This plan came to me at about 3 a.m. the other morning. No matter how hard I try, I can't shake the idea. Maybe I should up the dose on my happy pills, or take a nap, but here is the plan:
I will strip off all my clothes and light my hair on fire. Then I will run around my neighborhood. Hopefully this will be insane enough to secure a bed on the psych ward of the local hospital. While there, I can sleep without hourly interruptions, my meals will be cooked for me, and I may even score some good drugs.
It sounds like a perfect plan, but I hear from a nurse that psych is full. It usually is, and I wonder how many are sleep deprived moms?
Showing posts with label family life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label family life. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
How to tell if you are having a bad day
You may be having a bad day, if on the way out the door, your 2 year old let's the expensive indoor cat out. And as you run down the stairs in your high heels you yell "dammit" loud enough for the neighbors to hear.
You may be having a bad day, if once outside, you have to chase said 2 year old down the driveway and snatch him out of the road while yelling to your daughter, "we need to catch the grey piece of #@$%"
You may be having a bad day, if you get to the supermarket and realize that you forgot to pack your daughter's lunch, so the $1.50 in cash you scrounged up won't be sufficient to purchase the hard candy (cough drops not being allowed at school) and a lunchable.
You may be having a bad day, if while walking through the supermarket, you look at the woman who is approximately your age, maybe a bit older, calmly shopping in her name brand workout gear (the gym is just next door) and want to strangle the life out of her for her child free, healthy, and peaceful morning.
I'm not an expert, but if those things happen, you may be having a bad day!
You may be having a bad day, if once outside, you have to chase said 2 year old down the driveway and snatch him out of the road while yelling to your daughter, "we need to catch the grey piece of #@$%"
You may be having a bad day, if you get to the supermarket and realize that you forgot to pack your daughter's lunch, so the $1.50 in cash you scrounged up won't be sufficient to purchase the hard candy (cough drops not being allowed at school) and a lunchable.
You may be having a bad day, if while walking through the supermarket, you look at the woman who is approximately your age, maybe a bit older, calmly shopping in her name brand workout gear (the gym is just next door) and want to strangle the life out of her for her child free, healthy, and peaceful morning.
I'm not an expert, but if those things happen, you may be having a bad day!
Labels:
cats,
family life,
kids,
me
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Life Goes On
We've been staying busy, busy!
Kaia has looked forward to having the opportunity to work in the school kitchen since the start of the school year. You have to be in 3rd grade before you can do the work and she really wanted to do it. She's now on her 2nd week of kitchen duty and loving it. I'm loving it too! She gets free school lunch when she works. School lunches cost me $2.25, and the average home lunch I pack her is probably about $1.00. Either way, I'm saving time and money, and she's learning how to be responsible!
The Bobos turned 2 this weekend. And when they do something, they like to go all out. So to celebrate turning 2, they started off their birthday by breaking our tv. Our tv that was $900 plus tax and a warranty. And as it always works, the warranty doesn't cover 2 year old twins throwing stuff at the screen. They had an enjoyable party and are having a great time playing with all their new cars.
I'm busy trying to get Morgan's curriculum ordered so that we can get him on track with kindergarten. Of course, what should be easy seems like a daunting task to me. Once we have the curriculum though, I know it will all go well, he's such a smart kid.
It's definitely Fall here, and the days seem to just fly by in their busyness.
Kaia has looked forward to having the opportunity to work in the school kitchen since the start of the school year. You have to be in 3rd grade before you can do the work and she really wanted to do it. She's now on her 2nd week of kitchen duty and loving it. I'm loving it too! She gets free school lunch when she works. School lunches cost me $2.25, and the average home lunch I pack her is probably about $1.00. Either way, I'm saving time and money, and she's learning how to be responsible!
The Bobos turned 2 this weekend. And when they do something, they like to go all out. So to celebrate turning 2, they started off their birthday by breaking our tv. Our tv that was $900 plus tax and a warranty. And as it always works, the warranty doesn't cover 2 year old twins throwing stuff at the screen. They had an enjoyable party and are having a great time playing with all their new cars.
I'm busy trying to get Morgan's curriculum ordered so that we can get him on track with kindergarten. Of course, what should be easy seems like a daunting task to me. Once we have the curriculum though, I know it will all go well, he's such a smart kid.
It's definitely Fall here, and the days seem to just fly by in their busyness.
Labels:
celebrations,
family life
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Not in my house!
When I first realized we had a flea infestation, and the doctor confirmed the Bobos were covered in flea bites, I was sure that I was the worst housekeeper and mother ever. I knew they had come in on our cat Callie before we had her put down. I remember clearly the time she came in and was so filthy, something very unlike her, and one of the first signs that it was time to consider euthanasia. But to have them in our home bad enough that the boys were bit all over, I had to have won some sort of award for my inadequacies.
Then, when I posted such thoughts on Facebook, my eyes were opened. So many people came forward telling me about their battle with fleas. So many, that I realized, this isn't something to feel bad about or ashamed of, it is something that many people deal with. Many people deal with, and few discuss. That's where I come in. I discuss it. So, let it be known, we have fleas in our home. I'm still fighting them. It's not an easy battle. The doctor recommended using a bug bomb. I have problems with that. Number 1, I don't like the idea of spreading poison all over the house. Number 2, everyone I've talked to, and everything I've read says that the bomb doesn't do it. You still have a ton more work. So I researched our options.
I researched and opted to spot treat all the remaining cats. I also bought pesticide for the carpets, but they can only be used in limited rooms, at limited times because we have 4 kids and 4 cats. So I treated the Bobos room, as it is one of the worst, and have been using Borax on the rest of the carpets and vacuuming often. We will win our battle, and I won't be ashamed that they are living in my house. The little bastards will die!
I have to wonder though, how many things do many of us live with, and hide for fear of being looked down on?
Then, when I posted such thoughts on Facebook, my eyes were opened. So many people came forward telling me about their battle with fleas. So many, that I realized, this isn't something to feel bad about or ashamed of, it is something that many people deal with. Many people deal with, and few discuss. That's where I come in. I discuss it. So, let it be known, we have fleas in our home. I'm still fighting them. It's not an easy battle. The doctor recommended using a bug bomb. I have problems with that. Number 1, I don't like the idea of spreading poison all over the house. Number 2, everyone I've talked to, and everything I've read says that the bomb doesn't do it. You still have a ton more work. So I researched our options.
I researched and opted to spot treat all the remaining cats. I also bought pesticide for the carpets, but they can only be used in limited rooms, at limited times because we have 4 kids and 4 cats. So I treated the Bobos room, as it is one of the worst, and have been using Borax on the rest of the carpets and vacuuming often. We will win our battle, and I won't be ashamed that they are living in my house. The little bastards will die!
I have to wonder though, how many things do many of us live with, and hide for fear of being looked down on?
Labels:
cleaning,
family life
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
A Memory Saved
At the end of Despicable Me, the Minions line up to get a goodnight kiss from Gru. One minion keeps cutting back into line to get an extra kiss. I was blessed to watch this scene play out live, every weekday evening as I picked the boys up from Grammy and Papa's house. The twins would go give Papa a kiss, and then head to the door, then run back for one last kiss. And run back again for just one more.
Yesterday, we said good bye to Papa Gordie. He passed a few hours after we left. It breaks my heart knowing that I won't ever see this sweet scene again. Also, I know from my own experience, that the boys will have limited memories of Papa, if they remember him at all. So I will hold on to this memory, and more to share with them as they grow.
Yesterday, we said good bye to Papa Gordie. He passed a few hours after we left. It breaks my heart knowing that I won't ever see this sweet scene again. Also, I know from my own experience, that the boys will have limited memories of Papa, if they remember him at all. So I will hold on to this memory, and more to share with them as they grow.
Labels:
family life,
kids
Friday, July 29, 2011
Getting Published
Lately our family is being highlighted in a few local magazines. One happens to be available to read online, and shows a photo of Kaia at the beach on page 30. Another magazine recently quoted me regarding having pets and kids. I was slightly misquoted, as we didn't have all the animals at once, but that's ok, the point is still there.
The most exciting piece though, is that I have written an article about our TTTS story that will be published in an upcoming edition of Playdate Magazine. I'm very happy about this, as I've spent over a year trying to get someone to notice the importance of telling our story. Not for our publicity, but to create awareness around TTTS. I hear of too many parents losing their babies to TTTS, and it's not ok. I want all moms pregnant with twins to know about TTTS, whether they may be at risk, and the symptoms that a mom will have, if there is TTTS. This story is a step in the right direction. And once it is published, I will try to scan a copy or at least publish my story.
The most exciting piece though, is that I have written an article about our TTTS story that will be published in an upcoming edition of Playdate Magazine. I'm very happy about this, as I've spent over a year trying to get someone to notice the importance of telling our story. Not for our publicity, but to create awareness around TTTS. I hear of too many parents losing their babies to TTTS, and it's not ok. I want all moms pregnant with twins to know about TTTS, whether they may be at risk, and the symptoms that a mom will have, if there is TTTS. This story is a step in the right direction. And once it is published, I will try to scan a copy or at least publish my story.
Labels:
blessings,
family life,
kids
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Monster Truck Show aka The Day We Spent a Small Fortune to See Our Kids Smile
This weekend we went to the Monster Truck Show. Dana had been considering taking Morgan, and Grandma Owie offered to pay for their tickets. In the end, all 6 of us went with friends, and had a great time! It was definitely worth it!
Kaia gets a good view of Captain USA's rollover
Brendon did enjoy it, in spite of the serious face.
We had great seats, as you can see.
Labels:
family life,
kids
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Backyard Improvements
As I mentioned earlier, we are reclaiming our backyard this year. For too long we've allowed the dogs full reign while we stayed inside or out front. We started with a fence, then some major poop pick up, followed by Dana pressure washing the deck, and now the play set. We'll continue by planting the previously lush garden bed with flowers once again!
The kids, are thrilled with the new development.
Labels:
dog,
family life,
kids
Monday, March 28, 2011
Garden Dreams
I want to go out and get the garden ready this year, but the weather hasn't received my request yet. We have had an unusually cool and wet spring so far, and every weekend has brought us rain. So for now, I will settle for planting my seeds for setting out later. I'm hoping they all do well, and we have a bountiful garden all summer long.
I purchased all my seeds from Ed Hume Seeds and the plan is to not purchase plants. I'll let you know how that works out.
Here is the list for 2011:
Oregon Spring Tomato (these were fabulous 2 years ago)
Gourmet Blend Lettuce (Buttercrunch, Grand Rapids, Red Sails and Parris Island Romaine)
Cal Wonder 300 Bell Pepper
Arugula
Basil
Golden Cross Bantam Sweet Corn
Gold Nugget Tomato
Blue Curled Scotch Kale
Martino's Roma Tomato
Crimson Sweet Watermelon
Early Jalapeno Pepper
Olympia Hybrid Spinach
Spacemaster Cucumber
Mesclun Mixed Salad Greens
Cilantro
Cocozelle Zucchini
Sugar Ann Snap Peas
French Green Beans (bush beans)
And for the rest of the garden, and to get a start on our backyard garden:
Shasta Daisy
Godeti Double Azalea (free gift with my order)
California Poppy
Sweet William
Alpine Poppy
Heliotrope
Livingstone Daisy
More on our backyard garden plans to come. Let's just say we are reclaiming a large portion from the dogs, and our tax return is going to make it fun!
I purchased all my seeds from Ed Hume Seeds and the plan is to not purchase plants. I'll let you know how that works out.
Here is the list for 2011:
Oregon Spring Tomato (these were fabulous 2 years ago)
Gourmet Blend Lettuce (Buttercrunch, Grand Rapids, Red Sails and Parris Island Romaine)
Cal Wonder 300 Bell Pepper
Arugula
Basil
Golden Cross Bantam Sweet Corn
Gold Nugget Tomato
Blue Curled Scotch Kale
Martino's Roma Tomato
Crimson Sweet Watermelon
Early Jalapeno Pepper
Olympia Hybrid Spinach
Spacemaster Cucumber
Mesclun Mixed Salad Greens
Cilantro
Cocozelle Zucchini
Sugar Ann Snap Peas
French Green Beans (bush beans)
And for the rest of the garden, and to get a start on our backyard garden:
Shasta Daisy
Godeti Double Azalea (free gift with my order)
California Poppy
Sweet William
Alpine Poppy
Heliotrope
Livingstone Daisy
More on our backyard garden plans to come. Let's just say we are reclaiming a large portion from the dogs, and our tax return is going to make it fun!
Labels:
family life,
gardens
Friday, March 4, 2011
Parenting with an Open Mind
So quick question, answer it as quickly as possible (in your head is fine):
Is it ok to send your child to school with pink or blue spray streaks in their hair?
Got your initial answer? Now think about it. Was your initial answer based on what others have told you was ok? Or was your answer something that you feel strongly about?
This exact question was a daunting one for me, and for Dana as well. I admit that my first answer to my question, is not the same as it is now. A few months ago my mom gave Kaia a can of pink hairspray. I admit right now, my first reaction was, "Oh no, she didn't..." The "mom" in me was cringing. It wasn't ok to put pink spray in my 7 year old's hair.
A few days later, the "me" in me grabbed the mom in a choke hold and called her a big hypocrite that had somehow lost touch with her own ideas. Somehow the "mom" in me was listening to what society might think, or what other parents might think, rather than what I might think. And it's true. Prior to Kaia starting school I looked at all the local options. First off, I'm a huge proponent of public schools. I strongly believe that while they may be underfunded, the teachers are there not for the great pay and benefits (which they don't have) but because they have a passion for the next generation. So I was ready to put Kaia into our local public school, but was concerned about child care before and after, and felt it would be best to look at all of our options. The problem was, every single private school whether Catholic, Christian or Seventh Day Adventist all had a student handbook. And every student handbook had some rule about the length of hair for boys, and color of hair for boys and girls. There were also rules on nail polish use, the banning of use by boys. Most also had policy on clothing and it wasn't just about modest clothing. With each rule I became upset.
Dana and I are the parents of our kids. If Dana and I are ok with our boys having long hair or painting their nails, I don't want a school telling us it's inappropriate. If Dana and I allow Kaia to dye her hair purple and spike it, then it is our decision, And if our kids want to wear jeans with holes in the knees, and sneakers that are falling apart as part of their self-expression, then so be it. We draw the line when clothing is immodest, or when the alteration is permanent like a tattoo or piercing, or last if the self-expression is actually rebellion that comes with attitude. But most of all we don't need a school telling us what is acceptable for our children.
I have heard the arguments that rules in school prep our kids for rules at work, and I'm fine if you feel that way. I strongly feel that childhood and adolescent years are for figuring out who you are, and if you are too busy trying to fit into someone else's box of what is acceptable, how can you do that?
Sure my initial reaction was very anti-pink hair, but this morning I sprayed 2 pink stripes into Kaia's hair, just like I did a few days ago. Pink hair doesn't hurt anyone.
I'm definitely going to start doing a check on myself when I have gut reactions to things. Too often, my initial reaction is not my own. Have you spotted any areas in your life where you are listening to others rather than listening to yourself?
Is it ok to send your child to school with pink or blue spray streaks in their hair?
Got your initial answer? Now think about it. Was your initial answer based on what others have told you was ok? Or was your answer something that you feel strongly about?
This exact question was a daunting one for me, and for Dana as well. I admit that my first answer to my question, is not the same as it is now. A few months ago my mom gave Kaia a can of pink hairspray. I admit right now, my first reaction was, "Oh no, she didn't..." The "mom" in me was cringing. It wasn't ok to put pink spray in my 7 year old's hair.
A few days later, the "me" in me grabbed the mom in a choke hold and called her a big hypocrite that had somehow lost touch with her own ideas. Somehow the "mom" in me was listening to what society might think, or what other parents might think, rather than what I might think. And it's true. Prior to Kaia starting school I looked at all the local options. First off, I'm a huge proponent of public schools. I strongly believe that while they may be underfunded, the teachers are there not for the great pay and benefits (which they don't have) but because they have a passion for the next generation. So I was ready to put Kaia into our local public school, but was concerned about child care before and after, and felt it would be best to look at all of our options. The problem was, every single private school whether Catholic, Christian or Seventh Day Adventist all had a student handbook. And every student handbook had some rule about the length of hair for boys, and color of hair for boys and girls. There were also rules on nail polish use, the banning of use by boys. Most also had policy on clothing and it wasn't just about modest clothing. With each rule I became upset.
Dana and I are the parents of our kids. If Dana and I are ok with our boys having long hair or painting their nails, I don't want a school telling us it's inappropriate. If Dana and I allow Kaia to dye her hair purple and spike it, then it is our decision, And if our kids want to wear jeans with holes in the knees, and sneakers that are falling apart as part of their self-expression, then so be it. We draw the line when clothing is immodest, or when the alteration is permanent like a tattoo or piercing, or last if the self-expression is actually rebellion that comes with attitude. But most of all we don't need a school telling us what is acceptable for our children.
I have heard the arguments that rules in school prep our kids for rules at work, and I'm fine if you feel that way. I strongly feel that childhood and adolescent years are for figuring out who you are, and if you are too busy trying to fit into someone else's box of what is acceptable, how can you do that?
Sure my initial reaction was very anti-pink hair, but this morning I sprayed 2 pink stripes into Kaia's hair, just like I did a few days ago. Pink hair doesn't hurt anyone.
I'm definitely going to start doing a check on myself when I have gut reactions to things. Too often, my initial reaction is not my own. Have you spotted any areas in your life where you are listening to others rather than listening to yourself?
Labels:
family life,
kids,
me,
soap box
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Hanging In
It never slows down at our house! Alice is healing quite nicely. After several days of her destroying the carrier by spilling water and spreading litter, we decided to let her have Kaia's room to roam in. It's a few days earlier than the vet recommended, however she was just so darn active.
I'm busy preparing to leave for New Orleans. Dana and I spent last weekend really cleaning up the house, so now it's just keeping it picked up before I leave. I also will be buying plenty of quick and easy meals for Dana and Kaia as they bach' it. The boys will be staying with Grammy and Papa, and I'm pretty sure the Bobos will forget all about me while I'm gone. They love Grammy and Papa.
And in the midst of all this, I got really sick. I ended up on antibiotics and off my fast. I'm starting to feel better now, but have a horrible barking cough. So with the sickness has come lots and lots of sleep. And that my friends, is a good thing.
I'm busy preparing to leave for New Orleans. Dana and I spent last weekend really cleaning up the house, so now it's just keeping it picked up before I leave. I also will be buying plenty of quick and easy meals for Dana and Kaia as they bach' it. The boys will be staying with Grammy and Papa, and I'm pretty sure the Bobos will forget all about me while I'm gone. They love Grammy and Papa.
And in the midst of all this, I got really sick. I ended up on antibiotics and off my fast. I'm starting to feel better now, but have a horrible barking cough. So with the sickness has come lots and lots of sleep. And that my friends, is a good thing.
Labels:
cats,
family life,
food,
vacation
Monday, January 24, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
The Ugly Truth
That is a photo of our front room. No matter how often we pick up, it always ends up looking just like that.
These are two of the cutest culprits, I've ever seen.
I'll leave what the floor underneath them looks like to your imagination.
Our home is a work in progress. Lots and lots of work, for just a little progress.
Labels:
cleaning,
family life
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
My Vision
I've thought about making a vision board for a long time, but never knew what to put on it. This year, I finally have some ideas. Some are this year visions, others long term. But I want them all. Here are a few things going on my board.
In the center of my board is a cross. I am trying to be more dedicated to my faith this year, and will soon be taking part in a 21 day Daniel Fast (recipes to come). I expect during that time to really find some direction, so I no longer feel like I'm just going through the motions of life. I want to live life.
Boobs. Yes, you read that correctly, I want boobs. Once upon a time, I had boobs. That was 7 years ago. I've only seen them again during pregnancy and nursing. The rest of the time, they are just loose skin. But, I'm picky. I don't just want a boob job. I don't like the idea of putting some foreign objects there and hoping they look natural for years to come. I also want them to feel natural. So I want fat transplants. I don't know when it will happen, but it is a goal of mine. One that I would love to scratch off my list this year.
Fitness. This is something I've been working on more recently. I've been hitting the treadmill in the mornings and reading a book while I put in 15 minutes or more at 3.5 miles per hour. I feel great for doing it, and have more energy to make it through the day.
Sex. Who doesn't want sex? Unfortunately with four kids, it's not always easy to find a moment to escape with Dana. I am really enjoying the ideas and thoughts found on this christian blog though.
Beach House. This is one that has been a long term goal for me, for a long time. It's also one I know Dana would love as well. I've decided that while I do not want to move to the Oregon Coast any time soon, I want to own a home there. A home that we could rent out when we aren't using, and a home that we could pack up and head to for long weekends and vacations. I even found this one, just a few houses away from where we stayed in 2008.
Clean Home. Yes, I always hope for order. I dream of being able to keep up on housework while still spending time with my family. I'm getting there, little by little, day by day.
Healthy Diet. I'd like for us as a family to eat more fruits and vegetables, fresh meat and unprocessed foods. While I can't force that, I can at least make sure I serve healthier meals.
I hope to have a jpeg version of my vision board soon, and I will share it with you. What are your visions for your future?
In the center of my board is a cross. I am trying to be more dedicated to my faith this year, and will soon be taking part in a 21 day Daniel Fast (recipes to come). I expect during that time to really find some direction, so I no longer feel like I'm just going through the motions of life. I want to live life.
Boobs. Yes, you read that correctly, I want boobs. Once upon a time, I had boobs. That was 7 years ago. I've only seen them again during pregnancy and nursing. The rest of the time, they are just loose skin. But, I'm picky. I don't just want a boob job. I don't like the idea of putting some foreign objects there and hoping they look natural for years to come. I also want them to feel natural. So I want fat transplants. I don't know when it will happen, but it is a goal of mine. One that I would love to scratch off my list this year.
Fitness. This is something I've been working on more recently. I've been hitting the treadmill in the mornings and reading a book while I put in 15 minutes or more at 3.5 miles per hour. I feel great for doing it, and have more energy to make it through the day.
Sex. Who doesn't want sex? Unfortunately with four kids, it's not always easy to find a moment to escape with Dana. I am really enjoying the ideas and thoughts found on this christian blog though.
Beach House. This is one that has been a long term goal for me, for a long time. It's also one I know Dana would love as well. I've decided that while I do not want to move to the Oregon Coast any time soon, I want to own a home there. A home that we could rent out when we aren't using, and a home that we could pack up and head to for long weekends and vacations. I even found this one, just a few houses away from where we stayed in 2008.
Clean Home. Yes, I always hope for order. I dream of being able to keep up on housework while still spending time with my family. I'm getting there, little by little, day by day.
Healthy Diet. I'd like for us as a family to eat more fruits and vegetables, fresh meat and unprocessed foods. While I can't force that, I can at least make sure I serve healthier meals.
I hope to have a jpeg version of my vision board soon, and I will share it with you. What are your visions for your future?
Labels:
family life,
me
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Precious
It's a week later, and instead of posting my funny Christmas list, it's more bad news. Prayers are needed for a friend of mine. We met on BabyFit while I was pregnant with the twins, and she was pregnant with her second daughter. Yesterday, her daughter Sofia was suddenly taken to Jesus. Just one year old, and already gone.
My heart and soul hurt for her parents, Felicia and Ralphy. I cannot imagine the questions their 3 year old daughter is now asking. I spent yesterday crying and praying for the family, and continue to do so today. While driving home, I was reminded of the words of Jesus:For the days are coming when they will say, ‘Fortunate indeed are the women who are childless, the wombs that have not borne a child and the breasts that have never nursed.’ (Luke 23:29, New Living Translation)
I've never fully understood that verse until recently. There is something different about the death of a child, once you have your own. I do not mean that my dear friends without children, don't ache for the lost child, but something changes. You feel the loss of another woman's child, as deeply as if the child were your own. As a mother, we see how fragile our child's life really is, and we think of ourselves in that position. Suddenly we empathize in a way we didn't know how to before we gave birth.
Dana and I have even discussed how different death is to him now that he is a dad. The thought of losing a child, or even watching a drama about the death of a child is disturbing. Something neither of us gave a second thought about before Kaia.
I ask you today, to hug your children a little tighter, or your niece or nephew or any child in your life. Give them that extra kiss. And join me in praying for Sofia's family in this time of great sorrow. If you are willing join me in a partial fast, while praying for their comfort, strength and peace.
My heart and soul hurt for her parents, Felicia and Ralphy. I cannot imagine the questions their 3 year old daughter is now asking. I spent yesterday crying and praying for the family, and continue to do so today. While driving home, I was reminded of the words of Jesus:
Labels:
blessings,
family life
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Christmas Time
Or it's already Christmas if you ask Morgan. It's been snowing, and we've been to a Christmas play already, so of course presents are coming any day... right?!
These photos were taken after the first snow, more has fallen, and more is on it's way. This has actually been a bit of a rough spell for us. The snow is beautiful, and the tree is up and decorated by Kaia and Morgan, but so much has been going on.
First was the death of a friend of mine. He suffered from diabetes and kidney failure and was only 40 years old. It was unexpected, completely a shock. Everyone believed that he would get a transplant and live a long life. He was so full of life he just had to. For Dana and I, it's scary to consider the parallels. Dana is just 2 years younger, and also suffers from diabetes. While his kidneys have held out, he has dealt with his fair share of health issues, and it really put things in perspective.
2 days after the funeral the snow began to fall. Snow means extra work for Dana. It means very early mornings and going into work on days off. It's tiring for him, and it isn't easy on the rest of us. The kids miss seeing daddy in the evenings, and Dana misses spending time with them. Right now our evenings are a rush to eat dinner and go to bed.
Then this weekend my great aunt Ruby died. It is a blessing that she is no longer in pain, but she will be missed. She was such a sweet lady, and Kaia had grown to love spending time with Aunt Ruby.
Through all of this though, Christmas approaches and it's not all sad news. My VISTA worker started this week, and is staying with us temporarily. A new face in the house means very excited and talkative kids. I'm also preparing for a conference in New Orleans. A city I've wanted to visit for a very long time, but wondered if I'd ever make it there. The twins continue to grow and are becoming quite the characters. And we all continue to enjoy good times spent with family.
These photos were taken after the first snow, more has fallen, and more is on it's way. This has actually been a bit of a rough spell for us. The snow is beautiful, and the tree is up and decorated by Kaia and Morgan, but so much has been going on.
First was the death of a friend of mine. He suffered from diabetes and kidney failure and was only 40 years old. It was unexpected, completely a shock. Everyone believed that he would get a transplant and live a long life. He was so full of life he just had to. For Dana and I, it's scary to consider the parallels. Dana is just 2 years younger, and also suffers from diabetes. While his kidneys have held out, he has dealt with his fair share of health issues, and it really put things in perspective.
2 days after the funeral the snow began to fall. Snow means extra work for Dana. It means very early mornings and going into work on days off. It's tiring for him, and it isn't easy on the rest of us. The kids miss seeing daddy in the evenings, and Dana misses spending time with them. Right now our evenings are a rush to eat dinner and go to bed.
Then this weekend my great aunt Ruby died. It is a blessing that she is no longer in pain, but she will be missed. She was such a sweet lady, and Kaia had grown to love spending time with Aunt Ruby.
Through all of this though, Christmas approaches and it's not all sad news. My VISTA worker started this week, and is staying with us temporarily. A new face in the house means very excited and talkative kids. I'm also preparing for a conference in New Orleans. A city I've wanted to visit for a very long time, but wondered if I'd ever make it there. The twins continue to grow and are becoming quite the characters. And we all continue to enjoy good times spent with family.
Labels:
family life,
kids
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
The Kihn Sandwich
I discovered the true proof that Kaia and Morgan are Kihns last week. Never mind that they have the Kihn temper and look just like a Kihn, it's all in the sandwich. Kaia and Morgan have made the sandwich their new favorite snack. The Kihns all love this sandwich, I have not tried it, and because I'd rather lick a frog than eat bologna, I have no plans to try it. Perhaps you are braver than I?
Kihn Sandwich
2 slices white bread (the fluffy stuff with no nutritional value)
Sandwich Spread (the kind with relish in it)
Peanut Butter
Lettuce
Cheese (American is preferred, but you can use cheddar)
Bologna
On one slice of bread, spread Sandwich Spread, on the other spread Peanut Butter. In between the slices of bread add lettuce, cheese and bologna. Enjoy... or if you are me, pass it on to a family member that will eat it.
Kihn Sandwich
2 slices white bread (the fluffy stuff with no nutritional value)
Sandwich Spread (the kind with relish in it)
Peanut Butter
Lettuce
Cheese (American is preferred, but you can use cheddar)
Bologna
On one slice of bread, spread Sandwich Spread, on the other spread Peanut Butter. In between the slices of bread add lettuce, cheese and bologna. Enjoy... or if you are me, pass it on to a family member that will eat it.
Labels:
family life,
food,
kids
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Progress
Things are moving along at the Kihn house!
The boys turned 11 months old yesterday, and have started taking several steps at a time. In no time, we will have 2 walkers to keep up with. Their 1st Birthday is just around the corner, and I already have their Halloween costumes planned.
Morgan, who no longer likes to be called Mo, has slept 2 of the past 3 nights in a bed other than Dana's and mine. Both he and Kaia have been going to bed at 8:30 pm without much fuss as well. Another huge milestone, he has started going into the bathroom when he needs to poop. He's not using the toilet yet, but it is the first step to being potty trained according to the method I'm following. I owe a huge thank you to Mrs. Mordecai for sending me the article on this way of training.
Kaia is cruising through 2nd grade. She is reading 3rd grade level books, doing really well on her math homework when she applies herself, and has already been to one birthday party this school year.
Dana and I are enjoying having our bed to ourselves, and having a quiet house after all the kids are in bed.
The cats still do not like Nemesis, and Nemesis loves to terrorize the cats. This is just one of the photos I snapped during the 5 minutes Cinnamon and Nemesis got along.
My second 24 hours wasn't nearly as easy as the first. I didn't want to eat my foods, and everything I thought to make for dinner had something that wasn't allowed. I made fried rice, bbq pork and egg rolls for Dana and the kids to eat. I did cheat and had a few scrap pieces of bbq pork, but only because I wanted the super hot mustard. I love that stuff. I had roasted chicken thighs and broccoli. This morning I had leftover cold chicken and Ry Krisps with cream cheese for breakfast. For lunch, I met my brother at Pizza Hut for their buffet. I couldn't eat the pizza or pasta, but I enjoyed 2 plates of salad. Tonight I think we'll have meatloaf for dinner. Some of the grumpiness I can tell is hormones, and some is sugar withdrawl. I also remembered that I only did the 2 week diet last time, because I figured out quite quickly my trigger foods. So I will likely do the same as last time. I will add back in the foods I know I can eat, and stay away from the sugary stuff and the sweet baked goods which are usually what get me the worst.
The boys turned 11 months old yesterday, and have started taking several steps at a time. In no time, we will have 2 walkers to keep up with. Their 1st Birthday is just around the corner, and I already have their Halloween costumes planned.
Morgan, who no longer likes to be called Mo, has slept 2 of the past 3 nights in a bed other than Dana's and mine. Both he and Kaia have been going to bed at 8:30 pm without much fuss as well. Another huge milestone, he has started going into the bathroom when he needs to poop. He's not using the toilet yet, but it is the first step to being potty trained according to the method I'm following. I owe a huge thank you to Mrs. Mordecai for sending me the article on this way of training.
Kaia is cruising through 2nd grade. She is reading 3rd grade level books, doing really well on her math homework when she applies herself, and has already been to one birthday party this school year.
Dana and I are enjoying having our bed to ourselves, and having a quiet house after all the kids are in bed.
The cats still do not like Nemesis, and Nemesis loves to terrorize the cats. This is just one of the photos I snapped during the 5 minutes Cinnamon and Nemesis got along.
My second 24 hours wasn't nearly as easy as the first. I didn't want to eat my foods, and everything I thought to make for dinner had something that wasn't allowed. I made fried rice, bbq pork and egg rolls for Dana and the kids to eat. I did cheat and had a few scrap pieces of bbq pork, but only because I wanted the super hot mustard. I love that stuff. I had roasted chicken thighs and broccoli. This morning I had leftover cold chicken and Ry Krisps with cream cheese for breakfast. For lunch, I met my brother at Pizza Hut for their buffet. I couldn't eat the pizza or pasta, but I enjoyed 2 plates of salad. Tonight I think we'll have meatloaf for dinner. Some of the grumpiness I can tell is hormones, and some is sugar withdrawl. I also remembered that I only did the 2 week diet last time, because I figured out quite quickly my trigger foods. So I will likely do the same as last time. I will add back in the foods I know I can eat, and stay away from the sugary stuff and the sweet baked goods which are usually what get me the worst.
Labels:
cats,
family life,
food,
me
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Miss Me?
I'm finally back to post! I'm using my lunch break, one of the first that was truly a break, to check in. It has been non-stop at work and at home.
Work has been non-stop interviews, presentations, meetings, and mailings. It looks like a filing cabinet puked on my desk. I worked late most nights last week, and when I didn't work late, I was at a school meeting.
Kaia started 2nd grade, and no surprise she loves it. Mo is having a hard time adjusting to his sissy being gone, and has been in quite the mood. I'm pretty sure both of them are going through a growth spurt, as more than 50% of the meals I make are going to the two of them, and Dana and I get what's left. The twins are starting to sleep through the night, and they keep us busy when they are awake. Dana and I are realizing that mornings are one of the few times we actually see each other during the week. We'll hopefully get a date night this weekend to go see Resident Evil Afterlife.
On the health front we've all been fighting a cold. I'm still fighting this fibromyalgia or whatever it is. I'm worn down, I hurt all over, and I'm tired of it. So Labor Day weekend was us being a bunch of bums and lounging around. I did tackle one big thing though. Kaia's room. I should have taken a before photo, but it was disgusting. What's important is to know that there was a 2 foot layer of clothes, toys and garbage. Not anymore. And her closet is even clean.
I hope to be back to blogging, and visiting your blogs again very soon! I miss keeping up with everyone.
Work has been non-stop interviews, presentations, meetings, and mailings. It looks like a filing cabinet puked on my desk. I worked late most nights last week, and when I didn't work late, I was at a school meeting.
Kaia started 2nd grade, and no surprise she loves it. Mo is having a hard time adjusting to his sissy being gone, and has been in quite the mood. I'm pretty sure both of them are going through a growth spurt, as more than 50% of the meals I make are going to the two of them, and Dana and I get what's left. The twins are starting to sleep through the night, and they keep us busy when they are awake. Dana and I are realizing that mornings are one of the few times we actually see each other during the week. We'll hopefully get a date night this weekend to go see Resident Evil Afterlife.
On the health front we've all been fighting a cold. I'm still fighting this fibromyalgia or whatever it is. I'm worn down, I hurt all over, and I'm tired of it. So Labor Day weekend was us being a bunch of bums and lounging around. I did tackle one big thing though. Kaia's room. I should have taken a before photo, but it was disgusting. What's important is to know that there was a 2 foot layer of clothes, toys and garbage. Not anymore. And her closet is even clean.
I hope to be back to blogging, and visiting your blogs again very soon! I miss keeping up with everyone.
Labels:
blogging,
family life
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