There are times life has a way of just jumping up and biting us in the a$$. We all know it and have experienced it.
In March we actually got approved for a home loan, huge step considering where we were 3 years ago. As of today we have jumped through so many hoops we might actually get to put in an offer on a home. We have paid off $1500 worth of misc outstanding debt, found another had been released, and are disputing one final one.
We have finally gained stability. The budget is actually working...we have come so far in a very short amount of time.
As of Wednesay I will offically be the mother of 2 teenagers. Hard to believe DD will be 13. Unfortunately I will be having a minor surgery procedure so Dad is on Birthday Duty.
Speaking of Dad, my Dear Husband finally got to buy a boat. Nothing fancy but perfect for the lake, fishing or tubing. There have been a few hiccups with the boat so far but nothing that can't get fixed. DH is also redoing the interior of the boat. Honestly I thought we bought a boat to go boating with not for DH to just tinker with. Silly me!
I will be adding some new pages to my blog to touch on some other exciting things going on.
Showing posts with label Kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kids. Show all posts
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Friday, April 4, 2014
This Crazy Thing We Call Life
Life has been so crazy lately and I really need to improve my skills.
We have all survived the Winter, if you want to call what we in the Pacific NorthWest called Winter. We watched The Olympic Games from Sochi.
DH and I every night went up to our room to veg out watching the games. We were slightly disappointed in the fact that we never saw any of the medal ceremonies.
Then we rolled right into Girl Scout Cookie Sales. Really don't like these 2 weeks every year, fortunately it is only 2 weeks and not longer. On the plus side DD sold more than 400 boxes of cookies. Very proud of her for reaching the goal she set.
I completed 21 CU's for School this term and the next term starts 5/1/2014. I was going to try to squeeze in one more class but time is my enemy right now.
On March 12th I had a second interview with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation to become the Washington State Caregiver Fellow. At the end of the interview I was invited to become a Fellow and I needed to confirm I would be able to travel to Washington DC in April, hence time is the enemy for school.
My youngest nephew turned 5 on March 17th. Hard to believe he is growing up so fast.
The VA finally determined that my Dear Husband could not live successfully with out the Aid and Attendance of another, this might be our last battle with the VA. I hope!
On the 24th of March the Oldest Child (my step son technically) arrived at home. More chaos with happy children and happy dogs.
So many blessings with all 3 of the kids together now. The Oldest can go to the store, can drive dad around, and loves spending time with the kids. So glad he is here.
A bunch of other things are going on and I will be adding pages to my blog them as well.
Next week, April 7th - 11th I will be traveling to and in Washington DC. I have been officially invited to the White House by Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden. Scared and excited all at the same time.
We have all survived the Winter, if you want to call what we in the Pacific NorthWest called Winter. We watched The Olympic Games from Sochi.
DH and I every night went up to our room to veg out watching the games. We were slightly disappointed in the fact that we never saw any of the medal ceremonies.
Then we rolled right into Girl Scout Cookie Sales. Really don't like these 2 weeks every year, fortunately it is only 2 weeks and not longer. On the plus side DD sold more than 400 boxes of cookies. Very proud of her for reaching the goal she set.
I completed 21 CU's for School this term and the next term starts 5/1/2014. I was going to try to squeeze in one more class but time is my enemy right now.
On March 12th I had a second interview with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation to become the Washington State Caregiver Fellow. At the end of the interview I was invited to become a Fellow and I needed to confirm I would be able to travel to Washington DC in April, hence time is the enemy for school.
My youngest nephew turned 5 on March 17th. Hard to believe he is growing up so fast.
The VA finally determined that my Dear Husband could not live successfully with out the Aid and Attendance of another, this might be our last battle with the VA. I hope!
On the 24th of March the Oldest Child (my step son technically) arrived at home. More chaos with happy children and happy dogs.
So many blessings with all 3 of the kids together now. The Oldest can go to the store, can drive dad around, and loves spending time with the kids. So glad he is here.
A bunch of other things are going on and I will be adding pages to my blog them as well.
Next week, April 7th - 11th I will be traveling to and in Washington DC. I have been officially invited to the White House by Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden. Scared and excited all at the same time.
Sunday, January 5, 2014
New Year...Fresh Start
Welcome to 2014
A New Year and a Fresh Start and boy do I need one. I didn't feel like I had anything worth blogging about, but I was wrong.
I looked back through 2013 and realized there was A LOT going on that I could have shared and not all good or bad.
I have a high schooler and a middle schooler this year. Making life interesting to say the least.
Our Dear Friends moved to Salt Lake City making visits more challenging.
We launched David's House on FB on November 11th. Working on fund raising right now.
Survived the first whole year without Debbie.
DH's oldest son came out to visit for 2 very short weeks in September. He wants to move out here to be with us. Kids are loving the idea and DH is waiting not so patiently.
We had a nice Holiday Season and are eager to move on to goals and adventures of the new year.
On December 30th, after 10 years of battling with the Army et al regarding DH's knee injury we actually got confirmation that there is a problem, and it is NOT arthritis. I feel like we won a major battle.
A New Year and a Fresh Start and boy do I need one. I didn't feel like I had anything worth blogging about, but I was wrong.
I looked back through 2013 and realized there was A LOT going on that I could have shared and not all good or bad.
I have a high schooler and a middle schooler this year. Making life interesting to say the least.
Our Dear Friends moved to Salt Lake City making visits more challenging.
We launched David's House on FB on November 11th. Working on fund raising right now.
Survived the first whole year without Debbie.
DH's oldest son came out to visit for 2 very short weeks in September. He wants to move out here to be with us. Kids are loving the idea and DH is waiting not so patiently.
We had a nice Holiday Season and are eager to move on to goals and adventures of the new year.
On December 30th, after 10 years of battling with the Army et al regarding DH's knee injury we actually got confirmation that there is a problem, and it is NOT arthritis. I feel like we won a major battle.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
New Car
Yep, we broke down and traded in the Van for a newer vehicle. We got an Expedition with a service contract. We were so upside down in the van and with the issues it was starting to have we needed something far more reliable that would last a few years.
The kids and dogs are both pretty happy with the new car.
The kids and dogs are both pretty happy with the new car.
Friday, March 15, 2013
Free Your Mind Friday
Welcome to Free Your Mind Friday
If the average human life span was 40 years, how would you live your life differently?
Well considering the fact that I am 44, I probably would have had children much earlier in life. There are any number of things I would 'do over' if there was a chance...like that first marriage = mistake. DH and I were not ready for life together when we were younger and we both knew that but I would have wanted my same kids earlier in life.
There are times I would have had more fun and not let 'stuff' stop me from the things I really wanted to do. I have no complaints about my life how it is now.
If the average human life span was 40 years, how would you live your life differently?
Well considering the fact that I am 44, I probably would have had children much earlier in life. There are any number of things I would 'do over' if there was a chance...like that first marriage = mistake. DH and I were not ready for life together when we were younger and we both knew that but I would have wanted my same kids earlier in life.
There are times I would have had more fun and not let 'stuff' stop me from the things I really wanted to do. I have no complaints about my life how it is now.
Friday, March 1, 2013
Free Your Mind Friday
Week 6
If happiness was the national currency, what kind of work would make you rich?
So funny to read this question today and all I could think of was the Clay Walker song, If I Could Make a Living. I guess may answer would be just that doing what I already do everyday. How great would it be to get rich doing the one thing which comes so natural to most people.
My Husband and Kids make me happy everyday, even on those days when they drive me nuts, yesterday. Yesterday I would have been bankrupt if happiness was the currency. What a crazy day to attempt to get anything done. The kids were behind in some of the school work so I was in push mode with them.
If happiness was the national currency, what kind of work would make you rich?
So funny to read this question today and all I could think of was the Clay Walker song, If I Could Make a Living. I guess may answer would be just that doing what I already do everyday. How great would it be to get rich doing the one thing which comes so natural to most people.
My Husband and Kids make me happy everyday, even on those days when they drive me nuts, yesterday. Yesterday I would have been bankrupt if happiness was the currency. What a crazy day to attempt to get anything done. The kids were behind in some of the school work so I was in push mode with them.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Cheese
I have to say that grocery shopping is a pain. I feel like I have been shopping almost everyday for over a month. It really isn't true but it sure feels like it.
Today, mom and I went shopping. We were at the grocery store and the coupon was still available for the Tillamook Cheese 2 lb block for only $4.99, almost a $4 savings. Mind you I bought 2 earlier this week and then my mom bought 2...that would be 8 POUNDS of cheese.
I think I live with rats. The kids have already opened one brick, which is now 3/4 of the way gone. Of course it is, the rats know there is plenty more where that came from.
There is now 10+ pounds of cheese in my refrigerator...just tempting the rats to come after it.
Today, mom and I went shopping. We were at the grocery store and the coupon was still available for the Tillamook Cheese 2 lb block for only $4.99, almost a $4 savings. Mind you I bought 2 earlier this week and then my mom bought 2...that would be 8 POUNDS of cheese.
I think I live with rats. The kids have already opened one brick, which is now 3/4 of the way gone. Of course it is, the rats know there is plenty more where that came from.
There is now 10+ pounds of cheese in my refrigerator...just tempting the rats to come after it.
Friday, January 4, 2013
T.G.I.F. or Thank Goodness It's Friday
What a crazy week we have had with the kids being sick and now G'ma is sick. DD is on the mend though since she has started to drive me nuts with some of her antics. DS has been better for a couple of days but still a little stuffed up. Dad and I have started to feel like crud.
I would say I am happy tomorrow is Saturday, but I don't like Saturday's anymore. It was a Saturday that my Sister was killed. I will take 2 Friday's or 2 Sunday's but not any Saturday's. Might seem silly but Saturday's give me anxiety.
Kids started back to school on Wednesday. Sick kids and school does not result in a lot getting accomplished but thankfully they don't HAVE to take a whole day off.
DH is having some struggles with some of his medications again. This time instead of sleeping 20 hours a day he is not sleeping as many hours at night. Almost like reversing his schedule. He is getting a new MH Provider at the VA, our 3rd in 18 months, which always causes some concern since they want to make too many med adjustments at the same time.
The VA brings up another subject...military service. Keeping all service records together the best I can now and that always needed DD214. Crazy how important that one piece of paper is in the Military and Veteran Community. I just wish sometimes that it reflected ALL deployment activities that the service member went through and not just what the Unit was assigned to do. My DH spent the majority of his deployment with an entire different Unit from a different State but there was no final or official transfer so there is no paper trail for the additional duties or assignments he endured while deployed.
The best thing I can say about our journey is that we are continuing to take it together, we haven't given up on each other, trust me there are times when it has come close but we just keep trying, TOGETHER!!
Joydare Challenge for today: An old gift, a new gift, a blue gift
This took me a bit to think about but here it is:
I would say I am happy tomorrow is Saturday, but I don't like Saturday's anymore. It was a Saturday that my Sister was killed. I will take 2 Friday's or 2 Sunday's but not any Saturday's. Might seem silly but Saturday's give me anxiety.
Kids started back to school on Wednesday. Sick kids and school does not result in a lot getting accomplished but thankfully they don't HAVE to take a whole day off.
DH is having some struggles with some of his medications again. This time instead of sleeping 20 hours a day he is not sleeping as many hours at night. Almost like reversing his schedule. He is getting a new MH Provider at the VA, our 3rd in 18 months, which always causes some concern since they want to make too many med adjustments at the same time.
The VA brings up another subject...military service. Keeping all service records together the best I can now and that always needed DD214. Crazy how important that one piece of paper is in the Military and Veteran Community. I just wish sometimes that it reflected ALL deployment activities that the service member went through and not just what the Unit was assigned to do. My DH spent the majority of his deployment with an entire different Unit from a different State but there was no final or official transfer so there is no paper trail for the additional duties or assignments he endured while deployed.
The best thing I can say about our journey is that we are continuing to take it together, we haven't given up on each other, trust me there are times when it has come close but we just keep trying, TOGETHER!!
Joydare Challenge for today: An old gift, a new gift, a blue gift
This took me a bit to think about but here it is:
- Old Gift - my huge yarn stash...like Christmas when I dig through it
- New Gift - the bright sock yarn I got for Christmas
- Blue Gift - the new denim bag I got for Christmas
Thursday, January 3, 2013
3 / 365
Today I had a visit from the VA Mental Health Nurse.
Our visit was good and we talked about some of the changes that have taken place and some changes within the scope of the VA Visiting Nurse part of the program.
Had to take Mom to the doctor, she has been sick thanks to the kids. Fortunately it is a cold with cough and nothing more serious. Speaking of illness, if messiness is any indication of feeling better than my DD is really on the mend. She is still stuffed and coughing up she has been a busy child today.
I have accepted the Joydare Challenge to document 1000 Gifts or Blessings from God. I am rather enjoying keeping track of some of the little things I would normally overlook. So here is a brief look at the gifts so far this year.
Our visit was good and we talked about some of the changes that have taken place and some changes within the scope of the VA Visiting Nurse part of the program.
Had to take Mom to the doctor, she has been sick thanks to the kids. Fortunately it is a cold with cough and nothing more serious. Speaking of illness, if messiness is any indication of feeling better than my DD is really on the mend. She is still stuffed and coughing up she has been a busy child today.
I have accepted the Joydare Challenge to document 1000 Gifts or Blessings from God. I am rather enjoying keeping track of some of the little things I would normally overlook. So here is a brief look at the gifts so far this year.
- 1/1/2013 3 Gifts Heard - hubby making dinner, the kids laughing, mom laughing again
- 1/2/2013 Reading - The Fiery Cross, D. Gabaldon Making - Socks Seeing - Kids getting better
- 1/3/2013 Overheard - kids laughing with dad, dad having fun, a lady at Costco reading a devotion in the book aisle
Friday, January 6, 2012
First Friday of the New Year
So here we are at the first Friday of the new year. As of right now the kids are working on school work and we are close to wrapping it up for the week. It has been a little challenging to get and keep kids on task after a two week vacation. We have gone back to setting an alarm to get up in the morning.
As for the organizing that I have begun we are actually on task and for the first time in a long while the laundry is folded after coming out of the dryer. Sometimes I amaze my myself! The new chore list is working as well with daily tasks and a different room everyday. We are going through and working on getting the whole house organized one step at a time.
I have also started to put together a Home Management Binder. The research alone on this has been mind boggling. There is so much to be found on this subject. I used different things from different sources and then made a few of my own. This is really a work in progress but is coming along just fine. Yesterday I made a cute cover for the binder. I have found a font I REALLY like and that is what I have decided to use throughout my binder. As this project progresses I will post some links and thank yous on here. In the mean time Pinterest has some wonderful resources as well.
Enjoy!
As for the organizing that I have begun we are actually on task and for the first time in a long while the laundry is folded after coming out of the dryer. Sometimes I amaze my myself! The new chore list is working as well with daily tasks and a different room everyday. We are going through and working on getting the whole house organized one step at a time.
I have also started to put together a Home Management Binder. The research alone on this has been mind boggling. There is so much to be found on this subject. I used different things from different sources and then made a few of my own. This is really a work in progress but is coming along just fine. Yesterday I made a cute cover for the binder. I have found a font I REALLY like and that is what I have decided to use throughout my binder. As this project progresses I will post some links and thank yous on here. In the mean time Pinterest has some wonderful resources as well.
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| Binder Cover |
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| Family Chores |
Monday, January 2, 2012
Happy 2012
Hard to believe it is 2012! I really enjoy a new year with new beginnings and the fact spring comes next, like a rebirth. So glad the holidays are behind us. There is always so much stress and tension it makes it challenging to try to be together.
We enjoyed a great New Year's Eve with friends here at our house. The 5 kids played Nerf Guns EVERYWHERE...I think there are still bullets under our bed. They had so much fun. The kids were starting to get tired (and so were the Moms) we tuned into the New York Ball Drop Party and the kids saw that. They were so excited to watch the ball drop but bummed they missed Lady Gaga's performance, pretty funny coming from a bunch of 10 year old girls.
Looking forward to tomorrow and getting back to our schedule with school. I am lucky and have one more week off before my last two classes of my associates degree. Pretty excited!! Right now I am working on putting together a Home Management Binder to get better control of our life. I will also be putting together all important papers, documents, etc just in case of an emergency. I actually feel like a grown up.
We enjoyed a great New Year's Eve with friends here at our house. The 5 kids played Nerf Guns EVERYWHERE...I think there are still bullets under our bed. They had so much fun. The kids were starting to get tired (and so were the Moms) we tuned into the New York Ball Drop Party and the kids saw that. They were so excited to watch the ball drop but bummed they missed Lady Gaga's performance, pretty funny coming from a bunch of 10 year old girls.
Looking forward to tomorrow and getting back to our schedule with school. I am lucky and have one more week off before my last two classes of my associates degree. Pretty excited!! Right now I am working on putting together a Home Management Binder to get better control of our life. I will also be putting together all important papers, documents, etc just in case of an emergency. I actually feel like a grown up.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving
Wanting to take a little time for an update.
Been really busy here with my classes and the kids. It also never seems to fail as we get closer to the Holidays we get busy and forget about the little things in life...like a blog post.
We are looking forward to a great day with friends. We are cooking a turkey with all the trimmings and so thankful to have new friends to share this day with. In a few hours the calm of our morning will give into the chaos of 3 - 10 year old little girls, a 6 year old girl, a 13 year old boy, and 4 adults...can't forget about the 2 dogs either. I wouldn't change a thing.
Sunday is the First Sunday of Advent and we are going to try something new. Not only will I be working with the kids on Advent and the meaning of Advent. We will be talking about the meaning of Christmas each week. We will also be incorporating different cultures around the world and how they celebrate this Holiday Season. We will learn about the Tlingit Indians, since the kids are part Tlingit. We will learn about Sweden and then Germany. Finally, we will be learning about Hanukkah. Really looking forward to exploring these cultures with the kids.
Today though they will be working on 'What they are Thankful for', some turkey activities, and letters to Santa.
Happy Thanksgiving and may your day be full of Fun, Family, Friends, Food, and Football!!
Been really busy here with my classes and the kids. It also never seems to fail as we get closer to the Holidays we get busy and forget about the little things in life...like a blog post.
We are looking forward to a great day with friends. We are cooking a turkey with all the trimmings and so thankful to have new friends to share this day with. In a few hours the calm of our morning will give into the chaos of 3 - 10 year old little girls, a 6 year old girl, a 13 year old boy, and 4 adults...can't forget about the 2 dogs either. I wouldn't change a thing.
Sunday is the First Sunday of Advent and we are going to try something new. Not only will I be working with the kids on Advent and the meaning of Advent. We will be talking about the meaning of Christmas each week. We will also be incorporating different cultures around the world and how they celebrate this Holiday Season. We will learn about the Tlingit Indians, since the kids are part Tlingit. We will learn about Sweden and then Germany. Finally, we will be learning about Hanukkah. Really looking forward to exploring these cultures with the kids.
Today though they will be working on 'What they are Thankful for', some turkey activities, and letters to Santa.
Happy Thanksgiving and may your day be full of Fun, Family, Friends, Food, and Football!!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Happy November
Happy November, yep 3 days late.
I have been so busy with the kids homeschooling and then my own classes there has been hardly a moment of free time. So glad I only have the two kids.
We have successfully completed 2 months of homeschooling and I still have all my hair, might be a few new gray ones in there but still I haven't pulled it out yet. We had such a great month. We really worked on staying on task and completing subject in a timely manner. Yeah!!
I have celebrated a another birthday and we are now looking forward to the coming Holidays.
I have more homework but that is all for now.
I have been so busy with the kids homeschooling and then my own classes there has been hardly a moment of free time. So glad I only have the two kids.
We have successfully completed 2 months of homeschooling and I still have all my hair, might be a few new gray ones in there but still I haven't pulled it out yet. We had such a great month. We really worked on staying on task and completing subject in a timely manner. Yeah!!
I have celebrated a another birthday and we are now looking forward to the coming Holidays.
I have more homework but that is all for now.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Traditions
Traditions usually mean a lot to those that begin the tradition as well as to those who have followed in the footsteps of those traditions. I think I have come to a time in my life when I want to start a few traditions based on me and my family. It is not to exclude anyone from what we are doing but to make our time together better.
There are so many days, even with the kids being home schooled, we are in our own area and focused on our own projects we tend to miss real time together. We are going to start with Thanksgiving. There is so much more to Thanksgiving then eating as much as you can in one meal and watching some football, don't get me wrong the food is good and the game usually is too, but we are missing something. Being Thankful for what we have is the true key to Thanksgiving.
I have been watching the Joplin Extreme Makeover progress on Facebook and crying for these people I have never met, what a wonderful experience for them. I am amazed at how fast these homes are being put together by these volunteers.
I am so Thankful my life has never been touched by natural disaster.
So here is to traditions both old and new...hopefully they will find a happy blending of the two.
There are so many days, even with the kids being home schooled, we are in our own area and focused on our own projects we tend to miss real time together. We are going to start with Thanksgiving. There is so much more to Thanksgiving then eating as much as you can in one meal and watching some football, don't get me wrong the food is good and the game usually is too, but we are missing something. Being Thankful for what we have is the true key to Thanksgiving.
I have been watching the Joplin Extreme Makeover progress on Facebook and crying for these people I have never met, what a wonderful experience for them. I am amazed at how fast these homes are being put together by these volunteers.
I am so Thankful my life has never been touched by natural disaster.
So here is to traditions both old and new...hopefully they will find a happy blending of the two.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Goosebumps...the Good Kind
You ever hear those stories that give you goosebumps, not the scary ones but the honest to God pleasing goosebumps?!?! I love those stories and I have had a couple today.
First Attack
My first attack of the goosebumps came when I heard through Facebook that a dear friend of our very dear friends were chosen for Extreme Makeover:Home Edition Joplin, to aid in the recovery from the May 22nd tornado. Knowing our friends the way I do, I just knew in my heart of heart this other family was incredible. I had seen some footage of their house after the tornado and was devastated for them and everyone in Joplin. Seeing devastation from a more personal perspective was better than any news footage you could ever see.
Having watched many episodes of Extreme Makeover:Home Edition I knew this family, along with the other 6 families in Joplin, were going to be Blessed beyond any one's expectations. Here is a great article on the event.
Second Attack
The second attack of goosebumps came during a meeting this afternoon with the housing manager. We were talking about their monthly dinners and when it would be and then the following dinner would be on Thanksgiving at the same time. I think that my dear hubby and I had the same thought at the same time because we asked what time we needed to be there on Thanksgiving. There was no thought to anything else but helping people less fortunate than ourselves. When we talked to the kids they both wanted to know what we would be bringing then for Thanksgiving. That was it...no discussion of anything else, they want to help others too.
I have always cooked a Thanksgiving dinner for us either on Thanksgiving or sometime that weekend so we will have our turkey but we will be giving so much back to others. Knowing my kids are looking forward to this makes me realize we have actually done something right, we have raised great caring and giving kids.
First Attack
My first attack of the goosebumps came when I heard through Facebook that a dear friend of our very dear friends were chosen for Extreme Makeover:Home Edition Joplin, to aid in the recovery from the May 22nd tornado. Knowing our friends the way I do, I just knew in my heart of heart this other family was incredible. I had seen some footage of their house after the tornado and was devastated for them and everyone in Joplin. Seeing devastation from a more personal perspective was better than any news footage you could ever see.
Having watched many episodes of Extreme Makeover:Home Edition I knew this family, along with the other 6 families in Joplin, were going to be Blessed beyond any one's expectations. Here is a great article on the event.
Second Attack
The second attack of goosebumps came during a meeting this afternoon with the housing manager. We were talking about their monthly dinners and when it would be and then the following dinner would be on Thanksgiving at the same time. I think that my dear hubby and I had the same thought at the same time because we asked what time we needed to be there on Thanksgiving. There was no thought to anything else but helping people less fortunate than ourselves. When we talked to the kids they both wanted to know what we would be bringing then for Thanksgiving. That was it...no discussion of anything else, they want to help others too.
I have always cooked a Thanksgiving dinner for us either on Thanksgiving or sometime that weekend so we will have our turkey but we will be giving so much back to others. Knowing my kids are looking forward to this makes me realize we have actually done something right, we have raised great caring and giving kids.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Busy Days
I just realized that I have not posted anything in almost a week. Dear hubby was gone for the week and he will finally be home tomorrow. He was helping with a large catering event...been interesting without him around. Of course my darling daughter knows how to push every button to make me cave, which started with not being able to sleep alone if daddy wasn't home to she didn't want me to be lonely. Like I could really be lonely with both dogs on the bed.
We had a successful week of school last week and managed to stay on task...yeah! My class work is coming right along and so glad they are only 5 1/2 week sessions.
The dogs will be very happy to have dad home too.
We had Girl Scouts tonight and my daughter had a wonderful time with her 'girls'.
We had a successful week of school last week and managed to stay on task...yeah! My class work is coming right along and so glad they are only 5 1/2 week sessions.
The dogs will be very happy to have dad home too.
We had Girl Scouts tonight and my daughter had a wonderful time with her 'girls'.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
The Art of Grocery Shopping
Well today we went and did the majority of our grocery shopping. I have to say I really do not like to go grocery shopping in general, running to the store to grab a couple of things is not grocery shopping, coming home, unloading the car (with help), everyone pitching in to put things away, now that is grocery shopping. I am pretty careful about my shopping and I make a list during the last week of the month and as things become empty. I try to never run out of things but it has been known to happen to the best of shoppers.
First, we went to the meat market, Western Meats, and bought a 50# variety pack. When I figured everything out it broke down to only $2.599 per pound and I know I usually end up paying $2.99 per pound just for ground beef and it only goes up from there. We then went to Fred Meyer to check on a prescription for my daughter, they were out so I will get it tomorrow. Fortunately there is a Starbucks in Fred Meyer, so I got a coffee, Pumpkin Spice Latte, and hubby got a shaken black tea not to mention the doughnuts we brought home for the kids.
The kids decided they wanted to go to Costco with us so we got ready and off we were. I really think we were in Costco for over an hour and we pretty much only stuck to the grocery section. We didn't need meat but we did need everything to go with meat, so with list in hand we began our trip. The kids walked ahead to grab what I asked them to grab so hubby and I could talk. By the time we left Costco we were all getting a little tired but I needed one more stop.
Final stop was WinCo. This is not our favorite place to shop but the prices are pretty good and there are so many things we need that Costco doesn't carry or I don't need Army sized. We do like to go there when we need a good laugh and today didn't forget to give us that which we needed. The kids have started calling WinCo, WeirDo, yep this would put "People of WalMart" to shame. Today we were walking down the frozen food aisle we were the observers of another shopper, younger and male, yelling at the frozen food case, particularly the frozen chicken case. We were not sure why and I don't think his female companion knew why either because she really tried to get him to stop but he just got louder. (Who thought the city life wouldn't be fun?!?! ROFL) Ok then...we are finished. Off to the check out and there were two extreme couponers in front of us and the cashier needed an over ride because it was over $10 in coupons. By the time it was my turn the cashier looked at me expectantly and I told her I have no coupons I never remember to carry them or use them.
We pull up into the drive way and there are the darling dogs sitting on the hall/sofa table in front of the window watching for their people to come home. It really is a good thing the dogs are smaller or else they would knock us over with their wagging tails. See I guess grocery shopping can be fun.
First, we went to the meat market, Western Meats, and bought a 50# variety pack. When I figured everything out it broke down to only $2.599 per pound and I know I usually end up paying $2.99 per pound just for ground beef and it only goes up from there. We then went to Fred Meyer to check on a prescription for my daughter, they were out so I will get it tomorrow. Fortunately there is a Starbucks in Fred Meyer, so I got a coffee, Pumpkin Spice Latte, and hubby got a shaken black tea not to mention the doughnuts we brought home for the kids.
The kids decided they wanted to go to Costco with us so we got ready and off we were. I really think we were in Costco for over an hour and we pretty much only stuck to the grocery section. We didn't need meat but we did need everything to go with meat, so with list in hand we began our trip. The kids walked ahead to grab what I asked them to grab so hubby and I could talk. By the time we left Costco we were all getting a little tired but I needed one more stop.
Final stop was WinCo. This is not our favorite place to shop but the prices are pretty good and there are so many things we need that Costco doesn't carry or I don't need Army sized. We do like to go there when we need a good laugh and today didn't forget to give us that which we needed. The kids have started calling WinCo, WeirDo, yep this would put "People of WalMart" to shame. Today we were walking down the frozen food aisle we were the observers of another shopper, younger and male, yelling at the frozen food case, particularly the frozen chicken case. We were not sure why and I don't think his female companion knew why either because she really tried to get him to stop but he just got louder. (Who thought the city life wouldn't be fun?!?! ROFL) Ok then...we are finished. Off to the check out and there were two extreme couponers in front of us and the cashier needed an over ride because it was over $10 in coupons. By the time it was my turn the cashier looked at me expectantly and I told her I have no coupons I never remember to carry them or use them.
We pull up into the drive way and there are the darling dogs sitting on the hall/sofa table in front of the window watching for their people to come home. It really is a good thing the dogs are smaller or else they would knock us over with their wagging tails. See I guess grocery shopping can be fun.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Another Week in Paradise
Yep, here we are starting another wonderful week in my own personal paradise. No, I have not moved to a tropical island with some young stud. My classes began yesterday so in addition to my kids' education I have my own. I am taking a general science class and microeconomics. How much fun can we have now!
Yesterday was a busy day with printing out all my necessary course work for the next 5 1/2 weeks and then on to the kids' history course materials, hoping this is the last week for printing them. We really had a laid back day yesterday, I even just laid on the couch and watched at a movie. Pretty strange!
Today my darling children decided they were having a holiday, but I have discovered every Monday seems to be this same holiday...Procrastination Day!!! Yep, there were the Monday morning blahs present in the house this morning. It was rather funny on many levels. After breakfasts' and showers they got started around 9:30 am and both of them were finished by 1:30 pm. Maybe we have Procrastination Mornings not whole days!
Took my darling daughter to the doctor this afternoon for a small round rash on her chest she has had for about a week. It actually began as a bug bite then developed into a rash. I had a feeling I knew what it was but I wasn't positive, sure enough it was ring worm caused by the bug bite. Her scratching at it doesn't help either. Fortunately it was only in that one spot so the cream will fix it right up. She and her friends have been playing outside as much as possible before the weather changes, so I am not surprised at all.
Tomorrow, armed with my grocery list, we will head out to go shopping. This could get interesting.
Yesterday was a busy day with printing out all my necessary course work for the next 5 1/2 weeks and then on to the kids' history course materials, hoping this is the last week for printing them. We really had a laid back day yesterday, I even just laid on the couch and watched at a movie. Pretty strange!
Today my darling children decided they were having a holiday, but I have discovered every Monday seems to be this same holiday...Procrastination Day!!! Yep, there were the Monday morning blahs present in the house this morning. It was rather funny on many levels. After breakfasts' and showers they got started around 9:30 am and both of them were finished by 1:30 pm. Maybe we have Procrastination Mornings not whole days!
Took my darling daughter to the doctor this afternoon for a small round rash on her chest she has had for about a week. It actually began as a bug bite then developed into a rash. I had a feeling I knew what it was but I wasn't positive, sure enough it was ring worm caused by the bug bite. Her scratching at it doesn't help either. Fortunately it was only in that one spot so the cream will fix it right up. She and her friends have been playing outside as much as possible before the weather changes, so I am not surprised at all.
Tomorrow, armed with my grocery list, we will head out to go shopping. This could get interesting.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Parenting Rules
When my oldest child was born I was just a few months shy of turning 30 and I was scared of this little tiny bundle. I was amazed at how scared of him I was since I was the oldest of 4 and I already had nephews and nieces, not to mention the fact that many of my friends had children. I am usually really good with kids but that tiny little bundle scared the CRAP out of me. There was a moment about an hour after he was born when everyone left the room and I was not allowed up just yet, here was this bundle just out of arms reach. What would I do if he started to cry?!?! We were only truly alone for 5-10 minutes but those were a few of the longest minutes of my life.
Two days later when we left the hospital we were given a book on newborn care, not to mention we already had "What to Expect the First Year". It is kind of ironic considering how many times we tell our kids or even heard ourselves, kids don't come with an instruction book. Well honestly we had an instruction book. Needless to say we really didn't need it my sisters had kids and they all survived, how hard can it truly be?!?!?!
Now as I sit here with a 13 year old boy and a 10 year old girl (going on 15, at least) I really wish I had an instruction book. There are times I still wonder what to do if they cry, because at this point the crying is just as bad as when they were babies but then they had a excuse, they didn't talk. There are times when I chalk it up to growing up. There are times now they are no better at expressing themselves then they were as babies but then I knew to check all the basic needs first. Now they can handle many of their basic needs.
I have realized that the key to parenting is making stuff up as you go along. There have been times when I have made up something and my dear hubby looks at me wondering what got into me. Those are the times I just smile and nod until he gets it. Yep, the bobble head look can work.
I am amazed at how fast our children grow. My son has been spending spare time watching videos of some xBox game he wants to get and my daughter is watching music videos on her computer or listening to the Disney Karaoke Channel and singing her heart out. Funny thing is the dogs will watch with her.
Just remember when all less fails to just make it up as you go and they will figure it out much later in life.
Two days later when we left the hospital we were given a book on newborn care, not to mention we already had "What to Expect the First Year". It is kind of ironic considering how many times we tell our kids or even heard ourselves, kids don't come with an instruction book. Well honestly we had an instruction book. Needless to say we really didn't need it my sisters had kids and they all survived, how hard can it truly be?!?!?!
Now as I sit here with a 13 year old boy and a 10 year old girl (going on 15, at least) I really wish I had an instruction book. There are times I still wonder what to do if they cry, because at this point the crying is just as bad as when they were babies but then they had a excuse, they didn't talk. There are times when I chalk it up to growing up. There are times now they are no better at expressing themselves then they were as babies but then I knew to check all the basic needs first. Now they can handle many of their basic needs.
I have realized that the key to parenting is making stuff up as you go along. There have been times when I have made up something and my dear hubby looks at me wondering what got into me. Those are the times I just smile and nod until he gets it. Yep, the bobble head look can work.
I am amazed at how fast our children grow. My son has been spending spare time watching videos of some xBox game he wants to get and my daughter is watching music videos on her computer or listening to the Disney Karaoke Channel and singing her heart out. Funny thing is the dogs will watch with her.
Just remember when all less fails to just make it up as you go and they will figure it out much later in life.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
A Homeschool Mom...from her, to me, to share
There I was minding my own business writing some of my personal ramblings to share with the world and I was tagged in a blog by another blogger. OK so now what?! After a little research I am able to finish the task put toward me. Thank you Garden Tenders for the tag. So the task is to answer some questions about homeschooling...so without further adieu:
1. One homeschooling book you have enjoyed: What book? I did not get a book when this was laid on our hearts. I did, however, get Learning Coach Guides from WAVA to help me explain the lessons but I have no book on homeschooling.
2. One resource I wouldn't be without: Honestly I think that would be my sense of humor or the Internet but really my sense of humor helps more than the Internet at this point.
3. One resource I wish I had never bought: Well I have bought no resources at this point in time. We have resources which were sent to us through WAVA and all of the resources we have already had, but we have not purchased anything.
4. One resource I enjoyed last year: This is our first year with home based education for our kids so there is nothing to base this question on honestly...but I will say I miss the peace and quiet from last year.
5. One resource I will be using next year: Next year I hope to be feeling as positive about homeschooling as I am right now, minus the peace and quiet thing, but I will be using other mom's advice and thoughts again. Sometimes I just love to read what the other moms are saying about their own days with the kiddos, makes me realize I am not alone on this wild ride.
6. One resource I would like to buy: Ask me again in June. With the availability of so many resources online it is hard to determine what to buy, what to download, or what to ignore for now.
7. One resource I wish existed: A clone of myself to clean the house. Thank Heaven and the Powers that be my hubby is available to help with many chores in the house or some lessons so I can do chores or even breathe.
8. One home school catalog I enjoy: CATALOG!!! Who has time for a catalog? Between the kids, the hubby, the house, and my own schooling I am lucky I have time to read the mail.
9. One home school website I use regularly: WAVA and Facebook Yep you read me correctly, Facebook. I have made wonderful home school or virtual academy families on Facebook and they have been THE BEST resources in the world.
10. This said to tag other homeschoolers but I honestly do not know many home school blogs, sorry. If you have any to recommend for me to read please post in comments.
Now I know there are a few of you out there reading this and laughing and even more that do not feel sorry for me since this is a choice I made. Please laugh at me and my adventure but never think you need to feel sorry for me, I am loving this more than you can dream of. The greatest joy we have experienced has been the chance to have the kids home for school. All those 90 degree days we schooled in the morning, lake in the middle of the day, and schooled again in the evening when it was cooler. No two days are the same!
1. One homeschooling book you have enjoyed: What book? I did not get a book when this was laid on our hearts. I did, however, get Learning Coach Guides from WAVA to help me explain the lessons but I have no book on homeschooling.
2. One resource I wouldn't be without: Honestly I think that would be my sense of humor or the Internet but really my sense of humor helps more than the Internet at this point.
3. One resource I wish I had never bought: Well I have bought no resources at this point in time. We have resources which were sent to us through WAVA and all of the resources we have already had, but we have not purchased anything.
4. One resource I enjoyed last year: This is our first year with home based education for our kids so there is nothing to base this question on honestly...but I will say I miss the peace and quiet from last year.
5. One resource I will be using next year: Next year I hope to be feeling as positive about homeschooling as I am right now, minus the peace and quiet thing, but I will be using other mom's advice and thoughts again. Sometimes I just love to read what the other moms are saying about their own days with the kiddos, makes me realize I am not alone on this wild ride.
6. One resource I would like to buy: Ask me again in June. With the availability of so many resources online it is hard to determine what to buy, what to download, or what to ignore for now.
7. One resource I wish existed: A clone of myself to clean the house. Thank Heaven and the Powers that be my hubby is available to help with many chores in the house or some lessons so I can do chores or even breathe.
8. One home school catalog I enjoy: CATALOG!!! Who has time for a catalog? Between the kids, the hubby, the house, and my own schooling I am lucky I have time to read the mail.
9. One home school website I use regularly: WAVA and Facebook Yep you read me correctly, Facebook. I have made wonderful home school or virtual academy families on Facebook and they have been THE BEST resources in the world.
10. This said to tag other homeschoolers but I honestly do not know many home school blogs, sorry. If you have any to recommend for me to read please post in comments.
Now I know there are a few of you out there reading this and laughing and even more that do not feel sorry for me since this is a choice I made. Please laugh at me and my adventure but never think you need to feel sorry for me, I am loving this more than you can dream of. The greatest joy we have experienced has been the chance to have the kids home for school. All those 90 degree days we schooled in the morning, lake in the middle of the day, and schooled again in the evening when it was cooler. No two days are the same!
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