Charlie celebrated his 1st birthday on Wednesday. He brought chocolate chip cookies to school to share with his friends, who sang him happy birthday. He got to pick out the activity for the day, and he didn't have to pick up toys (he's not real great at this anyway). At home, we had his favorites for dinner (hot dogs, tater tots, and carrots). Jeff even made it home a little after 7 to spend some time with him on his birthday, which was nice. I can't believe it has been a year already! He is really taking off with walking. It is so strange to see him toddling across the floor. You can tell he is really proud of himself about it!
Charlie went in to the doctor yet again yesterday for another sinus infection. We talked for a bit with an ENT who suggested he have his adenoids out at 2 years, but until then there isn't much to do besides antibiotics and riding out the infections.
In Sam news, he has slept through the night for the past THREE nights! (He sleeps from 9 at night to about 5:00 in the morning). I have no idea why he is doing this...I wish I could pinpoint something I am doing to make sure he keeps it up! It has been a lot easier going to work with more sleep this week.
Showing posts with label Charlie. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Charlie. Show all posts
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Monday, September 03, 2012
Oh my lord, what a week!
Here is what I know...I firmly believe that Labor Day should ALWAYS be there waiting for me at the end of the first week of school. This day off is precisely what my family and I needed to continue recovering from the whirlwind of last week.
On Monday, Evan began 8th grade:
Sammy had his first day of Kindergarten:
And Charlie became a 1st grader!
I am having all of the usual Mommy feelings...I can't believe how grown up they are, I can't believe my baby is in Kindergarten, etc. My own eighth grade experience doesn't seem all that far away, so how can I possibly have a child in 8th grade? By the way, I personally felt that 8th grade was the equivalent of torture on so many levels, so I can only hope that Evan's year goes much better than mine did.
This year, Charlie's classroom is to the right of mine, and Sammy's is to my left, so they are very close. I love that. I get to see them in the hallways, at the bathroom, in the lunchroom. It makes the separation easier for me. I miss them so gosh dang much when we are at school. And if there's a problem, their teachers know right where to find me!
Charlie was eagerly awaiting the start of school all summer. He loves learning, reading, working, and homework. He was so excited for school this week, he had a hard time falling asleep each night.
Evan has had a good week so far, but the homework hasn't really kicked in either. I am waiting with baited breath in the hopes this is a better year for him. We had so many troubles in 7th grade that I am often surprised both of us made it through. I wish there was a wand I could wave that would make school easier.
Sammy isn't sure yet. He went off to his classroom happily enough each day, but he has reported he doesn't like it that much. Sammy is my worrier. He stresses all of the small stuff, and I think that makes change hard. I am hopeful that as school becomes more of the norm for him, that it gets much easier.
I started my 13th year of teaching on Monday. I am finding that I have to work hard to change something in the way I teach or in my classroom each year to make it fresh. I love teaching 1st grade, but I think I have been doing it so long it can almost become drudgery. I have been working this week to stay positive. The first weeks of school always feel to me like I have a houseful of house guests. We are all busy getting to know each other, rules, and routines, and it just isn't comfortable yet, which is tiring in and of itself. Here's hoping this week will be easier!
Jeff and I continue to explore me staying home next year. We had the first of many budget meetings last night. So far, I am loving how this seems to be a great exercise in letting go and trusting God. We are becoming better at communicating with each other as well. So, even if this doesn't work out for us, just going through this experiment will bring us many benefits. I love feeling like Jeff and I are a tight team, with God as our head. Have I mentioned lately how much I love my husband? I admire him so much, and I love how hard he works for us. Really. I am so lucky to have him.
How is your school year going? Are your kids back to school yet?
On Monday, Evan began 8th grade:
This year, Charlie's classroom is to the right of mine, and Sammy's is to my left, so they are very close. I love that. I get to see them in the hallways, at the bathroom, in the lunchroom. It makes the separation easier for me. I miss them so gosh dang much when we are at school. And if there's a problem, their teachers know right where to find me!
Charlie was eagerly awaiting the start of school all summer. He loves learning, reading, working, and homework. He was so excited for school this week, he had a hard time falling asleep each night.
Evan has had a good week so far, but the homework hasn't really kicked in either. I am waiting with baited breath in the hopes this is a better year for him. We had so many troubles in 7th grade that I am often surprised both of us made it through. I wish there was a wand I could wave that would make school easier.
Sammy isn't sure yet. He went off to his classroom happily enough each day, but he has reported he doesn't like it that much. Sammy is my worrier. He stresses all of the small stuff, and I think that makes change hard. I am hopeful that as school becomes more of the norm for him, that it gets much easier.
I started my 13th year of teaching on Monday. I am finding that I have to work hard to change something in the way I teach or in my classroom each year to make it fresh. I love teaching 1st grade, but I think I have been doing it so long it can almost become drudgery. I have been working this week to stay positive. The first weeks of school always feel to me like I have a houseful of house guests. We are all busy getting to know each other, rules, and routines, and it just isn't comfortable yet, which is tiring in and of itself. Here's hoping this week will be easier!
Jeff and I continue to explore me staying home next year. We had the first of many budget meetings last night. So far, I am loving how this seems to be a great exercise in letting go and trusting God. We are becoming better at communicating with each other as well. So, even if this doesn't work out for us, just going through this experiment will bring us many benefits. I love feeling like Jeff and I are a tight team, with God as our head. Have I mentioned lately how much I love my husband? I admire him so much, and I love how hard he works for us. Really. I am so lucky to have him.
How is your school year going? Are your kids back to school yet?
Thursday, August 09, 2012
Summer Fun
Really, I don't know if the boys will remember this as the most fun filled summer ever.
That's too bad, as it was also the longest summer break we will probably ever have. Our school is under construction for the second summer in a row, and as a result, we had an extra three weeks to enjoy ourselves.
We didn't get to take a vacation, as we had to do a majorly expensive roof repair, which meant we missed out on the most looked forward to week of the year.
Instead, we tackled some additional home improvement projects that were long overdue.
We separated Sammy and Charlie, and gave each of them their own rooms. This meant moving Evan downstairs to the basement guest room, which I think he overall enjoys. He likes the cooler air (now that it's summer anyway), and he likes the privacy. It also meant I had to paint Evan's old room and get it ready for Sam. This about killed me, as it was the first room my Dad painted when we moved in. He loved Evan so much, and he wanted Evan to be comfortable in his new room, so within a few days it was wearing a fresh coat of paint. Evan picked out a planets and space border, which my Dad loved, being a space nut himself. My heart ached as I removed the wallpaper and covered the blue paint with green, and the only way I got through it was by reminding myself that Dad would not want me to stop updating the house. He was a firm believer in keeping on top of home renovations and painting, and I knew the painting would make him happy. I also thought about how darn glad I am that I made him teach me how to paint only 3 short years before he died. It's one of the most practical things he ever taught me.
Next I painted the master bathroom, and added some Uppercase Living accents that have been sitting in my closet for the last two years. This job has been lingering on my to do list for years simply because I hate painting behind toilets. Apparently, I am really great at talking myself out of unpleasant tasks. VERY glad to get this one done.
Evan and I dug out a large area of sod in our backyard, killed a ton of weeds, and planted a perennial garden next to our pool. We dragged bag after bag of mulch, and carted out load after load of sod, but sadly neither of us gained any arm muscle doing it. Evan was disgusted at this. I think he'd like to start looking good for the ladies.
And thanks to my wildly talented and handy brother Creighton, we were able to rip out the COMPLETELY craptastic sliding doors on the top and bottom floors and replace them with french doors that have the blinds between the glass that you can raise and lower with a magnet. I love, love, love them. I keep saying on Facebook that I really should have been nicer to Creighton as a kid, and I mean it. We fought like cats and dogs. Worse than that. Once, as my Mom dragged me off the top of him at about the age of 11, she told me I was going to jail if I didn't stop it. Creighton had an incredible talent of being able to push just the right buttons and annoy the hell out of me. But now? That boy takes the best care of me and my family. When my Dad died, it was as if Creighton emerged from a cocoon. He blossomed into an adult who is such an kind and caring leader. He is truly the man and the leader of my family. My Dad left hard shoes to fill, but Creighton does a good job of it. I know my Dad has been busting his buttons with pride in Heaven just watching him. I really feel like he is my older brother now, instead of my baby brother. He is a blessing.
Which is all a long winded way of saying that instead of a really fun summer, it was a working summer, which is nice in a way too. I did tell the kids we would try and do some fun stuff around town, so a couple of weeks ago we headed to the Children's Museum.
Our favorite part was the Wizard of Oz exhibit. The movie has always been a huge favorite with Charlie and Sammy. They loved sitting in the chair of the Wicked Witch of the West, and pretending to be flying monkeys.
That's too bad, as it was also the longest summer break we will probably ever have. Our school is under construction for the second summer in a row, and as a result, we had an extra three weeks to enjoy ourselves.
We didn't get to take a vacation, as we had to do a majorly expensive roof repair, which meant we missed out on the most looked forward to week of the year.
Instead, we tackled some additional home improvement projects that were long overdue.
We separated Sammy and Charlie, and gave each of them their own rooms. This meant moving Evan downstairs to the basement guest room, which I think he overall enjoys. He likes the cooler air (now that it's summer anyway), and he likes the privacy. It also meant I had to paint Evan's old room and get it ready for Sam. This about killed me, as it was the first room my Dad painted when we moved in. He loved Evan so much, and he wanted Evan to be comfortable in his new room, so within a few days it was wearing a fresh coat of paint. Evan picked out a planets and space border, which my Dad loved, being a space nut himself. My heart ached as I removed the wallpaper and covered the blue paint with green, and the only way I got through it was by reminding myself that Dad would not want me to stop updating the house. He was a firm believer in keeping on top of home renovations and painting, and I knew the painting would make him happy. I also thought about how darn glad I am that I made him teach me how to paint only 3 short years before he died. It's one of the most practical things he ever taught me.
Next I painted the master bathroom, and added some Uppercase Living accents that have been sitting in my closet for the last two years. This job has been lingering on my to do list for years simply because I hate painting behind toilets. Apparently, I am really great at talking myself out of unpleasant tasks. VERY glad to get this one done.
Evan and I dug out a large area of sod in our backyard, killed a ton of weeds, and planted a perennial garden next to our pool. We dragged bag after bag of mulch, and carted out load after load of sod, but sadly neither of us gained any arm muscle doing it. Evan was disgusted at this. I think he'd like to start looking good for the ladies.
And thanks to my wildly talented and handy brother Creighton, we were able to rip out the COMPLETELY craptastic sliding doors on the top and bottom floors and replace them with french doors that have the blinds between the glass that you can raise and lower with a magnet. I love, love, love them. I keep saying on Facebook that I really should have been nicer to Creighton as a kid, and I mean it. We fought like cats and dogs. Worse than that. Once, as my Mom dragged me off the top of him at about the age of 11, she told me I was going to jail if I didn't stop it. Creighton had an incredible talent of being able to push just the right buttons and annoy the hell out of me. But now? That boy takes the best care of me and my family. When my Dad died, it was as if Creighton emerged from a cocoon. He blossomed into an adult who is such an kind and caring leader. He is truly the man and the leader of my family. My Dad left hard shoes to fill, but Creighton does a good job of it. I know my Dad has been busting his buttons with pride in Heaven just watching him. I really feel like he is my older brother now, instead of my baby brother. He is a blessing.
Which is all a long winded way of saying that instead of a really fun summer, it was a working summer, which is nice in a way too. I did tell the kids we would try and do some fun stuff around town, so a couple of weeks ago we headed to the Children's Museum.
We also really wanted to go to the zoo, but unfortunately we have been living through the hottest summer of our lifetimes (literally). And it just doesn't sound fun to me to go to the zoo when it is 110 degrees outside. We may have to move this goal to a weekend in the fall.
We've also been swimming almost every single day, and we've gone on some trips for ice cream and slushies as well.
Sammy started out the summer knowing only his alphabet and sounds and a few simple words, and now he is already reading at the level of a first grader. We went out to celebrate with a hot fudge sundae when he learned all of his Kindergarten and 1st grade sight words. I am not above bribery, apparently. Also, if I do say so myself, after all these years of practice, I am a kick ass reading teacher. Want to know my secret for teaching kids sight words? The good old fashioned Dick and Jane books. Yep, the ones from the 1950s. Dick and Jane knew what they were doing. It works every time!!
Even though our summer was busy and maybe not the most exciting, I have enjoyed spending these days with my kiddos. Even the days when Charlie's been grumpy, or we've had too many appointments planned. I am sick to my stomach they will be over all too quickly!
Friday, August 03, 2012
A long time...
Wow. It's been a long time since I've written in this space.
Last weekend, Sammy, Evan, and I went to a family reunion for my Dad's side of the family. We had a GREAT time! I don't get to see my family nearly as often as I would like to, especially my cousins now that we all have families. While I was there, I talked to one of my favorite people, my Aunt Joyce. She reminded me to write some new posts here, so here I am! (Hi Aunt Joyce!!) It was nice to be reminded by family that people still check in here, and that this is still a good way to keep in touch.
So what's new?
We've had a wonderful summer. So wonderful in fact it has prompted Jeff and I to consider whether it is time to make some changes in our work situation for our family. I love my job. I love teaching. I have always, ALWAYS felt that I was called by God to be a teacher, and that He gave me certain gifts to help me accomplish a mission he had in mind for me in the classroom. The hard part of teaching is that it absolutely is NOT a 9-5 job. I spend hours after work and on the weekends creating learning materials, grading, lesson planning, etc. This is easier said than done when you have three kids, and you are a wife. Although I feel that teaching is a calling for me, I also feel that being a wife and a Mom is a God sent calling, one that takes the highest priority.
This summer, as I had time to relax, enjoy my kids, and actually get things done around my house, we came to some conclusions. The first was that other people's kids always get my best. That's tough for me to think about. I want my best to go to my own children, especially when two of my kids are very high needs. Secondly, I realized that I am never able to do anything really to the best of my ability, because I don't have time. Being split in so many different directions is not allowing me to get anything done well. I also discovered how much stress I am carrying around with me during the school year, and how much that is affecting my marriage and my kids.
Sooooo, we have been toying around with the idea of me staying home next year. I have reservations about both sides of the decision, but I truly feel that we are being called to consider this as the next stage for our family. If things can come together financially, we will see how it goes. We are going to be thinking and praying hard about this during the school year.
Evan is getting ready to start his 8th grade year. Junior high is never a super enjoyable time for anyone, but last year was especially hard for Evan. As he works through the upper grades, his learning disabilities are really making things awful. We made the decision that he needs to go to a public high school to receive the appropriate special education help. It was a hard realization to come to. I really wanted him to be able to have the private high school experience, but I know in my gut it isn't the right place for him. Hopefully this year is a bit better.
Charlie is giving me a run for my money. I love him to pieces, and he can have a heart of gold, but he is also very stubborn and willful. He is still having massive temper tantrums, and we have been going to therapy for about a year. I am not seeing any major improvements yet, but they always have good suggestions for us to try, and that gives me hope. Luckily, he is an angel at school, and he is incredibly smart, so at least part of the parenting job with him is easy.
God bless Sammy. He is a ray of sunshine in our family. Always happy, always smiling, always giving hugs. Hardly ever needs redirection or discipline. I think God knew I had my hands full and needed a sweet pea. He is starting Kindergarten in a few weeks, and that makes me sad. They grow so fast. As all mothers do, I long for time to slow waaaaaaaaaaaaaay down so I have longer to enjoy my babies and my family.
Jeff and I celebrated 7 years of marriage on July 22nd. I am crazy in love with that guy. We get better at marriage every year, and it gets to be more and more fun all the time. It really surprised me when I got married how much work marriage is. Work that is worth it, but hard as well. My parents were so good at marriage they made it look easy. Maybe someday Jeff and I will give that impression as well. In the meantime, I am super blessed to have a husband who balances me, believes in me, puts up with me, and supports my dreams. He was definitely worth the wait!
And me? I am feeling better about myself than I have in a long time. Last November, I went to my doctor, very frustrated with how I was getting nowhere with my health goals, despite healthy eating and exercise. He did a lot of tests, and determined that my weight struggles were related to my issues with insulin resistance. He put me on a low carb diet, and for the first time in my life, the weight began to melt away. It was such a relief to begin to see the me I knew was in there in the mirror again. Since then, I have lost a total of 45 pounds. I have been feeling so much better physically, I have been able to go back to running in full force. I've been able to get in a total of 12-15 miles a week, which for me as a busy Mom is GREAT. My runs are great "me" time, where I can destress, think, and get healthy. I love looking better and feeling better, but most of all I love feeling more confident about my overall health. When my Dad died at only 58, my cardiologist told me I was in a very high risk group for also dying early of a heart attack. I do NOT want to leave my family one minute earlier than I absolutely have to. I can at least rest easier knowing that I am doing my best to improve my odds. Thank goodness for my patient doctor who has been willing to do research and stick with me.
Now that it is August, I have been working my tootie off on my classroom. I am trying to work up some excitement for the coming school year. That usually comes more for me in October, once the students and I have settled in. August is a rush to get everything done. I always wish I could fast forward through the first few weeks.
I know I've said this before, but I am going to try and get back to this space on the web more regularly. I always feel better when I do. I am hoping to post some pictures this weekend.
Last weekend, Sammy, Evan, and I went to a family reunion for my Dad's side of the family. We had a GREAT time! I don't get to see my family nearly as often as I would like to, especially my cousins now that we all have families. While I was there, I talked to one of my favorite people, my Aunt Joyce. She reminded me to write some new posts here, so here I am! (Hi Aunt Joyce!!) It was nice to be reminded by family that people still check in here, and that this is still a good way to keep in touch.
So what's new?
We've had a wonderful summer. So wonderful in fact it has prompted Jeff and I to consider whether it is time to make some changes in our work situation for our family. I love my job. I love teaching. I have always, ALWAYS felt that I was called by God to be a teacher, and that He gave me certain gifts to help me accomplish a mission he had in mind for me in the classroom. The hard part of teaching is that it absolutely is NOT a 9-5 job. I spend hours after work and on the weekends creating learning materials, grading, lesson planning, etc. This is easier said than done when you have three kids, and you are a wife. Although I feel that teaching is a calling for me, I also feel that being a wife and a Mom is a God sent calling, one that takes the highest priority.
This summer, as I had time to relax, enjoy my kids, and actually get things done around my house, we came to some conclusions. The first was that other people's kids always get my best. That's tough for me to think about. I want my best to go to my own children, especially when two of my kids are very high needs. Secondly, I realized that I am never able to do anything really to the best of my ability, because I don't have time. Being split in so many different directions is not allowing me to get anything done well. I also discovered how much stress I am carrying around with me during the school year, and how much that is affecting my marriage and my kids.
Sooooo, we have been toying around with the idea of me staying home next year. I have reservations about both sides of the decision, but I truly feel that we are being called to consider this as the next stage for our family. If things can come together financially, we will see how it goes. We are going to be thinking and praying hard about this during the school year.
Evan is getting ready to start his 8th grade year. Junior high is never a super enjoyable time for anyone, but last year was especially hard for Evan. As he works through the upper grades, his learning disabilities are really making things awful. We made the decision that he needs to go to a public high school to receive the appropriate special education help. It was a hard realization to come to. I really wanted him to be able to have the private high school experience, but I know in my gut it isn't the right place for him. Hopefully this year is a bit better.
Charlie is giving me a run for my money. I love him to pieces, and he can have a heart of gold, but he is also very stubborn and willful. He is still having massive temper tantrums, and we have been going to therapy for about a year. I am not seeing any major improvements yet, but they always have good suggestions for us to try, and that gives me hope. Luckily, he is an angel at school, and he is incredibly smart, so at least part of the parenting job with him is easy.
God bless Sammy. He is a ray of sunshine in our family. Always happy, always smiling, always giving hugs. Hardly ever needs redirection or discipline. I think God knew I had my hands full and needed a sweet pea. He is starting Kindergarten in a few weeks, and that makes me sad. They grow so fast. As all mothers do, I long for time to slow waaaaaaaaaaaaaay down so I have longer to enjoy my babies and my family.
Jeff and I celebrated 7 years of marriage on July 22nd. I am crazy in love with that guy. We get better at marriage every year, and it gets to be more and more fun all the time. It really surprised me when I got married how much work marriage is. Work that is worth it, but hard as well. My parents were so good at marriage they made it look easy. Maybe someday Jeff and I will give that impression as well. In the meantime, I am super blessed to have a husband who balances me, believes in me, puts up with me, and supports my dreams. He was definitely worth the wait!
And me? I am feeling better about myself than I have in a long time. Last November, I went to my doctor, very frustrated with how I was getting nowhere with my health goals, despite healthy eating and exercise. He did a lot of tests, and determined that my weight struggles were related to my issues with insulin resistance. He put me on a low carb diet, and for the first time in my life, the weight began to melt away. It was such a relief to begin to see the me I knew was in there in the mirror again. Since then, I have lost a total of 45 pounds. I have been feeling so much better physically, I have been able to go back to running in full force. I've been able to get in a total of 12-15 miles a week, which for me as a busy Mom is GREAT. My runs are great "me" time, where I can destress, think, and get healthy. I love looking better and feeling better, but most of all I love feeling more confident about my overall health. When my Dad died at only 58, my cardiologist told me I was in a very high risk group for also dying early of a heart attack. I do NOT want to leave my family one minute earlier than I absolutely have to. I can at least rest easier knowing that I am doing my best to improve my odds. Thank goodness for my patient doctor who has been willing to do research and stick with me.
Now that it is August, I have been working my tootie off on my classroom. I am trying to work up some excitement for the coming school year. That usually comes more for me in October, once the students and I have settled in. August is a rush to get everything done. I always wish I could fast forward through the first few weeks.
I know I've said this before, but I am going to try and get back to this space on the web more regularly. I always feel better when I do. I am hoping to post some pictures this weekend.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Good Bye 2011
One of my favorite bloggers, Audrey McClelland from Mom Generations, says at the end of the year she likes to look back at three things: health, happiness, and family. I really like this idea...to me these are some of the most important things in my life, with the addition of faith.
I struggled with my health this year. In light of my Dad's death at only 58 from genetic heart issues, I am hyper aware of my health. I know that what I do now can greatly affect how much time I get to spend on earth with my precious family. My PCOS is getting worse, and I know this can also impact my heart health. I feel great that my new diet, which is really more of a lifestyle change, is helping this. I've already lost 10% of my body weight. I have an appointment scheduled with a new specialist next week, and I going to be picking the brain of a very wise friend who also has PCOS to hopefully get more of my symptoms under control. It's my goal in 2012 to do everything I can to get healthier.
There isn't a day that goes by that I am not thankful for my family. We have had our challenges this year with both Evan and Charlie, but Jeff and I took positive steps in helping our children to improve in their academics and their behavior. It's been hard, but I am so proud of us for working hard on these things. Parenting...no one can prepare you for how HARD it can be!! This year, I want to be more purposeful and present in my actions as a Mom. Too many days I am just trying to get by and get through. I don't want to waste my time with them.
And my husband...my wonderful husband. Jeff is the greatest gift I will every receive from the Lord. Having this man to walk next to in this journey is a blessing I am thankful for EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. I try not to ever take him for granted. I fall more in love with him every day I have the honor of being his wife.
Happiness and faith have been so intertwined for me since September 28, 2010, the day my Daddy went to heaven. In 2011, we continued to heal. We are learning to be happy again. But I have learned you never ever stop grieving, and the hole in our family will always be there. You just learn how to cope with it...which for me is through faith. It brings me such comfort to know that my Dad's life and death, and how it intertwines with my own, was known by God and in His hands long ago. It brings me comfort to know that God is working great things in my heart through this experience, and that He has never left my side as we move through this new life without my Dad. And above all, I take joy in knowing I WILL be with my Dad again, and I want him to be proud of how I carried on and the life I lead after he had to leave. It's my goal in 2012 to make choices that both my Heavenly Father and my Dad will be proud of.
I'm looking forward to 2012. I am hoping to have a year of growth. I want to be a blessing to those around me.
I struggled with my health this year. In light of my Dad's death at only 58 from genetic heart issues, I am hyper aware of my health. I know that what I do now can greatly affect how much time I get to spend on earth with my precious family. My PCOS is getting worse, and I know this can also impact my heart health. I feel great that my new diet, which is really more of a lifestyle change, is helping this. I've already lost 10% of my body weight. I have an appointment scheduled with a new specialist next week, and I going to be picking the brain of a very wise friend who also has PCOS to hopefully get more of my symptoms under control. It's my goal in 2012 to do everything I can to get healthier.
There isn't a day that goes by that I am not thankful for my family. We have had our challenges this year with both Evan and Charlie, but Jeff and I took positive steps in helping our children to improve in their academics and their behavior. It's been hard, but I am so proud of us for working hard on these things. Parenting...no one can prepare you for how HARD it can be!! This year, I want to be more purposeful and present in my actions as a Mom. Too many days I am just trying to get by and get through. I don't want to waste my time with them.
And my husband...my wonderful husband. Jeff is the greatest gift I will every receive from the Lord. Having this man to walk next to in this journey is a blessing I am thankful for EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. I try not to ever take him for granted. I fall more in love with him every day I have the honor of being his wife.
Happiness and faith have been so intertwined for me since September 28, 2010, the day my Daddy went to heaven. In 2011, we continued to heal. We are learning to be happy again. But I have learned you never ever stop grieving, and the hole in our family will always be there. You just learn how to cope with it...which for me is through faith. It brings me such comfort to know that my Dad's life and death, and how it intertwines with my own, was known by God and in His hands long ago. It brings me comfort to know that God is working great things in my heart through this experience, and that He has never left my side as we move through this new life without my Dad. And above all, I take joy in knowing I WILL be with my Dad again, and I want him to be proud of how I carried on and the life I lead after he had to leave. It's my goal in 2012 to make choices that both my Heavenly Father and my Dad will be proud of.
I'm looking forward to 2012. I am hoping to have a year of growth. I want to be a blessing to those around me.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Company Girl Coffee AND a Long Overdue Update
1. Post something new on my blog
2. Participate in Company Girl Coffee
SO, I am going to try starting off 2012 the right way by doing both. Welcome to all of you Company Girls! Please take some coffee (mine is Starbucks, fresh out of my coffee maker~wish I could send you some!) and relax with me for awhile.
So much has been happening here! Charlie is LOVING Kindergarten. So much so that he wanted to go back to school the Monday after Christmas. Crazy, right? He is doing a great job with learning to read, which is such a relief to me. Evan, our oldest, was diagnosed with a learning disability when he was in Kindergarten. School has been such a struggle for him, and it breaks my heart! I have been praying hard for Charlie and Sammy that they will not have this hardship in their lives.
I have finally started to achieve one of my New Year's Resolutions for 2011, even though it happened late in the year. I went to my doctor at the end of October, and told him how extremely frustrated I was with dieting. I had been running 3 miles, 5 days a week and doing Weight Watchers for months and I was GAINING weight!! Can you believe it? I was ready to give up completely. My thought was if dieting makes me gain weight, I'm going back to eating whatever I want! Dr. A put me on a low glycemic index/Atkins type diet, and suddenly the weight started melting away. Since November 6th, I have lost 21 pounds. Such a relief!! Since my Dad died, I've really been trying to get my health and weight under control, and I am so glad to finally be on the right track. (Also, it's been lots of fun to get new SMALLER clothes for Christmas!)
So, with one of my long time goals on the right track, I am recommitting to making Sanctuary in my home in 2012. This is an area I really let slide this year...as usual I am having a hard time balancing work (I am a teacher and always have lots of work to do at home, as well as at school), being a wife and mom, and somehow keeping my house clean. I am looking forward to working with Rachel Ann and the other Company Girls at Home Sanctuary to achieve this!!
Happy 2012 everyone! My prayer for my family and yours is that it's a GREAT one!!!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
School Stuff
I have been away from this blog for way too long...but school this is year is making SO.DARN.TIRED!!!
I don't know if it is the added responsibility of having two in school this year, or if I was just way too lazy this summer, but every night has seen me ready for sleep by 9:00.
Charlie, for the most part, is loving Kindergarten.
I don't know if it is the added responsibility of having two in school this year, or if I was just way too lazy this summer, but every night has seen me ready for sleep by 9:00.
Charlie, for the most part, is loving Kindergarten.
Here he is with his new teacher this year. I think he is learning a lot already! He loves art class, library, and math, but was horrified to discover he has to go to music classes. After he went to music the first time, he told me "Mom, can you believe this school wants to teach me how to sing?!!" He is also not a fan of the After School Care program that he goes to for about half an hour after school until I can pick him up. Hopefully as he gets used to the routine, this will get better. Evan was a good big brother and went with him to After School Care the whole second week of school just so Charlie could feel more comfortable. I love it when they love each other!!
My class is awesome this year! They are already so well behaved and eager to learn that it has been fun to go to work everyday. I also have a student teacher for the first time, and that has been so much fun! She is already an outstanding teacher, and I am learning a lot from her.
Evan is not loving Junior High, which makes me sad, but when I think back on it, I don't know many people who do. I can't think of one person who says "I would do anything to go back to Junior High!" It is such an awkward stage of life. I suppose it is something we all just have to get through. Having him be a grump everyday after school has been a little tiring.
I became an Aunt again this week when my sister had her 4th...little Leo John. It was exciting to meet him last night. One of my favorite friends at school had her baby not even 24 hours after my sister, so it has been raining babies this week! Unfortunately for Jeff, I now have some major baby fever. Sadly, we are done adding to our family, so I am concentrating on my three awesome boys who keep me hopping...such as when Sammy threw a major fit before school yesterday when he didn't like the clothes I picked out for him for school pictures. He told me "Mom, you just don't know ANYTHING about good clothes!" Holy cow! From my 4 year old BOY! He is such a fashionista!! I don't know what we'll do when he has to wear a uniform to school next year!
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Back to School Crazies
We have been busy this week. Busy as in the back to school crazies. This week we got Charlie and Evan squared away on uniforms and school supplies. Having two kids to get ready for school this year was a LOT more work that just one. Charlie is super excited about Kindergarten though, so it was fun to see all of the preparations through his eyes. He just shone with excitement when he saw himself in his uniform for the first time. He had a blast picking out every green school supply he could find. (Apparently green is his new favorite color).
It never fails that every summer around this time I start my back to school nightmares. Dreams where I am trying to set up my classroom, and my class suddenly appears out of nowhere and the room is a disaster. Or sometimes I dream I get lost on the way to school the first day. Or that I make it to school but can't seem to find my classroom. I think I have anxiety dreams about going back to school because I have such a hard time saying good bye to summer. I absolutely love being home with my kids. I love having the time I need to focus on our home and daily chores. I love not having a frantic schedule. Besides our financial need for me to work, teaching for me is more than a job. I truly feel like it is a calling from God. I know I wouldn't be fulfilling my mission here on earth if I wasn't teaching kids to read.
Monday and Tuesday I will be setting up my classroom, and I know I will feel better after that. Having that monumental task under my belt always makes me feel better. I wonder if the students and parents realize that most teachers are just as nervous as the kids on the first day of school ? :)
It never fails that every summer around this time I start my back to school nightmares. Dreams where I am trying to set up my classroom, and my class suddenly appears out of nowhere and the room is a disaster. Or sometimes I dream I get lost on the way to school the first day. Or that I make it to school but can't seem to find my classroom. I think I have anxiety dreams about going back to school because I have such a hard time saying good bye to summer. I absolutely love being home with my kids. I love having the time I need to focus on our home and daily chores. I love not having a frantic schedule. Besides our financial need for me to work, teaching for me is more than a job. I truly feel like it is a calling from God. I know I wouldn't be fulfilling my mission here on earth if I wasn't teaching kids to read.
Monday and Tuesday I will be setting up my classroom, and I know I will feel better after that. Having that monumental task under my belt always makes me feel better. I wonder if the students and parents realize that most teachers are just as nervous as the kids on the first day of school ? :)
Thursday, July 07, 2011
Good-Bye Nursery
In November 2006, just before I delivered Sam, my Dad painted and wall papered the baby's room with adorable little frog princes and a calming light green color. You can see our newly finished nursery with double cribs here. (Gosh this brings back memories...seeing those two cribs together. It was so surreal to tuck in my two tiny babies, only 10 months and 10 days apart. Having Irish twins is not for the faint of heart.)
A couple of months ago, I noticed a small hole had appeared in the wallpaper. As the hole got bigger over the coming weeks, I knew it was a sign that it was time to update Charlie and Sammy's room. It made my heart hurt. I'm sad to say goodbye to the nursery, small toddler stage. My boys are growing up, and ready for something a little more "boyish" instead of babyish in their bedroom. I was also dreading having to redo something in the house that my Dad had done for me. Having that wallpaper in the room was a visual reminder of his love for me and for his grandchildren.
Yesterday I bit the bullet. I took pictures beforehand to remember the room by, and then I told myself that my Dad's love wasn't just put on the walls, it was poured into my heart. And no matter how the walls look, my Dad still loves me. I also reminded myself that a hole in the wallpaper would have driven him nuts, and he would have wanted me to get this makeover on the road.
Over the years the room has changed a bit...like Charlie's addition of his "art wall". He loves to color, and insists on decorating our walls with his creations.
We added bunk beds in 2008. You may notice that on these two walls the border is missing. Putting Charlie in the top bunk allowed him access to the border as a toddler, and one day while having a temper tantrum, he ripped the whole thing off. One of the times as a mother I have been most angry.
Yesterday I took down all the wallpaper, scrubbed the glue off the walls, and repaired wall dings. We are off to get paint today, and soon we will start the transformation. But there is one thing I won't change. Whenever my dad would wallpaper or put up a border in a room, he would take a small square and put it on the light switch. It added a creative touch to the room, and one that said "Dad" to me. And so, even though it won't match, this will be staying just the way it is in their room. A little piece of Poppo to hold on to.
I'll post some pictures when I'm done. I hope the boys like it!
A couple of months ago, I noticed a small hole had appeared in the wallpaper. As the hole got bigger over the coming weeks, I knew it was a sign that it was time to update Charlie and Sammy's room. It made my heart hurt. I'm sad to say goodbye to the nursery, small toddler stage. My boys are growing up, and ready for something a little more "boyish" instead of babyish in their bedroom. I was also dreading having to redo something in the house that my Dad had done for me. Having that wallpaper in the room was a visual reminder of his love for me and for his grandchildren.
Yesterday I bit the bullet. I took pictures beforehand to remember the room by, and then I told myself that my Dad's love wasn't just put on the walls, it was poured into my heart. And no matter how the walls look, my Dad still loves me. I also reminded myself that a hole in the wallpaper would have driven him nuts, and he would have wanted me to get this makeover on the road.
Over the years the room has changed a bit...like Charlie's addition of his "art wall". He loves to color, and insists on decorating our walls with his creations.
We added bunk beds in 2008. You may notice that on these two walls the border is missing. Putting Charlie in the top bunk allowed him access to the border as a toddler, and one day while having a temper tantrum, he ripped the whole thing off. One of the times as a mother I have been most angry.
Yesterday I took down all the wallpaper, scrubbed the glue off the walls, and repaired wall dings. We are off to get paint today, and soon we will start the transformation. But there is one thing I won't change. Whenever my dad would wallpaper or put up a border in a room, he would take a small square and put it on the light switch. It added a creative touch to the room, and one that said "Dad" to me. And so, even though it won't match, this will be staying just the way it is in their room. A little piece of Poppo to hold on to.
I'll post some pictures when I'm done. I hope the boys like it!
Tuesday, July 05, 2011
Brotherly Love
The best part of my 4th of July was this:
Could they be any cuter?! I love that these two love each other. They melt my heart!
Could they be any cuter?! I love that these two love each other. They melt my heart!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Charlie: Class of 2011
Yesterday afternoon, my baby Charlie graduated from preschool. My baby who has somehow morphed into a precocious five and a half year old.
He was adorable and proud as he received his diploma. But I think occasions and rights of passage such as these are always bitter sweet for us mothers. I love watching him grow and develop into the person God created him to be. At the same time, I yearn for the small chubby baby I rocked to sleep in the wee hours of the morning.
There were only 4 graduates in his class. I am anxious and excited to see how he will make the transition to 90 Kindergarten classmates.
I am beyond thankful for the women who nurtured my baby the past 5 years during the times when I had to be away. They have been a gift!
And now? We are off to enjoy the magical days of summer.
He was adorable and proud as he received his diploma. But I think occasions and rights of passage such as these are always bitter sweet for us mothers. I love watching him grow and develop into the person God created him to be. At the same time, I yearn for the small chubby baby I rocked to sleep in the wee hours of the morning.
There were only 4 graduates in his class. I am anxious and excited to see how he will make the transition to 90 Kindergarten classmates.
I am beyond thankful for the women who nurtured my baby the past 5 years during the times when I had to be away. They have been a gift!
And now? We are off to enjoy the magical days of summer.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Birthdays and Other News
Boy, did we have a crazy weekend.
On Sunday, the dog got out of the yard, and I ended up having to chase him like the marathon runner I am NOT. That crafty dog kept looking over his shoulder to make sure I was still behind him. I think Aspen was having the time of his life, and thought he had invented a grand game for us to play! He is lucky that I love him, and that I have been running on the treadmill, or there is no way I would have kept up with him. Luckily for me, he got distracted by a pile of dog "doodoo" that he needed to sniff, or I don't know what I would have done.
This all happened as we were supposed to be leaving for my nephew Colin's birthday party. We were late to the party, and had only been there for about an hour when disaster struck again. Sammy and the other cousins had already finished eating, so they went into the basement to play. Somehow, Sammy tripped, fell, and face planted right on top of a toy box. He took a chunk out of his cheek, and we had to take him to the emergency room. He needed 7 stitches on the top layer, and some underneath. I have never seen so much blood! He also severely bit the inside of his cheek, so eating has been a challenge today. I don't know if you can tell in the picture below, but his cheek is so swollen it looks like he has an apple stuffed in his mouth.
My poor Sammy bear! He was impressed he got to watch Toy Story at the hospital, and he was so, SO brave. He didn't make a peep while they were stitching him up, and he held so still. I am so proud of him!
And today? Today is my Charlie's birthday. It was 5 years ago that this 10 pound, 23 1/2 inch bundle of joy was placed in my arms:
I love that my Dad is holding my hand in this picture. I love that I had the most important men in my life holding my hands as I met my new little man for the first time.
Sometimes I miss Daddy so much it steals my breath away. Today is one of those days.
I am thankful that God has given me Charlie, and that he is 5 today. He is so spirited, and creative, and amazingly smart. Sometimes it steals my breath away that I am lucky enough to be his mom. And today is one of those days.
Despite the craziness, the stitches and blood, the sorrows, and the hard work that goes into my life, I am thankful. And so blessed. So very blessed.
On Sunday, the dog got out of the yard, and I ended up having to chase him like the marathon runner I am NOT. That crafty dog kept looking over his shoulder to make sure I was still behind him. I think Aspen was having the time of his life, and thought he had invented a grand game for us to play! He is lucky that I love him, and that I have been running on the treadmill, or there is no way I would have kept up with him. Luckily for me, he got distracted by a pile of dog "doodoo" that he needed to sniff, or I don't know what I would have done.
This all happened as we were supposed to be leaving for my nephew Colin's birthday party. We were late to the party, and had only been there for about an hour when disaster struck again. Sammy and the other cousins had already finished eating, so they went into the basement to play. Somehow, Sammy tripped, fell, and face planted right on top of a toy box. He took a chunk out of his cheek, and we had to take him to the emergency room. He needed 7 stitches on the top layer, and some underneath. I have never seen so much blood! He also severely bit the inside of his cheek, so eating has been a challenge today. I don't know if you can tell in the picture below, but his cheek is so swollen it looks like he has an apple stuffed in his mouth.
My poor Sammy bear! He was impressed he got to watch Toy Story at the hospital, and he was so, SO brave. He didn't make a peep while they were stitching him up, and he held so still. I am so proud of him!
And today? Today is my Charlie's birthday. It was 5 years ago that this 10 pound, 23 1/2 inch bundle of joy was placed in my arms:
And here is me, shortly before I was ready to push Charlie into the world. I love how Charlie and I were both so surrounded by love and family and friends that day. My parents were both in the room to see each of my children enter the world, and I am so thankful.
Sometimes I miss Daddy so much it steals my breath away. Today is one of those days.
I am thankful that God has given me Charlie, and that he is 5 today. He is so spirited, and creative, and amazingly smart. Sometimes it steals my breath away that I am lucky enough to be his mom. And today is one of those days.
Despite the craziness, the stitches and blood, the sorrows, and the hard work that goes into my life, I am thankful. And so blessed. So very blessed.
Monday, January 10, 2011
SNOW DAY!
Good morning! It is the happiest of days in a teacher's life this morning! We are having a SNOW DAY here at the Sole Woman. It's been snowing since yesterday morning, and we have about 6 inches on the ground-and it is still going strong! Here's a picture I took this morning with a new photo program I am playing around with on my iPhone (I love the old fashioned feel it gives photos):
I am sitting with my coffee, looking at the snow falling quietly outside the window. My family is all tucked inside, warm and safe. Jeff is working from home today, Evan is taking advantage of his day off by sleeping (he is SO 12!!), and Charlie and Sammy are snuggled up on the couch under blankets talking about what they will be doing outside later today.
Bliss!
Since I have nowhere to go and nothing to do but enjoy my coffee, I thought I would give you an update of life around our house. I forgot to mention that my darling husband bought me for Christmas the gift I have been dreaming of for the last 8 years....drumroll please....a KitchenAid mixer!! (And she is a beautiful cherry red too!) I guess I haven't talked about it a lot here, but I love to bake. I love to do things homemade. My go to stress reliever is bread baking, much to the delight of my husband. I think he secretly loves it when I have a bad day, because he knows there is a loaf of fresh baked bread in his future. Since I first moved into my own space, I have been using my mom's cast off mixer, which was a gift from her 1974 wedding. About 6 months ago, he lost a leg, and I had to prop it up on a piece of wood so it wouldn't wobble while I mixed. The thing drove me bananas. If the recipe called for more than 3 cups of flour, the batter would climb up the beaters and try and get into the motor. It was beyond frustrating to try and mix up dough for Christmas cookies.
I will admit that I screamed when I opened it on Christmas morning. I love it. Seriously. I am not one to keep appliance on the kitchen counters, but I love my mixer so much, she has a place of honor on the counter. (And besides, she's red! So she coordinates with my kitchen!!) I have been trying out lots of new recipes, and I have been playing around with made from scratch cakes. Do any of you have any recipes for homemade cakes? Or tips? Mine haven't been the greatest.
This week I had to submit all of Charlie's documents and paperwork for Kindergarten registration. It's really starting to hit home that he's going to school next year. I know every mother feels like their kids grow up too fast, but it is UNBELIEVABLE to me how quickly his first 5 years have gone. In fact, he is turning 5 on the 17th, and he is beyond excited. I know he's ready for this new adventure, so I am trying to get my heart to accept this.
I am off to bake some bread! (Not because I am stressed today :) Just because it sounds nice!) I hope you are warm and cozy on this January Monday.
I am sitting with my coffee, looking at the snow falling quietly outside the window. My family is all tucked inside, warm and safe. Jeff is working from home today, Evan is taking advantage of his day off by sleeping (he is SO 12!!), and Charlie and Sammy are snuggled up on the couch under blankets talking about what they will be doing outside later today.
Bliss!
Since I have nowhere to go and nothing to do but enjoy my coffee, I thought I would give you an update of life around our house. I forgot to mention that my darling husband bought me for Christmas the gift I have been dreaming of for the last 8 years....drumroll please....a KitchenAid mixer!! (And she is a beautiful cherry red too!) I guess I haven't talked about it a lot here, but I love to bake. I love to do things homemade. My go to stress reliever is bread baking, much to the delight of my husband. I think he secretly loves it when I have a bad day, because he knows there is a loaf of fresh baked bread in his future. Since I first moved into my own space, I have been using my mom's cast off mixer, which was a gift from her 1974 wedding. About 6 months ago, he lost a leg, and I had to prop it up on a piece of wood so it wouldn't wobble while I mixed. The thing drove me bananas. If the recipe called for more than 3 cups of flour, the batter would climb up the beaters and try and get into the motor. It was beyond frustrating to try and mix up dough for Christmas cookies.
I will admit that I screamed when I opened it on Christmas morning. I love it. Seriously. I am not one to keep appliance on the kitchen counters, but I love my mixer so much, she has a place of honor on the counter. (And besides, she's red! So she coordinates with my kitchen!!) I have been trying out lots of new recipes, and I have been playing around with made from scratch cakes. Do any of you have any recipes for homemade cakes? Or tips? Mine haven't been the greatest.
This week I had to submit all of Charlie's documents and paperwork for Kindergarten registration. It's really starting to hit home that he's going to school next year. I know every mother feels like their kids grow up too fast, but it is UNBELIEVABLE to me how quickly his first 5 years have gone. In fact, he is turning 5 on the 17th, and he is beyond excited. I know he's ready for this new adventure, so I am trying to get my heart to accept this.
I am off to bake some bread! (Not because I am stressed today :) Just because it sounds nice!) I hope you are warm and cozy on this January Monday.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
And so this is Christmas...
I have been missing my little blog. I didn't mean to neglect it this month, but December? It's been crazy.
I know it's crazy for everybody, and I shouldn't complain. Not all of it has been bad crazy. There have been good moments, like Evan singing in a trio at the 6-8 Christmas concert at school.
Or when Charlie and Sammy sang their preschool Christmas program, and neither were scared to perform. Sammy now loves to walk around the house singing "Up On the Housetop", which is cuter than anything.
Or when my aunts, mom, and sister and I all got together and baked our brains out, and made hundreds of Christmas goodies, all in one day.
Or when I sang with the choir at Mass for my first performance sing my Dad died. Music lifts my spirit, and singing in church makes me feel surrounded by God's love. It's been so very healing.
Or when I got to spend my very favorite three weeks of the year with my class at school. There is nothing more magical than spending time with small children in December. I love my 1st graders. They've helped me to heal too.
Or when I got to go out to dinner with a good friend, and just talk. I love girl time.
There have also been ear aches, sinus infections, bronchitis, and crazy schedules, but I guess in looking back, I notice the good makes up for the crazy.
The good also helps to make up a little bit for the grief. I miss my Dad. SO much. Of course, it is harder around the holidays, but the every day things are so much harder to me. I wanted him to see Evan sing (and I prayed like crazy that he could peek down from heaven and see Evan, so brave up on that stage...and I really think he did). I want to call him on the phone and ask him a question. I want to see him at church. I want to drink coffee with him at breakfast on Sunday. I want to tell him I love him.
I'm getting by. I'm still excited about Christmas, mostly because my kids are excited. I still feel joy and happiness in my life and my family. But December would be so much better with Dad here with me. Maybe that's selfish, because I know how much joy he must be experiencing in heaven. The glory of Christmas in heaven must be incredible! I just wish we had gotten to have a little more time together here on Earth first.
I know it's crazy for everybody, and I shouldn't complain. Not all of it has been bad crazy. There have been good moments, like Evan singing in a trio at the 6-8 Christmas concert at school.
Or when Charlie and Sammy sang their preschool Christmas program, and neither were scared to perform. Sammy now loves to walk around the house singing "Up On the Housetop", which is cuter than anything.
Or when my aunts, mom, and sister and I all got together and baked our brains out, and made hundreds of Christmas goodies, all in one day.
Or when I sang with the choir at Mass for my first performance sing my Dad died. Music lifts my spirit, and singing in church makes me feel surrounded by God's love. It's been so very healing.
Or when I got to spend my very favorite three weeks of the year with my class at school. There is nothing more magical than spending time with small children in December. I love my 1st graders. They've helped me to heal too.
Or when I got to go out to dinner with a good friend, and just talk. I love girl time.
There have also been ear aches, sinus infections, bronchitis, and crazy schedules, but I guess in looking back, I notice the good makes up for the crazy.
The good also helps to make up a little bit for the grief. I miss my Dad. SO much. Of course, it is harder around the holidays, but the every day things are so much harder to me. I wanted him to see Evan sing (and I prayed like crazy that he could peek down from heaven and see Evan, so brave up on that stage...and I really think he did). I want to call him on the phone and ask him a question. I want to see him at church. I want to drink coffee with him at breakfast on Sunday. I want to tell him I love him.
I'm getting by. I'm still excited about Christmas, mostly because my kids are excited. I still feel joy and happiness in my life and my family. But December would be so much better with Dad here with me. Maybe that's selfish, because I know how much joy he must be experiencing in heaven. The glory of Christmas in heaven must be incredible! I just wish we had gotten to have a little more time together here on Earth first.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
Charlie is a Soccer Star
This spring provided Charlie with his first team sports experience. He played micro soccer for Gretna Soccer. It was a much better experience than we had with the YMCA soccer teams, and we are excited to have both Charlie and Sammy involved in the fall season.
Isn't he adorable? The hard thing about the whole experience was that our family's true sports fanatic, Sammy, was too young to play and had to watch the action. I bought him a pair of cleats so he could feel special too, and he kicked around a ball on an empty field near the game. He is beyond excited to join Charlie in August.
Charlie had good games and bad games, and one time got hit in the stomach so hard with a ball that he passed out, but all in all, he is loving the game of soccer, and I am loving that I am back to being a soccer mom.
Charlie had good games and bad games, and one time got hit in the stomach so hard with a ball that he passed out, but all in all, he is loving the game of soccer, and I am loving that I am back to being a soccer mom.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Birthday Love
Four years ago today, at 3:45 PM, I got to see the beautiful face of my Charlie for the first time.
At 10 pounds, 23 1/4 inches, it was a face that already had deliciously chubby cheeks.
All of the people that helped to welcome Charlie into the world 4 years ago today came to our house to help celebrate. One of the most special things for me about Charlie's birth was that my awesome friend Christi was there to help.
Christi with her daughter Alyssa
There is something so powerful about sharing the birth experience with other women. Having Christi there to rub my back, encourage me that I was almost there, and to see Charlie make his entrance meant more to me than I can put in words. It means just as much when Christi and her family come to help Charlie welcome in a new year.
Both of my darling Godson's came over to party. Aren't they the most handsome boys?
Godson Colin is 5
Godson Joel is ALMOST 3. (I was there to see his birth!! It was one of the most AWESOME moments of my life! Joel is Christi's son).
Charlie is my most high spirited child. He is fearless, determined, and stubborn. He is a social butterfly, and will talk to everyone and anyone. He is a snuggler to the extreme, and gives the best of hugs. He tries my patience like no other, and fills my heart with love and joy, all at the same time. He is a gift I am forever thankful for.
One of my clearest memories of that first week home with my new baby Charlie was sitting curled up in a recliner with Charlie tucked into the crook of my arm, a warm quilt tucked around both of us. I spent the whole day snuggling with him, just looking at him. Memorizing his features, and touching his sweet new baby skin.
Yesterday, after the guests had gone home, I sat down in that same chair to rest for a minute. Charlie brought over that very same quilt, and asked if he could snuggle. Tired from all the excitement and missing his afternoon nap, he curled up into my side, the quilt tucked in close around us, and went to sleep. I looked down into his 4 year old face, and kissed his sweet cheeks. It was one of those perfect moments that life gifts us. I tucked it into my heart to take out and remember when Charlie is grown. The perfect way to end a wonderful day.
Happy Birthday Char Char. I love you to the moon and back!
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Boys!
My preschoolers kept their teachers on their toes today.
This morning, after only 30 minutes at school, Sammy tripped while running in the gym and split his chin open. We were sure he was going to need stitches, as it was a pretty long cut, so my Mom (who works at the daycare at my school) headed off to the ER with Sammy in tow. Sammy was really impressed to be presented with a mask that made him look just like a doctor, to be asked to sit and watch Disney channel cartoons for an hour, and to be given some markers to color with. Luckily the doctor decided glue would be good enough to seal the cut, so no stitches were needed. On the way back to school Sammy asked my Mom if he was ever going to get to eat breakfast, since he had been whisked off to the hospital before breakfast was served at school. To top off his fun morning, Grandma took him to breakfast at Burger King. He was thoroughly impressed with his royal treatment. This was another one of those times when I thank my lucky stars that my mom works at the same school I do.
Charlie is lucky to be in one piece this evening. His class was on a walk to the nursing home across the street from school this morning when he dashed across the street-RIGHT in front of an oncoming car. He teacher reported it was the scariest thing she has seen in 20 years of teaching preschool. I wanted to yell at him and smother him in kisses all at the same time. He spent some time in his room tonight while the rest of us watched our nightly Christmas movie, and we said a BIG prayer of thanks to his guardian angel.
Needless to say, my boys will all be getting crash helmets for Christmas.
This morning, after only 30 minutes at school, Sammy tripped while running in the gym and split his chin open. We were sure he was going to need stitches, as it was a pretty long cut, so my Mom (who works at the daycare at my school) headed off to the ER with Sammy in tow. Sammy was really impressed to be presented with a mask that made him look just like a doctor, to be asked to sit and watch Disney channel cartoons for an hour, and to be given some markers to color with. Luckily the doctor decided glue would be good enough to seal the cut, so no stitches were needed. On the way back to school Sammy asked my Mom if he was ever going to get to eat breakfast, since he had been whisked off to the hospital before breakfast was served at school. To top off his fun morning, Grandma took him to breakfast at Burger King. He was thoroughly impressed with his royal treatment. This was another one of those times when I thank my lucky stars that my mom works at the same school I do.
Charlie is lucky to be in one piece this evening. His class was on a walk to the nursing home across the street from school this morning when he dashed across the street-RIGHT in front of an oncoming car. He teacher reported it was the scariest thing she has seen in 20 years of teaching preschool. I wanted to yell at him and smother him in kisses all at the same time. He spent some time in his room tonight while the rest of us watched our nightly Christmas movie, and we said a BIG prayer of thanks to his guardian angel.
Needless to say, my boys will all be getting crash helmets for Christmas.
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Germs Germs Germs
I was excited on Monday to be able to have a normal week with healthy children and 5 days of school to catch up on things at work.
The germs attacking my family had other plans. They decided our week with H1N1 and high fevers last week was not nearly enough fun!
So today, when Charlie woke up from his nap, he had a fever of 104 again. Awesome!
Back to the doctor we went, where we discovered he had a raging case of strep. His pediatrician said it was one of the worst he has seen he has seen in a long time, probably because his immune system was in poor shape after his bout with the flu.
I am back to sanitizing the house, even though I just went through this ritual over the weekend. I just don't want ANY MORE SICKNESS. Does everyone hear me?! I AM DONE WITH THESE GERMS. Amen, The end.
The germs attacking my family had other plans. They decided our week with H1N1 and high fevers last week was not nearly enough fun!
So today, when Charlie woke up from his nap, he had a fever of 104 again. Awesome!
Back to the doctor we went, where we discovered he had a raging case of strep. His pediatrician said it was one of the worst he has seen he has seen in a long time, probably because his immune system was in poor shape after his bout with the flu.
I am back to sanitizing the house, even though I just went through this ritual over the weekend. I just don't want ANY MORE SICKNESS. Does everyone hear me?! I AM DONE WITH THESE GERMS. Amen, The end.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Ouch!
Monday was not a fun day around these parts.
At about 10:00 that morning, while I was teaching Reading, Charlie's preschool teacher walked into my room with my little guy. Charlie had a big gash on his forehead, which was bleeding profusely. His class had been playing on the playground, where Charlie somehow either walked into or fell into the bottom side of a metal stair tread. (No one actually saw it happen, and all Charlie will say is that he hit his head on the stairs).
I could tell right away he needed stitches (round 2 of stitches for Charlie-he is SUCH a boy!) so we zipped off to the pediatrician's office. While we were sitting in the waiting room, Charlie started to get very drowsy, and his pupils became dilated. As we were walking into the exam room, the nurse noticed that he was very wobbly, and walking like a drunk man. Dr. B looked him over, declared he needed three stitches, and that Charlie also had a mild concussion.
It was a tough session in the pediatrician's office for both Charlie and I, which included more than a few tears from both of us.
By dinner time that night, he was feeling a little more himself, and was loving showing off his cool flag band aid to Daddy.
Not to be outdone by his big brother, Sammy decided to get his own head injury tonight while we were playing outside. He had climbed up onto a lawn chair we had sitting on our front porch, and somehow made the chair tip backwards. It was one of those awful moments that move in slow motion. I saw it happen from across the lawn, but as fast as I ran, it happened before I got to him. Sam fell backwards from the front porch all the way onto the driveway, hitting the back of his head on the concrete. He has a huge purple goose egg on the back of his poor little noggin. After our brush with concussions on Monday, he is now under a lot of Mommy surveillance. I am now wanting to add a railing to the porch, and am ready to require my children to wear bubble wrap, safety goggles, and helmets at all times.
At about 10:00 that morning, while I was teaching Reading, Charlie's preschool teacher walked into my room with my little guy. Charlie had a big gash on his forehead, which was bleeding profusely. His class had been playing on the playground, where Charlie somehow either walked into or fell into the bottom side of a metal stair tread. (No one actually saw it happen, and all Charlie will say is that he hit his head on the stairs).
I could tell right away he needed stitches (round 2 of stitches for Charlie-he is SUCH a boy!) so we zipped off to the pediatrician's office. While we were sitting in the waiting room, Charlie started to get very drowsy, and his pupils became dilated. As we were walking into the exam room, the nurse noticed that he was very wobbly, and walking like a drunk man. Dr. B looked him over, declared he needed three stitches, and that Charlie also had a mild concussion.
It was a tough session in the pediatrician's office for both Charlie and I, which included more than a few tears from both of us.
By dinner time that night, he was feeling a little more himself, and was loving showing off his cool flag band aid to Daddy.
Not to be outdone by his big brother, Sammy decided to get his own head injury tonight while we were playing outside. He had climbed up onto a lawn chair we had sitting on our front porch, and somehow made the chair tip backwards. It was one of those awful moments that move in slow motion. I saw it happen from across the lawn, but as fast as I ran, it happened before I got to him. Sam fell backwards from the front porch all the way onto the driveway, hitting the back of his head on the concrete. He has a huge purple goose egg on the back of his poor little noggin. After our brush with concussions on Monday, he is now under a lot of Mommy surveillance. I am now wanting to add a railing to the porch, and am ready to require my children to wear bubble wrap, safety goggles, and helmets at all times.
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