Reflection Part One

(Photo: Bing Images)

Motherhood. By far, my biggest achievement of the year! To be even more accurate, my entire life!

A lot of people are asking me how I'm balancing motherhood and my career.  Let's be honest here.  I bounce back and forth constantly with being a SAHM or a teacher. I miss him when I'm at work and constantly stare at his picture on my desk.  However, this gigantic transition has been pretty smooth because I have a wonderful mother-in-law who takes care of him and us.  I also have a job that allows me to be home early enough to spend quality time with him.

I am now a mother, daughter, wife, sister, friend, and teacher. I am trying to balance it all and yet still find time for me. Not an easy task, but worth every second. It has been a beautiful year.

My sister has two children and is currently taking courses to pursue a second masters.  She mentioned the fact that I need to give up something.  I chose technology.  I'm not on the phone much anymore, Facebook for a quick check, even my blog is suffering! Sigh.

Back to my focus, my reason for writing this. My title is Reflection and I am reflecting on what I have learned so far about motherhood. (Hopefully I don't sound too harsh!)

1.  It's important not to forget about yourself. You still need some days and/or nights without the baby. What happened to the pictures of your world (ie: friends) before the baby? I try to have nights out with my husband, family, or friends without taking Jake.  I love my son with my whole heart, but this still needs to happen every once in awhile.

2. Working doesn't make anyone any less of a mother.  Don't feel guilty if you need or want to go back to work.  There are perks to being at work believe it or not.  A social worker at my school mentioned she enjoys her 40 minute lunch breaks and bathroom breaks without interruptions! (lol)

3. Ignore those that don't agree with you not breastfeeding.  Congrats to all the mothers who accomplished breastfeeding.  It takes a lot of time and dedication.  However, you don't know why that mother is not breastfeeding.  Perhaps it was an easy decision or there was a problem or complication.  If you see a bottle of formula RELAX, the baby is still receiving good nutrition. 

4. Ignore the milestones that other children have.  I can't stand comparisons.  Take a moment to compare yourself with someone that is in your life.  Notices the differences?  We are all meant to be different.  Look different, act different, etc. Life would be incredibly boring if we were all the same. Same concept with babies. Differences should be embraced not judged.

5. Ignore the "perfect babies"!! So a baby is meeting his or her milestones, never cries, always smiles, sleeps through the night pretty much since birth, and so on. We have all met "those" before. Well I think when your kid turns 18 and is still considered perfect, then I'll high five you! :)

(One of my nephew's had to sleep in a car seat for months after birth because his acid reflux was so bad and another nephew of mine constantly cried.  Both are now amazing young men who have made some impressive decisions in their lives.)

6. Best advice given to me: Do what you feel is best and when you're ready to do it.  If you're not ready to take your baby out to the store solo, it's okay, TRUST ME!  I had a c-section (6 weeks to recover!) and a husband who works a lot of hours and I truly didn't feel comfortable with doing this.  I now live by those words given to me. Ignore what others think....... 

I love my son and that's all that matters.

Stocking Ideas

(Photo: Pinterest)

Christmas is around the corner!  What are you asking for this year?  Is it just me, or are a lot of adult Christmas stockings neglected??   Maybe it's just mine?! 

As a kid, I could always rely on some small gift(s) in my stocking.  As an adult, my stocking simply became nothing more than a decoration for our fireplace.
Well it's time to bring the tradition back to life! I'm asking my husband for some goodies in my stocking this year. My stocking will no longer be for decoration use only! :)

If you're thinking your stocking needs some TLC this year, here's several of my favorite products that can make for some great stocking stuffers:

1.    Alien Perfume- strange name, but I've received a lot of compliments.  I've been using this for years, an oldie but goodie in my book. 

2.  Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant-my absolute favorite.  The scent is heavenly!

3. Diorshow Mascara-hands down the best mascara out there.  Pair it with the Diorshow Maximizer Lash Primer=amazing!

4. Kiehl's Creme de Corps body lotion-a lifesaver during these cold, dry winter months. 

5. EOS lip balm-odd shape, but comes in many different flavors.  Try the sweet mint, it's my fave.

Or if you feel like you've been extra nice this year and not naughty, ask "Santa" for something like a wallet. I recently purchased this Kate Spade wallet.  (What can I say? I'm a sucker for polka dots!)

Any ideas for my stocking?  Any products out there that you adore?

"My Auntie from NY is in...

...and she took all of these adorable pictures of me."

Thanks Katrina-we all missed you!

Hot Chocolate 5K

So I... didn't train as much as I should have for this race.
So I...don't really exercise. That includes running. Sad, I know.

So I ...ate donuts, sweets, (thank you teachers lounge)
and leftover Halloween candy the entire week before the race.

So I... decided to "let loose" at my cousin's daughter's benefit the night before.

What really matters about this race is the fact I have a friend that wouldn't leave my side.

We almost missed the race, ran (like the people in the airport scene in the movie Home Alone) to get to the race, joined a random corral last minute, and danced to Gangnam Style at the starting line. 

Once we began the race, she ran next to me and kept encouraging me to continue. (If it wasn't for her, I probably would've stopped about 10 times!)  Joanna ran a half marathon so trust me when I say a 5K is a warm up for her!

With Thanksgiving around the corner....I am thankful to have such an amazing friend in my life.

PS:

Did I mention how fun she is?  She took this pic w/me even though she didn't break a sweat.

Love you Jo!

Dear Jake, (0-4 Months)

So on Daddy's birthday (last night) we decided to put you in your crib for the WHOLE night!  It was a big deal to Mommy because the sound of you breathing right next to me, made me feel so incredibly relaxed, content, and happy.  

There are things I don't want to forget to tell you--moments that we shared together as a family.  Here is a list that I kept for the past three months.  (From birth till present, in no particular order):

Our families camped out in the waiting room and occupied the entire space anxiously waiting for you to arrive! Two of your aunts stayed at the hospital for forty eight hours, refusing to go home because they wanted to meet you so badly.  You put mommy through 42 hours of labor so I expect for your number to be 42 when you grow up to play sports! :)

Your first cry was the most amazing sound that we have ever heard.  I could finally breathe after so many months of worrying about you!

The three of us shared alone time together in our private room before they took you to the nursery so that everyone else could see you.  Daddy and I had tears streaming down our cheeks, holding you for the very first time together as a family. 

You had on "MC Hammer" pants in the hospital as part of your departure outfit.  You couldn't fit into a newborn size, so we had to put you in three months pants.  I couldn't look at you without laughing because those pants were gigantic on you and it hurt Mommy's boo boo too much to laugh!  

I cried in the car on the way home from the hospital when a Rockabye Baby Coldplay song came on.  It was so fitting and I felt so blessed staring at you.

Daddy went above and beyond taking care of me & you in the hospital and at home. Our love for each other soared and reached an entirely new level.  

You sometimes make this adorable "ahhhh" sound while you sleep. 

Your smiles melt my heart!  You smile the most when you are sleeping, when you first wake up, and whenever you are trying to have a conversation.

You have so many different poses that you create while you sleep. 

You clench your fists while you drink your milk.

I love watching your feet move around while I feed you.  You are so content when you are eating--you get that from me because I love to eat!! :)

When you play "in the zoo" you love grabbing the dangling animals and you try to talk to them. 

I love to kiss your tiny little toes and feet!

There is no one on Earth better to snuggle with than you!

Daddy gives you more baths than Mommy.  Mommy is terrified to bathe you, so Daddy takes over and  is convinced you are the next Michael Phelps!

I love the way you touch the back of your hair.  You make this curious face and it is as if you are thinking "what is this?"   

I love to hold you and dance around the house with you in my arms and when I'm changing your diapers, sometimes I do a little dance by snapping my fingers and swaying back and forth and you always have the biggest smile!

Mini milestones:
Oct. 2nd: you did a 360 on your playmat.

Oct 6th: you turned on your side.

Oct. 11th: you flipped yourself around and landed on your tummy!

I love you so much Jake and can't wait for more special moments with you!

Love, Mommy (& Daddy)

Oz Park

I am sitting on a park bench, writing and this is my view.  A view of nature...an utter feeling of peace from within. This is the first time I have ever done something like this.  I typically don't like to go certain places by myself, and at times I can easily label myself somewhat of an introvert. Too shy to do anything like this solo.  Always caring what others are thinking which can quite possibly be my biggest flaw.

As I walked around taking pictures, I quickly learned that everyone has the same agenda prior to walking into the park--and that is to relax. As I look around, people are exercising, spending time with their children, a loved one, or walking their dogs.  My personal favorite?  People are here to breathe in the fresh air, unwind, and to relieve stress.  That's why I am here!
I had somewhat of a "meltdown" yesterday because I am worried. Worried about a very close family member and worried about what others are going through that are close to me.  I have friendships that I need to invest more time in, and sadly, one that is fading.

See the scarecrow?  

A trip to the park completely clears your mind and you will leave feeling calm and filled with peace.  Doctors should write a "you need a trip to the park" prescription to make individuals feel better!!  

Thank you Oz Park for giving me the courage (hello Cowardly Lion) to write on a park bench and take pictures without anyone by my side. Time to go home (shout out to Dorothy) and see my son's smile that melts my heart (quick reference to the Tin Man).

:)

Sept. 11th

(Photo: iphone)

I have my days when I'm driving to work dreading my day, just thinking....

I think of... how exhausted I am.  I think of... wanting to curl up on the couch with my son-both of us in pajama mode all day.  I think of... the day when I will be a stay at home mom.  I think of... how I need to wake up because my students need to see the upbeat, positive, non-sluggish side of me as soon as they walk into my classroom.  And then before I know it, I am lost in a sea of random thoughts.

I decided to return to work because this school year is different from the rest.  This is the year I officially become a tenured teacher (insert applause here) and it is the year I get my refund from the state. Yes, kind of shallow I know, but heck I deserve it!  :)

But seriously who am I kidding?  These reasons are minuscule.  I work for the daily gratification that I receive.  For the days like today when we started class with a discussion about September 11th and ended class with a roomful of heartfelt letters dedicated to firefighters. Not only did my students write letters, they also contributed to the purchase of a gift card for the local fire station.  (Yes, I'm smiling too!)  

I'm hoping my son understands my reasoning on why I'm not home with him. I hope he supports mommy, knowing she is helping close to one hundred kids a day.   :)

Back to School

Setting up my classroom takes me forever because I need things organized and freakishly neat :)  Every time I finish my classroom, I can't help but feel a bit nostalgic, but excited. Here's a glimpse into my "second home" until June:

Close up:

Happy First Day of School to me!

I Heart the Summer

(Photo: My Instagram)

The current season holds a special place in my heart because of the birth of my son. I'm having a difficult time grasping the fact that I will be back at work tomorrow. Summer and my status as a full-time mommy has come to an end...well...until next summer.  

 Here are the reasons why I love the fall, winter, spring, and 

summer:

Al fresco dining

Bright, vibrant colors chosen for mani/pedis

Feeling coarse sand between my toes

Sun kissed cheeks

Bronzed skin

Coconut scented ANYTHING

Sunglasses officially become a must have accessory

Ice cold drinks have an effortless way of satisfying a thirsty palate 

Swimming and other outdoor activities

And my favorite....summer break!

As I've said before, I love experiencing all of the seasons!

Today

(Our front door)

"When one door closes in life, another one opens."

This quote has been popping in and out of my head all day.  I have embraced this new and exciting chapter in my life and I feel, well to put it simply, changed.  And you know what?  I am really liking this change because I am one hundred percent ready for it. 

A Bit of Bragging :)

Sometimes all it takes is beautiful photography to brighten your day.  

(Yes, I did take this picture!) :)

Have a great week! 

A Closer View

It is important to decorate a room that truly captures what is important to you.  As I'm writing this, I took a moment to quickly glance at random items in my living room.  I have picture frames everywhere! All of the pictures that I have scattered across the room, signifies how much I value my family and friends.  

Before I created the theme for Jake's nursery, I pondered the question of what is something that Tom and I like equally??  He is a Chicago Bears fanatic, but I decided against a sports theme because it is common and I'm not into it as much as he is.  (I chose to incorporate his love for the Bears into other things.)

We both love the water.  There is nothing in this world that creates such stillness and calmness within than seeing a cerulean body of water.  When we are near a lake or an ocean, daily stress suddenly vanishes into the air.  A large body of water can bring on various activities such as boating, fishing, jet-skiing, swimming, etc.  Tom and I take an avid interest in all of the above and that is why we created a nautical nursery for our son.  Here's a close up of some decorations:

Lighthouse (Pier1) and Message in a Bottle (PBK) 

 Not really nautical related, but I had to have this!  My husband is a project engineer and I thought what a perfect way to display his career and an ultrasound picture.  And not just any ultrasound picture-this is our "it's a boy" sonogram! (Images by Ellyn) 

  I use this sailboat to hold Jake's diapers. (PBK)

Pirate Ship Wheel (Amazon)

 This wall decal was the first item that I purchased for his nursery. (PBK)

 Handmade items are the best! My niece Hannah made this for Jake and I plan on putting one of his newborn shots in this adorable frame!

Shop around! 

Jake's Nautical Nursery

I never thought I would want to know the gender, so I picked a neutral color for the room that would one day become a nursery. And as you all know, I changed my mind and the room changed from yellow to blue for our little boy.  

before...

                    

His first item in his closet:

(Been a bit preoccupied these days so I apologize for the "I could've done better" photography and for these pictures being so late!)

What You Can Learn From Ann

 (Some of my favorites of us)

Life as we know it involves following a timeline-graduate, marry, have children, etc.  All in that order and most of us are placing invisible check marks next to each milestone we accomplish as we proceed through life. When I watch reality shows (embarrassing I know), I have to ask myself why am I wasting precious time watching a show that revolves around privileged women complaining they are not married with children at the young age of thirty? (Yes, Kim Kardashian and Paris Hilton I'm talking to you!)  People always compare themselves to others.

A book that is purely dedicated to rules that everyone must follow is nonexistent. There are people who choose not to get married, not to have children, have children before marriage, etc. Does society have us brainwashed to believe these people are different or abnormal from everyone else?  My answer is do as you please and don't let others sway your decision.  Even I waited to have my first child. 

Ann has always stood very tall on her decision not to start a family.  I always respected her choice and think of her as a role model for everyone that is scared to do and be"different".  She once asked me if she was selfish for not wanting children.  Absolutely not.  Her decision will never change the type of person she is. She is a friend that truly cares, is honest, and a natural when it comes to being a good person at heart.  Honestly, I respect her for doing what SHE wants to do and not following the path many have chosen to walk. Let's all learn from her and remember to follow YOUR OWN heart and if something in your life is different from the person next to you....it is okay! 

(Ann deserves to become a famous actress and I'm proud of her for her upcoming part in Deadly Affairs and a completed Luna commercial.)

Love you! XOXO

A Unique Birthday

(Photo: iphone)

Tom and I experienced oysters for the first time in Puerto Rico.  We have been hooked every since!  The picture above is my oyster birthday cake at GT Fish and Oyster-where we celebrated my 34th.  This birthday exceeds the rest because I am a first time mother.
I'm glad we had our alone time as husband and wife and now I'm glad we can call ourselves a family.

This birthday is simply the best.  

Motherhood

(Photo: Pinterest)

Today I found out (if little Jake doesn't come on his own) that I will be induced the week of the 25th!!! 

We are so excited (and a bit nervous)! The nursery is almost complete, car seat installed, pack and play has been assembled, toys organized, and his newborn clothes have been washed.  This summer is going to be a learning experience and I intend on putting all plans on hold until I feel comfortable.  If I'm not posting much this summer, you know why! 

Happy Anniversary to Me!!

(Photo: Pinterest)

Today marks three years since I've started writing my Paris Cafe blog.  Here is a roundup of some of my favorites throughout the years....

Something Different-my very first entry.

Wimbledon 2009-a marriage related learning experience.

A Long Road-one of my entries that expresses my love for teaching.

Teamwork-trying to explain what my husband does for a living. So proud of him!

Joie De Vivre-a huge part of my life was dedicated to spending time with my girlfriends. C-R-A-Z-Y times, but I'm so happy I got that out of my system before marriage.

25 facts-this one was fun!

Frankie-to try to get people to open their eyes about Pit Bulls.  Frankie is the sweetest dog I have ever owned!

Happy 4th of July-I just love the pictures that I took on our trip to Wisconsin.

Something Simple can be so Meaningful- This one is about a friendship that started off as a seed but blossomed into a beautiful flower.   Thanks for your support Joanna!

Happy New Year-some really good advice.

Favorites? Love to hear why...

I Heart the Spring

(Photo: Peonies in my backyard)

Spring is my favorite season of the year.  Mainly because the weather is not too hot or cold.  In my opinion, the weather is just perfect.  Here are some other reasons why I love the spring:

Flowers are beginning to bloom

Time for BBQ's

Opening our house windows to experience the fresh spring air

Hearing outdoor sounds such as the birds chirping
Peaceful walks 

Nice weather brings on happier people
Summer break is no longer miles away

Tea and hot chocolate gets replaced with refreshing lemonade

Delicious hot fudge sundaes

Pink, mint green, and other pastels are chosen for manis and pedis

A dress with a pair of sandals is an easy decision in the morning

White pants are allowed to be worn again-lol!

Songs sound so much better in the car with the windows rolled down.

What do you love about the spring?

So Proud!

Tom took on the challenge of running the Soldier Field Ten today.  Not sure if he chose to run this particular race because:  A. He wanted to see if he do it or B. He wanted the chance to finish on the 50 yard line @ Soldier Field.  I'm going more with option B because he is a HUGE Chicago Bears fan!  Either way, I am so proud of him.  Here are some pics:

7am shot of the field:

Tom waving to me after finishing the race: 

35 weeks pregnant supporting my man: 

 People are scared to challenge themselves.   Or simply to try something new. Give it a chance!  You might surprise yourself and actually enjoy it.  (Tom is now planning on running a half marathon!) 

A Brief Break

Taking a month off has seriously been one of the best decisions I've made in a long time.  On most days, I woke up with a clear agenda.  How often can we say we have absolutely nothing to do?  For the first time, I took really good care of myself and didn't make too many plans. 

Here's a little peek at some of the things I chose to do:

JUST FOR ME:

Spent time playing with our dog Frankie:

Cooked healthy recipes-thanks Pinterest!

Read books.

Slept in--no alarm clock what-so-ever!  (Totally necessary for a mother to be because sleeping in will soon be a thing of the past). 

I got rid of clothes--like my size 24 Seven and Citizen jeans (doubt I'll be squeezing into those suckers ever again!)

Went on relaxing walks.

Organized Jake's gifts.

Blogged more and checked other blogs more frequently.

Worked on three photo albums--finally have my Puerto Rico pics in an album!

Watched old and newer movies (that I have been meaning to watch) such as The Vow.

Downloaded music that was in some of the movies and shows that I watched.

KIDDOS:

Lunch at Nordstrom with Araceli and her girl Lyla.  

                 Visited the zoo with Nicole, Tori, and her son Landon:                

Lunch with Vasavi and her girls Alaina and Nola:

**Hubby painted nursery! (Pictures coming soon.)

FOOD:

Pulp Kitchen w/friends (check out my two plates of breakfast!)

Maestro's for a girls night out.

The Goddess and the Grocer in Bucktown.

Coopers Hawk with my sisters and mom for Mother's Day. 

Need time to unwind?  Schedule a day just for you!