I Suck At Blogging (Day 49)

That's right. I found something else I suck at. I can't get into running, I can't cross-stitch, I'm not much of a cook. And I suck a blogging.

I haven't updated my "daily" blog since May 25, which is coming up on almost one month ago. And that is not to say that nothing has happened over the past month. Lots has happened. Stella and I took in our first music festival with Carly, Anna and Avett. We spent a wonderful father's day out on Lake Petersburg with Pretty Aunt Jan. We've killed numerous hours floating around in Nana's pool. We've had our first Ice Deli of the year. We accompanied Papa Larry to buy his brand new truck (you can guess who was the second person to ride in it.) We have gone to birthday parties for two of Stella's besties (Happy birthdays, Charlie and Avett!) We've taken in Big River at the Muni (one our second attempt.) Stella started music classes and Funshop.

But more importantly? We've built dozens of tents. We've had more picnics and tea parties than I care to try to count. We've painted our faces and played pirates (Jake is usually Captain Hook.) We've gone on walks and tried to find stray golf balls by the golf course which, of course, Stella counts as her pirate treasure. We've had movie parties. We've taken naps. We've held hands.

So, yes. I do suck at blogging. But I like to think it's because...I don't suck at momming. I thought that finding ten minutes a day to blog would be cake, but sometimes (ok, most of the times) I would rather spend that time laying on the floor pretending to be Nemo.

I have spent a lot of time this summer feeling like I am not the best mom. Stella can be a real pistol most of the time, and being pregnant has zapped me of all my will to withstand her powers. So I spend a lot of time crying, praying for sleep, and cursing my fat and lazy body. But you know what? I may not look like a super model in a bathing suit right now (or shorts, for that matter) but Stella doesn't care. So, why should I? I'm still hot enough to be a pirate princess, right?

So, I will say that I am going to try to be better at blogging. But I probably won't. It will probably continue to be something I suck at...like dieting. And that's ok. If you come to check this blog and there are no updates, just assume I am too busy playing Toy Story. I'm a crappy blogger....but a pretty kick-ass yodeling cowgirl.

And now...

Your Daily Stella Wisdom

(upon cupping her ears to hear a far off plane)

Stella: Mommy, you hear that?

Mommy: I DO hear that, Stel. Is it a plane? Are you using your ears to hear?

Stella: Yeah, my ears!

Mommy: Yes, you use your ears to hear! What do you use to help you see?

Stella: A magnifying glass!!

One Fine Tuesday (Day Twenty Two)

Today was a pretty chill day. Stella and ai got an early jump on things and headed to Havana to grocery shop. I actually clipped coupons AND made a list. (I;m turning into Jake.)

We hung out at the Pamida for awhile. Anyone unfamiliar with Pamida? I was, too, before finding one in Havana. The first time I walked in...I descirbed it as such: it was like there had been some big end of the world type disaster, and a group of people had wrangled up all the odds and ends they could find that were still in good enough shape to sell and put them in one old building to sell for cheap. And I mean that in the nicest way. Not sure where else I could find Stel a cute pair of shoes for $2. But I digress...I let Stella pick out a toy from the toy aisle, and much to my surprise (not really) she picked a microphone. You know, one of those plastic sound amplifying ones? She has a bout 17. Well, 18.

We stopped to see Grandma and visit for awhile, and grabbed some steaks for dinner - Jakey was having a craving. Came back to the house and had a really nice, chill afternoon. And a kick ass steak dinner.

Kids Say The Darndest Things

I figured I should start keeping track of the funny things Stella say, because she says them...a lot.

Lately, Stella has become infected with the infamous terrible twos. And let me tell you, they are terrible. Turrrrible. And she can whine like it is going out of style. Sometimes, I will catch her watching herself in the mirror "practicing" her pouting and whining. So, I have decided (mostly for my own sanity and especially when we are stuck together all day) that I would have to try the ignore tactic. So when Stella is crying, whining and verging on an all-out fit, I just say, "Ok, Stella. I'm not talking to you. When you are ready to talk like a big girl, you come and talk to me." And then I leave.

This seems to be working...for short spurts.

Yesterday, after I began ignoring Stel, she came and found me and asked, "Mommy? You talking now? You talking to me now, Mommy? You happy? Smile, mommy!" This is accompanied with ridiculous smatherings of over the top cuteness and goofy faces.

I'm in some serious trouble.

Monday, Monday Funday (Day Twenty One)

Today was a beautiful day. Stel and I kicked it off byt taking a nice, long morning walk before we ran a couple errands. Then we enjoyed a lovely lunch of macaroni and cheese and hot dogs (we know how to live it up.) Today's big accomplishment? Stella used a "big girl" cup at lunch, and only managed to spill once. I decided big girl cups would be an easier battle than big girl pants...maybe we will clear that hurdle with only one spill, too?

In the afternoon we headed to the mall and did a little shopping (see the aforementioned big girl pants) had the obligatory pretzel sticks from Auntie Anne's and then hit the indoor play area. Jake met up with us and then took Stel for some fro yo while I met mom and Maria for pedicures before heading out to girl's night. We saw 'Bridesmaids' which I highly recommend, especially if you have ever, or will ever, have anything to do with a wedding. It was hilarious. Finished up a great day with some Buffalo Wild Wings and great friends.

Weekend Three (Days 18, 19 and 20)

Jake had a three-day weekend, so it counts.

Friday and Saturday

We spent Friday and Saturday paying a final tribute to Aunt Paula with a couple really nice gatherings. Friday night we had a family carpool to Macomb...and let me tell you, seven Smiths in a car is about six too many. We were positively giddy by the car ride home. We're talking blaring 80's metal, windows rolled down, farting, tickling, and of course...plenty of Words With Friends. But it was nice to see family and to remember what a wonderful life Paula had. It was nice, too, to have Aunt Megan home for the weekend. We made a stop at Buffalo Wild Wings where we got to enjoy Jeff and Jake breaking out in a sweat while eating. I have never understood the concept of pain-inducing food....but whatever! It was a nice night.

Saturday morning we were back in Macomb for Paula's funeral. It was a wonderful tribute to a wonderful woman...and Justin gave one of the best memorials to a mother that any child could ever give. I know from experience how hard that can be, and I was in awe of his grace. Stella was...hmmm, how do I say this...less than graceful during the ceremony. She was especially - amazing - during her rousing rendition of "On Eagle's Wings." Larry put it best though...Paula would have loved it.



We had a wonderful luncheon with family at the church, and then headed home for a restful day of moving furniture and a great lasagna dinner courtesy of Cathie and Megan!

Sunday

The rain held off long enough for the Smith's to venture to Springfield for the Old Capitol Art Fair and the First Annual Gay Pride Fest. It actually turned into a beautiful day! Jake and I didn't purchase anything (although I did take the card of a guy who did amazing handpainted photo collages...I fell in love with a Wizard Of Oz one and will probably wind up getting one!) but Stella did pick out a lovely painting of a Mexican market scene from the kid's tent. Jake and I were sort of in awe of the whole thing. This wonderfully nice woman just took Stella by the hand and led her through the tent. We had to wait outside! We couldn't imagine WHAT the heck Stella would get. And she didn't let us down! I guess there were no pictures of ballerina cows.

We met up with Aunt Ria for lunch and hung out at the Gay Pride party where we saw lots of good friends. Stella proudly rocked her rainbow dress and danced to the band. It was a lot of fun and I was really proud of Springfield for the great turnout!


Made it home late in the day where Jake prepared an awesome dinner. Meatloaf. Stella ate more of it than we did. It's amazing how much this kid freaking loves meatloaf. And how much I freaking love her.

Another week ahead...

Havana Rocks! (Day Seventeen)

Feeling a trend coming on?

Once again, I have to brag about an outlying town that has some undiscovered charm and good eats. Stella and I travelled to Havana today for lunch with Grandma Cathie and Grandma Jane. "Grandpas" is an adorable bakery/ice cream shop/restaurant that has quickly become one of my faves. It has a quirky menu for a small town joint, too. Today...I had the 'adult' grilled cheese: goat cheese, tomato and bacon on wheat. It was delish. If you are ever in the area (I know, I know) you should check it out!

After a great lunch we headed to food shop at the County Market. Stella was in heaven. She had not one, not two but three people to try to convince to buy crap. Case in point: I asked her if she wanted strawberries. She did not, but she did want the little shortcake cups on display nearby. Once I shut her down, she asked both grandmas. And after little success, she just dropped them into Grandma Cathie's basket. (I swiped them when she wasn't looking.)

I made some rather kick-butt enchiladas for dinner (super easy....as in, super) and Robyn came over to join us for dinner and to help me paint the dining room. Remember how I told you I get bored easily? Yeah...see below.

Springfield Rocks (Day Sixteen)

In the past ten years of my life (before Jake, of course) there have been very few constants. But throughout my years in Chicago, Los Angeles and now Springfield...there has been one constant companion that I can always turn to. At least once a week.

The Farmer's Market.

And let me tell you, the farmer's market in downtown Springfield offers all the charm and feel-good shopping as the larger trendier ones in the big cities. Sure...while picking up some fresh basil at the West Hollywood Farmer's Market I once saw Faye Dunaway bustling up an armful of flowers. Doesn't beat seeing Michael Sullivan or Mary Young...or getting free cake from Incredibly Delicious.

So Stella and I made our first annual pilgrimage to the opening day of the farmer's market with one noticable difference. Last year, I could impose on her my own personal favorites (we always split a flax seed cookie and picked up a sport loaf for the road.) This year, she insisted on apple cider donuts instead (I caved) and much prefered the kalamata olive loaf. Who am I to judge?

After marketing we met up with Jake for a fantastic lunch at Bentohs (one of the best salads I have ever had) and tooled around the Old State Capitol before heading home and picnicing at Luke's ball game. This will definitely become a Wednesday summer staple.

A Week In The Life (Days 9-15)

Got away from me blog did. Happen again will not.




Wednesday, May 11
Happy Birthday, Papa!


Today was Papa's birthday, so we headed out to the farm with Grandma for a roadside picnic. Aside from the killer gnats (I forgot about this favorite part of spring...) it was actually a beautiful day. We hung out with Jeffy, too, and nosed on some of Grandma's favorite homemade pizza and chippies. After the boys got back to work, we headed back to Grandma's for a breif nap. Really, REALLY brief. And then headed to the Oakford Park for a bit before the rain finally rolled in. We made a quick stop at the Herb Cottage in Oakford and then headed home.

On a random side note, Stella was complaining all afternoon that her 'tummy hurt.' This stuff always freaks me out because I am never sure if Stella actually knows what it means when her tummy hurts or if she is just saying it. But she soon proved that she knows her body when she gifted me with not one, not two...but five explosive diapers throughout the afternoon. Aren't you glad you read this blog?

Thursday, May 12

This is why I need to stay on top of this blog. I can honestly say I have no recollection of anything on did on this day whatsoever. Nothing. Did I sleep through this day? Seriously. if you remember talking to me on this day...please...let me know.

Friday, May 13

Today was a busy day for the girls. First, we headed out to "The Farm" to buy something for Grandma Jane's birthday. Stella loves it here, because not only do they have a cottage full of really great garden stuff, herbs, antiques and etc. but they have one of the most amazing gardens ever. I would highly recommend the trip...it's just shy of Petersburg if you are coming from Springfield. They have chickens, cats and horses as well, so Stella adores just running around there. After our trip we met up with Grandma and headed to Springfield to check out the auction. I fell in love with a great corner cabinet (which I actually won, thanks to Cathie going to bid for me!) She has gotten me addicted to auctions. Later we met up with the whole fam-dam at Gabatoni's for dinner. That joint is a favorite and is ALWAYS packed. But it doesn't matter....I do think it is some of the best pizza around. Happy 88th birthday, Mary Jane!!

Check out more about The Farm.

The Weekend (May 14/15)

I started this blog with the intention of keeping track of the day to day things that I have the pleasure of enjoying, mostly as they pertain to the time I spend with Stella. As she grows by leaps and bounds everyday, I have to remind myself to take time to not take one single moment for granted. And sometimes, things happen in our lives that remind us just how important that is.

On Saturday morning, after what was most surely one of the most courageous and awe-inspiring battles I have ever seen, Jake's Aunt Paula passed away. It was a moment in time that, among other things, reminded me how short our time is. And how we have to cherish every moment...Paula always did. And I hope that Stella has some of that somewhere inside of her, because it would be an awesome gift from her Aunt P. (Almost as awesome as the handmade blocks she made her.) We will miss you, Paula.

Fittingly, it rained most of the weekend. I braved a garage sale or two: scored Cathie a swing set for the house and got myself Britney Spears' "Baby One More Time" among other things. Thanks, Becky!

We hung out close to home, just kind of enjoying each other's company. The highlight of the day was a family nap in the hammock - even though it was so cold outside we were all huddled under a comforter! We headed to Springfield and shopped with Maria for awhile before meeting up with Nana, Jeff and Bobby for dinner at Little Saigon. Nice.

Sunday we celebrated Luc Gallina's birthday at the bowling alley...and Stella bowled for the first time. It was awesome. Even though she would have rather danced on her "stage" all night instead of pushing a ball off of a ramp. But, she did beat me. I royally....ROYALLY suck at bowling.

It was a great weekend.

Monday, May 16

Another brief post. Today was Stella's last day at her day care for the summer, so I jam packed it with activity. I mowed the lawn and spent most of my day at the doctor. Baby looks good! I would post pictures here, but I don't want to hog Stella's blog. The best part of my day was my GREENERY from Monty's...easily my favorite sandwhich in Springfield. It is the only time I order what I am sure is the healthiest thing on the menu and is also the thing I crave. After my fantastic lunch, we met the fam at the auction house and hauled our new cabinet home! I love it!

Tuesday, May 17

Yay for boring days! Stella and I hung around the home place for most of the day. I mean...we did all the really exciting stuff we usually do (got gas....got groceries...that's how we roll.) After a long afternoon's nap we headed out to Jeff and Bobby's where Luke and Stella played while Aunt Robyn and I painted. Then we all had a great dinner off the grill. I am currently totally motivated to paint. We are planning out painting the outside of the house this summer, but I am now debating painting the dining room as well. This is what happened when I am bored and at home a lot. I do things. Crazy things. And because of my current limitations, I might be painting everything. let me know if you need something spruced up!

Coming tomorrow...the farmer's market! FINALLY!