This year for Christmas I got my very own Miracle on N Street!
A bit of background information first. I'm somewhere between moderately and severely hearing impaired. I may or may not not have mentioned it in my 100 things about me post, I can't remember. Most of my regular readers are friends who know this. So a year and a half ago I got hearing aids. They were $2,000 each and insurance doesn't cover them (even IF I HAD insurance, which I didn't and still don't). Enter Casper. Yup, suffice it to say I now have a $4,000 dog and no hearing aids.
I've tried everything I could think of because there's no way I can pay the $4,000. The loss and damage warranty expired in May, 6 months ago. I couldn't find help anywhere. The audiologist didn't hold out much hope but said I could bring them in and he'd see if the company could repair them since that might be cheaper and within my reach. On Monday I got a call from the receptionist. They were NOT fixable BUT for no reason that I know of the company, Oticon*Delta, was extending the warranty! THAT'S RIGHT! A company was bending over backwards to help an individual! As of next week I'll have 2 brand new hearing aids! I don't know why and I don't care. They didn't have to. Not that any or many of you need hearing aids lol but I thought they deserved a shout out. So thanks for restoring my faith in human decency, Oticon*Delta!
By the way, I was doing some research on them...their motto is People First. How about that?
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
More Holiday Fun
It was a nice Christmas. The boys have been SO well behaved, even now. They're playing together nicely and have just been fun to be around. All of them. I love it! I took a lot of pics but not a lot turned out that well. Still, I thought I'd share one of each boy with a present.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Christmas This Year
The stockings were hung in the window with care....
The boys in new jammies knew that Santa soon would be there!
After his visit presents flowed wall to wall...
Hope a Merry Christmas was had by one and all!
The boys in new jammies knew that Santa soon would be there!
After his visit presents flowed wall to wall...
Hope a Merry Christmas was had by one and all!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Cutie Patooties
I just had to share! I guess NaNoBloMo got my posting juices flowing lol. Hmmm. Not actually. I have a few posts kicking around in drafts or in my head but it'll be a few days most likely til I get to them now that November is over. I hope to post more than I used to, though.
PS~I was able to add in a background on the boys' school pics. Check it out!
Monday, November 30, 2009
You Might Be a Redneck If...
Your children have the Monday and Tuesday following Thanksgiving off from school for Deer Hunting days (the beginning of deer hunting season).
Happy Hunting! And my freezer has lots of room. Ya know, if you get lucky. Just sayin' ;)
Happy Hunting! And my freezer has lots of room. Ya know, if you get lucky. Just sayin' ;)
Sunday, November 29, 2009
The Gift
Many times in the adoption world the word gift is used. I've read that many adoptees and mothers of loss don't like this term in reference to adoption. I think they feel the word gift objectifies and devalues the adoptee and the pain both feel. I can understand that to a point but I think most adoptive parents don’t mean it that way. It comes down to a situation that causes emotions for all involved that are so very hard to put into words.
Let me try to explain to you what I mean when I say my boys are gifts. I think they are gifts of God given first to their other parents then to me through them. (That part is the same for me even though I adopted through foster care.) When most adoptive parents say they’ve been given a gift I don’t think they mean to imply that the baby is an object with a limited, though great, value. I think it’s more that we’ve been given what we wanted most in life, the chance to be a mother (or father). And you can’t put a price on that. In my opinion the word gift doesn't even begin to cover what that means but I can't think of a better one.
And here's where I get a little mad and insulted. Most “adopters” (ugh, I hate that word) appreciate that "gift" AT LEAST as much as any mom who gave birth. In general most people I think would agree that the more you go through to get something so important to you, the greater the appreciation you have for it. We went through as much, though in a totally different way, as those who gave birth. Let's be realistic. If we were talking about a posession instead of a child there wouldn’t be too many arguing over that. For example two men want Jags. One comes from a rich family and daddy buys it for him. The other works and saves most of his life and finally can afford to buy the car of his dreams. Who do you think appreciates the car more? And NO! I AM NOT CALLING A BABY A POSSESSION! Neither am I implying that it's about money. The exact opposite is actually my point. It's about the time, work, and emotion invested in the process. Because it IS a baby the emotions are infinitetly more intense and prevent the people involved from seeing this. Still, I dare say most of those moms who gave birth to their children feel that they are blessings or gifts too. They don't get taken to task for that. So it seems to me that mothers of loss and adoptees are implying that that blessing or gift has less meaning to us or that we deserve it less. Granted I’m assuming a little here but I don’t think it’s that much of a stretch. I’d be interested in responses from them, especially to set me straight if I’m wrong on either count. I don’t think that I was ”entitled” to any one woman’s child BUT I do think I deserved to be a mother. I never wanted my children at the cost of another woman’s pain but the fact is that SOME people DON’T deserve to be parents. Some of those people have kids anyway and those kids need homes. Are we worth so much less that we shouldn't be allowed to appreciate our children and our parenthood? Are our children not entitled to be treasured that way?
Let me try to explain to you what I mean when I say my boys are gifts. I think they are gifts of God given first to their other parents then to me through them. (That part is the same for me even though I adopted through foster care.) When most adoptive parents say they’ve been given a gift I don’t think they mean to imply that the baby is an object with a limited, though great, value. I think it’s more that we’ve been given what we wanted most in life, the chance to be a mother (or father). And you can’t put a price on that. In my opinion the word gift doesn't even begin to cover what that means but I can't think of a better one.
And here's where I get a little mad and insulted. Most “adopters” (ugh, I hate that word) appreciate that "gift" AT LEAST as much as any mom who gave birth. In general most people I think would agree that the more you go through to get something so important to you, the greater the appreciation you have for it. We went through as much, though in a totally different way, as those who gave birth. Let's be realistic. If we were talking about a posession instead of a child there wouldn’t be too many arguing over that. For example two men want Jags. One comes from a rich family and daddy buys it for him. The other works and saves most of his life and finally can afford to buy the car of his dreams. Who do you think appreciates the car more? And NO! I AM NOT CALLING A BABY A POSSESSION! Neither am I implying that it's about money. The exact opposite is actually my point. It's about the time, work, and emotion invested in the process. Because it IS a baby the emotions are infinitetly more intense and prevent the people involved from seeing this. Still, I dare say most of those moms who gave birth to their children feel that they are blessings or gifts too. They don't get taken to task for that. So it seems to me that mothers of loss and adoptees are implying that that blessing or gift has less meaning to us or that we deserve it less. Granted I’m assuming a little here but I don’t think it’s that much of a stretch. I’d be interested in responses from them, especially to set me straight if I’m wrong on either count. I don’t think that I was ”entitled” to any one woman’s child BUT I do think I deserved to be a mother. I never wanted my children at the cost of another woman’s pain but the fact is that SOME people DON’T deserve to be parents. Some of those people have kids anyway and those kids need homes. Are we worth so much less that we shouldn't be allowed to appreciate our children and our parenthood? Are our children not entitled to be treasured that way?
Saturday, November 28, 2009
50 things About Lil Ole Me
50 things about Lil Ole Me
Found this on another blog. Lot of the questions are fun and/or different than the post I did for my 100th so I thought I'd do it.
1. What do you add to your coffee? Cream, sometimes flavored.
2. What are you reading now? I'm soon going to start Book 11 in the Wheel of Time series.
3. Do you own a gun? No.
4. Are you registered to vote? Yes.
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Only before the gyn appointment.
6. What do you think of hot dogs? They're ok for a quick fix. I like them best grilled.
7. Favorite Christmas Song? "O Holy Night."
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Coffee
9. Can you do push ups? Yup
10. What was the name of your first boyfriend/girlfriend? Jim
11. What’s your favorite piece of jewelry? a little girl's ring my Grandma gave me. I don't wear much but I have that on a chain and a couple of other necklaces I wear. I also have some pins I wear when teaching.
12. Favorite hobby? Reading if I have to pick only one.
13. Do you work with people who idolize you? Um, NO!
14. Do you have ADD? Probably lol.
15. What’s one trait that you hate about yourself? I get tense and impatient when stressed and the boys know it.
16. What’s your Middle name? Jean
17. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment. I'm cold, I'm hungry, and feeling better than when I wrote my last post.
18. Name 3 things you bought yesterday. Nothing. We didn't even go to a store.
19. Name 3 beverages you regularly drink. Water, coffee, and iced tea.
20. Current worry right now? Money.
21. What size do you wear? I don't think so lol.
22. Favorite place to be? Home.
23. How did you bring in the New Year? Ate great food and watched movies with the boys.
24. Where would you like to go? Disney?
25. Name three people who will complete this. Not a clue.
26. Whose answers do you want to read the most? Anyone who feels like answering it.
27. What color shirt are you wearing? Green.
28. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? NO!!!
29. Can you whistle? Yes
30. Favorite color(s)? Green
31. Could you be a pirate? UM...no. Seriously? LOL.
32. What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't sing in the shower.
33. Favorite girls name? Emily Renee currently.
34. Favorite boy’s name? Connor Matthew.
35. What’s in your pocket right now? Nuthin'.
36. Last thing that made you laugh? Cory.
37. Best bed sheets as a child? Pink with flowers when I was real little, tan stripes when older.
38. Worst injury you’ve ever had? I guess I'd have to say dislocating my knees. Yes, as in BOTH of them. Not at the same time thank God.
39. Do you love where you live? Yes, mostly. I love our town, I love the location of our home. I feel like it's pretty cozy in the emotional "vibe" it gives off. It needs a lot of work structurally, though.
40. How many TVs do you have in your house? 3- one in the living room, one in the playroom, and one in my bedroom (no cable to that one...I only watch dvds on it.)
41. Who is your loudest friend? Love ya, Renee! LOL.
42. How many dogs do you have? One, Casper.
43. Does anyone have a crush on you? Not that I know of.
44. What are the most fun things you ever did? Before mommyhood I'd say some concerts I went to in college. After mommyhood I'd say the vacation with the boys last year.
45. What are your favorite books? Specifically the Harry Potter and Twilght series. I also like mysteries, especially funny ones like the Stephanie Plum, Kinsey Milhone, Spellman family, and the Cat Who... series.
46. What is your favorite candy? Anything chocolate.
47. Favorite Team? the Philadephia Eagles.
48. What songs do you want played at your funeral? Never thought about it. Not sad ones, though. Maybe each of the boys could pick one song that represents what I meant to them.
49. What were you doing at 12 AM? Watching tv and nearly falling asleep on the couch.
50. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? Holy cow! It's almost 8am. Either the boys slept late or I was so deep asleep I didn't hear them!
Feel free to do this if you want! I'd love to see people's answers.
Found this on another blog. Lot of the questions are fun and/or different than the post I did for my 100th so I thought I'd do it.
1. What do you add to your coffee? Cream, sometimes flavored.
2. What are you reading now? I'm soon going to start Book 11 in the Wheel of Time series.
3. Do you own a gun? No.
4. Are you registered to vote? Yes.
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Only before the gyn appointment.
6. What do you think of hot dogs? They're ok for a quick fix. I like them best grilled.
7. Favorite Christmas Song? "O Holy Night."
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Coffee
9. Can you do push ups? Yup
10. What was the name of your first boyfriend/girlfriend? Jim
11. What’s your favorite piece of jewelry? a little girl's ring my Grandma gave me. I don't wear much but I have that on a chain and a couple of other necklaces I wear. I also have some pins I wear when teaching.
12. Favorite hobby? Reading if I have to pick only one.
13. Do you work with people who idolize you? Um, NO!
14. Do you have ADD? Probably lol.
15. What’s one trait that you hate about yourself? I get tense and impatient when stressed and the boys know it.
16. What’s your Middle name? Jean
17. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment. I'm cold, I'm hungry, and feeling better than when I wrote my last post.
18. Name 3 things you bought yesterday. Nothing. We didn't even go to a store.
19. Name 3 beverages you regularly drink. Water, coffee, and iced tea.
20. Current worry right now? Money.
21. What size do you wear? I don't think so lol.
22. Favorite place to be? Home.
23. How did you bring in the New Year? Ate great food and watched movies with the boys.
24. Where would you like to go? Disney?
25. Name three people who will complete this. Not a clue.
26. Whose answers do you want to read the most? Anyone who feels like answering it.
27. What color shirt are you wearing? Green.
28. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? NO!!!
29. Can you whistle? Yes
30. Favorite color(s)? Green
31. Could you be a pirate? UM...no. Seriously? LOL.
32. What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't sing in the shower.
33. Favorite girls name? Emily Renee currently.
34. Favorite boy’s name? Connor Matthew.
35. What’s in your pocket right now? Nuthin'.
36. Last thing that made you laugh? Cory.
37. Best bed sheets as a child? Pink with flowers when I was real little, tan stripes when older.
38. Worst injury you’ve ever had? I guess I'd have to say dislocating my knees. Yes, as in BOTH of them. Not at the same time thank God.
39. Do you love where you live? Yes, mostly. I love our town, I love the location of our home. I feel like it's pretty cozy in the emotional "vibe" it gives off. It needs a lot of work structurally, though.
40. How many TVs do you have in your house? 3- one in the living room, one in the playroom, and one in my bedroom (no cable to that one...I only watch dvds on it.)
41. Who is your loudest friend? Love ya, Renee! LOL.
42. How many dogs do you have? One, Casper.
43. Does anyone have a crush on you? Not that I know of.
44. What are the most fun things you ever did? Before mommyhood I'd say some concerts I went to in college. After mommyhood I'd say the vacation with the boys last year.
45. What are your favorite books? Specifically the Harry Potter and Twilght series. I also like mysteries, especially funny ones like the Stephanie Plum, Kinsey Milhone, Spellman family, and the Cat Who... series.
46. What is your favorite candy? Anything chocolate.
47. Favorite Team? the Philadephia Eagles.
48. What songs do you want played at your funeral? Never thought about it. Not sad ones, though. Maybe each of the boys could pick one song that represents what I meant to them.
49. What were you doing at 12 AM? Watching tv and nearly falling asleep on the couch.
50. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? Holy cow! It's almost 8am. Either the boys slept late or I was so deep asleep I didn't hear them!
Feel free to do this if you want! I'd love to see people's answers.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Off
The last few days I've been a little "off." I'm not quite sure why, though I know that money issues and a missing atm/credit card are probably at least part of it. Maybe it's just that with the boys home more due to Thanksgiving vacation I'm having trouble finding time to pray and work out my problems with Him.
Whatever it is I do know how blessed I am. With the exception of finances (and basics are met so I shouldn't complain) things are going really well right now. Jay has had very little in the way of behaviors lately. For a week now there's been nothing but typical kid misbehavior, and extremely little of that. I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop to a point but mainly just working hard to enjoy it while I can. I know there'll likely be backsliding but I am really hoping we're making true progress all the same.
Oh well. Nothing much to do except make sure I get some time with God and maybe a little more sleep. This too shall pass and before I know it I'll be back "on."
Whatever it is I do know how blessed I am. With the exception of finances (and basics are met so I shouldn't complain) things are going really well right now. Jay has had very little in the way of behaviors lately. For a week now there's been nothing but typical kid misbehavior, and extremely little of that. I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop to a point but mainly just working hard to enjoy it while I can. I know there'll likely be backsliding but I am really hoping we're making true progress all the same.
Oh well. Nothing much to do except make sure I get some time with God and maybe a little more sleep. This too shall pass and before I know it I'll be back "on."
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! We had a great dinner with my parents; my brother and his gf; and my sister, her dh, and fd.
May you all have as much to be thankful for as I do!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Blast from the Past
Here's one of my first pictures of Ty and Cory from back in 04. Ty was 6, Cory 9. They sure have grown up a lot!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Look Alike
If they make a movie from this book, I think Cory should definitely get the part. Don't you?
Monday, November 23, 2009
Fear
Mulling around ideas on what to post about tonight I was thinking about what I'm afraid of. I'm not sure where that came from but here I am anyway. I'm not scared of spiders, mice, or snakes. Bees, wasps, or hornets, though? I'm a shaking pile of mush. I get goosebumps just thinking about them. That's a phobia, though, and not really my GREATEST fear.
So what would that be? I'd say without hesitation that it's losing the boys. I'm sure that's MOST parents' biggest fear but I think mine is heightened by all the time I spent *knowing they may not stay with me. It was over a year in limbo for Ty and Cory and well over two for Jay and Logan. All that time spent in the power of the judge and caseworkers, never knowing when I might get a call that for whatever reason the boys would be going. Even now, a month after being freed from that for good, I'm not totally over feeling that way. It'll ease over time I'm sure. I'll get used to knowing that they're here and safe and that no one else has power over our home and relationships anymore. But for now? My heart still skips a beat sometimes when the phone rings or the dog barks when I'm not expecting someone. I think it's a mild form of PTSD for me actually. I spent, most recently, two years consistantly worrying about Jay and Logan returning to a VERY bad home situation. It only makes sense that it will take my body some time to adjust to the absence of that stress. In the meantime I intend to enjoy my sons and have as normal a life as we possibly can.
*I am NOT debating whether or not they SHOULD have gone home. I did my level best to help Ty's mom get him back, Cory's parents had lost their rights before I met him, and it was blantantly obvious to me early on that it would be very dangerous for Jay and Logan if they went home. I know these things to be fact. Anyone disputing them doesn't have a leg to stand on because that person couldn't know the situations and honestly argue against what I've just said.
So what would that be? I'd say without hesitation that it's losing the boys. I'm sure that's MOST parents' biggest fear but I think mine is heightened by all the time I spent *knowing they may not stay with me. It was over a year in limbo for Ty and Cory and well over two for Jay and Logan. All that time spent in the power of the judge and caseworkers, never knowing when I might get a call that for whatever reason the boys would be going. Even now, a month after being freed from that for good, I'm not totally over feeling that way. It'll ease over time I'm sure. I'll get used to knowing that they're here and safe and that no one else has power over our home and relationships anymore. But for now? My heart still skips a beat sometimes when the phone rings or the dog barks when I'm not expecting someone. I think it's a mild form of PTSD for me actually. I spent, most recently, two years consistantly worrying about Jay and Logan returning to a VERY bad home situation. It only makes sense that it will take my body some time to adjust to the absence of that stress. In the meantime I intend to enjoy my sons and have as normal a life as we possibly can.
*I am NOT debating whether or not they SHOULD have gone home. I did my level best to help Ty's mom get him back, Cory's parents had lost their rights before I met him, and it was blantantly obvious to me early on that it would be very dangerous for Jay and Logan if they went home. I know these things to be fact. Anyone disputing them doesn't have a leg to stand on because that person couldn't know the situations and honestly argue against what I've just said.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Mommy Bragging Cubed
These are two examples of Jay's creativity at work. The "contraption" he made in the vide is a better example of course. I just LOVE that it worked lol. He was so surprized lol. The best run is the first one right as the video starts so pay close attention to that one. He does this sort of thing frequently. He's definitely mechanical, and that includes a great love for taking things apart as well as making things.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
What This Mama Needs...
When I need to rest, relax, and rejuvenate there are certain things that I can do that almost never fail to "hit the spot." So what kind of things do I like to do to take care of me?
Reading is a big one for me. It's me time and I can "get away" to someone else's life.
I love to hit the hot tub. I don't think I need to say more about this one.
Eating good food may not always be healthy for the body but it sure is good for the soul.
Just being able to be alone in my house to think and enjoy the house (especially if it's clean lol).
Pacing and talking/planning/praying/thinking out loud might seem a little crazy but it helps me focus if I hear it out loud. Just don't call the men in white on me, ok? Promise?
Listening to music or audiobooks on my iPod. I love a HUGE variety of music. Music helps me feel and process what I'm feeling. If I'm stressed it can calm me. If I'm tired it can energize me. If I'm sad and need to cry sometimes I need it to help me actually cry and get it out. It starts out being about the song and then flows into working out whatever I'm sad about.
Doing something fun by myself like going for a cup of coffee or to a movie alone.
Doing something fun with my boys.
Doing something fun with my sister, cousin, or friend.
Of course this isn't an exhaustive list but it hits my major go tos that I use. I'm sure most are quite commonly used. I'd love to hear what you all do for R and R when you need it. Feel free to comment!
Reading is a big one for me. It's me time and I can "get away" to someone else's life.
I love to hit the hot tub. I don't think I need to say more about this one.
Eating good food may not always be healthy for the body but it sure is good for the soul.
Just being able to be alone in my house to think and enjoy the house (especially if it's clean lol).
Pacing and talking/planning/praying/thinking out loud might seem a little crazy but it helps me focus if I hear it out loud. Just don't call the men in white on me, ok? Promise?
Listening to music or audiobooks on my iPod. I love a HUGE variety of music. Music helps me feel and process what I'm feeling. If I'm stressed it can calm me. If I'm tired it can energize me. If I'm sad and need to cry sometimes I need it to help me actually cry and get it out. It starts out being about the song and then flows into working out whatever I'm sad about.
Doing something fun by myself like going for a cup of coffee or to a movie alone.
Doing something fun with my boys.
Doing something fun with my sister, cousin, or friend.
Of course this isn't an exhaustive list but it hits my major go tos that I use. I'm sure most are quite commonly used. I'd love to hear what you all do for R and R when you need it. Feel free to comment!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Cooking Part 2
I guess it's my lack of self-confidence when it comes to cooking that causes me to be leery of trying to make a dish I've never made before. It doesn't seem to matter how easy I'm told it is to make. Tonight? I was making sloppy joes for six of us (B was here) and I FORGOT to buy the sauce. I dug in and made a quick homemade version for the first time ever and it was a major hit with all of us. Sometimes the simplest things make me proud and happy lol.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thankful
10 things I'm thankful for tonight:
1. God.
2. My boys (of course lol).
3. My friends and family.
4. My furbabies.
5. Answered prayers.
6. Having enough to eat.
7. A warm house.
8. The health of my loved ones.
9. My health.
10. Music.
1. God.
2. My boys (of course lol).
3. My friends and family.
4. My furbabies.
5. Answered prayers.
6. Having enough to eat.
7. A warm house.
8. The health of my loved ones.
9. My health.
10. Music.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Had to Share
My sister sent me this in an email. I just thought the baby was so cute I had to share! I love animals lol.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Cooking
I mentioned before that I LOVE food. I've always loved to eat and most of my family are great cooks. For the longest time I thought the cooking "gene" had skipped me lol. When I was a nanny and then living on my own I had three or four staples I made but I didn't cook much. Tuna noodle casserole and green bean casserole were my go to "dishes to pass" when I needed one. I still use them to a point. I made lasagna and eggplant parm for the last family I nannied for on occasion. It wasn't until I had all 4 boys that I really settled down to cooking on a regular basis. LOL Cory, Ty, and I ate a lot of processed food and Mc'Ds before Jay and Logan arrived. The more cooking I did, of course, the better I got. I really enjoy cooking, especially now that Cory has taken an interest and cooks with me quite often. And I enjoy the process, the food itself, and even the occasional compliment or thank you from the boys! It adds a whole new dimension to enjoying the food I'm eating.
Monday, November 16, 2009
School Pics 09
Edited to update the photos!!!!
Here are the boys' school pics this year. I downloaded them off the company's website. They got wise I guess this year and didn't put a background in them if you weren't paying lol. You can still see all the cuteness for free, though.
Here are the boys' school pics this year. I downloaded them off the company's website. They got wise I guess this year and didn't put a background in them if you weren't paying lol. You can still see all the cuteness for free, though.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Saturday, November 14, 2009
More Bragging, Different Child
In the picture above is an example of "kidwriting," If you don't know what that is it's basically where a kid writes with no help. They're encouraged to at least find the first and last sounds in each word. In the above picture they were doing a project on Columbus. You can see the person (Columbus) and his three ships. What I'm so proud of is how close he came to sounding out the sentence he decided to write about him.
In case you can't see it in the pic Logan wrote:
HE f_d Umic.
(the _ is the "magic symbol" they use if they know there's more sounds but can't figure them out.)
The adult writing is the teacher writing what Logan was trying to write:
He found America.
Not too shabby for an early kindergartener. I'm not surprized really. He is so good at reading. He sounds out words quickly and correctly and knows at least 40 words by sight. Read and write on, Logan! I'm proud of you!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Meant to Be
Writing about B in yesterday's post reminded me that I haven't mentioned her on my blog before. I'm not going to give many details or tell her whole story but I do want to tell how she came to be my sister's foster to adopt dd.
Three years ago my sister got a job as a driver for a foster care agency. Her job, simply put, is to drive foster children to visits and appointments when neccessary. This agency covers a large area so some days she might be driving several hours one way for these trips. Soon after starting with the agency she began taking B on trips weekly. Her parents' rights had been terminated but she had visits with an aunt who intended to adopt B "when her behavior improves." Val also took her to dentist appointments, counseling appointments, and whatever else was neccessary. She brought her snacks and they talked and played games on these trips. Val began to talk about B frequently. She'd tell us cute things she said, how she did on her report card, or what B was up to in general. It's safe to say Val loved B then and has ever since.
Fast forward to July of this summer. Val heard at work that B's aunt had finally said she would not be adopting her and the current foster family was suddenly out as well. B had been moved to respite care and was looking at a new long term foster placement with a different family. Val was devastated because she hadn't known in time to have a chance for B to be placed with her. After a conversation about it with Val, the cw knew just who to call when the new placement fell through days later before B even had a chance to move in. The agency extended B's respite while they worked with Val and her dh to get them approved and B was living with them before the start of the school year.
During the process of Val and her dh being certified as foster parents, B of course had to be told what was happening. On a home visit the day after having that conversation with B, the cw told Val how it went. She told B that she wouldn't be going to live with the H family after all, but that Val and her husband wanted her to come live with them. At this point the cw got tears in her eyes and told Val that B's eyes got as big as pie plates and she gasped and said, "MY Val? MY Val wants me?"
You can argue all you want about whether B should've been removed from her parent's care. *You can debate whether the aunt that only wanted her if she could be "be good" would've been a good placement. I just don't see how you can look at how the pieces fell into place this summer or B's reaction and say that B wasn't meant to be with Val and her dh. It doesn't negate the good OR the bad of her past or her family. **Simply put people have free will and are going to do what they do. That doesn't mean God can't or won't use those actions to create something good and meant to be.
*I, by the way, would argue that she would NOT have made a decent placement. Children with issues like Jay and B won't get better to be loved and accepted, they'll get better if they ARE loved and accepted.
**I'd like to note that I saw this expressed in very similar words on another blog. I used it because it expresses what I believe but was struggling to find a way to say. I apologize to the author because it's not a blog I read frequently and I've looked but have ben unable to find it again so that I can give proper credit. If i find it later I'll update.
Three years ago my sister got a job as a driver for a foster care agency. Her job, simply put, is to drive foster children to visits and appointments when neccessary. This agency covers a large area so some days she might be driving several hours one way for these trips. Soon after starting with the agency she began taking B on trips weekly. Her parents' rights had been terminated but she had visits with an aunt who intended to adopt B "when her behavior improves." Val also took her to dentist appointments, counseling appointments, and whatever else was neccessary. She brought her snacks and they talked and played games on these trips. Val began to talk about B frequently. She'd tell us cute things she said, how she did on her report card, or what B was up to in general. It's safe to say Val loved B then and has ever since.
Fast forward to July of this summer. Val heard at work that B's aunt had finally said she would not be adopting her and the current foster family was suddenly out as well. B had been moved to respite care and was looking at a new long term foster placement with a different family. Val was devastated because she hadn't known in time to have a chance for B to be placed with her. After a conversation about it with Val, the cw knew just who to call when the new placement fell through days later before B even had a chance to move in. The agency extended B's respite while they worked with Val and her dh to get them approved and B was living with them before the start of the school year.
During the process of Val and her dh being certified as foster parents, B of course had to be told what was happening. On a home visit the day after having that conversation with B, the cw told Val how it went. She told B that she wouldn't be going to live with the H family after all, but that Val and her husband wanted her to come live with them. At this point the cw got tears in her eyes and told Val that B's eyes got as big as pie plates and she gasped and said, "MY Val? MY Val wants me?"
You can argue all you want about whether B should've been removed from her parent's care. *You can debate whether the aunt that only wanted her if she could be "be good" would've been a good placement. I just don't see how you can look at how the pieces fell into place this summer or B's reaction and say that B wasn't meant to be with Val and her dh. It doesn't negate the good OR the bad of her past or her family. **Simply put people have free will and are going to do what they do. That doesn't mean God can't or won't use those actions to create something good and meant to be.
*I, by the way, would argue that she would NOT have made a decent placement. Children with issues like Jay and B won't get better to be loved and accepted, they'll get better if they ARE loved and accepted.
**I'd like to note that I saw this expressed in very similar words on another blog. I used it because it expresses what I believe but was struggling to find a way to say. I apologize to the author because it's not a blog I read frequently and I've looked but have ben unable to find it again so that I can give proper credit. If i find it later I'll update.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Crazy Day
I didn't get called in to work today so I thought I'd get some stuff done around the house and maybe relax a bit. Yeah...not so much.
I got out the vacuum to do the floors downstairs quick and it starts to smoke and I smelled rubber burning. Just the belt, an easy fix but still, kwim? Just as I was walking out the door to go get a new one my friend Nancy stopped by. She wanted to come along so we ran to a few stores in the process. Fun but certainly not the plan for the day.
By the time I got back and did a little bit of cleaning/straightening up I had decided to leave again to do a few more errands (this time on my own.) Just as I was leaving the phone rang. It was my sister. A bit of back history...she has a foster dd, B. They live about 30 mins away but B's school is about 15 mins away. B had a half day today and was supposed to go to the after school program since Val and her dh were working. I was going to pick her up there and watch her til Val could pick her up about 6:30. The phone call? Val in a panic after finding out nearly an hour AFTER school release that the school had messed up and sent her to the empty house! Luckily B called her friend and told her friend's mom, who called the school, who called Val, who called me. Did you follow all that? LOL. I couldn't get there and back before I had to get Logan so I picked him up early and headed there as quickly as I could.
Meanwhile, I thought all of my children would be accounted for lol. Ty was hanging out at the neighbor's after school anyway, Cory had Math tutoring til 5:30, and Jay had homework club til 3:30 and then on Thursdays my friend Sharon from school brings him home just for the fun of it. Guess what? SHE FORGOT HIM! LOL. No problem though. The school called her and she went back for him and took him out to eat to make it up to him. Which led to a change in dinner plans. We all ended grabbing Mc'D's then, after running B to and picking her up from her ballet class lol.
We finally get homework done, including a homemade necklace for Logan's class project. He puts it away (or so I thought) and settles to watch a movie. B and Jay had made necklaces as well so I didn't think anything of it at first when Jay asked "Who's is this?" about one that had almost nothing on it. Turns out it was Logan's. He'd put it in his backpack but didn't zip it. The dog got it and ate the noodles and cheerios off it so at 7 at night Logan was making another necklace.
And at bath time? Jay took a shower and ended up having soapy water on the floor, ceiling, walls, and door of the entire bathroom. It took us 10 mins working together to clean it up.
Oh well. It's over now, right? LOL.
I got out the vacuum to do the floors downstairs quick and it starts to smoke and I smelled rubber burning. Just the belt, an easy fix but still, kwim? Just as I was walking out the door to go get a new one my friend Nancy stopped by. She wanted to come along so we ran to a few stores in the process. Fun but certainly not the plan for the day.
By the time I got back and did a little bit of cleaning/straightening up I had decided to leave again to do a few more errands (this time on my own.) Just as I was leaving the phone rang. It was my sister. A bit of back history...she has a foster dd, B. They live about 30 mins away but B's school is about 15 mins away. B had a half day today and was supposed to go to the after school program since Val and her dh were working. I was going to pick her up there and watch her til Val could pick her up about 6:30. The phone call? Val in a panic after finding out nearly an hour AFTER school release that the school had messed up and sent her to the empty house! Luckily B called her friend and told her friend's mom, who called the school, who called Val, who called me. Did you follow all that? LOL. I couldn't get there and back before I had to get Logan so I picked him up early and headed there as quickly as I could.
Meanwhile, I thought all of my children would be accounted for lol. Ty was hanging out at the neighbor's after school anyway, Cory had Math tutoring til 5:30, and Jay had homework club til 3:30 and then on Thursdays my friend Sharon from school brings him home just for the fun of it. Guess what? SHE FORGOT HIM! LOL. No problem though. The school called her and she went back for him and took him out to eat to make it up to him. Which led to a change in dinner plans. We all ended grabbing Mc'D's then, after running B to and picking her up from her ballet class lol.
We finally get homework done, including a homemade necklace for Logan's class project. He puts it away (or so I thought) and settles to watch a movie. B and Jay had made necklaces as well so I didn't think anything of it at first when Jay asked "Who's is this?" about one that had almost nothing on it. Turns out it was Logan's. He'd put it in his backpack but didn't zip it. The dog got it and ate the noodles and cheerios off it so at 7 at night Logan was making another necklace.
And at bath time? Jay took a shower and ended up having soapy water on the floor, ceiling, walls, and door of the entire bathroom. It took us 10 mins working together to clean it up.
Oh well. It's over now, right? LOL.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Veterans Day
I'm not sure what I can say that hasn't been already said. I know many vets, as I said last year, so thanks again to them (mom, dad, Grampa's C and K, C and K Uncles, Kimmi, and cousin Cory).
To each and every vet, please know that you have my deepest gratitude and respect. Thank you.
To each and every vet, please know that you have my deepest gratitude and respect. Thank you.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Serious Mommy Bragging
Cory has been having a great year in school so far. I just posted a few days ago about his report card (ahem...all A's and B's and he made the honor roll). I'd also like to mention that he recently came home with a "Hornet Pride" award. The Hornets are our mascots obviously. The award itself is for "contributions made to the school" in the areas of citizenship, academics, and athletics. And as far as athletics go? He was one of the top 5 runners on the cross country team. He made the difference between a win and a loss at one meet for them. And tonight? Well, we just got back from a school board meeting because the boys' cross country team was being recognized for being undefeated this season. I guess all in all I have a reason to brag a little lol.
Monday, November 9, 2009
God is In the LIttle Things
I've always had a pretty strong faith in God. I've seen Him act in some mighty big moments in my life (perhaps one or two of those is another blog post?). Today I saw him in the little things as the day unfolded. It was wonderful, though I can't really put into words why it meant so much to me.
To begin the day I had to get Ty to a dentist appointment 30 mins away. The morning went smoothly, including no major behaviors from Jay. We got the others to school and were on our way on time and good to go.
Yesterday I had realized, though, that Logan had a counseling appointment 15 mins away at a time near enough to Ty's dentist appointment that I didn't think we'd make it. I couldn't even cancel it because they're not open on weekends or before we had to be on the road today. I chose to let it go and try to make it. We got out of the dentist and back into town in time for me to drop Ty off at his school and go get Logan at his. The session went well according to the therapist.
After returning Logan to school I got back home just in time to get a call from my cousin asking if I wanted to meet for lunch. Fun! It was great.
After lunch I ran a few errands and got everything I had to do done. This included finding something I've been looking for/wanting for quite some time. What? Earbuds for my iPod. A little thing I know but I really enjoy my music and audiobooks. I've been looking all over town and I hadn't found what I wanted. They were either too expensive or weren't the kind I wanted. Today? I felt lead to check the Dollar General. I didn't think they'd have what I wanted but I stopped to look. Sure enough they had the kind I wanted for $4!!!! I'm sooo happy. Jay wants that kind as well and loves pink and there was even a pink pair for me to get for him for Christmas!
See? A bunch of little things working together to make a busy day that much smoother and happier!
To begin the day I had to get Ty to a dentist appointment 30 mins away. The morning went smoothly, including no major behaviors from Jay. We got the others to school and were on our way on time and good to go.
Yesterday I had realized, though, that Logan had a counseling appointment 15 mins away at a time near enough to Ty's dentist appointment that I didn't think we'd make it. I couldn't even cancel it because they're not open on weekends or before we had to be on the road today. I chose to let it go and try to make it. We got out of the dentist and back into town in time for me to drop Ty off at his school and go get Logan at his. The session went well according to the therapist.
After returning Logan to school I got back home just in time to get a call from my cousin asking if I wanted to meet for lunch. Fun! It was great.
After lunch I ran a few errands and got everything I had to do done. This included finding something I've been looking for/wanting for quite some time. What? Earbuds for my iPod. A little thing I know but I really enjoy my music and audiobooks. I've been looking all over town and I hadn't found what I wanted. They were either too expensive or weren't the kind I wanted. Today? I felt lead to check the Dollar General. I didn't think they'd have what I wanted but I stopped to look. Sure enough they had the kind I wanted for $4!!!! I'm sooo happy. Jay wants that kind as well and loves pink and there was even a pink pair for me to get for him for Christmas!
See? A bunch of little things working together to make a busy day that much smoother and happier!
Sunday, November 8, 2009
My Mommy and Daddy
I love my mom and dad. They stopped by for a bit today and it was just really pleasant. My dad went around and put all the storm windows down. I really appreciated it, though I do just want to mention that I know how and am full capable of doing it lol. While he was doing that my mom gave the boys money for the A's on their report cards and we sat and chatted. Days like today remind me how lucky I am to have the family I have. I love them all!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Stuffed French Toast
Many of my friends and family are "foodies" and along with that, great cooks. It's been a saying in my family for as long as I can remember that "Some people eat to live, we live to eat!" So as you can imagine we exchange recipes and ideas a lot. I especially enjoy doing this with my friends Renee, Camille, and Kathy. Well, I'm a good cook but still a relative newbie as I didn't cook much until I had the boys. That means they do most of the sharing of recipes lol. Anyway, for lunch today I made a stuffed french toast that Renee told me how to make. Well, it's not so much a recipe if you already know how to make french toast as it is an idea to take it to the next level. It's actually quite easy but we all thought it was to die for!
First, make your basic egg mixture to dip the toast in. (Eggs, milk/cream, and I add in some vanilla and cinnamon.)
Take two slices of whatever bread you're using and spread cream cheese on one slice and jam on the other. Renee suggested raspberry, which I LOVE, but I used strawberry due to some pickiness here hehehe. Anyway, put the slices of bread together like you were making a sandwich.
Dip the "sandwich" in the egg mixture and heat in a pan on the stove like you would regular french toast. It all melts together and sticks in one piece like a grilled cheese. Top with syrup or powdered sugar if desired.
It was SOOOOO good and so easy. If you make this, enjoy! And thanks Renee!
First, make your basic egg mixture to dip the toast in. (Eggs, milk/cream, and I add in some vanilla and cinnamon.)
Take two slices of whatever bread you're using and spread cream cheese on one slice and jam on the other. Renee suggested raspberry, which I LOVE, but I used strawberry due to some pickiness here hehehe. Anyway, put the slices of bread together like you were making a sandwich.
Dip the "sandwich" in the egg mixture and heat in a pan on the stove like you would regular french toast. It all melts together and sticks in one piece like a grilled cheese. Top with syrup or powdered sugar if desired.
It was SOOOOO good and so easy. If you make this, enjoy! And thanks Renee!
Friday, November 6, 2009
Report Cards
The boys brought home report cards from the first nine weeks of school today. I'm happy. They all did pretty well. Ty's sure didn't show how smart he really is but I'm not too worried because he had a rough start at the beginning of the year. I actually feel bad because I should've picked up on the fact that his ADHD was not under control much sooner than I did. We did a mild increase in his med and it made an instant difference. I really think this next nine weeks will be much better for him. Jay does exceptionally well in Reading and had A's in Social Studlies and Science as well. Math has been a bit hard for him this year but he tries and he'll get it in the end. Logan is off to a great start. He's a bit rocky on numbers but he's already reading more than 30 words. Cory? WOW. His lowest grade was a "B." That's right! Mr. I Don't Care If I Pass 7th Grade and I Have the Grades To Prove It is ROCKING it this year. GOOOOOO Cory!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Done, Done, Done
And did I mention that I was done? LOL.
With what you ask?
Foster care! I officially mailed in my resignation letter earlier this week. Why now? I wouldn't have made the choice so quickly after finalizing the boys' adoptions except my foster care license needed to be renewed. So it was either get them in here to do it or officially resign. Pushed to make a choice I took some time to consider and pray and decided to resign.
Ok. I'm processing this still. I'm not enitrely sure how I feel about it. I guess that's to be expected. There are a lot of both good and negative feelings associated with foster care for me. That I guess should be expected too. I am so blessed to have my boys. I'm proud of the work I did when I was working with A, Ty's mom. Whatever my feelings were at the time about not wanting to lose Ty I worked hard for their reunification. On the other hand, I saw a lot of incompetence happening in Jay and Logan's case. I'm not excluding myself. I KNEW they couldn't go home but I do have regrets looking back at the over two years of the case. I never did anything unethical or illegal but I pushed too hard in some places, trusted some of the wrong people, and didn't make myself be heard when I should have. I might post more about that but I need to think about that as it is Jay and Logan's story. There's also a little bit of sadness because it feels over and final now. More on that in a minute. But there's also happiness in being able to lead a more "normal" life now. I don't have to call to ask permission to leave the county, cut the boys' hair, or take the boys to the doctor if needed. We don't have to schedule cw visits. There are no more court hearings. All very good things lol. So like I said before, mixed feelings lol.
Now. Is this resignation as a resource family permanent? I can't answer that right now. I feel like our family is complete now. I'm not sure I could give the boys all the extra support they need because of their issues if I added another child now. However, I WOULD probably be willing to foster Ty's sister should she ever come into care. And another thing...my mom says she doesn't think I'm done. But what she sees is me fostering when I'm older and the boys are grown. I can sure see that as a possibility. Well, only time and God's guidance will tell from here. Looking forward to the future!
With what you ask?
Foster care! I officially mailed in my resignation letter earlier this week. Why now? I wouldn't have made the choice so quickly after finalizing the boys' adoptions except my foster care license needed to be renewed. So it was either get them in here to do it or officially resign. Pushed to make a choice I took some time to consider and pray and decided to resign.
Ok. I'm processing this still. I'm not enitrely sure how I feel about it. I guess that's to be expected. There are a lot of both good and negative feelings associated with foster care for me. That I guess should be expected too. I am so blessed to have my boys. I'm proud of the work I did when I was working with A, Ty's mom. Whatever my feelings were at the time about not wanting to lose Ty I worked hard for their reunification. On the other hand, I saw a lot of incompetence happening in Jay and Logan's case. I'm not excluding myself. I KNEW they couldn't go home but I do have regrets looking back at the over two years of the case. I never did anything unethical or illegal but I pushed too hard in some places, trusted some of the wrong people, and didn't make myself be heard when I should have. I might post more about that but I need to think about that as it is Jay and Logan's story. There's also a little bit of sadness because it feels over and final now. More on that in a minute. But there's also happiness in being able to lead a more "normal" life now. I don't have to call to ask permission to leave the county, cut the boys' hair, or take the boys to the doctor if needed. We don't have to schedule cw visits. There are no more court hearings. All very good things lol. So like I said before, mixed feelings lol.
Now. Is this resignation as a resource family permanent? I can't answer that right now. I feel like our family is complete now. I'm not sure I could give the boys all the extra support they need because of their issues if I added another child now. However, I WOULD probably be willing to foster Ty's sister should she ever come into care. And another thing...my mom says she doesn't think I'm done. But what she sees is me fostering when I'm older and the boys are grown. I can sure see that as a possibility. Well, only time and God's guidance will tell from here. Looking forward to the future!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Tired
I worked (subbing) yesterday and today. I'm tired. So? This is what you get today. Hey, it's a post, right?
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Permanancy in Foster Care
*My usual disclaimer...please read the title and note that I'm referring totally to foster care adoption here. So no panties in a twist, please.
I've been thinking about this for quite some time. I've read on several blogs of mothers of loss and adoptees that adoption should just be done away with completely. They feel a child who can't be cared for by his/her parents should go to extended family. I don't disagree with this at all in theory. I think that's the best case scenario. However, especially when we are dealing with the reality of TRUE fostercare cases (i.e. abuse or neglect and not youth or poverty), that just often isn't an option. For example, extended family members were looked at in all four of my boys' cases and it just wouldn't have worked out. In fact two of the boys WERE placed with extended family. One of them was "voluntarily" returned to care because the family member "couldn't handle him" and the other was removed due to severe abuse and neglect at the hands of the family member. I'll grant that this is a grossly small sample but still rather telling just the same.
Ok. I don't think there's anyone who can dispute that sometimes family is NOT an option. So what then? I truly believe that children need a sense of belonging, of permanacy. I can't imagine not knowing when you get up in the morning if you'll be going to sleep in the same bed that night. Not to mention what the feeling that no one wants you must do to a person's self-esteem. So I guess that means remaining in care isn't such a great choice. Actually, I think foster care should only be used while reunification is being attempted or until an appropriate permanent situation can be found if reunification fails.
So, next? Maybe permanent legal guardianship? I think that's an option but I'm not sure that's better or worse than legal adoption. In some cases, the kids might need to KNOW that their parents' rights have been terminated and there's no chance they'll be returning to that situation. Jay and Logan did. They were literally in pretty serious danger while with their parents. They are still scared of them, to the point of having nightmares that they come to kill us or take them. Also, some kids might need the unity of having the same last name to get a sense of belonging to their new family. I know I gave all four of my sons the choice and they all CHOSE to change or add my last name to theirs. Two of them kept their names completely the same and just added mine. The other two dropped their original last name entirely. Those same two actually changed more as well...Jay changed his name from Julian to Jay (our family nickname for him) and Cory changed his middle name. They both ASKED to make those changes. I didn't even suggest them in either case. I also know being officially adopted has helped them all to know that they are here with a family that loves and wants them forever. They don't have to wake up tomorrow and wonder where they'll be moved to next. I'm not sure about this last point (if anyone knows please feel free to leave a comment about this) so I may do some research on it and post more about it later. Does the child in a legal guardianship have the same rights that a legally recognized child of that guardian would have? Does that leave a child in that situation without parents or a family when he/she becomes a legal adult? Legal guardianship stops at 18 or 21, right? So who does that leave for a person whose parents' rights were terminated by the court due to abuse/neglect so that the child could have permanancy? Maybe this wouldn't be a big deal to most but I just can't imagine having no legally recognized parents.
I know that there are adoptees who felt that they couldn't be themselves growing up in a family they weren't genetically linked to. My first response to this is...SHAME ON ANY FAMILIES that caused a child to feel that way! I've posted before about "mini-me's" and expecting a child to be like the parents. That's just wrong in ANY family, whether biological or adopted. "Fitting in" should be a matter of being loved for who you are, not changing yourself to be like others just to gain acceptance. However, I think adoptive parents should accept that the losses caused by adoption might lead to these feelings and they should be prepared to help their children through this while they're growing up. Their differences should be accepted, even celebrated, and original families/heritage should be respected.
I'll admit I'm just a mom with a blog. I'm not an expert with all the answers but I just can't see how making my boys a permanent, legal part of my family is a bad thing as long as I don't negate their original families in the process. I know some will say changing their last name does that but like I said it was their choice and for me it was about including them in my family not getting rid of their original family.
I've been thinking about this for quite some time. I've read on several blogs of mothers of loss and adoptees that adoption should just be done away with completely. They feel a child who can't be cared for by his/her parents should go to extended family. I don't disagree with this at all in theory. I think that's the best case scenario. However, especially when we are dealing with the reality of TRUE fostercare cases (i.e. abuse or neglect and not youth or poverty), that just often isn't an option. For example, extended family members were looked at in all four of my boys' cases and it just wouldn't have worked out. In fact two of the boys WERE placed with extended family. One of them was "voluntarily" returned to care because the family member "couldn't handle him" and the other was removed due to severe abuse and neglect at the hands of the family member. I'll grant that this is a grossly small sample but still rather telling just the same.
Ok. I don't think there's anyone who can dispute that sometimes family is NOT an option. So what then? I truly believe that children need a sense of belonging, of permanacy. I can't imagine not knowing when you get up in the morning if you'll be going to sleep in the same bed that night. Not to mention what the feeling that no one wants you must do to a person's self-esteem. So I guess that means remaining in care isn't such a great choice. Actually, I think foster care should only be used while reunification is being attempted or until an appropriate permanent situation can be found if reunification fails.
So, next? Maybe permanent legal guardianship? I think that's an option but I'm not sure that's better or worse than legal adoption. In some cases, the kids might need to KNOW that their parents' rights have been terminated and there's no chance they'll be returning to that situation. Jay and Logan did. They were literally in pretty serious danger while with their parents. They are still scared of them, to the point of having nightmares that they come to kill us or take them. Also, some kids might need the unity of having the same last name to get a sense of belonging to their new family. I know I gave all four of my sons the choice and they all CHOSE to change or add my last name to theirs. Two of them kept their names completely the same and just added mine. The other two dropped their original last name entirely. Those same two actually changed more as well...Jay changed his name from Julian to Jay (our family nickname for him) and Cory changed his middle name. They both ASKED to make those changes. I didn't even suggest them in either case. I also know being officially adopted has helped them all to know that they are here with a family that loves and wants them forever. They don't have to wake up tomorrow and wonder where they'll be moved to next. I'm not sure about this last point (if anyone knows please feel free to leave a comment about this) so I may do some research on it and post more about it later. Does the child in a legal guardianship have the same rights that a legally recognized child of that guardian would have? Does that leave a child in that situation without parents or a family when he/she becomes a legal adult? Legal guardianship stops at 18 or 21, right? So who does that leave for a person whose parents' rights were terminated by the court due to abuse/neglect so that the child could have permanancy? Maybe this wouldn't be a big deal to most but I just can't imagine having no legally recognized parents.
I know that there are adoptees who felt that they couldn't be themselves growing up in a family they weren't genetically linked to. My first response to this is...SHAME ON ANY FAMILIES that caused a child to feel that way! I've posted before about "mini-me's" and expecting a child to be like the parents. That's just wrong in ANY family, whether biological or adopted. "Fitting in" should be a matter of being loved for who you are, not changing yourself to be like others just to gain acceptance. However, I think adoptive parents should accept that the losses caused by adoption might lead to these feelings and they should be prepared to help their children through this while they're growing up. Their differences should be accepted, even celebrated, and original families/heritage should be respected.
I'll admit I'm just a mom with a blog. I'm not an expert with all the answers but I just can't see how making my boys a permanent, legal part of my family is a bad thing as long as I don't negate their original families in the process. I know some will say changing their last name does that but like I said it was their choice and for me it was about including them in my family not getting rid of their original family.
Monday, November 2, 2009
NaBloPoMo Day 2...Not So Exciting Either
Things are pretty settled here right now. I have to say that the finalization on 10/23 has changed some things for the better. It's taken some stress off us because I know that there's no more chance of the boys being placed somewhere else. And on their end the judge made it clear to the boys that they're here for good. I don't know if that'll stick with them in some of their worst moments but I'm fairly certain it planted a bigger seed than me alone saying it would have.
The sports the boys are into (soccer and cross country) are over for the year. Having the two seasons for all 4 kids coincide like that makes for a crazy couple of months. The difference is overwhelming now that they're over. I miss certain parts of it but it's nice to not have somewhere to be every night.
I guess that just leaves us in the school grind as we head into the holidays. Not that anyone cares lol but I'm going to work on some adoption related posts. I think I've got some perking lol.
The sports the boys are into (soccer and cross country) are over for the year. Having the two seasons for all 4 kids coincide like that makes for a crazy couple of months. The difference is overwhelming now that they're over. I miss certain parts of it but it's nice to not have somewhere to be every night.
I guess that just leaves us in the school grind as we head into the holidays. Not that anyone cares lol but I'm going to work on some adoption related posts. I think I've got some perking lol.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
NaBloPoMo
I think I'm going to try to do NaNoBloMo this year. That's it. Post one. Fascinating, huh? I can't promise the posts will get much better LOL but I DO promise to try.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Soccer Pics
Just thought I'd share pics of my handsome soccer players. Too bad I don't have any of Cory like this from Cross Country.
Simple Woman's Daybook for October 19th
This is hosted by Peggy at Peggy's Daybook.
Outside my window...it's dark already but the sun was out earlier and it was actually warm!
I am thinking...about my nice, warm bed.
I am thankful for...hot tubs and saunas lol.
I am wearing...tan slacks and a black shirt.
I am remembering...that I need to call my mom.
I am going...to enjoy a treat if I can find one after the boys go to bed. Bad mommy!
I am reading...I'm actually between books at the moment. Very rare indeed lol. I have to go to the library.
I am hoping...the boys are all better and don't need to miss any school!
I am praying...for the health and finances of my loved ones!
I am hearing...the tv and J talking to Ty about the Animal Planet show they're watching.
On my mind...my friend Stephanie and her boys in Haiti.
From the learning rooms...Ty came home early with a fever. Everyone else is now sick too so school tomorrow? Looking pretty iffy.
Noticing that...my puppy is crazily chasing the cats. Awww, he just wants to play.
Pondering these words..."One man in a thousand will stick more close than a brother...
Nine hundred and ninety-nine can't bide the shame or mocking or laughter,
But the Thousandth Man will stand by your side to the gallows-foot -- and after!" from "The Thousandth Man" by Rudyard Kipling.
From the kitchen...I made a taco bake/mexican lasagna for dinner. YUM!
Around the house...things are settling down after a busy day.
One of my favorite things...hearing one of the boys say, "I love you, mom!"
A few plans for the rest of the week...soccer, school (hopefully), finalizing J and L's adoption!
From my picture journal: "Don't you dare ever show that to anyone mom!!!" OOOOOPS!
(Not sure if you can see it but that's L's Pooh hat he's wearing LOL).
Monday, October 12, 2009
Simple Woman's Daybook for October 12th
This is hosted by Peggy at Peggy's Daybook.
Outside my window...it's dark already and cold.
I am thinking...about my boys.
I am thankful for...recent answered prayers.
I am wearing...green slacks and a green shirt with floral print.
I am remembering...how much I love my family.
I am going... to tuck in Jay as soon as I'm done with this!
I am reading...The Revenge of the Spellman's from the Izzy Spellman series.
I am hoping... to get a permanent teaching position SOON!
On my mind...my sister and her dd.
From the learning rooms...the boys all had little homework tonight. Agendas were quickly signed and put away.
Noticing that...we seem to have nearly skipped fall and gone straight to early winter!
Pondering these words...lol nothing comes to mind right now.
From the kitchen...I made salsbury steaks and baked taters for dinner tonight.
Around the house...it's warm and cozy.
One of my favorite things...the smell of wood smoke and cold air (although it's too early for that).
From my picture journal: Boys will be boys!
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Mean Mommy
I finally did it. I cut Ty's hair. Short. Ty won this battle for ages because I like his hair longer too; I just hate that he doesn't take care of it. So I'd warn him but had trouble following through. Recently, though, I was sorting through pictures and I remembered how much I like it short too. I gave him one last warning, he didn't believe me, and this is the result...
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
S'All Good
Just wanted to say we're all doing good! And I have a bit of news...
DRUM ROLL PLEASE.....
We have a court date for the finalization! On October 23rd J and L will become a part of our family legally and permanently!
DRUM ROLL PLEASE.....
We have a court date for the finalization! On October 23rd J and L will become a part of our family legally and permanently!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!
Ok, so maybe I was just kidding around with the title of the post. Maybe. A little. We did the traditional group shots as well (one "real" shot and one goofy one). I am not impressed with any of the pics this year actually. I love my boys and they are handsome and photogenic when they want to be. But this year? Cory was making funny faces in all of them, Ty's hair needed brushed, J pouted in a lot of them, and L's shirt was wet, which I didn't notice until later. I swear. So leave me alone, ok? He's also NOT wearing his backpack. Which is hysterically ironic because now? Every day since? It goes on directly after his clothes and stays on. It's on before he eats, brushes his teeth, or even puts his shoes on. Sigh. Whatever! LOL.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
For Kathy
This is the story of my foster care journey. It starts a long time ago in a way because I've known since I was little that I wanted to be a mom. When I was 14 I found out that it would be difficult, if not impossible. As I got older thoughts of adoption grew stronger and more frequent. In my early 30s I came to a point where I decided that I didn't want to wait anymore. I might never find the right guy but I knew I was ready to be a mom. I began researching the possibility of adopting. I looked at the all the options and for various reasons decided to pursue older child adoption through the county/state.
I began the homestudy process in the summer of 2003. I checked the website frequently and inquired about several children but months went by and I didn't even get a NEGATIVE response about them. Meanwhile my sister was working with a lady who was fostering a 3 yr old boy that my sister adored. It turned out he needed to be moved and my sister mentioned that maybe I should go into fostering and see if they'd place him with me. Of course that didn't happen because the process is too long. He'd been placed somewhere else before I was certified but it got the ball rolling. I was officially a resource home in October 2003.
FYI~The little boy went back to his parents. They had another baby, a girl. In 2007 they were removed AGAIN and are still in the system. I don't know the current status of their case but I know they aren't going home.
I began the homestudy process in the summer of 2003. I checked the website frequently and inquired about several children but months went by and I didn't even get a NEGATIVE response about them. Meanwhile my sister was working with a lady who was fostering a 3 yr old boy that my sister adored. It turned out he needed to be moved and my sister mentioned that maybe I should go into fostering and see if they'd place him with me. Of course that didn't happen because the process is too long. He'd been placed somewhere else before I was certified but it got the ball rolling. I was officially a resource home in October 2003.
FYI~The little boy went back to his parents. They had another baby, a girl. In 2007 they were removed AGAIN and are still in the system. I don't know the current status of their case but I know they aren't going home.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Updates and Coming Soon
I've been pretty busy so I haven't posted much. Here are some updates for you!
*I've finished my 100th post (100 Things About Me) so check it out. Ya, cuz I told you to!
*The boys have started school and so far so good!
*Soccer and Cross-country seasons have started so we're on the go a lot. Cory is in cross-country and Ty, J, and L are all loving soccer.
*J and L have been transferred to adoptions. The cw stopped by on Tuesday and I signed an adoption agreement so the boys are no longer foster sons...they're pre-adoptive! She'll come 2 more times and we're set. I've been playing phone tag with a lawyer but as soon as I nail that down he'll file an Intent to Adopt and get a court date. It could be as early as late Sept.
Coming Soon!
*First day of school pics!
*Kathy had asked how I got into fostercare...I'll be doing a post on that soon.
*I've finished my 100th post (100 Things About Me) so check it out. Ya, cuz I told you to!
*The boys have started school and so far so good!
*Soccer and Cross-country seasons have started so we're on the go a lot. Cory is in cross-country and Ty, J, and L are all loving soccer.
*J and L have been transferred to adoptions. The cw stopped by on Tuesday and I signed an adoption agreement so the boys are no longer foster sons...they're pre-adoptive! She'll come 2 more times and we're set. I've been playing phone tag with a lawyer but as soon as I nail that down he'll file an Intent to Adopt and get a court date. It could be as early as late Sept.
Coming Soon!
*First day of school pics!
*Kathy had asked how I got into fostercare...I'll be doing a post on that soon.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Friday, July 31, 2009
Can You help?
I've just started reading a blog of an abuse/foster care survivor. She's looking for someone from her past that she'd like to reconnect with. His name is Richard Clay O'Connor but he usually goes by Clay. Here's the link if you think you might know him and want more details.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Simple Woman's Daybook for June 22nd
This is hosted by Peggy at her daybook blog.
FOR TODAY June 22th...
Outside my window...it is a still and quiet summer evening.
I am thinking...it's been a special day.
I am thankful for...the people in my life who are there to comfort and guide me through!
From the kitchen...Cory cooked for us.
I am wearing...shorts and a t-shirt. Seriously...it's summer and I don't dress up. It's going to be either shorts and a t-shirt or pjs lol.
I am creating...my Simple Woman's post lol!
I am going...to read tonight.
I am reading...I'm actually between books at the moment. I'm picking up The Shack as soon as I can from the library.
I am hoping...Cory does well at his first swim meet tomorrow.
I am hearing...Cory laughing at the show he's watching on tv.
Around the house...things are clean but not so neat lol.
One of my favorite things...is having fun with the boys.
A few plans for the rest of the week...watching Cory at his first 2 swim meets, Vacation Bible Schol for L, and going to an amusement park with my cousin and her 3 boys.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...it's a shame that life can't always be as sweet or special as it was today!
Friday, June 19, 2009
100th Post
I'd like to start my 100th post by saying thank you to those who have read and/or commented along the way! This past year has had some rocky moments and posting here and the support I have recieved has definitely helped me through it.
So for something fun I thought I'd do a "100 things about me" post. I'll try to come up with things a lot of you may not know but some of you know me so well that the ones you don't already know will be few and far between. Here's a little catch, though. I don't think I can come up with 100 things on my own. So, if you know something juicy about me just comment and I'll add it to the list! Or if there's something you want to know feel free to ask and I'll include the answer in the list. It might take a bit but I'll get there so keep checking in.
1. I had open-heart surgery at 5 years old.
2. I never learned to ride a bike.
3. I don't like gum of any sort and rarely chew it.
4. I LOVE spiced apple rings and called them purple pickles as a kid.
5. I wanted to be a nurse almost my entire childhood and didn't change my mind until 2.5 years into college with nursing as my major.
6. I have gotten progressively more anti-social as the years go on. If I already know and like you I'm fine. If I'm forced through circumstances to get to know you I will; and I may very well befriend you. I do NOT, however, actively seek out new relationships/friendships anymore lol.
7. My brother, a cousin, and I all share the same birthday.
8. I am a Trekkie.
9. I love almost all thinigs Irish.
10. Two of my best friends are twins. Their birthday is the same as my Grandpa K's. He was also a twin.
11. My favorite dinner (if I absolutely had to narrow it down) would be lasagna.
12. My favorite pizza is Hawaiian (ham and pineapple).
13. My favorite drink is either iced tea or ice water, though I am thoroughly addicted to coffee as well.
14. My sister is responsible for introducing me to said coffee addiction lol.
15. My favorite candy bar is a Score bar closely followed by the Zero bar. However, I never met a chocolate I didn't like lol.
16. I love my name (Rebecca).
17. As I child I didn't always love my name and would have changed it to Danielle Elizabeth (Dani).
18. Nancy is a very prominent name in my life (my mom, 2 paternal aunts, and 2 close friends all share that name).
19. When eating fast food I always eat the french fries first then the burger or sandwich. I get such a kick out of the fact that Tyler has always done this too.
20. I oncestole borrowed without permission the car my parents had bought for my sister and I to share. I got caught because I ran it out of gas. DOH!!!!!!!
21. Photography is fast becoming a favorite hobby of mine.
22. I have been to 5 other countries...Cananda, England, France, Switzerland, and Germany.
23. Of the above countries Switzerland was the most special for me because my paternal Grandmother came to America from there when she was 13. We actually visited her hometown.
24. My first car was a VW Rabbit.
25. For as long as I can remember I have had a recurring dream about tornadoes. I don't know why. I've never even seen one except on tv.
26. I got my first cat as a tiny kitten when I was 28 from my Aunt. He followed me to the car as I was about to leave her house. He climbed into the car and up on me. I thought he'd get scared and leave when I started the car but he didn't. He ended up coming home with me. For 7 years he was in my lap or under my feet when I was home. He was sickly and passed away at 7 before I could get him to the vet. Abby was Ty's cat at his mom's house. He got her as a kitten for a Christmas present 2 months before he came to live with me. She let him have her about 6 months into care. Noah and Sparky were my Aunt's cats too but she needed to find a home for them.
27. I prefer showers to baths but I do LOVE me some hot tubbing!
28. My favorite breakfast is pancakes and sausage.
29. Yes, Kathy, I AM a pillow flipper to keep to the cool side. I also almost never sleep with my feet under the covers. My feet "need to breathe" LOL.
30. I HATE flannel sheets because they get too rough. I need smooth, cool sheets.
31. The walls of my bedroom are wood planks with a light finish on them. The decor is blue, green, and yellow.
32. My favorite cereal is Special K Red Berry or Blueberry.
33. My favorite boughten cookies are Double Stuffed Oreoes.
34. My favorite homemade cookies are monster cookies.
35. My favorite book series of all time is probably still Harry Potter.
36. I have horrible feet so I never paint my toes and I show them in public as little as possible.
37. I have never owned a bird.
38. I don't like gardening very much. It seems overwhelming to me.
39. My best birthday would be any of the ones since I've had my boys! Hard as I tried I couldn't think of one more special than when I celebrate with them. I did really like my 4th grade sleep over, though!
40. I think clowns can be hysterical if they're good.
41. I go barefoot at home as much as possible year round. I wear slip on loafers or sneaks otherwise (unless I'm working).
42. My favorite kind of apple is probably a golden delicious.
43. My favorite kind of cheese is Muenster.
43. I usually curl up in my oversized EZ chair to watch tv (and drink my coffee in the am).
44. Hands down my favorite crackers are Keebler townhouse crackers.
45. I think most people are crackers lol.
46. I have one purse...leather in basic brown.
47. I like solid brown horses with dark manes and tales.
48. I don't wear watches because for some reason they don't work on me. My mom has the same problem.
49. I don't remember learning to tie my shoes or read so I must've been fairly young with both.
50. I LOVE cakey chocolate brownies with peanut butter frosting. YUM!
51. Pepsodent is/was my favorite toothpaste but since I can't find it much if at all anymore I usually use Crest (any of the flavors).
52. I had a Hollie Hobby lunchbox as a child.
53. I rode bus 30 my entire school "career."
54. I am indeed super smart but sadly my uber intelligence was not recognized by my teachers and I was unable to skip any grades. LOL LOL LOL.
55. My favorite kind of shoe is an easy to slip on loafer-type.
56. My favorite mac and cheese is my homemade mac and cheese with ham.
57. I LOVE to read and have so many favorites that I don't think I could narrow it down to one favorite book. A cop out maybe but true non the less. Lol.
58. Beaches, ET, and Dirty Dancing are among my favorite movies. As are the Harry Potter movies.
59. I am TOTALLY a curl up with a good book kind of gal (versus going out) the vast majority of the time.
60. I use mayo on my sandwiches, not mustard.
61. I LOVE dogs. I have always been a dog person. I'm just a cat person, too. If I HAD to pick it'd be dogs. (But shhh...don't tell the cats!)
62. I currently rent our home but I'd love to find one to buy.
63. My dream family vacation would be to take the boys to the ocean and Disney.
64. I'd love to go to Ireland and Scotland for myself.
65. I love my Subaru Forrester but would like a minivan or a Tribeca with a 3rd row of seats for more room. I'm not sure if I have an actual dream car.
66. My worst haircut would've likely been the spiral perm I had back in the late 80s. LOL.
67. I am right handed.
68. I use to be very organized and on time for everything. Now? Not so much.
69. I used to be obsessively neat. So much so that if my brother and sister were mad at me they'd get back at me simply by going into my room and moving my stuff by mere inches. I'm outgrowing that more and more as well lol.
70. I had a lot of ear infections as a child and am now hearing impaired. I even have hearing aids.
71. I don't like Italian dressing because I got sick after eating it when I was young. Oddly...I DO like Ceasar dressing.
72. Some of my favorite tv shows growing up were: MASH, Battlestar Galactica, the A Team, and Knight Rider. Quantum Leap was a fav too but when I was older. My dad and I used to watch that together.
73. We had dogs growing up...mainly German Sheperds. There was Ringo, the terror of S Hill (road I grew up on in the country...he was known for miles.) In fact about 2 weeks ago I ran into a man who had grown up on the Hill with us and he mentioned him, said he never forgot that dog lol. Then there was Ranger. He looked a lot like Ringo and came not too long after so some people were afraid of him for a while. He'd have done anything for anybody for a little peanut butter, though. Hoover was a GS too, a sweet little thing we had from a puppy. We had him and Ranger at the same time for several years and he wrapped Ranger around. Kirby was the only one who wasn't a GS. He just died 2 years or so ago. He was my mom's "grumpy old man" lol.
74. Beverly Hills Cop was the first rated R movie I was allowed to see.
75. I had my first kiss at 16 years old.
76. I'd rather be cold than hot.
77. Fall is my favorite season.
78. I used to have a "heavy foot" while driving but I don't speed any more.
79. I've only been in one accident that was my fault. I was going too fast on slippery roads and hit a bank. I totalled the car I'd had for less than 2 weeks.
80. My dad is a truck driver and we (my brother, sister, and I) got to ride with him sometimes.
81. I've been in a prop plane that seated 4 people. My dad took my brother and I up once (with a pilot). I LOVED it.
82. I'd love to ride in a helicopter.
83. I'd love to go sky diving but worry about my knees with the landing.
84. I'd love to go SCUBA diving but worry about my ears when resurfacing.
85. Are you getting the impression that I'm a worrier? Hmmm. Does this count even though it's a question? LOL
86. I also want to go white water rafting. I'm not really worried about this one lol.
87. I like to be on the water, though I don't get a chance to go boating much.
88. What I'd most like to change about my parenting is: I'd like to have a bit more patience, be able to take things less personally in the heat of the moment, and yell less.
89. I like a variety of different music but my tastes run predominantly to country and soft/pop rock.
90. I love to cook and am fairly good at it but like most of the women in my family (and at least 2 good friends) I don't cook by following recipes exactly.
91. I am EXTREMEMLY self-concious about my appearance. I think this plays a big part in my being anti-social as well. I'm very short, most of you know this (about 4'7"). That does not bother me, though I know I get noticed because of it. It's mainly my weight and facial features that I don't like.
92. I am, however, quite confident in my abilities. I know what I'm good at. I THINK this pride/confidence is at a healthy level...strong but not to the point of vanity.
93. I am very sensitive to artifical smells. Cologne, perfume, and air freshners can all affect me (headache, upset stomach). I never wear perfume and though Ty and Cory wear cologne I have yet to find one I can more than tolerate. Fruit scents are better for me than flowery.
94. If I could be remembered for one thing it'd be for being a great mom. (Most of you aren't surprized by that I bet.)
95. I am extremely honest, often to my own detriment.
96. I used to lift weights and was good at it. My brother, a certified personal trainer, said I had great form and I got to the point where I could bench press 120 lbs. as an example.
97. I am completely phobic about bees, wasps, and hornets. I think I was in my 30s before I was ever able to bring myself to kill one all by myself.
98. I wish I was musical. I'd especially love to be able to sing. I can play a few songs on a piano but that's about it. I DID play oboe and bells but was never very good and have forgetten the little I did know lol.
99. My favorite flowers are lilacs and bleeding hearts. I don't like cutting flowers and having to display inside but if I was going to calla lillies and roses would be my favs for that.
100. My favorite ocean animal would be a dolphin. (Thanks, D, for the suggestions for 99 and 100!)
So for something fun I thought I'd do a "100 things about me" post. I'll try to come up with things a lot of you may not know but some of you know me so well that the ones you don't already know will be few and far between. Here's a little catch, though. I don't think I can come up with 100 things on my own. So, if you know something juicy about me just comment and I'll add it to the list! Or if there's something you want to know feel free to ask and I'll include the answer in the list. It might take a bit but I'll get there so keep checking in.
1. I had open-heart surgery at 5 years old.
2. I never learned to ride a bike.
3. I don't like gum of any sort and rarely chew it.
4. I LOVE spiced apple rings and called them purple pickles as a kid.
5. I wanted to be a nurse almost my entire childhood and didn't change my mind until 2.5 years into college with nursing as my major.
6. I have gotten progressively more anti-social as the years go on. If I already know and like you I'm fine. If I'm forced through circumstances to get to know you I will; and I may very well befriend you. I do NOT, however, actively seek out new relationships/friendships anymore lol.
7. My brother, a cousin, and I all share the same birthday.
8. I am a Trekkie.
9. I love almost all thinigs Irish.
10. Two of my best friends are twins. Their birthday is the same as my Grandpa K's. He was also a twin.
11. My favorite dinner (if I absolutely had to narrow it down) would be lasagna.
12. My favorite pizza is Hawaiian (ham and pineapple).
13. My favorite drink is either iced tea or ice water, though I am thoroughly addicted to coffee as well.
14. My sister is responsible for introducing me to said coffee addiction lol.
15. My favorite candy bar is a Score bar closely followed by the Zero bar. However, I never met a chocolate I didn't like lol.
16. I love my name (Rebecca).
17. As I child I didn't always love my name and would have changed it to Danielle Elizabeth (Dani).
18. Nancy is a very prominent name in my life (my mom, 2 paternal aunts, and 2 close friends all share that name).
19. When eating fast food I always eat the french fries first then the burger or sandwich. I get such a kick out of the fact that Tyler has always done this too.
20. I once
21. Photography is fast becoming a favorite hobby of mine.
22. I have been to 5 other countries...Cananda, England, France, Switzerland, and Germany.
23. Of the above countries Switzerland was the most special for me because my paternal Grandmother came to America from there when she was 13. We actually visited her hometown.
24. My first car was a VW Rabbit.
25. For as long as I can remember I have had a recurring dream about tornadoes. I don't know why. I've never even seen one except on tv.
26. I got my first cat as a tiny kitten when I was 28 from my Aunt. He followed me to the car as I was about to leave her house. He climbed into the car and up on me. I thought he'd get scared and leave when I started the car but he didn't. He ended up coming home with me. For 7 years he was in my lap or under my feet when I was home. He was sickly and passed away at 7 before I could get him to the vet. Abby was Ty's cat at his mom's house. He got her as a kitten for a Christmas present 2 months before he came to live with me. She let him have her about 6 months into care. Noah and Sparky were my Aunt's cats too but she needed to find a home for them.
27. I prefer showers to baths but I do LOVE me some hot tubbing!
28. My favorite breakfast is pancakes and sausage.
29. Yes, Kathy, I AM a pillow flipper to keep to the cool side. I also almost never sleep with my feet under the covers. My feet "need to breathe" LOL.
30. I HATE flannel sheets because they get too rough. I need smooth, cool sheets.
31. The walls of my bedroom are wood planks with a light finish on them. The decor is blue, green, and yellow.
32. My favorite cereal is Special K Red Berry or Blueberry.
33. My favorite boughten cookies are Double Stuffed Oreoes.
34. My favorite homemade cookies are monster cookies.
35. My favorite book series of all time is probably still Harry Potter.
36. I have horrible feet so I never paint my toes and I show them in public as little as possible.
37. I have never owned a bird.
38. I don't like gardening very much. It seems overwhelming to me.
39. My best birthday would be any of the ones since I've had my boys! Hard as I tried I couldn't think of one more special than when I celebrate with them. I did really like my 4th grade sleep over, though!
40. I think clowns can be hysterical if they're good.
41. I go barefoot at home as much as possible year round. I wear slip on loafers or sneaks otherwise (unless I'm working).
42. My favorite kind of apple is probably a golden delicious.
43. My favorite kind of cheese is Muenster.
43. I usually curl up in my oversized EZ chair to watch tv (and drink my coffee in the am).
44. Hands down my favorite crackers are Keebler townhouse crackers.
45. I think most people are crackers lol.
46. I have one purse...leather in basic brown.
47. I like solid brown horses with dark manes and tales.
48. I don't wear watches because for some reason they don't work on me. My mom has the same problem.
49. I don't remember learning to tie my shoes or read so I must've been fairly young with both.
50. I LOVE cakey chocolate brownies with peanut butter frosting. YUM!
51. Pepsodent is/was my favorite toothpaste but since I can't find it much if at all anymore I usually use Crest (any of the flavors).
52. I had a Hollie Hobby lunchbox as a child.
53. I rode bus 30 my entire school "career."
54. I am indeed super smart but sadly my uber intelligence was not recognized by my teachers and I was unable to skip any grades. LOL LOL LOL.
55. My favorite kind of shoe is an easy to slip on loafer-type.
56. My favorite mac and cheese is my homemade mac and cheese with ham.
57. I LOVE to read and have so many favorites that I don't think I could narrow it down to one favorite book. A cop out maybe but true non the less. Lol.
58. Beaches, ET, and Dirty Dancing are among my favorite movies. As are the Harry Potter movies.
59. I am TOTALLY a curl up with a good book kind of gal (versus going out) the vast majority of the time.
60. I use mayo on my sandwiches, not mustard.
61. I LOVE dogs. I have always been a dog person. I'm just a cat person, too. If I HAD to pick it'd be dogs. (But shhh...don't tell the cats!)
62. I currently rent our home but I'd love to find one to buy.
63. My dream family vacation would be to take the boys to the ocean and Disney.
64. I'd love to go to Ireland and Scotland for myself.
65. I love my Subaru Forrester but would like a minivan or a Tribeca with a 3rd row of seats for more room. I'm not sure if I have an actual dream car.
66. My worst haircut would've likely been the spiral perm I had back in the late 80s. LOL.
67. I am right handed.
68. I use to be very organized and on time for everything. Now? Not so much.
69. I used to be obsessively neat. So much so that if my brother and sister were mad at me they'd get back at me simply by going into my room and moving my stuff by mere inches. I'm outgrowing that more and more as well lol.
70. I had a lot of ear infections as a child and am now hearing impaired. I even have hearing aids.
71. I don't like Italian dressing because I got sick after eating it when I was young. Oddly...I DO like Ceasar dressing.
72. Some of my favorite tv shows growing up were: MASH, Battlestar Galactica, the A Team, and Knight Rider. Quantum Leap was a fav too but when I was older. My dad and I used to watch that together.
73. We had dogs growing up...mainly German Sheperds. There was Ringo, the terror of S Hill (road I grew up on in the country...he was known for miles.) In fact about 2 weeks ago I ran into a man who had grown up on the Hill with us and he mentioned him, said he never forgot that dog lol. Then there was Ranger. He looked a lot like Ringo and came not too long after so some people were afraid of him for a while. He'd have done anything for anybody for a little peanut butter, though. Hoover was a GS too, a sweet little thing we had from a puppy. We had him and Ranger at the same time for several years and he wrapped Ranger around. Kirby was the only one who wasn't a GS. He just died 2 years or so ago. He was my mom's "grumpy old man" lol.
74. Beverly Hills Cop was the first rated R movie I was allowed to see.
75. I had my first kiss at 16 years old.
76. I'd rather be cold than hot.
77. Fall is my favorite season.
78. I used to have a "heavy foot" while driving but I don't speed any more.
79. I've only been in one accident that was my fault. I was going too fast on slippery roads and hit a bank. I totalled the car I'd had for less than 2 weeks.
80. My dad is a truck driver and we (my brother, sister, and I) got to ride with him sometimes.
81. I've been in a prop plane that seated 4 people. My dad took my brother and I up once (with a pilot). I LOVED it.
82. I'd love to ride in a helicopter.
83. I'd love to go sky diving but worry about my knees with the landing.
84. I'd love to go SCUBA diving but worry about my ears when resurfacing.
85. Are you getting the impression that I'm a worrier? Hmmm. Does this count even though it's a question? LOL
86. I also want to go white water rafting. I'm not really worried about this one lol.
87. I like to be on the water, though I don't get a chance to go boating much.
88. What I'd most like to change about my parenting is: I'd like to have a bit more patience, be able to take things less personally in the heat of the moment, and yell less.
89. I like a variety of different music but my tastes run predominantly to country and soft/pop rock.
90. I love to cook and am fairly good at it but like most of the women in my family (and at least 2 good friends) I don't cook by following recipes exactly.
91. I am EXTREMEMLY self-concious about my appearance. I think this plays a big part in my being anti-social as well. I'm very short, most of you know this (about 4'7"). That does not bother me, though I know I get noticed because of it. It's mainly my weight and facial features that I don't like.
92. I am, however, quite confident in my abilities. I know what I'm good at. I THINK this pride/confidence is at a healthy level...strong but not to the point of vanity.
93. I am very sensitive to artifical smells. Cologne, perfume, and air freshners can all affect me (headache, upset stomach). I never wear perfume and though Ty and Cory wear cologne I have yet to find one I can more than tolerate. Fruit scents are better for me than flowery.
94. If I could be remembered for one thing it'd be for being a great mom. (Most of you aren't surprized by that I bet.)
95. I am extremely honest, often to my own detriment.
96. I used to lift weights and was good at it. My brother, a certified personal trainer, said I had great form and I got to the point where I could bench press 120 lbs. as an example.
97. I am completely phobic about bees, wasps, and hornets. I think I was in my 30s before I was ever able to bring myself to kill one all by myself.
98. I wish I was musical. I'd especially love to be able to sing. I can play a few songs on a piano but that's about it. I DID play oboe and bells but was never very good and have forgetten the little I did know lol.
99. My favorite flowers are lilacs and bleeding hearts. I don't like cutting flowers and having to display inside but if I was going to calla lillies and roses would be my favs for that.
100. My favorite ocean animal would be a dolphin. (Thanks, D, for the suggestions for 99 and 100!)
Monday, June 15, 2009
Simple Woman's Daybook for June 15th
This is hosted by Peggy at her daybook blog.
FOR TODAY June 15th...
Outside my window...dusk is falling. There's a cool breeze and it smells like summer, even if it doesn't FEEL like summer.
I am thinking...that summer is flying by even though we've done nothing special.
I am thankful for...having enough of everything we need!
From the kitchen...we had hot dogs on the grill and some amazing pasta salad.
I am wearing...shorts and a t-shirt. Seriously...it's summer and I don't dress up. It's going to be either shorts and a t-shirt or pjs lol.
I am creating...happy summer memories for my boys. I hope, anyway!
I am going...to tuck J in soon.
I am reading...T is for .
I am hoping...the boys sleep well tonight.
I am hearing...J complain that it's his bedtime.
Around the house...things are as good as they're going to get tonight lol. Well, I'll probably run the dishwasher later lol.
One of my favorite things...is the peace and beauty of early morning, though I am not a morning person so I have to be forced to enjoy it.
A few plans for the rest of the week...swimming if weather allows, getting the boys where they need to be, and some spontaneous fun (hopefully).
Here is picture thought I am sharing...My boys are soooo handsome lol.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Simple Woman's Daybook for June 8th
This is hosted by Peggy at her daybook blog.
FOR TODAY June 8th...
Outside my window...it's raining but we have yet to see the thunderstorm we were forecasted to get.
I am thinking...about our plans and schedule for this summer.
I am thankful for...my friends.
From the kitchen...I had a great time making dinner and talking with Cory.
I am wearing...summer pjs.
I am creating...a busy but hopefully fun summer for the boys and me.
I am going....to sleep in if I get a chance. (Lol, yeah right!)
I am reading...nothing at the moment.
I am hoping...to get a full-time teaching position.
I am hearing...Cory talking on the phone.
Around the house....it's been a nice day with pleasant kids!
One of my favorite things...a good meal!
A few plans for the rest of the week...swimming, getting the boys where they need to go, and having some good ol' summer fun!
Here is a picture thought I am sharing...this is what love look likes lol. (Cory with his gf's autograph on his arm after the last day of school.)
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Firsts
Last Friday was a night of several firsts for my big boys. There was a school dance. It was Cory's first dance with a "date." He asked his newest girlfriend to go. It was Ty's first as fifth graders are only allowed to go to the last one of the year AND his first with a girl.
The third and final first of the night also belongs to Ty and isn't such a sweet or happy milestone. Yep, that's right! My baby got in a fight OVER A GIRL! He and the other boy didn't get caught so it must have been quick and relatively minor, but I'm still less than proud. I'm telling you...it's the monastary for that boy! Apparently what happened is that his girlfriend was too nervous to dance so he danced with another girl and THAT girl's boyfriend was a little upset by that. Hmmm, ya think?
Wondering how I found out since they didn't get caught and in trouble? That's the joy of small town living. Some girl Ty's age lives near my mom and dad and chats them up when they walk their dog. She must know they're Ty's grandparents and told my dad. My dad told my sister and she told me. Nice, huh?
The third and final first of the night also belongs to Ty and isn't such a sweet or happy milestone. Yep, that's right! My baby got in a fight OVER A GIRL! He and the other boy didn't get caught so it must have been quick and relatively minor, but I'm still less than proud. I'm telling you...it's the monastary for that boy! Apparently what happened is that his girlfriend was too nervous to dance so he danced with another girl and THAT girl's boyfriend was a little upset by that. Hmmm, ya think?
Wondering how I found out since they didn't get caught and in trouble? That's the joy of small town living. Some girl Ty's age lives near my mom and dad and chats them up when they walk their dog. She must know they're Ty's grandparents and told my dad. My dad told my sister and she told me. Nice, huh?
Monday, May 25, 2009
Simple Woman's Daybook for May 25th
This is hosted by Peggy at her daybook blog.
FOR TODAY May 18th...
Outside my window...is a gorgeous breeze, the smell of fresh cut grass, and the hum of the lawn mower as Cory cuts the grass.
I am thinking...how blessed I am to live in America.
I am thankful for...boys who behave, even if the younger two are bored, at a solemn Memorial Day ceremony.
From the kitchen...I didn't cook much today but I did make a GREAT tossed salad with everything but the kitchen sink in it lol.
I am wearing...khaki shorts and a black tank shirt.
I am creating...a summer-fied home lol. (I opened windows, put in the ac's (thanks for your help, Cory!), and cleaned my grill.
I am going....to watch the season premiere of Jon and Kate Plus 8 tonight.
I am reading...Firefly Lane.
I am hoping...the weather stays cool and pleasant.
I am hearing...the drone of the lawn mower.
Around the house....it's been a nice day with pleasant kids!
One of my favorite things...a good book!
A few plans for the rest of the week...clean, prepare to have the boys home for summer, and enjoy L!
Here is picture thought I am sharing...Do they look alike or what???
Memorial Day
To all who gave their lives in defense of our country, our freedom...from the bottom of my heart THANK YOU!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Simple Woman's Daybook for May 18th
This is hosted by Peggy at her daybook blog.
FOR TODAY May 18th...
Outside my window...night is falling.
I am thinking...about an early bedtime tonight.
I am thankful for...unexpected time spent with my sister tonight. She stopped by at just the right time to eat dinner with us.
From the kitchen...I need to clean up still but dinner was fun and delicious tonight (squash casserole and cherry crisp with vanilla ice cream).
I am wearing...shorts and a green t-shirt.
I am creating...a Simple Woman's daybook post lol.
I am going....to enjoy tomorrow with L.
I am reading...(or at least I will be) reading Firefly Lane as soon as I can get it.
I am hoping...my headache goes away, I get a good night's sleep, and tomorrow is a good day.
I am hearing...a car on the street outside.
Around the house....it's pretty quiet. The boys are all in bed (Cory just now went upstairs).
One of my favorite things...sitting on my porch enjoying a cool breeze.
A few plans for the rest of the week...meeting up with a friend at the park, swimming, and Ty's field trip.
Here is picture thought I am sharing...the boss lady looks none too happy, huh?
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