I made it! Well, almost. I blogged 27 times this month I believe.
I'm ready to put November behind for now. It was a month of ups and downs. It feels like ages ago that we celebrated James' birthday and that Daniel and Jacob were in a car accident. Celebrating Daniel's birthday and Thanksgiving in Iowa were both very fun too!
Today was just kind of a lazy day. Yesterday I did quite a bit, so today I chilled with James and did a few small things around the house. At lunch time he wouldn't finish his food and I told him no dessert. I went in the kitchen to wash the dishes and he started having a huge tantrum. I told him he could get down, but he didn't want too. I decided it was nap time right about then! He fell asleep really fast, which is odd, but I figured the crying had worn him out.
I woke him up to go get Daniel from school and he just kept laying there until I had to pick him up out of bed and carry him to the living room. I was singing along to the radio while we were driving and it seems awfully quiet. He was asleep again! WHAT!? That never happens.
Once we got home he curled up in the recliner and wouldn't let me take off his hat, coat or shoes. He eventually came over to snuggle with me and we got the hat off. Around 3:50 I told him I had to go to my appointment. He was upset but then seemed okay. I was writing a list quickly to grab some stuff at Walmart, when he comes into the dining room looking for me and I looked up just in time to see the puke flying. Puke on the carpet, his coat and his shoes! I got it cleaned up while Jacob helped James. Ran down to start laundry and then headed out the door for physical therapy!
Thank goodness the place I go for PT is literally 2 minutes from our house!
PT was good today. Did a lot of stretches and exercises to help strengthen. Had some heat therapy and then a bit of massage therapy. I was feeling pretty good when I left, although still some twinges of pain. Plus one of the exercises kept giving me charlie horses in my hip/leg.
I didn't get to Walmart until almost 5:30, but got what I needed...until I remember something else I needed and then forgot about. I'm on day 2 of my new eating habits. I finally bit the bullet and am trying something I swore I couldn't do. I'm going low carb. Not like, extreme Keto, but trying to see if it helps. Also, I started drinking green tea. It's actually not too bad! (I can only drink it cold though. Not a big fan of hot drinks).
Got home and took a shower because I felt gross. Got the boys to bed and then finished up working on the advent calendar. Let the fun (and probably stress because this is me we're talking about), begin!
Thursday, November 30, 2017
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Thought Provoking Questions
I couldn't think of anything in particular to write about tonight, so I looked up through provoking questions and figured this could be fun.
You're all going to laugh at me for this because you probably know what's coming. Make sure that your children and you yourself are properly restrained in the car. So many preventable deaths and injuries occur because people won't wear a seat belt or take the time to make sure that their child's car seat is installed properly and that they are restrained correctly.
To be 30 pounds lighter in the blink of an eye. Or a Blizzard from DQ, but that just seems counter productive.
Because we take people for granted. We put other priorities in front of them, and then one day they're gone and you wish that you had more time with them. I lost my grandpa 5 years ago and I think of him often. Little things will remind me of him.
I'm a Jesus loving, thoughtful, kindhearted (although sometimes sarcastic and sassy), socially awkward kinda girl.
Oh heck no! I'm a planner. I like to know what's coming up and countdown to fun events. If I knew when I was going to die, that's all I would think about. I'd worry I wouldn't get everything done in time. Ha!
I honestly don't know. I think I'd have to be placed in that situation to know. For my kids though? I'd save them without a doubt.
Normally I'd say that I'm still trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up...and that's still true. But more than that, rather than searching, I'm waiting. Waiting for God to show me where He can use me the most.
Food. Specifically, all the bad ones that I put into my body on a daily basis.
Speak up!
You're all going to laugh at me for this because you probably know what's coming. Make sure that your children and you yourself are properly restrained in the car. So many preventable deaths and injuries occur because people won't wear a seat belt or take the time to make sure that their child's car seat is installed properly and that they are restrained correctly.
To be 30 pounds lighter in the blink of an eye. Or a Blizzard from DQ, but that just seems counter productive.
Because we take people for granted. We put other priorities in front of them, and then one day they're gone and you wish that you had more time with them. I lost my grandpa 5 years ago and I think of him often. Little things will remind me of him.
I'm a Jesus loving, thoughtful, kindhearted (although sometimes sarcastic and sassy), socially awkward kinda girl.
Oh heck no! I'm a planner. I like to know what's coming up and countdown to fun events. If I knew when I was going to die, that's all I would think about. I'd worry I wouldn't get everything done in time. Ha!
I honestly don't know. I think I'd have to be placed in that situation to know. For my kids though? I'd save them without a doubt.
Normally I'd say that I'm still trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up...and that's still true. But more than that, rather than searching, I'm waiting. Waiting for God to show me where He can use me the most.
Food. Specifically, all the bad ones that I put into my body on a daily basis.
Speak up!
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
A Fresh Start
If I type it here, it has to be true, right?
I battle with binge eating. I love me some carbs and sugar and when I slack off from a diet or exercise, I immediately start eating. It gets worse and worse until I hit my breaking point and start all over again.
It's a vicious cycle, and I joke about it to cope. I know it seems easy enough. Just don't eat. But it's a true addiction and unlike alcohol or drugs, there's no way to just NOT eat. Yes. I can eat healthier, but as soon as I see that "bad" food tempting me I want it.
I lie to myself when I binge. I tell myself that I'll start over tomorrow...for 4 months straight.
I say that I'll only have a handful of peanut butter M&M's, but I'll eat half a bag. Ice cream? Yeah, I could sit and eat that all day every day. I'll tell myself I don't need to get on the scale because if I don't, I don't have to fully face the reality that I'm gaining weight. I "wonder" why my clothes don't fit? Surely they just shrunk. Every single piece shrunk...that seems legit, right?
Well, tonight was the night. I was feeling grotesque after chowing down pizza tonight and probably consuming a billion calories, so I faced the music and stepped on the scale. Nothing can prepare you to look down and see the biggest number you've ever weighed. Especially when just 8 months ago you were 20 lbs lighter. I gained over 20 flipping pounds. I guess my theory on my clothes shrinking has been proven wrong.
I literally do this every year. I am a classic yo-yo dieter. If you look at My Fitness Pal, my weight looks like someone climbing up and down mountains for the past several years.
I think it's harder for me to lose weight now than before and that plays a part of why I eat. I eat for comfort. If the weight doesn't move, then I want to eat. I eat because it's something "cheap" I can do for satisfaction. (Although, to be honest it's not all that cheap when you're constantly buying it).
In my 20's I could drop 10 pounds in a few weeks. Now, I'm lucky to lose 1 or 2 and keep it off. It could be a mix of anything. Mostly just my stupidity, but hormones change after having kids. My metabolism is slow. My anxiety meds and birth control could also be adding to weight gain. If I could quit either to see, I would...but it wouldn't be wise.
So...what do I do? How do I motivate myself to do this AGAIN?
Things I've tried in the past include:
Green tea extract in pill form
Hydroxycut (Yeah...I had to try)
Low calorie diet/ counting calories
Positive and encouraging notes to myself around the house.
Reading verses and devotions about it.
Slim Fast
Exercise: weights, bike, swimming, walking
You guys. I get so bored. Why is exercise and healthy eating so addictive to other people and not me? I HATE sweating. Like I have barely any tolerance for it. I'm a super picky eater, so when other people are all, "Yum! Carrots!" "Ooohhh! A kale shake!" Yeah. That makes me want to curl up and die.
My life is basically all carbs. I have to cut back, but reading the lists of food I can eat gives me like 5 foods. (okay...more than that, but not a lot). I get sick of health foods, but for some reason I can eat pizza or tacos every day for weeks on end.
I dislike cooking, so if I can't toss it all in a pan or something and call it a day it probably won't be healthy.
What has worked for you? I know I need to cut back on eating by a ton. I know I need exercise and do plan to get in the pool again within the next couple of weeks depending on how my PT goes and once I get a new swimsuit (Merry Christmas to me!) because we all know there's no way I'm going to squeeze myself into my old suit.
Here's to sticking to this and somehow making it through the Christmas season without over doing it. My mom is starting over too. The weekend of my birthday in April my sisters will both be home and mom wants family pictures taken. I have exactly 5 months from today until my birthday...and need to lose about 30lbs to be comfortable with myself.
Hit me up with your best tips. And just as a disclaimer...ain't no way I'm buying diet crap from a consultant.
I battle with binge eating. I love me some carbs and sugar and when I slack off from a diet or exercise, I immediately start eating. It gets worse and worse until I hit my breaking point and start all over again.
It's a vicious cycle, and I joke about it to cope. I know it seems easy enough. Just don't eat. But it's a true addiction and unlike alcohol or drugs, there's no way to just NOT eat. Yes. I can eat healthier, but as soon as I see that "bad" food tempting me I want it.
I lie to myself when I binge. I tell myself that I'll start over tomorrow...for 4 months straight.
I say that I'll only have a handful of peanut butter M&M's, but I'll eat half a bag. Ice cream? Yeah, I could sit and eat that all day every day. I'll tell myself I don't need to get on the scale because if I don't, I don't have to fully face the reality that I'm gaining weight. I "wonder" why my clothes don't fit? Surely they just shrunk. Every single piece shrunk...that seems legit, right?
Well, tonight was the night. I was feeling grotesque after chowing down pizza tonight and probably consuming a billion calories, so I faced the music and stepped on the scale. Nothing can prepare you to look down and see the biggest number you've ever weighed. Especially when just 8 months ago you were 20 lbs lighter. I gained over 20 flipping pounds. I guess my theory on my clothes shrinking has been proven wrong.
I literally do this every year. I am a classic yo-yo dieter. If you look at My Fitness Pal, my weight looks like someone climbing up and down mountains for the past several years.
I think it's harder for me to lose weight now than before and that plays a part of why I eat. I eat for comfort. If the weight doesn't move, then I want to eat. I eat because it's something "cheap" I can do for satisfaction. (Although, to be honest it's not all that cheap when you're constantly buying it).
In my 20's I could drop 10 pounds in a few weeks. Now, I'm lucky to lose 1 or 2 and keep it off. It could be a mix of anything. Mostly just my stupidity, but hormones change after having kids. My metabolism is slow. My anxiety meds and birth control could also be adding to weight gain. If I could quit either to see, I would...but it wouldn't be wise.
So...what do I do? How do I motivate myself to do this AGAIN?
Things I've tried in the past include:
Green tea extract in pill form
Hydroxycut (Yeah...I had to try)
Low calorie diet/ counting calories
Positive and encouraging notes to myself around the house.
Reading verses and devotions about it.
Slim Fast
Exercise: weights, bike, swimming, walking
You guys. I get so bored. Why is exercise and healthy eating so addictive to other people and not me? I HATE sweating. Like I have barely any tolerance for it. I'm a super picky eater, so when other people are all, "Yum! Carrots!" "Ooohhh! A kale shake!" Yeah. That makes me want to curl up and die.
My life is basically all carbs. I have to cut back, but reading the lists of food I can eat gives me like 5 foods. (okay...more than that, but not a lot). I get sick of health foods, but for some reason I can eat pizza or tacos every day for weeks on end.
I dislike cooking, so if I can't toss it all in a pan or something and call it a day it probably won't be healthy.
What has worked for you? I know I need to cut back on eating by a ton. I know I need exercise and do plan to get in the pool again within the next couple of weeks depending on how my PT goes and once I get a new swimsuit (Merry Christmas to me!) because we all know there's no way I'm going to squeeze myself into my old suit.
Here's to sticking to this and somehow making it through the Christmas season without over doing it. My mom is starting over too. The weekend of my birthday in April my sisters will both be home and mom wants family pictures taken. I have exactly 5 months from today until my birthday...and need to lose about 30lbs to be comfortable with myself.
Hit me up with your best tips. And just as a disclaimer...ain't no way I'm buying diet crap from a consultant.
Monday, November 27, 2017
Playing Catch Up
Well, I missed a few posts this month, but I'll try to redeem myself for the end.
We had a fun time in Iowa this past weekend. I try to cherish every moment I get with my Iowa family...plus they sometimes give me a break from the kiddos!
We had Thanksgiving on Friday and finally got to watch Meet Me in St. Louis again.
On Saturday I went on a couple of errands with Kendra and then watched more Hallmark movies. They are so dang cheesy and sometimes almost painful, and yet they're fun to watch!
Yesterday was an interesting one to say the least. James was crying all the way from my parents house until we were getting near the interstate. He wanted his snack that he saw Mimi put in the bag and I said he needed to wait. Well,...I caved because I was driving and couldn't listen to that the whole time! He wolfed them down and was fine until about a half an hour from our lunch stop. 5 miles before our stop he started to fall asleep so Jacob kept him awake. I pulled into McDonald's and just as I opened James' door, it happened. The puke started flowing. On himself, my Kindle, his car seat and the van seat. I sent Jacob in with him to clean him up and get him changed, while Daniel waited patiently for me to do the best I could cleaning up. Thank goodness I threw a couple of towels in the back the day before!
Lunch went fine. He wasn't super hungry but would eat a little here and there.
We got settled back into the van and switched drivers. Jacob said, "$20 says we'll get stuck in traffic due to an accident" (because this has happened 2 times before.
Wouldn't you know. We were getting close to Springfield when one of the signs on the interstate alerted us of an accident ahead. Just about the same place we've gotten stuck before! I told Jacob to pull off at the rest area because I really needed to go and I knew judging by the tail lights we'd be waiting awhile.
As it turned out there were multiple crashes. 3 cars on one side. 2 on the other. Plus some fender benders. While it was frustrating, my mom pointed out to me that maybe God saved us from another accident. If we hadn't been behind schedule due to James getting sick, we could've been the ones in the accident.
We made it home just after 3:30 and Jacob unloaded the van...and then brought the tree up and all of my bins! As I unpacked, Jacob put the tree up. Listening to James squeal with excitement was priceless.
After unpacking, I had to clean out the car seat and de-puke the van. The rest of the night was a whirlwind of stuff, but thankfully James seemed to be fine.
Today, we were back to the daily grind. Dropped Daniel. Went to Kroger. Came home and put stuff away. Started decorating for Christmas. Lunch. And while James napped I decorated the tree. We he got up, he noticed right away it was decorated and started yelling, "It's like Mimi and Pa's Christmas tree!"
We picked Daniel up and went to the park for an hour. A 64 degree day always means fresh air! We even found 2 painted rocks!
Got home and let Daniel and James hang some ornaments I left for them, which they loved.
After supper Daniel and I did Brain Quest, Pucket, and a few secret decoder games.
Now here I sit. I've been stalking deals online all day, but haven't bought much of anything. "Window" shopping is always fun too!
Here's hoping for another good day tomorrow. I start physical therapy in the afternoon and I'm excited that maybe this will help me!
We had a fun time in Iowa this past weekend. I try to cherish every moment I get with my Iowa family...plus they sometimes give me a break from the kiddos!
We had Thanksgiving on Friday and finally got to watch Meet Me in St. Louis again.
On Saturday I went on a couple of errands with Kendra and then watched more Hallmark movies. They are so dang cheesy and sometimes almost painful, and yet they're fun to watch!
Yesterday was an interesting one to say the least. James was crying all the way from my parents house until we were getting near the interstate. He wanted his snack that he saw Mimi put in the bag and I said he needed to wait. Well,...I caved because I was driving and couldn't listen to that the whole time! He wolfed them down and was fine until about a half an hour from our lunch stop. 5 miles before our stop he started to fall asleep so Jacob kept him awake. I pulled into McDonald's and just as I opened James' door, it happened. The puke started flowing. On himself, my Kindle, his car seat and the van seat. I sent Jacob in with him to clean him up and get him changed, while Daniel waited patiently for me to do the best I could cleaning up. Thank goodness I threw a couple of towels in the back the day before!
Lunch went fine. He wasn't super hungry but would eat a little here and there.
We got settled back into the van and switched drivers. Jacob said, "$20 says we'll get stuck in traffic due to an accident" (because this has happened 2 times before.
Wouldn't you know. We were getting close to Springfield when one of the signs on the interstate alerted us of an accident ahead. Just about the same place we've gotten stuck before! I told Jacob to pull off at the rest area because I really needed to go and I knew judging by the tail lights we'd be waiting awhile.
As it turned out there were multiple crashes. 3 cars on one side. 2 on the other. Plus some fender benders. While it was frustrating, my mom pointed out to me that maybe God saved us from another accident. If we hadn't been behind schedule due to James getting sick, we could've been the ones in the accident.
We made it home just after 3:30 and Jacob unloaded the van...and then brought the tree up and all of my bins! As I unpacked, Jacob put the tree up. Listening to James squeal with excitement was priceless.
After unpacking, I had to clean out the car seat and de-puke the van. The rest of the night was a whirlwind of stuff, but thankfully James seemed to be fine.
Today, we were back to the daily grind. Dropped Daniel. Went to Kroger. Came home and put stuff away. Started decorating for Christmas. Lunch. And while James napped I decorated the tree. We he got up, he noticed right away it was decorated and started yelling, "It's like Mimi and Pa's Christmas tree!"
We picked Daniel up and went to the park for an hour. A 64 degree day always means fresh air! We even found 2 painted rocks!
Got home and let Daniel and James hang some ornaments I left for them, which they loved.
After supper Daniel and I did Brain Quest, Pucket, and a few secret decoder games.
Now here I sit. I've been stalking deals online all day, but haven't bought much of anything. "Window" shopping is always fun too!
Here's hoping for another good day tomorrow. I start physical therapy in the afternoon and I'm excited that maybe this will help me!
Friday, November 24, 2017
A Little of This. A Little of That.
I can't believe we've already spent 2 whole days in Iowa already. Tomorrow is the last full day and then we'll head home on Sunday morning.
We had a good time celebrating Daniel (and James) with Mimi, Pa and Aunt Nens. Daniel is now on the road to becoming a photographer with his new Kiddizoom camera. He also got a couple of news games that he loves and James got some fun things as well!
Daniel wanted a Cardinals birthday so Mimi decorated with a red table cloth, a Cards pennant, Cracker Jacks and then had cupcakes with Cardinals rings and a baseball on top. We even had some ballpark food for supper like burgers, hot dogs and fries. So fun!
Kendra and I went out for the start of Black Friday. We are the worst Black Friday shoppers ever. We had no plan. We kinda just go for fun. We got to skip the line at Kohl's because I convinced her to sign up for their charge card. All she had was 2 shirts and a pack of socks. The line was at least an hour long if not longer...so it only made sense! We "jammed" out to a Christmas song in the parking lot of Old Navy and we were rolling over the fact that we were SO off key. We got out and these girls are cracking up and loving that we were jamming in the car. LOL! If they could have only heard the noises that escaped us when we were trying to sing! Target was a mad house. And we went to Gordman's which was basically dead. We decided to head back to the house, and as our grand finale we belted out some Mariah Carey. I love us.
Today was our Thanksgiving. After my grandma had her stroke a few years ago, we've changed up our tradition and do Thanksgiving on Friday so that she's able to come from the assisted living center. I'm still full from lunch, but it sadly didn't stop me from stuffing my face at supper as well.
And tonight after we get the boys to bed we're watching Meet Me In St Louis, which means more snacks, I'm so excited. It's been at least 3 years since I've gotten to watch!
We had a good time celebrating Daniel (and James) with Mimi, Pa and Aunt Nens. Daniel is now on the road to becoming a photographer with his new Kiddizoom camera. He also got a couple of news games that he loves and James got some fun things as well!
Daniel wanted a Cardinals birthday so Mimi decorated with a red table cloth, a Cards pennant, Cracker Jacks and then had cupcakes with Cardinals rings and a baseball on top. We even had some ballpark food for supper like burgers, hot dogs and fries. So fun!
Kendra and I went out for the start of Black Friday. We are the worst Black Friday shoppers ever. We had no plan. We kinda just go for fun. We got to skip the line at Kohl's because I convinced her to sign up for their charge card. All she had was 2 shirts and a pack of socks. The line was at least an hour long if not longer...so it only made sense! We "jammed" out to a Christmas song in the parking lot of Old Navy and we were rolling over the fact that we were SO off key. We got out and these girls are cracking up and loving that we were jamming in the car. LOL! If they could have only heard the noises that escaped us when we were trying to sing! Target was a mad house. And we went to Gordman's which was basically dead. We decided to head back to the house, and as our grand finale we belted out some Mariah Carey. I love us.
Today was our Thanksgiving. After my grandma had her stroke a few years ago, we've changed up our tradition and do Thanksgiving on Friday so that she's able to come from the assisted living center. I'm still full from lunch, but it sadly didn't stop me from stuffing my face at supper as well.
And tonight after we get the boys to bed we're watching Meet Me In St Louis, which means more snacks, I'm so excited. It's been at least 3 years since I've gotten to watch!
Thursday, November 23, 2017
Daniel's 6th Birthday Letter
Dear Daniel,
Today you are 6 years old. Well, technically you aren't 6 until 5:46pm, but everyone deserves a whole day to celebrate!
6 years ago I was lying there in the hospital anxiously awaiting my doctor's arrival so I could start pushing. Once the process started it was an easy birth. I will never forget hearing you let our your first cry and them laying you on my chest. What an amazing moment to hold that little boy who had spent months kicking my ribs and my bladder...and yes 2 weeks before you were born you kicked me so hard in the middle of the night that I peed myself. You've always been ornery. :)
Over the past 6 years I've watched you grow from a tiny baby, to an insane and defiant (yet loveable) toddler and now you're a kindergartener and doing so well in school. In fact, we learned at your conference that you're already doing first grade work because you had already passed all the levels of kindergarten material on a computer program you use!
You love to learn and you are so inquisitive. You like to know how things work and how things are made. While your brother enjoys more "make believe" activities, you have always been analytical and curious about the world around you. You love math and science. You love to tell everyone that math is your favorite and then tack on, "And sometimes it's tasty too!" because one day you got to eat Skittles after solving problems with them. Sometimes you ask me questions that I have no idea how to answer, so I wing it. One of these days you'll figure that out and call me on it. I do ask Google sometimes if I really have no idea...or I tell you to ask Pa or your dad.
A few weeks ago you were in your first car accident (and I hope it's your only). I was terrified. I had to get to you to see if you were okay. By the time I arrived you were sitting still secured in your car seat in the back of the ambulance, perched on a stretcher. Now, you did cry when the accident happened, but when I got there, you were playing your Kindle and chatting the paramedics ear off. You walked away totally fine, and decided that the hospital is a pretty boring place. I for one, am thankful that it was boring place that day.
You love playing outside and go out any chance that you get. Your stomp rockets are your favorite thing to do. Plus, you love to go rock hunting at the park. You are starting to finally take an interest in reading and you're pretty darn good at it now that you've set your mind to eat. You're going places kid.
You are head strong and stubborn. You hate when you don't get your way and have some pretty epic meltdowns.
But, what I love about you so much is that you have a kind and loving heart. You always think of others and like to help people whenever you can. You always want to make sure that people are okay and will offer to share things that are yours. You have a big heart for God and love to go to church. Seeing things through your eyes when you learn things at church is such a great thing.
I pray that you always remember that even when things don't go your way, that you can still find ways to be kind and understanding. Turn to Jesus and ask him for help when you need it, and remember that I will always be here for you.
Have a great 6th year, Bub. I love your to infinity and beyond!
Love,
Mommy
Today you are 6 years old. Well, technically you aren't 6 until 5:46pm, but everyone deserves a whole day to celebrate!
6 years ago I was lying there in the hospital anxiously awaiting my doctor's arrival so I could start pushing. Once the process started it was an easy birth. I will never forget hearing you let our your first cry and them laying you on my chest. What an amazing moment to hold that little boy who had spent months kicking my ribs and my bladder...and yes 2 weeks before you were born you kicked me so hard in the middle of the night that I peed myself. You've always been ornery. :)
Over the past 6 years I've watched you grow from a tiny baby, to an insane and defiant (yet loveable) toddler and now you're a kindergartener and doing so well in school. In fact, we learned at your conference that you're already doing first grade work because you had already passed all the levels of kindergarten material on a computer program you use!
You love to learn and you are so inquisitive. You like to know how things work and how things are made. While your brother enjoys more "make believe" activities, you have always been analytical and curious about the world around you. You love math and science. You love to tell everyone that math is your favorite and then tack on, "And sometimes it's tasty too!" because one day you got to eat Skittles after solving problems with them. Sometimes you ask me questions that I have no idea how to answer, so I wing it. One of these days you'll figure that out and call me on it. I do ask Google sometimes if I really have no idea...or I tell you to ask Pa or your dad.
A few weeks ago you were in your first car accident (and I hope it's your only). I was terrified. I had to get to you to see if you were okay. By the time I arrived you were sitting still secured in your car seat in the back of the ambulance, perched on a stretcher. Now, you did cry when the accident happened, but when I got there, you were playing your Kindle and chatting the paramedics ear off. You walked away totally fine, and decided that the hospital is a pretty boring place. I for one, am thankful that it was boring place that day.
You love playing outside and go out any chance that you get. Your stomp rockets are your favorite thing to do. Plus, you love to go rock hunting at the park. You are starting to finally take an interest in reading and you're pretty darn good at it now that you've set your mind to eat. You're going places kid.
You are head strong and stubborn. You hate when you don't get your way and have some pretty epic meltdowns.
But, what I love about you so much is that you have a kind and loving heart. You always think of others and like to help people whenever you can. You always want to make sure that people are okay and will offer to share things that are yours. You have a big heart for God and love to go to church. Seeing things through your eyes when you learn things at church is such a great thing.
I pray that you always remember that even when things don't go your way, that you can still find ways to be kind and understanding. Turn to Jesus and ask him for help when you need it, and remember that I will always be here for you.
Have a great 6th year, Bub. I love your to infinity and beyond!
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
Holy Stress, Batman!
Any day that falls before a trip is stressful for me. It doesn't matter if it's overnight or a week long trip. No matter how many times I tell myself I don't have to do it all, my brain and anxiety fights me and says that I do. "Slow down...if you don't get everything done you still have a couple of hours in the morning." "Yes, but I feel like I NEED to do it all now!"
I woke up at 4:30 for no reason. At 6 I decided I'd get up and start moving, which never happens. I took a shower and then Daniel came in at 6:15. There went my hour of peace. I'll admit I got rather grouchy with him, but he wasn't obeying. Eventually though we bonded over a spider that we were trying to kill and it wouldn't die!
I got some laundry folded and more started and then fed the boys breakfast.
Dropped Daniel at school and then James and I went to Walmart so I could pick up a prescription. I needed a couple of other things and I decided to let James walk. So, we wandered all through the store before finally hopping into the van and heading to the bank to deposit my check for the car seat replacements. Then we stopped to refill the gas tank because we were returning our friend's van to them after they graciously let us use it for 2.5 weeks.
Got home and decided to switch out car seats which turned into an ordeal. I was clearing our stuff out of their van and trying to keep an eye on James as well. Eventually, I got everything done and by the time we got inside I had 15 minutes before we needed to leave again for my hair cut appointment. Of course James decided he had to take everything off even though I told him we needed to leave soon.
I ran down to switch laundry and what do I find. Another puddle of water! Ahhh!
By this point I'm sweating and stressing because I know I'm going to be late. I texted Jamie and said I'd be 5 minutes late and then proceeded to get James bundled back up. Got him into his seat. Ran and moved the other van into the street and then hopped back in ours and made it only a few minutes late.
The appointment was great because I love chatting with Jamie and bonding over our crazy kids. James went to play in their little play room, and while he was in there he pooped, so I had to change him before leaving.
Once we left I called Roto Rooter and they're sending a guy in the morning. Thankfully, I think this is something with the washing machine. No sewage or sewage smells. Phew.
Got home and switched more laundry and then called State Farm to get our van insured AND to add rental insurance. If you don't have it I'd look into it.
Fed James lunch. Folded towels. Put away towels. Washed dishes. Put James down for a nap. Wrapped my mom, dad and Kendra's Christmas presents. Folded MORE laundry. By this time it was time to go get Daniel.
My back has been killing for weeks, but I finally couldn't take it. So many sharp shooting pains and muscle spasms. Jacob wasn't home so I dragged the boys along to Urgent Care. I'm so glad we have one in town. I now have some meds that I hope will help, but my body tends to not respond unless it's something super potent.
Then we had to venture back to Walmart and wait another 40 minutes.Not fun walking around when you just want to curl up in the ball and cry but I pushed through.
I did relax tonight. I went to start packing because you know I can't just chill. Instead I spent an hour laying on Daniel's bed. Probably a smarter idea. I can pack more tomorrow.
Please pray for our safety as we travel tomorrow and for my back as well.
I woke up at 4:30 for no reason. At 6 I decided I'd get up and start moving, which never happens. I took a shower and then Daniel came in at 6:15. There went my hour of peace. I'll admit I got rather grouchy with him, but he wasn't obeying. Eventually though we bonded over a spider that we were trying to kill and it wouldn't die!
I got some laundry folded and more started and then fed the boys breakfast.
Dropped Daniel at school and then James and I went to Walmart so I could pick up a prescription. I needed a couple of other things and I decided to let James walk. So, we wandered all through the store before finally hopping into the van and heading to the bank to deposit my check for the car seat replacements. Then we stopped to refill the gas tank because we were returning our friend's van to them after they graciously let us use it for 2.5 weeks.
Got home and decided to switch out car seats which turned into an ordeal. I was clearing our stuff out of their van and trying to keep an eye on James as well. Eventually, I got everything done and by the time we got inside I had 15 minutes before we needed to leave again for my hair cut appointment. Of course James decided he had to take everything off even though I told him we needed to leave soon.
I ran down to switch laundry and what do I find. Another puddle of water! Ahhh!
By this point I'm sweating and stressing because I know I'm going to be late. I texted Jamie and said I'd be 5 minutes late and then proceeded to get James bundled back up. Got him into his seat. Ran and moved the other van into the street and then hopped back in ours and made it only a few minutes late.
The appointment was great because I love chatting with Jamie and bonding over our crazy kids. James went to play in their little play room, and while he was in there he pooped, so I had to change him before leaving.
Once we left I called Roto Rooter and they're sending a guy in the morning. Thankfully, I think this is something with the washing machine. No sewage or sewage smells. Phew.
Got home and switched more laundry and then called State Farm to get our van insured AND to add rental insurance. If you don't have it I'd look into it.
Fed James lunch. Folded towels. Put away towels. Washed dishes. Put James down for a nap. Wrapped my mom, dad and Kendra's Christmas presents. Folded MORE laundry. By this time it was time to go get Daniel.
My back has been killing for weeks, but I finally couldn't take it. So many sharp shooting pains and muscle spasms. Jacob wasn't home so I dragged the boys along to Urgent Care. I'm so glad we have one in town. I now have some meds that I hope will help, but my body tends to not respond unless it's something super potent.
Then we had to venture back to Walmart and wait another 40 minutes.Not fun walking around when you just want to curl up in the ball and cry but I pushed through.
I did relax tonight. I went to start packing because you know I can't just chill. Instead I spent an hour laying on Daniel's bed. Probably a smarter idea. I can pack more tomorrow.
Please pray for our safety as we travel tomorrow and for my back as well.
Monday, November 20, 2017
Hallelujah!
Going to make this short and sweet tonight because it's been a long day and I have much to do tomorrow.
This morning I made a disaster in the boys' room. You know how you start to organize one little area and then next thing you know you've got everything strewn about all over the floor? Yeah. That happened. Purged some stuff. Put some stuff downstairs. Plus got all of their new games put away.
This afternoon I stress ate and watched an episode of Call the Midwife. (I only have one left to go. What will I watch next!?)
Picked up Daniel and dropped the boys' at a friends house again and then went home to pick up Jacob. Headed to Springfield for a test drive. I was very anxious today for some reason. Even after praying, I just had butterflies and had a headache. I think a lot of it was because I really was hoping this would be the one for us, but also trying not to get my hopes up.
I actually liked our salesman right off the bat. Zero pressure. Handed me the keys and off we went to test it out. In general all seemed to check out. It's a 2009 so 2 years newer than my old van, so of course it has its paint chips here and there. We were trying everything out, so I had the CD of our church Christmas music for the program with me. I stuck it in the CD player and it didn't work...and it wouldn't come back out! The salesman's face was great when he asked how we liked it and I said, "Well, it drove nice, but it ate my CD!" Needless to say, I knew I wanted the van if we could get the price where I wanted it and if they would fix the CD player.
The whole process was fairly painless. He asked if we were still looking elsewhere or had been looking. I said we had looked at some and would be looking at more, but would talk if he could make some kind of deal with us. After not too much negotiating they sold it to us for $1300 less. It was overpriced and I knew it from research, so was thankful that they didn't give us a hard. time. The gas tank was almost empty, so they filled it up for us and they got the CD out. I'll take it in next week sometime to have them look the CD player over. Overall, I'm thankful that my prayers were heard and God gave us a salesperson that wasn't pushy and who seemed fair and to the point. No run around.
Jacob got to drive the new van home, while I went to pick up the boys, who were having so much fun still that they didn't want to leave. Got home and realized James is a little kleptomaniac who stole an old cell phone from their house. Such a booger, that boy.
Long list of things to get accomplished tomorrow, so it's off to bed!
Sunday, November 19, 2017
Happy (Un)Birthday!
Too tired to load pictures from the day, so maybe tomorrow.
I made cinnamon rolls for Daniel's "un"birthday this morning, which he was really excited about last night. He loved the Mario decorations and that I put a candle in his cinnamon roll...which he didn't eat. But he was excited to have us sing "Happy Birthday" and blow out the candle.
Then boys and I went to church. I worked first service with the kiddos downstairs and then was able to go to second service. My back hurt so much I had to sit down before we were done singing and I spent most of the service shifting around. I should've run out and grabbed my back pillow from the van.
I needed to run to Walmart after church to grab a few things. I knew I needed AAA batteries for one of Daniel's birthday presents and some other stuff as well, so I dropped the boys at home with Jacob and then headed out. I swear, any trip to Walmart without kids is glorious.
Got home and James was still awake in his bed. I had a text from Brenda that they were close, so I got James up and once Mimi and Pa arrived the countdown was on until they could open presents. It was like Christmas around here. Daniel got his presents from us and Mimi and Pa, and then James got his presents from Mimi and Pa. I feel like there were a lot of winners. Fun games and books. A Fisher Price Movi for James (robot toy) and a space projector for Daniel were also some favorites!
We ordered Pizza Hut for supper and then had cupcakes and ice cream for dessert and sang another round of "Happy Birthday" to Daniel and his birthday buddy, Mimi!
Daniel and I played a few games after they left and we ended the night looking at planets and the sun, moon and solar system!
James passed out on me within 5 minutes of me reading him his books.
I'd say it was a very successful "un"birthday celebration!
I made cinnamon rolls for Daniel's "un"birthday this morning, which he was really excited about last night. He loved the Mario decorations and that I put a candle in his cinnamon roll...which he didn't eat. But he was excited to have us sing "Happy Birthday" and blow out the candle.
Then boys and I went to church. I worked first service with the kiddos downstairs and then was able to go to second service. My back hurt so much I had to sit down before we were done singing and I spent most of the service shifting around. I should've run out and grabbed my back pillow from the van.
I needed to run to Walmart after church to grab a few things. I knew I needed AAA batteries for one of Daniel's birthday presents and some other stuff as well, so I dropped the boys at home with Jacob and then headed out. I swear, any trip to Walmart without kids is glorious.
Got home and James was still awake in his bed. I had a text from Brenda that they were close, so I got James up and once Mimi and Pa arrived the countdown was on until they could open presents. It was like Christmas around here. Daniel got his presents from us and Mimi and Pa, and then James got his presents from Mimi and Pa. I feel like there were a lot of winners. Fun games and books. A Fisher Price Movi for James (robot toy) and a space projector for Daniel were also some favorites!
We ordered Pizza Hut for supper and then had cupcakes and ice cream for dessert and sang another round of "Happy Birthday" to Daniel and his birthday buddy, Mimi!
Daniel and I played a few games after they left and we ended the night looking at planets and the sun, moon and solar system!
James passed out on me within 5 minutes of me reading him his books.
I'd say it was a very successful "un"birthday celebration!
Saturday, November 18, 2017
Crazy Saturday
My day:
Times are not fully accurate :)
Times are not fully accurate :)
12:30am--Daniel has a bad dream and climbs in bed.
6:30am--Daniel wakes me up to see if it's Saturday or Sunday. Then proceeds to talk my ear off until I made him go watch tv.
7:30am: James yells, "Mommy! Help! I on my dresser again. Get me down!"
8:00am: Eat breakfast and listen to the boys fight about who knows what.
9:00am: I move the table and chairs out to the porch and vacuum the dining room.
9:15am: I look outside to the see the coolest sky. It was sunny on one side of the house and dark on the other. I ran outside to snap a picture of it.
9:16am: Wind starts gusting, sky turns overcast. Craziest downpour of rain ever.
9:20am: Roto Rooter guy shows up 3 hours early to fix the drain. Yay! He works out in the rain and flushes the line 5 times. He tells me I'm good to go. Woohoo!
10:00am: I run down to clean up the mess from last night. Then start a small load of laundry.
10:20am: Check to make sure laundry is draining... NOPE. Turn off washer and go upstairs to meet the lady who was coming for our table.
10:35am: Lady shows up for table. I tell the boys to stay inside. Boys of course follow me outside and are running all over like crazy people.
10:45am: Call Roto Rooter and talk to the manager. Tell him that my washer is backing up all over the place. Hear an audible sigh on the other end because they LOVE me over there. I said, "I don't understand why this is happening!" to which he replied, "I don't either, but I'll send him back to you." Mind you, the guy had to come back from another job in Springfield.
12:00pm: We made it to lunch time. We didn't have a table so we had a picnic in the kitchen. It was mostly the boys getting up and down and stealing each other's chips, but they thought it was fun!
12:30: Roto Rooter guy comes back. I greeted him with "Long time no see!" He apologized profusely. Came in and realized the clog was inside and not outside. He promised not to leave until he was positive it was fixed. The boys followed me downstairs and James proceeded to throw a laundry basket over his head and kept trying to play Peek-a-Boo with the guy. Then threw a fit when I made him come back upstairs.
12:35pm: Problem solved. Thank the Lord!
1:30pm: Nap and rest time. Can I get an AMEN?
2:00pm: Start watching Grey's Anatomy. Of course the hospital computers got hacked. Haha!
2:10pm: I start yelling, "DANIEL!!" He comes running out thinking he's in trouble. I told him to look out the window. Huge snowflakes were falling. We squealed with excitement! It didn't last long, but it was awesome.
4:10pm: Our new table got delivered. Thankfully I had this all paid for when I ordered it several weeks ago. One less thing to stress about and one more thing to be happy about!
4:40pm: Did some dishes and learned that my kids don't like me blaring and belting out, "All I Want For Christmas Is You!" Too bad kiddos. Too bad.
5:00pm: Fed the little gremlins supper at the new table while I was terrified with every move they made that they would scratch it.
6:30pm: Momma gets to shower which is like bonus quiet time.
7:45pm: Get Daniel tucked in.
8:00pm: Start decorating for Daniel's "pretend" birthday tomorrow. James "helped"
8:30pm: Jacob gets home. Timer goes off. Stinking cinnamon rolls were already starting to burn. Wahhh!
9:00pm: Finally get James tucked into bed.
9:45pm: I finish this post.
Friday, November 17, 2017
Life Can Be a Pain
I'm kind of down tonight, so I don't have anything witty to say.
We're still looking for a replacement vehicle. So far I've tested two. The one yesterday was a let down. It had some great extras, but it was dirty and had some other issues. I kept trying to tell myself that if they said they would fix stuff maybe it would be okay. The more I thought on it last night though, I realized that wasn't it. I asked God to make it clear to me, and both times I just didn't feel right.
Also, can we just talk about car salespeople? I know they're just people working to make a living, but they creep me out. I couldn't do it. I can't hover and pressure people. Yesterday the guy was ready to hop in the back and go with us. He popped his head in the passenger door was like, "Mind if I come along!?" I was just like, "Ummm...can't we just go alone?" Pretty sure he was disappointed about that. We did get a nice kid free supper though, which was nice. I didn't have to play "I Spy" and deal with whining and crying.
Next week we'll do some more looking. If we don't find anything, we'll be hitting the road in our friend's car so they can have their van back for their trip. I'm just truly thankful for their family.
On top of vehicle stuff, our drain started backing up from doing laundry. Something is clogged up and the plumber has to come tomorrow. This old house and its plumbing is killing me. I hope it's only something easy, but is it ever? I swear if they have to dig up our yard for a third time I'm going to just lose it.
Then as the cherry on top, my back pain is getting worse by the day again. Chronic pain sucks. Even on the best days it's still there. But when it gets this bad, it really makes life hard. My hips have hurt badly too, which is causing shooting pains into my legs and feet. I struggle taking care of myself, because I feel like I need to do so much for my kids and make sure my house is cleaned. I wanted to put the Christmas tree up next week before we leave, but I think it's going to have to wait.
I'm pretty good at hiding my pain from other people. Most people wouldn't have a clue. Only my family hears the moaning and whining when I'm hurting. I mean, I still have to live, and I don't generally like to ask for help, so why let others know how much I hurt?
I may end up at Urgent Care in hopes of some pain relief. It doesn't help much usually. There's only one drug I've found that helps and there's no way I'll straight up ask for it because it's an opioid and I feel like you get major side eye if you ask for an addictive drug. I know in my heart of hearts I need another MRI or something, but even if they tell me that, it'll probably come back "normal" minus my giant curve which we already know is there. And when you don't have actual insurance it makes all of these costly things a bit scarier. I think through my medical sharing group that a lot can be covered, but it'll come out of pocket before being reimbursed.
So...if you think about it, I would appreciate prayers.
We're still looking for a replacement vehicle. So far I've tested two. The one yesterday was a let down. It had some great extras, but it was dirty and had some other issues. I kept trying to tell myself that if they said they would fix stuff maybe it would be okay. The more I thought on it last night though, I realized that wasn't it. I asked God to make it clear to me, and both times I just didn't feel right.
Also, can we just talk about car salespeople? I know they're just people working to make a living, but they creep me out. I couldn't do it. I can't hover and pressure people. Yesterday the guy was ready to hop in the back and go with us. He popped his head in the passenger door was like, "Mind if I come along!?" I was just like, "Ummm...can't we just go alone?" Pretty sure he was disappointed about that. We did get a nice kid free supper though, which was nice. I didn't have to play "I Spy" and deal with whining and crying.
Next week we'll do some more looking. If we don't find anything, we'll be hitting the road in our friend's car so they can have their van back for their trip. I'm just truly thankful for their family.
On top of vehicle stuff, our drain started backing up from doing laundry. Something is clogged up and the plumber has to come tomorrow. This old house and its plumbing is killing me. I hope it's only something easy, but is it ever? I swear if they have to dig up our yard for a third time I'm going to just lose it.
Then as the cherry on top, my back pain is getting worse by the day again. Chronic pain sucks. Even on the best days it's still there. But when it gets this bad, it really makes life hard. My hips have hurt badly too, which is causing shooting pains into my legs and feet. I struggle taking care of myself, because I feel like I need to do so much for my kids and make sure my house is cleaned. I wanted to put the Christmas tree up next week before we leave, but I think it's going to have to wait.
I'm pretty good at hiding my pain from other people. Most people wouldn't have a clue. Only my family hears the moaning and whining when I'm hurting. I mean, I still have to live, and I don't generally like to ask for help, so why let others know how much I hurt?
I may end up at Urgent Care in hopes of some pain relief. It doesn't help much usually. There's only one drug I've found that helps and there's no way I'll straight up ask for it because it's an opioid and I feel like you get major side eye if you ask for an addictive drug. I know in my heart of hearts I need another MRI or something, but even if they tell me that, it'll probably come back "normal" minus my giant curve which we already know is there. And when you don't have actual insurance it makes all of these costly things a bit scarier. I think through my medical sharing group that a lot can be covered, but it'll come out of pocket before being reimbursed.
So...if you think about it, I would appreciate prayers.
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Never Have I Ever
Random things I have never done:
Never have I ever:
Never have I ever:
- smoked a cigarette
- driven a stick shift
- correctly parallel parked
- gotten drunk
- tried drugs
- worn a bikini
- gotten a speeding ticket or been pulled over for speeding
- cooked a turkey
- roller bladed
- gone parasailing...but I want too!
- watched Star Wars (except the first part of one, and then I fell asleep)
- had a true broken bone *knock on wood*
- been able to sew
- liked Peeps. Ew.
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Looking for a New Ride
You know what's great? When you turn your problems over to God and trust Him and you start to really see Him work!
Now, most of you know that I'm a worrier and I panic. Giving stuff to God is not easy for me, because I struggle sitting back and waiting. This isn't to say that I don't have my moments. I do, but I've learned that when I start feeling upset that I need to slow down and say a quick prayer or look up a Bible verse.
The accident stuff is finally all coming together. I got a call yesterday with an offer from our insurance company on what they were willing to pay out on the van since it was declared a total loss. I talked to the most amazing guy who walked me through everything step by step. He tried to make things as easy as possible for me. He asked if I had a chance to get our belongings out of it and I said yes, but there were a couple of things I forgot, and that I would go and get them as soon as possible. He was like, "You have little kids. I'm going to mark it down to be towed on Thursday so you have time and don't have to hurry yourself." I know it's silly, but one kind gesture can really mean a lot to someone.
I started looking online for used vans in our area. We can't afford anything more that pretty much what we had, but that's okay with me.
I scheduled one test drive for today and Jacob stayed home with the boys. I read up today on how to deal with car sales people. I needed to prepare. Ha! This is the first time I've gone to a dealer on my own. All in all it wasn't bad at all. I asked a few questions. I gave direct answers to his questions and didn't engage in any personal talk. I went out for a drive. I parked nearby so I could really check stuff out and make sure everything worked. I drove down the highway a couple of miles. Coming back I passed the spot that the accident happened. I think I'll always flashback to that day when I drive by.
Then, I drove home so Jacob could look at it. Overall I liked it...but I didn't love it. It has many pros and a couple of cons.
We have another drive scheduled tomorrow. A friend from church is going to watch the boys. I'm hopeful that maybe this will be the one. If not, well then it wasn't meant to be. I'm praying that God will give me a clear answer on the vehicle and will help us get to the price we want. My prayer is we have a vehicle before we go to Iowa next Wednesday.
After I took the van back to the dealership, I went to get stuff from my old van. For some reason my emotions hit me tonight. Really all day. I think I've cried 3 times. Silly to cry over a car, but I did for just a minute and then I was okay!
In the midst of the car stuff, I still need to get to Springfield this week because I need decorations for Daniel's "early" birthday as he's calling it. We're celebrating on Sunday and he picked a Mario theme. I may have to go tomorrow morning. Not to mention I have to wrap his presents.
And we're sort of officially potty training! James went 4 times yesterday and a couple of times today. I make a huge deal out of it every time. I have told him for weeks if he pees on the potty I'll get him chocolate ice cream from DQ, so as soon as he peed yesterday he yelled, "I DID it! Now I get my ice cream from Dairy Queen?" He sure did. Thankfully he hasn't asked for it again. One time deal!
Now, most of you know that I'm a worrier and I panic. Giving stuff to God is not easy for me, because I struggle sitting back and waiting. This isn't to say that I don't have my moments. I do, but I've learned that when I start feeling upset that I need to slow down and say a quick prayer or look up a Bible verse.
The accident stuff is finally all coming together. I got a call yesterday with an offer from our insurance company on what they were willing to pay out on the van since it was declared a total loss. I talked to the most amazing guy who walked me through everything step by step. He tried to make things as easy as possible for me. He asked if I had a chance to get our belongings out of it and I said yes, but there were a couple of things I forgot, and that I would go and get them as soon as possible. He was like, "You have little kids. I'm going to mark it down to be towed on Thursday so you have time and don't have to hurry yourself." I know it's silly, but one kind gesture can really mean a lot to someone.
I started looking online for used vans in our area. We can't afford anything more that pretty much what we had, but that's okay with me.
I scheduled one test drive for today and Jacob stayed home with the boys. I read up today on how to deal with car sales people. I needed to prepare. Ha! This is the first time I've gone to a dealer on my own. All in all it wasn't bad at all. I asked a few questions. I gave direct answers to his questions and didn't engage in any personal talk. I went out for a drive. I parked nearby so I could really check stuff out and make sure everything worked. I drove down the highway a couple of miles. Coming back I passed the spot that the accident happened. I think I'll always flashback to that day when I drive by.
Then, I drove home so Jacob could look at it. Overall I liked it...but I didn't love it. It has many pros and a couple of cons.
We have another drive scheduled tomorrow. A friend from church is going to watch the boys. I'm hopeful that maybe this will be the one. If not, well then it wasn't meant to be. I'm praying that God will give me a clear answer on the vehicle and will help us get to the price we want. My prayer is we have a vehicle before we go to Iowa next Wednesday.
After I took the van back to the dealership, I went to get stuff from my old van. For some reason my emotions hit me tonight. Really all day. I think I've cried 3 times. Silly to cry over a car, but I did for just a minute and then I was okay!
In the midst of the car stuff, I still need to get to Springfield this week because I need decorations for Daniel's "early" birthday as he's calling it. We're celebrating on Sunday and he picked a Mario theme. I may have to go tomorrow morning. Not to mention I have to wrap his presents.
And we're sort of officially potty training! James went 4 times yesterday and a couple of times today. I make a huge deal out of it every time. I have told him for weeks if he pees on the potty I'll get him chocolate ice cream from DQ, so as soon as he peed yesterday he yelled, "I DID it! Now I get my ice cream from Dairy Queen?" He sure did. Thankfully he hasn't asked for it again. One time deal!
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
It's Your Turn!
I'm once again feeling uninspired, so I figured if you're actually reading this I would give you an assignment.
You can answer any or all of these in the comment section of Facebook or here on my blog.
1. What's your favorite memory with me?
2. I need some ideas for things to blog. What subjects would you like me to ramble about? Any burning questions about me that you just need to have answered?
3. What should I be when I grow up? I just don't know. I need a career that I love for when the boys are older. A job that doesn't require me to stand on my feet or lift heavy objects.
4. What's your favorite Bible verse?
5. What should I watch on Netflix when I finish Call the Midwife? I hate the hole in my heart when I finish a series!
There you go. Hit me up with some good answers. :)
You can answer any or all of these in the comment section of Facebook or here on my blog.
1. What's your favorite memory with me?
2. I need some ideas for things to blog. What subjects would you like me to ramble about? Any burning questions about me that you just need to have answered?
3. What should I be when I grow up? I just don't know. I need a career that I love for when the boys are older. A job that doesn't require me to stand on my feet or lift heavy objects.
4. What's your favorite Bible verse?
5. What should I watch on Netflix when I finish Call the Midwife? I hate the hole in my heart when I finish a series!
There you go. Hit me up with some good answers. :)
Monday, November 13, 2017
Just Life in My World
This past weekend was a long one. The boys were crazy and constantly fighting and by last night I thought my head would explode if I heard, "MOM!" or "Hey! Give it back! I had it first!" one more time.
Thankfully, on Saturday we were able to go outside and play. We spent an hour and a half playing in leaves and taking and walk and I was able to play with my camera. I didn't have the most willing participants, but I still got some cute pictures and we got some fresh air.
Because of our outside play time we had a late lunch, which meant a late nap for James, and boy was he a beast to put down.
While we were eating lunch, Kendra called me, which she rarely does. I figured she accidentally called me, but when I answered she was crying. Someone stole her car from the Walmart parking lot. Or so she thought. Police were called. Mom and dad came to her rescue, and then she discovered her car right where she had parked it. She just forgot where that was! We had a good laugh over that one.
Yesterday morning the boys and I were up bright and early. Like, I was actually up and dressed before 7. Miracles can happen, people. We had to be at church by 7:45 so I could practice for praise team. I loved getting to sing! And even better we have 2 services so I got to do it twice. I'm happy that I took my next step.
Today, I was able to leave James home when I took Daniel to school because Jacob had a personal day. Then I spent the next hour strolling through Walmart kid free. It's really amazing what an hour of mundane shopping can do for you when you've been on mom duty 24-7 alone for 3 or 4 days.
We're still waiting to hear from insurance, but I logged into our account tonight and saw they finally had the estimate in their system. Over $3,000 in damages and it would be another $4000 on top of that for repairs, so now we wait to settle and I would appreciate any prayers for the process. I'm nervous we won't get much back on it and I'm also worried about finding a replacement we can afford and is reliable. I also know God already knows the outcome and He's working for our good so I'll keep praying too.
I have quite a bit I need to do this week including getting Daniel's birthday presents wrapped. We'll be in Iowa for his birthday, so we'll celebrate here this Sunday! I can't believe he'll be 6!
Sunday, November 12, 2017
ABC's of Parenting
I'm a firm believer that keeping a sense of humor can get you through just about anything. I present to you the ABC's of Parenting.
A is for Advil.
You'll be needing plenty of these to survive all of the headaches you'll get from breaking up fights.
B is for Bath Time.
This is the time of day or night where your child will become part whale and your bathroom floor gets hit by a tidal wave.
C is for Cartoons.
You know you're a parent when you can name all of the current popular cartoon characters and even have your own favorites. You may sometimes catch yourself engrossed in an episode and discover your child has left the room.
D is for Diaper Pails
These things are complete garbage. They work well at first, until your kid starts eating solid foods. Trust me. You're better off tossing the diapers out the backdoor in a Walmart bag like I do.
E is for Exhaustion
Everyone will tell you in the beginning that this will pass. Everyone is lying. Kids cause permanent exhaustion! And if you try to hide from them because you need a break...they will hunt you down.
F is for Family Pictures
Take it from me. Most of those picture perfect shots did not happen in a picture perfect way. Brace yourself for runaway toddlers, tears and sass. The end result is usually worth it, but you may need about a pound of chocolate to calm yourself down later. Not that I would know or anything...
G is for Goldfish Crackers
The ultimate toddler snack. Pepperidge Farms has laced these things with crack or something because I've never met a kid who didn't like them. You will find these crackers in cushions, car seats and sometimes stuffed into diapers, but the crumbs are worth a few minutes of sanity.
H is for Happy Meals
Let's face it. McDonald's has been making kids happy for years by giving them chicken nuggets, fries and a cheap piece of crap toy that they will love for the duration of the day. Happy meals work well in bribery situations.
Pro Tip: When your kids aren't home, go through cheap toys throw them away. 9 times out of 10 they don't ever notice. The time they do, you play dumb and eventually they stop asking. You're welcome.
Just don't get caught!
I is for Ink Stains
If your child can grasp a pencil/pen/marker...they will draw on things that aren't meant to be drawn on. Chairs, tables, computer screens.
J is for Jungle Gym
Not the ones at the park. You. You will become their personal jungle gym. The minute you sit down these little monkeys will be climbing up all over you and sometimes leaving little bruises behind.
K is for "Knock it off!"
A phrase you will say countless times when your kids are trying to kill each other over who gets to open the door. Or when you ask them to please be quiet and instead they start banging a toy hammer on the table while singing, "I can't hear you!"
L is for Leaking
Fellow breastfeeding moms will get that. There's nothing more fun than to be out in public and realize you got nice round wet stains on your shirt.
M is for Movie Night
When you used to pick Taken or Silence of the Lambs, and now you find yourself watching Trolls for the 100th time...and singing along.
N is for Negotiations
You may find yourselves in these types of stand-offs with your toddler at any given time.
"If you take 3 bites of your applesauce, I'll let you have a donut!"
O is for OxyClean
This stuff is key. It'll get out poop, puke, blood, grass stains and just about any other disgusting thing your child can get themselves into.
P is for Poop
1/4 of parenting is cleaning up poop, talking about your child's poop and making poop jokes with your kids. There are 2 poops that you will never be prepared for.
The Blowout. Sure, sometimes it's just a little leak, but sometimes there is literally poop from their necks to their toes and you've got to figure out where to even start with that mess. Bath? Bedding? The poop covered child? Burn the clothes or use the OxyClean?
The Sick Child Poop. Nothing will prepare you from the smells that will come from those kiddos. It's like hot garbage. The smell clings to everything and you may find yourself opening windows when it's only 25 degrees out to try to get rid of it.
Q is for Quiet Time
That time of day when your little angel(s) take a nap or rest time. The time you can sit down and watch a grown up show and eat snacks. Never fear though. If your kiddo just has a rest time, they will appear every 5 minutes or so to see what you're doing, or ask you the most random questions they can think of.
R is for Road Trip
Yay road trips! Who doesn't love hitting the road? Let's throw in kids! Well, my kids are awesome travelers, but that doesn't mean there isn't stress. The amount of stuff I have to pack and bring along is downright embarrassing. But hey...you might need those 13 outfits for a 2 day trip!
S is for Sippy Cups
First you have to go through the battle of finding the perfect one. Every cup claims to not leak and yet you will go through so many spills. Then you'll think you found the perfect cup, and then discover that it's growing mold and mildew in parts you can't clean. THEN you will find the perfect cup and your child will promptly lose it.
T is for Tantrums
You haven't parented long enough if you've never had to abandon your cart in Target and drag your 3 year old with a baby in tow all the way through the store while they scream, "WE ARE NOT LEAVING!!!!!!!!!!!! COME BACK HERE!!! I WANT IT!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"
U is for Use Your Words
Another phrase uttered by parents when their kids are tantruming. Around here that usually results in more screaming and incoherent rage.
V is for Vanish
The thing any stay at home parent want to do after a long and trying day with the kids.
W is for Winter in the Midwest
The time of year that you spend 25 minutes getting snow pants, coats, hats, mittens, and boots on your kids because they're begging to play in the snow and then they either decide right after that, that they have to pee or they will play for 10 minutes and want to go in.
X is for X-Rays
You hope your kiddo won't need any, but then they do something like fall off a tall slide and crack their head open.
Y is for YUCK.
Feed your kids anything new and you'll more than likely hear that word along with, "I don't like that! I'm not eating it!"
Z is for Zipper.
Because for some reason they tend to forget the fly after using the bathroom.
A is for Advil.
You'll be needing plenty of these to survive all of the headaches you'll get from breaking up fights.
B is for Bath Time.
This is the time of day or night where your child will become part whale and your bathroom floor gets hit by a tidal wave.
C is for Cartoons.
You know you're a parent when you can name all of the current popular cartoon characters and even have your own favorites. You may sometimes catch yourself engrossed in an episode and discover your child has left the room.
D is for Diaper Pails
These things are complete garbage. They work well at first, until your kid starts eating solid foods. Trust me. You're better off tossing the diapers out the backdoor in a Walmart bag like I do.
E is for Exhaustion
Everyone will tell you in the beginning that this will pass. Everyone is lying. Kids cause permanent exhaustion! And if you try to hide from them because you need a break...they will hunt you down.
F is for Family Pictures
Take it from me. Most of those picture perfect shots did not happen in a picture perfect way. Brace yourself for runaway toddlers, tears and sass. The end result is usually worth it, but you may need about a pound of chocolate to calm yourself down later. Not that I would know or anything...
G is for Goldfish Crackers
The ultimate toddler snack. Pepperidge Farms has laced these things with crack or something because I've never met a kid who didn't like them. You will find these crackers in cushions, car seats and sometimes stuffed into diapers, but the crumbs are worth a few minutes of sanity.
H is for Happy Meals
Let's face it. McDonald's has been making kids happy for years by giving them chicken nuggets, fries and a cheap piece of crap toy that they will love for the duration of the day. Happy meals work well in bribery situations.
Pro Tip: When your kids aren't home, go through cheap toys throw them away. 9 times out of 10 they don't ever notice. The time they do, you play dumb and eventually they stop asking. You're welcome.
Just don't get caught!
I is for Ink Stains
If your child can grasp a pencil/pen/marker...they will draw on things that aren't meant to be drawn on. Chairs, tables, computer screens.
J is for Jungle Gym
Not the ones at the park. You. You will become their personal jungle gym. The minute you sit down these little monkeys will be climbing up all over you and sometimes leaving little bruises behind.
K is for "Knock it off!"
A phrase you will say countless times when your kids are trying to kill each other over who gets to open the door. Or when you ask them to please be quiet and instead they start banging a toy hammer on the table while singing, "I can't hear you!"
L is for Leaking
Fellow breastfeeding moms will get that. There's nothing more fun than to be out in public and realize you got nice round wet stains on your shirt.
M is for Movie Night
When you used to pick Taken or Silence of the Lambs, and now you find yourself watching Trolls for the 100th time...and singing along.
N is for Negotiations
You may find yourselves in these types of stand-offs with your toddler at any given time.
"If you take 3 bites of your applesauce, I'll let you have a donut!"
O is for OxyClean
This stuff is key. It'll get out poop, puke, blood, grass stains and just about any other disgusting thing your child can get themselves into.
P is for Poop
1/4 of parenting is cleaning up poop, talking about your child's poop and making poop jokes with your kids. There are 2 poops that you will never be prepared for.
The Blowout. Sure, sometimes it's just a little leak, but sometimes there is literally poop from their necks to their toes and you've got to figure out where to even start with that mess. Bath? Bedding? The poop covered child? Burn the clothes or use the OxyClean?
The Sick Child Poop. Nothing will prepare you from the smells that will come from those kiddos. It's like hot garbage. The smell clings to everything and you may find yourself opening windows when it's only 25 degrees out to try to get rid of it.
Q is for Quiet Time
That time of day when your little angel(s) take a nap or rest time. The time you can sit down and watch a grown up show and eat snacks. Never fear though. If your kiddo just has a rest time, they will appear every 5 minutes or so to see what you're doing, or ask you the most random questions they can think of.
R is for Road Trip
Yay road trips! Who doesn't love hitting the road? Let's throw in kids! Well, my kids are awesome travelers, but that doesn't mean there isn't stress. The amount of stuff I have to pack and bring along is downright embarrassing. But hey...you might need those 13 outfits for a 2 day trip!
S is for Sippy Cups
First you have to go through the battle of finding the perfect one. Every cup claims to not leak and yet you will go through so many spills. Then you'll think you found the perfect cup, and then discover that it's growing mold and mildew in parts you can't clean. THEN you will find the perfect cup and your child will promptly lose it.
T is for Tantrums
You haven't parented long enough if you've never had to abandon your cart in Target and drag your 3 year old with a baby in tow all the way through the store while they scream, "WE ARE NOT LEAVING!!!!!!!!!!!! COME BACK HERE!!! I WANT IT!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"
U is for Use Your Words
Another phrase uttered by parents when their kids are tantruming. Around here that usually results in more screaming and incoherent rage.
V is for Vanish
The thing any stay at home parent want to do after a long and trying day with the kids.
W is for Winter in the Midwest
The time of year that you spend 25 minutes getting snow pants, coats, hats, mittens, and boots on your kids because they're begging to play in the snow and then they either decide right after that, that they have to pee or they will play for 10 minutes and want to go in.
X is for X-Rays
You hope your kiddo won't need any, but then they do something like fall off a tall slide and crack their head open.
Y is for YUCK.
Feed your kids anything new and you'll more than likely hear that word along with, "I don't like that! I'm not eating it!"
Z is for Zipper.
Because for some reason they tend to forget the fly after using the bathroom.
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Finding Home
I have a confession. Some people already know this, but some people haven't known me as long. I moved to Illinois when Jacob and I got married. I moved from a city of 130,000 people to a town of 11,000. I HATED it here. Hated. It.
Sure, I was excited that I was married and that we had a new house. I was happy that I convinced Jacob to live in Taylorville rather than Assumption/Moweaqua because I couldn't imagine living in a town of less than 2,000 people!
I felt lost and alone. We went to church in Assumption on Sundays and had a few friends, but in town I had no one but Jacob and I missed my friends in Iowa. I cried a lot. After a few months I started a job at the daycare, and I started to get to know some people, but then I felt like I was still alone when I wasn't working. I did eventually make some friends at work and even a best friend!
I hated not living close to stores besides Walmart (and quite honestly I still kinda dislike that a lot).
We stopped going to church when I was about 6 months pregnant with Daniel. Then I quit my job to be a stay at home mom. The stay at home mom part was great and when he was born, I started to feel a little less alone. I had someone who was with me and needed me all day long. But, I was still missing something and wished I had some mom friends.
I tried to find a mom group in town, but there was nothing. No churches offered anything. I would have to drive to Springfield if I wanted to join a group. That just made my hate grow for Taylorville. There was nothing for me. Or so it felt.
After awhile, I started venturing out with Daniel. I'd take him on walks in the stroller and we'd explore. I had kind of just lived in this little bubble the first couple of years I lived here. I didn't go a lot of places, so this was kind of an adventure.
Finally I decided to get a small part time job at the Y. And while I didn't really love my job there, I made a lot of connections with people, and have stayed in contact with several of my families. I started feeling like maybe I was becoming a part of the community.
Daniel and I continued our adventures. I discovered that we have 3 parks and not just the one I thought we had. We started going to the library to read books, check out books and even join in for story time when we could.
While I found all of these connections to the community helpful and comforting, it wasn't until a little over 2 years ago when I started going to Calvary that I finally felt like I was at home. Funny, that I lived 2 miles from the church that would make my heart content, but it took me 6 years to walk through the doors. God put it on my heart several times over the years. Especially after we stopped going to church at all. Every year we took Daniel to Trunk or Treat, and I'd always kind of wonder what it would be like to go to church there.
I've now lived in Taylorville for 8.5 years and I can finally say that I really love it.
I love seeing familiar faces. I enjoy some of the small businesses in town. It's beautiful in the Fall. I love our brick roads...even though it feels like you may have lost car parts driving over them sometimes. And, I of course love Christmas in the Park every year! We always go on Christmas Eve. There's so much more that I love, and so little that I dislike now.
It's not to say that Taylorville doesn't have any problems, but really everywhere does. And yes, our house is on the market and we're now looking in Moweaqua...which means eventually I'll have to learn to call another town home. I'm content here until God says that it's time. I confess, I've been kind of happy that he's been keeping us here longer.
Here are 3 bonus confessions for the locals. Since living here I have never eaten at Bill's Toasty or Tastee Treet (except a few bites of ice cream a coworker shared one time). And I have never eaten a "horseshoe" nor did I know what one was until I moved here! If anyone wants to right my wrongs, feel free to introduce me to what I've been missing.
Sure, I was excited that I was married and that we had a new house. I was happy that I convinced Jacob to live in Taylorville rather than Assumption/Moweaqua because I couldn't imagine living in a town of less than 2,000 people!
I felt lost and alone. We went to church in Assumption on Sundays and had a few friends, but in town I had no one but Jacob and I missed my friends in Iowa. I cried a lot. After a few months I started a job at the daycare, and I started to get to know some people, but then I felt like I was still alone when I wasn't working. I did eventually make some friends at work and even a best friend!
I hated not living close to stores besides Walmart (and quite honestly I still kinda dislike that a lot).
We stopped going to church when I was about 6 months pregnant with Daniel. Then I quit my job to be a stay at home mom. The stay at home mom part was great and when he was born, I started to feel a little less alone. I had someone who was with me and needed me all day long. But, I was still missing something and wished I had some mom friends.
I tried to find a mom group in town, but there was nothing. No churches offered anything. I would have to drive to Springfield if I wanted to join a group. That just made my hate grow for Taylorville. There was nothing for me. Or so it felt.
After awhile, I started venturing out with Daniel. I'd take him on walks in the stroller and we'd explore. I had kind of just lived in this little bubble the first couple of years I lived here. I didn't go a lot of places, so this was kind of an adventure.
Finally I decided to get a small part time job at the Y. And while I didn't really love my job there, I made a lot of connections with people, and have stayed in contact with several of my families. I started feeling like maybe I was becoming a part of the community.
Daniel and I continued our adventures. I discovered that we have 3 parks and not just the one I thought we had. We started going to the library to read books, check out books and even join in for story time when we could.
While I found all of these connections to the community helpful and comforting, it wasn't until a little over 2 years ago when I started going to Calvary that I finally felt like I was at home. Funny, that I lived 2 miles from the church that would make my heart content, but it took me 6 years to walk through the doors. God put it on my heart several times over the years. Especially after we stopped going to church at all. Every year we took Daniel to Trunk or Treat, and I'd always kind of wonder what it would be like to go to church there.
I've now lived in Taylorville for 8.5 years and I can finally say that I really love it.
I love seeing familiar faces. I enjoy some of the small businesses in town. It's beautiful in the Fall. I love our brick roads...even though it feels like you may have lost car parts driving over them sometimes. And, I of course love Christmas in the Park every year! We always go on Christmas Eve. There's so much more that I love, and so little that I dislike now.
It's not to say that Taylorville doesn't have any problems, but really everywhere does. And yes, our house is on the market and we're now looking in Moweaqua...which means eventually I'll have to learn to call another town home. I'm content here until God says that it's time. I confess, I've been kind of happy that he's been keeping us here longer.
Here are 3 bonus confessions for the locals. Since living here I have never eaten at Bill's Toasty or Tastee Treet (except a few bites of ice cream a coworker shared one time). And I have never eaten a "horseshoe" nor did I know what one was until I moved here! If anyone wants to right my wrongs, feel free to introduce me to what I've been missing.
Friday, November 10, 2017
Finally Friday
Let's just be honest here. It's been a long week. Today was the first day I really didn't stress about the car accident. I also didn't hear anything from insurance, so I'm giving myself a break this weekend. No stress about the van/lack of van situation.
I thought today would be fairly relaxing. The only thing I had to do that I didn't want to was go to WalMart to get food and other needed things. James decided that today would be the perfect day to be an extra sassy "threenager". There were meltdowns about getting diapers changed, getting dressed, breakfast, washcloths, door opening, picking up, water bottles, wanting in the van, wanting out of the van, wanting to go to the store, not wanting to go the store. There were meltdowns over riding in the cart, me apparently walking in the wrong direction, a toy, Oreos, and on and on. That was all before 10 this morning!
I survived the store. I got everything put away. We played. I started online Christmas shopping/birthday shopping. Got a little cleaning in. And I had James play with food. Yep. Doctor suggested making food something for him to explore. Out of 5 things he touched them all. Put one thing in this mouth and spit it all down himself and onto the floor. That was interesting.
I decided to get him down for a nap early and then caught up on Grey's from last night.
After school until bedtime it was just a free for all. We did some playing and watched some TV. The musical is this weekend so Jacob wasn't home at all.
That's really about all. Nothing profound today.
Here's a little survey thing just for kicks, then I'm gonna plop down on the couch since the TV is free for once, and watch Call the Midwife.
1. What’ your middle name? Lynn
2. Last time you cried? Monday
3. What's your favorite pizza? Cheese or pepperoni. Taco sometimes too!
4. Favorite flower? Sunflowers
6. Did you go to camp? HAHAHAHAHA!!! No.
7. Untie your shoes when taking them off? Nope. I don't even untie them to put them back on Just slip them on and off.
8. Roller coasters? Not as much anymore. I'm getting old and my back and hips hurt too much.
9. Favorite ice cream? Right now? The new DQ Blizzard. Oreo Hot Chocolate. Oh. My. Gosh. One of the girls at church got me hooked. Thanks, Maddy!
10. Favorite thing to do? Go to the bathroom or shower without getting interrupted.
11. Shorts or jeans? Shorts
12. Country or rock? Country
13. Favorite Color? Teal!
14. Tattoos? 0
15. Color of hair? Brown, with grey hairs popping up all over!
16. Color of eyes? Brown
17. Favorite thing to eat? Depends. Basically if it's a carb, I'll eat it. Chips, chocolate, bread, tacos. All the food.
18. Favorite holiday? Christmas!
19 Beer or wine? Neither
20. Night owl or morning? Neither? Night owl probably.
21. Favorite day of the week? Sunday
22. Do you have a nickname? Rach I guess?
I thought today would be fairly relaxing. The only thing I had to do that I didn't want to was go to WalMart to get food and other needed things. James decided that today would be the perfect day to be an extra sassy "threenager". There were meltdowns about getting diapers changed, getting dressed, breakfast, washcloths, door opening, picking up, water bottles, wanting in the van, wanting out of the van, wanting to go to the store, not wanting to go the store. There were meltdowns over riding in the cart, me apparently walking in the wrong direction, a toy, Oreos, and on and on. That was all before 10 this morning!
I survived the store. I got everything put away. We played. I started online Christmas shopping/birthday shopping. Got a little cleaning in. And I had James play with food. Yep. Doctor suggested making food something for him to explore. Out of 5 things he touched them all. Put one thing in this mouth and spit it all down himself and onto the floor. That was interesting.
I decided to get him down for a nap early and then caught up on Grey's from last night.
After school until bedtime it was just a free for all. We did some playing and watched some TV. The musical is this weekend so Jacob wasn't home at all.
That's really about all. Nothing profound today.
Here's a little survey thing just for kicks, then I'm gonna plop down on the couch since the TV is free for once, and watch Call the Midwife.
1. What’ your middle name? Lynn
2. Last time you cried? Monday
3. What's your favorite pizza? Cheese or pepperoni. Taco sometimes too!
4. Favorite flower? Sunflowers
6. Did you go to camp? HAHAHAHAHA!!! No.
7. Untie your shoes when taking them off? Nope. I don't even untie them to put them back on Just slip them on and off.
8. Roller coasters? Not as much anymore. I'm getting old and my back and hips hurt too much.
9. Favorite ice cream? Right now? The new DQ Blizzard. Oreo Hot Chocolate. Oh. My. Gosh. One of the girls at church got me hooked. Thanks, Maddy!
10. Favorite thing to do? Go to the bathroom or shower without getting interrupted.
11. Shorts or jeans? Shorts
12. Country or rock? Country
13. Favorite Color? Teal!
14. Tattoos? 0
15. Color of hair? Brown, with grey hairs popping up all over!
16. Color of eyes? Brown
17. Favorite thing to eat? Depends. Basically if it's a carb, I'll eat it. Chips, chocolate, bread, tacos. All the food.
18. Favorite holiday? Christmas!
19 Beer or wine? Neither
20. Night owl or morning? Neither? Night owl probably.
21. Favorite day of the week? Sunday
22. Do you have a nickname? Rach I guess?
Thursday, November 9, 2017
When My Heart is Overwhelmed...
It's no secret that I have anxiety. In fact I was planning to do a more detailed post about it, but tonight I want to keep it short and sweet.
This has obviously been a bit of a stressful week. I struggle when I don't feel like I know what I'm doing. Insurance. We pay premiums every month. It helps cover us in case of accidents. The thing is, I've never had to handle anything like this before. The only other accident that I've had a claim is when my car got totaled when I was 18. I lived at home and was on my parent's insurance, so the only thing I had to do was give my account of the accident.
I'm learning I have to trust that people are doing what needs to be done on both sides of this. It's easy for people to say, "Just let your insurance handle it!" It seems easy enough, right? Except, add in some anxious thoughts swirling around. "Why is no one calling?" "Should I be calling someone?" "What's the next step?" "What if..what if...what if..."
I KNOW that God has this. I know Satan is feeding me scary thoughts and questions. God's hand has been in this since Saturday. He protected Jacob and Daniel. He sent the right people to help. He sent the blessing of a vehicle. He's working. He knows the final outcome and is begging me to trust Him.
I've had a few favorite verses this year that I turn to when I get too worried and scared.
This is MY verse right now. The one that's been speaking to me and that I repeat over and over again when I'm stressed. It reminds me that I cannot do it alone. Overwhelmed is a word I use frequently, and when this verse first appeared to me I knew it was for me.
Another newer favorite is this:
And few more favorites to turn to:
I'm so thankful for my faith.
This has obviously been a bit of a stressful week. I struggle when I don't feel like I know what I'm doing. Insurance. We pay premiums every month. It helps cover us in case of accidents. The thing is, I've never had to handle anything like this before. The only other accident that I've had a claim is when my car got totaled when I was 18. I lived at home and was on my parent's insurance, so the only thing I had to do was give my account of the accident.
I'm learning I have to trust that people are doing what needs to be done on both sides of this. It's easy for people to say, "Just let your insurance handle it!" It seems easy enough, right? Except, add in some anxious thoughts swirling around. "Why is no one calling?" "Should I be calling someone?" "What's the next step?" "What if..what if...what if..."
I KNOW that God has this. I know Satan is feeding me scary thoughts and questions. God's hand has been in this since Saturday. He protected Jacob and Daniel. He sent the right people to help. He sent the blessing of a vehicle. He's working. He knows the final outcome and is begging me to trust Him.
I've had a few favorite verses this year that I turn to when I get too worried and scared.
This is MY verse right now. The one that's been speaking to me and that I repeat over and over again when I'm stressed. It reminds me that I cannot do it alone. Overwhelmed is a word I use frequently, and when this verse first appeared to me I knew it was for me.
Another newer favorite is this:
And few more favorites to turn to:
I'm so thankful for my faith.
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
It Is Well With My Soul
It's been another long day of trying to figure out stuff with insurance. I had a few moments of feeling sick to my stomach as I tried to figure some things out. In some ways I feel like we're making progress. In other ways it feels like everything is moving in slow motion. I did finally talk to a lady today who was really helpful.
In between all of that I was practicing songs for my first practice at church tonight. Singing praises to God is a good way to calm my panic. I've had God speak to me in many ways, but songs of worship have always been the biggest way that I hear God speak to me.
There have been many times a song comes on the radio just at the time that I need to hear it the most. I've had times where I have been brought it tears by how God shows up just when I need Him. God spoke to me through a song when he sent me on a mission trip to Ukraine. That was a really big one for me. I was 22, had never left the country and I really didn't plan to go to a 3rd world country. In fact, I laughed at the thought when Clay asked me 2 years before that to go with he and Ruth.
Then one Sunday Clay preached at church and gave a testimony about Ukraine. I felt God moving in me. I felt that nudge ,but I really didn't know for sure. I got in my car after church and turned on my Casting Crowns CD. I always skipped this song because I didn't know it, but for some reason (spoiler alert: GOD) I left it playing. Here's just the first part of the song, but the whole thing was just for me.
If you ask me to leap
Out of my boat on the crashing waves
If You ask me to go
Preach to the lost world that Jesus saves
I'll go, but I cannot go alone
Cause I know I'm nothing on my own
But the power of Christ in me makes me strong
Makes me strong
I've gotten goosebumps by how powerfully a song can speak to me. One of the first times we sang, "Holy Spirit" at church, I could feel His presence all over and as I stood there with goosebumps up and down my arms I was wondering if everyone else could feel it too? Another one that always gives me chills is, "It Is Well With My Soul". Get's me every time.
I love passing the songs onto my kids. I've sang to them since the day they were born. I enjoy teaching the "classic" Sunday School songs from my childhood. I sing a lot of the present day songs and I love when they hear them on the radio and start belting out the words!
I even love to just sit and sing old hymns. There's something about singing hymns every now and then that is just so comforting. It's like getting a big hug from God.
I'm excited that I finally made the decision to take my next step and join our worship team at church. I can't wail til Sunday!
In between all of that I was practicing songs for my first practice at church tonight. Singing praises to God is a good way to calm my panic. I've had God speak to me in many ways, but songs of worship have always been the biggest way that I hear God speak to me.
There have been many times a song comes on the radio just at the time that I need to hear it the most. I've had times where I have been brought it tears by how God shows up just when I need Him. God spoke to me through a song when he sent me on a mission trip to Ukraine. That was a really big one for me. I was 22, had never left the country and I really didn't plan to go to a 3rd world country. In fact, I laughed at the thought when Clay asked me 2 years before that to go with he and Ruth.
Then one Sunday Clay preached at church and gave a testimony about Ukraine. I felt God moving in me. I felt that nudge ,but I really didn't know for sure. I got in my car after church and turned on my Casting Crowns CD. I always skipped this song because I didn't know it, but for some reason (spoiler alert: GOD) I left it playing. Here's just the first part of the song, but the whole thing was just for me.
If you ask me to leap
Out of my boat on the crashing waves
If You ask me to go
Preach to the lost world that Jesus saves
I'll go, but I cannot go alone
Cause I know I'm nothing on my own
But the power of Christ in me makes me strong
Makes me strong
I've gotten goosebumps by how powerfully a song can speak to me. One of the first times we sang, "Holy Spirit" at church, I could feel His presence all over and as I stood there with goosebumps up and down my arms I was wondering if everyone else could feel it too? Another one that always gives me chills is, "It Is Well With My Soul". Get's me every time.
I love passing the songs onto my kids. I've sang to them since the day they were born. I enjoy teaching the "classic" Sunday School songs from my childhood. I sing a lot of the present day songs and I love when they hear them on the radio and start belting out the words!
I even love to just sit and sing old hymns. There's something about singing hymns every now and then that is just so comforting. It's like getting a big hug from God.
I'm excited that I finally made the decision to take my next step and join our worship team at church. I can't wail til Sunday!
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
A Busy Day of Adulting
Today was one of those days that felt non-stop from start til finish.
First of all, over the years I have become less and less of a morning person. Before kids, I was up early to go to work. I hated staying in bed when I woke up. I wanted to get moving and not waste the day. Now, I just want to lay in bed all day. It seems heavenly.
Alas, I have to wake up and although I set an alarm, I usually wake up before it goes off. Most of the time Daniel is my alarm clock. No matter how many times I tell him and explain to him that I don't want to talk right away and I need quiet, he talks my ear of and asks me random questions.
The school morning routine is never fun. There are usually fights, tantrums and slow pokes involved. Yet somehow we've made it to school on time every day.
James had his 3 year checkup at 9:15, which meant we had some time to kill before the appointment. I stalled as long as I could by just sitting in the parking lot at the school. Every 20 seconds or so he'd yell, "Mommy! Are you ready yet? Let's go! I SAY LET'S GOOOOO!!!!"
So we did a slow drive through the park. He wants to drive around every day, but since we're borrowing a vehicle from someone I don't want to be driving all over creation.
I will say though, driving through Manner's park this time of year is my favorite. The leaves are peaking finally and it was beautiful!
When we got to the doctor's office I had to fill out a few things and then we waited. I left his diaper bag in the van but did toss a diaper in my purse in case he was wet. We got in the room. He charmed the pants off the nurse and then after she left he wandered the room. Eventually he was still and quiet.
"James...what are you doing?"
"Nothing. Shh. Be quiet. Go away"
"Did you just poop?"
"Not yet..."
Well, yes he did! So, I had to go out to the nurses station and ask if they had wipes, which thankfully they did. Good grief kid!
He had a great appointment. I was given some tips and pointers to work on his eating and if those don't work we'll see a specialist in Springfield. Not that he's lacking. He was in the 80 something percentile for weight and 91st for height.
I had planned to go home and finish cleaning for a house showing scheduled for noon after the appointment, but then got a call that I needed to go clean out my van before they tow it somewhere else. I got that done. You don't realize how gross your kids are until you clean out a van. I mean...I left a graveyard of goldfish crackers in there. It was weird because inside the van you couldn't really tell there was an accident. The outside was another story. Although a lot of stuff up front was sticky from a drink or two that went flying.
I finally made it home by 11, and did a quick sweep of the house. Then I took James to McDonald's for lunch. His favorite thing to do was take stuff from the tray when we were done and throw them away piece by piece...
Got home. Had the daily, "I don't need a nap" fight. I won as always.
Talked to my mom. Watched 30 minutes of one of my shows. Picked up Daniel. Came home. Did the whole mom thing for the next 5 hours.
Now it's finally quiet. It's glorious.
T-minus 9.5 hours until the chaos starts all over. Hopefully, we'll hear something from insurance tomorrow. I don't like this waiting game. I suppose I just have to be patient. Something I am not naturally gifted with.
First of all, over the years I have become less and less of a morning person. Before kids, I was up early to go to work. I hated staying in bed when I woke up. I wanted to get moving and not waste the day. Now, I just want to lay in bed all day. It seems heavenly.
Alas, I have to wake up and although I set an alarm, I usually wake up before it goes off. Most of the time Daniel is my alarm clock. No matter how many times I tell him and explain to him that I don't want to talk right away and I need quiet, he talks my ear of and asks me random questions.
The school morning routine is never fun. There are usually fights, tantrums and slow pokes involved. Yet somehow we've made it to school on time every day.
James had his 3 year checkup at 9:15, which meant we had some time to kill before the appointment. I stalled as long as I could by just sitting in the parking lot at the school. Every 20 seconds or so he'd yell, "Mommy! Are you ready yet? Let's go! I SAY LET'S GOOOOO!!!!"
So we did a slow drive through the park. He wants to drive around every day, but since we're borrowing a vehicle from someone I don't want to be driving all over creation.
I will say though, driving through Manner's park this time of year is my favorite. The leaves are peaking finally and it was beautiful!
When we got to the doctor's office I had to fill out a few things and then we waited. I left his diaper bag in the van but did toss a diaper in my purse in case he was wet. We got in the room. He charmed the pants off the nurse and then after she left he wandered the room. Eventually he was still and quiet.
"James...what are you doing?"
"Nothing. Shh. Be quiet. Go away"
"Did you just poop?"
"Not yet..."
Well, yes he did! So, I had to go out to the nurses station and ask if they had wipes, which thankfully they did. Good grief kid!
He had a great appointment. I was given some tips and pointers to work on his eating and if those don't work we'll see a specialist in Springfield. Not that he's lacking. He was in the 80 something percentile for weight and 91st for height.
I had planned to go home and finish cleaning for a house showing scheduled for noon after the appointment, but then got a call that I needed to go clean out my van before they tow it somewhere else. I got that done. You don't realize how gross your kids are until you clean out a van. I mean...I left a graveyard of goldfish crackers in there. It was weird because inside the van you couldn't really tell there was an accident. The outside was another story. Although a lot of stuff up front was sticky from a drink or two that went flying.
I finally made it home by 11, and did a quick sweep of the house. Then I took James to McDonald's for lunch. His favorite thing to do was take stuff from the tray when we were done and throw them away piece by piece...
Got home. Had the daily, "I don't need a nap" fight. I won as always.
Talked to my mom. Watched 30 minutes of one of my shows. Picked up Daniel. Came home. Did the whole mom thing for the next 5 hours.
Now it's finally quiet. It's glorious.
T-minus 9.5 hours until the chaos starts all over. Hopefully, we'll hear something from insurance tomorrow. I don't like this waiting game. I suppose I just have to be patient. Something I am not naturally gifted with.
Monday, November 6, 2017
Behind the Scenes
You know how people tend to post picture perfect snapshots of their day? I know I do. But, I also post the real stuff too. Sometimes though, you have no idea what's been going on when a picture has been taken even when everyone is all smiles. I don't have it all together...like ever.
I looked through some pictures to find a few examples:
What you see: Cute kids making pizza.
What you don't see: Their mom who is behind the camera trying to get a picture for Facebook, while wondering why she ever thought this was a good idea? "Boys! The sauce goes on the dough. Stop! That's enough cheese! Oh jeez. There's sauce on the floor."
What you see: A happy child at the State Fair posing in front of the butter cow.
What you didn't see: The EPIC and I mean EPIC meltdown this child had beforehand. He refused to get his picture in front of it. Had a fit that the games in the area were closed and then went ballistic when we left the building. Screaming, pinching, hitting. And there were people witnessing this and probably wondering what kind of people we were. Apparently it was all over the fact that I wouldn't go back to take his picture after he refused. Anyway...once he calmed down and apologized, we took him back and this was the result. Kids. Are. Crazy.
Backwards
What you didn't see: A mom telling her child to put his dirty clothes in the laundry basket.
What you DO see: Said mom when she found her child's underwear hanging on the back of his door on a hook hours later. Why?
What you see: My sister and I during her marathon with my witty sign.
What you didn't see: Everything leading up to this moment. Kendra having a rocky start to her race. Mom falling into a pothole and needing stitches for the crater in her arm. Me passing out and hitting my head from being tired and freaked out by the crater arm. And then Kendra's meltdown when she saw us because she wanted to quit. (In this picture she was ready to kill me because of my pep talk)
What you see: A mom and her son hanging out at the park on a beautiful day.
What you didn't see: 2 fits about a stinking rock which lead to me practically dragging him back to the van and telling him we were leaving because of his attitude. Not my best moment and not his either.
What you see: Kid taking a break from walking at the park
What you didn't see: Me having to lug the kid for the next 5 minutes because he didn't want to walk anymore and decided he'd just stay in the road.
What you see: 2 goofy kids enjoying their day.
What you didn't see: Me trying to get one nice picture. (I love this though)...but goodness. They were all over. And see that sucker lying there on the step? Yeah...I'm pretty sure I still let him eat it because some things are not worth battling over.
What you see: Aww. Cute family and all smiles!
What you didn't see: Children running wild. Fighting. Rolling in the grass. Not listening to the photographer. Refusal to cooperate. Frustrated parents. And WIND. Oh the wind. Dang near blew us away. Oh yeah...and it decided to be like 84 degrees on that fine October day so I was sweating like crazy!
I find it almost comical at times to look back and see a picture and think...yeah, that doesn't tell the whole story! But I do love those moments that are frozen in time.
I looked through some pictures to find a few examples:
What you see: Cute kids making pizza.
What you don't see: Their mom who is behind the camera trying to get a picture for Facebook, while wondering why she ever thought this was a good idea? "Boys! The sauce goes on the dough. Stop! That's enough cheese! Oh jeez. There's sauce on the floor."
What you see: A happy child at the State Fair posing in front of the butter cow.
What you didn't see: The EPIC and I mean EPIC meltdown this child had beforehand. He refused to get his picture in front of it. Had a fit that the games in the area were closed and then went ballistic when we left the building. Screaming, pinching, hitting. And there were people witnessing this and probably wondering what kind of people we were. Apparently it was all over the fact that I wouldn't go back to take his picture after he refused. Anyway...once he calmed down and apologized, we took him back and this was the result. Kids. Are. Crazy.
Backwards
What you didn't see: A mom telling her child to put his dirty clothes in the laundry basket.
What you DO see: Said mom when she found her child's underwear hanging on the back of his door on a hook hours later. Why?
What you see: My sister and I during her marathon with my witty sign.
What you didn't see: Everything leading up to this moment. Kendra having a rocky start to her race. Mom falling into a pothole and needing stitches for the crater in her arm. Me passing out and hitting my head from being tired and freaked out by the crater arm. And then Kendra's meltdown when she saw us because she wanted to quit. (In this picture she was ready to kill me because of my pep talk)
What you see: A mom and her son hanging out at the park on a beautiful day.
What you didn't see: 2 fits about a stinking rock which lead to me practically dragging him back to the van and telling him we were leaving because of his attitude. Not my best moment and not his either.
What you see: Kid taking a break from walking at the park
What you didn't see: Me having to lug the kid for the next 5 minutes because he didn't want to walk anymore and decided he'd just stay in the road.
What you see: 2 goofy kids enjoying their day.
What you didn't see: Me trying to get one nice picture. (I love this though)...but goodness. They were all over. And see that sucker lying there on the step? Yeah...I'm pretty sure I still let him eat it because some things are not worth battling over.
What you see: Aww. Cute family and all smiles!
What you didn't see: Children running wild. Fighting. Rolling in the grass. Not listening to the photographer. Refusal to cooperate. Frustrated parents. And WIND. Oh the wind. Dang near blew us away. Oh yeah...and it decided to be like 84 degrees on that fine October day so I was sweating like crazy!
I find it almost comical at times to look back and see a picture and think...yeah, that doesn't tell the whole story! But I do love those moments that are frozen in time.
Sunday, November 5, 2017
Lazy Post
I'm too tired to focus on writing a "real" post, so you just get to read random things about me. This is the "grown up" survey that's been going around Facebook.
1. What bill do you hate paying the most?
My hospital bills. Probably going to be paying those of for a looonnnggg time.
2. Do you miss being a child?
Sometimes. Mostly just that fact that you don't have major responsibilities like paying bills and keeping tiny humans alive.
3. Chore you hate the most?
Loading groceries into the car and then bringing them in and putting them away. Hate it.
4. Where was the last place you had a romantic dinner?
Um...I have no idea.
5. If you could go back and change one thing what would it be?
I would have stuck out at least getting a 2 year degree.
6. Name of your first grade teacher?
Mrs. Gagliardi
7.What do you really want to be doing right now?
Eating a bowl of ice cream or sleeping
8. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A teacher or a nurse
9. How many colleges did you attend?
1, but not for very long before I quit.
10.Why did you choose the shirt that you have on right now?
Because it's my pajama shirt and it's soft and so comfy.
11. What are your thoughts on gas prices?
Wish they were lower. Glad they aren't higher.
12. First thought when the alarm went off this morning?
No alarm. Just kids. I figured out how long I could stay in bed before I had to get dressed and start working on James' car seat.
13. Last thought before going to sleep last night?
Thank God everyone stayed safe in the accident.
14. What famous person would you like to have dinner with?
Ellen.
15. Did you ever crash your car?
Yes. When I was 18. Plus a few minor dings here and there.
16. If you didn't have to work, would you volunteer?
I should. My dream volunteer job is being a baby snuggler in the NICU. It's a real thing!
17. Get up early or sleep late
Sleep late. I was never that way until I had kids who didn't let me sleep for 5 years!
18. What is your favorite cartoon character?
Linda Belcher
19. Favorite thing to do with your spouse?
Go to Cardinals games
20. Favorite lunch meat?
Chicken or turkey. Okay. If we're honest. Bologna. I love that stuff.
21. What do you get every time you go into Wal-Mart?
Pretty much half the store. Yogurt and cereal probably.
23. Do you think marriage is an outdated ritual?
No
24. Favorite movie you wouldn't want anyone to find out about?
I really don't know. I don't think I have any that are so embarrassing I wouldn't want anyone to know.
25. What's your favorite drink
Water
26. Who[m] from high school would you like to run in to?
I don't know. I'm friends with some one Facebook and there are a select few I wouldn't mind hanging out with sometime!
27. What radio station is your car radio tuned to right now?
WCIC
28. Sopranos or Desperate Housewives?
Housewives, but only the first few seasons.
29. Worst relationship mistake that you wish you could take back?
Can't think of anything right now.
30. Do you like the person that sits directly across from you at work?
Well, my kids are my work...and really it depends on how they're acting that day. LOL!
31. Have you ever had to use a fire extinguisher for its intended purposes?
Nope
32. Do you have a teddy bear?
I used to. I just use a little pillow now.
34. Strangest place you have ever brushed your teeth?
I don't think anywhere too strange. I guess a train in the middle of nowhere Ukraine?
35. Do you go to church?
Yes I do!
36. How old are you?
33
1. What bill do you hate paying the most?
My hospital bills. Probably going to be paying those of for a looonnnggg time.
2. Do you miss being a child?
Sometimes. Mostly just that fact that you don't have major responsibilities like paying bills and keeping tiny humans alive.
3. Chore you hate the most?
Loading groceries into the car and then bringing them in and putting them away. Hate it.
4. Where was the last place you had a romantic dinner?
Um...I have no idea.
5. If you could go back and change one thing what would it be?
I would have stuck out at least getting a 2 year degree.
6. Name of your first grade teacher?
Mrs. Gagliardi
7.What do you really want to be doing right now?
Eating a bowl of ice cream or sleeping
8. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A teacher or a nurse
9. How many colleges did you attend?
1, but not for very long before I quit.
10.Why did you choose the shirt that you have on right now?
Because it's my pajama shirt and it's soft and so comfy.
11. What are your thoughts on gas prices?
Wish they were lower. Glad they aren't higher.
12. First thought when the alarm went off this morning?
No alarm. Just kids. I figured out how long I could stay in bed before I had to get dressed and start working on James' car seat.
13. Last thought before going to sleep last night?
Thank God everyone stayed safe in the accident.
14. What famous person would you like to have dinner with?
Ellen.
15. Did you ever crash your car?
Yes. When I was 18. Plus a few minor dings here and there.
16. If you didn't have to work, would you volunteer?
I should. My dream volunteer job is being a baby snuggler in the NICU. It's a real thing!
17. Get up early or sleep late
Sleep late. I was never that way until I had kids who didn't let me sleep for 5 years!
18. What is your favorite cartoon character?
Linda Belcher
19. Favorite thing to do with your spouse?
Go to Cardinals games
20. Favorite lunch meat?
Chicken or turkey. Okay. If we're honest. Bologna. I love that stuff.
21. What do you get every time you go into Wal-Mart?
Pretty much half the store. Yogurt and cereal probably.
23. Do you think marriage is an outdated ritual?
No
24. Favorite movie you wouldn't want anyone to find out about?
I really don't know. I don't think I have any that are so embarrassing I wouldn't want anyone to know.
25. What's your favorite drink
Water
26. Who[m] from high school would you like to run in to?
I don't know. I'm friends with some one Facebook and there are a select few I wouldn't mind hanging out with sometime!
27. What radio station is your car radio tuned to right now?
WCIC
28. Sopranos or Desperate Housewives?
Housewives, but only the first few seasons.
29. Worst relationship mistake that you wish you could take back?
Can't think of anything right now.
30. Do you like the person that sits directly across from you at work?
Well, my kids are my work...and really it depends on how they're acting that day. LOL!
31. Have you ever had to use a fire extinguisher for its intended purposes?
Nope
32. Do you have a teddy bear?
I used to. I just use a little pillow now.
34. Strangest place you have ever brushed your teeth?
I don't think anywhere too strange. I guess a train in the middle of nowhere Ukraine?
35. Do you go to church?
Yes I do!
36. How old are you?
33
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