Monday has become my day to really get the house in shape. We had lots of extra things to accomplish today. We did almost all of them, except cleaning the fish tank. I dread cleaning the fish tank. I have to get it done sooner than later. It was the thing I could not think of to add to my list until I went into the boys room.
I feel I am always trying to find ways to change things around the house. I made a "honey do" list for N today. It's not too long, 4 or 5 things. Hopefully we get it done sooner than later.
Three was too funny today. We went out to the store. She was dressed in brown leggings with a brown shirt and a navy blue skirt with a pink and white pattern. She had white socks and ruby red shoes! I was going to make her change, but N said she looked great and we should go. So, away we went! She was complete with a red Christmas bag to keep our list in. She has grown used to not being able to get everything she wants at the store. She has caught on to why we aren't getting it by saying "because it's not on sale?" We are working on it.
Five came home very dirty. He confessed to me he fell in the mud at school. He seemed pretty worried when telling me his story. I guess he wasn't wet, still not sure I understood it all. This week I teach the boys German. I have 20 + plates to draw birds on for the kids to decorate. I already did 20 so I am halfway there. I am trying to get everything together for this week and the weeks to come. We have lots planned in a short time before we make the big journey to MN! The kids are so excited. They already have a ton of snow. A classmate from high school called me tonight to make some plans. Should be fun. I am anxious to see everyone and excited to attend a new years eve wedding!
I have been recently in touch with a friend from Romania. I am so thankful for the Internet and bringing my European group of friends back together. She has a beautiful daughter I may have never seen without Facebook. Looking forward to getting to know her all over again!
We had a nice evening today that will end with a movie for N and I. I hope your night was as good as ours.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Things to know about Three
I hear a snap noise coming from her room. Silence, then something hits the wall and snap again. She has shut all the doors to every room upstairs. I open them, she closes them again. We meet in the hallway, she is dressed in new clothes. I ask "How many hangers did you break?" Not really expecting an answer then she says "Only two." Oh boy.
Three.
The day she was born was one of the happiest days of my life. I could not believe God had truly blessed us with a baby girl. Of course my feelings were strong after having two boys, and I would have loved a baby boy no matter what. My grandmother had prayed every day for us to get a girl. The feelings that came with a girl were unexplainable. As she grew, she gave me strength. She less than 4 months old and N had to go away for 3 months. We saw him for a few days at Christmas, but that was it. I was with my family, which made being alone with three small children much easier. Still, even with family around, its not the same without the dad. The time seemed to pass just fine thanks to her. It didn't matter if I was the only one getting up with her in the night. We were a pair making it through this time together. Tough times were around the corner, we were not aware. I am not sure how we survived that winter, but we did and prevailed.
She learned to sleep through the night and enjoyed being in a room with her brothers. It wasn't until they started school and she didn't want to go to bed, we had to separate them. At first they all wanted to be together, but she would try to wake up Six. He needed rest for the long days at school. Eventually she got it too and went to bed as good as the rest. She enjoys her space, its just for girls. It's her own area to do as she pleases. Attending school has been great for her. She's grown so much and has much more to learn. Each day she impresses me with something new. She is sweet and sassy. She has her daddy wrapped around her finger. She can pull his strings and get him to do almost anything for her. She loves to read and paint and draw. Her pictures are in the lines. She sings though out the house her songs from preschool. She can be independent and proud. Babies are her thing. She loves babies. Theresa and Lucy are among the favorites. They have replaced her first Purple baby. She tells people she is a big sister because she wants nothing to do with being little. She can have fun with and irritate her brothers beyond anything else. They too will cater to her needs and wants. She loves to pick out her own clothing and eats really well. She eats the most vegetables and fruit of all our kids. We recently started braiding her hair. I only do it when she is interested. She loves to wear dresses and has finally agreed to tights. Her red shoes are her favorite. My sister supplies her with really cute coats. She calls them her "J coats." When asked why she calls them this, her reply is "Because they are from My J." She talks about her grandma all the time and misses her terribly. She loves her Uncle D and giggles when talking to him. She is shy around strangers and cautious around animals. She loves the zoo and swimming activities. At a very young age she had no fear of the water and just went right in. For sometime she was a boss and not very nice. She attacked one of her cousins and scratched his face. She was the first to bite at ECFE. Snap. There goes another hanger. That makes Three!
She is eager for Christmas and will give us trouble on our long trip no doubt. She has been the queen of the back seat, right in the middle of the boys on her throne. This year she is behind her daddy, we will see how that goes. Three, as sweet as can be. Three, the spice in our life. Three, brought nail polish and hair ties back into the house. Three, with blonde curls and pink lips. Famous words from Three "I want you."
I love you Three.
Three.
The day she was born was one of the happiest days of my life. I could not believe God had truly blessed us with a baby girl. Of course my feelings were strong after having two boys, and I would have loved a baby boy no matter what. My grandmother had prayed every day for us to get a girl. The feelings that came with a girl were unexplainable. As she grew, she gave me strength. She less than 4 months old and N had to go away for 3 months. We saw him for a few days at Christmas, but that was it. I was with my family, which made being alone with three small children much easier. Still, even with family around, its not the same without the dad. The time seemed to pass just fine thanks to her. It didn't matter if I was the only one getting up with her in the night. We were a pair making it through this time together. Tough times were around the corner, we were not aware. I am not sure how we survived that winter, but we did and prevailed.
She learned to sleep through the night and enjoyed being in a room with her brothers. It wasn't until they started school and she didn't want to go to bed, we had to separate them. At first they all wanted to be together, but she would try to wake up Six. He needed rest for the long days at school. Eventually she got it too and went to bed as good as the rest. She enjoys her space, its just for girls. It's her own area to do as she pleases. Attending school has been great for her. She's grown so much and has much more to learn. Each day she impresses me with something new. She is sweet and sassy. She has her daddy wrapped around her finger. She can pull his strings and get him to do almost anything for her. She loves to read and paint and draw. Her pictures are in the lines. She sings though out the house her songs from preschool. She can be independent and proud. Babies are her thing. She loves babies. Theresa and Lucy are among the favorites. They have replaced her first Purple baby. She tells people she is a big sister because she wants nothing to do with being little. She can have fun with and irritate her brothers beyond anything else. They too will cater to her needs and wants. She loves to pick out her own clothing and eats really well. She eats the most vegetables and fruit of all our kids. We recently started braiding her hair. I only do it when she is interested. She loves to wear dresses and has finally agreed to tights. Her red shoes are her favorite. My sister supplies her with really cute coats. She calls them her "J coats." When asked why she calls them this, her reply is "Because they are from My J." She talks about her grandma all the time and misses her terribly. She loves her Uncle D and giggles when talking to him. She is shy around strangers and cautious around animals. She loves the zoo and swimming activities. At a very young age she had no fear of the water and just went right in. For sometime she was a boss and not very nice. She attacked one of her cousins and scratched his face. She was the first to bite at ECFE. Snap. There goes another hanger. That makes Three!
She is eager for Christmas and will give us trouble on our long trip no doubt. She has been the queen of the back seat, right in the middle of the boys on her throne. This year she is behind her daddy, we will see how that goes. Three, as sweet as can be. Three, the spice in our life. Three, brought nail polish and hair ties back into the house. Three, with blonde curls and pink lips. Famous words from Three "I want you."
I love you Three.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Report Card
Received Five's report card today. He is doing great. He needs to work on being responsible for his personal belongings. Not sure how we are going to drill that into his head. He also has a few letters to recognize the sounds, but other than that he is swell. We have conferences tomorrow for Six. Both Six and Three have Thanksgiving specials tomorrow at the same time. Six is proud that his dad will be attending and even volunteered to run a game! Three is thrilled with me. Poor Five felt a little left out, until I told him maybe we could come for lunch when we were done with everything else.
I am almost finished with my can turkey project. I have 20 some cans with Popsicle stick feathers, but no heads. I still have to cut out heads and beaks. The kids will glue it all together. I am halfway packed for the holiday weekend. My brownies for church need toppings and I finished manicotti for supper tomorrow night. On a role, but still lots to do. Running out of steam now that I sat down. Two out of the tub, one to go. Kitchen is still a mess. I made Miss Ruby's stir fry tonight. I even bought Jasmine rice! Well, N is back from fishing. Better not get caught down on the job!
I am almost finished with my can turkey project. I have 20 some cans with Popsicle stick feathers, but no heads. I still have to cut out heads and beaks. The kids will glue it all together. I am halfway packed for the holiday weekend. My brownies for church need toppings and I finished manicotti for supper tomorrow night. On a role, but still lots to do. Running out of steam now that I sat down. Two out of the tub, one to go. Kitchen is still a mess. I made Miss Ruby's stir fry tonight. I even bought Jasmine rice! Well, N is back from fishing. Better not get caught down on the job!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Things to know about Five
What is it to be Five?
It's Lego's and Nerf guns. It's learning to ride your bike without training wheels and daring to do tricks on your scooter. Our Five is independent and stubborn, determined and strong willed. He has many little quirks about himself, little ism's that make him unique. He is the joker in the bus line that makes the big kids smile. He reminds us to pray before our meals and at bedtime. He accommodates his little sister when she insists she is big. He wants tie shoes even though he can't tie. He tries new foods and thinks spinach is going to make him bigger than his older brother. He can call my bluff when he doesn't want to do something. He is a peacemaker between his siblings and others. He is a leader with his younger friends. He can completely frustrate me, wanting to pull out my hair. He is concerned about the feelings of others. He needs a particular wardrobe that accommodates only him. He needs to decide what to wear and when without suggestions from anyone. He is sold on clothing from other kids that he knows. He loves to hear stories about living in Texas before he goes to bed. He is eager to read and write. Sometimes he reminds me of my dad. There are some similarities there besides the name John. He is eager to please me and notices things that I do. He can spy things in a room, Grandpa calls him I spy. Grandpa says "The eyes (I's) have it!" He is kind and loving. He likes to sleep with his baby blanket folded under his pillow. He is proud to be in his Sunday school class and lead his sister. He enjoys all his new friends from school. He is eager to play with others. He can page me from anywhere in our house. He likes to know where I am in the house. He likes to use a blanket from my bed and be wrapped up like in a sleeping bag. He loves to draw and color. He wants to do his older brothers homework. He cares what others think and at the same time does not. He wore play clothes to church our entire first summer in Michigan. He wore no clothes our last two weeks in Minnesota. He loves flip flops and hated tennis shoes for many months. He loves pictures from the past. He loves going to Grandma's house. He loves animals. He once wanted a lion for a pet instead of fish because "fish are boring." This was after his fish was eaten by the other fish. He had the most unique Halloween costume and didn't care if no one knew what he was supposed to be. He wants to wear shorts outside when it is under 45 degrees. He loves telling our neighbor stories and always wants to go to her house. He loves adult toothpaste and enjoys using flossers. He is the worst customer for a haircut, but did great at the dentist. He loves his Aunt J's basement and all her treasures. He misses going to her house. He can give a friend a nick name that will stick. He thinks of others for awhile after he has heard what happened to them and stays concerned. He loves babies and prays for his little cousins. He is almost always the first one awake in our house. He loves to bake and frost cookies. He likes to get messy, but not too messy. He does not like sunscreen. When he learned to swim, he was always under the water. He got his first pair of goggles when he was three and barely came up for air. He gets frustrated easily, but can turn it around just as quickly as the frustration came.
He did not get on the bus on Friday morning. He looked at me with big eyes, took off and ran for home. He was scared, yet confident. He did not want to wear the coat he had on. He was worried about its length and that people would laugh at him. It is the same length on him as the rest of the children. It looks almost identical to the other boy getting on the bus. He changed his coat three times before going to the bus stop. Three was shocked when he ran away from the bus stop. It is unheard of to miss the bus! I love Five with all my heart and cannot imagine our family without him. He is a great kid and wonderful son. He makes us laugh daily. I cannot wait to see what he grows up to be. Whatever it is, I am sure he will be brilliant at it.
It's Lego's and Nerf guns. It's learning to ride your bike without training wheels and daring to do tricks on your scooter. Our Five is independent and stubborn, determined and strong willed. He has many little quirks about himself, little ism's that make him unique. He is the joker in the bus line that makes the big kids smile. He reminds us to pray before our meals and at bedtime. He accommodates his little sister when she insists she is big. He wants tie shoes even though he can't tie. He tries new foods and thinks spinach is going to make him bigger than his older brother. He can call my bluff when he doesn't want to do something. He is a peacemaker between his siblings and others. He is a leader with his younger friends. He can completely frustrate me, wanting to pull out my hair. He is concerned about the feelings of others. He needs a particular wardrobe that accommodates only him. He needs to decide what to wear and when without suggestions from anyone. He is sold on clothing from other kids that he knows. He loves to hear stories about living in Texas before he goes to bed. He is eager to read and write. Sometimes he reminds me of my dad. There are some similarities there besides the name John. He is eager to please me and notices things that I do. He can spy things in a room, Grandpa calls him I spy. Grandpa says "The eyes (I's) have it!" He is kind and loving. He likes to sleep with his baby blanket folded under his pillow. He is proud to be in his Sunday school class and lead his sister. He enjoys all his new friends from school. He is eager to play with others. He can page me from anywhere in our house. He likes to know where I am in the house. He likes to use a blanket from my bed and be wrapped up like in a sleeping bag. He loves to draw and color. He wants to do his older brothers homework. He cares what others think and at the same time does not. He wore play clothes to church our entire first summer in Michigan. He wore no clothes our last two weeks in Minnesota. He loves flip flops and hated tennis shoes for many months. He loves pictures from the past. He loves going to Grandma's house. He loves animals. He once wanted a lion for a pet instead of fish because "fish are boring." This was after his fish was eaten by the other fish. He had the most unique Halloween costume and didn't care if no one knew what he was supposed to be. He wants to wear shorts outside when it is under 45 degrees. He loves telling our neighbor stories and always wants to go to her house. He loves adult toothpaste and enjoys using flossers. He is the worst customer for a haircut, but did great at the dentist. He loves his Aunt J's basement and all her treasures. He misses going to her house. He can give a friend a nick name that will stick. He thinks of others for awhile after he has heard what happened to them and stays concerned. He loves babies and prays for his little cousins. He is almost always the first one awake in our house. He loves to bake and frost cookies. He likes to get messy, but not too messy. He does not like sunscreen. When he learned to swim, he was always under the water. He got his first pair of goggles when he was three and barely came up for air. He gets frustrated easily, but can turn it around just as quickly as the frustration came.
He did not get on the bus on Friday morning. He looked at me with big eyes, took off and ran for home. He was scared, yet confident. He did not want to wear the coat he had on. He was worried about its length and that people would laugh at him. It is the same length on him as the rest of the children. It looks almost identical to the other boy getting on the bus. He changed his coat three times before going to the bus stop. Three was shocked when he ran away from the bus stop. It is unheard of to miss the bus! I love Five with all my heart and cannot imagine our family without him. He is a great kid and wonderful son. He makes us laugh daily. I cannot wait to see what he grows up to be. Whatever it is, I am sure he will be brilliant at it.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Ahead of schedule
We are doing things early tonight. The kids spent the morning with their dad. I was able to get my Christmas shopping done. I have three gifts left and we are completely done. Great deals so far and everyone will be happy.
The boys are in the tub already. It is early, but that's alright. We have no where to go the rest of the night. The girl had an accident, thus the early bath for her. She seemed truly sorry. We have one or two per month it seems.
I think my kids are missing the pool. The boys are practicing holding their breath under water. They are also practicing swimming techniques. I hope during the holidays we can get to a pool a few times.
We finally figured out our Thanksgiving plans. I am very excited this year. We will travel to N's parents on Wed. Rare moment, both he and the kids are off from school. That night we will go to his Aunt and Uncle's house. He will either leave us there that night, or drive home the next morning for work. We will spend Thanksgiving there. Not sure when we will go home yet. N might pick us up Friday or Saturday morning. We will see. The kids are very excited to see everyone. We hope to see their cousins and maybe the newest cousin. I don't even know his name yet. I have been thinking of them often and hope they are doing well.
I have turkeys to make out of cans and sticks for RE on Thursday. I am also trying to figure out the St. Nikolaus thing. Just not sure what else I should bring with me. I would like to find a picture. Five asked me what color he wore, if it was green. We will see how it goes. They are anxious to decorate for Christmas. I am anxious to get baking. Zinnia has some blue jars she wants to part with. We plan to fill them up and give them away. They will look pretty with Christmas treats in them. I have more people to give to this year than last. I would like to give to more neighbors and people from the church. Should make for a large baking session. I am sure it will be quite a few days. I am excited she wants to do it with me. She might even bring over her Kitchen aid mixer! What a treat that will be. I hope to post some pictures of our creations. We will see if we come up with anything new this year.
Our trip to MN will be here before we know it. We get to leave early this year, for that I am thankful and excited. It will be nice to have more time in the MPLS area. We skipped that visit last summer.
Praying for a smooth, quiet night this evening. Hope they are calm and happy.
The boys are in the tub already. It is early, but that's alright. We have no where to go the rest of the night. The girl had an accident, thus the early bath for her. She seemed truly sorry. We have one or two per month it seems.
I think my kids are missing the pool. The boys are practicing holding their breath under water. They are also practicing swimming techniques. I hope during the holidays we can get to a pool a few times.
We finally figured out our Thanksgiving plans. I am very excited this year. We will travel to N's parents on Wed. Rare moment, both he and the kids are off from school. That night we will go to his Aunt and Uncle's house. He will either leave us there that night, or drive home the next morning for work. We will spend Thanksgiving there. Not sure when we will go home yet. N might pick us up Friday or Saturday morning. We will see. The kids are very excited to see everyone. We hope to see their cousins and maybe the newest cousin. I don't even know his name yet. I have been thinking of them often and hope they are doing well.
I have turkeys to make out of cans and sticks for RE on Thursday. I am also trying to figure out the St. Nikolaus thing. Just not sure what else I should bring with me. I would like to find a picture. Five asked me what color he wore, if it was green. We will see how it goes. They are anxious to decorate for Christmas. I am anxious to get baking. Zinnia has some blue jars she wants to part with. We plan to fill them up and give them away. They will look pretty with Christmas treats in them. I have more people to give to this year than last. I would like to give to more neighbors and people from the church. Should make for a large baking session. I am sure it will be quite a few days. I am excited she wants to do it with me. She might even bring over her Kitchen aid mixer! What a treat that will be. I hope to post some pictures of our creations. We will see if we come up with anything new this year.
Our trip to MN will be here before we know it. We get to leave early this year, for that I am thankful and excited. It will be nice to have more time in the MPLS area. We skipped that visit last summer.
Praying for a smooth, quiet night this evening. Hope they are calm and happy.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Just when we were on a role
Five put me up for a challenge this morning. He did not get on the bus like he was supposed to. All sorts of fuss over his coat. "Why does he have so many?" Was N's reaction. He was right. Why does he have so many? They were either left from last year or inherited. The church is having a coat drive this weekend. Guess we can narrow it down to one or two and donate the rest.
I struggle with the morning routine once again. We were doing great. The change is the winter clothing. There is too much protest. We watched the weather report this morning, it is time to bundle! Those were the exact words from the weather person. Now to wait for Five to accept the change. Hopefully next week will be better. They only have two days of school next week, then the holiday. Our plans are still not final. Looks like Wednesday we will go visit N's family. Thursday, we may stay at his Aunt and Uncle's for Thanksgiving, then stop and visit the new baby at his sisters house. We will see how it all turns out.
I struggle with the morning routine once again. We were doing great. The change is the winter clothing. There is too much protest. We watched the weather report this morning, it is time to bundle! Those were the exact words from the weather person. Now to wait for Five to accept the change. Hopefully next week will be better. They only have two days of school next week, then the holiday. Our plans are still not final. Looks like Wednesday we will go visit N's family. Thursday, we may stay at his Aunt and Uncle's for Thanksgiving, then stop and visit the new baby at his sisters house. We will see how it all turns out.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
For the Bible tells me so
I have heard this over and over today from Three. She is singing such sweet songs at preschool. Reminds me of my little sis and myself when we were younger. The boys are currently making a lot of noise in the garage. Not sure what they are doing, but glad they are getting it out of their systems.
7:30 bedtime! The Big Bang Theory and Greys, all in one night!
Not sure why, but everyone was very whiny tonight. From the moment they walked in the door, they were whining. We had an early supper and played outside. A snack and lots of books completed our night. Baths too were early, including a hair trim just before. That was not pleasant, Five is so very difficult with hair cuts. I don't know how that will ever get better.
I am happy to report on my Reformation ideas. We are kneeling at Five's bed each night to say the Our Father and then something each of us would like to pray for. Five reminds us each night. The Lord has found his way into that boys heart. He is always reminding us to pray. I am so grateful for him at those moments. Others, I am not sure why he acts the way he does, but it is all in His plan. He completes us with all his little quirks. He is getting better.
We still have tense moments, but I feel I am handling them much better. I was on a role with my workout, but did not make it today. I had a migraine, hopefully the last for this month. Tomorrow will be better. I had a terrible dream last night that the world was ending. Not sure where that came from, but it was stressful sleep.
It is amazing what changing your outlook on things can do for your spirit. I feel much better about many things after my Reformation blog. Perhaps putting it down and making such a statement helped me to really change my focus. We will see how the long weekend goes. We have many things to get done this weekend.
Six was reading to Five and Three tonight. I am loving this part!
Oh someone is still up. More to come....
It's Five, he needs to use the facilities. He comes and makes his announcement with a smile. He is wearing a baseball cap and new Darth Vader PJ top I found at Old Navy today for 99 cents.
My sister in law had a baby today. My mother in law called to share the news this morning. I was happy for them, but also sad. We have become very distant. I guess it is my fault for bringing up my frustrations with a situation last spring. I want to call, but really don't feel I can. When the situation was all said and done, I was left still feeling awkward. I do not regret standing up for myself. My greatest sadness is for the children. My kids loved spending time with theirs. We had wonderful times and made many great memories. She made it clear that the trust was gone. It is as if we are distant relatives and do not communicate anymore. So is life I guess. Not everyone gets along at all times. Maybe some day we will get together again. For now I will pray for them and their new addition. They have been on my mind many times for the last six months. Each time my kids mention them, I feel a pain in my heart. It has gotten better over time, I don't feel quite as sensitive about it anymore. Prayer and time will only tell.
7:30 bedtime! The Big Bang Theory and Greys, all in one night!
Not sure why, but everyone was very whiny tonight. From the moment they walked in the door, they were whining. We had an early supper and played outside. A snack and lots of books completed our night. Baths too were early, including a hair trim just before. That was not pleasant, Five is so very difficult with hair cuts. I don't know how that will ever get better.
I am happy to report on my Reformation ideas. We are kneeling at Five's bed each night to say the Our Father and then something each of us would like to pray for. Five reminds us each night. The Lord has found his way into that boys heart. He is always reminding us to pray. I am so grateful for him at those moments. Others, I am not sure why he acts the way he does, but it is all in His plan. He completes us with all his little quirks. He is getting better.
We still have tense moments, but I feel I am handling them much better. I was on a role with my workout, but did not make it today. I had a migraine, hopefully the last for this month. Tomorrow will be better. I had a terrible dream last night that the world was ending. Not sure where that came from, but it was stressful sleep.
It is amazing what changing your outlook on things can do for your spirit. I feel much better about many things after my Reformation blog. Perhaps putting it down and making such a statement helped me to really change my focus. We will see how the long weekend goes. We have many things to get done this weekend.
Six was reading to Five and Three tonight. I am loving this part!
Oh someone is still up. More to come....
It's Five, he needs to use the facilities. He comes and makes his announcement with a smile. He is wearing a baseball cap and new Darth Vader PJ top I found at Old Navy today for 99 cents.
My sister in law had a baby today. My mother in law called to share the news this morning. I was happy for them, but also sad. We have become very distant. I guess it is my fault for bringing up my frustrations with a situation last spring. I want to call, but really don't feel I can. When the situation was all said and done, I was left still feeling awkward. I do not regret standing up for myself. My greatest sadness is for the children. My kids loved spending time with theirs. We had wonderful times and made many great memories. She made it clear that the trust was gone. It is as if we are distant relatives and do not communicate anymore. So is life I guess. Not everyone gets along at all times. Maybe some day we will get together again. For now I will pray for them and their new addition. They have been on my mind many times for the last six months. Each time my kids mention them, I feel a pain in my heart. It has gotten better over time, I don't feel quite as sensitive about it anymore. Prayer and time will only tell.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Good things come to those who wait
We have been waiting for the right van to come into our lives. Yesterday, we thought we had found that van. Just when we decided to commit, it was already sold. So, that is life. No worries. I was slightly disappointed, but we have waited this long, it will come in time.
I have also been amazed at Five and how interested he is in writing. We have an art easel. On one side is chalk, the other dry erase. He has been writing Six's spelling words on it and other words he knows. I think it has helped his knowledge of letters. Last week I noticed a broken dry erase board in a room at church. Today I asked about it. With a phone call to Zinnia to bring her truck into town, it is ours! I am so excited. Not sure where we will put it, but I can't wait to see where it takes the kids and their handwriting. I hope to find dry erase markers in ever stalking this year! Will post pictures when we get it placed and all figured out.
It's all in His plan, just need to be a little (or a lot) patient, and good things do come.
I have also been amazed at Five and how interested he is in writing. We have an art easel. On one side is chalk, the other dry erase. He has been writing Six's spelling words on it and other words he knows. I think it has helped his knowledge of letters. Last week I noticed a broken dry erase board in a room at church. Today I asked about it. With a phone call to Zinnia to bring her truck into town, it is ours! I am so excited. Not sure where we will put it, but I can't wait to see where it takes the kids and their handwriting. I hope to find dry erase markers in ever stalking this year! Will post pictures when we get it placed and all figured out.
It's all in His plan, just need to be a little (or a lot) patient, and good things do come.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Reformation
After my last post, I was told I needed to "chill out." I upset some people with that post. For that, I apologize. Life is hard. I am still trying to figure this all out.
Why to I get so upset so easily? I have sort of lost track in handing it over to God and keep my faith in whatever the situation is. It is so easy to give in to the frustration. I am reading the book "The Shack" and still am not sure what to think of it. Makes you analyze the things you have learned in the church. What would it really be like to meet Jesus, God and the Holy Spirit? I hadn't put that much thought directly into it until I started reading this book. I am about half way through. So far, the beginning was good, but I am a little lost for interest in the middle. He spends time with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. It seems a little repetitive and just filler. We will see where it takes me.
To deal with all this frustration, I am trying to get more organized with many areas in my life. Today it is the house, which is a never ending task. I rearranged the entire living room. Almost everything is in a different place. Went through the kids books, created new areas for them. I started on Saturday and Zinnia came to help me on Sunday after mass. She was most irritated by my blog.
It's hard to feel settled with life when there are so many questions, things up in the air. Will we stay here? When will we leave? Nothing is permanent. I don't think I will feel settled until I know N has a job he likes and we own the house we live in. I feel like we are stuck in limbo, not sure which way to go. How do I get past that and be content where I am right now?
Reformation. Is that the right word? Do I need to change the way I look at everything? Try not to let the evil of frustration take over so easily and give it over to the Lord. Just go with things as they come. I am such a planner, it is hard to not have it all straightened out ahead of time. For some reason, Thanksgiving is on my mind all the time. It seems I have a fear of spending the holiday alone as we did last year. It was so very depressing. Just not sure which direction to turn. Maybe I just need to put it out of my mind and not worry. Sometimes I feel this frustration occurs after I have had a migraine. That experience can be so hard on the entire house. I try my best to power through it, take my meds on time and keep moving. I don't want the pain to take over and crawl under a rock. Many times that is how I feel, but can't for my family. These kids need my. All I want is to give them a great foundation and wonderful memories. I need to embrace motherhood more. Worry less about the schedule and mess. We have three great kids. I am proud of each one of them. They are getting easier to handle as they grow. I know different challenges are around the corner. I have to keep the faith that things will work out the way the are supposed to for all of us. I had more faith before we moved here. I don't know why, but some of it has been lost along the way. This journey in Michigan has been rough. Minnesota was rough too. We experienced many difficult times there, but I didn't lose faith. I had my family right there to help me through. Friends, new and old were there to be with me. It was reassuring and comforting. Knowing my sister was just a short drive away gave me great comfort. Being able to put the kids in the car and head north to my parents house put me at ease. I didn't feel pressure to fit so much in to a short visit. We had all the time in the world to take trips up north. I don't feel I wasn't able to take advantage of that time. We made many trips and saw each other throughout the year. It was just as I pictured it would be. I may have overlooked N and his job. I assumed he would be a success. He is smart and good at everything he does. We worked well together parenting. I never had a doubt about us, being parents, and our life together. I had total faith in us. The last year has left me questioning so many parts of my life. Not that I would ever leave or want to, it's just that something has changed. I feel unsure of so much. Once again, limbo.
So, today I will try my best to change the frustrating parts in my life. I want to pray more and be thankful. Embrace my children and each day I have with them. I want to be happier and satisfied. In order to accomplish these things, I need to change our daily routine. Maybe by starting out the morning with a daily prayer and being sure to get my work out in. I have caved the last two weeks with the work out schedule. I was on a role, but the migraine won, defeating my motivation to work out.
Maybe this is too raw to publish on a blog, but if I don't, I just keep it all inside. The frustration builds and chaos begins. Publishing a blog like this gets my feelings out to those who I don't talk to every day. Gives them a window into our life. Maybe it is a good thing, maybe not. I have so many people I miss terribly and wish I could talk to on a regular basis. I wish I knew more about who was actually paying attention to this and reading it. Perhaps, if you are reading this, you could leave a comment of some sort. Just that you were here. Leave your mark for me to know you understand or follow.
I read the book "Eat, Pray, Love" recently. In one of the sections, she discusses Catholics and Lutherans. I can't find the exact quotes, but basically she discusses the Italian Catholics as being unable to make plans. Who knows if we will be here tomorrow or next week to commit to these plans, its all in Gods hands. She states that if you ask a Lutheran to be at a location on a certain day, they will be there. Signed up and committed. Maybe this was a bad comparison without the exact words from the book. It left me wishing I could be more like the Italians in the story. Less internal stress and free. I still want to commit to things and follow through, but maybe have it not be so much of my focus. Take the days one at a time and see where they lead me. Like today, I didn't have a plan. So far, I have half the house clean and my thoughts poured out on the Internet. We will see where that takes me.
I would like to enjoy more time with the kids and worry less about other things. That is my goal. We will see how the changes go. I better return to my tasks so I can be sure to get the work out in before Three changes her mind on what she is doing. Thanks for listening, but please let me know that you are!
Why to I get so upset so easily? I have sort of lost track in handing it over to God and keep my faith in whatever the situation is. It is so easy to give in to the frustration. I am reading the book "The Shack" and still am not sure what to think of it. Makes you analyze the things you have learned in the church. What would it really be like to meet Jesus, God and the Holy Spirit? I hadn't put that much thought directly into it until I started reading this book. I am about half way through. So far, the beginning was good, but I am a little lost for interest in the middle. He spends time with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. It seems a little repetitive and just filler. We will see where it takes me.
To deal with all this frustration, I am trying to get more organized with many areas in my life. Today it is the house, which is a never ending task. I rearranged the entire living room. Almost everything is in a different place. Went through the kids books, created new areas for them. I started on Saturday and Zinnia came to help me on Sunday after mass. She was most irritated by my blog.
It's hard to feel settled with life when there are so many questions, things up in the air. Will we stay here? When will we leave? Nothing is permanent. I don't think I will feel settled until I know N has a job he likes and we own the house we live in. I feel like we are stuck in limbo, not sure which way to go. How do I get past that and be content where I am right now?
Reformation. Is that the right word? Do I need to change the way I look at everything? Try not to let the evil of frustration take over so easily and give it over to the Lord. Just go with things as they come. I am such a planner, it is hard to not have it all straightened out ahead of time. For some reason, Thanksgiving is on my mind all the time. It seems I have a fear of spending the holiday alone as we did last year. It was so very depressing. Just not sure which direction to turn. Maybe I just need to put it out of my mind and not worry. Sometimes I feel this frustration occurs after I have had a migraine. That experience can be so hard on the entire house. I try my best to power through it, take my meds on time and keep moving. I don't want the pain to take over and crawl under a rock. Many times that is how I feel, but can't for my family. These kids need my. All I want is to give them a great foundation and wonderful memories. I need to embrace motherhood more. Worry less about the schedule and mess. We have three great kids. I am proud of each one of them. They are getting easier to handle as they grow. I know different challenges are around the corner. I have to keep the faith that things will work out the way the are supposed to for all of us. I had more faith before we moved here. I don't know why, but some of it has been lost along the way. This journey in Michigan has been rough. Minnesota was rough too. We experienced many difficult times there, but I didn't lose faith. I had my family right there to help me through. Friends, new and old were there to be with me. It was reassuring and comforting. Knowing my sister was just a short drive away gave me great comfort. Being able to put the kids in the car and head north to my parents house put me at ease. I didn't feel pressure to fit so much in to a short visit. We had all the time in the world to take trips up north. I don't feel I wasn't able to take advantage of that time. We made many trips and saw each other throughout the year. It was just as I pictured it would be. I may have overlooked N and his job. I assumed he would be a success. He is smart and good at everything he does. We worked well together parenting. I never had a doubt about us, being parents, and our life together. I had total faith in us. The last year has left me questioning so many parts of my life. Not that I would ever leave or want to, it's just that something has changed. I feel unsure of so much. Once again, limbo.
So, today I will try my best to change the frustrating parts in my life. I want to pray more and be thankful. Embrace my children and each day I have with them. I want to be happier and satisfied. In order to accomplish these things, I need to change our daily routine. Maybe by starting out the morning with a daily prayer and being sure to get my work out in. I have caved the last two weeks with the work out schedule. I was on a role, but the migraine won, defeating my motivation to work out.
Maybe this is too raw to publish on a blog, but if I don't, I just keep it all inside. The frustration builds and chaos begins. Publishing a blog like this gets my feelings out to those who I don't talk to every day. Gives them a window into our life. Maybe it is a good thing, maybe not. I have so many people I miss terribly and wish I could talk to on a regular basis. I wish I knew more about who was actually paying attention to this and reading it. Perhaps, if you are reading this, you could leave a comment of some sort. Just that you were here. Leave your mark for me to know you understand or follow.
I read the book "Eat, Pray, Love" recently. In one of the sections, she discusses Catholics and Lutherans. I can't find the exact quotes, but basically she discusses the Italian Catholics as being unable to make plans. Who knows if we will be here tomorrow or next week to commit to these plans, its all in Gods hands. She states that if you ask a Lutheran to be at a location on a certain day, they will be there. Signed up and committed. Maybe this was a bad comparison without the exact words from the book. It left me wishing I could be more like the Italians in the story. Less internal stress and free. I still want to commit to things and follow through, but maybe have it not be so much of my focus. Take the days one at a time and see where they lead me. Like today, I didn't have a plan. So far, I have half the house clean and my thoughts poured out on the Internet. We will see where that takes me.
I would like to enjoy more time with the kids and worry less about other things. That is my goal. We will see how the changes go. I better return to my tasks so I can be sure to get the work out in before Three changes her mind on what she is doing. Thanks for listening, but please let me know that you are!
Friday, November 12, 2010
A Crummy Day
We started out alright. I had to sub today. I have been excited to do so and happy to have the extra money. At the end of today, it seems selfish. By doing the sub jobs, I have to count on others to take care of the kids. Not sure it is worth it anymore. N had to work at 1 today. I made arrangements for Zinnia to pick her up and spend from 1 to after school pick up at their house. I know she doesn't mind and I do it for her in return. Today turned out to be different. I talked to N just before noon and everything was fine. I did not have a chance to check my phone after that. Six got hurt during school. He fell of playground equipment. He couldn't remember what or how it happened. He has two bloody sores on his gums and a fat lip. No one was able to get a hold of me on my cell phone. I felt like the worst mom when I met Zinnia at the school with not one, but two of my kids. She is his emergency contact. I guess he was able to see N for awhile before he went to work and then went out to Zinnia's for the afternoon. I wish N would have called me through the schools phone line and told me what happened. I was frustrated with hi m because of that and the way Three was dressed when I picked her up. She was wearing a summer dress and a skirt. It's November! Then when we got home, the house was a mess. Laundry all over upstairs. Noodles on the carpet. UGH! Needless to say, I think my subbing days are over. It is not like its a big money maker. I only get $65 a day. Doesn't seem worth it for all the stress it causes at home and for involving others. Here I was on a role, eager to write a Christmas letter and enjoy our time until Christmas vacation. Now, just all seems down.
As frustrating as I felt today, I still tried to come up with something to eat at home. I had bought some really cheap cheese pizzas. Felt guilty, they are even more cheap than tottinos. When they were done, I cut them to find a clump of black hair under the crust. Whether it was there from the package, or somehow on my pan, I do not know. At that moment, I caved. Packed them up and went to Little Caesars. I don't care if it was our last $8.00. I got them a crazy bread, sauce and a hot and ready pizza. Can't eat any of it myself, too disgusted. Back to disliking Michigan, wishing we were still in Minnesota and dreading Thanksgiving. Won't set tone very well for December.
As frustrating as I felt today, I still tried to come up with something to eat at home. I had bought some really cheap cheese pizzas. Felt guilty, they are even more cheap than tottinos. When they were done, I cut them to find a clump of black hair under the crust. Whether it was there from the package, or somehow on my pan, I do not know. At that moment, I caved. Packed them up and went to Little Caesars. I don't care if it was our last $8.00. I got them a crazy bread, sauce and a hot and ready pizza. Can't eat any of it myself, too disgusted. Back to disliking Michigan, wishing we were still in Minnesota and dreading Thanksgiving. Won't set tone very well for December.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
There will be days like this
Subbing is hard work. Third grade is great, I really enjoyed the kids. They are old enough to sit and do what they are told without repeating too much. I was exhausted by the end of the day. Would have loved to call in sick to RE, but that is not really an option. It was a very full day. N took Three to preschool and picked her up. She then went to play at Zinnia's so N and Mr. D could do some fishing. They came back with some small ones for the pond. The kids were so happy to see them and the fish. It was nice, but I was very tired. I was glad N was able to fish. It is beautiful out today also. He just left to try his luck at it again. Six loves to eat fish. He was disappointed there was not more last night. Hopefully N will get some today. Five seems to be hard up for N's attention. He threw a fit last night and the night before. He gets enough sleep, but is always the first to wake. Thanksgiving break can't come soon enough.
I finally got back on my elliptical today. It felt great. Last week was rough. I had a migraine yesterday, that didn't help.
Thanksgiving has been on my mind. A holiday I used to love, now is just depressing. It wasn't even this depressing when we lived in TX, but here is different. There is just no way around it. N works and we stay home. Sure do miss those days at my Aunt and Uncles when the kids had to go down the hall and eat on the floor. Never figured it out until now, wish I had a hall to send my kids too. I have happy memories of it. It wasn't a sentence. We had our own little area for our conversations. I can see why the adults did it and probably liked it. They had a peaceful meal too. I always think of stuff like that during the holidays. I am thankful we will be able to leave early this year for Christmas. Should be a nice long visit. I am sure it will go by fast, it always does. Just looking forward to spending time with family and friends.
I finally got back on my elliptical today. It felt great. Last week was rough. I had a migraine yesterday, that didn't help.
Thanksgiving has been on my mind. A holiday I used to love, now is just depressing. It wasn't even this depressing when we lived in TX, but here is different. There is just no way around it. N works and we stay home. Sure do miss those days at my Aunt and Uncles when the kids had to go down the hall and eat on the floor. Never figured it out until now, wish I had a hall to send my kids too. I have happy memories of it. It wasn't a sentence. We had our own little area for our conversations. I can see why the adults did it and probably liked it. They had a peaceful meal too. I always think of stuff like that during the holidays. I am thankful we will be able to leave early this year for Christmas. Should be a nice long visit. I am sure it will go by fast, it always does. Just looking forward to spending time with family and friends.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Kindergarten Bake Sale
We brought cut out cookie airplanes. Predictable, yet disappeared right away. Wasn't sure how to frost them, with some creativity, they were approved by all.
It was a busy morning.
Two subbing jobs set for next week! Third grade first, then fourth on Friday. Very exciting.
We made tortilla soup today. First time this season. It was great. Everyone loved it as usual. Sure do miss those Texas nights sharing tortilla soup with the neighbors.
Friends came for pizza and soup. It was fun.
As boring as this is, I am so tired. Even after a cup of coffee around 7, I am kaput.
Getting excited about the German time with Mr. L. Talked with Mr. T today too. He is excited to teach Six's class German as well. Have to get a schedule set up and figure it out.
Lots to do in the next two months!
It was a busy morning.
Two subbing jobs set for next week! Third grade first, then fourth on Friday. Very exciting.
We made tortilla soup today. First time this season. It was great. Everyone loved it as usual. Sure do miss those Texas nights sharing tortilla soup with the neighbors.
Friends came for pizza and soup. It was fun.
As boring as this is, I am so tired. Even after a cup of coffee around 7, I am kaput.
Getting excited about the German time with Mr. L. Talked with Mr. T today too. He is excited to teach Six's class German as well. Have to get a schedule set up and figure it out.
Lots to do in the next two months!
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Kindergarten
Spent the morning with Five's class. Mr. L is going to let me do lessons on German Christmas with the kids. He is just as excited as I am! Should be fun. Now to dig out my lesson plans and find my books! Sure do miss being able to speak German on a regular basis. Maybe I can have some lessons done with Six's class too.
Yesterday while hanging out with Third Grade, I noticed a change in them. When the office would call for an early dismissal, their faces were hilarious. At first the person whose name was called would act shocked and surprised. Their face quickly changed to proud as they gathered their belongings. It was followed by envy from the other students. You'd think they won a golden ticket! Everyone was green with jealousy that they were not called. It was comical, just had to share.
Yesterday while hanging out with Third Grade, I noticed a change in them. When the office would call for an early dismissal, their faces were hilarious. At first the person whose name was called would act shocked and surprised. Their face quickly changed to proud as they gathered their belongings. It was followed by envy from the other students. You'd think they won a golden ticket! Everyone was green with jealousy that they were not called. It was comical, just had to share.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Update
Well, we made it through Halloween. It was fun, but I hate to admit, not my favorite holiday. The parties at the school were wild, but a good time. I was able to go thanks to Mr. D who watched Three that afternoon. Did I mention that already? I can't even remember. It's been so long since I blogged. Halloween was good, but we got off on the wrong foot. We weren't ready when our friends were. We rushed out the door to catch up and didn't get good pictures. Oh well. I may have them get dressed one more time and stand in front of the house for fun. We carved our pumpkins that night due to N being at work. Just took longer than I thought. It was cool outside, I wasn't prepared with Three. At the last minute, she changed her mind about her costume. She went as Nemo, which was better because it was warmer. I forgot mittens for her though and had to run home for some. They had fun. Half way through, Five decided the heck with his headpiece. I was thankful because then he put on a hat to cover his ears. He looked like a Shepard boy or something. I know the only reason he was ok without the headpiece was because without he thinks he is Ben Kenobi. When he lost his belt, Zinnia said he looked like a waffle with a strawberry on top. He really did, but didn't appreciate the comment. You know his sensitive ego. I think they had just as much fun handing out candy as they did getting it. After the parties at school, Six said he wanted to save some of his candy to give to the kids that would come to our house. He is so sweet.
That was our weekend. Thankfully, they did not have school on Monday. We needed a day off to recover. We stayed home all day. It was nice. Today was a whirlwind though!
My first subbing job was today. It was only a half day with third grade. Three had preschool and we needed to vote. Once we were childless, we voted and hit the grocery store. N made some stew in the crock pot. We did not have RE tonight so I planned to go to the PTO meeting. I can never go because of teaching RE. Wouldn't you know, the day I go to sub, they call N into work for overtime. He was able to pick Three up from school, but had to go to work shortly after. Zinnia to the rescue! She picked her up and kept her until pick up after school . So glad she isn't working on Tuesdays anymore! We made it to PTO, excited for an hour without children. (They have free babysitting!) Or so we thought, the teenagers never showed up and I watched the kids while the meeting was going on. They were all perfect. They sat and colored during the meeting. I still had to run some to the bathroom and didn't get in on most of the meeting but oh well. It was nice. The principal made a comment about be being there ALL DAY. They have asked me back for next Friday. 4th grade this time, we will see how that goes. The third graders were nice. I enjoyed them. They know how to keep you on task. It was good to get back into the school again. Left me excited to do it again. Tomorrow I help in Five's classroom. Should be a busy day.
That was our weekend. Thankfully, they did not have school on Monday. We needed a day off to recover. We stayed home all day. It was nice. Today was a whirlwind though!
My first subbing job was today. It was only a half day with third grade. Three had preschool and we needed to vote. Once we were childless, we voted and hit the grocery store. N made some stew in the crock pot. We did not have RE tonight so I planned to go to the PTO meeting. I can never go because of teaching RE. Wouldn't you know, the day I go to sub, they call N into work for overtime. He was able to pick Three up from school, but had to go to work shortly after. Zinnia to the rescue! She picked her up and kept her until pick up after school . So glad she isn't working on Tuesdays anymore! We made it to PTO, excited for an hour without children. (They have free babysitting!) Or so we thought, the teenagers never showed up and I watched the kids while the meeting was going on. They were all perfect. They sat and colored during the meeting. I still had to run some to the bathroom and didn't get in on most of the meeting but oh well. It was nice. The principal made a comment about be being there ALL DAY. They have asked me back for next Friday. 4th grade this time, we will see how that goes. The third graders were nice. I enjoyed them. They know how to keep you on task. It was good to get back into the school again. Left me excited to do it again. Tomorrow I help in Five's classroom. Should be a busy day.
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