This has to have been one of the best Christmas holidays I have had yet. Probably, our children are at perfect ages to experience the magic of Christmas. All in all, it was a fabulous event....
But, nothing goes off without a hitch at our house. So, the "hitch" came on Christmas Eve. We had been at MeMe and Pop's house for a couple of "sleeps" and were coming back home on the morning of Christmas Eve. We got into town just in time to make it to the 12:30 showing of Alvin and the Chipmunks. This was Claire's first experience at the movies. So, with popcorn, Coke, and snacks we began the adventure. They all did great, and the movie was really cute. I'm not positive that the other people in the movie thought that Claire screaming, "ALVIN!" at the top of her lungs periodically was as cute as we did. But, oh well.
Next, we went home to enjoy a relaxing afternoon of naps and playing with some early Christmas presents. Later in the afternoon, we began to see problems. Caleb was getting VERY upset while playing a soccer game on the Wii. And, when I say "upset", you must picture that he's actually playing soccer in something as important as...let's say....THE OLYMPICS! and not doing well. The emotions that you would imagine during such a situation are what we began to witness. Collin went without a nap, because...it was Christmas Eve. If you know Collin without a nap, I need not go into detail.
So, a little before 5:00, we all go to the church for the Christmas Eve service. There is no childcare during the Christmas Eve service, because families are encouraged to worship together. Since you know that I have a 6 year old, 4 year old and 2 year old, I should probably stop here and let you just imagine how the rest of the night went.
But, I'm not. On our particular pew, there was jumping, crying, eating (SUCKERS!), noisy wadding of paper, more crying, more jumping, and the kicker was Claire elbowing the head of the person sitting below us in the balcony. After much singing, several solos, a few dozen instrumental solos, scripture reading and a candle lighting ceremony...ONE HOUR LATER...we were leaving that horrid pew. I did not make eye contact with the lady whose head was elbowed just minutes earlier.
That probably sounds like enough. I wish!
No, we had to spend some time waiting for Scotty to finish up before leaving. My better judgement told me to get the keys and wait in the car. However, we chose to wait in the welcome area. It was a VERY brief yet VERY horrible wait. I don't remember all of the details. But, I do remember telling the boys (as seriously as if I believed it myself) that if they did not calm down, I would call Santa as soon as we got home and tell him to LEAVE one of their gifts in the North Pole. I didn't say it quietly either, so I'm pretty sure I was the topic of conversation in the privacy of at least a few homes that night.
Things get kind of blurred in my memory from there until the point where Claire bounded out of one of the nice, cushy, chairs for the floor. At that point, Collin wanted to "help her" stop jumping, so he grabbed her legs WHILE SHE WAS IN THE AIR. She landed on her mouth just past the rug onto the bricks.
The white, Christmas shirt got pretty bloody, the boys got a not so fun talking to in the car and we went to Mazzio's to enjoy a nice, Christmas Eve dinner. Believe it or not, we really did have a good time. I guess part of the magic of Christmas is that even the traumatic is soon to be forgotten when Santa is ON HIS WAY!
There were so many wonderful things that we experienced during our vacation. I hate to share this horrible event and make it seem that our entire holiday was full of small disasters. It definitely was not. But, I had to share this story just in case there is anyone out there that thinks we always have it together. (I'm laughing even as I'm typing. Surely, there are none of you left.)
We definitely spent some time being thankful for ALL of our gifts. Christ Jesus is our first. Family and friends to share in our journey of life is close behind. I hope you all had a fantastic holiday as well and are looking forward to a great new year. Personally, I can't wait to see all that 2010 holds.
And, for any of you who haven't already heard the previous story...Claire is fine. Her front tooth may be a little out of place. But, it's not noticeable. It only affected her eating for that night and all of the blood came out of the white, Christmas shirt. So...I think it can be counted as a very minor incident. Those three are capable of much, MUCH worse. :)
Wednesday, December 30
Monday, October 5
Blushing Cheeks
We spent the better part of the day on Saturday at the soccer fields. Collin had a game at 9:00. Then, Caleb had games at 10:00 and 12:00. There wasn't enough time in between the two games, so we just stayed, had lunch and enjoyed the weather. All of us were so happy that the soccer fields had not washed away, we could have stayed out there ALL day.
But, due to our inability to be outside for the better part of the last three weeks, our summer tans have officially vanished. Everyone left with a little too much sun on our faces. Claire's was the worst, and I didn't even notice it until she woke up from her nap. She fell asleep on the way home and was just moved to her bed. When I went to get her later in the afternoon, I noticed that her cheeks were toasty red.
Later on in the day, Scotty was taking Caleb to a birthday party. He had observed Claire's cheek redness and said, "Dad, Claire looks like she likes a boy."
Now, I'm just wondering if he's seen that on a t.v. show or movie. Or, maybe he's heard someone talking about "blushing". But, maybe, just maybe, he has felt the heat in his cheeks over his own intrigue with girls. Hmmm...
And, since most of you know Caleb, you know I'll just have to keep on wondering. He'll never tell!
But, due to our inability to be outside for the better part of the last three weeks, our summer tans have officially vanished. Everyone left with a little too much sun on our faces. Claire's was the worst, and I didn't even notice it until she woke up from her nap. She fell asleep on the way home and was just moved to her bed. When I went to get her later in the afternoon, I noticed that her cheeks were toasty red.
Later on in the day, Scotty was taking Caleb to a birthday party. He had observed Claire's cheek redness and said, "Dad, Claire looks like she likes a boy."
Now, I'm just wondering if he's seen that on a t.v. show or movie. Or, maybe he's heard someone talking about "blushing". But, maybe, just maybe, he has felt the heat in his cheeks over his own intrigue with girls. Hmmm...
And, since most of you know Caleb, you know I'll just have to keep on wondering. He'll never tell!
Monday, September 21
Homework Hassels, Hair Dos, and A Lot of Help
Well...I almost don't remember how to post on this blog anymore. It's been a really long time, and I have been sufficiently harassed by many. I'd love to say that I am back and will be posting more frequently from here on out. But, that is probably not the case. So, just to make up for so much time lost, this entry will be super long.
As you know, school is back in session. Before I begin to shell out complaints in my usual blogging fashion, I must first admit that I love it. I love fixing lunches, organizing backpacks, taking to school, picking up from school, and DOING HOMEWORK. I really do. I think back to my days of teaching. I remember greeting children as they entered, checking homework from the night before, assigning homework, and sending them home at the end of the day. And, it's fun for me to be on the other side now.
However, my Caleb DOES NOT enjoy the homework so much. He is exhausted when he comes home in the afternoon. They have worked HARD all day. There are no nap mats in first grade, so he's working from 7:30 until 2:30. Even though the homework only takes about 15 minutes (including reading his book), he is completely ticked off about having to do it.
On top of that, his mother wants to go through each and every paper and "work through" any mess ups. For him, this is the icing on the cake. He HATES messing up. So, when I show him the mistake and begin talking about what happened, he makes the worst face you can imagine and then says things like, "I DON'T KNOW ANYTHING", "SHE ALWAYS MARKS ON MY PAPER" or (my favorite) "I'M JUST NOT GOOD AT SCHOOL".
Is that lovely or what?
O.K., secondly, they have a behavior chart in their room where all students begin the day on green. Their color changes as they make mistakes during the day. Blue is second and, thank goodness, I don't know beyond that. But, twice this first six weeks Caleb has been moved to blue. I didn't make a big deal the first time, but it happened again this past week. I was visiting the school the day it happened, and his teacher told me the story. Then, she said Caleb had been crying about it all morning. "Why," she asked him. "Because I don't want my mom and dad to yell at me."
Well, if I hadn't been warned, I most definitely would have. And, it would not have been the first time I have over reacted. I had a wonderful discussion with his teacher at that point about all of the issues I'm having with Caleb.
She has figured him out. Ms. Kinchen began explaining to me that Caleb is a perfectionist. He doesn't want to mess up...EVER. She told me to back off a little and trust that when the mistake has been made (in behavior or school work), he has been harder on himself than I could ever be on him. As long as it doesn't become a habit, everyone messes up and deserves just a warning occasionally. I am so thankful for Caleb's teacher. She is one of the best in the district, and she is truly making a difference in his life -- and mine too, apparently.
Well, guess what? I knew all of those things about Caleb. Not just because I know him. But, I know myself. In describing Caleb, Ms. Kinchen described his mom. So, why have I been bearing down on him so hard? Because I'm a perfectionist -- I want him to be perfect! And, it took a fabulous teacher to help me see that horrible truth. Caleb and I had a long talk that day about mess ups and failures. From one perfectionist to another, I apologized for being too hard on him and not letting him make a mistake. Even Mamas mess up, and if I'd had a "light", I would have let him move mine to blue. Possibly even red, which I do know is the very worst.
About our Collin, he's sporting a MOHAWK! He has been BEGGING me for about 2 weeks for one. Several of his little friends are wearing their hair spiky. I kept saying "no". His daddy kept saying "no". On Saturday, we took him to get a haircut. We were eating pizza and Scotty took Collin next door while we waited for our food. He came running back into the restaurant sporting his mohawk with a smile from ear to ear. He has told me MANY times this weekend that his haircut is "awesome". Actually, I'd have to agree.
Again, I messed up. It's hair! It will grow back. This was not a battle worth fighting. There are worse things he could have asked to do. And, NO ONE has looked at Collin since his haircut without a smile.
And, finally, Claire bear has terrified us once again with another febrile seizure. It happened last Sunday before church. I'm not going to go through all of the details, because it happened just like the last two episodes. But, I will remind you that the doctors have all told us that children with seizure tendencies usually grow out of them between 3 and 5, and if it's not closer to 3 I might literally lose my mind. Just sayin'!
On a happier note, though. Claire has turned into quite the helper. She wants to assist in all of my chores. She loads and unloads the dryer. She loves to help me fold clothes. However, when she's done, I really just have a very tall stack of all of the clothes that were in the dryer. And, last night she helped me rinse the dishes and load the dishwasher. Basically, she turned a 10 minute project into a 30 minute project. At the end of which, she needed a new set of pajamas and I had to mop down the kitchen. But, she did have a good time.
CHILDREN!!! They consume our thoughts, the minutes of each day, and now all of the space I could possibly cover in my blog. If I'm gone too long, it would be safe for you to assume that I am bogged down in the happenings of one or more of the little people previously mentioned. They are precious in every way. While they fill my days with unexpected, shocking and sometimes scary events, I do know that these are the days I will miss terribly in a few short years. So, I am trying to carve out a little piece of time each day to just RELAX and ENJOY. Yesterday AND today, I gave myself permission to nap with Collin just because he asked me to (and I was exhausted).
It took a teacher, a silly haircut and one more scare from Claire bear, but I've been reminded to slow down and calm down. And, here is a verse that has been put in front of me on several different occasions over the last week. Maybe it applies to this post, maybe not. Maybe you (like me) just need to hear it:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything through prayer and petition offer your requests to God. And, the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4: 6-7
As you know, school is back in session. Before I begin to shell out complaints in my usual blogging fashion, I must first admit that I love it. I love fixing lunches, organizing backpacks, taking to school, picking up from school, and DOING HOMEWORK. I really do. I think back to my days of teaching. I remember greeting children as they entered, checking homework from the night before, assigning homework, and sending them home at the end of the day. And, it's fun for me to be on the other side now.
However, my Caleb DOES NOT enjoy the homework so much. He is exhausted when he comes home in the afternoon. They have worked HARD all day. There are no nap mats in first grade, so he's working from 7:30 until 2:30. Even though the homework only takes about 15 minutes (including reading his book), he is completely ticked off about having to do it.
On top of that, his mother wants to go through each and every paper and "work through" any mess ups. For him, this is the icing on the cake. He HATES messing up. So, when I show him the mistake and begin talking about what happened, he makes the worst face you can imagine and then says things like, "I DON'T KNOW ANYTHING", "SHE ALWAYS MARKS ON MY PAPER" or (my favorite) "I'M JUST NOT GOOD AT SCHOOL".
Is that lovely or what?
O.K., secondly, they have a behavior chart in their room where all students begin the day on green. Their color changes as they make mistakes during the day. Blue is second and, thank goodness, I don't know beyond that. But, twice this first six weeks Caleb has been moved to blue. I didn't make a big deal the first time, but it happened again this past week. I was visiting the school the day it happened, and his teacher told me the story. Then, she said Caleb had been crying about it all morning. "Why," she asked him. "Because I don't want my mom and dad to yell at me."
Well, if I hadn't been warned, I most definitely would have. And, it would not have been the first time I have over reacted. I had a wonderful discussion with his teacher at that point about all of the issues I'm having with Caleb.
She has figured him out. Ms. Kinchen began explaining to me that Caleb is a perfectionist. He doesn't want to mess up...EVER. She told me to back off a little and trust that when the mistake has been made (in behavior or school work), he has been harder on himself than I could ever be on him. As long as it doesn't become a habit, everyone messes up and deserves just a warning occasionally. I am so thankful for Caleb's teacher. She is one of the best in the district, and she is truly making a difference in his life -- and mine too, apparently.
Well, guess what? I knew all of those things about Caleb. Not just because I know him. But, I know myself. In describing Caleb, Ms. Kinchen described his mom. So, why have I been bearing down on him so hard? Because I'm a perfectionist -- I want him to be perfect! And, it took a fabulous teacher to help me see that horrible truth. Caleb and I had a long talk that day about mess ups and failures. From one perfectionist to another, I apologized for being too hard on him and not letting him make a mistake. Even Mamas mess up, and if I'd had a "light", I would have let him move mine to blue. Possibly even red, which I do know is the very worst.
About our Collin, he's sporting a MOHAWK! He has been BEGGING me for about 2 weeks for one. Several of his little friends are wearing their hair spiky. I kept saying "no". His daddy kept saying "no". On Saturday, we took him to get a haircut. We were eating pizza and Scotty took Collin next door while we waited for our food. He came running back into the restaurant sporting his mohawk with a smile from ear to ear. He has told me MANY times this weekend that his haircut is "awesome". Actually, I'd have to agree.
Again, I messed up. It's hair! It will grow back. This was not a battle worth fighting. There are worse things he could have asked to do. And, NO ONE has looked at Collin since his haircut without a smile.
And, finally, Claire bear has terrified us once again with another febrile seizure. It happened last Sunday before church. I'm not going to go through all of the details, because it happened just like the last two episodes. But, I will remind you that the doctors have all told us that children with seizure tendencies usually grow out of them between 3 and 5, and if it's not closer to 3 I might literally lose my mind. Just sayin'!
On a happier note, though. Claire has turned into quite the helper. She wants to assist in all of my chores. She loads and unloads the dryer. She loves to help me fold clothes. However, when she's done, I really just have a very tall stack of all of the clothes that were in the dryer. And, last night she helped me rinse the dishes and load the dishwasher. Basically, she turned a 10 minute project into a 30 minute project. At the end of which, she needed a new set of pajamas and I had to mop down the kitchen. But, she did have a good time.
CHILDREN!!! They consume our thoughts, the minutes of each day, and now all of the space I could possibly cover in my blog. If I'm gone too long, it would be safe for you to assume that I am bogged down in the happenings of one or more of the little people previously mentioned. They are precious in every way. While they fill my days with unexpected, shocking and sometimes scary events, I do know that these are the days I will miss terribly in a few short years. So, I am trying to carve out a little piece of time each day to just RELAX and ENJOY. Yesterday AND today, I gave myself permission to nap with Collin just because he asked me to (and I was exhausted).
It took a teacher, a silly haircut and one more scare from Claire bear, but I've been reminded to slow down and calm down. And, here is a verse that has been put in front of me on several different occasions over the last week. Maybe it applies to this post, maybe not. Maybe you (like me) just need to hear it:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything through prayer and petition offer your requests to God. And, the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4: 6-7
Friday, August 21
Classic Collin
UPDATE! (8/22/09)
As per Sassy's suggestions, I have included "proof" of Collin's love for all things baby. They have been added to the end of my original post which is..
The other day, I was driving home with only Collin in the car. He is my chatterbox on the road. If he's not talking to me, he's making another sort of continuous noise. He does not believe in quiet time in the car.
He asked me several questions about Claire being a baby. Then, he asked a few questions about when he was a baby. After hearing all of my answers, he pondered for a few minutes and then said, "When I grow up I'm gonna be a baby!"
He does love to be a baby. And, after all of my worries about him being lost in the mix as the "middle child", it may be Claire we have to worry about. I mean, what do you do if you ARE the youngest but your big brother determines he IS the baby?
We shall see!
As per Sassy's suggestions, I have included "proof" of Collin's love for all things baby. They have been added to the end of my original post which is..
The other day, I was driving home with only Collin in the car. He is my chatterbox on the road. If he's not talking to me, he's making another sort of continuous noise. He does not believe in quiet time in the car.
He asked me several questions about Claire being a baby. Then, he asked a few questions about when he was a baby. After hearing all of my answers, he pondered for a few minutes and then said, "When I grow up I'm gonna be a baby!"
He does love to be a baby. And, after all of my worries about him being lost in the mix as the "middle child", it may be Claire we have to worry about. I mean, what do you do if you ARE the youngest but your big brother determines he IS the baby?
We shall see!
Tuesday, August 18
Our Little Copycat!!!
Yes. I know I need to update this blog with pictures of Caleb and his first days of first grade. And, I realize you'd all like to see Collin off to his first day of four year old preschool today. I would LOVE to share those with you. But, I haven't had a second to upload those pictures and organize them.
So, that will have to wait for another day. For those of you wondering...Both boys had fabulous first days.
The best part of each first day has been that Scotty was able to join in our fun. For the past three years, Scotty has been driving other people's children to school via his school bus. But, due to the new full time job that includes benefits, he is with us every morning. Yippee!!!
So, last Thursday we all took Caleb to first grade. As we pulled in, cars lined every free spot and a gazillion parents were walking children in. I was explaining the situation to Scotty (who as I stated before) is unfamiliar with our morning routine when Caleb chimes in..."Well, you're not walking me in." That's our independent fella. I really love that about him....MOST of the time.
Collin had a great day today also. He was eager to tell me all about his day; then, he took a good, long nap. So, I guess the fun wore him out.
But, since I don't have pictures of either of those events YET, I thought I'd share what Claire is doing these days. She is copying EVERYTHING her big brothers do. She's working on copying what we say, but it still doesn't sound anything like our words, so her actions are more noticeable.
If the boys are playing the Wii, she gets a spare remote and pretends to play the game. If they are riding bikes, she is on a skateboard. When they are wrestling, she waits for just the right time and jumps right into the middle of the madness.
I was flipping through beach pictures again the other day and got "stuck" looking over this one. It is priceless to me, because she was very careful to mimic everything those boys were doing. They clearly stooped down to be even with her. But, that was unnecessary, because she just stooped even lower in order to "look" just like they did for the picture.
So fun! And, while the boys will nearly bite the other's head off for "copying", they don't seem to mind so much when "Claire bear" does it. I'll enjoy it while it lasts, because I'm sure her day is coming.
So, that will have to wait for another day. For those of you wondering...Both boys had fabulous first days.
The best part of each first day has been that Scotty was able to join in our fun. For the past three years, Scotty has been driving other people's children to school via his school bus. But, due to the new full time job that includes benefits, he is with us every morning. Yippee!!!
So, last Thursday we all took Caleb to first grade. As we pulled in, cars lined every free spot and a gazillion parents were walking children in. I was explaining the situation to Scotty (who as I stated before) is unfamiliar with our morning routine when Caleb chimes in..."Well, you're not walking me in." That's our independent fella. I really love that about him....MOST of the time.
Collin had a great day today also. He was eager to tell me all about his day; then, he took a good, long nap. So, I guess the fun wore him out.
But, since I don't have pictures of either of those events YET, I thought I'd share what Claire is doing these days. She is copying EVERYTHING her big brothers do. She's working on copying what we say, but it still doesn't sound anything like our words, so her actions are more noticeable.
If the boys are playing the Wii, she gets a spare remote and pretends to play the game. If they are riding bikes, she is on a skateboard. When they are wrestling, she waits for just the right time and jumps right into the middle of the madness.
I was flipping through beach pictures again the other day and got "stuck" looking over this one. It is priceless to me, because she was very careful to mimic everything those boys were doing. They clearly stooped down to be even with her. But, that was unnecessary, because she just stooped even lower in order to "look" just like they did for the picture.
So fun! And, while the boys will nearly bite the other's head off for "copying", they don't seem to mind so much when "Claire bear" does it. I'll enjoy it while it lasts, because I'm sure her day is coming.
Sunday, August 2
A Routine In Sight
I love routine! Actually, I thrive in a routine. When I taught school, one of my favorite things to do was to create our "daily schedule". Granted the benefit of having a self contained classroom was that I could vary the schedule on occasion, because I was only working around myself. However, that didn't happen much. Why? Because, I LOVE a routine.
Now, at the end of this last school year, we were all ready for a little break from the craziness of our schedule. We thoroughly enjoyed the lazy days of June as we did WHAT we wanted WHEN we wanted (as long as it didn't interfere with baseball). Then, in July, the schedule just went haywire as I taught a class for MC. It was a 1 hour aerobics class that met every morning from 8:00 until 8:50. It was a great experience and a little bit more money. I really enjoyed it and will do more of it in the fall. But, I had to get a sub for my cycle classes at the Y (which I love) and EVERY morning of the week at 8:00 with little ones gets difficult. And, then came...VACATION! And, who keeps a schedule on vacation? Not even me.
So, tomorrow, I get to return to the Y. I can hardly wait. I miss my class terribly and my rear end and tummy clearly miss the bike. I'm also hoping to add some of our swim time back to our Y schedule for this last week of summer. Next Tuesday, we get to meet Caleb's teacher. On Thursday, he returns to school. The following Monday, Collin goes back to school.
What am I saying?
Our routine is in sight. Yippee!!!
Don't get me wrong. I love my children, and I'm even a bit misty eyed thinking about our fun summer coming to and end. But, I know good things are coming. I have to give up one phase to fully enjoy the benefits of the next. So, I'm ready to embrace the schedule that is just around the corner.
I can't help but wonder if there is anyone reading this that is a little apprehensive about the schedule that is approaching in your house. Maybe there is a little one in your home making a transition. If that is the case, I encourage you to look forward to it with great anticipation. It was this time last year that I began this blog. One of my first posts was celebrating Caleb's first days of kindergarten. "To everything there is a season..." So, don't let anything hinder you from enjoying THIS SEASON. We'll only get this one chance.
Now, at the end of this last school year, we were all ready for a little break from the craziness of our schedule. We thoroughly enjoyed the lazy days of June as we did WHAT we wanted WHEN we wanted (as long as it didn't interfere with baseball). Then, in July, the schedule just went haywire as I taught a class for MC. It was a 1 hour aerobics class that met every morning from 8:00 until 8:50. It was a great experience and a little bit more money. I really enjoyed it and will do more of it in the fall. But, I had to get a sub for my cycle classes at the Y (which I love) and EVERY morning of the week at 8:00 with little ones gets difficult. And, then came...VACATION! And, who keeps a schedule on vacation? Not even me.
So, tomorrow, I get to return to the Y. I can hardly wait. I miss my class terribly and my rear end and tummy clearly miss the bike. I'm also hoping to add some of our swim time back to our Y schedule for this last week of summer. Next Tuesday, we get to meet Caleb's teacher. On Thursday, he returns to school. The following Monday, Collin goes back to school.
What am I saying?
Our routine is in sight. Yippee!!!
Don't get me wrong. I love my children, and I'm even a bit misty eyed thinking about our fun summer coming to and end. But, I know good things are coming. I have to give up one phase to fully enjoy the benefits of the next. So, I'm ready to embrace the schedule that is just around the corner.
I can't help but wonder if there is anyone reading this that is a little apprehensive about the schedule that is approaching in your house. Maybe there is a little one in your home making a transition. If that is the case, I encourage you to look forward to it with great anticipation. It was this time last year that I began this blog. One of my first posts was celebrating Caleb's first days of kindergarten. "To everything there is a season..." So, don't let anything hinder you from enjoying THIS SEASON. We'll only get this one chance.
Wednesday, July 29
Greetings from the BEACH!!!
We are having a blast on the beach. The weather has been great so far, even though I was more than a little concerned about it on the way over. We drove through rain most of the trip yesterday. Upon arrival, the skies were clear, so we "suited up" and hit the beach immediately.
Last night, we planned to get a quick bite to eat and purchase some groceries. We ended up getting soaked in the process, but it was fun.
We woke up to sunny skies this morning, so we stayed out and about ALL day. Well, most of us...Claire went down for a nap around 11:30 and finally woke up after three. I guess we wore her out.
Anyway, a couple of family members are totally responsible for us being able to come to the beach. A few others were thoughtful enough to even make sure the kids had ice cream money and souvenir shopping money. So, I thought the least I could do was to post some pictures so that it might FEEL like you are a part of the fun...
If you know Caleb well, then you are as surprised as I was to see him both deep in the ocean water AND deep in the sand. He hit the beach with a little more adventure than normal. AND, shortly after, he was nursing a jelly fish sting. Bummer! But, he went right back out after lunch. Thank goodness.
Collin, as usual, had BIG FUN in his own little world. I caught many eyes looking his way and grinning at what they saw.
Claire clung to ANYONE who would take her OUT into the ocean. She got more brave with the water as the day went on. But, she still wasn't comfortable walking out on her own. So, Mama and Daddy (mostly Daddy) have tired arms.
We are ready for more beach fun tomorrow.
Last night, we planned to get a quick bite to eat and purchase some groceries. We ended up getting soaked in the process, but it was fun.
We woke up to sunny skies this morning, so we stayed out and about ALL day. Well, most of us...Claire went down for a nap around 11:30 and finally woke up after three. I guess we wore her out.
Anyway, a couple of family members are totally responsible for us being able to come to the beach. A few others were thoughtful enough to even make sure the kids had ice cream money and souvenir shopping money. So, I thought the least I could do was to post some pictures so that it might FEEL like you are a part of the fun...
If you know Caleb well, then you are as surprised as I was to see him both deep in the ocean water AND deep in the sand. He hit the beach with a little more adventure than normal. AND, shortly after, he was nursing a jelly fish sting. Bummer! But, he went right back out after lunch. Thank goodness.
Collin, as usual, had BIG FUN in his own little world. I caught many eyes looking his way and grinning at what they saw.
Claire clung to ANYONE who would take her OUT into the ocean. She got more brave with the water as the day went on. But, she still wasn't comfortable walking out on her own. So, Mama and Daddy (mostly Daddy) have tired arms.
We are ready for more beach fun tomorrow.
Wednesday, July 22
Happy Birthday, Claire...LATE!
Are you beginning to recognize a pattern? Tardiness is my new trend.
This past Sunday, we celebrated Claire's second birthday. TWO YEARS OLD! I know the phrase, "where did the time go" is very much over used. But, I can't think of any other phrase to express how I feel about our baby girl being 2 years old.
I found out that I was pregnant with Claire during Thanksgiving break of 2006. Caleb was almost four and Collin was a year and a half. My stomach tightens even as I type the words. This just happens to be around the time that Collin "came alive". He was a handful; and, actually, that is putting it mildly. So, I was more than overwhelmed (and more tired than I ever remember being) at the thought of adding another one to the mix.
Multiplying the insecurities, I was terrified to tell Scotty that we were having another baby. I can honestly say that I had no idea how he would react. So much so that I waited almost 2 whole weeks before I shared the news with him. He responded in genuine joy at the thought that God saw fit to bless us with another child. And, if you can imagine that it is possible, he also responded in very real depression. Sounds harsh, I know. But, we are only human.
We were more than ecstatic when the sonogram showed that we were having a girl. That truly calmed some of my nerves, because I was pretty certain that a two year old girl could not create the madness that two year old boys thrive in. (By the way, I'm paying for those thoughts now.) And, from the moment she arrived, we knew that our lives would be missing something BIG had she not been a part of them.
Today, she brings such joy to our home. She is definitely a "Ms. Priss" and I am positive the boys enjoy having that personality around as much as I do. I feel certain that if she had been the first, she would be much more dainty and sensitive than she is. But, her brothers (and her daddy) have made her tough with just enough sensitivity around the edges. If I began to list all of the differences between "our girl" and "our boys", I could type all day. But, one thing remains the same...LIFE SURE IS PRECIOUS...
young or old.
boy or girl.
planned or unplanned.
And, knowing that there are so many that would give anything for even one child to call their own, Scotty and I remain forever amazed that God chose to grant us three.
You bring such happiness, sweet girl! SO, Happy Birthday to You!!!
This past Sunday, we celebrated Claire's second birthday. TWO YEARS OLD! I know the phrase, "where did the time go" is very much over used. But, I can't think of any other phrase to express how I feel about our baby girl being 2 years old.
I found out that I was pregnant with Claire during Thanksgiving break of 2006. Caleb was almost four and Collin was a year and a half. My stomach tightens even as I type the words. This just happens to be around the time that Collin "came alive". He was a handful; and, actually, that is putting it mildly. So, I was more than overwhelmed (and more tired than I ever remember being) at the thought of adding another one to the mix.
Multiplying the insecurities, I was terrified to tell Scotty that we were having another baby. I can honestly say that I had no idea how he would react. So much so that I waited almost 2 whole weeks before I shared the news with him. He responded in genuine joy at the thought that God saw fit to bless us with another child. And, if you can imagine that it is possible, he also responded in very real depression. Sounds harsh, I know. But, we are only human.
We were more than ecstatic when the sonogram showed that we were having a girl. That truly calmed some of my nerves, because I was pretty certain that a two year old girl could not create the madness that two year old boys thrive in. (By the way, I'm paying for those thoughts now.) And, from the moment she arrived, we knew that our lives would be missing something BIG had she not been a part of them.
Today, she brings such joy to our home. She is definitely a "Ms. Priss" and I am positive the boys enjoy having that personality around as much as I do. I feel certain that if she had been the first, she would be much more dainty and sensitive than she is. But, her brothers (and her daddy) have made her tough with just enough sensitivity around the edges. If I began to list all of the differences between "our girl" and "our boys", I could type all day. But, one thing remains the same...LIFE SURE IS PRECIOUS...
young or old.
boy or girl.
planned or unplanned.
And, knowing that there are so many that would give anything for even one child to call their own, Scotty and I remain forever amazed that God chose to grant us three.
You bring such happiness, sweet girl! SO, Happy Birthday to You!!!
Saturday, July 11
One Year
My sister sent me an email devotion the other day that was really good. I won't quote from the whole thing, but the last line has stuck with me.
"When you are gone, no one will remember all that you did. They will not remember all that you said. But, they will remember how you made them feel."
Profound. Tomorrow marks one year that this world has been without Jon Jason Weathers. No doubt about it, there are only positive words to describe how Jason made you feel. For the day, I am going to try to focus on how much better we are having enjoyed his presence even for a little while.
And, then, I will commit to pray and love Stephanie, Anna Lea, Jon Brent and Ally through another year without him. I would LOVE for you to join me in that cause.
"When you are gone, no one will remember all that you did. They will not remember all that you said. But, they will remember how you made them feel."
Profound. Tomorrow marks one year that this world has been without Jon Jason Weathers. No doubt about it, there are only positive words to describe how Jason made you feel. For the day, I am going to try to focus on how much better we are having enjoyed his presence even for a little while.
And, then, I will commit to pray and love Stephanie, Anna Lea, Jon Brent and Ally through another year without him. I would LOVE for you to join me in that cause.
Thursday, July 9
PEACE
I knew it was coming. As soon as I rolled the calendar over to July, my stomach tightened at the thought of what was now just around the corner. Anniversaries are usually such a happy time. Except when the anniversary marks the death of someone close to you...a friend, a father, a husband, a son. July 12th is that kind of anniversary. That is the day that Jason Weathers went to heaven leaving my friend, Stephanie, and their three precious children.
I love it when God speaks to me in a VERY real way, yet very unexpected way. I went to KinderTOT camp with Collin today (at his request). While I watched, I did a little bit of my Bible study which is Beth Moore's study of the fruit of the Spirit. The week's lesson is on peace. Could that be any more perfect for this week? Peace. When life is good. Peace. When life is hard. Peace. When life is downright unbearable.
In the very first day's study, I was led through Job. What a perfect example of a life at peace even in the most difficult of circumstances. Beth Moore even stated that surely God gave us Job so that, no matter what we are going through, we can look at Job and say, "He had it so much worse than me, and he made it."
I was moving through the study as I always do. Reading passages, filling in blanks, etc. when I stumbled across a few verses that I honestly do not ever remember reading.
In the second or third chapter, Job is covered in sores, he's lost all of his possessions and his children. I read across everyone's most familiar portion of Job. His wife tells him to "curse God and die". Then, I read through few verses about Job's friends. They hear of his situation and come to visit him. The scriptures say that they could barely recognize him from a distance. But, as they got closer, they tore their clothes and wept for him because his grief was so great.
This is how I feel most days. I just want to sit down and cry for my friend, because her grief is so great. And not only that, the grief that she carries for her children is so great. I am not alone, either. Stephanie is surrounded by friends that are equally as affected as I have been by her situation. Job's friends, I read, sat with Job. They didn't really say anything to him. What can you say when you sit with someone who is experiencing unspeakable pain? BUT, they sat with him. Their presence said to Job, "We are with you...You will not face this alone."
I'm so thankful for friendships. For my own, but also for the many that God has given to Stephanie. Such friendships prove that God gives us exactly what we need/who we need to weather any storm handed to us. In my life, God has given me the testimony of Jason's life and death. As I face my own difficult times, I will be able to look at Stephanie's situation and know that what she has lived through has been so hard, but she survived it. I am so proud of her. She is not only surviving, but she is thriving. Her worst fears have come true, yet she is living in PEACE.
"His grace is sufficient for me for His power is made perfect in weakness."
I love it when God speaks to me in a VERY real way, yet very unexpected way. I went to KinderTOT camp with Collin today (at his request). While I watched, I did a little bit of my Bible study which is Beth Moore's study of the fruit of the Spirit. The week's lesson is on peace. Could that be any more perfect for this week? Peace. When life is good. Peace. When life is hard. Peace. When life is downright unbearable.
In the very first day's study, I was led through Job. What a perfect example of a life at peace even in the most difficult of circumstances. Beth Moore even stated that surely God gave us Job so that, no matter what we are going through, we can look at Job and say, "He had it so much worse than me, and he made it."
I was moving through the study as I always do. Reading passages, filling in blanks, etc. when I stumbled across a few verses that I honestly do not ever remember reading.
In the second or third chapter, Job is covered in sores, he's lost all of his possessions and his children. I read across everyone's most familiar portion of Job. His wife tells him to "curse God and die". Then, I read through few verses about Job's friends. They hear of his situation and come to visit him. The scriptures say that they could barely recognize him from a distance. But, as they got closer, they tore their clothes and wept for him because his grief was so great.
This is how I feel most days. I just want to sit down and cry for my friend, because her grief is so great. And not only that, the grief that she carries for her children is so great. I am not alone, either. Stephanie is surrounded by friends that are equally as affected as I have been by her situation. Job's friends, I read, sat with Job. They didn't really say anything to him. What can you say when you sit with someone who is experiencing unspeakable pain? BUT, they sat with him. Their presence said to Job, "We are with you...You will not face this alone."
I'm so thankful for friendships. For my own, but also for the many that God has given to Stephanie. Such friendships prove that God gives us exactly what we need/who we need to weather any storm handed to us. In my life, God has given me the testimony of Jason's life and death. As I face my own difficult times, I will be able to look at Stephanie's situation and know that what she has lived through has been so hard, but she survived it. I am so proud of her. She is not only surviving, but she is thriving. Her worst fears have come true, yet she is living in PEACE.
"His grace is sufficient for me for His power is made perfect in weakness."
Monday, July 6
State Champions
As most of you know, we have spent our summer playing and watching baseball. Lots of baseball!
Caleb made the 6 year old all star team and practice began 2 days after the regular season ended. I was so happy that he made the team because he LOVES it. I know that some would absolutely hate for their summer to be dictated by baseball, BUT I know that he would not completely enjoy a summer without it.
At first glimpse, I was a little concerned about our little team. O.K., if I'm honest, I was A LOT worried about this team. They could hit for sure, but defensively, no one was really sure what to do with the ball....IF they even got the ball.
Clearly, I didn't give our coaches enough credit. The past two weekends, something clicked for our boys. Everyone seemed to figure out what to do in their new positions. Caleb played pitcher for his regular season team, but he was short stop for this team. He had a lot of new things to learn as well as becoming "o.k." with throwing his whole body in front of baseballs moving QUICKLY. And, once he figured it out, he started to really enjoy it.
This past weekend, we made the trip to Hernando for the Dizzy Dean State championship and WE WON!!!!! They played some really good teams, but they played so well. In fact, the last three games were called in the fourth or fifth inning because we were so far ahead.
They worked hard, played well and we even had some fun together. Collin joined us for this trip while Claire went to MeMe Janet's. He did so well that we are pretty sure he thinks he is 6 just like the big boys. I didn't lose him any, he whined very little and functioned perfectly in the heat with no naps. He joined Caleb's team at the end for high fives and the huddle.
Here are a few pictures from our weekend together...
If I can brag momentarily, Caleb "smoked" the ball to the back fence EVERY time he hit it this weekend. I was nervous for him while he played short stop, but I never worried when he got up to bat. And, if you ask him, he will not hesitate in telling you how many home runs he hit. We are still working on the modesty thing. ALL OF US!!
Caleb made the 6 year old all star team and practice began 2 days after the regular season ended. I was so happy that he made the team because he LOVES it. I know that some would absolutely hate for their summer to be dictated by baseball, BUT I know that he would not completely enjoy a summer without it.
At first glimpse, I was a little concerned about our little team. O.K., if I'm honest, I was A LOT worried about this team. They could hit for sure, but defensively, no one was really sure what to do with the ball....IF they even got the ball.
Clearly, I didn't give our coaches enough credit. The past two weekends, something clicked for our boys. Everyone seemed to figure out what to do in their new positions. Caleb played pitcher for his regular season team, but he was short stop for this team. He had a lot of new things to learn as well as becoming "o.k." with throwing his whole body in front of baseballs moving QUICKLY. And, once he figured it out, he started to really enjoy it.
This past weekend, we made the trip to Hernando for the Dizzy Dean State championship and WE WON!!!!! They played some really good teams, but they played so well. In fact, the last three games were called in the fourth or fifth inning because we were so far ahead.
They worked hard, played well and we even had some fun together. Collin joined us for this trip while Claire went to MeMe Janet's. He did so well that we are pretty sure he thinks he is 6 just like the big boys. I didn't lose him any, he whined very little and functioned perfectly in the heat with no naps. He joined Caleb's team at the end for high fives and the huddle.
Here are a few pictures from our weekend together...
If I can brag momentarily, Caleb "smoked" the ball to the back fence EVERY time he hit it this weekend. I was nervous for him while he played short stop, but I never worried when he got up to bat. And, if you ask him, he will not hesitate in telling you how many home runs he hit. We are still working on the modesty thing. ALL OF US!!
Friday, June 19
To Our Favorite Dad
Well, as hard as I tried to get it done on time, my Father's Day post to Scotty is LATE. Our weekend was more than hectic...it was chaotic. We had a baseball tournament for Caleb, a wedding for my cousin, and a couple of birthday parties in the mix as well.
Saturday morning, Claire and I had to be at a brunch, Scotty and the boys had to buy a birthday present and get to a birthday party (for like 45 minutes) and then get to the field for a series of ballgames. My sister, Claire and I were about 20 minutes late for our brunch, and I told Sassy that I have learned to embrace the fact that most of what I do is late these days.
It is during crazy weekends like this one that I am most thankful for Scotty. At 10:00 Friday night, after several games and a Rehearsal dinner, I gave him his agenda for Saturday morning. You know...get up, get the boys ready, buy a birthday present, get Collin to the birthday party and Caleb to his game (which he had to coach as well), Scotty gave no, well minimal, argument.
I have the privilege of staying home with our wonderful children, and many dads would consider that reason enough for me to "take care" of the household stuff. Not Scotty! He works during the day, and at 5:00, pulls in the driveway ready to begin his second shift. He doesn't even think of relaxing until all three children are sound asleep.
They LOVE to play with him. And, I LOVE to watch them play (except when the play takes place 5 minutes before bedtime...that happens often!)
So, from all of us, Scotty..."Happy Daddy's Day!" We love you THIIIIISSSS Much!
Saturday morning, Claire and I had to be at a brunch, Scotty and the boys had to buy a birthday present and get to a birthday party (for like 45 minutes) and then get to the field for a series of ballgames. My sister, Claire and I were about 20 minutes late for our brunch, and I told Sassy that I have learned to embrace the fact that most of what I do is late these days.
It is during crazy weekends like this one that I am most thankful for Scotty. At 10:00 Friday night, after several games and a Rehearsal dinner, I gave him his agenda for Saturday morning. You know...get up, get the boys ready, buy a birthday present, get Collin to the birthday party and Caleb to his game (which he had to coach as well), Scotty gave no, well minimal, argument.
I have the privilege of staying home with our wonderful children, and many dads would consider that reason enough for me to "take care" of the household stuff. Not Scotty! He works during the day, and at 5:00, pulls in the driveway ready to begin his second shift. He doesn't even think of relaxing until all three children are sound asleep.
They LOVE to play with him. And, I LOVE to watch them play (except when the play takes place 5 minutes before bedtime...that happens often!)
So, from all of us, Scotty..."Happy Daddy's Day!" We love you THIIIIISSSS Much!
Tuesday, June 9
Aah Relaxation...Sort Of
As I stated in an earlier blog, Scotty gave me a nice gift certificate to Aqua the Day Spa for Mother's Day this year. The gift was doubly nice considering Heather got the same thing. And, while a day at the spa alone is wonderful, a day at the spa with a great friend is just about perfect.
I began my day with an early run before Bible study. A group of women in our church is doing a Bible study on Tuesday mornings this summer. Today was our first meeting, and I was beyond excited about it. There are few things that I enjoy more than women's Bible study.
Claire left the church with a friend, and I took the boys to another friend. Leaving Clinton, I breathed a sigh of relief and was off for some relaxation.
Heather (who is clearly NOT as spriritual as I am :) met me at Chili's because she spent the morning shopping out North. (Just in case anyone is wondering...I'm totally kidding about the spiritual part.) Our time together was full of good food and lots of talking. We generally talk 90 to nothing when we are together without kids. We spend a good bit of time together, but very little of it is without kids. So, we have LOTS to say when we get the chance.
Halfway through lunch, I get a call from my friend who has the boys. Before she says a word, I can hear Caleb SCREAMING. She took them swimming. Caleb was running down the diving board and slipped off. I'll spare all of the tiny details. Basically, he scraped up his foot as he slipped off, but his chest down to his tummy took the brunt of the fall. He's pretty scratched up. There was some bleeding going on which was the cause for all of the screaming. Caleb REALLY hates blood. A paper cut that produces the tiniest bit of blood will having him screaming as if he's lost a limb.
I received two more calls. The first was to say that he was going to be o.k. even though he had not stopped fussing yet. About ten minutes later, I got the call that he was up running and playing tennis in the pool again.
En route from Chili's to the Spa, I had a minor melt down. Caleb has had a rough couple of days with a few other accidents and a bad night at baseball practice. When I received the final call that he was going to be fine, emotion flooded over me. I'm not sure why that brief episode had me so flustered, but it did. And, the thought that kept rushing over me was that sometimes the emotional heaviness that comes with being a Mom is too much...much too much.
I guess only a Mom would worry about how her six year old is coping with consecutive catastrophes causing physical harm to his body, or if one bad night at baseball practice would damage his sense of confidence for life. I'm sure I'm not in the minority of Moms that would let my mind drift, even for a second, to what could have happened in the diving board incident. Deep breath in, deep breath out...Sometimes, it's all just too much!
And, at the same time, it's absolutely wonderful! I can't think of anything I would rather have consume my thoughts and emotions for the most part of every day than the 3 little people taking up residence there now. They are a blessing.
And, while my day at the spa might not have been the day of relaxation that I had originally planned, my toes are still BEAUTIFUL!
Thanks, Scotty, for three beautiful children AND my day of pampering.
I began my day with an early run before Bible study. A group of women in our church is doing a Bible study on Tuesday mornings this summer. Today was our first meeting, and I was beyond excited about it. There are few things that I enjoy more than women's Bible study.
Claire left the church with a friend, and I took the boys to another friend. Leaving Clinton, I breathed a sigh of relief and was off for some relaxation.
Heather (who is clearly NOT as spriritual as I am :) met me at Chili's because she spent the morning shopping out North. (Just in case anyone is wondering...I'm totally kidding about the spiritual part.) Our time together was full of good food and lots of talking. We generally talk 90 to nothing when we are together without kids. We spend a good bit of time together, but very little of it is without kids. So, we have LOTS to say when we get the chance.
Halfway through lunch, I get a call from my friend who has the boys. Before she says a word, I can hear Caleb SCREAMING. She took them swimming. Caleb was running down the diving board and slipped off. I'll spare all of the tiny details. Basically, he scraped up his foot as he slipped off, but his chest down to his tummy took the brunt of the fall. He's pretty scratched up. There was some bleeding going on which was the cause for all of the screaming. Caleb REALLY hates blood. A paper cut that produces the tiniest bit of blood will having him screaming as if he's lost a limb.
I received two more calls. The first was to say that he was going to be o.k. even though he had not stopped fussing yet. About ten minutes later, I got the call that he was up running and playing tennis in the pool again.
En route from Chili's to the Spa, I had a minor melt down. Caleb has had a rough couple of days with a few other accidents and a bad night at baseball practice. When I received the final call that he was going to be fine, emotion flooded over me. I'm not sure why that brief episode had me so flustered, but it did. And, the thought that kept rushing over me was that sometimes the emotional heaviness that comes with being a Mom is too much...much too much.
I guess only a Mom would worry about how her six year old is coping with consecutive catastrophes causing physical harm to his body, or if one bad night at baseball practice would damage his sense of confidence for life. I'm sure I'm not in the minority of Moms that would let my mind drift, even for a second, to what could have happened in the diving board incident. Deep breath in, deep breath out...Sometimes, it's all just too much!
And, at the same time, it's absolutely wonderful! I can't think of anything I would rather have consume my thoughts and emotions for the most part of every day than the 3 little people taking up residence there now. They are a blessing.
And, while my day at the spa might not have been the day of relaxation that I had originally planned, my toes are still BEAUTIFUL!
Thanks, Scotty, for three beautiful children AND my day of pampering.
Tuesday, May 26
It's SUMMERTIME!!!
We are one week into summer and having a blast.
The regular baseball season is coming to an end, and it just doesn't seem right that it ends as summer begins. I equate baseball with summer.
And, if you've been around me lately, you know that we have been ANXIOUSLY waiting for the pool to open. I thought it would open on Saturday and made the huge mistake of telling Collin. Well, it didn't open Saturday. It opened Memorial Day.
Collin took it very well, but he did insist on putting his swimsuit on right after church on Sunday. He announced that he would keep it on until the pool opened. So, he played in it on Sunday, slept in it Sunday night and wore it right up until 10:00 when we left for the pool. They were all beyond excited.
Here are some pictures of us in our "summer home". This is where we have spent the summer for the past 5 years. It's so funny to watch some of the people at the Y watch us. Many of them were there when I had only Caleb. Then, we added baby Collin. They actually watched me "grow" with Claire (the only pregnancy in which I needed a maternity bathing suit). Now, I'm sure they are wondering when the next one is coming. :) We love this place.
So, welcome Summer. We've been waiting on you for so long!
The regular baseball season is coming to an end, and it just doesn't seem right that it ends as summer begins. I equate baseball with summer.
And, if you've been around me lately, you know that we have been ANXIOUSLY waiting for the pool to open. I thought it would open on Saturday and made the huge mistake of telling Collin. Well, it didn't open Saturday. It opened Memorial Day.
Collin took it very well, but he did insist on putting his swimsuit on right after church on Sunday. He announced that he would keep it on until the pool opened. So, he played in it on Sunday, slept in it Sunday night and wore it right up until 10:00 when we left for the pool. They were all beyond excited.
Here are some pictures of us in our "summer home". This is where we have spent the summer for the past 5 years. It's so funny to watch some of the people at the Y watch us. Many of them were there when I had only Caleb. Then, we added baby Collin. They actually watched me "grow" with Claire (the only pregnancy in which I needed a maternity bathing suit). Now, I'm sure they are wondering when the next one is coming. :) We love this place.
So, welcome Summer. We've been waiting on you for so long!
Thursday, May 14
The Cheering Tunnel
It seems to be feast or famine with me and this blog. No posts for weeks; and, now, back to back blogging.
I just had to write about Collin's last day of preschool. They went today until 11:30 even though parties and everything were yesterday.
Again, Collin saw fit to dress for the occasion...kind of. He went to school in full soccer gear -- jersey, shorts, socks and shin guards. Yesterday, he decided that he needed to be a soccer player on his last day of school, but I wish I could figure out how he comes to these conclusions. I mean how does he determine if it is a Batman day or Darth Vader day, Indian day or Cowboy day, soccer player or...? Well, you get my point.
His teachers love him and I fully enjoy watching their expressions as they open the car door each morning to see what he will look like.
But, my purpose in writing is that I had a VERY emotional moment when I picked him up. I was a few cars back and noticed that one of the teachers what doing sort of a cheer as each child came down the ramp to his/her car. But, as I got closer I realized that all 6 teachers had formed sort of a cheering tunnel like you see parents make at the end of soccer games. As the child was called to come to the car, he ran through the tunnel of cheering teachers -- all smiles of course.
I was not expecting that AT ALL, and I couldn't get a grip. It hit me that it really doesn't seem that long ago that Caleb ended his first year of preschool and now he's...practically grown! But, their actions also spoke a profound message to me.
We don't celebrate accomplishments enough!!!
While I realized that this was the end of Collin's first year of preschool, I was moving in auto pilot. We were going to high five, get his favorite lunch and talk about our summer together. But, his teachers made me stop in my tracks and realize that a celebration was truly in order.
It would be nice if life gave us a cheering tunnel for all of our accomplishments -- big or small. We start out that way as babies. We got applause for sitting, standing, walking, talking, etc. Then, somewhere along the way, we begin to expect accomplishment from ourselves and those around us. So, we take them for granted and move on.
Not so at First Baptist today. Those children were treated like super stars. And, that's exactly what they are.
Now, I just wonder if Collin was given a "heads up". Maybe THAT is why he chose to be a soccer player today. He was certainly the only one appropriately dressed to run through a cheering tunnel.
I just had to write about Collin's last day of preschool. They went today until 11:30 even though parties and everything were yesterday.
Again, Collin saw fit to dress for the occasion...kind of. He went to school in full soccer gear -- jersey, shorts, socks and shin guards. Yesterday, he decided that he needed to be a soccer player on his last day of school, but I wish I could figure out how he comes to these conclusions. I mean how does he determine if it is a Batman day or Darth Vader day, Indian day or Cowboy day, soccer player or...? Well, you get my point.
His teachers love him and I fully enjoy watching their expressions as they open the car door each morning to see what he will look like.
But, my purpose in writing is that I had a VERY emotional moment when I picked him up. I was a few cars back and noticed that one of the teachers what doing sort of a cheer as each child came down the ramp to his/her car. But, as I got closer I realized that all 6 teachers had formed sort of a cheering tunnel like you see parents make at the end of soccer games. As the child was called to come to the car, he ran through the tunnel of cheering teachers -- all smiles of course.
I was not expecting that AT ALL, and I couldn't get a grip. It hit me that it really doesn't seem that long ago that Caleb ended his first year of preschool and now he's...practically grown! But, their actions also spoke a profound message to me.
We don't celebrate accomplishments enough!!!
While I realized that this was the end of Collin's first year of preschool, I was moving in auto pilot. We were going to high five, get his favorite lunch and talk about our summer together. But, his teachers made me stop in my tracks and realize that a celebration was truly in order.
It would be nice if life gave us a cheering tunnel for all of our accomplishments -- big or small. We start out that way as babies. We got applause for sitting, standing, walking, talking, etc. Then, somewhere along the way, we begin to expect accomplishment from ourselves and those around us. So, we take them for granted and move on.
Not so at First Baptist today. Those children were treated like super stars. And, that's exactly what they are.
Now, I just wonder if Collin was given a "heads up". Maybe THAT is why he chose to be a soccer player today. He was certainly the only one appropriately dressed to run through a cheering tunnel.
Wednesday, May 13
Writer's Block
Wow. I can't seem to get motivated to update this blog. Maybe it is because there is just SO MUCH I could write about. I've gotten so far behind that I don't know where to start.
Since my last post...
-Collin has finished his first year of preschool. He LOVED his school, his teachers, and his friends. And, he is very ready for summer. Today was the day for their end of the year party. Collin was up and dressed at 6:10 in his "party clothes" which were brown shorts, socks & tennis shoes AND his Indian Pow Wow shirt (the shirt made by his teacher for their pow wow at Thanksgiving). The funny thing is that no one at his school was shocked. They are all very familiar with Collin coming to school in odd outfits. Most recently...white ninja, cowboy, Indian, and Batman -- just to name a few.
-Claire has an ear infection AGAIN! I'm pretty sure the last one never cleared up, and that is frustrating to me. As we enter into the long awaited summer swim time, I do not want to be faced with ear issues. She is saying lots of new words and has gotten really good at throwing herself out in the floor when things don't go her way. Since she is the third child, that is often.
-Caleb is one week shy of finishing Kindergarten. I CAN'T believe it. The year has flown by, but he has grown up so much during it. His teacher sent me his reading level yesterday. I am proud to say that he is ALMOST reading at the level they like for first graders to be reading by the end of the year. Amazing! He is also playing baseball -- which he LOVES. His little team is undefeated which he announces to everyone. Only when he says it, he says..."We don't ever lose." Humility. That's his best quality. But, coming from the mother who just announced her son's reading level online, I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
-I am, well, surviving. As school comes to an end, I have gotten a little overwhelmed thinking about the days when all three will be in school. I feel as though I barely survived one in school and one in preschool. But, it has all been so fun -- at least what I remember. I'm still running some with Scotty. And, I've had some interesting new opportunities in my group fitness world. More to come on that later. I had a WONDERFUL Mother's Day, complete with a gift card to Aqua the Day Spa. :)
-Finally, Scotty is now the Minister to Children at First Baptist Church. It still seems unreal. The process leading to this has been interesting. I won't type it all here. But, last year, we were amazed to find that we actually "fit" at First Baptist Clinton as members. Those of you that know our church struggles know what I am talking about. And, now, this is the very church that God has chosen to be Scotty's first full time ministry position. His ways are not our ways, yet we couldn't be happier with the path He has placed us in.
Thanks to all of you who have let me know you miss my posts. I have missed writing. But, during this time that I took to update, Claire has written all over her hands and legs, Collin has taken off the clothes that I put him in for church and changed...3 times, and Caleb has been so very quiet that I am really scared to go downstairs and see what he has been up to.
Time for a Spa Day!!!
Since my last post...
-Collin has finished his first year of preschool. He LOVED his school, his teachers, and his friends. And, he is very ready for summer. Today was the day for their end of the year party. Collin was up and dressed at 6:10 in his "party clothes" which were brown shorts, socks & tennis shoes AND his Indian Pow Wow shirt (the shirt made by his teacher for their pow wow at Thanksgiving). The funny thing is that no one at his school was shocked. They are all very familiar with Collin coming to school in odd outfits. Most recently...white ninja, cowboy, Indian, and Batman -- just to name a few.
-Claire has an ear infection AGAIN! I'm pretty sure the last one never cleared up, and that is frustrating to me. As we enter into the long awaited summer swim time, I do not want to be faced with ear issues. She is saying lots of new words and has gotten really good at throwing herself out in the floor when things don't go her way. Since she is the third child, that is often.
-Caleb is one week shy of finishing Kindergarten. I CAN'T believe it. The year has flown by, but he has grown up so much during it. His teacher sent me his reading level yesterday. I am proud to say that he is ALMOST reading at the level they like for first graders to be reading by the end of the year. Amazing! He is also playing baseball -- which he LOVES. His little team is undefeated which he announces to everyone. Only when he says it, he says..."We don't ever lose." Humility. That's his best quality. But, coming from the mother who just announced her son's reading level online, I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
-I am, well, surviving. As school comes to an end, I have gotten a little overwhelmed thinking about the days when all three will be in school. I feel as though I barely survived one in school and one in preschool. But, it has all been so fun -- at least what I remember. I'm still running some with Scotty. And, I've had some interesting new opportunities in my group fitness world. More to come on that later. I had a WONDERFUL Mother's Day, complete with a gift card to Aqua the Day Spa. :)
-Finally, Scotty is now the Minister to Children at First Baptist Church. It still seems unreal. The process leading to this has been interesting. I won't type it all here. But, last year, we were amazed to find that we actually "fit" at First Baptist Clinton as members. Those of you that know our church struggles know what I am talking about. And, now, this is the very church that God has chosen to be Scotty's first full time ministry position. His ways are not our ways, yet we couldn't be happier with the path He has placed us in.
Thanks to all of you who have let me know you miss my posts. I have missed writing. But, during this time that I took to update, Claire has written all over her hands and legs, Collin has taken off the clothes that I put him in for church and changed...3 times, and Caleb has been so very quiet that I am really scared to go downstairs and see what he has been up to.
Time for a Spa Day!!!
Monday, April 27
Another Attempt at Demolishing Fear
Fourteen years ago--when Scotty and I started dating--I had BIG dreams that he would make me a runner. Running comes easily for Scotty, and he was a part of high school and college cross country teams. This dream never came true for several reasons. Scotty is much too fast to run with me, and I never really had the confidence to attempt to keep up.
On Friday, we were both headed out for a run. I was going to run my little 3 mile trek. Scotty was planning to run 5. On the way down the driveway, he invited me to go the whole 5 miles with him.
Honestly, I was very hesitant. I like to stay close to home...just in case I feel as though I can't/don't want to finish my run. Scotty's five miles takes him 2.5 miles away from our house only to turn around and run the same mileage back. It seemed a little risky for my first attempt. But, he brought up the fact that he does come to my spinning class. So, truly, this was only fair.
Well, I made it!!! Scotty ran much slower than he would have, and he circled back a couple of times when I REALLY lagged behind. I can't say that it wasn't painful. But, it wasn't nearly as bad as I had expected. I think I might even try it again one day. Maybe!?!
I am so bad about making things SEEM much worse than they really are. When I do that, sometimes the fear of the unknown can almost paralyze me. I've written before about me fear to get certified in group exercise. I really didn't think I would ever be able to do it. However, since getting that certification, I have achieved many exercise goals that seemed impossible only a year ago.
So, I'm still not a "runner", but I'm not afraid of running anymore. I'd love to say that I will not let fear take over in life's circumstances again. That's probably not going to happen. But, this run will definitely serve to remind me that "all things are possible", and fear should never dictate my decisions.
On Friday, we were both headed out for a run. I was going to run my little 3 mile trek. Scotty was planning to run 5. On the way down the driveway, he invited me to go the whole 5 miles with him.
Honestly, I was very hesitant. I like to stay close to home...just in case I feel as though I can't/don't want to finish my run. Scotty's five miles takes him 2.5 miles away from our house only to turn around and run the same mileage back. It seemed a little risky for my first attempt. But, he brought up the fact that he does come to my spinning class. So, truly, this was only fair.
Well, I made it!!! Scotty ran much slower than he would have, and he circled back a couple of times when I REALLY lagged behind. I can't say that it wasn't painful. But, it wasn't nearly as bad as I had expected. I think I might even try it again one day. Maybe!?!
I am so bad about making things SEEM much worse than they really are. When I do that, sometimes the fear of the unknown can almost paralyze me. I've written before about me fear to get certified in group exercise. I really didn't think I would ever be able to do it. However, since getting that certification, I have achieved many exercise goals that seemed impossible only a year ago.
So, I'm still not a "runner", but I'm not afraid of running anymore. I'd love to say that I will not let fear take over in life's circumstances again. That's probably not going to happen. But, this run will definitely serve to remind me that "all things are possible", and fear should never dictate my decisions.
Wednesday, April 22
Pardon Me While I Ramble
This post is simply to let anyone interested in the "goings-on" of the Rogers' household know that we are indeed still alive. I just realized that it has been over a week since I last posted.
I can't think of ANYTHING interesting that I could share with you; however, that doesn't mean that we have been without activity. In fact, I think it means that we have been moving at such a rapid pace that I can't even keep up with all that we are doing.
It seems as though everyone is beyond busy these days. I think it is just that season. School is coming to an end and sports have begun. All of the organizations are trying to get all of their meetings in before the year ends.
We are so very ready for the summer. I have missed two fabulous photo opportunities over the past couple of days. These pictures would have made perfect pictures for a post about getting ready for summer. So, use your imaginations, please.
The first "picture" is of Collin. He CAN NOT wait for the pool to open for the summer. He talks about it all of the time. Earlier in the week, he drug out the basket with all of the swimsuits, put one on and ran some bath water. He had some pretend play time in the bathtub, and he certainly sounded like he was in a giant swimming pool. Wouldn't that picture have been too cute?
This morning, Claire found a pair of goggles. She insisted that I put them on and she walked around the house in them FOREVER. It was hilarious. She kept running into things, because they weren't positioned just right. But, she did have the fat lip due to the goggles pressing against her mouth. At one point, she wanted them pushed up on her head like sunglasses. As I stated, she was in them FOREVER; but, I was in house cleaning mode. So, it didn't cross my mind that a picture might be a good idea until she had thrown the goggles down.
I've rambled long enough. Maybe one day this week, I can remember to take the camera to the ball field and get some real pictures of Caleb playing baseball. He loves it so much. And, after a pretty pitiful year last year, they haven't lost a game yet. For my competitive, first child (and his Mom)...this is a whole lot more fun.
I can't think of ANYTHING interesting that I could share with you; however, that doesn't mean that we have been without activity. In fact, I think it means that we have been moving at such a rapid pace that I can't even keep up with all that we are doing.
It seems as though everyone is beyond busy these days. I think it is just that season. School is coming to an end and sports have begun. All of the organizations are trying to get all of their meetings in before the year ends.
We are so very ready for the summer. I have missed two fabulous photo opportunities over the past couple of days. These pictures would have made perfect pictures for a post about getting ready for summer. So, use your imaginations, please.
The first "picture" is of Collin. He CAN NOT wait for the pool to open for the summer. He talks about it all of the time. Earlier in the week, he drug out the basket with all of the swimsuits, put one on and ran some bath water. He had some pretend play time in the bathtub, and he certainly sounded like he was in a giant swimming pool. Wouldn't that picture have been too cute?
This morning, Claire found a pair of goggles. She insisted that I put them on and she walked around the house in them FOREVER. It was hilarious. She kept running into things, because they weren't positioned just right. But, she did have the fat lip due to the goggles pressing against her mouth. At one point, she wanted them pushed up on her head like sunglasses. As I stated, she was in them FOREVER; but, I was in house cleaning mode. So, it didn't cross my mind that a picture might be a good idea until she had thrown the goggles down.
I've rambled long enough. Maybe one day this week, I can remember to take the camera to the ball field and get some real pictures of Caleb playing baseball. He loves it so much. And, after a pretty pitiful year last year, they haven't lost a game yet. For my competitive, first child (and his Mom)...this is a whole lot more fun.
Monday, April 13
IMPOSSIBLE!
I had to wake Claire from a mid-morning nap to get Collin from preschool today.
This is what I found...
It reminded me of a similar picture. But, it's very hard for me to believe that almost 2 years ago, this picture was taken.
Wow. Time flies!
This is what I found...
It reminded me of a similar picture. But, it's very hard for me to believe that almost 2 years ago, this picture was taken.
Wow. Time flies!
Friday, April 10
A Beautiful Trait
Yesterday, I attended an Easter egg hunt at Collin's school. Along with other Moms, I got there early to hide the eggs at a local park. Then, the kids walked over, hunted their eggs, played a little and ate snack.
They had so much fun, and I really enjoyed watching them. I realized as I was watching how much I LOVE school. I don't know if I just have more than my share of happy, school memories, or if it just comes with my calling as a teacher. Whatever the case, I love school and both boys are blessed with a great one this year.
The kids were playing and the parents and teachers were standing around watching and visiting. One of Collin's teachers (who is also a friend of mine) came over to brag on Collin a little bit. And, I admit, I do love to listen to someone brag on one of my children.
She went on and on about what a "cool" kid he is. She has no idea that she chose one of the few adjectives that he would use to describe himself. He loves that word.
But, then she began to talk about how sweet he is. I laughed (so relieved, really) and she said, "He is the friend to the friendless." Apparently, that is a phrase she uses often to describe him, because he demonstrates kindness to those children without a friend on occasion.
Now, I did not plan to post about this conversation as we were having it, but I haven't been able to get it off of my mind. What a great trait!
So, as I said in his birthday post, I aspire to be a little bit more like Collin...the friend to the friendless.
AND, HAPPY EASTER FROM THE ROGERS!!!
They had so much fun, and I really enjoyed watching them. I realized as I was watching how much I LOVE school. I don't know if I just have more than my share of happy, school memories, or if it just comes with my calling as a teacher. Whatever the case, I love school and both boys are blessed with a great one this year.
The kids were playing and the parents and teachers were standing around watching and visiting. One of Collin's teachers (who is also a friend of mine) came over to brag on Collin a little bit. And, I admit, I do love to listen to someone brag on one of my children.
She went on and on about what a "cool" kid he is. She has no idea that she chose one of the few adjectives that he would use to describe himself. He loves that word.
But, then she began to talk about how sweet he is. I laughed (so relieved, really) and she said, "He is the friend to the friendless." Apparently, that is a phrase she uses often to describe him, because he demonstrates kindness to those children without a friend on occasion.
Now, I did not plan to post about this conversation as we were having it, but I haven't been able to get it off of my mind. What a great trait!
So, as I said in his birthday post, I aspire to be a little bit more like Collin...the friend to the friendless.
AND, HAPPY EASTER FROM THE ROGERS!!!
Monday, April 6
Truth from a Six Year Old
I spent this past weekend in New Orleans with my mom, my sister and Beth Moore. My birthday was Saturday, and I can't think of a better way to spend it.
We learned so much this weekend. If you've ever heard Beth speak live, then you know that we were also inspired. Her message was powerful, and we came away with many jewels.
She delivered 7 points from the fifth chapter of 1 Thessalonians. I won't post them all. But, the gist of the message was that we might be found "holy" through "wholeness" in Him. We laughed A LOT and cried some, too. Beth just has a gift with words and the delivery of them.
Friday night she spent most of our time talking about the importance of community. Her point? We can't be whole without others. This point was not foreign to me. I love community. I treasure my relationships with others. And, I know that we were made for such relationships. We were made in His image, and HE is a relational God.
Saturday, Beth talked about so many different things. But, at one point, she said that many of us need to COME BACK to the "land of the living". We can laugh at that choice of wording. We can nod knowing that it is true. However, when I stop and think about how many people (some who you walk and talk with daily) have "checked out" of meaningful life due to defeat in some area, I am completely saddened.
We were made for LIFE.
This morning, we were driving to school. It was a typical Monday morning. We slept a little later, because Sundays are long and hard. Then, I chased both boys around barking out orders, and they did not want to get ready for school. At 7:20, I put Claire in the car and sent Caleb to his seat. Honestly, I was feeling pretty proud that we were going to be on time despite the Monday issues.
I walked back inside to gather the last things and point Collin towards the car, and he was at the toilet pulling down his pants. Of course, it was #2.
With all hope of getting to Clinton Park BEFORE the tardy bell gone, we set out. Claire has a wonderful DVD called Ms. Patty Cake and the Praise Parade. (I would be happy to share more about these DVDs, because we love them.) About halfway to school, Ms. Patty Cake was singing a song about Jesus' death. The boys know all of the words and sing with her all the way to school.
But, today, Collin stopped and said, "WHY did He die?"
I was SO not in the mood for theology discussions, but this is the kind of question that you just can't pass up. So, I'm trying to muster up an easy yet true answer. There was no need. Caleb yelled from the back seat,
"SO WE COULD LIVE!!!"
Oh my goodness, I'm crying as I type. I simply nodded. Exactly right!
Are you living? If not, do whatever it takes to "come back to the land of the living". He died so that we could do exactly that.
I know you think it can't get any better, BUT....
We were the last car to unload before the tardy bell! Maybe Mondays aren't so bad after all.
We learned so much this weekend. If you've ever heard Beth speak live, then you know that we were also inspired. Her message was powerful, and we came away with many jewels.
She delivered 7 points from the fifth chapter of 1 Thessalonians. I won't post them all. But, the gist of the message was that we might be found "holy" through "wholeness" in Him. We laughed A LOT and cried some, too. Beth just has a gift with words and the delivery of them.
Friday night she spent most of our time talking about the importance of community. Her point? We can't be whole without others. This point was not foreign to me. I love community. I treasure my relationships with others. And, I know that we were made for such relationships. We were made in His image, and HE is a relational God.
Saturday, Beth talked about so many different things. But, at one point, she said that many of us need to COME BACK to the "land of the living". We can laugh at that choice of wording. We can nod knowing that it is true. However, when I stop and think about how many people (some who you walk and talk with daily) have "checked out" of meaningful life due to defeat in some area, I am completely saddened.
We were made for LIFE.
This morning, we were driving to school. It was a typical Monday morning. We slept a little later, because Sundays are long and hard. Then, I chased both boys around barking out orders, and they did not want to get ready for school. At 7:20, I put Claire in the car and sent Caleb to his seat. Honestly, I was feeling pretty proud that we were going to be on time despite the Monday issues.
I walked back inside to gather the last things and point Collin towards the car, and he was at the toilet pulling down his pants. Of course, it was #2.
With all hope of getting to Clinton Park BEFORE the tardy bell gone, we set out. Claire has a wonderful DVD called Ms. Patty Cake and the Praise Parade. (I would be happy to share more about these DVDs, because we love them.) About halfway to school, Ms. Patty Cake was singing a song about Jesus' death. The boys know all of the words and sing with her all the way to school.
But, today, Collin stopped and said, "WHY did He die?"
I was SO not in the mood for theology discussions, but this is the kind of question that you just can't pass up. So, I'm trying to muster up an easy yet true answer. There was no need. Caleb yelled from the back seat,
"SO WE COULD LIVE!!!"
Oh my goodness, I'm crying as I type. I simply nodded. Exactly right!
Are you living? If not, do whatever it takes to "come back to the land of the living". He died so that we could do exactly that.
I know you think it can't get any better, BUT....
We were the last car to unload before the tardy bell! Maybe Mondays aren't so bad after all.
Wednesday, April 1
Oh, How Fun!
Caleb and Collin begged all last week for me to let them play in the mud. It has rained so much, and we have pretty much been surrounded by mud.
If you know me AT ALL, you know exactly how I answered their plea for mud fun. "Absolutely not! Too messy!"
Don't get me wrong, playing in the mud sounded fun to me as well, but I just couldn't get past the cleaning up part.
Well, on Mondays, I leave the house as soon as Scotty gets home at 5:00 to teach a step class. The boys bombarded Scotty in the driveway to ask if they could get in the mud. Here's a look at his answer...
Can you tell which of my children might be just a little bit more like me when it comes to getting dirty? Hint -- it's not the girl. He's the one with VERY LITTLE mud touching ANY skin. Bless his heart, he got most of my quirky habits.
But, they ALL had a BLAST!
And, when I got home at 6:45, all three were in pjs, and the washing machine was going. Fun for all, and I avoided the clean up. You rock, Daddy!!!
Now, I'm ready to say, "goodbye" to the mud and enjoy some sunny, Spring days.
If you know me AT ALL, you know exactly how I answered their plea for mud fun. "Absolutely not! Too messy!"
Don't get me wrong, playing in the mud sounded fun to me as well, but I just couldn't get past the cleaning up part.
Well, on Mondays, I leave the house as soon as Scotty gets home at 5:00 to teach a step class. The boys bombarded Scotty in the driveway to ask if they could get in the mud. Here's a look at his answer...
Can you tell which of my children might be just a little bit more like me when it comes to getting dirty? Hint -- it's not the girl. He's the one with VERY LITTLE mud touching ANY skin. Bless his heart, he got most of my quirky habits.
But, they ALL had a BLAST!
And, when I got home at 6:45, all three were in pjs, and the washing machine was going. Fun for all, and I avoided the clean up. You rock, Daddy!!!
Now, I'm ready to say, "goodbye" to the mud and enjoy some sunny, Spring days.
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