"Don't wait to make your son a great man - make him a great boy."
Our oldest child, Brandon turned 14 last week. Wow! I've been a mom for over 14 years. Amazing. What did I even do before having children?
Brandon was born 9 months 3 weeks after our wedding date. We knew we wanted to have children - it was still a little surprising how quickly we were blessed. We got married, moved into our new apartment in another state the next day, spent a few days getting comfy then went on our Honeymoon to DisneyWorld. When we returned to our new home I started a new job. I worked as a nanny. This worked out well because I found out I was pregnant a couple weeks after starting and I was able to continue working while pregnant and then I just brought Brandon with me after he was born.
Brandon was born before we went with Biblical names. We named him after the actor Brandon Lee. (We saw him in The Crow - he died while filming it.) Our son's middle name is Thomas after his daddy. Soon after he was born, I heard Pamela Anderson named her son Brandon Thomas too. He was named after Brandon Lee and his daddy, Tommy. Probably the only thing I have in common with Pamela Anderson :o)
I was so happy and excited throughout my whole pregnancy with Brandon. Everything went smoothly. The only big change was moving one floor up in the apartment building Tom and I lived in. We had a one bedroom and we moved into a two bedroom. We moved from the 2nd floor to the 3rd. The real difficulty was the stairs - and no laundry. Well, there was a small laundry room, but after we found a dead rat in the dryer - we started spending our Friday nights at the laundromat. Carrying a stroller, a baby, and groceries up the stairs was kind of a pain. Taking our dog Justin outside every day and night wasn't fun either, but I love thinking about where we were when we first started together as a married couple - and parents.
Tom was an airplane mechanic when we first got married. He later found a job as a locomotive mechanic, and then as a forklift mechanic. I graduated from college 2 weeks before our wedding with a minor in Fashion (my first major) and a major in Child and Family Services. Before college I was a nanny and after our wedding and moving I went back to being a nanny.
To celebrate my job, Tom and I bought season tickets to Musicals at a new place called Rosemont Theater. We would be able to see all of the shows that season before our baby was due. I still remember the green velvety maternity dress I bought to wear to the last couple shows.
Moving to a new state was hard for me. I missed my parents and my friends back home. I was so thrilled when I found out I was pregnant. I already loved taking care of other people's children - now I was going to have my own child to love and care for.
When labor started, it was late at night. Tom and I were in bed and I started feeling what I thought were contractions. We called the hospital and were told to come in. I think it was around 1:30 am that I called my parents to tell them. I thought I'd be having our baby within a few hours. Nope. Labor was long and painful. I had a midwife, we were trying to go without an epidural. I went for many hours, but then I got so tired I just couldn't keep myself under control with the pain. I finally got an epidural and was able to rest a little bit before meeting our first son. 23+ hours later, Brandon was born. I remember holding him, being totally exhausted, and swearing never to have another child. Ha! I must have been crossing my fingers. My parents, my oldest sister and her husband, and my oldest brother were in the waiting room. They came in to meet Brandon. He was a very healthy, adorable baby boy. I fell in love with him immediately. Brandon and I had a tight bond. I took him everywhere with me! And he was beautiful. We even had a modeling agency offer him a job, but they told us we'd have to sign a 5 year contract and be able to be downtown any day and any time. We were young and couldn't afford not to have our "steady" jobs. We wouldn't be able to drop everything and go downtown. Plus, I didn't want to commit to something for 5 years. What if Brandon didn't like it? What if we didn't like it?
Brandon. "Bobo." He is amazing. He is a very kind-hearted boy. Very spirited. Very creative. He has an incredible artistic talent. His drawings amaze me! And he has such a positive attitude about his Tourettes. He likes to teach others about it and doesn't let it get in his way. I am so proud to be his mother and to have him as my son. I have enjoyed watching him grow. I used to hold this little boy on my lap - and now he stands taller than me. We have a wonderful relationship and hope we always do. I know we will. Brandon is very special to me.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Our Oldest Daughter
"Daughters are like flowers, they fill the world with Beauty."
This week we celebrated the birth of our first daughter, Rachel Ann. Ray-Ray turned 7 on Tuesday. We sang to her in the morning with a candle in her doughnut and gave her her present. She wanted a Nintendo DSi like her brothers. Our "deal" is to either pick a "bigger" present and just celebrate with family - or pick a less expensive gift and have a party with friends. She chose the gift. (We are going to have our priest over for dinner this Saturday so I told her we will make a birthday cake for that evening.) When Tom got home from work, he brought Rachel 7 pink roses. She loves getting her birthday roses from Daddy. Tom gets our girls roses on their birthdays - 1 for each year.
Noah was only 6 months old when I told Tom I thought I was pregnant with our 4th child. I just had this feeling. He said there was no way. So while I was at the store I bought the cheaper store brand. I went home and took the first of two tests. At first - nothing. 10 minutes later, I looked again and there was a positive sign. I read the directions and it said there might be a false sign after 10 minutes. Hmmm. I went to the front door and called to Tom to stop mowing the lawn for a moment. I had something to show him. Tom was very surprised to see the test and the positive sign on it. He smiled and still insisted there was no way. I told him how it didn't change until 10 minutes after so I was going to do the 2nd test in the box. Again, nothing at first, but 10 minutes later - a positive sign. Well...the test had a money back guarantee. The next morning on the way to the zoo, we stopped by the store I had bought the test from. I carried my 6 month old in with me. I went up to the customer service desk and showed them the box from their store brand test. Then I explained how both tests in the box didn't change until after 10 minutes. I pointed out the guarantee on the box - told her the results were unclear and I REALLY needed to know - while showing off Noah to her. She laughed and gave me back my money which I immediately used to purchase a more trusted brand of pregnancy test. Noah and I went back to the car where Tom and our 2 oldest sons were waiting. We started on our way to the zoo and I told Tom I couldn't wait to find out. He pulled into a gas station and I ran in to use the restroom. About 3 minutes later I came out, smiled at Tom, gave him a nod, and we were off to the zoo :o)
When we went to the doctor a few weeks later and had an ultrasound done to see how far along we were - we figured out we got pregnant on Tom's birthday. I remember Tom looked at me and said, "I wonder if God has given me a daughter for my birthday."
With our first 3 children, we found out while pregnant that we were having boys. This time, we decided not to find out. It was kind of fun not knowing. When we were in the delivery room, I really expected another little boy. Tom and I had our friend Nancy with us. (She had been with us at Noah's birth too.) I pushed and when the baby's head came out I heard "Looks like a boy!" And I remember thinking - Yes, that is what I thought. Then another push and I heard "It's a girl!" I will always remember hearing those words for the first time. I felt so much joy at that moment. Of course, I would have loved another son, but I had hoped that someday I would have a daughter too. Plus, we now knew that Tom did get a daughter for his birthday :o)
Rachel Ann certainly has been a wonderful and beautiful gift. It was a little scary to think of having a newborn and a 15 month old at the same time, but Noah loved Rachel right from the start. Brandon and Ethan were very excited to have a little sister too. Noah called Rachel "Baby" for the first 2 years. It was precious. Now being 1 year apart in school, they are very close. Rachel will tell me she saw Noah at school and that she hugged him in the hallway. Noah then says - yeah, and it was embarrassing. But I know he secretly loves it. Rachel sends him notes (they have a "post office" at their school) that say I love you Noah. I miss you Noah. And a couple weeks ago Noah sent Rachel one for the first time. His note said I miss you Rachel and I love you. I really hope and pray that all of our children always stay close. Family is so important. It is such a blessing to have each other.
This week we celebrated the birth of our first daughter, Rachel Ann. Ray-Ray turned 7 on Tuesday. We sang to her in the morning with a candle in her doughnut and gave her her present. She wanted a Nintendo DSi like her brothers. Our "deal" is to either pick a "bigger" present and just celebrate with family - or pick a less expensive gift and have a party with friends. She chose the gift. (We are going to have our priest over for dinner this Saturday so I told her we will make a birthday cake for that evening.) When Tom got home from work, he brought Rachel 7 pink roses. She loves getting her birthday roses from Daddy. Tom gets our girls roses on their birthdays - 1 for each year.
Noah was only 6 months old when I told Tom I thought I was pregnant with our 4th child. I just had this feeling. He said there was no way. So while I was at the store I bought the cheaper store brand. I went home and took the first of two tests. At first - nothing. 10 minutes later, I looked again and there was a positive sign. I read the directions and it said there might be a false sign after 10 minutes. Hmmm. I went to the front door and called to Tom to stop mowing the lawn for a moment. I had something to show him. Tom was very surprised to see the test and the positive sign on it. He smiled and still insisted there was no way. I told him how it didn't change until 10 minutes after so I was going to do the 2nd test in the box. Again, nothing at first, but 10 minutes later - a positive sign. Well...the test had a money back guarantee. The next morning on the way to the zoo, we stopped by the store I had bought the test from. I carried my 6 month old in with me. I went up to the customer service desk and showed them the box from their store brand test. Then I explained how both tests in the box didn't change until after 10 minutes. I pointed out the guarantee on the box - told her the results were unclear and I REALLY needed to know - while showing off Noah to her. She laughed and gave me back my money which I immediately used to purchase a more trusted brand of pregnancy test. Noah and I went back to the car where Tom and our 2 oldest sons were waiting. We started on our way to the zoo and I told Tom I couldn't wait to find out. He pulled into a gas station and I ran in to use the restroom. About 3 minutes later I came out, smiled at Tom, gave him a nod, and we were off to the zoo :o)
When we went to the doctor a few weeks later and had an ultrasound done to see how far along we were - we figured out we got pregnant on Tom's birthday. I remember Tom looked at me and said, "I wonder if God has given me a daughter for my birthday."
With our first 3 children, we found out while pregnant that we were having boys. This time, we decided not to find out. It was kind of fun not knowing. When we were in the delivery room, I really expected another little boy. Tom and I had our friend Nancy with us. (She had been with us at Noah's birth too.) I pushed and when the baby's head came out I heard "Looks like a boy!" And I remember thinking - Yes, that is what I thought. Then another push and I heard "It's a girl!" I will always remember hearing those words for the first time. I felt so much joy at that moment. Of course, I would have loved another son, but I had hoped that someday I would have a daughter too. Plus, we now knew that Tom did get a daughter for his birthday :o)
Rachel Ann certainly has been a wonderful and beautiful gift. It was a little scary to think of having a newborn and a 15 month old at the same time, but Noah loved Rachel right from the start. Brandon and Ethan were very excited to have a little sister too. Noah called Rachel "Baby" for the first 2 years. It was precious. Now being 1 year apart in school, they are very close. Rachel will tell me she saw Noah at school and that she hugged him in the hallway. Noah then says - yeah, and it was embarrassing. But I know he secretly loves it. Rachel sends him notes (they have a "post office" at their school) that say I love you Noah. I miss you Noah. And a couple weeks ago Noah sent Rachel one for the first time. His note said I miss you Rachel and I love you. I really hope and pray that all of our children always stay close. Family is so important. It is such a blessing to have each other.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Almost Spring
"No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow."
Spring is so close! I can't wait for warmer weather. I love sitting outside with my neighbor-friends, letting our kids run around and play, and not having to bundle everyone up - especially that! Bicycles, skateboards, and kiddie pools. I am really looking forward to having Jacob outside in the fresh air and sunshine with his little t-shirts on and his toes in the grass.
Jacob started cereal and bananas! Woo Hoo! He loves it - I knew he would. I got him a sippy cup too. I put juicey in it this morning and handed it to him on the floor. He grabbed the cup, rolled onto his back, and started drinking. He's so smart :o)
Tommy took last week off of work to do some work around our home. He took the carpet out of the 2 bathrooms upstairs. I never really understood carpet in a bathroom. We picked out some tile and Tommy's been working really hard to put it in. It looks beautiful. That man is very talented! Now we're going to paint our bathroom and bedroom - we've been in our home for over 8 years and our room has never been painted. We just got curtains up in it last year. We keep having to redo our children's rooms so we haven't had time for ours. I am looking forward to it all being done. I'm tired of sharing one shower and one toilet with 8 people! (Jacob wears diapers and uses the sink for his bath.) Tom is also working on putting trim around our back sliding door. It's only been around 17 months since he replaced the door. There is a lot of paint to touch up around here too.
On Tom's last day off, he took the boys to the movies. Brandon had been wanting to go see The Lightning Thief. It's been out for awhile, so there were only 3 other people in the theater. With Brandon's tics really "acting up" lately, this was a good thing. He could enjoy the movie and not worry about anyone being right next to him that would be bothered by his tics. Our girls and I (and Jakey) stayed home and played around with making hair ribbons and tutus. It was fun. (Maybe not so much for Jakey.) I just need a better work area. Maybe someday.
Tom and I also went for our annual physicals. So far so good. I had one test come back questionable so they're going to repeat it in 6 weeks. Hopefully everything is fine. I certainly can't let myself worry about it. I'll go crazy. I went to EA last night and prayed about it. That's really all I can do right now.
Jakey had his 6 month pictures done. He did really well. He loved the lady photographer's bracelet. He got very excited whenever he saw it and especially happy when she would get close enough for him to grab it. I spent quite a bit on these pictures - too many good ones. He's adorable.
I have two little ones napping, one watching a movie, one that just got home, and three that will be getting home soon. I need to get back to the laundry. I let myself slip a little and Ethan couldn't find any pants this morning. By the time I get laundry done around here and put away, the hampers are over-flowing with dirty clothes again. I'm not sure how to solve this problem. Another reason why it'll be nice to have warmer weather back. Spring dresses and t-shirts with shorts. Even better - in the summer, our children hang out in their jammies and swimsuits.
Spring is so close! I can't wait for warmer weather. I love sitting outside with my neighbor-friends, letting our kids run around and play, and not having to bundle everyone up - especially that! Bicycles, skateboards, and kiddie pools. I am really looking forward to having Jacob outside in the fresh air and sunshine with his little t-shirts on and his toes in the grass.
Jacob started cereal and bananas! Woo Hoo! He loves it - I knew he would. I got him a sippy cup too. I put juicey in it this morning and handed it to him on the floor. He grabbed the cup, rolled onto his back, and started drinking. He's so smart :o)
Tommy took last week off of work to do some work around our home. He took the carpet out of the 2 bathrooms upstairs. I never really understood carpet in a bathroom. We picked out some tile and Tommy's been working really hard to put it in. It looks beautiful. That man is very talented! Now we're going to paint our bathroom and bedroom - we've been in our home for over 8 years and our room has never been painted. We just got curtains up in it last year. We keep having to redo our children's rooms so we haven't had time for ours. I am looking forward to it all being done. I'm tired of sharing one shower and one toilet with 8 people! (Jacob wears diapers and uses the sink for his bath.) Tom is also working on putting trim around our back sliding door. It's only been around 17 months since he replaced the door. There is a lot of paint to touch up around here too.
On Tom's last day off, he took the boys to the movies. Brandon had been wanting to go see The Lightning Thief. It's been out for awhile, so there were only 3 other people in the theater. With Brandon's tics really "acting up" lately, this was a good thing. He could enjoy the movie and not worry about anyone being right next to him that would be bothered by his tics. Our girls and I (and Jakey) stayed home and played around with making hair ribbons and tutus. It was fun. (Maybe not so much for Jakey.) I just need a better work area. Maybe someday.
Tom and I also went for our annual physicals. So far so good. I had one test come back questionable so they're going to repeat it in 6 weeks. Hopefully everything is fine. I certainly can't let myself worry about it. I'll go crazy. I went to EA last night and prayed about it. That's really all I can do right now.
Jakey had his 6 month pictures done. He did really well. He loved the lady photographer's bracelet. He got very excited whenever he saw it and especially happy when she would get close enough for him to grab it. I spent quite a bit on these pictures - too many good ones. He's adorable.
I have two little ones napping, one watching a movie, one that just got home, and three that will be getting home soon. I need to get back to the laundry. I let myself slip a little and Ethan couldn't find any pants this morning. By the time I get laundry done around here and put away, the hampers are over-flowing with dirty clothes again. I'm not sure how to solve this problem. Another reason why it'll be nice to have warmer weather back. Spring dresses and t-shirts with shorts. Even better - in the summer, our children hang out in their jammies and swimsuits.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Church
"I will go with you, I will give you rest, everything will be fine for you."
On Monday I went to Eucharistic Adoration. I love going to my church. It is so beautiful and so welcoming. I feel a lot of comfort when I am there. For EA, I usually sit, pray, and cry. It's a good cry. There was a speaker once at our church who talked about imagining Jesus sitting next to you when you pray. He had us close our eyes and picture Jesus there with us. I did. It changed the way I feel when I am praying. Instead of focusing above me, I see Jesus sitting next to me, bowing his head, and just listening.
Wednesday was Ash Wednesday. Again I went to my church. Tom went straight from work - our children and I met him there. It was crowded! I wanted to leave our home early, but my children weren't going to let that happen. On our way to church, which is right across the street, we sat in a line of cars. At first, I felt myself get a little frustrated -- then I thought, no this is good. So many people were going to mass and getting their ashes. This was a good thing. I'm sure many choose to skip. And I hoped Tom was inside saving an entire pew for us - though, that's never a fun thing to do. He was.
One thing we noticed during mass, while everyone was going up for ashes and then communion, our son E, was getting a lot of waves and smiles from girls he knows. Hmmm...We were all kind of teasing him about it. He just smiled. Sweet.
Friday night Tom and I got together with our Couples Bible Study. We took Jacob (6 months old!)while Brandon babysat the rest of our children. This was a social gathering. Lots of fun. We ate, we drank, we discussed a few issues, and then it was men vs women in Pictionary! So much fun, lots of laughing. I had a bit of a flashback. I used to go with my parents to their CFM meetings when I was a child. And here I was at my own adult church-group meeting. Who would have thought?
Today I went to church again. It was for a Womens Enrichment Day. It was really nice. I was surrounded by many friends. Great witnesses were shared. Reconciliation was offered. Yummy food was served. It was a wonderful day focused on me, my faith, and my relationship with God. My friend gave one of the witnesses. (Great job honey!) She had me design a magnet to be passed out. I put a few together and she chose one that had a photo on it that I took and the quote at the beginning of this blog. It's something I love to do and I was so touched she asked me to do it for her. I hope to do it some more for others someday.
This week my husband is taking a week off to help me take care of a few things around our home. Lots to do around here. Our back door has been waiting for trim for 1 and 1/2 years! I am also having a friend over for brunch. She is the mother of Carter that I have mentioned before. Carter's little brother is going to come over and meet me and a couple of my children, while hopefully finding comfort in my home.
I was thinking of a time when Brandon was 4 years old. We were at a preschool PTA family get-together. There was a little girl there that we didn't know. She had cancer and had no hair from the chemo. She was sitting all by herself, looking sadly at all the other kids running around playing. She got a lot of stares, but no invites to come play. Then Brandon saw her. He approached her. The first thing he did was ask her why she didn't have hair. She explained to him why and Brandon replied with "Oh. Wanna play?" She smiled and the two of them were inseparable the rest of the evening. When it was time for Brandon's newest friend to leave, he came up to me. He asked me if I would mind giving him the bracelet he had made me at the craft table back. I said ok and handed it to him. He smiled, said thanks, and ran over to give this little girl the bracelet as a gift. Brandon has always been very kind.
All of my children would love to get together with Carter. I'm sure they will someday soon, especially once the weather is nice again. They are excited to have his little brother over. I always want our family and our home to be very welcoming and comfortable to others. You know, that is how I described my relationship with church and God today. I shared that I feel very welcomed when I walk into my (our) church and I feel much comfort when I am there praying. Church feels like home.
On Monday I went to Eucharistic Adoration. I love going to my church. It is so beautiful and so welcoming. I feel a lot of comfort when I am there. For EA, I usually sit, pray, and cry. It's a good cry. There was a speaker once at our church who talked about imagining Jesus sitting next to you when you pray. He had us close our eyes and picture Jesus there with us. I did. It changed the way I feel when I am praying. Instead of focusing above me, I see Jesus sitting next to me, bowing his head, and just listening.
Wednesday was Ash Wednesday. Again I went to my church. Tom went straight from work - our children and I met him there. It was crowded! I wanted to leave our home early, but my children weren't going to let that happen. On our way to church, which is right across the street, we sat in a line of cars. At first, I felt myself get a little frustrated -- then I thought, no this is good. So many people were going to mass and getting their ashes. This was a good thing. I'm sure many choose to skip. And I hoped Tom was inside saving an entire pew for us - though, that's never a fun thing to do. He was.
One thing we noticed during mass, while everyone was going up for ashes and then communion, our son E, was getting a lot of waves and smiles from girls he knows. Hmmm...We were all kind of teasing him about it. He just smiled. Sweet.
Friday night Tom and I got together with our Couples Bible Study. We took Jacob (6 months old!)while Brandon babysat the rest of our children. This was a social gathering. Lots of fun. We ate, we drank, we discussed a few issues, and then it was men vs women in Pictionary! So much fun, lots of laughing. I had a bit of a flashback. I used to go with my parents to their CFM meetings when I was a child. And here I was at my own adult church-group meeting. Who would have thought?
Today I went to church again. It was for a Womens Enrichment Day. It was really nice. I was surrounded by many friends. Great witnesses were shared. Reconciliation was offered. Yummy food was served. It was a wonderful day focused on me, my faith, and my relationship with God. My friend gave one of the witnesses. (Great job honey!) She had me design a magnet to be passed out. I put a few together and she chose one that had a photo on it that I took and the quote at the beginning of this blog. It's something I love to do and I was so touched she asked me to do it for her. I hope to do it some more for others someday.
This week my husband is taking a week off to help me take care of a few things around our home. Lots to do around here. Our back door has been waiting for trim for 1 and 1/2 years! I am also having a friend over for brunch. She is the mother of Carter that I have mentioned before. Carter's little brother is going to come over and meet me and a couple of my children, while hopefully finding comfort in my home.
I was thinking of a time when Brandon was 4 years old. We were at a preschool PTA family get-together. There was a little girl there that we didn't know. She had cancer and had no hair from the chemo. She was sitting all by herself, looking sadly at all the other kids running around playing. She got a lot of stares, but no invites to come play. Then Brandon saw her. He approached her. The first thing he did was ask her why she didn't have hair. She explained to him why and Brandon replied with "Oh. Wanna play?" She smiled and the two of them were inseparable the rest of the evening. When it was time for Brandon's newest friend to leave, he came up to me. He asked me if I would mind giving him the bracelet he had made me at the craft table back. I said ok and handed it to him. He smiled, said thanks, and ran over to give this little girl the bracelet as a gift. Brandon has always been very kind.
All of my children would love to get together with Carter. I'm sure they will someday soon, especially once the weather is nice again. They are excited to have his little brother over. I always want our family and our home to be very welcoming and comfortable to others. You know, that is how I described my relationship with church and God today. I shared that I feel very welcomed when I walk into my (our) church and I feel much comfort when I am there praying. Church feels like home.
Monday, February 15, 2010
St. Valentines Day
"Let us always meet each other with a smile, for the smile is the beginning of love."
Been awhile since I've written.
Took a trip back home to Iowa for my friend, Kimmy's 40th birthday. Stayed one night at our other friend, Sue's home - Had fun chatting until 3:30 am. Spent the next night out to dinner, to a comedy club, then playing darts at a sports bar/grill. Got to the hotel at 3:00am. Crazy! Would love to do it all again! Some friendships are just so special. I love that we are able to still get together for special moments in our lives. (Sue, WT_?) Ha! Ha!
Watching the Olympics! Love the snowboarding and the skating!
Four day weekend for our children. Friday was spent just hanging out at home. When Tom got home from work, we did our usual Friday Family Night. Pizza and games this week. I enjoy our Friday nights. I love that our family enjoys spending the evening together. Not that every night goes smoothly, but we did start a new "punishment" with our children so we can get better. Tom and I really dislike when our children don't treat each other nicely. Now whenever they say or do something that hurts another, they need to go upstairs to the table in our loft and write an apology, then come down and read it aloud to the person they hurt. At first, they tried to get out of writing the letters - and reading them. I think reading them outloud was the hardest part. Now, they know it has to be done, and they do it. Hopefully we have fewer and fewer letters. (And if they're disrespectful to a parent, it's more of an essay! Paragraphs!)
Saturday I got up and went to a neighbor's, my friend's, home to help clean. I have written about sweet Carter before. I brought my second oldest, Ethan, with me. So there were 4 women and 3 children cleaning. I went straight to Carter's bedroom and started there. I loved being there to help. I pray for this wonderful family every day and I have been wishing there was something I can do to help them, and here was something I could do. Plus, I finally got to meet Dad. I read his beautifully written blogs and had wanted to meet him. Tomorrow it will be 1 year since they found out Carter was sick. There is a fundraiser celebration at a local restaurant. We are planning to go for dessert. (It's also Fat Tuesday!)
Sunday was Valentines Day! Jacob's first Valentines Day! (Our 18th!) It was a good day. An easy day. We went to church - I did Children's Liturgy. Then Tom and I spent the day at home playing with our children. Later that evening, Tom's mother came over and offered to watch our children so Tom and I could go out to dinner. It was nice to go out alone for a couple of hours as a couple. We enjoy being together. We're best friends.
Unfortunately my poor hubby woke up feeling miserable today. He felt so bad that he stayed home from work - that very rarely happens. I tried to just let him rest in bed all day. He did come downstairs for dinner, but is now back in bed. I made a nice dinner for everyone, so nice that our daughter Rachel forgot daddy was sick and thought that he had made dinner. Ok, I'm not a fan of cooking, but I do do it sometimes. I also went to our church for Eucharistic Adoration. I find it so powerful to be there knowing Jesus is present. I spend most of the time crying. With my husband sick and snow falling, I almost didn't go - but so glad I did. I really love going. I want to go and need to go. I feel I need to make time for God because I am always asking Him to make time for me. Lots of prayers come from me.
One funny thing that happened last week -- I went outside to get the mail. As I was walking up the driveway, I heard the front door shut. Then I heard Sarah, my 2 year old, laughing and yelling "I locked the door! I locked the door!" She sounded so happy and proud of herself. Thankfully the little Stinkerbell knew how to unlock the door too.
Everyone is off to bed except me. I have little Jakey on my lap, satisfied and asleep. He's been fighting a nasty cold, everyone in our home has. I'm pretty tired of hearing coughing and sneezing. I think we're almost through it. Poor Tommy almost got away without getting it. Hopefully he feels better in the morning.
I am off to bed with this little peanut.
Been awhile since I've written.
Took a trip back home to Iowa for my friend, Kimmy's 40th birthday. Stayed one night at our other friend, Sue's home - Had fun chatting until 3:30 am. Spent the next night out to dinner, to a comedy club, then playing darts at a sports bar/grill. Got to the hotel at 3:00am. Crazy! Would love to do it all again! Some friendships are just so special. I love that we are able to still get together for special moments in our lives. (Sue, WT_?) Ha! Ha!
Watching the Olympics! Love the snowboarding and the skating!
Four day weekend for our children. Friday was spent just hanging out at home. When Tom got home from work, we did our usual Friday Family Night. Pizza and games this week. I enjoy our Friday nights. I love that our family enjoys spending the evening together. Not that every night goes smoothly, but we did start a new "punishment" with our children so we can get better. Tom and I really dislike when our children don't treat each other nicely. Now whenever they say or do something that hurts another, they need to go upstairs to the table in our loft and write an apology, then come down and read it aloud to the person they hurt. At first, they tried to get out of writing the letters - and reading them. I think reading them outloud was the hardest part. Now, they know it has to be done, and they do it. Hopefully we have fewer and fewer letters. (And if they're disrespectful to a parent, it's more of an essay! Paragraphs!)
Saturday I got up and went to a neighbor's, my friend's, home to help clean. I have written about sweet Carter before. I brought my second oldest, Ethan, with me. So there were 4 women and 3 children cleaning. I went straight to Carter's bedroom and started there. I loved being there to help. I pray for this wonderful family every day and I have been wishing there was something I can do to help them, and here was something I could do. Plus, I finally got to meet Dad. I read his beautifully written blogs and had wanted to meet him. Tomorrow it will be 1 year since they found out Carter was sick. There is a fundraiser celebration at a local restaurant. We are planning to go for dessert. (It's also Fat Tuesday!)
Sunday was Valentines Day! Jacob's first Valentines Day! (Our 18th!) It was a good day. An easy day. We went to church - I did Children's Liturgy. Then Tom and I spent the day at home playing with our children. Later that evening, Tom's mother came over and offered to watch our children so Tom and I could go out to dinner. It was nice to go out alone for a couple of hours as a couple. We enjoy being together. We're best friends.
Unfortunately my poor hubby woke up feeling miserable today. He felt so bad that he stayed home from work - that very rarely happens. I tried to just let him rest in bed all day. He did come downstairs for dinner, but is now back in bed. I made a nice dinner for everyone, so nice that our daughter Rachel forgot daddy was sick and thought that he had made dinner. Ok, I'm not a fan of cooking, but I do do it sometimes. I also went to our church for Eucharistic Adoration. I find it so powerful to be there knowing Jesus is present. I spend most of the time crying. With my husband sick and snow falling, I almost didn't go - but so glad I did. I really love going. I want to go and need to go. I feel I need to make time for God because I am always asking Him to make time for me. Lots of prayers come from me.
One funny thing that happened last week -- I went outside to get the mail. As I was walking up the driveway, I heard the front door shut. Then I heard Sarah, my 2 year old, laughing and yelling "I locked the door! I locked the door!" She sounded so happy and proud of herself. Thankfully the little Stinkerbell knew how to unlock the door too.
Everyone is off to bed except me. I have little Jakey on my lap, satisfied and asleep. He's been fighting a nasty cold, everyone in our home has. I'm pretty tired of hearing coughing and sneezing. I think we're almost through it. Poor Tommy almost got away without getting it. Hopefully he feels better in the morning.
I am off to bed with this little peanut.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Mother Teresa
"Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin."
I belong to a Mother's Bible Study at my church. The book we are studying right now is about Mother Teresa. She was so loving and caring - amazing life. The one thing she says is that we should see Jesus in everyone. "Each of them is Jesus in disguise." I am trying. Even in my children. When they are whining for something I try to realize that they aren't just little people "bugging" me, they are gifts from God and God gave them to me and Tom to take care of. I need to take care of them. When they are hungry, give them food. When they are thirsty, give them drink. Clothe them. Care for them when they are not well - both physically and emotionally.
We went to mass last Sunday in the evening. Mornings can be stressful when we're rushing to get out with everyone, so sometimes we enjoy going at night. If our younger ones are tired, it can be a little difficult. This Sunday, our children were acting pretty good, but we still had a couple of "moments." Our baby was crying and I had to stand up with him. While standing against the wall, our 2 youngest daughters kept running back and forth between me and our pew. Of course, when things like this happen you think everyone is looking and paying attention to you. But at the end of mass while we were getting our coats on, a lady sitting a couple of pews behind us, smiled at us and told us how wonderful our children were during mass. She said she enjoyed seeing our "big" family. We smiled and thanked her. It was nice to hear. We went to the back of our church and were getting ready to go out into the cold to our 2 cars, when another lady came up to us. She had smiled at me from across the Narthex then walked across to our family. She said that she was sitting behind us during mass and just wanted to say how much she enjoyed seeing a family with so many children. She asked if any of them were twins and then told our children how well-behaved they were during mass. Our children smiled at her and I thanked her for letting them know. I said it was nice for them to hear that from other people.
Later, I thought more of these 2 ladies. I believe that God sent them over to us. We are to see Jesus in everyone and perhaps these ladies were like Jesus coming over to Tom and I to let us know that we're ok, we are doing a good job. There are times when we feel a bit overwhelmed, especially when I get a phone call, or a note telling me that one of our children goofs off in class or isn't getting their work turned in, or got into trouble for misbehaving - again. And some days our home is very loud. Some days I feel like it is 7 against 1 (when Tom is at work.) Some days I am being pulled in 7 different directions. I tell Tom to never call home between 4:00 and 6:00. Homework, getting dinner ready and nursing a baby fill those 2 hours. I can't fit anything else.
People ask how I do it. I don't know. Sometimes I feel like I'm not doing it right, but I am doing my best. I really do enjoy every single one of our children. From chatting with my teenage son to cuddling with my 5 mth old baby (and kissing those sweet chubby little feet.) In fact, Jacob looks a lot like Brandon when he was a baby. I feel like I went back 13 years and then reality hits and I realize just how quickly those 13 years went. (I'm going to have a kindergartner and a college freshmen in the same year!)
People also ask me if we're "done." I usually just smile. I don't know. I know that some people don't understand and just assume we're crazy. We're really not. Tom and I are best friends. We have chosen not to do anything to stop a pregnancy because of our faith. Our children literally come from God and the love between me and my husband. It's amazing to think about that while looking at our children. Plus, we have been blessed with being able to have children. We have been blessed with being able to care for them. No, it's not always easy, but it's worth it. Even though we miss out on some things. We've noticed that we're not always invited to things that we used to be. I guess we're a few too many now. That's ok. "Love begins by taking care of the closest ones - the ones at home." And those that truly love us - love all of us. We are a family and each person is a very important part of our family.
I belong to a Mother's Bible Study at my church. The book we are studying right now is about Mother Teresa. She was so loving and caring - amazing life. The one thing she says is that we should see Jesus in everyone. "Each of them is Jesus in disguise." I am trying. Even in my children. When they are whining for something I try to realize that they aren't just little people "bugging" me, they are gifts from God and God gave them to me and Tom to take care of. I need to take care of them. When they are hungry, give them food. When they are thirsty, give them drink. Clothe them. Care for them when they are not well - both physically and emotionally.
We went to mass last Sunday in the evening. Mornings can be stressful when we're rushing to get out with everyone, so sometimes we enjoy going at night. If our younger ones are tired, it can be a little difficult. This Sunday, our children were acting pretty good, but we still had a couple of "moments." Our baby was crying and I had to stand up with him. While standing against the wall, our 2 youngest daughters kept running back and forth between me and our pew. Of course, when things like this happen you think everyone is looking and paying attention to you. But at the end of mass while we were getting our coats on, a lady sitting a couple of pews behind us, smiled at us and told us how wonderful our children were during mass. She said she enjoyed seeing our "big" family. We smiled and thanked her. It was nice to hear. We went to the back of our church and were getting ready to go out into the cold to our 2 cars, when another lady came up to us. She had smiled at me from across the Narthex then walked across to our family. She said that she was sitting behind us during mass and just wanted to say how much she enjoyed seeing a family with so many children. She asked if any of them were twins and then told our children how well-behaved they were during mass. Our children smiled at her and I thanked her for letting them know. I said it was nice for them to hear that from other people.
Later, I thought more of these 2 ladies. I believe that God sent them over to us. We are to see Jesus in everyone and perhaps these ladies were like Jesus coming over to Tom and I to let us know that we're ok, we are doing a good job. There are times when we feel a bit overwhelmed, especially when I get a phone call, or a note telling me that one of our children goofs off in class or isn't getting their work turned in, or got into trouble for misbehaving - again. And some days our home is very loud. Some days I feel like it is 7 against 1 (when Tom is at work.) Some days I am being pulled in 7 different directions. I tell Tom to never call home between 4:00 and 6:00. Homework, getting dinner ready and nursing a baby fill those 2 hours. I can't fit anything else.
People ask how I do it. I don't know. Sometimes I feel like I'm not doing it right, but I am doing my best. I really do enjoy every single one of our children. From chatting with my teenage son to cuddling with my 5 mth old baby (and kissing those sweet chubby little feet.) In fact, Jacob looks a lot like Brandon when he was a baby. I feel like I went back 13 years and then reality hits and I realize just how quickly those 13 years went. (I'm going to have a kindergartner and a college freshmen in the same year!)
People also ask me if we're "done." I usually just smile. I don't know. I know that some people don't understand and just assume we're crazy. We're really not. Tom and I are best friends. We have chosen not to do anything to stop a pregnancy because of our faith. Our children literally come from God and the love between me and my husband. It's amazing to think about that while looking at our children. Plus, we have been blessed with being able to have children. We have been blessed with being able to care for them. No, it's not always easy, but it's worth it. Even though we miss out on some things. We've noticed that we're not always invited to things that we used to be. I guess we're a few too many now. That's ok. "Love begins by taking care of the closest ones - the ones at home." And those that truly love us - love all of us. We are a family and each person is a very important part of our family.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
A New Year Begins
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass - it's about learning how to dance in the rain."
Busy beginning of a new year. Back to school, trying to make a committment to get to the gym, nasty cold passing back and forth between our children...Today I have 3 little ones clinging to me and Chocolate Cheerios all over my couch.
I am loving Jakey's little bald head. It is so sweet. So soft. He is growing so quickly. He's rolling around, playing with toys, and I'm afraid he won't fit in his cradle much longer. (Sarah and Jacob wear the same size diaper now LOL.) The last few nights he's slept in my arms. I'm just not ready to put him in his crib in the boys' bedroom.
Last week we finally got back to the swimming pool at the gym. It's so nice once we get there. The water is warm and our children have a lot of fun together. It's so nice that they have each other to play with. I held Sarah and played with her while Tom gave Leah a small swim lesson. Rachel, Noah, and Ethan swam together and went on the waterslide together. Brandon didn't want to go, so he stayed home and watched Jacob. It's nice he's old enough to babysit and it's nice that he enjoys watching his baby brother.
Tough week with the school bus. But now the school is involved because of another parent. A parent who is in denial of her own children's behavior. You can't even talk to her or her husband. When someone else has a problem with one of my children, that parent can talk to me and know that I will discuss it with them and with my child. It's the same if I have trouble with another child. I can discuss the problem with the other parent(s) grown-up to grown-up. This particular mother called me and yelled on my voicemail. Did she call to discuss it as an adult? No. She called to just yell and tell me that she was reporting my children to transportation and the schools. I felt like she was kind of being a "bully." Of course, she said her children did nothing wrong. Well, I'm sure by now she has learned differently from the school (and videotapes.) Better that way than me trying to convince her. There are many others having troubles with her boys. She may have just opened up a big mess for herself. Besides, I think it's pretty silly to say that a 6 year old little girl is being mean to an 11 year old boy. I know our boys don't get along, but leave my daughter out of it. That just makes me angry.
Next weekend I am leaving all this drama behind and going to Iowa for my "oldest" friend's 40th. I am so excited! We've been friends since first grade. Our 2 oldest will be staying with my sister, so we'll "only" be bringing 5 of our children. I wish we could bring all 7, but this way we only have to take 1 car. I will miss our 2 boys, but they love being with their cousins. They'll have a good time - and I am looking forward to seeing friends and having fun too.
Busy beginning of a new year. Back to school, trying to make a committment to get to the gym, nasty cold passing back and forth between our children...Today I have 3 little ones clinging to me and Chocolate Cheerios all over my couch.
I am loving Jakey's little bald head. It is so sweet. So soft. He is growing so quickly. He's rolling around, playing with toys, and I'm afraid he won't fit in his cradle much longer. (Sarah and Jacob wear the same size diaper now LOL.) The last few nights he's slept in my arms. I'm just not ready to put him in his crib in the boys' bedroom.
Last week we finally got back to the swimming pool at the gym. It's so nice once we get there. The water is warm and our children have a lot of fun together. It's so nice that they have each other to play with. I held Sarah and played with her while Tom gave Leah a small swim lesson. Rachel, Noah, and Ethan swam together and went on the waterslide together. Brandon didn't want to go, so he stayed home and watched Jacob. It's nice he's old enough to babysit and it's nice that he enjoys watching his baby brother.
Tough week with the school bus. But now the school is involved because of another parent. A parent who is in denial of her own children's behavior. You can't even talk to her or her husband. When someone else has a problem with one of my children, that parent can talk to me and know that I will discuss it with them and with my child. It's the same if I have trouble with another child. I can discuss the problem with the other parent(s) grown-up to grown-up. This particular mother called me and yelled on my voicemail. Did she call to discuss it as an adult? No. She called to just yell and tell me that she was reporting my children to transportation and the schools. I felt like she was kind of being a "bully." Of course, she said her children did nothing wrong. Well, I'm sure by now she has learned differently from the school (and videotapes.) Better that way than me trying to convince her. There are many others having troubles with her boys. She may have just opened up a big mess for herself. Besides, I think it's pretty silly to say that a 6 year old little girl is being mean to an 11 year old boy. I know our boys don't get along, but leave my daughter out of it. That just makes me angry.
Next weekend I am leaving all this drama behind and going to Iowa for my "oldest" friend's 40th. I am so excited! We've been friends since first grade. Our 2 oldest will be staying with my sister, so we'll "only" be bringing 5 of our children. I wish we could bring all 7, but this way we only have to take 1 car. I will miss our 2 boys, but they love being with their cousins. They'll have a good time - and I am looking forward to seeing friends and having fun too.
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