Growing Sound Roots

Eight Month Old Baby Micah

2013-05-23T21:38:00.002-07:00

This month Micah:

began kissing Mommy with wet slobbery open mouth "kisses" when she picked him up for work (and for the first time this evening at bedtime!)
continued to tummy crawl everywhere and super quickly
started to sit himself up from his tummy crawl and is really good (and fast) at it
enjoyed lots more time with his Gramma Nanny taking almost daily walks, playing with toys, reading books, and going to his Baby Genius class each week
started to enjoy lullaby music a lot
Traveled to Suncadia for a weekend for Mommy's big 30th birthday (and enjoyed more time with both Grandmothers)
Spent time with Nana and Papa while Mommy and Daddy worked in the garage for a whole weekend
Is starting to try to pull himself up to standing (first successful time happened just tonight!)
got his second cold with a super runny nose and now even a cough
went for his second hike in the woods
took good care of Mommy on her first Mother's Day by letting Daddy take care of him
continued to wake up often during the night, but started nursing less at night
continued to show disgust at the taste of solid foods.

Always crawling now

Tug of war with Charlie

Starting to stand himself up!

Brotherly love ;-)

look at those two teeth!

Reunited with his Papa!

The Remodel's Almost done, right?

2013-05-20T22:16:00.001-07:00

Wrong! While we have made huge amounts of progress, especially in only 18 months or so, we still have a huge to do list. Luckily, Phil's burnout didn't last too long and over the Xmas to NewYears time off from work he began to tackle our ginormous to-do list. Then, finally, we decided to hire out so that Phil could enjoy his weekends with myself and Micah and not slave away on our house. In true Young House Love fashion (my favorite blog!), here is our "Dude, Get on that!" list:

Living Room:

~~Paint entry bench~~
Hang hooks on entry wall
~~Crown molding on the chimney~~
Clear coat the chimney
~~Create faux mantel and fireplace (sheet rock and mantel)~~
~~Sand, prime,~~ and paint ikea hacked bookshelves
~~Trim bookshelves~~
~~Paint trim~~
~~Quarterround on floor trim~~
Baskets for shoes
Hooks for keys
National Parks art on entry wall
Family photos up and decorate shelves
New couch
New rug

Kitchen:

~~Crown molding~~
Paint touch up on walls
~~Create countertop fix for sides of the oven~~
~~Purchase and install new microwave~~
Cut out and devise a cabinet door for space under the microwave
~~Install kitchenaid mixer lift stand~~
~~Add final soft closes and handle pulls to the cabinets~~
Fix blind corner storage
~~Create mini command center~~
Purchase and install beverage coolers (wine & beer)
~~Trim windows~~
~~Paint trim~~
~~Build kitchen nook seats~~
~~Install under cabinet lights~~
Paint nook seats
Create nook seat cushions
Purchase new table and chair
Purchase stools for the island

Laundry:

~~Install laminate on the floor~~
Create countertop
Add cabinets/shelving and small pole to hang dry clothes
~~Doors~~

Pantry:

~~Shelving~~
Better dry goods storage containers
Organize pantry goods
Paint or wallpaper ?

Master Bathroom:

Scrub seal off tile
~~Install pocket doors~~
Install closet doors
~~Trim~~
~~Paint trim~~
Pocket door handles
Install Transitions

Master Bedroom:

~~Trim windows~~
~~Paint trim~~
Entertainment center and corner storage unit
Gallery Wall of photos in hallway
~~Sconce lights~~
door stoppers

Guest Room:

~~New doors~~
~~Install door handles~~
~~Trim~~
~~Paint trim~~

Micah's Room:

~~New doors~~
~~Install door handles~~
~~Trim~~
~~Paint Trim~~

Front Hallway

~~Rip out old built in drawers and shelves~~
~~Sheet rock to make small closet for vacuum etc.~~
Install shelf and broom organizers

We were not planning to redo the front guest/kids bathroom during this remodel since it really needed to be almost gutted and completely redone, but we decided to finally go for it when we hired some guys to do all the trim and a bunch of other projects. We figure that it is worth is to do it now since we put all this time and money into fixing up the rest of the house. It was just silly to leave it undone, especially since it is practically the first thing you see when you enter our house.

Guest/Kid Bathroom:

~~Rip out old tile~~
~~Rip up laminate flooring~~
~~Redo subflooring~~
~~Get rid of cracked old toilet and get water saving toilet~~
~~New Vanity~~
Hang a medicine cabinet
~~Beadboard one wall~~
~~New Tile in shower~~
~~Install a shower door~~
~~Trim~~
~~Paint trim~~
Hang Froggie art
Install three small floating shelves

And we still have the following to tackle over the next few summers:

Exterior:

Paint the trim
Rain chains
Fix drainage
Build a fence for the entire backyard
Rip out chain link fence (dog run)
Level dirt
Build a patio/seating area
Stairs or deck into house from backyard
Firepit area
Small grass area for kid play

Pictures to follow soon!

Life with Micah Lately

2013-05-12T21:29:00.001-07:00

These aren't the best photos since they are IPhone photos, but they capture a lot of Micah's life lately.

Playing in Seattle's awesome warm sunny weather lately

Accompanying Mommy and Daddy to Chipotle

Playing in Isaac's new tent looking forward to camping this summer

Watching Isaac use tools while Daddy helped Isaac's daddy with their remodel

Playing with trucks at the park

Loving all things musical

At my Baby Genius class crawling all over

Sleeping a lot in the carseat

Hanging out in the Bob stroller

Gramma sent this to Mommy & Daddy while they were working. I pulled myself up to standing!

I do not like solid food yet. Mommy and Daddy try to get me to taste all this weird stuff like potatoes and bell peppers.

Sorry for the blurry picture, but Mommy just loves my little ducky self after baths.

I'm just chillin, super used to bottles, but Mommy was excited because it was the first bottle she gave me. I was like, dude...I'm almost eight months old mom...come on!

I'm not very scared of new things. I kept up with the toddlers at Temple on our Help Dora find the Torah adventure

I'm good at sitting and listening to story time. Here I am with friends at temple in the Kiddush Club

I love when Mommy helps me stand up and walk. And I love knobs and handles.

I like to sit myself up now. I can do it quickly.

I have so many toys and I play with them a ton now.

Thanks for joining us for a glimpse of our day to day life!

Feeding With Love- A Breastfeeding Story

2013-05-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

My breastfeeding journey so far has been one that I already cherish. While the first few days were extremely challenging (mostly day three when my milk came in and it hurt almost as bad as contractions. Word to the wise future moms: Do not use cabbage as a natural remedy. It's not worth the stink. Also, make sure to have a pump right away, even just a cheap handheld one!), the rest has been pretty enjoyable. I feel like I grow so much as a mom and as a person with each feeding. I joke that I am growing more and more "hippie" since I am more free with where I feed and when I cover up my feedings. In Micah's first few months, I attended the most amazing parent-baby group at Evergreen Hospital in Kirkland and the fabulous teacher, Christine, said that she read somewhere that in some other languages, the word for breastfeeding is literally translated as "making peace for your baby". I feel so fortunate that Micah and I have been able to connect in such an intimate and peaceful way. I love gazing at him lovingly like a mama bird. I love when he first started gazing right back up at me. I am smitten over his first distracted feeds where he raised his little hand up to touch my face. His little pinches, powerful grasps, and slaps at my breast when my milk doesn't come fast enough for him tickle my future memories. Each time he reaches up and grasps for wisps of my hair, parts of my scarfs, or the springy dangling strap of my unhooked bra, I reach back with love for the little willful being so attached to his mama. It's a funny thing, this breastfeeding. It is just about as surreal as the whole act of growing a human inside me was. I don't like to throw around the term magical, but feeding and sustaining Micah with a constant supply of milk is just that; magical. As hard as our often sleepless nights can be, it is not hard when I think that I am meeting his needs and sustaining his little life. Even at seven months, I am not concerned that he is not "sleeping through the night" or that we are establishing "bad habits". Micah is less interested in nursing to sleep now, which makes me a bit sad. It is the first true sign that he is not an infant anymore (ok, so crawling and cutting two teeth were also good signs of that, but they didn't have the same weight for me emotionally).

As a working mom, I can say that I have a love/hate relationship with this breast milk thing, since I love feeding Micah and connecting with him skin to skin daily (now nightly), but I really do come close to the dreaded H word (h-a-t-e for those of you not in the world of Kindergarteners) for pumping. Pumping was so isolating in the beginning, until I wised up and brought the pump out of my closet and onto my desk. It was isolating when I locked my door and put up a warning sign. It was taking away my free time, my planning time, my lunch time, my prep time, my sanity when I tried to pump three times a day (before school, at lunch/planning, and after school). I finally decided to be at peace with the idea of Micah having mostly formula while I work and thus I am down to pumping just once a day at lunch time. Today was the first day that I did not pump a single time at work and while I thought I would be feeling elated at the idea of not "wasting time" and not lugging the heavy thing back and forth (not to mention cleaning the thing each night), I'm feeling a bit sad. I am hoping that this doesn't signal a decrease in my supply. I'm also wondering if perhaps my supply has just shifted to produce at night instead (which would make sense as to why Micah is back to sleeping and feeding all night).

I love this journey and I hope that we remain on it, at least part time, for the rest of his first year. I hope that feeding my future children will be just as easy and peaceful. I understand the benefits that bottle feeding provides and I have been happy to have Phil or Susan make bottles for Micah, but as long as my milk is still in supply, I will continue to connect with my little baby at the breast. I am also likely to continue to grow more "hippie" and flash my breast more often while in public as it is natures way.

I have read a few blogs on breastfeeding that I have found extremely helpful, so if you are interested, you can find them here and here and here. Oh yeah, and you know that breastfeeding mama who was so controversial on the cover of Time magazine a while back? I subscribe to her blog and love so much of what she writes!

Just in case my self admitted "hippie"status gave you any indication that I am looking for tips and advice on how to get Micah to eat solid food and sleep through the night, I'm not...but, thanks anyways!

Here's a few photos from our journey so far. If you are anyone but my brother, you may enjoy them.

;-)

Our first days learning how to feed

The horrible third day. This has to be the most embarrassing photo of my life, but it so tells part of the story of our breastfeeding journey!

Ignore the beverage and check out the cute "Hooter Hider"

Busting out the Boob. Cover free on the ferry.

Connecting with gazes, grabs, and kisses. And so began the "distracted feeds".

Birthday Get Away

2013-05-01T22:05:00.000-07:00

I couldn't have asked for a better thirtieth birthday celebration. Considering we have a baby now, it was not to be the debauchery Thirsty Thirty that Phil's Big Birthday weekend was a few years ago, which is fine by me. Instead, I decided a fun little get away weekend with friends, family, and kids would be fun. We spent three days and two nights renting a house at the Suncadia Resort near Cle Elem & Roslyn, Washington. My mom flew in for the weekend (my dad was supposed to, but he is back east training for a brand new job...excuses excuses), Micah and Isaac got to play together, Charlie got to come along and get some good freedom and exercise, Phil had a bit of guy time and just a few good beers, and I had much needed girl time with friends and family at the best spa I've ever been to. Oh yeah, I can't forget the fact that we had tons of Guacamole (my favorite!) and an amazing homemade authentic Mexican meal thanks to one of the mom's from the school that I work at. I'm used to being spoiled by my parents (which they continued to do even for my big 3-0!), but this year my hubby joined them in spoiling me. He surprised me with a Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake (another favorite), an IPhone (I know...I finally entered the modern world and left my "dumb phone" behind!), and he even got a piñata too! I have always been a huge fan of birthdays and I can now add this to the list of memorable, unforgettable milestone birthdays. I am sure that I will go overboard celebrating all of Micah's birthdays, but at least I can try to balance it out by teaching him to recognize the importance of celebrating other's birthdays too (like his mother and father).

Here is a huge photo dump from the weekend. I am feeling super horrible and guilty that I somehow neglected to get a single shot of or with a few of my guests (like Cricket, my own mother, & Mike's girlfriend Paula). What kind of photographer am I!? Boo! :-/

The babies finally getting closer to "play date" age

The new pack and play that Micah may never sleep in. At least he liked playing in it a bit.

Krista loving the sunshine on Day 1

So glad that Anna and Ryan joined us for our joint birthday weekend!

Gramma Nanny finally enjoying some off time

So happy to have some girl time with two best friends (& bummed that I didn't snap a photo with Cricket too!)

Micah getting tons of great Daddy time

And more Gramma time

Krista and Isaac

The other Birthday Girl! We are just one day apart. Anna is such a young'un!

My new favorite photo of us!

The babies loved playing with toys all weekend. Can you believe that Isaac is a whole nine months older than Micah!?

You'd think he was smiling at Micah, not Peter....ha!

The yummiest tamales & enchilada dinner

Krista and Peter enjoying their time away from their own crazy remodel!

just one of many surprises

I never knew this guy could be so good at planning surprises!

And surprised I was!

Dying of laughter with the bag on your head instead of a bandana for the pinata

So much fun!

Everyone got to try

Even the boys got to take a stab at it

Not a dull moment

What better way to collect all the candy than a snow shovel?

Anna's adorable gift that is intended just for the cute pun, not because she believes it!

I am still trying to figure out why Phil chose an elephant for me...symbolism anyone?

Uncle Mikey makes an amazing breakfast!

Thank you to everyone near and far that helped me celebrate my birthday! I feel so extremely lucky and blessed. The cards, calls, facebook posts were greatly appreciated. And to those who ~~spent more mone than you likely wanted to for someone's birthday~~ made it out to Suncadia, I had the best time and just love you to pieces!

Spring Break Part Two: Cleveland, Ohio

2013-04-27T19:57:00.002-07:00

Cleveland, Ohio!!! (now, reread while singing as part of the Sublime song April 26, 1992)

Micah, his Nana, and I took the short flight from Chicago to Cleveland on Tuesday and then grabbed a rental car and made our way to Micah's Great Great Aunt Ginny's house. And by grabbed a rental car, I mean, got a rental car anyways after accidentally reserving it for the week before. But alas, it being Cleveland, Ohio (again with the singing voice), we had no problem.

I would love to tell you about all of the amazing things that we did in Cleveland. I would love to tell you that you have been missing out on a wonderful part of America. But, I won't sugar coat things. We didn't bother going downtown Cleveland at all, since my mom and I got to do that twice two years ago (for a couple of super awesome family weddings) and we've done the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame many times already. I was hoping that my cousin Robbie would take us hiking in some of the parks he goes to since his photography always makes the area look amazing. But, the weather was not good. It was slightly entertaining though since there were thunderstorms,which we don't really get out here. So, we did what the Strauss family does best. We ate. Then we ate again. Then we planned the next meal while we were at the first. And so on and so forth. We also squeezed in some major mall walking at three different malls.

I don't know if I already told you this, but I love my family. I love my Aunts and Uncles in Cleveland and I really really love my big cousins. I can't even tell you what it is about them. I love their accents. I love their humor. I love that they are charismatic and funny and loving and fun to be around. They are some of the few people that I don't even care about having plans to do specific activities with. I just love hanging out and talking and being together. I couldn't wait to introduce Micah to all the Cleveland fam. They are some of my greatest supporters. I appreciate them so much. I'm glad they met Micah and I am also glad I got to spend more time with them. Especially my cousin Eric's kids, Jackson and Sophia. Jackson was five before I got to meet him and I didn't want that to happen for all of them and Micah. So now, they have all met Micah and I have finally gotten to know nine year old sporty and too mature for his own good Jackson, and five year old flirty and fun Sophie. We spent three days just being together and I am so thankful for every bit of it.

Love this one of my mom

Sorry my focus is all off...I was playing around with camera settings. Auntie Jill & my mom

How adorable are these Sophia and Micah shots?

My cousin Eric being the awesome dad that he is

Uncle Eddie. He hasn't changed a bit since I can remember him :-)

My mom's BIG birthday celebration

The Bainbridge, Ohio Strauss family

Micah loved cousin Robbie!

Me and the boys. Dave, Rob, Micah, and Uncle Arnie

With our wonderful Cleveland hostess, Auntie Ginny

Spring Break Chicago Style: Family, Family of Family, and Fun in the Sun

2013-04-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

Most people from the Puget Sound area like to escape to warmer destinations over Spring Break like Hawaii, California, and Arizona. I, however, am apparently from a different bread of folk who chose two spring break hot spots: Chicago and Cleveland! What, you say they are not hot spots? Well, luckily we have amazing family in both locations who brightened our days (and it did almost get to 70 degrees one or two days thanks to crazy spring weather!). Micah and I had a blast. We did learn a few things about traveling Mommy and baby and will write more on those soon.

In Chicago we visited my cousins Debbie and Dave and their baby Will. It was so wonderful to finally get to meet Will. It is hard to believe that it was already two years ago that we gave a small family baby shower for Debbie and Dave in Scottsdale, Arizona on our little Spring Training get together. I was so excited to finally get to know the little guy and I wanted to see Debbie since she is pregnant again and expecting their second kiddo. Since Will is currently first cousin-less and Micah is currently first cousin-less, we wanted to get them together as soon as possible to feel the cousin love. Debbie is technically my Dad's first cousin since her mom was my Papa Howard's little half sister. I feel so lucky that our families have remained so close even with the weird generation gaps and long distance.

My mom, Micah and I arrived on Saturday afternoon and had until Tuesday with the three of them. Cousin Will is just as adorable as his pictures. He loves reading books, has tons and tons of interactive toys, loves to eat all kinds of food, loves going to "school" (his day care. He almost loves going to school as much as his dad loves receiving his "report cards" each day!). Will was pretty sweet with Micah and loved showing his toys to Micah, although as is to be expected from an almost two year old, he immediately wanted them all back to himself the minute Micah showed any interest in them.

Debbie & Dave were so gracious to host our extended families! Micah's Uncle Alan's family (Alan is married to Jen, my adopted sister and hospital twin) is from Chicago, so we got to visit with them over brunch. We also got to see Micah's Auntie Beth's parents (my brother's in-laws) who are also from Chicago. The food was yummy, the weather sunny, and the company so wonderful! It was the perfect get together. We got to visit and Micah got to meet little Jessica (Auntie Jen and Uncle Alan's niece)!

Cousin Will reading one of his books

The Chicago Seif family: Debbie, Lou, Neil, Shannon, and baby Jessica

So fun to see Shannon and Neil again!

I am absolutely in love with this photo of Jessica!

This one too even though it is without her super cute smile

Micah started tummy crawling a bit while we were there!

Ken & Susan with Micah and my mom

The yummiest brunch foods

The hostess with the mosses in her gorgeous home

Sorry Auntie Beth & Uncle Ben...KPoobah is ready to be a Grampa!

Sorry again Auntie Beth & Uncle Ben...Gramma Susan is a natural too!

Fun with bubbles on a sunny spring day

enjoying all the attention

Jessica's Grandpa Lou!

Fun with a rice sensory tub. Will liked to eat the uncooked rice.

A wonderful day together

Micah looks super tired, but he slept pretty well considering we were in a new spot!

We couldn't visit Chicago without some Chicago style pizza! Phil was sooo jealous!

Enjoying Will's baby toys

Clear blue skies at the bean

We didn't stay long downtown, but Nana and Micah enjoyed the 70 degree weather at the bean

My lovie

Stay tuned for Spring Break Part Two and for Tips on How to Travel Alone with Baby

Seven Month Old Baby

2013-04-21T22:29:00.000-07:00

Micah is seven months. My little cutie is closer to being a one year old than to being a newborn baby! This was a huge month of growth and changes for Micah. We love him so so so much! This month Micah:


Began tummy crawling and getting himself pretty much where he wants to go
Cut his first tooth and is starting to cut the second (both lower front teeth)
Started to play a lot (which means lots and lots of books, toys, blocks, and stuffed animals now capture his attention) 
Traveled with mommy (and Nana) to visit and meet the family in Chicago and Cleveland 
Kept up the stranger danger phase with new people
Started reaching out to get mommy to hold him if Nana or Gramma had him
Traveled to Gramma Susan's home many days while construction happened in our own home
Got a lot louder when he gets tired and has started to make some pretty funny sounds
Occasionally started to blow raspberries on us and into the air (sometimes so hard he looks like he could burst!)
Started not enjoying diaper changes as much
is still cosleeping with Mom and Dad
is on mostly formula during the day and mommies milk at night (with one bottle of it during the day)
continues to be a mostly calm and happy baby!

got his first little hair cut so now it's just a mohawk instead of a comb over!

Showing off my new teeth

I can crawl around now!

Babies First Easter (Meeting Great Gramma Lilly)

2013-04-16T21:31:00.001-07:00

While poor Phil was quarantined to his own bedroom and bathroom due to food poisoning, Micah and I went to Gramma Susan's for a wonderful Easter Sunday. It was the perfect opportunity for Micah to meet his Great Grandparents Lilly and Tom. In true Susan form, we had a wonderful home cooked meal that I could rave about for days. In true Lilly form, she had a beer in her hand for every photo I took...how's that for living life at 86 years young or so?! (add that to the list of reasons why this woman completely fascinates and amazes me. The top of the list is the fact that she still goes commercial fishing in Alaska every summer!) And lucky, not in true Seattle form, the weather cooperated and was sunny and nice! I love the photos from the day (my apologies to Tom...it seems he managed to escape my photos!). Poor Phil missed the whole thing.

Loving the sun

Micah and his Gramma/Nanny Susan :-)

Checking out Great Gramma Lilly from below

Yum!

Double yum!

Nap time

action shot

Loves his Gramma sooo much! Lucky he gets to be with her while Mommy and Daddy work each day!

What!? Another beer Great Gramma?! ha!

If only Phil was here...it would be four generations!

San Carlos Just Won't Be the Same...

2013-04-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Last week my parents informed me that their good friend, Randy Royce, who had been battling cancer heroically for many years finally lost the fight and passed away. I knew that they said it would likely happen soon, but it still made my heart so heavy and it instantly began to ache. It ached for his family. It ached for his friends. But, it also ached for San Carlos and the world. It's so cliche, but the world has really lost a completely and truly inspiring person.

Randy & Yvette with my dad circa 2010

Randy was not like a second dad to me, as my family and his were not that close. I grew up going to school with his oldest son, Roger, and my brother played soccer with his younger son, Todd. My mom grew friendly with his wife, Yvette, and also with Randy himself through PTA events at first and then with countless City of San Carlos committee's and events. Randy was that community guy that seemed to be involved in everything! I never even knew if he had a "real job" as it seemed almost impossible since, how could anyone have time for all of the community service and committees and organizations that Randy was involved in and have a full time job?! The best part about Randy was just how genuinely nice he was. He was just one of those people who really did make people feel welcomed, at ease, optimistic, and even energized in his presence.

My favorite photo from our wedding taken by THE amazing Randy Royce

It's not like every time I go home for a visit I would see him, but just knowing that he is not in The City of Good Living doing all the good that he always did, walking around with a giant smile and an open ear, toting his camera taking amazing photos, makes me super sad.

It's one of those times that I sit baffled and pondering the meaning of life, the way things work, my concept of karma and my own beliefs in a higher power. How can this happen to such a wonderful person and also to one of the best families?

My thoughts and prayers are truly with Yvette, Roger, Todd and anyone else who has a heavy heart at the loss of Randy Royce.

The following is the write up from the City of San Carlos regarding Randy's truly amazing life. I hope someone writes a full biography on him someday as I am sure it would be an inspirational and interesting read.

From: <eNotify@CityofSanCarlos.org>
Date: March 26, 2013 5:29:48 PM PDT
To: Undisclosed recipients:;
Subject: Former Mayor Randy Royce Passes Away

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

San Carlos, CA - March 26, 2013 - It is with sadness that the City of San Carlos learned earlier this afternoon of the passing of Former Mayor Randy Royce at his home in San Carlos after a long battle with cancer.

Royce was elected to the City Council in 2007 and served one term from 2007 through December 2011. During his tenure on the City Council, he served as Vice Mayor and Mayor.

In addition to his service on the City Council, Royce also served the City as a member of the History, Arts & Science Commission, the Economic Development Advisory Commission, the Residential Design Review Committee and the Planning Commission.

Royce was also involved in countless volunteer programs and groups including serving as the Chairman of the San Carlos 75th Anniversary Committee, a Coach of AYSO Soccer, the San Carlos Museum Board, the San Carlos Sister Cities Association and the Canada College Presidential Advisory Committee.

Flags at City Buildings were lowered to half-staff this afternoon in Royce's honor.

In 2011, the San Carlos Chamber of Commerce and the City of San Carlos presented the San Carlos Citizen of the Year Award to Royce. When presented with the award, Royce was lauded for his service to the community and his time on the City Council.

During his term as Mayor in 2010 and following the San Bruno explosion and fire, Royce met with PG&E officials to request hydrostatic testing of natural gas lines. As a result, San Carlos became one of the first cities in the State whose natural gas lines were tested in this manner and were upgraded with automatic shut off valves.

Royce also presided over a City Council charged with finding ways of maintaining or increasing the level of City services while reducing costs. He was instrumental in moving the city from a $3.5 Million structural deficit to a budget surplus of over $500,000 in just over a year while simultaneously raising the level of services to the community in the areas of Police, Fire, and Parks & Recreation. This creative approach to budget balancing led to the City of San Carlos receiving the prestigious Helen Putnam Award for Innovative Financial Programs from the League of California Cities in 2012.

His desire to help others extends beyond San Carlos as Royce traveled to Pass Christian, Mississippi with the San Carlos community relief effort, helping the citizens there rebuild after Hurricane Katrina.

He and his wife, Yvette, raised two sons in San Carlos where Randy coached AYSO soccer. In addition, he served as a member of the History of San Carlos Museum Board, the San Carlos Sister Cities Association and the Canada College Presidential Advisory Board.

Mayor Bob Grassilli said: "San Carlos has lost a great leader and citizen today. Randy Royce was someone who always gave his energy, passion and heart to everything he was involved with. He has given so much to the San Carlos community. He will be sorely missed but his many contributions will be remembered and treasured by all of us."

Council Member Ron Collins said "Randy Royce was a close friend and mentor. During his service to the City as a Planning Commissioner, City Council Member and Mayor, he had the courage to make many tough decisions that have and will continue to benefit the City for many years to come. We are all better for having known him and are grateful to the many contributions he made to the City of San Carlos."

During his term on the City Council, Royce also served on several committees and boards representing the City and City Council including the 2+2 City Council/School Board Joint Committee, the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) - City Council Representative, C/CAG Regional Housing Needs Assessment Committee, San Mateo County Council of Cities, City Council Finance Subcommittee, Housing and Regional Trust (HEART) Board of Directors (appointed by the Mayors in San Mateo County), League of California Cities Peninsula Division, Parks and Recreation Commission (Council Liaison), San Carlos Together, Wheeler Plaza Subcommittee, Council Liaison to the Harbor Industrial Association (HIA), San Mateo County Library JPA Board and Alternate Council Representative on the South Bayside System Authority Board (SBSA).

Royce received an M.B.A degree from USC and spent 23 years at Hewlett-Packard where he worked on several complex, high-tech investment scenarios. During his time at HP's Agilent division, Royce was acting Chief Financial Officer of three Silicon Valley start-ups where he provided leadership, financial consulting and communication with management, investors and the Board of Directors.

His personal interests included photography, San Carlos history, woodworking, travel, long walks with his dog Mia, skiing and golf.

Royce often was seen taking high quality photos at City Events like Hometown Days as the unofficial "City Photographer". His photos also appear in the book "San Carlos Stories: An Oral History of San Carlos" written by Carlmont High School History Teacher Linda Wickert Garvey.

Randy is survived by his wife Yvette and his two sons Todd and Roger. A memorial service for him is planned at the Hiller Aviation Museum. Further details on the service will be forthcoming.

###

Contact :

Bob Grassilli, Mayor (650) 802-4160
bgrassilli@cityofsancarlos.org

Brian Moura, Assistant City Manager (650) 802-4210
bmoura@cityofsancarlos.org

http://www.cityofsancarlos.org/civica/press/display.asp?layout=1&Entry=671

Happy Half Birthday!

2013-03-22T18:34:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Micah's first half birthday! I can't believe it has been six amazing months with this kiddo! He is becoming so mobile, which is evident in this months photo shoot. I only could get out of focus and blurry photos! Yikes. My apologies.

This month Micah has:

Managed to suck and chew on his feet as much as possible
Discovered his little wiener in the tub.
Been a drool monkey on and off.
Done baby push ups lifting his whole torso up off the activity mat. He is also spinning himself around doing 360's and is even scooting backwards!
Enjoyed many "chew toys" for teething that his Daddy bought for him.
Had many trips to the park & many rides in his stroller
Pushed bedtime back to almost 8pm! Thanks a lot daylight savings time!
Continues snacking on and off at night, but only seems to wake for one nighttime feeding.
Giggled and laughed and snorted a lot (especially when Daddy played with him and made silly noises)
Had another cold
gotten rid of his "neck mustache" but still has his comb over hair (and his cute little swirl at the top of his head)
tried solid foods! So far he's mostly just played with it, but he has experienced avocado, banana, and asparagus in some way
Continued to make a variety of interesting noises. Lately he has been trying to emulate the sound for P, especially when we say "poo poo"
Displayed stranger danger when Mommy's work friends held him
Experienced true constipation for almost 40 hours!
Had to have a mix of formula and breast milk, since Mommy's supply isn't keeping up to demand now that she's back at work.
moved to a convertible car seat!
sat nicely in his new high chair
*update: Micah was 18 lbs 8 oz at his 6 month doctors appointment which was a bit late. He was 27 inches too!

Nana & Papa

2013-03-21T22:27:00.002-07:00

Micah loved getting a full weekend with his Nana and Papa. He knew exactly who they were when they arrived from California for the weekend. He is in the crying phase with strangers so we were a bit worried that he would cry for them, but he didn't at all. He definitely remembered them. He laughed and smiled and loved and soaked up their kisses all weekend long. Phil and I enjoyed watching the three of them. We also took advantage of my parents being here and found time to run errands just the two of us. We even had our first "date night" since Micah was born, which was only about an hour long, but it was really super nice. It was the first time I'd been able to have a drink at the the Beer Junction since it opened while I was pregnant and we can't go there with Micah. We forgot how important it is to make time for just the two of us.

Also, happy birthday to Micah's amazing Papa Jay. My dad is so loving and caring for all of us and we are so thankful for his love and support. He has done so much to make me the person I am today. I can only hope that Micah will grow up learning as much from his Papa as I have. And yes, Dad, there will be Disneyland trips...

Blogger Baby Shower

2013-03-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've joined the facebook group Seattle Blogger's Unite, which I got very excited about since I really am interested in meeting other bloggers in the area. Through this, I found out about a blogger baby shower thrown in honor of The Maven of Social Media. I barely made the invitation qualifications since it was for pregnant bloggers or bloggers with infants 6 months or under. As stressful as it was to leave work on the early side, let Phil give Micah another bottle (therefore depleting my breastmilk supply even further), and miss out on the little time I get with Micah after work, I'd say the shower ended up being a great way to spend a Tuesday evening. Leanne of Rave and Review put on this wonderfully sponsored event and not only did each blog gal in attendance receive a fun swag bag full of goodies, but we basically each walked away with two awesome gift baskets full of baby stuff. It was fun meeting new people, like Meghan of 425 Mom (whom I'd already stumbled upon her awesome blog before meeting her). It was also fun to be around so many second or third time mothers to hear advice and recommendations and also stories of things to look forward to or dread (potty training, etc.). A lot of the goodies came from Infantino and Freshbaby and were super cute. Micah scored a sweet starting solids gift set and a bathtime gift set. Fun Fun!

the bloggers

the prizes

The hostess

Super sweet Mamas

The bathtime goodies I scored

The Starting Solids goodies I also snagged

Regrouping for Baby

2013-03-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Micah is 24 weeks old already! That means he is about six months (even though we are still another two weeks from the official 6 month birthday)! It is amazing what this kid can do already. He seems so different than just a week or two ago. He is sitting up by himself, pre-crawling (where he kicks his feet, does huge push ups, raises his butt so far in the air, and rolls over), babbling more (including little funny screeching noises), and mimicking some of our funny faces and noises. We decided to purchase the next size of car seats, since he was pretty cramped in his infant carseat. The new convertible car seat is so roomy and nice and will still be safe and rear-facing for a while. We also decided to invest in a highchair so that he can start to sit with us at the table at meal times. He is even starting to play with solid food! He ate a bit (we are talking a teaspoon or less) of avocado the other night (but it definitely counts, since it did change the texture of his poop!). He is majorly teething, but so far it's hard to tell how close he is to actually "cutting" a tooth. He has been seriously fighting naptimes unless we are at home in a quiet dark room, which is new since just a week ago he was still easily napping in the stroller or the front-pack. Overall, he is still a super sweet baby with such a carefree and happy personality. Needless to say, we love him so much!

First food! Avocado!

Get in my belly!

Not so sure what to do with this stuff!

hmmm.....

New perspective on life with a new carseat!

Playing with my football in my cool new carseat

Pushups are easy

I'm so close!

I'm a drool monkey

Trying to crawl is hard work and frustrating!

Day Trip to Vashon

2013-03-10T21:29:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like a sunny day on the sound with great friends.

Micah's first ferry ride

The Richardson family

Mt. Rainier in all her beauty

Vashon Island Lighthouse

Peter helping Isaac navigate the beach

The Vrbas fam on a fun daytrip to Vashon

Music and Fish

2013-03-03T21:10:00.001-08:00

Micah's two first loves. His face lights up when he hears music and rhythm. His eyes grow large with wonder when he sees fish (ok, and moving water). So naturally, we signed him up for a Kindermusic class and got a membership to the Aquarium. Saturday was our first music class. Phil and I got to take Micah. The class was sweet and although he had been woken up from a nap for it, he seemed to enjoy it. He also enjoyed watching mom and dad tinker around with instruments in the Soundbridge part of Benaroya Symphony Hall (where the class was located) afterwards. It's funny how inspired Phil and I are watching Micah's musical nature. As most babies probably are, Micah is easily calmed or entertained by singing or humming. He is fascinated when we keep a beat with our dinner utensils. Ever since he's been riding in the car and hating riding in the car, the only thing that could sooth him is one very special song. We'll see if his love for music continues, but it's already very exciting for us to see. We just might have to take up learning to play an instrument at the same time Micah inevitably will.

As we discovered around Christmas time, Micah is very entertained by fish and moving water. Seems like he's already taking after his Uncle Ben in that way. My heart is so full of love watching him discover and learn new things. Micah has been learning a mile a minute lately. Just look how he holds onto his daddy and stares curiously at all of the new sights.

so much to learn

mom has too much fun while I'm sleeping

uh oh...tired of mommy taking photos?

Our Family Command Center

2013-02-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

Every kitchen needs a command center. Especially when you have a giant island countertop that likes to accumulate mail, papers, and everything else under the sun...I mean clouds (this is Seattle after all). Especially when you have a hubby that needs a little organizational help (hey...I'm not being mean, he could say that I need a lot of help in areas he is amazing at like DIYing, cooking, deep cleaning, and on and on....). I like the idea of having one place that the hubster can look to find a pen (which he always needs), our calendar (so on the rare occasion he is making plans for us he will know what's going on even if I'm not home), our menu plan (so I won't constantly need to answer the "What's for dinner?" question), and will even hold all of his mail and papers (that he just loves to leave out all over) in a hidden from view kind of way. I found the perfect little wall space that wouldn't be getting much use otherwise since it's above a heating vent and too skinny and awkward for any fancy art or photos. This was a super easy project that took a quick trip to Staples for some clear plastic file holders and the rest of the stuff we already had around the house.
The yellow clothespin board was a gift for baby Micah (I believe it is a Pottery Barn kids item) and is a fun alternative to a standard bulletin board.

The detail shots:

Different, Yet Same

2013-02-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

Life is so different, yet life is still the same.

Now that we have Micah, we have reason to go to things like the Temple Purim Carnival, which we went to Sunday morning (and dressed Micah up as SuperPooper...cape and all!). That was something different. Then we were hungry so we walked to Barrio, a super yummy Mexican restaurant that actually manages to remind us of San Diego, and had brunch. That was something the same...something we could do when it was just us. Something that we likely won't be doing when we have more than one kid. It's funny how we realize how different our lives are, but at the same time so much of what we used to do is still possible. It's a little like how we used to go for walks on our own and then we got Charlie. Then we went for walks with Charlie. Then we got Micah and so we went on our walks with Charlie and Micah. It's different, yet the same. It's funny how life changes so drastically and yet it can feel so totally normal and natural. We love this little family we've got going so much!

Sunday at brunch, the lighting was so perfect, so we whipped out the camera and caught some super fun shots. Enjoy!

Nose picker, already!?

The Best Baby Gifts

2013-02-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a list of must buy baby items or items to register for if you are expecting, then keep on searching; this is not that list. I started to think about creating that list of must have items for any baby and I came up with a few:

Velcro swaddlers or The Miracle Swaddle Blanket (since the regular fold it yourself kind might feel good, but they are a pain to master)
Baby health items like gripe water, baby aspirin since they provide peace of mind just knowing they are there
Bottles with storage bags
outfits in the style of the city baby will live in and of the sports teams of that city

I also thought of a list of items to skip giving a Mom-to-be or new Mom if you want to be unique and helpful:

pacifiers (let the mom see if the baby even likes the one they got at the hospital first)
blankets (we got so many blankets! While they were all super sweet, unless they were handmade, they aren't getting used a lot)
Bibs (so many!)
Hats (so many don't stay on or were too small from the start)
Changing pad and Diaper Bag (each parent will have very specific taste and needs for these two items, so unless it is on a registry...skip this decision!)

Mostly I didn't want to do a more detailed list since I am so sick of all the consumerism that surrounds babies and children (ok, fine, that is in our society in general). For the most part babies will be fine with the basics! They don't need twenty outfits, ten will do. They don't need a bunch of toys since they will end up wanting to play with items you already have anyways. If you are buying someone a baby gift, ask yourself the following questions:

Is it practical?
Is it sentimental?
Is it eco-friendly?
Is it unique?

The best gifts that we received were:

frozen meals and gift certificates for restaurants (especially ones that you can order take out from)
boring, yet practical items like diapers, wipes, nursing bras, nursing shirts, reusable nursing pads (ok, so we actually didn't receive any of these, but I would have loved to get these as gifts!)
and all of the handmade gifts we received

We are so fortunate to have such crafty friends and family! We showed you back in June and July all the amazing handmade gifts from our showers and that arrived in the mail. Ever since Micah arrived, the handmade gifts just keep on coming! We love all of them!

My cousin Elizabeth even let us borrow the play mat that she made for her daughter, Ellie. Ellie never really got to enjoy it since this labor of love took Elizabeth a bit longer than expected and Ellie was too old by the time it was done to get the full enjoyment out of it. Isn't it gorgeous!? What a labor of love! Lucky Micah gets to use it!

more proof he is my little froggy!

Even family of our family made beautiful things for Micah. This blanket was made by Lynette (who you can read more about here)'s fabulous mother, Jane! I love that it is Seattle sports colors...While we hope he won't be rooting for those Seageeks or Mariners, he can still sport blue and green for the oh so awesome Seattle Sounders soccer team.

This next gift is so special since it was made by my 96 year old Great Aunt Shirley! How stinkin cute is this beanie?

Five Months!

2013-02-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

This month Micah has:

Moved from focusing on his hands to focusing on his feet (and trying to get them into his mouth!)
Been drooling a little less. More on and off teething.
Continued to grow so big! He was 16 lbs 6 and a half oz at the 4 month appointment and seems to continue to weigh more and grow in length
Almost outgrown his baby bath tub. We are still using it, but it's on its last days since his knees and legs are out of the water.
Continued to love jumping in his jumperoo.
Grown way more interested in grabbing and playing with the stuffed toys that hang from his activity mat.
Continued leaning forward to try to grab things (like his feet or Charlie or mom's hair, necklace, eyes, ears...) and has done so successfully and quite forcefully! He can hold his own pacifier (we still try every now and then to see what he'll do with it. He just basically uses it as a teether and doesn't suck on it very much, but it is very entertaining for all of us). He pulls on my hair and holds on when we pick him up.
Continued to show interest in other people and babies
Gone to the park and swung on the swings, slid down the slide (with Mommy's help) and rode a toy train (with Mommy's help) and loved it!
Been going to sleep around 6 or 7 each night after a bath, story, and "Mommy time" breastfeeding. Seems to be getting a bit later than it used to be since he naps later and since Mommy is back at work and he misses her.
Continues 3 major night time feedings. Usually around 11:30pm, 3:30am, and 5:30am. Mommy has gotten really good and sleeping through these feedings (I'm not using the IPad all night or even looking at the clock each time anymore!)
Giggled and laughed and snorted a lot
Cried a lot less
Fights sleep, especially the first nap of the day
Stopped hating the car. He now plays with the toys or stares in the mirror or out the window or falls right to sleep!
Babbled with baby talk a lot! Uses funny noises made in the back of his throat. Kind of gurgles.
Loved being outside
Continued to be entertained by Charlie.
Enjoyed Facetime with his Nana and Papa regularly
Enjoyed more time with Gramma now that she gets to be here everyday as Nanny. He transitioned so well for her! He lights up with a giant smile when she arrives each morning and even has huge smiles for Mommy and Daddy when they come home each evening.
Been eating more than Mommy can pump, which makes her sad since her backup supply is dwindling and she may have to supplement with formula here and there since pumping is hard work!
Let Daddy help and play with him a lot more
Loved Barnes and Noble and although he mostly just wants to eat books, occasionally he loves listening to stories and looking at the pictures
Just started showing the first signs of stranger danger (not wanting to be left with a "stranger")
Grown more hair! Lost more of his first baby hair (although some is sticking around looking like a bad toupee. Luckily he lost his little "neck mustache").

Almost crawling! Loves to move already!

Back to Work: An Emotional Roller-coaster Ride

2013-02-12T20:47:00.002-08:00

It has only been two full days back at work, yet I can tell that for the rest of my working life, I will be stuck on a roller-coaster ride of emotions. There are definite highs (when I have five and six year olds hugging me, smiling at me, having major aha learning moments, needing my love and praise, etc.) and definite lows (leaving Micah each morning while he watches with a longing gaze as I head out the door). I know that I have one of the best situations out there because Micah is being watched by his own Gramma Susan every day at his own house. We couldn't have it better or easier in that sense. I am so thankful for her. I truly do not have to think or worry about him during the day. Luckily I truly do love my job. The last two days have been wonderful in the sense that I feel like my old self again, I am teaching and learning and growing and changing as a person, and Micah has reacted nicely upon my return each evening. It's just emotional when I get to thinking about all the little moments I'm missing with him. All the things I probably won't see him do. All the snuggles and kisses I'm missing out on. I love my little guy so much. And I already love and care about my students so much.

I feel like the word of the week is patience. I've asked my students to have patience with me since I am learning the schedule and multiple new curricula and am also trying to learn and maintain routines that my sub began. I pray that Micah has patience with me and with missing me and that some day he will understand my desire to keep working (even though I feel like I am forever going to be in this place where every time I'm with him I don't want to leave him and every time I'm with my students I feel like I'm doing the right thing). I am also working on patience. Patience with coworkers, patience with staff meetings and professional development, and most importantly patience with pumping. Up, down, up, down...as is life, especially for this new "working mom".

I took these photos of Micah last week on my last official day off. I can't choose just a few, so I'm just going to inundate you with photos of him. :-)

Our little verbalizer

Working out his core

Loves those feet!

Trying to put everything in his mouth that he can!

Our happy 20 week old boy!

Loving those feet again!

Featured With Love - Donna Becht, Healthy Cities Tutoring

2013-02-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Featured With Love is a series that I began to just plain share the love. I am constantly amazed by my friends and family, especially the ones that have started their own companies and charities. I get bogged down with just the idea of doing my own thing let alone where and how to start and then how to be successful at it. I couldn't help but think about how awesome these businesses and charities are and how it would be fun to highlight them here on my blog. Not that I have a ton of readers, but I'm sure that when you run your own gig, you take any and all PR that you can get. No one has paid me to write about these people. I know that I like to buy from or donate to companies and charities that have come recommended by people I know and trust. The people that I highlight here are all loyal, trustworthy, caring, and dedicated individuals. I hope you will join me in reading and learning about what they do. I am not asking you to purchase or donate anything from them. I am simply spreading the word. Please read along and leave an encouraging comment since they are their own bosses and thus don't always get feedback and encouragement. An easy way to spread the love (and if nothing else, it will help out your karma).

Donna Becht is not only one of my mom's good friends and an amazing mother and wife. She is the influential leader of the San Carlos Healthy Cities Tutoring Program. Healthy Cities is an extremely successful nonprofit organization pairing tutors of all ages with San Carlos, CA students (elementary and middle school ages). I have personal experience with Healthy Cities, as I was a tutor throughout all four years of high school. I had the privilege to tutor the same student for all four years and in doing so, was able to witness amazing growth academically and socially in my student. My mother has been a tutor with Healthy Cities since it's inception and has been fortunate to tutor many students of whom continued with her for one to four years, until they no longer needed additional support. I'm pretty sure that even my brother tutored for a year (which is amazing since he was always more into making money with his spare time back then). I have known many others who have either been a tutor or have been tutored and mentored. Never have I heard a negative statement from anyone. To learn more about this amazing inspiration, I have interviewed Donna to give us a little more insight into the organization. If you live in or near San Carlos and have only a half an hour a week to spare (I believe that's about all the time it takes), please think of partnering with Healthy Cities. I often think that the tutors get more out of it than the students!

Where did you come up with the idea for your organization?

Healthy Cities Tutoring began in 1996 as a dream of school and community leaders seeking to support children and families in San Carlos. I was hired in December 1996 to initiate a volunteer based tutor-mentor program to support struggling students in kindergarten through third grade. This intergenerational program was piloted at one elementary school in early 1997 and quickly expanded to provide one-on-one tutoring and mentoring to students at four elementary and two middle schools for students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

What steps did you take to make it a reality?

Healthy Cities Tutoring was supported by the City of San Carlos for the first thirteen years. Due to increased budget demands placed on both the City of San Carlos and the San Carlos School District, the program lost most of its funding in June, 2011. The program has strong roots in San Carlos and many supporters and partners who did not want to see the program die with the loss of funding. Working with a committed group of volunteers, educators, business leaders and elected officials, the program was reestablished as a 501(c)(3) in September 2011. The nonprofit is now in place with a committed Board of Directors and a fund raising plan working towards ensuring sustainability. Healthy Cities Tutoring is committed to ensuring every child has the support necessary to achieve to their full potential; we know that their achievement creates a healthy, safe and thriving community.

What does your organization do?

Healthy Cities Tutoring matches volunteers from the community with students that need assistance to find success in school. During the 2011-12, 150 volunteers provided help to 159 students. In the sixteen years of the program’s existence, over 1300 students have benefited from the one-on-one help provided by Healthy Cities Tutoring volunteers.

Volunteers are recruited from all walks of life and truly bring the community into the schools. They meet with their students once or twice a week for one hour. Scheduling is variable depending on the needs of the students, requests of the parents and the schedule of the volunteers. Healthy Cities is often the first intervention requested by teachers for children that are struggling. This is a typical referral: “Sylvie is reading at a beginning first grade level. She struggles in all academic areas. She has such a desire to learn and always gives her best effort. She asks lots of questions and doesn’t give up even when it is hard. She could definitely benefit from some one-on-one support. I think she has great potential!”

What is your dream/vision for the future of your organization?

Healthy Cities Tutoring is an amazing partnership between our schools, our city and our residents that helps the youngest members of our community. We currently are serving only 1/3 of the children that are below grade level in our school district. We hope to reach more of those students that are in need of assistance. We also hope to take this model to other communities and further our mission to help more kids that struggle to find success in school. We plan to continue this work for many years to come.

What makes you passionate about your job?

Truly, I know that every day we are making a difference. I have the great privilege of interacting with the hundreds of wonderful people that step forward to volunteer and help a child. I work with amazing teachers who are passionate about kids. I hear from parents how much the tutoring has helped their child and how they appreciate our help. And, I see a child’s face light up when their tutor comes to pick them up from class. It is easy to be passionate about this work.

How can readers get involved or hire you?

Please go to our website at: www.healthycitiestutoring.org and view the video about our organization. Consider being a tutor or donating to our program. Just click on Volunteer or Donate! Help us spread the word by “Liking” us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Healthy-Cities-Tutoring/294707780554505 or following us on Twitter @HCtutoring

If you like and believe in giving back and helping children then you will like this company/organization.

What valuable lessons have you learned since the beginning?

Never give up! Back in 1997, no one dreamed Healthy Cities would find the success that it did. Despite the ups and downs of funding and ownership, Healthy Cities Tutoring has remained true to its belief that a community will step forward and support the children and families that struggle.

What do you do for fun/relaxation outside of your job?

Outside of the job, I like to read, walk and spend time with friends and family.

What is your favorite thing about GrowingSoundRoots?

I enjoy reading about Ali being a mom and all of the changes and experiences in her life, be they large or small. I think she is a great writer!

A Healthy Cities Tutor and Student

Healthy Cities Tutoring in action

***Isn't Donna inspiring!? She does so much for Healthy Cities and it has blossomed thanks to her leadership. Have you been involved with Healthy Cities? Tell us about it in the comments section! How many of you wish that there had been a Healthy Cities around when you were a kid?

Creating an Entryway When There Was None

2013-02-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

So, plans have evolved quite a bit since we began working with Tony, our architect, a little over a year ago. We realized that we had expanded the back of the house to include a large coat closet (which we turned into our pantry) and mudroom type area near the back door; however, we did not think about the current functionality of this plan. The plan will hopefully work nice for the future. You know, in a few more years when the backyard is nicely landscaped with a deck and when we've updated our garage to actually fit one of our cars. Perhaps then once we are primarily entering through the back door, the plans we had Tony draw up will work for us. In the meantime, I wanted a better solution for our current, enter directly into the living room, plan.

Mostly, I just wanted a way to easily store shoes and jackets without it being a complete eye sore. I had my heart set on this awesome shoe dresser from Ikea (seen on another favorite blog, I Heart Organizing). I was all set to head out the door to Ikea, but realized that with out entryway (or lack there of) it just wouldn't make sense. The feng shui would be completely off. It would have felt so awkward to walk in the door and then have to walk around the shoe storage thingy. This is when I started to think of other options. I may be quite the linear thinker, but every now and then I can do a little outside the box style thinking and come up with something awesome.

Source

Since the hubby can pretty much create anything that I think up (I know ladies, calm down, he's all mine!), I returned to our original idea of creating a separation, a divider of some kind, in between the doorway and the rest of the living room. The room is not that large to begin with, so a little part of me was nervous to take away square footage, yet I couldn't shake that good ol' cliche, "less is more" and decided we were on the right track. Last year, during the thick of the remodel, we picked up this baby at a second hand store and planned to sand and paint it as a small room divider. Since I really wanted a way to corral all our shoes (I love my hubby, but I am constantly tripping over his damn shoes. Ok, to his credit, Charlie our dog has now taken up the habit of picking up shoes when someone comes over and he gets excited and we haven't figured out how to train him to put them back!), the divider no longer seemed appropriate.

Our Second Hand find!

That's when Phil and I worked together to design a half wall with a built in bench. Because Phil is so amazing, he had the wall built almost as quickly as we had taken to design it on paper. Now when you enter the house you will have a place to sit and take off your shoes (and then a place to hide them away...I'm thinking cute baskets) and a place to hang your coat and purse and scarf and mittens (Oh, winter in Seattle!). Phil still needs to trim the top of the half wall and paint or stain the bench seat and trim. We need to put up cute hooks on the entry wall and I'd like to find a cute system for mail and to hang our keys.

Already it feels like a huge improvement. Already, less space does feel like more. I have big dreams for updating the furniture in the living room (I'm thinking light and airy. White and grey furniture with a sisal rug. I want it to match our beachy feeling landscaping out front. Stay tuned!

The Entryway coming together

Created more distinct separation between the entry and the bedroom/bathroom area

Defined shoe storage space! Baskets to come!

Mail drop

Featured With Love- Lynette Kaber & Thirty One

2013-02-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

Lynette Kaber is not just your average business owner. Lynette is a fun, young, thrifty, creative, organized, and crafty mother of a 4 year old boy. She is hard working (hello civil engineering degree!) and supportive (her hubby has done one tour in Iraq and two in Afghanistan!). When Lynette married my big cousin, Tim, we couldn't believe our luck to have gained such a wonderful addition to the family. Lynette constantly inspires and amazes me with her get it done and do it yourself attitude. I am also often impressed by her thoughtfulness and generosity (see the sweet deal for a charity of your choice that she's set up for you at the bottom of this post!). Lynette is trustworthy, loyal, considerate and someone I would love to be able to work with. If you are in need of some organizing at home (hello New Year's resolutions!) or just feeling like something cute, Lynette has wonderful products to offer as a representative of Thirty One. Thirty One has so many great organizational options. I have a fun black and white tote bag that I just love and I have been pondering their new fabric hanging file folders. I've done too much talking already, let me have Lynette tell you more about herself and what she does.

Where did you come up with the idea for your business?
A friend signed up as a consultant and raved about it so much that I just had to sign up too!

What steps did you take to make it a reality?
Thirty One is so simple to get into, you just need $99 and the kit is yours!

What does your company do?
Thirty One is a direct sales company with purses, tote bags, lunch thermals, and tons of great home organization products!

What is your dream/vision for the future of your company?
I would love for my Thirty One business to provide us the extra income needed to travel more now that our son is old enough to remember and appreciate the places we go.

What makes you passionate about your job?
I love the products, especially all the fun patterns! It is always so rewarding to know that the products help others become more organized or help them tote around all their items with ease!

How can readers get involved or hire you?
They can visit my website at www.mythirtyone.com/LynetteK or email me at lynettekaber@gmail.com

If you like __________ then you will like this company.
Purses and totes

What valuable lessons have you learned since the beginning?
A business is what you make of it, zero effort in = zero results

What do you do for fun/relaxation outside of your job?
Crafting and spending time with my son!

Social media is _______________.
An incredible way to keep in touch with those that are far away.

What is your favorite thing about GrowingSoundRoots?
Getting to see photos of adorable little Micah!

***Now that you know about Lynette and about My Thirty One, Lynette has offered to donate 20 % of all GrowingSoundRoots generated sales to a charity of your choice! I am really eying those awesome pocket wall organizers. What looks interesting to you? How do you think you'd put a Thirty One item to good use?

http://www.mythirtyone.com/LynetteK

www.mythirtyone.com

Wonderful pattern options

Goes with everything!

Such awesome storage!

Live It In A Day- San Francisco

2013-02-03T22:04:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked by a good friend for recommendations on what to do while she was in San Diego. Then I was asked by another friend for recommendations on what to do in San Francisco. Thus spawned this series, Live It In A Day. When recommending places, I often think about trying to give someone a true feel for the place. I am aware that time is usually a factor. I also know that impressions of an entire city, state, country can stem from just one day with those limited interactions. I was fortunate enough to do a lot of cruising with my family while growing up and thus my impression of entire countries is based on the few interactions and locations of one day. Since I have been fortunate to live in five different cities for long enough to be called a local and have traveled to many more in whirlwind style, I thought it would be fun to bring you the following segment: Live It In a Day. Enjoy!

This may sound silly, but if you only have one day in San Francisco and you could only do one thing in that whole day...you have to go to a Giants game! Seriously! You get to see the bay, the bridge, you can do some of the best people watching, you can eat some of the best food from one of the greatest foodie cities, and see the 2010/2012 World Champion team! If it is baseball season and the Giants are playing a home game...you must go! No ifs ands or buts about it!

If you are not in town during baseball season or a home game or if you happen to have more time, then the following would be my recommendations. Yes a lot of these locations are touristy, but sometimes being touristy is ok. Sometimes it's still really fun, especially in a place like San Francisco. Keep in mind that while I consider San Francisco one of my most well known cities and my home city, I actually grew up twenty minutes south of the city (which to local urban true SFians, might as well be as far away as New York.). It was always a dream of mine to live in The City (as we locals call it) and while that live in a sweet SF apartment ship has pretty much sailed, I did kind of get to cross live in SF off my bucket list when I lived in a hostal in the Tenderloin district (one of the skechier parts of town) for three weeks in 2007 while working at a school in Japan town. Here is what I like to do when a friend or family member visits with me (especially if they have never been to SF before):

1. Start out with a morning drive on 19th Avenue, to Brotherhood Way, and over to the Great Highway. Take a brisk walk along Ocean Beach and then drive up to the Cliff House and the ruins of the Sutro Baths. Yes, even San Francisco has ancient ruins! Ok, so they are mid-twentieth century ruins, but I've always been absolutely fascinated by stories and pictures from the hey day of the Sutro baths and Playland By the Beach. There are photos and explanations of the history to look at while you are there.

Watching the turtles at Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park

2. Drive through Golden Gate Park. After Balboa Park down in San Diego, this is one of my absolute favorite parks in the world. Just like Balboa Park, Golden Gate Park is a hub for culture, museums and nature right smack in the middle of the city. If you only have the one day in SF, just take a short walk around Stow Lake and by the exteriors of the DeYoung Museum and the Academy of Sciences. If you have more time, definitely go to the Academy of Sciences and if you like art museums, you won't be disappointed with the DeYoung.

View of the Golden Gate Bridge from Fort Point

3. Next I like to head up for the view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Yes, you can walk/run/bike/rollerblade it, however if your time is limited there are plenty of amazing locations to just snap some photos and enjoy gorgeous views (even if it's foggy). One way is to find the old bunkers located just south of the bridge and take short little strolls snapping your typical shots of the bridge (which, my ancestor Joseph Strauss was in charge of building! You can visit his statue if you do decide to get out of your car and walk across.). I have two other ways that I love to view the bridge and the city. One is from Fort Point, directly below the bridge, and the other is by driving across the bridge into Marin and taking the first exit down to Fort Baker (if you have kids and have extra time there is a fun Children's Discovery Museum located here too that I would recommend).

Palace of Fine Arts; Home to the Exploratorium

4. By now, it is likely around lunch time and so after you drive past the Palace of Fine Arts (again, if you have an extended trip and especially if you are traveling with children, I would absolutely recommend going inside the Exploratorium museum for a few hours of fun.) and drive past the Marina, you can silence your growling tummies a bit longer in order to see the ever so famous Lombard Street, the world's curviest steepest street. Don't worry about not being able to drive it as I have successfully made it down in a limo on prom night! If limo's can do it, you can too!

The Mexicatessen in the Mission District

5. There are so many amazing restaurants and foodie neighborhoods in San Francisco. My families go to whenever relatives come into town is Chinatown. My dad loves a lot of the smaller restaurants, but I've been going to R & G Lounge for a long time since I am still in love with their Salt and Pepper Crab (although it can be quiet pricey) and then we always walk around and visit the Fortune Cookie Factory too (which is down a very small back alley and you'll have to ask around to find it). North Beach is great if you love Italian food. There are so many amazing cafes and restaurants in areas like Noe Valley, Pacific Heights, and the Castro. My other favorite area to grab lunch in The City is the Mission District. Aside from San Diego, it is by far the best Mexican food you can get outside of Mexico. There are tons of places to choose from, but my favorite is the Mexicatessen. I love their blue corn tamales and their guac is unreal! And if you end up going to the Mission district, you have to walk around and tour the amazingly colorful murals that are scattered throughout the area. But, if this is your only stop in California, you just may need to do In N Out Burger instead!

It seems like you could stumble in to most restaurants in SF and be completely satisfied with the quality of food and service. My parents are constantly venturing into The City just to try new places. I know I am not helping with your decision for lunch time, but I feel that you really can't go wrong (as long as you find a small local restaurant that is...you are in SF, so my best advice is No chain restaurants!)

6. So, SF is such a large city, with so many unique neighborhoods, that you might feel like you are driving all around. There really isn't a great logical trajectory of how to see SF in just a day. I would head down to the waterfront next. Pier 39 is the touristy place to go, but I would skip it (or walk through super quickly) and head over to Fisherman's Wharf, the Gharridelli Chocalate Factory, and my favorite...the Musee Mecanique (it has old arcade games and videos mostly from Playland by the Beach). It is a good break from such a busy day, especially if you have children. Don't forget to snag a sundae at Gharridelli, but I recommend sharing because they truly are huge!

7. At this point your feet are starting to get insanely tired, but you've got to keep on truckin! If you are female, a trip to SF is not complete without a little shopping, of course. Union Square is fun to walk around, but if you are limited on time and want to find the best stores all in one place, head straight for San Francisco Center. I am not big on shopping, but this mall is like two malls in one! It seems to have every store you could want! And, the food court is pretty tasty with some local restaurants and healthier choices, so it's great for a midday snack.

8. For dinner, refer to my #5. Too many great places. Something for every budget too!

The fun found at Slide

9. Nightlife in SF has a wide variety as well and is pretty fun. I think that even though it's touristy, the Starlight Lounge at the top of the Sir Francis Drake is super fun. That's in the Union Square area. Also super fun (assuming it is still a happening place since I went there way back in 2008 for my bachelorette party and in 2010 for my best friend's bachelorette party!) is the club, Slide. Back in my early 20's (haha!) my live-in-the-city friends took me to the Dragon Bar in the North Beach area a few times and that whole area was poppin off! I haven't been here yet, but I am dying to get to ______ a speakeasy style bar. Another fun place is the bar at the Redwood Room. It's more of a lounge than club.

49ers Football on Sundays!

10. If you are in SF on a Sunday, I highly recommend a visit to Glide Memorial Church. They have an amazing choir, wonderful diversity among their community. and inspiring sermons. When you are done at Glide, don't forget to head to a local sports bar to cheer on the 49ers during football season. Hopefully you'll be watching the 2013 Super Bowl champions! ;-)

Do you live in or near The City? What else would you recommend that people see and do? I was very vague about restaurants...what are your favorites? Have any of you done something so totally touristy in SF and just loved it? What about any favorite secret local spots? Let us know in the comments section! Thanks!

San Francisco Bay Area on Dwellable