Myles is in God School this week, as he likes to call it. Or Vacation Bible School to the rest of us.
He's having a blast and really looks forward to going.
It's been fun to watch him grow and flourish over the last couple of years. 2 years ago it was just awful to take him. He cried and didn't want me to leave, and I really didn't think he'd last the whole evening.
Last year was much better, still a little nervous, acted a little shy, but seemed much more okay since it's at the same church he goes to preschool. That helped a lot.
This year he seems to be okay with it all. And I'm only judging that based on the fact he told his sister:
Hey Gina. I'm going to God School tonight and you can't come. You can't even come in. No one can. Not even mommy. You're just dropping me off at the front door. But I'll see you later and when I come home I'll come into your room and tell you I'm back.
Yeah, so he seemed alright with it all. I wonder if he'd be happier if I just came to a slow roll, let him hop out and speedily drove away like I have no idea who he is.
The only downside to VBS is that Myles is a very routine oriented person. And it's from 6:30-8:30 every night and he normally goes to bed at 8. It's making for some very, let's say emotional mornings. But hey, I can be emotional if I want to. :)
Tomorrow is the last night and we end with an ice-cream party. Cause there's nothing better than keeping a boy up past his bed time every night for a week, than keeping him up late AND hyping him up on sugar before sending him home.
Good times.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Happy Father's Day!
Happy Father's Day, Derrick.
Myles has some big shoes to fill. Literally.
Gina loves you so much. She looks up to you.
Thank you for being such a great father.
And Happy Father's Day to my dad as well. You were an amazing father and a wonderful example of what a dad should be.
Myles has some big shoes to fill. Literally.
Gina loves you so much. She looks up to you.
Thank you for being such a great father.
And Happy Father's Day to my dad as well. You were an amazing father and a wonderful example of what a dad should be.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Happy Anniversary
Happy 11th Anniversary, Derrick! I can't believe it's been 11 years. We've been through so much during that time, and so much has changed. We're hardly even the same people we were 11 years ago.
And by the way, writing this post makes me realize that we really need to get a good, recent photo of ourselves.
And speaking of photos, all of our wedding pictures were not even digital, and the video tape of our wedding was given to us on a VHS tape. Wow. Has that much changed since we got married? It seems in one way it's only been a couple of years, and in other ways like it's been much longer.
Now we have two amazing and beautiful children together. My dream is that we are able is to set an example of what marriage can and should be for our kids, and to be the best parents we can be to them.
We've been through some rough times the last couple of years, but I really feel as our faith in God is growing, and we continue to grow, our lives, as well as our relationship, will flourish.
I love you!
And by the way, writing this post makes me realize that we really need to get a good, recent photo of ourselves.
And speaking of photos, all of our wedding pictures were not even digital, and the video tape of our wedding was given to us on a VHS tape. Wow. Has that much changed since we got married? It seems in one way it's only been a couple of years, and in other ways like it's been much longer.
Now we have two amazing and beautiful children together. My dream is that we are able is to set an example of what marriage can and should be for our kids, and to be the best parents we can be to them.
We've been through some rough times the last couple of years, but I really feel as our faith in God is growing, and we continue to grow, our lives, as well as our relationship, will flourish.
I love you!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Pictures of my sweet girl and her haircut
In the "Wednesday" post below I talked about Gina's haircut.
Here are the pics of her getting that done and then a couple from this morning with her hair down. Can't you just tell she hates getting her picture taken?! :)
Here are the pics of her getting that done and then a couple from this morning with her hair down. Can't you just tell she hates getting her picture taken?! :)
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
To have just a touch of his imagination
My boy has the best imagination...and memory. And I could kick myself for not recording more of the funny things he says. So that's exactly what I'm going to do now.
Yesterday on the way home they noticed a flock of birds take off in flight. This is what he said:
Him:"Do you know what I would do if I was a bird"?
Me: "What"
Him: "I'd fly all the way up to the sky"
Me: Oh yeah? What would you do there?
Him: I'd go see the giant!
Yeah, the giant that lives up high in the sky. But he wouldn't catch me!
Me: Oh he wouldn't? How come?
Him: Because I'd be too good of a flyer!
Me: Oh--well, of course you would.
Him: Yep, and Gina could come with me. She could be the sister bird.
Me: That's nice of you.
Him: Yeah, and you could come too. you'd be the mommy bird. And daddy could be the daddy bird. And Max and Sophie would be the doggy birds".
--laughing--
Him: Yep, but the giant would never catch us!
Me: "Cause we'd all be too good of flyers?
Yup, we sure would. But he might catch us on the way down. But I don't think so.
~~~~~~~~~
This next one happened yesterday night as they were getting ready for bed. He likes picking out what Gina is going to wear the next day. He wants to make her beautiful. Should I be worried about all this concern over "beautiful"? :)
He picked out a polo style dress Gina has and asked if she could wear it. I said sure.
He said "are you sure? Last time she wore this is when G-ma was in town and she said Gina looked like a pattycake".
Mom and I have no idea what that's about, but I bet if I could figure it out it'd be funny, cause you just know he has something all confused in his head.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This last one was on the way to work this morning. He was very worried about somthing and started to cry.
It turns out he was worried about something he thought he couldn't do and he'd be too embarassed to ask his sitter for help with.
We had a long talk about how I didn't want him to feel worried and it'd be okay and his sitter would be there if he needed her and how I think he can do so much more than he knows he can.
I could see his wheels turning and asked if he was feeling better. He said no, he was still worried.
I again told him that things would be okay and that even though he says he can't do this I know he can because he's done it before and that I knew he could do it again.
Again, there was silence. And thinking. I have hope that maybe he's processing what I'm saying and feeling better about things. And then he says:
Well, I don't eat vegetables.
So, there you have it. A few memories of my favorite boy.
Yesterday on the way home they noticed a flock of birds take off in flight. This is what he said:
Him:"Do you know what I would do if I was a bird"?
Me: "What"
Him: "I'd fly all the way up to the sky"
Me: Oh yeah? What would you do there?
Him: I'd go see the giant!
Yeah, the giant that lives up high in the sky. But he wouldn't catch me!
Me: Oh he wouldn't? How come?
Him: Because I'd be too good of a flyer!
Me: Oh--well, of course you would.
Him: Yep, and Gina could come with me. She could be the sister bird.
Me: That's nice of you.
Him: Yeah, and you could come too. you'd be the mommy bird. And daddy could be the daddy bird. And Max and Sophie would be the doggy birds".
--laughing--
Him: Yep, but the giant would never catch us!
Me: "Cause we'd all be too good of flyers?
Yup, we sure would. But he might catch us on the way down. But I don't think so.
~~~~~~~~~
This next one happened yesterday night as they were getting ready for bed. He likes picking out what Gina is going to wear the next day. He wants to make her beautiful. Should I be worried about all this concern over "beautiful"? :)
He picked out a polo style dress Gina has and asked if she could wear it. I said sure.
He said "are you sure? Last time she wore this is when G-ma was in town and she said Gina looked like a pattycake".
Mom and I have no idea what that's about, but I bet if I could figure it out it'd be funny, cause you just know he has something all confused in his head.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This last one was on the way to work this morning. He was very worried about somthing and started to cry.
It turns out he was worried about something he thought he couldn't do and he'd be too embarassed to ask his sitter for help with.
We had a long talk about how I didn't want him to feel worried and it'd be okay and his sitter would be there if he needed her and how I think he can do so much more than he knows he can.
I could see his wheels turning and asked if he was feeling better. He said no, he was still worried.
I again told him that things would be okay and that even though he says he can't do this I know he can because he's done it before and that I knew he could do it again.
Again, there was silence. And thinking. I have hope that maybe he's processing what I'm saying and feeling better about things. And then he says:
Well, I don't eat vegetables.
So, there you have it. A few memories of my favorite boy.
Wednesday?
How did it get to be Wednesday already? I still haven't posted about my weekend!
Unfortunately my camera will not hold a charge these days, so the pics have to wait until tomorrow, but we had fun.
Friday night Derrick and I took the kids to the mall. The intention was to get Gina a haircut and let Myles play, but no one could fit Gina in. It worked out though. We let them play and took them to Bass Outdoor World in the mall, and they had a great time looking at all of the fish and the turtles in their indoor aquarium.
Saturday Derrick was working, but I got some stuff done around the house in the morning, and then we headed out to get Gina's haircut at a place that specializes in children's hair. She did great. I took lots of pictures, so I'll get those up. She got to sit in a big pink car and watch Barbie. Her hair is so curly it's not really getting longer---well it is, but it doesn't look it--and it just needed a major shape up. It was so uneven and would get so tangled it was impossible. At first I felt like they took too much off, but I think that's just because I want it to GROW!! I have noticed since they cut it it's much easier to take care of.
When they were done with the cut they put it in pigtails. I have to say, it was the cutest thing. And she was so proud of herself. All day she kept saying "pretty hair".
When we left we went to another mall to get my hair cut. They said it'd be about an hour wait, so we walked around and grabbed some lunch. They did so well!! There was a big water fountain in the middle of the mall and they both LOVED it. Myles loved throwing in pennies.
Then we went to get my haircut. I was a little nervous to get my hair cut with the kids with me, but it worked out. Myles was such a good big brother, and actually liked watching me do my hair.
Sunday we went to the church--unfortunatley for the first time in a couple of weeks between Derrick's surgery and the move, but it was great. I was so happy when Myles actually ASKED to go.
After church we went to lunch and then got more stuff out of our old house. What a process!
Monday we got more stuff done around the house, and then I took my fabric over to a friends house so she could sew it for me. Before we did though I painted my toenails. Myles didn't see me doing it, but when he saw me afterwards he said "Oh my GOSH. They are SO Beautiful. I could look at them all day. Or at least until I fall asleep. Can I touch them??!!". Isn't that hysterical?
And to top off my long weekend, I went out to dinner with some friends and had a great time! We are friends from childhood, so it's always good to reconnect. And hey, a couple of strawberry margaritas doesn't hurt! haha
Unfortunately my camera will not hold a charge these days, so the pics have to wait until tomorrow, but we had fun.
Friday night Derrick and I took the kids to the mall. The intention was to get Gina a haircut and let Myles play, but no one could fit Gina in. It worked out though. We let them play and took them to Bass Outdoor World in the mall, and they had a great time looking at all of the fish and the turtles in their indoor aquarium.
Saturday Derrick was working, but I got some stuff done around the house in the morning, and then we headed out to get Gina's haircut at a place that specializes in children's hair. She did great. I took lots of pictures, so I'll get those up. She got to sit in a big pink car and watch Barbie. Her hair is so curly it's not really getting longer---well it is, but it doesn't look it--and it just needed a major shape up. It was so uneven and would get so tangled it was impossible. At first I felt like they took too much off, but I think that's just because I want it to GROW!! I have noticed since they cut it it's much easier to take care of.
When they were done with the cut they put it in pigtails. I have to say, it was the cutest thing. And she was so proud of herself. All day she kept saying "pretty hair".
When we left we went to another mall to get my hair cut. They said it'd be about an hour wait, so we walked around and grabbed some lunch. They did so well!! There was a big water fountain in the middle of the mall and they both LOVED it. Myles loved throwing in pennies.
Then we went to get my haircut. I was a little nervous to get my hair cut with the kids with me, but it worked out. Myles was such a good big brother, and actually liked watching me do my hair.
Sunday we went to the church--unfortunatley for the first time in a couple of weeks between Derrick's surgery and the move, but it was great. I was so happy when Myles actually ASKED to go.
After church we went to lunch and then got more stuff out of our old house. What a process!
Monday we got more stuff done around the house, and then I took my fabric over to a friends house so she could sew it for me. Before we did though I painted my toenails. Myles didn't see me doing it, but when he saw me afterwards he said "Oh my GOSH. They are SO Beautiful. I could look at them all day. Or at least until I fall asleep. Can I touch them??!!". Isn't that hysterical?
And to top off my long weekend, I went out to dinner with some friends and had a great time! We are friends from childhood, so it's always good to reconnect. And hey, a couple of strawberry margaritas doesn't hurt! haha
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Pictures
Here are a few pics of the new place. In no apparent order because apparently I still struggle working with all the html code.
This is the material I purchased to go on the windows in our main living area and in our dining room. I just need a friend to sew the seam and a rod pocket so we can get it hung.
This is a pic from the front door of our main living area.
This is a picture of the kids room:
Another view of the kids room:
And yet another of their room. Can you spot the sleeping baby?
This is a picture of the curtain in the kids room I "made". This is a bad angle, but it's hung all the way where the ceiling and wall meets, but I think it hangs a little too low down the window. What do you think? I probably should have folded the material in half before hanging it so it wasn't so long, but I really don't feel like taking it down now to re-do it. Is that totally lazy, or what?
This is a picture of the kids closet. It's huge. It's hard to get a picture from the right angle to really show it, but I love all the shelving so that all of their toys have a place to go.
This is a picture I had to buy when I saw it as it happens to have my blog title in it!
This is a picture of the curtains in our room that I "made".
This is a picture of the window treatment in the kids bathroom I "made". That I can now see isn't hung totally straight. Oh well.
This is a picture of the area behind us. I love all the room the kids have to play.
So there you go! Once we get some more done and I actually take the time to take some more pics that aren't all blurry I'll get more posted.
We're definitely feeling more settled in and "at home". We still have some room to do in our bedroom as one of the dressers we were going to use sort of fell apart on us during the move. It was a chest of drawers by Sauder. The drawer roller/guide thingy's all started falling off! Let me know if you know how to fix that. The back of it also started coming off, so now it's all rickety, but I think that can simply be re-nailed to the dresser.
I can't really get everything put away and organized in there until I can use those drawers or figure something else out, so that's been a little frustrating. Our room is quite a bit smaller than it was at the house, so I'm trying to figure out how to make it a more relaxing space as right now it just feels too tight.
For those of you that have been blessed with the crafty or design gene let me know if you have any ideas and or suggestions for me!
This is the material I purchased to go on the windows in our main living area and in our dining room. I just need a friend to sew the seam and a rod pocket so we can get it hung.
This is a pic from the front door of our main living area.
This is a picture of the kids room:
Another view of the kids room:
And yet another of their room. Can you spot the sleeping baby?
This is a picture of the curtain in the kids room I "made". This is a bad angle, but it's hung all the way where the ceiling and wall meets, but I think it hangs a little too low down the window. What do you think? I probably should have folded the material in half before hanging it so it wasn't so long, but I really don't feel like taking it down now to re-do it. Is that totally lazy, or what?
This is a picture of the kids closet. It's huge. It's hard to get a picture from the right angle to really show it, but I love all the shelving so that all of their toys have a place to go.
This is a picture I had to buy when I saw it as it happens to have my blog title in it!
This is a picture of the curtains in our room that I "made".
This is a picture of the window treatment in the kids bathroom I "made". That I can now see isn't hung totally straight. Oh well.
This is a picture of the area behind us. I love all the room the kids have to play.
So there you go! Once we get some more done and I actually take the time to take some more pics that aren't all blurry I'll get more posted.
We're definitely feeling more settled in and "at home". We still have some room to do in our bedroom as one of the dressers we were going to use sort of fell apart on us during the move. It was a chest of drawers by Sauder. The drawer roller/guide thingy's all started falling off! Let me know if you know how to fix that. The back of it also started coming off, so now it's all rickety, but I think that can simply be re-nailed to the dresser.
I can't really get everything put away and organized in there until I can use those drawers or figure something else out, so that's been a little frustrating. Our room is quite a bit smaller than it was at the house, so I'm trying to figure out how to make it a more relaxing space as right now it just feels too tight.
For those of you that have been blessed with the crafty or design gene let me know if you have any ideas and or suggestions for me!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
A migraine
I had plans on sharing some of my window mistreatments, as the Nester would call them, with you today, but unfortunately I have an awful migraine. Or at least I did. It's actually getting better.
For some strange reason I've been getting headaches lately each time it's about to rain. I guess it's due to the change in barometric pressure, as cooky as that sounds.
But I knew when I was awakened by the pain in the middle of the night I was in trouble. And I was.
Fortunately I'm feeling better now, but don't have the brain capacity to upload the pictures to the blog, so I'll get a few on here tomorrow.
It's nice that we have super wide windows in the new place, but most store bought curtains wouldn't work for them. Or it'd just be really expensive to buy enough panels for all the windows. So while the ones I made aren't anything that special, I'm going by the Nester's philosophy that it doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful.
Thank goodness, cause these are anything but perfect. :)
For some strange reason I've been getting headaches lately each time it's about to rain. I guess it's due to the change in barometric pressure, as cooky as that sounds.
But I knew when I was awakened by the pain in the middle of the night I was in trouble. And I was.
Fortunately I'm feeling better now, but don't have the brain capacity to upload the pictures to the blog, so I'll get a few on here tomorrow.
It's nice that we have super wide windows in the new place, but most store bought curtains wouldn't work for them. Or it'd just be really expensive to buy enough panels for all the windows. So while the ones I made aren't anything that special, I'm going by the Nester's philosophy that it doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful.
Thank goodness, cause these are anything but perfect. :)
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
We've moved!
Actually we've been in our new place for just over a week now, but we've been too busy for me to get on and blog about it.
So far I am really liking it. It's quite a bit smaller, but that actually has some advantages to it. The kids are both adjusting well also and have enjoyed the ammenities the complex has to offer.
We are almost all moved in to the new place, but not entirely moved OUT of the old place. We still need to go back and get the rest of our stuff and get it all cleaned up. I have no idea how people would move without at least a little bit of "overlap" time. We have been working SO hard, but there's just so much to do.
I think once everything is done at the old house and we have officially closed I'll feel a little more settled in.
I do have a few pictures of the new place and of some of my "projects" that I'll get posted as soon as I can.
I made several window treatments that didn't turn out half bad. The new place has windows over 70" wide, so many store bought treatments wouldn't work and panels would get quite expensive. I found some great ideas for making your own window treatments via The Nester and gave them a shot.
I just wanted to check in with everyone and say hello and give you all an update!!
So far I am really liking it. It's quite a bit smaller, but that actually has some advantages to it. The kids are both adjusting well also and have enjoyed the ammenities the complex has to offer.
We are almost all moved in to the new place, but not entirely moved OUT of the old place. We still need to go back and get the rest of our stuff and get it all cleaned up. I have no idea how people would move without at least a little bit of "overlap" time. We have been working SO hard, but there's just so much to do.
I think once everything is done at the old house and we have officially closed I'll feel a little more settled in.
I do have a few pictures of the new place and of some of my "projects" that I'll get posted as soon as I can.
I made several window treatments that didn't turn out half bad. The new place has windows over 70" wide, so many store bought treatments wouldn't work and panels would get quite expensive. I found some great ideas for making your own window treatments via The Nester and gave them a shot.
I just wanted to check in with everyone and say hello and give you all an update!!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
When "Green" meets Frugal
I've seen a lot of info lately on "green" cleaners, and even tutorials on how to make your own cleaners, laundry detergent, dishwasher detergent, etc.
For those of you who know me, you know I am NOT crafty. I love the idea of being crafty, but all of my "projects" could pass for something one of my kids did.
So I ignored this type of info for a while.
Until I started realizing how much cheaper it'd also be. Green and Frugal sounds good to me. And to be completely honest, the fact that these cleaners are so cheap are what drew me in the most...the fact they are environmnetally friendly is just a bonus.
So far I have made:
my own all purpose cleaner from vinegar and water...it works on everything....in the kitchen, on glass, etc.
Shower cleaner from lemon juice...it works great!
Toilet bowl cleaner from straight vinegar
A sink cleaner in place of soft scrub just using baking soda. It's an abrasive, so it works well, plus it deodorizes
Laundry detergent! Yes, laudnry detergent! This one made me nervous, but I made it and used it and really liked it. It's just a bar of Fels Naptha Soap (I found it at Meijer with the other soaps) grated up with a cheese grater, a cup of washing soda and a cup of borax. That's it. Just shook them together (Myles did that for me) and I use two tablespoons per load.
Fabric softener--just add some vinegar to a downy ball. It also helps whiten the whites.
I can't tell you how nice it is to save so much money on all of those household cleaners, plus just to have less bottles to store. Since we're downsizing, this is just one more way to have less "stuff".
I encourge you all to try any or all of these and see what you think. I promise you, if I can do it, you can too.
For those of you who know me, you know I am NOT crafty. I love the idea of being crafty, but all of my "projects" could pass for something one of my kids did.
So I ignored this type of info for a while.
Until I started realizing how much cheaper it'd also be. Green and Frugal sounds good to me. And to be completely honest, the fact that these cleaners are so cheap are what drew me in the most...the fact they are environmnetally friendly is just a bonus.
So far I have made:
my own all purpose cleaner from vinegar and water...it works on everything....in the kitchen, on glass, etc.
Shower cleaner from lemon juice...it works great!
Toilet bowl cleaner from straight vinegar
A sink cleaner in place of soft scrub just using baking soda. It's an abrasive, so it works well, plus it deodorizes
Laundry detergent! Yes, laudnry detergent! This one made me nervous, but I made it and used it and really liked it. It's just a bar of Fels Naptha Soap (I found it at Meijer with the other soaps) grated up with a cheese grater, a cup of washing soda and a cup of borax. That's it. Just shook them together (Myles did that for me) and I use two tablespoons per load.
Fabric softener--just add some vinegar to a downy ball. It also helps whiten the whites.
I can't tell you how nice it is to save so much money on all of those household cleaners, plus just to have less bottles to store. Since we're downsizing, this is just one more way to have less "stuff".
I encourge you all to try any or all of these and see what you think. I promise you, if I can do it, you can too.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
I don't even know what to title this
I haven't blogged in a while, but life has been busy. I'm not even sure where to start with everything.
1. Last Tuesday we took Derrick to the ER as he was in a lot of pain. I knew it had to be bad to ask to go to the hospital. Like most men he has to be feeling REALLY bad to do anything about it. Unfortnately he was sort of brushed off there with little more than a prescription for pain medicine.
2. On Thursday the pain was so bad he had to leave work, and he got into our family doctor. The family doctor got him in to see a specialist the same day, and by friday he was having surgery. It's been sort of a rough recovery for him, but he's feeling a little better and plans on returning to work tomorrow.
3. My brother and SIL were sweet enough to take the kids for us overnight, even though I called them VERY last minute as things were running late and asked them for help. They came to our rescue and the kids ended up having a BLAST!!
3. We have 5 DAYS until we move! I'm getting excited. We have some more packing/cleaning to do, but we're getting close. I'm looking forward to seeing how everything looks once we get it all set up.
4. I forgot how much there is to do when you move. It's crazy how many people we have to notify about our change of address. You forgot how many companies you do business with until you have to call them all.
I think that's about it for now! It doesn't seem like much to type it all out, but I can assure you it's been a lot to actually live. :)
1. Last Tuesday we took Derrick to the ER as he was in a lot of pain. I knew it had to be bad to ask to go to the hospital. Like most men he has to be feeling REALLY bad to do anything about it. Unfortnately he was sort of brushed off there with little more than a prescription for pain medicine.
2. On Thursday the pain was so bad he had to leave work, and he got into our family doctor. The family doctor got him in to see a specialist the same day, and by friday he was having surgery. It's been sort of a rough recovery for him, but he's feeling a little better and plans on returning to work tomorrow.
3. My brother and SIL were sweet enough to take the kids for us overnight, even though I called them VERY last minute as things were running late and asked them for help. They came to our rescue and the kids ended up having a BLAST!!
3. We have 5 DAYS until we move! I'm getting excited. We have some more packing/cleaning to do, but we're getting close. I'm looking forward to seeing how everything looks once we get it all set up.
4. I forgot how much there is to do when you move. It's crazy how many people we have to notify about our change of address. You forgot how many companies you do business with until you have to call them all.
I think that's about it for now! It doesn't seem like much to type it all out, but I can assure you it's been a lot to actually live. :)
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
We have a graduate!
Last night was Myles' preschool graduation. When they all did the processional to It's A Small World Afterall, my chin was quivering. It was so darn cute.
Unfortunately I did not get very good quality pictures, but this is Gina waiting for Myles (she kept saying "Myles at??" and then when I asked Gina for a kiss, Myles singing with his class, and him getting his diploma.
We went for icecream afterwards and had a great night. Unfortunately it was a much later night then he was used to, so it was a rough morning. Hopefully he'll get a nap in today to rest up.
He's so excited that now he "has the summer off and then starts Kindergarten!!"
Unfortunately I did not get very good quality pictures, but this is Gina waiting for Myles (she kept saying "Myles at??" and then when I asked Gina for a kiss, Myles singing with his class, and him getting his diploma.
We went for icecream afterwards and had a great night. Unfortunately it was a much later night then he was used to, so it was a rough morning. Hopefully he'll get a nap in today to rest up.
He's so excited that now he "has the summer off and then starts Kindergarten!!"
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Less than 2 weeks
I can't believe we move in less than 2 weeks. Two Weeks.
It was the end of April last year when Derrick lost his job, and shortly after that when we decided to sell the house. A decision I thought we'd never have to make, but definitely one I didn't think I would be ABLE to make. For so long I buried my head and tried to make it work.
This past year has been full of ups and downs, but I think I can safely say I've learned and grown more in this past year than any other so far. I've had to let go of so many fears, and by doing so I've seen everything I was so afraid wouldn't happen HAPPEN.
A year ago I was having lunch with my SIL, Kim, and I was telling her all the reasons why we couldn't move, why our house wouldn't sell, why we couldn't rent an apartment, how things would never work out for us, etc etc.
Do you know what she said? Something I'll never forget.
Don't believe the lies the devil tells you.
It took me by surprise, and I don't think I've ever been the same. In hind sight I see so many things we coulda, shoulds, woulda done had it not been for fear, but I can't focus on that. What I can focus on is that I now feel stronger and more brave and confident. I know that I am able to do so much more than I thought. And more importantly, I know that with God all things are possible.
So, in just over a year we have almost already reached a point where we can look back and reflect on how much we have accomplished and how much has changed.
I know while living in the apartment may not be ideal, it is something some people in this world could only dream of having. And for us? For us it's just a stepping stone. A chance to regroup, refocus and make even more changes.
There were times this past year I thought the anxiety would eat me up. I had no idea how things would work out. I knew they would, somehow, but it was torture to not know how.
Now, Derrick has a great job that he loves, we have sold our house (!!!), found a great apartment to live in, and have grown in our faith. And I think that alone makes us SO BLESSED.
And this past year has taught me that I am capable of getting through storms and coming out on the other side stronger. I will no longer allow fear and anxiety hold me back from accomplishing something. I am willing to take 1 step back to take 2 steps forward.
It was the end of April last year when Derrick lost his job, and shortly after that when we decided to sell the house. A decision I thought we'd never have to make, but definitely one I didn't think I would be ABLE to make. For so long I buried my head and tried to make it work.
This past year has been full of ups and downs, but I think I can safely say I've learned and grown more in this past year than any other so far. I've had to let go of so many fears, and by doing so I've seen everything I was so afraid wouldn't happen HAPPEN.
A year ago I was having lunch with my SIL, Kim, and I was telling her all the reasons why we couldn't move, why our house wouldn't sell, why we couldn't rent an apartment, how things would never work out for us, etc etc.
Do you know what she said? Something I'll never forget.
Don't believe the lies the devil tells you.
It took me by surprise, and I don't think I've ever been the same. In hind sight I see so many things we coulda, shoulds, woulda done had it not been for fear, but I can't focus on that. What I can focus on is that I now feel stronger and more brave and confident. I know that I am able to do so much more than I thought. And more importantly, I know that with God all things are possible.
So, in just over a year we have almost already reached a point where we can look back and reflect on how much we have accomplished and how much has changed.
I know while living in the apartment may not be ideal, it is something some people in this world could only dream of having. And for us? For us it's just a stepping stone. A chance to regroup, refocus and make even more changes.
There were times this past year I thought the anxiety would eat me up. I had no idea how things would work out. I knew they would, somehow, but it was torture to not know how.
Now, Derrick has a great job that he loves, we have sold our house (!!!), found a great apartment to live in, and have grown in our faith. And I think that alone makes us SO BLESSED.
And this past year has taught me that I am capable of getting through storms and coming out on the other side stronger. I will no longer allow fear and anxiety hold me back from accomplishing something. I am willing to take 1 step back to take 2 steps forward.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Be Present
That was the topic on another blog I read today and it has hit home.
Sadly, on this blog, she was telling about how she lost her friend, and mother to two young children suddenly and unexpectedly. And ironically, they had just talked about "what if" this happened.
As mom's we feel like there are so many things only we know or only we can do right. Would he know where this is...how to do that?
I've had those same conversations with friends before. A girl I went to highschool with died a couple of years ago just after the birth of her first child. I was so saddened by that and affected deeply as I had also just had Myles. It made me wonder what would happen if something happened to me suddenly.
Yet, somehow, too often, we still get caught up in the small things.
Today I have been in full on "Ally mode". We only have two weeks until we move and my head is swirling with so many, pretty irrelevant thoughts.
Thoughts about what to put where, what we still need to get rid of, what we still need to get, etc.
While it's so common for all of us to do that (okay, so maybe me more often than most), the downside is we forget to Be Present in our lives.
We're so busy planning our lives we forget to live them.
I'd hate for my kids to remember me cleaning or being on the computer or something else totally random. I want them to remember me being present. It's so hard to do.
Our time is so limited and our kids grow so fast. It's something we all know but push aside too often.
As someone that struggles wtih anxiety I have to constantly remind myself to quit worrying, quit planning, and just be. JUST BE.
So that is my hope for all of you this weekend. That you enjoy what ever it is you're doing fully and live with no regrets.
Sadly, on this blog, she was telling about how she lost her friend, and mother to two young children suddenly and unexpectedly. And ironically, they had just talked about "what if" this happened.
As mom's we feel like there are so many things only we know or only we can do right. Would he know where this is...how to do that?
I've had those same conversations with friends before. A girl I went to highschool with died a couple of years ago just after the birth of her first child. I was so saddened by that and affected deeply as I had also just had Myles. It made me wonder what would happen if something happened to me suddenly.
Yet, somehow, too often, we still get caught up in the small things.
Today I have been in full on "Ally mode". We only have two weeks until we move and my head is swirling with so many, pretty irrelevant thoughts.
Thoughts about what to put where, what we still need to get rid of, what we still need to get, etc.
While it's so common for all of us to do that (okay, so maybe me more often than most), the downside is we forget to Be Present in our lives.
We're so busy planning our lives we forget to live them.
I'd hate for my kids to remember me cleaning or being on the computer or something else totally random. I want them to remember me being present. It's so hard to do.
Our time is so limited and our kids grow so fast. It's something we all know but push aside too often.
As someone that struggles wtih anxiety I have to constantly remind myself to quit worrying, quit planning, and just be. JUST BE.
So that is my hope for all of you this weekend. That you enjoy what ever it is you're doing fully and live with no regrets.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
How much do I love this?!
Myles brought home a preschool journal on Tuesday and it's the cutest keepsake ever. I love looking through it, and he does too. I know it'll be something I hold onto forever.
Here's the cover:
The first page:
A handprint jellyfish:
One of the pictures they included:
Love this one. Although I would like to clarify for the record this was not our Thanksgiving dinner. Sure would have been simpler though. lol
And I guess if he's going to be demanding with Santa he's at least going to use his manners and add a please.
A self portrait. Isn't he cute?
And if this doesn't make you smile I don't know what will.
And mom, as an FYI, there is a picture of the two of you from the Mom and Me Tea included in it as well.
I can't believe my baby boy is getting ready to start Kindergarten.
Here's the cover:
The first page:
A handprint jellyfish:
One of the pictures they included:
Love this one. Although I would like to clarify for the record this was not our Thanksgiving dinner. Sure would have been simpler though. lol
And I guess if he's going to be demanding with Santa he's at least going to use his manners and add a please.
A self portrait. Isn't he cute?
And if this doesn't make you smile I don't know what will.
And mom, as an FYI, there is a picture of the two of you from the Mom and Me Tea included in it as well.
I can't believe my baby boy is getting ready to start Kindergarten.
A great day for a bike ride
It was a beautiful spring day here yesterday, and as soon as we got home, we all went outside to enjoy the weather.
If you only knew what a fiasco it was to get this bike for Myles. Bottom line, this is the, I believe, fourth one. We had to return a couple for various reasons....one wasn't made to add training wheels too, the other had an issue with the chaing guard....you get the idea.
It was so hard to find a bike to fit him as it's his first bike and he needs training wheels, but he's so tall for his age. I don't think this one will last more than just this year, but for the price, I guess that's okay.
So baby girl gets the hand me down Harley Big Wheel. I think she looks so cute in her pink outfit and princess shoes on the boy bike. Fortunately she's just happy to be riding "Myles bike" and doesn't care about having all girly stuff.
And yes, he's in the street. It's just easier for him than the sidewalk and we live on a pretty quiet street.
If you only knew what a fiasco it was to get this bike for Myles. Bottom line, this is the, I believe, fourth one. We had to return a couple for various reasons....one wasn't made to add training wheels too, the other had an issue with the chaing guard....you get the idea.
It was so hard to find a bike to fit him as it's his first bike and he needs training wheels, but he's so tall for his age. I don't think this one will last more than just this year, but for the price, I guess that's okay.
So baby girl gets the hand me down Harley Big Wheel. I think she looks so cute in her pink outfit and princess shoes on the boy bike. Fortunately she's just happy to be riding "Myles bike" and doesn't care about having all girly stuff.
And yes, he's in the street. It's just easier for him than the sidewalk and we live on a pretty quiet street.
Friday, May 8, 2009
A visit with G-ma
My mom was in town this past week to run a local race and to spend time with friends and family. We enjoyed spending time with her. On Monday we decided to pack a picnic lunch and take it to the park. Essentially that led to the adults eating a cheese sandwich and a pb&j sandwich on the fly while the kids decided they'd rather play than eat.
Here are a few pics of them.
Mom, you have to forgive me for the third one, but it's just too priceless not to include. I love it.
Myles on the merry-go-round
G-ma and Gina getting ready to go down the slide
(Sorry mom) Look at Gina's expression. SO cute.
Let's do it again!!
Here are a few pics of them.
Mom, you have to forgive me for the third one, but it's just too priceless not to include. I love it.
Myles on the merry-go-round
G-ma and Gina getting ready to go down the slide
(Sorry mom) Look at Gina's expression. SO cute.
Let's do it again!!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Celebrate!
I have that song going through my head...."celebrate good times, come on!!"
Guess who just sold their house?!
Yes we did!!
Barring any unforseen happenings, it's a done deal. It's worked out as a win/win for everyone, given all of the crazy circumstances.
This has been such a roller coaster, and I'm still trying to be slightly cautious and "expect the unexpected", but according to our agent it's as good as done. It the ideal outcome for a not-ideal situation, and I'm just so happy to have reached this day.
It's the beginning of a new chapter!
Guess who just sold their house?!
Yes we did!!
Barring any unforseen happenings, it's a done deal. It's worked out as a win/win for everyone, given all of the crazy circumstances.
This has been such a roller coaster, and I'm still trying to be slightly cautious and "expect the unexpected", but according to our agent it's as good as done. It the ideal outcome for a not-ideal situation, and I'm just so happy to have reached this day.
It's the beginning of a new chapter!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Our week in review
This has been a fun week.
Derrick got home from his TWO WEEK long business trip on Monday!
As of Wednesday, we are under contract on the house again!! It's actually the same guy that had an offer in the first time, but he had to get a different type of loan. I'm hoping this works out. We'll see.
My mom, G-ma, came into town on Thursday and we're looking forward to spending time with her.
Shortly after arriving in town she went to Myles' school for a Mom and Me Tea they were having. Apparently he had juice out of a tea cup. So cute. They had also made cookies for us, and my mom was able to bring me home a cookie and a brownie. Yum. They had also decorated a glass votive holder for us with stickers and he was so proud of it.
I was also able to take mom by our new apartment so she was able to see it. I was glad I could share it with her. It was a pretty crazy evening though as I don't get off work until 5 and we had to be there by 5:45. And, we had people at the house doing some stuff for the selling process and I had to get the dogs put away in our basement. Phew. I think we were all worn out (well, the adults were anyway haha), but we made it. The kids love the apartment. I hope they still feel that way after we move in.
I've also committed to being healthy this week. I have been eating better and even bought Jillian Michael's (The trainer from Biggest Loser) work out vide, the 30 Day Shred.
I've actually already lost 3 lbs since Tuesday. Of course it's easier to lose weight at the beginning when you have a lot to lose.
As a matter of fact, I just turned down a Klondike Bar offered to me at work. Are you so proud? That's definitely a first.
So, we've had a good but busy week. I'm looking forward to the first weekend with daddy home in a couple of weeks, and some girl time with my mom. My mind has been in decoration mode after reading some fun blogs, so I'm hoping to find a few things for the apartment as well.
What do you have planned for the weekend?
Derrick got home from his TWO WEEK long business trip on Monday!
As of Wednesday, we are under contract on the house again!! It's actually the same guy that had an offer in the first time, but he had to get a different type of loan. I'm hoping this works out. We'll see.
My mom, G-ma, came into town on Thursday and we're looking forward to spending time with her.
Shortly after arriving in town she went to Myles' school for a Mom and Me Tea they were having. Apparently he had juice out of a tea cup. So cute. They had also made cookies for us, and my mom was able to bring me home a cookie and a brownie. Yum. They had also decorated a glass votive holder for us with stickers and he was so proud of it.
I was also able to take mom by our new apartment so she was able to see it. I was glad I could share it with her. It was a pretty crazy evening though as I don't get off work until 5 and we had to be there by 5:45. And, we had people at the house doing some stuff for the selling process and I had to get the dogs put away in our basement. Phew. I think we were all worn out (well, the adults were anyway haha), but we made it. The kids love the apartment. I hope they still feel that way after we move in.
I've also committed to being healthy this week. I have been eating better and even bought Jillian Michael's (The trainer from Biggest Loser) work out vide, the 30 Day Shred.
I've actually already lost 3 lbs since Tuesday. Of course it's easier to lose weight at the beginning when you have a lot to lose.
As a matter of fact, I just turned down a Klondike Bar offered to me at work. Are you so proud? That's definitely a first.
So, we've had a good but busy week. I'm looking forward to the first weekend with daddy home in a couple of weeks, and some girl time with my mom. My mind has been in decoration mode after reading some fun blogs, so I'm hoping to find a few things for the apartment as well.
What do you have planned for the weekend?
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
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