Adventures of Mama-Dirtyfoot

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

2012-03-04T23:47:00.000-05:00

Lunch date - Me, Judy, Kathleen, Maryann

Today was a good "Girls Day". No matter how much we love our husbands and our kids, not much rejuvenates a woman's soul more than "girl time". Often, it is after these "girl moments" that I can go home, refreshed, and ready to be a better wife and a better mom. I am not quite sure how all of that happens....something in the hormones, maybe? David is, by far, my biggest supporter and my best friend and yet, we women just speak the same language and understand each others challenges. Today, I had an enjoyable lunch date with my cousin, Judy, (who lives here, locally), my cousin Maryann (who lives in Colorado) who I haven't seen in about 35 years and my cousin Michael's wife, Kathleen (who also lives in Colorado and who I met for the first time today). Despite just recently reconnecting with Judy, having been a lifetime since I saw Maryann and just meeting Kathleen, we shared stories and laughed so hard that my cheeks hurt.

Madeline was a happy girl! But what was she wearing?? What a first impression!!

Maybe the need for friends is ingrained in a woman from birth?? Since our move here, Madeline has made a few school friends.....but that is just what they are, school friends. She has had no real playmates outside of school. Aside from our brief visit back to Buffalo, Madeline has also been missing girl time. Today, when we were at the house, Madeline was playing outside, once again sledding down the slope in our backyard. Along came a little girl, Sarah. Sarah's family just relocated from Chicago. They are temporarily staying with the mom's parents (right next door!) while they look for a house. Sarah is also in kindergarten. Before long, Madeline and Sarah were sledding in the backyard together and eventually Madeline played for about a half-hour at Sarah's house where they had a great time playing Barbies.

Both Mama and Madeline needed this! We both enjoyed our girl time! And David was happy.....let's be honest, what man isn't happy when the women (big or small) living under the same roof are happy. I mean, really.....isn't life a little easier?? There has to be *some* truth to the saying, "If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy"! Rest assured, Mama (and daughter) are happy.

Who Let The Riff Raff In??

2012-03-04T02:02:00.000-05:00

Laundry Room (before). Although you can't see wallpaper border in this picture

First, I have to share a funny story. We already had the cops called to our new house! Okay, it was nothing *we* did, but still.... David was supposed to meet our tile/painter guy (Tom) at our house at 9am Thursday morning. Tom was a few minutes early so he parked in our driveway and sat there waiting for David. I can't imagine that he was there that long but the neighbors called the cops. I am still shaking my head about this one, not sure if I should be thrilled about vigilant neighbors or scared to death about busy bodies. Hmmmm.....time will tell, I guess.

Scared to death to start the border stripping

This strip came off in ONE piece!!

Laundry room border off, carpet pulled, sub-floor installed

Only a few more days left until the big move. The amount of "tag teaming" involved with me and David in this process is insanity. We take turns with "kid duty" when it comes to freeing up the each other in order to do some work around the house. It helps tremendously when Madeline is at school, however, Jonathan is not the sleeping little baby he was when we moved to Minnesota. Jonathan is now on more of a (fairly) regular nap schedule and when he is awake he requires a lot of attention. He is at the stage that if we walk out of the room for one minute he starts crying, while simultaneously being in the "everything going in the mouth" stage, "don't leave anything on the floor that isn't safe for him because he'll find a way to get it" stage, and the "even if you think a vacant room is safe, he'll still manage to get into something" stage (Jonathan had the ENTIRE sunken family room to roll around in and ended up rolling and wedging his head under the small corner of the step into the family room....geez!) Needless to say, it has taken the two of us to juggle our three ring circus so that we can accomplish even an ounce of work.

David painting pantry - has to install shelving (the last owners removed!)

Starting Madeline's Room

Madeline was literally squealing with delight in her new room

Despite our chaos, we are making some progress. Certainly not everything will be completed prior to moving in. We will still have a "to do" list and a wish list. Yet, we have begun to make some little changes to the house to help it feel like our own. One of the projects we are taking care of prior to the move is our laundry room. This sounds like something that should be lower on our priority list, and technically it is. Yet, the reality of the situation is that it makes more sense to accomplish the work prior to having our washer and dryer moved in an hooked up. We are having Tom (mentioned above) replace the carpet with tile. Also, since we are starting that, I think it also makes sense to paint the laundry room prior to the move and so, I needed to strip the wallpaper boarder. My close friends and family have to know how much I dreaded this! After the AWFUL wallpaper stripping experience in the dining room of our house in North Tonawanda I was just getting over the nightmares associated with that task (which was never completed by me, we had to hire a professional to finish the job). And because of the dining room disaster I was more than reluctant to ever strip the kitchen wallpaper boarder that I loathed in the same house. I was determined to make some progress and dug right into this project. A VERY pleasant surprise awaited me. I was ready to cry tears of joy when huge chunks of the laundry room border were able to be stripped off. Certainly I was thrilled in these large chunks because it allowed me to complete the task during one of Jonathan's nap.....but even more important is the fact that this validated that I am NOT insane! I do know how to strip wallpaper. It wasn't me, but rather the wallpaper in the house in NT.

More work on the pantry

We would also like to paint the inside of all the closets prior to our move. We all know how that goes....if it doesn't get done while the house is vacant, it will never get done. Realistically, we will have to be satisfied with making sure we paint the closets in the 3 upstairs bedrooms, laundry room and pantry. The remaining closets will have to wait until we paint the room in which they are located. In addition to painting the pantry and the master bedroom closet, David and I have to install the shelving units for these as the former owners of the house took the shelves with them when they moved.

Our painter, Tom, modeling our color choice

More wallpaper boarder stripping

New family room color after 1st coat

We also decided to have the family room and kitchen painted. It is being done by the same guy that is doing the laundry room tile. He too gets the lovely job of stripping wallpaper border (the prior owners LOVED their borders). In the world of decorating I know what I like when I see it OR if someone describes something, I can envision it. However, I just can't figure it out on my own. One of the hang ups I had about this house before buying it was that I wasn't crazy about the light colored cabinets in the kitchen. Our realtor, said that a darker wall color would make the cabinets pop and that she did that exact thing in a house she used to own. Once she said that, I was able to envision the look and get excited about the new color. Our realtor actually offered to take me to the paint store to get the paint color that she used. We browsed a number of colors together but ended up using the exact color our realtor had used in her house. On the day that the paint began to paint, I was at the laundromat (God, I can't wait to use my own washer & dryer again!) When I got back to the house, two walls had been painted. I may not have squealed like Madeline did when she saw her bedroom color, but I was probably pretty darn close!

Slowly, we are making this house our home. And certainly, all the time we have spent there recently has helped to make this house feel like our home....even before we move in. Aside from Madeline loving her new room color, she is already staking claim to the backyard. Madeline was very happy to explore in her new backyard while playing in the snow. Now we just need to have the conversation with her about not *purposely* sledding into a tree :-)

Moving Chaos Begins

2012-02-28T09:20:00.000-05:00

Our first meal at the house

On the evening of (Tuesday) 2/14, I ended up puking my guts out (yum!). I had to have caught whatever "bug" Madeline had on that Monday (2/13). Our closing date for our house purchase was Wednesday (2/15) morning with our final walk-thru inspection prior to the close. I woke up the morning of the close feeling like absolute crap. I was not sure how I was going to survive sitting through all the paperwork signing. On a day that should've been filled with excitement, I literally did not have the strength to do the final walk-thru. I laid on the floor of the family room, in the vacant house, as David completed the inspection. During the house closing, I signed my life away, not caring what I was signing but only caring about getting thru the process. I was disappointed that once the house was officially ours, I had no desire to go back to the house. Instead, I told David that there was absolutely no way I would survive "kid duty" and asked him to take the rest of the day off of work in order to cover the parental duties for the rest of the day. When we got home, I took my temperature and, sure enough, I was officially sick with a 101.5 fever. Whahhh!! What a way to start our time with this house. The crazy thing is that the very next morning I was a new person, however, David "caught the bug" and he was sick half of Wednesday (2/15) and Thursday (2/16). So much for getting work done in the house... When David started feeling better on Friday (2/17), he needed to get ready for his business trip to Japan. David left for Japan on Saturday 2/18 and did not return until Saturday 2/25. For all the above reasons, we barely stepped into our new home the first week-plus that we owned it. As much as I would've loved to start prepping for our move-in, I knew that I would only be frustrated to try to attempt productivity with 2 kids at my side.

Workplace Chaos!

Last night, David and I went to the house and tried to slowly make some progress. We figured we would have better luck if the two of us could "tag team" the kids. You have no idea how difficult it is to juggle house time for working around Madeline's school pick-up, homework, dinner, bedtime, etc. Throw into the mix an infant and we have a recipe for getting *nothing* done. Ugh!!! I can't thing about this.....all I know is that neither David nor I have enough hands or coloring books to occupy these children. It is so hard to function at times without the support system we had in New York. We did, however, enjoy our first meal in the house. A card table & chairs, a vinyl tablecloth, a rotisserie chicken & frozen microwave "steamers" vegetables and microwave rice (served on paper plates) was on the menu for the evening. Not exactly gourmet cooking but it was nice to start claiming the house as our own.....but, as far as the work department goes......I will be lucky to accomplish ANYTHING among all our chaos!

どうもありがとう (Domo arigato)

2012-02-27T12:15:00.000-05:00

My kimono (I know it is not tied properly)

Domo arigato is a Japanese phrase meaning "Thank you very much". Of course each time I hear this phrase, I feel the need to add "Mr. Roboto" after it and sing a Styx song. However, in this situation, its true meaning of gratitude is intended.

Madeline checking out some of the loot

Saturday (2/25), David returned from a week long business trip to Japan (Tokyo, Ibaraki City, & Osaka). After the two of us navigated communication with a 15 hour time difference and David traveled approximately 19 hours to get back, all of us in this household can easily say that we are happy that David is back. Of course an added bonus of David's travel is the suitcase of goodies that he brings home with him. No matter where he goes, David always remembers us in his travels. Often times, a larger trip such as Japan, China, Germany, etc brings extra special goodies.

Madeline couldn't wait to start coloring in her new Hello Kitty coloring book

David's "Certificate of Friendly Citizen" from Ibaraki City

David really does not have to go all out. I would be very happy with just a small "I was thinking of you" token gift. In fact, I always tell him to not go crazy bringing stuff home and typically scold him for too much stuff when he returns. Regardless, it is still fun to have a suitcase of goodies and, quite honestly, I think David enjoys giving us the goodies as much as we enjoy receiving them.

Loose tea, Tokyo bananas(?), green tea Kit Kats (?!) & coffee in a can (common way to get your coffee, out of a vending machine, in Japan)

From Japan, Mama-Dirtyfoot was given a kimono. Better than the kimono was the story of David trying to work with the Japanese ladies to figure out what he needed to purchase for this ensemble. I won't name or list all the goodies we received but there were many. Some of the highlights were (aside from the kimono) origami paper kits, unique stationary (I *love* unique stationary), gift cloths (the Japanese use them to wrap gifts in) chopstick training kit for Madeline, sweet treats, wine, sake, Japanese baseball team wear for Madeline, Japanese baseball blanket for Jonathan, wooden puzzle for Jonathan, sandal socks (all the rage in Japan) for me & Madeline, Hello Kitty stuff for Madeline. Yes, you can say that we are very spoiled. But, without a doubt, the absolute best gift we got from Japan was David coming home, and the entire family being together again!

Bringing home some booze (two of those are gifts for others)

The BEST part of the evening, David was able to read Madeline her bedtime story

Movie Night

2012-02-25T11:07:00.000-05:00

Fire started, waiting for the feature presentation (The Smurfs) to start.

When David travels, in particular when his travel spans a long period of time or spans over the course of a weekend, it can be difficult to be the jack-of-all trades "single mom". It gets to a point where everything is a bit more difficult. Why??...maybe because I get tired and lose a little steam from holding down the fort. Weekends are the most difficult and I claim victory on these days if everyone survives in one piece.

Shrimp Po Boy & fries.

Last night was our last evening before David comes home. He has been in Japan since last Saturday. In addition to attempting a low key late evening (in hopes that Madeline would sleep a little longer on Saturday), I just wanted to do something a little different than our normal evening.

Mesmerized by the movie, I had to keep reminding Madeline to eat while she was watching.

We decided to have a movie night. We changed into our PJ's early (BONUS!!) and ate dinner in front of the TV (which we NEVER do). I made fish stick po boys (not exactly a household 1st choice but it was a Friday during Lent, so..no meat.) and french fries. We had a fire in the fireplace and watched the movie "The Smurfs". Madeline is very sensitive with scary parts on TV. Although I didn't think the movie was particularly scary, I ended up with her sitting on my lap for half of the movie.

My two kids snuggled with me as the movie played

We had a great night together and I almost considered a "slumber party" (allowing her to sleep in my bed for the last night that David was away) but then thought better of it.....I didn't want to be kicked by a sleeping 6-year old all night.

Shuffle Off To Buffalo

2012-02-24T23:56:00.001-05:00

Jonathan's 1st plane ride. He did great!

Madeline is an old pro at flying

Ahhhh!! Tim Hortons

For the first time in over 4 months, my family and I were back in the city I called home for 41 years. We traveled back to Buffalo for a much needed family getaway. Although Buffalo, and all those I love there, are ALWAYS on my mind, the timing of this particular trip was prompted as a result of the fact that David was receiving a special recognition award from a NY commercial realtors association. The award was for David's work in partnering with them with regards to economic development in the WNY region. Funny, this organization used to HATE were David used to work. The commercial realtors inaccurately looked as David (and were he worked) as competition rather than a partnership asset that would assist the realtors in closing deals. David worked very hard in fostering a relationship with a professional group that wanted to run David (and were he worked) out of town. I have attend several of these awards dinners with David in the past. In fact, I was there at some of the first ones David attended when the speakers would literally say, "Let's put them (David's former work) out of business". Endless lunches, speaking engagements, eventually getting elected to their board of directors and ultimately working collaboratively on creating WNY's first commercial MLS had helped the commercial realtors work to meet the needs of their commercial clients while simultaneously helping David work with businesses in meeting their needs as well. Think of what David did in Buffalo as being the Julie McCoy (Love Boat cruise director) of attracting business to WNY, that is, organizing all the players to work together to get a business to the region - real estate, government agencies for tax incentives, universities for work force, etc, etc, etc. Without the commercial realtors on board, WNY was missing out on some great leads and David worked very hard to tap into those leads for himself, the realtors, and ultimately the economic developmental success of the WNY region. Ultimately, his hard work in fostering these relationships is what was being recognized with this award. Although this award dinner is what prompted us to book flights, this was only one piece of our stay in Buffalo. It really was a whirlwind trip!

Merry-Go-Round at Boulevard Mall (Jonathan's 1st)

Mmmmm - Charlie the Buthcer

We arrived on Wednesday (2/8) night. The father of our friend, Kelly, was out of town at the time we were visiting. They were gracious enough to let us stay at their home - and OMG, they had the MOST comfortable bed in the world!! I was able to see Kelly for a little bit on Wednesday night as we got settled into her dad's house but, it was late and we were all pretty tuckered out.

Awards dinner

As we sat on the plane, prior to take-off in Minneapolis, David says, "Ohhhh....this is not going to work. I hope this doesn't interfere with our trip." Huh??? His tooth was bothering him. A man being a man, the tooth was bothering David for several days and he didn't mention it until that moment. On Wednesday evening, when David drank some cold water, he nearly went through the roof. And so, our Thursday (2/29) morning involved a trip to the dentist. Madeline and I were happy to make a stop at a Tim Horton's for breakfast while David was at his appointment. After "tooth time", we had a little bit of time to make some other stops. We went to the Boulevard Mall because I *needed* a new BFLO car magnet for my van. I must've lost my other one in a car wash. This also gave Madeline some time to run around like a monkey at the mall's play area. A trip to Buffalo also means getting our fill of Buffalo foods. For lunch on Thursday we headed to Charlie the Butcher for a Beef on Weck. After lunch, we headed over to the cemetery to visit Mom & Dad. Next, off to downtown Buffalo to David's old office. David worked there for 8 years. After that amount of time, seeing his former co-workers was like seeing family. After a nice visit we took the half-hour drive back north to get ready for the awards dinner.

David and his award. It is a buffalo that has some mirrored glass, therefore I now call it the "disco buffalo".

It was around Christmastime when we knew we were going to travel to Buffalo in February. At that time we figured that we would be *much* overdue for some Mama/Papa time, and so we contacted our NY babysitters and arranged for them to sit with the kids each night we were in town. Mama and Papa were thrilled with the idea of some time away while Madeline was also thrilled to see both Sarah and Molly. After returning from our visit at David's old workplace, we basically had enough time to get changed and fill in the sitters on baby care (their 1st time with Jonathan) before we had to drive back downtown for the awards dinner. The awards dinner was nice. David and I often comment that we are currently living in a region of over 3 million unfamiliar faces. Although I knew a handful of people at the dinner, a good majority of those in attendance we mere acquaintances for me. However, it was so refreshing to be in a roomful of familiar faces. We literally could not get across the room because one person after the other stopped us to talk to David. What a good feeling that must've been for David. I was so proud of him!

Jonathan and Aunt Vicky

Madeline loved the hair accessories from her cousin Christina (brought to Bflo by Uncle Marty & Aunt Vicky)

Kelly & Me (with Madeline) before the girls' dinner

Girls' dinner. LOVE my friends!

Kym, Mary, Me and Jen out after dinner

Jen is short enough for us to use her shoulders as a boob rest!

Although we were away from Buffalo for over 4 months, it felt as though we simply returned from a long vacation. We jumped right back into the swing of things as though we still lived there. The trip was good for us for many reasons but one of the positives was that I was able to appreciate some of the things that Minnesota has to offer. However, with that also came the "Damn! I wish Minnesota had this!" On Friday morning, we drove around some of our old stomping grounds. We drove past our first house in Wheatfield and the house that we just moved out of in North Tonawanda. It wasn't until we did the North Tonawanda drive-by that I got that awful "someone died" feeling in the pit of my stomach that one gets when they are completely homesick. How does one feel better? A trip to Tim Horton's, of course! We ended up going to the Tim Horton's that they were still building when we moved. It was walking distance from our old house. Next, a NECESSARY Wegmans visit. This is essential for any Buffalo expatriate as food selection and grocery shopping experience is not the same elsewhere. We stocked up on so many Buffalo goodies that we needed a cooler (Thanks Aunt Sue) to bring things home. Friday, my brother, Marty, and sister-in-law, Vicky drove to Buffalo from central Pennsylvania. I already had made plans with some girlfriends for a girls' night out so David and the kids did dinner with Marty and Vicky while I did dinner with the gals. In the evening, one of our sitters came over and David, Marty and Vicky were able to meet us out for a few drinks.

Me, Madeline, Uncle Tom and Jonathan at Aunt Sue's house

Uncle Tom and Jonathan

Beautiful table setting for brunch

Marty. Heidi, & Vicky

Madeline, David, Aunt Sue, Uncle Ron, Uncle Tom, Aunt Mary Grace, Marty & Vicky

Uncle Marty & Jonathan

On Saturday morning, we took an hour ride south of where we were staying to go to brunch at my aunt's house. Aunt Sue is the most awesome entertainer. Not only does conversation and laughter flow easily at her house but she also is a phenomenal cook and goes all out to add all the little touches in presentation. At Aunt Sue's we were able to visit with her, my Uncle Ron, Uncle Tom, Aunt Mary Grace, my brother Marty & sister-in-law Vicky. We shared a delicious brunch and great conversation but the visit ended too quickly. Next on the agenda was a play date for Madeline (okay for me too as the moms are my MOMS club friends). Back in the car for an hour drive north. David dropped me and the kids off to play so he could pick up two large La Nova Pizzas for us to freeze and take home (Pizza sucks in Minnesota!) It was nice to visit more with Kym and Mary but Madeline was just beside herself with the opportunity to play with her friends, Dani and Michellynn. She had so much fun. Although Madeline is getting along socially in school, she is missing out on friendships. Madeline was just as much in need of friend time as Mama was. It was so nice to see the kids pick up exactly where they left off. After a fun play date, back in the car for a 20 minute drive to the house where we once again met up with our sitters and got freshened up for a night out. Once more, back in the car for a half-hour drive to Buffalo for a Buffalo Sabres hockey game. We were invited to attend the game in a suite. From all the running around of the day we were running a few minutes late. One of our favorite parts of going to a Sabres game is the pregame stuff. We zoomed into the arena just as they were starting the pregame. We knew we would miss it all if we tried to make it up to the suite and so we ducked into the "100 level" of the arena to watch. During the pregame, there is a HUGE Sabres flag that is passed along the crowd and makes its way around the entire arena. Just by dumb luck and good timing, we peeked into the 100 level just as the flag was coming our way. David and I were able to be under the flag and help move it along. What a special treat for our visit back home! After the pre-game, we headed up to the suite to enjoy the game. The evening would have only been better if the Sabres had one that night.

Madeline, Michellynn, & Dani

Christian, Michellynn, Dani, Madeline & Jonathan (missing from picture: Dani's brother Jack)

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun - Michellynn, Madeline & Dani

Sunday we had to head home. Thank GOD for Kelly and Hailey for coming over. If it weren't for their visit and their help occupying the kids, I think we would still be in the midst of packing! There is no doubt, we know how to land with a splat! Prior to heading to the airport, we were able to make it to Mass at our old parish. What good food for the soul! David and I miss our church and will hopefully find a parish with which we feel comfortable here in Minnesota. After two unsuccessful attempts, we admittedly stopped our efforts, however, we hope to have better luck after moving to a new neighborhood when we move into our house.

Best way to watch a Sabres game - in a suite, pigging out on Buffalo wings & weck while drinking a Canadian beer.

Our visit to Buffalo was such a mood booster for me! I loved every second of seeing friends and family. The unfortunate thing, however, is that we were spread so thin trying to see everyone. We made "touch and go landings" with everyone. Although, I do not regret any second of the time we were there or time spent with family and friends, I feel as though I didn't get to spend enough time with any one person. Call me greedy, but I wanted my fill of everyone. Instead, I guess you can say I was left hungry for a little more. Already I am trying to figure out the next time I'll be able to get back. Due to the expense involved and other obligations here (David's job, Madeline's school, setting up a home after we move into our house, etc) and other travel obligations already set for this year, I am not sure when I will be able to return to Buffalo. Even if it means I make a quick mama weekend get-away, I will try to get back as soon as I can. In the meantime, I am not too proud to beg for visitors. Our new house (moving in March 9th) will have a very private guest room. We have always LOVED to entertain house guests while we lived in Buffalo and will appreciate visitors even more in Minnesota. The more the merrier!! Whether you want to see a baseball game or a hockey game, go shopping at the Mall of America, party at Howl at the Moon or just get into trouble together, we would love if you visit!! Until that time, either in Buffalo or here, I will think fondly of the time we did share this month.

Happy Presidents Day?? - Oh, wait, I am late for that too!

2012-02-23T23:33:00.049-05:00

Visit with Santa at Mall of America

I used to be really good about making a blog post almost everyday. Now, I guess you can say I am a huge slacker. I love so much about my blog - the ability to share pictures, stories of my day, etc, with friends and family living near and far. I guess I will blame Facebook (Uncle Charles and Merl - you *must* get a Facebook account!) for my lack of blogging. Why?? In the matter of seconds I can share what is on my mind (and I do, at times, to excess). Videos and photos can be uploaded instantly while in the midst of the chaos of my day. If you every have any question what Mama-Dirtyfoot is up to at any given second, just log into Facebook and there you will see. The convenience of communication with friends and family is amazing!! So why then am I continuing my blog?? Well, although Facebook now has a "Timeline" feature, I prefer the format of this diary of our lives. Often times I'll click onto my blog to just browse pictures of our life, in a chronologial order. Or I may take a peek to reference a particular event or timeframe in our family history. And so, despite being a bit slower these days with my posts (an additional child in the mix also makes posting time more limited), my desire is to continue to update.

Bloody Mary lunches during sisters' shopping weekend

In the past, this blog's title may have read "Christmas Recap" and it would've been dated December 26th. Christmas came and went, as did New Year's. My "grand" idea was to then title my post "Happy Year of the Dragon", however the Chinese New Year came and went too. Ahhhh...President Day!!! Wait, that was 3 days ago!! Heck, you get the picture.

Sisters, matching PJs and egg nog. What more could we ask for??? Oh, yeah, Anthony Bourdain!

Real tree! Christmas in the house rental.

This was a strange Christmas. Our first in Minnesota. Our normal traditions were in play, although in December we had only been in Minnesota for a couple of months. We were (and continue) trying to get in our own groove here. I was thrilled that my annual sisters Christmas shopping weekend was in Minnesota this year (also, well documented on Facebook....but, damn!! I never blogged about it). Having family visit helped build memories here....and Christmas shopping with my sisters at the Mall of America didn't hurt either! Yet, all the "comforts of home" were not as comfortable. I am still trying to get accustomed to grocery shopping here, and so, shopping for holiday meals made me feel like a fish out of water. We are still in temporary housing, and so the comfort level of our residence is not where it has been in the past. Also, knowing that we will be moving again in the near future, half of our things are still in boxes. China, fancy serving dishes, and the like remain unpacked. This Christmas was a year of transition, however, for the kids, we did the best we could. Although Jonathan didn't really know any different, it WAS his first Christmas, while Madeline is in the height of her Santa years.

Table set

Our old house in North Tonawanda, NY had a family room with a cathedral ceiling. We have a 9 foot artificial tree that worked perfectly in that room. There was no way that tree would work in our house rental. Good news - this was the first time since shortly after David and I got married that we had a real tree. THAT was a definite bonus to this year.

Our china was in boxes this year and so, things were a bit more casual for our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners. I really missed some of our non-china sentimental pieces that normally share our company at the Christmas dinner table, however, the BONUS to no China is that all our everyday plates that we used are dishwasher safe!

Christmas dinner - 2011

I did miss the familiarity of our old parish church in NY. We have not found a church that we like here yet. My thoughts on worship: Matthew 6:6. And so, I am not feeling the whole mega-church "let's make a name tag for you" atmosphere of the parishes here. THIS aspect of our lives David and I miss very much and, therefore, Christmas Mass was not quite as fulfilling for us as in years past. This, however, is an "issue" for us for 2012.

The day after Christmas was no different than
many years past. We got in the car and traveled to Indiana. The only difference was this year we had to travel east instead of west. Unfortunately, I do have the bad habit of not taking enough pictures while in Indiana. It was, however, great to have Grandma and Grandpa see the kids.

Cookies for Santa

2011 was a year filled with amazing amounts of transition for the entire family. We are still trying to catch our breath from everything. Pregnancy & the birth of Jonathan, crazy amounts of business travel for David, David switching jobs....out of state, Madeline becoming a sister, Madeline starting kindergarten, selling our home, moving over 900 away from friends, Madeline starting a *new* kindergarten, house hunting....Yep, we were busy! Luckily, all of our transitions in 2011 were a result of good fortune, regardless we had mixed emotions about seeing the end of the year marked on New Years. We were, however, ready for the kids to go to bed that night! Luckily they are still young enough to fake out and so we set the clocks ahead, celebrated our fake New Year, put the kids to bed and David and I shared a quiet evening together. But the kids and the season exhausted us. We were not able to stay awake until midnight.....can we get partial credit for staying up until midnight in Eastern Standard Time??

Treats for reindeer

Santa came

All in all we had a great Christmas and New Years. I am, however, looking forward to moving into our new house and making it a home.

Jonathan enjoying his first Christmas!

Theme for the year - "Stay Warm In Minnesota" gifts. This hat is from my brother Chris. David said, "laugh all you want but it is the warmest hat ever"!

Jonathan slept most of the way to/from Indiana and Madeline was mesmerized by movies...yeah!

"Look, Mama! I am making Jonathan look grumpy!"

A Vikings jersey and a Bumpo seat - Jonathan is ready to watch some football!

While at Grandpa's, Madeline felt the need to create and add lips to her "Doctor Drill and Fill" Play Doh set from Uncle Ed

Jonathan slept well at Grandpa's

You can tell Madeline goes to a Catholic School. Madeline created this Mary costume when she was playing.

I was well stocked with Buffalo goodies from my friends. Thanks!!

Madeline was so excited to give me the "Mother"/"Daughter" heart necklaces that she picked out for me.

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T00:00:00.004-05:00

Whether you have been naughty....

Madeline and Jonathan - "Naughty"

Or Nice.......


Madeline and Jonathan - "Nice"

From our family to yours......

Madeline

Jonathan

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and nothing but love, health, wealth and happiness in 2012.

David, Amy, Madeline and Jonathan

Almost Home

2011-12-24T02:12:00.000-05:00

House - Round 2

For those of you that regularly follow my blog, you will know that we previously placed a bid in on a house. As it turned out, there were multiple bidders on that house. Evidently, we weren't the highest bidder and so we lost the first house we bid on. No problem....obviously that house was not meant to be ours and so, we went back to the drawing board. We continued to keep our eyes open for new listings and reconsidered some houses that we previously viewed. After another look, David and I decided that we wanted to bid on a house that we had previously seen.

We placed our offer. The house is a foreclosure that has been on the market for a long time. As a result, we came in very low with our offer (what the heck, right?). After very little negotiations with the bank, our offer was accepted. We are extremely lucky that we are able to take advantage of a "perfect storm" in the home buying world. Interest rates are super low, the MSP market has hit rock bottom (we hope), we are buying a house in winter and the house is a foreclosure that has been on the market a long time. We were able to get the deal of a lifetime.

My family and friends that have been our cheerleaders throughout this entire relocation process have been anticipating more info/pictures of the house. And so, I have included them in this blog post. The next step is our home inspection on December 30th. Assuming all goes well in that department, we would close on the house approximately February 15th. The house has very private "guest quarters" and so, I look forward to visitors who will help build memories and thus, make this house a home.

A view from the family room

Bar in the basement

Part of the rec area in the basement. Not sure if this would be a TV area or a kids' play area

A view from the family room into the dining room

Foyer

Foyer - looking into kitchen and to 2nd floor

Family room

Bathroom in the basement (guest area)

Guest bedroom

Guest bedroom.....we'll even furnish it with a bed so, come and visit!!

One of the kids' rooms

Kitchen (open area in island is a space for a wine fridge)

Development's lake is cleared off for ice skating (a much larger lake is just around the corner and is supposedly good for fishing)

Laundry room

Bathroom off of master bedroom

Entrance into master bedroom

Master bedroom

Upstairs hall - I am walking out of bathroom. Another kids' room to right

Work area on 2nd floor

Backyard

Happy Thanksmas!

2011-12-22T23:48:00.004-05:00

Jonathan's First Thanksgiving

Thanksmas?!?! That's right, the combination of Thanksgiving and Christmas! Yes, I did it again. Even though I promise myself that I will not take so long between blog posts, this seems to be a regular occurrence for me. Where on Earth do the hours in a day go??? So much is going on in our life right now. I simply want to keep this blog updated because it is a great diary/time stamp for me and my family. I often refer back to my blog as a reference or to simply just reminisce. Therefore, I need to just catch up before my diary of the adventures of Mama-Dirtyfoot are too far behind that they are too far gone for blogging. Doing so will hopefully (gosh, I hope not wishful thinking) motivate me to blog more regularly. My kids are getting so big, so quickly and I do not want their childhood undocumented.

Our life has been busy since we've moved here. Aside from getting
acclimated to a new area, unpacking (if only temporarily) in our house rental, settling Madeline in kindergarten, and house hunting, we have also celebrated Thanksgiving (Jonathan's first!), enjoyed the annual sisters' Christmas shopping weekend (this time not in Baltimore, but rather right here in the Twin Cities) and got busy with Christmas preparations (Jonathan's first Christmas too). I have a lot of pictures and this blogging program is a PAIN for moving and rearranging pictures in the blog text. So, in order to make things quick and get me on the road to an updated blog, I will simply load the pictures here. How ever they load will be the order in which they will be seen in this post (not necessarily in chronological order) Hopefully my photo captions will fill in the gaps of what has gone on since I last blogged. Enjoy......

Madeline is so proud that she now lost her SECOND tooth!

Jonathan doesn't mind tubby time - he is also learning about splashing.

Tub time over and nice & warm in robe from Aunt Sue

I was busy making dinner and asked Madeline to play with her brother. She buried him in toys!

Licking the bowl clean after helping Mama make pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving

Jonathan modeling an adorable penguin outfit from his cousin Becky

Gobble, gobble, gobble - getting in the Thanksgiving mood

A very lazy Thanksgiving day

A Thanksgiving dinner in our Minnesota house rental

Madeline is in the Thanksgiving spirit

We made our first trip to the Mall of America. There is an amusement park in the center!!

Getting silly at the MOA

Madeline and I rode rides at the mall. So glad we saved the water flume for the last ride before we left the mall - we got soaked!

The kids get a meaningful ornament each year.

Marysia and Margaret visited in the beginning of December. Bloody Mary lunches at the Mall of America were the theme.

Matching PJs were also the theme

The 3 sisters met our cousin, Judy, for dinner. Judy lives only 40 minutes away.

Jonathan just before he tried cereal for the first time

Jonathan is diggin' the cereal and baby foods.

Madeline is an AWESOME big sister!

Madeline thought this hat and the restaurant she got it (Dicks Last Resort) was hysterical.

Jonathan is flirting with his mama.

Madeline joined Daisies - she loves it

Madeline was playing dress up in her room and came downstairs dressed up like Mary.

Madeline was being naughty in the car. I told her that the green light on my rear-view mirror meant that the "Santa-cam" was on and Santa was watching her at that exact moment. Her behavior changed immediately.

Our first Christmas in Minnesota

Visit with Santa

Ugh, I think I waited until Jonathan was too hungry before trying food.

Madeline is LOVING our membership to the Minnesota Children's Museum. David took the kids when my sisters were visiting.

Madeline at the Children's Museum. This also represents Madeline's speed in getting ready in the morning on school days.

Papa took the kids to the Holidazzle parade (large (almost) daily Christmas parade) in downtown Minneapolis

I love this picture. Jonathan looks like such a little dude.

The first time we attempted a visit with Santa he was just on his way out to dinner. He was gracious enough to stop for us.

Since we haven't set up with a sitter yet, our idea of a date is for David and I to occasionally go to breakfast after dropping Madeline at school. Although we still have a 4 month old in tow it is as close to a date as we can get right now

Ahhhhh.....

2011-11-14T23:20:00.001-05:00

So, I do not have here, in Minnesota, friends for me to enjoy a girls' night out. No MOMS Club MNO (Moms Night Out), no book club, no ice cream dates with Tammy, no scrap booking crops with Kelly & Debbie, no dinners with grade school friends, no lunches/dinners with former accounting or teaching co-workers.

Also, I do not have a babysitter here yet. Therefore, no kid-free nights on the town with David. No movie nights, no romantic dinners, no painting the town red. This has now changed to restaurants with kids meals printed on paper activity placemats or lunch at a McDonalds that has a "Play Place".

It has been almost two months without a Mama's kid-free get-away (no counting a hair cut/color) and except for a couple hours in September to attend a work sponsored going away party for David, no alone time with David. Before the going away get together, David and I have not been kid free since the beginning of July. Also, David and I used to retreat to the hot tub in our old house. Fall is perfect hot tub weather but no hot tub here. It has been almost two months since the last time we enjoyed our hot tub in NY. Throw in the stress of a new baby, a relocation half-way across the country, managing big-time transitions for Madeline (not to mention the rest of us), house hunting and living in much "closer quarters" with everyone while in this house rental and you have a recipe for the need to get away.

No friends? No babysitter? That's okay.....Calgon take me away! Hot bubble bath, cell phone to chit chat with friends, a Travel magazine to read while dreaming of travel to an exotic locale and (thanks, David, for bringing this upstairs) some "Mommy's Time Out" wine.

Ahhhhh.....MUCH better!

And So We Wait....

2011-11-13T23:11:00.000-05:00

David and I are desperately trying to get ourselves settled here in Minnesota. Despite being in denial about living in Minnesota, I have begun to give in to the fact that I am here - if not for good, at least until David is ready to climb that next step on his career ladder. It is time then, to try to dig our heels in and call this place "home". Both David and I *hate* our house rental.....but what do you expect when we rent a house sight unseen over the internet (due to my pregnancy). David and I are craving a sense of stability so I can only imagine to what degree things are affecting Madeline.

Today, David and I put in an offer on a house. I am sharing a picture of the house, knowing full well that I may be premature in doing so. I also, however, know that I have many friends who are our cheerleaders back in Buffalo - not to mention the friends and family in other parts of the country. Our "cheerleaders" have been very supportive and are very curious as to how we are doing in our new city. Yes, this may very well be premature, but for my friends/family, who have ridden this wild ride with us thus far, I know that you would be disappointed if I *didn't* share.

So, above is a picture of the house we placed an offer on, however, we may not know if this offer will be accepted or not for several days. Days????? Yes, days because the house is a foreclosure house and we will be negotiating the deal with the bank that currently owns the house. To make the deal trickier, we are aware that the house and some other items inside the house need to be repaired. This too will effect the negotiations. Certainly we are hoping that the final price will reflect the repairs that need to be made.

Yes, work needs to be done inside however we love the house, the floor plan, the space it offers, as well as the back yard. Yet, David and I cannot get sucked in. We have to think with our heads/not hearts in the negotiation process. Although I could easily get excited about the house, I am keeping my cool. A lot still needs to be negotiated and I realize that this will all happen only if it is meant to be (and YES, I do believe in fate).

It is hard not to be excited. If negotiations go the way I hope, our family will soon be on our way to stability. And....if things do not go the way I hope, I will still have gained from the experience - the opening of my mind to make Minnesota my new home and a giant step in accepting my new life. I do believe, "whatever will be will be".......but until I know what "will be", I dream.

Cousins Reunite

2011-11-11T01:15:00.002-05:00

My cousin, Judy, looks great.
Me??....I look about 800 pounds in this picture - ugh!!

When David and I made the big decision to move to Minnesota, many people's first question was, "Do you have family there"? My answer was a yes..... (notice the dot, dot, dot?? ) The " ........" always included an explanation. By complete coincidence, my cousin Judy, lives a 40 minute drive away from where I currently live. The glitch, however, is that it has been at least 30 years since we have seen each other! How on earth does that happen??? Actually, quite easily.

My Aunt Maryann (my mom's sister) & Uncle Bob had relocated out of Buffalo when their kids were young. Keep in mind that times were different then. Families didn't simply just hop on a plane to visit each other on a regular basis. My mom was raising a family of 6 and my Aunt Maryann was raising a family of 3 so they couldn't just hop in a car and drive 14 hours to visit on a regular basis. Even phone calls were pricier then.....when was the last time anyone worried about long distance? And email/Facebook was nonexistent. We wrote letters! Although we didn't see each other very much as kids I always LOVED the occasions that Aunt Maryann, Uncle Bob and cousins, Michael, Judy and Maryann came into town. We always had a great time together. However, once the cousins departed, the miles once again got in between us.

Life goes on, we each grow up, get married, have children, etc, etc. Fast forward to present day and the existence of Facebook. Long lost friends, former neighbors or co-workers, old classmates.....and in this situation, cousins, reconnect. It has been nice to get to know my cousins again through status updates and friendly banter on Facebook. It has been a blessing to come together again, albeit virtually, through Facebook. When David and I made the decision to move to the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, I reached out to Judy over a Facebook message with the, "Exactly *where* do you live??" question (her siblings have since relocated out of MN, to Colorado). Prior to moving here, Judy had offered great guidance by answering numerous questions about the various areas that surround the Twin Cities (Keep in mind, I was super pregnant during much of the time David and I were planning our relocation and therefore was not able to travel here prior to our actual move) and we promised to get together once I arrived.

Finally things have settled down a tad since David and I stepped foot in Minnesota. Today, Judy and I (& Jonathan - Madeline was at school) were able to get together for coffee. A two hour chat *flew* by. It was nice to catch up with each other - get to know each other as adults. Heck, last time Judy saw me I was the bratty little kid that was the baby of my family. (Ok, I *still* am....I guess things haven't changed that much.) It was nice to catch up on each other's siblings. It was nice to talk about our moms and our grandparents. It was nice to chat about our kids. Most importantly, it was nice to lay down that foundation of friendship that, due to circumstances/distance, we missed in our youth.

Today, Judy and I grabbed a nice corner both at Starbucks. Good thing - we needed that extra space because, without a doubt, our moms sat there with us this morning. This morning, cousins reunited. This morning, our moms listened, watched and smiled.

Happy 6th Birthday!

2011-11-07T17:57:00.000-05:00

Our room's balcony overlooked the waterpark

Madeline's birthday was November 4th. I can't believe that our little girl is 6!! Where is the time going?? I am a big believer in making a big deal about one's birthday.....be it my birthday (although more difficult to acknowledge as I get older), David's birthday, my kids' birthdays or a friend's birthday, I believe that a birthday is one's special day. I initially planned to throw Madeline a birthday party with her playmates, however, since relocating moved us far away from her friends and her birthday was too close to our arrival in Minnesota for her to make new friends to invite to a party here, we had to make other celebration plans. David and I decided to celebrate Madeline's birthday in, as Madeline would call it, a "sparkly hotel" - that is, a hotel with an indoor water park. Since Madeline is a little fish when it comes to the water, the water park was a good day of fun.

Madeline and Jonathan ready for water fun

The Waterpark of America is only about a 15 minute drive from us but we decided to do an overnight for maximum water fun. It was a pretty decent park and they are constantly offering discounted day passes or 1/2 day passes so I will certainly go back there again. A discounted pass would make for a perfect mother/daughter or father/daughter outing for that one-on-one time with Madeline.

Madeline's birthday "candle" and cherries jubilee

After a few hours of water play (David & I took rotations between Madeline & Jonathan), we enjoyed an oh so (not) gourmet snack bar dinner of hot dogs, cheeseburgers and fries. Not exactly my idea of a good birthday dinner, but it was a fun meal for a 6 year old. After dinner, back to the water for more fun. Later, we headed back to our room and there we ordered a birthday dessert. I always have intentions of creating some beautifully themed birthday cake that is decorated with much love yet, in reality, Madeline is not a big cake person. Also, with only 3 of us eating desserts, an entire cake would be much, much more than we would (and should) eat. Besides, with the logistics of bringing a cake to the hotel it made more sense for us to order up room service dessert. Unfortunately, I can' get the "Mama gold star" because I didn't pack candles. What did we use when singing Happy Birthday??? We made believe my index finger was a candle. Oh well....Madeline and I only cared about digging into our cherries jubilee while David eyed up his sinful chocolate dessert. The lack of a candle was not on Madeline's radar at all as she was more concerned about tearing into her birthday gifts

Can't wait to open gifts!

Madeline was sufficiently spoiled with gifts from me, David & Jonathan as well as gifts that were mailed to her from family. Madeline was happy with all that she got and she was super excited about her "Fur Real Friend" that she got from David and me. The "Fur Real Friend" is basically a barking toy dog that you can take on a walk via a remote control. We let Madeline take her dog, that she named Fluffy, for a *quick* stroll in the hallway of the hotel before she went to bed.

As I followed behind Madeline in the hotel hallway, I got a quick flash back to Russia. In the week after our "Gotcha Day", we had a lot of time to spend in the hotel with a 20 month old. A very tiny hotel room didn't do much in occupying a toddler. The international adoption families were mostly on the same floor in the hotel (we jokingly referred to it as "the American wing"). Although we went on numerous walks in Astrakhan, Russia, we all spent many hours letting our kids toddle around the hallways as we followed behind them. And as I followed Madeline as she walked Fluffy in the hotel hallway I flashed back in my mind to the Azimut Hotel in Astrakhan Russia and wondered where has the time gone?

Awesome designer doggie with a you-decorate dog carrier and dog cape - from Uncle Marty & Aunt Vicky

Super cool Polly Pocket RV from "Texas Grandma"

Stylish smile shirt from Aunt Margaret

Madeline and her FurReal Friend - "Fluffy"

Walking the dog as Mama wonders where the time has gone.

Teeth Falling Out BEFORE Candy?!?!

2011-10-31T23:39:00.000-04:00

Madeline lost her first tooth!

I thought it was the candy that was supposed to make your teeth fall out. Well....Madeline lost her first baby tooth, *before* the evening's trick or treating. I picked Madeline up from school today and her tooth was out.....WHAT?!?!?!?! I knew it was (slightly) loose but was under the assumption that this was going to take a while yet. Madeline was not playing with or complaining about the tooth at all so I had zero belief that the tooth was ready to move any time soon. Wow!!! Our older baby is growing up.

The remaining of the photos are pretty self explanatory. Although we have had to fumble our way thru the Fall traditions in our new city, we found a way to continue on with our seasonable traditions.

Anticipating Halloween the day before

Pumpkin Carving

Shopping for Halloween gear at WalMart

Are you kidding me Mom??? You want to stick me IN a pumpkin??

Absolute CHAOS, trying to get the perfect Halloween photo

Our lil pumpkin

Our Maddie-Witch

Our Little Monster

Madeline and Jonathan - Their 1st Halloween together

Our jack-o-lanterns

Jonathan, bundled up for trick or treating

Finding My Feet

2011-10-30T23:18:00.006-04:00

Moving Out - Truck loading up in NY

One room of 2 room suite in Niagara Falls our last night in NY

It has been one month since the movers came and dumped all of our belongings in a house 957 miles away from home. Slowly we are all finding our way, and learning a new way of doing things, in foreign surroundings. Slowly, the "foreign" is becoming more familiar. And, although I occasionally get very blue from missing my friends and missing my favorite things from home that I cannot get here, I know we'll be okay. Eventually I will find new favorite things. Eventually I will make friends here that will be great companionship. I know that I will eventually get back home to visit my NY friends and that they will also come to visit me. I know we will eventually find a house that we'll eventually call home. But, until then, we are finding our feet. Yep, we are fish out of water......but we'll be okay.

2nd room of 2 room suite our last night in NY

A month has passed and juggling a move (with 2 adults, 2 kids, a dog and 2 cats crammed into a mini-van), a daughter who has started kindergarten for a second time this year, and a newborn son, I have been very busy. Once again it makes sense to tell our story through photo captions. But now, I *really do* hope to blog more often. As you finish viewing this entry, please - fasten your seat belt and enjoy the wild ride that has been our life the last few weeks.

On the way we visited David's parents. Here Jonathan meets Grandpa.


Jonathan meets Grandma with his big sister, Madeline


467.8 miles from David's parents' house

Chicago Skyline

Zoe in the pilot's chair with David

WHERE are we going?!?!

THANK GOD for the van's DVD player!

Elston snoozing on Madeline

Sobaka wants to know, "Are we there yet"??

Welcome to Minnesota - Never thought I would say that!

Our house rental that we rented sight unseen. It looks nicer on the outside than the inside - trust me!

Moving truck driving away after unloading in MN


Madeline in her uniform and off to kindergarten


OH CRAP...FLASHBACK - I never posted Madeline's 1st day picture for kindergarten back in New York

Okay....back in Minnesota. 1st day in MN kindergarten with teacher, Mrs. Swartout

This will take getting used to - seeing MN teams in Target

David's office view in downtown St. Paul - State Capitol (dome) on right & skyline of Minneapolis on left

It might get cold in MN but everything in St. Paul is connected by Skyway. You don't have to go outside

Ahhh if only there were a Tim Hortons here! Luckily friends hooked us up before we left!

David's job got him a tour of the Xcel Center. Here he is in locker room of Minnesota Wild (NHL team)

Jonathan's first hockey game. (Nowhere near the same fan excitement as watching a Sabres home game!)

Madeline and Linus at the arena

Madeline *ALWAYS* used to luck into seeing Sabretooth. The trend continued as she met "Nordy"

Getting used to everyday life here. Madeline cooking lasagna with Mama

Hanging out on a weekend morning


Madeline painting her face at the Minnesota Children's Museum

The finished product

Jonathan, just being a dude

A break for playground time while house hunting

Madeline had a long weekend from school so we met Papa for lunch

I was going to end this first official blog from Minnesota with a picture of me throwing my hat up in the air while standing next to the Mary Tyler Moore statue in downtown Minneapolis, but the few times that I have been in downtown Minneapolis, I did not have the appropriate prop (hat) so, that photo will have to come at a later date. 'Til then, stay tuned......

My Heart Will Go On (despite my kicking & screaming)

2011-09-26T17:37:00.000-04:00

We are on our way to our new city with a 3 night visit in Michigan City, Indiana first to visit with David's parents. This will be the first time they will see Jonathan! Pulling out of town was so strange. Knowing that we were going to the in-laws first, the departure almost felt no different than a family vacation. Yet, simultaneously, I knew that there was so much more to this departure. Yes, I am excited about exploring our new city yet, this does not negate the fact that leaving my hometown is quite sad. Prior to our final departure, David and I did a "Goodbye driving tour". I thought I would share some photos of places that have meant something to me in Buffalo. Keep in mind, however, that some of the places in these pictures look VERY different than when they were a part of my life. Neighborhoods of my past have changed and, in many situations, have deteriorated since they were part of my stomping grounds. Nonetheless, I felt it necessary to drive past each and every one of them. Here, you can say that final goodbye *with* me......but stay tuned for photos of the journey AND our new city too. (Also, keep in mind that some of my photos below are sideways and I can't figure out why my computer will not allow me to rotate them.)

My childhood home

Key Bank branch where David & I met. I was a commercial teller and he was my customer

St. Gerard's - my childhood church parish. Also, attended this parish's school from kindergarten - 6th grade

Buffalo State College Student Union - At 18, met my friend Tammy at Buff State. Also at 18, hung out with my guy friends there too. As an adult, grabbed a meal there between my work & and evening classes

Delaware Park Rose Garden - Where David & I got married

Previously where David & Jon where roommates but when Jon moved to New Orleans, David and I lived in the (upper) apartment

My high school, Holy Angels Academy

My grandma would be rolling in her grave at how her house looks......but, this was my Grandma & Grandpa Odziemiec's house

This was my mom & dad's house 1988 - 2007

Grandma Mazur would not be happy about how her house looks either

Our first house together 1998 - 2009

Said bye to Mom & Dad too

Niagara University - where I got my teaching certification & master's degree

When we were at the cemetary, Madeline was picking dandalions and placing them on my Grandma & Grandpa's grave (Sad....I don't know where my paternal grandparents are buried)

St. Lawrence School - Grades 7 & 8


Tim Horton's....yum! AND...they were building THIS one right around the corner from my house & I won't be there to see it open!!

Wegman's!!!! If you don't understand WHY I would be mourning a grocery store, you have obviously never been to a Wegmans!

Our most recent "Home Sweet Home" , 2009 - 2011

Shuffle Off FROM Buffalo?!?!

2011-09-22T00:03:00.001-04:00

As I mentioned in my last post, aside from a new baby, there is also another life changing event on the horizon. Things have been quite hectic here. In the course of just *one week*, David accepted a job offer in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, he gave notice at his job here in Buffalo, we put our house up for sale *and* we had a baby. Talk about multi-tasking!

So how did this all come about? Although David loved his most recent job, we knew that in order to take that next step in his career he'd have to move on. Unfortunately, since David is in a very specialized field, there aren't many of his kind of job in any given city. We hung tough though, I guess because we both love Buffalo and we hoped that some type of opportunity would magically appear in the region, overnight.

How did we end up in Minneapolis? That all started in about February. David was in a conference in San Diego. On one of his breaks, he was able to take a walk and enjoy the beautiful weather. Meanwhile, I was back in Buffalo freezing my butt off. David texted me, "Remind me again, why do we live in Buffalo"? In the course of that text "conversation" we decided that if he were to look for another job, we (because we have no immediate family in Buffalo) could move anywhere we wanted. We could choose a city with a warmer climate, where winters are shorter. Ummmm.....somewhere we failed in the execution of *that* part of the plan! But after opening our minds to the thought of a relocation, we began keeping our eyes opened to job postings in David's field. When an interesting posting came up, David would ask me, "What about (fill in blank with city name)"?? My response was always, "There is no harm in sending a resume". In May. when Minnesota wanted to meet David for coffee, while both parties were at a conference in Indianapolis, my response was, "There is no harm in coffee". I didn't start getting nervous until July when they wanted to have David fly to Minneapolis for more interviews, not to mention the fact that I was 9 months pregnant and couldn't travel to Minneapolis to scope out the city. If they offered David the job, and it was a good enough offer, that would mean I was relocating away from my home town to a city, sight-unseen.

Soooooo.........NOW we know what is the "harm" in *just* a resume or *just* a cup of coffee. The offer presented to David was too good to pass up. Talk about mixed emotions!!! On one hand, I was happy for and proud of David's success. On the other hand, I was so sad - almost felt as though I was in mourning, at the idea of moving away from my hometown and all my friends. Without a doubt, preparing to move has been much more than just having our house packed up. Preparing to move has also meant preparing myself emotionally for this transition. Although I am excited about many aspects of our new adventure, I am very sad to leave my friends. Many tears have been shed and now, I take a deep breathe and forge ahead.

What is in Minneapolis?? God only knows.... Many people, when finding out about our move, have made reference to Mary Tyler Moore and the "hat throwing" scene in the opening of the Mary Tyler Moore show. I remember this scene well as when I was a kid, it was my bed time when Mary threw her hat in the air. Come to find out, that scene was filmed in Minneapolis. Furthermore, the scene is further honored with a bronze statue of Moore's iconic hat toss erected near the Minneapolis intersection where the scene was filmed. I'm sure I will eventually make my way to the statue and have a hokey picture taken of me throwing *my* hat in the air. But as many of our first days in Minnesota will be spent exploring new sights (especially the Mall of America) I will try to keep the Mary Tyler Moore mentality in the forefront of my mind.
As the theme song says,
"Love is all around, no need to waste it.
You can have a town, why don't you take it
You're gonna make it after all."

Introducing Pork Chop

2011-09-15T10:32:00.001-04:00

Jonathan David
Born 7/30/11
10:48pm
7 pounds 7.5 ounces
20.5 inches

Hospital photo

For somewhat obvious reasons, I am super behind on my blog entries. I typically try to post entries in a chronological order however, the birth of Jonathan is an exception to the rule. So, here I will give the story of Jonathan's birth. And then in a subsequent post I will discuss the other life changing events that are occurring here and that we firmed up just prior to Jonathan's birth. (Side note: Blog pictures - some are posted sideways and I can't seem to figure out why my computer won't let me rotate them)

With regard to the story of Jonathan's birth I do plan to discuss some of my labor story. Why????....you might ask. Well, this blog is just as much a diary of time (which I often refer back to) for my life as it is a means to share news and day-to-day adventures with my family and friends. So, consider yourself pre-warned. If you are not interested in that aspect, feel free to skim past those details.

Prior to labor, I had tons of questions to my female friends and family that had gone through the childbirth experience. I remember asking questions about how much fluid is release when one's water breaks. I think my biggest fear was being in the grocery store and needing a "Clean-up in aisle 9!" My sister, Marysia, had told me that she *heard* her water break. She told me that it sounded like a little "pop". Despite never experiencing this, I thought for sure that Marysia was imagining things.

Statue at entrance to Sister's Hospital. We called it the "Whoa, Whoa Jesus" statue because it looks as though he is saying, "Whoa! Whoa! All visitors must check in at the front desk"!

Approximately 5am on July 30th (3 weeks prior to my due date) I awoke to go potty. Certainly, not an unusual occurrence for a woman who is 9 months pregnant. I crawled back into bed, laid on my left side and began to settle in when I heard a "pop". The "pop" was really more like a "twang", similar to the sound of strumming on a very tight rubber band. When I heard that, my eyes popped open like a deer in the headlights as I remembered what Marysia said about hearing her water break. So, there I laid, waiting.....and nothing. After about 30 minutes, I figured that I was just letting my imagination get the best of me. I rolled over to my right side and just began dozing off when I heard that "twang" again. My eyes shot open once more and I waited for something. I wasn't sure what, but I waited. After about 5 minutes I began to feel a small trickle like a woman might feel when her period starts. With that initial sensation I jolted out of bed, nudged David on the way out, and ran to the bathroom and sat on the toilet. Whewwwww.....just in time! By the time David made it into the bathroom he asked, "Is that you peeing"? "No" I responded, "My water just broke". And I sat there on the toilet while David stood there watching me, both of us with dumbfounded looks on our faces as we tried to mentally register the fact that would most likely have the baby some time that day. A few minutes passed and I went to get off the potty and another gush came. All I could think of was I was so glad this happened at home.

Waiting for contractions to start.

So, my water broke but no contractions. I knew that meant that even if contractions didn't start, they would induce me. Therefore, I knew that I would have the baby that day. I told David I had to call the doctors. My cute husband told me that my sister, Marysia, said that it could take a week after my water broke before I went into labor....I had to inform him that she never said that and that she was referring to loosing the "mucus plug" which I don't recall loosing, but...whatever. He kept trying to tell me that it could take a week. Finally, I said to him - "DAVID, we are having the baby TODAY". Too funny....soooo cute! But still, it took him several moments to have the "Are you sure about this??" look off of his face. Despite having my water break three weeks early, walking around the house with a towel in between my legs while I packed my hospital bag and an overnight bag for Madeline (My friend Tammy watched her), I remained amazingly calm.

It's a boy! Jonathan David

7 pounds 7.5 ounces

Comedy of errors. We waited at home for Tammy to come over. As we were leaving for the hospital David tells me that we have to stop for gas. I thought he was joking. I get in the car and sure enough the gas light was on. However, the "miles to empty" said 40 miles to go and we made the trip into Buffalo with low gas. Also, we got on the highway and there was new construction with a traffic detour. What?!?!...are you kidding me?? We got to the hospital and went straight to the labor & delivery area of the hospital.....talk about a surreal feeling!

Mama right after surgery....not allowed to hold the baby yet

David holding Jonathan

My little dude

meds and so finally (David was still gone) I asked if it was too early for an epidural. The nurses examined me and I was only 3cm.....WTF?!?! I would've thought that I was a lot further along than that! Funny, but I felt disappointed in myself that I didn't hang tough longer. Oh well, I got over that thought quickly. They put in a call for the anesthesiologist to give me an epidural and that period of time seemed like an eternity (all though in reality the time span probably wasn't that long). However, during that time it seemed as though the contractions came so quickly (David was still gone and by now I was clutching the bed rails with each contraction) While I waited the nurses would have to come in to check on me or do this or that. Back to the "Quiet while Amy is in pain" thing.....I can't even tell you how many people I SHUSHED that day. Nurses, midwifes, the anesthesiologist - you name it I shushed them. Of course, I shushed them only during a contraction and then apologized afterward as I explained my need for quiet while in pain. Once the epidural was administered but before it took effect, I was examined again and was at 6cm. Wow....a lot of progress in a short period of time. Once the epidural took effect, I was a happy camper. I dozed off, David read me magazines, I talked on the phone and played on Facebook as I waited. My only question then became, why on Earth would someone NOT want an epidural?!

In recovery room - I look as though I just got hit by a truck, but I am happy to be holding Jonathan for the first time.

Madeline meeting her little brother for the first time

Memory of time at this point has become foggy. It was probably about 7:30 pm when I was the full 10cm but they had me wait to start pushing. At about 8pm, I began pushing however Jonathan was facing the wrong way. He was not breech but rather face up instead of face down. The doctor would try to turn Jonathan as I pushed but he wasn't having any part of turning. So I pushed and pushed for 2.5 hours. Finally, it was evident that the baby was not going to budge. He was stuck and so at 10:30 it was decided that I would have a cesarean. As they wheeled me to the operating room I told David (in a joking manner), "Ummmm.....just so you know, we are never having sex again".

Surprise visit from Uncle Paul

At 10:48pm, Jonathan was born. The sound of his cry was the most beautiful sound in the world. With a cesarean, the nurses take the baby and clean him up right away. It was so difficult to know that I just had a baby, hear him crying, but not be able to see him or hold him. David was able to see him and hold him right away but I was not able to hold him until the recovery room. I just got a quick peek at my little guy.

The rest of that evening was a blur. After being up since 5am, going thru labor/cesarean I could hardly keep my eyes open in the recovery room. I was able to try to breast feed in recovery while we waited for my hospital room to be ready for me. It was about 2am before I got to the room.

Jonathan with his Aunt Marysia

The nurses at Sisters Hospital were awesome. My stay at the hospital was as enjoyable as a hospital stay could be. Sure, I was exhausted from recovering and getting used to feeding during the night, however I really did enjoy my stay.

A visit from Mary, Kym & Cecilia

During my stay at the hospital, I also enjoyed my visitors. The absolute BEST was my brother, Paul and his family surprised me!! For those who do not know, Paul lives in Kentucky. His daughter, Rachel, was at that time preparing to move from Pittsburgh to NYC. Paul and his wife, Penny, were in Pittsburgh helping Rachel with transporting her pets when they read on Facebook that I was in labor. They (Paul, Penny, Rachel & Rachel's boyfriend Garrett) decided to drive the 4 hour trip to Buffalo to visit me and meet Jonathan! Talk about complete surprise and a touching show of love. I just feel terrible that they could only stay for such a short time and I was still somewhat "out of it". I also received visits from my sister, Marysia, from Baltimore who came into Buffalo and stayed with us for a week to help me and David once we returned from the hospital. Also, my friends Tammy, Kelly, Jen E. and my MOMS Club friends - Kym, Mary & Cecilia. visited(ugh....I hope I am not missing any other hospital visitors!)

HIGH FIVE! We're going home!

Jonathan coming home in Buffalo Sabres hockey fan gear

Home at last!

Jonathan was supposed to come home on Wednesday. However Jonathan became jaundice and had to spend an additional night in the hospital. I was discharged on Wednesday but I was able to stay the additional night in an open suite in the NICU so that I could breast feed throughout the night (Jonathan was never in NICU that is just where the suite was) I looked on the positive which was, that day (Wed 8/3) was gray and rainy. Before I knew that Jonathan had to spend an extra day in the hospital, I was disappointed that the homecoming day would be a dreary one. As it turned out, with him staying an extra day, his actual homecoming day (Thurs 8/4) was a beautiful sunny day.

Madeline giving her little brother some love

Everyone is super tired with the adjustments

I was super blessed to have the helping hands of my sisters and friends upon returning home from the hospital. For the first week, Marysia worked her tail off helping us out with Madeline, the baby, household stuff, grocery shopping and tons of other items pertaining to some other big things going on in our life (will discuss in a separate post). The day Marysia left, my other sister, Margaret, and her daughter, Kate, came to town for a week to help some more. Margaret worked her tail off too and Kate was put to work by being Madeline's playmate during this time of chaos in which David and I had our attention to Madeline slightly distracted. Also, my MOMS Club friends stepped in with scheduling a few meal drop offs.....yum!

Jonathan with Aunt Margaret and cousin Kate

Madeline has been a great big sister. She is a huge help to me and is such a loving sister. I look forward to the day (and I am sure Madeline is too) that Jonathan is big enough for the two of them to play together. It is fun to watch the dynamics of our family evolve during all of this.

Aunt Marysia holding Jonathan during his baptism

Big Jon and little Jon - Jonathan with "Uncle" Jon

I will end this post with a couple Baptism pictures. Jonathan was baptized at our parish on Sunday, 9/4. The godparents are my sister, Marysia, and her husband, Mike who traveled to Buffalo, from Baltimore, for the occasion. And even our friend "Uncle" Jon was in town from New Orleans.

At the baptismal font with godparents Uncle Mike & Aunt Marysia and Mama & Papa

And now, the "Adventures of Mama- Dirtyfoot" continue.......as a Mama to two.

Tick Tock, Tick Tock

2011-07-26T17:12:00.000-04:00

Lunch with Mama

Time is ticking before the arrival of "Pork Chop". It is crazy to think that at any time we could be going from a family of three to a family of four. I am excited about meeting our little guy but also sad that our times with Madeline will forever change. Maybe "sad" is not a good word as this is NOT a bad change, just different. Regardless, I am trying to make special the moments left where Madeline is our only baby to spoil.

Lately, things have been very CRAZY at our house. Aside from preparing for a baby, we have some other things going on here that have been distracting me and my attention. Yesterday, I decided that I needed to take a break from the chaos and have a special Mama/Madeline day. How else better to spend the afternoon than a little girlie pampering??

Getting silly with Mama

French Fry "mustaches"

Getting a haircut

Getting cheapie pedicures - Mama needed to get her feet "stirrup-ready"

The AFTER photo. Madeline had little hearts painted on her fingers and toes. Notice Mama's swollen feet??

A Big Sister Kind Of Day

2011-07-23T22:15:00.000-04:00

Grabbing some breakfast on the way to sibling class

The hospital where I am going to deliver "Pork Chop" offers many class options to help prepare families for the birth of their child. David and I have already attended child birthing classes, I have attended a breast feeding class and today, Madeline attended a siblings class. As a result, we tried to make this morning special for our little girl. Here are a few pictures of our day.

Class Time

This isn't the best picture of Madeline but I HAD TO share. Madeline was to practice holding the baby. Notice the position of the baby's head??? I think more practice will be needed!

Sibling Class graduate! Notice Madeline's "Official Big Sister" pin.

We went shopping afterward for a gift to give her baby brother at the hospital. (There will be a gift from "Pork Chop" waiting for Madeline when she visits him for the first time.) Madeline picked out, for her brother, a soft stuffed tool box with small stuffed tools inside.

Summer Fun

2011-07-23T21:30:00.000-04:00

Kid Soup


Sprinkler fun too!

Buffalo has quite a reputation for some frigid weather. Certainly, this can be the case during our winter months but don't think for a moment that we are snow covered 12 months a year. The past few weeks have been filled with some great summer days. And what happens????? The same people who complain about snow, frigid temperatures and shoveling are the same people that are complaining about the heat. Frankly, I am tired of hearing people bitch. Are record high temperatures and high humidity any fun for a Mama who just waddled into her 9th month of pregnancy with feet swollen to the size of watermelons any fun? Nooooo......however, I would take the summer months over the winter months at any time. (Okay, time for a disclaimer....it is probably easy for me to say that since my house has air conditioning and a pool.)

"Kid Cauldron" - despite the weather, the kids wanted to try out the hot tub too!

Buffalo summers are what David, Madeline and I live for. We resist putting the air conditioning on as long as possible. We are quite often the only people on our street with our windows cranked open however, there are times, like this past week, where the humidity wins out. So, we close up the house and enjoy our yard by going for a dip in the pool. It is, of course, much more enjoyable to share these summer days with friends. Yesterday, my MOMS Club friends had a play date on the calendar at a local park. With record highs expected along with high humidity, we decided to alter our plans. Instead of our park date, we enjoyed a mini pool party to help everyone cool off. I believe it was a hit.....at least I know Madeline and I enjoyed ourselves! With 3 of my friends, 8 of Madeline's friends and 2 dog playmates for Sobaka over to our house, how could we not have an afternoon of fun??

Mama-Dirtyfoot: Missing In Action!

2011-07-19T00:54:00.000-04:00

Flamingo Las Vegas

Although it may seem that I am missing in action, I have not fallen off the face of the Earth. We are all here and doing well. The only thing I am guilty of is loosing track of time. Summer is half over and I haven't posted any of our adventures! I need to get better at this....especially for my friends and family that live out of state (as well as a few local WNY friends) and have had to give me phone calls, gently nudging me for updates!

My last post was of Madeline's school's Mother's Day celebration. Things got busy after that and haven't slowed down since. On Mother's Day, David, Madeline, Sobaka and I traveled to my sister, Margaret, in Beavercreek, OH. Margaret agreed to watch Madeline and Sobaka so that David and I could manage a romantic get-away before the baby came. David and I left Madeline & Sobaka with Margaret, her hubby Mark and Madeline's cousins, Chris & Kate, and flew out of Cincinnati to our Vegas get-away. My plan was to post about our trip shortly after getting home, however, time simply got away from me. First, I want to say THANK YOU sooooo much Margaret for allowing this time for David and me. David and I enjoyed ourselves and Madeline had a blast with you! Secondly, in order to avoid a ridiculously loooooonnnggg blog post, I think the best way to catch-up my friends is to have a photo blog entry with the photos and captions telling the majority of the story of our adventures. Enjoy...I will try to be better at keeping up to date.

Enjoying lunch in the Eiffel Tower Restaurant - Paris Hotel, Vegas

Poolside prego Mama-Dirtyfoot enjoying virgin Pina Coladas

A view of our hotel's pool. THIS is why we came here!

The view from our room

David had a work conference in Cooperstown, NY at the end of May. Cooperstown is only a four hour drive from where we live so we decided to tag along. Madeline and I occupied ourselves while David was busy working. The majority of our time was spent at the hotel pool however, one afternoon the business conference attendees had the opportunity to either network while playing golf or, for the non-golfers, they organized a softball game at Doubleday Field (on the grounds of the Baseball Hall of Fame). David is not a golfer so he opted for softball. As a result, Madeline and I were able to cheer Papa on from the stands.

Papa's cheerleader! (That is David in the background on the field)

David and I began child birth classes in preparation for my delivering "Pork Chop". I am pretty certain I will forget everything when the time comes. I guess all I'll really need to know is what kind of drugs they can give me to ease the pain. Regardless, David and I were able to count on a few Tuesday night "date nights"....oh so exciting birthing class "dates", but a night out, nonetheless. Oh....and don't even get me started on the childbirth and c-section movies!!! Talk about freaking out an expectant mom to be!!

Madeline also began her first season of soccer, and thus I entered the world of (eh-hem) soccer moms. Good News - Madeline is on the team with her friend Dani and I get to socialize with Dani's mom, my friend Kym, at the once a week practices and once a week games. Other good news, Madeline is a fast runner and she, at times, seems to enjoy running around the field like a little monkey. Bad News - Madeline does much better at individual sports such as swimming and ice skating. Our little gal tends to be in "La La Land" on the soccer field and is more apt to be picking dandelions on the field while the game is going on around her. Oh well....

Madeline ready for soccer

An action shot (Madeline is #10)

Madeline also had a great milestone on June 1st - she graduated from Pre-K!! I can't believe that our little girl is off to kindergarten in September! She is getting to be such a big girl! Where has the time gone?!?!?!?

Pre-K Graduation Processional

For some reason I was not able to rotate this photo. Anyway, Madeline after her graduation.

In June, David met his best friend, Jon, in Chicago to see the Yankees and Cubs play at Wrigley Field. Jon is a huge Yankees fan and David is a huge Cubs fan.

Madeline being silly when we dropped David at the airport to go to Chicago.

David's ideal "Guy Weekend" - Cubs, Wrigley Field & Old Style Beer


David's and Jon's view at Wrigley

While David was out of town, I tackled a project. Many, many years ago (Before David and I met) David purchased an antique rocker from a thrift store with the thought of reupholstering it. Many moons later I decided that I couldn't stand the chair another second. With practically no experience in this area I jumped right into the project. It took a lot more work than I thought but here are some photos.

BEFORE - This was taken after I started to take apart the chair. My thoughts at this point where, "OMG!! What did I get myself into?!?!

AFTER

David came home from Chicago in the afternoon on Father's Day. Typically, I like to cook a nice Father's Day breakfast, however, due to David's travel schedule we altered our plans. Madeline and I packed a picnic and headed up to Lake Ontario after picking David up from the airport.

Shopping for our Father's Day picnic

Papa and Madeline - Merry-go-round: Olcott Beach

Our Father's Day Picnic

Mama & Maddie getting silly

My friends, Kelly and Tammy, threw me a wonderful baby shower to prepare for "Pork Chop's" arrival. I was so busy being pampered and showered with gifts that I don't really have many pictures from the event. (If you are reading this, were at the shower, and took some pics, could you send me some pics?....Pretty Please??) Not only were Mama-Dirtyfoot and "Pork Chop" sufficiently spoiled that evening, Madeline was also showered with some great "Big Sister Gifts". I was also thrilled to have my sisters and a niece travel in for the shower (sister Margaret & niece Kate from Ohio and sister Marysia from Maryland)


Mama, Papa & Madeline the night of the shower (not sure why I can't rotate this photo either)

Speaking of preparing for "Pork Chop", due to my "advanced maternal age", I am now making a weekly trip to the hospital's fetal monitoring department to peek in on our little guy.

Mama-Dirtyfoot all strapped up for monitoring

"Pork Chop" 3-D sonogram picture

David has traveled so much this year for work that we were very happy to stay home the majority of 4th of July weekend. We did, however, venture out to a local park for some fireworks.

Waiting for the fireworks to start

Pre-firework entertainment

My side of the family had our 23rd annual camp-out. We six siblings and our families, as well as an aunt and two uncles, camped at Pennsylvania's Hills Creek State Park.

Madeline had a week filled with so much cousin fun!! Here she is sharing lunch with her cousin Anna.

David celebrated his 45th birthday while at the camp out. (I celebrated my 41st birthday the day before the baby shower but I don't have any birthday pictures)

23rd annual camp out - serious pose

And....the silly pose. YES, that is me and Uncle Ron comparing tummies and YES, that is me "delivering" a pork loin.

At the camp out, my nephew, Tommy, and my niece, Julie, presented me with these custom made onesies for "Pork Chop". I actually have another one with the dictionary definition of pork chop. I didn't realize it was still in the gift bag until after I took the photo. Definition #3 - " a bundle of joy".

My book club/MOMS Club friends not only showered me and "Pork Chop" with gifts at my baby shower in June but at our monthly book club, they surprised me with a personal shower to pamper Mama. I was spoiled with "Mama essentials", flowers, chocolates, and post-pregnancy "adult beverages". In anticipation of "Pork Chop" I also got the most awesome fuzzy pig slippers! But, for a few laughs I had to put myself in the baby's shoes......below is the result.

Yes, I am wearing a bib and a diaper!!

As you can see, we have had a busy summer. In between all the events above (and I am sure there are some I have missed), Madeline has been enjoying play dates with her friends while I (and Papa too) have been cherishing the remaining few quiet moments to share as a family of three. Soon, ALL of our lives will change. Certainly, the changes will be marvelous, but no longer will it just be the three of us. Soon we will become four. And so, we take each possible moment to enjoy the here and now before the anticipated changes.

Madeline and Dani

Madeline and Michellyn


Madeline and Owen

Madeline and Mama enjoying a quiet moment

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T09:06:00.000-04:00

Mama and Madeline - Mother's Day Tea

Madeline was so proud that she was being a big girl and serving Mama

Happy Mother's Day out the to all the moms, expecting moms and "moms in waiting". I just wanted to share a couple pictures from Friday. Madeline's school had a Mother's Day tea. The moms were invited into the classroom for part of the day. Upon arrival the moms were able to spend some one-on-one time with their kids in the classroom by playing a game together or reading a book together. Madeline is one to always wear her emotions (especially excitement) on her sleeve. Madeline was bubbling over with excitement to have me in school with her. Once everyone arrived, we all took a seat. The kids were called up table by table to get the goodies for their moms. Madeline was so proud to be able to serve me my tea, muffin and fruit. The kids were then able to go back up and get themselves what they wanted to eat. Finally, the children presented their moms with gifts that they made. Madeline could hardly contain her excitement when giving me the gifts. Her handmade card had a drawn picture of me, Madeline and Sobaka on the front. I also received a nice scrolled copy of a poem that the class made about moms and also a handmade picture frame that included a beautiful smiley picture of Madeline. I enjoyed being invited to share part of Madeline's day with her and Madeline LOVED having me with her in school....so much so, that she didn't want me to leave. She actually cried when it was time for the mommies to go. Thank you, Maddie for a great Mother's Day celebration.

So proud of the beautiful gifts she was showering on Mama

As for today, Sunday, I am getting ready to have my breakfast that Madeline and David are preparing for me - a toasted bagel with cream cheese, fresh strawberries, OJ and coffee. Shortly afterward we are hitting the road to Beavercreek, Ohio to see my sister. I look forward to having a laid back day with David and Madeline and enjoying the Mother's Day evening with my sister and her family. From my sister's David and I are leaving Madeline and Sobaka for a "last chance" get away (just the two of us) before the travel restrictions set in prior to the baby's arrival. I don't plan on bringing my computer so I will leave you in suspense on our get-away details until we arrive home.

Happy Belated Easter

2011-05-03T23:05:00.000-04:00

Spring time in Buffalo - Should we play with winter toys or summer toys?? The answer changes daily!

It has been some time since my last post. It would be ridiculous to even try to fill you in on our day-to-date going-ons since that last post, yet the VERY brief summary is that, as always, life has been hectic. After a visit from Grandpa and a return trip to Indiana, David traveled to Turkey for work. After delayed flights and lost luggage (one of his bags has yet to be found), David returned home the night before Easter. While David was away, Madeline and I were busy (a) preparing for Easter, but also (b) just simply busying ourselves until Papa returned. Since David's homecoming, we have actually had some time together, as a family, at home....minimal distractions. You would think that would mean that things would slow down for us, yet somehow I feel as though we are at least as busy as before.

I guess, at this point, the best way to share our holidays is to simply just post a bunch of pictures with captions and let you know that our Easter was wonderful since the 3.5 of us were all together again.

LOTS OF PHOTOS AND A VIDEO BELOW>>>>

(sorry the video is sideways - ooppps! This is a video giving you a glimpse of shopping with Madeline. BTW, the dress that I said I didn't like is the one she ended up with. It looked a lot cuter on than it did on the hanger. That girl has a good eye!)

Madeline insisted in doing the dressing room gig by herself and she would come out to show me. Although this is one dress she tried on, we opted for a different one for Easter.

Making pizza for dinner one night while Papa was in Turkey

Despite giving her the option of McDonald's or a hot dog, Madeline opted to stand in line for lunch at the Broadway Market for Polish food. We split this Polish platter.....my mom would be so proud!

Madeline was thrilled to see the Easter Bunny at the Broadway Market.

It was ridiculous how long we stood in line for face painting at the Broadway Market but Madeline remembered that we did this the year before and she was looking forward to it.

Besides, it made her such a happy camper.

An Easter display at the Broadway Market

Madeline, the Easter lamb

This picture is for my sponge candy-loving Kentucky family

OMG! Hysterical!! Polish onesies at the Broadway Market

Decorating Easter eggs. Madeline personalized eggs for Mama, Papa, Madeline and Baby

Showing off her artwork

Adding stickers

My first Easter lamb cake! My paternal grandmother bought the cake mold for my Aunt Sue at the Broadway Market in 1961. My Aunt Sue passed along the cake mold to me. Madeline couldn't wait to help decorate the cake with "fur".

Madeline awoke earlier for the Easter Bunny than she did for Santa. Plus, she quickly found her Easter Basket. That bunny needs to do a better job of hiding her basket next year!

The Easter Bunny hooked me up! My FAVORITE Easter treat!

Madeline found Papa's basket too!

All dressed up for Easter

Mama and Maddie - Did Mama swallow an Easter Basket whole?!?!

Madeline (and me too!) was so happy that Papa made it home from Turkey in time for Easter. Here David and Madeline do a silly pose.

Sobaka is happy to be in the mix too.

Our Easter Święconka

After a week filled with a grueling travel for work, David took off on Monday. We had a nice family day together on Monday. Here I am armed with my "gun" to do our baby registry

Madeline was a big helper with the registry. She had lots of fun helping pick things out for her baby brother.

We enjoyed a family lunch out after the registry. Here Madeline and I are getting goofy seat dancing to the music on the loud speaker at the burger joint.

When The Cat Is Away, Murphy Will Play

2011-04-18T17:29:00.000-04:00

Keeping warm with a furnace

Who is Murphy? Murphy's Law, of course! As stated in my last blog post, David, Madeline and I just returned from Indiana on Monday......just enough time to unpack suitcases, do laundry, and re-pack a suitcase for David. David departed for Turkey on Saturday morning. He is traveling to Istanbul, Turkey and Bursa, Turkey for work.

The Blue Mosque - Istanbul, Turkey

I am happy to report that this is the last major trip on David's agenda until after "Porkchop" is born. All of us (David, Madeline & I) are happy about this as David's travel has been fairly regular as of late. Although there are two other travel items (May & June), they are domestic trips and fairly quick jaunts.

Bosporus Straight - David's apartment is next to tower in middle of pic. Tower is Galata Tower

David's apartment is on the 4th floor of the peach building that is jutting out.

The international travel, of course, had to go out in grand fashion.....and this is where Murphy's Law comes into play. As usual, *something* always happens when David leaves town. Last month, when David was in Germany, we got a fairly large snowfall. Certainly my pregnant butt wasn't about to heave snow and so I simply waited for the "solar plow" to melt the snow a few days later. This time around you could say that I have been a bit more inconvenienced.

Grand Bazaar - Istanbul

The first (and most minor) breakage was Madeline's baby monitor. Although Madeline rarely gets up during the night, I like to sleep with the monitor on due to the location of our rooms. I want to be able to hear if she does awaken during the night or, heaven forbid, if there is an intruder. Luckily, we have a second "listening" receiver that can replace the broken one......an easy fix but a minor annoyance to add to the list of other Murphy's Law items since David departed.

Turkish food - Appetizer (middle) a pastrami quiche and Main Course a Shepherd's pie type thing with lamb

During this week that David is gone, Madeline's school is on spring break. I normally use the 3 mornings per week that Madeline is in school to tackle items that I need to catch up on around the house. No school for Madeline means no break at all for Mama. Although I am not a big advocate of an "electronic babysitter", you can imagine that turning on an educational PBS show here and there can come in quite handy during a week such as this. Unless of course Murphy visits.....that's right, our cable is on the fritz. This means no DVRed kids shows for Madeline as well as no pay-per-view chick flicks for Mama in the evenings once Madeline is in bed (a treat for me when David travels). Not good when you call the cable company and, after completing some diagnostics over the phone they say, "That doesn't sound good". And so, I have to wait until the cable company can come out on Tuesday.

The biggest inconvenience, however, was the furnace. Yep, our furnace (which is just over 1 year old) broke. Now, for all my southern friends, you might not think that this would be an issue for the end of April however, here in Buffalo, temperatures have been below normal with highs in the upper 30's/low 40's. Although David was able to lead me through some diagnostic things over the phone from JFK airport, I ended up having to call the heating company. Although the heating company responded quickly, they weren't able to obtain the replacement part needed (gas valve) over the weekend and so Madeline and I spent the weekend without heat.

David on Skype from apartment in Istanbul

As far as David's travel goes, he is keeping busy with meetings while in Turkey. He feels better about checking in on me while he is gone and I enjoy hearing about the different things he gets to see on his limited free time. I especially enjoy seeing pictures of where he is as well as our time to talk over Skype when he is done with his day. Although David and I have traveled to many places together, I look forward to a time that we can travel together again. Maybe one day, after retirement (if that ever happens!!) we can travel the world and explore exotic lands together. Sigh....nice to dream about. Instead of Murphy's inconveniences, I just need to count our blessings, in particular being married to someone with whom I would want to travel the world.

A Visit From Grandpa

2011-04-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

Madeline & Grandpa playing blocks

We have been very busy since my last post. Two weeks ago (4/3), David's dad came from Indiana to visit us. It was a nice opportunity for him to get away and a nice opportunity for us to visit. Well, I am not sure if David's dad is aware that it is no small secret among the kids that we do not want him driving. In order to avoid chaos on the roads, David and his sister met half-way between his home in Indiana and our home in New York for a "dad swap". They each set off on Sunday morning for a 4 hour drive to meet up in Windsor, Ontario, have lunch together, do the "dad swap" and return home.

Sabres pre-game show

Madeline, Papa & Grandpa at the Sabres game

David, Madeline & Sabretooth

Madeline was beyond excited to have Grandpa come and visit. She certainly kept Grandpa busy. The activity level was constant for Grandpa. She was either asking Grandpa to play blocks on the floor with her, dragging Grandpa up to her room and "holding him hostage" there so he could watch her draw on her easel, following Grandpa around like a puppy and asking, "What are you doing?" or "Why are you doing that?". I even overheard Madeline asking Grandpa to hop on one foot (no small task for a 76 year old man) and Grandpa obliged. So I wasn't surprised when Grandpa would want to take a nap. But, what I am not sure of is if Madeline simply tired Grandpa out or if Grandpa was retreating to the guest room to get a break from our very active little girl.

Gifts for "Porkchop"

Grandpa also came bearing gifts. Madeline got a new supply of coloring gear while "Porkchop" received his first gifts - clothing, hats, diapers & wipes. David's dad was very proud of himself and the fact that he navigated through the Carter's store by himself and picked out these items on his own. I must say, he did a GREAT job as I love everything he picked out.

Aside from keeping David's dad busy at home, he also went to see Madeline swim (unfortunately, ice skating lessons finished the week prior), we went out to dinner one night and went to see a Buffalo Sabres game another night.

On Friday, instead of having David's sister drive out for another "dad swap" to get Dad back home, David and I decided to drive his dad the full way back to Indiana and stay through the weekend so that we would also have an opportunity to visit with David's mom. We felt this was important because (a) there won't be many opportunities to travel there before I have travel restrictions and (b) Monday (4/11) was David's mom's birthday.

David, Madeline & Tiger at Michigan City Zoo

There was some beautiful weather while we were in Indiana. We took advantage of the weather and enjoyed a little family time at the zoo. I have been going to Michigan City, Indiana for 16 years and this is the first time I visited their zoo!! While in town, David's sister, Carolyn, arranged for the family to have a private dining room at the home so that we could have a mini-birthday celebration on Saturday night with Mom. Carolyn always goes all out with decorations, etc. so even though our party was a small group, it was a special event for David's mom.

Grandma & Madeline celebrating Grandma's birthday

On Sunday we headed back home but decided to only drive half-way home and complete the rest of the trip on Monday. Sunday was another beautiful day. We enjoyed the sunny day as we drove to Windsor. Once in Windsor we checked into a pet-friendly Radisson. We enjoyed the rest of the sunny Sunday by the family (including Sobaka) taking a walk along the river and giving Madeline an opportunity to play on the riverwalk's playgrounds. After returning to the hotel, Madeline was able to burn off more energy with a trip to the pool. Afterward, we enjoyed a pizza "picnic" in our room for dinner. Our overnight in Windsor was a nice family time before David had to return to work on Tuesday.

Blog Identity Crisis

2011-04-01T22:28:00.000-04:00

Sonogram - 20 weeks

Geez, is this a "Mommy Blog", an "Adoption Blog", a "Pregnancy Blog", "Travel Blog", "Food Blog"???? Pretty bizarre, I guess, when I have just as many blog posts about what I cooked for dinner as I have about my daughter. But, if you know me, I guess it really isn't *that* unusual. I am hoping that you readers forgive my fickle nature and allow me some swings in what I discuss. I have always said that I am convinced I could be diagnosed with Adult ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). My mind is in constant motion, constantly shifting gears....as is this blog. If you love the blog, well then, you have a good handle on how my mind works. And so, in light of the profession above, today's blog post will be a complete hodge podge, mishmosh of items.

Today, I am 20 weeks pregnant. Half-way there already!! So far, things have been a relative piece-of-cake. In general, I am feeling great. Although, the more difficult half has just begun. I have been feeling the baby ("Porkchop") for the last 3 weeks. The majority of this time, porkchop's movements have been very regular. A few days ago, I kept feeling occasional sharp stabbing pains in my lower abdomen. I wasn't overly concerned, however, as there was no regular pattern to the pains and I had no unusual bleeding. I figured that this pain was round ligament pain (a result of stretching ligaments to make room for the growing baby). I did have a raised eyebrow, however, when after these pains I did not feel the baby move for several days. Although I realize that I am still early on in how regular I should feel the baby, because of the fact that I *was* feeling the baby regularly and then no longer felt him, I decided to call the doctor to see what he had to say. I probably would've even waited a little longer to call but since it is Friday, I figured it would be best to make the place a call to the doctor before the weekend. The doctor's office had me go to the hospital's fetal monitoring department to take another peek. When I arrived, my blood pressure was elevated....no surprise, I was worried! They did a quick peek and all is well. Porkchop was squirming away (and I felt none of it) and his heartbeat was 153 bpm (normal). Ahhhh.....tears of relief! They took my blood pressure before I left and it was back to normal. The sonogram picture on this post was taken today. Happy 20 weeks, Porkchop!

My yummy crab cakes

The day began with me dropping Madeline off at school, a trip to the Indian Reservation to gas up the vehicle, out to the hospital, and then a trip to Destination Maternity. Yep, time for new bras...$70 for 4 new bras and there is no guarantee that this size will even get me through the pregnancy. Ugh!! Cha-ching!

Next stop, waxing. I gotta look good while sporting those new bras. And NOOooooo.....I didn't get my chest waxed! My eyebrows, however, no longer look like caterpillars.

Time to pick up Madeline at school - red face and all. From school, a super quick stop at home to pick up our library books and movies and then off to Madeline's library story time. Straight from the library to Wegman's for a super-sized two week grocery shop. Zip home, unload groceries and whip up dinner. I am amazed that, with all the running around, I actually got a yummy, Lent-friendly dinner on the table. I tried a couple new recipes that I had to share.

Roasted red pepper sauce with capers & dill

I made crab cakes for dinner. Although real crab meat is more expensive, it is very much worth the extra cost. I am really pleased with the way they turned out. Click HERE for the crab cake recipe I used. I also made a roasted red pepper sauce with capers and dill (recipe here). The sauce was good, although I believe next time I would prefer to try a sauce with a little more kick - maybe a horseradish flavored cream sauce?? Initially, I had planned to fry up some sliced cooked potatoes with onions and parsley yet, due to time I did the easy version of potatoes by throwing some frozen french fries in the oven. I zipped up the fries by adding Tastefully Simple's Seasoned Salt. Initially I was disappointed that I did not have the time to make the potatoes I had planned, however the seasoned fries hit the spot. I also served dinner with salad. I only had creamy dressings in my fridge but felt as though a lighter dressing would pair better with the crab cakes. I whipped up a dressing recipe that I had found on line (click here) that was perfect and so easy - olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar and fresh basil.

My dressing and David & Madeline mocking my food photos

And now my feet are up after a long day. TV time and tea with the hubby and grateful that the weekend is here.

I Knew This Day Was Coming

2011-03-27T15:19:00.002-04:00

Leaving Baby Home - Astrakhan Russia 6/25/07

We have always been open with Madeline about her adoption. Just like with biological children, you don't receive a manual when you are handed your kid. However, although we have always been open with Madeline, we have also let her take the lead. Compare this to a conversation about the "birds and the bees" with your child. You are not going to give a 5 year old ALL the details, you will answer questions as they arise. We are handling this adoption conversation in the same manner.

For quite awhile, Madeline has known that she was born in Russia. She has known that Mama and Papa prayed for a little girl and God answered our prayers. Madeline knows that God told us that he would give us the most beautiful, perfect girl, but that she was waiting for us in Russia and that we had to fly all the way to Russia to bring her home.

With the latest developments, Madeline knows that there is a baby growing in Mama's tummy. Madeline has been intrigued by all the things that are happening to the baby and the fact that Mama's tummy is getting bigger. She knows that the baby will continue to grow and one day this summer Mama will go to the hospital where the doctor will help to take the baby out of Mama's tummy.

Madeline has been asking a lot of questions lately such as, "Did I have hair when I was a baby?" and "Did I know how to walk when I was a baby?" I knew that it was just a matter of time before this line of question progressed to in utero.

This morning, as Madeline and I were getting ready to start our day, Madeline brought up the topic of her baby brother. I honestly don't recall exactly what we were talking about but Madeline made mention about how the baby will be born in Russia. "Uh oh...here we go", I thought. I simply responded "No, your brother will be born in Buffalo". "Why?" "Because that is what God planned for this baby." That seemed to satisfy Madeline's curiosity as the questions stopped. I knew that the next line of questions was not far away. Little did I know that "not far away" meant 10 minutes later.

TGIFriday's - Moscow Russia 7/2007

Madeline began asking more questions about the baby such as, "How big is he now?" "How big will the baby be when he is born?", "Will he have hair?"............hesitation........"Mama, was I a baby in your tummy"? There it is....the *real* beginning to the adoption conversation. I have been dreading this and even though my heart stopped, I knew I had to proceed with the conversation without hesitation. I knew that any hesitation in my response could potentially come off as not not being open to this conversation and that is sooo not the case. (DAMN....why can't David be here for this??) I knew that *any* insecurities that will arise in the future - be it middle-school or high school - about her being adopted, stem from this moment in time when the pieces of this puzzle start to come together in her mind. (Okay, maybe I am being a little over dramatic with that but in many ways, these conversations will be just as or more important than the eventual "birds and bees" conversation.....and think how carefully parents choose their words for that!) So, I took a little breath and continued.
"No, Madeline, you didn't grow in Mama's tummy. You grew in another lady's tummy".
"Why?"
"Because for whatever reason, Mama wasn't able to grow a baby in her tummy at that time"
"Why?"
"I don't know, honey. But God had another lady grow you in her tummy for us. After you were born Mama and Papa got to go to Russia to pick you up."
processing......processing....processing.....processing.....
"Ya know what, Madeline. It doesn't matter where a baby grows because *families* are born in the heart and they grow with love".

Madeline seemed satisfied, she went off to get some toys and brought them back to show me the neat things that they could do. She seemed happy and Mama breathed a sigh of relief.

Madeline and I continued our day. Obviously, this was still rolling through Madeline's mind. Later when we were in church, Madeline spontaneously hugged me, looked up at me with a huge smile. I looked down at Madeline, hugged her and smiled back at her. Then Madeline whispered to me as she hugged me, "I like the Mama God gave me". Talk about a heart-melting moment. Madeline....you have no idea how lucky Mama and Papa are and how much we love you!!

Loooonnnngg Days

2011-03-26T23:22:00.001-04:00

Good Morning!

The days are sooooo long when David travels. Weekdays aren't quite as bad as Madeline and I are used to not having David home during the day anyway. Also, weekdays include activities such as school, ice skating, swim, library story time, playgroups, etc. By the time evening comes around I am ready to veg on the couch. However, THE WORST are the weekends that David is gone. We normally fill our weekends with family time which is a nice switch for Madeline since come Friday night, Madeline is fairly bored with me and she is usually enjoying the idea of extra Papa time. Although David is not usually away over the course of a weekend, his travel itinerary worked out in such a way that he is not returning home until Sunday night. And so, weekends when David is away is spent trying to fill the minutes (and keep everything & everyone in one piece) until David gets home.

Satisfied "Customer"

Friday night was a great start to this long weekend. It was our monthly MOMS not out for the MOMS Club that I belong too. On tap for this month was a game night at another MOMS' house. Under normal circumstances, these "MOMS nights out" (MNO) are off limits. The husbands know that that they have kid duty so that we women can enjoy an activity that we plan for that particular month. Without David or a sitter, I was going to have to decline game night. Yet, Mary (the hostess) offered to have Madeline play with her daughter (who happens to be in Madeline's Pre-K class) while her husband kept an eye on the kids. I was thrilled to get that night out with the girls and Madeline was thrilled to play with Michellyn. Although, Madeline was technically part of the MNO, the playroom was in a separate part of Mary's house that it was easy to forget that kids were even around......so much so that I completely lost track of time. I thought I was doing good by leaving early to get Madeline to bed but I was amazed that it was 10pm when I was getting into the car to go home. What a refreshing evening! In addition to the game night, Mary also gave me TWO tubs of maternity clothing. Her son, was born last August. I am soooo looking forward to sorting through all of this and trying everything on. Thanks Mary!

Do you think Madeline is counting the days 'til she is 16?

Saturday morning, I asked Madeline what she wanted for breakfast. She told me "happy face eggs". I must've had my short-order cook hat on because I obliged. As I cooked, Madeline drew pictures of how the eggs should look. She requested everything from a dog's face to a kitty's face, and even a pony's face. I was happy when she mentioned Rapunzel because adding some shredded cheese for "hair" on the eggs satisfied Madeline's craving.....WAIT!!! I thought *I* was supposed to be the one with cravings!

Later in the afternoon, Madeline and I did a girls' lunch a Wendy's. What the heck, I had some coupons for free fries and free Jr. Frostys so....okay, twist my arm. After a mother-daughter lunch, Madeline and I headed over to the local mall to spend some time in the play area. Madeline enjoyed running around like a little monkey and Mama-Dirtyfoot enjoyed sitting. Afterward, Madeline of course had to partake in the obligatory merry-go-round ride. MILESTONE ALERT....this was the first time I didn't have to help her onto the ride. She did it all by herself. :-( She is growing so quickly!! At least she still waved to her Mama when she would spin past me. It was so hard trying to capture her picture with the merry-go-round spinning so quickly.

No help from Mama :-( Off she goes....

Another "issue" when David is gone is dinnertime. I typically love cooking but I don't have much desire to cook when David is gone. Hoping Madeline would come up with some brainstorm idea, I asked her what she wanted for dinner and she requested that we make pizza. Okay....three not exactly low-fat meals in one day but, what the heck. I figured I could ease my guilty conscience by piling extra veggie toppings on my individual pizzas. We headed to the grocery store for a quick toppings stop and home we went.

Pic taken Dyngus Day '10 but fitting for this blog post.

On the way home, we girls were getting silly again. In a stern voice I would called , "Madeline Olga...." and when Madeline would respond, I would softly tell her that I love her. After a while, I would do this again and Madeline would sternly reply, "Mama Olga....". Cute, but the only problem is that my middle name is not Olga. I decided to take this opportunity to teach Madeline to respond "Matka Moja" (Polish - my mother). The exchange between us continued: (sternly) "Madeline Olga..." Madeline would laugh and I would tell her to say "Matka moja". Madeline would laugh more and respond in a stern voice, "Matka Poopie". So much for a Polish lesson, I thought. However, when we arrived home and I unloaded the car, Madeline was dilly dallying around coming into the house. Finally I warned Madeline, "I am going inside now" as I headed into the house. Madeline quickly ran, following me up the driveway yelling at the top of her lungs, "Matka moja! Matka moja!" Ahhhh...my parents would be so proud.

Whewww!! I made it! Now, what to do tomorrow???

Our Little Athlete

2011-03-24T19:56:00.001-04:00

Madeline is growing in leaps and bounds!!! There has been so much baby talk on my blog lately. I certainly do not want that to overshadow the amazing things that Madeline has been up to. I have to say that I absolutely LOVE the age of 5. Madeline is growing so quickly and I love watching her mind develop. Her questions are much more complex than the simple "whys" that previous years held. I love seeing a real thought process develop in her. Madeline is very interested in the phonics of letters. As I work in the kitchen, Madeline is often nearby playing with her magnetic alphabet letters on the fridge. This is a renewed interest in the letters as we work on sounding out and spelling various words and the names of school friends. Madeline also spends hours drawing pictures on her easel. I love hearing the detailed stories that she creates about her drawings. Madeline is currently taking ice skating lessons once a week. The video above is Madeline zipping along on her ice skates. Madeline is the one wearing the pink pants and brown jacket. Although she pulled the wool over her cousins' eyes while they were in Buffalo by purposely falling for extra attention, Madeline really *can* skate. They are already working on teaching her how to skate backwards. It is amazing that at her first lesson this season Madeline had to use one of those skating walkers but now she is zipping along and keeping up with the big kids. (When you hear me say in the video, "She is about to pass Hannah", Hannah was the next door neighbor kid at our old house and is a year older that Madeline.)

Madeline is also doing a great at swim class. From our first day together, we knew Madeline loved the water. She never had a fear of putting her face in the water as a baby. Madeline was a little fishy during her first tubbie time and has enjoyed every opportunity to be in the water ever since. Madeline is currently in intermediate swim lessons. She can often freestyle swim the length of the pool (although this video isn't the best representation of her ability). She is learning how to do the back stroke and she is also beginning to learn about diving. Madeline's class is a half-hour session. On the occasion that we have to miss a class, Madeline is able to do back to back sessions that last an hour total. Madeline especially likes those days and has even begged me to stay through a third session (although that has never happened). I am looking forward to enjoying our pool with her this summer....that is, if it ever warms up here!

Lesson #1, Baby: Modesty Is A Virtue

2011-03-21T23:26:00.000-04:00

"Porkchop" - 18 weeks 3 days (profile)

Today I had my BIG sonogram. The first question from anyone who knew about today's appointment was, "Are you going to find out the baby's sex"? Proudly, I would answer, "No". Why would I respond this way, "proudly"? Well, proud that I was confident in myself to wait until the child was born. And, proud that I was choosing to go against the trend to know the baby's sex prior to its birth. To me, finding out the sex of your baby was the equivalent (on a grander scale, I guess) of peeking at your Christmas presents before Christmas morning. Although David really wanted to know the sex of the baby, he was willing to let Mama-Dirtyfoot have her way and wait out the pregnancy.

Say "Cheese"! - Face view

I have attached a few snaps of today's sonogram and labeled the images. A few things came out of the day...

1) First, and most important....all indicators point to this baby being healthy. Today's sonogram was very detailed. They looked at everything - brain, heart, stomach, bladder, kidney, spine, etc. They took various measurements and everything in the "growth chart" range was smack dab in the middle of the range. All a good sign.

Porkchop's hand to face

2) Second, we discovered that Madeline wasn't as clairvoyant as we originally assumed. Despite not wanting to know the sex of the baby, this little one was......oh, let's just say not exactly the most modest fetus during a photo shoot. The baby was a wiggle worm (amazing I couldn't feel much of the movement that was going on - just a matter of time). At one point, the baby was positioned in a way that its rear end was facing the camera. It was a perfect position to see and measure one of its femurs. After the technologist took the measurements she clicked the computer to continue taking more images and the baby had shifted so that the baby was almost mooning us. It was a perfect shot to get a look at both femurs, looking like two parallel lines......with "dangly parts" in between. I am certainly not a trained eye in the world of sonograms but without a doubt I knew what I was looking at. YEP, IT'S A BOY! I asked the sono tech, (who had tried to quickly move away the image), "Am I looking at what I think I am looking at"? She responded, "Are you *asking* me"? I knew by her response and intonation that I was right. David all of a sudden tuned into the gist of my line of questioning and then asked the tech, "Is that part of the umbilical cord"? The tech responded, "Yes" and then she winked at me. I felt bad for the sonogram tech. She was sort of in a tough spot because although I told her that I didn't want to know the sex, "Porkchop" moved to show off the family jewels. I could've not asked for confirmation of what was *so obvious*, but what would be the point of that? But my "confirmation question" had to make the sono tech feel like she was in a tough spot. I knew what I was seeing...but I couldn't have David not know. So, I asked again. The "are you *asking* me?" response was the same. And so I told the sono tech that I pretty much figured it out (it really was obvious) so I gave her the go ahead to confirm what I was looking at......and with a simple nod to her head we knew that we were expecting a boy. (A) Sooooo happy that "Porkchop" is looking healthy (B) soooo wishing he kept his legs shut so that I could've been surprised after labor. Once the news was out in the open, the sonogram tech was free to explore the images. "Porkchop" was more than happy to show off "his stuff". The images (and no I didn't include any of these on the blog) screamed "boy". There is no mistaking the fact that Madeline will have a baby brother. After the sonogram, a doctor reviewed the images and took a few more. Even the doctor said, "There is no mistaking that this is a lad".

Our own little Miracle - 3-D shot of face

3) Finally, we told Madeline that Mama got more pictures of the baby in her tummy while she was in school. I said to Madeline, "You know how girls have one body part that is different from boys?" She responded, "Uh-huh. Boys have a penis and girls have a "china". I continued, "Well, the doctor was able to see the baby's body part to know if it was a girl or a boy". After discussing that the doctor saw the baby's penis so we know the baby is a boy, Madeline was downright hysterical at the fact that we were talking about penises and "chinas

Special Papa Time

2011-03-20T22:30:00.000-04:00

Checkin' out the floats

BEADS!!!

Mama-Dirtyfoot had to work this afternoon. You may recall that I am a Tastefully Simple consultant (click here to check out catalog and place an order) and this afternoon I worked a taste testing party. Madeline and Papa had a couple hours this afternoon to spend some one-on-one time while Mama was "partying for a living". Madeline and David went to church together and afterward they enjoyed a McDonald lunch date. The topper of their afternoon together was going to Buffalo's St. Patrick's Day parade. The ultimate party girl, Madeline was enjoying the jovial atmosphere. The icing on the cake, however, was in the form of cotton candy. Well....at least Papa was in charge of any sugar high that was a result of this sugar on a stick.

Cotton candy treat!

Yum!!

Loving a special day with Papa!

My Prayerful, Clairvoyant Daughter

2011-03-18T23:46:00.000-04:00

The news has been broken and the world knows that our family is about to grow. I do, however, have to share how Madeline has been involved in this pregnancy journey even before David and I realized that we were.

I was certain that once Madeline was involved in pre-school and began making more friends who had siblings, Madeline would begin asking for a brother or a sister. Amazingly, Madeline never really did this. I have heard many stories about children relentlessly pestering their parents for a brother or a sister and I, considering David's & my fertility history, was happy that this was never the case in our home. That is, until about November.

Out of the blue, Madeline began asking for a sibling. Of course, considering our history, how exactly do you respond to such a request from your 5 year old? My response would simply be, "If that is what you want, Madeline, you will have to ask God for that. You can say a prayer. Only God knows what is right for our family. Just because you say a prayer, that doesn't mean that you will get what you want, however if God thinks that a baby is right for our family He will give one to us." Keep in mind that although this was my response to Madeline's request, I whole-heartedly did *not* believe that a baby was in our future. And so, for a few DAYS, Madeline would bring up her request for a sibling. Each time, I would respond in the same manner. Finally after a few days of this Madeline brought up the sibling topic again as we were sitting down for dinner. After once again after getting the same response from me, Madeline right then and there stopped and said her prayer for a sibling as a before dinner prayer. Speechless, David and I just gave each other a "knowing" glance.....knowing in *our* sense of the word. We "knew" that Madeline's prayer was one that was not going to be answered. Amazingly, after that prayer, a few days after her request for a sibling began, Madeline no longer brought up the sibling topic again. David and I were relieved and didn't give these requests another thought until we found out that I was pregnant. You see, we estimate that these sibling requests occurred in November. November is the month we would've conceived. I would say that Madeline has some connections!!!!

Now for the clairvoyant piece to this story. In January, Madeline's school held parent teacher conferences. We made our appointment to meet with Madeline's teacher to find out that Madeline is doing great in school and she is on the right track. All good reports (yeah!). While at the conference, Madeline's teacher took out a stack of papers. The stack was a sample collection of Madeline's work that she completed since the beginning of the school year. We paged through the pile and saw drawings, handwriting, etc. One assignment the children were asked to draw a picture of their family. The children drew the picture and the teachers asked who is each person in the drawing. The teacher then labeled exactly what the child said. At the time of the conference, Madeline didn't know I was pregnant nor did the teacher. We reached the "family portrait" in the pile of work and there were four people in the drawing. The picture was labeled with Madeline's words (by the teacher), "Mama, Papa, Madeline & my sister but she is not here yet". After almost falling off of our chairs, David and I looked at each other and then glanced at the date at the top of this assignment. This was dated for November....again, the month we would've conceived. The true question is....will the "sister" part of this be correct?? We'll find out in August. But, as you can imagine, David and I were and still are speechless!! The drawing that we saw currently remains in Madeline's classroom file but I will get it back at the end of the school year. What a neat thing to place in the baby book.....especially if Madeline gets a sister.

Madeline & Margaret at P.F. Chang's

And, as a side note....When I was enjoying a sister's weekend, visiting my sisters at Marysia's house in Baltimore, Margaret, Madeline and I spent a morning at the mall while Marysia was working. Margaret, Madeline and I stopped for lunch at P.F. Chang's. After lunch we were given fortune cookies from our server. My fortune simply said, "Gift". At this point my "monthly friend" was a little late. Four days later, a pregnancy test confirmed a gift was on the way.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T22:46:00.001-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day. Yes, I wore green! I must share yesterday's shopping find. Not only did I find a green sweater but (a) it is a maternity sweater, (b) it is light weight enough to wear throughout the rest of spring and on cool summer nights and most importantly (c) it was only $3.97!! My only question is, how can I say it's the "luck of the Irish" when I am Polish??? Well, I'll go with the fact that they say everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day.

Paul's Visit

2011-03-17T13:29:00.001-04:00

Madeline hamming it up for Aunt Penny

Can you see the "I'm wound up!" look??

My brother Paul and his family visited from Kentucky this past weekend. We had a houseful and I enjoyed every minute of it! Staying at my house was Paul, my sister-in-law Penny, niece Rachel, Rachel's boyfriend Garrett, niece Becky, and Becky's fiance Zac. I love when family visits!! This visit, however, seemed to go too quickly. The worst part though is the fact that I didn't even take out my camera for pictures - not even my cell phone camera!! So, I appreciate the fact that Penny, Becky and Zac posted pictures on Facebook that I could steal and share on my blog. Below, I will try to give a quick synopsis of the weekend.

One pic that Madeline is actually upright

Down she goes!

Madeline milkin' it for cousin time with Becky & Rachel

Friday night, Paul, Penny, Becky & Zac arrived from Lexington Kentucky. Prior to their arrival, our little party animal daughter was beside herself with excitement during all the preparations for company. Madeline was screeching and jumping up and down as we filled air mattresses for the boys' room. Madeline's excitement grew to a crescendo throughout the weekend as anyone who came in contact with her could attest to. David even commented that Madeline, the party gal, is truly her mama's daughter! I was amazed that she fell asleep before the Kentucky crew arrived. Upon arrival, it was nice to catch up with everyone as they unwound from their drive. We chatted and enjoyed each other's company for a few hours.

Becky & Zac getting silly at the ice rink

Duff's - *real* Buffalo wings

Saturday was a busy day for everyone. Knowing that a feast was planned for later in the evening and many preparations needed to be made I tossed out some bagels & cream cheese, Timbits (donut holes) and fresh fruit for breakfast. During that time, my niece Rachel (who is attending college in Pittsburgh) arrived with her new boyfriend Garrett. Due to her work schedule, Rachel was not able to stay as long as the rest of the gang and since she was not able to head to Buffalo the last time the Kentucky group was in, I was very happy that she was able to make the trip. Additionally, I had the opportunity to meet Rachel's boyfriend, Garrett.

Aunt Sue, Kaye & Jim

Uncle Tom & Eric

Uncle Ron aka "The Duke"

Me looking very ROUND! Not sure if the baby is in my face or tummy!

Rachel, Garrett & Zac

Paul, Jim, Luke, Rachel, David & Madeline - buffet time

Once everyone filled their tummies and wiped the gifts left by the sandman from their eyes, the young ens were antsy to go do something. And I was in need of making preparations for the evening's get together. Paul, Becky, Zac, Rachel, Garrett, David and Madeline headed into downtown Buffalo to do some ice skating at the outdoor rink. I was hoping Madeline would show off her skating skills that she has been acquiring during her skating lessons that we have been sending her to. She really, really is becoming a good skater but, according to David, Madeline kept falling (on purpose). Madeline was milking it for all the attention she could and everyone (including David), who isn't fully aware of her ability, was falling for it hook, line & sinker. And so Madeline got to take turns holding every one's hand around the rink. Little stinker!! They also headed out to Duff's for some *real* Buffalo chicken wings. (They prefer Duff's to the Anchor Bar - Home of the Original Wings). While everyone was out ice skating, Penny and I stayed behind to start getting thing ready for the evening. During that time, I undoubtedly began to feel the baby moving around. It is amazing how light (for now!) those little tickles feel!

Saturday evening we enjoyed a family gathering. In addition to the 6 joining us from my brother's family, we enjoyed the evening with more family. My Aunt Sue & Uncle Ron, Uncle Tom & Aunt Mary Grace their adult kids - my cousins, Malina, Malina's hubby Eric, Luke, Julie (their other daughter Kellie couldn't make it because of work) and also another cousin (my late Aunt JoJo's son) Jim and Jim's wife Kaye. Even though I and they all live locally we don't get the opportunity to see each other as often as I would like. We had a houseful of family and I loved every second! In true Polish fashion (and the fact that I am my mother's daughter) we had enough food to feed an army! I was extremely grateful to Uncle Tom & Aunt Sue for their major dish contributions. It made things so easy for me!! Uncle Tom brought barbecue hamburgers and Costanza's rolls (locals know that there are no better rolls than Costanzas!), Aunt Sue brought a huge crock of Bigos (a Polish hunter's stew), I had a platter of Redlinski's ham & Swiss, rye bread, of course Weber's mustard & horseradish, homemade baked bean salad, a relish tray, and ambrosia with Acini Di Pepe. Additionally, I made a couple quick desserts however the star attractions for dessert were the amazing truffles that Becky made (in particular, the Oreo truffles!!) and the HUGE tray of desserts made by my Aunt Mary Grace which included brownies, chocolate chip cookies and the most amazing cheesecake (I was quite sad when the last piece of cheesecake was

The guys' view at the game

Rachel at Niagara Falls

Sunday was Paul's 49th birthday. I made what my brother, Marty, calls my "company breakfast" of scrambled eggs, sausage, "monkey bread", pineapple and strawberries. The daylight savings time change totally messed with all of us and so we had a very lazy morning. In the evening, we all split up to do different things. Madeline stayed home with a babysitter. David, Paul, Zac & a high school/college friend of Paul's (Vinnie) went to the Buffalo Sabres hockey game. Rachel and Garrett went to explore Niagara Falls. Penny, Becky and I went to do some shopping. The first order of business in our shopping was a stop to David's Bridal shop. Becky and Zac are engaged to be married in May of 2012. While in Buffalo, they also asked Madeline to be their flower girl!!! We headed to David's bridal to peek at some dresses. Penny browsed through the mother of the bride dresses, we glanced at a few flower girl dresses and Becky was able to (for the first time!!) try on a few wedding dresses. I was so happy to be part of that! And Becky has the cutest little figure that she looked gorgeous in whatever she tried on (Pictures Zac....you have to wait until the wedding day!). Becky is such a pretty girl and she will make a beautiful bride!! My question, however, is where did that little girl go?? When did my little niece become a woman?? Geez, time passes quickly! Afterward, all 8 of us met up after the hockey game at an Elmwood restaurant/brew pub called Blue Monk. Together we enjoyed dinner in honor of Paul's birthday and Rachel picked up a birthday cake while she and Garrett were out and brought it into the restaurant to share after dinner. Right after the late dinner, Rachel and Garrett had to head back to Pittsburgh because Rachel had to work the next morning. Leaving at 11pm-ish for a 4 hour drive??? And then get to work at 8am?? Ahhhhh.....to be young again!

Hat shopping with Madeline

Becky & Zac's flower girl at crescendo level!

Monday morning also had a slow start to the day. Madeline had school in the AM and I had a few things to attend to while she was at school so the gang was left to fend for themselves for the morning. (I wasn't them worried about anyone starving as there were plenty of goodies to graze on for breakfast). In the afternoon, we hung out and my techie brother fixed my computer's connection to my wireless printer. You have NO idea how huge that is for me!!! Later, we headed out to the outlet mall for some shopping. Becky and Zac actually had enough courage to let Madeline tag along with them for a while. Madeline, by this time of the visit, was near the peak of the crescendo of how wound up she could actually be. So, I am not exaggerating when I say they were brave. Becky and Zac also spoiled her and bought her a dress while they were shopping together. The wound-up child tried on the dress with them and then proceeded to be goofy by putting on her clothes the wrong way before coming out of the dressing room. I see sainthood in Becky and Zac's future! After the mall, the Kentucky gang wanted to make their pilgrimage to Wegman's to get all the Buffalo items that they cannot buy in Kentucky. They packed a cooler with all the goodies they wished to bring home with them. For dinner, take-out....by request, more Duff's wings and also some of the best WNY pizza, the pizzeria of our childhood, Leonardi's.....yum!

Tuesday morning, the Kentucky gang was on the road early. The house was quiet and days of gluttony were complete. I enjoyed our time together but it went too quickly! My mom would always have a day or two of "the blues" after my brothers and/or sisters visited and then left. I now understand that fully. And realize that I may not see them again until July's annual campout. Whaaaaa!!!!

Mardi Gras Fun

2011-03-08T23:48:00.000-05:00

Madeline helped to put up some Mardi Gras decorations

Mardi Gras Centerpiece

Special Overnight Delivery From New Orleans!

I grew up in a family that LOVES food. We are all about celebrating events with a good meal. The majority of our traditional meals, however, revolve around the major holidays yet, any large family gathering is good enough excuse to strap on the feed bag. Yep, we are "foodies" and if you are my Facebook friend, you have noticed my numerous status updates detailing what creations I am making in my kitchen. I embrace these traditions and are always open to creating more.

David's "Mardi Gras Tie"

The day before Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent, is recognized most often by the names "Fat Tuesday" or "Mardi Gras". In my Polish family, we often referred to it as Pączki Day. Pączki are donuts and were traditionally made on this day in order to use up all the lard, sugar and eggs and in the house prior to the start of Lent because they were forbidden to be consumed due to Catholic fasting practices during Lent. (wikipedia). My maternal grandmother used to make pączki (from scratch) and hand deliver them to us every year. Although my mom never made pączki herself, she would always make a trip out to the local Polish bakery and buy a bunch every Fat Tuesday. In fact, just like her mom did, my mom was known to make a special trip to my house to hand deliver the pączki. Although I always appreciated the gesture from both my grandma and my mom, I was never a huge fan of the pączki. Maybe because it is a denser donut than what one is used to. As a result, I never embraced this tradition as wholeheartedly as my mom had.

Madeline created this Mardi Gras mask out of construction paper

Drank Virgin - Dangerous when spiked!!

Since our very good friend, Jon, lives in New Orleans and we have visited New Orleans on numerous occasion and also spent many an evening on Bourbon Street, David and I have decided to embrace the Mardi Gras celebration. Last year, we began our annual Mardi Gras tradition quite spontaneously. However, we enjoyed the uniqueness of us, native northerners, celebrating with such a southern flair. And today, for Mardi Gras, I had fun putting together our celebration. Even David got into the action by choosing a tie for work that showcased purple and green, two of the three Mardi Gras colors.

Red beans & rice with andouille sausage

I must say, I didn't live up to *everything* that I wanted to do for Mardi Gras. Initially I envisioned myself awaking early and making fresh beignets and Cafe du Monde chicory coffee to send David off to work. Well, I guess the bed was a little too comfy this morning for me to actually get out of it extra early. Instead, David had to be satisfied with my plans for dinner.

King cake

In late morning, I rinsed out the kidney beans that I soaked overnight, got out my crock pot and the package of ham hocks. From noon on, the red beans and rice recipe was in the works. Mid-afternoon, I was about to make a king cake from a mix that we purchased while in New Orleans. Just then, the doorbell rang. It was the UPS man with an overnight delivery, direct from New Orleans, of a Randazzo's King Cake!! Thanks Jon for sending some Mardi Gras fun!!

I wasn't feeling like getting out decorations, however, Madeline had remembered from last year that we put up some Mardi Gras bling. With Madeline excited about Mardi Gras decorations, I had to get my butt into the basement to pull out my Mardi Gras gear. Madeline was so excited about helping me decorate. In fact, on her own, Madeline decided to create Mardi Gras masks for Mama, Papa and herself. With decorations up, necklaces on, and Hurricane drinks poured (mine was virgin with a splash of imitation rum flavoring - one of those "pregnancy modifications"), we were ready to enjoy our red beans and rice with andouille sausage and toasted French bread. For dessert, the king cake was pretty much to die for! Thank God Madeline found the baby in her helping as I am pretty sure she would've continued eating that cake until the baby was found.

Madeline found the baby!

Polish Pączki

Despite our new New Orleans Mardi Gras tradition, I felt the need to purchase some pączki while I was out this morning. Just a tribute to my mom and my grandma, I guess. I suppose I needed to remain true to my roots. Despite the fact that I was never a big pączki fan, it totally hit the spot with a cup of tea. Could it be because I am pregnant that my taste buds changed? Could it be that it took me 40 years to acquire the taste? Or maybe, it was the guilt of switching up tradition. Regardless......yummy!! I suppose that it is fair to say I had a multi-cultural Mardi Gras. What it was....FAT Tuesday (emphasis on FAT) is a perfect description of today! A gut bustin' dinner and way too many treats. I have never been so grateful for Lent to begin. Time to turn around and behave again.

Baby Bump

2011-03-05T21:16:00.000-05:00

16 weeks & 1 day

A mom-to-be! Baby shower: Pre-Madeline

Baby Bump - 16 wks & 1 day

This whole pregnancy thing is crazy. I just don't *feel* pregnant. Hmmmm....what should "feeling pregnant" feel like?? I have no idea. I have never been pregnant before. But I guess I just imagined things to feel different. Maybe if I were puking my guts out during the first trimester I would "feel" pregnant. Maybe when I begin to feel the baby kicking my ribs I will "feel" pregnant. But for now, I feel "normal". In fact, there are small periods of time that I actually forget that I am pregnant. And then I think about that little pork chop (the baby's pet name) in my tummy. And what do I think of?? I think of the process of becoming a mom (again), worry about the baby, things to do to prepare for its coming, etc, etc, etc. With that said, aside from a growing waistline caused by the baby bump, I have to say that the ways I "felt pregnant" when I was "paper pregnant" (awaiting adoption) are the same aspects of "feeling pregnant" that I am experiencing now.....the baby-to-be (then and now) are what occupies/occupied my mind. My thoughts of being a mom occupied my day dreams and the hope and wishes for all the best for the baby fill/filled my dreams and prayers. I am living the proof and will continue to be living proof that adoptive moms are just as much of a mom as biological moms.