I don't hug...sorry

I've done a LOT of reflection since becoming a mom and have come to the realization that I don't hug people. And it's not intentional, done out of spite, or hatred to those around me.

I think all personality traits are formed by your upbringing, what you saw, heard, learned, etc....My parents came from very strict German households, a culture that back then was more focused on work and succeeding than rearing touchy, feely children.

My paternal grandfather was raised by his single mother with his brother. My great grandfather died of the influenze pandemic of 1918, he caught it while nursing his own father. Both men died leaving their wives alone to raise children and get through the Depression. I've observed my now 89 yr. old grandfather enough through the years to see the stiff hugs, buck up attitude to know emotionally where my father came from. My dad has worked HARD to show my sister and I affection and love beyond what his father did.

My maternal grandmother was raised by her single mom with her sister. My great grandfather died of a heart attack at the age of 36, yes, 36 yrs old. My grandmother was 10 and her sister 7. So, my mom grew up with a mommy that also didn't know two sided parental love. Or have roll models for that. Once again my mother has worked hard to fixed the past through her daughters.

I am very blessed to have the parents that I do. For them to realize where they came from and what their children needed, that was not present for them. I got hugs growing up, don't get me wrong. I just have to be REALLY close to you to extend those arms of friendship. The people I hug the most are blood relatives or people that I've known ALL my life. You know those family friends that might as well be blood because they know all your secrets anyways.

I'm sitting here trying to think of the 50+ friends Rich and I have here in Atlanta. I think I've hugged maybe 6. Which makes me sort of sad and mad at myself. What must all of you be thinking! That I'm cold, don't care. The fact of the matter is that I do, be patient with me as I get over some hurdles in my life.

This all being said. That is where I come from. That is my emotional history.

The great Christmas Debate

Rich and I had this problem last year, what do you get an infant for Christmas? They don't even realize the meaning of the day or the traditions behind the celebration.

Last year we decided to start her college fund as her gift, because what would be a better gift for her in the future?!

This year we were stumped for a while, until we went to Texas in early November. Nora discovered dad's sand horseshoe pits! Much fun was had...see video evidence here.



The "hunt" was ON! We decided to go simple and found a great little ladybug sandbox online. Cost a whopping $40, plus shipping. What a DEAL!



I think we are undecided on whether or not she'll have to wait for the gift or not. But seeing as it's so cold for the next few month I can't imagine her using it much. Maybe as an indoor ball pit until spring? OOOOH, that could be fun. Might have to hit the thrift stores for cheap balls......

Nora News

Words

Cheese - ChEEEEE
Bottle - baba
NiteNite - Nienie
Shoes - SHOOOO

Nora has also started 'finding' her tummy.....

Me: Nora where's your tummy
Nora pats tummy
Me: Nora show mama your tummy
Nora picks up shirt puts finger in belly button, giggles. SO sweet!

Foods - She really likes kiwi and rice cake. This week she ate a WHOLE kiwi with breakfast everyday. I'm SO glad she's an adventurous little eater! Although it may change with time it's nice for now.

Qtip Queen.

Nora is now tall enough to reach into our up most bathroom drawers. Last week she discovered the Qtips. ERRRRRR. She thinks they are GREAT! So, every morning she grabs qtips out of the drawer, comes into the bedroom, and proceeds to stuff them between the matress and box springs one at a time. Giggle,....repeat process....