I vividly remember this time of school year. The thoughts of-- just get me to Thanksgiving break. And then just get me to Christmas break. Your mind, as a teacher, is set on vacation time--away from your students. The kids are NUTS, excitement driven, and SO hard to teach. Lots of time is spent on keeping the kids' attention and getting homework turned in. Stress. Stress that luckily I have been able to avoid this year.
It's different here. Being a stay-at-home mom. I get to share in the excitement of the holiday season with my kids. The expression on Mal's face this year was priceless. It was adorable. Each time a new bin came up, a new chore was asked of her. PJ's on, teeth brushed, toys put away. It was brilliant. Still wish I had a few more bins of Xmas decorations to set out. We've also enjoyed making cookies, decorating, crafting, enjoying the outdoors (even if it's COLD), AND it's not even December yet!
Don't get me wrong, I have stress. But it's so different. And minimal. Nothing compared to teaching 65 fifth graders during this holiday season. And trying to accomplish everything at home and cherish the holidays with my family (especially my kids). My stress unfortunately came home with me, EVEN though I tried so hard to leave it at school.
I was hoping to have a decision-of whether I'd stay at home next year-by Christmas. And as most of you know--or can tell by my blog--I think I had the answer way back in the first week of September. Teaching "fits" me but being a stay-at-home mom "fits" me better right now. If the shoe fits, wear it, right?!?!?!
Top 10 for the Week:
10. Downfalls. Why not start out with the drawbacks of the week? Minor, little occurrences. But thought I'd share. 1) I have another stupid cold. Seems my body just can't recover. I am sick of doctors, medication, and feeling lousy. Done. 2) "EEK" problem in the house. Jay has trapped FOUR mice...here's hoping they are GONE. 3) I feel I might have lost the potty training train. Due to the "rock," Clay's training was put to a halt. Now, it seems I can't go back:0( HUGE bummer. 4) I really dislike car rides with our children. Clay is at such an awful stage right now. Too bad he doesn't watch TV yet. Let's just say we are REALLY looking forward to Christmas and the TWO major car trips we have to take!
9. "Granola." I'm not sure what has gotten into me. Media? Being sick? Or friends? But I am starting to really look at the food we (my family and I) put into our bodies and the things that surround us. It is interesting to hear about other peoples' tips on how to stay healthy. It's not as easy as just buying fresh fruit. This month I'd like to make my own bread and try smoothies (I really think my kids would LOVE them and then I could get some more veggies in their diet). I have put in a request to Santa for a bread maker. Already tried "borrowing" my parents but it seems they took it to Goodwill. Bread makers are back people.
8. Preparations. Holiday preparations are in full swing in the Newell Household and I'm hoping to try a few pinterest ideas this month as well. IF I find the time. Put up the Nativity scene today which both kids were googly eyed over it. Making a felt tree for the kiddos...super excited about that. AND our Christmas cards are ordered. YES, I am on the ball. Seriously, never would have thought that, but it's done. YES!
7. Clayisms. Sir Clayton is picking up on some of my OCDisms. Yes, I have a few. BUT, a few are not so bad, right? Anyways, he is such a big boy and is picking up after himself. After having a snack, he puts the bowl in the sink. Seriously. I love it. Still obsessed with babies. Thinks he can hold anyone's baby. Still climbing things and getting many bruises and cuts. Such a boy. Full energy all the time. He wears me out, that's for sure.
6. Malloryisms. Is getting rather pushy with her brother. Several times this week, we caught her hitting her brother. I partially understand her frustration. He will not leave her alone and he is getting wise about his actions. She retaliates and shoves, hits, or pushes. Trying to teach her the correct way to handle the situation. Extremely hard. Pray for patience for me please. In the car on the way home, Clay threw a book at her. Jay told her it was okay. She replied matter-of-fact, "I'm not okay. It's mean." Help us please.
5. "Skinny" Bin. Yes, I have a skinny bin in the basement. This week, I decided to take a peak and try a few of the pants on. Boy was I surprised when I was able to gain FIVE new pants!! Running after the boy and being sick has caused me to be able to fit into my "skinny" jeans--which I wore prior to being preggers with Mal. Please don't hate me.
4. Biggest Bar Night of Year. I was able to meet up with three of my "old" high school girlfriends. We had so much fun catching up and laughing. I love you girls!! And truly enjoyed our few hours of yelling (so loud in bar) at each other! I'm really looking forward to seeing you again. Hopefully during the holiday. Who's up for it??? (Side note: Today marks 21 days of NO pop or alcohol. I am determined to work this out!)
3. Black Friday Shopping. I spent part of Thanksgiving and Black Friday shopping online. Scored some GREAT deals in the comfort of my parent's home. It was awesome!! I LOVE online shopping. It's so easy and so convenient!! Jay and my dad risked the crowds and went out at midnight and at 8AM to score a DVD player for us and a few other Christmas gifts.
2. HOME:o) Walking up the stairs after being gone for a few days from our home, made me smile. I love visiting family and going on vacations....BUT being home is SO great. There is something about the smell, feel, and coziness of your own home. I love what we've made of our home.
1. Thanksgiving Celebration. A great time with the family. A much needed time away with my parents and family. We watched Mr. Popper's Penguins which is an adorable movie that all of us enjoyed. Did some shopping, cooking, playing, and just chilling. It was nice to have some down time and to enjoy the extended family. A great time was had by all. Plus some really yummy food.
Last week of November!
So hard to believe we are approaching December!
Hope you all enjoyed your extended weekend!
We sure did!
Have a great week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. Last week's blog had a record high of viewings:o) Thanks to all of you who take the time out to "listen" to me babble.
P.P.S. Thanks to all of you who posted on my FB message about vacuuming. I felt a bit of a slacker in the cleanliness department. SO, I vacuumed THREE times this week. Not every day, but more than usual.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Sunday, November 18, 2012
One Life Change
Since it is Thanksgiving this week, I felt it was fitting to share with you what I am SO extremely thankful for this year. I think it's rather obvious, but this year I am thankful for my chance at being home. It really encompasses all the things in my life that mean the most to me.
Because of this, I am closer and more loving to my husband, kids, extended family, friends, and God. I am whole again--mind, body (somewhat), and soul. I am more collected in my thoughts, decisions, house, and parenting skills. I am witnessing more firsts like crocheting, Zumba, cooking/baking, scrap booking, and blogging. I am appreciating moments, lessons, people, our community, country, and life.
Instead of usually being thankful for the extended time off of my teaching job, this year I am thankful for the new outlook on life and for really being able to appreciate this holiday and the meaning of it.
I know it seems so strange to have one life change mean so much. But it's true. Because I am slowing down, taking it all in, and being thankful for what I have in this wonderful life God has given me.
Top 10 for the WEEK:
(GREAT week by the way)
10. Revisiting ER. Unfortunately, I revisited the ER this week due to my doctor's suggestion. What came out of the visit? Absolutely NOTHING. I was extremely disappointed and frustrated to have wasted three hours of my day. No solutions. But then, I looked at the situation differently and came up with a positive twist. 1) I was able to finish TWO magazines (I am subscribed to 4--and I am always behind). 2) Jay fed the kids, did the dishes, and folded laundry (BONUS points Jay!!) 3) My MIL came to take Jay's spot so he could go bowling and started bathing the kids. and lastly 4) I stopped by the bowling alley to switch cars and walking in, brought me back to our "dating days." It made me smile.
9. Love of Pinterest. I made SEVERAL recipes this week. If you know me, you know that I don't cook or bake. Or shall I say, I didn't before this fall. So, it's big in my house and with me. Two of the recipes were a HUGE hit in my house. The first one was Baked Ziti and my mom happened to be here. It felt great making a "real" meal for her, after all the times she has done it for me. Clay had 3 1/2 helpings. I am completely serious on that one. Jay was shocked and couldn't stop raving about it. The recipe actually made two dishes so I have ONE in the freezer. How awesome it that?! The second was a pancake muffin. We loved them and it was so quick and easy. Who would have honestly thought that I would be cooking as much as I do??? I'm still in shock. Love to Pinterest.
8. Vacuum LOVE. This is by far my kids' favorite chore I do. As soon as they hear the vacuum, they come running. It's like a game and the dog joins in as well. Such easy entertainment. I would love to purchase vacuums for them for Christmas. I really need to look into that so Clay doesn't constantly fight over mine. The vacuum is BIG in our house.
7. Venturing OUT. I was so fed up with being on house arrest that I went to Holland to meet friends and my mom. I couldn't stand it anymore and I was beyond caring about using the bathroom twenty times while gone. Luckily, I didn't drink much and by the end of the visit my urgency to pee subsided. Which began the start of a better week!! Praise God. I was ready.
6. Preholiday Prep. I have a confession to make. I put almost all of our Christmas decorations out tonight. I know, it's horrible. And I feel like I'm totally following the stores, commercials, and advertisements with forgetting Thanksgiving. But you have to understand that my Fall decorations have been up since September 1st. It was time. The kids LOVED it--especially Mal. Last year, I packed away all the Christmas books to save them for this time of year. I had to read FIVE Christmas/winter books to her tonight and when I left her room she asked if I could read more to her when she got up in the morning. LOVE her. And love how she loves books. We also put up outdoor lights and lights in the playroom. The facial expressions on our kids was SO worth the agony and work it took to put them up. I truly love this time of year. And having kids, makes it SOOOOO much better and more special.
5. The "BIG one." This year, Jay hunted opening day in our backyard to catch the "BIG one" he saw on his trail camera. It was great having him so close. I was finishing up the breakfast dishes when I looked up and saw his orange hat. I ran to get the kids and we all watched him for awhile. It was SO strange being able to see him from the kitchen and bedroom windows. I almost felt like I was invading his privacy:o) Growing up in a hunting household, I understand the importance of the stillness and silence of the woods. I know it seems strange, but I still feel bad for "spying" on him. Ha!
4. Clayisms. Clay's obsession with getting into things is crazy. This week he was able to get into Mal's rocking crib, the space between our dresser and wall, his old excersaucer (which he had both legs in one leg hole), Mal's dollhouse (a truly funny sight), and there's more but I can't remember them. I really don't understand this craze. But then again, sometimes I really don't understand him:o) This week Clay also started saying "Mwah" when he gave kisses. So cute. That boy will always have my heart.
3. Malloryisms. The FUNNIEST thing this week was Mal kept calling my kidney stone a "rock." Every time she said it I cracked up. By golly gee girl it better not be a ROCK!! I would much rather have her refer to it as a pebble. Pebble would be nice. "Mommy is your rock out yet?" Let's hope so my dear!!! Mal and I are also working on teaching Clayton animal noises. When we see animals in the car, we vocalize their noises. As I was mooing one morning, Mal says "Good Mooing Mommy!" Sounded like "Good Morning Mommy." It was adorable. She also "wasn't feeling good" Thursday morning, so I let her stay home. Gosh--lesson learned there. She was totally fine. And I felt SO guilty the WHOLE day. She's in preschool half-a-day and I was freaking out about her staying home when she should have been at school! Yes, my teacher side came out. Even typing it now, still makes me feel bad. I'm done. Moving on.
2. Connecting with friends. Since I was really feeling great by the end of this week, I jammed my Friday-Sunday with outings. From play dates to old colleagues visiting for dinner to a night out with the hubby to a ladies shopping trip to Kalamazoo--I enjoyed EVERY minute of it. Thank-you God for making me feel better and getting me back into my world. I missed it!!
1. My Sh-- IS together now. Yes, it is back together. I feel great (knock on wood). I'm still keeping my appointment for Wednesday just in case...but I am SO extremely glad that by the end of the week, I was back to normal. And I think my kids and husband do to. And everyone else around me:o)
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!
Enjoy your family and friends.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. Today marks 14 days without pop and alcohol. I broke down this morning and had ONE cup of coffee after a late night out the night before. I feel SO much better and healthier. I feel it's a combination of hydrating myself with water and less sugar. With that, it motivates me to continue.
Because of this, I am closer and more loving to my husband, kids, extended family, friends, and God. I am whole again--mind, body (somewhat), and soul. I am more collected in my thoughts, decisions, house, and parenting skills. I am witnessing more firsts like crocheting, Zumba, cooking/baking, scrap booking, and blogging. I am appreciating moments, lessons, people, our community, country, and life.
Instead of usually being thankful for the extended time off of my teaching job, this year I am thankful for the new outlook on life and for really being able to appreciate this holiday and the meaning of it.
I know it seems so strange to have one life change mean so much. But it's true. Because I am slowing down, taking it all in, and being thankful for what I have in this wonderful life God has given me.
Top 10 for the WEEK:
(GREAT week by the way)
10. Revisiting ER. Unfortunately, I revisited the ER this week due to my doctor's suggestion. What came out of the visit? Absolutely NOTHING. I was extremely disappointed and frustrated to have wasted three hours of my day. No solutions. But then, I looked at the situation differently and came up with a positive twist. 1) I was able to finish TWO magazines (I am subscribed to 4--and I am always behind). 2) Jay fed the kids, did the dishes, and folded laundry (BONUS points Jay!!) 3) My MIL came to take Jay's spot so he could go bowling and started bathing the kids. and lastly 4) I stopped by the bowling alley to switch cars and walking in, brought me back to our "dating days." It made me smile.
9. Love of Pinterest. I made SEVERAL recipes this week. If you know me, you know that I don't cook or bake. Or shall I say, I didn't before this fall. So, it's big in my house and with me. Two of the recipes were a HUGE hit in my house. The first one was Baked Ziti and my mom happened to be here. It felt great making a "real" meal for her, after all the times she has done it for me. Clay had 3 1/2 helpings. I am completely serious on that one. Jay was shocked and couldn't stop raving about it. The recipe actually made two dishes so I have ONE in the freezer. How awesome it that?! The second was a pancake muffin. We loved them and it was so quick and easy. Who would have honestly thought that I would be cooking as much as I do??? I'm still in shock. Love to Pinterest.
8. Vacuum LOVE. This is by far my kids' favorite chore I do. As soon as they hear the vacuum, they come running. It's like a game and the dog joins in as well. Such easy entertainment. I would love to purchase vacuums for them for Christmas. I really need to look into that so Clay doesn't constantly fight over mine. The vacuum is BIG in our house.
7. Venturing OUT. I was so fed up with being on house arrest that I went to Holland to meet friends and my mom. I couldn't stand it anymore and I was beyond caring about using the bathroom twenty times while gone. Luckily, I didn't drink much and by the end of the visit my urgency to pee subsided. Which began the start of a better week!! Praise God. I was ready.
6. Preholiday Prep. I have a confession to make. I put almost all of our Christmas decorations out tonight. I know, it's horrible. And I feel like I'm totally following the stores, commercials, and advertisements with forgetting Thanksgiving. But you have to understand that my Fall decorations have been up since September 1st. It was time. The kids LOVED it--especially Mal. Last year, I packed away all the Christmas books to save them for this time of year. I had to read FIVE Christmas/winter books to her tonight and when I left her room she asked if I could read more to her when she got up in the morning. LOVE her. And love how she loves books. We also put up outdoor lights and lights in the playroom. The facial expressions on our kids was SO worth the agony and work it took to put them up. I truly love this time of year. And having kids, makes it SOOOOO much better and more special.
5. The "BIG one." This year, Jay hunted opening day in our backyard to catch the "BIG one" he saw on his trail camera. It was great having him so close. I was finishing up the breakfast dishes when I looked up and saw his orange hat. I ran to get the kids and we all watched him for awhile. It was SO strange being able to see him from the kitchen and bedroom windows. I almost felt like I was invading his privacy:o) Growing up in a hunting household, I understand the importance of the stillness and silence of the woods. I know it seems strange, but I still feel bad for "spying" on him. Ha!
4. Clayisms. Clay's obsession with getting into things is crazy. This week he was able to get into Mal's rocking crib, the space between our dresser and wall, his old excersaucer (which he had both legs in one leg hole), Mal's dollhouse (a truly funny sight), and there's more but I can't remember them. I really don't understand this craze. But then again, sometimes I really don't understand him:o) This week Clay also started saying "Mwah" when he gave kisses. So cute. That boy will always have my heart.
3. Malloryisms. The FUNNIEST thing this week was Mal kept calling my kidney stone a "rock." Every time she said it I cracked up. By golly gee girl it better not be a ROCK!! I would much rather have her refer to it as a pebble. Pebble would be nice. "Mommy is your rock out yet?" Let's hope so my dear!!! Mal and I are also working on teaching Clayton animal noises. When we see animals in the car, we vocalize their noises. As I was mooing one morning, Mal says "Good Mooing Mommy!" Sounded like "Good Morning Mommy." It was adorable. She also "wasn't feeling good" Thursday morning, so I let her stay home. Gosh--lesson learned there. She was totally fine. And I felt SO guilty the WHOLE day. She's in preschool half-a-day and I was freaking out about her staying home when she should have been at school! Yes, my teacher side came out. Even typing it now, still makes me feel bad. I'm done. Moving on.
2. Connecting with friends. Since I was really feeling great by the end of this week, I jammed my Friday-Sunday with outings. From play dates to old colleagues visiting for dinner to a night out with the hubby to a ladies shopping trip to Kalamazoo--I enjoyed EVERY minute of it. Thank-you God for making me feel better and getting me back into my world. I missed it!!
1. My Sh-- IS together now. Yes, it is back together. I feel great (knock on wood). I'm still keeping my appointment for Wednesday just in case...but I am SO extremely glad that by the end of the week, I was back to normal. And I think my kids and husband do to. And everyone else around me:o)
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!
Enjoy your family and friends.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. Today marks 14 days without pop and alcohol. I broke down this morning and had ONE cup of coffee after a late night out the night before. I feel SO much better and healthier. I feel it's a combination of hydrating myself with water and less sugar. With that, it motivates me to continue.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Having my Sh-- Together
It was an extremely strange week.
It was partly a little celebration. In the back of my head, I was secretly rejoicing in the fact that I didn't have conferences to get ready for and deliver. So much work, time, and effort goes into two nights and one afternoon. No one knows the pain of conferences unless you are a teacher. It is an extremely stressful week. And I was SO glad that this week, I was no where near there.
It was also a week for "going through the motions." I did what needed to be done so that the kids were cared for, fed, and clothed. Luckily, I have my hubby and mother to help in some of the transportation, grocery shopping, and other stuff that I just didn't get to. THANKS!
It also had a grin-and-bear-it feel to it. With this stupid (yes, stupid) kidney stone, I have been constantly drinking water which means that I am constantly peeing. Try doing that with a 1 1/2 year old and almost 4 year old. If you see Clay and wonder why he has a few extra bruises on his forehead this week, it's due to my eyes not being on him ALL the time this week. Boy--does that boy like to climb and fall into everything and anything. Sorry Clay--I should be more on my A-game this week. And you know better!!!
It was also a little cabin feverish. GOSH...I wanted out SO bad. From Sunday until Thursday, I had only been out twice, to take Mal to school and to go to another doctor's appointment. The kids were bouncing off the walls and I was getting an itch to go somewhere, anywhere. Can we say Winter? What the heck am I going to do then???
It's funny everything stands still in your little world for one week, while everything else around you keeps going. I'm hoping that I will have my sh-- together (pardon my swear word) this week. I want play dates, errands to run, and things to keep me busy. This IS the year of: declutter, organize, spiritualness, parenting, crafting, discovery, enjoying life. (I know that technically this is suppose to happen every year, right? But teaching and I just don't go well together when I have kids. It's so strange).
Here's to having my sh--* together soon.
*I know that sh-- is a bold word. And I almost feel guilty writing that on my blog. But no other word describes what I am trying to say so accurately and strongly. I know my mother word approve. In fact, I'm sure she'd say this same exact phrase. You know what, I think I got this phrase from her. So, that makes everything right when your mother will say it. Right?!?!?!
Top 10 for the WEEK:
10. Time Change. I really dislike you time change. I dislike how it turns dark at 6PM and how my kids get up at 6AM. End of story. I look forward to fall back.
9. New Shades. While visiting Walgreens for like the fourth time this week, I found the perfect shades to replace the ones I sat on in my car. It was getting a bid old only having one arm (dude--what's the name of the ends of sunglasses. My brain can't think). With these sunny days, sunglasses are a must. (I could seriously be a spokesperson about Walgreens. I LOVE that place).
8. Great-do. Thank-you Vicki. You have saved me or shall I say given back to me about 15-20 minutes a day. My new do is SO easy to do. I thought I could handle a more maintenance haircut--but who was I really fooling?!?! I am not ready for that at this time in my life.
7. Kidisms. Oh Mr. Picky Clay. He is turning out to be such a picky eater. He grunts, gets his pouty face on, and pushes his dish away or drops his food on the floor when he is done. It's splendid. At least last night we got him to eat hamburgers Jay made. It only took about 20 minutes or so when the rest of us were almost finished, but he ate it. And Miss Mal. Her sentences and word choice are growing drastically. It really amazes me some of the things she says or notices. And how she is still learning how to talk correctly. This week she said "chair high" instead of high chair. I thought it was cute.
6. House Arrest. Like I mentioned above, I seriously felt like I was on house arrest. My poor kids and husband. Two major outings this weekend to the Raider Nation game (so bummed they lost) and church this morning. I am hoping to get OUT this week. Please!
5. Tag-teaming. As we were heading into the car this morning before church at like 8:25ish, I had to smile. My husband and I have this tag teaming thing down. Seriously. We have fallen into a rhythm of he does one thing with the kids, and then I do the next. It cracks me up. It went like this. I set their clothes out, fed them, while Jay was taking a shower and getting ready. Then he clothed them, put their coats on, while I was taking a shower and getting ready. He had them in the car and buckled as I was walking out the door with the "prepared" diaper bag and hats (which we didn't need because it is so warm! yeah!). Did I tell you Jay even asked me what I was smiling about when I got into the car? I love the fact that SOME days we get it right. Now know that not all days are like that! Ha!
4. Crochet Love. I've been obsessing about starting a new hobby or shall I say hobbies. I couldn't decide if I wanted to knit, make jewelery, or crochet. At Michael's this past Thursday, my mom and I decided it would be crocheting. So, we bought a book. And I'm in the process of teaching myself how to. It's fun. I can see myself doing this. I just need to have someone teach me how to do more than just one line or row of stitching. I just keep practicing and unraveling.
3. Shopping with Nana. My mother knows what truly makes me happy. She came on Thursday and we jointly decided it was time to do some shopping. Just the two of us. Which NEVER happens. We always shop with the two kids and then kick ourselves in the butt thinking that we really shouldn't have done as much as we did with the kids. But it always seems like such a great idea when we are at it. Until the meltdowns start on the way home from Kalamazoo. And the 30 minute drive feels like 60. We have put in our time of shopping with the kids, so to have this chance was appreciated. We went to the mall and Micheals. It was the best out of house arrest I had all week. Thank-you MOM! I look forward to hopefully have some time to do Christmas shopping together without kids. (Did you get that Jay??) :O)
2. Scrappin' Friends. We have these great friends called the Northrups. They live a few miles from our house. We have these crazy ideas to do things as families, couples, girl time, guy time--whatever the case, we enjoy their company. Last night it was after the kids were in bed at both houses, Kattie came over to our house and we scrapped (online now!! So cool!!) while Jay went over there and they watched football games or did whatever manly stuff they do together. Crazy isn't it? But so doable. And a nice catch-up time. I'm tired today for staying up so late last night, but I enjoyed the time of scrapping and friendship.
1. The Member's Box. Today we officially became members of Southridge Reformed Church in Kalamazoo. I know it doesn't really seem like a big deal. But it was to me. It felt great. And I am proud to be a part of such a great church. When the blue notebook was passed to us, I got to check the Member's Box. I was giddy and elated to do so.
Let's hope for a MUCH better week than last.
I have lots to do in this year-of-change and year-of-slow-down.
I hope you all have a great week!! And are enjoying this warm weather.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. I totally just had to run after my 18 month who was IN my daughter's room playing with her Barbie dolls (sorry Jay) while she was sleeping IN bed. He's now buckled into his high chair so that I can finish up my thoughts. Yes--I am that Mommy. Who isn't at some time???
It was partly a little celebration. In the back of my head, I was secretly rejoicing in the fact that I didn't have conferences to get ready for and deliver. So much work, time, and effort goes into two nights and one afternoon. No one knows the pain of conferences unless you are a teacher. It is an extremely stressful week. And I was SO glad that this week, I was no where near there.
It was also a week for "going through the motions." I did what needed to be done so that the kids were cared for, fed, and clothed. Luckily, I have my hubby and mother to help in some of the transportation, grocery shopping, and other stuff that I just didn't get to. THANKS!
It also had a grin-and-bear-it feel to it. With this stupid (yes, stupid) kidney stone, I have been constantly drinking water which means that I am constantly peeing. Try doing that with a 1 1/2 year old and almost 4 year old. If you see Clay and wonder why he has a few extra bruises on his forehead this week, it's due to my eyes not being on him ALL the time this week. Boy--does that boy like to climb and fall into everything and anything. Sorry Clay--I should be more on my A-game this week. And you know better!!!
It was also a little cabin feverish. GOSH...I wanted out SO bad. From Sunday until Thursday, I had only been out twice, to take Mal to school and to go to another doctor's appointment. The kids were bouncing off the walls and I was getting an itch to go somewhere, anywhere. Can we say Winter? What the heck am I going to do then???
It's funny everything stands still in your little world for one week, while everything else around you keeps going. I'm hoping that I will have my sh-- together (pardon my swear word) this week. I want play dates, errands to run, and things to keep me busy. This IS the year of: declutter, organize, spiritualness, parenting, crafting, discovery, enjoying life. (I know that technically this is suppose to happen every year, right? But teaching and I just don't go well together when I have kids. It's so strange).
Here's to having my sh--* together soon.
*I know that sh-- is a bold word. And I almost feel guilty writing that on my blog. But no other word describes what I am trying to say so accurately and strongly. I know my mother word approve. In fact, I'm sure she'd say this same exact phrase. You know what, I think I got this phrase from her. So, that makes everything right when your mother will say it. Right?!?!?!
Top 10 for the WEEK:
10. Time Change. I really dislike you time change. I dislike how it turns dark at 6PM and how my kids get up at 6AM. End of story. I look forward to fall back.
9. New Shades. While visiting Walgreens for like the fourth time this week, I found the perfect shades to replace the ones I sat on in my car. It was getting a bid old only having one arm (dude--what's the name of the ends of sunglasses. My brain can't think). With these sunny days, sunglasses are a must. (I could seriously be a spokesperson about Walgreens. I LOVE that place).
8. Great-do. Thank-you Vicki. You have saved me or shall I say given back to me about 15-20 minutes a day. My new do is SO easy to do. I thought I could handle a more maintenance haircut--but who was I really fooling?!?! I am not ready for that at this time in my life.
7. Kidisms. Oh Mr. Picky Clay. He is turning out to be such a picky eater. He grunts, gets his pouty face on, and pushes his dish away or drops his food on the floor when he is done. It's splendid. At least last night we got him to eat hamburgers Jay made. It only took about 20 minutes or so when the rest of us were almost finished, but he ate it. And Miss Mal. Her sentences and word choice are growing drastically. It really amazes me some of the things she says or notices. And how she is still learning how to talk correctly. This week she said "chair high" instead of high chair. I thought it was cute.
6. House Arrest. Like I mentioned above, I seriously felt like I was on house arrest. My poor kids and husband. Two major outings this weekend to the Raider Nation game (so bummed they lost) and church this morning. I am hoping to get OUT this week. Please!
5. Tag-teaming. As we were heading into the car this morning before church at like 8:25ish, I had to smile. My husband and I have this tag teaming thing down. Seriously. We have fallen into a rhythm of he does one thing with the kids, and then I do the next. It cracks me up. It went like this. I set their clothes out, fed them, while Jay was taking a shower and getting ready. Then he clothed them, put their coats on, while I was taking a shower and getting ready. He had them in the car and buckled as I was walking out the door with the "prepared" diaper bag and hats (which we didn't need because it is so warm! yeah!). Did I tell you Jay even asked me what I was smiling about when I got into the car? I love the fact that SOME days we get it right. Now know that not all days are like that! Ha!
4. Crochet Love. I've been obsessing about starting a new hobby or shall I say hobbies. I couldn't decide if I wanted to knit, make jewelery, or crochet. At Michael's this past Thursday, my mom and I decided it would be crocheting. So, we bought a book. And I'm in the process of teaching myself how to. It's fun. I can see myself doing this. I just need to have someone teach me how to do more than just one line or row of stitching. I just keep practicing and unraveling.
3. Shopping with Nana. My mother knows what truly makes me happy. She came on Thursday and we jointly decided it was time to do some shopping. Just the two of us. Which NEVER happens. We always shop with the two kids and then kick ourselves in the butt thinking that we really shouldn't have done as much as we did with the kids. But it always seems like such a great idea when we are at it. Until the meltdowns start on the way home from Kalamazoo. And the 30 minute drive feels like 60. We have put in our time of shopping with the kids, so to have this chance was appreciated. We went to the mall and Micheals. It was the best out of house arrest I had all week. Thank-you MOM! I look forward to hopefully have some time to do Christmas shopping together without kids. (Did you get that Jay??) :O)
2. Scrappin' Friends. We have these great friends called the Northrups. They live a few miles from our house. We have these crazy ideas to do things as families, couples, girl time, guy time--whatever the case, we enjoy their company. Last night it was after the kids were in bed at both houses, Kattie came over to our house and we scrapped (online now!! So cool!!) while Jay went over there and they watched football games or did whatever manly stuff they do together. Crazy isn't it? But so doable. And a nice catch-up time. I'm tired today for staying up so late last night, but I enjoyed the time of scrapping and friendship.
1. The Member's Box. Today we officially became members of Southridge Reformed Church in Kalamazoo. I know it doesn't really seem like a big deal. But it was to me. It felt great. And I am proud to be a part of such a great church. When the blue notebook was passed to us, I got to check the Member's Box. I was giddy and elated to do so.
Let's hope for a MUCH better week than last.
I have lots to do in this year-of-change and year-of-slow-down.
I hope you all have a great week!! And are enjoying this warm weather.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. I totally just had to run after my 18 month who was IN my daughter's room playing with her Barbie dolls (sorry Jay) while she was sleeping IN bed. He's now buckled into his high chair so that I can finish up my thoughts. Yes--I am that Mommy. Who isn't at some time???
Monday, November 5, 2012
WHAT a day.
This weekend has been one that will truly be remembered forever.
From the NO hot water for almost 48 hours to the kids' Baptism to my annoying kidney stone. Ups, downs, and stillness. It's crazy. But I can honestly say that I am thankful for so many reasons.
The hot water bit the big one. Fortunately, my husband's parents live close. So we were able to go shower at their house before the kids' baptism and have enough time to get ready (thank-you time change!!). I am sure glad that I didn't have to be smelly with crazy hair in front of the whole church. I'm sure Jay is thankful as well:o)
Mallory and Clayton's Baptism was emotional for me. Maybe someday I will go into great detail the events that have led up to this day, but right is not the time. So, just know that we have prayed, waited, and wanted this day for so long. We feel extremely blessed to have finally had them baptised AND that so many family and friends attended to support them and us. I cherish the ALL-day look of happiness and excitement in Mal's eyes. Her knowing what her baptism meant and her loving the idea, made the day even better. Thank-you God for bringing us to this spot, together.
UGH. My kidney stone. I had been experiencing pain in the morning, which brought me to tears. But pushed it off, with advil and the thought that "DUDE, we are finally getting our kids baptised, I can't deal with the pain now." As our crowd of house guests started leaving, it came back full force which Jay was able to rush me to the ER. I am thankful for my parents who were there and took control of the house and kids. I am thankful for my husband who sat beside me and made me laugh (even when I was hysterically crying in pain).
And by-golly-gee, I am thankful AGAIN for our hot water being out and the PUMP breaking on our wood stove (after the hot water was fixed!!). Because it meant that my husband was home and around trying to get it figured out all day today. Which means that in my pain and fogginess (due to meds), he was there when I needed him.
Which leads me to everything happens for a reason. In the situation, you really don't have a clue at why God is putting so much on you. Our frustrations and awe were high. But our roll-off-the-back attitude, our humor in the situations, our family and friend's support and love, and each other made the weekend bearable and memorable. A weekend that we'll remember always.
Top 10 for the week:
10. Free 8x10 collage. Exactly what it says. So simple, yet so cool. I received an email from Walgreens for a free collage. It was awesome. I just put in 20 pictures, and they scrambled them into a collage. Yes! I will take FREE.
9. New Playroom. Friday this brilliant idea came into my head to change our sunroom into a playroom. All by myself, just before dinner, with both kids. It was great chaos. But I LOVE it. Hello adult living room with no toys. And hello play room that has doors that I can close:o) The kids love it too. We had dinner in there that night. Which was a huge hit. Can't wait to really have it organized (there is still our extra fridge in there that needs to come out). Now I just need play dates!!
8. Fellow Readers. It amazes me. Sometimes I feel like no one reads my blogs because I don't get any responses. And then other times people message or call me, telling me how much they can relate to something I've written about. I love those moments. I mean, the blog is really for me--to write down my thoughts, stories--a record of "the year." But I enjoy the feedback. And knowing that I'm not just typing into space.
7. Sibling Love. Each week I am more and more in awe of how much my children love each other. A few days ago while driving in the car, I looked back in the rearview mirror and I saw them holding hands. Seriously. I would not make that up. They were holding hands. For NO reason. Then there was this time this week when I was disciplining Mal and Clayton came up and "yelled" at me and pushed me out of the way. He was defending his sister in his own way. Little brother love. He would seriously do anything for her.
6. Doggie Love. I have to admit that I started a new post on our dog, Tipper. But due to the later events of the weekend, I switched topics. Let's just say that I loved our dog this week and she LOVED it back. I'll explain later.
5. Communication Clayton. When I was in the kitchen, he ran up to me, pulled at his pants, and pointed to the bathroom! He didn't verbally tell me, but his nonverbal cues told me he needed to use the bathroom. I am still confused at how my 18 month old can use the potty but can't talk. Any suggestions or ideas??? I'm clueless.
4. Flat Tire. As if this past Sunday wasn't enough, Thursday I had a flat tire on my way to work out at Zumba. Royally bummed, but thankful that my hubby came to my rescue. Our kids were great in the situation and I was able to share cupcakes with them. And THEN I went to Walgreens to pick up my free collage. Hey--I needed to have my "night-out." I know, I'm pathetic at times. You do what you gotta do. (Oh--and I also ran into the garage frame with our car that afternoon. We have had a doosy of a week!!).
3. Mal's Halloween Party. So fun. So glad I was able to attend and help out. She was so excited and adorable. I loved watching her be with her friends and interact with her teacher. I still am amazed at how much she learns from preschool! Oh--and Thank-you to Nana for staying home with the Clayster! I can't even imagine how chaotic it would have been with him there. I think he enjoyed his Nana time as well:o)
2. Halloween Night. Cold, rainy, yucky weather. But the kids had fun anyways. Mal was in good spirits as well as Clay (he always is anyways). Mal's hair turned out great--just like a princess crown and Clay was obsessed with big pot of candy at Grandma and Grandpa Newell's. Overall, it was fun and BOTH kids were good sports with the crazy weather.
1. Baptism. Almost four years later, and BOTH of our kids are baptised. At the same time. Not exactly what I thought it would be like, but not everything always turns out the way you thought it would. We are blessed. A warm, supportive church. Love from family and friends. And love and blessings from God. What else could you really ask for?
It's Monday already.
Kids are in bed and I'm ready to start veggin' out on the couch.
Have a great rest of the week!!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. By the way, IF I were still teaching, I would have had parent-teacher conferences tonight. With a kidney stone?!?!?! Gosh--I'm thankful I'm not teaching right now too!!!
From the NO hot water for almost 48 hours to the kids' Baptism to my annoying kidney stone. Ups, downs, and stillness. It's crazy. But I can honestly say that I am thankful for so many reasons.
The hot water bit the big one. Fortunately, my husband's parents live close. So we were able to go shower at their house before the kids' baptism and have enough time to get ready (thank-you time change!!). I am sure glad that I didn't have to be smelly with crazy hair in front of the whole church. I'm sure Jay is thankful as well:o)
Mallory and Clayton's Baptism was emotional for me. Maybe someday I will go into great detail the events that have led up to this day, but right is not the time. So, just know that we have prayed, waited, and wanted this day for so long. We feel extremely blessed to have finally had them baptised AND that so many family and friends attended to support them and us. I cherish the ALL-day look of happiness and excitement in Mal's eyes. Her knowing what her baptism meant and her loving the idea, made the day even better. Thank-you God for bringing us to this spot, together.
UGH. My kidney stone. I had been experiencing pain in the morning, which brought me to tears. But pushed it off, with advil and the thought that "DUDE, we are finally getting our kids baptised, I can't deal with the pain now." As our crowd of house guests started leaving, it came back full force which Jay was able to rush me to the ER. I am thankful for my parents who were there and took control of the house and kids. I am thankful for my husband who sat beside me and made me laugh (even when I was hysterically crying in pain).
And by-golly-gee, I am thankful AGAIN for our hot water being out and the PUMP breaking on our wood stove (after the hot water was fixed!!). Because it meant that my husband was home and around trying to get it figured out all day today. Which means that in my pain and fogginess (due to meds), he was there when I needed him.
Which leads me to everything happens for a reason. In the situation, you really don't have a clue at why God is putting so much on you. Our frustrations and awe were high. But our roll-off-the-back attitude, our humor in the situations, our family and friend's support and love, and each other made the weekend bearable and memorable. A weekend that we'll remember always.
Top 10 for the week:
10. Free 8x10 collage. Exactly what it says. So simple, yet so cool. I received an email from Walgreens for a free collage. It was awesome. I just put in 20 pictures, and they scrambled them into a collage. Yes! I will take FREE.
9. New Playroom. Friday this brilliant idea came into my head to change our sunroom into a playroom. All by myself, just before dinner, with both kids. It was great chaos. But I LOVE it. Hello adult living room with no toys. And hello play room that has doors that I can close:o) The kids love it too. We had dinner in there that night. Which was a huge hit. Can't wait to really have it organized (there is still our extra fridge in there that needs to come out). Now I just need play dates!!
8. Fellow Readers. It amazes me. Sometimes I feel like no one reads my blogs because I don't get any responses. And then other times people message or call me, telling me how much they can relate to something I've written about. I love those moments. I mean, the blog is really for me--to write down my thoughts, stories--a record of "the year." But I enjoy the feedback. And knowing that I'm not just typing into space.
7. Sibling Love. Each week I am more and more in awe of how much my children love each other. A few days ago while driving in the car, I looked back in the rearview mirror and I saw them holding hands. Seriously. I would not make that up. They were holding hands. For NO reason. Then there was this time this week when I was disciplining Mal and Clayton came up and "yelled" at me and pushed me out of the way. He was defending his sister in his own way. Little brother love. He would seriously do anything for her.
6. Doggie Love. I have to admit that I started a new post on our dog, Tipper. But due to the later events of the weekend, I switched topics. Let's just say that I loved our dog this week and she LOVED it back. I'll explain later.
5. Communication Clayton. When I was in the kitchen, he ran up to me, pulled at his pants, and pointed to the bathroom! He didn't verbally tell me, but his nonverbal cues told me he needed to use the bathroom. I am still confused at how my 18 month old can use the potty but can't talk. Any suggestions or ideas??? I'm clueless.
4. Flat Tire. As if this past Sunday wasn't enough, Thursday I had a flat tire on my way to work out at Zumba. Royally bummed, but thankful that my hubby came to my rescue. Our kids were great in the situation and I was able to share cupcakes with them. And THEN I went to Walgreens to pick up my free collage. Hey--I needed to have my "night-out." I know, I'm pathetic at times. You do what you gotta do. (Oh--and I also ran into the garage frame with our car that afternoon. We have had a doosy of a week!!).
3. Mal's Halloween Party. So fun. So glad I was able to attend and help out. She was so excited and adorable. I loved watching her be with her friends and interact with her teacher. I still am amazed at how much she learns from preschool! Oh--and Thank-you to Nana for staying home with the Clayster! I can't even imagine how chaotic it would have been with him there. I think he enjoyed his Nana time as well:o)
2. Halloween Night. Cold, rainy, yucky weather. But the kids had fun anyways. Mal was in good spirits as well as Clay (he always is anyways). Mal's hair turned out great--just like a princess crown and Clay was obsessed with big pot of candy at Grandma and Grandpa Newell's. Overall, it was fun and BOTH kids were good sports with the crazy weather.
1. Baptism. Almost four years later, and BOTH of our kids are baptised. At the same time. Not exactly what I thought it would be like, but not everything always turns out the way you thought it would. We are blessed. A warm, supportive church. Love from family and friends. And love and blessings from God. What else could you really ask for?
It's Monday already.
Kids are in bed and I'm ready to start veggin' out on the couch.
Have a great rest of the week!!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. By the way, IF I were still teaching, I would have had parent-teacher conferences tonight. With a kidney stone?!?!?! Gosh--I'm thankful I'm not teaching right now too!!!
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