Author Archives: Tricia

Third Time’s a Charm

I’ve been writing this in my head throughout my entire maternity leave.  I wanted to get this out there sooner.  I was sure I’d have the time one afternoon, one evening, during naps, before anyone woke up one morning, etc.  Sadly, it took sitting back at my desk at work on a dreary, blustery, snowy

And the Garage Lights Were On!

A couple of weeks ago I had to work really late at a Leadership program my department was in charge of facilitating. At 10:00 PM when I turned onto our street I could see a light guiding me home…our external garage lights. Andy had left them on and it warmed my heart. It was just

What’s in a Name?

First, let me state that neither Andy nor I have any ill-will towards our parents for the names that were given to us… Naming a child is complicated.  You are most likely giving something to someone that they will keep for life.  And if it’s a boy, the last name will remain as well.  A

Family Dynamics – What’s in a Number?

From as early as I can remember, I’ve always wanted 4 children. So although I haven’t even given birth to baby #3 yet, I’m already contemplating the fate of #4 and it’s not looking good for its sake. Yes, I was a bit disappointed when it wasn’t twins this time, because then I’d be done

TV, or Not TV: That is the Question

Here’s another controversial topic that I’m sure every parent just loves…how much television do you really let your children watch? And what programs do they watch? Just like all of the other decisions parents make, this subject is a hot-button to many. I’m writing this from the point-of-view of a mother of a toddler and

I Will Not Be a Short-Order Cook

If your kid has a food allergy or medical conditions that cause a specific diet…this blog posting is NOT for you! I’ve waited and waited for my friend to write about this one on her own blog, but I’m waiting no longer. So the idea was hers, but now she’ll have to deal with the

Memory Keeping

As I said in an earlier post, I am a scrapbooker/journal keeper/historian/story teller by nature. A friend of mine recently wrote a piece on her blog about traditions and memories. Here are some of the ways I preserve those memories. Annual Shutterfly Photo Books: Each year (since the digital online versions became available) I try

Constantly Conversation-less

Have I started a conversation with you lately and not finished it? Don’t be offended…that’s just how life is with children. Being a mom is a wonderful thing and comes with wonderful perks. However, having “eyes in the back of your head” also means that you are always keeping an eye (or ear) out for

Gluttony of Gift Giving

As I complete my Christmas shopping, I’m thinking again about the “gluttony of gift giving”. Yep, you read this correctly – I’m almost finished with my Christmas shopping for 2009. My goal each year is to be 90% done by Halloween. I know most of you are not surprised. I shop all year and keep