We are a God-loving family, and life for us is wonderful! We love to stay busy with our children, read the bible, and just spend time as a family. Even though life for us can get chaotic, we would not change it for anything!
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Norwex party
Tonight a good friend was having a Norwex party and I decided to go. It was really interesting to see how the cleaning cloths and products work. I have seen and heard a little here and there about this company, but this was the first time I have actually seen a full demonstration. The demonstrator actually took raw chicken and rubbed it all over the counter. She then took out a bacteria tester stick and tested the counter. After doing this she then cleaned up the spill with just the cleaning cloth, not any kind of cleaner. Next she retested the counter again, and we watched it have a completely different result, completely clean! It was CRAZY!
In the end, I ordered a cleaning cloth, the polisher cloth, and the laundry detergent. Time will tell if I become a "convert" and get rid of my cleaning products. I hope I really like it, it would so nice to save money by not having to purchase as many products and would help my children stay healthier. We will see, but I am optimistic. :)
In the end, I ordered a cleaning cloth, the polisher cloth, and the laundry detergent. Time will tell if I become a "convert" and get rid of my cleaning products. I hope I really like it, it would so nice to save money by not having to purchase as many products and would help my children stay healthier. We will see, but I am optimistic. :)
Monday, July 29, 2013
Getting ready for the school year!
Today was the annual uniform swap at my children's school. I love the fact that our school offers this every year. At this swap, I am able to sell my children's old school uniforms that do not fit anymore, and pick up some more that do fit. Brand new uniforms are so expensive, this is a great way to make it more affordable. Our kids are still fitting into a lot of the same clothes from last year, so they really only needed a couple things that had gotten worn out throughout the year.
Now that the uniform swap is over, it is time to really look at what they have and what they need. I am pretty sure we have all the clothes we need now, but will definitely purchase new shoes for them both. Is it just me, or do kids CONSTANTLY outgrow their shoes?!? Prince just needs a good pair of athletic shoes, but of course Princess is her Momma's girl. She wants new boots, new dress shoes, and new athletic shoes. When we get to the store, we will see which of those she actually gets. (If you do not know me well, you might not realize the I LOVE shoes ;) )
We are also still waiting to find out who their teachers are so we can get their school supplies. Last year we spent way too much on school supplies, I am hoping this year isn't as expensive. We will see.
Now that the uniform swap is over, it is time to really look at what they have and what they need. I am pretty sure we have all the clothes we need now, but will definitely purchase new shoes for them both. Is it just me, or do kids CONSTANTLY outgrow their shoes?!? Prince just needs a good pair of athletic shoes, but of course Princess is her Momma's girl. She wants new boots, new dress shoes, and new athletic shoes. When we get to the store, we will see which of those she actually gets. (If you do not know me well, you might not realize the I LOVE shoes ;) )
We are also still waiting to find out who their teachers are so we can get their school supplies. Last year we spent way too much on school supplies, I am hoping this year isn't as expensive. We will see.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Lazy Sunday
Today was a pretty lazy day for us. We all slept in (Brian the longest!). I woke up first around 9 am, the kids about 10:30, and Brian at 11. I had a very relaxing morning sitting on our deck, reading a book. The air felt great, not too hot or cold, and the birds were chirping. It was just a nice, quiet morning to myself.
This afternoon, the kids and I worked on our Monopoly game. Monopoly games for us take HOURS, so when we play, we usually just play for an hour or two and then resume the game at a later time. To make sure the pieces do not get moved around, we simply take pictures of the game board.
Overall, today was a pretty lazy Sunday, which was just fine for us!
This afternoon, the kids and I worked on our Monopoly game. Monopoly games for us take HOURS, so when we play, we usually just play for an hour or two and then resume the game at a later time. To make sure the pieces do not get moved around, we simply take pictures of the game board.
Overall, today was a pretty lazy Sunday, which was just fine for us!
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Belated Anniversary
With Brian being gone for the last few weeks, we were not able to celebrate our anniversary on the actual day. Instead, we went out this afternoon for a little tubing on the river. It was a lot of fun, but felt so much cooler than when I went just last week, the water seemed a lot higher too. Apparently, Brian and I have two completely different ideas on how to go tubing. I like to just let the current take me all over the river, while he likes to stay down the middle. To me, it is more fun to almost ping pong across the river, going over the rapids and pushing off the rocks as they come. He, on the other hand, loves to paddle, paddle, paddle. He was constantly paddling to stay in the middle. Regardless of our individual tubing styles, it was a blast. After the river, we picked up a late lunch and headed home to get ready for my work party.
This evening, the four of us headed over to my work for a "school is starting soon" get-together. We had dinner there, and then played volleyball. It was wonderful to see the amazing staff at our school. I love my co-workers, and it was nice to be able to get all of our families together and let all the kids play.
We are now back at home, resting from a busy day. It was a great day, and a wonderful way to celebrate our 11th anniversary!
This evening, the four of us headed over to my work for a "school is starting soon" get-together. We had dinner there, and then played volleyball. It was wonderful to see the amazing staff at our school. I love my co-workers, and it was nice to be able to get all of our families together and let all the kids play.
We are now back at home, resting from a busy day. It was a great day, and a wonderful way to celebrate our 11th anniversary!
Friday, July 26, 2013
Faithful Fridays
Have you ever just felt like nothing was going right? That you could not find a way out of the situation you are in? I know I feel like this every once in awhile. The last couple years, I have noticed that when I bring these troubles to the Lord, I get a feeling of peace. I have also found that when I stop worrying, and start having faith, that is when I can see the mercies of God around me.
Proverbs 3:5-6
5Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. NASB
Psalms 29:11
The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace. NASB
Matthew 7:7-8
"7Ask, and it will be given to you; and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks find, and to him who knocks it will be opened." NASB
John 20:29
"Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed." NASB
Psalms 27:14
Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the Lord NASB
I do not know about you, but for me the peace of God is a wonderful and powerful thing. I am so grateful that we have a merciful God!
Proverbs 3:5-6
5Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. NASB
Psalms 29:11
The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace. NASB
Matthew 7:7-8
"7Ask, and it will be given to you; and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks find, and to him who knocks it will be opened." NASB
John 20:29
"Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed." NASB
Psalms 27:14
Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the Lord NASB
I do not know about you, but for me the peace of God is a wonderful and powerful thing. I am so grateful that we have a merciful God!
Thursday, July 25, 2013
"Greatest day ever!"
Today was a fabulous day for us! I took the kids to the local water park to spend the day with friends of ours. We have gone to other water parks, but not for a long time, and not to this particular park.
We arrived when the park opened, and got a wonderful parking space! It was a great way to start the day! By the time we got in and settled, our friends were starting to arrive. Over all, there was four of us Moms with our children.
Some of the things we did was the wave pool (several times), the lazy river, the little kid area, the rope swing, a lily pond hop thing (do not know what the real name was), and of course, we went on water slides! It was so fun!
The kids had a blast and so did I! Prince and I got a little bit sunburnt, but fortunately, not too bad. I was pretty strict about using sunscreen multiple times throughout the day. Prince and I both are pretty fair, with him more so than me, and sunscreen at a water park is a must. Luckily for Princess, she has very nice, naturally dark olive skin and does not easily burn.
On the way home, Prince informed me that today was "the greatest day ever!" I would have to agree with his sentiment!
We arrived when the park opened, and got a wonderful parking space! It was a great way to start the day! By the time we got in and settled, our friends were starting to arrive. Over all, there was four of us Moms with our children.
Some of the things we did was the wave pool (several times), the lazy river, the little kid area, the rope swing, a lily pond hop thing (do not know what the real name was), and of course, we went on water slides! It was so fun!
The kids had a blast and so did I! Prince and I got a little bit sunburnt, but fortunately, not too bad. I was pretty strict about using sunscreen multiple times throughout the day. Prince and I both are pretty fair, with him more so than me, and sunscreen at a water park is a must. Luckily for Princess, she has very nice, naturally dark olive skin and does not easily burn.
On the way home, Prince informed me that today was "the greatest day ever!" I would have to agree with his sentiment!
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Fireworks
Tonight was a lot of fun. Here in Utah, we have a random state holiday (I realize the significance, so please do not think I am ignorant), and it is annually celebrated with fireworks. This evening, the kids and I headed over to a friend's house, where we were able to sit and share their firework display. It was a great evening, and a lot of fun.
I do not know how much of my background you know, but I was born and raised in Southern California. Where I grew up, you absolutely did NOT do your own fireworks. It was against the law, and probably for a good reason. Knowing some of the people I grew up around, there would probably be even more fires there than there is now, and that is saying a lot. There, you go to the local park and watch some really magnificent firework displays, all choreographed to music. And it only happened once a year on the Fourth of July.
Here it is totally different. Everyone does their own displays. In addition, you can do them three times a year, for a few days each holiday! It is crazy! ;) The first holiday is New Year's, then the Fourth of July, and finally on July 24. Watching your own displays are a lot more exciting than I ever expected them to be, although they can be very dangerous too! Last night we were at a BBQ, and one of the kids got hit on the leg by the fireworks and was burned pretty badly.
It is interesting to see my children grow up in a totally different culture than the one I grew up in. I love watching fireworks here, but I still do miss the huge displays back home too. I suppose I should just start a tradition of going back for the fourth, and then being home for the 24th. I bet my parents would love to see us on a more scheduled basis! Although, now that I have been away for a while, I can not stand the California summers! Last time we were there I was dieing! It was hot and super muggy compared to anything we get here. Oh well!
So, the moral of today's lesson, I LOVE FIREWORKS!
I do not know how much of my background you know, but I was born and raised in Southern California. Where I grew up, you absolutely did NOT do your own fireworks. It was against the law, and probably for a good reason. Knowing some of the people I grew up around, there would probably be even more fires there than there is now, and that is saying a lot. There, you go to the local park and watch some really magnificent firework displays, all choreographed to music. And it only happened once a year on the Fourth of July.
Here it is totally different. Everyone does their own displays. In addition, you can do them three times a year, for a few days each holiday! It is crazy! ;) The first holiday is New Year's, then the Fourth of July, and finally on July 24. Watching your own displays are a lot more exciting than I ever expected them to be, although they can be very dangerous too! Last night we were at a BBQ, and one of the kids got hit on the leg by the fireworks and was burned pretty badly.
It is interesting to see my children grow up in a totally different culture than the one I grew up in. I love watching fireworks here, but I still do miss the huge displays back home too. I suppose I should just start a tradition of going back for the fourth, and then being home for the 24th. I bet my parents would love to see us on a more scheduled basis! Although, now that I have been away for a while, I can not stand the California summers! Last time we were there I was dieing! It was hot and super muggy compared to anything we get here. Oh well!
So, the moral of today's lesson, I LOVE FIREWORKS!
Nails
Princess loves having her nails done.
Clearly we need some practice, but it definitely could have been worse! :)
Well, she is now learning to paint nails too. She is painting my toes as we speak!
Not bad after I cleaned them up! Pretty darn good for a first time!
School has started...
So the title of this post might be a bit misleading. The kids have NOT gone back to school yet, but I have! I recently made the decision to stop going to the local community college, and head on over to University of Phoenix to finish my bachelor's degree. This was a huge decision for me. I have been going to college for YEARS and really have nothing to show for it (other than knowledge of course). I am tired of it, and just want to be done. So my plan is this, I am completing a bachelor's in elementary education. As you might know, I work for a FABULOUS elementary school and have found that I absolutely love working with this age of kids. It is such a wonderful experience to watch them grow and learn. I really want to continue to be a part of that by teaching. So for the next little while, I will be working in the school during the day, and going to school on my computer at home at night so that I can finish my own education.
School for me officially started yesterday. This first class with this school is really quite boring. It is basically a class that teaches me for their school works. Only into day 2, and my personal mantra is going to be, "I can do this! Just keep going!" The movie Finding Nemo comes to mind. If you haven't seen it (you should!), there is a fish names Dori in it and she says, "Just keep swimming, just keep swimming!" (I obviously have seen it WAY too much, but Prince went through a phase where this is ALL he wanted to do.)
I know the ideal situation is that you complete your education before you have children, but I was only 19 when I had Prince and 21 when I had Princess. My two children have seen me go through college, major after major, trying to find what I really wanted to do with my life. I love history, and have always gravitated towards history type majors. While I know I should have just finished (I did at one point back when I was 21, but obviously it did not stick and I hated the career), I find that I can use my learning experience as a learning experience to my children. I am teaching them that education IS important, that we should all get as much knowledge as possible. I am also teaching them that perseverance is the key, to never stop learning and to just keep going.
With my different majors that I have had over the years, I do not regret them. The knowledge that I have learned in a variety of subjects has made me who I am. I love the fact that I have studied anthropology, art history, nursing, archeology, American history, and education. I absolutely love learning, and now I have a broad knowledge of several different subjects that I would not have, had I followed the traditional path.
I also have to say, that had my husband and family not been supportive of me, I would not have been able to study as much as I have in the past. It is only because of them that I have learned as much as I have. I have the best family in the world! (By the way, my husband really is tired of me going to school, but does not tell me to stop and continues to support my education!)
I am very psyched for this new phase of my life! I can not wait to get into the heart of my education program and push through until the very end!
School for me officially started yesterday. This first class with this school is really quite boring. It is basically a class that teaches me for their school works. Only into day 2, and my personal mantra is going to be, "I can do this! Just keep going!" The movie Finding Nemo comes to mind. If you haven't seen it (you should!), there is a fish names Dori in it and she says, "Just keep swimming, just keep swimming!" (I obviously have seen it WAY too much, but Prince went through a phase where this is ALL he wanted to do.)
I know the ideal situation is that you complete your education before you have children, but I was only 19 when I had Prince and 21 when I had Princess. My two children have seen me go through college, major after major, trying to find what I really wanted to do with my life. I love history, and have always gravitated towards history type majors. While I know I should have just finished (I did at one point back when I was 21, but obviously it did not stick and I hated the career), I find that I can use my learning experience as a learning experience to my children. I am teaching them that education IS important, that we should all get as much knowledge as possible. I am also teaching them that perseverance is the key, to never stop learning and to just keep going.
With my different majors that I have had over the years, I do not regret them. The knowledge that I have learned in a variety of subjects has made me who I am. I love the fact that I have studied anthropology, art history, nursing, archeology, American history, and education. I absolutely love learning, and now I have a broad knowledge of several different subjects that I would not have, had I followed the traditional path.
I also have to say, that had my husband and family not been supportive of me, I would not have been able to study as much as I have in the past. It is only because of them that I have learned as much as I have. I have the best family in the world! (By the way, my husband really is tired of me going to school, but does not tell me to stop and continues to support my education!)
I am very psyched for this new phase of my life! I can not wait to get into the heart of my education program and push through until the very end!
Monday, July 22, 2013
Brian's home!
First of all, Brian came home today!!! Yea!!! Automatically, that makes today a wonderful day!
The kids helped me do a few things around the house that we (I) wanted done before Brian came home. After we were done, we just sat around waiting, waiting, and waiting. Finally about 2:30, the moment finally came. I know it sounds over dramatic, and probably is, but I can not help it. It was wonderful seeing the love of my life after being away for two weeks. Especially when he missed our 11 year anniversary.
Needless to say, the kids were so excited to see their Dad, and so was our dog Bentley. Bentley gets so sad when Brian goes away. When he comes home from trips, Bentley follows Brian around, it is really cute. It is like he doesn't want him to leave his sight.
After relaxing a bit, my wonderful husband decided to work in the yard. Without being asked! When did I get so lucky? He pulled weeds and trimmed back the trees and the bushes in the yard. It was really nice, although, I think the trees look small again, but totally understand why they needed the trim that they got.
This evening, as bedtime loomed closer, both of the kids started not feeling well. They were complaining of headaches and stomachaches :( We have a fun day planned tomorrow, so I hope they are all better when they wake up. Well, I am feeling tired myself, so I am going to sign off for now!
The kids helped me do a few things around the house that we (I) wanted done before Brian came home. After we were done, we just sat around waiting, waiting, and waiting. Finally about 2:30, the moment finally came. I know it sounds over dramatic, and probably is, but I can not help it. It was wonderful seeing the love of my life after being away for two weeks. Especially when he missed our 11 year anniversary.
Needless to say, the kids were so excited to see their Dad, and so was our dog Bentley. Bentley gets so sad when Brian goes away. When he comes home from trips, Bentley follows Brian around, it is really cute. It is like he doesn't want him to leave his sight.
After relaxing a bit, my wonderful husband decided to work in the yard. Without being asked! When did I get so lucky? He pulled weeds and trimmed back the trees and the bushes in the yard. It was really nice, although, I think the trees look small again, but totally understand why they needed the trim that they got.
This evening, as bedtime loomed closer, both of the kids started not feeling well. They were complaining of headaches and stomachaches :( We have a fun day planned tomorrow, so I hope they are all better when they wake up. Well, I am feeling tired myself, so I am going to sign off for now!
Sunday
Today was a pretty relaxing day. The three of us went to church this morning. It was wonderful to worship our Lord! BTW, God is great, powerful, loving, and merciful!!!
After church we went and picked up a few things from the store, including getting Princess her first training bra! I know as a Mom, I shouldn't put that out there in cyber space, but I can not help it. I think it is crazy that my baby is starting to grow up! And I can not beleive some of the bras they make for children! We were shopping in the girls clothing section, NOT the women's section, but they were selling push up bras! Really??? Push up bras for children? What is the world coming to? Needless to say, Princess did NOT get one of those, more of the sports bra style, and yet, they are still cute.
After shopping, we went home and hung out around the house. While the kids played downstairs, I stayed in the kitchen and made one of my favorite meals, chili. I looked for years for just the right chili recipe, and finally found it about 6 years ago. It takes about three hours to make, but is definitely worth the wait. It was so good having it for dinner tonight, and the recipe makes a huge pot, so I have lots left over!
Tomorrow is an exciting day, Brian comes home! We are all looking forward to it!
After church we went and picked up a few things from the store, including getting Princess her first training bra! I know as a Mom, I shouldn't put that out there in cyber space, but I can not help it. I think it is crazy that my baby is starting to grow up! And I can not beleive some of the bras they make for children! We were shopping in the girls clothing section, NOT the women's section, but they were selling push up bras! Really??? Push up bras for children? What is the world coming to? Needless to say, Princess did NOT get one of those, more of the sports bra style, and yet, they are still cute.
After shopping, we went home and hung out around the house. While the kids played downstairs, I stayed in the kitchen and made one of my favorite meals, chili. I looked for years for just the right chili recipe, and finally found it about 6 years ago. It takes about three hours to make, but is definitely worth the wait. It was so good having it for dinner tonight, and the recipe makes a huge pot, so I have lots left over!
Tomorrow is an exciting day, Brian comes home! We are all looking forward to it!
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Our Saturday
Yesterday was our 11 year anniversary, and unfortunately, Brian was still gone. So instead of feeling sorry for myself and being lonely, I filled the day up.
The kids and I started the day by going to see the play Ragtime at our local theater. All three of us loved the production, they did a great job. I am so glad that my children love the theater and are great at sitting there :) This musical did have a lot of content that the kids had never encountered before, so I did spend a long time explaining some of the issues that this show covered such as racism, immigration, politics in the early 1900s, and just plain ignorance.
After the play, we went home because I had a meeting with my councelor for school on the phone. Once my meeting was over, I made treats for a girls night in that I was having that night.
Girls night in was awesome! I had four friends come over and we just talked for hours and hung out. It was fun to take my mind off of the fact that Brian was gone.
The kids and I started the day by going to see the play Ragtime at our local theater. All three of us loved the production, they did a great job. I am so glad that my children love the theater and are great at sitting there :) This musical did have a lot of content that the kids had never encountered before, so I did spend a long time explaining some of the issues that this show covered such as racism, immigration, politics in the early 1900s, and just plain ignorance.
After the play, we went home because I had a meeting with my councelor for school on the phone. Once my meeting was over, I made treats for a girls night in that I was having that night.
Girls night in was awesome! I had four friends come over and we just talked for hours and hung out. It was fun to take my mind off of the fact that Brian was gone.
Friday, July 19, 2013
Busy, busy, busy
The last two days have been very busy around our house. Yesterday, after chores, the kids got to go play all day with their friends and so did I! They both separated and played at different houses, while I got to go tubing down the river! I had so much fun! Even with having to swim in the 52 degree water, I had a blast. (I went to stand up, and my tube took off without me!)
Today was equally fun, but in a relaxing way. Prince went to a friend's house, while Princess and I went swimming in a pool. (And let me tell you, the pool is ALOT warmer! 😃)
Both days were great fun hanging out with friends! Here's a sneak peak into what tomorrow will be like; very busy again!
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Come on Monday!
Today was a pretty good day over all. The kids slept in while I mowed the lawn (again). (Really wish Brian would get home soon so I do not have to mow the lawn anymore, I HATE doing it!!!) After doing the yard work, the three of us just hung out around the house for a couple hours.
This afternoon, we all went to the movies and saw the movie Epic. It was better than I expected, although I think I liked it better than the kids. I laughed quite a bit, but most of the kids in the room did not get all the humor. Maybe they are too young to understand ;) After the movies, we came home and just hung out again around the house.
It was a pretty relaxing day, but I can tell the kids are getting ansy for Dad to get home. Both kids were wanting to know how many more days before he was home. I have been trying to do fun activities everyday so the time passed faster. Come on, five more days! We can do this!
This afternoon, we all went to the movies and saw the movie Epic. It was better than I expected, although I think I liked it better than the kids. I laughed quite a bit, but most of the kids in the room did not get all the humor. Maybe they are too young to understand ;) After the movies, we came home and just hung out again around the house.
It was a pretty relaxing day, but I can tell the kids are getting ansy for Dad to get home. Both kids were wanting to know how many more days before he was home. I have been trying to do fun activities everyday so the time passed faster. Come on, five more days! We can do this!
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
The library and park
Today the kids and I went to our local library to check out some more books and a couple movies. It is so awesome to see my children loving books. Prince has always had a fascination with books, but Princess is also starting to read a lot more.
After the library, we went over to one of our favorite parks near our house. They have this spinning contraption that the kids love to ride. Well, it appears that Prince is starting to develop his Dad's motion sickness. We have been thinking he had it for a little now, but today confirmed it. Poor guy! For all the things to inherit from his Dad, this one sucks. He LOVES rides and is really upset that he is going to have to abstain from the spinning ones.
Monday, July 15, 2013
The start of a new week
Hello out there Cyber World! It is a great day! The sun is shining and the air is warm. We all got to sleep in this morning, but everyone is now up and doing their chores for the morning. I am taking the kids and a friend to the swimming pool today. My kids are so excited, they love going swimming! I love the fact that they are getting to be such good little swimmers.
So, yesterday I made Princess two new skirts. The first one was a brown with pink polka dots maxi skirt. It turned out great! I had never made a maxi skirt, but they looked easy and went for it. It was definitely easy! The second one is turquoise and white. It goes to her knees and flairs out. She loves it, and I love the material. Later today, I plan to use some of the same turquoise material to make her a head band. There is also a ruffle purse that I want to make using the same material as the lining.
Prince played WAY too many video games yesterday, so he has agreed to not play them today. The kids are supposed to have a daily limit, but sometimes I do not enforce it. I know I should, but oh well.
Today marks the halfway point of Brian being gone. The last week has been easier than it has been in the past. The kids for the most part have been so good! I am very optimistic for the coming week, and then Brian being home. It has been nice to have iphones this time, as we have been using Facetime frequently. We have Skype on our laptops, but in the past his internet has been iffy, so it has been nice to just use our phones. Plus, then I do not have to be home for us to talk face to face.
So, yesterday I made Princess two new skirts. The first one was a brown with pink polka dots maxi skirt. It turned out great! I had never made a maxi skirt, but they looked easy and went for it. It was definitely easy! The second one is turquoise and white. It goes to her knees and flairs out. She loves it, and I love the material. Later today, I plan to use some of the same turquoise material to make her a head band. There is also a ruffle purse that I want to make using the same material as the lining.
Prince played WAY too many video games yesterday, so he has agreed to not play them today. The kids are supposed to have a daily limit, but sometimes I do not enforce it. I know I should, but oh well.
Today marks the halfway point of Brian being gone. The last week has been easier than it has been in the past. The kids for the most part have been so good! I am very optimistic for the coming week, and then Brian being home. It has been nice to have iphones this time, as we have been using Facetime frequently. We have Skype on our laptops, but in the past his internet has been iffy, so it has been nice to just use our phones. Plus, then I do not have to be home for us to talk face to face.
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Our pets
Okay, I just walked into my living room and saw one of the cutest things ever.
Bentley
Jedi
Bentley was curled up on the couch, using one of the couch cushions as a pillow for his head. What a big cute baby I have! Our animals have added so much to our lives! If you didn't know, we have three animals; Bentley, Mischa, and Jedi. Bentley turned 2 in May, Mischa turned 6 last week, and Jedi is 6 1/2 years old.
Mischa
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Saturday
Friday, July 12, 2013
Faithful Fridays
There is a lesson that I learned months ago, that has really stuck with me, and it has been very important to me this week. That lesson is the lesson of being thankful to God in everything that I do, no matter the trial that I am going through. There definitely have been times in my life the last few months where I could have just yelled, "Why me God? Why our family?" Instead of trying to take this attitude, I have been trying to see the good in all situations. Now do not get me wrong, just because I am looking for the bright side does NOT mean I like the situation or that I am not upset about what was happening. I have been an emotional mess at times and am very grateful for the family and friends that have helped me pick up the pieces and move forward.
I have learned that even in the darkest hour, there will be something good to come out of it. We might not know what that good is, it might be years or even after death that we finally get the last piece of the puzzle. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. I know that God tests us and puts us through trials. I do not think He would give us something that we could not handle. I also know that temptations do not come from God, but from our own wants and desires and Satan can use those desires to tempt us. When we push through the temptations and make it through on the other side, we are strengthened.
When we doubt we can make it through, we need to lean on God for our strength. We should be in the word daily, and having regular conversations with God.
One of the passages in the bible that I love is James 1:2-4
"2Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3 Knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (NASB)
James also goes on to say that we should never doubt God.
James 1:5-8
"5But is any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8 being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways." (NASB)
James talks about how God does not tempt us.
James 1:13-17
"13Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." (NASB)
Paul has a similar message to James.
1 Corinthians 10:13
"No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it." (NASB)
I do not know about you, but for me, I find this whole topic very comforting. When I made the decision to change how I think about hard times, I found so much more peace. I am not perfect, and do slip up, and am continuing in this process of giving everything over to God and looking for the good in all.
I have learned that even in the darkest hour, there will be something good to come out of it. We might not know what that good is, it might be years or even after death that we finally get the last piece of the puzzle. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. I know that God tests us and puts us through trials. I do not think He would give us something that we could not handle. I also know that temptations do not come from God, but from our own wants and desires and Satan can use those desires to tempt us. When we push through the temptations and make it through on the other side, we are strengthened.
When we doubt we can make it through, we need to lean on God for our strength. We should be in the word daily, and having regular conversations with God.
One of the passages in the bible that I love is James 1:2-4
"2Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3 Knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (NASB)
James also goes on to say that we should never doubt God.
James 1:5-8
"5But is any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8 being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways." (NASB)
James talks about how God does not tempt us.
James 1:13-17
"13Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." (NASB)
Paul has a similar message to James.
1 Corinthians 10:13
"No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it." (NASB)
I do not know about you, but for me, I find this whole topic very comforting. When I made the decision to change how I think about hard times, I found so much more peace. I am not perfect, and do slip up, and am continuing in this process of giving everything over to God and looking for the good in all.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Airport, Dr, and Apple
Today has been an interesting day. We started the day by doing chores, the kids worked in the house while I mowed the lawn and pulled weeds. At 1 pm we took my sister to the airport. She was flying back to San Diego for a long weekend of fun in the sun ;) Afterward, Prince had a doctor appointment with a psychiatrist.
Prince's appointment was an interesting one. The doctor kept asking me what medicines I wanted him to go on. In my head, I kept thinking, "Hello!!!! You are the doctor, you tell me!!!" In the end, I agree with what the doctor put Prince on, it was just weird getting there. It seems like we are going to have to wait to get Prince into the program we wanted to, but hopefully this will be enough care for him. I am trusting the God knows what he is doing, and am not trying to lead this process with what I think is best. This psychiatrist said he feels strongly that Prince is great and will do wonderful with a new sibling, and that his diagnosis should not stop us from heading down the foster to adopt path. This was reassuring, since the counselor yesterday was not so sure.
After Prince's appointment, I discovered my cell phone was broken and totally glitching. I don't know about you, but I feel naked when my phone is not with me or not working right. I am so grateful that Apple has an awesome warranty. I was able to make an appointment with the Genius Bar almost immediately, and left their store 15 minutes after I arrived with a brand new phone.
The kids and I are having a wonderful summer. Tomorrow we are planning on spending the day at the pool. Hopefully, the lightening will stay away long enough for us to do that!
Prince's appointment was an interesting one. The doctor kept asking me what medicines I wanted him to go on. In my head, I kept thinking, "Hello!!!! You are the doctor, you tell me!!!" In the end, I agree with what the doctor put Prince on, it was just weird getting there. It seems like we are going to have to wait to get Prince into the program we wanted to, but hopefully this will be enough care for him. I am trusting the God knows what he is doing, and am not trying to lead this process with what I think is best. This psychiatrist said he feels strongly that Prince is great and will do wonderful with a new sibling, and that his diagnosis should not stop us from heading down the foster to adopt path. This was reassuring, since the counselor yesterday was not so sure.
After Prince's appointment, I discovered my cell phone was broken and totally glitching. I don't know about you, but I feel naked when my phone is not with me or not working right. I am so grateful that Apple has an awesome warranty. I was able to make an appointment with the Genius Bar almost immediately, and left their store 15 minutes after I arrived with a brand new phone.
The kids and I are having a wonderful summer. Tomorrow we are planning on spending the day at the pool. Hopefully, the lightening will stay away long enough for us to do that!
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
What a great night!
Quick post tonight, I am on my phone! We had an absolutely wonderful afternoon/evening tonight. We spent the time with some great friends, ate with them, and watched the kids play capture the flag until late. It was so great to have a relaxing evening. All the kids played so well together!
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
A Day of Play
Today was a very busy day, in which we got to play around most of the day. Princess went to a class today for local military kids. She had a blast! They made marshmallow shooters, colored bandanas, played lots of games, make a necklace, and just in general had a lot of fun. While Princess was at her class, Prince and I went to the movies, Costco, and then played miniature golf. It was so much fun spending the day with my boy. In two weeks, the kids get to switch, and Prince will go to the class and I will spend the day with my Princess.
Tonight, we had Prayer Group for our church at our house. It was a great time of spending time with God. It was also so much fun to catch up with long time friends.
Tonight, we had Prayer Group for our church at our house. It was a great time of spending time with God. It was also so much fun to catch up with long time friends.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Sad boy, and missing husband
Today has been an interesting day. The day started out with finding out that Prince will most likely be able to attend a treatment center that we have been wanting to get him into. This was great news! Then, came the crash. We have to get our insurance to agree to the treatment. Without our insurance behind us, there is no way we will be able to pay with this program, and our insurance is not wanting to. There is still a decent chance they will pay for it, but we have to jump through a lot of hoops to get there. I will keep you updated on this issue at a later date ;)
After being on the phone for a couple hours, I took both the kids to the local library and then to play. Unfortunately, while at both the library and the playground, Prince was not feeling well and did not want to do anything. It really breaks me heart to think of all the emotional things that he goes through. I just want to get him the help that I know he needs.
After playing Princess went over to her friend's house and Prince and I got to spend some one on one time together at home. He has been asking to watch The Avengers for awhile, so we sat and watched it today. (BTW, it is very much a "boy" movie!)
Another huge thing in our lives today was Brian went off for his National Guard training today. He left super early, so he said goodbye to the kids last night at bedtime. I got up early to see him off, and then promptly went back to bed :) It really sucks when he goes away, but I understand and support him in his wanting to be a soldier. At least he is stateside, and not over seas.
Well, my head is killing me, so I am going to stop there. Tomorrow is an active-packed day! Look out!
After being on the phone for a couple hours, I took both the kids to the local library and then to play. Unfortunately, while at both the library and the playground, Prince was not feeling well and did not want to do anything. It really breaks me heart to think of all the emotional things that he goes through. I just want to get him the help that I know he needs.
After playing Princess went over to her friend's house and Prince and I got to spend some one on one time together at home. He has been asking to watch The Avengers for awhile, so we sat and watched it today. (BTW, it is very much a "boy" movie!)
Another huge thing in our lives today was Brian went off for his National Guard training today. He left super early, so he said goodbye to the kids last night at bedtime. I got up early to see him off, and then promptly went back to bed :) It really sucks when he goes away, but I understand and support him in his wanting to be a soldier. At least he is stateside, and not over seas.
Well, my head is killing me, so I am going to stop there. Tomorrow is an active-packed day! Look out!
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Birthday time for Aunt Tiffany
Hello Cyber World! Today has been an interesting day. First off, the kids and I went to church this morning without Brian, who was at work. After church, there was a potluck lunch, which of course I had forgotten all about and was not prepared. So then we had to rush home where I quickly made salsa. When we finally got home, I had to make a birthday cake for my baby sister who turns 19 tomorrow.
Tiffany is the baby on my side of the family. She and I are half-siblings, so she has several other siblings from her dad that are not related to me. Tiff moved here to Utah back in January and lived with us for five months, before striking it out on her own. She is a wonderful girl, and I am so proud to call her my sister. Tiff works full time, at an awesome job, and continues her education. She is very responsible and grown up. I have loved watching her grow and seeing the woman she is turning into.
The kids have been pretty good today, haven't really fought and have listened when told something. For them, this can be a huge achievement, as they are starting to question everything and think they are getting too big to listen. Even though Princess is 8, I think she thinks that she is going on 18 sometimes. Prince is definitely in the preteen phase of life at almost 11 years old. I love watching them grow up, but sometimes, the attitudes that come out of their mouths is nuts ;) Oh well, they are the light of our lives, and we wouldn't trade them for anything!
Prince lost his second canine tooth in about two weeks tonight. It had been lose for quite awhile, and all he ever did was play with it. After messing with it all day, the silly tooth still was not coming out, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. I barely tugged on it, and the tooth came right out. He is really excited for the tooth fairy to come tonight. He insists that the tooth fairy is male. Boy, some day he is going to be disappointed when he figures out that him Mom is the tooth fairy ;)
Tiffany is the baby on my side of the family. She and I are half-siblings, so she has several other siblings from her dad that are not related to me. Tiff moved here to Utah back in January and lived with us for five months, before striking it out on her own. She is a wonderful girl, and I am so proud to call her my sister. Tiff works full time, at an awesome job, and continues her education. She is very responsible and grown up. I have loved watching her grow and seeing the woman she is turning into.
The kids have been pretty good today, haven't really fought and have listened when told something. For them, this can be a huge achievement, as they are starting to question everything and think they are getting too big to listen. Even though Princess is 8, I think she thinks that she is going on 18 sometimes. Prince is definitely in the preteen phase of life at almost 11 years old. I love watching them grow up, but sometimes, the attitudes that come out of their mouths is nuts ;) Oh well, they are the light of our lives, and we wouldn't trade them for anything!
Prince lost his second canine tooth in about two weeks tonight. It had been lose for quite awhile, and all he ever did was play with it. After messing with it all day, the silly tooth still was not coming out, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. I barely tugged on it, and the tooth came right out. He is really excited for the tooth fairy to come tonight. He insists that the tooth fairy is male. Boy, some day he is going to be disappointed when he figures out that him Mom is the tooth fairy ;)
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Saturday
Today has been a very easy day. The kids have been great, such good helpers! Today we picked up the family room, cleaned the garage, and just in general hung out. I love days that I just get to sit around with the kids. Tonight after dinner, we will be watching a movie that Princess picked out from the library the other day. By the way, I love the fact that the library lets you rent movies! It is awesome!
Friday, July 5, 2013
Faithful Fridays
There are several blogs that I like to read and gain inspiration from (I have just a few on the side of my page, there is actually more than that), and one of the blogs has a page called Faith Filled Fridays. I really like the idea of that, and I hope they do not mind if I "steal" their idea. Religion in the last couple years has become very important to our family and I would love to talk about it here on Fridays. I am not like some, and do not like to "cram" my religion in other people's faces, but it really is important to me.
I would like to start my first Faithful Friday with a little about myself and my journey to become a Christian. When I was ten years old, I was baptized into the LDS faith. Honestly, I think I did this mostly to satisfy my family that was pushing me to attend their church. At that time in my life, I wanted to appease everyone, wanting everyone to be happy with me and not making waves. As a teenager of about 16, I decided that the LDS church was not for me. I did not believe in their church, religion, and their teachings.
The next several years, I did not really believe in anything. I did not think that there was a God or Jesus. During this time, I met and married my best friend Brian. When we met, Brian was a Roman Catholic. Since religion was important to him, we decided that when raising our children to know about God and Jesus, but also my thoughts on religion. That way, when they were older they could decide for themselves what they believed in. Over the first few years of marriage, we would attend Catholic mass occasionally, but never regularly. After about 5-6 years of marriage, we ended up wanting to go to church services more regularly, but never found a Catholic church that we really liked.
In 2008, we moved our family from Lakeside, California to a town in Utah. Knowing that the LDS faith was prevalent in Utah, we immediately felt the need to find a good church to call our own. We compiled a list of different churches, looking at different denominations of Christian faiths. The first church we looked at was a very small non-denominational church just a mile from our house. This church was completely different than any church we had been to in the past. After the services were over, Brian and I looked at each other and both just felt that this was the right church for us. They were very welcoming, had a wonderful music program, and we loved the message the Pastor gave. That Sunday, we decided to stay with that church, and to stop of search.
Now, do not get me wrong. I did not become a Christian that fast. It has been a very long process of praying and sorting through things in my mind. Two years after moving to Utah, Brian and Prince both accepted that Jesus was their savior, and accepted God's grace into their lives. It was wonderful watching my two boys go through that, but initially, it left me with more questions. At that point, we were involved with our church and I was definitely coming to know God, but was not there yet. Finally, by the summer of 2011, I fully accepted God's grace and that Jesus was my savior. I know that without Jesus, I would not be able to go to heaven someday. I know that Jesus died on the cross for my sins, even though he was sinless. It is only by accepting God's grace that I can be forgiven for my sins, because I am a sinner with a sinner's mind. So, thank you Jesus for dieing on the cross so that I could be forgiven.
Princess was baptized the same day I was. It was a wonderful experience, only made better by the fact that my wonderful husband was the one to baptize us. (He also baptized our son!) We were surrounded by family, church family, and friends. Overall, I am so grateful for our home church and the teachings they have taught us.
Romans 3:22-24
22 even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus (NASB)
1 John 3:17-18
17 But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? 18 Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. (NASB)
Ephesians 2:8-9
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (ESV)
I would like to start my first Faithful Friday with a little about myself and my journey to become a Christian. When I was ten years old, I was baptized into the LDS faith. Honestly, I think I did this mostly to satisfy my family that was pushing me to attend their church. At that time in my life, I wanted to appease everyone, wanting everyone to be happy with me and not making waves. As a teenager of about 16, I decided that the LDS church was not for me. I did not believe in their church, religion, and their teachings.
The next several years, I did not really believe in anything. I did not think that there was a God or Jesus. During this time, I met and married my best friend Brian. When we met, Brian was a Roman Catholic. Since religion was important to him, we decided that when raising our children to know about God and Jesus, but also my thoughts on religion. That way, when they were older they could decide for themselves what they believed in. Over the first few years of marriage, we would attend Catholic mass occasionally, but never regularly. After about 5-6 years of marriage, we ended up wanting to go to church services more regularly, but never found a Catholic church that we really liked.
In 2008, we moved our family from Lakeside, California to a town in Utah. Knowing that the LDS faith was prevalent in Utah, we immediately felt the need to find a good church to call our own. We compiled a list of different churches, looking at different denominations of Christian faiths. The first church we looked at was a very small non-denominational church just a mile from our house. This church was completely different than any church we had been to in the past. After the services were over, Brian and I looked at each other and both just felt that this was the right church for us. They were very welcoming, had a wonderful music program, and we loved the message the Pastor gave. That Sunday, we decided to stay with that church, and to stop of search.
Now, do not get me wrong. I did not become a Christian that fast. It has been a very long process of praying and sorting through things in my mind. Two years after moving to Utah, Brian and Prince both accepted that Jesus was their savior, and accepted God's grace into their lives. It was wonderful watching my two boys go through that, but initially, it left me with more questions. At that point, we were involved with our church and I was definitely coming to know God, but was not there yet. Finally, by the summer of 2011, I fully accepted God's grace and that Jesus was my savior. I know that without Jesus, I would not be able to go to heaven someday. I know that Jesus died on the cross for my sins, even though he was sinless. It is only by accepting God's grace that I can be forgiven for my sins, because I am a sinner with a sinner's mind. So, thank you Jesus for dieing on the cross so that I could be forgiven.
Princess was baptized the same day I was. It was a wonderful experience, only made better by the fact that my wonderful husband was the one to baptize us. (He also baptized our son!) We were surrounded by family, church family, and friends. Overall, I am so grateful for our home church and the teachings they have taught us.
Romans 3:22-24
22 even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus (NASB)
1 John 3:17-18
17 But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? 18 Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. (NASB)
Ephesians 2:8-9
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (ESV)
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Happy Independence Day!
I would like to start this post off by saying thank you to all of the amazing and wonderful soldiers, marines, sailors, and coast guard that agreed to put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms that we enjoy in this great nation. In addition, I would like to thank the spouses and families of those same brave souls. Brian served four years active duty United States Marine Corps, and is currently a guardsman with the Utah National Guard. I have watched my amazing husband do what he had to, to protect our liberties. He sacrificed time with our son when he was a baby to serve in Kuwait and Iraq. He continually misses family time so he can keep up on his training. In the Guard, they only require one weekend a month and two weeks in the summer. Brian goes above and beyond that by attending voluntary training several extra weeks every year so he can be prepared as possible. I have watched him lose friends while fighting in Iraq, and others to PTSD. This is just one soldier's story. There are so many others out there that do so much for us as Americans. They do more than many even realize. So, I just say, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Today, my lovely husband is working at his full-time job, so that he can take time off of work next week to attend Guard training. While he is working, I have been cleaning our house, mowing the lawn, and weed eating the yard. As I did this, my kids finished their chores (I know, HUGE DEAL, especially since I did not have to make them do it!!!). Now, it is only 11:30, and they both have a friend over to play. I love days like this. The boys are down stairs playing video games having a great time. The girls, getting some otter pops and then heading out to the trampoline with their swim suits on and the sprinkler on. It is just a really nice, relaxing day.
This evening, we really do not have much planned, just dinner and maybe watching other people's fire works. With Brian working today and all weekend, we couldn't go camping like we usually do for the fourth of July.
I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe fourth! Happy Independence Day!
Today, my lovely husband is working at his full-time job, so that he can take time off of work next week to attend Guard training. While he is working, I have been cleaning our house, mowing the lawn, and weed eating the yard. As I did this, my kids finished their chores (I know, HUGE DEAL, especially since I did not have to make them do it!!!). Now, it is only 11:30, and they both have a friend over to play. I love days like this. The boys are down stairs playing video games having a great time. The girls, getting some otter pops and then heading out to the trampoline with their swim suits on and the sprinkler on. It is just a really nice, relaxing day.
This evening, we really do not have much planned, just dinner and maybe watching other people's fire works. With Brian working today and all weekend, we couldn't go camping like we usually do for the fourth of July.
I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe fourth! Happy Independence Day!
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Tiring Day
It is now 9:28 pm, and I am just sitting down to write about the day. Does any one else have days that feel so busy, but in reality, you did not do much? I am having one of those days today. Today I saw one of my favorite women and her adorable almost two year old. We met up at the park to let all the kids play. I haven't seen this "sister" (really the sister of my sister-in-law, but more like a sister) in several months. It was great sitting there with her and catching up. My kids pretty much whined and complained the whole time (silly children, we were at a park!).
After the park, we went to our local library and got a new library card. I am so excited for this, I have been meaning to get one for a long time and just never did. At our library, they let you check out movies in addition to the books, so each of our kids got to pick out two books and one movie. I think Prince has already read the first one and is working on his second. As you can tell, Prince is just like me in his reading habits. Princess, on the other hand, is not much of a reader. I have been trying to work on her, but as in most of her habits, she is her father's daughter. Brian does not enjoy reading like I do.
Once we left the library, I was exhausted so I let the kids each take a t.v. and watch the movie they picked out at the library. While they did this, I was able to sit down in a dark room and relax. I have had a migraine most of the day due to my low estrogen level, and sitting down did a world of good for my head. After dinner, while I worked in the yard weeding and watering, the kids played on the trampoline with a sprinkler running underneath it. I love that they love this, and are such great friends to each other.
Over all, I am so tired today, I am looking forward to a relaxing holiday tomorrow.
After the park, we went to our local library and got a new library card. I am so excited for this, I have been meaning to get one for a long time and just never did. At our library, they let you check out movies in addition to the books, so each of our kids got to pick out two books and one movie. I think Prince has already read the first one and is working on his second. As you can tell, Prince is just like me in his reading habits. Princess, on the other hand, is not much of a reader. I have been trying to work on her, but as in most of her habits, she is her father's daughter. Brian does not enjoy reading like I do.
Once we left the library, I was exhausted so I let the kids each take a t.v. and watch the movie they picked out at the library. While they did this, I was able to sit down in a dark room and relax. I have had a migraine most of the day due to my low estrogen level, and sitting down did a world of good for my head. After dinner, while I worked in the yard weeding and watering, the kids played on the trampoline with a sprinkler running underneath it. I love that they love this, and are such great friends to each other.
Over all, I am so tired today, I am looking forward to a relaxing holiday tomorrow.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Chores
Today I promised to take them swimming. At the beginning of the summer, I told them we would try to get to the pool at least once every other week. This might not seem a lot, but we also have the pass of all passes so we are also going to the movies every week, to play laser tag, and just in general do as much as we can this summer. Well, today is pool day, and I told the kids to make sure their chores are done so we could go. Are they doing their chores, even though we are supposed to be leaving in about an hour and a half? No they are not :/ Now do not get me wrong, their chores do NOT take that long to do, but it is the last minute procrastination that gets to me and when 11 am rolls around, the chores will probably not be done. Then I get to be the bad guy and say we are not leaving until they are done, which will then make them scramble to finish what they need. It is the same thing every day.
I do not know about any one else, but chores in our home are just a part of being a family. Over the years, we have tried to make their chores age appropriate. For example, currently, they need to have their rooms picked up, all of their toys and what-nots not scattered around the house, no clothes on the floor of the bathroom, and in the evening Princess helps set the table, and Prince helps with the dishes. Those are it for their daily chores. In addition to their daily chores, we do have weekly chores. Weekly chores for us is helping dust and vacuum a living space, Princess has to help pull weeds, and Prince is starting to learn how to use the lawn mower. In all reality, I do not think that is asking too much, they aren't toddlers any more, and eventually will be living on their own and need to learn how to take care of themselves and their own home. Maybe I am a "mean" mom and give them too much, but I do not think so.
While perusing Pintrest awhile back, a chore chart caught my eye. It separates daily chores and weekly chores, and using a check mark box next to the name of the chore. I fell in love with it for some reason. I then promptly made my own with our version of chores (which by the way my children help decide what their chores are for the month). On our chore chart, I added things like read for 30 minutes a day, brush your teeth, brush your hair, take your medicine at "x" time, things like that. (I don't know about your kids, but mine would forget their head if it wasn't attached!) Once the chart was printed, I took an old picture frame and painted it whatever the kids wanted for theirs, they each have their own chart. In the end, the charts turned out wonderful! Each child has a dry erase marker that they check off their boxes as they do that chore. It actually looks great, I just wish they would do the chores in a more timely manner. I guess that can be our next lesson we learn, NO PROCRASTINATING!
I do not know about any one else, but chores in our home are just a part of being a family. Over the years, we have tried to make their chores age appropriate. For example, currently, they need to have their rooms picked up, all of their toys and what-nots not scattered around the house, no clothes on the floor of the bathroom, and in the evening Princess helps set the table, and Prince helps with the dishes. Those are it for their daily chores. In addition to their daily chores, we do have weekly chores. Weekly chores for us is helping dust and vacuum a living space, Princess has to help pull weeds, and Prince is starting to learn how to use the lawn mower. In all reality, I do not think that is asking too much, they aren't toddlers any more, and eventually will be living on their own and need to learn how to take care of themselves and their own home. Maybe I am a "mean" mom and give them too much, but I do not think so.
While perusing Pintrest awhile back, a chore chart caught my eye. It separates daily chores and weekly chores, and using a check mark box next to the name of the chore. I fell in love with it for some reason. I then promptly made my own with our version of chores (which by the way my children help decide what their chores are for the month). On our chore chart, I added things like read for 30 minutes a day, brush your teeth, brush your hair, take your medicine at "x" time, things like that. (I don't know about your kids, but mine would forget their head if it wasn't attached!) Once the chart was printed, I took an old picture frame and painted it whatever the kids wanted for theirs, they each have their own chart. In the end, the charts turned out wonderful! Each child has a dry erase marker that they check off their boxes as they do that chore. It actually looks great, I just wish they would do the chores in a more timely manner. I guess that can be our next lesson we learn, NO PROCRASTINATING!
Monday, July 1, 2013
Time Flies By!
Wow! Time really has a way of getting by without you knowing it! It has been a long time since I blogged, and I have gotten out of the habit. I have decided to set a new goal for myself to start blogging every day for one year. I do not know if that is feasible, but I am definitely going to try. I think it is important to catalog my children's lives while they are living them. I want to be able to look back, and know that I did not miss anything. So here goes nothing:
Our handsome prince is now 10 years old. He is going into his final year of elementary school. To me, this is a scary proposition. My baby is almost in middle school! Most people call me crazy for feeling like this, but to me, Buddy going into sixth grade is scarier than my thirtieth birthday coming up! He is as sweet as ever, such a wonderful and loving boy. Dam does not like to see anyone in pain, and has a very deep heart. He enjoys playing soccer and video games. We are trying to balance the two, but currently, it seems as if the video games are winning. If anyone else has a child with the disorders he has, they will know that children like this get OBSESSED! At the present moment, mine craft is his favorite.
Our beautiful princess is 8 years old! Sia is as sweet as can be, but is SO sassy! She thinks she is the boss, and her brother is her subject ;) She is about to go into third grade. My littlest baby is almost halfway through her elementary years. Some of her favorite things to do include dancing, tumbling, soccer, and just being a goofy girl. Sia is very much her father's daughter, and has his sarcastic, weird humor. She loves being the life of the party and making people laugh. The last year or so, she has had some weird medical problems, and we have them currently about halfway under control. Unfortunately, we still have more testing to go before we fully understand everything that is going on.
Brian and I are doing great! We went to a marriage retreat last weekend, which was wonderful. I love just spending time with the world's best husband and father! Later this month, we will be celebrating our 11th wedding anniversary, although, for the first time, we will be separated for the actual date. The National Guard is sending him away for training, and he won't get back until after our anniversary. For being a military wife and this being the first time he has missed an anniversary, that is pretty good!
Another thing going on in our lives is that we are going through the process to become foster parents. We are wanting to welcome one or two more children into our family. Our ultimate goal by doing this is to make a difference in a child's life, and adopt if God wills. We are letting God lead us in this, and it is amazing! Tonight we will complete our training, and then will start getting our home ready to take in children. It will probably still be a few months before we are licensed, but that is okay.
Well, I guess, that is probably all for now! Have a wonderful day!
Our handsome prince is now 10 years old. He is going into his final year of elementary school. To me, this is a scary proposition. My baby is almost in middle school! Most people call me crazy for feeling like this, but to me, Buddy going into sixth grade is scarier than my thirtieth birthday coming up! He is as sweet as ever, such a wonderful and loving boy. Dam does not like to see anyone in pain, and has a very deep heart. He enjoys playing soccer and video games. We are trying to balance the two, but currently, it seems as if the video games are winning. If anyone else has a child with the disorders he has, they will know that children like this get OBSESSED! At the present moment, mine craft is his favorite.
Our beautiful princess is 8 years old! Sia is as sweet as can be, but is SO sassy! She thinks she is the boss, and her brother is her subject ;) She is about to go into third grade. My littlest baby is almost halfway through her elementary years. Some of her favorite things to do include dancing, tumbling, soccer, and just being a goofy girl. Sia is very much her father's daughter, and has his sarcastic, weird humor. She loves being the life of the party and making people laugh. The last year or so, she has had some weird medical problems, and we have them currently about halfway under control. Unfortunately, we still have more testing to go before we fully understand everything that is going on.
Brian and I are doing great! We went to a marriage retreat last weekend, which was wonderful. I love just spending time with the world's best husband and father! Later this month, we will be celebrating our 11th wedding anniversary, although, for the first time, we will be separated for the actual date. The National Guard is sending him away for training, and he won't get back until after our anniversary. For being a military wife and this being the first time he has missed an anniversary, that is pretty good!
Another thing going on in our lives is that we are going through the process to become foster parents. We are wanting to welcome one or two more children into our family. Our ultimate goal by doing this is to make a difference in a child's life, and adopt if God wills. We are letting God lead us in this, and it is amazing! Tonight we will complete our training, and then will start getting our home ready to take in children. It will probably still be a few months before we are licensed, but that is okay.
Well, I guess, that is probably all for now! Have a wonderful day!
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