Driving ourselves to debt (pt 2)

Hello, my name is Joanna, and I am a Shopper.OK, I admit, I'm a shoe whore. I also like to be surrounded by pretty things. I love matching dishes and coordinating bedrooms. I prefer to have the perfect weight jacket for the temperature and the most appropriate mode of transportation for my baby (i.e. sling, … Continue reading Driving ourselves to debt (pt 2)

Saying goodbye

Today I took down the crib that cradled my two children through nights and naps from infancy into their toddler years.And today I cried.It's not that I want another baby. It's not that I'm attached to the 3rd-hand crib or the space it was taking up in the kids' room. It isn't even because I … Continue reading Saying goodbye

Driving ourselves to debt (pt 1)

I drove to the mall in order to save $5. Yes, I used $2 in gas so I could save $5 on a sweater. Can you say idiot?But that's our problem, isn't it? We, in this country, drive, drive, drive and shop, shop, shop.I'm not going to say anything about the failing banks and the … Continue reading Driving ourselves to debt (pt 1)

The Sound of Silence

It's 6AM and I've been awake since 4. Ike (Tropical Storm Ike, that is) has been blustering around the house all night, licking us with hot, sticky tropical winds. It's 6AM and almost 80 degrees outside... in Vermont... in September! It'll probably snow next week.Once in a while I don't mind not being able to … Continue reading The Sound of Silence

Remembering Katrina (part 2)

Sitting in the hallway on a mattress. The wind is howling. The roar is constant, like sitting in the middle of a major highway at rush hour - only louder. When it gusts, it shakes the house and you can't hear the person talking right next to you.We monitor the speed of the wind by … Continue reading Remembering Katrina (part 2)

September Sentiments

September has always been my favorite month. It is a month of beginnings. I came into the world in September and as a child in England, it meant the beginning of a new school year. I actually turned 5 on my second day in Mrs. Goddard's class at Huish Infant School, Yeovil, Somerset.I have always … Continue reading September Sentiments

Booster seats and belly buttons

Now's this for a bad day? I almost get the cops called on me and my daughter could have gotten lyme disease.With one minute remaining to get to daycare on time I discover the only thing filling the space where H's booster seat usually sits is a smorgasbord of crumbs, small toys, and juice stains. … Continue reading Booster seats and belly buttons

Sweaty Puppy: An argument against co-sleeping

I like to sleep, no, I love to sleep.Our 22-month old has been sleeping in his crib since he grew out of his co-sleeper at 4 months old (yes, he was a "healthy" baby). Last night, whether due to a bad dream or questionable cup of milk, he could not be consoled by the usual … Continue reading Sweaty Puppy: An argument against co-sleeping

Green snot and fruit flies

Today I am sick. Husband is sick. Children are sick. Green snot sick. Pull those puffy red things out of the back of your throat and put them on ice for a few days sick.My eyes hurt looking at this white screen but I will attempt to write a few words.About fruit flies.They have to … Continue reading Green snot and fruit flies

Serendipity on a Bike

This move from Vancouver to Vermont is not an easy prospect for 'lil sis. We have been scouring the area and the internet trying to discover the potentials of her new home.One thing you should know about my sister (let's call her "C") is that she's painfully allergic to malls and other large (or small, … Continue reading Serendipity on a Bike