Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Merry Christmas 2009 !!
Happy holidays from our crew to yours! May your Christmas be full of peace and joy, and your new year filled with blessings! (((Hugs)))
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Making a house a home. (safely)
I have been using a company's products for 7 years now. Melaleuca.(yes you can google that) I just wanted to share a teensey about what WE have experienced with their products. First, I will say I HATE selling things. So don't think I am. lol really and honestly. I am simply sharing because right at this moment I am sitting here with cotton in my ears trying to fight off what I assume to be an ear infection beginning. To do this, I use a product of theirs. Tea tree oil!! The home remedy for ear infections is so easy and it really has saved us so much money and of course kept the kids from so many antibiotics.
(use a children's medicine measuring cup or other tiny container)
mix :
a few drops of olive oil
a few drops of hot water
a few drops of tea tree oil
* then dab a cotton ball in the mix until it is soaked. Squeeze it out well. Then put in ear(you may have to tear it in half before dipping)
Do this as much as possible and especially at bedtime. Do this at first sign of ear ache if possible. This will kill infection and heal the ear. If you have a full blown ear infection, be sure to squeeze the cotton ball well, because it may sting if the ear is really inflamed. I have had to wait until kids were asleep to put theirs in sometimes.
Aside from their top grade tea tree oil, this company sells home cleaning products that are safe, and non-toxic laundry and dish care. They have the BEST laundry stuff. Really. If you look at their prices though, it may seem expensive, but their stuff is super concentrated. I use 1 TABLESPOON in a large load of clothes and they are super clean. I once got ink out of a new quilt(pale pink quilt) by using their stain treatment and then detergent.
They have safe body care products. Beauty products. PET products. Diet products. dish care products, Nutrition etc. I have to share about their vitamins. I was super anemic after having my third baby. I had colon problems that we could not get a clear diagnosis on. My liver tests were elevated to hundreds of times what they ought to have been. My Dr wanted me to have a full blood transfusion. They gave me iron supplements but my body could not absorb ANY nutrients. at. all. These vitamins have a different make up that allows the body to absorb them quickly and more efficiently than most vitamins. My bloodwork improved very quickly after beginning to take them! They are really amazing supplements.
They have candles which wont emit harmful things into your home air.
It really has saved us money to use this company. It has saved our environment locally by NOT having such harsh chemicals in our home. It has affected MY bloodwork(removing toxins from the home causes my liver to not work as hard), it has given me products I feel good about my children using.(I can have them clean and not worry about fumes or skin burns!) Just today I realized how many of their items are in my daily routines. I was thinking about how much money I have saved, how much cleaner our air is, and about how much better I feel. And I had to share!
www.melaleuca.com
If a person were wanting to buy, they can sign up like at S*m's with a 30.00 fee. Then there would be a requirement of about 45.00 a month to keep the PC or "preferred customer" status. So, look at the PC price. It is well worth signing up, to detox your home, and make you feel better. AND your cleaning will be easier, and your clothes will be cleaner! OH(speaking of clothes!) their laundry stuff is actually helping to keep our clothes looking newer. It does not fade or tear or wear out your clothes. We have clothes that have been passed through family after family... and they last so well.
If you are interested in their products but are unsure about signing up, I can order things FOR you and have them shipped to you, then you can pay me through paypal or check. I would not make anything for this-- just getting you the stuff at my cost.I just want everyone to realize the value and effectiveness of this stuff. I think it could help save lives in fact. I feel very sure it played a vital role in saving MINE. if you have any questions, email me : hezra_at_home@yahoo.com Have a happy FRIDAY!!
(use a children's medicine measuring cup or other tiny container)
mix :
a few drops of olive oil
a few drops of hot water
a few drops of tea tree oil
* then dab a cotton ball in the mix until it is soaked. Squeeze it out well. Then put in ear(you may have to tear it in half before dipping)
Do this as much as possible and especially at bedtime. Do this at first sign of ear ache if possible. This will kill infection and heal the ear. If you have a full blown ear infection, be sure to squeeze the cotton ball well, because it may sting if the ear is really inflamed. I have had to wait until kids were asleep to put theirs in sometimes.
Aside from their top grade tea tree oil, this company sells home cleaning products that are safe, and non-toxic laundry and dish care. They have the BEST laundry stuff. Really. If you look at their prices though, it may seem expensive, but their stuff is super concentrated. I use 1 TABLESPOON in a large load of clothes and they are super clean. I once got ink out of a new quilt(pale pink quilt) by using their stain treatment and then detergent.
They have safe body care products. Beauty products. PET products. Diet products. dish care products, Nutrition etc. I have to share about their vitamins. I was super anemic after having my third baby. I had colon problems that we could not get a clear diagnosis on. My liver tests were elevated to hundreds of times what they ought to have been. My Dr wanted me to have a full blood transfusion. They gave me iron supplements but my body could not absorb ANY nutrients. at. all. These vitamins have a different make up that allows the body to absorb them quickly and more efficiently than most vitamins. My bloodwork improved very quickly after beginning to take them! They are really amazing supplements.
They have candles which wont emit harmful things into your home air.
It really has saved us money to use this company. It has saved our environment locally by NOT having such harsh chemicals in our home. It has affected MY bloodwork(removing toxins from the home causes my liver to not work as hard), it has given me products I feel good about my children using.(I can have them clean and not worry about fumes or skin burns!) Just today I realized how many of their items are in my daily routines. I was thinking about how much money I have saved, how much cleaner our air is, and about how much better I feel. And I had to share!
www.melaleuca.com
If a person were wanting to buy, they can sign up like at S*m's with a 30.00 fee. Then there would be a requirement of about 45.00 a month to keep the PC or "preferred customer" status. So, look at the PC price. It is well worth signing up, to detox your home, and make you feel better. AND your cleaning will be easier, and your clothes will be cleaner! OH(speaking of clothes!) their laundry stuff is actually helping to keep our clothes looking newer. It does not fade or tear or wear out your clothes. We have clothes that have been passed through family after family... and they last so well.
If you are interested in their products but are unsure about signing up, I can order things FOR you and have them shipped to you, then you can pay me through paypal or check. I would not make anything for this-- just getting you the stuff at my cost.I just want everyone to realize the value and effectiveness of this stuff. I think it could help save lives in fact. I feel very sure it played a vital role in saving MINE. if you have any questions, email me : hezra_at_home@yahoo.com Have a happy FRIDAY!!
BAH HUMBUG!!
I am so frustrated!!! I cannot stand the icky consumerism one more minute!! AND it is only DEC 3rd!!! I look at online stores and just think, sheesh, really? Do my kids need that? I get emails, and catalogs daily. FREE SHIPPING! 25% off!! BUY BUY MORE MORE..... your kid NEEDS this. Your home can't be without THIS for the holidays.
GAH!! I can't take it! I want a home for the holidays. A home where there is love, warmth, family and friends. Laughing, eating, and lots of reading and snuggling. I want my kids to see that the REAL meaning of Christmas is Christ. Love, honor, respect,sacrifice... Not getting MORE STUFF!!!!
I waded through the boys' room today. It was a MESS. The only toys they have in there are legos. But there are SO MANY! But what do they want for Christmas? a 3000 piece set of star wars lego STUFF! It is not that I do not wish to bless my kids. It is just that I am tired. Tired of tripping over the same toys. Tired of hearing them say, "do you know what I want for Christmas?", and tired of feeling the pressure to buy at every side.
Maybe my Moriah has it right. She said, "mommy? Here is what I want for Christmas. A toy pony, and for Audrey(my niece) to come over. Something to play with and someone to love. Ahhh... if only everyone on earth could get THAT for Christmas!
GAH!! I can't take it! I want a home for the holidays. A home where there is love, warmth, family and friends. Laughing, eating, and lots of reading and snuggling. I want my kids to see that the REAL meaning of Christmas is Christ. Love, honor, respect,sacrifice... Not getting MORE STUFF!!!!
I waded through the boys' room today. It was a MESS. The only toys they have in there are legos. But there are SO MANY! But what do they want for Christmas? a 3000 piece set of star wars lego STUFF! It is not that I do not wish to bless my kids. It is just that I am tired. Tired of tripping over the same toys. Tired of hearing them say, "do you know what I want for Christmas?", and tired of feeling the pressure to buy at every side.
Maybe my Moriah has it right. She said, "mommy? Here is what I want for Christmas. A toy pony, and for Audrey(my niece) to come over. Something to play with and someone to love. Ahhh... if only everyone on earth could get THAT for Christmas!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thanksgiving 2009
I am so very thankful for my kids!! They are funny, adorable and amazing little(well ok, some are not so little) people. I feel so lucky to have them!
Riley ( he is 12 yrs old)
Elijah (9 yrs old)
Olivia (8 yrs old)
Isaiah (5 yrs old)
Moriah (4 yrs old)
Riley ( he is 12 yrs old)
Elijah (9 yrs old)
Olivia (8 yrs old)
Isaiah (5 yrs old)
Moriah (4 yrs old)
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
bunk bed building
Compromises. Why does life have to be filled with them? Esp in a large family. It feels like we are constantly compromising about something! The most recent was bunk beds for the girls' room. I wanted these adorable white ones with sweet little spindles AND they came with 2 "free" mattresses. But the hubby thought 5 hundred something was too much for said beds. He said we should keep looking. Even though I had been looking for two years for those exact beds at under six hundred. But the mattresses??? Did I mention they were FREE!!?? My usually optimistic hubby became all cynical, scrunched his eyes and said "nothing is FREE-- remember the FREE puppy??" ahem, I think we were talking beds here, NOT dogs. So I looked around online and found free bunk bed/ loft bed plans to BUILD them. It is a basic set. No spindles. But it did look sturdy(very important in my house). The picture showed 6 adults on a top bunk.(I know practically WHEN would that need to happen?? but still it meant STURDY!!) So I asked him what he thought. He wanted to build them. He was excited to build them. I said, if you build it, I will paint them white. It will be our compromise. Here is the breakdown.
The supplies-- 180.00
The plans-- free
The labor-- free but several hrs of building then several hrs priming and painting
This is Dan building them. The boxes were assembled in the garage, then the posts and extras were actually put on IN the room. It is a really heavy set!
This is with the ladder on the end. IT is built. Now ready for painting!
This is the set fully painted and ready to move and get the mattresses on(which WERE free because we already HAD them.)
Moriah's bed! Made and ready for my little Ninja sleeper so she can sleep HERE and not with mommy!!! wooohooooo!!!!!(not that she did not have a bed before. and not that she stayed in it very much the first night, but I keep calling it her "special new bed with high hopes)
awwww, my sweet petite ballerina enjoys her new bed. At least for the super cute photo session.
The finished product is a bed that is simple, takes up little space and works. Not bad for under 200. The ladder is built into the end which makes it easier to build (and did I mention thereby taking up less space?). The girls love it. So that makes this one successful compromise. BUT the biggest problem now? We have to do another set for the new sisters.
The supplies-- 180.00
The plans-- free
The labor-- free but several hrs of building then several hrs priming and painting
This is Dan building them. The boxes were assembled in the garage, then the posts and extras were actually put on IN the room. It is a really heavy set!
This is with the ladder on the end. IT is built. Now ready for painting!
This is the set fully painted and ready to move and get the mattresses on(which WERE free because we already HAD them.)
Moriah's bed! Made and ready for my little Ninja sleeper so she can sleep HERE and not with mommy!!! wooohooooo!!!!!(not that she did not have a bed before. and not that she stayed in it very much the first night, but I keep calling it her "special new bed with high hopes)
awwww, my sweet petite ballerina enjoys her new bed. At least for the super cute photo session.
The finished product is a bed that is simple, takes up little space and works. Not bad for under 200. The ladder is built into the end which makes it easier to build (and did I mention thereby taking up less space?). The girls love it. So that makes this one successful compromise. BUT the biggest problem now? We have to do another set for the new sisters.
Friday, November 20, 2009
bad hair day
As we were getting ready for a trip in Sept, my hubby had #4 out with him. I can run a house, pack for 5 kids and myself and do the dishes literally AT the SAME time, but not if that one kid is in the house. He has the ability to be a kink in every chain. I love him to pireces but sometimes it is required to have breaks.(for my sanity and his probably) So he was "helping" Dad clean out the car. Dad had left some scissors on the front seat of the van. He had a few hairs hanging in his eyes. He saw a problem. He fixed the problem. Just a few days before my niece said, "oh I love his hair long-- it is so cute! Please don't cut it." I actually said, yeah it is starting to hang down a little I better trim a teensey. UGH! What is that saying about a day late? Here he is before the hair cut. Looking all surfer dude cute. My ONLY blue eyed blond in the entire clan.
MY husband brings him in, saying, "DONT FREAK OUT! He is ok!" I of course freak out. I thought he was hurt. This is the kid who has been to the ER every year of his life. The daredevil. The uninhibited one. Then I see him. I thought for long minutes about this. I tried not to cry. He is a boy, short hair is fine for boys. I kept trying to figure out a way to have some length remain, here he is while I assess the damage and try to figure out WHAT to do. We were supposed to be pulling out of the driveway at this moment. He was not happy about the picture, but I said, it is required if YOU cut your hair YOU are getting pictures!
I will post the afters as soon as I can. But imagine his fine blonde hair cut to about 1/2 inch all over. It looks nearly bald because his hair at that length is practically clear! This was not the first hair cut gone bad in our home, but it had better be the last kid done job!
MY husband brings him in, saying, "DONT FREAK OUT! He is ok!" I of course freak out. I thought he was hurt. This is the kid who has been to the ER every year of his life. The daredevil. The uninhibited one. Then I see him. I thought for long minutes about this. I tried not to cry. He is a boy, short hair is fine for boys. I kept trying to figure out a way to have some length remain, here he is while I assess the damage and try to figure out WHAT to do. We were supposed to be pulling out of the driveway at this moment. He was not happy about the picture, but I said, it is required if YOU cut your hair YOU are getting pictures!
I will post the afters as soon as I can. But imagine his fine blonde hair cut to about 1/2 inch all over. It looks nearly bald because his hair at that length is practically clear! This was not the first hair cut gone bad in our home, but it had better be the last kid done job!
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Sticker mania
What is it with Toddlers and stickers?? Or markers? I feel like everytime I get a fresh coat of paint on something SOMEBODY puts something on it! Last night I found Moriah doing this to my freshly- painted bedroom door.
Me: ohhhh!!
Moriah: oh, you don't like it?
Me: well, it can take the paint off that mommy just put on!
Moriah:(sad face) oh.
Me: but I have to get the camera
Moriah: OOOH! You DOOO like it!!!
She graciously (in Vanna White style) pointed out to me the different styles of address labels. Snowmen, Christmas trees.. etc(thank you M*rch of dimes!)
Then after her photo shoot she sweetly removed them and carefully stuck them back to their original card.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
little hackers...
The other day, I was looking online at our favorite websites. We order most of our Christmas gifts because it saves tons of time! AND we sort of love getting mail-gifts. Well, I started at Vision Forum. It is a GREAT place for Godly, toys and books and movies. Also they have real adventure stuff for boys. Last year we got the zipline, and the slingshot! The girl stuff is pretty sweet too. Well, I looked at the top of the page and it said I had 6 items in my cart! hmmm. can't remember adding things, but you know I haven't had a full night's sleep in like 12 years! So I may have but just forgot that detail. So I looked at the cart. hmm, yes, I remember thinking the spy gear would be good. Yes I looked at that for kid 2. hmm... yes I liked that too. then further down, "TOMOHAWK!??" I did not add that!!!!!! Who would give these three boys a tomohawk!? ohhh, it began to hit me ... THEY would. Yes a real weapon folks. These boys can maim one another with foam swords. They do it often. Plastic ones cause serious damage. and they think I'm gonna give them actual blades????? Those greedy little hackers.(hacking as in computer. lol no pun intended there!) if you have never seen the website, www.visionforum.com
Meanwhile, I am thinking foam blocks, bubble wrap and cardboard for my kids for christmas. hmm, no cardboard can give pretty bad cuts... better keep thinking.
Meanwhile, I am thinking foam blocks, bubble wrap and cardboard for my kids for christmas. hmm, no cardboard can give pretty bad cuts... better keep thinking.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
More birthday!!(and a miraculous invention)
ok, so this is a joke-- don't be thinking I mean actual miracle. My daughter got a Barbie house for her birthday she has been wanting for forever. Isaiah(5) gave her one hint. He said, "Sis, your present...(insert dramatic pause) has A ROOF!!!" Surprise ruined. Or so I thought. She still must not have believed she would really get it because her look when she saw that GIGANTIC doll house was priceless:
This dollhouse is great. All the furniture she had but did not have room for(some was mine when I was a little girl) she now has room for. But my niece Nikki kept ooohing and ahhhing over the new stuff we did NOT have as kids. Apparently Barbie now needs a miniature toilet! This came with the bathroom furnitire. Nikki(who is more like my sister than my niece) says, "the only toilet in the world that does not need to be cleaned!"
Here she demonstrated for us, "seat goes up, seat goes down". But maybe Barbie won't need to explain that to Ken. Maybe Ken is the perfect man (as his perfect plastic coif and perfect chest muscles suggest) MAYBE he won't leave the seat up! I wonder...
This dollhouse is great. All the furniture she had but did not have room for(some was mine when I was a little girl) she now has room for. But my niece Nikki kept ooohing and ahhhing over the new stuff we did NOT have as kids. Apparently Barbie now needs a miniature toilet! This came with the bathroom furnitire. Nikki(who is more like my sister than my niece) says, "the only toilet in the world that does not need to be cleaned!"
Here she demonstrated for us, "seat goes up, seat goes down". But maybe Barbie won't need to explain that to Ken. Maybe Ken is the perfect man (as his perfect plastic coif and perfect chest muscles suggest) MAYBE he won't leave the seat up! I wonder...
Saturday, November 14, 2009
the Par-tay
Today was the party!! We had 15 kids(it was hard to get an accurate count- they move so fast!) and several adults-- ending up to be about 25 people!! My baby girl turnes 8 years old. I have tried and tried to explain to her since about age three she really SHOULD stop this growing up thing. ;-) But every year she informs me it must occur. This morning said, so "Sweet Petite, are you feeling eight?" She says, "oh VERY!" well, I can barely remember myself being eight, but judging from the pictures and her sweet smile all day, eight must be feeling pretty awesome.
Her big gift was a gi-normous barbie home.(which by the way, Nikki and I decided we really are going to play with!!) My little niece Audrey hopped of Nonnies lap to throw herself in my arms and squeal, "oooh will you get ME one of those and bring it to MY birthday??!!" It was like the little rabbit on the Robin Hood cartoon, "come again, on my birthday!"
Olivia got to spend the whole day with our dear friends, who drove 2 1/2 hrs to see us! It was a great, busy, chaotic day full of fun and giggles.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Veteran's day 2009
Thank you thank you to all the American soldiers!! The men an women who serve our country and fight so hard for the freedoms we enjoy. The Moore family does not take it lightly!!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Birthday Bunny!
Okay, so we don't believe in the Easter bunny, BUT we are loving a birthday bunny!!
My Olivia turns 8 this month and has wanted a bunny for about 4 years. Of course with our littles as babies it was impossible. Now they are 4 and 5 we were thinking about it. But they are expensive at the pet shops. We were concerned a baby bunny might be too fragile. Well last week a friend of mine posted an ad on facebo*k about her rabbit needing a home. She GAVE us the rabbit, (who is neutered!!) and a cage, water bottle, litter box, shavings and food. EVERYTHING he needed! Olivia is so excited. He spent his first day being very skittish(who could blame him?) But today has been a giant furball of lovin'. We are so grateful that God grants us the desires of our hearts in such amazing ways-- even the somewhat crazy desires like a pet rabbit my little girl has prayed for. But I can tell you this little girl understands the power of prayer and love of God even more. She had tears in her eyes when she found out my friend GAVE him to us for FREE!!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
New baby in the family
My new nephew!!! Henry Luke arrived today at 6:39 pm. He weighed 7 lbs, 2 oz and was 19 inches long. He is truly a beautiful baby!
Isn't he just a darling little fella?????
Seriously... are you overwhelmed by cuteness or WHAT????
His sweet and strong mama Ashley, who worked so hard to keep him strong and so hard to get him here. I am just so proud of her!! This my friends is what WE did today. lol, ok, so I just held a hand and said Good job a lot and took a few photos, but still I AM quite proud. Tomorrow I get to have his big sister Audrey for the day. Can't WAIT to hear what that sweet baboo has to say about him. She giggled and said he was naked! And her mommy took clothes so the Dr would dress him up. lol
Isn't he just a darling little fella?????
Seriously... are you overwhelmed by cuteness or WHAT????
His sweet and strong mama Ashley, who worked so hard to keep him strong and so hard to get him here. I am just so proud of her!! This my friends is what WE did today. lol, ok, so I just held a hand and said Good job a lot and took a few photos, but still I AM quite proud. Tomorrow I get to have his big sister Audrey for the day. Can't WAIT to hear what that sweet baboo has to say about him. She giggled and said he was naked! And her mommy took clothes so the Dr would dress him up. lol
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
The homeschooling journey
OKAY, so we know that homeschooling will be a challenge sometimes. It is just a given. I had an amazing God brought opportunity though that came about for me to follow a personal dream and made it even MORE challenging! I have been thinking for 9 years now about pursuing a midwifery career or at least becoming a certified doula(labor assistant). I had asked a few questions a few years ago from some ladies I found on different yahoo groups, but then sort of put it all out of my head when our babies came along. Now that our littles are 4 and 5, I started thinking about it more. Then one day I got an email from a woman I did not know, but it was marked as a "reply." When I read it, it was about an online school for midwifery,and they have a doula course. We had a little extra money and enough to get the course and the books. I asked my hubby and he agreed and whoosh! I was enrolled in an online course! So I am in the final week of my 6 week course. I am on my way to being a certified labor assistant. I hope to be able to even teach childbirth classes someday. I am so excited to get to attend births, help women AND potentially make money with it!! Now that is the happy side.
The dark side of that issue is that it was SO STINKING Hard to TAKE classes, teach kids, run the house, etc etc. I could notr believe how many nights I was up at 2 am turning in online assignments! I have not been able to blog! I have not taken PICTURES! I feel so out of the loop!! But I have almost reached my finish line of a really important goal. Wahoooo!!!
The dark side of that issue is that it was SO STINKING Hard to TAKE classes, teach kids, run the house, etc etc. I could notr believe how many nights I was up at 2 am turning in online assignments! I have not been able to blog! I have not taken PICTURES! I feel so out of the loop!! But I have almost reached my finish line of a really important goal. Wahoooo!!!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Thankful thursday
Hmm, but it is really Friday MORNING. I have to say, there are so many things I am thankful for. When I get started I sort of snowball. I had the priviledge this week, to spend a night out with my sweet friend "L". Then my dear friend "I" and her little boy came today. It was chaos and I was so scared she would be scared away for LIFE. But she wasn't!! She asked if she could please come again next week!!(??) God is so merciful.
Then tonight I was swamped in clothes up to my knees sorting winter stuff, give aways, and washing EVERYTHING all five kids own(or so it seemed), my friend "T" said she was mom-napping me away for an hr. "E" and "T" took me to our fav. restaurant for coffee dessert and laughs galore. I am afraid we cleared our section because they were worried about us. We laughed so hard-- I am sure they thought we should be at the bar!
So, I am thankful for girlfriends. The ones who love us and keep us bolstered. The ones who pray for us and stand in the gap when we can barely stand. The ones who can look us in the eye and be honest. My sweet Kirsten,Lesley,Charity,Monique, Ingrid, Teri, Edna, Tammie, Joey and Jenn. Then my online buddies Linn, Jean, Lori, Chelsea and "the source" lol. I cannot begin to tell you how encouraged I am by you!
I am humbled and thankful.
I am so amazed that with 5 kids I have had to buy so few clothes! I have been so blessed with good friends who share. We have a bit of a routine now. A circle of moms who pass the stuff around. I Love that Monique,Kim, Kirsten, Lesley, Charity and I can say "hey do you have the girls sz 5s?? I need those or, I need the boys 10s. . . do you have those or does Lesley??" lol I love that we have dresses that we save and are so special because they have been worn by 5 little girls! I love that my friend Kim has tears in her eyes as she says every season, "thank you for clothing my boy, you have clothed him from the day he was born!" No my sweet sister, God has-- for all of us!I love the familiar scent of my friends when I open a bag of clothes freshly laundered from their home and it doesn't smell like Tide or Downy, but a hug from THEM!! I am so grateful for that.(even though I am knee- deep LITERALLY and have washed about 10 loads today! lol)
I am grateful for my kids, that they are not obligations, but little people. And people that I LIKE to be with!! They are hilarious, smart and so much fun.
I am thankful that my husband is trying so hard to be what God has called him to be. He is an awesome provider and has God's favor.
I am thankful for a home that is big enough for us all plus two more! And that God saw fit to make me a joyful mother of many! I am oh so grateful.
I am grateful for parents that did their very best and against so many odds, taught me compassion, love and mercy.
I am grateful for my sister who(God bless her!!) has "raised" so many of us and loves with such force it can take your breath away!
I am grateful for my younger brother, who shows me more and more every day what it means to love and live so fully and freely. And for the Sister in love who just amazes me with her strength and integrity.(and of course for the niece who is like a bundle of sunshine and the new baby nephew on his way!!!!!)
I am thankful for our childrens' birth mom. She is an awesome woman and loves us so much it amazes me every time I see it in action. There are some who say her job is easy. . . but I know better. It cannot be easy to be selfless enough to give a life to another. I am in awe of her.
God has been so good to me. When I was formed in my mother's womb, HE knew me. He KNEW ME. Called me by name and had good plans for me. I am so grateful that he ransomed me and his lessons of love and faith through adoption journeys. . .are so incredible.
I pray that as I listen to the rain tonight, I can swim in His Goodness. Feel the warmth of His love and spill over onto others. Have I mentioned that I am thankful?? ;-)
Then tonight I was swamped in clothes up to my knees sorting winter stuff, give aways, and washing EVERYTHING all five kids own(or so it seemed), my friend "T" said she was mom-napping me away for an hr. "E" and "T" took me to our fav. restaurant for coffee dessert and laughs galore. I am afraid we cleared our section because they were worried about us. We laughed so hard-- I am sure they thought we should be at the bar!
So, I am thankful for girlfriends. The ones who love us and keep us bolstered. The ones who pray for us and stand in the gap when we can barely stand. The ones who can look us in the eye and be honest. My sweet Kirsten,Lesley,Charity,Monique, Ingrid, Teri, Edna, Tammie, Joey and Jenn. Then my online buddies Linn, Jean, Lori, Chelsea and "the source" lol. I cannot begin to tell you how encouraged I am by you!
I am humbled and thankful.
I am so amazed that with 5 kids I have had to buy so few clothes! I have been so blessed with good friends who share. We have a bit of a routine now. A circle of moms who pass the stuff around. I Love that Monique,Kim, Kirsten, Lesley, Charity and I can say "hey do you have the girls sz 5s?? I need those or, I need the boys 10s. . . do you have those or does Lesley??" lol I love that we have dresses that we save and are so special because they have been worn by 5 little girls! I love that my friend Kim has tears in her eyes as she says every season, "thank you for clothing my boy, you have clothed him from the day he was born!" No my sweet sister, God has-- for all of us!I love the familiar scent of my friends when I open a bag of clothes freshly laundered from their home and it doesn't smell like Tide or Downy, but a hug from THEM!! I am so grateful for that.(even though I am knee- deep LITERALLY and have washed about 10 loads today! lol)
I am grateful for my kids, that they are not obligations, but little people. And people that I LIKE to be with!! They are hilarious, smart and so much fun.
I am thankful that my husband is trying so hard to be what God has called him to be. He is an awesome provider and has God's favor.
I am thankful for a home that is big enough for us all plus two more! And that God saw fit to make me a joyful mother of many! I am oh so grateful.
I am grateful for parents that did their very best and against so many odds, taught me compassion, love and mercy.
I am grateful for my sister who(God bless her!!) has "raised" so many of us and loves with such force it can take your breath away!
I am grateful for my younger brother, who shows me more and more every day what it means to love and live so fully and freely. And for the Sister in love who just amazes me with her strength and integrity.(and of course for the niece who is like a bundle of sunshine and the new baby nephew on his way!!!!!)
I am thankful for our childrens' birth mom. She is an awesome woman and loves us so much it amazes me every time I see it in action. There are some who say her job is easy. . . but I know better. It cannot be easy to be selfless enough to give a life to another. I am in awe of her.
God has been so good to me. When I was formed in my mother's womb, HE knew me. He KNEW ME. Called me by name and had good plans for me. I am so grateful that he ransomed me and his lessons of love and faith through adoption journeys. . .are so incredible.
I pray that as I listen to the rain tonight, I can swim in His Goodness. Feel the warmth of His love and spill over onto others. Have I mentioned that I am thankful?? ;-)
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Hezra's Thoughtful Spot
Today we read again a chapter in "The house at Pooh Corner", and a chapter of Hank the Cowdog.(our current read aloud books) In reading the Pooh book, I have discovered some very realistic, and surprisingly modern- day characters. Bear with me a minute or two (yes, pun intended).
Okay, so we have Rabbit. He is so obviously OCD it isn't even funny. He has serious control issues and is just sadly, not as smart as he would like to think. I think that poor rabbit could use some Prozac and a weekly meeting with a kind therapist.
Then there is Owl. He is quite narcissitic (okay I know my selling is off!!) I think he tries to cover up his inadequacies with big words and lots of talk. He needs to see Dr Phil and just get REAL! Go on Oprah OWL!
Next, we have poor little Piglet. That little guy has such bad anxiety issues we need to start him on a pretty high dose of anti anxiety meds JUST to get him functional. I think that might help his stuttering too!
Eeyore is obviously very depressed! He needs a good round of anti- depressants and again, a good therapist. A few friends and a night out here and there wouldn't hurt the poor guy either!AND maybe a MRS EEYORE?? Just a thought.
Of course there is Pooh Bear himself. That fluffy little bear has a bit of an eating disorder. He has serious food issues. I mean, he plans his whole DAY around food. All the while calling a whole pot of "hunny" a "little something." Portion Control and Weight watchers could help. But he needs to be honest about his amounts! Oddly, they call him the bear of very little brain. BUT he is a creative(if not so talented) songwriter and poet. He figures out almost all of the solutions to their problems. AND he is good at making and keeping friends. Not a bad bear if you ask me.
Kanga is the sweet bio and adoptive mom who took Tigger in under her wing(er pouch as it were) and cared for him so well. Calling him Tigger Dear and all.
Speaking of Tigger! THAT is an obvious case of ADHD if I ever saw one! He needs Ritalin --not that stuff Kanga gives him!!(energy stuff??!! She is sweet but I think she may be a little ditsy) Roo. Roo may be the only normal one in the hundred acre woods. He is the bouncy but happy little fella. He loves his big brother(Tigger) and obeys his mom. Very sweet kid.
Ahh, it makes on feel very sorry for Christopher Robin. He has to the what 5 year old ringleader of that strange crew??? Kind of a lot to put on a kid!
So, that is my take on the characters of Pooh corner. I wonder what Milne was trying to tell us?? Maybe he made these quirky characters to remind us of aunts, uncles moms, dads, sisters and brothers(and let's not forget friends) That is why they have seemed so real. So memorable. AND so timeless. They are like family. Ya gotta love that!
Okay, so we have Rabbit. He is so obviously OCD it isn't even funny. He has serious control issues and is just sadly, not as smart as he would like to think. I think that poor rabbit could use some Prozac and a weekly meeting with a kind therapist.
Then there is Owl. He is quite narcissitic (okay I know my selling is off!!) I think he tries to cover up his inadequacies with big words and lots of talk. He needs to see Dr Phil and just get REAL! Go on Oprah OWL!
Next, we have poor little Piglet. That little guy has such bad anxiety issues we need to start him on a pretty high dose of anti anxiety meds JUST to get him functional. I think that might help his stuttering too!
Eeyore is obviously very depressed! He needs a good round of anti- depressants and again, a good therapist. A few friends and a night out here and there wouldn't hurt the poor guy either!AND maybe a MRS EEYORE?? Just a thought.
Of course there is Pooh Bear himself. That fluffy little bear has a bit of an eating disorder. He has serious food issues. I mean, he plans his whole DAY around food. All the while calling a whole pot of "hunny" a "little something." Portion Control and Weight watchers could help. But he needs to be honest about his amounts! Oddly, they call him the bear of very little brain. BUT he is a creative(if not so talented) songwriter and poet. He figures out almost all of the solutions to their problems. AND he is good at making and keeping friends. Not a bad bear if you ask me.
Kanga is the sweet bio and adoptive mom who took Tigger in under her wing(er pouch as it were) and cared for him so well. Calling him Tigger Dear and all.
Speaking of Tigger! THAT is an obvious case of ADHD if I ever saw one! He needs Ritalin --not that stuff Kanga gives him!!(energy stuff??!! She is sweet but I think she may be a little ditsy) Roo. Roo may be the only normal one in the hundred acre woods. He is the bouncy but happy little fella. He loves his big brother(Tigger) and obeys his mom. Very sweet kid.
Ahh, it makes on feel very sorry for Christopher Robin. He has to the what 5 year old ringleader of that strange crew??? Kind of a lot to put on a kid!
So, that is my take on the characters of Pooh corner. I wonder what Milne was trying to tell us?? Maybe he made these quirky characters to remind us of aunts, uncles moms, dads, sisters and brothers(and let's not forget friends) That is why they have seemed so real. So memorable. AND so timeless. They are like family. Ya gotta love that!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
A trip (getting there was NOT half the fun)
Last weekend we were heading to OKC. My twitter/bloggy friend lives there and it was her birthday. AND it was the Arts festival(which we had never attended before) Getting packed was tricky. Friday(the day before) was Riley's laundry day. He was slow or negligent. Whatever. He had not finished his laundry. USUALLY, I have them bring their backpacks, and I tell them we need two daytime outfits, two underwear,swimsuit, socks a pr of pjs. . .etc. But this Friday, I felt all out of sorts because it had been a rough week. AND my laundry system was messed up. (did I mention there was a kid holding this parade up?? Ok, I will let it go now) So, the night comes, kids are in bed. Dan says , lets watch a movie, you can relax. I watched. I fell asleep. Morning comes like a jet-- way too fast. He wakes me with coffee and breakfast and a slightly concerned look, saying, "um, honey? we kind of need to hurry." this is where adrenaline kicks in. I say, "oh CRAP!! What time is it??" He says, oh, calm down, it is ok, we just need to get a move on. BUT don't worry , the kids are all packed. (!? Don't worry?? who packed their stuff? Who told them what to pack? WHAT ON EARTH DID THEY PACK!? I jumped up, showered quickly and packed my stuff. All the toothbrushes went into my bag and all personals and meds.
I had everyone bring me backpacks and checked them. Sure glad I did, because half the crew would have been naked by the second day. They had 1 outfit, some had no underwear, others had no socks. Moriah had only 1 outfit and a swimsuit. Nothing else. OH but her dolly had a weeks worth of clothes!
I quickly cleaned the kitchen and had kids taking out trash and feeding animals. Dan had the two littles helping him clean out the van. About 20 minutes into this routine, he brings in Isaiah and has a sheepish look. Saying, ok now stay calm. . . "WHAT HAPPENED NOW?!?" I failed at the stay calm. Apparently while Dad was cleaning the van, Isaiah found scissors. He cut his hair!! HE is FIVE years old!!! He cut his hair only in the front/top, and it was long and so cute long. But now he had a crew cut on top only and the sides were long. I growled and took him to the bathroom. He was sad because he knew I was angry, and yes I felt guilty about it. I said, you have to get mommy or daddy to help with hair cutting it is the RULE!! I looked him over for a good five minutes trying to figure out some way to save some length. But I could only see it ending up a mullet, so therefore it is all short now. *sigh* and so, he had a haircut, a shower, and we left for our trip. And that man told me to stay calm. . . . Why does he say that? Doesn't he know I automatically assume it is worthy of being upset about when he says that??
When we were 30 minutes down the road, 9 yo Elijah says, "um mom?" what? " I accidentally left my backpack." WHAT??!!! "Well, I was so excited, when dad said load up, I just ran to the car." So, our first assignment on arrival was to check in our hotel and then head to Ross and get him clothes.
That night as we were watching TV and Riley was getting showered, he screams, "MOM!" I ran to the bathroom, to find him wrapped in a towel and looking desperately through his bag. "I forgot to pack shorts!!!" lolol his was the only bag I didn't check(aside from Dans of course ;-) So, from now on, we pack this crew MY way. No movie and falling asleep the night before. No relaxing. No getting lazy on the laundry. AND WE Get our bags to the CAR! oh. and no last minute hair cuts would be very nice too. And that man wonders why I get a little anxious sometimes. sheesh.
I had everyone bring me backpacks and checked them. Sure glad I did, because half the crew would have been naked by the second day. They had 1 outfit, some had no underwear, others had no socks. Moriah had only 1 outfit and a swimsuit. Nothing else. OH but her dolly had a weeks worth of clothes!
I quickly cleaned the kitchen and had kids taking out trash and feeding animals. Dan had the two littles helping him clean out the van. About 20 minutes into this routine, he brings in Isaiah and has a sheepish look. Saying, ok now stay calm. . . "WHAT HAPPENED NOW?!?" I failed at the stay calm. Apparently while Dad was cleaning the van, Isaiah found scissors. He cut his hair!! HE is FIVE years old!!! He cut his hair only in the front/top, and it was long and so cute long. But now he had a crew cut on top only and the sides were long. I growled and took him to the bathroom. He was sad because he knew I was angry, and yes I felt guilty about it. I said, you have to get mommy or daddy to help with hair cutting it is the RULE!! I looked him over for a good five minutes trying to figure out some way to save some length. But I could only see it ending up a mullet, so therefore it is all short now. *sigh* and so, he had a haircut, a shower, and we left for our trip. And that man told me to stay calm. . . . Why does he say that? Doesn't he know I automatically assume it is worthy of being upset about when he says that??
When we were 30 minutes down the road, 9 yo Elijah says, "um mom?" what? " I accidentally left my backpack." WHAT??!!! "Well, I was so excited, when dad said load up, I just ran to the car." So, our first assignment on arrival was to check in our hotel and then head to Ross and get him clothes.
That night as we were watching TV and Riley was getting showered, he screams, "MOM!" I ran to the bathroom, to find him wrapped in a towel and looking desperately through his bag. "I forgot to pack shorts!!!" lolol his was the only bag I didn't check(aside from Dans of course ;-) So, from now on, we pack this crew MY way. No movie and falling asleep the night before. No relaxing. No getting lazy on the laundry. AND WE Get our bags to the CAR! oh. and no last minute hair cuts would be very nice too. And that man wonders why I get a little anxious sometimes. sheesh.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Pierced ears
MY little girl is growing up. When she was turning six, Aunt Sheila gave her a gift card to get her ears pierced. She was a little scared and saved it for months in my purse. Every time went to Wal-M*rt together she would mention it, but then say no. Finally,she spent the gift card on other fun stuff MONTHS later. We have talked about it so many times. She asked once, "Mommy, can they just knock me out so I don't feel a thing?" I said, um, no, not for ear piercing. AND, by the way, I need you to remember a hard word, "epidural". lol I was muttering and walking away so it was more for my husband I was saying it. But thirty minutes later she said, "OK Mommy, am ready now!" I said, for what? She said, "For that EPIDURAL thing". Then we can get my ears pierced?? She is a crack -up. Anyway so a few MORE months go by. The night before her Daddy's birthday, she says(at 8 PM) "Mommy, I am really ready to get my ears pierced." So I grabbed my purse and threw her in the car.(BUT I have to say, I was kind of a cheater pants. I gave her Ibuprofin before. AND I dabbed oragel on her earlobes, then washed it off with wet wipes RIGHT before walking in the place) She was so brave and after seeing the first one done, and crying a single tear. . .she was so excited-- she was all smile and dimple. She just kept saying "I did it I did it!!"
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Crazy love
crazy love
MY life is a tad insane. I know it. I admit it. I have right now, a plastic box with rocks and frogs in my entry. I have two new kittens who feel the need to BE everywhere all the time. Add to that the five current children. My brooding preteen who needs constant toddler-like reassurance of my affection. My very practical 9 year old who keeps us all balanced and tries to maintain peace(emotionally that is-- he literally bounces off walls physically!) My adorably sweet 7 year old who has become a little, um, emotional. She prays every day for her "two new sisters to come quickly," but I think she is very nervous about their coming too. My #4 asked me yesterday if I could change his name to Miguel.(?!) He is , hm, words escape me. He has been rough today, and every day for the last 5 yrs. He is a "challenge to parent,""strong -willed", "spirited" those are the terms the books call him. He requires so much of my attention, emotions and constant discipline that I feel like a wrung out sponge some days. But I also see his growth and improvement and feel grateful for my boy. The first I did not birth, but the very first to come by adoption. Then there is my baby. Who lately hates being called that. She is quiet and shy and her brother's faithful minion. Those two are biologically linked (they share a birthmom) and so spiritually linked it still baffles me. When she was a newborn and he was 14 mos old, I had their cribs in the same room, end to end. I would wake up to check on them early and find him curled up around her!! With one chubby arm protectively over her and his other around his night night. This sight was terrifying night after night, but at the same time, comforting. They needed me, but just as importantly, they needed each other. How lucky am I to get to see that. She is 4 and FINALLY warming up to people. Family members are saying she is "coming out of her shell". She says, "mommy, I yoves(loves) you!", AND. . .(dramatic pause) I YIKE (like) you!!" Well, thanks Sweetie, that says it all. I like you too AND I love you. Love is like. . . a yo yo we let it go we roll it up. . . over and over and it always thrills me when it comes back. Love is like opening a present, every time a kid says I love you to me, I feel like someone just gave me a present. Every slobbery kiss. . . sticky handed hug. Crazy wild and lovely.
MY life is a tad insane. I know it. I admit it. I have right now, a plastic box with rocks and frogs in my entry. I have two new kittens who feel the need to BE everywhere all the time. Add to that the five current children. My brooding preteen who needs constant toddler-like reassurance of my affection. My very practical 9 year old who keeps us all balanced and tries to maintain peace(emotionally that is-- he literally bounces off walls physically!) My adorably sweet 7 year old who has become a little, um, emotional. She prays every day for her "two new sisters to come quickly," but I think she is very nervous about their coming too. My #4 asked me yesterday if I could change his name to Miguel.(?!) He is , hm, words escape me. He has been rough today, and every day for the last 5 yrs. He is a "challenge to parent,""strong -willed", "spirited" those are the terms the books call him. He requires so much of my attention, emotions and constant discipline that I feel like a wrung out sponge some days. But I also see his growth and improvement and feel grateful for my boy. The first I did not birth, but the very first to come by adoption. Then there is my baby. Who lately hates being called that. She is quiet and shy and her brother's faithful minion. Those two are biologically linked (they share a birthmom) and so spiritually linked it still baffles me. When she was a newborn and he was 14 mos old, I had their cribs in the same room, end to end. I would wake up to check on them early and find him curled up around her!! With one chubby arm protectively over her and his other around his night night. This sight was terrifying night after night, but at the same time, comforting. They needed me, but just as importantly, they needed each other. How lucky am I to get to see that. She is 4 and FINALLY warming up to people. Family members are saying she is "coming out of her shell". She says, "mommy, I yoves(loves) you!", AND. . .(dramatic pause) I YIKE (like) you!!" Well, thanks Sweetie, that says it all. I like you too AND I love you. Love is like. . . a yo yo we let it go we roll it up. . . over and over and it always thrills me when it comes back. Love is like opening a present, every time a kid says I love you to me, I feel like someone just gave me a present. Every slobbery kiss. . . sticky handed hug. Crazy wild and lovely.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Gotta Gush and say thanks
OKAY! I cannot remember any and all who may have talked about "Teaching Textbooks" for math, but I had to gush a little and say a broad generalized thank you to the ones who did. This is an answer to prayer!!
I ordered their 5th grade math for my oldest. We have tried several math programs out there and last I had heard TT was only upper grades so I hadn't even thought of it for real yet, but knew I would check it out when he got to 6th. BUT THEY HAVE 3rd and up.(third is being released soon) So I ordered it Monday, no lie here, and it was here this morning(WEDS!!) My boy, (who hates math with a passion) has said thank you mom for trying another one for me a thousand times before it got here. When it arrived, he was so excited, he got up and did lesson one while still in his pjs. He finished it with missing only 1 problem and that was a typing error. I would post a pic but he didn't want me taking one of him un-showered and in pjs.(whatever, kid!)
So, for the first time EVER in our 9 years of homeschooling, I feel a fit with math. He said,"I'm in love and I don't care who knows it!"(ELF quote there) lol so because he "don't care who knows it" I thought I would share. He said, "mom, can you feel that? That weight being lifted??" Yes, Son, I can. lol We are doing the happy Snoopy dance here. The "give math a chance dance." thanks ladies!
I ordered their 5th grade math for my oldest. We have tried several math programs out there and last I had heard TT was only upper grades so I hadn't even thought of it for real yet, but knew I would check it out when he got to 6th. BUT THEY HAVE 3rd and up.(third is being released soon) So I ordered it Monday, no lie here, and it was here this morning(WEDS!!) My boy, (who hates math with a passion) has said thank you mom for trying another one for me a thousand times before it got here. When it arrived, he was so excited, he got up and did lesson one while still in his pjs. He finished it with missing only 1 problem and that was a typing error. I would post a pic but he didn't want me taking one of him un-showered and in pjs.(whatever, kid!)
So, for the first time EVER in our 9 years of homeschooling, I feel a fit with math. He said,"I'm in love and I don't care who knows it!"(ELF quote there) lol so because he "don't care who knows it" I thought I would share. He said, "mom, can you feel that? That weight being lifted??" Yes, Son, I can. lol We are doing the happy Snoopy dance here. The "give math a chance dance." thanks ladies!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
the Zen of sarcasm
I got this as an email. Not sure where it came from originally. . . so sorry to "steal" it but it is so funny.
The Zen of Sarcasm
1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either.. Just pretty much leave me alone.
2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broke fan belt and leaky tire.
3. It's always darkest before dawn. So if you're going to steal your neighbor's newspaper, that's the time to do it.
4. Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted.
5. Always remember that you're unique. Just like everyone else.
6. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.
7. If you think nobody cares if you're alive, try missing a couple of car payments.
8. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes.
9. If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is probably not for you.
10. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day .
11. If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably a wise investment.
12. If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.
13. Some days you're the bug; some days you're the windshield.
14. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.
15. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket.
16. A closed mouth gathers no foot.
17. Duct tape is like 'The Force'. It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.
18. There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.
19. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving .
20. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.
21. Never miss a good chance to shut up.
AND
22 . Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.
-
The Zen of Sarcasm
1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either.. Just pretty much leave me alone.
2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broke fan belt and leaky tire.
3. It's always darkest before dawn. So if you're going to steal your neighbor's newspaper, that's the time to do it.
4. Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted.
5. Always remember that you're unique. Just like everyone else.
6. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.
7. If you think nobody cares if you're alive, try missing a couple of car payments.
8. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes.
9. If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is probably not for you.
10. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day .
11. If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably a wise investment.
12. If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.
13. Some days you're the bug; some days you're the windshield.
14. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.
15. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket.
16. A closed mouth gathers no foot.
17. Duct tape is like 'The Force'. It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.
18. There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.
19. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving .
20. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.
21. Never miss a good chance to shut up.
AND
22 . Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.
-
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Everything I need to know I learned on vacation
The deep and not so deep.
1. Do not give out Dramamine to the hubsy when you are 2 hrs into a 7 hr trip.(no matter how whiney, I mean how much he begs) If you do, realize there is a NON drowsy formula. He popped those pills so fast. I was amazed. I said did you take them already? He said, well you gave them to me. I said, how did you ever survive high school. He smarts off "with a little help from my friends" HAH! So the moral? Say no to drugs.
2.If you accidentally DID do number one, you can let him have MT Dew and no doze. He survives the over the counter drug mix pretty well. But make sure you are dealing with a guy 220 or so.
3.USE the GPS from the beginning. E says it means Getting places safely. Good job son. But we came up with a few more, get pleasantly surprised? (as in stumble onto a store while lost) going precariously somewhere(as in lost on a swerving mountain road), and many others the kids and I thought of in the moment. Here is the kicker with GPS. Trust the darned thing!! IF you are going to use it, then trust it. Do not take a turn cause it "feels right." No I was not the driver. I tell you, I think a trip was good marriage counseling and therapy all in one. TRUST each other? NO! Trust GPS? YES!!
4. When a person says"please dispose of this" it means quietly, and skillfully GET RID of it. as in, it is something at least slightly revolting. It does NOT mean lick it off! (no I did not do this, and yes the spider on the butter knife was saved from untimely death.)
5. Trash cans in every seat, or every room, or well, everywhere you can fit one, is the way to go!
6.DO NOT attempt to make your family stay at a hotel where there is caution tape! This involved threatening him. I am sad to say. Thus be flexible. JUST because you had plans to stay there and actually had them "hold" two rooms for you, doesn't mean you have to stay. (hold? Hold up? holding drugs? why did they have caution tape?? I was not sending out scouts!sure, maybe they DID just paint the porch but I am not sticking around to get the scoop!)
7. Air freshener. 'Nuff said.
8. Canoeing with your spouse is a great form of therapy. Add three kids into it, and just "float" with the conversations. . .
9. Have snacks all the time readily available. For some reason, people begin to act as though they were raised by wolves when the food supply gets too low. They quickly turn on one another in some prehistoric type of display. Fascinating but I am thinking unhealthy. It is easier and kinder to all to JUST FEED the animals!often.mommy too.
10. Listen to music. . . rollin' rollin' rollin' on the river. . . Music is the soundtrack to life. Get it going and watch everyone become a bobble head.
Listen. Love. Laugh. Sing. Dance. Eat. Drink. Be happy and do fun thing, then rest a lot. Life will be like a vacation every day.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
My Moriah
My sweet baby is no longer a baby! Now she is a little girl 4 years old. No longer in diapers or strollers or slings. This was our first vacation to realize we are past those things. I have to say, I am kind of glad. I LOVE babies, and there are moments when I miss that, but really, truly I am glad. My littlest one is getting to be a bigger girl. She talks, squeals and giggles. She runs to her daddy, she pesters her brothers and borrows clothes from her sister. . .wow! it is going by all zoomy!
kickin' it up at the lake: something about a lemony yellow Dora suit makes a girl get frisky and brave.
kickin' it up at the lake: something about a lemony yellow Dora suit makes a girl get frisky and brave.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Summer Vacation 2009(part 1)
The first part of our vacation was Monday. We went to Beaver's Bend State park here in OK. It is a couple hrs from home. Since the hotel we were first going to stay at had caution tape around it. . .(no I am NOT kidding)Mom promptly said Dad better find us a new nesting place fr the night, when he said he could just check it out, I said I would personally make sure he was outlined in chalk within the paremeters of that caution tape. He decided to side with me. So we stayed at a lovely lodge with a gorgeous view of the lake. Had a 24 hr stay. GREAT food(catfish) and had canoe and paddleboat fun. Oh, and go karts.
The other end of the canoe! Um, sort of looked like the D Man was resting. . . but then again, I was taking pictures so oh well.
The big boys got to do the paddle boat. And they took off!!
This is what Olivia does every time we go to the hotel. She finds the Bible there and begins to look up her favorite verse.(Ps 4:8, which we have painted onto her bedroom wall) She loved reading out on the balcony at the lodge.
This is what D man does every time we go to a hotel. lol But to be fair, he HAD driven a few hrs.
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