It's a day of reflection. Just as every other year on this exact day. We're ready to say goodbye to the past 12 months and prepare to usher in a new set. It's time to sit back and reflect on what's happened, both the high and low lights of the past 365 days.
I could go on and on and on and on and on and on and on as I'm sure everyone'd all be delighted to read and hear about! (Ha!) But instead, I'm going to keep the ramblings short, to just our top 11 events for the year 2011.
In no particular order...
**Reilly had his first (and we pray, ONLY) surgery this past Spring when he got his ear tubes put in.
**I had carpal tunnel surgery on my left hand.
**Dave officially became the father of two teenagers!
**We sadly had to put Dave's Red Rocket (his not so family friendly red Volkswagen) to rest.
**We moved the two teenagers to the basement! :)
**Dave and I celebrated being married 4 years.
**We celebrated the main man in our house turning 2 with a big ol' Elmo Bash!
**Reilly got to go on his first boat ride this summer with Aunt Kim, Uncle Glenn and Brady
**We spent many, many, many days at the zoo.
**I experienced going to the REAL BINGO hall with my dear friend Kendra and two dear sisters.
**I had my first weekend away (since being a mommy) with a great bunch of women in Chicago for a dear friend's birthday.
There are so many more that didn't make the list. The most important being--Spending such important time as a family, and with our family and friends who mean everything to us.
This remains our New Year's Resolution for 2012....surround ourselves by good people and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Happy New Year!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
15 years
15 years. It's a long time. An even longer time if that's how long you've experienced a heartache of huge proportions. A long time to miss someone who you so dearly love. Trust me, it's a LONG time.
15 years ago this morning, we were forced to say goodbye to the most prized treasure of our lives. She was our rock. Our friend. Our supporter. Our shoulder to cry on. Our "wait till your father gets home" threatener. Our chef. Our bill payer. Our nurse. Our doctor. Our house cleaner. Our MOM. There is no other lady like her. She was the best. Simply the best.
There is not a day in the past 15 years that I haven't talked to her, prayed to her, whispered things in my head to her. There isn't a day that I haven't missed her, wished she was here with me and prayed that I become a mom just like her.
I look at Reilly and know there are parts of my mom in his smile. In his orneriness. In his fits. He's just like me, and I'm just like her. I wouldn't rather it be any other way. I know that she would be proud of him. I also know that he will always have a very special angel always looking over his shoulder and keeping him safe. Just as we all do.
15 years is a long time. Although, if I stop long enough, I can remember her smile. I can remember her laugh. I can remember how angry she would be, and then 5 minutes later, she'd be giving you a hug. I remember everything about her.
No matter the days. No matter the years. I'll never forget.
She'll always be my mom. She'll always be in my heart.
15 years ago this morning, we were forced to say goodbye to the most prized treasure of our lives. She was our rock. Our friend. Our supporter. Our shoulder to cry on. Our "wait till your father gets home" threatener. Our chef. Our bill payer. Our nurse. Our doctor. Our house cleaner. Our MOM. There is no other lady like her. She was the best. Simply the best.
There is not a day in the past 15 years that I haven't talked to her, prayed to her, whispered things in my head to her. There isn't a day that I haven't missed her, wished she was here with me and prayed that I become a mom just like her.
I look at Reilly and know there are parts of my mom in his smile. In his orneriness. In his fits. He's just like me, and I'm just like her. I wouldn't rather it be any other way. I know that she would be proud of him. I also know that he will always have a very special angel always looking over his shoulder and keeping him safe. Just as we all do.
15 years is a long time. Although, if I stop long enough, I can remember her smile. I can remember her laugh. I can remember how angry she would be, and then 5 minutes later, she'd be giving you a hug. I remember everything about her.
No matter the days. No matter the years. I'll never forget.
She'll always be my mom. She'll always be in my heart.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
A Perfect Stranger
Perfect strangers are sometimes the perfect people. Our family is learning a lot about that this week.
On Wednesday afternoon, I received a phone call from my dad sharing that my step-sister's house had been ravaged by fire that morning. He was pretty sure that there wouldn't be anything to save from the three boys' bedrooms. He was indeed right.
They are a family of five who lost a huge chunk of their home, 90% of the loss being the bedrooms that were upstairs. All three boys, and my step-sister and brother in law had the clothes they were wearing that day and a lucky load of whites they later found in the dryer. Much of the house contents were lost to smoke and water damage.
Asking for help doesn't come easy to many people. I'm one of them. So are they. Unfortunately, there hasn't been much choice but to ask, and rely on their faith to pull them through this difficult time. This week has been about AMAZING people reaching into their pocket books, just a week before Christmas, and giving to their family. This includes perfect strangers. AMAZING people, who are strangers. They don't know Teri and Justin, and Teri and Justin don't know them.
Kim, Keely and I have all sent emails to the amazing people we work with, and the love and support that our family has been shown has been overwhelming. These people don't know the kids, and yet they are bringing us bags upon bags of clothes and items that Teri and Justin can start to rebuild their home with.
Today, Keely and I were out shopping. As we were leaving Old Navy, feeling pretty proud of the savings we got and the deals we made, we had an extra pep to our step. There was another lady behind us that shared some of her story. It started as she said,
"That store is really amazing. I am out shopping today for a family that lost everything in a house fire earlier this week. When the worker found out what I was doing, she gave me an extra 30% off. I was so pleased with their customer service and so very thankful. I don't even know the people who had the fire, they are friends of a friend, but I just had to do something. I had some extra this holiday season, so I came here to get a few things for them."
This peaked Keely and I's interest, so much so, that I had to ask. I asked her if she knew the names of the people who had the fire, and she said they were her friends' friends. She finally came up with the name.
The very same name as my step-sister and brother in law.
A perfect stranger, who felt called to help. A stranger who didn't know Teri, Justin or the boys. A stranger who went to Old Navy and purchased clothes for someone they had never met.
Keely and I got in the van, a bit shaken, with goosebumps on our bodies. What are the chances????
I hope that perfect stranger knows she's a perfect person.
On Wednesday afternoon, I received a phone call from my dad sharing that my step-sister's house had been ravaged by fire that morning. He was pretty sure that there wouldn't be anything to save from the three boys' bedrooms. He was indeed right.
They are a family of five who lost a huge chunk of their home, 90% of the loss being the bedrooms that were upstairs. All three boys, and my step-sister and brother in law had the clothes they were wearing that day and a lucky load of whites they later found in the dryer. Much of the house contents were lost to smoke and water damage.
Asking for help doesn't come easy to many people. I'm one of them. So are they. Unfortunately, there hasn't been much choice but to ask, and rely on their faith to pull them through this difficult time. This week has been about AMAZING people reaching into their pocket books, just a week before Christmas, and giving to their family. This includes perfect strangers. AMAZING people, who are strangers. They don't know Teri and Justin, and Teri and Justin don't know them.
Kim, Keely and I have all sent emails to the amazing people we work with, and the love and support that our family has been shown has been overwhelming. These people don't know the kids, and yet they are bringing us bags upon bags of clothes and items that Teri and Justin can start to rebuild their home with.
Today, Keely and I were out shopping. As we were leaving Old Navy, feeling pretty proud of the savings we got and the deals we made, we had an extra pep to our step. There was another lady behind us that shared some of her story. It started as she said,
"That store is really amazing. I am out shopping today for a family that lost everything in a house fire earlier this week. When the worker found out what I was doing, she gave me an extra 30% off. I was so pleased with their customer service and so very thankful. I don't even know the people who had the fire, they are friends of a friend, but I just had to do something. I had some extra this holiday season, so I came here to get a few things for them."
This peaked Keely and I's interest, so much so, that I had to ask. I asked her if she knew the names of the people who had the fire, and she said they were her friends' friends. She finally came up with the name.
The very same name as my step-sister and brother in law.
A perfect stranger, who felt called to help. A stranger who didn't know Teri, Justin or the boys. A stranger who went to Old Navy and purchased clothes for someone they had never met.
Keely and I got in the van, a bit shaken, with goosebumps on our bodies. What are the chances????
I hope that perfect stranger knows she's a perfect person.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
"Uh-Oh, It's UCK!"
I hear "Uh-oh" and "Uck" a lot. As in multiple times a day. As in multiple times an hour. As in over and over and over and over and over.
Thanksgiving morning, Reilly and I were up first and we decided to tackle the chewy pumpkin caramel bars. Part 1 of the process is unwrapping all the caramels. Not a task I love. Reilly enjoyed it though. We had many "extra" caramels that couldn't be used since the nimble hands of a two year old dropped quite a few.
He also sampled some. Ok, he sampled a lot. Sometimes sampling meant licking them and then putting them down. Sometimes sampling meant taking an itty-bitty bit. Sometimes sampling meant putting the whole caramel in his mouth. (This kind of sampling meant I had to stick my fingers in after the whole caramel and take part out.)
We were nearing the end of our unwrapping task, and he had taken yet another bit of the caramel. For some reason, he decided this bite was not worthy of traveling to his stomach. I don't know why.
As he does when he doesn't like the taste, texture or temperature of something, he politely grabbed my hand, opened my palm and placed it under his mouth. He then opened his mouth and tried to let the caramel fall into my hand. This is how it works. I catch it, we discreetly throw it away and we move on. Only this time, it didn't. It stayed and he wasn't happy.
As he was leaning over my hand, trying to let the caramel fall into my palm, he kept saying, "UH-OH, UCK, UH-OH, UCK." As I was trying to hold back from laughing, and his finger was trying to pry the caramel off of his teeth, I am sure we were quite a sight. He struggled for about 45 seconds before I couldn't hold it in any longer, I started laughing, he started crying and I told him to just swallow, which he finally did. All the while, he's still saying, "UH-OH, UCK!"
I'm not sure you know how much I love that silly boy of mine.
Thanksgiving morning, Reilly and I were up first and we decided to tackle the chewy pumpkin caramel bars. Part 1 of the process is unwrapping all the caramels. Not a task I love. Reilly enjoyed it though. We had many "extra" caramels that couldn't be used since the nimble hands of a two year old dropped quite a few.
He also sampled some. Ok, he sampled a lot. Sometimes sampling meant licking them and then putting them down. Sometimes sampling meant taking an itty-bitty bit. Sometimes sampling meant putting the whole caramel in his mouth. (This kind of sampling meant I had to stick my fingers in after the whole caramel and take part out.)
We were nearing the end of our unwrapping task, and he had taken yet another bit of the caramel. For some reason, he decided this bite was not worthy of traveling to his stomach. I don't know why.
As he does when he doesn't like the taste, texture or temperature of something, he politely grabbed my hand, opened my palm and placed it under his mouth. He then opened his mouth and tried to let the caramel fall into my hand. This is how it works. I catch it, we discreetly throw it away and we move on. Only this time, it didn't. It stayed and he wasn't happy.
As he was leaning over my hand, trying to let the caramel fall into my palm, he kept saying, "UH-OH, UCK, UH-OH, UCK." As I was trying to hold back from laughing, and his finger was trying to pry the caramel off of his teeth, I am sure we were quite a sight. He struggled for about 45 seconds before I couldn't hold it in any longer, I started laughing, he started crying and I told him to just swallow, which he finally did. All the while, he's still saying, "UH-OH, UCK!"
I'm not sure you know how much I love that silly boy of mine.
Friday, November 11, 2011
11 things...
It's quickly approaching the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 2011. Therefore, it's 11/11/11. Pretty cool.
Because of this neat-o date, I thought a blog was in order. However, I had nothing earth shattering on my mind that I was dying to share. So...I'm just going to list 11 things on my mind.
1. 4:10 am (which is when I crawled out of bed for the day was a L.O.N.G. time ago.
2. I'm a really lucky girl to be married to my Dave. But, he's even luckier! :)
3. I'm the luckiest girl because the cutest 2 year old calls me MOM.
4. I'm a lil' bit bummed that I didn't win anything at the Paddle Auction tonight.
5. I got another AMAZING gift today from my dear friend Jodi. She made me a pillow, out of one of Reilly's old blankets, that has a turkey on it. The body is made from a footprint of my Rei-Guy and the feathers are his hand prints. PRICELESS.
6. I can think and think and think for hours, and I can't come up with a person who is a luckier daughter, granddaugther, sister, aunt, mommy, wife, step-daughter, cousin or friend because of who I am related to and who I know. My family and friends mean everything to me and I am one lucky girl that they all love me so much.
7. It was disappointing to come home tonight and see that the cleaning fairy got lost on her way here again!
8. I am ready for bed. NOW.
9. I love my job. (most days!)
10. I had to giggle that one of my students asked me what time it was today at 11:11 am. I think it was planned, and I totally fell for it. It made for a fun math class, though.
11. I'm really thankful that I got to enjoy a white hot chocolate this morning.
There you have it, my top 11 thoughts swirling around in my head. And now it's 11:00. Which means I have 11 minutes until it's 11:11 again.
Because of this neat-o date, I thought a blog was in order. However, I had nothing earth shattering on my mind that I was dying to share. So...I'm just going to list 11 things on my mind.
1. 4:10 am (which is when I crawled out of bed for the day was a L.O.N.G. time ago.
2. I'm a really lucky girl to be married to my Dave. But, he's even luckier! :)
3. I'm the luckiest girl because the cutest 2 year old calls me MOM.
4. I'm a lil' bit bummed that I didn't win anything at the Paddle Auction tonight.
5. I got another AMAZING gift today from my dear friend Jodi. She made me a pillow, out of one of Reilly's old blankets, that has a turkey on it. The body is made from a footprint of my Rei-Guy and the feathers are his hand prints. PRICELESS.
6. I can think and think and think for hours, and I can't come up with a person who is a luckier daughter, granddaugther, sister, aunt, mommy, wife, step-daughter, cousin or friend because of who I am related to and who I know. My family and friends mean everything to me and I am one lucky girl that they all love me so much.
7. It was disappointing to come home tonight and see that the cleaning fairy got lost on her way here again!
8. I am ready for bed. NOW.
9. I love my job. (most days!)
10. I had to giggle that one of my students asked me what time it was today at 11:11 am. I think it was planned, and I totally fell for it. It made for a fun math class, though.
11. I'm really thankful that I got to enjoy a white hot chocolate this morning.
There you have it, my top 11 thoughts swirling around in my head. And now it's 11:00. Which means I have 11 minutes until it's 11:11 again.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Home Alone...Sorta...
Two years ago October 27th, my life changed. It was a change that I have never for a second regretted. One that I have thanked God for everyday since then. On that day, I became a Mommy. I hardly remember the days before I was a mommy. It's my job. It's what I love.
For two years, (even more so here recently), I haven't even been able to go to the bathroom alone. I brush my teeth with two eyes watching, I shower with Elmo toys, I make dinner with two "helping hands," I shop with a special "cart pushing helper," everything I do, I have a sidekick. And I love it. (Ok, there are days that I could survive going grocery shopping without a 10 minute visit to see the "ishies," but for the most part...)
Today, I was lucky enough to get to spend the day with Dave, who's on vacation this week. We took Reilly to Ms. Betsy's, went shopping at Wal-Mart, and stopped for breakfast. It was about 8:15 when I started to miss my little man. I mean, really, really miss him. Going to Ms. Betsy's isn't anything new. But every other day that he goes there, I go directly to school, where I am crazy busy for 9 hours before I go back and pick him up. It's not that I don't think of him often when I am at school, but I become a "mom" to a whole new crew of kids that need my full attention, and I'm consumed with their needs. So I'm not sitting at home, staring at his toys without him being there.
After breakfast, we headed home and I was a mommy without a job. It was CRAZY how much I missed that kid. I'm NEVER home without hearing the pitter pat of feet, the giggles, and the toys (Oh, the toys and their noise!) At one point, I started playing with the school bus that sings, "The Wheels On The Bus" because I was missing the noise and smiles that fill my walls.
Although I loved being home with Dave today, and know that we needed the time together, I also found out that I'm not a good Mommy when my little guy is not home with me. I miss him way to much. I spent a good part of the day trying to bring him up in conversation and counting the hours until we could pick him up.
Don't get me wrong, there were plenty of other things to do to keep my busy, (laundry, dishes, sweeping, cleaning, dusting, laundry, straightening up, laundry...) but I just didn't feel that would be quality time off from work! :) Besides, it will still be here this weekend...when thankfully, my little helper will be here to assist!
For two years, (even more so here recently), I haven't even been able to go to the bathroom alone. I brush my teeth with two eyes watching, I shower with Elmo toys, I make dinner with two "helping hands," I shop with a special "cart pushing helper," everything I do, I have a sidekick. And I love it. (Ok, there are days that I could survive going grocery shopping without a 10 minute visit to see the "ishies," but for the most part...)
Today, I was lucky enough to get to spend the day with Dave, who's on vacation this week. We took Reilly to Ms. Betsy's, went shopping at Wal-Mart, and stopped for breakfast. It was about 8:15 when I started to miss my little man. I mean, really, really miss him. Going to Ms. Betsy's isn't anything new. But every other day that he goes there, I go directly to school, where I am crazy busy for 9 hours before I go back and pick him up. It's not that I don't think of him often when I am at school, but I become a "mom" to a whole new crew of kids that need my full attention, and I'm consumed with their needs. So I'm not sitting at home, staring at his toys without him being there.
After breakfast, we headed home and I was a mommy without a job. It was CRAZY how much I missed that kid. I'm NEVER home without hearing the pitter pat of feet, the giggles, and the toys (Oh, the toys and their noise!) At one point, I started playing with the school bus that sings, "The Wheels On The Bus" because I was missing the noise and smiles that fill my walls.
Although I loved being home with Dave today, and know that we needed the time together, I also found out that I'm not a good Mommy when my little guy is not home with me. I miss him way to much. I spent a good part of the day trying to bring him up in conversation and counting the hours until we could pick him up.
Don't get me wrong, there were plenty of other things to do to keep my busy, (laundry, dishes, sweeping, cleaning, dusting, laundry, straightening up, laundry...) but I just didn't feel that would be quality time off from work! :) Besides, it will still be here this weekend...when thankfully, my little helper will be here to assist!
Monday, October 31, 2011
10 Reasons
So...there are some critics out there that feel that the Woods should not have their Christmas tree up yet. And for those of you that didn't know that we had our tree up until you read that first sentence, don't judge. Just breathe. In. Out. In. Out.
Let me explain. Here is my list of 10 reasons why it's October 31st, and our Christmas tree is twinkling away in the corner of the living room.
1. I like having the twinkling lights on instead of a lamp. Simple as that.
2. We live with a 2 year old. He likes to touch. EVERYTHING. This way, we can have plenty of practice learning about looking with our eyes, and not touching with our hands. You'll thank me later if there were any plans to invite us over this Holiday Season.
3. We like to give the neighbors something to talk about.
4. My step kids were here this weekend, which means they help carry things up from the basement, where it is stored.
5. Putting up the Christmas tree brings back some of my favorite memories from when I was a child. Waiting for dad to climb to the attic, put together the tree, string the lights and then we got to decorate.
6. I have now have a good excuse to sing Christmas Carols. LOUDLY.
7. When I want to snack at night, I feel bad for eating in front of the angel on the top of the tree.
8. It's dark at 6:00 pm anyway, we might as well pretend it's the dead of winter and we're enjoying ourselves.
9. This gives Dave extra time to be thinking of my Christmas gifts. It's not like he can forget when he is greeted by the twinkling lights each day.
10. Because I asked, Dave said yes and I wanted to!
There you have it. That's why we already put up our Christmas tree.
Let me explain. Here is my list of 10 reasons why it's October 31st, and our Christmas tree is twinkling away in the corner of the living room.
1. I like having the twinkling lights on instead of a lamp. Simple as that.
2. We live with a 2 year old. He likes to touch. EVERYTHING. This way, we can have plenty of practice learning about looking with our eyes, and not touching with our hands. You'll thank me later if there were any plans to invite us over this Holiday Season.
3. We like to give the neighbors something to talk about.
4. My step kids were here this weekend, which means they help carry things up from the basement, where it is stored.
5. Putting up the Christmas tree brings back some of my favorite memories from when I was a child. Waiting for dad to climb to the attic, put together the tree, string the lights and then we got to decorate.
6. I have now have a good excuse to sing Christmas Carols. LOUDLY.
7. When I want to snack at night, I feel bad for eating in front of the angel on the top of the tree.
8. It's dark at 6:00 pm anyway, we might as well pretend it's the dead of winter and we're enjoying ourselves.
9. This gives Dave extra time to be thinking of my Christmas gifts. It's not like he can forget when he is greeted by the twinkling lights each day.
10. Because I asked, Dave said yes and I wanted to!
There you have it. That's why we already put up our Christmas tree.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Years, Not Months
I knew this day was coming. It doesn't mean I was anymore prepared for it. I knew it would be here before a blink of an eye. And sure enough, here it is.
My precious bundle of joy, coming into the world at just 7lbs, 15 oz, measuring only 21 inches long turned two today. AND I'M NOT SURE I WAS READY FOR IT. I mean, I am so very grateful that God has blessed me with this amazing boy in my life, that we get to celebrate the little things everday. But turning two. Really? Did he have to?
I think I am most hung up on the fact that I now have to start replying, "2 years old" when people ask how old he is. I've heard from a number of people that it may be a bit weird to say 29 months, or 34 months. Ugh...I have to say years. It hurts my heart a little bit. This means my baby is no longer my "baby" (although, future girlfriends of the world, BEWARE, he'll always be my little baby boy!)
I know that October 27th is his birthday, but it's pretty much the day that I recieved the greatest gift God could have given me.
Reilly,
You are the joy of my life and the sparkle in my eye. I am the luckiest mommy in the world because I get to hear you say, "Mom, Mom, MOM" over and over and over again. You have been so much fun to watch as you learn, grow and discover. I treasure your "Squeeze Tight Hugs," your "Super Sloppy Kisses" and when your little hand reaches for mine. I love when we get to snuggle at night, and when I get you up in the morning and make me rub your back for an extra minute or two. You are my everything, and I love you more than I ever thought possible.
Happy 2nd Birthday, Baby Boy!
Mommy
My precious bundle of joy, coming into the world at just 7lbs, 15 oz, measuring only 21 inches long turned two today. AND I'M NOT SURE I WAS READY FOR IT. I mean, I am so very grateful that God has blessed me with this amazing boy in my life, that we get to celebrate the little things everday. But turning two. Really? Did he have to?
I think I am most hung up on the fact that I now have to start replying, "2 years old" when people ask how old he is. I've heard from a number of people that it may be a bit weird to say 29 months, or 34 months. Ugh...I have to say years. It hurts my heart a little bit. This means my baby is no longer my "baby" (although, future girlfriends of the world, BEWARE, he'll always be my little baby boy!)
I know that October 27th is his birthday, but it's pretty much the day that I recieved the greatest gift God could have given me.
Reilly,
You are the joy of my life and the sparkle in my eye. I am the luckiest mommy in the world because I get to hear you say, "Mom, Mom, MOM" over and over and over again. You have been so much fun to watch as you learn, grow and discover. I treasure your "Squeeze Tight Hugs," your "Super Sloppy Kisses" and when your little hand reaches for mine. I love when we get to snuggle at night, and when I get you up in the morning and make me rub your back for an extra minute or two. You are my everything, and I love you more than I ever thought possible.
Happy 2nd Birthday, Baby Boy!
Mommy
Monday, October 3, 2011
The Battle Of The Broccoli
I always leave school with an anxious heart at the end of the day. Praying that my almost-two-year-old has made good choices. I just never know what the report is going to be.
Today, just like normal, I pull up and Ms. Betsy is already laughing. Good Grief! What could this mean???
She can barely contain her giggles to tell me that she doesn't remember the last time a little guy has made her laugh so hard. Super. Can't wait to hear this one.
Evidently they had cheese quesadillas and broccoli for lunch. Reilly can eat his weight in cheese quesadillas, apparently. I probably should have already known this, but I didn't. He blew through his main course and was pushing around his one "tree" of broccoli Ms. Betsy had put on his plate. The older kiddos were already done eating, so she had gotten out the package of Chips Ahoy Cookies.
My little man is a COOKIE MONSTER. So he got very excited to see the chocolate chip goodies come out of the pantry. Ms. Betsy explained to him that he had to finish his broccoli before a cookie could be had.
Insert attitude.
(Remember, she is laughing hysterically as she is telling me this!)
She said he picked up his "tree" of broccoli, put it in his mouth, plopped his chin in his hand and started chewing. All while staring at her, as if to say, "I'll eat it, but I'm not gonna like it." She said she and Mr. Brian busted out laughing and he didn't crack. Chewing with his chin in his hand. The whole time.
So she gave him another piece. Same thing. Chin in hand...attitude and staring. She tried to run and get her camera, but couldn't snap the picture in time.
Ohh...I can't wait. He's not even 2 yet...I'm sure the best is yet to come.
At least he got 2 cookies.
Today, just like normal, I pull up and Ms. Betsy is already laughing. Good Grief! What could this mean???
She can barely contain her giggles to tell me that she doesn't remember the last time a little guy has made her laugh so hard. Super. Can't wait to hear this one.
Evidently they had cheese quesadillas and broccoli for lunch. Reilly can eat his weight in cheese quesadillas, apparently. I probably should have already known this, but I didn't. He blew through his main course and was pushing around his one "tree" of broccoli Ms. Betsy had put on his plate. The older kiddos were already done eating, so she had gotten out the package of Chips Ahoy Cookies.
My little man is a COOKIE MONSTER. So he got very excited to see the chocolate chip goodies come out of the pantry. Ms. Betsy explained to him that he had to finish his broccoli before a cookie could be had.
Insert attitude.
(Remember, she is laughing hysterically as she is telling me this!)
She said he picked up his "tree" of broccoli, put it in his mouth, plopped his chin in his hand and started chewing. All while staring at her, as if to say, "I'll eat it, but I'm not gonna like it." She said she and Mr. Brian busted out laughing and he didn't crack. Chewing with his chin in his hand. The whole time.
So she gave him another piece. Same thing. Chin in hand...attitude and staring. She tried to run and get her camera, but couldn't snap the picture in time.
Ohh...I can't wait. He's not even 2 yet...I'm sure the best is yet to come.
At least he got 2 cookies.
When You're Belly Button Goes Missing...
As usual, after waking Reilly up this morning, we started going through our day. It was no different than any other day. No different at all. Until it came to his belly button. Then it became a day like no other.
While I am getting him dressed each morning, we usually talk about our day and then do something "educational." Sometimes we count, sometimes we sing nursery rhymes, sometimes we sing the ABC's, sometimes we go through body parts. Today was a body part day. Until it came to his belly button.
We went through hair, eyes, nose, mouth, neck, arms and then we got to the belly. For a long time, we had to say, "Do you have a button?" and that would be the only way he would show us his belly. We've moved past that and now we can say "Where is your belly?" and he pats it. Not today. Nope.
We were 90% dressed this morning, only missing socks and shoes when we got to the belly question. Just a reminder that it was 38 degrees this morning, so we weren't wearing short sleeves and shorts. This is thermal onesie and sweatpants weather. So, that's what we wore. Until the belly question. After asking Reilly, "Where is your belly?" he got a very sad look on his face and started to whimper. I thought maybe he had bumped his head or something, so I gave him the once over, saw that he was good to go and repeated the question. "Reilly, show Mommy your belly."
OPEN FLOODGATE!
My poor boy was DISTRAUGHT over the fact that he couldn't find his button. He kept saying "Utton, where at?" and crying. It was a sad sight. He kept trying to push his pants down so he could pull up his shirt. Remember...it's thermal onesie weather. There was no pulling up the shirt. I tried to distract him with socks and shoes (his favorite part of getting dressed) and he wasn't having it. He just kept repeating, "Utton, where at?" Oh. My. Word.
I tried to get him out of his bedroom by telling him to turn off the TV so we could go (that's his chore) but he wasn't having it. All I kept hearing in between sad little sobs was, "Utton, where at?" It was getting hard to bear.
The whole way to Ms. Betsy's, same thing..."Utton, where at?" I figured he'd get distracted and forget about it.
I picked Reilly up and he was wearing sweatpants and a long sleeved shirt. No thermal onesie.
Lesson learned. When you ask the poor child where his belly is, let him find it for Pete's sake,.
While I am getting him dressed each morning, we usually talk about our day and then do something "educational." Sometimes we count, sometimes we sing nursery rhymes, sometimes we sing the ABC's, sometimes we go through body parts. Today was a body part day. Until it came to his belly button.
We went through hair, eyes, nose, mouth, neck, arms and then we got to the belly. For a long time, we had to say, "Do you have a button?" and that would be the only way he would show us his belly. We've moved past that and now we can say "Where is your belly?" and he pats it. Not today. Nope.
We were 90% dressed this morning, only missing socks and shoes when we got to the belly question. Just a reminder that it was 38 degrees this morning, so we weren't wearing short sleeves and shorts. This is thermal onesie and sweatpants weather. So, that's what we wore. Until the belly question. After asking Reilly, "Where is your belly?" he got a very sad look on his face and started to whimper. I thought maybe he had bumped his head or something, so I gave him the once over, saw that he was good to go and repeated the question. "Reilly, show Mommy your belly."
OPEN FLOODGATE!
My poor boy was DISTRAUGHT over the fact that he couldn't find his button. He kept saying "Utton, where at?" and crying. It was a sad sight. He kept trying to push his pants down so he could pull up his shirt. Remember...it's thermal onesie weather. There was no pulling up the shirt. I tried to distract him with socks and shoes (his favorite part of getting dressed) and he wasn't having it. He just kept repeating, "Utton, where at?" Oh. My. Word.
I tried to get him out of his bedroom by telling him to turn off the TV so we could go (that's his chore) but he wasn't having it. All I kept hearing in between sad little sobs was, "Utton, where at?" It was getting hard to bear.
The whole way to Ms. Betsy's, same thing..."Utton, where at?" I figured he'd get distracted and forget about it.
I picked Reilly up and he was wearing sweatpants and a long sleeved shirt. No thermal onesie.
Lesson learned. When you ask the poor child where his belly is, let him find it for Pete's sake,.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
A Fun Fall Day
It's become sort of a tradition. My sisters and I load up the van and take the boys to the Pumpkin Patch. For the past several years, we've always gone to Kercher's in Goshen. It's a nice little patch where there are plenty of apple trees for picking and pumpkins for choosing.
We decided to break tradition a bit this year. We took Glenn with us and were off on a new adventure. I had heard about a place up in Columa, Michigan that was lots of fun. So we loaded up the van, met Dad and Diane on the bypass and we were off!
What a fun fall day we had! It was Glenn, Kim, Brady, Keely, Reilly, Dad, Diane and Me! We went to Jollay Orchard and we had lots of fun! They have everything there! Much more than Kerchers! We got to ride on a Ferris wheel, see a puppet show (we didn't actually sit and watch, but we walked by a couple of times), take hay rides, visit haunted houses, go fishing in a pond, pick apples, choose pumpkins, visit the "old town", learn about bees, feed goats, pigs and ducks and crawl through blow up thingies. It was a really nice change from our regular tradition!
Here are some pictures of our day!
We decided to break tradition a bit this year. We took Glenn with us and were off on a new adventure. I had heard about a place up in Columa, Michigan that was lots of fun. So we loaded up the van, met Dad and Diane on the bypass and we were off!
What a fun fall day we had! It was Glenn, Kim, Brady, Keely, Reilly, Dad, Diane and Me! We went to Jollay Orchard and we had lots of fun! They have everything there! Much more than Kerchers! We got to ride on a Ferris wheel, see a puppet show (we didn't actually sit and watch, but we walked by a couple of times), take hay rides, visit haunted houses, go fishing in a pond, pick apples, choose pumpkins, visit the "old town", learn about bees, feed goats, pigs and ducks and crawl through blow up thingies. It was a really nice change from our regular tradition!
Here are some pictures of our day!
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| Reilly and Grandpa--ready to go! |
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| So excited to be "driving" the tractor |
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| My little man |
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| Brady the Pumpkin |
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| Dad, Diane, and Reilly acting like animals at Jollay Orchards! |
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| These crazy things about came right out the fence to say hello |
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| They just want a little love....and food. |
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| Dad and Diane on the Ferris wheel...that was one chilly ride! |
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| Brady was seeing how high he could swing |
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| Auntie Kim, Brady, Auntie Keely and Rei-Guy on the windy hay ride |
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| The Ornats! |
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| Grandma and Grandpa, with Auntie Keely and the boys |
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| My handsome man |
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| Grandpa and Brady |
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| Reilly had too many choice as to who to sit with, so he just made his rounds while the hay ride was in progress |
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| So many pumpkins... |
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| Umm..this one might be bigger than he is! |
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| Brady found an open pumpkin, so he was "planting" the seeds in new locations |
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| The cutest 6 year old in the world |
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| Say cheese |
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| Ready to pick some apples |
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| Oh, you mean I shouldn't be eating this yet? |
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| Pooped from our fun fall day! |
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Just Waiting For The Call...
They should be calling anytime now. I'm just patiently waiting for the phone to start ringing. I've been busily preparing what to say as soon as they call. I see the phone call going something like this:
Me-"Hello."
Them-"This is _____________ from the Mother Of The Year Award Nominating Committee and we've been trying to get a hold of you all day."
Me-"Oh, yes, I've been expecting you to call." (all while doing an awkward nervous giggle)
Them-"I understand you had a special "Mommy Moment" this morning...is that correct?"
Me-"Yep, sure did."
Them-"Can you tell me about it? "
Me-"Well, it just so happened that in our rush to get out the door this morning, I failed to notice that the world's cutest almost-two-year-old only had one shoe on."
Them-"Oh, I see. And when did you happen to notice that this young man was only wearing one shoe?"
Me-"Well, as I was carefully driving to daycare, I had no idea, so therefore, I didn't notice until I opened the back door in order to get my son out of the van."
Them-"And what exactly happened next?"
Me-"I ripped my van apart all while praying that we hadn't possibly left one shoe at home."
Them-"And then?"
Me-"We went in and explained to Ms. Betsy that we came to daycare with only ONE SHOE ON!
Them-"Congratulations, you've been awarded Mother Of The Year."
Yep. That was our morning. Thank goodness Ms. Betsy loves us and she just laughed. My poor boy was the shoeless wonder at daycare today.
Oh. And I ran over a frog on my way to work, too.
Me-"Hello."
Them-"This is _____________ from the Mother Of The Year Award Nominating Committee and we've been trying to get a hold of you all day."
Me-"Oh, yes, I've been expecting you to call." (all while doing an awkward nervous giggle)
Them-"I understand you had a special "Mommy Moment" this morning...is that correct?"
Me-"Yep, sure did."
Them-"Can you tell me about it? "
Me-"Well, it just so happened that in our rush to get out the door this morning, I failed to notice that the world's cutest almost-two-year-old only had one shoe on."
Them-"Oh, I see. And when did you happen to notice that this young man was only wearing one shoe?"
Me-"Well, as I was carefully driving to daycare, I had no idea, so therefore, I didn't notice until I opened the back door in order to get my son out of the van."
Them-"And what exactly happened next?"
Me-"I ripped my van apart all while praying that we hadn't possibly left one shoe at home."
Them-"And then?"
Me-"We went in and explained to Ms. Betsy that we came to daycare with only ONE SHOE ON!
Them-"Congratulations, you've been awarded Mother Of The Year."
Yep. That was our morning. Thank goodness Ms. Betsy loves us and she just laughed. My poor boy was the shoeless wonder at daycare today.
Oh. And I ran over a frog on my way to work, too.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
64 Years Ago Today...
Two special people said "I Do" and I'm so very glad they did. 64 years ago today, my grandparents became an official team, one that would grow and develop to be the strongest team I know. I'm so very thankful that their paths crossed and they took one another's hand in marriage.
Anyone who knows me, probably already knows that I am the luckiest granddaughter alive because I have the most AMAZING grandparents. These two special people are like no other. They are in their own class, one that I can only dream of being in.
Think of the two most selfless, helpful, graceful, forgiving, loving, kind, and caring people you know. Now, multiply it by a gazillion...you're still not imagining my grandparents. My G'ma and G'pa are the most special people in the world. I am so thankful that they are the head of our family on my mom's side. I'm so thankful that they had my mom and my uncle so that I got to be a part of their lives.
I know that my grandparents are always going to be there for me, they aren't going to ask questions and they are going to love me unconditionally. I would need every person who lives in Indiana to get out their fingers and toes to try to even count the number of times they have been there for me and my family.
I'm so thankful that they get to celebrate 64 years of marriage today. I'm so thankful they are here so that I know what true love is and what to look up to. I'm so thankful for them!
Anyone who knows me, probably already knows that I am the luckiest granddaughter alive because I have the most AMAZING grandparents. These two special people are like no other. They are in their own class, one that I can only dream of being in.
Think of the two most selfless, helpful, graceful, forgiving, loving, kind, and caring people you know. Now, multiply it by a gazillion...you're still not imagining my grandparents. My G'ma and G'pa are the most special people in the world. I am so thankful that they are the head of our family on my mom's side. I'm so thankful that they had my mom and my uncle so that I got to be a part of their lives.
I know that my grandparents are always going to be there for me, they aren't going to ask questions and they are going to love me unconditionally. I would need every person who lives in Indiana to get out their fingers and toes to try to even count the number of times they have been there for me and my family.
I'm so thankful that they get to celebrate 64 years of marriage today. I'm so thankful they are here so that I know what true love is and what to look up to. I'm so thankful for them!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
It's Not Only That I'll Never Forget, But More Like I'll Always Remember
I've alway s been proud to be an American. I've always been thankful for anyone who has served our country and protected our freedom. I think a whole new meaning was given to all of these phrases 10 years ago today.
There are events in your life that you live through, and don't take an extra minute to think about. Then there are those that mark you forever, and no matter what you do, you'll never forget. Maybe because there was extreme happiness attached, or maybe fierce pain, no matter the reason, you just never forget.
Then, there are those events that change you. They just do.
Tuesday, September 11, 2001 was one was of those moments. It's a day you can talk about and almost everyone you speak to gets that look in their eye, and you know that it changed them too. It's something that 90% of us had nothing to do with, but 100% of us will never forget.
I remember like it was yesterday. I was doing my student teaching at Walt Disney Elementary School. We were in a before school meeting and another teacher walked into the meeting and said, "Some idiot just flew a plane into the World Trade Center." I remember there being a nervous bubble of laughter and a lot of shaking heads about the stupidity of it all. The room we were in happened to have a TV, so as we were watching, it wasn't long after that we watched the other tower get struck with yet another plane.
I remember the room turning ice cold, and the silence was deafening. It hit each and everyone of us at that moment that "some idiot" didn't hit the trade center by accident. It was a plan. And it was scary. I'll never forget the 10 or so people in that room just staring at one another. Finally, the principal looked at us and said "We've got kids coming, and they can't know the world is falling apart outside our doors." Something that marked me as a student teacher. Something that I have held onto in all of my teaching career. I knew in that moment, that whatever happened that day, whatever was going on, I had a classroom full of 3rd graders that needed to believe they were safe.
As I went into the classroom, my supervising teacher went into the lounge where the television was telling the story. She came in about every 10 minutes throughout the entire day with updates about what was going on. With every update, she ended saying, "Keep smiling, they're counting on you." Easier said than done.
Never have I been so thankful to send my kids to specials as I was that day. I needed to hear that my brother in law who is a pilot for United was home and safe. After many phone calls to both sisters and other family members, we did discover he was home, so a huge sigh of relief was expelled.
Throughtout the following days, I remember hearing stories, being stuck to the TV and radio, crying for the wounded and praying for the families. I remember it all.
It's funny how things change you. How an event can mark you forever. September 11, 2001 sure did. I'll never forget.
There are events in your life that you live through, and don't take an extra minute to think about. Then there are those that mark you forever, and no matter what you do, you'll never forget. Maybe because there was extreme happiness attached, or maybe fierce pain, no matter the reason, you just never forget.
Then, there are those events that change you. They just do.
Tuesday, September 11, 2001 was one was of those moments. It's a day you can talk about and almost everyone you speak to gets that look in their eye, and you know that it changed them too. It's something that 90% of us had nothing to do with, but 100% of us will never forget.
I remember like it was yesterday. I was doing my student teaching at Walt Disney Elementary School. We were in a before school meeting and another teacher walked into the meeting and said, "Some idiot just flew a plane into the World Trade Center." I remember there being a nervous bubble of laughter and a lot of shaking heads about the stupidity of it all. The room we were in happened to have a TV, so as we were watching, it wasn't long after that we watched the other tower get struck with yet another plane.
I remember the room turning ice cold, and the silence was deafening. It hit each and everyone of us at that moment that "some idiot" didn't hit the trade center by accident. It was a plan. And it was scary. I'll never forget the 10 or so people in that room just staring at one another. Finally, the principal looked at us and said "We've got kids coming, and they can't know the world is falling apart outside our doors." Something that marked me as a student teacher. Something that I have held onto in all of my teaching career. I knew in that moment, that whatever happened that day, whatever was going on, I had a classroom full of 3rd graders that needed to believe they were safe.
As I went into the classroom, my supervising teacher went into the lounge where the television was telling the story. She came in about every 10 minutes throughout the entire day with updates about what was going on. With every update, she ended saying, "Keep smiling, they're counting on you." Easier said than done.
Never have I been so thankful to send my kids to specials as I was that day. I needed to hear that my brother in law who is a pilot for United was home and safe. After many phone calls to both sisters and other family members, we did discover he was home, so a huge sigh of relief was expelled.
Throughtout the following days, I remember hearing stories, being stuck to the TV and radio, crying for the wounded and praying for the families. I remember it all.
It's funny how things change you. How an event can mark you forever. September 11, 2001 sure did. I'll never forget.
"Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning)"
Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?
Were you in the yard with your wife and children
Or working on some stage in L.A.?
Did you stand there in shock at the sight of that black smoke
Risin' against that blue sky?
Did you shout out in anger, in fear for your neighbor
Or did you just sit down and cry?
Did you weep for the children who lost their dear loved ones
And pray for the ones who don't know?
Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble
And sob for the ones left below?
Did you burst out in pride for the red, white and blue
And the heroes who died just doin' what they do?
Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer
And look at yourself and what really matters?
[Chorus:]
I'm just a singer of simple songs
I'm not a real political man
I watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell
you the difference in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith, hope and love are some good things He gave us
And the greatest is love
Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?
Were you teaching a class full of innocent children
Or driving down some cold interstate?
Did you feel guilty 'cause you're a survivor
In a crowded room did you feel alone?
Did you call up your mother and tell her you loved her?
Did you dust off that Bible at home?
Did you open your eyes, hope it never happened
Close your eyes and not go to sleep?
Did you notice the sunset the first time in ages
Or speak to some stranger on the street?
Did you lay down at night and think of tomorrow
Or go out and buy you a gun?
Did you turn off that violent old movie you're watchin'
And turn on "I Love Lucy" reruns?
Did you go to a church and hold hands with some strangers
Did you stand in line and give your own blood?
Did you just stay home and cling tight to your family
Thank God you had somebody to love?
[Repeat Chorus 2x]
And the greatest is love.
And the greatest is love.
Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day?
Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?
Were you in the yard with your wife and children
Or working on some stage in L.A.?
Did you stand there in shock at the sight of that black smoke
Risin' against that blue sky?
Did you shout out in anger, in fear for your neighbor
Or did you just sit down and cry?
Did you weep for the children who lost their dear loved ones
And pray for the ones who don't know?
Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble
And sob for the ones left below?
Did you burst out in pride for the red, white and blue
And the heroes who died just doin' what they do?
Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer
And look at yourself and what really matters?
[Chorus:]
I'm just a singer of simple songs
I'm not a real political man
I watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell
you the difference in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith, hope and love are some good things He gave us
And the greatest is love
Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?
Were you teaching a class full of innocent children
Or driving down some cold interstate?
Did you feel guilty 'cause you're a survivor
In a crowded room did you feel alone?
Did you call up your mother and tell her you loved her?
Did you dust off that Bible at home?
Did you open your eyes, hope it never happened
Close your eyes and not go to sleep?
Did you notice the sunset the first time in ages
Or speak to some stranger on the street?
Did you lay down at night and think of tomorrow
Or go out and buy you a gun?
Did you turn off that violent old movie you're watchin'
And turn on "I Love Lucy" reruns?
Did you go to a church and hold hands with some strangers
Did you stand in line and give your own blood?
Did you just stay home and cling tight to your family
Thank God you had somebody to love?
[Repeat Chorus 2x]
And the greatest is love.
And the greatest is love.
Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day?
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
My Son Exploded In The Hallway!
This post is not for the faint at heart. It's not for the weak stomached. You've been warned.
If you know my family well, you also probably know that Reilly normally has a really hard time pooping. I mean, a REALLY hard time. The entire process usually starts sometime in the morning and isn't productive until shortly after nap time. It's a very loud, very painful ordeal. Even with medicine every morning in his milk. He grunts, groans and cries. He also sits down, no matter what he is doing, so he can grab his knees and scrunch up his face. It breaks my heart every time. He usually times it just about right so we go through the process in a public place. Like a grocery cart or a restaurant as soon as the waiter walks up. It's fantastic.
Well, tonight we were getting ready to get in the shower. Another thing about my son is that he really likes his "naked time." So generally, we get him undressed in the living room, and then he gets to do a couple of naked laps around the house and then runs into the shower. It was no different this time. He got undressed, started his laps and the giggling began.
I went to the bathroom to get the shower ready and saw him in the hallway. All of a sudden, he sat down and groaned. REALLY LOUDLY. I shouted, "No, Reilly, You don't have a diaper on." He stood up and continued his run. On the second time around, he sat down once again, and groaned REALLY LOUDLY. I again shouted, "No buddy!" He didn't move. He was literally 29 inches from the toilet, so I quick grabbed him up (he stayed in what we call the pooping position, knees pulled up, face scrunched) and I whipped him over to the toilet. When I saw whipped him to the toilet, I mean flew him through the air at a high rate of speed.
TOO LATE.
As he was flying through the air, MY SON EXPLODED. More poop than I have ever seen come out of him. GREEN poop. MASSIVE AMOUNTS of poop. SLIMY poop. POOP that splatters on the floor when it lands POOP. So much poop.
As I'm holding him on the toilet (which was unnecessary since he was done) I began to survey the damage. There was a small amount of poop where he was first sitting. There was poop on the hallway closet door, sliming its way to the floor, leaving a nice green streak in its aftermath. There was poop on the bathroom floor. There was poop on the outside of the toilet. So much poop.
Thankfully Dave has a stronger stomach than I do, he was the poop cleaner upper. I was gagging, Dave was scooping poop and Reilly was standing naked in the bathroom screaming, thinking we were mad at him. Dave sent me to the basement to get more paper towel. As I was down there, I hear screaming, then giggling, then screaming again. Then I hear Dave just start laughing. Evidently, Reilly wasn't quite done...he then started peeing all over the floor. AWESOME.
As Dave was cleaning the remaining poop up, he says, "Well, at least we have hard wood floors, this would be really bad on carpet." Yea. At least we have hard wood floors.
If you know my family well, you also probably know that Reilly normally has a really hard time pooping. I mean, a REALLY hard time. The entire process usually starts sometime in the morning and isn't productive until shortly after nap time. It's a very loud, very painful ordeal. Even with medicine every morning in his milk. He grunts, groans and cries. He also sits down, no matter what he is doing, so he can grab his knees and scrunch up his face. It breaks my heart every time. He usually times it just about right so we go through the process in a public place. Like a grocery cart or a restaurant as soon as the waiter walks up. It's fantastic.
Well, tonight we were getting ready to get in the shower. Another thing about my son is that he really likes his "naked time." So generally, we get him undressed in the living room, and then he gets to do a couple of naked laps around the house and then runs into the shower. It was no different this time. He got undressed, started his laps and the giggling began.
I went to the bathroom to get the shower ready and saw him in the hallway. All of a sudden, he sat down and groaned. REALLY LOUDLY. I shouted, "No, Reilly, You don't have a diaper on." He stood up and continued his run. On the second time around, he sat down once again, and groaned REALLY LOUDLY. I again shouted, "No buddy!" He didn't move. He was literally 29 inches from the toilet, so I quick grabbed him up (he stayed in what we call the pooping position, knees pulled up, face scrunched) and I whipped him over to the toilet. When I saw whipped him to the toilet, I mean flew him through the air at a high rate of speed.
TOO LATE.
As he was flying through the air, MY SON EXPLODED. More poop than I have ever seen come out of him. GREEN poop. MASSIVE AMOUNTS of poop. SLIMY poop. POOP that splatters on the floor when it lands POOP. So much poop.
As I'm holding him on the toilet (which was unnecessary since he was done) I began to survey the damage. There was a small amount of poop where he was first sitting. There was poop on the hallway closet door, sliming its way to the floor, leaving a nice green streak in its aftermath. There was poop on the bathroom floor. There was poop on the outside of the toilet. So much poop.
Thankfully Dave has a stronger stomach than I do, he was the poop cleaner upper. I was gagging, Dave was scooping poop and Reilly was standing naked in the bathroom screaming, thinking we were mad at him. Dave sent me to the basement to get more paper towel. As I was down there, I hear screaming, then giggling, then screaming again. Then I hear Dave just start laughing. Evidently, Reilly wasn't quite done...he then started peeing all over the floor. AWESOME.
As Dave was cleaning the remaining poop up, he says, "Well, at least we have hard wood floors, this would be really bad on carpet." Yea. At least we have hard wood floors.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
With A Heavy Heart...
Summer vacation is officially over. I just put my favorite little boy in bed (I know, it's only 6:05 pm...but he is a 12 hour sleeper, and tomorrow begins our early morning routines.), which means our summer days have come to an end, and it breaks my heart.
I remember this day last summer, and it was hard. I never dreamed it would get harder, rather than easier. But I am here to tell you, this summer is 10x harder than last. Reilly and I have have had so much fun this summer. Just the two of us (most of the time) and we've made so many memories.
All weekend, with this time looming, I've been trying to focus on the positive points. And we've had plenty of good times, but they are hard to focus on when my heart is hurting about being seperated tomorrow morning.
Our summer has been filled with busy times, lots of giggling, playing and napping. We've been to the zoo about 4 gazillion times (we even know most of the animal's names!), we've played outside, run through the sprinkler, taken walks, had lunch with friends, went shopping, cuddled in bed and watched the Sprout Channel. We've played trucks and watched for trains, we've chased birds across the yard and swam in his little pool. We've cleaned the house, done laundry, washed dishes and swept. We've visited family members,gone to the beach, gone on boat rides (Rei's first!), swam in lakes and eaten watermelon in our bathing suits.
It makes me sad that tomorrow starts the hustle and bustle of "real" life again, and we often forget to take the time to do these super fun and super special things together. I hope that I can remember to take time each day and just cherish my little man who won't be little forever.
I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher, but now winning the lottery and being a stay at home mom wouldn't be a bad idea, either.
I remember this day last summer, and it was hard. I never dreamed it would get harder, rather than easier. But I am here to tell you, this summer is 10x harder than last. Reilly and I have have had so much fun this summer. Just the two of us (most of the time) and we've made so many memories.
All weekend, with this time looming, I've been trying to focus on the positive points. And we've had plenty of good times, but they are hard to focus on when my heart is hurting about being seperated tomorrow morning.
Our summer has been filled with busy times, lots of giggling, playing and napping. We've been to the zoo about 4 gazillion times (we even know most of the animal's names!), we've played outside, run through the sprinkler, taken walks, had lunch with friends, went shopping, cuddled in bed and watched the Sprout Channel. We've played trucks and watched for trains, we've chased birds across the yard and swam in his little pool. We've cleaned the house, done laundry, washed dishes and swept. We've visited family members,gone to the beach, gone on boat rides (Rei's first!), swam in lakes and eaten watermelon in our bathing suits.
It makes me sad that tomorrow starts the hustle and bustle of "real" life again, and we often forget to take the time to do these super fun and super special things together. I hope that I can remember to take time each day and just cherish my little man who won't be little forever.
I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher, but now winning the lottery and being a stay at home mom wouldn't be a bad idea, either.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Lung Cancer....Perhaps.
Come One, Come All, We're Going To The Bingo Hall! This was the message I got from my dear friend Kendra just the other day. I blew her off. Then she made the proclamation again. So I figured, what the heck, let's give it a try. And I took my sisters.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Kendra. She is one of my very best friends. She challenges me to do new things, some that I am comfortable with, some that I am not. Going to Bingo, was one of those that I was excited about, but oh so very nervous. With good reason, I quickly found out.
We finally made a move for a table, and sat down like maybe we knew what we were doing. We didn't. We just sat there looking around, while everyone was still staring at us. Then, Keely announces she is going to go to the car to get her drink. So...I'm now alone. In a Bingo Hall. With a lot of toothless people staring at me. Let the fingernail biting begin.
Kim finally showed up, fought her way through the haze, choking and sputtering her way to our table and looked as nervous as I felt. 3 newbies. Not a sole talking to us, not a clue what to do.
Finally, Kendra and her crew show up and show us the ropes.
Let the fun begin!
When you pay your money, the not so friendly lady up front hands you this entire pile of craziness that you are supposed to make sense of. There are like 3 gazillion bingo boards that are assembled in packets, some that are flying around solo, small door prize tickets...just a whole pile of Bingo Goodness.
Kendra and Kelsi (being the wise, experienced Bingo players) showed us what to do, answered my thousands of questions and were very patient throughout the entire night.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Kendra. She is one of my very best friends. She challenges me to do new things, some that I am comfortable with, some that I am not. Going to Bingo, was one of those that I was excited about, but oh so very nervous. With good reason, I quickly found out.
We made a plan. Keely was going to come here, change her clothes and we would head to the Bingo Hall to save seats. Kim was going to meet us there, as was Kendra, Kelsi and Jill. A couple of mistakes here. 1. Keely and I should have NEVER been the first to arrive. Evidently, we had "NEWBIE" printed on our foreheads and as soon as we walked into the smoke filled hall, it felt like everyone turned to stare. EVERYONE. So, we just awkwardly stood in the hallway, trying to assess the situation. It was uncomfortable. Very uncomfortable. 2. We should have brought some sort of sword to slice through the smoke in order to find a seat.
We finally made a move for a table, and sat down like maybe we knew what we were doing. We didn't. We just sat there looking around, while everyone was still staring at us. Then, Keely announces she is going to go to the car to get her drink. So...I'm now alone. In a Bingo Hall. With a lot of toothless people staring at me. Let the fingernail biting begin.
Kim finally showed up, fought her way through the haze, choking and sputtering her way to our table and looked as nervous as I felt. 3 newbies. Not a sole talking to us, not a clue what to do.
Finally, Kendra and her crew show up and show us the ropes.
Let the fun begin!
When you pay your money, the not so friendly lady up front hands you this entire pile of craziness that you are supposed to make sense of. There are like 3 gazillion bingo boards that are assembled in packets, some that are flying around solo, small door prize tickets...just a whole pile of Bingo Goodness.
Kendra and Kelsi (being the wise, experienced Bingo players) showed us what to do, answered my thousands of questions and were very patient throughout the entire night.
Who knew that there were about 104 different ways to play Bingo. It's not just your traditional up, down, diagonal and across business anymore. There are things like starbursts, crazy T's, floating 6 packs, postage stamps and picture frames. This information might have excited me if I had time to actually look at any of those types of Bingos to see if I was winning. I was so worried about daubing (we played something like 28 cards for EACH game!) I just kept saying this, over and over. "Kendra, check my cards, Kendra, check my cards." I was totally relying on her to yell Bingo for me if need be.
I knew going with Kendra and the girls was going to be a blast. However, I didn't know that I was going to laugh nearly as much as I did. And, I came home with more than I left with. Always a bonus. Don't get excited, I didn't get to yell Bingo, which was my ultimate goal. But, Kim's ticket got called for a door prize, which we were sure would be free pass for next week. But it was really $50.00. AND...her number was called on the "Good Neighbor" Door Prize, so I GOT $25.00 JUST FOR SITTING NEXT TO HER! Wahoo!
Here are some very valuable lessons I learned in my first Bingo experience.
1. Buttoning your pants at the Bingo Hall is optional.
2. People are SERIOUS when they play Bingo. (There was a lady one table over from us, who I affectionately named BULLDOG, that was overhead shouting such things as, "Your Mama!", "Get the H*** outta here!", "New Caller!" and a whole lotta F bombs.
3. Bingo is not an activity where you can people watch. There are PLENTY of people that draw your attention, but you just don't have time.
4. I think you can only be a super serious Bingo player if you have a Bingo Bag, complete with a whole rainbow of daubers and your good luck charms spread all around you on the table.
5. Don't even consider breathing during the lightening round. It won't happen.
6. You don't have to wear a bra to Bingo.7. Cheering when you win is frowned upon. Unless your name is Arthur. Arthur appreciated our cheering. The rest of the table didn't.
Kendra says if we go two more times, we're officially Bingo Babes and she'll buy us a T-shirt. It might be worth it.
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| The whole night was stressful. Keely has her cards (all for ONE game!) lined up and is ready to go! |
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| I was really glad Jill was as confused as we were. |
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| Kim is not overly happy that I am keeping her from her daubing duties! |
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| Kendra won $50 on some Weasel game that I don't understand. Hooray for her, though! |
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| Kendra is the only one who is truly is happy because she's the only one who knows what's going on! |
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Nice People Make Me Happy!
The title says it all. Nice people simply make me happy. Unfortunately, in today's society, it often seems as though the nice people aren't nearly as frequently come across as those who are mean or pessimistic.
Dave and I have decided that we must be doing something right these days, because we've had two of the best encounters with strangers in the past 24 hours. It makes me smile.
It all started last night.
Dave called me from work, (on someone else's phone) during the day yesterday, to tell me that he had dropped his phone and it was no longer working. Ugh. We DO NOT have money to replace an iphone was my first thought. Then he lays it on me that he tried to "fix" it himself, so therefore had voided the warranty. FANTASTIC. He got home last night, and we had some other running around to do, and when we were done, we went to AT&T before heading home. Just as we had imagined, they could do nothing for less than $300 to help us out. Double Ugh! James, the very nice employee at the store encouraged us to go home and call the customer service number before canceling the service, which was Dave's other option.
Although, that would have cost us $265, so we wouldn't have saved much. Well, the suggestion to call customer service didn't fall on open ears, as I would often rather chew off my right arm than deal with them. He also suggested that we go visit the Apple Store in the mall, to see if there was anything they could do.
After leaving the store VERY defeated, with no hope, we checked in with Auntie Kim and Brady who were keeping Rei-Guy, and wandered down to the Apple Store. We had to make an appointment with one of the techs, and had to wait around for another 25 minutes.
Robert called Dave's name, and we walked up to the counter, as though our feet were stuck in quicksand. Robert asked what happened, Dave explained, and with no question, Robert GAVE DAVE ANOTHER PHONE. FOR FREE! Robert is amazing. It was supposed to be a $200 fix according to the signs in the store. He didn't even ask any questions. Just gave him a new one. I'm guessing my hoop of joy could be heard at Penny's. Just goes to show you, nice people, like Robert, do exist.
Then....today rolled around. Reilly and I were out in the sun at the fair most of the day, and Dave was in the hot shop, so neither of us felt like making a big dinner, but were both hungry. I had recently cut out a coupon for Outback Steakhouse from the paper, and also had a gift card from one of my generous families at school. So we decided to load up the car, and head to dinner.
I'm going into insert right here, that taking Reilly into restaurants is NOT EVEN CLOSE TO BEING A GOOD EXPERIENCE RIGHT NOW, but we put on our smiles and hoped for the best.
So we get seated, in a booth, so Reilly didn't have to be tortured, err, put into a highchair, and he could just stand or sit next to me. We were sitting there, after having ordered, and Reilly had picked up the salt shaker and put it on the table rather harshly. Here's what happened next.
I see an older gentleman get up from his booth, which was two down from ours and walk our way. In my mind, I'm thinking, "Oh no, oh no, oh no. It was only one time and Dave has already taken the salt shaker away."
O.G. "Excuse me, can I ask you folks a question?"
Dave "Sure"
O.G. "Would you like to share our Awesome Blossom Onion?"
Dave (who is looking at me like this man has just asked for a million dollars) "Excuse me?"
O.G. "Well, we ordered it, and just saw another one come out of the kitchen, and they are huge, so we're just going to tell our waitress to cut it in half if you will eat it. We know we won't be able to, and it will go to waste. Will you please enjoy it?"
Dave "Um, ok. Thank you very much, we would love to."
I'm just sitting there staring at the man, wondering if he was for real.
So the waitress brings out the onion, they explain what they want to happen, she takes it back into the kitchen, cuts it in half and brings us both a plate. Seriously? Is this really happening?
So we enjoy our onion, and our meals come, all while Reilly is throwing everything he can get his little hands on, had been in 2 time outs, which required him to stare at the wall and was screaming like we were beating him. Dining out has really become a challenge to see just how fast we can eat without choking and getting out of the restaurant before we are asked to leave.
Dave finished first and took Reilly outside and I waited for the bill. As I was waiting for our bill, I noticed the older gentleman and his wife were also paying. I asked the waitress how much the onion was so I could pay for it, and she replied, "Well, that gentleman thought you might try, so he kindly requested that I refuse to answer you." Ok, so that didn't work.
I paid and got up to leave. I walked over to their table to thank them again, and offered to give them money towards the onion and both REFUSED to even think about taking any of my cash. His wife kept insisting that it was going to go to waste and they would have rather someone enjoyed it than do that. We ended up walking towards the door together and I kept thanking them over and over.
Before leaving, the sweet old man reached over and grabbed my arm and this is what he said. "Honey, I know that you and your husband were frustrated with your son, but you should know that he didn't bother a single person in there, and if he did, then they should have gotten up to leave. Don't ever be embarrassed by that sweet little boy, we thought he was adorable." I'm not sure anything could have meant more to me in that moment.
I don't know what we're doing right these days to deserve the kindness that has been showered upon us these past two days, but I pray we keep doing it. I pray even harder that someone, someday, will be writing about the kindness I have showed them. I've had two great examples in the last 24 hours to learn from.
Dave and I have decided that we must be doing something right these days, because we've had two of the best encounters with strangers in the past 24 hours. It makes me smile.
It all started last night.
Dave called me from work, (on someone else's phone) during the day yesterday, to tell me that he had dropped his phone and it was no longer working. Ugh. We DO NOT have money to replace an iphone was my first thought. Then he lays it on me that he tried to "fix" it himself, so therefore had voided the warranty. FANTASTIC. He got home last night, and we had some other running around to do, and when we were done, we went to AT&T before heading home. Just as we had imagined, they could do nothing for less than $300 to help us out. Double Ugh! James, the very nice employee at the store encouraged us to go home and call the customer service number before canceling the service, which was Dave's other option.
Although, that would have cost us $265, so we wouldn't have saved much. Well, the suggestion to call customer service didn't fall on open ears, as I would often rather chew off my right arm than deal with them. He also suggested that we go visit the Apple Store in the mall, to see if there was anything they could do.
After leaving the store VERY defeated, with no hope, we checked in with Auntie Kim and Brady who were keeping Rei-Guy, and wandered down to the Apple Store. We had to make an appointment with one of the techs, and had to wait around for another 25 minutes.
Robert called Dave's name, and we walked up to the counter, as though our feet were stuck in quicksand. Robert asked what happened, Dave explained, and with no question, Robert GAVE DAVE ANOTHER PHONE. FOR FREE! Robert is amazing. It was supposed to be a $200 fix according to the signs in the store. He didn't even ask any questions. Just gave him a new one. I'm guessing my hoop of joy could be heard at Penny's. Just goes to show you, nice people, like Robert, do exist.
Then....today rolled around. Reilly and I were out in the sun at the fair most of the day, and Dave was in the hot shop, so neither of us felt like making a big dinner, but were both hungry. I had recently cut out a coupon for Outback Steakhouse from the paper, and also had a gift card from one of my generous families at school. So we decided to load up the car, and head to dinner.
I'm going into insert right here, that taking Reilly into restaurants is NOT EVEN CLOSE TO BEING A GOOD EXPERIENCE RIGHT NOW, but we put on our smiles and hoped for the best.
So we get seated, in a booth, so Reilly didn't have to be tortured, err, put into a highchair, and he could just stand or sit next to me. We were sitting there, after having ordered, and Reilly had picked up the salt shaker and put it on the table rather harshly. Here's what happened next.
I see an older gentleman get up from his booth, which was two down from ours and walk our way. In my mind, I'm thinking, "Oh no, oh no, oh no. It was only one time and Dave has already taken the salt shaker away."
O.G. "Excuse me, can I ask you folks a question?"
Dave "Sure"
O.G. "Would you like to share our Awesome Blossom Onion?"
Dave (who is looking at me like this man has just asked for a million dollars) "Excuse me?"
O.G. "Well, we ordered it, and just saw another one come out of the kitchen, and they are huge, so we're just going to tell our waitress to cut it in half if you will eat it. We know we won't be able to, and it will go to waste. Will you please enjoy it?"
Dave "Um, ok. Thank you very much, we would love to."
I'm just sitting there staring at the man, wondering if he was for real.
So the waitress brings out the onion, they explain what they want to happen, she takes it back into the kitchen, cuts it in half and brings us both a plate. Seriously? Is this really happening?
So we enjoy our onion, and our meals come, all while Reilly is throwing everything he can get his little hands on, had been in 2 time outs, which required him to stare at the wall and was screaming like we were beating him. Dining out has really become a challenge to see just how fast we can eat without choking and getting out of the restaurant before we are asked to leave.
Dave finished first and took Reilly outside and I waited for the bill. As I was waiting for our bill, I noticed the older gentleman and his wife were also paying. I asked the waitress how much the onion was so I could pay for it, and she replied, "Well, that gentleman thought you might try, so he kindly requested that I refuse to answer you." Ok, so that didn't work.
I paid and got up to leave. I walked over to their table to thank them again, and offered to give them money towards the onion and both REFUSED to even think about taking any of my cash. His wife kept insisting that it was going to go to waste and they would have rather someone enjoyed it than do that. We ended up walking towards the door together and I kept thanking them over and over.
Before leaving, the sweet old man reached over and grabbed my arm and this is what he said. "Honey, I know that you and your husband were frustrated with your son, but you should know that he didn't bother a single person in there, and if he did, then they should have gotten up to leave. Don't ever be embarrassed by that sweet little boy, we thought he was adorable." I'm not sure anything could have meant more to me in that moment.
I don't know what we're doing right these days to deserve the kindness that has been showered upon us these past two days, but I pray we keep doing it. I pray even harder that someone, someday, will be writing about the kindness I have showed them. I've had two great examples in the last 24 hours to learn from.
I HEART Summertime!
I love, love, love summertime. Staying up late, sleeping in (well, not really...), taking naps, swimming, playing outside, cookouts, everything about it, I simply love summer. The single most important thing that I love the most, is getting to hang out with the most precious little boy ever.
I have been taught many lessons in the weeks that we have been home together.
1. We are ALWAYS on the go. If we're not, we're either napping or getting into A LOT of trouble.
2. I am simply exhausted by 9:00 pm and fighting to stay awake, even if I've had a nap. See #1 for the reason.
3. The extra time that we get to spend as a family, or with my sisters is priceless.
4. I have the coolest kid ever.
Here are some pictures, in no particular order, of what we've been doing so far this summer.
I have been taught many lessons in the weeks that we have been home together.
1. We are ALWAYS on the go. If we're not, we're either napping or getting into A LOT of trouble.
2. I am simply exhausted by 9:00 pm and fighting to stay awake, even if I've had a nap. See #1 for the reason.
3. The extra time that we get to spend as a family, or with my sisters is priceless.
4. I have the coolest kid ever.
Here are some pictures, in no particular order, of what we've been doing so far this summer.
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| We have spent A LOT of time at the zoo! |
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| Hooray for getting to run through the sprinkler! |
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| Hanging out at Silver Beach! |
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| Whew! He loves his Cozy, CRAZY Coup! |
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| Sometimes, we just take naps wherever we land. |
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| Hanging out at the zoo with Brady! |
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| Doing a little mowing with Aunt Keely. Afterall, summer isn't ALL about playing... |
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| We often play at the mall on rainy days...this time we got to meet Baby Ryan up there! |
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| Hanging with Aunt Keely at Summerfest in Mishawaka. |
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| I think there were some serious negotiotions going on regarding getting into the pool! |
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Thoughts From A Garage Sale
Who doesn't need a little extra cash every now and then? I certainly do. This is the reason I decided to have and help out at a garage sale...err...make that a couple of garage sales over the past 2 weeks. Before you read any further, you should know, I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE garage sales. I think going garage sale-ing is one of the highlights of summertime. I just love it. So why not partake in the festivities, right? Well...
As I was driving into our neighborhood a couple of weeks ago, I saw a sign that said our neighborhood would be having their annual garage sales that same weekend. It is beyond me why not a single person could pass out flyers or something...it's just by chance that you see the sign and have time to throw some tables up and price some goodies. But, we made it happen.
Both sisters and brother in laws brought some stuff over and we were able to fill 6 tables and both edges of the driveway. It was a pretty impressive spread if I do say so myself. I was ready to make some money and go shoppin. W E L L...things didn't exactly go as planned. We had about 17 TOTAL customers in 2 days. It was PATHETIC. Thankfully the weather was good and we didn't cancel any other plans to make it happen. Because it was a total bust. All in all, I made less than $30...in two days. Needless to say, I'm not sure we will be participating in next year's sale!
The following week, we had another (the original) sale planned at my sister's in laws house. We've always had amazing success at their house because they live on a busy road and get lots of traffic. My hopes were once again high.
The sale went from 12:00 on Wednesday (I think our first customer was there by 10) until 6:00 Friday (We packed up at 4!) Wednesday proved to be no different than years past...lots of people, lots of deals, lots of sights and lots of money. Thursday and Friday were slow and COLD, but it was nice to hang out and be outside (even if we were all in jammies that were for sale because it was the only warm clothes we had!)
All in all, the second garage sale went better than the one at my house. But, not unlike any other year, I've learned some things from sitting outside and letting other people shop for my stuff...here's my list...
*For some people, $2.00 is WAY to much to pay for a nearly brand new hand mixer. When my sister told her the price, she dropped it like it was on fire and nearly sprinted off my property.
*No matter how many times you try to fold the clothes on the tables and make it look nice, you won't win the battle.
*I should not fall for people telling me they want the $2.00 DVD (with the wrapper still on) for $1.50 because that is all they have. Then watch them turn around and go to the truck to get the money for an $8.00 blender. Mean ol' rat!
*People are not afraid to go through unpacked boxes, even though they are at your sale 2 hours before you have advertised being open.
*There are still really nice people in the world...they will give money to the world's cutest 6 year old's squirt gun fund even if they don't want the water or popcorn he was selling.
*People are brave enough to knock on your door at 8am in the morning, when your garage is closed and your sale is not opening until noon.
*If you price something at $.01, someone will still ask if you will go any lower.
And my favorite...
*Some old lady will show up at your sale, tell you she wants the entire box of FREE hangers and then ask you to take them to her trunk for her.
Here's to another year of garage sales. I think I've figured out, I'm a much better shopper than I am a seller.
As I was driving into our neighborhood a couple of weeks ago, I saw a sign that said our neighborhood would be having their annual garage sales that same weekend. It is beyond me why not a single person could pass out flyers or something...it's just by chance that you see the sign and have time to throw some tables up and price some goodies. But, we made it happen.
Both sisters and brother in laws brought some stuff over and we were able to fill 6 tables and both edges of the driveway. It was a pretty impressive spread if I do say so myself. I was ready to make some money and go shoppin. W E L L...things didn't exactly go as planned. We had about 17 TOTAL customers in 2 days. It was PATHETIC. Thankfully the weather was good and we didn't cancel any other plans to make it happen. Because it was a total bust. All in all, I made less than $30...in two days. Needless to say, I'm not sure we will be participating in next year's sale!
The following week, we had another (the original) sale planned at my sister's in laws house. We've always had amazing success at their house because they live on a busy road and get lots of traffic. My hopes were once again high.
The sale went from 12:00 on Wednesday (I think our first customer was there by 10) until 6:00 Friday (We packed up at 4!) Wednesday proved to be no different than years past...lots of people, lots of deals, lots of sights and lots of money. Thursday and Friday were slow and COLD, but it was nice to hang out and be outside (even if we were all in jammies that were for sale because it was the only warm clothes we had!)
All in all, the second garage sale went better than the one at my house. But, not unlike any other year, I've learned some things from sitting outside and letting other people shop for my stuff...here's my list...
*For some people, $2.00 is WAY to much to pay for a nearly brand new hand mixer. When my sister told her the price, she dropped it like it was on fire and nearly sprinted off my property.
*No matter how many times you try to fold the clothes on the tables and make it look nice, you won't win the battle.
*I should not fall for people telling me they want the $2.00 DVD (with the wrapper still on) for $1.50 because that is all they have. Then watch them turn around and go to the truck to get the money for an $8.00 blender. Mean ol' rat!
*People are not afraid to go through unpacked boxes, even though they are at your sale 2 hours before you have advertised being open.
*There are still really nice people in the world...they will give money to the world's cutest 6 year old's squirt gun fund even if they don't want the water or popcorn he was selling.
*People are brave enough to knock on your door at 8am in the morning, when your garage is closed and your sale is not opening until noon.
*If you price something at $.01, someone will still ask if you will go any lower.
And my favorite...
*Some old lady will show up at your sale, tell you she wants the entire box of FREE hangers and then ask you to take them to her trunk for her.
Here's to another year of garage sales. I think I've figured out, I'm a much better shopper than I am a seller.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Let Them Fall
Sometimes, life lessons show up in the most unexpected places. Today was one of those days. And it was in our very own backyard.
Reilly and I went out back this morning to enjoy some time in the pool before the sun was blazing and our events for the day got started. This was our first time in the pool, so I climbed in with Reilly and sat near as he was playing happily with his buckets and shovels. I happened to glance towards the bird nest that is up against the back of the house and saw the four very hungry baby birds with their beaks pointed toward the sky waiting for mama robin to return with breakfast, I suppose.
As I was keeping a close eye on Reilly, and also facinated with the baby birds, I watched mama return and nudge one of the babies towards the edge of the nest. I immediately starting saying, "No, no, no" to the bird, as if it could speak Kori. A glance back at Reilly assured me he was still happily dumping water down his belly out of his favorite purple bucket. I continued my study of the birds, and looked back in time to watch mama bird PUSH THE BABY RIGHT OFF THE LEDGE.
My heart was torn...do I grab a happy, squealing, having fun in the sun baby, and run and rescue the bird, whom I thought for sure was going to be injured or dead or just chalk it up as one less robin in the world and believe there must have been a reason that the mama shoved it out of the nest.
Mom instincts took over, and I remained in the pool, Reilly non the wiser. I did however, stand up to see if I could spy the baby on the ground. Sure enough, I began to see a "bounce, bounce" through the somewhat tall grass, with another robin nearby. Mama stayed in the nest with the other three, watching closely from her "bird's eye view!" (HA!)
For the next 35 minutes, I watched that baby bird explore the grass, the trees and the fence. It was bouncing all over the yard, taking very small flights, all under the careful supervision of another robin, (maybe daddy robin???)
As odd as it was to sit and watch this bird, (and birds aren't usually my thing!) I began to think. Sometimes, I just need to let Reilly fall. There could be a whole world of exploration awaiting for him when he hits the ground.
I think it is every parent's instinct to walk closely, protect, defend, pick up, and hold their little ones close to keep them upright and safe. But maybe, just maybe, they need to fall once in a while. Maybe we just need to be close enough to give a kiss if they don't land gently...
What would have happened if the mama robin didn't push this little guy out of the nest...would it have left on it's own? I have a new goal this summer...I'm going to let Reilly fall (at least once!), I'll just make sure I've put pillows down first! :)
Reilly and I went out back this morning to enjoy some time in the pool before the sun was blazing and our events for the day got started. This was our first time in the pool, so I climbed in with Reilly and sat near as he was playing happily with his buckets and shovels. I happened to glance towards the bird nest that is up against the back of the house and saw the four very hungry baby birds with their beaks pointed toward the sky waiting for mama robin to return with breakfast, I suppose.
As I was keeping a close eye on Reilly, and also facinated with the baby birds, I watched mama return and nudge one of the babies towards the edge of the nest. I immediately starting saying, "No, no, no" to the bird, as if it could speak Kori. A glance back at Reilly assured me he was still happily dumping water down his belly out of his favorite purple bucket. I continued my study of the birds, and looked back in time to watch mama bird PUSH THE BABY RIGHT OFF THE LEDGE.
My heart was torn...do I grab a happy, squealing, having fun in the sun baby, and run and rescue the bird, whom I thought for sure was going to be injured or dead or just chalk it up as one less robin in the world and believe there must have been a reason that the mama shoved it out of the nest.
Mom instincts took over, and I remained in the pool, Reilly non the wiser. I did however, stand up to see if I could spy the baby on the ground. Sure enough, I began to see a "bounce, bounce" through the somewhat tall grass, with another robin nearby. Mama stayed in the nest with the other three, watching closely from her "bird's eye view!" (HA!)
For the next 35 minutes, I watched that baby bird explore the grass, the trees and the fence. It was bouncing all over the yard, taking very small flights, all under the careful supervision of another robin, (maybe daddy robin???)
As odd as it was to sit and watch this bird, (and birds aren't usually my thing!) I began to think. Sometimes, I just need to let Reilly fall. There could be a whole world of exploration awaiting for him when he hits the ground.
I think it is every parent's instinct to walk closely, protect, defend, pick up, and hold their little ones close to keep them upright and safe. But maybe, just maybe, they need to fall once in a while. Maybe we just need to be close enough to give a kiss if they don't land gently...
What would have happened if the mama robin didn't push this little guy out of the nest...would it have left on it's own? I have a new goal this summer...I'm going to let Reilly fall (at least once!), I'll just make sure I've put pillows down first! :)
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
What's A Hoosier?
I received this a while back in an email...and it's all so very true.
For those of you who are Hoosiers, this is so accurate it hurts. I mean really hurts!!! To those of you who are displaced Hoosiers, you may get homesick.
Know the State casserole. The state casserole consists of canned green beans, Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup, and dried onions. You can safely take this casserole to any social event and know that you will be accepted.
Get used to food festivals. The Indiana General Assembly, in an effort to grow bigger athletes, passed legislation years ago requiring every incorporated community to have at least one festival per year dedicated to a high-fat food. It is your duty as a Hoosier in fact to attend these festivals and buy at least one elephant ear.
The Weather. Speaking of Indiana weather is… wear layers or die. The thing to remember about Indiana seasons is that they can occur at anytime. We have spring-like days in January and wintry weekends in October. April is capable of providing a sampling of all four seasons in a single
24-hour period. For these reasons, Indiana is the Layering Capital of the World.
Don't take Indiana place names literally If a town has the same name as a foreign city --- Valparaiso and Versailles, for example --- you must not pronounce them the way the foreigners do lest you come under suspicion as a spy. Also, East Enterprise has no counterpart on the west side of the state. South Bend is in the north. North Putnam is in the south and French Lick isn't what you think either.
You gotta know sports In order to talk sports with obsessive fans in Indiana , you have to be knowledgeable on the three levels -- professional, college and high school.
Botany is easy There are only seven kinds of plants in Indiana: corn, wheat, soybeans, grass, trees, flowers, and weeds. Everything falls into one or another of these categories.
YOU KNOW YOU'RE FROM INDIANA WHEN..
§ You think the state Bird is Larry.
§ You can say 'French Lick' without laughing out loud.
§ There's actually a college near you named ' Ball State.’
§ You know Batesville is the casket-making capital of the world and you're proud of it.
§ You could never figure out spring forward-fall back, so still think you should just ignore Daylight Savings Time!
§ You know several people who have hit a deer.
§ Down south to you means Kentucky.
§ You have no problem spelling or pronouncing Terre Haute ...
§ Your school classes were canceled because of cold.
§ Your school classes were canceled because of heat.
§ You know what the phrase 'knee-high by the Fourth of July' means.
§ You've heard of Euchre, you know how to play Euchre, and you are a master of Euchre..
§ You've seen a running car, with nobody in it, in the parking lot of the grocery store, no matter what time of year it is.
§ Detasseling was your first job. Bailing hay, you’re second.
§ Or you could stack hay, swim in the pond to get clean and then have the strength to play a couple of games of hoops, all in the same barn lot on the same day.
§ You say things like catty corner and know what it means.
§ You install security lights on your house and garage, and then leave them both unlocked
§ You carry jumper cables in your car regularly.
§ You drink pop. You catch frogs at the crick. If you want someone to hear you, you holler at 'em.
§ You know that baling wire was the predecessor to duct tape.
§ You know that strangers are the only ones who come to your front door.
§ Kids and dogs ride in the passenger seats of cars and the backs of pickups.
§ You think nothing of driving on the roads and being stuck behind a farm implement in spring and fall. You just hope it's not a hog truck or a manure spreader.
§ High school basketball games draw bigger crowds on the weekend than movie theaters, IF you have a movie theater.
§ Driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow.
§ The local paper covers national and international headlines on one page but requires six for local sports.
§ You can repeat the scores of the last eight NBA games, but unless the MVP is a Hoosier, you are not sure who he is.
§ You can see at least two basketball hoops from your yard.
§ You can name Bobby Knight's exploits over the last few years.
§ The biggest question of your youth was IU or Purdue.
§ Indianapolis is the BIG CITY.
§ Getting stuck by a train is a legitimate excuse for being late to school or work.
§ Everyone knows who the town cops are, where they live, and whether they're at home or on duty.
§ You've been to the Covered Bridge Festival. And you took back roads to get there.
§ To you, tenderloin is not an expensive cut of beef, but a big, salty, breaded, & fried piece of pork served on a bun with a pickle.
§ You end your sentences with prepositions, as in 'Where's it at?' or 'Where's he going to?'
GUIDELINES FOR UNDERSTANDING 'THE HOOSIER CULTURE'
For those of you who are Hoosiers, this is so accurate it hurts. I mean really hurts!!! To those of you who are displaced Hoosiers, you may get homesick.
Know the State casserole. The state casserole consists of canned green beans, Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup, and dried onions. You can safely take this casserole to any social event and know that you will be accepted.
Get used to food festivals. The Indiana General Assembly, in an effort to grow bigger athletes, passed legislation years ago requiring every incorporated community to have at least one festival per year dedicated to a high-fat food. It is your duty as a Hoosier in fact to attend these festivals and buy at least one elephant ear.
The Weather. Speaking of Indiana weather is… wear layers or die. The thing to remember about Indiana seasons is that they can occur at anytime. We have spring-like days in January and wintry weekends in October. April is capable of providing a sampling of all four seasons in a single
24-hour period. For these reasons, Indiana is the Layering Capital of the World.
Don't take Indiana place names literally If a town has the same name as a foreign city --- Valparaiso and Versailles, for example --- you must not pronounce them the way the foreigners do lest you come under suspicion as a spy. Also, East Enterprise has no counterpart on the west side of the state. South Bend is in the north. North Putnam is in the south and French Lick isn't what you think either.
You gotta know sports In order to talk sports with obsessive fans in Indiana , you have to be knowledgeable on the three levels -- professional, college and high school.
Botany is easy There are only seven kinds of plants in Indiana: corn, wheat, soybeans, grass, trees, flowers, and weeds. Everything falls into one or another of these categories.
YOU KNOW YOU'RE FROM INDIANA WHEN..
§ You think the state Bird is Larry.
§ You can say 'French Lick' without laughing out loud.
§ There's actually a college near you named ' Ball State.’
§ You know Batesville is the casket-making capital of the world and you're proud of it.
§ You could never figure out spring forward-fall back, so still think you should just ignore Daylight Savings Time!
§ You know several people who have hit a deer.
§ Down south to you means Kentucky.
§ You have no problem spelling or pronouncing Terre Haute ...
§ Your school classes were canceled because of cold.
§ Your school classes were canceled because of heat.
§ You know what the phrase 'knee-high by the Fourth of July' means.
§ You've heard of Euchre, you know how to play Euchre, and you are a master of Euchre..
§ You've seen a running car, with nobody in it, in the parking lot of the grocery store, no matter what time of year it is.
§ Detasseling was your first job. Bailing hay, you’re second.
§ Or you could stack hay, swim in the pond to get clean and then have the strength to play a couple of games of hoops, all in the same barn lot on the same day.
§ You say things like catty corner and know what it means.
§ You install security lights on your house and garage, and then leave them both unlocked
§ You carry jumper cables in your car regularly.
§ You drink pop. You catch frogs at the crick. If you want someone to hear you, you holler at 'em.
§ You know that baling wire was the predecessor to duct tape.
§ You know that strangers are the only ones who come to your front door.
§ Kids and dogs ride in the passenger seats of cars and the backs of pickups.
§ You think nothing of driving on the roads and being stuck behind a farm implement in spring and fall. You just hope it's not a hog truck or a manure spreader.
§ High school basketball games draw bigger crowds on the weekend than movie theaters, IF you have a movie theater.
§ Driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow.
§ The local paper covers national and international headlines on one page but requires six for local sports.
§ You can repeat the scores of the last eight NBA games, but unless the MVP is a Hoosier, you are not sure who he is.
§ You can see at least two basketball hoops from your yard.
§ You can name Bobby Knight's exploits over the last few years.
§ The biggest question of your youth was IU or Purdue.
§ Indianapolis is the BIG CITY.
§ Getting stuck by a train is a legitimate excuse for being late to school or work.
§ Everyone knows who the town cops are, where they live, and whether they're at home or on duty.
§ You've been to the Covered Bridge Festival. And you took back roads to get there.
§ To you, tenderloin is not an expensive cut of beef, but a big, salty, breaded, & fried piece of pork served on a bun with a pickle.
§ You end your sentences with prepositions, as in 'Where's it at?' or 'Where's he going to?'
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