Jacquelinations: Tips on Love, Life and Work

Time Flies When You Have a Baby!

2009-05-13T12:52:00.004-04:00

Lennox is five weeks today and I still can't believe it! It was amazing to spend Mother's Day with him this past Sunday and it finally hit home that I am a mommy! Ernesto and I used to joke that there would come a day that we wouldn't be able to just freely move around our home as we pleased and I didn't quite believe him, but that day has come! At times, it feels a bit restricting and the most simplest tasks, like taking a shower, become the most sacred moments of the day--however, when I stare into Lennox's cute little face, it's all worth it. I am really blessed to have 12 weeks off from work for maternity leave, too. I honestly feel like I'm just now getting into a groove caring for Lennox and moving to-and-fro with him. I really don't think 6 weeks off is enough, especially not for a first-time mother! There is soooo much to learn and no matter what your mother or your friends tell you, you simply learn by doing. I had planned to take Lennox to a "Mommy and Me Yoga" class this morning to observe it before signing up--however,there was a snag--when I looked out the window, I saw that my husband had taken the car with the car seat--Argh (insert tears, here!)!! Needless to say, I could have really benefited from yoga, if even just as an observer today. Luckily, when I called my husband at work, he was able to bring home the car so that we wouldn't be stranded indoors all day. We'll try again next week to view the class and who knows, we might just attend! One solution to today's snafu is that my sister and I will go to Babys R Us to buy another carseat base so both of our cars will be car seat ready!!

The Best Laid Plans of Mice of Men Often Go Awry

2009-05-07T23:02:00.004-04:00

Today has been a busy, eventful day with Lennox. For starters, we've had a serious rain streak in the DC area that I've been itching to take him for a walk in his baby bjorn. However, it's been nice just to take him out for a ride in the car and fresh air. Everything revolves around his breastfeeding schedule at this point. For example, this morning, we dropped my husband off at work, and luckily, I fed Lennox a good hour before we needed to leave--which holds him down for two to three hours. Then, I loaded Lennox into the car, along with multiple bags, and we went to my mother's house--keep in mind, it's only a five minute drive from our condo! I also had a dr's appointment scheduled for the afternoon (I've realized that with a baby, early morning appointments are a joke!), and felt like I'd have enough time to take a nap--boy, was I wrong! Lennox had his first blowout and was covered from his shoulders down in poo! I was so glad to be with my mother and sister when this happened!! We quickly took him upstairs to bathe and I couldn't have been more pleased that I packed so many supplies! Lucky for me, Lennox actually enjoys taking a bath, especially when I splash the water around. I think this simulates sounds he heard when he was in my womb. Before I knew it, we were all headed to the doctor for my post-partum check-up. The car always puts Lennox to sleep, so I thought he just might remain asleep throughout my appointment. Boy was I wrong again! He woke up before I was seen hungry as ever, so I took him in a backroom to breastfeed! Although I have started pumping once every other day, so i can be relieved from round-the-clock feedings, I decided, what the heck, I'm at my OBGYN's office, I can just feed him myself here--no need for a bottle! My doctor was soooo excited to see Lennox and of course, he has grown so much since delivery day! Additionally, I'm ten pounds away from my pre-pregnancy weight, and even though I haven't had a chance to exercise (one shouldn't do this before 6 weeks after delivery) the amount of supplies and baby carriers one must lug around is its own workout! I managed to cook a quick dinner for everyone and squeeze in a nap and write a blog posting, so, although the day seemed all over the place, it was an accomplishment!

Introducing Lennox Yonah Lara

2009-04-19T20:10:00.005-04:00

It's been so long since I've last posted, but I have the perfect topic to post about--my new son, Lennox Yonah Lara! He's soooo awesome and he was born on Wednesday, April 8th at 9:13am. He weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and was 20 inches long. After one week of life, he grew two inches and gained six ounces! I was very proud of this because I had difficulty breastfeeding at first, but when he went through this growth spurt, I had gotten the hang of breastfeeding and had been doing that exclusively! The first time I tried to write this post, I had to cut it short because Lennox was hungry. Now, on the eve of his third week of life, I am determined to finish this post! Please look forward to me including pictures and posting about my journey through motherhood!

Lotion for All !!

2008-04-06T10:46:00.005-04:00

I saw an interesting sight on the metro this week that brought up some childhood memories. There was a young man in his early 30s who got onto the metro dressed in a suit and carrying a backpack. As soon as he sat down, he quickly pulled out something that looked like lip balm. It wasn't for his lips, though. It was a special balm for extremely dry skin, and he began working the balm between each finger with extreme care and attention. My eyes were fixated on him and as I glanced around, other folks were watching this young man moisturize his hands, too. I immediately noticed his wedding ring and quickly assumed that his wife had given him this lovely product. My husband has caught flack from his friends for some of the products he uses thanks to me! Now, this does not have to be the case with this young man, perhaps he has a strong dislike for ashy hands?

Which brings me to my childhood memory... When I was about 6, I would play tennis with my dad at the courts down the street. I remember seeing my dad's ashy, gray legs and telling him to put on some lotion. He simply told me, "Men don't wear lotion." I remember wondering to myself, could this be true? It became a family joke that we would all desperately urge my father to put lotion on to no avail! One summer, my grandfather came over from Uganda to visit for a month, and my dad saw him using lotion. My grandfather was the coolest and most respected dude EVER, and this is what it took for my father to start using lotion on his legs. As silly and ignorant as his statement might seem to some, I'm sure there are many men who think like this. Nonetheless, it was a beautiful day when my dad started using lotion. It's really a good look for him--and for ALL! In fact, I don't leave home without lotion.

Do you have a funny story about men and lotion? Or, if you are a man reading this post, let me hear your thoughts about lotion. Join the debate.

There's Still Hope!!

2008-03-26T22:12:00.003-04:00

How many of you have had conversations with your friends hypothesizing how crazy things will be when our children are growing up? Well, after hanging out with my girlfriend's 12-year-old son, I'm convinced that there's still hope! It had been a while since I saw J., but we had time to catch up as we waited for his mother who had been held up in a meeting.

If you are like me, you have completely forgotten what ages correspond with what grades--for inquiring minds, 12-years-old = 8th grade.

So, the first thing J. told me was that he had just won the school Geography Bee and last week he won the History Project Competition. On April 4th, he'll compete to be 1 of 33 DC youth vying for a spot in the National Geography Bee!! Honestly, J. totally blew me away. He is fascinated by every subject and loves learning new things.

I was trying to help him memorize countries and capitals and told him that it would be easy to remember that the capital of Uganda is Kampala b/c that's where I'm from!! His mother informed me today that he told her he will always remember the capital of Uganda b/c he has a friend (me) from there. :-)

J. was quizzing me on things like who was the 43rd President of the U.S and how many knots are in a league? Ummmmm.... yeah. In a way, I felt like I was working on a Mensa quiz, but was also digging the challenge. We played a math game and hangman -- it has been I while since I've played hangman, so I needed a quick refresher. The word that J. selected was, 'antidisestablishmentarism.' If you can imagine, I had a bit of difficulty guessing this word.

The bottom line is that J. is an extremely well-rounded, independent, intelligent, loving kid that is not too cool to say, "I love you mom" in public. When I was in 8th grade, my priorities were a bit different, so it's nice to see that with every generation of youth, there are always those special kids that go against the grain.

The world better watch out for J., that's all I'm saying.

Challenge for Love, Life and Work Readers: What does antidisestablishmentarism mean?

This Crazy, Beautiful Life

2008-03-22T09:15:00.008-04:00

This week has been unusually tough for me because I found out sad health news about a dear, family friend. It really puts life into perspective, especially the reality that my parents' generation is beginning to experience deteriorating health and even death.

When I received the phone call from my mom on Tuesday afternoon about Uncle K., I just went numb. I was sitting in my office with my intern and all I could do was continue our conversation where we left off. I was in complete disbelief --how could this happen??
Why must he be 1 of only 2% of the entire population who has this type of cancer?
Why has it already metastasized, and the fact that it is a cancer of the blood, chemotherapy won't help anyways?

Sometimes, there are things in this world that we will never understand.

But, as I talked with my mom after work, I realized that there was beauty in this sad story, too. Uncle K. has been a part of my family's life as long as I can remember. For the past 20 years, my family has spent holidays with his family--alternating Thanksgiving at our house and Christmas at their house and so on. Of course, once all the children left the home, holidays became a bit more sporadic, but the parents always continued to get together on weekends.

And, most recently, my husband and I asked Uncle K. to play a major role in our wedding. When we got engaged, I wanted my husband to see my hometown again. Well, immediately when Uncle K. and Auntie B. heard that we were coming to town, they decided to throw an impromptu engagement party for us. They came over dressed to the nines in traditional Ugandan attire and gave us blessings for our lovely news! So, when the time came for us to begin planning the Ugandan introduction ceremony, which occurs 6 months prior to the wedding, we knew that we'd ask Uncle K. to serve as my husband's family's spokesperson.

So, the next few months, my husband had phone conference calls with Ugandan and Rwandan elders, learning the ins and outs of our upcoming ceremony. He also had the opportunity to get to know Uncle K. better. So, when the 'Kwanjula" rolled around, Memorial Day weekend 2007, it was the most beautiful event ever!! Everyone was dressed in traditional attire and with the traditional food, music, customs and people --we might as well have been in Kampala, Uganda! Looking back, it is such a blessing that Uncle K. played such a prominent role in my wedding. And, of course, Uncle K. and Auntie B. and some of their children were in attendance at our wedding this past October.

My family has never been big on family videos, and the few events they have recorded have become "Lost Tapes." However, our Kwanjula and wedding are both recorded, so it will be so nice to share this footage with Uncle K.'s family and many others.

I refuse to talk about Uncle K. like he's gone, because he's not. He just has a heck of a challenge ahead of him, and has been blessed to be surrounded by so many people who love him. I love you Uncle K. Be strong!!

Kids on Leashes?

2008-02-22T17:03:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, as I was walking to my car after work, I couldn't help but notice this three-year old girl who was being escorted by her parents on a leash. Now, let me explain, the leash was masked as a 'monkey backpack' with the long, monkey tail functioning as the "leash." In a way, that almost made it more disturbing b/c the little girl almost looked like she was in a monkey Halloween costume! I mean, I realize that parents want their children to be safe while walking on the street, but is a leash necessary? What do you all think?

My First Time...

2008-02-09T00:49:00.001-05:00

Wow... it has been a while since my last post, but I'm happy to say I'm back!! I have never followed politics as closely as I'm following the '08 elections, and I'm proud to say that tonight I hit the streets to encourage folks to vote for Barack Obama in Tuesday's upcoming primaries. I have watched all of the debates and have steadily grown fonder of Barack Obama and his position on key issues.

As my husband, James and I held up posters and handed out pamphlets around Dupont Circle, I couldn't help but get chills as cars honked their horns in support of Barack Obama! As expected, there were many folks who openly voiced their distaste for him, too --one woman gently said that she'd be voting for Hillary Clinton, but mentioned that she'd like to see them on the same ticket--while one man flicked off James so furiously as he drove by that he probably would have crashed if any other cars would have been present! Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but it makes me concerned when some folks appear to be fueled by anger. Other folks seemed a bit apathetic, as they tried to cut a wide angle or divert their eyes from any Obama supporters. However, the beauty and emotion of the night could not be tainted by these negative aspects because young folks truly came out in droves to encourage people to vote for change!

One funny thing that happened was that I ran into my friend Jenna as I was chanting, "Vote for Obama on February 12th!" I locked eyes with her 3 times and each time she yelled back, "Yeah--Obama!" And as I continued to yell, "Jenna!" she kept yelling, "Yeah--Obama!!" We laughed when we finally recognized each other because in those initial moments, we were solely connecting as Obama supporters, not friends.

When the media mentions that Barack Obama has mobilized young voters, it's really true --he in turn believes that we are the future and that change starts with us. I am very hopeful that Barack Obama will be the next President of the United States. He inspires hope in me and many folks across the world. VOTE FOR CHANGE, YA'LL!

The Spanish Experiment

2008-01-27T15:47:00.001-05:00

My husband and I have started a 7 day experiment today --we will speak nothing but Spanish to each other for an entire week. I can't tell if we'll have a relatively silent home for the next few days or a great experience. I know it has definitely felt a bit strange for me. It's hard when you want to say so many things, but are working with a limited vocabulary. This must be similar to how young children feel when they are forming their first words and trying to express themselves to their parents and siblings. I'll let you know how it goes folks!

Did we come here for the Food?

2008-01-25T23:13:00.000-05:00

Going out to dinner with friends is more about the company than the food--it's an added bonus when the food is off the hook! Tonight was one of those nights when the food was just 'blah', but the 'shits and giggles' were fit for center stage at the Apollo. It was the perfect closing to my first week of work, and we were also celebrating another friend's new job -- celebrations all around!

Sometimes, there's nothing better than sitting in a restaurant, shooting the breeze with good friends ;-)

Lights out... until next!

1st Day was All Good!

2008-01-23T17:50:00.000-05:00

Hello folks,

I'm happy to report that today was my first day of work at a bilingual education non-profit. I'm working as a contract marketing specialist 3 days a week, and I'm digging the flexibility. It's also pretty cool because my office mate Julio wants to help me learn Spanish in exchange that I help him improve his English. The position seems like it has lots of potential because I am tasked with updating their collateral materials and website, implementing their marketing plan, and performing media relations. It's always cool to execute projects from start to finish and I'll be working under the direction of a board member.

And, another added bonus is that cute 2-4 year-olds are on site learning and just being all around cute! It's really interesting to watch how small children process information and even more so when they are processing data in two languages. That's all for now.... nap time!

Blessing in Disguise

2008-01-19T22:19:00.000-05:00

On Friday, I found out that I did not get the 24/7 PR job, and it's a blessing in disguise! Rejection is still painful, even if you know it's for the best. The key is to acknowledge your disappointment, then keep it moving!! My other prospective employer followed up with me and I'll meet with them in- person on Tuesday. I'm excited about this and believe that this opportunity has tremendous potential! Stay tuned!

On Call 24/7?

2008-01-17T22:53:00.000-05:00

I had my third interview and I felt all right about it. Now, the interviews are really to see if the office culture, staff, and myself mix. One common theme that has arisen in all interviews is how hard everyone works. Today, I was told that they all have blackberries and are on call 24/7. If they get an email, they are expected to respond, regardless of the time.

Could this all really be true? The pr firm that I previously worked at was very fast-paced and there were nights when I worked all weekend or was up until midnight finishing up a project. This occurred sometimes, not 24/7. Additionally, I like to give each project 100+%, so I definitely consider myself a hard worker. I'll figure things out soon enough. Another company has offered me a position, so I'll speak with them tomorrow to get the details. Stay tuned.

Public Libraries Rock!!

2008-01-16T17:35:00.000-05:00

I recently got a library card and I felt like a child in a candy store! The library down the street from our new place is nicer than the one in our old neighborhood, and boy does lighting make a difference! The staff at Wheaton Public Library is very helpful and truly loves what they do--this adds to the pleasurable experience ;-) I picked up some books about advertising, public relations, blogs, newlyweds' finances, Spanish, and Barack Obama. You can even check out 50 books/videos at once!

One the the PR books recently helped me refresh my writing skills and came in handy during an interview when I had to write a press release on the spot. I felt so confident with my press release and have my third interview with this firm tomorrow. All in all, this is definitely one of my favorite places to be.

Round and a Round I go!

2008-01-14T19:07:00.000-05:00

My head always got extremely dizzy on the merry go 'round and the hanging tire, so I avoided them at all costs. Every once in a while, I'd try to give them a spin, and would end up with a horrendous headache!

This week kicks off the third round of interviews for me at two firms and a new firm has entered the mix. Interviews don't make me dizzy, per say, but I am ready for the rounds to cease! It's very thorough and respectable for a firm to have strict hiring practices, but at what point does it become work itself? I'm very interested in three of the opportunities and will keep plugging away. My brief sabbatical has re-awoken my passion for public relations and all I can say is that it's truly fascinating;-)

Which Voice is Right?

2008-01-12T21:25:00.000-05:00

Today, I created an mp3 in hopes of doing some voice overs for a production company. Boy, is it a trip to hear your own voice! For the most part, I am aware of what I sound like, but hearing myself on a recording is another story. It was fun to try and convey a certain emotion in the reading. Stay tuned ya'll, I'll let you know if I'm selected.

I'm on the Apprentice, Y'all

2008-01-09T20:15:00.000-05:00

Today I wrapped up my second interview of the week and have one more tomorrow. I honestly feel like I should be on the Apprentice or write a book. The preparation that goes into each interview is so intensive and companies don't only want to know about you --they also want to know what you know about them! These have all been second round interviews, and I won't be surprised if there is a third round! I'll provide a brief bulleted list of interview tips:

*Dress for Success:
If you feel confident in your snazzy suit, you'll exude confidence throughout your interview!

* The Early Bird Gets the Worm:
Allow enough time before your interview to familiarize yourself with the company's location. Plan to arrive at the interview 10 minutes early. This shows that you're time conscious and it's not so early that you appear anxious.

*Don't Deliberately Burn Yourself Out:
I made the mistake of having two interviews in one day and was completely drained when all was said and done. Avoid this at all costs for best results :-)

* Practice, Practice, Practice:
Rehearse in the mirror, with your friends and your mentors. You'll feel more comfortable in the real interview!

*Remember your Manners:
Always send a thank you card within 24 hours of your interview. This small gesture will make you stand out against other candidates. It is good to send an email thank you as well.

Marriage = Joint Accounts?

2008-01-07T16:30:00.000-05:00

I recently got married at the end of October and changing your name on legal and financial documents can be quite the chore. When I changed my name with my local bank, I was asked on multiple occasions by different representatives why my husband and I don't have a joint account. To be honest, it's none of their business, but what caught my attention was that some people naturally expect couples to share one account. Times have changed since the 20th century and couples are deciding what works best for their household. There have been some great articles advising couples on their financial options, and I'd like to hear your thoughts on this matter.

My Personal Cheerleaders

2008-01-07T15:36:00.000-05:00

I have been going through a career change for the past two months and I cannot stress enough the importance of surrounding yourself with positive people through times of change. When I have felt discouraged, my family and friends have rooted me on. They have edited my personal statements, role-played interviews, provided advice on asking for references, shared their insights regarding different fields and have always made time to listen to me rant or rave about interviews. This has been tremendously helpful for me. You are appreciated!! Folks, you know who you are!!

So, to bring things up to speed:

I have 3 interviews this week and I've been receiving pep-talks left and right. Articles have appeared on MSN Explorer stating that now is the time to find a job, and boy do I believe it! As I was driving back home this afternoon, I realized that I have a figurative entourage of folks surrounding me at all times and truly are my personal cheerleaders. For those of you who were never cheerleaders in junior high, try to root on a friend today --it's a win-win situation.

What is a Jacquelination?

2008-01-05T19:49:00.000-05:00

Everyone has their own footprint, trademark, scent and manner--this is what makes us stand out as individuals. The funny thing is that no matter how hard one tries, one will never smell their own special scent. Therefore, it's always amusing when folks openly share their thoughts about you.

When I left my previous job at a PR firm, my colleagues somewhat 'roasted' me and let me know what they'd miss about me. They said things like , "I'll miss your cheerful nature and honesty," and "we'll miss seeing you dance around the office," and "we'll miss hearing you say 'o-ish' and other catch phrases..."

I told everyone that I would still be with them because my 'Jacquelinations' would live on. I still keep in touch with my colleagues and many of them were at my recent wedding. I always smile to myself when I hear them say "o-ish." As I speak out on issues such as love, life and work, I hope you'll find some of my take-aways helpful in your own lives.

Look Mom, I have a Blog!

2008-01-05T18:26:00.001-05:00

Wow, I never thought this day would come, but more and more I've been feeling the tug to share my thoughts online! Plus... it's 2008, and for the next month at least, that can be anyone's response to any question. Go ahead, try it!