Vegan Faith

Oh Happy Day

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:59:00 +0000

Oh happy day! It's amazing what a little bit of sleep and a little sunshine can do for the soul. My happy baby is feeling all better, and from our follow up appointment yesterday we learned it was Roseola. Not particularly worthy of a hospital stay. We did see the PA again yesterday and came to a mutual agreement that a different pediatrician, one with more experience working with unvaccinated children, would be ideal for our situation. Honestly, since my experience on Thursday, I feel like we have actually had a very positive experience with our pediatrician office. Forcing a little communication on Friday (and having Alex there to support me) did wonders for the relationship.

Since my cutie has been feeling all better since we returned from the hospital, we opted to get strict with schedules and sleep and Make.This.Work. So we put our research to use and created our ideal schedule for Eleanor:

7am- wake up, nurse, play time
8:30-9am- morning nap (1-1.5 hours long)
10:30-1pm- wake up, nurse, play time
1pm- afternoon nap (1.5-2 hours long)
2:30pm- wake up, nurse, play
5:30- begin bed time routine:
     bath
     read books
     nurse
6:15-6:30- bedtime
9-10pm- nurse (dream feed)

When we put her down for a nap or for bed time, we sing her the same songs each time, lay her down and wait until she is comforted and walk out of the room. If she begins to cry we wait 2 minutes and then walk back in the room to comfort her. We will soothe with Shushing and rubbing her belly or back. When she is calm we leave the room. We do this again after 5 minutes if she is still crying. So far she has been out by the second 5 minute interval. And on a few occasions she has gone right to sleep after laying her down! Success!

Notice that I didn't include any night time feedings after her 10pm dream feed. We cut them out starting Sunday night and have had great success. For the past week or so, I could tell that she really wasn't eating, rather just pacifying herself with nursing. The first night we cut it out she woke a few times and fussed and we continued to do our 2-5-5...intervals. I let Alex off the hook and did all the night time wakings and still felt like I got great sleep. She didn't fuss that much!

Our second night (last night) I heard her wake up around 1am. I waited the 2 minutes and before I could go in she quieted back down. She did this a few more times but I never had to get out of bed. I fell back asleep and woke up at 4am (on my own), 5am, and 6am. I tossed and turned because I am not used to sleeping all night long, and because my boobs were so full! But Eleanor slept on. Finally she woke up around 6:30 this morning and I got up to nurse her.

I AM SO PROUD OF MY LITTLE GIRL!

Now I realize that this could be a fluke. This could wax and wane over the next few weeks, and still over the next year. But we did it. We slept through the night! Almost. But it counts and I'm so excited!

In completely unrelated news, I broke my blender yesterday. Boo!

I was so disappointed. My food processor recently bit the dust as well, so now I'm left without any means of quickly chopping or processing anything. It cramped my cooking since I needed to make bread crumbs for our dinner. I was finely chopping toasted bread by hand when I had an epiphany.

Mason jars fit perfectly on most blenders. Try this.

So I successfully made bread crumbs but am now in the market for a new blender and a new food processor. Not happy about these future purchases as I was really hoping to also get a fancy new camera soon. I hate when my "big purchases" wish list grows to a materialistic quantity, but that's where it is at right. I would like a new road bike. But I also really want a mountain bike. Not to mention the clips and tri-suit I mentioned wanting. And I need new running shoes. And for that matter, probably a new swim cap (small purchase...but still). I'm sure I could think of many more. And I hate being like this. Wanting stuff. Yuck. For now I will be grateful for nights of great sleep and warm weather and the hope of summer lurking in the near future.

What A Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Mon, 20 May 2013 12:47:00 +0000

I am exhausted. (Long pause) To dive into this weekend's events may take a very long time. It was full of so much good, so much bad and so much work. It is still only Sunday morning and yet I feel that it should already be Monday. Longest weekend ever.

Of course it started early on Friday. Since Alex took the day off to help me care for Eleanor it felt like the weekend already. As he was getting ready for work that morning and I was rocking Eleanor in her room, I decided work was just not going to happen for Alex. I needed to work a full day Friday and there was no way Eleanor would cooperate. She was being hyper-needy. Which is ever so cute, but not good for productivity. Usually Alex's work would come first on a normal day. I can make up hours whenever, he certainly can't go in at night and teach. But this weekend was the Girls on the Run 5k presented by Iredell Health System and I could not take the day off.

I did arrange my schedule to accompany them to Eleanor's morning pediatrician appointment, a follow-up from the previous day. Despite my frustrations with her peds, we kept the appointment because she was a sick baby and finding a new doctor on short notice didn't seem like a great solution. We saw the PA Friday morning and with Alex's support we discussed our concerns. She was open to the conversation and assured us that she would also talk with the doctor's about their attitude toward our choices. We did, however, move forward and have blood drawn to check for bacterial infections. I'm not sure I mentioned it on Friday but Eleanor had been running a temperature of 104 degrees since Tuesday night.

After the doctor appointment I went about my work and left Alex at home with a very crabby baby. Around noon the PA contacted us with some news about Eleanor's blood work. Her white blood cell counts were ok, but were producing immature new cells. She felt concerned enough to "book us a room at Levine's" as Alex likes to put it. We threw ourselves into crisis mode. Could Eleanor really be sick enough to be admitted into the children's hospital? What was I going to do about the 5k?

I made arrangements to cover for me during set-up that evening at Lowe's Corporate Headquarters. It wasn't easy. There was a ton of communication happening, everyone had to pitch in to make it work. I was on the phone pretty much from noon until 9pm that night arranging everything. It was exhausting.

While I went about work, Alex started packing bags and finding a dog sitter. We knew they wanted us to stay overnight so Eleanor could be observed. We were packed and ready to go and on the road to Charlotte at 3pm. It took quite a while to get all of our arrangements in place. We drove separately, knowing that regardless I would have to leave in the wee hours of the morning to be back in Mooresville for the 5k.

Alex beat me to the hospital and checked Eleanor in. I was close behind and we settled in for the evening.

I set up shop and continued working while doctors and nurses came in and out to check on Eleanor. They all agreed that she looked well enough. They didn't run any more tests since our pediatrician had already done a urine sample, a nose swab and blood work. We waited as one by one test results came in. The urine sample was negative for UTI or any other infections. The nose swab came back negative for any viral infections. So we just continued to wait. I am very thankful they didn't feel the need to run an IV or fluids. While she wasn't nursing much, she still seemed well hydrated. In fact, she seemed pretty happy even.

Except for being at the hospital, it might have seemed like a normal day for us. Me on my computer, Alex watching TV and Eleanor playing with her toys. Of course she was more tired than usual, and a little grumpier, but her demeanor was pretty great overall. We questioned many times why we were even at the hospital. I think in many ways our caregivers at Levine's also questioned the decision to send us here overnight as well.

Around dinner time they did give us the option to return home with a shot of antibiotics. We would have to follow up on Saturday and our only option would be to take her to an urgent care. Our second option would be to just stay overnight at the hospital. It seems like a silly decision but we opted to stay at the hospital. For starters, we were already settled in. We had already arranged everything back at home and at work to be gone, and to visit an urgent care would cost us another sizeable copay. They handed us a couple of meal tickets for dinner and brought us blankets. We got comfortable for the night.

My story is becoming very lengthy so we will just fast forward through a sleepless night (hospital beds are not the most comfiest). We swapped turns sleeping with Eleanor in our arms. Finally around three in the morning I was awake and not going back to sleep. I got ready to leave and just hit the road early, heading home to shower, take the pup out and eat some breakfast. I left Eleanor in her daddy's care while I put on my work hat for the day.

The day started out perfectly. While we were expecting thunderstorms, the rain held off in the distance as we set up for the Girls on the Run 5k. While the wee hours of the morning crawled by, time went into warp-speed once we were at Lowe's and setting up. Before I knew it the girls and their families had all arrived and it was just minutes before the 5k began!

It was an awesome event (as always). It never ceases to amaze me that all these girls accomplished their goals. And it is not lost on me how lucky I am to have this job. Several times throughout the morning I caught myself choked up. When the 5k began and the girls took off I coughed back tears. And when I finally stopped moving for five seconds to take in the past 24 hours and the whirlwind of a weekend I had had, the tears could hold back no longer. I turned and gave my friend Brittney a hug and finally told her where Eleanor was.

It wasn't long after that I talked to Alex on the phone and he told me they checked her temperature and Eleanor no longer had a fever. And by the time the 5k was over and we were cleaning up he was already home with her, safe and sound. Her blood culture results all came back normal and we still have no idea what caused the fever. I have heard many of those tests can be inaccurate. But today she is still doing well, although a little more docile than usual.

I was exhausted on Saturday. Alex made me lunch when I finally arrived home. His mom drove down for the afternoon and we all decided to get out of the house and walk around the Race City Festival downtown. The rest of the day it was quiet. The gloominess of the sky aided our ability to relax and rest at home. Around seven that night I was fast asleep in bed.

Fast forward again to this morning (Sunday). The gloom is still resting in the sky, and we are quietly resting at home. We skipped church, something we never do. Alex is also very sick today and Eleanor and he are both napping as I type out this post. After 12 solid hours of sleep last night, I am feeling recovered from this weekend, but still thankful for the quiet morning. And very thankful for my happy baby who is feeling much better!

Future GOTR Girl!

Pediatrics

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Fri, 17 May 2013 11:15:00 +0000

I am about to make a very controversial public confession and I don't really care for any feedback. I know that sounds pretty harsh considering I'm the one putting this out there in a public way. However, this is a very personal choice, and one every parent makes for their own children. The reason I am addressing it now is because I want to be clear that this is in fact a choice. You as a parent have a choice.

Vaccines.

We are choosing for now not to immunize Eleanor. I just threw up in my mouth a little as I typed that for fear that every reader just turned their snotty nose up at me. And those who didn't, just shuttered in their chairs in disgust that I would even discuss this. Discussing vaccinations is as politically-incorrect as discussing...well, politics. Or religion. But if you know me, I quite enjoy discussing religion (or, faith, that is), so I'm going to swallow hard and move forward. Today we're discussing this.

It comes up today because I feel extremely bullied by my pediatrician about our choice not to vaccinate. And I fear that their predispositions are clouding judgement when it comes to treating Eleanor. I can't count how many times today I heard "because she isn't vaccinated..." and I am concerned they may overlook symptoms and jump to conclusions because they are being short sighted.

Today's experience has led me to the decision to switch doctors. I believe we are going to seek out an alternative medicine pediatrician or even a family doctor whose sole intent is not to have every patient in the office immunized. That may seem like a harsh statement, but unfortunately it could possibly be very true.

In the article linked above, popular tactics used by pediatricians to force vaccine schedules include fear and condescension. I believe we face both of those each time we enter our current pediatrician's office. So today's rant isn't really about our choice to not vaccinate, so much as it is about our right to the choice. And I suppose our pediatrician has a right to her opinions as well, but when it distracts from proper and sensical treatment I have to be weary.

I am terribly upset by the way we were treated today. Not outwardly rude, but passive aggressive. And I really did feel that I was talked down to and my questions were not heard because of the deafening roar of pharmaceutical companies pushing a one-size-fits-all program. I am and always have been open to the advise and expertise from our doctors but when I am made to feel inferior because of my beliefs or choices it is hard to view information unbiased. I wish that a conversation could be had that would open up the floor to both of our points of view and still leave us mutually respecting and agreeing to disagree. But as is the case, it is their practice and their choice. And thus it is our choice to leave. I suppose I shouldn't be so put-out except we specifically had this conversation before Eleanor was born and were reassured that our choices would be respected by this office. And while I can't say they have ever outwardly proclaimed that our choices are irresponsible, that is how they have made me feel. And I certainly don't need anyone other than myself making me feel like a bad mom (as evidenced by Wednesday's post.)

Raising a child and making choices for their life is a tough job. The decisions we make our infinite. What diaper cream to use? What school to send them to? Do we let them cry it out? Should we spank? So many days I find myself looking into Eleanor's eyes and shaking my head, saying "I don't know baby, I just don't know." Parenting is scary and difficult. And making these choices is part of that. Having guidance given by caring individuals is helpful, but being made to feel inferior is not. Ultimately I have to make the choice that is best for my family and right now that choice is to surround myself with supportive individuals. Not "yes" men, but people who will respectfully discuss not just the facts but the emotions and common sense and all the other factors involved in decision making. As a parent I encourage you to find these types of people to surround yourself with as well. I am hoping it will make this parenting job just a little less stressful.

Oatmeal Love

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:30:00 +0000

Here's how my brain is working as I sit here to type out a post:

"Don't talk about sleep issues, don't talk about sleep issues, no one wants to hear about your sleep woes. You've said it enough...they get it. You aren't sleeping. You are not the only mom out there with sleep issues. Let it rest (no pun intended)"

Alas, here I am talking about sleep issues. But seriously, let's talk about something else.

Like coffee--ahem, decaf coffee. I've read the reports. It's not good for you. And the trace amounts of caffeine have no affect on my energy levels at all. Yet somehow, drinking that dark nectar makes me feel human again. I can't quit coffee. Decaf, of course.

Breakfast is my happy place. And if that breakfast is accompanied by a cup of decaf and a glass of OJ it is even happier. My go to breakfasts are french toast, veggie omelets, egg sandwiches and of course oatmeal. I take my time with breakfast, usually eating before Eleanor is awake, or letting her bounce in her chair while I savor each bite. It is a fresh start to the day and helps me to wake up and face it.

While I enjoy french toast or eggs, oatmeal has always been my go-to. I eat it four or more times a week and it never gets old (except when I was pregnant).

my usual oatmeal includes:
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond milk
1/2 cup water
pinch of salt
microwave on medium-high for 3 minutes

stir in:
1/2 mashed banana
2 tablespoons raisins

top with:
1 tablespoon peanut butter

other favorite toppings and stir ins include:
coconut flakes
pumpkin puree
nuts (of any sort)
"baked" apples (which are really just microwaved)
other dried fruit
honey or agave if I don't have bananas to sweeten
ground flax seed
chia seeds

things I hate in my oatmeal:
fresh or frozen fruit of any kind (except apples--and except blueberries-sometimes)
craisins
granola (what's the point it just gets all soggy)
sugar
when I have to make it with all water and no almond/soy milk

best oatmeal discovery:
overnight oats (duh!)

newest oatmeal discovery:
mixing TVP (textured vegetable protein) into my oatmeal. I typically mix in 1/4 cup oats and 1/4 cup TVP for additional protein and you can hardly taste or recognize a difference.

other oatmeal loves:
baked oatmeal--I can make one big casserole and reheat all week for breakfast

By the way...oatmeal is never fun to photograph!

And this is the kind of post you get when I'm trying to think of something other than sleep deprivation!

Sleep Woes

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Wed, 15 May 2013 12:16:00 +0000

"This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." 1 John 5:14 (NAS)

I took this verse straight from my morning devotional with Proverbs 31. In fact, I haven't even finished reading it before I had to open my blog screen to jot down thoughts.

Last night I prayed as I rocked Eleanor at 3am. My prayers were needy and harsh and begging for sleep. I prayed that when I lay her back down that she wouldn't wake up. I prayed and prayed. And then stopped myself. I didn't want to pray that prayer, because I knew she would wake up when I laid her down. If I prayed for it and it didn't come true then I would be even more frustrated, but more than that, my faith in God may dwindle. I was praying for a Genie in a bottle. So I prayed prayers that were easier, less specific. "God grant me patience, that when she wakes up I won't be frustrated." See, there, now if I wasn't patient, I could blame that one on myself, not God.

My prayer life is lacking. My confidence in God is lacking. My confidence in the power of prayer is lacking. Last night I reminded myself that it is alright to pray "Sun Stand Still" prayers (Joshua 10:12) and to have confidence in the Lord and so I prayed mightily that Eleanor would not wake up (for the millionth time) as I lay her down. "Sun Stand Still!" I professed as I placed her down in her crib...

"AAAAaaaaaaahhhhhhhh!" Came the immediate wail. Fail.

I cried silent tears as I patted Eleanor on the back willing her back to sleep. I finally gave up, walked out of the room and threw myself down in bed knowing that Alex would be up to save the day. He has more patience and grace than I could ever muster.

I don't believe there was much sleeping going on for either Alex or Eleanor last night after my surrender. But he kept it to the guest room and the baby room so I could sleep. Now, hours later, I feel like an awful mother because it has become the father's role in our house to be up with the baby. I remind myself, if that works for our house, it is alright. But I feel like a failure as a mom, and I wonder how much it really can be working for Alex. After all, he is the one up past ten grading papers, and up before the sun taking the dog out and getting ready for work. I feel lazy and useless because I can't find the patience to deal with night wakings. It's been six long months since I have slept through the night and I am losing steam.

First Mother's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Mon, 13 May 2013 14:02:00 +0000

I want to stop for a moment to acknowledge my very first Mother's Day. I have much to say, but not m(any) photos to share of the actual day. Not to sound trite, but I just didn't want to stop the day for a moment to capture a photo. Of course I always regret this. Now I wish I had a few snapshots of this beautiful day.

The weather was perfect, the day was wonderful. I woke up a little grumpy--likely sleep deprived. But after church the day pretty much soared. I felt honored and cherished and loved. My phone blew up with text messages from friends wishing me a happy first Mother's Day. Alex showered me with love and sweet gifts. Eleanor was such a good baby all day. And we spent the whole day with friends, other moms and their wonderful families. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. Or a more amazing family.

So here's the run down of our activities on this amazing weekend:

Saturday-

Alex and I woke early to volunteer for the Run Wild 5k. We worked the registration table. I had a really amazing time and it was nice to be hanging out, working with Alex. No baby. We had a babysitter come to the house at 5am! Around 10am we left the 5k and headed to Jetton Park for a quick three mile run. It is only the second time Alex and I have run together since Eleanor was born!

We came back home and I took my second shower of the day, only to get sweaty once again with my first ever mountain bike ride. My friend Jennifer took me out to the state park and we rode three solid miles on windy, rooty trails. (note that I completed all of my workouts this week, including the bonus!) It was short but so much fun. Now I'm torn between a new rode bike or a mountain bike...if I were even in the new bike market (I wish!)

Since there are no photos to show for the day, I will wrap this up quickly. Alex and I headed out to the winery for a glass of wine and a swing on their porch with baby Eleanor. It was a beautiful day and fun to be outside. At home we cooked dinner and ate cupcakes. A perfect day.

After church Sunday, Katie and Adam invited us to lunch with them. We enjoyed Taps' delicious brunch menu and scored a table on the patio to enjoy another day of fine weather. TCBY was offering free frozen yogurt for moms so of course we headed their next. We took Eleanor for a walk and then headed to our friend's home to drink mimosas in the sun. We followed that up with breakfast for dinner (count that...3 breakfasts in one day, wish I had photographs!) and then more time with friends. Tim and Jill brought their kiddos over to play in the yard to savor every last bit of the sunshine. Man I wish I took pictures!

Either way, it was a joyous day. Celebrating all the many moms out there! Of course there is one mom in particular that needs a special shout out today...my own mom! A beautiful, compassionate and caring woman who I respect and adore more and more every day. I will admit, being a mom myself now, I believe I have even more love and respect and adoration for the woman that she is, for the time that she has given me, for love and life. For raising me and teaching me and being there for me. I will never know all the workings of her heart over the years as she cried tears of joy and tears of sadness for us kids, but as a mom now, I can understand a little better. Thank you mom! For everything.

Blur

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Thu, 09 May 2013 14:51:00 +0000

These days are just getting away from me. They are flying by, and if I don't get with it I am going to miss May altogether! Let's chat about this crazy month:

First was Alex's birthday on May 5th. If you were to ask me I would claim there is no way his birthday has already happened. I feel like it was a blur and I blinked and it was over.

Then we celebrated Eleanor's six-month birthday...but I use the word "celebrate" very loosely here, because it also kind of came and went in a blur without any special attention!

Now this week Alex and I are heading up the registration tables at the Run Wild 5k in Huntersville, and on top of that I'm still working hard to plan the Girls on the Run 5k on May 18th. Whew! That is a ton of work!

Eleanor has been a good little helper though, and we are utilizing our babysitter a ton this month!

I have yet to take Eleanor's six-month photos and post a full recap of the last month...but I'm getting there. Perhaps we will tackle it tomorrow now that the sun has decided to come out and play, I can get some good shots.

I will get with the game soon and catch up on all these thoughts running rampant in my brain. But for today...let me just tackle one major to-do. I NEED VOLUNTEERS! Would you like to help us out at the Girls on the Run 5k? Sign up now!

May Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Wed, 08 May 2013 00:53:00 +0000

Because who doesn't love a good challenge?

And because this girl needs to get off her butt...

Here goes:

So the game plan is four weeks along. Call this my pre-training training plan for the triathlon in September. This challenge is meant to get my body used to three different sports each week: swimming, biking, and running.

This is a loosey, goosey kind of plan. No distances, no time goals, just do it. Swim, Bike and Run. Each week. Plus a little strength. If I get in the pool it counts. If I lace up my sneakers and take a few strides it counts. If I sit on a bike...you guessed it, it counts. If I lift a free weight. Yup. It counts. And if I complete a bonus workout...anything else, an extra swim, bike or run...or anything else (except walking...I don't think I will count that) there will be a little treat at the end of the week.

I typically fail at challenges so this month I'm taking it easy on myself with a very loose plan. I am also offering incentives to myself for completing this challenge. Here they are:

Each week, if I complete all 4 workouts and a bonus: I am treating myself to fro-yo on Saturday afternoons.

If I complete every workout (except bonus) for the entire month: (that = 4 workouts a week) the first week in June I am purchasing clip-in pedals and cycle shoes. Woo-hoo! It may not be such a treat when I take them out for their first spin and come crashing to the ground because I don't know how to clip out...but the purchase will be a rather awesome treat!

If I complete every workout + a bonus workout each week: I am also going to purchase a tri-suit so I don't look like such a novice out there at my first triathlon!

Since we are already smack dab in the middle of week one, I should mention I have successfully completed a swim (1000 yards at the Y Monday) and a run (2.5 glorious miles in an impending storm Tuesday night). I am already off to a good start and feeling wonderful about a new fitness regiment.

The plan the rest of the week includes a rest day tomorrow, then I will hit up a cycle class at the gym on Thursday afternoon and a strength class Friday morning. Then on Saturday, after the 5k I'm volunteering at, maybe I'll be inspired to run a 5k as well. We'll see! I really want that tri-suit. Or maybe some of my buddies will take me mountain biking for the first time ever! (If it ever quits raining!)

Would you like to take the May Challenge with me? Or at least follow along to help hold me accountable? And don't forget, I'm looking for friends to participate in the Ramblin' Rose Charlotte event in September! Let me know if you are interested.

Birthday Boy

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Mon, 06 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Here's a post full of photos, and I'm not even going to talk about Eleanor once. I promise. This post is all about the handsome man behind the baby. My husband. Alex turned 32 yesterday. And this post is all about him!

I should mention first though, that all these photos are compliments of the beautiful, talented Whitney! Check her out for your family photos too! She did such a wonderful job!

Back to this guy...

Birthday celebrations for us haven't been as glam as years past. Yesterday we celebrated Alex'a 32nd year with church, lunch with his mom, and then he had class at church. Not very celebratory, but it was a nice family day. Sometimes it is just a focus on one another that makes the difference, not what you do.

Lately my focus has been all over the place. Work, Eleanor, Money (bleh!). I don't spend as much time thinking about Alex like I used to. So yesterday, despite being tired and worn down, I made sure to put him first all day. I shut the computer. I looked him in the eyes. I made him coffee and breakfast. Little things. I wish I would be more intentional every day because our connection is so much better when I put him first.

I am so incredibly thankful for Alex in my life. I am so blessed to be his wife. I am not sure how I was ever so lucky. He is patient and kind and helpful. He is strong, and faithful and loving. He believes, he worships and he praises. He is an amazing dad, playful and fun with Eleanor. And also so involved and generous with her. He is a great dog-owner. It's true. He makes sure Penny is well-taken care of and spoiled and I admire that. And he is the best husband. He makes sure I get plenty of "me" time, he takes care of me, he is selfless and he honors our marriage. I could say so many things about him, but the best of all is that he loves me. He cherishes me. He makes me feel like the most special woman in the whole world. He is wonderful.

He is also super funny, fun to be around, and unique. And I wouldn't trade a single day with him for anything in this world. Thank you Alex, for being my man and Happy Birthday! I love you!

Ramblin' Rose Blogger Ambassador

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Fri, 03 May 2013 10:54:00 +0000

I have really fun and exciting news to share with you today! I have been invited to participate in the Ramblin' Rose series as a blogger ambassador, and I couldn't be more thrilled. And here's why:

I need to just do this triathlon thing already (and quit talking about it!)
I couldn't be more in love with the Ramblin' Rose series and the men and women who develop and plan the events.
It celebrates the empowerment of women...a cause I believe in so deeply that it drives my career.
And with a race on my calendar hopefully I will find some motivation to be active

So what does all this mean? I will be competing in the Ramblin' Rose Charlotte event on September 22, 2013. Ramblin' Rose is sponsoring my race entry, yes. But trust me, I would only have amazing things to say about them either way. If you are not local, or maybe just hiding under a cloud somewhere, Ramblin' Rose produces events for women that inspire and empower families. The triathlon was their flagship event and now have expanded to half marathons also all around North Carolina.

I attempted to run their very first half marathon in Raleigh-Durham in 2011 but came down with an intense cold. Alex and I spectated and cheered on all the women on the course. It wasn't quite as amazing as participating, however, and I have been wanting to run a Ramblin' Rose event ever since.

I am so excited this will be my very first triathlon. It is a mini-Sprint Triathlon consisting of a 250 meter pool swim, 9 mile bike ride and 2 mile run. The shorter distances will give me an opportunity to adjust to the transitions and multi-sport event.

Of course now that I'm officially signed up I have a million questions: what training plan should I use? What should I wear? Will my ole' bike make it through a season of training? I am for sure nervous, but also excited. Thankfully I have time on my side...143 days to be exact (that's 20 weeks).

Lately my fitness routine has been very lackluster. I did make it for one 3-mile jog with baby this week and yesterday I mustered a cycle class. It wasn't pretty. I think having a race on the calendar is going to help me jump start my engines and get back into things. I really miss being more active and being a regular in the race scene. It is like a super-secret club and I'm anxious to be back in. The triathletes club seems even cooler and even more exclusive so I'm really eager to be initiated!

Does anyone want to sign up and do this race with me? I could use a few training partners out there...folks to hold me accountable! Honestly, I have been to so many Ramblin' Rose events as a spectator and there is nothing quite like the spirit of accomplishment that is seen here. It reminds me so much of the amazing girl spirit present at our Girls on the Run 5ks. It is an awesome choice for a first triathlon, or a race to do with your girlfriends. I am so excited and hope many of you will join me.

Did I also mention that I work closely with some of the men and women who produce this race. They also run the site SportOften and host our Girls on the Run program and 5k registrations. They are some of the most awesome people I know and I am thrilled to support them and their amazing events!

Munchkin Meals

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Thu, 02 May 2013 13:26:00 +0000

I know I've been talking an awful lot this week about Eleanor and food. It is just really exciting for me to watch her grow and explore in this way, because duh, I'm a foodie. My little foodie baby is all about eating solids and I am so excited that we were introduced to Baby Led Weaning by none other than the host of Munchkin Meals. So today I am anxious to post our very first edition Eleanor's Munchkin Meals on the link up. If this is not making any sense to you, click on over to Brittany's blog and join in the party. And read below for details about how we are using Baby Led Weaning to start Eleanor on solid foods.

I love that Eleanor's very first food was at the beach (Thursday, April 25th). I had this grandiose plan to start with sweet potatoes in the evening on her six month birthday while Alex and I were both home and sitting at the table with her...blah, blah blah. Yeah, so the ripe banana was in my hand and Eleanor was eyeing it. And the rest is history. She loves food!

So we went for the sweet potatoes second (Saturday, April 27)...still 9 days shy of her six month birthday. These were actually a bit of a fail. Turns out smaller doesn't equal better with Baby Led Weaning (BLW). She needed something to get her hands around. These just mushed into her hands and flopped over.

She didn't eat much...but not for lack of trying.

Her next food was a strawberry (Sunday, April 29). This was out of pure convenience. Alex's mom bought us strawberries so they were in the fridge. We were cooking breakfast and making coffee before church. It seemed like a good fit. I stuck her in the high chair in the kitchen. Handed her a strawberry with the top cut off and sliced in half. Perfect.

Strawberries hold up her in hands, they don't mush too much, and there is still enough sticking out from her little fist for her to fit in her mouth. She loved it!

The next day we went back to the banana. It doesn't work so well without the peel. It just got slimy and mushed in her hand. I'm not sure if any made it into her mouth.

But she sure had fun trying!

In fact, together I thing BLW is the most fun thing Eleanor and I have done. Swinging comes in a close second though.

I love this happy face. I love watching her explore her food. Making a mess. Cheering her on. I can cook in the kitchen while she's munching on food. I even set my computer up on the counter to check emails while I'm simultaneously scooping banana pieces from her diaper and back on her tray.

To think that solid foods could be a struggle with spoon feeding, crying baby and frustrated mom. That is definitely not the case in our house. I am a true believer of Baby Led Weaning. It allows Eleanor to go at her own pace while keeping it fun and exciting. There is no force feeding and no fuss.

After she eats I just scoop her up and toss her straight into the tub for a quick rinse.

Yesterday we tried cucumber for the first time.

She's already a pro at double-fisting! I liked the cucumbers because they stood up to her grip, she could gnaw away at them and it didn't create as big of a mess. She didn't eat as much because it doesn't mush in her mouth, and I watched her a little more carefully to make sure she wouldn't choke. But she was entertained by those two little pieces for the better part of an hour.

Of course I gave her some strawberries to work with as well!

Currently we do not have a set schedule of when she eats. I may try to instill a "breakfast" and "dinner" time in the next couple of weeks, but right now we are just exploring. We are also adjusting to how the foods are affecting her body. Yesterday she was having a rough time with her stomach. Almost every diaper was a "stinky" and she developed a little bit of a diaper rash...either from the citrus in the strawberries, or just from so many poos. We may let off the strawberries for a bit, focus on more veggies this week and see how it improves. I know her digestive system is going to need time to readjust so we are just taking it one day at a time.

Baby Led Weaning Notes:

We are trying to introduce one food at a time to make sure she doesn't have any allergies. Some reports recommend one food every three or so days. We are basically doing one food every day, but skipping some days in between as well (not on purpose).
We do not help her eat at all. We just simply put food on her tray and let her explore. If it gets in her mouth, great! If not, oh well.
Other foods we are anxious to try: avocado, steamed carrots, peeled summer squash and zucchini and tofu. Any other suggestions for first foods?

What We Ate Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Wed, 01 May 2013 11:45:00 +0000

Since the only day I have successfully photograph food was more than a week ago, I think I will share that...it doesn't hurt that it was a day at the beach! I will relive that at any old time.

Breakfast started with an egg and veggie scramble, topped with avocado and a slice of homemade bread as toast. I am certain I had 6 cups of decaf to accompany this meal.

I also enjoyed a flooded bowl of granola and banana alongside. I made a pumpkin pie spice granola with pepitas for the beach. The flavor doesn't fit the scenery, but it was still amazing! While I brought it along for everyone, I'm certain I am the only one who ate it...all 6 cups of it!

For lunch we tossed together leftover pasta salad with fresh hard-boiled eggs and bread on the side. I promise there were veggies in that bowl. I also had a delicious pear on the side and these:

A Lime-A-Rita for the win and those amazing Everything flavored pretzel crisps. They are my favorite chip. Oh how I love the beach and drinking at noon!

While at the beach we never ate out. We enjoyed using the well-stocked kitchen to cook breakfasts, lunch and dinners. We headed home after a few more hours of soaking up the sun and stopped in Charlotte on the way home for a quick bite to eat. Lucky for us Bean was right on the way and we enjoyed a vegan feast!

We shared the "Crabby Dip" to start and was underwhelmed. However, Alex's burger and my BBQ sandwich were both to die for. Eleanor was jealous and kept reaching for ours!

None for her that night! But here's a view at what she has been devouring!

Sweet potatoes were a big hit, but I need to cut them up fatter for her so she can grasp them better.

The girl loves her strawberries and cannot get enough!

I am happy to indulge her. Of course our bath count for the week has gone way up!

She has also tried banana again and loves it, but can't get the slimy thing to stay in her hands. I may have to try to give it to her with the peel still on the bottom part and just watch her carefully.

It has been so much fun to watch her eat. It is definitely a treat for us! And I am pro-Baby Led Weaning all the way. No work for me, all fun for her!

Mornings and Fitness

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:21:00 +0000

Without getting into too much detail (I only have about 10 minutes to post), I will say that fitness, and even healthy eating has taken a serious backseat in my life. We still eat really healthy meals, but our snacks are lacking. They are carb heavy and loaded with sugar, AKA cookies, cake, bread, peanut butter.

Fitness--well I have every excuse in the book. The best one is clearly Eleanor. She wakes up and naps 90 minutes later. That leaves my morning window of opportunity very small. And I'm just not an afternoon exerciser. Or an evening one for that matter. I like our little schedule at home and hate to mess it up, so the gym is typically out of the question in the mornings. What's a girl to do?

Bust out the jogging stroggler (or you know, my Britax, because I don't have a real and fancy jogging stroller).

Boy you know this jogging stroller business is no joke. That is some serious hardwork. It could make even the best runner want to quit I'm certain. So I hate it. But I also love it. Because I get to do it with Eleanor and she keeps me company. When she starts to fuss, it is like I get to encourage her across the finish line which also keeps me going.

This morning we darted out right after she woke up and I nursed her. This is her happiest part of the day, so while I missed our face time, I thought it was my best chance to get three solid miles in. She whined a little, but it was a success. They were three very slow miles-- my giant breakfast of french toast was not doing me any favors. But I accomplished them. Ahem, I mean we accomplished them.

Eleanor doesn't seem to mind being in the stroller, but she does get burnt out quickly. She likes to see faces and can't interact while in the stroller facing out. Prior to this morning we have not made it more than a mile and a half together, so I am super, duper proud of her.

We rushed back home, I nursed her, and she is down for her regularly scheduled morning nap. I don't think this will work for us every morning, but maybe if I can incorporate it once a week it will leave me feeling better about my lack of fitness in general.

Today I conquered my workout. I will worry about tomorrow when it gets here.

First Foods

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:42:00 +0000

When people ask me how old Eleanor is I always answer "Six Months." I've been saying this for weeks although technically she still has one more week to go. I don't know why I am so anxious for her to reach this milestone...perhaps because she really is growing and changing so rapidly.

Six months is a big deal. I can't believe that Eleanor has been here for almost half a year. These months have been so much fun. Watching Eleanor grow and change has been amazing. I know every mom feels that she is just the luckiest lady to watch her child grow up, and so do I. It makes me feel so special.

While I have embraced and loved every single stage of Eleanor's development, I have been looking forward to one thing the most. I like watching her roll over and even attempting to crawl, but I am really anxious to watch her eat foods. So anxious that I could hardly help myself when I had a half of a banana lurking around the kitchen on Thursday at the beach.

This was not the plan. We were intending to wait until exactly six months. I wanted her first taste of food to be sweet potato. But that cute little face was begging for a taste and she loved every bit of it!

I promise.

Our plan for food is Baby Led Weaning. This is a fancy, cheesy name for letting your baby eat regular foods. Of course it has to be done within reason, but there is very little restriction on what babies can eat. We don't intend to get particular with certain foods. Many people decide to hold off on foods that are considered high-allergens. Typically eggs, peanuts and soy are found on this list. I think we will plunge forward with all three of these foods within the first couple months. Of course sweet potatoes are high on our first foods list.

Obviously tortilla chips aren't on the list. She is so interested in what we are eating. It makes me think twice about what I order or cook because soon I will be feeding her off my plate regularly.

Please mom!

We will probably wait until she's six months old (8 more days) before we give her much more solid foods (this is not true...as of publishing she has already enjoyed sweet potatoes and strawberries, whoops!), but we can definitely tell she is ready. She is so into what is going on while we are eating. She is stalking our cups and food and mouthing chewing motions. She is so cute and I can't wait to see her fully covered in crumbs and mushed up food!

I am so excited for this new stage of development. It gives us something really fun to do every single day. This is an adventure I am ready to embark on.

Fun in the Sun

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 17:11:00 +0000

We are home, and back to the grind. Today I am plowing through work. But I wanted to take a moment and share some of the excitement from our beach trip. This wasn't just Andy and Brittany and Matthew's first time...it was Eleanor's too!

The verdict: Not so good. She hated the chilly water and wasn't too fond of the sand. She had a much better time chilling in the shade practicing her tricks. She has sitting up mastered.

Her new trick:

She can now push up onto her hands and knees for just a few seconds before belly-flopping back down. She grunts as she pushes up. It is such hard work. I am so proud of her. It is amazing how something so seemingly simple as crawling can elicit such pride in a mom and dad.

I was relegated to the shade as official baby-watcher while Alex and Andy played in the surf. I don't have many tan lines to speak of from this trip. But watching Eleanor take it all in was well worth the sacrifice.

We spent all day under the shade of the tent, relaxing, playing, and laughing.

Watching children enjoy the beach for the very first time is priceless!

While Eleanor hated the chill of the ocean water, we really thought she would enjoy the heated pool. She loves baths so this was a no-brainer.

Clearly she wasn't enjoying it. I guess it was still a little too cold for her. Since then she has cried through every bath we have given her too. I hope we haven't scared her away from water for good!

After a long day on the beach we took a walk to a nearby park. Eleanor loves swings, so we let her enjoy this one for a long time, making up for all the sand and water torture from earlier in the day.

We are so very fortunate to be able to take a mid-week break like this one, enjoy time with good friends and rejuvenate. When Alex went back to work today it was like a sigh of relief knowing that he only had to work today and then we have the weekend to regroup. I can't wait for the summer and many more fun days like these!

Thanks Andy and Brittany for visiting and giving us an excuse to hit the beach!

Beach Bodies

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 15:34:00 +0000

Let's talk for just a minute about how I rocked a bikini yesterday six months post-partum. As I packed my bags for the beach I was a little hesitant...but instead of dwelling on all my many imperfections, I decided to have fun and not think about it. I never once worried about the extra rolls that formed as I bent over to change a diaper or swing Eleanor in the air. I didn't even blink an eye when the cameras were being snapped. Instead, I walked away from our day on the beach with confidence and joy in my little family. Life is too short. I know that it is easier said than done. But I did it. And I feel proud. (It doesn't hurt that everyone is really staring at the cute baby in the photos and not the way my swim suit is hugging my curves.)

Our mini beach trip was so much fun. I have a ton more photos to share soon! Until then, I'm off to enjoy another day on the sand!

Beach Days

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:44:00 +0000

Unbeknownst to me, I accompanied Andy and Brittany and Matthew to the beach for the very first time ever.

No, not just Matthew's very first time ever...but Andy and Brittany's as well!

They are enthralled and we are having a blast with them! I am so excited we get to be here with them.

And we get to stay in this amazing condo while we are here! I think I did good for their first time to the beach. What an amazing trip. Now off to play some more!

Five Things

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 01:08:00 +0000

I'm busy. No, I'm not "glorifying" busy. I'm busy with the life's good things: friends, baking, baby-care, and more. While I'm on hiatus enjoying time with some of my best friends who are in town visiting I wanted to leave you with a quick little post...

Five Things I'm Loving Lately

1. Homemade Bread

Jenna passed off a bit of her starter to me last week and every 3-6 days it needs to be fed and I have to bake off bread. It makes two very large loafs and we are digging the fresh sourdough bread each week. I am hope I can keep this up because it is a deliciously fun hobby!

2. Exploring New Places in my very own town

Because Andy and Brittany are in town we are running around finding fun things for the kiddos. Together we discovered Lazy 5 Ranch and the Discovery Place Kids Museum. So much fun! These are places I probably wouldn't go on my own, but with friends visiting it is like exploring my own town as a tourist.

3. My neighbors and their love for baking.

Twice this week they have brought over a stack of fresh, homemade cookies. We have just recently started making friends with our surrounding neighbors and are so blessed with friendly folks. Our next door neighbors invited us over for a BBQ last weekend, and now all these cookies!

4. Eating Out.

I love cooking at home too. But I really enjoy eating out. With friends in town there is no guilt in grabbing lunch out each day.

5. Eleanor.

Well, duh. She is amazing. This week has been so full of fun surprises. She is now sitting up on her own and it opens up a new world for both of us...including high chairs at restaurants (see #4).

Dinner with Friends

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 19:59:00 +0000

Something Alex and I make a point of doing fairly often is having friends over for dinner. We love to cook, we love to share food, we love to eat, we love to visit with people. It all adds up. Hosting dinner "parties" can be a ton of fun, but it can also be a ton of work. The extra work in a day can equal extra stress, exhaustion and sometimes even grumpiness. When we are busy every night of the week I can tend to be cranky and need some "me" time to regroup. But hosting dinner for friends shouldn't cause extra stress and tension, it should release it as you sip wine with loved ones and chat about lives, God, family and more. So how do we do it? How can it be effortless, and not just look effortless? Here are things I consider:

1. Make a meal that is easy to prep in advance. Lasagna, stuffed peppers (on the menu tonight), pasta salad, casserole, soup etc. Do all the prep work before, throw it in the oven and set the timer and relax until your friends arrive.

2. Along those lines, cook something easy and probably something that you have made a dozen times before. It doesn't have to be gourmet...just good. Most people like your traditional home cooked meals. Keep it simple.

3. Consider allergies and food preferences in advance. While Alex and I eat vegan most of the time, I will venture out into the meat and dairy land, while Alex doesn't touch it. It means so much to us when someone will go out of their way to prepare a meal with us in mind. When you invite your friends over a simple "Is there anything you just absolutely don't like?" Then you know you are in the clear.

4. Don't clean your house. It doesn't matter. Do you think their house is currently spotless? Nope. So pick one or two things you can control, and forget about the rest. Usually I don't bother with floors. They are just going to get more dirty. But I will clean the toilet bowl and wipe down the sink (or ask Alex to). In the end, it is the conversation that counts, the fellowship with friends and the relationships. If you wait to have a perfectly clean house, you will never wind up hosting that dinner and will miss out on the opportunity to grow in your relationships.

5. Don't be afraid to make it a potluck. We like to host (it is easier with Eleanor) but our friends don't mind contributing to the meal. When they ask "What can we bring?" it is safe to say just yourselves the first time. The next time they get to bring the salad and the bread.

Last night our dear friends Ben and Brittney hosted us for dinner. Taking in two (semi) vegans can be a daunting task. But they met the challenge and served a delicious bow-tie pasta salad with York Peppermint Patty brownies for dessert. Alex and I contributed a loaf of the sourdough bread we made this week. Dinner was wonderful. But what was even better was spending time with Ben and Brittney. In just the few short months we have known them they have become some of our best friends. And I think it is largely in part that none of us are scared to make the effort.

I received a devotional from Proverbs 31 this morning about friendship. I quote:

Friendship is risky. To be known is to risk being hurt. But friendship can be beautiful, and worth the risk.

There are so many examples of friendship in the bible. I know God created friends to help us through this life. By meeting and eating together we invest in our friendships and also in Christ. In the bible Acts describes the early church saying:

Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts. --Acts 2:46

So tonight we are now hosting a dinner party for Kay and Toby who have just returned from Mwandi. I did actually choose to mop the floors for this dinner (only because they were SO.BAD.) and I made Brittany's Fiesta Stuffed Peppers (using vegan meat and cheese) so they are ready to pop in the oven when our guests arrive. They are bringing the salad and wine and it will be a fun night of catching up!

Do you host friends for dinner? Does it make you nervous/overwhelmed?

WIAW-Sourdough Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:20:00 +0000

Good morning and happy Wednesday! I remembered to snap photos of all my food yesterday...so today you get What I Ate Wednesday.

Breakfast was inspired by the leftover yogurt dip in the fridge. "Hmmm, what can I put that on?" French Toast. Two slices whole wheat bread dipped in a mixture of egg, almond milk, cinnamon and vanilla, and grilled to perfection on the stove. Topped with fruit and yogurt dip.

Coffee on the side. I know it's decaf, but it makes me feel human.

Lunch could not come quick enough. By 11:30am I was throwing together this salad. Spring mix topped with quinoa and cooked beans, broccoli and guacamole, and drizzled with balsamic vinegar. I was nervous about beans and broccoli, but Eleanor didn't seem to mind at all.

The salad wasn't nearly enough to stave off my appetite so minutes later I went back for more yogurt dip.

Served with a sliced banana. Yumm!

In the afternoon I was out cold calling. Ugh! So I rewarded myself with not one, but two chocolates taken from separate offices.

Meanwhile at home I had two loaves of sourdough rising. Oooh, I couldn't wait to get my hands on these so I kept putting off my afternoon snack until nearly five when they were done baking.

Perfection! We could hardly wait for it to cool long enough to slice into and slather with butter.

Slice number two was served alongside our Strawberry Salads.

While Eleanor sat alongside us in her high chair for the FIRST.TIME.EVER.

She didn't love. Just a few more weeks and I will be filling that tray with goodies for her to stick in her mouth too!

Dessert was (you guessed it!) the last of the yogurt dip with leftover strawberries from dinner and toasted almonds and coconut.

And another cup of decaf with a piece of chocolate.

It was a delicious day! Now I'm off to inhale more bread!

Making Bread

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:13:00 +0000

Yesterday I hosted a play group at my house. With five pretty little girls, we all had so much fun! Bekah brought the most wonderful snack:

Yogurt parfaits, only she made the yogurt especially yummy with cinnamon and honey and a bit of whip cream.

The moms snacked and chatted and the girls played. This is becoming a regular play group for me and I love it so much. I have been trying hard since Eleanor was born to put a mom's group together with my friends and finally feel like I have what I've been looking for!

Well, hello there Miss Harper! So good to see you sitting up all by yourself!

We had a very fun morning.

Jenna brought me over a special little project.

I would have never been able to guess what it is either...Sourdough Starter. So as we speak, I have two loaves of homemade sourdough bread rising in the kitchen. Wish me luck!

Have a wonderful Tuesday friends!

Five Months Old

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:36:00 +0000

I feel pretty good about only being seven days late on this post. I considered giving up the monthly photos altogether. It turns out, I am not a talented photographer. I get frustrated very easily behind the camera. Alas, once I'm done taking the photos, I am so thankful I have them. Remind me that on May 6th when I'm once again cursing the camera lens! Although, my frustration nearly got me a new camera today. Maybe next month.

Enough complaining...let's talk BABY!

Some days I have a hard time calling her my baby. She just seems like such a big girl. Truthfully she is a big girl. One of the biggest babies I know. When we are asked how old she is we get a very funny look when I say "five months." I think folks expect her to be much older!

We've had a ton of fun with Eleanor this month. She is growing and changing every day. While last month we announced she rolled over just once, this month we can't keep her from rolling around! It makes our photo shoots even more difficult!

I can no longer leave her laying on her changing table for even a second. The time is coming when she is going to attempt rolling right off. When we lay her on her play mat it only takes seconds for her to scoot herself around in circles and right off the mat. She likes to roll from her back to her stomach best, but can roll from her stomach to her back as well. And low and behold...she actually loves tummy time nowadays! She pushes herself up so far off the mat, and scootches her legs up...it won't be long before she figures out how to crawl!

Everything belongs in Eleanor's mouth. If it's close enough, it's going in! Our fingers, her fingers, the cup, the table, my hair, the toys, you name it.

With her fingers in her mouth she also makes "kissy" noises, mimicking the noises that Alex and I make to her. It is really sweet and we say in a sing-song voice "Are you kissing, kiss, kiss, kiss!"

This month has literally flown by (and as I type this we are already half-way through April!) I can't imagine that she will be six months old in just a few short weeks! Where does the time go? Soon she will be eating solids and sitting up on her own! For now she sits up pretty well, just with assistance.

That smile brings so much joy into our lives each and every day. I truly cannot get enough of it. Some days are harder than others, but when I lean over the crib as she wakes up from a long nap and see her recognize her momma and smile big and then turn away in a coy, shy gesture, my heart just melts. I realize just how blessed I am!

Speaking of napping, we struggled so much with sleep between four and five months. She busted out of her swaddle which made sleep very difficult. She would wake herself up so often that all her naps became 20-30 minutes long. At night we struggled putting her down and keeping her asleep. Many nights we were up every hour.

Throughout the month we have sought advice from books, articles, websites, blogs, and friends. We have had many trials and errors. We have found several things that work well for us: Merlin's Magic Sleep Suit and (dun, dun, dun) Crying It Out. Uggh...the ugliest 3 words ever! However, I am a convert (almost). I don't think it would work for every child and every parent. It's hard. It's one of the hardest things I've ever done. But as I mentioned above, when she wakes up from that glorious two hour nap, well rested and with a smile on her face, you can't help but wonder if "self-soothing" isn't such a bad thing after all.

We did many exciting things this month including a trip to the mountains for Spring Break. We went on a hike and Eleanor got to ride in the Ergo on my back for the first time. We enjoyed a visit from my dear friend Angie this month and we celebrated Easter with church and dinner with Vovvy and Grandpa Ron. We have started regular play dates with some of our friends and I even took Eleanor running in the stroller for the first time (spoiler...she didn't love it!) It has been a fun and very full month.

And we have loved every minute of it (ok, well except the 2am wakings!)

She is absolutely my favorite! And I tell her that every single day. And then I correct myself and say "You are my favorite little, and your daddy is my favorite big." I must clarify. You can have two favorites!

And just for fun, Penny wanted you to know that she is also Five Months Old!

One Month to Five Months

I love watching her grow!

Presently

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 01:38:00 +0000

Do you ever sit around observing the separate pieces of your life and know that in some great way they are all going to come together and make sense in a perfect plan?

I do.

I see the conviction and passion that leads our home. I see the changes in our church. The new friends we've made. I see our past and the places we've been. I feel the certainty that we are right where God wants us right now. I look ahead at the challenges and opportunities before us. And I wait for it all to come together. It is both frustrating and exhilarating.

I want it all right now. I want to know where we are headed. But then I also remember that the present is where we are now and where we need to focus. What is around us? What can we do today?

I feel convicted that as I sit here and wait on the future I am floundering in the present. I am too anxious to move on that I miss out on life. Each time I begin to complain about complacency or a redundant life, I realize how amazing it all really is.

I have a wonderful God who loves me for me.

I have a husband who is faithful to God, to me, to his daughter, to his dog.

I have a daughter who brings joy into every moment.

I have a job--scratch that-- a career-- that is so fulfilling and not only that, but it is flexible and allows me the opportunity to be at home with my baby, but also interact with adults each and every day.

I have a babysitter that is flexible and generous and loving and caring. That is something not everyone has and I am very fortunate.

I have wonderful friends. I can be myself and speak openly and without fear of being me. I am encouraged and kept accountable and loved.

I have an amazing extended family with sisters and brothers and moms and dads who love me and who I love.

I have a great church which teaches the Word of God with truth and passion.

And there's more. Our fellowship group, Morning Grace, the gym (that I should visit more often), our amazing community and neighborhood. And while it all exists already in my life there is so much opportunity in each of these amazing gifts God has given me. I have the opportunity to know God better. To be a better wife. A better mom. A better daughter, sister, friend, employee and servant of Christ Jesus. While I am always looking ahead at the future, their is so much potential right here in the present.

Where will I go? Physically, no where. At least not for a while. But spiritually, mentally, emotionally-- I have quite the journey ahead of me.

Insert obligatory cute baby photos:

Speaking of amazing friends, after Morning Grace I had lunch with two friends and their dear babies. We haven't seen Vanessa and Garret in several months and look how big he is! Such a fun day!

Wednesday Ramblings

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:55:00 +0000

Baby girl turned five months old this weekend! She is getting so big. I really need to focus and get her five month photos done. It's the goal for tomorrow.

Baby shoes are the cutest...even if they never stay on. These are the only ones that last longer than 30 seconds. Even as I write that, I am so thankful for this deliriously warm weather so my baby can go barefoot. The only way to be! No more socks.

This week I am stressed. I feel like I am not giving 100% to anything in my life. I really need to focus a little better and prioritize. Work has been pulled right to the top, but working out is at the very bottom. In between is everything else. While family always comes first, work is definitely taking a precedence right now. This morning as I lay in bed at 4:45am, I contemplated getting up for cycle class. Then came the realization that sleep>working out. I would be doing everyone a disservice by pulling myself out of bed that early.

I have a hard time prioritzing, but it does seem pretty easy to decide between two commitments. Last night spending time with my family and giving Alex my attention won over attending a meeting.

Alex > meetings (most of the time)

Rather than shower yesterday afternoon I opted to fix dinner

Food > Cleanliness :)

I was finishing up Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers yesterday and it seemed to consume all of me until I turned that final page. It has been so long since I have read fiction!

Reading > Everything

Check out that bald spot! And that booty! Eleanor just keeps getting bigger and stronger. She is so squirmy on the mat. She cannot wait to crawl! I can. Notice that outlet right above her without a cover...baby proofing might need to start soon.

It's midweek and I am already ready for the weekend. Really, I'm just ready for Thursday. Thursdays are my favorite. Essentially a day-off for me. I enjoy bible study in the morning while Eleanor plays at child care and then we typically have lunch with friends and walk around Birkdale. By the time we get home it is almost time for Alex to come home from work. It is wonderful.

You know what else is wonderful? Having two cars. Bam!

Have a great Wednesday!

What are some priorities in your life right now?

Spring Break 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya Kummerow) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:53:00 +0000

Sorry for the brief hiatus... I was too busy enjoying family and friend time.

This may be my very first vacation without my laptop since I started blogging. And it felt Oh.So.Good. I was unplugged and relaxed.

Alex and I headed to the mountains for a vacation during his Easter Break. Our friends Jenna and Mike and their two precious girls joined us at the end of the week and we enjoyed cooking, sipping wine, playing cards and hiking together. This trip was much needed. I feel refreshed. Here are some highlights:

Urban hiking in Boone on Wednesday. We started our trip off with a walk around Appalachian State campus and downtown Boone. We grabbed coffees and cookies at Stick Boy and did grocery shopping for the week at the cabin. The sun was out and the weather was relatively mild. We knew the weather was supposed to be rainy and cold the rest of the weekend, so we really took advantage of the sun.

Lots of car riding for Eleanor. She did so great. Except when we got on the gravel road toward the top of the mountain. I didn't know if it was the bumps or the elevation but she was not happy every single time.

Vacation drinks...his and hers. Or well, hers and his. I fully loaded up on diet colas on this trip, and Alex enjoyed a cocktail. The rest of the time we sipped wine and craft beers we picked up in Boone.

On Thursday I camped out at the cabin all day. It was cold and rainy and I had no where I wanted to go. Alex's only venture was to return a video to Blockbuster and meet the Worsham's at the bottom of the mountain. They arrived right before the snow started. I was so glad everyone made it up the mountain and down the driveway safely before it hit. We got less than an inch, but it was so pretty to look at!

Friday we decided to venture out into the gloom of the morning. We made our way to Elk River Falls to enjoy this beautiful view:

As we made our way back toward Banner Elk, the clouds parted and sun shone. We stopped at Beech Mountain for some fun shopping and then played in the park in Banner Elk. We were just so happy to be out in the sun.

Saturday we woke to perfect sunny weather. The temperatures were mild so we set out for a big family walk.

We hiked Price Park Lake Loop, about two and a half miles. This was Eleanor's first time in the Ergo on my back and she loved it! She cooed for the first bit and then slept the rest of the way.

Our hike ramped our appetites so we stopped at a favorite: Coyote Kitchen.

Eleanor had a hard time deciding what to order! And so did I. I finally went with something new and got a sandwich melt. It was wonderful!

Our evenings at the cabin consisted of cooking, sipping wine, reading and playing games. It was such a fun and relaxing weekend and I am so happy we had this down time. I really needed it! Thank you Susan and Dr. Russ for letting us use the cabin! And thank you Worsham's for joining us and making our trip memorable!

We're back home and I'm ready to face the week! I am going to be very busy with work as we are getting closer and closer to the 5k!