Showing posts with label not awesome. Show all posts
Showing posts with label not awesome. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Footprints
With the snowstorm we had the other week, Alma's new favorite word is "footprint". To celebrate the cooler weather (and the freezing tile floor in our kitchen), we all invested in some new slippers.
Simon decided to get in on the footprint action by walking around the freshly painted bedroom and then walking across our new cream-colored carpet. Shockingly, I did not kill him immediately. Wait, I mean I didn't kill him ... yet.
Friday, November 4, 2011
October Storm
After a freak snow storm (~6.5 inches) last Friday night, we spent Saturday celebrating the first snow and the lack of damage to our our house ... until later in the day. The casualties, apart from the power which went out on Saturday and didn't come back on until Tuesday night, were that our tree that was splintered from Hurricane Irene last month took a beating and lost another massive branch, blocking the road and just missing a neighbor’s truck. Scary! Evidentally, since the trees still had most of their leaves and the sap had not yet drained to the roots, there were more tree limbs that fell during this storm. Even now, a week later, the town looks like a tornado ran through it and some roads are still closed. In our case, we were lucky that the tree didn't take out the power line like last time, however one of the cables (phone or TV, who knows?) did fall due to the weight of the snow. The fire department came out and simply cut it. Lastly, a branch from a backyard tree broke-off -- again, no added casualties just less shade in the summer. On Monday, Alma and I headed a day early for a planned trip to visit our friends Pat, Carrie and their little baby in Virginia. Joshua had to stick around due to work.
We are hoping that this was not the beginning of a very long winter.
We are hoping that this was not the beginning of a very long winter.
Eating the snow
Fallen Tree
Crafting in a chilly house on Sunday
Friday, October 21, 2011
Saturday, October 15, 2011
22 Months and 30 Weeks
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Rain Damage
While all the rain we received during (and especially after) Hurricane Irene was great for walks with Alma's beloved yard sale-find umbrella, it was hard on our house. Our roof has some serious issues and we've been busy with getting quotes from roofers. Below is Alma reading a book to herself on our front porch as another roofer climbs his ladder to take a look at the damage.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
21 Months Old
I'll admit it: I think Alma is pretty much the ideal child. I love spending my days with her and feel as if we have such a good rhythm to our days and that life is rather easy with her. In prepping for the coming of our next child, I've been trying to think of ways that I want to apply what I've learned with Alma to the next baby's upbringing. Sure, they will be different and we cannot replicate the process, but I just want to be mindful of the current successes and failures that we are experiencing. Here it goes...
Things I'm Happy We Taught Alma/Alma Does on Her Own:
* "All done"/"Not an option" We sign something that looks like so-so (shaking hands with palms open) to mean that we don't have something, something is completed or that something isn't an option. This has been invaluable for us as we don't have to say "no" all the time, but can instead convey that some things just aren't possible. For example, before she could say any words and was just barely signing, I could use it to tell her that at certain times I could not provide something (i.e. nursing, a snack, etc). And nowadays it is useful for telling her that certain activities aren't allowed (i.e. climbing too high on a fence that overlooks the ocean). Alma is great that she generally doesn't push the limits on this sign.
* To say please and thank you. I find that I cannot tolerate a toddler screaming demands at me. But add a little please ("peas" or "bee") and thank you (usually just the sign) in there and I can deal with any demand.
* To sit down when eating. This not only keeps the mess down in the house, decreases the odds of the dog snatching her food and keeps me from having to worry about her choking, but it also creates the situation where eating is something we do on a scheduled basis and not just on the fly. So many other mothers seem to spend all day chasing their kids around trying to get another bite into their mouths. Alma seems to respect the idea of meals and snack times, more by her own nature than my teaching. Although I think the fact that she has to sit down during the process helped to reinforce this.
* To clean up toys before moving to the next activity. She isn't volunteering do to this, but most days she easily jumps in on the suggestion if we help with the process.
* To say "nice". Alma has started using it to acknowledge things she likes. Like when she came into the living room after I hung some new curtains, when she was put into her crib with fresh sheets and when I gave her a cup of milk spiked with a taste of hot chocolate. It is such a sweet sentiment.
* To pray before meals. Alma loves to "circle up" (holding hands), bow her head and close her eyes for a moment of silence before meals. While this is actually something we feel a little bashful about at times -- we don't want to be those people -- it is such a great habit that she usually instigates. And sometimes, if dinner is especially tempting, she will nibble at it without the use of her hands, which is hilarious.
* The idea of "Only Mama's". This concept is applied to food that I don't want to share. Like cookies and miniature candies. When I tell her that certain food is only for me, she solemnly says something like "mama eat mouth" to acknowledge that it is just for me.
* To read books by herself. She will sit for up to an hour looking at books by herself before she demands that you join her and read the words. I love hearing her tell herself the stories that she sees. While I always hate not being a part of the process (the side effect of working from home is that I sometimes have to do some work during the daytime), it's easily one of my favorite things.
Things I Wish I Had Not Taught/Allowed Alma:
* To say "Yuck" This has become a recent favorite word of hers. A word that accompanies pointing at the offending object. Usually that object is whatever I'm eating. Imagine trying to enjoy a salad while your little one repeatedly points in your bowl and screams YUCK, BLAH, YUCK! It's hard enough enjoying a salad some days. Hence the miniature candies, right? Yesterday at the grocery store, the deli counter employee gave Alma a slice of American cheese, to which my darling little girl yelled YUCK. Charming. She also signed "no thank you" but all anyone heard was the yuck comment.
* I got in the habit of only singing "The Ants Go Marching" when putting her down for naps and bedtime and now she won't allow me to sing anything else. I'd like to change it up, but we seem to be too entrenched in the habit. Not such a horrible thing, but worth noting for me.
* While we don't watch much TV during the day -- maybe 30 minutes two days a week -- we have been using it for messy diaper changes. For awhile I just could not get her to sit still and started turning it on for the length of the diaper change to distract her. It started becoming norm. Makes me frustrated; but so does a wiggling bum smearing ... I'll stop there. I think that I've almost curbed this bad habit, but it's been difficult.
* Sitting on my lap when I use the computer. It is impossible to type with a squiggly little one on my lap -- my ever-shrinking lap as my pregnant belly grows -- and I wish that I had never allowed this to be an option.
There are a load of things I'm missing from both lists, but this is what is on my brain today and what I want to remember about my 21-month old.
Things I'm Happy We Taught Alma/Alma Does on Her Own:
* "All done"/"Not an option" We sign something that looks like so-so (shaking hands with palms open) to mean that we don't have something, something is completed or that something isn't an option. This has been invaluable for us as we don't have to say "no" all the time, but can instead convey that some things just aren't possible. For example, before she could say any words and was just barely signing, I could use it to tell her that at certain times I could not provide something (i.e. nursing, a snack, etc). And nowadays it is useful for telling her that certain activities aren't allowed (i.e. climbing too high on a fence that overlooks the ocean). Alma is great that she generally doesn't push the limits on this sign.
* To say please and thank you. I find that I cannot tolerate a toddler screaming demands at me. But add a little please ("peas" or "bee") and thank you (usually just the sign) in there and I can deal with any demand.
* To sit down when eating. This not only keeps the mess down in the house, decreases the odds of the dog snatching her food and keeps me from having to worry about her choking, but it also creates the situation where eating is something we do on a scheduled basis and not just on the fly. So many other mothers seem to spend all day chasing their kids around trying to get another bite into their mouths. Alma seems to respect the idea of meals and snack times, more by her own nature than my teaching. Although I think the fact that she has to sit down during the process helped to reinforce this.
* To clean up toys before moving to the next activity. She isn't volunteering do to this, but most days she easily jumps in on the suggestion if we help with the process.
* To say "nice". Alma has started using it to acknowledge things she likes. Like when she came into the living room after I hung some new curtains, when she was put into her crib with fresh sheets and when I gave her a cup of milk spiked with a taste of hot chocolate. It is such a sweet sentiment.
* To pray before meals. Alma loves to "circle up" (holding hands), bow her head and close her eyes for a moment of silence before meals. While this is actually something we feel a little bashful about at times -- we don't want to be those people -- it is such a great habit that she usually instigates. And sometimes, if dinner is especially tempting, she will nibble at it without the use of her hands, which is hilarious.
* The idea of "Only Mama's". This concept is applied to food that I don't want to share. Like cookies and miniature candies. When I tell her that certain food is only for me, she solemnly says something like "mama eat mouth" to acknowledge that it is just for me.
* To read books by herself. She will sit for up to an hour looking at books by herself before she demands that you join her and read the words. I love hearing her tell herself the stories that she sees. While I always hate not being a part of the process (the side effect of working from home is that I sometimes have to do some work during the daytime), it's easily one of my favorite things.
Things I Wish I Had Not Taught/Allowed Alma:
* To say "Yuck" This has become a recent favorite word of hers. A word that accompanies pointing at the offending object. Usually that object is whatever I'm eating. Imagine trying to enjoy a salad while your little one repeatedly points in your bowl and screams YUCK, BLAH, YUCK! It's hard enough enjoying a salad some days. Hence the miniature candies, right? Yesterday at the grocery store, the deli counter employee gave Alma a slice of American cheese, to which my darling little girl yelled YUCK. Charming. She also signed "no thank you" but all anyone heard was the yuck comment.
* I got in the habit of only singing "The Ants Go Marching" when putting her down for naps and bedtime and now she won't allow me to sing anything else. I'd like to change it up, but we seem to be too entrenched in the habit. Not such a horrible thing, but worth noting for me.
* While we don't watch much TV during the day -- maybe 30 minutes two days a week -- we have been using it for messy diaper changes. For awhile I just could not get her to sit still and started turning it on for the length of the diaper change to distract her. It started becoming norm. Makes me frustrated; but so does a wiggling bum smearing ... I'll stop there. I think that I've almost curbed this bad habit, but it's been difficult.
* Sitting on my lap when I use the computer. It is impossible to type with a squiggly little one on my lap -- my ever-shrinking lap as my pregnant belly grows -- and I wish that I had never allowed this to be an option.
There are a load of things I'm missing from both lists, but this is what is on my brain today and what I want to remember about my 21-month old.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Hurricane Irene
We made it through the storm. The only damage is a little leaking in Alma's room and one of our trees that split and fell on our back fence, just barely missing our house but taking down the power line. We still have power but the line is blocking the road.
The power line originally was draped over someone's car but that person got in their car and drove away!! We could not believe it. Before the road was closed, we were watching out the window to make sure no one was going near the line. But we turned our backs for a moment and the car was gone. Thank goodness nothing horrible happened.
Now if we can just get the neighborhood kids to stop riding their bikes under the line.
Now if we can just get the neighborhood kids to stop riding their bikes under the line.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Update: This Pregnancy
Thus far, this pregnancy has been difficult. Much more difficult than we were envisioning. From being sick all the time, to crazy stress coming from Joshua's work, to lots of sad news (the loss of both of our maternal grandmothers and the sudden/acute sickness of a close friend), it has been a lot to handle. While it is difficult to not enjoy a summer schedule that includes a happy, loving toddler, I have been feeling like we have been cycling quickly between highs and lows.
We only know two things about this new baby:
1. He or she is a healthy baby.
2. The due date is approximately Christmas Day.
Sure, it's good to know the first fact -- ruling out giving birth to puppies or veloceraptors -- but it is a little limited in scope. Girl/Boy? Redhead/Blond? Looks like Alma? Good sleeper? So much yet to learn.
The second fact is, I'll admit, a bit of a downer. We didn't plan to give birth to a Gifty McRudolph, as I've been calling the baby, so close to Christmas. It seems that no one beyond Scott (Alma's godfather) has given us encouraging or even neutral words about this impending birthday. Scott's birthday is December 22 and you cannot imagine someone who loves their birthday more. I am feeling that a child's birthday -- yes, while important -- isn't the most important thing ever. However, seeing as that is one of the only things we know about this child, it has become a critical point and, at times, it is difficult to see as a positive around it. Don't want to have "bummed out" feelings about a new member of the family, but have to admit that I have been stuck in that mire a bit. Granted, I've also been sick for the past four months, which just generally leads to bummed out feelings.
It helps to put the birthday out of mind by thinking about how that will only be one small part of the child's life. Moreover, I've been dreaming on family traditions that we can start for holidays -- birthdays and Christmas' included -- that go a little against the grain but also feel more natural to me.
In general, it is interesting where the mind goes when feeling a little run down by the rest of life. Soon enough I'll feel better -- to be honest, I've been feeling great during the day but still got sick two of the three past mornings -- and can start nesting. I struggle with being in a holding pattern of inactivity.
We only know two things about this new baby:
1. He or she is a healthy baby.
2. The due date is approximately Christmas Day.
Sure, it's good to know the first fact -- ruling out giving birth to puppies or veloceraptors -- but it is a little limited in scope. Girl/Boy? Redhead/Blond? Looks like Alma? Good sleeper? So much yet to learn.
The second fact is, I'll admit, a bit of a downer. We didn't plan to give birth to a Gifty McRudolph, as I've been calling the baby, so close to Christmas. It seems that no one beyond Scott (Alma's godfather) has given us encouraging or even neutral words about this impending birthday. Scott's birthday is December 22 and you cannot imagine someone who loves their birthday more. I am feeling that a child's birthday -- yes, while important -- isn't the most important thing ever. However, seeing as that is one of the only things we know about this child, it has become a critical point and, at times, it is difficult to see as a positive around it. Don't want to have "bummed out" feelings about a new member of the family, but have to admit that I have been stuck in that mire a bit. Granted, I've also been sick for the past four months, which just generally leads to bummed out feelings.
It helps to put the birthday out of mind by thinking about how that will only be one small part of the child's life. Moreover, I've been dreaming on family traditions that we can start for holidays -- birthdays and Christmas' included -- that go a little against the grain but also feel more natural to me.
In general, it is interesting where the mind goes when feeling a little run down by the rest of life. Soon enough I'll feel better -- to be honest, I've been feeling great during the day but still got sick two of the three past mornings -- and can start nesting. I struggle with being in a holding pattern of inactivity.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Vacation Wrap Up
We were lucky enough to have three straight weeks of vacation this summer. Well, one week of "workcation" followed by one week of "memorialization" before a week of actual vacation.
Our first week was spent in Applegate, CA (near Sacramento) for Joshua's work conference. The overarching organization that Joshua, through CUNA, works with, People Improving Communities through Organizing (PICO), is an international non-profit that encourages the employees to bring their families to the yearly week-long work conference. I've been wanting to attend for years but this is the first time that the trip didn't interfere with my own employment. Alma and I spent our days playing with the other 40+ kids in attendance and enjoying the beautiful Jesuit retreat center where the conference was held. And, at night, Joshua and I would hang out on the patio overlooking the pond and share a crossword puzzle.
Sadly, Joshua's grandmother passed at the beginning of June, so we spent the next week with his family celebrating her life. While it was a sad event, it was so nice to have some time with the Chisholm clan when we had not been planning a visit with them for this summer. We were able to spend a day at Santa Monica beach (photo of Alma and me was snapped by Hayden!), some time in the backyard shooting cans with a BB gun, and Alma had plenty of time idolizing her cousin Hayden.
After a wild trip home -- three days of delayed flights, car rides interrupted with me getting sick on the side of the road (yes, that happened more than once), an eventual red-eye flight home with an overly tired toddler -- we were home for 20 hours before leaving for a trip up to the Adirondacks for a week of relaxing with Kate, Neal (a.k.a. Uncle Fun), their pup Rio and our dog Simon. It was a week composed of all the greatest things: best friends (even Simon had his best friend), delicious food, and an amazing house right on Lake Paradox. We spent days hiking, napping, watching the dogs swim until near-drowning fatigue and our nights were long games of Kate beating us at Settlers of Catan.
Our first week was spent in Applegate, CA (near Sacramento) for Joshua's work conference. The overarching organization that Joshua, through CUNA, works with, People Improving Communities through Organizing (PICO), is an international non-profit that encourages the employees to bring their families to the yearly week-long work conference. I've been wanting to attend for years but this is the first time that the trip didn't interfere with my own employment. Alma and I spent our days playing with the other 40+ kids in attendance and enjoying the beautiful Jesuit retreat center where the conference was held. And, at night, Joshua and I would hang out on the patio overlooking the pond and share a crossword puzzle.
Sadly, Joshua's grandmother passed at the beginning of June, so we spent the next week with his family celebrating her life. While it was a sad event, it was so nice to have some time with the Chisholm clan when we had not been planning a visit with them for this summer. We were able to spend a day at Santa Monica beach (photo of Alma and me was snapped by Hayden!), some time in the backyard shooting cans with a BB gun, and Alma had plenty of time idolizing her cousin Hayden.
After a wild trip home -- three days of delayed flights, car rides interrupted with me getting sick on the side of the road (yes, that happened more than once), an eventual red-eye flight home with an overly tired toddler -- we were home for 20 hours before leaving for a trip up to the Adirondacks for a week of relaxing with Kate, Neal (a.k.a. Uncle Fun), their pup Rio and our dog Simon. It was a week composed of all the greatest things: best friends (even Simon had his best friend), delicious food, and an amazing house right on Lake Paradox. We spent days hiking, napping, watching the dogs swim until near-drowning fatigue and our nights were long games of Kate beating us at Settlers of Catan.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Alma's Friend
Thursday, January 20, 2011
The Lack of Napping
Alma recently decided to stop napping. She quit her afternoon nap around Christmas time and is now working on stopping her morning nap. It is kind of driving me crazy. Luckily (?) she has been napping at 5pm when Joshua gets home. This is accomplished by laying on him and they both fall asleep. Then she goes to bed around her regular time, waking throughout the night for 10-15 minutes each time before putting herself back to sleep.
This schedule is tiring. However, I have to realize that, as is everything with having a young child, nothing is permanent and routine is often the solution. I just need to find the new routine in our lives.
This schedule is tiring. However, I have to realize that, as is everything with having a young child, nothing is permanent and routine is often the solution. I just need to find the new routine in our lives.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
APPLES!
Our kitchen was decorated by narissistic apples ...
(two types of apple wallpaper -- a different style is in the kitchen bathroom
... yes, kitchen bathroom -- with a shower, an oddity on its own!)
apple coat rack (one of the million apple items in the kitchen, most of which have now been removed)
apple tile backspace
apples over the oven
ahh, that's better
Friday, August 27, 2010
SOLD! (or sale pending ... whatever)/Shanti the cat
We sold our house this week! Not only that, but we got a fair price that allows us to purchase the house that we like in Bethlehem. Hooray!
When we listed the house on the market, we included the piano with the sale of the house (or we said that we would get rid of it ourselves if they didn't want it). This buyer wants to keep the piano, which makes me kind of happy that the piano will continue to live here. Even though I didn't play it that much, it was a comfort thing to have around and I will miss it.
Actually, I think it ended up being a major selling-point, which is awesome. The piano and the cat -- those are the things she said she liked about the house. I keep thinking, "... and the house itself?" Oh well, she is buying the house so I'm happy with that!
I'm tempted to leave the cat here. Shanti, while cute and soft (major pluses in my book), hasn't always been the best cat to us. Let's take a trip down memory lane to see all the damage she has caused:
Anyway, we are fond of her and just hopeful that our next house won't crumble under her impact.
We close on both houses on September 30th. Now we just have to deal with Joshua commuting for the next month while we also pack the house. Let's just say that I'm tempted to start peeing on the rug these days in frustration at this move. And it isn't like we have hit many snags. I'm just done with the process and ready to be in our new place.
When we listed the house on the market, we included the piano with the sale of the house (or we said that we would get rid of it ourselves if they didn't want it). This buyer wants to keep the piano, which makes me kind of happy that the piano will continue to live here. Even though I didn't play it that much, it was a comfort thing to have around and I will miss it.
Actually, I think it ended up being a major selling-point, which is awesome. The piano and the cat -- those are the things she said she liked about the house. I keep thinking, "... and the house itself?" Oh well, she is buying the house so I'm happy with that!
I'm tempted to leave the cat here. Shanti, while cute and soft (major pluses in my book), hasn't always been the best cat to us. Let's take a trip down memory lane to see all the damage she has caused:
- Flooding the kitchen == new cabinet doors ~$500
- Whenever she has the opportunity, she has been opening the baby's bedroom door at 5:30am, going inside and meowing loudly until the baby wakes up == lots of lost sleep
- Peeing in the upstairs hallway because she didn't seem to like all the cleaning we have been doing for house showings -- the whole house smelled like cat urine because she started using the hallway as a bathroom more than once a day (I know, yuck!) == pull up the carpet in the hallway, finish the wood floors by hand, redo the baseboard trim, purchase a rug to cover up the sub-par work we did on the floors == lots of time (in the midst of everything else going on) and ~$100
- Ripping up the beautiful wallpaper we installed on the closet in our bedroom, just a week after we put it up == two years of living with ripped wallpaper and ~$50 to fix it (below is Alma's cousin Hayden posing with the ripped wallpaper; Hayden helped us remove some of it -- such a good worker!)
We close on both houses on September 30th. Now we just have to deal with Joshua commuting for the next month while we also pack the house. Let's just say that I'm tempted to start peeing on the rug these days in frustration at this move. And it isn't like we have hit many snags. I'm just done with the process and ready to be in our new place.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Update: The Move to the Lehigh Valley
Lots of people have been asking us how the move to the Lehigh Valley is going. Well, from my perspective, it is at a stand-still. Here is the current state of things:
- We found and are under contract with a great house in Bethlehem. The sale is contingent upon the sale of our own house.
- We have someone who has looked at our house three times and is interested in putting down an offer (or so says our agent) but no word yet.
- Joshua's last day of work at CCOP is this Saturday -- a BBQ to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the organization.
- Joshua's first day of work at CUNA is next Wednesday.
- We are not looking forward to his daily commute up to Allentown and how that will mean that he won't see Alma most days. I think that Alma and I may go up there once a week so that we can have some time together. Plus, I hear that Alma's skills as a receptionist are top-notch.
- We are appreciating South Philly in a new way. Even the parts that we don't like seem charming these days, mostly because we know that we won't have to deal with them any more. For example, yesterday at the park we saw a fight between two women. Mid-fight, one lady pulled the other lady's tube top down and the local boys started chanting "Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!" We will miss this wacko place that we have called home.
- We are excited to start a new adventure! I'm especially excited to get to all the projects I've been putting off since we are showing this house (quilts! toys for Alma! dress-making!) and digging into a new house (a library! a craft room! painting walls! a yard for plants!).
Friday, April 9, 2010
A Sad Update on Sam Malkandi
Some of you may remember me mentioning one of my refugee clients from when I worked at the Refugee resettlement Office in Seattle, Sam Malkandi, who was detained by the government for suspicion of terrorism. Sadly, no evidence against him has been found so they are deporting him to cover up their mistake for imprisoning an innocent man for nearly five years. Sam's wife Mali, daughter Nicole and son Arvin do not know where he will be sent or when.
Sam and his family on vacation
The Sunday before Easter, they had their final goodbye. Below is the text from an email from their neighbor, one of the many supporters of the family who fought to have Sam released back to his life in Seattle where he is a home-owner, a business man and a faithful friend to so many in the community.
Let me tell you about today, one of the saddest days of my life ~
I picked up a very nervous Mali, Nicole and Arvin at 10:30 and we headed down to Tacoma. It was tough seeing Nicole coming out of the front door with a large suitcase for her dad, and tears rolling down her face. At times the ride was very silent - something that never happens when with this family! Always lots of conversation and laughs. Arvin kept his mind occupied with his ipod, Nicole looking out the window and fighting the tears, and Mali chewing her gum very quickly.
We arrived at the deportation center at 11:30. The first guard we encountered at the door told us that nobody has their suitcases checked until 4 pm, we'd have to come back later. Mali spoke up to him and told him that ICE had called her 3 times stating that she be there by noon, and that this would include a contact visit with Sam. It took us a few minutes to convince him, and he let us through. Mali and the kids signed in to see Sam, and then were led to a room where they had to watch as officials unloaded the suitcase to document what all was inside, then repack it all. Mali had loaded it with pictures of the kids at various ages with their dad, pictures of their family. I was not allowed to go inside with the family which is what I expected. We learned that ICE had made "special arrangements" for the 12 o'clock suitcase check in and visit, and made it specific that only the 3 of them were allowed inside with Sam. Sam had asked Mali to bring him his wedding ring, which he has not been allowed to wear for the past 4 1/2 years. She was told "no" when she showed that she brought it to give to him. She asked why and was told that she'd have to take it up with ICE tomorrow morning. She asked why she couldn't speak to someone today and was told "they don't work today - it's Sunday!" At this point I was tired of his obvious loss of patience with Mali. Although my husband suggested that I keep my mouth as quiet as possible today, I couldn't help myself and told Mali in front of the guard "They are at home enjoying their families today!" At which point I also told him that as an American citizen I was ashamed and disgusted what was being done to this family and to this man, as his neighbor and friend, I've never seen anything so shameful in my life. He just stared at me, so I continued :) I stated the fact that Sam had been locked up for almost 5 years, Mali chirps in "accused of being terrorist" that he has never had one charge or shred of evidence to the fact of having done anything wrong. I also told him that it was obvious to hundreds of us that he was accused of something, and now those responsible don't have the courage to to right their wrong. At this point he looked at Mali and said "I'm so sorry." He also stated that 9-11 is to thank for all of this. Mali and I both then gave him the "we know you're only the messenger" line and he then stated that he never has any idea what the story is with any of the deportees, he is just carrying out his orders. He was much more respectful and patient however.
For the next 2 hours I sat in a nearby Starbucks and tried to read. Nicole called to say they were ready to be picked up, and when I got there it broke my heart to see the 3 of them standing on the curb. They got into the car and Mali threw her arms around my neck and began to sob - I don't know if you've ever been with a middle eastern woman when she sobs, or if you've seen it on the news, but it is a sound like no other. Arvin tells her she sounds like a ghost booing! The first ten minutes of our ride home, I listened to the 3 of them cry while I cried along with them, and Mali and I held hands. We pulled into Black Angus in Federal Way for dinner.
It was then that Mali told me about parts of their visit. I'm sure I will hear more later. For those of you who really know Mali and Sam, even in the worst of their heartbreak, they can find humor. As we sat down, Mali looked at me and said "This is our deportation dinner" and laughed. She shared that the 3 of them were put into a small room and waited for Sam. When he came in they all hugged for a long time. Sam rubbed Mali's shoulders much of the time as this is what he did at the end of each day when he was at home. He talked to the kids about how much he loved them, what good kids they are, and that they will be together again someday. He told them to listen to their mom, and to respect her always. Mali broke down when she told about watching Sam hug Nicole and Arvin and say goodbye. She said "It kills me to see the dad say goodbye to his kids". The guard came in to tell Sam the visit was over, and Sam replied "Thank you, Sir". Mali apparently lost it a bit at this time, and wasn't able to let go of Sam, crying very hard. Arvin said "Oh mom, you're doing that ghost thing!" and that brought some laughs. Sam also whispered in Mali's ear "Please try to stop crying - it is so much harder for the kids". That was the end of their visit. Sam thanked Mali for loving him so much and for all she has done to fight for his freedom.
Mali talked repeatedly in the car about what a wonderful, good man Sam is. She said she was so proud of how brave he was during their visit, and she knows that he forced himself to be positive, brave and have a happy face for the kids sake. I am sure tonight will not be an easy night for him. I know that when Mali, Nicole and Arvin got home, they were all headed to bed. I've watched them do this for the past 4 1/2 years. When they are sad about their dad, they begin to close their eyes a lot, and you know that they want to disappear from reality for a while.
Still hoping for that miracle, but with the fact that ICE is now giving it their all to get Sam out of the country, and the fact that not one of our senators or congressmen have even responded in any way, it doesn't look like it is going to happen. A good friend of Sam's is driving down in the morning to see if Sam is still there. They will not inform anyone when he's gone, and will not tell Sam or Mali where he is going or when. I spoke with an immigration attorney recently who was in fact aware of Sam's case. She said that it is very obvious that ICE really screwed up here, they know it, and want it to disappear. She also said that she wouldn't be surprised to see this in law books someday.
Thank you for being such wonderful supporters of Sam, Mali, Nicole and Arvin. When this first began, they only had their handful of middle eastern friends, all but one family has disappeared from their lives out of fear of the same thing happening to them. Mali is struggling with a lot of guilt right now, the fact that she begged Sam to come to Seattle to be near her childhood friend. She wishes they had stayed in Texas so this had never happened. She also feels horrible guilt at begging Sam to go to the Northgate Mall their 2nd day here. He wanted to stay at their friends house and watch American TV. Mali doesn't have much of a relationship with this childhood friend anymore, when questioned by the FBI, out of fear she denied remembering taking them to the mall. Mali and Sam are so thrilled with all of their "American friends". Mali's family is so amazed. Mali said Americans are thought of as being very kind. You mean the world to them, and it makes Mali feel safer, and it gives Sam some peace. I can't even begin to tell you what I've learned from knowing Sam and Mali - about faith, family, kindness and appreciation.
Please continue keeping them in your prayers.
With much love,
Joleen
The Sunday before Easter, they had their final goodbye. Below is the text from an email from their neighbor, one of the many supporters of the family who fought to have Sam released back to his life in Seattle where he is a home-owner, a business man and a faithful friend to so many in the community.
Let me tell you about today, one of the saddest days of my life ~
I picked up a very nervous Mali, Nicole and Arvin at 10:30 and we headed down to Tacoma. It was tough seeing Nicole coming out of the front door with a large suitcase for her dad, and tears rolling down her face. At times the ride was very silent - something that never happens when with this family! Always lots of conversation and laughs. Arvin kept his mind occupied with his ipod, Nicole looking out the window and fighting the tears, and Mali chewing her gum very quickly.
We arrived at the deportation center at 11:30. The first guard we encountered at the door told us that nobody has their suitcases checked until 4 pm, we'd have to come back later. Mali spoke up to him and told him that ICE had called her 3 times stating that she be there by noon, and that this would include a contact visit with Sam. It took us a few minutes to convince him, and he let us through. Mali and the kids signed in to see Sam, and then were led to a room where they had to watch as officials unloaded the suitcase to document what all was inside, then repack it all. Mali had loaded it with pictures of the kids at various ages with their dad, pictures of their family. I was not allowed to go inside with the family which is what I expected. We learned that ICE had made "special arrangements" for the 12 o'clock suitcase check in and visit, and made it specific that only the 3 of them were allowed inside with Sam. Sam had asked Mali to bring him his wedding ring, which he has not been allowed to wear for the past 4 1/2 years. She was told "no" when she showed that she brought it to give to him. She asked why and was told that she'd have to take it up with ICE tomorrow morning. She asked why she couldn't speak to someone today and was told "they don't work today - it's Sunday!" At this point I was tired of his obvious loss of patience with Mali. Although my husband suggested that I keep my mouth as quiet as possible today, I couldn't help myself and told Mali in front of the guard "They are at home enjoying their families today!" At which point I also told him that as an American citizen I was ashamed and disgusted what was being done to this family and to this man, as his neighbor and friend, I've never seen anything so shameful in my life. He just stared at me, so I continued :) I stated the fact that Sam had been locked up for almost 5 years, Mali chirps in "accused of being terrorist" that he has never had one charge or shred of evidence to the fact of having done anything wrong. I also told him that it was obvious to hundreds of us that he was accused of something, and now those responsible don't have the courage to to right their wrong. At this point he looked at Mali and said "I'm so sorry." He also stated that 9-11 is to thank for all of this. Mali and I both then gave him the "we know you're only the messenger" line and he then stated that he never has any idea what the story is with any of the deportees, he is just carrying out his orders. He was much more respectful and patient however.
For the next 2 hours I sat in a nearby Starbucks and tried to read. Nicole called to say they were ready to be picked up, and when I got there it broke my heart to see the 3 of them standing on the curb. They got into the car and Mali threw her arms around my neck and began to sob - I don't know if you've ever been with a middle eastern woman when she sobs, or if you've seen it on the news, but it is a sound like no other. Arvin tells her she sounds like a ghost booing! The first ten minutes of our ride home, I listened to the 3 of them cry while I cried along with them, and Mali and I held hands. We pulled into Black Angus in Federal Way for dinner.
It was then that Mali told me about parts of their visit. I'm sure I will hear more later. For those of you who really know Mali and Sam, even in the worst of their heartbreak, they can find humor. As we sat down, Mali looked at me and said "This is our deportation dinner" and laughed. She shared that the 3 of them were put into a small room and waited for Sam. When he came in they all hugged for a long time. Sam rubbed Mali's shoulders much of the time as this is what he did at the end of each day when he was at home. He talked to the kids about how much he loved them, what good kids they are, and that they will be together again someday. He told them to listen to their mom, and to respect her always. Mali broke down when she told about watching Sam hug Nicole and Arvin and say goodbye. She said "It kills me to see the dad say goodbye to his kids". The guard came in to tell Sam the visit was over, and Sam replied "Thank you, Sir". Mali apparently lost it a bit at this time, and wasn't able to let go of Sam, crying very hard. Arvin said "Oh mom, you're doing that ghost thing!" and that brought some laughs. Sam also whispered in Mali's ear "Please try to stop crying - it is so much harder for the kids". That was the end of their visit. Sam thanked Mali for loving him so much and for all she has done to fight for his freedom.
Mali talked repeatedly in the car about what a wonderful, good man Sam is. She said she was so proud of how brave he was during their visit, and she knows that he forced himself to be positive, brave and have a happy face for the kids sake. I am sure tonight will not be an easy night for him. I know that when Mali, Nicole and Arvin got home, they were all headed to bed. I've watched them do this for the past 4 1/2 years. When they are sad about their dad, they begin to close their eyes a lot, and you know that they want to disappear from reality for a while.
Still hoping for that miracle, but with the fact that ICE is now giving it their all to get Sam out of the country, and the fact that not one of our senators or congressmen have even responded in any way, it doesn't look like it is going to happen. A good friend of Sam's is driving down in the morning to see if Sam is still there. They will not inform anyone when he's gone, and will not tell Sam or Mali where he is going or when. I spoke with an immigration attorney recently who was in fact aware of Sam's case. She said that it is very obvious that ICE really screwed up here, they know it, and want it to disappear. She also said that she wouldn't be surprised to see this in law books someday.
Thank you for being such wonderful supporters of Sam, Mali, Nicole and Arvin. When this first began, they only had their handful of middle eastern friends, all but one family has disappeared from their lives out of fear of the same thing happening to them. Mali is struggling with a lot of guilt right now, the fact that she begged Sam to come to Seattle to be near her childhood friend. She wishes they had stayed in Texas so this had never happened. She also feels horrible guilt at begging Sam to go to the Northgate Mall their 2nd day here. He wanted to stay at their friends house and watch American TV. Mali doesn't have much of a relationship with this childhood friend anymore, when questioned by the FBI, out of fear she denied remembering taking them to the mall. Mali and Sam are so thrilled with all of their "American friends". Mali's family is so amazed. Mali said Americans are thought of as being very kind. You mean the world to them, and it makes Mali feel safer, and it gives Sam some peace. I can't even begin to tell you what I've learned from knowing Sam and Mali - about faith, family, kindness and appreciation.
Please continue keeping them in your prayers.
With much love,
Joleen
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
CCOP Sad News
It is with a heavy heart that I write this. Yesterday afternoon Br. Jerry Hudson, O.F.M, Franciscan Brother at St. Anthony of Padua in Cramer Hill went home to God.
The entire St. Anthony community, Br. Jerry’s family, and friends, are asking all of you to keep them in your prayers during this most challenging of times.
For those of you who had the blessing to know or work with Br. Jerry, you knew how his tough exterior and sarcastic nature where just a shell that housed one of the most loving and wonderful hearts that you could ever get to know. And yes, he would hit me for saying this.
Brother Jerry’s smile glowed…that is if you could get him to smile, but on those “rare” occasions you would see his entire face light up, revealing that big ol' heart inside. The best example of this is when Laura and I introduced him to Alma. When told Alma was in the room, he stopped in the middle of his sentence, turned away from us and scurried over to Alma. At this point his face was just one big smile, his eyes lit up, and he and Alma just cooed together for several minutes.
Over the past 3 years I had the opportunity to work closely with Br. Jerry and had seen that he lived and breathed his ministry and serving God’s people. He was a man of few words but his words spoke truth, justice, and love. He loved Camden and for the years he was here he worked hard to make it a brighter and happier place.
CCOP, our family and all of Camden will miss him.
--Joshua
(photo: Joshua and Brother Jerry clearing out growth in the backyard of "Ron's House" in September 2007)
Monday, July 20, 2009
Friends, family, parades, weddings and babies
July has been a busy month for us. Here are some highlights:
Tara, my Minnesota friend who I knew in Seattle who currently lives in Portland, OR (tracking her has become my hobby!), came to visit us in Philadelphia on the way to her brother's wedding in NYC. It was so great to see her -- she is such a great soul. We spent one evening touring Eastern State Penitentiary. It was fun and reminded me of when we toured Alcatraz together.
For the 4th of July, we joined Brian, his son and my parents at a parade. I love small town parades! Here's Brian, Joshua and Charlie the dog enjoying the parade.
Last weekend, I was a pregnant groomsman in Patrick and Carrie's weddings. It was so fun to hang out with "the boys" from college while Joshua had a fun time hanging out with the wives. Highlights included Carrie's butt-wiggling excitement during the ceremony, Adam's best man toast (gosh knows he's done them enough!) and all the little touches that Patrick and Carrie did to make the wedding really special. What a great couple and a good group of friends and family.
My cousin Tara and her fiance Brian had their wedding shower in Clinton, NJ at my aunt and uncle's house. It was fun to see some of my Thompson relatives and meet Brian. We are hoping to attend the wedding but are unsure of how I will be feeling about the long drive up to New England at the beginning of September. 
In super exciting news, Brian and Bridgette welcomed a baby girl this past week. While she was born 11 weeks early, she is a fighter and seems to be doing well thus-far. I'm shy to say more since they are private about baby-related news when it comes to their own family, which I want to respect. Please keep them in your prayers as she continues to grow and develop.
In more baby news, Joshua and I had our 20-week ultrasound today. The baby was moving around so much they had a difficult time analyzing all the body parts. The baby was tucking its legs over its head along with its hands and then spinning around a bunch. I don't even know how that is possible!! But things look great and the baby is on track growth-wise. My parents came along to the ultrasound, too, which was fun. This past week I have started to feel the baby move around more often. It's beginning to feel more real these days.
Tara, my Minnesota friend who I knew in Seattle who currently lives in Portland, OR (tracking her has become my hobby!), came to visit us in Philadelphia on the way to her brother's wedding in NYC. It was so great to see her -- she is such a great soul. We spent one evening touring Eastern State Penitentiary. It was fun and reminded me of when we toured Alcatraz together.
For the 4th of July, we joined Brian, his son and my parents at a parade. I love small town parades! Here's Brian, Joshua and Charlie the dog enjoying the parade.
Last weekend, I was a pregnant groomsman in Patrick and Carrie's weddings. It was so fun to hang out with "the boys" from college while Joshua had a fun time hanging out with the wives. Highlights included Carrie's butt-wiggling excitement during the ceremony, Adam's best man toast (gosh knows he's done them enough!) and all the little touches that Patrick and Carrie did to make the wedding really special. What a great couple and a good group of friends and family.My cousin Tara and her fiance Brian had their wedding shower in Clinton, NJ at my aunt and uncle's house. It was fun to see some of my Thompson relatives and meet Brian. We are hoping to attend the wedding but are unsure of how I will be feeling about the long drive up to New England at the beginning of September. In super exciting news, Brian and Bridgette welcomed a baby girl this past week. While she was born 11 weeks early, she is a fighter and seems to be doing well thus-far. I'm shy to say more since they are private about baby-related news when it comes to their own family, which I want to respect. Please keep them in your prayers as she continues to grow and develop.
In more baby news, Joshua and I had our 20-week ultrasound today. The baby was moving around so much they had a difficult time analyzing all the body parts. The baby was tucking its legs over its head along with its hands and then spinning around a bunch. I don't even know how that is possible!! But things look great and the baby is on track growth-wise. My parents came along to the ultrasound, too, which was fun. This past week I have started to feel the baby move around more often. It's beginning to feel more real these days.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)