ZoesMom

Tuesday Shoesday: New Kicks for Zoe

2012-01-24T08:04:00.000-05:00

The other day Zoe said to me, "Mom, a bunch of kids at school have these sneakers I really like." Then she paused and said quite sheepishly, "Can I get a pair?" As if she was afraid to ask. She should know that I recognize the importance of the right pair of shoes. I was a little disappointed in her at that moment, but I got over it and I said of course she could have the cool sneakers.

But first she had to find out who made them and where to get them. The next day she came home and reported they were made by Reebok, called Zigtech and were available at the mall. They look like this:

The next weekend we headed to the mall and went to Kid's Foot Locker. They had the sneakers, but not the color Zoe wanted. We tried a few other places, but she was unwilling to settle.

That night when we got home I looked online and discovered that Reebok let's you customize this kind of sneaker. The possibilities and design combinations were endless. I was so excited to show this to Zoe since then she could pick out exactly what she wanted. She eagerly sat down at the computer and started designing her perfect shoe.

About an hour later she gave up in frustration. She could not figure out what she wanted. I tried to help, but I just wasn't helpful as is often the case with Mom and clothes. I even suggested she try Nike's version of customized shoes. That was equally frustrating. Finally, Zoe could take no more and declared that she no longer wanted sneakers and that we were to just forget it. It was a shame, because there are some great, creative possibilities with being able to design your own, but I guess ultimately, there were just too many choices.

The next morning I happened to get an email from J Crew advertising some stuff from their kids' line and the email included a really cute, classic pair of Adidas sneakers for kids. They just screamed Zoe to me. I showed them to her and she fell in love instantly. We are now anxiously awaiting the arrival of these:

In the end I have to say I am proud that Zoe recognized the importance of not only cool, but classic.

Football Birthday

2012-01-20T20:57:00.000-05:00

Last weekend I celebrated my 41st birthday. After last year's 40th fete, I didn't want much hoopla, just a quiet day with my family and some good cake. It happened that the Giants' playoff game fell right on my birthday so I invited my family over for a football birthday party. Not a typical birthday celebration for me, but in recent years I've gone from a half-hearted football fan to a full on fan so it seemed like a fun way to spend the afternoon. As it turned out the game was super-exciting and ended in a win for the Giants so my birthday was complete. The cake was delicious too, which really sealed it.

Rob, being the kind of guy he is, found this birthday card that he helped along to perfection:

Zoe Bryant?

2012-01-16T10:46:00.000-05:00

Mom bragging alert!

Highlight from Zoe's 2nd ever basketball game. I can't quite explain it, but watching these basketball games is so much fun! I have a smile on my face the entire time. Hopefully these 30 seconds will make you smile too.

Feats of Motherhood

2012-01-11T09:37:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I was in an all day meeting with a vendor we are doing a lot of work with. The meeting was largely focussed on alleviating the various areas of dissatisfaction on our part, as the client. It wasn't a relaxed day and it certainly wasn't easy for either us or them. That being said we did get through the day and reached what I hope will be accord.

When we were wrapping up around 7pm the woman who was leading things from the vendor side, who was the picture of confidence, intelligence and diligence all day, said she was going home to crash because she had been up all night with her daughter who had croup. Not only had she been up all night, she had been at the emergency room all night. Honestly, I never would have guessed. I can only imagine how completely shattered she felt, but she never let it slip during the course of our very long day.

This morning as I was juggling an 8am webex/conference call and getting Zoe up, ready for school, and out to the bus stop (hardly comparable to a night spent in the ER) I was reminded of her and all of the times I have simultaneously juggled motherhood and work. Good to be reminded that I am far from alone in this juggling act.

This was my view leaving Brooklyn last night after my all day meeting.

New Year, New Look

2012-01-06T18:48:00.000-05:00

So, I decided it was time for a blog makeover. Not sure I am 100% satisfied with the result thus far especially because I think the new look has been heavily influenced by my latest project. Here's a snag of that project:

See any resemblance? Yup, I'll have to keep working on that.

Speaking of the new year I never did my usual end of year wrap up or resolutions for the new year...

2011 Wrap up:

I have to say that 2011 kicked my ass. It was tough year from start to finish. It wasn't all bad, but it wasn't easy.
The weather played a surprisingly big role in the year. From snow storms, to heat waves, to hurricanes, they were all memorable, but nothing I'd like to relive any time soon.
I listened to an awful lot of audio books. 18 out of the 67 books I have listed as "read" were actually "listened." Reasons for that are 1) I started listening to audiobooks while I work out and 2) my new job included a new commute
Starting a new job is really tough and really consuming, but finding a job where you are both treated with respect and like what you're doing is amazing. I completely forgot what that felt like and I am so glad I got it back.
Several times over the course of the year I was reminded to be grateful for all that I have in my life. Despite my petty complaints, I know I am a lucky person.
And lastly, Zoe grew up so much this year. She's not completely different and in many ways she's still and will always be my baby, but she's getting so mature. It makes me proud and breaks my heart.

I have decided I am not making specific resolutions for 2012. I am simply wishing for a quiet year where the scale is more tipped towards happiness for myself and those I care about.

What's with the toothpaste

2011-12-28T16:23:00.000-05:00

After my last post, I decided it was best I keep my whining about the holidays to myself. Now that Christmas is all unwrapped and there is very little on tap for New Year's, I can move on to other kinds of whining.

I've compiled a list of complaints/questions regarding toothpaste. It may seem silly, but I encounter the tube at least 2 times per day and what I see drives me crazy.

What is with the toothpaste and why are women the only people capable of using a tube of toothpaste without turning it into a disgusting mess in some way? (Grown women only because Zoe is as much of a culprit here as Rob.)
Seriously, how very hard it is to squeeze the tube from the bottom?
And can you not yet judge the force of squeeze you'll need to get the toothpaste out without also getting it all over the top of the tube?
And one more question, is it really so hard to rinse the toothpaste residue from the sink when you're done brushing your teeth?

Any insight here would extremely helpful. And please don't tell me I am OCD. I have lived with other women and I know they do not behave like this with toothpaste.

Maybe I need some more post-holiday rest?

< whine >

2011-12-13T21:56:00.002-05:00

I want to enjoy the holidays, I really do. But there is just so much to do and think about and spend.

I just keep fantasizing about the day after when I may finally get to rest and possibly be left alone for 4 or more hours with nothing to buy, wrap, cook or prepare in any way.

I hate being this way. Gifts and parties are supposed to be fun. So when did it get so exhausting?

< /whine >

Letter to Santa

2011-12-09T17:31:00.005-05:00

This year's letter from "been good all year (almost)" Zoe, now on it's way to the North Pole.

Its the most craziest time of the year

2011-12-08T20:07:00.000-05:00

Not much blogging from me these days. Seems like there has barely been time to breath since the week before Thanksgiving. OK, I did some breathing during the week of Thanksgiving because we were on vacation, but I didn't blog then although I probably should have.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words so here are a few thousand words from our Dallas road trip vacation:

from The Peeps Store in National Harbor, MD
Yes, we went out of our way to go and it was worth it!

Ashton demonstrating the proper way to drink martinis

Zoe and Samantha playing DJ Hero

Zoe looking gorgeous as photographed by the uber-talented Ashton

And the stars of the Dallas show -- Karen and the newest Mr. Smith (Scott)

Zoe Writes About Me

2011-11-09T17:52:00.000-05:00

Zoe had a writing assignment where she had to write about someone close to her and she chose to write about me! She decided to type her final version into the computer so I don't have it in her handwriting, but this is still great. I love it...

My mom

In my book my mom is the best thing since peanut butter. She is my role model. She has taught me many life lessons. She is always there for me and has never made me sad, angry, or forgotten. She says she loves me everyday and I always say the same thing back. She fills me heart and makes me smile almost everyday. My mom is always there for me. She always makes me happy before she is. My mom is one of the best people in my life and I am lucky to have her.

I have and always will be my mom’s little girl. She has told me she loves me more times then the earth has trees. She loves me and I love her. I always will. She gives me hope and she gives me confidence. My mom is one of a kind and I don’t think anyone could even be like her.

My mom loves me. I love her. She has friends that love her too. My mom is my mom is my mom and that is not why I love her. I love her because she is a nice wonderful person. My mom is one person and if that person is her then I’ll be happy.

Working from home vs. Working at work

2011-11-08T17:59:00.000-05:00

I've been at my new job for about 10 weeks now. Things are going well and I am very glad I made the move. I was nervous about adjusting back to work in an office, but that hasn't been too difficult. However, I have made some observations about the differences (some good, some not) which I will share with you now.

When you are in the office no one expects you to simultaneously work at your job and do housework or errands.
When you are in the office most of the week you have to set aside time on the weekend for getting the laundry done.
When you are in the office it is not unusual to spend 15 minutes or more just chatting with your co-workers about this and that. You can actually spend time getting to know each other.
When you are in the office your co-workers can interrupt your work any time they step up to your desk or into your office.
When you are in the office all day you can sometimes come home to find someone else preparing dinner and that is a wonderful thing.
When you are in the office all day you cannot run out to the supermarket at lunchtime and get the [fill in ingredient] you need for the dinner you'd planned.
When you are in the office and have a meeting in a conference room it can be just as hard to concentrate as when you're on the phone at home.
When you are in the office and have conference calls all day you can't help thinking you could have stayed home for that.
When you are in the office (at least in my office) people do look at you funny if you wear jeans.
When you are in the office no one looks at you funny if you are wearing fabulous high heels and you are likely to be complimented.

Halloween 2011: A Pictorial

2011-11-03T13:36:00.000-04:00

We started the night with Guacamoldy and Chips.

The dinner menu included Monster Meatloaf and the ever-popular Mummy Hot Dogs:

The costumes were put on. I never got a good shot of Zoe as a Bumble Bee. I think this is the best one:

Trick-or-Treating and Halloween Decoration Admiring began promptly at 6:30. This was the best jack-o-lantern.

Finally the nigth was topped off with Tombcakes (because yes, in addition to candy, you need dessert).

Book Review: Fathermucker

2011-10-29T09:01:00.002-04:00

I received this book from LibraryThing's Early Reviewers program.

Fathermucker is an interesting, sarcastic, humorous, and slightly depressing look at both modern fatherhood and modern parenting. Josh, our hero, is a stay-at-home Dad, or as he calls it a SAHD and the book tells the story of one tumultuous day in his life with two young children.

The story starts a little unevenly, but by halfway through it picks up steam and the tale that unfolds is one I think both modern mothers and fathers can relate to. I enjoyed the Dad's point of view as much as I enjoyed seeing a man struggle with raising young kids while keeping a marriage intact just as many women I know, myself included have.

Overall this is a thoughtful and enjoyable book that I think any parent can appreciate.

Loafer Loveliness

2011-10-20T16:14:00.000-04:00

I guess I should save this for Tuesday, but who can wait?

Back in July I blogged about the gorgeous penny loafers from Tory Burch. But in all honesty, they were a bit out of my price range so I never got them ... until today when they were on SALE! I felt I had to share such good news.

I am happy to report that these beautiful red loafers are on their way to me as I type. Joy!

Check out Heather!

2011-10-19T10:10:00.000-04:00

So exciting! My friend Heather is in a TV commercial for Kettle Chips:

How awesome is that!!

12 Years Ago Today...

2011-10-16T08:27:00.000-04:00

...I married the love of my life.

Lucky me. Yes, of course, Rob is lucky to have me, but it really goes both ways. I'm not sure I really understood feeling loved until Rob and I got together. I can't imagine having faced parenthood and so many things without him by my side.

Happy Anniversary my love.

Halloween Costumes Update

2011-10-12T18:01:00.001-04:00

So we went to the party store to look at costumes. (I always feel guilty just buying costumes since I, of all people, former costume designer, should really make her costumes, but I can't do everything.) The costume we went looking for was that of Mixed Martial Arts fighter. I didn't have much hope, but I did think we could find a boxer's costume or some accessories that we could use. The closest thing available was this:

But I think this might be a little too, um, sexy for a 9 year-old.

There were a lot of other great costume ideas at the party store. I made a ton of suggestions. All of them were shot down. Including this Athena costume which I thought we could easily turn into an Artemis costume:

But Zoe wanted no part of it. She's convinced no one will know who she is supposed to be if she wears it and I think she despises the idea of wearing a dress. Sigh.

Somehow Zoe was ultimately taken in by a set of bumble bee wings and so that is her costume, bumble bee. It is kind of disappointing in a way that doesn't make sense. I mean, it is her costume so she should be happy with it and that should be enough for me, right? Yeah, right.

I'm still thinking of ordering the Athena costume, just in case she changes her mind. Sigh.

I Don't Know How She Does It

2011-10-03T18:13:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago I went to see the movie I Don’t Know How She Does It, the movie based on the book of the same name by Allison Pearson. It was cute, somewhat trite, yet entirely perfect for a girls’ night out. Despite it’s forgetability, something about it stuck with me, some voice in my head said something wasn’t quite right. I listened to the audiobook of this title when it first came out in the U.S. sometime in 2003 and I haven’t carried the best impression of the book with me. If you had asked I would have said it was just an OK book, but I couldn’t tell you why exactly. After seeing the movie, I was pretty sure the moviemakers had either missed something or not quite gotten the story right. No surprise in that happening in a movie adaptation, but I couldn’t remember the book well enough to recall the problem.

Luckily Audible saves your purchased library for all time so I was able to download the book and give it another listen and alas I was able to discover what was missing. In the book (SPOILER ALERT) Momo, Kate’s (the protagonist) protégé, is subjected to sexual harassment in a particular nasty way. The slimy Chris Bunce (played right on target by Seth Meyers in the movie) puts her head on pictures of naked women performing lewd acts. This spurs Kate into action setting up the evil Bunce to get fired and then resigning herself (this does not occur at all in the movie and Kate does not resign). Second, her husband actually leaves her, instead of just implying that he might.

Lastly, and most important, the overarching message of the book seems to be that working too hard and succeeding is not a good thing for a woman – or at least not for her family. Kate and all the other likeable women characters eventually end up either as stay-at-home Moms or working at much less demanding (high-paying) careers. Kate, smart, powerful, highly paid woman, gives up her job so her husband doesn’t leave her and so her kids don’t hate her. This is what brings happiness to husbands and children.

The movie, on the other hands, ends on a note that says women can do it all (except an affair, of course, even if it is Pierce Brosnan), it is just a careful balancing act. I guess I subscribe more with that version of reality for obvious reasons.

In reality I suppose both conclusions are true, depending on who you ask and when. In this current economic climate, I don’t think a story about a woman giving up a high-paying job to spend more time at home would go over well since most don’t even have an option. And while I know for a fact that most stay-at-home moms actually work much harder than I do, I don’t think that staying at home necessarily makes a better mother as the book seems to imply. That’s my gamble, anyway.

At least now I know why my recollection of the book was iffy and I have a new appreciation for the movie rendition.

The one good thing that the book and movie share is how annoying that statement really is, "I don't know how you do it." I do know. It's not magic, it's not really anything special. It's just living.

Halloween Costumes

2011-09-30T23:33:00.001-04:00

It's that time of year when a young mind's fancy turns to thoughts of candy and most of all costumes. What a big decision that costume is. In fact, Zoe has been contemplating her costume since about November 1, 2010. She is still firmly undecided, but I've been keeping track of her ideas since spring. First came the barbarian. I have no idea where this came from. Then it was all about Artemis. This was an idea I could get behind because she is so into Greek mythology. We even bought a plastic bow and arrow set over the summer. Next up was a Viking. Another idea that I have no idea about. The next strong contender, so strong that I almost ordered part of this costume, was an M&M dressed as rapper Eminem. Since Zoe doesn't even know a single Eminem song, I am completetly clueless on where this idea came from. She seemed so committed to it. Until last night...When she informed me she wanted to be a Mixed Martial Arts fighter. Really?I was hoping yo buy a costume this weekend, but now I'm not so sure.

9 Years and Growing Fast

2011-09-28T11:46:00.000-04:00

The change from baby to toddler and toddler to kid are obvious, marked changes, but the change from little kid to just plain kid happens so slowly that you don't notice it until one day you're folding laundry and you realize that your daughter's t-shirts aren't much smaller than your own.

Zoe turned 9 over 6 months ago now, but with the new school year underway and watching Zoe in her various activities and interests it has hit me lately that she's so damn grown up now. She's in 4th grade -- a grade I really remember. I think its an age when you start to come into your own as an individual. Or maybe I was a slow starter because I think Zoe has known herself for awhile now.

In any case, she has her own interests, her own likes and dislikes, her own tastes in books, movies, etc. I love seeing these things develop in her -- especially as she pursues things like Greek Mythology and softball -- things we really don't share. I'm pretty sure the Percy Jackson series of books will be to her what the Little House books were/are to me. At the same time, I have to admit to being also saddened to see her so obviously grow away from me. I know that's part of the overall goal behind raising a child -- to send a good person out into the world, but it hurts a little to think at some point, she won't need me. Of course, I hope she'll always need me, but it won't be as a baby or kid needs their Mommy. She won't ask me to get her milk or tie her shoes. She won't want me to wash her hair.

However, whether she needs me or not, I'm not ready to lend her my t-shirts. Thank goodness her feet are still way too small for my shoes!

Zoe and the Babysitter

2011-09-12T11:31:00.000-04:00

Saturday night Zoe's favorite babysitter came over so Rob and I could escape to dinner at a restaurant that has no chicken nuggets and an R rated movie. (We saw Contagion which I thought was great.) The next morning I asked Zoe what she and the babysitter did -- watch a movie, play Wii, play cards? She said, no, they made YouTube video. Now that is something new! Luckily I trust the babysitter so I know it wasn't inappropriate and I was sure it was just silliness. Which in fact is exactly what it is.

Here's the video (which, I think is funny if you are 9):

Neglect Part 2

2011-09-10T14:16:00.000-04:00

OK, so now it seems I am neglecting my blog. With everything going on all at once I've been wiped out. So much so that I find myself with a cold this weekend. Yuck. However, it has given me the perfect excuse for afternoon naps so I am not completely knocking it.

Here's a quick report card on the last month:

Vacation: B (would have been an A if Rob could have joined us)
Hurricane Irene: C (we were fortunate enough to not lose power or sustain damage, but too many other people were affected badly)
Start of new job: B (might have been better if Hurricane Irene didn't make things screwy the first week)
Start of school: A+

And here's the newly minted 4th grader herself looking pretty rad if I do say so myself:

Overall average: B+ (Not bad, but room for improvement)

OK, I promise I am committing to getting back to normality, reality, and all that stuff on Monday so blogging should then resume with regularity.

Neglect

2011-08-18T16:08:00.000-04:00

I've neglected a lot of things lately and obviously my blog is clearly one of them. I am on the path to correct my ways, but first let me say it's been one crazy summer in which I learned a rather important lesson.

I pride myself on my multi-tasking abilities and while I am constantly busy being Mom, employee, daughter, friend, etc. I often forget to pay attention to myself. As a result I woke up one day in June and found I was suffering severely from my own self-neglect. I was both physically ill and rather depressed and the stupid thing is, I didn't even know it until I reached the point when I just wanted to stay in bed all day. Anyone who knows me, knows staying in bed all day is not ever my M.O. I prefer to go, go, go until I drop and then get up early and start again.

A small miracle occurred in mid-June that helped propel me out of my funk and into change. An old boss of mine emailed me about a potential job. I know I've already shared that I got a new job, but my reaction to that initial email made me realize just how unhappy I was in my job and seeing a light at the end of the tunnel elevated my mood. Somehow that also inspired me to finally call the doctor as well. I described earlier my health scare which luckily turned out to be something simple. Earlier this week I had (very minor) surgery to fix the problem and I am happy to report that I now feel better than I have in months. It is pretty amazing actually.

So, now that I am feeling energetic again and excited about my life changes and generally much happier, I realize how foolish I was to neglect myself for so long. How could I have been the best Mom, employee, friend, etc. I could be when I was feeling so awful? Sometimes taking care of yourself is not selfish. Who knew?

Zoe at Softball Camp: A Video Presentation

2011-08-02T17:43:00.002-04:00

Tuesday Shoesday: I Need Shoes!

2011-07-26T20:42:00.000-04:00

OK, no pictures of actual shoes today, but I am happy to report that I actually need to buy shoes so I'll be going back through past posts.

How can I need to buy shoes, you ask? Well, I'm kissing my work-form-home life good-bye because I got a new job!

Anyone who knows me well knows I've been pretty unhappy in my job for awhile, but anyone who's been searching for a job lately knows how tough the job market is these days. I've been looking on and off for awhile, but not having any luck. Then lightning struck about a month ago and just yesterday I resigned from my current job. I'm excited about the new job and that alone is a good feeling, but they also made it clear after the interviews and in the offer that they really want me. That feels great. I mean, I know it is a job, but it is good to feel valued at your job and I think (I hope) I am going to feel that way at the new job.

I am going to have to get used to commuting again, but only 3 days a week and there is an option to take a train so I'm not too worried about it. Before I start I'm going to get almost 2 and a half weeks off. I haven't had that much time off in a row since my maternity leave. That's good because I'm going to need some time for shopping for shoes -- and clothes, of course.

Lucky Me

2011-07-20T19:42:00.000-04:00

The past couple of weeks I've had a bit of health issue that involved a biopsy and waiting for the results of that biopsy. I am very fortunate that I can say the results of the biopsy were negative, but it was so hard to keep my head on straight while waiting. Most of the time I tried not to think about it, but every once in awhile my mind would go there.

What if I have cancer?

What if I die?

And in thinking about those questions I was really thinking about Zoe. I can't leave her -- not yet. She still needs me. Just contemplating that thought was, still is, a lot to take. I know if the results had been different that I would hardly have been the first mother of young children diagnosed with cancer and I know I could fight it and have good chances being youngish and healthy, but in the waiting moments that stuff didn't matter. All that mattered was who would take care of Zoe. Who would buy her tampons and help her with her first heartbreak? Who would take her prom dress shopping or help her choose a college? Who would cheer her on the whole way? It has to be me.

I am so lucky that I can be relatively sure it still will be.

Tuesday Shoesday: More Love of Loafers

2011-07-12T07:34:00.000-04:00

Looks like loafers are in for fall. After the complete drought of shoe love this spring and summer this makes me so happy. Here are some fabulous pairs I've seen lately:

Anne Klein Walnut

Enzon Angiolini Balinia

Kate Spade Connie

Me Too Nerissa

Looks like I am going to need some space for shoes. I don't think Rob really needs his own closet, do you?

The Ambitions of a 9 Year-old

2011-07-11T12:18:00.001-04:00

Tuesday Shoesday: I Love Loafers

2011-07-05T05:50:00.002-04:00

OK, maybe summer shoes just aren't my thing, but fall shoes are definitely squarely in the "my thing" category especially since they often include variations on the loafer. As much as I don't want to rush summer along, I do like ogling the coming fall fashions. One of my favorite early looks is this penny loafer from Tory Burch.

Are those gorgeous, or what? They are on the top of my "want" list right now.

Getting Old

2011-06-30T18:04:00.023-04:00

I do agree with the idea that age is more a state of mind and I personally feel "young" for the most part. However, since I've turned 40 I've noticed some things about getting older that make me feel, for lack of a better word, old.

Muscles get sore that never got sore before -- muscles I don't think I ever knew I had
Taking Advil (or similar) becomes a much more regular thing
Hair color goes from a nice to have to a must have
It takes more than an extra cup of coffee to make up for one late night
The 5 pounds you put on over a week's vacation, don't just disappear a week or two after you return from vacation
The amount of stuff you don't know seems to grow
People in their twenties now really do seem like they come from a different generation and, frankly, I think of them as kids
I sometimes have to question if a skirt or a pair of shorts are too short
I sometimes have to question if an item of clothing or accessory is too trendy or "young"
I often have to choose between skin care that fights wrinkles and skin care that fights pimples
Kids' movies make me fall asleep
Kids' TV shows drive me away from the TV
I frequently ask Zoe to turn down the volume

Since I'm still about 30 years away from being able to take Social Security I think I'll have to work more on the list of the ways I feel young.

The Cosmetics Counter: Surf Spray

2011-06-29T18:00:00.001-04:00

Since I have rather short hair I don't use much in the way of hair products. My hair usually requires very little in the way of styling and I tend to not go in for expensive shampoos, conditioners or other styling products. However, last time I got my haircut my hair dresser used a new product (or at least new to me) called "Surf Spray" on my hair and the results were really great so I decided to go ahead and buy it.

When I first got home with it I felt like I had probably blown $25 since everyone knows there is some kind of magic that happens to your hair in the hair salon that can never be re-created at home. I am happy to report that I was completely pleasantly surprised. This stuff magically adds thickness and texture. I spray it on and then just rub my hair while drying it. What could be easier? I thought maybe it only worked in short hair, but a few weeks ago Zoe let me try it on her longer hair and it also had great results.

So, if you're looking for something to give your hair texture (not smooth, sleek, straight) give it a try. It is supposed to be the texture you get after a day at the beach. Not sure that is exactly true, but it is still pretty cool stuff.

Tea at the Plaza

2011-06-27T17:08:00.000-04:00

Last week was a pretty terrific week. The school year ended, I hosted a successful party/book swap with my reading friends, the always lovely Emily came for a visit, I waived to Barack Obama, I rode in one of the new MetroNorth train cars, and, best of all, I was taken for tea at the Plaza. Really everything that comes before on this list pales in comparison because tea at the Plaza is a truly special event.

Going to tea at the Plaza is not something I would have thought of doing, but the aforementioned lovely Emily gave me this wonderful experience as my 40th birthday present. We arrived in New York City in the late morning and did a bit of this and that including some fabulous window shopping at Tiffany's and Henri Bendel. Before we knew it it was almost our reservation time so we made our way up 5th Ave to The Plaza.

I'd never been inside the Plaza before and the lobby did not disappoint. We were seated immediately and we ooh'd and ah'd over the menu, the setting, the lovely piano music playing softly in the background. And after a somewhat hilarious search for the restrooms, we relaxed into what is basically a spa-like experience that involves food and tea instead of facials or massage.

Of course I made good use of my iPhone to document the experience so here are some pictures:

The tea service including champagne.

Close up of the most delicious cucumber sandwich.

The Lovely Emily and her champagne.

The portrait of Eloise that hangs in the hallway off the lobby.

It truly was a magical experience that I will never forget. When we left The Plaza I felt like I was returning to Earth after having been in some magical place. I highly recommend the experience as a special treat or to celebrate a special occasion.

Thank you again Emily!

Tuesday Shoesday: The Purse Edition

2011-06-21T07:02:00.000-04:00

My failure to find inspiring shoe designs has led me to two related conclusions.

1. I need to do more than just shop online

2. I need to find new shopping sites/stores

As a result of my desire to branch out I've spent a fair amount of time online looking at Etsy.com and some other similar sites. I'm sure it is not news to say that Etsy is a great site. There are some really interesting things to be found on that site -- certainly from the sublime to the ridiculous and most certainly in overwhelming quantity. I decided to narrow my exploration to an area I love almost as much as shoes. Purses, of course!

There are about a million great bags, but I picked out a few I really liked. They are all fairly affordable especially compared to a Coach bag or Kate Spade despite the fact that they are some of the more expensive bags to be found on the site.

Stripe Handbag with leather detail

If I were in need or particular want (since "need" rarely is a factor with purses) of a a new tote this one would be high on my list. The details and colors are modern and casual, but at the same time the bag looks like it would work for a lot of occasions.

Tan Leather Clutch with Birds and Sunglasses

This bag is all about the details. How great is that lining? Click the link to see how gorgeous it is closed up too. If this were a "designer" bag I am sure it would sell for at least $250.00 or more.

Handmade Framed Clutch

This is a gorgeous evening bag. I already have a couple of dresses this would work with. Now I just wish I had somewhere to go!

Next time I think I'll look at jewelry.

Father's Day Poem

2011-06-20T17:29:00.000-04:00

This was Zoe's gift to Rob for Father's Day:

Transcript/Translation:

My Dad

my dad is blue
he smells like yellow cake
with [chocolate] frosting
he looks like green beach
glass
he sounds like [his] goofy
laugh after I say
the word [guinea] (gin-e)
horns
he feels [like] the warm and
tight hug he gave me
when it was the first day
of [kindergarten] as I got
on bus 14
he taste[s] like Barbecued
steak and [whoopie] pies
my dad make[s] me [feel] [confident]

I think I may just have to have this framed.

Tuesday Shoesday: Complete Lack of Inspiration

2011-06-14T06:23:00.002-04:00

I've been wanting to do a Tuesday Shoesday post for a couple of weeks now and the fact is I can't find any shoes to get excited about. I am completely sick and bored of strappy, wedges, gladiator style, impossible architectural styles, espadrilles, cork and ankle wrapping. The only relief is in the classics and even there, I can find no real joy.

I am just going to come out and declare that this is the summer of bad shoes.

I would never say this for any other reason, but I am looking forward to what fall will bring.

The Corrections

2011-06-13T18:00:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it, but I actually finished all 576 pages of The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen. It took me 21 days to get through it and there were many points where I felt like giving up. And now I am just trying to make sense of what I read.

When I declared yesterday that I had finished the book my mother asked me if I liked it and I couldn't really answer the question. After a rather slow start it did become compelling reading. There is no question that the writing is excellent and that Mr. Franzen is quite gifted. There were sections that I could not put down. One morning Zoe almost missed her bus because I was too engrossed in reading to notice the time. From that it sounds like I really liked it, but the big problem I'm having is that I pretty much despised all of the characters and had only fleeting sympathy or empathy for them.

The novel is a story of an American family, but possibly the worst American family ever. I mean, there's no incest or physical abuse, but the psychological dysfunction, the dishonesty, and the complete lack of warmth and compassion was just harrowing and disgusting. We all do or have done some colossally stupid and self-destructive things in our lives, but typically (or hopefully) these moments are limited and we live through them. The characters in this book are all like the darkest story in your family history. Am I so naive to think most people and most families are not really like this? Yes, families struggle, but do family members really treat each other this way? Yes, no one can hurt your feelings like your family can but do they feel the same hatred and loathing for each other? I don't know, but I hope not.

I am left utterly confused by the point of this epic story. In the end hasn't this family basically sacrificed one of its members and laid all the blame for everything that has gone wrong at his feet so that they can move on with their lives? Mr. Franzen names the town they are from St. Jude and, of course, St. Jude is the patron saint of lost causes. It seems to me they are all lost causes wether they pick themselves up and move on or not. Partly I was left feeling afraid that some day Zoe would drop me off in a nursing home and be glad to be rid of me. And partly I was left feeling grateful that my family is more honest and loving than this one.

I still can't tell you if I liked the book. As an antidote I am now reading Names My Sisters Call Me by Megan Crane which I stole from the shelves of Becky when there was nothing she could do about it. [Cue evil laughter]

Anyone else out there read The Corrections who can help me out with some insight?

Ten Things I Can't Do Without

2011-06-06T20:00:00.002-04:00

Trolling around the internet this evening, I got this idea here and I really liked it so here goes: (Zoe and the internet just have to go without saying.)

1. Chapstick.

Yes, it probably is addictive, but I don't care because I love it and use it multiple times per day and I'm not sorry.

2. Coffee. Duh.

3. My iPhone. I rarely go anywhere without it. I love it more than any gadget I have ever had and I have had a lot of gadgets and given them a lot of love.

4. Clinique All About Eyes concealer. Without it I would be frequently mistaken for a raccoon.

5. Email. Sad, but true fact is I would have no friends if it weren't for email. I am simply horrible at picking up the phone to talk. I am just not good at chatting, but if you email me, I will email you back.

6. Reading. What else would I even do with that time? I have no idea. (Notice I didn't say books. I am all about eBooks and e-reading at last.)

7. Ice Cream. Yes, I love candy, but my most favorite treat is ice cream. I would give up candy for ice cream almost every time.

8. The Gym. I should hope so given my love of ice cream and candy, but also I am just plain addicted to working out. I would not make it through the week without the stress release that a good workout can be. I go to the gym or the Pilates studio 5 to 6 times per week, no fooling.

9. Sirius Satellite Radio. Or as I like to call it, crack-radio. I've had Sirius in my car for the past 7 years and I really can't imagine how I would go back to listening to the regular radio ever again. Forget CDs or iPods too. Sirius is the only way to travel. Plus, since starting to work from home, I also can listen while I work via their website. It's just awesome listening and I have discovered so much great music because of it.

10. Rob. Maybe I should have listed him with the obvious, but just in case, you should all know that, crazy as he is, he really helps me stay sane. I couldn't love him more.

Mystic (no pizza)

2011-05-31T20:30:00.000-04:00

With softball, all of Zoe's other activities, work, and family stuff life has been pretty busy lately so we decided to declare what we like to call "family day" this past Sunday. This is when Rob, Zoe, and I spend an entire day together doing something fun. We chose a visit to Mystic Seaport for our "family day" adventure. Zoe is still into Moby Dick and Mystic Seaport seemed like a good way to bring a bit of the story to life.

We were fortunate enough to have no traffic and pretty good weather. It was a fun day walking around and seeing the re-enacters and getting to walk on board the tall ships. The re-created Amistad is especially powerful to see.

When you go to amusement parks and zoos and the like they often have those murals or just animals that are made with face-sized cutouts expressly designed for pictures. At Mystic Seaport they had one of the best of these I've ever seen. I think Zoe and Rob really bring it to life here:

Sadly we did not get to Mystic Pizza for dinner, but we did stop in at the shops at Old Mistick Village and got our requisite fudge and other trinkets before heading back home. All-in-all it was a great family day.

Things I Never Thought I'd Say

2011-05-27T20:51:00.000-04:00

You know how when you're a smug twenty-something you are sure you'll never do or say certain things as a parent? Yeah, me too. Until I had my own kid, of course.

I didn't actually say it, but I really wanted to say it. It is one of the worst Mom lines there is. It is the one that always made me cry harder and feel more miserable. The one that made it crystal clear that you did not have an ally in Mom. Can you guess?

Zoe was crying over some minor injury which I felt was mostly imagined and then as my mother was trying to soothe her she started searching for more things to be upset about. It is a special talent of Zoe's to find things to cry about. Since I was already annoyed with the first reason she was crying the adding on was really getting to me.

And that's when it happened. The words formed in my head and were on their way out of my mouth. It was a miracle that I was able to stop myself from saying...

If you don't stop crying, I will give you something to cry about.

Week in Review by Memolane

2011-05-20T07:59:00.002-04:00

I love Memolane! It creates these great timelines of all your online activity. Here's my timeline for this week:

Be sure to scroll left and right using the arrows at the top.

My Slugger

2011-05-19T17:45:00.001-04:00

Those of you who follow me on Twitter or Facebook already know that Zoe is playing softball this year. It is her first year and she is in the "A" Division which is for the youngest girls. She is actually oldest among the youngest, but that is a whole birthdate thing that probably works in her favor. (If you've read Malcolm Gladwell's The Outliers, you know what I mean.)

Zoe never really expressed an interest in softball, but I really thought she should try a team sport and I don't know why, but I thought she would be good at softball as well as really enjoy it. Happily I have been right on both counts (so far, of course).

Turns out this has also been good for me. In some moment of weakness or maybe it was something else, I volunteered to be the team manager. I don't know the first thing about softball, but Zoe's team had no manager and since managing is definitely in my skill-set I agreed (a little begrudgingly, I must admit). I have never really been a big volunteer at school or other kid-related activities. Its just not my thing. So label me surprised because I have to say it has actually been, well, fun. I've made some new friends in the team coaches and parents and feel like I am part of a new community plus I feel like I am helping to make the experience special for Zoe since it is our thing together now.

I'm really proud of how Zoe has done on the team so far. I enjoy the fact that it really is about learning the game for the girls at this age so the competitive factor is low. I was told at my first managers meeting that the goal of A Division is to get the girls to want to come back and play again next year. I think our team, The Purple Bulldogs, is doing a good job working toward that goal. Overall, despite the fact that it has given both Zoe and I very busy schedules this spring, softball has been a great addition to our lives.

All this has really been so I can post this photo:

The Brown T-Shirt

2011-05-18T03:29:00.001-04:00

Did you ever get it into your head that you had to have something in order to make your wardrobe complete? Perhaps it is a particular pair of shoes or dress, but it is something and there are exact details in your head about what it has to be.

Last fall I fel that way about gold ballet flats. I had a mental image of what I wanted, but I had to do a fair amount of research and shopping in order to find a pair that lived up to my mental image. After and exhaustive several mall, many website search I finally found them at the Cole-Haan outlet I did feel temporarily as though my wardrobe was complete.

Now it is a brown t-shirt. Not just any old brown t-shirt, but a nice brown t-shirt, what I like to call a "dressy t-shirt." Not a grey t-shirt, not a beige t-shirt, but a brown t-shirt. The added complication is that it has to come in petite sizes. I am short and regular t-shirts are usually way too long. Unfortunately brown is not a big color for spring and early summer clothes. At least not from what I've seen in stores. I've seen a few options that almost qualify such as:

from Ann Taylor Loft

And this one:

from Eddie Bauer

But I'm still not in love. Not crazy about the beige-ness of the shirt form Ann Taylor Loft even though I do like the design. I like the color of the Eddie Bauer shirt, but I'n not crazy about the detail around the buttons. Last night I went so far as to order these two t-shirts from Old Navy because I had a 20% off coupon and their petite sizes fit me well.

But I am not convinced either of these will be the t-shirt I am after. Anyone have any suggestions? I am willing to spend a little more than I usually would to fulfill this clear wardrobe need.

The Ennui

2011-05-17T17:47:00.001-04:00

How do you know when it is time to move on? (No, not from Rob. He may not be perfect, but I sure do love him.)

I may never have used or thought of the word "ennui" correctly until now. That really seems to sum up how I have been feeling about work lately. I don't want to go into a whole long list of details about why I am feeling this way because you never know who's reading this (my biggest fear being boring to tears anyone reading this), but it is becoming increasingly clear that I need to think about making a change. And, of course, what is the only thing worse than being dissatisfied? Change!

Here's the thing...I work from home. There are pros and cons to working from home, but certainly some of the biggest pros have to do with Zoe. I am always here for her before and after school. I can pick her up when she is sick, I can help her with her homework, I can take her to after school activities, and I never have to worry about picking her up from after in time. In other words, I get to have the best of both worlds for a working mom and a stay-at-home mom. If I have to go back to commuting to an office that will all have to change and that is the biggest thing holding me back from seriously pursuing a new job.

I've updated my resume. I've updated my LinkedIn profile. I've asked for recommendations. I've perused many job postings. I've tweaked my resume and my profile. I think I'm technically ready to start putting myself out there. Now I just have to get mentally ready. (And I'll have to get wardrobe ready too, naturally.)

The thing about Mother's Day

2011-05-09T10:25:00.000-04:00

The thing about Mother's Day is that you have to figure out how to celebrate all the Moms in your life and realistically that is not always possible. When you are like me and have a mother of my own and a mother-in-law both nearby things can get complicated. Very often, dare I say almost every time, Mother's Day is never about me. It is about my Mom or Rob's Mom. Sometimes it is about Aunts and sisters-in-law too. Don't get me wrong, I am pleased to celebrate all the mothers in our life, but there's only so much time in one weekend and when you're in a situation like mine, you don't usually end up getting to do something for yourself.

I know I am not alone in this situation therefore I really think there needs to be one set strategy or hierarchy for dealing with this. Perhaps each family needs to set their own and maybe it should be decided when you get married? I don't know how it would work though. When I even start trying to think about it my head hurts. Every year we hit the same problem: too many mothers and not enough time.

I know I should be grateful that I have my mother, my mother-in-law, my sisters-in-law and my daughter who all want to celebrate Mother's day with me and I am. And I am very grateful and consider myself lucky. I know a time will come around when my mother and my mother-in-law won't be around just as I know a time will come when Zoe wishes me "Happy Mother's Day" via text message from wherever life has taken her.

Perhaps the problem is really with the holiday itself? Do we really need Mother's Day? I mean we all know it is a Hallmark invented occasion that is fully supported by the florists and jewelry stores, so why do we invest so much into it? I really don't know. I guess we're suckers for marketing.

All I do know is that almost every year on Mother's Day (since I became a mother, of course) I end up feeling like all I did was run around to please others which leaves me feeling simultaneously taken for granted and selfish and that just seems completely counterintuitive to the spirit of the day

Kids love lists

2011-04-29T17:37:00.001-04:00

I used to think it was only Zoe who liked to make lists of everything from her favorite colors to places she'd like to visit to potential band names, but it turns out my niece, Sophia, is also quite the list maker. We had the pleasure of having her as a sleepover guest last week and prior to her visit, she made this list of things she wanted to do while staying with us.

Unfortunately the actual list got wet when a cup of water was spilled on it in the night, but here is an annotated transcript:

See Rio [the movie -- lucky for Sophia and Zoe Grandma was in charge of most of the activities so they even got to see it in 3D]
Order Govie's Pizza [Actually it is Giove's and for reasons that remain a mystery to me and despite the plethora of really good pizza places in our area, it is a favorite with kids. They deliver so that was dinner.]
Play puppies [I can't say for sure if this took place, but it is checked off on the list so I guess it did.]
Acrobat show [We opted to skip this one. I wanted to return Sophia to my brother and sister-in-law in one piece.]
Talk [Oh, there was no lack of talking with a 7 and a 9 year old.]
read Books [Now this is one I can really support. Both Zoe and Sophia are voracious readers.]
take a bath [Nah, they weren't that dirty]
go get our nails done [Again lucky for the girls that Grandma was in charge. Sophia got pink nails, and Zoe got highlighter green.]
draw [Again, I have no proof, but it is checked off]
watch a movie [Not including Rio, I guess. They did watch the available for free on Netflix streaming Imagine That starring none other than Eddie Murphy. I'm not sure, but I think Zoe and Sophia could have made up a better movie on their own with 2 hours and a video camera, but they really enjoyed it so what do I know?]
ride scooter [They did, in fact, ride scooters, but only for 10 minutes. Maybe less.]

All-in-all I'd say it was a pretty successful sleepover according to Sophia's list.

Tuesday Shoesday: Espadrilles

2011-04-26T17:35:00.001-04:00

When the going gets tough, the tough go shoe shopping. Things got kind of tough last week so ...

Now that the weather has finally turned warm I am ready to think seriously about warm weather footwear. As opposed to sandals I have been drawn to the flat espadrilles I've been seeing around (not the skyscraping wedge variety).

Here are some that I like:

Franco Sarto

Kate Spade

Michael Kors

Steven

The nice thing is that all of these are relatively affordable. I guess since they are primarily constructed from canvas and rope, that makes sense. That and they probably don't last more than one summer.

Naturally my favorites are the Kate Spade pair although I'd like to try on the Stevens to see how those stay on your feet.

Questions for 3pm on a Monday

2011-04-18T15:26:00.000-04:00

When can I take a sick day that's really what I like to call a "sick of work" day? This entails much calendar analysis.
What should I read next? I very often finish a book or come close to finishing a book on the weekends. Right now I am trying to convince myself not to buy a new book for my Nook, but to read one of the books I have stacked on my shelf or by my bed that are unread.
What should I make for dinner? As often as not this is the first time I've thought about it for the day which means I probably haven't defrosted any meat. The other times, like today, I've usually taken out chicken breast so it is a matter of what chicken recipe to use. Nothing too ambitious, I am sure.
What activities does Zoe have this week? I must check my meeting calendar against my taxi calendar.
What's the deal with tumblr.com? Who uses it and what's good about it and/or better than my Google reader? I'm not sure I get it and I'm sure I don't like that I don't really get it.
Why isn't there a shopping site (like Land's End or Piperlime or Sephora) that would give me stuff for free if I would blog about it? I really would blog about it.
Is there anything worth watching on TV tonight? Mondays so often are the worst night for TV shows, but it is also the night I most want to zone out in front of the TV.
What can I have for a snack? I want something filling, but not too caloric or sugary.
How much Diet Coke really is too much? Because I think it is Diet Coke or nap right about now.
Is this list of questions long enough for a decent blog post? I hope so because I can't think of anything else I am pondering this Monday.

So Beautiful or So What

2011-04-15T08:15:00.003-04:00

I'm a music fan, of course, but I am a Paul Simon devotee. I am pretty sure my father played Simon and Garfunkle records for me while I was in utero. There isn't a time I can recall that listening to the music of Paul Simon (or Simon and Garfunkle) wasn't completely appropriate. His music is probably the soundtrack of my life and I have a million memories wrapped up in so many of his songs.

I don't know how many albums (or whatever they are called these days -- releases?) he's had and I certainly don't have them all, but this week he came out with a new one, So Beautiful or So What, and I have to say it is seriously fabulous. Possibly the best complete album I've heard in a very long time. The single that was released a few weeks ago, The Afterlife, has been playing in my head since I first heard it. It's rare that I feel so strongly about music that I feel the need to write about it, but for some reason, in this case I really do feel the need. Probably because one of the things I love about Paul Simon's music is the poetry of the lyrics and this album is chock full of poetry. (What is a song without the lyrics, anyway? Don't actually answer that.) Here's an awesome excerpt from The Afterlife:

Buddha and Moses and all the noses
From narrow to flat
Had to stand in the line
Just to glimpse the divine
What’cha think about that?

You can find all the lyrics along with all the lyrics to all Paul Simon songs here: http://www.paulsimon.com/music/so-beautiful-or-so-what/afterlife

And if you're interested in previewing the album before purchase, the whole thing is on constant streaming here: http://www.paulsimon.com/news/so-beautiful-or-so-what-online-listening-party

Blog-iversary

2011-04-14T13:45:00.000-04:00

6 years of ZoesMom! I can't believe I've been blogging for so long. Thanks to everyone who's reading!

For fun, here's where it all started: http://zoesmom.blogspot.com/2005/04/new-job-day-1.html

Tuesday Shoesday: Pucci Please

2011-04-12T17:10:00.000-04:00

I'm sure I need these:

Now I am off to find:

The money to afford them
A place to wear them

I'll let you know how it turns out!

Book Review: Unbearable Lightness: A Story of Loss and Gain

2011-04-10T16:03:00.000-04:00

Unbearable Lightness: A Story of Loss and Gain
by Portia De Rossi.

I don't know why I was drawn to reading this book. Fortunately I don't have an eating disorder, I was never a big fan of Ally McBeal or Arrested Development or even Portia De Rossi, but even so something drew me to this book and I'm glad for it.

First of all, I am now a Portia De Rossi fan. Her honest and compelling writing made this book impossible to put down. It was good that I knew there was happiness in store for her or I think I would have been sobbing much of the time I was reading this book. It is always amazing to learn the truth about something or someone that appears so different on the outside. Her fight against herself even when it seemed like she should have been sitting on top of the world is an utterly heartbreaking account and it says a lot about the message sent to women and what it means to be successful.

I have been on a number of diets. I have felt bad about eating something "bad" and I have exercised as a counteraction for that. I always thought that anorexia was born out of some abuse either mental or physical or some other trauma, but now I see that is not the case. I don't think I am in danger of becoming anorexic, but I can see now how it can happen and it does make me worry that much more for my own daughter who is on the verge of entering those tender years of body changes.

I can't recommend this book more highly to women as well as to men who love women who struggle with weight issues.

Is that alll there is?

2011-04-07T21:33:00.000-04:00

Did you ever have one of those days when you:

Get up early to shower and dress
Wake your husband so he is not late for work
Wake your kid(s) up for school
Make sure your kid(s) get dressed, hair brushed, etc.
Make breakfast for your kid(s)
Feed the dog
Pack lunch for kid(s)
Put in a load of laundry
Take kid(s) to the bus stop
Take something out of the freezer to cook for dinner
Go to work
Work all day
Scrounge something for lunch
Eat while working
Drive kid(s) to and from after school activities
Cook dinner
Do dishes and clean up the kitchen
Fold a load of laundry
Make sure kid's backpack is ready for the next day at school
Sign permission slips
Write check to the PTA for fundraiser
Make sure kid(s) bathe, get pajamas on, get into bed
Pay bills
Return phone call from your mother-in-law
Sit down on the couch and fall asleep 10 minutes into your favorite show
Drag yourself up to bed
Set alarm to start all over tomorrow
Lay in bed and think just before you fall back to sleep "is that all there is to my life?"

(Of course not every day is like that at all, but sometimes it feels that way.)

5 Things that make me fall asleep

2011-04-03T12:31:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I have trouble falling asleep, but usually my problem is staying asleep. However, in case I do ever find myself in need of something to help me fall asleep I have composed this list of 5 things guaranteed to bring on sleep almost instantaneously:

1. The opening monologue of Saturday Night Live
2. Any segment of the The Daily Show with Jon Stewart before the guest
3. The last 5 pages of a book
4. Animated movies
5. The "reveal" portion of any reality show, but especially "What Not to Wear" or "Top Chef"

Tuesday Shoesday: Old School

2011-03-29T06:26:00.004-04:00

After my disappointment in the sandal selections I've seen so far this year I've decided that this spring I'm going old school. Classics always work, right?

So, I'm thinking I'll start with some new docksiders:

Throw in some flat espadrilles (not the 5 inch platform type):

Some simple wedge peep-toes for going out or work stuff:

And top it all off with some real old-school kicks:

Now that's a shoe wardrobe I could be proud of!

Shopping with Zoe

2011-03-26T19:52:00.002-04:00

Used to be that shopping with Zoe was something to be avoided -- especially when shopping for anything that is not specifically for her. Lately things have been improving.

A few weeks ago I dragged her into Sephora and at first she was complaining about how long it was going to take, but then I showed her how she can try on the make up and she was completely enthralled. I ended up having to drag her out of the store. Needless to say she was quite colorfully made up.

Last week she and I walked into town so I could go to a sale at Ann Taylor loft. The entire store was 30% off so I obviously felt compelled to check it out. I shopped the store as quickly as possible, but I wanted to try on a couple of dresses I'd found. Amazingly Zoe did not even roll her eyes when I asked her to come into the dressing room with me.

She sat patiently while I tried things on. She offered a few kind opinions. When I was trying on the dress I ended up buying and she said I looked like a model. And she was sincere. Perhaps that helped me make the decision to buy it?

The best part was when I was getting dressed back in my clothes and she told me, "I really like that shirt! You should definitely get that shirt!" And when I told her that was my shirt from home she said, "You have really good taste. "

I wish I had a recording of that moment to be played back when she's about 15...

My (not so) Secret Love of (romance) Novels

2011-03-25T16:51:00.000-04:00

Don't tell anyone this, but over the last several months I've come to gradually realize something about myself: I really like romance novels. OK, not the bodice-rippers with Fabio on the cover, but the ones I have been drawn to are grouped in the sub-genre of "contemporary romance." Up until recently I think I had been fooling myself by calling them "chick lit" but it turns out they are largely the same thing.

In all honesty it is difficult to discern the difference between most books that would be called "chick lit" and others that are classified as "romance." I think the only major difference I've noticed is that the "kissing scenes" (you know what I mean and how do you learn to write those well?) are better in the romance novels. Otherwise the characters are all very similar: nerdy girl who is really beautiful, but doesn't know it, beautiful girl who is really smart, but misunderstood, bad guy who is really good, good guy who is really bad. You know the drill.

Isn't it funny that I was comfortable all this time calling them and liking them as "chick lit" but something about the name "romance" brought out the complete snob in me? Maybe I'm not as smart as I like to think of myself or maybe, just maybe, there's nothing at all wrong with a good romance novel. Probably both.

Now remember, don't tell. Unless you want a few recommendations...

9 Years Ago Today...

2011-03-21T10:05:00.001-04:00

...my beautiful Zoe was born.

Absolutely the best thing that ever happened to me.

On Tooth Fairy, Easter Bunny and Santa Claus

2011-03-17T13:40:00.000-04:00

Yesterday evening as Zoe was taking a bath and I was supervising, she asked me a very important question.

She said, "Mom, can you tell me now?"

"Tell you what?" I asked.

"You know. What you wouldn't tell me this weekend when Joseph was here," she looked at me imploringly. "Is there a Tooth Fairy?"

[Backstory: My nephew Joseph slept over last Friday night and it just so happened that he lost a tooth so the Tooth Fairy had to come to our house.]

"Are you sure you want to know?" I asked while furiously thinking through my answer.

"Yes! Please tell me the truth. The real truth."

"OK," I took a deep breath and told her. "There is no Tooth Fairy." My heart broke a little as I watched Zoe's face. She took the news well. I think she already knew the answer, but something about saying it out loud makes it so definite.

"That's a good thing!" she said. "I didn't like the idea of someone flying into my room at night. What else isn't real?"

"Well," again I hesitated. "There's no Easter Bunny."

Again she took it well. "Yeah, how could a bunny carry those baskets around?"

"Daddy likes to play the Easter Bunny so don't tell him you know," I told her.

"I won't tell," she smiled. Then her face turned serious. "But Santa?"

"Santa is real," I told her.

"Of course he's real. Santa brings me things you say no to," she confirmed.

I felt a little bit sad about that whole conversation and I think Rob was a little upset with me when I told him about it, but I think I did the right thing. I think...

What Zoes Do Best

2011-03-16T09:25:00.000-04:00

It is standardized testing time at Zoe's school and I think, the entire state of Connecticut. I have mixed to ambivalent feelings about these tests, but Zoe seems to be handling them well so I am not going to worry too much about it right now, but it is something to take seriously since it becomes part of Zoe's record as a student.

However, I have discovered that there is a secret upside to the testing period that no one talks about. During the two weeks of testing there is no homework. This is like a vacation for me as a parent. Not once this week or last have I had to worry about when Zoe will do her homework nor have I had to review it or help her with it or anything. When she gets home from school I don't have to drop everything to asses the homework situation. It's hard to explain what a small, but meaningful joy this is.

Zoe has a daily planner that she is supposed to write her daily homework assignments in and last night as I was emptying her backpack I noticed that on the planner in the entry for yesterday she had written "Do what Zoes do best." I asked her what that meant. She said her teacher told them they should do what they do best after school today and that for her it meant "running, jumping, and being loud." Of course. At least she knows herself well!

Tuesday Shoesday: Sandals?

2011-03-15T17:12:00.006-04:00

So, it is finally March which means I can allow myself to start thinking about warmer weather and, of course, sandals! In the past few days I've done some clicking around on my favorite shoe sites and I have to say I'm underwhelmed with what I have seen so far. Here is a montage of what seems to be out there:

I have to say I'm over all of these looks. Been there, done that, and in the case of the Dr. Scholls, even twisted the ankle. Now what? No sandal purchase to look forward to this year? Luckily I am on a limited budget so I won't feel too desperate, but still, there has to be something. I guess I'll force myself to keep looking...

Birthday Wish List

2011-03-14T17:42:00.002-04:00

Zoe's 9th birthday is just one week away.

Before I go on I just have to say, OMG Zoe is going to be 9!!!! How can that be?

OK, so I asked Zoe to write down a few things that she wanted for her birthday for me and to tell family when they asked. In truly Zoe-fashion here is the list she came up with:

This list makes me laugh in so many ways. Probably my favorite thing is the title:
20 14 things I want for my birthday... and then she only put down 12 things! The check marks after some of the items indicate that those are things she really, really wants.

I've opted to fulfill wishes 2, 4, 6, 9 (Yes, you're reading that correctly, she is looking for a paperback copy of Moby Dick. I managed to find an abridged and illustrated children's version.) and 12 (we have an old-fashioned gumball machine in our basement that she would like to have in her room).

I think Ima (Zoe's name for my mother) will be handling request #5 -- a trip to Build-a-Bear. Whoever invented Build-a-Bear is a capitalistic genius. That is one of the biggest money-making schemes I have ever seen. Ima already took care of #8 this past weekend, that's why it is crossed out.

Speaking of capitalistic genius, can't you just hear the commercial in item #3, the Vectron Wave? I love that she includes the price plus shipping and handling. Not something you're going to ask your sister-in-law or your mother-in-law to get, now is it?

About the only easy item on the list to pass to a family or friend is #1 (a game for the Wii for those of you that don't know) and maybe #7.

I do love that kid.

Dress Shopping

2011-03-06T11:22:00.000-05:00

In about 2 weeks we have a family bar mitzvah to attend. This means that we all need something nice to wear which also means we must go shopping. I never mind shopping, but it is not Zoe's favorite thing to do. Especially since this is a mandatory dress wearing occasion. Zoe really, really did not want to go dress shopping.

Truth be told, I can really relate to the feeling. When I was about the same age that she is now my brother made his bar mitzvah and that meant I had to buy a dress. I can still remember sobbing in the dressing room over some frilly, white Gunne Sax dress (remember those??). I thought I would rather die than wear that dress or anything resembling it. Some girls love dresses and some like me and now Zoe recoil in horror at the thought.

Luckily for Zoe children's clothing is so much nicer, cuter, and cofortable than it ever was when I was a kid. I often find myself wishing I was a kid so I could wear some of the adorable clothes that are available for Zoe. Zoe is pretty picky about what she wears, but there's always things she likes.

Last Sunday we were at a birthday party and my brother and sister-in-law were there too so we decided to all hit the mall on the way home so we could do some shopping for the kids together. Zoe was not really excited about it, but having her cousins come with us made her more enthusiastic. We went straight to the children's department at Macy's and grabbed every dress each girl said they would try and what ensued was something out of a romantic comedy dressing room scene with the girls trying on dress after dress from the ridiculous to the sublime. It was quite amusing. Finally Zoe settled on the first dress she tried on and I happen to think she looks perfect in it.

Now we just need shoes...

Popcorn in Bed

2011-02-22T18:25:00.001-05:00

Last week I was in Dallas visiting my amazing friends Karen and Ashton, their daughter, and their brand new baby boy. Zoe and I went there together (sadly Rob had to stay home) and even though we didn't do anything like Disney or theatre or fancy schmancy restaurants, I had one of the best vacations ever. It started out about as well as a trip can start with a smooth and easy travel experience. From there, it only got better.

It was so good to just be with my friends. Isn't that always the way with visits with friends that are too far away? Holding, feeding, changing their new baby (who I think of as a nephew) was an absolute delight. It is amazing how much you forget about newborns when it has been awhile since you were around one. There was Tex-Mex, good burgers, some rollerskating, some shopping, some playground time and a lot of frozen yogurt, talking and girl-time. As per usual Karen and I picked up right where we left off.

One of the highlights of the trip, however, was simply watching TV and movies in bed with my friends after the kids went to sleep. Karen and Ashton were generous enough to let me have a whole third of their bed and it was all very cozy and very relaxing. (No funny business, you dirty minds.) My last night in town we even had popcorn in bed. Not just any popcorn, either. We had gourmet popcorn including what was the best caramel corn I have ever had (Hannah's Caramel Popcorn from Uptown Popcorn). As Ashton put it, it touched a previously unknown source of pleasure and happiness.

2011 got off to a bit of a rough start, but this trip really gave it a fresh glow.

Fear of Flying

2011-02-11T00:47:00.001-05:00

No, I am not channeling Erica Jong. I literally have a fear of flying. I don't know exactly when it started, but it can be pretty bad sometimes. I admit there are trips I haven't taken because I did not want to get on a plane. One time on a trip home on a small plane (the scariest kind!) I was so frightened that I had to ask a colleague if he would mind holding my hand. Being a gentleman, he did not mind and he did not tease me after.

For a long time I thought I was in the minority, but the more I admit my fear, the more people echo the sentiment back to me. Strangely that has made me feel better. Not feeling like I am the only one gripping the arm rest for dear life during take off or turbulence is oddly reassuring.

I was on a plane just yesterday and for the first time in a long time my fear was less than it has been. I attribute some of that, perhaps a lot, to the fact that I was traveling with Zoe and it was just the two of us. I was the only one in charge and looking out for her safety and I think that bolstered me a bit. Plus the fact that she was so calm seemed to help me to stay calm. I didn't want to panic in front of her or have her see me as anything less than in control so she would keep on feeling safe and happy. Zoe makes a great traveling companion because she is so enthusiastic about going new places and seeing new things. I don't want her to lose that enthusiasm especially not because of me. It really was like magic. I mean I think the vodka tonic I had mid-flight helped too, but overall it was a pretty good experience.

Snow Days

2011-02-01T21:08:00.001-05:00

Any parent of a school-age kid can tell you about the challenges of unexpected days off from school. Since we live in Connecticut this year has been extremely snowy and therefore we've had several snow days. As a matter of fact I'm not sure there has been a full week of school since Christmas break.

The first snow day was kind of fun. We had an unbelievable 2 feet of snow and the whole neighborhood was out that day. The kids were playing and the adults were shoveling, but everyone was in awe over the amount of snow and no one dreamed it would continue at that pace.

By the time this morning came and there was yet another snow day even Zoe sighed when I told her she wouldn't be going to school today. At this point most of the kids don't even want to play out in the snow anymore. So what do they do all day? That really is the question.

I can't allow Zoe to watch TV all day, but it sure is tempting at times. I can't be her source of entertainment all day either. I mean theoretically I am supposed to be working since I do work from home, but boy can that be challenging on a snow day. We are fortunate to have neighbors with kids the same age so we've all been hosting each other's kids, but that gets old (and really noisy). And now in order to avoid having the kids in school until July, it looks like the school will be forced to take away planned vacation days in April even though most of us would gladly give up the February vacation instead. As a matter of fact they should banish that February break permanently.

So basically this entire post is one long complaint about the excessive amount of snow and the
number of snow days we've had this year. I know there really isn't anyway to control this,
but I think it helps to whine a little.

Zoe Getting Her Ears Pierced

2011-01-24T18:39:00.000-05:00

I'm fairly certain Zoe has been asking to get her ears pierced for about a year. At first Rob insisted that we have it done at the doctor's office. I thought that was silly, but I told Rob that he should make an appointment then. Not surprisingly, that never happened. Actually each time Zoe brought it up, it was like we were having the conversation for the first time with Rob. But, this is about Zoe, not Rob.

Around Christmas time I gave up on that whole idea and told Zoe I would take her to get her ears pierced over the Christmas break. Unfortunately the snow storm stole the day I had picked and we had filled our week with too many other plans so we never did it. With nothing on the calendar this past Saturday and a desire to go to the mall I declared it ear piercing day. Zoe was so excited. She couldn't stop talking about it and thinking about it.

We arrived at the mall on Saturday afternoon and I asked Zoe if she wanted to go straight to Claire's, where they do ear piercing. I know if it were me I would want to go straight away, but not Zoe. She wanted to wait. She wanted it to be the last thing we did before leaving the mall. That's when I sensed there was some nervousness so I told her that she could back out of getting her ears pierced at any time (before I paid) and no one would be mad at her.

We shopped the afternoon away including an extended tour of Sephora and the Apple Store and finally there was nothing left to do, but go to Claire's. There was already a young girl getting her ears pierced when we arrived. She was just about to have it done and she started to cry. This set Zoe right on edge. I thought she would change her mind on the spot, but she didn't. She drifted around the store until it was her turn as she got more and more nervous. Finally it was her turn to get into the stool. The lovely girl who worked their hurriedly prepared everything and tried to explain that it wouldn't hurt while Zoe worked herself up into a slightly frantic state of tears. "I don't want to do it!" she finally cried and I said OK. But she didn't get up from the stool she just sat there clearly hesitating so I said,

"You've wanted this for so long and now here we are. It won't hurt, so just do it."

"No! I changed my mind!"

"OK, then let's go," I said. Rob took her arm to help her down from the stool, but again she didn't move. Rob and I looked at each other and we knew we had to kind of force her. That she wanted us to. So we both told her to just sit down and do it. The girls at the store were fantastic and they jumped right in and did it in a second.

Lo and behold, it did not hurt. Apparently we had attracted a crowd because as soon as it was done, there was a round of applause from another group waiting to get ears pierced. Zoe smiled really big once she realized it was done, it was wonderful. I could tell she felt so grown up and so special. She ran to look at herself in the mirror, all the tears of moments ago already long forgotten.

I have to say the earrings do look adorable and I am very glad she went through with it and am proud of her for it, but my only regret is that they make her look more grown up.

Here's a nice view just moments after the piercing was completed:

Zoe and the Violent Kids

2011-01-20T05:20:00.002-05:00

A couple of years ago Zoe told us she wanted to start a band and call it "Zoe and the Violent Kids." Rob and I thought that was a fantastic name for a band and we talked about the name a lot. Somehow this turned into something embarrassing for Zoe. I don't know how or understand why, but any time either of us mentions that name now, she pulls a pout, a serious "I'm not talking to you," kind of pout. Of course neither of us have patience for the pouting, but we have tried to respect her desire for us to refrain from mentioning it.

However, when my father showed me this picture he took of Zoe and her cousins I couldn't help but think this would be the perfect album cover for the Zoe and the Violent kids debut.

Either that or this looks like a movie still from an adaptation of "Lord of the Flies."

Tuesday Shoesday: Spring Dreams

2011-01-18T06:57:00.001-05:00

It's been and incredibly cold and snowy winter and sometimes the only thing that makes me feel better is dreaming about spring. The other day I thought I would start thinking about shoes for spring. True spring shoes are hard to come by. Many of them are really just summer shoes, and many others are just too flowery. I really didn't see anything that perked me up until today.

No surprise that today I found myself on the Kate Spade website looking at the new arrivals section and out popped this gorgeous shoe and it hit me, that is a spring shoe. If I could have, I would have ordered them immediately, but I think I'll have to save my pennies for a bit. It will be worth it. Besides I can't wear them now anyway so there's no point in having them here making me feel bad about all the snow and ice, right?

For now I'll just dream...

My Favorite Books & Movies of 2010

2011-01-10T20:26:00.003-05:00

Books:

I read 61 books in 2010, but these were the standouts for me.

Sense and Sensibility

That Old Cape Magic

The Two Lives of Miss Charlotte Merryweather

The Book Thief

Major Pettigrew's Last Stand

Movies:

I'd watch any of these movies again.

Coco Before Chanel

Hot Tub Time Machine (fabulously ridiculous)

Toy Story 3

Away We Go

The Black Swan

2011 Resolutions

2011-01-05T17:02:00.004-05:00

I like to take my time making my resolutions. The end of the year is such a flurry of activity that there's not really time to think things through until the dust of the holidays begins to settle. But now I have had time to think and here's what I've come up with...

1. Save -- last year was not a great year financially. I had hoped to get on a budget and I still hope to do that, but mostly I want to save more money for the inevitable rainy days.

2. Smile and have fun -- it sounds silly maybe, but I've been thinking about how important it is to look for the positive rather than focus on the negative. And that life should be more fun than drudgery or negativity. It is easy to get bogged down in what you don't have or can't do or don't want to do, butI have a lot to smile about and enjoy and life is generally better when you're smiling, laughing and having fun. And now that I have my braces off, smiling is a lot more fun!

3. Stay on top of my email -- email is a huge part of both my work life and my personal life and in last year's storm of work I let it all get out of control. I lost track of emails for work, I didn't reply to friends in a timely way, I generally let my email turn into chaos both in my work and personal accounts. There's no need for that. I am going to read email as soon as I can and then deal with it as soon as I can. That means responding or filing or deleting as appropriate. This maybe my biggest challenge of the year, but I think it will be worth it if I can make some real progress.

4. Continue eating well -- after working really hard to lose almost 30 pounds last year this past month I really slipped back into my old, bad ways of eating and it is showing on the scale (and in my jeans). I worked too hard to go back so (like millions of others) I am back on the good eating wagon with every intention of staying there. I feel better and I look better when I'm eating better so there's really no reason not to.

5. Commit to my blog -- last year I was pitiful in the amount of postings. I need to up it's priority and think about setting aside specific times for it -- maybe even a schedule. I don't want to stop blogging, but I don't want to do it half-assed either. I think that even if I can only commit to once a week, that is better than blogging only when I remember as I did it last year. I'm working on this plan. (And not giving up yet Ms. Musings. Thank you for the encouragement!)

2010: The Year in Review

2011-01-04T16:53:00.002-05:00

In January 2010 I made my usual list of resolutions. Let's see how the year stacked up to my goals.

Resolution #1
Make a budget. Stick to budget.

This one didn't work out so well. The bad economy lent a major hand in this one. Long story short, I'll have to try this one again.

Resolution #2
Blog more
Well, I'm 0 for 2 so far. I wanted to blog more, I really did, but I had the busiest year of work I have ever had. Any time I had away from work I also wanted away from the computer. I'm going to have to think about my blog in 2011.

Resolution #3
See more movies
Well, this one I did accomplish. I didn't get to the theater as much as I would have liked, but I did sign up for Netflix which includes streaming. My list of movies is pretty long, I think.

Resolution #4
Do some different stuff
This one I also accomplished and I'm really pleased about it too. I went ice skating a number of times, skiing a couple of times, took Zoe to a couple of new museums, went bike riding, took Pilates classes, and got an impractical car among the highlights.

Considering the year overall and that it was one of the most challenging work-wise, I think 50% is not a bad mark. Resolutions aren't supposed to be so easy otherwise why bother, right? So, I have hope to do a little better in 2011. Now it's time to start thinking about what my goals are going to be.

Bad Mommy Moments

2010-12-20T10:25:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I was reminded that the "Bad Mommy Moments" can happen to anyone. I spent a good portion of my day watching football. I am a sometimes football fan and this year, inexplicably, I am really into it. The first game up was 1pm Eagles @ Giants. I have to root for the Giants if for no other reason than I cannot root for a team that includes Michael Vick. He's a great player, but it doesn't change the fact that he's a dog killer.

Anyway, it started out as a great game for Giants fans. As a matter of fact the Giants were winning for most of the game. However, they managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory in a series of misplays including the game-ender when rookie kicker, Matt Dodge kicked the ball directly to the Eagles when he should have been kicking it out of bounds. If you want to read the full story I suggest you check out the NY Times or ESPN because I am certainly not a sports reporter.

The part that struck me was when the Giants coach Tom Coughlin started yelling at Matt Dodge for his misplay before he could even get off the field. He was really giving it to him in that slightly out-of-control way that reminded me of times I have yelled at Zoe out of sheer frustration more than anything else. You know, the "Bad Mommy" kind of yelling. It was funny to see it on stage for the world to see between two grown men, but it was the same kind of moment as I have had so many times. I can't say it made me feel better about the times this has happened to me, but it is good to know it can happen to anyone.

I can't find a video of the full yelling, but you can see the start at the end of this video:

Zoe Will Rock You

2010-12-10T11:44:00.002-05:00

Someone recently taught Zoe the lyrics to "We Will Rock You" by Queen and she's been singing it non-stop. Also doing the stomping and clapping, but mostly just singing. Hearing that song repeatedly can get annoying, but somehow coming from her it just sounds, well, paradoxically adorable. Last night in the shower she was singing away in her sweet little girl voice:

Buddy you're a boy make a big noise
Playin' in the street gonna be a big man some day
You got mud on yo' face
You big disgrace
Kickin' your can all over the place
Singin'
We will we will rock you
We will we will rock you

It just doesn't quite go, but it does make good comedy.

I've been trying to capture her on video, but haven't yet. Until I can post her version, here's the real thing:

I wonder where can I get some star-shaped sunglasses?

Tuesday Shoesday: I Love Target

2010-11-30T06:44:00.003-05:00

I have been a lover of Target for many, many years now. I can remember my first experience there in 1992 when I had just moved to Dallas. The northeast didn't yet know such a wonderful place could exist. I basically supplied my life from Target for the entire time I lived in Texas. However, not so much in the clothes and shoes area. I like to think of myself as somewhat stylish and back in those days Target and stylish didn't really equate. When Target did finally start opening stores in our area I was delighted to find that their clothes were much more stylish. Yes, they're not the best made clothes in the world, but that's OK for the price. However the workout pants turn grey and wear out at the same rate as the more expensive pairs I've owned and the kids' clothes really can't be beat.

Recently I've been really liking their shoes. (Finally we're getting to the important section of this post.) Last Spring I bought these black patent (non-leather) loafers for $24.99.

They are perfect loafers and they don't look (very) cheap. Best of all, they are excellent for rainy days since they are not real leather and they have a rubber sole. I've gotten tons of compliments on them and I'm even thinking of buying a second pair in case they stop carrying them after the ones I have wear out.

As you may have noticed knee-high boots are pretty popular these days, but for women like me who are afflicted with what I like to call "athletic" calves (some might call them "wide") it can be difficult to find knee high boots that pull up over or zip up. That pretty much ruled out the knee-high boot trend for me until last year when I tried on a pair at Target on a whim and I was amazed that they fit. They zipped right up. And they were only $29.99! Of course I bought them immediately and proceeded to wear and wear and wear them all winter. I had to throw them out at the end of the spring because they'd had it, but I think they served their purpose extremely well. This fall, I started looking for a replacement pair on my occasional trips to Target and just this past weekend I struck gold and found this excellent pair of black boots.

I'm going to try not to completely wear out this pair, but I fear that is unlikely because I really like them. I can't wait to wear them with some tights and a skirt.

So, if you're longing for some new shoes and you just don't have the cash, I highly recommend Target. Yes, not all the shoes are going to end up being as loved as these pairs have been for me, but even if you pay a lot for a pair of shoes, you don't get that guarantee, do you?

Gadget Goodness

2010-11-19T15:47:00.003-05:00

I am a complete gadget geek. I think it started with my Handspring or my original Rocket Book or maybe it goes all the way back to my Sony Walkman, but I love a good gadget no matter how short or long it's shelf life. Everyone knows I love my iPhone, but I was an iPod lover first. I got my first iPod in 2002 -- a second generation 20GB model that I still have. I am now the proud owner of 3 other iPods -- an 80GB classic, a shuffle, and a Nano. I can't really explain why because of course I don't need them all, but I can tell you I love them all and I use them all regularly.

There's nothing like Christmas time to put me in a gadget-getting frame of mind. Last year I was still so in love with my iPhone that there really wasn't another gadget I was craving. This year I think I'm ready for something, but what?

A Kindle? Maybe. I was kind of anti-Kindle at first. Maybe that's because I am slightly anti-Amazon, but the new version is so light and convenient that it really is tempting. Especially because my bookshelves are full and I don't have room for new ones.

An iPhone 4? Maybe, but there are already blogs and websites dedicated to the iPhone 5 which is rumored to be out Summer 2011. I think I'm going to hold out since there is nothing at all wrong with my current iPhone.

An iPad? Kind of expensive given the current economic outlook in my household, but a thing of beauty none-the-less. And at the same time, maybe I should hold out for iPad 2?

A Tivo Premiere? My love of Tivo is probably the only device that even comes close to my iPhone love. Then again, like my iPhone, there's nothing really wrong with my current Tivo.

What else? A wireless printer would be nice, but that's kind of boring. I've been thinking a UV Toothbrush cleaner would be a good idea, but that's kind of too ridiculous and too much like getting a blender or something. There are probably a few other kitchen gadgets I could use, but I don't know what they are except a Cuisinart. Again, not something I want to find under the tree.

OK, I guess I'll just tell Santa I want this.

Parent/Teacher Conference Night

2010-11-08T17:46:00.000-05:00

A few nights ago was Zoe's first third grade parent/teacher conference. I have to admit I was a little nervous going in. I think she's incredible -- smart, talented, funny -- but what if her teacher doesn't agree? What if she's got some horrible ways that I just can't see? What if I'm really a terrible mother and it shows all day every day of third grade??? Of course this was not my first parent/teacher conference, but what if Zoe had fooled all the teachers before and, at last, her third grade teacher was going to give me the awful truth?

OK, that didn't happen. In reality she's doing really well. She's excelling in reading, writing, and P.E. (that last one did not come from me). She's enjoying Social Studies and the research project they are doing on Native Americans. She needs to pay more attention to her handwriting (her sloppy handwriting also definitely not from me) and her math. Her teacher seems to genuinely like her and even when Rob and I made a few jokes about Zoe's tendency to talk a lot, her teacher did not really jump on the bandwagon and said she is quite attentive in class.

It kind of feels like walking on air when you walk out of a meeting like that knowing your kid is doing just fine.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T10:28:00.009-04:00

Halloween was lots of fun at our house this year. There were costumes, decorations, good company, good food and candy. What more could you really want out of a holiday?

It took Zoe weeks of agonizing and pouring over catalogs to decide on a homemade vampire bat costume. I was more than happy to help her and I think it turned out spooky if not entirely bat-like.

I had some fun with the cooking of dinner and went for another Halloween themed meal including monster meat loaf, hot dog mummies, cheesy brains (cauliflower casserole) and this, my personal favorite, Ghoulcamole and chips. I stole the idea from Martha Stewart to cut tortillas out with cookie cutters and bake them. They not only looked good, they tasted really good.

Rob, in all the years that we have been together has never once dressed in a costume for Halloween. Although if you ask me, he sometimes wears costumes in his daily life -- there's the gas station attendant look (dirty sweatshirt and dirty jeans), the college boy look (clean sweatshirt, shorts in winter, and baseball cap) and the car salesman look (nice shirt, nice tie, comfortable shoes). Zoe was desperate for Rob to dress up this year and she kept pestering him about it and he kept saying no so no one was more surprised than me when he appeared in the outfit pictured below which he claims is a poacher. I think it is a little more like scary militia guys, but either way it made Zoe very happy. (I came dressed in my usual costume.)

And how could the night be complete without dessert. You would think the candy would be enough, but I couldn't resist making these ghost cupcakes.

Anniversary Note

2010-10-20T19:38:00.003-04:00

This past Saturday, October 16, was our 11th wedding anniversary. In some ways 11 years sounds like a long time and in others, it sounds short. I haven't held any one job for 11 years, but I can barely remember not being married to Rob. A lot has happened over the years and obviously the most significant is Zoe. She certainly changed our lives both as individuals and by making us parents. It's been 99% joy being Zoe's parents (as I think this blog will attest) and one of the best parts is that she never ceases to surprise us.

On Saturday night Rob and I went out for a quiet dinner and a movie. (We saw The American with George Clooney -- don't bother.) Maybe not the most glamorous night out, but dinner and a movie is a treat we really enjoy doing together and we rarely get to do it. My Mom was home babysitting for Zoe. When we got home we found a note on the table and it was signed "Love, Zoe" but after reading it we were somewhat dubious about who the author really was because it just didn't sound like her at all. Here's her note...

Mom and Zoe both swear that it was fully Zoe's work. And the more I think about it, the more I am sure it was Zoe, but Zoe trying to sound grown up. It made us both laugh. It was a nice ending to a nice evening.

Out Here, On My Own

2010-10-13T19:31:00.002-04:00

I’ve been on a business trip to my company HQ in Santa Barbara, CA all week. It is the first time in a long time that I’ve been away without my family and it has been a strange experience. I know a week in Santa Barbara doesn’t sound like it would be a punishment, but since I am primarily working I haven’t seen much more than the inside of the office and the inside of my hotel room. I could really be anywhere and I am un-used to be alone so much of the time.

I think most Moms I know would say that a week alone sounds amazing. A week without laundry, bus stops, homework, cooking dinner, or cleaning up is kind of a vacation all on its own. But at the same time it is really weird! (And, frankly, a bit lonely.)

I think the fact that I now have been working from home for so long I am used to being home more often than not. I like to think of myself as an independent woman, but I haven’t had to really put that to the test in quite some time. On this trip I’ve had to travel across the country, rent a car, find my hotel, find the office, introduce myself around the office and eat a number of meals by myself. I realize that none of that sounds like a very big deal and it isn’t as if any one of these things has been particularly tough but put it all together and it is exhausting and completely out of my comfort zone.

I knew I would miss Rob, Zoe and my Mom, but I didn’t think I would feel it so much. I am used to having them around me everyday. I like having them around me everyday -- even if I do sometimes complain.

I head back Connecticut tomorrow and even though I don’t exactly look forward to going back to laundry, cooking, etc. I think I am going to have a new appreciation for my home and all the people in it.

[commence heels clicking]

Tuesday Shoesday: Striking Gold

2010-10-05T08:13:00.001-04:00

Did you ever buy an article of clothing or especially a pair of shoes and immediately incorporate it into your wardrobe so fast that it became a "go to" item overnight?

It doesn't happen often, even when you think it will. Sometimes things that you think will become your new staples turn out to be very disappointing. So, you know it is special when it does happen.

This past Saturday I was lucky enough to go to the Woodbury Commons outlets with my good friend and shopping buddy, Tracie. We got their early and stayed late. We hit every store that had a remote possibility of having treasures waiting for us. And boy did we find a lot of treasure -- so much that we filled up my little car. Beetle trunks are surprisingly big, but not that big. We had to employ the back seat too! (Sorry Mattio.)

OK, so, now we finally get to the shoes. I know it is boot-buying season and boots are everywhere, but I've had it in my head for awhile that what I'd really like is a pair of gold ballet flats. I don't know why, but I just really felt they would enhance my wardrobe. As luck would have it my golden treasure was waiting for me at the Cole Haan outlet where I scored these beauties:

This photo doesn't do them justice because it was surprisingly hard to get a decent picture of gold shoes. I don't have any good lighting around. I guess I should have tried outside in the daylight, but I digress.

These are the best shoes I've bought in ages. They were a bargain, they had my size, they are extremely comfortable, and they were exactly what I had in mind. I put them on first thing Sunday morning, wore them all day until I went to bed and then repeated the same today. I am going on a business trip next week and I am already planning my outfits around these shoes. I think they will look especially good with my navy blue dress.

Hooray for new shoes! If only all new shoe purchases could be this successful.

The Time Traveler's Meme

2010-10-03T19:34:00.003-04:00

I was tagged by the Queen herself for this one and since I helped provide the inspiration, I felt I really should take part in this meme.

The Rules:
1. Depending on your age, go back 10, 15, 20, or even more years.
2. Tell us how many years back you have traveled.
3. Pretend you have met yourself during that era, and tell us where you are.
4. You only have one "date" with this former self.
5. Answer the questions.

I'm going back 20 years...to my 19 year old self who would be a junior in college.

1. Would your younger self recognize you when you first meet?

I'm pretty sure I would recognize myself. I look pretty much the same, just older. However, I wasn't very self-aware when I was 19 so then again, I might not.

2. Would she be surprised to discover what you are doing job wise?

Definitely. I was a theater major and imagined my future was all about costume design. I think I thought I'd either be teaching full time or working full time at a theater by now. The idea of the internet and even email just barely registered on my radar at 19. I don't think I could have imagined how much time I would spend working on a computer producing work to be used on computers. I think my younger self would be disappointed that I'd left behind art, but very interested in the internet.

3. What piece of fashion advice would you give her?

Over-sized clothes should really be avoided. It is not a good look no matter what. And wear a lot more short skirts while you can. Otherwise, continue to enjoy all the trendy stuff through your 20s.

4. What do you think she is most going to want to know?

I think she will most want to know when she will find "the one." My 19 year-old self cared a lot about having a boyfriend and thought a lot about getting married. Somehow that was the answer to everything.

5. How would you answer her question?

I would tell her that you will find "the one", but in the mean time you should enjoy the ride a lot more. Once you get out of college, a lot more boys will notice you and you should enjoy their company and be confident that the right guy is out there and you'll know it when you finally get together with him.

6. What would probably be the best thing to tell her?

Be a lot more confident. A whole lot more. Don't let people treat you badly. Take graphic design classes. Learn how to manage money and do it.

7. What is something that you probably wouldn't tell her?

I wouldn't tell her about September 11th. I wouldn't want to scare her away from living in NYC and there would be no way to explain it that would make any sense.

8. What do you think will most surprise her about you?

The fact that I don't work in theater and do work with computers and web sites. I always knew I wanted to get married and I think I assumed having at least one kid would go along with that. I think I'd be mildly surprised to learn I live back in CT. At 19 I didn't think I'd ever come back.

9. What do you think will least surprise her?

That I am still friends with Karen and Heather. I don't think I could ever imagine my life not including them.

10. At this point in your life, would you like to run into "you" from the future?

Yes, I would love to! I could go for some advice just like this and I'd really like to have a peak how life looks at 59.

If you haven't been tagged by the Queen already, then consider yourself tagged now.

The boy who ate it all

2010-09-27T20:37:00.004-04:00

Zoe is not much of an eater. She really likes a few things, but even with those, she stops eating when she's full. It is a unique ability in our house. For example, the other morning we made a pilgrimage to Neil's Donut's up in Wallingford. Neil's donuts are probably the best donuts I have ever had. They are featured in several books including 500 Things to Eat Before it is Too Late and Road Food. Zoe happens to love chocolate frosted donuts with sprinkles and Neil's version is unequaled. It makes the Dunkin Donuts version look like amateur hour. We're all devouring our donuts and then halfway through hers, Zoe stops, wraps the remainder of her donut in a napkin and hands it to me saying she's full. I didn't know it was possible to stop eating a donut halfway through unless you were being forced to share! Imagine stopping eating something as delicious as a donut just because you were full? (OK, it was a huge donut.)

My nephew, Joseph, on the other hand is seeming bottomless pit. His ability to eat is equally as impressive as Zoe's ability not to eat. The other day my sister-in-law listed all the food he had eaten the day before and it is an impressive list:

2 eggs
2 pieces of bacon
1 piece of toast
2 glasses of milk
peanut butter and jelly sandwich
chips
Wheat Thins
fruit snacks
apple
donut
hamburger
french fries
milkshake
peas
Jell-o with whipped cream
piece of challah
banana
crackers
raisins
water
6 chicken dinosaurs
3 Oreos
more peas
half an apple
2 more glasses of milk

And no, he didn't throw up. And of course, he's skinny as a rail. I'm glad I don't have to buy the groceries for their house!

Deafness a.k.a. Selective Hearing

2010-09-20T18:08:00.005-04:00

As many of you know, my father suffers from pronounced hearing loss. He has a very hard time in restaurants, at parties, and sometimes it can even be a challenge to have a face-to-face conversation with him. If there is any background noise at all it next to impossible for him to hear well despite the state-of-the-art hearing aids he wears. Because he tries with the hearing aids, with lip reading and now with texting I cut him a lot of slack and have learned to speak loudly when I am with him. Frustrating as it maybe be at times.

Zoe, on the other hand, suffers from a completely different kind of deafness for which I have zero tolerance. When the TV is on I can literally stand right in front of her and speak to her and she will have no idea that I've said a word. For example:

[I walk in front of Zoe and stand between her and the TV]

Me: Zoe! You need to go brush your teeth.

Zoe: [blank stare]

Me (again): Zoe! Did you hear me? You need to go brush your teeth.

Zoe: [blank stare]

Me: Zoe!?! Zoe! Teeth! Now!

Zoe: [blank stare] OK. [pause as I walk away] Wait, what?

Me: #$@&*"^$!($ Brush your teeth!

It's a real comedy routine.

I yell at her for it, I punish her, I turn off the TV, but the problem seems only to get worse. I'd blame the TV, but it seems to happen at other times too. Like when she's outside playing and I want her to come in for dinner or when it is time to feed the dog or one of her other 2 second "chores."

Perhaps I need to take her to an audiologist? It's that or a therapist for me!

The One Where Zoe Disappears

2010-09-18T15:15:00.000-04:00

Since it is the last weekend of summer, I thought I would share one of my favorite summer memories ...

The Ankle Drama

2010-09-08T17:36:00.004-04:00

The other day Zoe claimed that her ankle hurt. Since she had come running off and there was no ankle twisting incident or any occurrence that could have produced a hurt ankle, the source of the ankle pain was a mystery, but apparently she was in a lot of pain.

It hurt so badly that:

she could not walk on it
she wrapped it in a bandanna (not sure how that helped)
she put ice on it
she was sure to alert Rob or me each time we walked by her lying on the couch
she would not let me touch it or even look at it

Both Rob and I were convinced she had a cramp, or what we like to call "fake sprained ankle" which is one of those debilitating ankle cramps that really hurt, but the only cure is to walk on it and move it around. Zoe would not believe our assessment or take our suggestion to walk around on it so we ignored her complaints. She went to bed convinced she had a broken ankle.

Morning came and there was no more mention of ankle pain, but later that next day I was putting some stuff away in her room and I found this note peeking out from beneath her bed.

(Translation: Sadly my [ankle] is still in pain. Hurts!!!! Lots! HELP!)

Tuesday Shoesday: Boots!

2010-09-07T13:46:00.001-04:00

If you're shopping for new shoes these days you'd be hard pressed to find something other than boots. I thought boots were big last year, but this year it appears that boots are back with a vengeance.

I know I already mentioned my distaste for the open-toed boots so I won't revisit. (Even though I do hope that is a short-lived trend!) But speaking of trends here are some I've found interesting.

I love this folded over look from Boutique 9. These boots look like they would look good with skirts or jeans and would get worn to death. They are only available in brown suede, but that's OK. After all, what fabric says autumn more than brown suede.

I think I am ready to click "add to cart" on this pair!

Speaking of suede...

as a kid I used to love my desert boots. There are a number of desert boot inspired styles out there this year. I like this pair (aptly named Dessertt) from Steve Madden, but I am on the fence because they are a bit too trendy. I like the nostalgia of them, but I wonder if I would want to wear them more than one season or two.

And Speaking of trends...

The over the knee boot is not a trend you'll ever find me in mainly because I am short and curvy and I think these are really meant for those of you blessed with height. However, if I were to get a pair, I would go totally over the top with a pair like these from Joie. Wowza. I can only think of one person I know who could seriously pull these off. She'd have to beat them off with sticks if she did.

Thus ends my shoe-gasm for the day. Hope you enjoyed.

P.S. I have recently recently re-discovered my life and shall be returning to regular blogging.

Zoe's Guide to Getting What You Want

2010-08-13T09:59:00.001-04:00

A couple of weekends ago my father (aka Papa) was babysitting for Zoe and when I picked her up they had just come from getting ice cream. From 2 different ice cream shops. When I asked her how she managed to get her Papa to go to 2 different ice cream shops she said, "I just asked and he said OK."

Papa is clearly a pushover.

The conversation went on to cover the ways in which Zoe gets what she wants from people. Here's her guide:

Papa -- we know, just ask and it shall be yours.

Ima (my mother) -- Say: "Ima, I love you. Can I please [insert request]? Please? " and it shall be yours.

Rob (aka Daddy) -- Say, "Please?"
Rob says, "No."
"Please?"
"No."
"Please?"
"No."
"Please?"
"No."
"Please?"
"No."
"Please?"
"Alright! Now be quiet already."

Me -- say "Mom, can I please [insert request]? I promise I will [insert mom-desired behavior such as come in when you call me the first time, feed the dog, listen, etc.]"

I say, "Oh, OK, but you'd better [insert desired behavior]."

I'd say she pretty much nailed all of us. Clever, manipulative little thing.

Have you seen this: BeFunky.com

2010-08-02T19:46:00.005-04:00

Check out this picture I found in my attic!

Doesn't it look just like someone I (and a lot of you) know?!

Ok, I probably didn't fool you, so I'll tell you how I got this photo to look this cool. But first answer these two questions:

Do you like playing with digital images? Do you have 3 hours to giveaway?

If you answered yes to both of those questions then you are going to love this site: BeFunky.com

BeFunky.com has all kinds of fun effects that are really easy to apply and adjust. In no time I created the above image and this one below:

Please don't say I didn't warn you about the 3 hours thing.

BTW, in the free version the images come with the watermark, but if you want to pay for a more expanded service you can get it without the watermark.

Seven Things I Have Been Doing Other Than Blogging...

2010-07-30T12:32:00.007-04:00

1. Working. It is so awfully unfair that my work has to be so intensely busy during one of the best summers I can remember. I don't ever remember being this overloaded at work. I often find that I stare out my window like a kid looking into a candy store looking at the beautiful sunny weather and wishing I was out in it. And if I could get out more, I'd certainly have more to blog about.

2. Pilates. I've tried yoga, but I it doesn't do it for me. Pilates does it. It is a tough work out but also very relaxing and stress-relieving. I have especially been enjoying Saturday morning Pilates on the beach.

3. Reading. Since I have completely given into my desire to read trashy fiction, I have been reading a ton. I am sure I will break my record of 50 books read in a year this year. Problem is most of the books I am reading are so trashy, I'm embarrassed to write about them here.

4. Twitter/Facebook. I tend to get out the things I wish to share immediately via Twitter or Facebook. Somethings probably would make a good blog post, but since time is an issue for me and for everyone these days, Twitter/Facebook is so efficient.

5. Swimming. Last summer it rained just about every day of June and July. When it finally stopped and got warm in August, our pool heater had some kind of infarction and let loose with some strange substances into the pool that took weeks to clean. By the time it was swim-able, it was just about time to close the pool for the year. This year we are trying to make up for lost time and are swimming as much as possible. Plus I am trying to have "open swim" days where I let all our friends and family know the gate to the backyard is open, come on over. It has been a lot of fun.

6. Baking. When I'm stressed out I find baking comforting. Baking takes concentration so it gets my mind off of the things that are stressing me out. Plus the results (cookies, cakes, granola bars) are usually very well-received so that is motivating.

7. Convertible Rides. Did I tell you I got a new car? It is my new baby, a 2007 Beetle convertible in harvest moon and I have been loving going for rides with the top down. The neighborhood kids are always asking me for rides too. It is the first time I've ever owned a car that I truly wanted and it so much fun. I like to think of it as an early 40th birthday present to myself or my mid-life crisis car.

I'm not expecting to be a much more productive blogger over the rest of the summer, but I am hoping that things will improve in September. Until then, I will do my best, please stick with me.

Tuesday Shoesday: It is too soon but...

2010-07-20T05:50:00.000-04:00

It really is too early to be thinking about Fall shoes or Fall anything since we've just barely reached the midpoint of summer, but you know I can't resist looking at shoes. It is especially difficult when I am inundated with emails featuring previews of Fall shoes. I'm not ready to commit to any purchases, but here's some shoes and boots I'm thinking about...

I bought a pair of menswear inspired black wingtip oxfords in the Spring which I love, but I think I love these more. My only issue with these and the wingtips I already own is figuring out the best way to wear them. I think they look cute with skinny jeans, but I am not really a skinny jeans girl. I might have to skip these, but they are really special looking.

Ah, the peep toe bootie. Can someone explain the appeal of this style to me? I don't get it. I don't think these will be making my shopping list this year.

These boots are another story. I love the classic riding style. I had a pair of these back in college and I wore them to death. I think I could get into wearing out another pair.

But seriously, it is way too early to think about these kinds of serious shoes when my feet are mostly in flip flops these days.

China Dina: A Restaurant Review

2010-07-15T14:01:00.004-04:00

The other day Zoe and her friend Samantha were playing restaurant and I was invited to dine at their establishment, China Dina.

I entered and was immediately seated at a low, but cozy table for two which had no chairs, but instead a pillows for seating. My place setting consisted of paper folded napkins and a piece of paper plate. Table decorations were kitschy cool including a lava lamp drawing and a bottle of some kind of purple "goo."

Each menu was hand-crafted (mine is pictured to the left) and featured an amazing array of dining options.

Food:
Wheat Thins
Carrots
Celery
Apples
Fish
Lobster

Drinks:
Water
Milk
Hawaiian Punch
Coke

Desserts:
Candy
Chocolate bars
Cookies

With all those choices, I didn't know what to order, but I ultimately decided on Wheat Thins and Lobster with Water followed by Candy for dessert.

I cannot remember being served a more interesting meal.

Yes, it has been HOT

2010-07-08T17:27:00.002-04:00

Record temperatures around ZoesMom's town this week, but as I promised all winter long while freezing to death and shoveling snow, I am absolutely not complaining. I am incredibly lucky to have A/C and a pool. When I haven't been in one, I've been in the other. Along with everyone else in my house, neighbors and visitors from near and far. Occasional trips out for ice cream have broken up the basic routine and except that work just keeps insisting on getting in the way, it has felt a lot like vacation lately.

So I say: summer, keep bringing it on!

Summer Camp

2010-06-30T16:30:00.005-04:00

I am so jealous of Zoe these days. She's on summer vacation from school and going to daycamp. She comes from camp home filthy, exhausted and happy each day. Her big decision after the camp day is if she should play with the neighborhood kids or go for a swim. That is followed by dinner and then sleeping like a stone.

I absolutely adored summer camp when I was her age. I loved the swimming, the sports, the arts and crafts, the songs...everything. Even better was when I was old enough for sleepaway camp. The other day Zoe and I were discussing sleepaway camp and she told me she thought it would be hard to go. I told her she didn't have to go until she was ready or ever. To which she responded,
"I mean it will be hard for you. But I really should go."

She's probably right.

Toy Story 3

2010-06-21T20:34:00.004-04:00

Over the weekend we went to see Toy Story 3. I'm not usually the biggest fan of kids' movies, but I have to admit I was excited for this one. I can still remember the night I went to see the original Toy Story movie and I was completely blown away by the graphics. I missed Toy Story 2 in the theaters -- probably because I didn't yet have have a Zoe in my life. However, once I did have a Zoe in my life, it wasn't long before we watched it on DVD and I was not disappointed.

Since it has been about 11 years since a new Toy Story movie has come out this movie opening was quite an event. I think I've been looking forward to it for about 6 months and I know Zoe and my niece and nephew have been looking forward to it at least that long. So, we decided to make a small party out of it and we bought advanced tickets for a Saturday showing of the 3-D version on opening weekend (this past weekend). Despite the fact that Saturday was a gorgeous, sunny day we all went into the theater loaded down with candy and other snacks and settled into our seats in the dark and cold theater. 3 kids in front and 4 adults sitting behind them.

From the moment the movie started the only movement from the row in front was hands reaching back to request more candy. The movie was so good that it made me cry as well as laugh -- a lot. It was really delightful and truly impressive in terms of animation. I don't know how those people at Pixar do it, but based on all the credits it sure takes a lot them to achieve a movie like this. And I'm guessing it took the full 11 years as well. But it was all worth it. I think this movie is as much a winner for kids as it is for adults. I like this quote from the NY Times review:

“Toy Story 3” is as sweet, as touching, as humane a movie as you are likely to see this summer, and yet it is all about doodads stamped and molded out of plastic and polyester. Therein lies its genius, and its uncanny authenticity.

My only complaint -- someone please tell me the point of 3-D. It really didn't add much in this case and those darn glasses give me a headache. My advice -- go see the non-3-D version, but go see it.

The True Confessions Meme

2010-06-17T19:48:00.003-04:00

A new one from the Queen! I am so excited! (Queen's original post here.)

The Rules:
Think of ten books it seems you should have read by now but never have. Post them. Feel free to say anything you want about why you haven't read them. Tag others when you're done.

The following Shakespeare plays: Richard II, Richard III, Timon of Athens
I lump them all into one to leave more room for other confessions. Having studies theater in college and graduate school you might imagine I read a lot of Shakespeare, and it is true, I did. But these three I never read and I think after all that school I just can't bring myself to read another one. Ever.
A Tale of Two Cities. I was forced to read Great Expectations in 10th grade. Swore off Dickens at that point and cannot convince my adult brain to give it another go no matter how much I'd like to.
War and Peace. It is a title someone literary should read, right? But in my mind it has so many strikes against it, not the least of which is the fact that it is Russian.
Anna Karenina. See above.
Dr. Jeckyll and Mr. Hyde. At this point given how much the story has been retold in various ways, I don't see how I wouldn't be disappointed.
The Time Machine (or anything else by H.G. Wells) I have no good or bad reason. I just don't want to.
The Poisonwood Bible. Too many people have told me how much I will like it.
Three Cups of Tea. I want to care, I do. But, in fact, it seems I don't.
Mrs. Dalloway. I don't know. I probably would like it.
In Cold Blood. Now that I've seen the great movie version I know I'll never read it.

I almost put Ulysses on this list, but then decided not to because I've never felt I should read that one.

I'd tag, but Emily probably already has. If she didn't, consider yourself tagged.

Tuesday Shoesday: Sneakers

2010-06-15T20:02:00.005-04:00

I've worn out my favorite pair of casual sneakers. You know the kind you wear with shorts or to the supermarket, not the kind for the gym. (If you're particular about those kinds of things, which, clearly, I am.) So, I went to my favorite shoe site, Zappos, to browse for some new ones.

At first I was considering something new for me, but with a retro vibe so I was looking at these:

Onitsuka Tiger by Asics

Then I thought maybe something a little more modern, something a little different would be good so I was looking at these:

PUMA Sky Lite Ballerina

But I wasn't sure I was crazy about those. Plus I haven't worn PUMA sneakers since I was about Zoe's age so I wasn't sure how they fit and I didn't want to go through the hassle of returning. I could go shopping and trying on, but sometimes I really do enjoy having new shoes delivered to my front door.

And then I hit on it. Of course, these would be the ones. They're classics. You can't go wrong with a classic. Plus they are just a little over-the-top preppy which I like. This is probably the 15th pair of my life. They arrived today and they are just as great as I remember them being. They are:

Tretorn Nylite Canvas

And in case you're interested here's some facts about Tretorn and these shoes:

In 1891 Tretorn was founded by Henry Dunker in Helsingborg, Sweden
The Tretorn Nylite tennis shoes, born in 1967, were regarded as the first luxury sports shoe
The Tretorn brand was acquired by Puma in 2001

Am I a shoe geek, or what?

List of things for High School

2010-06-09T09:32:00.000-04:00

Zoe has been into making lists lately. Lists of all kinds -- what she wants to be for Halloween, her friends, her favorite foods, etc. The most recent list I found had to do with when she gets into high school. Very interesting.

Here is a scan of the actual list:

And in case you can't read it, here's what is says:

Things I might get:
Jeans with howls [holes], tattoo
(henna) dyed hair four
pieces, dark Jeans catar [guitar] picks
elecktrick blue vw beatle
computer

Classes I might take:
Art cooking sewing club

To prom I might wear:
Long earings, small clutch
bag, ankle strap high
heels, gold anklet
long gown lose [loose] hair

I don't think this needs any further comment.

Tuesday Shoesday: Wedge Espadrilles

2010-06-08T21:15:00.008-04:00

Earlier this spring I bought this pair of espadrille wedges from Banana Republic. I've tried to wear them 3 times now and 3 times they've been ridiculous. They just wont' stay on my feet. I know I bought the right size because the next smaller pair were really too tight. I tried heel grips, insoles and nothing works. After walking around like Frankenstein in them last night, I've decided I have to give them up. (Becky -- you have first shot at them, if you're interested.)

So, now I have to find something to replace them because I really wanted a wedge type espadrille sandal for the summer. Here are some options I'm considering:

Eric Michael -- Paloma

They look like good basics.

Kate Spade -- Candice

Maybe I could afford them if I saved.

Lifestride -- Sunny

These look cute and comfortable.

Decisions...

Have you seen this: Custom Food

2010-06-03T08:39:00.000-04:00

And I thought custom jeans were cool (no, I still haven't ordered a pair), check out this site: http://www.createmychocolate.com/ where you can literally create your chocolate bar. You choose the type of chocolate, dark, milk, white or a combination of milk and white then you choose what to put in and on your chocolate. There is fruit, spices, nuts, candy, and grains (which includes fun stuff like cereal, pretzels and bacon -- yes, bacon!). You can choose up to 5 toppings, mix-ins, etc.

It is a little expensive for chocolate. I put together a creation for fun of strawberries, caramel and pretzels with milk chocolate and with the cost of delivery it comes to about $15. Probably a little much to indulge for yourself, however, they sell gift certificates and I think that would be a pretty cool gift to give.

Another site doing something similar is You Bar: http://www.youbars.com/custombars where you can create custom protein/energy bars. The best part of this site is that it gives nutritional information as you go along so if you're trying to stay within certain limits on carbs or sugar or fat, it is really easy. Plus you get to name your bar and they create a customized wrapper with your name on it for each bar. That's fun! Lately I've been into making my own granola bars, but when I get tired of that, I may just have to give this a try.

You Bar also has sites for Trail Mix, Shakes, Cereal, and Cookies.

Can you tell I'm hungry right now?

Easy Summer Make-up

2010-06-02T09:19:00.005-04:00

Those of you who know me, know I am somewhat obsessed with make-up. I wear make-up every day, but most days I prefer a fairly natural look. Each season I try to come up with a go-to look for everyday that is just a little different. I am really pleased with what I've started wearing for summer so I want to share because I think anyone can do it and it is so easy. I admit that I stole a lot of this from Bobbi Brown's website, but my version is even easier.

OK, so here it is, ZoesMom's easy summer make-up:

Step 1: Use a light powder foundation or tinted moisturizer all over your face. I prefer products with an SPF of 15 of higher. I'm using Clinique's Almost Powder. (I also use under eye concealer for my dark circles, but if you don't need it, don't bother.)

Step 2: Apply matte eyeshadow in very light pink, light peach, or off-white from your eyebrow to your lashes -- in other words all over. One light coat. Make sure the shadow is matte and not shimmer. I'm using Cover Girl French Vanilla (matte) or Sephora's Eye Shadow in Porcelain.

Step 3: Apply 2 coats of dark mascara to your lashes. I'm using Tarte's Lights, Camera, Lashes or Maybelline Great Lash.

Step 4: If you have thick eyebrows like I do, brush your eyebrows up. You can also use eyebrow gel if you have it, but it's not necessary.

Step: 5: Use a somewhat bright pink to coral blush on the apples of your cheeks. Doesn't matter if it's powder or cream just as long as it is a little bright. I'm using Tarte's Cheek Stain. (This blush is a little expensive, but it lasts forever and it's organic.)

Step 6: Apply a sheer lipstick in a somewhat bright pink to coral shade. You can also use lip gloss in the same shades. I have about 10 lipsticks/glosses that fit this bill, but I just bought Korres' Mango Butter Lipstick in Peach and I'm loving it. It is organic and also has SPF 10 which is nice for summer.

And that's it, you're ready to walk out the door.