Wishing everyone a happy holiday and fantastic 2009!
More news & photos coming soon!
Friday, December 12, 2008
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Here Comes the Sun (Not!)
The holiday season officially starts this week. I, like many others, love the hoildays. The music, lights, festivities, and good cheer truly lift my spirits.
However, there is one aspect of this time of year that really depresses me. From now until about end of January, on most days the only time I'll see the sun is during my 15 minute drive to work in the morning. Most of the problem is caused by the fact my office and my building does not have any windows. (Side note: At least my office is large and I have an office with a real door. I'd hate being in a cube). Unless I have meeting somewhere else at RTI, it's very easy to not see the sun all day. With sunset at 5 PMish, it is always dark on my drive home.
A few years ago when Shannon still worked, it used to be worse. At this time of year, I could go all week without seeing the sun! I suppose I should be thankful for the little sunlight I do see!
However, there is one aspect of this time of year that really depresses me. From now until about end of January, on most days the only time I'll see the sun is during my 15 minute drive to work in the morning. Most of the problem is caused by the fact my office and my building does not have any windows. (Side note: At least my office is large and I have an office with a real door. I'd hate being in a cube). Unless I have meeting somewhere else at RTI, it's very easy to not see the sun all day. With sunset at 5 PMish, it is always dark on my drive home.
A few years ago when Shannon still worked, it used to be worse. At this time of year, I could go all week without seeing the sun! I suppose I should be thankful for the little sunlight I do see!
Monday, November 24, 2008
November Photos
Some new photos are posted in the slideshow. This picture of Jacqueline is worthy of being posted here, though.
She is not super-baby though. Jon is holding her up. He craftily hid his arm behind the crib.
She is not super-baby though. Jon is holding her up. He craftily hid his arm behind the crib.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Epilogue
I survived my reunion. I think the verb "survived" is apt. It wasn't horrible but not extremely enjoyable either.
My two days in L.A. were enjoyable. I became convinced a family vacation to Disneyland & the beach will occur when J&S are older. The thought of taking them to Rat Beach and building sand castles makes me smile. My imagined looks on their faces as we walk down Disney Main Street makes me giddy with excitement. The ability to share something Shannon and I find special with J&S is a neat feeling.
From a practical point of view, my remembered familiarity with L.A. will make the vacation that much more enjoyable. I can find a clean, inexpensive hotel near the South Bay. I know where the beaches with free parking are located. I know how to drive to from South Bay to Disneyland and other attractions without getting lost. If I didn't, the entire vacation would be very stressful and/or expensive.
As for my last day on vacation, I spent Sunday in the Redondo Beach area. There was a reunion event at the high school, but the idea of hanging out someplace fun sounded more enjoyable. I found a coffee shop in the little commercial area off PV Boulevard (behind the Vons). It also happened to be next door to the Redondo Beach Brewing Company, the brewery I wanted to visit on Saturday. How lucky could I be? After getting jazzed on a couple cups of joe, I wandered next door to mix in some relaxants.
The coffee was fantastic! The beer was mixed.
The pale ale was like watery hops. I could imagine one brewer saying "we need to reduce cost....let's cut back on the barely." The second brewer responded "sounds great, but let's add some more hops to scald the customer's taste buds. they'll never know the difference." Well, starch & bitter flavors are tasted on differed parts of the tongue. You can tell the difference.
The porter was more enjoyable. It was served too cold, so I watched football while it warmed some. Nice malted chocolate undertones with clean sweetness. A touch thin in the middle, but porters are difficult to balance perfectly. Overall, a nice beer.
Eventually, I headed to Pasadena for the opening session of the conference I was attending.
My two days in L.A. were enjoyable. I became convinced a family vacation to Disneyland & the beach will occur when J&S are older. The thought of taking them to Rat Beach and building sand castles makes me smile. My imagined looks on their faces as we walk down Disney Main Street makes me giddy with excitement. The ability to share something Shannon and I find special with J&S is a neat feeling.
From a practical point of view, my remembered familiarity with L.A. will make the vacation that much more enjoyable. I can find a clean, inexpensive hotel near the South Bay. I know where the beaches with free parking are located. I know how to drive to from South Bay to Disneyland and other attractions without getting lost. If I didn't, the entire vacation would be very stressful and/or expensive.
As for my last day on vacation, I spent Sunday in the Redondo Beach area. There was a reunion event at the high school, but the idea of hanging out someplace fun sounded more enjoyable. I found a coffee shop in the little commercial area off PV Boulevard (behind the Vons). It also happened to be next door to the Redondo Beach Brewing Company, the brewery I wanted to visit on Saturday. How lucky could I be? After getting jazzed on a couple cups of joe, I wandered next door to mix in some relaxants.
The coffee was fantastic! The beer was mixed.
The pale ale was like watery hops. I could imagine one brewer saying "we need to reduce cost....let's cut back on the barely." The second brewer responded "sounds great, but let's add some more hops to scald the customer's taste buds. they'll never know the difference." Well, starch & bitter flavors are tasted on differed parts of the tongue. You can tell the difference.
The porter was more enjoyable. It was served too cold, so I watched football while it warmed some. Nice malted chocolate undertones with clean sweetness. A touch thin in the middle, but porters are difficult to balance perfectly. Overall, a nice beer.
Eventually, I headed to Pasadena for the opening session of the conference I was attending.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Baby Update
Jacqueline and Sophie turn 5 months next week. My, they grow fast. I traveled 3 of 4 weeks in October and every time I returned home I could tell they had changed.
After 5 months, it still continues to amaze me how different they are.
Jacqueline has continued to be the "wild" one. She flirts, giggles, explores, touches, grabs, feels, etc. She is an expert at grabbing toys, shaking them, then tossing them aside. She also is the more giggly of the two. Still, though, most activities are conducted on her back. She can roll onto her side, but she doesn't want to very often. She still hates "tummy time" too. I think she doesn't like to be positioned such that she can't see everything around her. We've also started calling her "Plank." Her favorite position is to be perfectly straight and stiff as a board. I hope this doesn't portend her being as unlimber as her Dad. Conversely, she has discovered her feet and toes; so she can bend and flex when she wants. Overall, we're still convinced Jacqueline will be walking first. Jacqueline's hair also is growing fast. She is now a fuzz head, instead of a cue ball.
Sophie's "serious" nature has developed into a cautious personality. She doesn't like loud noises or toys in her face. All her movements are very deliberate. You can see her thinking...."I am going to reach out and grab the toy and I will not miss!" Her deliberate nature also shows in her gross motor skills. She mastered rolling over a long time ago. More recently, she learned to roll onto her stomach, pause, then push herself up on her elbows. Now, she does one smooth, continuous roll, push, & prop. Once she's up, she is starting to figure out that the next step is to get her knees under herself so she can roll from her belly to her back. Although Sophie is not as giggly, she is more talkative. Her array of vowel sounds is impressive. She loves to talk while rolling around on the floor....almost like she is talking her way through the process. She'll definitely will be talking first.
In case you wonder, Mom and Dad are doing great too. We are sleeping great, but we're still both pretty tired all the time. It shows because we're both very forgetful. Mom sometimes is VERY glad to see Dad come home from work. Dad wishes he could spend more time with everyone and he tries to maximize his free time on the weekends. Mom copes with Dad's business trips well. She said up to 3 days is manageable by herself. Dad isn't too keen on traveling....I do love spending time with everyone. After my trip to New Orleans this week, I should not be traveling until the Holidays. YEAH!
After 5 months, it still continues to amaze me how different they are.
Jacqueline has continued to be the "wild" one. She flirts, giggles, explores, touches, grabs, feels, etc. She is an expert at grabbing toys, shaking them, then tossing them aside. She also is the more giggly of the two. Still, though, most activities are conducted on her back. She can roll onto her side, but she doesn't want to very often. She still hates "tummy time" too. I think she doesn't like to be positioned such that she can't see everything around her. We've also started calling her "Plank." Her favorite position is to be perfectly straight and stiff as a board. I hope this doesn't portend her being as unlimber as her Dad. Conversely, she has discovered her feet and toes; so she can bend and flex when she wants. Overall, we're still convinced Jacqueline will be walking first. Jacqueline's hair also is growing fast. She is now a fuzz head, instead of a cue ball.
Sophie's "serious" nature has developed into a cautious personality. She doesn't like loud noises or toys in her face. All her movements are very deliberate. You can see her thinking...."I am going to reach out and grab the toy and I will not miss!" Her deliberate nature also shows in her gross motor skills. She mastered rolling over a long time ago. More recently, she learned to roll onto her stomach, pause, then push herself up on her elbows. Now, she does one smooth, continuous roll, push, & prop. Once she's up, she is starting to figure out that the next step is to get her knees under herself so she can roll from her belly to her back. Although Sophie is not as giggly, she is more talkative. Her array of vowel sounds is impressive. She loves to talk while rolling around on the floor....almost like she is talking her way through the process. She'll definitely will be talking first.
In case you wonder, Mom and Dad are doing great too. We are sleeping great, but we're still both pretty tired all the time. It shows because we're both very forgetful. Mom sometimes is VERY glad to see Dad come home from work. Dad wishes he could spend more time with everyone and he tries to maximize his free time on the weekends. Mom copes with Dad's business trips well. She said up to 3 days is manageable by herself. Dad isn't too keen on traveling....I do love spending time with everyone. After my trip to New Orleans this week, I should not be traveling until the Holidays. YEAH!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Chapter 3: Reunion
After getting lost in downtown Long Beach, I arrived at my high school’s 20th reunion at 7 PM. A woman I did not recognize immediately greeted me, by name. After an awkward second, she introduced herself like I should have recognized her and it hadn’t been 20 years since we’d last seen each other. Another fellow came right up and greeted me by name too. Okay….0 for 2 so far. Will it be a long night?
The first person I recognized was Matt Ralph. We were basketball teammates. We also spent a year at UW together, although he was earning his MA in History while I studied Engineering. He had not changed much. The basketball team had a good showing. Besides Matt, Greg Jones, Ian Filep, John Mika, and Scott Ruston attended. Only Scott brought his spouse. I had enjoyable conversations with John and Scott. John lives in Orange County with his family and owns an insurnace business. Scott is doing his own, free-spirited thing (after 10 years as a Navy pilot).
Most attendees still live on the west coast. A surprising number live in the San Francisco area. I thought I would win “furthest travel”, but someone flew in from Hawaii. They did all the typical awards…..most kids, quickest divorce, longest marriage, etc. I should have won longest marriage but lost to someone more popular. Surprised?
The cerebral nerds congregated for a while too. Funny how those of us with doctorates found each other. I ate dinner (terrible food) with Greg Weiss and his wife. Inquisitive minds always make for good conversations. The other doctorate was Mark Lakata. Mark informed me the matron of honor at his sister’s wedding last year was my high school girlfriend, Carrie. He said she did not look good and her husband was a dud. I didn't know how to respond to that comment.
The person I talked with the most was Mike Riegelhuth. He lived two doors down Via Estudillo from us. His parents still live in the same house. We ran with different crowds in high school so I did not know him well. We talked a lot though. He is a very good natured, easygoing guy. He and his family live in Maryland. Our conversation was the highlight of the night for me.
I did have some other interesting exchanges though. Mitch Booz came right up and asked me how my great Uncle was. I must have looked perplexed because he asked if John Wooden was family. Of course he is…..distantly. I also haven’t seen or talked with him in more than 20 years. Another neighbor, Alice, and I talked about our old homes. When I asked why she never had neighbors over to swim in her pool, she told me that her father was very possessive and did not want her associating with boys. Her four older brothers acted the same way. She said she never dated until college. Finally, I had a nice conversation with Shelly Wallace. She now lives in Austin, TX with her family. She admitted always having a “crush” on me, but never showed any interest because I was not part of the “cool” crowd. Funny, I always had a crush on her too but didn’t bother because of the cliques.
There were a few people that genuinely seemed pleased to see me. James Nelligan and Whitney Allen stood out. We liked each other well enough in high school. Whitney admitted surprise that I had not come to the earlier reunions. We did not talk long though because, as popular classmates, they had many folks to see.
Probably the most interesting part of the night was seeing who did not attend. I’ll admit everyone that attended looked good, seemed successful, and appeared happy. That led to a conversation with John Mika about those that did not attend. We decided they must have crappy lives. Would you attend your 20th if your answers to the typical questions were “divorced twice, several illegitimate kids, unemployed, living with my parents.”? I did hear a few instances of “did you know ‘so and so’ is gay?” In retrospect, the fact one guy is gay does not surprise me. He loved to wear gold necklaces and other bling in high school.
In the end though, most conversations were as long as “married, 2 kids, 2 cats, dog, live in NC”; the recitation that I expected. As the night progressed, people divided into the cliques and reminisced and/or caught up since the last reunion. I did not mind feeling like an outsider. I was one in high school and I haven’t made any attempts to contact anyone from high school since graduation. The reunion ended at midnight, but people were planning to continue at a local bar. Four hours was enough for me though. I left around 11 PM so I could find some decent dinner at a Carl’s Jr.
The first person I recognized was Matt Ralph. We were basketball teammates. We also spent a year at UW together, although he was earning his MA in History while I studied Engineering. He had not changed much. The basketball team had a good showing. Besides Matt, Greg Jones, Ian Filep, John Mika, and Scott Ruston attended. Only Scott brought his spouse. I had enjoyable conversations with John and Scott. John lives in Orange County with his family and owns an insurnace business. Scott is doing his own, free-spirited thing (after 10 years as a Navy pilot).
Most attendees still live on the west coast. A surprising number live in the San Francisco area. I thought I would win “furthest travel”, but someone flew in from Hawaii. They did all the typical awards…..most kids, quickest divorce, longest marriage, etc. I should have won longest marriage but lost to someone more popular. Surprised?
The cerebral nerds congregated for a while too. Funny how those of us with doctorates found each other. I ate dinner (terrible food) with Greg Weiss and his wife. Inquisitive minds always make for good conversations. The other doctorate was Mark Lakata. Mark informed me the matron of honor at his sister’s wedding last year was my high school girlfriend, Carrie. He said she did not look good and her husband was a dud. I didn't know how to respond to that comment.
The person I talked with the most was Mike Riegelhuth. He lived two doors down Via Estudillo from us. His parents still live in the same house. We ran with different crowds in high school so I did not know him well. We talked a lot though. He is a very good natured, easygoing guy. He and his family live in Maryland. Our conversation was the highlight of the night for me.
I did have some other interesting exchanges though. Mitch Booz came right up and asked me how my great Uncle was. I must have looked perplexed because he asked if John Wooden was family. Of course he is…..distantly. I also haven’t seen or talked with him in more than 20 years. Another neighbor, Alice, and I talked about our old homes. When I asked why she never had neighbors over to swim in her pool, she told me that her father was very possessive and did not want her associating with boys. Her four older brothers acted the same way. She said she never dated until college. Finally, I had a nice conversation with Shelly Wallace. She now lives in Austin, TX with her family. She admitted always having a “crush” on me, but never showed any interest because I was not part of the “cool” crowd. Funny, I always had a crush on her too but didn’t bother because of the cliques.
There were a few people that genuinely seemed pleased to see me. James Nelligan and Whitney Allen stood out. We liked each other well enough in high school. Whitney admitted surprise that I had not come to the earlier reunions. We did not talk long though because, as popular classmates, they had many folks to see.
Probably the most interesting part of the night was seeing who did not attend. I’ll admit everyone that attended looked good, seemed successful, and appeared happy. That led to a conversation with John Mika about those that did not attend. We decided they must have crappy lives. Would you attend your 20th if your answers to the typical questions were “divorced twice, several illegitimate kids, unemployed, living with my parents.”? I did hear a few instances of “did you know ‘so and so’ is gay?” In retrospect, the fact one guy is gay does not surprise me. He loved to wear gold necklaces and other bling in high school.
In the end though, most conversations were as long as “married, 2 kids, 2 cats, dog, live in NC”; the recitation that I expected. As the night progressed, people divided into the cliques and reminisced and/or caught up since the last reunion. I did not mind feeling like an outsider. I was one in high school and I haven’t made any attempts to contact anyone from high school since graduation. The reunion ended at midnight, but people were planning to continue at a local bar. Four hours was enough for me though. I left around 11 PM so I could find some decent dinner at a Carl’s Jr.
Friday, October 31, 2008
New Slideshow of the Girls
Jon put up new pictures of the girls. There is a ghost in some of them; I think that we had a smudge on the lens. Oops! More later...
Friday, October 17, 2008
Chapter 2: Tour
Woo Hoo! It's a beautiful day in Southern California. No clouds or fog. Temperature is in the low 70's. I couldn't have picked a better day to visit.
I exit the rental car lot and find my way to Sepulveda and start heading south. I immediately recognize several landmarks from my past. Restaurants, strip malls, and hotels are the common sites I remember. However, in other instances what used to be no longer exists. For whatever reason, I remember the Godfather Pizza/Chuck E. Cheese (building had 2 lives) on Sepulveda. That entire building is gone and replaced with a Whole Foods. I notice many other similar instances, mainly because of the "newness" of the buildings.
Surprisingly, traffic is not as bad as I remember. I also remember the "Esplanade" runs right along the beach. I decide that would be a nice drive. Unfortunately, I have difficulty finding it. I forgot it starts south of Redondo Beach Pier. I do find it though and start wishing I had a convertible.
I roll down all the windows and I am immediately hit by the smell of the Pacific Ocean. I could smell that salt in the air (very nice) along with the rotting seaweed (not so nice). I'm cruising along and notice many parents enjoying the morning with their kids; walking or biking along the boardwalk is a popular activity. The sight reminds me how much I miss S, J, & S.
The Esplanade is not a continuous road, so by sheer luck I make it to PV Boulevard. I suddenly remember that I don't have a camera. I also have to pee. I'm also getting hungry. I remember a Vons should be around here somewhere. The Vons is right where I remembered, so I quickly relieve myself and purchase a camera and some lunch.
I finally make it to the Malaga Cove parking lot and start the trek down to Rat Beach. My first stop is the gazebo overlooking the beach, PVBRC pool (a private club), and cliffs. Not too exciting, although I notice a sign that says "No Weddings Allowed per PVE ordinance etc." I chuckle and head for the path to the beach. Funny how youth distorts your impressions. To get to Rat Beach, you have to walk down a steep, paved path then walk along an easy path at the base of the cliff before you get to the beach itself. I remember the path up/down the hill as being very, very long. This time, it wasn't quite as long as I remembered.
I hit the beach and revulsion hits my senses. I had forgotten how west coast sand is more like soil & brown than the fine, white sand at the NC beaches. It took a while to re-adjust to the clay-like, sticky feeling.
Once on the beach, I'm having a great time. I immediately walk into the water. Brrrr! The Pacific isn't nice and warm like the Atlantic either. I stroll along in the water, though, until my feet are numb. Pelicans are dive bombing for food, a few surfers are out, and some families are enjoying a nice day at the beach. I plop down in the sand and watch some pathetic surfers and call Shannon. She's out at the Philly Pops with her Dad, but I talk with Wanda for a few minutes. Otherwise, I just relax and soak up the sun and waves. I walk down to Torrance Beach, chat with a lifeguard for a few (surf was awesome the day before, he said), then head back.
I return to the Malaga Cove parking lot and notice.....1) a wedding has just started in the gazebo and 2) I stepped in tar while on the beach. You can't go to the beach in LA without stepping in tar! It must have been a speed wedding, because they finish the ceremony and snap some photos before I finish cleaning my feet.
It's now time to head for the old homestead. I cruise along Paseo Del Mar (the scenic route) as far as I can. Along the way, I feel my architectural preservationist starting to grumble. I make it to Via Estudillo, park, and begin a walking tour. So here I am being a typical tourist. Our old house looks the same as the last photo I saw. A Volvo SUV is parked at the curb and shoes are piled by the front door. I contemplate knocking on the door, but chickened out (Shannon later chastised me). Instead, I walk out to the open field that has now become a park dedicated to Grandpa Proudfoot. It's beautifully landscaped and quite pleasant. Besides walking around Rico Place and Espinoza Circle, I didn't do much else in the 'hood. I didn't see anyone either. I did notice the Kowal's house looked oddly vacant even though there was a car in the driveway. I peeked in the windows and saw no furniture in the entire house. I wonder if the estate is still in probate? If so, is someone just living in the basement apartment as a caretaker? I take several photographs then head to PVHS.
Not much happening at PVHS. For being such a rich neighborhood, PVHS is really showing its age. All the buildings need painted, the original lockers are still in use, and all the portable classrooms from the 80's are still there. They can, however, spend a ton of money building an entirely new swimming pool. Are their priorities backwards? I find my old locker (#378) and use my old "Fonz" trick to get it open. Hit the door in the right spot and the door pops right open. I never did know the combination for that locker. Nice to see the current tenant is keeping it clean and neat....must be a girl. I try a similar "Fonz" trick on a door leading to the gym. Unfortunately, all the doors are new and I can't get inside. I really would have like to see the gym. I settle for strolling around the baseball field. While walking around PVHS, I realize what was bugging me about the houses. The architecture of the older houses in PVE is really quite stunning. I noticed numerous details, ones I never noticed before, that really give the houses character. The problem is that about 1 out of 4 houses is obviously new construction. Without question, everyone new house looks like a Mexican Villa. Stone washed adobe looking exterior, lots of arches, and every window has a little veranda. At least the houses weren't over-size for the lot. Several were erected in place of cute Cape Cods that were there in the 80's.
It's getting close to 3 PM. My trip down memory lane is quickly ending. It's time to head for the hotel to rest and get cleaned up. I decided to driver over the hill to get onto Hawthorne. On the drive, I notice the distinct difference in houses in Rancho Palos Verdes compared to PVE. RPV is looking rough...almost shoddy. I guess PVE is the place to live on the "hill".
The drive to the hotel in Carson (near the Home Depot Center) is uneventful, although traffic how I remember. Very bad. It doesn't help none of the stoplights are synchronized. Some things never change.
Random facts.
1. The parking lot at Torrance Beach now costs $5 per hour, $15 per day. It used to be free. I guess LA County is desperate for cash.
2. The statue of Poseidon(?) at Malaga Plaza has been replaced. Last time I saw it, his head and an arm were gone. Alas, the new one does not have water coming from his penis. Doc will be disappointed. I remember he always found that funny.
3. The houses along the cliffs at Rat Beach have built paths down the cliff from the house to some very nice patios/terraces at beach level. These folks dropped some serious cash. One was fully landscaped, had a little cabana, outdoor grill, seating for 20, and a hot tub.
4. Lunada Bay Hardware is still in business. The Lunada Bay Grocery is now an "organic market & bakery."
5. McCain-Palin signs were everywhere in PV. Surprised? I saw one Obama-Biden sign. It was very small and in the window. Might they have been embarrassed?
I exit the rental car lot and find my way to Sepulveda and start heading south. I immediately recognize several landmarks from my past. Restaurants, strip malls, and hotels are the common sites I remember. However, in other instances what used to be no longer exists. For whatever reason, I remember the Godfather Pizza/Chuck E. Cheese (building had 2 lives) on Sepulveda. That entire building is gone and replaced with a Whole Foods. I notice many other similar instances, mainly because of the "newness" of the buildings.
Surprisingly, traffic is not as bad as I remember. I also remember the "Esplanade" runs right along the beach. I decide that would be a nice drive. Unfortunately, I have difficulty finding it. I forgot it starts south of Redondo Beach Pier. I do find it though and start wishing I had a convertible.
I roll down all the windows and I am immediately hit by the smell of the Pacific Ocean. I could smell that salt in the air (very nice) along with the rotting seaweed (not so nice). I'm cruising along and notice many parents enjoying the morning with their kids; walking or biking along the boardwalk is a popular activity. The sight reminds me how much I miss S, J, & S.
The Esplanade is not a continuous road, so by sheer luck I make it to PV Boulevard. I suddenly remember that I don't have a camera. I also have to pee. I'm also getting hungry. I remember a Vons should be around here somewhere. The Vons is right where I remembered, so I quickly relieve myself and purchase a camera and some lunch.
I finally make it to the Malaga Cove parking lot and start the trek down to Rat Beach. My first stop is the gazebo overlooking the beach, PVBRC pool (a private club), and cliffs. Not too exciting, although I notice a sign that says "No Weddings Allowed per PVE ordinance etc." I chuckle and head for the path to the beach. Funny how youth distorts your impressions. To get to Rat Beach, you have to walk down a steep, paved path then walk along an easy path at the base of the cliff before you get to the beach itself. I remember the path up/down the hill as being very, very long. This time, it wasn't quite as long as I remembered.
I hit the beach and revulsion hits my senses. I had forgotten how west coast sand is more like soil & brown than the fine, white sand at the NC beaches. It took a while to re-adjust to the clay-like, sticky feeling.
Once on the beach, I'm having a great time. I immediately walk into the water. Brrrr! The Pacific isn't nice and warm like the Atlantic either. I stroll along in the water, though, until my feet are numb. Pelicans are dive bombing for food, a few surfers are out, and some families are enjoying a nice day at the beach. I plop down in the sand and watch some pathetic surfers and call Shannon. She's out at the Philly Pops with her Dad, but I talk with Wanda for a few minutes. Otherwise, I just relax and soak up the sun and waves. I walk down to Torrance Beach, chat with a lifeguard for a few (surf was awesome the day before, he said), then head back.
I return to the Malaga Cove parking lot and notice.....1) a wedding has just started in the gazebo and 2) I stepped in tar while on the beach. You can't go to the beach in LA without stepping in tar! It must have been a speed wedding, because they finish the ceremony and snap some photos before I finish cleaning my feet.
It's now time to head for the old homestead. I cruise along Paseo Del Mar (the scenic route) as far as I can. Along the way, I feel my architectural preservationist starting to grumble. I make it to Via Estudillo, park, and begin a walking tour. So here I am being a typical tourist. Our old house looks the same as the last photo I saw. A Volvo SUV is parked at the curb and shoes are piled by the front door. I contemplate knocking on the door, but chickened out (Shannon later chastised me). Instead, I walk out to the open field that has now become a park dedicated to Grandpa Proudfoot. It's beautifully landscaped and quite pleasant. Besides walking around Rico Place and Espinoza Circle, I didn't do much else in the 'hood. I didn't see anyone either. I did notice the Kowal's house looked oddly vacant even though there was a car in the driveway. I peeked in the windows and saw no furniture in the entire house. I wonder if the estate is still in probate? If so, is someone just living in the basement apartment as a caretaker? I take several photographs then head to PVHS.
Not much happening at PVHS. For being such a rich neighborhood, PVHS is really showing its age. All the buildings need painted, the original lockers are still in use, and all the portable classrooms from the 80's are still there. They can, however, spend a ton of money building an entirely new swimming pool. Are their priorities backwards? I find my old locker (#378) and use my old "Fonz" trick to get it open. Hit the door in the right spot and the door pops right open. I never did know the combination for that locker. Nice to see the current tenant is keeping it clean and neat....must be a girl. I try a similar "Fonz" trick on a door leading to the gym. Unfortunately, all the doors are new and I can't get inside. I really would have like to see the gym. I settle for strolling around the baseball field. While walking around PVHS, I realize what was bugging me about the houses. The architecture of the older houses in PVE is really quite stunning. I noticed numerous details, ones I never noticed before, that really give the houses character. The problem is that about 1 out of 4 houses is obviously new construction. Without question, everyone new house looks like a Mexican Villa. Stone washed adobe looking exterior, lots of arches, and every window has a little veranda. At least the houses weren't over-size for the lot. Several were erected in place of cute Cape Cods that were there in the 80's.
It's getting close to 3 PM. My trip down memory lane is quickly ending. It's time to head for the hotel to rest and get cleaned up. I decided to driver over the hill to get onto Hawthorne. On the drive, I notice the distinct difference in houses in Rancho Palos Verdes compared to PVE. RPV is looking rough...almost shoddy. I guess PVE is the place to live on the "hill".
The drive to the hotel in Carson (near the Home Depot Center) is uneventful, although traffic how I remember. Very bad. It doesn't help none of the stoplights are synchronized. Some things never change.
Random facts.
1. The parking lot at Torrance Beach now costs $5 per hour, $15 per day. It used to be free. I guess LA County is desperate for cash.
2. The statue of Poseidon(?) at Malaga Plaza has been replaced. Last time I saw it, his head and an arm were gone. Alas, the new one does not have water coming from his penis. Doc will be disappointed. I remember he always found that funny.
3. The houses along the cliffs at Rat Beach have built paths down the cliff from the house to some very nice patios/terraces at beach level. These folks dropped some serious cash. One was fully landscaped, had a little cabana, outdoor grill, seating for 20, and a hot tub.
4. Lunada Bay Hardware is still in business. The Lunada Bay Grocery is now an "organic market & bakery."
5. McCain-Palin signs were everywhere in PV. Surprised? I saw one Obama-Biden sign. It was very small and in the window. Might they have been embarrassed?
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Chapter 1: Travel
I am traveling to Los Angeles today. Earlier in the week I was ambivalent about returning to Los Angeles and Palos Verdes, where I grew up. In 20 years, I haven't had the desire to see my classmates or return to the area. This morning, however, I am strangely excited.
At first, I am only eager to walk along Rat Beach and watch the surfers. The beach and surfing were the only part of life in Palos Verdes I truly enjoyed. I remember, also, that the Redondo Beach Brewing Company is somewhere nearby. I love beer. I should check it out.
The planes are completely full. It is impossible to sleep even though I am exhausted. I work until my laptop battery is dead. Over an hour remains until we land in Los Angeles. So I reflect about my high school days and the reunion later that night. There are a few people I would not mind seeing. A few classmates perform interesting research that I have read about in various technical magazines. I expect a small group of attendees. Maybe with a small group conversations will be intimate and meaningful. I won't enjoy several hours of "living in NC, wife, 2 kids, dog, 2 cats, work in research." Too superficial. My biggest worry is that the reunion will be solely attended by the clics that have remained in contact with each other over the years. I'd definitely be an outsider in that situation. If that happens, maybe I could hang out with some spouses?
What else should I do until the reunion? Will I have time to visit the old house? What about the high school? Those places will be my next stops after visiting Rat Beach. I need to nap before the reunion so hitting the brew pub becomes optional.
We are flying over the LA basin. I am disappointed I don't have a window seat. I wish I could see Disneyland, the freeways, and PV as the plane lands. Maybe I will change my seat for the flight home.
I am waiting for my luggage. I'm really excited to hit the beach. Just my luck that my bag is one of the last ones. Thank goodness getting the rental car was quick and easy.
At first, I am only eager to walk along Rat Beach and watch the surfers. The beach and surfing were the only part of life in Palos Verdes I truly enjoyed. I remember, also, that the Redondo Beach Brewing Company is somewhere nearby. I love beer. I should check it out.
The planes are completely full. It is impossible to sleep even though I am exhausted. I work until my laptop battery is dead. Over an hour remains until we land in Los Angeles. So I reflect about my high school days and the reunion later that night. There are a few people I would not mind seeing. A few classmates perform interesting research that I have read about in various technical magazines. I expect a small group of attendees. Maybe with a small group conversations will be intimate and meaningful. I won't enjoy several hours of "living in NC, wife, 2 kids, dog, 2 cats, work in research." Too superficial. My biggest worry is that the reunion will be solely attended by the clics that have remained in contact with each other over the years. I'd definitely be an outsider in that situation. If that happens, maybe I could hang out with some spouses?
What else should I do until the reunion? Will I have time to visit the old house? What about the high school? Those places will be my next stops after visiting Rat Beach. I need to nap before the reunion so hitting the brew pub becomes optional.
We are flying over the LA basin. I am disappointed I don't have a window seat. I wish I could see Disneyland, the freeways, and PV as the plane lands. Maybe I will change my seat for the flight home.
I am waiting for my luggage. I'm really excited to hit the beach. Just my luck that my bag is one of the last ones. Thank goodness getting the rental car was quick and easy.
Prologue
It's Wednesday night. I am at home. Shannon and Tara just started the drive to Pennsylvania with the three babies. It's oddly quiet in the house.
I have never enjoyed being alone for extended periods, especially at home. There is a differnce with business travel I can't explain. The Sig Tau creed begins with the line "Believing that all men are social creatures..." I believe that is true. When I was living at the Sig Tau house, the coveted room was the single in the basement of the annex. By having the highest GPA, I earned the right to that room my last semester. I eagerly moved, but after a couple days I never spent any time there except to sleep. The room was too quiet and isolated. In short, I was lonely.
After everyone departed, I distracted myself by watching some TV and then working on the computer for a few hours.
Thursday I worked late and then took Raven with me to run some errands. Simple enough. I get home around 9 PM and I fall into bed exhausted. Raven is going to the kennel Friday. I love Raz and Tweedle, but they don't fufill the comforting presence I need. I need a plan for Friday night.
Raven was not very happy to be kenneled. I'm sure she'll be fine, but she did give me that "look." The "Hey, I go everywhere with the family; what am I doing here?" 'look'. I can sympathize, Raven. I don't like being apart from my family either.
After talking with our neighbor Ms. Shirley for a few minutes, I go inside to feed the cats and prepare for my trip to Los Angeles. This weekend is my 20th reunion for the Palos Verdes High class of 1988. I'm staying in California for the remainder of the week to attend a conference. Once finished packing, it takes less than 5 minutes for me to decide I need to be with people. I want to watch the Hurricanes season opener, so I head over to Federals. It's not until after I order a beer (Stone Brewery Porter...not as good as their Arrogant Bastard) that I realize the bar is full of Red Sox fans watching the game against the Rays. No hope of watching the hockey game here. To pass time until my glass is empty, I call Mom & Dad. While on the phone, Amy calls. Isn't it funny how those coincidences occur? I return Amy's call. Amy and Mark are my salvation for the evening. They invite me over for soup and drinks. I happily accept (I can read about the hockey game). My final night alone at home will be manageable.
I have never enjoyed being alone for extended periods, especially at home. There is a differnce with business travel I can't explain. The Sig Tau creed begins with the line "Believing that all men are social creatures..." I believe that is true. When I was living at the Sig Tau house, the coveted room was the single in the basement of the annex. By having the highest GPA, I earned the right to that room my last semester. I eagerly moved, but after a couple days I never spent any time there except to sleep. The room was too quiet and isolated. In short, I was lonely.
After everyone departed, I distracted myself by watching some TV and then working on the computer for a few hours.
Thursday I worked late and then took Raven with me to run some errands. Simple enough. I get home around 9 PM and I fall into bed exhausted. Raven is going to the kennel Friday. I love Raz and Tweedle, but they don't fufill the comforting presence I need. I need a plan for Friday night.
Raven was not very happy to be kenneled. I'm sure she'll be fine, but she did give me that "look." The "Hey, I go everywhere with the family; what am I doing here?" 'look'. I can sympathize, Raven. I don't like being apart from my family either.
After talking with our neighbor Ms. Shirley for a few minutes, I go inside to feed the cats and prepare for my trip to Los Angeles. This weekend is my 20th reunion for the Palos Verdes High class of 1988. I'm staying in California for the remainder of the week to attend a conference. Once finished packing, it takes less than 5 minutes for me to decide I need to be with people. I want to watch the Hurricanes season opener, so I head over to Federals. It's not until after I order a beer (Stone Brewery Porter...not as good as their Arrogant Bastard) that I realize the bar is full of Red Sox fans watching the game against the Rays. No hope of watching the hockey game here. To pass time until my glass is empty, I call Mom & Dad. While on the phone, Amy calls. Isn't it funny how those coincidences occur? I return Amy's call. Amy and Mark are my salvation for the evening. They invite me over for soup and drinks. I happily accept (I can read about the hockey game). My final night alone at home will be manageable.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Tonight!!!
Something a friend of mine posted on a blog recently reminded me of a conversation I had with my mom during this last visit. Specifically, we were wondering why Hillary Clinton is often referred to as a "b*tch" while Sarah Palin is simply referred to as "feisty." To me, they are both motivated people who know what they want and go after it. So, why all of this negativity about Hillary while people treat Palin with kid gloves. Is it because Palin is prettier (she is a beauty queen, after all), not as smart (how many colleges did she attend before getting a degree), was able to have more children including a developmentally disabled one and one that got herself knocked up out of wedlock (if that doesn't elicit sympathy, I don't know what does), etc.? I don't know, but I find the love affair that some have with Palin troubling. Maybe especially because Palin scares me to death despite her cutsie hockey mom claims. I am thankful that some, including those in her own party, are starting to get nervous as well. Political analysis has shown that elections are rarely decided by the vice presidential picks...I wonder if this time will be different. Tonight's debate should be very, very interesting...maybe even amusing considering that Palin avoids answering questions and fakes answers to questions she doesn't know and Biden's potential to "gaffe" on occasion. I know that I will be watching!!!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Jon's Thoughts on the Causes of the Financial Crisis
Everyone, or just about everyone, has heard about the credit crunch and potential major problem with the global economy. If you've listened to or read the news this week, the rejection of the first bailout by the House was partly blamed on John and Jane Q. Public's failure to understand that the unresolved credit crunch can affect individual families and "Main Street" as well as bankers and "Wall Street."
This evening while driving to dinner (side bar: supposedly the best pizza in Birmingham...okay but not great. Sauce tasted like sugar water. Toppings and whole wheat crust were excellent.), NPR was trying to put a "Mom and Pop" flavor on the financial crisis by interviewing small business owners. These owners cannot get $20,000 to $50,000 lines of credit from any bank to cover gaps created by the lag between accounts receivable and payable. As a result, the owners are 1) laying off employees or 2) not hiring new employees even though they want to.
This story was the latest one I've heard or read in the last week trying to convince the public of the need for a bailout.
I, for one, still am not convinced of the need for the bailout. I have been following the story, mainly through Baron's but also from radio and newspaper reports. I understand banks may have leveraged themselves $30 to $1 (i.e., the bank may actually have only $1, but they owe $30). But if you look back at oil and commodities prices over the last 12 to 18 months, you can see a picture as to why this occurred and why inflation is around 5%.
The simple answer is: GREED!. Artificially cheap credit drove a housing bubble that raised home prices and fueled NYSE growth. The Fed raised interest rates a few years ago to slow the ecomony to keep inflation low. ARMs readjusted at a higher rate, and a few mortgage defaults started.
At the time, I don't think anyone but the bankers knew their dollars were highly leveraged and they couldn't pay off debts. However instead of coming clean then, they looked for another investment to 1) cover their debts and 2) keep the financial growth rate elevated. Whether the banks acted jointly (criminal charges should be filed if this is proven) or one started and the others quickly deciphered their plan (most likely, IMHO), banks are guilty of the spike in oil and commodity (corn, wheat, soybean, metals, etc) prices.
Whenever, the media hyperbolized the effect of "insert natural disaster du jour or War on Terror development here" on oil or commodity prices (as appropriate), bankers artificially drove up the price of that commodity as their excuse to make more profits. The excessive volatility we have seen is the effect of bankers selling large positions in these markets to obtain cash to pay off short term debt, resulting from the housing mess, that had come due. Gullible John and Jane Q. Public accepted these price increases and volatility as 1) the new economy, 2) China's and India's fault, 3) no one knew what was happening, or 4) any other somewhat rational reason you can imagine.
Eventually, the inflation caused by the higher oil and commodities slowed the economy because John and Jane finally decreased their driving and stopped spending. "Uh Oh" say the bankers (and nephew Kendal, but he'll be a scientist or engineer when he grows up....not a banker) as oil and commodity prices fall dramatically because oil stockpiles are at record levels and the 2008 corn/wheat/soybean crop will be excellent.
With oil back at $100 per barrell (vs. $148) and corn at $4.80 per bushel (vs. $8), these bubbles have popped and bankers no longer have a mechanism to pay off their short-term debt. Hence, major defaults, bankrupt banks, and the "need" for a bailout. Note, the bankers could "short-sell" stocks, but the SEC banned short-selling recently.
So, what does bankers greed and the bailout have to do with John and Jane Q. Public's inability to get credit? In my opinion, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.
Imagine the bailout does not occur and the economy returns to where it was in 2000 (as some experts predict). Yes, many companies will go bankrupt. Banks will not have the cash reserved to pay off their highly leveraged debt. Companies with receivables from the banks will go bankrupt because they will not get paid. I favor this type of free market cleansing of old ideas and mistakes (call it Darwinism). However, will all credit vanish? No! Because back in 2000 we easily obtained a mortgage at an obscenely low fixed rate and were able to get a loan to buy a car.
If credit and loans were easy to obtain in 2000, banks should not punish John and Jane Q. Public now by withholding credit in an effort to save themselves. If anything, banks should be giving these loans. How else do they make money than through interest on loans (okay, annoying service charges and fees don't count). Or the Feds can give the bailout money to small businesses. $700 billion dollars would give 1 million small businesses a $100,000 loan to cover expenses. Some politicians constantly preach that small businesses are the U.S. economy. Besides, the $50,000 some businesses need probably is a small fraction of the annual bonus some of these bankers received while creating this mess.
The only possible reason for the bailout is that sovereign nations (China, Thailand, etc.) will be upset because they purchased the CDOs from the banks thinking they were safe investments. That would be bad because these countries also finance our huge budget deficitis. We don't want to make them mad and they'd withhold their money. Then we'd really be in a serious mess. Who would bailout the U.S.?
This evening while driving to dinner (side bar: supposedly the best pizza in Birmingham...okay but not great. Sauce tasted like sugar water. Toppings and whole wheat crust were excellent.), NPR was trying to put a "Mom and Pop" flavor on the financial crisis by interviewing small business owners. These owners cannot get $20,000 to $50,000 lines of credit from any bank to cover gaps created by the lag between accounts receivable and payable. As a result, the owners are 1) laying off employees or 2) not hiring new employees even though they want to.
This story was the latest one I've heard or read in the last week trying to convince the public of the need for a bailout.
I, for one, still am not convinced of the need for the bailout. I have been following the story, mainly through Baron's but also from radio and newspaper reports. I understand banks may have leveraged themselves $30 to $1 (i.e., the bank may actually have only $1, but they owe $30). But if you look back at oil and commodities prices over the last 12 to 18 months, you can see a picture as to why this occurred and why inflation is around 5%.
The simple answer is: GREED!. Artificially cheap credit drove a housing bubble that raised home prices and fueled NYSE growth. The Fed raised interest rates a few years ago to slow the ecomony to keep inflation low. ARMs readjusted at a higher rate, and a few mortgage defaults started.
At the time, I don't think anyone but the bankers knew their dollars were highly leveraged and they couldn't pay off debts. However instead of coming clean then, they looked for another investment to 1) cover their debts and 2) keep the financial growth rate elevated. Whether the banks acted jointly (criminal charges should be filed if this is proven) or one started and the others quickly deciphered their plan (most likely, IMHO), banks are guilty of the spike in oil and commodity (corn, wheat, soybean, metals, etc) prices.
Whenever, the media hyperbolized the effect of "insert natural disaster du jour or War on Terror development here" on oil or commodity prices (as appropriate), bankers artificially drove up the price of that commodity as their excuse to make more profits. The excessive volatility we have seen is the effect of bankers selling large positions in these markets to obtain cash to pay off short term debt, resulting from the housing mess, that had come due. Gullible John and Jane Q. Public accepted these price increases and volatility as 1) the new economy, 2) China's and India's fault, 3) no one knew what was happening, or 4) any other somewhat rational reason you can imagine.
Eventually, the inflation caused by the higher oil and commodities slowed the economy because John and Jane finally decreased their driving and stopped spending. "Uh Oh" say the bankers (and nephew Kendal, but he'll be a scientist or engineer when he grows up....not a banker) as oil and commodity prices fall dramatically because oil stockpiles are at record levels and the 2008 corn/wheat/soybean crop will be excellent.
With oil back at $100 per barrell (vs. $148) and corn at $4.80 per bushel (vs. $8), these bubbles have popped and bankers no longer have a mechanism to pay off their short-term debt. Hence, major defaults, bankrupt banks, and the "need" for a bailout. Note, the bankers could "short-sell" stocks, but the SEC banned short-selling recently.
So, what does bankers greed and the bailout have to do with John and Jane Q. Public's inability to get credit? In my opinion, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.
Imagine the bailout does not occur and the economy returns to where it was in 2000 (as some experts predict). Yes, many companies will go bankrupt. Banks will not have the cash reserved to pay off their highly leveraged debt. Companies with receivables from the banks will go bankrupt because they will not get paid. I favor this type of free market cleansing of old ideas and mistakes (call it Darwinism). However, will all credit vanish? No! Because back in 2000 we easily obtained a mortgage at an obscenely low fixed rate and were able to get a loan to buy a car.
If credit and loans were easy to obtain in 2000, banks should not punish John and Jane Q. Public now by withholding credit in an effort to save themselves. If anything, banks should be giving these loans. How else do they make money than through interest on loans (okay, annoying service charges and fees don't count). Or the Feds can give the bailout money to small businesses. $700 billion dollars would give 1 million small businesses a $100,000 loan to cover expenses. Some politicians constantly preach that small businesses are the U.S. economy. Besides, the $50,000 some businesses need probably is a small fraction of the annual bonus some of these bankers received while creating this mess.
The only possible reason for the bailout is that sovereign nations (China, Thailand, etc.) will be upset because they purchased the CDOs from the banks thinking they were safe investments. That would be bad because these countries also finance our huge budget deficitis. We don't want to make them mad and they'd withhold their money. Then we'd really be in a serious mess. Who would bailout the U.S.?
Sigh...
Well, it turned out that I didn't catch Jacqueline's cold! BTW, her sniffles were gone by the weekend and, all in all, it was not bad.
I thought that it was weird that nursing Sophie early Monday morning sorta hurt, but I chalked it up to being very engorged. After I got her back to sleep, I had trouble getting to sleep myself and then woke up feeling headachey, feverish, and naseous. I took my temperature, and it was 100.5 degrees. My first thought was "uh, oh!" and to take a look at my boobs. Sure enough, there was a tell-tale red patch on my right breast. Mastitis AGAIN!
My fever broke luckily before lunch, so I felt so much better and told Jon to go to work. At 2 p.m., Sophie, Jacqueline, and I went to the doctor (had to go back to Durham OB/GYN because it is after my post-partum period) so that they could evaluate me. Kind of a bummer that they just would not call in a prescription for me. I saw Dr. Duncan, who was the doctor who diagnosed the PPROM with Baby Thornburg. He did not know that I was pregnant and had twins and seemed genuinely excited and happy for us. This must be the happy side of being an OB/GYN, not what he had to do to us a little over a year and a half ago.
He took a look, confirmed my diagnosis, and gave me a script for Augmentin. I went to Costco to fill it immediately (fever came back so I felt like I was dying while I waited for it to be ready). I must have caught it very early because, after being on the antibiotics for two days and resting a bunch, I feel SO much better. I also don't seem to have any production issues because the twins still seem satiated. Breathing a sigh of relief...
In other good news, Sophie has returned to sleeping through the night. Maybe she was fighting off a cold or it was the change in routine with Babcia and Dzia-Dzio going back home or it was something different like a little acid reflux. Who knows? But, things appear to be getting back to normal. I've even gotten her to giggle a couple times more by giving her raspberries on her neck...nothing as good as that first time, which makes me wonder if it was gas issues that were waking her up in the middle of the night.
Jon is in Birmingham as of yesterday until late tomorrow night. We are all doing surprisingly well...I must be getting used to this motherhood thing! Mike, Tara, and Alina are also coming tomorrow night for a weekend visit. Then, on Wednesday, Tara, the girls, and I drive up to Pennsylvania for a week's visit while Jon is in California for his high school reunion and a work conference. We will all see each other briefly the following weekend before he leaves for work again. It is a busy time for us all!!! But, exciting!!!
I thought that it was weird that nursing Sophie early Monday morning sorta hurt, but I chalked it up to being very engorged. After I got her back to sleep, I had trouble getting to sleep myself and then woke up feeling headachey, feverish, and naseous. I took my temperature, and it was 100.5 degrees. My first thought was "uh, oh!" and to take a look at my boobs. Sure enough, there was a tell-tale red patch on my right breast. Mastitis AGAIN!
My fever broke luckily before lunch, so I felt so much better and told Jon to go to work. At 2 p.m., Sophie, Jacqueline, and I went to the doctor (had to go back to Durham OB/GYN because it is after my post-partum period) so that they could evaluate me. Kind of a bummer that they just would not call in a prescription for me. I saw Dr. Duncan, who was the doctor who diagnosed the PPROM with Baby Thornburg. He did not know that I was pregnant and had twins and seemed genuinely excited and happy for us. This must be the happy side of being an OB/GYN, not what he had to do to us a little over a year and a half ago.
He took a look, confirmed my diagnosis, and gave me a script for Augmentin. I went to Costco to fill it immediately (fever came back so I felt like I was dying while I waited for it to be ready). I must have caught it very early because, after being on the antibiotics for two days and resting a bunch, I feel SO much better. I also don't seem to have any production issues because the twins still seem satiated. Breathing a sigh of relief...
In other good news, Sophie has returned to sleeping through the night. Maybe she was fighting off a cold or it was the change in routine with Babcia and Dzia-Dzio going back home or it was something different like a little acid reflux. Who knows? But, things appear to be getting back to normal. I've even gotten her to giggle a couple times more by giving her raspberries on her neck...nothing as good as that first time, which makes me wonder if it was gas issues that were waking her up in the middle of the night.
Jon is in Birmingham as of yesterday until late tomorrow night. We are all doing surprisingly well...I must be getting used to this motherhood thing! Mike, Tara, and Alina are also coming tomorrow night for a weekend visit. Then, on Wednesday, Tara, the girls, and I drive up to Pennsylvania for a week's visit while Jon is in California for his high school reunion and a work conference. We will all see each other briefly the following weekend before he leaves for work again. It is a busy time for us all!!! But, exciting!!!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Weekly Update
As they say..."two steps forward, one step back."
That is the theme for this week.
How about the new, good developments this week first?
Jacqueline is becoming quite adept at reaching for toys. She no longer swipes at them; she grasps and holds too. I think this development resulted from the child psychology experiment the girls participated in last week. Shannon knows all the details, but I think the experiment was trying to determine exactly when in the 3 to 4 month range do infants develop binocular vision and depth perception to be able to grasp toys. Funny thing is, Jacqueline did not want to participate in the experiment. Shannon said she flirted with the researcher (surprised?) and then started to cry. Sophie loved the experiment and did exactly what the researcher wanted. Now, however, Sophie has not shown any interest in reaching for toys.
Sophie has been spending her time perfecting rolling onto her side. She only rolls from right to left, but she is practicing going left to right. A new visual cue that she is tired is when she rolls over and stays.
The big development, for Sophie, occurred yesterday. We were sitting on the front porch and Shannon was blowing bubbles (party favor from Naomi's 1st birthday party). She was holding Sophie so she could get a good look at the bubbles. Shannon blew some and suddenly Sophie GIGGLED!! Very, very cute. Of course, Mom and Dad were ecstatic. Sophie giggled a few more times before losing all interest in the bubbles. We'll try to get some video of her giggling. I predict, however, that it will be like trying to get video of her smiling....almost impossible. Very camera shy girl!
Now for the bad....
Everyone in the house has developed colds. I don't know who is to blame. Jacqueline had the cold first. She felt better in a few days. Mom, Dad, and Sophie got it this weekend. Poor Sophie seems to have got it the worst. She sneezes, wheezes, and generally sounds miserable. I think the cold has led to her waking up in the middle of the night. She gets congested and can't breath. Once she's awake, the only way to soothe her is to breastfeed....a burden on Shannon cause she's not feeling well. Two nights in a row, Sophie has had a 3 AM feeding. Hopefully she'll start to feel better and sleep through the night again soon.
Are you wondering why Jon is blogging instead of working? Shannon is not feeling well at all. I'm taking the day off to care for the girls and let Shannon rest. We need everyone to be feeling good because Tara, Mike and Alina arrive Thursday night. They are coming down for the World Beer Festival (I can't believe it is less than a week away....I'm excited!). We don't want baby Alina to catch whatever we have. Also, I'm going to Birmingham, Alabama tomorrow night for 2 nights.
Well, Jacqueline is waking up. I'll have to blog again about the latest beer reviews. I've got several. Until then......
That is the theme for this week.
How about the new, good developments this week first?
Jacqueline is becoming quite adept at reaching for toys. She no longer swipes at them; she grasps and holds too. I think this development resulted from the child psychology experiment the girls participated in last week. Shannon knows all the details, but I think the experiment was trying to determine exactly when in the 3 to 4 month range do infants develop binocular vision and depth perception to be able to grasp toys. Funny thing is, Jacqueline did not want to participate in the experiment. Shannon said she flirted with the researcher (surprised?) and then started to cry. Sophie loved the experiment and did exactly what the researcher wanted. Now, however, Sophie has not shown any interest in reaching for toys.
Sophie has been spending her time perfecting rolling onto her side. She only rolls from right to left, but she is practicing going left to right. A new visual cue that she is tired is when she rolls over and stays.
The big development, for Sophie, occurred yesterday. We were sitting on the front porch and Shannon was blowing bubbles (party favor from Naomi's 1st birthday party). She was holding Sophie so she could get a good look at the bubbles. Shannon blew some and suddenly Sophie GIGGLED!! Very, very cute. Of course, Mom and Dad were ecstatic. Sophie giggled a few more times before losing all interest in the bubbles. We'll try to get some video of her giggling. I predict, however, that it will be like trying to get video of her smiling....almost impossible. Very camera shy girl!
Now for the bad....
Everyone in the house has developed colds. I don't know who is to blame. Jacqueline had the cold first. She felt better in a few days. Mom, Dad, and Sophie got it this weekend. Poor Sophie seems to have got it the worst. She sneezes, wheezes, and generally sounds miserable. I think the cold has led to her waking up in the middle of the night. She gets congested and can't breath. Once she's awake, the only way to soothe her is to breastfeed....a burden on Shannon cause she's not feeling well. Two nights in a row, Sophie has had a 3 AM feeding. Hopefully she'll start to feel better and sleep through the night again soon.
Are you wondering why Jon is blogging instead of working? Shannon is not feeling well at all. I'm taking the day off to care for the girls and let Shannon rest. We need everyone to be feeling good because Tara, Mike and Alina arrive Thursday night. They are coming down for the World Beer Festival (I can't believe it is less than a week away....I'm excited!). We don't want baby Alina to catch whatever we have. Also, I'm going to Birmingham, Alabama tomorrow night for 2 nights.
Well, Jacqueline is waking up. I'll have to blog again about the latest beer reviews. I've got several. Until then......
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Babies Are Growing Up!
This past week.....Sophie has started rolling onto her side.
How we found Sophie one morning
Jacqueline now makes an effort to reach for and grab toys....
Jacqueline and her keys
More new photos were added to the slideshow.
Friday, September 19, 2008
New photos
We've been really bad about posting lately. We've been meaning to sit down and write some blogs after putting the girls to bed. However, we've been awfully tired lately because we're being woken up multiple times in the middle of the night. Not by Sophie or Jacqueline.....but by Raven. When she's bored and not getting enough stimulation, she doesn't sleep at night. To occupy herself she licks and scratches constantly!
Anyway, new photos (compliments of Aunt Amy) are posted in the slideshow.
Anyway, new photos (compliments of Aunt Amy) are posted in the slideshow.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Coincidences
This odd coincidence has occurred several times since we've lived in Durham. I'm sure I've told my family about it before. It happened again tonight so worth documenting on the blog.
Soon after Shannon and I moved into our house in 1998, I received a call one night from "Grandpa". He was a jolly fellow (like Grandpa T.), called me "Jon", lived in Indiana, loved fishing, and playing cards. We had a really nice conversation for about 10 minutes. About then, he asked how I liked my job at the pickle company. Knowing my Grandpa was old, I explained I was an engineer working in RTP in case he had forgotten. Grandpa was adamant that I had a business degree and worked for Mt. Olive Pickle Company. Everything clicked and we realized his grandson and I were different people. It just happens that the Mt. Olive "Jon" (also with given name "Jonathan") and I have phone numbers that differ by a single digit.
Over the years, Grandpa called me by accident once or twice per year. Always a trip, because he would never say "hi"...he'd jump right into some story.
In 2003, I received a phone call from a crying gentleman named "Uncle Bob" telling me that "Grandpa", his father, had died. Very freaky that I also have an Uncle Bob, although he is not related to Grandpa T. My Uncle Bob is my Mom's brother in-law.
"Uncle Bob" lives in Indiana too and he accidentally calls me once every year or two.
Tonight, he called again wanting to know if my Dad was at work. I thought it was MY Uncle Bob so I said "no, he's camping with you at Turkey Run State Park." He replied with "no, shouldn't his shift at the pickle plant have just started?" DING, DING, DING....off go the bells. We all remembered the situation, had a nice chuckle, and hung-up. A few minutes later, he called back. He wanted confirmation that my parents were camping at Turkey Run State Park in Indiana. When I replied "yes" and they are camping with my Uncle Bob and Aunt Mary who live near Brazil, Indiana, he really laughed. This "Uncle Bob" lives about 7 miles from the park. He also has a daughter named "Rebecca" that is a waitress at the restaurant inside the park. I explained my Dad and his two sons went to Purdue and my parents are in Indiana for a few weeks RVing and going to football games. Since "Uncle Bob" didn't respond with "Go Boilers!", I will assume he is not a Purdue fan.
Anyway, to any family in Indiana that reads this post please stop by the Turkey Run Inn and ask for Rebecca. I also can't wait for the next call in a few years.
Soon after Shannon and I moved into our house in 1998, I received a call one night from "Grandpa". He was a jolly fellow (like Grandpa T.), called me "Jon", lived in Indiana, loved fishing, and playing cards. We had a really nice conversation for about 10 minutes. About then, he asked how I liked my job at the pickle company. Knowing my Grandpa was old, I explained I was an engineer working in RTP in case he had forgotten. Grandpa was adamant that I had a business degree and worked for Mt. Olive Pickle Company. Everything clicked and we realized his grandson and I were different people. It just happens that the Mt. Olive "Jon" (also with given name "Jonathan") and I have phone numbers that differ by a single digit.
Over the years, Grandpa called me by accident once or twice per year. Always a trip, because he would never say "hi"...he'd jump right into some story.
In 2003, I received a phone call from a crying gentleman named "Uncle Bob" telling me that "Grandpa", his father, had died. Very freaky that I also have an Uncle Bob, although he is not related to Grandpa T. My Uncle Bob is my Mom's brother in-law.
"Uncle Bob" lives in Indiana too and he accidentally calls me once every year or two.
Tonight, he called again wanting to know if my Dad was at work. I thought it was MY Uncle Bob so I said "no, he's camping with you at Turkey Run State Park." He replied with "no, shouldn't his shift at the pickle plant have just started?" DING, DING, DING....off go the bells. We all remembered the situation, had a nice chuckle, and hung-up. A few minutes later, he called back. He wanted confirmation that my parents were camping at Turkey Run State Park in Indiana. When I replied "yes" and they are camping with my Uncle Bob and Aunt Mary who live near Brazil, Indiana, he really laughed. This "Uncle Bob" lives about 7 miles from the park. He also has a daughter named "Rebecca" that is a waitress at the restaurant inside the park. I explained my Dad and his two sons went to Purdue and my parents are in Indiana for a few weeks RVing and going to football games. Since "Uncle Bob" didn't respond with "Go Boilers!", I will assume he is not a Purdue fan.
Anyway, to any family in Indiana that reads this post please stop by the Turkey Run Inn and ask for Rebecca. I also can't wait for the next call in a few years.
Monday Night
Sophie and Jacqueline are officially 3 months on Wednesday. As cousin Cindy says.....they are growing too fast...they need to stay babies forever. However if that happened, Shannon would never get out of the house like she did tonight
Shannon and I had planned she would start going out without Jacqueline and Sophie when they were 3 months. We confirmed over the weekend that she was comfortable leaving me in charge and I was ready. Not like I wasn't ready and comfortable being alone with the twins. I just wanted to be in the proper mindset tonight, especially since it was bath night. I definitely did not want to be agitating over work or anything else.
After a hurried dinner of chicken sauteed in spaghetti sauce and olive oil with a side of Pasta Roni Natures Way (not bad) and nuked peas, Shannon went to her Mothers of Multiples meeting. So how do you occupy 2 little girls for about 2 hours? Easy....take them and the dog for a nice, long walk. We strolled the neighborhood stopping to chat with Allison (mother of Ella, her 18 month adopted daughter), Jon Cates (looking suspicious talking on his cell in the middle of Shawnee), and Pastor Laurie & Louise Parrish in the Calvary UMC parking lot. We also waved to our new neighbor Bart on Shawnee. It is always nice to chat with friends, especially old friends like Louise that we don't see very often any more.
We returned home about 7:40 PM...just in time for baths. Now, sometimes with twins you just have to let one cry. As Shannon can attest, when you're alone and only have 1 set of hands an upset baby is just going to have to deal with it for a few minutes. Baths are one of those times. Both Jacqueline and Sophie love the bath itself. Not a tear is shed. I'm sure they'll giggle and laugh when they learn how. It's the one not in the water that hollers. Once the first (Sophie tonight) was diapered and dressed, she started crying constantly while the other (Jacqueline) is bathed. Both cried simultaneously (the stereo effect) while diapers and pajamas were donned. So I could keep track of them, both were on the bed while the other was being dressed. Although it seemed much longer, one Dad bathed and changed two baby girls in 20 minutes.
Like good girls, all crying stopped as soon as bottles were popped into their mouths. I remembered my useful trick for bottle feeding two at the same time that I developed during 3 weeks of midnight feedings. Sophie took her bottle slow and steady over 25 minutes. Sophie has become very serious and studious lately. She is very stingy with smiles and does not like her concentration to be interrupted. Her vocal skills are becoming impressive too. Jacqueline played with the nipple of her bottle for about 10 minutes. As Aunt Amy noted, Jacqueline has become a huge flirt that loves to play. She drank 1/2 the bottle in about 5 minutes, played for another 5 minutes, then finished the rest. I was impressed they finished at about the same time.
By 8:30 PM, both were in their cribs fast asleep with full belly's. Then my work started....cleaning up the bath stuff, wiping off the kitchen counters, washing nipples, putting away cars seats & strollers, giving Raven her evening treat, disposing dirty diapers....whew the list can go forever.
I was on my last chore (outside moving a bird feeder blown over by Hurricane Hanna) when Shannon came home around 9:15 PM. I wanted to be sitting in the comfy chair with my feet up so I could brag how easy it was. Oh Well. It was fun and I can't wait to do it again.
I will admit I did forget one minor detail tonight. I forgot to put their little mittens on so they don't scratch their faces in the middle of the night.
Shannon and I had planned she would start going out without Jacqueline and Sophie when they were 3 months. We confirmed over the weekend that she was comfortable leaving me in charge and I was ready. Not like I wasn't ready and comfortable being alone with the twins. I just wanted to be in the proper mindset tonight, especially since it was bath night. I definitely did not want to be agitating over work or anything else.
After a hurried dinner of chicken sauteed in spaghetti sauce and olive oil with a side of Pasta Roni Natures Way (not bad) and nuked peas, Shannon went to her Mothers of Multiples meeting. So how do you occupy 2 little girls for about 2 hours? Easy....take them and the dog for a nice, long walk. We strolled the neighborhood stopping to chat with Allison (mother of Ella, her 18 month adopted daughter), Jon Cates (looking suspicious talking on his cell in the middle of Shawnee), and Pastor Laurie & Louise Parrish in the Calvary UMC parking lot. We also waved to our new neighbor Bart on Shawnee. It is always nice to chat with friends, especially old friends like Louise that we don't see very often any more.
We returned home about 7:40 PM...just in time for baths. Now, sometimes with twins you just have to let one cry. As Shannon can attest, when you're alone and only have 1 set of hands an upset baby is just going to have to deal with it for a few minutes. Baths are one of those times. Both Jacqueline and Sophie love the bath itself. Not a tear is shed. I'm sure they'll giggle and laugh when they learn how. It's the one not in the water that hollers. Once the first (Sophie tonight) was diapered and dressed, she started crying constantly while the other (Jacqueline) is bathed. Both cried simultaneously (the stereo effect) while diapers and pajamas were donned. So I could keep track of them, both were on the bed while the other was being dressed. Although it seemed much longer, one Dad bathed and changed two baby girls in 20 minutes.
Like good girls, all crying stopped as soon as bottles were popped into their mouths. I remembered my useful trick for bottle feeding two at the same time that I developed during 3 weeks of midnight feedings. Sophie took her bottle slow and steady over 25 minutes. Sophie has become very serious and studious lately. She is very stingy with smiles and does not like her concentration to be interrupted. Her vocal skills are becoming impressive too. Jacqueline played with the nipple of her bottle for about 10 minutes. As Aunt Amy noted, Jacqueline has become a huge flirt that loves to play. She drank 1/2 the bottle in about 5 minutes, played for another 5 minutes, then finished the rest. I was impressed they finished at about the same time.
By 8:30 PM, both were in their cribs fast asleep with full belly's. Then my work started....cleaning up the bath stuff, wiping off the kitchen counters, washing nipples, putting away cars seats & strollers, giving Raven her evening treat, disposing dirty diapers....whew the list can go forever.
I was on my last chore (outside moving a bird feeder blown over by Hurricane Hanna) when Shannon came home around 9:15 PM. I wanted to be sitting in the comfy chair with my feet up so I could brag how easy it was. Oh Well. It was fun and I can't wait to do it again.
I will admit I did forget one minor detail tonight. I forgot to put their little mittens on so they don't scratch their faces in the middle of the night.
Friday, August 29, 2008
More new photos
More new photos are in the slideshow. Click on a photo to see a larger version and the captions.
http://picasaweb.google.com/thornburgsnc
The link to all our photos is above.
http://picasaweb.google.com/thornburgsnc
The link to all our photos is above.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Top 8 Things Not to Say to Your Breastfeeding Wife
8. "Would you like hay for dinner or are you going to chew your cud?"
7. "Give me a B - O - O - B - I - E - S...what's that spell? BOOBIES!!" Picture Jon in a cheerleader outfit with pom-poms...okay maybe not. How about cheering babies?
6. "Moo!!" along with cowbell noises
5."Come here...I need to install your nose ring"
4. "Happy Smohrs make Happy milk"
3. "You really need to fix your leaky faucets"
2. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWnmCu3U09w
1. "Shannon is going tribal!!"
I hope Shannon doesn't kill me for posting this list!!
7. "Give me a B - O - O - B - I - E - S...what's that spell? BOOBIES!!" Picture Jon in a cheerleader outfit with pom-poms...okay maybe not. How about cheering babies?
6. "Moo!!" along with cowbell noises
5."Come here...I need to install your nose ring"
4. "Happy Smohrs make Happy milk"
3. "You really need to fix your leaky faucets"
2. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWnmCu3U09w
1. "Shannon is going tribal!!"
I hope Shannon doesn't kill me for posting this list!!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
First Business Trip
I'm on my way home from my first business trip since J&S were born. I do miss everyone, but the entire trip was not as bad as I thought it would be. Good to know because ye olde travel schedule is going to get busy in October. Of course, I was only gone for 1 night. The upcoming trips will be longer. I'll also admit running home before going to the airport yesterday to collect 2 "essential" items I forgot...I also got to say goodbye to S&J&S again.
So where in the world is Jon? Dayton OH International Airport (at the moment). A fairly dumpy airport, but at least they have free WiFI and the airfare was $600 cheaper than flying to Cincinnati (where my meeting was).
I have some more time to kill....I think I'll see if I can find something for S&J. I think they deserve a trinket to commemorate my first trip. Shannon probably deserves something too.....like an afternoon at Bella Trio spa!
So where in the world is Jon? Dayton OH International Airport (at the moment). A fairly dumpy airport, but at least they have free WiFI and the airfare was $600 cheaper than flying to Cincinnati (where my meeting was).
I have some more time to kill....I think I'll see if I can find something for S&J. I think they deserve a trinket to commemorate my first trip. Shannon probably deserves something too.....like an afternoon at Bella Trio spa!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Caught Red Pawed
I noticed as I walked into the kitchen Friday evening that another almost ripe tomato was missing. (FYI, tomato plants are in barrels along the driveway. I walk by them daily.) I complained to Shannon, again, about another year without homemade pasta sauce, homemade salsa, or fresh tomatoes for my salads. During my tirade, Shannon exclaims "OMG! A squirrel just climbed the tomato cage and swiped another tomato." Mystery solved.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Update & Other Musings
I thought an update on Sophie and Jacqueline was in order. We've been pretty busy lately, so haven't had much time to visit neighbors or post to the blog. One big event was the Walbring (my Mom's family) family reunion. I think it was a huge success and I had a great time. Sophie and Jacqueline coped amazingly well with all the people and activities over the weekend. Of course, they were tired too and were a little cranky for a few days after the reunion ended.
For those who inquire (and those who don't), Sophie and Jacqueline are close to sleeping through the night; corresponding to Mom and Dad getting more sleep. We put them to bed about 9:30 PM, after a bedtime feeding. One usually wakes up between 3 and 4 AM. I think the other would continue sleeping, maybe thru the night, but we wake the other to feed at the same time. Much thanks to Shannon for handling the 3 AM feeding solo so Jon can sleep (fyi..duties are split fairly even....I handle any issues from 9:30 PM till I fall asleep; and again from 5 AM to 7 AM).
A big, recent "Dad" learning moment was realizing that the girls like variety. Once you handle the hungry, diaper, and sleepy issues, keeping the twins happy is just a matter of finding the toy they want to play with or the room they want to hang out in. Both really enjoy sitting on the front porch looking at the sky and trees.
Sophie still is the mellow baby in the house. Although she seems to have developed a more serious aspect to her personality. She spends a lot of time concentrating very hard on various items (hands, lights, mobiles, etc.). She furrows her brow and stares very intently at the object. Usually during these periods, she'll let out a heavy sigh. Like she is saying "woe is me." She generally is a quiet, happy girl. However, if she gets upset she can really holler! Sophie is still bigger and more physically advanced than Jacqueline too. Although, Sophie is losing her hair!
Jacqueline is still more needy and likes to be held. She is not as demanding as she was before. Part of it is her maturation and part is our understanding of her "meltdown" point. Soothing and comforting her before she goes ballistic is much, much easier. She also is much better at soothing herself, especially when she is tired. Although Sophie is larger and stronger, I am convinced Jacqueline will be the first to crawl, walk, and talk. She already can wiggle her way across the floor using a crawling motion with her legs. She's just not strong enough to prop herself on her knees and hands. She also likes to stand (with assistance) on her legs and try to walk. Jacqueline also has an impressive range of coos, chirps, squeaks, and laughs. Sophie is not as talkative. Finally, Jacqueline may have inherited the "love to look at myself in the mirror" gene that runs in my family. She loves to look at herself; Sophie could care less.
As I wrap-up this post, here are some random thoughts that have been running through my head and some other news.
1. Some new parents leased a billboard on the Durham Freeway announcing the birth of their son. I guess that is a unique way to announce their happy news.
2. Remember a few years ago on a previous blog, I complained about tomato thieves that turned out to be raccoons, possums, and squirrels because of the drought? Well, the thieves are back. Three almost ripe tomatoes have vanished. Still no idea whether the thieves this year have 4 or 2 legs.
3. All the houses on our block are occupied again! YEAH! It's nice having neighbors. Several other new neighbors have moved nearby too!
4. I just remembered, World Beer Festival tickets went on sale today for magazine subscribers. I'm gonna stop here and purchase my tickets before I forget. Oh yeah, I suppose I should get back to work too.
For those who inquire (and those who don't), Sophie and Jacqueline are close to sleeping through the night; corresponding to Mom and Dad getting more sleep. We put them to bed about 9:30 PM, after a bedtime feeding. One usually wakes up between 3 and 4 AM. I think the other would continue sleeping, maybe thru the night, but we wake the other to feed at the same time. Much thanks to Shannon for handling the 3 AM feeding solo so Jon can sleep (fyi..duties are split fairly even....I handle any issues from 9:30 PM till I fall asleep; and again from 5 AM to 7 AM).
A big, recent "Dad" learning moment was realizing that the girls like variety. Once you handle the hungry, diaper, and sleepy issues, keeping the twins happy is just a matter of finding the toy they want to play with or the room they want to hang out in. Both really enjoy sitting on the front porch looking at the sky and trees.
Sophie still is the mellow baby in the house. Although she seems to have developed a more serious aspect to her personality. She spends a lot of time concentrating very hard on various items (hands, lights, mobiles, etc.). She furrows her brow and stares very intently at the object. Usually during these periods, she'll let out a heavy sigh. Like she is saying "woe is me." She generally is a quiet, happy girl. However, if she gets upset she can really holler! Sophie is still bigger and more physically advanced than Jacqueline too. Although, Sophie is losing her hair!
Jacqueline is still more needy and likes to be held. She is not as demanding as she was before. Part of it is her maturation and part is our understanding of her "meltdown" point. Soothing and comforting her before she goes ballistic is much, much easier. She also is much better at soothing herself, especially when she is tired. Although Sophie is larger and stronger, I am convinced Jacqueline will be the first to crawl, walk, and talk. She already can wiggle her way across the floor using a crawling motion with her legs. She's just not strong enough to prop herself on her knees and hands. She also likes to stand (with assistance) on her legs and try to walk. Jacqueline also has an impressive range of coos, chirps, squeaks, and laughs. Sophie is not as talkative. Finally, Jacqueline may have inherited the "love to look at myself in the mirror" gene that runs in my family. She loves to look at herself; Sophie could care less.
As I wrap-up this post, here are some random thoughts that have been running through my head and some other news.
1. Some new parents leased a billboard on the Durham Freeway announcing the birth of their son. I guess that is a unique way to announce their happy news.
2. Remember a few years ago on a previous blog, I complained about tomato thieves that turned out to be raccoons, possums, and squirrels because of the drought? Well, the thieves are back. Three almost ripe tomatoes have vanished. Still no idea whether the thieves this year have 4 or 2 legs.
3. All the houses on our block are occupied again! YEAH! It's nice having neighbors. Several other new neighbors have moved nearby too!
4. I just remembered, World Beer Festival tickets went on sale today for magazine subscribers. I'm gonna stop here and purchase my tickets before I forget. Oh yeah, I suppose I should get back to work too.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Jacqueline Playing
This video is from a couple weeks ago. It's still cute though. Thought everyone would like to see it.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Look, Ma, No Hands!!!
One of the benefits of nursing two babies at once is that you don't need your hands to do it. You just latch them on and let them go!!! Even though I feel amazing and a sense of awe providing for the girls and value our bonding time together every day, nursing, as an activity, can be quite boring in general especially by the third or fourth feeding of the day. Try sitting in one spot for 45 minutes at a time every three hours with something tugging at your nipples, and you will know what I mean!!!
As the girls have gotten bigger and stronger, they are getting faster. But, I have also discovered that Mommy has gotten better at occupying herself. Daytime television sucks (funny how it entertained me while pregnant...that pregnancy brain must have made me stupid), so I watch Netflix, talk on the telephone, or READ!!! At this point, I have only read paperback novels...reading a hardback is too heavy and the newspaper is too cumbersome. Since the girls have arrived and I first attempted nursing them simultaneously, I have devoured three novels. They are not great literature, but enjoyable all the same:
(1.) A Simple Plan by Scott Smith. Character study more than action filled. People have told me that his novel, The Ruins, is much better than this one. Story is that a man, his brother, and his brother's best friend stumble upon a wrecked private airplane. There is a duffle bag with over $4 million in cash. They decide to take it and split it. Seems simple enough, but things quickly get out of control and a seemingly normal person ends up a multiple murderer. The money is eventually destroyed. Brings up an interesting topic of discussion about whether you would steal money from a criminal if no one would know, whether you would kill someone to protect said money or to keep from going to jail, etc.
(2.) The Fifth Vial by Michael Palmer. Medical thriller involving the trade of illegally-obtained organs. Kinda like that urban legend in which a guy wakes up in a tub full of ice to find that one of his kidneys has been removed, but much more complicated and nefarious. Again, Jon and I had an interesting dialogue about whether some people should be denied organs because they are not worthy or refuse to correct behavior (i.e., smoking, drugs, etc.) that put them in need of a transplant in the first place and whether people who make important contributions to society should be bumped up on transplant lists.
(3.) Natural Causes by Michael Palmer. Another medical thriller, but slightly less believable than The Fifth Vial. The author wrote the novel 15 years ago, and it is clear that he has honed his skills since then. The basic premise surrounds women who die during childbirth (good thing that I didn't read this a couple of months ago) and what is causing it.
As the girls have gotten bigger and stronger, they are getting faster. But, I have also discovered that Mommy has gotten better at occupying herself. Daytime television sucks (funny how it entertained me while pregnant...that pregnancy brain must have made me stupid), so I watch Netflix, talk on the telephone, or READ!!! At this point, I have only read paperback novels...reading a hardback is too heavy and the newspaper is too cumbersome. Since the girls have arrived and I first attempted nursing them simultaneously, I have devoured three novels. They are not great literature, but enjoyable all the same:
(1.) A Simple Plan by Scott Smith. Character study more than action filled. People have told me that his novel, The Ruins, is much better than this one. Story is that a man, his brother, and his brother's best friend stumble upon a wrecked private airplane. There is a duffle bag with over $4 million in cash. They decide to take it and split it. Seems simple enough, but things quickly get out of control and a seemingly normal person ends up a multiple murderer. The money is eventually destroyed. Brings up an interesting topic of discussion about whether you would steal money from a criminal if no one would know, whether you would kill someone to protect said money or to keep from going to jail, etc.
(2.) The Fifth Vial by Michael Palmer. Medical thriller involving the trade of illegally-obtained organs. Kinda like that urban legend in which a guy wakes up in a tub full of ice to find that one of his kidneys has been removed, but much more complicated and nefarious. Again, Jon and I had an interesting dialogue about whether some people should be denied organs because they are not worthy or refuse to correct behavior (i.e., smoking, drugs, etc.) that put them in need of a transplant in the first place and whether people who make important contributions to society should be bumped up on transplant lists.
(3.) Natural Causes by Michael Palmer. Another medical thriller, but slightly less believable than The Fifth Vial. The author wrote the novel 15 years ago, and it is clear that he has honed his skills since then. The basic premise surrounds women who die during childbirth (good thing that I didn't read this a couple of months ago) and what is causing it.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Poll Photos
I finally got my baby photo compressed to a reasonable file size. Use these photos to address the poll.
Jon - 1970
Jacqueline - 2008Monday, July 28, 2008
Welcome to Alina Grace Mohr Goldfine!!!
Due July 31st, Miss Alina Grace Mohr Goldfine couldn't wait to come into this world and join her baby cousins. Alina was born on July 24th at 1:30 a.m. weighing in at 6 pounds 11 ounces and 19 3/4 inches long.
This story is too good not to share...
Tara went into labor at 4:30 p.m. while visiting our parents' house in New Hope to enjoy the pool. Mike had just called from work to say that he would be by soon to pick her up to go home. Dad was prattling on about how he was going to take advantage of the tax law changes and convert all of his traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs, and Tara felt like she had wet her pants. She waited for a break in the conversation, which did not come, and finally said "uh, Dad." Dad looked at her and said, "I know, I'm probably boring you." Tara replied, "no, I think that my water just broke." Dad asked, "are you sure?" Note...this must be a common doctor question as it was the same question I got when I called the OB on call the night my water broke. Of course, all of we first-time moms are thinking how do we even know...this is the first time we have done this!!!
Mike comes and they drive an hour back to Philly. Tara hadn't packed a bag for the hospital yet (love ya, girl, but you are the supreme procrastinator), so she does this, takes a shower, and eats dinner. It is 8:30 p.m. before they get to the hospital (o.k., I was freaking out that it took us an hour to get everything together and get to the hospital). At 10:30 p.m., she is only 2 cm dialated (I was 4 cm upon arrival). And, as you see above, Alina arrived at 1:30 a.m. By the time that Tara felt that she had to ask for an epidural, she was 9 cm, so it was too late.
At any rate, Tara and I had the totally opposite pregnancy experiences. I had every symptom known to pregnant women and was wearing maternity clothes by Thanksgiving (our transfer was in October) and then I had the only slightly less than mega-marathon labor of 16 hours, 6 of which were spent pushing. Oh, and there was 87-pound weight gain. And then there's Tara...not sick...no edema...no carpal tunnel...so svelte that an outfit that I had wanted to wear for my shower in April but couldn't fit into was way too big for her a couple of weeks ago...gets the three-hour labor!!! Darn her!!! Oh well, I suppose whoever said life was fair???
Well, however Sophie, Jacqueline, and Alina got here, we are are so happy that they are here and we are looking forward to much family fun in the years to come!!!
P.S. Sophie and Jacqueline were secretly wishing for a little girl cousin :-)
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Beer Bucket List
All About Beer magazine (www.allaboutbeer.com) published a list of 125 places to have a beer before you die. You might want to check out the list and see how many places you have patronized. The list definitely gives me another goal in my life! I think I need to travel internationally though.
In the order ranked by the magazine, here are the places I have quaffed a few. As a special treat, #126 is the one I think should have made the list.....
#23 - Henry's 12th Street Tavern, Portland OR. Visited during a conference one year
#25 - World Beer Festival, Durham NC. It's right down the street...been every year but 1.
#39 - Flying Saucer Bar, Raleigh NC. Better selection than Tyler's!
#44 - Tailgating at a SEC football game. I still don't like Georgia fans.
#76 - City Tavern, Philadelphia PA. Very colonial. They serve the beer in pewter mugs.
#88 - Baumgartner's Cheese Store & Tavern, Monroe WI. Beautiful stone building. Hung out there after a wedding in 1994.
#110 - The Gingerman, Austin TX (& Houston TX). Where I first discovered the world of craft beer.
#118 - Top of the Hill Brewery, Chapel Hill NC. Wonderful view from the balcony and great beer. Clientele can be a little snobby sometimes.
#125 - The Happy Gnome, St Paul MN. Also patronized during a conference.
Close but no cigar....
#9 - Monk's Cafe, Philadelphia PA. I was there for brunch...drinking Mimosa's.
#16 - Seats on top of the Green Monster at Fenway Park, Boston MA. The seats were not there last time I was at Fenway. I did sit in the outfield bleachers.
#31 - Turn 4 Suites and Indy Motor Speedway, Indianapolis IN. Yeah right, like I could get seats......I did drink beer at the Indy 500 though.
Place that should be on the list.....
#126 - The Terrace at the U. Wisconsin Union. Beautiful place to eat brats, ice cream, and drink beer while overlooking the lake on a summer evening.
In the order ranked by the magazine, here are the places I have quaffed a few. As a special treat, #126 is the one I think should have made the list.....
#23 - Henry's 12th Street Tavern, Portland OR. Visited during a conference one year
#25 - World Beer Festival, Durham NC. It's right down the street...been every year but 1.
#39 - Flying Saucer Bar, Raleigh NC. Better selection than Tyler's!
#44 - Tailgating at a SEC football game. I still don't like Georgia fans.
#76 - City Tavern, Philadelphia PA. Very colonial. They serve the beer in pewter mugs.
#88 - Baumgartner's Cheese Store & Tavern, Monroe WI. Beautiful stone building. Hung out there after a wedding in 1994.
#110 - The Gingerman, Austin TX (& Houston TX). Where I first discovered the world of craft beer.
#118 - Top of the Hill Brewery, Chapel Hill NC. Wonderful view from the balcony and great beer. Clientele can be a little snobby sometimes.
#125 - The Happy Gnome, St Paul MN. Also patronized during a conference.
Close but no cigar....
#9 - Monk's Cafe, Philadelphia PA. I was there for brunch...drinking Mimosa's.
#16 - Seats on top of the Green Monster at Fenway Park, Boston MA. The seats were not there last time I was at Fenway. I did sit in the outfield bleachers.
#31 - Turn 4 Suites and Indy Motor Speedway, Indianapolis IN. Yeah right, like I could get seats......I did drink beer at the Indy 500 though.
Place that should be on the list.....
#126 - The Terrace at the U. Wisconsin Union. Beautiful place to eat brats, ice cream, and drink beer while overlooking the lake on a summer evening.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Long Time No Update
Phew!!! What an exciting 6 weeks. Jacqueline and Sophie will be 7 weeks old next Tuesday. They already have grown...physically and personality.
So what can I say about them? It's been so long since I've updated, I don't know where to start. How about if we start at the beginning?
Sophie started out as the independent one. She was more than happy to entertain herself in the bouncer chair, pack n play, or whereever. She also loved her pacifier. Jacqueline, on the other hand, well....she quickly earned the nickname "HM". "Her majesty". "High Maintenance". The running joke for a couple weeks was that we already felt very sorry for Jacqueline's future husband. Jacqueline always had to be carried. We bought a sling and I would carry her around for hours, with her all snuggled up and cooing like a bird. The only way you could put her down was to swaddle her really tight.
A couple weeks ago, Sophie started to crave more cuddle time and started losing interest in the bouncer chair and pacifier. Fortunately, Jacqueline became a little more independent. Give her a pacifier and she would lay in the pack n play for a while.
Very recently, they both have learned how to entertain themselves. Hands, fingers, toys/lights/mobiles on their chairs have become fascinating. They are starting to associate their movements activate the songs/lights and that their hand/figures are always nearby. They might not realize that they belong to them. Surprisingly, they like seem to like a variety of activities. Our job is to figure out what they want to play with. This morning, they are enjoying their swings. Yesterday, it was bouncer chairs.
Another momentous event occurred this week. We moved the girls upstairs to their nursery. It is time to begin teaching them to sleep thru the night. Also, they are geting too big for both to fit in the pack n play at the same time.
Shannon and her Mom witnessed their first developmental milestone this past week. Both can smile to display their happiness. Sophie started first. Jacqueline started a few days later. We already knew they had pretty smiles. They always smiled reflexively after performing some form of bodily function. Seeing a relfexive smile was a great hint to check a diaper.
Sophie and Jacqueline are growing like weeds too. At 4 weeks, Sophie was 9 lbs 5 oz and Jacqueline was 7 lbs 10 oz. This week, using our highly scientific daddy tare weight method, we determined Sophie is right around 10 lbs and Jacqueline is almost 9 lbs. Jacqueline is quickly narrowing the gap in their weights. Sophie is still obviously bigger because she is stocky. Seems Jacqueline is more like me....long and lanky. She isn't filling out...just growing longer.
Mom and Dad are doing well. I realized the other day that in the almost 7 weeks since Sophie and Jacqueline were born, Shannon has been alone with the girls for only 5 days. I took 3 weeks off work to enjoy the time with the family. But since I've been back to work, we've had great support from my Mom and Shannon's parents. Wow! What a life saver! Shannon has had company while I'm at work, someone to learn new parenting skills from, help around the house (thanks to my Mom!), and willing assistance for the late night feedings. I was relieved of late night duty for the week while Wanda (Shannon's Mom) was here. Thank goodness too because I needed the rest. Right after the girls were born, I developed a nasty sore throat and viral sinus infection. Nothing I could do about it but rest. However, how do you rest when you're caring for infant twins? 5 weeks later, I still had the cold. It was really draining my energy too. One night this past week, I came home and slept for 9 hours. Something I could only do with Shannon's Mom here. I'm finally feeling better...still a little froggy though.
With her Mom here, Shannon was able to get out some too. Tyler's seemed to be a favorite destination. Wonder why? Sophie and Jacqueline can handle about 2 to 3 hours out on the town before the meltdown begins.
Shannon's Mom left this morning for Philadelphia. We wish she could've stayed, but she has another new granddaughter to attend to. Tara and Mike had a baby girl (Alina Grace) this week. Alena was about the size of Jacqueline, but looks exactly like Sophie. Congratulations to them!!
Besides family, I have to thank all our friends who have helped us over the last 6 weeks. Meals, grocery runs, yard work, and walks were all greatly appreciated. Y'all helped save our sanity.
That's about it. I'm sure Shannon has other details. Maybe she'll get a chance to update y'all with more information. I'll update the slideshow with some new photos.
In the meantime. Check out the two baby photos. Question #1. Do you think Jacqueline looks like my baby photo? Can you tell who is who?
Ugh....you'll have to wait.....need to reduce the size of my baby photo. Be patient.
So what can I say about them? It's been so long since I've updated, I don't know where to start. How about if we start at the beginning?
Sophie started out as the independent one. She was more than happy to entertain herself in the bouncer chair, pack n play, or whereever. She also loved her pacifier. Jacqueline, on the other hand, well....she quickly earned the nickname "HM". "Her majesty". "High Maintenance". The running joke for a couple weeks was that we already felt very sorry for Jacqueline's future husband. Jacqueline always had to be carried. We bought a sling and I would carry her around for hours, with her all snuggled up and cooing like a bird. The only way you could put her down was to swaddle her really tight.
A couple weeks ago, Sophie started to crave more cuddle time and started losing interest in the bouncer chair and pacifier. Fortunately, Jacqueline became a little more independent. Give her a pacifier and she would lay in the pack n play for a while.
Very recently, they both have learned how to entertain themselves. Hands, fingers, toys/lights/mobiles on their chairs have become fascinating. They are starting to associate their movements activate the songs/lights and that their hand/figures are always nearby. They might not realize that they belong to them. Surprisingly, they like seem to like a variety of activities. Our job is to figure out what they want to play with. This morning, they are enjoying their swings. Yesterday, it was bouncer chairs.
Another momentous event occurred this week. We moved the girls upstairs to their nursery. It is time to begin teaching them to sleep thru the night. Also, they are geting too big for both to fit in the pack n play at the same time.
Shannon and her Mom witnessed their first developmental milestone this past week. Both can smile to display their happiness. Sophie started first. Jacqueline started a few days later. We already knew they had pretty smiles. They always smiled reflexively after performing some form of bodily function. Seeing a relfexive smile was a great hint to check a diaper.
Sophie and Jacqueline are growing like weeds too. At 4 weeks, Sophie was 9 lbs 5 oz and Jacqueline was 7 lbs 10 oz. This week, using our highly scientific daddy tare weight method, we determined Sophie is right around 10 lbs and Jacqueline is almost 9 lbs. Jacqueline is quickly narrowing the gap in their weights. Sophie is still obviously bigger because she is stocky. Seems Jacqueline is more like me....long and lanky. She isn't filling out...just growing longer.
Mom and Dad are doing well. I realized the other day that in the almost 7 weeks since Sophie and Jacqueline were born, Shannon has been alone with the girls for only 5 days. I took 3 weeks off work to enjoy the time with the family. But since I've been back to work, we've had great support from my Mom and Shannon's parents. Wow! What a life saver! Shannon has had company while I'm at work, someone to learn new parenting skills from, help around the house (thanks to my Mom!), and willing assistance for the late night feedings. I was relieved of late night duty for the week while Wanda (Shannon's Mom) was here. Thank goodness too because I needed the rest. Right after the girls were born, I developed a nasty sore throat and viral sinus infection. Nothing I could do about it but rest. However, how do you rest when you're caring for infant twins? 5 weeks later, I still had the cold. It was really draining my energy too. One night this past week, I came home and slept for 9 hours. Something I could only do with Shannon's Mom here. I'm finally feeling better...still a little froggy though.
With her Mom here, Shannon was able to get out some too. Tyler's seemed to be a favorite destination. Wonder why? Sophie and Jacqueline can handle about 2 to 3 hours out on the town before the meltdown begins.
Shannon's Mom left this morning for Philadelphia. We wish she could've stayed, but she has another new granddaughter to attend to. Tara and Mike had a baby girl (Alina Grace) this week. Alena was about the size of Jacqueline, but looks exactly like Sophie. Congratulations to them!!
Besides family, I have to thank all our friends who have helped us over the last 6 weeks. Meals, grocery runs, yard work, and walks were all greatly appreciated. Y'all helped save our sanity.
That's about it. I'm sure Shannon has other details. Maybe she'll get a chance to update y'all with more information. I'll update the slideshow with some new photos.
In the meantime. Check out the two baby photos. Question #1. Do you think Jacqueline looks like my baby photo? Can you tell who is who?
Ugh....you'll have to wait.....need to reduce the size of my baby photo. Be patient.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
A Day in the Life
I hope Paul and/or Yoko don't sue us over the title of this post......
How we spend our days (most of them at least).
6 AM - Wake-up a few minutes before 6. Feed the pets first (so demanding). Wake-up Shannon and babies for the first feeding. Make breakfast and coffee. Get the paper. Sterilize bottles, nipples, and pump supplies.
7:30 AM - First feeding done...Nap time for Mom, Dad, Jacqueline, Sophie, and all pets!
9:00 AM - Time for "brunch" for Jacqueline and Sophie. Make Shannon a second breakfast. Read some of the paper. Spend some time with Raven. Other small kitchen tasks like unloading the dishwasher.
~10:30 AM - Girls should be sleeping. Showers and personal hygiene for Shannon and Jon. Maybe relax for a few minutes.
12:00 PM - Lunch time for everyone!
1:30 PM - If we are lucky, Shannon gets 30 to 60 minutes for herself. She checks email, reads a magazine, or vegetates in front of the TV. Jon does other chores or watches sleeping babies.
3:00 PM - Afternoon snack for Jacqueline and Sophie.
5 PM - Time for our daily walk around the neighborhood. We have quickly learned which sidewalks are stroller friendly. If we are really lucky, we also can sit on the front porch by ourselves and talk. Shannon had her first post-pregnancy beer on our porch to celebrate our anniverary. Jacqueline and Sophie' present was an hour of quiet time on the porch. Shannon had a Shipyard Special Export Ale. One of her favorite beers.
6 PM - Dinner for Sophie and Jacqueline. Jon starts preparing our dinner. Dinner for Mom and Dad comes later.
7:30 - Watch "Wheel of Fortune" or "Entertainment Tonight" while eating dinner; usually with one or both girls in our arms.
9 PM - Bedtime feeding.
10 PM - Shannon goes to bed. Jon watches TV or checks his email while trying to stay awake until the 12 AM feeding.
12 AM - Jon bottle feeds Jacqueline and Sophie. Shannon gets to sleep until 3 AM. I'm usually in bed by 1 AM or a little after.
3 AM - Late night feeding. Probably the toughest of them all. Shannon bottle feeds AND pumps. When the girls are bigger and breastfeeding is easier, maybe Shannon will not have to take the extra time and pump.
6 AM - Rinse & Repeat!
At all times there are pump supplies and bottles to be washed, diapers to be changed, and babies to comfort.
How we spend our days (most of them at least).
6 AM - Wake-up a few minutes before 6. Feed the pets first (so demanding). Wake-up Shannon and babies for the first feeding. Make breakfast and coffee. Get the paper. Sterilize bottles, nipples, and pump supplies.
7:30 AM - First feeding done...Nap time for Mom, Dad, Jacqueline, Sophie, and all pets!
9:00 AM - Time for "brunch" for Jacqueline and Sophie. Make Shannon a second breakfast. Read some of the paper. Spend some time with Raven. Other small kitchen tasks like unloading the dishwasher.
~10:30 AM - Girls should be sleeping. Showers and personal hygiene for Shannon and Jon. Maybe relax for a few minutes.
12:00 PM - Lunch time for everyone!
1:30 PM - If we are lucky, Shannon gets 30 to 60 minutes for herself. She checks email, reads a magazine, or vegetates in front of the TV. Jon does other chores or watches sleeping babies.
3:00 PM - Afternoon snack for Jacqueline and Sophie.
5 PM - Time for our daily walk around the neighborhood. We have quickly learned which sidewalks are stroller friendly. If we are really lucky, we also can sit on the front porch by ourselves and talk. Shannon had her first post-pregnancy beer on our porch to celebrate our anniverary. Jacqueline and Sophie' present was an hour of quiet time on the porch. Shannon had a Shipyard Special Export Ale. One of her favorite beers.
6 PM - Dinner for Sophie and Jacqueline. Jon starts preparing our dinner. Dinner for Mom and Dad comes later.
7:30 - Watch "Wheel of Fortune" or "Entertainment Tonight" while eating dinner; usually with one or both girls in our arms.
9 PM - Bedtime feeding.
10 PM - Shannon goes to bed. Jon watches TV or checks his email while trying to stay awake until the 12 AM feeding.
12 AM - Jon bottle feeds Jacqueline and Sophie. Shannon gets to sleep until 3 AM. I'm usually in bed by 1 AM or a little after.
3 AM - Late night feeding. Probably the toughest of them all. Shannon bottle feeds AND pumps. When the girls are bigger and breastfeeding is easier, maybe Shannon will not have to take the extra time and pump.
6 AM - Rinse & Repeat!
At all times there are pump supplies and bottles to be washed, diapers to be changed, and babies to comfort.
Monday, June 16, 2008
New Pictures
Not much time for anything but a few new pictures.
At home
First meeting
Leaving the hospitalWednesday, June 11, 2008
Meet Jacqueline & Sophie
Sophie is on the left. Jacqueline is on the right.Sophie: 6:25 PM, 8 lbs 12oz, 20 3/4 inches
Jacqueline: 6:28 PM, 6 lbs 5 oz, 19 1/2 inches
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Beer Review #3
Nothing to do on an extremely warm Sunday afternoon. Why not drink a beer and write a review?
Beer: SOB (Special Old Bitter) Ale, Atlantic Brewing Co., Bar Harbor ME
My Dad brought this back from a trip to Maine
Occasion: Killin' time on a Sunday
First Impression: Impressive foamy head that keeps on going like the Engergizer Bunny
Aroma: Non-existent
Body: Flat, uniform feel - almost watery
Taste: All alcohol from start to finish. Maybe some hops, but hard to tell.
Overall Impression: Drinkable in its current state. I think the bottle may be a little old. Dad gave it to me last October. I would give this beer another shot if I had a fresh bottle.
Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars.
Beer Review #2
Beer: Shining Rock Lager from Highland Brewing Company, Asheville NC
A seasonal Maibock available in May at Sam's Quik Shop
Occasion: Amy & Mark's kitchen after 5 minutes of work to cut wood for the nursery AC unit. The 100 F heat necessitated 2 hours conversation and beer.
First Impression: I was not impressed by my first sip...my mistake. The aroma of the spicy noble hops caught my attention.
Aroma: Reminded me of spring...floral & spicy.
Taste: Wicked combination of malts was very complex. Light on the palate with the spicy/alcohol finish.
Overall Impression: A very nice Maibock. One of the better Maibock's I have tasted. I think the front was a little too complex; I was overwhelmed by too many flavors.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
June Books
Can you believe I read 3 books in June? I'm surprised. I will admit two books were short, quick reads. I attribute my success reading to the lack of anything remotely entertaining on daytime TV.
Cluster by Piers Anthony. I returned to my teenage roots again to re-read this sci-fi novel. I remember it not being one of my favorites at that time. After reading it again, I realize I was a little young to fully understand the nuances in the book. I did understand the sex, though! A classic, sci-fi tale about using your intellect, naivete, and libido to unite a galaxy of different cultures. The underlying morals of the story (acceptance of differences, cooperation for the common good) are classic themes. This book, I think, also was the first by the author that had a heavy Tarot influence. The remainder of this series (4 more books) plus another trilogy revolve heavily around Tarot as a unifying tool explain how people's actions affect the fate of the universe. I'll need to learn more about Tarot from Amy and maybe have her give me a reading.
Cluster by Piers Anthony. I returned to my teenage roots again to re-read this sci-fi novel. I remember it not being one of my favorites at that time. After reading it again, I realize I was a little young to fully understand the nuances in the book. I did understand the sex, though! A classic, sci-fi tale about using your intellect, naivete, and libido to unite a galaxy of different cultures. The underlying morals of the story (acceptance of differences, cooperation for the common good) are classic themes. This book, I think, also was the first by the author that had a heavy Tarot influence. The remainder of this series (4 more books) plus another trilogy revolve heavily around Tarot as a unifying tool explain how people's actions affect the fate of the universe. I'll need to learn more about Tarot from Amy and maybe have her give me a reading.
The Silver Chair by C.S. Lewis. Book 4 of the Narnia series. A quick, easy read while adjusting to the new routine at home with Sophie & Jacqueline. I did like the moral of the story - follow through when an authority figure gives you instructions or your life will become more difficult.
The Horse and His Boy by C.S. Lewis. Book 5 of the Narnia series. This book showed its age. The story is not very accepting of other cultures. Also, it is a little heavy on the "divine intervention" influence on your life.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Quick Beer Reviews
I'm sitting in Federals finishing my beer after completing some work I forgot about before leaving the office this afternoon. (Tangent: I go to Federals to access the RTI system, instead of staying home, because RTI network and Road Runner can't communicate. At least that is what I tell Shannon...JK).
I tried 2 new beers this afternoon. One was good. One was horrible.
Good: Gateway Kolsch by French Broad Brewery. Always can trust an NC beer
Terrible: Censored IPA by Lagunitus Brewery CA. STAY AWAY...BAD BEER.
I tried 2 new beers this afternoon. One was good. One was horrible.
Good: Gateway Kolsch by French Broad Brewery. Always can trust an NC beer
Terrible: Censored IPA by Lagunitus Brewery CA. STAY AWAY...BAD BEER.
May Books
I read only 1 book, again, in May.
I must admit I started 2 others, but gave up after 100 pages. Sorry, I can't remember the titles or authors. Both were Sci-Fi so I doubt any of my loyal readers may accidentally choose these books.
The book I did read: Ice Limit by the esteemed duo of Lincoln Child and Douglas Preston. Why do I keep returning to this duo? Entertaining w/o the need for many IQ points is why.
This book was quite enjoyable until the last 30 pages. Good action, interesting characters, and just enough Sci-Fi to keep me hooked. The ending...well, let's just say their attempt to avoid being stereotypical was disappointing. If this book was made into a movie, the studio would develop 3 or 10 different endings and they all would leave the audience wondering "what?".
I must admit I started 2 others, but gave up after 100 pages. Sorry, I can't remember the titles or authors. Both were Sci-Fi so I doubt any of my loyal readers may accidentally choose these books.
The book I did read: Ice Limit by the esteemed duo of Lincoln Child and Douglas Preston. Why do I keep returning to this duo? Entertaining w/o the need for many IQ points is why.
This book was quite enjoyable until the last 30 pages. Good action, interesting characters, and just enough Sci-Fi to keep me hooked. The ending...well, let's just say their attempt to avoid being stereotypical was disappointing. If this book was made into a movie, the studio would develop 3 or 10 different endings and they all would leave the audience wondering "what?".
Tick-Tock
Okay. The wait is becoming excruciating! I can't focus at work, unless in a meeting or working on a crisis. I'm doing better now that I have a beer in hand while at Federals.
I do find reading takes my mind off the "wait." Other than that, I seem to be restless all the time. Fidgety, ADD symptoms, lack of concentration.....I suffer from them all.
It's kinda like how it was waiting to marry Shannon. I had an entire week to chill in Texas. The difference is I was able to hang with college friends and drink excessive amounts of beer. Can't do that now. My one fear is the girls coming after I've had a couple. I don't do well w/o much sleep....add a couple beers and see what happens. I'm sure the adrenaline will kick-in when the time comes.
Let's digress. Anyone ever wonder why I call Shannon by the nickname "Smohr". First, I had to give Shannon a nickname. It was a college tradition of mine (and I presume everyone elses....great idea for a blog entry if anyone needs a topic). Shannon was easy. Take her maiden name: Mohr. Add the "S" from Shannon and voila! By coincidence it also happens to be a homonym with the best camping treat of all time! Anyone remember Camp Chimichaunga, Chickamauga, or whatever that campground near San Diego was called (Cucamonga, I think)? Ahem, don't touch the red hot coat hangers used to roast the marshmallows!
Anyway, like all terms of endearment, the name stuck. Now it has reached the point where "Smohr" is used in everyday conversation. "Shannon" is only used when I'm upset with her. That doesn't happen very often, I might add.
Anyway, time to return home and play the waiting game.
I do find reading takes my mind off the "wait." Other than that, I seem to be restless all the time. Fidgety, ADD symptoms, lack of concentration.....I suffer from them all.
It's kinda like how it was waiting to marry Shannon. I had an entire week to chill in Texas. The difference is I was able to hang with college friends and drink excessive amounts of beer. Can't do that now. My one fear is the girls coming after I've had a couple. I don't do well w/o much sleep....add a couple beers and see what happens. I'm sure the adrenaline will kick-in when the time comes.
Let's digress. Anyone ever wonder why I call Shannon by the nickname "Smohr". First, I had to give Shannon a nickname. It was a college tradition of mine (and I presume everyone elses....great idea for a blog entry if anyone needs a topic). Shannon was easy. Take her maiden name: Mohr. Add the "S" from Shannon and voila! By coincidence it also happens to be a homonym with the best camping treat of all time! Anyone remember Camp Chimichaunga, Chickamauga, or whatever that campground near San Diego was called (Cucamonga, I think)? Ahem, don't touch the red hot coat hangers used to roast the marshmallows!
Anyway, like all terms of endearment, the name stuck. Now it has reached the point where "Smohr" is used in everyday conversation. "Shannon" is only used when I'm upset with her. That doesn't happen very often, I might add.
Anyway, time to return home and play the waiting game.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Nesting?
Shannon thinks I am nesting. According to the books, nesting is a behavior pregnant women exhibit to make sure they have their homes and lives in order before the chaos of raising children begins.
Maybe I am nesting. Maybe I am trying to selfishly squeezing as many of my favorite activities (within reason) into the final few days before Sophie and Jacqueline are born. Actually, what I am doing is not really selfish. I enjoy these activities, but Shannon & the pets benefit too. Shannon is very large & not very mobile. Combined with the pains from false labor, she is not the happiest camper in the world. As a good "coach", I need to keep her happy....usually with good meals, spending time with her, and allowing her to take it easy. The pets are acting kinda strange too. Not really strange like "Shannon is going into labor" strange, but they have been awfully needy. I figured I better spend time with them because they will feel neglected soon enough.
So what am I doing? Well, since last Saturday I have:
1. Selected several yummy recipes & went grocery shopping to get the ingredients. For whatever reason, I love grocery shopping and look forward to doing it so it is a "fun" activity.
2. Invited some neighbors to walk to the Farmer's Market on Saturday morning. We all took our dogs too, so Raven got to have a nice walk. While there, I purchased lots of fresh veggies to go with our meals. I really enjoyed myself and so did Raven.
3. Napped upstairs on the couch Saturday and Sunday afternoon with Raz & Tweedle.
4. Got my cooking fix satiated for the next couple weeks. I made calzones for the first time in my life. YUMMY! Shannon wasn't hungry that night, but we'll eat leftovers for dinner tomorrow. Also made steak & veggie quesadillas, veggie scrambled eggs & bacon, and pork tenderloin with sauteed kale.
5. Enjoyed some really good beer and port either by myself or with friends.
6. Made homemade chocolate chip ice cream. Shannon ate some ice cream even though she wasn't hungry.
7. Enjoyed sitting on the front porch enjoying a beer, talking with Shannon & eating the homemade ice cream, or listening to the thunderstorms.
8. Finished the spring yard work. Mulched the front. Planted tomatos (plants courtesy of Jon Cates, cages from Doug & Becky). Planted some nice flowers in an empty barrel along the driveway.
So, I don't think I am "nesting". Helping Shannon and spending as much time with the pets as much as possible before the girls are born is more like. I suppose I am distracting myself too. I am getting awfully excited.
Maybe I am nesting. Maybe I am trying to selfishly squeezing as many of my favorite activities (within reason) into the final few days before Sophie and Jacqueline are born. Actually, what I am doing is not really selfish. I enjoy these activities, but Shannon & the pets benefit too. Shannon is very large & not very mobile. Combined with the pains from false labor, she is not the happiest camper in the world. As a good "coach", I need to keep her happy....usually with good meals, spending time with her, and allowing her to take it easy. The pets are acting kinda strange too. Not really strange like "Shannon is going into labor" strange, but they have been awfully needy. I figured I better spend time with them because they will feel neglected soon enough.
So what am I doing? Well, since last Saturday I have:
1. Selected several yummy recipes & went grocery shopping to get the ingredients. For whatever reason, I love grocery shopping and look forward to doing it so it is a "fun" activity.
2. Invited some neighbors to walk to the Farmer's Market on Saturday morning. We all took our dogs too, so Raven got to have a nice walk. While there, I purchased lots of fresh veggies to go with our meals. I really enjoyed myself and so did Raven.
3. Napped upstairs on the couch Saturday and Sunday afternoon with Raz & Tweedle.
4. Got my cooking fix satiated for the next couple weeks. I made calzones for the first time in my life. YUMMY! Shannon wasn't hungry that night, but we'll eat leftovers for dinner tomorrow. Also made steak & veggie quesadillas, veggie scrambled eggs & bacon, and pork tenderloin with sauteed kale.
5. Enjoyed some really good beer and port either by myself or with friends.
6. Made homemade chocolate chip ice cream. Shannon ate some ice cream even though she wasn't hungry.
7. Enjoyed sitting on the front porch enjoying a beer, talking with Shannon & eating the homemade ice cream, or listening to the thunderstorms.
8. Finished the spring yard work. Mulched the front. Planted tomatos (plants courtesy of Jon Cates, cages from Doug & Becky). Planted some nice flowers in an empty barrel along the driveway.
So, I don't think I am "nesting". Helping Shannon and spending as much time with the pets as much as possible before the girls are born is more like. I suppose I am distracting myself too. I am getting awfully excited.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
The Grace of God
Well, I think that most everyone knows that we have now finally decided on Sophie's middle name. It will be Janina (pronounced Yanina...there is a "J" in the Polish alphabet, it is just said like a "Y") after my maternal grandmother.
Jon and I were at the doctor's office on Tuesday afternoon for our regular check-up. Dr. Swamy decided that she wanted to have a non-stress test (NST) done and was able to arrange for us to be worked in. Basically, I was hooked up with dopplers on my tummy to monitor the twins' heatbeats for a continuous 20-minute time period.
They had a baby name book there, so we were looking through it to look for "A" names for my sister and Mike. They don't know what they are having (i.e., boy or girl), but the Jewish tradition is to name the first baby born in the family after the last person who passed away in the family. The interesting part of the tradition is that you don't use the exact name, just the letter. The last person who passed away in the family was Mike's father, Alan...hence, they need an "A" name. Well, they are hard customers, and it is not as easy as you would think!!! They don't like any of the obvious, common ones (i.e., Andrew, Ashley, etc.); Aaron is Mike's middle name; we all liked Ariel, but Tara and Mike said that it reminded them of The Little Mermaid; likewise, we liked Aayden, but their good friends just named their son that; I thought that I had a flash of brillance and suggested Adrienne, but that got nixed since they live in Philly (too many "Yo, Adrienne, jokes"), etc. The conversation then degraded into silliness...how 'bout Atlas, Adonis, Aphrodite, etc., etc.
Anyway, I digress. We started out looking to help Tara and Mike and were quite impressed with this book. We couldn't resist looking up the girls' names and seeing if this book said something different than that which we had already found out. Not at all for Jacqueline, Carol, or Sophie. But, for the first time ever, we were able to find Janina. It turns out that it means "God has been gracious." Well, of course, I almost started to cry...
Now that I know this, I feel that Sophie is destined to be named Janina. Not only do I have such fond memories of my Babcia and am sometimes very sad that she passed away so early in my life (when I was a young teen), but I also believe that God has been gracious to us. Despite everything that has happened to us and how long things took and everything we had to endure to get to this point, we feel so incredibly blessed to have TWO beautiful, healthy girls coming into our lives soon. Although we knew we would be parents one way or another, we feel even more blessed to be able to go through pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, etc. ourselves. We know all too well that things could have turned out quite differently and not everyone is so blessed.
We pray that God will continue to be gracious to us and our little family. We pray that the Grace of God will shine down on all of our friends and family who continue to struggle with their journey to parenthood.
Jon and I were at the doctor's office on Tuesday afternoon for our regular check-up. Dr. Swamy decided that she wanted to have a non-stress test (NST) done and was able to arrange for us to be worked in. Basically, I was hooked up with dopplers on my tummy to monitor the twins' heatbeats for a continuous 20-minute time period.
They had a baby name book there, so we were looking through it to look for "A" names for my sister and Mike. They don't know what they are having (i.e., boy or girl), but the Jewish tradition is to name the first baby born in the family after the last person who passed away in the family. The interesting part of the tradition is that you don't use the exact name, just the letter. The last person who passed away in the family was Mike's father, Alan...hence, they need an "A" name. Well, they are hard customers, and it is not as easy as you would think!!! They don't like any of the obvious, common ones (i.e., Andrew, Ashley, etc.); Aaron is Mike's middle name; we all liked Ariel, but Tara and Mike said that it reminded them of The Little Mermaid; likewise, we liked Aayden, but their good friends just named their son that; I thought that I had a flash of brillance and suggested Adrienne, but that got nixed since they live in Philly (too many "Yo, Adrienne, jokes"), etc. The conversation then degraded into silliness...how 'bout Atlas, Adonis, Aphrodite, etc., etc.
Anyway, I digress. We started out looking to help Tara and Mike and were quite impressed with this book. We couldn't resist looking up the girls' names and seeing if this book said something different than that which we had already found out. Not at all for Jacqueline, Carol, or Sophie. But, for the first time ever, we were able to find Janina. It turns out that it means "God has been gracious." Well, of course, I almost started to cry...
Now that I know this, I feel that Sophie is destined to be named Janina. Not only do I have such fond memories of my Babcia and am sometimes very sad that she passed away so early in my life (when I was a young teen), but I also believe that God has been gracious to us. Despite everything that has happened to us and how long things took and everything we had to endure to get to this point, we feel so incredibly blessed to have TWO beautiful, healthy girls coming into our lives soon. Although we knew we would be parents one way or another, we feel even more blessed to be able to go through pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, etc. ourselves. We know all too well that things could have turned out quite differently and not everyone is so blessed.
We pray that God will continue to be gracious to us and our little family. We pray that the Grace of God will shine down on all of our friends and family who continue to struggle with their journey to parenthood.
Monday, May 26, 2008
My New Favorite Drink
Since we don't have any beer or wine (at least the kind I can drink w/o Shannon...have to save the good stuff) in the house, I was forced to rummage thru the cupboard and American Bartender to see what I could make to quaff my thirst. Cleaning up the yard and hauling mulch is hard work!
Nothing like a cold, crisp Mint Julep to enjoy while sitting on the front porch. Potent drink, too, that helps soothe the pain of very sore muscles. I had bourbon, mint, sugar cubes, and ice. A mortar-pestle would have been nice, but an ice cream scoop is a decent substitute.
Speaking of mint juleps, here is a true story from a Civil War trivia website. I also heard this story a couple years ago on NPR (where else?). I think I have become a true Southern gentleman.
The following is a copy of a letter from Lieutenant General Simon Bolivar Buckner, Jr., USA killed on Okinawa June 18, 1945] to Major General William D. Connor, Superintendent of the United States Military Academy at West Point, dated March 30, 1937. Buckner Jr. was the son of General Simon Bolivar Buckner of the Confederate army who surrendered Fort Donelson to General Grant, thus giving Grant his nickname of "Unconditional Surrender" Grant. This letter clearly demonstrates the esteem in which a "Mint Julep" is held.
Nothing like a cold, crisp Mint Julep to enjoy while sitting on the front porch. Potent drink, too, that helps soothe the pain of very sore muscles. I had bourbon, mint, sugar cubes, and ice. A mortar-pestle would have been nice, but an ice cream scoop is a decent substitute.
Speaking of mint juleps, here is a true story from a Civil War trivia website. I also heard this story a couple years ago on NPR (where else?). I think I have become a true Southern gentleman.
The following is a copy of a letter from Lieutenant General Simon Bolivar Buckner, Jr., USA killed on Okinawa June 18, 1945] to Major General William D. Connor, Superintendent of the United States Military Academy at West Point, dated March 30, 1937. Buckner Jr. was the son of General Simon Bolivar Buckner of the Confederate army who surrendered Fort Donelson to General Grant, thus giving Grant his nickname of "Unconditional Surrender" Grant. This letter clearly demonstrates the esteem in which a "Mint Julep" is held.
My Dear General Connor:
Your letter requesting my formula for mixing mint juleps leaves me in the same position in which Captain Barber found himself when asked how he was able to carve the image of an elephant from a block of wood. He said that it was a simple process consisting merely of whittling off the part that didn't look like an elephant.
The preparation of the quintessence of gentlemanly beverages can be described only in like terms. A mint julep is not a product of a formula. It is a ceremony and must be performed by a gentleman possessing a true sense of the artistic, a deep reverence for the ingredients and a proper appreciation of the occasion. It is a rite that must not be entrusted to a novice, a statistician nor a Yankee. It is a heritage of the Old South, and emblem of hospitality, and a vehicle in which noble minds can travel together upon the flower-strewn paths of a happy and congenial thought.
So far as the mere mechanics of the operation are concerned, the procedure, stripped of its ceremonial embellishments, can be described as follows:
Go to a spring where cool, crystal-clear water bubbles from under a bank of dew-washed ferns. In a consecrated vessel, dip up a little water at the source. Follow the stream thru its banks of green moss and wild flowers until it broadens and trickles thru beds of mint growing in aromatic profusion and waving softly in the summer breeze. Gather the sweetest and tenderest shoots and gently carry them home. Go to the sideboard and select a decanter of Kentucky Bourbon distilled by a master hand, mellowed with age, yet still vigorous and inspiring. An ancestral sugar bowl, a row of silver goblets, some spoons and some ice and you are ready to start.
Into a canvas bag pound twice as much ice as you think you will need. Make it fine as snow, keep it dry and do not allow it to degenerate into slush. Into each goblet, put a slightly heaping teaspoonful of granulated sugar, barely cover this with spring water and slightly bruise one mint leaf into this, leaving the spoon in the goblet. Then pour elixir from the decanter until the goblets are about one-fourth full. Fill the goblets with snowy ice, sprinkling in a small amount of sugar as you fill. Wipe the outside of the goblets dry, and embellish copiously with mint.
Then comes the delicate and important operation of frosting. By proper manipulation of the spoon, the ingredients are circulated and blended until nature, wishing to take a further hand and add another of its beautiful phenomena, encrusts the whole in a glistening coat of white frost. Thus harmoniously blended by the deft touches of a skilled hand, you have a beverage eminently appropriate for honorable men and beautiful women. When all is ready, assemble your guests on the porch or in the garden where the aroma of the juleps will rise heavenward and make the birds sing. Propose a worthy toast, raise the goblets to your lips, bury your nose in the mint, inhale a deep breath of its fragrance and sip the nectar of the gods. Being overcome with thirst, I can write no further.
Sincerely,
Lt. Gen. S.B. Buckner, Jr. VMI Class of 1906
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Beer Review #1
Shannon and I have blogged frequently about Sophie & Jacqueline. It's about time this blog lives up to the first word in the title! Jon hasn't had much time to taste many beers...wonder why! Shannon hasn't had any booze (obviously) in 9 months; although she thought about sipping one of my beers last weekend. Alas, she is still revolted by the smell.
So this is the first (of many, hopefully) beer reviews and other alcoholic beverage ramblings I will post.
Beer: Insanity Barely Wine from Weyerbacher Brewery, Easton PA
Available at Sam's Quik Shop (where else?).
Occasion: Sitting on front porch with Shannon on a beautiful Friday evening waiting for Sophie and Jacqueline to come.
First Impression: Gorgeous, intense burnt copper color with vanilla creme head. A very pretty beer to gaze at.
Aroma: Caramel & roasted nuts. Hint of dried fruit (apples?)
Body: Surprisingly smooth & light on the palate
Taste: Intensely smooth & rapid transition of flavors on the tongue. Starts with light, crisp malt then flavor gains a roasted feel before the toasted caramel dominates. Finishes with a crisp flavor of dried fruit with slight alcoholic bite.
Overall Impression: ABSOLUTELY SUPERB!!! One of the best beers I have had in a long time. I love how the flavors rocked my palate. It must be the aging in oak barrels (mentioned on the label).
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Finished!
So long Boss, knock 'em dead, don't worry 'bout a thing
Wish that we could come along, we'd love to see your two girls
The limo's here, your bags are packed, the list is by the phone,
Me and Snake will watch your place and treat it like our own
NOTHING LEFT TO DO BUT WAIT FOR THE GIRLS TO COME!
So what if the furniture is still the wrong color. That is someone else's problem!
Wish that we could come along, we'd love to see your two girls
The limo's here, your bags are packed, the list is by the phone,
Me and Snake will watch your place and treat it like our own
NOTHING LEFT TO DO BUT WAIT FOR THE GIRLS TO COME!
So what if the furniture is still the wrong color. That is someone else's problem!
Thursday, May 8, 2008
April Books
Only read 2 books in April while I was traveling. Another slow month because of nursery preparations. I suppose I should get used to it. Maybe I'll start posting baby books and nursery rhymes when the time comes.
Both books this month were by the duo Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child.
Book of the Dead turned out to be the last of a series of books set in the New York Museum of Natural History. Although the authors intend all their books to stand-alone, they did acknowledge this book was the last of a loosely linked series. I agree that you did not need to read the previous books first. However, there were some character development details that were glossed over because they probably were covered in previous books. I'd give the book 2 out of 5 stars. The story was ho-hum with made for Hollywood, unbelievable twists at the end.
Thunderhead was one of the loosely related books that I read. The lead character in this novel had a small role in Book of the Dead. This novel, set in the America Southwest, was a fun, entertaining book. I would recommend reading it. Interesting characters and an imaginative plot. Interestingly, though, the personality of the lead character changed substantially between Thunderhead and Book of the Dead. I don't think such a dramatic change would occur in real-life.
Both books this month were by the duo Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child.
Book of the Dead turned out to be the last of a series of books set in the New York Museum of Natural History. Although the authors intend all their books to stand-alone, they did acknowledge this book was the last of a loosely linked series. I agree that you did not need to read the previous books first. However, there were some character development details that were glossed over because they probably were covered in previous books. I'd give the book 2 out of 5 stars. The story was ho-hum with made for Hollywood, unbelievable twists at the end.
Thunderhead was one of the loosely related books that I read. The lead character in this novel had a small role in Book of the Dead. This novel, set in the America Southwest, was a fun, entertaining book. I would recommend reading it. Interesting characters and an imaginative plot. Interestingly, though, the personality of the lead character changed substantially between Thunderhead and Book of the Dead. I don't think such a dramatic change would occur in real-life.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Nursery
NIGHTSTAND
DRESSER
ARMOIREWell, the furniture for the nursery arrived 1 week ago. I supervised the delivery with mixed results. I successfully guided the deliverymen as they carried the furniture upstairs without destroying any walls or the bannister. However, I failed to note two BIG issues with the furniture itself.
1. The furniture was not painted properly. In fact, all 3 pieces had different color schemes. The nightstand was painted properly. The dresser and armoire were not. Can you tell the difference?
2. Notice anything about the armoire (besides the paint)? Does it look more like a dresser? Why yes, it does. The top, "wardrobe" portion of the armoire was either left on the truck by the deliverymen or was not shipped with the other pieces. Everyone, including me, saw 4 "pieces" on the manifest and 4 "pieces" were delivered. Oops!
I partly blame myself for not noticing these issues and rejecting the furniture. I should have noticed the color schemes did not match and the armoire top was missing. I should have asked Smohr to remind me of the details about what we were to recieve. Although, I was awfully excited to receive the furniture and happy the house did not get damaged.
Anyway, Shannon has talked with the store and called the manufacturer. We are not getting many answers. Our current best guess is the armoire and dresser will be replaced at no charge. I'm not sure what happened to the top half of the armoire. I keep forgetting to ask Shannon.
I would prefer the manufacturer just send someone with the new drawers and top to the dresser. There is no need to replace all the pieces, only the drawers and dresser top. The drawers are easy to swap. The dresser top is more difficult, but still much easier than carrying the old back downstairs and hauling the new, correct dresser upstairs.
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