It Fits

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.