Mom to My AngelBabies

All Done

2011-11-30T21:46:00.002-05:00

Tonight is the last night of NaBloPoMo, as I'm sure you all know. I barely made it through. I seriously do want to start blogging more. The inspiration is what seems lacking. Anyway, it's over (even if I did cheat a day or too lol.)

I hope to see you soon!

Don't Bother

2011-11-29T21:21:00.001-05:00

No need to read this post. I am stumped for something to say. I'm sleepy, it's been a long day, and I'm just sort of done. BUT I couldn't let it go. I just couldn't lol. One. More. Day.

Simple Woman's Daybook for 11/28/11

2011-11-28T20:33:00.006-05:00

Find it here.

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...it’s dark and cold.

I am thinking...about bedtime.

I am thankful...for a pleasant day with 7 kids!

From the learning rooms...school is still off til Wednesday.

In the kitchen...we had ravioli and tossed salad! Yum!

I am wearing...pjs.

I am creating...a plan for Christmas.

I am going...to bed in just a few minutes!

I am wondering...what time I'll be getting up tomorrow.

I am reading...actually, I'm between books at the moment.

I am hoping...to start and finish Christmas shopping soon.

I am looking forward to...Christmas.

I am hearing...Jay and Britt getting ready for bed and being silly.

Around the house...I'm not doing anything else and you can't make me!

I am pondering...how to answer this question. I'm not in a philosophical place right now lol.

One of my favorite things...quiet time in my room.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Errands and the usual.

A picture thought:

Some Odds and Ends

2011-11-27T20:49:00.002-05:00

*The Eagles lost. BOO!

*I could use some prayers for some upcoming opportunities.

*I've had a lovely holiday with the boys. We still have two more days but I'll be sad to see it end.

*I am stuffed. We had homemade pizza and ice cream cookie sammies (also homemade)for dinner.

*I can't believe NaNoBloPoMo is almost over!

*My car needs inspected. Thank you God for my dad, who's going to take care of that for me.

*I'm off to watch the Steelers game!

Calling All Chefs

2011-11-26T20:29:00.000-05:00

I've mentioned before that I am a good cook. I'm pretty sure, if I was honest lol, that I've mentioned I tend to be timid in the kitchen. Cooking new dishes can overwhelm me until I get the hang of it. So here's my dilema. I bravely got spareribs, which I've never made, and am ready to try something new. Here's were you come in! I want to hear your recipes! Please, help me out!

Get Ready, Get Set...

2011-11-25T21:43:00.005-05:00

UGH. Here we go....the Christmas rush is on. I LOVE Christmas, I really do. I just hate the pressure that comes with it. I want to try to get Christmas shopping and wrapping down ASAP because then? I can enjoy the boys and the season. Well, the countdown begins. Wish me luck!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T19:35:00.001-05:00

We had a great time with lots of family. I hope everyone had as blessed a day as we did!

Music

2011-11-23T16:02:00.003-05:00

Today's prompt is to write about a song (the prompt called it a piece of music)that changed your life. It mentions writng about how it makes you feel now.

I've certainly had life changing moments. There have been people who've changed my life. I've read books that changed my life. But a song? Don't get me wrong. I LOVE music. It's just that I guess I've always thought of it as a way of expressing or emphasizing the way I was feeling at any given moment. So while I wouldn't say a song has changed my life, there are songs I associate with the things I've lived through. Perhaps my favorite is "Angel Lullaby" by Richard Marx. It touched my heart from the first time I heard it because it said so perfectly how I felt about being a parent. I loved it so much I used it in a montage of the boys. (Please note: I've posted this before but I thought I'd put it here again since I'm talking about it.) I've watched that video so many times I can see it perfectly in my mind just listening to the song. Whether I watch the video or just hear the song now, it always makes me cry, especially the lines "I'll never catch all those memories I'm chasing, never be ready to let go."

"Angel's Lullaby" lyrics:
I was never alive
til the day I was blessed by you
When I hold you late at night
I know what I was put here to do

I turn off the world
and listen to you sigh
and I will sing my angel's lullaby

The one forever near
The one you call always call
Right now all you know to fear
are the shadows on your wall

And I'm here close enough
to kiss the tears you cry
And I will sing my angel's lullaby

So tell me how to stop the years from racing?
Is there a secret someone knows?
I'll never catch all those memories I'm chasing
Never be ready to let go

And when the world seems cold
You feel all of your strength is gone
There may be one tiny voice
Your reason to carry on

And when I'm not close enough
to kiss the tears you cry
You will sing your angel's lullaby
Let this be our angel's lullaby

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

More Jokes

2011-11-22T19:56:00.003-05:00

Tonight's post is again brought to you by Cory and there's one from Ty too this time!

Cory: Yo mama's so stupid she threw a rock at the ground and missed.

A blonde girl decides to do a puzzle so she grabs the puzzle and pours out all the peices and tries to put it together. After a while of trying she gets frustrated and calls her boyfriend. Her boyfriend asks, "Honey, whats wrong?" She says, "I'm trying to put this puzzle together but I can't do it." Her boyfriend asks what the picture on the front of the box looks like. The blonde says, "Well, the background is blue and there is a tiger on it." Her boyfriend sighs and says, "Honey, put the cornflakes back in the box."

Ty: Yo mama is so fat that when she wears her raincoat, everyone yells "Taxi!"

Simple Woman's Daybook for 11/22/11

2011-11-21T19:50:00.005-05:00

Find it here.

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...it’s dark and cold.

I am thinking...about Thanksgiving.

I am thankful...for opportunities that come my way.

From the learning rooms...The boys did their homework lol.

In the kitchen...we had burgers! Yum!

I am wearing...pants and a shirt.

I am creating...nothing. I'm not that crafty and I HATE thinking of answers to this question LOL.

I am going...to have a busy day tomorrow!

I am wondering...what's in the near future.

I am reading...a mystery series with a caterer as the main character.

I am hoping...to start and finish Christmas shopping soon.

I am looking forward to...Thanksgiving.

I am hearing...silence. The 3 older boys are upstairs and Logan is VERY quietly watching tv.

Around the house...I'm not doing anything else and you can't make me!

I am pondering...how to answer this question. I'm not in a philosophical place right now lol.

One of my favorite things...ice water.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Errands and stuff tomorrow, babysitting Wednesday, and Thanksgiving Thursday! Woot!

A picture thought:

Sunday Stealing

2011-11-20T19:42:00.002-05:00

Sunday Stealing

I stole this meme from Camille's blog, who stole it from a blog, and so on lol. The entire premise is to steal memes/prompts/ideas from other blogs. That's so fantastic. The tag they signed off with was:

"Cheers to us thieves!"

1. Have you ever licked the back of a CD to try to get it to work? No. There's no proof and I'm sticking to that. LOL

2. What’s the largest age difference between yourself and someone you’ve dated? 15 years and it was the most serious bf I ever had.

3. Ever been in a car wreck? Yes

4. Have you ever been on a blind date? Yes...2 of them

5. Are looks important? To a point, yes. But only because society seems to tell us they are. My opinion is the most gorgeous person will be ugly to you if you don't like them and the homliest will be attractive to you if you like who they are.

6. Do you have any friends that you’ve known for 10 years or more? Yes.

7. By what age would you like to be married? I'm 40 and not married. At this point, it's probably not gonna happen.

8. Have you ever made a mistake? ME? Never! LOL...come on. This is kind of a stupid question.

9. Are you a good tipper? Very. As long as you’re a good waiter/waitress.

10. What’s the most you have spent for a haircut? About $20

11. Have you ever had a crush on a teacher? Yes but not one of MINE lol.

12. Have you ever peed in public? No

13. What song do you want played at your funeral? Whatever makes anyone left behind feel better.

14. Would you tell your parents if you were gay? Yes

15. What would your last meal be before getting executed? Lasagna I think but how do you really pick?

16. Beatles or Stones? Beatles

17. If you had to pick one person on earth to die, who would it be? I can only think of one person and (s)he will remain nameless. I bet those of you who know me could guess, though.

18. Beer, wine or hard liquor? Wine. Rarely. As in a glass every few years rarely.

20. Do you have any phobias? Bees. And being restrained or unable to move.

21. Do you ever walk around the house naked? Yes

22. If you were an animal what would you be? Why? I guess a dog as it seems to fit a lot about my personality.

23. If suffering an injury, would you rather be left blind or deaf? Let me think a minute....um deaf because I already am!

24. Do you have any special talents? Meh

25. What do you do as soon as you walk in the house? Check my voice mail and computer.

26. Do you like horror or comedy? Both.

27. Are you missing anyone? Yes. Very much.

28. Where do you want to live when you are old? Right here I think.

29. Who is the person you can count on the most? Me.

30. What did you dream last night? I don’t remember any dreams from last night.

31. What is your favorite sport to watch? Football

32. Are you named after anyone? No.

33. What is your favorite alcoholic drink? Wine

34. Non alcoholic drink? Water or iced tea

35. Have you ever been in love? Yes

36. Do you sing in the shower? Yes.

37. What is your favorite Holiday? Christmas

38. Would you ever get plastic surgery? Yes

39. Have you ever caught a fish? Yes.

40. When was the last time you felt like crying? Last Wednesday.

41. Can you cook? Yes, yes I can.

I saw IT

2011-11-19T19:38:00.003-05:00

I saw "Breaking Dawn: Part 1." I took Brittanie to it, actually. I'm not going to go into details because most people either love it and want to see it or hate it and don't want to hear about it. I loved it. It was exciting, close enough to the book, and ended in THE perfect way. I'm so excited for Part 2!

Joy

2011-11-18T18:49:00.003-05:00

Today's prompt asks for the happiest moment of your life. Oh my smurf! How do you quantify that and pick only one moment?

I think most mothers would probably pick the birth(s) of their child(ren). Similarly, many people might expect that the days that the boys' adoptions were finalized might be mine. I can't say that, though. I was happy, most certainly. I wanted to be their mother so very much. But the joy of that day was tempered because while I gained that day, they lost. And no matter what the situations were, four sets of parents lost. Add to that that the finalizations were, because of the situations in foster care, the end of several years of stress for everyone. I guess it felt more like relief mixed with happiness.

Looking back, I just wouldn't pick one happiest moment. The happiest momentS for me? Are those silly, peaceful, loving moments with the boys that can happen at any time and are too numerous to count.

Cheating? Me?

2011-11-17T18:45:00.000-05:00

Ha....I don't think I need to say anything more about that.

Growing Up

2011-11-16T18:19:00.004-05:00

Today's prompt: What is the moment you leave childhood and enter adulthood?

I think this is a hard question because obviously we mature in steps, not in the course of one moment or event. The ways in which we react to these events are what prove if we are children or adults. Even if you WERE going to narrow it down to a single moment, how would you do that? Not everyone experiences the same events at the same time in their lives. Duh. A sixteen year old girl whose parents have died might become an adult in the course of dealing with that event. Does that mean that someone who is 40 and whose parents are still living is NOT an adult? Of course not. And what about graduating, getting married, having children? See the difficulty there?

Finally...I'd just like to say that I am a 40 year old mom to 4 kids and there are days I'm not sure I'm an adult yet! I still have my share of "Holy crow! I'm the mom!" moments lol.

My Favorite Place

2011-11-15T16:39:00.003-05:00

Today's NaNoBloMo prompt is:

Describe a favorite place, Focus on how that place afects your sense of taste, touch, sight, sound, or smell.

Over the past summer, I realized that one of my favorite places was the lake. I took the boys fishing but mostly? I'd just sit and relax. The air is fresh and cooler there. The breeze bears the smell of the water. I can't describe that smell, but anyone who's experienced it knows what I mean. There's something so peaceful about it that even the boys were quieter and got along better there. Well, usually. I think it's the visual beauty surrounding us there combined with the quiet sounds of waves lapping at the shore and birds as they fly overhead. It all comes together to make it a favorite place of mine.

Simple Woman's daybook For 11/14/11

2011-11-14T16:05:00.001-05:00

Find it here.

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...it’s dark and dreary.

I am thinking...about tomorrow night.

I am thankful...for my friends.

From the learning rooms...It's hard to get the boys to do their homeowrk with extra kiddos here. Imagine that!

In the kitchen...we're having a casserole!

I am wearing...jeans and a tee.

I am creating...some organization out of this chaos.

I am going...to bed early tonight!

I am wondering...when I'll have some answers.

I am reading...a mystery series with a caterer as the main character.

I am hoping...to start and finish Christmas shopping soon.

I am looking forward to...Wednesday night.

I am hearing...kids loudly playing.

Around the house...there are lots of toys out.

I am pondering...how to answer this question. I'm not in a philosophical place right now lol.

One of my favorite things...chocolate!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Errands and stuff tomorrow, babysitting Wednesday.

A picture thought:

Gotta Love Sundays

2011-11-13T19:54:00.002-05:00

I can't say enough how much I love fall/winter Sundays of good food and football! I'm babysitting today and tonight though so I don't have much of a post in me.

I hope everyone's Sundays were as nice as mine!

92 Questions

2011-11-12T20:16:00.000-05:00

I got this from my friend Camille's blog. It looked cool so I did it.

Full Name: Rebecca Jean
Age: 40
Birthday: May 10

1. Last beverage : Ice Water
2. Last phone call : My cousin Dawn
3. Last text message : My brother Kevin
4. Last song : "Follow Me" by Uncle Kracker
5. Last time you cried : Today

HAVE YOU EVER:

6. Dated someone twice : Yes
7. Been cheated on : Yes
8. Kissed someone & regretted it: Yes
9. Lost someone special : Yes
10. Been depressed : Yes
11. Been drunk and threw up : No

LIST THREE FAVORITE COLORS:

12. Blue
13. Yellow
14. Sage green

SINCE LAST YEAR (2010), HAVE YOU:

15. Made a new friend : Yes
16. Fallen out of love : No
17. Laughed until you cried : Yes
18. Met someone who changed you : No
19. Found out who your true friends were : I think I already know that.
20. Found out someone was talking about you : No
21. Kissed anyone on your FB friend's list : No

GENERAL:

22. How many FB friends do you know in person: In person? They're all people.
24. Do you have any pets : Yes (3 cats, 1 dog)
25. Do you want to change your name : No
26. What did you do for your last birthday: Nothing. It sucked.
27. What time did you wake up today : 5:15
28. What were you doing at midnight last night : Sleeping.
29. Whats something you can't wait for: Thanksgiving
30. Last time you saw your father : I week ago when I was at my parents' house.
31. What is one thing you wish you could change about your life? I'd really only change 2 things...my health and finances.
32. What are you listening to right now: The tv blaring in the other room.
33. Have you ever talked to a person named Tom? Yes...my most serious ex boyfriend.
34. What's getting on your nerves right now : The blaring tv in the other room.
35. Most visited webpage : Facebook
37. Nickname(s): Becky, Beck
38. Last Book you read: "The Body In the Gallery" by Katharine Hall Page
39. Zodiac Sign : Taurus
40. He or She: Eh?
41. Elementary : Charleston Elementary and Don Gill Elementary.
42. High School : Wellsboro Area High
43. College: Bloomsburg University then Mansfield University
44. Hair color : Dark Brown
46. Height : 4' 7"
47. Do you have a crush on someone? Not currently
48. What do you like about yourself? My intelligence, my sense of humor, I could go on lol
50. Tattoos : No!
51. Righty or lefty : Righty

FIRSTS :

52. First surgery: Open heart surgery
53. First piercing : Ears
54. First best friend: Ann.
55. First sport you joined : Softball.
56. First vacation : I honestly can't remember.

RIGHT NOW :

59. Eating: Nothing. I'm actually full! That's rare.
60. Drinking: Ice Water
61. I'm about to: Finish this note
62. Listening to: Um...the stupid blaring tv in the other room lol.
63. Waiting for: Bedtime.

YOUR FUTURE :

64. Want kids? : I have four. I'm done but I think that means yes.
65. Get Married? : Maybe.
66. Career? : Mom and teacher

WHICH IS BETTER :

67. Lips or eyes : Eyes.
68. Hugs or kisses : Both please.
69. Shorter or taller : Taller
70. Older or Younger : Older
71. Romantic or spontaneous : Romantic
72. Nice stomach or nice arms : Arms
73. Sensitive or loud : Sensitive
74. Hook-up or relationship: Relationship
75. Funny or Shy?: Funny

HAVE YOU EVER :

76. Kissed a stranger : No
77. Drank hard liquor : No
80. Broke someone's heart : I hope not.
81. Had your own heart broken : Yes
82. Been arrested : No
83. Turned someone down : Yes
84. Cried when someone died : Yes

DO YOU BELIEVE IN:

86. Yourself : Yes
87. Miracles : Yes
88. Love at first sight: Yes.
89. Heaven : Yes
90. Santa Claus: I am Santa Claus.
91. The tooth fairy: I am the Tooth Fairy.
92. Angels : Yes

Thank You!

2011-11-11T17:10:00.000-05:00

I just want to take today to thank all the veterans for all they've done for me and this great country of ours!

Happy Veteran's Day:

Mom
Dad
Grandpa C
Grandpa K
Uncles C
Uncles K
Kimmi
Cory (my cousin)
Victor (cyber nephew)

Each and every service man and woman...past or presently serving!

Thanks! I owe you my life and my freedom!

Thirty in One

2011-11-10T19:33:00.005-05:00

I've seen lots of people doing "thirty days of thanks" but I didn't get started earlier so I thought I'd just list 30 things I'm grateful for.

So, I'm thankful for...

1. God.
2. My sons.
3. My parents.
4. My brother, sister, and their spouses.
5. My other close family members.
6. My friends.
7. My furbabies.
8. My home (dumpy as it is).
9. Having enough to eat. Well, food in general. I love to eat!
10. Music
11. The health of my loved ones.
12. My computer.
13. The internet.
14. Coffee.
15. Chocolate.
16. For living where the older boys can walk to and from school and sports practices.
17. Football (It's fun but mainly? It brings me closer to my sons)
18. Books.
19. Answered prayers.
20. My bed.
21. The wonderful memories I have of growing up and my sons' childhoods.
22. Laughter.
23. Fresh air.
24. The stars.
25. My car.
26. Lilacs and irises.
27. Lightening bugs.
28. Hot tubs.
29. Hugs.
30. T.V. lol.

Jokes

2011-11-09T20:34:00.005-05:00

I was having trouble coming up with a topic tonight. It's been a struggle this year but you can probably tell that by the lame posts. Here is Cory's attempt to help me out with a joke.

A brunette is walking down some train tracks repeating, "23, 23, 23..." A blonde hears and asks her why she's saying that. The brunette doesn't answer, so the blonde just joins her. Hearing a train coming, the brunette clears the tracks while the blonde stays on the tracks repeating, "23, 23, 23..." The train hits the blonde. The brunette hops back on the tracks and chants, "24, 24, 24..."

A Quick Note

2011-11-08T19:59:00.000-05:00

The last two posts are both supposed to have links in them. I can't seem to get them in and working. I'm not giving up....just letting you know lol.

Now, since I am tired tonight...that is all.

Simple Woman's Daybook for November 7th 2011

2011-11-07T20:30:00.004-05:00

Find it here.

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...it’s a dark, late fall night.

I am thinking...about everything I need to get done tomorrow.

I am thankful...for all the food that's in my freezer.

From the learning rooms...the boys are all doing well in school and are pretty independednt when it comes to homework. I did help Jay with a few equations tonight but he got the idea fairly quickly.

In the kitchen...we had baked ziti for dinner. Yum!

I am wearing...my pajamas. It IS 8:30!

I am creating...ugh! This one gets me every time lol.

I am going...to bed soon!

I am wondering...when I'm going to get a job.

I am reading...a mystery series with a caterer as the main character.

I am hoping...to start and finish Christmas shopping soon.

I am looking forward to...Thanksgiving.

I am hearing...Ty yelling for me to come watch the Eagles game with him.

Around the house...meh lol.

I am pondering...my occupational future. maybe teaching isn't going to work out.

One of my favorite things...the Eagles game!

A few plans for the rest of the week: None are really set. I'd like to wrok if I can.

A picture thought: I LOVE this picture of Cory.

Check It Out

2011-11-06T21:07:00.007-05:00

So. I love to read. It runs in my family...if you know me or have read my blog, you most likely know this. We love to read so much that my brother has a a little indie bookstore. It's awesome really! They are great at finding what you need and they ship. They're updating their site so check it out.

Fall

2011-11-05T20:32:00.000-04:00

I love fall but we seem to have skipped it this year. At least fall weather. It seems like it went straight from summer to winter. And with 4 kids in 5 sports? Time just flew! I can't believe it's November and that Thanksgiving is just around the corner. It just seems the older I get, the faster time flies. It's my least favorite part of aging I think.

Anyway, I HATE the cold weather outside and, as my friends will tell you, I am a total snow grinch but I DO love cold weather cooking and making the house as cozy as I can. I'm so excited for lasagna, roast, and all the other great meals cold weather brings. Of course, I'll be ready for grilling by the time it's all over lol.

More of Miss Britterbug

2011-11-04T20:56:00.006-04:00

Just because!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-03T17:57:00.001-04:00

Cory was The Crow and went trick or treating with friends. Jay was Freddie Krueger and Logan was Scream. The beautiful Kitty is my niece Brittanie. I have no pics of Ty because he didn't want to go since his girlfriend wasn't allowed to. Sigh...the teen years.

Update November 2011

2011-11-02T20:09:00.004-04:00

If you're reading this, you're awesome! Here's the promised update:

Cory: His back has seemingly FINALLY recovered and he's had a fantastic season with cross country. He's doing good in school. At 16 now, he's anxious to start driving lol. Mommy? Not so much. He turned out ot be my first case for stitches hehehe. I recently got a call from school that he'd chiseled his hand in wood shop and could I come take him to the ER? He's fine now, though.

Ty: He's doing great in school and had an AWESOME year for soccer and isn't too shabby at his first year of football, either.

Jay: He's doing well in school and has grown up so much since I last wrote. I'm so proud of him! He's just doing so well. He had a great year for soccer as well. He made a wicked good goalie!

Logan: He's an ace at school and is just plowing happily through life. He's currently sick but it's just strep throat and a round of antibiotics will have him fixed right up.

Me: Well, there's not much new here. I'm doing ok...plugging along, still looking for some sort of steady job.

We offically welcomed my niece Brittanie into the family Oct 17th. We love you, Brit!

There's not much in the way of actual news...we're just keeping on keeping on round here!

Holy Crow!

2011-11-01T19:14:00.005-04:00

It's November again and that means NaBloPoMo. I'm going to give it a go but I'm not making any promises lol.

I haven't written for almost a year. It seems hard to believe so much time has gone by. I'm not entirely sure WHY I haven't posted. I've started posts several times and deleted them. I guess there are a few reasons. It's a little weird for me to post given that most of the people, if not all, who read my blog are people I see or talk to everyday and already know about almost anything I'd have to say here. Then of course there's the fact that we've been busy, especially lately. This fall has brought on a slurry of 5 sports for 4 boys. Soccer and cross country are over and football nearly so now. I hope that means more time to just hang out and relax but we'll see.

Anyway, here I am and I'll post an update tomorow.

Goodbye 2010

2010-12-31T18:30:00.000-05:00

Looking back, I can't say this year has been a good one. Again. Maybe that's pretty typical. The negative has a way of making a bigger impact I guess. There have been some surprizes, lots of changes, and both joy and sadness this year. God even threw in a Christmas miracle. As much as I appreciate that miracle, I can't wait to kick 2010 to the curb and start over with new hopes and dreams for the new year.

May 2011 be blessed for all of us and full of joy, peace, health, and promises fulfilled!

Happy New Year!

I Can't Say It Enough

2010-12-15T11:39:00.004-05:00

I think the vast majority of the people who read this blog know me well enough that they know what a horrible yet miraculous roller coaster ride these last few days have been. You've been there offering your time, your ear, your prayers, and your help. I HATE that it takes times like these to bring home yet again just how blessed I am but boy am I glad to be! So, to everyone who's been there for me the last few days...thank you. You're wonderful and I hope you know how much I love you all!

Oh! God? I couldn't leave you out. Thank you for blessings beyond belief and a huge Christmas miracle. I love You!

Simple Woman's Daybook for 11/30

2010-11-30T15:32:00.006-05:00

You can go here for the rules and to see what others are talking about on their daybooks! I should've done this yesterday but got sidetracked by the funny email I wanted to share.

FOR TODAY:

Outside my window...it's gray and pouring a lovely winter rain.

I am thinking...about my bed. Yes, already.

I am thankful for...that I've now made it through NaBloPoMo!

From the learning rooms...there hasn't been much going on due to Thanksgiving break. The boys head back to school tomorrow!

From the kitchen...Do I have to cook? I am not hungry and have no desire to even think about dinner.

I am wearing...my nightie. But shhhh lol.

I am creating...a headache with this question lol. Need I be creating something every time? LOL.

I am going...to snuggle into bed early tonight.

I am reading...well, I finished the Towers of Midnight in the Wheel of Time series. Loved it and I can not wait for the next! Meantime I've started a new series (only three books that I know of) by Rosemary Harris. The main character is Paula Holliday, a landscaper and accidental sleuth.

I am hoping...I start feeling 100% soon. Yes, I'm back on the mend AGAIN but STILL not a 100%.

I am hearing...Logan playing. Ty is being very quiet on the other computer, Jay is upstairs, and Cory is at a friend's for dinner.

Around the house...I just don't care lol.

One of my favorite things...chatting with good friends.

A few plans for the rest of the week: holiday shopping and hopefully working a little!

Here is picture for thought I am sharing. I miss the old days sometimes!

Stressed? Not Me LOL

2010-11-29T19:19:00.005-05:00

This was forwarded to me by a good friend today. If you've seen it, I'm sorry. But it was too hilarious not to pass on.

I am not sure exactly how it works, but this is amazingly accurate.

Read the full description before looking at the picture below.

The picture below has 2 identical dolphins in it.

It was used in a case study on stress levels at St. Mary 's Hospital.

Look at both dolphins jumping out of the water.

The dolphins are identical.

A closely monitored scientific study revealed that, in spite of the fact that the dolphins are identical, a person under stress would find differences in the two dolphins.

The more differences a person finds between the dolphins, the more stress that person is experiencing.

Look at the photograph and if you find more than one or two differences you need to go on vacation.

Ahhhh...

2010-11-28T14:25:00.003-05:00

-No rushing around and nowhere to go

-A steaming good cup of coffee in my cozy chair

-The smells of baking zucchini bread

-Good food all day long

-Family reading time with the boys

-Planning the menu for the week

-Boardgames

-The sounds of my cheering boys

-The sounds of Football on tv

Must be Sunday at our house!!! :0)

PS: I'm not sure if it'll last and it's not 100% but I AM feeling better today!

I'm Sick.

2010-11-27T18:27:00.003-05:00

Yes, still. Better health for better blogs soon to come. I hope.

Friends or Family???

2010-11-26T12:53:00.008-05:00

I wasn't planning to sit and blog right this minute. I usually do that later in the day. I just checked the NaBloPoMo prompt page for something to occupy my mind as I wait for Cory to finish playing on the boys' computer and Ty to get home from his "job" (he does odd jobs for people in the neighborhood). But this prompt? I love.

This was yesterday's prompt: Who are you closer to, friends or family? Wow. I don't know how much I'll have to SAY about this subject but I know I it makes me feel a lot.

I'm close to my family. I think my mom and dad would do almost anything for us and I would do anything within my power for them. They've always been there for me. And my brother and sister? Ya...talk about blessings!!! My sister and I are amazingly close and I can't imagine anything ever changing that. We'ere always there for each other. And my brother? He's like the world's best uncle lol. He's watched the boys for me. He takes time with them, makes them laugh, teaches them things. I absolutely love him! And I get along with and LIKE my brother and sister in-law. My brother-in-law is so good for my sister and a great dad. And my sister in law? She's more like a sister. She's sweet, she cares, and she's been there for me, too. On top of that, I have several cousins that I just adore and a couple of aunts who are almost second moms to me. I'm so blessed by all of them.

But my friends? Holy cow! I am so blessed by them, too. Can I count them any less? There are friends I've made online that I can't imagine my life without. I've even met one of them. I talk to the ones I'm closest to at least once every day. On the rare day it happens that I don't? I'm completely thrown for a loop. We've all been there for each other and will continue to be so through some difficult times. I have 3 friends I've known since fourth grade who are like sisters to me. We don't talk or see each other very often now, but when we do it's as if we were never apart. There's not much I wouldn't do for any of these ladies.

I guess it comes to this. There is family. There are friends. And there are friends who ARE family. I'm happily extremely close to the first and inordinately blessed by the number of people I can count among the third. And I thank God for both every day!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T16:55:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday (Furbaby Love)

2010-11-24T16:54:00.004-05:00

Blogging

2010-11-23T19:11:00.006-05:00

I'm finding that I really like blogging. It's stimulating when I have a good idea that makes me dig a little deeper than usual. It's also very validating to hear from a friend who read your blog that it made them laugh, cry, or just think.

This November, for the most part, has been pretty easy to keep up with. There were a few days when I struggled for ideas but, for the most part, I just had fun with it. I'm actually finding myself a little sad that November is winding down. I know I said this last year, but I really do hope I find myself posting more when this is over.

Simple Woman's Daybook for 11/22/10

2010-11-22T16:46:00.007-05:00

You can go here for the rules and to see what others are talking about on their daybooks!

FOR TODAY:

Outside my window...it's overcast and dark. There were a few sunny moments today, but in general it was your typical winter day.

I am thinking...about a good book and a treat at the end of the day.

I am thankful for...God's timing!

From the learning rooms...Cory made honor roll last 9 weeks and Logan did great. Both Ty and Jay didn't do so well, as expected, but both seem more on track so far this 9 weeks.

From the kitchen...chili and cream corn casserole is on tap for dinner!

I am wearing...jeans and a purple shirt.

I am creating...I can't think of anything right now lol.

I am going...to start dinner as soon as I'm done with this post.

I am reading...the Towers of Midnight in the Wheel of Time series. Loving it but I'm not having as much time to devote to it as I usually do. (YUP! Still reading it but nearly done. I have less than a hundred to go!

I am hoping...I start feeling 100% soon. I'm down again today with a sore throat and fever.

I am hearing...silence lol. Logan is reading and the others are outside playing right up til the moment it's too dark to be out lol.

Around the house...I have more laundry to do.

One of my favorite things...pecan cookie bars!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Thanksgiving and a long weekend!

Here is picture for thought I am sharing. Summer fun!

Words

2010-11-21T12:02:00.000-05:00

I saw a prompt on a friend's blog that asked what your favorite poem is. Here's mine:

The Thousandth Man
by Rudyard Kipling

One man in a thousand, Solomon says,
Will stick more close than a brother.
And it's worth while seeking him half your days
If you find him before the other.
Nine nundred and ninety-nine depend
On what the world sees in you,
But the Thousandth man will stand your friend
With the whole round world agin you.

'Tis neither promise nor prayer nor show
Will settle the finding for 'ee.
Nine hundred and ninety-nine of 'em go
By your looks, or your acts, or your glory.
But if he finds you and you find him.
The rest of the world don't matter;
For the Thousandth Man will sink or swim
With you in any water.

You can use his purse with no more talk
Than he uses yours for his spendings,
And laugh and meet in your daily walk
As though there had been no lendings.
Nine hundred and ninety-nine of 'em call
For silver and gold in their dealings;
But the Thousandth Man h's worth 'em all,
Because you can show him your feelings.

His wrong's your wrong, and his right's your right,
In season or out of season.
Stand up and back it in all men's sight --
With that for your only reason!
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!

I first saw this poem referenced in a story I was reading. One of the characters quoted the last few lines in description of his relationship with another of the characters. I remember feeling so touched that I had to look it up, and it made me cry. I think it says a lot that I have remembered these words for years and years but have long forgotten the book I first read them in. I think it affected me so much because I wanted that-a person in my life to have that with. In fact, I think the only thing I've ever wanted more was children.

Nemesis Conquered

2010-11-20T17:43:00.004-05:00

For anyone who knows me it's no surprize that I like to cook. And ya, I'm pretty good. I'm not nearly as good as several women in my family and a couple of my foodie friends but, in general, I'm proud of my cooking. I have, though, never mastered the simple meatloaf. Most of the time it tastes good but crumbles into bits. It's been dry a time or two. I could just never get it right. Until last night. Holy wow. The taste? Spot on. It was moist. IT DIDN'T FALL APART!!! And oh my word the gravy. The best I ever made. I sat and ate it by itself by the spoonful. EVERYONE liked it. Mission finally accomplished. I have defeated the mighty meatloaf!!!!!

PS: I didn't measure so I can't give a recipe per se. I can say I put ketchup, oregano, an egg, bread crumbs, oatmeal, and parmesan cheese in it. I'm too much like my mom and I never measure unless I'm baking. I'll probably never be able to do it again! LOL.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I

2010-11-19T21:30:00.001-05:00

I went to see it tonight. I have to say I loved it. In fact, I think it might well be my favorite. It was a roller coaster ride from begining to end, really. It was sad, sentimental, scary, and exciting. I got there late enough that I didn't want to wait in line to buy a snack so when I decided later that I DID want popcorn, I was kind of in trouble. Even at the the part I found the most boring, I couldn't make myself get up and go get it. It was a darn good adaptation, too. I can't really think of any major changes I disagreed with or anything left out that I drastically missed. And the ending? Wow. I wasn't sure where they'd break between the two movies but it just seemed right to me.

Can you tell I really liked it? LOL.

School Pics 2010

2010-11-18T19:47:00.002-05:00

PLEASE NOTE: I didn't include Jay's at this time. He's asked me not to share his as it didn't turn out that well. He'll be getting retakes and as soon as that picture is back, I'll post it.

Simple Woman's Daybook for 11/17/10

2010-11-17T13:59:00.010-05:00

I'm planning on get back into this. I know it's Wednesday but if I remember lol I'll get back on the Monday schedule next week.

FOR TODAY:

Outside my window...it's overcast and dark. It's also VERY windy today.

I am thinking...about what I have to get done the rest of the day.

I am thankful for...having a plan for dinner already!

From the learning rooms...getting the boys through their homework is currently pretty easy. Cory, Ty, and Logan are nearly completely independent. Jay is doing better right now because the topic in Math (graphs and data) is much easier for him.

From the kitchen...I'm making meatloaf and mashed taters tonight for dinner.

I am wearing...tan slacks and a blue shirt.

I am creating...a loving, clean, and cozy home for the boys (hopefully.)

I am going...to pick the boys up from school soon.

I am reading...the Towers of Midnight in the Wheel of Time series. Loving it but I'm not having as much time to devote to it as I usually do.

I am hoping...for a job!

I am hearing...the Food Network on tv.

Around the house...everything is pretty caught up actually.

One of my favorite things...snuggling in my cozy chair with coffee and all my boys on the weekend.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Hopefully seeing Deathly Hallows Part 1 and just getting through the usual routine.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing: Mean mommy strikes again!!!!

Thankful

2010-11-16T22:35:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year and I'm feeling the need to remind myself of the blessings in my life. So, I am thankful for:

1. God.

2. The boys. We have our moments but I couldn't live without the love, laughter, joy, and excitement they bring into my life!

3. My friends and family! I'm truly blessed in this area.

4. My family's health.

5. The fact that we have all we need, even if not everything we want: enough food to eat, a place to live, warm clothes to wear, etc.

6. My car.

7. The little things that make my life so pleasant: clean sheets, coffee, music, movies, chocolate, etc.

Record Setting

2010-11-15T17:37:00.006-05:00

Wow! What a night for Eagles football. They had a record setting first quarter. It started with an opening play touchdown. They had 28 points by the end of the first, which has never been done before apparently. As I'm watching now in the second quarter it's 35 to 14. The best part? I got to watch it all with Ty, whose excitement made it all the better!

Off to finsih watching.

Random Sunday Musings

2010-11-14T19:26:00.004-05:00

Here's a random list of things about today:

I spent around 2 hours trying to fix our clippers so I could give the boys haircuts.

I threw out our clippers.

I gave all four of the boys haircuts with new clippers.

We went to the indoor pool. I needed the hot tub!

I made homemade mac and cheese. I don't think I make good mac and cheese but the boys love it. All of them. They request it. How can I argue with that?

At 8 pm at night, four haircuts does not seem like that much to have accomplished in a day. Especially when the house is now a mess. Sigh.

Sometimes? Two cups of coffee just isn't enough.

I am exhausted. Is it really only 8 pm?

I Could...

2010-11-13T17:47:00.007-05:00

-blog a meme as I've seen a couple out there.

-do a Saturday six post I've been working on but it's been a mind bender and isn't finished.

-tell you about a few of the crazier things happening here the last few days.

-put myself out there and ask for questions from readers. Nah...I'd just be embarrassed that no one responded LOL.

I think I'll just cheat again and leave you with a couple of pictures. Care to guess where we went today????

ETA: Please enjoy the fierce look. He's really not mad. The doctor noted his football jersey and pretended to think he'd been injured in a big game so that's the look he was going for. He loved every minute of it! Well, that and the 2 (yes, 2) "very hot looking" nurses fawning over him. No one senses Cory's influence there, right? ;)

Yummo

2010-11-12T19:06:00.002-05:00

This was in our little town yesterday. What I want to know? Where's my chocolate?

Veteran's Day

2010-11-11T16:06:00.005-05:00

Veteran's Day has always meant a lot to me. There are a lot of people on both sides of my family, including my parents, who were in the military. That also includes my cousin Cory currently serving in Afghanistan. I've had several friends in the military. But this year? Some things have made it even more meaningful to me. I was shocked and so sad to learn that my friend Patty's son was killed in action after being deployed for only a couple of weeks. My friend Gina's son was killed in a car accident. He was too young yet to serve but was planning on it and was involved where he could be. The third and final thing is that Cory (my son, not my cousin) has expressed interest in serving when he graduates and since he's in 9th grade, we've been exploring opportunities for him in that area. All of this just brings it closer to home than ever.

So let me just say this: If you have served, are serving, or are going to serve, please know that you have my everlasting gratitude and respect!

Wordless Wednesday (Brotherly Love Version)

2010-11-10T18:54:00.001-05:00

Today...

2010-11-09T17:04:00.003-05:00

In ten words:

1. Early

2. Dark

3. Tiring

4. Long

5. Cold

6. Quiet

7. Calm

8. Productive

9. Wintery

10. OVER!

Ahhhh, Monday. Sweet Monday

2010-11-08T19:21:00.004-05:00

After I posted yesterday, the weekend continued in the same way. The conversation from my previous post happened on Saturday and Sunday was just as fun. We had good food that everyone was happy to try, even if not everyone liked it. We watched the Eagles game together and just had a very pleasant day.

And then...

Monday had to come along and hit me like a ton of bricks lol. It started early when Jay locked the keys in the car after it was started so it could warm up. Thirty dollars for a locksmith to open it up. That was the worst of it but the rest of the day was pretty much the same, just lots of little things here and there that didn't go right. Like getting to the grocery store and realizing I had left my purse at home. Ah well. There's only a few more hours left in the day and at least the kids are in good moods.

My Heart

2010-11-07T14:05:00.004-05:00

I've never gone into much detail on my blog with the boys' stories or behaviors but if you read enough, you know that at times they can be challenging. In the past, I have felt defeated and even a bit broken at times. I've also recently said that I think we, as a family, and as individuals, have made some serious progress. I do know, as I've said before, that there will be more work to be done. But it's moments like last night that make my heart melt and make it all worth while.

We were driving to a local megamart and it was just a moment I want to freeze and carry with me forever. We began talking about lucky numbers, which for the boys translates quickly to birthdays, locker numbers/combinations, jersey numbers of favorite athletes, and car numbers of favorite NASCAR drivers. This led to what we call "double lucky" numbers...numbers that have more than one meaning for that person. Example...Ty's jersey number this year was 16 and that is in his locker combination. Logan's favorite race car driver is #2 and his birthday is the second. It was just fun and silly UNTIL this:

Ty: You were born in 1971, right, mom?
Me: Yep.
Ty: So you're going to be the big 4-0 this year. (Yes, he already knew this. I've been lamenting it for a few years now. Two actually...since my older brother turned 40 lol.)
Jay: Hey! That's cool. You need to celebrate. We should really do something for it this year.
Ty: Yeah! What can we do?
Logan: We should par-tay! (Yes he said it like that. I swear I don't know where he got it from lol.)
Jay: Aunt Val will help us, guys!
Ty: You're gonna be so surprized mom! (Um, no, now I'm not. But thanks! LOL)

At this point the conversation veered in another direction. I was lost in my own space for a few minutes but they didn't notice. I was thinking about the love and excitement in their voices. And you know what? I know I shouldn't need that to make me feel loved, respected, and validated. But it did anyway.

The Saturday Six

2010-11-06T22:08:00.004-04:00

Thanks, Camille, for the post idea!

Today's Saturday Six is: Name 6 of your favorite Movie Soundtracks and also a favorite track from each one.

1. Beaches has to be my favorite. I like so many of the songs on it but here are a few: "Wind Beneath My Wings", "Under the Boardwalk", and "I know You by Heart."

2. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves simply for one of my favorite songs ever, "Everything I do."

3. Dirty Dancing because I love "The time of My life" and "She's Like the Wind."

4. Young Guns because what can I say? I love Bon Jovi! "Blaze of Glory," "Billy Get Your Guns," "Blood Money," "Miracle"...need I say more?

5. The Bodyguard for songs like "I Will Always Love You" and "I Have Nothing."

6. Highlander because I like Queen's music. There's something haunting about "Who Wants to Live Forever."

Better

2010-11-05T20:57:00.003-04:00

I'm tired and coughing but much better than yesterday. The house is clean, the boys are in bed or heading that way, and I have a treat and a good book waiting for me. So...despite an hour or so of "Calgon take me away" moments this afternoon, it's gonna be a good night!

More Pictures...What Are Ya Gonna Do Bout It?

2010-11-04T17:55:00.004-04:00

I know I did pictures yesterday but I'm not feeling the best so it's what you're going to get. These are our traditional fall pics. I'm showing you my favorite group shot and individual shot of each of the boys. Really, though, most didn't come out very well technically. They always seemed to be blurry or the lighting was way off. I'm hoping to try again but we'll see. Anyway, enjoy!

Halloween Pictures

2010-11-03T18:15:00.005-04:00

I'm taking a bit of an easy way out and just leaving you with some pics tonight. We have for your viewing pleasure: the pumpkins the boys carved, Cory in the process of carving as he did not go trick or treating with us this year, and the boys dressed for trick or treating. The little girl in the pictuere with the boys is Ty's sister. Enjoy!

Mini Update

2010-11-02T15:56:00.004-04:00

Things are going pretty well here. Cory and Logan are doing great in school. Jay and Ty have had some ups and downs academically. It's actually been such a roller coaster ride with them that I'm waiting for report cards next week to know how they'll end up doing.

Behavior here has really stabilized lately. Do I dare say we've had some true breakthroughs? I realize that there will be backslides and that some of the issues they deal with they'll have to work on for the rest of their lives, but I have seen some true healing going on.

Soccer and cross country are offically over. Both older boys have plans to join other sports as well this year, though. We'll have to see what happens with that. Ty is interested in basketball and Cory is thinking about track in the Spring. Skiing starts in January as well for all of them.

The job ended up not working out so I'm back substituting and stressing about money. Prayers for permanent, full time employment would be much appreciated by those of you who pray. Aside from that, I'm doing well.

NaBloPoMo

2010-11-01T15:32:00.003-04:00

Yeah, I'm gonna do it. Why not, right? LOL. So I guess you all might expect some very exciting (ahem lol) posts on the boys and my oh so thrilling life lol. That's it for Day 1. Easy enough, right? I so got this :)

First day of School 2010 and an Update

2010-09-26T16:14:00.004-04:00

The school year is well underway here so I thought I'd update everyone on us. I'm sorry I've been such a bad blogger. I've just been really busy. There have been nights where we were literally only home in time to pretty much go to bed.

Cory is once again rocking it. He's doing fantastic at both school AND cross country. I'm just so proud of him!

Tyler is doing ok at school. He needs to work a bit harder, but he can do it. He's loving being on the school soccer team, and I'm enjoying watching him play. He, and his team, are really good.

Jay is doing well in school with the exception of Math, which has always been his hard subject. He loves soccer, and is a really good player, though his team this year isn't winning many games. Behaviorally he's doing much better.

Logan loves school and as of right now needs no help at all. He loves soccer and is a good player, too. He's tiny but athletic.

As for me? Well, I've been subbing. Every day. The good news is I love the job. The bad news is the pay. It's a part time aide position so it doesn't pay as much as a teacher but it's not bad. And, actually, it's probably more than I'd be making subbing as a teacher right now just because it's steady. The job is now open and I put in for it. I should know soon if I get it or not.

Here's a picture of the boys back on the first day of school. Cory was stressed, and that means grumpy for him, so none of them turned out all that great. Enjoy anyway lol.

65 Questions

2010-09-26T15:19:00.002-04:00

65 Questions You've Probably Never Been Asked...you know the rules. Tag people in this note (including the person who tagged you!) to learn more about people. Also, try to tag people who you've tagged in other notes, sometimes you learn things in new notes that you didn't know before about them...

1. First thing you wash in the shower?

My face

2. What color is your favorite hoodie?

I don't own a hoodie (I know...GASP!)

3. Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?

Definitely

4. Do you plan outfits?

Work outfits only

5. How are you feeling RIGHT now?

My legs ache a bit but good and happy otherwise.

6. What’s the closest thing to you that's red?

Jay's pj's (on the floor where they aren't supposed to be)

7. Tell me about the last dream you remember having?

I don't remember any to tell about.

8. Did you meet anybody new today?

Nope

9. What are you craving right now?

Chocolate

10. Do you floss?

Yes but not regularly

11. What comes to mind when I say cabbage?

Coleslaw

12. Are you emotional?

Very

13. Have you ever counted to 1,000?

Probably but not that I remember for certain.

14. Do you bite into your ice cream or just lick it?

I bite it sometimes.

15. Do you like your hair?

Yes

16. Do you like yourself?

Yes

17. Would you go out to eat with George W. Bush?

Sure. Why not?

18. What are you listening to right now?

Just the noises of the boys and house around me.

19. Are your parents strict?

They were.

20. Would you go sky diving?

Yes, I think I would.

21. Do you like cottage cheese?

Yes

22. Have you ever met a celebrity?

A few music stars...the band Queensryche and Randy Travis. Weird taste range, I know lol.

23. Do you rent movies often?

Nope – Netflix. Love it.

24. Is there anything sparkly in the room you're in?

Not really

25. How many countries have you visited?

5

26. Have you made a prank phone call?

Of course!

27. Ever been on a train?

Only subways. Does that count?

28. Brown or white eggs?

Either.

29.Do you have a cell phone?

Yes

30. Do you use chapstick?

Not really.

31. Do you own a gun?

No

32. Can you use chop sticks?

Not well

33. Who are you going to be with tonight?

My sons.

34. Are you too forgiving?

I don't think so. I tend to forgive easily, but I think that's how it should be. There's only a handful of people I haven't forgiven and they hurt my children.

35. Ever been in love?

Yes

36. What is your best friend(s) doing tomorrow?

Being a SAHM.

37. Ever have cream puffs?

Yes

38. Last time you cried?

Two nights ago while watching a movie

39. What was the last question you asked?

Whose turn is it to take out the trash?

40. Favorite time of the year?

It's a toss up between fall and THE holidays.

41. Do you have any tattoos?

No

42. Are you sarcastic?

Frequently

43. Have you ever seen The Butterfly Effect?

Yes I have.

44. Ever walked into a wall?

No. No one saw so that's my story and I'm sticking to it!

45. Favorite color?

Green.

46. Have you ever slapped someone?

Yes

47. Is your hair curly?

Usually more like wavy than curly.

48. What was the last CD you bought?

It's been so long all I could say is that it was most likely country music. Probably Buddy Jewel.

49. Do looks matter?

Depends on the situation. It doesn't affect whether or not I like someone but for some things? a certain look is just needed.

50. Last text you received?

I IM but I don't text. The last IM I got as I write this was: "Exactly"

51. Is your phone bill sky high?

No.

52. Do you like your life right now?

Most of it. I am totally blessed!

53. Do you sleep with the TV on?

No.

54. Can you handle the truth?

Yes.

55. Do you have good vision?

Not really

56. Do you hate or dislike more than 3 people?

I hate 2. I dislike more.

57. How often do you talk on the phone?

Not that much actually.

58. The last person you held hands with?

Logan

59. What are you wearing?

Blue shorts and a tee shirt

60.What is your favorite animal?

Dogs

61. Where was your default picture taken?

Outside at a local landmark

62. Can you hula hoop?

Yes but I was actually GOOD at it as a kid.

63. Do you have a job?

Two actually...mommy and teacher.

64. What was the most recent thing you bought?

Milk.

65. Have you ever crawled through a window?

Yes.

As usual, I won't tag anyone in particular. If you wanna and haven't, I'd love to read it!

Ready for School

2010-08-23T10:08:00.004-04:00

We've been keeping busy enjoying what's left of summer. We've done more fishing, gone to the lake again, and of course we have everything we need for the school year. Well, except jeans. They all need new jeans. That can wait though since they all like to wear shorts for as long as the weather allows.

This is the beginning of the busiest time of year for us. Ty, Jay, and Logan are all in soccer and Cory runs for cross country. At the high school now. Can you believe that? A high school student! Anyway, it's challenging to work a schedule that allows us to eat together as much as possible this time of year and for me to get to as many games for all the boys as I can, but I absolutely love it. Fall sports...bring it on!

Pictures

2010-07-27T13:09:00.002-04:00

Here are a couple of pictures from the baseball game. They didn't all turn out that great but I love them! There's also a pic of Jay's family birthday cake.

Fun

2010-07-27T12:39:00.005-04:00

Since my last post, the boys' behavior has gotten even better. There's the typical sniping at each other because of the enforced togetherness that is summer lol but I can deal with that no problem. We've actually been making some headway, I think. Real progress! This isn't to say that there won't be other backslides or brand new issues that come up but I feel good about where we all are right now.

One thing that might be helping is I am trying to keep us as busy as I can. We're doing the usual swimming, library visits, and park outings. We went to a AAA professional baseball game on Saturday for Jay's birthday. Cory was the only one who'd gone to a pro game before. They all were so excited, though, that you would've thought it was Christmas. I loved every minute of it lol. I've been to two Phillies games and this little AAA game? Had them beat to heck because of the boys. I bought each of the boys new baseballs before we went and the players were very gracious with their autographs. The whole thing was just a blast!

Happy Fourth and A Note

2010-07-05T11:47:00.005-04:00

I hope you all had a happy, safe holiday weekend. We certainly did. The boys were well behaved all day, the weather was nice, and the fireworks were fun. We had snacks, sparklers, and a great place to watch from. I DID forget to take my camera. Bummer lol. Anyway, it was a really great night.

Now. A quick note about my prolonged bloggy absence. I started posts several times but they never made it to "post." There was one that did but I deleted it within a short period of time because it seemed too pity party and attention-seeking. Not that it wasn't true, just...I don't know. Suffice it to say that from about March through early June things were NOT so good. Some of it was dealing with the boys' behaviors but probably more was me. Their behaviors weren't new. We were in a "mega backslide" but it wasn't anything I hadn't seen before. It's just that after 3 years of dealing with those issues, I was anxious and aroused myself. Feel free to add in a healthy dose of depression and exhaustion from those same years of having children with sleep issues. In other words, they DON'T. Sleep that is. So I don't. Anyway, I was just NOT in a good place. I've never gone too much into detail about the boys' behaviors and it seemed like that was my life. Everything, no matter how big or small, was the straw that broke my back. I didn't know, and I'm still not really sure about this, how much I wanted to share. It made writing hard.

At any rate, things are currently better. I'm still exhausted but not quite as much as before. Behaviors are leveling out for the time being. The summer so far has been mostly rejuvenating, for all of us. My anxiety is much more under control. I have a handle on it now. I guess I tend towards being an anxious person anyway but the last few years with so much out of my control, mainly the court case and the boys' behaviors, saw it grow to a proportion I have never before had to deal with. Anyway, I am dedicating this summer to as much fun and healing (physically and emotionally) as we can get!

The Cat in the Cup

2010-04-18T16:17:00.004-04:00

This is just a quick, cute home video of our cat Sparky. Pretty self-explanatory lol.

Birthday Boy Then and Now

2010-04-09T20:13:00.003-04:00

Then...just turning 3.

Now...my very preppy 6 yr old big boy.

Happy Birthday, Boo! You've grown up so much. I look at you now and I have to admit I don't have a baby anymore. Such a big year you've had...starting kindergarten, learning to read, and loosing teeth are just a few of your bigger accomplishments. I know you're still struggling with the harder things life has thrown at you, but I want you to know that I'm proud of how far you've come. We'll keep working on it together til we get it right! And thanks for saying that you'll always be my baby, even if you don't mean it lol.

A Lot of Nuthin'

2010-03-17T16:37:00.007-04:00

I haven't had a whole lot to say recently, obviously. There's just not much new going on. We're plugging along doing the day to day grind. We're enjoying the begining of spring weather and I'm looking forward to the summer for now. I intend to enjoy it a lot more than last year, which we all refer to as the summer that wasn't LOL.

Updates on each of us~
Cory is still rocking the school year. He's doing great with little help or guidance from me. I hope he can keep this up. I'm really proud of this new found independence. He had a mega spurt of disrespect going on but has really turned that around.

Ty is doing well too. He really didn't have any problems except for reading. He's in 6th grade and was reading on a 3rd grade level and then not passing his AR quizzes. AR quizzes are short computer quizzes on regular books that kids might read anyway. It's a good way to get kids to like reading more. Anyway, he's now taking and passing 5th grade level quizzes so he's put some effort in and is doing much better.

Jay's doing great in school. He's reading the same books Ty is and passing them so he's in 3rd reading on a 5th grade level. His struggle is in Math but not so much that I'm worried about him. Behaviorally he's going through a rough patch. I'm tired, he's testing. Still, we're dealing with it and I hope I don't jinx it by saying I think we're on the downside of this backslide.

Logan is reading up a storm and is doing well at school. He's behaving slightly better too. I still see the same behaviors but they're not quite as frequent.

I haven't been subbing much and except for not making the extra money I don't mind too much lol. I LOVE teaching but subbing is a lot different and I really don't like it.

That's about all for now, folks!

Entitlement Part 2

2010-02-02T10:45:00.007-05:00

There's a few things I'd like to add now on the topic, being calmer and have given some more thought on the issue.

Babies are NOT possessions to be fought over. It makes me sick when this happens, especially because some of the ones doing the most and the nastiest "fighting" are the very ones who are complaining that adoptive parents treat them as possessions that can be bought and sold. I have to include myself in this fighting to a point as I have sometimes (ahem...as in last night for one) given in to the insults and had my say. The best I can say about my behavior at these times is that it's always been defensive. Ya, I know. "You started it" is a poor excuse. I admit that.

What the mothers of loss who do this "on the offensive" need to understand is that their anger is more often misdirected than not. What do they hope to gain by insulting the general population of adoptive parents? They were insulted? Well, I'm sorry but I wasn't the one hurling those insults. Does it change the past to spew back the insults now? Do they really feel better? If so, WHY? It makes them no better than the people who treated them that way. They were called birthmothers and worse so now call us adopters? They were insulted when people told them the pregnancy was their fault so now infertility is automatically ours?

A couple of notes here. I am not judging anyone's choice to have sex before marriage. Most people do. If they were not treated with compassion while facing the consequences of that choice I am sorry. For me, though, it's a fact that every person who makes a choice has to deal with whatever might come next because of it. That's why teens shouldn't have sex in my opinion. This too isn't a judgement. It's an opinion based on the fact that most are not ready to deal with the potential consequences of it. Sex is for adults because it has potential adult consequences. Simple as that.

Anyway, now that I have that out of of my system I'll finish my thoughts on entitlement. Having a baby is a priviledge, not a right, for ANY parent. It makes no difference how you got to be a parent. No one is entitled to a baby. It happens that people who become parents through both conception and adoption sometimes get the priviledge of parenting without deserving it. Unless a "good parent detector" is invented that's not going to change. THOSE are the people who shouldn't get to be parents. I guess I could sum it up like this: good people who are or would be good parents deserve the chance to be parents.

Entitlement

2010-02-01T19:15:00.007-05:00

Some people may not like this post. I don't care. I think I normally have a fairly progresssive and realsitic point of view about adoption but sometimes something just ticks me off and I have to vent about it. That's where I'm at. Please, bear it in mind while reading.

I've seen more entitlement talk around adoption blogs. It seems to crop up fairly regularly. Please note, I'd like to say AGAIN that I never felt entitled to a child but I am a good mother and deserve to be one as much as anyone else does.

The thing that makes me the angriest is when I'm told that I don't dseserve to be a mother because my infertility is my fault. First of all, it's not. It's a genetic issue no one had any control of. I've seen the primary causes of infertility cited and sure some of them are life choices. But you know what? So is having sex. So let's look at this a moment. There are several genetic and environmental causes of infertility that are NOT caused by a choice. There is only one, yes ONE, cause of pregnancy that is not a lifestyle choice. That obvioulsly is rape. When you compare the percentages of pregnancies caused by rape to the percentages of people who are infertile through no fault of their own, which do YOU want to bet is higher?

I'm sick of being told that infertility does not entitle anyone to a baby. It's not that I think it does. It's just that you know what? Neither does being being able to get pregnant.

The Begining of the End

2010-01-31T19:47:00.005-05:00

Need I say more?

Life Lesson

2010-01-10T23:21:00.003-05:00

Here's something I wish everyone knew, respected, and lived.

There are bad, evil people in every walk of life. No one group is exempt from that fact. If you base your opinions of groups on the few bad members of said groups, it logically follows that you simply will never find ANY group of people acceptable to you. So don't do it!!!!!!!!

Another Give Away

2010-01-02T11:56:00.004-05:00

You might want to check this out if you're on a tight budget! The author/blogger is giving away copies of her cookbook "The Five Dollar Mom Cookbook."

My First Award

2010-01-01T11:28:00.007-05:00

I got my first award from Marythemom over at Muddling Through Mayhem. Thank you, Mary!

The Happy 101 rules are as follows:
List 10 things that make you happy and try to do one of them today. Tag 10 bloggers that brighten your day. For those 10 bloggers who get the award, link back to my blog and create a list of things that make you happy.

My Ten things that make me happy:
1. The boys, of course! What would I do without them?
2. My furbabies (when they're not knocking over water glasses or chewing up hearing aids lol).
3. My mom and dad. I just love them a lot and I know I can count on them.
4. My brother and sister and their significant others. They're great and we're there for each other.
5. My soon to be niece, B! She's silly, girly, and just all around fun.
6. My friends!
7. The hot tub!
8. Chocolate! Well, good food in general lol.
9. Reading a good book.
10. Good tv or a good movie!

I'm passing the award on to:
All the bloggers out there! LOL! I'm not good at tagging people and I love all the blogs I read (or I wouldn't read them lol). Every blog I read makes me happy in some way, even if it's just that I learn from the blogger. Mary, I hope you're ok with that! LOL.

Yes, Readers, There IS A Decent Corporation!

2009-12-30T12:35:00.011-05:00

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?

More Holiday Fun

2009-12-28T17:33:00.005-05:00

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.

Christmas This Year

2009-12-27T19:42:00.006-05:00

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!

Give Away

2009-12-09T22:08:00.003-05:00

McKMama has a great give away going on. Go check it out!

Cutie Patooties

2009-12-01T18:48:00.011-05:00

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!

You Might Be a Redneck If...

2009-11-30T11:58:00.000-05:00

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' ;)

The Gift

2009-11-29T15:51:00.001-05:00

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?

50 things About Lil Ole Me

2009-11-28T16:21:00.001-05:00

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.

Off

2009-11-27T13:40:00.003-05:00

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."

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T15:27:00.003-05:00

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!

Blast from the Past

2009-11-25T20:25:00.005-05:00

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!

Look Alike

2009-11-24T16:53:00.003-05:00

If they make a movie from this book, I think Cory should definitely get the part. Don't you?

Fear

2009-11-23T19:36:00.007-05:00

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.

Mommy Bragging Cubed

2009-11-22T14:53:00.005-05:00

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.

What This Mama Needs...

2009-11-21T17:56:00.003-05:00

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!

Cooking Part 2

2009-11-20T18:45:00.003-05:00

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.

Thankful

2009-11-19T20:05:00.005-05:00

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.

Had to Share

2009-11-18T20:52:00.002-05:00

My sister sent me this in an email. I just thought the baby was so cute I had to share! I love animals lol.

Cooking

2009-11-17T21:11:00.007-05:00

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.

School Pics 09

2009-11-16T16:45:00.006-05:00

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.

Pure Cuteness

2009-11-15T16:37:00.002-05:00

More Bragging, Different Child

2009-11-14T19:28:00.005-05:00

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!

Meant to Be

2009-11-13T16:47:00.009-05:00

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.