Showing posts with label Kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kids. Show all posts
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Spunk
"Yes, in fact, she is mine." Those little feet swinging back and forth in the bathroom stall, singing 'wipey, wipey, wipey' to the tune of Frera-Jocka. "She is mine....and I LOVE HER!".
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Bedtime
Bedtime. The word conjures up many different thoughts and feelings. For Tim and I it means alone, quiet time. A little peace and time to ourselves. It's time to wind down, relax, prepare for the next day. In all honesty, I enjoy this time of day. It's time to sit.......by myself. Not that I'd ever trade motherhood...Motherhood is one of the reasons God created me. I AM a mom! I LOVE being a mom. But, bedtime is "mommy" time and I need that.
To my kids,"bedtime" is not appreciated. I am not yet sure why "bedtime" is so evil in the eyes of kids. I have a few theories. Activity ceases. They're confined to their beds. It's dark. They are separated from mom and dad...even though its by 40 feet. Well, whatever the reason, bedtime is their least favorite time of day. My energetic kids become suddenly slow. Slow to put on jammies, slow to brush teeth, slow to remember the "routine".... it's all in an effort to prolong or avoid the inevitable: sleep. It happens every night. I don't know why they think its avoidable if they "play things just right".......its never worked. Sleep. It's happened every night of their existence. But....every night they try their best to avoid it....
To my kids,"bedtime" is not appreciated. I am not yet sure why "bedtime" is so evil in the eyes of kids. I have a few theories. Activity ceases. They're confined to their beds. It's dark. They are separated from mom and dad...even though its by 40 feet. Well, whatever the reason, bedtime is their least favorite time of day. My energetic kids become suddenly slow. Slow to put on jammies, slow to brush teeth, slow to remember the "routine".... it's all in an effort to prolong or avoid the inevitable: sleep. It happens every night. I don't know why they think its avoidable if they "play things just right".......its never worked. Sleep. It's happened every night of their existence. But....every night they try their best to avoid it....
Friday, March 2, 2012
Memories
Memories. (this stuff is not for the faint of stomach)...lol
During a recent visit with my mom (discussing memories), I was reminded of an incident that happened a while ago. An incident that I am sure every mother can relate to. While sharing our stories, I didn't realize how funny it actually was (time has a way of making some things funnier). At the time of this incident, it was NOT funny...but you know...I am sure if God didn't laugh initially, His angels were.
My husband is a hunter. During a hunting season, he left for a short hunting trip. His trips don't bother me. The kids and I watch a couple extra movies and eat pot pies instead of spaghetti. Not a big deal, I don't mind.
Well, on a specific day while Tim was gone, we had a rough day...and I was TIRED. Supper time came and I loaded the kids in the truck....we decided on a local drive-thru. I DID NOT want to cook...and the kids were wound up.
We drove through the drive-thru, and headed to a local playground. Eating...and expending energy....(multi-tasking)...check, check. Good plan. BUT, we FORGOT to go potty...HOW did we manage that?
This specific playground is wonderful. Lots of tall leafy trees and grass. Very pretty. However, the parking lot is a distance from the playground (making a speedy retreat difficult). There are also no public restrooms.
We hike to the playground, sit down at the lone picnic table and spread out our food. We pray...and the kids run for the equipment. I am TIRED, but glad to have food and entertainment for the kids.
"Mom!", one of my kids frantically yells. "I have to go poop!!!!!" "Oh no", I think to myself. There is a certain pitch to a child's voice when "something" is seriously wrong. And...I detected that pitch. And...there are NO bathrooms. We're in a public park. The food is on the picnic table...we are a ways from the truck...and trying to drag my other two from their coveted perches on the monkey bars in the attempt to drive back to the restaurant would be too time consuming. ARGH! What do I do??? Well, I will only say one thing..."praise God for restaurant food bags"....and napkins. Ugh....and hand wash. A little TMI...sorry.
We had conquered it..and found a dumpster. I wiped the sweat off my brow. Wow!!
I sat back down, and applied my second dousing of hand sanitizer. All was well. Until.........
A minute later, a second child frantically yells, "Mom!!! I have to poop!!!!" Are you kidding me???? Fatigue and weariness had established themselves and I decided to allow one tear freedom. How am I going to handle this??? I have no more food bags! "Lord, please show me what to do!"
My frantic child comes running to me, expecting me to know what to do. "Mommy, I gotta go poop!!!" I knew this needed dealt with timely. It's funny how God, when you feel out of resources, shows you He's got more. He's the "Provider"...of EVERYTHING...including toileting necessities. Yes, we were out of food bags, but not totally without hope. I'll skip details, but say we dealt with it (with tidy cleanliness even) And I have to say creativity was not exclusive to Pinterest. God heard my small plea for assistance, and answered me. I was again so thankful for the extra napkins.
I finally sat back down at the table...with a much smaller appetite, and a half bottle of hand sanitizer. Life was back under control...sigh.....Until....
"Mom!" My first child hollers (I lose it)..."I gotta go pee!!!" I can handle pee better than the first...but still.... Seriously??? "Why couldn't you have done it all at the same time??" My child flies to me as I sit crying at the picnic table..."Mom, why are you crying, I gotta go potty!" I snap out of it, and get creative once more. This time things are slightly easier. I really don't cry often, but provoked by fatigue I found myself wallowing in self pitty.
Afraid to sigh relief, I sit at the picnic bench and wait (my hand sanitizer bottle only a third full now). I dare not ask who else has to go....I know better than that. My recently sanitized children laugh and play while a table full of food sits before me. I am somehow not hungry...but I am happy. I am reminded that even when I am tired, my husband's not home, things look impossible and I am out of resources, God isn't....And, my EVERY circumstance is important to Him (even my children's toileting needs). Its sometimes funny to me the situations in which God teaches us things. He brings us to the end of our "rope", to show us its really not the end....and He's capable of immeasurably more.
The rest of our evening was great. The kids played. I even hauled out my camera and took some memory shots. Our tiresome, stressful start was forgotten. All ended well. And....no one would ever even know we'd been there. :)
During a recent visit with my mom (discussing memories), I was reminded of an incident that happened a while ago. An incident that I am sure every mother can relate to. While sharing our stories, I didn't realize how funny it actually was (time has a way of making some things funnier). At the time of this incident, it was NOT funny...but you know...I am sure if God didn't laugh initially, His angels were.
My husband is a hunter. During a hunting season, he left for a short hunting trip. His trips don't bother me. The kids and I watch a couple extra movies and eat pot pies instead of spaghetti. Not a big deal, I don't mind.
Well, on a specific day while Tim was gone, we had a rough day...and I was TIRED. Supper time came and I loaded the kids in the truck....we decided on a local drive-thru. I DID NOT want to cook...and the kids were wound up.
We drove through the drive-thru, and headed to a local playground. Eating...and expending energy....(multi-tasking)...check, check. Good plan. BUT, we FORGOT to go potty...HOW did we manage that?
This specific playground is wonderful. Lots of tall leafy trees and grass. Very pretty. However, the parking lot is a distance from the playground (making a speedy retreat difficult). There are also no public restrooms.
We hike to the playground, sit down at the lone picnic table and spread out our food. We pray...and the kids run for the equipment. I am TIRED, but glad to have food and entertainment for the kids.
"Mom!", one of my kids frantically yells. "I have to go poop!!!!!" "Oh no", I think to myself. There is a certain pitch to a child's voice when "something" is seriously wrong. And...I detected that pitch. And...there are NO bathrooms. We're in a public park. The food is on the picnic table...we are a ways from the truck...and trying to drag my other two from their coveted perches on the monkey bars in the attempt to drive back to the restaurant would be too time consuming. ARGH! What do I do??? Well, I will only say one thing..."praise God for restaurant food bags"....and napkins. Ugh....and hand wash. A little TMI...sorry.
We had conquered it..and found a dumpster. I wiped the sweat off my brow. Wow!!
I sat back down, and applied my second dousing of hand sanitizer. All was well. Until.........
A minute later, a second child frantically yells, "Mom!!! I have to poop!!!!" Are you kidding me???? Fatigue and weariness had established themselves and I decided to allow one tear freedom. How am I going to handle this??? I have no more food bags! "Lord, please show me what to do!"
My frantic child comes running to me, expecting me to know what to do. "Mommy, I gotta go poop!!!" I knew this needed dealt with timely. It's funny how God, when you feel out of resources, shows you He's got more. He's the "Provider"...of EVERYTHING...including toileting necessities. Yes, we were out of food bags, but not totally without hope. I'll skip details, but say we dealt with it (with tidy cleanliness even) And I have to say creativity was not exclusive to Pinterest. God heard my small plea for assistance, and answered me. I was again so thankful for the extra napkins.
I finally sat back down at the table...with a much smaller appetite, and a half bottle of hand sanitizer. Life was back under control...sigh.....Until....
"Mom!" My first child hollers (I lose it)..."I gotta go pee!!!" I can handle pee better than the first...but still.... Seriously??? "Why couldn't you have done it all at the same time??" My child flies to me as I sit crying at the picnic table..."Mom, why are you crying, I gotta go potty!" I snap out of it, and get creative once more. This time things are slightly easier. I really don't cry often, but provoked by fatigue I found myself wallowing in self pitty.
Afraid to sigh relief, I sit at the picnic bench and wait (my hand sanitizer bottle only a third full now). I dare not ask who else has to go....I know better than that. My recently sanitized children laugh and play while a table full of food sits before me. I am somehow not hungry...but I am happy. I am reminded that even when I am tired, my husband's not home, things look impossible and I am out of resources, God isn't....And, my EVERY circumstance is important to Him (even my children's toileting needs). Its sometimes funny to me the situations in which God teaches us things. He brings us to the end of our "rope", to show us its really not the end....and He's capable of immeasurably more.
The rest of our evening was great. The kids played. I even hauled out my camera and took some memory shots. Our tiresome, stressful start was forgotten. All ended well. And....no one would ever even know we'd been there. :)
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Being Little
Four year old eyes. They see things from a little girl's perspective. "I want to be big mom!" "When I grow up, I wanna be a mama, like you." My heart melts. Oh, little girl. How much can I love you? She cuddles into my chest as she gets sleepy. My baby, my youngest. She may be four years, but she's my baby...and always will be. I cherish this time.
Six year old eyes. "When I grow up, I want to be like dad." These little boy eyes see life as something to be conquered. "I can do it, mom." How familiar has that phrase become? I remember the first time my eyes saw his sweet face. Yesterday....really. Six years of yesterdays. Wow, how the time has gone. He's in such a hurry to become a man. I am so proud of him.
Eight year old eyes. My sweet, and precious eyes of compassion. My young girl eager to embrace womanhood and watching it from a distance not so far. Her heart, sensitive to the injustice of this world, reaches out and touches those in need. She is and will always be a friend to everyone. My ray of sunshine. God knew how much we needed her.
My children sleep now. I stand in awe watching them dream; cozy in their beds. Innocence. Amazing beyond description, the fact God chose me to be their mama. I wouldn't trade this for the world.
I ready myself for bed. Not everyday is easy. We have our share of "those days". But....it makes it all worth it when I remember what I've been given. How precious those chubby fingers are...and how quickly eighteen years go by.
Six year old eyes. "When I grow up, I want to be like dad." These little boy eyes see life as something to be conquered. "I can do it, mom." How familiar has that phrase become? I remember the first time my eyes saw his sweet face. Yesterday....really. Six years of yesterdays. Wow, how the time has gone. He's in such a hurry to become a man. I am so proud of him.
Eight year old eyes. My sweet, and precious eyes of compassion. My young girl eager to embrace womanhood and watching it from a distance not so far. Her heart, sensitive to the injustice of this world, reaches out and touches those in need. She is and will always be a friend to everyone. My ray of sunshine. God knew how much we needed her.
My children sleep now. I stand in awe watching them dream; cozy in their beds. Innocence. Amazing beyond description, the fact God chose me to be their mama. I wouldn't trade this for the world.
I ready myself for bed. Not everyday is easy. We have our share of "those days". But....it makes it all worth it when I remember what I've been given. How precious those chubby fingers are...and how quickly eighteen years go by.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Raising Annie
God has blessed me with three amazing kids. The fact they exist is a miracle God placed in our hands. As I have shared in other posts, I didn't think I'd get to be a parent. But God always sees the big picture and asks us to trust Him. He always has a plan. His plan for my life DID include motherhood, and I am praising God!
As some know, we home school. I enjoy it. Some days are harder than others....some days are amazing and some days I really have to trust God (cause those days are hard)... But, I really do love the freedoms of home schooling, as well as the slow, simple life it fosters.
My sweet third born is an amazing child. This dear sweet girl has a will...a constitution and knows what she wants in life (not sure where she got it...lol :)) I find myself having many talks with Annie. I enjoy our conversations. Alot of them seem to regard actions and consequences...a time I embrace because I can hold her and spend individual time shaping her and loving on her. The last few month we've been addressing "sharing" with Annie. Sharing is a struggle (especially when it comes to her Pet Shops, Barbies, Polly Pockets, dolls, books, stuffed animals,...etc...etc....etc..). Okay, my sweet baby just struggles with sharing. Period. I know she'll grow out of it...I am not too worried. But many of our conversations do include submitting her will and sharing with her siblings.
The last couple weeks during Bible time in school, we've also been discussing both heaven as well as hell. We've been discussing what the Bible says about both. I try to use words my kids understand...bringing it to their level. I usually get nods and a few yes's. Understanding is my goal.
Last week while driving to town, my sweet daughters started arguing. I heard heated whispering followed by, "Mattie!!!! JESUS SAYS YOU HAVE TO SHARE!" And..."MATTIE, IF YOU DON"T SHARE, YOU WILL GO TO HELL!"
WHAT? My brain frantically flies threw all our Bible lessons...."Annie, that's NOT what mama said!", I reassure her. We censor movies and influences in our kids lives; I know what my kids see and hear. I also know Annie has never heard this anywhere else. It was said in a 4 year old way....interpreting wisdoms she's collected in her short journey.
A brief conversation ensued,. I am pretty sure she understands now. I had to smile to myself a little. Annie....my Annie. God, please give me wisdom. My sweet little fireball... I guess I am guilty too...guilty of changing God's word to fit my agenda...maybe she gets that from me as well. We are both works in progress..lol
Thank you God for grace!
As some know, we home school. I enjoy it. Some days are harder than others....some days are amazing and some days I really have to trust God (cause those days are hard)... But, I really do love the freedoms of home schooling, as well as the slow, simple life it fosters.
My sweet third born is an amazing child. This dear sweet girl has a will...a constitution and knows what she wants in life (not sure where she got it...lol :)) I find myself having many talks with Annie. I enjoy our conversations. Alot of them seem to regard actions and consequences...a time I embrace because I can hold her and spend individual time shaping her and loving on her. The last few month we've been addressing "sharing" with Annie. Sharing is a struggle (especially when it comes to her Pet Shops, Barbies, Polly Pockets, dolls, books, stuffed animals,...etc...etc....etc..). Okay, my sweet baby just struggles with sharing. Period. I know she'll grow out of it...I am not too worried. But many of our conversations do include submitting her will and sharing with her siblings.
The last couple weeks during Bible time in school, we've also been discussing both heaven as well as hell. We've been discussing what the Bible says about both. I try to use words my kids understand...bringing it to their level. I usually get nods and a few yes's. Understanding is my goal.
Last week while driving to town, my sweet daughters started arguing. I heard heated whispering followed by, "Mattie!!!! JESUS SAYS YOU HAVE TO SHARE!" And..."MATTIE, IF YOU DON"T SHARE, YOU WILL GO TO HELL!"
WHAT? My brain frantically flies threw all our Bible lessons...."Annie, that's NOT what mama said!", I reassure her. We censor movies and influences in our kids lives; I know what my kids see and hear. I also know Annie has never heard this anywhere else. It was said in a 4 year old way....interpreting wisdoms she's collected in her short journey.
A brief conversation ensued,. I am pretty sure she understands now. I had to smile to myself a little. Annie....my Annie. God, please give me wisdom. My sweet little fireball... I guess I am guilty too...guilty of changing God's word to fit my agenda...maybe she gets that from me as well. We are both works in progress..lol
Thank you God for grace!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Christmas Projects
One thing I am loving about home schooling: art class. I now have an excuse to pull out paint, paper and brushes. Today we worked on Christmas cards....
Christmas just feels like its coming so fast....this is the first Christmas project aside from our tree we've completed this year.
I remember as a kid working on lots of Christmas projects...anticipating Christmas day.
I want this for my kids too. To be able to look back on projects and tie them to memories and feelings.
I am so glad I was given the gift of "mom-hood"...I pray I can create little moments for my children to look back on.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Movies....3D Style
My husband and I were comparing notes however and realized that the 2 most recent shows (within 4 years) they've seen were 3D. 3D movies are totally unique. My children probably don't realize movies in the theatre aren't always 3D. I hadn't thought of that until then. My children probably think 3D glasses are a requirement for the movie theatre. So......as it was, my son came home with his 3D glasses very excited. He puts them on every now and again....maybe hoping something will happen around our house.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Blue and Orange Inspiration
A Saturday afternoon....just before the BIG game. Blue and Orange: Inspiration. Fun. Exercise. Competition. Tackling. Tackling. And.....Tackling.
The Pre-Game Show:
The Pre-Game Show:
 |
| Got It! |
 |
| Mid-Air.... |
 |
| For You, Sis! |
 |
| The Girls' Got Game! |
 |
| Nice Catch! |
 |
| Block or Tackle?? |
 |
| Definitely Tackle. |
  |
| Heisman Hopeful |
 |
| The Winner Got the Prize. |
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Shoes
Sometimes its hard....cause I can't remember
which shoes are for town, play or snow in December
Shoes are for feet and my feet like to go
to all of the many good places I know
My mom says I cant wear my good shoes outside
but I sometimes forget....and my play shoes hide
So what should I do when my outside kitty beckons me
and my good shoes are the only ones I see?
And while it was kitty I initially saw....
"Well, mom, the mud...I don't know about that at all"
"My play shoes?" Well....I don't know where they are....
I took them off while digging in your car....
I try so hard to keep things straight......
good shoes for town and play shoes for running through the gate
and chasing bugs, digging mud pies and yes, wading the creek.....
but....what do I wear after my play shoes leak?
This really is hard....and I wish I knew
why I can't just wear irrigation boots to church too
So, what am I to do when the world is outside
and I want to be in it and my play shoes hide.
Mom....can I go barefoot....its much more fun....
and far less stressful for everyone. :)
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Little Boy
Little boy you bring me joy
my heart swells with love for you
Little boy you bring me joy
without your hugs what would I do
Little boy you bring me joy
I am blessed to be your mom
Little boy that brings me joy
You sing the melody in my song
Little boy that brings me joy
I prayed and prayed for you
Little boy that brings me joy
I thank God for the miracle of
giving us you
Saturday, August 20, 2011
10 Reasons to Home School
School is right around the corner. We are on the starting blocks. Marks.....Set.......Go!
It's time to shop for school supplies, get things in order and prepare. This year, I think I am ready...and even a little excited. The yellow bus doesn't stop at our house (even though the kids sometimes wish it did), we school at home. We school at the table....outside....in the garden....in the car....while camping....while on trips....we have yet to find a place we can't school. And...I love it.
I will be honest, I didn't intend to home school. My initial dream included educating my kids at a little Christian school....NOT home schooling. Ugh! I didn't think I could teach! How could I home school? And....I really looked forward to having time off...to myself....private school would allow for that!
Well, God had other plans for us. Plans that included a recession....decreased income... no private school....and ultimately home schooling. At first, I fought it. I didn't want to home school. I didn't feel I possessed the talent, the patience or the know-how. I knew public school wasn't a "fit" for us, but didn't feel home schooling was either. What to do? Hum.....we decided to pray (always a good thing to do).
And...it's funny.....God always answers prayer. He may not answer it the way you want (sometimes He does), but He always answers it. His answer to my specific prayer: He changed my heart. He gave me a passion for home schooling my kids. He gave me a passion to spend more time with them. He gave me eyes to see the situation differently: what schooling at home would do for our family.
I found myself becoming passionate about teaching, curriculum and the process of educating my children. I still enjoyed time to myself, but became more excited about passing knowledge onto my kids....watching their faces as they learn something fascinating (and even ask to hear more). I became more excited about introducing them to God's creations.... And ultimately learning along with them.
Well, I have created a list: 10 Reasons to Home School. These are 10 things I love about the process of Home Schooling:
1. You get to KNOW your kids on a whole new level.
2. You get to control the education they get....when, where, how, what, and WHY!
3. You teach, therefore YOU learn along with them.
4. You can travel without consequence...and the kids learn along the way.
5. You can teach while living everyday life. A good place to teach life science: the garden.
6. You can successfully complete a day's worth of curriculum into 3 hours. Why subject them to 8 hours of school they can complete in 3?
7. You can assure your child gets one on one attention (from a person that loves them).
8. You will add structure to your life.
9. You will witness the fascination of learning new things first hand....and you can foster it.
10. You get to facilitate field trips!
These are just 10 reasons why I love home schooling, there are more. I admit, it's not always easy and it's not for everyone. We've had our hard times too. But, it's so very worth it! Kids grow up so fast....why not spend more time with them? God will hand out what you need, if you ask. He has patience to give, wisdom to deliver, and love to transcend the most chaotic home. You have all you need at your fingertips. You won't regret it. There is some awesome curriculum available as well (many have gone before), so you need not create your own path.
Just some thoughts........
It's time to shop for school supplies, get things in order and prepare. This year, I think I am ready...and even a little excited. The yellow bus doesn't stop at our house (even though the kids sometimes wish it did), we school at home. We school at the table....outside....in the garden....in the car....while camping....while on trips....we have yet to find a place we can't school. And...I love it.
I will be honest, I didn't intend to home school. My initial dream included educating my kids at a little Christian school....NOT home schooling. Ugh! I didn't think I could teach! How could I home school? And....I really looked forward to having time off...to myself....private school would allow for that!
Well, God had other plans for us. Plans that included a recession....decreased income... no private school....and ultimately home schooling. At first, I fought it. I didn't want to home school. I didn't feel I possessed the talent, the patience or the know-how. I knew public school wasn't a "fit" for us, but didn't feel home schooling was either. What to do? Hum.....we decided to pray (always a good thing to do).
And...it's funny.....God always answers prayer. He may not answer it the way you want (sometimes He does), but He always answers it. His answer to my specific prayer: He changed my heart. He gave me a passion for home schooling my kids. He gave me a passion to spend more time with them. He gave me eyes to see the situation differently: what schooling at home would do for our family.
I found myself becoming passionate about teaching, curriculum and the process of educating my children. I still enjoyed time to myself, but became more excited about passing knowledge onto my kids....watching their faces as they learn something fascinating (and even ask to hear more). I became more excited about introducing them to God's creations.... And ultimately learning along with them.
Well, I have created a list: 10 Reasons to Home School. These are 10 things I love about the process of Home Schooling:
1. You get to KNOW your kids on a whole new level.
2. You get to control the education they get....when, where, how, what, and WHY!
3. You teach, therefore YOU learn along with them.
4. You can travel without consequence...and the kids learn along the way.
5. You can teach while living everyday life. A good place to teach life science: the garden.
6. You can successfully complete a day's worth of curriculum into 3 hours. Why subject them to 8 hours of school they can complete in 3?
7. You can assure your child gets one on one attention (from a person that loves them).
8. You will add structure to your life.
9. You will witness the fascination of learning new things first hand....and you can foster it.
10. You get to facilitate field trips!
These are just 10 reasons why I love home schooling, there are more. I admit, it's not always easy and it's not for everyone. We've had our hard times too. But, it's so very worth it! Kids grow up so fast....why not spend more time with them? God will hand out what you need, if you ask. He has patience to give, wisdom to deliver, and love to transcend the most chaotic home. You have all you need at your fingertips. You won't regret it. There is some awesome curriculum available as well (many have gone before), so you need not create your own path.
Just some thoughts........
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Annie and Shortcake
She's growing up. My baby isn't quite the "baby" she used to be.
Where does time go? Just recently she weighed 7# 13 oz.....now she's up, running and off at the races. I need to enjoy my time with her while she's little. She still has little hands, but already she has big dreams. I thank God for my kids!
Friday, July 29, 2011
Ordering Water
It doesn't rain here often. Living where we do, we must order our irrigation water from the local irrigation company. We order the amount we need and specify the duration over which we need it. We have a small irrigation "creek" running a portion of our property where water is funneled from a larger ditch. This is the way we "water" our pastures and gardens.
Recently, upon visiting my parents (living across the state) my son was astounded at their standing water. My parents get much more rain than do we and also live near a river. They have little need to irrigate as we do. Upon seeing all the water in puddles, in a pond and the river, my son just stared. "Grandpa", my son asks my dad. "How did you order all this water?" "What do you mean?", my dad asks. "Well, how did you order all this water, grandpa?" Still not understanding the question, grandpa again asked Hap to clarify. "I am not sure what you mean, Hap." To this Hap replies, "whenever we want water, grandpa, my dad's gotta order it!" "And this is a lot!" Grandpa smiled.
It occurred to me just how small my son's little world is. And.......how dry our area is. My sweet boy knows where milk and eggs come from, but is certain water comes from the irrigation company. This year I plan on reviewing "rain" in our science curriculum..... Bless his heart!
Recently, upon visiting my parents (living across the state) my son was astounded at their standing water. My parents get much more rain than do we and also live near a river. They have little need to irrigate as we do. Upon seeing all the water in puddles, in a pond and the river, my son just stared. "Grandpa", my son asks my dad. "How did you order all this water?" "What do you mean?", my dad asks. "Well, how did you order all this water, grandpa?" Still not understanding the question, grandpa again asked Hap to clarify. "I am not sure what you mean, Hap." To this Hap replies, "whenever we want water, grandpa, my dad's gotta order it!" "And this is a lot!" Grandpa smiled.
It occurred to me just how small my son's little world is. And.......how dry our area is. My sweet boy knows where milk and eggs come from, but is certain water comes from the irrigation company. This year I plan on reviewing "rain" in our science curriculum..... Bless his heart!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Ice Cream
There's something about ice cream and a hot summers day. Something magical.....wonderful.....and something so yummy! The hot summer sun.....ice cream drips running down the cone.....to catch them all before they run down your wrist.
Freckles reflecting the sun. Furrowed brow....deep in concentration.....not to lose one drip drop!
Summer memories.
Two of her favorite things.....ice cream and her baby......cat that is....Mittens. Sweet melting cream in one hand and Mittens in the other. A wonderful summer day....life is good!
For the little one that cares about the drips.....and concerns more about messy hands....her towel.... Life is good.
Summer is short....but it is so sweet. Soon will come the bustling of school....schedules and routine. The weather will cool down and only memories will be left of the carefree, sweet summer days. Ice Cream.....sprinklers......family.....fun!
Living in the moment and making the most of it!!!
Freckles reflecting the sun. Furrowed brow....deep in concentration.....not to lose one drip drop!
Summer memories.
For the little one that cares about the drips.....and concerns more about messy hands....her towel.... Life is good.
Summer is short....but it is so sweet. Soon will come the bustling of school....schedules and routine. The weather will cool down and only memories will be left of the carefree, sweet summer days. Ice Cream.....sprinklers......family.....fun!
Living in the moment and making the most of it!!!
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Asthma
I have a lot to be thankful for. I am so blessed with the family God's given me. My children....the one's I prayed for. I am thankful God.....so thankful.
I need to find the blessings in everything....because there are blessings in everything....in everything. It's hard sometimes to find blessings in asthma though. My sweet little boy sometimes struggles to breathe. It's something he was born with.....from the moment of delivery my little man seem to struggle. A short NICU stay because he couldn't catch his breath.
As he approached a year old his breathing problems got worse. Enough that it landed him in the doctor's office frequently, the specialist office and the emergency room. Why God? Why does my baby struggle to breath? Why can't he run and play without coughing? Why can't he smell flowers like everyone else? Why is he allergic to so many things? His sisters sleep through the night peacefully.....he can't. I am frustrated God.....
Those thoughts still cross my mind sometimes. Especially at 3 am during nebulizer treatments when sleep evades him for coughing. God, will he be able to play football when he grows up......like he so wants to? Will he have to carry an Epi-pen? Will he always be on medication?
I do have to say he is improving. Things aren't as bad as they used to be. Each asthma attack...though sometimes scary does seem to decrease in intensity. That is a blessing! Maybe at some point he will even out grow it.....there is always hope! And....there are other asthmatics in my extended family....there are others that feel this also.
In counting my blessing I do love the cuddle time I get with him. The 3 am nebulizer treatments have given us many hours of cuddle time. No one else awake....just he and I. Snuggle time on the cozy couch with a blanket and his nebulizer.... I am thankful for that. I have an extra bond with him that asthma has facilitated. I will count that as a blessing!
I also thank God for modern medicine. Truly a blessing. I know God doesn't require medication to heal....He is the Almighty Healer. He has a plan and He is in control. For that I am truly thankful.
Because I am tired....I will sign off. My son is peacefully sleeping and I should close my eyes as well.
I need to find the blessings in everything....because there are blessings in everything....in everything. It's hard sometimes to find blessings in asthma though. My sweet little boy sometimes struggles to breathe. It's something he was born with.....from the moment of delivery my little man seem to struggle. A short NICU stay because he couldn't catch his breath.
As he approached a year old his breathing problems got worse. Enough that it landed him in the doctor's office frequently, the specialist office and the emergency room. Why God? Why does my baby struggle to breath? Why can't he run and play without coughing? Why can't he smell flowers like everyone else? Why is he allergic to so many things? His sisters sleep through the night peacefully.....he can't. I am frustrated God.....
Those thoughts still cross my mind sometimes. Especially at 3 am during nebulizer treatments when sleep evades him for coughing. God, will he be able to play football when he grows up......like he so wants to? Will he have to carry an Epi-pen? Will he always be on medication?
I do have to say he is improving. Things aren't as bad as they used to be. Each asthma attack...though sometimes scary does seem to decrease in intensity. That is a blessing! Maybe at some point he will even out grow it.....there is always hope! And....there are other asthmatics in my extended family....there are others that feel this also.
In counting my blessing I do love the cuddle time I get with him. The 3 am nebulizer treatments have given us many hours of cuddle time. No one else awake....just he and I. Snuggle time on the cozy couch with a blanket and his nebulizer.... I am thankful for that. I have an extra bond with him that asthma has facilitated. I will count that as a blessing!
I also thank God for modern medicine. Truly a blessing. I know God doesn't require medication to heal....He is the Almighty Healer. He has a plan and He is in control. For that I am truly thankful.
Because I am tired....I will sign off. My son is peacefully sleeping and I should close my eyes as well.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Cherry Pickin' Time
Wouldn't you know it.....an opportunity to photograph the most photogenic fruit in its native environment...and I forgot my camera! Well....that's okay I took pictures once it hit my counter top.
Cherry pickin' time!!! My family loves cherries. I am not a $3.00/lb for cherries kinda girl....rather a pick em myself for free. Its' better on the budget as well as satisfying and kinda therapeutic. The pickin' makes em sweeter.
Cherries from an old farmstead.....very old trees that have no doubt seen many eager fingers. Farm wives and children, as well as many birds, have enjoyed their fruit. With the help of a wonderful friend we each salvaged more than our share. The kids even helped. I think the ladder enticed them more than the cherries themselves. Though the cherries came in a close second.
A wonderful day.....harvest has begun.....my most favorite season of the year.
Cherries are so beautiful. Thank you Lord!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Little Sure Shot
"I do it my big-self." My sweet little pistol. My third child. Blessed with the gift of administration. A steadfast will.
She fills my heart with love. Makes me smile. Taught me a lot about myself. She is my mini-me. Keeps me in prayer.
Her name is appropriate, "Annie". My little "Sure Shot". Confidence. Ability. I pray as her mama, God will help us shape her into the person He has designed. She will then be an effective "marksman" in life.
Thank you God for my Annie!
She fills my heart with love. Makes me smile. Taught me a lot about myself. She is my mini-me. Keeps me in prayer.
Her name is appropriate, "Annie". My little "Sure Shot". Confidence. Ability. I pray as her mama, God will help us shape her into the person He has designed. She will then be an effective "marksman" in life.
Thank you God for my Annie!
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Adventure
This precious little bridge. It crosses the creek running our property. Created by the fingers and ingenuity of my children. It is precious to me. It is the highway to adventure. Adventure beyond familiarity. Big plans and lots of imagination. Dry shoes.
Where there is a will, there is a way. They WILL get their wagon across it.
Most likely sooner than later.
I am not sure what's in the wagon, but I know it's very important.
It will soon be followed by a picnic basket...it usually is...and a blanket, most likely my good one.
And...a pair of dry shoes.
Where there is a will, there is a way. They WILL get their wagon across it.
Most likely sooner than later.
I am not sure what's in the wagon, but I know it's very important.
It will soon be followed by a picnic basket...it usually is...and a blanket, most likely my good one.
And...a pair of dry shoes.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Prayers of this Mom
Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
Proverbs 22:6 NIV
I have been given a few charges in my life, but this one tops them all. I know there is nothing in this life I can do without God...and this one especially. I am both in love with and bewildered by this responsibility.
Before I had children I thought I knew exactly how to parent....well, that was before I had children. Now, I've found I know very little. I have entered a big jungle. I am not without a map...God is that map. But, I am human and occasionally forget to ask for access to it...I will be honest.
I love my job as mom though...I wouldn't trade it for the world. Children have a way of defining you, adding crayon marks to the walls of life. Humbling you and reminding you who you really are.
Last night at church I heard a VERY LOUD lion "roaring" in a near-by classroom. I was thinking this little lion was quite loud and slightly over-bearing. As I continued to listen, the little voice behind it became very familiar. This loud, but sweet over-bearing lion was MY DAUGHTER! My youngest daughter. She was engaged in a "roaring" competition with a little boy in class. She was puffing her chest as deep as she could, standing an inch from his face and roaring into his eye-ball (sorry Athan). She needed him to know she was bigger. My sweet little daughter. Where this competitive trait comes from I do know. It looks at me in the mirror. I don't remember "roaring" at the boys in class, but being the best and winning used to be very important to me. Ugh...I guess she's a lot like me. You'd think I would know myself well, but parenting myself is another issue...lol God, I pray for guidance.
"Mom, do I have to do this?", Mattie asks as we start school in the morning. "Yes," I say..."lets just do this and get done!" Mattie doesn't see school as something done quickly. School is the equivalent to washing dishes. She would much rather be climbing trees, making mud pies, chasing her brother, or building a fort. Anything but school! My busy child of mercy struggles to sit. Sitting is for the birds. As a mom I am learning how to do school on the go. School CAN be done while standing on one's head; it can...and it can be done well! Though there are times when sitting is required. But, I am learning new things...life outside the box. Parenting Mattie is an amazingly fast and wonderful ride! Lord, I pray you give me wisdom. Teach me to see things through my children's eyes.
Adoration mixed with a touch of orneriness. That is what I see in Hap's eyes. Orneriness seems to surface a lot actually. I know where that one comes from also. But how do you parent that one? Especially when you find yourself laughing at him. That doesn't help. Convincing his sister to drink dog water isn't funny, but when he looks at you with that little sparkle. God give me discernment to know how react appropriately.
God, please help me to be the parent I need to be; have to be. I pray my children grow to desire you, to love you, to have an awesome relationship with you. Please help me let go of insecurities and pre-conceived notions defining my parenting. I know I am human. I make mistakes but am also forgiven. I pray my children see you in me. That my walk far exceeds my talk. Give me wisdom, there are many things I don't know. Thank you for this amazing lion, gymnast, and little boy. You've blessed me more than I can imagine. I praise you!
Proverbs 22:6 NIV
I have been given a few charges in my life, but this one tops them all. I know there is nothing in this life I can do without God...and this one especially. I am both in love with and bewildered by this responsibility.
Before I had children I thought I knew exactly how to parent....well, that was before I had children. Now, I've found I know very little. I have entered a big jungle. I am not without a map...God is that map. But, I am human and occasionally forget to ask for access to it...I will be honest.
I love my job as mom though...I wouldn't trade it for the world. Children have a way of defining you, adding crayon marks to the walls of life. Humbling you and reminding you who you really are.
Last night at church I heard a VERY LOUD lion "roaring" in a near-by classroom. I was thinking this little lion was quite loud and slightly over-bearing. As I continued to listen, the little voice behind it became very familiar. This loud, but sweet over-bearing lion was MY DAUGHTER! My youngest daughter. She was engaged in a "roaring" competition with a little boy in class. She was puffing her chest as deep as she could, standing an inch from his face and roaring into his eye-ball (sorry Athan). She needed him to know she was bigger. My sweet little daughter. Where this competitive trait comes from I do know. It looks at me in the mirror. I don't remember "roaring" at the boys in class, but being the best and winning used to be very important to me. Ugh...I guess she's a lot like me. You'd think I would know myself well, but parenting myself is another issue...lol God, I pray for guidance.
"Mom, do I have to do this?", Mattie asks as we start school in the morning. "Yes," I say..."lets just do this and get done!" Mattie doesn't see school as something done quickly. School is the equivalent to washing dishes. She would much rather be climbing trees, making mud pies, chasing her brother, or building a fort. Anything but school! My busy child of mercy struggles to sit. Sitting is for the birds. As a mom I am learning how to do school on the go. School CAN be done while standing on one's head; it can...and it can be done well! Though there are times when sitting is required. But, I am learning new things...life outside the box. Parenting Mattie is an amazingly fast and wonderful ride! Lord, I pray you give me wisdom. Teach me to see things through my children's eyes.
Adoration mixed with a touch of orneriness. That is what I see in Hap's eyes. Orneriness seems to surface a lot actually. I know where that one comes from also. But how do you parent that one? Especially when you find yourself laughing at him. That doesn't help. Convincing his sister to drink dog water isn't funny, but when he looks at you with that little sparkle. God give me discernment to know how react appropriately.
God, please help me to be the parent I need to be; have to be. I pray my children grow to desire you, to love you, to have an awesome relationship with you. Please help me let go of insecurities and pre-conceived notions defining my parenting. I know I am human. I make mistakes but am also forgiven. I pray my children see you in me. That my walk far exceeds my talk. Give me wisdom, there are many things I don't know. Thank you for this amazing lion, gymnast, and little boy. You've blessed me more than I can imagine. I praise you!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
They Call Me Mama
"Why did the cat talk to the bird?", "I don't know." "Why?" "Because he wanted to eat it!!!!" "hahahaha"..."Why did the cat talk to the other bird?", "I don't know", "Why?" "Because he wanted to eat him too". "hahahaha!!!!"...."Mom, do you know why the cat talked to the other other bird???" (hum....I wonder) "because he wanted to eat him too!" "hahahaha!" (I think we have a theme here).
"Mom did you know I can run faster than an Allosaurus?" , "I can. Watch!" "Mattie, quit beating me!!!!" "Mom, Mattie is beating me!" "Hap, pick yourself up off the ground, and quit crying, you can still be faster than an Allosaurus if Mattie beats you." "Mattie, can Hap win just this once? Thanks sis."
Four feet of happiness.
I wouldn't trade this for the world!
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