I have about 15 minutes before the girls arrive home. The past week has been a true whirlwind of activity. Between Kt's first band concert, Em's first sleepover party, our first official international summer trips leader's meeting, our last pre-marital counseling session with A&F.... oh, and me being asked to work yesterday when I walked into the girl's school to volunteer for the morning.... I'm whooped!
There are so many things I could say about the past week, but then there's too many. We had Bible study last night and are reading through the book In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day - I'm really liking this book. It's written by Mark Batterson (?) who pastors a church that meets in Union Station, DC. Last night we talked about facing our fears, which is really a great topic for me. I was actually thinking about this blog and how when my husband and his blogging friend, Jeremy, encouraged me in the beginning, I had my rote reaction: I could never do that! I mean, who really cares about what I write or think anyway!! And that may still be the case, but in actuality I don't blog for an audience. I blog for me. And through this, just as combating many other fears in life, the things I've learned about myself and about others and especially about God are invaluable.
I'm hoping for a slowdown in all the craziness, but I don't see that happening any time soon! Tomorrow I'm returning for the poor teacher I dissed when I decided to work in second grade all day (for money!;-)), then lunch with an old friend, then pull things together for Girls Grace Adventure, gymnastics... and the list goes on. I just keep telling myself to do life - it's either that or be bored, and for now, that's just not an option!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
Craziness
So, my marathon of commitments is nearly at an end. I'm surprised that I'm not as drained as I thought I'd be. I guess when we're doing things that focus on others and not ourselves it's much more fulfilling/energizing.... at least for me!
Today I took Kt to a Southern Living at Home party - really just to hang out with a friend. In the car she said, "I know what I want for my next birthday - Tony Hawk." I laughed, a person? She assured me I did not hear incorrectly. She *needs* to learn how to Ollie (?). I said, "You know, Kt, skateboarders generally have scrapes and bruises everywhere from learning/practicing all these different tricks. Her reply? "Mom, those people are serious, I'm just doing this for fun!" Yes, I did the "that makes no sense" rolling my eyes thing while she couldn't see me, but then I had to laugh, because I think I sometimes have that same mentality.
If I don't learn to say no with a little less guilt I'm going to implode at some point! I don't imagine it going down that way, because I'm just doing it all for fun! ;-)
Today I took Kt to a Southern Living at Home party - really just to hang out with a friend. In the car she said, "I know what I want for my next birthday - Tony Hawk." I laughed, a person? She assured me I did not hear incorrectly. She *needs* to learn how to Ollie (?). I said, "You know, Kt, skateboarders generally have scrapes and bruises everywhere from learning/practicing all these different tricks. Her reply? "Mom, those people are serious, I'm just doing this for fun!" Yes, I did the "that makes no sense" rolling my eyes thing while she couldn't see me, but then I had to laugh, because I think I sometimes have that same mentality.
If I don't learn to say no with a little less guilt I'm going to implode at some point! I don't imagine it going down that way, because I'm just doing it all for fun! ;-)
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Mommy Milestone
So, tonight was a mommy milestone, not to mention a huge one for Kt! It was her very first ever band concert!! I know my mom is probably grinning, thinking back to my first band concert, when I was a fourth grade flute player. Of course, my poor parents had to live through 17 years of band concerts, orchestra, etc. because my sister played the violin and my brother was a percussionist!
Really, I enjoyed tonight. I wasn't sure how it would go, but I was really impressed at how far all the kids have come in just a few short months. I'm so glad I convinced Kt to give it a try - she is very musical and seems to love it as much as I did!! And, of course, we ended the evening with the traditional ice cream shop visit. Unfortunately, grouchy and I (that would be Em) came home before the fun. Just a little late for that one.
I can't believe I'm a band parent!
Really, I enjoyed tonight. I wasn't sure how it would go, but I was really impressed at how far all the kids have come in just a few short months. I'm so glad I convinced Kt to give it a try - she is very musical and seems to love it as much as I did!! And, of course, we ended the evening with the traditional ice cream shop visit. Unfortunately, grouchy and I (that would be Em) came home before the fun. Just a little late for that one.
I can't believe I'm a band parent!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
I've Been Tagged
I think I did something similar to this, but not NEARLY as long! As usual, I won't be tagging anyone specifically. Here goes....
1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE ? Deanna Durbin and my grandmother, whose nickname was Kay.
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? When I was sick after being home with my girls, and I went to get tested for strep and the very rude receptionist basically told me to get lost because my insurance card was 1 week expired. The hospital, pediatrics and the lab techs we had seen in the past week never mentioned that to us..... I had to run home (crying the whole way because I had a fever, sore throat and a sick kid with me) to find the new cards. When I returned, she told me it was no good - she lied. I am still working on forgiving that woman!
3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Well, I am a calligrapher. I like my handwriting, but I'm also ultracritical of it.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Ham, but I have to switch to turkey because I have high cholesterol.
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Two girls.
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? I guess not, I don't know.
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Nope, I'm not the least bit sarcastic!! PLEASE!!!! (uh huh, and if you believe that, I have a piece of swampland waiting for you in New Orleans!)
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yup.
9.WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Yes, but it would have to be safe. (LOL)
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Lucky Charms.
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Nope.
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Not really.
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Mint Chocolate Chip.
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? I always look for a smile. If I don't get that, I'm pretty much looking the other way!
15. RED OR PINK? Pink (and green)!
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING YOU LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF? I'm way too judgemental and it comes across as being very negative. I just need to keep my mouth shut!
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? I miss my dad terribly.
18. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Jeans and my brown cozy crocs.
19. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? A heart shaped peppermint pattie.
20. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The fan on my laptop, which runs constantly. I believe this thing is eventually going to implode!
21. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Green, in a dark variety.
22. FAVORITE SMELLS? Anything fruity and tropical.
23. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My husband. Or did I just text him?
24. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Gymnastics, ice skating and diving.
25. HAIR COLOR? Strawberry blonde.
26. EYE COLOR? Light brown.
27. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? I'm supposed to wear glasses at night but never do. I have one eye that is nearsighted, one that is farsighted and when I'm not really tired I have 20/20 vision.
28. FAVORITE FOOD? Pizza and chocolate.
29. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy endings.
30. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? 27 Dresses.
31. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Brown sweater.
32. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer, or Florida in the winter.
33. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs - kisses are way too germy.
34. FAVORITE DESSERT? Brownie sundae.
35. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Calm My Anxious Heart
36. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? I don't have one.
37. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T.V. LAST NIGHT? Spongebob Squarepants and part of Zach and Josh.
38. FAVORITE SOUNDS? Laughter, my girls, babies.
39. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Rolling Stones.
40. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Hungary.
41. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I can unicycle. Or at least I used to be able to!
42. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Bridgeport, Connecticut.
OK, so that's it. I am only tagging those who actually bothered to read ALL about me - you know who you are! ;-)
1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE ? Deanna Durbin and my grandmother, whose nickname was Kay.
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? When I was sick after being home with my girls, and I went to get tested for strep and the very rude receptionist basically told me to get lost because my insurance card was 1 week expired. The hospital, pediatrics and the lab techs we had seen in the past week never mentioned that to us..... I had to run home (crying the whole way because I had a fever, sore throat and a sick kid with me) to find the new cards. When I returned, she told me it was no good - she lied. I am still working on forgiving that woman!
3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Well, I am a calligrapher. I like my handwriting, but I'm also ultracritical of it.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Ham, but I have to switch to turkey because I have high cholesterol.
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Two girls.
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? I guess not, I don't know.
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Nope, I'm not the least bit sarcastic!! PLEASE!!!! (uh huh, and if you believe that, I have a piece of swampland waiting for you in New Orleans!)
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yup.
9.WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Yes, but it would have to be safe. (LOL)
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Lucky Charms.
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Nope.
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Not really.
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Mint Chocolate Chip.
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? I always look for a smile. If I don't get that, I'm pretty much looking the other way!
15. RED OR PINK? Pink (and green)!
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING YOU LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF? I'm way too judgemental and it comes across as being very negative. I just need to keep my mouth shut!
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? I miss my dad terribly.
18. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Jeans and my brown cozy crocs.
19. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? A heart shaped peppermint pattie.
20. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The fan on my laptop, which runs constantly. I believe this thing is eventually going to implode!
21. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Green, in a dark variety.
22. FAVORITE SMELLS? Anything fruity and tropical.
23. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My husband. Or did I just text him?
24. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Gymnastics, ice skating and diving.
25. HAIR COLOR? Strawberry blonde.
26. EYE COLOR? Light brown.
27. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? I'm supposed to wear glasses at night but never do. I have one eye that is nearsighted, one that is farsighted and when I'm not really tired I have 20/20 vision.
28. FAVORITE FOOD? Pizza and chocolate.
29. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy endings.
30. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? 27 Dresses.
31. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Brown sweater.
32. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer, or Florida in the winter.
33. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs - kisses are way too germy.
34. FAVORITE DESSERT? Brownie sundae.
35. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Calm My Anxious Heart
36. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? I don't have one.
37. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T.V. LAST NIGHT? Spongebob Squarepants and part of Zach and Josh.
38. FAVORITE SOUNDS? Laughter, my girls, babies.
39. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Rolling Stones.
40. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Hungary.
41. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I can unicycle. Or at least I used to be able to!
42. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Bridgeport, Connecticut.
OK, so that's it. I am only tagging those who actually bothered to read ALL about me - you know who you are! ;-)
Catch-up
The aftermath of having my girls home for 12 days straight is that I'm running ragged trying to catch up with life!! Doctors appointments, trips, parties.... I'm totally whooped and it's not really settling down. It seems to only be getting busier!
Last weekend, we took a group of high school seniors up north for a weekend in NYC/Connecticut. It was really fun and I think they were able to see a part of NYC that most people never see unless they live there. It was interesting to listen to them share about the things that impacted them - visiting Times Square church, staying at the mission in the Bronx, working at Genexel and serving the homeless at Abounding Grace. Of course, staying in my mom's house was also an experience! All in all, I think they all had a super time.
Now we're back, and aside from the usual work/homework/gymnastics we have Kt's very first band concert tomorrow night (and so my journey as band parent begins!), subbing in the lunch room again (always an adventure!), making dinner for our neighbor whose husband was just diagnosed with the exact same lymphoma that inflicted my father - but he's younger and has 6 children and another on the way! and Em's slumber party (hopefully!!) on Friday night. Oh, then there's our summer leaders meeting on Saturday (here) for our 4-5 trips, marriage counseling on Sunday.... oh, and I'm taking a short break to attend a Southern Living at Home party. On Monday, after I volunteer in Em's class, I'm going to collapse. OK?
I did have to say no to something I was very interested in being part of. The timing was bad, the day they chose for meetings didn't work and the more I think about it, the more I think God planned it that way. I'm not sure it was the right thing for me to participate in, so I'm gladly passing on it. It was flattering to be asked, though!=)
Well, I'm off to hunt for a black below the knee skirt for Kt's first concert. She informed me yesterday that her black pants didn't fit.... thanks for the notice! I only asked her last week, to give me more than one day to find this thing. I've started my search online and am having 0 luck. HELP!
Last weekend, we took a group of high school seniors up north for a weekend in NYC/Connecticut. It was really fun and I think they were able to see a part of NYC that most people never see unless they live there. It was interesting to listen to them share about the things that impacted them - visiting Times Square church, staying at the mission in the Bronx, working at Genexel and serving the homeless at Abounding Grace. Of course, staying in my mom's house was also an experience! All in all, I think they all had a super time.
Now we're back, and aside from the usual work/homework/gymnastics we have Kt's very first band concert tomorrow night (and so my journey as band parent begins!), subbing in the lunch room again (always an adventure!), making dinner for our neighbor whose husband was just diagnosed with the exact same lymphoma that inflicted my father - but he's younger and has 6 children and another on the way! and Em's slumber party (hopefully!!) on Friday night. Oh, then there's our summer leaders meeting on Saturday (here) for our 4-5 trips, marriage counseling on Sunday.... oh, and I'm taking a short break to attend a Southern Living at Home party. On Monday, after I volunteer in Em's class, I'm going to collapse. OK?
I did have to say no to something I was very interested in being part of. The timing was bad, the day they chose for meetings didn't work and the more I think about it, the more I think God planned it that way. I'm not sure it was the right thing for me to participate in, so I'm gladly passing on it. It was flattering to be asked, though!=)
Well, I'm off to hunt for a black below the knee skirt for Kt's first concert. She informed me yesterday that her black pants didn't fit.... thanks for the notice! I only asked her last week, to give me more than one day to find this thing. I've started my search online and am having 0 luck. HELP!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Justice
The man I've referred to a couple times on here, who killed three people in Florida on Christmas Day, was finally arrested and charged. Drunk driving, cocaine, xanax and speeding all contributing factors. I'd say this was way overdue.
Wow. Looks like he spent a whole 24 hours in jail.
Wow. Looks like he spent a whole 24 hours in jail.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Global Freezing?
All summer long all we hear about is global warming this, global warming that.... Then winter hits, freezing cold, snow, wind chills.... I'm thinking it's more like global freezing than global warming!! Let's here it for summer, warm beaches, flip flops and sun!!! Send the warming my way, please!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Space Expedition
After our harrowing snow adventure last Thursday, we packed our house with 7 high school seniors for a brief sleepover, picked up two more college students in the morning and drove up to Connecticut. The girls and I put those poor, cold souls on the 2:22 Metro North train in to Grand Central Station and they have been serving NYC ever since!! While they have been trucking around, painting, filing, organizing clothes and serving the homeless, we've been having fun.... shopping, eating out, shopping, movies (LOL) and now we are getting ready to host them for the night in the house I grew up in. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms - smaller than average, if you know what I mean!! I have to go make a couple breakfast casseroles, blow up some air mattresses, move all their stuff downstairs and then wait.
Just to give you an idea of how big God is, we got them up here in a 10 passenger van that had a broken door until Wednesday, made it through a snowstorm on Thursday to our house and found the only parking space in a sea of cars at the Fairfield train station when we arrived Friday afternoon - just steps from the station door. Any commuter would be wildly jealous of our "luck" - not to mention, the parking attendant, the nicest, sweetest man in the world was right there to let us know that for $6 we could park it there all weekend. Yay!! Now I don't have to wander out at all hours of the evening looking for them when they arrive sometime around midnight? Thanks, God!
So, tomorrow we process a bit of what they just did. I don't know if they will be coherent enough to go to church... but that's OK, because they've been "doing church" all weekend!! We have some great kids at our church - no, really, they are amazing!
Just to give you an idea of how big God is, we got them up here in a 10 passenger van that had a broken door until Wednesday, made it through a snowstorm on Thursday to our house and found the only parking space in a sea of cars at the Fairfield train station when we arrived Friday afternoon - just steps from the station door. Any commuter would be wildly jealous of our "luck" - not to mention, the parking attendant, the nicest, sweetest man in the world was right there to let us know that for $6 we could park it there all weekend. Yay!! Now I don't have to wander out at all hours of the evening looking for them when they arrive sometime around midnight? Thanks, God!
So, tomorrow we process a bit of what they just did. I don't know if they will be coherent enough to go to church... but that's OK, because they've been "doing church" all weekend!! We have some great kids at our church - no, really, they are amazing!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Why I Believe in Hibernation
I wonder why God didn't create us to hibernate?? It really makes so much sense. Storing up food, that we would eat sparingly (think of all the money we'd save not eating out!), bundling up and not having to go out in the snow (no need for plows or shovels - just let the snow fall where it may!) and lots and lots of good sleep (everyone could catch up, then we'd all enjoy and happy, healthy summer!). Instead, we have cold to brave, snow storms to ruin all our important plans and by summer we're still trying to catch up on our sleep, and the nights are shorter!!
So, here I am, have to leave for work in about 10 minutes, haven't packed for the trip I'm supposed to leave for this afternoon because, well, it's snowing, and they are predicting ice after that and the storm is heading towards my destination. This has kind of dampered my attitude about getting ready, because instinctively, I'm ready for hibernation! In my humble opinion, nobody should be going anywhere today. We should all hunker down, bundle up, watch a good movie, have a cup of hot cocoa and let the snow fall where it may. Happy Hibernating!
So, here I am, have to leave for work in about 10 minutes, haven't packed for the trip I'm supposed to leave for this afternoon because, well, it's snowing, and they are predicting ice after that and the storm is heading towards my destination. This has kind of dampered my attitude about getting ready, because instinctively, I'm ready for hibernation! In my humble opinion, nobody should be going anywhere today. We should all hunker down, bundle up, watch a good movie, have a cup of hot cocoa and let the snow fall where it may. Happy Hibernating!
"Tweens?
I had this conversation with Kt today.... and I'm just totally stunned. Is there a pill to make your kid stop getting older??
Ah.... too young to know better.
Really, though, I'm quite disturbed. Looks like I have a lot of ground to cover with this child, unfortunately. Whenever we have something like this happen, I'm kind of glad it's happening at an age where she tells me, then again I was so hoping these things would not even be on her radar until at least Middle School!! The scary thing is that I know this whole situation is driven by a desire to be loved and accepted by her peers. It doesn't really matter that she has tons of friends, she just likes that feeling. HELP!!!
Kt: (arriving home from school) Is there ANY way at all we can wait until Saturday to drive up to Connecticut? Any way AT ALL?
Me: Why? What's going on?
Kt: Only the most popular party, all the popular kids are going and I really, really want to go!! They are going to play truth or dare and spin the bottle and I really, really want to go. PLEASE?
Me: Uh, what makes you think that I want you to go to a party where they are going to play spin the bottle?
Kt: Come on, we're not, like, 4 anymore or anything!!
Me: Do you even know what spin the bottle is???
Kt: Sure, it's when.... (she describes exactly how it's played - and it's just painful for me to listen to her enthusiasm!)
Me: What if I don't want boys kissing "or something" you? Do you really think that is OK?
Kt: Well, what if I don't play, but I just watch?
Me: What if I just say we're going to Connecticut!!
Ah.... too young to know better.
Really, though, I'm quite disturbed. Looks like I have a lot of ground to cover with this child, unfortunately. Whenever we have something like this happen, I'm kind of glad it's happening at an age where she tells me, then again I was so hoping these things would not even be on her radar until at least Middle School!! The scary thing is that I know this whole situation is driven by a desire to be loved and accepted by her peers. It doesn't really matter that she has tons of friends, she just likes that feeling. HELP!!!
Monday, January 14, 2008
Resembling Normal
Well, both girls got on the bus this morning for the first time in 12 days.... and that was having only one day after an 11 day vacation where they were both in school. That's nearly 33 days at home with my children. I need a vacation!!!
Of course, after the girls got on the bus, I scarfed down my breakfast and headed over to their school for my bimonthly 1st grade volunteering! Yup, my first day of freedom and I was in school. Hard to believe, but I guess that's life! After that, grocery shopping for the first time in a few weeks, then I sat around and waiting for my aunt to call me to come help her with her passport application - of course, she called me at 3:30.... I should have just gone to the gym!! Humph.
Kt had piano lessons, the girls did their homework, I cooked real food for dinner - yummy, nutritious meal, now I have laundry, bible study stuff and a snack to make for tomorrow, might possibly hop on that treadmill now that T moved it for me back to the one outlet in our dingy basement. It feels like we're back to "normal"!
Crazy week ahead - bible study tomorrow am, then work, dr. appointment Wednesday, then help my aunt (hope that works out better than today!), then Girl's Grace Adventure, Thursday is packing and work... then leave for Connecticut. Maybe. Still not sure about that trip. Taking the seniors to NYC, T is. Maybe. That's kind of how it always is around. "Normal"!
I put together a card last night... finally.... so we can send out our Hungary Thank Yous. It's kind of late to do that, but the whole thing was a lot to process and it's fluid. Looks like we might go back this summer. When we decided to go last year, I told everyone that it was not something we'd do every year. Taking the whole family on a missions trip is a huge undertaking. Well, looks like we might try that again. "Normal"! I eat my words.
Gotta run. Lots to do. Hopefully I can fit a couple blog posts in there this week. "Normal"!
Of course, after the girls got on the bus, I scarfed down my breakfast and headed over to their school for my bimonthly 1st grade volunteering! Yup, my first day of freedom and I was in school. Hard to believe, but I guess that's life! After that, grocery shopping for the first time in a few weeks, then I sat around and waiting for my aunt to call me to come help her with her passport application - of course, she called me at 3:30.... I should have just gone to the gym!! Humph.
Kt had piano lessons, the girls did their homework, I cooked real food for dinner - yummy, nutritious meal, now I have laundry, bible study stuff and a snack to make for tomorrow, might possibly hop on that treadmill now that T moved it for me back to the one outlet in our dingy basement. It feels like we're back to "normal"!
Crazy week ahead - bible study tomorrow am, then work, dr. appointment Wednesday, then help my aunt (hope that works out better than today!), then Girl's Grace Adventure, Thursday is packing and work... then leave for Connecticut. Maybe. Still not sure about that trip. Taking the seniors to NYC, T is. Maybe. That's kind of how it always is around. "Normal"!
I put together a card last night... finally.... so we can send out our Hungary Thank Yous. It's kind of late to do that, but the whole thing was a lot to process and it's fluid. Looks like we might go back this summer. When we decided to go last year, I told everyone that it was not something we'd do every year. Taking the whole family on a missions trip is a huge undertaking. Well, looks like we might try that again. "Normal"! I eat my words.
Gotta run. Lots to do. Hopefully I can fit a couple blog posts in there this week. "Normal"!
Friday, January 11, 2008
Christmas Day Tragedy Update
I've still tried to follow this story. A Florida blogger posted this about the same accident. Elsewhere in another post on her blog someone left a comment to the effect that Belniak (the driver of the truck that "pulverized" the Tahoe) is the brother of the assistant state DA. There was a suggestion that having that connection is what is contributing to the delay of any charges in this case. That just seems utterly objectionable to me consider what this mad did!! Do connections like that literally allow someone to get away with murder?
The Pinnacle of Unmotivatedness
OK, probably not a word, but for me, today it is! Today is my throw in the towel day, my "I totally give up!" day and my "I don't want to do ANYTHING!" day. I'm home for the 9th day in a row with a sick child, barely got the first one on the bus AGAIN, canceled the birthday party of the century planned for tomorrow, and made a doctor's appointment for myself for this afternoon to see if I'm somehow contracted strep as well. I mean, 9 straight days with strep kids - how can I not have it, right??
I have yet to make it back to the gym, still have a few Christmas decorations to take down, need to get started on mounds of laundry. Instead, I'm just a bit annoyed, dejected and just plain unmotivated to do anything. Em is upstairs, hacking away, had a slight temperature of 100 this morning - so I kept her home again. Of course, now her temp is normal, she was dressed and ready to go, and I know she's making a huge mess upstairs - craft time. What am I doing? I'm down here blogging. At this point, does it matter?
To make everything even more confusing, all my emails to T, which is the primary way we communicate, have bounced back. I guess his work is blocking gmail?? Anyway, all day yesterday I thought he was taking care of a few things... but he never got the messages. Just frustrating, I tell you! And his cell phone isn't even working - can't call him, can't text him, can't email him.... I might at well be a single parent at this point!!! Anyway, if you're wondering where he is as well, it's likely you're in the same boat! Happy sailing!
I have yet to make it back to the gym, still have a few Christmas decorations to take down, need to get started on mounds of laundry. Instead, I'm just a bit annoyed, dejected and just plain unmotivated to do anything. Em is upstairs, hacking away, had a slight temperature of 100 this morning - so I kept her home again. Of course, now her temp is normal, she was dressed and ready to go, and I know she's making a huge mess upstairs - craft time. What am I doing? I'm down here blogging. At this point, does it matter?
To make everything even more confusing, all my emails to T, which is the primary way we communicate, have bounced back. I guess his work is blocking gmail?? Anyway, all day yesterday I thought he was taking care of a few things... but he never got the messages. Just frustrating, I tell you! And his cell phone isn't even working - can't call him, can't text him, can't email him.... I might at well be a single parent at this point!!! Anyway, if you're wondering where he is as well, it's likely you're in the same boat! Happy sailing!
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Bibles in the Classroom
I was reading this article this morning on Fox about a federal judge ruling that passing out Bibles in a classroom or basically anywhere on school property was "unconstitutional". It's an interesting piece, and interesting that the 4 families who brought the suit against the school system were Christian families.
First of all, this would never happen around here! It's important to note this case resides deep in the Bible belt, Missouri. While I think the anti-religion movement in public schools has gone way too extreme (where even the mention of the word "Christmas" or "Jesus" is not allowed around here!), I have stepped back a bit to realize this protection extends to my own children beyond Christianity. While I personally wouldn't object to my child bringing home a Bible from school, I might take issue if they were given a Koran or some Satanism manual. As a parent, if my children are going to be exposed to other religions in grade school (once in high school, it's going to happen on their own!), I'd like it to be my decision. So, while I think "unconstitutional" might be a stretch, since the constitution was written on Biblical principles, I do appreciate my children being protected at that young age from various religious teachings I may not agree with.
I don't blame the Gideons for trying, but there are plenty of ways to spread the Good News in the world.
First of all, this would never happen around here! It's important to note this case resides deep in the Bible belt, Missouri. While I think the anti-religion movement in public schools has gone way too extreme (where even the mention of the word "Christmas" or "Jesus" is not allowed around here!), I have stepped back a bit to realize this protection extends to my own children beyond Christianity. While I personally wouldn't object to my child bringing home a Bible from school, I might take issue if they were given a Koran or some Satanism manual. As a parent, if my children are going to be exposed to other religions in grade school (once in high school, it's going to happen on their own!), I'd like it to be my decision. So, while I think "unconstitutional" might be a stretch, since the constitution was written on Biblical principles, I do appreciate my children being protected at that young age from various religious teachings I may not agree with.
I don't blame the Gideons for trying, but there are plenty of ways to spread the Good News in the world.
Happy Birthday, Em!
Today, Em is 7 years old. She is a little sad she won't be in school for her birthday. Instead, she'll be going to work with me. How boring! LOL Poor thing -- she may not have her greatly wished for sleepover party this weekend, either. That has been her dream for a couple years.
5 years ago, Em, Kt and I were heading to Connecticut to celebrate her birthday with my parents. My dad was not doing so well, finishing up chemo, stem cell transplant and radiation, with the lymphoma taking over his body. On our way up, she threw up in the car. Illness seems to plague her on her birthdays! My father was seriously disappointed that we had to turn around at the Delaware Memorial Bridge and return home. It would have been our last visit with him at home, not the hospital.
Em tells me all the time she misses Pabu, but in the same breath will tell me she doesn't remember him at all. She just knows in her sweet little heart that she loves and misses him. So do I!! My dad love Em with all of his heart as well. They share the exact same glisten in their eyes, positive attitude about the most minute details and an intensity about things they believe in - even if it's just about the weather! Oh, they are both passionate about weather!
When Em was very young, she would sit in a chair and turn her feet around at her ankles with a silly little grin on her face - it's the same grin my dad always had while he twirled his foot around sitting in his chair in the front of the TV. I'm so thankful they met each other before my dad passed just a couple months later.
So, today we celebrate my little Em turning 7, and I can't believe how far she's come in those 5 years, plus the two she had that she doesn't even remember!!
5 years ago, Em, Kt and I were heading to Connecticut to celebrate her birthday with my parents. My dad was not doing so well, finishing up chemo, stem cell transplant and radiation, with the lymphoma taking over his body. On our way up, she threw up in the car. Illness seems to plague her on her birthdays! My father was seriously disappointed that we had to turn around at the Delaware Memorial Bridge and return home. It would have been our last visit with him at home, not the hospital.
Em tells me all the time she misses Pabu, but in the same breath will tell me she doesn't remember him at all. She just knows in her sweet little heart that she loves and misses him. So do I!! My dad love Em with all of his heart as well. They share the exact same glisten in their eyes, positive attitude about the most minute details and an intensity about things they believe in - even if it's just about the weather! Oh, they are both passionate about weather!
When Em was very young, she would sit in a chair and turn her feet around at her ankles with a silly little grin on her face - it's the same grin my dad always had while he twirled his foot around sitting in his chair in the front of the TV. I'm so thankful they met each other before my dad passed just a couple months later.
So, today we celebrate my little Em turning 7, and I can't believe how far she's come in those 5 years, plus the two she had that she doesn't even remember!!
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Cruisin'
I can dream a little while I'm stuck home with my sick kids, right? I was thinking about cruises today when Em asked T for a "disinfect and protect" wipe. Yes, we're watching wayyyy too much TV these days! Anyway, it's unlikely I'll be taking a cruise, but for those of you who can consider one, CNN has a great piece on choosing a kid friendly cruise. Now, if you want to take your kids, read carefully. If you don't want to take your kids, just take note of the cruise lines that everyone with kids will be choosing! Catch my drift? ;-) Bon Voyage!
"Not Immune"
That's what they're saying.... but that's my mall AND that's where I always park! EEK! One would have to admit that over the past couple years, as the mall has added more restaurants, chic shopping and parking garages, the number of loiterers has increased ten-fold. I'm not sure why, but it doesn't feel as safe as it used to, back when Jo-Ann's was on the second floor!
Truth be told, with the addition of the movie theater, Cheesecake Factory and Nordstrom, I've completely avoided the mall at all cost... unless it's a weekday or I have a great, great need. And the last time we were there, we saw the new soft playspace they added - can we say superbug? or unattended minors?
I guess I'll be a bit more watchful about where I park, when I go and the people around me. I guess putting in metal detectors wouldn't help anything! (I'm totally kidding, folks.... I'm not that naive!) But now that I know we're not immune, I'll definitely be thinking twice about that trip to the mall!
Truth be told, with the addition of the movie theater, Cheesecake Factory and Nordstrom, I've completely avoided the mall at all cost... unless it's a weekday or I have a great, great need. And the last time we were there, we saw the new soft playspace they added - can we say superbug? or unattended minors?
I guess I'll be a bit more watchful about where I park, when I go and the people around me. I guess putting in metal detectors wouldn't help anything! (I'm totally kidding, folks.... I'm not that naive!) But now that I know we're not immune, I'll definitely be thinking twice about that trip to the mall!
It's A First
Yup, I'm blogging early. Actually, I've been up since 6:30 - pretty good for a non-morning person like myself. I had to run over and get some labwork done, then finished so early I ran to Wal-mart for some birthday stuff (since I'll be home all day with a sick birthday girl - strep!) and now I'm home.
I was ever so nice to wake up on a January morning, bright and early, before the sun was even up, and have that outdoor thermometer read 60!!!! Granted, it was a little drizzly and very cloudy, but those clouds made a brilliant backdrop for an amazing sunrise, let me tell you. I'm not a huge cloud fan, but the colors of the sunrise reflected off those gray clouds was magnificent. There's got to be a lesson in there somewhere, but it's too early for my feeble brain!
So, I'm now home with a few moments to spare before I go wake up child #1 and see if she's better enough to head off to school today. Poor thing, she still looked a bit ill yesterday. I'm just not 100% sure she'll make it all day. I honestly could crawl back into bed, but there's a lot to do around here if we're going to birthday!
So, Em finally did it. For the first time, she told me she's too old for something. I've seen her lose interest in things, like Barney, but she's never verbalized to me that she's just too old. So here we are, days before her 7th birthday, and I informed her that her father replaced her beloved ice cream cone toothbrush with a Dora one. She looked very forlorn and said to me, "You know, I'm just past Dora!" I replied, "Oh, you are?" She responded, "Yes. I think I'm too old for that." Anyway, we agreed that for now, with the strep an all, she needed to use Dora. But I guess I'll be picking up one more birthday gift!
I was ever so nice to wake up on a January morning, bright and early, before the sun was even up, and have that outdoor thermometer read 60!!!! Granted, it was a little drizzly and very cloudy, but those clouds made a brilliant backdrop for an amazing sunrise, let me tell you. I'm not a huge cloud fan, but the colors of the sunrise reflected off those gray clouds was magnificent. There's got to be a lesson in there somewhere, but it's too early for my feeble brain!
So, I'm now home with a few moments to spare before I go wake up child #1 and see if she's better enough to head off to school today. Poor thing, she still looked a bit ill yesterday. I'm just not 100% sure she'll make it all day. I honestly could crawl back into bed, but there's a lot to do around here if we're going to birthday!
So, Em finally did it. For the first time, she told me she's too old for something. I've seen her lose interest in things, like Barney, but she's never verbalized to me that she's just too old. So here we are, days before her 7th birthday, and I informed her that her father replaced her beloved ice cream cone toothbrush with a Dora one. She looked very forlorn and said to me, "You know, I'm just past Dora!" I replied, "Oh, you are?" She responded, "Yes. I think I'm too old for that." Anyway, we agreed that for now, with the strep an all, she needed to use Dora. But I guess I'll be picking up one more birthday gift!
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
I'm telling you...
Walt Disney World is NOT just for kids! ;-) (It might not even be for frugal adults!!)
OK - I'll keep going. We love Disney, but we've learned to cut some corners in the food department. We have yet to dine at any of the Grand Floridian restaurants, although we've heard they are fabulous. About the most we spend on a meal is at the Crystal Palace - which is a character buffet for around $35/person, or the last time we splurged for an African meal at Boma, which was super!! We have never eaten at a Disney restaurant we haven't liked, and we've probably only eaten at about 5% of the ones offered. That being said, who cares if ONE restaurant at Disney is not for kids. There are so many others that are totally marketed just for kids it just seems realistic that at least one is reserved for those kid-weary parents who continue to vacation in a huge kids playground.
If you are staying at the Grand Floridian and you have young children AND you're willing to spend at least $125 per person at a restaurant, save yourself the pain, get a WDW babysitter, buy your child something they like for dinner and go enjoy a quiet, peaceful, luxurious dinner. While you're doing that, I'll be hanging out at Starlight Ray's cafe, scarfing down a Ceasar salad before I run off to enjoy Buzz Lightyear. See ya! Enjoy!!
OK - I'll keep going. We love Disney, but we've learned to cut some corners in the food department. We have yet to dine at any of the Grand Floridian restaurants, although we've heard they are fabulous. About the most we spend on a meal is at the Crystal Palace - which is a character buffet for around $35/person, or the last time we splurged for an African meal at Boma, which was super!! We have never eaten at a Disney restaurant we haven't liked, and we've probably only eaten at about 5% of the ones offered. That being said, who cares if ONE restaurant at Disney is not for kids. There are so many others that are totally marketed just for kids it just seems realistic that at least one is reserved for those kid-weary parents who continue to vacation in a huge kids playground.
If you are staying at the Grand Floridian and you have young children AND you're willing to spend at least $125 per person at a restaurant, save yourself the pain, get a WDW babysitter, buy your child something they like for dinner and go enjoy a quiet, peaceful, luxurious dinner. While you're doing that, I'll be hanging out at Starlight Ray's cafe, scarfing down a Ceasar salad before I run off to enjoy Buzz Lightyear. See ya! Enjoy!!
Select a Candidate
Kind of a like a "dial your winner" kind of thing. It's a bunch of questions you answer to see who aligns best with what is important to you in a presidential candidate. My top match was Duncan Hunter - who is he?? (I feel like I live in a hole or something!)
Novel Idea
Ok, this made me laugh... even today! Kids are so creative, just not always good forecasters.;-)
Life and Perils of a Mom
I kept Kt home again today - she's still pretty wiped from this whole fever/strep thing. I had super high hopes of sending her tomorrow, to the point where I was finally planning all the things I would do that I haven't had a chance to do since she got sick last Wednesday.... then I got the call. Em has a fever now, had to pick her up early. Even if I send Kt tomorrow, guess what I'll be doing all day??? And her birthday is Thursday and I still haven't finished shopping for it. I'm totally sunk. I feel like I need someone to come disinfect my entire life!!!!
UPDATE: Em tested positive for strep. I guess Kt had it after all.... and maybe this fever won't last 5 days!
UPDATE: Em tested positive for strep. I guess Kt had it after all.... and maybe this fever won't last 5 days!
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Warning!
Next post is not for the faint of stomach!!
We ended up taking Kt to the ER today. Actually, T did. I rely on him to do all the doctor stuff - I hate doctors. Anyway....
Yesterday, Kt was doing much better, but today was completely different. She was back to being really sick, had a fever that even ibuprofen wouldn't touch and her glands were so swollen she could only speak in a very garbled fashion. We had thought we might take her to "Nighttime Pediatrics", a new area walk-in after hours clinic, however that place is turning out to be a problem. At 1:30 this afternoon, the earliest appointment we could get was at 6 pm. We knew from my sister's experience there that would likely have us out the door around 9.... and they won't give any kind of antibiotics unless a test says you need them.
Kt has this unfortunate problem of really large tonsils. No one has yet mentioned tonsillitis, but when we head to the doctor with them, they jump back in fright. Apparently, nothing was different at the ER today. After gawking and comforting that poor child, the doctor opted to give her an antibiotic and we decided that now would not be the best time to learn how to swallow a pill. Long story short, T nearly had a coronary trying to find a 24 hour pharmacy on a Sunday night that carries a mega dose of Erythromycin in liquid form. Due to a possible penicillen allergy, that's what we're left with. We are hoping for a major turn around for that child so we don't miss more school than necessary.
I had the dubious job of taking Em to a birthday party (that Kt had to miss). It was fun, but I had been hoping to do something like head to the gym during that party. Instead, Em decided to spring on me that her stomach hurt, and with the illness in the house.... I opted to stay there for the party trying to contact T at the ER. What an afternoon!
So, one more day at home. One more week without my regular grocery shopping trip, gym visit, volunteering in Em's class.... Cabin fever is beginning to set in. Luckily, I have a warm day to look forward to - highs in the low 60's. If Kt is feeling better at all, we are going walking together! That should be fun! As for dinner.... well, I have no idea what we'll do. Tuna?
We ended up taking Kt to the ER today. Actually, T did. I rely on him to do all the doctor stuff - I hate doctors. Anyway....
Yesterday, Kt was doing much better, but today was completely different. She was back to being really sick, had a fever that even ibuprofen wouldn't touch and her glands were so swollen she could only speak in a very garbled fashion. We had thought we might take her to "Nighttime Pediatrics", a new area walk-in after hours clinic, however that place is turning out to be a problem. At 1:30 this afternoon, the earliest appointment we could get was at 6 pm. We knew from my sister's experience there that would likely have us out the door around 9.... and they won't give any kind of antibiotics unless a test says you need them.
Kt has this unfortunate problem of really large tonsils. No one has yet mentioned tonsillitis, but when we head to the doctor with them, they jump back in fright. Apparently, nothing was different at the ER today. After gawking and comforting that poor child, the doctor opted to give her an antibiotic and we decided that now would not be the best time to learn how to swallow a pill. Long story short, T nearly had a coronary trying to find a 24 hour pharmacy on a Sunday night that carries a mega dose of Erythromycin in liquid form. Due to a possible penicillen allergy, that's what we're left with. We are hoping for a major turn around for that child so we don't miss more school than necessary.
I had the dubious job of taking Em to a birthday party (that Kt had to miss). It was fun, but I had been hoping to do something like head to the gym during that party. Instead, Em decided to spring on me that her stomach hurt, and with the illness in the house.... I opted to stay there for the party trying to contact T at the ER. What an afternoon!
So, one more day at home. One more week without my regular grocery shopping trip, gym visit, volunteering in Em's class.... Cabin fever is beginning to set in. Luckily, I have a warm day to look forward to - highs in the low 60's. If Kt is feeling better at all, we are going walking together! That should be fun! As for dinner.... well, I have no idea what we'll do. Tuna?
So Not Athletic
I won't even pretend to be a tiny bit athletic!! Now, if I just knew what curling was!
| You Are Curling |
 What you lack in athleticism, you make up for in concentration. And while curling isn't much more of a sport than bowling, you *can* win a gold medal for it! |
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Christmas Tragedy Update
I have continued to follow the story involving the friends of my sister-in-law. The death toll is at three now and the perpetrator is still free. While the new article is saying that charges are "imminent", I'm still wondering what's taking so long. Not even a traffic violation? It just seems so outrageous to me. How long does it take to get results on bloodwork - taken over a week ago??? I am just really confused and hoping for some justice.
I Love Chocolate
although I wouldn't consider white chocolate truly chocolate...
| You are White Chocolate |
 You are White Chocolate You are sweet, caring, and truly very innocent. Whether your naive ways are a bit of act or not, people like to take care of you. You are a quiet flirt, and your power is often underestimated! |
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Remnants
The crowds are all gone, now we just have to clean up behind them!! I'm still working, very slowly, to clean up after a fun couple of weeks. As usual, things have been left behind. The most obvious? The illness my sister brought along! Kt got the fever last night and is home sick today. I knew this would happen, just in time to go back to school. I guess she'll be taking an extra long holiday!! Would have been nicer if my brother had decided to leave that projection thing for the wii! =)
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Back to Normal
OK, so this is a bad image (have to work on that, too, this year!), but this is back to normal site meter. Yes, you see that now that Christmas is over, all Christmas letters have been written, sent or forgotten, I'm not so popular anymore!! Hard to believe that I went from 500 to less than 50 visits a day in just a week!!
It's OK. Now my husband can relax, stop rolling his eyes and making snide comments about the Night Before Sitemeter.... back to normal, I'm just another oblivious blogger, having a little corner in the blog world all to myself again. ~sigh~
Auntie Anne's
The Washington Post has a beautiful article preceding the release of Anne Beiler's autobiography, Twist of Faith. It's a great read, fascinating and full of hope. I encourage you to read it (and they even use the word - transformation!)!
New Year
Chipped nail polish, frigid cold,
sink filled with filthy dishes
Cobwebs filling up my soul
a tangle of millions of unfulfilled wishes.
Brilliant smiles, new resolutions,
creative minds with new willingness.
Redemptive acts, the gift of life,
seasonal reminder of love's forgiveness.
TRANSFORMATION
sink filled with filthy dishes
Cobwebs filling up my soul
a tangle of millions of unfulfilled wishes.
Brilliant smiles, new resolutions,
creative minds with new willingness.
Redemptive acts, the gift of life,
seasonal reminder of love's forgiveness.
TRANSFORMATION
I was driving to the gym this morning - figured I better get to work on my "list"! I was trucking along in the bitter cold, looking at my disgusting nail polish all chipped, thinking about that strange letters we were to unscramble for the Howard County Symphony of Lights mixed up word contest. I thought to myself: Why do we start the New Year in the dead of winter??
Yesterday was gorgeous, so I can't really complain, but for all those resolutions to get out and become something more than what we are, today is more of a crawl-in-bed-and-hibernate kind of day!! Although, in some ways, if I can start it now, I can certainly continue it when it gets nice out! (I hope!) It's the least I can do for myself, my kids, my savior.
2007 was awesome. Sure, there were some stinky parts - like the sewer last year, my uncle dying suddenly, T's dad having two different kinds of cancer, having no family summer vacation, adjusting to never having T available to work from home, crazy medical issues (like a quivering liver), and other really little things. For the record, there were WAY more amazing things, like our first ever family missions adventure, lots of time with family, T's new job - which is just amazing, a day at Six Flags for free!, getting a wii, healthy children, smart children, children who know Jesus. It was truly a wonderful year.
So, now 2008. Can it be a year of Transformations? Sure it can. And while I want to simplify, I'm not sure that's the answer to being transformed. Experiences transform. My mom asked me if I see the glass half full or half empty, and seriously, that question seems to me to be the most ridiculous question EVER! I mean, my answer is "it depends on what's in it!" If it's something I like, it's half full, if it's something I loathe then it's certainly half empty! Don't we all feel the same way?? Silly question.
My year will be both half full and half empty. I know there will be ups and downs, and they will equally contribute to whatever kind of transformation will occur in my life. Each and every experience, good and bad, will sharpen me if I allow it to.
Yesterday was gorgeous, so I can't really complain, but for all those resolutions to get out and become something more than what we are, today is more of a crawl-in-bed-and-hibernate kind of day!! Although, in some ways, if I can start it now, I can certainly continue it when it gets nice out! (I hope!) It's the least I can do for myself, my kids, my savior.
2007 was awesome. Sure, there were some stinky parts - like the sewer last year, my uncle dying suddenly, T's dad having two different kinds of cancer, having no family summer vacation, adjusting to never having T available to work from home, crazy medical issues (like a quivering liver), and other really little things. For the record, there were WAY more amazing things, like our first ever family missions adventure, lots of time with family, T's new job - which is just amazing, a day at Six Flags for free!, getting a wii, healthy children, smart children, children who know Jesus. It was truly a wonderful year.
So, now 2008. Can it be a year of Transformations? Sure it can. And while I want to simplify, I'm not sure that's the answer to being transformed. Experiences transform. My mom asked me if I see the glass half full or half empty, and seriously, that question seems to me to be the most ridiculous question EVER! I mean, my answer is "it depends on what's in it!" If it's something I like, it's half full, if it's something I loathe then it's certainly half empty! Don't we all feel the same way?? Silly question.
My year will be both half full and half empty. I know there will be ups and downs, and they will equally contribute to whatever kind of transformation will occur in my life. Each and every experience, good and bad, will sharpen me if I allow it to.
Open minds, accepting hearts,
making each and every experience count.
The gift of friends, family, life,
Every corner turned, every hill we mount.
TRANSFORMATIONS.
making each and every experience count.
The gift of friends, family, life,
Every corner turned, every hill we mount.
TRANSFORMATIONS.
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