2.29.2008
Baby Care
Our neighbors Shayne and Stephanie (who put up with a lot from us--we love having such great neightbors!) sent us a funny email, "Instructions for Baby Care." As I scrolled down the 19 tips, I can honestly say we followed all of them but one. . . . I am just hoping Chris got some kick backs for posing for this picture. Oh well. I guess 18 out of 19 'aint bad . . .
2.28.2008
Fore!
So, I started a new class tonight-- and one that is only tangentially related to law school. I signed up for a beginning golf class way back in October or whenever it was that I registered for this semester, and have been debating ever since whether I would keep it because of time constraints, blah, blah. My first class session was for two hours this evening, and we spent the whole time talking about approaching the ball, learning a neutral, interlocking grip, setting up a square stance and club head placement. (Incidentally, I am no expert, but I think that the 9 iron I had was an inch too short for me--I felt really hunched over.) I am glad that I did not drop the class-- not because I think that I will have lots of time for this, but because I need new experiences to keep me from stagnating.
I don't know what it is about me that makes it so difficult to reach out to new experiences. It's been this way since I was little. I never learned to play a sport on my own initiative until I was a junior in high school-- and I loved it. I was, by no means, a consummate athlete, but I learned things about myself that year that are still cherished parts of who I am. I don't know when I identified my tendency to shy away from things that I don't already feel a part of, but it is something that I am slowly fighting against; I do better some times, and much worse than I would like to admit some others.
It's like this--and I hope that someone out there can relate--I somehow feel alienated from things that I feel no... possession of, even if I find them to be really attractive. It's like I have to be invited in to be a part of the club in order to feel like it is okay for me to get involved in golf, or sports, or new books, or student government, or scuba diving or Settlers of Catan, for crying out loud. I am trying to fight against the tendency to feel foreclosed from things that I have not tried before, but sometimes it is tough. It's like I feel resentment that I am left out of things that other people seem to enjoy, yet I have never made the threshold steps to become involved because somehow I feel like I just... can't. I don't like it, and I want to change it. Does anyone else ever feel this way? Maybe it is just me.
P.S. I cannot believe i just wrote a post with the tag, "feelings." I'm a guy for crying out loud!
I don't know what it is about me that makes it so difficult to reach out to new experiences. It's been this way since I was little. I never learned to play a sport on my own initiative until I was a junior in high school-- and I loved it. I was, by no means, a consummate athlete, but I learned things about myself that year that are still cherished parts of who I am. I don't know when I identified my tendency to shy away from things that I don't already feel a part of, but it is something that I am slowly fighting against; I do better some times, and much worse than I would like to admit some others.
It's like this--and I hope that someone out there can relate--I somehow feel alienated from things that I feel no... possession of, even if I find them to be really attractive. It's like I have to be invited in to be a part of the club in order to feel like it is okay for me to get involved in golf, or sports, or new books, or student government, or scuba diving or Settlers of Catan, for crying out loud. I am trying to fight against the tendency to feel foreclosed from things that I have not tried before, but sometimes it is tough. It's like I feel resentment that I am left out of things that other people seem to enjoy, yet I have never made the threshold steps to become involved because somehow I feel like I just... can't. I don't like it, and I want to change it. Does anyone else ever feel this way? Maybe it is just me.
P.S. I cannot believe i just wrote a post with the tag, "feelings." I'm a guy for crying out loud!
2.26.2008
Poll Results
I appreciate all of you who voted on our poll last week-- I realize that the subject matter was a bit unorthodox, but I would like to use this space to talk about things that really get us thinking-- not just the things that come up when our brains are in neutral.
Last week's question, which was about what you think you would do and/or feel if one of your children revealed to you that he was homosexual, was not intended to really smoke out surprising results, but to get us all thinking about applications of our relationships and faith in situations that we would probably prefer never to be in.
The overwhelming majority of you (81%) would try to reassure your child that he was still loved, and almost as many (75%) said that you would be shocked and unsure of what to do. Only two of you (12%) said that you would try to talk him out of his choice of sexual preference, but the same number said that they would invite their son to bring his boyfriend to dinner. About half of you said that you would feel angry or betrayed (43%), and exactly half of you said that you would describe your reaction as "devastated."
I don't really have any scientific analysis to offer on the basis of these responses, but I have appreciated your votes over the last week because watching the poll results come in has kept me thinking about what I need to be doing now to protect my sons from the influences which prevent them from fulfilling their potential; and about how I need to respond when they will (like I did) do things to disappoint their parents.
I'll have a new question up shortly, I'm looking forward to seeing you weigh in!
Last week's question, which was about what you think you would do and/or feel if one of your children revealed to you that he was homosexual, was not intended to really smoke out surprising results, but to get us all thinking about applications of our relationships and faith in situations that we would probably prefer never to be in.
The overwhelming majority of you (81%) would try to reassure your child that he was still loved, and almost as many (75%) said that you would be shocked and unsure of what to do. Only two of you (12%) said that you would try to talk him out of his choice of sexual preference, but the same number said that they would invite their son to bring his boyfriend to dinner. About half of you said that you would feel angry or betrayed (43%), and exactly half of you said that you would describe your reaction as "devastated."
I don't really have any scientific analysis to offer on the basis of these responses, but I have appreciated your votes over the last week because watching the poll results come in has kept me thinking about what I need to be doing now to protect my sons from the influences which prevent them from fulfilling their potential; and about how I need to respond when they will (like I did) do things to disappoint their parents.
I'll have a new question up shortly, I'm looking forward to seeing you weigh in!
2.25.2008
Watch a Movie!?
It really is more of a statement than a question. I think it's probably Ian's favorite (and most used) line. We are slowly trying to reasonably cap Ian's cinematic entertainment since Cooper was born and life went a little nuts. I really try to keep it to less than one movie/show a day. Though Daddy is much better at sitting down with Ian, relaxing together and making it a time to spend with Ian. They are also both much better than Mommy at getting mesmerized by the pictures on the screen! :) Cooper, on the other hand, looks a little bored; but I am sure it won't be long before I have both of them ganging up on me saying, "Watch a movie!" I am suddenly recalling something about men and the remote control . . . I am afraid I might be outvoted on this one.
We don't really watch much TV (which makes it quite frustrating that our 'lil setup's sound is freaking out on us; do we really want or need to spent money on a new TV? But it's hard not to admit it would be nicer to have a bigger screen to watch movies on . . . decisions, decisions). If the TV is on, it is usually a DVD for Ian or a few PBS shows, such as Ian's new favorite, Super Why! Which I have to admit is quite adorable. Especially when the "Hip Hip Hurray" song comes on at the end and Ian jumps up and excitedly asks me to join in. So Ian and I dance around the living room, having a great time. It just tickles me that he wants to do this; like the two of us are establishing some little rituals. The show also teaches good problem solving/work together skills (heck, I'm a therapist, I like it whenever I can find an application to teach social/emotional skills) plus it is helping Ian learn his ABC's. Ian says he is Super Why, Mommy is Princess Pea, and Daddy is the Pig (I think Chris is about sick of hearing about which animals Ian thinks Daddy resembles . . .). Super Readers to the rescue!
2.22.2008
What a Memory!
It is amazing to me how much Ian can remember; he's done this for a long time (like knowing which street to turn on to go to Grandie's house). This morning at breakfast he was telling me: "Kermit got hit by yellow car . . . went to the hospital . . . went to lunch. . . . He had hair . . . the girl and the bad man . . ." This may not make much sense out of context, but he was giving a great synopsis of the latter half of The Muppets Take Manhattan. We sure love this kid! He sure makes life absolutely HILARIOUS! Never a dull moment around here. :)
A Striking Resemblance
Thanks to Chris's mom, Chris and I went out on a date on Monday night. We went to Sushi Ya and had all-you-can-eat sushi (I have grown to like most kinds now, yay! I was so sad a few years ago when Robyn took me for the first time and I didn't like it . . . so just for the record, it can be an acquired taste!) Chris and I had a great just talking and enjoying each other's company. I had raw fish for the first time and actually quite enjoyed myself! My favorite were the Crystal Shrimp sushi. We even tried Tobikko (flying fish eggs) for the first time and decided that at least we can say we have tried it, but we are not big fans! A little too fishy for our tastes. After dinner we went to Borders and bro
wsed for awhile. We ended up in the children's section and read a few stories (just so ya know, SkippyJohnJones is a hilarious book, especially when you do the voices). I hadn't seen the book Harold and the Purple Crayon in quite some time, but had a fun time looking through it again. That, and I decided that Cooper looks a lot like cute 'lil Harold! So if you've ever wondered what you would look like as a cartoon, you now have an idea of what Cooper would look like! :)
2.20.2008
Daddy Jungle Gym
Chris is great at playing with the boys. Ian gets a kick out of it and I love watching (I think I need to get in on the playing more often. I am grateful for a Daddy who loves his boys, love spending time with them, and loves being a Dad.
Don't mind Cooper's face; we are still working on his expressions.
Hooked on phonics worked for me!
In-fang-er
So this isn't meant to offend anyone who has ever mispronounced or misspelled our last name; It's kind of a daunting name to attempt; we applaud your efforts. Mostly, I find it hilarious, all the different things people come up with (ya'll are quite creative!) and decided that it would be entertaining for us to keep track of them over the years. I obviously have only been in on this for the last 5 1/2 years (though I have known Chris's sister, Val, since 7th grade and didn't think it was that weird of a last name). But going from my maiden name, Lamb, to Infanger, some adjustments have been necessary . . . I can't even count the blank stares and confused looks I get when people hear me say our name or try to read it from print. It is especially great over the phone; you have to be careful to say, "'F' as in 'Frank'" when spelling it, because often the "f" sounds like an "s" (which is totally true, I have a hard time with those sounds over the phone, too). Most of the time when I get these reactions from people I (no offense, Infangers) tell the person, no worries--5 years later and I am still getting used to it, too.
You'll have to come back and check this post from time to time, just to see our growing list. Here goes:
So this isn't meant to offend anyone who has ever mispronounced or misspelled our last name; It's kind of a daunting name to attempt; we applaud your efforts. Mostly, I find it hilarious, all the different things people come up with (ya'll are quite creative!) and decided that it would be entertaining for us to keep track of them over the years. I obviously have only been in on this for the last 5 1/2 years (though I have known Chris's sister, Val, since 7th grade and didn't think it was that weird of a last name). But going from my maiden name, Lamb, to Infanger, some adjustments have been necessary . . . I can't even count the blank stares and confused looks I get when people hear me say our name or try to read it from print. It is especially great over the phone; you have to be careful to say, "'F' as in 'Frank'" when spelling it, because often the "f" sounds like an "s" (which is totally true, I have a hard time with those sounds over the phone, too). Most of the time when I get these reactions from people I (no offense, Infangers) tell the person, no worries--5 years later and I am still getting used to it, too.
You'll have to come back and check this post from time to time, just to see our growing list. Here goes:
- In-fag-ger (probably the worst yet; halfway through the semester of my Social Work statistics class, good 'ol Dr. Panos is handing back papers and pauses before he comes up with this . . . the funniest part is Chris's cousin Carries was in the class--her Mom is Rex's sister, so her maiden name was Infanger--and she gets totally irritated and practically yells, "It's In-fang-er!" at him. It was great!)
- Indauger (Chris's Office Depot account)
- Insanger (Hale Center theater tickets/mailings)
- In-funj-er
- In-fun-gur
- In-fan-ger
- In-finger
- Enfanger
- Iffinger
- Infauger (this is how Chris was registered to vote in Provo)
A New Favorite
So I ate a whole bowl of candy today. For those who know me well--sweets aren't exactly my thing--so this may be a little shocking to some. Give me a bag of chips or popcorn or fries (or a salt lick, for cryin' out loud) and I am a happy gal. But I was recently introduced to a great sweet treat!
For those who, like me, had never previously seen, heard of, or eaten such a treat . . . meet Bridge Mix--a variety of raisins, peanuts, and almonds covered in milk and dark chocolate as well as milk chocolate pecans and cashews make up this chocolate bridge mix. Can I just tell you the cashew ones are to die for? A hint for other moms who hit the mid-day rush when lunch and naptime for multiple children are creeping far too quickly upon you: Bridge Mix is a great filler/pick-me-up until you actually have time to sit down and feed yourself. :p I guess for me this isn't a complete sweet treat, 'cause I also get my nut/salty fix. Best of both worlds, eh? Come to think of it, I guess I do like fries and Frosties and Kettle Corn. What can I say? My taste buds must have multiple personalities--Sweet and Salty must be good friends!
P.S. Sorry Chris, it is gone--I ate all that was left! (But at least now you know another treat you can bring home to me. He he!)
For those who, like me, had never previously seen, heard of, or eaten such a treat . . . meet Bridge Mix--a variety of raisins, peanuts, and almonds covered in milk and dark chocolate as well as milk chocolate pecans and cashews make up this chocolate bridge mix. Can I just tell you the cashew ones are to die for? A hint for other moms who hit the mid-day rush when lunch and naptime for multiple children are creeping far too quickly upon you: Bridge Mix is a great filler/pick-me-up until you actually have time to sit down and feed yourself. :p I guess for me this isn't a complete sweet treat, 'cause I also get my nut/salty fix. Best of both worlds, eh? Come to think of it, I guess I do like fries and Frosties and Kettle Corn. What can I say? My taste buds must have multiple personalities--Sweet and Salty must be good friends!P.S. Sorry Chris, it is gone--I ate all that was left! (But at least now you know another treat you can bring home to me. He he!)
Cabin Fever, anyone?
I got this in an email today and thought it pretty much summed up how I am feeling lately: "'Cabin Fever: a state characterized by anxiety, restlessness, and boredom, arising from a prolonged stay in a remote or confined place.' I don't know about the rest of you, but I am ready for Spring and sunshine and the good old outdoors. Anybody else?" All I have to say to that is--Amen!
With a 2 month old and 2 1/2 year old that we have been trying to keep well, the days have been pretty long staying indoors. This morning I got out of the house with the boys for a dentist appointment and a stake Primary meeting. Not very exciting, but huge progress for me! I need to be better at planning more outings even if they are not actually outside! Any suggestions of places to go for such activities would be much appreciated! I think poor Ian is about sick of being indoors. That's just the problem--we don't want to get sick, so we've been pretty careful about where we go, with whom, and when, just to be safe--even if it is indoors. The dang germs! I am glad spring is getting closer--I am so excited to go out on walks with the boys (I really could use the exercise) and to play outdoors!! I love springtime! So my vote is--cabin fever move over . . . SPRING FEVER (n. a feeling of restlessness, excitement, or laziness brought on by the coming of spring) is here!
With a 2 month old and 2 1/2 year old that we have been trying to keep well, the days have been pretty long staying indoors. This morning I got out of the house with the boys for a dentist appointment and a stake Primary meeting. Not very exciting, but huge progress for me! I need to be better at planning more outings even if they are not actually outside! Any suggestions of places to go for such activities would be much appreciated! I think poor Ian is about sick of being indoors. That's just the problem--we don't want to get sick, so we've been pretty careful about where we go, with whom, and when, just to be safe--even if it is indoors. The dang germs! I am glad spring is getting closer--I am so excited to go out on walks with the boys (I really could use the exercise) and to play outdoors!! I love springtime! So my vote is--cabin fever move over . . . SPRING FEVER (n. a feeling of restlessness, excitement, or laziness brought on by the coming of spring) is here!
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