Dells Vacation!

We are home! Last week at this time I was running around the house trying to get everything ready to go....tonight we are home and the stuff that was once so neatly "ready to go" has been dumped in my kitchen and dining room. The fridge is empty, the grass is long the garden is overgrown and I can't figure out why I'm not sleeping right now!!!

All in all, we had a GREAT time!!!! Last summer we just took a mini-cation to Chicago for a few days since Little Dude was still very wee. My Sweetie has not been away from work for a week long vacation since we went to Disney in Feb. of 2006. This was very much deserved for him and it was some much needed family fun time for all of us. I did learn one thing....having a 15-month on vacation is NOT easy!!!! But we survived beautifully, and I figure if Little Dude wasn't acting 15 months, what fun would THAT have been???

Here are a few highlights....I'll try to keep it short.

Last Saturday while I was at a baby shower in Milwaukee for my sister-in-law, My Sweetie and My Dad took the kids on a little outing.

They had wanted to do a Stadium Tour, but missed it by 20 minutes.

We spent the night in Milwaukee. My Sweetie thought the room smelled like blood and wanted to know who had been stabbed in our room. Although not the fanciest of places, and yes it had a smell, I think he was exatrating a wee bit. We met my brother and sister-in-law for breakfast then we headed to the zoo in Milwaukee. I was VERY excited that my membership to our zoo paid for our admission AND parking!!!




After all our fun at the zoo we headed up to the Dells. Our room was lovely...it was away from the main part of the resort but a nice, easy walk to everything. Each boy had their own bed and we had a king sized bed in a room WITH DOORS!!!! We also had a little kitchenette which made having drinks easy. The view from our room was just as lovely as the the room itself and every morning we would go outside and visit with the little ducks that came looking for breakfast.



Our resort had a waterpark which we visited everyday but Tuesday and today. The Boy was off and running trying out all the slides. BuhBuh was such a brave little monkey, having no problem going down slides I thought he was just too little for. Little Dude got more and more comfortable with the water as the week went on.


We spent some time checking out the shops in downtown Dells which the boys were all bored with. But we did get some nice pictures along the river walk.

We spent a day at Noah's Ark. I was so glad we went!!! I remember how much fun I had there when I was a kid and am so glad we were able to take our kids. We all had fun and Little Dude was so well behaved. We stayed until closing and all were asleep early that night.




One day we rode this adorable train on a beautiful, scenic short ride. The people there were all volunteers and truly loved what they did. They were so friendly and nice and it made for a nice outing.



After our train ride we went to play at a family fun area.





Our resort had a Chop House restaurant and we were very excited about a yummy dinner out. The food was GREAT, Little Dude was unhappy the entire time and My Sweetie and I took turns out in the hall with him. We took dessert to go.




You can't go to the Dells without playing mini-golf!!! Half way through our game there was lightening so we had to quite. They gave us enough rain tickets for almost 2 more games!!! Of course we took advantage of that. We were able to play one of the easier courses and the hardest course. The boys were so funny. They'd be so excited about how well they played on their last hole and end up in tears at how poorly they played the next.




We took a picture walk through grounds of the resort just before leaving. There were so many pretty things to look at.




We spent our last day playing our last round of golf, strolling through Downtown Dells and having a nice lunch at a German restaurant. We left the Dells knowing that we had to return to the real world. We took a very scenic drive through Wisconsin on our way home. We were looking for a town that has yummy wine and beer. We found it but it took us 2 hours longer than it should have to get home, but we made it!

We played hard, ate well and had a blast!!! What a blessing it is to have good, quality family time together.

Coffee, Side Kicks and Baby Noses!

BuhBuh made me coffee last week. Daddy was going to be out of town the next day and I said to him, "Who will make me coffee tomorrow?" To which L replies, "I will!" I told him he'd better pay close attention to Daddy then so he could learn how. So off he went to watch.

The next morning he got up out of bed (since The Boy at camp and Daddy was out of town he slept on Daddy's side of the bed) and I heard him in the kitchen getting the coffee ready!!! I laid in bed a bit then decided to go "supervise". The ONLY two things I did was to plug in the coffee grinder and pour the hot coffee into my cup. L had already gotten out the cup and put my creamer in it as well. I tell ya, it was too sweet (him not the coffee, that was perfect!) He can be very ornery and stubborn at times but he does have a sweet heart.

I was so excited to go pick The Boy up from camp!! My dad and I made the drive down. Dad asked why The Boy had to go away to the poor camp. HA! It's not poor, just rustic! When we got there the kids were finishing up their praise and worship time. I always LOVE being able to watch kids singing, loving and praising God. After they were done the group that The Boy had been with did a demonstration of what they had learned that week. Then one by one each of the kids got up and had a chance to break a board. The Boy was one of the only ones who not only was able to break the board but did it on his first try!! It was neat to watch and see his confidence from such an awesome accomplishment!

Little Dude has a new trick. He knows where his nose is!!! He says "nose", smiles and sticks his finger UP his nose. It's so funny!!! And when you tell him, "Don't stick your finger up your nose" he simply laughs and does it all again. It's really cute!

MOMMY.....I want MOOOOORRRREE!!!!!!

So, I thought I'd be a cool/hype/good mom and teach S sign language. I remember the frustration when L was at this age and clearly wanted something but could not communicate. I've been doing signs with S on and off for several months and he had mastered, I would say in a proud mom kind of way, two signs. He does the sign for "milk" which has actually become his universal sign for "drink" It works, I get it...he's not going to flunk sign-language school for substituting "milk" for "drink" He usally just drinks milk now as well. He also knows how to sign "more" Here's my downfall. He signs "more" ALL THE TIME now!!!! So much in fact that I often don't know WHAT he wants "more" of!! HA!! It's really very cute, but then at times I find myself back to that frustrating stage of not knowing what he wants. With that said, my adorable, genus baby can get he needs and wants across with his cute little hands....I think I better study up on more signs and start teaching him some.....MORE!!! :)

Off to pick up M from camp today! HURRAH!!!

Three's NOT a crowd-Three's too QUIET!

Don't they say that "Three's a crowd"? I think three is TOO QUIET!!!!!! M is away at camp this week and my hubby left today for a team meeting out of town and won't be back until tomorrow night. So it was just mom and the two little guys since 10 this morning. It was kind of quiet and lonely to tell ya the truth!!! I got a little Mommy Work accomplished....but it's never enough really, you know. We went to the Dollar Store here because I was almost out of diapers and I just didn't feel like driving ALL THE WAY into town after being there both Monday and Tuesday this week already. I knew my Target bill on Monday was too low! We also stocked L back up on library books and he had a Tball game. I made a quick stop by Church tonight also since we missed. S fell asleep before we even left the ball park...he was sleepy!!! Let's hope he sleeps most of the night now since it was so early when he went to sleep. L and I came home and were able to have some nice quality time together....no daddy, no big brother, no baby brother. Just the two of us. We played a heated game of Clue Jr. and shared some Salt and Vinegar chips then snuggled up and read for 30 minutes-which to BuhBuh equaled getting to cross off two boxes from his summer reading program chart. BuhBuh is in My Sweetie's spot sound asleep and Little Dude is in his bed (for now). When My Sweetie is gone I have to be so sleepy that I pass out...otherwise I lie there and over-analyze every noise. What a wimp!!!

So for this past month we have been fasting from TV and video games. Mommy was suppose to give up the computer but I clearly have FAILED that. When I"m on the computer doing Church work or checking on our bank account, it is just too easy to beep-bop around doing the time wasting things. UGH! I have had days where the computer has not been on but they have been few and far between. If I thought I could do my other work some other way then I would not be tempted!!! The boys have done AMAZINGLY well just have they have in years past during our TV fast. L has however had time with both Gma's this month and has had PLENTY of TV. M is the one who has had ZERO of anything. Part of our reason for doing this is because there is too much to do in June to be glued to a TV or Game Boy. It's forcing the boys to use their imagination, it's getting my hubby and I off our butts and accomplishing things that need to be done and when we need to unwind, we read! I would truly be all for a couple of desginated days of the week to be NO SCREEN days. The funniest was that I had play group here with a total of 3 moms and 10 kids the first week of June. Everyone knew we had unplugged for the month. When the kids got here I looked in my living room and there they all were, sitting on the couch all lined up....they had NO CLUE what on earth to do!! They did figure it out....they played a few games of hide and seek and got out a board game that hadn't been played in awhile. And by golly, wouldn't you know it! They all survived!

Well, it's late. I think tomorrow we'll entertain ourselves at the zoo. Friday I drive down to pick up The Boy from camp. I always start missing him about now and really start to look forward to bringing him home. What will I do when they are away at college for entire semesters and then eventually move out??? Baby steps....we'll work on camp first then rest I suppose.

Hats off to the Grad!!!

My babiest of brothers (I have three) will be graduating from high school this weekend. There are two brothers between he and I. I was 12 (almost 13) years old when he was born. I vividly remember the day he was born. I vividly remember peaking in on him through the glass of the nursery. I remember handing out bubble gum "It's a boy" cigars at a birthday party I went to just after he was born. I remember that he was the "keeper meeter" I judged guys I brought home by. If guys I brought home paid attention to him they were golden! There were only a couple of dance dates that didn't seem too interested. But all the boys that I actually had "crushes" on or who I was actually dating did great! :) I remember how MAD he was at me when he learned that I would be getting married and moving out of the house. I remember how cute he was at my wedding all dressed in his tux. I really didn't think he would walk down the aisle as my ring bearer because he was NOT happy with me.....I vividly remember him standing between our two flower girls at the beginning of the runner waiting to walk down the aisle and I blew him a kiss....he made a face and stuck his tongue out at me. I remember him being excited to learn that he was going to be an uncle and that when he came to visit me in the hospital he brought me a giant Mickey Mouse doll for the baby. He and my oldest son have grown up like brothers. Fighting at times, getting along well at others. I have enjoyed watching my brother grow into a wonderful young man.

During high school he played football for a year. Then he realized that he couldn't do both football and marching band. He chose band and has excelled. He was the president of the French club this past year. Has been on the Academic Team for 2 years. Was a Natural Student Helper which entailed him showing incoming underclassmen around the building. He was a member of the Key Club and went and hid Easter Eggs for little kids this past spring. He played in the pit this past spring for the high school musical.

He was accepted early on his senior year to a state university. I thought that was very punctual of him!!! He later learned that he missed National Honor Society by a very small fraction of a point; the difference between a B+ and an A- really. Which meant he would not be receiving the Presidential Scholarship. BUT, later he found out that because he was in the 10% of his graduating class he could go to our local Jr. College for 2 years FREE!!! He now had to decide which to do....continue with his plans to the state university or stay home two years. I have to be honest, I was cheering for him to go away. I never had that experience and didn't want him to miss out. But, he made the very mature, responsible decision to stay home and go for free and work. Just yesterday he found out that he received a $1500 scholarship .....but won't be able to accept it because it's only for those going to a 4-year school. "Oh well," he said, "It's just nice to know that I got it."

My brother from California will be flying in. My brother and pregnant sister-in-law from Wisconsin are driving down. We are only all 4 together about twice a year and I ALWAYS look forward to seeing everyone and having us all together. We are laid back dorks who truly enjoy one another's company.

So, Congrats little brother!!!!!! I've enjoyed watching grow up. I love you!!!!! You've made us all proud!!!

WHAT day is it???

WOWZIE!!!! For not having any "activities" during the day to shuttle kiddos to and from....it's ALREADY Thursday!!!! Where has the week gone?? Where will our break go once there are things to do during the day???? I need to remind myself that Monday WAS a holiday. So, I was off to a fast week to begin with.

I've been working on getting the kids involved with chores this week. M has been GREAT! Very helpful, very compliant. He's even been great watching S so that I can do what I need to do. L on the other hand has been whining and complaining up a storm. THIS from the one who will vacuum, clean the bathroom floor and dust....on HIS terms....not Mom's apparently. I did tell myself to be patient because I can't just assign a chore for the first time and expect them to know how to do it. I had to teach them. With the difficulties that BuhBuh gave me and the slower pace of the cleaning routine we did manage to get the house mostly "blessed" (bathroom scrubbed top to bottom, dust, laundry sorted and started, floors vacuumed and cleaned) In fact even yesterday I felt pretty ahead of the game. Got our bedroom a little more tidied, finally put winter coats and hats and gloves away now that soccer is over. For whatever reason....I feel like now that it is Thursday I have 20 trillzion things to accomplish before 5 p.m. tomorrow night!!! In fact 10 trillzion of those things should probably be done within the next hour. So what do I do instead???

BLOG!!! LOL!!!!

And what a boring post it is at that!!!!!

I have a few post ideas stirring around in my head....but no time now. I have 10 trillzion things to do....in an hour!!!! :)

Winding Down

It's been about forever since I've written ANYTHING! I had been posting things through my MSN account and then just yesterday copied it all over here. I go in such silly on again off again writing phases. Mostly, it's just because I have so many other things I should be doing that I don't allow myself the simple little ME pleasures that I enjoy like reading and writing.

The boys are officially done with school as of last week. HURRAH! I am one of those crazy moms who enjoys having the kids home in the summer. These next three months will go FAST....I just know I'll be putting The Boy on the bus for middle school and BuhBuh on the bus for kindergarten before I can blink.

My Sweetie had Friday off as part of this long holiday weekend also. Friday night it was Date Night/Kid Swap and it was our turn this month for a date. How sad that after dinner we really didn't know what else to do. We tried a couple of things but it never worked out. It was still nice to just have some quiet time together. Saturday we stayed home most of the day with the exception of a quick trip up to Church for a graduation party. During Little Dude's nap I laid out on the deck and finished my book. I love my newly spruced up deck! Then we made homemade pizza and watched a movie with the kids. Sunday was the normal hurry-up-get-to-Church routine. Someday I'll figure out a smoother, less frazzled way to get us all there by 9. I"m glad we live close by!!! :) We came back home and mom and dad came for a visit. Then later in the day our friends came over. It was a nice day.

Today, we also have zero plans!!!! It's nice to just be every now and then.

This coming week we don't have any sort of planned activities besides one Tball Game and Church Wednesday night. I'm hoping to enlist the help of the big boys to get this house a little more ready for a busy summer. I told them I wouldn't make them do any school this coming week. After they help me with chores they have permission to watch as much TV and play as many video games as they'd like. June 1st we are unplugging for a month. This is something we've done before and it's gone over well. We did not do it last year for whatever reason but did do it as a family two summers ago. The kids did GREAT and I expect them to do GREAT again this year too.

Next weekend will be jam packed with my brothers coming home for my brother's graduation. I can't believe he's done with high school. I clearly remember the day he was born.....I remember the cute 4 year old he was when I was in high school and the cute ring bearer he was in my wedding. He's a pretty cool kid and I expect nothing but good things to come for him. I'm looking home to seeing everyone else. It's one of my most favorite times....when we are ALL together!!! We always have so much fun!

February 29

Control

Hmmmmmm.........I've read TWO devotionals today and they BOTH were about control. Is God trying to tell me something here??? What am I trying to control right now, besides EVERYTHING??? The kids, my husbands faith, my marriage, the home, my day to day life.....something isn't working obviously. Maybe that is why I feel stressed and flustered and aggervated right now. Something needs to be given to God. Maybe all of it??? I need to learn to walk by faith A LOT better. I know this. It's my biggest downfall because I am one who feels the need to be IN CONTROL always and of everything. I'm certain God is trying to tell me something...I don't think it is a "chance" thing that BOTH of the devotions I read, and I actually happened to read both today, are about the same thing.

February 01

Seeing God

When I choose thankfulness over grumbling I will see You Lord.

When I look up I see Chad's handiwork in tearing down and putting back up the ceiling in our dining room with new lighting. I thank God for his hands that work hard and his mind that is full of ideas and concepts and for his body that is strong.

When I look left I see the piles of white snow sitting outside on our deck. It's fluffy and white, undisturbed by footprints or dirt. I thank God for placing me in the midwest where I get to see all kinds of different weather. Sunny and warm, cool and crisp, cold and snowy. I love the colors and the outdoor adventures that each new season brings.

When I look right I see the closed baby gate and the refrigerator in the kitchen. I thank God for my healthy, curious 9 month old baby boy who we placed the gate for to keep him safe and for the "flair" that colors the outside of my refrigerator. Both remind me that this is a home full of children; full of energy; full of love; full of fun.

When I look down I see Samuel trying to stand (and now has fallen and is crying). I thank God for the gift of having another baby boy in our lives. Although he is just 9 months old it's like I've known and loved him just as long as the other two boys have been in our lives. I can't imagine my life without him (or Matthew and Lucas!) I am so blessed.

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." Matthew 5:8 (NIV)

February 14

A Quote to Remember

Mike Rayson, an Austrailain missonary here in the United States who has blessed our parish many times with his gifts of song and preaching wrote a letter to the Governor of Tennessee, where he currently lives, in response to comment the Governor made about the recent tornadoes that have killed many in that state. Here is a quote from Mike's blog/letter that really made sense to me.

"...at the bottom of rock bottom – is rock. And this rock is God – a firm foundation on which to rebuild. God has already journeyed to and through the deepness of our pain."

His way with words is truly a gift and this quote is one we all need to remember.

January 21

It's a God Thing!!

God is surely speaking to me and using me and reassuring me this week. First of all here is the prayer that was at the end of the devotional that I received in my email box today....

Dear Father in Heaven, I know it is no accident that children are all around me. I ask your special blessings on my neighbors, the children of my dear friends, my nieces and nephews and my own precious children. You have equipped me with everything I need to share the gospel with them. Please give me wisdom and discernment as I interact with the children in my life. I want to introduce them to You. I anticipate the day of celebration when one of these children would come to You because of something I said that opened their eyes and heart. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Secondly, last night I was talking to Jonni about the benefit and she asked me if we wanted the one-month family membership to the Y. She had asked the Stuarts and they didn't think they could do that kind of a gift any justice with the crazy life they have right now. I really didn't think we could either....it's kind of hard to walk on the treadmill holding a 9 month old. HA!! SO, I thought of Jenny and Shane. I asked Jenny if she could use it. She said that when Shane was in rehab they went to the Y several times a week and as part of his recovery one of his goals is to take better care of himself and get in shape. What perfect timing for this gift certificate for them!! He's been home a couple weeks now and this will be a good positive outlet and help him work towards his goal and give them something to do together as a family to help with the healing process as well. YEP! It's deffinately a God Thing!!

January 08

FIRST TOOTH!!!!

I was sitting in Bible Study today trying to both entertain my squirmy little peanut and listen and there the discovery was made....A TOOTH!!!!!!! SAMUEL CUT HIS FIRST TOOTH!!! I'm so very exciting!!! He is almost nine months you know!!!! AND, I really didn't want all the fussiness and fever on Christmas Eve to be for NOTHING!!! So HURRAH!!!! It's so cute!!! I know, you can't see it yet....but you can feel it....it's there!!!! And to think that will most likely be the first tooth that he loses also.

It was somewhat of a productive day....bible study, some laundry (SHOOT!!! I still have a load in the washer!) I watched Nikki's boys and took care of some benefit stuff. The letters went out yesterday and I'm already getting responses. YAY! However, I'm ready for bed....I'm leaving the kitchen to be a mess and dealt with later. Hopefully, Samuel will be in his "long stretch" of sleep now so I can get some consecutive hours....that's all I ask....is it really so much???

Here's a poem that I got in my devotional today....I love it!!!! It just gives perspective and hope to those days and trials that leave us feeling helpless, sad and lonely.

It's sometimes very difficult
for us to understand
the wisdom and the love behind
the things that God has planned.

But we wouldn't have the rainbow
If we didn't have the rain;
We wouldn't know the pleasure
If we never tasted pain.

We wouldn't love the sunrise
If we hadn't felt the night;
And we wouldn't know our weakness
If we hadn't sensed God's might.

We couldn't have the springtime
or the yellow daffodil
if we hadn't experienced
the winter's frosty chill.

And though the brilliant sunshine
is something God has made.
He knew too much could parch our souls
so He created shade.

So God's given us a balance:
Enough joys to keep us glad,
Enough tears to keep us humble,
Enough good to balance bad.

And if you'll trust in Him you'll see
Though yesterday brought sorrow,
The clouds will part and dawn will bring
A happier tomorrow.

January 05-Accomplished

January 05

Accomplished!

I feel so very accomplished these past few days!! I've washed ALL of the blankets and everyone has clean sheets on their beds. I washed and folded 2 loads of towels and I have a load of baby clothes in the drier right now. Yesterday I did a lot of work for Nellie Jo's benefit; taking phone calls, sending emails, getting the flier ready. It took a week but I was able to get through the PILES of reciets and from December and gets bills paid and the book ballanced. (I really shouldn't leave this to be a once a month job. Especially the month of CHRISTMAS!!) Today I changed Lucas's closet. This all of course is in addition to the "normal" things that I "should" do but don't always do but DID (!!!)over the past 2 days....feeding children, doing dishes, bathing them, vaccuming...blah, blah, blah. The thing I'm most proud of is that in addition to making sure that all the kids had showers tonight (it's Saturday....take a shower whether you need it or not!!) BUT, I've got all of their clothes ready to go for morning!!! It would be even more exciting if I knew what I was going to wear and where all the pieces the outfit was, but maybe I'll work for that NEXT Saturday night!

I think it is important to keep a "what I accomplished" list rather than a "to do" list. As a mom it is so hard to ever feel like anything has actually been done. You do the dishes and the kids ask for a snack....you do the laundry and they come inside with grass stains....you give them baths and they get spill something on themselves; there is always something to be done.

I have informed Chad that I plan on doing nothing tomorrow....well, I suppose I'll still take care of the kids. BUT, I'd like to do some reading for my bible study, read my bible reading for the day (I found an site that guides your reading in a year...I'm such an internet junkie!!) maybe take a bubble bath (in which case I'll have to scrub the tub first) and maybe make a pot of soup. And if I can work a nap in there somewhere, believe me I WILL!! I think the real challenge will be getting Chad to have a day of rest and relaxation too....he's away from the house during the week and on weekends he wants to do projects around the house. Understandable. BUT, we are ALL entitled to a day of rest. (And I think this should include my washer and drier!)He's done some of that today, but also worked a little on the attic.

Well, off to take a shower and plan out tomorrow mornings Sunday School Lesson....and think about the Children's Sermon I'm suppose to do.....UGH! it's 10 pm!!

December 31-Happy New Year

December 31

Happy New Year

2007 is coming to a quick end. WOW! What a difference a year can make in the lives of your children. Our family grew by one this year with the birth of our 3rd son, Samuel David. It has been such a blessing to have the gift of a baby in the house again. Matthew is in his last year of elementary school. He seems to be finding some good friends this year and finding his place amongst his peers; an answered prayer being that this is something I have been worried about in the past. He began playing the drums this year, his primary sport focus in soccer and his grades are average although I KNOW he could do better. Lucas is in his second and last year of PreK. What a funny kid! Sometimes when I laugh at the funny things he has said I wonder if I should actually be worried. He doesn't display quite the compassion that Matthew does, but is very helpful around the house and has a huge imagination. He was able to play soccer for the first time this year and was estatic that daddy was his coach. Chad and I have been riding the pregnancy/newborn roller coaster. He does his thing and I do mine and then we are both so tired (well, me mostly) to have any husband and wife time together other than stare blankly at the TV screen. I miss my husband and although I am loving having a baby around again I don't like the consequence of the effect it seems to have on my marriage.

So, with the New Year upon us of course I had to come up with my GOALS for the New Year. They may seem long, maybe a bit too thought out and organized, but I like things to be focused and specific. So here it is...

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” Proverbs 16:9

2008 Theme:

To establish and maintain a balance between the God who created me, the husband who swept me off my feet and the children who have melted my heart.

Priority Statement:

To be the wife my husband deserves and the mother my children need.

I will continue to strengthen my relationship with God

1. Spend as much, if not more, time WITH God in addition to DOING FOR God
2. Honor the Sabbath as a family
3. We will tithe both salary and commission in 2008
4. Continue with Bible Studies
5. Find some solitude once a day for self study and journaling
6. Make Saturday Morning accountability group a priority

I will make family, friends and taking care of myself a priority

Husband

1. Once a month dates with Chad

2. Overnight get away with Chad

3. Welcome him home every night in the driveway with a hug and kiss

4. Do something to surprise/bless him every week

Children

1. Continue to reinforce the importance of God and faith (bible reading, scripture memorization, WR4K, Sunday School, camp, mission projects)

2. Teach more responsibility. Get kids more involved with household chores.

3. Demand respect be given to everyone

4. Enforce “no screen” days and hours in the home

5. Don’t over schedule the kids. No more than one activity at a time (in addition to church and school) during the school year. No more than two activities at a time (in addition to church) in the summer

6. Come up with some team building projects for Matthew and Lucas to do together

Family/Friends

1. Send cards for birthday’s, anniversaries, thank you’s and thinking of you’s

2. Accomplish Samuel’s 1^st year scrapbook

3. Accomplish Matthew’s K-3^rd scrapbook pages

4. Have once a month weekend meal with different friends/family

5. Have lunch/dinner with Kathy once a month

6. Re-establish more regular playgroup meetings

7. Have a girls only overnight somewhere

Self

1. Make time for a daily time of solitude (see above)

2. Observe 31^st Day as a day to re-evaluate family plan and have a ME day

I will set up an effective plan to manage my home and focus my mission

Home

1. Reorganize and set up desk as an effective place to manage home and mission projects

2. Schedule NOTHING during the day on Mondays. (exception: special functions for the kids at school)

3. Choose one other day of the week (according to schedule) to be an “At Home” work day and one day as an “Errand day” as needed.

4. Break home into weekly zones and accomplish 1-2 projects in that zone each week. (Week One: Kids Rooms; Week Two: Kitchen; Week Three: Bedroom; Week Four: Living/Dining/Bathroom; Week Five: Area of most need)

5. Menu plan and make shopping lists accordingly and keep a running list of other home items needed to cut down on extra trips to store and frivolous item.

6. Use salary pay checks for bills. Commission pay checks are for savings and special projects only…not to supplement the month due to overspending.

7. Adopt a new “Green” habit every month

Mission

To teach children/youth about God’s love for them and the awesome gift He gave us in His son Jesus Christ.

To live my life as an example and response to God’s grace

To reach out to those in greater need than myself

1. To prioritize my commitments to the Church that reflect my mission for 2008 while honoring my commitments to my family I can plan and plan and hope and hope for anything my little heart desires I suppose. But, like the Proverb stated above, it's the Lord who will determine my steps. So, as long as I stay flexible and keep my ears and eyes open to what GOD wants, I'm sure that this New Year will be full of blessings. I'm looking foward to watching my kids grow, learn and enjoy life from their individual perspectives this next year.

Our little "Buh-Buh"

Poor kid! Since he was born we've called L Buh-Buh. Is that a terrible nickname or what?

L is 4 now...just had a birthday. I have such a different relationship with him than I do his older brother because I've been home with him since day one. He's been my baby, my little buddy and it's been great. (I could go into the guilt I feel for not being there for M as much but that's a different post!) I am very guilty of babying him and letting him get away with things I wouldn't have ever let his brother get away with.

He's in PreK this year and LEAVES ME EVERYDAY for FOUR HOURS!!!!!!! Can you believe it??? It's really been a good thing for him (and me). I can tell that he's learning and I can tell that he's enjoying it.

L is ALL BOY! He LOVES anything that has wheels and a motor. Has for years now. I could probably take away all of his toys and just leave a big box of cars and trucks and he'd be content for life.

He is also a very onrey little boy. He will purposely torment his brother just to get a reaction. He says things that make you wonder where it came from. Today for example I asked if he wanted a baby brother or a baby sister. He told me he wanted a brother. I asked him what he would do if the baby was a girl. His response, "I'm going to leave the house." I'm sooooo bad because sometimes even though he's being naughty I can't help but laugh! And HE KNOWS IT! I fear that he's going to be one of those sneaky kids.

He's a cool kid for all of his special reasons that are completely different than all of the special reasons his brother is a cool kid. He makes us smile and laugh everyday and has been such a joy to our lives.

I KNOW that God has big plans for this little guy of ours. After a year of trying to have a baby with no luck, my husband and I found ourselves separated for reasons having nothing to do with trying to have a baby. After 6 months we were back together and I decided that I was going to leave my job to be a stay-at-home mom and recommit myself to my husband and family. Within weeks of us being back together we conceived L. Such an awesome gift from God. I will cherish it, treasure it and nurture it the best that I can.

My First Born Boy

So my son M brings home in his folder in the SAME day a science test with an "F" and a permission slip to do a gifted screening test on him. Ironic?

We had a little discussion that maybe he needs to bring his book home to study before a test. His reply, "But they didn't tell us to." His teacher was nice enough to let him correct his test for some extra credit points. However, he still didn't bring his book home!

I figured we'd go ahead with the gifted screening. He's been fortunate enough these past several years to be involved in the gifted pull-out program. I think he is a very smart little boy; I think he's a lot like his dad. Very intelligent but lacks to see the big picture and importance of trying and working your hardest for the grades you deserve. The test I think will show us just what his capabilities are and give me some better ground for pushing him harder or letting up a little.

He was definitely a super-star soccer player last night. In fact this whole season he's been quite impressive. He's really blossomed into an aggressive, skilled player. Last night when he was playing forward he was able to dribble the ball down the field, maneuver the ball around one defender, maneuver the ball around the second defender and then kick the ball into the corner of the goal to score. It was just awesome! Both my hubby and I (who were on opposite sides of the field) said we got a little choked up about it.

I don't know if it the age, but he has developed this attitude this year. Just a real smart mouth, disrespectful attitude towards us and I even see him treat other adults that way. I don't want to be crabbing to him about his behavior all of the time, but it really needs to stop. I know with the pre-teen/teen years approaching rapidly there will be attitudes and struggles. But I really want us to remain civil and not become a mother-son who yell at each other.

I do think I expect more out of him because he is the oldest. I feel guilty about it a lot but still press on. I need to remember that he's only 9 (almost 10) and not 18. I can be such a control freak when it comes to my kids. I need to trust in God a whole lot more, pray more for my kids rather than getting frustrated with them when all they are doing is acting their age.

He really is a good boy. He does well in school, doesn't get into trouble while there, has a huge loving heart and has such and can just be an all around fun kid. I can hardly believe that it was almost 10 years that I held his tiny 6 lb 2 oz body close to my and snuggled his sweet bald head. I worry about my parenting with him because I'm young and I just don't want to "mess up". I just want to love him and equip him with everything he needs to know for life. Isn't that what we all want for our children?

Amazed

Just about everyone is in the "know" of our happy news. Our son turned 4 last Saturday so we put both boys in T-Shirts that said "I have a secret" on the front. The back said, "I'm going to be a Big Brother" Our M's shirt also said the word, "Again". Our siblings were all excited for us.

We've also told most of our closest friends. They too are very excited for us.

I've just been filled with so many "warm fuzzies" this past week as we've shared our news because it's been such a different reaction from our other two pregnancies. Not that people weren't happy for us but there were other circumstances in our lives during both of those times that I'm sure caused some concerns on whether or not it was the "right" time for us to be having a baby. But I know that the other pregnancies were at the "right" time because all things are on God's time...not ours.

I've just had so many warm hugs and sweet loving words it's just been great!

We had a 10 week ultra sound on Thursday. I am still in amazement over the miracle of life growing inside of me. The changes that there has been in 4 short weeks, the fact that Peanut is just 3.48 cm. long and I can see FINGERS and to be able to see the baby moving its arms and legs and opening its mouth....it's all just so cool! I have my first appointment with my mid-wife on Monday. We have been officially released from the specialist. YAY!!

Life has sure been keeping me on my toes the past couple of weeks. Commitments outside of the house, field trips and sports for the kids, homework, a new Bible study, (WITH HOMEWORK) L's bday party, and then there's the laundry and regular day to day mess that keeps piling up at home. Yesterday I was sure I was drowning. Thankfully, the woozies seem to have subsided but the sleepies are still there. They hit me hard around 5 o'clock after a day of mom/wife duties. Making for a very cranky wife for my poor husband and kids at times.

Fall is defiantly in the air. The cool crisp weather has been lovely. I want to go pick apples this weekend....between raindrops! In a few weeks we'll hop in the car for a drive up north a bit to see the beautiful trees. This is by far my most favorite time of year.

Hopefully, I can find some more time to write. I truly enjoy it but when there are so many other things that need to be done I have mommy guilt that I need to work, work, work rather than relax and take time for myself.

Blessings to you all....

I Remember...

5 years ago I was at home with my then 4-year old son. He was in the living room watching his cartoons and I was just going about my morning. The phone rang and it was my husband. It was a shock to hear his voice on the other end because we had been separated for several months and were in the process of a divorce.

"Are you watching television?" It was the most civil he had talked to me in months.

"No, why?" I asked.

He proceeded to tell me what had happened and I watched the news in shock.

"This is bad, really bad," I remember him saying.

After getting off the phone with him I called a couple of friends from work. I worked at a television station in the production department. I was a news geek....there was breaking news and I knew I had to get to work.

I quickly dressed and got my son ready for and dropped him off at day care and was at my station by 10:30 that morning. I usually worked a second shift position. But everyone was there in the control room. I took my seat next to the director and that's basically where I sat for the next 12 hours.

When we weren't on our network we were doing local cut ins. It was a fly-by-the seat of your pants day. This was what news was all about. The adrenaline rush carried me through the day.

At one point I called my husband. I needed to hear his voice. When he returned my call he was short with me and I almost regretted that decision. He asked about when I was going to get on my own health insurance because he had some papers to sign at work. Our country was under attack and THIS is what he has to say to me?

Most people chose to sit and watch the events unfold. I didn't because I was part of making it unfold for people. I couldn't escape it. As I watched one of the network reporters get choked up towards the end of his story I realized how much worse so many people are right now than myself. Here I was in the middle of a divorce with my husband for selfish reasons and there were people out there wondering where their loved ones were.


I remember the images from that horrific day. But mostly I remember how I felt. Scared; confused; like my life was spinning out of control. I had nighmares for a long time after. I called them "end of the world" nightmares. I haven't had any in a long while which is good I suppose.

I worked at least 12 hours that day, not getting home until late. That night, I slept in my bed that my husband and I shared. Neither of us had moved out during the separation and I had been sleeping in my son's room on a mattress on the floor. But I just needed to be near my husband that night; needed to feel him somewhat close; needed to feel safe. I was back in at work by 6 a.m. the next day to direct the morning news and put in another 12 hours at least.

On Sept. 13th my husband and I had our first counseling session. Although there were many more rough spots in the months ahead I eventually called off the divorce; just in time for Christmas. I don't know if I would have been so willing to work on things with him had it not been for September 11th; had my life not been put into perspective for me that day; had I not realized how short life is.

My heart continues to break and weep for those who were affected by this tragedy in a direct way.

If you have a 9/11 story that you would like to share...post it on your blog and go to Rocks in my Dryer and add your name to the Mr. Linky and read what others have written as well.

Blessings....

Random Ramblings

I haven't felt very "bloggy" lately. Just haven't had a whole lot to ramble about. So here are just a few random things to report on from the Laundry Trenches.

Kids are getting into the swing of things with school. M who is in 4th grade is yet to bring any homework home. He's been able to get it done in school, which is good. We have been working nightly on spelling words which can be a struggle in itself. It's 20 words...and they aren't terribly hard. He just doesn't like to have to WORK for his grades. Math and science are easy for him....spelling and English are a little more challenging and he gets frustrated when it takes a little extra work. Soccer has also started....practices right now and games start next Thursday. I can hardly imagine that he's going to be 10 in a couple of months. He's already sporting that pre-teen attitude and disrespect lately. Which I'm sure is just a phase but I'm really starting to feel grouchy for having to correct him ALL OF THE TIME!

L really seems to be enjoying preK. He gets off the bus each day at noon and I ask him if he had a good day. He says, "Yeah, I want to go back there again!" So cute! I'm already beginning to notice him using some of what he's learned at home. They've been talking about good and bad social skills, how to be awesome cleaners and their teacher taught them some sign language today! In church he's actually been PARTICIPATING in the singing!!! He NEVER did that before! The preK teachers were a little worried about him because when we were in for his screening last spring he showed some separation anxiety problems. But he's been doing great! He has his first field trip next week. It should be exciting!!!

The peanut must be doing well because I'm still battling the woozies and the sleepies. But it's all good!!! Tomorrow we have another u/s with the nurse at the RE's office then we jaunt over to my OB's office and visit with my midwife's nurse! I keep thinking that this will be our last Halloween as a family of 4....our last Thanksgiving, our last Christmas....by Mother's Day we'll take the annual mom and kids pictures....and there will be one more!!! Like I told my best friend today, I'm trying to NOT anticipate my due date too much. This has been something we've wanted for so long and now that we finally have it I want to ENJOY every second of it! Especially the icky ones! This very well could be our last pregnancy also. We won't do what we did this last time to get pregnant again. If it is God's will for us to have more kids, He will make it happen. If not, then that's is OK too.

My hubby has been GREAT and very supportive. I've really been slacking in my "job" lately. He does his job during the day, comes home and helps with dinner and dishes and kids. I've promised him that his lovely wife will return soon. I would like us to have maybe a couple of dates between now and the time baby gets here. Mostly because since I'm nursing baby will always be with me for the next year after it gets here.

I'm looking forward to next week. Lots of things to keep me busy! It will either kill me or do a world of good for me! I find when I have other things to focus on the woozies and sleepies aren't as bad. There will defiantly be plenty to focus on next week!

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