I'm a mom. I have 2 sons: Drew, who is my favorite, and Nick, who is also my favorite. My husband, Andy, is a police officer. I take lots of pictures, and I like to think that they're good. I scrapbook. Oh, and I also work full time in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory. Currently my biggest desire is to find land available and build a house far out in the country, no neighbors nearby, with space for a herd of cattle and a big veggie garden.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Empty Threats
Last night I asked Nick to please put his toys away. It was almost bedtime, and the house was a mess. Nick looked at me with his meanest face and said
"I'll take you down, Mom. I will."
It was very hard for me not to laugh. To hear that threat come so seriously out of the mouth of a 3 year old was pretty amusing.
I asked him if he knew what that meant, and he said
"No. But I'll take you down. I will."
By some miracle I managed to maintain my composure. I told him that it wasn't a very nice thing to say, and that it could hurt feelings, and that he shouldn't say that to anyone anymore.
He just glared at me, but went about the business of picking up his toys. Because he wants to be big and tough and defiant, but really he's just a sweet little boy.
Later, after Drew was asleep and I thought Nick was asleep and Andy had left for work, I was sitting in my chair reading a book. The television was off and the house was silent. I heard this rustling noise coming from just outside the living room, and when I got up to see what the cats were into I found Nicky sneaking out of his room.
"Mom..."
And he started to cry. I was totally confused. I asked him what was the matter, and I picked him up and carried him back to his bed. He was crying pretty hard. I offered a drink of water, a trip to the bathroom, a snack, even to lay down with him. After about 5 minutes he calmed down.
"I'm sorry I tried to take you down, Mom. I'm not mean. I won't do it again, I promise."
OK, now I feel really guilty. I never told him he was bad or even raised my voice. I just told him that he shouldn't say that because it wasn't nice. And in Nick's brain that morphed into 'being mean to Mom'. He really thought I was upset with him, when in fact I had forgotten all about it.
He's such a sweet little guy. So sensitive. So unlike his mother. I really need to be more careful around him, I think. I'd hate to scar him for life with some unthinking comment. Because then he might just take me down.
"I'll take you down, Mom. I will."
It was very hard for me not to laugh. To hear that threat come so seriously out of the mouth of a 3 year old was pretty amusing.
I asked him if he knew what that meant, and he said
"No. But I'll take you down. I will."
By some miracle I managed to maintain my composure. I told him that it wasn't a very nice thing to say, and that it could hurt feelings, and that he shouldn't say that to anyone anymore.
He just glared at me, but went about the business of picking up his toys. Because he wants to be big and tough and defiant, but really he's just a sweet little boy.
Later, after Drew was asleep and I thought Nick was asleep and Andy had left for work, I was sitting in my chair reading a book. The television was off and the house was silent. I heard this rustling noise coming from just outside the living room, and when I got up to see what the cats were into I found Nicky sneaking out of his room.
"Mom..."
And he started to cry. I was totally confused. I asked him what was the matter, and I picked him up and carried him back to his bed. He was crying pretty hard. I offered a drink of water, a trip to the bathroom, a snack, even to lay down with him. After about 5 minutes he calmed down.
"I'm sorry I tried to take you down, Mom. I'm not mean. I won't do it again, I promise."
OK, now I feel really guilty. I never told him he was bad or even raised my voice. I just told him that he shouldn't say that because it wasn't nice. And in Nick's brain that morphed into 'being mean to Mom'. He really thought I was upset with him, when in fact I had forgotten all about it.
He's such a sweet little guy. So sensitive. So unlike his mother. I really need to be more careful around him, I think. I'd hate to scar him for life with some unthinking comment. Because then he might just take me down.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Things that make me happy
A list of things (things, not people, so you don't think I'm totally materialistic and leaving my family and friends off of the list) that make me happy. In no particular order:
- My new down comforter (pictured above), encased in damask duvet cover. Coupled with the down mattress cover, it's like sleeping in a big, warm, fluffy cloud. Heaven, I tell you.
- My camera. I love it. I would only love it more if I had a flash and another lens or two. And time alone to use it.
- A beautiful sunrise or sunset. One of my favorite things to watch, and to photograph.
- A warm house after being outside in the cold. If it's heated with a wood fire, even better.
- Chocolate, especially dark chocolate. And Snickers bars.
- My favorite jeans. They made me even happier today, when they were just a little too big. Too big is good, it means my exercise is paying off.
- Books. Books make me happy. I love to read.
- Music makes me happy, too.
- Some TV shows, and some movies. The feel-good kind. Or just those that have the power to make you feel anything at all. And those that distract my kids for a few minutes so that I can fold a load of laundry without interruption.
- Strawberries, with a little sugar. Or, even better, freshly picked and still warm from the sun. Blackberries, too.
- The smell of fresh cut grass, and alfalfa hay, and bread baking in the oven, and newly plowed fields. And the smell of a fresh, clean little boy right out of the tub and sprinkled with baby powder.
- Christmas, and my birthday.
- Getting the mail. Not just getting mail, but the physical act of taking it out of the mailbox, carrying it to the house, and sorting through it all. So much better if there's a real letter, or card, or postcard.
- Scrapbooking, when I have the opportunity to take my time and put some thought into it.
- Animals. Cows and horses are my favorite.
- Receiving e-mail. Real e-mail, not spam or newsletters.
- My iPod. (OK, I don't have an iPod. But if I did it would make me really happy)
Monday, January 29, 2007
Changes...
First off, like my photos there? The boys took them. I think you're probably smart enough to figure out which kid took which picture, right? They also helped me edit them in Photoshop, which is why they look a little yellowish. It was an effect that's supposed to make them look aged. Did it work? You can see the originals on my Flickr page, if you feel like comparing before and after.
So, why did we have so much time to play with the camera and computer? Well, yesterday was the first day in well over a year that Andy has worked a day shift. Some scheduling mix-ups resulted in him getting days, for this month at least. Of course, it means nothing to me but more work, because he works both weekend days plus Monday and Friday, and I think sometimes Tuesday but I'm not sure. A day shift is 8AM to 6PM. That's a long day, especially when it's only 20 degrees outside and spitting snow flurries.
Anyway, the boys and I had all day to do whatever we wanted. Nick wasn't feeling 100% so we didn't do church. We did, however, take an hour or two and drive down to have lunch with Andy. That was nice. Then they asked if they could take pictures, not with their cameras but with mine. We got out the Sony (the Rebel is just too heavy for them) and they had a blast. Of course, because they watch every move I make and want to copy most of them, the suggestion was made that we "put the pictures on your computer and make them different, Mom".
Here we were, me on the stool and the boys on a kitchen chair on either side, editing these pictures in Photoshop. They had a blast choosing different filters and effects and seeing their photos pop up in funny colors, or as pencil sketches, or really curvy and blurry. Finally they settled on these, for what reason I don't know. But they're quite proud of their Photoshop work, and I've promised to get them prints of their photos for their wallets.
'Cause, you know, every boy carries around a picture of his mom, right?
So, what else am I going to do with them all weekend, every weekend, for a month minimum and possibly (but not likely) longer? It's not such an issue when we can get outside, but when it's raining or 20 degrees this already small house gets alot smaller!
So, why did we have so much time to play with the camera and computer? Well, yesterday was the first day in well over a year that Andy has worked a day shift. Some scheduling mix-ups resulted in him getting days, for this month at least. Of course, it means nothing to me but more work, because he works both weekend days plus Monday and Friday, and I think sometimes Tuesday but I'm not sure. A day shift is 8AM to 6PM. That's a long day, especially when it's only 20 degrees outside and spitting snow flurries.
Anyway, the boys and I had all day to do whatever we wanted. Nick wasn't feeling 100% so we didn't do church. We did, however, take an hour or two and drive down to have lunch with Andy. That was nice. Then they asked if they could take pictures, not with their cameras but with mine. We got out the Sony (the Rebel is just too heavy for them) and they had a blast. Of course, because they watch every move I make and want to copy most of them, the suggestion was made that we "put the pictures on your computer and make them different, Mom".
Here we were, me on the stool and the boys on a kitchen chair on either side, editing these pictures in Photoshop. They had a blast choosing different filters and effects and seeing their photos pop up in funny colors, or as pencil sketches, or really curvy and blurry. Finally they settled on these, for what reason I don't know. But they're quite proud of their Photoshop work, and I've promised to get them prints of their photos for their wallets.
'Cause, you know, every boy carries around a picture of his mom, right?
So, what else am I going to do with them all weekend, every weekend, for a month minimum and possibly (but not likely) longer? It's not such an issue when we can get outside, but when it's raining or 20 degrees this already small house gets alot smaller!
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Photo Sunday #18: Adventures in Photoshop
These photographs may be familiar, but I've tweaked them in Photoshop. I used a process called the Orton Effect. What do you think?
Oh, and the second one from the bottom? That's the first in my "Country Roads" series...
Oh, and the second one from the bottom? That's the first in my "Country Roads" series...
Labels: Photo Sunday
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Proud
Nicky is 3 1/2 years old. The 1/2 was official on January 22. He's a big boy. However, he's also a sentimental little guy, and there are some things that he just hangs on to. Remember, this is the child that didn't give up his paci's until he was almost 3. When he gave up the paci's he did it all on his own, and he was so proud of himself. He didn't give up the sippy cups then, though.
He doesn't need a sippy cup. He's perfectly capable of drinking from a regular cup, and has been since he was very small. He just likes it, mostly because it gives him the ability to wander around the house with his drink as he pleases. And because he can lay down before bed or in bed and have a drink. So, all this time he's had one cup. I refused to have several of them around, so it's just one special cup--I threw all the rest out with the paci's. He only uses it at home. It's a pink Cinderella cup, and it's getting icky. The valve is leaky and the cup is all scratched up and it's just yucky, mainly because he mostly drinks milk in it.
Today at the store I suggested to him that we replace the cup with a new one. For awhile now we've been talking about how, when he turns 4, we're getting rid of the sippy cup, and he seemed OK with that. When I said "replace the cup" I meant with another sippy. And we looked at them, but there were none that he liked. He was really disappointed that there weren't any Cinderella or Diego cups, and so I was just going to look at another store later...until Nick suggested we get him a special big kid cup. I asked him if he was absolutely sure, I explained that this meant throwing the Cinderella cup in the garbage, it meant no more milk lying down at bedtime and no more water in his bed in the night. He was completely agreeable.
So, Nick is now the proud owner of a Superman big boy cup, which right now is sitting on the kitchen table with water in it because "big boy cups don't leave the kitchen, Mom". He only chose Superman because they didn't have a Cinderella big kid cup. I did, however, purchase him a Cinderella "sport sipper" bottle. It has a carry strap and a sport sip lid and the bottom half unscrews and you can carry snacks in it. I only got that because he was so in love with it, with the deal being that it doesn't get milk in it or go in his bed. He agreed.
And, after Drew has been so special lately, with his 100 day stuff and the tooth fairy visiting, he still threw monster fit at the store because I wouldn't buy him a special cup. Of course, I bought him special cups when he gave up the sippy, too, but he doesn't remember that. I didn't give in, though. This is Nicky's accomplishment.
He came home and promptly tossed the Cinderella sippy in the trash, and hasn't looked back since. I am very proud that he's done this all on his own. The only sad moment came when he went looking for Stripey to show her his new cups...
edited to add that at 2:30 this afternoon Drew pulled loose tooth #2. I think he was highly motivated by Nick's new cups. Now he's anxiously awaiting bedtime and the arrival of the tooth fairy.
He doesn't need a sippy cup. He's perfectly capable of drinking from a regular cup, and has been since he was very small. He just likes it, mostly because it gives him the ability to wander around the house with his drink as he pleases. And because he can lay down before bed or in bed and have a drink. So, all this time he's had one cup. I refused to have several of them around, so it's just one special cup--I threw all the rest out with the paci's. He only uses it at home. It's a pink Cinderella cup, and it's getting icky. The valve is leaky and the cup is all scratched up and it's just yucky, mainly because he mostly drinks milk in it.
Today at the store I suggested to him that we replace the cup with a new one. For awhile now we've been talking about how, when he turns 4, we're getting rid of the sippy cup, and he seemed OK with that. When I said "replace the cup" I meant with another sippy. And we looked at them, but there were none that he liked. He was really disappointed that there weren't any Cinderella or Diego cups, and so I was just going to look at another store later...until Nick suggested we get him a special big kid cup. I asked him if he was absolutely sure, I explained that this meant throwing the Cinderella cup in the garbage, it meant no more milk lying down at bedtime and no more water in his bed in the night. He was completely agreeable.
So, Nick is now the proud owner of a Superman big boy cup, which right now is sitting on the kitchen table with water in it because "big boy cups don't leave the kitchen, Mom". He only chose Superman because they didn't have a Cinderella big kid cup. I did, however, purchase him a Cinderella "sport sipper" bottle. It has a carry strap and a sport sip lid and the bottom half unscrews and you can carry snacks in it. I only got that because he was so in love with it, with the deal being that it doesn't get milk in it or go in his bed. He agreed.
And, after Drew has been so special lately, with his 100 day stuff and the tooth fairy visiting, he still threw monster fit at the store because I wouldn't buy him a special cup. Of course, I bought him special cups when he gave up the sippy, too, but he doesn't remember that. I didn't give in, though. This is Nicky's accomplishment.
He came home and promptly tossed the Cinderella sippy in the trash, and hasn't looked back since. I am very proud that he's done this all on his own. The only sad moment came when he went looking for Stripey to show her his new cups...
edited to add that at 2:30 this afternoon Drew pulled loose tooth #2. I think he was highly motivated by Nick's new cups. Now he's anxiously awaiting bedtime and the arrival of the tooth fairy.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Randomness
Time for a bulleted list. No cohesive thoughts today, just ramblings that I'm putting out there. I'm glad it's Friday.
- Drew has another tooth loose. The other middle bottom one. It was loose yesterday. He says he's going to pull it with the pliers as soon as it's a little more wiggly, probably tomorrow. Then he'll have this giant gap in his teeth. It's sort of funny. I can't believe he's going to lose 2 teeth in less than a week.
- Nick is a little curious about the whereabouts of his kitten. He's decided that she's out hunting. Drew has already suggested that she got hit by a car, and Nick shot that idea right out of the water. So, hunting it is. A safari in Africa, perhaps?
- Drew colored a picture at school today that leaves me wondering a bit. It's of our house, with 2 giant tornadoes--one on either side. Not so unusual, after the tornadoes last year. I am in the house, with a broom. Drew and Nick are safely on a mountain top nearby, holding hands. (I wasn't aware of mountains in our area, but oh well...). Andy is swirling around in the tornado. Everyone is smiling and everything, but still. It seems weird. What do you think?
- My webcams are cool. I found out that one of my old college friends has one, too, and he just hopped online, so I'm off to try to conference with him.
- I think I have some cool photos for this weekend. You will like them.
Labels: Drew, Nick, Randomness
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Sometimes Bad Things Happen
This morning my boss, who lives out past me, came into my lab shortly after he arrived at work. "I saw that dead raccoon on the road in front of your house," he said. Yeah, I thought, I saw that, too. I sure wasn't looking forward to picking that up when I went home this afternoon. Then he said "And that skunk, too. Or cat, or whatever it was."
Did he say cat? Yep. A black and white cat.
That would be Stripey, Nick's beloved kitten. I suspect she had gone out to inspect the fat, dead raccoon on the road, because she rarely left the yard. Heck, lately she's rarely left the deck, looking for any opportunity to dash into the house and make herself comfy. She's become a regular fixture around here--we never knew where we might find her.
I arrived home in time to have the pleasure of helping Andy scrape Stripey off the center line and into a trash bag. Because I'm going to lie to my kid. A lie by omission is still a lie, and I'm not going to tell him that she's dead. It will devastate him, and I just can't do it.
So we had to hide the evidence, before he saw it.
I am not a big fan of lying to my children. It rarely happens. I mean, yeah, they know all about Santa, and the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny, you know--your typical childhood beliefs. But I don't lie to them. They know their dog got hit by a car a few years back. They've been told when family members or friends have been ill, or have died. When they ask questions, about religion or nature or death or whatever, I tell them what I know or believe. I might try to scale down the knowledge to a more child-friendly level, but I don't lie. I just don't think it's right.
But for some reason, I just don't feel right about telling Nick about this. If there were a nice kitty body that I could show him and let him say goodbye to, then maybe. But Stripey doesn't look like Stripey anymore, and it strikes me as cold-hearted and cruel to present that mangled mess to a 3 year old and say "Here's your kitty. She's dead". And with no evidence that Stripey no longer exists, I'm not sure he's going to really be able to believe it, anyway.
So, I'm going to tell him that I don't know where Stripey is. Because he's going to notice immediately that she's not here. And if he comes up with ideas on his own, we'll go with that. And if he suggests that maybe Stripey got hit by a car, I'll concede the possibility. But I'm not telling him. I can't.
Did he say cat? Yep. A black and white cat.
That would be Stripey, Nick's beloved kitten. I suspect she had gone out to inspect the fat, dead raccoon on the road, because she rarely left the yard. Heck, lately she's rarely left the deck, looking for any opportunity to dash into the house and make herself comfy. She's become a regular fixture around here--we never knew where we might find her.
I arrived home in time to have the pleasure of helping Andy scrape Stripey off the center line and into a trash bag. Because I'm going to lie to my kid. A lie by omission is still a lie, and I'm not going to tell him that she's dead. It will devastate him, and I just can't do it.
So we had to hide the evidence, before he saw it.
I am not a big fan of lying to my children. It rarely happens. I mean, yeah, they know all about Santa, and the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny, you know--your typical childhood beliefs. But I don't lie to them. They know their dog got hit by a car a few years back. They've been told when family members or friends have been ill, or have died. When they ask questions, about religion or nature or death or whatever, I tell them what I know or believe. I might try to scale down the knowledge to a more child-friendly level, but I don't lie. I just don't think it's right.
But for some reason, I just don't feel right about telling Nick about this. If there were a nice kitty body that I could show him and let him say goodbye to, then maybe. But Stripey doesn't look like Stripey anymore, and it strikes me as cold-hearted and cruel to present that mangled mess to a 3 year old and say "Here's your kitty. She's dead". And with no evidence that Stripey no longer exists, I'm not sure he's going to really be able to believe it, anyway.
So, I'm going to tell him that I don't know where Stripey is. Because he's going to notice immediately that she's not here. And if he comes up with ideas on his own, we'll go with that. And if he suggests that maybe Stripey got hit by a car, I'll concede the possibility. But I'm not telling him. I can't.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
The Little Brother
It must be hard to be the little brother. I wouldn't know. Obviously, I'm a girl. But that's not what I mean. As the oldest of 3 children, I was never in the position of being the youngest, or the middle child. Perhaps one of my brothers would like to weigh in with their opinion here? I sense another guest post in the making...
Sometimes I feel really sorry for Nicholas. Drew goes merrily along through life, doing as he does, and Nick just follows along trying his level best to be just like his big brother. With only a two year age difference, there are many ways in which he can keep up. They can share some clothes. They have several friends in common, from going to the same babysitter. They share a room, and toys. They watch the same television shows and eat the same foods. However, in alot of things--bigger, more significant things--Drew just gets to be first. And Nick gets left behind.
Like back in August, when Drew started school. He just went off to school, like he'd been doing it all of his life. And Nick was left standing at the bus stop with tears in his eyes, not understanding why he couldn't go, too. Drew got the special turkey track shirt for 100 day at school, and, not wanting him to feel left out, I made one for Nick, too. I didn't realize this made Nick think that he'd get to go to the 100 day party as well. Oh, the scene we faced this morning. It was bad, people. Tears and more tears and a very guilty mama. And now, now Nick wants to know why he can't have a loose tooth, too. He says it's not fair that Drew gets to have one and he doesn't. I tried to explain to him that when he has loose teeth Drew won't, but that kind of logic doesn't fly with a 3 1/2 year old.
The thing is, I totally realize that this is something I cannot change. For the rest of his life Nick is going to be two years younger than Drew. Drew will go to high school first. He'll drive first. He'll likely get a job first. He'll go to college first. Does it get easier as they get older?
Sometimes I feel really sorry for Nicholas. Drew goes merrily along through life, doing as he does, and Nick just follows along trying his level best to be just like his big brother. With only a two year age difference, there are many ways in which he can keep up. They can share some clothes. They have several friends in common, from going to the same babysitter. They share a room, and toys. They watch the same television shows and eat the same foods. However, in alot of things--bigger, more significant things--Drew just gets to be first. And Nick gets left behind.
Like back in August, when Drew started school. He just went off to school, like he'd been doing it all of his life. And Nick was left standing at the bus stop with tears in his eyes, not understanding why he couldn't go, too. Drew got the special turkey track shirt for 100 day at school, and, not wanting him to feel left out, I made one for Nick, too. I didn't realize this made Nick think that he'd get to go to the 100 day party as well. Oh, the scene we faced this morning. It was bad, people. Tears and more tears and a very guilty mama. And now, now Nick wants to know why he can't have a loose tooth, too. He says it's not fair that Drew gets to have one and he doesn't. I tried to explain to him that when he has loose teeth Drew won't, but that kind of logic doesn't fly with a 3 1/2 year old.
The thing is, I totally realize that this is something I cannot change. For the rest of his life Nick is going to be two years younger than Drew. Drew will go to high school first. He'll drive first. He'll likely get a job first. He'll go to college first. Does it get easier as they get older?
7PM update: Drew just pulled his tooth. He announced at the supper table that he'd like to do it himself, if I'd let him use pliers. I got him the pliers, never thinking he'd go through with it. He did. It was awesome. Then he freaked out a bit when he saw the blood, and dropped the tiny white tooth into the carpet. Nick and I found it while he sat in the chair and panicked for a few minutes, and then all was well. He's way too excited about this to sit still for a proper photograph, so this blurry one will just have to do...
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
What?!
Since when do kids go away to Kindergarten in the morning as whole entire children and come home with loose parts?
Drew has a loose tooth. It was not loose this morning. It's pretty loose now. Explain to me how that works. And since when does that happen so soon? I mean, really. Drew was just a tiny baby like, yesterday. Or maybe last week, if you want to be really picky about the whole thing. And now he's losing teeth? Not fair.
There is one good thing I've noticed so far. He seems to already know about the tooth fairy, from whom I'm not sure. It wasn't me. But he's not clear on what, exactly, the tooth fairy brings. Good. I was afraid that with inflation he'd be expecting five dollar bills or something after discussing it with his friends at school. Me? I'm thinking she brings Hot Wheels *grin* We'll have to see. If the tooth comes out tonight (but I'm thinking I have a day or two) he's getting a dollar, because I think that's all I have.
What does the tooth fairy bring at your house?
Drew has a loose tooth. It was not loose this morning. It's pretty loose now. Explain to me how that works. And since when does that happen so soon? I mean, really. Drew was just a tiny baby like, yesterday. Or maybe last week, if you want to be really picky about the whole thing. And now he's losing teeth? Not fair.
There is one good thing I've noticed so far. He seems to already know about the tooth fairy, from whom I'm not sure. It wasn't me. But he's not clear on what, exactly, the tooth fairy brings. Good. I was afraid that with inflation he'd be expecting five dollar bills or something after discussing it with his friends at school. Me? I'm thinking she brings Hot Wheels *grin* We'll have to see. If the tooth comes out tonight (but I'm thinking I have a day or two) he's getting a dollar, because I think that's all I have.
What does the tooth fairy bring at your house?
Monday, January 22, 2007
Chaos Reigns
After work today I headed out to the farm to take some photos while Andy had the boys at home. This is not unusual--I do this maybe two or three days a week some weeks, and some weeks not at all, depending on Andy's work schedule and on the weather. I realize that I am very lucky to have this opportunity. Today, like most days that I go out there, I was home by 5:00.
The majority of the time I'm out there, I'm alone. It's just me and my camera. Sometimes, like today, my friend(s) will arrive home while I'm still there and I'll have company for a few minutes. A chance for non-work related adult conversation is always welcomed. As is the opportunity to play with the dog.
But, no matter if I'm alone or in the company of adults, it's a quiet environment. It's out in the country, on a secondary road. The barns are back off of the road. Traffic is light to non existent. Sometimes a cow will moo, birds chirp, the donkey brays. The dog barks. Off in the distance, an occasional shotgun blast. The cry of a hawk, the sound of geese passing overhead. Adult conversation or simply the sound of my own footsteps.
Then I climb into the truck to drive home. I listen to the radio, my last few moments of calm. I know what's coming. It's 11 miles from the farm to the house. 11 miles before I must face the 2 little tornadoes that rule my life and my home.
10 minutes later I pull into the driveway. I gather up my things--purse, camera, odds and ends from the errands that I ran at lunchtime. As I open the door of the truck I see the back door the the house open, and a warm yellow square of light appears on the deck. "Hey! Mama's home! Mama's home!" is what I hear from inside. They know they're not supposed to come out, because they don't have any shoes on and it's cold cold cold outside.
I barely make it through the door before these 2 little people have attached themselves to my legs--one on each side.
"Mom! Mom! I only taked one smile today, and it was for talking! Only one! Are you proud of me today?" (Drew)
"Mom! Mama! I stayed with Daddy today! And I taked a nap! And we had fun! And we're making pizza for supper! We're making it!" (Nick)
"Yeah, we're making it! We got a kit!" (Drew)
"A kit! We got a kit at the store! We got it ourself! Dad took us to the store! Come and see!" (Nick)
"I love you, Mom!" (Drew)
"I missed you today, Mama. Best friend. (Nick)
And then they were gone. Running around the kitchen with their cars. Making pizza from a kit with their daddy. Yelling and not using their inside voices.
Sometimes when I'm out at the farm alone with my camera or talking to my friends I get a little jealous. Or maybe jealous isn't the word. I don't even know what the right word would be. I just think what it might be like to not have the constant chaos, the ever present noise and energy and responsibility that comes with parenting 2 small boys.
Then they tell me that they love me and that I'm their best friend, and it doesn't really matter.
The majority of the time I'm out there, I'm alone. It's just me and my camera. Sometimes, like today, my friend(s) will arrive home while I'm still there and I'll have company for a few minutes. A chance for non-work related adult conversation is always welcomed. As is the opportunity to play with the dog.
But, no matter if I'm alone or in the company of adults, it's a quiet environment. It's out in the country, on a secondary road. The barns are back off of the road. Traffic is light to non existent. Sometimes a cow will moo, birds chirp, the donkey brays. The dog barks. Off in the distance, an occasional shotgun blast. The cry of a hawk, the sound of geese passing overhead. Adult conversation or simply the sound of my own footsteps.
Then I climb into the truck to drive home. I listen to the radio, my last few moments of calm. I know what's coming. It's 11 miles from the farm to the house. 11 miles before I must face the 2 little tornadoes that rule my life and my home.
10 minutes later I pull into the driveway. I gather up my things--purse, camera, odds and ends from the errands that I ran at lunchtime. As I open the door of the truck I see the back door the the house open, and a warm yellow square of light appears on the deck. "Hey! Mama's home! Mama's home!" is what I hear from inside. They know they're not supposed to come out, because they don't have any shoes on and it's cold cold cold outside.
I barely make it through the door before these 2 little people have attached themselves to my legs--one on each side.
"Mom! Mom! I only taked one smile today, and it was for talking! Only one! Are you proud of me today?" (Drew)
"Mom! Mama! I stayed with Daddy today! And I taked a nap! And we had fun! And we're making pizza for supper! We're making it!" (Nick)
"Yeah, we're making it! We got a kit!" (Drew)
"A kit! We got a kit at the store! We got it ourself! Dad took us to the store! Come and see!" (Nick)
"I love you, Mom!" (Drew)
"I missed you today, Mama. Best friend. (Nick)
And then they were gone. Running around the kitchen with their cars. Making pizza from a kit with their daddy. Yelling and not using their inside voices.
Sometimes when I'm out at the farm alone with my camera or talking to my friends I get a little jealous. Or maybe jealous isn't the word. I don't even know what the right word would be. I just think what it might be like to not have the constant chaos, the ever present noise and energy and responsibility that comes with parenting 2 small boys.
Then they tell me that they love me and that I'm their best friend, and it doesn't really matter.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Photo Sunday # 17: The Tree, Again
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Saturday, January 20, 2007
Probably in violation of Child Labor Laws
I made my kids fix supper the other night.
No, really, I did.
No, really, I did.
I worked the stove and did the dangerous stuff, but they did all the work.
I am tired of making meals--anything from an elaborate spread to frozen fish sticks and chips--and having them whine about it. So I decided they should cook. Nick prepared the main course and Drew made dessert.
For supper that night we had tuna casserole. Nick knows how to make it thanks to my mom. Thanks, Mom! He remembered all the steps and even worked the can opener all on his own. I simply boiled the noodles for him, and I put it into and took it out of the oven. Other than that it was all him. It wasn't bad. It wasn't stirred very well, leaving some areas of plain noodles and and some areas very tuna-ey, but overall it was an amazing meal considering it was made by a 3 year old.
For dessert we had Cinnamon Streusel Muffins from a box mix. There were picture directions on the box, so I simply had to supervise and, again, put the food in and take it out of the oven. He did a great job, and we all enjoyed the yummy dessert that he made.
And the boys gobbled the food right down and asked for seconds, seeing as they had cooked it and all. No matter that it was the same food I could have made--their little hands made it taste so much better!
So, we've already got a regular pizza night on Monday nights, and we try to eat out at least one weekend night--as a family, if Andy is off, and just the boys and me if he's not. I figure if I can get the boys to cook dinner one night a week, then I'm down to only having to make 4 suppers a week, and I know they'll eat at least their own meals and the pizza. I can handle that. What else do you think they can make? I know they can make sandwiches, and they can heat canned stuff in the microwave. Any suggestions for kid-friendly recipes?
I am tired of making meals--anything from an elaborate spread to frozen fish sticks and chips--and having them whine about it. So I decided they should cook. Nick prepared the main course and Drew made dessert.
For supper that night we had tuna casserole. Nick knows how to make it thanks to my mom. Thanks, Mom! He remembered all the steps and even worked the can opener all on his own. I simply boiled the noodles for him, and I put it into and took it out of the oven. Other than that it was all him. It wasn't bad. It wasn't stirred very well, leaving some areas of plain noodles and and some areas very tuna-ey, but overall it was an amazing meal considering it was made by a 3 year old.
For dessert we had Cinnamon Streusel Muffins from a box mix. There were picture directions on the box, so I simply had to supervise and, again, put the food in and take it out of the oven. He did a great job, and we all enjoyed the yummy dessert that he made.
And the boys gobbled the food right down and asked for seconds, seeing as they had cooked it and all. No matter that it was the same food I could have made--their little hands made it taste so much better!
So, we've already got a regular pizza night on Monday nights, and we try to eat out at least one weekend night--as a family, if Andy is off, and just the boys and me if he's not. I figure if I can get the boys to cook dinner one night a week, then I'm down to only having to make 4 suppers a week, and I know they'll eat at least their own meals and the pizza. I can handle that. What else do you think they can make? I know they can make sandwiches, and they can heat canned stuff in the microwave. Any suggestions for kid-friendly recipes?
Friday, January 19, 2007
Why I was late to work today, The turkey track shirt, and other stuff
This is why I was late to work today:
I can't believe the man driving that car is even alive. It was folded nearly in half. From what I understand (I happened to know some of the police on the scene) he was very drunk. He slammed that car into an embankment at about 65 miles an hour. At least he was alone in his vehicle, and fortunately he only hit an embankment an not another vehicle. He made me 40 minutes late.
When I agreed to let Andy guest post last night, I thought he might write something sweet and sentimental about me. Or at least about the boys. Or perhaps some witty observations about life with kids, or police work. He sat here and typed for nearly an hour--I thought he had written an novel. Imagine my surprise when I pulled up the blog this morning and saw a solitary paragraph containing street slang about drugs. Not exactly the family-friendly type post I was hoping for. *sigh* Just so you know, in real life, Andy is really quite funny. He's quick witted and intelligent. If I let him post again I'll coach him a bit *smile* And I got several inquiries concerning those people that he "visited". He did confiscate their drugs, but did not arrest them because, and this is a direct quote, they didn't have an amount enough for him to waste his time taking them in. I said he was smart. I didn't say I always agreed with him... Actually, where his job is concerned, we disagree on several major issues.
I also had several requests to see the completed turkey track shirt. Well, here it is:
When I agreed to let Andy guest post last night, I thought he might write something sweet and sentimental about me. Or at least about the boys. Or perhaps some witty observations about life with kids, or police work. He sat here and typed for nearly an hour--I thought he had written an novel. Imagine my surprise when I pulled up the blog this morning and saw a solitary paragraph containing street slang about drugs. Not exactly the family-friendly type post I was hoping for. *sigh* Just so you know, in real life, Andy is really quite funny. He's quick witted and intelligent. If I let him post again I'll coach him a bit *smile* And I got several inquiries concerning those people that he "visited". He did confiscate their drugs, but did not arrest them because, and this is a direct quote, they didn't have an amount enough for him to waste his time taking them in. I said he was smart. I didn't say I always agreed with him... Actually, where his job is concerned, we disagree on several major issues.
I also had several requests to see the completed turkey track shirt. Well, here it is:
And, because I feel like I've been neglecting Nicky a little bit on the blog lately, here:
He's cute, isn't he? Go on, you can admit it. He's adorable. Even with food on his face.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Something a little different
OK, photo credit to me, as usual. After this small introductory paragraph, I can take no credit for anything written here tonight. I have a guest blogger tonight. Everyone, meet my husband Andy. If you already know him, just say hi.
I can't really think of anything specific to write about so I will tell you about what I did last night at work. NADA. There was only one call for service and it turned out to be one of the frequent customers that I provide service for accidentally dialing 911. The guy decided to smoke a blunt and call 911 so that he could notify the police that he was going to leave his house. So I went to the house to check things out and as soon as the door was opened a huge cloud of smoke came floating out the door and of course it was accompanied by the ever popular smell of marijuana. So I walked into the house and started questioning. I started with the passed out guy on the couch and then proceeded to talk to the gentleman that called 911. After about 2 questions he decided that didn't call 911 and that I should leave since I didn't have a search warrant. After kindly informing him that I did not require a search warrant since I could smell and see the marijuana I told him what legal options he had. He decided to go to bed. After I got off work I went to get a warrant for burglary and then headed home to grab a nap. After picking up the boys from the sitters Drew and I did some homework and we all had grilled cheese for dinner. Now it is bath time and soon to be movie time but I hope to post more in the future.
I can't really think of anything specific to write about so I will tell you about what I did last night at work. NADA. There was only one call for service and it turned out to be one of the frequent customers that I provide service for accidentally dialing 911. The guy decided to smoke a blunt and call 911 so that he could notify the police that he was going to leave his house. So I went to the house to check things out and as soon as the door was opened a huge cloud of smoke came floating out the door and of course it was accompanied by the ever popular smell of marijuana. So I walked into the house and started questioning. I started with the passed out guy on the couch and then proceeded to talk to the gentleman that called 911. After about 2 questions he decided that didn't call 911 and that I should leave since I didn't have a search warrant. After kindly informing him that I did not require a search warrant since I could smell and see the marijuana I told him what legal options he had. He decided to go to bed. After I got off work I went to get a warrant for burglary and then headed home to grab a nap. After picking up the boys from the sitters Drew and I did some homework and we all had grilled cheese for dinner. Now it is bath time and soon to be movie time but I hope to post more in the future.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Playing Hooky
I'm supposed to be at work right now. I was supposed to be at work all day. Ha ha.
The day started out normally enough. The alarm went off at 5:30, I got up, took a shower, and got the boys off to their respective places for the day. I went to work. Andy went to bed. It was a typical Wednesday.
I got to work, and it was a pretty slow day. Not much going on. It's been pretty slow all week. At about 10:00 I couldn't take it any longer. So, I left. I asked Rachel if she minded, and she said "not at all".
So, I came home just long enough to grab some of my remaining Christmas money and I headed to Clarksville. I hit Memories in Bloom (local scrapbook store), Hobby Lobby, Target, Old Navy, American Eagle Outfitters, Borders, Kohl's, Best Buy, Books-a-Million, Linens-n-Things, and Petsmart, and I had lunch at Chick-fil-A. I really didn't spend much, but it sure was nice to have a day out. I went alone and that was even nicer. No schedule to adhere to, no one else to worry about, no children needing to use the bathroom in every store.
I'm home now, and it's about time pick up the boys. Tonight we need to work on Drew's project for 100 day at school. He has to wear something with 100 of something on it. He's chosen to wear a shirt with 100 turkey tracks on it. Of course--is anyone surprised? So, tonight a turkey is going to walk all over a stamp pad and then all over a long sleeved t-shirt. Don't ask me how that's going to happen unless you really want to know, OK? I just hope Drew's body is big enough to accommodate 100 turkey footprints! And, of course, Nick wants a shirt, too. Not as big of a deal, though, because he doesn't really have to have 100 on his...
The day started out normally enough. The alarm went off at 5:30, I got up, took a shower, and got the boys off to their respective places for the day. I went to work. Andy went to bed. It was a typical Wednesday.
I got to work, and it was a pretty slow day. Not much going on. It's been pretty slow all week. At about 10:00 I couldn't take it any longer. So, I left. I asked Rachel if she minded, and she said "not at all".
So, I came home just long enough to grab some of my remaining Christmas money and I headed to Clarksville. I hit Memories in Bloom (local scrapbook store), Hobby Lobby, Target, Old Navy, American Eagle Outfitters, Borders, Kohl's, Best Buy, Books-a-Million, Linens-n-Things, and Petsmart, and I had lunch at Chick-fil-A. I really didn't spend much, but it sure was nice to have a day out. I went alone and that was even nicer. No schedule to adhere to, no one else to worry about, no children needing to use the bathroom in every store.
I'm home now, and it's about time pick up the boys. Tonight we need to work on Drew's project for 100 day at school. He has to wear something with 100 of something on it. He's chosen to wear a shirt with 100 turkey tracks on it. Of course--is anyone surprised? So, tonight a turkey is going to walk all over a stamp pad and then all over a long sleeved t-shirt. Don't ask me how that's going to happen unless you really want to know, OK? I just hope Drew's body is big enough to accommodate 100 turkey footprints! And, of course, Nick wants a shirt, too. Not as big of a deal, though, because he doesn't really have to have 100 on his...
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Photography on an entirely different level...
My mom got the boys cameras for Christmas. They were very excited to get them, however, the cameras that she got for them didn't work very well. She ordered them out of a catalog, they were camouflage and very cool, but we never could get them to work quite right. So, she returned them, and decided to get the boys the FisherPrice Kid Tough Digital Cameras for them.
OK.
Those were the most popular item on the Christmas toy list this year. The one thing every kid just had to have. Sold out of every store weeks before Christmas, and still not in stock for weeks after.
Finally, this Saturday, we found them on the shelf at Wal-Mart. A quick phone call to Mom to confirm that yes, she wanted me to go ahead and purchase them, and the boys were each the proud owner of his very own digital camera.
Predictably, Drew chose the blue camera and Nick chose the pink camera. This bothers me a little--not that my kids chose these colors, but that they had to. Come on, now. Why couldn't these things come in green and yellow? Or orange and red? Why the stereotypical blue with swirls and pink with flowers? Anyway...
They are in love. Move over, GameBoy Advance. Back up, Diego Rescue Center. The cameras are in the house! They are taking pictures of everything. And, some of the pictures are really nice. Nick is fairly careless with his photo taking, snapping away with abandon and then deleting recklessly when the camera gets full. And it makes him oh so happy. Drew is very careful to line up his shots, and then critiques each picture, sounding so much like me. "Oh, that's a nice one." "That one's a keeper!" "oooh, blurry". And he'll rush to delete any not up to his standards, to make room on the camera for any photo opportunities that might arise.
As soon as the weather clears I've promised them a photo expedition to the farm. I'll share the results with you. Aren't you excited?
OK.
Those were the most popular item on the Christmas toy list this year. The one thing every kid just had to have. Sold out of every store weeks before Christmas, and still not in stock for weeks after.
Finally, this Saturday, we found them on the shelf at Wal-Mart. A quick phone call to Mom to confirm that yes, she wanted me to go ahead and purchase them, and the boys were each the proud owner of his very own digital camera.
Predictably, Drew chose the blue camera and Nick chose the pink camera. This bothers me a little--not that my kids chose these colors, but that they had to. Come on, now. Why couldn't these things come in green and yellow? Or orange and red? Why the stereotypical blue with swirls and pink with flowers? Anyway...
They are in love. Move over, GameBoy Advance. Back up, Diego Rescue Center. The cameras are in the house! They are taking pictures of everything. And, some of the pictures are really nice. Nick is fairly careless with his photo taking, snapping away with abandon and then deleting recklessly when the camera gets full. And it makes him oh so happy. Drew is very careful to line up his shots, and then critiques each picture, sounding so much like me. "Oh, that's a nice one." "That one's a keeper!" "oooh, blurry". And he'll rush to delete any not up to his standards, to make room on the camera for any photo opportunities that might arise.
As soon as the weather clears I've promised them a photo expedition to the farm. I'll share the results with you. Aren't you excited?
Labels: Drew, Nick, Photography
Monday, January 15, 2007
Because you said it was alright
I asked before, and you assured me it was alright to post photos if I didn't feel like chatting. So, I'm taking the easy way out today, and posting more photos.
I do have one little idea to run past you guys, though. I was thinking of photo essay ideas, and I thought it might be neat to do "Country Roads". I could go around the area and get views looking down various roadways, from the 4 lane parkway to dirt tracks. All seasons, all weather. I could compile quite a collection if I kept at it long enough, and perhaps there'd be a market for something like that in the local museum or from the local tourism board. Whaddya think? Comments and further idea expansion more than welcome. Now, view my adorable offspring...
I do have one little idea to run past you guys, though. I was thinking of photo essay ideas, and I thought it might be neat to do "Country Roads". I could go around the area and get views looking down various roadways, from the 4 lane parkway to dirt tracks. All seasons, all weather. I could compile quite a collection if I kept at it long enough, and perhaps there'd be a market for something like that in the local museum or from the local tourism board. Whaddya think? Comments and further idea expansion more than welcome. Now, view my adorable offspring...
OK, on my monitor at home, these pictures look fine. Here at work the photos of Nick have kind of a pinkish cast on the left-hand side where the window light hits his face. How do they look to you?
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Photo Sunday #16: January in Kentucky
My tree, of course. I think I have more photos of this tree than of anything else, except, of course, the boys.
Sunrise on the way to work, 8 or 10 second exposure
A different tree, but if you look you can see my tree in the background there on the right
An old fallen tree. This summer perhaps there will be beetles and mushrooms. I'll be back then.
Labels: Photo Sunday
Saturday, January 13, 2007
How Embarassing
(that's Doug on the webcam)
So, last night after the boys went to bed (and it was pretty early, thank goodness) I decided to watch a movie. I watched Brokeback Mountain on HBO. Yes, I'm probably the only person in the world that hadn't yet seen it, but that's not really the point of my story.
I watched the movie, and just as it was ending I noticed my neighbors (who recently completed construction on a new house) pull into their drive. I've been trying to catch them arriving home for nearly a week now, because I have a housewarming gift for them and their house is still quite difficult to access once they're inside with the garage door closed.
I grabbed the gift and ran outside, hoping to catch them as they were getting the mail. I did, and after I handed over the gift we chatted for awhile. The entire family was present, including the 15 year old son.
Now, I've posted pictures of the house on here before, but if you've never seen it or don't remember what it looks like, there's a large picture window in the living room. Where the big TV is. That I had left on. On HBO. In a darkened room. Any idea where this might be going?
So, I'm chatting to them, and I notice the teenage son keeps glancing up at the house. I look over my shoulder, and I think I might have actually done one of those double takes like they do on TV or in the movies. On my television, big as life, are several naked women. And a naked man. I'm not sure exactly what they were doing, because I didn't watch that long. But wow.
I excused myself rather quickly and went inside to turn it off, but by the time I got in the house they had already driven on. For those of you interested, it was Real Sex, that HBO documentary series. No, I didn't continue watching it--I went on to bed. It was late, and I was tired.
I gotta tell you, though, I had no idea you could see my television that clearly from the road. I guess that people driving past at 55-60 mph really aren't paying attention to what's on my TV. Or are they?
I bet my neighbors--at least the teenager--are looking at the TV the next few times they pull in the drive!
I watched the movie, and just as it was ending I noticed my neighbors (who recently completed construction on a new house) pull into their drive. I've been trying to catch them arriving home for nearly a week now, because I have a housewarming gift for them and their house is still quite difficult to access once they're inside with the garage door closed.
I grabbed the gift and ran outside, hoping to catch them as they were getting the mail. I did, and after I handed over the gift we chatted for awhile. The entire family was present, including the 15 year old son.
Now, I've posted pictures of the house on here before, but if you've never seen it or don't remember what it looks like, there's a large picture window in the living room. Where the big TV is. That I had left on. On HBO. In a darkened room. Any idea where this might be going?
So, I'm chatting to them, and I notice the teenage son keeps glancing up at the house. I look over my shoulder, and I think I might have actually done one of those double takes like they do on TV or in the movies. On my television, big as life, are several naked women. And a naked man. I'm not sure exactly what they were doing, because I didn't watch that long. But wow.
I excused myself rather quickly and went inside to turn it off, but by the time I got in the house they had already driven on. For those of you interested, it was Real Sex, that HBO documentary series. No, I didn't continue watching it--I went on to bed. It was late, and I was tired.
I gotta tell you, though, I had no idea you could see my television that clearly from the road. I guess that people driving past at 55-60 mph really aren't paying attention to what's on my TV. Or are they?
I bet my neighbors--at least the teenager--are looking at the TV the next few times they pull in the drive!
Friday, January 12, 2007
Just keep swimming...
And another week ends. Thank goodness. I don't mean to sound like a whiny, broken record or anything, but wow. I am tired. And crabby. And just... wow.
I was OK until that whole report card thing. And then today Drew was not good at school--he had to take 3 smiles (there are 4) for talking, running, and something else (I'm not really clear on the third one) and he's totally not remorseful at all. Apparently it's my fault he was bad today because I didn't pack his lunch. Whatever.
Oh, and Nick. Nick. He's just a handful this afternoon. Not at all like his normal self. I suspect he didn't have a nap, judging by his wild mood swings and inability to please and incredible hyperactivity. At least I can count on an early bedtime from that one.
I did get my new comforter today that I ordered from Overstock.com--a down comforter and a fancy duvet cover. I am pretty excited about that. Also today I received the strawberry print fabric that I won in an eBay auction that I'm planning to use to make panels for the front of the china hutch in the kitchen. It used to have glass doors that were broken when we moved it, and so it stands open and collects stuff. I'm going to use tension rods and this fabric to make gathered panels to close it off and 1) make it look neater and 2) keep it from collecting so much stuff. Now I just have to do it.
I was OK until that whole report card thing. And then today Drew was not good at school--he had to take 3 smiles (there are 4) for talking, running, and something else (I'm not really clear on the third one) and he's totally not remorseful at all. Apparently it's my fault he was bad today because I didn't pack his lunch. Whatever.
Oh, and Nick. Nick. He's just a handful this afternoon. Not at all like his normal self. I suspect he didn't have a nap, judging by his wild mood swings and inability to please and incredible hyperactivity. At least I can count on an early bedtime from that one.
I did get my new comforter today that I ordered from Overstock.com--a down comforter and a fancy duvet cover. I am pretty excited about that. Also today I received the strawberry print fabric that I won in an eBay auction that I'm planning to use to make panels for the front of the china hutch in the kitchen. It used to have glass doors that were broken when we moved it, and so it stands open and collects stuff. I'm going to use tension rods and this fabric to make gathered panels to close it off and 1) make it look neater and 2) keep it from collecting so much stuff. Now I just have to do it.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Report Card Day
It snuck up on me. It was report card day again. I knew it was coming up, I just wasn't expecting it today.
It was the same as last time. The exact same. Drew is smart. If he got grades, he'd have all A's, or maybe a B here and there. But on the behavior side, he had way more NI's (that's Needs Improvement) than he had S's (that's Satisfactory). As a matter of fact, he didn't change any at all. Not one single category. He's nice to the other kids. He's compassionate and polite. He just doesn't listen, or even attempt to follow directions. The last time there were not comments. This time there were. They read: Drew continues to lack the ability to focus. He has difficulty completing the simplest of tasks on time. We will continue to work with him individually and in groups and hope to see some improvement this grading period.
I know I should not be sad, or disappointed, or angry. I know I should be proud that he is so smart. I know he is younger than the other kids, some of them by nearly a year. I know he's not the only one. I know I know I know. I know. But still. It's not that easy.
I didn't know this parenting gig was going to make me feel so crummy.
But, on the bright side, Nick drew me a big picture of a sunshine today. It was really great--he did a nice job. He even colored mostly inside the lines. I asked him why he colored it for me (usually he draws things for his dad) and he said "because it's pretty, like you". That was nice.
It was the same as last time. The exact same. Drew is smart. If he got grades, he'd have all A's, or maybe a B here and there. But on the behavior side, he had way more NI's (that's Needs Improvement) than he had S's (that's Satisfactory). As a matter of fact, he didn't change any at all. Not one single category. He's nice to the other kids. He's compassionate and polite. He just doesn't listen, or even attempt to follow directions. The last time there were not comments. This time there were. They read: Drew continues to lack the ability to focus. He has difficulty completing the simplest of tasks on time. We will continue to work with him individually and in groups and hope to see some improvement this grading period.
I know I should not be sad, or disappointed, or angry. I know I should be proud that he is so smart. I know he is younger than the other kids, some of them by nearly a year. I know he's not the only one. I know I know I know. I know. But still. It's not that easy.
I didn't know this parenting gig was going to make me feel so crummy.
But, on the bright side, Nick drew me a big picture of a sunshine today. It was really great--he did a nice job. He even colored mostly inside the lines. I asked him why he colored it for me (usually he draws things for his dad) and he said "because it's pretty, like you". That was nice.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Wednesday Randomness
At the end of last year I wrote a post entitled Generosity. It touched on charitable giving, but was mostly a rant about a co-worker and her selfish attitude. Today I read this post over at Diary of a Playgroup Dropout, and it reminded me again that the time for giving is not just during the holiday season. In the comments section there, I shared something that we do, and I'll share it with you, too. And perhaps you can do it, too. Or perhaps you can do something else. Visit Beth, and join in. She has a whole list of ideas for you. Everyone benefits when we do what we can. And let me know what you do.
Andy and the other officers try to keep stuffed animals in the trunks of the cruisers. They're to give to children that have been involved in traffic accidents or other traumatic events--like being removed from their homes or witnessing violent crimes. Sometimes it's all they have to hold on to in the ambulance or emergency room. If they wind up in a shelter sometimes it's all they have, period. We started by donating all of the good quality stuffed toys that the boys had and didn't need, but I usually purchase 5-10 a month just to keep up. Sometimes my parents buy some, too. The next time you clean out the stuffed toy collection in your house (and what parent doesn't have a million stuffed animals in their home) please consider donating them to a local police department or womens shelter in your area, rather than giving them to Goodwill where they're re-sold for $.50 or just discarded. Womens shelters will also gladly take donations of clothing, toys, food, and furniture (in good condition) and your donations are tax-deductible.
That picture up at the top? The boys got out the hot wheels last night. Actually, they only got out about 1/3 of them, but that was all they needed to make a line that went from one side of the living room to the other. They had the best time. They lined them up, then rearranged them, and lined them up again. They sorted them by type, and by color. Believe it or not, they sorted them by age at one point. Who would have thought they knew when they got each of those things? There are more pics on Flickr--I think if you click on the picture it'll take you there and you can see the others. They were showing me which to take pictures of, which were the coolest, etc... It was so much fun.
I bought a neat thing the other day. Actually, got 4. I got Webcam for Dummies at Wal-Mart for $15.88. Combine that with Yahoo! Messenger, and my Mom, brothers, and I can all see each other and talk to each other on the computer. It's very cool. Well, Mom really isn't involved yet, because she hasn't gotten hers all hooked up yet, but last night my brothers and I were on, and the boys were talking to their uncles and aunt and to Aiva, and it was so neat. I won't tell you how long it took us to get it all figured out, so you won't know just how dorky we all really are... At any rate, Grandmama and Grandad Sanderson, if you read this, take yourself to the Wal-Mart and purchase Webcam for Dummies, and you'll probably need a microphone, too (we did, it was another $9). Then you can see and talk to the boys via computer anytime. Let us know when you have it done.
Scrapbooking tonight. Finally. I haven't been in weeks. And I have an actual project in mind. Yipee!
Labels: Randomness
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Poindexter, with a twist
When I was a little girl, my mom used to tell me a story about a little boy named Poindexter. It wasn't a story that was published anywhere. She made it up. It was a great story. I'm not going to tell you the whole story (perhaps she could do that--there's a blog post for you, mom!) but I'll share the basic premise with you. Poindexter loved chocolate chip cookies. I mean, he loved them. And you know, sometimes, if you eat too much of one thing, you just might turn into that thing. Oh yeah. He did.
At any rate, my children have a thing for pizza. Especially Drew. Do you think it's possible for a child to actually morph into a slice of pepperoni pizza? Because if it's possible, it's going to happen at my house. And I'd like to be around to witness it.
Saturday we attended a birthday party. Drew ate 3 pieces of pizza. He requested it again for supper, but I refused. Sunday after church there was pizza--Drew ate 2 1/2 pieces. He requested it again for supper, but I refused. Monday night around here is usually pizza night, and so I served up a frozen DiGiorno pizza. Drew ate half. What I didn't know at that time was that even though I had packed him a lunch, it had been pizza in the school cafeteria so he had eaten that instead. So, in 3 days, Drew ate pizza 4 times. And when I asked what the boys might like for supper tonight, Drew requested pizza. Too bad--I fixed smoked sausage and noodles Parmesan with cornbread.
Come on. I like pizza as much as the next person. Maybe even more than the next person. And I'll be the first to admit that I don't vary my menu as much as alot of you. But even I'm tired of pizza, and I didn't eat it all those times.
Anyone want to place bets on when the transformation will begin to take place?
At any rate, my children have a thing for pizza. Especially Drew. Do you think it's possible for a child to actually morph into a slice of pepperoni pizza? Because if it's possible, it's going to happen at my house. And I'd like to be around to witness it.
Saturday we attended a birthday party. Drew ate 3 pieces of pizza. He requested it again for supper, but I refused. Sunday after church there was pizza--Drew ate 2 1/2 pieces. He requested it again for supper, but I refused. Monday night around here is usually pizza night, and so I served up a frozen DiGiorno pizza. Drew ate half. What I didn't know at that time was that even though I had packed him a lunch, it had been pizza in the school cafeteria so he had eaten that instead. So, in 3 days, Drew ate pizza 4 times. And when I asked what the boys might like for supper tonight, Drew requested pizza. Too bad--I fixed smoked sausage and noodles Parmesan with cornbread.
Come on. I like pizza as much as the next person. Maybe even more than the next person. And I'll be the first to admit that I don't vary my menu as much as alot of you. But even I'm tired of pizza, and I didn't eat it all those times.
Anyone want to place bets on when the transformation will begin to take place?
Monday, January 08, 2007
The Fairytale Story of How I Met My Husband...Or Not
Tonight I'm answering one of the questions that Debra posted for me when I asked for blog topics. Specifically, question number five, because it's easy, and it's funny.
Question number five was: How did you and Andy meet? Or, tell us about your first date? How about when you realized he was 'the one'?
Why is the answer to this question easy, or funny? Because I really, truly have absolutely no clue how I met him. Well, I know how I met him--we went to school together. We had the same major, although we didn't have any classes together. But I don't recall ever actually meeting him--he was always just there. And I have no recollection of our actual first date. I remember dates, but I have no idea which was our first.
At some point we ended up meeting, and at some point I saw him at a few after-hours social functions (read: parties). What you need to know now is that I was always the sober, designated driver person, and he was always the stumbling around happy person with more than one drink in his hand. We weren't at these parties together--we just ran into each other there. And then we just were going out. Nothing serious, just dating. What I didn't know at that time was that he had a girlfriend, of 4 years, in another city. When I found out, of course, that was the end of that. Then school ended, and I went home, and it was no more.
That following summer I went back to that town to visit a friend, and I ran into Andy while I was there. He had broken up with his girlfriend, and we went out. Shortly after that I accepted a job in the city I live in now, which was only an hour away from the city he lived in then. I won't say that he wasn't a factor in that decision. He wasn't the entire reason, by a long shot, but he figured in.
So, I had an apartment, and a job. Andy and I saw each other on the weekends, and it gradually went from every few weekends to every weekend to every weekend definitely plus a weekday here and there if we could swing it. I started my job in September of 1996, he proposed in October of 1998, and we were married in June of 1999.
And, like I said, to this day I can't tell you when we met, where we met, where we went on our first date, or when I knew he was the one. But I guess at some point all that must have happened, or we wouldn't be here now, right? I think perhaps he knows where we went on our first date, but he's not here to ask. I'll try to get back to you on that one.
Question number five was: How did you and Andy meet? Or, tell us about your first date? How about when you realized he was 'the one'?
Why is the answer to this question easy, or funny? Because I really, truly have absolutely no clue how I met him. Well, I know how I met him--we went to school together. We had the same major, although we didn't have any classes together. But I don't recall ever actually meeting him--he was always just there. And I have no recollection of our actual first date. I remember dates, but I have no idea which was our first.
At some point we ended up meeting, and at some point I saw him at a few after-hours social functions (read: parties). What you need to know now is that I was always the sober, designated driver person, and he was always the stumbling around happy person with more than one drink in his hand. We weren't at these parties together--we just ran into each other there. And then we just were going out. Nothing serious, just dating. What I didn't know at that time was that he had a girlfriend, of 4 years, in another city. When I found out, of course, that was the end of that. Then school ended, and I went home, and it was no more.
That following summer I went back to that town to visit a friend, and I ran into Andy while I was there. He had broken up with his girlfriend, and we went out. Shortly after that I accepted a job in the city I live in now, which was only an hour away from the city he lived in then. I won't say that he wasn't a factor in that decision. He wasn't the entire reason, by a long shot, but he figured in.
So, I had an apartment, and a job. Andy and I saw each other on the weekends, and it gradually went from every few weekends to every weekend to every weekend definitely plus a weekday here and there if we could swing it. I started my job in September of 1996, he proposed in October of 1998, and we were married in June of 1999.
And, like I said, to this day I can't tell you when we met, where we met, where we went on our first date, or when I knew he was the one. But I guess at some point all that must have happened, or we wouldn't be here now, right? I think perhaps he knows where we went on our first date, but he's not here to ask. I'll try to get back to you on that one.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Photo Sunday #15: Trying to Forget About the Rain
Photos from the archives this week...the weather has been gray and rainy and uncooperative all week long. Oh, yeah, and I've been sick, too. It's difficult to photograph anything on days like that. Heck, it's difficult to want to do anything on days like that! So, enjoy some sunshine:
Labels: Photo Sunday
Saturday, January 06, 2007
That's the way it goes, right?
I send out a call for help, and you guys come through. You're great, really! And I suspect you're not finished, because not all of my normal visitors have been by yet. I may have more blog ideas on the way. Keep them coming! I've gotten several good ideas, especially from my blogging buddy Debra over at Reflecting who wrote me this post with six whole blog topic ideas just for me. Isn't she sweet? I really like hearing from you guys. It makes me feel loved. A recurring theme seems to be that you all want to see more photos, which really surprises me. It really does! I thought I was being lazy and boring each and every time I posted just photos. That means that 1. either my photos are better than I'm giving myself credit for or 2. my writing is even more boring than I thought. *grin* At any rate, I've written all the ideas down in the little notebook I keep just for this purpose (yes, I have a blog post idea notebook. so I'm a big nerd. so what?) and I promise to get to them all at one point or another.But today, today I already have an idea. I thought I was going to need one from you guys today, but another topic just presented itself to me all on it's own. Actually, a few did, and I'm having to choose one, or maybe two. That's the way it goes, right?
So, I've been noticing a bit of a mildewy smell lately in our bedroom. Off and on. I haven't been able to figure out the source, but opening a window seems to help. More recently it's been getting stronger. Yesterday it occurred to me that the access to the plumbing for the shower and faucets is in the closet in our bedroom. I opened the closet (Andy's, and I rarely open it) and discover that the mildewy smell is way stronger in there. So, tonight's project while he's home is to take all the stuff out of his closet and take the access panel out and see if we've got a leak in there. The wall doesn't feel damp, so that's a good sign, I guess. When we lived in that run-down little rental house when we first got married, I was sick all winter with sinus issues/infections, bronchitis, and headaches. Soon before we moved we discovered mold under the house. I was better within a month of moving out of that house. I wonder if there is mold or mildew in this wall from a leak that we don't know about that's making me sick again? I don't remember when my headaches/sinus stuff started up again, but I wonder if it would coincide with when I started smelling that mildewy smell? Hmmm... Of course, I sure don't want to find a big leak in our wall, because that would be a mess. But it would explain alot, wouldn't it?
We went to a birthday party today for the 3 year old son of a co-worker. I just have to tell you guys how proud I am of my boys--with the notable exception of the birthday boy, who was the picture of politeness, my children were by far the most well-mannered and best-behaved children at the party, and possibly at the restaurant (it was at Pirates Pizza, a Chuck E. Cheese type place). They made me look good. I actually got compliments on their behavior. Of course, they returned to their normal state once they got home, but when it counted they behaved.
edited to add: I just finished looking in the closet access...no leak or mold or mildew, thank goodness. I did, however, discover the source of the smell. Remember my friend, the possum, that was living under the house back this summer? Well, I never did catch him and eventually gave up. Apparently it's very warm under the tub. And he's been smushing his way up into that little space. Ick. It was all full of possum hair, and other... stuff. yeah. So I cleaned it all out, and sprayed it with some bleach solution, and purchased a live trap at TSC. No more fooling around! He's outta here!
Friday, January 05, 2007
Let's hear it
Ok, here's the thing. I'm running out of things to say.
No, really.
Ok, not really.
I could sign in here every evening and give you a rundown of my day. That would be easy. I could tell you what I'm fixing for supper, or how cute my kids are. I can always post photos.
But I feel like that must be boring to read. Because, frankly, it gets boring to write. Occasionally I come up with something I'd like to say. I do my best to avoid controversial topics, like politics and religion, and that leaves out several options. But mostly I just feel like I'm in a rut.
Today, here and now, I'm opening up the floor (blog? forum? arena?) for suggestions. Anything you guys would like to know? Ask me questions. Suggest some blog topics. Suggest some photo essay topics--I've been attempting to expand my horizons. Obviously, if you ask me ridiculously personal questions I'm not going to answer them here, although I might just answer them in e-mail--who knows? Perhaps you guys can help me break out of my rut and go into new directions.
And hey--I know blogger has been being difficult with the commenting thing. If it's too much trouble to comment, and you really have something to say, please feel free to e-mail me at any time. My e-mail address is in my profile.
Alright, go. Get on it. I need an idea before tomorrow evening!
No, really.
Ok, not really.
I could sign in here every evening and give you a rundown of my day. That would be easy. I could tell you what I'm fixing for supper, or how cute my kids are. I can always post photos.
But I feel like that must be boring to read. Because, frankly, it gets boring to write. Occasionally I come up with something I'd like to say. I do my best to avoid controversial topics, like politics and religion, and that leaves out several options. But mostly I just feel like I'm in a rut.
Today, here and now, I'm opening up the floor (blog? forum? arena?) for suggestions. Anything you guys would like to know? Ask me questions. Suggest some blog topics. Suggest some photo essay topics--I've been attempting to expand my horizons. Obviously, if you ask me ridiculously personal questions I'm not going to answer them here, although I might just answer them in e-mail--who knows? Perhaps you guys can help me break out of my rut and go into new directions.
And hey--I know blogger has been being difficult with the commenting thing. If it's too much trouble to comment, and you really have something to say, please feel free to e-mail me at any time. My e-mail address is in my profile.
Alright, go. Get on it. I need an idea before tomorrow evening!
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Diagnosis: Not quite dead
Well, the doctor says I have the one of the most impressive sinus infections he's ever seen. And an ear infection. The coughing, which is getting worse and not better, he thinks is "reactionary". That's the fancy doctor way of saying that I don't have bronchitis or pneumonia, I'm just coughing due to the drainage from my sinuses. Or, possibly, pertussis. Yeah. Did you know people still got Whooping Cough? I didn't. He said that my cough sounds like the characteristic barking cough, but if that's what it is there's nothing they can do about it so there's no point in testing for it. So, I got cough medicine for daytime and cough medicine for nighttime. Antibiotics and nasal spray. I'm set. Think I'll feel better by tomorrow? Because I'm really tired of coughing.
I'm probably jinxing myself here, but the past few nights the boys have been behaving exceptionally well. I think after all the excitement of the holidays wore off and they remembered how to be brothers and friends and began to settle back into a routine that everything just fell into place. I sure hope it lasts. I've really been enjoying being in the house. They'll play quietly alongside each other or together while I prepare supper or do household chores and then after we eat we can read stories or play games or, sometimes, they can continue playing on their own while I do my own thing. It's such a nice change from the fighting and picking at each other that seemed to go on and on and on all of the month of December. Obviously there are some brotherly squabbles, but not nearly as many as there were.
Chicken noodle soup for supper tonight, just so my mom will quit bugging me about it. Yum.
I'm probably jinxing myself here, but the past few nights the boys have been behaving exceptionally well. I think after all the excitement of the holidays wore off and they remembered how to be brothers and friends and began to settle back into a routine that everything just fell into place. I sure hope it lasts. I've really been enjoying being in the house. They'll play quietly alongside each other or together while I prepare supper or do household chores and then after we eat we can read stories or play games or, sometimes, they can continue playing on their own while I do my own thing. It's such a nice change from the fighting and picking at each other that seemed to go on and on and on all of the month of December. Obviously there are some brotherly squabbles, but not nearly as many as there were.
Chicken noodle soup for supper tonight, just so my mom will quit bugging me about it. Yum.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Wednesday
The calendar says it's Wednesday. OK. I'm pretty confused after all this holiday stuff, so I'll just have to believe it.
Drew started back to school today after his first ever Christmas break. He was so ready to go back--he's actually been asking to go back since the day after Christmas. And so, we were ready for him to go back. He was missing his friends, and the brunt of his bad temper was being taken out on his little brother. Nick was equally glad for things to be back to normal--as sad as he was when school began back in August, he's really gotten used to being in the spotlight at the babysitters house. He wasn't really enjoying having his brother around to steal all the attention everyday.
I've been battling a persistent cough since well before Christmas. It's gotten better and worse but has never completely gone away, and occasionally is accompanied by some slight sinus pressure/drainage. In the past few days it's gotten markedly worse, so I broke down today and called the Dr. after much hassling from a few of my co-workers and one episode of coughing that left me gasping for breath and wiping the tears from my eyes. I have an appointment for tomorrow morning at 11:15. I suspect it's bronchitis, and that I will need antibiotics. *sigh* You must know that I'm feeling pretty rotten to actually take myself to the Dr.
Um, yeah...that's all I've got. Pretty boring, I know. Perhaps tomorrow night I'll have more exciting stuff for you. Until then, keep smiling...
Drew started back to school today after his first ever Christmas break. He was so ready to go back--he's actually been asking to go back since the day after Christmas. And so, we were ready for him to go back. He was missing his friends, and the brunt of his bad temper was being taken out on his little brother. Nick was equally glad for things to be back to normal--as sad as he was when school began back in August, he's really gotten used to being in the spotlight at the babysitters house. He wasn't really enjoying having his brother around to steal all the attention everyday.
I've been battling a persistent cough since well before Christmas. It's gotten better and worse but has never completely gone away, and occasionally is accompanied by some slight sinus pressure/drainage. In the past few days it's gotten markedly worse, so I broke down today and called the Dr. after much hassling from a few of my co-workers and one episode of coughing that left me gasping for breath and wiping the tears from my eyes. I have an appointment for tomorrow morning at 11:15. I suspect it's bronchitis, and that I will need antibiotics. *sigh* You must know that I'm feeling pretty rotten to actually take myself to the Dr.
Um, yeah...that's all I've got. Pretty boring, I know. Perhaps tomorrow night I'll have more exciting stuff for you. Until then, keep smiling...
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
I just can't keep a straight face
I had an entire blog post planned out in my head. I really did. It was witty, fun, and entertaining. You would have loved it, I'm sure.
Then Drew ran into the kitchen and said "Hey Mom, you know what? I can float like a butterfly and sting like a beaver!" and Nick said "Yeah, Drew stings just like a beaver!".
And I thought, well, how can I be any funnier or more entertaining than that?
Can any of you sting like beavers? Well, can you?
I didn't think so.
Monday, January 01, 2007
Happy New Year
Well, it's 2007. We all made it. I even managed to stay up until midnight last night, despite the fact that Andy was at work and the kids were asleep. And no one called me to wish me a happy new year! No one! I was really disappointed! Take note, my family. I was sure you were all going to call me, especially those of you with big news (my brother is getting married, ya'll!), because it's only 11:00 here at midnight there and I felt sure you'd know I was up. *sigh*
So, it's New Year's Day. I have the pork roast in the crock pot and the evil, evil can of sauerkraut sitting on the counter just waiting to stink up the house. Plans for the day include driving out to the farm to dispose of the Christmas tree (which has been riding around in the back of my truck since Thursday) and putting all of the decorations back up into the attic.
I suppose I'm supposed to list all of my New Year's Resolutions here today, too. Well, I gotta tell you, I'm not making any (except for that whole be nicer to my kids deal. but I already started that). It's not really my thing. I'm more of a make-decisions-when-they-need-to-be-made kind of girl. The new year does mean one good thing, though--it's almost tax time. And while that may not be good news for some, at this point in our lives it means a nice little refund check. We could use a nice little refund check right about now.
edited to add: the tree is still in the truck. we drove out to the farm, and the water is way high in the creek--too high for me to feel comfy driving across, even in 4 wheel drive. and there's no place on this side of the creek to toss it. so i guess i'll drive it around for a few more days...
So, it's New Year's Day. I have the pork roast in the crock pot and the evil, evil can of sauerkraut sitting on the counter just waiting to stink up the house. Plans for the day include driving out to the farm to dispose of the Christmas tree (which has been riding around in the back of my truck since Thursday) and putting all of the decorations back up into the attic.
I suppose I'm supposed to list all of my New Year's Resolutions here today, too. Well, I gotta tell you, I'm not making any (except for that whole be nicer to my kids deal. but I already started that). It's not really my thing. I'm more of a make-decisions-when-they-need-to-be-made kind of girl. The new year does mean one good thing, though--it's almost tax time. And while that may not be good news for some, at this point in our lives it means a nice little refund check. We could use a nice little refund check right about now.
edited to add: the tree is still in the truck. we drove out to the farm, and the water is way high in the creek--too high for me to feel comfy driving across, even in 4 wheel drive. and there's no place on this side of the creek to toss it. so i guess i'll drive it around for a few more days...