My daughter, C, has not had much experience with rain--it has been so dry the last year and a half. So today's rainfall was quite an excitement. Just touching the falling water made her giddy. She would walk just far enough to feel a few sprinkles and then run back under the roof line for safety.
Yesterday I coaxed my son to go outside and enjoy the weather. He had enjoyed himself so much that he spent almost the whole day outside, even into the early evening. Today we were all getting a little cabin fever. I was happy to sit on the loggia and enjoy the rain, but my son was itching to go exploring.
I finally gave the okay and he was off. He looked at the mini rivers running through the property and scoped out all the mud puddles. When he was done he was completely soaked, but content. Sometimes it seems the only way to burn off some of that energy is to be outside.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Friday, November 9, 2007
READ!
My daughter has discovered a four letter word: READ! At first it was absolutely adorable. She would grab a book and run over, saying READ! READ! How could one deny? So we would read and read and read. After the fifth reading she would jump down, find another book, run over and the cycle would repeat itself.
Well, after several hours each day for the last two weeks I have begun to dread the "READ" word. Should I say that I am busy, I would be hit with cries and tears. My poor baby only wants the simple pleasure of reading a book, how can I deny such a simple request?
I think she is gradually realizing that if mommy looks busy, she can't read. But, should mommy sit down for a minute to relax, she pounces with a book and the four letter word. And even though I may complain, I do love reading to my children.
Well, after several hours each day for the last two weeks I have begun to dread the "READ" word. Should I say that I am busy, I would be hit with cries and tears. My poor baby only wants the simple pleasure of reading a book, how can I deny such a simple request?
I think she is gradually realizing that if mommy looks busy, she can't read. But, should mommy sit down for a minute to relax, she pounces with a book and the four letter word. And even though I may complain, I do love reading to my children.
Trick or Treat
A few months ago I bought a mouse costume at a yard sale. Originally I intended to have my daughter, C, wear it for Halloween. Turns out C will not wear any kind of one piece costume that involved a hood. My son, B, thought the costume was great and constantly wanted to wear it around the house. I felt it fitting to have him be the mouse for Halloween. After all, one of his nicknames as a baby was squeaker (when angry and frustrated he would make squeaking noises). He is still quite a squeaker... so it fit.
Since he could no longer play the cat in my cat and mouse idea, I figured C could make a great cat. Even better, in the weeks prior to Halloween my daughter began perfecting her "meow". It has to be one of the cutest meows I've heard. When she really gets into character, she pulls the "w" out long and almost guttural. I love it.
In the high desert the homes are spaced too far apart for any good door to door trick or treat. Instead, we go to our church building for "trunk" or treat, serving candy from the car trunks of those in attendance. There is usually quite a crowd and my children got more candy than they will eat in a year. This year they also had a plethora of Halloween cupcakes. My hubby enjoyed almost all the flavor variations. He asked me why would they provide so many cupcakes and I said they're here for the candy starved parents like him.
Since he could no longer play the cat in my cat and mouse idea, I figured C could make a great cat. Even better, in the weeks prior to Halloween my daughter began perfecting her "meow". It has to be one of the cutest meows I've heard. When she really gets into character, she pulls the "w" out long and almost guttural. I love it.
In the high desert the homes are spaced too far apart for any good door to door trick or treat. Instead, we go to our church building for "trunk" or treat, serving candy from the car trunks of those in attendance. There is usually quite a crowd and my children got more candy than they will eat in a year. This year they also had a plethora of Halloween cupcakes. My hubby enjoyed almost all the flavor variations. He asked me why would they provide so many cupcakes and I said they're here for the candy starved parents like him.
Out of Darkness
For the last two months I have been cast into outer darkness... at least in the sense of being connected to my friends via the web. We were able to move on the 20th of September, but Verizon canceled our internet access the Friday before our move. Then we had to tangle with Verizon's immense ineptitude in getting a phone line to our new home. Thankfully we have cell phones otherwise we would have been truly isolated.
You would think, living in an area with so much growth as the Victor Valley, that Verizon would know how to handle installing a phone box at a new home. We had four different technicians come out before our case was transferred to the right department. Each time I would call and they would say, "That case was completed." I would then say, I have no phone box, therefore no phone. Can you comprehend? At which point they would schedule ANOTHER technician to come out to the house.
When the guy engineering the line came out, after over a month of battling technicians, he asked if I have electricity. Do these people have no clue? So finally the dust has settled and we have a phone and an internet connection.
You would think, living in an area with so much growth as the Victor Valley, that Verizon would know how to handle installing a phone box at a new home. We had four different technicians come out before our case was transferred to the right department. Each time I would call and they would say, "That case was completed." I would then say, I have no phone box, therefore no phone. Can you comprehend? At which point they would schedule ANOTHER technician to come out to the house.
When the guy engineering the line came out, after over a month of battling technicians, he asked if I have electricity. Do these people have no clue? So finally the dust has settled and we have a phone and an internet connection.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Edison... Edison...
So Edison pulled the plug on our plans (ha ha ha, I didn't mean to get punny). My hubby called them on Tuesday morning (when electric was supposed to go in) and they said, "Oh, we have you scheduled for the 14th." We made them promise and double promise that the electric would go in on the 14th. Today is the 14th and... they really are working!
So we rescheduled all the services. The official move date is now Thursday the 20th. We will make it just in time for our wedding anniversary and my Mother's birthday (the two being only a day apart). Yesterday we moved clothes hanging in the closets to the new house. We finally have closet space!! I'm telling you, two little closets for 4 people just doesn't cut it (especially since the two little people actually take up more space than I do!).
My hubby loaded up the trailer last night with boxes we have packed in the last several weeks and stored in the garage. The in-laws were very nice and came to help out at the tail end of the work. They really have been awesome. They helped my Mom while she was moving and they have really helped us in our moves as well.
So, a little delay... but soon!
So we rescheduled all the services. The official move date is now Thursday the 20th. We will make it just in time for our wedding anniversary and my Mother's birthday (the two being only a day apart). Yesterday we moved clothes hanging in the closets to the new house. We finally have closet space!! I'm telling you, two little closets for 4 people just doesn't cut it (especially since the two little people actually take up more space than I do!).
My hubby loaded up the trailer last night with boxes we have packed in the last several weeks and stored in the garage. The in-laws were very nice and came to help out at the tail end of the work. They really have been awesome. They helped my Mom while she was moving and they have really helped us in our moves as well.
So, a little delay... but soon!
Saturday, September 8, 2007
The End is Near!
I know, the title sounds like one of those Christian extremist posters following a parade route. But, we have less than a week before we make the big move to the new house! The end to our stay in this pitiful excuse for a rental is near!
Speaking of parades, our family attended the Apple Valley Round-Up Day Parade. My niece is a member of the ROTC and was marching in the event. I am so proud of her! She really did an excellent job (especially given that she only started ROTC a month ago and has already advanced to the drill team and some sort of staff sergeant rank). My children were on their best behavior during the parade. B loved watching the antique tractors (his passion). I think the most exciting part of the parade for both children came at its conclusion--the street sweeper sweeping up all the horse doo-doo!
I can't help but feel that we are going to cut things a little tight with our move-in date. The carpet is installed and most of the painting touch-ups are finished. On Monday the painters return to finish up. Tuesday the glass guys come to install the shower enclosure in my mom's bath and the glass door to our shower, as well as the glass for the kitchen cabinets. Tuesday is also the day that good ol' Edison is supposed to run electricity to our house. Wednesday the carpenters will return to install the large fireplace mantle and built-in ironing board in the laundry.
By Thursday we are counting on Edison to REALLY have electricity run to the house because on Thursday the propane guys come out to install the tank (and they need electricity to do that). I will also have carpet cleaners out that day to shampoo our new carpets. Then Friday is M-Day; no, not May Day, unless Edison doesn't come through for us, but Move Day. Movers will be at the rental to pack everything up while the Telephone, DirectTV, and A/C guys will be at the house to turn on the Telephone, Satellite TV, and final A/C things (whatever they can't do until propane is at the house). Friday night we should be safe and snug in our new house (fingers crossed, knock on wood). I'll let you know how it REALLY turns out...TBC
Speaking of parades, our family attended the Apple Valley Round-Up Day Parade. My niece is a member of the ROTC and was marching in the event. I am so proud of her! She really did an excellent job (especially given that she only started ROTC a month ago and has already advanced to the drill team and some sort of staff sergeant rank). My children were on their best behavior during the parade. B loved watching the antique tractors (his passion). I think the most exciting part of the parade for both children came at its conclusion--the street sweeper sweeping up all the horse doo-doo!
I can't help but feel that we are going to cut things a little tight with our move-in date. The carpet is installed and most of the painting touch-ups are finished. On Monday the painters return to finish up. Tuesday the glass guys come to install the shower enclosure in my mom's bath and the glass door to our shower, as well as the glass for the kitchen cabinets. Tuesday is also the day that good ol' Edison is supposed to run electricity to our house. Wednesday the carpenters will return to install the large fireplace mantle and built-in ironing board in the laundry.
By Thursday we are counting on Edison to REALLY have electricity run to the house because on Thursday the propane guys come out to install the tank (and they need electricity to do that). I will also have carpet cleaners out that day to shampoo our new carpets. Then Friday is M-Day; no, not May Day, unless Edison doesn't come through for us, but Move Day. Movers will be at the rental to pack everything up while the Telephone, DirectTV, and A/C guys will be at the house to turn on the Telephone, Satellite TV, and final A/C things (whatever they can't do until propane is at the house). Friday night we should be safe and snug in our new house (fingers crossed, knock on wood). I'll let you know how it REALLY turns out...TBC
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Our Big Walker
My daughter, C, has been learning to walk for some time now but she has been resistant to giving up her previous mode of transportation, i.e. crawling. It's been about two months since she began taking her first few steps, but she has finally decided that walking is preferable to crawling. She was beginning to look a little silly crawling given she is 14 months old! She crawled a lot earlier than my son so I figured she would be walking sooner. I guess I shouldn't have made that assumption. She is now right on track with my son.
Her vocabulary is constantly growing. The only limitation is getting the words to come out just right. Her comprehension is so impressive. I feel, after already having one child, that I better understand her language, body gestures, etc. I am just amazed at how fast a child can learn and how much they can comprehend at such a young age!
It was about a month ago when I was playing with my daughter and asked her if she wanted to play with play dough. She said, "doh doh?" and proceeded to crawl to the cabinet the play dough is kept in, stand up, and reach as high as she could as if saying, "Okay, where's my play dough? I'm ready!"
One thing I will say about my daughter is that she is fearless. My son has always been a bit cautious (and an anxious mommy probably didn't help), so it has been fun and a little scary to see my daughter dive in head first (literally at times).
About a month ago we went to the Victorville mall for lunch. I don't go often, but we were in the area. They have a great newer play area for kids in the food court area. My daughter was in the thick of the little children playing when realized she could climb the rock-like steps up the main play structure. Things were going well, she'd wait for me to get her ready to slide down the 5 ft rock "slides" and happily slide down, but then she decided she didn't need me anymore. She climbed up the stairs and, before I could do anything, sent herself flying head first down the rock slide--laughing and squealing all the way, I might add. She has definitely taught me to let go a little and let her do her own exploring.
So my little adventurer is walking (and just in time for the big move). I wonder what surprises she has in store for me yet (maybe I shouldn't be asking...). That's all part of being a mom, right?
Her vocabulary is constantly growing. The only limitation is getting the words to come out just right. Her comprehension is so impressive. I feel, after already having one child, that I better understand her language, body gestures, etc. I am just amazed at how fast a child can learn and how much they can comprehend at such a young age!
It was about a month ago when I was playing with my daughter and asked her if she wanted to play with play dough. She said, "doh doh?" and proceeded to crawl to the cabinet the play dough is kept in, stand up, and reach as high as she could as if saying, "Okay, where's my play dough? I'm ready!"
One thing I will say about my daughter is that she is fearless. My son has always been a bit cautious (and an anxious mommy probably didn't help), so it has been fun and a little scary to see my daughter dive in head first (literally at times).
About a month ago we went to the Victorville mall for lunch. I don't go often, but we were in the area. They have a great newer play area for kids in the food court area. My daughter was in the thick of the little children playing when realized she could climb the rock-like steps up the main play structure. Things were going well, she'd wait for me to get her ready to slide down the 5 ft rock "slides" and happily slide down, but then she decided she didn't need me anymore. She climbed up the stairs and, before I could do anything, sent herself flying head first down the rock slide--laughing and squealing all the way, I might add. She has definitely taught me to let go a little and let her do her own exploring.
So my little adventurer is walking (and just in time for the big move). I wonder what surprises she has in store for me yet (maybe I shouldn't be asking...). That's all part of being a mom, right?
Move-In Date
Here's the latest news--an official move-in date! We will be moving on September 14th! Electricity is to be installed on the 11th. Our first final inspection went relatively well. The propane tank was too close to the street so it had to be moved and some sensor light switches had to be installed in the bathrooms. Otherwise, all was good. The contractor fixed the problems and got the sign-off the very next day.
Things that have happened this last month: (1) Tile floors and bath/shower tile enclosures completed, (2) finish plumbing including installation of the tankless hot water heater completed, (3) electrical completed, (4) HVAC system completed, (5) central vacuum system completed, (6) finish hardware installed, and (7) concrete work and finish grading completed, and etc.
Tasks covering the next two weeks include paint touch-ups, installation of glass in the kitchen cabinets, shower doors and guest bath mirror (other bathrooms have specialty glass mirrors installed), the mantle over the fireplace needs to be installed as well as carpet in the living room, family room and bedrooms. The finish is so close, I can hardly wait!!
We did hit a bit of a snag with our contractor. His doctors discovered that he has a blocked heart artery. He had an angioplasty, but the doctors determined that he will need a bypass. The bypass is scheduled for Tuesday. If you recall, his son is my husband's co-worker; I'll just call him Al. Al is taking over the project so our house can be completed. We have faith in Al since he has been in the business almost all his life. Prior to his current profession he was a carpenter and he currently runs a grading business on the side. Al and his father completed Al's own house not more than a year ago. So we trust Al to get things done. Al did say that we would owe him one heck of a dinner once our house is complete, however. :)
So that is the latest on the home front. I'll try to keep everyone posted as we get closer to the big move!
Things that have happened this last month: (1) Tile floors and bath/shower tile enclosures completed, (2) finish plumbing including installation of the tankless hot water heater completed, (3) electrical completed, (4) HVAC system completed, (5) central vacuum system completed, (6) finish hardware installed, and (7) concrete work and finish grading completed, and etc.
Tasks covering the next two weeks include paint touch-ups, installation of glass in the kitchen cabinets, shower doors and guest bath mirror (other bathrooms have specialty glass mirrors installed), the mantle over the fireplace needs to be installed as well as carpet in the living room, family room and bedrooms. The finish is so close, I can hardly wait!!
We did hit a bit of a snag with our contractor. His doctors discovered that he has a blocked heart artery. He had an angioplasty, but the doctors determined that he will need a bypass. The bypass is scheduled for Tuesday. If you recall, his son is my husband's co-worker; I'll just call him Al. Al is taking over the project so our house can be completed. We have faith in Al since he has been in the business almost all his life. Prior to his current profession he was a carpenter and he currently runs a grading business on the side. Al and his father completed Al's own house not more than a year ago. So we trust Al to get things done. Al did say that we would owe him one heck of a dinner once our house is complete, however. :)
So that is the latest on the home front. I'll try to keep everyone posted as we get closer to the big move!
Monday, August 6, 2007
Testimony
Our family attends church regularly; it is an integral part of our family life. Yesterday was no exception as we prepared for church. Yesterday we had the fast and testimony meeting. This seemed to be the first time my son noticed the younger children get up and bear their testimony. He turned to me and asked, "I go up there too?"
I was really unprepared to here that! Only nearly 3 1/2 years old, I would have never expected B to want to go up in front of the congregation. He did an excellent job for his age (that is, he didn't run and hide when it was his turn). I will definitely have to have a family home evening about testimonies. He and I did talk about testimonies yesterday evening.
I just cannot believe how much he is growing! Lately, it seems that he and I talk more and more about the gospel. It's almost a little scary; I have the responsibility, even the command, to teach him. I hope I can teach him well. I hope he learns to love the Lord as I do.
I was really unprepared to here that! Only nearly 3 1/2 years old, I would have never expected B to want to go up in front of the congregation. He did an excellent job for his age (that is, he didn't run and hide when it was his turn). I will definitely have to have a family home evening about testimonies. He and I did talk about testimonies yesterday evening.
I just cannot believe how much he is growing! Lately, it seems that he and I talk more and more about the gospel. It's almost a little scary; I have the responsibility, even the command, to teach him. I hope I can teach him well. I hope he learns to love the Lord as I do.
Friday, August 3, 2007
Home Building Update
I can't believe a whole month has gone by--summer is flying by! On the home building front, things have been moving along without too many bumps.
All the fabulous hickory cabinetry has been installed and sealed. We chose not to stain the cabinets so the vibrant variation in colors would really stand out. I did have the cabinet makers change the side the dishwasher sits at the kitchen island. We had told our builder earlier to make the change, but somewhere along the line the communication broke down. Otherwise the cabinets went very smooth.
We designed each of the closets with the carpenter and they look great as well. My mom is thrilled with the dresser in her walk-in closet and her built-in dresser/entertainment center in her room. Of course we have to make mom happy. :)
At the beginning of the week the patio concrete was laid. The exterior color coat was applied yesterday. We chose an almost milk chocolate color. I think I may end up calling this house the chocolate house.
The painters should be finishing all the trims and doors today. Monday will begin the week long process of installing granite counters in the kitchen and baths and tile on the floors and baths. The following week the finish plumbing should be completed. We hope everything will be done in a month; we'll see.
All I know is I want out of this rental!!! The owner repaired the swamp, but there is STILL no a/c. :( That is not what I'm paying for. If you can't make repairs to a house, don't rent it out!! A couple nights ago my hubby came home from work at 3am, sat down at the computer and began to hear scampering. What was all the commotion? Only two field mice playing tag!
My mom suggested to the property manager that she could get an exterminator real cheap (i.e. cat), but they haven't taken us up on that offer. We hadn't planned on having any animals at the new house, but I think we will review that choice in light of this new experience. My hubby and I previously had two cats, one has been given to a neighbor (who have always loved him more than their own cats) and one has been given to my in-laws.
So that is all on the home building front. So far so good, but never fast enough! :)
All the fabulous hickory cabinetry has been installed and sealed. We chose not to stain the cabinets so the vibrant variation in colors would really stand out. I did have the cabinet makers change the side the dishwasher sits at the kitchen island. We had told our builder earlier to make the change, but somewhere along the line the communication broke down. Otherwise the cabinets went very smooth.
We designed each of the closets with the carpenter and they look great as well. My mom is thrilled with the dresser in her walk-in closet and her built-in dresser/entertainment center in her room. Of course we have to make mom happy. :)
At the beginning of the week the patio concrete was laid. The exterior color coat was applied yesterday. We chose an almost milk chocolate color. I think I may end up calling this house the chocolate house.
The painters should be finishing all the trims and doors today. Monday will begin the week long process of installing granite counters in the kitchen and baths and tile on the floors and baths. The following week the finish plumbing should be completed. We hope everything will be done in a month; we'll see.
All I know is I want out of this rental!!! The owner repaired the swamp, but there is STILL no a/c. :( That is not what I'm paying for. If you can't make repairs to a house, don't rent it out!! A couple nights ago my hubby came home from work at 3am, sat down at the computer and began to hear scampering. What was all the commotion? Only two field mice playing tag!
My mom suggested to the property manager that she could get an exterminator real cheap (i.e. cat), but they haven't taken us up on that offer. We hadn't planned on having any animals at the new house, but I think we will review that choice in light of this new experience. My hubby and I previously had two cats, one has been given to a neighbor (who have always loved him more than their own cats) and one has been given to my in-laws.
So that is all on the home building front. So far so good, but never fast enough! :)
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Fireworks
Tonight we watched fireworks from the backyard of our home under construction. We also invited my hubby's brother and his family. We weren't sure if the view would be too good, but it turned out quite well. One joshua tree ate into the view so we moved to a different location in the backyard, but otherwise we had a great view. So our new home has been named the official 4th of July home for our extended family.
At this point I am SO ready to move! We returned to the rental to find that the ac was not working. My husband tried to run the evaporative cooler earlier in the day and discovered that it leaks into the house. :( We are so done with this house. During the winter months the heater would give out on occasion. The problem would be "fixed" one day and then the heater would give out yet again. Very Frustrating!!
The windows are open and the fans are running. Someone will be out tomorrow to "fix" the problem. As long as it is fixed for the next two to three months we live here, I guess I'll survive. If not, I'm booking a hotel!
At this point I am SO ready to move! We returned to the rental to find that the ac was not working. My husband tried to run the evaporative cooler earlier in the day and discovered that it leaks into the house. :( We are so done with this house. During the winter months the heater would give out on occasion. The problem would be "fixed" one day and then the heater would give out yet again. Very Frustrating!!
The windows are open and the fans are running. Someone will be out tomorrow to "fix" the problem. As long as it is fixed for the next two to three months we live here, I guess I'll survive. If not, I'm booking a hotel!
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Building Update
I didn't write during the beginning of June because there wasn't much activity on the home building front. We had to wait for the roof tiles to arrive for the next inspection. By the second week of June the roof tiles were on the roof and the inspection had been completed. Things started moving along quite well from there.
Insulation was installed and drywall went up. We also had a chain-link fence installed around the property. The backyard is fully fenced, but the front yard only has a temporary fence to be used until the completion of the project. We now question whether that was money well spent because the front gate is usually left open. I'm sure they will lock it when the more expensive items are installed, right?
We had the drywall inspection and have moved on to the taping and mudding of the walls. The stucco has been applied to the exterior walls and today we found our septic tank sitting in a giant hole in the front yard. My contractor anticipates having the drywall complete by Tuesday and the undercoat applied by the end of the week.
The cabinet makers are hard at work building the cabinetry for our home. We have a ton of cabinetry going into this home. We picked out and bought a kitchen sink that requires a custom cabinet so our contractor made sure to deliver the specs personally to the cabinet maker.
We have accumulated a multitude of items for the new house. Some have found their way into the already packed garage. The rest sit in the formal dining room. Home Depot had a ceiling fan sale this weekend so we bought almost all the ceiling fans we need for the home. We also have three bathroom faucets (for every room except the master), vanity lights, a pedestal sink we special ordered for the powder room, kitchen faucet bought on e-bay and kitchen sink ordered through an online vendor, and a track light system for the kitchen that was bought when we remodeled our previous home's kitchen but was never installed. Our goal is to clean out the garage so we can put the rest of the items there until they are installed (my contractor is planning on 3 to 4 weeks, perhaps less, for the lighting).
So that is how the home building front is panning out. I will try to be more dutiful in my updates so I don't have to write long posts like this one! I will try, but it is summer...
Insulation was installed and drywall went up. We also had a chain-link fence installed around the property. The backyard is fully fenced, but the front yard only has a temporary fence to be used until the completion of the project. We now question whether that was money well spent because the front gate is usually left open. I'm sure they will lock it when the more expensive items are installed, right?
We had the drywall inspection and have moved on to the taping and mudding of the walls. The stucco has been applied to the exterior walls and today we found our septic tank sitting in a giant hole in the front yard. My contractor anticipates having the drywall complete by Tuesday and the undercoat applied by the end of the week.
The cabinet makers are hard at work building the cabinetry for our home. We have a ton of cabinetry going into this home. We picked out and bought a kitchen sink that requires a custom cabinet so our contractor made sure to deliver the specs personally to the cabinet maker.
We have accumulated a multitude of items for the new house. Some have found their way into the already packed garage. The rest sit in the formal dining room. Home Depot had a ceiling fan sale this weekend so we bought almost all the ceiling fans we need for the home. We also have three bathroom faucets (for every room except the master), vanity lights, a pedestal sink we special ordered for the powder room, kitchen faucet bought on e-bay and kitchen sink ordered through an online vendor, and a track light system for the kitchen that was bought when we remodeled our previous home's kitchen but was never installed. Our goal is to clean out the garage so we can put the rest of the items there until they are installed (my contractor is planning on 3 to 4 weeks, perhaps less, for the lighting).
So that is how the home building front is panning out. I will try to be more dutiful in my updates so I don't have to write long posts like this one! I will try, but it is summer...
Swimming Lessons
I know, I know. I have been lapse in updating my blog. Summer has started, what can I say?
I did have to write a little bit about the swim class adventure. The first Saturday of June was swim class sign ups. Sign ups started at 9am, we arrived at 8:45am to find a monstrous line. As dutiful parents, we stood in line for nearly 3 hours before arriving to the counters to sign up for the swim classes. Thankfully the classes we wanted were not full. I then left with the kids, leaving my hubby to stand in another monstrous line to pay for the classes--poor hubby.
The first day of swim class went less than swimmingly. We had signed up both children for the Saturday "Parent & Child" swim classes. The pool was cold! I didn't even want to get in, so I can understand the dissatisfaction my son and daughter voiced in getting wet. Then the instructor said that everyone was going underwater today. My poor little girl wailed for the next 40 minutes, getting dunked several times along the way.
I did appreciate what lessons the instructor was trying to teach the older children. She would have my son get out of the water and throw him in with either my husband or I catching him after he was submerged in the water and turning him back to grab onto the side of the pool. In this way, he could learn what to do should he fall into a pool. She also wanted the younger children to learn to hold their breath when submerged. The parent would hold the child and count to three. On three both parent and child would submerge. After enough submerging, the child gets the idea--even if they don't like it much.
However, I didn't really feel that my daughter learned much from her lessons except to start crying as soon as her legs touched water. It amazes me because she loves bath time and the time spent at my in-laws in ground pool. Then again, we aren't dunking her underwater on a regular basis in either situation.
I don't think I will do another formal swim class with my daughter until she is older, but my son had fun and learned a few things as well.
I did have to write a little bit about the swim class adventure. The first Saturday of June was swim class sign ups. Sign ups started at 9am, we arrived at 8:45am to find a monstrous line. As dutiful parents, we stood in line for nearly 3 hours before arriving to the counters to sign up for the swim classes. Thankfully the classes we wanted were not full. I then left with the kids, leaving my hubby to stand in another monstrous line to pay for the classes--poor hubby.
The first day of swim class went less than swimmingly. We had signed up both children for the Saturday "Parent & Child" swim classes. The pool was cold! I didn't even want to get in, so I can understand the dissatisfaction my son and daughter voiced in getting wet. Then the instructor said that everyone was going underwater today. My poor little girl wailed for the next 40 minutes, getting dunked several times along the way.
I did appreciate what lessons the instructor was trying to teach the older children. She would have my son get out of the water and throw him in with either my husband or I catching him after he was submerged in the water and turning him back to grab onto the side of the pool. In this way, he could learn what to do should he fall into a pool. She also wanted the younger children to learn to hold their breath when submerged. The parent would hold the child and count to three. On three both parent and child would submerge. After enough submerging, the child gets the idea--even if they don't like it much.
However, I didn't really feel that my daughter learned much from her lessons except to start crying as soon as her legs touched water. It amazes me because she loves bath time and the time spent at my in-laws in ground pool. Then again, we aren't dunking her underwater on a regular basis in either situation.
I don't think I will do another formal swim class with my daughter until she is older, but my son had fun and learned a few things as well.
Monday, May 28, 2007
My Dear Friends At Lowes
So construction has been moving along quite smoothly. The plumbing, electrical, hvac and central vacuum components are just about completed. The exterior has been wrapped in preparation for the stucco and the tar paper for the roof has been laid.
In order for the next round of inspections to be completed all the exterior doors must be hung. Unfortunately our dear friend's at Lowes messed up the order for our exterior door and did not order the transom. We should have it early this week and the inspection can proceed.
I say Lowes is our dear friend because we had one heck of a time using them to install new kitchen cabinets in our old home. First, the sink cabinet got "lost" for 4 weeks, then the contractor realized that they had goofed on the measurements and ordered cabinets too large for a space. Then they damaged our new dishwasher and jimmied two electrical outlets while installing the new cabinets cutting out the power to both outlets. They also ordered the wrong molding twice. In the end, to reimburse us for having to get an electrician out to fix the two outlets and a technician to order a new part for the dishwasher Lowes gave us gift cards for the money we were out. I will never EVER recommend using Lowes for this type of service again. Get your own contractor because the Lowes' contractors stink and the people at Lowes are horrible about managing these contractors.
So in the meantime, we have made a trip to one of the tile shops my contractor uses. There we picked out carpet, tile flooring, tile for the baths and showers, and granite for the kitchen and baths. We still need to decide on the back splash for the kitchen, but by the end we were completely exhausted! We could not make another decision so we will save that one for another day.
In order for the next round of inspections to be completed all the exterior doors must be hung. Unfortunately our dear friend's at Lowes messed up the order for our exterior door and did not order the transom. We should have it early this week and the inspection can proceed.
I say Lowes is our dear friend because we had one heck of a time using them to install new kitchen cabinets in our old home. First, the sink cabinet got "lost" for 4 weeks, then the contractor realized that they had goofed on the measurements and ordered cabinets too large for a space. Then they damaged our new dishwasher and jimmied two electrical outlets while installing the new cabinets cutting out the power to both outlets. They also ordered the wrong molding twice. In the end, to reimburse us for having to get an electrician out to fix the two outlets and a technician to order a new part for the dishwasher Lowes gave us gift cards for the money we were out. I will never EVER recommend using Lowes for this type of service again. Get your own contractor because the Lowes' contractors stink and the people at Lowes are horrible about managing these contractors.
So in the meantime, we have made a trip to one of the tile shops my contractor uses. There we picked out carpet, tile flooring, tile for the baths and showers, and granite for the kitchen and baths. We still need to decide on the back splash for the kitchen, but by the end we were completely exhausted! We could not make another decision so we will save that one for another day.
Church Music
I have mentioned previously that my son loves tractors. He also LOVES music. Many of my friends find it quite amusing when he spontaneously bursts into song. It could be "Row, Row, Row Your Boat", "Where Has My Little Dog Gone" or "I've been Working on the Railroad" just to name a few. So it is no surprise that my son's favorite part of our main church meeting is the hymns.
Unfortunately, my son doesn't know the words to most of the church hymns. A few weeks ago I began to notice that my son was singing more than "oohs" and "ahs" during the hymn. He was actually inventing words of his own. And what words would be more appropriate in church than names of tractors? That's right, in the middle of a hymn I would hear o/~ "Aaah, Bulldozer! BullDOooOZEEEER!" o/~ So those of you who attend church with us and read this blog now know why my husband and I are snickering through the hymns. We mean no disrespect, we just can't help ourselves.
Unfortunately, my son doesn't know the words to most of the church hymns. A few weeks ago I began to notice that my son was singing more than "oohs" and "ahs" during the hymn. He was actually inventing words of his own. And what words would be more appropriate in church than names of tractors? That's right, in the middle of a hymn I would hear o/~ "Aaah, Bulldozer! BullDOooOZEEEER!" o/~ So those of you who attend church with us and read this blog now know why my husband and I are snickering through the hymns. We mean no disrespect, we just can't help ourselves.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
One Tough Cookie
I have to say that my daughter is one tough cookie. She is always on the go. Unlike her brother, she was crawling at the normal age of 8 months. My son was never in a hurry, he didn't begin to crawl until 11 months old. My daughter, now 10 1/2 months old, can really fly across the floor. And, if a door is opened, watch out! She is going, going, gone (squealing and giggling all the way).
In the backyard of our rental there is a lot of concrete. This can be hard on the knees so my daughter has perfected what I call the three point crawl. She uses one foot to propel herself forward so she doesn't have to have both knees on the ground. This has been fairly effective, especially since she can switch knees when one gets tired.
We also have a large gravel area in the backyard and a smaller gravel area in the front yard. These used to be barriers for my little Cutesie, but she has decided that they will be so no more. A few days ago she played for a brief time in some rocks in the front yard, but I figured after experiencing the sharp jabs of the rocks she would no longer venture there. Wrong.
Yesterday she decided to take an extended trip in the rocks in the backyard, traveling a good two to three yards to get from my mother's room to the concrete. Later, she returned by taking a round about way through the rocks, stopping to play with various tractors along her path. I can dress her like a little princess, but I know she is one rough and tough little girl at heart.
In the backyard of our rental there is a lot of concrete. This can be hard on the knees so my daughter has perfected what I call the three point crawl. She uses one foot to propel herself forward so she doesn't have to have both knees on the ground. This has been fairly effective, especially since she can switch knees when one gets tired.
We also have a large gravel area in the backyard and a smaller gravel area in the front yard. These used to be barriers for my little Cutesie, but she has decided that they will be so no more. A few days ago she played for a brief time in some rocks in the front yard, but I figured after experiencing the sharp jabs of the rocks she would no longer venture there. Wrong.
Yesterday she decided to take an extended trip in the rocks in the backyard, traveling a good two to three yards to get from my mother's room to the concrete. Later, she returned by taking a round about way through the rocks, stopping to play with various tractors along her path. I can dress her like a little princess, but I know she is one rough and tough little girl at heart.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Meeting the Cabinet Maker
Our builder had the cabinet-maker over today to take measurements for all the cabinetry in our home and there is A LOT of cabinetry. My mother is having the cabinet-makers create a built-in TV entertainment unit for her room. It was either have them build it or buy another piece of furniture. We also added a small desk in the kitchen and a broom closet in the HUGE laundry room (my mother wanted a large laundry room and this one is enormous). Otherwise, the cabinets follow the original floor plan.
We have been debating whether we would use Maple cabinetry or Hickory. The cabinet-maker said the price is comparable so we went with Hickory. When we remodeled the kitchen in our old house we used Maple and I still think Maple is very nice, but Hickory has so much character. Hopefully we love it as much when it is installed in a couple of months.
We have been debating whether we would use Maple cabinetry or Hickory. The cabinet-maker said the price is comparable so we went with Hickory. When we remodeled the kitchen in our old house we used Maple and I still think Maple is very nice, but Hickory has so much character. Hopefully we love it as much when it is installed in a couple of months.
Rough Framing
The rough framing of our home is nearly complete. The work site has been cleaned in lieu of the framing inspection that should occur this week. Our windows were installed last Friday and they are beautiful! Our builder is using CertainTeed casement windows. We decided to go with casements because of the tighter seal versus the standard sliders that are common in California. They are truly gorgeous.
Another thing of beauty is our roof. The builder has installed radiant barrier roof material. Rather than regular plywood, radiant barrier roofing has an undercoat of aluminum which reflects the heat off the roof. The difference walking under the roof line is amazing. The radiant roofing continues to the patios that follow the roof line. I know we will be very thankful for this investment during the terribly hot summer months.
We caught a couple things that had not been finished yet--my mom's corner shower still needed a side wall and seat (the original plans had glass walls on all three sides and no seat). Also, we noticed the toilet drain was too close to the powder room wall so the floor will need to be jacked and drain moved about a foot. Otherwise things are moving smoothly. Our builder figures most of the house will be finished in 3 months, so we will probably be able to move into the home in 4 months.
Another thing of beauty is our roof. The builder has installed radiant barrier roof material. Rather than regular plywood, radiant barrier roofing has an undercoat of aluminum which reflects the heat off the roof. The difference walking under the roof line is amazing. The radiant roofing continues to the patios that follow the roof line. I know we will be very thankful for this investment during the terribly hot summer months.
We caught a couple things that had not been finished yet--my mom's corner shower still needed a side wall and seat (the original plans had glass walls on all three sides and no seat). Also, we noticed the toilet drain was too close to the powder room wall so the floor will need to be jacked and drain moved about a foot. Otherwise things are moving smoothly. Our builder figures most of the house will be finished in 3 months, so we will probably be able to move into the home in 4 months.
Friday, May 11, 2007
Farmer's Market
Every Thursday a Farmer's Market is held at Victor Valley College. Since moving to the victor valley area 2 years ago this market has been an almost weekly adventure for my little family. I remember our first trip to the market. It was the first time my son tasted a strawberry. I still remember him sitting on my hip in the sling, savoring each juicy bite, strawberry juice running through his fingers and down his little arms.
My husband hasn't been able to go with us to the market lately because of his work schedule, but we still plan our weekly trip. Over the winter the market slows down quite a bit and I only go about every two weeks. Last week I missed the market, but when I went to the grocery store and found peaches that were ripe I had a feeling that things were going to be exciting this week. It seems to have taken a little longer to get really exciting this year, but the market has finally arrived!
Yesterday I bought apricots, peaches, cherries, strawberries, tomatoes, asparagus, green beans, broccoli, new potatoes and lettuce. My daughter had her first apricot. Oh how she loved that apricot! By the time she was done her little face was bright orange. My son loves apricots as well. I bought 8 and by the time we reached the car I had 3 left. One went to my daughter, the rest to my son. I just can't say it enough, I love the farmer's market!!
My husband hasn't been able to go with us to the market lately because of his work schedule, but we still plan our weekly trip. Over the winter the market slows down quite a bit and I only go about every two weeks. Last week I missed the market, but when I went to the grocery store and found peaches that were ripe I had a feeling that things were going to be exciting this week. It seems to have taken a little longer to get really exciting this year, but the market has finally arrived!
Yesterday I bought apricots, peaches, cherries, strawberries, tomatoes, asparagus, green beans, broccoli, new potatoes and lettuce. My daughter had her first apricot. Oh how she loved that apricot! By the time she was done her little face was bright orange. My son loves apricots as well. I bought 8 and by the time we reached the car I had 3 left. One went to my daughter, the rest to my son. I just can't say it enough, I love the farmer's market!!
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Under Roof
Another week has come and gone and work continues at a feverish pace. Since so much has occurred, I thought I'd outline day by day:
Last Wednesday - The slab foundation was poured.
Thursday - The framers outlined the base of the walls in a dry run to ensure the walls would go up smoothly.
Friday - Despite fierce winds, the framers erected the walls of the house.
Saturday - Framers plumbed the walls in preparation for the trusses.
Monday - Truss work begins.
Yesterday we took a grand tour of our home. Finally we can get a better feel for the layout of our home. With things moving so quickly, my mom joked with the framers that we would be ready to move in two weeks.
Last Wednesday - The slab foundation was poured.
Thursday - The framers outlined the base of the walls in a dry run to ensure the walls would go up smoothly.
Friday - Despite fierce winds, the framers erected the walls of the house.
Saturday - Framers plumbed the walls in preparation for the trusses.
Monday - Truss work begins.
Yesterday we took a grand tour of our home. Finally we can get a better feel for the layout of our home. With things moving so quickly, my mom joked with the framers that we would be ready to move in two weeks.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Tractors!
As I have said before, my son loves tractors. Following Park Day on Wednesday, we drove by the property and saw that a tractor had arrived to remove the dirt from the trenching and smooth out the area where the foundation will be laid. My son was overjoyed at seeing the tractor.
It was nearing lunchtime, but I took him out of the car and we introduced ourselves to the men working. I told them that my son just had to look at the tractor. One of the men offered to give him a ride. Oh what joy filled my little boy's soul! Did he want to go for a ride on the tractor? Did the Earth revolve around the sun? What a silly question.
Thankfully I had my camera and we now have video of the infamous ride on the tractor. Sometimes I think we decided to build a house just for my son's enjoyment in watching it being built.
It was nearing lunchtime, but I took him out of the car and we introduced ourselves to the men working. I told them that my son just had to look at the tractor. One of the men offered to give him a ride. Oh what joy filled my little boy's soul! Did he want to go for a ride on the tractor? Did the Earth revolve around the sun? What a silly question.
Thankfully I had my camera and we now have video of the infamous ride on the tractor. Sometimes I think we decided to build a house just for my son's enjoyment in watching it being built.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Decisions, Decisions
It's official, our first cosmetic decision regarding the house has been made. We have chosen a roof color. It took us over a week. But I have called our contractor and the order has been placed. There is no turning back now.
Sometimes I wonder why three adults with no aptitude for decisive decision making decided to build a house together. The number of choices that will need to be made between now and the completion of this project are daunting. But at least we made it through decision number one fairly unscathed.
I had to lobby my mother and husband on going with my choice of roof color, but I was successful. I can be pretty persuasive. If anything, they finally agreed with me to get me to stop talking about it. I don't think I'll win every choice, but I can certainly try!
Sometimes I wonder why three adults with no aptitude for decisive decision making decided to build a house together. The number of choices that will need to be made between now and the completion of this project are daunting. But at least we made it through decision number one fairly unscathed.
I had to lobby my mother and husband on going with my choice of roof color, but I was successful. I can be pretty persuasive. If anything, they finally agreed with me to get me to stop talking about it. I don't think I'll win every choice, but I can certainly try!
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Pushing Dirt
What a difference a week makes! I guess it has been a little over a week since my last post... Things have really been moving at the property--and I mean that in a literal sense. Grading took place a week ago Monday. B was thrilled to watch the bulldozer and loader work. The man grading the lot was very nice. He let B sit in one tractor while operating the other one.
At this point I have to digress to explain how significant this was to my son. My son is fascinated by big tractors and construction sites. My mom has said that we moved to the right area with all the construction in progress in the Victor Valley. In our backyard, my son has set up his own construction site. I can't even begin to count the number of tractors he has in our backyard. The grandmas love showering him with tractors because of his absolute elation in receiving them. So I cannot stress enough how utterly, completely thrilled my son is to watch tractors at work. Imagine how even more thrilled he was to sit in one of those big machines.
We returned to the property a couple days later to watch the backhoe trench the property. This time my son brought one of his toy tractors to "push dirt" while the backhoe was working. Even C got into the occasion and used her hands to shovel large amounts of dirt (and to try to eat the dirt as babies often do). The only way to convince B to leave was to bribe him with candy and the assurance that in a few days the concrete mixer would come to the property.
Today the forms were laid for the footings and tomorrow rough plumbing will be installed. All in all, it has been amazing to watch the transformation that has occurred at our site. When the property was graded, I was amazed--it was so beautiful. Each step has increased my vision of what our home will be like and so far, I am thrilled.
At this point I have to digress to explain how significant this was to my son. My son is fascinated by big tractors and construction sites. My mom has said that we moved to the right area with all the construction in progress in the Victor Valley. In our backyard, my son has set up his own construction site. I can't even begin to count the number of tractors he has in our backyard. The grandmas love showering him with tractors because of his absolute elation in receiving them. So I cannot stress enough how utterly, completely thrilled my son is to watch tractors at work. Imagine how even more thrilled he was to sit in one of those big machines.
We returned to the property a couple days later to watch the backhoe trench the property. This time my son brought one of his toy tractors to "push dirt" while the backhoe was working. Even C got into the occasion and used her hands to shovel large amounts of dirt (and to try to eat the dirt as babies often do). The only way to convince B to leave was to bribe him with candy and the assurance that in a few days the concrete mixer would come to the property.
Today the forms were laid for the footings and tomorrow rough plumbing will be installed. All in all, it has been amazing to watch the transformation that has occurred at our site. When the property was graded, I was amazed--it was so beautiful. Each step has increased my vision of what our home will be like and so far, I am thrilled.
Monday, April 9, 2007
DDR
On Saturday my family and I traveled "down the hill" to visit my sister and her husband. I told everyone we were going down to celebrate Easter together, but that was just a ruse. I have to be honest and confess... we went down to visit because I wanted to play DDR. What is DDR you ask? It is one of the hot video games out, one of the first interactive games on the market, it is Dance Dance Revolution.
My first exposure to DDR came while I was a graduate student at Cal. A friend held a pool party at his father's home in Marin. In their basement was the arcade version of DDR. It seemed like a lot of fun, but I don't frequent arcades often and I'm not going to spend $1 for less than 5 minutes of play time.
Now I've never been one to play video games. I spent some time playing MUD games on a local BBS while in high school, but even that got a little old after awhile. My sister has always been more fond of video games and her husband even more so. After playing DDR recently at one of my niece's birthday parties, I called my sister to tell her that this was a game she MUST have. She told me that her husband had offered to buy it for her, but she refused. Thankfully she listened to my advice and they are now the proud owners of DDR. And now I have to think of another good excuse to visit my sister, so I can play DDR too.
My first exposure to DDR came while I was a graduate student at Cal. A friend held a pool party at his father's home in Marin. In their basement was the arcade version of DDR. It seemed like a lot of fun, but I don't frequent arcades often and I'm not going to spend $1 for less than 5 minutes of play time.
Now I've never been one to play video games. I spent some time playing MUD games on a local BBS while in high school, but even that got a little old after awhile. My sister has always been more fond of video games and her husband even more so. After playing DDR recently at one of my niece's birthday parties, I called my sister to tell her that this was a game she MUST have. She told me that her husband had offered to buy it for her, but she refused. Thankfully she listened to my advice and they are now the proud owners of DDR. And now I have to think of another good excuse to visit my sister, so I can play DDR too.
Friday, April 6, 2007
Bath Time
There is something about bath time at my house--it's hard to explain. It always seems like the kids are thrilled with the announcement of bath time, but by the time their bath is over one or the other or both are crying and mommy is red-faced and unhappy. But all the unhappiness of the day before seems to be forgotten the next day when bath time is announced again.
Because of the problems I've experienced with having a 3 year old and a 9 month old bathing together and being civil, I have been giving each their own bath after dinner. My daughter always needs one because she is in the "I can eat by myself--even if half of dinner lands in my lap" stage and my son spends most of his time outside digging with tractors so he always needs one as well.
Following dinner last night I announce it is bath time. My son asks, "C going to take a bath with me? You want to take a bath with me little girl?" How could I deny his petition? I decided to be brave and attempt to bathe them at the same time.
At the mention of bath my little girl begins pumping her arms and legs in anticipation--bouncing like a little jumping bean. When we get to the end of the hallway I leave C at the doorway to the bathroom. B races ahead of me because he wants to "start" the bath. No sooner had I helped him turn on the water when, to my amazement, I see my daughter climbing to her knees next to the bathtub. C began crawling a few weeks ago, but never has she moved so fast! She definitely didn't want to be left out of the fun.
And bath time was different this time. No one was crying at the end; we truly had a good time. Perhaps this is why my children are so thrilled with the announcement of bath time--we really can have a good time with one another. I just needed to be reminded of how much fun.
Because of the problems I've experienced with having a 3 year old and a 9 month old bathing together and being civil, I have been giving each their own bath after dinner. My daughter always needs one because she is in the "I can eat by myself--even if half of dinner lands in my lap" stage and my son spends most of his time outside digging with tractors so he always needs one as well.
Following dinner last night I announce it is bath time. My son asks, "C going to take a bath with me? You want to take a bath with me little girl?" How could I deny his petition? I decided to be brave and attempt to bathe them at the same time.
At the mention of bath my little girl begins pumping her arms and legs in anticipation--bouncing like a little jumping bean. When we get to the end of the hallway I leave C at the doorway to the bathroom. B races ahead of me because he wants to "start" the bath. No sooner had I helped him turn on the water when, to my amazement, I see my daughter climbing to her knees next to the bathtub. C began crawling a few weeks ago, but never has she moved so fast! She definitely didn't want to be left out of the fun.
And bath time was different this time. No one was crying at the end; we truly had a good time. Perhaps this is why my children are so thrilled with the announcement of bath time--we really can have a good time with one another. I just needed to be reminded of how much fun.
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Nicknames
My husband has a particular knack of finding nicknames for people. I have had a series of nicknames throughout our courtship. So it is none too surprising that he has been equally skillful in finding nicknames for our children.
My son's most popular nickname is "Bundles of Joyfulness" or "Bundles" for short. This is why I refer to my son as B in this blog. Just recently my husband has settled on a nickname for our daughter. She will now be known as... "Cutesie". This is why I refer to her as C in this blog.
I have no gift in this particular subject. I often call my son "Baby" and my daughter, to distinguish herself from my son, "Baby Girl". Not too brilliant, eh? I don't know what I'll do when the next one comes along; "Hey You" is probably not a good alternative...
My son's most popular nickname is "Bundles of Joyfulness" or "Bundles" for short. This is why I refer to my son as B in this blog. Just recently my husband has settled on a nickname for our daughter. She will now be known as...
I have no gift in this particular subject. I often call my son "Baby" and my daughter, to distinguish herself from my son, "Baby Girl". Not too brilliant, eh? I don't know what I'll do when the next one comes along; "Hey You" is probably not a good alternative...
Let the Waterworks Begin
Let there be water! Our home plans have gone through the necessary approval process and our contractor has been chomping at the bit, ready to get started building. We have been a little more hesitant in starting since we own a home that we want sold before we start building our new home. A few weeks ago our house went into escrow so we decided it was time to get the ball rolling on our new house.
The first order of business? Install a water meter on the property. We went through the necessary paperwork and were told it would be 3 to 6 weeks before the meter would be installed. So we figured things would start happening around the end of April.
Imagine our surprise when we drove by the property Monday and several sprinklers were running! We officially have water. However, water in the desert is very expensive. Today, we found the sprinklers still going or in the words of my husband, "Money is still raining on our property." We talked with the builder and learned that these sprinklers must run for a few days to completely saturate the ground. That will be one water bill I am not looking forward to seeing.
The first order of business? Install a water meter on the property. We went through the necessary paperwork and were told it would be 3 to 6 weeks before the meter would be installed. So we figured things would start happening around the end of April.
Imagine our surprise when we drove by the property Monday and several sprinklers were running! We officially have water. However, water in the desert is very expensive. Today, we found the sprinklers still going or in the words of my husband, "Money is still raining on our property." We talked with the builder and learned that these sprinklers must run for a few days to completely saturate the ground. That will be one water bill I am not looking forward to seeing.
Monday, April 2, 2007
Elephants
So my son, whom I will refer to as B, is almost 3 years old. These last few months have been a trying time for our relationship. Of course, my daughter, whom I will refer to as C, complicated my relationship with B. And then there is the potty training bit... I won't even go there.
But one of the fun things about this age is my son's new found ability to introduce imaginative play. Just today, right after breakfast, B comes running into the family room saying, "Mommy, look! An elephant! He's not scary. Come and see!" At which point he gleefully grabs my hand and pulls me along to the hallway. I, of course, play along with this ruse, "Oh, no! An elephant? Oh, I'm scared." B reassures me there is nothing to fear--after all, it is only a baby elephant.
At the end of the hall, we come face to face with the baby elephant, say our hellos, and then B scoops him up (evidently this baby elephant came palm sized). I suggest the baby elephant would enjoy being outside. B agrees and off we go to the backyard. B has a certain fascination with all things tractor related so his first order of business is to introduce the elephant to B's backhoe. The elephant rides inside the scoop of the backhoe while B pushes.
I then suggest the elephant may want to check out one of the slides. B hands the palm-sized fellow off to me and we walk over to one of the small slides. We watch as our little elephant slides down and then B picks him up to take him to another slide. At this point I suggest that the elephant may want B to slide down with him. So B climbs up the slide and down they go!
We had a few other adventures before the baby elephant bid us good-bye, but it was fun being pulled into my son's imaginative world for a short while. It is a wonder to watch my son continue to grow and learn. He amazes me.
But one of the fun things about this age is my son's new found ability to introduce imaginative play. Just today, right after breakfast, B comes running into the family room saying, "Mommy, look! An elephant! He's not scary. Come and see!" At which point he gleefully grabs my hand and pulls me along to the hallway. I, of course, play along with this ruse, "Oh, no! An elephant? Oh, I'm scared." B reassures me there is nothing to fear--after all, it is only a baby elephant.
At the end of the hall, we come face to face with the baby elephant, say our hellos, and then B scoops him up (evidently this baby elephant came palm sized). I suggest the baby elephant would enjoy being outside. B agrees and off we go to the backyard. B has a certain fascination with all things tractor related so his first order of business is to introduce the elephant to B's backhoe. The elephant rides inside the scoop of the backhoe while B pushes.
I then suggest the elephant may want to check out one of the slides. B hands the palm-sized fellow off to me and we walk over to one of the small slides. We watch as our little elephant slides down and then B picks him up to take him to another slide. At this point I suggest that the elephant may want B to slide down with him. So B climbs up the slide and down they go!
We had a few other adventures before the baby elephant bid us good-bye, but it was fun being pulled into my son's imaginative world for a short while. It is a wonder to watch my son continue to grow and learn. He amazes me.
We Own Dirt!
So the first part to building a home is to find land. Fortunately, we live in the desert so there is plenty of dirt to choose from--albeit expensive dirt. My mother sold her home first and used the proceeds of that sale to buy land. We now own 1 acre of dirt.
There is very little vegetation with the exception of weeds. But there are also some beautiful Joshua Trees. Some people do not care for Joshuas, but my husband loves them and is so happy to build on a lot with Joshua Trees.
Our lot has a good backyard view of the valley. It also faces North which is good for energy efficiency. One element most important to my husband is that our lot is serviced by a public utility. Many of the homes in the area are on well water, but my husband does not want to deal with a well.
So, we own dirt... expensive dirt. And soon our home will be built upon it.
There is very little vegetation with the exception of weeds. But there are also some beautiful Joshua Trees. Some people do not care for Joshuas, but my husband loves them and is so happy to build on a lot with Joshua Trees.
Our lot has a good backyard view of the valley. It also faces North which is good for energy efficiency. One element most important to my husband is that our lot is serviced by a public utility. Many of the homes in the area are on well water, but my husband does not want to deal with a well.
So, we own dirt... expensive dirt. And soon our home will be built upon it.
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Beginnings
At the advice of a good friend, we have decided to begin a blog of our own. The objective of this blog is to keep family and friends current on our lives. Since we have viewed very few blogs ourselves, this will be a work in progress.
I will probably be the author of most of our blogs, so let me introduce myself. I am a late twenties wife with two adorable children, my son who will be turning 3 this week and my 9 month old daughter. My husband and I currently live with my mother. She can no longer care for herself in her own home (even though she lived only 3 doors down from us), so we have decided to sell our homes and build one house for us all to live in comfortably.
Part of our decision to begin this blog is to chronicle the building of our new home. But we would also like a place to tell of our other adventures--most notably, the raising of our young family.
I will probably be the author of most of our blogs, so let me introduce myself. I am a late twenties wife with two adorable children, my son who will be turning 3 this week and my 9 month old daughter. My husband and I currently live with my mother. She can no longer care for herself in her own home (even though she lived only 3 doors down from us), so we have decided to sell our homes and build one house for us all to live in comfortably.
Part of our decision to begin this blog is to chronicle the building of our new home. But we would also like a place to tell of our other adventures--most notably, the raising of our young family.
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