"A birthday is just the first day of another 365-day journey around the sun. Enjoy the trip!"
First let me start with Halloween. We had a little birthday celebration for our daughter Leah with neighborhood friends. Everyone came over in their costumes and had chili and cake. Our 3 girls were very "girlie" this year. Sarah was Snow White, Leah was Tinkerbell, and Rachel was Belle. Our boys just threw on whatever they could find in our costume box - they're only in it for the candy. Plus, what does it really matter when it's freezing outside and you have to wear a coat, hat, and gloves with your costume. At 4:00 it was time to go out for the candy collecting. Our oldest went to a neighbor's house and helped with their Haunted Laboratory instead of trick-or-treating. We had 5 going out to collect the goodies, so we had plenty to share. (Jacob stayed home with Grandma while she passed out the treats.) I did enjoy the 3 houses on the block that had "treats" for the moms and dads. And there is the gentleman up the street that always plays the song Thriller in his garage. That is one song that you just have to dance to. After trick-or-treating Tom took a few of the older children to a Haunted House and a few of our neighbors hung out at our home. I loved that Halloween was on a Saturday this year.
Next came my birthday week. Our children had school on Monday and Tuesday, then were off for parent-teacher conferences. We had all 5 of ours on Wednesday. They went well. No big surprises. Thursday I woke up to coffee and handmade birthday cards. Yes, I spent my big 40th birthday - day at home taking care of 7 children. Not too bad :o) We had a good day. I really tried not to do any kind of housework - I definitely didn't do any laundry on my birthday. In fact, I let myself forget about laundry the whole weekend. By Monday, the boys were frantically looking for clean socks and underwear. (My girls just got out their Christmas socks. It's not that far away.) Anyways, that night my husband surprised me with my friend that I have known since I was 5. She told me she was coming on Friday, but there was this little part of me that thought she might surprise me - and she did! My friend, Kimmy took the train from Iowa with her 3 girls and Tom picked them up from the station. We did a lot of chatting and facebooking, (I learned a few tricks on FB.) ordered Chinese food and made plans for the next day. I took them to their hotel that night then picked them up in the morning. Tom made an awesome breakfast! We loaded up our 2 cars and went to the Brunzwick Zone. We bowled, played video games, and played lazer tag. My children were really enjoying my birthday! That night we had our usual pizza-movie Friday and Kimmy's husband drove in from Iowa. It was late and we were all very tired. Guess I was feeling my new age.
Saturday was beautiful! Kimmy and her family came over and we all went to our favorite park. There is a huge slide on the side of a hill. Our children enjoyed going down the slide for awhile then we had everyone get together for pictures. It's pretty amazing to look at 10 children standing together and realizing that Kimmy and I were the mommies of all of them. Ok, mostly mine, but still. A little crazy to think where we've been and where we are now. Beautiful group of children by the way.
After the park we went to get ice cream. We went to Chef Will's place. Great guy - Great ice cream! He is going to be on the next Hell's Kitchen. It'll be fun to watch. We'll be cheering him on. My older boys even asked for his autograph and we got a few pictures with him too.
When we got home Grandma came over. She was going to watch a few of our children while we took the older ones out with us for dinner. Little did I know there was another surprise waiting for me. My friend Suzie. She came in with her husband and 2 daughters. Sue and I met in Jr. High. We were laughing at certain parts of the book, The Thornbirds while secretly passing it back and forth during english class. We got in trouble and have been friends ever since. Side story: Whenever one of my kids yawns and it makes me yawn - I laugh. I've told them the story of Sue and I proving how contagious yawns can be. English class, sitting in a circle, reading Romeo and Juliet outloud. We decided to pretend to yawn to see how many people we could get to yawn. When someone did, it was pretty funny, but the highlight was when our teacher yawned. (I can't remember his name!) We laughed so hard and got into trouble again. I believe we were always getting into trouble with that teacher :o) And now I have a son in Jr. High...goodness. Back to Saturday - We went out to Buffalo Wild Wings. Wings, drinks, trivia, darts. Had a great time. Picked up some desserts on the way home then just hung-out for awhile. Pretty wonderful to have Kim and Sue there for my birthday. I hope my children make special friendships that last a lifetime too.
On Sunday we went to church in the morning and then had to say good-bye to Kimmy and her family. Hopefully we'll get together in Des Moines in a couple months for Kimmy's 40th.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Baptism
"Thus says the Lord: Shout with joy for Jacob..."
That was the first line of the First Reading at church this last Sunday - the day that Jacob was welcomed into the church through Baptism. This was my "sign" that we were all there on the right day. Baby Jacob Edward was supposed to be baptized on this date.
It was a wonderful, special weekend. On Saturday we went to the hospital where 4 of our children have been born, including Sarah. Sarah was 6 1/2 weeks premature. She was in the NICU for 12 days. This last Saturday was a NICU reunion. The first one they've ever had. It was nice. I actually saw the little boy who was next to Sarah in the NICU. I had remembered his name, then asked his mother the date he was born to confirm it was him. How amazing to see him and Sarah now standing next to each other. We also recognized one of our nurses. She had actually remembered us when we came in to have Jacob. (Born 10 weeks ago today.) I was sad that Sarah's doctor was not there. I had brought a picture of him holding Sarah when she was in the NICU. He would call her his "buddy." He took special care of Sarah.
Sunday was Jacob Edward's special day! God blessed us with a beautiful, sunny day. My sister, Ann and her husband, Steve are his godparents. They flew in from Texas. I love Baptisms! We had many family members with us. And I must say, Jacob looked absolutely handsome. He was staring at me, smiling through most of the readings. He cried a little when the blessed holy water washed over his head, but not much. Fr. David was the priest who baptized Jacob.
After Jakey's Baptism, and many pictures, we went back to our home for yummy chili and cake. We had 2 cakes. One for Jacob and one for my sister, Maureen and my daughter, Leah's birthdays. (Maureen's was last week and Leah's was yesterday.) We opened presents and took more pictures. While I was pregnant, one of my "Bible Girls" sent me a "mini" rosary for my baby. This was the day I gave the rosary to Jacob. I got some sweet pictures of him holding his rosary and some with his rosary sticking out of his pocket.
My sister Ann stayed with us for the next 2 days. We had fun. Lots of playing, tea drinking, and chatting. My girlies had us playing with dollys, reading books, playing princesses on the Wii, coloring, and doing hair styling. My boys joined us for a game of Disney Scene-It and DVR recordings of The Middle.
My sister was also here for Leah's 4th birthday. We put a candle in her pancakes and sang to her. Our mom had spent the night too. Later, when my dad came over, Leah was greeted by all of us when she got off the preschool bus. We had lunch, more pictures, then it was time for our parents to take Annie to the airport. I was a bit tearful. We had a wonderful time and it was nice to have my sister here to help and to just hang out with. We had joked about getting her an "I Survived" t-shirt. Our children loved having Auntie Annie here - and so did I. We can't wait for her to come back.
Today was our first day studying Mother Teresa at my Mother's Bible Study. We also had trick or treating. Jacob had on his clown hat and Sarah dressed up as Snow White. Both were pretty adorable. We all brought treats to put in their bags. The wonderful men and women that care for our children, so we can have this time together, brought them in to trick or treat. It was cute. Some days it is hard to get up and go, but I enjoy my Bible Study - and I love my Bible Girls.
That was the first line of the First Reading at church this last Sunday - the day that Jacob was welcomed into the church through Baptism. This was my "sign" that we were all there on the right day. Baby Jacob Edward was supposed to be baptized on this date.
It was a wonderful, special weekend. On Saturday we went to the hospital where 4 of our children have been born, including Sarah. Sarah was 6 1/2 weeks premature. She was in the NICU for 12 days. This last Saturday was a NICU reunion. The first one they've ever had. It was nice. I actually saw the little boy who was next to Sarah in the NICU. I had remembered his name, then asked his mother the date he was born to confirm it was him. How amazing to see him and Sarah now standing next to each other. We also recognized one of our nurses. She had actually remembered us when we came in to have Jacob. (Born 10 weeks ago today.) I was sad that Sarah's doctor was not there. I had brought a picture of him holding Sarah when she was in the NICU. He would call her his "buddy." He took special care of Sarah.
Sunday was Jacob Edward's special day! God blessed us with a beautiful, sunny day. My sister, Ann and her husband, Steve are his godparents. They flew in from Texas. I love Baptisms! We had many family members with us. And I must say, Jacob looked absolutely handsome. He was staring at me, smiling through most of the readings. He cried a little when the blessed holy water washed over his head, but not much. Fr. David was the priest who baptized Jacob.
After Jakey's Baptism, and many pictures, we went back to our home for yummy chili and cake. We had 2 cakes. One for Jacob and one for my sister, Maureen and my daughter, Leah's birthdays. (Maureen's was last week and Leah's was yesterday.) We opened presents and took more pictures. While I was pregnant, one of my "Bible Girls" sent me a "mini" rosary for my baby. This was the day I gave the rosary to Jacob. I got some sweet pictures of him holding his rosary and some with his rosary sticking out of his pocket.
My sister Ann stayed with us for the next 2 days. We had fun. Lots of playing, tea drinking, and chatting. My girlies had us playing with dollys, reading books, playing princesses on the Wii, coloring, and doing hair styling. My boys joined us for a game of Disney Scene-It and DVR recordings of The Middle.
My sister was also here for Leah's 4th birthday. We put a candle in her pancakes and sang to her. Our mom had spent the night too. Later, when my dad came over, Leah was greeted by all of us when she got off the preschool bus. We had lunch, more pictures, then it was time for our parents to take Annie to the airport. I was a bit tearful. We had a wonderful time and it was nice to have my sister here to help and to just hang out with. We had joked about getting her an "I Survived" t-shirt. Our children loved having Auntie Annie here - and so did I. We can't wait for her to come back.
Today was our first day studying Mother Teresa at my Mother's Bible Study. We also had trick or treating. Jacob had on his clown hat and Sarah dressed up as Snow White. Both were pretty adorable. We all brought treats to put in their bags. The wonderful men and women that care for our children, so we can have this time together, brought them in to trick or treat. It was cute. Some days it is hard to get up and go, but I enjoy my Bible Study - and I love my Bible Girls.
Monday, October 12, 2009
The Power of Prayer
"Do not fear for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you."
Sneezing and coughing in our home. Ugh. Started with our oldest. All of our children got the flu shot - well, not our baby of course, so I'm hoping this is just a cold and not the more serious flu. I have the print outs of what to look for and when to seek medical care. I'm going to be a little crazy during this season. I think that's the hardest part about being a parent. I'm so worried about my family's health. Tom reminds me to just pray about it. I'm trying.
So today I am home with all 7 of our children. I'm a bit outnumbered. The laundry and general cleaning of our house might have to wait. What's the point? What's that saying? Cleaning your home while your children are still growing is like shoveling the sidewalk while it's still snowing. Something like that :o) I think they have every toy in the playroom out. Guess that is what a playroom is for. It's also not very quiet here. A few disagreements with some whining. I hear some coughing and sneezing going on too. I've already taken Lysol wipes to the tv remote, computer mouse, door handles, and phones. We've got the hand sanitizer for everyone to use before going near baby Jacob. I need to go buy some of the spray.
Jakey is going to spend most of the day in my arms - mainly because I feel ok and don't want anyone who is sick to touch him, but also because he wants to be entertained these days. We have his little seat inside his playpen with a musical toy attached, but he'd rather be with us. The paci keeps him happy if he's tired, but he cries the moment it falls out.
Jacob's getting social. He loves to smile and is just learning to Coo. Tom and I were at our Couples Bible Study Friday night. Jacob seemed to realize he could make noise during that meeting. He was looking at me and there was just this "surprised" look on his face when he made a little "k" sound. He did it a couple times then smiled at me like - "Did you hear that?" - then tried it a couple more times. He seemed very proud of himself and I was proud of him too. I am looking forward to watching this little boy grow up. It's amazing to think that a year ago I had no idea I'd have anymore children. I was focusing on having surgery on my legs. I'm so happy that God had other plans for me.
When I think even further back, about 1 and 1/2 years ago I was on medication and told that I had a condition that was pre-cancerous. I'd have to have tests done every year, have to remain on medicine forever, and needed to do something to make sure that I did not get pregnant. One night Tom was working late and I had all our children in bed and/or comfortable with a movie. I just wanted to take a warm bath. When I was done and out of the tub, I started to cry. I fell to my knees in the bathroom and just cried and prayed. I told God that I knew he wouldn't give me more than I could handle and that this was something I just couldn't handle. After a few minutes, I heard the big garage door go up. I quickly threw on my pj's, dried my eyes, and ran downstairs to greet Tommy, thrilled that he didn't have to work as late as he thought. But Tommy wasn't home. Instead, in my kitchen stood my mom and dad. Wow. First of all, they weren't planning to visit from Iowa until the next day. Second, they usually only stop by my house on their way to my sister's when they get in in the afternoon. Normally they would not stop by at night - it was after 8:00 - they'd call and come over the next day so they could see their grandchildren too. All that, plus it was the fact that they "knew" to just let themselves in that made me know that God had sent them during a time I really needed them. He was showing me that He was not going to leave me all alone through this difficult part of my life. He heard me. (I tell people my mom has a direct line to God.) Anyways, back to my health issue. I happened to see online that there might be a "cure" to my problem at the Mayo Clinic. I had been there before for 2 lung surgeries (I will have to blog about that later. That whole health thing was a blessing. It's how Tom and I really came together.) I called Mayo and they got me in. It happened to be at a time that my parents could come live at our house with our 5 children - Tom and I took baby Sarah with us. After a few appointments and tests, they found that I was misdiagnosed and taken off all medication. (Sarah had been on meds too - they suggested that we take her off hers when they asked why she was on it. We did and she was fine.) You know, before all of this I went to see one of the boys from Medjugore speak. We were able to watch him as he saw and spoke to Mother Mary. We could put prayers in a box there that he would give to Mother Mary for us. I put in different prayers for my family and loved ones. For myself, I asked for courage. I believe the courage I was blessed with is what got me to the right place and the right doctors.
On the way home, after all was done at Mayo, we stopped by a place where they were building a place to pray. It was built for praying especially for unborn babies. We spent some time there. It was beautiful. In the gift shop there were many beautiful and religious statues, jewelry, and other items. I ended up buying a simple little prayer card. Prayer for Health: O Sacred Heart of Jesus I come to ask you for the gift of restored health, that I may serve you more faithfully and love you more sincerely than in the past. I want to be well and strong if it is your will and rebound to your glory. If in your divine wisdom I am to be restored to health and strength, I will strive to show my gratitude by a constant and faithful service rendered to you. Amen. I feel so strongly that Jacob was/is a gift (All children are.) and that I can show my gratitude for my restored health by being a good mother to him and our other children.
I had made a CD of religious music that I love. I listened to it on our long drives back and forth to Mayo. I made copies for my Bible Girls and still hand out copies to those I feel need some "hope." Music (and prayer) helps me get through so much. I wanted to do something to help spread hope and God's love. I want my children to know the power of prayer. (I'm still trying to show Tom that praying to St. Anthony for lost items truly works.) The other night I was getting dinner on the table. Tom was working late, but I was still trying to get all our children to the table at the same time so we could eat together. Jacob was in his seat and was starting to cry. Everyone was in the kitchen and so I decided to start saying grace. We all said it together. When we were done Brandon asked me if I noticed that once we all started to pray aloud, Jacob stopped crying. I smiled at him and said yes, I had noticed.
Sneezing and coughing in our home. Ugh. Started with our oldest. All of our children got the flu shot - well, not our baby of course, so I'm hoping this is just a cold and not the more serious flu. I have the print outs of what to look for and when to seek medical care. I'm going to be a little crazy during this season. I think that's the hardest part about being a parent. I'm so worried about my family's health. Tom reminds me to just pray about it. I'm trying.
So today I am home with all 7 of our children. I'm a bit outnumbered. The laundry and general cleaning of our house might have to wait. What's the point? What's that saying? Cleaning your home while your children are still growing is like shoveling the sidewalk while it's still snowing. Something like that :o) I think they have every toy in the playroom out. Guess that is what a playroom is for. It's also not very quiet here. A few disagreements with some whining. I hear some coughing and sneezing going on too. I've already taken Lysol wipes to the tv remote, computer mouse, door handles, and phones. We've got the hand sanitizer for everyone to use before going near baby Jacob. I need to go buy some of the spray.
Jakey is going to spend most of the day in my arms - mainly because I feel ok and don't want anyone who is sick to touch him, but also because he wants to be entertained these days. We have his little seat inside his playpen with a musical toy attached, but he'd rather be with us. The paci keeps him happy if he's tired, but he cries the moment it falls out.
Jacob's getting social. He loves to smile and is just learning to Coo. Tom and I were at our Couples Bible Study Friday night. Jacob seemed to realize he could make noise during that meeting. He was looking at me and there was just this "surprised" look on his face when he made a little "k" sound. He did it a couple times then smiled at me like - "Did you hear that?" - then tried it a couple more times. He seemed very proud of himself and I was proud of him too. I am looking forward to watching this little boy grow up. It's amazing to think that a year ago I had no idea I'd have anymore children. I was focusing on having surgery on my legs. I'm so happy that God had other plans for me.
When I think even further back, about 1 and 1/2 years ago I was on medication and told that I had a condition that was pre-cancerous. I'd have to have tests done every year, have to remain on medicine forever, and needed to do something to make sure that I did not get pregnant. One night Tom was working late and I had all our children in bed and/or comfortable with a movie. I just wanted to take a warm bath. When I was done and out of the tub, I started to cry. I fell to my knees in the bathroom and just cried and prayed. I told God that I knew he wouldn't give me more than I could handle and that this was something I just couldn't handle. After a few minutes, I heard the big garage door go up. I quickly threw on my pj's, dried my eyes, and ran downstairs to greet Tommy, thrilled that he didn't have to work as late as he thought. But Tommy wasn't home. Instead, in my kitchen stood my mom and dad. Wow. First of all, they weren't planning to visit from Iowa until the next day. Second, they usually only stop by my house on their way to my sister's when they get in in the afternoon. Normally they would not stop by at night - it was after 8:00 - they'd call and come over the next day so they could see their grandchildren too. All that, plus it was the fact that they "knew" to just let themselves in that made me know that God had sent them during a time I really needed them. He was showing me that He was not going to leave me all alone through this difficult part of my life. He heard me. (I tell people my mom has a direct line to God.) Anyways, back to my health issue. I happened to see online that there might be a "cure" to my problem at the Mayo Clinic. I had been there before for 2 lung surgeries (I will have to blog about that later. That whole health thing was a blessing. It's how Tom and I really came together.) I called Mayo and they got me in. It happened to be at a time that my parents could come live at our house with our 5 children - Tom and I took baby Sarah with us. After a few appointments and tests, they found that I was misdiagnosed and taken off all medication. (Sarah had been on meds too - they suggested that we take her off hers when they asked why she was on it. We did and she was fine.) You know, before all of this I went to see one of the boys from Medjugore speak. We were able to watch him as he saw and spoke to Mother Mary. We could put prayers in a box there that he would give to Mother Mary for us. I put in different prayers for my family and loved ones. For myself, I asked for courage. I believe the courage I was blessed with is what got me to the right place and the right doctors.
On the way home, after all was done at Mayo, we stopped by a place where they were building a place to pray. It was built for praying especially for unborn babies. We spent some time there. It was beautiful. In the gift shop there were many beautiful and religious statues, jewelry, and other items. I ended up buying a simple little prayer card. Prayer for Health: O Sacred Heart of Jesus I come to ask you for the gift of restored health, that I may serve you more faithfully and love you more sincerely than in the past. I want to be well and strong if it is your will and rebound to your glory. If in your divine wisdom I am to be restored to health and strength, I will strive to show my gratitude by a constant and faithful service rendered to you. Amen. I feel so strongly that Jacob was/is a gift (All children are.) and that I can show my gratitude for my restored health by being a good mother to him and our other children.
I had made a CD of religious music that I love. I listened to it on our long drives back and forth to Mayo. I made copies for my Bible Girls and still hand out copies to those I feel need some "hope." Music (and prayer) helps me get through so much. I wanted to do something to help spread hope and God's love. I want my children to know the power of prayer. (I'm still trying to show Tom that praying to St. Anthony for lost items truly works.) The other night I was getting dinner on the table. Tom was working late, but I was still trying to get all our children to the table at the same time so we could eat together. Jacob was in his seat and was starting to cry. Everyone was in the kitchen and so I decided to start saying grace. We all said it together. When we were done Brandon asked me if I noticed that once we all started to pray aloud, Jacob stopped crying. I smiled at him and said yes, I had noticed.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
6 Weeks
And when Esau lifted up his eyes and saw the women and children he said, "Who are these with you?" Jacob said, "The children whom God has graciously given your servant."
It is Saturday morning. Tom said I could sleep in, but Jacob said I couldn't. He wins. Wow. I did not blog much in September. Having a new baby and having school start for 5 of our children has kept me busy. Plus, it's that time of year when my Family Room looks like a resale shop. I'm switching out our children's Summer clothes for the Winter clothes. It's not a fun job. It's starts out ok, but then it gets very overwhelming. Boxes and bags of girls and boys clothes from newborn to size 16. For myself, I am packing away my maternity clothes and trying to find "regular" clothes that fit me. I'm not quite back into my old wardrobe yet. That will take awhile - especially with the cold weather coming. Being inside all day with little ones, a lot of snacking goes on.
I did have my 6 week check-up this week. All is fine. I always get uncomfortable thinking about this appointment. This is where they bring up the "c" word. What bothered me more this time was that the nurse asked me about contraception while she was checking me in - doing my weight and blood pressure. I didn't think it was something I needed to discuss with her. I really do like my doctor. He seems to understand that Tom and I have a hard time with this. He didn't try to talk me into anything, just gave me some options and told me to call him if he can help me with any of them. I just gave my usual answer, that I'll talk to Tom. (The nurse seemed upset with my answer.) Even now I'm not sure what to write because I don't want people to think that I judge others because of their choices on this. I really don't. I understand and believe that people have to do what they're comfortable with. I believe it's between them and God. But honestly...I do feel that Tom and I are judged by others. Mainly strangers. Lots of looks, lots of comments. People really do ask us if they are all ours when we're out. They ask if we know what causes it. They ask us how we can afford all of them. (We can't. Just kidding :o) Tom and I just dream of the vacations and cars we'd be driving. Ha!) They tell us we're brave. (I prefer when they say blessed.) Or they just stare at us. A few times I've heard people quietly counting our children then making a comment under their breath. I'll just smile at Tom and say "we just got counted."
One time this Summer we were at a pizza restaurant and an older gentleman walked by our table, looked back, and counted our 6 children then said to our waitress "6!" Our waitress was very sweet, probably around 18 yrs old, and after taking our order asked us if we were planning to have any other children. I stood up and showed her my very pregnant tummy. She smiled and told us that she was the 7th child in her family, that's why she had asked. She said it was nice to see a big family.
Earlier this week I took all 7 of our children to our pediatrician for flu shots - Jacob just came along for the ride. (When I told my OB this, his nurse asked me "By yourself!?" - Yes. I do that.) My children were very well behaved. They were playing together at the tables and reading books. They got a lot of stares, which is fine. I'm getting used to it. Plus, I know it's really because they're all amazingly beautiful :o) When we went into the room for the shots, it was nice to see them helping each other through it. They were trying to make each other laugh so they wouldn't be so scared. When it was done, they each got a lollipop. All better.
On our way out I saw a lady that goes to the same church we do. She has 6 girls. She came over to me to see our baby (she happened to be at the doctor when we brought Jacob in for his first appointment too.) It's nice to bump into someone you know and/or who understands having many children. She is always very sweet and asks how things are going. When we went to the dentist last weekend (it's a Saturday morning event every 6 months) the receptionist told me that she is one of 7 children. She always wondered how her mother did it, but now she looks at me and sees how it can be done. I'm going to take that as a compliment.
It's a cold, gray day outside this morning. Makes it hard to get going, but we have a Little League game to get to. Noah hasn't hit a ball during a game yet. I pray that today is the day. (Yum...Brandon just gave me a piece of Monkey Bread he just made.)
After writing about all this - it reminds me of a saying I thought was funny and true. For Christmas, one of the gifts I bought Tommy was a coffee cup for work that says "Stop asking me if I'm going to get fixed. Obviously, nothing is broken."
It is Saturday morning. Tom said I could sleep in, but Jacob said I couldn't. He wins. Wow. I did not blog much in September. Having a new baby and having school start for 5 of our children has kept me busy. Plus, it's that time of year when my Family Room looks like a resale shop. I'm switching out our children's Summer clothes for the Winter clothes. It's not a fun job. It's starts out ok, but then it gets very overwhelming. Boxes and bags of girls and boys clothes from newborn to size 16. For myself, I am packing away my maternity clothes and trying to find "regular" clothes that fit me. I'm not quite back into my old wardrobe yet. That will take awhile - especially with the cold weather coming. Being inside all day with little ones, a lot of snacking goes on.
I did have my 6 week check-up this week. All is fine. I always get uncomfortable thinking about this appointment. This is where they bring up the "c" word. What bothered me more this time was that the nurse asked me about contraception while she was checking me in - doing my weight and blood pressure. I didn't think it was something I needed to discuss with her. I really do like my doctor. He seems to understand that Tom and I have a hard time with this. He didn't try to talk me into anything, just gave me some options and told me to call him if he can help me with any of them. I just gave my usual answer, that I'll talk to Tom. (The nurse seemed upset with my answer.) Even now I'm not sure what to write because I don't want people to think that I judge others because of their choices on this. I really don't. I understand and believe that people have to do what they're comfortable with. I believe it's between them and God. But honestly...I do feel that Tom and I are judged by others. Mainly strangers. Lots of looks, lots of comments. People really do ask us if they are all ours when we're out. They ask if we know what causes it. They ask us how we can afford all of them. (We can't. Just kidding :o) Tom and I just dream of the vacations and cars we'd be driving. Ha!) They tell us we're brave. (I prefer when they say blessed.) Or they just stare at us. A few times I've heard people quietly counting our children then making a comment under their breath. I'll just smile at Tom and say "we just got counted."
One time this Summer we were at a pizza restaurant and an older gentleman walked by our table, looked back, and counted our 6 children then said to our waitress "6!" Our waitress was very sweet, probably around 18 yrs old, and after taking our order asked us if we were planning to have any other children. I stood up and showed her my very pregnant tummy. She smiled and told us that she was the 7th child in her family, that's why she had asked. She said it was nice to see a big family.
Earlier this week I took all 7 of our children to our pediatrician for flu shots - Jacob just came along for the ride. (When I told my OB this, his nurse asked me "By yourself!?" - Yes. I do that.) My children were very well behaved. They were playing together at the tables and reading books. They got a lot of stares, which is fine. I'm getting used to it. Plus, I know it's really because they're all amazingly beautiful :o) When we went into the room for the shots, it was nice to see them helping each other through it. They were trying to make each other laugh so they wouldn't be so scared. When it was done, they each got a lollipop. All better.
On our way out I saw a lady that goes to the same church we do. She has 6 girls. She came over to me to see our baby (she happened to be at the doctor when we brought Jacob in for his first appointment too.) It's nice to bump into someone you know and/or who understands having many children. She is always very sweet and asks how things are going. When we went to the dentist last weekend (it's a Saturday morning event every 6 months) the receptionist told me that she is one of 7 children. She always wondered how her mother did it, but now she looks at me and sees how it can be done. I'm going to take that as a compliment.
It's a cold, gray day outside this morning. Makes it hard to get going, but we have a Little League game to get to. Noah hasn't hit a ball during a game yet. I pray that today is the day. (Yum...Brandon just gave me a piece of Monkey Bread he just made.)
After writing about all this - it reminds me of a saying I thought was funny and true. For Christmas, one of the gifts I bought Tommy was a coffee cup for work that says "Stop asking me if I'm going to get fixed. Obviously, nothing is broken."
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
E's Birthday
"Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Our son Ethan "E" turned 11 today. He is child number 2. Ethan is a great child. I enjoy being with him. I let him sleep in a little this morning, but then we had to rush around a bit. There wasn't enough time to make a big breakfast for him, so we stuck a candle in his Cocoa Pebbles and sang Happy Birthday. It worked.
Later, I took Leah, Sarah, and Jacob to Ethan's school for lunch. He's 11, but still gave me a hug when he saw me there waiting for him. He sat with me and talked to me about the different kids in his class. When lunch was done he gave me a kiss and a hug and then kissed his sisters and baby brother. Ethan is very caring and loving towards his family (most of the time.) He is always looking out for his siblings.
I have a very close relationship with our oldest child Brandon. I'm trying to have the same kind of relationship with Ethan. Lately I feel like he's been trying to share more and is feeling more comfortable talking to me. Our children are so special to me. The other day when we were at the park and there was a lady yelling at a child (not her own) I told Tom I was glad she wasn't talking to one of our children like that because I'd have to approach her. Tom made a comment about how there was no way I'd confront the lady. Ethan quickly reminded Tom about two times he's seen me confront another adult in front of him. Once when we were in Wisconsin and there was a man at the swimming pool making comments about my children and my nieces and nephews. Then there was a neighbor who lost his "cool" while talking to me about an incident between his child and mine. I was surprised Ethan brought these times up - but glad that he realizes that I will "defend" my children - and also glad that both of these times (there have been others, but maybe E wasn't nearby) I stayed calm. I try not to yell or say "not so nice" words. I personally find cursing to be immature. I'm not big on confrontation, but there is just something about defending your children. I am protective.
I am also proud to say that Ethan has proven to me that I can trust him to make the right decisions (at this point in his life.) We had a talk about him following rules even when Dad and I aren't around. I know it can be hard to do, and at first he struggled with what we talked about, but now he seems to understand. Rules are rules. He's a good boy :o)
Ethan loves to write and wants to be an author of "creepy" stories someday. (He already has a great title - which I'll save until he has written his first book.) He is a creative story teller. He also loves to play baseball, four-square, and video games.
So there is my blog dedicated to our birthday boy E. We love him. He is a very special part of our family.
Our son Ethan "E" turned 11 today. He is child number 2. Ethan is a great child. I enjoy being with him. I let him sleep in a little this morning, but then we had to rush around a bit. There wasn't enough time to make a big breakfast for him, so we stuck a candle in his Cocoa Pebbles and sang Happy Birthday. It worked.
Later, I took Leah, Sarah, and Jacob to Ethan's school for lunch. He's 11, but still gave me a hug when he saw me there waiting for him. He sat with me and talked to me about the different kids in his class. When lunch was done he gave me a kiss and a hug and then kissed his sisters and baby brother. Ethan is very caring and loving towards his family (most of the time.) He is always looking out for his siblings.
I have a very close relationship with our oldest child Brandon. I'm trying to have the same kind of relationship with Ethan. Lately I feel like he's been trying to share more and is feeling more comfortable talking to me. Our children are so special to me. The other day when we were at the park and there was a lady yelling at a child (not her own) I told Tom I was glad she wasn't talking to one of our children like that because I'd have to approach her. Tom made a comment about how there was no way I'd confront the lady. Ethan quickly reminded Tom about two times he's seen me confront another adult in front of him. Once when we were in Wisconsin and there was a man at the swimming pool making comments about my children and my nieces and nephews. Then there was a neighbor who lost his "cool" while talking to me about an incident between his child and mine. I was surprised Ethan brought these times up - but glad that he realizes that I will "defend" my children - and also glad that both of these times (there have been others, but maybe E wasn't nearby) I stayed calm. I try not to yell or say "not so nice" words. I personally find cursing to be immature. I'm not big on confrontation, but there is just something about defending your children. I am protective.
I am also proud to say that Ethan has proven to me that I can trust him to make the right decisions (at this point in his life.) We had a talk about him following rules even when Dad and I aren't around. I know it can be hard to do, and at first he struggled with what we talked about, but now he seems to understand. Rules are rules. He's a good boy :o)
Ethan loves to write and wants to be an author of "creepy" stories someday. (He already has a great title - which I'll save until he has written his first book.) He is a creative story teller. He also loves to play baseball, four-square, and video games.
So there is my blog dedicated to our birthday boy E. We love him. He is a very special part of our family.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
1 month old
"To us, family means putting your arms around each other and being there."
Baby Jacob Edward is 1 month old today. Amazing! He is starting to make more eye contact - really checks people out. Gives little smiles when you talk to him. I took Jacob shopping last night, bought him a few outfits. (Love the clearance racks at Kohls - plus I had a 30% off coupon.) I am trying to get used to buying little boy outfits again. I'm so used to buying dresses and pink clothing. It was fun. I am looking forward to raising another little boy. His brothers want him to dress really cool. I got him a little denim jacket, Tony Hawk pants, camouflage clothing,...I'm sure his sisters will have some input too.
I just saw a preview for New Moon - the second Twilight movie. Looks really good. I can't wait to see it. I enjoyed all 4 books in that series. Fun to read. And our son happens to have the two main characters' names, but that's by coincidence :o)
Noah had a baseball game today. He just isn't into baseball. Coach has to keep saying Noah's name to get him to pay attention to what's going on around him. Oh well. At least he "kind of" tried it. We'll find something he is passionate about. He loves to draw like our oldest son. Maybe Noah will be artistic like Brandon. Brandon loved karate when he was really young, then tried soccer and baseball and in Jr. High did wrestling. I'm hoping Ethan or Noah want to try wrestling since we now own all the gear :o) Brandon is an incredible artist. I hope he can find a career using his wonderful talent. Ethan has a great time playing baseball and basketball, but wants to spend more time writing stories. He enjoys Goosebumps and wants to write books that are a little creepy. It's so hard to know what to sign your children up for. I want them to have a chance to try many different things, but in reality, that's expensive and it's impossible for me to take everyone to everything.
After Noah's game we played at the park again. Love our park! Our children played on the big hillside slide for a long time. We decided it was time to leave when the "grumpy" parents showed up. Goodness. I kept telling my children not to stare, but they found it hard not to. One mother started yelling at all the children on the slide trying to find the "bully" that took her child's wax paper (it helps you go down faster when you sit on it.) Then another father ran up the hill to yell at all the children to find who pushed his daughter and made her cry. Well, I believe they were both looking for and yelling at the same little boy. He was probably about 3 years old. As a parent, I would have been more upset at these adults yelling at my child, but I think this little boy's poor father was embarrassed or just to the edge of his patience. The whole park could hear this little boy cry as his father took him away from the slide to put him in "time out." Soon the father could also be heard across the whole park yelling at his son while holding him down. It was sad. One moment they're having a great day at the park and next it's just a complete meltdown for both of them. Tom and I told our children it was time to go. Just a bit uncomfortable at the park - they didn't argue, I think they were feeling uncomfortable too.
We ran to the store to buy Brandon some new shoes - the boy is growing! And then to another store to get Ethan's birthday gift. Went home and made everyone get in the shower or bath - Rachel, Leah, and Sarah were covered from head to toe in dirt from the park :o) Then we had pizza and watched a movie together. I love when we are all together. Every week I receive emails with prayer requests - makes me realize how much I have to be thankful for.
Baby Jacob Edward is 1 month old today. Amazing! He is starting to make more eye contact - really checks people out. Gives little smiles when you talk to him. I took Jacob shopping last night, bought him a few outfits. (Love the clearance racks at Kohls - plus I had a 30% off coupon.) I am trying to get used to buying little boy outfits again. I'm so used to buying dresses and pink clothing. It was fun. I am looking forward to raising another little boy. His brothers want him to dress really cool. I got him a little denim jacket, Tony Hawk pants, camouflage clothing,...I'm sure his sisters will have some input too.
I just saw a preview for New Moon - the second Twilight movie. Looks really good. I can't wait to see it. I enjoyed all 4 books in that series. Fun to read. And our son happens to have the two main characters' names, but that's by coincidence :o)
Noah had a baseball game today. He just isn't into baseball. Coach has to keep saying Noah's name to get him to pay attention to what's going on around him. Oh well. At least he "kind of" tried it. We'll find something he is passionate about. He loves to draw like our oldest son. Maybe Noah will be artistic like Brandon. Brandon loved karate when he was really young, then tried soccer and baseball and in Jr. High did wrestling. I'm hoping Ethan or Noah want to try wrestling since we now own all the gear :o) Brandon is an incredible artist. I hope he can find a career using his wonderful talent. Ethan has a great time playing baseball and basketball, but wants to spend more time writing stories. He enjoys Goosebumps and wants to write books that are a little creepy. It's so hard to know what to sign your children up for. I want them to have a chance to try many different things, but in reality, that's expensive and it's impossible for me to take everyone to everything.
After Noah's game we played at the park again. Love our park! Our children played on the big hillside slide for a long time. We decided it was time to leave when the "grumpy" parents showed up. Goodness. I kept telling my children not to stare, but they found it hard not to. One mother started yelling at all the children on the slide trying to find the "bully" that took her child's wax paper (it helps you go down faster when you sit on it.) Then another father ran up the hill to yell at all the children to find who pushed his daughter and made her cry. Well, I believe they were both looking for and yelling at the same little boy. He was probably about 3 years old. As a parent, I would have been more upset at these adults yelling at my child, but I think this little boy's poor father was embarrassed or just to the edge of his patience. The whole park could hear this little boy cry as his father took him away from the slide to put him in "time out." Soon the father could also be heard across the whole park yelling at his son while holding him down. It was sad. One moment they're having a great day at the park and next it's just a complete meltdown for both of them. Tom and I told our children it was time to go. Just a bit uncomfortable at the park - they didn't argue, I think they were feeling uncomfortable too.
We ran to the store to buy Brandon some new shoes - the boy is growing! And then to another store to get Ethan's birthday gift. Went home and made everyone get in the shower or bath - Rachel, Leah, and Sarah were covered from head to toe in dirt from the park :o) Then we had pizza and watched a movie together. I love when we are all together. Every week I receive emails with prayer requests - makes me realize how much I have to be thankful for.
Friday, September 11, 2009
God Bless the USA
"A Baby's smile is as loving as an Angel's touch."
September 11th. Today our family wore red, white, and blue to show that we will never forget. I still remember getting our oldest child, Brandon ready for Kindergarten, taking care of Ethan, and being pregnant with Noah when I turned the tv on. I saw the twin towers, the planes and yelled to Tom that there was something terrible happening. We sat in our family room not believing what we were seeing. We will always remember that day in 2001.
On a day that holds so much sadness, I do have one little bit of personal joy. My littlest boy gave me a gift. Jacob has given me small "smirks" here and there before, but tonight I lightly touched his cheek while nursing him and he gave me a beautiful smile.
September 11th. Today our family wore red, white, and blue to show that we will never forget. I still remember getting our oldest child, Brandon ready for Kindergarten, taking care of Ethan, and being pregnant with Noah when I turned the tv on. I saw the twin towers, the planes and yelled to Tom that there was something terrible happening. We sat in our family room not believing what we were seeing. We will always remember that day in 2001.
On a day that holds so much sadness, I do have one little bit of personal joy. My littlest boy gave me a gift. Jacob has given me small "smirks" here and there before, but tonight I lightly touched his cheek while nursing him and he gave me a beautiful smile.
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