Thinking Ahead to 2015

Dear Friends and Family,

I know. I know. We're not even through the holidays and I'm beginning to think ahead to the new year. But, I want to. So, I guess that's what I'll do.

I think I'm happy now. Well, I'm happier than I was in April when my job got eliminated. I think I'm done with old work. There's two friends I keep in touch with for lunch every so often. I don't miss anyone else. Everyone else I keep in touch with through other channels that seem like they're outside of old work.

I will be happier once we sort through all of the December bills. We've gotten lax on the budget because there's a lot of buying and returning that happens in December. We need to get through all of the returning in January and then see where we're at. I'm 99% certain we're okay. I just don't like not knowing the number. It's not a good habit.

So, January, we'll be back on a budget. Actually, when Mr. mouse gets home tonight we need to get back to tracking. There's some grey area in December, but that's no reason to throw in the towel on the rest of the month. And, I need to keep the grey area at bay for January with our big party. I'll just need to make sure Mr. mouse is good about giving me all of the receipts.

I think sometime in 2015 we'll be back to square one where we've paid off our loan to ourselves. Then, sometime in 2016 we'll be back to where we want to be where we have more money set aside for fun things. I think being on a budget for 2014, while painful, was good for us. No. I KNOW being on a budget for 2014, while painful, was good for us. I guess we'll continue for 2015.

I want to get my website up and running in 2015. I want a real email address. I was a real website. I think both of those things will be good things. That, and I want to get my workers compensation insurance straightened out. I need three years worth of experience to get lower rates. One down. Two to go. But, I need my finances to work with the current rates. I think I'll be able to once I adjust for a more accurate payroll forecast.

I want to either get the house in order or my health in order. I think inevitably the two are tied. But, both take time. I think I'll focus on my health for the first half of the year. Then, if I feel like I've figured out a routine then I can spend the second half of the year on the house. Can I live with the current disaster for six more months? I guess. I'd rather do that than over commit.

So, I guess my top three are:

1. continue plugging away at the budget
2. spend time growing the business, figuring out the website, insurance and year end filings
3. spend time on my health, check back in with myself in March to see how all of this is going

That's a good list. I feel better already.


Cheers!
mouse

Hump Day, 1:45pm

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Wednesday and not only am I alive, I'm feeling quite well.

Tomorrow, I've got a handful of gifts to wrap. I need to pick up one or two hostess gifts. I have expense reports that need to be filed. I have mail to go through. I have insurance to figure out. But, outside of that, I'm pretty much done for the week. I know, that list sounds daunting, but after what I've dragged myself through, it feels downright festive.

I'm off to pick up P and then we're headed to nap and swim. I might nap as well, we'll see. I feel like I've more than earned it ;)


Cheers!
mouse

12.15.14: It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

Dear Friends and Family,

We had a very productive yet very enjoyable weekend. We went to two birthday parties and one Christmas party. We got new haircuts for P and me. Hers looks precious. Mine would look better if I lost some weight. We got our eyes examined. We went to the park. We finished our Christmas shopping, almost. And, I fell asleep on the couch to the smell of Christmas.

And, now, it's Monday. After two weeks of grinding away at our task list and at Mr. mouse over Christmas stuff, I'm beginning to feel more calm and collected. I feel like we've got time and space to breathe and relax.

It's a busy week this week, but I feel like we can get to done. Today, I need to go shower and then buy one last gift for Mr. mouse. Then, I think I'll pick up some wrapping paper on the way home and start wrapping P's presents. I'd love to get a couple under the tree before I pick her up from school.


Cheers!
mouse

mouse Falls Down the Rabbit Hole

Dear Friends and Family,

Wow. Has it really been close to a week? Well. I'm in a much better spot now than I was all week so perhaps it's a good thing.

We've had grey, cloudy, wet days for awhile now. And, with the shortened days, I was really challenged to try and keep my head on straight.

And, I had a disgustingly gruesome technology update project that involved me babysitting two computers for close to two weeks. That is done and was successful.

And, I had to bully Mr. mouse into completing Christmas cards. And, they have been mailed.

And, today, Mr. mouse and I are going Christmas shopping. That will be another major task crossed off of the list, if we can get it done between now and when we go to sleep tonight.

So, I'm in a better spot. And, we're grinding towards the end of the year. Tomorrow will be a throw away day. But, if I can get the presents done today, I'll be okay. Wish me luck!


Cheers!
mouse

Frustrated P

Dear Friends and Family,

P needs to learn the butterfly kick to advance to the next level. That's the only thing she has left to learn. And, she wants to learn in. But, it's hard.

Mr. mouse tried to teach her something or other in her bath. I watched and it didn't look right. Then, at swim yesterday, P tried to do what Mr. mouse taught her. But, it wasn't right. Then, she tried to combine what Mr. mouse told her to do with what her teacher told her to do. And, of course, it wasn't possible and it still wasn't right.

And, that's when she lost it and began crying during her swimming lesson. I needed to go in and help her calm down. I wonder if this might be the time to plunk down $60 for a month of private swim lessons so she can learn this one kick and move on. In a normal 30 minute lesson there just isn't enough time to learn the kick since they only spend 5 minutes on it per week.

I just know she was really upset yesterday, both at herself and at Mr. mouse, but mostly at herself. And, I wish there was something I could do to help. At a minimum, I guess I'll tell Mr. mouse to step back and not confuse her.


Cheers!
mouse

Too Much To Do for the Day

Dear Friends and Family,

P and I went to the museum yesterday afternoon. We looked at Christmas trees and we watched the museum workers repair the train display. We were only there for an hour, but we had lots of fun nonetheless. And as I was holding P, watching the trains, I realized she's growing up so quickly and moments like these are so precious. My sweetest P is already racing towards six.

As an added bonus, on the way home, we saw one of the holiday buses.

Today, I'm going to try and get through several to dos. Tomorrow promises to be a busy day. And, Friday, I'm at school again for lunch and library help. So, today is my last day to plow through some things on my list.

Wish me luck.


Cheers!
mouse

mouse and Christmas Cards

Dear Friends and Family,

It's December 2nd and I think I'd like to try and get Christmas cards done soon. If we can mail them by Saturday I'll consider it a success. I'll work on my business cards today and have Mr. mouse buy stamps for our personal cards as well. That'll be a good accomplishment for the day.


Cheers!
mouse

12.01.14: Monday after Thanksgiving

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Monday and after five days off I'm a little behind in getting back in the swing of things. In other words, it's 10am and I am still in my pajamas and reading my to do list for the day. That's okay. The house is pretty much back in order and the fridge is sadly under control. So, I'll eat breakfast and try and get on with my day. I'm super excited because I have a plan for our Christmas cards. I just need to bully Mr. mouse into agreeing with me.


Cheers!
mouse

Thanksgiving 2014

Dear Friends and Family,

After four days, I have my computer back. For that I am very thankful. We have one hard drive copy of our NAS in windows format. The number of files and the number of bytes matches perfectly. There are apparently a couple of additional empty hidden folders somewhere on Mr. mouse's desktop. I am okay with that. I recall that being a problem I attempted to resolve in the past to no avail. I got the files to match. I'm happy. I'm more than happy. I am ecstatic.

While I was offline, we had friends visit from Seattle. We went to the science museum. We ate lots. We played Cards Against Humanity. We played arcade games. And, P's rocket got a major update. It went so quickly, but it was so much fun being able to spend the holidays with friends. P loves playing with the kids. And, for us, there's nothing better than having people to share Thanksgiving with.

And, now, it's Saturday and it's just the three of us for the next two days. We'll spend a little time getting the house back in order. We'll finish backing up the hard drive. We need two copies before resetting the NAS. We'll reset the NAS. We'll get our Christmas tree. We'll order our Christmas cards. And, we'll see where November lands budget-wise.

Oh. What am I thankful for? Well, I'm thankful for a lot of things. But, if I were going to pick three things that I'm most thankful for, I'm thankful to be done with old work. I love not driving to old work. I love not dealing with the toxic people at old work. I love having time to spend with P in the afternoons and on the weekends. I love not having to squeeze in twenty hours doing "part time" work in the evenings. I love having time to tackle everything on our list so our life feels sane. I am thankful that I've worked through most of the emotions involved in my departure. I am thankful we've worked through our budget so that the transition to one paying job feels complete. #1: I am thankful to be done with old work. I am thankful for my new work. I am thankful for the time that I have now. I am thankful for the sanity I have now. I am thankful for the support everyone has provided for me in my transition.

I am thankful for P and her school and her friends and the community we have built in the last year. We're happy with the progress P is making academically. We're happy P has made friends. We love all of the parents we've met. It was a big transition from old school to new school. I'm thankful that it's gone well. There may be some point in the future where P's needs change. But, for now, it's going well. #2: I am thankful P likes school. I'm thankful P has good friends. I'm thankful we've made friends with several of the parents.

I am thankful for health and happiness. This includes Mr. mouse, P, my family, and my friends. #3: I am thankful that my loved ones are, in general, happy and healthy.


Cheers!
mouse

Short Week, Day 2 of 2

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Tuesday and I have about four hours until pick up. It's a short week and I'm okay with it. I got a lot done yesterday. Today's agenda?

1. backup NAS to prepare for factory reset (in progress)
2. ***eat breakfast***
3. 10:30am meeting with former colleague and friend
4. pick up holiday cards for work
5. pick up employee gift for work
6. eat lunch
7. pick up P
8. throw out leftover milk at school
9. make sure P has her snow pants and sneakers for the long weekend
10. enjoy the afternoon with P
11. plan out cooking for Thanksgiving
12. 11:56pm pick up friends at airport

I love days like today.


Cheers!
mouse

11.24.14: Quiet Weekend, Short Week

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Monday and it's Thanksgiving week. We had a quiet weekend which is always nice. Saturday, I went to a friend's house to make soap. Mr. mouse and P went shopping.

Sunday, we went to church. Then, Mr. mouse went shopping with a friend while P and I went to a birthday party. P had fun running around with the girls and I always enjoy a nice chance to catch up with the other parents.

Now, it's Monday and I'd like to try and stay on top of the week. Lots of little things to do. Let's see...

1. empty dishwasher
2. get ready for day
3. ***eat breakfast***
4. do invoicing
5. work through pile on kitchen counter
6. catch up on emails
7. back up hard drive
8. pack for dance
9. eat lunch
10. pick up P
11. drop off maracons and book
12. dance class
13. work on math problems with P
14. feed P dinner
15. bathe P
16. put P to bed
17. capture expenses for the day
18. figure out what to do with the extra $200 that Mr. mouse earned

Lots of odds and ends. We'll see how far I get on the list.


Cheers!
mouse

The Role of School vs. The Role of Parents

Dear Friends and Family,

P goes to private school so we pay tuition. If P went to public school, it'd be free since it's public school and public schools are free.

This post isn't about P's school in particular but more about schools in general both public and private. The curriculum may be different, the teacher-student ratios may be different, but overall, I think schools are schools and home is home unless you home school, but that's not within scope of this post.

I think it comes down to two things. The first is comparative advantage. We should each focus on what we do better than the other. After all, it's not practical for me to try to teach P hip hop. She takes a class for hip hop. Her hip hop teacher knows hip hop, I do not. Therefore, by definition, he's got the comparative advantage. Therefore, lessons make sense. Another example would be swimming. I know how to swim. I think I could teach P how to swim. But, P takes swim classes because her teacher has the advantage of being trained in teaching swimming. He gets more done in 30 minutes with P than I would in 30 minutes with P. With me?

The second is goal alignment. In a perfect roles the goals of the schools and the goals of the parents would be perfectly aligned, but in reality they are not. Ultimately, parents are selfish. They want to optimize around their kid. Schools optimize for the group. They can't optimize for the individual participant. Going back to swimming, P needs to practice her breaststroke kick and her butterfly kick. I would love it if her teacher spent all of his time on just that. But, he doesn't because other students need to practice other things to. So, she spends part of her 30 minutes on freestyle and on backstroke and on other parts of learning to swim. This is where family swim comes in. While we are not better than her teachers in teaching swimming, P does benefit from family swim because she can spend an hour doing just her kicks which would not be possible in a group setting. Our goal is to make P a better swimmer so we optimize our time outside of classes on what P needs. Still with me?

Okay. Then, back to school and parents.

Let's start with an obvious place where schools have an inherent comparative advantage - the number of kids interacting with each other. Every day when P goes to school she is placed in an environment with other kids. I don't think that's shocking. It's more kids from a wider background for a longer period of time than I would ever be able to manufacture in our home. School's got me beat so let's take advantage of the comparative advantage.

At school P will meet kids she wouldn't meet at home. There are some kids we see regularly because P's friends with them and we're friends with the parents. There are some kids we never see outside of school. I think that's realistic. You don't go through life only interacting with close friends. So one potential role of school is it can expose P to lots of people and teach her that she's got to learn to function within a group of people where not everyone is a close friend, some people are friends, some people are acquaintances, some people are just people you have to be with even if you don't like them. You have to find a way to make it work out because life is like that. In this role, I think the schools goals and ours are aligned. Perfect.

At school P is with her teachers. Mr. mouse and I are not there. There are more children in the room than adults. That means, compared to home, you're resource constrained which doesn't sound like a comparative advantage at all. Except it is, if you're trying to teach your child independence. At home, P knows there are two adults and one child. As long as she's patient, we can get to anything that she needs help with. In a way, this limits her independence. At school, P knows there are three adults and twenty children. Realistically, the teachers can't step in on every situation. There's not enough hours in the day. So, children have to learn some level of independence. The teachers are there as an escalation point, but they begin trying to figure it out on their own. They begin trying to resolve conflict on their own. The begin trying to negotiate solutions on their own. So another potential role of school is it can teach P to independently resolve conflict. In this role, I think the schools goals and ours are aligned. Excellent.

At school, conflicts will come up. It hasn't yet. But, I'd be an idiot if I didn't think it wouldn't at some point. P's not going to go through 12-18 more years of school without encountering some conflict somewhere. I think that's the point where things begin to get more complicated. The right answer may not be obvious or may not even exist. Opinion comes into play and it's not clear either party has a comparative advantage. And, goals, well, there's bound to be misalignment of goals. If it's between P and the school, we will want what's best for P and the school will want what's best for school. If it's between P and another student, we will want what's best for P, the other parents will want what's best for their child, and the school will want what's best for the group which may not be either what's best for P or what's best for the other child. I think in those situations, we need to advocate for P, but the school needs to advocate for the school, and well, I'm assuming the other parents will advocate for their child.

I'm not sure what happens in those situations. I guess in those situations the school will do what's best for the school and we will need to decide if that's something we can live with or if we can't live with it what our next best option is because our role as parents will be to optimize for P.

I'm not sure this was helpful to anyone, but it was helpful to me. Happy Thursday!


Cheers!
mouse

Task Crossed Off List

Dear Friends and Family,

It looked like a luxuriously slow day so I decided to tackle a monster task of dating 130 photos from 2010 and 2011. Check. Then, I decided to update the firmware on our NAS. In progress. And, now, I've realized I didn't really get done the things I needed to get done. So, I'll run payroll later tonight. I'll write an email recap later tonight. And, I'll go eat breakfast now. I think that gets me caught up with today.

Fingers crossed my NAS boots up okay after the firmware update. We started the process at 12:30. I rebooted it at about 1 o'clock. It's going through a file system check. It's 4% done. 4% every 30 minutes means... a little over 12 hours to complete the file system check? Wow. Perhaps I should have done payroll before I updated the NAS firmware. Fingers crossed it's not much more than 12 hours to complete.


Cheers!
mouse

11.17.14: Concentrating on Walking

Dear Friends and Family,

I've learned that when I'm walking I need to focus on walking. I shouldn't be thinking about things I need to get done or things I've gotten done or decisions I need to make or decisions I've made or anything, really, because when I do, that's when I sprain my ankle like I did on Friday. And, spraining my ankle puts a big damper on everything because everything is more difficult when you're less mobile.

Focus on walking, mouse.

The weekend? Well, like last weekend we played at home. I'm not sure this is something I want to become a long term trend, but for a couple of weekends it's a good way for P to play with the toys we have at home and for us to spend time interacting with her. It's also a good way to save money. We're getting ready for the holidays.

P's been building like mad with her Legos. She's great at following all of the instructions which come with a set. But, for P, that's only the starting point. Then she builds on top of the set with random pieces we have lying around. It's the best of both worlds, being able to follow directions and being able to use creativity. It's fun having time to do this. I'm glad we were able to foster a love of play in P.

And our budget? We're right where we need to be heading into the second half of November. We've got $13 for the day which includes some coffee concoction when I meet some parents tonight to discuss the year book and one $3 bus ride to drop off P this morning and maybe a treat for P. Assuming Mr. mouse packs lunch, we'll be fine for the day. In a prior world, I would have been appalled at $13 but that's what budgeting has taught us. In a prior world, we could have easily spent more than $13 for the day. Let's see: $2 treat for P, $3 bus ride, $10 lunch for me, $10 lunch for Mr. mouse, $3 in snacks for Mr. mouse, $5 at Starbucks, $12 parking, $45 total for the day. And, we wouldn't have thought twice about it. I'm glad we're on a budget. It's been a valuable lesson.

Today's shaping up to be a good day. I already checked on our library books and submitted P's application for Saturday school. I might actually try to tackle parts of the house today.

1. pack school bag
2. drop off P
3. get ready for day
4. make bed
5. ***eat breakfast***
6. clean up house, until 11:30am
7. eat lunch
8. pack dance bag
9. prepare for yearbook meeting
10. clear through emails as time allows, back to 3/30 if possible
11. pick up P
12. go to dance class
13. go to yearbook meeting
14. relax and enjoy the rest of the day

It feels good.


Cheers!
mouse

Busy, Busy Friday

Dear Friends and Family,

Well, I got enough done on my to do list to make the upcoming week feel doable. And, that my friends is saying a lot. So, I just need to keep on top of my things between now and Sunday.

But, it's still a busy day for mouse. That's okay. I'm okay with busy.

1. get ready for day
2. dress P for in school colors
3. ***eat breakfast***
4. drop off P
5. go to library, begin shelving books
6. go to yearbook training
7. return to library, finish shelving books
8. check P's school milk
9. help at lunch
10. come home
11. eat lunch
12. do taxes
13. catch up on emails, leave house by 3pm
14. pack Mom's Night supplies, budget: $20 for evening
15. drive to suburbs
16. enjoy the evening

So, if I get through the day the weekend looks great. Hooray for mouse.


Cheers!
mouse

Happy Family

Dear Friends and Family,

Mr. mouse is home this morning and it feels so good having help getting P ready for school. I have a doctor's appointment I need to get ready for in two minutes, so Mr. mouse has kid prep and drop off. And, I have the luxury of running some errands before tackling my day. My day, you say? It's a great day!

1. get ready for day
2. make bed
3. doctor's appointment
4. return boots
5. return birthday gift
6. ***eat breakfast***
7. invoicing
8. go through American Express bill
9. finish dating photos
10. eat lunch
11. pick up P
12. enjoy the afternoon

Hope your day is as happy as mine. Tomorrow is a killer day so I may as well enjoy today.


Cheers!
mouse

Happy Hump Day, mouse Catch Up Day

Dear Friends and Family,

Nope. I didn't get what I wanted to get done yesterday. And, I'm not surprised. That's okay. I still ate breakfast.

After breakfast I took on a large project of re-dating photos. We have photos from P's toddler year in school and the dates on them were clearly wrong so I began going through them as only an OCD mouse can and began correcting them. That in and of itself would have consumed my day.

But, then, I got a phone call from a friend from the seventh grade. I had a giant crush on him in the seventh grade. He's going through some really rough times. And he wanted to talk. So I listened. And before I knew it, it was time for pick up. I want to help, but I'm not sure what I can do.

In a way our worlds are so different. We talked about meeting for lunch over Christmas. He kept asking if Mr. mouse would mind. I can't imagine a world where Mr. mouse minds if I'm meeting a male friend for lunch. That's just not the world we live in. I have so many male friends. We do things together all of the time. Mr. mouse doesn't mind. And, if he does, that's his problem, not mine. But, he doesn't mind so it's not an issue. That's just the world we live in. Mr. mouse is my life partner not my jail warden.

I want to help, but I'm not sure he wants my help. Perhaps all he needs is someone to listen.

So, it's Wednesday and it's mouse catch up day.

1. pack P's school bag
2. wake P
3. dress P
4. feed P breakfast
5. get ready for day
6. brush P's teeth
7. take P to school
8. come home
9. ***eat breakfast***
10. pack P's swim bag
11. pack my bag
12. catch up on emails
13. work on photo project until 10am
14. get gas, budget: $40
15. get mail
16. meet dear friend E for lunch, budget: $18
17. pick P up from school
18. call my mom
19. take P to swim class
20. catch up on facebook if P naps
21. catch up on reading if P naps
22. feed P dinner
23. bathe P
24. read to P
25. put P to bed
26. recap budget from day
27. go to sleep

If I can finish the photo project today I'll be happy. I've finished most of the easy to dos on my list. I'm getting to the ones that take time and each one is an investment. It's okay. It's worth it. Sooner or later I'll tame my list again.


Cheers!
mouse

Rainy Day Blues

Dear Friends and Family,

Not only is it getting cold tonight, but it's grey and rainy today. That combined with daylight savings changes means I need to begin turning on my SAD radar - more lights on in the house, more looking out the window on the bus, more consciously enjoying the sunshine when I can find it. I do okay once I realize what's going on. And, I've been trying to enjoy every ounce of fall before winter sets in. I'll make it. I always do.

Today? Well, it's not a glamorous day. But, I'm glad I've been plowing through the to do tasks.

1. ***eat breakfast***
2. go through work mail
3. go through emails
4. work on photo dating
5. order acrylic holders
6. eat lunch
7. get motivated to do stuff around the house
8. pick up P
9. enjoy the afternoon
10. eat dinner
11. have cupcakes
12. enjoy the evening
13. measure P
14. read with P
15. go to bed

It'll be fun.


Cheers!
mouse

11.10.14: Birthday Weekend

Dear Friends and Family,

It was Mr. mouse's birthday this past weekend. And, as a special treat, we took him out to celebrate. It was also P's half birthday and we were celebrating a new job for a close friend. So, lots of happiness in the air.

What else did we do over the weekend? P had class Saturday morning. We took fall pictures Saturday afternoon. The whole family napped. Then, we went to family swim Saturday night. P got some good time in the pool working on her breaststroke kick.

Sunday, we had church followed by lunch. Then, I took our friend eyeglass shopping and for a haircut. We ate cupcakes. We ate dinner. We folded laundry. It was time for bed. And, that was our weekend.

My day today? Why I'm glad you asked!

1. get ready for day
2. make bed
3. ***eat breakfast***
4. reconcile quick books
5. go to bank
6. buy birthday present
7. check soap ingredients
8. eat lunch
9. pack dance bag
10. clean up house, as time allows
11. pick up P
12. go to dance class
13. enjoy the rest of the day

Not as hectic as last week. And, for that, I am grateful.


Cheers!
mouse

Semi-Successful Day Yesterday

Dear Friends and Family,

I was cruising on my to do list until I hit a pothole. I ended up in an hour long discussion with my employee about a client and I didn't get anything done after that until I had pick up. I had planned on working on the photos. Then, I forgot my reading material so I couldn't do that either. But, on a positive note, Mr. mouse's dinner got cancelled so my evening was a lot easier than I originally anticipated.

Today? Well.

1. start water for coffee
2. complete expense reports
3. reconcile checks
4. get ready for day
5. ***eat breakfast***
6. 9am client visit
7. come up with plans for tomorrow's play date
8. come up with questions for the teacher conference
9. send photo book email
10. send two referral emails
11. upload weekend photos
12. upload Halloween photos
13. eat lunch
14. write one new client email
15. pick up groceries: dinner and milk
16. catch up on emails in general
17. 3:15pm teacher conference
18. pick up P
19. go to book fair with P

Not as long a list as yesterday, but each task on this list takes longer. On the other hand, I shouldn't have as many distractions today.


Cheers!
mouse

Another Day in the Life of Mouse

Dear Friends and Family,

It was super productive having my list yesterday so I think I'll make another one for today which promises to be a monster of a day.

1. get ready for day
2. write housekeeper
3. pick books for book drive
4. pack my bag (books, lunch, P's snacks, reading material)
5. pack P's school bag
6. pack P's swim bag
7. ***eat breakfast***
8. wake P
9. dress P
10. feed P breakfast
11. brush P's teeth
12. take P to school
13. drop off books at book drive
14. go to book fair, budget: $40
15. come home
16. get gas, budget: $35
17. get mail
18. come home, if time allows
19. eat lunch, now or when P is napping
20. pick P up from school
21. take P to swim class
22. catch up on facebook
23. catch up on reading
24. feed P dinner
25. bathe P
26. read to P
27. put P to bed
28. upload photos from weekend for friends
29. recap budget for day

Phew. That's my day today. Wish me luck!


Cheers!
mouse

Odds and Ends Day

Dear Friends and Family,

It's a day of odds and ends. Let me see if I can organize it into a plan of action. There's payroll, download voting research, vote, check credit card statement, eat breakfast, shower, pick up pumpkin, pick up milk, bring milk to school, return library book, delete photos from shared folder, write parents about Friday play date, post photos from play date, and dance registration. Okay. Now, let's try to organize this into a plan:

1. write parents about Friday play date
2. shower
3. ***eat breakfast***
4. delete photos from shared folder
5. post photos from play date
6. check credit card statement
7. run payroll
8. download voting research
9. call studio for dance registration
10. vote
11. return library book
12. pick up milk
13. eat lunch
14. fold laundry, as time allows
15. pick up P
16. bring milk to school
17. return library book - school library
18. pick up pumpkin

Yep. That's my day today.


Cheers!
mouse

11.03.14: 11:44am and Blogging

Dear Friends and Family,

I think I'm about 5 hours behind schedule. But, I'll manage for the day, I think.

We got in super late last night and then Mr. mouse and I took some time to get ourselves set up for the week before going to bed. So, I got up late and it cascaded from there. Still, I plan on eating breakfast at some point today since that's my one accomplishment for the day.

Why did we get in so late last night? Well, we were in Austin over the weekend at the F1 race. As usual, we had a great time catching up with friends in town. And, the weather for the race could not have been better. It's a quick trip, but one that I'm glad we made.


Cheers!
mouse

Breakfast Eating Mouse

Dear Friends and Family,

The furnace is broken, again. We need to get P ready for Halloween. We need to get ready for P's Halloween parade. Let Rome burn. I will eat breakfast this morning.


Cheers!
mouse

PS: If Mr. mouse does not get this furnace figured out I will have the grumpiest winter possible.

Who Am I?

Dear Friends and Family,

For years my work defined me. And, while not the healthiest, it's not uncommon among a certain subset of working women. And, now, sometimes I wonder who I am.

I was just thinking about my strengths... achiever, relator, ideation, strategy, activator... That's me.

I think I will focus on achiever and start with something really small. Breakfast. At 9am every day. That's enough time for me to get home from drop-off. It's enough time for me to wake up and get my rear in gear. Breakfast. That'll be my achievement for the day.

I'll try that for the month of November and see if I'm in a better place. I'll start more dishes spinning. But for now, that'll be my second dish. My first is my budget. My second is breakfast. Wish me luck.

Ready. Set. Go.


Cheers!
mouse

End of October Financials

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Wednesday and we have two more days to go until the end of the month. And, last night, Mr. mouse decided to go grocery shopping. Yep. So, we're punting on dry cleaning today, just as a matter of principle. I know. We sound destitute. But, we're not.

We still saved towards retirement this month. And we still saved money for school. We bought three new pairs of sneakers and renewed a museum membership.

I know where our biggest budget hole is. Each month I'm spending $400 on my new business. Without that we'd be fine. But with that each penny counts. Well, I guess for now I'll continue to spend the money and figure out a way to make it work.

I'm also hoping to reassess our tax withholding amount next year. I know we can reduce it since I'm not generating income at the moment, but I don't know how much I can reduce it by. So once we do our taxes, we can figure that out as well. That will be nice.

Well, I guess for now I'll continue with my one and only focus which is wrangling this budget into shape. I'll be happy once I can focus on other stuff as well.


Cheers!
mouse

10.28.14: Time to Step Back

Dear Friends and Family,

We had a fun weekend. Saturday, P went to class. We got haircuts. We went to a birthday party. Sunday, we went to church. We had lunch at home celebrating a friend's new job. We went on a play date with one of P's best friends. We blissfully enjoyed the amazing seventy degree weather Mother Nature provided.

And, now, it's Tuesday and I realize I need a new Top 3. There was a pile of stuff I wanted to accomplish when P went back to school. And, I haven't made a lot of progress on any of it. I think I need to figure out what I need to focus on.

#1: The Budget

We've made a lot of progress here. In fact, after much measuring, I'm comfortable adding $100 a month to our budget. November and December won't be easy with the holidays, but I'm eager to continue to try and make progress on this front.

#2: I Don't Know

This is the problem. Outside of my budget, I feel like I'm wandering aimlessly through the day until P comes home. I feel like I need more focus. Perhaps I'll go work on the kitchen until inspiration strikes.


Cheers!
mouse

Ambitious Week Update

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Friday. And, since we had swim on Wednesday, we get to come home after dance class. Woot!

I've continued to make progress, but I'm slowly petering out on my list. I want to try and get four to eight more things crossed off of my list, but I don't think that's realistic - four, maybe, but eight definitely not.

Mr. mouse and I can finalize a photo book. We have a free coupon that expires next Friday. That can be one.

I can check on soap ingredients. That can be two.

I can write an email I have been putting off. That can be three.

I can clear through my inbox. That can be four.

I don't think I can do much more beyond that. Even that looks ambitious for today. Sad but true since I only have one free hour today between drop off and pick up.


Cheers!
mouse

PS: I think I sprained my ankle on Wednesday, October 22. I know I sprained in sometime this week. October 22 is my best guess.

Ambitious Week

Dear Friends and Family,

After an abysmal week last week, I'm trying to make up lost ground this week. So far, I've gotten 8 things crossed off my to do list. I'm going to try for another 4 today. We'll continue plugging away at it and see how the week ends.

Today, I've got lunch with a girlfriend from old work. And, after school P has her new swim class. It's not the most convenient time. But, we'll have to figure out a way to make it work since she's graduated to a new level. Knowing our luck, this is the class she plateaus at and we need to figure out a way to make this time slot work. I'm okay with that. She's made such good progress until now. If she plateaus, she plateaus, and we'll figure out a way to make it work.

Today, we're going to try the snack and nap in car routine. We'll see if it sticks. Wish me luck.


Cheers!
mouse

10.20.14: Fall Play Time

Dear Friends and Family,

I'll focus on the positives because if I think through the negatives I'll probably get myself in trouble.

On the positives, we had a beautiful fall weekend.

Saturday, we took P to class. Then we spent the day building Legos and decorating P's pumpkin. She brought it into school today.

Sunday, we went to church. Then we spent the day outside with friends enjoying the harvest festival. P's favorite activity was making the scarecrow. Mine was seeing a bee hive.

And, now it's Monday. Another positive? After being on a budget since July, I decided to raise our funds going forward by $100 a month. I know $100 a month doesn't sounds like a lot, but it's the equivalent of a small splurge each month. Speaking of small splurges, Mr. mouse got P a doll for her doll yesterday. I don't think P's playing with dolls much anymore, but it's cute and P likes it so I'm not complaining.


Cheers!
mouse

Addictions and Habits and How They Work

Dear Friends and Family,

I'm almost embarrassed to admit it, but I think I'm not alone. I spend WAY too much unproductive time on the computer doing things that ultimately are a waste of time. I think I need to confine my time to the morning. Once my morning time is done, I need to walk away from my computer unless there's a specific purpose for being on it.

That means I can send an email to check on something, but I can't randomly checking Facebook or stocks. It means I can go through photos for a book I'm making but I can't read the news.

I think in a way it's easier to sometimes avoid the situation altogether than it is to limit consumption. I learned that lesson on Weight Watchers. It's easier to skip cake altogether than it is to have a bite and throw the rest away. I know other people learn the reverse lesson. It's easier for them to allow themselves the bite of cake. But, I've learned to recognize my addictions and skip them altogether.

So, for now I'm going to skip random time sinks on the computer by limiting my time on it to specific activities. I'll still get my free form time. But, after that time, it's time to move on. I think 8:30 seems like a reasonable time. Before 8:30 I can do whatever junk I want on the computer. After 8:30 I'm going to put the computer aside and focus.

I think I'll set up my phone to ring every day at 8:30 to remind me.


Cheers!
mouse

Day, Rearranged

Dear Friends and Family,

Last night P and I fell asleep at 8 o'clock together. Mr. mouse was on a trip and I had a busy day ahead of me on Thursday. I set the alarm clock for 4 o'clock and fell into a deep slumber snuggled next to P.

Then, at 1 o'clock in the morning I received a text. I vaguely ignored it and fell back into a doze. The phone buzzed again. I woke up. Now, normally, I don't sleep with the phone next to me. But, when Mr. mouse is traveling I use it as an alarm clock since I'm sleeping in P's room. I reached over to look at the next. It was Mr. mouse.

Back from dinner.

Yes. And, with those tragic words I found myself up. Instead of 8 hours of sleep, I lay in bed awake for 3 hours and find myself facing the day on 5 hours of sleep. Now, 5 hours of sleep from 11pm to 4am is hard, but 5 hours of sleep from 8pm to 1am is walking zombie mouse.

I couldn't have been more mad. This is the second time it's happened. And, I let Mr. mouse have an earful.

Now, I'm faced with some choices. Do I caffeine up and power through the day? Or do I plow through drop off and try to get some sleep? If it were any normal day the choice would be obvious. But, there's a coffee I'll need to bail on. And, there's no guarantee I'll get sleep because today is the day my housekeeper/personal assistant comes over.

Livid. How did I go from a promised night of 8 hours sleep to this? Yes, a text from Mr. mouse that stated, "back from dinner." That's how. In a former life, when Mr. mouse traveled, P and I slept on the airbed in my bedroom. The phone was downstairs. Mr. mouse could text at will and didn't need to worry about waking me.

But now that I sleep in P's room and the phone is inches from my head, texts from Mr. mouse have the potential to absolutely RUIN my night and the following day. Since it's happened twice now I've forbidden Mr. mouse to text me.

The twisted thing about all of this is if I had known I was going to skip the coffee and just try to plow through drop off, I would have tried to fall back asleep when 3 o'clock rolled around and I started getting tired again. But, since I thought I needed to get up and shower and get ready before drop off, I got out of bed.

Argh! There's no good answer. At least there's no good answer when you get woken up at 1 o'clock, roll in bed for 2 hours trying to fall back asleep and then morph into angry, tired, cold mouse. Hopefully the day turns around because it's not off to the best start.


Cheers!
mouse

Mom of the Year

Dear Friends and Family,

I'll confess. This morning I had sharp words for P. She took an hour to eat breakfast and as a result she was almost late for school. I had to prompt her for every bite with a "food in mouth" reminder. Then, when the food had been in her mouth long enough I had to prompt her with a "chew and swallow" followed by another "food in mouth" reminder.

There's nothing less fun than being a food coach in the morning to a kid who's lost all sense of time. Well, we missed every conceivable bus. And, when we got in the car, I gave her a piece of my mind.

Then, I realized, she'd be in school for the day with those heavy words weighing her down. So, I told her I was sorry and asked why she took so long to eat. I'm not sure I got a good answer, but we agreed tomorrow morning I'd wake her early so we didn't run into this problem again.

I think she was in better spirits by the time we got to school. Mom of the Year. Yep.


Cheers!
mouse

Productivity

Dear Friends and Family,

Oddly, I feel less productive now than when P was in camp. How is that possible when she's in school from 8 until 2:30 vs. when she was in camp from 9 until 11:30? Well, when you're kid's at camp for 2.5 hours, there's no procrastinating. You have 2-3 things on your list and you dive in and get them done before you race to pick them up. When you've got 6.5 hours, well, you can procrastinate.

And, that, my friends, is what happened this morning. So, time to get the rear in gear and get some stuff done.


Cheers!
mouse

10.13.14: 26.2 Miles, Minimal Preparation

Dear Friends and Family,

Saturday was a busy but typical fall day. P went to class. We met up with out of town friends for pizza. We went to the Botanic Garden to take fall pictures. We went shopping for sneakers. We bought a Halloween costume on eBay.

Sunday was a typical marathon Sunday for us. We got up early. We tagged our runners. We made our signs.

Except it wasn't a typical marathon Sunday at all... Because Mr. mouse decided Saturday night that he would attempt running the marathon. Yep. Armed with minimal preparation, brand new sneakers, an armband for his phone, and his Ventra card, Mr. mouse headed out Sunday morning to run his first marathon.

I wasn't at all sure how it would go. But, we saw him at mile 15 and he looked good. We saw him again at mile 19 and he was still hanging tough. That's when we realized there's a decent chance that he could finish it. And, he did. It took a little over six hours. But, considering he had done almost no preparation, it's still an achievement. His knee is a little sore this morning. Other than that, I guess it's a check mark on a bucket list.


Cheers!
mouse

Making Up for Friday

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Saturday morning, but since I didn't post on Friday, I'm making up for lost time here.

P's up and getting ready for class. Mr. mouse is peeling apples and packing her snack. And, I am having my tea as I contemplate our weekend.

I still have to cross off three things on our to do list. I'm torn. Here are my options:

1. catch up on emails
2. create photo book
3. videos from summer vacation
4. Halloween costume
5. fall pictures

So, I've got some options. We'll see what we get done today. Then I'll pick the most appetizing of some unappetizing tasks to finish out the week.


Cheers!
mouse

Stupid vs. Selfish

Dear Friends and Family,

I've been brewing on this for awhile now and sadly I'm beginning to form conclusions.

Over the past summer I've gotten more irritated with driving and traffic and things people do on the road that's bothersome or simply unsafe. And, I've wondered if it's simply stupidity that's driving the behavior or selfishness. In other words, are the people unaware that their behavior puts others in harm's way? Or are they fully aware and simply too selfish to care?

Stupidity is easy to solve, relatively. It's a matter of educating people. Then, the problem is solved. But, selfish, that's a much harder problem to solve. There's three ways that I can come up with. You either convince people to not be selfish, which I sadly don't think is possible in today's world. Or, you can set up the motivations so that selfishness pays off. But, that just makes people more selfish which at some point will create a total breakdown in society. Or, you punish the bejeezus out of selfish behavior so that selfish behavior doesn't pay off.

But, where does selfish behavior come from? I don't believe people are inherently selfish. I really don't.

On a societal level, historically, survival depended upon some amount of cooperation. A village can produce enough to survive. But, take the occupants of a village and ask them to survive independent of the village and they can't. Each person can't produce enough to survive on their own.

On an individual level, scientist's have done studies that shows babies are empathetic. They will try to help others when they perceive there is a need.

So, if selfishness is learned, where does it come from? Well, not to put it all on the parents, but I think that's where it starts. Then, it comes from friends. Then, it comes from society at large. And, finally, it comes from work. It's not like the FedEx driver double parks because they want to. It's because that's what they've been told to do.

So how do I raise P to not be selfish? Well, I suppose we need to not be selfish. We need to introduce her to friends who are not selfish. Then, when she gets older, we need to talk about society and selfishness. We need to let her know that there are selfish people in the world. We need to also show why we don't want to be selfish even if the short term gain seems to point towards being selfish. And, then, we need to foster enough confidence that she can walk away from bad behaviors and learn to be a generous person even if selfishness abounds about her.

Perhaps I'm being naive. But, I do believe the world is a better place when everyone's not out for themself.

The other thing is I think selfish people believe the world owes them something and they're just taking their due. And, I don't believe the world owes you a darn thing.


Cheers!
mouse

Hypothetical vs. Realistic

Dear Friends and Family,

I've noticed there's a selective phenomena to how my memory works.

Take hand holding, for instance. I love holding P's hand when we walk together. I love the feel of her little hand in mine. I love the bonding and the expression of love that holding hands means to me. There are times that P will walk next to me, holding me hand, and I treasure those moments. I wish I could capture each one of those moments in a bottle and keep it forever.

But...

For every time that we do walk together, hand in hand, down the street, there's at least four or five times that we "walk" together, hand-in-hand, down the street. Sometimes P is hopping, skipping, jumping, tugging, lollygagging, dancing, duck walking, tiptoeing... You name it, she'll do it. And, on those instances, my arm is being yanked every which way to Sunday. And, I know, while she's holding my hand, it's an automatic thing and her mind's elsewhere.

So, while, hypothetically, it's sweeter than sweet can be to hold hands and walk down the street together, realistically, it's not always as precious in the moment. It all depends, do you have walking P or bouncing P? Somehow, I always remember walking P and forget bouncing P.


Cheers!
mouse

Managing the Budget

Dear Friends and Family,

I keep telling myself that sooner or later I will not mind being on a budget. And, mostly, I don't. But, here's what I've learned for the day today. We went out to dinner last night with P's teachers from her old school. It was our turn to treat, so we did. As a result, today, we have $10 to spend in our petty cash fund. Since I don't have any anticipated expenses today, as long as Mr. mouse doesn't have any large expenses, we should be fine. Here's how the next seven days look.

• Tue: $10
• Wed: $40 including $30 for books for P
• Thu: $40 including $30 for a Halloween costume
• Fri: $10
• Sat and Sun: $286 including groceries for the week
• Mon: $210 including $200 for gas, electricity and water

I know, duller than dull can be, but, I'm not complaining. We spent our way into this, we can save our way out of it. I'm convinced.

Where's the light at the end of the tunnel? Well, either we'll continue to chip at it slow and steady which I'm prepared to do. Or, we can fall into money in the spring. Mr. mouse usually gets a bonus. That will make a dent in this. And, we should get an income tax refund since I haven't been working for two thirds of the year. That will make a dent in this. Or, we'll continue to chip at it slow and steady.

For now, it's just good to know we're making progress. Much as I gripe, it feels amazing, it really does.


Cheers!
mouse

10.06.14: Caught Up on Sleep

Dear Friends and Family,

I'm not sure where the weekend went. Let's see.

Saturday, we had a play date with one of P's friends from summer camp. She came over with her mom and dad and little sister. The girls disappeared upstairs to play and the parents hung out with us in the kitchen area. I guess they've reached that age where the parents don't need to monitor the situation. I guess it means they're growing up. I also think it makes the time feel like it's going faster. Because there are days where they're with you but not really interacting with you. So, while you still have 365 days in the year, your days together become fewer.

Saturday evening, we went to a birthday party. P had a lot of fun and asked at the end of it if she could get a scientist lab coat like the birthday girl did. I think that would involve having a birthday party at the venue and I'm not sure I'm willing to go there yet.

Sunday, I went to brunch with some friends I see once a quarter. Then, I slept the whole day away. P ate lunch. She went on a bike ride. She played with Legos while Mr. mouse went shopping. And, apparently, I slept through all of it. Somehow, after sleeping from 1 pm to 6 pm, I was still tired enough to fall back asleep at 11 pm. Huh. I guess I needed the sleep. But, I am a little sad I missed the play time with P.

Guess I'll need to make up for it this week.


Cheers!
mouse

Problems at School

Dear Friends and Family,

It was bound to happen. Sooner or later, we knew we'd have to work through problems at school.

Last year, Mr. mouse and P and I had to work through some issues that had to do with some boys coming over and knocking down P's towers. And, that was relatively straightforward and P handled it well.

This year, we've noticed P is branching out to play with more kids which we think is excellent. But it also means she's not as close to her BFF from last year which is the trade-off, I guess, for making more friends. Plus, there's less play time this year as the kids get more structure to their day. So, that alone would have decreased P's play time with her BFF. But, that's all fine and good. That would hardly constitute a problem by our standards.

The problem? One of the girls in P's class is very sensitive and a little bossy. And while P has been coping with it, it has been impacting her experience at school. While I feel for the girl and wish she was happy, I'm not willing to let it impact P. So, I've told P that if the girl is not being a good friend then P shouldn't feel obligated to play with her. I know, that would hardly constitute a problem in a lot of parent's books. But, I hold myself responsible for this one. The mom introduced herself to me and so P's relationship with the girl is a result of my friendship with the mom.

But, I've got my priorities straight. P comes first. And, if the situation with the girls is not a healthy one then I'm not going to encourage it going forward. If that means restricting the relationship to just the moms, I'm fine with that. And, if it means slowly drifting apart, I'm fine with that as well. It won't be anything melodramatic like in a soap opera. It'll just mean that P's calendar and mine will be less available, P's more so than mine. No fireworks. That's just not me.


Cheers!
mouse

09.29.14: Where Did September Go?

Dear Friends and Family,

It's September 29 which means we're now racing towards the end of the year with no brakes on the car. I've got so many things on my mind.

First, there's the budget. We've been on a budget since July and I'll be honest, although it feels good to know that we're not spending more than we've got, on a day to day basis it's the most god awful buzz kill ever. Fortunately, there's two days left to September before the accounting gods refill our petty cash kitty. So, we've got $16 to our name until then. I don't think we're living paycheck to paycheck since we put away money each month for P's school and for taxes and for future expenses. But, I can see how the stress of a budget can make people frazzled. After all, we know ours is only so serious. If we really need gas for the car or food on the table or money for medical expenses than the budget can go out the window. We're really trading off our leisure activities recognizing we can't go out to eat at the drop of a hat and recognizing we can't buy every cute outfit we see when P's drawers are overstuffed. Still, I'm so looking forward to October 1 when we reset our budget. $16 to cover the next two days. We have food in the fridge and gas in the car so we should be in good shape until then.

Next, there's the week ahead. I finally have time to myself. Yes, the week is still hectic, but outside of Friday I have the days to myself while P is in school. That's the most wonderful feeling in the world. I'll finally have time to spend on work and the house and my health and the to do list. If I don't make progress this week I need to revisit my plan because it means we're not set up for success.

Next, there's the weekend. We spent Saturday at home organizing the house and practicing handwriting which is good because P's handwriting had gotten atrocious and we didn't have that much money left in our budget. Sunday, we went to church, and then the park, and then a supermarket, and then a baseball game. P actually watched most of the game. It was a perfect summer weekend even if it was the last weekend in September.

Well, P just left so I need to get started on my day. Wish me luck.


Cheers!
mouse

A Day with My Big Kid

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Friday and P is back at school after a day off. We thoroughly enjoyed the day yesterday.

We ate breakfast, changed our clothes, brushed our teeth, packed our lunch and went out for the day.

We drove to the Nature Museum and found free parking right outside the door. We ate lunch right when we showed up because P said she was hungry. Then, P and I played a ton in the museum, first with the water exhibit learning how canals and dams work. We went to learn about butterflies and about nature habitats. And, we finished off the day playing with the water exhibit.

It was nice with all of the sun streaming in. And, the place wasn't crowded. And, P and I do enjoy our days alone together. I'm looking forward to winter vacation. Hopefully we have a couple of days together then.

We met Mr. mouse for dinner. And, P fell asleep holding my hand on the way home from dinner. Not every day with my big kid will be like yesterday. But, I'm thankful for the ones I get.


Cheers!
mouse

Looking Forward to a Day with My Big Kid

Dear Friends and Family,

P moved up in swim levels yesterday and I couldn't be prouder! She started swim lessons in May and moved up a level in July. So, I was anticipating 4-6 months at the second level before she was ready to move up to the third level. I thought she was doing well, but I knew parents can be biased towards their own kids. So, imagine my surprise when I saw an instructor come over to P's lane with a move-up card and a ribbon. At that point, I knew someone was moving up, I just didn't know who.

Then, P pointed to herself and spelled the word up. Hooray for P! Well, this next level is apparently the level where kids get stuck. It's the level where stamina and endurance come into play. We may sign P up for a second class each week to try and power through this level. We'll see.

Today, P's off from school. I'm looking forward to the day off with my big kid. It'll be like summer vacation again. I'm so excited.


Cheers!
mouse

A Light at the End of the Tunnel

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Friday. And, it's the last day of P's second full week in school. I feel like my game of whack-a-mole has gotten a little less frenetic with a light at the end of the tunnel.

If I haven't made a ton of progress on shrinking my to do list, at least it hasn't grown. If I haven't made a ton of progress on my idea, at least I've tread water and not lost ground.

And what does the next week hold for me? Monday, I have coffee with a Mom from P's school. She's in staffing and recruiting. So, while I'm not looking for a job, it's still a good idea to keep building my network. Tuesday, I have lunch with a colleague from old work who is helping me build out my idea. Wednesday, I'm at school all day for an all school meeting. Thursday, P doesn't have school. And, Friday, I've got the day free, but we have a birthday party in the evening.

I know. You're thinking, what light?

Well, the following week is much better. Monday, I may have lunch in the suburbs. Tuesday, Mr. mouse may have travel. Wednesday, I have a free day. Thursday, I have a site visit for work. Friday, I have lunch duty at school.

It still sounds like a busy week, but having a couple of days free is heaven compared to what I've been looking at the past two weeks.


Cheers!
mouse

Piper Time

Dear Friends and Family,

I've got a busy day ahead of me. I'm going to pick up mail. Then, I'll eat lunch. Then, I'm headed to the library for some quiet time to work on my business. I've been avoiding it for the past week, partly because I lined up a bunch of social engagements that I had put off and partly because I've got a big decision I need to make.

So, I'm headed to the library to work on my decision. Wish me luck.


Cheers!
mouse

Day to Myself

Dear Friends and Family,

Yeah!

A day to myself. P is in school. Mr. mouse is at work. I don't have any social obligations. I have the entire day to myself. I think there's a part of me that's a true introvert.


Cheers!
mouse

09.15.14: Apple Picking Weekend

Dear Friends and Family,

The weekend... Well, I can't remember Saturday all that well. We had house cleaning in the morning, lunch, and then I napped while Mr. mouse and P went bike riding.

Sunday, was a most perfect day. We went to church and then we went apple picking. Several friends from P's school made the drive out to pick apples with us. It was warm, but not too warm, sunny, but with just enough cloud cover, and breezy without being windy. We picked apples, ate a picnic lunch, and then lounged on the grass while the children played. P had a meltdown near the end which I wish we could have avoided, but it wasn't enough to ruin my day. The kids found a frog and after many attempts they caught it and one of the boys kissed it.

There wasn't as many apples as last year. I think it had something to do with the brutal winter we had and the less than stellar summer. But, we bought plenty to munch on throughout the fall.

Now, I'm off to my day. I think I should take my contacts off. They're bothering me.


Cheers!
mouse

Little Things

Dear Friends and Family,

It was raining this morning and I needed to drop off some art work at school so I drove P to school. Of course, the traffic was horrible. Of course, the rain got heavier right when we were pulling into a parking spot. Of course, P was confused. Of course, P almost stepped into a puddle. Of course, I barked at her about the puddle. Of course, she dawdled. Of course, the wind picked up right when we turned the corner. Of course, this upset P more. Of course, she dawdled more. Of course, we finally made it to school.

Did it get better then? Of course not. She needed her umbrella tied. I told her to wait until we got upstairs since the entry way was crowded. She was building up steam. I was building up steam. We tied the umbrella. I wanted her to put the umbrella under her bag. She wanted to hang it on the hook. We argued. I laid down the ultimatum and gave her a toddler choice of put it where I tell you to put it or I'll take it with me back to the car. She got upset. I got upset. She started crying. I comforted her. She got clingy. I got annoyed. Finally, she was "late" to school and the teacher came out and got her. I think she realized something was up because another teacher saw P in the hall with me.

I delivered my art work and walked back to the car. I was still annoyed. Then, to cap it all off, I unlocked my door to get into the car, I went to close the umbrella... I accidentally locked the car door, the umbrella closed partway and reopened splashing me with water, the wind blew soaking me with more water, I unlocked the car door and threw the umbrella and my bag in, in my hurry to get in I must half only opened the door partway, because it swung shut as it sometimes does... on my foot, but not before one more gust of wind blew one more sheet of water on me.

Yep. That just happened.

The little thing? Oh, I found parking near school in all of this mayhem.


Cheers!
mouse

Whack A Mole Time

Dear Friends and Family,

It's my first week to myself and I have a very familiar feeling. It's whack a mole time. It's time to take care of all of the little things that I feel like I've put off forever.

And, because it's also the first week of school, dozens of new little things pile onto the list. I guess I can take comfort in knowing that eventually the tidal wave of moles subsides. But, for now, I'm armed with my hammer and I'll keep whacking away at all the little moles that keep popping up their little heads.


Cheers!
mouse

09.08.14: First Full Week at Home

Dear Friends and Family,

It was a perfect weekend, weather-wise. And, while we didn't do anything hugely exciting, we enjoyed the days with P. She went on a couple of bike rides. She went shopping with Mr. mouse at a craft fair. She played at a block party circus. Nothing hugely exciting, but we enjoyed it nonetheless.

And, now, it's my first week at home. I'm feeling good. I've got some clean up to do and some organizing to do. But, overall, it feels good.


Cheers!
mouse

Our Kindergartner

Dear P,

It's Friday and you're in school. I hope the day is going well and you are having fun and enjoying your first week of school.

I think, in a way, summer vacation is hard. Your entire life you were in school. You started when you were twelve weeks old. And, outside of a week-long vacations, you had a routine. Then, last year, you changed schools. And, it was a little scary for all of us. It was a new building, new rooms, new teachers, new kids, new activities, new food, new commute, new everything. But, over the year we all adjusted. You made new friends. You liked the bus. You became used to the food. And, we all felt good.

Then, came summer vacation. For the first time ever, you had weeks upon weeks off from school. Your father and I lined up all sorts of activities. We took a couple of trips. We spent time together. And, just when it seemed like summer would last forever, September came. And, with September, came the start of a new school year.

I think you were anxious and that's why you were up until midnight on Tuesday night. I think you were tired which is why you were a little grumpy on Wednesday. Thursday felt more routine. And, this morning, outside of a cold, you seemed back to your happy self. You're in kindergarten now. And, I'm realizing you are growing up.

Much as we were amused by the play based curriculum for last year, I already miss it for this year. I promise, we'll make time for play at home. I know you're growing up quickly, but I'd like to hang on to little kid you for just a little longer.


Love,
your mom

09.02.14: The Very Last Day of Summer Vacation

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Tuesday. We're back from vacation. And, it's our very last day of summer vacation.

It's been a great week. We spent a weekend back in our first work town visiting friends. It's been 20 years since that first summer in our first work town. It was fun driving along the same roads, remembering life in 1994 which does not seem all that long ago.

Then, we went on our end-of-summer vacation. This time, instead of going to a far flung location, we went to Seattle to visit a host of friends we have in the Pacific Northwest. We got to spend a lot of time with my cousin and my two year old nephew who is technically my first cousin once removed.

This was also a mile marker trip. A year ago, I quit old work only to be persuaded into staying on part time. While the money was good, I've realized many times over that I shouldn't have agreed to stay on part time. I didn't have enough time to do anything right, splitting my time three ways. And, ultimately, I spent a lot of time detoxing from what ultimately was a less that satisfactory transition from old work.

Still, in taking this trip, I realized two very important things. I only lost a year. I am, now, where I could have been last year. And, while a year lost is a year lost, I can take comfort in having lost only a year. I am so glad not to be splitting my time three ways going forward. And, the other thing I realized was that while there was a lot of toxicity related to old work, I still had a good year. P made new friends. I made new friends. And, we had a great summer together. There's so many happy memories. The year wasn't a total waste.

So, my friends, we're headed into our last day of summer vacation. P's bag is packed. We have orientation in an hour and half. Then, P and I have one last day together before we head off to kindergarten.


Cheers!
mouse

Ten Days at an End

Dear Friends and Family,

Today is my last real day with P before school kicks in again. Next week, Mr. mouse is off so we'll be doing things as a family. Then, Tuesday we have orientation. And, Wednesday is the first day of school.

But, today is my last real day with P before school kicks in again. In retrospect, I'm glad I took the summer off. I'm glad was done with old work. I'm glad I put new work on the back burner. I'm glad I had the fun moments I did with P. I'll be honest, on the days she had full day camp we didn't get much done together. By the time we got home and had a snack, there just wasn't a large enough chunk of time to take on a major project before Mr. mouse got home.

On the other hand, for the four weeks P had half-day camp and for the two weeks P had no camp, we had lots of time to get into lots of trouble together. Did we spend some days running errands? Yes, we did. Did we spend some days getting things done at home? Yes, we did. Did we spend some days working on sheets? Well, not as consistently as Mr. mouse wanted, but, yes, we did. Did we spend some days with friends on play dates? Here and there, we did. Were there times I parked P in front of the TV for half an hour? There were probably a handful of times I did.

But, a lot of days we empty days where we could go to the park or play at home with toys that hadn't gotten touched in forever. We had time to talk over lunch. P told me that one time she wished it could be her birthday every day. How sweet it that? We had time to read together, sometimes me reading to P, sometimes both of us with our own books, quietly enjoying each other's company.

It was fun. I love having a five-year-old in the house. I'm glad I took the time to enjoy it.

Today, we're off to the museum. We got a free pass at the library. We'll meet Mr. mouse for lunch. And, then, we're off to new adventures. Still fun, but my summer vacation with P is coming to a close. I'm glad I got as much time as I did.


Cheers!
mouse

Caught Up, Yes!

Dear Friends and Family,

After a miserly three days of parks and playgrounds, we're caught up! So, for the first time in what feels like a long time we have some wiggle room in our budget. I know three days doesn't feel like a long time. But, last week was tight as well. I think I've recognized the pattern where we get into trouble. Our budget is generous, but it's not open-ended. So, as long as we plan out our spending, we should be fine. I think we get into trouble on the "big" days when we have multiple large expenditures all in a row. So, we can't prune our tree, pay the electric bill, get house cleaning, and apply for a new passport all on the same day. We can do all of those things, but it needs to be spread over four days. Yep, then we're in better shape.

So, today, Mr. mouse can have a little bit of money for a work outing and P can get ice cream at the museum. It's not living large, but it is the difference a little wiggle room can make. The rest we'll save for our upcoming vacation.

What have I learned from this budget?

Well, there's the simple awareness of how much little charges can add up, parking, Starbucks, ice cream, etc. There's a much greater appreciation of how quickly the big things can add up. It seems like there's always something. But, I'd say the best learning is how enjoyable life can still be even if we're being economical. We have fun at the parks and museums. We have fun at home. Eating in is fine even if eating out is easy. I'm glad we're teaching P that our happiness is not tied to money. I've always said that a certain amount of money makes life easier, but at some point more money does not equal more happiness. And, this budget has reminded me of that and hopefully introduced P to that concept.


Cheers!
mouse

A Day at the Park

Dear Friends and Family,

We stole a few magical moments in the park yesterday morning before the rains came in. P and I played fairy princess which I rarely let her play. She fashioned a wand for herself by tying a leaf around a twig. I picked a larger twig with a fork in it.

We found a quiet corner in the tree house playground and played fairy princess. How do you play fairy princess?

Well, this time, we did a lot of food things. I'd put a spell on her, "magic wand, magic wand, make P like asparagus." And then I'd ask her what she wants for lunch and P would reply, "asparagus." I'd pretend to make something out of asparagus and offer it to her. She'd gobble it up. And then I'd say, "wow, P really likes asparagus." We did it over and over again.

P also had a kitten named good good who had a kitten named nice nice who had a kitten named nice good. The three kittens liked lemon mint tarts so we needed to make them for the kittens. We went shopping and cooked them up.

We discovered we had two approaches with the alligators in the water. P would put them to sleep to cross the water. I'd feed them cheeseburgers to distract them. After a couple of times crossing the water with awake, but distracted alligators, P was okay with the cheeseburgers.

And, we played on the slide. P would cast a spell on me to make me go down the slide. I'd declare, "I feel like going down a slide right now." And then, to her giggles, I'd come down the slide.

We wrapped up the park visit with multiple trips to the pretend doctor for pretend stitches. And, we made a run for the car right before the big rain hit.

We spent the afternoon organizing shoes because that's what P wanted to do. Then, she napped. And, that was our day yesterday.


Cheers!
mouse

Rain, Rain, Go Away, Little P Wants to Play, Rain, Rain, Go Away

Dear Friends and Family,

We've been taking every opportunity possible to go outdoors since it's been showing rain for the entire week. Yesterday, we went to the pool in the morning and the park in the afternoon. We had the whole pool to ourselves. It couldn't have been better.

Today, the rain is holding off, so far. We've got lots of indoor activities queued up, just in case.

Well, P is up so I should start getting ready for the day.


Cheers!
mouse

08.18.14: Catching Up

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Monday and I'm feeling good.

We had a fun weekend. Saturday, we took P to the lake to see the air and water show. Sunday, we went to a friends house for a wonderful Sunday get together.

I also had a chance to talk with a girl friend who might be interested in hiring me and with a guy friend who might also be interested in hiring me.

So, instead of spending too much time here, I think I'll go work on some business proposals this morning.


Cheers!
mouse

Play Date in the Park

Dear Friends and Family,

Yesterday, P was sad when she woke up. Mr. mouse had already left for work and he had a haircut scheduled for the evening which meant, potentially, that she might not see him all day. So, when we decided that Legoland was not worth the $18 admission fee, we called Mr. mouse to check on his availability for lunch. He was free. We found a magic parking spot which was free. And, P got to go to the office for lunch. It was the highlight of her day.

Afterwards, I took P to the park and to Dairy Queen. She ran a ton in the park which is good since after today the forecast is showing rain for a week.

Today, we have a play date scheduled with two of P's friends. And, after some discussion last night on budget, it looks like we'll be on a tight budget for the next week to save up some money for an upcoming vacation. While it's more fun to think that money grows on trees, I'm okay with living on a tight budget for the upcoming week to save on money for a vacation. I'd rather do that than come back from vacation feeling like we over spent.


Cheers!
mouse

Fun Days with P

Dear Friends and Family,

Wednesday started out as an errand day.

We went to the doctor to have her look at P's toes. Two of them are curling inward. It's not bad enough to warrant surgery. I guess we'll watch it and see how it grows. Or I may Google it. Or I may try taping it to the neighboring toe. We'll see.

Then, we drove out to the mailbox. We ate lunch together, got coffee, picked up mail, and got gas. I convinced P to nap on her way to swim lessons. And, because I was lucky, she agreed. P slept from 2 o'clock to almost half past three. This set us up for a successful evening - a full belly and a nap.

We visited a friend after swim class and convinced her to join us in the park. That turned into a play date at our house. And, the evening ended with P curled up next to me asking me to sleep with her in her room.

So, what started out as an errand day morphed into a fun day after all.


Cheers!
mouse

To Zara or Not to Zara

Dear Friends and Family,

Well, that was easy. There's no Zara at the mall by the mail box. I guess we will not Zara today.

What'd we do yesterday? P and I went to the museum and spent a fun-filled day exploring science. We went through an exhibit on five habitats - rain forest, ocean, polar, cave and savanna. Then, we ate lunch. We watched a movie on the flight of the monarch butterfly. It was P's first movie. She whispered to me tidbits about butterflies throughout the movie. It was very cute. We learned about flavor and how it's a combination of taste and smell. P had a mint jellybean. She chewed it first with her nose pinched and then with her nose opened. And, we polished off the day with a ride through a train where P saw a talking donkey.

P was exhausted when we came home. I wanted to feed her dinner and put her to bed. But, she wanted time with Mr. mouse. So, after dinner she went out to play tennis with him. Then, had bath. Then, went to bed. She was in that easily distracted, stuck in random loops mode. I hate yelling at her to get her out of it. I think we're going to try sending her to her room when she gets like that so we're not in constant yelling-at-our-daughter mode.

It's Wednesday. We've got a doctor's appointment. Then, we'll pick up mail and go to the park. We've got swim lessons and a play date. Frankly, we're over scheduled today. We'll have to find a low key activity for tomorrow to make up for it. Perhaps we'll go to Zara.


Cheers!
mouse

Clothes Shopping

Dear Friends and Family,

Yesterday, I took P clothes shopping. We bought two pairs of jeans and one sweater. I also let P wander around the Disney store for as long as she wanted. She looked at stuff. She touched stuff. She confessed to be willing to trade in her Elsa dress for a Cinderella dress. But, in the end, she left willingly, without making any purchases. It was almost enough to make me want to buy her the Cinderella dress. Almost.

P fell asleep on the way home. I carried her up to her room. She slept for four hours. I did a ton of email while she was sleeping. It was nice. And, I guess she must have really needed the rest.

Now, I'm off to an early morning business meeting.


Cheers!
mouse

08.11.14: P's Bike Accident

Dear Friends and Family,

Another week another bike accident. This time it was P. There was blood everywhere. We took her home and washed her up and let her cry herself out watching videos on my lap. Then, we assessed the damage. It seemed like all of the bleeding was from her mouth. And, the bleeding had stopped. Her left hand had some pretty nasty cuts on two of the fingers, but they weren't bleeding any more either. So, we debated the emergency room vs. keeping her at home. In the end, keeping her at home won out because we thought the rest in a familiar setting would do her more good than sitting in an emergency room.

We took her to the doctor on Sunday. Looks like P has a partially detached frenulum. We called the dentist today. They're okay looking at it on our regularly scheduled appointment later this month.

The fingers continue to mend a little more each day. And, P's swelling (on her lip) is slowly going down. She can go swimming on Wednesday. And, outside of taking it a little easy, we should be okay for the next two weeks which is good because I think we'd all be a little bummed if we were stuck inside for the last two weeks of summer vacation.

I'm just glad everything seems to be okay.


Cheers!
mouse

Last Free Day Until School

Dear Friends and Family,

It's my last free day until P starts school in the fall. Honestly, after the past two weeks, I'm looking forward to time with P. I haven't really gotten into a routine. I was loathe to kick off anything big since I knew I only had two weeks. And, the time in the afternoon wasn't really productive time since P came home tired out. I hope this isn't a harbinger for when she's back at school full-time.

No, it will not be. Once she's back in school, I can look forward to a long, uninterrupted spell of doing stuff.

Well, for now, I'll enjoy today. Perhaps I'll make it a free day and nap on the hammock.


Cheers!
mouse

Losing the Kitchen Island Battle, Winning the Bedroom One

Dear Friends and Family,

We're definitely making progress on the master bedroom. There was a pile of stuff there that had been lingering from January. I got through all of it yesterday. And, now, I'm ready to tackle the next pile of stuff. It feels so nice walking into the master bedroom and seeing sections that look like a calm oasis. It's funny, you can see exactly how far I've gotten, because there's a line. To the left of the line, it's organized and clean. To the right of the line, it's a hoarder's delight.

We're definitely losing the kitchen island battle. I blame this 100% on P's camp. We signed her up for a two week camp. And, every day she comes home with 3-4 three dimensional craft projects. Yesterday, she brought home a well that winds up, an aquifer and a water filter. Yep. That's one day's worth of projects. Multiply that by ten for the ten days she's in camp, and you can see why the island is overrun. There's no "home" for these in the house. P wants to keep them. So, we need to find a home. I might try to clear out two bins in the living room. Then, we can try to fit this stuff in two bins for keeping. Perhaps that's a solution.


Cheers!
mouse

Dull as Beige Paint

Dear Friends and Family,

Sometimes I feel like my life is as dull as beige paint. I'm cleaning the house. I'm watching the budget. I'm clearing through old files. Yep. It's about as dull as you can get.

I think for now, though, I'll continue to clear through the house and the files. I think I'm overwhelmed because P's in camp for two weeks and the amount of stuff they generate in camp is astounding. It's a good thing we only signed up for two weeks. I'm thoroughly overwhelmed.

And, just now, Mr. mouse vetoed giving away P's boat from childhood. Yep. Overwhelmed.


Cheers!
mouse

Cleaning Up the NAS

Dear Friends and Family,

I've been making some progress on the house and on the NAS.

Yesterday, I spent 20 minutes on a pile of stuff in the master bedroom. The pile's not gone. But, it's smaller. And, I know what's in it now. And, I'll spend 20 more minutes working on it today. Sooner or later it'll be gone.

I also spent some time working on the NAS. I've been going through my files and deleting duplicates, because there's no good reason to keep multiple copies of the exact same file. I've also been going through and deleting work files. I kept copies of a lot of my work. But, I realized I kept too much. I wanted a portfolio of files in case P ever wondered what her mom worked on. But, there's no way she'll sift through what I kept. So, I'm curating to a smaller list.


Cheers!
mouse

08.04.14: House Party at the Mouse Pad

Dear Friends and Family,

It's Monday. We had a fun filled weekend with friends visiting from out of town. Joseph came down from his place as well. The house was packed. We didn't have enough chairs. But, we had so much fun. Friday, we dinner in the house. Mr. mouse made steak and chimichurri sauce. We had pie and ice cream for dessert.

Saturday, we split up. The boys went to an all you can play arcade. And, we took P to the zoo. We spent the afternoon on the deck watching the sunset. P fell asleep. We ate tacos for dinner before splitting again. A group of four went out to a concert. The rest of us hung out at home.

Sunday, we went to church together which is always nice. Then, we came home for lunch before splitting up again. Mr. mouse, P and I went to a baseball game. Our friends headed out to a music shop before driving home. Joseph headed out for a bike ride.

It would have been a perfect weekend, except for the fact that Joseph fell from his bike and we had to take him to the hospital to have it looked at. Everyone's okay. Just made for a complicated Sunday evening.


Cheers!
mouse

$22, Hooray!

Dear Friends and Family,

We did it! We actually made it to the end of July. And, cumulatively, we were $22 over on our budget for the month. Granted, we were over. But, still, in my mind, we did it! Compared to our spending the past six months, it's a giant step function improvement. I'm actually looking forward to our bills coming in August, because they won't bring on that depressing, we're out of control, how are we going to ever pay this, sort of feeling.

Well, we start off August today, I'm hoping we can continue the trend. August will be tougher. We need to buy clothes and shoes for P. But, instead of buying it all at once, I think we'll buy it in phases.

P needs:

1. 3-4 pairs of pants
2. 3-4 pairs of jeans
3. 2-3 tops
4. 1-2 sweaters
5. winter jacket, maybe
6. snow pants, definitely
7. hat and gloves/mittens
8. a scarf which I promised to knit for her
9. boots
10. 3 pairs of shoes

I think that captures it. I'll need to figure out how to break this down into manageable chunks. Definitely buying in phases.

For now, I'll savor the feeling of being on budget.


Cheers!
mouse

More Progress!

Dear Friends and Family,

Last night, Mr. mouse and I were able to agree to a plan:

1. break iphoto library into smaller libraries
2. clean up the NAS
3. format external hard drive to Mac format
4. create copy of everything on external hard drive
5. create copy of everything on cloud
6. expand NAS
7. copy everything from external hard drive to NAS
8. set up maintenance

Wait. I just realized a hiccup in the plan. We can't copy everything to the cloud if the external drive is in the Mac format. Sigh.

The other area of progress? There's definitely less stuff in the basement. Definitely.


Cheers!
mouse

Progress!

Dear Friends and Family,

After cornering Mr. mouse, we have a proposed solution for our IT problems.

For now, we will break the iPhoto library into smaller libraries that cover 3-5 years. This will solve the iPhoto too big problem. Then, we will copy all of our data to the cloud. This will solve the environmental redundancy problem. Then we will expand the NAS which will solve the NAS is running out of space problem.

I think.

There's probably 1,000,000 and 1 intermediate steps we'll need to take. But, at least, for now, we have a proposed solution. After trying to do this by myself for a month now, that's a giant step forward.

There's nothing more frustrating than working on something while your spouse is coming up with "issue" after "issue" on why the solution won't work. I'm fine with issues. But, I'm not fine with someone who just identifies issues. They need to be part of the solution.

Well, today, I feel like we finally crossed that bridge.


Cheers!
mouse

07.28.14: Last Weekend in July

Dear Friends and Family,

We had a fun weekend enjoying what I love about summer. P rode her bike. We met with friends for dinner. We went to the lake and played in the sand.

At church, the homily was about treasure and false treasure.

And, my first thought was about Mr. mouse and all of the stuff he insists on keeping in the house. He finds safety and comfort in all of the stuff. I don't think it provides any safety or comfort. In fact, for me, it's false treasure. It weighs me down and keeps the house weighed down and hides the house and the state of the house from me.

But, then I looked inward and realized I have my own example.

I've been focused on the budget for July. We have four days left to July and $151 left for the month. But, the budget by itself is a false treasure. The real treasure is teaching P about money. And, teaching P and reminding me that we can have fun without always spending money. We can have picnics in the park and go swimming at the park pool and play in the park playground. And, it's as much fun as eating lunch at a restaurant near the park or cooling down at a water park with an admission fee or playing at a place with an admission fee.

We can have fun by being creative instead of buying things to entertain us. I think that's the real treasure I've unearthed in having a budget. We'll continue on this experiment for August. August will be tougher because we need to buy P clothes and shoes for school. But, that might be a learning exercise too. It's not like clothes aren't for sale in September and October. We can assess what we need and buy over a three month period instead of picking up everything that strikes our fancy in August.


Cheers!
mouse

P Still Needs Her Naps

Dear Friends and Family,

It was about 4:30 yesterday afternoon when P lost it. She gets stuck in what Mr. mouse and I call an endless loop. She gets fixated on doing something that she can't do. She loses all capability to take in additional information. And, then, she loses it.

Yesterday, she was at the park, and wanted to pretend swing Olaf in a swing. So, she was swinging an empty swing and it kept going sideways so she kept stopping it and restarting it. And, it kept going sideways. And, voila, endless loop. So, I made her leave the park. And, she wasn't listening, walking backwards, tripping, ignoring me, until I yelled at her. And, then she stopped to listen to me. She was headed right for a piece of broken glass on the sidewalk in sandals and realized that ignoring me is a bad idea. I hate yelling at her, but sometimes when she's in her loop, it's the only way for Mr. mouse or me to break through to get her out of it.

Talking about it this morning, we realize P still needs her naps.


Cheers!
mouse

Looking Forward to Fall

Dear Friends and Family,

Much as I am loving having time with P this summer, there's a small piece of me that is looking forward to this fall when school starts up again. I feel like there's a lot of stuff that's in queue. And, not to make it sound like an excuse, but there's only so much I can do with the two and a half hours she's in camp. I try to use that time productively, but to be honest, I don't feel like I can. There's only so much progress to be made in two and a half hours.

I am still loving time with P. Perhaps the next two weeks, when she's at full day camp will make it all better. I can catch up.


Cheers!
mouse