I met a family who just moved to Colorado Springs recently. She mentioned finding a local hike and I gave her a bunch of places that we love to take kids here in the Springs. I figured maybe other people would live here or visit here and want the same info, so I'll put it here on my blog.
Starsmore Discovery Center
Bear Creek Nature Center
Castlewood Canyon State Park
Mueller State Park
Paint Mines
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Section 16, Black Forest
Homestead Regional Park
Fox Run Park
All of these places have hiking and are free! If you want to spend money, the Colorado Springs Zoo is really well done and only takes about 2 hours to get through. We typically get a season pass. We always go around Christmas for their zoo lights (it is in the evening, one year it snowed on us while we were there - WONDERFUL fun!).
There are tons of great outdoor places for kids out here. As I write this I keep thinking of other great hikes - Sonderman Park, Palmer Park, the Santa Fe Trail, Pancake Rocks, the Crags. The list could go on indefinitely!
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Monday, November 5, 2012
Dyslexia
Since I haven't blogged much in the past year, people who follow this blog (again, all 2 of you), may not know that Seth was diagnosed with dyslexia last year. He was 8 at the time, still not reading, still writing in all capital letters and obviously just not "getting it" when it came to reading. I took him to a wonderful lady who does brain training with a twist (she uses a sparker and sparks accupressure points - this probably makes no sense to anyone!). If you're interested, you can find her at Brain Transformations, Becky Kennard.
Even with brain training, it has taken a while for Seth to really read WELL. He is now 9, 3rd grade and reads everything! He also has taken to spelling things nonstop (which is really cool!).
Imagine my joy this morning when he brought a small print, New King James Version of the Bible to devotions and wanted to get to read from it (his sisters look up verses and read). When he read, read VERY well, a verse, I cried.
This is one of those moments as a homeschool mom where I feel like we just might succeed!!! Thank You God for putting Becky in our lives and giving me the patience to wait for Seth to read!
Even with brain training, it has taken a while for Seth to really read WELL. He is now 9, 3rd grade and reads everything! He also has taken to spelling things nonstop (which is really cool!).
Imagine my joy this morning when he brought a small print, New King James Version of the Bible to devotions and wanted to get to read from it (his sisters look up verses and read). When he read, read VERY well, a verse, I cried.
This is one of those moments as a homeschool mom where I feel like we just might succeed!!! Thank You God for putting Becky in our lives and giving me the patience to wait for Seth to read!
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Kid's Questions
I was in the kitchen with Eric and Seth. Seth says, "How does a baby get in your stomach?" I quickly rinsed my hands and said, "Eric, Seth wants to know how a baby gets in your stomach. I have to finish cleaning my room." And I quickly exited the room. I'm a total wimp. Plus, it's the Dad's job to teach his boys, right? Right?
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Sacrifice or Losing My Selfishness?
When I first got married, I remember realizing just how incredibly selfish I was. It was hard to give up so much of my space and time and my "rights" for someone else. After a couple of years, I felt pretty good about how I had overcome being so selfish. Then I had my first child. Yikes! I was right back to realizing how incredibly selfish I was! I hadn't conquered it, I had only conquered some things.
With having a child, comes a lot of sacrifice. Here is a list of things I feel I've given up as a homeschooling mom of many: sleep, exercise, coherent sentences, personal hygiene, reading, playing the piano, exercise, dressing with some sense of style (I have never been considered stylish!), lunch with friends, dates with my husband, weekends away, quiet, healthy eating ... This list could go on all day and I'm sure you can think of many to add!
I guess I've felt that I've pretty much given up everything! Now, some of these things I've only temporarily given up. Most nights I get a full night of sleep and I typically get to shower on a regular basis. I've had periods of time where I've been able to exercise regularly, not currently happening right now, but it will again.
Healthy eating was of upmost importance to me many years ago. When Eric and I were dating, I was a vegetarian. I did a ton of research on healthy eating and tried very hard to eat well. When Abigail was born, I didn't let her eat meat for 2 years. Sugar was rare in her diet. Fast forward 14+ years. Josiah is a sugar-aholic. He begs for candy all day. I typically let him have one piece a day. My kids eat plenty of junk food. We still rarely eat at fast food restaurants and I make most meals from scratch. But there are Oreos in the cupboard and possibly chicken nuggets in the freezer. I had managed to not eat beef and pork for many many years, but when we moved here I just didn't have the energy. We were frequently invited to people's houses for supper (which is wonderful!!!!!) and I've always eaten what is served. There went any attempts at not eating beef or pork. I kept the serving sizes small, but still ate. I also have a cousin here in Colorado who owns a butcher shop with her husband. My parents get a cow once or twice a year from there and we all split the meat. So I have local beef to eat or store bought chicken. Eating more beef. Last week, for the first time in close to 20 years, I ate a hamburger for supper. Eric had grilled and when we sat down to eat I realized I had forgotten to pull out a veggie burger for myself. I could either let Eric sit down and eat with us or have him grill my veggie burger. I let him eat. My heart sunk, I was sad, but I ate.
I'd like to think that was the very last thing I will have to give up. It seems like there really is nothing that is "mine" left. But I have a feeling I still haven't fully conquered being selfish and God isn't finished working on me in that area.
With having a child, comes a lot of sacrifice. Here is a list of things I feel I've given up as a homeschooling mom of many: sleep, exercise, coherent sentences, personal hygiene, reading, playing the piano, exercise, dressing with some sense of style (I have never been considered stylish!), lunch with friends, dates with my husband, weekends away, quiet, healthy eating ... This list could go on all day and I'm sure you can think of many to add!
I guess I've felt that I've pretty much given up everything! Now, some of these things I've only temporarily given up. Most nights I get a full night of sleep and I typically get to shower on a regular basis. I've had periods of time where I've been able to exercise regularly, not currently happening right now, but it will again.
Healthy eating was of upmost importance to me many years ago. When Eric and I were dating, I was a vegetarian. I did a ton of research on healthy eating and tried very hard to eat well. When Abigail was born, I didn't let her eat meat for 2 years. Sugar was rare in her diet. Fast forward 14+ years. Josiah is a sugar-aholic. He begs for candy all day. I typically let him have one piece a day. My kids eat plenty of junk food. We still rarely eat at fast food restaurants and I make most meals from scratch. But there are Oreos in the cupboard and possibly chicken nuggets in the freezer. I had managed to not eat beef and pork for many many years, but when we moved here I just didn't have the energy. We were frequently invited to people's houses for supper (which is wonderful!!!!!) and I've always eaten what is served. There went any attempts at not eating beef or pork. I kept the serving sizes small, but still ate. I also have a cousin here in Colorado who owns a butcher shop with her husband. My parents get a cow once or twice a year from there and we all split the meat. So I have local beef to eat or store bought chicken. Eating more beef. Last week, for the first time in close to 20 years, I ate a hamburger for supper. Eric had grilled and when we sat down to eat I realized I had forgotten to pull out a veggie burger for myself. I could either let Eric sit down and eat with us or have him grill my veggie burger. I let him eat. My heart sunk, I was sad, but I ate.
I'd like to think that was the very last thing I will have to give up. It seems like there really is nothing that is "mine" left. But I have a feeling I still haven't fully conquered being selfish and God isn't finished working on me in that area.
Getting back on track
Homeschooling has been slightly scattered this year so far. I didn't set a "schedule" up for myself and have been just kind of winging it. I don't ever make a strict schedule, but more of a guideline for what should happen next each day. I'm trying to get things a little less scattered, so I'm trying to come up with things to do to make that happen.
Step 1 - start doing school in the basement again (where all the school books are supposed to be located, less distractions for me - kitchen, laundry, computer)
That's as far as I've gotten!!! I'll let you know if I ever conquer Step 1 and figure out Step 2. Any suggestions?
***After this morning, I am remembering why school became so scattered to begin with. I cannot stand trying to read aloud to my children while being interrupted numerous times, having to re-read a sentence more than once, breaking up fights in the middle of reading, and getting up to cart a repeat offender off to their room. All of this leads to me showing my sin nature in full. It's ugly and I don't like myself or my children at that point. I can't seem to get past these events happening while I'm trying to read to my kids. Which is why I quit trying to read to them on a regular, scheduled basis. It seems to work better when I take advantage of a moment when a certain child is occupied or a big sister is available to keep said child occupied. Having to wait for those moments makes it impossible to have a "regularly scheduled program".
Step 1 - start doing school in the basement again (where all the school books are supposed to be located, less distractions for me - kitchen, laundry, computer)
That's as far as I've gotten!!! I'll let you know if I ever conquer Step 1 and figure out Step 2. Any suggestions?
***After this morning, I am remembering why school became so scattered to begin with. I cannot stand trying to read aloud to my children while being interrupted numerous times, having to re-read a sentence more than once, breaking up fights in the middle of reading, and getting up to cart a repeat offender off to their room. All of this leads to me showing my sin nature in full. It's ugly and I don't like myself or my children at that point. I can't seem to get past these events happening while I'm trying to read to my kids. Which is why I quit trying to read to them on a regular, scheduled basis. It seems to work better when I take advantage of a moment when a certain child is occupied or a big sister is available to keep said child occupied. Having to wait for those moments makes it impossible to have a "regularly scheduled program".
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Facebook, Politics and the Holy Spirit
I've kicked myself off of Facebook until after the election. I just can't stand politics and really can't stand people telling people how to vote ON FACEBOOK. Not the correct place at all.
My cousin and friend, Melissa, quickly suggested that I blog again. Which is funny because I thought about blogging about an incident just last night. For those of you who actually read my blog when I blog (all 2 of you!), here you go!!! Please comment, because I'm going to be missing my conversations on Facebook!!!
I've been sick for a week and a half. Nothing horrific, just an ugly cold which has me completely exhausted all day long. I fell asleep earlier than normal Tuesday night. Imagine my frustration when I woke up at 11 something and was WIDE awake. Completely wide awake. Eric was flying out very early in the morning for work. I started having horrible thoughts about his plane crashing. I started planning out what in the world I would do if his plane crashed. Started imagining how the kids and I would handle life without him. I realized how very very much I need this man!!! In every single way, I need him. I had been praying about his safety, but at that point, I started begging and pleading with God to keep Eric alive for many many years. We need him. We love him. He is completely necessary to our lives.
I fell back asleep and slept fine. Woke up slightly as he left at 5:30 and then slept until almost 8 (Abigail is a dear and had already made breakfast and fed 3 of the kids, Liza was sleeping with me). I wasn't worried about Eric when I woke up, but prayed some more and went on with my day. I called Eric around 11 when I figured he had landed.
Remember something about Eric - he has flown thousands of hours, both commercial and military. He spent a year in Test Pilot School and for three years, he was a Flight Test Engineer at Edwards AFB, spending some of almost every single day in an airplane. He KNOWS flying. When I called, he told me he was so thankful to be alive and on the ground because that was THE VERY WORST flight he had ever been on. I talked to him a few times during the day and these are the things he told me: he was sure the pilot did not have control over the aircraft at one point, the wings were up and down and forward and backward, they dropped at least 200 feet causing everyone to scream, the lady next to him was crying and crossing herself in fear. He was scared.
I told Abigail about my being awake and his flight. She looked at me and said, "Mom, I woke up and I was scared about Daddy flying today." Another friend told me he had a dream that same night about Eric flying and things weren't good. Then Seth told me he had a dream that Eric's plane had crashed and it caused him to wake up sobbing and he got up at that point and walked around the house (Seth was up at 5:30 in the morning).
I'm slightly freaked out over all of it. This is the third time Eric's called to tell me he's alive and all three times it was due to an airplane issue. I can only think that the Holy Spirit woke me up and cause those dreams. I am very thankful that Eric is fine (he said he never thought he'd be thankful to be driving in LA traffic but he was yesterday!).
He's flying home today. I will be praying!
My cousin and friend, Melissa, quickly suggested that I blog again. Which is funny because I thought about blogging about an incident just last night. For those of you who actually read my blog when I blog (all 2 of you!), here you go!!! Please comment, because I'm going to be missing my conversations on Facebook!!!
I've been sick for a week and a half. Nothing horrific, just an ugly cold which has me completely exhausted all day long. I fell asleep earlier than normal Tuesday night. Imagine my frustration when I woke up at 11 something and was WIDE awake. Completely wide awake. Eric was flying out very early in the morning for work. I started having horrible thoughts about his plane crashing. I started planning out what in the world I would do if his plane crashed. Started imagining how the kids and I would handle life without him. I realized how very very much I need this man!!! In every single way, I need him. I had been praying about his safety, but at that point, I started begging and pleading with God to keep Eric alive for many many years. We need him. We love him. He is completely necessary to our lives.
I fell back asleep and slept fine. Woke up slightly as he left at 5:30 and then slept until almost 8 (Abigail is a dear and had already made breakfast and fed 3 of the kids, Liza was sleeping with me). I wasn't worried about Eric when I woke up, but prayed some more and went on with my day. I called Eric around 11 when I figured he had landed.
Remember something about Eric - he has flown thousands of hours, both commercial and military. He spent a year in Test Pilot School and for three years, he was a Flight Test Engineer at Edwards AFB, spending some of almost every single day in an airplane. He KNOWS flying. When I called, he told me he was so thankful to be alive and on the ground because that was THE VERY WORST flight he had ever been on. I talked to him a few times during the day and these are the things he told me: he was sure the pilot did not have control over the aircraft at one point, the wings were up and down and forward and backward, they dropped at least 200 feet causing everyone to scream, the lady next to him was crying and crossing herself in fear. He was scared.
I told Abigail about my being awake and his flight. She looked at me and said, "Mom, I woke up and I was scared about Daddy flying today." Another friend told me he had a dream that same night about Eric flying and things weren't good. Then Seth told me he had a dream that Eric's plane had crashed and it caused him to wake up sobbing and he got up at that point and walked around the house (Seth was up at 5:30 in the morning).
I'm slightly freaked out over all of it. This is the third time Eric's called to tell me he's alive and all three times it was due to an airplane issue. I can only think that the Holy Spirit woke me up and cause those dreams. I am very thankful that Eric is fine (he said he never thought he'd be thankful to be driving in LA traffic but he was yesterday!).
He's flying home today. I will be praying!
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Burnout
I've had a few questions about why I don't blog much or when am I going to blog again. I don't really have a good answer. Although I have been dealing with a whole lot of complete burnout for a while and just don't feel like I have anything positive to blog about. I thought maybe I could blog about burnout!!!
Burnout. My body, mind and spirit are exhausted. I have done a very poor job of renewing myself in any way for many many years. And it has caught up. I have no desire to homeschool, to clean house, to talk to people, to make meals, to do anything. I want to be left alone. Please don't ask questions, please don't ask me to help you with something, please don't ask me how school is going, please don't even ask me how I'm doing. I don't know. I still do manage to get some school work done with the little ones (the older girls do their work on their own). I still manage to put food on the table, get laundry done, keep the house semi-clean. But my heart isn't in it. I'm going through the motions, sticking with the routine somewhat and getting stuff done. But my attitude stinks. I'm grumbling and complaining internally. I'm discontent.
I had this thought that I would fix all this. I would work out and get in shape (which I actually have been losing weight and even working out far more than I used to, but I have to force myself to work out). I would read my Bible and pray more. I would ... Whatever. It hasn't been working. I'm still worn out, still have a bad attitude. Still don't feel like functioning.
I recognize that a lot of this has to be a spiritual issue. And I am praying lots. But I still can't get out from under my funk. Running away and becoming a hermit really isn't an option here!
I also recognize there are probably some physical issues going on. (Hormonal) I've been exercising, losing weight, taking supplements, cleansing my body, eating healthier. Still not helping.
At this point I feel even more tired, frustrated, exhausted and kind of without hope.
Don't lecture me. Just being real.
Burnout. My body, mind and spirit are exhausted. I have done a very poor job of renewing myself in any way for many many years. And it has caught up. I have no desire to homeschool, to clean house, to talk to people, to make meals, to do anything. I want to be left alone. Please don't ask questions, please don't ask me to help you with something, please don't ask me how school is going, please don't even ask me how I'm doing. I don't know. I still do manage to get some school work done with the little ones (the older girls do their work on their own). I still manage to put food on the table, get laundry done, keep the house semi-clean. But my heart isn't in it. I'm going through the motions, sticking with the routine somewhat and getting stuff done. But my attitude stinks. I'm grumbling and complaining internally. I'm discontent.
I had this thought that I would fix all this. I would work out and get in shape (which I actually have been losing weight and even working out far more than I used to, but I have to force myself to work out). I would read my Bible and pray more. I would ... Whatever. It hasn't been working. I'm still worn out, still have a bad attitude. Still don't feel like functioning.
I recognize that a lot of this has to be a spiritual issue. And I am praying lots. But I still can't get out from under my funk. Running away and becoming a hermit really isn't an option here!
I also recognize there are probably some physical issues going on. (Hormonal) I've been exercising, losing weight, taking supplements, cleansing my body, eating healthier. Still not helping.
At this point I feel even more tired, frustrated, exhausted and kind of without hope.
Don't lecture me. Just being real.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Recipe to Try
This was posted on FB. I figured the only way for me to pin it on Pinterest was to put it on my blog!
Deliciously decadent truffles that are healthy - could it be true? Oh yes, it is! Hope you enjoy these delicious real food truffles too! Mmm!
Raw Almond Butter Truffles
1 cup creamy raw almond butter (I like Maranatha brand)
1/2 cup, plus 2 tbsp raw honey
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 tsp filtered water
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups coconut flour
3 tbsp ground golden flax seed
1/2 tsp sea salt
Optional choices for rolling truffles: Unsweetened shredded coconut or carob, cocoa or raw cacao powder; or dip in melted dark chocolate
In a large bowl, mix together the raw almond butter, honey, coconut oil, water and vanilla until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, mix together the coconut flour, ground flax seed and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and mix well to combine. Use your hands to really knead the dough well to combine all the ingredients together. Then, scoop out tablespoon-size portions and roll into balls using your hands.
Next, roll each truffle in your choice of toppings (such as unsweetened shredded coconut, carob powder, cocoa powder or raw cacao powder). Or melt some dark chocolate and dip each ball into the melted chocolate and place on wax paper to set.
Refrigerate truffles for 30 minutes before serving. Makes about 24 truffles – perfect for parties, or just for fun! Enjoy!
Note: For information about why I only purchase fair trade chocolate and other products, click here: http://www.fairtradeusa.org/products-partne
Raw Almond Butter Truffles (GF)
by The Nourishing Home on Thursday, August 11, 2011 at 7:43pm
Deliciously decadent truffles that are healthy - could it be true? Oh yes, it is! Hope you enjoy these delicious real food truffles too! Mmm!
Raw Almond Butter Truffles
1 cup creamy raw almond butter (I like Maranatha brand)
1/2 cup, plus 2 tbsp raw honey
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 tsp filtered water
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups coconut flour
3 tbsp ground golden flax seed
1/2 tsp sea salt
Optional choices for rolling truffles: Unsweetened shredded coconut or carob, cocoa or raw cacao powder; or dip in melted dark chocolate
In a large bowl, mix together the raw almond butter, honey, coconut oil, water and vanilla until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, mix together the coconut flour, ground flax seed and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and mix well to combine. Use your hands to really knead the dough well to combine all the ingredients together. Then, scoop out tablespoon-size portions and roll into balls using your hands.
Next, roll each truffle in your choice of toppings (such as unsweetened shredded coconut, carob powder, cocoa powder or raw cacao powder). Or melt some dark chocolate and dip each ball into the melted chocolate and place on wax paper to set.
Refrigerate truffles for 30 minutes before serving. Makes about 24 truffles – perfect for parties, or just for fun! Enjoy!
Note: For information about why I only purchase fair trade chocolate and other products, click here: http://www.fairtradeusa.org/products-partne
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
UTI
My baby Liza has a UTI. Poor thing. I've been loading her up on cranberry juice, coconut water, water, homeopaths and anything else I can think of to help her out. I'm trying really hard to avoid antibiotics at this point. Anyone else have experience with this? How long before you would take a kid in? What symptoms would make you take her in?
She had a couple of UTI's as a baby. We had the whole VCUG - kidney reflux tests done. She's fine. We haven't had any issues until recently. I weaned her in August and started working harder at potty training her (she was about 90% there at that point). Potty training quit working. She kept leaking and seemed to have no control over her urine. I gave up! Put her back in pull-ups and figured we'd just wait. (She still pooped on the toilet every time.) She always stunk like urine, strong, nasty urine. I just figured it was her. A couple of weeks ago I started giving her some cranberry tincture I had on hand. It seemed to help a bit with both the potty training and the smell, but I wasn't being extremely consistent about it. Then Sunday she peed her pants at church and kept having to go to the bathroom. I didn't think about it too much - she just does that sometimes. Sunday afternoon she seemed uncomfortable, but nothing completely unusual. I gave her some cranberry and went on my merry way. She woke up Monday morning and cried when she had to pee, peed every few minutes, etc. Classic signs. Poor baby. She's doing better today, but certainly not 100%.
Any advice?
***(Follow up) I tried to take Liza in to the acute care clinic this morning, but it was packed. I didn't have time to sit and wait around, so I came home planning to go back this afternoon/evening. But she seems to be doing MUCH better! Her urine doesn't smell and she isn't complaining and peeing nonstop. I'm adopting a wait and see attitude. If it is worse again in the morning, I will take her back tomorrow. Oh, Mau, I ordered Uricare. I have purchased Native Remedies before, but didn't think of it this time. I might get it as a back up! Thanks!
She had a couple of UTI's as a baby. We had the whole VCUG - kidney reflux tests done. She's fine. We haven't had any issues until recently. I weaned her in August and started working harder at potty training her (she was about 90% there at that point). Potty training quit working. She kept leaking and seemed to have no control over her urine. I gave up! Put her back in pull-ups and figured we'd just wait. (She still pooped on the toilet every time.) She always stunk like urine, strong, nasty urine. I just figured it was her. A couple of weeks ago I started giving her some cranberry tincture I had on hand. It seemed to help a bit with both the potty training and the smell, but I wasn't being extremely consistent about it. Then Sunday she peed her pants at church and kept having to go to the bathroom. I didn't think about it too much - she just does that sometimes. Sunday afternoon she seemed uncomfortable, but nothing completely unusual. I gave her some cranberry and went on my merry way. She woke up Monday morning and cried when she had to pee, peed every few minutes, etc. Classic signs. Poor baby. She's doing better today, but certainly not 100%.
Any advice?
***(Follow up) I tried to take Liza in to the acute care clinic this morning, but it was packed. I didn't have time to sit and wait around, so I came home planning to go back this afternoon/evening. But she seems to be doing MUCH better! Her urine doesn't smell and she isn't complaining and peeing nonstop. I'm adopting a wait and see attitude. If it is worse again in the morning, I will take her back tomorrow. Oh, Mau, I ordered Uricare. I have purchased Native Remedies before, but didn't think of it this time. I might get it as a back up! Thanks!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Frustrations
This past week was LONG. Nothing enormous, just small frustrations and it all added up to me feeling very done.
It started with my engagement ring breaking last Sunday night. Then I got a flat tire. It was dark and there is no cell coverage where the tire went. Thank God I was able to get coverage 10 feet in front of the car. The wind blew part of our kid's play set over. (We despise the wind out here - our trampoline blew away a couple of years ago.) We've had some ongoing HUGE issues at our church and someone wanted to talk about it this week. I didn't. I lost.
It's now Sunday afternoon. I have a raging headache, want to cry for a few hours and am praying this next week is much better!
It started with my engagement ring breaking last Sunday night. Then I got a flat tire. It was dark and there is no cell coverage where the tire went. Thank God I was able to get coverage 10 feet in front of the car. The wind blew part of our kid's play set over. (We despise the wind out here - our trampoline blew away a couple of years ago.) We've had some ongoing HUGE issues at our church and someone wanted to talk about it this week. I didn't. I lost.
It's now Sunday afternoon. I have a raging headache, want to cry for a few hours and am praying this next week is much better!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Current Events
My older girls and I spent 5 days last week in Ohio with one of my dearest friends, Marie. She mentioned that I don't blog much at all, so this one is for Marie! :-)
My in-laws are due in town today and we are having a blizzard. They are driving!!! This is our 3rd snowstorm of the year, so I'm expecting a bit of a long winter here.
We have been super busy since school started this year. I usually work very hard at making sure we don't have stuff scheduled every day. Somehow I've failed this year at that. Well, we aren't supposed to have something every day, but it seems to be working out that way. Every other Monday, Abigail has a friend over to work on science labs. Every other Wednesday we have a world history discussion group at our house. (Which has turned into most Wednesdays.) The girls have piano lessons Thursday mornings. Eric and I have been helping with music at church frequently too. ETC ETC ETC. We're busier than I like.
Well, Marie is calling me, so I will talk on the phone instead of blogging!!!
My in-laws are due in town today and we are having a blizzard. They are driving!!! This is our 3rd snowstorm of the year, so I'm expecting a bit of a long winter here.
We have been super busy since school started this year. I usually work very hard at making sure we don't have stuff scheduled every day. Somehow I've failed this year at that. Well, we aren't supposed to have something every day, but it seems to be working out that way. Every other Monday, Abigail has a friend over to work on science labs. Every other Wednesday we have a world history discussion group at our house. (Which has turned into most Wednesdays.) The girls have piano lessons Thursday mornings. Eric and I have been helping with music at church frequently too. ETC ETC ETC. We're busier than I like.
Well, Marie is calling me, so I will talk on the phone instead of blogging!!!
Monday, September 26, 2011
Motivation, Part II
I love Sally Clarkson. Her books, her blog, her words. She speaks my heart over and over and over again. Her blog today fit perfectly with my post the other day about motivation.
I Heard Him Call Come Follow
“Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise, Thou my inheritance, now and always; Thou and thou only first in my heart, High king of heaven, my treasure thou art.”
I Heard Him Call Come Follow
“Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise, Thou my inheritance, now and always; Thou and thou only first in my heart, High king of heaven, my treasure thou art.”
Friday, September 23, 2011
Motivation
What motivates you? What makes a person get up every day and keep going? I recently had a day where I just had no motivation left. I kept thinking of verses that talk about keeping our eyes on the prize, running the race, etc, but nothing. I finally had a few moments to think about it and I realized that, in my mind, the prize we are running towards is heaven. And frankly, I'm not too worried about getting in (no I'm not trying to be arrogant, I just know where I stand with God). So no motivation there. Then there's rewards in heaven - crowns, mansions, etc. None of which I'm interested in. Now what? WHAT motivates me? What has kept me going for all this time to work at my marriage, homeschool my kids, clean my house, make food, etc?
Some of you know me well enough to know the answer. My husband knew it immediately. Relationships. I value real relationships more than anything in this world. My relationship with Christ, with my husband, with my children, with my friends. The thought of not obeying what Christ has asked of me would hurt our relationship, so I don't want to do it!
Now, can someone help me with a verse that I can put up to remind me of that motivation?
Some of you know me well enough to know the answer. My husband knew it immediately. Relationships. I value real relationships more than anything in this world. My relationship with Christ, with my husband, with my children, with my friends. The thought of not obeying what Christ has asked of me would hurt our relationship, so I don't want to do it!
Now, can someone help me with a verse that I can put up to remind me of that motivation?
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Weaning
I think I mentioned that I weaned Liza recently. It's been a month now since she's nursed. She and I can still have tears over it together (and separately for me). But when I weaned her, I never filled up or felt a let-down. Definitely nothing left. I have been much sadder over all of this than I thought I would be. She is 3 now and I always have another baby by now. And while I don't really want to be pregnant ever again (I'm worn out, old, exhausted, etc), the whole thing is just making me feel OLD. When did I get old?
I think I'll go cry now.
I think I'll go cry now.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Arnica
Before I get into this post, I have to mention that my computer has been unable to connect to the internet for a few weeks. Probably an easy fix, but no time. So I've been stuck using Eric's computer which means I have no links for any blogs, including my own!!! :-) I'm finally making time to figure it out this morning (and I should be doing other things, but whatever).
I am accident prone these days. Anyone else? Last night, I was opening the door to Eric's office and smacked the side of my nose with the door. Don't ask. I have NO idea how I managed to accomplish such a thing. Within about 5 minutes my nose started to swell a bit, just on the side. Oh, and it crunched when the door hit. I was very surprised it didn't bleed, so figured it wasn't too badly hurt. But then I was able to SEE my nose. Not in a mirror, just looking straight out and I could see the swelling. I grabbed the Arnica (a homeopath for those of you who are scratching your heads) and put some on and took some. (Eric about died laughing when I told him - he loves me, really, he does!!) For the next 1/2 hour, I took Arnica and put some on my nose. About an hour later, the swelling was gone and that spot wasn't blue anymore! I love Arnica. I have a barely noticeable spot on my nose today. :-)
I am accident prone these days. Anyone else? Last night, I was opening the door to Eric's office and smacked the side of my nose with the door. Don't ask. I have NO idea how I managed to accomplish such a thing. Within about 5 minutes my nose started to swell a bit, just on the side. Oh, and it crunched when the door hit. I was very surprised it didn't bleed, so figured it wasn't too badly hurt. But then I was able to SEE my nose. Not in a mirror, just looking straight out and I could see the swelling. I grabbed the Arnica (a homeopath for those of you who are scratching your heads) and put some on and took some. (Eric about died laughing when I told him - he loves me, really, he does!!) For the next 1/2 hour, I took Arnica and put some on my nose. About an hour later, the swelling was gone and that spot wasn't blue anymore! I love Arnica. I have a barely noticeable spot on my nose today. :-)
Saturday, August 27, 2011
The Best Laid Plans
My parents have been planning to take my kids camping. The plan has been for them to take them today and come back Monday. To some of you this might not seem like a big deal, but I have never had my kids leave the house, all of them, overnight, at the same time. NEVER. We did have all the kids spend one night at my sister's about 18 months ago. One of those, leave them at 8, come back by 10 the next morning (Liza was still nursing, so I needed to not be gone long). Prior to that, the last time Eric and I had 2 nights without kids was for Eric's class reunion when I was expecting Liza (which ended when my kids called and said Grandma was super sick, couldn't get out of bed, so we hurried home).
Now, having nights alone hasn't been a priority for us. We've figured out how to make our marriage work without it, we're ok, but it sure has sounded nice to be able to watch a movie, by ourselves, prior to 9 p.m. To not have to get up early and feed kids, etc. Maybe even lay around and read a book and not think about food.
This week there have been some enormous issues brought to light in our church. There is a Very Important church meeting due to it. Yep, you guessed it, tonight. Sigh. And now Josiah has a fever. I do believe God is reminding me we are fine without the time off.
Now, having nights alone hasn't been a priority for us. We've figured out how to make our marriage work without it, we're ok, but it sure has sounded nice to be able to watch a movie, by ourselves, prior to 9 p.m. To not have to get up early and feed kids, etc. Maybe even lay around and read a book and not think about food.
This week there have been some enormous issues brought to light in our church. There is a Very Important church meeting due to it. Yep, you guessed it, tonight. Sigh. And now Josiah has a fever. I do believe God is reminding me we are fine without the time off.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Pictures
I figure most people look at my pictures on Facebook. But since some of you don't really know me and some of you *gasp* don't have Facebook (weirdos!!!!), I will post a few here!
I took this one of Eric and Liza at the beach in New Jersey. I just love this picture!
All my kids just loved the beach.
The oldest three got to learn how to surf. I think they are all considering moving to the beach and being surfers permanently.
This is one of my favorite ones of Abigail.
Beka and Liza. Beka is always helping the other kids.
Don't let this picture fool you, this is a very rare, almost unseen moment in life. We will treasure this picture always!!
I took this one of Eric and Liza at the beach in New Jersey. I just love this picture!
All my kids just loved the beach.
The oldest three got to learn how to surf. I think they are all considering moving to the beach and being surfers permanently.
This is one of my favorite ones of Abigail.
Josiah has such a cute grin!!
Beka and Liza. Beka is always helping the other kids.
Don't let this picture fool you, this is a very rare, almost unseen moment in life. We will treasure this picture always!!
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| I can't figure out how to space those last two pictures. Ack. But I did learn there is a "add a caption" thing, so whatever. I love this picture of Beka!! |
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| My boys and their cousin, Caleb. Their poses crack me up! |
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| A sweet picture of Seth and Caleb. |
Allergies
The day after we got home from vacation, my allergies returned with a vengeance. For the last 3 years, I have felt like I'm exhausted all the time. I just assumed it had to do with getting older, 5 kids, etc. Well, NO. I am allergic to Colorado. :-( I felt much better while we were on vacation. I'm back to wanting to stay in bed all day, feeling lazy, unmotivated, burnt out. Sigh. I know I can take meds for it (and am currently on Zyrtec, Benadryl and Nasal Crom - yuck). I'm just wondering if there is anything you can do to stop having allergies. Seems like we should have figured this out by now!!!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Weaning
For those of you who don't know how truly weird I am, this should dispel any myths of me being normal from your mind.
I am in the process of weaning Liza. Yes, she is almost 3. Yes, I have nursed all of my children for more than "normal" (in the US, that is). Just to give you an idea, I have nursed for 11 and a half years total with the 5 kids. Liza has nursed the longest, mainly because I'm not pregnant! I've usually had to wean the kids once I am pregnant, due to pain, contractions, exhaustion, whatever.
So why am I weaning her? I was really ready to be done a couple of months ago, but knew that with this big trip coming up, nursing her would be very very helpful. Which it was. But somewhere in all of this my milk pretty much dried up. Which means nursing her became very painful. VERY painful. If I could have weaned her in the middle of the trip (when she wanted to nurse extra!), I would have.
We got home Saturday evening, Sunday I told her we were going to have to stop having "nu-nu". She took it fine. Monday morning, she woke at 5 and nursed. That was the last time. I talked to her about it later that morning, reminded her that mommy was hurting and we needed to be done. We were both fine.
And then yesterday...she wanted to have nu-nu before her nap, but took it pretty well when I said no. We cuddled, rocked and she was fine. Granted, she didn't take a nap until we got in the car, but that was to be expected! Then last night, bedtime, she fell and hit her head on the floor. She wanted nu-nu, she was crying, I almost gave in, but then she hugged me instead and seemed ok. And that was when I wasn't ok. I started to cry. I have loved nursing my kids. It has been such a special bond with each of them. It always feels so good to be able to "fix" things. And now it is over. We aren't planning on having any more babies, so it is over for good.
So I'm sad and feeling quite old.
I am in the process of weaning Liza. Yes, she is almost 3. Yes, I have nursed all of my children for more than "normal" (in the US, that is). Just to give you an idea, I have nursed for 11 and a half years total with the 5 kids. Liza has nursed the longest, mainly because I'm not pregnant! I've usually had to wean the kids once I am pregnant, due to pain, contractions, exhaustion, whatever.
So why am I weaning her? I was really ready to be done a couple of months ago, but knew that with this big trip coming up, nursing her would be very very helpful. Which it was. But somewhere in all of this my milk pretty much dried up. Which means nursing her became very painful. VERY painful. If I could have weaned her in the middle of the trip (when she wanted to nurse extra!), I would have.
We got home Saturday evening, Sunday I told her we were going to have to stop having "nu-nu". She took it fine. Monday morning, she woke at 5 and nursed. That was the last time. I talked to her about it later that morning, reminded her that mommy was hurting and we needed to be done. We were both fine.
And then yesterday...she wanted to have nu-nu before her nap, but took it pretty well when I said no. We cuddled, rocked and she was fine. Granted, she didn't take a nap until we got in the car, but that was to be expected! Then last night, bedtime, she fell and hit her head on the floor. She wanted nu-nu, she was crying, I almost gave in, but then she hugged me instead and seemed ok. And that was when I wasn't ok. I started to cry. I have loved nursing my kids. It has been such a special bond with each of them. It always feels so good to be able to "fix" things. And now it is over. We aren't planning on having any more babies, so it is over for good.
So I'm sad and feeling quite old.
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