The Love and Fear of Flying....

If you know me, there is a chance you know that I don't necessarily have the best relationship with flying.  Or a fondness.  The trouble with this, is that I love flying.  I love the end result.  I love that I can get on a plane and in a matter of hours, I can be anywhere.  With a car, the 'world' out there seems pretty small.  Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of cool things you can see with a car.  But, my preference would be to fly somewhere, then rent a car to take me to see the cool things! 

I first joined the loyalty program for American Airlines on Oct 20, 1998.  Funny enough, it happens to be our anniversary, only 3 years prior.  My job has always required travel.  All 4 of the companies I've worked for since college.  Just on American, I now have logged 1.6MM miles.  This doesn't count my trips on Southwest, Delta or any other airline.  And, I still hate, to a very large degree, flying.  My father was a pilot.  I can't even imagine how many miles he logged.  And, nothing ever happened.  Take-off is really my dreaded part of flying.  My hands get sweaty, I get fidgety in my seat, and more times than not, I think we are going to crash.  Engine failure, plane is off balance, birds in the engine....you name it, it's crossed my mind.  Once I get at a 'comfortable' level, I'm fine.  For the most part.  I've at least come to grips with turbulence.  It doesn't bother me as much any more.  Thank goodness...perhaps in another 1MM miles, I'll figure out that take-off is ok too. 

For the love part though, it goes beyond the destination.  It's the people.  I have somehow had the chance to meet some of the most amazing people on planes.  Don't worry, if you sit next to me, I'm not the crazy one that talks your ear off and ignores the body language signs (or headphones) that says, 'I really don't feel like talking to you, lady'.  I read that pretty quickly.  And, often times, I'm the one giving that sign.  But, many time, I connect with people too.  I met a man who lives on my street in Miami.  He was coming home from a business trip to Iceland, just a few weeks before my first business trip there.  He gave me a restaurant recommendation in Iceland.  I met a woman flying back next to me from London, that lives in my neighborhood and is a good friend of one of my friends.  We just met for drinks the other day.  Flying back from NYC with Olivia, I met a woman who is a retired interior decorator in a nearby neighborhood and we exchanged emails.  I met an extremely successful business woman who invited me to sit with her at a luncheon.  Sitting right next to Madeline Albright.  They are friends.  I've met two older woman, at different times, that were on their way to the Galapagos Islands because it was on their bucket list.  I could go on, but I will spare you.  But, I continue to be amazed.  I've met some pretty fascinating people and all because we just happened to be sitting next to each other on a plane.  It's one of those weird things....if you don't ask, you'll never know who you can meet.  I love people and I love hearing their story. 

So, for all the agony, ulcers and sweaty palms....I'll take the flying.  I read an article the other day talking about the safety of flying and the unlikelihood of anything happening to you.  The article said you'd have to fly everyday for 35,000 days to encounter any issues.  And, that riding on an escalator was more dangerous than flying.  That statement made me laugh enough that I might actually find a way to convince myself that flying is ok. 

Happy Birthday!!

Well, I've decided to resurrect my blog.  I think I took about a six month hiatus.  But, I think I actually like this blog, despite my ability to keep consistent with my writing. 

But, there was an event last week that made me pull this back out.....Luke's Birthday!!  A few years ago, I started writing on Olivia's birthday about all the changes over the prior year.  I kind of like pausing to think about the kids' year in terms of milestones and development.  I'm not that good at keeping a baby book for the kids (I bought two and they are still sitting in their original packages!), so this kind of serves as that outlet for me. 

So.....Luke turned 2!!  As with most babies, I'm sure moving from a one year old blob to an active 2 year old is a big one.  But, it had been awhile since I had a little one, and I just loved this last year.  I never really knew if I wanted a boy.  I was somewhat indifferent.  I knew what to do with a girl, but a boy...I was clueless.  Now, I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.  This kid melts me.  He's my little snuggler.  (so is Olivia).  He 'pats' me on the back each morning as I walk around carrying him.  He gives spontaneous hugs and lays his head down on my shoulder just to give love. 

The other thing about this year that has been amazing to watch is the bond developing between Luke and Olivia.  He can now interact.  He's not just this blob that requires a lot of attention and feeding.  They can entertain themselves while I'm getting dinner ready.  Luke thinks Olivia hung the moon.  The favorite part of my day is watching Luke wake up Olivia for school.  He climbs on her bed and quietly goes over to her to give her kisses to wake her up.  And hugs.  He lays his head on her shoulder.  Then, he gives her more kisses.  The funniest part is that this melts Olivia.....usually she's awake and lays there pretending to be asleep so he'll continue with the love. 

On the flip side, they are also figuring out the sibling bickering.  And, it makes me laugh.  No, I'm not crazy.  But, Olivia was an only child for so long, it's kind of fun to see.  I know it will get worse and I know it won't always be funny.  But for now, while it's harmless, I'm going to enjoy it. 

Luke is all boy!  This past year he's fallen in love with anything related to a sword, light saber, truck or bus.  Buses are his favorite!  Most of you know that.....The only song he wants sung to him at night is 'The Wheels on the Bus'.  I'm really, really tired of this song, but I figure it might not last forever.  Maybe.  He likes me to lay him down in his crib at night, sing the Wheels and rub his belly.  He's a boy that already knows what he wants. 

His attention span when it comes to arts & crafts (or at least drawing) is about 10 seconds.  This is completely different than Olivia.  She could sit there for a pretty long time.  Luke....well, if Olivia is doing homework, he'll sit next to her and play along.  For 10 seconds.  Then, it's on to swords or buses. 

He also vacuums.  A lot.  Kyle loves to vacuum too.  So, we got Luke a little one and he follows Kyle around the house vacuuming each room together.  This, holds his attention for a good 30 minutes. 

My little man that makes me laugh every day........

The Weight of the World

I feel very fortunate to be able to travel.  For the obvious reasons, but more so now, for what stays with me after I get home. 

I'm referring to what's out there that we don't always see.  At first, I thought it was just that we are Americans and somewhat sheltered.  But, the more I think about it, it's just the 'newness' and the awareness that brings things to light. 

Poverty.  Those less fortuante.  Extreme poverty.  This is what I'm talking about.  Ever since coming back from S. Africa, I cannot get one particular picture out of my head. 

It was the last day.  We were in Cape Town enjoying a glorious day, having just returned from up atop Table Mountain.  Cape Town feels like the Meditteranean.  You pretty much forget where you are (Africa).  My colleagues and I were having lunch at an outside cafe right along the beach and trying to soak up all the sun and beauty before our flights that evening.  A young girl, probably about 13 or 14 walked by carrying her baby.  She was begging for money.  As she walked by us, we all kind of looked down at the floor or at each other.  She walked by again and something struck me, as well as the two guys I was with.  For perspective, one of the gentlemen is from Kroatia and lived in shelters thru the Cold War and the other joined the Peace Corps after college and lived in Bolivia for two years.  I was in compassionate hands.  We all dug into our pockets and gave her what we could find.  She was grateful and walked back to the milk crate she had positioned on the sidewalk, shading herself by a parked car.  She walked by again a few times as we sat there and was not too successful in getting people's attention.  The girl was rather quiet and not pushy at all. 

Througout our lunch, various groups of kids came up and did 'shows' as a means to get money from tourists.  Acrobatic skits, etc.  By the end of lunch, we were broke.  Or at least had given away every last Rand we had on us.  But, I kept watching this girl.  Her baby was probably 9 mos old.  It was obvious, despite her young age, she was a mom.  Her only interest was in making sure her baby was cared for.  She discreetly nursed the baby a few times and did her best to stay shaded from the hot sun.  All I could think about was what I was doing with Olivia and Luke when they were her baby's age.  I had blocks on the ground, working on developmental areas.  I knew about the importance of gross and motor skill development.  Clothing, food and shelter were not something I had to think about.  Where did this girl sleep?  How did her baby sleep?  On the ground?  Where did she go to the bathroom?  Does she even have diapers for her baby? These thoughts just wouldn't stay away. 

I kept thinking about what I could do.  The only thing I could think of was food.  She just looked hungry.  Like she had no energy.  Not emaciated.  Just lifeless.  I got up from my chair and went over to her.  I sat down next to her and asked her if I could buy her lunch.  She immediately said yes.  I asked her what she liked.  Her reply, 'anything, my lady'.  She repeated this anytime I asked her a question.  Would she prefer fish, a sandwich, pasta?  Same reply.  So, I went an ordered a cheeseburger and fries for her.  The waiter boxed it up for me and brought it out hot.  I then went back over to her and asked her if I could hold her baby while she ate so she would have both hands free.  The girl had just finished nursing the baby again and he'd fallen asleep, so she declined.  I wanted to be sensitive to making her uncomfortable, so I stayed with her for a few minutes to help her get settled.  She ate every last bit of the what was in the styrofoam box.  I was elated! 

Three weeks later, I cannot stop thinking about this girl.  She made an impact on me.  I didn't get her name.  I wish I could've done more to help her.  Give her a hotel room for a night, buy her clothes, etc.  All the things you don't think of at the time. 

But, more importantly than short term breaks.  How do people in her situation get out?  What has to happen to allow her a chance to succeed? 

I think this could be a very long post, because the subject is so deep.  And, I share it not to get praise for buying a girl lunch.  Really, it was 10 minutes of one day of her life.  Nothing. 

But, it got me thinking about the people living right here in America that could be under similar circumstances.  It got me thinking about the orphanages or women's shelters in parts of the world I travel to and how we can all do more to help.  We just need to be aware. 

And, living our day to day life, we don't have that luxury.  We get up, we go to work, drive to Target, fix dinner for our family and live our life.  We forget there are people out there trying to find shelter from a car and a milk crate because it's a really hot day and you have a baby to protect.  We hear stories on the news, but don't really know where to go to help. 

So, I don't really know what the answer is.  Volunteer more, obviously.  But where?  Do you try to make sweeping change or just worry about making one person's life better?  How do I make it a part of my life on a more regular basis and not just the Christmastime toy drive?  How do I ensure my kids grow up knowing they have a duty to help others too?

More to come as I try to figure this out from where and how I can help make improvement in someone's life and share back from the life I'm fortunate enough to live.   

Pure Cuteness

Yes, I owe more on the S. Africa trip.   Fell off after Day 1.  Not so good.  Just a really crazy, busy week. 

The pictures are almost uploaded and will post soon. 

In the meantime, a quick Olivia update.  A 'treat' for her is to come spend the day with me at work.  So, this President's Day, she joined me at work.  The 'treat' is not always reciprical as she can be a bit distracting.  A joyful distraction, but it's not always my most productive day.  At one point, I had to run a meeting with my team in our conference room and I had to spend a lot of time explaining to Olivia that she was not to come in unless it was a true emergency.  She was set up in my office with things to do and it was only a 30 min meeting.  Olivia was set and I was off down the hall.  About 20 min into the meeting, I had to come get something from my office. This is what greeted me as I walked in.

And, a little girl crossing her legs dancing around my office.  I was so surprised by her ability to actually write this all down, I myself was jumping up and down with excitement.  Olivia quickly reminded me that she really needed to go!!  So, off we went.  I later asked her about the notes and she said she was going to quietly walk into the meeting and hand them to me.  Made me smile so big!  This is one going into the baby book for sure!!  I'm quite certain she won't thank me later.  :)

The First and the Third

Referencing ‘Worlds’ above. So far, in my short trip and brief knowledge of Johannesburg , the start contrast is mind blowing. This is very much a society that has the 1st and 3rd Worlds existing side by side, interconnecting, yet staying very far removed and isolated from one another. South Africa, post-apartheid, is called the ‘Rainbow nation’. I now understand that so much of what you read is shades of the truth.



I’m trying to compartmentalize my thoughts to not belabor my thoughts and observations. But, I have to admit it is difficult.


The Apartheid Museum:


You could honestly spend about 6 hours in the museum. We only had about 3 hours, so touched on what we could and fortunately had a tour guide to help fill in the blanks. It also helped that our tour guide was a 45ish yr old Black man. In S. Africa, it’s ok to capitalize the races. You’re also allowed to say Colored. It is a legal race in this country. And, its far different from the context we know. Here, it means you are of a mixed race. Or Dutch. Or something else. Anything but Black, White and Indian. Those are the 4 races.


Our tour guide – his name was Les. A very kind and gentle man, married with a 12 yr old son. He has been on a plane ride once in his life and it lasted 45 min to a nearby town. He wishes it lasted 12 hours. He hears people complain about long-haul flights and would give anything to be in their place. He’s taking his son to the coast over Easter weekend. He can’t really afford it, but feels his son is at the age where he should see the ocean at least once. The only way they are going is because he got a certificate for a tour of a time share in exchange for 2 nights. Pretty funny if you think about the disconnected marketing plan there. I wish I could be there to see the smile on his face, when he sees the smile on his son’s face. I wish I could’ve given him a ticket to anywhere he wanted to explore. If I were Oprah, I would treat him to the most amazing vacation of a lifetime!


Les’ birth name is a tribal name. I can’t remember what and couldn’t spell it even if I remembered. But, during the apartheid every human being had to carry a passbook. This passbook had to be carried with you 24/7. Police could stop you at any time, for any reason and ask to see it. The passbook declared your race, as if it wasn’t obvious. You could be arrested and sent straight to prison if you did not have your passbook on you. Les’ mom went to the passbook office to obtain them for her family. The clerk declared that she must have proper Christian names for her family and Les’ given name was changed to Andrew. It is quite apparent when hearing Les tell this story, that by this alone, he feels robbed of his dignity and his heritage. He can’t even pronounce Andrew. He speaks 7 languages. 6 of them are tribal languages. Fortunately, he now goes by Les, which is some abbreviated name of his tribal/given language. Although is birth certificate still remains Andrew.


The apartheid was legal, government sanctioned segregation and slave labor. The crazy people in office ‘believed’ that by separating the races, they would be more able to grow and flourish among their own. Only, White’s were given privileges that no others received. S. Africa is 80% Black. Under apartheid, Blacks could not own land. They were forcefully removed from their homes/townships because they were getting too close to the other races. So, in the middle of the night, they were forced out of their homes and send to townships elsewhere in the country. The stipulation; the new location must be close to train tracks because that was how they would travel hours each day to get to work. And back. In crowded conditions not suitable for humans. They did not receive medical care or electricity. They were not given furniture for their schools and they were given Black teachers that were uneducated themselves. In immensely crowded conditions. Les, felt privileged because his family was able to afford a chalk tablet in which he could practice his studies. The other kids had to find scraps of paper or trash to write on. Les has a bad back today because he had to kneel on the floor for his schooling and write on the ground.


80% of 45MM people. South Africans. And this ‘ended’ in 1994. I was a senior in college. What were you doing?


The museum donated a large portion, as you can imagine, to Nelson Mandela. He is the closest thing to God for these people. He was not perfect, but his leadership skills are more than admirable. Unimaginable is probably more like it.


Soweto:


It was the largest single township during the apartheid and housed 4MM Blacks in one very small area. Imagine, putting all the people of Miami or DFW into an area that’s about 5 square miles. And, I think I’m being generous on the area size. Today, over 1.5MM people still live there. Most still don’t have electricity. Their bathrooms are outside and they don’t have running water. And, these are the nice places with brick houses and front doors. Mandela was born here. Tutu (anther noble peace winner) still lives here on a part time basis.


Not too far away are the ‘shanty’ villages which are similar to the Sari Sari’s of India (think Slum Dog Millionaire). Remember, the people were ‘flourishing’ in these conditions.


Pictures of all this will be coming when I get back home.


So, I did not describe any of this in a condensed manner. And, I have not touched on the ‘1st ‘ world part. It’s a bit equally fascinating. I’ll try and give a brief update on that tonight.


I’m on my way to Cape Town as I type and I’m pretty sure the differences between what I’ve already seen will just get bigger.

The 'Shanty' part of Soweto

Some 'homebrew' beer we tried in a local Shabeen

Cheers from Joburg!!

Well, I made it!!  A long, long journey to get here.  And, other than almost getting stuck in London due to weather and a fairly bumpy flight over much of Africa....it was uneventful.  A rather smooth 2-days of traveling. 

I arrived yesterday about 7am here.  Got to the hotel, checked in and took a little nap.  It was so nice to be back in a bed!! 

From there, a colleague and I had a 1/2 day tour planned.  I will write more tonight, but all is well here.  I'm very glad that our trip started in Johannesburg.  I think this is a much more realistic picture of Africa and probably a good part of S. Africa.  From what we've heard, Cape Town is very Mediterranean and much like a European town.  S. Africa is comprised of 45MM people and 80% are black.  I don't think Cape Town shares that ratio. 

Yesterday was a bit heart-wrenching.  To just get a glimpse of the apartheid and what happened to the people here is unbelievable.  And, to think that it ended in 1994 is something tough to get your arms around. 

Here's a glimpse at what we toured. 



And, Soweto - from Wikipedia:

As Soweto was counted as part of Johannesburg in South Africa's 2008 census, Soweto's population is 1,3 million [13] recent demographic statistics are not readily It has been estimated that 40% of Johannesburg's residents live in Soweto. However, the 2008 Census put its population at 1,3 million [14] (2010) or about one-third of the city's total population.

Soweto's population is predominantly black. All eleven of the country's official languages are spoken, and the main linguistic groups (in descending order of size) are Zulu, Sotho, Tswana, Venda, and Tsonga.




More tonight!!

Not a necessity for an update...

But, I was kindly reminded yesterday from a dear friend that I sounded a bit extreme on my last post.  Yes, I will make it back just fine.  My parents even said they didn't realize how nervous I was about the trip.  I think I posted at the wrong time yesterday (or the day before?) as I was winding down in the office to get everything together. 

Then, Luke got sick and I was up every hour with him.  So, a knock back to reality.  Then, Olivia broke out head to toe with the hives about 8 hours before I left.  Two sick kids, two trips to the pediatrician's office and I'm definitely back to reality.

All is good.  I'm in London right now.  Last night's flight was nice and uneventful.  A little bumpy over the Atlantic, but surprisingly didn't bother me.  Right before take off the pilot came on and was talking about the weather in the UK.  Apparently he was in Lithuania the day before and it was -20c.  I figured if he made it from there to Miami just fine, we were in good hands. 

Now, wrapping up the last few hours of the long layover here.  The weather is getting worse here between today and tomorrow, so I'm just keeping my fingers crossed there are no delays. 

Shortly after arrival tomorrow, a co-worker and I are taking a 1/2 day tour of Soweto and the Apartheid (discovered it's correctly pronounced 'apart-hate' not 'apart-height') Museum.  Soweto, during the Apartheid, was one of the largest inhabitants of Blacks (in S. Africa, there are 4 races, Blacks, Coloreds (mixed race), Whites and Indian).  It's a relatively small village and at one point, it housed 4 million Blacks.  Should be a very eye-opening and fascinating tour.  Will hopefully update tomorrow night. 

Aaaaack!!!

That is what's going on in my stomach right now.  The BIG trip is right around the corner....literally.  As I told Kyle the other night.  I know I'm excited.  Don't have to worry about that one.  Thank goodness.  Because, I'm worrying about everything else too much!  The 22 hours of flying. The 8 days gone, 3 nights on a place, 2 cities in S. Africa.  Etc, etc, etc.  It will be amazing.  I just want to get there.  Which is SO far away (literally and figuratively) I can't get my arms around it. 

And, the planning involved in being gone that long.  Yes, Kyle is by far one of the most capable and competent people out there for managing the house/kids in my absence.  In many cases, more organized and pulled together than me.  But, I'm still a Mom and I still worry that Olivia will miss a gymnastics class, show up at the bday party without a gift, not turn in her girls scout cookie money on time, or they won't have meals planned for the week.  Or, God forbid, they forget their mom.  So, I have goodie bags with notes for each morning, I have video's taped of me telling them good night (7 hour time difference.  I will most likely miss all of them) and the 36 hours I'll go without speaking to Olivia at the end of the trip because of my flight times, her being in school and the time difference. 

Just give me a valium and a glass of wine now.  I'll need a good 22 hour nap by the time I board my plane. 

Onto the rest of our life.  As, fortunately, it does not all revolve around this trip. 

We had a VERY big milestone this Christmas.  I told myself everyday I was going to write about it, but as you can see, blogging more regularly did not quite make my New Year's resolution list. 

Kyle celebrated his 10th Anniversary of being 'Cancer Free'!!!  Like most big milestones out there, he got a watch.  :)  It's amazing that it's been 10 years.  Time flies.  I wish all of our family and friends would've been around for a big fiesta.  So many crazy memories to rehash.  Despite the severity of it all, I think in some weird way, it's good memories for us both. 

As for the kiddos, they are doing well.  Growing like crazy and I wish time could stand still.  Luke is funnier than ever.  A complete ham.  He makes me laugh on a daily basis.  I need to video his 'looks'.  He uses his eyes to tell stories like I've never seen before.  And, he knows he's funny too!  Little rascal.  Olivia is becoming a kid more and more each day.  I can see the teenage years right around the corner and I'm scared to death.  Trying to protect her while I still can.  As I learned in a recent parenting class at church....I'm the 'authoritative' person for another year....then on to the 'arbiter'.  But, my travel girl.  She's ready to go anywhere with me and I'm dying to take her anywhere we can go. 

I will do my very best to update this during the trip.  I would love to take pics, but don't think the ones on my blackberry will do it justice.  I'll post what I can, but know that many more will be posted upon my return. 

Hugs and Kisses to everyone! 

And, the Journey Begins...

Today marks a milestone for me.  Back in 1995, I graduated from UT with a BBA and a minor in International Business.  Up until now, I have been dipping my toes in the water of this career.  Today, I jumped off into the deep end. 

This is where I will be going in about six weeks. 

 Quite a colorful flag, huh? 

How about this as a clue? 

Getting warmer? 

Here is is.....

I'm going to South Africa.  Excited, yes.  Nervous, yes.  Excited, yes.  Hesitant, yes.  Excited, yes.  Disbelief, yes.  Can you tell how my brain is working at this point? 

I will be on a plane for 20 hours.  It will take me 2 days in total to get there.  I have to go through London.  20,000 miles round trip.  Not including the 2 inter-country flights we're taking as we'll be arriving in Johannesburg, then going to Durban and finally ending up in Cape Town.  My family will be 10,000 miles away.  There are 11 'official' languages in this country.  11, people.  And, English is not necessarily up high on the list. 

Did I mention that I feel like I've jumped off a cliff?  I know that this is an amazing opportunity and when it's all said and done, I will look back on it with amazement.  Until then....I'm just thinking I may need lots of drugs to get me there. 

All this other 'international' travel I've done up until this point......child's play!  :) 

Mom & Dad - I guess you're investment is finally being used to the full extent. 

The Mud Day

Today was one of those days where you let kids be kids.....It's warm (82f), sunny, the Christmas shopping is done and we're way-past-ready for Fall to be here. 

Here's what it looked like:

I also realized that my posts weren't getting emailed out.  Looks like there was a change in the settings.  So, if you haven't received any lately, there have been a few posted. 

What I am Thankful For...

Missed the actual 'Thanksgiving Week' boat, but I'm ok with that. 

This was taken a few months ago....Olivia and Luke still continue their 'bonding' as newly discovered sister and brother.  Very cool. 

The Year Thanksgiving Was In Spanish.....

We are embarking on new ground.  And, some old.  In traditional format....the Lane's are entertaining.  In new tradition, we are hosting Thanksgiving for a few families not from the US, but Peru, Colombia and Guatemala.  I am so excited.  I have spent the last few years learning about new cultures, food, travels, languages, etc.  I am the only 'gringo' in my office.  Everyone else is from somewhere else. 

In conversation here, it was discovered that Thanksgiving is kind of like President's day to some.  It's a holiday, yes.  We get the day off, yes.  But, it doesn't have as much weight in terms of 'holiday status' as others.  Now, I get to return the tradition sharing and teaching others about Thanksgiving.  So, a few families from my office are coming over.  I forewarned them that it would be as traditional as it comes.....turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, pumpkin pie, etc.  The exciting part - they are so thrilled!!  Now, I'm nervous that I have to perform on my entertaining skills!!  And, my cooking skills. 

I spent a few hours yesterday planning out the menu, doing some shopping and making some arts & crafts for the tables with Olivia.  Kyle's laughing at how much time I'm spending on this, but I feel like the pressure is really on!  :) 

In addition to this...it's the secondary traditions of Thanksgiving that will be new as well.  Football.  There are some big games on that day.....Dolphins vs Cowboys and Texas vs A&M.  Is it rude for us to sit around and watch all day when they are into a completely different kind of 'futbol'?  I'm the freaky girl in Miami that actually likes sports.  Not many girls here are into them at all! 

And...the funniest part is that all the people coming speak Spanish as their native language.  And, naturally the one they are most comfortable with.  So, unless they are talking directly to me, Kyle or Olivia, we probably won't understand a single conversation taking place!  I should video tape this one. 

This is exactly why we love where we live.  The culture.  Fingers crossed our turkey turns out well.  But, aside from that, this will definitely be a Thanksgiving to remember and I cannot wait!  Sunshine, good friends, and a little Spanish are what it's all about! 

Happy Thanksgiving to all our friends and family!  We will be with you in spirit! 

XOXO - The Lane's

Olivia Turns 6...

I'm sure I will say this many, many times over the course of the 20 years ahead of me.  But, I feel like this was a big year for us and even more so Olivia.  Somehow this year, she morphed into a bonafide K.I.D.  She has no toddler left in her....unless of course I look at her from a certain angle at bed time and see those big, fat cheeks smiling out at me.  That's about the last of it.  This little kid used to be chubby, squeezable and wore the clothes I picked out for her. 

Now, she's 44lbs of solid muscle.  I mean solid.  It looks like she invented a P90x-kids version.  I am envious of her six pack.  Her glutes, her triceps.  It's crazy.  You would think we had her on some sort of no carb, protein-heavy diet.  But, nope.  She's just genetically made up this way.  From whom, I don't know! 

Now, she has a true mind of her own when it comes to fashion.  It's cute.  And....yet frustrating when you're trying to make her look 'pulled together'.  Doesn't always happen.  But, she's got a very creative mind and if this is the worst of it for now, I'm doing pretty good. 

Here are some good milestones achieved this past year with 'little O'....(I can try and hold on, right?):

- She learned to ride a bike.  And, I mean ride.  I was not very confident at first as she did not seem eager to learn.  Didn't have much of a desire at all.  Friend-rivalry didn't even give her the push.  But, one day, I branched out from our neighborhood and took the bike to the park to try a different approach.  Bad move.  That's the day it clicked.  And guess who had to run...SPRINT, to keep  up with her.  From then on, there was no stopping her.  Just the other day, she went on a 5 mile ride with me.  I have to admit, I love having a riding buddy.  She certainly shares the road in a very happy manner! 

- Olivia learned to read.  My mom is a great influence here.  She showed me the ropes on kindergarten prep.  Olivia has the 'reader finger' or whatever it's called....keeps her place on each word she's reading.  She loves it.  She spells everything now.  Instead of 'Mom, can I have a glass of O.J.'...it's now..'Mom, can I have a glass of OJ, Y-E-S or N-O?'  Kyle and I are on the cusp of not being able to have 'code-talk' anymore by spelling out our conversation.  To try and keep up, we just spell really fast now.  Fingers crossed that she doesn't understand yet. 

- She learned math.  Not just counting, but addition and subtraction.  This excites me!  So far, I think math is her passion.  I find her counting everything!  (She's going to love me sharing this) But, I'll find her distracted on the potty because she's counting everything around her....how many tiles are on the floor, how many slats are on the blinds, how many toys are in the tub, etc. Anywhere we go, she's counting.  I came home the other day from work and she'd completed 4 pages by herself in a math book.  And they were all correct.  They haven't even started this subject in kindergarten. 

- She had her first official sleepover.  Olivia and her cousins and friends that come to visit have been having slumber parties for awhile.  But, this was the kind where she packed her back and went to the neighbors.  With no 10pm phone call to come pick her up.  I was very sad at this one.  She's not supposed to be this independent yet.  I think I was 10 and still calling my parents to come pick me up.  :) 

- This past year was also the year of 'not listening very well'.  Our biggest challenge.  Frustration.  I think the 'don't make me repeat myself' phrase has officially been passed down.  I'm officially a parent.  UGH.  Please, child.....just make it easier on everyone and listen.  Concentrate.  Selective listening, for sure. 

- She's become a killer on the soccer field.  Olivia is still a fairly reserved and shy child.  How, we can't figure out.  (Have you met Kyle and me?)  But, she is.  Except on the soccer field.  She's fast.  She loves scoring goals.  This is where the inner crazy girl comes out.  The minute she gets on the sidelines, she's back to being reserved.  But, when she's on the field, she's a maniac.  I love it.  Can I find a permanent soccer field? 

This is our child....sweet, sweet Olivia.  I had the great opportunity to take her to NY this summer by myself and we had a blast!  She is my buddy.  I don't want time to move forward, because I am not at all prepared for losing her in the 'tween/teen' years that seem to start these days at age 7.  Stay small, little O.  Stay small.  Yet, I can't wait to watch her grow. 

Love you Pooh. 

the Mouse and the Minnie.

We are on our way to Disney!!!  Olivia has been dying to go lately.  The allure of being only hours away and people going on a whim in Miami got the best of her. 

She's been asking since the beginning of the summer.  So, we gave her a choice....trip to Disney for her bday or a bday party in Miami.  Guess what she chose??  Yep - the mouse. 

And, lucky enough for us, Erika's oldest daughter has been also asking...dying!....to go to Disney.  And, Kate, Olivia and Elise all have birthdays within two weeks of each other. 

Olivia has known for awhile that we were going.  Erika decided to surprise her kids on the day of the trip!  She just told them hours ago as a matter of fact.  The beauty of technology is that I'm writing this as we're driving to Disney.  Erika's at the airport with the family waiting to board their plane.  We will soon, very soon have 3 crazy kids anxious to get through the night so they can get to Disney in the morning!!!  I can't wait to see them. 

And Luke. 

Poor thing has no idea what's about to happen to him.  He's about to be in stimulation overload.  Late nights, no naps and lots and lots of people.  Wish us luck! 

Happy Birthday my little pooh!! 

- next blog....her year in recap! 

My Platform....

Yes....same story ( I say I'm going to blog and I don't), different day.  I fully understand that.  Life is hectic.  For all of us.  There is a reason why Facebook and Twitter are successful.  People can update their lives daily in one picture or 140 letters or less.  Funny.  But, a blog...slightly more commitment that doesn't always make the priority list.  Unfortunately. 

This week I was already looking forward to blog about the 'what's new with Olivia' list as she turns 6 on Saturday. I like stepping back and thinking about what the last year has meant to me. 

But, for now, I blog because of something else important.  I met a woman at a women's leadership conf in Boston last year.  She made a big impact on me and I even brought her out to our total international team meeting this past August.  I had the pleasure of having dinner with her alone the night before our meeting and she is an amazing woman.  She also writes a blog and had this as one of the subjects recently.  Click on it.  I know it's a pain and many of you may be reading this on an email.  Take the time.  I promise.  Especially if you have daughters. 

As a businesswoman in the world today, this is important to me.  As a mother of a daughter, it is frightening.  I will do everything in my power to raise a strong, confident and compassionate woman.  Yet, I'm afraid I will have to work 10x harder than I need to (make that a million) because of what the media does to our kids.  It starts so young too.  Does the 'Disney channel' really think we shouldn't monitor what they are producing these days?

Watch this trailer.  I'll be watching the movie when it comes out. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2UZZV3xU6Q&playnext=1&list=PL69880C25C2F02A24

A Little About Luke.....

Last year I started something I'd like to continue as an annual tradition.  Right around Olivia's Bday, I wrote about what the last year meant in terms of her changes/development/new learnings.  Since I'm not the best at keeping up with baby books, I'll look to this someday as my refernce!  :)  Have you heard - Technology is changing the way we do things?!

So, for Luke, he had a pretty eventful year.  His first one, right?  Pretty basic you might think.  He learned to sit up, roll over, crawl, walk....all the normal things babies do. 

Since I have early dementia these days, I'll at least document that he learned to walk the Sat before his first bday.  And, lucky for iPhones, we got just about his very first steps on video! 

Here are a few other things that make 'Luke Douglas' who he is today:

- He has a lot of teeth coming in.  6 right now as a matter of fact.  Ouch.  Hence the reason he has an index finger in his mouth at all times.  But, he has his two bottom teeth in and they are quite messed up!  There is a gap in between that could probably fit 2 or 3 add'l teeth.  Poor guy.  Right now it looks kind of cute, but someday...maybe not.  I pray his real ones close the gap someday!
- Luke learned to play peek-a-boo at an early age.  His favorite prop was usually menu's at a restaurant.  But, blankets and clothes work well.  Anything really.  He has a thing for putting clothes on top of his head. 
- His favorite pastime is dumping out his crib after any sleeping occasion.  All 6 pacy's that are usually there.  His baby pillow pet and his blanket.  In violent fashion.  We can usually hear the pacy's flinging across the room after he's awake.  And, he's not mad about it.  Just likes to throw things.
- Speaking of....he has a great relationship with our dog, Eddie.  So, Luke finds it necessary to look out for Eddie and provide food for him.  If Eddie is in the vacinity of Luke while he's eating, he's throwing down his food for Eddie to catch.  Eddie now goes outside when Luke eats. 
- Luke LOVES his bath.  He has never once cried going in and actually walks/crawls to the bathroom as fast as humanly possible when he hears the water go on.  And, he'll stay in as long as you'll let him. 
- Luke still sleeps in his sleep sack.  He looks a bit ridiculous now that he's one, but since they make them big enough for one yr olds, I put him in it.  It's is 'calming' thing.  He knows the minute he gets in it, it's bedtime.  And, he sleeps really, really well, so I'm not going to even attempt to mess with our routine!! 
- Luke won't move if you lay him on his back on the ground.  Anywhere else (bed, couch, etc) he'll roll right over and sit up.  But the floor, he just lays perfectly still.  We think it's because of his changing table.  We use it every time to change his diaper, get him dressed, etc.  So, he lays there perfectly still for us.  I would expect him to wiggle and try to get out of that situation.  Nope.  Not this little one.  It's really kind of weird that he won't move if on his back on the ground.  Now, it's a fun little game for us bystanders.  It's quite funny.  You can leave him there, go into the kitchen, get a drink and he's still there on the family room floor.  I guess we could teach him to roll over, but that would take all the fun out of it. 
- My favorite thing...he's a very cuddly guy.  If I ask him to give me hugs, he lays his head down on my chest.  He'll give me kisses and loves to snuggle.  This melts me. 
- He also loves his sister.  If I were to be accurate on this account of the last year, I would probably say that at times is is a love/hate relationship.  Only because Olivia wants to treat him like an American Girl doll.  He doesn't always go for that.  But, when the moon strikes just right and the stars are aligned....he actually lets her play a bit with him.  And, he even lets her put bows and headbands in his hair.  :)

Happy Birthday my little man....

I never knew my heart could be this full of love.....Happy 1st Birthday-  Luke Douglas!! 

the Month of Milestones.....

Big week for us at the Lane house.  I only have a few minutes to write a quick post.  But, in a nutshell, here's what we've 'experienced' in the last 6 days....in order:

- We started preparing for our first hurricane (which thankfully is hitting elsewhere)
- Luke started walking.  Most of you have seen the video.  If you haven't, you are mostly missing out on hearing Kyle and I scream like the over-excited parents we were on Sat. 
- Olivia started her 1st day of Kindergarten
- Olivia learned to ride her bike, with confidence....(important to note)
- Luke turns 1 tomorrow!!

I think I'm in denial about Luke turning one.  It has been such a great year.  And, I know he's my last, so I'm all nostalgic about him turning a year and wish there was someway I could slow down time.  Like all parents.  Same with Olivia.  She's turning into such a girl.  Not sure if I'm ready for this or not. 

Anyways....I'll write more on this a bit later.  Off to escape the commute before the hurricane-that-is-not-hitting-us-hits-us.  :) 

Profiling

I spent last week at an offsite (here in Miami).  In one of the breakout sessions, we did a profile assessment to learn different communication styles, behavioral styles, etc.  I love this stuff.  It fascinates me to know that we are made up of this DNA 'stuff'...some of which can change, some of which is just how God made us.  And, that there are people smart enough to figure out what questions to ask to allow us to see all this on paper. 

Here are the quick buckets of where you could get placed:

D - Dominance; likes to get results, make changes and have impact.  They are direct, compelling, believe in their abilities and will take risks. 

I - Influence/Interpersonal; like to get results through people.  They are extroverted, like changing situations, and will accommodate other's wishes.  They would rather flee than fight and 'have a way with words.'

S - Steadiness/Stability - indirect and introverted, prefer a stable environment, following through on projects and accommodating others.  Make good team players, listen and have patience.

C - Conscientiousness/Cautious - indirect and lean toward order, precision, rules and policies.  Take great pride in their work, respond with facts rather than feelings.  Prefer logic and accuracy.  Ask 'why' a lot. 

Any guesses on where I netted out??......................

It was fun to go around the room and try to take guesses of people's personalities before knowing where we all fell on the test. 

Me = High 'C', closely followed by a pretty high 'D'.  I had a little bit of 'I' and almost zero 'S' in me.  I guess 'steady' would not be a word to describe me.  I guess listening and patience are two areas I could develop.  :) 

Based on where you ranked for each letter above, you added them up and on a chart, it uses just one word to describe your profile....'Creative' was my one word.  I can live with that.  I actually really like it.  It was better than 'perfectionist'.  My finance guy got that one.  If you're the finance guy, I think that's probably the one you'd want over creative.  Maybe the Enron finance guys were 'creative' and not 'perfectionists'.  Maybe they were just in the wrong role.  Hmm??  (kidding!)

Funny enough...one of the traits of high 'C's' is the use of sarcasm.  I think I have that one nailed. 

Value to an organization with this pattern - initiates or designs changes. 

Watchouts for my 'personality'...many, I'm sure is what you're thinking.  But, 'bluntness' is one of them.  Remind me to tell you about me the bathroom story when Kyle and I were house hunting.  It was not my greatest moment.  But, I sure could've used this feedback then.  (No, it's not a gross story....I just really stuck my foot in my mouth with someone else in the bathroom). 

Our instructor used an elevator analogy to best describe all the profiles.
D - would get on the elevator and push the button, without care if anyone else needed to get on.
I - would get on, hold the open button and wait until everyone was on board.
S - I can't remember....see, those listening skills need to be sharpened. 
C - this person would get on and then guess weights of everyone and add them up to make sure they weren't over the weight limit. 

This describes me to perfection!  I count everything.  All the time.  I think it's the one OCD habit I have. 

What do you think you would be on this test???  Have you taken it? 

Looking Through the Files..

And I found this....just makes my heart melt.  I truly cannot believe that Olivia has grown up so incredibly fast in just two short years.  Lord, help me through the next 15 (and then some) because the last year has made my hair turn grey and we're not even in kindergarten yet!! 

Is it possible to stop time?  I loved this age.  So sweet.