Random Thoughts

on December 29, 2011
in All Posts

photo (57)

  • Tonight, I sang “Pizza in the morning, pizza in the evening, pizza at suppertime. When pizza’s on a bagel, you can have pizza anytime!” while making myself a pizza bagel.  The Husband had no idea what I was talking about because he’s from England, and all of his childhood commercial memories are totally different.  Sad.

 

  • I have serious motivation problems lately.  We are off from work at the clinic, which means I have a bit more free time than usual, and I’ve been wasting away from 11 AM – 3 PM every day.  At that point, I suddenly realize that I have so much to accomplish and spend three hours dashing around like a mad woman, doing laundry, answering emails, and writing articles.  Help me find my mojo again!

 

  • Did anyone else catch this Jezebel article about the NASCAR driver who tweeted that breastfeeding in public is ‘nasty?’   The article is so sarcastic and awesome.

 

  • I went for a 2.0-mile walk with Nicole this evening, and then we got Ben and Jerry’s.  In 50-degree weather.

 

  • I got my hair cut today, and the guy actually high-fived me for not waiting 2 months past my cut’s expiration point to get a trim.  I felt so responsible; it was nice not to talk into the salon and feel totally desperate.  Now if I can just make an appointment to get my teeth cleaned…

 

  • An all-natural deodorant that actually works is hard to find.  For a while, I used the Kiss My Face Patchouli, which was pretty effective except the scent mingles strangely with body odor.  Trust me on this one.  It’s no good. The Lavender option is better.

 

  • The Husband watched a TED Talk today and learned that people should ideally hug each other eight times a day.  Eight.

 

  • On two separate occasions today, both of the dogs accidentally rolled off the couch in mid-snooze.  Everyone is okay. 

 

  • I know I should switch to online banking because it’s cheaper, more efficient, and environmentally friendly, but I really like the process of writing out checks and putting stamps on envelopes.  Weird, right?

 

That is all.  Anyone want a hug?

{ 136 comments }

 

  • Penny December 29, 2011, 8:24 pm

    I wants a hug. *stands with arms outstretched*

    🙂

  • Sana December 29, 2011, 8:28 pm

    Sometimes I don’t like being touched. No hugs for me.

  • Hillary December 29, 2011, 8:28 pm

    I promise you, you will be forever grateful for having switched to online banking. Best idea ever.

  • Liz December 29, 2011, 8:29 pm

    OMG – Doggies rolling off the couch! That is probably the best thing I’ve heard today. I literally laughed out loud. *No pups were harmed in the making of the mid-snooze roll*

    • Liz December 30, 2011, 1:53 am

      Ha! I literally laughed out loud to myself 😉

  • loreejo December 29, 2011, 8:37 pm

    give you a lil free time and you gits your funny on!! 🙂 the jezebel article was ridiculously hilar! ohh “celebrities” and their tweets……sigh

  • Ashley @ This Is The Place December 29, 2011, 8:40 pm

    Your dogs crack me up!

    And online banking is AMAZING. Do it. I promise, you won’t regret it 🙂

    Can I have a hug? This bowl game is intense!

  • Callie @ The Wannabe Athlete December 29, 2011, 8:40 pm

    I just laughed out loud about the dogs rolling off the couch. Does that make me a bad person?

  • HTPDad December 29, 2011, 8:41 pm

    Yes!

  • Jen December 29, 2011, 8:42 pm

    Make your teeth cleaning appointment! Trust me. I didn’t go at all the first time I was pregnant and it made my teeth so much worse than normal!

  • Tricia December 29, 2011, 8:43 pm

    Hahaha.
    1. I’ve been wanting to make pizza bagels lately
    2. Got a few days off of work and want to do nothing!
    3.Nope but I’ve heard about it.
    4. I did an ab work-out from my couch, yes I’m an exhausted bum. And I prefer ice cream in the winter. I made my hs boyfriend take me there for a date in december once.
    5. I refused to tell the hair dresser how long it had been when I finally cut my hair…
    10. I’m afraid of getting hacked!

    • Tricia December 29, 2011, 8:43 pm

      I feel like you were reading my mind today!

    • Tricia December 30, 2011, 7:13 am

      and oh yes ted is right. although some circles say more. there was a lady at my office who was all about the “meaningful touches ie; hugs” so anytime I passed office I’d give her a quick hug and say there’s a meaningful touch for the day!

  • abby December 29, 2011, 8:47 pm

    Writing checks and putting them in the mailbox makes me feel like an adult. Agreed.

  • Kim December 29, 2011, 8:53 pm

    I am having the same motivation/time management problems. I get all my household chores done, meals cooked, exercising done, etc. more efficiently when I’m teaching.

  • Devon @FastFoodie December 29, 2011, 8:59 pm

    I need to watch this TED talk of which you speak. I like hugs. Somewhat related, I watched a TED talk yesterday entitled “10 things you didn’t know about orgasm”. I highly recommend it, it is quite funny.

  • Sarena (The Non-Dairy Queen) December 29, 2011, 9:09 pm

    I have not gotten my hair cut in over a year. I’m chopping in two weeks and donating it. Someone else deserves this wad of hair on my head.

  • Lauren December 29, 2011, 9:10 pm

    Who gave the TED talk? That’s an interesting stat!

  • Nicole of Raspberry Stethoscope December 29, 2011, 9:15 pm

    I can so relate to the significant other not picking up on popular culture references. He’s from the Bosnia.

  • Kate (What Kate is Cooking) December 29, 2011, 9:17 pm

    The only thing worse than men who think breastfeeding is gross is women that do! I work at a daycare at a gym and my co-worker (a mother of three, no less) told a woman to go to the bathroom to breastfeed. WHAT. I had to explain to her that it was natural and uh, her right to feed her child!

  • Cali December 29, 2011, 9:31 pm

    I guess I must be horrible then because I think breastfeeding in public is totally wrong.Just because it’s natural does not mean it needs to be in everyones face.This summer at a park every time we turned around my husband and 9 year old son had a strange womens breast in their face(the same women).She was completely and totally out there.I so badly wanted to tell her to use a cover up.It was uncomfortable to have a womens breast in my son and husabands face.

    • kathy December 29, 2011, 10:24 pm

      Oh how sad for your son to see how a baby is supose to be fed. That is what breast are for. Is your husband grossed out by half naked models.

      • Cali December 30, 2011, 9:34 am

        He is my son and it should be my choice for him to have a strange womens breast in his face.I feel uncomfortable if my husband has some womens naked breast in his face in any situation.No matter what they are doing with it,I don’t want a model,someone on tv,someone breastfeeding or at a beach to have their breast in my husbands face.They should all coverup.Woman breastfeeding aren’t the only ones allowed to have rights and opinions.

        • Rachel December 31, 2011, 6:26 pm

          So this woman had her breast actually in your child and husband’s faces? Were you speaking to her? Was she close enough to touch even? I can understand your discomfort if she was walking around topless, but if she was quietly nursing her hungry child… I just can’t see a problem with that. But I wasn’t there to see it happen so I obviously don’t know the exact circumstances.

    • Vikki December 29, 2011, 10:30 pm

      Maybe this also makes me a terrible person, but I totally agree about public breastfeeding. I’m horribly uncomfortable with it and hope that it doesn’t become the norm in my area. Find a quiet corner, go to the car, turn your back to the room, cover the baby’s head with a blanket, etc. I just don’t want want to see someone else’s bare breast. I realize it is natural and beautiful and all that stuff, but I still don’t want to see anyone’s bare breasts.

      I hear a lot about the rights of women to breastfeed in public and I wonder if anyone cares about my right/preference not to see it?

      • Vikki December 29, 2011, 10:37 pm

        I should note that I do not think breast-feeding is nasty. I just don’t think it is something that should be done in high traffic areas.

        • Vanessa December 30, 2011, 10:20 am

          Here is the thing about breast-feeding… if you don’t like it you can look away! It’s so easy! Just turn your head and look at something else. Like magic!

          • Ilana December 30, 2011, 10:34 am

            eh. when you’re fifteen and your stepmom insists on breast feeding at a table in a restaurant right across from you, there’s not many places you can look or things you can say because she’s super insistent on how natural it is so no one should be grossed out.
            I dont have an opinion on it now, but when I was fifteen it was pretty horrid.
            now, what about public bowel movements or other relief activities? EVERYBODY does them, not just pregnant ladies, so why should they be hidden and shamed?

      • K December 30, 2011, 10:59 am

        If adults can eat in public and chew with their mouths wide open for all to see, why can’t babies be fed? It’s nourishment. OU can look away, but the baby can’t not eat.

        • Megan December 30, 2011, 4:09 pm

          like!!

    • Suzanne December 30, 2011, 9:12 am

      You are not a horrible person. I consider myself pretty open-minded, and would normally describe myself as a feminist, but I think that breastfeeding in public is rude. People should have respect for those around them and not make others feel uncomfortable. There’s nothing wrong with the act of breastfeeding in and of itself… but there’s also nothing wrong with peeing, but I’m not going to do that in public. It is possible to breastfeed discretely though, which is an art many women have not mastered. If you can’t do that, then go in private. I don’t care what you’re using it for, I do NOT want to see your boob.

      • Jen December 30, 2011, 10:25 am

        Breastfeeding in public is rude? Wow. Breasts were made to feed babies; our society sexualized them. Breastfeeding is also hard work! I need to worry if my son is latched right, eating enough, etc. I do not need to worry about what others think of me, though. It makes me so sad that people think this way.

        • J December 30, 2011, 10:34 am

          Would you not be offended if someone pulled out their breast in public without a baby attached to it? Is it really that hard for women to go to their car or a fitting room? I don’t particularly like picking out my produce while I look at someone elses boob. Breastfeeding is not disgusting, to me, but i don’t see why people think it’s ok to at least not cover up.

      • Megan December 30, 2011, 3:53 pm

        I am way more likely to cringe (inwardly, of course) at the sight of a baby being bottle fed. And I could say it makes me uncomfortable to see a baby being fed a manufactured milk product instead of the greatest gift a mother can give to her baby.

        But if I said that, I’d be a rude and judgemental bi-atch.

        • Chantal December 30, 2011, 4:55 pm

          Me too!

        • J December 30, 2011, 8:44 pm

          Cringe at the sight of a woman bottle feeding her baby? THAT makes you uncomfortable? It makes me uncomfortable that you would ASSume that because the woman was using a bottle, that she is feeding her baby a “manufactured milk product instead of the greatest gift a mother can give her baby.” Well, some people are discrete and feed their babies breastmilk in bottles when out and about. Not to mention some women are physically unable to breastfeed and despite their best attempts and desire to breast feed they are unable. Consider those possibilities the next time you judge a mother for the way she chooses to raise her child.

          • Chantal December 30, 2011, 10:45 pm

            I understand that there are those that try with all their might to and just physically cannot breast feed. I have an acquaintance with breast augmentation and she was so torn up because she didn’t produce enough milk, blaming herself for a decision she made when she was younger. My sister in law exclusively bottle feeds her twins with breast milk, pumping every 4 hrs (when they were 1st born) and now has been doing that for 9 months. Now that’s hard and takes a lot of dedication – pumping sucks!

            What I meant when I agreed with Megan is for those that don’t even give breast feeding a chance and know that they will only do formula because “breasts are for my husband”, “it’s gross”, “I don’t want my boobs to sag”, etc, etc. I have had friends say this and it makes me sad.

          • Ilana December 31, 2011, 8:45 am

            now THIS is an illuminating conversation. look how women judge other women for every single choice we make….
            not a good look.

    • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 10:12 am

      Innnnteresting discussion! I want to point out, first of all, that it is LEGAL to publicly breastfed is 45 states. Also, if I had to choose between my child being hungry and publicly breastfeeding, I would breastfed. I do think people should try to be discreet, but I don’t know if I think that means they should have to drape a towel over the kid’s head. In general, I think Americans are REALLY uptight about stuff like this. I would LOVE to have some Europeans weigh in on the debate. I mean, it’s just a boob. We ALL have them (male or female) and I can’t think of less sexual way to use them than as a feeding device. Personally, I have watched a lot of my friends breastfeed right in my face, and it doesn’t bother me… I think it’s magical.

      • Laurie December 30, 2011, 10:24 am

        Agreed with you, Caitlin. As a new breastfeeding mom myself, I make sure to take my “Hooter Hider” with me everywhere I go, but in a pinch, I wouldn’t hesitate to feed my daughter in public. She shouldn’t have to wait to eat or have her meal in a disgusting bathroom!

        • Madeline@food,fitness,and family December 30, 2011, 10:41 am

          I feel the same way. I was out yesterday with the hubs and my MIL had accidentally taken my cover out of my diaper bag. My daughter lost her schmidt while we were at lunch with friends. I tried using a clean napkin to be discreet but some
          Boobage may have slips. That being said. I personally try being discreet because baring myself makes ME uncomfortable. I will do it in a pinch to feed my child though. If I see someone else breastfeeding my heart goes out to them because I know how much it sucks to be trying to get errands done and have your child meltdown from hunger. Try telling a baby to wait until I can find somewhere no on will see me.

      • Tina December 30, 2011, 11:03 am

        I attempted nursing my son in a changing room once. Didn’t work. Stroller, diaper bag, me and baby didn’t fit in the room and I wasn’t about to camp out in the handicap changing room for 20 minutes in the event someone needed it. And let’s not mention how the sound of slamming changing room doors or people knocking on my door to find out if I was done yet. This month I took a train to NYC and watched a breast feeding mother get harassed for using the bathroom–other passengers complained she was taking too long in the bathroom and the train staff accused her of trying to get a free ride (until she showed her ticket). If you’re a nursing mom, you can’t win either way. Nurse where you and your child are safe and comfortable–although I do recommend a cover up for both privacy purposes and because as your child starts noticing things, it will be more difficult for him to concentrate on feeding efficiently.

      • Heather December 30, 2011, 11:04 am

        As a new mum, I definitely am not a breastfeeding superstar yet, so when I have to feed my daughter in public, it takes a little more effort and concentration. I have a nursing canopy, but it’s still often a little bit finicky to use. I will whip my boob out without covering in my own house (with a warning to those around me if we have company) or at my parents house (with the same warning), but when I’m out at a restaurant, mall or anywhere else, I try to use the canopy. That being said, if I’m having a hard time or it’s too hot or something like that, I’ll “expose myself” quickly and as discreetly as possible, get Zoey on and eating, then readjust my shirt / scarf/ blanket so that I’m mostly covered. I don’t think that women have to cover, but whatever is within their own comfort zone is appropriate. If I’m having coffee with a friend or something, I’ll say “do you mind if I just feed her right here?” and that way if the person is uncomfortable, they have the chance to let me know. I’ve seen a lot more boobs and cleavage due to women’s provocative outfits than I have from breastfeeding, so I don’t think people should get too up in arms about it.

      • Angela December 30, 2011, 11:13 am

        Well my British view on this subject is that if you don’t like it don’t look at it. Simple as that. It’s not the mother and babies problem that you or your husbands/sons/whoever can’t separate the sexual and practical functions of a body part. Says more about them than anything else.

      • Lizz @ Leading the Good Life December 30, 2011, 12:13 pm

        What I’m about to say is probably going to make me sound horrible…but I’m curious if other people feel the same way I do about this. I hate when people talk about how beautiful/wonderful/magical being pregnant/giving birth/breastfeeding is. There are many women (and men!) who cannot or choose not to do these things, and sometimes it feels like (to me) we are being talked down to. I, for one, never plan to be pregnant. It’s just not right for me. I may change my mind, and I don’t have to justify that. But right now I really would love to adopt. So when I hear people say things like “there is no better thing in the world than the connection you make with your child while you’re pregnant” I take it very personally. Like they are already telling my hypothetical child that they are starting off at a disadvantage. Truth is, every experience is different and there is no way to know what it’s like to be in someone else’s situation.

        I know this is all a very touchy subject. And I appreciate you for providing a safe platform for discussion. I oftentimes feel like I can’t express how I feel about these things because I DON’T have the experience of being pregnant. But it really is very important to me figure out what’s best for me and my family. So thank you for that!

        • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 12:17 pm

          You can always be open on HTP!

          I think the most beautiful thing is a connection between two people… biological or adoption, mother and child, husband and wife, friend to friend… Love is universal and awesome in all it’s forms.

      • Niki (Running In Pink) December 30, 2011, 8:07 pm

        What I don’t understand is how someone can seriously compare breastfeeding to defecating in public….WHAT????

        I highly doubt that a breastfeeding mom would actually have her breasts in anyone’s face (other than the baby’s). I do think it’s respectful to be discrete, but it’s unnecessary to have to hide.

        I’m sorry there are people so upset about breastfeeding in public. 🙁

        • Ilana December 31, 2011, 8:48 am

          I’m sorry but what’s wrong with defacating? we all need to do it just as much as we need to eat.

          • Niki (Running In Pink) December 31, 2011, 8:39 pm

            True, but we don’t eat poop.

          • Niki (Running In Pink) December 31, 2011, 8:42 pm

            Also, poop is full of germs and potential disease-causing bacteria. I understand your point about it being natural, but one of the reasons we don’t poop in public is because it’s unsanitary. I just think it’s silly to compare it with breastfeeding.

            I’m sure we could go back and forth on this. I guess if someone wanted to poop in a sanitary, public toilet without walls, more power to them? 🙂

    • Amy @loveAmyx December 30, 2011, 11:30 am

      I think that, from what you describe, the lady was lacking discretion. However, I believe that this situation, similar to when you encounter disabled people and the like, is an opportunity to educate your child about what is happening and why. It is a shame more men and women don’t understand the benefits of breastfeeding, especially given the health levels of most ‘developed’ countries.

      love Amy x

      • Marlène December 30, 2011, 12:19 pm

        I strongly believe in breastfeeding whenever, wherever. I also do NOT believe in cover-ups (unless of course your baby is a distracted eater and needs it for better feedings). I truly think that the reason that SO many women have trouble breastfeeding nowadays is because it is no longer normalized and our generation of women never saw it done by the women around us when we were growing up.

        As a breastfeeding mother of a three month old boy, I can tell you how RUDE it is to be expected to segregate myself every time I have to feed my child. Can you imagine eating Christmas dinner in a room all alone because the kid got hungry just as we sat down to eat??

        And when my boy gets older, I will ENCOURAGE him to be inquisitive about bf’ing mothers at the park. I want to teach him what those body parts are really for.

        And one last thing – even the most provocative breastfeeding woman is only going to have her nipple exposed for a short time. I mean, you can’t see it when baby is latched on. But hey, I come from a province (Ontario, Canada) where women are allowed to go topless in public…

        • Chantal December 30, 2011, 2:48 pm

          Love this comment. Children need to see that breastfeeding is normal and need to be surrounded by it in order for the next generations to have a better breastfeeding rate.

    • Emily December 30, 2011, 12:43 pm

      Did you breastfeed yourself? As a breatfeeding mom with twins who actually likes to leave the house on occasion, you gotta do what you gotta do to feed your baby. Would you rather a child screaming bloody murder in your ear or showing a little skin? I think I’m a very modest public nurser, but public just the same. I breastfed my daughter in a carrier walking around Disneyland with a blanket over her head and you know what? I bet no one even knew I was doing it. If my kids are hungry and I’m out, I’m going to feed them. I try to be respectful of people around me and cover up but there might be a quick flash of skin. Just look away. I have 2 babies that need it so they’re usually my priority, not the people around me. Just like you want to do what’s best for your son, I want to do what’s best for my kids.

    • Charmaine December 30, 2011, 2:32 pm

      Unfortunately, I was in the same boat as you while attending college @ UC Berkeley. Public breastfeeding disgusted me. There was a woman in my comparative demographics class breastfeeding her baby in the back of the room and there I was, sitting next to her. Forced to be exposed to her bare breast, the sound of her baby suckling and that smell – I’ll never forget it. It smelled warm and weird and just disgusted me. I hated her for putting me through that. How was I supposed to concentrate with this woman flopping her breast about!

      I pity myself for feeling that way. Even though I never said a word, I still feel guilty for the death glares I gave her. For feeding her child. I’m disgusted by my own ignorance and am shamed by the fact that no one ever told me it was OKAY to breastfeed in public. I was never exposed to breastfeeding while growing up. All I saw were bottles, or nothing at all.

      I hope to never find myself in that boat again. I hope to never judge another woman for feeding her child in public again, simply because it’s done with a body part and not a plastic bottle. I don’t eat with a hood over my head or in a bathroom stall and I would never impose that restriction on someone else.

    • Chantal December 30, 2011, 2:39 pm

      It’s mentality like this why there is such a low breastfeeding rate. I want to quote something that I read, because I couldn’t say it any better myself:

      “It is sad that in today’s very well-educated, intellectually-advanced society that a mother breast feeding her baby is looked upon as a bad thing. At almost any time of the day or night you can turn on your television and see very sexual images of women doing everything from selling consumer products to promoting sporting events and now, as if marching to some moral compass, someone believes that a woman who nourishes her child in a store or at the mall is doing something lewd or distasteful. GROW UP AND WAKE UP AMERICA. I totally support those mothers who are doing what’s best for their child and for themselves. I applaud those mothers who will not be ushered into the restroom or fitting room in shame. I salute those mothers who care enough to stand up and be heard – standing up for themselves, their babies and for what’s right and natural. Let’s change the culture and set the tone – now, now, now.” – Danye Roland

      We need MORE woman like the one you saw at the park. Children need to know that this is the NORMAL way to feed a baby, so that when they grow up they will be more likely to choose to breast feed their child.

    • Chantal December 30, 2011, 2:52 pm

      Also found this link that I thought was fabulous:

      http://naturesmother.wordpress.com/2011/05/10/breastfeeding-in-public-is-offensive-see-for-yourself/

      Majority of mothers are going to be discreet, even without a cover.

      • Cali December 30, 2011, 3:21 pm

        I’m not going to fight with the pro-breastfeeding in public group anymore because it is a pointless fight.None of you will change my mind and it is obvious I am not allowed to have my own opinion on the subject.I did not breastfeed my son and I am just as good a mother as any of you and am tired of being made to feel like I’m not.I don’t think breast need to be out in public for any reason,be it provocative clothing or breastfeeding.It is VERY hard to not look after you turn around and it’s right there in your face.you can only turn your head and not look after the fact.

        • Megan December 30, 2011, 4:01 pm

          And neither will you change your mind!

      • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 4:17 pm

        I liked this link, Chantal!

        Cari – I don’t think it’s a ‘fight’ – I just think people are expressing their thoughts. Some people agree with you!

  • Jilian December 29, 2011, 9:32 pm

    I’ve always been a check writer but two months ago, I had no stamps and a bill that was due so I signed up for online banking…omg! The convenience of online banking trumps the fun of check writing for sure!

  • Lee December 29, 2011, 9:33 pm

    I’ve tried the sport scent of that deodorant and it still smells like patchouli.

  • Lindsay December 29, 2011, 9:34 pm

    “We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.” I heard this in one of my classes I was taking to become a teacher and I incorporate this into my classroom ALL THE TIME! I make my kiddos give me a hug (or high five or hand shake) coming into class and leaving class (I teach 3rd grade) and multiple more in between! Hugs really are so important!

    • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 10:13 am

      aw you sound like an excellent teacher!!!

    • Alyssa December 30, 2011, 10:49 am

      That’s interesting that you heard that. I’m also a teacher, and I’m also pro-hug for my students, but we’ve recently been told not to touch students under any circumstances, and especially not to hug them, for legal reasons. We were actually given directions for what to do if a child comes in for a hug (turn to the side) to avoid being implicated. How sad is that? I would love to totally ignore it, but teachers are losing their jobs in my school district left and right due to false accusations (my husband was among them, he was found innocent but not allowed to be around children for 6 weeks). I not trying to be a Debbie Downer, just thought it was interesting that some places aren’t like that – and a huge relief to hear some teachers can still act, well, like teachers, without fear of losing their jobs! Maybe I should come teach by you?

      • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 10:50 am

        That is so so sad to me. I mean, obviously it’s important to protect children from predators, but it’s also important to show them that adults can be kind and gentle and supportive, too, and yes – sometimes, that means hugs.

  • Annette @ EnjoyYourHealthyLife December 29, 2011, 9:36 pm

    Hah. That is hilarious–good thoughts!

  • Jolene (Homespun Heritage) December 29, 2011, 9:37 pm

    *Eh, don’t be so hard on yourself. Come summer you’ll be begging for some down time. Between puke, poop and pee you’ll be eyeball high in stuff to do and your boring days will be far behind you. Are you a list maker? I love making lists and checking them off as I go. Yes, I even make a list for chores…makes me feel great to check them off!

    *Poor puppers! Is it bad I am snickering at the image of them rolling off the couch!?!? I miss my doggy now (she passed away in November)…ok off to read the article about the not so classy car driver!

    • Jen December 29, 2011, 11:43 pm

      Aww hugs to you– my golden retriever died in May and I still get all teary-eyed thinking about her.

  • Karen @ Run Shop Travel December 29, 2011, 9:42 pm

    Oh my gosh I can’t imagine writing out a bunch of checks and having to constantly buy stamps! I do everything online with the exception of my rent check! I actually need to buy more stamps because my set of 20 is almost out…from almost 2 years ago! Hehe!

  • Lexi @ A Spoonful of Sunshine December 29, 2011, 9:56 pm

    My question: Why not 7 or 9 hugs? hahhaha

  • Electra @ Vanilla Bean Lean December 29, 2011, 10:05 pm

    I’m normally an insane go-go-go chick. I can’t sit still for the life of me and I don’t do “nothing” well. There must be lazy floating around in the air today though! I’m right there with you girl!

    I love that you took a walk and got ice cream in the chilly air. I had a freezing ice blended protein shake today and guess what the temperature is outside? I believe somewhere around 30.

    You’re a rockstar. So is your blog. Just thought I’d let you know 🙂

    • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 10:14 am

      Aw thank you Electra!

  • Em December 29, 2011, 10:07 pm

    I LOVE Weleda’s Sage: http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=189745&catid=180637&aid=337953&aparam=weleda_deodorant_spray_&CAWELAID=182273921

    I love the smell of the rose, but mixed with sweat & it’s awful! Sage is strong enough to be great all day long.

  • Caitlin December 29, 2011, 10:11 pm

    I love your blog! Quick question. Where do you get your hair cut in Charlotte? The salon I usually go to closed recently and I need to find a new place. Any recommendations would be great! Thanks!

    • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 10:14 am

      Oh you MUST go to Salon 42 and see Jason. He is the owner so it is kind of steep BUT he is AMAZINGGGGGGGGGGG. Tell him I sent you!

  • Emily December 29, 2011, 10:23 pm

    I just switched to an all-natural tea tree deodorant, and it does.not.work. Needless to say, gym runs have been sort of embarrassing. I’ve wanted to get into making my own a la Ashley from Edible Perspective, but man, essential oils are expensive!
    I totally get what you mean about the physical act of banking – I love the feel of addressing envelopes and all that jazz – but online banking is SO much less of a hassle! It really is super convenient. Plus, I think Wells Fargo gives some kind of reward for it? (Or, more likely, knowing Wells Fargo, they just waive some fee or something…)

  • Kelly December 29, 2011, 10:26 pm

    “On two separate occasions today, both of the dogs accidentally rolled off the couch in mid-snooze. Everyone is okay. ” <—– This. Awesome. I love your dogs.

    And I'll take a hug any time 🙂

  • Heather December 29, 2011, 10:51 pm

    I sing the pizza bagel song all the time. So sad you can’t share those fun things!

  • Gina @ Running to the Kitchen December 29, 2011, 10:58 pm

    Oh my gosh, I can’t even imagine life without online banking anymore. How have you resisted?! 8 times is a lot of hugs. I just told my husband that and he rolled his eyes. Haha

  • Deva @ Deva by Definition December 29, 2011, 11:00 pm

    I love giving and getting hugs. I am definitely a hugger!

  • Lane December 29, 2011, 11:03 pm

    I am with you on the lack of online banking. Don’t get me wrong, I do not set foot in a physical bank building. But I appreciate the control of mailing in checks. I only have automatic drafts when it is required, but most of my bills I still mail in a check. Also, I’m glad the dogs are ok…I had my 60 lbs basset hound snoring and dreaming as I was finishing up course work. He has previously fallen off the couch trying to get comfortable and not realizing how amazingly large he is.

  • Jenn December 29, 2011, 11:05 pm

    That song is so catchy! I still sing it all the time..but instead of saying pizza I substitute my dog’s name haha. “When lolas on a bagel you can have lola anytime!” Super weird. I know.

    • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 10:15 am

      awww i love it. i’m going to sing this to maggie.

  • Jen December 29, 2011, 11:09 pm

    I’ve been online banking for so long that I actually don’t think I own cheques any more…it’s just so much easier! And lol about the dogs falling while they sleep. One of our cats likes to sleep on top of a bankers box in our spare room and he falls off at least once a day mid-snooze. The best part is watching him get back on the box with a look on his face that says “yes, that was planned…I’m a cat, I’m large and in charge!”

  • alex m December 29, 2011, 11:24 pm

    I’m not a hugger so 8 is about 9 too many for me.

    • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 10:15 am

      lolzzzz

  • Emily December 29, 2011, 11:25 pm

    I’ve tried all the natural deodorants out there and the ONLY one that has ever worked is a little bitty company out of Park City, Utah called Salubritas. The ingredients are impeccable, the story of the company is great, and all the scents are pleasant (I’m currently using the “unscented” because I want my newborn to be able to pick up my “scent” not an essential oil or fragrance).

  • Jen December 29, 2011, 11:40 pm

    Haha I have two older sisters, while my boyfriend is the oldest in his family, so we have a similar memory differences where I’ll reference something and he’ll be like, “whaaat are you talking about?” I have a lot of weirdly out-dated memories from movies from the early 80s before I was even born, like The Worst Witch (if you haven’t seen it, this is all you need to convince you to watch it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmG80v473AI)

  • Ali December 29, 2011, 11:40 pm

    Read the article and loved the sarcastic tone it took. Ahhhh the breastfeeding in public debate…it’s a no win/no win…Especially since those who disagree with it normally do not have children or did not breastfeed. They can not see it from both sides. Whereas I have obviously seen women breastfeed before I had kids and also after experiencing breastfeeding my own child. I would never ever make a negative comment on a subject such as this knowing what a great gift it is and what a blessing a child and parent is to go through it. But, to each their own and it is a pointless debate. People will think what they want! 🙂

  • Jess December 29, 2011, 11:50 pm

    I’d take a hug. I love hugs! But only if people ask first. Surprise hugs make me uncomfortable and my social akwardness shows.

    Also, my cats loved to nap on the back of my old couch and they would fall off all the time. Very, very funny stuff. They are all OK too.

  • Corrie Anne December 30, 2011, 12:09 am

    I WANT EIGHT HUGS!!! That’s so awesome. I laughed aloud about your dogs rolling off the couch. In a nice eway. That’s so cute. Boyd would totally do that too!

  • Rebecca December 30, 2011, 12:13 am

    I like hugs, but I don’t get enough of them. 🙁
    I got my haircut a couple days ago. She’s been cutting my hair for several years, and she remarked that I definitely needed a cut, haha.

  • Khushboo December 30, 2011, 12:23 am

    Eight hugs?? Wow- that sounds like a bit much for a non-hugger like me ha!

  • Jen December 30, 2011, 12:45 am

    I just love you Caitlin (seriously, I do!).

    – Give yourself a break! You accomplish more in an hour than most of us do in a day, but Momma needs her rest!

    – What is with this spring-like weather in December? NOT that I am complaining! 🙂

    – I got my hair cut today too…overdue (embarrassing), but SO happy that I finally got it done!

    – Online banking ROCKS!

    • Jen December 30, 2011, 12:46 am

      Also, hugs are AMAZING…I say, the more, the better! 🙂

      • Jen December 30, 2011, 1:42 am

        OH! And, so funny about the dogs (bless their hearts)! Okay, I am done (I promise!).

    • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 10:16 am

      Aw thank you Jen! Are you in Charlotte too? I am loving this weatherrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

      • Jen December 31, 2011, 1:09 am

        Nope – I’m in St. Louis, but we are (for the most part) experiencing the same spring-like weather. It’s supposed to be 60 degrees here tomorrow…LOVE it!!! 🙂

  • Sue @ Sue In Training December 30, 2011, 2:13 am

    Yes, I want a hug, please! As my husband is travelling for work and I’m currently home alone, I haven’t been hugged in days. I love hugs, if I like the other person, of course.
    Once my husband is back, I’m going to make sure that we both get our eight ‘servings’ each day. 😉
    I can relate to #1. My husband and I did grow up in the same country, but he’s 16 years older than me.

  • Karlee @ BringingBackBalance December 30, 2011, 3:27 am

    Hahah I Looooove it when my dog accidentally rolls off the couch! Kills me everytime lol.

  • Ami@dashofcurry.com December 30, 2011, 6:26 am

    I would definitely consider myself a technologically up-to-date person for the most part, except I too eschew on-line banking! I write checks, and have never even used an ATM! It’s not that I am afraid to– I just prefer not to!

  • Molly @ RDexposed December 30, 2011, 7:24 am

    Crazy how lack of a hair cut can begin to affect women’s health. This is why I think that hair cuts should be covered under health insurance.

    • Jen December 31, 2011, 1:49 am

      That is awesome – you have my vote for president! 🙂

  • Allison December 30, 2011, 8:09 am

    Haha fabulous thoughts… My fiance sings the pizza bagel song all the time [I’ll have to share with him that he’s not the only one :P]! Eight hugs?! From each person? Or eight total in one day?

    P.S. I hope your puppies had a better night sleep than their naps!

  • Kelly December 30, 2011, 8:46 am

    I have never heard that pizza song?!

    And my husband and I hug way more than eight times a day…way more…yay for us! 6 years of marriage and still hugging away! 🙂

  • Isabella December 30, 2011, 8:50 am

    This is really random but did you listen to the Diane Rehm about Girly commercialism? She interviewed a woman who wrote “Cinderella ate my daughter.” It was soooooo fabulous!

    • Caitlin December 30, 2011, 10:19 am

      I have not but I will DEFINITELY seek this out. I am so interested by it.

  • Meaghan (My Spoonful Of Inspiration) December 30, 2011, 9:07 am

    I’m going to make an effort to give 8 hugs today! 🙂

  • Marika December 30, 2011, 9:25 am

    I’m in the same situation as you when it comes to cultural references– my fiance is from Finland, so often I’ll be like, “Remember something-or-other?” and he’ll say, “No, I have no idea what that is.” Having to explain the details of something like Mr. Potato Head or Pop Rocks is kind of fun because it makes you think about it from a whole new perspective :).

  • Anne P December 30, 2011, 9:44 am

    Hahaha I used to LOVE that pizza commercial. Amazing.

  • Axel December 30, 2011, 9:55 am

    Can we get a link to that TED talk? It sounds a lot like my friend Bobby…

  • Carolina John December 30, 2011, 10:38 am

    I could be up for 8 hugs a day. Challenge accepted!

  • Debra December 30, 2011, 10:39 am

    Yes please! I will take my hug now. Thank you.

  • Meg December 30, 2011, 10:45 am

    I’ve heard people need to be touched a certain number of times a day. I always like when my yoga teachers adjust during savasana because I live alone and don’t necessarily always get all mine! And, I mail bills too, but just the other day I realized since I just bought a house with a 30-year mortgage, I’m looking at 360 stamps and the money saved could actually buy me something to decorate the lovely home!

  • Stephanie December 30, 2011, 11:01 am

    The constant battle over public breast-feeding really saddens me. Breastfeeding is the breast’s primary job. It is not an inherently sexual object, but something that our society has sexualized. Women who breastfeed in public aren’t looking to expose themselves, they’re feeding their child. We wouldn’t expect anyone else to go to a public restroom or leave the table to eat their dinner, why should we force babies to do so?

  • Amy @loveAmyx December 30, 2011, 11:20 am

    Breastfeeding in public, yah or nay? So here is my personal view and intention for when I have my baby {for those interested I live in London, UK incase this is a cultural thing}.

    I have seen breastfeeding in public done in a respectful to others and beautiful way. I’ve seen people use scarves, nursing tops etc along with just general common sense and discretion inorder to breastfeed publicly without any hint of ‘flaunting’ either themselves, the act or their boobies.

    However, I have also seen women who have chosen to be pioneers and slightly provocative in their feeding locations. An example is my Auntie who at my 18 birthday gathering chose to feed in a crowd room of youths rather than sleeping into a bedroom or unused living room. She also chose not to be discrete or use any sort of ‘cover-up’.

    Breastfeeding is natural and for me it is how I hope I can provide my baby with nourishment. But I also want to do it in a way that is discrete and respectful to others. I believe it is through behaving like this that the general public will have positive experiences of breastfeeding and in turn we will each be doing a little to work toward turning back the tide on bottlefeeding.

    love Amy x

  • healthy ashley December 30, 2011, 12:10 pm

    Goodness I love pregnant Caitlin.

  • kalyn December 30, 2011, 12:15 pm

    Don’t feel bad about the stamps and mail – you are helping keep the USPS alive! 🙂

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) December 30, 2011, 12:45 pm

    I get my hair trimmed about every 5 months … sometimes I go longer. Ooops.

  • Rebecca December 30, 2011, 1:18 pm

    I am a breastfeeding mother (8 months and going strong) who appreciates the right to nurse whenever and wherever I need to. I am like some of the other commentors who cover up for their own comfort. My little guy does not like his head to be covered while nursing anymore but I will cover him until he latches on then I pull the cover back. I always wear a tank top under my shirts (something I did be for pregnancy anyway)which allows me to nurse discreetly most of the time. I just pull the top shirt up and the bottom shirt down. I do not think that women should be forced to use a cover or go to a separate location but I do think that they should be considerate of others.

  • Amber K December 30, 2011, 1:38 pm

    Ok I’m going to be singing that pizza bagel song all day now. Even though I’ve never actually eaten one. I usually just sing about having pizza anytime, because THAT is something I can get down with.

    Holy comment war! People have such strong opinions about breastfeeding. It’s funny that we don’t seem to get up in arms over anything more important, but babies eating brings out all of the emotions.

  • Chelsea December 30, 2011, 2:05 pm

    My hair is in DESPERATE need of a cut. I just honestly hate spending the money. I’m cheap, I know.

  • Tee @ She Writes, Bites, and Window Shops December 30, 2011, 4:14 pm

    I always sing the bagel bites song when i make a pizza bagel too! And I also still pay certain bills by writing checks – something satisfying about putting it in the mailbox!

  • Catherine December 30, 2011, 6:50 pm

    I’m the same way about bills! I feel so much more accomplished if I send out an actual check and have stamped the envelope. I always freak out about online payments and end up printing the confirmation email or code anyway. So not green. :/

  • Brandy December 30, 2011, 7:45 pm

    I nursed my son for 13.5 months (he self weaned when he started walking) and do not understand the uproar about breastfeeding in public. I have never, EVER, seen a mother “flaunt” her breast while feeding a baby (or “put it in [someone’s] face”). I don’t go to another room or put a blanket over my head when I eat, nor do babies who have bottles. Why would I do that to my son or expect anyone else to either?

    I generally feel that people are uncomfortable with it because they have not spent time enough time with people who breastfeed. And that is exactly why women should continue to nurse in public and normalize breast-feeding.

  • Mary December 30, 2011, 8:23 pm

    I feel the same about writing out checks and mailing them. And who couldn’t use a good hug? I totally remember that commercial, too!

  • Dominique December 30, 2011, 8:26 pm

    Oh Pizza Bagels! I had my first one in my 20s since that kind of food was off-limits when I was young.

    Eight hugs seems like a lot but I’ll try. Sean tried to hug me but I told him my stomach was hurting so already I lost one.

    Online banking is the best–even my parents do it! It is way more fun to write cheques and mail stuff (I used to work at a post office) but the ease and convenience of online banking is way better.

  • Jen December 31, 2011, 12:38 am

    Yes, do online banking. It’ll save you both a lot time AND money (from stamps, envelopes, etc.)…and more environmentally friendly (less waste).

  • Sara January 3, 2012, 11:11 am

    <> I really enjoyed writing out the checks too and thought it was crazy (and maybe unsafe) to do online banking. But the cost of stamps went up and I found you can pay bills closer to the due date (which works better for me) so I gladly switched. Different strokes. But I do like writing checks 🙂

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