All this talk about privates in my house is driving me mad.
Tripp loves to show his, hold em' scratch them... he is only three.. it starts young. He told us just last week that he had "hairballs."
Emma wants to know about them, who has them. Well, she even saw a picture of a boys' "peebird" on a CELLPHONE of a KINDERGARDENER a couple of weeks ago.
Eli had a talk about them at school today. He came home and that was the first thing he said when we walked thru the door. I won't give specifics... but he learned something.
Then, as I was having a discussion with Eli - I was sidetracked with the little kids laughing cause Harley the community dog was licking his. Tripp said, "Do you think he will eat it, too?"
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Date night.
Date night last night-- it was a blast.
Not only did Dave have a date with the most beautiful girl in the world,
I had a date with the most handsome 3 year old ever.
Here is a picture of the beautiful girl.
I tried to curl her hair - but she wanted to leave it straight. Here is Mallie Mo. I curled her hair.
She is so sassy. 
Here is sweet Emma and her super sweet and cute daddy. He took me for sushi today after lunch. Yum!
*and he bought me a new vacuum*
What a way to a mom's heart - a new, clean and shiny vacuum cleaner!
We all partied too much last night. Tripp and I ended up at the chick-fila and then we went to Walmart to score a new toy. We all ended up home around 11 pm. Getting up for church was fierce this morning.
Eli said opening prayer tonight at church. I was so proud of him. He wrote it down and he did such a good job.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Smashing Saturday.
Lazy. Lazy, day.
Soccer was cancelled due to rain. Yey! This means that this is my last weekend of freedom.
After this, my weekends will be filled with soccer, baseball, softball and kid stuff. Ahh! Spring has officially arrived!
I went and ran again this morning. It just feels so good- yet, bad at the same time.
It is going easier than what I thought.
Tonight, Emma and Dave are going to the father/daughter dance-date night (Officially called The Cinderella Ball).
I asked her awhile ago if she had a boyfriend - and she said yes - her daddy. They were going on a date.
I have a date also. I am taking Tripp to Chik-fila so "we" can play in the indoor playground. Then, maybe a quick stop at Old Navy. Eli will likely be somewhere else with other people besides his momma. :)
I will post pictures later.
Soccer was cancelled due to rain. Yey! This means that this is my last weekend of freedom.
After this, my weekends will be filled with soccer, baseball, softball and kid stuff. Ahh! Spring has officially arrived!
I went and ran again this morning. It just feels so good- yet, bad at the same time.
It is going easier than what I thought.
Tonight, Emma and Dave are going to the father/daughter dance-date night (Officially called The Cinderella Ball).
I asked her awhile ago if she had a boyfriend - and she said yes - her daddy. They were going on a date.
I have a date also. I am taking Tripp to Chik-fila so "we" can play in the indoor playground. Then, maybe a quick stop at Old Navy. Eli will likely be somewhere else with other people besides his momma. :)
I will post pictures later.
Friday, March 27, 2009
I runned!
I ran tonight. And it hurt. But not as much as what I expected. I haven't ran in probably 6 or 8 months. And, that explains my 20 pound weight gain.
I am doing couch to 5K. I did it a few years ago and it is magic. I ran after that - I got up to about 3 miles. I loved running so much I would dream about it. In my dreams, I ran so fast and easy. And those dreams made me want to run more. Within a year and a few months, I finished 5 - 5k's. My sweet husband was even supportive enough of me to drive me to Memphis and run at St. Judes. I ran a 5 K at Tech by myself on spring day 2 April's ago. I ran in Livingston. I ran at the Y.
Since I have been sick on and off for the past couple of years, my exercise has not really been consistant. But, it was enough to keep my weight down to where my "normal" jeans fit. Well guess what - my normal jeans have not fit in quite some time. I had a hysterectomy last October and I said that when I got situated from that, I was going to get back in shape again. I guess it has taken me 5 months to situate. Hormones (or lack thereof) along with a busy schedule have prevented me - no, I prevented me - from doing what I needed to do.
Not anymore.
I am doing couch to 5K. I did it a few years ago and it is magic. I ran after that - I got up to about 3 miles. I loved running so much I would dream about it. In my dreams, I ran so fast and easy. And those dreams made me want to run more. Within a year and a few months, I finished 5 - 5k's. My sweet husband was even supportive enough of me to drive me to Memphis and run at St. Judes. I ran a 5 K at Tech by myself on spring day 2 April's ago. I ran in Livingston. I ran at the Y.
Since I have been sick on and off for the past couple of years, my exercise has not really been consistant. But, it was enough to keep my weight down to where my "normal" jeans fit. Well guess what - my normal jeans have not fit in quite some time. I had a hysterectomy last October and I said that when I got situated from that, I was going to get back in shape again. I guess it has taken me 5 months to situate. Hormones (or lack thereof) along with a busy schedule have prevented me - no, I prevented me - from doing what I needed to do.
Not anymore.
Funny Sayings.
So here are some strange -but true - sayings from the kids this week.
Tripp
The setup - Eli had parent-teacher conference on Tuesday. We visited all teachers. At the end, we see the Homeroom teacher, who's name happens to be Mrs. Jackson. Does anyone know a song about Mrs. Jackson? Tripp does. On the way out the door, Dave says, "Thanks Mrs. Jackson."
Tripp says, "Sorry Mrs. Jackson, whhooooo."
We about died. With laughter.
How about another Tripp story?
The setup- church on Sunday morning. We are leaving. Going thru the big doors in the front. A man is standing there with a scratch/red bloody injury on his forehead.
Tripp looks at the guy and says, "Hey Phil, you look funny with that red dot on your head."
Dave doubled over. With laughter. It was funny. Really.
Got to love a three year old's honesty.
Emma
The setup - I am setting at the computer doing homework. For my stupid Geography class, I have to go a Google Earth paper. (If you ever get time, you should download Google Earth. The kids thought it was cool to play with.) So, what happens is that you put in the address of where you want to see or you can put in latitude and longitude numbers.
I am looking at somewhere I don't remember right now.
Emma comes up behind me and says, "Hey Mom - are you spying on Santa Claus?"
The setup - She, I, Dave and Tripp were playing on the bed last night. She likes to fart on command. And she likes to do it on people.
She says, "Hold on, I have to go pee where I can fart more."
She will hate me for this one.
Eli
Eli is 13. He is a teenager who likes girls and clothes and is dying for a cellphone. Nothing funny about him.
Tripp
The setup - Eli had parent-teacher conference on Tuesday. We visited all teachers. At the end, we see the Homeroom teacher, who's name happens to be Mrs. Jackson. Does anyone know a song about Mrs. Jackson? Tripp does. On the way out the door, Dave says, "Thanks Mrs. Jackson."
Tripp says, "Sorry Mrs. Jackson, whhooooo."
We about died. With laughter.
How about another Tripp story?
The setup- church on Sunday morning. We are leaving. Going thru the big doors in the front. A man is standing there with a scratch/red bloody injury on his forehead.
Tripp looks at the guy and says, "Hey Phil, you look funny with that red dot on your head."
Dave doubled over. With laughter. It was funny. Really.
Got to love a three year old's honesty.
Emma
The setup - I am setting at the computer doing homework. For my stupid Geography class, I have to go a Google Earth paper. (If you ever get time, you should download Google Earth. The kids thought it was cool to play with.) So, what happens is that you put in the address of where you want to see or you can put in latitude and longitude numbers.
I am looking at somewhere I don't remember right now.
Emma comes up behind me and says, "Hey Mom - are you spying on Santa Claus?"
The setup - She, I, Dave and Tripp were playing on the bed last night. She likes to fart on command. And she likes to do it on people.
She says, "Hold on, I have to go pee where I can fart more."
She will hate me for this one.
Eli
Eli is 13. He is a teenager who likes girls and clothes and is dying for a cellphone. Nothing funny about him.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
ABC'S AND 123'S
Report Card Week!!!
Eli was thisclose to having all A's again... boy started a downward spiral last 9 weeks - and Dave was going to MAKE SURE he pulled him back up. He missed all A's by 2 points in one class. I was a little OK with it because the teacher needs to retire. Seriously. She just needs to stay at home. She doesn't like my kid. So I don't like her.
Emma - only in kindergarden, mind you - has previously had a running series of N's in the talking department. For those who don't know what a "N" is - it stands for "needs inprovement." Can you believe my daughter talks too much? Can you believe she talks all day long? Well, this last 9 weeks, her teacher says there is a dramatic improvement - and Em is now keeping her mouth shut when she is supposed to. In fact, at today's assembly - she was awarded the Super Trouper Award. She had been patiently waiting all year for this - it means she is an outstanding student. I coulda told them that at the beginning of the year.
Eli was thisclose to having all A's again... boy started a downward spiral last 9 weeks - and Dave was going to MAKE SURE he pulled him back up. He missed all A's by 2 points in one class. I was a little OK with it because the teacher needs to retire. Seriously. She just needs to stay at home. She doesn't like my kid. So I don't like her.
Emma - only in kindergarden, mind you - has previously had a running series of N's in the talking department. For those who don't know what a "N" is - it stands for "needs inprovement." Can you believe my daughter talks too much? Can you believe she talks all day long? Well, this last 9 weeks, her teacher says there is a dramatic improvement - and Em is now keeping her mouth shut when she is supposed to. In fact, at today's assembly - she was awarded the Super Trouper Award. She had been patiently waiting all year for this - it means she is an outstanding student. I coulda told them that at the beginning of the year.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
If you don't have anything nice to post, then don't post anything at all.
Whew.
Boy, I am feeling a little crazy. So crazy, in fact, that I have just RIGHT NOW realized that I have forgotten to take my hormones. So I just doubled up. That realllly ought to make Dave happy. Just kidding. Not really.
My life is a whirlwind. I long for the days of old where I would lounge in my pj's, read to the kids, go outside and pick flowers, whistle while I work, watch Dora, Dora, Dora the Explorer and Molly and Loonette do a 10 second tidy on the Big Comfy Couch. I miss making bowls of cereal, cuddling in the bed til' 9 am, praying for patience and then praying for naptime, and then waiting for naptime to be over. I miss the kids alot. And, as bad as I hate to say it, I miss being a housewife.
I realize there are lots of things that don't apply to me. Like playgroups, for example. I used to be up to date with all the playgroups, the local going-on's of my mommy homies in both Livingston and Cookeville. Now, I haven't a clue. My special friend came by my work yesterday and we went for a mid-day walk thru town. We talked (which is what we are best at) and just spent time catching up. She is about the only person that I really keep up with from the days when my life consisted of the Y, afternoons at the park, and Friday playdates.
Sometimes, I am so jealous of those who still have small children - children that are small enough that they still need diapers and diaper bags, middle of the night feedings and buy baby food in the jar in mass quantities. I know that my time is over. I hate it. That time goes by so fast, that while you are living it, you don't know how much fun you are really having. And then it is just gone.
I know that life runs in cycles - I am just in a new cycle. Most of all, though, I wish I had stopped and smelled the roses while the kids were smaller. I should have cherished that time more. Now they are getting bigger, and I am getting that sweet freedom that I craved so much when they were smaller. And it doesn't seem so sweet anymore.
Boy, I am feeling a little crazy. So crazy, in fact, that I have just RIGHT NOW realized that I have forgotten to take my hormones. So I just doubled up. That realllly ought to make Dave happy. Just kidding. Not really.
My life is a whirlwind. I long for the days of old where I would lounge in my pj's, read to the kids, go outside and pick flowers, whistle while I work, watch Dora, Dora, Dora the Explorer and Molly and Loonette do a 10 second tidy on the Big Comfy Couch. I miss making bowls of cereal, cuddling in the bed til' 9 am, praying for patience and then praying for naptime, and then waiting for naptime to be over. I miss the kids alot. And, as bad as I hate to say it, I miss being a housewife.
I realize there are lots of things that don't apply to me. Like playgroups, for example. I used to be up to date with all the playgroups, the local going-on's of my mommy homies in both Livingston and Cookeville. Now, I haven't a clue. My special friend came by my work yesterday and we went for a mid-day walk thru town. We talked (which is what we are best at) and just spent time catching up. She is about the only person that I really keep up with from the days when my life consisted of the Y, afternoons at the park, and Friday playdates.
Sometimes, I am so jealous of those who still have small children - children that are small enough that they still need diapers and diaper bags, middle of the night feedings and buy baby food in the jar in mass quantities. I know that my time is over. I hate it. That time goes by so fast, that while you are living it, you don't know how much fun you are really having. And then it is just gone.
I know that life runs in cycles - I am just in a new cycle. Most of all, though, I wish I had stopped and smelled the roses while the kids were smaller. I should have cherished that time more. Now they are getting bigger, and I am getting that sweet freedom that I craved so much when they were smaller. And it doesn't seem so sweet anymore.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
The yard roamer is back.
And he brought more of his family, this time. Remember a few weeks ago when I told of the guy who played with his kid in my yard when he thought no one was home?
Well, he came back today. Several times, actually.
Just now, he was here again with a lady and 4 (!) kids.
Tripp and Emma drove Tripp's truck and got it stuck. I had to go pull them out, right by the people who were hanging out in my yard. I was about 5 feet from them. They didn't even say hi.
How about "nice grass," maybe? Nope. Nothing.
Does anyone else find this strange that a family comes thru our yard and plays?
I think I am going to r.u.n.n.o.f.t.
Ugh. What a stupid weekend to finish up a stupid week. If you are looking for a positive and upbeat letter about love, life and happiness and expect chirping birds to be flying overhead, you are in the wrong place.
All I want right now is some sushi and some peace and quiet outta this house.
Ever feel overloaded? Well, I am it. IT. OVERLOADED.
I have so much to do and no where to start.
I am absolutely miserable.
School, work, kids, ladies day, church food group coordinator, RTL president, wife, mother, sister, upkeeper of my father... the list goes on and on.
I know that I will be all happy and chirpy tomorrow morning... heck, maybe in a couple of hours this will go away. Birds will be singing, butterflies will be floating all around me, kids will joyously behave and my husband will be full of love and admiration once again.
But right now, I am going to r.u.n.n.o.f.t.
All I want right now is some sushi and some peace and quiet outta this house.
Ever feel overloaded? Well, I am it. IT. OVERLOADED.
I have so much to do and no where to start.
I am absolutely miserable.
School, work, kids, ladies day, church food group coordinator, RTL president, wife, mother, sister, upkeeper of my father... the list goes on and on.
I know that I will be all happy and chirpy tomorrow morning... heck, maybe in a couple of hours this will go away. Birds will be singing, butterflies will be floating all around me, kids will joyously behave and my husband will be full of love and admiration once again.
But right now, I am going to r.u.n.n.o.f.t.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Friday night follies.
Is this not the sweetest face ever? I took this picture about 20 minutes ago. I love this kid so much. His eyelashes kill me. His sweet cheeks make me want to just eat them up. And he has the pookiest lips in the whole world. 
In other news, Emma is a READER. She told me tonight that she could read this book. And, boy can she. I have sat thru this one, as well as two others. She read all 50'ish pages. I am so proud of her. What a super smart girl. And she is just so enthusiastic about learning.I would have a picture of Eli here - but he has been at the movies. That is a teenager for ya.
Here is Dave and Tripp doing what they do best on a lazy Friday night. After a 2 week hiatus, we have eased back into our Friday night couch naps. Emma and Mallie are watching Sharkboy and Lavagirl while I am supposed to be doing homework.Homework. Ah, homework. Ugh. I am about fed up. I have a huge vent. It has been eating at me ALL.Day.long.
I am at the end of basic courses...yada...yada...yada. This semester I have Geography 105 - online. This teacher has turned the basic geography class into a political class. I have had to discuss many topics that I usually wouldn't discuss... for example Obama/the racist factor.... immigration/who belongs here and who doesn't... genocide/what constitutes the definition... and so on. After waiting 2 weeks for a grade on a grueling all day midterm that I deemed ridiculous, I FINALLY got my grade this morning. Dude gave me a 66/100. He told me I should google "How to write an essay" and that if I needed any help with my writing, I should email him and he would be glad to help me. He also said that abortion does not qualify as a genocide because the baby is not a baby - just a blastocyst. I have steered clear of voicing my opinions because I figured out early on that he was much too liberal to respect my Conservative beliefs. Now that I have voiced my views, is he going to give me a bad grade because we don't think alike? I think it is happening.
First off, online classes cost much more than "regular" classes. Add this factor in with the fact that I am an adult and I have to "set the example" for my kids... well, this is alot of "encouragement" to do well in school. So far, I haven't really had any problems making the grade.
My problem is this... could/should I tell him that he is a jerk? No, I can't. All I can do is wait until I finish this semester and give him the teacher review he deserves. I don't have an issue that he is not pro life/conservative/Republican. I do have an issue with him being disrespectful and condescending in the times that I have emailed him.. he is a sarcastic ass on many, many levels.
POINT TO MY KIDS- finish college before you are older than the teachers and before you have became an actual adult. That way, you won't have to bite your tongue when some arrogant teacher is on a power trip and has the authority to cost you six months of time and $500 because of a difference in opinion.
So, for now, I have to keep my mouth shut and try to finish this class without calling him a sarcastic ass.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Impromptu photo session
Yesterday afternoon. The boys were outside playing.
I grabbed my camera.
I sat them under the nearest tree.
Don't they look thrilled?
Harley Davidson Sadler
I would like to introduce you to the newest member of our family - Harley.
Harley came into the family via my wonderful mother in law... she thought we needed a dog to roam the hillside and protect us all. What actually happened is that he roams from house to house carrying shoes off.. and he is always looking for a free meal.
The kids love him - so much, in fact, that when they talk to Grandma, the question "How is Harley" is usually what she hears.
Harley is a good dog. He is about 3 or 4 months old. He is going to be huge.
Harley wears a tag on his collar that says "Harley Sadler".
I find all this so funny - I am not an animal person at all. I know that kids need some sort of attachment thingie.. they need something to love and play with. I guess he is good for them. Well, he is really cute.
Bad toys for sweet little kids.
I just read this blog that I absolutely love - and I agree!
Suburban Turmoil: The Barbie Brouhaha
This is exactly what is wrong with the world.. look at what toys are being offered to kids nowadays. This teaches our children what the "norm" is.
Emma and Tripp are going back to playing with rocks and sticks and making mud pies.
I feel like saying no more Barbies (probably not gonna happen)... and I will continue boycotting Bratz.
Suburban Turmoil: The Barbie Brouhaha
This is exactly what is wrong with the world.. look at what toys are being offered to kids nowadays. This teaches our children what the "norm" is.
Emma and Tripp are going back to playing with rocks and sticks and making mud pies.
I feel like saying no more Barbies (probably not gonna happen)... and I will continue boycotting Bratz.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
A depressing week.
Well, it has been a long, depressing week so far... lots of death, illness and sadness all around.
Dave's distant cousin passed away from cancer. She was young - only 28 - and she had a 2 year old. That is a sweet baby that will never know it's momma. That is a child without a mom to be there for all the important things. And that leaves a set of parents who have lost a child at just 28 years old.
Others in our area have passed away recently, too. Just last week, a girl from high school died after a long bout of cancer. She was only 35. She never got married, had babies, or got to do any of the stuff I take for granted. It was difficult to go to her funeral. There are so many woulda, coulda, shouldas.
I think because I am a mom that I tend to focus on the parents of these people who are not living very many years. I can't imagine what my life would be without my kids - and I don't want to ever have to. I can't fathom what losing a child is like.
Oh, well. I have got to change the subject.
On to other news -- let's see... I have been working all week during spring break. Dave has been at home with the kids.. I left early yesterday and went with my sweet husband to a grand opening/ribbon cutting ceremony of a new factory here that grows hydroponic lettuce. I hope this is right. It was neat to get out for 2 hours without kids - but, as he was schmoosing around, I just stood back and observed all the people. There were all sorts there. Lots of men. Not very many women at all. So I started checking the men out. I am happy to report that my husband had the best hiney in the area. I looked at all of them. (Sorry this is a bad subject. I need some happy thoughts, people). Seriously. I looked at his. I looked at another. And then another. He won everytime. I guess lettuce that grows in water makes you bored like that, huh.
Our anniversary is this weekend. I am also happy to report that we have survived being married 2000 years. That is 1999 longer than Dave expected. Whew! What an ordeal. It has been tough, but he has hung in there.
Church is tonight. Then my next days are filled with 2 funerals, a possible basketball game, 2 tests at school tomorrow *not in that order* and maybe some sushi. After 2000 years, a girl deserves sushi, right?
Dave's distant cousin passed away from cancer. She was young - only 28 - and she had a 2 year old. That is a sweet baby that will never know it's momma. That is a child without a mom to be there for all the important things. And that leaves a set of parents who have lost a child at just 28 years old.
Others in our area have passed away recently, too. Just last week, a girl from high school died after a long bout of cancer. She was only 35. She never got married, had babies, or got to do any of the stuff I take for granted. It was difficult to go to her funeral. There are so many woulda, coulda, shouldas.
I think because I am a mom that I tend to focus on the parents of these people who are not living very many years. I can't imagine what my life would be without my kids - and I don't want to ever have to. I can't fathom what losing a child is like.
Oh, well. I have got to change the subject.
On to other news -- let's see... I have been working all week during spring break. Dave has been at home with the kids.. I left early yesterday and went with my sweet husband to a grand opening/ribbon cutting ceremony of a new factory here that grows hydroponic lettuce. I hope this is right. It was neat to get out for 2 hours without kids - but, as he was schmoosing around, I just stood back and observed all the people. There were all sorts there. Lots of men. Not very many women at all. So I started checking the men out. I am happy to report that my husband had the best hiney in the area. I looked at all of them. (Sorry this is a bad subject. I need some happy thoughts, people). Seriously. I looked at his. I looked at another. And then another. He won everytime. I guess lettuce that grows in water makes you bored like that, huh.
Our anniversary is this weekend. I am also happy to report that we have survived being married 2000 years. That is 1999 longer than Dave expected. Whew! What an ordeal. It has been tough, but he has hung in there.
Church is tonight. Then my next days are filled with 2 funerals, a possible basketball game, 2 tests at school tomorrow *not in that order* and maybe some sushi. After 2000 years, a girl deserves sushi, right?
Monday, March 16, 2009
A new blogger!
Look who has been pressured to be like all the other kids...
Welcome, sweet daddy, to the world of blogging!
Welcome, sweet daddy, to the world of blogging!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Eli went to lunch.
My super cute 13 year old son was giddy today. Is is possible to describe a 13 year old boy as giddy? Well, this boy was giggling, bouncing and jovial. I didn't think it was quite possible to hear an actual giggle come from a boy with an often off pitched voice due to puberty, but today, I saw it happen.
And I wasn't sure whether I wanted to laugh or cry. So I did both.
Here's the story. Eli has a certain friend. "She" is a cutie. We all go to the same church together, and I know that Eli and "she" are really good friends.
Her dad invited Eli to go to lunch with them today after church services.
Eli runs thru the parking lot, finds me and tells me what happened.... "Mom, her dad invited me to lunch with them. DoyouhavemoneycanIgopleasepleaseplease?!?!"
What he said next brought me tears...
"Its a magnificent and marvelous moment."
I went and found Dave so he could witness Eli's giddy-ness, then we borrowed some money for Eli's lunch (a boy can't go broke, and he also kept saying "I wish I had my wallet"). My boy was a little nervous. He asked me to go with him to meet her parents so they would know it was ok. So I did. Her mother was laughing so hard. She knows the situation.
Off he went, in the car, to lunch - with this girl who is his "friend" and her parents.
Lot's of times, he doesn't need me. He can make his own food and do his own laundry. But today - just for a moment, he needed me and he needed my support. That one phrase "Come with me, Mom" meant so much. I know that my job as a parent is to raise a productive adult - but, boy - this is hard. I hate letting go. I guess it would be easier if I could prepare. But some things hit you when you aren't looking. This sweet little boy who stared at me with those big blue eyes the first time I held him, who resisted when I taught him to read, who loved me to sing him "our special song" until age 7 - he is really growing up. I knew how sad I was a couple of weeks ago when he officially hit the teenage years - but today it hit me like a ton of bricks.
And I wasn't sure whether I wanted to laugh or cry. So I did both.
Here's the story. Eli has a certain friend. "She" is a cutie. We all go to the same church together, and I know that Eli and "she" are really good friends.
Her dad invited Eli to go to lunch with them today after church services.
Eli runs thru the parking lot, finds me and tells me what happened.... "Mom, her dad invited me to lunch with them. DoyouhavemoneycanIgopleasepleaseplease?!?!"
What he said next brought me tears...
"Its a magnificent and marvelous moment."
I went and found Dave so he could witness Eli's giddy-ness, then we borrowed some money for Eli's lunch (a boy can't go broke, and he also kept saying "I wish I had my wallet"). My boy was a little nervous. He asked me to go with him to meet her parents so they would know it was ok. So I did. Her mother was laughing so hard. She knows the situation.
Off he went, in the car, to lunch - with this girl who is his "friend" and her parents.
Lot's of times, he doesn't need me. He can make his own food and do his own laundry. But today - just for a moment, he needed me and he needed my support. That one phrase "Come with me, Mom" meant so much. I know that my job as a parent is to raise a productive adult - but, boy - this is hard. I hate letting go. I guess it would be easier if I could prepare. But some things hit you when you aren't looking. This sweet little boy who stared at me with those big blue eyes the first time I held him, who resisted when I taught him to read, who loved me to sing him "our special song" until age 7 - he is really growing up. I knew how sad I was a couple of weeks ago when he officially hit the teenage years - but today it hit me like a ton of bricks.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Long and slow weekend.
Ah, Saturday.. Just hanging out now.
We went to Prayer Breakfast at church this morning... and this afternoon, we are off to a Championship basketball game.
Emma is having a sleepover tonight. That should be fun. She is having a friend from out of town, and my fourth child, Mallie. Three girls that are five years old. There is so much fighting that is going to be done tonight. Girls start their bickering early. Boys are so much easier that way.
I have to go back to school next week. Spring break has been nice. But, it was too short. I don't feel as though I am ever going to finish school. My kids are on break next week. It will be interesting to try to balance my school work, my "real" work, home and them being with me. But, it is only for one week.
We went to Prayer Breakfast at church this morning... and this afternoon, we are off to a Championship basketball game.
Emma is having a sleepover tonight. That should be fun. She is having a friend from out of town, and my fourth child, Mallie. Three girls that are five years old. There is so much fighting that is going to be done tonight. Girls start their bickering early. Boys are so much easier that way.
I have to go back to school next week. Spring break has been nice. But, it was too short. I don't feel as though I am ever going to finish school. My kids are on break next week. It will be interesting to try to balance my school work, my "real" work, home and them being with me. But, it is only for one week.
Friday, March 13, 2009
She's into choreography, too.
Emma has her notebook in front of her... she has written down all her "dance steps."
This was last night - and she was going from room to room making her brothers and I watch her performance. She would yell,"Five, Six, Seven, Eight. Step right, step left, shuffle step, turn and turn."
And she would always throw the book down in front of her before she did it.
So, she moves into the livingroom where Tripp is watching tv. Spongebob, I think.
And she says,"Tripp, watch this." She throws down the book, and starts again.
Tripp is not amused.
He chucks the remote at her. And hits her.
She picks up the book and runs to Eli. And then, she starts over.
I guess three year olds don't appreciate good choreography.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Tag - I am it!
Mel tagged me! Yay!
Confession Survey
1)What is your blogger name? mommytothree
2) When is your birthday?May 29, 1975
3) How long have you been blogging? Since January
4) Who tagged you? Mel
5 ) Tell me your 5 most favorite body parts: on Dave - 1. his calves 2. his smile 3. his hiney 4. his arms 5. his eyes
6) What do you wish most for your birthday? to spend the night alone in a hotel
7) What color are your nails now? hot pink
8) Any depressing thoughts lately? oh, let's see - I am worried about money.
9) What's your next 1 month's plan? To play with the kids outside.
10) At what age did you have your 1st crush? age 2
11) Did you attend any school reunion after you graduated till now? NOPE and don't plan on it
12) Are you a clean freak? can be.... but it doesn't do any good
13) Which era do you wish you were born into? I want to be Laura Ingalls Wilder - a prairie teacher without having to go to college... wear cool dresses and not have all the food temptations.
14) Are you a vegetarian? NOPE
15) How many pillows do you sleep with at night?2 - Dave and another "real" pillow
16) Are you a light sleeper or an I-don't-care-if-there's-a-bomb-here sleeper? Light sometimes - but sometimes I am a "pretend" sleeper.
17) Do you secretly wear comfortable granny panties when your man is not around? Yes - and bras that do not match just to get back at him. :)
18) What is your ultimate dream job? I am doing it. I am a mommy.
19) What is it your hubby does that annoys you the most? Tell me how to cook - like he is a better cook than me.
20) What is your dream car? I don't know. Never thought about it.
21) Do you easily wake up in the morning? nope.
22) Do you like hairy men? NOPE
23) How about goateed men? yep.. alot. alot.. alot....
24) Which one would you prefer, 2 hour spa, 2 hour Thai Massage or 2 hour foot massage? 2 hour spa
25) Have you ever wished you had a different name other than your real name? used to.
26) What is the most extreme sport you have ever done? bronc riding
27) Do you prefer traveling in Europe or Asia? Europe
28) What is your favorite food? chocolate
29) What is the most embarrassing moment when you were out on a date? What a question? Now I have been scanning all my old date memories. I am having bad flashbacks. Probably have nightmares tonight.
Here are the rules:
Copy and paste the whole questionnaire and replace my answers with yours. You have to create a link for the blogger who tagged you. Pass to 4 other bloggers. Display the logo anywhere on your blog. Last, answer each question with the truth, and nothing but the TRUTH...this is a confession tag, you know.
Confession Survey
1)What is your blogger name? mommytothree
2) When is your birthday?May 29, 1975
3) How long have you been blogging? Since January
4) Who tagged you? Mel
5 ) Tell me your 5 most favorite body parts: on Dave - 1. his calves 2. his smile 3. his hiney 4. his arms 5. his eyes
6) What do you wish most for your birthday? to spend the night alone in a hotel
7) What color are your nails now? hot pink
8) Any depressing thoughts lately? oh, let's see - I am worried about money.
9) What's your next 1 month's plan? To play with the kids outside.
10) At what age did you have your 1st crush? age 2
11) Did you attend any school reunion after you graduated till now? NOPE and don't plan on it
12) Are you a clean freak? can be.... but it doesn't do any good
13) Which era do you wish you were born into? I want to be Laura Ingalls Wilder - a prairie teacher without having to go to college... wear cool dresses and not have all the food temptations.
14) Are you a vegetarian? NOPE
15) How many pillows do you sleep with at night?2 - Dave and another "real" pillow
16) Are you a light sleeper or an I-don't-care-if-there's-a-bomb-here sleeper? Light sometimes - but sometimes I am a "pretend" sleeper.
17) Do you secretly wear comfortable granny panties when your man is not around? Yes - and bras that do not match just to get back at him. :)
18) What is your ultimate dream job? I am doing it. I am a mommy.
19) What is it your hubby does that annoys you the most? Tell me how to cook - like he is a better cook than me.
20) What is your dream car? I don't know. Never thought about it.
21) Do you easily wake up in the morning? nope.
22) Do you like hairy men? NOPE
23) How about goateed men? yep.. alot. alot.. alot....
24) Which one would you prefer, 2 hour spa, 2 hour Thai Massage or 2 hour foot massage? 2 hour spa
25) Have you ever wished you had a different name other than your real name? used to.
26) What is the most extreme sport you have ever done? bronc riding
27) Do you prefer traveling in Europe or Asia? Europe
28) What is your favorite food? chocolate
29) What is the most embarrassing moment when you were out on a date? What a question? Now I have been scanning all my old date memories. I am having bad flashbacks. Probably have nightmares tonight.
Here are the rules:
Copy and paste the whole questionnaire and replace my answers with yours. You have to create a link for the blogger who tagged you. Pass to 4 other bloggers. Display the logo anywhere on your blog. Last, answer each question with the truth, and nothing but the TRUTH...this is a confession tag, you know.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Letter to Me.
I heard a really interesting song a while ago... it is by Brad Paisley.. titled "Letter to Me".
He is essentially writing a letter to his teenage self and telling what he could or would change.
You can look at it here..
I know of at least one very important reader that strongly dislikes country music - but, really, give this song a shot.
So, I have decided to write my teenage self a letter. If you feel so inclined, please participate with me and see what you have learned about yourself. This should be fun!!
He is essentially writing a letter to his teenage self and telling what he could or would change.
You can look at it here..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fqtbMHfpXY
This song made me think about Eli - at age 13 - and how things seem so important at a certain stage, yet not so important as an adult. It made me remember what it was like to be young.I know of at least one very important reader that strongly dislikes country music - but, really, give this song a shot.
So, I have decided to write my teenage self a letter. If you feel so inclined, please participate with me and see what you have learned about yourself. This should be fun!!
Dear Me,
Your parents are nuts. It is not you. Please do all you can, finish school and then start college. It is not cool to finish college at 35. I don't know why noone ever told you how important your grades are, but your schooling will take you everywhere. Study, study, study. Also, your friends are not that cool. Or cute, either.
Church is so important. Please go every chance you get. Know that God is where it is at.
One day, you are going to meet this really cool guy that is so funny. He will end up being the love of your life and the father of your children. So don't waste time on anyone else. Wait on him. He lives in town. He is just a year older than you. Go look for him in the hallway at school. He is blonde and really cute.
What you wear does not make who you are. Even though you are from Rickman, you are a cool person. And you are cute. Appreciate the perkiness of your boobs. And your flat stomach. And your little round hiney. Cause they will not be with you forever. Exercise more. Don't eat so many burgers from Druthers and McDonalds. Lay off the shakes and fries from the DQ.
Go to a high school basketball game. And all the football games. And pay attention at the pep rallys. They could be really fun. Try the Teen Center.
It will all turn out OK. Even better than what you expect.
Love, Me
Look at the babies!
Eli after soccer practice yesterday.
Emma outside playing.
Tripp striking a pose.
Emma got a new haircut today. I will post pictures soon.
Eli got a new haircut last week. See it? It is off his head. Work proactive, please work!
Tripp needs a haircut.
A new family.
I came home from work early yesterday... probably about 11 am. I have had some kind of crud that is going around. Anyways, I really enjoyed my time in the house. Dave was here -on and off- and about 1 something he left to go drive a bus.
I got some rest. And I did some laundry. And some dishes. And listened to some music. And took some cold medicine.
Right before 2 pm, I was at my kitchen window and I thought I saw people outside.
So I looked. And I did see people outside.
Then, I moved to another room. And I still saw the people outside.
And I went to another room. And they were still there.
There was a guy and a kid playing in my yard!
So I went to the livingroom, looked out the window to watch them freely roaming... and I got my camera and took a picture.
This makes me wonder how many days that they have taken advantage of my nice yard? And, mind you, when I first spotted them them, they were thisclose to my kitchen window. When I spotted them out of room #2, he was looking around from side to side to see if anyone was watching.
So, I guess with a new house, I get another family too.
Here they are with
"our" dog Harley.
I got some rest. And I did some laundry. And some dishes. And listened to some music. And took some cold medicine.
Right before 2 pm, I was at my kitchen window and I thought I saw people outside.
So I looked. And I did see people outside.
Then, I moved to another room. And I still saw the people outside.
And I went to another room. And they were still there.
There was a guy and a kid playing in my yard!
So I went to the livingroom, looked out the window to watch them freely roaming... and I got my camera and took a picture.
This makes me wonder how many days that they have taken advantage of my nice yard? And, mind you, when I first spotted them them, they were thisclose to my kitchen window. When I spotted them out of room #2, he was looking around from side to side to see if anyone was watching.
So, I guess with a new house, I get another family too.
Here they are with
"our" dog Harley.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
More "peep" in the bird.
I know this is a terrible picture. But, this is an experiment.
Emma and I bought peeps at the store on Sunday. We had a hard time deciding which to buy... should we get chicks or bunnies? What color? Pink, Yellow, blue or purple? Big packs or little packs?
So, finally we decided that we should do LARGE packs... and She got the purple bunnies while I settled for the blue chicks. What everyone needs to know before I go on is that I, along with Emma, am a lover of peeps. I eat a whole row before I get out of Walgreens parking lot. And, last year, before we had Walgreens, I would drive to Walmart to find the freshest peeps.
After we got home, we were going back and forth between eating bunnies and chicks... I realized that you get more "peep" out of the chick. I think it is it's fat little belly that gives you the most "marshmellow."
I am going to check the back of both boxes to see if the chicks have more calories. FYI - there is about 25 calories for each peep. And I don't care. I would rather be fat that do without my Easter peeps.
On to more pressing information- Bob the Builder and Batman came downstairs Sunday night INSTEAD of Emma and Tripp in pajamas.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Weekend Capers.
Spring is coming!!
I picked a nice vase of Easter Flowers a while ago... Ah, the temperature is starting to warm up. I can't wait!
I am on spring break this week. My kids are on next week. It is time go stay outside and play. They are tired of being in the house. So am I.
We have had a busy weekend. I got alot of housework done on Saturday morning... but you can't tell it now. I did not get laundry finished. And, it is too late to do it now. My desire is gone. It won't return till next Saturday morning.
Pa's birthday party went very well. He seemed suprised. And I guess he liked having all the kids together.
Soccer season starts soon. Eli is playing middle school soccer, Emma is still in ballet and tap AND is playing girls six and under softball *grandma is coaching*, AND Tripp is playing soccer and baseball, too. This will be a busy season, that is for sure.
I picked a nice vase of Easter Flowers a while ago... Ah, the temperature is starting to warm up. I can't wait!
I am on spring break this week. My kids are on next week. It is time go stay outside and play. They are tired of being in the house. So am I.
We have had a busy weekend. I got alot of housework done on Saturday morning... but you can't tell it now. I did not get laundry finished. And, it is too late to do it now. My desire is gone. It won't return till next Saturday morning.
Pa's birthday party went very well. He seemed suprised. And I guess he liked having all the kids together.
Soccer season starts soon. Eli is playing middle school soccer, Emma is still in ballet and tap AND is playing girls six and under softball *grandma is coaching*, AND Tripp is playing soccer and baseball, too. This will be a busy season, that is for sure.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Friday Night Blues.
I think I am going to start all my posts with song titles. I bet Dave can tell me who sings them all.
This song is one of my favorites. It takes me back.... to a good friend, Mad Dog, and lots of tears. But, never mind. That is a different story for another day..
Dave and I were going to be alone tonight. All night long. Ha ha! I kill myself!!!
Well, the short story is that Tripp ended up coming home from his sleepover with Lochlan, Emma stayed with Alexandra, and Eli is still at the church retreat.
Two out of three ain't bad. whoo hoo! ok, I am quitting.
I was so excited, yet I am just as excited to see my little Tripper Do.
I am thankful for my kids and I am thankful for Dave. So, so much.
I am on spring break next week. I am so thankful not to have homework. I just finished an all day mid term. It was from Satan. I literally worked on it all day. It was so hard.
Tomorrow is my dad's suprise birthday party. He has had a bad week with his blood pressure and he doesn't feel good at all. He scares me so bad sometimes. He came in the office yesterday afternoon and he was all red and pretty confused. And he was very confused this afternoon. I am also thankful to still have him here with me.
I guess this post is going nowhere.
I got to spend time with my "little" brother tonight. I am thankful for the relationship I have with him, also. And, I am thankful for his lovely wife and that sweet little boy of his.
I got an email from a lady in our congregation today. It made me cry. It was so nice. I am thankful for her.
Well, this is a thankful post, I guess.
Here is a picture of emma and tripp eating breakfast on the porch last spring. They are giving thanks. Dave took this picture and they did not know it.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
I'm not worth much at all.
I came home for lunch today. As I stopped and checked the mail, I scanned thru the assorted envelopes to see if we had won a million dollars, or if anyone had mailed us a huge check. What I found was a letter from the Social Security Administration. While tearing it open, I had visions in my head of what I was going to do with all the money they were returning after mistakenly taking it from me over the years.
What I found out was that I am pretty much worthless.
I have been a stay at home mom for the last 9'ish years. Oh, I may have worked a "real" job on and off... I spent 4 years at the Y watching other people's children. I gave birth - twice in under two years, mind you. I have rocked my babies, cleaned vomit, wiped noses, sat up all night with a crying child who had a 105 degree fever. I have cleaned butts, listened to sob stories, fixed breakfast, lunch and sometimes dinner. I changed 1,209,863 diapers. I hugged, I kissed, I tickled and I sang. But, that is not a real job.
These tasks are not considered to be worth any money. See, I found out today that IF I met an untimely death, my sweet husband would only get $583 a month. He couldn't even feed these kids with that. And, IF I so happen to make it to age 62, my retirement will be a whopping $210 a month. I will be age 62 in the year 2037. Imagine the economy. That is going to be a tank of gas. Or a Big Mac.
So, I am not really worth anything. But, someone tell me this. Why couldn't I get retirement on mothering? Should I not get any retirement for choosing to stay at home and raising productive citizens? How about a quarter a diaper? Or a dollar bonus for every doctors visit?
Isn't mothering the most important - and most difficult - job in the universe? It sure is, but it will not get you retirement. All I get is a paper in the mail that says that when I am old, I will be broke. I guess that is why my kids better be productive. I am going to have to live with them.
What I found out was that I am pretty much worthless.
I have been a stay at home mom for the last 9'ish years. Oh, I may have worked a "real" job on and off... I spent 4 years at the Y watching other people's children. I gave birth - twice in under two years, mind you. I have rocked my babies, cleaned vomit, wiped noses, sat up all night with a crying child who had a 105 degree fever. I have cleaned butts, listened to sob stories, fixed breakfast, lunch and sometimes dinner. I changed 1,209,863 diapers. I hugged, I kissed, I tickled and I sang. But, that is not a real job.
These tasks are not considered to be worth any money. See, I found out today that IF I met an untimely death, my sweet husband would only get $583 a month. He couldn't even feed these kids with that. And, IF I so happen to make it to age 62, my retirement will be a whopping $210 a month. I will be age 62 in the year 2037. Imagine the economy. That is going to be a tank of gas. Or a Big Mac.
So, I am not really worth anything. But, someone tell me this. Why couldn't I get retirement on mothering? Should I not get any retirement for choosing to stay at home and raising productive citizens? How about a quarter a diaper? Or a dollar bonus for every doctors visit?
Isn't mothering the most important - and most difficult - job in the universe? It sure is, but it will not get you retirement. All I get is a paper in the mail that says that when I am old, I will be broke. I guess that is why my kids better be productive. I am going to have to live with them.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Look at what happens when a boy crashes out.
After staying up ALL night, inhaling junk food,
and P A R T Y I N G all night long, Eli went down.
This was waaayyy after lunch.
Matthew gave him a stuffed pig to sleep with.
Matthew gave him a stuffed pig to sleep with.
And shaving creamed his nose, for good measure.
Then, he got his toes painted a lovely shade of purple,
Then, he got his toes painted a lovely shade of purple,
courtesy of Grandma.
Dad thought he would be great with a bucket on his head.
And lots of baby shampoo, too.
Grandma thought he would look better with a
custom Amish bonnet to adorn his head.
Matthew thought that he looked better with a few more pigs.
We woke him up, hoping he would cry. He didn't.
He went right back to sleep. All that for nothing.
Happy 13th Birthday, Eli. Sorry we enjoy torturing you..
But it is so much fun. You scream like a girl.
Love, Your Momma.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Harshing the Mello. (or maybe Mellow)
Eli came to Emma's school to read to Grades K to 4 yesterday. Both Dave and myself were there also, as we were asked to read some super Dr. Suess for Read Across America day.
As Eli was walking down the hall with his class, I joined him. Most of the 7th graders said hi. I have known these kids since kindergarden. Eli told me to go on - I was "harshing his mellow."
I still got some good pictures.
Emma was a "Thing" - see the blue hair?
Eli reading to Emma.
Daddy came by to read.
As Eli was walking down the hall with his class, I joined him. Most of the 7th graders said hi. I have known these kids since kindergarden. Eli told me to go on - I was "harshing his mellow."
I still got some good pictures.
Emma was a "Thing" - see the blue hair?
Eli reading to Emma.
Daddy came by to read.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Oh what a feeling. Lizards on the ceiling.
See how witty I am? Dave will get it.
Tripp threw his lizard on the ceiling some time ago. It is not there now, and I really don't know how it got down.
As a mother, I am able to tune things out. Like lizards that stick on the ceiling - they don't bother me none at all.
As for the weekend update, well, let's see.... Eli turned 13. Traumatic for me. I tried to do a Tribute to Eli's Birth post on Saturday morning. I ended up crying after one paragraph.
He had a sleepover Friday night. Along with his three bestest friends, Eli consumed massive amounts of cupcakes, pizza, cola in all varieties and many, many Doritos. In fact, those boys ate so much food and played so many video games that they stayed up ALL NIGHT. (I will be posting pictures one day this week.) Thankfully, this did not happen at my house. We re-routed them to Grandma's basement, where they proceeded to disturb both her and my sweet husband. Emma and I got out easy - all boys left for the evening. We went out to a Girls' Dinner *at the Apple Dish* and then got groceries. When we arrived home, we got into jammies, sang songs, and cuddled in the big comfy bed with a remote. Emma proclaimed it "the best night of her life." All was good.
Cleaning, cleaning, cleaning. That is what the weekend consisted of. We are starting to come together. Pictures are coming up. Clothes are finding a home. I got the basement cleaned. That is huge in itself.
Tomorrow is Dr. Suess Day. I forget what it is called.. Oh, it is Read Across America. Emma's teacher asked if I would like to start this day of reading off with The Cat in the Hat... So, I am going over in the morning. She has to wear red. And they are painting all kids' hair blue.
I am a lesson behind in one class. I need to study tonight. What I really want to do is put the kids to bed and hang out with Dave.
That is all that is going on now.
I hope my one really good friend will call me for lunch this week.
Tripp threw his lizard on the ceiling some time ago. It is not there now, and I really don't know how it got down.As a mother, I am able to tune things out. Like lizards that stick on the ceiling - they don't bother me none at all.
As for the weekend update, well, let's see.... Eli turned 13. Traumatic for me. I tried to do a Tribute to Eli's Birth post on Saturday morning. I ended up crying after one paragraph.He had a sleepover Friday night. Along with his three bestest friends, Eli consumed massive amounts of cupcakes, pizza, cola in all varieties and many, many Doritos. In fact, those boys ate so much food and played so many video games that they stayed up ALL NIGHT. (I will be posting pictures one day this week.) Thankfully, this did not happen at my house. We re-routed them to Grandma's basement, where they proceeded to disturb both her and my sweet husband. Emma and I got out easy - all boys left for the evening. We went out to a Girls' Dinner *at the Apple Dish* and then got groceries. When we arrived home, we got into jammies, sang songs, and cuddled in the big comfy bed with a remote. Emma proclaimed it "the best night of her life." All was good.
Cleaning, cleaning, cleaning. That is what the weekend consisted of. We are starting to come together. Pictures are coming up. Clothes are finding a home. I got the basement cleaned. That is huge in itself.
Tomorrow is Dr. Suess Day. I forget what it is called.. Oh, it is Read Across America. Emma's teacher asked if I would like to start this day of reading off with The Cat in the Hat... So, I am going over in the morning. She has to wear red. And they are painting all kids' hair blue.
I am a lesson behind in one class. I need to study tonight. What I really want to do is put the kids to bed and hang out with Dave.
That is all that is going on now.
I hope my one really good friend will call me for lunch this week.
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