Break the routine

Every day is a different day. Some days are plain, some are special and some are lonely. I started off the week feeling low probably because I've been doing what I'm doing a bit long (with no breaks or whatsoever) and I needed something new. I've been procrastinating a trip with Jakob to an indoor playground that's just a bus ride away from our place. So yesterday, I woke up feeling jumpy already. After a therapeutic conversation my mom (that's how I describe it because I suddenly felt fine by just a mere voice of a woman who knows me best), I decided I've got to help myself and just do something.
I initially planned for two bus rides. I was imagining Jakob running on the grass at the Americana at Brand in Glendale (hip and cool place). So I took the 10:15 am ride and got down to my first stop, four minutes later. I still have ten minutes to wait for the next bus to get to Glendale. But, I suddenly realized, I shouldn't be going that far if we can walk to the playground which is two blocks away. And so, I followed my gut. Paid $9 for a whole day play (which we didn't do of course), with free wifi internet and an enormous joy I gave my son.
I've been skeptical the past months if Jakob can handle other kids. He's been around older kids which spoils him a bit, as he usually gets what he wants. So, I realized this is the best time to give it a shot. My happiness multiplied as I see him smiling at other kids and saying "baby" and "hi" to them. He's such a delight!

We were there for the whole two hours and ended up our trip with lunch at the famous Oinkster in Eagle Rock. When we got home, I was even more productive with household chores and felt very proud for it. Now I thought I should do this regularly :-) Weekly, I guess. I'll see.


http://www.flickr.com/photos/11022197@N03/4389655875/in/set-72157623367768859/

As a tribute to "breaking the routine" theme today, I'm sharing a recipe that made the turn a lot tastier not just for me but for Jakob, or maybe your toddler too.

Breakfast: Cheese Omelet with Cumin

Recipe:
-2 eggs
-cheese (your desired amount but not as much as the 2 eggs :-)
-a pinch of cumin (you can buy in Asian stores)
Note: no need for salt as you already have cheese in it, for the flavah!

Steps:
1. Beat the eggs, add a bit of water (to prevent the egg from toasting). Then add a pinch of cumin.
2. Heat the pan, add a small amount of oil. When temp is high, turn it into medium low heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture and after about 30 sec, add the cheese.
4. Fold the egg and when it is fluffy, turn off heat and put in a plate.
5. Toast some bread. Spread some butter/jam if desired. Matched with your favorite fruit or yogurt.