I love Sundays. Just a quiet day to relax and enjoy the family.
This morning I washed Lina's hair in the kitchen sink. My mom used to do that for me quite often when I was growing up. I loved it. But I don't know how my mom did it! It was so hard trying to reach around Lina's head and make sure all of the shampoo was rinsed out. And I had to stand on stool just to be able to reach! But her hair sure looked nice and clean today :)
Miranda wanted to straighten her hair today. Her hair is getting so long! It is almost to her waist when she straightens it. It looked really pretty and she wore her new dress that we got for her at Nordstrom Rack the other day. She is growing up too fast!
We went to church at 11am. Today was the last day for the kids in their Primary classes. Next week they will move up to the next class. They are curious who their new teachers will be. Merek has had Justin and Kelly for teachers since Nursery so I'm a little nervous to see who he gets. He told me tonight when I put him to bed that he was being silly in class and had to sit next to his teacher. :|
Lina is looking forward to her new class because she is sure that they will combine the 10-11 year old girls. This year she has been in a class with just one other girl and 6 boys.
Krish and Bird have both had fabulous teachers this year. I hope they have good ones next year as well.
The new rector was announced for St. Michael's today, too. She will begin on Palm Sunday. We are looking forward to meeting her when she arrives in March. Next Sunday is Mother Ann's last Sunday as the priest.
During Relief Society today, one of the Primary teachers came in looking for a little girl's mom. The little girl had got her finger caught in a folding chair and it was bleeding. I don't know why, but I jumped up and went into the hallway to help. Her pinkie finger nail was just hanging on by a stitch. I took them into the kitchen and had her fun her finger under cold water. There was no ice in the freezer. Mara (the little girl's aunt) went to get the first aid kit. I held the little girl while her mom wrapped some tissue around the fingers to help stop the bleeding. The nail hanging there was really unsettling for the girl. I asked her mom if she wanted me to pull it off. She said yes. I talked to the girl through the whole thing, trying to distract her and help her take her focus off her fingers. Her ring finger had also gotten a little smashed and was bleeding as well. I got the nail off and then we put some antibiotic medicine on it along with bandages on both fingers. Blood doesn't bother me a bit. I guess having had finger injuries myself and with my kids my instinct just kicked in to help. I'm thankful for that, and for the first-aid training I have had to help in situations like that.
After church, we had leftovers for lunch. Puzzle, Seahawk game, making cards . . . just a quiet afternoon. We went out in the backyard for a bit since the sun was out. Brad and I peppered with Miranda's new volleyball and I peppered with her a bit, too, giving pointers on setting and passing the ball. Brad threw the football around with the boys and also playing catch with Krish with the baseball.
Brad made grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup for dinner. Yum! Merek kept telling me he did NOT like potato soup. I said it was fine if he just ate his sandwich. Lina just had the soup, said she didn't want the sandwich.
After dinner, the girls watched Miranda's new Samantha movie. The boys played Star Wars Lego Complete Saga with Brad. Merek watched Dora the Explorer up in the toy room while I worked on mom and dad's calendar. I'm hoping to mail it tomorrow after I pick up the pictures from Costco. I ordered them tonight so they should be ready by noon.
We called Victoria to sing Happy Birthday. Just got the answering machine but we still sang. I talked to mom for a little while on the phone, too. They went over to Tonya's today to take Desiree and Sarianne back home, and to be there for Eliott's ordination. He turned 12 on Friday.
The kids made a list of the things they want to get at the store tomorrow for our New Year's Eve party. We have a family movie night and stay up until midnight. I think maybe I'll try to get everyone to take a nap tomorrow so we can have some quiet down time, too.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Saturday, December 29, 2012
December 29th
Brad and his mom left early this morning to get her to the airport for her flight. The boys were up early, too, They watched some shows on the Disney channel. Ava came over for a piano lesson at 9am. Then the girls and I walked up the Parkway to meet Miranda's friend, Elizabeth, who got a puppy for Christmas. She wanted Miranda to meet Blitzen, a yorkie/shitzuh mix. Miranda and E walked back down to our house to show the boys the puppy, while Lina and I continued up the Parkway and walked to Starbucks. We talked about puppies and dogs and breeding, and ended up having THE talk.
We both got hot cocoas and then walked around the block and back home. It was snowing a bit, just a slushy mix that didn't stick. I started some laundry when we got home and sent a couple of cards (thank you and VT). Then I made a card from some scraps on my table. Brad and the boys played Star Wars Lego Complete Saga on the Kinect.
Merek wanted Mac-n-Cheese for lunch. So I made that and Brad put a plate of fresh veggies on the table, too. I've been reading a book on healthier eating and feel like it would be good to transition to that over the next month. I feel like we need to get all the junky food out of the house. It probably would be a good idea to just throw it away but maybe we'll just eat it all and then buy healthier stuff (wishful thinking).
Miranda's friend, Charlyn, came over so they could work on their Sunday School lesson for tomorrow. The kids in the class are teaching in pairs tomorrow. I can't believe it is already the last Sunday of the year!
Merek wanted me to read him a story, The Shy Little Kitten. So we sat on the sofa in the toy room to read. Afterwards, he asked if he could watch a show. He said I could pick between Doc McStuffins or Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. I chose Doc McStuffins. While he watched, I started working on using up another kit (Paper Posies Sept. 2011). I made two layouts using photos that had been sitting in a basket in my scrap area for awhile (Lina's 2nd grade concert and 1st grade class photo). Then I made four cards and a mini counting calendar for Merek. All the while, Merek watched his show and the other kids came upstairs and watched Sophie the First, too. I still didn't use up the kit but managed to get through enough of it, that I will file the remaining items in my stash and consider it done.
At 5pm, we all got ready to go to the church. Tonight was our family's turn to help with the building cleaning. We got there and worked out a system--the kids collected the erasers and chalk to return to the library, wiped down the boards and folded up the chairs, I collected the garbages, Brad vacuumed, Miranda dusted and cleaned the glass doors. Once we got going it worked pretty well. Another man, Bill, was there and helped, too. It took us about 2 hours. Right when we were about done, Chris, who oversees the cleanings each week, came with his kids to get started. He didn't realize we had come to help and I think it made him happy that we had finished so much of the work. They really didn't have much to do. I'm really glad we went to help so that he could go home and have more time to spend with his family tonight.
We went to dinner at La Costa. Merek wanted a gumball from the machine so bad! But I told him he had to behave during dinner to get one afterwards. Well, he wasn't very well behaved and we had to not get him one. He was so sad! I tried to explain to him that maybe next time he can try again to get a gumball. When we got home, as we walked into the house, he said, "Mom I really want to go back to the restaurant." Poor little guy. We put all the kids to bed as soon as we got home. They have had some late nights.
I folded some laundry and took a long shower. Brad and I watched some of the Gladiator and A Few Good Men--movies that were on TV. I'm looking forward to tomorrow, to Sunday.
We both got hot cocoas and then walked around the block and back home. It was snowing a bit, just a slushy mix that didn't stick. I started some laundry when we got home and sent a couple of cards (thank you and VT). Then I made a card from some scraps on my table. Brad and the boys played Star Wars Lego Complete Saga on the Kinect.
Merek wanted Mac-n-Cheese for lunch. So I made that and Brad put a plate of fresh veggies on the table, too. I've been reading a book on healthier eating and feel like it would be good to transition to that over the next month. I feel like we need to get all the junky food out of the house. It probably would be a good idea to just throw it away but maybe we'll just eat it all and then buy healthier stuff (wishful thinking).
Miranda's friend, Charlyn, came over so they could work on their Sunday School lesson for tomorrow. The kids in the class are teaching in pairs tomorrow. I can't believe it is already the last Sunday of the year!
Merek wanted me to read him a story, The Shy Little Kitten. So we sat on the sofa in the toy room to read. Afterwards, he asked if he could watch a show. He said I could pick between Doc McStuffins or Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. I chose Doc McStuffins. While he watched, I started working on using up another kit (Paper Posies Sept. 2011). I made two layouts using photos that had been sitting in a basket in my scrap area for awhile (Lina's 2nd grade concert and 1st grade class photo). Then I made four cards and a mini counting calendar for Merek. All the while, Merek watched his show and the other kids came upstairs and watched Sophie the First, too. I still didn't use up the kit but managed to get through enough of it, that I will file the remaining items in my stash and consider it done.
At 5pm, we all got ready to go to the church. Tonight was our family's turn to help with the building cleaning. We got there and worked out a system--the kids collected the erasers and chalk to return to the library, wiped down the boards and folded up the chairs, I collected the garbages, Brad vacuumed, Miranda dusted and cleaned the glass doors. Once we got going it worked pretty well. Another man, Bill, was there and helped, too. It took us about 2 hours. Right when we were about done, Chris, who oversees the cleanings each week, came with his kids to get started. He didn't realize we had come to help and I think it made him happy that we had finished so much of the work. They really didn't have much to do. I'm really glad we went to help so that he could go home and have more time to spend with his family tonight.
We went to dinner at La Costa. Merek wanted a gumball from the machine so bad! But I told him he had to behave during dinner to get one afterwards. Well, he wasn't very well behaved and we had to not get him one. He was so sad! I tried to explain to him that maybe next time he can try again to get a gumball. When we got home, as we walked into the house, he said, "Mom I really want to go back to the restaurant." Poor little guy. We put all the kids to bed as soon as we got home. They have had some late nights.
I folded some laundry and took a long shower. Brad and I watched some of the Gladiator and A Few Good Men--movies that were on TV. I'm looking forward to tomorrow, to Sunday.
December 28th
This week is flying by! I think having Christmas on a Tuesday, which felt like a Sunday, made it even more so.
This morning we didn't really do too much. Brad, his mom, and the boys worked on a puzzle. I was getting things done around the house. Lina continues to stay in her room, playing with her new Christmas gifts. Nana wanted to go see Snoqualmie Falls, so we all got ready and headed down to the falls about 11:30am. There was quite a crowd there. It was a beautiful day, with blue skies, and sunshine. The mist was pretty heavy on the observation deck so we all got a little wet. We went down to the lower deck as well and got some pictures down there. The kids hopped around on the rocks. I took a photo of a couple trying to take their own picture.
Nana loves to stop at the gift shop so we went inside to look around. The kids were anxious to spend their Christmas money and found some fun things. Bird bought a t-shirt that has forest animals dressed up like Star Wars characters. It says, "May the FOREST be with you.". Krish and Lina both bought bags of pretty rocks to add to their rock collections. Merek picked out a green leather pouch that looks like a bear. He is happy to have a little purse and asked me if I could give him some money to put inside of it. I gave him a dime and a quarter.
We came home and had leftovers for lunch. Brad and the kids played in the backyard--football, volleyball, soccer. It was such a nice day!
Brad wanted to take his mom to the Microsoft store at Bellevue Square. The boys did NOT want to go to the mall but we convinced them by reminding them of the Lego Store there. They could spend the rest of their Christmas money there. The mall was really crowded. The M's (mom, Miranda, and Merek) headed to Macy's and the rest of the group went to the Microsoft store. Miranda got a cream top to go with a skirt she had from her birthday. I looked but didn't see anything I wanted. On our way back to meet up with the family, we went into the Impress Store. I love stopping in there and seeing all the crafty goodness. I bought a Studio Calico 6x6 Wonderland paper pad that was 40% off. Brad took the boys to the Lego Store, where they each got some new legos, and then we went into Jamba Juice to get everyone a smoothie.
While Brad took his mom to the Oil and Vinegar store, the girls and Merek joined me at Eddie Bauer. I had a gift card from mom and dad to spend there. There was a good sale going on--two tees, two sweaters, and a button-down flannel shirt. And a new necklace, too. (Ok, I spent a little more than my gift card). Brad took the boys into the Mariners' store and Krish got a new set of Mariners' cards. They stopped at the popcorn store, too, for popcorn to share when we got home.
Since it was almost dinnertime, we decided to go to Maggiano's for dinner. But the wait was going to be 1 hr and 15 minutes. We ordered food to go. While we waited, I took the boys to the waterfall structure and the escalators. I let them go up and come back down once by themselves. A woman that got off the escalator after them said to me as she walked by, "They are horribly misbehaved!" Um, wow, thanks for letting me know. It completely made me feel awful and that I am a bad mother. I know what they did to make her say that. Because I saw them go up the escalator and come back down and they weren't doing anything bad. I guess maybe while changing from the up to the down they did something. I don't know. But it made me reevaluate my parenting and maybe some things I can do differently to make sure the kids are well-behaved in public.
Brad told me to go to the Paper Source store while we continued to wait for the food. I browsed around and checked out the holiday items on sale. There was a snowflake punch I thought about buying but ended up putting it back. I can cut out snowflakes with my Slice. I did enjoy looking at the different journals they had there. I met back up with everyone at the elevators and we came home to enjoy our delicious Italian meal.
Krish and Bird went upstairs to work on their new Lego sets. Brad and I visited with his mom while Miranda worked on homework. It was my pick for movie night. So about 8pm, we all gathered in the Family room and watched Despicable Me. We didn't have treats because it was a non-sugar day. We'd had too much junk the previous days and decided we needed a break from unhealthy food.
After the movie the kids all said goodnight and goodbye to Nana. Her flight is early in the morning. We are happy she was able to come and spend Christmas with us.
This morning we didn't really do too much. Brad, his mom, and the boys worked on a puzzle. I was getting things done around the house. Lina continues to stay in her room, playing with her new Christmas gifts. Nana wanted to go see Snoqualmie Falls, so we all got ready and headed down to the falls about 11:30am. There was quite a crowd there. It was a beautiful day, with blue skies, and sunshine. The mist was pretty heavy on the observation deck so we all got a little wet. We went down to the lower deck as well and got some pictures down there. The kids hopped around on the rocks. I took a photo of a couple trying to take their own picture.
Nana loves to stop at the gift shop so we went inside to look around. The kids were anxious to spend their Christmas money and found some fun things. Bird bought a t-shirt that has forest animals dressed up like Star Wars characters. It says, "May the FOREST be with you.". Krish and Lina both bought bags of pretty rocks to add to their rock collections. Merek picked out a green leather pouch that looks like a bear. He is happy to have a little purse and asked me if I could give him some money to put inside of it. I gave him a dime and a quarter.
We came home and had leftovers for lunch. Brad and the kids played in the backyard--football, volleyball, soccer. It was such a nice day!
Brad wanted to take his mom to the Microsoft store at Bellevue Square. The boys did NOT want to go to the mall but we convinced them by reminding them of the Lego Store there. They could spend the rest of their Christmas money there. The mall was really crowded. The M's (mom, Miranda, and Merek) headed to Macy's and the rest of the group went to the Microsoft store. Miranda got a cream top to go with a skirt she had from her birthday. I looked but didn't see anything I wanted. On our way back to meet up with the family, we went into the Impress Store. I love stopping in there and seeing all the crafty goodness. I bought a Studio Calico 6x6 Wonderland paper pad that was 40% off. Brad took the boys to the Lego Store, where they each got some new legos, and then we went into Jamba Juice to get everyone a smoothie.
While Brad took his mom to the Oil and Vinegar store, the girls and Merek joined me at Eddie Bauer. I had a gift card from mom and dad to spend there. There was a good sale going on--two tees, two sweaters, and a button-down flannel shirt. And a new necklace, too. (Ok, I spent a little more than my gift card). Brad took the boys into the Mariners' store and Krish got a new set of Mariners' cards. They stopped at the popcorn store, too, for popcorn to share when we got home.
Since it was almost dinnertime, we decided to go to Maggiano's for dinner. But the wait was going to be 1 hr and 15 minutes. We ordered food to go. While we waited, I took the boys to the waterfall structure and the escalators. I let them go up and come back down once by themselves. A woman that got off the escalator after them said to me as she walked by, "They are horribly misbehaved!" Um, wow, thanks for letting me know. It completely made me feel awful and that I am a bad mother. I know what they did to make her say that. Because I saw them go up the escalator and come back down and they weren't doing anything bad. I guess maybe while changing from the up to the down they did something. I don't know. But it made me reevaluate my parenting and maybe some things I can do differently to make sure the kids are well-behaved in public.
Brad told me to go to the Paper Source store while we continued to wait for the food. I browsed around and checked out the holiday items on sale. There was a snowflake punch I thought about buying but ended up putting it back. I can cut out snowflakes with my Slice. I did enjoy looking at the different journals they had there. I met back up with everyone at the elevators and we came home to enjoy our delicious Italian meal.
Krish and Bird went upstairs to work on their new Lego sets. Brad and I visited with his mom while Miranda worked on homework. It was my pick for movie night. So about 8pm, we all gathered in the Family room and watched Despicable Me. We didn't have treats because it was a non-sugar day. We'd had too much junk the previous days and decided we needed a break from unhealthy food.
After the movie the kids all said goodnight and goodbye to Nana. Her flight is early in the morning. We are happy she was able to come and spend Christmas with us.
Friday, December 28, 2012
December 27th
Another morning of sleeping in--I cannot get used to this schedule! Too many late nights. School break is over in a week so I'd better start readjusting.
We went down to Pier 59 in Seattle today. We tried to go to The Crab Pot and Ivar's Fish House but the waits were too long. So we bought lunch at the Ivar's Fish Bar and ate in the outdoor heated patio. The kids were very excited to see that they COULD feed the seagulls, and saved some of their fries to do just that.
We walked up to Pike's Place and wandered through the market. Throwing fish, tons of produce, and of course a stop at Daily Dozen Doughnuts. THE best donuts ever!
The kids and I went to use the restrooms. I told the boys to wait for me right outside the women's restroom after they were done. I HATE sending my boys into public restrooms! Well, when I came out with Merek some young man was talking to Krish and Bird. I went up and said, "Hi, what are you guys talking about?" The guy looked at me and stammered and then tried to say he was telling them to be the best they could be no matter what. He told me he wasn't a freak. It kind of freaked me out. I told him "Happy Holidays" and we walked away. When I asked Krish what the guy had been saying to them, he told me he couldn't understand what he was saying. I don't know if that was true or if he was just scared to tell me. Scary parenting moment.
We stopped by Beecher's to get some Mac-n-Cheese and then to Piroshky Piroshky for dinner for the kids. Then we drove home.
I worked on some cards, using up my January 2011 Paper Posies kit. I love using up kits.
The kids and Nana stayed home to play games and watch movies while Brad and I went to see The Hobbit. It was in 3D. I thought the movies was good though it probably would have been better if I had read the book first.
When we got home, we found out that Merek had cut his foot after we left. Nana and Miranda had to clean blood out of the carpet. And then Krish threw up all over the powder room. Awesome. Poor Nana and Miranda! They had a lot of cleaning up to do. I did a quick wipe down again of the powder room. Then we tucked all the kiddos in bed. They were exhausted. And so were we.
We went down to Pier 59 in Seattle today. We tried to go to The Crab Pot and Ivar's Fish House but the waits were too long. So we bought lunch at the Ivar's Fish Bar and ate in the outdoor heated patio. The kids were very excited to see that they COULD feed the seagulls, and saved some of their fries to do just that.
We walked up to Pike's Place and wandered through the market. Throwing fish, tons of produce, and of course a stop at Daily Dozen Doughnuts. THE best donuts ever!
The kids and I went to use the restrooms. I told the boys to wait for me right outside the women's restroom after they were done. I HATE sending my boys into public restrooms! Well, when I came out with Merek some young man was talking to Krish and Bird. I went up and said, "Hi, what are you guys talking about?" The guy looked at me and stammered and then tried to say he was telling them to be the best they could be no matter what. He told me he wasn't a freak. It kind of freaked me out. I told him "Happy Holidays" and we walked away. When I asked Krish what the guy had been saying to them, he told me he couldn't understand what he was saying. I don't know if that was true or if he was just scared to tell me. Scary parenting moment.
We stopped by Beecher's to get some Mac-n-Cheese and then to Piroshky Piroshky for dinner for the kids. Then we drove home.
I worked on some cards, using up my January 2011 Paper Posies kit. I love using up kits.
The kids and Nana stayed home to play games and watch movies while Brad and I went to see The Hobbit. It was in 3D. I thought the movies was good though it probably would have been better if I had read the book first.
When we got home, we found out that Merek had cut his foot after we left. Nana and Miranda had to clean blood out of the carpet. And then Krish threw up all over the powder room. Awesome. Poor Nana and Miranda! They had a lot of cleaning up to do. I did a quick wipe down again of the powder room. Then we tucked all the kiddos in bed. They were exhausted. And so were we.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
December 26th
Quick summary of the day:
Slept in.
Chiropractor appointment.
Brad, his mom, Krish, Lina, and Merek went to Krispy Kreme.
Lots of FlashPad 2.0.
Worked on Paper Posies January projects.
MIL, Miranda, Lina, and I went to Factoria Mall to do some shopping. Nordstrom Rack, Claire's, Bath and Body Works, Target.
Boys and dad stayed home to play Kinect games.
Tried on new clothes. All three are too small :( Either take them back or lose 10 pounds.
Miranda's new dress is really cute. I bought her a scarf to go with it.
Lina sad because she lost one of her iTunes gift cards in my room.
Continued working on PP projects. Due tomorrow.
Went out to dinner at iSushi (third trip to Issaquah in one day. Ugh.)
Finished up PP projects. Made two more cards with scraps on my table.
Family watched Tinkerbell movie and Looney Tunes Bah HumDuck.
Lina left me a thank you for taking her shopping, along with a Island Nectar hand santizer.
I found her gift card on the floor by my bed when I went to bed. She'll be happy in the morning :)
Slept in.
Chiropractor appointment.
Brad, his mom, Krish, Lina, and Merek went to Krispy Kreme.
Lots of FlashPad 2.0.
Worked on Paper Posies January projects.
MIL, Miranda, Lina, and I went to Factoria Mall to do some shopping. Nordstrom Rack, Claire's, Bath and Body Works, Target.
Boys and dad stayed home to play Kinect games.
Tried on new clothes. All three are too small :( Either take them back or lose 10 pounds.
Miranda's new dress is really cute. I bought her a scarf to go with it.
Lina sad because she lost one of her iTunes gift cards in my room.
Continued working on PP projects. Due tomorrow.
Went out to dinner at iSushi (third trip to Issaquah in one day. Ugh.)
Finished up PP projects. Made two more cards with scraps on my table.
Family watched Tinkerbell movie and Looney Tunes Bah HumDuck.
Lina left me a thank you for taking her shopping, along with a Island Nectar hand santizer.
I found her gift card on the floor by my bed when I went to bed. She'll be happy in the morning :)
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
December 25th
Merry Christmas!
All was merry and bright here at our house today. No huge, big exciting gifts. Just lots of love, thoughtfulness, and candy.
The kids can wake us up at 7:05am. Although I was already up at 6:30 to bake the Christmas Morning Carmel Rolls. The girls had done their special surprise for the boys, decorating a mini tree with lights in their room. The boys each received a Christmas note and seom Crispy Kringle chocolates. Love that spirit of the holiday that the girls shared with their brothers.
They came downstairs to see what Santa brought for them. They each got a small box of cereal in their stocking. The boys ate theirs for breakfast. Brad made eggs and sausage, too. Then we began to unwrap the other gifts under the tree. I like to see what each person gets. Krish asked yesterday if they could just "dive in and open their presents". But I said no. Appreciation and patience.
The wind has been blowing all day. Snow fell on and off, just little flurries, nothing stuck to the ground. Was so hoping for a white Christmas.
We headed down to the Smith's for dinner about 3pm. Brad had roasted the Prime Rib. I had made deviled eggs. It was a delicious dinner and a wonderful conversation. The kids had a great time playing together. They really had fun with Just Dance Disney.
Merek was SO tired when we got back home. We played two rounds of Wits & Wagers Family and then I put him to bed. He wanted to wear the Spiderman pajamas that were now too small for Bird. We read his counting book and then I sang him his songs. My exhaustion talked me into resting next to him in his bed and we both fell asleep pretty quickly. I woke up a bit later and went downstairs. Brad, his mom, and the other kids were all watching "Brave".
About this time of the year, I reflect back on the year gone by and wonder, "how DID time go by so quickly?"
So much good has come about for me, in a very personal way. A way that I can see myself changing for the better. There are still MANY things that I need to work on, but I am feeling like there is positive changes happening. Each day when I get discouraged or frustrated, I try hard to think of my blessings and what good things I have been able to do. I see so much more good in others, especially Brad and my kids. For that, I am extremely grateful.
Focusing on what REALLY matters in life has helped with my outlook. Trying harder to fulfill my roles as a wife and a mother. Trying to be more present when I am present. Trying to let go of things that don't really have a bigger part of the whole picture.
I am thankful for my many blessings. For my family, our home, my friends. For my faith in God, in something more that encourages me to try a little harder and be aware of more than just myself.
Merry Christmas.
All was merry and bright here at our house today. No huge, big exciting gifts. Just lots of love, thoughtfulness, and candy.
The kids can wake us up at 7:05am. Although I was already up at 6:30 to bake the Christmas Morning Carmel Rolls. The girls had done their special surprise for the boys, decorating a mini tree with lights in their room. The boys each received a Christmas note and seom Crispy Kringle chocolates. Love that spirit of the holiday that the girls shared with their brothers.
They came downstairs to see what Santa brought for them. They each got a small box of cereal in their stocking. The boys ate theirs for breakfast. Brad made eggs and sausage, too. Then we began to unwrap the other gifts under the tree. I like to see what each person gets. Krish asked yesterday if they could just "dive in and open their presents". But I said no. Appreciation and patience.
The wind has been blowing all day. Snow fell on and off, just little flurries, nothing stuck to the ground. Was so hoping for a white Christmas.
We headed down to the Smith's for dinner about 3pm. Brad had roasted the Prime Rib. I had made deviled eggs. It was a delicious dinner and a wonderful conversation. The kids had a great time playing together. They really had fun with Just Dance Disney.
Merek was SO tired when we got back home. We played two rounds of Wits & Wagers Family and then I put him to bed. He wanted to wear the Spiderman pajamas that were now too small for Bird. We read his counting book and then I sang him his songs. My exhaustion talked me into resting next to him in his bed and we both fell asleep pretty quickly. I woke up a bit later and went downstairs. Brad, his mom, and the other kids were all watching "Brave".
About this time of the year, I reflect back on the year gone by and wonder, "how DID time go by so quickly?"
So much good has come about for me, in a very personal way. A way that I can see myself changing for the better. There are still MANY things that I need to work on, but I am feeling like there is positive changes happening. Each day when I get discouraged or frustrated, I try hard to think of my blessings and what good things I have been able to do. I see so much more good in others, especially Brad and my kids. For that, I am extremely grateful.
Focusing on what REALLY matters in life has helped with my outlook. Trying harder to fulfill my roles as a wife and a mother. Trying to be more present when I am present. Trying to let go of things that don't really have a bigger part of the whole picture.
I am thankful for my many blessings. For my family, our home, my friends. For my faith in God, in something more that encourages me to try a little harder and be aware of more than just myself.
Merry Christmas.
Monday, December 24, 2012
December 24th
Happy Christmas Eve!
Last night coughing kept me up so I didn't roll out of bed until 8am. Amy and I were texting back and forth. So happy to have a friend like her.
For breakfast I had a hot cup of wassail. There is still some leftover from the recital. Brad made the boys eggs for breakfast. He and the boys worked on the puzzle in the dining room. Nana was emptying the dishwasher. Thankful for her help.
Brad, his mom, and the girls went to the grocery store. While they were gone, I quickly put together a 2013 calendar for his mom (thank goodness for SRM stickers!). I ordered a dozen photos from this year to pick up at Costco when we headed to Issaquah for the Christmas Eve service. Bird was really wanting my attention. Sometimes I am so torn between spending time with him and having to get something done. Doesn't that seem silly? Why can't I just spend time with him? I felt a crunch to get the calendar done though. I asked him to bring a book over by my table and read to me from "The Book of Three". But he ended up playing with Krish and Merek instead.
After I finished the calendar, I sat down and played Battleship with him.
Brad made a big hoagie sandwich for lunch, along with veggies and spinach dip. After we finished that, we headed out to go caroling to neighbors. We went to 8 houses and took the goody plates with us. It started raining. I'm hoping for snow tomorrow. The forecast says we should get some. Oh, I'm dreaming of a white Christmas!
When we got back from caroling, Merek and I spent a little time together in his room. He was playing with his cars. I rested a bit. We needed to get ready for Christmas Eve service. The kids dressed up so nice--I should have taken a picture!
There was a short rehearsal before the service so when we got to the church, Brad and the kids got out to go to the practice, and Nana went to save us a bench. Miranda and I drove over to Costco to pick up the photos. I always think, "Oh, I'll just run over to Costco." Thirty minutes later we got back to St. Michaels and the parking lot was full. So we went and parked at the school across the street and walked over to the church. Good thing Nana had saved us a seat!
I wasn't really feeling in the Christmas mood, but as soon as we began singing the first song, "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing", chills ran through me and I felt the Christmas spirit. Krish looked very distinguished as Joseph. Merek said he wanted to be a horse but apparently there were no horse costumes because he came out as a rooster again this year. Bird was a good-looking shepherd and Lina was part of the angel choir. It was perfect.
We came home afterwards and got to work on dinner. Well, Brad and his mom got to work on dinner. I looked through the Christmas cards that arrived in today's mail. And helped a little by slicing the bread and putting away some dishes. Brad is such an amazing cook it is better if I just stay out of the kitchen. He made some cod and fettuchini alfredo (homemade sauce) with shrimp.
After dinner the kids were anxious to open their pajamas from Grandma Kathy. But we made them wait until we had dinner dishes cleared and the kitchen cleaned up (that is my job). Finally, we opened the jammies and they all went to change. We watched the DVD of Merek as a wise man, along with other kids portraying the First Christmas. Then I headed upstairs to finish the calendar while Brad, the kids, and his mom finished up some wrapping. Lina came up and helped me put all the numbers on the calendar months. A huge help!
We watched The Nativity video and then put the kids to bed. They are all sleeping in Lina and Bird's room tonight. We are still waiting for them to go to sleep. Hopefully that happens soon because Santa should be arriving in about an hour. I put the Christmas Morning Carmel Rolls in the oven to rise.
Looking forward to tomorrow. I don't worry too much about the kids not going to sleep . . . I well remember anxiously waiting on Christmas Eve night and not falling asleep easily. :)
Last night coughing kept me up so I didn't roll out of bed until 8am. Amy and I were texting back and forth. So happy to have a friend like her.
For breakfast I had a hot cup of wassail. There is still some leftover from the recital. Brad made the boys eggs for breakfast. He and the boys worked on the puzzle in the dining room. Nana was emptying the dishwasher. Thankful for her help.
Brad, his mom, and the girls went to the grocery store. While they were gone, I quickly put together a 2013 calendar for his mom (thank goodness for SRM stickers!). I ordered a dozen photos from this year to pick up at Costco when we headed to Issaquah for the Christmas Eve service. Bird was really wanting my attention. Sometimes I am so torn between spending time with him and having to get something done. Doesn't that seem silly? Why can't I just spend time with him? I felt a crunch to get the calendar done though. I asked him to bring a book over by my table and read to me from "The Book of Three". But he ended up playing with Krish and Merek instead.
After I finished the calendar, I sat down and played Battleship with him.
Brad made a big hoagie sandwich for lunch, along with veggies and spinach dip. After we finished that, we headed out to go caroling to neighbors. We went to 8 houses and took the goody plates with us. It started raining. I'm hoping for snow tomorrow. The forecast says we should get some. Oh, I'm dreaming of a white Christmas!
When we got back from caroling, Merek and I spent a little time together in his room. He was playing with his cars. I rested a bit. We needed to get ready for Christmas Eve service. The kids dressed up so nice--I should have taken a picture!
There was a short rehearsal before the service so when we got to the church, Brad and the kids got out to go to the practice, and Nana went to save us a bench. Miranda and I drove over to Costco to pick up the photos. I always think, "Oh, I'll just run over to Costco." Thirty minutes later we got back to St. Michaels and the parking lot was full. So we went and parked at the school across the street and walked over to the church. Good thing Nana had saved us a seat!
I wasn't really feeling in the Christmas mood, but as soon as we began singing the first song, "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing", chills ran through me and I felt the Christmas spirit. Krish looked very distinguished as Joseph. Merek said he wanted to be a horse but apparently there were no horse costumes because he came out as a rooster again this year. Bird was a good-looking shepherd and Lina was part of the angel choir. It was perfect.
We came home afterwards and got to work on dinner. Well, Brad and his mom got to work on dinner. I looked through the Christmas cards that arrived in today's mail. And helped a little by slicing the bread and putting away some dishes. Brad is such an amazing cook it is better if I just stay out of the kitchen. He made some cod and fettuchini alfredo (homemade sauce) with shrimp.
After dinner the kids were anxious to open their pajamas from Grandma Kathy. But we made them wait until we had dinner dishes cleared and the kitchen cleaned up (that is my job). Finally, we opened the jammies and they all went to change. We watched the DVD of Merek as a wise man, along with other kids portraying the First Christmas. Then I headed upstairs to finish the calendar while Brad, the kids, and his mom finished up some wrapping. Lina came up and helped me put all the numbers on the calendar months. A huge help!
We watched The Nativity video and then put the kids to bed. They are all sleeping in Lina and Bird's room tonight. We are still waiting for them to go to sleep. Hopefully that happens soon because Santa should be arriving in about an hour. I put the Christmas Morning Carmel Rolls in the oven to rise.
Looking forward to tomorrow. I don't worry too much about the kids not going to sleep . . . I well remember anxiously waiting on Christmas Eve night and not falling asleep easily. :)
Sunday, December 23, 2012
December 23rd
Last night I could not go to sleep after heading to bed. That is one of the most frustrating things. Because then I get frustrated and that riles me up so sleep is even farther away. Wordament on my Windows phone is my friend at times like that.
At 6:30am this morning, I finally just got up out of bed. I'd been tossing and turning for hours. No sense in just lying there with things running through my mind and not sleeping. I came downstairs. Krish and Bird were up. They played Wordament with me for about 20 minutes then Merek came downstairs. I made him some toast and hot cocoa. It was a morning to sleep in for Brad and the girls. They all got up around 8:30am. Gotta love Sunday mornings for that.
We got ready for church at St. Michael's. When we arrived, we received some scary news. Mother Ann (the priest) was in the hospital with blood clots in her lungs. She is set to retire early January and this was to be her last Christmas services with the congregation. Life can take some unexpected turns sometimes. The priest who will be interim until the new rector begins in the Spring conducted the service today, and will be there tomorrow for the Christmas Eve services. She did a nice job with her sermon and helping us feel calm and comforted as we worry about Mother Ann.
Tomorrow is the Christmas Eve pageant. Krish is going to be Joseph. Lina will be an angel. I'm not sure what Bird and Merek's parts are. They had a little rehearsal after church for the main roles. I got to visit with Erin, who is home from college. She used to work in the nursery when Bird was in there. He wouldn't go into the nursery unless Erin was in there.
After church, while the kids were eating snacks, Irene brought in a plate of cupcakes. She asked the kids, "does anyone want a cupcake?" It was so funny to see all the kids' faces light up and "ooohhh" escape their lips. Of course, they wanted cupcakes!
We headed home and I immediately got to work on treats for our caroling goody plates. I made fudge, perppermint bark, Magic Cookie Bars, big soft ginger cookies, sugar cookies, and Fritos No-Bake snacks. The girls helped a little bit, and Nana was a big help keeping the dishes in the sink washed so we could reuse bowls and cookie sheets. In all, we baked and decorated for about four hours. It was actually pretty fun. I have no idea what the boys and Brad were doing during that time. Oh wait, they were out in the backyard for about an hour playing football. I think they worked on the puzzle in the dining room, too. Krish loves doing puzzles. It is one way to help him channel his endless energy.
Brad was making pork chops for dinner. I made mom's brown rice. The Seahawks game started at 5:30-ish. They watched a little of it before dinner but then taped the rest. We made up goody plates for caroling and headed out the door about 6:30.
Fletcher
Robinson
Beck
Heinz
Lane
McNames
Mather
Krivanec
Mullins
Huseman
Christensen
Miller
Johnston
Helman
Query
Kinghorn
We got to all those houses in a little over an hour. Only a few of them weren't there. Caroling is a tradition my family did while I was growing up and I think it is fun for our family to do it together. People seem so happy when we come by to sing. I even got to hold little Miss Maya when we stopped by their house (though she cried and wasn't very happy for me to hold her). We'll go to a handful more houses in the neighborhood tomorrow.
The girls are busy planning some special surprise for the boys on Christmas morning. They have big plans to make the morning extra-exciting for their brothers. I love seeing them do that.
Merek was very tired tonight after caroling. He came home, ate a few little snacks, and then went to get his blanket. He laid down on the floor next to me while I was checking the weather forecast online. I carried him upstairs, helped him brush his teeth, and tucked him into bed. He still likes me to sing his five songs and help him say his prayer. I love those quiet, tender moments with him.
Off to wrap those presents . . .
At 6:30am this morning, I finally just got up out of bed. I'd been tossing and turning for hours. No sense in just lying there with things running through my mind and not sleeping. I came downstairs. Krish and Bird were up. They played Wordament with me for about 20 minutes then Merek came downstairs. I made him some toast and hot cocoa. It was a morning to sleep in for Brad and the girls. They all got up around 8:30am. Gotta love Sunday mornings for that.
We got ready for church at St. Michael's. When we arrived, we received some scary news. Mother Ann (the priest) was in the hospital with blood clots in her lungs. She is set to retire early January and this was to be her last Christmas services with the congregation. Life can take some unexpected turns sometimes. The priest who will be interim until the new rector begins in the Spring conducted the service today, and will be there tomorrow for the Christmas Eve services. She did a nice job with her sermon and helping us feel calm and comforted as we worry about Mother Ann.
Tomorrow is the Christmas Eve pageant. Krish is going to be Joseph. Lina will be an angel. I'm not sure what Bird and Merek's parts are. They had a little rehearsal after church for the main roles. I got to visit with Erin, who is home from college. She used to work in the nursery when Bird was in there. He wouldn't go into the nursery unless Erin was in there.
After church, while the kids were eating snacks, Irene brought in a plate of cupcakes. She asked the kids, "does anyone want a cupcake?" It was so funny to see all the kids' faces light up and "ooohhh" escape their lips. Of course, they wanted cupcakes!
We headed home and I immediately got to work on treats for our caroling goody plates. I made fudge, perppermint bark, Magic Cookie Bars, big soft ginger cookies, sugar cookies, and Fritos No-Bake snacks. The girls helped a little bit, and Nana was a big help keeping the dishes in the sink washed so we could reuse bowls and cookie sheets. In all, we baked and decorated for about four hours. It was actually pretty fun. I have no idea what the boys and Brad were doing during that time. Oh wait, they were out in the backyard for about an hour playing football. I think they worked on the puzzle in the dining room, too. Krish loves doing puzzles. It is one way to help him channel his endless energy.
Brad was making pork chops for dinner. I made mom's brown rice. The Seahawks game started at 5:30-ish. They watched a little of it before dinner but then taped the rest. We made up goody plates for caroling and headed out the door about 6:30.
Fletcher
Robinson
Beck
Heinz
Lane
McNames
Mather
Krivanec
Mullins
Huseman
Christensen
Miller
Johnston
Helman
Query
Kinghorn
We got to all those houses in a little over an hour. Only a few of them weren't there. Caroling is a tradition my family did while I was growing up and I think it is fun for our family to do it together. People seem so happy when we come by to sing. I even got to hold little Miss Maya when we stopped by their house (though she cried and wasn't very happy for me to hold her). We'll go to a handful more houses in the neighborhood tomorrow.
The girls are busy planning some special surprise for the boys on Christmas morning. They have big plans to make the morning extra-exciting for their brothers. I love seeing them do that.
Merek was very tired tonight after caroling. He came home, ate a few little snacks, and then went to get his blanket. He laid down on the floor next to me while I was checking the weather forecast online. I carried him upstairs, helped him brush his teeth, and tucked him into bed. He still likes me to sing his five songs and help him say his prayer. I love those quiet, tender moments with him.
Off to wrap those presents . . .
December 22nd
Up-and-at'em this morning! No rest for the weary. Things to do, places to go . . . Brad's mom arrived today for Christmas. We had to get the house clean and do some shopping before her plane landed.
I got up and ready to go. The kids had done a good job yesterday of cleaning their rooms and their bathroom. I had picked up most of the downstairs. Brad cleaned our room and bathroom this morning. Originally our plan was to go out and do some shopping together but we decided to go solo, one at a time, so Miranda wouldn't have to hold down the fort by herself for so long.
There were just a few more things on our list of things to get. Instead of heading to major shopping centers, I went to the outlets, Birches Habitat, and Safeway in North Bend. I like to try to stay local and support our area businesses. We have a picture for Brad's mom of her three kids together this summer so I bought a frame for that. At the outlets, I picked up a couple of last-minute items for Brad and chocolate-covered gummy bears that Krish and Lina like. At Safeway, candy and a few stocking stuffers.
When I got home, Brad left to do his shopping. The kids and I finished picking things up and working on getting gifts organized. We wrapped some things and put them under the tree. Amazon dropped off five big packages. The boys helped me take them up to my bedroom. I kept the laundry going.
Kori dropped off Lucky for Miranda to babysit for about an hour. He was so happy and cute! He is about 15 months old and at that age where he mimics sounds. He would copy the kids' laugh. Megan came over about 4:30pm. She wanted to see the kids before she heads back to college in January. We had arranged for her to come over while we went to pick up Brad's mom. The kids were very excited to see Megan. She gave them "Arthur's Christmas" for a gift and they watched that with her after eating dinner.
Brad and I headed down to the airport. We picked up his mom and were planning to take her to dinner. But since Brad had booked her flight, she had his status to fly and was bumped up to First Class. She was fed dinner on the plane and wasn't hungry. But we were! The traffic to Southcenter was crazy so we decided just to go to Issaquah and stop there. Brad chose Five Guys. Man, they have good burgers. I'm really not a burger fan, but I do like a good burger :) His mom wanted to get some things for the kids for Christmas so we stopped at Target. Then she wanted to go to Trader Joe's, too, to get some treats for the kids.
When we got home, the kids were thrilled to see Nana. Megan stayed for a bit and we visited with her, too. I'm so glad she is going back to college. It's hard for her because she gets very homesick. But I know she has a good time at college. The kids ate Nana's treats and then we rounded them all up for bed. After all were tucked in tight, I went through the gifts and wrapped one thing for each of the kids. I discovered a couple of mistakes! I forgot to get the 6th book in the How To Train Your Dragon series for Krish. So he'll get 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8. Oh well! And I thought I had ordered the Captain Underpants series for Bird--but apparently I didn't. It wasn't in the Scholastic bag order with Miranda's Found series. Thankfully I do have the Turkey Bowl book and a Calvin & Hobbes book for Bird.
My plan is to wrap one gift for each of them tonight and then tomorrow I'll just have one for each to wrap and be done. Santa leaves his gifts unwrapped :) I think he is leaving two things for each of the kids.
Each year I make a photo calendar for my parents for Christmas. It's not done yet--sorry, Mom! I'll try to get it done by January 1st. I told Brad I would do one for his mom, too, and I haven't even started. Maybe I'll have time tomorrow after church to work on them.
I got up and ready to go. The kids had done a good job yesterday of cleaning their rooms and their bathroom. I had picked up most of the downstairs. Brad cleaned our room and bathroom this morning. Originally our plan was to go out and do some shopping together but we decided to go solo, one at a time, so Miranda wouldn't have to hold down the fort by herself for so long.
There were just a few more things on our list of things to get. Instead of heading to major shopping centers, I went to the outlets, Birches Habitat, and Safeway in North Bend. I like to try to stay local and support our area businesses. We have a picture for Brad's mom of her three kids together this summer so I bought a frame for that. At the outlets, I picked up a couple of last-minute items for Brad and chocolate-covered gummy bears that Krish and Lina like. At Safeway, candy and a few stocking stuffers.
When I got home, Brad left to do his shopping. The kids and I finished picking things up and working on getting gifts organized. We wrapped some things and put them under the tree. Amazon dropped off five big packages. The boys helped me take them up to my bedroom. I kept the laundry going.
Kori dropped off Lucky for Miranda to babysit for about an hour. He was so happy and cute! He is about 15 months old and at that age where he mimics sounds. He would copy the kids' laugh. Megan came over about 4:30pm. She wanted to see the kids before she heads back to college in January. We had arranged for her to come over while we went to pick up Brad's mom. The kids were very excited to see Megan. She gave them "Arthur's Christmas" for a gift and they watched that with her after eating dinner.
Brad and I headed down to the airport. We picked up his mom and were planning to take her to dinner. But since Brad had booked her flight, she had his status to fly and was bumped up to First Class. She was fed dinner on the plane and wasn't hungry. But we were! The traffic to Southcenter was crazy so we decided just to go to Issaquah and stop there. Brad chose Five Guys. Man, they have good burgers. I'm really not a burger fan, but I do like a good burger :) His mom wanted to get some things for the kids for Christmas so we stopped at Target. Then she wanted to go to Trader Joe's, too, to get some treats for the kids.
When we got home, the kids were thrilled to see Nana. Megan stayed for a bit and we visited with her, too. I'm so glad she is going back to college. It's hard for her because she gets very homesick. But I know she has a good time at college. The kids ate Nana's treats and then we rounded them all up for bed. After all were tucked in tight, I went through the gifts and wrapped one thing for each of the kids. I discovered a couple of mistakes! I forgot to get the 6th book in the How To Train Your Dragon series for Krish. So he'll get 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8. Oh well! And I thought I had ordered the Captain Underpants series for Bird--but apparently I didn't. It wasn't in the Scholastic bag order with Miranda's Found series. Thankfully I do have the Turkey Bowl book and a Calvin & Hobbes book for Bird.
My plan is to wrap one gift for each of them tonight and then tomorrow I'll just have one for each to wrap and be done. Santa leaves his gifts unwrapped :) I think he is leaving two things for each of the kids.
Each year I make a photo calendar for my parents for Christmas. It's not done yet--sorry, Mom! I'll try to get it done by January 1st. I told Brad I would do one for his mom, too, and I haven't even started. Maybe I'll have time tomorrow after church to work on them.
Friday, December 21, 2012
December 21st
Well, I guess it's not the end of the world. And I'm feeling about 80% better. Still have a lingering cough that rattles down in my chest. Makes me a little worried, having had pneumonia before. However, I don't have that burning feeling so I think it's just clearing out from all the sickies this week.
I made the kids hot cocoa for breakfast and gave them some pretzel rolls with pear jam. I got started writing addresses on the Christmas cards. The girls got up and I put Miranda to work writing our Christmas letter. Lina and Krish helped by putting return address labels and stamps on the envelopes.
Merek had a dentist appointment at 10am. I took him down and sat with him through the appointment. He is such a good patiend! Once he realized this doctor did not give him shots, he was fine. He really did such a good job listening to the dental assistant and doing what she asked. I had to get impressions for new night guards done as well. The one I have now is cracked (hmmm, who is clenching their teeth too hard at night?).
When we arrived back home, I continued working on the cards. I printed out the letters and Krish helped me fold them. We stuffed the envelopes and got them ready to mail. Miranda went down to feed the pets with Krish. I had a piano lesson with Adam at 1pm. Merek had a melt down during the lesson so I had to excuse myself to go help him. That was a little frustrating but I guess it comes with working at home.
I wrapped up mom and dad's gifts, then we all got in the van and headed back to the dentist's office. The other four kids had their appointments. It was crazy with four kids at the office. They were a little loud. Bird and Lina both had a great report, but Krish and Miranda had cavities. :(
On Sunday I had signed up to take dinner to the missionaires tonight but our appointments at the dentist took longer than I thought. So I ordered pizza to pick up. When we got home, I grabbed the Christmas cards, packed up mom and dad's gifts, and headed down to the post office. Thankfully in our small town there isn't a forever-long line at the post office. Got the cards and package mailed. Then I picked up the pizzas (ordered an extra one for the kids) and dropped one off to the sisters along with stuffed cheesy bread. Hope they don't mind the convenience of the meal. My kids were thrilled to get pizza and cheesy bread.
Miranda left to go babysit for the Johnsons. Krish and I walked down to get the mail. Brad got home then. We received quite a few cards today. One from Paige's parents brought tears to my eyes.
It was Merek's movie night. He picked Diego's Adventures to watch. When that finished, he wanted to watch Dora. Now the kids are up in our room watching Alice in Wonderland, Brad and I are finally watching The Amazing Race finale from the 9th. I'm feeling a little better but still coughing with a headache.
I made the kids hot cocoa for breakfast and gave them some pretzel rolls with pear jam. I got started writing addresses on the Christmas cards. The girls got up and I put Miranda to work writing our Christmas letter. Lina and Krish helped by putting return address labels and stamps on the envelopes.
Merek had a dentist appointment at 10am. I took him down and sat with him through the appointment. He is such a good patiend! Once he realized this doctor did not give him shots, he was fine. He really did such a good job listening to the dental assistant and doing what she asked. I had to get impressions for new night guards done as well. The one I have now is cracked (hmmm, who is clenching their teeth too hard at night?).
When we arrived back home, I continued working on the cards. I printed out the letters and Krish helped me fold them. We stuffed the envelopes and got them ready to mail. Miranda went down to feed the pets with Krish. I had a piano lesson with Adam at 1pm. Merek had a melt down during the lesson so I had to excuse myself to go help him. That was a little frustrating but I guess it comes with working at home.
I wrapped up mom and dad's gifts, then we all got in the van and headed back to the dentist's office. The other four kids had their appointments. It was crazy with four kids at the office. They were a little loud. Bird and Lina both had a great report, but Krish and Miranda had cavities. :(
On Sunday I had signed up to take dinner to the missionaires tonight but our appointments at the dentist took longer than I thought. So I ordered pizza to pick up. When we got home, I grabbed the Christmas cards, packed up mom and dad's gifts, and headed down to the post office. Thankfully in our small town there isn't a forever-long line at the post office. Got the cards and package mailed. Then I picked up the pizzas (ordered an extra one for the kids) and dropped one off to the sisters along with stuffed cheesy bread. Hope they don't mind the convenience of the meal. My kids were thrilled to get pizza and cheesy bread.
Miranda left to go babysit for the Johnsons. Krish and I walked down to get the mail. Brad got home then. We received quite a few cards today. One from Paige's parents brought tears to my eyes.
It was Merek's movie night. He picked Diego's Adventures to watch. When that finished, he wanted to watch Dora. Now the kids are up in our room watching Alice in Wonderland, Brad and I are finally watching The Amazing Race finale from the 9th. I'm feeling a little better but still coughing with a headache.
December 20th
Ugh. Really sick again. I tried to get out of bed to have breakfast with the kids but only lasted about 20 minutes. I told the kids they could have a free day but no screen time.
Krish left for a birthday party about 11am. That helped with the noise level.
My goal was to work on the Christmas cards today but I just couldn't do it. There were some packages that I had printed off postage for last night and needed to go out today. So I dragged myself out of bed and had Miranda come with me to the Post Office. She took the packages in for me.
I was scheduled for a chiropractor appt. at 2:30pm. I called and told him I was sick but he said to come in because sometimes an adjustment can help with the fever and raise white blood cell counts to help fight off the infection. So I went. He adjusted my neck and stretched out my back. Then I got to sit in the massage chair for 20 minutes. And just about fell asleep.
Then I came back home and went back to bed. Lina and Bird made a little stand next to my bed with a photo, sweet note, water, and an orange. They are the best kids!
I pretty much slept the rest of the day. Brad came home about 5pm and he took the kids over to the Mather's to watch the Poinsettia Bowl game. Miranda had left a little earlier to go see The Hobbit with some friends. While they were all gone, I rested. I started feeling a little better (maybe from the adjustment?), and did two loads of laundry, printed out some photos, and return address labels for the Christmas cards. Then I sat on the couch and watch the football game until Brad and the kids got home.
We got the kids to bed and then went to bed.
Krish left for a birthday party about 11am. That helped with the noise level.
My goal was to work on the Christmas cards today but I just couldn't do it. There were some packages that I had printed off postage for last night and needed to go out today. So I dragged myself out of bed and had Miranda come with me to the Post Office. She took the packages in for me.
I was scheduled for a chiropractor appt. at 2:30pm. I called and told him I was sick but he said to come in because sometimes an adjustment can help with the fever and raise white blood cell counts to help fight off the infection. So I went. He adjusted my neck and stretched out my back. Then I got to sit in the massage chair for 20 minutes. And just about fell asleep.
Then I came back home and went back to bed. Lina and Bird made a little stand next to my bed with a photo, sweet note, water, and an orange. They are the best kids!
I pretty much slept the rest of the day. Brad came home about 5pm and he took the kids over to the Mather's to watch the Poinsettia Bowl game. Miranda had left a little earlier to go see The Hobbit with some friends. While they were all gone, I rested. I started feeling a little better (maybe from the adjustment?), and did two loads of laundry, printed out some photos, and return address labels for the Christmas cards. Then I sat on the couch and watch the football game until Brad and the kids got home.
We got the kids to bed and then went to bed.
December 19th
It was really hard to drag myself out of bed this morning to drive Miranda to Jazz Band at 6:10am. I had taken some ibuprofen and Nyquil before going to bed last night. I slept pretty soundly.
The temps were cold as we left and a light snow was falling but the roads were bare. She had bought some doughnuts at the store last night because Jazz Band was having a breakfast this morning together. After I dropped her off, I went to North Bend to get gas in van. It was running on empty. I had a $1/gallon off at Safeway. That dropped my gas price to $2.54/gallon. There is a Starbucks right there at the gas station. I had sent in a card and gas gift card for her band teacher (he drives 100 miles to school and back every day!). But I felt badly she didn't have other things for her teachers. I picked up some chocolate peppermint grahams and stackable cups, plus a pack of $5 gift cards.
When I got home, I put gift tags on all the gifts plus one of the $5 gift cards on each. We were going down to the school later that morning for the Recognition Assembly. I also got the other kids' teacher gift cards and Christmas cards together. The kids each picked out which handmade card they wanted to give to their teacher and we put everything together after they wrote messages in them.
The snow had been falling all morning and by 8am we had 2 inches on the ground. I kept checking the school website and buses were only running snow routes in North Bend. So I got the other kids all ready and we headed up to the bus stop. We waited 10 minutes before deciding the bus wasn't coming. The snow was coming down heavily and the wind was blowing. It was pretty miserable. Krish was worried he would miss his bus to the field trip. We all piled into the car (thankfully I had already gotten myself and Merek ready) and headed down to school. The roads were a mess. Cars were crawling along. Our normal 6-minute drive to the school took 25 minutes. I was SO worried we would be late for Miranda's assembly! But I tried to stay calm and not get upset. We dropped the kids off and headed to the Middle School. The snow was still coming down. Merek was mad because his pants had gotten wet while we were at the bus stop and he wanted to change them before we left. But we didn't have time so I told him we'd have to wait until we got back home.
We made it to the middle school in time. And go the perfect seat in the bleachers right by where the kids stand when they are called up for their certificates. I was happy to sit there because it allowed me to snap photos of Miranda when she got her awards. Can I brag a bit? She was one of five 8th graders to receive a perfect 4.0gpa first trimester, AND she had perfect attendance. I'm so proud of her and how hard she works to get good grades. School is not easy for her. She studies and works on homework about two hours everyday.
Several parents left during the assembly as the snow kept falling. We stayed until the end and I'm glad we did! The principal announced that the Parkway and I-90 were closed. We had no way to get home! We lingered a bit and I gave Miranda the gifts to give her teachers. By the time we got to our car and drove down to the Parkway it was opened up again. We barely made it up the hill into our neighborhood. The roads were pretty slick. Brad headed into work. He emailed me and said it was just our town and East that were bad.
I talked on the phone for about an hour with Heather. She was nervous about the kids on the field trip. We both agreed that the weather was going to get better by noon. And it did--the snow turned to rain and the roads turned slushy. By the time I left to take Merek to preschool, everything was fine. I dropped him off and then headed to the kids' school to help with Bird and Krish's class holiday parties. I ran the BINGO table in Bird's class. Then I went to pick up Miranda from school. She came back with me to Krish's class and we did the poinsettia pinata project with the kids.
By the time we got home, I was exhausted! I had to lie down and rest for a little while. We had left over soup for dinner. After the kids were in bed, I ordered several gifts from Amazon for the kids. Thankfully they offered me a free Prime membership for the next month. Whoo hoo! Free two-day shipping. Everything should be here by Saturday, except one gift should arrive on Christmas Eve.
I've started coughing and decided to take some Nyquil again before bed. Anyone who knows me well knows that I cannot stand Nyquil, and I must be really sick to take it. I shiver everytime I drink the stuff.
The temps were cold as we left and a light snow was falling but the roads were bare. She had bought some doughnuts at the store last night because Jazz Band was having a breakfast this morning together. After I dropped her off, I went to North Bend to get gas in van. It was running on empty. I had a $1/gallon off at Safeway. That dropped my gas price to $2.54/gallon. There is a Starbucks right there at the gas station. I had sent in a card and gas gift card for her band teacher (he drives 100 miles to school and back every day!). But I felt badly she didn't have other things for her teachers. I picked up some chocolate peppermint grahams and stackable cups, plus a pack of $5 gift cards.
When I got home, I put gift tags on all the gifts plus one of the $5 gift cards on each. We were going down to the school later that morning for the Recognition Assembly. I also got the other kids' teacher gift cards and Christmas cards together. The kids each picked out which handmade card they wanted to give to their teacher and we put everything together after they wrote messages in them.
The snow had been falling all morning and by 8am we had 2 inches on the ground. I kept checking the school website and buses were only running snow routes in North Bend. So I got the other kids all ready and we headed up to the bus stop. We waited 10 minutes before deciding the bus wasn't coming. The snow was coming down heavily and the wind was blowing. It was pretty miserable. Krish was worried he would miss his bus to the field trip. We all piled into the car (thankfully I had already gotten myself and Merek ready) and headed down to school. The roads were a mess. Cars were crawling along. Our normal 6-minute drive to the school took 25 minutes. I was SO worried we would be late for Miranda's assembly! But I tried to stay calm and not get upset. We dropped the kids off and headed to the Middle School. The snow was still coming down. Merek was mad because his pants had gotten wet while we were at the bus stop and he wanted to change them before we left. But we didn't have time so I told him we'd have to wait until we got back home.
We made it to the middle school in time. And go the perfect seat in the bleachers right by where the kids stand when they are called up for their certificates. I was happy to sit there because it allowed me to snap photos of Miranda when she got her awards. Can I brag a bit? She was one of five 8th graders to receive a perfect 4.0gpa first trimester, AND she had perfect attendance. I'm so proud of her and how hard she works to get good grades. School is not easy for her. She studies and works on homework about two hours everyday.
Several parents left during the assembly as the snow kept falling. We stayed until the end and I'm glad we did! The principal announced that the Parkway and I-90 were closed. We had no way to get home! We lingered a bit and I gave Miranda the gifts to give her teachers. By the time we got to our car and drove down to the Parkway it was opened up again. We barely made it up the hill into our neighborhood. The roads were pretty slick. Brad headed into work. He emailed me and said it was just our town and East that were bad.
I talked on the phone for about an hour with Heather. She was nervous about the kids on the field trip. We both agreed that the weather was going to get better by noon. And it did--the snow turned to rain and the roads turned slushy. By the time I left to take Merek to preschool, everything was fine. I dropped him off and then headed to the kids' school to help with Bird and Krish's class holiday parties. I ran the BINGO table in Bird's class. Then I went to pick up Miranda from school. She came back with me to Krish's class and we did the poinsettia pinata project with the kids.
By the time we got home, I was exhausted! I had to lie down and rest for a little while. We had left over soup for dinner. After the kids were in bed, I ordered several gifts from Amazon for the kids. Thankfully they offered me a free Prime membership for the next month. Whoo hoo! Free two-day shipping. Everything should be here by Saturday, except one gift should arrive on Christmas Eve.
I've started coughing and decided to take some Nyquil again before bed. Anyone who knows me well knows that I cannot stand Nyquil, and I must be really sick to take it. I shiver everytime I drink the stuff.
December 18th
I woke up this morning at 4:35am and could not get comfortable. My back was really hurting so I took some ibuprofen and went downstairs to watch the morning news. Glad I did--it was snowing and school was delayed two hours. I went upstairs and turned off Miranda's alarm.
While watching the news, my fever broke and I started feeling better. Still pretty tired though. I tried to go through the kids' school papers from Monday and the mail. My neighbor emailed me asking if her boys could come over for a few hours before the bus came. Her school district didn't have a delay. Once my kids were up and saw the snow, they were ready to go out and play. I made them hot cocoa for breakfast and they got suited up to go outside. Casey and Chase arrived. They all played outside for about an hour.
Miranda left for school at 9am. The other kids got ready for the bus at 10:20. We all piled into the car so I could take them down to the snow route stop. We noticed on of our neighbors at the regular stop so we picked her up to drive her down with us. But we missed the bus! So I had to drive all the kids down to the school. Thankfully the roads were clear. Merek and Chase came back home with me. Preschool didn't start until 12:45pm. They played and ate lunch. It was good for Merek to have a friend over. I tried to get the kitchen cleaned up.
My neighbor called and asked if I could go help in Bird's classroom at 1:10. They were making gingerbread houses in class and her son was sick so she couldn't go. So, since I was feeling better, I agreed to go. I dropped of Merek and Chase at school and headed over to the elementary school. It was a good thing I went because they needed all the help they could get! The kids had a hard time spreading the icing to stick the candies on. It was fun to help them and see their creations. Bird seemed really happy that I was there.
I came home after that and visited with Miranda a bit before heading back down to pick the kids up from school and Merek from preschool. Krish was very concerned because the weather forecast for tomorrow is looking snowy and his class is supposed to go on a field trip. He really does not want it to snow! I told him if it did we could rent the "Wizard of Oz" (the play his class is going to see) over the break and watch it. He still didn't want it to snow.
Calee came over for a piano lesson. Then I helped Krish with his book report project that is due when they go back to school after the holiday break. Peyton was supposed to come for a lesson at 5 but her mom forgot so I continued working with Krish on his project.
Miranda is pet-sitting for our friends who are out of town this week. They have some turtles and a bird. She is their go-to pet sitter. Usually she will take one sibling with her to go down and feed the pets. They really enjoy it.
Brad made chicken noodle soup for dinner. I finally have a bit of an appetite back. But after dinner I wasn't feeling very well again and needed to lie down. But I had told Brad I would order the Christmas cards today so I worked on that for way too long. I was very tired and very frustrated by the time they were ordered. He said he will pick them up tomorrow on his way home from work.
While watching the news, my fever broke and I started feeling better. Still pretty tired though. I tried to go through the kids' school papers from Monday and the mail. My neighbor emailed me asking if her boys could come over for a few hours before the bus came. Her school district didn't have a delay. Once my kids were up and saw the snow, they were ready to go out and play. I made them hot cocoa for breakfast and they got suited up to go outside. Casey and Chase arrived. They all played outside for about an hour.
Miranda left for school at 9am. The other kids got ready for the bus at 10:20. We all piled into the car so I could take them down to the snow route stop. We noticed on of our neighbors at the regular stop so we picked her up to drive her down with us. But we missed the bus! So I had to drive all the kids down to the school. Thankfully the roads were clear. Merek and Chase came back home with me. Preschool didn't start until 12:45pm. They played and ate lunch. It was good for Merek to have a friend over. I tried to get the kitchen cleaned up.
My neighbor called and asked if I could go help in Bird's classroom at 1:10. They were making gingerbread houses in class and her son was sick so she couldn't go. So, since I was feeling better, I agreed to go. I dropped of Merek and Chase at school and headed over to the elementary school. It was a good thing I went because they needed all the help they could get! The kids had a hard time spreading the icing to stick the candies on. It was fun to help them and see their creations. Bird seemed really happy that I was there.
I came home after that and visited with Miranda a bit before heading back down to pick the kids up from school and Merek from preschool. Krish was very concerned because the weather forecast for tomorrow is looking snowy and his class is supposed to go on a field trip. He really does not want it to snow! I told him if it did we could rent the "Wizard of Oz" (the play his class is going to see) over the break and watch it. He still didn't want it to snow.
Calee came over for a piano lesson. Then I helped Krish with his book report project that is due when they go back to school after the holiday break. Peyton was supposed to come for a lesson at 5 but her mom forgot so I continued working with Krish on his project.
Miranda is pet-sitting for our friends who are out of town this week. They have some turtles and a bird. She is their go-to pet sitter. Usually she will take one sibling with her to go down and feed the pets. They really enjoy it.
Brad made chicken noodle soup for dinner. I finally have a bit of an appetite back. But after dinner I wasn't feeling very well again and needed to lie down. But I had told Brad I would order the Christmas cards today so I worked on that for way too long. I was very tired and very frustrated by the time they were ordered. He said he will pick them up tomorrow on his way home from work.
December 17th
Today I spent almost the entire day in bed with a fever, aches, chills, and a pounding headache. My sweet kids got breakfast for themselves and made their own lunches. They came and said goodbye and went up to the bus stop.
My niece, Allie, was planning to come out today to help with Merek so I could get somethings done. Thankfully she was here because I slept until 2pm. She played with Merek and got him to preschool.
He would come in to see me before leaving for school and snuggle by me. He said, "Mom, you feel hot!"
I got up and tried to watch the Survivor finale, but I think I slept through half of it. I went to pick up the kids from school and Merek from preschool. Then I came back home and went back to bed.
Brad brought dinner home and took care of everything. I slept.
My niece, Allie, was planning to come out today to help with Merek so I could get somethings done. Thankfully she was here because I slept until 2pm. She played with Merek and got him to preschool.
He would come in to see me before leaving for school and snuggle by me. He said, "Mom, you feel hot!"
I got up and tried to watch the Survivor finale, but I think I slept through half of it. I went to pick up the kids from school and Merek from preschool. Then I came back home and went back to bed.
Brad brought dinner home and took care of everything. I slept.
December 16th
This morning I woke up feeling cold. I went downstairs and spent sometimes gathering items for my Sunday School lesson. We had some goodies to take to the Outreach Bake Sale at St. Michael's so I wrapped those up, labeled, and priced them. I also wrapped up a plate of two dozen cookies to leave for the Messiah Sing-a-long that afternoon.
We all got ready for church and headed off to St. Michael's. Miranda wanted to go to her Sunday School class with the ward so we took two cars. The kids had singing time for the first 20 minutes of Sunday School. Merek had to go to the restroom twice during that time. At least he doesn't hold it until the last minute! While we were in the bathroom, I felt a little light-headed and dizzy but just thought it was because I hadn't eaten breakfast.
I went back and taught my Sunday School class their lesson. We made lumiaries out of brown paper bags and talked about the light of Christ and sharing it with those around us, especially during this season of the year. Merek was fully of energy after Sunday School so I spent the rest of church with him in the foyer. After service, the bake sale commenced. We bought way too many treats. And Lina bought the plate of fudge we took! She is so silly.
Brad took the boys home and the girls went with me to the ward meetings. I stayed in the foyer visiting with Heather during Sunday School. Matthew was hanging out with her. He interacted with me quite a bit. We played hide-n-seek with his Angry Birds pig. It was quite the step forward for him to even talk to me. He usually will hide his face in his mom's shirt when I talk to him. I didn't have to play the piano in RS because someone else already said they would. I sat in the back by Kirsten and her cute baby, Townes. The lesson was on forgiveness by Sister Bean and President Johnson. I had a hard time focusing on the lesson because I was feeling really tired.
When we got home, I ate a turkey sandwich. Because I still felt cold, I was wearing my coat. I laid down on the couch and fell asleep for about two hours. The boys were watching the Seahawks game. When I woke up, I felt really tired and went to change into my pajamas. After dinner, I tried to get some things done but eventually went to bed at 9:20pm and slept until almost 8:30 Monday morning.
We all got ready for church and headed off to St. Michael's. Miranda wanted to go to her Sunday School class with the ward so we took two cars. The kids had singing time for the first 20 minutes of Sunday School. Merek had to go to the restroom twice during that time. At least he doesn't hold it until the last minute! While we were in the bathroom, I felt a little light-headed and dizzy but just thought it was because I hadn't eaten breakfast.
I went back and taught my Sunday School class their lesson. We made lumiaries out of brown paper bags and talked about the light of Christ and sharing it with those around us, especially during this season of the year. Merek was fully of energy after Sunday School so I spent the rest of church with him in the foyer. After service, the bake sale commenced. We bought way too many treats. And Lina bought the plate of fudge we took! She is so silly.
Brad took the boys home and the girls went with me to the ward meetings. I stayed in the foyer visiting with Heather during Sunday School. Matthew was hanging out with her. He interacted with me quite a bit. We played hide-n-seek with his Angry Birds pig. It was quite the step forward for him to even talk to me. He usually will hide his face in his mom's shirt when I talk to him. I didn't have to play the piano in RS because someone else already said they would. I sat in the back by Kirsten and her cute baby, Townes. The lesson was on forgiveness by Sister Bean and President Johnson. I had a hard time focusing on the lesson because I was feeling really tired.
When we got home, I ate a turkey sandwich. Because I still felt cold, I was wearing my coat. I laid down on the couch and fell asleep for about two hours. The boys were watching the Seahawks game. When I woke up, I felt really tired and went to change into my pajamas. After dinner, I tried to get some things done but eventually went to bed at 9:20pm and slept until almost 8:30 Monday morning.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
December 15th
Alarm went off at 6am. Mixed up wassail and put it on the stove to simmer. Mixed up the cake for Lina's birthday party and put it in the over to bake. Typed up program for recital. Cut up pumpkin bread and layered it on a serving platter. Sliced fudge and placed it on a snowflake dish. Cookies on a plate.
Kids up. Practicing songs. Printed programs. It's snowing! Packed up car and headed up to golf club for the recital.
Perfect setting. Beautiful view. It went well. So proud of my students and how hard they worked to prepare for the recital. "Their songs will be perfect because of the effort they put in to prepare them."
Thankful for the family and friends that attended, especially Kori, Bird and Krish's teachers, and Krish's first-grade teacher. So appreciative of their support.
Brad not feeling well when we got home. He rested and the kids vegged out on screen-time. Spent a little time with Krish, he was tired and bored. Got him calmed down by looking through a scrapbook. Put away recital stuff, cleaned up kitchen. Prepared for Lina's party.
2:00pm Lina's friends arrive. Drove down to Seattle Arcade. Still snowing at home, turned to rain in Seattle. Girls had a great time at the arcade. Wish we had a little longer time. Returned home to over an inch of snow on the ground. Girls decorated Lina's cake--sleepover cake. She opened gifts then they had cake. Played in the snow after friends left. Merek liked it, but did not like his pants getting wet when he fell down. Lina and Krish built a snowman.
Ordered Chinese for dinner. Brad and kids watched Christmas movie. Laundry, dishes, putting clothes away. Kids in bed by 8:30pm after late night last night. Watching Survivor before heading to bed.
Need to start on "after-recital" list: Christmas gifts, Christmas cards, preparing for MIL's arrival.
Kids up. Practicing songs. Printed programs. It's snowing! Packed up car and headed up to golf club for the recital.
Perfect setting. Beautiful view. It went well. So proud of my students and how hard they worked to prepare for the recital. "Their songs will be perfect because of the effort they put in to prepare them."
Thankful for the family and friends that attended, especially Kori, Bird and Krish's teachers, and Krish's first-grade teacher. So appreciative of their support.
Brad not feeling well when we got home. He rested and the kids vegged out on screen-time. Spent a little time with Krish, he was tired and bored. Got him calmed down by looking through a scrapbook. Put away recital stuff, cleaned up kitchen. Prepared for Lina's party.
2:00pm Lina's friends arrive. Drove down to Seattle Arcade. Still snowing at home, turned to rain in Seattle. Girls had a great time at the arcade. Wish we had a little longer time. Returned home to over an inch of snow on the ground. Girls decorated Lina's cake--sleepover cake. She opened gifts then they had cake. Played in the snow after friends left. Merek liked it, but did not like his pants getting wet when he fell down. Lina and Krish built a snowman.
Ordered Chinese for dinner. Brad and kids watched Christmas movie. Laundry, dishes, putting clothes away. Kids in bed by 8:30pm after late night last night. Watching Survivor before heading to bed.
Need to start on "after-recital" list: Christmas gifts, Christmas cards, preparing for MIL's arrival.
Friday, December 14, 2012
December 14th
As I sat down to write about my day, I saw the news about the massacre at the elementary school in Connecticut. My heart aches to know all those sweet, precious children were killed. My own kids are sitting here near me, as they watch the end of their movie night selection. How thankful I am to have them here with me! I cannot even imagine the horror, the sadness, and the emptiness of the families who have lost their loved ones this day in such a horrible tragedy.
I am thankful for the quiet peace that helped me get through this busy, stressful day. Allie was very helpful with the baking for tomorrow's recital and with the kids while I taught nine piano lessons this afternoon.
Brad and I went to a holiday party white elephant gift exchange tonight. Lina babysat the boys for us. Miranda had another babysitting job for some neighbors.
Before heading to bed I still need to make up the program for tomorrow. Going to go tuck my kids in to bed first and give them an extra long hug.
I am thankful for the quiet peace that helped me get through this busy, stressful day. Allie was very helpful with the baking for tomorrow's recital and with the kids while I taught nine piano lessons this afternoon.
Brad and I went to a holiday party white elephant gift exchange tonight. Lina babysat the boys for us. Miranda had another babysitting job for some neighbors.
Before heading to bed I still need to make up the program for tomorrow. Going to go tuck my kids in to bed first and give them an extra long hug.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
December 13th
Early morning--went to the Y at 5:45am to get my walking in. It was fabulous--the cardio room was almost empty. I watched the morning news which was actually pretty boring. I had taken some magazines to read but got on a treadmill with a TV and didn't feel right reading on it in case someone else wanted to use it. I'm loving this routine of walking everyday. It feels good. It would feel even better if I were eating better. Last week I did really well eating. This week not so much.
My turn to drive the middle school carpool this morning. The sky was dark and grey, but there was a band of light coming from the East over the mountains. It was really pretty. And on the drive to the school, I noticed there was still one star shining in the sky.
Brad was home until about 8:30am. He was feeling well enough to go into work. After the kids got on the bus, Merek and I prepared for the co-op preschool group. For "P" today we were painting, doing a floor puzzle, taking pictures for ornaments, and having popcorn for a snack.
We headed to the grocery store after eating lunch. Eggs, seltzer water, baking chips, cereal . . . nothing too exciting. I didn't feel like doing a big shopping trip so just got enough to get us through the next couple of days. Through the recital. I still need to get the ingredients to make the wassail for the recital and for Lina's cake for her party on Saturday.
We went to pick up the middle school kids when school was out. Then I worked on the circle journal that is due for mailing Saturday. It is part of a group from the Noel Mignon message board. I have always wanted to do a circle journal and a group was starting one up there, so I joined in. Our originals went out last month. So this month I'm creating on the one sent to me and will send it on to the next person. In May, I should get my original one back after it has circles to 5 other people.
Lina's friend came over after school to practice their song for the recital. The kids all went with me to take her back home. We drove around a bit to see the Christmas lights in the neighborhood. The kids are finishing up homework so they can watch Mickey Mouse Christmas tonight. Allie is staying with them while we go to Brad's work party in Seattle.
We have just enough leftovers from the week for the kids' dinner--taco soup, pasta, and pizza. A smorgasboard :)
Time to go get ready . . .
I put hot rollers in my hair like my stylist told me to. Then I went to pick up Allie from the bus stop. She was able to take the bus all the way to our neighborhood today since she was travelling at commuter time. It was nice. I finished getting ready. I gave Brad four options of blouses to choose from for me to wear--he picked the one I thought he would. Black silk with a ruffled front. I added my black and silver jewelry that I'd been saving for the holidays. We had Lina snap a pic of us before we headed out the door.
The party was at the Columbia Tower in Seattle. We were up on the top floor--76, I think. The view was amazing! It was a clear night so we could see the whole city and out to the water and islands. Even the ladies restroom had a gorgeous view of the city, and in the stalls, too! The theme for the party was James Bond/Casino Royale. Everyone was given chips to gamble with. We could exchange our cihps at the end of the night for raffle tickets.We didn't with the $500 but it was still a nice evening. There was dinner and dancing. I mainly just enjoyed visiting with Brad's co-workers and their spouses. I hear about the people he works with but only see them usually once, maybe twice, a year.
And my hair turned out just fine. I'm not so upset about it after all :)
My turn to drive the middle school carpool this morning. The sky was dark and grey, but there was a band of light coming from the East over the mountains. It was really pretty. And on the drive to the school, I noticed there was still one star shining in the sky.
Brad was home until about 8:30am. He was feeling well enough to go into work. After the kids got on the bus, Merek and I prepared for the co-op preschool group. For "P" today we were painting, doing a floor puzzle, taking pictures for ornaments, and having popcorn for a snack.
We headed to the grocery store after eating lunch. Eggs, seltzer water, baking chips, cereal . . . nothing too exciting. I didn't feel like doing a big shopping trip so just got enough to get us through the next couple of days. Through the recital. I still need to get the ingredients to make the wassail for the recital and for Lina's cake for her party on Saturday.
We went to pick up the middle school kids when school was out. Then I worked on the circle journal that is due for mailing Saturday. It is part of a group from the Noel Mignon message board. I have always wanted to do a circle journal and a group was starting one up there, so I joined in. Our originals went out last month. So this month I'm creating on the one sent to me and will send it on to the next person. In May, I should get my original one back after it has circles to 5 other people.
Lina's friend came over after school to practice their song for the recital. The kids all went with me to take her back home. We drove around a bit to see the Christmas lights in the neighborhood. The kids are finishing up homework so they can watch Mickey Mouse Christmas tonight. Allie is staying with them while we go to Brad's work party in Seattle.
We have just enough leftovers from the week for the kids' dinner--taco soup, pasta, and pizza. A smorgasboard :)
Time to go get ready . . .
I put hot rollers in my hair like my stylist told me to. Then I went to pick up Allie from the bus stop. She was able to take the bus all the way to our neighborhood today since she was travelling at commuter time. It was nice. I finished getting ready. I gave Brad four options of blouses to choose from for me to wear--he picked the one I thought he would. Black silk with a ruffled front. I added my black and silver jewelry that I'd been saving for the holidays. We had Lina snap a pic of us before we headed out the door.
The party was at the Columbia Tower in Seattle. We were up on the top floor--76, I think. The view was amazing! It was a clear night so we could see the whole city and out to the water and islands. Even the ladies restroom had a gorgeous view of the city, and in the stalls, too! The theme for the party was James Bond/Casino Royale. Everyone was given chips to gamble with. We could exchange our cihps at the end of the night for raffle tickets.We didn't with the $500 but it was still a nice evening. There was dinner and dancing. I mainly just enjoyed visiting with Brad's co-workers and their spouses. I hear about the people he works with but only see them usually once, maybe twice, a year.
And my hair turned out just fine. I'm not so upset about it after all :)
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
December 12th aka 12-12-12
Lotsa hoopla today over 12-12-12, and even 12:12 on 12-12-12.
Yes, I took a picture at 12:12. Merek and I on the couch. Nothing too exciting.
I did not want to get out of bed this morning. Even the thoughts of just lying in bed and letting the kids fend for themselves before school crossed my mind. They would totally do it, too. If they knew I wasn't feeling well, they would take care of things. Got to love that about my kids.
But after driving Miranda to Jazz Band at 6:15am, I decided to try to get some things done . . . and ended up looking through the ads from the Sunday paper (Miranda needed it for Social Studies the other day). Bird was up by 6:50 and the other two boys were not far behind. Bird told me this morning he wants to read the Bible. Great, let's do it, I said.
The kids had muffins for breakfast again. Except Merek wanted Cheerios. Fine. They practiced their recital songs and got ready for school. Lina said she wasn't feeling very well. Her forehead was a little warm but not feverish so I said she had to go to school. I made lunches. I really need to go to the grocery store. Thankfully, our produce box delivery was today. So we are stocked on fruits and veggies for a few days. But eggs--none. Snacks--other than popcorn and graham crackers, none. Tonight I made Taco Soup. I had most of the ingredients in the cupboard but had to stop by the store and run in quickly to grab some meat, taco seasoning, Fritos (YUM!), and chili to add to the soup already simmering on the stove while I went to pick up Krish from his Cub Scout den meeting. They learned to tie different kinds of knots. His den leader told me he rocked the knots. She said he got them all on his first try! He demonstrated them to me when we got home. He really did a good job and taught me a new knot or two!
This morning after the kids got on the bus I had a chiropractor appointment. Officially upgraded to once a week visits. My neck and back are responding well to treatments. Hooray! Then Merek and I went to the Y. As we walk down to the kids' place he loves to watch the exercise classes going on in the rooms. This morning there was a cardio strength class in the MP room and a Zumba class in the gym. I've noticed the Zumba classes are running low on attendance and wonder if that is because Heather is not teaching this month. She is a great teacher and goes about Mach-12 on energy level. I walked on the treadmill and read the rest of my BYU magazine. What a great mag! Two 65-minute sessions on the treadmill is what it took me to read cover to cover, and I was skimming some parts. Full of awesome content. One of the articles I read today was about using Social Media for good in our lives. Using it effectively and efficiently and not letting it consume us.
Merek wanted mac-n-cheese for lunch again today. Ugh, that was a mistake to buy at the store. I tried to get him to eat his leftover pizza from dinner last night, but NO. He had a banana, too. Then he was off to preschool, and I went to the ACE hardware store to try to find a hot-drink dispenser for my recital. They had a 30-cup coffee brewing container, and we thought it might work. But at the cash register the cashier had doubts. So we read the instructional guide and it said not to add in liquids other than hot water. So I didn't buy it. But I did get replacements for the broken lightswitch and toilet-handle that have been needing to get replaced for, like, ever.
When I got back home I looked up dispenser on the internet but they were all about the same thing as at the ACE store. I read the reviews and most said it worked well with hot water but hot cocoa left a sediment at the bottom. And so I decided not to order one since I'll be putting wassail in it. I think I'll just have my crockpot there with a ladel. Not pretty or professional, but whatever.
I had four piano lessons to teach today. They made me even more excited for the recital. The songs sound great! It will be so much fun on Saturday.
Bird had a violin lesson tonight. It was his last one until January. His teacher goes home to South Dakota for the holiday break. He did really well on the songs he had been practicing this week. I told his teacher how much he enjoyed the Christmas songs.
Brad came home a little earlier than usual from work, not feeling well. He seems to have a fever and may stay home from work tomorrow if he still isn't feeling well.
I washed four loads of laundry today. A few years ago, I cleaned out my closet and the kids' closets. Each person got to keep 10 days worth of clothing. Everything else was donated. It was fabulous. We need to do that again. Sometimes I feel like the laundry baskets are overflowing at the same time the drawers and closets are overflowing. I'm so thankful for all that we have--we just need to figure out what we really need and wear versus what gets passed over time and again.
Miranda baked cookies this afternoon. Apparently, she has to take them into her Health class (??) next week and talk about their nutritional value. She doubled the batch so we could have some for the recital on Saturday (that is what used up all my eggs). We put them in the freezer so they will still be fresh next week. She is a good baker. Skills she learned from her mother, who learned them from her mother :)
The kids got to watch Prep and Landing (again!) tonight. They are looking forward to see if the Elf brings another note from Santa tomorrow. This morning Santa had sent a sign (one of those box signs) that reads "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas". He said it was mainly for me. What a nice Santa!
Bird brought home a glass ornament today that he made at school. It is a Christmas gift for Brad and me. Inside of the ornament are some wishes that Bird wrote down. Here they are:
1. I wish we had a million dollars.
2. I wish my little brother would get better.
3. I wish we would live forever.
4. I wish that we would be safe.
5. I wish that we would have happiness always.
--At this point, I was thinking "my goodness, what a sweet list of wishes!" and then . . .
6. I wish that we wouldn't run out of ketchup.
I laughed out loud. Love that!
Yes, I took a picture at 12:12. Merek and I on the couch. Nothing too exciting.
I did not want to get out of bed this morning. Even the thoughts of just lying in bed and letting the kids fend for themselves before school crossed my mind. They would totally do it, too. If they knew I wasn't feeling well, they would take care of things. Got to love that about my kids.
But after driving Miranda to Jazz Band at 6:15am, I decided to try to get some things done . . . and ended up looking through the ads from the Sunday paper (Miranda needed it for Social Studies the other day). Bird was up by 6:50 and the other two boys were not far behind. Bird told me this morning he wants to read the Bible. Great, let's do it, I said.
The kids had muffins for breakfast again. Except Merek wanted Cheerios. Fine. They practiced their recital songs and got ready for school. Lina said she wasn't feeling very well. Her forehead was a little warm but not feverish so I said she had to go to school. I made lunches. I really need to go to the grocery store. Thankfully, our produce box delivery was today. So we are stocked on fruits and veggies for a few days. But eggs--none. Snacks--other than popcorn and graham crackers, none. Tonight I made Taco Soup. I had most of the ingredients in the cupboard but had to stop by the store and run in quickly to grab some meat, taco seasoning, Fritos (YUM!), and chili to add to the soup already simmering on the stove while I went to pick up Krish from his Cub Scout den meeting. They learned to tie different kinds of knots. His den leader told me he rocked the knots. She said he got them all on his first try! He demonstrated them to me when we got home. He really did a good job and taught me a new knot or two!
This morning after the kids got on the bus I had a chiropractor appointment. Officially upgraded to once a week visits. My neck and back are responding well to treatments. Hooray! Then Merek and I went to the Y. As we walk down to the kids' place he loves to watch the exercise classes going on in the rooms. This morning there was a cardio strength class in the MP room and a Zumba class in the gym. I've noticed the Zumba classes are running low on attendance and wonder if that is because Heather is not teaching this month. She is a great teacher and goes about Mach-12 on energy level. I walked on the treadmill and read the rest of my BYU magazine. What a great mag! Two 65-minute sessions on the treadmill is what it took me to read cover to cover, and I was skimming some parts. Full of awesome content. One of the articles I read today was about using Social Media for good in our lives. Using it effectively and efficiently and not letting it consume us.
Merek wanted mac-n-cheese for lunch again today. Ugh, that was a mistake to buy at the store. I tried to get him to eat his leftover pizza from dinner last night, but NO. He had a banana, too. Then he was off to preschool, and I went to the ACE hardware store to try to find a hot-drink dispenser for my recital. They had a 30-cup coffee brewing container, and we thought it might work. But at the cash register the cashier had doubts. So we read the instructional guide and it said not to add in liquids other than hot water. So I didn't buy it. But I did get replacements for the broken lightswitch and toilet-handle that have been needing to get replaced for, like, ever.
When I got back home I looked up dispenser on the internet but they were all about the same thing as at the ACE store. I read the reviews and most said it worked well with hot water but hot cocoa left a sediment at the bottom. And so I decided not to order one since I'll be putting wassail in it. I think I'll just have my crockpot there with a ladel. Not pretty or professional, but whatever.
I had four piano lessons to teach today. They made me even more excited for the recital. The songs sound great! It will be so much fun on Saturday.
Bird had a violin lesson tonight. It was his last one until January. His teacher goes home to South Dakota for the holiday break. He did really well on the songs he had been practicing this week. I told his teacher how much he enjoyed the Christmas songs.
Brad came home a little earlier than usual from work, not feeling well. He seems to have a fever and may stay home from work tomorrow if he still isn't feeling well.
I washed four loads of laundry today. A few years ago, I cleaned out my closet and the kids' closets. Each person got to keep 10 days worth of clothing. Everything else was donated. It was fabulous. We need to do that again. Sometimes I feel like the laundry baskets are overflowing at the same time the drawers and closets are overflowing. I'm so thankful for all that we have--we just need to figure out what we really need and wear versus what gets passed over time and again.
Miranda baked cookies this afternoon. Apparently, she has to take them into her Health class (??) next week and talk about their nutritional value. She doubled the batch so we could have some for the recital on Saturday (that is what used up all my eggs). We put them in the freezer so they will still be fresh next week. She is a good baker. Skills she learned from her mother, who learned them from her mother :)
The kids got to watch Prep and Landing (again!) tonight. They are looking forward to see if the Elf brings another note from Santa tomorrow. This morning Santa had sent a sign (one of those box signs) that reads "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas". He said it was mainly for me. What a nice Santa!
Bird brought home a glass ornament today that he made at school. It is a Christmas gift for Brad and me. Inside of the ornament are some wishes that Bird wrote down. Here they are:
1. I wish we had a million dollars.
2. I wish my little brother would get better.
3. I wish we would live forever.
4. I wish that we would be safe.
5. I wish that we would have happiness always.
--At this point, I was thinking "my goodness, what a sweet list of wishes!" and then . . .
6. I wish that we wouldn't run out of ketchup.
I laughed out loud. Love that!
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
December 11th
Oh, I'm giddy thinking that tomorrow is 12-12-12! I must remember to document what I'm doing at 12:12 on 12-12-12. :)
It has been a long day. I'm tired. Maybe that is why I'm tiredly giddy.
Ok, the day started off at 4:03am when I got some text messages from Amy in Kentucky. I completely don't mind because usually I either a) don't have my phone on, or b) the volume is down. But I had the volume up so it the alarm would wake me up at 4:45am so I could make it to the Y by 5am. And c) I always love hearing from Amy.
Yes, I went to the Y at 5. Had to get my walking in today and that was the only time I could go. There was a guy there waiting to get in at 5, too. He had on an Illinois sweatshirt. In my groggy state, I said, "Go, Illini". He asked if I was an Illinois fan. I said that we had gone to graduate school there. He asked, "Chicago or Champaign?" Champaign, of course. I think it surprised him to find an U of I grad in our little town.
I walked and watched ESPN Sports Center for the first 30 minutes. Krish is really into football right now and I figure it would be good for me to catch up on all the teams and current players so I can understand who and what he is talking about all the time. Seriously, he talks about it all the time. Then I switched over to King 5 for the morning news. I think in the next 30 minutes they repeated the same information at least 4 times. If I go that early again, I've got to find something else to watch. I don't think I could read that early. Maybe I'll try though. There is definitely a group of people that are always there that early and they have their routines. I think I was on one of "their" treadmills. Ha! Sorry, buddy. But there are 3 empty ones on the other end of the row. By 6:00 the cardio room had almost emptied out. Everyone off to work, and I was off to get home by the time Miranda left for Jazz Band.
When she left, I decided to make pumpkin chocolate chip muffins for Merek. I had some coconut oil in the cupboard. It was a whim purchase a month or two ago and hadn't been opened yet. So I looked up how to use it in place of vegetable oil. Easy-peasy exchange. I just had to melt it in a saucepan first. The only difference in taste in the muffins was a slight hint of honey (which there was none of in the recipe). The kids liked them and now I only have 1/2 c. of coconut oil left.
The boys were all up by 7am. I told them they had to take showers, do their chores, and practice their recital pieces before they could eat. Aren't I a mean mother? We usually eat breakfast around 7:30 so doing those things would keep us about on schedule. Plus, it woke Lina up by 7:20 so she wasn't rolling out of bed too late like usual. How we are going to deal with the middle school schedule with her next year is beyond me. That child cannot get to sleep at night and would sleep until 9am everyday if I let her. She really has never been a good sleeper, even as a baby. I think she doesn't sleep very soundly at night so by morning she is exhausted. We are going to have to figure something out for next year because 6am is going to be awfully early for her.
Sometimes I marvel at the process of thought. When I got in the shower this morning, the hot water felt so good and I wanted just to stand there in the heat. But I realized I needed to hurry and get ready to finish up the kids lunches before they left for school. And I thought about people in the 1800's who didn't have hot showers very often, if at all. And how they didn't have an hour to exercise each day but they didn't really need to because they had to work so hard just to live life daily and do all of their chores that they stayed physically fit. And I thought about all of our conveniences of today and how we are so busy yet we have so much less to do physically than they did. And that maybe with all of our conveniences we should spend more time doing things for others. And not always so worried about ourselves and how busy we are that we can't get things done like clean the house, and do the laundry, and plan and cook meals, and play with our kids. That led me to thinking about my New Year's resolutions and that I really want to start thinking about them now and planning. For the past year I've had several instances of inspiration that have told me the same thing over and over. Sometimes I've listened and changed things. Other times I haven't--and they were changed for me in a way that led me to the place I was supposed to be. It's so fascinating to me. And how thankful I am for Divine intervention.
Long tangent there . . . ok so kids off to school, Merek and I prepped for the mommy co-op preschool at our house today. Only the two other boys came over for preschool today. The two girls were not here. Our letter this week is "P". We read some Christmas stories, colored some pictures, did a maze, ate mini-pumpkin muffins, created with Play-doh, played a planet game, and read a story with puzzles.
Merek went to his other preschool after that and I went to get my hair cut. Brad's work holiday party is this week and I wanted my hair to look good. I hate the cut. Too short and too many layers. I will never be able to get it to look right for the party. And then to top it off, it was pouring rain when I left so the cute way she styled it wasn't so cute once I got home. I may have to wear it up for the party. We'll see. This has happened often enough that I should know by now layers do NOT work for me. Long hair with a blunt cut is the best hairstyle for my lifestyle. Or maybe I can just shave it all off.
I stopped by the library afterwards to pick up some books that Lina had put on hold. One of them was Roald Dahl recipes from his books. She was very excited to see them when I picked her up from school. The other two books are for the "Battle of the Books" they have between the district's elementary schools in the spring. I'm so happy that she is reading them and is planning to be on a team. This is the girl who has been below grade-level reading since first grade. She has begun to devour books and I'm thrilled to see that.
After getting the books, I went home and sulked on the couch and watched last week's Survivor episode (what was that I was saying about being too busy and having too much to do?). Miranda arrived home, told me about her day, and started on her homework. She had a temple trip this afternoon with her youth group from church so she wanted to get as much done as possible beforehand.
(Merek just woke up coughing and screaming. I went up there to check on him. Motherly instinct said to take him to the potty. I did. He peed, a gallon. Now he is tucked back in bed. Hopefully that will be it for the night).
I was elementary school carpool pick up today. Got the kids, and the neighbor boys, and Lina's friend. They are going to be singing a duet at the recital on Saturday so she came over after school to practice. Miranda popped popcorn for them to have for a snack. We practiced the song. They sound sweet. Then I worked with Bird on his violin piece for the recital. Meanwhile, I put Krish to work emptying the dishwasher and doing his homework. Merek entertained himself by using at least 1/2 of a post-it notepad to decorate the entryway. The post-its were neon green and he used a red pen to scribble a little bit on each one. He lined up a row of post-its on the lid of the piano as I was practicing with the other kids. And then he decorated the door to the garage where all the Christmas cards are hanging. He felt like he was really contributing with his artwork. It was lovely.
Peyton arrived for her piano lesson. Her recital songs sound terrific. I'm so proud of her. She is very busy and doesn't have a lot of time to practice but she has got the songs down. I'm so happy she decided to give piano another try after a two-year hiatus.
I drove Peyton and Audrey home and then picked up pizza for dinner. It's all about convenience. Ooops, there it is again! I ate a piece of pizza. And two parmesan balls. And a slice of stuffed cheesy bread. Ugh. Walking, walking, walking tomorrow. While I was gone, I asked the boys to collect the garbages for me and take out the trash bins for tomorrow. They are so good at that job.
Bird told us that in their HOLIDAY acrostic poem, Henry had shared "Dinner with the Jarocki's" for their Christmas celebration. Bird said his teach was happily surprised that we had dinner with them. It's a tradition. We've had dinner with the Smith's every Christmas for, hmmm, since we've lived here maybe? I can't remember but I think it is almost every one.
After dinner, while Lina showered and the boys did homework, I read Merek his library books. Froggy's New Babysitter is not my favorite. Mouse Mess is fun. We also read Horses! Then Brad gave him a bath while I read with Bird and Lina fixed my hair up "all fancy". Krish worked on his IXL. We got them all to bed around 8:30pm, about when Miranda arrived back home. She had a little bit of Science to finish up and then went to bed, too.
Brad asked if I got my hair cut. I pouted and cried a bit. I just wanted it to look good for his party. He was so nice and said he likes it. (What else is he going to say?). He is a good man. He gives good hugs.
He got the Santa letter all printed out for tomorrow and hid the present. The Elf on the Shelf is resituated as well. The kids left their wishlists in the mailbox on the tree tonight. We'll see what wishes come true!
It has been a long day. I'm tired. Maybe that is why I'm tiredly giddy.
Ok, the day started off at 4:03am when I got some text messages from Amy in Kentucky. I completely don't mind because usually I either a) don't have my phone on, or b) the volume is down. But I had the volume up so it the alarm would wake me up at 4:45am so I could make it to the Y by 5am. And c) I always love hearing from Amy.
Yes, I went to the Y at 5. Had to get my walking in today and that was the only time I could go. There was a guy there waiting to get in at 5, too. He had on an Illinois sweatshirt. In my groggy state, I said, "Go, Illini". He asked if I was an Illinois fan. I said that we had gone to graduate school there. He asked, "Chicago or Champaign?" Champaign, of course. I think it surprised him to find an U of I grad in our little town.
I walked and watched ESPN Sports Center for the first 30 minutes. Krish is really into football right now and I figure it would be good for me to catch up on all the teams and current players so I can understand who and what he is talking about all the time. Seriously, he talks about it all the time. Then I switched over to King 5 for the morning news. I think in the next 30 minutes they repeated the same information at least 4 times. If I go that early again, I've got to find something else to watch. I don't think I could read that early. Maybe I'll try though. There is definitely a group of people that are always there that early and they have their routines. I think I was on one of "their" treadmills. Ha! Sorry, buddy. But there are 3 empty ones on the other end of the row. By 6:00 the cardio room had almost emptied out. Everyone off to work, and I was off to get home by the time Miranda left for Jazz Band.
When she left, I decided to make pumpkin chocolate chip muffins for Merek. I had some coconut oil in the cupboard. It was a whim purchase a month or two ago and hadn't been opened yet. So I looked up how to use it in place of vegetable oil. Easy-peasy exchange. I just had to melt it in a saucepan first. The only difference in taste in the muffins was a slight hint of honey (which there was none of in the recipe). The kids liked them and now I only have 1/2 c. of coconut oil left.
The boys were all up by 7am. I told them they had to take showers, do their chores, and practice their recital pieces before they could eat. Aren't I a mean mother? We usually eat breakfast around 7:30 so doing those things would keep us about on schedule. Plus, it woke Lina up by 7:20 so she wasn't rolling out of bed too late like usual. How we are going to deal with the middle school schedule with her next year is beyond me. That child cannot get to sleep at night and would sleep until 9am everyday if I let her. She really has never been a good sleeper, even as a baby. I think she doesn't sleep very soundly at night so by morning she is exhausted. We are going to have to figure something out for next year because 6am is going to be awfully early for her.
Sometimes I marvel at the process of thought. When I got in the shower this morning, the hot water felt so good and I wanted just to stand there in the heat. But I realized I needed to hurry and get ready to finish up the kids lunches before they left for school. And I thought about people in the 1800's who didn't have hot showers very often, if at all. And how they didn't have an hour to exercise each day but they didn't really need to because they had to work so hard just to live life daily and do all of their chores that they stayed physically fit. And I thought about all of our conveniences of today and how we are so busy yet we have so much less to do physically than they did. And that maybe with all of our conveniences we should spend more time doing things for others. And not always so worried about ourselves and how busy we are that we can't get things done like clean the house, and do the laundry, and plan and cook meals, and play with our kids. That led me to thinking about my New Year's resolutions and that I really want to start thinking about them now and planning. For the past year I've had several instances of inspiration that have told me the same thing over and over. Sometimes I've listened and changed things. Other times I haven't--and they were changed for me in a way that led me to the place I was supposed to be. It's so fascinating to me. And how thankful I am for Divine intervention.
Long tangent there . . . ok so kids off to school, Merek and I prepped for the mommy co-op preschool at our house today. Only the two other boys came over for preschool today. The two girls were not here. Our letter this week is "P". We read some Christmas stories, colored some pictures, did a maze, ate mini-pumpkin muffins, created with Play-doh, played a planet game, and read a story with puzzles.
Merek went to his other preschool after that and I went to get my hair cut. Brad's work holiday party is this week and I wanted my hair to look good. I hate the cut. Too short and too many layers. I will never be able to get it to look right for the party. And then to top it off, it was pouring rain when I left so the cute way she styled it wasn't so cute once I got home. I may have to wear it up for the party. We'll see. This has happened often enough that I should know by now layers do NOT work for me. Long hair with a blunt cut is the best hairstyle for my lifestyle. Or maybe I can just shave it all off.
I stopped by the library afterwards to pick up some books that Lina had put on hold. One of them was Roald Dahl recipes from his books. She was very excited to see them when I picked her up from school. The other two books are for the "Battle of the Books" they have between the district's elementary schools in the spring. I'm so happy that she is reading them and is planning to be on a team. This is the girl who has been below grade-level reading since first grade. She has begun to devour books and I'm thrilled to see that.
After getting the books, I went home and sulked on the couch and watched last week's Survivor episode (what was that I was saying about being too busy and having too much to do?). Miranda arrived home, told me about her day, and started on her homework. She had a temple trip this afternoon with her youth group from church so she wanted to get as much done as possible beforehand.
(Merek just woke up coughing and screaming. I went up there to check on him. Motherly instinct said to take him to the potty. I did. He peed, a gallon. Now he is tucked back in bed. Hopefully that will be it for the night).
I was elementary school carpool pick up today. Got the kids, and the neighbor boys, and Lina's friend. They are going to be singing a duet at the recital on Saturday so she came over after school to practice. Miranda popped popcorn for them to have for a snack. We practiced the song. They sound sweet. Then I worked with Bird on his violin piece for the recital. Meanwhile, I put Krish to work emptying the dishwasher and doing his homework. Merek entertained himself by using at least 1/2 of a post-it notepad to decorate the entryway. The post-its were neon green and he used a red pen to scribble a little bit on each one. He lined up a row of post-its on the lid of the piano as I was practicing with the other kids. And then he decorated the door to the garage where all the Christmas cards are hanging. He felt like he was really contributing with his artwork. It was lovely.
Peyton arrived for her piano lesson. Her recital songs sound terrific. I'm so proud of her. She is very busy and doesn't have a lot of time to practice but she has got the songs down. I'm so happy she decided to give piano another try after a two-year hiatus.
I drove Peyton and Audrey home and then picked up pizza for dinner. It's all about convenience. Ooops, there it is again! I ate a piece of pizza. And two parmesan balls. And a slice of stuffed cheesy bread. Ugh. Walking, walking, walking tomorrow. While I was gone, I asked the boys to collect the garbages for me and take out the trash bins for tomorrow. They are so good at that job.
Bird told us that in their HOLIDAY acrostic poem, Henry had shared "Dinner with the Jarocki's" for their Christmas celebration. Bird said his teach was happily surprised that we had dinner with them. It's a tradition. We've had dinner with the Smith's every Christmas for, hmmm, since we've lived here maybe? I can't remember but I think it is almost every one.
After dinner, while Lina showered and the boys did homework, I read Merek his library books. Froggy's New Babysitter is not my favorite. Mouse Mess is fun. We also read Horses! Then Brad gave him a bath while I read with Bird and Lina fixed my hair up "all fancy". Krish worked on his IXL. We got them all to bed around 8:30pm, about when Miranda arrived back home. She had a little bit of Science to finish up and then went to bed, too.
Brad asked if I got my hair cut. I pouted and cried a bit. I just wanted it to look good for his party. He was so nice and said he likes it. (What else is he going to say?). He is a good man. He gives good hugs.
He got the Santa letter all printed out for tomorrow and hid the present. The Elf on the Shelf is resituated as well. The kids left their wishlists in the mailbox on the tree tonight. We'll see what wishes come true!
Monday, December 10, 2012
December 10th
This morning I put the rest of my ornaments on the tree. There was just enough room on the top branches to finish off the tree with the White House ornaments. Brad's brother used to send them to us every year when they lived in Virginia. They are really unique and fun to have. Every year I envision reading through the story of each one with the kids, but I don't.
After the kids were off to school, Merek and I headed up to the Y. I read the most recent BYU Magazine while walking today. Only made it about 2/3 of the way through before the 65 minutes were up. Read some wonderful articles--my favorites were speech excerpts from politicians calling for more civility among Americans.
Merek's friend, Andrew, came over to play when we got home. They built their standard bird's nest out of the couch cushions, built legos, played spy, and rode the rocking horses together. We do weekly playdates with Andrew. He and Merek get along really well. Then it was time for Merek to go to preschool.
I had a camp meeting at 1pm. This is my last year as one of the camp directors. The years have gone by quickly. We have quite a bit to do before our first January meeting with the staff. But it's hard to think about or focus on during the holidays. I need to just set aside a particular time to be "camp time".Miranda arrived home during our meeting. She was excited to tell me she got 26 out of 21 on her Science quiz. That has been the hardest class for her this year. (There was extra credit on the quiz).
The kids worked on homework and reading when they got home. I had two piano lessons to teach. The girls took a birthday invitation down to Hope. We made pasta for dinner. Lina had musical theater. She got the part of Mrs. Bucket in their Willy Wonka production scheduled for March. I think she was a bit disappointed at first to not have a bigger part. But she told me tonight that she has a solo in the play. The instructor said they changed it from a trio to just a solo for Lina because she has such a beautiful voice. I hope Lina enjoys the class and the preparations for the performance.
Lina was excited today to get a Christmas card from her 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Beattie. There was even a handwritten letter to Lina on the back of the card. It really brightened Lina's mood when she read it. She immediately wrote back to Mrs. B. I hope this is something they can continue to do. It makes Lina feel special and important that her teacher still cares about her.
My piano recital is THIS Saturday. Things are finally finalized for the location. I have a TON to do to get ready. But it is all good and I'm thrilled that there will be almost 70 people there. Usually we have it at our home because there have only been 4-5 families in the past. But this year with 21 students, a few more families are involved. Since I changed venues and have more space, I invited the kids' school teachers along with some friends. It will be great. Hopefully, the students are practicing hard so they can perform to the best of their ability.
Today was the submission deadline for a publication that I felt I really had a good shot at getting some projects published. But I finally just decided it wasn't going to fit in the schedule, without me sacrificing some time with the kids, to get the submissions in. It always surprises me how long it takes to submit something. And then there is no guarantee that what I submit will even be published. So I decided to just let it go and not wait until the last minute next time :)
Brad and the kids watched "Prep and Landing" tonight. It seems to be the season for holiday movies (and the season for a lax in the "no TV on school nights" rule). Our Elf on the Shelf arrived this morning. In the mailbox on the tree was a note from Santa. He left Wish Lists for the kids to fill out and Hershey Kisses hidden in one of the kitchen drawers. Krish helped Merek fill out his list. As Merek thought about things, Krish suggested "clothes". How many 9-year-old BOYS think of clothes for their Christmas wish lists?? I guess Krish does have "pants" on his list. He wears holes in the knees of his pants faster than lightning. He plays so rough at recess and at home. Always falling to the ground, sliding on his knees. I need to find some sort of pants with triple-reinforced knees.
When I tucked Bird in, he said he seems to be waking up really early in the mornings and not getting enough sleep. I suggested that he go to bed earlier so he can wake up at his normal time and get more sleep that way. But he said he would only wake up earlier. I mentioned that maybe if he woke up early and tried to go back to sleep without watching the clock every few minutes to see if it was 7am then maybe he would actually be able to go to sleep.
Krish and Brad read aloud from the 3rd Harry Potter tonight. They have been reading it for awhile now. It looks like they are a little over 1/2 way through. Krish is looking forward to watching the movie when they finish. It's one of our rules that they cannot watch the movie before reading the books.
Going to head to bed a little earlier tonight. When I put Merek to bed he asked what we were having for breakfast. This is a ritual that happens every night. And if we do not have what I told him the night before, watch out! So I told him maybe eggs or cereal, but I wasn't really sure because I might make muffins. He asked what kind. Blueberry, banana, and pumpkin were suggestions I gave. He said, "how about ones with chocolate chips?" :)
After the kids were off to school, Merek and I headed up to the Y. I read the most recent BYU Magazine while walking today. Only made it about 2/3 of the way through before the 65 minutes were up. Read some wonderful articles--my favorites were speech excerpts from politicians calling for more civility among Americans.
Merek's friend, Andrew, came over to play when we got home. They built their standard bird's nest out of the couch cushions, built legos, played spy, and rode the rocking horses together. We do weekly playdates with Andrew. He and Merek get along really well. Then it was time for Merek to go to preschool.
I had a camp meeting at 1pm. This is my last year as one of the camp directors. The years have gone by quickly. We have quite a bit to do before our first January meeting with the staff. But it's hard to think about or focus on during the holidays. I need to just set aside a particular time to be "camp time".Miranda arrived home during our meeting. She was excited to tell me she got 26 out of 21 on her Science quiz. That has been the hardest class for her this year. (There was extra credit on the quiz).
The kids worked on homework and reading when they got home. I had two piano lessons to teach. The girls took a birthday invitation down to Hope. We made pasta for dinner. Lina had musical theater. She got the part of Mrs. Bucket in their Willy Wonka production scheduled for March. I think she was a bit disappointed at first to not have a bigger part. But she told me tonight that she has a solo in the play. The instructor said they changed it from a trio to just a solo for Lina because she has such a beautiful voice. I hope Lina enjoys the class and the preparations for the performance.
Lina was excited today to get a Christmas card from her 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Beattie. There was even a handwritten letter to Lina on the back of the card. It really brightened Lina's mood when she read it. She immediately wrote back to Mrs. B. I hope this is something they can continue to do. It makes Lina feel special and important that her teacher still cares about her.
My piano recital is THIS Saturday. Things are finally finalized for the location. I have a TON to do to get ready. But it is all good and I'm thrilled that there will be almost 70 people there. Usually we have it at our home because there have only been 4-5 families in the past. But this year with 21 students, a few more families are involved. Since I changed venues and have more space, I invited the kids' school teachers along with some friends. It will be great. Hopefully, the students are practicing hard so they can perform to the best of their ability.
Today was the submission deadline for a publication that I felt I really had a good shot at getting some projects published. But I finally just decided it wasn't going to fit in the schedule, without me sacrificing some time with the kids, to get the submissions in. It always surprises me how long it takes to submit something. And then there is no guarantee that what I submit will even be published. So I decided to just let it go and not wait until the last minute next time :)
Brad and the kids watched "Prep and Landing" tonight. It seems to be the season for holiday movies (and the season for a lax in the "no TV on school nights" rule). Our Elf on the Shelf arrived this morning. In the mailbox on the tree was a note from Santa. He left Wish Lists for the kids to fill out and Hershey Kisses hidden in one of the kitchen drawers. Krish helped Merek fill out his list. As Merek thought about things, Krish suggested "clothes". How many 9-year-old BOYS think of clothes for their Christmas wish lists?? I guess Krish does have "pants" on his list. He wears holes in the knees of his pants faster than lightning. He plays so rough at recess and at home. Always falling to the ground, sliding on his knees. I need to find some sort of pants with triple-reinforced knees.
When I tucked Bird in, he said he seems to be waking up really early in the mornings and not getting enough sleep. I suggested that he go to bed earlier so he can wake up at his normal time and get more sleep that way. But he said he would only wake up earlier. I mentioned that maybe if he woke up early and tried to go back to sleep without watching the clock every few minutes to see if it was 7am then maybe he would actually be able to go to sleep.
Krish and Brad read aloud from the 3rd Harry Potter tonight. They have been reading it for awhile now. It looks like they are a little over 1/2 way through. Krish is looking forward to watching the movie when they finish. It's one of our rules that they cannot watch the movie before reading the books.
Going to head to bed a little earlier tonight. When I put Merek to bed he asked what we were having for breakfast. This is a ritual that happens every night. And if we do not have what I told him the night before, watch out! So I told him maybe eggs or cereal, but I wasn't really sure because I might make muffins. He asked what kind. Blueberry, banana, and pumpkin were suggestions I gave. He said, "how about ones with chocolate chips?" :)
Sunday, December 9, 2012
December 9th
Merek woke up about 6:30am this morning and came into our bedroom. He climbed into bed and snuggle up beside me, but didn't fall back to sleep. I'm not sure what time he and Brad got up and went downstairs. When I woke up it was 8:30am! From a good night's sleep to a not-so-good night's sleep. One of these years I'll get into a good sleeping pattern.
Everyone ate breakfast and then we got ready for church. Miranda and I practiced our prelude music one last time. We headed out to church, dropping off some jeans for the collection at St. Michael's on the way. The prelude music went well. The kids were a bit restless during church. At one point, Lina complained, "I don't have anything to do." I replied, "You sit and listen and learn." :) I know it is difficult for kids to sit during church but I think they also need to realize the importance of listening, learning, reverence, and respect.
After we came home, we had lunch. Brad and the boys watched the Seahawks football game. I retreated upstairs, a creative pull leading the way, continuing to make more cards and tags.
The girls came out at 4:30pm from Miranda's room and said it was time to go to tithing settlement. Glad they were watching the clock! Merek tagged along with us and brought his blow-up penguin from Chase's party. We met with Bishop Smith and then came back home.
Brad had put the lights on the tree earlier today. So while he made dinner, the kids and I put ornaments on the tree. Correction, I got the ornaments out of their boxes and the kids hung them on the tree while I tried to remain as calm as possible. Decorating the tree ranks right up near the top of my least-favorite things to do during the holidays. I don't know why but it does. My pile of ornaments is still sitting on the floor by the fireplace. Maybe I'll get them up tonight, maybe not.
Dinner was delicious--baked chicken, sauteed chard, steamed broccolini, carrots and green bell peppers, salad, and avocados. A very green dinner :) Have I mentioned before how thankful I am that he is such a good cook?
Lina and Bird finished up his house project. Miranda contributed by coloring the title letters. So glad that is done and we can send it back to school tomorrow.
The kids got on their pajamas and practice their recital songs one time each. Then we all share the Oreo bark from the Wilcocks for a treat. We put the kids to bed much closer to their bedtime tonight. Last night was way too late. Brad and I each read a story to Merek (he had us read the same story The Little Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly). Krish and Lina read in our room until we put them to bed. Miranda watched some more of Pirates of the Caribbean with Brad. They had started it last night but only got about an hour into it before she was ready to go to bed. I think they only watched another 30 minutes tonight. She was tired and she has to get up at 5:20am in the morning for Jazz Band. After the kids were in bed, I cleaned the kitchen and washed dishes. My sweet friend, Susannah, called. We visited for an hour. I so enjoy talking to her.
We played 259's Christmas album while decorating the tree. It is one of my favorite Christmas albums. I love the accapella sound and the variety of songs they sing. It doesn't really feel like Christmas is only two weeks away. Guess I'd better get some more music playing and shopping done. This week is going to be busy though. We have something every night and then my piano recital and Lina's birthday party on Saturday. The shopping will have to wait until next week. But I can still play the music :)
Everyone ate breakfast and then we got ready for church. Miranda and I practiced our prelude music one last time. We headed out to church, dropping off some jeans for the collection at St. Michael's on the way. The prelude music went well. The kids were a bit restless during church. At one point, Lina complained, "I don't have anything to do." I replied, "You sit and listen and learn." :) I know it is difficult for kids to sit during church but I think they also need to realize the importance of listening, learning, reverence, and respect.
After we came home, we had lunch. Brad and the boys watched the Seahawks football game. I retreated upstairs, a creative pull leading the way, continuing to make more cards and tags.
The girls came out at 4:30pm from Miranda's room and said it was time to go to tithing settlement. Glad they were watching the clock! Merek tagged along with us and brought his blow-up penguin from Chase's party. We met with Bishop Smith and then came back home.
Brad had put the lights on the tree earlier today. So while he made dinner, the kids and I put ornaments on the tree. Correction, I got the ornaments out of their boxes and the kids hung them on the tree while I tried to remain as calm as possible. Decorating the tree ranks right up near the top of my least-favorite things to do during the holidays. I don't know why but it does. My pile of ornaments is still sitting on the floor by the fireplace. Maybe I'll get them up tonight, maybe not.
Dinner was delicious--baked chicken, sauteed chard, steamed broccolini, carrots and green bell peppers, salad, and avocados. A very green dinner :) Have I mentioned before how thankful I am that he is such a good cook?
Lina and Bird finished up his house project. Miranda contributed by coloring the title letters. So glad that is done and we can send it back to school tomorrow.
The kids got on their pajamas and practice their recital songs one time each. Then we all share the Oreo bark from the Wilcocks for a treat. We put the kids to bed much closer to their bedtime tonight. Last night was way too late. Brad and I each read a story to Merek (he had us read the same story The Little Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly). Krish and Lina read in our room until we put them to bed. Miranda watched some more of Pirates of the Caribbean with Brad. They had started it last night but only got about an hour into it before she was ready to go to bed. I think they only watched another 30 minutes tonight. She was tired and she has to get up at 5:20am in the morning for Jazz Band. After the kids were in bed, I cleaned the kitchen and washed dishes. My sweet friend, Susannah, called. We visited for an hour. I so enjoy talking to her.
We played 259's Christmas album while decorating the tree. It is one of my favorite Christmas albums. I love the accapella sound and the variety of songs they sing. It doesn't really feel like Christmas is only two weeks away. Guess I'd better get some more music playing and shopping done. This week is going to be busy though. We have something every night and then my piano recital and Lina's birthday party on Saturday. The shopping will have to wait until next week. But I can still play the music :)
Saturday, December 8, 2012
December 8th
A week of December has gone by . . .
I woke from a deep sleep this morning. It was still very dark so I thought it must be about 2:30am. But the clock read 6:35am! Wow, I slept very soundly all night. Haven't done that for quite some time. It was tempting to go back to bed, but the thought occured to me that the Y opens at 7am on Saturday and if I didn't go then I wouldn't go all day. So I put on my exercise clothes, ate a mandarin orange, grabbed my water and earphones and headed out the door. I was the first one to the Y. :) The channel on the the treadmill TV was set to a Zumba Fitness infomercial. Seriously, I watched that for the first 30 minutes of walking! And was tempted to buy the DVD set. But I still had to walk 30 more minutes and the incredible deal only had 20 more seconds to call. (LOL) It was a good work out and I'm SO happy that I went and did it first thing this morning.
As soon as I walked in the door at 8:15am, my cute neighbor arrived for her piano lesson. I used to babysit her when she was 4 months old. Now she is 6 and in first grade. It is fun to have her as a piano student.
After her lesson, I made some breakfast for the girls and myself (eggs, toast for them, frozen strawberries for me). I got ready for the day and we all headed down to the Venturing Crew Christmas tree lot to find our tree for the year. Krish was excited to see his friend, Jake, there. The boys all ran around the lot while the adults and girls hunted for the perfect tree. It didn't take long, maybe 10 minutes, and we found the Noble that we thought would fit best. About 8 feet, a few spaces for hanging ornaments, and little lopsided at the bottom (embrace imperfection). While they did a "butt-cut" on the tree and I paid the money for it, the kids filled up styrofoam cups with apple cider and hot cocoa. It was a brisk morning--a good one for a warm drink. I noticed the container that the cocoa and cider were in and made a mental note to find one for my wassail at the recital next Saturday.
We drove home with a tree lashed to our roof and mud on our shoes. This year our tree will be in the family room again, but in a different corner. I bought a new bookshelf a few months ago and it is in the corner where we usually put the tree. So we are moving the tree across the room to the corner by the windows. We had to rearrange the couches so the loveseat is by the tree and the longer couch borders the eating area. It should work well for the holiday season. The tree was still wet from the rain this week so we didn't get to put the lights or ornaments on yet. We'll do that tomorrow after church.
I had an appointment to donate blood at 10:45 so I left after we put the tree in the stand. The blood bank bus was at the outlet mall. Ever since I was 16 I've donated blood. My blood type, O negative, is the universal donor. It doesn't bother me to give blood and I have good veins for it. So when I'm healthy and well, it's something I try to do every 8 weeks. The Carter's outlet was right by the bus so I stopped in there after donating to get a couple of pairs of pants for Merek. He came out of his room this morning in his shirt and unders and said, "Mom, I don't have any pants." He did have a clean pair folded in a pile of laundry in my room. We put those on him but I knew he was low on pants. He has grown quite a bit this fall. I bought him two sweatpants--size 5! Cannot believe my little baby is that big already!
Miranda had a babysitting job at 12:30pm. She left about the same time DH and Merek went to a birthday party at the swimming pool for Chase. Heather called and invited Bird and Krish to come down and play with her boys. Just me and Lina were left at home. She cleaned up the toy room for me (the kids had been playing in there earlier, making a fort and a big mess) then she watched her new Tinkerbell movie that she got for her birthday. I sat down for little creative time--using some brand-new product and some older product that I found while cleaning out a file. I decided that as I come across this older product, I either need to use it or toss it. If I can't figure out a way to use it now, then it isn't staying.
When Merek and DH returned home, I walked with Merek down to Heather's so he could play with Matthew for a bit. Heather and I visited as the boys played. She has four boys of her own, so add in my three--it was not quiet or calm. But it was fun. It is great to have them as neighbors and friends. Our families moved into the neighborhood the same week almost 8 years ago! Heather is a such a good friend. It's always nice to have a neighbor like that that you can rely on for anything.
The boys and I walked home. DH decided he wanted sushi for dinner. But I didn't really feel like that so he took the four kids with him. I stayed home and waited for Miranda. She got home a little while after they left. She had some homework to finish and worked on that while I made a couple of more cards.
Today we received four yummy treats--cinnamon apple slices that were left on our milkbox(I think Jen brought these over for me because they are a recipe of Paige's); orange rolls from the Barnards (always a favorite of mine; she dropped off a DVD with the Christmas Story that has pictures of little kids dressed up in the Nativity costumes--Merek is a wise man in it); Merek's friend, Brighton, brought him over some frosted sugar cookies; and Miranda brought home Oreo bark from the Wilcocks.
DH and the kids returned about 6:15pm and they were ready to watch the Tinkerbell movie. (DH was ready to watch the Gonzaga/Illinois basketball game). Miranda needed a newspaper for Social Studies on Monday. I drove her up to IGA to get one and we also bought some food for the two of us to eat for dinner.
Bird's house project still wasn't done so I told the kids they had to work on it for 15 minutes before they could watch the movie. Krish disappeared. I don't know where Miranda went. So just Lina and Bird worked on it. They asked me for some snowflake and star stickers. Lina made a snowman out of cottonballs. When she came upstairs to get the stickers from me, she asked if I had any stocking stickers. I didn't but I cut some stockings for her with my Slice. They worked on it for about 30 minutes, then realized it had been longer than 15 minutes. The house is about halfway done. It should be easy enough to finish up tomorrow.
While the kids watched their movie and DH watched his basketball game, I finished up a card. Then I moved about the house--changing the laundry, doing the dishes, practicing my music for tomorrow. Miranda and I are playing the prelude for church. We are playing a duet of "Angels We Have Heard on High" on the piano. Her part was supposed to be on the flute but she didn't have enough practice time this week with it, so she is going to play in an octave higher on the piano as a descant. It will sound good. I am also playing a solo of The First Noel. Since it's prelude music it probably won't get too much attention as people come into the chapel and find their seats. Not too much pressure :)
A couple of times today I thought about taking pictures of things but didn't. I did get a picture of the kids in front of the Christmas tree at the lot. Hmmm . . . maybe I'll use that for our cards. Some of the pics I thought about taking: Merek all bundled up to go pick out the tree; the tree on top of the van; Merek with his cookies and pictures from Brighton; Lina all dressed up wearing make-up, dangling earrings, a black felt hat, and my eyeglasses; and the growing number of Christmas cards on the door.
DH was very helpful tonight and folded lots of laundry for me. I told him I'd do the socks and underwear. He really doesn't like folding/matching those. I helped Krish clean out and organized his drawers a bit. Then the girls tried on some jeans that had been given to us. The ones that didn't fit went into a bag for donation. I filled up another donation bag with other clothes that have gotten too small or we just don't wear any longer. Need to do a little more purging before the pick-up on Wednesday.
Today I am thankful for recognizing that no one is perfect. Everyone had their problems, their struggles, their flaws. I don't need to compare myself to others, but instead, just be the best person I can be for me and my family and to be happy.
I woke from a deep sleep this morning. It was still very dark so I thought it must be about 2:30am. But the clock read 6:35am! Wow, I slept very soundly all night. Haven't done that for quite some time. It was tempting to go back to bed, but the thought occured to me that the Y opens at 7am on Saturday and if I didn't go then I wouldn't go all day. So I put on my exercise clothes, ate a mandarin orange, grabbed my water and earphones and headed out the door. I was the first one to the Y. :) The channel on the the treadmill TV was set to a Zumba Fitness infomercial. Seriously, I watched that for the first 30 minutes of walking! And was tempted to buy the DVD set. But I still had to walk 30 more minutes and the incredible deal only had 20 more seconds to call. (LOL) It was a good work out and I'm SO happy that I went and did it first thing this morning.
As soon as I walked in the door at 8:15am, my cute neighbor arrived for her piano lesson. I used to babysit her when she was 4 months old. Now she is 6 and in first grade. It is fun to have her as a piano student.
After her lesson, I made some breakfast for the girls and myself (eggs, toast for them, frozen strawberries for me). I got ready for the day and we all headed down to the Venturing Crew Christmas tree lot to find our tree for the year. Krish was excited to see his friend, Jake, there. The boys all ran around the lot while the adults and girls hunted for the perfect tree. It didn't take long, maybe 10 minutes, and we found the Noble that we thought would fit best. About 8 feet, a few spaces for hanging ornaments, and little lopsided at the bottom (embrace imperfection). While they did a "butt-cut" on the tree and I paid the money for it, the kids filled up styrofoam cups with apple cider and hot cocoa. It was a brisk morning--a good one for a warm drink. I noticed the container that the cocoa and cider were in and made a mental note to find one for my wassail at the recital next Saturday.
We drove home with a tree lashed to our roof and mud on our shoes. This year our tree will be in the family room again, but in a different corner. I bought a new bookshelf a few months ago and it is in the corner where we usually put the tree. So we are moving the tree across the room to the corner by the windows. We had to rearrange the couches so the loveseat is by the tree and the longer couch borders the eating area. It should work well for the holiday season. The tree was still wet from the rain this week so we didn't get to put the lights or ornaments on yet. We'll do that tomorrow after church.
I had an appointment to donate blood at 10:45 so I left after we put the tree in the stand. The blood bank bus was at the outlet mall. Ever since I was 16 I've donated blood. My blood type, O negative, is the universal donor. It doesn't bother me to give blood and I have good veins for it. So when I'm healthy and well, it's something I try to do every 8 weeks. The Carter's outlet was right by the bus so I stopped in there after donating to get a couple of pairs of pants for Merek. He came out of his room this morning in his shirt and unders and said, "Mom, I don't have any pants." He did have a clean pair folded in a pile of laundry in my room. We put those on him but I knew he was low on pants. He has grown quite a bit this fall. I bought him two sweatpants--size 5! Cannot believe my little baby is that big already!
Miranda had a babysitting job at 12:30pm. She left about the same time DH and Merek went to a birthday party at the swimming pool for Chase. Heather called and invited Bird and Krish to come down and play with her boys. Just me and Lina were left at home. She cleaned up the toy room for me (the kids had been playing in there earlier, making a fort and a big mess) then she watched her new Tinkerbell movie that she got for her birthday. I sat down for little creative time--using some brand-new product and some older product that I found while cleaning out a file. I decided that as I come across this older product, I either need to use it or toss it. If I can't figure out a way to use it now, then it isn't staying.
When Merek and DH returned home, I walked with Merek down to Heather's so he could play with Matthew for a bit. Heather and I visited as the boys played. She has four boys of her own, so add in my three--it was not quiet or calm. But it was fun. It is great to have them as neighbors and friends. Our families moved into the neighborhood the same week almost 8 years ago! Heather is a such a good friend. It's always nice to have a neighbor like that that you can rely on for anything.
The boys and I walked home. DH decided he wanted sushi for dinner. But I didn't really feel like that so he took the four kids with him. I stayed home and waited for Miranda. She got home a little while after they left. She had some homework to finish and worked on that while I made a couple of more cards.
Today we received four yummy treats--cinnamon apple slices that were left on our milkbox(I think Jen brought these over for me because they are a recipe of Paige's); orange rolls from the Barnards (always a favorite of mine; she dropped off a DVD with the Christmas Story that has pictures of little kids dressed up in the Nativity costumes--Merek is a wise man in it); Merek's friend, Brighton, brought him over some frosted sugar cookies; and Miranda brought home Oreo bark from the Wilcocks.
DH and the kids returned about 6:15pm and they were ready to watch the Tinkerbell movie. (DH was ready to watch the Gonzaga/Illinois basketball game). Miranda needed a newspaper for Social Studies on Monday. I drove her up to IGA to get one and we also bought some food for the two of us to eat for dinner.
Bird's house project still wasn't done so I told the kids they had to work on it for 15 minutes before they could watch the movie. Krish disappeared. I don't know where Miranda went. So just Lina and Bird worked on it. They asked me for some snowflake and star stickers. Lina made a snowman out of cottonballs. When she came upstairs to get the stickers from me, she asked if I had any stocking stickers. I didn't but I cut some stockings for her with my Slice. They worked on it for about 30 minutes, then realized it had been longer than 15 minutes. The house is about halfway done. It should be easy enough to finish up tomorrow.
While the kids watched their movie and DH watched his basketball game, I finished up a card. Then I moved about the house--changing the laundry, doing the dishes, practicing my music for tomorrow. Miranda and I are playing the prelude for church. We are playing a duet of "Angels We Have Heard on High" on the piano. Her part was supposed to be on the flute but she didn't have enough practice time this week with it, so she is going to play in an octave higher on the piano as a descant. It will sound good. I am also playing a solo of The First Noel. Since it's prelude music it probably won't get too much attention as people come into the chapel and find their seats. Not too much pressure :)
A couple of times today I thought about taking pictures of things but didn't. I did get a picture of the kids in front of the Christmas tree at the lot. Hmmm . . . maybe I'll use that for our cards. Some of the pics I thought about taking: Merek all bundled up to go pick out the tree; the tree on top of the van; Merek with his cookies and pictures from Brighton; Lina all dressed up wearing make-up, dangling earrings, a black felt hat, and my eyeglasses; and the growing number of Christmas cards on the door.
DH was very helpful tonight and folded lots of laundry for me. I told him I'd do the socks and underwear. He really doesn't like folding/matching those. I helped Krish clean out and organized his drawers a bit. Then the girls tried on some jeans that had been given to us. The ones that didn't fit went into a bag for donation. I filled up another donation bag with other clothes that have gotten too small or we just don't wear any longer. Need to do a little more purging before the pick-up on Wednesday.
Today I am thankful for recognizing that no one is perfect. Everyone had their problems, their struggles, their flaws. I don't need to compare myself to others, but instead, just be the best person I can be for me and my family and to be happy.
Friday, December 7, 2012
December 7th
Miranda woke me up a little after 6 am to drive her to Jazz Band. So tired this morning! I admire her for getting up each morning at 5:20am. As we were driving out of the neighborhood, I saw two women walking along the Parkway. What a reminder for today! I miss those early morning walks with Paige.
I had to stop to get gas in the van after dropping her off. Yesterday I drove around with my Low Fuel light on all day. On the way to Krish's concert, we pulled into the station to fill up but both DH and I had left our wallets at home. I assured him we still had 30 more miles to go before completely running out of gas (and hoping that my calculations were correct). $80.00+ for gas today. I'm thankful the price has gone down under $4/gallon.
In the mail yesterday, I received the Jan/Feb issue of Creating Keepsakes. I have a layout in there on page 14. The picture on the layout is of DH and me. I showed him and said, "look your in a magazine". He didn't seem too impressed. But Bird sure was--"Mom, YOUR project is in a NEWSPAPER?" Yes, a magazine. It was pretty cute and made me feel good to see how excited he was for it.
On the treadmill today, I read the CK issue instead of watching tv. I also listened to the music playlist on my Windows phone. Nokia has a music app set up so I can just pick what type of music to listen to and it has a shuffled list of songs. Reading the whole CK issue took almost the entire time on the treadmill. It gave me the idea to do that more often because I have a stack of magazines that I still need to read.
After the Y, Merek and I went to pick up Allie from the bus center. She comes out to our house every Friday to nanny for me while I teach piano lessons (I have ten scheduled students on Fridays). We only have Allie for two more Fridays, though. I know the kids will miss her. Especially Merek because she will play "Callastie" with him. It's some make-believe game where he dresses up in costumes.
While I taught piano lessons, Allie took the kids to the library for awhile. Miranda went to visit her friend, Elizabeth. They are watching the Lord of the Rings before The Hobbit comes out next week. My mom and some friends stopped by for a few minutes to drop off a Christmas gift. They had attended Elf at the theater in Seattle last night. It was good to see mom, even if only for a few minutes.
Lina and a group of girls from church were attending "Clara and the Nutcracker" this evening. I was able to go with them. It was at a youth theater. The production was fun to watch. I enjoyed seeing the youth actors and actresses really get into their parts.
It was a busy day, which I am thankful for. Needed the distractions. Looking forward to the weekend.
I had to stop to get gas in the van after dropping her off. Yesterday I drove around with my Low Fuel light on all day. On the way to Krish's concert, we pulled into the station to fill up but both DH and I had left our wallets at home. I assured him we still had 30 more miles to go before completely running out of gas (and hoping that my calculations were correct). $80.00+ for gas today. I'm thankful the price has gone down under $4/gallon.
In the mail yesterday, I received the Jan/Feb issue of Creating Keepsakes. I have a layout in there on page 14. The picture on the layout is of DH and me. I showed him and said, "look your in a magazine". He didn't seem too impressed. But Bird sure was--"Mom, YOUR project is in a NEWSPAPER?" Yes, a magazine. It was pretty cute and made me feel good to see how excited he was for it.
On the treadmill today, I read the CK issue instead of watching tv. I also listened to the music playlist on my Windows phone. Nokia has a music app set up so I can just pick what type of music to listen to and it has a shuffled list of songs. Reading the whole CK issue took almost the entire time on the treadmill. It gave me the idea to do that more often because I have a stack of magazines that I still need to read.
After the Y, Merek and I went to pick up Allie from the bus center. She comes out to our house every Friday to nanny for me while I teach piano lessons (I have ten scheduled students on Fridays). We only have Allie for two more Fridays, though. I know the kids will miss her. Especially Merek because she will play "Callastie" with him. It's some make-believe game where he dresses up in costumes.
While I taught piano lessons, Allie took the kids to the library for awhile. Miranda went to visit her friend, Elizabeth. They are watching the Lord of the Rings before The Hobbit comes out next week. My mom and some friends stopped by for a few minutes to drop off a Christmas gift. They had attended Elf at the theater in Seattle last night. It was good to see mom, even if only for a few minutes.
Lina and a group of girls from church were attending "Clara and the Nutcracker" this evening. I was able to go with them. It was at a youth theater. The production was fun to watch. I enjoyed seeing the youth actors and actresses really get into their parts.
It was a busy day, which I am thankful for. Needed the distractions. Looking forward to the weekend.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
December 6th
Happy Birthday, Catalina!
Miranda and DH had to leave before she woke up. The boys and I sang Happy Birthday to her to wake her up. We had warm cinnamon rolls right from the oven ready for breakfast. She was happy :) I drove her to school since she had crossing guard and a box of cupcakes to share with her class. We had to leave a few minutes before the bus arrived to pick up the boys. I let them leave the house on their own and head up to the bus stop when it was time. I think that made them feel responsible. Sometimes I worry that I am too overprotective and don't give them enough opportunities like that. I don't know if it is overprotectiveness, or just not ready to see them grow up so quickly.
Merek and I came home and made Lina's birthday fudge. I was so happy to see it setting up. Finally a recipe of fudge I can make! Thanks, Allie, for the suggestion. We have extra for you to take home Friday :)
Merek headed to preschool (mommy co-op) and I went to the Y. I'm really starting to feel like this is a good routine--me walking on the treadmill everyday. Some excuse to not go enters my mind every morning but once I'm there, I'm happy that I didn't give in.
Krish had his 3rd grade concert today. He took a Santa hat to wear during the performances. He seemed pretty excited about it, but he sure wasn't very enthusiastic while singing. There was one girl in the front row (I don't remember her name, just that when I counted sit-ups for her for the Presidential Fitness testing she did 58 sit-ups in 60 seconds. I asked her if she was a gymnast. She smiled and said yes). She was VERY animated during the final Jingle Bells song, it was hilarious. She was dancing around and had the best facial expressions. We were trying so hard not to laugh because she was thoroughly entertaining us.
Merek asked me to make him mac-n-cheese for lunch today. I obliged. Haven't made it for a very long time. I didn't even eat any. He was very happy. Then he went to his friend's house to play. I got some cleaning done in the kitchen, as well as some prep work for Lina's lasagna dinner.
We received four Christmas cards in the mail today, doubling our current number hanging on the door to the garage. I love hearing from friends and family. Most of them are people our kdis don't know so I like to tell them stories or funny things about those people. We still need to get our cards printed. ahem.
Snow in the mountains today. They said maybe up to two feet tonight. Wish it were falling here instead of the rain.
Miranda and I went down to the school to watch the concert assembly. Then we helped set up chairs for the evening concert. A bonus to this--getting reserved seating at the concert. Then we can show up five minutes before it begins and still have 2nd row seats, instead of way in the back where we can't see very well.
Lina had a good birthday at school. She had some leftover cupcakes and shared them with the other 5th grade teachers and her 3rd grade teacher. The kids visited with her after school. She had Miranda for 3rd grade, too. Six years has gone by quickly!
Bird was working on his homework today. He has packets each week that are due on Friday. He needed me to help him with his practice spelling test but I was in the middle of putting the lasagna together. So he went out to the piano and practiced both his piano and his violin. I almost always have to ask him to practice his violing. I think having Christmas songs to work on was fun for him. After he practiced, he sang along as Miranda played some Christmas carols. Loved it! He had a holiday project due tomorrow but we just didn't get enough time to work on it this week. I emailed his teacher and said he wouldn't be able to turn it in tomorrow. In the past, I would have stressed over it and tried to get it done with him tonight. But I realized it really isn't worth it. We will work on it over the weekend and send it back on Monday. Much less stress.
We had dinner (the lasagna was delicious) and then headed down to Krish's concert. The 5th grade band was performing as well. Gotta love those basic tunes--Twinkle Little Star, Lightly Row, London Bridge. I really like the set of songs the music teacher chose for this year's 3rd grade concert. Fun songs about winter and sledding, an arrangement of Over the River. We've had several repeats of concerts as our kids have moved through elementary school. Different is good :)
When we arrived back home, we had Lina's birthday fudge and then she opened her gifts. The boys were crazy--too much sugar from the fudge?? Sometimes it is hard to deal with their energy levels but I know all too soon the time will come where it is dull and boring. Maybe not? I just picture teenage boys watching uninterested as their older sister opens her birthday gifts.
Miranda and DH had to leave before she woke up. The boys and I sang Happy Birthday to her to wake her up. We had warm cinnamon rolls right from the oven ready for breakfast. She was happy :) I drove her to school since she had crossing guard and a box of cupcakes to share with her class. We had to leave a few minutes before the bus arrived to pick up the boys. I let them leave the house on their own and head up to the bus stop when it was time. I think that made them feel responsible. Sometimes I worry that I am too overprotective and don't give them enough opportunities like that. I don't know if it is overprotectiveness, or just not ready to see them grow up so quickly.
Merek and I came home and made Lina's birthday fudge. I was so happy to see it setting up. Finally a recipe of fudge I can make! Thanks, Allie, for the suggestion. We have extra for you to take home Friday :)
Merek headed to preschool (mommy co-op) and I went to the Y. I'm really starting to feel like this is a good routine--me walking on the treadmill everyday. Some excuse to not go enters my mind every morning but once I'm there, I'm happy that I didn't give in.
Krish had his 3rd grade concert today. He took a Santa hat to wear during the performances. He seemed pretty excited about it, but he sure wasn't very enthusiastic while singing. There was one girl in the front row (I don't remember her name, just that when I counted sit-ups for her for the Presidential Fitness testing she did 58 sit-ups in 60 seconds. I asked her if she was a gymnast. She smiled and said yes). She was VERY animated during the final Jingle Bells song, it was hilarious. She was dancing around and had the best facial expressions. We were trying so hard not to laugh because she was thoroughly entertaining us.
Merek asked me to make him mac-n-cheese for lunch today. I obliged. Haven't made it for a very long time. I didn't even eat any. He was very happy. Then he went to his friend's house to play. I got some cleaning done in the kitchen, as well as some prep work for Lina's lasagna dinner.
We received four Christmas cards in the mail today, doubling our current number hanging on the door to the garage. I love hearing from friends and family. Most of them are people our kdis don't know so I like to tell them stories or funny things about those people. We still need to get our cards printed. ahem.
Snow in the mountains today. They said maybe up to two feet tonight. Wish it were falling here instead of the rain.
Miranda and I went down to the school to watch the concert assembly. Then we helped set up chairs for the evening concert. A bonus to this--getting reserved seating at the concert. Then we can show up five minutes before it begins and still have 2nd row seats, instead of way in the back where we can't see very well.
Lina had a good birthday at school. She had some leftover cupcakes and shared them with the other 5th grade teachers and her 3rd grade teacher. The kids visited with her after school. She had Miranda for 3rd grade, too. Six years has gone by quickly!
Bird was working on his homework today. He has packets each week that are due on Friday. He needed me to help him with his practice spelling test but I was in the middle of putting the lasagna together. So he went out to the piano and practiced both his piano and his violin. I almost always have to ask him to practice his violing. I think having Christmas songs to work on was fun for him. After he practiced, he sang along as Miranda played some Christmas carols. Loved it! He had a holiday project due tomorrow but we just didn't get enough time to work on it this week. I emailed his teacher and said he wouldn't be able to turn it in tomorrow. In the past, I would have stressed over it and tried to get it done with him tonight. But I realized it really isn't worth it. We will work on it over the weekend and send it back on Monday. Much less stress.
We had dinner (the lasagna was delicious) and then headed down to Krish's concert. The 5th grade band was performing as well. Gotta love those basic tunes--Twinkle Little Star, Lightly Row, London Bridge. I really like the set of songs the music teacher chose for this year's 3rd grade concert. Fun songs about winter and sledding, an arrangement of Over the River. We've had several repeats of concerts as our kids have moved through elementary school. Different is good :)
When we arrived back home, we had Lina's birthday fudge and then she opened her gifts. The boys were crazy--too much sugar from the fudge?? Sometimes it is hard to deal with their energy levels but I know all too soon the time will come where it is dull and boring. Maybe not? I just picture teenage boys watching uninterested as their older sister opens her birthday gifts.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
December 5
Just got home from the middle school holiday concert. It was great to hear Miranda play the piano and flute in Jazz Band. She had a few parts in the Jazz Band piece where only the piano is heard--the first one she played, DH and I looked at each other and smiled. That's our girl :) She also played flute with the 8th grade band. They performed last and after their two performance pieces, they played the accompaniment for the audience to sing four Christmas carols. Very festive.
Miranda's friend, Audrey, babysat for us tonight. The kids seemed to enjoy having her here. But she said they are probably moving in January. I asked her how they had behaved and she said fine. But then Merek piped up, "Christian did not behave." Oh, that reminds me, yesterday in the car on the way home from school, the kids were being CRAZY in the car. I told them they had to behave or they wouldn't get their snack when we got home. Merek said, "Mom, I'm being haved." There's story from my dad's childhood about someone "hav-ing". It made me smile.
Bird had violin lesson this afternoon. I cannot wait until he is on a bigger violin. The little one he has now if the perfect size for him but I think a bigger one will have a better sound. He is doing well and his teacher gave him some Christmas songs to work on this week. LOVE having Christmas music playing in the house.
Miranda went over to a friend's to work on a school project and came home with straightened hair and a little twist pulled back for the concert. When did my little girl grow up?
I taught three piano lesssons today. Each at various stages in their piano development. I really enjoy teaching piano lessons and think that it is something that I will do even after my kids grow up and leave home. Mom and Dad, thank you for paying for my lessons for 13 years. And thank you to my piano teacher, Mrs. Wilfong. She put up with more than she should have from me.
Lina's 5th grade was selling poinsettias as a fundraiser. We picked up the two we ordered this afternoon. My mantle was looking a little bare and so I put one of them on top of it. But then I ended up moving it to the bookcase and putting another Christmas decoration on the mantle. The other plant is in the entry way on the shelf unit. They look pretty. This morning when I was walking on the treadmill at the Y, HGTV had a segment on decorating for Christmas. They said a mantle can never have too much. It is the centerpiece of the room. I want to do a little more with mine but not sure we'll have time this year. Maybe I'll plan something fun for next year and then hit the after-holiday sales on decorations :)
Thanks to Allie for recommending her Uncle Bruce's fudge recipe. I called my sister this morning and asked her for it. Not only did she email me the fudge recipe but also her cinnamon roll recipe. Lina wants cinnamon rolls for her birthday breakfast but I don't think I'll have time to make unless I get up at 3am. Um, no. So I bought Pillsbury Cinnabon Grands--hope they taste good (I won't know since I'm on my diet. Well, maybe I'll have a bite). Merek and I went to the store before he had preschool and bought the fudge and lasagna ingredients for the birthday meals. And hot dog buns--she wants peanut butter on a hot dog bun for lunch. ?? This afternoon I made the spice cupcakes for her classroom treat tomorrow. She frosted them with cream cheese frosting and put a gingerbread man cookie on top of each. She has crossing guard in the morning so hopefully no one swipes one while she is outside.
Krish has been working really hard on his piano recital songs. He has Ghost at Midnight memorized. Joy to the World is almost done. He just has two tricky spots. And he needs to hold his dotted half-notes for three full beats :) He'll get it, though.
The sun was shining for awhile this morning. It lifted my mood. Amazing how that works. There is snow on the mountains. I wonder if we'll get some soon.
Looking forward to tomorrow and celebrating Lina's 11th birthday. Trying to focus on good memories for Friday as I remember Paige and the wonderful friend she was in my life. I do miss her, so much.
Miranda's friend, Audrey, babysat for us tonight. The kids seemed to enjoy having her here. But she said they are probably moving in January. I asked her how they had behaved and she said fine. But then Merek piped up, "Christian did not behave." Oh, that reminds me, yesterday in the car on the way home from school, the kids were being CRAZY in the car. I told them they had to behave or they wouldn't get their snack when we got home. Merek said, "Mom, I'm being haved." There's story from my dad's childhood about someone "hav-ing". It made me smile.
Bird had violin lesson this afternoon. I cannot wait until he is on a bigger violin. The little one he has now if the perfect size for him but I think a bigger one will have a better sound. He is doing well and his teacher gave him some Christmas songs to work on this week. LOVE having Christmas music playing in the house.
Miranda went over to a friend's to work on a school project and came home with straightened hair and a little twist pulled back for the concert. When did my little girl grow up?
I taught three piano lesssons today. Each at various stages in their piano development. I really enjoy teaching piano lessons and think that it is something that I will do even after my kids grow up and leave home. Mom and Dad, thank you for paying for my lessons for 13 years. And thank you to my piano teacher, Mrs. Wilfong. She put up with more than she should have from me.
Lina's 5th grade was selling poinsettias as a fundraiser. We picked up the two we ordered this afternoon. My mantle was looking a little bare and so I put one of them on top of it. But then I ended up moving it to the bookcase and putting another Christmas decoration on the mantle. The other plant is in the entry way on the shelf unit. They look pretty. This morning when I was walking on the treadmill at the Y, HGTV had a segment on decorating for Christmas. They said a mantle can never have too much. It is the centerpiece of the room. I want to do a little more with mine but not sure we'll have time this year. Maybe I'll plan something fun for next year and then hit the after-holiday sales on decorations :)
Thanks to Allie for recommending her Uncle Bruce's fudge recipe. I called my sister this morning and asked her for it. Not only did she email me the fudge recipe but also her cinnamon roll recipe. Lina wants cinnamon rolls for her birthday breakfast but I don't think I'll have time to make unless I get up at 3am. Um, no. So I bought Pillsbury Cinnabon Grands--hope they taste good (I won't know since I'm on my diet. Well, maybe I'll have a bite). Merek and I went to the store before he had preschool and bought the fudge and lasagna ingredients for the birthday meals. And hot dog buns--she wants peanut butter on a hot dog bun for lunch. ?? This afternoon I made the spice cupcakes for her classroom treat tomorrow. She frosted them with cream cheese frosting and put a gingerbread man cookie on top of each. She has crossing guard in the morning so hopefully no one swipes one while she is outside.
Krish has been working really hard on his piano recital songs. He has Ghost at Midnight memorized. Joy to the World is almost done. He just has two tricky spots. And he needs to hold his dotted half-notes for three full beats :) He'll get it, though.
The sun was shining for awhile this morning. It lifted my mood. Amazing how that works. There is snow on the mountains. I wonder if we'll get some soon.
Looking forward to tomorrow and celebrating Lina's 11th birthday. Trying to focus on good memories for Friday as I remember Paige and the wonderful friend she was in my life. I do miss her, so much.
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