Ohhhhh! Dog-gonit, I burnt the beans.....that was supposed to be for dinner. Anyone that knows, me knows how I cook...or try to. I sorted through to remove the funky beans, rinsed them, seasoned them and put them in a large pot with lots of water. Ok so maybe I was trying to speed cook on high, my taste buds were really set to a bean rice and cheese burrito. These are the days I miss driving down to the corner store in San Diego.... Well, it was actually a wood pallet propped on it's side using fruit to hold it up, with a big tattered blue tarp hanging off the other side for shade. You'd often see little old ladies manning it and sweeping the dirt between customers. These were the BEST!!!! Authentic B,R,C burrito made by an authentic Mexican.....not my greenga self.
So yeah, your probably asking what we did for dinner. We opted for the second plan of going to get pizza. Boo-hoo!
I give up. I think Mac n' Cheese is the only thing I can fix without using my fathers finishing 'well done' touch....I'm doomed. Max did say he didn't marry me because I could cook. Good thing huh?!?!?! I know it would make him happy if I could though....cooking lessons? Anyone?
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Monday, August 27, 2007
Tonights visitor
It's 12:48am (or 00:48 for 'those' kind of people) and I'm protesting having to sleep in my room. Why? I'm so glad you asked! After bathing the kids like we do every night, we were all kicking back on our bed talking. Why is it my eye sight is so great at seeing dirt in my house and a multi-legged critter run across the wall? GASP! Yup, your eye sight isn't going either. I managed to jump and scream with a little one attached at breast quicker then the time I realized doing a handstand on a bike with flipflops was impossible. It ran at a 45...(NO Bub, not literally...remember guns arent permited for my use here in Japan) to the top part of the wall. I was so afraid it came it to enjoy the A/C with us because I was sure it was fixin' to get lost in there. For those that aren't here to enjoy the "push and hope you got the right kanji symbol" Japanese style A/C, they are up on the top part of the wall and the little vents open and close. Anyway, by this time I looked at the Dear Husband and told him it was his turn since one actually made an appearance for him. The man comes back with a cup! Since when did he care about the things feelings? Squash the sucker, he'll never have the guts to run in on us again. Eeek! First attempt- it falls to the floor.....by where the kids sleep. He flips up the matress, even though the Japanese cockroach is big enough to lift it alone, and said it ran under the bed. I then realized that was Kalee's hiding spot for things like the skirt she dosen't like to wear and the jacket I wanted to throw away. ....and the mouse size "la cookaratcha" came dancing full speed towards me. BUT, my husband saved my life and captured it under a cup. I gave him the "now what are you gunna do" look. He slid a cardboard piece between he carpet and cup. Wshew! I asked "What? Are you gunna set it free" while lifting the toilet seat up. my rule is: Bugs can live, but NOT with me. Your home is outside, you live there. My home is inside, you don't stand a chance around me....even if your guts do splatter. Off he went to live with the fishies...just like goldie did a couple years ago.
I later got to thinking if Bear would have seen that flush, what else would I have had to call housing to pull out of the toilet. I think a toothbrush, bobby pin, hair barette, straw, bath toy fish, and Little People animal is enough for this year.
Hope you all sleep multi-legged, 3 inch, fast charging critter free.
I later got to thinking if Bear would have seen that flush, what else would I have had to call housing to pull out of the toilet. I think a toothbrush, bobby pin, hair barette, straw, bath toy fish, and Little People animal is enough for this year.
Hope you all sleep multi-legged, 3 inch, fast charging critter free.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Back by popular questioning
Many are still asking to read the letter about breastfeeding I sent to the Commanding Officers of the base, legal and the hospital (along with about 30 other people) back in June. Well here it is. At least now I somewhere to refer the nosy questioners to. *Note- I did remove the names...only because I thought it would be the right thing to do. And yeah it's long.
Captain _____,
Good Day. My Name is Averi. I called Commanders Corner this month in regards to breastfeeding in the CPO club. I spoke with CMC ____ via phone mid May regarding an issue involving one of my friends breastfeeding in the club on Mothers Day. I provided him with all my contact information and have yet to hear anything. Since this seems to be an ongoing problem at the CPO club, I felt the need to contact you.
In hearing your response on Commanders Corner, it is my understanding, that if a child is breastfed in the club, it is to be done tactfully. A nursing mother needs to be respectful of those around her, by making sure that her breast is covered, and nothing is showing . In regards to that point, I am in total agreement. I respect the fact that others do not share my passion to use the gifts God gave me to bear and sustain my child in his first years. I am a conservative woman who hardly likes to wear shorts because they show skin. That being said, I am also a conservative nursing mom working toward my BA in Maternal/Child health concentrating in Lactation. I wear nursing shirts most of the time to avoid my stomach or back showing. I understand the many benefits of breastfeeding. I am NOT willing to compromise my child's health and well being by submitting to someones demand that I feed him in an unsanitary location.
On June 21st, I was in the CPO club enjoying my favorite salad with a friend. I was approached by an Assistant Manager named ____ who was pregnant. She asked me to feed my child in the restroom lounge to avoid offending others in the dining room. What about offending me and my child? We are patrons as well, right? All you need to do is stand at the ladies room door, open it, and smell why I won't sit in there, let alone feed my child there. Do you realize that a flushed toilet can have an off spray of up to 20 feet? I scold my children when they take food into the bathroom. What message does that send to them, when I agree to feed my son there? It would never be demanded that a mother feed her child in the bathroom if the child ate food or drank a bottle. Yet, this is what was demanded of me.
My response to the Assistant Manager was "When you start serving everyone else in the restroom lounge area, I will consider feeding my child in there. Until then, he is eating where I am". She then asked me to cover up if I choose to stay in the dining area. Sir, mind you I was wearing a nursing shirt that was specifically designed to feed discreetly. The club was not busy. Tables immediately surrounding mine were unoccupied. My friend and I looked down and realized you could not even see my son's face. My shirt covered everything but his ear. How much more does she want me to cover? My arms and legs were the only skin showing! My breast was not out on a platter! When my children were under 6 months I was able to throw a blanket over my shoulder and cover the whole child. Now that he's bigger, he pulls it off. Can you blame him? When was the last time you ate under a blanket in the middle of summer?
After the manager left my table I was approached by a father who had his children with him. He commended me, and felt I did nothing wrong. He saw I was upset and informed me that neither he nor his children were uncomfortable. He dropped me his business card which I would be glad to provide you. I'm sure he too will tell you nothing was visible.
The Manager soon returned to the table 'clarifying the rule'. She said, if it's staff complaining, they will handle it; if it's another patron complaining, they will address it. So, what exactly is the rule? Where can I find this 'rule' in black and white? Where does it state that a manager can ask a covered breastfeeding mother to feed their child in an unsanitary restroom area? From the circumstances, I gather that someone who works there is unhappy with the 'act' of breastfeeding. Our waitress' service was less than commendable. Maybe, she has the issue. I don't know.
It appears the CPO club is the only place my fellow breastfeeding friends and I have had issues. According to FFSC Breastfeeding Basics class, a mother can breast feed anywhere on base. I have spoken with NLSO and was informed there is no law against breastfeeding on base.
Am I not protected by "breastfeeding on federal property?"
You mentioned on air, if there were any breastfeeding mothers that would be interested in discussing this with you further, you would be glad to meet with us. At this time, I feel the need to do so. After speaking with a few nursing friends they would also welcome the discussion. Ultimately, I would like this base known as a breastfeeding friendly base. Of course, I acknowledge that it needs to be done while respecting others. Please contact me at any time. I would like everyone to be crystal clear on this topic that has unfortunately become an issue.
By the way, I was told by several people in Labor & Delivery that the hospital is working on a baby friendly initiative, encouraging breastfeeding. I welcome this initiative, and believe that breastfeeding should be encouraged, not hidden!
Respectfully,
Averi ____
So if it's not about a mothers' right to breastfeed, what is it about?
It's about a baby's right to eat!
Captain _____,
Good Day. My Name is Averi. I called Commanders Corner this month in regards to breastfeeding in the CPO club. I spoke with CMC ____ via phone mid May regarding an issue involving one of my friends breastfeeding in the club on Mothers Day. I provided him with all my contact information and have yet to hear anything. Since this seems to be an ongoing problem at the CPO club, I felt the need to contact you.
In hearing your response on Commanders Corner, it is my understanding, that if a child is breastfed in the club, it is to be done tactfully. A nursing mother needs to be respectful of those around her, by making sure that her breast is covered, and nothing is showing . In regards to that point, I am in total agreement. I respect the fact that others do not share my passion to use the gifts God gave me to bear and sustain my child in his first years. I am a conservative woman who hardly likes to wear shorts because they show skin. That being said, I am also a conservative nursing mom working toward my BA in Maternal/Child health concentrating in Lactation. I wear nursing shirts most of the time to avoid my stomach or back showing. I understand the many benefits of breastfeeding. I am NOT willing to compromise my child's health and well being by submitting to someones demand that I feed him in an unsanitary location.
On June 21st, I was in the CPO club enjoying my favorite salad with a friend. I was approached by an Assistant Manager named ____ who was pregnant. She asked me to feed my child in the restroom lounge to avoid offending others in the dining room. What about offending me and my child? We are patrons as well, right? All you need to do is stand at the ladies room door, open it, and smell why I won't sit in there, let alone feed my child there. Do you realize that a flushed toilet can have an off spray of up to 20 feet? I scold my children when they take food into the bathroom. What message does that send to them, when I agree to feed my son there? It would never be demanded that a mother feed her child in the bathroom if the child ate food or drank a bottle. Yet, this is what was demanded of me.
My response to the Assistant Manager was "When you start serving everyone else in the restroom lounge area, I will consider feeding my child in there. Until then, he is eating where I am". She then asked me to cover up if I choose to stay in the dining area. Sir, mind you I was wearing a nursing shirt that was specifically designed to feed discreetly. The club was not busy. Tables immediately surrounding mine were unoccupied. My friend and I looked down and realized you could not even see my son's face. My shirt covered everything but his ear. How much more does she want me to cover? My arms and legs were the only skin showing! My breast was not out on a platter! When my children were under 6 months I was able to throw a blanket over my shoulder and cover the whole child. Now that he's bigger, he pulls it off. Can you blame him? When was the last time you ate under a blanket in the middle of summer?
After the manager left my table I was approached by a father who had his children with him. He commended me, and felt I did nothing wrong. He saw I was upset and informed me that neither he nor his children were uncomfortable. He dropped me his business card which I would be glad to provide you. I'm sure he too will tell you nothing was visible.
The Manager soon returned to the table 'clarifying the rule'. She said, if it's staff complaining, they will handle it; if it's another patron complaining, they will address it. So, what exactly is the rule? Where can I find this 'rule' in black and white? Where does it state that a manager can ask a covered breastfeeding mother to feed their child in an unsanitary restroom area? From the circumstances, I gather that someone who works there is unhappy with the 'act' of breastfeeding. Our waitress' service was less than commendable. Maybe, she has the issue. I don't know.
It appears the CPO club is the only place my fellow breastfeeding friends and I have had issues. According to FFSC Breastfeeding Basics class, a mother can breast feed anywhere on base. I have spoken with NLSO and was informed there is no law against breastfeeding on base.
Am I not protected by "breastfeeding on federal property?"
You mentioned on air, if there were any breastfeeding mothers that would be interested in discussing this with you further, you would be glad to meet with us. At this time, I feel the need to do so. After speaking with a few nursing friends they would also welcome the discussion. Ultimately, I would like this base known as a breastfeeding friendly base. Of course, I acknowledge that it needs to be done while respecting others. Please contact me at any time. I would like everyone to be crystal clear on this topic that has unfortunately become an issue.
By the way, I was told by several people in Labor & Delivery that the hospital is working on a baby friendly initiative, encouraging breastfeeding. I welcome this initiative, and believe that breastfeeding should be encouraged, not hidden!
Respectfully,
Averi ____
So if it's not about a mothers' right to breastfeed, what is it about?
It's about a baby's right to eat!
Old Papa and VBS
The conversation this morning went something like this:
Me: "Hurry up Church is starting and we have to walk."
K: "Cant you drive?"
Me: "No Dad took the van today so we could sleep in", (he has duty) "You know your going to have to get on stage and sing the songs you learned from VBS today, right?"
K: "Like the one about Jesus being nailed to the cross and dieing?"
Me: "Yes, what does it mean to die babie?"
K: " Umm, you fall and bonk your head. Then it bleeds and you have to go to the Dr. and you die. You know, like the old Papa Mommy" (few seconds later) "Mom I want to go see Nanu and the Old Papa"
Me: "Babie, but he died. He is not alive anymore.
Needless to say I had a little explaining that Jesus was the only one nailed to the tree, laid in the tomb, and then rise from the dead. It registered a little differently after this years VBS and death of Old Papa she loved, remembers, and still talks about.
VBS was a great Avalanche Ranch theme:
Monday-
Bible Point: God is real.
“The Lord is the only true God” (Jeremiah 10:10).
Tuesday
Bible Point: God is with us.
“For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Wednesday
Bible Point: God is strong.
“The Lord is my strength” (Psalm 118:14).
Thursday
Bible Point: God is awesome.
“For the Lord Most High is awesome” (Psalm 47:2).
Friday
Bible Point: God is in charge.
If you love me, obey my commandments” (John 14:15).
YEEEEEEEEEEE-HAWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!
Not to my surprise, Bear even learned the signs to all the songs. I guess it's nice he had previous exposure to sign language. Now he is signing that his sisters baby needs "nu-nu". Time to exit stage left.
Me: "Hurry up Church is starting and we have to walk."
K: "Cant you drive?"
Me: "No Dad took the van today so we could sleep in", (he has duty) "You know your going to have to get on stage and sing the songs you learned from VBS today, right?"
K: "Like the one about Jesus being nailed to the cross and dieing?"
Me: "Yes, what does it mean to die babie?"
K: " Umm, you fall and bonk your head. Then it bleeds and you have to go to the Dr. and you die. You know, like the old Papa Mommy" (few seconds later) "Mom I want to go see Nanu and the Old Papa"
Me: "Babie, but he died. He is not alive anymore.
Needless to say I had a little explaining that Jesus was the only one nailed to the tree, laid in the tomb, and then rise from the dead. It registered a little differently after this years VBS and death of Old Papa she loved, remembers, and still talks about.
VBS was a great Avalanche Ranch theme:
Monday-
Bible Point: God is real.
“The Lord is the only true God” (Jeremiah 10:10).
Tuesday
Bible Point: God is with us.
“For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Wednesday
Bible Point: God is strong.
“The Lord is my strength” (Psalm 118:14).
Thursday
Bible Point: God is awesome.
“For the Lord Most High is awesome” (Psalm 47:2).
Friday
Bible Point: God is in charge.
If you love me, obey my commandments” (John 14:15).
YEEEEEEEEEEE-HAWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!
Not to my surprise, Bear even learned the signs to all the songs. I guess it's nice he had previous exposure to sign language. Now he is signing that his sisters baby needs "nu-nu". Time to exit stage left.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Sickening Smell- CPO picnic
Wow! I feel like tossing cookies...literally. How I volunteered to bake 4 boxes of Brownies and 4 large tubes of cookies I don't know. Many will agree that I can put some sweets away. Especially the weird ones like circus peanuts or salt water taffy but that is besides the point. I finished the brownies yesterday and cookies this morning.....I'm so done! I get "Mommy, Mommy, Mommy- can I have a Cookie? Can I?" At 8:30 in the mornin'? Child you must be out of your mind! Why did I volunteer to bake? Because I certainly can't cook! No really, I can't. Well you see, today the CMC and his Wife hosted a picnic for the Chief's, Chief Selects (only Navy understands), and families. Since I was shocked by the fact the Chiefs weren't getting together to have a drunk fest at the Honch (bar strip after dark), I volunteered my services. I wish this kind of 'family' interaction begun....oh, say about a year ago! Oh well. I learned from a wife's stand point the "Mess" is just that. Didn't surprise me either that spouses put chap stick on before the Captain and family joined for a brief time. Should somebody tell them to check their noses in the mirror? Since old salty sailors were involved, I was shocked that the turnout was quite sober. Hope to see more of these kind of events. I'll be sure to donate the chap stick, I like the laugh.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Yeah, this may be good.
I'll give blogging a shot. This may help some of our wonderful family and friends that call us oh so often keep in touch with our latest so we can $ave on the phone bill. Lots will be happening the next few months, like moving...nothing new though. Now that we lived here for 2 1.2 years it's actually getting kinda stagnant. Oh well since moving gets old looks like we will have to wait for retirement...he'll be in bed with me every night then...that's new! Me, being sarcastic? Nah, Mom taught me not to do that. I'm just speakin' my mind. ;) This is the only *WARNING* message you will get, I'll publish my feelings so don't get butt hurt.
Here it is. Where you can hear all about Max's latest happenings, the stories of Bear peeing in my mop bucket, me stirring the pot about breastfeeding on base, or Kalee insisting she needs size 5 clothes when she turns 5.
Hope to note that "your a reader" when I talk to you next.
Here it is. Where you can hear all about Max's latest happenings, the stories of Bear peeing in my mop bucket, me stirring the pot about breastfeeding on base, or Kalee insisting she needs size 5 clothes when she turns 5.
Hope to note that "your a reader" when I talk to you next.
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