Monday, February 7, 2011

My own tiny Darth Vader

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R55e-uHQna0

This commercial played during the Super Bowl yesterday. I have watched it and rewatched it on youtube. Maybe it's because that little boy is so adorable. Maybe it's because he makes me laugh with his oversized Darth helmet and authentic costume. Maybe it's his belief in "The Force." Maybe it's the dad having some fun with his son. I think the biggest reason I love this commercial is because I had a tiny Darth Vader not very long ago. My younger son loves Star Wars and has ever since he was three years old. When he was four he insisted on wearing his Darth Vader costume to Nordstrom.
"Really? This is what you want to wear?"
"Yes." Very adamantly. (The Force was strong in that one. )
Off we went to Nordy's where we were greeted with lots of smiles, a few laughs and many knowing parents' nods. They all know how to pick their battles!
I told my son about his visit to the store in costume. He was mortified!
"Why would you let me embarrass myself like that?"
But it wasn't embarrassing. It was precious. I wish I could have captured it on video so I could relive it and share it. The day I went shopping with the leader of the Dark Side.....I miss that.

Monday, January 24, 2011

2011....already?

I am looking at this blog and realized that my last post was in October. I find myself sporatically posting. It's not that I don't want to write. It's a matter of finding the time. Hopefully 2011 will help me find that time.

Today I want to reflect on the good things in 2010. If you have read my blog you know I had a tough time in early 2010. I want to focus on the positive of 2010 for now.

Grew closer to my Mom than I have ever been. Always knew she was an amazing mother but I know she is a good friend as well.

Took my boys to see the mountains for the first time. They had an incredible time. Grayson would say it was his favorite vacation (over a beach in Florida? Are you my kid???). Both boys had fun playing in any kind of creek or river they could find in Colorado.

Went to the lake with my "inner circle." These girls are my rocks. Sisters from another mother. Partners in crime. The weekend was filled with shopping, drinking, eating, shopping, laughing, more laughing and lots and lots of talking.

Spent a ton of time at the pool with the boys. Wished for an endless summer.

Reconnected with many old friends. Had some great connections with friends from grade school and high school. Friends that are so comfortable that it doesn't feel like there has been any lapse in time between us.

Saw my husband in a whole new light. I have always known Ken is a great guy. He is smart. Funny. Giving. Generous. Industrious. Driven. I have always known that. What I didn't know was how compassionate he could be in a crisis. I still get teary-eyed thinking of how good he was with my mom when my dad was in the hospital. How understanding he was when I was trying to process the whole situation when I knew things would not go the way we wanted. How strong he was in caring for my mom by making all the necessary calls that needed to be made when settling an estate. How generous he was with his time by taking care of my mom's lawn and things around her house. He is my true companion.

Went back to work at the card factory in the most flexible position possible. I thought it was the end of my career there when the restructure occurred in 2009. Now I know that all things happen for a reason and those reasons usually pan out for the best. I love that company. I walked the halls today and talked to old co-workers and felt like I was back home. It's not perfect. Like every big company it has its faults. But for now, for me, it is perfect.

Joined PTO. Never thought I would be this involved in the boys' school but here I am! And I am enjoying it! It's fun to have your finger on the pulse of the place where your kids spend a lot of time. I have met some great people and I feel like we are working toward a common good.

Those were a few highlights. Now onto 2011. I am hopeful that this year will be filled with safety, happiness and health for all my friends and family. Hopeful that my mom will be able to let her grief subside and enjoy her life. Hopeful that I can maintain a positive attitude and do some good this year. Hopeful for some new adventures, lots of fun and tons of laughs. I think it's possible.