Recent Blog Posts: Raising Bakersfield

You might be a redneck...

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 07:32:54 PST

We drove home yesterday from a week long vacation at Morro Bay, and noticed the Christmas decorations going up around town. Straight to the point, inflatable Christmas decorations are LAME! Even more so if that's the only decoration you've got. Nothing says "I've got no time for Christmas" more than plugging one of those babies in.

What happened to the creativity? When I was a kid (maybe growing up someplace else is my problem), there were home displays that had cars lining up around the block to drive by and see! People built winter wonderlands in their front yards! They had more lights than I could count, they sold hot chocolate and cider on the sidewalk, they had music playing, and they actually wanted their decorating to be a gift to the neighborhood and a chance to interact!

Not so here and now.

It's all about eliminating effort, and it started with the "icecicle lights," prestrung dangling icecicles that were cool the first year they came out. Now there on every house. With these silly inflatables, you can bet that a thousand people in town have the exact same effortless display in their yards. Creativity is dead.

Part of the Christmas experience is getting ready for it. If it takes you a week to complete your outdoor Christmas decorating, that's a week of thinking about the season and really getting pumped for what it means to you. So when I drive by your inflatable Santa on a motorcycle, I can prety much tell what it means to you without much thought.

PLEASE, if you have not yet put an inflatable decoration in your yard, DON'T. And if you have, at least mow your lawn and throw some lights on a bush or something.

Coming soon for your year-round front yard display: The inflatable rusted El Camino on cinder blocks. Inflatable empty beer cans and inflatable overgrown grass sold seperately.

The Course of Family

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 20:42:56 PST

Family pictures seemed the right thing to do considering our family is complete. We went out to Hart Park during the second weekend of November to do just that. There had been some blustery and wet weather the weekend prior; the grass was vibrantly green and it was poetically littered with fall leaves. It was the perfect backdrop for what I had envisioned as the perfect family photo.

When I got the chance to view the pictures, I cried. I've looked at them several times since and have wept a few more times as well. I couldn't quite understand why I was shedding tears until recently when I viewed the pictures in a different order than I had before.

The family photo first. Everyone looked so happy and so good next to one another. Then a shot of the boys. They are just so darn cute. How did we make such handsome little men? Then a picture of just the parents. Yes, I can see bits and pieces of how we made such handsome little men. Is it vain to say? Oh, I don't care...they're all ours and they're fabulous. Finally, the candid picture of the family. No poses, no frozen smiles, just a family walking together and holding hands while walking in a fall landscape and loving one another. The tears came back.

I was absolutely moved by the course of our little family. From the time when Charles and I were dating until the present, a family of four. Seeing that candid family picture reminded me of a picture of my husband and I so many years ago when we were dating. We were two young kids in love and without a breathable inch between ourselves as we posed for the picture. I mentally compared it to the family picture now with children in between us, linking the two of us together. The difference between the two pictures portrayed a process of evolution that made me feel waves of pride I had not considered before.

How does someone go from a love-struck young adult to a child-awing middle aged adult in what seems like a blink of an eye? Just time, I suppose. Or is it more? Might one consider it faith? Faith that you've found someone you will commit to for the rest of your life and faith that you can bring other people into this world through that commitment.

Sure, many people can see love and family as an accident. But I challenge you to see it as a matter of determined course...a matter of faith. Loving has never been easy but when we choose to love through thick or thin, when we see it as an un-chartered course similar to a merchant vessel on a voyage for the ultimate treasure, we see the joy in the journey. Sometimes the ride is boring, sometimes the ride makes us sick, sometimes we fear we won't survive the storm, sometimes we want to throw out extra baggage to conserve fuel and food before we hit the shore, and sometimes the ride is so sublime that we cannot deny God is amongst us.

When I go back in forth in my mind between the picture of Charles and me dating, and the picture of just the two of us at the family photo shoot, there are two differences I notice. One, there is much more trunk space in my post-baby baking body frame than the original model, and two, there's a subtlety in my eyes now that hasn't been there before. And yes, I can convince myself the latter is worth the expense (or expanse) of the former.

The subtlety now is a stark difference from that calf in the gate, wide-eyed expression in my eyes when I was younger; when I wanted to charge at life and take everything I thought was due me. Now, my eyes are saying: I'm not racing toward it, I'm living through it...I'm going to finish this journey, it' s a matter of course.

So, take a picture and prove you are living it and loving it. And wear a pair of flattering jeans. For your trunk of course!

Portraits by Melissa Bench at www.melissabenchphotography.com (She was fabulous! )

Lunch time rules at school

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:02:14 PST

Do your children have lunch time rules at school - they have to sit quietly at their table and eat, then be excused by the teacher or principal before they can go outside to play? Our school doesn't, grant it our school is only 19 pupils, but still there should be some rules. The kids eat if they want and then just get up and play. Sometimes I don't think Cole eats his lunch, he swallows it whole and he plays around. Since school started we have had problems with him playing at the table, for any meal, laughing, dancing, making body noises. And when we try to discipline him for it he just laughs at us. I'm not sure if it's the school attitudes or a rebellious stage because I'm gone at work more now and he's feeling left out of things. He very seldom goes to town with me anymore, I try to do everything while he is in school - which is darn near impossible on an easy shopping day, much less on a really full day. Am I worrying over nothing?

Holiday Recipes

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 17:02:39 PST

What is your favorite Holiday food... you know, that incredibly delicious dish your grandma used to make, or your favorite home made dessert, or whatever. Bonus points if you share the recipe!

I like it all, but I look forward to my aunt Vicki's super awesome banana bread every Christmas. She makes individual loafs for everyone in the family.

She said it

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 11:56:06 PST

I was driving my daughter home from preschool today and she started talking about how she misses her sister we are adopting from China. She is concerned that she doesn't have a family and might get hurt. I explained that God is protecting her just like he protects us.

"There are two Gods, Dad? Here AND China"

"No, Holly. Just one, but he protects the whole world?"

"Even Lost Vegas?"

I did pause momentarily, but laughed and said "Yes, even Las Vegas."

Thanksgiving Camping

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:23:06 PST

Do you have Thanksgiving traditions outside what might be considered "normal?" My family and I head to the campground at Morro Bay for the entire week of Thanksgiving, joining in on a family reunion in an annual event that has been going on for nearly 40 years. People come from all over California and even Hawaii to get together as family and pretty much take over the state campground at Morro Bay. People ask what we do for Thanksgiving dinner. We do the same thing thing you do! We do the full Thanksgiving spread from the Turkey to the Pumpkin pie, and everything in between, right there in the campground for 30+ people.

I married into this event and the first year, I thought it was odd. Now I wouldn't miss it for the world. Dozens of cousins running around and having the time of their lives, while we "adults" just kick it and relax. Best time of the year!

Crickets

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 21:02:13 PST

and there goes a tumbleweed through RB.C

it's a ghost town in here!

Christmas Stories

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:37:18 PST

I'm writing a new story for Christmas, and I am wondering what your favorite Christmas stories are and why. One of my favorites (next to the one I am writing now!) is The Tale of the Three Trees. It's much more than a Christmas story, but one I have often heard read at Christmas time, and one that hits with a deep special message.

What are your favorites that you will share with your kids?

To be Jewish in Bakersfield

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:38:47 PST

I will never get used to Bakersfield.

I have an interfaith family, so every year I go to Sears and get a family portrait shot and then use that picture for both Chanukah and Christmas photocards. I have done this every year for nearly a decade.

This is my first holiday season in Bakersfield. I took the kids to the Sears at Valley Plaza Mall last weekend and posed for pictures. Then when I went to order my cards, they told me they didn't sell Chanukah cards. Sure you do, I insisted. I have been buying them from Sears for years. Maybe at other stores, the saleswoman told me, but not at this location. We don't have them here.

Now, I could see if they had to physically stock the things. I'll grant that the Jewish community here is pretty small. But all of this stuff is stored digitally. You just put the photo on a stock background and send the order offsite to be printed. You mean to tell me the Sears in Bakersfield can't get online and choose a Chanukah card out of its OWN offerings at other locations? Gimme a break.

So I ordered some Christmas cards and then called WalMart and asked if they carry Chanukah photocard backgrounds. Nope, the woman on the phone tells me, but you can custom design one if you want. "We can put a cross on it for you...or that thing...what do you call it? The thing with the candles?"

"A menorah," I said, rolling my eyes.

And I'm silently thinking, if I'm going to be reduced to designing some amateurish looking thing on a PC, I could do that at home. What do I need you for?

I'm not very artsy or computer savvy so I was really not looking forward to having to make cards myself at home, but I guess I'm going to have to suck it up and learn how. Either that or drive to Los Angeles or some other REAL city, which would just be a ridiculous waste of time and gas money for something so basic.

a large hug and thank you's on-a-stick to all

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 19:21:13 PST

from all of us at mr.oscat, thank you for your support this year. it's been a real live hootenanny and it couldn't have happened without your support. here's hoping that next year is as fun and rewarding as this one has been. see you in March........... your pals, the mr.oscat band.....

Derek Oliver Burger has arrived!

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 08:19:25 PST

Welcome to motherhood! It's been 10 days since our little bundle was born and I am only just now finding a few free moments to post to the blog!

Here are the stats: Derek Oliver Burger was born at 5:04 a.m. Nov. 4 (four minutes after polls opened on the east coast on election day). It certainly was a day of new hope! He came 17 days before his due date, weighed 6 lbs 12 oz and was 18.5 inches long. Labor lasted just seven hours. Not even time to even think about an epidural!

He is the sweetest, cutest, most perfect baby ever. (I know, every mother says that about her baby!)

Complications so far:

Short frenium made sucking difficult. Pediatrician clipped under his tongue and multiple visits with lactation consultants has helped us train him to breast feed, but it still takes four hands to help him latch correctly.

Less than adequate fluids due to the breast feeding issue elevated his bilirubin level and created a very yellow few days of jaundice. In-home phototherapy and two days of formula from the bottle brought the level back down. Of course, the bottle set us back on breastfeeding again, but we are overcoming it.

We made quite the mess with black ink when trying to do his handprints and footprints for the baby book. No advice on making this easier.

Successes so far:

Baby's first manicure included nail clipping and light filing. It's hard to clip those tiny nails, but my mom's suggestion of using the nail file worked very well.

His umbilical stump already fell off two days ago! He likes to be early for everything, it seems. Except mealtime. We usually have to wake him up to eat, and often he falls asleep at the bar. But boobs make such nice pillows!

My mom had the great idea of doing a little "autumn" photo shoot for the birth announcements. We took about 100 photos of Derek in a basket surrounded with leaves. Priceless!

I will write more as I have the time. I just wanted to get something up on this blog!

So Thankful!

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 23:58:51 PST

I am so thankful for everything in my life. As the holidays get closer, my anxiety is rising. It is my son's first Christmas and even though he will only be four months old, I feel like I need to make this a great day for him. Everyone keeps telling me not to worry about it, after all, he won't even remember. As his mother I feel like there is some sort of instict hardwired into me to make his life the best that I can, and I have fallen victim to the media hype. I want to go out and buy him everything a little baby could possibly want, and that is just ridiculous! So today I was going over our Christmas budget and realizing how tight everything is going to be. My husband and I just bought our first home in August and he started a new job just one week before that. As a wave of sadness came over me, I suddenly knew that I had to rethink how I want my son to view life. I still want him to have nice things, but I want him to know how lucky he is and how thankful he should be. Without completly sheltering him or showing him too much too soon, I have to figure out how to raise my precious baby boy to love every minute of life and always help others when he can. I want him to work hard for things and treat everyone with respect and equality, and I know that my husband and I have to teach by example, I just pray my son listens as he grows. A good way to start is by reminding myself how lucky I am to have a roof over my head, good food in my tummy, and most important, a wonderful, loving family in my life everyday! I am so thankful for my wonderful life!

SAHD and BC

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 07:36:52 PST

Thought I would give an update to my online college experience at BC. As a SAHD wanting to go back to school, I determined over the summer that online would be a good thing to check out, and I enrolled at BC for this fall term. I signed up for one class to start, so I could get an idea for how much time and effort it would take, and to just get my feet wet before diving back into the college pool.

My eyes were definitely opened.

My US history class is completely self directed, with absolutely no education coming from the professor. If not for my month long computer troubles, I would have been done with the class except for the midterm and final, several weeks before the midterm was even offered. I'm somewhat pleased with the ease of the class, but somewhat more displeased with the academics of it. Granted, it is the entry level history class, but I was hoping for a little more interaction from the professor. On my midterm, I answered all 36 multiple choice questions correctly, with documentation, but got 170 out of 180 points. I emailed the professor who would not tell me which ones he thought I got wrong. If college is really just a guessing game, what is the point?? So I have to teach myself.

I'm taking three courses online next term. Should be able to handle it with my SAHD duties if they are as silly as this one.

my eyes were also opened to how bad the high school system is. Granted, BC is not the Harvards, Stanfords or any other -rds, but the kids in these online discussions with me were really an embarrassment to the local high school educational product, in both history and writing. Very sad.

So that's my first term review of my adventure back into college. I'm still excited, but a little disappointed.

Creativity in Community

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:12:20 PST

This week in parenting: balance. Wait, isn't that every week? :) I am learning & growing to look towards my daughers needs first & foremost. She needs activity, structure, balance. And so do I!

Anyways- on to the real point of my post... as I live life my passion for creativity & community grows (and creatvity IN community). I don't know about you, but I really feel like we were meant to live life together. In this age & time with convenience and technology, this has grown increasingly difficult. With my growth of passion for creativity and community comes my love for coffee. And out of the combination of these things came for Mile 124 "a catalyst for expression & reflection pointing to God." We have another event coming up on Friday. I am growing increasingly excited about it! The theme for the event is photography. The activities are photography-themed and we have featured photographers. Check it out HERE. This is going to be a great night; everyone is welcome!!

Now time to give my daughter some love!! Hope to see you Friday! :)

Grieving again...this time a friend near my age.

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 10:25:55 PST

I spent yesterday enjoying a kid-free 7 hours with a good friend happily scrapping away and trying to get caught up on 4+ years of pictures that needed to be added to the family scrapbook. I purposefully left my phone in the car...to avoid interruptions from the kids (or hubby who was on daddy-duty). As I returned home yesterday evening at about 5, I found that my cell had numerous missed calls, as well as a few at home from a close circle of friends from preschool.

I thought, well, something MUST be up...everyone of my friends knows that I was going to be out of touch and devoting time to scrapping today. So, I called the last caller on the phone - since her call sounded most urgent. She called me back to let me know that a good friend, who was 39 years old and had a son the age of my oldest, had passed away suddenly Tuesday morning. At first, I had to ask her to repeat it....surely I had misunderstood her. Not the person I respected as a mother, businesswoman, friend and most impressive organizer I have ever met. Sure enough, I had heard right, and the friend I met as I began preschool with my oldest son, who is the same age as her youngest son - had passed away.

Kelly was a wonderful person, always had a pleasant smile and loved to laugh. She lived for her family and friends....always giving of herself tirelessly. Kelly served as president for the prescool for 3 years. She was in charge of fundraising, and many other committees that kept the school going. She was great at everything she did, it seemed. She was the ideal mom that always seemed to have it all together - but, she was the first to admit that she was battling with the same things we all were.

I suppose that I accept the fact that older people live and pass away a little easier. I have finally been able to talk about my grandmother's death without crying...that's been almost a year now. But, there is something that is so much more difficult to understand and accept when someone within a few years of your age dies suddenly - especially since our kids are near the same age. It's times like this you just wonder why someone so wonderful had to go so soon? It also makes you realize that life is precious and we never know when or how we will meet our maker.

In memory of Kelly Haines.

cigarette question

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:07:04 PST

At the risk of butting in (pun intended)...

The other day my 6-year-old daughter casually mentioned that a schoolmate, also in first grade, smokes cigarettes. We were outside taking a walk at the time and I stopped in my tracks. I said, "Are you sure?"

My daughter said yes.

I asked her if her friend's mother knew this. No, my daughter said. The girl only does it when her mom's not home.

My first thought was it just flat out wasn't true. Maybe my daughter misunderstood, or the girl was lying in the course of playground banter meant to make her appear cool and sophisticated.

Then again, maybe the girl was telling my daughter the truth.

If so, as unscrupulous as some retailers are, I am certain nobody would knowingly sell cigarettes to a first-grader. Probably one or both of the girl's parents smoke, and the little girl is discreetly stealing their cigarettes when they're not looking.

Personally, if anyone knew this about my child, I would hope and pray they would alert a teacher who could then relay the information to me so I could put a stop to it.

But if the girl's parents are smokers, they might resent the interference, especially when I don't even know if it's true or not. I don't know the girl or her family.

What do you think? What should I do?

for the last time this year......

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 08:24:20 PST

momEconnect.com presents "mr.oscat", playing at Borders Books (stockdale hwy) on Sunday November 16th at 4pm. This will be the last time we play for the next three months. We have started recording the second mr.oscat c.d. and it's time to focus on getting it done (no easy task). So, we hope to see you and your family at borders....and... lets have some fun.... and, don't forget your kazoos.....

the vote

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 10:07:30 PST

I was watching the Kern county vote in comparison to the statewide polls. It confirms that if I want to raise a family in CA (I question it often these days), then this is the place we want to be based on my personal values, because I know a large number of my neighbors agree. But can someone in the farming business explain why most of the valley voted yes on 2? I didn't vote yes, but I guess I can't condemn it, because maybe there is something I really don't get about the impact of either vote. DID the farmers vote yes, or was that everyone NOT on the farm who got it passed? I just don't see these farms, who have been doing it the same way for generations deciding they need to overhaul their farm, their budget, and their whole system. But like I said, maybe I am missing something.

Baby could be here in a week or two!

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:36:45 PST

James and I went to our now weekly appointment with the OB this morning and learned that not only am I 1 cm dilated, my cervix is also 90 percent effaced. Which means I'm ripe to pop this boy out. But the doctor really surprised me when she said "The baby could be here in a week or two."

A week or two? My due date isn't until the 21st! I am supposed to work until the 14th! There's still so much to do!

Positive outcomes of an early arrival:

1) I can breath again! (The baby is really taking up a lot of space and I literally have to stand to eat if I want to breath at the same time.)

2) Our baby might be born on the same day as his cousin, who is also due in a week or two, give or take. (James' sister Julie is having a baby girl!)

3) Better chance of me being able to drink a beer while watching football on Thanksgiving. (I'll pump first, of course, so baby gets alcohol-free milk and Mommy can drink.)

4) We get to meet our son sooner!

Negative outcomes of an early arrival:

1) We aren't ready yet. But, then again, who ever is?

I'm actually quite excited to squeeze out Baby Boy. People are asking me, am I scared about anything? The truth is, not at all. Even though I've heard the horror stories -- and even watched a few on A Baby Story on TLC -- I'm not afraid of labor at all. It looks like fun to me! And my mom is staying with us, so I'm not scared about not knowing what to do. I mean, how hard is it to hold, feed, change and play with a baby? Bring it on, sonny boy!

For anyone who wants to follow along with the birth, I'll be Twittering via my cell phone from the hospital -- and passing off the phone to James when I can't text due to the whole pushing thing. Go to Twitter.com and search for the username "jenbaldwin."

A picturesque day

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 12:58:48 PST

Driving with my husband looking up into the sky today, I couldn’t help reminiscing. The bright blue sky was strewn with thick white fluffy clouds. If my elementary school memory serves me, the cloud formations are called cumulonimbus clouds. The fluffy clouds conjured up thoughts of the day I envisioned my first child would be born.

For years I pictured giving birth to a child on a day such as today. A beautiful, picturesque, sunny, cool, bright blue sky, fluffy clouded type day. In fact, if I planned my pregnancy, I wanted a March baby. March seems to be filled with those fluffy clouded days. March isn’t over inundated with other family events and obligations. However, God had a bigger plan for us. He gave me a December baby. In the end, I gave birth via c-section on a cold, dark winter day. And yet, it was the brightest, sunniest, most beautiful day of my life. Turns out I didn’t need those big fluffy clouds after all.

Dancing in the Rain...

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 01:53:44 PDT

My four year old was a little frustrated when she came into my room this morning...she had gotten up earlier to watch cartoons and I had lingered in bed, letting her Dad field the early bird while I caught a few more zzz's. Upon waking up she had told me she wanted to go outside and play in the rain, but I had put her off, because I was still tired. Anyway, after awhile, tired of waiting on me to get up on my own, she finally walked into my room and said, "Mom, I wanted to play in the rain and now it's not raining anymore and that's why I'm mad!" Props to her for articulating her feelings with words. "Okay," I said, sympathetic to her simple desire. "How about if you put on your rainboots and go jump in the puddles?" This alternative solution apeased her, so I rolled out of bed, threw on some clothes and went outside with her and my camera. At one point, she employed the garden hose with the nozzle attached, creating her own rain. It was such a warm day, perfect for dancing in the rain. What a lovely welcome to a reluctant Fall...

Everyday Princess

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 15:14:09 PDT

Being a diligent mom that I try to be, I searched local stores and online retailers for the cutest Halloween costume possible. After an exhaustive search, it was decided what my sweet daughter will be for her 2nd Halloween. Being that my husband is Texan and a fan of he Dallas Cowboy’s final decision on her costume wasn’t a hard one.

She was destined to be a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader.

After a thorough search, I purchased her costume at an online retailer. It was shipped with plenty of time. She wore the clothing portion of the costume around the house a couple days. She however fussed over wearing the wearing the hat and the boots. And don’t forget the pom poms. She thought the pom poms were fun at first. She antagonized the dog. But the pom pom enthusiasm quickly faded. I did manage to drag her to one Halloween party with her costume in place. Sans hat and pom poms.

The next Halloween party we went to she refused the hat, boots and pom poms entirely. However, she did feel inclined to wear her fairy wings with her Cheerleader outfit. Pink fairy wings with a cheerleading blue and white outfit? Ok, whatever, let’s go kid! She kept the outfit on for about an hour…. Then off it came, wings and all.

I like most parents feel that since she was my daughter, she had to be the cutest. I the idea came to make her a princess. She loves her fairy wings, what a perfect fit. She just needed a tutu. With my ambition and all, off to the fabric store I went. Purchasing shades of pink tulle and ribbon to make the sweetest and fluffiest tutu possible. It took me a couple hours sitting on the couch one night watching TV with my husband to make her precious tutu. The next morning I was excited for my daughter to put on her princess tutu. To my dismay, she hates it. She screams when I try to put it on her. She is refusing to wear her tutu.

So this Halloween, I will have a princess. But she won’t be dressed up. She will be in her “regular” princess clothes. This consists of a pink cotton shirt adorned with ribbons and jeans embellished with embroidered flowers. She is my princess no matter what. With or without wings. With or without tutu.

The things mothers say!

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:33:51 PDT

I was telling my mom about my friend offering to keep Tyler all day on Tuesdays when I work at the school, then keep Cole after school so I could go to town and do my shopping, she told me I couldn't do my shopping in half a day and that having the kids together for a whole day isn't a good idea b/c they would get tired of each other. When I do playdates that only leaves half a day to do my shopping, so what's the difference? One I won't have kids with me and can move faster, dont' have to stop for lunch, can make bathroom trips lost faster without having to haul the kids out of the shopping cart or into the largest stall so we all fit (I will not leave the boys outside the stall door, that freaks me out). I swear, sometimes my mother can be so darn negative it's irritating. I need to keep a journal so I won't tell her things, which makes her mad when I don't tell her things. Having your parents live 1/3 of a mile away isn't always a good thing!!! Deep breath, again and again. Let it all flow out. Now down to business - fold laundry and I still have the 4H budget to do, it was due on the 17th of October - only a little late for me!!

PNO @ American Kids is Great for Parents!

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:12:17 PDT

American Kids Sports Center has hosted Parents Night Out (PNO) for Bakersfield families for over 10 years. PNO has a number of perks for both the parents and the kids: kids get to enjoy 5 hours of sports fun with activities ranging from gymnastics, cheerleading, swimming (in our indoor heated pool), martial arts, dance, arts & crafts, movie, and a lot of games and other fun activites; while Parents get to drop their kids off in a fun & safe environment while they can actually go out with their friends on a Fri or Sat Night, without the children! Last, but not least, PNO is cheap! For only $20 for the 1st child and $13 for every additional child it is cheaper for you and more fun for the kids than hiring a babysitter. So come let your kids try a new and more fun style of babysitting and give yourself a night!

Phone: NW 589-2100 SW 833-3986

Email: Info@AmericanKidsSports.com

www.AmericanKidsSports.com

Parent Night Out: Halloween Style!!!

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:24:59 PDT

American Kids Sports is hosting a Parent Night Out!

LOCATION: American Kids SW 4401 Ride St. (behind 24hr Fitness on White Ln. & Gosford)

PHONE: AKSC SW 833-3986 & AKSC NW 589-2100

E-mail: INFO@AmericanKidsSports.com

WWW.AmericanKidsSports.com

Fri October 31st (Halloween) & Sat November 1st

Time: 6:00-11:00

Price: 1st child $20 - $13 for additional kids

This is a great opportunity for Parents to provide their Children with a Halloween like no other! Parents can go and enjoy a night out without the kids or any worries. American Kids Sports SW is the place for a fun and safe environment this Halloween! Kids will enjoy:

-Costume Contest

-Haunted Maze

-Spooky and Fun Game Booths with Prizes

-Halloween Games

-Halloween Movie & Snacks

HALLOWEEN TREATS

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 16:35:02 PDT

As Halloween nears, I am curios as to which most prefer. Do you door- to -door trick - or - treat, organized function on Halloween, or restrict to only family and friends? As I get older I don't see as many kids doing the door to door thing like when I was a kid.

Are playdates that important???

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 15:45:46 PDT

I'm debating the once a week playdate thing. Now that Cole is in school, he gets home about 3pm, my trips to town have become very rushed (which would explain why I forget things even when they are on my list!) and exhausting. Tyler and I do a MOMS Club playdate on Wednesdays in Porterville, though we don't go every week, I try for at least 2 a month if possible. But that takes an hour to drive to P'ville, 2 hours for the playdate (10-12), then hurry through the stores to get my groceries, etc., and rush up the mountain to try and make it home before Cole gets here. I have to leave P'ville by 2pm to beat him home, so that gives me 2 hours to shop and feed Tyler. It's always rush rush rush and I'm just not sure it's worth it after all. My neighbor and I switch Tuesday to be the class aide for the K-1 group at school and she mentioned keeping Tyler all day on Tuesdays if I wanted to go to town after I was done at the school (we only work from 9-12), then Cole would get off the bus at her house too with her son. She has a 4 and 2 y/o still at home, so Tyler gets to play with them every Tuesday. But that would mean only going to town every other week, I wonder if I could make it that way or not. It would be easier to go to town without Tyler and it would safe gas money if I only went twice a month if possible.

Am I stressing too much over all this, are playdates important to a 3 year old?

Life on the mountain come fall time

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 15:38:03 PDT

After a hectic start to school this year things are finally getting into a routine (then Christmas break will come and throw everything off again!) I tried several different routines for things, down to emailing my grocery list to my cell phone (bad idea when you don't get reception on the mountain to check things). Finally I resorted to my old fashioned hand written calendar & list (DH says I'm the queen of list).

But this past week I made 2 trips to Bakersfield and still forgot stuff, my mom finished some last minute shopping for me Friday while she was in town. My little Tater Tot (Tyler) turned 3 yesterday and we had his birthday party here on Sunday. I forgot hamburger meat and buns, chips, pasta salad stuff - I'm surprised I remembered the decorations. Talk about a headache for me that weekend. But in my own defense I will say I had a class Monday in town from 6-10 and left the mountain later than planned (about 3 hours later - at least 2 shopping stops wasted), I've had a whole lot on my mind between personal matters, the kids, and the ever present $$$$ concerns of a family.

Every weekend from now til about Christmas time has something going on, even if it's only 1 day of the weekend - makes it very hard to get things done, plus I work every other weekend. On Saturday the real estate office held open houses so that took up my afternoon, then I had a cake to make and decorate, dinner (cheated - we went out for dinner!), laundry and I had to work Sunday morning before the party. At least majority of my house was cleaned on Friday, I only needed to dust and put things away Sunday morning.

Whew, I needed to express some frustations - I feel better now!!

TALLADEGA FRIGHTS open every night this week!

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 12:03:04 PDT

TALLADEGA FRIGHTS

Bakersfield's newest and this year's most popular "haunt" is open

Monday-Saturday this week!

Mon-Thurs., 7-10

Halloween night - 7-midnight

Saturday - 7-midnight

Come see what all the FRIGHT is about!

TALLADEGA FRIGHTS ... if you dare!

Talladega Frights is located at Fruitvale/Norris Park, 6221 Norris Rd., Bakersfield.

Boo at the Zoo

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 09:46:02 PDT

Saturday , my family went to the Boo at the Zoo. We had som much fun. So many very creative costumes and kids running amuck. My boys had a good time seeing and animals. The reptile house had a snake out to see and feel. The bears ate La Rosa bars. The kiddo's got a laugh watching them lick the ice cream. My parents joined us this year as we celebrated my dad's birthday that day too. It was a fun time had by all.

American Kids SW offer HomeSchool Classes

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:30:25 PDT

American Kids Sports Center SW

Now Offers A Class For Home School Students!

This class is great for all Home School students who want something fun and active to do. This class is American Kids version of a P.E. Class. Kids will learn gymnastics skills along with doing a variety of fun physical activities. So don't let your child end up in front of the T.V. this school year. Bring them to American Kids Sports Center SW!

For just $100 you recieve 1 Term of classes (7-9 Weeks)

Sign-Up TODAY!

Located: 4401 Ride St. (behind 24hr Fitness on White Ln. & Gosford)

Phone: 833-3986

Website: www.AmericanKidsSports.com

Email: Info@AmericanKidsSports.com

Something cute I've noticed

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 11:41:43 PDT

As baby grows, I can definitely feel the fact he's got less room to move and groove. This week I've actually seen his feet push against my tummy (up near my ribs) and stick out. I just push them back in.

Today I've noticed that when I'm on the phone, he squirms around a lot. I wonder if he is responding to the sound of my voice? When I'm just quietly typing at my desk, he doesn't move as much.

I'm really anxious to meet this little guy, but I do also enjoy feeling him move around inside me. Even though I feel like a boxing ring sometimes, baby's movements amuse me and amaze me. Yes, I believe I will miss the squirms and pokes after he enters the world. But I am so looking forward to his smiles and giggles!

Something funny my son said the other day...

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:52:43 PDT

I'm starting to think the TV might be on too much at home...

The other day, we saw a billboard for a casino while we were running errands. DS apparently recognized it from the TV commercials (they usually play at news time). He said, "Eagle Mountain Casino!" I said, "What??" Then he exclaimed, "Mommy it's Eagle Mountain Casino! They have more winners and more action!"

I thought I was going to pee my pants.

I guess he pays more attention to the TV than I thought.

One month to go (give or take)

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 09:29:29 PDT

Today is Oct. 21, which means I am one month from my due date of Nov. 21. Of course, if all goes as "planned." Which I hear never does. The baby could be here sooner. Or it could be here later. I have no expectations — only that the baby will come at some point :)

Saturday night, we thought maybe he was coming early. About 10 p.m., I turned over in bed and suddenly felt a warm wetness. Was it the gush of my water breaking? No way ... couldn't be. But what else could it have been? James calmly got out the list of things to pack and started filling a small bag. I called the hospital to see if I should come in. "It sounds like your water broke. We'll see you in a few minutes," the nurse said.

No way — this couldn't be happening now! We haven't even had the baby shower yet! I haven't painted the nursery! We have no diapers! No car seat! I still haven't bought a pump for the birth ball or created my birthing playlist on my iPod or bought my nursing bras. We haven't taken our breastfeeding classes yet.

So we drove to the birth center and quietly walked in. The nurse belted the fetal monitors to my abdomen. No contractions. Healthy heart beat. The nurse tested me for amniotic fluid — negative. The doctor took a peek and also tested for amniotic fluid — again negative. The baby was not coming that night. I could go home and rest easy.

Thank God. We are excited to meet our baby boy, but we aren't quite ready yet. I spent the next day prepping the walls in the baby's room to paint and we ordered the crib last night online. Still so much to do!

Fight Cancer By Getting Ready For The Holidays

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:33:44 PDT

For those of you who are intrested in helping out Relay For Life in the Fight Against CANCER!!! Valley Baptist Church will be holding its First Annual holiday Boutique! You can help the children fighting cancer and at the same time buy that special someone a gift. There will be BBQ, Raffles, Many beautiful and inexpensive gifts for that someone in your life.

Help local vendors and be ready to have some fun!

Date: Saturday November 29, 2008

Time: 9:00am - 2:00pm

If you have any questions please let me know.

He's Won Half the Battle

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:10:49 PDT

Yes, I have another one about what comes out of my four year old's mouth. Words, I mean. Maybe it's because I don't have the radio on as much in the car, or perhaps it's because I ask him more questions these days, but whatever it is, he seems to be having more to say lately.

Today, we were driving home from school when he abruptly notified me that his three imaginary friends, Cody, Honcho, and Meije, have unfortunately passed away. (To refresh yourself, or educate yourself on the three friends, read here.)

I was disturbed at this news not only for the obvious reason I don't know how to breach the subject of death with a four year old, but also because I liked those three little invisible dudes and was worried this was a legitimate end to their occupation within Ethan's life.

"No, say it isn't so. I don't want them gone. Bring them back, Ethan." I played.

"Nope. I can't do that. I'm not God. I'm just a boy. A boy who is not God. God is in charge of things."

It was, most certainly, profound. I responded by saying, "Honey, if you remember that fact, even when you're an old man, you've won half the battle. Because most people can't figure that one out at all."

Fun Preschooler Activities

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:28:02 PDT

I am sure there are moms (and dads) out there like myself who have moments when their preschooler drives them bananas. I usually then pull out the crayons and coloring books and let him go to town. But that can lose its novelty after a while, and I've been trying to come up with new things to keep his sharp little mind busy.

I came across this great site today, with super ideas for preschooler activities. Here is the link: Preschool Activities

My favorite is the Preschool Ziploc Bag Activities. Such a creative idea! And easy to take with you to, say, grandma's house or out to dinner.

Planning a Fall Festival

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:08:57 PDT

I am planning a Fall Festival for my husband's fellow co workers and their families. I have never done this before and I am feeling a little stressed out. Taking care of my four boys and planning this event for 200 people is taking its toll on me. The festivities take place this Sunday and there is still so much to pull together to really make this happen.

Wish me luck!

Halloween Countdown....

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 22:34:58 PDT

So, we have the official Halloween Countdown going at our house! Eleven days and counting down! My oldest is now 6 and in first grade. He is very excited about this year's halloween parade at school, and has informed me that "I NEED to get working on his cosutme!!" This Saturday was the Fall Festival at school - lots of games, fun, hay rides, petting zoo, candy and carnival style games to play. He LOVED the games and actually helping in giving away the prizes at the booth our class was responsible for.

Okay, here is the scoop on the costume....I usually give the boys a choice. When they were smaller, we just looked online and ordered them cute ones from Disney.com One year the oldest was Buzz Lightyear and the younger one was Woody. That was my favorite.....so far. The oldest has been Superman, Stitch (from Lilo and Stitch), Buzz Lightyear, Woody, and Bob the Builder.

Last year, the youngest was not much in the mood for holiday festivities since his "best friend in the whole world" moved out of town....that was a major trauma! So, this year, he has announced that he wants to be Diego the animal rescuer! WOO HOO - I already have that arranged and not a problem! The oldest....well, he has announced that he wants to be Indiana Jones. So, we have a little work to do on that one. I thought I could get a pair of khaki cargo pants, he has brown boots, a shirt and a jacket. The hat may be a challenge and the "rope/whip" will be hand made out of soft material. I am still trying to figure out the brown satchel/map case he carries. Any suggestions?

I was thinking I may go as Sarah Palin this year....Maybe I could get my hubby to be McCain? HA HA HA!! Happy Halloween everyone!!

Out of the Mouths of Babes

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 07:19:43 PDT

We were at Rusty's Pizza Parlor today. G was sitting next to her prince, B. Here's what happened:

G: We're married. We need to live together.

B: Yeah, we're in true love.

G: I'll give you a married kiss. (She takes B's face in her hand, tilts her head, and goes in for the kiss.)

2 Aunties and Me, the Momma: Nooooooooo, don't kiss him!!!!!!! (All three of us reach out to run interference on the "marrried kiss." Happy to say the kiss was successfully blocked.)

As I sit in shock, the two aunties cover their mouths and try not to show their laughter.

Oh, boy. You know, this is all Disney's fault. This prince and princess thing has gone too far.

Then we we got home, the kiddo said, "Me and my prince need to go . . . where do you call it, Mommy?"

"I don't know, sweetheart. What are you talking about?" (I'm thinking she might say "vacation," and I'll explain to her that the newlyweds go on a honeymoon after the wedding. Now why would I think this?)

"After we get married, like we go to prison."

"Uh, no, you don't go to prison when you get married." (This was promptly followed by a mini lecture on how marriage is beautiful, mommy and daddy love each other very much, and we have never thought of our marriage as prison.)

So, I'm thinking, who used the words marriage and prison in the same sentence around her? Aaarrggghhh!

This I have learned: expect the unexpected out of a four year old's mouth.

Am I a Soccer Mom now?

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 23:08:05 PDT

Well, we only had two days of soccer, so I probably would not be considered a soccer mom just yet. LOL

We put S into an "Itty Bitty Sports" league this fall, so for 4 weeks he gets to go spend an hour once a week playing soccer, basketball, and tee-ball with other 3-year-olds. He is surprisingly good at soccer, when he can stay focused on what he's doing. And he made his mom proud with how well he played basketball! He can't really dribble the ball yet, but he is becoming a good shot and is great at following the coach's directions. He seems to really enjoy it, and he is always starving when we get home, and exhausted. Last week, after basketball, he started falling asleep at the dining room table, something he hasn't done since he was a baby! I forgot to take my camera for the basketball day (which he did so well at!), but here is a pic of him with his papa on one of the soccer days. This Thursday is his last day, and he'll be playing tee-ball. I'll be sure to take the camera this time. :D

whatcha doin' this sunday afternoon???????

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 18:57:01 PDT

because "the mr.oscat trio" is playing at borders books (4980 stockdale hwy) this sunday afternoon (oct 19th) at 4pm. and.... it's free . we're talking about free family entertainment in a safe and comfortable environment with real restrooms and carpet!!!. does it get any better than that? yes, it does... the taylorettes will be there too...

so, will you and your family be there?

Our visit to the allergist!

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:15:14 PDT

Well, one thing that has consumed me lately...my youngest had issues after being on two different kinds of medications (via nebulizer) at least twice daily, plus the regular daily stuff...still issues ensued as the almond trees began to shake and the air quality suffered. So, we went to see the pediatrician and she referred us to the allergist for a consultation....we actually got in quickly and within a week or so, we met with the doctor. He was very nice, pleasant and had suffered with asthma himself for most of his life. So, he understands what we are experiencing. He listened to the medications we administered, agreed with it all, and then suggested allergy testing to help in avoiding the triggers that may be causing the issues he was currently experiencing...

The next week, we returned for the testing...not pleasant; however, it was helpful. We returned the following week for the appointment to get the results. Mold and dust mites...nothing to do with pollen, trees or anything outside; well, except the mold outside with leaves and such. So, I have set to cleaning like a mad woman - sealing all the bed in a case, pillow and the mattress. No mold to speak of...except with the leaves that get wet outside....not much to be done about that. I am thankful that there were no reactions to dogs - since we had promised the boys a golden retriever sometime later in the year. We'll see.... Until there is another major issue, the youngest is doing well, I am worn out from cleaning and everyone is happy! I think the "cleaner air" has helped also...since the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" days have seemed to fade into the sunset...until next spring...

TAKES THE CAKE

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:14:23 PDT

A few years back I took some cake decorating classes. It was a fun time with another Mom, for some time away from home time. ( that really sounded bad huh). I got excited when my Littlest one turned 1. I thought long and hard and made him a Cookie Monster cake to go with his Birthday theme. My brother and his wife liked it so well they asked me if I would do a cake for my Neice's 1st birthday, what an honor. After completing the cakes I have decided not to quit my day job and go into the cake business because my family likes to eat.

Just what's happening

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 10:13:29 PDT

I know it's been a LONG time since I posted something on my blog here. I'm super busy these days with a lot of things. I work full time in IT and that keeps me busy and travelling sometimes. I also have my photography which is my real passion in life and that keeps me busy with a lot of the networking I do and my photography blog which I try to update as much as possible. Not to mention actually doing photo shoots here and there. I did just launch a special for christmas/holiday cards so I was busy getting some beautiful card designs together and putting packages for that. I have some details posted here but if anyone is interested feel free to contact me directly: michael@jkmichaels.com for more info.

So my kids just turned 4 and 2 (son and daughter respectively) and they're a handful, especially my 2 year old daughter. She's the sweetest little devil if you know what I mean. She is constantly looking for ways to get into trouble but has a sweet smile that makes it hard to stay mad at her.

I'm headed to Anaheim this weekend to visit one of my wife's close friends. Her friend is pregnant (and about to pop any day now) so we want to see her one last time before she has the baby. Maybe we'll get lucky and she'll have the baby while we're there! No Disneyland this trip, we're planning on that in the new year sometime.

Last weekend I went golfing for the first time in like 6 months. I didn't do so well but Sunday it was beautiful outside so it was a great day to be out! Anyway, here are a few pics from my golfing afternoon with my buddy Tim at the Riverlakes golf course.

As always if you have time please check out my blog here

Mike

Does Anyone Know Where to Find More Info about BCSD Board Candidates?

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:59:46 PDT

The elections are coming up and the only campaigning as far as education goes that I can easily find involves the High School District.

Where can I find more details about the Bakersfield City School District - the largest elementary school district in the state, where the children come first?

I see endorsements for the incumbents but I would like to know what they have done, what they want to do, and what the challengers believe as well.

HELP!

These folks serve my children. I can see lots of room for improvement and would like to partner with qualified, inspired educators than the alternative.

Baby's first road trip!

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:13:52 PDT

Now that our little man is 9 weeks old we used my 26th birthday as an excuse to take our first road trip since he has been born! Of course we have plenty of family members who would have been more then happy to keep him overnight for us, but we could'nt handle being away from him for more then two hours. So I stuffed the truck with more stuff then we could have possibly used, figuring it's better to be over prepared then under prepared. I hoped that if I fed him and had him all snuggled in his car seat that he might sleep for the 2 and half hour drive to Pismo, and sure enough, he did! We were so happy. I had checked the weather forcast before we left town and so we expected it to be cold, but it was so windy that Cash had to stay under the cover of his stroller all day on Saturday. We opened it long enough to snap a few quick pictures on the peir. Sunday the wether was much more welcoming. Though it was still cold, we were able to take him out of the stoller for a little longer and enjoy the beach for a while. It ended up being a great first trip as new parents and we got some cute pictures of our little family. Next year maybe we will be able to actually take him on the sand so he can see the beautiful ocean. That's one of the great things about Bakersfield, we are so close to so many different fun locations like Pismo and Disneyland and the forest. I really think my husband and I are going to love raising our son here, just like we were. Next year we are going to take so many trips with our little guy, I can hardly wait! On the way home he also slept the entire time, I bet it won't be so easy when he's 14 months, but I can hope!

Grasping at Metaphors

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 20:54:45 PDT

Ethan has been opening his little mind to a world full of great big metaphors.

The other day we had a particularly taxing day in the disciplinary arena. When my husband finally got home, he asked Ethan if he had been a good boy for mommy. To which Ethan replied, "No. I was mean to her."

"How mean?" Daddy asked.

"I broke her straw." Ethan got close to his daddy and whispered, "She's really upset because she told me over and over again it was her last one."

I was sitting at my computer when I overheard the conversation and couldn't help but laugh. It was the first time I had used the metaphor with Ethan...You've broken the last straw.

A few days later Ethan was jumping from the couch to the coffee table and back to the couch again. I was doing the dishes and grinding my teeth when Ethan noticed me.

"Mommy, am I breaking your straw again?"

"Yes, Ethan, you are."

"Is it your last one?"

"No."

"Well, how many do you have left?"

I gaged my patience level and then assessed the intensity of a battle in direct correlation to the risk of a head injury and said, "I have four left."

"Oh, good!" And, he kept jumping. When he landed on the dog after the next jump he said, "I know, I know...three left."

I was blown away

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 16:31:49 PDT

A friend of mine called me a few weeks and told me that she had found an all natural wrap that when placed on the belly over night would help me lose up to 8 inches off my belly. This I had to try. I measured myself before putting it on went to bed got up and measured again, I was blown away. I had lost 6 inches off my belly over night. I was in love with this product. I called 10 of my friends and told them all about this great product and had them come over to my house and placed this wrap on them. After just one hour all 10 women had lost from 2 to 4 inches off their belly's. They are all hooked as I am. Now I am here as a Holistic Therapist telling all of you that this is an all natural product that really works. It does not just rid your body of water like most products, it breaks down the fat under the skin. If you want to know more about this amazing new product for both men and women go to www.wrapitoffN45.com and see it for yourselves. They have a wrap for the belly, the thighs, the arms, the chin and the faces well as many other great products. I'm telling you check out the web site, try the products and see the results on yourself.

Anybody home?

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 20:37:51 PDT

It's awfully quiet on RB. Where'd everyone go?