Wednesday May 22, 2013
Well, Mom is home. She and Dad stepped in the door yesterday morning. There were no other episodes with her heart and no reoccurance of arythmia.
To be cautious, the cardiologist has recommended that we postpone Mom's brain surgery until next week.
Her heart needs rest.
This is completely understandable, although we were anxious to get as much of the poison out of her brain as possible - as soon as possible. We, Mom especially, have been awaiting Friday's surgery for three weeks, preparing both physically and emotionally.
But you just can't mess with the heart.
So, we will wait, and she will rest.
I have a correction to my last post as well. The MRI that she will have just prior to surgery will take place in Novi, where she is having her brain surgery. I was mistaken when I wrote that she would have the MRI locally, and then have to drive to Novi for surgery. My apologies.
So, we don't have a definite day or time of the surgery at this point. Dad was going to call and set that up.
When she got home, he said she was a little "wobbly" and "light headed", which I suppose is to be expected.
I talked with her on the phone for a few (I was on speaker), and she sounded SO much better! Chipper and happy to be home. This was all good to me.
Tomorrow, I will be bringing some meals over that were made by some of my friends (and friends of Dad & Di) that will feed them while she is recovering. Every little bit helps to lighten the load on Dad or friends who are caretaking while she is in recovery at home. I am incredibly thankful to all of my/our friends and family for their support, prayers and meals. My heart aches as I think of the long journey we have yet to endure - and I want to do everything for them.
But I can't.
And it's amazing to me how people - families, friends, acquaintances, communities - pull together to support one another.
So, let's keep it up! Thank you again, and I'll let you all know when her surgery is next scheduled for and we'll continue to pray that she stays healthy and stable enough to get there this time!
Showing posts with label Reality Check Life's a gift really. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reality Check Life's a gift really. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Monday, May 20, 2013
One Day at a Time - An Update On Mom
Monday May 20, 2013
Just got an update from Dad:
"Di is still in the hospital for another 24 for observation. They now are fairly confident that a vessel spasmed causing the arythmia. She feels fine, but 48 hours is the time frame of possible reoccurance in this situation.
We now have to report to the (local) hospital on Friday morning at 5:00 am for a MRI prior to surgery. We still don't know if her surgery will be postponed or not. The local hospital is talking to the surgeons' office with details. The local hospital is also taking measures to avoid potponement of Friday's surgery."
Dad is doing such a great job!! He is informing immediate family of the latest details, and I am enforming everyone else through this outlet.
If you're just getting caught up, you can read the updates on Mom (Dianne) from the beginning. In Order:
Never Give Up The Fight
It's The Calm
Hope Renewed
A Bump In The Road
It's been just over 3 weeks since we first found out, and what a whirlwind it's been!
I will continue to keep you all updated as things develop.
Our family cannot thank you enough for your continued support and prayers - and we need them to continue!
Just got an update from Dad:
"Di is still in the hospital for another 24 for observation. They now are fairly confident that a vessel spasmed causing the arythmia. She feels fine, but 48 hours is the time frame of possible reoccurance in this situation.
We now have to report to the (local) hospital on Friday morning at 5:00 am for a MRI prior to surgery. We still don't know if her surgery will be postponed or not. The local hospital is talking to the surgeons' office with details. The local hospital is also taking measures to avoid potponement of Friday's surgery."
Dad is doing such a great job!! He is informing immediate family of the latest details, and I am enforming everyone else through this outlet.
If you're just getting caught up, you can read the updates on Mom (Dianne) from the beginning. In Order:
Never Give Up The Fight
It's The Calm
Hope Renewed
A Bump In The Road
It's been just over 3 weeks since we first found out, and what a whirlwind it's been!
I will continue to keep you all updated as things develop.
Our family cannot thank you enough for your continued support and prayers - and we need them to continue!
Sunday, May 19, 2013
A Bump In the Road
Ah, Sunday... We had an entire day planned with fun things outside with the girls, a little grocery shopping, maybe some ice cream after dinner...
But something happened.
I got a phone call from my dad around 9:30 in the morning.
Mom (Dianne) had a heart attack this morning.
My knees almost buckled as he proceeded to tell me the few details he could muster. He said they were still in the ER, and he didn't have many answers yet.
I immediately made arrangements for the girls to head to their Bumpa & Gwi Gwi's for a few hours. I called both of my brothers to let them know what had happened, and we left for the hospital.
This time seemed different. My dad seemed a little more "out of it", like he needed me.
When we got to the hospital, I gave hugs and surveyed her well-being. She seemed ok. She was unable to move, they were making her lie still until they determined it was okay for her to move or sit up.
I started asking questions. This is what happened:
Last night she had been suffering from some pretty severe joint pain. Severe enough that it brought her to tears. She took some pain meds and went to bed. When she woke this morning, her knees were still in a lot of pain.
They were drinking coffee this morning and throwing the frisbee for the dog. Suddenly, Mom said that her chest was starting to hurt. It got to the point that Dad felt the need to have her checked out by an EMT, so he called their neighbor, who is a firefighter for their city. When he didn't answer, dad left to go over to his house. As he walked out the front door, his neighbor was also, coming toward dad's house. Dad explained what was going on, and the neighbor immediately called it in as a Priority 1.
When the EMT crew showed up, they checked her out and determined she needed to be taken to the hospital. They put her in the ambulance, my dad followed, and off they were.
She had just had an EKG this past Tuesday in preparation for her tumor surgery, and was completely cleared for surgery.
But on the way to hospital, she went into v-tach (Ventricular tachycardia - rapid heartbeat) and had to be shocked.
When they got to the hospital, she had many tests. Of course, my dad was swift about letting them know about her brain tumor, and the upcoming surgery. That obviously changed their course of treatment for the heart attack.
Initially, they were thinking her brain surgery would have to be postponed, that she would need stints placed in or near her heart and that she had major heart issues that have been overlooked.
However, all of the tests came back normal... boring.
No blockages, no stints, NOTHING.
They feel it was maybe some plaque that had broken loose, got stuck, and passed through. They're not really sure, because nothing showed up in the tests, but they feel there was a blockage at some point that passed.
We thought maybe the stress on her body from the tumor had contributed to her heart attack.
Either way, they admitted her for the night. She will be in the hospital until tomorrow.
At this point, we were told no stints are necessary, no heart surgery, Asprin for medication as she can't be on any blood thinners, and her surgery is still on for Friday.
She's a little cranky - understandably, tired and really ready to go home.
We could really use your prayers at this time. We are hoping for no more hiccups before her tumor surgery. Please pray for a smooth week. Please pray for healing and peace for her.
Please pray that my dad continues to be her rock. Please also pray that he is able to balance this situation, his full time job, the added responsibilities at home - and that he is blessed with the help that he needs right when he needs it.
I thank you for your thoughts and prayers sincerely - we couldn't get through this without them.
This week will be crazy, long, calm, short, whatever... it will just be. Friday is such a big day - we just want to get her to that point. Then we will hopefully have more answers, and hopefully have more of an understanding of what we're dealing with.
I'll keep you posted. And I'll put this post up a couple of times so that everyone who needs or wants to see it can - no matter what time of day it is.
Till next time...
But something happened.
I got a phone call from my dad around 9:30 in the morning.
Mom (Dianne) had a heart attack this morning.
My knees almost buckled as he proceeded to tell me the few details he could muster. He said they were still in the ER, and he didn't have many answers yet.
I immediately made arrangements for the girls to head to their Bumpa & Gwi Gwi's for a few hours. I called both of my brothers to let them know what had happened, and we left for the hospital.
This time seemed different. My dad seemed a little more "out of it", like he needed me.
When we got to the hospital, I gave hugs and surveyed her well-being. She seemed ok. She was unable to move, they were making her lie still until they determined it was okay for her to move or sit up.
I started asking questions. This is what happened:
Last night she had been suffering from some pretty severe joint pain. Severe enough that it brought her to tears. She took some pain meds and went to bed. When she woke this morning, her knees were still in a lot of pain.
They were drinking coffee this morning and throwing the frisbee for the dog. Suddenly, Mom said that her chest was starting to hurt. It got to the point that Dad felt the need to have her checked out by an EMT, so he called their neighbor, who is a firefighter for their city. When he didn't answer, dad left to go over to his house. As he walked out the front door, his neighbor was also, coming toward dad's house. Dad explained what was going on, and the neighbor immediately called it in as a Priority 1.
When the EMT crew showed up, they checked her out and determined she needed to be taken to the hospital. They put her in the ambulance, my dad followed, and off they were.
She had just had an EKG this past Tuesday in preparation for her tumor surgery, and was completely cleared for surgery.
But on the way to hospital, she went into v-tach (Ventricular tachycardia - rapid heartbeat) and had to be shocked.
When they got to the hospital, she had many tests. Of course, my dad was swift about letting them know about her brain tumor, and the upcoming surgery. That obviously changed their course of treatment for the heart attack.
Initially, they were thinking her brain surgery would have to be postponed, that she would need stints placed in or near her heart and that she had major heart issues that have been overlooked.
However, all of the tests came back normal... boring.
No blockages, no stints, NOTHING.
They feel it was maybe some plaque that had broken loose, got stuck, and passed through. They're not really sure, because nothing showed up in the tests, but they feel there was a blockage at some point that passed.
We thought maybe the stress on her body from the tumor had contributed to her heart attack.
Either way, they admitted her for the night. She will be in the hospital until tomorrow.
At this point, we were told no stints are necessary, no heart surgery, Asprin for medication as she can't be on any blood thinners, and her surgery is still on for Friday.
She's a little cranky - understandably, tired and really ready to go home.
We could really use your prayers at this time. We are hoping for no more hiccups before her tumor surgery. Please pray for a smooth week. Please pray for healing and peace for her.
Please pray that my dad continues to be her rock. Please also pray that he is able to balance this situation, his full time job, the added responsibilities at home - and that he is blessed with the help that he needs right when he needs it.
I thank you for your thoughts and prayers sincerely - we couldn't get through this without them.
This week will be crazy, long, calm, short, whatever... it will just be. Friday is such a big day - we just want to get her to that point. Then we will hopefully have more answers, and hopefully have more of an understanding of what we're dealing with.
I'll keep you posted. And I'll put this post up a couple of times so that everyone who needs or wants to see it can - no matter what time of day it is.
Till next time...
Friday, May 3, 2013
Hope Renewed
Thursday May 2, 2013
I got a rare early morning phone call today. Mom called "just to hear my sweet voice". It was 7:20 am. Of course I answered the phone thinking something was wrong.
But nothing was wrong.
She was sitting outside, playing frisbee with their dog, watching the sun come up, and thinking... Just thinking.
She didn't want to miss the moment to tell me how much she loves me. And she wanted to tell me how proud of me she is for coming as far as I have recently.
The call got emotional at one point, but I tried to divert. I knew she had an important appointment this morning with a potential Neurosurgeon that would handle her case. I wanted to keep her spirits up.
She and Dad went to Southfield, MI today to meet with a Neurosurgeon, Dr. Ryan Barrett.
They. Love. Him.
A-typical of Neurosurgeons, he had a great bedisde manner, he was comforting, supportive, positive and patient. I say a-typical because Neurosurgeons are brainiacs. Perfectionists. Egotistical. Dry. Unemotional.
Not this guy.
Her surgery is scheduled for Friday May 24th in Novi, MI at Providence Park Hospital. She will spend 2-3 days there post-op. They were told there is little pain with this surgery post-op as well. They will shave her hair just in the spot of the incision. He will remove a piece of the skull, and remove what he can of the tumor.
They got some answers today FINALLY!
They were told for sure it is cancer. We still don't know what type of cancer. This "thing" now has a name... Something, something, something Blastoma. You might laugh, but I am getting this information from my dad, who is riding this roller coaster blindly. I'm sure that the overwhelming amount of information they received was incredible. The only word he remembered was Blastoma.
The cancer does not appear to have metastasised. It appears to be primary. I learned what this means just today. To be primary means (I think) that this "tumor" is singular. This is the one source of cancer in her body. There isn't another "primary" cell or tumor that has grown to this spot. The surgeon did agree that this tumor has been there for some time.
Before he can tell the stage of cancer, or the type, he has to get into her brain. He needs to biopsy. There's obviously only one way to biopsy a tumor in the brain (at least in this case)... and that's the surgery.
Dr. Barrett showed them the crucial parts of the brain that you don't want a tumor (as if you could choose), and where her tumor is is not there. He explained that it is in a place that is fairly easy to get to. Although hers is not in the "crucial" part of the brain, it is still inside her brain, not on it. So the surgery will be tricky.
They feel they can remove "most of it". Chemo and radiation are a sure thing after the surgery and that can be done by Oncology in Grand Rapids.
They were told that the outlook "looks good".
The deficits after the surgery are unknown. She may be left with the deficits she has now - forgetfulness, loss of balance, disorientation, and some lack of eyesight / focus. She may be left worse off. It is unsure and too soon to tell. So many things are unknown at this point. But in the spirit of "one step at a time", at least now we have a surgeon that we trust, and is seemingly optimistic.
I received a message today from Di's best friend of 40-some years. She lives on the East side of the state, and met with them before the appointment. The night before the appointment, a story aired on their local news about this particular surgeon. Read the story here: http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/cancer-treatment-saves-local-womans-life
It is the story of a woman who was treated by Dr. Barrett and "he saved her life". She is "doing great and full of life again". Mom's friend saw this as a sign. And our hope is renewed every time we see these signs!
I was speaking with my dad this evening, and he expressed how amazing the outpouring of love and support has been. They are humbled by the phone calls, texts, emails, Facebook messages, cards... you name it! He was almost in tears as he expressed his gratitude for everything. So, thank you. As a team, as a family and as a community, we will carry them through this.
They were given the option to have the surgery as soon as next week. Mom said heck no! On May 11, they will be celebrating 23 years of marriage! Mom wants to wait the three weeks to give her some time to live and enjoy her family and friends. And they were told it's not an emergency. Obviously the sooner the better that we get that disease out of her, but a few weeks won't make much of a difference.
I will update with more information as it comes, but until her surgery I feel there won't be much more medical information to update. But I will write about how she is doing, her demeanor, and how she's getting along. Thank you for reading, and thank you for all of the support! Keep it coming - it's still going to be a long road!
I got a rare early morning phone call today. Mom called "just to hear my sweet voice". It was 7:20 am. Of course I answered the phone thinking something was wrong.
But nothing was wrong.
She was sitting outside, playing frisbee with their dog, watching the sun come up, and thinking... Just thinking.
She didn't want to miss the moment to tell me how much she loves me. And she wanted to tell me how proud of me she is for coming as far as I have recently.
The call got emotional at one point, but I tried to divert. I knew she had an important appointment this morning with a potential Neurosurgeon that would handle her case. I wanted to keep her spirits up.
She and Dad went to Southfield, MI today to meet with a Neurosurgeon, Dr. Ryan Barrett.
They. Love. Him.
A-typical of Neurosurgeons, he had a great bedisde manner, he was comforting, supportive, positive and patient. I say a-typical because Neurosurgeons are brainiacs. Perfectionists. Egotistical. Dry. Unemotional.
Not this guy.
Her surgery is scheduled for Friday May 24th in Novi, MI at Providence Park Hospital. She will spend 2-3 days there post-op. They were told there is little pain with this surgery post-op as well. They will shave her hair just in the spot of the incision. He will remove a piece of the skull, and remove what he can of the tumor.
They got some answers today FINALLY!
They were told for sure it is cancer. We still don't know what type of cancer. This "thing" now has a name... Something, something, something Blastoma. You might laugh, but I am getting this information from my dad, who is riding this roller coaster blindly. I'm sure that the overwhelming amount of information they received was incredible. The only word he remembered was Blastoma.
The cancer does not appear to have metastasised. It appears to be primary. I learned what this means just today. To be primary means (I think) that this "tumor" is singular. This is the one source of cancer in her body. There isn't another "primary" cell or tumor that has grown to this spot. The surgeon did agree that this tumor has been there for some time.
Before he can tell the stage of cancer, or the type, he has to get into her brain. He needs to biopsy. There's obviously only one way to biopsy a tumor in the brain (at least in this case)... and that's the surgery.
Dr. Barrett showed them the crucial parts of the brain that you don't want a tumor (as if you could choose), and where her tumor is is not there. He explained that it is in a place that is fairly easy to get to. Although hers is not in the "crucial" part of the brain, it is still inside her brain, not on it. So the surgery will be tricky.
They feel they can remove "most of it". Chemo and radiation are a sure thing after the surgery and that can be done by Oncology in Grand Rapids.
They were told that the outlook "looks good".
The deficits after the surgery are unknown. She may be left with the deficits she has now - forgetfulness, loss of balance, disorientation, and some lack of eyesight / focus. She may be left worse off. It is unsure and too soon to tell. So many things are unknown at this point. But in the spirit of "one step at a time", at least now we have a surgeon that we trust, and is seemingly optimistic.
I received a message today from Di's best friend of 40-some years. She lives on the East side of the state, and met with them before the appointment. The night before the appointment, a story aired on their local news about this particular surgeon. Read the story here: http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/cancer-treatment-saves-local-womans-life
It is the story of a woman who was treated by Dr. Barrett and "he saved her life". She is "doing great and full of life again". Mom's friend saw this as a sign. And our hope is renewed every time we see these signs!
I was speaking with my dad this evening, and he expressed how amazing the outpouring of love and support has been. They are humbled by the phone calls, texts, emails, Facebook messages, cards... you name it! He was almost in tears as he expressed his gratitude for everything. So, thank you. As a team, as a family and as a community, we will carry them through this.
They were given the option to have the surgery as soon as next week. Mom said heck no! On May 11, they will be celebrating 23 years of marriage! Mom wants to wait the three weeks to give her some time to live and enjoy her family and friends. And they were told it's not an emergency. Obviously the sooner the better that we get that disease out of her, but a few weeks won't make much of a difference.
I will update with more information as it comes, but until her surgery I feel there won't be much more medical information to update. But I will write about how she is doing, her demeanor, and how she's getting along. Thank you for reading, and thank you for all of the support! Keep it coming - it's still going to be a long road!
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
It's The Calm
I talked to Mom today. She seemed in good spirits. When I called she had some visitors that were just leaving. She told me that they were all having a laugh at her expense because she keeps doing "stupid stuff", as she put it. She said she keeps going into the wrong room of the house. She tells stories about people she's talked to and doesn't remember if she was face to face or on the phone with them. She can't type, she can't text, she can't spell. She can't be alone.
She didn't once mention dying. That's an improvement from when she first received the news.
It was nice to hear her laughing. Even if it was at her own expense.
Tomorrow she and Dad have an appointment with a Neurosurgeon. I don't know his name, but I know that they are in the process of making sure they have the right Neurosurgeon before they proceed. They've already seen one, and they didn't feel right. They have a pretty good idea about the one they're seeing tomorrow, so hopefully we will have some more answers after that.
We still don't know what kind of cancer it is, or, as my dad put it, "if this 'thing' has a name". We don't have a prognosis; we are just clinging to hope & faith at this early point in the game.
One thing mom said tonight was how much better she feels after getting so much rest. She has been napping at her leisure, and getting pretty good sleep at night. She feels more clarity than just a few days ago.
As far as Dad is concerned... well, he's just... Dad. Being the rock for her, all the while trying to be the communicator to all of the concerned friends and family. He's juggling a full time job, the normal household duties, phone calls, arrangements, appointments, dates, times, and everything else that's just "day-to-day". I'll tell you what, I don't know how he does it. He is seemingly juggling everything quite well, but asking for help when it gets to be too much.
We are taking things one day at a time. One appointment at a time. One phone call at a time. One moment at a time. It helps no one if we are all so overwhelmed and fall apart. I'm trying to keep the information I have to give at bay, so as not to overload him. I sent him 2 emails and one text today with names of highly recommended Neurosurgeons and Oncologists.
The response I got back?
"I'm starting to feel information overload".
My response?
"Ok".
My bad. Sometimes I get so eager to help, as I guess most people would, that I forget what else he has on his plate.
Once she gets established with a Neurosurgeon, and we set a date for surgery, or whatever comes next, then we can move on to the next task.
This is all new to all of us. We are all just learning how to deal with something of this magnitude. We have no idea what's around the next corner, but even though we don't know what to expect, we'll still be ready to face it. What other choice is there?
I feel this is the calm before the storm. And things are pretty chaotic right now. Anyone who's been through this exact thing knows from their own experience what lies ahead. Of course, every case is different, but the process is similar.
I cannot put into words the meaning of all of the prayers and thoughtful words of support from everyone - at least everyone in my world. I cannot imagine the outpouring in their world. Thank you so much for reading, passing the word along, praying, making meals, calling, checking in... you name it. THANK YOU.
I will hopefully have an update tomorrow with the outcome of their appointment.
Hopefully we can prepare for the next step.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Toothless Wonder (95/366)
Well, not really yet. But Hannah did finally lose the other bottom tooth...
And like the other one, she was at her Bumpa & Gwi Gwi's ~
I missed it.
Again.
I got a text message at 2:00 on Saturday afternoon with Hannah's picture. The text read, "Hey Mama, it's Hannah. Notice anything missing?"
I was immediately bummed and excited for her - all at the same time.
I guess she was just wiggling, playing with it and it just popped out.
So from now on, when my kids have loose teeth, they're going to Bumpa & Gwi Gwi's. By the end of the weekend, those teeth will be out for sure!
And like the other one, she was at her Bumpa & Gwi Gwi's ~
I missed it.
Again.
I got a text message at 2:00 on Saturday afternoon with Hannah's picture. The text read, "Hey Mama, it's Hannah. Notice anything missing?"
I was immediately bummed and excited for her - all at the same time.
I guess she was just wiggling, playing with it and it just popped out.
So from now on, when my kids have loose teeth, they're going to Bumpa & Gwi Gwi's. By the end of the weekend, those teeth will be out for sure!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Lonely (94/366)
So this JUST happened... and I had to write it down and share it.
Ava's in the tub and she ready to get out. So I go over, wash her up and wrap her in the bath towel.
She says, "Pick me up". I love cradling a freshly washed baby.
As we're leaving the bathroom to go to her bedroom for jammies, I say, "I just love my baby girl. Are you my baby girl?"
She says, "Yes - with a big cheesy grin."
Then she proceeds with, "Mommy, when I was on the vroom vroom (quad), I was far away from home. I was far away. Far, far away."
As we sit on her bed, me still cradling her, I respond with, "Yes, you were, but I was right here waiting for you to get home!"
Her comback, "I know Mommy. You never weave (leave) me. But when I was on the vroom vroom I was far, far away and I was wonewy (lonely)."
She has the most serious look in her eyes, but I know she is making this up as she goes.
I looked at her and we both busted out laughing!!! I told her she was such a goof, to which she replied, "I am not a goof, Mama! I am Ava Gracie!"
To which I replied with how so very much I love her.
Oh my gosh. She stole my heart again!
Ava's in the tub and she ready to get out. So I go over, wash her up and wrap her in the bath towel.
She says, "Pick me up". I love cradling a freshly washed baby.
As we're leaving the bathroom to go to her bedroom for jammies, I say, "I just love my baby girl. Are you my baby girl?"
She says, "Yes - with a big cheesy grin."
Then she proceeds with, "Mommy, when I was on the vroom vroom (quad), I was far away from home. I was far away. Far, far away."
As we sit on her bed, me still cradling her, I respond with, "Yes, you were, but I was right here waiting for you to get home!"
Her comback, "I know Mommy. You never weave (leave) me. But when I was on the vroom vroom I was far, far away and I was wonewy (lonely)."
She has the most serious look in her eyes, but I know she is making this up as she goes.
I looked at her and we both busted out laughing!!! I told her she was such a goof, to which she replied, "I am not a goof, Mama! I am Ava Gracie!"
To which I replied with how so very much I love her.
Oh my gosh. She stole my heart again!
A Brother's Love (93/366)
Two weeks ago, my older brother celebrated his birthday. On this day, I wished him a very happy day. He is so blessed in so many ways - and he returns those blessings on other people.
I've often thought about all he and I have been through over the years. Yes, I have two brothers, but my little brother's birthday isn't until August, so I'll save that post for, well, August!
My older brother and I are 3 years apart. Almost to the day.
I remember as a middle-schooler, he was a Freshman in High School and he always had the coolest clothes. Of course, he had a job to buy those clothes with. He delivered pizza with my mom's Geo Tracker - I still cannot forget the smell when we got into the car after he had been delivering pizzas for 6 hours the night before. Ewww!
Anyway, back to the clothes - he had this one pair of Guess jeans. I LOVED those jeans. At the time I was going through a "grungy" phase, so it seemed appropriate that I would wear his jeans that were a little too big for me, and had started ripping out in the knees. Every chance I got to put those jeans on I did. I'd wait until they were laying in the dirty laundry pile and wear them for days. When he finally realized they weren't clean and put back in his dresser, he figured out really quickly where they were. One day after school, he busted me! He got so mad and yelled, "Kris! If you don't take those jeans off right now I'll rip them off of you!" He got his jeans back... sometimes.
Then came High School for me. I want to say I was in 9th or 10th grade, which would make him either a senior, or just out of school. He was still delivering pizzas. And he had met a girl at work that he was CRAZY about! I mean NUTSO! But she had a boyfriend. Like a very long time boyfriend. As I was sitting in my room late on school nights, listening to music, he would come in to my room after he got out of work and ask me what he should do about this girl that had a boyfriend that he loved so much. All on his own, he put flowers on her car (she thanked her boyfriend for those... they weren't from him :\), he made mixed tapes for her (actually I did - he just took the credit), and eventually bought her a promise ring when she finally agreed to go on a date with him. Of course, she and her boyfriend had broken up by this point, and my brother seized the moment. I'm pretty sure he gave her that promise ring before they were even "official". I told him he was crazy and rushing things. He didn't listen.
He proposed to her on Bozeman Mountain in Montana on a vacation they took with some of their friends. She had bought brand new, not broken in hiking boots before the trip and was crippled with blisters. When he asked her to walk just feet from where she was resting (to a more scenic view), she yelled at him! They have this on video tape. When she finally conceded (he's stubborn and didn't give up), he got down on one knee and proposed. She cried, he cried, their friends cried - we cried when we saw the video.
This fall marks their 12th wedding anniversary. They have 3 year old twin daughters, and another miracle baby on the way. He is an amazing daddy and husband (still no lack of stubbornness).
Through the years, we've been in different places - and we've grown apart some. But not in a bad way. We just both have our own lives and very busy schedules. He is good friends with my husband and the four of us (before kids) had some AMAZINGLY FUN times together.
As you know, I didn't grow up with a sister. As life goes on, it doesn't really matter. I like my brothers. They're all I know. And I know that now, in (almost) mid-life, there's no distance or circumstance that can keep us from being there for each other in the most important, troubling, special, happy, sad or what may you times.
Happy Birthday Old Man Brother! I hope it was happy, and blessed. You are such a blessing to so many, including your little sister! Thanks for everything - I love you.
I've often thought about all he and I have been through over the years. Yes, I have two brothers, but my little brother's birthday isn't until August, so I'll save that post for, well, August!
My older brother and I are 3 years apart. Almost to the day.
I remember as a middle-schooler, he was a Freshman in High School and he always had the coolest clothes. Of course, he had a job to buy those clothes with. He delivered pizza with my mom's Geo Tracker - I still cannot forget the smell when we got into the car after he had been delivering pizzas for 6 hours the night before. Ewww!
Anyway, back to the clothes - he had this one pair of Guess jeans. I LOVED those jeans. At the time I was going through a "grungy" phase, so it seemed appropriate that I would wear his jeans that were a little too big for me, and had started ripping out in the knees. Every chance I got to put those jeans on I did. I'd wait until they were laying in the dirty laundry pile and wear them for days. When he finally realized they weren't clean and put back in his dresser, he figured out really quickly where they were. One day after school, he busted me! He got so mad and yelled, "Kris! If you don't take those jeans off right now I'll rip them off of you!" He got his jeans back... sometimes.
Then came High School for me. I want to say I was in 9th or 10th grade, which would make him either a senior, or just out of school. He was still delivering pizzas. And he had met a girl at work that he was CRAZY about! I mean NUTSO! But she had a boyfriend. Like a very long time boyfriend. As I was sitting in my room late on school nights, listening to music, he would come in to my room after he got out of work and ask me what he should do about this girl that had a boyfriend that he loved so much. All on his own, he put flowers on her car (she thanked her boyfriend for those... they weren't from him :\), he made mixed tapes for her (actually I did - he just took the credit), and eventually bought her a promise ring when she finally agreed to go on a date with him. Of course, she and her boyfriend had broken up by this point, and my brother seized the moment. I'm pretty sure he gave her that promise ring before they were even "official". I told him he was crazy and rushing things. He didn't listen.
He proposed to her on Bozeman Mountain in Montana on a vacation they took with some of their friends. She had bought brand new, not broken in hiking boots before the trip and was crippled with blisters. When he asked her to walk just feet from where she was resting (to a more scenic view), she yelled at him! They have this on video tape. When she finally conceded (he's stubborn and didn't give up), he got down on one knee and proposed. She cried, he cried, their friends cried - we cried when we saw the video.
This fall marks their 12th wedding anniversary. They have 3 year old twin daughters, and another miracle baby on the way. He is an amazing daddy and husband (still no lack of stubbornness).
Through the years, we've been in different places - and we've grown apart some. But not in a bad way. We just both have our own lives and very busy schedules. He is good friends with my husband and the four of us (before kids) had some AMAZINGLY FUN times together.
As you know, I didn't grow up with a sister. As life goes on, it doesn't really matter. I like my brothers. They're all I know. And I know that now, in (almost) mid-life, there's no distance or circumstance that can keep us from being there for each other in the most important, troubling, special, happy, sad or what may you times.
Happy Birthday Old Man Brother! I hope it was happy, and blessed. You are such a blessing to so many, including your little sister! Thanks for everything - I love you.
A Brief Hiatus (92/366)
Tuesday April 17, 2012
I realize it has been almost 2 weeks since I blogged last. A lot has been going on here and I haven't had the time or the energy to blog. Thus, my goal of blogging every day for a year has failed.
That's a really tall order.
Nonetheless, I thought I could do it.
I'm not going to be too terribly hard on myself for not making it... I can try again. I will keep blogging when I have the time. I may pick back up and publish some of the things I have written while I was taking a break, but I'll need to think about that. Thank you for reading...
There are a lot of issues being talked about right now - one of them very near and dear to my heart ~
Stay-at-home-moms and their value in this world.
I think this is a great debate. I have been on both sides of the table and currently I am the stay-at-home variety.
But not by choice. Let me explain:
Before I had kids, my heart long desired to be a stay-at-home mom. After I had my first daughter, the very first night, I knew I could never do it. So, I was happy working 40-50 hours a week, the daycare we chose for the girls was top-notch and absolutely amazing (no, not the Taj Mahal, but two sweet little old ladies who had been in childcare their whole lives, and were MIRACLE WORKERS with the patience of Job ~ they were SO good with my "special" colicky babies).
3 years ago, I quit my job (that I LOVED) of 8 years to pursue an opportunity with a different company (who, in fact, pursued me). Four months into that new job, I found out I was pregnant with my second baby. I was on part time disability for most of the pregnancy, and suffered severe postpartum depression after she was born, and I was off work for 4 months. When I returned to work, I was rejuvenated, energized and rocking my job. 6 weeks after my return to work, I was called in to the boss' office on a Wednesday morning at 10:30 am. I was told that they were shrinking their sales force and enlarging their territories, so I was out. I cried, my manager cried, and the HR Manager that was there cried. It was a hard day. I was put in a position without choice, still recovering from PPD, and it. was. tough. And that's putting it mildly.
Nonetheless, I struck out, eager to find new work. In the late summer/fall of 2009, this was NOT an easy task. The unemployment rate was sky high, and there were hundreds of thousands of people in my same boat. I was applying for all kinds of work - but knowing that I needed a certain income to cover daycare costs, and replace the company vehicle and gas that I had just lost. I was repeatedly turned down. My resume matched some of those job descriptions to a T, yet they hired a "candidate whose qualifications more closely match the position". So, I took this as sign.
Eventually I found my way at home. We had playdates, I struggled to juggle the housework, the bills, the groceries, doctor appointments, dentist appointments, the errands, the kids ~ sick and healthy, myself ~ sick and healthy, grandparents, evening events, sports, dance, school, friends, family and everything in-between. Remember, I didn't have a husband at home during the week - it was just me and the girls. All day. Every day. I did, however, have a TON of help from my parents, my in-laws who live close, my friends (with and without kids) - I knew that whatever I needed I just had to ask for it. And I did.
Yet I still searched for work. To no avail. I was told on numerous occasions how blessed I was to be able to stay at home and what an incredible value that would add to my girls' lives. I was told how I could never get this time back, never ever ever and how absolutely precious it was. I kept thinking, "Are they 10 & 13 yet, or 18 & 15? Time! Would 'ja hurry up?!"
Here I am, 3 years later, and I'm still not adjusted. I often wonder how I ever did it. Take all of those "duties" listed above "the housework, the bills, the groceries, doctor appointments, dentist appointments, the errands, the kids ~ sick and healthy, myself ~ sick and healthy, grandparents, evening events, sports, dance, school, friends, family and everything in-between" and add 40-50 hours of work to it. Sure, some things suffered while I was working, and others suffer while I am at home.
Like me.
I don't wear makeup everyday, I don't do my hair everyday. No, I don't stay in my pajamas - I actually shower and get dressed, but I don't wear heels anymore, or black dress pants and blouses. While I was working, the housework suffered (a little). It's a give and take. It's about priorities.
During neither phase of my life ~ working or not ~ have my kids suffered. They were in a wonderful daycare with caregivers that loved them as if they were their own. And at home, they're with their Mama. And they looooooove their Mama. So so very much. And they tell me every day just how much. Sometimes they'll even tell me that they don't, just so I'll tell them that I do, and how much, and we laugh and giggle and tickle until we hug and kiss. Sometimes the girls argue over who loves me the most.
I'm okay with that.
I don't want to get into the debate over which is better - stay at home moms or working moms. I don't think it matters. The commonality that those two titles have is the word "MOM". Some of us don't have a choice but to work, because our household requires the income. Some of us don't have the choice but to be at home, because the economy is not kind. Others choose to work, and are perfectly happy with daycare or family members helping out with childcare. And I don't think our kids are any worse or better off for that. Some women choose to stay at home and they base their budgets and lifestyles around that choice. I don't think our kids are any worse or better off for that choice either.
You can look at statistics all day long. It doesn't really matter, does it? If we, as moms, put forth our best effort every minute of every day (ok, yes, sometimes I take breaks too) whether we're working or at home, won't our kids turn out however they're going to turn out? I'm not a worse mom because I'm at home everyday with my girls. I wasn't a better mom when I was working full time.
I am the same mom that I have been since my daughters we born. The same.
The same loving, caring, disciplining, nurturing and amazingly protective mom. It is up to me to find the best care for them ~ whether it's me or someone else doing the "caring". It's up to me, as their parent ~ working or not ~ to ensure a proper upbringing for them.
I've been on both sides. There are positives and negatives on both sides. My neighbor's situation is different than mine. My girlfriend's lives are different than mine. Everyone has their own unique situation and they base their decision (whether it's their choice or not, in my case) on the solution that's best for their family.
No one should judge that choice. We should appreciate one another for where we are, and who we are.
We should celebrate each other as mothers.
I realize it has been almost 2 weeks since I blogged last. A lot has been going on here and I haven't had the time or the energy to blog. Thus, my goal of blogging every day for a year has failed.
That's a really tall order.
Nonetheless, I thought I could do it.
I'm not going to be too terribly hard on myself for not making it... I can try again. I will keep blogging when I have the time. I may pick back up and publish some of the things I have written while I was taking a break, but I'll need to think about that. Thank you for reading...
There are a lot of issues being talked about right now - one of them very near and dear to my heart ~
Stay-at-home-moms and their value in this world.
I think this is a great debate. I have been on both sides of the table and currently I am the stay-at-home variety.
But not by choice. Let me explain:
Before I had kids, my heart long desired to be a stay-at-home mom. After I had my first daughter, the very first night, I knew I could never do it. So, I was happy working 40-50 hours a week, the daycare we chose for the girls was top-notch and absolutely amazing (no, not the Taj Mahal, but two sweet little old ladies who had been in childcare their whole lives, and were MIRACLE WORKERS with the patience of Job ~ they were SO good with my "special" colicky babies).
3 years ago, I quit my job (that I LOVED) of 8 years to pursue an opportunity with a different company (who, in fact, pursued me). Four months into that new job, I found out I was pregnant with my second baby. I was on part time disability for most of the pregnancy, and suffered severe postpartum depression after she was born, and I was off work for 4 months. When I returned to work, I was rejuvenated, energized and rocking my job. 6 weeks after my return to work, I was called in to the boss' office on a Wednesday morning at 10:30 am. I was told that they were shrinking their sales force and enlarging their territories, so I was out. I cried, my manager cried, and the HR Manager that was there cried. It was a hard day. I was put in a position without choice, still recovering from PPD, and it. was. tough. And that's putting it mildly.
Nonetheless, I struck out, eager to find new work. In the late summer/fall of 2009, this was NOT an easy task. The unemployment rate was sky high, and there were hundreds of thousands of people in my same boat. I was applying for all kinds of work - but knowing that I needed a certain income to cover daycare costs, and replace the company vehicle and gas that I had just lost. I was repeatedly turned down. My resume matched some of those job descriptions to a T, yet they hired a "candidate whose qualifications more closely match the position". So, I took this as sign.
Eventually I found my way at home. We had playdates, I struggled to juggle the housework, the bills, the groceries, doctor appointments, dentist appointments, the errands, the kids ~ sick and healthy, myself ~ sick and healthy, grandparents, evening events, sports, dance, school, friends, family and everything in-between. Remember, I didn't have a husband at home during the week - it was just me and the girls. All day. Every day. I did, however, have a TON of help from my parents, my in-laws who live close, my friends (with and without kids) - I knew that whatever I needed I just had to ask for it. And I did.
Yet I still searched for work. To no avail. I was told on numerous occasions how blessed I was to be able to stay at home and what an incredible value that would add to my girls' lives. I was told how I could never get this time back, never ever ever and how absolutely precious it was. I kept thinking, "Are they 10 & 13 yet, or 18 & 15? Time! Would 'ja hurry up?!"
Here I am, 3 years later, and I'm still not adjusted. I often wonder how I ever did it. Take all of those "duties" listed above "the housework, the bills, the groceries, doctor appointments, dentist appointments, the errands, the kids ~ sick and healthy, myself ~ sick and healthy, grandparents, evening events, sports, dance, school, friends, family and everything in-between" and add 40-50 hours of work to it. Sure, some things suffered while I was working, and others suffer while I am at home.
Like me.
I don't wear makeup everyday, I don't do my hair everyday. No, I don't stay in my pajamas - I actually shower and get dressed, but I don't wear heels anymore, or black dress pants and blouses. While I was working, the housework suffered (a little). It's a give and take. It's about priorities.
During neither phase of my life ~ working or not ~ have my kids suffered. They were in a wonderful daycare with caregivers that loved them as if they were their own. And at home, they're with their Mama. And they looooooove their Mama. So so very much. And they tell me every day just how much. Sometimes they'll even tell me that they don't, just so I'll tell them that I do, and how much, and we laugh and giggle and tickle until we hug and kiss. Sometimes the girls argue over who loves me the most.
I'm okay with that.
I don't want to get into the debate over which is better - stay at home moms or working moms. I don't think it matters. The commonality that those two titles have is the word "MOM". Some of us don't have a choice but to work, because our household requires the income. Some of us don't have the choice but to be at home, because the economy is not kind. Others choose to work, and are perfectly happy with daycare or family members helping out with childcare. And I don't think our kids are any worse or better off for that. Some women choose to stay at home and they base their budgets and lifestyles around that choice. I don't think our kids are any worse or better off for that choice either.
You can look at statistics all day long. It doesn't really matter, does it? If we, as moms, put forth our best effort every minute of every day (ok, yes, sometimes I take breaks too) whether we're working or at home, won't our kids turn out however they're going to turn out? I'm not a worse mom because I'm at home everyday with my girls. I wasn't a better mom when I was working full time.
I am the same mom that I have been since my daughters we born. The same.
The same loving, caring, disciplining, nurturing and amazingly protective mom. It is up to me to find the best care for them ~ whether it's me or someone else doing the "caring". It's up to me, as their parent ~ working or not ~ to ensure a proper upbringing for them.
I've been on both sides. There are positives and negatives on both sides. My neighbor's situation is different than mine. My girlfriend's lives are different than mine. Everyone has their own unique situation and they base their decision (whether it's their choice or not, in my case) on the solution that's best for their family.
No one should judge that choice. We should appreciate one another for where we are, and who we are.
We should celebrate each other as mothers.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Losing Everything (91/366)
Tuesday April 3, 2012
What's important in life is different with each person you ask. In the scheme of life, it changes as the years pass. From your family, to your personal goals, to your spouse, to your house, to your kids and on, it will change.
It also changes as the circumstances in life change.
An illness, big health care bills, loss of a spouse or job, or just plain 'ol big life changes - these can all affect how we view what's important.
Lately, more & more American families have had to review what is most important in their lives. From the horrific storms in the Midwest and South, to the crumbling economy, many are facing the loss of... everything.
While we experience these tragedies in life, we take stock of what we have left, and what we are to do with what's left.
We look at our current, dire situation and think of where we were just 24 hours, two weeks or 2 years ago and it. is. crushing. No matter how we got to where we are now, we're here, and there's no other option but to go on.
How we handle loss differs from person to person as well. Many choose to pray for answers, and hope. Others can be quite destructive in their grief, compounding the most already devastating situation. No matter how we deal with it, the situation still exists, and we must go through it.
Getting through times like these in life is much easier said than done. We cannot do it alone. We need other people to lean on, to give advice, to listen. We need others with certain skills based on their own life experiences, we need them to be non-judgemental and love us - no matter where we are, or how we got there. It's hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel... I've been there with my own experiences, and at times it seemed impossible.
Sometimes, just a smile, a nice gesture, an understanding nod, a phone call just to say "Hi" are all that are needed to brighten someone's day. We never know what our neighbor, our parents, our co-worker or brother or sister are going through. We don't need to know details. We don't need to know personal things that some like to keep private. We need to remember that in all times in life, someone you meet everyday is looking at the sure fact that they are going to lose everything.
Those gestures and smiles will help to remind them that everything really isn't everything. Yeah, we've all heard, "At least you have your health," or "At least you still have your family." While these may seem cliche at the time they're said, it's true. We've all heard the saying that when God closes one door, He opens another. If we all look back on our lives, there have been tough times for all of us that seemed insurmountable. Somehow we made it through and our lives took a turn that brought us to where we are today. Do you remember the shoulder you cried on? Do you remember the person who sat on the phone with you, pumping you full of hope and promise? Do you remember the bible verses that gave you renewed faith?
These are the things we need to pass on to others in their time of need. Sometimes they ask for help, but not everyone is comfortable doing so. Sometimes we just need to stop being so focused on our own lives (especially when things are good) and look to others and see the signs. Make gestures that aren't provoked by request. Send a note, snail mail, to someone telling them you're thinking about them. Call them, even if you have to leave a voice mail, and don't expect a call back. Answer the phone when they do call, and set aside time to just listen.
There are so many people right now that are in the midst of losing everything. If you're reading this and you're one of them, just know that there is a dry side to that lake that's drowning you right now. There's hope for your future. There are better things just waiting for you to grab.
It's life.
It happens.
Just hang on to what you do have (it's NOT nothing - each one of us has something left) and know that you aren't losing everything. Try to focus on what your everything is right now.
Today I'm thankful that I've learned how to see what I have left - to see the blessing through tragedy. Though not always easy, I've come a long way in not wallowing in my sorrows.
Here are lyrics to a song I want you to read. I have seen these lyrics posted SO many times recently. Just read them, pray them and feel them.
We pray for blessings
What's important in life is different with each person you ask. In the scheme of life, it changes as the years pass. From your family, to your personal goals, to your spouse, to your house, to your kids and on, it will change.
It also changes as the circumstances in life change.
An illness, big health care bills, loss of a spouse or job, or just plain 'ol big life changes - these can all affect how we view what's important.
Lately, more & more American families have had to review what is most important in their lives. From the horrific storms in the Midwest and South, to the crumbling economy, many are facing the loss of... everything.
While we experience these tragedies in life, we take stock of what we have left, and what we are to do with what's left.
We look at our current, dire situation and think of where we were just 24 hours, two weeks or 2 years ago and it. is. crushing. No matter how we got to where we are now, we're here, and there's no other option but to go on.
How we handle loss differs from person to person as well. Many choose to pray for answers, and hope. Others can be quite destructive in their grief, compounding the most already devastating situation. No matter how we deal with it, the situation still exists, and we must go through it.
Getting through times like these in life is much easier said than done. We cannot do it alone. We need other people to lean on, to give advice, to listen. We need others with certain skills based on their own life experiences, we need them to be non-judgemental and love us - no matter where we are, or how we got there. It's hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel... I've been there with my own experiences, and at times it seemed impossible.
Sometimes, just a smile, a nice gesture, an understanding nod, a phone call just to say "Hi" are all that are needed to brighten someone's day. We never know what our neighbor, our parents, our co-worker or brother or sister are going through. We don't need to know details. We don't need to know personal things that some like to keep private. We need to remember that in all times in life, someone you meet everyday is looking at the sure fact that they are going to lose everything.
Those gestures and smiles will help to remind them that everything really isn't everything. Yeah, we've all heard, "At least you have your health," or "At least you still have your family." While these may seem cliche at the time they're said, it's true. We've all heard the saying that when God closes one door, He opens another. If we all look back on our lives, there have been tough times for all of us that seemed insurmountable. Somehow we made it through and our lives took a turn that brought us to where we are today. Do you remember the shoulder you cried on? Do you remember the person who sat on the phone with you, pumping you full of hope and promise? Do you remember the bible verses that gave you renewed faith?
These are the things we need to pass on to others in their time of need. Sometimes they ask for help, but not everyone is comfortable doing so. Sometimes we just need to stop being so focused on our own lives (especially when things are good) and look to others and see the signs. Make gestures that aren't provoked by request. Send a note, snail mail, to someone telling them you're thinking about them. Call them, even if you have to leave a voice mail, and don't expect a call back. Answer the phone when they do call, and set aside time to just listen.
There are so many people right now that are in the midst of losing everything. If you're reading this and you're one of them, just know that there is a dry side to that lake that's drowning you right now. There's hope for your future. There are better things just waiting for you to grab.
It's life.
It happens.
Just hang on to what you do have (it's NOT nothing - each one of us has something left) and know that you aren't losing everything. Try to focus on what your everything is right now.
Today I'm thankful that I've learned how to see what I have left - to see the blessing through tragedy. Though not always easy, I've come a long way in not wallowing in my sorrows.
Here are lyrics to a song I want you to read. I have seen these lyrics posted SO many times recently. Just read them, pray them and feel them.
We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home
It's not our home
'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Skittles For Lunch (86/366)
Thursday March 29, 2012
I've never professed to be a perfect mom - in fact, I'm super-far from it!
Some days I do my best...
Others, I am a wee bit of a slacker.
Like today.
We got up this morning and got ready for Hannah to head to school. When she got on the bus (an accident-free journey today, unlike yesterday), I sat down to inhale a cup of coffee or two.
Ava and I headed out to "The Car Store", our local bodyshop for a long overdue oil change.
An hour later, we were headed to the grocery store.
Another hour later, we were headed home. I could've gone for McDonald's for lunch, but Pink Slime isn't on the menu today.
I figured we would make sandwiches or something at home before I put Ava down for her nap.
While my phone wouldn't stop ringing, I ended up being in one conversation or another for over an hour. At this time, it was 12:30.
The entire time I was yacking away on the phone, Ava was happily seated on the living room floor eating a bag of Skittles that I had bought her in the grocery checkout lane to keep her content - she had been getting restless in the store as her lunch and naptimes were drawing ever near.
I realized at this point I had 3 hours until we needed to leave to pick Hannah up and head to dance class.
"If I feed her lunch now," I thought, "It will be at least an hour before she's done eating, and I have to wake her by 3 so we can leave by 3:30..."
So I dropped the gauntlet.
And for the next 10 minutes I tried convincing her that naps were good, that I hate taking naps too, that I understand her plight...
As I laid her in bed, she was still finishing the last two Skittles. She washed them down with her sippy cup of ice water, I kissed her goodnight and left the room.
No, I don't have a sinking feeling in my gut because I didn't feed my kid lunch today.
No, I don't care that this one time she went down for a nap with skittles on her teeth.
Ava is the least hungry kid that I've ever known. She never asks for food. Most other days, we eat as healthy and balanced as our budget will provide. But yes, sometimes us girls have cereal for dinner.
So what?!
It is what it is. Sometimes that happens. I'm not sorry.
Ava is no worse for the wear because she didn't get a big balanced meal for lunch today. And it will most likely happen many more times in the years to come.
I did it.
You did it.
I'm alive.
You're alive.
I think sometimes we as parents put waaaaaay too much of society's pressure on ourselves to consistently give the BEST ALL OF THE TIME.
I think we forget to live.
I think we get a little farther away from reality.
Yes, most of the time our children (and ourselves) need healthy balanced meals, they need strict guidelines from their parents, they need rules, they need structure.
But seriously, that's NO FUN.
So, let's relax a little. No, I'm not suggesting that you give your kid Skittles for lunch any day. That's up to you.
But I am suggesting that we just CHILL.
Don't you think better kids come from chill parents than super uptight-rulesy ones?
I can't wait to send my beautiful princesses next door to roll in the mud with those 4 roudy neighbor boys.
I will be right there filming and taking pictures - laughing right along with them.
(And then I'll go home and cry about the fact that their most mud-worthy playclothes are still in stellar condition, and I now have to throw them away). But no one will see that!
I'm thankful for the opportunity to NOT take life so seriously sometimes.
It's really fun. You should try it!
I've never professed to be a perfect mom - in fact, I'm super-far from it!
Some days I do my best...
Others, I am a wee bit of a slacker.
Like today.
We got up this morning and got ready for Hannah to head to school. When she got on the bus (an accident-free journey today, unlike yesterday), I sat down to inhale a cup of coffee or two.
Ava and I headed out to "The Car Store", our local bodyshop for a long overdue oil change.
An hour later, we were headed to the grocery store.
Another hour later, we were headed home. I could've gone for McDonald's for lunch, but Pink Slime isn't on the menu today.
I figured we would make sandwiches or something at home before I put Ava down for her nap.
While my phone wouldn't stop ringing, I ended up being in one conversation or another for over an hour. At this time, it was 12:30.
The entire time I was yacking away on the phone, Ava was happily seated on the living room floor eating a bag of Skittles that I had bought her in the grocery checkout lane to keep her content - she had been getting restless in the store as her lunch and naptimes were drawing ever near.
I realized at this point I had 3 hours until we needed to leave to pick Hannah up and head to dance class.
"If I feed her lunch now," I thought, "It will be at least an hour before she's done eating, and I have to wake her by 3 so we can leave by 3:30..."
So I dropped the gauntlet.
And for the next 10 minutes I tried convincing her that naps were good, that I hate taking naps too, that I understand her plight...
As I laid her in bed, she was still finishing the last two Skittles. She washed them down with her sippy cup of ice water, I kissed her goodnight and left the room.
No, I don't have a sinking feeling in my gut because I didn't feed my kid lunch today.
No, I don't care that this one time she went down for a nap with skittles on her teeth.
Ava is the least hungry kid that I've ever known. She never asks for food. Most other days, we eat as healthy and balanced as our budget will provide. But yes, sometimes us girls have cereal for dinner.
So what?!
It is what it is. Sometimes that happens. I'm not sorry.
Ava is no worse for the wear because she didn't get a big balanced meal for lunch today. And it will most likely happen many more times in the years to come.
I did it.
You did it.
I'm alive.
You're alive.
I think sometimes we as parents put waaaaaay too much of society's pressure on ourselves to consistently give the BEST ALL OF THE TIME.
I think we forget to live.
I think we get a little farther away from reality.
Yes, most of the time our children (and ourselves) need healthy balanced meals, they need strict guidelines from their parents, they need rules, they need structure.
But seriously, that's NO FUN.
So, let's relax a little. No, I'm not suggesting that you give your kid Skittles for lunch any day. That's up to you.
But I am suggesting that we just CHILL.
Don't you think better kids come from chill parents than super uptight-rulesy ones?
I can't wait to send my beautiful princesses next door to roll in the mud with those 4 roudy neighbor boys.
I will be right there filming and taking pictures - laughing right along with them.
(And then I'll go home and cry about the fact that their most mud-worthy playclothes are still in stellar condition, and I now have to throw them away). But no one will see that!
I'm thankful for the opportunity to NOT take life so seriously sometimes.
It's really fun. You should try it!
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
How Precious Life Is (85/366)
Wednesday March 28, 2012
BIG scare today!
After I got Hannah on the bus, I sat in bed drinking a cup of coffee, watching The Today Show. My phone rang around 8:50 AM, and when I looked at the caller ID, it was Hannah's school.
My first thought was oh, geez, she got bus-sick again! So, when I answered, an automated message said the following:
"Bus #xx has been involved in a traffic accident. All students and the bus driver are unharmed. More details to come later."
Ummm, WHAT?!
My heart leaped into my throat. My first instinct was to totally FREAK OUT! So, I called my husband and the first words I said to him (frantically) were, "Ok, just listen to what I tell you then tell me to calm down and then tell me what to do."
He listened patiently, and when I was finished with the story, he told me to calm down and call the school. So I did.
I was told that there would be a counselor at the school to meet the kids when they got off the bus that picked them up from the accident, and that the school would contact any individual parents of children that were having a particularly hard time.
RED FLAG!! REALLY?! If it was a simple accident/fender bender, why would the kids need a counselor?
So I called my neighbor who has kids that ride the bus with Hannah. I assumed she would know. She always knows. And she usually has TONS of details.
She didn't know.
Between her phone calls and mine, we figured out what happened.
The bus stopped 1/4 mile from my house to pick up 2 kids. Just before the bus driver locked the bus brakes to stop the bus and open the door, a car traveling at full speed (55-60 mph) didn't see the bus and plowed into the back of it.
The car was driven by a 19 year old girl and she was the only passenger. I don't know what she was doing, there were no skid marks indicating she tried to stop, and the entire front end of the passenger side of her car was underneath the bus.
Had the bus not been pulled to the side of the road, she would have been decapitated.
Had she been positioned 6 inches more to the right on the road, she would have been decapitated.
(Photos Courtesty of woodtv.com)
As it turns out, she jumped out of her car and ran through the yard where the accident took place. She was bloody from cuts, her arm was clearly broken and her neck was already swollen from what appeared to be some severe whiplash. She was concerned about how her dad would react to her having wrecked the car. I'm going to give her the benefit of the doubt on this one and say she was in shock - I'd like to think she was horrified that she hit a bus-full of young elementary school students, and not at all worried about her car.
The bus driver said that had she locked the bus brakes, most or all of the kids on board would have sustained pretty serious injuries. They would have been thrown about the bus like marbles in a bag. Instead, the kids did all jerk forward and hit their faces or their heads on the seats in front of each one them.
Had the driver of the car swerved to the left to miss the bus, she would have hit an oncoming car.
Had she swerved to the right to miss the bus, she would have run over the 2 kids waiting to board the bus.
I called Hannah's teacher and spoke with her just after Hannah got to school. She was a little shaken up, but okay. I figured if I went to the school to see her, she would have fallen apart. So, I just asked her teacher to keep an eye on her and if there were any problems that she call me right away.
As the morning went on, I couldn't stand the fact that I hadn't laid hands or eyes on my sweet baby girl. At Hannah's lunch time, Ava and I made a trip to the school to see her.
All of the kids swarmed us. I got hugs from at least half of Hannah's classmates. Ava was poked, prodded, tickled, touched and hugged on too. And when I saw Hannah, I fell apart. Not Hannah - she was strong as a rock, seemingly unaffected by what had happened.
Of course, I couldn't let her see me fall apart, so I quickly composed myself and just hugged her.
I know, I know, given that everyone was okay I should have been a little less emotional about the whole thing. But with all of the phone calls, the texts, the calls to school, the bus garage, my husband, my mom and mother in law, etc. I was so worked up and just needed to SEE her. I just needed to see that she was handling what happened alright. It was her first vehicle accident, and I'm sure seeing the other car trapped under the bus, and seeing the young girl bloody and running through our neighbor's yard was somewhat traumatic.
But she was fine. She was happy to see her sissy and me, and she was fine.
I can't say that I've ever experienced the panic/fear/worry/concern/eager/curious emotions that I felt all at once today wondering if Hannah was alright. I know the phone call said there were no injuries, but for a 6 year old something like that is scary!
The Lord was looking out for the kids on the bus, the bus driver, my neighbor's kids waiting on the lawn to board the bus and the driver of that car. There were angels on our road today.
In a split second, life can change. So many people have experienced that already in their lives. Today, I got a small snippet.
I am done running the scenarios through my head.
I am just thankful that it turned out the way it did.
And I will hug my kids a little tighter tonight.
BIG scare today!
After I got Hannah on the bus, I sat in bed drinking a cup of coffee, watching The Today Show. My phone rang around 8:50 AM, and when I looked at the caller ID, it was Hannah's school.
My first thought was oh, geez, she got bus-sick again! So, when I answered, an automated message said the following:
"Bus #xx has been involved in a traffic accident. All students and the bus driver are unharmed. More details to come later."
Ummm, WHAT?!
My heart leaped into my throat. My first instinct was to totally FREAK OUT! So, I called my husband and the first words I said to him (frantically) were, "Ok, just listen to what I tell you then tell me to calm down and then tell me what to do."
He listened patiently, and when I was finished with the story, he told me to calm down and call the school. So I did.
I was told that there would be a counselor at the school to meet the kids when they got off the bus that picked them up from the accident, and that the school would contact any individual parents of children that were having a particularly hard time.
RED FLAG!! REALLY?! If it was a simple accident/fender bender, why would the kids need a counselor?
So I called my neighbor who has kids that ride the bus with Hannah. I assumed she would know. She always knows. And she usually has TONS of details.
She didn't know.
Between her phone calls and mine, we figured out what happened.
The bus stopped 1/4 mile from my house to pick up 2 kids. Just before the bus driver locked the bus brakes to stop the bus and open the door, a car traveling at full speed (55-60 mph) didn't see the bus and plowed into the back of it.
The car was driven by a 19 year old girl and she was the only passenger. I don't know what she was doing, there were no skid marks indicating she tried to stop, and the entire front end of the passenger side of her car was underneath the bus.
Had the bus not been pulled to the side of the road, she would have been decapitated.
Had she been positioned 6 inches more to the right on the road, she would have been decapitated.
(Photos Courtesty of woodtv.com)
As it turns out, she jumped out of her car and ran through the yard where the accident took place. She was bloody from cuts, her arm was clearly broken and her neck was already swollen from what appeared to be some severe whiplash. She was concerned about how her dad would react to her having wrecked the car. I'm going to give her the benefit of the doubt on this one and say she was in shock - I'd like to think she was horrified that she hit a bus-full of young elementary school students, and not at all worried about her car.
The bus driver said that had she locked the bus brakes, most or all of the kids on board would have sustained pretty serious injuries. They would have been thrown about the bus like marbles in a bag. Instead, the kids did all jerk forward and hit their faces or their heads on the seats in front of each one them.
Had the driver of the car swerved to the left to miss the bus, she would have hit an oncoming car.
Had she swerved to the right to miss the bus, she would have run over the 2 kids waiting to board the bus.
I called Hannah's teacher and spoke with her just after Hannah got to school. She was a little shaken up, but okay. I figured if I went to the school to see her, she would have fallen apart. So, I just asked her teacher to keep an eye on her and if there were any problems that she call me right away.
As the morning went on, I couldn't stand the fact that I hadn't laid hands or eyes on my sweet baby girl. At Hannah's lunch time, Ava and I made a trip to the school to see her.
All of the kids swarmed us. I got hugs from at least half of Hannah's classmates. Ava was poked, prodded, tickled, touched and hugged on too. And when I saw Hannah, I fell apart. Not Hannah - she was strong as a rock, seemingly unaffected by what had happened.
Of course, I couldn't let her see me fall apart, so I quickly composed myself and just hugged her.
I know, I know, given that everyone was okay I should have been a little less emotional about the whole thing. But with all of the phone calls, the texts, the calls to school, the bus garage, my husband, my mom and mother in law, etc. I was so worked up and just needed to SEE her. I just needed to see that she was handling what happened alright. It was her first vehicle accident, and I'm sure seeing the other car trapped under the bus, and seeing the young girl bloody and running through our neighbor's yard was somewhat traumatic.
But she was fine. She was happy to see her sissy and me, and she was fine.
I can't say that I've ever experienced the panic/fear/worry/concern/eager/curious emotions that I felt all at once today wondering if Hannah was alright. I know the phone call said there were no injuries, but for a 6 year old something like that is scary!
The Lord was looking out for the kids on the bus, the bus driver, my neighbor's kids waiting on the lawn to board the bus and the driver of that car. There were angels on our road today.
In a split second, life can change. So many people have experienced that already in their lives. Today, I got a small snippet.
I am done running the scenarios through my head.
I am just thankful that it turned out the way it did.
And I will hug my kids a little tighter tonight.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Shout Out (84/366)
Tuesday March 27, 2012
After yesterday's post (not posted until today, but the one titled Fork In The Road) I feel a need to explain just a bit why I made the decision to change the subject matter of the blog.
I am following a blog called Single Dad Laughing (check it out here). I read his posts everyday and I think he is very real, very raw (sometimes too raw), and very honest. These are qualities I am looking to have more of in my own writings.
Since I started following his blog, I've become a little more comfortable in my own skin. He's just a guy that was going through a rough time in his life, and he started a blog. He didn't really know where it was going to go, but it has reached thousands - and touched hundreds of thousands.
In reading his posts, I've gained confidence to write and speak about what's important to me - the failures, the embarassing moments, the raw life experience I've had.
The other blogs I follow are too many to list, but one of the most important is written by my friend (and neighbor) Denise. You can check hers out here. Her latest post about seeing the movie The Hunger Games with her oldest son, and the teachable moments that came from it is inspiring.
Denise is real. She is raw. She is honest. But differently so.
She and I could not be more different (we do have many things in common, I'm overexaggerating) ~ with the exception of one major thing: our faith.
Most posts, Denise ties her life experience of raising four boys in with her faith and how our relationship with God is so similar to our relationship and experiences as parents. I wish I were a little better in that area. I really really do.
Denise shows humor, honesty, humility and just great fun in her posts. I enjoy reading them when she publishes. I admire her courage to write about parenting the way she does. If I could be half the mom she is...
So these two blogs, mostly, have pushed me over the edge to go back to writing about the things that are hard to read, or talk about, or acknowledge.
It's difficult, and I'm scared.
The end goal: to provide healing, help, advice and plain 'ol entertainment to my readers!
I'm thankful for the inspiration I have received from others. And let's not forget Meg, who got me started on this journey of everyday blogging - It's all YOUR fault!!! ;)
After yesterday's post (not posted until today, but the one titled Fork In The Road) I feel a need to explain just a bit why I made the decision to change the subject matter of the blog.
I am following a blog called Single Dad Laughing (check it out here). I read his posts everyday and I think he is very real, very raw (sometimes too raw), and very honest. These are qualities I am looking to have more of in my own writings.
Since I started following his blog, I've become a little more comfortable in my own skin. He's just a guy that was going through a rough time in his life, and he started a blog. He didn't really know where it was going to go, but it has reached thousands - and touched hundreds of thousands.
In reading his posts, I've gained confidence to write and speak about what's important to me - the failures, the embarassing moments, the raw life experience I've had.
The other blogs I follow are too many to list, but one of the most important is written by my friend (and neighbor) Denise. You can check hers out here. Her latest post about seeing the movie The Hunger Games with her oldest son, and the teachable moments that came from it is inspiring.
Denise is real. She is raw. She is honest. But differently so.
She and I could not be more different (we do have many things in common, I'm overexaggerating) ~ with the exception of one major thing: our faith.
Most posts, Denise ties her life experience of raising four boys in with her faith and how our relationship with God is so similar to our relationship and experiences as parents. I wish I were a little better in that area. I really really do.
Denise shows humor, honesty, humility and just great fun in her posts. I enjoy reading them when she publishes. I admire her courage to write about parenting the way she does. If I could be half the mom she is...
So these two blogs, mostly, have pushed me over the edge to go back to writing about the things that are hard to read, or talk about, or acknowledge.
It's difficult, and I'm scared.
The end goal: to provide healing, help, advice and plain 'ol entertainment to my readers!
I'm thankful for the inspiration I have received from others. And let's not forget Meg, who got me started on this journey of everyday blogging - It's all YOUR fault!!! ;)
Fork In The Road (83/366)
Monday March 26, 2012
I love to write.
It's incredibly therapeutic for me.
I appreciate everyone who reads my blog, whether you get the email feed and click right away, or you come to it at your leisure.
Lately I've been feeling like something is missing.
I started this blog in 2010 when I was in the process of pulling myself out of the deep, dark hole of depression. There were so many things bogging my mind down. Not the least of which being the Postpartum Depression I was still struggling with. That post, Flashbacks To Losing It, remains the most popular and by far the most read.
My goal at that time was to write about things that NO One was talking about, but SO many people were feeling or experiencing. I've never been afraid to speak my mind or say things that some might find uncomfortable.
Of course, this leaves me open to judgement by many. I've gone back & forth about how far to go with postings. I've always done my best to be anonymous, never naming names. Any pictures I post of others or their kids are done so with their permission first.
Recently, I've been posting about my kids, things we've done or things they've said. I think that's important to do as well.
But not everyday.
When I agreed to blog everyday for an entire year, I had no idea really what I was getting myself into. It is a huge task.
Not every day has a story. Not every day has a momentous occasion to share. Not every day is there something weighing heavy on my mind.
I am almost 3 complete months into my year of daily blogging and I feel it has gotten a little off track. When I write about the hard stuff, the controversial stuff, the personal stuff, there are at times 10 times more readers on those posts.
That tells me a lot.
Either people like to read about the hard stuff, or they are sharing it more with their friends, or they are talking more about me and how my (sometimes crazy) mind works, or they're trying to figure out who I am talking about ~ no matter which it is, people are reading.
9 times out of 10, I am getting praise and compliments for the popular posts. I've been told to reserve a copy of my first book for some friends. I get private messages from people that can relate. I get public comments of praise.
I also get some criticism, but that is to be expected. I don't expect anyone to think or feel the way that I do. I blog based on my own life experience and how it has shaped my mind to think.
So I've decided to go back to posting about the things that no one talks about. Of course, some of these posts will be controversial and you may not agree with them. I'm going to try to keep it personal and relay to you how it seems from my eyes, but I welcome your comments and your feedback. I will, of course, continue to be discreet and respectful of the situations and experiences I choose to blog about. Losing followers in no way compares to losing friends ~ and I would never want to alienate any of my friends. I may even change the name of this blog... I'm still debating that one.
I want to grow this blog, and hopefully turn it into something bigger someday. Since I have become a mother, I have very much desired to write a book. I would love to write about divorce and how it affects teenage girls (I'm sure this has been done hundreds of times, but my story is different), I would love to write a book about how having step-parents has affected me as a young girl, teenager and a woman (also, been done before), and I would love to write a book about the after-life of becoming a mother. While joyous and miraculous, having children for me has not even come close to being the experience I had in my mind that it would be. I think that is something many women feel, don't talk about, and may find some comfort in knowing they're not alone.
Today, I'm thankful for the decision that was so hard for me to make. I am thankful for those readers that stick with me through this and help me along the way.
It is with a deep breath that I click "publish".
I love to write.
It's incredibly therapeutic for me.
I appreciate everyone who reads my blog, whether you get the email feed and click right away, or you come to it at your leisure.
Lately I've been feeling like something is missing.
I started this blog in 2010 when I was in the process of pulling myself out of the deep, dark hole of depression. There were so many things bogging my mind down. Not the least of which being the Postpartum Depression I was still struggling with. That post, Flashbacks To Losing It, remains the most popular and by far the most read.
My goal at that time was to write about things that NO One was talking about, but SO many people were feeling or experiencing. I've never been afraid to speak my mind or say things that some might find uncomfortable.
Of course, this leaves me open to judgement by many. I've gone back & forth about how far to go with postings. I've always done my best to be anonymous, never naming names. Any pictures I post of others or their kids are done so with their permission first.
Recently, I've been posting about my kids, things we've done or things they've said. I think that's important to do as well.
But not everyday.
When I agreed to blog everyday for an entire year, I had no idea really what I was getting myself into. It is a huge task.
Not every day has a story. Not every day has a momentous occasion to share. Not every day is there something weighing heavy on my mind.
I am almost 3 complete months into my year of daily blogging and I feel it has gotten a little off track. When I write about the hard stuff, the controversial stuff, the personal stuff, there are at times 10 times more readers on those posts.
That tells me a lot.
Either people like to read about the hard stuff, or they are sharing it more with their friends, or they are talking more about me and how my (sometimes crazy) mind works, or they're trying to figure out who I am talking about ~ no matter which it is, people are reading.
9 times out of 10, I am getting praise and compliments for the popular posts. I've been told to reserve a copy of my first book for some friends. I get private messages from people that can relate. I get public comments of praise.
I also get some criticism, but that is to be expected. I don't expect anyone to think or feel the way that I do. I blog based on my own life experience and how it has shaped my mind to think.
So I've decided to go back to posting about the things that no one talks about. Of course, some of these posts will be controversial and you may not agree with them. I'm going to try to keep it personal and relay to you how it seems from my eyes, but I welcome your comments and your feedback. I will, of course, continue to be discreet and respectful of the situations and experiences I choose to blog about. Losing followers in no way compares to losing friends ~ and I would never want to alienate any of my friends. I may even change the name of this blog... I'm still debating that one.
I want to grow this blog, and hopefully turn it into something bigger someday. Since I have become a mother, I have very much desired to write a book. I would love to write about divorce and how it affects teenage girls (I'm sure this has been done hundreds of times, but my story is different), I would love to write a book about how having step-parents has affected me as a young girl, teenager and a woman (also, been done before), and I would love to write a book about the after-life of becoming a mother. While joyous and miraculous, having children for me has not even come close to being the experience I had in my mind that it would be. I think that is something many women feel, don't talk about, and may find some comfort in knowing they're not alone.
Today, I'm thankful for the decision that was so hard for me to make. I am thankful for those readers that stick with me through this and help me along the way.
It is with a deep breath that I click "publish".
The Aftermath (82/366)
Sunday March 25, 2012
Well yesterday was a complete success!
The dance pictures went as smooth as could be.
We were there right on time, only waited 10 minutes, and were back home within an hour.
And it's a 20 minute drive each way.
That's pretty good.
I must thank my step-mom Dianne for coming over early to the party and helping me with hair and make-up.
Things went so smoothly and we were so ahead of time that it almost seemed as though I didn't need her.
But without her, I'm sure it would have gone very differently.
(Above: Hannah, 6 going on 16)
(Above: Ava, Age 3)
(Below: Sisters - I've been told they are almost identical!)
The party was an absolute blast!
Aside from my daughter Hannah throwing a dance party using my iPod instead of hers (she knows better) with the kitchen stereo (think hip-hop and rock vs. Kids Bop) everything went amazingly well!
I love seeing our friends after not seeing them since the end of summer last year.
It's always amazing to me how much their kids have grown! I love watching our kids, who are all about the same age, play together as if they see each other all the time!
And to see those friends who are expecting new babies this late spring and summer is so exciting too!
Today I'm thankful that everything went off without a hitch. We had plenty of food, the weather was nice enough that we played outside mostly and it seemed as though everyone had a great time catching up.
I know I did!
Well yesterday was a complete success!
The dance pictures went as smooth as could be.
We were there right on time, only waited 10 minutes, and were back home within an hour.
And it's a 20 minute drive each way.
That's pretty good.
I must thank my step-mom Dianne for coming over early to the party and helping me with hair and make-up.
Things went so smoothly and we were so ahead of time that it almost seemed as though I didn't need her.
But without her, I'm sure it would have gone very differently.
(Above: Hannah, 6 going on 16)
(Above: Ava, Age 3)
(Below: Sisters - I've been told they are almost identical!)
The party was an absolute blast!
Aside from my daughter Hannah throwing a dance party using my iPod instead of hers (she knows better) with the kitchen stereo (think hip-hop and rock vs. Kids Bop) everything went amazingly well!
I love seeing our friends after not seeing them since the end of summer last year.
It's always amazing to me how much their kids have grown! I love watching our kids, who are all about the same age, play together as if they see each other all the time!
And to see those friends who are expecting new babies this late spring and summer is so exciting too!
Today I'm thankful that everything went off without a hitch. We had plenty of food, the weather was nice enough that we played outside mostly and it seemed as though everyone had a great time catching up.
I know I did!
The BIG Day (81/366)
Saturday March 24, 2012
Today is the big day.
Not only do we have the girls' birthday party, but we also have the girls' dance pictures.
I love getting their dance pictures taken.
And so do they.
They get to put tons of makeup on, and it's the first time they get to wear their recital costumes.
After that, we get to race home to put on our party dresses and play!
Their birthday party is usually a big event around here.
We invite our whole family, and all of our friends and their kids.
It's kind of a "Mid-Winter" break and get-together.
There are upwards of 30 or more people here.
Best of all, I don't have to clean today.
At all.
Maybe a little pick up after everyone has gone home, but I'll save the after-party cleaning for tomorrow.
Today, I'm going to relax and enjoy myself.
I am thankful for great family and friends - both for Mommy and my girls. It is something I look forward to every year.
Today is the big day.
Not only do we have the girls' birthday party, but we also have the girls' dance pictures.
I love getting their dance pictures taken.
And so do they.
They get to put tons of makeup on, and it's the first time they get to wear their recital costumes.
After that, we get to race home to put on our party dresses and play!
Their birthday party is usually a big event around here.
We invite our whole family, and all of our friends and their kids.
It's kind of a "Mid-Winter" break and get-together.
There are upwards of 30 or more people here.
Best of all, I don't have to clean today.
At all.
Maybe a little pick up after everyone has gone home, but I'll save the after-party cleaning for tomorrow.
Today, I'm going to relax and enjoy myself.
I am thankful for great family and friends - both for Mommy and my girls. It is something I look forward to every year.
Weekend Writing (80/366)
Friday, March 23, 2012
I don't see my husband much during the week. Between work and the kids, time just slips away.
We've grown used to our routines and they work. For us.
But on the weekends... now that's a completely different story.
I don't turn my computer on.
Therefore, I don't blog.
I could use my phone, but I don't like the Blogger app on my iPhone - it's formatted funny, and it doesn't allow me to type in landscape. Who would want to type a whole blog post with their single index finger??
Not this girl.
I do, however, take notes of those 3 days on my phone. I jot down highlights and funny things or sayings, titles of posts, whatever and whenever they come to me. So when I do finally sit down at my computer, it's all right there and I just need to put it together and post it.
Anyway, weekends are busy sometimes, but mostly they are uninterrupted time with my husband and kids.
If I'm not with the girls, he is, and I'm relaxing or taking time away for just me.
I'm not blogging.
Honestly, unless something super happens during the weekend, I may just possibly make it this whole year without blogging on a single weekend.
So, that in a nutshell is why I don't normally blog on the weekend. I hope that's okay and I appreciate your return on Mondays.
Today, I'm thankful for the 3 day break from blogging - it's not a chore for me at all. I enjoy it thoroughly. I just like to be focused 100%, with little to no distractions. I'd be cheating if I didn't do that.
But I also enjoy the break from thinking.
I don't see my husband much during the week. Between work and the kids, time just slips away.
We've grown used to our routines and they work. For us.
But on the weekends... now that's a completely different story.
I don't turn my computer on.
Therefore, I don't blog.
I could use my phone, but I don't like the Blogger app on my iPhone - it's formatted funny, and it doesn't allow me to type in landscape. Who would want to type a whole blog post with their single index finger??
Not this girl.
I do, however, take notes of those 3 days on my phone. I jot down highlights and funny things or sayings, titles of posts, whatever and whenever they come to me. So when I do finally sit down at my computer, it's all right there and I just need to put it together and post it.
Anyway, weekends are busy sometimes, but mostly they are uninterrupted time with my husband and kids.
If I'm not with the girls, he is, and I'm relaxing or taking time away for just me.
I'm not blogging.
Honestly, unless something super happens during the weekend, I may just possibly make it this whole year without blogging on a single weekend.
So, that in a nutshell is why I don't normally blog on the weekend. I hope that's okay and I appreciate your return on Mondays.
Today, I'm thankful for the 3 day break from blogging - it's not a chore for me at all. I enjoy it thoroughly. I just like to be focused 100%, with little to no distractions. I'd be cheating if I didn't do that.
But I also enjoy the break from thinking.
Almost Done (79/366)
Thursday March 22, 2012
Today marks the second to last day of my absolutely exhausting cleaning spree.
I took spring cleaning to a whole new level.
I won't bore you with all of the nitty gritty details of everything I've done, but let's just say I will have soooo much more time this spring (the real spring, not this fake one we're getting teased with right now) and summer to PLAY!!
I have had so much energy this week preparing for the girls' birthday party this weekend.
And I've needed it.
But at the end of the day,
I.
Am.
Whooped.
I have had zero gumption to write anything.
So bear with me while I collect myself and after this weekend I will be back at it.
Today, I'm thankful that I can see the finish line.
Today marks the second to last day of my absolutely exhausting cleaning spree.
I took spring cleaning to a whole new level.
I won't bore you with all of the nitty gritty details of everything I've done, but let's just say I will have soooo much more time this spring (the real spring, not this fake one we're getting teased with right now) and summer to PLAY!!
I have had so much energy this week preparing for the girls' birthday party this weekend.
And I've needed it.
But at the end of the day,
I.
Am.
Whooped.
I have had zero gumption to write anything.
So bear with me while I collect myself and after this weekend I will be back at it.
Today, I'm thankful that I can see the finish line.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
A Little Extra Oomph! (78/366)
Wednesday March 21, 2012
I really hope that's today's date. I honestly have no idea what the date is.
Today was somethin' else. Yesterday was somethin' else. Monday was the start of this "somethin' else" week.
I'm beat.
I got up extra early and got Hannah off to school. I made sure I had ample time to drink at least one pot of coffee before I began my "chores".
I wanted to get an early start - they were calling for a high of 87 degrees today.
The good thing about 87 degrees in March is that there is NO HUMIDITY.
It was PERFECT.
So I decided ahead of time that Ava could help me with my chores and skip her nap... as long as she stayed happy.
I power-washed the exposed aggregate front porch, the front door, garage doors and front walkway. Ava dug holes in my landscaping beds.
I took all of the screens out of our windows, washed them and let them dry in the sun. Ava ate 2 popsicles and watched me.
I took all of the curtains off of the windows and washed them too. Ava ate lunch.
I washed all of the girls' summer toys - all of the beach toys, the bikes, the trikes, the picnic table, anything I could find. Ava helped with this - and she had a blast.
We went to the dollar store up the road looking for cool-shaped sidwalk chalk, since hers had recently gotten run over in the driveway. They didn't have any, but we found new floaties and inflatable rings that will get a lot of use this summer.
I buried a trellis for my clematis. It's actually the ladder and support beams from an old swingset we had... I used a rubber mallot to bury it. My clematis are happy now.
That really might not sound like that much, but with a 3 year old on your shirttails, it is. I refused to let her sit inside all day. I insisted that she come out with me. We went flower hunting, we got the leaf blower out and made a big leaf pile, you name it. Multiple interruptions, but we made it super fun!
At this point, it was almost time for Hannah to get off the bus. So, I cleaned everything up and prepared to get in the shower. I started hearing this soft "BANG" (if there is such a thing) on what I thought was one of the living room windows. It sounded like a June Bug that kept flying into the glass.
Turns out it was Daddy, rapping on the front glass door trying to get Ava's attention - she was SUPER GLUED to the TV. Totally zoned out, exhausted from the day.
Well, Daddy gave us some good news - that he will be home more often for the next 3 weeks. Yay! Us girls were SO happy to hear that!
We ended the night with an awesome spaghetti dinner at my dad's house (the girls' favorite). I think my last kid was still up 20 minutes ago ~ it's one of those nights that they are finding EVERY reason in the whole wide world to get out of bed. Most are because they just want ONE more hug or kiss. It's hard to say no to that, or even get upset!
Tomorrow's to-do list is to wash the windows and trim so I can put the screens back on, iron the curtains and wash the rods, laundry, bathrooms (again), floors (again) and vacuum. It's supposed to rain, and I hope and pray that it does so I can stay inside and work all day... Plus, that cute little boy is coming back over to play for a while - he and Ava can clean the playroom (totally kidding)!
Tonight, I'm thankful for the amazing rush of energy and ambition I have had the last 3 days. It has been a long long time since I have had this much gumption, and it feels really good.
My workout will be in FULL GEAR starting Monday. It just feels right, finally.
And I'm just gonna go with it!
I really hope that's today's date. I honestly have no idea what the date is.
Today was somethin' else. Yesterday was somethin' else. Monday was the start of this "somethin' else" week.
I'm beat.
I got up extra early and got Hannah off to school. I made sure I had ample time to drink at least one pot of coffee before I began my "chores".
I wanted to get an early start - they were calling for a high of 87 degrees today.
The good thing about 87 degrees in March is that there is NO HUMIDITY.
It was PERFECT.
So I decided ahead of time that Ava could help me with my chores and skip her nap... as long as she stayed happy.
I power-washed the exposed aggregate front porch, the front door, garage doors and front walkway. Ava dug holes in my landscaping beds.
I took all of the screens out of our windows, washed them and let them dry in the sun. Ava ate 2 popsicles and watched me.
I took all of the curtains off of the windows and washed them too. Ava ate lunch.
I washed all of the girls' summer toys - all of the beach toys, the bikes, the trikes, the picnic table, anything I could find. Ava helped with this - and she had a blast.
We went to the dollar store up the road looking for cool-shaped sidwalk chalk, since hers had recently gotten run over in the driveway. They didn't have any, but we found new floaties and inflatable rings that will get a lot of use this summer.
I buried a trellis for my clematis. It's actually the ladder and support beams from an old swingset we had... I used a rubber mallot to bury it. My clematis are happy now.
That really might not sound like that much, but with a 3 year old on your shirttails, it is. I refused to let her sit inside all day. I insisted that she come out with me. We went flower hunting, we got the leaf blower out and made a big leaf pile, you name it. Multiple interruptions, but we made it super fun!
At this point, it was almost time for Hannah to get off the bus. So, I cleaned everything up and prepared to get in the shower. I started hearing this soft "BANG" (if there is such a thing) on what I thought was one of the living room windows. It sounded like a June Bug that kept flying into the glass.
Turns out it was Daddy, rapping on the front glass door trying to get Ava's attention - she was SUPER GLUED to the TV. Totally zoned out, exhausted from the day.
Well, Daddy gave us some good news - that he will be home more often for the next 3 weeks. Yay! Us girls were SO happy to hear that!
We ended the night with an awesome spaghetti dinner at my dad's house (the girls' favorite). I think my last kid was still up 20 minutes ago ~ it's one of those nights that they are finding EVERY reason in the whole wide world to get out of bed. Most are because they just want ONE more hug or kiss. It's hard to say no to that, or even get upset!
Tomorrow's to-do list is to wash the windows and trim so I can put the screens back on, iron the curtains and wash the rods, laundry, bathrooms (again), floors (again) and vacuum. It's supposed to rain, and I hope and pray that it does so I can stay inside and work all day... Plus, that cute little boy is coming back over to play for a while - he and Ava can clean the playroom (totally kidding)!
Tonight, I'm thankful for the amazing rush of energy and ambition I have had the last 3 days. It has been a long long time since I have had this much gumption, and it feels really good.
My workout will be in FULL GEAR starting Monday. It just feels right, finally.
And I'm just gonna go with it!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Everything Hurts (77/366)
Short post tonight... I'm posting from the Blogger app on my phone, which I don't like to do, but it works for tonight.
I'm sunburnt.
My arms, legs, chest and back hurt.
My toes hurt.
My eyes hurt.
I remember why we don't hang out on our deck...
Ava and I went to dance this morning. Then we sat at the body shop for over an hour waiting for an oil change.
When we finally got home, lunch made and Ava napping it was 1:00.
I finished power washing the deck.
The whole deck.
And the stairs.
And the supports.
It took me over 3 hours.
Then I hauled the heavy, HEAVY power washer down the steps, one at a time, and moved the hose and reel to the other side of the house (not an easy task with a muddy yard) and started to wash the front patio.
It's all exposed aggregate so it could use a shine up. So could the front door...
I ran out of gas.
But everything is all set up for tomorrow. I'll add the screens and windows to the to-do list too.
Another 85 degree day... What else is there to do??!!
Tonight, I'm thankful for Aloe Vera, a cool shower and my bed.
Early.
I'm sunburnt.
My arms, legs, chest and back hurt.
My toes hurt.
My eyes hurt.
I remember why we don't hang out on our deck...
Ava and I went to dance this morning. Then we sat at the body shop for over an hour waiting for an oil change.
When we finally got home, lunch made and Ava napping it was 1:00.
I finished power washing the deck.
The whole deck.
And the stairs.
And the supports.
It took me over 3 hours.
Then I hauled the heavy, HEAVY power washer down the steps, one at a time, and moved the hose and reel to the other side of the house (not an easy task with a muddy yard) and started to wash the front patio.
It's all exposed aggregate so it could use a shine up. So could the front door...
I ran out of gas.
But everything is all set up for tomorrow. I'll add the screens and windows to the to-do list too.
Another 85 degree day... What else is there to do??!!
Tonight, I'm thankful for Aloe Vera, a cool shower and my bed.
Early.
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