It's been awhile since I blogged, I'm out of practice.
I work at a hospital. I work in different areas all the time, Pediactric ICU, Med/Surg, ER, NICU - all over the place. And you see some crazy things, what you don't see, you hear about. This doesn't necessarily fall into the "crazy" category, more just the "are you serious" file. Well, the hospital I work at (like most hospitals I would assume) is a smoke free campus. Directly across the street is a community college - also smoke free, clearly pointed out by a huge sign right in the middle of the courtyard. Regardless, this where everyone goes to smoke. In the smoke free courtyard under the smoke free sign. Patients in wheel chairs hooked up to IV's dragging their poles behind them lighting up. Just a crazy observation I made today.
My 8 year old is a sleepwalker. He's always been a heavy sleeper, but now he's graduated to being mobile while semi-conscience. At first I would hear him and get up thinking he needed something, or wasn't feeling well and asked him if he was okay. He would then "look" at me and laugh. Which didn't illicit the most patient response out of me at 3 in the morning. It took awhile but I think I finally figured out what's getting him up at night in the first place. He's gotta pee. Only he's asleep. There is a hugely funny story here that I could tell but for the sake of dignity (namely my sons) - I won't. Which makes it a pretty lame blog altogether. My solution: we are cutting back on the fluids before bed and hoping that will help stay put - if not I may have to look into other options (i.e. a gate perhaps).
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Ugh.
I am so tired.
First of all - I have four kids, and that should be exhausting enough, but honestly for the most part, it's not. I love them so much it physically hurts me, and would do and do do everything in my power for them. It bothers me when I mention to people (usually childless people) that I went grocery shopping with all four the other day - and they give me that head to the side, pity smile and say "aww, I bet that was fun!". I get that they have no idea, and that's fine but this is my life, and those kids are my life, and they are good kids and I enjoy spending time with them more than anything else. Whether it's grocery shopping or schooling or vacations. It's all good because I love them.
Don't get me wrong there are not so fun days - like today actually. But I find more and more that it has a heck of a lot more to do with me and my attitude than them and theirs. I set the tone for the day and they fall in line. If I'm being selfsh and crabby, guess who else is. If I am laid back and chill, so are they. The whole reason I had to sit and blog this was because I walked into the kitchen just now and it's a mess, so much so, that I had to turn around and walk back out for a minute. Not to mention the school stuff all over the desk which is all half done at the moment, the empty refrigerator and the 4 loads of laundry. Fine. This is not me complaining, I find joy in caring for my family in all those places. But I think I can be tired sometimes without guilt. And guilt is not something I really allow myself to waste time on - contrary to popular belief guilt is not from God and so I have no use for it.
Anyway . . .
I think me working has really impacted everything more than I thought it would. It's only part time, two days during the week at the most. And they go to their great grandma's house, so it's more like a visit than anything else. If I work the weekend, they are with their daddy. It's not a bad set up, but it is tiring for me because it breaks up our routine and I am the one towing the line during the day. Maybe I'm trying to hard. I'm not sure if I need to suck it up a bit more or cut and run. I bet there is a narrow middle road there somewhere - I'll look for that way . . .
Either way, I could try to relax, I bet that would help ;0P
Not sure what I accomplished with this, but now it's off to the kitchen, the desk, the laundry room and the grocery store - full of gratitude that I can do those things at all.
Before I end this, let me just say a thank you to God real quick - Thank you for Your perfect love and mercy. Thank you for this day, nobody is promised tomorrow. Thank you for my husband who is so full of grace and so deserving of my respect. Thank you for my kids, who bring me so much joy - so much that they could only come from You.
First of all - I have four kids, and that should be exhausting enough, but honestly for the most part, it's not. I love them so much it physically hurts me, and would do and do do everything in my power for them. It bothers me when I mention to people (usually childless people) that I went grocery shopping with all four the other day - and they give me that head to the side, pity smile and say "aww, I bet that was fun!". I get that they have no idea, and that's fine but this is my life, and those kids are my life, and they are good kids and I enjoy spending time with them more than anything else. Whether it's grocery shopping or schooling or vacations. It's all good because I love them.
Don't get me wrong there are not so fun days - like today actually. But I find more and more that it has a heck of a lot more to do with me and my attitude than them and theirs. I set the tone for the day and they fall in line. If I'm being selfsh and crabby, guess who else is. If I am laid back and chill, so are they. The whole reason I had to sit and blog this was because I walked into the kitchen just now and it's a mess, so much so, that I had to turn around and walk back out for a minute. Not to mention the school stuff all over the desk which is all half done at the moment, the empty refrigerator and the 4 loads of laundry. Fine. This is not me complaining, I find joy in caring for my family in all those places. But I think I can be tired sometimes without guilt. And guilt is not something I really allow myself to waste time on - contrary to popular belief guilt is not from God and so I have no use for it.
Anyway . . .
I think me working has really impacted everything more than I thought it would. It's only part time, two days during the week at the most. And they go to their great grandma's house, so it's more like a visit than anything else. If I work the weekend, they are with their daddy. It's not a bad set up, but it is tiring for me because it breaks up our routine and I am the one towing the line during the day. Maybe I'm trying to hard. I'm not sure if I need to suck it up a bit more or cut and run. I bet there is a narrow middle road there somewhere - I'll look for that way . . .
Either way, I could try to relax, I bet that would help ;0P
Not sure what I accomplished with this, but now it's off to the kitchen, the desk, the laundry room and the grocery store - full of gratitude that I can do those things at all.
Before I end this, let me just say a thank you to God real quick - Thank you for Your perfect love and mercy. Thank you for this day, nobody is promised tomorrow. Thank you for my husband who is so full of grace and so deserving of my respect. Thank you for my kids, who bring me so much joy - so much that they could only come from You.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Some Q&A for my boys.
Questions for my boys:
Jacob's answers---
1. What is something Mom always says to you?
"Do your school work."
2. What makes Mom happy?
"For her sons to tell the truth."
3. What makes Mom sad?
"To not obey her."
4. How does your Mom make you laugh?
"She makes funny faces."
5. What was your Mom like as a child?
"Smaller."
6. How old is your Mom?
"28."
7. How tall is your Mom?
"About 5 feet . . . ?"
8. What is her favorite thing to do?
"Spend time with her family."
9. What does your Mom do when you're not around?
"Eat chocolate and watch t.v."
10. If your Mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
"Sewing."
11. What is your Mom really good at?
"Taking care of people."
12. What is your Mom not very good at?
"Skateboarding."
13. What does your Mom do for a job?
"Cleans the hospital."
14.What is your Mom's favorite food?
"Rice."
15.What makes you proud of your Mom?
"That she gets to have a job."
16. If your Mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
"The lady on Tom and Jerry - the one where you can never see the top of her body. . ."
17. What do you and your Mom do together?
"School work."
18. How are you and your Mom the same?
"We do not like sea food."
19. How are you and your Mom different?
"She's a girl and I'm a boy."
20. How do you know your Mom loves you?
"She takes care of me."
21. Where is your Mom's favorite place to go?
"A restaurant."
Zayne's answers---
1. What is something Mom always says to you?
"Don't have a fit!"
2. What makes Mom happy?
"Not having a fit."
3. What makes Mom sad?
"Not listening."
4. How does your Mom make you laugh?
"Plays with me and tickles me."
5. What was your Mom like as a child?
"Helpful."
6. How old is your Mom?
"28"
7. How tall is your Mom?
"9 feet tall."
8. What is her favorite thing to do?
"Hang out with her kids."
9. What does your Mom do when you're not around?
"Get school work ready."
10. If your Mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
"Singing."
11. What is your Mom really good at?
"Teaching us school."
12. What is your Mom not very good at?
"Nothing."
13. What does your Mom do for a job?
"Doctor."
14.What is your Mom's favorite food?
"Mozzarella sticks."
15.What makes you proud of your Mom?
"She listens to me."
16. If your Mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
"Bloo from Fosters Home for Imaginary Friends"
17. What do you and your Mom do together?
"Go to the store."
18. How are you and your Mom the same?
"Same eyes."
19. How are you and your Mom different?
"Our legs."
20. How do you know your Mom loves you?
"Because she's my mom. . . ."
21. Where is your Mom's favorite place to go?
"The bookstore."
Jacob's answers---
1. What is something Mom always says to you?
"Do your school work."
2. What makes Mom happy?
"For her sons to tell the truth."
3. What makes Mom sad?
"To not obey her."
4. How does your Mom make you laugh?
"She makes funny faces."
5. What was your Mom like as a child?
"Smaller."
6. How old is your Mom?
"28."
7. How tall is your Mom?
"About 5 feet . . . ?"
8. What is her favorite thing to do?
"Spend time with her family."
9. What does your Mom do when you're not around?
"Eat chocolate and watch t.v."
10. If your Mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
"Sewing."
11. What is your Mom really good at?
"Taking care of people."
12. What is your Mom not very good at?
"Skateboarding."
13. What does your Mom do for a job?
"Cleans the hospital."
14.What is your Mom's favorite food?
"Rice."
15.What makes you proud of your Mom?
"That she gets to have a job."
16. If your Mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
"The lady on Tom and Jerry - the one where you can never see the top of her body. . ."
17. What do you and your Mom do together?
"School work."
18. How are you and your Mom the same?
"We do not like sea food."
19. How are you and your Mom different?
"She's a girl and I'm a boy."
20. How do you know your Mom loves you?
"She takes care of me."
21. Where is your Mom's favorite place to go?
"A restaurant."
Zayne's answers---
1. What is something Mom always says to you?
"Don't have a fit!"
2. What makes Mom happy?
"Not having a fit."
3. What makes Mom sad?
"Not listening."
4. How does your Mom make you laugh?
"Plays with me and tickles me."
5. What was your Mom like as a child?
"Helpful."
6. How old is your Mom?
"28"
7. How tall is your Mom?
"9 feet tall."
8. What is her favorite thing to do?
"Hang out with her kids."
9. What does your Mom do when you're not around?
"Get school work ready."
10. If your Mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
"Singing."
11. What is your Mom really good at?
"Teaching us school."
12. What is your Mom not very good at?
"Nothing."
13. What does your Mom do for a job?
"Doctor."
14.What is your Mom's favorite food?
"Mozzarella sticks."
15.What makes you proud of your Mom?
"She listens to me."
16. If your Mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
"Bloo from Fosters Home for Imaginary Friends"
17. What do you and your Mom do together?
"Go to the store."
18. How are you and your Mom the same?
"Same eyes."
19. How are you and your Mom different?
"Our legs."
20. How do you know your Mom loves you?
"Because she's my mom. . . ."
21. Where is your Mom's favorite place to go?
"The bookstore."
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Reality is leaking . . .
My kids are getting older and I am noticing more and more the onset of small doses of reality setting in for them, and I am really just trying to hold there hand through it. It's all I can do. I do try to save them from as much of the ugliness that is out there as I can, call it sheltered if you want, I don't care. They will eventually lose more and more if their innocence and I will slow that process as much and humanly possible. I am not talking about being dishonest or painting a picture that life is all rainbows and butterflies, but just to let them be children and enjoy this time they have of being simply carefree. If today is anything like it was when I was in school, kids just couldn't wait to grow up and we would do almost anything to look, sound or act like we were adults and in the process make a lot of mistakes. So, watching them deal with certain realities has been sad and amazing. Sad because reality is leaking in and amazing because of how they are handling it. They are so compassionate and sensitive and that is something I am going to continue to cultivate in them anyway I can. I want them to have a high regard for life for themselves and everyone around them in every situation. They may be sheltered if that's what some want to call it, but they won't be ignorant and they won't ignore the realities that very soon will be all too real.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Let's see, where to start . . .
I have a job now. I work at Spectrum Health (Butterworth). I like it, I get to work all over the hospital cleaning up after people so I am pretty qualified in that area. I spend most of my time on the neonatal floor right now but I am training in others.
God has shown me a lot in the last month, about how much he loves us and that I really cannot comprehend it nearly what I thought I could. The more I think I figure it out the more questions I have as far as why, when and everything else. So I am also learning to not assume, I can't put God in a box, He is way to awesome for that.
Josh has a new job, he started today. Not exactly sure of his title but, since he knows how to do just about every aspect in the field of construction I think that is what he's doing - a little of everything. I am sure he is relieved to be getting out of the house and out of his Mr. Mom role of the last few weeks - which he was amazing at by the way.
Most recently and much more exciting - my brother and his wife had their very first baby yesterday! Jaxton Michael (Jax), 6lbs 14 oz and 21 inches long. He is a doll and looks just like both of them, maybe a little more like mom right now, but I think he will look more like his daddy as he grows. I held him for a few minutes and he made these sweet little squeaky baby sounds. I think babies are like drugs, after I held him it was like my hormones kicked into overdrive and I was all teary the whole drive home.
So that is kind of a vague overview of the last few weeks, but with the same outcome of me being very thankful, enlightened, confused and tired.
God has shown me a lot in the last month, about how much he loves us and that I really cannot comprehend it nearly what I thought I could. The more I think I figure it out the more questions I have as far as why, when and everything else. So I am also learning to not assume, I can't put God in a box, He is way to awesome for that.
Josh has a new job, he started today. Not exactly sure of his title but, since he knows how to do just about every aspect in the field of construction I think that is what he's doing - a little of everything. I am sure he is relieved to be getting out of the house and out of his Mr. Mom role of the last few weeks - which he was amazing at by the way.
Most recently and much more exciting - my brother and his wife had their very first baby yesterday! Jaxton Michael (Jax), 6lbs 14 oz and 21 inches long. He is a doll and looks just like both of them, maybe a little more like mom right now, but I think he will look more like his daddy as he grows. I held him for a few minutes and he made these sweet little squeaky baby sounds. I think babies are like drugs, after I held him it was like my hormones kicked into overdrive and I was all teary the whole drive home.
So that is kind of a vague overview of the last few weeks, but with the same outcome of me being very thankful, enlightened, confused and tired.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Naps, Oatmeal, Shoes, Bowling Alleys, KISS and Popcorn
I took a 15 minute nap today that took and hour and half to complete and felt super rested when I "woke" up.
I had to by all white or all black shoes for work today, which have to be relatively comfortable due to all the walking I will be doing so I also purchased comfy insoles. I am officially the uncoolest person in the world with a style age of 60. Not to mention what my uniform looks like . . . shudder. . .
This is the first time since yesterday I checked my email which is mind blowing, typically I would have checked it two dozen times by noon. Kai wants to know what I'm doing and I tell him "checking my email" and he shakes his head and says "checking your oatmeal, mom?"
Logan twisted his tiny little ankle at the bowling alley yesterday and if he is still limping tomorrow we will have x rays.
Jacob is learning how to play "Rock and Roll All Night" by Kiss on his guitar this week. He has no idea who they are, but likes the song and that's okay.
Zayne is having a cousin spend the night tonight and they are finishing up a game of Break the Ice and are in popcorn and movie heaven.
I had to by all white or all black shoes for work today, which have to be relatively comfortable due to all the walking I will be doing so I also purchased comfy insoles. I am officially the uncoolest person in the world with a style age of 60. Not to mention what my uniform looks like . . . shudder. . .
This is the first time since yesterday I checked my email which is mind blowing, typically I would have checked it two dozen times by noon. Kai wants to know what I'm doing and I tell him "checking my email" and he shakes his head and says "checking your oatmeal, mom?"
Logan twisted his tiny little ankle at the bowling alley yesterday and if he is still limping tomorrow we will have x rays.
Jacob is learning how to play "Rock and Roll All Night" by Kiss on his guitar this week. He has no idea who they are, but likes the song and that's okay.
Zayne is having a cousin spend the night tonight and they are finishing up a game of Break the Ice and are in popcorn and movie heaven.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Adrift.
Adrift: Seventy-Six Days Lost at Sea
by Steve Callahan
It is a dramatic true story told by the man who lived it.
Here are a few lines and excerpts from the book:
"There is a magnificent intensity in life that comes when we are not in control but are only reacting, living, surviving".
"To go to sea is to get a glimpse of the face of God. It is a wonderful feeling to be so humbled".
"Yet life must be nourished with meaning just as with food."
(He kept a log in his raft and this is an entry around week 2 about the fish he sees regularly and his possible fate) "The Dorado's remain, beautiful, alluring. I ask one to marry me. But her parents will not hear of it. I am not colorful enough. Imagine, bigotry even here! However, they also point out that I do not have a very bright future. It is a reasonable objection."
"We want to think that we are more than that, that we control our lives with our intellect. But now, without civilization clouding the issue, I wonder to what extent intellect is controlled by instinct and culture is the result of raw gut reactions to life."
"It is a view of heaven from a seat in hell." (Observing the rising and setting sun from his raft)
"I am not dying and I am not finding salvation. I am in limbo."
"The heavens have provided me with an unbreakable, immortal, fully guaranteed compass." (Speaking of the stars)
(Around day 30) "In these moments of peace, deprivation seems a strange sort of gift. I find food in a couple of hours fishing each day, and I seek shelter in a rubber tent. How unnecessarily complicated my past life seems. For the first time, I clearly see a vast difference between human needs and human wants. Before this voyage, I always had what I needed - food, shelter, clothing, and companionship - yet I was often dissatisfied when I didn't get everything I wanted, when people didn't meet my expectations, when a goal was thwarted, or when I couldn't acquire some material goody. My plight has given me a strange kind of wealth, the most important kind. I value each moment that is not spent in pain, desperation, hunger, thirst, or loneliness. Even here, there in richness all around me. As I look out of the raft, I see God's face in the smooth waves, His grace in the dorado's swim, feel his breath against my cheek as it sweeps down from the sky. I see that all of creation is made in His image. . ."
"I am awed by the intricate perfection of the world in which I find myself."
by Steve Callahan
It is a dramatic true story told by the man who lived it.
Here are a few lines and excerpts from the book:
"There is a magnificent intensity in life that comes when we are not in control but are only reacting, living, surviving".
"To go to sea is to get a glimpse of the face of God. It is a wonderful feeling to be so humbled".
"Yet life must be nourished with meaning just as with food."
(He kept a log in his raft and this is an entry around week 2 about the fish he sees regularly and his possible fate) "The Dorado's remain, beautiful, alluring. I ask one to marry me. But her parents will not hear of it. I am not colorful enough. Imagine, bigotry even here! However, they also point out that I do not have a very bright future. It is a reasonable objection."
"We want to think that we are more than that, that we control our lives with our intellect. But now, without civilization clouding the issue, I wonder to what extent intellect is controlled by instinct and culture is the result of raw gut reactions to life."
"It is a view of heaven from a seat in hell." (Observing the rising and setting sun from his raft)
"I am not dying and I am not finding salvation. I am in limbo."
"The heavens have provided me with an unbreakable, immortal, fully guaranteed compass." (Speaking of the stars)
(Around day 30) "In these moments of peace, deprivation seems a strange sort of gift. I find food in a couple of hours fishing each day, and I seek shelter in a rubber tent. How unnecessarily complicated my past life seems. For the first time, I clearly see a vast difference between human needs and human wants. Before this voyage, I always had what I needed - food, shelter, clothing, and companionship - yet I was often dissatisfied when I didn't get everything I wanted, when people didn't meet my expectations, when a goal was thwarted, or when I couldn't acquire some material goody. My plight has given me a strange kind of wealth, the most important kind. I value each moment that is not spent in pain, desperation, hunger, thirst, or loneliness. Even here, there in richness all around me. As I look out of the raft, I see God's face in the smooth waves, His grace in the dorado's swim, feel his breath against my cheek as it sweeps down from the sky. I see that all of creation is made in His image. . ."
"I am awed by the intricate perfection of the world in which I find myself."
A day to remember.
January 8, 2009
Today was such a good day. Everyday is a good day, but today was one of those days that you have and you hold on to. Today was met with calmness and a rare cooperation on every ones part. Schooling was a joy, nap time was lovely, the library was quiet, hide and seek was comedic, reading was constant and dinner was yummy. Today was a reminder of all the hard work we do put in, and a little glimpse at the pay off.
Lord, Thank You for today and the time we had together. All good things come from You and today was a good thing.
Today was such a good day. Everyday is a good day, but today was one of those days that you have and you hold on to. Today was met with calmness and a rare cooperation on every ones part. Schooling was a joy, nap time was lovely, the library was quiet, hide and seek was comedic, reading was constant and dinner was yummy. Today was a reminder of all the hard work we do put in, and a little glimpse at the pay off.
Lord, Thank You for today and the time we had together. All good things come from You and today was a good thing.
Because.
December 31, 2008
Today I am short two kids and a husband. Zayne decided to "move out" for 10 days to his Great Grandparents house and Josh took Jacob to visit Zayne there. I highly doubt it will last ten days (we are on day two now) but he had fun packing a suit case nonetheless, and he is only a 10 minute drive from home.
The twins are "resting" on the couch while watching a movie. It's hard to argue with two 3 year olds and their logic of not taking a nap because "da sun is up momma - it not dark" with nothing other than "because I said so" which is usually a winning reason, but not today.
So I am sitting at the computer with my ice tea and a half eaten box of Nerds from the Christmas stockings typing . . . why . . . because.
I could make list of things I should be doing (laundry, reading, cleaning, shoveling snow, etc.) but this requires very little thought and movement, and I guess I'm enjoying the quietness that two less kids brings.
On another note:
If you know me at all, you know my diet is lacking in just about everything (hence the box of Nerds), but especially veggies. So I have this dietary supplement I'm taking, which normally I am not a huge fan of, but it's called "It's Greens" and you put two tiny scoops into your Simply Orange O.J. (or water) in the morning and stir it up (which does make it turn a greenish color). It is orange flavored so you can't taste it at all and it has the nutritional value of 8+ servings of fruits and veggies. Not too shabby, and I did feel like I had more energy after drinking it. Who would of thought veggies and fruits are good for you . . . huh.
New Years eve is upon us which marks the 9 year anniversary of the first night I laid eyes on my husband at a party in Portland, Or. Best night of my life. And tonight I will celebrate with him again and any children of ours that can stay awake until midnight. If history has anything to show for it, I will be the first one asleep, I've slept through the last few New Year's quite soundly.
Happy New Year.
Today I am short two kids and a husband. Zayne decided to "move out" for 10 days to his Great Grandparents house and Josh took Jacob to visit Zayne there. I highly doubt it will last ten days (we are on day two now) but he had fun packing a suit case nonetheless, and he is only a 10 minute drive from home.
The twins are "resting" on the couch while watching a movie. It's hard to argue with two 3 year olds and their logic of not taking a nap because "da sun is up momma - it not dark" with nothing other than "because I said so" which is usually a winning reason, but not today.
So I am sitting at the computer with my ice tea and a half eaten box of Nerds from the Christmas stockings typing . . . why . . . because.
I could make list of things I should be doing (laundry, reading, cleaning, shoveling snow, etc.) but this requires very little thought and movement, and I guess I'm enjoying the quietness that two less kids brings.
On another note:
If you know me at all, you know my diet is lacking in just about everything (hence the box of Nerds), but especially veggies. So I have this dietary supplement I'm taking, which normally I am not a huge fan of, but it's called "It's Greens" and you put two tiny scoops into your Simply Orange O.J. (or water) in the morning and stir it up (which does make it turn a greenish color). It is orange flavored so you can't taste it at all and it has the nutritional value of 8+ servings of fruits and veggies. Not too shabby, and I did feel like I had more energy after drinking it. Who would of thought veggies and fruits are good for you . . . huh.
New Years eve is upon us which marks the 9 year anniversary of the first night I laid eyes on my husband at a party in Portland, Or. Best night of my life. And tonight I will celebrate with him again and any children of ours that can stay awake until midnight. If history has anything to show for it, I will be the first one asleep, I've slept through the last few New Year's quite soundly.
Happy New Year.
This Weather.
December 23, 2008
Ugh.
This is the first time in over 4 years we've been here for winter longer than a couple of weeks. It hasn't stopped snowing for 3 days. The wind chill is 10 below zero.
It's only December.
The snow is pretty and the kids have fun playing in it. It take 3 times longer to get them ready than the actual amount of time they last out in the cold. They are used to NC winters, where it snows once a year and we can get away with jeans and sweatshirt usually.
The ice storms (which we haven't had yet) are stunning, everything all shiny and covered in ice. But if you don't lose power you're lucky, and hopefully your fridge is stocked because four wheel drive can go do so much (and not much on ice).
Josh and I were headed out one day and found a guy in his truck near a particularly flat area of land, and he was literally being buried by the drifting snow. We stopped to help him out, which was a good thing because he didn't know the name of the road he was on let alone have a number for a tow truck.
So far this week Josh has helped dig out 2 cars, a truck and trailer and a UPS truck, and shoveled driveway after driveway.
I am praying when and if ((when)) we move it better be right on the equator, and I am seriously considering going pro-global warming.
Brrr. I am cold.
P.S. If you live somewhere warm you are prohibited from commenting on this ;0)
Ugh.
This is the first time in over 4 years we've been here for winter longer than a couple of weeks. It hasn't stopped snowing for 3 days. The wind chill is 10 below zero.
It's only December.
The snow is pretty and the kids have fun playing in it. It take 3 times longer to get them ready than the actual amount of time they last out in the cold. They are used to NC winters, where it snows once a year and we can get away with jeans and sweatshirt usually.
The ice storms (which we haven't had yet) are stunning, everything all shiny and covered in ice. But if you don't lose power you're lucky, and hopefully your fridge is stocked because four wheel drive can go do so much (and not much on ice).
Josh and I were headed out one day and found a guy in his truck near a particularly flat area of land, and he was literally being buried by the drifting snow. We stopped to help him out, which was a good thing because he didn't know the name of the road he was on let alone have a number for a tow truck.
So far this week Josh has helped dig out 2 cars, a truck and trailer and a UPS truck, and shoveled driveway after driveway.
I am praying when and if ((when)) we move it better be right on the equator, and I am seriously considering going pro-global warming.
Brrr. I am cold.
P.S. If you live somewhere warm you are prohibited from commenting on this ;0)
Peach and Pepper.
December 11, 2008
My husband will eat any kind of food imaginable, and today at breakfast I could barley even look at what he was eating.
Toast with home made Peach and Jelapeno Pepper Jam.
Really? Who eats that! I am a very picky eater, I am aware of that. More so than a regular picky eater.
Peach and peppers? Ick.
My husband will eat any kind of food imaginable, and today at breakfast I could barley even look at what he was eating.
Toast with home made Peach and Jelapeno Pepper Jam.
Really? Who eats that! I am a very picky eater, I am aware of that. More so than a regular picky eater.
Peach and peppers? Ick.
Don't forget.
December 5, 2008
Something I never, ever want to forget is how my kids talk and sound at these ages. I write down some of the cute things they say, and my mom (aka Super Grandma) records their little voices from time to time. Jacob asks the sweetest questions, so innocent. Zayne cracks us up with his sarcasm which runs deeply in both our families, and it's not uncommon to hear him say "Word up dad" or "You want a piece of me, bring it on!" Kai is just plain adorable, he was eating a blueberry jam and peanut butter sandwich and before every bite he said "I dunt ike boo berry" then took a bite and yelled "I ike boooooo beeerrryy!" Logan, understands everything all too well, only speaks in sentence fragments I can interpret, and he is also really big on repetition with his words. So we have to be very clear we heard him the first time, otherwise we don't hear the end of it. His tiny little body is no match for a huge deep voice. We read a book called "No Moon, No Milk" the other day about a cow who wants to travel to the moon. And the lengthy discussion regarding what udders are and what they are not was interesting and had to be revisited on every page. I love their points of view, very refreshing and entertaining. I hope I don't forget.
Something I never, ever want to forget is how my kids talk and sound at these ages. I write down some of the cute things they say, and my mom (aka Super Grandma) records their little voices from time to time. Jacob asks the sweetest questions, so innocent. Zayne cracks us up with his sarcasm which runs deeply in both our families, and it's not uncommon to hear him say "Word up dad" or "You want a piece of me, bring it on!" Kai is just plain adorable, he was eating a blueberry jam and peanut butter sandwich and before every bite he said "I dunt ike boo berry" then took a bite and yelled "I ike boooooo beeerrryy!" Logan, understands everything all too well, only speaks in sentence fragments I can interpret, and he is also really big on repetition with his words. So we have to be very clear we heard him the first time, otherwise we don't hear the end of it. His tiny little body is no match for a huge deep voice. We read a book called "No Moon, No Milk" the other day about a cow who wants to travel to the moon. And the lengthy discussion regarding what udders are and what they are not was interesting and had to be revisited on every page. I love their points of view, very refreshing and entertaining. I hope I don't forget.
To Fluoride or not to Fluoride, that is the question.
November 20, 2008
The boys have been using (Fluoride Free) Silly Strawberry Toothpaste by Tom's of Maine which they love. But we went to the dentist today and they both have cavities. They rarely drink soda or juice (maybe once or twice every few weeks), only milk and water and they brush and floss. They asked me if my almost 8 and almost 6 year old drank out of sippy cups! WHAT?! Uhm, no they don't. I understand the fluoride free thing has a lot to do with it, but I thought perhaps healthy diet and good oral hygiene would make up for it. Apparently not. So they recommended Crest products saying it has the right amount of fluoride in it to protect their teeth, and maybe I'm being a brat about it but, the glitter and bubble gum flavors aren't really what I was aiming for. We may just switch over to the Tom's of Maine Anticavity Toothpaste, easy enough to do.
The boys have been using (Fluoride Free) Silly Strawberry Toothpaste by Tom's of Maine which they love. But we went to the dentist today and they both have cavities. They rarely drink soda or juice (maybe once or twice every few weeks), only milk and water and they brush and floss. They asked me if my almost 8 and almost 6 year old drank out of sippy cups! WHAT?! Uhm, no they don't. I understand the fluoride free thing has a lot to do with it, but I thought perhaps healthy diet and good oral hygiene would make up for it. Apparently not. So they recommended Crest products saying it has the right amount of fluoride in it to protect their teeth, and maybe I'm being a brat about it but, the glitter and bubble gum flavors aren't really what I was aiming for. We may just switch over to the Tom's of Maine Anticavity Toothpaste, easy enough to do.
Alot for an hour and a half on Sunday morning.
November 16, 2008
We went to church this morning. It's a church we've visited a few times before when we'd visit Michigan, I've always liked it but doubted it was a place I would actually want to settle into for various reasons. But we'd gone a couple times since moving back here and as shallow as it may sound, the clincher to choosing to stay there was that the twins don't scream the whole time they are in their class. I love the church's involvement in community and outreach to people. And after the last couple of Sunday's the main reason I want to stay is that the messages continue to stretch me a little more every time, it's making my faith bigger. Today was about suffering and whether God allows it or causes it. Touchy topic, depending on what you believe and being someone, who on the scale of suffering doesn't even register, it's hard for me to come close to imagining what it actually means to suffer. I've seen suffering, but it can be so far away most of the time that it fades quickly, too quickly. I don't want to forget about it, I want to change it, stop it, make it better. I believe we learn more when we have the hard days and then the easy days we take for granted. And if we're being honest, most of our days are easy days. People like to ask "Where was God when this or that happened?" and my question is "Where were you?" God has put us here to be the hope and help people need. I also believe God was there the whole time, just not like you'd think. So church today was kind of deep for me, and made me ask my own questions about suffering and my part (or lack of) in relieving some of that pain for others. It meant something to me, enough to share on here so, take it for what you want. I am refusing to be numb to a God who loves in a world that hurts. Whether it's a friend or a stranger across the planet, I am called to help, and so are you.
We went to church this morning. It's a church we've visited a few times before when we'd visit Michigan, I've always liked it but doubted it was a place I would actually want to settle into for various reasons. But we'd gone a couple times since moving back here and as shallow as it may sound, the clincher to choosing to stay there was that the twins don't scream the whole time they are in their class. I love the church's involvement in community and outreach to people. And after the last couple of Sunday's the main reason I want to stay is that the messages continue to stretch me a little more every time, it's making my faith bigger. Today was about suffering and whether God allows it or causes it. Touchy topic, depending on what you believe and being someone, who on the scale of suffering doesn't even register, it's hard for me to come close to imagining what it actually means to suffer. I've seen suffering, but it can be so far away most of the time that it fades quickly, too quickly. I don't want to forget about it, I want to change it, stop it, make it better. I believe we learn more when we have the hard days and then the easy days we take for granted. And if we're being honest, most of our days are easy days. People like to ask "Where was God when this or that happened?" and my question is "Where were you?" God has put us here to be the hope and help people need. I also believe God was there the whole time, just not like you'd think. So church today was kind of deep for me, and made me ask my own questions about suffering and my part (or lack of) in relieving some of that pain for others. It meant something to me, enough to share on here so, take it for what you want. I am refusing to be numb to a God who loves in a world that hurts. Whether it's a friend or a stranger across the planet, I am called to help, and so are you.
Dr. Laura
November 14, 2008
I love talk radio. And for the past few weeks I have been finding the good AM stations here in Michigan and figuring out who's on when and where. I used to listen to Dr. Laura when I worked before Zayne was born and I found her again this week. Whether you love her or you hate her she is a riot to listen to. She is beyond to the point and has zero time for ignorance. There are times when I cringe at her answers to peoples questions, because she is rarely sensitive, but, these people are listening to the show and they know how she rolls. You get the occasional callers who make me wonder how they dress themselves in the morning or dial a phone, let alone maintain a relationship. She has a pretty good sense of weeding out the folks who just want to complain and be the victim. It's like a reality t.v. train wreck, only in the car. Not all calls are like that, there are some legitimate questions and Dr. Laura's answers are very clear and free of bull*!% which can be hard to come by. Not many people want to hear the truth, they'd rather settle for a lie. So I enjoy her show and her insight. I may not agree all the time, but I doubt she'd care!
I love talk radio. And for the past few weeks I have been finding the good AM stations here in Michigan and figuring out who's on when and where. I used to listen to Dr. Laura when I worked before Zayne was born and I found her again this week. Whether you love her or you hate her she is a riot to listen to. She is beyond to the point and has zero time for ignorance. There are times when I cringe at her answers to peoples questions, because she is rarely sensitive, but, these people are listening to the show and they know how she rolls. You get the occasional callers who make me wonder how they dress themselves in the morning or dial a phone, let alone maintain a relationship. She has a pretty good sense of weeding out the folks who just want to complain and be the victim. It's like a reality t.v. train wreck, only in the car. Not all calls are like that, there are some legitimate questions and Dr. Laura's answers are very clear and free of bull*!% which can be hard to come by. Not many people want to hear the truth, they'd rather settle for a lie. So I enjoy her show and her insight. I may not agree all the time, but I doubt she'd care!
My hope.
November 10, 2008
Any hope worth talking about must refer to something within the realm of possibility. Our hope is a reality for us - not just a desirable possibility, not a dream or fantasy, but something guaranteed by promises centered in Christ.
Hope must have reference only to things yet to come. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11.
My hope is the confident expectation of the future events based on the promise of God. It removes the element of doubt; it dismisses as mere superstition the suggestion of luck; it clings by faith to the divine decree when circumstances seem to give lie to it. That by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we may have strong encouragement, we who have fled for refuge in laying hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both steadfast and sure and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us.
Any hope worth talking about must refer to something within the realm of possibility. Our hope is a reality for us - not just a desirable possibility, not a dream or fantasy, but something guaranteed by promises centered in Christ.
Hope must have reference only to things yet to come. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11.
My hope is the confident expectation of the future events based on the promise of God. It removes the element of doubt; it dismisses as mere superstition the suggestion of luck; it clings by faith to the divine decree when circumstances seem to give lie to it. That by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we may have strong encouragement, we who have fled for refuge in laying hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both steadfast and sure and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us.
Your Grounded!
November 5, 2008
After a week in Florida and a slow start getting back on schedule with school, Jacob had a rough day getting to work. Once he starts he's fine but getting started proves to be a struggle (it was Monday). So yesterday, he had a particularly bad attitude, so I grounded him. It's school work, not an option and I expect it to be done in a timely manner with something that resembles a good attitude. The problem however arises in the fact that the idea of the "grounding" was successful, I had a hard time coming up with what he was grounded from. On a typical day we have school, play, guitar lessons, maybe the library, Grandma's house, and then add in the nessecities of eating, errands, and the general craziness of 4 kids. There are no video games, hours of t.v., computer games or anything, to take away from him as a consequence. I could give him more school work, but ultimately that requires me to continue the Monday battle. So anyway, I don't really have a point other than apparently today I ran out of creative disciplinary tactics.
After a week in Florida and a slow start getting back on schedule with school, Jacob had a rough day getting to work. Once he starts he's fine but getting started proves to be a struggle (it was Monday). So yesterday, he had a particularly bad attitude, so I grounded him. It's school work, not an option and I expect it to be done in a timely manner with something that resembles a good attitude. The problem however arises in the fact that the idea of the "grounding" was successful, I had a hard time coming up with what he was grounded from. On a typical day we have school, play, guitar lessons, maybe the library, Grandma's house, and then add in the nessecities of eating, errands, and the general craziness of 4 kids. There are no video games, hours of t.v., computer games or anything, to take away from him as a consequence. I could give him more school work, but ultimately that requires me to continue the Monday battle. So anyway, I don't really have a point other than apparently today I ran out of creative disciplinary tactics.
Change is good.
October 9, 2008
So lets see, a lot has changed in the past 5 years. Our huge move to NC with our two boys, Josh's job change, our wonderful surprise twin boys, another address change, another job change, switching to home schooling, a beautiful trip to Oregon that wasn't nearly long enough and finally another address and job change. Well, not finally, but for now. Then there are the more recent changes, like oceans for lakes, warm swimming pools for warm campfires, friends who are like family for family who are like friends and the all important diapers for underwear ( a.k.a. diaper rash for skid marks). Change can be messy but good. We're not the same as when we left Michigan and we won't be the same when we leave again. All by the grace of God, Josh and I are still in love, and everyday we choose to love each other better, we're still parents and everyday we choose to raise our kids together. We've strived and struggled in our own independence long enough. So this change is good.
So lets see, a lot has changed in the past 5 years. Our huge move to NC with our two boys, Josh's job change, our wonderful surprise twin boys, another address change, another job change, switching to home schooling, a beautiful trip to Oregon that wasn't nearly long enough and finally another address and job change. Well, not finally, but for now. Then there are the more recent changes, like oceans for lakes, warm swimming pools for warm campfires, friends who are like family for family who are like friends and the all important diapers for underwear ( a.k.a. diaper rash for skid marks). Change can be messy but good. We're not the same as when we left Michigan and we won't be the same when we leave again. All by the grace of God, Josh and I are still in love, and everyday we choose to love each other better, we're still parents and everyday we choose to raise our kids together. We've strived and struggled in our own independence long enough. So this change is good.
The move.
September 12, 2008
We are moving back to Michigan. Why? Lots of reasons. We have loved our time here in North Carolina, it gave us the opportunity to become our own family, rely on each other and find out what God really wants that to look like. We have made friends here that are irreplaceable and have become more like family. As sad as it is to leave them, we know we'll always be there for each other with out question. People like that are hard to come by. It has seemed for a time that all of our commitments were slowly coming to an end and now we are free to move on. We are moving back to family and old friends, a new job, and at the first of the year a new niece or nephew. We're excited to reconnect with everybody, find a new church and wait for the next step.
We are moving back to Michigan. Why? Lots of reasons. We have loved our time here in North Carolina, it gave us the opportunity to become our own family, rely on each other and find out what God really wants that to look like. We have made friends here that are irreplaceable and have become more like family. As sad as it is to leave them, we know we'll always be there for each other with out question. People like that are hard to come by. It has seemed for a time that all of our commitments were slowly coming to an end and now we are free to move on. We are moving back to family and old friends, a new job, and at the first of the year a new niece or nephew. We're excited to reconnect with everybody, find a new church and wait for the next step.
Hold the diapers and add a side of anticipation.
September 6, 2008
They were ready to start before I was but now, Kai and Logan are officially potty trained. We have been buying diapers consistently for the past 7 years. I am so amazed at how well they've done, way better than Jacob or Zayne ever did. It only took about 3 or 4 days and now they are telling us when they have to go versus us reminding them. I still have a fully loaded bag packed, with extra everything in the event of an accident, and I get a little nervous if we're at the pool or out of the house for awhile. But give it a week, and I get to carry a purse. Not a back pack, not a diaper bag, not a purse the size of a duffel bag, a real purse. With only my stuff in it! (Well . . . and band-aids, granola bars, antibiotic ointment, hand sanitizer, wet-wipes, a few boxes of raisins, tissues . . .)
Diaper free and it feels so good.
They were ready to start before I was but now, Kai and Logan are officially potty trained. We have been buying diapers consistently for the past 7 years. I am so amazed at how well they've done, way better than Jacob or Zayne ever did. It only took about 3 or 4 days and now they are telling us when they have to go versus us reminding them. I still have a fully loaded bag packed, with extra everything in the event of an accident, and I get a little nervous if we're at the pool or out of the house for awhile. But give it a week, and I get to carry a purse. Not a back pack, not a diaper bag, not a purse the size of a duffel bag, a real purse. With only my stuff in it! (Well . . . and band-aids, granola bars, antibiotic ointment, hand sanitizer, wet-wipes, a few boxes of raisins, tissues . . .)
Diaper free and it feels so good.
I love.
August 26, 2008
I without a doubt love, love, love being with my kids. I love teaching them. I love watching them learn and play and talk and laugh. I love it when they ask questions even when I don't know the answers. I love it when they ask and figure it out for themselves. I love how they pray, full of faith and to the point. I love watching them become their own person. I love that we can put school off until after lunch just so we can play in the rain. I love that they request nicknames like "Bone Crusher" and that I dye their hair blue. I love that they want to just sit and draw even if it is on the walls sometimes. I love how simple everything is to them and how much they teach me.
I love being their mom.
I without a doubt love, love, love being with my kids. I love teaching them. I love watching them learn and play and talk and laugh. I love it when they ask questions even when I don't know the answers. I love it when they ask and figure it out for themselves. I love how they pray, full of faith and to the point. I love watching them become their own person. I love that we can put school off until after lunch just so we can play in the rain. I love that they request nicknames like "Bone Crusher" and that I dye their hair blue. I love that they want to just sit and draw even if it is on the walls sometimes. I love how simple everything is to them and how much they teach me.
I love being their mom.
Just a thought.
August 11, 2008
As a mother of four boys, I've had my share of doctor appointments and emergency room visits. And up until shortly before the twins were born, I never questioned it. If they got sick I took them to the doctor, they got all there routine vaccinations, and well child check ups. Since then though, I've met parents who have questioned that course of care and I in turn questioned them. One incident that happened right before Jacob started school increased my level of worry.
Jacob's immunizations were all up to date (in Michigan) but he had to have a booster to get into pre school. I took him to the doctor and because they didn't have North Carolina records of his shots, when we entered the room there was a stack of needles on the counter. They were going to give him every shot he needed in one sitting. Multiple injections that are usually spread out over the course of a couple years, shots that were already cocktails in themselves. I explained the situation, and he got the one booster and we were on our way. But still, what if, as a parent I didn't know any better.
Which leads me to this book I'm reading, "How to Raise a Healthy Child...In Spite of Your Doctor" by Robert S. Mendelsohn, M.D.
It's not inconclusive, but it is eye opening. So here is some of what it says in the first chapter:
At least 95 percent of the ailments that children are prey to will heal themselves and do not require medical attention.
Too often, the risk of careless or needless medical intervention is greater than the dangers of the illness itself.
Pediatricians spend most of their time treating parental distress. The child rarely needs treatment but gets it anyway and is subjected to the consequences, and it is the parent who gets the relief.
At least 90 percent of the drugs prescribed by pediatricians are unnecessary and at costly risk to the child who takes them. All drugs are toxic and thus dangerous.
Most pediatricians have received little or no education covering the fundamentals of nutrition and pharmacology, and no emphasis is placed on these vital subjects in medical school. Their patients suffer because of the pediatricians ignorance of the impact of diet on health and of the hazards and side effects of the drugs he prescribes.
I am very thankful for doctors and that they are readily available when needed. And they are needed, we have had to have emergency surgeries, fractures x-rayed, foriegn objects removed and other important procedures, it's the routine stuff that I'm questioning. That adds up. And don't get me started on the cost of care or insurance. In some states you can choose not to vaccinate your child due to religious or other beliefs. We have made the choice to home school the boys so even though they are up to date they aren't necessary. Either way bombarding your kid with cocktails of shots 2 or 3 at a time or avoiding them altogether doesn't make total sense.
Happenings.
July 30, 2008
We are home sweet home. The boys and I just returned from 2 and a half weeks in Oregon with family and then a quick weekend trip to Michigan to visit more family, and it is wonderful to be home. Oregon was beautiful, I didn't remember it being so pretty. I got to see my very best friend Crystal and her daughter, who both mean so very much to me. So far we manage about 2 or 3 hours together every 3 or 4 years. Not even close to being enough. We stayed with Josh's family who were so amazingly gracious and took very good care of us while we were so far from home. I got to spend time with my sisters-in-law who are the best sisters I could ever ask for. We flew back and were home for maybe a week and then headed to Michigan, Josh was supposed to come with us but things came up at work so we made the quick trip alone. I got to be part of the Rally for Hunger my dad helps to organize every year. Over 400 bikers raised thousands of dollars to feed the hungry. I've been before, but this time I helped with registration and got to talk to a lot of the folks. Then my dad and I led the ride on his Harley to the event following, a concert, food, auctions, etc. So now we are home and unpacked. Just in time to start another crazy month.
We are home sweet home. The boys and I just returned from 2 and a half weeks in Oregon with family and then a quick weekend trip to Michigan to visit more family, and it is wonderful to be home. Oregon was beautiful, I didn't remember it being so pretty. I got to see my very best friend Crystal and her daughter, who both mean so very much to me. So far we manage about 2 or 3 hours together every 3 or 4 years. Not even close to being enough. We stayed with Josh's family who were so amazingly gracious and took very good care of us while we were so far from home. I got to spend time with my sisters-in-law who are the best sisters I could ever ask for. We flew back and were home for maybe a week and then headed to Michigan, Josh was supposed to come with us but things came up at work so we made the quick trip alone. I got to be part of the Rally for Hunger my dad helps to organize every year. Over 400 bikers raised thousands of dollars to feed the hungry. I've been before, but this time I helped with registration and got to talk to a lot of the folks. Then my dad and I led the ride on his Harley to the event following, a concert, food, auctions, etc. So now we are home and unpacked. Just in time to start another crazy month.
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