Saturday, December 31, 2016

We've reached the end of another year

Here we are...New Year's Eve yet again.  Generally speaking, 2016 was a good year.  It began as the year from you-know-where with Robert, but we are praying that was the low point and we've turned the corner.  We will take each good day that we can get.  It's truly hard to believe that we are beginning the last full year that all of my children will be home with me.  This time next year we will be staring at the year in which Robert will graduate.  I would say that this year was the fastest yet, but honestly at this point they all just fly by at lightning speed.  I am so grateful for all of the blessings of this year, and look forward to each day of 2017!

So much fun

Last evening, Thomas had a great time spending the night at a youth group lock-in.  We are so grateful for this group at a church in town.  It isn't at the one we attend, but there are several other Lutheran youth who have joined as well.  It's a great opportunity for Thomas to be involved with such a positive group.

Andrew and I had a blast as well.  Our friends who moved away years ago are in town, and originally we thought we would only get to see them tonight, and we are absolutely looking forward to that.  However, our friends asked if the three "original" couples of our group could get together last night since there will be lots of others at their house tonight.  They were willing to drive here since we had to transport kids from swim practice.  We had dinner and then they came here to play a game.  We laughed so hard we were crying.  We roared with laughter so much that my voice is hoarse today.  You just can't find friendships like that everyday.  It doesn't matter how long since we've seen each other, we always pick right up and laugh again.  It was so much fun, and there is nothing like laughter to bring peace to the soul!

Getting home was an adventure

It seems as though I rarely write much in the days after Christmas.  Generally we are traveling (as we did this year), and generally we are spending time as a family having fun.  Swim practices have made the family fun part a little more challenging, but we are still enjoying life together.  We haven't been able to do anything "big", but we did make the trip to visit my in-laws.  We were only there for about 40 hours but it was a nice visit.  The trip home however, was a bit of an adventure.  I had fallen asleep shortly after leaving, but woke up when we stopped for gas about 75 minutes into the trip.  As Andrew was cleaning the back window, I noticed smoke coming from under the hood and smelled an absolutely horrible smell.  Andrew raised the hood and we noticed something that seemed to be leaking.  He checked the oil which was dangerously low, so we filled it, and then decided since things weren't running hot, the rpm's were in the normal range and no "check engine" light was on, we'd try to venture further.  We stopped again about a half hour later and while there was still some smoke and smell, the oil was still fine and the van was running fine.  We drove another 90 minutes, and this time when we stopped there was no smoke at all, and only a slight smell.  We were feeling pretty good about life and knew we were about 90 minutes from home...almost there!  We were cruising right along until about 30 miles away when the "check engine" light came on.  We pulled into a parking lot, and sure enough the smell and smoke had returned.  The oil was still fine, so we decided to try to make it home.  The van began sputtering as we continued, and I really didn't think we were going to make it.  As it turns out though, it was fine out of town where it was able to maintain a more constant speed.  We got home, unloaded, and drove straight to the mechanic.  They were able to diagnose the problem and fortunately it was a relatively inexpensive hose assembly that needed replaced.  We are still concerned as to why the oil was so low, but we'll keep an eye on that.  Very grateful that we've purchased that third vehicle so we haven't had to be down to one vehicle since the van is still in the shop.  That drive home was much more of an adventure that I had been wanting!

Sunday, December 25, 2016

A really nice Christmas day

Today was really a very nice Christmas day.  My sister was unusually pleasant and we all got along very nicely.  Unfortunately, my uncle wasn't feeling well, and since he is currently battling leukemia it's important that he conserve his energy and keep his weakened immune system focused on fighting his current cold and not pick up anything else.  We all enjoyed the day with baby Ava who is 16 months old and my sister's Old English Sheepdog Rockne was so very well behaved.  In fact, Andrew took her for a walk a couple of times and we all just really enjoyed the day.

I'm battling a migraine and we need to head east tomorrow to my in-laws, so it's time for bed.  I'm so grateful to get to go to bed feeling so blessed!

Merry Christmas 2016!

We are soon headed out to my sister's house.  We will exchange gifts with my sister, mother, & grandmother, and then some aunts, uncles, cousins (& possibly family friends) will join us for a meal, and then some others will join for a visit even later.  I'm looking forward to this and visiting.  I'm just hoping everyone in the family can check their attitudes at the door...we aren't always good at that.

We had a nice morning.  I enjoyed that Robert was actually the first one awake.  He was able to visit with his girlfriend and her family last evening and then he came home and helped Andrew wrap gifts for me after we did the gifts from out-of-town.  I really wanted a trash can, and Andrew was annoyed I wanted something so practical.  He decided to throw me off the trail by wrapping it in light up garland and bringing in the extension cord last night to plug it in.  I was surprised and thrilled this morning.  The kids also enjoyed their gifts, and I was so pleased that they enjoyed even the little things because that is mostly what they received this year.  I love how Thomas was still so surprised and shocked that Santa knew exactly what he wanted.  Andrew fried up some mush and made diced potatoes, and mostly we just hung out.

I'm so grateful for this day, and for the time we are together!

Saturday, December 24, 2016

I would love to get that phone call

My dad was a last minute shopper.  The 23rd & 24th were his favorite times to shop, and that is why my sister and I often received gift cards.  My mom did the shopping from "them", but Dad wanted things that were just from him.  In fact, the year he died my mom still went out and purchased a few gift cards for us just so he could be a part of our Christmas one last time.

This style of shopping continued with the kids.  He wanted to find something that would be "fun" and that the kids would really want.  This prompted last minute phone calls and sometimes I would struggle to think of something just right at the last minute...let alone if he could actually find it.  The last year he was alive he called as we were waiting for church to begin.  That means it was mid-afternoon on Christmas Eve...definitely waiting until the last minute.  I remember being marginally annoyed that he was calling at that point as I was in church.  And yet, I sure would've loved to get that phone call today.  I'm so grateful for the memories, and so grateful for the blessings in life.

Today is Christmas Eve

Our Christmas Eve is a little different this year, but I'm okay with that.  Robert wants to spend a couple of hours this evening with his girlfriend and her family, and I don't blame him for that.  I will however, be grateful when he can drive before too long.  We are attending 4:00 church and then he'll go to her house for a while.  We will do some of our traditional things afterwards, and I'm grateful that he still wants to be a part of it.  Right now I'm spending the afternoon working on getting us packed for our trip to in-laws next week (which means laundry...see earlier post!) and enjoying some football on TV.  The temps are in the upper 40's and tomorrow in the 50's, so it doesn't feel like Christmas, but we are enjoying being together!

Swim season and laundry

So far, the kids have had two swim meets.  Thursday showed a great deal of improvement, particularly for Robert.  They are enjoying the season, although they are very, very tired.

I am particularly astounded by the amount of laundry swim season is bringing into our lives.  The kids practice twice a day, so that right there is four swim towels.  In addition, three times a week they work out, so there are those clothes as well, on top of all the normal clothes that are bulkier this time of year.  It feels like the dirty laundry is literally exploding around me!

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

Break is officially beginning!

I am so happy to report that break is officially beginning!  Andrew is still at work, but as of about three minutes ago all three kids are home.  Yippeeeeeeeeee!  Unfortunately, there is still swim tonight and it includes the dryland workout as well (weightlifting).  I think everyone would prefer to just hang out here at the house, but they need to do this.

We are well aware it is probably going to be a crazy couple of weeks and the days are going to fly by, but we are looking forward to this break!

Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Looks like three weeks off work

It looks as though I'm going to get about three weeks off work.  I'm not going to lie, I'm pretty excited about that!  I'll still have my church job, and it's going to be very, very busy for the next five-six weeks, but I can work those hours around my schedule for the most part.  And at no point, do I need to be there by 7AM which I need to do when I am subbing at the high school.  The kids have two weeks off, and with two partial weeks, it looks as though I'll have three weeks off.  I am so really looking forward to the down time together with our family.

In some ways, things are even slowing down as of this evening.  Both Thomas and Robert will have "hang out days" at school tomorrow, although Catherine will still have two finals.  Of course there is still swim practice this evening, but generally speaking, we are heading into the down time of the holiday break!

Monday, December 19, 2016

New-to-us vehicle

Yesterday, after months of wondering if it was actually going to happen, we brought home the vehicle we are purchasing from my sister.  I had gone up last week to give her the check and she gave me the title, and that way I could get the plates and be totally legal driving home yesterday.  My sister had thought yesterday would be a good day because we'd be there anyway, and since Robert had to get back for work we didn't all have to leave at the same time.  It was kind of a messy ride home with the wet (and sometimes slippery) weather, but we made it.  I am really enjoying having the vehicle, and I'm so grateful this worked out!

Sunday, December 18, 2016

The Christmas celebrations have begun

Today we celebrated the first of our many Christmases.  My paternal grandmother has always made sure we get together the Sunday before Christmas.  There is still a cousin and a daughter who don't attend, but the rest of the family made a point to be there.  It was especially exciting with the addition of Bella, Grandma's first great-great-granddaughter who arrived on February 24.  We took pictures this year, and even took an entire group photo.  The kids loved opening their presents, and we had a fun afternoon.

The only downside is that the kids still have three days of school.  It's a little hard to motivate when we've begun our Christmas, but it's especially important for Catherine who has finals this week and doesn't really know what she's in for.  She did spend some time studying, but I'm not sure it is enough...I guess we'll see.

Regardless, it was such a fun afternoon.  I'm so grateful to have my grandmother, who in three weeks will be turning 86, in my life.  I'm so grateful my family makes the effort to get together, and that there were five generations of family members present in that room today!

Thursday, December 15, 2016

Winter arrived with a bang

We are still technically about a week from the official beginning of winter.  It has already arrived here though...no question!  I wrote Tuesday about the unexpected snow fall that had arrived that morning.  When the day was done, we had received nearly four inches of snow.  It was one of the most gorgeous snows I've ever seen.  The kids' swim meet ended up being canceled for the evening.  The main roads were fine, but the side roads were a mess.  I wasn't sad that we ended up having an evening at home, although there was still swim practice.

Yesterday morning I drove north to run a quick errand and have breakfast with my mom.  I was out the door just after 7:00 in the morning so it was still pretty much dark.  There was a full moon though, and with the fallen snow I really can't put into words how absolutely gorgeous it is.  It definitely helped to get into the Christmas spirit.  I can't put into words how absolutely peaceful it was.

We knew we'd be waking up this morning to wind chills below zero.  Most schools to the north went on a delay last night, and even a few down around us.  By this morning, we work up to wind chill in the -9 range, and although nearly all of the neighboring schools were delayed, not us!  At 5:40 Robert and I were waiting for his bus.  It was brutal out!  We had all really, really hoped there would be a delay, but no such luck.

This is going to pass quickly though.  After freezing rain arrives tomorrow evening (my least favorite form of all winter precipitation) we will be in the upper 40's to lower 50's on Saturday.  That's a recipe for sickness!

Ten days until Christmas

We are down to ten days until Christmas.  Where did the year go?  Only ten days????  Tuesday evening I pointed out on December 14, 2015 I had every single gift purchased, wrapped, and under the tree.  At that point Robert looked and noticed there was not one present under the tree...not a single one.  Technically, I had one wrapped, but literally just one.  In fact, I didn't even have everything purchased.  I still had a significant amount to purchase for Catherine, and I hate it when I don't have things ready to go for the kids.

I completely acknowledge this is life now that I am working.  Even though I was off Tuesday and Wednesday, I had kids with doctor appointments and I also had to make a trip to my hometown.  That right there is four hours out of my day.  There is just a lot going on in life.

Yesterday though, while out and about to accomplish this week's grocery list, I got several things purchased for Catherine.  I'm glad to have that handled, and I'm really ready to start wrapping.  I'm working today and tomorrow, but next week I plan to be home (other than several hours I have to put in at my church job).  The high school is on exam schedule, so Catherine will be ready to come home each day before lunch.  I'm going to allow myself to be home next week, and I'm looking forward to really being ready for the holidays!

Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Winter wonderland

It is absolutely gorgeous outside right now.  It got really cold really fast around here, and now it's really, really pretty.  We were expected to get some snow this morning, but not in time to get us a snow day.  It didn't begin until around 8ish, and it's really come down since then.  We were forecasted to get about half an inch, but when I just went out to measure it was nearly 1.5 inches of snow!  It's definitely not going to get warm enough to melt anytime soon either.  Thursday's high is going to be in the teens with nearly dangerous wind chills in the overnight.  I'm so glad winter has arrived, although a little more of a transition in the temps might have been nice.  In the meantime, I'm enjoying the gorgeous scenery of the snow!

Monday, December 12, 2016

I love our church

This post could be alternately titled: "You never know how one decision will affect so many other things in life."

I can't help but think back to 4-1/2 years ago when Robert was finishing up his sixth grade year.  He decided he wanted to switch schools and come to school with his dad.  Because of that, we learned how fabulous the schools really were here and while we weren't unhappy with our old district, this district was far more amazing.  Once we found out how fabulous, we decided all the kids needed to be attending here and we moved.

Because we moved, it was an opportunity to find a church for our family.  My husband was willing to look outside the Catholic denomination so that we could all feel comfortable and attend church together.  We were so amazingly blessed to find our Lutheran church which has been such a fabulous fit for our family.

Because we found this church, two great things happened.  First, I was baptized and am able to participate as a full member.  That means so very much to me.  Secondly, I was able to have my part-time job there that works absolutely fabulously for us as a family.  It provides just a little bit of extra income, and even though it is year-round, it doesn't get in the way of our care-free summers.  It's been such a blessing.

Yesterday was one of the most fun things about attending our church.  It was the Christmas program put on by the youth of the church.  It is primarily for the younger members, but the include anyone up through high school who wishes to participate.  Thomas was the acolyte, and Catherine was an usher.  Robert did a reading and was also an usher.  Andrew was in charge of assisting with the ushers and greeters, and I was helping out with costumes.  I love that we know so many of the families, and it just truly fills my heart with joy that we are where we are supposed to be!

Too much sadness for this time of year

To me, December is just a month where sad things shouldn't happen.  The holidays are too magical and special, and only come around once a year.  Reality tells us otherwise though.

The friend of a friend has been in hospice for breast cancer.  We found out Thanksgiving weekend as they were on their way out of state for one last visit.  They were planning to head back up this weekend, but Julie passed away Saturday.  She is younger than me, and leaves behind three very young boys.  It just isn't supposed to happen like that.

My best friend's sister-in-law lost both of her parents in a car accident Saturday morning.  We were hanging out with Steph & Pat Saturday afternoon and they didn't know yet.  Again, things like that just aren't supposed to happen this time of year.

There was also a horrible tragedy up near my home town.  A middle school student and her grandmother were killed on icy roads in a head-on collision that was witnessed by the girl's father (and grandmother's son).  I can't even imagine experiencing that horror.

Christmas in is 13 days.  I'm so grateful for the health and well-being of my family, and that we are able to make such wonderful memories each year.

Saturday, December 10, 2016

I had forgotten how exhausting it can be...but so much fun!

Yesterday I was in first grade.  On a Friday in December.  Where we decorate gingerbread houses in the morning and taped the principal to the wall in the afternoon as a fundraising reward.  It was an absolutely crazy day.  I had forgotten about physically and mentally exhausting it can be to be with the little ones.  There really is very little down time and there is lots of hands on time.  I had just really forgotten how involved it can be.

At the same time, I had forgotten how much fun it can be.  The little ones have such interesting perspectives on life and they are often very comical.  The days go by so fast and it's almost as though it's over shortly after it begins.

I'm so incredibly grateful for a job that allows me to have the flexibility to be around when my family needs me, that allows me to earn a little extra money, and that has so much variety and fun!

Family fun Friday

Last evening was one of the few Friday evenings where the kids didn't have swim practice.  Originally Robert's girlfriend was going to come over, but he made some choices that made him lose that privilege.  Fortunately it is just typical teen stuff, but not okay none-the-less.  Andrew met a friend for dinner, but was still home fairly early.  I had worked in first grade (I'll make a separate post about that) and was pretty darn tired.  After Andrew arrived home, we were all sitting squeezed into the family room.  It was almost 8:00 and I was seriously considering how early I could go to bed and not be considered pathetic, when I realized that American Ninja Warrior was on.  I had caught a few moments when Robert was watching a week earlier, and was telling Andrew all about it.  He was kind of teasing me about how I seemed to enjoy it, and we all sat to watch it.  I loved that for the next two hours our family sat together, ate some snacks together and all hung out in the same room.  So many times, the kids will want to watch something different in another room, and I don't really blame them.  But I absolutely love the fact that last evening we all hung out as a family together even doing something so simple.

Thursday, December 8, 2016

Eight years of blogging

I've officially reached eight years of blogging.  So many memories are preserved here and I'm so grateful for that.  I truly enjoy re-reading some of the old memories, especially here at the holidays.  It makes me kind of miss the quieter and less chaotic days, but I'm grateful for the new memories we make as well.  Life is full of so many blessings!

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

She has her braces

Today Catherine had her braces put on.  Strangely enough, she has actually been excited this.  I think it mostly boils down to the fact that she is excited to get the process started so that it can be finished and she can have great teeth....at least we certainly hope so!  So far she has only been a little uncomfortable, but not too terribly much so.  Robert thinks tomorrow will be worse...I guess we'll see!

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

It's the crazy time of the year!

Our days are crazy, and I know that is pretty much true for everyone this time of year.  Being an accountant, year-end is crazy and I expect that.  Even though the church doesn't generally require many hours, there are still certain things that need to be prepared for the end of the year.  Fortunately, I'm able to generally work around the rest of our life, but certain things need to happen at the office.

It's also the time of year for concerts, parties, and just general holiday activities.  Our big band fundraiser wrapped up this weekend, and I had things that had to be compiled by last evening.  The Sunday School program is this coming weekend, and I am on the religious ed committee.  Not a lot to do, but still time commitments.  And of course, all of the things that go along with the holidays in our lives...along with parenting three teens!

I'm trying very hard to remember to be thankful and grateful and to feel at peace in each moment...but some moments are better than others!

Working next door

Today I am in the classroom next door to Andrew.  To be honest, I am really enjoying it.  For one thing, I got to have Catherine in class this morning.  Sadly, she is in an absolutely rotten class, and I couldn't wait for it to end.  He is testing today, so I am grading papers for him.  I'm enjoying the day.

At the same time, I don't think we could do this every day.  I think too much togetherness is not always a good thing.  I am grateful though, for so many different opportunities!

Friday, December 2, 2016

First weekend in December

It's Friday of the first weekend in December.  After today, only 13 more days of school until the end of the semester and Christmas break.  I am looking forward to that, but I also want to try to remember to enjoy the entire month.  This evening, Robert & Catherine have swim work-out, then Catherine is playing in the pep band at the high school basketball game.  Thomas is returning to our former town to visit a friend overnight so I'm driving him there.  Tomorrow, other than picking up Thomas there is nothing on our calendar until we take Robert to his girlfriend's house.  They offered to bring him home later than we were willing to pick him up so we'll be home early.  Sunday we have a bunch of stuff at church, Robert has to work and has a driving lesson, and Andrew has a meeting.  Doesn't seem very festive, but I'm looking forward to knowing that a break is coming up!

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Pros and cons of different subbing

When I was a substitute teacher before we moved, I always worked with the younger kids.  I absolutely loved Pre-k through 3rd grade, and I didn't mind fourth grade either.  By fifth grade the attitudes had kicked in, and they were full-blown by sixth grade.  I was only at the middle school twice and high school once, and that was exactly the way I loved it.  The younger the better as far as I was concerned.

Things have changed though.  Now my kids are in high school and middle school, and my husband is at the high school as well.  I still won't touch middle school with a ten-foot pole, but I really enjoy being at the high school.  I enjoy knowing the kids when they walk in the door, and it's certainly easy work.  Our high school is full of amazingly respectful kids and I've been lucky in that I've had very few problems.  Most of the kids are fabulously respectful and so many are self-driven.  It makes a day full of reading for me for the most part since they handle things on their own without being disruptive.

Sometimes I miss the little ones though.  I miss really having an opportunity to instruct and interact with the kids.  I enjoy being able to read and not have to really think for hours on end, but it can actually get a little boring.  At the same time, after being part of a third-grade classroom yesterday, I'm reminded how physically exhausting the younger ones can be.  I'll be in a first-grade classroom next Friday, and I'm sure I'll really remember then!  Ultimately, I'm just grateful for the opportunities to earn some extra money, regardless of which form they take!

I wish it was a week ago

I can't help but wish it was a week ago.  Exactly one week ago right now, we would be in the car on Thanksgiving morning driving from my in-laws in PA to my aunt & uncle's house.  We would get to spend the day with family, and we'd have several relaxing days in front of us.  Right now, those relaxing days feel so long ago.  I didn't take them for granted though when they occurred, because I know how rare and special they are.  So grateful for those days, even if I don't feel they last long enough!

December yet again

Last evening I was sitting in the living room with my youngest.  He suddenly looked at his watch and said, "I can't believe it is already November 30."  It's always a sign that they are getting older when they start to recognize and understand the speedy passage of time.

And yet, here we are again at another December.  Only 24 days until Christmas, and in 31 days we will have to write "2017" on our checks.  I know I say this all the time, but I'm not at all certain how we got here this quickly.  I can't help but think of how "The days are long but the years are short"...oh so true!  We are tired people in our house and things are crazy busy, but we are so going to miss then.  And the time of missing this is not that far away!

Monday, November 28, 2016

Christmas decorating

Our house is mostly decorated for Christmas.  We needed almost entirely new sets of lights this year, and Andrew also decided to put lights up outside.  He outlined the top of the front of the house, and it looks nice.  In fact, I especially enjoyed it this morning as I was waiting for the bus with Robert.  We had the trees all put together and lights on by Saturday evening, and then spent the evening decorating with the ornaments.  The kids all looked forward to it, and all of them seem to realize that the years of this being how we do things each year are limited.  One of the things we most enjoyed this year when hanging the ornaments was remembering those no longer with us.  So many of those ornaments hold precious memories, and everything seemed to recognize that this year.

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Really not ready for this weekend to end

As we cruise later in to Sunday afternoon, I am just not ready for this weekend to end.  I hate to sound complaining as this weekend has been an amazing blessing, but I'm just not ready for it to end.  That is due in large part to being well aware of how grueling this week, and the one after, and the one after that, are going to be.  Robert got off work early and we were home by 8PM Friday evening, and I remember ecstatically exclaiming to my husband that if we wanted, we didn't have to leave the house until we took Robert to work at noon today.  Forty uncommitted hours are extremely rare in this house, and I'm so very grateful for them.

This week my kids have six hours of swim practice, two hours of dryland conditioning, at least two doctor appointments, and we don't know Robert's work schedule yet.  Andrew has parent conferences one evening this week, and I have to work at school on Wednesday and Thursday.  I have an all day volunteer commitment on Friday, and also need to get some time in at the church.

Four weeks from today is Christmas.  It will be here before I know it, and I'm again, trying to be present in each moment!

One of the greatest games ever

Yesterday was the annual OSU/Michigan rivalry football game.  This was a BIG one with the match-up between #2 (us) and #3 (TTUN...that team up north for those of you not from here).  Robert of course could not have been less interested in the games, but the other two sat and watched most of it with us.  What a game it was!  Double overtime before OSU finally prevailed.  I'll be honest, there was lots of yelling and jumping up and down on my part!  Thomas even announced, "this is the best rivalry game ever".  It was such a great game, and yes, even when I thought there was a chance the Buckeyes would lose I still felt that way!  I am so grateful I was able to share it with my family!

Thursday, November 24, 2016

A really fabulous Thanksgiving

This has been such a fabulous Thanksgiving full of so many blessings.  We made our quick trip to visit Andrew's parents and had a fabulous meal with them last evening.  Andrew's brother can't really leave the house anymore so he didn't come over, but Andrew took the kids to visit after we ate.  It was such a truly nice visit with his parents and I didn't fail to recognize our blessings.  We were up at 6 this morning and on the road by 8:20.  I know it is hard on his mom when we leave.

We made it to my aunt & uncle's house by 12:30.  I am so, so grateful that my aunt is still willing to host the entire family.  I was able to visit with my cousins and enjoy their kids.  My grandmother was there as well, and I'm just so grateful for the opportunity to share such an amazing meal with my family.  I'm also very grateful that we still have three full days ahead of us to watch football and begin ringing in the Christmas season.  Life is more blessed than I can put into words!

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Being present in the moments

I want to make sure that I am being present in the moments over these holidays.  In 2012, I took so many pictures and recorded so many memories.  I didn't know it then, but it ended up being Dad's last Christmas with us.  It was also the last holiday season we spent in our old house and town.  I'm so grateful for the pictures and memories from those holidays.

I find myself feeling the same way about these holidays.  I'm sure some of it is the age of my kids.  Nothing in life is guaranteed, but Robert is a junior and after this holiday season there is only one more where I can be confidant he'll get to be with us for the celebrations.  I'll be honest, that is often front and center in my thought process, and I want to soak up the special memories as long as I can.

I know the age of my in-laws is also a factor.  My father-in-law is 81, and my mother-in-law is 77.  We'd all like to think they'll be around for another 20+ years, but we are realistic people.  And of course my brother-in-law continues to deteriorate.  During the summer of 2015, I remember telling everyone that I was sure he'd be around for those holidays, but doubted he'd be there to celebrate two years later.  That would be next year.  

That's why I'm making sure the camera goes with us as we celebrate these holidays.  I'm grateful for each of the memories, and I'm grateful for the peace this recognition brings.

We need this break

Thanksgiving break begins this evening.  Our family needs a few days off, although I am completely realistic that it isn't going to be the quiet downtime that we might really want.  We need these days though, and at this point even sleeping in until 6AM is an extra hour of sleep for Robert and me.  I am grateful that my children have opportunities, but I wouldn't mind if the opportunities required a little less time commitment.  We are just tired people.  I know if my Dad were still alive he would point it out each time he saw us.  I remember once he even told me my email sounded tired.  He always worried about me, just like I worry about my kids.

We are heading to my in-laws this evening and it will be late when we get there.  We will be there all day tomorrow, and then will be on the road by 8AM Thursday morning to get back to my aunt & uncle's house.  I always look forward to spending the day with my mom's family.  On Friday Robert's girlfriend will be over for several hours, and then Robert has to work.  I'm not entirely certain what is happening Saturday because we have so many different options, but one thing will be Robert's driving lesson.  Sunday will bring more work for Robert and another driving lesson.  Definitely plenty going on!  And of course, there needs to be plenty of decorating happening this weekend!

Monday, November 21, 2016

He makes me not want to move

I am currently sitting on the couch in our family room, and I need to get some things accomplished.  Specifically, I need to head out the door to the church office and get things done there.  However, our dear cat Lincoln has other thoughts.  About 15 minutes ago, he came up on the couch, curled up right beside me and is nestled in the crook of my leg sound asleep.  It is so very sweet!  It really makes me not want to get up off the couch, let alone head out the door!

No art either

If you scroll down just below this post, you will learn that Thomas isn't going to be able to play basketball this year.  We just learned this weekend that the art classes he has been taking each semester aren't going to be offered next semester either!  This poor kid!  He was disappointed at the beginning of the school year that he wasn't able to take art in school (we don't really understand why, but it's what happened), and now it just seems as though nothing is working out for him.  It certainly is not the end of the world, but I feel badly for my little guy.  We will definitely be looking into other options!

Thursday, November 17, 2016

No basketball this year

We received the official word earlier in the week.  The rec league doesn't have enough to form teams in Thomas's age group, and there will be no basketball for him this year.  Originally we had hoped they would do what they did with Catherine two years ago and put him on a grades 5/6 team, but it didn't work out that way.  When I told Thomas the other night, we could see how much it hurt him all over again.  He is such an emotional kid, and so much like me in that regard.  Our excitement and enthusiasm is high, and therefore the depths of things are pretty low as well.  It breaks my heart to see my kids hurting, but I know they have to learn to cope with disappointment...that is life.  I'm going to miss watching basketball this year, but Thomas is planning to do some running with an after school club.  I'm glad he wants to stay busy!

In for my husband

Today, I get to sub in Andrew's class.  To be honest, I'd been looking forward to this for weeks, and I absolutely love it!  I know many of the kids, and after we got through first period, they have all been pretty well behaved.  I'll be honest, the students at this high school amaze me almost every time I'm in the building.  For the most part, they are an absolutely fabulous group of kids.  In some ways, it makes me frustrated with my own who don't seem to be able to get their acts together nearly as well.  I know though, that many other parents would probably feel the same way.  At school, we generally only see the good stuff...it's the parents who deal with everything else!

I'm so grateful for these opportunities to add to our family income!

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Pleurisy

I neglected to mention the latest medical issue in our house...Catherine has pleurisy.  About five weeks ago she came home from a chilly band competition and mentioned that her friends had talked her into leaving her jacket on the bus.  Sure enough, she developed quite a cold.  Nothing that made her miss school, but enough to not feel great.  Her cough went away, then returned.  It's never been deep, but when she does cough, it's pretty strong and continuous.  Early last week, she mentioned that her side hurt right around the rib cage.  She came home from swim practice last Monday nearly in tears from the pain.  I suspected pleurisy, and after taking her to the doctor last Wednesday, it was confirmed.  He put her on an antibiotic, and although she does still have the cough, it has gotten better.  She feels today that the pain is better as well, although she tried to return to the pool Monday, and that went so poorly that she now is not allowed back until next Monday.  Of course being the anxious parent I am, I become terrified that something is seriously wrong, but hopefully it was just an upper respiratory infection, and all will be well soon!

Monday, November 14, 2016

Three years without my dad

It's been three years now since Dad passed away.  To say that it doesn't seem real is so very true on most days...even after all this time.  At the same time, I'm grateful for how much less it hurts  As my mom stated when Dad died, echoing the thoughts of her own mother when my grandfather died, this is just our "new normal."  I'm so grateful for the memories, for the man he was, and ultimately for the fact that he is no longer suffering.

Sunday, November 13, 2016

Lost Christmas present

About a week ago, a Christmas gift I had ordered online for Robert arrived in the mail.  Catherine saw it and asked what it was.  I explained it was something I had ordered online and then left the room to put it out of sight.  The problem of course is that it is not only out of sight...it is out of my memory.  I can't find it anywhere.  I have absolutely no idea where I put it.  I've spent this week looking for it, and I was convinced it would show up yesterday when I cleaned out the closet where I put the gifts.  No such luck though.  I'm not even sure I know where else to look at this point!

Friday, November 11, 2016

An interesting start to my morning

This morning, before 7AM, was absolutely crazy.  I should've known it was a bad sign when I received a text at 6AM.  It was one of our local teacher friends.  She had read a facebook post about a teacher and was very concerned about the dark tone.  One might wonder why she would text me.  This happens to be one of Andrew's colleagues and is also someone I have worked with in my volunteer position.  I agreed it was concerning and we were discussing how to proceed, using Andrew's experience as a union rep as our guide.  At the same time, my friend with whom I work at my church job is also texting me because she can't get the donation statements to print correctly and is in a panic wanting to know when I can get to the church to help her.  I also learned that Thomas hadn't been taking care of the cat boxes all week because he "didn't want to", and when I am informed him very calmly but firmly that he could do the job next week again, he began to throw a temper tantrum.  He is entirely too old for that!  I get to work this morning and run into Robert's girlfriend.  She mentions that Robert sent her a text while he was taking a test yesterday.  This of course means that he has installed a texting app on his school laptop and this probably explains why his grades suddenly started tanking again.  I am a little sick to my stomach.  While I know it's just one little thing, I can't help but feel it will start leading to bigger poor decisions again...that tends to be his pattern.

I am so grateful that we are going to get to go out with friends this evening and again tomorrow evening.  It's been a rather grueling week, and we need some time to laugh and be distracted!

Very emotional ceremony

I am working again today at the high school.  I hadn't realized there was going to be an assembly for Veteran's Day until I got here.  I was a little intimidated, as I didn't know exactly what my role might be during such an event in terms of monitoring students, but I just followed the crowd and went with the flow.  The students filed into the gymnasium and I eventually made my way to the far side and up the steps.  The ceremony began with the principal reminding the students that although we were in the gym, it was a serious ceremony and not a sporting event.  The colors were presented by the county sheriff's office and I was so impressed by how silent the students were.  That was followed by the pledge of allegiance and the National Anthem, both so very well done.  After that some students read their winning essays, and then the veteran's were introduced.  The very first veteran was a 94-year-old WWII vet.  He stood, and the other veterans and students all stood as well in an ovation.  I was completely moved to tears.  The principal then recognized all of the other veterans, followed by current students who have already enlisted.  One of the enlistees is the brother of Robert's girlfriend, and I couldn't help but think about my own son and his plan to join the Navy.  In just another year that could be him being recognized, and tears filled my eyes again.  The program ended with a student singing "Proud to be an American", and even a few students became emotional.  I was so impressed with the students, and so grateful that I got to experience that today.  It was truly a blessing.

Sunday, November 6, 2016

Marching band season has ended

Marching band always feels like the season that is never going to end...ever.  It began so early in July, and yesterday was finally the end of the season.  Catherine really enjoyed her season, although she struggled with the marching skills.  Yesterday was an all day band competition, and that officially ends the marching portion of the season.  There are so many good things that happen in band, and I'm grateful that Catherine enjoys it.  At the same time, I'm not sad that it has come to and end!

We really needed it

Last evening Thomas admitted he was drained and went to bed at his normal school bedtime.  Catherine was sent to bed even a little earlier than her school bedtime because she had such a long week, and by last evening some of her choices weren't the best.  She'd also had a very long day at a marching band competition, and just needed some sleep.  Robert worked until 9, then came home and ate a late dinner.  As soon as he was finished, he announced he was going to bed...before 10:00!  I was a little astounded, but it had been a long week for him as well, and he'd been up early to run in a local 5k race.  Andrew and I were a little astounded that it was that early and ALL of our children were in bed.  I decided to take advantage and go to bed around 11:00 myself.

And of course, last night was when everyone gained an extra hour.  Our family put that extra hour to good use by sleeping.  Today is remembrance Sunday at our church, and I had told Andrew during the week that I wasn't going.  I don't want to go to church and cry through it, which is exactly what happened last year.  So we all got to sleep in...and everyone did!  In fact  Thomas & Catherine slept nearly 12 hours, Robert slept over 12 hours, Andrew slept over 9 hours and I slept over 10 hours.  There is no question this household needed some sleep, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to get it!

Saturday, November 5, 2016

Just as awful as we thought it would be

Thomas has been home about 25 minutes from basketball tryouts.  It's just as awful as we thought it would be.  His heart is absolutely broken about the results, and of course as parents, our hearts break right along with his.  This is one of the toughest parts of parenting, and Andrew and I can't put into words how much we wish we could take away the pain.  I'm looking forward to his big sister getting home from her band competition so she can give him a hug.

Friday, November 4, 2016

A very happy memory

Nine years ago today is one of my most favorite memories.  My dad had just bought his cottage and we took the kids up so we could all see it for the very first time.  We had a great time visiting, and that was the beginning of so many fabulously special memories.  Being the first Sunday of November, it was also the first day of the end of Daylight Savings Time.  The kid couldn't wait to tumble into bed that evening, and everyone was in bed well before 8:00.  I'll be honest, I enjoyed the early bedtime for the kids, and it came at the end of a day that is such another fabulous memory.  I am so incredibly grateful for all of the memories we were able to share with my Dad at his cottage!

Too funny

This evening we had another somewhat crazy evening, but we were all (except for Andrew who is out with a friend) home by 8:30.  We hadn't been able to watch It's a Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown when it had been on before.  We have it on DVD and I decided that this would be the evening the kids and I would sit down and watch it.  We even had some snacks and all settled in.

The first comment that amused me came from Catherine.  Just a couple of minutes in she suddenly proclaimed, "Wait!  Where are all the parents?  Who's keeping an eye on the kids?"  I love that she is old enough to have that perspective.

The most comical though, clearly came from Thomas.  It was the scene when the Peanuts gang was explaining to Sally about the concept of Trick-or-Treating.  She thought it sounded too good to be true.  She even asked, "Are you sure it is legal?"  Thomas announced, "She must be worried about her political future."  Oh goodness!  The perspective of that one is always comical!

A working Friday

Today is a working Friday.  I'm looking forward to this being the end of the week.  Things are just continuing to be unbelievable with the kids' schedules...and they aren't even involved in nearly as much stuff as some kids!  I don't know how other parents work two full-time jobs and make this all happen!

It's definitely an adjustment in our house.  I think Andrew forgets how much I handle being home all day, because it just gets handled.  He doesn't even have to think about it.  I've been a little frustrated this week as I worked every day except yesterday, still had dinner on the table between running kids, and Andrew just doesn't seem to realize I'm still handling things on my own.  We'll get through the adjustment though, and it is what makes me so very grateful for school breaks!

Looking forward to a bit of sleeping in for the weekend!

Thursday, November 3, 2016

I'm not looking forward to what is going to happen

This weekend is tryouts for the middle school basketball team.  Thomas is not going to make the team.  We have absolutely no doubt about that.  Last year in his rec league he was the worst player...in the entire league.  However, Thomas wants to tryout and we are not going to be the people who tell him he can't.  We have to let him face the disappointment that is about to happen...and that is really, really hard.  It's also part of life and I know it is part of my job as a parent.  Part of my job is to teach them to cope with disappointment, but it sure isn't the part of my job that I like.  I know there are going to be tears, and I strongly suspect I'll be crying right along with my little guy.  I'm ready for this particular event to be over.

Back as a working mom

I am off today, and I'm very grateful!  I've worked every day this week.  Not all day, mind you, but still every day.  I'm keeping my job at the church while returning to the world of being a sub.  I really enjoy being a sub and I really enjoy my job at church, but I had forgotten a bit about how crazy things can be when I'm not available all day to work on laundry, dishes, etc.  We've also had a band concert and cross country awards in the evening this week, and Andrew has his football awards tonight.  Tomorrow is another band performance and I work again, but I know that families everywhere deal with this every day.  I'm so grateful that I have two jobs that I really enjoy, that allow me to still be home with my kiddos...so very grateful!

Mild mornings

The last two days we have tied record high temperatures...upper 70's in November!  It's been a little ridiculous again, and definitely not my favorite weather.  It's not awful, but I am NOT turning on the a/c in November!  The cold front is coming through though, and there is nothing about the 60's in the extended forecast.  I've enjoyed not turning on the heat yet, but I am ready for those cooler temps.

The one thing that has been REALLY nice though, is the mornings.  Robert and I walk outside at 5:40 in the morning to wait for his bus.  He stands in the drive way and I sit on the porch, usually with my cup of coffee.  I haven't had to worry about bundling up at all.  In fact this morning, I was in shorts and bare feet.  While I am generally looking forward to the cooler temps, those five minutes I'll be shivering in the morning is the one downside.  I can deal with five minutes though for an overall fabulous day!

Monday, October 31, 2016

Back to the classroom tomorrow

I am very excited that I get to be back in the classroom tomorrow.  I'm especially grateful it is only 1/2 day...it's a great way to give it a try.  I'll be at the high school, and it's for a computer technology class.  It's definitely going to be different then what I've done in the past.  Wednesday I have a half day in a 5th grade classroom, and then Friday I'm back at the high school all day in an Ag class.  I'm really excited about these opportunities, and I'm so very grateful for the extra money!

Where did October go?

I really can't get over how quickly October has flown by.  It really seems as though the month just started, and yet tomorrow is November.  It seems so hard to believe.

The weather is very un-November like though.  We are going to be in the upper 70's, and possibly even lower 80's in the middle of this week.  I am so not looking forward to that.  I appreciate that we aren't having to turn on the heat, but I don't really want to have to turn on the a/c either!

This week also brings the end of marching band, and for that I am grateful.  In addition to my time commitment, the drama has been ridiculous the last couple of weeks.  Friday though, is the beginning of swim practice...so never a dull moment!

Sunday, October 30, 2016

A really great day of sports TV viewing

Yesterday was Saturday, which is of course, a great day of the week!  Add in our easy schedule for the day, and the TV, and it was almost a perfect day!  I LOVE college football.  I enjoy the NFL, but I absolutely love college football.  I was able to get many things done around the house early, and during the noon game.  Michigan played Michigan State.  Last year's game was so dramatic, and with a resurgent Michigan I was looking forward to watching the game.  Wasn't really much of a game though, so I got some more stuff done.  The 3:30 slate brought Notre Dame playing Miami at the same time Ohio State played Northwestern.  They both ended up being much closer games than I had hoped they would be, and we did a lot of flipping back and forth.  That brought us to the Cubs/Indians World Series Game 4 last evening.  The Indians were pretty much in control the entire evening.  Rarely is there ever such a fabulous sports day on TV, and even more rarely do I actually get to watch it!

Saturday, October 29, 2016

A wonderful Saturday at home

This is going to go down as one of my favorite days.  I know as I get older I'm becoming more and more of a "homebody".  I remember being a teen and not understanding how my Dad could want to be home so much.  Now, I completely get it.  Nothing brings me greater happiness than an evening at home with my entire family.  Even if we aren't really doing anything, this is where I love to be.  And after 1:00 today, none of us had anywhere to be.  Thomas had art class and we were home from that at 10:30 this morning.  Andrew worked as manager for the football game this morning, then he ran to the grocery and was home by 1:00.  I had put together two crock pots of potato soup, and we were all home and in.  The only thing that could've made the day better was if it was about 10 degrees cooler.  The temps today were in the upper 70's and I would've loved a fire in the fireplace.  As it was, the windows are open.  Regardless, I know it is going to be a very long time before we are able to have another day like today, and I'm very grateful for it!

She's doing great!

I am so happy to report that Catherine is doing great recovering from her oral surgery and having eight teeth removed.  She had a rough go of it first, and particularly hated that her lips felt fuzzy.  Once that was under control, she has been marvelous!  She only had some ibuprofen once yesterday, although we did give her some pain meds to make sure she got through the night.  This morning when she woke up she was uncomfortable and much more swollen.  I gave her one dose of ibuprofen again, we applied some ice, and she's been good every since.  In fact, we've told her that she REALLY needs to allow herself to stay down and rest.  I am so impressed with her toughness, and I'm so grateful for how well she is doing!

Thursday, October 27, 2016

I even enjoy the dreary days in October

I honestly don't think I am more in love with any season than I am with fall.  Andrew took a personal day today, and as we were driving back from an appointment we had, I was noticing the leaves.  It was an overcast, dreary day, although it never did much more than sprinkle rain.  I made the comment to Andrew that I even enjoy the dreary days in the fall.  They are so cozy.  I'm so grateful to be a midwest girl in the fall!

Teeth extraction

We would appreciate any good thoughts that could come our way.  Tomorrow, my sweet Catherine is having not one, not two, but EIGHT teeth extracted.  Four of them are wisdom teeth, and four others need to come out as well.  My sweet girl doesn't really understand how she is going to feel this weekend.  She is missing not only a football marching performance tomorrow evening, but a band contest on Saturday as well.  She mentioned to me that she knew she wouldn't be able to play her clarinet on Saturday, but could she march?  Oh God love her!  Nope.  Not going to happen.  I mentioned that we aren't even sure that she'll be able to go back to school on Monday.  In fact, I didn't tell her this but I suspect that she will not.  I am dreading this weekend, although on the upside, it takes some things off our calendar and we can have a semi-quiet weekend.

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

October baseball in the Midwest

This World Series is honestly the most fun I've ever had watching a baseball game that didn't involved my beloved Reds.  The long cursed Cubs are playing the often maligned Indians.  I've heard a lot of fans say that if the team they were rooting against were playing any other team they'd be rooting for them.  Our best friends in our former town are an absolutely split house.  She was born and raised in the Cleveland area, he is a die-hard (and sometimes obnoxious) Cubs fan.  They have four kids that are basically split 2/2.  Our house is split with Andrew and Robert for the Cubs, Thomas and myself for the Indians, and Catherine doesn't really care.  I decided on the Indians because I'm not going to root against Ohio, and also because our Cubs fan friend can be so obnoxious!  I would prefer Midwest baseball in October be played in Cincinnati, but since that isn't going to happen, it's fun to watch these two teams play!

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

I really love October

I truly, truly love the month of October.  I think it is such a gorgeous month.  It's certainly been warmer than normal this year, although since this weekend it has been absolutely fabulous.  I've found such a great deal of peace in driving around looking at the scenery.  Even though we are only about 30 miles southwest of our former town, there's more wooded areas here and it is just so beautiful.  I'm so very grateful for this time of year!

Baking sales

Even though I'm not a baker myself, I truly love seeing the sales on baking items.  It must mean that the holidays are nearly upon us!  While there are those who feel Halloween is the beginning of the holiday season, I am not among them.  Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year, and I love the week or so that leads up to it...because I know what's coming!  We aren't entirely certain what our plans will be for the year, but we are looking forward to family.  And all of this can't be too far away, because the grocery had lots of baking sales this week!

Friday, October 21, 2016

Sick hubby

Andrew is home sick today.  He's been feeling icky for about 24 hours, and since football is officially over (as of last evening) he decided to stay home today.  We've actually been looking forward to these days because I would be able to be his sub.

Not so fast though!  Today is one of the days that my volunteer job for our band requires me to be in the school the entire day. UGH!!!  So ironic!  Knowing my husband, this might very well be the only day all year that he has an unexpected sick day  I would love to be able to be him on my very first day back in the classroom just to get my feet wet and get acclimated again, but that just isn't an option today.

Ironically, my good friend who is an elementary teacher also sent me a text this morning asking if I could go in and be her this afternoon.  Nope, still can't!  I actually also have to go do my church job after I'm done with my volunteer responsibilities so I just can't today.  I would love to, and hope that the assignments start kicking in sooner rather than later.  I'm scheduled to be in on a day that Andrew has a field trip in a month, but hopefully I'll have a opportunity before that.  I'm ready to get back at it!

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

So excited to be getting back into the classroom

I am officially in the system to be a substitute teacher in our district.  I am so excited!  I am looking forward to be getting back into the classroom, and I'm excited about a little extra income.  I wasn't sure this was something that I was ready for, but after attending an orientation session today, I know for certainty that I am!  I'm looking forward to being around the kids and I'm grateful that I know a few of them, especially at the high school.   I know there will be changes again here at home, but I also know that I don't intend to do it quite the way I did it before.  While we could still use the extra money, I'm not going to accept a job at the expense of what we need to be doing here at home and our family's schedule.  Overall though, I'm very excited!

Tuesday, October 18, 2016

When will Fall arrive?

It seems so hard to believe that it is past the mid-point of October, and I am still sitting in my house in shorts and t-shirts with the windows open!  By the weekend, the highs are going to be in the 50's...I can't wait for that to arrive!  The leaves are changing and it is absolutely gorgeous around here.  It's so peaceful and I'm grateful for these days, but I'll be just a bit happier when the cooler temps arrive!

Saturday, October 15, 2016

Some evenings all together

Monday evening, Catherine wasn't feeling well.  She had a deep cough and a cold, and I just didn't feel that she needed to be at band practice.  Not only would she be out and about in the chilly air, but she would be up later than I would prefer.  We decided it wouldn't hurt her to stay home.  Normally Andrew would have a football game on Wednesday, but a few weeks ago it had been moved to Thursday.  That meant that our family had two evenings together this week!  We actually were all in the same place last evening as well, but somehow all of us doing different things at a football game doesn't exactly count!  Regardless, I loved those two evenings together, and I think the rest of the family did as well.  While these evenings have been rather rare for the last two months, I'm grateful that our family appreciates them when they occur!

Cross country league meet

This morning was the league meet for the boys' cross country season.  For Thomas, it was the final meet.  He set a new PR of 23:19.  Overall, the middle school boys won the league trophy.  It made my heart smile to see how pleased Thomas was to hold onto the trophy and feel as though he is part of that team.  I'm so grateful for how the boys, all of whom are clearly significantly more athletic than our little guy, accept him as part of the team.

Robert ran 20:18, his best time of the season...of all three races he has finished.  Because of injury to others runners, he will still be able to participate in district competition next weekend.  We aren't sure if we are going to be able to be there, but we will worry about that when the time comes along.  The high school team came in third overall, and some friends' son place in the top ten so that was very exciting.

To be honest, there is almost nothing, especially in these politically charged days, that can reaffirm my faith in humanity like these cross country experiences!

Sunday, October 9, 2016

Homecoming isn't what it used to be

I am really a little bit astonished at how Homecoming is not at all what it used to be.  I went to Homecoming two out of my four high school years.  Both years I purchased dresses (one of which was considered my birthday present from my grandmother) that I could also wear the next morning at church.  They were just simply nice dresses.  Not so anymore!  Now the expectation is a cocktail dress.  And don't even get me started on how unbelievably short some of the dresses are.  I mean, my goodness!  And then there are the pictures.  For our kids two weeks ago, we just stood in the front yard, in front of a tree, and took some pictures.  However, both of the "other" sets of parents then took the kids and took them to sites around town to take pics.  And apparently, this is the thing to do.  In our former town, some of the families drove into the city to take some pictures at certain fountains or museums.  Are you kidding me?  I'm hearing I better get used to this in terms of senior pictures.  All those years ago, I had four outfits and they took a total of 20 pictures...all in the studio.  The props used were things at the studio.  Now?  Well if you don't have any outdoor pictures you might as well get over it.  I also had one mom tell me yesterday that her daughter wants to have outdoor pictures taken...at several different sites.  I am apparently entirely too old and to be raising teens today!

Saturday, October 8, 2016

Best time yet

This morning the boys had their final regular season cross country meet.  It's our favorite meet of the season.  The course is wonderful, the meet is well run, and the park in which it is held is absolutely gorgeous this time of year.  Today was an absolutely perfect day as well.  My mom and grandmother came down to see the boys run.  Robert had a really great finish, and he really kicked it in at the end.  We were standing in a great spot to be able to see his determination.  It was his best finish of the season (sadly, there have only been two) and it's still questionable whether or not he is able to compete in the post season race.  It will be determined next week at the league meet.  But we are very impressed and pleased with where he is with things right now.  Thomas's race was the final race of the day.  He finished last, but was able to take nearly an entire minute off his best time and set a new PR.  We were so proud of him!  I was also so grateful that my mom & grandma were able to be there as well and see them.  It's been a great day!

It didn't work out at all as we had planned

Last evening, Andrew and I were really looking forward to an evening out just the two of us.  I had decided we would combine it with my birthday dinner, and that way I wouldn't feel so guilty about the amount of money we would be spending.  There are few really nice restaurants here in town.  After all, it's a college town and bar food is the norm.  We decided we would try a different one then the one we normally go to.  It would be a little less expensive but we'd hood fabulous things about it.  It's Italian, which isn't my favorite, but I had checked out the menu online and was willing to give it a try.  We called Thursday to make a reservation and they mentioned they didn't do that, but that we could call Friday and do "Call ahead seating".  They opened at 5.  We called at 5:20 and the earliest they could get us in was 8:00.  We were a little astounded, and couldn't make that work since Robert would be off work no later than 9 and we are still his transportation.  We decided we would just go to the restaurant we usually visit...a little more expensive but we know we like it.  I headed out to take Robert to work and told Andrew to go ahead and call them and get us a reservation.  Unfortunately, it appears as though that restaurant has shut down for good.  We are stunned.  We ended up going to a Mexican restaurant with good food, but it wasn't at all what either of us really wanted.  To make matters worse, I was brought the wrong food for my meal.  They were able to fix it quickly, but it just kind of fit with how the entire evening had gone.  Andrew and I were both disappointed, but ultimately, we are grateful we had the time to spend together.  We are grateful we have each other, no matter where we are eating dinner!

Friday, October 7, 2016

Into my favorite season

Fall officially began two weeks ago, but you wouldn't necessarily know it by the weather.  We did manage to have some days last week in the 60's, but there have been plenty in the upper 70's & even 80's as well.  This weekend is going to bring a cold front though, and I'm looking forward to much cooler temps.  I'm also looking forward to the leaves beginning to change.  They are starting to a bit, but not nearly as much as I remember in years past.

There is just something I find so incredibly peaceful about this time of year.  Even driving is so calm and relaxing.  I had to take Thomas to our former town for a doctor appointment and he was commenting on how much enjoyed looking out and seeing the farms.  It's almost indescribable.  I'm so grateful for these days!

Friday has arrived again, and there is no football tonight!

This week has gone quickly, but I don't mind.  Except, of course, that the weekends go even quicker!  Time is flying by, and I'm well aware of that.

Andrew and I have especially been looking forward to this evening.  Four out of the last six weeks there have been home football games which require Catherine, Andrew, and myself to be at the stadium.  Another weekend was an away game, but Catherine was still required to attend and Andrew went along to keep stats.  Tonight though, no one is required to do any football related activities.  It will be the last football-free Friday evening for the next month, and Andrew and I are taking advantage.  We are going out to dinner to celebrate the anniversary of our first date (and engagement, a year later) and also to celebrate my birthday later this month.  Robert still has to work, but only for a few hours.  By 9:30 this evening, we should all be home!  The fact that we all get to sleep in until nearly 8:00 tomorrow is even an added bonus.

Thursday, October 6, 2016

Old videos

The house is actually picked up and presentable, and I have no place I need to be until I leave to pick up the boys from practice.  This is VERY rare these days, so I took a "me" day.  I allowed myself to sleep and sleep this morning.  I've done a couple of loads of laundry, but other than that I am pretty much just hanging out.  I had been wanting to watch some old videos for awhile, and decided today was a good day to do that.  The first one I watched was Christmas of 1989.  I heard my Dad's voice, and it made me teary...and it was just the beginning.  I watched a family reunion video from 1987, and so many of my great-aunts and distant cousins have now passed away.  I watched Thanksgiving of 1986 which was the very first year we had the video camera.  My youngest cousin was only two, and she was definitely the center of attention.  It was also the last year my maternal grandfather was alive and I'm so grateful for that video.  I was a little astounded as I watched Christmas of 1990 where I introduced myself as a junior...the very age Robert is now!  My favorite family video is my college graduation video.  It's the last video I have of my paternal grandfather (he became ill that fall) and in the video my dad is seen giving me a huge hug.  He also became ill that summer, although he survived for another 17 years.

There were also lots of videos with friends, and it truly warmed my heart.  So many videos had my friend Andy in them.  Even though he now lives in Chicago, we see each other whenever we can.  Which reminds me...it has now been 18 months and we need to try to plan another visit.  All of the friends' videos had Stephanie and Chad in them.  They are my two closest friends in the entire world.  I laughed so many times because we've always known each other so well, and so many things haven't changed.  I couldn't help but think about the night before my dad's funeral.  Andy was in town and staying at a motel in our hometown.  Andrew and I decided we would stay there as well because it was too much driving otherwise.  We managed to get a room right across the hall from Andy.  After we put the kids down, Andrew and I went over to Andy's room, and Chad and Steph were there as well.  We were able to hang out for several hours, and I remember feeling the greatest sense of peace that I could possibly imagine.  Chad and I had a conversation later that, outside of my immediate family, the three most important people to me in the entire world, were in that room that evening.  There is no other way I would've rather spent that evening.

I'm so grateful for the opportunity to watch these videos.  I'm so grateful for the memories, and I'm so grateful for the reminders to cherish those who are still with us!

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Our engagement anniversary

It was on this date, many, many years ago, that Andrew and I became engaged.  It was exactly one year and one day after our first date.  For some reason, it is really kind of hitting me this year.  I just can't believe how much time has passed since that day.  I'm so grateful for the days we have together, and I hope we aren't even half way through those days.  At the same time, oh our days of this crazy parenting are so much more than half over.  I'm so in love with this life we have right now, even as exhausting as it is.  I wouldn't trade this time together for anything at all.

Another race last evening

Thomas had another race last evening.  Both boys will race this weekend, but there is a chance, because of the schedules of the others, that I may not get to see Robert race again.  It stinks, but as parents we do what we have to do.

Robert and Catherine were with us for this race.  I can't help but worry about Thomas and how long he takes.  Goodness, he doesn't move quickly.  At the same time he is exactly who I would be if I had ever thought about running.  I'm proud of him for never complaining, and never, ever asking to quit.  He's a part of the team, and he's enjoying the success as a team overall.

And folks, there is nothing like the sportsmanship of cross country.  I mean nothing like it!  My young guy finished second to last, as he pretty much does every single time.  His time was slower, because basically he pushes himself just hard enough to not finish last, so his time depends on the strength of the runner behind him.  There was one young man who finished behind Thomas, and I always make sure I stay and cheer on any runners who are behind Thomas.  They deserve the cheers for finishing as well.  After the race, the young man came by Thomas, and these two congratulated each other on running a good race.  And it was a good race because both of them finished.  I love, love, love seeing the sportsmanship.  It give me faith that there is still some kindness left in the world!

They all went well for the first time in years

Last week, we finished up the third of our three sets of parent teacher conferences.  For the first time in about six years, ALL of them went well.  Catherine is actually the one struggling the most with her grades, but that is part of the adjustment she needs to learn from middle school to high school.  We are keeping our fingers crossed that Robert stays determined and motivated, and I actually cried at conferences for Thomas.  Andrew was able to come along for that one (although he was part of Catherine's, he was only able to hear from one other teacher).  Sixth grade was just a complete flop for Thomas.  He didn't seem to know whether he was coming or going, and there were a lot of tears of frustration.  This summer, we began him on a very low dose of medication to help with his focus issues.  I had suspected for years Thomas might need some help, but because he didn't have the hyperactivity component, it was written off more as either laziness or a lack or organization.  I was just as guilty of that at times as the teachers.  Finally after sixth grade math, which is something Thomas is VERY good at, with my son sitting in tears because of barely passing things, I knew we had a problem.  This year, I sat and listened to fabulous reports across the board from ALL of his teachers.  It was kind of astounding, and when they even showed me some of the classroom work he was completing, I actually got tears in my eyes.  I'm so grateful for the medications that, even at such a very low dose, can help my son succeed and reach his potential.  I'm so grateful for the alternate way that Robert has an opportunity to learn by being in a career based program that motivates him, and I'm so grateful for Catherine's teachers, who while understanding that she is struggling a little, all mentioned what a truly nice young lady and hard worker she is.  I know all of this being so great won't last, but we will take it while it does!

Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Moving on into October

It is October.  Yep, sure is.  I love this month.  I pretty much always have.  Of course, it doesn't hurt that it is my birthday month.  It is also the month that Andrew and I began dating all those years ago.  And of course, generally speaking the weather is gorgeous.

Right now, I'm also feeling a little overwhelmed by the month, but we will get through.  Life is good, and very blessed, and I'm grateful for each day.

Saturday, October 1, 2016

The first Saturday of October

October has finally arrived.  September felt like such a long month.  Andrew and I are understanding and accepting of how our lives are working and that we just don't get to see a lot of each other right now.  We also know that it is temporary though, and life will settle down in a few weeks.

Of course all Saturdays in the fall involve college football.  Notre Dame and OSU both had great wins today.  I was able to watch them because I personally had no place to be!  I had to transport some kids here and there, but that was the extent of my schedule as they were all "drop and go" activities.  This evening, Andrew has taken the younger two to a baseball game and Robert is working.  I'm enjoying the quiet time (and of course watching some football).

I'm also enjoying the cooler weather.  There will be a warm up this week, but hopefully nothing above the 70's.  The weather this fall has led to not much color yet, but I am hoping that come eventually.  I find the color changing such a peaceful experience.  There are so many things I love about this season!

Thursday, September 29, 2016

Sleeping in a cocoon

Now that the cooler temps have finally arrived, I am back to sleeping in my cocoon.    I'll be honest, this is just about the only thing about the cooler temps I don't like.  While I hate being hot when I sleep, my (apparent) OCD about falling asleep when cooler is rather annoying.  When it is chilly (the best sleeping weather) I have to sleep completely wrapped up.  I am a side/stomach sleeper, and in cooler weather it becomes almost exclusive stomach.  However, I can't sleep on one side of my head very long, so there is still "flipping".  And when I say I need to be wrapped in my cocoon, I need the covers to be completely wrapped underneath my torso so that no air can come in.  It's a little ridiculous...not to mention not fun for my husband who has to deal with my constant "fixing".

I'm not going to complain about this though.  Last evening I lit my Pumpkin Spice Candle and oh goodness!  Everything smelled absolutely wonderful.  I am in love!!!!!

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Early bedtimes

I don't like Wednesdays because Andrew has games and it is so late when he gets home, but for the rest of us, it's our early night of the week.  It's early release day from school for Catherine and Thomas.  They were both home by 2:30 this afternoon.  I picked Robert up from the bus at 3, he had an appointment, I ran to work, and after I picked him up we were both home by 5.  The boys usually aren't home until at least 5, and there are evenings where Robert has to work or he runs errands with me.  Catherine has band two nights a week and mock trial once.  This doesn't count the weekends...when Robert works nearly every evening and there is Friday night football.  We are just a tired house.

It also happened today that there wasn't much homework, and there was plenty of time to do it.  I was up until after 11:30 last evening getting ready for today's volunteer assignment, and then was out the door by 7 this morning to spend the day at the school.  I came home and just sat.  I could be unloading the dishwasher, working on laundry, or any number of other things, but I just wanted to sit down.  I had the kids take early showers and we were just hanging out.  I happened to close my eyes during the evening, and when I awoke at 7:00, I realized that Robert was sound asleep in the other room on the couch.  I got him up and sent him to bed.  He'll be able to get ten hours, and that is awesome.  I'm a little jealous!  I put Thomas and Catherine to bed 1/2 hour early as well.  It never hurts to get some extra sleep when the opportunity presents itself!

Only three more games

It is 9:00, and Andrew still isn't home.  In fact, he isn't even in town yet so it will be at least another 1/2 hour before he's at the house.  I'm so grateful he is coaching middle school and not high school.  It's tough enough as it is.  We are getting there though.  There are only three more weeks left in the season.  Almost finished!

I'm really trying not to complain.  The extra money is very much appreciated.  It's just turning into something of a long week.  Thomas has two weeks of cross country remaining, and Robert has three.  Catherine still has five weeks of marching band remaining (the season that never ends!) and she has also joined Mock Trial.  So yep, there is a lot going on right now, but I know that there will come a time when we are going to miss this...especially after my lunch time experience today!

A "first" that made me a little sad

I am spending my day at the schools today helping to promote a fundraiser for our bands.  I don't mind, and I even enjoy the opportunity to see my kids during the day.  I enjoy being able to see them in their own environment.  It's part of the reason I enjoyed subbing so much.  The kids always enjoyed catching a glimpse of me during the day as well.  Thomas, in particular, loved having me around.  I remember so many instances of him incorporating me into his day.

I've always tried to respect my kids and their need for space.  As high school students, they already know that their dad is always there, and honestly I'm at the high school a great deal as well.  Today though, I'm also at the middle school.  I knew the schedule somewhat, and when it was time for 7th grade to eat lunch I decided to walk towards the cafeteria.  About half way there, I ran into Thomas.  I stopped and said hello, and asked if it was okay that I walk with him.  His answer was, "no."  To be honest I was surprised and definitely a little sad.  Not so sad that I'm going to make an issue of it.  He is certainly entitled to all of it.  It's not surprise that these days come...it's part of the process of them growing up.  I'm grateful for all of our experiences, but I miss those days when I was the center of their world!

Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Looking forward to it

In about five minutes I'm going to walk out the door for parent/teacher conferences, and I'm looking forward to it.  Catherine is having some minor adjustment difficulties to high school, but overall I'm sure she's going to be okay.  She is a hard worker, and takes a great deal of pride in her school work.  And I'm really looking forward to having a meeting with her world history teacher!  I love seeing Andrew at work, and since it is going to be a really late evening, I appreciate being able to see him even more!

Monday, September 26, 2016

Cooler weather is arriving

We turned our a/c off this weekend, but it's still been pretty warm.  I've been refusing to have it on though, because it was the last weekend in September.  It was getting cool enough in the evenings that it was tolerable.  Finally though, fall has arrived!  The temps this week won't reach out of the low 70's, and the overnight lows are going to be in the 40's.  I am so excited I could do a little jig!  This is my kind of weather!!!

Sunday, September 25, 2016

His return to running

Yesterday was Robert's return to competing on the cross country team.  I wasn't able to be there because Thomas began his art classes.  Knowing that he hadn't run at all in nearly four weeks, and hadn't finished a race even before that, I was nervous about how things might go.  The coach had a conversation with Robert this week about not going out to hard.  He needed to recognize and accept his current physical condition and limitations.  Robert had told me his plan was to run in the 25 minute range, which is nowhere near his personal best, and also is nowhere near being competitive.  Andrew called me when it was over and said Robert had completed the race...and I let out a huge sigh of relief!  It took over 24 minutes, but he did finish.  Robert has learned a lesson about his lack of preparing this past summer, and combined with the surgery might very well take him out of any post-season competitions.  He still has his senior year though, and hopefully be running track, and actually preparing in the off season, he'll be able to be competitive again.

The day after Homecoming

Yesterday was Homecoming.  Today is the day after.  One makes me happy.  One does not.

Robert attended Homecoming with his current "girlfriend".  I use the term in quotes because they don't really get to spend much time together, but generally speaking they are identified as a couple.  Anyway, the young lady had a family wedding to attend in the afternoon so Robert attended with her.  They ate dinner there, then the young lady's parents chaperoned the dance and brought Robert home afterwards.  Being a guy, he had a sport coat and nice clothes, so we purchased nothing new.  That's the way I like it.

Catherine attended with a young man who is also a student of Andrew.  They apparently are also boyfriend/girlfriend, but I'm not quite identifying them that way yet.  This young man lives with his grandparents, and they brought him over later afternoon.  The two exchanged flowers here and we took some pictures.  The grandparents then drove them to dinner and the dance, and we did the late night return.

Thomas did his best to stay awake until the older siblings were home.  He was awake when Robert got home, but sound asleep by the time Catherine and Andrew arrived about 25 minutes later.  He had been so excited and especially wanted to hear about his sister's evening, but it was just too late.  After he went to bed, the four of us sat around and discussed the evening.  Everyone had a nice evening, although as you might expect with a high school dance there was some drama.  Some of it involved friends of Robert's date, and some involved Catherine herself.  We discussed it all, and I was a little amused at Robert's take on things that happened with Catherine.  It was nice to see him care so much about how things went with her.

Today is another story...although it is coming around.  This morning, everyone is tired and we decided to stay home from church so people could sleep.  There was plenty of snarkiness and passive aggressive tattling.  Andrew made some waffles, and again we had the opportunity to do breakfast instead of dinner (Robert works a double shift today).  The temps have also dropped, and right at this moment, I'm feeling so grateful for this life!

Friday, September 23, 2016

It seems ridiculous to decorate for fall

Yesterday was the official beginning of that season AFTER summer, known as fall, or autumn.  Mother Nature clearly didn't get the memo.  Summer is OVER.  Today's high temperature?  Ninety degrees...a full fifteen degrees above normal.  I would be completely okay with fifteen degrees below normal, but noooooo.  It seems completely ridiculous to get out my cozy fall decorations at this point!

A big weekend around here

This has been a particularly crazy week.  Today is the first day I've actually been home most of the day.  Only most mind you, as I have to leave around 4:15 and won't be done running around until after 9.  This crazy week leads into this crazy weekend...homecoming.  Yikes.

The day begins early tomorrow morning with Thomas having his first art lesson and Robert having a cross country meet (this one is high school only).  Robert has officially been released to run this week and will be allowed to participate tomorrow.  I'm pleased to hear he isn't going to try to push himself too hard, and I'm grateful his coach took the time to have a conversation with him about it.

A quick turn around will lead to the homecoming dance.  Both Robert and Catherine are attending...and we are entering a new phase for which I'm just not sure I'm ready.  Robert has had a "girlfriend" for a few weeks.  She is a freshman at high school and since he is attending the career school, they don't get to see each other very much.  In this day of texting though, there is definitely much daily communication.  She seems to be a fine young lady, and I'm grateful that it seems her parents are as much into supervision as we are.  Catherine is also "dating" (although they haven't actually been out on a date yet) a young man who happens to be a student in one of Andrew's classes.  We were able to meet his grandparents last evening (he lives with them) and I feel better about the situation.  They will pick Catherine up and take her to dinner and then the dance, and we'll do the Midnight drive home.

I'm having a tough time accepting that the dating phase of life is upon us...especially for my sweet little girl.  Watching both kids with their "significant others" last evening at the parade really hit me.  These aren't my babies anymore.  We are oh so very close to the end of my 24/7 parenting, and well, just wow.  I'm not ready for all of it yet, but clearly, I better find a way to be.

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

I hurt when my kids hurt

Parenting teens is just really tough.  I love my kids with all of my heart, and when they hurt...I hurt right along with them.  The worst part is the hurt that comes in the form of discipline, or life lessons learned.  Well, maybe not.  All hurt just stinks.  I'm grateful though, for the understanding that this is part of life and I have to let my kids experience.  Grateful, only because I know it will serve them well in the long run.  In the short run though, well again, it just stinks.

Catherine shared with us this week that she was being excluded from a band sectional dinner, and she was visibly upset about this.  As we discussed further, while we don't necessarily agree with the actions taken by other band members, we do understand it.  It turns out that Catherine hasn't been doing what she needed to be doing at practice, and she is struggling in that regard.  I think Andrew and I helped her to see that, and we also gave her some advice on how to begin to make amends for her part in the situation.

We also learned that Thomas made a very poor choice this week, and made a very poor choice last week.  Both choices resulted in other students being hurt (not necessarily physically).  Thomas needed to step up and accept the consequences for his actions.  The tough part as a mom is that he didn't intend to hurt these kids, and as he read the apology note last evening the hurt in his voice nearly broke my heart.  As a mom, I just wanted to wrap my arms around him and tell him that I know he didn't mean it and all is okay.  That isn't the case though.  Sometimes our actions have unintended consequences, and that is why it so SO IMPORTANT to think before we act.  I know he gets that...but oh goodness.  It really was heartbreaking.

I miss the days when the worst my kids had to deal with was a scraped knee or something so insignificant, and that a hug and a kiss from me could fix everything.  Those days are long gone though, and I'm grateful for each and every day we have now.  Thomas even crawled up on my lap last evening and I'm grateful I can still be of comfort.  There are so many days when I'm just not sure how I'm going to get through my emotions of watching my babies grow up, but I'm more grateful than I can put into words that I get to watch them do it.

Monday, September 19, 2016

Ready for cooler, cozier temps

This Thursday is the official beginning of my favorite season.  Meteorologists even feel September 1 is the beginning of the season.  Yet, there is nothing but eighty degree temps in the forecast.  We actually have our a/c on...at the end of September!  I'm really ready for sweatshirts and lighting candles in the evening.  I remember eight years ago running our a/c in October, and I'm beginning to wonder if this is going to be another one like that.  Fingers crossed for some cooler temps!

Sunday, September 18, 2016

Family dinners aren't really happening

I think the biggest regret I have about this fall has been our lack of family dinners.  They just pretty much aren't happening.  Mondays and Thursdays I have to leave at 5:30 to get Catherine to band practice (and she is there until 8:30) and Andrew isn't home until 6ish.  The four of us can do dinner on those evenings and we have (if Robert isn't working), but I miss my girl.  On Wednesdays, Andrew's games have been lasting until past 8PM.  I can do dinner with the kiddos, but I miss my hubby.  On Friday, Robert usually works, and most weeks Catherine, Andrew, and I have responsibilities at the football games.  Even this past Friday, Catherine and Andrew still had to go even though it was two hours away (and Robert was working).  Saturdays depend on the week, but last evening Robert worked and Catherine had a band competition.  Some weeks we can make it happen though.  Tuesdays used to be pretty good, but we've had some weeks where there have been some cross country meets (like this coming week), some where Robert has worked (like last week) and starting in two weeks Catherine will have mock trial practice every week.  We can probably still squeeze in dinner though, at least sometimes.  That leaves us with Sundays.  I have always, always held Sundays pretty sacred during the school year.  They are even more important to me now with not having much to go on the other six nights of the week.  Today though, Andrew had a meeting to attend, and next week Robert will be working.  I know this is reality, and I know that we are no different than any other family with children, but that doesn't mean I have to like it.  It does mean though, that I better accept it, and treasure whatever moments we can all squeeze in together.  This morning was an example of that.  Instead of church, we stayed home and Andrew made us all bacon and eggs for breakfast.  I'm so grateful for this morning...so very grateful.

Friday, September 16, 2016

September is kicking our butts!

I'm not going to lie.  This is a tired house.  We are five tired, but happy people.  I'm very grateful that my husband is enjoying coaching middle school football, and I'm grateful for the extra money it will give us.  Catherine is loving high school and marching band.  She is also planning to work back stage for the fall play and is planning to do mock trial.  So far, Robert is doing well at the career school and is very motivated.  In addition, his new job is absolutely fabulous, and I'm so grateful for the improved environment.  By the middle of next week, he will be able to resume running, although we aren't entirely certain how much success he'll have this season as a whole.  Thomas is making it through cross country, but it's not his most favorite activity.  Overall, I have to say, middle school just kind of stinks, but he is doing okay with all of the drama that tends to happen at that age.  So all-in-all, we are doing well but all of these activities are making us very tired.  I'm grateful for all of these opportunities though, and in just about five more weeks the real craziness of it all will pretty much be over!

Mom the taxi driver

I know I spend a lot of time in the car, but something happened on Wednesday that really spelled it out for me.  On my way to picking up Robert at school, I filled up the gas tank and reset the trip mileage.  When I finally pulled into the driveway for the final time that evening, the trip odometer read 54 miles exactly.  All of that was driving my children around.  My, my goodness.  The good news is that Robert has his temporary driving permit, and by next spring he should be able to drive himself around.  I am particularly looking forward to that day!

Sunday, September 11, 2016

Renewing my license

I have officially begun the process of renewing my sub license.  I have such mixed emotions about this.  I have loved, truly beyond words, being able to be a full-time SAHM for the last three years.  I know without a doubt it has been the best thing for our family for the past three years.  Not working is what my family needed.  I also know that it is time though, and for the first time since we've moved here, I'm actually a little excited about it.  That doesn't mean it isn't without some mixed emotions because it is going to be different this time.  I prefer to be with the younger ones, and I had such a network established at our old district.  Here now though, I need to be on the same schedule as the kids, and that means upper level classes.  I refuse to be at the middle school because I think it's such a rotten age, so that means strictly at the high school...with my husband.  That is going to be a little weird for us, and there are even going to be days when I might be in for him.  Something new!  I'll still have my job at the church and my volunteer responsibilities, so my goal is to only work two days a week.  I want to be "mom" and that is my goal for the next 5-1/2 years until Thomas graduates.  I also want to make some improvements to our home, and in order to do that, I need to work.  I should be working by November at the latest, and I'm hoping it will be just as fun as before!

A beautifully blue sky on this 15th anniversary

Fifteen years ago today was the day that changed our country forever...perhaps more so than any other day in our history.  My kids don't understand that you used to be able to go to Canada just by driving there and stopping to tell them you had nothing to declare, or that there used to be a day when you could actually walk to the airport gate to meet whomever you were greeting.

One of the things I remember most about that day was the gorgeously vibrant blue sky in New York.  It was the same here that day as well.  I thought it made the horror and destruction all the more stark.  Up until the planes crashed that day, it would've been considered by so many as a "perfect day".  We are having similar weather here today, although there are a few clouds in the sky.  The blue is so dramatic again though, and it's such a vibrant remember.  I can't imagine it all, and I'm grateful for that.  I pray daily for the safety of my friends and family.  God bless America.

Friday, September 9, 2016

We received sad news today.

We received very sad news in our family today.  Our dear friend Pat, who was so important in the lives of our children and who loved them very much, passed away yesterday.  Her husband called Andrew and it was a good thing he didn't call me.  I just couldn't get over the shock.  My heart is broken for her family.  My heart also hurts for my kids.  Pat was so very good to them, and would travel clear across the country to visit them.  She had told me once that she planned to be here when each of them graduated from high school, and even though I knew it would mean traveling, I fully expected that she and Eric would be.  My kids were that important to her.  I'm completely in denial that I'm never going to be able to share stories with her again.   We are sending prayers of comfort to the family.