Adoption day
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Happy Birthday Ketchup!
Six years ago today, little Ketchup was born. She was a beautiful little baby and I was amazed as I held her that this tiny person was my child that I was responsible for. Reality hit the second night in the hospital when she screamed the entire night. There were many times that night that I wished I could have given her back, but six years later, I am so thankful that God has blessed our family with her. She is caring and sincere and has a laugh that is so contagious. Her is a walk down memory lane....
Monday, November 24, 2008
"Finally"
Bounce has been a little perturbed at the attention given to Christmas despite not even celebrating Thanksgiving. Today we were setting up our Christmas tree and the characters on the kids show he was watching were talking about Thanksgiving to which he excitedly yelled out "Finally, somebody is celebrating Thanksgiving instead of just Christmas."
We are thankful for many things this year and since we'll probably be out of touch for the next couple weeks (Thanksgiving in AZ and our Disneyland trip!!), I thought I would focus on Thanksgiving for this post- before I start stringing the lights on the Christmas tree!
We are especially thankful for God blessing us with the sale of our house and purchase of our current house. We feel so at home in our new house. We have so much more time to enjoy instead of spending it in traffic and feel so less rushed as we are much closer to everything (except God :-)).
We are also thankful for God's blessings despite the economy. When you see so many people hurting and struggling, we are so grateful for all that we have been blessed with.
We are thankful for our healthy kids, fantastic family and friends and the freedom to learn about God and His world as we homeschool.
We are thankful for Christ for "of Him and through Him" are all things!!
We are thankful for many things this year and since we'll probably be out of touch for the next couple weeks (Thanksgiving in AZ and our Disneyland trip!!), I thought I would focus on Thanksgiving for this post- before I start stringing the lights on the Christmas tree!
We are especially thankful for God blessing us with the sale of our house and purchase of our current house. We feel so at home in our new house. We have so much more time to enjoy instead of spending it in traffic and feel so less rushed as we are much closer to everything (except God :-)).
We are also thankful for God's blessings despite the economy. When you see so many people hurting and struggling, we are so grateful for all that we have been blessed with.
We are thankful for our healthy kids, fantastic family and friends and the freedom to learn about God and His world as we homeschool.
We are thankful for Christ for "of Him and through Him" are all things!!
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Off the wall
We celebrated Bounce's birthday by going to one of those big pizza/game places. As Ketchup and I were crashing into each other on the bumper cars, Daddy and Bounce were losing money fast on all the games. Then they got to the "Big Bass" game and Bounce pulled the lever. An alarm sounded, Bounce won the grand prize - 1,000 tickets!!!
Daddy said people gathered around in amazement at the mass of tickets spitting out of the game. At the end of the night, we had totaled about 1200 tickets. The kids were excited because they finally were able to pick out a prize "off the wall" instead of just the cheap ones in the case right in front.
Here's a link to a pic of the big win!
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3070/2999288051_d2311404f5.jpg?v=0
Daddy said people gathered around in amazement at the mass of tickets spitting out of the game. At the end of the night, we had totaled about 1200 tickets. The kids were excited because they finally were able to pick out a prize "off the wall" instead of just the cheap ones in the case right in front.
Here's a link to a pic of the big win!
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3070/2999288051_d2311404f5.jpg?v=0
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Happy Birthday Bounce!
Four years ago today it was election day and we were able to watch all the news as we held our new little baby "bounce" in our arms. He was a little baby (6lbs. 5oz.), but very happy. We had no idea how much personality our little boy would have. He is so much fun and has so much energy. He can talk your ears off and remember everything you said even when you think he's not listening.
We look forward to many more fun years with him. Here a short walk down memory lane.
We look forward to many more fun years with him. Here a short walk down memory lane.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
3 more things
I had wanted to post about 3 things but hadn't had time until now.
1.) Ketchup's Tata left sweet notes for Nana at our house since they stayed with us at different times, so Ketchup was inspired to leave "I love you" notes under all of our pillows on several nights. She left a big heart for Benjamin under his pillow the night before his surgery.
2.) We surprised the kids by telling them we are going to celebrate their birthdays in Disneyland this year. They were so excited and Ketchup started to well up tears of happiness. She's going to be a crier like her mommy I'm afraid, but now they both understand what it means to cry when you're happy; they just didn't get that before.
3.) After Bounce's surgery, he was in pain. He told me his tummy hurt, but he didn't want me to tell the doctor. It didn't make sense to him that he felt fine before the surgery, then after the surgery that we explained would fix something in his tummy, he actually felt worse. How could he be hurting if he was supposed to be "fixed?"
It made me think of how God has to prune us of things in our lives. We feel fine; life is good. We are perfectly comfortable, but God knows that there is something in our life that needs to go; it is keeping us from being "better." So God has to fix us by doing surgery, or pruning us of that thing or person that is not His perfect will for us. After the pruning, we are in pain. We hurt and it doesn't make sense to us how this is supposed to be better. Only He knows and can see the perfect, completed picture of our lives. I'm glad He knows best even if I have to be painfully pruned, but you'll have to remind me of that the next time I get cut by His scalpel.
1.) Ketchup's Tata left sweet notes for Nana at our house since they stayed with us at different times, so Ketchup was inspired to leave "I love you" notes under all of our pillows on several nights. She left a big heart for Benjamin under his pillow the night before his surgery.
2.) We surprised the kids by telling them we are going to celebrate their birthdays in Disneyland this year. They were so excited and Ketchup started to well up tears of happiness. She's going to be a crier like her mommy I'm afraid, but now they both understand what it means to cry when you're happy; they just didn't get that before.
3.) After Bounce's surgery, he was in pain. He told me his tummy hurt, but he didn't want me to tell the doctor. It didn't make sense to him that he felt fine before the surgery, then after the surgery that we explained would fix something in his tummy, he actually felt worse. How could he be hurting if he was supposed to be "fixed?"
It made me think of how God has to prune us of things in our lives. We feel fine; life is good. We are perfectly comfortable, but God knows that there is something in our life that needs to go; it is keeping us from being "better." So God has to fix us by doing surgery, or pruning us of that thing or person that is not His perfect will for us. After the pruning, we are in pain. We hurt and it doesn't make sense to us how this is supposed to be better. Only He knows and can see the perfect, completed picture of our lives. I'm glad He knows best even if I have to be painfully pruned, but you'll have to remind me of that the next time I get cut by His scalpel.
Time to Catch up
Here are some pictures to fill you in on our fast flying month of October.
After studying frogs and giraffes, we had a fun day at the zoo with some close friends. It was neat to see the animals we had been studying up close.
My parents have had to come in town this month at different times in order to help out with Benjamin after his surgery. Ketchup and Bounce enjoyed their Tata while he was in town at the beginning of the month. They were able to wrestle and wrestle some more and my dad proved to be here at the right time to use his post hole digging expertise to help us put up a new fence.
This is a picture of our new backyard. We are enjoying the big, established trees and have completed the fence (just needs stain). I also put my "farming" skills to the test by getting the yard ready and then laying grass seed. We now have the beginning of a green lawn, but it took me about 3 weeks to recover from those 3 days of physical labor.
Bounce had his hernia surgery on Oct. 16th. He did really well. He was nervous at first, but relaxed and that "goofy juice" worked like a charm. My mom came in town to help me with the near impossible task of keeping him from bouncing or running or anything active for 10 days after. We have a countdown going and he has 2 more days to go. Here is a picture of my mom helping him figure out the DS that his cousin lent him to keep him on the couch. I think I can safely bet that a DS will be on Bounce's Christmas list.
Doesn't seem like that much when I put this all together, but it's amazing how much time has passed since I last posted. Life is busy but good!
After studying frogs and giraffes, we had a fun day at the zoo with some close friends. It was neat to see the animals we had been studying up close.
My parents have had to come in town this month at different times in order to help out with Benjamin after his surgery. Ketchup and Bounce enjoyed their Tata while he was in town at the beginning of the month. They were able to wrestle and wrestle some more and my dad proved to be here at the right time to use his post hole digging expertise to help us put up a new fence.
This is a picture of our new backyard. We are enjoying the big, established trees and have completed the fence (just needs stain). I also put my "farming" skills to the test by getting the yard ready and then laying grass seed. We now have the beginning of a green lawn, but it took me about 3 weeks to recover from those 3 days of physical labor.
Bounce had his hernia surgery on Oct. 16th. He did really well. He was nervous at first, but relaxed and that "goofy juice" worked like a charm. My mom came in town to help me with the near impossible task of keeping him from bouncing or running or anything active for 10 days after. We have a countdown going and he has 2 more days to go. Here is a picture of my mom helping him figure out the DS that his cousin lent him to keep him on the couch. I think I can safely bet that a DS will be on Bounce's Christmas list.
Doesn't seem like that much when I put this all together, but it's amazing how much time has passed since I last posted. Life is busy but good!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Things heard around our house this week
During school:
1. A song about metamorphosis that I made up so the kids could remember the word.
2. Lots and lots of frog stories (The Frog and Toad books are their favorite).
3. Weird facts about frogs like only the males make noise and the females have smaller ears.
During chore time: On sheet day (the day I wash the sheets on the beds), Bounce and Ketchup ran up to me and he asked, "Can we serve you by doing your bed?"
What a sweet kids to know they are serving and not just doing to do things.
During meal time: We watch the squirrels every day as we're eating and on Friday two squirrels began to mate. I nervously waited to see what would be said or what would happen next. Ketchup said, "Look, it's a piggyback ride." Then the female squirrel would have none of it and they started wrestling. Bounce after watching them for a few minutes rolling around and wrestling said "I wish I was a squirrel."
1. A song about metamorphosis that I made up so the kids could remember the word.
2. Lots and lots of frog stories (The Frog and Toad books are their favorite).
3. Weird facts about frogs like only the males make noise and the females have smaller ears.
During chore time: On sheet day (the day I wash the sheets on the beds), Bounce and Ketchup ran up to me and he asked, "Can we serve you by doing your bed?"
What a sweet kids to know they are serving and not just doing to do things.
During meal time: We watch the squirrels every day as we're eating and on Friday two squirrels began to mate. I nervously waited to see what would be said or what would happen next. Ketchup said, "Look, it's a piggyback ride." Then the female squirrel would have none of it and they started wrestling. Bounce after watching them for a few minutes rolling around and wrestling said "I wish I was a squirrel."
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Our First Week of School
We finished our first week of school on Friday. In theory, Ketchup is in kindergarten and Bounce is in preschool. We studied clocks to start off the year with the theme of using time wisely. We had fun making our own sundial and pendulum and I had great pictures to show off, but I can't find the usb connector for the camera. I thought I had checked everything off the I haven't found it yet list. Oh well.
The kids enjoyed their first week. Ketchup had her first spelling test and aced it. Bounce will have his first letter test this coming week, so he has that to look forward to.
We also had our first soccer games of the season. We pretty much picked up where we left off last season. Ketchup scored 5 goals and Bounce was good to want to play in the second half since most of the boys were tired (it was hot). His poor little team just becomes timid on field although they pretty much matched up in size with their opponent. He said he had fun though, so it was a success for him.
The kids were disappointed we couldn't do school this weekend as they're excited to learn about frogs as our next theme. I better go get my plans for the week ready. Hopefully I'll have some fun frog facts in the next post (and some clock pictures as well).
The kids enjoyed their first week. Ketchup had her first spelling test and aced it. Bounce will have his first letter test this coming week, so he has that to look forward to.
We also had our first soccer games of the season. We pretty much picked up where we left off last season. Ketchup scored 5 goals and Bounce was good to want to play in the second half since most of the boys were tired (it was hot). His poor little team just becomes timid on field although they pretty much matched up in size with their opponent. He said he had fun though, so it was a success for him.
The kids were disappointed we couldn't do school this weekend as they're excited to learn about frogs as our next theme. I better go get my plans for the week ready. Hopefully I'll have some fun frog facts in the next post (and some clock pictures as well).
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
We're IN!!!!!
I wanted to title this post - Moving in - AKA - world record number of Walmart trips in one week topped off with another trip to Lowe's/Home Depot.
Finally I have a chance to update the blog. We are in our new house and the picture of Kailee from the previous post is how I feel today. I have about 5 more boxes to unpack- hooray! It is starting to feel like home and I even was able to put up a few things on the wall yesterday.
Highlights of our new home:
Seeing the kids squeal with delight as we watched a squirrel during breakfast.
Playing hide and seek and finding really cool hiding spots.
Kids taking a "short-cut" to get to other rooms of the house. Our old house was like a box with one hallway; this house has options.
Bella, the dog, chasing squirrels in the backyard.
Being able to cook and eat dinner last night after soccer practice because our drive home took 15 minutes instead of 45 minutes!
The kids have discovered me (see it's easy to get lost in this house) and are now asking for things; gotta go for now!
Finally I have a chance to update the blog. We are in our new house and the picture of Kailee from the previous post is how I feel today. I have about 5 more boxes to unpack- hooray! It is starting to feel like home and I even was able to put up a few things on the wall yesterday.
Highlights of our new home:
Seeing the kids squeal with delight as we watched a squirrel during breakfast.
Playing hide and seek and finding really cool hiding spots.
Kids taking a "short-cut" to get to other rooms of the house. Our old house was like a box with one hallway; this house has options.
Bella, the dog, chasing squirrels in the backyard.
Being able to cook and eat dinner last night after soccer practice because our drive home took 15 minutes instead of 45 minutes!
The kids have discovered me (see it's easy to get lost in this house) and are now asking for things; gotta go for now!
Friday, August 22, 2008
What's going on....
I thought I'd fill you in since I posted last
The Olympics - the kids and I have enjoyed watching the Olympics. They now recognize Michael Phelps and enthusiastically cheer him on. They were awed by all the gymnasts could do and attempted to perform their own gymnastic feats on our couch. I let Ketchup stay up late 2 nights and watch the women's gymnastics. She almost made it to the end both nights, but not quite.
We also quickly made the transition from keeping the house in a near to perfection showing state to an anything goes, see how many messes the kids can make at once state. While we were still showing the house and I was cleaning all the time, I wondered if how easily I would transition to a real-life looking house. Well here is the answer (the kids tent in the living room).
And I'm letting them fingerpaint as I blog, so I must have made the transition a little too well!
We also have seen God use our mission trip to Guatemala to help Bounce. A while back I asked Ozzie if it was OK for Bounce to have one testicle larger than the other one. He told me that was normal, so I didn't think any more about it. In Guatemala, Ozzie translated for a man who had the same problem but on a larger scale for 15 years. The man was treated and left the clinic healed and pain free. Upon returning home, Ozzie thought it would be best to have the doctor check Bounce just in case. Well, he does have a hernia and will have surgery mid-October. Who knows how long it would've taken us to realize something was wrong if God hadn't brought our attention to it in Guatemala. I even was able to witness a hernia surgery there, so I have a better idea of what the doctors will be doing. It is amazing to see how God is always working even when we don't realize it.
We are moving next week, so I don't know when I'll be able to post next. We are excited about our new house. It will be closer to Ozzie's work and the church. Originally, the kids weren't too thrilled about moving from our neighborhood, so I explained how many things we would be closer too. They quickly came to the conclusion that we would be closer to everything. This was the kids conversation about it the other day...
Bounce: Will Preston (their cousin) be able to spend the night again?
Me: In our new house, yes.
Ketchup: We'll be closer to Preston in our new house. Don't you remember we'll be closer to everything!
Bounce: Except God.
So I guess we're moving closer to everything, except God, but hopefully we are continuing to draw closer to Him as we trust in Him for the kids' health and all the details that go with closing and moving. He has been so faithful and we are excited for the next season of our journey with Him!
The Olympics - the kids and I have enjoyed watching the Olympics. They now recognize Michael Phelps and enthusiastically cheer him on. They were awed by all the gymnasts could do and attempted to perform their own gymnastic feats on our couch. I let Ketchup stay up late 2 nights and watch the women's gymnastics. She almost made it to the end both nights, but not quite.
We also quickly made the transition from keeping the house in a near to perfection showing state to an anything goes, see how many messes the kids can make at once state. While we were still showing the house and I was cleaning all the time, I wondered if how easily I would transition to a real-life looking house. Well here is the answer (the kids tent in the living room).
And I'm letting them fingerpaint as I blog, so I must have made the transition a little too well!We also have seen God use our mission trip to Guatemala to help Bounce. A while back I asked Ozzie if it was OK for Bounce to have one testicle larger than the other one. He told me that was normal, so I didn't think any more about it. In Guatemala, Ozzie translated for a man who had the same problem but on a larger scale for 15 years. The man was treated and left the clinic healed and pain free. Upon returning home, Ozzie thought it would be best to have the doctor check Bounce just in case. Well, he does have a hernia and will have surgery mid-October. Who knows how long it would've taken us to realize something was wrong if God hadn't brought our attention to it in Guatemala. I even was able to witness a hernia surgery there, so I have a better idea of what the doctors will be doing. It is amazing to see how God is always working even when we don't realize it.
We are moving next week, so I don't know when I'll be able to post next. We are excited about our new house. It will be closer to Ozzie's work and the church. Originally, the kids weren't too thrilled about moving from our neighborhood, so I explained how many things we would be closer too. They quickly came to the conclusion that we would be closer to everything. This was the kids conversation about it the other day...
Bounce: Will Preston (their cousin) be able to spend the night again?
Me: In our new house, yes.
Ketchup: We'll be closer to Preston in our new house. Don't you remember we'll be closer to everything!
Bounce: Except God.
So I guess we're moving closer to everything, except God, but hopefully we are continuing to draw closer to Him as we trust in Him for the kids' health and all the details that go with closing and moving. He has been so faithful and we are excited for the next season of our journey with Him!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
If....
Conversation overheard today while the kids were coloring:
Bounce : If you weren't my sister, I would want to be your friend.
Ketchup: If you weren't my family, I would like being the only child. It would be quiet around here and mommy wouldn't have so much work and it would be really quiet during quiet time.
Bounce: But I am your brother
Ketchup: I'm just saying IF.
Bounce: (still questioning and confused)
Ketchup: It's OK because if you weren't my family, you would be my friend or my cousin and we could still play together.
Bounce: (content with her answer moved on to the more important superhero conversation).
Bounce : If you weren't my sister, I would want to be your friend.
Ketchup: If you weren't my family, I would like being the only child. It would be quiet around here and mommy wouldn't have so much work and it would be really quiet during quiet time.
Bounce: But I am your brother
Ketchup: I'm just saying IF.
Bounce: (still questioning and confused)
Ketchup: It's OK because if you weren't my family, you would be my friend or my cousin and we could still play together.
Bounce: (content with her answer moved on to the more important superhero conversation).
Sunday, August 10, 2008
By Request
This post is only here because of Ozzie's request (you'll understand why in a minute).We were eating lunch today with the kids and Bounce started talking about Wall-E. He first mentioned how it was so funny when Wall-E was trying to play the Wii without a TV. Then he said it was so funny when Wall-E couldn't see because he had covered his eyes with "that thing." We asked him what he was talking about since we didn't know what "that thing" meant. So Bounce stood up and walked over to me and pointed to my chest area and said "You know that thing that covers this big thing and this big thing (as he patted each one)." Bounce then learned that the original "thing" he was referring to was called a bra.
Daddy's new favorite phrase now is "that big thing." See why I would've rather not posted!
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Totally Awesome!
Last night Ketchup and Bounce's cousin spent the night and we all were wowed by the opening ceremonies of the Olympics. Ozzie and I enjoyed the show and seeing the kids' reactions to everything. It was neat to hear their comments, so I thought I would share.
Just imagine 3 kids screaming the following:
"Totally awesome"
"That is so cool"
"Amazing"
I think Bounce wins the commentary award for his comment "That is unbelievable!"
Definitely a memorable night for all.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
On/Off Switch
My mind has a very touchy on/off switch. This is why I'm awake before 5am this morning. If the kids get up during the night, my mind will usually remain off and I can quickly go back to sleep. Tonight Ketchup's nightlight went out. Thought was required to find a new bulb and replace the burnt out bulb (note to self: never again buy light bulbs at the dollar store), so my mind quickly switched on to accomplish the task.
However, switching it back off is a different story. It's as if I am pulling on the switch, hanging from it, trying to get it into the off position, but it just won't budge. So I lay in bed thinking about what I should be doing instead of just lying there in the dark.
Turning off my mind is typically difficult to do without the help of Tylenol PM or Nyquil and I'm afraid Ketchup has this disorder, too. It takes that little girl a LONG time to fall asleep. Bounce, on the other hand, is just like his daddy, within 30 seconds he is out like a light.
So, here I am blogging instead of sleeping - plotting how many cups of coffee I'll need later this afternoon!
However, switching it back off is a different story. It's as if I am pulling on the switch, hanging from it, trying to get it into the off position, but it just won't budge. So I lay in bed thinking about what I should be doing instead of just lying there in the dark.
Turning off my mind is typically difficult to do without the help of Tylenol PM or Nyquil and I'm afraid Ketchup has this disorder, too. It takes that little girl a LONG time to fall asleep. Bounce, on the other hand, is just like his daddy, within 30 seconds he is out like a light.
So, here I am blogging instead of sleeping - plotting how many cups of coffee I'll need later this afternoon!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
We are so blessed - Guatemala trip
Last week we were blessed to be able to leave the kids at home and travel to Guatemala. We had the intention of blessing others with medical and dental care, but I think we were the ones ultimately blessed. I have listened to people return from mission trips and say how blessed we are here in America. I now understand what they mean. It is hard to describe the poverty that we saw in Guatemala. Yet despite their lack of wealth, the people (especially the children) seemed so happy.
We had planned a VBS for 70 kids (which we thought was overplanning) and we had 225 kids come. Needless to say, we had to improvise. Each kid was given only one crayon and some type of paper to color as there was not enough of anything for each child, yet they were excited to have their one crayon and paper.
The children there didn't complain about not having the color they wanted or the same thing as another kid; they were just happy to have something. It's hard not to keep saying to Ketchup and Benjamin when they start to whine or complain about something since we've been back, "You know the kids in Guatemala had nothing and they didn't complain."
I also experienced the joy of serving. Selfishly, I didn't want to spend our money (we also had a lot of generous friends and family give their money to help us pay for the trip - thank you!) to go and work in a clinic and sleep in a bunk bed all week. I would've rather used the money for new furniture or a "real" vacation to Disneyland. But it was more fulfilling and enjoyable than I can describe to you to allow God to use Ozzie and I.
It really was the best vacation I have ever experienced. I totally understand now how God has created us to serve others and when we do that, He blesses us with true joy that is indescribable. When I take my focus off myself, I am able to be truly happy.
Now the transition back to the overindulgent North Dallas area begins. It is hard to go from what we experienced in Guatemala to looking for a new house and making plans for that. Selfishly I want to make plans for new furniture and decorating rooms, but I remember the dirt floors, sheet metal walls, and homes with no furniture at all.
As we go back and forth this week on negotiations for the home we want to buy, it all seems so small. I have seen that joy is not in what we think we have or own, but it is in serving and giving to others.
Friday, July 18, 2008
When God speaks....
This week has been an eventful one. We received an offer on our house and have been in SLOW negotiations all week. We are also planning to leave on our mission trip to Guatemala. I had so many worries and wonders running through my mind this last week. I knew I just needed to sit down and be still before God. My Bible study assignment was to FLAP (facts, lessons, application, prayer) John 14. So I started with verse one. Do you know what God said directly to me? "Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me." Thank you God for saying just what I needed to hear.
It looks like we'll reach an agreement with the buyer this weekend, so we're off tomorrow to look at potential houses since we'll be homeless in a little over a month. That's a good thing though!!
I'll have lots to blog about when we return from Guatemala - be prepared for some reading!
It looks like we'll reach an agreement with the buyer this weekend, so we're off tomorrow to look at potential houses since we'll be homeless in a little over a month. That's a good thing though!!
I'll have lots to blog about when we return from Guatemala - be prepared for some reading!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Why can't we go to the dentist now?
This was Bounce's question to me this morning before we began to get ready for the kids dental check up. I thought his question meant he was finally eager to go and it would not turn into the meltdown like last time. I was hopeful, all was going well as we entered the little room that they took us into. (They reserve a little room for him with a door to try and muffle his screams so he won't frighten the other kids there.) He was excited to see the Spiderman movie he had picked out to watch. He was smiling and happy UNTIL the dentist walked in the room. The smile turned to a face full of fear. Then she asked if he could wear the special "watch" to take his blood pressure and the meltdown began. The dentist was reassuring that there was progress over last time because the screams were much less intense and they actually completed 4 x-rays (that room had a door too, but occassionally I could hear him cry out). Poor little guy! The good news is that both kids are in the "No Cavity Club."
We also had our first Friday Family Movie Night tonight. We watched "Underdog." It was a cute movie and we all had fun. Daddy wanted to be extra nice tonight since we're leaving next weekend for our mission trip, so he let the kids watch Ratatouille in our room and then sleep in there all night. Bounce said he wished every night was this fun. I don't agree because it's already tomorrow and I'm still awake. I really like it when every one is in their own beds, but at least it makes for good memories which I'm awake for every last one.
We also had our first Friday Family Movie Night tonight. We watched "Underdog." It was a cute movie and we all had fun. Daddy wanted to be extra nice tonight since we're leaving next weekend for our mission trip, so he let the kids watch Ratatouille in our room and then sleep in there all night. Bounce said he wished every night was this fun. I don't agree because it's already tomorrow and I'm still awake. I really like it when every one is in their own beds, but at least it makes for good memories which I'm awake for every last one.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Where do I begin?
Since I posted last, we have had an eventful week. Depending on how many interruptions I get, I'll try to catch you up in one post.
Part 1 - Expect the Unexpected
Last week Daddy's parents and sister and her son were in town for a visit. His sister wanted us to plan a camping trip. This would be a great opportunity to use the new tent that we gave Daddy for Father's Day, so despite our reservations about camping in the July heat, we agreed to plan and participate. The day of our camping trip arrived and Daddy's sister decided to return home early leaving us and his parents and other sister. His parents and other sister were not thrilled about spending all night out in the wild woods, but our children were thrilled to go camping, so we ended up going (for most of the time as they came for the first few hours) by ourselves.
Part 2 - What else did we forget
I knew we had packed quickly, so I assumed we would forget something, but you never know how much you need things until you don't have them. Daddy forgot his sandals and walked around in my fashionable pink flip-flops for some of the time. Mommy forgot to bring sausage and tortillas to make Daddy's eggs extra yummy. I also forgot the bug spray which will lead us to part 3 in just a minute.
Overall, we had a lot of fun camping. The kids loved swimming in the lake and riding their bikes in the street instead of on the sidewalk. The highlight had to have been seeing our first live armadillo. We have seen them upside down on the side of the road, but not up and walking around in the wild. We were just about to go to sleep when our dog started barking and we heard rustling in the bushed behind us. I thought it was a raccoon, but it was a dumb armadillo who just kept waddling over to our campsite despite a barking dog and our flashlights right on him.
We enjoyed more camping fun and headed home about noon the next day. Just the right amount of camping for me.
Part 3 - I thought camping was cheap.
When we got home, I kept complaining about all my mosquito bites. Then on Sunday, Daddy had some bites and the kids had a few as well. By that time, I looked like someone had painted red polka dots all my stomach. We had to go to the doctor anyways that afternoon to get our shots before we leave for our mission trip, so we asked the doctor about our bites. She thought they might be chiggers or bed bugs, so after buying new pillows and prescription creams and anti-itch medicine, Daddy wanted to know how camping was supposed to be cheap and fun after all this. Wal-mart definitely makes money when the "P" family goes camping!
Part 1 - Expect the Unexpected
Last week Daddy's parents and sister and her son were in town for a visit. His sister wanted us to plan a camping trip. This would be a great opportunity to use the new tent that we gave Daddy for Father's Day, so despite our reservations about camping in the July heat, we agreed to plan and participate. The day of our camping trip arrived and Daddy's sister decided to return home early leaving us and his parents and other sister. His parents and other sister were not thrilled about spending all night out in the wild woods, but our children were thrilled to go camping, so we ended up going (for most of the time as they came for the first few hours) by ourselves.
Part 2 - What else did we forget
I knew we had packed quickly, so I assumed we would forget something, but you never know how much you need things until you don't have them. Daddy forgot his sandals and walked around in my fashionable pink flip-flops for some of the time. Mommy forgot to bring sausage and tortillas to make Daddy's eggs extra yummy. I also forgot the bug spray which will lead us to part 3 in just a minute.
Overall, we had a lot of fun camping. The kids loved swimming in the lake and riding their bikes in the street instead of on the sidewalk. The highlight had to have been seeing our first live armadillo. We have seen them upside down on the side of the road, but not up and walking around in the wild. We were just about to go to sleep when our dog started barking and we heard rustling in the bushed behind us. I thought it was a raccoon, but it was a dumb armadillo who just kept waddling over to our campsite despite a barking dog and our flashlights right on him.
We enjoyed more camping fun and headed home about noon the next day. Just the right amount of camping for me.
Part 3 - I thought camping was cheap.
When we got home, I kept complaining about all my mosquito bites. Then on Sunday, Daddy had some bites and the kids had a few as well. By that time, I looked like someone had painted red polka dots all my stomach. We had to go to the doctor anyways that afternoon to get our shots before we leave for our mission trip, so we asked the doctor about our bites. She thought they might be chiggers or bed bugs, so after buying new pillows and prescription creams and anti-itch medicine, Daddy wanted to know how camping was supposed to be cheap and fun after all this. Wal-mart definitely makes money when the "P" family goes camping!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Another shout out....
Actually this is another thank you, but not a sarcastic one this time and it goes to Jon and Kate Plus 8. The kids and I like to watch this show and it has inspired not only conversations, but cleaning tips. Since we're almost constantly cleaning around here (yes, the house is still on the market), we saw some little brooms and dust pans that each Gosselin kid had
to use to clean up their own crumbs and messes. We bought something similar at Wal-mart. It was well worth the $2 each. The kids love their "sweepers" as Bounce says and they have a contest to see who can sweep up the most dirt. Competition is productive!!
Just an update, that we have returned to our normal sleeping in schedule - hallelujah!
to use to clean up their own crumbs and messes. We bought something similar at Wal-mart. It was well worth the $2 each. The kids love their "sweepers" as Bounce says and they have a contest to see who can sweep up the most dirt. Competition is productive!!
Just an update, that we have returned to our normal sleeping in schedule - hallelujah!
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Thank You VBS (sense my sarcasm?)
Last week was VBS at our church. The kids had a blast with all the crafts and stories and friends. I was working and had to be there at 7:30 each morning, so I would wake the kids up about 6:50 each morning to give me just enough time to get them dressed and in the van. After only 4 days of this schedule (Ketchup was sick on Friday so we stayed home), they have been waking up at 6:50 each morning since (even on our sick day). I'm hoping they revert back to our nice schedule of waking up around 8:00 am. Here's for hoping I guess.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Bounce's new outfit
I finally found the perfect outfit for our little Bounce....
Instead of the riddler, Bounce's name will be The Questioner!
I need to attempt to count how many questions this little boy asks me in one day. Even as I type this he is asking me, "what is a blog?" Last week the question of the week was "How do you make a car?" I know he asked me this at least once a day. And you know how it goes, one answer just leads to another question.
His brain must be on hyper-speed when we get into the van because as soon as we get buckled the question start flying out of his mouth. And in between questions, he asks me to turn up the music just to have me turn it down again 3 seconds later so I can hear his next question.
When I met a friend for coffee the other day, she vented about something and apologized. I told her no apology needed because there was not one question I had to answer - I just had to listen. So if you see me and I don't answer your question, it's because I'm all answered out.
Instead of the riddler, Bounce's name will be The Questioner!
I need to attempt to count how many questions this little boy asks me in one day. Even as I type this he is asking me, "what is a blog?" Last week the question of the week was "How do you make a car?" I know he asked me this at least once a day. And you know how it goes, one answer just leads to another question.
His brain must be on hyper-speed when we get into the van because as soon as we get buckled the question start flying out of his mouth. And in between questions, he asks me to turn up the music just to have me turn it down again 3 seconds later so I can hear his next question.
When I met a friend for coffee the other day, she vented about something and apologized. I told her no apology needed because there was not one question I had to answer - I just had to listen. So if you see me and I don't answer your question, it's because I'm all answered out.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Our Latest Headlines
** Pull-ups Free! **
Bounce has graduated from wearing pull-ups at night. We have been all undies all the time for about a week and no wet beds in the morning. Can you hear me singing "Hallelujah, Hallelujah"?
** Mystery Solved **
Ketchup had lost her little blankie a few months ago. It just disappeared. Even after packing and cleaning to put the house on the market, I still couldn't find it. She hadn't really missed it, but I wanted to keep it for memories. About the last week, she had been asking for it and we made another fruitless search. She was in her room whining (not a big surprise there) one afternoon and pulled her jewelry box down from a small decorative shelf on the wall. Surprise - blankie was tucked inside! It was right above our noses the whole time.
** Little Fish **
After finally feeling better (what wonders antibiotics and rest can do!), I was able to join my family at the pool. In just the week and a half I was sick, my kids turned into fish. The last time I had taken them to the pool they wouldn't even put their face in the water to blow bubbles. Sunday afternoon they were both jumping into the water by themselves and would go under and come right back up. Bounce has a floatie suit that lets him swim around all by himself. Ketchup is the hit of the pool with her little barbell float. It was neat to see so much progress in such little time.
** Little Hips **
Ketchup is a hula-hoop master at age 5. This little girl has got talented hips. She can keep it spinning for a good minute. I just sit back and laugh in amazement. She reminds us that she is the only one in the whole family that can hula hoop. She can even spin it around her neck. And then she gracefully brings it off her leg. She stopped traffic the other day when she was doing it in the front yard.
Maybe Letterman is in her future - maybe not since we would never let her out of the house in that outfit.
Bounce has graduated from wearing pull-ups at night. We have been all undies all the time for about a week and no wet beds in the morning. Can you hear me singing "Hallelujah, Hallelujah"?
** Mystery Solved **
Ketchup had lost her little blankie a few months ago. It just disappeared. Even after packing and cleaning to put the house on the market, I still couldn't find it. She hadn't really missed it, but I wanted to keep it for memories. About the last week, she had been asking for it and we made another fruitless search. She was in her room whining (not a big surprise there) one afternoon and pulled her jewelry box down from a small decorative shelf on the wall. Surprise - blankie was tucked inside! It was right above our noses the whole time.
** Little Fish **
After finally feeling better (what wonders antibiotics and rest can do!), I was able to join my family at the pool. In just the week and a half I was sick, my kids turned into fish. The last time I had taken them to the pool they wouldn't even put their face in the water to blow bubbles. Sunday afternoon they were both jumping into the water by themselves and would go under and come right back up. Bounce has a floatie suit that lets him swim around all by himself. Ketchup is the hit of the pool with her little barbell float. It was neat to see so much progress in such little time.
** Little Hips **
Ketchup is a hula-hoop master at age 5. This little girl has got talented hips. She can keep it spinning for a good minute. I just sit back and laugh in amazement. She reminds us that she is the only one in the whole family that can hula hoop. She can even spin it around her neck. And then she gracefully brings it off her leg. She stopped traffic the other day when she was doing it in the front yard.
Maybe Letterman is in her future - maybe not since we would never let her out of the house in that outfit.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Does Daddy Know He's in Charge?
I've been feeling sick for almost a week now and it's all thanks to allergies. I thought it might be strep throat, but who knew that allergies could be so yucky. It's raining today, so maybe that will clear some things up along with the new meds I'm on.
Needless to say, the kids have had a lot of Daddy time over the past several days. They learned the first night he came home to sick mommy that I was happily relinquishing my role of keeper of the house and kids.
Ketchup: "Mommy, can I have some juice."
Mommy: "Daddy is in charge now. Go ask him."
Ketchup: "Does Daddy know he's in charge?"
Mommy: "I don't know. Go ask him." (Anyone noticing a theme here?)
Ketchup: runs off to ask Daddy and all too quickly returns, "Daddy wants to know what he is in charge of?"
Mommy: "Daddy is in charge of you and your brother, so go ask him for juice."
Ketchup: "OK"
and she leaves finally getting the point and I guess Daddy got it too because I got to rest in peace and quiet.
Daddy did a great job keeping up with the kids and thanks to their daily trips to the community pool, I think they may be expert swimmers by now.
For the few times when I did have to entertain them by myself, I learned a few couch-friendly
tricks: blowing bubbles with my gum, hitting a balloon up in the air to them, asking them lots of questions and of course a lot of TV (thank you Jon & Kate Plus 8 for entertaining my kids).
And then last night I had moved to my bed and Ketchup and I repeated history. We watched my favorite movie from when I was a kid together - E.T. She held on to my E.T. lunchbox and asked about a million questions, but she really seemed to like it. She also liked that she was able to stay up late with me because Bounce was a little scared and tired and had already gone to bed.
Despite Mommy being sick, the kids had a great time with Daddy in charge. Thank you to the best Daddy in the whole world!!
Needless to say, the kids have had a lot of Daddy time over the past several days. They learned the first night he came home to sick mommy that I was happily relinquishing my role of keeper of the house and kids.
Ketchup: "Mommy, can I have some juice."
Mommy: "Daddy is in charge now. Go ask him."
Ketchup: "Does Daddy know he's in charge?"
Mommy: "I don't know. Go ask him." (Anyone noticing a theme here?)
Ketchup: runs off to ask Daddy and all too quickly returns, "Daddy wants to know what he is in charge of?"
Mommy: "Daddy is in charge of you and your brother, so go ask him for juice."
Ketchup: "OK"
and she leaves finally getting the point and I guess Daddy got it too because I got to rest in peace and quiet.
Daddy did a great job keeping up with the kids and thanks to their daily trips to the community pool, I think they may be expert swimmers by now.
For the few times when I did have to entertain them by myself, I learned a few couch-friendly
tricks: blowing bubbles with my gum, hitting a balloon up in the air to them, asking them lots of questions and of course a lot of TV (thank you Jon & Kate Plus 8 for entertaining my kids).
And then last night I had moved to my bed and Ketchup and I repeated history. We watched my favorite movie from when I was a kid together - E.T. She held on to my E.T. lunchbox and asked about a million questions, but she really seemed to like it. She also liked that she was able to stay up late with me because Bounce was a little scared and tired and had already gone to bed.
Despite Mommy being sick, the kids had a great time with Daddy in charge. Thank you to the best Daddy in the whole world!!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Ketchup's new trick & AI Finale
Ketchup stopped me today and said "look, I can make the number one with a different finger." Well, you can probably guess which finger it was and no I didn't teach her this trick. Maybe she learned it from Daddy after his encounter with Misty.
I tried to keep a straight face and tell her "Yeah, I see, but the best finger to make a one is still your pointer finger." She seemed to go right along with it.
Speaking of right along with it....she was singing right along with all the songs on American Idol tonight. Although I think our (I brainwashed her) favorite David Cook will probably lose, it was a good show.
Ketchup was excited that the winner would make a CD. She also wanted to know why the stage looked smaller-that was a sign she's been paying too much attention! She also was concerned that once the show was over would it ever come on again and was relieved when I told her they would start all over next year. She'll probably be counting down the days.
I tried to keep a straight face and tell her "Yeah, I see, but the best finger to make a one is still your pointer finger." She seemed to go right along with it.
Speaking of right along with it....she was singing right along with all the songs on American Idol tonight. Although I think our (I brainwashed her) favorite David Cook will probably lose, it was a good show.
Ketchup was excited that the winner would make a CD. She also wanted to know why the stage looked smaller-that was a sign she's been paying too much attention! She also was concerned that once the show was over would it ever come on again and was relieved when I told her they would start all over next year. She'll probably be counting down the days.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Top 10 Highlights of our Vacation
Last week we were blessed to be on vacation in beautiful Arizona. Here are our top 10 highlights
10. It was a break from cleaning our house
9. Enjoying the yummy Tucson food (eegee's and Lucky Wishbone)
8. We all attempted to catch the 6 fish in the pond at my parent's house. Attempt is the key word.
7. Ketchup had her hair braided for the first time and has now discovered a new hair-do. In fact she has a hair full of braids tonight, so she can have that crimped look in the morning.
6. Bounce wrestled his little heart out.
5. Riding the quad and learning (or confirming as we already assumed) that Mommy is faster.
4. The kids learned to cross the pond all on their own despite the super cold water. They would tell you they swam across because they paddled their hands as they walked.
3. Bella, our dog, learned to swim and now hates our small fenced in yard compared to 40 acres.
2. Daddy survived a vicious dog attack - we will never name our dog Misty. (Misty might have been small but those super sharp teeth packed a mean bite).
1. Spending a wonderful, relaxing time with family.
10. It was a break from cleaning our house
9. Enjoying the yummy Tucson food (eegee's and Lucky Wishbone)
8. We all attempted to catch the 6 fish in the pond at my parent's house. Attempt is the key word.
7. Ketchup had her hair braided for the first time and has now discovered a new hair-do. In fact she has a hair full of braids tonight, so she can have that crimped look in the morning.
6. Bounce wrestled his little heart out.
5. Riding the quad and learning (or confirming as we already assumed) that Mommy is faster.
4. The kids learned to cross the pond all on their own despite the super cold water. They would tell you they swam across because they paddled their hands as they walked.
3. Bella, our dog, learned to swim and now hates our small fenced in yard compared to 40 acres.
2. Daddy survived a vicious dog attack - we will never name our dog Misty. (Misty might have been small but those super sharp teeth packed a mean bite).
1. Spending a wonderful, relaxing time with family.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Sing it like a singer
When I get tired of the kid songs, I like to play upbeat Christian music in the van. The kids have a new favorite CD, Addison Road, and they request their favorite songs and are quickly learning the words to sing a long. Bounce asks what every word means. I don't know how he understands each word, but he repeats the word he hears and wants to know what it means. Good thing it's Christian music!
Ketchup is the singer. She sings her little heart out. Then Bounce asked her to sing it like a real singer and that brought out all the serious facial expressions. I think I have American Idol to thank for her serious singer faces. Too bad I don't have a video camera hooked up to the rearview mirror to share these songs.
Here is the band's website if you want to sing along, just remember to sing it like a singer!
http://www.addisonroad.com/home.htm
Ketchup is the singer. She sings her little heart out. Then Bounce asked her to sing it like a real singer and that brought out all the serious facial expressions. I think I have American Idol to thank for her serious singer faces. Too bad I don't have a video camera hooked up to the rearview mirror to share these songs.
Here is the band's website if you want to sing along, just remember to sing it like a singer!
http://www.addisonroad.com/home.htm
Sunday, April 27, 2008
The Jacket
It was a little cool this weekend, so being the good mom that I am (or so I thought) I took jackets for the kids to church. Well, by the time we hiked all the way to the van after church, I realized I had forgotten both jackets. My wonderful husband and the kids march all the way back to retrieve them. What seemed like 15 minutes later they return empty-handed. Both jackets were gone. Here's the funny part. Bounce's jacket was new or new to us as is practically everything else we have. I had bought it last Saturday at a children's consignment sale. It was a nice tan Ralph Lauren jacket but I only paid $2 for it. However, I did not write his name in it (note to self - do that next time).
When Bounce's teacher saw the jacket on the counter and saw that it was a Ralph Lauren jacket, she did not assume it was Bounce's because why would a nursery worker's son have such an expensive jacket she thought. So both she and another teacher thought it was Pastor Graham's grandson's jacket because it was Ralph Lauren it had to be his, and since his Grandma picked him up, she didn't know if it was his or not. She probably thought well it's Ralph Lauren it has to be his, too.
So about every hour Bounce wants to know when he'll get his jacket back since he never even wore it. His teacher and I had a good laugh about the "expensive" jacket. We'll have to see if we get it back.
When Bounce's teacher saw the jacket on the counter and saw that it was a Ralph Lauren jacket, she did not assume it was Bounce's because why would a nursery worker's son have such an expensive jacket she thought. So both she and another teacher thought it was Pastor Graham's grandson's jacket because it was Ralph Lauren it had to be his, and since his Grandma picked him up, she didn't know if it was his or not. She probably thought well it's Ralph Lauren it has to be his, too.
So about every hour Bounce wants to know when he'll get his jacket back since he never even wore it. His teacher and I had a good laugh about the "expensive" jacket. We'll have to see if we get it back.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
"I Love It!"
Those were Ketchup's exact words as she went across the monkey bars for the first time today all by herself. Once she had it down, she did it several more times. Who wants to bet she won't be able to lift her arms tomorrow?
So if the showing today doesn't amount to much, at least it gave her time to learn a fantastic new life skill!
So if the showing today doesn't amount to much, at least it gave her time to learn a fantastic new life skill!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Finally - Spiderman!
We've been renting the Best of the Electric Company on DVD with the hopes that on each disk we would see Spiderman. The kids have been disappointed up until now. Today they finally saw him on disc three - third time is the charm I guess.
Despite not being able to see the superhero, they have enjoyed the shows and have been learning too, so I guess the wait has been well worth it. Despite being an "old" show, it can really hold their attention and I tell myself that it's good for them too.
It's funny to go back and look at shows I watched as a kid. I don't remember the skits, but I remember some of the songs. Bounce asks me after each skit, "did you watch that when you were little?" He is amazed at what we used to do and watch when we were kids. He loves the song "Stop in the name of Love" because that is what his Nana and Tata used to listen to.
The good old days - how f------ un f---- un f--- un f-un fun!
Despite not being able to see the superhero, they have enjoyed the shows and have been learning too, so I guess the wait has been well worth it. Despite being an "old" show, it can really hold their attention and I tell myself that it's good for them too.
It's funny to go back and look at shows I watched as a kid. I don't remember the skits, but I remember some of the songs. Bounce asks me after each skit, "did you watch that when you were little?" He is amazed at what we used to do and watch when we were kids. He loves the song "Stop in the name of Love" because that is what his Nana and Tata used to listen to.
The good old days - how f------ un f---- un f--- un f-un fun!
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Lesson learned (I hope)
(this may be a long read, sorry)
So I've kept the house pretty spotless for the few weeks it has been on the market. Everything ahs been pretty much under control. But we have had only one showing so far. Our open house was today, so yesterday I was cleaning even more so things would look extra perfect. I had just started cleaning the ceiling around the airvents. This made a mess as the little white specks of popcorn ceiling fell to the floor below. I knew this would happen so I had even moved the furniture out of the way so it wouldn't get messy. I thought I had it all planned out - under control.
Then the phone rang. I listened to the message stating that we had a showing scheduled from 1:30 - 2:00 pm. I looked at my watch and it was 1:45 pm. Panic mode set in. I was not in control. I started to run out the front door to tell Daddy, who was mowing, that we had people coming over. As I stepped out I saw the realtor's car out in front of the house. I'm sure they could see the look of disgust and panic on my face. Oh well. They came in and saw our house far from the "near perfect" condition that it is described as being in.
After they left I thought about how God knew they were coming. Why didn't He just give me a feeling to wait just 20 minutes before I started? Why didn't He distract me with something else so I wouldn't have had the house looking so out of sorts.
Well, I resorted to press on. I took control again and poured all my energy into cleaning. I was up until midnight and then up at 6am this morning to make things just right.
Then as I drove out of the neighborhood, I noticed a police car parked next to a fence off the main road through our neighborhood. In the biggest yellow letters possible there was a profane word spraypainted on the fence. Our neighborhood has never had graffiti until today. I wanted to cry. I had tried to make everything perfect, but I could not control everything.
Again I began to question God as to why today, why that. I continued driving and the CD in the car continued to play. Then I heard the following words in the song...
Even before there was a drop in the ocean even before there was a star in the sky even before
the world was put in motion You were on Your throne You were on Your throne.
[chorus]
You reign glory in the highest You reign let creation testify by Your name every knee will bow
and every tongue proclaim that Jesus reigns.
So I've kept the house pretty spotless for the few weeks it has been on the market. Everything ahs been pretty much under control. But we have had only one showing so far. Our open house was today, so yesterday I was cleaning even more so things would look extra perfect. I had just started cleaning the ceiling around the airvents. This made a mess as the little white specks of popcorn ceiling fell to the floor below. I knew this would happen so I had even moved the furniture out of the way so it wouldn't get messy. I thought I had it all planned out - under control.
Then the phone rang. I listened to the message stating that we had a showing scheduled from 1:30 - 2:00 pm. I looked at my watch and it was 1:45 pm. Panic mode set in. I was not in control. I started to run out the front door to tell Daddy, who was mowing, that we had people coming over. As I stepped out I saw the realtor's car out in front of the house. I'm sure they could see the look of disgust and panic on my face. Oh well. They came in and saw our house far from the "near perfect" condition that it is described as being in.
After they left I thought about how God knew they were coming. Why didn't He just give me a feeling to wait just 20 minutes before I started? Why didn't He distract me with something else so I wouldn't have had the house looking so out of sorts.
Well, I resorted to press on. I took control again and poured all my energy into cleaning. I was up until midnight and then up at 6am this morning to make things just right.
Then as I drove out of the neighborhood, I noticed a police car parked next to a fence off the main road through our neighborhood. In the biggest yellow letters possible there was a profane word spraypainted on the fence. Our neighborhood has never had graffiti until today. I wanted to cry. I had tried to make everything perfect, but I could not control everything.
Again I began to question God as to why today, why that. I continued driving and the CD in the car continued to play. Then I heard the following words in the song...
Even before there was a drop in the ocean even before there was a star in the sky even before
the world was put in motion You were on Your throne You were on Your throne.
[chorus]
You reign glory in the highest You reign let creation testify by Your name every knee will bow
and every tongue proclaim that Jesus reigns.
And you know that even before I had made such a mess of the house and another "bad guy" made such a mess of that fence - Jesus was seated on His throne. He reigns. He is in control.
I hope I get it now that I'm not in control and can't expect to control everything. In fact in spite of everything, not one single person came to the open house today. But you know what only one single person matters in this whole thing - that is Jesus Christ. He is in control and it is His power that holds everything together (Col. 1:17). That was the subject of our sermon at church last night. So do you think that God is shouting to me or what?
And since He is holding it (everything, the sale of our house, our car, our trip to Guatemala) together, I can stand steadfast and firm, strong in the Lord, not shifting from the HOPE in the Gospel (Col 1:23) (not in the hope of the sale of our house or the hope of a bigger, better house).
I hope that you have hope in the right thing too!
I hope I get it now that I'm not in control and can't expect to control everything. In fact in spite of everything, not one single person came to the open house today. But you know what only one single person matters in this whole thing - that is Jesus Christ. He is in control and it is His power that holds everything together (Col. 1:17). That was the subject of our sermon at church last night. So do you think that God is shouting to me or what?
And since He is holding it (everything, the sale of our house, our car, our trip to Guatemala) together, I can stand steadfast and firm, strong in the Lord, not shifting from the HOPE in the Gospel (Col 1:23) (not in the hope of the sale of our house or the hope of a bigger, better house).
I hope that you have hope in the right thing too!
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
The winner (by a mile) is.... & the return of normalcy
Good ol' buzz has gone on to greener pastures. Last week Daddy called our insurance agent to add our new car and adjust the insurance since we wouldn't really be keeping Buzz much longer. Well, the receptionist asked a lot of questions about Buzz. To make a long story short, her nephew who has just returned from the war in Iraq needed a car for college. The great news is that he is now driving the car and we were able to help out a young man who fought for our country.
So now we just need to sell the house although it's starting to feel like that will be much more of a marathon. Our open house is this Sunday, so we'll see how that goes. We watched a show last night where no one came to their open house, so we wonder if that was a warning. We'll keep you posted!
Life is getting back to normal. Who knew that a normal routine would be so welcome. We resumed school this week and I've had time to exercise rather than just clean and complete a house project.
I've gotta run now because there is a meltdown occurring in Ketchup's room because Spiderman won't marry Barbie - see we're back to normal!
So now we just need to sell the house although it's starting to feel like that will be much more of a marathon. Our open house is this Sunday, so we'll see how that goes. We watched a show last night where no one came to their open house, so we wonder if that was a warning. We'll keep you posted!
Life is getting back to normal. Who knew that a normal routine would be so welcome. We resumed school this week and I've had time to exercise rather than just clean and complete a house project.
I've gotta run now because there is a meltdown occurring in Ketchup's room because Spiderman won't marry Barbie - see we're back to normal!
Friday, April 04, 2008
Bye-bye buzz - hello whitey!
Well, it was totally a God thing and Daddy now has a nice "new" car to drive. It's a white Camry, super clean and super quiet! I can actually hear Daddy now on his cell when he's driving.
So that means that our little "buzz" has to go; we are not only selling our house but our car as well. We'll have to see which sells first. Maybe they can race each other to the selling line.
Ketchup also had a fantastic soccer game last night. It was her team's most competitive game and it was fun to watch. Ketchup sported a serious game face a couple times when she was determined not to let her opponent beat her to the ball. She scored one of their three goals in a tight 3-2 win. She had fun and we have fun watching her.
So that means that our little "buzz" has to go; we are not only selling our house but our car as well. We'll have to see which sells first. Maybe they can race each other to the selling line.
Ketchup also had a fantastic soccer game last night. It was her team's most competitive game and it was fun to watch. Ketchup sported a serious game face a couple times when she was determined not to let her opponent beat her to the ball. She scored one of their three goals in a tight 3-2 win. She had fun and we have fun watching her.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Likely story (bad guys part 2)
Since we've been busy getting the house ready to list, Daddy hasn't had a chance to repair our stylin' car w/ keyless entry and keyless startup. That means I had my first "thief" tutorial this weekend so that I could start the car w/ our handy screwdriver and drive to work Sunday.
I was assured since I was a quick learner (maybe I'm not as innocent as I seem :-)) that I would be fine and have no problems.
Well, I was off and running early Sunday morning. I had even remembered my IPOD since our radio is now a big black hole in the dash. I was jammin to "You are God Alone" singing along that God is on His throne through the good times and bad (good thing because I was just about to get to the bad part) and I stopped at a red light at a major intersection. I was the first car in the center lane and then the engine died. I'm thinking "don't panic," so I pulled out the screwdriver to turn the car off and try to start it up again. That didn't work. I am in the worst place possible so I turn on the hazards and call 911. What seemed like half an hour later (more like a super long 10 min.), I see the wonderful flashing lights behind me. This is maybe the only time I've been glad to see those bright lights in my rearview mirror.
My next dilemma is about to begin as the cop walks up and I have to try to explain why I'm driving a car w/ no ignition and using a screwdriver for a key.
Despite my worry, he was very kind and I must have either looked innocent or too scared to have actually been the "bad guy" and he laughed about my having to drive that way.
Long story short, our little "buzz" is in the shop again and we went to look at a "new to us" car yesterday.
I was assured since I was a quick learner (maybe I'm not as innocent as I seem :-)) that I would be fine and have no problems.
Well, I was off and running early Sunday morning. I had even remembered my IPOD since our radio is now a big black hole in the dash. I was jammin to "You are God Alone" singing along that God is on His throne through the good times and bad (good thing because I was just about to get to the bad part) and I stopped at a red light at a major intersection. I was the first car in the center lane and then the engine died. I'm thinking "don't panic," so I pulled out the screwdriver to turn the car off and try to start it up again. That didn't work. I am in the worst place possible so I turn on the hazards and call 911. What seemed like half an hour later (more like a super long 10 min.), I see the wonderful flashing lights behind me. This is maybe the only time I've been glad to see those bright lights in my rearview mirror.
My next dilemma is about to begin as the cop walks up and I have to try to explain why I'm driving a car w/ no ignition and using a screwdriver for a key.
Despite my worry, he was very kind and I must have either looked innocent or too scared to have actually been the "bad guy" and he laughed about my having to drive that way.
Long story short, our little "buzz" is in the shop again and we went to look at a "new to us" car yesterday.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Bad Guys
Today I answered the phone to hear the words ...."This is 'so and so' with the Dallas Police Department...." Those are never good words to hear. Well, the bad guys struck and broke into Daddy's car at work. They broke the ignition and stole the radio. They drove the car from the first floor of the garage to the sixth floor.
We are ready to get rid of the car anyways, so I wonder why they just didn't take it. Come to think of it the car is so LOUD (Ketchup and I unaffectionately call it Buzz because it sounds like a giant bee), they couldn't have snuck away with it so they gave up.
Daddy just told me that another good thing is that the cd I had just given him for Easter was not in the car because I took it out to put it on Itunes. The other cd's in the car were sermons on the holiness of God. Too bad they didn't take those; they could have used them.
We are ready to get rid of the car anyways, so I wonder why they just didn't take it. Come to think of it the car is so LOUD (Ketchup and I unaffectionately call it Buzz because it sounds like a giant bee), they couldn't have snuck away with it so they gave up.
Daddy just told me that another good thing is that the cd I had just given him for Easter was not in the car because I took it out to put it on Itunes. The other cd's in the car were sermons on the holiness of God. Too bad they didn't take those; they could have used them.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
The dreaded words....
We went at lunch today at McDonalds (our normal Wed. routine), and I asked Ketchup if she played on the playground outside or inside at church. I was not prepared for the words I heard next.
"Me and a boy played boyfriend and girlfriend on the outside playground."
Oh, I can feel the knife in my heart as I type this. Boyfriend & Girlfriend- eeck!
I tried to calmly find out more about this "game" as my mind started racing to her wedding day (ok, I'm exaggerating a little:-)) She said she doesn't remember his name (oh, no!), but can remember what he looks like. He has blond hair and the last time he was there, he wanted to play this game with her. I asked if there were other "girlfriends" and she said she was the only one. She said today she planted flowers for his birthday. I guess that can't be all bad.
If I'm not posting as often (like I did anyway), it's because we're putting our house on the market. We would love to be closer to daddy's work and our church. Less time in the car equals less money on gas and tolls. God willing, we can sell quickly and get back to a normal life. Until then, we have to have a clean and clutterfree house. Needless to say, I'll be busy around the house for a while.
This is a picture of what the kids were doing as I blogged. They're going to hate it when I have to pack up some of their toys. Now they have proof of which ones they might be missing.
"Me and a boy played boyfriend and girlfriend on the outside playground."
Oh, I can feel the knife in my heart as I type this. Boyfriend & Girlfriend- eeck!
I tried to calmly find out more about this "game" as my mind started racing to her wedding day (ok, I'm exaggerating a little:-)) She said she doesn't remember his name (oh, no!), but can remember what he looks like. He has blond hair and the last time he was there, he wanted to play this game with her. I asked if there were other "girlfriends" and she said she was the only one. She said today she planted flowers for his birthday. I guess that can't be all bad.
If I'm not posting as often (like I did anyway), it's because we're putting our house on the market. We would love to be closer to daddy's work and our church. Less time in the car equals less money on gas and tolls. God willing, we can sell quickly and get back to a normal life. Until then, we have to have a clean and clutterfree house. Needless to say, I'll be busy around the house for a while.
This is a picture of what the kids were doing as I blogged. They're going to hate it when I have to pack up some of their toys. Now they have proof of which ones they might be missing.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Meet our new family members!
SnowKetchup and SnowBounce. They joined our family yesterday, but have just about melted completely now. We had lots of fun in the snow. We got about 4 inches of really nice thick snow. Winter isn't bad when you just have it for about a day and a half. I can't imagine having to bundle kids up like that every day for a few months.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Snow!
We were supposed to be studying plants this week in school and take a field trip to the arboretum, but this is Texas. That means that it did not snow one flake all winter long and this week it has snowed twice (each time on soccer practice night - thank you God!). There are big, fluffy flakes falling as I type. So we will be studying the fine art of snowman making tomorrow. Hopefully, I'll have some good pics to share.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
A Tale of Two Teams
Since we have 2 soccer players, the past two Saturdays have been soccer filled. The difference between Ketchup's team and Bounce's team is striking. Ketchup's team is the one scoring all the goals and every player is interested in playing and does a great job. Bounce's team is much younger and is the team being scored on most of the game. The coach is often just looking for a player who isn't crying and who wants to play. Bounce was a "cryer" the first game, but since has improved so much. He is excited to go in and play and actually played a large portion of the game today. We are proud that he didn't quit. He is so much smaller than most of the boys (who are older) that he does well to keep up.
Ketchup had a great game and scored 2 goals. She is very fast (her long legs help a lot) and often breaks away from the rest of the players to score. Today we were proud that she was a great teammate and didn't take the ball away from her teammate as they both ran down the field to score.
It is interesting to experience both sides of the game: the dominating team and the team just trying to play and learn the game. Regardless of the score, they both had smiles at the end of their games and were happy to devour their snacks!
Ketchup had a great game and scored 2 goals. She is very fast (her long legs help a lot) and often breaks away from the rest of the players to score. Today we were proud that she was a great teammate and didn't take the ball away from her teammate as they both ran down the field to score.
It is interesting to experience both sides of the game: the dominating team and the team just trying to play and learn the game. Regardless of the score, they both had smiles at the end of their games and were happy to devour their snacks!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Our museum
Yesterday Ketchup was drawing on the white board and asked me how she could put her artwork in a museum. She was disappointed when I explained that you have to be asked by the museum, but then I suggested she could make her own museum somewhere in the house. This idea was the hit of the year! Both kids plotted and planned how to organize their museum and what they would put in it.
They never want to sleep together, but last night they wanted to so that they could wake each other up early to open their museum bright and early in the morning. After one hour of talking, I had them go to their own beds to get some rest. Ketchup explained that they were only talking about the museum, so I should have let them stay in the same bed. I told her that if she didn't go to sleep, she wouldn't be able to wake up in the morning to open the museum. Minutes later, both kids were asleep.
I should have gone straight to sleep, too because they were both up bright and early this morning moving their "art" into the room. (By the way, Ketchup kept telling Bounce as he was doing his art that "It's OK to scribble-scrabble because it's just art.")
The big moment finally arrived, and I was invited to be the first guest at the museum. They each had a picture (Bounce-first pic & Ketchup-second), and they had Sandman there to be a sculpture to show what "bones really feel like." This was by far my most memorable trip to a museum. Hope you enjoy the pics.
They never want to sleep together, but last night they wanted to so that they could wake each other up early to open their museum bright and early in the morning. After one hour of talking, I had them go to their own beds to get some rest. Ketchup explained that they were only talking about the museum, so I should have let them stay in the same bed. I told her that if she didn't go to sleep, she wouldn't be able to wake up in the morning to open the museum. Minutes later, both kids were asleep.
I should have gone straight to sleep, too because they were both up bright and early this morning moving their "art" into the room. (By the way, Ketchup kept telling Bounce as he was doing his art that "It's OK to scribble-scrabble because it's just art.")
The big moment finally arrived, and I was invited to be the first guest at the museum. They each had a picture (Bounce-first pic & Ketchup-second), and they had Sandman there to be a sculpture to show what "bones really feel like." This was by far my most memorable trip to a museum. Hope you enjoy the pics.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Our newest soccer player
The kids are busy playing, so I thought I'd steal a few moments to update our blog. Bounce is now a soccer player too. He is on the Pirates soccer team and he thinks that is pretty cool. He had his first practice on Monday and was tired and eager to stop, but he got a second wind when he got to play "Star Wars" (a soccer drill in disguise). After practice I asked him what his favorite part was and he said it was getting the goodie bag filled w/ candy at the end of practice. That's my boy-the reward at the end is the best part!
He was so tired that whenever he wasn't doing anything, he was the first one to sit on his ball. He's got that skill down really well! The Pirates actually have 2 games this Sat., so we'll see if our little Bounce has enough energy to keep up or not.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Transportation
Last week we studied transportation, so I thought this would be a good opportunity to take a field trip using public transportation. We took the lite rail to the train to the bus which ultimately took us to the Fort Worth Stock Show. The kids had a lot of fun riding the trains and bus and Mommy and Daddy actually enjoyed relaxing for a while instead of fighting traffic. The relaxing was quickly replaced by a lesson in patience. A trip that normally would have taken a little over an hour took 3 hours. That's right - 3 hours of public transportation and that is just one way. Needless to say we only spent a few hours at the stock show. We still were able to see a baby chick hatching from its egg among numerous other animals.
The kids did have fun and I was sure glad when we finally made it back to our van, put the kids in their reclined seats and drive off on my own schedule as the kids quickly fell asleep. Ahhh-that is relaxation!
Speaking of the van, we were in a car accident yesterday and thank God are all fine. My airbag deployed, so we need to have the van put in the shop. We picked up our rental van last night and as soon as I pulled out of the parking lot, Bounce started saying "Don't bump, don't bump." He was worried I was going to "bump" into another car with our "new van."
All in all we have had several lessons in transportation over the past week and I am glad to be sitting at home not having to use ANY transportation at this moment!
The kids did have fun and I was sure glad when we finally made it back to our van, put the kids in their reclined seats and drive off on my own schedule as the kids quickly fell asleep. Ahhh-that is relaxation!
Speaking of the van, we were in a car accident yesterday and thank God are all fine. My airbag deployed, so we need to have the van put in the shop. We picked up our rental van last night and as soon as I pulled out of the parking lot, Bounce started saying "Don't bump, don't bump." He was worried I was going to "bump" into another car with our "new van."
All in all we have had several lessons in transportation over the past week and I am glad to be sitting at home not having to use ANY transportation at this moment!
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Rainbow Brite
I can't believe it's been that long since I posted last. Anyways, I think we might have to change Ketchup's name to Rainbow Brite. She thinks that she has to have every color in one outfit. I mainly let her get away with this at home or for bed, but if you ever see us out and wonder what was I thinking letting her dress so ridiculously, well I just couldn't break her little stylin' heart. The other night she was so proud of her purple pants, yellow long sleeve shirt with a pink nightgown on top. She was excited she had so many colors in one outfit.
Tonight she started soccer practice again. I bundled her up and then Bounce and I sat in the van and watched. It was so cold outside, but she said she didn't feel it because she kept all of her clothes on. This time I was the one who dressed her up in countless layers of various rainbow colors, not for style but for warmth. No wonder the poor girl is so confused why mommy lets her wear these rainbow brite outfits one day and not the next.
Tonight she started soccer practice again. I bundled her up and then Bounce and I sat in the van and watched. It was so cold outside, but she said she didn't feel it because she kept all of her clothes on. This time I was the one who dressed her up in countless layers of various rainbow colors, not for style but for warmth. No wonder the poor girl is so confused why mommy lets her wear these rainbow brite outfits one day and not the next.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Thank God!
Way back in the '80's Amy Grant had this song that I would listen to . I can't even remember what the name is or even the exact wording of the verse, but in the song she sings that she is not aware of how she has been protected while driving. She alludes to God keeping from her a dangerous accident that she had no idea she even avoided.
Today we almost had one of those near accidents. We have been learning about the letter "P" for pillow and reading different bedtime stories, poems, and legends, etc. Our project for the week was to make pillows (the no-sew fleece type). I was sitting on the floor today working on cutting the fleece and just as I brought up my scissors to start cutting another strip, Bounce jumps falls head first on me so that I can hold him. The scissors hit him right in head. He cried out of pain, I wanted to cry out of horror and then when I saw he was OK (I really thought he was stabbed in the eye) , I wanted to cry out of thanksgiving because he barely has a scratch on his forehead.
Less than 2 inches and what a different story it would be. I am so thankful that God already knew what would happen and protected his little eye.
So now whenever I look at his pillow, I will be thankful for God's protection.
btw...I think the song is "Angels watching over me"
Today we almost had one of those near accidents. We have been learning about the letter "P" for pillow and reading different bedtime stories, poems, and legends, etc. Our project for the week was to make pillows (the no-sew fleece type). I was sitting on the floor today working on cutting the fleece and just as I brought up my scissors to start cutting another strip, Bounce jumps falls head first on me so that I can hold him. The scissors hit him right in head. He cried out of pain, I wanted to cry out of horror and then when I saw he was OK (I really thought he was stabbed in the eye) , I wanted to cry out of thanksgiving because he barely has a scratch on his forehead.
Less than 2 inches and what a different story it would be. I am so thankful that God already knew what would happen and protected his little eye.
So now whenever I look at his pillow, I will be thankful for God's protection.
btw...I think the song is "Angels watching over me"
Thursday, January 10, 2008
The Fat Glove
We've been studying winter and snow this week although the kids are probably wondering if snow really exists since we hardly ever see any around here. Today we did this cool experiment to illustrate how the layer of fat in arctic animals protects them from the cold. We put shortening in between two zip-lock bags to make a "glove of fat." We then put our hands in the glove and submerged it in ice water. It was incredible how insulated our hands were. Too bad that my "body glove" is not that useful.
Then tonight as I was driving home (and thinking way too much due to forgetting to say decaf on my starbucks order at 8pm) I realized that the verse I wrote down this week to memorize reminded me of the glove. Romans 13:14 says "but put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires." I know I am supposed to put on Christ, but I hadn't really thought about that protecting me, but much like that glove, when I am clothed in Him and making no provision for my flesh to take over, then I am protected from getting into some really treacherous sinful situations.
So I now understand polar bears and this verse a lot better. Just thought I'd share.
Then tonight as I was driving home (and thinking way too much due to forgetting to say decaf on my starbucks order at 8pm) I realized that the verse I wrote down this week to memorize reminded me of the glove. Romans 13:14 says "but put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires." I know I am supposed to put on Christ, but I hadn't really thought about that protecting me, but much like that glove, when I am clothed in Him and making no provision for my flesh to take over, then I am protected from getting into some really treacherous sinful situations.
So I now understand polar bears and this verse a lot better. Just thought I'd share.
Monday, January 07, 2008
Reality Check
Sat. night I had the great opportunity to go to a Christian rock concert with two friends. We had fantastic 2nd row seats and a great time. The band was Leeland if you're interested; they're great. We were probably the only ones in there (besides the band's parents) over the age of 25. We felt pretty cool; we're hip for our age right?
The reality check came Sunday night as I was pulling coupons out of the newspapers. I was so excited that there were 6 coupon inserts in this weeks paper and then I had 4 papers. That is a lot of coupons. Then I started to think that I must be so NOT COOL to be this excited about coupons. Oh well.
If you are interested in starting to use coupons, this week's paper is a great starting point. I also recommend the Grocery Game because it makes it so easy to do.
At least this uncool mom will be saving us some serious money (free peanut butter and soap)!
The reality check came Sunday night as I was pulling coupons out of the newspapers. I was so excited that there were 6 coupon inserts in this weeks paper and then I had 4 papers. That is a lot of coupons. Then I started to think that I must be so NOT COOL to be this excited about coupons. Oh well.
If you are interested in starting to use coupons, this week's paper is a great starting point. I also recommend the Grocery Game because it makes it so easy to do.
At least this uncool mom will be saving us some serious money (free peanut butter and soap)!
Monday, December 31, 2007
New Year's End Shout Out
We received a thank-you call from a ministry that we support today. It was a blessing to hear of how God is working through this ministry. It reminded me of all that God has done for me and my family this year, so I thought I would just give a shout-out to God for His goodness and mercy in 2007.
What I'm thankful for:
What I'm thankful for:
- both Ketchup and Bounce learned how to snap their fingers (he did just today!)
- my "new" ipod that helps me clean, dance and sing praise all at the same time
- our new floors in the house that look fantastic
- the freedom to homeschool and so many fantastic resources available to do so
- family and friends who make life fun and help make burdens lighter
- a wonderful husband who can "fix anything" and fixed our floors along with being a fantastic daddy.
- two precious children who bring so much joy to our family
- our country and the soldiers and leaders who protect our freedom
- a wonderful God who is always acting to accomplish His good, pleasing and perfect will even if I do not understand why or how (Is. 55:8-9)
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Newest Christmas Carol
We've been singing Christmas Carols at bedtime and last night we sang "O Come all ye Faithful." As we were walking off to bed, Bounce continued to sing. His song, however, was a little different...."O come muddy faithful...."
The kids are becoming very excited for Christmas. I think we've answered about 1,000 different questions about Santa. They are concerned because we now have our dog Bella and they don't want Santa to be scared of her and leave. They also don't want Santa to leave because Nana & Tata will be staying with us on Christmas Eve. Bounce has decided that he is now 3 years old and is brave enough to see Santa, although he begins to panic everytime he hears sirens (he thinks Santa is coming around again on top of the firetruck).
Hope your Christmas is as fun-filled as ours!
The kids are becoming very excited for Christmas. I think we've answered about 1,000 different questions about Santa. They are concerned because we now have our dog Bella and they don't want Santa to be scared of her and leave. They also don't want Santa to leave because Nana & Tata will be staying with us on Christmas Eve. Bounce has decided that he is now 3 years old and is brave enough to see Santa, although he begins to panic everytime he hears sirens (he thinks Santa is coming around again on top of the firetruck).
Hope your Christmas is as fun-filled as ours!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
World Record
Bounce set a world record tonight for a 3 year old in the 25 yard dash.
Every year our town has Santa ride through the neighborhoods on top of a fire truck. He passes out candy to the kids who come out of their homes to greet him. These would be normal kids. Our children are not normal. Bounce found out Santa was coming and ran at world record speed. At first I thought he was running to the front door with excitement, but then Bounce turned the corner. He was running to the back of the house out of fear. We found him hiding under the covers in our bed. Both kids were crying that they didn't want to see Santa. They said they still wanted presents, but they do NOT want to see him. At least this saves us from waiting for an hour in line for a picture with Mr. C.
Every year our town has Santa ride through the neighborhoods on top of a fire truck. He passes out candy to the kids who come out of their homes to greet him. These would be normal kids. Our children are not normal. Bounce found out Santa was coming and ran at world record speed. At first I thought he was running to the front door with excitement, but then Bounce turned the corner. He was running to the back of the house out of fear. We found him hiding under the covers in our bed. Both kids were crying that they didn't want to see Santa. They said they still wanted presents, but they do NOT want to see him. At least this saves us from waiting for an hour in line for a picture with Mr. C.
A good reminder
I often have to remind Ketchup not to whine or complain, but I often fail to remind myself. My grandmother sent me this e-mail and I thought it was a good reminder at this time of year. I could have used while I was waiting in line for 20 min. the other day at the store.
Letter from Jesus about Christmas --
Dear Children,
It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are
taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't
actually born during this time of the year and that it was some of your
predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a
time of pagan festival. Although I do appreciate being remembered anytime.
How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily
understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your
own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My
birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in
which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get
rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene
on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be
any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many
of them all around town.
Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday
tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can
remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish:
I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in
relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten
that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.
If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my
wish list. Choose something from it:
1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday
is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away
from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I
know, they tell Me all the time.
2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them
personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.
3. Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards
his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that
you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It
will be nice hearing from you again.
4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and
they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth,
and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and
remind them that I love them.
5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.
6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own
life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you
don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm
smile; it could make the difference.
7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the
holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm
smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry
Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop
shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that
day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with
their families
8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary--
especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never
heard My name.
9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your
town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they
have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some
food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other
charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.
10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and
loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret
that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions
that you are one of mine.
Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do
what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out
the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the
ball is now in your court.
And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and
remember: I LOVE YOU,
JESUS
Letter from Jesus about Christmas --
Dear Children,
It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are
taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't
actually born during this time of the year and that it was some of your
predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a
time of pagan festival. Although I do appreciate being remembered anytime.
How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily
understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your
own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My
birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in
which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get
rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene
on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be
any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many
of them all around town.
Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday
tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can
remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish:
I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in
relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten
that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.
If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my
wish list. Choose something from it:
1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday
is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away
from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I
know, they tell Me all the time.
2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them
personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.
3. Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards
his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that
you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It
will be nice hearing from you again.
4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and
they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth,
and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and
remind them that I love them.
5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.
6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own
life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you
don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm
smile; it could make the difference.
7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the
holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm
smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry
Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop
shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that
day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with
their families
8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary--
especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never
heard My name.
9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your
town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they
have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some
food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other
charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.
10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and
loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret
that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions
that you are one of mine.
Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do
what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out
the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the
ball is now in your court.
And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and
remember: I LOVE YOU,
JESUS
Friday, December 07, 2007
Christmas Happenings
We are finally decorated for Christmas with a clean house and new floors!! It is a beautiful day today, more like September than December.
One of my favorite things about Christmas at our house is listening to the kids as they play with the nativity set. To recount all the silly little things they say would fill pages, but it is cute to hear them discuss whether or not it is OK for Joseph to be the bad guy. Yesterday, Ketchup was playing by herself and it sounded more like a sermon than play as she kept telling all the characters that they were supposed to "worship the Lord." I'll probably share more quotes in the days to come.
Today, Bounce came running into my room yelling "Mommy, look at all the stickers I have on me." Well, my back was turned to him and I excitedly agreed until I turned around and saw that his "stickers" were our Christmas card stamps. I tried to salvage them as best I could, but if you get a card from us that has the stamp taped on, you will understand why :-)
One of my favorite things about Christmas at our house is listening to the kids as they play with the nativity set. To recount all the silly little things they say would fill pages, but it is cute to hear them discuss whether or not it is OK for Joseph to be the bad guy. Yesterday, Ketchup was playing by herself and it sounded more like a sermon than play as she kept telling all the characters that they were supposed to "worship the Lord." I'll probably share more quotes in the days to come.
Today, Bounce came running into my room yelling "Mommy, look at all the stickers I have on me." Well, my back was turned to him and I excitedly agreed until I turned around and saw that his "stickers" were our Christmas card stamps. I tried to salvage them as best I could, but if you get a card from us that has the stamp taped on, you will understand why :-)
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Halfway There and New Feet
I apologize for the delay in posting. It has been a little crazy here since before Thanksgiving and I'm trying to catch up on things this week and I'm only halfway done. I've done the laundry but only halfway as it still sits in baskets waiting to be put away. Only half the house is clean as I am having to REALLY clean up from all the dust our flooring project has created. Finally, only half of the Christmas tree is decorated (this is priority number one on the kids to do list). I think I've lost half of my brain in the middle of all this mess. Soon (hopefully by Sunday) our house will return to normal mode as Daddy only has to finish the floor in the last half of the family room and then we're done!!
One quick funny story. While we were visiting Daddy's side of the family at Thanksgiving, Ketchup had a birthday and is now five. I asked her the day before her birthday if she thought she would look different the next day (like a five year old rather than a four year old) because of the remark she made about her brother still looking like a two year old. She said she would look different. So the next morning she woke up and came right over to me instead of the mirror. She asked me to measure her feet to see if they were big five year old feet now. Well, what do you know they had grown overnight, and she had new five year old feet to go with the big five year old girl!
One quick funny story. While we were visiting Daddy's side of the family at Thanksgiving, Ketchup had a birthday and is now five. I asked her the day before her birthday if she thought she would look different the next day (like a five year old rather than a four year old) because of the remark she made about her brother still looking like a two year old. She said she would look different. So the next morning she woke up and came right over to me instead of the mirror. She asked me to measure her feet to see if they were big five year old feet now. Well, what do you know they had grown overnight, and she had new five year old feet to go with the big five year old girl!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Naptime Psychology
The good days of daily naptime have left our family. We now have an hour of rest time every day in which the kids have to stay in their rooms and read (20 min), play by themselves (20 min) and then play with each other (20 min). This seems to work well enough most days, but then there are those times when a nap is necessary. In order to get them to both sleep we have to all lay down together in mommy and daddy's bed so I can keep them both contained and increasingly quiet so that they will actually fall asleep.
Yesterday was one of those days. As I struggled with them to get them to go to sleep, I noticed that there are several stages they go through before the precious quietness of sleep reigns in our house. I thought I'd share:
Stage 1 - Bargaining - I have already given the countdown to taking a nap and yet they still try to negotiate for more time. "Just one more minute (translation-maybe if we keep playing she'll forget about the nap)." Didn't work, so we move on to the next phase.
Stage 2 - Denial - I'm sure if you were outside our house yesterday, this stage would have been very evident by the screams and cries of "NOOOOO" coming from both kids. I don't know why they think this will change my mind; it just convinces me even more how tired they are.
Stage 3 - Bargaining part 2 - They try to convince me that they are dying of thirst or hunger and if they could just get a drink or a snack then they will go to sleep. I also thought about calling this the guilt trip phase because they act like I'm torturing them by not letting them get that life-sustaining drink that they didn't need just 10 minutes ago. Then again maybe they are thirsty from all that screaming, but they still had to wait.
Stage 4 - Blameshifting - This is Ketchup's area of expertise. She will lay really still for a while as her brother sings and moves around and then she will sit up and blame him for waking her up. She thinks that I'll fall for it and let her get up since she supposedly already took a nap.
Stage 5 - Physical Resistance - Both kids will do anything to keep themselves awake. They might kick their legs up and down or wiggle their fingers in some type of repetitive way. This is the stage I look forward to because I know that soon after those crazy leg kicks or finger games that we will finally reach the all important Stage 6....
Sleep! Finally it is still and quiet.
I guess I forgot that there is usually a stage 7 where mommy tries as quietly and slowly as possible to get out of the bed without waking them up so that I can enjoy these few precious moments.
Yesterday was one of those days. As I struggled with them to get them to go to sleep, I noticed that there are several stages they go through before the precious quietness of sleep reigns in our house. I thought I'd share:
Stage 1 - Bargaining - I have already given the countdown to taking a nap and yet they still try to negotiate for more time. "Just one more minute (translation-maybe if we keep playing she'll forget about the nap)." Didn't work, so we move on to the next phase.
Stage 2 - Denial - I'm sure if you were outside our house yesterday, this stage would have been very evident by the screams and cries of "NOOOOO" coming from both kids. I don't know why they think this will change my mind; it just convinces me even more how tired they are.
Stage 3 - Bargaining part 2 - They try to convince me that they are dying of thirst or hunger and if they could just get a drink or a snack then they will go to sleep. I also thought about calling this the guilt trip phase because they act like I'm torturing them by not letting them get that life-sustaining drink that they didn't need just 10 minutes ago. Then again maybe they are thirsty from all that screaming, but they still had to wait.
Stage 4 - Blameshifting - This is Ketchup's area of expertise. She will lay really still for a while as her brother sings and moves around and then she will sit up and blame him for waking her up. She thinks that I'll fall for it and let her get up since she supposedly already took a nap.
Stage 5 - Physical Resistance - Both kids will do anything to keep themselves awake. They might kick their legs up and down or wiggle their fingers in some type of repetitive way. This is the stage I look forward to because I know that soon after those crazy leg kicks or finger games that we will finally reach the all important Stage 6....
Sleep! Finally it is still and quiet.
I guess I forgot that there is usually a stage 7 where mommy tries as quietly and slowly as possible to get out of the bed without waking them up so that I can enjoy these few precious moments.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Big Fun!!!!
Ketchup and Bounce had their birthday party today at bounce house place here in town. They had a wonderful time. When I asked Bounce tonight if he had fun, he said "Big fun, mommy." That is a good answer. He then went on to clarify that I only had "little fun" because I didn't go down the slide. I may not have gone on the slide, but I did have fun because I didn't have to cook or clean. That is my kind of party!
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Another reason why we homeschool....
Some days school does not go so well and they may not learn as much as I like, but the time that Ketchup and Bounce spend together is a blessing. I have been told on multiple occasions how well they play together. Right now they are sitting together on the same chair watching Veggietales. This is a good moment. They do have their moments of fighting and selfishness (like their mommy sad to say), but overall, they love each other and get along great. In fact, the other day Bounce gave his big sister a big hug and told her "You're my best friend."
I know this will probably not last forever, but for now I will enjoy these sweet moments. We are studying family and Thanksgiving this week and next and I am blessed to have such a wonderful family and sweet children who love each other so much.
I know this will probably not last forever, but for now I will enjoy these sweet moments. We are studying family and Thanksgiving this week and next and I am blessed to have such a wonderful family and sweet children who love each other so much.
Saturday, November 03, 2007
"But he still looks two"
Bounce turned 3 yesterday. Hard to believe that he is already three, but I'm trying to use that to my advantage by telling him that he is three now, he can't whine like a two year old.
Ketchup was a little confused that "he still looked two". How could he be three when he still looked the same to her.
Daddy and I listened as they were playing with some of his new toys last night and thought this was so cute, so I'll recount it for you.
K: You have to go save the world (her toy to his spiderman toy)
B: I don't want to.
K: Well then who is going to save the world then?
B: God will save the world.
Ketchup was a little confused that "he still looked two". How could he be three when he still looked the same to her.
Daddy and I listened as they were playing with some of his new toys last night and thought this was so cute, so I'll recount it for you.
K: You have to go save the world (her toy to his spiderman toy)
B: I don't want to.
K: Well then who is going to save the world then?
B: God will save the world.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)