Being tall isn't easy.
In high school most boys are half your height and the tall ones are uber-awkward (aka "not cool"). You can't fit in most clothes (legs are too long). Your clothing size is twice the size the "popular girls" are wearing. You are always asked "can you get that for me?" by random people when you're shopping.
It isn't until you get older that you appreciate height. When those "popular girls" become, well, average.
You can walk into any room - and everyone knows you are there (both a blessing and a curse). It's a silent, but strong presence.
I have vowed to teach my daughter to love and cherish her height.
So - to my littlest darling: Be proud. Be strong and hold your head high. Wear heals. Stand straight; don't slouch (it's so unbecoming). Embrace your height. Understand you will be a threat to some women. And please don't ever worry - real men (forget those high school boys) will love you for it.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Hoi Hoi
Yesterday I caught two men winking at Chase (no, they were not winking at me).
The day before that, I caught a little old woman playing hide-and-seek with her. Last weekend a German man started talking to her while I was walking - he just came up beside me, kept pace and carried on a nice little German conversation with her and then said goodbye and went on his way.
At first it was a little overwhelming (we literally get significant attention from 3-5 people every time we leave the house), but I have come to realize that Chase is now actively engaging people. If I sit down at a restaurant/cafe/tram, she quickly surveys her surroundings, catches someone's eye and flashes a beautiful smile.
For the most part, she gets a big smile back, along with some German baby talk. "Hoi Hoi" is common (it's the same as hello). They also like to "click" at babies here (the sound made when your tongue in on the roof of your mouth). She loves it.
She actually gets sad if she can't get a response. She'll try again and again, until she realizes she isn't getting anywhere. She'll then spend about 2 seconds reflecting on the friend she could have had, and then moves on to the next unsuspecting adult. It's adorable.
But then I think to myself ... hmmm, she's only 6-months-old.
And then I remind myself that she's going to be a tall glass of water when she grows up (on track to be at least 6' tall - if not 6'1"), so she might as well get used to the attention now.
The day before that, I caught a little old woman playing hide-and-seek with her. Last weekend a German man started talking to her while I was walking - he just came up beside me, kept pace and carried on a nice little German conversation with her and then said goodbye and went on his way.
At first it was a little overwhelming (we literally get significant attention from 3-5 people every time we leave the house), but I have come to realize that Chase is now actively engaging people. If I sit down at a restaurant/cafe/tram, she quickly surveys her surroundings, catches someone's eye and flashes a beautiful smile.
For the most part, she gets a big smile back, along with some German baby talk. "Hoi Hoi" is common (it's the same as hello). They also like to "click" at babies here (the sound made when your tongue in on the roof of your mouth). She loves it.
She actually gets sad if she can't get a response. She'll try again and again, until she realizes she isn't getting anywhere. She'll then spend about 2 seconds reflecting on the friend she could have had, and then moves on to the next unsuspecting adult. It's adorable.
But then I think to myself ... hmmm, she's only 6-months-old.
And then I remind myself that she's going to be a tall glass of water when she grows up (on track to be at least 6' tall - if not 6'1"), so she might as well get used to the attention now.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
It's A Sad Day When You Miss BBC Prime
I never thought I would say this (I can hear my friends in London laughing their cotton socks off), but I miss BBC Prime!
They recently took it off the air here - which leaves one English speaking channel - CNN!
Just the thing I want to watch when I'm looking to kick back and relax ... the latest plane hijacking, the school shooting (those poor Amish girls!), and North Korea deciding to "test" nuclear weapons.
Yah, that will make me sleep better at night ...
They recently took it off the air here - which leaves one English speaking channel - CNN!
Just the thing I want to watch when I'm looking to kick back and relax ... the latest plane hijacking, the school shooting (those poor Amish girls!), and North Korea deciding to "test" nuclear weapons.
Yah, that will make me sleep better at night ...
Pumpkin Regatta
Worth checking out for a good laugh!
http://www.juckerfarmart.ch/jahresprogramm/0610_kuerbisregatta.php
http://www.juckerfarmart.ch/jahresprogramm/0610_kuerbisregatta.php
Monday, October 02, 2006
Turners Visit Zurich
We just finished up a lovely weekend with Matt & Christina Turner. We toured the city - and ate loads of cheese, chocolate and pastries. By the end of the weekend you couldn't tell them apart from the locals.
Thanks so much for making the trip out to see us!
Thanks so much for making the trip out to see us!
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Happy New Year ( Rosh Hashanah)
Last weekend, a friend invited us to celebrate Rosh Hashanah.
Having never celebrated it before, I did some quick online research and found that Rosh Hashanah literally means the head of the year and commemorates the anniversary of the creation of the world. I also discovered the traditional gift is a honey pot (good to know).
We were welcomed by the sweet smell of chicken, kugel and carrot Tzimmes. When dinner was ready, we (along with about 12 other guests) gathered around the table and listened to our hostesses explain the significance of the food on the table (see below).
Round Challah: Symbolizes a perfect year to come. Sometimes raisins or honey can be added to make it extra sweet.
Apples & Honey: Dip the apples in honey to symbolize the wish for a sweet year to come.
Head of Fish: Symbolizes fertility and abundance. The head of the fish symbolizes the New Year, as well as the hope that the Jewish people will lead other nations through their righteous acts.
Head of Lamb: Symbolizes the hope that the Jewish people will lead other nations through their righteousness.
Tzimmes: Carrots symbolize the hope to increase good deeds in the coming year.
Spinach: Symbolizes a green year with plenty of produce.
Rice: Symbolizes abundance.
The food and company could not have been better. Chase thoroughly enjoyed herself. She didn't want to miss a thing - but around the fourth course, her eyelids became too heavy and she just couldn't keep them open.
I left the festivities full, happy and wondering why there isn't more symbolism to the New Year we celebrate. Sure, there are parties (symbolizing celebration of the old year and new year), and then there's watching the ball drop in Times Square (symbolizing a count down), but that's really about it. Sure it's fun, but it just feels like it's missing something.
So I have decided that I will just have to create my own New Year traditions, borrowing bits and pieces from other countries and religions that I have been exposed to and enjoy most.
Having never celebrated it before, I did some quick online research and found that Rosh Hashanah literally means the head of the year and commemorates the anniversary of the creation of the world. I also discovered the traditional gift is a honey pot (good to know).
We were welcomed by the sweet smell of chicken, kugel and carrot Tzimmes. When dinner was ready, we (along with about 12 other guests) gathered around the table and listened to our hostesses explain the significance of the food on the table (see below).
Round Challah: Symbolizes a perfect year to come. Sometimes raisins or honey can be added to make it extra sweet.
Apples & Honey: Dip the apples in honey to symbolize the wish for a sweet year to come.
Head of Fish: Symbolizes fertility and abundance. The head of the fish symbolizes the New Year, as well as the hope that the Jewish people will lead other nations through their righteous acts.
Head of Lamb: Symbolizes the hope that the Jewish people will lead other nations through their righteousness.
Tzimmes: Carrots symbolize the hope to increase good deeds in the coming year.
Spinach: Symbolizes a green year with plenty of produce.
Rice: Symbolizes abundance.
The food and company could not have been better. Chase thoroughly enjoyed herself. She didn't want to miss a thing - but around the fourth course, her eyelids became too heavy and she just couldn't keep them open.
I left the festivities full, happy and wondering why there isn't more symbolism to the New Year we celebrate. Sure, there are parties (symbolizing celebration of the old year and new year), and then there's watching the ball drop in Times Square (symbolizing a count down), but that's really about it. Sure it's fun, but it just feels like it's missing something.
So I have decided that I will just have to create my own New Year traditions, borrowing bits and pieces from other countries and religions that I have been exposed to and enjoy most.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Chase's Carp Kite
Special thanks to Grandpa Mark for sending Chase a lovely, Japanese carp kite (which symbolizes strength and courage).
In Japan, it is customary for every family to erect a bamboo pole in their garden (on Children's Day) and fly a carp kite for every member of the family. The oldest son has the largest kite (shocker).
I wonder how big Prince Hisahito's carp kite is - I'm thinking it might be a little bigger than Chase's carp kite.
In Japan, it is customary for every family to erect a bamboo pole in their garden (on Children's Day) and fly a carp kite for every member of the family. The oldest son has the largest kite (shocker).
I wonder how big Prince Hisahito's carp kite is - I'm thinking it might be a little bigger than Chase's carp kite.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Allbrittons Move To Asia
China (Dalian). Japan (Tokyo). Singapore (like Dallas, TX).
Brian has been offered amazing opportunities in Asia.
Now we must decide which one is the best fit.
Should know by end of this week.
Stay tuned...
Brian has been offered amazing opportunities in Asia.
Now we must decide which one is the best fit.
Should know by end of this week.
Stay tuned...
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Littlest CEO
She knows what she wants and knows how to get it.
I arrange her meals, play dates, travel schedule, "down time," exercise (baby yoga) and daily spa therapy (tub soak, baby massage and aromatherapy).
She can call on me at anytime to discuss anything; I am available to her around the clock.
I take the minutes from our meetings, and work against her deadlines on deliverables (one bottle, coming right up!)
I brief her on upcoming events, things she's going to do, and people she's going to meet. At the end of each day, I debrief her (how was it, did she like little Suzie, would she consider playing with little Suzie again).
I provide translation services (French and baby sign).
I clean up her messes with a smile.
But I must say, even at the end of the day when I am absolutely exhausted ... being Chase's PA is the best job I've ever had.
I arrange her meals, play dates, travel schedule, "down time," exercise (baby yoga) and daily spa therapy (tub soak, baby massage and aromatherapy).
She can call on me at anytime to discuss anything; I am available to her around the clock.
I take the minutes from our meetings, and work against her deadlines on deliverables (one bottle, coming right up!)
I brief her on upcoming events, things she's going to do, and people she's going to meet. At the end of each day, I debrief her (how was it, did she like little Suzie, would she consider playing with little Suzie again).
I provide translation services (French and baby sign).
I clean up her messes with a smile.
But I must say, even at the end of the day when I am absolutely exhausted ... being Chase's PA is the best job I've ever had.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Solids: You Are What You Eat
Now that I have read "Super Baby Food" (about a thousand times) I feel (super?) confident about introducing solids. The book is extremely thorough. I especially like Ruth Yaron's "Super Porridge" concept, although I can't imagine Chase enjoying it with the recommended Brewers Yeast, desiccated liver and sea kelp (I can just imagine how popular she'd be if I served some up to her friends during a slumber party).
Funny how things from your childhood come back to haunt you once you have a child of your own. I remember my mom (bless her) used to work her tail off to get me to eat (and enjoy) healthy food. I remember veggie cars (celery body, carrot wheels - held together with toothpicks) and plastic Easter eggs filled with grapes. I remember that I could choose my own breakfast cereal, but sugar could not be one of the first three ingredients (this knocks out everything except whole grain cheerios and wheeties). Dinner was usually something uber healthy - I recall a lot of tofu. I, of course, only wanted to eat candy, twinkies, donuts, lunchables (they were so rad!) ding dongs and costco muffin tops.
So my parents came up with a plan. A donut dinner. No kidding. All the donuts I could stuff in my face in one sitting. Of course I ate so many that I felt ill afterwards; it took a good, long while before I wanted a donut again (also worth mentioning the fact that I quickly became the coolest kid on the block when my friends found out I had a donut dinner).
Now as a grown-up, I can certainly see where my parents were coming from (and I thank them for their continued efforts). I want my daughter to be healthy, of course, but still enjoy junk food on occasion. For me, the fact I couldn't have it made me want it all the more (a reoccurring theme in my life, as it turns out).
But as we all know, children today are in bad shape!
The NDP (NDEP is a partnership of the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and more than 200 public and private organizations) indicates that:
- Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in school-aged children.
- In theUnited States
- Ten to 15 percent of children and teens are overweight – about double the number of two decades ago – increasing numbers of young people have type 2 diabetes.
So how does one find a balance between Super Porridge with sea kelp and donut dinners?
Now there's food for thought....
Funny how things from your childhood come back to haunt you once you have a child of your own. I remember my mom (bless her) used to work her tail off to get me to eat (and enjoy) healthy food. I remember veggie cars (celery body, carrot wheels - held together with toothpicks) and plastic Easter eggs filled with grapes. I remember that I could choose my own breakfast cereal, but sugar could not be one of the first three ingredients (this knocks out everything except whole grain cheerios and wheeties). Dinner was usually something uber healthy - I recall a lot of tofu. I, of course, only wanted to eat candy, twinkies, donuts, lunchables (they were so rad!) ding dongs and costco muffin tops.
So my parents came up with a plan. A donut dinner. No kidding. All the donuts I could stuff in my face in one sitting. Of course I ate so many that I felt ill afterwards; it took a good, long while before I wanted a donut again (also worth mentioning the fact that I quickly became the coolest kid on the block when my friends found out I had a donut dinner).
Now as a grown-up, I can certainly see where my parents were coming from (and I thank them for their continued efforts). I want my daughter to be healthy, of course, but still enjoy junk food on occasion. For me, the fact I couldn't have it made me want it all the more (a reoccurring theme in my life, as it turns out).
But as we all know, children today are in bad shape!
The NDP (NDEP is a partnership of the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and more than 200 public and private organizations) indicates that:
- Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in school-aged children.
- In the
- Ten to 15 percent of children and teens are overweight – about double the number of two decades ago – increasing numbers of young people have type 2 diabetes.
So how does one find a balance between Super Porridge with sea kelp and donut dinners?
Now there's food for thought....
Sunday, September 17, 2006
6 Month Pediatrician Report
As a reminder, Chase was born in the 25th percentile, but then slipped down to the 2nd percentile (weight, height, head circ.) just before we arrived in Switzerland.
Our pediatrician was pleased to find the littlest "Tallbritton" is now in the 92nd percentile for height (tall? shocker!) and the 75th percentile for weight (and head circ).
I will miss our pediatrician (as we are most likely leaving Zurich in October). He is kind, sweet and gentle. He also has a way of making me worry less about things in general.
Our conversations go like this:
"I'm a little worried about Chase. She grunts at things. Her whole body gets rigid, like it's taking every last piece of her being to focus on an object, but she can't tell me what it is she needs or wants." I say.
"Do her eyes roll back in her head and does she start to convulse?" He asks.
"No," I say.
"Then you have nothing to worry about," he says.
- or -
"My daughter has been covered in a rash for four days." I say, panicked.
"Does she have a fever? Do the red spots have a core that is filled with liquid? Is she having trouble eating? Is she acting differently?" He asks.
"No," I say.
"Then you have nothing to worry about. Call me back if it gets worse, or if anything changes. Children around 6 months break out into rashes. It should go away in a couple days."
So I have decided his approach is a good way to evaluate things that come up in life. As a natural worrier, I have many opportunities each day.
Here's an example: First, I must think of something that makes me worry (hmmm, okay, a fifth international move in 8 years). Second, I must think of things that could make it harder/worse (i.e., having triplets due the same day). Third, I can then be happy that the harder/worse thing isn't happening (Phew! It is so much easier to move with one baby, rather than four). Fourth, feel relieved and get a good night sleep.
Our pediatrician was pleased to find the littlest "Tallbritton" is now in the 92nd percentile for height (tall? shocker!) and the 75th percentile for weight (and head circ).
I will miss our pediatrician (as we are most likely leaving Zurich in October). He is kind, sweet and gentle. He also has a way of making me worry less about things in general.
Our conversations go like this:
"I'm a little worried about Chase. She grunts at things. Her whole body gets rigid, like it's taking every last piece of her being to focus on an object, but she can't tell me what it is she needs or wants." I say.
"Do her eyes roll back in her head and does she start to convulse?" He asks.
"No," I say.
"Then you have nothing to worry about," he says.
- or -
"My daughter has been covered in a rash for four days." I say, panicked.
"Does she have a fever? Do the red spots have a core that is filled with liquid? Is she having trouble eating? Is she acting differently?" He asks.
"No," I say.
"Then you have nothing to worry about. Call me back if it gets worse, or if anything changes. Children around 6 months break out into rashes. It should go away in a couple days."
So I have decided his approach is a good way to evaluate things that come up in life. As a natural worrier, I have many opportunities each day.
Here's an example: First, I must think of something that makes me worry (hmmm, okay, a fifth international move in 8 years). Second, I must think of things that could make it harder/worse (i.e., having triplets due the same day). Third, I can then be happy that the harder/worse thing isn't happening (Phew! It is so much easier to move with one baby, rather than four). Fourth, feel relieved and get a good night sleep.
6 Months!
Six months of sleep deprivation.
Six months of changing diapers.
Six months of sneaking into my daughter's bedroom while she is asleep to make sure she is still breathing (yes, I'm one of those crazy, overconcerned mothers).
Six months of singing "good morning to you."
Six months of looking into my daughter's eyes, wondering what she's thinking as she looks into mine.
Six months of watching in awe as Chase grows, learns, evolves and matures - getting stronger and more independent with each day.
Six months of strong, unwavering support from my darling husband.
Six months of counting my blessings.
Six months of eating cheese and chocolate every day (I really need to cut back).
Six months of being amazed, scared, overwhelmed - and happier than I ever thought possible.
My lovely Chase, your Daddy and I feel so blessed to have you in our life. We cherish every moment we spend with you. You are so amazing. So sweet. So strong. So good natured. So adventurous. Such a good sport.
We love you more than words can possibly describe.
Six months of changing diapers.
Six months of sneaking into my daughter's bedroom while she is asleep to make sure she is still breathing (yes, I'm one of those crazy, overconcerned mothers).
Six months of singing "good morning to you."
Six months of looking into my daughter's eyes, wondering what she's thinking as she looks into mine.
Six months of watching in awe as Chase grows, learns, evolves and matures - getting stronger and more independent with each day.
Six months of strong, unwavering support from my darling husband.
Six months of counting my blessings.
Six months of eating cheese and chocolate every day (I really need to cut back).
Six months of being amazed, scared, overwhelmed - and happier than I ever thought possible.
My lovely Chase, your Daddy and I feel so blessed to have you in our life. We cherish every moment we spend with you. You are so amazing. So sweet. So strong. So good natured. So adventurous. Such a good sport.
We love you more than words can possibly describe.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Monday, September 11, 2006
Another Funny
I was putting Chase down for a nap yesterday.
We were both on our backs on her bed (as an aside - I just don't get why people buy cribs - the mattress on the floor works so well).
I was watching her, whispering "hush, hush." She wasn't her usual sleepy self; I could tell she was thinking about something (she furls her brow).
She then proceeds to takes her pacifier out of her mouth and try to put it in mine. She then bursts out into hysterical laughter.
So I pretended to suck on it, which made her laugh and laugh and laugh.
We were both on our backs on her bed (as an aside - I just don't get why people buy cribs - the mattress on the floor works so well).
I was watching her, whispering "hush, hush." She wasn't her usual sleepy self; I could tell she was thinking about something (she furls her brow).
She then proceeds to takes her pacifier out of her mouth and try to put it in mine. She then bursts out into hysterical laughter.
So I pretended to suck on it, which made her laugh and laugh and laugh.
Swiss Holiday: Boy's Shooting Match
Today is the Boy's Shooting Match - an official holiday in Zurich.
Military training for Swiss youth can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Shooting practise for Zurich youths was first described in 1576 but the actual Knabenschiessen competition was first documented in the second half of the 17th century. As Zurich traditions go, the Knabenschiessen for 12–16 year-old boys on the second weekend in September is second only to the spring Sechseläuten, which bids farewell to winter. However the shooting match has only existed in its present form since 1899. Thousands of boys - and recently girls - take part in the competition for youngsters at Albisgüetli. Each competitor has five shots and the winner receives great honours with his/her picture appearing in every Zurich newspaper.
Military training for Swiss youth can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Shooting practise for Zurich youths was first described in 1576 but the actual Knabenschiessen competition was first documented in the second half of the 17th century. As Zurich traditions go, the Knabenschiessen for 12–16 year-old boys on the second weekend in September is second only to the spring Sechseläuten, which bids farewell to winter. However the shooting match has only existed in its present form since 1899. Thousands of boys - and recently girls - take part in the competition for youngsters at Albisgüetli. Each competitor has five shots and the winner receives great honours with his/her picture appearing in every Zurich newspaper.
The «Shooting King» receives an old Zurich coin on three silver chains and may choose an award from the prize table. In addition, as a guest of the Baker’s Guild, the winner is invited to the Sechseläuten banquet, attended by representatives of the Government, high-ranking Swiss Army officials and members of Zurich’s Guilds.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)