Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Carlye's Birthday Day
I've been trying to download video for the last 24 hours and I can't get it to work, so here are the pictures:
Carlye's very first birthday present was snow!
Breakfast time! Since we do not have a kitchen we were unable to make our traditional birthday muffins (we always have muffins and put in candles and sing Happy Birthday at breakfast when it's someones birthday), so we went out to eat. Carlye picked a local diner, and enjoyed a cheese omelet, grits and apple juice.
Afterwards we headed to SA to go ice skating. For those of you who know my family, it will go without saying that what came next was two hours of complete and total hilarity on the part of Carl and I. You see, our children - okay, our entire family - is challenged in the area of balance. Add ice skates, and Carl and I laughed so hard we almost hurt ourselves. One of these days you will have the privilege of seeing these snippets of joy for yourself. Until then, just know that Noah couldn't make it more than a foot or two without falling - and trying to eat the ice off of his hands. When Carlye fell, it was with all of the drama of her being, including giant spins with flailing arms. Nathanael, however, was by the far the scariest. He was determined to learn to skate, and forced himself out there with arms flailing and skates spinning and thrashing. While he fell very rarely, many others fell victim to his 'technique.'
Picture with Mommy at the ice skating rink:
Picture with Daddy at the ice skating rink:
Warming up with Apple Cider and Hot Chocolate at Barnes and Noble after we left the ice skating rink. Carlye's clothes were so wet we had to actually stop and buy her some new clothes!:
Carlye's Birthday Dinner at Red Lobster - snow crab and a baked potato!:
Carlye's very first birthday present was snow!
Breakfast time! Since we do not have a kitchen we were unable to make our traditional birthday muffins (we always have muffins and put in candles and sing Happy Birthday at breakfast when it's someones birthday), so we went out to eat. Carlye picked a local diner, and enjoyed a cheese omelet, grits and apple juice.
Afterwards we headed to SA to go ice skating. For those of you who know my family, it will go without saying that what came next was two hours of complete and total hilarity on the part of Carl and I. You see, our children - okay, our entire family - is challenged in the area of balance. Add ice skates, and Carl and I laughed so hard we almost hurt ourselves. One of these days you will have the privilege of seeing these snippets of joy for yourself. Until then, just know that Noah couldn't make it more than a foot or two without falling - and trying to eat the ice off of his hands. When Carlye fell, it was with all of the drama of her being, including giant spins with flailing arms. Nathanael, however, was by the far the scariest. He was determined to learn to skate, and forced himself out there with arms flailing and skates spinning and thrashing. While he fell very rarely, many others fell victim to his 'technique.'
Picture with Mommy at the ice skating rink:
Picture with Daddy at the ice skating rink:
Warming up with Apple Cider and Hot Chocolate at Barnes and Noble after we left the ice skating rink. Carlye's clothes were so wet we had to actually stop and buy her some new clothes!:
Carlye's Birthday Dinner at Red Lobster - snow crab and a baked potato!:
Monday, December 28, 2009
Happy Birthday, Carlye!
Today my angel is nine years old, and we have many adventures planned. For now, however, I found this beautiful poem to share with her:
The Mother Moon
by Louisa May Alcott
The moon upon the wide sea
Placidly looks down,
Smiling with her mild face,
Though the ocean frown.
Clouds may dim her brightness,
But soon they pass away,
And she shines out, unaltered,
O'er the little waves at play.
So 'mid the storm or sunshine,
Wherever she may go,
Led on by her hidden power
The wild see must plow.
As the tranquil evening moon
Looks on that restless sea,
So a mother's gentle face,
Little child, is watching thee.
Then banish every tempest,
Chase all your clouds away,
That smoothly and brightly
Your quiet heart may play.
Let cheerful looks and actions
Like shining ripples flow,
Following the mother's voice,
Singing as they go.
The Mother Moon
by Louisa May Alcott
The moon upon the wide sea
Placidly looks down,
Smiling with her mild face,
Though the ocean frown.
Clouds may dim her brightness,
But soon they pass away,
And she shines out, unaltered,
O'er the little waves at play.
So 'mid the storm or sunshine,
Wherever she may go,
Led on by her hidden power
The wild see must plow.
As the tranquil evening moon
Looks on that restless sea,
So a mother's gentle face,
Little child, is watching thee.
Then banish every tempest,
Chase all your clouds away,
That smoothly and brightly
Your quiet heart may play.
Let cheerful looks and actions
Like shining ripples flow,
Following the mother's voice,
Singing as they go.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Song
Song
C.S. Lewis
Faeries must be in the woods
Or the satyrs' laughing broods -
Tritons in the summer sea,
Else how could the dead things be
Half so lovely as they are?
How could wealth of star on star
Dusted o'er the frosty night
Fill thy spirit with delight
And lead thee from this care of thin
Up among the dreams divine,
Were it not that each and all
Of them that walk the heavenly hall
Is in truth a happy isle,
Where eternal meadows smile,
And golden globes of fruit are seen
Twinkling through the orchards green;
Were the Other People go
On the bright sward to and fro?
Atoms dead could never thus
Stir the human heart of us
Unless the beauty that we see
The veil of endless beauty be,
Filled full of spirits that have trod
Far hence along the heavenly sod
And see the bright footprints of God.
C.S. Lewis
Faeries must be in the woods
Or the satyrs' laughing broods -
Tritons in the summer sea,
Else how could the dead things be
Half so lovely as they are?
How could wealth of star on star
Dusted o'er the frosty night
Fill thy spirit with delight
And lead thee from this care of thin
Up among the dreams divine,
Were it not that each and all
Of them that walk the heavenly hall
Is in truth a happy isle,
Where eternal meadows smile,
And golden globes of fruit are seen
Twinkling through the orchards green;
Were the Other People go
On the bright sward to and fro?
Atoms dead could never thus
Stir the human heart of us
Unless the beauty that we see
The veil of endless beauty be,
Filled full of spirits that have trod
Far hence along the heavenly sod
And see the bright footprints of God.
Christmas Eve Pictures
I always have mixed feelings when Christmas is over. Part of me - a very BIG part of me - wants to put everything away immediately and move onto my daughters birthday party and the beginning of the year. The other part of me wants to hold on for a while, because I know that I will never have another Christmas like this one. So, while I struggle with my conundrum I thought that I would spend the next few days sharing a few of our Christmas pictures with you.
Eating yummy Aebelskivers:
Setting out cookies for Santa:
Christmas Cuddles:
Family Picture:
Eating yummy Aebelskivers:
Setting out cookies for Santa:
Christmas Cuddles:
Family Picture:
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Heather is Awesome!
My little sister, Heather, designed me this absolutely and beautifully awesome blog background. Isn't it the best?!?! Thank you, sister, I LOVE IT!
Don't forget to check out my other blog of the day, right below this one.
Don't forget to check out my other blog of the day, right below this one.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Public Service Announcement
If you live in the area, please consider this a warning. Should you choose to be in the vicinity when one of my children is operating a 2 wheeled vehicle, I am not to be held responsible.
PS - Our kids were given bikes for Christmas. Aren't helmets great inventions? Now we just need to invest in some special gloves to avoid the whole skinned hand thing. Oh, and pray that they avoid any cactus that they see - right Heather?
PS - Our kids were given bikes for Christmas. Aren't helmets great inventions? Now we just need to invest in some special gloves to avoid the whole skinned hand thing. Oh, and pray that they avoid any cactus that they see - right Heather?
Merry Christmas!
It's early here, and my house is still asleep. I am up and hoping that others wake up soon. But meanwhile, what a wonderful time to sit and think of the real meaning of Christmas, and how thankful I am that my Savior came as a baby to show me the way back to the Father. This year is truly a blessed and amazing Christmas, and my prayer is that yours will be as well. May the love of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, be yours this season, and may you know true joy and peace. All my love....
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Merry Christmas Eve!
I am sitting here right now gazing at my beautiful Christmas tree, and feeling all of the joy and bubbly that you get at Christmas time. I am thinking of my many blessings, and so thankful for such abundant friends and family to spend Christmas and Christmas Eve with. I have 3 sisters, 3 sister-in-laws, 6 brother-in-laws, 9 nieces and nephews, 3 children, 2 moms and 2 dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, and an amazing husband. And we are ALL close. And we ALL love each other. And I am SO thankful for all of them.
On Christmas Eve we have some special traditions that we do every year. Here are some of the fun ones:
* We eat Aebelskivers. We used to do this on Christmas morning, but we've run out of time because my kids - who never sleep late - ALWAYS SLEEP LATE ON CHRISTMAS MORNING (very frustrating to me, who wants them to wake up at like 5), and we have to be at Carl's mom's around 9, so it works better to do it on Christmas Eve
* We can only watch Christmas movies or TV shows - if there's no Christmas in it, we can't watch it (we did this when I was little!)
* We bake (usually) a Happy Birthday Jesus cake. This year we'll use mom's pear cake 'cause I don't have an oven (I do have a beautiful kitchen, though!)
* We get together with Carl's dad (usually at our house, but again remodel, so not here this year)
* We read and do What God Wants For Christmas (very cool - I highly recommend it)
* All of the grandchildren get to open 1 gift (it's always pajamas, and the girls match the girls and the boys match the boys, and they all match each other!)
* We read the Christmas story and sing all of the Christmas songs that go with it. Carl's mom has done this with him and his sisters since they were tiny, and we still read the very same book, with all of us gathered together around her fire, husbands and wives and children.
* We light the last Advent candle
* We set out cookies and milk for Santa on a totally awesome plate and mug set that "Dear Santa we hope you will join us and say, Happy Birthday to Jesus on this Christmas Day!"
* The kids roll into bed super late because they are completely wound up and have had way to many cookies
* Carl and I fall asleep exhausted and then I wake up at 3:00 in the morning, and every 20 to 30 minutes thereafter because I am so excited about seeing my children's faces on Christmas morning and Carl yells at me to please quit moving and go to sleep because the morning will come soon enough and then I'll be tired and grumpy so I need to sleep
And that, my friends, is how we spend Christmas Eve,
On Christmas Eve we have some special traditions that we do every year. Here are some of the fun ones:
* We eat Aebelskivers. We used to do this on Christmas morning, but we've run out of time because my kids - who never sleep late - ALWAYS SLEEP LATE ON CHRISTMAS MORNING (very frustrating to me, who wants them to wake up at like 5), and we have to be at Carl's mom's around 9, so it works better to do it on Christmas Eve
* We can only watch Christmas movies or TV shows - if there's no Christmas in it, we can't watch it (we did this when I was little!)
* We bake (usually) a Happy Birthday Jesus cake. This year we'll use mom's pear cake 'cause I don't have an oven (I do have a beautiful kitchen, though!)
* We get together with Carl's dad (usually at our house, but again remodel, so not here this year)
* We read and do What God Wants For Christmas (very cool - I highly recommend it)
* All of the grandchildren get to open 1 gift (it's always pajamas, and the girls match the girls and the boys match the boys, and they all match each other!)
* We read the Christmas story and sing all of the Christmas songs that go with it. Carl's mom has done this with him and his sisters since they were tiny, and we still read the very same book, with all of us gathered together around her fire, husbands and wives and children.
* We light the last Advent candle
* We set out cookies and milk for Santa on a totally awesome plate and mug set that "Dear Santa we hope you will join us and say, Happy Birthday to Jesus on this Christmas Day!"
* The kids roll into bed super late because they are completely wound up and have had way to many cookies
* Carl and I fall asleep exhausted and then I wake up at 3:00 in the morning, and every 20 to 30 minutes thereafter because I am so excited about seeing my children's faces on Christmas morning and Carl yells at me to please quit moving and go to sleep because the morning will come soon enough and then I'll be tired and grumpy so I need to sleep
And that, my friends, is how we spend Christmas Eve,
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
On the Twelfth Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
A tile backsplash
On TopOfMyGraniteOnMyCabinetsOfHickory.
Ahh, Christmas. The most wonderful time of year. A time for children to get so hopped up on sugar cookies, wassail and adrenaline that they forget all about the sweet, kind, angelic children that they were before the holidays.
At this present moment I am sitting on my couch praying that my head does NOT blow up, while listening to all three of my children and two of their cousins screaming their heads off from one of the bedrooms. There is even screaming and crying. Oh, well, survival of the fittest is what I always say. I just hope that the air mattress that is in that room survives, we need that long term, you know.
I've been thinking about some of my favorite Christmas memories, and decided to share some of them with you. Aren't you glad? In no particular order:
* I remember when all of us girls and our cousins were given our homemade Cabbage Patch Dolls (I still have mine). We loved them! Aunt Marianne taught us how to make slings out of dishtowels and we ran all around Grandma and Popi's house with our babies tied to us.
* Aebelskivers every Christmas. My favorite memory is when Grandma and Popi were still in San Antonio and Grandma, Mom and Aunt Marianne were in the kitchen making aebelskivers, Daddy, Popi and Uncle Frank were in the formal living room talking, and all of us were playing with our toys and running around the house like crazy people.
* I remember riding in the back of the station wagon on the way to Grandma's house, with as many Christmas toys as we could grab stuffed in with us
* I remember waking up really excited and climbing into bed with Heidi.
* I remember taking turns sneaking down the hallway to see what was in our stockings.
* I remember the year we each were given My Child dolls
* I remember being big pregnant with Carlye and wishing she were already here (she came 4 days later)
* I remember her first Christmas when EVERYONE spoiled her rotten
* I remember Noah's first Christmas and Nathanael's black eye
* I remember Advent at our house, with all of our friends and family that lived close by coming over
* I remember pizelles
Somebody just got hurt - whacked in the head with a Tennis Racket to be precise. That's what happens when you play with tennis rackets inside, I guess. I am now going to curl up on the couch and read and hope that I feel better soon.
A tile backsplash
On TopOfMyGraniteOnMyCabinetsOfHickory.
Ahh, Christmas. The most wonderful time of year. A time for children to get so hopped up on sugar cookies, wassail and adrenaline that they forget all about the sweet, kind, angelic children that they were before the holidays.
At this present moment I am sitting on my couch praying that my head does NOT blow up, while listening to all three of my children and two of their cousins screaming their heads off from one of the bedrooms. There is even screaming and crying. Oh, well, survival of the fittest is what I always say. I just hope that the air mattress that is in that room survives, we need that long term, you know.
I've been thinking about some of my favorite Christmas memories, and decided to share some of them with you. Aren't you glad? In no particular order:
* I remember when all of us girls and our cousins were given our homemade Cabbage Patch Dolls (I still have mine). We loved them! Aunt Marianne taught us how to make slings out of dishtowels and we ran all around Grandma and Popi's house with our babies tied to us.
* Aebelskivers every Christmas. My favorite memory is when Grandma and Popi were still in San Antonio and Grandma, Mom and Aunt Marianne were in the kitchen making aebelskivers, Daddy, Popi and Uncle Frank were in the formal living room talking, and all of us were playing with our toys and running around the house like crazy people.
* I remember riding in the back of the station wagon on the way to Grandma's house, with as many Christmas toys as we could grab stuffed in with us
* I remember waking up really excited and climbing into bed with Heidi.
* I remember taking turns sneaking down the hallway to see what was in our stockings.
* I remember the year we each were given My Child dolls
* I remember being big pregnant with Carlye and wishing she were already here (she came 4 days later)
* I remember her first Christmas when EVERYONE spoiled her rotten
* I remember Noah's first Christmas and Nathanael's black eye
* I remember Advent at our house, with all of our friends and family that lived close by coming over
* I remember pizelles
Somebody just got hurt - whacked in the head with a Tennis Racket to be precise. That's what happens when you play with tennis rackets inside, I guess. I am now going to curl up on the couch and read and hope that I feel better soon.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
On the Eleventh Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
Granite on my
Cabinets of Hickory.
I am sick today. So is mom. It is not fun. I have so much to write about, and I just am too tired right now. Hopefully tomorrow.
Granite on my
Cabinets of Hickory.
I am sick today. So is mom. It is not fun. I have so much to write about, and I just am too tired right now. Hopefully tomorrow.
Monday, December 21, 2009
On the Tenth Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
A front porch
Made of old trees.
Okay - it's just lumber, but that doesn't rhyme, now does it?
Meanwhile, my children have lost their minds. They have COMPLETELY forgotten how to behave themselves, and are acting like wild and crazy hooligans.
Yes, hooligans.
They are fighting and screaming and tattling and hitting and pinching (for the first time ever) and spitting (which is disgusting) and overall making incredibly bad choices.
So, tomorrow, we are staying home ALL day and having Christmas boot camp.
Only, it won't be very Christmassy cause it won't be very fun.
Well, it may be a little fun for me.
Them, not so much.
Oh, and her is one of my favorite pictures from the wedding:
A front porch
Made of old trees.
Okay - it's just lumber, but that doesn't rhyme, now does it?
Meanwhile, my children have lost their minds. They have COMPLETELY forgotten how to behave themselves, and are acting like wild and crazy hooligans.
Yes, hooligans.
They are fighting and screaming and tattling and hitting and pinching (for the first time ever) and spitting (which is disgusting) and overall making incredibly bad choices.
So, tomorrow, we are staying home ALL day and having Christmas boot camp.
Only, it won't be very Christmassy cause it won't be very fun.
Well, it may be a little fun for me.
Them, not so much.
Oh, and her is one of my favorite pictures from the wedding:
Sunday, December 20, 2009
On the Ninth Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
An evening with
Extended family.
Today Aunt Marianne, Uncle Frank, Annemarie and Christina are coming to spend the night with us! It will be such a fun evening! Here are the pictures of Julianna's wedding. Look at how beautiful her dress was! Aunt Marianne made it with lace taken from old wedding dresses purchased at the DI. Julianna was one of the most beautiful brides I've ever seen, as Sara was before her. Annie did all of the flowers, and they were breathtakingly beautiful. I hope that the pictures do them justice. Enjoy!
An evening with
Extended family.
Today Aunt Marianne, Uncle Frank, Annemarie and Christina are coming to spend the night with us! It will be such a fun evening! Here are the pictures of Julianna's wedding. Look at how beautiful her dress was! Aunt Marianne made it with lace taken from old wedding dresses purchased at the DI. Julianna was one of the most beautiful brides I've ever seen, as Sara was before her. Annie did all of the flowers, and they were breathtakingly beautiful. I hope that the pictures do them justice. Enjoy!
Saturday, December 19, 2009
On the 8th Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
A trip to my
Cousins Wedding.
My cousin Julianna was married today, and it was beautiful! She's asked me to post pictures, so I'll put those up tomorrow afternoon (I'm so tired right now!). Noah doesn't really like Jared (her now husband), and asked me more than once why you can't marry your cousin. I was so excited to see so many friends and family, so it was really neat for me. Carl tolerated it well, and so did the kids. Now, we are home and ready to CRASH! Aunt Marianne made Julianna's dress and it was AMAZING! Really, you won't believe it when you see the pictures. It was beautiful. More tomorrow........
A trip to my
Cousins Wedding.
My cousin Julianna was married today, and it was beautiful! She's asked me to post pictures, so I'll put those up tomorrow afternoon (I'm so tired right now!). Noah doesn't really like Jared (her now husband), and asked me more than once why you can't marry your cousin. I was so excited to see so many friends and family, so it was really neat for me. Carl tolerated it well, and so did the kids. Now, we are home and ready to CRASH! Aunt Marianne made Julianna's dress and it was AMAZING! Really, you won't believe it when you see the pictures. It was beautiful. More tomorrow........
Friday, December 18, 2009
On the 7th day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
A night at home
With no activity!
Christmas parties are over, and they were both a smashing success. Thankfully, I was only 'in charge' of one, and it was a lot of fun. The one I wasn't 'in charge' of was a lot more fun, as I got to sit and eat cookies while the other mom who was 'in charge' struggled to prevent another mom from taking over. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Now, I can sit at home, watch Christmas movies and completely destress. I am so excited. Seriously. I have NOTHING to do tonight. My mom even made dinner!
And on that note, living without a stove isn't as difficult as I thought that it would be. I have happily discovered that there are quite a few crock pot and microwave foods out there for the kitchen deprived family.
Hot pocket anyone?
A night at home
With no activity!
Christmas parties are over, and they were both a smashing success. Thankfully, I was only 'in charge' of one, and it was a lot of fun. The one I wasn't 'in charge' of was a lot more fun, as I got to sit and eat cookies while the other mom who was 'in charge' struggled to prevent another mom from taking over. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Now, I can sit at home, watch Christmas movies and completely destress. I am so excited. Seriously. I have NOTHING to do tonight. My mom even made dinner!
And on that note, living without a stove isn't as difficult as I thought that it would be. I have happily discovered that there are quite a few crock pot and microwave foods out there for the kitchen deprived family.
Hot pocket anyone?
Thursday, December 17, 2009
On the Sixth Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
Rockbox tickets
For the family.
Woo-hoo! We're going to the Rockbox again tonight, but this time we get to take the kids and my parents. It should be a lot of fun.
Today we received a fun Christmas package from my little sister, with our very own Elf to sit on our shelf. His name is Zappy Buddy, and he is currently residing very happily on our TV. Sadly, as my children have been incredibly naughty today he will not have good things to report, but hey - he sure is cute!
Rockbox tickets
For the family.
Woo-hoo! We're going to the Rockbox again tonight, but this time we get to take the kids and my parents. It should be a lot of fun.
Today we received a fun Christmas package from my little sister, with our very own Elf to sit on our shelf. His name is Zappy Buddy, and he is currently residing very happily on our TV. Sadly, as my children have been incredibly naughty today he will not have good things to report, but hey - he sure is cute!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
On the Fifth Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
An airplane carrying my family.
Okay, so he didn't give me the airplane, but my mom and dad are here. So the next few days will be a lot of fun. The boys also both had their hair cut today, and look absolutely adorable. Noey's is still kinda long (like Troy Bolton, of course) and Nathanael is practically bald. Two more days of school and one school party to be in charge of, and VACATION!!! I can't wait.
An airplane carrying my family.
Okay, so he didn't give me the airplane, but my mom and dad are here. So the next few days will be a lot of fun. The boys also both had their hair cut today, and look absolutely adorable. Noey's is still kinda long (like Troy Bolton, of course) and Nathanael is practically bald. Two more days of school and one school party to be in charge of, and VACATION!!! I can't wait.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
On the Fourth Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
An oak floor
That is so pretty.
Today Noah had a pajama party (mom, do I have to wear underwear today since it's pajama day?) and book exchange at school, and that kid is so confident he could totally rock his Star Wars Pajamas and UT slippers in public. He didn't care one bit when I took him into the store and to get his hair cut. Sadly, when we arrived at the hair salon our normal 'stylist' was gone, so we have to wait until tomorrow morning to get Noah's hair cut. Have I mentioned before that he doesn't like getting his hair cut? As a matter of fact, when he found out that he wasn't getting one today he walked out of the salon, fell on his knees on the sidewalk right in front of the door, and immediately began to pray, thanking his Heavenly Father for making the 'hair cut girl' not be there.
Have I also mentioned that he's not shy?
In other news, my best friend and I have decided to trade my oldest for her youngest.
Straight up - no refunds or returns.
I'll let you know how it goes.
An oak floor
That is so pretty.
Today Noah had a pajama party (mom, do I have to wear underwear today since it's pajama day?) and book exchange at school, and that kid is so confident he could totally rock his Star Wars Pajamas and UT slippers in public. He didn't care one bit when I took him into the store and to get his hair cut. Sadly, when we arrived at the hair salon our normal 'stylist' was gone, so we have to wait until tomorrow morning to get Noah's hair cut. Have I mentioned before that he doesn't like getting his hair cut? As a matter of fact, when he found out that he wasn't getting one today he walked out of the salon, fell on his knees on the sidewalk right in front of the door, and immediately began to pray, thanking his Heavenly Father for making the 'hair cut girl' not be there.
Have I also mentioned that he's not shy?
In other news, my best friend and I have decided to trade my oldest for her youngest.
Straight up - no refunds or returns.
I'll let you know how it goes.
Monday, December 14, 2009
On the Third Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
Cabinets made of
Hickory.
I've been thinking, and I have decided that the people who invented childrens soaps, bubble bath, sponges and shower gel for Christmas gifts do not actually have children. You see, my youngest was the lucky winner of a Bakugan bath set at a white elephant gift exchange. Now, I don't know much about the show, but I do know that 2 sponges, 2 bottles of shower gel and 2 bottles of bubble bath - while mixed with 3 children - can desecrate a bathroom more quickly than a gang of vandals. Slippery soap, sticky bubbles, and a lot of water do not for a happy mommy make. The plus side is that there is now very little of said bath set left, so only a minimal amount of damage can be done in the future.
I am thankful for Delsym, kitchens, loving husbands, massages and Christmas movies.
Cabinets made of
Hickory.
I've been thinking, and I have decided that the people who invented childrens soaps, bubble bath, sponges and shower gel for Christmas gifts do not actually have children. You see, my youngest was the lucky winner of a Bakugan bath set at a white elephant gift exchange. Now, I don't know much about the show, but I do know that 2 sponges, 2 bottles of shower gel and 2 bottles of bubble bath - while mixed with 3 children - can desecrate a bathroom more quickly than a gang of vandals. Slippery soap, sticky bubbles, and a lot of water do not for a happy mommy make. The plus side is that there is now very little of said bath set left, so only a minimal amount of damage can be done in the future.
I am thankful for Delsym, kitchens, loving husbands, massages and Christmas movies.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
On the Second Day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
A giant tray of
Christmas Cookies!
Today all the grandkids are going to be decorating Christmas cookies at Nani's. It's a fun Christmas tradition, and they always have so much fun! I'll post pictures when I get them.
A giant tray of
Christmas Cookies!
Today all the grandkids are going to be decorating Christmas cookies at Nani's. It's a fun Christmas tradition, and they always have so much fun! I'll post pictures when I get them.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
On the First Day of Christmas.....
My true love gave to me,
A can of paint
That's really heavy.
Today, on day #4 or 5 of our remodel (they are all running together in one giant blur) we are painting the kitchen. A really boring color, but that's okay. It'll mostly be hidden behind the cabinets and backsplash anyway. While we paint, the kids are going to watch Christmas shows and movies (Freckles is sick), so at least I get to listen to fun stuff while paint. I am learning some very valuable things, though, during this remodel.
1) Washing dishes in the bathroom sink can be difficult, and will more than likely involve you getting wet. Very wet.
2) Cooking without a stove doesn't work so well. And driving your food back and forth from your mother-in-laws house to yours isn't the easiest solution.
3) I have no guilt whatsoever that we are eating out EVERY SINGLE MEAL because of our lack of stove/sink/counter space. Seriously, no guilt.
4) Paper plates, plastic forks and styrofoam cups were invented by a mom who was remodeling her kitchen and had 3 young children. I'm sure of it.
In a completely unrelated topic, Noah asked me to buy him a Santa hat from Victoria's Secret the other day. I went with no.
Oh, and at a recent White Elephant Gift Exchange I came away with the COOLEST shirt ever.
I know - you're jealous! Wait til you see it on me - I can totally rock it!
A can of paint
That's really heavy.
Today, on day #4 or 5 of our remodel (they are all running together in one giant blur) we are painting the kitchen. A really boring color, but that's okay. It'll mostly be hidden behind the cabinets and backsplash anyway. While we paint, the kids are going to watch Christmas shows and movies (Freckles is sick), so at least I get to listen to fun stuff while paint. I am learning some very valuable things, though, during this remodel.
1) Washing dishes in the bathroom sink can be difficult, and will more than likely involve you getting wet. Very wet.
2) Cooking without a stove doesn't work so well. And driving your food back and forth from your mother-in-laws house to yours isn't the easiest solution.
3) I have no guilt whatsoever that we are eating out EVERY SINGLE MEAL because of our lack of stove/sink/counter space. Seriously, no guilt.
4) Paper plates, plastic forks and styrofoam cups were invented by a mom who was remodeling her kitchen and had 3 young children. I'm sure of it.
In a completely unrelated topic, Noah asked me to buy him a Santa hat from Victoria's Secret the other day. I went with no.
Oh, and at a recent White Elephant Gift Exchange I came away with the COOLEST shirt ever.
I know - you're jealous! Wait til you see it on me - I can totally rock it!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Really?
My day yesterday was fraught with adventure. Yes, I said fraught. It started out with me running out of gas while on my way to drop off the kids at school. It took several good samaritans and my daughter manning the brake for us to get to a pump, but we finally did it (and hey, all those people did a good deed for the day, so they felt better about themselves!). A few hours later I was pulled over by a really rude DPS officer because my registration had expired (third time to be pulled over for this, by the way). After he yelled at me and lectured me I drove straight over with my hubby and took care of my registration (and my ticket).
But here's what I wanna know -
Really, it costs $500 just to fix my gas gauge, Really? I could test it myself for that much money! Really.
Really, Mr. DPS officer, you're going to tell me that you'll pull me over and ticket me every time you see me - even if it's in 20 minutes? Really?
And you think that allowing your registration to expire is a case of extreme negligence on my part, Really?
Well, the day is over. It ended with the Rockbox, and it made the whole day all better. Really.
But here's what I wanna know -
Really, it costs $500 just to fix my gas gauge, Really? I could test it myself for that much money! Really.
Really, Mr. DPS officer, you're going to tell me that you'll pull me over and ticket me every time you see me - even if it's in 20 minutes? Really?
And you think that allowing your registration to expire is a case of extreme negligence on my part, Really?
Well, the day is over. It ended with the Rockbox, and it made the whole day all better. Really.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Rockbox Theatre
Tonight Carl and I took his mom and a friend of ours to the Rockbox Theatre here in the area, and it was AWESOME! They are doing their Christmas performance right now, and I loved it (Carl thought it was too Christmassy, but still enjoyed it). They sang "Merry Christmas, Darling" by the Carpenters, Sonny and Cher made an appearance, and the pianist played Christmas Time Is Here. There were some classics, too. But the BEST part was the Doehemian Rhapsody, based on the Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen. I posted it here for all to enjoy, there is some advertising, but overall you get the point of how talented this group is. I can't wait to take my parents and the kids next week! Enjoy!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Invisibility
I don't have depression - I actually love my life. But occasionally I feel invisible. Lost in all of the things that are going on and being done. I know I'm not. I'm loved by many people. But feelings don't have brains, and so therefore cannot be reasoned with. They are what they are - we choose to indulge in them or move on. But, unquestionably, they are there.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Ha-ha! and Boo-hoo!
I am done. Today, I officially completed all of my Christmas shopping.
Unless I forgot something.
You may all applaud.
Thank you.
Remodel Day #1 - My house is naked. I no longer have any porches or rock work on my house, and you can see the beautiful shade of baby blue that we painted our house originally (it was only that way for about a week). It makes me thankful for where we are, and sad that we are going to sell this house when it is finished - so much blood, sweat and tears has been poured into it for so long. We laid the wood floors together, Nathanael's handprint is in the texture on the wall in their room, Carlye painted the closet when she was 2 years old, Ryan, David and Carl hung the ceiling. So many projects, so many friends, so many years. And now, 13 years later, it looks like we are going to actually finish our home. Amazing.
Unless I forgot something.
You may all applaud.
Thank you.
Remodel Day #1 - My house is naked. I no longer have any porches or rock work on my house, and you can see the beautiful shade of baby blue that we painted our house originally (it was only that way for about a week). It makes me thankful for where we are, and sad that we are going to sell this house when it is finished - so much blood, sweat and tears has been poured into it for so long. We laid the wood floors together, Nathanael's handprint is in the texture on the wall in their room, Carlye painted the closet when she was 2 years old, Ryan, David and Carl hung the ceiling. So many projects, so many friends, so many years. And now, 13 years later, it looks like we are going to actually finish our home. Amazing.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Super Fun Day
Today I had a super fun day. I know you will all be jealous.
First, I got to go the doctor and have them stick 3 different needles full of burning pain into my knee (the Dr called it numbing medicine).
Then, he shot more painful stuff called dye into my 'numbed' knee. It was not numb. I was thrilled.
After twisting me knee into positions I'm not overly fond of I learned 3 things:
1) My meniscus is torn, but not dangling.
2) I have broken pieces of cartilage floating around in my knee
3) They don't know what's causing the swelling.
Yippee! My reward for the afternoon was to NOT know what's going on or how to fix it.
I know, you're green with envy.
Oh - and for some psycho crazy reason we have decided to remodel our house before the end of the year. This should be relaxing.
First, I got to go the doctor and have them stick 3 different needles full of burning pain into my knee (the Dr called it numbing medicine).
Then, he shot more painful stuff called dye into my 'numbed' knee. It was not numb. I was thrilled.
After twisting me knee into positions I'm not overly fond of I learned 3 things:
1) My meniscus is torn, but not dangling.
2) I have broken pieces of cartilage floating around in my knee
3) They don't know what's causing the swelling.
Yippee! My reward for the afternoon was to NOT know what's going on or how to fix it.
I know, you're green with envy.
Oh - and for some psycho crazy reason we have decided to remodel our house before the end of the year. This should be relaxing.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Tis the season....
Yesterday I had a little Christmas party. In preparation I made sugar cookies and gingerbread cookies that we hand decorated, chocolate covered butter snaps, pretzel sticks covered with chocolate snowmen, snowflakes and Santas, peppermint almond bark, wassail and home made hot chocolate (we had a hot chocolate "bar" with all different types of toppings - marshmallows, whip cream, choc chips, white choc chips, Andes mint pieces, Heath bar pieces, and peppermint sticks to stir with). My final contribution was going to be Christmas spritz cookies. Little did I know, I was NOT meant to make these. As I was preparing the dough - 30 minutes before I needed to leave for the Christmas party - my $6 hand blender blew up. It had a good life. Then, because he loves me, my husband came and rigged it and finished beating the dough for me. Then, sadly, while I was pressing the cookies, my cookie press exploded! I am not kidding. My Wilton cookie press burst into tiny plastic pieces around the top where you screw on the press. Sadly, we were only able to make 1 batch of Christmas spritz cookies (but they were yummy!) before the second electronic death of the night.
All of this to say - I AM A GENIUS!!!
Yes, I am. The one and only Christmas party that I had to have anything to do with is over, and I can now go about enjoying the month of December.
Life is so good.
All of this to say - I AM A GENIUS!!!
Yes, I am. The one and only Christmas party that I had to have anything to do with is over, and I can now go about enjoying the month of December.
Life is so good.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Snow
It snowed today. And it was beautiful. None of it stuck, but it was a beautiful, thick snow while it was falling - and it was REAL snow, not the crazy ice balls that we usually get here in Texas. Soft, fluffy, beautiful snow flakes that you could catch on your tongue, while standing in the middle of hundreds of other snowflakes that fell to the ground.
I am so thankful for snow.
I am so thankful for snow.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
FYI
In regards to my post from earlier today, I do NOT believe that it is okay to discipline children in anger, and very rarely do so (I wish I could say never, but, sadly, I am as of yet not entirely perfect).
That is all. You may now go about your day.
That is all. You may now go about your day.
My eldest child
Something is severely wrong with my eldest child. Frankly, I think that she has completely lost her mind. She forgets things, is disrespectful, and doesn't like the same things 2 days in a row. Carl thinks its funny. Me, not so much.
For example, today I told her that she could wear her hair down if she wore a headband to keep it out of her face. I even reminded her three times. Halfway to school I notice there is no headband. Hey, I have 3 kids, it takes me a while to notice things sometimes! I don't care what her hair looks like - I really don't, but this forgetful disobeying stuff is really getting to me. When I asked her why she disobeyed me she said, "I didn't disobey you mom, I just forgot." "Is there a headband in your hair?" I asked.
"No"
"Did I tell you to put a head band in your hair?"
"Yes"
"Then you disobeyed me."
For some reason this mood made her angry, and attitude sprung forth out of her soul.
So, I disciplined her in anger.
How? you may ask. I'll tell you.
She has to have her hair fixed every day for the next week.
This almost made her cry.
Some children need spankings or to be grounded. The best discipline for MY girl is to fix her hair. Such a sad world!
For example, today I told her that she could wear her hair down if she wore a headband to keep it out of her face. I even reminded her three times. Halfway to school I notice there is no headband. Hey, I have 3 kids, it takes me a while to notice things sometimes! I don't care what her hair looks like - I really don't, but this forgetful disobeying stuff is really getting to me. When I asked her why she disobeyed me she said, "I didn't disobey you mom, I just forgot." "Is there a headband in your hair?" I asked.
"No"
"Did I tell you to put a head band in your hair?"
"Yes"
"Then you disobeyed me."
For some reason this mood made her angry, and attitude sprung forth out of her soul.
So, I disciplined her in anger.
How? you may ask. I'll tell you.
She has to have her hair fixed every day for the next week.
This almost made her cry.
Some children need spankings or to be grounded. The best discipline for MY girl is to fix her hair. Such a sad world!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
A very bad day
I may have to have knee surgery. I am not happy about this.
I just found out (several months late) that I am the room mom for my oldest sons class. I am not happy about this.
As a result of being unable to run, I cannot eat whatever I want anymore. I am not happy about this.
My week has been messed up because of drs appts, therapist appts and such stuff. I am not happy about this.
My husband and his best friend just finished my upstairs and the loft. I am very happy about this.
I just found out (several months late) that I am the room mom for my oldest sons class. I am not happy about this.
As a result of being unable to run, I cannot eat whatever I want anymore. I am not happy about this.
My week has been messed up because of drs appts, therapist appts and such stuff. I am not happy about this.
My husband and his best friend just finished my upstairs and the loft. I am very happy about this.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Happy Birthday, Heidi Noel Bailey Bahlmann!
Happy Birthday, little sister! I love you so much, and I hope that you have bestest day ever. One of my favorite memories of us all together is when we use to all jump and cuddle in your bed on Christmas Eve/Christmas Morning, taking turns sneaking into the living room to see what was in our stockings. You were always the brave, strong one, and big sister loved cuddling with you. I wish that we could celebrate your special day together, but please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers all day. I love you!
Monday, November 30, 2009
The dangers of a treadmill
At the gym that I work out in there are signs EVERYWHERE that say children under the age of 14 years old are not allowed on the equipment. Because of this Noah usually watches Star Wars on my laptop while I work out. Today, however, I was working on my laptop (easy to do on a stinky old stationary bike), so he was watching Scooby Doo and the Pink Panther on the TV hanging on the wall. Apparently these shows are horrifically boring. After a few minutes my son informed me that he wanted to work out too, so he began running very slowly on the treadmill next to me. Rather quickly, he learned how to adjust the speed on the treadmill. After I warned him not to go too fast he slowed it down, and ran pretty steadily for about 10 minutes.
10 minutes is enough time to lull you into a false sense of security and cause you as a mother to be more easily distracted because things seem to be under control.
Right about this time, my son speeds the treadmill up as fast as he can get it to go. His little legs kept up for a good 20 seconds, but disaster was imminent. Suddenly, he went flying off the back of the treadmill (not kidding) and slammed into the mirror on the wall behind us. To make matters worse, he then tried to crawl back onto the treadmill and was sent flying into the mirror again!
Thankfully, he was not hurt.
Which is great, since I laughed.
And now has a great story to tell people.
*Side note, after 1 hour on Weight Loss mode on a stationary bike you burn about 400 calories. In 30 minutes of a difficult level on the elliptical you burn almost 700 calories. So uncool.
10 minutes is enough time to lull you into a false sense of security and cause you as a mother to be more easily distracted because things seem to be under control.
Right about this time, my son speeds the treadmill up as fast as he can get it to go. His little legs kept up for a good 20 seconds, but disaster was imminent. Suddenly, he went flying off the back of the treadmill (not kidding) and slammed into the mirror on the wall behind us. To make matters worse, he then tried to crawl back onto the treadmill and was sent flying into the mirror again!
Thankfully, he was not hurt.
Which is great, since I laughed.
And now has a great story to tell people.
*Side note, after 1 hour on Weight Loss mode on a stationary bike you burn about 400 calories. In 30 minutes of a difficult level on the elliptical you burn almost 700 calories. So uncool.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
The Christmas Night
The Christmas Night by Lucy Maude Montgomery
Wrapped was the world in slumber deep,
By seaward valley and cedarn steep,
And bright and blest were the dreams of its sleep;
All the hours of that wonderful night-tide through
The stars outblossomed in fields of blue,
A heavenly chaplet, to diadem
The King in the manger of Bethlehem.
Out on the hills the shepherds lay,
Wakeful, that never a lamb might stray,
Humble and clean of heart were they;
Thus it was given them to hear
Marvelous harpings strange and clear,
Thus it was given them to see
The heralds of the nativity.
In the dim-lit stable the mother mild
Looked with holy eyes on her child,
Cradled him close to her heart and smile;
Kingly purple nor crown had he,
Never a trapping of royalty;
But Mary saw that the baby's hear
With a slender nimbus was garlanded.
Speechless her joy as she watched him there,
Forgetful of pain and grief and care,
And every thought in her soul was a prayer;
While under the dome of the desert sky
The Kings of the East from afar drew night,
And the great white star was guide to them
Kept ward o'er the manger of Bethlehem.
Wrapped was the world in slumber deep,
By seaward valley and cedarn steep,
And bright and blest were the dreams of its sleep;
All the hours of that wonderful night-tide through
The stars outblossomed in fields of blue,
A heavenly chaplet, to diadem
The King in the manger of Bethlehem.
Out on the hills the shepherds lay,
Wakeful, that never a lamb might stray,
Humble and clean of heart were they;
Thus it was given them to hear
Marvelous harpings strange and clear,
Thus it was given them to see
The heralds of the nativity.
In the dim-lit stable the mother mild
Looked with holy eyes on her child,
Cradled him close to her heart and smile;
Kingly purple nor crown had he,
Never a trapping of royalty;
But Mary saw that the baby's hear
With a slender nimbus was garlanded.
Speechless her joy as she watched him there,
Forgetful of pain and grief and care,
And every thought in her soul was a prayer;
While under the dome of the desert sky
The Kings of the East from afar drew night,
And the great white star was guide to them
Kept ward o'er the manger of Bethlehem.
Thank you, Heather!
Look! Heather made my blog all cute and pretty! I couldn't make it work - being computer illiterate and all - so she fixed it for me! Thank you! It looks awesome! You're the best!
Oh, and I love you, too!
Oh, and I love you, too!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Squirrel Trap
Over the Thanksgiving holiday my children spent quite a bit of time outside on the ranch. And they LOVED it. They would go off on "adventures" and do all kinds of exciting things.
On of those things for the boys was building a squirrel trap.
It was a very complicated contraption with a trigger (which all traps must have) that released two VERY large rocks. These rocks, in theory, would then fall on the squirrel and stun/kill said squirrel.
Sadly, while climbing through it to do something or another, the trigger was released and the two VERY large rocks fell down upon my youngest sons head instead.
And let me just say, after feeling those welts on the top of his head, I'm pretty sure the squirrel wouldn't have stood a chance.
On of those things for the boys was building a squirrel trap.
It was a very complicated contraption with a trigger (which all traps must have) that released two VERY large rocks. These rocks, in theory, would then fall on the squirrel and stun/kill said squirrel.
Sadly, while climbing through it to do something or another, the trigger was released and the two VERY large rocks fell down upon my youngest sons head instead.
And let me just say, after feeling those welts on the top of his head, I'm pretty sure the squirrel wouldn't have stood a chance.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving!
Well, tomorrow is one of my most favorite holidays. I love Thanksgiving. I love the food, I love the peace of sitting with friends and family and loved ones. I love the laziness and yes, I even love the football! However, I doubt that I will be posting tomorrow, so here is my list of things that I'm thankful for. One for every year of my life (in no particular order):
1) My family - all of them. My husband and children, my mom and dad and sisters and brother in laws and nieces and nephews and my Popi and Grandma and all of my aunts and uncles and cousins and my in laws who aren't really in-laws but family.
2) I'm thankful that I live in Texas
3) I'm thankful for books - all of them
4) I'm thankful for notebooks - blank ones that I can fill with my thoughts and dreams
5) I'm thankful that I am an American
6) I'm thankful that my husband is such an amazing man (he brings me flowers lots) and good provider.
7) I'm thankful that he's a good daddy, too (that's so big it has to be by itself!)
8) I'm thankful for a car that fits all of my 'family' and runs well
9) I'm thankful for blogs and the way that they help me stay in touch with family so very far away on such a special day
10) I'm thankful for doctors who actually care about you
11) I'm thankful for my friends. The lifers. The ones that you can't shake away with ugliness and meanness and life. The good ones.
12) Carlye - my beautiful reminder that I'm thankful I only have one daughter, and doubly thankful that it got to be her!
13) Nathanael - my dramatic and thoughtful son, who shames me often with his kindness and thoughtfulness for others.
14) Noah - my son who shouldn't have gotten here, and who makes sure that he lives every day of his life in a way that we all know he's here!
15) I'm thankful for rain on a tin roof
16) I'm thankful for cozy lofts with comfy chairs and bookshelves loaded with good books
17) I'm thankful for the beautiful ranch that we live on
18) I'm thankful for good schools and good teachers and children who are willing to learn
19) I'm thankful for family recipes that are passed down from generation to generation
20) I'm thankful for board games
21) I'm thankful for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
22) I'm thankful for yummy food such as pumpkin pies and sour cream potato casserole and yeasty rolls with jam
23) I'm thankful for fall leaves
24) I'm thankful for healthy food and healthy exercise and for discovering the love of running
25) Which in turn makes me VERY thankful for music!
26) I'm thankful for sweet little fuzzy puppies who are loyal and love you no matter what
27) I'm thankful for washers and dryers - not kidding
28) I'm thankful for indoor plumbing (and yes, I've lived without it), I'm also thankful for indoor heating, a mattress and a kitchen - all of which I've lived without it.
29) I'm thankful that I get to be a stay home mom for my children
30) I'm thankful for my church
31) I'm thankful for my heritage
32) I'm thankful for life
1) My family - all of them. My husband and children, my mom and dad and sisters and brother in laws and nieces and nephews and my Popi and Grandma and all of my aunts and uncles and cousins and my in laws who aren't really in-laws but family.
2) I'm thankful that I live in Texas
3) I'm thankful for books - all of them
4) I'm thankful for notebooks - blank ones that I can fill with my thoughts and dreams
5) I'm thankful that I am an American
6) I'm thankful that my husband is such an amazing man (he brings me flowers lots) and good provider.
7) I'm thankful that he's a good daddy, too (that's so big it has to be by itself!)
8) I'm thankful for a car that fits all of my 'family' and runs well
9) I'm thankful for blogs and the way that they help me stay in touch with family so very far away on such a special day
10) I'm thankful for doctors who actually care about you
11) I'm thankful for my friends. The lifers. The ones that you can't shake away with ugliness and meanness and life. The good ones.
12) Carlye - my beautiful reminder that I'm thankful I only have one daughter, and doubly thankful that it got to be her!
13) Nathanael - my dramatic and thoughtful son, who shames me often with his kindness and thoughtfulness for others.
14) Noah - my son who shouldn't have gotten here, and who makes sure that he lives every day of his life in a way that we all know he's here!
15) I'm thankful for rain on a tin roof
16) I'm thankful for cozy lofts with comfy chairs and bookshelves loaded with good books
17) I'm thankful for the beautiful ranch that we live on
18) I'm thankful for good schools and good teachers and children who are willing to learn
19) I'm thankful for family recipes that are passed down from generation to generation
20) I'm thankful for board games
21) I'm thankful for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
22) I'm thankful for yummy food such as pumpkin pies and sour cream potato casserole and yeasty rolls with jam
23) I'm thankful for fall leaves
24) I'm thankful for healthy food and healthy exercise and for discovering the love of running
25) Which in turn makes me VERY thankful for music!
26) I'm thankful for sweet little fuzzy puppies who are loyal and love you no matter what
27) I'm thankful for washers and dryers - not kidding
28) I'm thankful for indoor plumbing (and yes, I've lived without it), I'm also thankful for indoor heating, a mattress and a kitchen - all of which I've lived without it.
29) I'm thankful that I get to be a stay home mom for my children
30) I'm thankful for my church
31) I'm thankful for my heritage
32) I'm thankful for life
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Did I mention...
Did I mention that Carl's gone again? Hunting, in New Mexico. He comes home tomorrow (so thankful!) but has been gone since last Thursday. It has been a hard week. Just sayin....
Ouch!
I'm hurt. The doctor said. I either have a type of tendonitis in my knee, or I've torn my meniscus. He could feel the heat coming off of my knee in the office it is so inflamed (I could, too). Sooo, no running. At all. No elliptical. Only a bike and upper body. I have to do physical therapy for 2 weeks, then re-evaluate. If it's not better then we have to do an MRI. If it is better then I can start running again, but I'm not allowed to run the full marathon in February. I have to run/walk and not finish any faster than a 4 hr 30 min or 5 hour marathon. I'm bummed. Really, really bummed. But I'm not giving up. I'll bike, I'll work out, and we'll get it. And then maybe next fall I can run a "real" one.
Nope, I'm NOT giving up.
Nope, I'm NOT giving up.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Flip-Flop
I am now Team Jacob.
It's true. I've read the books, I've always been Team Edward but for now, after seeing the movie, I am Team Jacob.
(I reserve the right to change my mind whenever and wherever I feel like it. Thank you.)
It's true. I've read the books, I've always been Team Edward but for now, after seeing the movie, I am Team Jacob.
(I reserve the right to change my mind whenever and wherever I feel like it. Thank you.)
The Nutcracker
Every year my wonderful mom-in-law brings her granddaughters and their mommas to see the performance of the Nutcracker. Of course, before we go we have a yummilicious tea party at Queen B's. The girls love it because they get to pour their 'tea', put sugar cubes, honey or cream in it, and they are served Princess lunches with sandwiches shaped like tiaras, on fancy plates that are surprisingly similar to small cake stands with doilies on them. They LOVE it. And so do I. The ballet was beautiful, and it was a wonderful day.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Ponderings
Thanksgiving is less than a week away. Christmas is in 35 days. Christmas trees are being cut and drug to the lots so that people can decorate them after a glutinous meal on Turkey day. Many of us are doing our best to buy that perfect gift for all of the special someones in our lives. We want oohs and ahhs and tears on Christmas morning - and brilliant smiles on our children's faces. Memories that will last a life time of decorating cookies, baking pies, and wrapping presents. All while making sure that our children haven't forgotten the true meaning of Christmas. The birth of our Savior. God as man. The heavenly dwelling on earth. But is that the true meaning of Christmas? Or moreover, all there is to the true meaning of Christmas?
Maybe we can't find the Christmas spirit because we've forgotten what it's about.
Jesus wasn't born so that we could heap and pile lavish presents on each other, or fill the bottom of the Christmas tree to overflowing. He came to change the world. He came to a poor, young, mother with a carpenter for a father. He was born in a filthy barn on the wrong side of the tracks, and his first birth announcement came to some dirty, lonely men on a hill watching their sheep.
That is the message of Christmas. To go to the needy. To make a difference. To change the world.
Have you been to that side of town? Have you befriended the single mother or widowed father? The delinquent teenager, the drug addict, the alcoholic, the abused child? The poor?
The real poor - not the ones who will only get two or three presents for Christmas - the ones who don't have a place to live, food to eat, shelter? Who cares about stockings and ham, they just want to survive until tomorrow. And who cares wether or not they deserve it, because do they really? Yes, some have a choice - many (the children) don't - but they still shouldn't be there. That's not what they were created for, not who they were intended to be. They are somebody's child. Not mine, maybe not yours, but somebody's. Sure, we can do our Angel Trees, the Salvation Army, Christmas shoe boxes and donations to private organizations, and that is all good and fine. But have you been there? Have your children been there? Do they understand that there are kids who need - really need? Have you given the hugs, and shared the smiles, and touched a life. You can throw your money at them, but can you show them your love? Your caring? Your Christianity? Have you touched them? Have you cried for them? Have you felt compassion and tenderness and understanding and mercy? Have you REALLY wanted to make a difference. A real difference, not the fleeting fancy that accompanies a tender story or heart breaking picture.
Buy that person at work a bed, spend your Christmas money on someone else's kids who would otherwise not have a Christmas. Smile. Care. Live.
'Cause Jesus came to change the world. That's what Christmas is all about.
And by world, He means you.
Maybe we can't find the Christmas spirit because we've forgotten what it's about.
Jesus wasn't born so that we could heap and pile lavish presents on each other, or fill the bottom of the Christmas tree to overflowing. He came to change the world. He came to a poor, young, mother with a carpenter for a father. He was born in a filthy barn on the wrong side of the tracks, and his first birth announcement came to some dirty, lonely men on a hill watching their sheep.
That is the message of Christmas. To go to the needy. To make a difference. To change the world.
Have you been to that side of town? Have you befriended the single mother or widowed father? The delinquent teenager, the drug addict, the alcoholic, the abused child? The poor?
The real poor - not the ones who will only get two or three presents for Christmas - the ones who don't have a place to live, food to eat, shelter? Who cares about stockings and ham, they just want to survive until tomorrow. And who cares wether or not they deserve it, because do they really? Yes, some have a choice - many (the children) don't - but they still shouldn't be there. That's not what they were created for, not who they were intended to be. They are somebody's child. Not mine, maybe not yours, but somebody's. Sure, we can do our Angel Trees, the Salvation Army, Christmas shoe boxes and donations to private organizations, and that is all good and fine. But have you been there? Have your children been there? Do they understand that there are kids who need - really need? Have you given the hugs, and shared the smiles, and touched a life. You can throw your money at them, but can you show them your love? Your caring? Your Christianity? Have you touched them? Have you cried for them? Have you felt compassion and tenderness and understanding and mercy? Have you REALLY wanted to make a difference. A real difference, not the fleeting fancy that accompanies a tender story or heart breaking picture.
Buy that person at work a bed, spend your Christmas money on someone else's kids who would otherwise not have a Christmas. Smile. Care. Live.
'Cause Jesus came to change the world. That's what Christmas is all about.
And by world, He means you.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Ouch
I have hurt my knee. No, not while I was running or working out, not even while I was walking up stairs or something. My middle child rammed a large plastic crate into my knee as I was entering the living room. I then tried to run on it a few days later. Can I just say, not the brightest of my ideas? I now have a knee the size of a grapefruit - and it really hurts. Alas, I must now go to the dr and have it checked - stink! Thankfully, my beloved doctor used to run marathons, so I know that he'll know exactly what I need to do to get up and running again.
Meanwhile, I must share a story with all of you.
Last Saturday I had to run 3 miles. On Friday when I was running I fell down the hill in front of our house (I blogged about this when it happened). Since I was going to be running all by my lonesome on Saturday I brought my phone with me. Just in case I fell down again and actually got hurt this time. I'm not one of those who is willing to wait to be discovered lying injured along the path. As I'm running through the pasture, I come across our cattle, and our friendly resident bull decides that he's not too happy I'm there. After the second hoof stomp I decided to go off the trail a bit (okay, into the really tall grass until he was out of sight). Upon reaching the house, I realized that I had lost my phone. Carl was thrilled when I told him.
So we began looking for it. My entire family of 5 walked that trail 3 times. And just so ya know, it is really hard to find a green phone lost in a pasture - on vibrate.
But, my husband is brilliant. He waited until it was dark, called my phone, and then followed the light.
My hero.
Meanwhile, I must share a story with all of you.
Last Saturday I had to run 3 miles. On Friday when I was running I fell down the hill in front of our house (I blogged about this when it happened). Since I was going to be running all by my lonesome on Saturday I brought my phone with me. Just in case I fell down again and actually got hurt this time. I'm not one of those who is willing to wait to be discovered lying injured along the path. As I'm running through the pasture, I come across our cattle, and our friendly resident bull decides that he's not too happy I'm there. After the second hoof stomp I decided to go off the trail a bit (okay, into the really tall grass until he was out of sight). Upon reaching the house, I realized that I had lost my phone. Carl was thrilled when I told him.
So we began looking for it. My entire family of 5 walked that trail 3 times. And just so ya know, it is really hard to find a green phone lost in a pasture - on vibrate.
But, my husband is brilliant. He waited until it was dark, called my phone, and then followed the light.
My hero.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The official story
Yesterday was my long run day. 7 miles to be exact. What scares me is that my long run will eventually be 20 miles, and I will consider 5, 6 and 7 miles my short runs. It's sick, really. But I digress.....
So, I left my house with my ipod, prepared to run 7 miles. I felt great, and was excited about the run. My shins were bothering me, and so is my right knee, but during the second mile the pain completely went away. It was completely exhilarating, and I knew that I was going to have a good time with this run. Suddenly, from over the hill, I see my sister in laws car driving insanely fast. Carl is running behind me, and she whips up and yells for us to jump in the car. On the horrifically scary 1 minute ride back to the house (we run on the ranch) she informs us that Lil Buddy came running up to the house barefoot screaming that the other kids were being attacked by bees.
When we got there all of the kids were standing in the yard, and they ALL began to cry when we got out of the car. Can I just say that when 6 kids all cry at one time it is REALLY loud! We quickly realize that only Lil Brisket and my "neice" Ashlynn had been stung. They had all gone on an adventure, and the oldest two had been a few feet ahead of the younger ones. Then, Ashlynn sat on a rock which the hive was apparently under. She had between 20 and 30 stings all over her body, and my youngest had 2. One under his eye and one on his ear. Over the next few minutes we realize that Briskets ear is swelling to 2x it's normal size, and that Ashlynn has enough stings that we need to go into the ER. First, let me say that she was wearing a pajama shirt and a pair of pants that were 2 sizes too small because when she came in the house she was soaking wet - from head to toe. Turns out that as the kids ran the bees followed them, so Freckles had her jump in a puddle and roll around to get the bees off of her. While they were doing this Freckles sent the barefoot Lil Buddy back to the house for us.
Needless to say I didn't finish my run. But now the kids hae a totally awesome story to tell!
So, I left my house with my ipod, prepared to run 7 miles. I felt great, and was excited about the run. My shins were bothering me, and so is my right knee, but during the second mile the pain completely went away. It was completely exhilarating, and I knew that I was going to have a good time with this run. Suddenly, from over the hill, I see my sister in laws car driving insanely fast. Carl is running behind me, and she whips up and yells for us to jump in the car. On the horrifically scary 1 minute ride back to the house (we run on the ranch) she informs us that Lil Buddy came running up to the house barefoot screaming that the other kids were being attacked by bees.
When we got there all of the kids were standing in the yard, and they ALL began to cry when we got out of the car. Can I just say that when 6 kids all cry at one time it is REALLY loud! We quickly realize that only Lil Brisket and my "neice" Ashlynn had been stung. They had all gone on an adventure, and the oldest two had been a few feet ahead of the younger ones. Then, Ashlynn sat on a rock which the hive was apparently under. She had between 20 and 30 stings all over her body, and my youngest had 2. One under his eye and one on his ear. Over the next few minutes we realize that Briskets ear is swelling to 2x it's normal size, and that Ashlynn has enough stings that we need to go into the ER. First, let me say that she was wearing a pajama shirt and a pair of pants that were 2 sizes too small because when she came in the house she was soaking wet - from head to toe. Turns out that as the kids ran the bees followed them, so Freckles had her jump in a puddle and roll around to get the bees off of her. While they were doing this Freckles sent the barefoot Lil Buddy back to the house for us.
Needless to say I didn't finish my run. But now the kids hae a totally awesome story to tell!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Long run and Killer bees
I didn't finish my long run (7 miles) today. I only got in three before my son and my "niece" were stung by what was quite possibly killer bees. It has been a really exciting evening. Everyone is fine, and I am tired, so I'll post more tomorrow. Stay tuned!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
My Popi
Happy Birthday, Popi!
Yesterday was my Popi's birthday. And everyone should know this for several reasons. The first one being that he is the most wonderful grandpa in all of the world. He has ALWAYS loved me. And I have ALWAYS known it.
As a little girl, and even as I grew up, I was blessed to go on the most amazing adventures with my Grandma and Popi.
1) We went to the zoo. Often. And we would get to ride the boats or the elephants while we were there.
2) He took my flying in a helicopter. Sadly, since I was too little to understand how wonderful such things were, I was more excited about the soda machine in the hanger than flying through a cloud.
3) They gave me Jocko - my giant stuffed monkey that I still have. He lives in Freckles room now.
4) I would get to spend weeks at a time at their house during the summer, and I would swim like a fish. I even remember Popi having an instructor come and teach us one year!
5) Popi would take me to the opera and the symphony. And often before we would go Grandma would buy me a beautiful new dress to wear. I always felt like such a princess when I would go on my "dates" with Popi.
6) Christmas. Every year we would get something home made. I still cherish them to this day. I have my doll bed, and I'm holding on to Heidi's for Anneke (did you know that?). We had beautiful beds, stools, desks, bookshelves..... Our rooms had the most beautiful furniture in the world, handmade by our very own personal Popi.
7) Popi would rock us and sing us lullaby's. Even when we were way to big for such things.
8) Whenever I would play the piano for him he would act as though I were a world class pianist, and tell me over and over again how beautiful it was when I was finished.
9) Even after he and grandma moved to a different state they would still bring us on adventures - Gooseberry National Park; Arches National Park; Hogle Zoo, he took Carl fishing for lake trout.
10) When they would return 'home' for a visit they would ALWAYS come and see me. Even if it took some detective work to find me, they would. Without fail, every time.
11) He came when my first child was born. I had just lost my grandma (he had just lost his wife), who had been my best friend my entire life, and my Popi (and Pam - and the Dittmars!) came and was there when Freckles was born. His very first great grandchild.
12) One of the reasons that I want my children to have their grandpa close is because I know how wonderful it is to have one who loves you unconditionally and irrevocably. A Popi who will do anything with you and for you, build you amazing things (along with your daddy!) and take you to amazing places. And, let's face it, during all of those years it takes us to realize that our parents really are incredible people, it's nice to have a Grandma and Popi to go to for everything.
Happy Birthday, Popi! I miss you and love you more than you may ever know. And I am so thankful and blessed that you are mine.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Rusty Nail
A few days ago my barefoot baby (okay, 5 year old) stepped on a rusty nail. It was tragic and sad, but the absolutely worst part was the fact that when I called the Dr's office they said that he had NOT had his tetanus shot on his 4th birthday. What?!?! So, dutifully his Daddy brought him in to get it. After waiting 45 minutes to see the Dr they were finally brought back into a room. The nurse recognized them from when we came in for his 5 year well check a month ago. She informed Carl that she was pretty sure that he had already had his shots, and that maybe they were just having a hard time finding the records, so she was going to run and check. As soon as she left the room, our little patient sitting upon the exam table brought both of his knees up to his chest, clasped his hands, bowed his head, and began to fervently pray until her return.
Our son now has a strong testimony about the power of prayer.
And how yummy ice cream is when you DON'T have to get a shot first.
My husband now has a strong dislike for doctors offices that make him rearrange his day and wait 45 minutes to tell him that he did NOT have to be there to begin with.
I was simply glad that it wasn't me!
I ran 3 miles today. I also fell today. Down a hill. It hurt badly. Still does actually. My entire right leg is bruised and my foot aches when I walk. My boys were "running" with me, and were incredibly shocked when I flipped on my side and slid part way down the hill. While my oldest son was deeply concerned my youngest stated incredulously, "Grown-ups aren't supposed to fall down hills! I've never seen one do that before!"
Our son now has a strong testimony about the power of prayer.
And how yummy ice cream is when you DON'T have to get a shot first.
My husband now has a strong dislike for doctors offices that make him rearrange his day and wait 45 minutes to tell him that he did NOT have to be there to begin with.
I was simply glad that it wasn't me!
I ran 3 miles today. I also fell today. Down a hill. It hurt badly. Still does actually. My entire right leg is bruised and my foot aches when I walk. My boys were "running" with me, and were incredibly shocked when I flipped on my side and slid part way down the hill. While my oldest son was deeply concerned my youngest stated incredulously, "Grown-ups aren't supposed to fall down hills! I've never seen one do that before!"
Friday, November 13, 2009
Continuing on
I ran 3 miles yesterday. Still can't feel my bum, but that's okay. I'm discovering that when I did it's excruciatingly painful so I don't have a problem with the numbness. (Did I mention that I LOVE stationary bicycles from the 1800's?) Thankfully, my feet didn't hurt after this run, and my muscles were only mildly sore. Sadly, my 5 year old ran the first half mile with me, and my husband had to point out that he was keeping pace with me. It's true. My son can run a 10 minute mile, too. I can't help but think that this means I should be running just a little bit faster!
Today, we are going to put up the Christmas tree. Yes, we are.
I don't care that it's not Thanksgiving yet.
I don't care that it's still hot here.
I don't care that everyone thinks I'm crazy.
Okay, maybe I care a little bit. But we're still doing it.
And, we're gonna eat caramel popcorn while we do it.
Side note: Freckles made A honor roll again! I am so proud! And she brought her A's up!
Coming soon: The tetanus shot adventure
Today, we are going to put up the Christmas tree. Yes, we are.
I don't care that it's not Thanksgiving yet.
I don't care that it's still hot here.
I don't care that everyone thinks I'm crazy.
Okay, maybe I care a little bit. But we're still doing it.
And, we're gonna eat caramel popcorn while we do it.
Side note: Freckles made A honor roll again! I am so proud! And she brought her A's up!
Coming soon: The tetanus shot adventure
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Cycling
Today I was supposed to cross-train. So, I did. I worked out this morning for an hour, lifting and working on my core. Then this afternoon I did an hour on a stationary bike. At least, I think that's what it was. My mother in law bought hers at a garage sale, and it may have actually been a weapon used for torture and/or interrogation during the war between the North and the South. Seriously, I can no longer feel my bum. I actually chose to stand and try to cycle even though it was harder on my legs because my bum hurt so badly. The pain is excruciating, and at this moment I am sad to even be sitting on the carpet.
So, I have decided to write a letter to Santa.
Dear Santa,
I am so sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if I could have Christmas early this year. You see, there are a couple of things that I need, and the quickest and easiest way I can think of getting them is to ask you! So, here goes:
1) I need (yes need - otherwise I will never be able to sit again because from what I understand, derriere's are necessary for such an activity) an all terrain mountain bike, preferably not an ugly one, but beggars can't be choosers.
2) A super-cute helmet to go with my bike that won't make me look like a sports dork
3) An ipod with a nifty little arm band so that I won't drop it during my running sprees
4) Some audio books to put on my ipod (You can only listen to so much music over 26.2 miles without going insane)
5) Cute running clothes - 'cause if I'm gonna limp across the finish line I at least want to look adorable doing it.
Sincerely,
Me
Tomorrow is my rest day, which is good, because I'm going to need my caboose to run again on Thursday. Of course, there is the possibility that cabooses are over-rated, in which case I'll be able to run just fine. I'll let you know.
So, I have decided to write a letter to Santa.
Dear Santa,
I am so sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if I could have Christmas early this year. You see, there are a couple of things that I need, and the quickest and easiest way I can think of getting them is to ask you! So, here goes:
1) I need (yes need - otherwise I will never be able to sit again because from what I understand, derriere's are necessary for such an activity) an all terrain mountain bike, preferably not an ugly one, but beggars can't be choosers.
2) A super-cute helmet to go with my bike that won't make me look like a sports dork
3) An ipod with a nifty little arm band so that I won't drop it during my running sprees
4) Some audio books to put on my ipod (You can only listen to so much music over 26.2 miles without going insane)
5) Cute running clothes - 'cause if I'm gonna limp across the finish line I at least want to look adorable doing it.
Sincerely,
Me
Tomorrow is my rest day, which is good, because I'm going to need my caboose to run again on Thursday. Of course, there is the possibility that cabooses are over-rated, in which case I'll be able to run just fine. I'll let you know.
Monday, November 9, 2009
I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID
I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT!
I just ran 6 miles - and I survived!!! AND I did it in 1 hour and 7 minutes. Okay, so it's not spectacular, but since up until a few weeks ago the most that I did was cheer when everyone else would run, I'm feeling pretty proud!
That's about all I'm feeling, though. I think I've misplaced my thighs. And my calves. And the bottom of my feet. And my sanity........
I just ran 6 miles - and I survived!!! AND I did it in 1 hour and 7 minutes. Okay, so it's not spectacular, but since up until a few weeks ago the most that I did was cheer when everyone else would run, I'm feeling pretty proud!
That's about all I'm feeling, though. I think I've misplaced my thighs. And my calves. And the bottom of my feet. And my sanity........
Incredible Day
Grocery Day is an incredible day,
Where Mom buys us lots of food.
She drops us off at school with a kiss
And is on her way to do good.
She'll shop for an hour or two,
Maybe more,
Buying food, toothpaste, shampoo,
And cleaner for the floor.
She'll then come home,
And unload all the loot,
While cleaning and doing laundry,
To boot!
Excited, we return from school
And devour all we see -
Why should we make it last for tomorrow?
We're as happy as can be!
For snack I'll have a yogurt,
Oh, that was for my lunch?
And a pear. Some crackers,
And some grapes - a whole bunch!
Next we'll sample the cheese sticks,
And an applesauce,
Hmm, what should I eat next?
I'm at a loss.
Oh! Let's crack some nuts,
Make a PB&J.
I'm full now - no dinner for me!
Three cheers for grocery day!
Where Mom buys us lots of food.
She drops us off at school with a kiss
And is on her way to do good.
She'll shop for an hour or two,
Maybe more,
Buying food, toothpaste, shampoo,
And cleaner for the floor.
She'll then come home,
And unload all the loot,
While cleaning and doing laundry,
To boot!
Excited, we return from school
And devour all we see -
Why should we make it last for tomorrow?
We're as happy as can be!
For snack I'll have a yogurt,
Oh, that was for my lunch?
And a pear. Some crackers,
And some grapes - a whole bunch!
Next we'll sample the cheese sticks,
And an applesauce,
Hmm, what should I eat next?
I'm at a loss.
Oh! Let's crack some nuts,
Make a PB&J.
I'm full now - no dinner for me!
Three cheers for grocery day!
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Recipes
Carl recently had his cholesterol checked. In the acceptable range of UNDER 200 he was 197. And while he is absolutely thrilled that he passed I see this differently. So, we are on a mission to lower his cholesterol. No more cream cheese chicken croissants or pork sausage casseroles. And definitely farewell to Lasagna Ole'. Hello, ummm, hello. Hmmm. Hello, what? I don't have any recipes now!!
Help me! I need recipes, but I need recipes that fit this criteria:
1) Low in cholesterol
2) Quick and easy to make (3 kids, school night, you get the idea)
3) Inexpenisve
4) Made out of venison or elk (okay, this part is optional)
Okay? Great - now throw 'em at me. I'm waiting already!
Help me! I need recipes, but I need recipes that fit this criteria:
1) Low in cholesterol
2) Quick and easy to make (3 kids, school night, you get the idea)
3) Inexpenisve
4) Made out of venison or elk (okay, this part is optional)
Okay? Great - now throw 'em at me. I'm waiting already!
Week One of Marathon Running is for crazy people
Sooo, I have almost (yes, almost) finished my first week of training for a marathon. It is, however, my third week to attempt it. I am proud to say, though, that this week it looks as though I will actually accomplish this amazing feat. Tomorrow is my long run, and if I can make it 6 miles I will be a proud, achy, unable to bend and touch my toes or walk up stairs like a normal person mom/wife.
Many of you are wondering why I have chosen to run a marathon. Sadly, at this moment, of constant achiness and knee cracking, all of my reasons seem completely ridiculous. I will, however, share them anyway:
1) To get fit and be a good example to my children
2) I've always wanted to (I think, this part could just be delusions by now)
3) Nobody thinks I can do it. Well, more people think I can do it than before. But still, that's my motivation, so be careful how you encourage me.
4) It makes your abs and gluts look GREAT! (Vanity, such a noble goal)
So as I'm running and my thigh cramps up, or I forget what it means to breathe, these are the reasons that run through my head over and over again. And, sadly, this is only after 3 miles. 23.2 to go.
Oh, oh, oh! I will say that running 3 miles HAS gotten easier (I'm not lying), I'm barely winded after it, and usually can run it straight through without stopping. Unless I drank too much water before hand or trip on my kid who can run faster than me or cramp up so badly that I have to stop and stretch. But that's only happened a few times. Mostly, I can finish.
Yay me!
Many of you are wondering why I have chosen to run a marathon. Sadly, at this moment, of constant achiness and knee cracking, all of my reasons seem completely ridiculous. I will, however, share them anyway:
1) To get fit and be a good example to my children
2) I've always wanted to (I think, this part could just be delusions by now)
3) Nobody thinks I can do it. Well, more people think I can do it than before. But still, that's my motivation, so be careful how you encourage me.
4) It makes your abs and gluts look GREAT! (Vanity, such a noble goal)
So as I'm running and my thigh cramps up, or I forget what it means to breathe, these are the reasons that run through my head over and over again. And, sadly, this is only after 3 miles. 23.2 to go.
Oh, oh, oh! I will say that running 3 miles HAS gotten easier (I'm not lying), I'm barely winded after it, and usually can run it straight through without stopping. Unless I drank too much water before hand or trip on my kid who can run faster than me or cramp up so badly that I have to stop and stretch. But that's only happened a few times. Mostly, I can finish.
Yay me!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
The Mean Girl
So, I am waking up and getting ready to go with my daughters 3rd grade class to the zoo. And yes, I'm excited. I have always LOVED the zoo! It's my Grandma and Popi's fault, really. I have the best memories of going with them and family to the zoo as a little girl. I do, however, have one little concern.
The mean girl.
You see, in 1st grade there was a mean little girl in my daughters class (who, oddly enough, was her best friend in Pre-K!?!?) and she bullied my daughter and picked on her to no end. I, naturally, believed that my daughter was reciprocating or in some way egging it on, so I would comfort her and let it go.
2nd grade mean girl was stronger and had a side kick. My daughter would make herself physically ill so she could come home from school. After much prayer and many school meetings, it was determined that my daughter would NOT be in the same little girls class again this year. Side kicks, either.
However, side kick has come climbing out of the woodwork to ruin what has been up until this point a VERY good year. She is calling my daughter "stinky girl" on the playground (which I KNOW is not true - she wears WAY too much deodorant and Body Spray to be stinky), tries to talk her friends into not playing with her, and other such not nice stuff.
And I have to go to the zoo with her.
I'm sure that there is the smallest of possibilities that she is actually a very nice girl, who simply has absolutely 100% no self control or understanding of what she says. Or, she could just be a bully.
Either way, I will be in the same area with her for the next 6 hours. Let's hope that she chooses to be nice to my little girl. Because I, for one, will not sit back and listen. I'll comment. Because I am a teacher. I'll tell her it's not nice, or ask her why she would say, that, or something. I know I will.
Oooooh, maybe her mom will be there! It would be so nice to meet her!
The mean girl.
You see, in 1st grade there was a mean little girl in my daughters class (who, oddly enough, was her best friend in Pre-K!?!?) and she bullied my daughter and picked on her to no end. I, naturally, believed that my daughter was reciprocating or in some way egging it on, so I would comfort her and let it go.
2nd grade mean girl was stronger and had a side kick. My daughter would make herself physically ill so she could come home from school. After much prayer and many school meetings, it was determined that my daughter would NOT be in the same little girls class again this year. Side kicks, either.
However, side kick has come climbing out of the woodwork to ruin what has been up until this point a VERY good year. She is calling my daughter "stinky girl" on the playground (which I KNOW is not true - she wears WAY too much deodorant and Body Spray to be stinky), tries to talk her friends into not playing with her, and other such not nice stuff.
And I have to go to the zoo with her.
I'm sure that there is the smallest of possibilities that she is actually a very nice girl, who simply has absolutely 100% no self control or understanding of what she says. Or, she could just be a bully.
Either way, I will be in the same area with her for the next 6 hours. Let's hope that she chooses to be nice to my little girl. Because I, for one, will not sit back and listen. I'll comment. Because I am a teacher. I'll tell her it's not nice, or ask her why she would say, that, or something. I know I will.
Oooooh, maybe her mom will be there! It would be so nice to meet her!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
The Biggest Loser
Spoiler Alert! Do not read this if you didn't watch the show last night and still plan to!
Tracy is gone!!! Yippee! The mean-spirited, self-centered woman is gone, and I am SO glad! She did look great though, and has lost a lot of weight, so I'm happy for her about that. In a weird kinda way.
Meanwhile, tomorrow I get to go the zoo with a bus full of 3rd graders. I'm actually really excited, because I LOVE the zoo. I'll post pictures tomorrow.
Tracy is gone!!! Yippee! The mean-spirited, self-centered woman is gone, and I am SO glad! She did look great though, and has lost a lot of weight, so I'm happy for her about that. In a weird kinda way.
Meanwhile, tomorrow I get to go the zoo with a bus full of 3rd graders. I'm actually really excited, because I LOVE the zoo. I'll post pictures tomorrow.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Zoo Boo
Putt-putt golf
Basketball
Face Painting
Waiting for the others
Family pic
Sitting on the lions
While we were waiting for the doors to open
Posing before we left
Saturday we went to Zoo Boo, and it was so great! The gist of the whole things was trick or treating at the zoo - is there anything cooler?!?!?
Basketball
Face Painting
Waiting for the others
Family pic
Sitting on the lions
While we were waiting for the doors to open
Posing before we left
Saturday we went to Zoo Boo, and it was so great! The gist of the whole things was trick or treating at the zoo - is there anything cooler?!?!?
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Pumpkin Parade
Only pic I could get of Obi Wan during parade - the force is strong with this one!
Deer Pumpkin in the middle
The red headed pumpkin is Caddie Woodlawn
Cap'n Cutie
Obi Wan Kenobi
Obi Wan's Pumpkin
This past Friday was the annual pumpkin parade at my Cap'n Cutie and Obi Wan's elementary school. Sooo, we decorated our pumpkins, dressed up, and celebrated! It was awesome!
Zoo Boo post to come!
Deer Pumpkin in the middle
The red headed pumpkin is Caddie Woodlawn
Cap'n Cutie
Obi Wan Kenobi
Obi Wan's Pumpkin
This past Friday was the annual pumpkin parade at my Cap'n Cutie and Obi Wan's elementary school. Sooo, we decorated our pumpkins, dressed up, and celebrated! It was awesome!
Zoo Boo post to come!
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