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Monday, December 10, 2007
Monday, December 3, 2007
Addendum to the cool list
Ok, the santa that turns on my Christmas tree lights by remote did not work for me and is now officially off the cool,things list. Evidently our tree has too many lights (it is a 9 foot tree) and it blew a fuse. The santa is still cool, but only for trees with one set of lights.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
My list of cool things
1. Minimizer bras
2. Aldi's popcorn chicken
3. The Dollar Tree
4. ebay (I bought my first item this week!)
5. My Fuji digital camera with the giant lcd screen
6. student teachers
7. Premier jewelry
8. my AVON santa that turns the tree lights on by remote
9. Dr. Seuss
10. writing love notes on a mirror with a vis a vis marker
11. DVR
12. my care group
These are in no particular order.
Now Add your cool things in a commect to this post!
2. Aldi's popcorn chicken
3. The Dollar Tree
4. ebay (I bought my first item this week!)
5. My Fuji digital camera with the giant lcd screen
6. student teachers
7. Premier jewelry
8. my AVON santa that turns the tree lights on by remote
9. Dr. Seuss
10. writing love notes on a mirror with a vis a vis marker
11. DVR
12. my care group
These are in no particular order.
Now Add your cool things in a commect to this post!
Monday, November 26, 2007
My thanksgiving for Thanksgiving
I had a wonderful holiday weekend. Honestly, this was one of the best in the last 10 years. One of the highlights was spending the night in Walmart, in Bucyrus. My oh so goofy cousins, Donnel and Gina, talked me into this escapade. We went out at around midnight, armed with a blanket and the Black Friday ad. From 1 until about 3, we were about the only shoppers in the store. At 3 or so, more people started showing up. Maps were handed out telling where pallets would be located and the excitement grew. It got a little nerve wracking at 4:30, when I realized there were more people surrounding the pallet then there were items on it. At 5 the announcement was made to "Let the fun begin!" and hands reached from all around me ripping at the shrink wrap on the items. I did manage to get everything I wanted! And I had an adventure to boot! Of course, I wasted all the money I saved when I got pulled over for speeding on the way home to Marion at 6:30 am.
Friday the kids and I went with my in-laws to the Comfort Inn in Bellville to enjoy the water aprk and the Amish restaurant. We stayed until Sunday and had a blast! We taught Larry to play Bull Crap. Good times were had by all!
Of course the Wednseday before Thanksgiving we spent the night with my mom. My three nephews were there also, so all 6 kids enjoyed being together. Mallory especially liked meeting my mom's new dog, Zena. She is a German Shepherd.
All in all, this was one of the best Thanksgivings I can remember!
Friday the kids and I went with my in-laws to the Comfort Inn in Bellville to enjoy the water aprk and the Amish restaurant. We stayed until Sunday and had a blast! We taught Larry to play Bull Crap. Good times were had by all!
Of course the Wednseday before Thanksgiving we spent the night with my mom. My three nephews were there also, so all 6 kids enjoyed being together. Mallory especially liked meeting my mom's new dog, Zena. She is a German Shepherd.
All in all, this was one of the best Thanksgivings I can remember!
Monday, November 12, 2007
My youth group
I am a youth group leader at Trinity and it is a blast! We have kids from 6th grade to seniors in high school, and sometimes older. Each gathering is an adventure and I never know what to expect!
Last night, after studying Thomas and his doubts, we went to the "rec room" to play a game. It was a goofy game, in honor of Thanksgiving approaching, that you would more likely see in an elementary gym. It required two kids to be trees with a turkey trapped between them. When Tony would call out a phrase the kids had to switch up either the trees, the turkeys, or all of the group.
I laughed so hard to see the kids all get really into this game. And I mean all the kids, including the high schoolers. We all got quite competitive and no one wanted to quit. It was so much fun!
When this week gets stressful, I will flash back to the fun we had playing turkeys and trees and laugh again!
Last night, after studying Thomas and his doubts, we went to the "rec room" to play a game. It was a goofy game, in honor of Thanksgiving approaching, that you would more likely see in an elementary gym. It required two kids to be trees with a turkey trapped between them. When Tony would call out a phrase the kids had to switch up either the trees, the turkeys, or all of the group.
I laughed so hard to see the kids all get really into this game. And I mean all the kids, including the high schoolers. We all got quite competitive and no one wanted to quit. It was so much fun!
When this week gets stressful, I will flash back to the fun we had playing turkeys and trees and laugh again!
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Jonah's terminology
Kids say the darndest things....
Jonah went through a week long feeding clinic last winter at Childrens. He needed to learn to eat enough calories per meal without gagging, etc. Randy and I were trained to sit with him and keep him going for 30-45 minutes. We say things like "take a bite" and "good chewing". Jonah has taken to calling the person "feeding" him, the EATER CALLER. Get it? He cracks me up! When it is time for a meal, for him, sometimes we will tell one of our older kids to keep him eating. Then I will hear him yell, "Seth, You're not the eater caller!"
Yesterday, Jonah created a new term. THE FIXER.... here's what happened:
Jonah has a feeding tube port, called a Mickey button. We haven't used it in 8 months, but the doc does not want to take it out until he proves he can gain weight on table food and he gets through the winter illness free. SO he has this button sticking out. We were told it happens at least once for a child to lose their buttons. It has been almost 2 years and we had been fortunate until yesterday.
I got a call from Randy telling me Jonah, who was at our trusted sitter, had lost his button. Randy was at work, as was I, but we both raced to Jana's at the same time. See we were told that after about an hour the hole could seal itself shut and would require surgery to replace. Randy had been trained to put in a new button but had never had to do so, until this day.
When we hurried into Jana's, Jonah was sitting there with a big old band-aid, and he said, "My belly button broke!" We scooped him up and raced for home. Randy got the new kit and called our GI doc from Childrens. She began giving him instructions, step by step. I held Jonah down. You just imagine how he liked that!
Randy was having lots of trouble. It could have been his shaking hands, or just the fact that the hole had already started sealing. He could only get the new port in about 1/4 inch and then it would stop. The doc on the phone kept telling him he had to "dialte" the hole by twisting the tube back and forth.
After 4 tries with no luck, I let go of Jonah and called our pediatrician's office. The doc had already told us we were too far from Childrens to get there before the hole sealed. I was talking to a nurse at Dr. Maur's office, who was telling me that there was nothing they could do and we should go to the er (for $100!). Just I was hanging up the phone, Randy got it to pop in! Hurray! Once Jonah calmed down and quit crying, he looked at Randy and said, "Daddy you are THE FIXER!"
Jonah went through a week long feeding clinic last winter at Childrens. He needed to learn to eat enough calories per meal without gagging, etc. Randy and I were trained to sit with him and keep him going for 30-45 minutes. We say things like "take a bite" and "good chewing". Jonah has taken to calling the person "feeding" him, the EATER CALLER. Get it? He cracks me up! When it is time for a meal, for him, sometimes we will tell one of our older kids to keep him eating. Then I will hear him yell, "Seth, You're not the eater caller!"
Yesterday, Jonah created a new term. THE FIXER.... here's what happened:
Jonah has a feeding tube port, called a Mickey button. We haven't used it in 8 months, but the doc does not want to take it out until he proves he can gain weight on table food and he gets through the winter illness free. SO he has this button sticking out. We were told it happens at least once for a child to lose their buttons. It has been almost 2 years and we had been fortunate until yesterday.
I got a call from Randy telling me Jonah, who was at our trusted sitter, had lost his button. Randy was at work, as was I, but we both raced to Jana's at the same time. See we were told that after about an hour the hole could seal itself shut and would require surgery to replace. Randy had been trained to put in a new button but had never had to do so, until this day.
When we hurried into Jana's, Jonah was sitting there with a big old band-aid, and he said, "My belly button broke!" We scooped him up and raced for home. Randy got the new kit and called our GI doc from Childrens. She began giving him instructions, step by step. I held Jonah down. You just imagine how he liked that!
Randy was having lots of trouble. It could have been his shaking hands, or just the fact that the hole had already started sealing. He could only get the new port in about 1/4 inch and then it would stop. The doc on the phone kept telling him he had to "dialte" the hole by twisting the tube back and forth.
After 4 tries with no luck, I let go of Jonah and called our pediatrician's office. The doc had already told us we were too far from Childrens to get there before the hole sealed. I was talking to a nurse at Dr. Maur's office, who was telling me that there was nothing they could do and we should go to the er (for $100!). Just I was hanging up the phone, Randy got it to pop in! Hurray! Once Jonah calmed down and quit crying, he looked at Randy and said, "Daddy you are THE FIXER!"
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Mallory's forgetfulness
The title says it all. All kids forget things from time to time, but Mallory has had a particularly bad week. The list of forgotten items is growing quite lengthy. She has forgotten her glasses twice, her retainers twice, her shoes (yes, she actually walked to the car barefoot without noticing!), and today her backpack and jacket for school were left in my car.
I gave the whole list so that you would understand the depth of my frustration. That way you might not judge me so harshly for what I did today.....
During my planning time, I ran out and jumped in the car to drive to Mallory's school to deliver the forgotten items. Many of you parents feel my pain I am sure. Upon arrival at the school, I went to the office to deliver Mal's stuff. The secretary gave me my oppurtunity....she asked me to deliver the stuff to Mallory's classroom. That is when my diabolical plan, called Embarrass Mallory, hatched. I showed up in Mallory's classroom doorway and called out, "MMMMaaallloorrrry!" in a singsong voice. Then I spotted her in her seat, went over, handed her her backpack and draped her jacket over her chair. I patted her on the back and sang out, "Goodbye!" Mal's teacher, Mrs. White said, " Tell your mom thank you." Mallory muttered, "No." And I said, "You are lucky I didn't kiss you with lipstick on!"
So judge me if you must, but I am hoping Mallory won't be forgetting things as much in the future!
I gave the whole list so that you would understand the depth of my frustration. That way you might not judge me so harshly for what I did today.....
During my planning time, I ran out and jumped in the car to drive to Mallory's school to deliver the forgotten items. Many of you parents feel my pain I am sure. Upon arrival at the school, I went to the office to deliver Mal's stuff. The secretary gave me my oppurtunity....she asked me to deliver the stuff to Mallory's classroom. That is when my diabolical plan, called Embarrass Mallory, hatched. I showed up in Mallory's classroom doorway and called out, "MMMMaaallloorrrry!" in a singsong voice. Then I spotted her in her seat, went over, handed her her backpack and draped her jacket over her chair. I patted her on the back and sang out, "Goodbye!" Mal's teacher, Mrs. White said, " Tell your mom thank you." Mallory muttered, "No." And I said, "You are lucky I didn't kiss you with lipstick on!"
So judge me if you must, but I am hoping Mallory won't be forgetting things as much in the future!
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Freedom Writers
My student teacher started taking over my classes today. She is teaching a series of lessons based on the movie, Freedom Writer. This is one of my favorite movies! It is the true story about Erin Gruell, who chose to teach at an inner city school that had a well deserved bad reputation. Of course, since I am a teacher, I find this type of movie inspiring. I recommend it for everyone!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Trick or Treat
This year we will again be trick or treating with Angie Castle and her kids.
Mallory is dressing as a pink leopard like cat. I like to call her a cheetah girl but she prefers kittycat. She tied for 1st this year in the church harvest fest, with Nolan Anderson, who dressed as a rainbow singer. Mallory has gotten 1st for 4 years in a row now! Her reign continues...... You should know that they vote by applause and Mallory has a loud obnoxious mom :).
Jonah is an OSU buckeuye this year. He has a jersey, with shoulder pads, pants and a helmet. Too cute if I do say so myself! The helmet is just a little too big and falss over his eyes sometimes.
I think Seth is undecided. He might sit this one out since he is 12, almost 13. He does have a basketball head to wear if he becomes a child again in time for trick or treat!
Mallory is dressing as a pink leopard like cat. I like to call her a cheetah girl but she prefers kittycat. She tied for 1st this year in the church harvest fest, with Nolan Anderson, who dressed as a rainbow singer. Mallory has gotten 1st for 4 years in a row now! Her reign continues...... You should know that they vote by applause and Mallory has a loud obnoxious mom :).
Jonah is an OSU buckeuye this year. He has a jersey, with shoulder pads, pants and a helmet. Too cute if I do say so myself! The helmet is just a little too big and falss over his eyes sometimes.
I think Seth is undecided. He might sit this one out since he is 12, almost 13. He does have a basketball head to wear if he becomes a child again in time for trick or treat!
Jonah says the cutest things
Let me preface this by telling you that when Jonah feels hunger, which is not very often, he says that his tummy is rumbly.
Ok, so we are in the Expedition, on St. Rt. 23, heading to Newmans-Cardington Rd. and home. I have my turn signal on in plenty of time but the very kind and thoughtful drivers coming up behind me refuse to get over in the right hand lane. It happens, right? So I am forced onto the rumble strips on the berm before I make my turn. If you have ever driven on rumble strips, you know they got there name for a good reason~ they rumble! After turning safely, Jonah calls out, from the back seat, "What was that!??" I explain that the noise came from rumble strips on the road. There is a lengthy pause (and I have almost forgotten his question) when Jonah asks, "Why is your car hungry?"
Ok, so we are in the Expedition, on St. Rt. 23, heading to Newmans-Cardington Rd. and home. I have my turn signal on in plenty of time but the very kind and thoughtful drivers coming up behind me refuse to get over in the right hand lane. It happens, right? So I am forced onto the rumble strips on the berm before I make my turn. If you have ever driven on rumble strips, you know they got there name for a good reason~ they rumble! After turning safely, Jonah calls out, from the back seat, "What was that!??" I explain that the noise came from rumble strips on the road. There is a lengthy pause (and I have almost forgotten his question) when Jonah asks, "Why is your car hungry?"
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Our Little Austin
October 15 was the anniversary of the day I gave birth to Austin Royal Owings. He was stillborn, weighing in at around 1 1/2 pounds and 15 inches in length. I was 26 weeeks along with in the pregnancy and was so excited about him! Randy and I had experienced some secondary infertility and had tried for 23 months to get pregnant with Austin. So you can imagine our excitement when things were moving along. Sadly, Austin stopped moving over the weekend of the 12th and by the time I had a doctor due an ultrasound on Monday the 14th, he was gone. I delivered him the next day, surrounded by the love and support of my care group and church family. We let Mallory name him to help her cope. She had been so anxious to have the baby be born and I wanted to make sure she understood. We had a graveside service on Friday of that week. Steve Roper officiated and we gathered at my care group leaders' house, Gary and Joanie Warner, afterward.
On Austin's actual due date, January 18, my care group gathered again to put together a scrap book, including photos of Austin, song lyrics and poems, and cards from people. Every year on the anniversary this scrapbook comes out of hiding and the memories come flooding back. This scrapbook will always be a cherised item for me. It is full of love and support from many caring people.
I look forward to the day I get to meet Austin and hold him in my arms in Heaven! We miss you Austin!
On Austin's actual due date, January 18, my care group gathered again to put together a scrap book, including photos of Austin, song lyrics and poems, and cards from people. Every year on the anniversary this scrapbook comes out of hiding and the memories come flooding back. This scrapbook will always be a cherised item for me. It is full of love and support from many caring people.
I look forward to the day I get to meet Austin and hold him in my arms in Heaven! We miss you Austin!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Kid Nation
My kids, Seth and Mallory, are hooked on the new tv show, Kid Nation. It is a reality show where 40 kids have been placed in an abandoned old west town and are left to make something of it. There are the usual competitions and drama each week. Last night the discussions focused on religions and how they should be acknowledged. It was fascinating to see the kids try to sort this out. Finally one kid shouts, "This is how wars are started People!" Wow! The town council also gets to award a $20,000 gold star to a kid each week. It has been going to the person who has worked the hardest, but this week it went to the girl who brought peace between the religions.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
The tooth fairy
Help! I think we have been busted by a clever 9 year old. Mallory lost a tooth and decided NOT TO TELL US! She then placed said tooth under her pillow as a test that we, or the tooth fairy, were about to fail. The next day she triumphantly announced that she caught us in a lie and she now knows the truth, there is no tooth fairy! ARRGGGHHH! Busted! If anyone knows a way to recover from that one, I'd like to here about it. :)
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Happy Birthday to Mallory
Yesterday was another milestone for Mallory. She turned 9! I am most surprised by this because she already acts like she is 15 or so.
She loves High School Musical so it was an HSM birthday. She got the chapter book, a poster of Zac Efron, and the cd from HSM2. We took her to eat at one of her favorite places, Red Lobster. She also wore a badge all day that said Happy Birthday so that everyone would know and sing to her. Then when I pick the kids up from Reach, a mid week church program, she complains because everyone sang to her. See what I mean about the 15 year old part?
This Friday she is having 7 of her bff's over for a slumber party. It will be High School Musical heaven!
She loves High School Musical so it was an HSM birthday. She got the chapter book, a poster of Zac Efron, and the cd from HSM2. We took her to eat at one of her favorite places, Red Lobster. She also wore a badge all day that said Happy Birthday so that everyone would know and sing to her. Then when I pick the kids up from Reach, a mid week church program, she complains because everyone sang to her. See what I mean about the 15 year old part?
This Friday she is having 7 of her bff's over for a slumber party. It will be High School Musical heaven!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
WOW! What a weekend!
Revolve was fantastic! It was super high energy with lots of great concerts. The main theme was "Girls are you seen as a treasure or a target by guys, and what can you do about that?" It was very relevant and presented by a hottie, Chad Eastham, who clearly kept the girls' interest. The concerts were by Hawk Nelson, KJ52, Natalie Grant, and Ayiesha Woods. I'll admit I was feeling my age when KJ52 performed. It's all hip hop and I couldn't keep up the hop.
My favorite part had to be the drama team. They were a group of 4 young people who moved me to tears! They were very talented.
We already have seats reserved for next year! www.revolvetour.com
My favorite part had to be the drama team. They were a group of 4 young people who moved me to tears! They were very talented.
We already have seats reserved for next year! www.revolvetour.com
Friday, September 14, 2007
Revolve
Tonight I am headed to Nationwide Arena with 24 other beeeautiful young ladies for the teen conference called Revolve! It is like Women of Faith but for the younger set. This is why I became a youth leader people!!! It is run by Natalie Grant. I also get to see KJ52 and Hawk Nelson! I am pumped....see I am already practicing my teen speak (although I am pretty sure pumped is out by now).
I will let you know how wonderful a we had next week! In the meantime, go to revolvetour.com
I will let you know how wonderful a we had next week! In the meantime, go to revolvetour.com
Thursday, September 13, 2007
A pox on the pox!
Oops! Mallory has shingles. It is very blistery, somewhat painful, sometimes itchy, rash that follows the nerves around one's torso. I should know because I had a very bad case as a child and Seth had them last year. Now it is Mallory's turn. The oops comes in because now 2 babies at the sitters have them and both their moms are teachers. I have cost the school district money for substitutes. Oops! Well not me personally, but you know what I mean.
The weird thing is that both of my kids have gotten this virus. Most of us associate it with older people. The doctors say it is a virus that lies dormant and just flares its ugly head when it feels like it. Once you have the rash you are no longer contagious. That means it was too late by the time we knew Mallory had it. Sorry babies! Sorry Madelyn!
The weird thing is that both of my kids have gotten this virus. Most of us associate it with older people. The doctors say it is a virus that lies dormant and just flares its ugly head when it feels like it. Once you have the rash you are no longer contagious. That means it was too late by the time we knew Mallory had it. Sorry babies! Sorry Madelyn!
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Jonah is sooooo cute! I could eat him!
I have a rockstar on my hands. Jonah has been carrying around Mallory's Barbie guitar fpr a few days now. he even writes his own lyrics. The latest, which I think is a knock off from a new show called Yo Gabba Gabba (where do they get these names?), has one line repeated over and over. It goes like this~
I'm so happyyyyyyyyy when i play with my friends.
repeat and strum as you sing..........
Jonah has also gotten very bossy lately. When I learned the words and tried to join in, this upset him a lot. Evidently this song is only meant to be a solo. I was told to stop singing now! sigh, there was a time when a duet would have been preferred.......
they grow up so fast.
I'm so happyyyyyyyyy when i play with my friends.
repeat and strum as you sing..........
Jonah has also gotten very bossy lately. When I learned the words and tried to join in, this upset him a lot. Evidently this song is only meant to be a solo. I was told to stop singing now! sigh, there was a time when a duet would have been preferred.......
they grow up so fast.
Friday, September 7, 2007
My last birthday in the 30s......sigh
Time keeps marching on. This busy time with young kids seems to be flying too. They, my kids, keep growing up and they won't stop no matter how hard I try to hold on.
This birthday was completely uneventful. I spent it at the famous Marion Popcorn Festival Parade. yeehaw! Mallory rode on a float for Douce Dance, so we were there to cheer her on. Unfortunately the parade was a mess. There was what seemed like an ending to it, yet Mallory's float hadn't come by. Neither had RV's band. Seriously there was a 5 minute gap, and then the rest of the parade came straggling through.
Randy and I did go early and get 2 of my favorites, french fries with vinegar and a lemonade with extra sugar. Happy birthday to me!
A few of my 7th graders recognized my big day. I got a dvd of my favorite movie, High School Musical 2 and a pumpkin.
This birthday was completely uneventful. I spent it at the famous Marion Popcorn Festival Parade. yeehaw! Mallory rode on a float for Douce Dance, so we were there to cheer her on. Unfortunately the parade was a mess. There was what seemed like an ending to it, yet Mallory's float hadn't come by. Neither had RV's band. Seriously there was a 5 minute gap, and then the rest of the parade came straggling through.
Randy and I did go early and get 2 of my favorites, french fries with vinegar and a lemonade with extra sugar. Happy birthday to me!
A few of my 7th graders recognized my big day. I got a dvd of my favorite movie, High School Musical 2 and a pumpkin.
Friday, August 31, 2007
I love kids this age......
I teach 7th graders and I love them! They are quirky and still a little unsure of themselves, but flourish when encouraged.
Today is write a joke day and they are loving it! Most of the jokes they are writing are appropriate for school too. What a bonus! Some of them get to laughing so hard and then have to come and share their joke with me. I love the laughter and the smiles I am seeing today.
Here are some examples:
What is the difference between an elephant and an Michigan cheerleader? About 5 pounds
The toilet in a precinct was stolen. Police have nothing to go on.
People who live in glass houses should change in the basement.
Seth, my 7th grader, who is actually in one of my classes this year, gave me his opinion of me as a teacher the other day. He said I am much happier at school and he likes it. I have thought a lot about that and have concluded that I must seem happier because, at home, I am often giving direction...saying "do this do that." I am glad Seth is seeing this side of me. I also like seeing a different side of Seth too.
Today is write a joke day and they are loving it! Most of the jokes they are writing are appropriate for school too. What a bonus! Some of them get to laughing so hard and then have to come and share their joke with me. I love the laughter and the smiles I am seeing today.
Here are some examples:
What is the difference between an elephant and an Michigan cheerleader? About 5 pounds
The toilet in a precinct was stolen. Police have nothing to go on.
People who live in glass houses should change in the basement.
Seth, my 7th grader, who is actually in one of my classes this year, gave me his opinion of me as a teacher the other day. He said I am much happier at school and he likes it. I have thought a lot about that and have concluded that I must seem happier because, at home, I am often giving direction...saying "do this do that." I am glad Seth is seeing this side of me. I also like seeing a different side of Seth too.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Things that make my day
The way Jonah looks when he comes to greet me straight out of bed.
Listening to Mallory play a solo on the piano.
Watching Seth shoot baskets outside.
My patio that is almost finished!
The note Randy wrote to me on our bathroom mirror....:)
Listening to Mallory play a solo on the piano.
Watching Seth shoot baskets outside.
My patio that is almost finished!
The note Randy wrote to me on our bathroom mirror....:)
Friday, August 24, 2007
Jonah says....
Jonah is 3 and says some cute things. Here are some of them:
alligator= elevator
my nastics= gymnastics
binkie and blankie= pacifier and blanket
music= his stuffed bear that prays and plays a song
cho-lock-et= chocolate
I love you big much!
I need a nappers!
red=any juice that we give him to drink
I'm making a friend= what he says when he wants to cuddle
Dredboom= bedroom
Mowly= Mallory
More later.....
alligator= elevator
my nastics= gymnastics
binkie and blankie= pacifier and blanket
music= his stuffed bear that prays and plays a song
cho-lock-et= chocolate
I love you big much!
I need a nappers!
red=any juice that we give him to drink
I'm making a friend= what he says when he wants to cuddle
Dredboom= bedroom
Mowly= Mallory
More later.....
School Days School Days Good Old Golden Rule Days
Much to my dismay, we are back in school! Don't get me wrong. It is not that I don't love school and fall and all that goes with it. It's the schedule! I get very overwhelmed by the school year schedule. With three kids, all involved in activities, with homework and piano to practice.....not to mention things like eating, bathing, etc. I end up working harder after school than I do during the day!
This fall, Seth is playing soccer and has a practice and a game each week. He also has piano once a week with a (forced) nightly practice. There is his once a week basketball tutoring. He has a middle school group bible study once a week too.
Mallory has soccer, with Randy as her coach. Same once a week practice and game, but of course, on a different night then Seth. She also has piano and a (violently forced) practice. She has dance once a week and Reach, a church program too.
Jonah has gymnastics once a week, which he loves! He wakes up in the morning asking if it is time for my nastics yet. I think that is it for him!
I love that my kids are getting to try lots of different things and have good experiences, but I am worn out!
Can I get an amen?
This fall, Seth is playing soccer and has a practice and a game each week. He also has piano once a week with a (forced) nightly practice. There is his once a week basketball tutoring. He has a middle school group bible study once a week too.
Mallory has soccer, with Randy as her coach. Same once a week practice and game, but of course, on a different night then Seth. She also has piano and a (violently forced) practice. She has dance once a week and Reach, a church program too.
Jonah has gymnastics once a week, which he loves! He wakes up in the morning asking if it is time for my nastics yet. I think that is it for him!
I love that my kids are getting to try lots of different things and have good experiences, but I am worn out!
Can I get an amen?
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
FFR ~Fortner Family Reunion
We just got back from a terriffic week in Gatlinburg Tenn. When I say we, I mean the kids and me. Randy had to work, so I went it alone. I can't complain though because I had 34 other family members around to help out.
I'll be honest, I was a little nervous about how this endeavor would go. You know exactly what I mean....38 family members sharing cabins (which means bathrooms and in some cases beds) and supper for 7 days. There is bound to be some bloodshed. But, I must say, I think it went extremely well. Kudos to my cousin, Donnel, who planned it all.
My favorite day was white water rafting day. This is something I never thought I would ever do, but now am so glad I did and can't wait to go again! Seth won a free pass to raft through our resort (Mountain Loft Resort). I thought to myself, oh crap, now what. I could tell he was really excited about winning the pass and wanted to go. So that night at supper, I put it out there asking who would want to go, still thinking in the back of my mind that other family members would take Seth and I would stay behind. Well it turned out we had a group of 23 rafters. Once I saw that that group included my 68 year old aunt and uncle, I decided to go for it too. We all had a blast and have pics to prove it!
This trip turned out to be so good for our family. We bonded in ways I never expected. I am missing them all already and can't wait until next year!
For those of you who participated, with me, in late night bear hunting at the dumpsters... there is always next time! LOL!
I'll be honest, I was a little nervous about how this endeavor would go. You know exactly what I mean....38 family members sharing cabins (which means bathrooms and in some cases beds) and supper for 7 days. There is bound to be some bloodshed. But, I must say, I think it went extremely well. Kudos to my cousin, Donnel, who planned it all.
My favorite day was white water rafting day. This is something I never thought I would ever do, but now am so glad I did and can't wait to go again! Seth won a free pass to raft through our resort (Mountain Loft Resort). I thought to myself, oh crap, now what. I could tell he was really excited about winning the pass and wanted to go. So that night at supper, I put it out there asking who would want to go, still thinking in the back of my mind that other family members would take Seth and I would stay behind. Well it turned out we had a group of 23 rafters. Once I saw that that group included my 68 year old aunt and uncle, I decided to go for it too. We all had a blast and have pics to prove it!
This trip turned out to be so good for our family. We bonded in ways I never expected. I am missing them all already and can't wait until next year!
For those of you who participated, with me, in late night bear hunting at the dumpsters... there is always next time! LOL!
Saturday, July 7, 2007
The Swimming Pool
It's hard to believe that anyone could ever get tired of the swimming pool, but each summer, we go so much that my kids are ready for a break. When we can't go, we want to and when we can, we don't. Today we went and everyone was relatively happy. Jonah even ventured into the "big pool." He seemed really proud of himself and it was fun to watch trying something new.
We have a membership at Brookside Pool. I especially like it there because it is owned by a Christian family and they often play the Christian radio station over the speaker system. Jonah likes it because they have a dairy bar and he always asks for cho-lock-et ice cream in a bowl. Whenever he asks for anything edoble, it is a big deal!
Mallory went off the low dive many times today! Go Mal! Seth stayed, even after we left, to swim with friends. He is growing up!
Overall, I love the swimming pool!
We have a membership at Brookside Pool. I especially like it there because it is owned by a Christian family and they often play the Christian radio station over the speaker system. Jonah likes it because they have a dairy bar and he always asks for cho-lock-et ice cream in a bowl. Whenever he asks for anything edoble, it is a big deal!
Mallory went off the low dive many times today! Go Mal! Seth stayed, even after we left, to swim with friends. He is growing up!
Overall, I love the swimming pool!
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
I survived the Youth Mission Trip '07
As the title says, I survived! It was a great week overall and I would happily go again! We took a group of 40 to Port Charlotte, Fla. and worked for several groups while there. I even helped build a house!
The theme song of the week was, "Let it Be Said of Us." Not sure by which group, but it is a good song. Tony, the youth director, did a fantastic job with keeping the kids serving and with nightly devos. It was a well done trip all around. The housing was great! We stayed at a Habitat for Humanity volunteer housing center and it was big and had a/c as well as an industrial size kitchen, which we so needed due to many hungry mouths to feed. Lisa Layton was in charge of food. Let me just say that no one went hungry. We ate very well all week!
My favorite day was when Tony and I took the jr. high kids to do odd jobs around Venice. We ended the day at a park where we were asked to look for Gopher Tortoise burrows and mark them with stakes and ribbons so the mowers did not cave them in. We actually came across a real gopher tortoise! It hissed at Tony which made me laugh. Also I didn't know that Tortoises can move so fast!
Seth went along and seemed to enjoy and learn from the trip as well. Randy was there also, as he drove the bus. We tried to stay out of Seth's way as much as possible. lol....
One bummer moment was when I realized I had lost my memory card whichwas full of pics from the trip.... I am praying, but have had no sign of it yet. Must be a mission trip thing with me. Last year, after going to Kenya, I lost my journal on a plane.
Anyway, we talk about our trip and show slides Sunday at church and I can't wait for people to see how God worked through and with these kids this week!
The theme song of the week was, "Let it Be Said of Us." Not sure by which group, but it is a good song. Tony, the youth director, did a fantastic job with keeping the kids serving and with nightly devos. It was a well done trip all around. The housing was great! We stayed at a Habitat for Humanity volunteer housing center and it was big and had a/c as well as an industrial size kitchen, which we so needed due to many hungry mouths to feed. Lisa Layton was in charge of food. Let me just say that no one went hungry. We ate very well all week!
My favorite day was when Tony and I took the jr. high kids to do odd jobs around Venice. We ended the day at a park where we were asked to look for Gopher Tortoise burrows and mark them with stakes and ribbons so the mowers did not cave them in. We actually came across a real gopher tortoise! It hissed at Tony which made me laugh. Also I didn't know that Tortoises can move so fast!
Seth went along and seemed to enjoy and learn from the trip as well. Randy was there also, as he drove the bus. We tried to stay out of Seth's way as much as possible. lol....
One bummer moment was when I realized I had lost my memory card whichwas full of pics from the trip.... I am praying, but have had no sign of it yet. Must be a mission trip thing with me. Last year, after going to Kenya, I lost my journal on a plane.
Anyway, we talk about our trip and show slides Sunday at church and I can't wait for people to see how God worked through and with these kids this week!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
The never ending bus ride
Details later, but Randy, Seth and I leave Saturday at 3 p.m., with our church's youth group, for a mission trip. We are DRIVING all the way to Florida on a school bus. Those who survive the 21 hour straight through trip will be doing some work for Agape missions and Habitat for Humanity. Please pray for safety. Randy is one of two drivers. and I am one of 40 riders.....please Lord, help me not complain! lol
Bedtime routines
I have really been enjoying my time at home with my kids, or should I say with Jonah? You see, Seth is gone all week at camp, and Mallory has spent the last two nights at the houses of friends. She spent last night at Brett and Bailey's and tonight at Jordyn Jackson's. She is spending tomorrow night with Sue Itterly. So you can see why I ammend my statement to say that I am really enjoying my time with Jonah. He is so smiley and fun!
He even likes going to bed. I still find myself putting on his pjs, although I think he could do most of it himself. But you know how tight those fireproof pjs can be. He runs to his toddler bed, grabs his current favorite book and gets his binky from under his pillow. Right now his favorite book is My F Book. As you can guess, it is filled with things that start with F. I think Jonah loves it because there is a fire and firemen.
After we read that book, which we both have memorized, we read his nightly bible study and then he prays. He always prays that God will help him to eat, and so do I. He is too cute!
I know I know, he shouldn't still need a binky at 3 1/2, but he is so small. Is it true that kids won't go to kindergarten with their binkies and diapers still intact?
He even likes going to bed. I still find myself putting on his pjs, although I think he could do most of it himself. But you know how tight those fireproof pjs can be. He runs to his toddler bed, grabs his current favorite book and gets his binky from under his pillow. Right now his favorite book is My F Book. As you can guess, it is filled with things that start with F. I think Jonah loves it because there is a fire and firemen.
After we read that book, which we both have memorized, we read his nightly bible study and then he prays. He always prays that God will help him to eat, and so do I. He is too cute!
I know I know, he shouldn't still need a binky at 3 1/2, but he is so small. Is it true that kids won't go to kindergarten with their binkies and diapers still intact?
Sunday, June 10, 2007
busyness
Seth goes to OWL Camp today. He will be staying in a dorm at Ohio Wesleyan, taking classes all week on fun topics. I am excited for him! It will be a great experience........for him. Me on the other hand......
First of all, Randy has been working all weekend, so it has been my responsibility to make sure Seth has everything he needs. That has been mildly stressful. Also I have to get him (and his stuff) there and the attend the family meeting without Randy. I did talk my mom-in-law into going with us. Thanks Carol! Second, I didn't realize how much I depend on Seth, as far as chores and watching Jonah while I go to Curves. Now I have to survive a whole week without him! Plus, I'll just miss him and his goofy sense of humor!
Just to make this all a little more exciting, I pick Seth up next Friday night and we leave on the youth group mission trip to Florida on Saturday afternoon! AAARRRGGGGHHHH! Busyness indeed!
First of all, Randy has been working all weekend, so it has been my responsibility to make sure Seth has everything he needs. That has been mildly stressful. Also I have to get him (and his stuff) there and the attend the family meeting without Randy. I did talk my mom-in-law into going with us. Thanks Carol! Second, I didn't realize how much I depend on Seth, as far as chores and watching Jonah while I go to Curves. Now I have to survive a whole week without him! Plus, I'll just miss him and his goofy sense of humor!
Just to make this all a little more exciting, I pick Seth up next Friday night and we leave on the youth group mission trip to Florida on Saturday afternoon! AAARRRGGGGHHHH! Busyness indeed!
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Bring on summer!
OK, so I get out of school, finally, and the temperatures drop to the 60s! What is the about? I am longing for the pool and the bright warm sunshine. Aw well, Sarah and I did attempt a trip to the Columbus Zoo on Monday. We didn't even make it into the entrance before the heavy rain showers hit. So it was off to the Polaris Mall Playland for us and the kidlings. Of course that wasn't the best idea for my bank account, but it was fun. It was Sidney's actual 10th birthday. She and Mallory bought matching outfits (on clearance yeah!) at Childrens Place and a best friends necklace. All the kids got some rockin sunglasses, even Jonah. He picked out a pair and posed in front of the trifold mirror, doing the Saturday Night Live dance moves. That's my boy! Seth, being 12 and almost a 7th grader, chose to stay home instead of being part of our zoo. One of the first steps toward big boy independence....sigh! I tried to make staying home undesirable by leaving a long list of chores, but no dice. He stayed home and he did the chores, so it was a lose/win for me this day.
Friday, June 1, 2007
Last Day of School
One of the many reasons I became a teacher is very superficial. I love the school year calendar. I love the fresh start at the beginnning of a year and I love the last day excitement. Well today is the last day and everyone is excited. We are having a field day of sorts, with wiffle ball, volleyball, kickball and team building. Also there are gifts! Chris Fattig just came in and brought me a plant and a High School Musical poster. HS Musical is one of my favorite movies!
Anyway, even though I am exhausted and stressed about getting all my work done, this excitement from the kids will carry me through.
Anyway, even though I am exhausted and stressed about getting all my work done, this excitement from the kids will carry me through.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Walking Tacos
I have discovered a new favorite at the ballpark concession stand. As the title says, it is a walking tacos. Yummy! You take a Frito bag of chips, add spiced meat,cheese, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and salsa if you like. Then you eat it right out of the bag with a fork. Hence the name walking taco. Try it! It's fun!
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
My little peanut
Jonah is so small! At almost 3 1/2 years old, he weighs somewhere between 25 and 27 pounds. It varies by scale. I wanted to write about this because I believe that someday he will be gianormous and we may forget his humble beginnings.
Getting Jonah to eat is still a full time job, but since there has been some weight gain, the GI doc says we do not have to go back to the tube feeds (yet)! Hurray! I excitedly asked if that meant that we could remove the tube. She said not until August, if all is well. Poor lil bugger. That tube is a pain because it sticks right out there. We usually put onesies on him to keep it protected, but he is almost too tall for any onesies and it gets too hot under his t-shirts. The GI nurse suggested we put velcro on his t-shirts. Is it too much to ask that my kid be able to wear normal clothes like everyone else? Last Sunday in church Tony had to tie his pants on him with a lanyard.
Aw well, the end may be in sight if God says so. And we'll move on to bigger and different worries with a bigger (hopefully) Jonah.
Getting Jonah to eat is still a full time job, but since there has been some weight gain, the GI doc says we do not have to go back to the tube feeds (yet)! Hurray! I excitedly asked if that meant that we could remove the tube. She said not until August, if all is well. Poor lil bugger. That tube is a pain because it sticks right out there. We usually put onesies on him to keep it protected, but he is almost too tall for any onesies and it gets too hot under his t-shirts. The GI nurse suggested we put velcro on his t-shirts. Is it too much to ask that my kid be able to wear normal clothes like everyone else? Last Sunday in church Tony had to tie his pants on him with a lanyard.
Aw well, the end may be in sight if God says so. And we'll move on to bigger and different worries with a bigger (hopefully) Jonah.
Teacher appreciation at its best
I got roses from a student on Friday. It was one of the sweetest things that has ever happened to me on a typical school day. Thank you Tess! If I can figure out how to put pictures on here, I will post the one I had taken of Tess and me with my bouquet of flowers.
Tess and I have grown close throughout the year and she is very special to me. I am excited to watch as she goes on to 8th grade and then high school. She is a smart girl who is all about getting her head on straight and making good choices. In case you can't tell, I am very proud of her.
Thanks for the flowers Tess!
Tess and I have grown close throughout the year and she is very special to me. I am excited to watch as she goes on to 8th grade and then high school. She is a smart girl who is all about getting her head on straight and making good choices. In case you can't tell, I am very proud of her.
Thanks for the flowers Tess!
Surprise! A warm pool day in May!
Wow! I love Memorial weekend! It is probably mostly because I know school is almost out for summer. And I love BBQs and flip flops.
This Memorial Day was so warm that my kids were asking to go to the pool already. I was surprised because I know in past years, it is still pretty chilly at this time. We buy pool memberships at Brookside, so I agreed, figuring that if their lips turned blue we could go on home and we wouldn't be out any money. We went at 3 in the afternoon and there was a nice crowd there. The biggest surprise is that the water wasn't that cold. No blue lips and shivering bodies covered with goosebumps! It turned out to be almost hot!
If you want to try Brookside, let me know. On Tuesdays and Thursdays guests are 1/2 price with a member. While it is nowhere near as nice as Kenton pool, it is a lot closer for most. And with gas prices that means a lot.
See ya at the pool!
This Memorial Day was so warm that my kids were asking to go to the pool already. I was surprised because I know in past years, it is still pretty chilly at this time. We buy pool memberships at Brookside, so I agreed, figuring that if their lips turned blue we could go on home and we wouldn't be out any money. We went at 3 in the afternoon and there was a nice crowd there. The biggest surprise is that the water wasn't that cold. No blue lips and shivering bodies covered with goosebumps! It turned out to be almost hot!
If you want to try Brookside, let me know. On Tuesdays and Thursdays guests are 1/2 price with a member. While it is nowhere near as nice as Kenton pool, it is a lot closer for most. And with gas prices that means a lot.
See ya at the pool!
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
An America's Funniest Videos moment
At "my nastics" Tuesday night, Jonah was happily doing the circuit in his mini stars class. Seth and I were watching from the balcony. It was cute how proud Seth looked as he watched his baby brother on the equipment. At least he looked proud until IT happened. Jonah was jumping on the trampoline, when I saw his shorts begin to slide down. I looked away, knowing what was coming, but Seth didn't.You see even at 3 years old, Jonah fits easily into 18 month pants. It's tough to keep things up on him. Next thing I hear is lots of giggling and Seth saying "Oh no!" Jonah had jumped right out of his shorts and tossed them aside. Because we were in the balcony, I couldn't get to him right away, so I leaned over the railing and called to Tony, his instructor. Tony wasn't much help, as he began laughing along with just about everyone in the balcony. When Jonah saw Tony coming for him, laughing, he decided to make a run for it. So Tony chased Jonah around the circuit, still laughing. He finally caught him, scooped him up and put those shorts back on. Seth and I were trying to hide in the balcony, but Tony yelled up, "Did anybody get that on video? We could win some money!" Tee hee!
Wilbur comes to life
My kids have had the same great babysitter since Seth was 6 months old. Jana lives on a farm and is a saint in my eyes. She is very patient with the kids and helps them learn as they grow. It is evident that she really loves her kids and is proud of their accomplishments.
Right now, running loose on her farm, is a herd? troop? bevy? of piglets. They swarm enmasse and are so cute! Mallory wonders if one of them could be a runt like Wilur from Charlotte's Web. The first time I saw them come running, I went to get Jana. You see there have been other incidences over the years, when animals have gotten loose. I thought this was another of those times, but Jana said no. These are "free roaming"piglets. 33 free roaming piglets to be exact. And when I saw them they were swarming around Jonah. It was very cute and funny! Jonah wasn't laughing, but I sure was. After I rescued him, the piglets found a new playmate. They found a Big Wheel toy and began pushing it around. For awhile it looked like they might manage to get the toy into the barn. It was so cute that I wish I had had my video camera.
Why is it that baby anythings look so cute?
Right now, running loose on her farm, is a herd? troop? bevy? of piglets. They swarm enmasse and are so cute! Mallory wonders if one of them could be a runt like Wilur from Charlotte's Web. The first time I saw them come running, I went to get Jana. You see there have been other incidences over the years, when animals have gotten loose. I thought this was another of those times, but Jana said no. These are "free roaming"piglets. 33 free roaming piglets to be exact. And when I saw them they were swarming around Jonah. It was very cute and funny! Jonah wasn't laughing, but I sure was. After I rescued him, the piglets found a new playmate. They found a Big Wheel toy and began pushing it around. For awhile it looked like they might manage to get the toy into the barn. It was so cute that I wish I had had my video camera.
Why is it that baby anythings look so cute?
Monday, May 21, 2007
I Survived DC 07
Yes, I did it!I laughed, I cried, And it was a blast! I learned a lot and enjoyed the behind the scenes stories the tour guides gave. My favorite stop was Arlington National Cemetery. We participated in a wreath laying ceremony and saw the changing of the guard. I should capitalize that because it was very serious, full of honor and dignity. We also saw the new memorial called "Wall of Fallen Heros" which is small painted portraits of the soldiers being killed in Irag. That was a tear jerker. There were numerous post cards and mementos left at all the portraits, some form their moms and dads, and some from their children. Some of our students have relatives serving in Iraq right now. This was a hard memorial for them to see also.
I could go on and on about what we saw, but I want to remember the fun we also had. My bus had excellent chaperones. I enjoyed a great practical joke on Lisa Layton. I accused her of setting the fire alarm that we had at 4 a.m. at our hotel, with the candles she ahd brought to freshen her room. And yes, we had to evacuate the entire hotel! Mike Slob got in on the joke and at our dinner theater, had Lisa's waiter go and remove the candles from her table saying he had heard she is a fire hazard. She repaid him by having a waitress sit on his lap and sing happy birthday to him. LOL! It was his birthday btw.
Maybe I will write more about this trip later, but right now my 7th graders need some attention! Right Nick?
I could go on and on about what we saw, but I want to remember the fun we also had. My bus had excellent chaperones. I enjoyed a great practical joke on Lisa Layton. I accused her of setting the fire alarm that we had at 4 a.m. at our hotel, with the candles she ahd brought to freshen her room. And yes, we had to evacuate the entire hotel! Mike Slob got in on the joke and at our dinner theater, had Lisa's waiter go and remove the candles from her table saying he had heard she is a fire hazard. She repaid him by having a waitress sit on his lap and sing happy birthday to him. LOL! It was his birthday btw.
Maybe I will write more about this trip later, but right now my 7th graders need some attention! Right Nick?
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Washington DC
I am feeling sad, and stressed, and unprepared. Tonight I leave for DC as a chaperone for the 8th graders at RVMS. We leave at 11p and drive all night, arriving at breakfast at 5:30. We spend a day at Gettysburg. Seth would love that stop because he is my history buff, especially when it comes to war. Anyway, we don't get to rest until 10p, when we arrive at our hotel. We come home early on Saturday morning.
While I am glad to do it, to help out my school and the kids, I will miss my own kidlings. I wonder if it is true for kids and parents too, what they say about absence making the heart grow fonder. I, somehow, don't think so, because Jonah spends the days at Jana's and sometimes calls me Jana during the evening.
I am not packed. I'm not sure if all the laundry is done because we have to wear dress clothes. I haven't even bought the ever important snacks. And I have a softball game and gymnastics to take care of tonight!
I have asked Seth if I could borrow his Ipod and had him load some songs just for me! Thanks Seth J! I also have written my 3 days of lesson plans for Mr. Rich, my substitute.
I know that when the bus pulls out tonight at 11p, I will be ready (one way or another) and I will enjoy this trip. I will just be doing a lot of praying and rushing around in the meantime!
While I am glad to do it, to help out my school and the kids, I will miss my own kidlings. I wonder if it is true for kids and parents too, what they say about absence making the heart grow fonder. I, somehow, don't think so, because Jonah spends the days at Jana's and sometimes calls me Jana during the evening.
I am not packed. I'm not sure if all the laundry is done because we have to wear dress clothes. I haven't even bought the ever important snacks. And I have a softball game and gymnastics to take care of tonight!
I have asked Seth if I could borrow his Ipod and had him load some songs just for me! Thanks Seth J! I also have written my 3 days of lesson plans for Mr. Rich, my substitute.
I know that when the bus pulls out tonight at 11p, I will be ready (one way or another) and I will enjoy this trip. I will just be doing a lot of praying and rushing around in the meantime!
Just being strange!
I got this off a website ~ and though it may seem like it, I don't have too much time on my hands!
Ten Top Trivia Tips about Michelle!
Four-fifths of the surface of michelle is covered in water.
According to the story, Pinocchio was made of michelle.
The air around michelle is superheated to about five times the temperature of the sun.
More than one million stray dogs and half a million stray cats live in michelle.
Duelling is legal in Paraguay as long as both parties are michelle!
US gold coins used to say 'In michelle we trust'.
Michelle is the smallest of Jupiter's many moons!
There is actually no danger in swimming right after you eat michelle, though it may feel uncomfortable!
Michelle can run sixty-five kilometres an hour - that's really fast!
It is impossible to fold michelle more than seven times!
Ten Top Trivia Tips about Michelle!
Four-fifths of the surface of michelle is covered in water.
According to the story, Pinocchio was made of michelle.
The air around michelle is superheated to about five times the temperature of the sun.
More than one million stray dogs and half a million stray cats live in michelle.
Duelling is legal in Paraguay as long as both parties are michelle!
US gold coins used to say 'In michelle we trust'.
Michelle is the smallest of Jupiter's many moons!
There is actually no danger in swimming right after you eat michelle, though it may feel uncomfortable!
Michelle can run sixty-five kilometres an hour - that's really fast!
It is impossible to fold michelle more than seven times!
Monday, May 14, 2007
Mother's Day rocks!
Mother's Day at my house rocks! My kids and husband go overboard and I love it! I can count on breakfast in bed. Randy makes my favorite, eggs in a basket with a cup of tea or hot chocolate (or cho-lock-et, as Jonah says). Then come the mamas day gifts! I love gifts!
This year was very touching. Mallory made a "scrapbook" for me. She included some of her favorite pics and added cute and touching captions in her own 2nd grade handwriting. I will treasure this book forever!
Seth learned to crosstitch in his Work and Family Life (home ec) class. That alone is amazing to me. Crosstitching takes a lot of patience and concentration. Not only did he learn to do it, but he does it well. He made me a refrigerator magnet that says I heart mom! He's got skills!
Jonah made me a cute card at church. He got into the awing of the day with lots of hugs and kisses. Who can resist?
Randy had already gotten a Cricut machine for me, and gave it to me early, so I could use it at my scrapbooking workshop Friday night. It is a cool machine that cuts out words and other things for my scrapbook pages. Since I had already gotten a major gift, I was surprised when he also gave me an Adidas sweatsuit. I love it! He got it from work with his discount and he has always loved Adidas, since his soccer coaching days. But I was most touched because bought a blue sweatsuit. He has always said blue clothes make my eyes stand out and he loves my eyes. Thanks sweetie! You guys made mother's day rock!
This year was very touching. Mallory made a "scrapbook" for me. She included some of her favorite pics and added cute and touching captions in her own 2nd grade handwriting. I will treasure this book forever!
Seth learned to crosstitch in his Work and Family Life (home ec) class. That alone is amazing to me. Crosstitching takes a lot of patience and concentration. Not only did he learn to do it, but he does it well. He made me a refrigerator magnet that says I heart mom! He's got skills!
Jonah made me a cute card at church. He got into the awing of the day with lots of hugs and kisses. Who can resist?
Randy had already gotten a Cricut machine for me, and gave it to me early, so I could use it at my scrapbooking workshop Friday night. It is a cool machine that cuts out words and other things for my scrapbook pages. Since I had already gotten a major gift, I was surprised when he also gave me an Adidas sweatsuit. I love it! He got it from work with his discount and he has always loved Adidas, since his soccer coaching days. But I was most touched because bought a blue sweatsuit. He has always said blue clothes make my eyes stand out and he loves my eyes. Thanks sweetie! You guys made mother's day rock!
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Staff Talent?
Each year, we have an end of the year talent show,at RVMS. Included in that show is usually a staff routine, that is open to all staff members. Last year, with my love for High School Musical, I had the brainstorm to do a routine to "Getcha Head in the Game." We were pretty bad and the students loved it!
This year, due to my fantastic success in the past, staff members started looking to me to come up with the new idea. "No pressure, but we need it soon!" While working out at Curves last week, it hit me. We are doing a tribute to our retiring 8th grade teacher, Mary Beals, and our retiring principal, Ed Crawford. We will be doing 2 numbers (hah! try getting your staff to learn 2 routines) this year in honor of them. One will be for Ed, an avid Cleveland Indians fan. We will be moving our bodies to the put me in coach song, called "Centerfield." This will end with all of us holding Ed Heads masks over our faces! These ideas courtesy of our secretary, Jackie Mooney and masks from Tad Douce~ thanks guys!
After that ends ( and it can't end well) we will go into "That'll be the Day" by Buddy Holly. Both Mary and Ed will be seated on stools center stage for this number. Kim and Melissa created stunning choreography that will surely be a hit. Thanks girls!
At least I know that, even as we fumble around on stage in front of the entire student body, they will love it because it is US, their teachers, making fools of ourselves. I am sure it will be a blast! I will let you know how it goes!
This year, due to my fantastic success in the past, staff members started looking to me to come up with the new idea. "No pressure, but we need it soon!" While working out at Curves last week, it hit me. We are doing a tribute to our retiring 8th grade teacher, Mary Beals, and our retiring principal, Ed Crawford. We will be doing 2 numbers (hah! try getting your staff to learn 2 routines) this year in honor of them. One will be for Ed, an avid Cleveland Indians fan. We will be moving our bodies to the put me in coach song, called "Centerfield." This will end with all of us holding Ed Heads masks over our faces! These ideas courtesy of our secretary, Jackie Mooney and masks from Tad Douce~ thanks guys!
After that ends ( and it can't end well) we will go into "That'll be the Day" by Buddy Holly. Both Mary and Ed will be seated on stools center stage for this number. Kim and Melissa created stunning choreography that will surely be a hit. Thanks girls!
At least I know that, even as we fumble around on stage in front of the entire student body, they will love it because it is US, their teachers, making fools of ourselves. I am sure it will be a blast! I will let you know how it goes!
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Coach pitch
I am discovering something new about me....something that is surprising me quite a bit, considering I am not athletic. That is that I am definitely a yeller at my kids' games. I am so sorry kids. I have been told it can be rather embarrassing, but it seems beyond my control. I jump, pump my fists, and shreek until my throat hurts. And I have discovered that when I am not in the process of doing those lovely motions, I am rockin back and forth and muttering under my breath. Again, kids, I apologize. It seems that the only way I can keep from making these maniacal gestures is to engross myself in conversation with another parent, thereby missing my kids' plays altoghether.
Right now we are in the midst of baseball/softball season. Mallory had her first game last night. The beast in me arose again, to my great surprise. You see last week, at her scrimmage, I got to talking to Mary Longo, and Mallory was angry that I missed her great turn at bat. Because I had not gotten caught up on that game, I had forgotten that the beast exists.
That, along with my late arrival at the game last night, is why I was surprised IT happened again. Jonah and I arrived late because he had gymnastics, or my nastics, as he says it. Randy, Mallory's dad and coach, had already warned me that they were going to get creamed because Ridgedale is usually good and we have a young team. So, upon arriving, I walked up and casually inquired about the score, feeling nothing, other than appreciation for the warm spring sunshine. When I was told that we were at the top of the 3rd and only down by one, it began. Kinda like the incredible hulk's transformation, I felt the beast rising. My rocking and murmuring began. I chanted the name of each girl as she came up to bat, with a loud burst of Go RV mingled in. Then I found myself leaping from my seat, fists pumping, when a girl would have a decent hit. The sound I was making with my throat can only be called shreeking. At one point, sanity hit me and I somewhere inside my head, a voice asked, "what must I look like to all these calm mothers sitting around me?" But it didn't slow me down at all.
Let me get to the good news. After expecting great defeat, we had a come from behind cinderella story like win. It was the top of the last inning and the girls were getting lined up for the final turns at bat. I was at the bench, reminding them that they needed, MUST HAVE, 2 runs, to win (just in case they forgot)! And remember, I am the coach's wife. That should bring with it special privileges right? As I was pumping up the girls, Lauren, one of the players, turned to me and said, : I will be the one to make them lose." I liked her spunk and told her to go for it! Well she did! She scored the winning run!! As she made it to first base, where her mom was waiting as first base coach, she told her, " I am gonna score this run for Mallory's mom!" Needless to say, it was exciting! She scored, we won, and now we are undefeated! So what if we have only played one game!
Ok, so am I insane or are there others like me out there? Oh and one more time for good measure~I am sorry kids!
Right now we are in the midst of baseball/softball season. Mallory had her first game last night. The beast in me arose again, to my great surprise. You see last week, at her scrimmage, I got to talking to Mary Longo, and Mallory was angry that I missed her great turn at bat. Because I had not gotten caught up on that game, I had forgotten that the beast exists.
That, along with my late arrival at the game last night, is why I was surprised IT happened again. Jonah and I arrived late because he had gymnastics, or my nastics, as he says it. Randy, Mallory's dad and coach, had already warned me that they were going to get creamed because Ridgedale is usually good and we have a young team. So, upon arriving, I walked up and casually inquired about the score, feeling nothing, other than appreciation for the warm spring sunshine. When I was told that we were at the top of the 3rd and only down by one, it began. Kinda like the incredible hulk's transformation, I felt the beast rising. My rocking and murmuring began. I chanted the name of each girl as she came up to bat, with a loud burst of Go RV mingled in. Then I found myself leaping from my seat, fists pumping, when a girl would have a decent hit. The sound I was making with my throat can only be called shreeking. At one point, sanity hit me and I somewhere inside my head, a voice asked, "what must I look like to all these calm mothers sitting around me?" But it didn't slow me down at all.
Let me get to the good news. After expecting great defeat, we had a come from behind cinderella story like win. It was the top of the last inning and the girls were getting lined up for the final turns at bat. I was at the bench, reminding them that they needed, MUST HAVE, 2 runs, to win (just in case they forgot)! And remember, I am the coach's wife. That should bring with it special privileges right? As I was pumping up the girls, Lauren, one of the players, turned to me and said, : I will be the one to make them lose." I liked her spunk and told her to go for it! Well she did! She scored the winning run!! As she made it to first base, where her mom was waiting as first base coach, she told her, " I am gonna score this run for Mallory's mom!" Needless to say, it was exciting! She scored, we won, and now we are undefeated! So what if we have only played one game!
Ok, so am I insane or are there others like me out there? Oh and one more time for good measure~I am sorry kids!
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Charlottes Web is still going strong
Mallory and I have read every night, but one, since I posted about this. I am so proud of us! We are currently at the part where Wilbur, with the help of the barnyard animals, has just figured out he is being raised to be eaten. He and Charlotte have already met and are becoming friends. We ended on this cliffhanger statement from Charlotte, "I will not let you be killed."
Wow! This coming from a friend who barely knows Wilbur. And trust me, in my opinion, Wilbur has not been very loveable up to this point. He has been whiny and annoying. Yet, along comes a spider (tee hee) who immediately loves him and pledges to save his life.
This reminds me of Jesus. He is love and loves each of us immediately and unconditionally. No matter what we act like or what we are like on the inside, He still loves us and says, "I gave my life for you." While he can not guarantee that we will not be killed, He offers us a chance to live, if we will take it.
I am so grateful to have a friend, like Charlotte, who loves me even when I am whiny and annoying. His name is Jesus.
Wow! This coming from a friend who barely knows Wilbur. And trust me, in my opinion, Wilbur has not been very loveable up to this point. He has been whiny and annoying. Yet, along comes a spider (tee hee) who immediately loves him and pledges to save his life.
This reminds me of Jesus. He is love and loves each of us immediately and unconditionally. No matter what we act like or what we are like on the inside, He still loves us and says, "I gave my life for you." While he can not guarantee that we will not be killed, He offers us a chance to live, if we will take it.
I am so grateful to have a friend, like Charlotte, who loves me even when I am whiny and annoying. His name is Jesus.
Monday, May 7, 2007
I love you this much.........
Ok, kids, this post is for you. Each one of my three kids has had their own unique way of telling me just how much they love me. And each one is so cute and sweet.
Seth~I love you to the moon and back (now when I remind him of this, he blushes and looks down).
Mallory~I love you as much as God loves the whole world (if only anyone could love that much and that perfectly~ but she sure tries).
Jonah~ I love you BIG much! (big words from a peanut).
Mommy loves you too!
Seth~I love you to the moon and back (now when I remind him of this, he blushes and looks down).
Mallory~I love you as much as God loves the whole world (if only anyone could love that much and that perfectly~ but she sure tries).
Jonah~ I love you BIG much! (big words from a peanut).
Mommy loves you too!
Friday, May 4, 2007
25 pounder!
Jonah has an eating disorder. It was probably caused because, due to failure to thrive, he was put on a feeding tube over 1 year ago and, for awhile, wasn't allowed to eat by mouth. We spent a week, in February, in Childrens Hospital, in a feeding clinic with a psychologist, trying to train Jonah to eat. Since then, there have been ups and downs and some funny moments too. The funny moments are what I want to record for Jonah.
Checking the zeros~ this is what Jonah says when we ask him to get on the digital scale so we can, weekly, check his weight. It's because the 0 flashes repeatedly before the weight appears.
good chewing, great bite!~ this is what Randy and I say, ad nauseaum, to Jonah, as per the psychologist, while he is eating. Eating is like a job to Jonah, not fun at all! This I can't imagine! The doctor could make a mint by selling recordings of these feeding phrases to desperate parents like us.
25 pounder~ SO cute! This is what Jonah shouts any time he gets weighed. It doesn't matter to him what the real number is. All he knows is that, one time, he DID weigh 25 lbs. and we all cheered. So now it is always....25 pounder, hurray for Jonah! (unfortunately, he has been 25 pounds for 2 months or so). But God can do miracles and I believe He has big plans for my Jonah!
Checking the zeros~ this is what Jonah says when we ask him to get on the digital scale so we can, weekly, check his weight. It's because the 0 flashes repeatedly before the weight appears.
good chewing, great bite!~ this is what Randy and I say, ad nauseaum, to Jonah, as per the psychologist, while he is eating. Eating is like a job to Jonah, not fun at all! This I can't imagine! The doctor could make a mint by selling recordings of these feeding phrases to desperate parents like us.
25 pounder~ SO cute! This is what Jonah shouts any time he gets weighed. It doesn't matter to him what the real number is. All he knows is that, one time, he DID weigh 25 lbs. and we all cheered. So now it is always....25 pounder, hurray for Jonah! (unfortunately, he has been 25 pounds for 2 months or so). But God can do miracles and I believe He has big plans for my Jonah!
New shoes
Here I am, 38 years old, and I still feel like a kid when I am wearing new shoes. Does that happen to anyone else? I bought new tennis shoes this week. I had had the old pair for something like 4 years, and either my feet have grown (wow!) or the shoes had shrunk, because my toes would hurt if I wore them very long.
Randy has a new job as an associate manager for MC Sports, so I thought I would surprise him with a visit there. Turns out, I left with a surprise~a new pair of tennis shoes. They had a great deal on Adidas, which is my brand of choice, and they were whispering my name all throughout the tour he was giving me.
So here I sit, typing and admiring my new tennis shoes. They look so fresh, clean and full of promise. But we all know what happens to new white tennis shoes. Aww well! At least for today, they are perfect!
Randy has a new job as an associate manager for MC Sports, so I thought I would surprise him with a visit there. Turns out, I left with a surprise~a new pair of tennis shoes. They had a great deal on Adidas, which is my brand of choice, and they were whispering my name all throughout the tour he was giving me.
So here I sit, typing and admiring my new tennis shoes. They look so fresh, clean and full of promise. But we all know what happens to new white tennis shoes. Aww well! At least for today, they are perfect!
School Days count down
There are 20 days left of this school year! Needless to say, I am ready, and so are my 7th graders!
Things I look forward to the most:
1. sleeping in, even just a little. I leave my house now at 7 a.m.
2. getting up and sitting on the couch, cuddling with Mallory and Jonah. Seth is not into cuddling these days. In fact the only way I get a hug is if I have my bra on first!
3. Staying late at care group without worry about being tired the next day....but not too late Kelli!
4. the pool!
5. Going to the Jerzee at dusk
6. food off the grill....speaking of food, I can't wait for watermelon and corn on the cob!
draft
7. vacation
8. Seth and Mallory's baseball games
There are 20 days left of this school year! Needless to say, I am ready, and so are my 7th graders!
Things I look forward to the most:
1. sleeping in, even just a little. I leave my house now at 7 a.m.
2. getting up and sitting on the couch, cuddling with Mallory and Jonah. Seth is not into cuddling these days. In fact the only way I get a hug is if I have my bra on first!
3. Staying late at care group without worry about being tired the next day....but not too late Kelli!
4. the pool!
5. Going to the Jerzee at dusk
6. food off the grill....speaking of food, I can't wait for watermelon and corn on the cob!
draft
7. vacation
8. Seth and Mallory's baseball games
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Karen Kingsbury was in MARION, OHIO!!
If you've never read a KK book, you are missing out. They can be emotional sometimes making them tough to get through, and sometimes I find them a little sappy, but for the most part, they are well worth the time! Karen and her family were at RVHS last night. That fact alone amazes me. I guess I can't believe any "famous"person would come to a place like Marion. I think it happened because Tom Hypes won a Christian bookstore contest. But for whatever reason, she was here and she was a great speaker.
I went with my super special group of friends, all of whom cried at some point throughout her talk (OK, Kelli cried through it all, but she is pregnant and has an excuse). I never teared up so I guess that means I am dead inside, huh? :) No tears does not mean I did not enjoy what she had to say. her lessons on love were strong enough for me to remember and tell Randy later that night.
The lessons were: Love is not pushy. Love is not about performance. and there was another I can't remember. It all boils down to love being unconditional. Same old same old, but she put it in a bright new light. So now for a day or two I will be more patient with my loved ones. I will hug Seth even if he doesn't get an A on this week's spelling test. I only wish it would last effortlessly. Ahhh....the blight of being human. Only God is perfect and loves so well. i can only ask for His help and try each day.
Ok, so now I will spread Karen's, and more importantly, God's, message. Whenever you (or I) read this post, reach out to someone you love and make sure they know it!
Love ya!!!!!
I went with my super special group of friends, all of whom cried at some point throughout her talk (OK, Kelli cried through it all, but she is pregnant and has an excuse). I never teared up so I guess that means I am dead inside, huh? :) No tears does not mean I did not enjoy what she had to say. her lessons on love were strong enough for me to remember and tell Randy later that night.
The lessons were: Love is not pushy. Love is not about performance. and there was another I can't remember. It all boils down to love being unconditional. Same old same old, but she put it in a bright new light. So now for a day or two I will be more patient with my loved ones. I will hug Seth even if he doesn't get an A on this week's spelling test. I only wish it would last effortlessly. Ahhh....the blight of being human. Only God is perfect and loves so well. i can only ask for His help and try each day.
Ok, so now I will spread Karen's, and more importantly, God's, message. Whenever you (or I) read this post, reach out to someone you love and make sure they know it!
Love ya!!!!!
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Walt Disney does things right!
I need to put into words some of our great vacation experience this past spring break. We went on a Disney land/sea trip with the kids and my in-laws. We stayed at Port Orleans French Quarter, a Disney resort. It was very nice and the people there did anything they could to be helpful. We were there for 5 Disney filled days. Many of those days we all traveled together and on a couple we split up, depending on Jonah's lack of nap and Carol's need for a break.
My favorite park was MGM Studios. I love the whole atmosphere of the place. There are commedians on all the streets doing little shows. Mallory danced with one. We had a great lunch buffet at this park. It was a character lunch, which we did for Jonah. He LOVED having lunch with JoJo and Goliath from Jojo's Circus and June and Leo from his all time favorite~The Little Einsteins! At this place, the characters came around and visited every table. That means Jonah got lots of personal attention. He was a little shy when directly approached, but would run up and hug them as they were walking away. AWWWW! It was all so stinkin cute!
Also at this park was my all time favorite~ HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL PEP RALLY~ I think I looked forward to this more then my 8 year old. Sick I know, but there it is! I love the movie, the message from it, and Troy (I think he is very romantic).
Jonah's favorite ride from all the Disney parks....Drumroll please........the MOMORAIL train. And no, that was not a misspelling. He pronounced it that way and got excited anytime one went by.
There was the night at Magic Kingdom, which truly is magical btw, that Seth decided he would take Jonah on Dumbo. They stood in line for 45 minutes and when they got up there to ride, Jonah refused to get on.
Seth's favorite park was Typhoon Lagoon, one of Disney's water parks. It was so much fun! Every 90 seconds, at the wave pool, a gianormous wave was released that was garanteed (spelling demon strikes again) to knock you off your feet. Seth loved it! He also went snorkeling at this park. He and his dad got in line. I chickened out from the get go. I was on a bridge ready to videotape this big adventure, when I saw Randy encourage Seth to take off. I say saw, because they both had on snorkeling masks and could not talk to each other. At Randy's insistence, Seth stepped off the ledge and began to float, thinking his dad was right behind him. Little did he know that Randy had a mini panic attack and walked out the entrance, leaving Seth to snorkel alone. That makes me chuckle even now.
On the morning of the 6th day, we left for our Disney cruise on the Disney Wonder. I had never been on a cruise before and now I can't wait to go again! I loved it!!!!! On the charter bus ride to the ship, Mallory made friends with another 8 year old, named Abby, from New York New york. I want to be a part of it.....oh, sorry. These 2 girls became fast friends and spent time onboard and at Castaway Cay together. They both ended up getting their hair braided like the natives do. The pictures are so cute. if I knew how to put pics on here I would show you.
There were always activities for the kids to do. Seth spent most of his time at the basketball court at the front of the ship. I know there is a word for that, but it escapes me right now. The tvs in our rooms had a channel that showed the court so we could watch him at will. He stayed there pretty late one night, after midnight, then came back and ordered room service. He loved that all the food was FREE!
We saw two movies while at sea, Wild Hogs and Meet the Robinsons. Wild Hogs had Randy laughing out loud, which is quite a feat. It was 11p.m. when we went to see Meet the Robinsons, so I don't remember many details. Mal and I also a broadway style show called Disney Dreams that was fantastic!
The we spent on Castaway Cay was fun too! I talked to a lifeguard who informed that all the employees live there year round. He said, "Somebody has to stay and clean up after you people!" Can you imagine? What a life, working for Disney living on a private Bahamian Island. God has been good to that guy. I only hope he knows it!
Awwww I close my eyes and pretend I am still on the cruise right now! I can not wait to go again!
Thanks for sticking with me!
My favorite park was MGM Studios. I love the whole atmosphere of the place. There are commedians on all the streets doing little shows. Mallory danced with one. We had a great lunch buffet at this park. It was a character lunch, which we did for Jonah. He LOVED having lunch with JoJo and Goliath from Jojo's Circus and June and Leo from his all time favorite~The Little Einsteins! At this place, the characters came around and visited every table. That means Jonah got lots of personal attention. He was a little shy when directly approached, but would run up and hug them as they were walking away. AWWWW! It was all so stinkin cute!
Also at this park was my all time favorite~ HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL PEP RALLY~ I think I looked forward to this more then my 8 year old. Sick I know, but there it is! I love the movie, the message from it, and Troy (I think he is very romantic).
Jonah's favorite ride from all the Disney parks....Drumroll please........the MOMORAIL train. And no, that was not a misspelling. He pronounced it that way and got excited anytime one went by.
There was the night at Magic Kingdom, which truly is magical btw, that Seth decided he would take Jonah on Dumbo. They stood in line for 45 minutes and when they got up there to ride, Jonah refused to get on.
Seth's favorite park was Typhoon Lagoon, one of Disney's water parks. It was so much fun! Every 90 seconds, at the wave pool, a gianormous wave was released that was garanteed (spelling demon strikes again) to knock you off your feet. Seth loved it! He also went snorkeling at this park. He and his dad got in line. I chickened out from the get go. I was on a bridge ready to videotape this big adventure, when I saw Randy encourage Seth to take off. I say saw, because they both had on snorkeling masks and could not talk to each other. At Randy's insistence, Seth stepped off the ledge and began to float, thinking his dad was right behind him. Little did he know that Randy had a mini panic attack and walked out the entrance, leaving Seth to snorkel alone. That makes me chuckle even now.
On the morning of the 6th day, we left for our Disney cruise on the Disney Wonder. I had never been on a cruise before and now I can't wait to go again! I loved it!!!!! On the charter bus ride to the ship, Mallory made friends with another 8 year old, named Abby, from New York New york. I want to be a part of it.....oh, sorry. These 2 girls became fast friends and spent time onboard and at Castaway Cay together. They both ended up getting their hair braided like the natives do. The pictures are so cute. if I knew how to put pics on here I would show you.
There were always activities for the kids to do. Seth spent most of his time at the basketball court at the front of the ship. I know there is a word for that, but it escapes me right now. The tvs in our rooms had a channel that showed the court so we could watch him at will. He stayed there pretty late one night, after midnight, then came back and ordered room service. He loved that all the food was FREE!
We saw two movies while at sea, Wild Hogs and Meet the Robinsons. Wild Hogs had Randy laughing out loud, which is quite a feat. It was 11p.m. when we went to see Meet the Robinsons, so I don't remember many details. Mal and I also a broadway style show called Disney Dreams that was fantastic!
The we spent on Castaway Cay was fun too! I talked to a lifeguard who informed that all the employees live there year round. He said, "Somebody has to stay and clean up after you people!" Can you imagine? What a life, working for Disney living on a private Bahamian Island. God has been good to that guy. I only hope he knows it!
Awwww I close my eyes and pretend I am still on the cruise right now! I can not wait to go again!
Thanks for sticking with me!
Last child syndrome
Why is it so hard for me to let Jonah, my 3rd and last (God wiliing) child grow up? He does 3 year old things for the most part, but gets away with some stuff that Seth and Mallory had to give up by this age.
Here are some examples:
1. He still sleeps with a binky. I know I know..........but he is a baby.
2. He is still in diapers. Size 4 to be exact. I hope to work on this intensely this summer.
3. Often I find myself feeding him. This is partly due to his eating issues and my impatience with him at mealtimes. But I know he needs to do this for himself. Just last night, as I was spooning in some more "puddy" with duocal for extra calories, and scrapping the excess off his sweet little face, I flashed back to baby food days!
4. He wants to be carried a lot still. I love this one! Of course he only weighs 25 lbs. It is a great feeling when he wraps his little arms around my neck.
5. He sometimes still makes noises to get what he wants instead of using his words. I hate this one! "Use your words" has become the phrase of choice at our house.
So that seems to be the list of immature (lol) behavior for my last baby. I'll keep you updated as they begin to fall away.
Here are some examples:
1. He still sleeps with a binky. I know I know..........but he is a baby.
2. He is still in diapers. Size 4 to be exact. I hope to work on this intensely this summer.
3. Often I find myself feeding him. This is partly due to his eating issues and my impatience with him at mealtimes. But I know he needs to do this for himself. Just last night, as I was spooning in some more "puddy" with duocal for extra calories, and scrapping the excess off his sweet little face, I flashed back to baby food days!
4. He wants to be carried a lot still. I love this one! Of course he only weighs 25 lbs. It is a great feeling when he wraps his little arms around my neck.
5. He sometimes still makes noises to get what he wants instead of using his words. I hate this one! "Use your words" has become the phrase of choice at our house.
So that seems to be the list of immature (lol) behavior for my last baby. I'll keep you updated as they begin to fall away.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
A May day at school
This is testing week. I hate the tests. They are passed down by the state as instruments of torture, so the students say. Nevertheless, we test! But this afternoon, testing is over. And it is 80 degrees outside, with sunshine. So in my class, we take a break. We go outside and the students sit and listen to me read. We are reading a book by James Patterson, called Maximum Ride. They are enjoying it and so am I! When I finish, I tell them they have 15 minutes free......outside. Mind you, these are 7th graders, 12-14 years old. I don't know what I expected, but love what I saw happening before my unbelieving eyes. Games of tag and Marco Polo broke out all around me. As the boys ran, they had to constantly pull up their saggy pants with one hand. I laughed out loud at that. The beautiful freedom came to a close with a student coming toward me with a dandelion saying "Matt had a baby and its head popped off!" If you didn't do that as a child you were missing out!
And so it begins
I have always thought of keeping a journal for my kids. That thought is based on the assumption that they will want to know most everything that was in my head while they lived with me. After being inspired by someone I met recently, here goes. My random thoughts~ day 1.........
Today I had a brainstorm. Mallory is 8 and the middle child and suffers from frequent fit throwing. My brainstorm....are u ready for this? She is craving one on one attention. I know, I knw, most of you are saying well duh! But for some reason, it hit me strongly today. Well last night really, when she asked for a book before bed and I did the same routine. I sighed loudly, snapped at her to hurry with her pjs, and mentioned how tired I was. Terrible. And God put a mirror in front of me last night and I SAW it happening, like an out of body experience. Then the brainstorm hit, fast and furious. We are going to start reading Charlottes Web together! She was so excited. See her school is going to see the movie on may 15th for Right to Read Week (hmmm a movie for right to read week???) and she would love to read it before then. She even reminded me this morning to get the book today. SO now we are both excited. We have a purpose and a timeline. We will get some good time together! Mallory, I'll keep you posted!
Today I had a brainstorm. Mallory is 8 and the middle child and suffers from frequent fit throwing. My brainstorm....are u ready for this? She is craving one on one attention. I know, I knw, most of you are saying well duh! But for some reason, it hit me strongly today. Well last night really, when she asked for a book before bed and I did the same routine. I sighed loudly, snapped at her to hurry with her pjs, and mentioned how tired I was. Terrible. And God put a mirror in front of me last night and I SAW it happening, like an out of body experience. Then the brainstorm hit, fast and furious. We are going to start reading Charlottes Web together! She was so excited. See her school is going to see the movie on may 15th for Right to Read Week (hmmm a movie for right to read week???) and she would love to read it before then. She even reminded me this morning to get the book today. SO now we are both excited. We have a purpose and a timeline. We will get some good time together! Mallory, I'll keep you posted!
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