I know that I keep promising posts... and I really am working on some. I just really haven't had time to finalize them. They are coming though! ;)
Until then, I have to tell you that I just registered to run in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Lexington on October 15. It is a 5K and I just could not be more excited about running it, for a lot of reasons. For one, it means that I'm actually going to run, which has been completely hit and miss lately. I don't have any goals of making record time... I even considered doing it without the chip-timer, just so I could enjoy the run without pressuring myself to go faster. :) I didn't do that... but it did cross my mind.
Of course, the more obvious reason that I'm excited about it is because of the cause. In case you don't know, my mom is a breast cancer survivor. She isn't even 50 yet... and she has survived breast cancer. I thank God daily that she is alive and pray almost daily that it doesn't come back into our lives through her, myself, or my daughter (among my other female family members).
When I made my life list a little more than a year ago, I listed "Raising money for breast cancer research/awareness." I won't mark it off until I've raised a considerable amount (probably $5,000 or so), but I have to start some place! So, I'm asking all of you who feel compelled to visit my personal fundraising page and make a gift. It doesn't have to be a large gift... a gift of any size will help! And, please share this with your friends and family, too.
Breast cancer impacts the lives of everyone... let's join together and find a cure!
And to sweeten the pot, there will be a drawing for a giveaway! If you donate to Susan G. Komen on my page prior to October 15, you will be entered to win a $25 Visa Gift Card! So, even if you donate a small amount, you have a chance of getting your money back! Winner will be announced on October 15 after the race!
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Sensitive
Monday, September 12, 2011
I procrastinate occasionally... like when I have a blog post almost complete and then decide that I really don't like a big section of it... and then instead of just re-writing it or working on it, I decide I want to do an entirely new post.
Tonight is that night. Aren't you lucky?
I remembered a story that I wanted to blog a while back... and never did. Or did I? Maybe I did and can't find it or recall it.
Either way, it was a story that I love because it shows the sensitivity of my little baby boy... at the sweet age of 4.
We were at the movie theater to see Kung Fu Panda 2. The kids and I had met Brad at the dollar theater to see it after work one day this summer. I really enjoyed the first Kung Fu Panda, so I was probably as happy as the kids to go and watch it. I had no idea that my little man would end up in tears.
Spoiler alert... if you don't want to know part of the movie, then don't read any further. :)
About two-thirds of the way through the movie, Kung Fu Panda (Po) remembers a day from his childhood when his mother left him in a basket to save him from being harmed or killed by the enemy. It was a very visually dramatic part of the movie, where both the mother and the baby are sad and the baby is reaching for his mother from the basket. As you can imagine, it was very sad. That's when Jake turns around to look up at me from his position on my lap (he sits there to see over the seats in front of him, supposedly, but I think it's really because he just loves being cuddled up). Jake has big tears in his eyes and is puckering up the saddest little lip. He whispers, "His mommy left him." That's when I heard my heart break in half. :) Of course, I explained that she did it to save him, but he was still so upset. He choked back tears for the rest of the movie... and then he proceeded to cry when we walked out to the car, saying that it was just so sad that the panda couldn't stay with his mommy forever.
Oh, my sensitive son. I hope you stay this way forever.
Tonight is that night. Aren't you lucky?
I remembered a story that I wanted to blog a while back... and never did. Or did I? Maybe I did and can't find it or recall it.
Either way, it was a story that I love because it shows the sensitivity of my little baby boy... at the sweet age of 4.
We were at the movie theater to see Kung Fu Panda 2. The kids and I had met Brad at the dollar theater to see it after work one day this summer. I really enjoyed the first Kung Fu Panda, so I was probably as happy as the kids to go and watch it. I had no idea that my little man would end up in tears.
Spoiler alert... if you don't want to know part of the movie, then don't read any further. :)
About two-thirds of the way through the movie, Kung Fu Panda (Po) remembers a day from his childhood when his mother left him in a basket to save him from being harmed or killed by the enemy. It was a very visually dramatic part of the movie, where both the mother and the baby are sad and the baby is reaching for his mother from the basket. As you can imagine, it was very sad. That's when Jake turns around to look up at me from his position on my lap (he sits there to see over the seats in front of him, supposedly, but I think it's really because he just loves being cuddled up). Jake has big tears in his eyes and is puckering up the saddest little lip. He whispers, "His mommy left him." That's when I heard my heart break in half. :) Of course, I explained that she did it to save him, but he was still so upset. He choked back tears for the rest of the movie... and then he proceeded to cry when we walked out to the car, saying that it was just so sad that the panda couldn't stay with his mommy forever.
Oh, my sensitive son. I hope you stay this way forever.
Thankful
Sunday, September 11, 2011
On a regular day, I could possibly be the type to have a small mini-pity party for myself, because I happen to get a little carried away with the idea that I do everything at the house and no one ever seems to notice it. :)
Well, this weekend, I was proven wrong.
My wonderful hubby came home with flowers and chocolate for me yesterday afternoon. Now, I am completely ignoring the fact that I'm pretty certain the only reason that he did this was because Paul happened to suggest that it would be a good idea for both of them to bring flowers home to me AND Rebecca. I do know my husband well enough to know that he knows me well enough to know that, while I love flowers and romantic gestures, the practical side of Andrea almost always prevails and says, "Why did you waste money on something that's going to die in like two days?" :) I did not do that. Instead, I think I said something like, "Thanks, Paul, for suggesting that to Brad." I know, I know... equally as horrible. :) In return, they both laughed and I continued to explain that it has rarely happened in the 12 years we have been together (like twice, I think), so I'm pretty certain that I have Brad pegged. Not that I'm complaining, because I really do honestly say to Brad that it's a waste of money to bring home flowers. Anyway... I certainly do not want him to think that I didn't appreciate it. And I definitely love the flowers. It was perfectly sweet and thoughtful... and while I'm just about the toughest person in the world to please, I have to say that it really did make me happy. :) The simple fact that Brad took the time to do something extra for me on a pretty ordinary day really did make me feel appreciated and loved. So, good job, Brad (and Paul - ah hem). :)
And, then there was this morning... when my son proclaimed to his dad that he was indeed only his mommy's baby boy. He proceeded to give me some of the best hugs and kisses and snuggles that a mommy could ever want. Of course, Brad was gagging and pouting, but I was pretty enamored by my baby boy and all of his love. There is just something special between a mom and her baby boy. I can't explain it. It isn't more or better than it is with a daughter... at all. But, it is a different sweetness, much like that of what I think a dad-daughter bond is like.
And, then, there's Bailey. My sweet daughter... she is always creating... always making gifts. She could hold my heart in the palm of her hand. And, today, she made me cry with her sweetness. I had gone to wash the car and when I got back, she was running around the house, telling me not to go into the kitchen. She had made me the most beautiful coffee mug and a homemade card. The mug said, "Werld Gratist Mom" on one side, with a cute little drawing of the world and stars. On the other side, it said, "This is for pop. Love Bailey." She knows I don't drink coffee, so she wanted to make sure I wasn't confused. lol. It's a keeper. Forever.
I sit here tonight looking at the computer... ready to finish a post that I've been writing for about a week and can't seem to finish. But, instead, I can only write that my heart is absolutely and completely full. I guess it is fitting, considering that today marks the 10 year anniversary of the 9-11 attacks. My heart should be full... I have so much to be thankful for. I can't thank God enough for all of the blessings he has given me. I can't think of enough words to thank all of the men and women who keep us safe with their service. All I can do is cherish the wonderful freedoms we have and pray that I never take them for granted. Life is good... and having love makes it incredible. Thank you to Brad and my babies for making me feel so special on an almost ordinary day. I love you and I'm so happy to have such a perfectly sweet family.
Now, if only I would have been playing someone else in my fantasy football league. Then, my day would have been PERFECT. My mom seriously is beating me with a score of like 92-56. Had I played anyone else in the league, I'd be winning. I mean, for real... who in the world gets 90+ points in fantasy football? Ugh. MOM. I guess I should be saying, "Girl Power" or something like that, since we are kicking butt. :)
Well, this weekend, I was proven wrong.
My wonderful hubby came home with flowers and chocolate for me yesterday afternoon. Now, I am completely ignoring the fact that I'm pretty certain the only reason that he did this was because Paul happened to suggest that it would be a good idea for both of them to bring flowers home to me AND Rebecca. I do know my husband well enough to know that he knows me well enough to know that, while I love flowers and romantic gestures, the practical side of Andrea almost always prevails and says, "Why did you waste money on something that's going to die in like two days?" :) I did not do that. Instead, I think I said something like, "Thanks, Paul, for suggesting that to Brad." I know, I know... equally as horrible. :) In return, they both laughed and I continued to explain that it has rarely happened in the 12 years we have been together (like twice, I think), so I'm pretty certain that I have Brad pegged. Not that I'm complaining, because I really do honestly say to Brad that it's a waste of money to bring home flowers. Anyway... I certainly do not want him to think that I didn't appreciate it. And I definitely love the flowers. It was perfectly sweet and thoughtful... and while I'm just about the toughest person in the world to please, I have to say that it really did make me happy. :) The simple fact that Brad took the time to do something extra for me on a pretty ordinary day really did make me feel appreciated and loved. So, good job, Brad (and Paul - ah hem). :)
And, then there was this morning... when my son proclaimed to his dad that he was indeed only his mommy's baby boy. He proceeded to give me some of the best hugs and kisses and snuggles that a mommy could ever want. Of course, Brad was gagging and pouting, but I was pretty enamored by my baby boy and all of his love. There is just something special between a mom and her baby boy. I can't explain it. It isn't more or better than it is with a daughter... at all. But, it is a different sweetness, much like that of what I think a dad-daughter bond is like.
And, then, there's Bailey. My sweet daughter... she is always creating... always making gifts. She could hold my heart in the palm of her hand. And, today, she made me cry with her sweetness. I had gone to wash the car and when I got back, she was running around the house, telling me not to go into the kitchen. She had made me the most beautiful coffee mug and a homemade card. The mug said, "Werld Gratist Mom" on one side, with a cute little drawing of the world and stars. On the other side, it said, "This is for pop. Love Bailey." She knows I don't drink coffee, so she wanted to make sure I wasn't confused. lol. It's a keeper. Forever.
I sit here tonight looking at the computer... ready to finish a post that I've been writing for about a week and can't seem to finish. But, instead, I can only write that my heart is absolutely and completely full. I guess it is fitting, considering that today marks the 10 year anniversary of the 9-11 attacks. My heart should be full... I have so much to be thankful for. I can't thank God enough for all of the blessings he has given me. I can't think of enough words to thank all of the men and women who keep us safe with their service. All I can do is cherish the wonderful freedoms we have and pray that I never take them for granted. Life is good... and having love makes it incredible. Thank you to Brad and my babies for making me feel so special on an almost ordinary day. I love you and I'm so happy to have such a perfectly sweet family.
Now, if only I would have been playing someone else in my fantasy football league. Then, my day would have been PERFECT. My mom seriously is beating me with a score of like 92-56. Had I played anyone else in the league, I'd be winning. I mean, for real... who in the world gets 90+ points in fantasy football? Ugh. MOM. I guess I should be saying, "Girl Power" or something like that, since we are kicking butt. :)
Still here!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Hello world!
It has been a while.
Yes, we are still here.
Yes, we are still alive and well.
Yes, we are still living life to the fullest.
Where do I even begin to start to get caught up?
Well, I guess I’ll just work my way through what we have been doing. This could take a while. Grab your favorite caffeinated drink. Then, again, with my adult onset ADD, this might really only take a few seconds... then, I'll be on to writing a completely separate post that has nothing to do with anything. It happens. A lot. I just don't post them all. Yes, you can thank me later.
First and foremost, I have to tell you that the kids are both doing wonderfully in school. It is as if Jake has transformed into another child altogether. He loves school. He comes home spelling words, like the word, RED, in both English and sign language. He sings us songs, both Christian and traditional preschool songs. He tells me about the Bible and about baby Jesus and he loves to say the Pledge of Allegiance and the “Robin Hood” pledge, which is really the pledge to the Christian flag, but it says “brotherhood” in it and Jake calls it the Robin Hood pledge for that reason. J Yes, he is still kind of a little baby boy. Yet, you wouldn't think he is my baby boy at all if you walked into school with us each day. Oh, he still holds my hand, thankfully. He still gives me the traditional hug, kiss, and a high five before he goes into his class... sometimes twice. :) But, he doesn't hesitate. He doesn't seem nervous. He walks into his classroom with confidence and a smile. His teacher says he interacts with the class a lot during the day, often raising his hand to answer questions or offering his thoughts on something. I am one beaming proud momma... I am so close to feeling like I can mark off the list item that I have - to teach Jake to walk into a room with confidence and less insecurity. Although, I'm quite certain I never taught him anything... just encouraged him to use what he already has always had.
Bailey also loves school, as she has from day 1. She has had a little bit tougher time this year, seeing as how she is extremely competitive and is also in an extremely competitive class. She’s had more insecurities than I’m used to and many more than I would ever want her to have, but she is doing great. It is incredible to see how much she has grown since her preschool days… both physically and mentally. It is truly bittersweet. She is reading wonderfully... she is improving in math and learning more and more. My favorite thing about Bailey though is that Bailey still loves everyone she meets. She never meets a stranger and always comes home telling me about how she loves everyone in her class. She has a new best friend everyday... often coming home with drawings of her with this friend or that and the words "Best Friends Forever." It used to bother me that she didn't really have one friend that she counts as her "best friend" because I felt like she longed for that kind of friend. But, now, I am seeing that she really and truly does see each friend that she makes as her "best" friend. I love that she really loves people that much.
Brad and I are still happily married on most days. He's been rocking at the awesome dad role lately... not sure what got into him, but I can say that I am loving every second of it. Super Dad award is totally going to him these days. I am one lucky woman. Not to mention that he's a really fabulous husband. (Sidenote, I am totally wanting a treadmill... so there is some motivation to my compliments). :)
Fall is about to hit our area of the world, which really makes me happy. It also stresses me out just a little... because our schedule gets insane. I am not sure I can handle insane as well as I have in the past... mainly because I think the new version of insane is a little more hectic than the old version. :) We now have homework out our eyeballs, and I'm being nice when I say it that way. We started soccer tonight in the drizzling, windy, cold rain for Bailey and will start Jake's season on Friday. And, UK football... the first home game is on Saturday. Oh... and then there is Girl Scouts. Holidays, birthdays, and my favorite cooking season of the year is right around the corner, too. Eek. I feel like it is 2012 already. :)
We kicked off the start of our fall last weekend at the hottest game in the history of football (for us anyway) when we visited Dawn and Brandon and joined them for the Ohio State football game. If you know me well, you know that I'm not an OSU fan at all. However... and yes, this is a big however... we had a fabulous time! Of course, I didn't really care much about the game (it was a complete blow out), but I had so much fun hanging out with Dawn. Brad had such a great time hanging out with Brandon. And, we as a group, just had a great time hanging out together. It was so nice to have a relaxing time (we all slept a good 12 hours), enjoying good food and drinks and wonderful company. Thank you to Dawn and Brandon for inviting us to go!
Of course, since we went to the OSU game with Dawn and Brandon, the kids had to go have some fun, too. And, they definitely had their fill. They went fishing with my mom, dad and my nephew, Braden. They caught more fish than they could count, needing an almost assembly-line fashion to keep them baited and cast out. Bailey was the queen at baiting hooks (she loves to fish with worms AND minnows). Jake wouldn't even touch the fish or anything that would get his hands dirty. :) Like mother like daughter... like father like son. Haha. They also got to spend some quality time at my grandfather and uncle's home, playing with their cousins and enjoying the country life. I am told that they get really nervous walking on a back country road... it's really tough to understand how it's OK to just walk in the middle of the road when we have always told them just the opposite. My city kids... the city kids I never thought I'd have. lol.
We all enjoyed some quality time on Sunday and Monday at my parents' house, which is something that we never seem to have enough of. It always seems like we are rushing in and out when we visit our families... so this weekend was a welcome opportunity to just hang out and catch up. It's especially relaxing when I know that it is something we might not have again until the holidays. Did I mention our crazy busy schedule?
And that doesn't really catch us up, does it? But, it's close! I'll have more soon. Hope you are all enjoying the beginning to your fall!
First Day of Preschool
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Jake's first day of preschool was great. It was smooth... easy... all things I did not expect.
Of course, I didn't expect there to be crying or kicking or screaming or anything like that. I just expected it to be more "eventful." Instead, I had a smiling little boy who was up early and eager to get to his "new" school. He was excited about his lunchbox and backpack and the items that went in it. He was happy to sing along to some Taylor Swift (yes, my poor kid recognized it as I was flipping the radio stations and made me stop so he could sing) while we made our way across town. I have to say that I had a mini-flashback of the days when I used to drive the same path to take Bailey to the very same preschool, listening to the very same artist on the radio.
This time was a little different though... this would be the last time that I would have to walk one of my babies in for their first day of preschool. It is the beginning of a whole new era in our lives... the school years for not one, but two children. It was a bittersweet moment... but mostly sweet. I really love this age.
Watching Jake walk into his class so bravely made me so proud. I thought for half a second that he was going to walk in and completely forget that I was there... not even saying good-bye or giving me a hug or kiss. Despite my desire to reach out to him, I was going to just walk away. Then, he turned and smiled at me. And he came running over to me, arms out for a hug. We did the traditional hug, kiss, and high five. Then, he grabbed my hand and asked me to stay. Sigh. I was afraid that this is where his tears would start... or where the nervous hand-wringing would emerge... or where he'd get the lump in his throat that I could see him fighting back. But, he didn't. I smiled at him, took his hand and walked him to a table filled with new blocks and showed him how great they were. I introduced him to another child there... patted him on the head, kissed him, and told him to have a great day. And, that was that. I walked out, wondering how it would go... and thankful that I was not leaving a crying child... or crying myself. :)
I wondered on my way to work how he would do, if he slept at nap time, and if he ate the delicious lunch that I packed for him. Delicious to me, anyway. I couldn't believe it, but Jake wanted us to pack him salad, grapes, strawberries, and spaghetti-o's for his lunch. I wondered all day if the teachers thought I was crazy to pack a salad for a 4-year old. lol. But, he ate a lot of it. And, he wanted the same thing on Day 2.
Which brings me to Day 2. It was a little less successful. He was tired. Not happy to be getting up this morning and definitely not happy that he couldn't spend some time playing Batman on the Xbox. He didn't cry at school when I dropped him off, but he did seem more hesitant. He wanted me to tell him what time I would be back, even though he can't tell time. :) Yet, when I picked him up today, he was happy. He said he had a good day. Then, he asked if he had to go back tomorrow. When I said that he did, he decided that his teacher had punched him in the face. Yes. You read that right. He thought that maybe he should convince me that his teacher is hitting him so that he wouldn't have to go back. I played along and told him that I would talk to his teacher about the punching and beatings tomorrow morning. He immediately back pedaled, begging me not to tell his teacher because she'd be so mad. LOL. Tonight, he fell asleep at about 7:30. School is apparently exhausting, even if you have nap time. The bad part is that he didn't get to play Batman on the Xbox for long, which means that I'm going to have one mad kid in the morning. So, I contemplate... do I wake him up early so that he can play a few minutes when he gets up? Seriously? Am I really contemplating something like this? Yes, as ridiculous as that sounds, I am.
And, so life continues...
School begins
Thursday, August 18, 2011
The first day of school for Bailey came and went. It was nearly as uneventful as any regular day of school last year, which I welcomed with open arms. :) She immediately found her seat, greeted a few of her friends from last year, and began working on her morning work. Her teacher, Mrs. B, is super sweet and super tough, both very good things for our talkative and sometimes attention-deprived (haha) daughter.
Much like any normal day of school last year, we also had homework. Mrs. B wastes no time. And, as much as I would love to complain because it is SO much work, I would never breathe a negative word about it. Bailey really enjoys homework and learning... and she didn't really miss a beat in getting back into our after school routine. I was happy to hear that Bailey had Mrs. B when we found out it was her, because she is supposedly an awesome teacher. I also heard that she might be one of the toughest at our school... and tough really means work. If tough and homework equals Bailey excelling in school, well, I am happy to sit and work with her through homework from the very first day. :) I have a feeling Bailey is going to grow exponentially this year.
In other school news, Bailey is enjoying meeting new friends (of course) and was over the moon excited about her classroom having a new student today, who she has claimed as her "newest friend." I translate that into "Mom, I am going to show this girl how to do everything at our new school and introduce her to every person I know." Having moved from school to school more times that I would want to count, I am so happy to know that my daughter is the little girl who is running to make her feel welcome.
Bailey also is all about the clothes this year. I don't mind that too much, since I love to get her dressed up, but she is a little bit more obsessed than I expected. She doesn't want to wear anything that she has worn before. Fortunately, I convinced her that she really can't do that, otherwise, she's going to run out of clothes soon. I held my breath in fear that she was going to suggest that we just go buy more. Luckily, she laughed sheepishly and said something to the effect of how silly she was being for thinking that way. Shew. A close one for sure. lol.
Six school days in and we are feeling good (aside from a sniffle and cough here and there after the first two days - eek).
One child down...
... and the other to go. Tomorrow will be Jake's Open House at his new school (which he thought I said Haunted House and kind of freaked out a little - haha). We are very eager to see what he thinks. I am sure that he's going to be nervous and I'm quite honestly dreading next week because of it. I'm sure he will do great, but I know that he's going to have that sweet little nervous face when I get ready to leave. He's going to wring his hands and force a smile after he hugs and kisses me about 5 times. Then, I'm going to get that sick feeling in the pit of my stomach, give him my best forced smile, tell him how much fun he's going to have, and then pray as I walk out the door that he doesn't shed a tear. This will happen for the entire first week, but I'm very hopeful that after that it will go away. Hoping and praying. So, if you are feeling prayerful and want to whisper a quick one for us for next week, I'd really appreciate it!
Pics of Jake's first day, coming soon. :)
Much like any normal day of school last year, we also had homework. Mrs. B wastes no time. And, as much as I would love to complain because it is SO much work, I would never breathe a negative word about it. Bailey really enjoys homework and learning... and she didn't really miss a beat in getting back into our after school routine. I was happy to hear that Bailey had Mrs. B when we found out it was her, because she is supposedly an awesome teacher. I also heard that she might be one of the toughest at our school... and tough really means work. If tough and homework equals Bailey excelling in school, well, I am happy to sit and work with her through homework from the very first day. :) I have a feeling Bailey is going to grow exponentially this year.
In other school news, Bailey is enjoying meeting new friends (of course) and was over the moon excited about her classroom having a new student today, who she has claimed as her "newest friend." I translate that into "Mom, I am going to show this girl how to do everything at our new school and introduce her to every person I know." Having moved from school to school more times that I would want to count, I am so happy to know that my daughter is the little girl who is running to make her feel welcome.
Bailey also is all about the clothes this year. I don't mind that too much, since I love to get her dressed up, but she is a little bit more obsessed than I expected. She doesn't want to wear anything that she has worn before. Fortunately, I convinced her that she really can't do that, otherwise, she's going to run out of clothes soon. I held my breath in fear that she was going to suggest that we just go buy more. Luckily, she laughed sheepishly and said something to the effect of how silly she was being for thinking that way. Shew. A close one for sure. lol.
Six school days in and we are feeling good (aside from a sniffle and cough here and there after the first two days - eek).
One child down...
... and the other to go. Tomorrow will be Jake's Open House at his new school (which he thought I said Haunted House and kind of freaked out a little - haha). We are very eager to see what he thinks. I am sure that he's going to be nervous and I'm quite honestly dreading next week because of it. I'm sure he will do great, but I know that he's going to have that sweet little nervous face when I get ready to leave. He's going to wring his hands and force a smile after he hugs and kisses me about 5 times. Then, I'm going to get that sick feeling in the pit of my stomach, give him my best forced smile, tell him how much fun he's going to have, and then pray as I walk out the door that he doesn't shed a tear. This will happen for the entire first week, but I'm very hopeful that after that it will go away. Hoping and praying. So, if you are feeling prayerful and want to whisper a quick one for us for next week, I'd really appreciate it!
Pics of Jake's first day, coming soon. :)
A quick fun summer... a long post
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Two days... school will start and basically end our summer. Sigh. But, then again, I could use some structure. In case you haven't noticed, I haven't blogged much recently. Instead, I've been thinking about what I've been doing... and honestly trying to figure out what I've been doing. :) I mean, I know a lot of it, but I still haven't figured out why I can't seem to do it all these days. I think it has to be the pool's fault. The pool must be to blame for sucking up all of our extra time. :)
We have, however, had some serious fun. On Friday of last week, we coerced Brad to take some time off and take us to King's Island. We had so much fun.
We stayed for nearly 11 hours... even watching the fireworks at the end of the night. The kids loved the rides. Bailey, our thrill-seeker, rode the big rides with Brad. I mean, she rode the Vortex. And, she loved it. I swear, we are going to have issues with this child. We are going to have to have a full schedule of adrenaline-pumping thrill rides and adventures to keep her out of trouble when she gets older. But, I have to admit that I love it. She has such passion for life... such energy... and she is willing to try everything. I'll never forget her smile when she came off the Racers and told me how awesome it was... as she dragged me behind her to ride it again. I thought my heart might explode (and then my head when I actually rode the ride, but I won't go into details on how getting old sucks). Bailey's love for life inspires me to love life just a little bit more.
Jake, well, Jake is so much like his uncle Colt that I can't help but laugh (and hope that he's as good of a man as Colt is turning out to be). Jake decided about halfway through the day that he was tired and ready to just go on home. He said to us that he "needed a stroller so that he could take a nap." Brad and I discussed it and decided that if he really wanted to take a nap, then maybe we should rent a stroller... then, he could get some rest and we could stay until closing to make sure he got his fill of the rides. Well, Jake is apparently a great trickster. He wanted a stroller because he was too dang lazy to walk. He just wanted it so that he could be pampered and pushed through the park. There was not even a sign of a nap at any point. :) He also enjoyed the rides... although he is not quite as brave as Bailey. He did however, really enjoy the Viking Ship and the Woodstock Express.
Of course, we all enjoyed the food... the junk food... yum. I didn't get a funnel cake (boo), but we happened to have plenty of other goodies, including pizza, fries, pop, ice cream, Icees, cotton candy, etc.
After a full day of excitement, we made our way back home and crashed. Saturday was filled with relaxing at the house, doing a little shopping, and then taking the kids to a birthday party. And, then there was this other little thing that happened... oh nothing big... just that CILLA HAD THE BABY! I was so excited when Bret texted saying they were going to the hospital. Oh... I couldn't wait to know how far along she was and get to the hospital. I arrived at about midnight (an hour after she had arrived there). At about 1 a.m., Bret came out and announced that the baby was here. I couldn't believe it went that fast... but I could not have been more relieved. I'm not sure that I could be more nervous about someone having to suffer through childbirth. It made me realize even more how much I dread it when my little girl is in that same position. Oh, my poor mom. I was so anxious for it to be over with and to get him here. I didn't want to think about her in pain... so, the faster, the better. And, then, we got to go in and see them. Stef was just as perfect as you could imagine. Beautiful... sweet... perfect. And for maybe a day, I actually contemplated the idea that maybe I could handle being a mom just one more time. I had an especially difficult time when I saw how wonderful of a big brother Jake would be. He was so sweet... so excited... about seeing Stef. And, my heart melted just a little, thinking that maybe I had somehow robbed him of being the perfect big brother to some little boy. Brad quickly reminded me of how ready I am to NOT have children any more... and how hard those sleepless nights are... and how many diapers we would have to change... and how much money it would cost... well, you get the point. :) Still, it doesn't make Stef any less perfect. lol. Thank you to Cilla and Bret for allowing me to be a part of your little man's first night in the world. I love you guys and I love him so much already.
So, what else has been going on? Well, I have to tell you all about it. Jake, my terrified-of-going-underwater-son, is now swimming underwater... non-stop. :)
Bailey is as hyper as always and is about to drive me to drinking. She is constantly bored, if we aren't going all the time. I mean, really, I can't find enough to keep her entertained. I'm so excited to get her into school. I know. I sound terrible, but I really want to get her engaged in something that will keep her mind busy. Add to the bored factor, she is terribly hateful these days. Jake makes her mad if he looks at her wrong. She keeps yelling at him. And, she threw a MAJOR fit on me earlier this week, where she threatened to scream as loud as you can possibly imagine our entire trip home because she was mad that I was punishing her for acting up. I mean, seriously, I have considered locking her in her room for a few hours, just to get some peace. Not really, but she is about to drive me crazy. So, I'm looking forward to Thursday and the beginning of school.
We also have some big changes for Jake coming. He has decided that he wants to move to a new preschool, so we have decided to make a move. We have long considered moving Jake to Bailey's old preschool, mainly because we loved it so much and she has been so well prepared for school. So, when Jake decided that he wanted to make a move, we discussed the possibility of going ahead and moving him to Bailey's old school. And, so far, it has worked out. And, to make things even better, he's SO excited. He keeps talking about it. AND... he seems somewhat interested in actually writing and drawing. I know. I can't believe it either. :) So, hopefully good big changes and not bad big changes. We shall see...
And... I have so much more that I want to write. But, tonight... I will stop. For your sake and mine. I mean, you all know how I can ramble on and on... what? You hadn't figured that out yet? Oops. Sorry for letting that cat out of the bag. :)
Choosing Sides
Sunday, July 31, 2011
*Just want to note before you read this post that I have no real reason for writing this on today. There hasn't been a bad experience recently or anything else... it's just something that I've thought about for years and thought I'd just ramble on about it here. :)
I remember a day when I used to know it all. I used to feel confident in every decision I made. I knew exactly what I would do in any given situation.
Then, I became a mom.
And, all of that went out the window. In the effort of full disclosure, I will say that I'm still pretty strong-headed. I, like all moms, have doubts in my abilities as a parent from time to time. I, like all moms, wonder if I really have a clue about what I'm doing. But, I also, like or unlike others, feel confident most of the time in my decisions. And, once I make them, I commit that they are my choice and if they are wrong, I don't care to admit it. I am human. I am a mom. And, there is no reason in the world to think that I am going to go through parenting without making mistakes. I have made them all my life... I didn't immediately become perfect when my daughter took her first breath.
With that all being said, things changed when I became a mom. Things that I thought were simple and easy choices weren't necessarily that easy. I wondered if I would ever feel as confident about my choices as I did before I had a daughter. I wondered why it was that way for a long time. And, after my daughter reached her first birthday, I started to feel like I was gaining my old confidence and I began to slowly realize why.
I was an avid reader of all things parenting when I first became a mom. I was among the first of my close friends to get married and to have a child. Most of my inner circle of friends were not yet mothers, so I had to rely on other resources for information. And, these resources were wide and many, I will tell you. I can remember reading articles after articles... most of them just being confirmations of what I felt or thought or completely disagreed with. :) Yet... there was one article that I read that stands out in my mind. I wish I could find it. It was so compelling. It stuck out in my mind at the time for several reasons... and it really put a lot of things into perspective for me.
It was an article about moms... all moms and their relationships with each other. It had nothing to do with actual parenting. It was about moms judging one another for their choices. It hit home for me, because one of the hardest things for me to deal with as a new mom was the bombardment of advice that I received from other people. Again, many of my close friends were not yet mothers, so other people, particularly moms, felt as if they really needed to share their wisdom with me.
I'll never forget the woman who told me in line at Old Navy that I really needed to clip Bailey's fingernails before she scratched herself. My jaw literally almost hit the floor. I was caught so off-guard that I don't even remember what I said to her... but I remember thinking of all kinds of things that I wished I would have said later on. :)
Now, in an effort to not sound like an unappreciative brat, I want you to know that I absolutely cherished so many of the conversations that I had with other moms. I can tell you that there are certain people that really helped me make decisions, to trust my instincts, and to just feel like a normal person for wondering how in the world to do these things. There were even friends who were not moms who helped me by reminding me that I was allowed to make my own choices and not feel pressured by everyone else to do what they were doing (that's totally a shout out to you girls at UC!). :)
Yet, there were the moms who decided to tell me what they thought by saying things like, "Oh... well, you just have to breastfeed. It's only natural. Bottle fed babies are usually overweight and unhealthy." Or you had the other, "Breastfeeding is the biggest hassle. You will never be able to do it. It's too much work and you are so confined to the child. Just don't do it."
So, here I was, a new baby on the way, and people just forcing their opinions on me... not in a constructive way, but in a very matter of fact and judgmental way. I felt attacked... as if whichever decision I made would be choosing a team or a side. The article that I read that made such an impact talked about how mothers seemed to be on teams. That there was this way or that way... and that only one way could possibly be correct. The article went on to talk about how moms, if they stopped alienating each other by making them feel judged, could be a force to be reckoned with... a strong, united group of people who could help each other through situations, good or bad, right or wrong, and find the best solutions for that individual. It said, quite simply, that moms could be a new mom's worst enemy... and that moms did this to themselves. And, it made the case for women to stop judging each other on everything from breastfeeding to working versus staying at home, and to, instead, start supporting each other and celebrating each other's differences.
Now, I can assure you that I don't ever think I have attempted to sabotage a new mom by sharing with her my opinion. That's not to say that I haven't though. I am quite certain that I have, even as recently as the past year, said something to the affect of, "Just don't do this..." to my best friend. Thank God she knows me and could easily have said to me, "Oh really..." and I would have cracked up at myself for being that mom. I can also assure you that I often want to look at a mother who wants to give me advice and say, "Did I ask for your opinion?" Haha. It's much easier to feel that way after two kids who have survived (by some miracle) through the toddler stages and are now entering the very scary, school-aged world.
I also can assure you that I think it is natural for women to align themselves with other women who make similar choices. I have to admit that I have an easier time talking to someone who has kids that are interested in the same things as mine... that I had an easier time talking about my challenges with breastfeeding to other moms who also struggled with it. There is just a natural progression about that type of relationship... and there is not one single thing wrong with it, until... you alienate someone else.
Why do we feel the need to judge each other? To make each other feel like they made a choice that was wrong? Why do we as parents feel like we need to confirm that our way is the right way? Does it really have to be this way or that way? No. It doesn't.
Each child is different. Each parent is different. Each situation is different. We should embrace that... not try to streamline it.
For example, I have been on both sides of the stay at home versus working mother fence. Each time, I've been treated like I am making the wrong choice by some other mom. As a working mom, I've had moms make comments about "Don't you feel like your kids are spending more time with their sitter/day care teachers? I just couldn't do that to my kids." As a stay at home mom, I've heard, "Don't you ever get tired of being at home with kids all the time? I don't see how you can stand just doing the same thing over and over all day."
Really, ladies. We need to support each other more. To lift each other up for our differences and celebrate each other's confidence to make our own way for us and for our kids.
Each and every new (and old) mom is looking for reassurance that they are doing a good job... that their beautiful baby is thriving because of their love and care. None of us get into motherhood with the idea that we want to be told we are doing it all wrong. Help each other... don't force your opinion... listen to each other. I know that it can work. I have it with my friends now. Sure, Dawn, Rebecca and I agree on a lot of things. But, each of us have different birth stories. Each of us have different experiences with breastfeeding. Each of us have different ways to get our kids to sleep at night or had different ways of sleeping with them when they were infants. You know what? All of our kids are happy and healthy. All of our kids can get themselves to sleep. All of our kids (except Jake, haha) eat.
Go forward and support each other... women's liberation wasn't created so that we could divide ourselves into two groups of this way and that way. We just keep knocking ourselves down by forgetting that.
I remember a day when I used to know it all. I used to feel confident in every decision I made. I knew exactly what I would do in any given situation.
Then, I became a mom.
And, all of that went out the window. In the effort of full disclosure, I will say that I'm still pretty strong-headed. I, like all moms, have doubts in my abilities as a parent from time to time. I, like all moms, wonder if I really have a clue about what I'm doing. But, I also, like or unlike others, feel confident most of the time in my decisions. And, once I make them, I commit that they are my choice and if they are wrong, I don't care to admit it. I am human. I am a mom. And, there is no reason in the world to think that I am going to go through parenting without making mistakes. I have made them all my life... I didn't immediately become perfect when my daughter took her first breath.
With that all being said, things changed when I became a mom. Things that I thought were simple and easy choices weren't necessarily that easy. I wondered if I would ever feel as confident about my choices as I did before I had a daughter. I wondered why it was that way for a long time. And, after my daughter reached her first birthday, I started to feel like I was gaining my old confidence and I began to slowly realize why.
I was an avid reader of all things parenting when I first became a mom. I was among the first of my close friends to get married and to have a child. Most of my inner circle of friends were not yet mothers, so I had to rely on other resources for information. And, these resources were wide and many, I will tell you. I can remember reading articles after articles... most of them just being confirmations of what I felt or thought or completely disagreed with. :) Yet... there was one article that I read that stands out in my mind. I wish I could find it. It was so compelling. It stuck out in my mind at the time for several reasons... and it really put a lot of things into perspective for me.
It was an article about moms... all moms and their relationships with each other. It had nothing to do with actual parenting. It was about moms judging one another for their choices. It hit home for me, because one of the hardest things for me to deal with as a new mom was the bombardment of advice that I received from other people. Again, many of my close friends were not yet mothers, so other people, particularly moms, felt as if they really needed to share their wisdom with me.
I'll never forget the woman who told me in line at Old Navy that I really needed to clip Bailey's fingernails before she scratched herself. My jaw literally almost hit the floor. I was caught so off-guard that I don't even remember what I said to her... but I remember thinking of all kinds of things that I wished I would have said later on. :)
Now, in an effort to not sound like an unappreciative brat, I want you to know that I absolutely cherished so many of the conversations that I had with other moms. I can tell you that there are certain people that really helped me make decisions, to trust my instincts, and to just feel like a normal person for wondering how in the world to do these things. There were even friends who were not moms who helped me by reminding me that I was allowed to make my own choices and not feel pressured by everyone else to do what they were doing (that's totally a shout out to you girls at UC!). :)
Yet, there were the moms who decided to tell me what they thought by saying things like, "Oh... well, you just have to breastfeed. It's only natural. Bottle fed babies are usually overweight and unhealthy." Or you had the other, "Breastfeeding is the biggest hassle. You will never be able to do it. It's too much work and you are so confined to the child. Just don't do it."
So, here I was, a new baby on the way, and people just forcing their opinions on me... not in a constructive way, but in a very matter of fact and judgmental way. I felt attacked... as if whichever decision I made would be choosing a team or a side. The article that I read that made such an impact talked about how mothers seemed to be on teams. That there was this way or that way... and that only one way could possibly be correct. The article went on to talk about how moms, if they stopped alienating each other by making them feel judged, could be a force to be reckoned with... a strong, united group of people who could help each other through situations, good or bad, right or wrong, and find the best solutions for that individual. It said, quite simply, that moms could be a new mom's worst enemy... and that moms did this to themselves. And, it made the case for women to stop judging each other on everything from breastfeeding to working versus staying at home, and to, instead, start supporting each other and celebrating each other's differences.
Now, I can assure you that I don't ever think I have attempted to sabotage a new mom by sharing with her my opinion. That's not to say that I haven't though. I am quite certain that I have, even as recently as the past year, said something to the affect of, "Just don't do this..." to my best friend. Thank God she knows me and could easily have said to me, "Oh really..." and I would have cracked up at myself for being that mom. I can also assure you that I often want to look at a mother who wants to give me advice and say, "Did I ask for your opinion?" Haha. It's much easier to feel that way after two kids who have survived (by some miracle) through the toddler stages and are now entering the very scary, school-aged world.
I also can assure you that I think it is natural for women to align themselves with other women who make similar choices. I have to admit that I have an easier time talking to someone who has kids that are interested in the same things as mine... that I had an easier time talking about my challenges with breastfeeding to other moms who also struggled with it. There is just a natural progression about that type of relationship... and there is not one single thing wrong with it, until... you alienate someone else.
Why do we feel the need to judge each other? To make each other feel like they made a choice that was wrong? Why do we as parents feel like we need to confirm that our way is the right way? Does it really have to be this way or that way? No. It doesn't.
Each child is different. Each parent is different. Each situation is different. We should embrace that... not try to streamline it.
For example, I have been on both sides of the stay at home versus working mother fence. Each time, I've been treated like I am making the wrong choice by some other mom. As a working mom, I've had moms make comments about "Don't you feel like your kids are spending more time with their sitter/day care teachers? I just couldn't do that to my kids." As a stay at home mom, I've heard, "Don't you ever get tired of being at home with kids all the time? I don't see how you can stand just doing the same thing over and over all day."
Really, ladies. We need to support each other more. To lift each other up for our differences and celebrate each other's confidence to make our own way for us and for our kids.
Each and every new (and old) mom is looking for reassurance that they are doing a good job... that their beautiful baby is thriving because of their love and care. None of us get into motherhood with the idea that we want to be told we are doing it all wrong. Help each other... don't force your opinion... listen to each other. I know that it can work. I have it with my friends now. Sure, Dawn, Rebecca and I agree on a lot of things. But, each of us have different birth stories. Each of us have different experiences with breastfeeding. Each of us have different ways to get our kids to sleep at night or had different ways of sleeping with them when they were infants. You know what? All of our kids are happy and healthy. All of our kids can get themselves to sleep. All of our kids (except Jake, haha) eat.
Go forward and support each other... women's liberation wasn't created so that we could divide ourselves into two groups of this way and that way. We just keep knocking ourselves down by forgetting that.
A routine
Thursday, July 28, 2011
School is about to start back in our world… and that brings lots of sadness to our home, especially as it relates to my son, Jake. He is not interested in the least in returning to his preschool – or any preschool for that matter – and he is going to make sure we all know it. Sigh. I don’t know what to do to change that for him. We have tried everything we can think of to make it exciting, but when Jake decides he isn’t buying something… well, he just isn’t going to change his mind easily. So, we continue on this path of hoping and praying that he’ll eventually find a passion for something at his school and that we’ll be able to use that to get him excited about going. Until then, we have school supplies to purchase, new clothes to pick out, and new backpacks and lunchboxes to look through. And, even if Jake isn’t excited about going to school, we are ALL excited about the shopping.
We are also a bit sad about school starting back, because it really brings to an end our lazy days of summer. We love the slow speed of our summer mornings, where the kids lounge in their pajamas until lunch time (most days), watching their favorite shows, swinging on their swingset, or jumping on their trampoline to pass the cooler hours. We love the coolness of the pool when the temperature gets too hot and the tight feeling of our skin after a long day in the sun. We love to lay on the couch, curtains pulled to make it nice and cozy, with a soft t-shirt, wet hair, and a bag of popcorn, watching our favorite movies. Oh, summer, how you force us to cherish you.
Yet, summer seems to end as soon as August hits; as soon as school begins, life shifts from a steady humming buzz of busy to a full throttle of overdrive. We become less sporadic and more routine. There is homework to be done, papers to be signed, and lunches that need packed. This year is sure to bring even more difficulties as Bailey transitions into the first grade and has a wonderful (but very tough) teacher. I imagine that the days of me cooking dinner while Bailey works on her homework will be less this year, as she will probably need more instruction at home. We are up for the challenge, though… I love to see my kids learn and excel at what they are doing. And, Bailey has all the energy and enthusiasm in the world when it comes to doing her homework. So, we’ll keep on using that, because one day it might run out.
There is something to be said about a routine though… it does seem to help me. I know that many of you often think I have lost my mind when I say we have signed up for something new or are packing one more thing into our schedule. But, I can honestly say that we all seem to do better with a schedule (when I say that, I mean me and the kids… our schedule and Brad’s don’t always mesh, so I’m not speaking for him here). The kids and I seem to find ways to do more and enjoy more things when we are busier. It’s probably because I’m more mindful of our time when there are so many things to pack into a day. When we have to be at an activity at 5:30, I’m much more likely to come home and cook dinner as soon as I get there than I am when we don’t have to be any place until 7. I look at it like I look at money. If you have a lot of it, you waste it. If you don’t, you budget it wisely. :)
And, so it goes. Here's to hoping that our new routine will embrace us with soft and patient arms... because while Bailey, Brad, and I might go easily... Jake is going to come to this routine kicking and screaming... now or later. :)
Fighting... the urge to throw up.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
As I might or might not have mentioned a few times on here, I'm the daughter of a former professional boxer.
Normally, I would be thrilled to see that he has the attention span for any sport... but this one was different. I was sick to my stomach watching this little boy fall in love with a sport that will make me want to throw up every time he "plays" it. Of all the sports in the world, this is the one that I probably did not want him to pick.
I have spent so much time watching boxing matches that I honestly could probably qualify as a judge. I might or might not have a habit of counting punches when watching a fight. If you don't watch boxing, you probably think that sounds crazy. But, after watching it for my entire life, it just comes with the territory.
As an adult, I would pick my favorite fighters based on the best fights. And, really, I never have had an all-time fighter, unless you count my dad or brother. :) But there are always certain fights that stand out in my mind. The Gatti vs. Ward fights are probably my favorites. As much as I love the story of Micky Ward, I have to admit that I always rooted for Gatti. However, I type this as I watch The Fighter. :) Being raised in a boxing household also requires that watch and re-watch boxing movies repeatedly... Rocky IV. Ugh. That's all I'm saying. Thank God for Mark Wahlberg's determination in creating a new boxing movie. And, while I'm rambling on that topic, I have to say that The Fighter might very well be the most realistic boxing movie I have ever seen. Watching boxing behind the scenes is kind of similar to watching sausage being made. :) The Fighter really hit the nail on the head with most of it. :)
Anyway... the reason for this post is not to ramble about why I love boxing or to discuss the merits of boxing movies or to determine which fights were the best. Instead, I'm talking about my son's newfound interest in the sport.
A couple of weeks ago, we spent time with my parents in eastern Kentucky. My dad decided to give Jake a boxing lesson. It was mainly just to play with him, but it ended up being more. Jake, who is known for his short attention span in sports, sat mesmerized as my dad instructed him. He watched in amazement as Colt and Brad, and admittedly, his mother, hit the mits.
Normally, I would be thrilled to see that he has the attention span for any sport... but this one was different. I was sick to my stomach watching this little boy fall in love with a sport that will make me want to throw up every time he "plays" it. Of all the sports in the world, this is the one that I probably did not want him to pick.
Don't get me wrong... I love boxing. I mean, I really and truly do love it. It's an incredible sport that takes so much physical and mental capacity. It takes courage, work ethic, and the ability to keep your wits when all you want to do is tackle your opponent to the ground. Learning to box (and when to actually use it) can make you feel safe, strong, and confident. All things that are good for kids... all things that were good for me. I never remember feeling like I couldn't defend myself and that was because I knew the right way to throw a punch and I knew the right way to duck (or when to run... haha). Yet...
Yet...
... watching a mere friend in the ring can make me kind of sick and shaky with nervousness.
... watching my brother would make me a nervous wreck, hands trembling, sweat dripping, and voice cracking with every yell. I cannot tell you the number of times that I've actually contemplated climbing the steps to the ring and punching the crap out of one of my brother's opponents. Or just grabbing him and holding his arms down so that my brother could hit him. Seriously... adrenaline + emotional female = scary. :)
... watching my son in the ring... I probably would have a nervous breakdown... or I could actually kill someone. :)
So, of course, Jake is in love with that sport. And, as fate would have it, he's probably going to have the genetics to make him good at it. He's cool, calm and collected. He's thin. He's tough enough to take a punch from his 6-year old sister, bare-fisted, to his eye and not even cry. He understood the instructions that my dad gave him, almost immediately. I was so excited and yet so sick. I was beaming at how good he was doing, but feeling the need to pull him away and bundle him up in a baby blanket for fear that he was going to really actually want to box.
These days, when I ask Jake what sport he wants to play, he says he wants to be a boxer. I might be losing the battle to keep him out of the ring. Instead, I might have to put on the big girl panties and actually suck it up as a mom and let my baby bird fly a little. Just don't expect me to do it without throwing up first.
For those of you interested in seeing my little guy (and girl, since Bailey took a lesson, too) in action... here you go. :)
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