As impetus, we had an impromptu 4th of July gathering. Apparently, almost no one had plans for the 4th, and what started out as two families turned into a good sized crowd. So obviously, we had to get the yard spruced up. I finally got all my pots planted, and we put up our garden lights and what not. Usually these tasks would have been completed much earlier in the year, but the aforementioned never-ending winter prevented this.

We were able to offer our guests a possible view of the fireworks. Possible, because we haven’t lived here over a 4th yet. I’m pleased to report that our house is even more awesome than we already knew! We have a kick-ass view of the airshow and fireworks over Tacoma’s Freedom Fair. Woot! The airshow was actually pretty mindblowing. It seemed like those jets were only a couple of hundred yards outside my window doing all their Top Gun flips and shit.

Anywho, just a small post to say, HOORAY FOR SUMMER!!!

A friend of ours rented a screening room at a pub downtown over the weekend for his birthday and we watched Top Gun. It reminded me of the first time I saw it, in the theater, WITH MY DAD. I had chosen it for a dad/daughter outing because it seemed like a guy movie that he might enjoy, you know, plus cute boys. And thus, I was SCARRED FOR LIFE by the longest, most painful sex scene in the history of film. I swear to god, that thing lasts a half an hour. “….take my breath aaaa-waaaaay…,” tongues in silhouette… GAH. I’m all squirmy just thinking about it. I was recounting this charming tale to the nice couple sitting next to me that night, and I started to notice they were both smiling politely but with no hint of common experience. Then I remembered that the birthday boy was only turning 27, and these two looked kinda young. My story started trailing off as I said, “Are you guys too young to have seen this in the theater?”

“We were born in 1984,” they answered. Top Gun came out in 1986.

So! This weekend I’m doing a half marathon. Did you read that in a confident voice in your head? Good. I don’t want to set myself up for a poor result, but let’s just say I’m not quite as prepared as I would like to be. Before I went back to work, I was following a training schedule and totally rocking it, but um, not so much since. So, my goal is to finish. That’s all. I feel kind of funny about it all of a sudden. It’s not like me to be facing such a huge undertaking without having visualized every moment and planned for every outcome. I just downloaded race information today! I haven’t even thought about what I’ll wear. If any of you have any advice, as far as what to wear/pack/eat or anything else, let me know. I looked at three different forecasts until I found one I liked, which was partly cloudy. The others had the straight line rain. (cue sad trombone)

Hmm. Let’s see. What’s been going on? Ooh! How about some updates!

I quit that fruity yoga class. I know! I’m so lame! But it turned out that due to a couple of things I didn’t consider at the time, I was going to have to miss 3 of the 6 classes, and they were really strict about showing up every time. So I told a small fib about child care and got most of the fee credited to my account for more yoga. But also, the book we were supposed to be reading was SO BARFY. The worst kind of poorly written hippie drivel. And this is not my inner midwestern republican talking, this is me, the lefty-cloth diapering-baby food making-HIPPIE. It was bad.

Did I mention the running? I don’t remember. But I think it’s safe to say, now that I’ve been doing it for almost two months, that um, I’ve been running. This is pretty monumental for me, because I’ve never been a runner. But I’ve decided I’d like to be, and even though it SUUU-HUUUCKS some times, I would like to cultivate myself into a running-type person. In the spirit of my predictable over-achieving nature, I’ve registered for the Seattle Rock and Roll Half Marathon in June. Sometimes, when I think about running three times as far as I am capable now, I get the Nervous Tummy, but then I remember I can just walk whenever I want to, and who cares?

Clark is the coolest. I can’t believe how much fun he’s getting to be. He is a genius and can say the following words:

Hi
Bye Bye
Mama
Dada
Hot
Vroom
Cheese
Banana
Hop
Birdie
Quack
Cracker
Tree
Apple
Shoes
Moo
Up

We have a list going on the chalk board in the kitchen. His new trick for the week is nodding yes, which is super cute and also useful.

Ooh! This weekend we’re going to San Diego with another fun couple and leaving the boy with his grannie. It’s a great time of year for good deals on flights and hotels, and about a month ago, we all kind of spontaneously just booked it. I’m really excited, though since I sometimes like to fret just to fret, I’m now thinking we shouldn’t be spending money and that I am going to miss my Clarkie. I will get over it, I’m sure.

The following exchange occurred recently.

Me: (conversationally) So, what’s going on with your pants?

SB: I rolled them.

Me: On purpose? Are you going for a bikeride?

SB: Actually, GQ says that you can roll your jeans now. It’s the next big thing.

Me: Yeah, well, that may be true, but everyone but GQ thinks you’re a dork.

Then we laughed. Then he let me take a picture of his pants for you all.

While getting the above shot off my iPhone, I found this one. How cute is this? And yes, it’s way past time for a baby gate at the top of our super tall, straight down to the bottom stairs, but it’s finally installed. The worst thing was, we had it purchased and sitting in the hallway for weeks. We were definitely tempting the gods on that one.

Ooooh! Let me show you some pretty pictures from the 20’s party I went to.

It was a GREAT party. The venue was perfect and everyone totally got into dressing up. If by chance you would like to see the whole gallery it’s on my website, password “flapper”.

And speaking of douchey images of oneself, I have GOT to figure out a way to shut off my inner cynic. This class I’m taking is going to be pretty cool, I think, but it would be a lot better if I could shut off one of the voices in my head. It’s like I’ve got a middle-aged, midwestern republican living up there who always has to tell me what a hippie I am. As I sit in a circle, sharing thoughts, or worse, interpretive dancing, all I can hear is that guy making fun of me, telling me what a silly, liberal, priveleged fruit I am. This is super lame, because that negativity is so not me! I’m a joiner and an excellent sport. I’m perfectly happy to freestyle dance in a circle with other grownups on a Sunday afternoon.

Further evidence of this privelege, check this out:

I accidently paid $8 for some chocolate covered hazelnuts. I thought that sticker said 50% off. SB had to point it out to me. I’m sad to say this is not the first time I’ve been fooled by expensive nuts. One time at Metropolitan Market, home to many guffaw-worthy, yet tempting and delicious grocery items, I accidently bought a $22 nut sampler. I didn’t look at the price when I picked it up, but when I was checking out and my apple, sparkling water, and nuts came to $27, I did a poor job of hiding my surprise. I’m ashamed to admit, I was too embarrassed to put them back.

Thanks all for your advice with the sleeping. It’s pretty effing bleak around here right now, as far as that’s concerned. I feel as if he’s a newborn again. In response to several of you who suggested eliminating the second nap, I’d be happy with ANY nap at all during the day. I completely agree with Amy in the comments though, and this is what he needs from me right now,
and it won’t last forever. As it stands, there is no sleeping unless one of us is holding him, day or night. Which means I get nothing done while he’s napping, and I don’t sleep at all after his first waking, so I’m up from 2am-7am. He better rethink some of this if he doesn’t want to be an only child. Wait…

Lastly, I’ve hopped on the Words With Friends bandwagon, so if you want to play, I’m ZestyJenny.

Ooh! Here’s some cuteness for you. Clearly, I found myself far too amusing:

* title: There’s a funny little moment at the end of recess across the street, when I hear the bell, the kids all run in, and if you look out the window right then, the playground is deserted but all the swings are still moving. I love it when I catch it.

SB and I have planned a weekend in San Diego in February with another fun couple. I’m super looking forward to it. I mention this because did you know you can download individual chapters on the Lonely Planet website? I paid $2.10 for the San Diego chapter of the California guide. Isn’t that rad? It’s also great for when you haven’t decided your destination so you don’t want to commit to the whole book. This came in handy when we were investigating islands off Honduras. I downloaded just the chapter for the little island we were considering and learned, oh hey! While the beaches are pristine, you need ALL 5 MALARIA SHOTS to go there. Valuable information gained, no book required.

Moms among you, tell me about your kid storage. I must admit, I’m finding it so satisfying to pack away stuff for Clark’s little brother. Last night I packed away all of the 6-12 month clothes. Here’s what I do. I have a drawer where I just shove things that don’t fit anymore. When the drawer’s full, I go through all the stuff, decide what to keep, then pack it in the appropriate rubbermaid. I feel like this system is a nice combination of lazy and organized. I also made an accoutrement tub where I managed to shove all the infant toys, the changing table pad, the boppy, and a bunch of baby blankets. I rule.

Lookie what we got a screaming deal on:

I guess I better figure out how to use it. I think you’re supposed to run behind it.

Today, I had to go up to Seattle to pick up a photo order, then just turn right back around and come home again to avoid the friday afternoon traffic. I did pay for 20 minutes of parking, though, so Clarkie and I took a little walk before getting back in the car.

He was absolutely transfixed by, and a little afraid of the Seattle Center fountain. I realized as I stood there holding him close, watching the water shoot so high into the air, accompanied by the shocking, air rifle-like, PHOOT of the hydraulics, that I hadn’t stopped to watch that fountian since I was little enough to run in it. It’s pretty neat!

Y.O. G. – #14, #15

1. Bike Rides.

2. Beer.

3. Hanging out in my house by myself. I can sit at the dining room table with my laptop, it’s perfectly quiet, and no one’s watching TV.

4. Burt’s Bees. I have those lovely post-plague, mouth breathing, cracked lips, and making out with my tube of Burt’s Bees is the only thing saving me.

5. I’m super thankful that the trip to Seattle and back went well with Clark today. He pretty much hates being in his carseat, no matter how many times we call it his Adventure Chair. (There’s a song, too, of course.) He was in excellent spirits for all but the last 10 minutes or so, when he would no longer be plied with graham crackers or sippy cups.

6. The ease in posting pictures with the flickr iPhone app. This little YOG project would feel so much more cumbersome to me if I couldn’t just snap a picture and upload it to flickr so easily. That way when I sit down to YOG, the photos are all ready to post.

Did Santa bring you all nice things? My favorite gifts were photography related, of course. I got this which will allow me to take dreamy looking old timey photos with my camera, and this spy lens, which will allow me to take pictures of people who don’t want to be photographed. HA! I’m actually most excited to use it for taking pictures of strangers on the street.

The main reason I came here today was to ask the advice of the seasoned mothers among you. In 3 days we will be leaving for NEW YORK CITY. Woot! (Long time readers will remember previous New Year’s trips, found here and here) We didn’t go last year because Clark was brand new, but we’re resuming our tradition! The fabulous friends we visit there have a kid now, too, so instead of a glamorous Manhattan New Year’s Eve, we will be celebrating in a rented cabin Upstate. We are so excited! HOWEVER, this little jaunt requares a long ass plane ride with our increasing sqirrelly and screechy 1 year old. So, ladies, bring on the tips and tricks. I’ve been collecting never before seen toys and planning snacks, but anything you can suggest would be greatly appreciated. The flight out there is a red eye, which could be awesome or TERRIBLE, but the flight back is an afternoon/evening. Also, what the heck am I supposed to do about the time change? Should I keep his schedule or try to make him conform to the East coast?

I hope everyone had great holidays! I have tons of disgustingly adorable photos of course, but not the time for uploading and editing and whatnot. Gah. I need to shower and plan a menu and get to the store before they get here so I better scram. Please fill my comments with all your tips for surviving travel, and inlaws, too.

Anywho, after such a long hiatus, I keep finding myself moved to blog, but with no blog for blogging. So, I hesitate to say it, but I think I’m back.

Let me catch you up. Firstly, we moved! I can’t believe we found a house, went through the whole real estate process, closed, packed, moved in, and set up, all in the space of time I’ve been gone, but in fact we did. There should be a post coming about our new (not new, 1890) house, which is AWESOME.

The other big thing that happened and is most responsible for my lack of blogging is I did a GIANT photography job that is consuming my every free moment and has been for about the last 6 weeks. Basically, I had about 400 clients in 3 days, resulting in countless hours of post processing and data management, all of which must be completed within my two nap windows and after 7pm. You know, the same time I have to do EVERYTHING ELSE in the world. Like cleaning and cooking and setting up the house, etc etc.

Let’s see. What else. I suppose a Clark update is in order. I’ve been reflecting a lot about how much I love this mothering gig. I was so afraid I wouldn’t! In fact, I just assumed I wouldn’t. I guess I listen to the wrong moms, but it seems like I hear more about the bad parts of being a mom than the good ones. I love it SO much. Yes, there’s the never ending to-do list, things I always feel like he won’t let me get done, but really that’s the worst of it. I know I’ve got some challenging times ahead as I enter toddlerhood, but seriously, the vast majority of the time I spend with Clark is utterly delightful. He makes me want to have 10 kids. We wont be having another one any time soon, but if something were to happen (impossible) and we got pregnant again, I don’t even think I’d freak out. Never thought I’d say that!

He is about to have his first birthday, so I’ll update you on his tricks in a later post, but here are some photos of the fam to tide you over.

The most gorgeous boy:

Clark’s first Thanksgiving, and most importantly, his first mashed potatoes:

Can anyone else feel me on the super unsuccessful xmas card photo shoot? Here is one of the gems:

Just a good one. His eyes are still super crazy blue.

So, friends, give me a shout if you’re still here. What’ve you been up to?

Where do you look forward traveling to with Clark, near and distant future?

Oh my gosh, just everywhere. I hope that we can take him all over the world! In the near future, I’m hoping we have a Thailand trip coming up in the fall. Distant? I’m looking forward to a time when he’s interested in museums and taking him to the UK. Not so much art, but history, ruins, castles, stuff like that. I’m so hoping for a nerdy child.

How much of your freezer has been taken over by baby food purees?

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Ha! Not much of it, actually. I don’t seem to have the proper storage containers for freezing baby food. (Can anyone recommend any?) I’ve been making a batch of whatever and putting it in individual serving sized bowls with lids in the fridge. At one time, I had a MASSIVE supply of frozen breastmilk, my “Freezer of Feedom” as we called it, but now, he eats so much I can’t seem to get too far ahead.

Have you quietly sneakily worried about where he will go to school yet, or is that thought completely off the radar?

That’s a problem for another day, but I’m hoping we can send him to a Waldorf School. I happen to know several Waldorf educated children and they’re all delightful, inquisitive, artistic sorts. It can be expensive, though, so who knows. It would be super cool if he could go to Waldorf all the way through, but I imagine at some point I would let him choose if he wanted to switch to public school.

How proud are you that your baby is so cute and how capable you have been of capturing every moment? Is there anything about him you wish you could capture on film but cant quite get?

I’m SO proud that he’s so cute! It’s such a crap shoot, right? I know if he wasn’t cute, I would still think he was, but judging by the attention he gets in public, I think he actually *is* cute. I don’t actually capture every moment, though. It’s hard to pay attention to him and photograph him at the same time. I also think that since I’ve been doing more professional sittings, I’m taking fewer pictures of my own kid. I need to take tons more, because if there’s something I’m not getting, it’s his range of expressions. I usually get a smile or the ‘wide open mouth curious face’ or the ‘wide open mouth excited’ face. He also does the most ADORABLE things with his lips, which I can never seem to capture. This reminds me, I need to get on his 7 month post!

Thanks, Leah! XOXO

Today I shall attempt to answer Jesse’s questions. Jesse is my oldest friend. We met our sophomore year of highschool in choir. She had just moved from California and had cool asymmetrical hair, so I decided we needed to be friends. I only had to stalk her for a little while before she relented.

What is different about motherhood from what you imagined? How has your perspective changed?

Well, this one’s kind of a big DUH, but it’s harder than I thought it would be. And more wonderful, too, but just, you know, there’s no break. Ever. So as far as perspective changing, I just have a lot more empathy for other mothers. Everyone needs to do what works for them. I used to be such a EXPERT about everything before I had a baby.

Describe your biggest dilemma these days.

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Sleeping. There’s never enough. Swistle wrote about this perfectly. There is no recipe for sleep success that will work for every baby, so no one can tell you, “Do this! You’ll be sleeping through the night instantly!” Sleep is such a difficult issue. If you’re reading this, and you have a child who sleeps well, always has, please know that you can thank YOUR CHILD for that, and not some awesome parenting tactic on your part that the rest of us haven’t figured out yet. (Did that sound bitchy? Forgive me, I don’t sleep.)

How have friendships changed since you had kids?

I don’t feel much change yet, only that I don’t have as much time to devote to their upkeep as I once did. Hopefully all my friends know that I still love them, and that they are very precious to me. Can we all get together, late 2010?

Will you have another child? What are your future plans?

Definitely. I’m thinking I’ll have the IUD taken out when Clark turns two. I think it’s very important to have a sibling. They are a witness to your childhood and family in a way no one else can be.

What are the three single most important things you have/do/think about each day NOT related to your baby or husband?

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Hmm. This is hard. I guess I think a lot about exercising, and how I’m not doing as much of it as I would like. Ditto for yard work. And I always have photo editing to do. I have two sittings worth of photos waiting to be Lightroomed and delivered. (And yet, here I am blogging. *sigh*)

Is your groove back? Do you care? What are you doing or not doing? Have you created a new groove?

It’s close. We have a ton of stuff coming up in the next couple of weeks, and I’m using this time to think about how I’m going to focus on self improvement as soon as I can. I’m thinking about joining a gym with childcare so I can work out like I want to. I’m also thinking about seeing a therapist. The groove is in reach, and I’m closer to it every day.

On the horizon in the next three months? Year? Five?

Man! These are tough questions! Three months? Getting my groove back. Year? Moving, perhaps? Five? Another kid, going back to work? I don’t know. Perhaps the therapist can help with this.

Best food you’ve made from scratch in the past week?

Dude. I have found it. The quest is over. The best chocolate chip cookie I’ve ever made. Thick, chewy, delicious. I plan to do a post all about it. It is worthy.

Memory from “this day” three, five, ten and twenty years ago.

Seriously? Hmm. Okay. Summer of 06 would have been our first summer in our house, so there was a lot of happy happy yard work. I also turned 30. I’m thinking of that as a time when I was almost at my awesomest. I was just starting my tech career, we finally had a house, and I was doing a lot of yoga. Five years ago was summer of 04 and we were living in England and I was miserable. Probably at my lowest point ever. I spent so much time alone that I could feel my personality changing. Ten years ago was the summer of 99, and ooh! That was the summer I spent in Costa Rica! I was on fire, then. Traveling! Learning a language! I was also recently freed for the last time from an oppressive on again off again relationship. That was a fantastic time. Twenty? 1989? That would be the summer before 8th grade. I was slicing and sorting strawberries for minimum wage, $4.25 an hour, that summer. I stood at a conveyor belt in a hot shack as strawberries went by, and I cut off their hats and pulled out any yucky ones before they fell off the end into a big grinder-thing to make jam and icecream toppings. I remember feeling cool because I had a job. I also remember eating nothing but Slim Fast shakes for lunch. Yikes. I kind of can’t believe my mom let me do that.

Biggest Clark-related worry. Biggest SB-related worry.

I worry that there will be something wrong with him, like autism or ADD or something like that, and that I won’t be able to handle it. SB? I worry that we’ll never get back to the way we used to be, and that everything is changed forever because of the baby. That probably seems too personal all of a sudden, but I imagine relationship changes and challenges are pretty common after a baby, and that I’m not the only one in the world with these worries.

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OMG, you guys, Breaking Bad is the best thing I’ve watched since Six Feet Under. We just powered through the first two seasons and I can’t stop thinking about it. I highly recommend it. Someone please watch it so that I can have someone to talk about it with!

None of these navel-gazey Flotsam posts have included a picture so I’m throwing these two in. SB and I got our Glam on and attended Zoobilee over the weekend. It’s a formal fundraiser for the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. It was SO FUN and totally worth the price of admission.