No HUGE thoughts this week. Just surviving the holiday cheer/chaos:o)
Next week will be my recap of 2013.
Top 10 for the Week:
(December 23rd, 2013)
10. Car Rides with CLAY. He is a bear in the car. Screaming, yelling, whatever he can do. It's SO hard to be in the car with him. I'm hoping he grows out of this SOON. Anyone else have this issue?
9. Crazy KIDS. Holidays are rough on them. We've been in the car a lot. And with extended family. Here and there. Too much. Makes crazy kids. Is it sad to say I'm ready for routine again?
8. Tense. I've been a bit tense lately. Maybe grumpy would be a better word. I'm off. Reasons for this? Stuck inside? Kids over holidays? I'm over holidays? No chiropractor for the last few weeks? No night out the last few weeks? Not sure. But I'm over it. And I KNOW this directly effects my OWN children's mood. SO. I'M. DONE.
7. Christmas Eve. Since I was born, my family has always gone to my Grandma Engelhardt's for Chirstmas Eve (The year I was preggers with Mal we didn't go). This year, we stayed home. It was SO strange. I had mixed emotions. Like I was missing something. But starting something new too. Jay cooked dinner--which we've decided will be an annual thing. We watched a Christmas movie and then went to church. It was great. I'm excited to be starting this new tradition with our little family. And the kids were GREAT at church--especially Clay. Which makes me believe he CAN be good in the car.
6. Crochet. Finished an infinity scarf and now onto my next project--a blanket for Mal. My biggest project yet!:o)
5. Basement Renovation. Oh how I LOATHE renovations. The beginning and middle are always the worst! We are about in the end of the middle. It has been a long few weeks...but our basement is coming along and becoming more functional for our family! Only a few more big things and we will be done with this project and onto the next!
4. Holiday Party (Extended Engelhardt's). We've always done our Christmas party on Christmas Eve, but this year the whole family decided to move it to the weekend after Christmas. It was bliss. Loved having our extra time at home and not feeling so rushed to be anywhere. Kids were great (except for the car ride!). Enjoyed seeing my aunts, uncles, and cousins. Even if the place we had it at was only 57 degrees inside (heat was broken)!!! A good time by all. And I especially LOVE seeing my kids bond/interact with my extended family. Our kids are NOT shy. At all.
3. Clayisms. He PEED in his car seat on our way to my grandma's. Didn't know this until we stopped. Could have been why he was SO crazy on the way there. And I'm sure he peed out of his diaper because I kept giving him more juice/water because I thought he wanted more. Changed him, a bag down on the seat, and we called it good. One day this week I worked on his speech cards just before nap. Too bad the poor kid had hiccups. Try having a 2 year old who has a speech delay, say words to you WITH hiccups. It was a train wreck. We've also been giving him gum--suggested by his speech therapist to help strengthen his jaw muscles. He's so cute about it. He calls it yum yum. And he LOVES it. I'm shocked--but the two year old does NOT swallow it! He's so smart like that--of course. Now if we could only get him to potty train....
2. Malloryisms. Biggest thing this week for Mal was a new booster seat for her. Do to the pee--and just needing to get her a booster seat--we chose to buy one. She'll be five in just a few short weeks (I'm crying now). She was SO pumped about this. Nonstop talk for 24 hours. And then nonstop talk about it while she was IN it. So proud of herself. "This is what happens when you turn five." Ugh. Five. Crazy. And she is smarter than me. We were outdoors enjoying the snow and decided to build a snow tunnel through one of our snowbanks. Here I am using a Frisbee and my hands to try and dig one out. When I noticed Miss Smartypants Mallory using her feet and legs. Oh man--it was SO much easier! Yes folks, she's five and already smarter than me. Yikes.
1. Christmas. Christmas morning was awesome! Mal woke up around 7:00 and we ended up waking Clay up to join us. He wasn't too happy about that--even when he saw the presents. I have the funniest picture of him. He was so irritated. After opening presents, kids enjoyed some homemade cinnamon rolls (thanks Grandma Newell!) and homemade hot chocolate (thanks Daddy!). We all played until 11:00. The TV was not on at all. Which is SO unusual:o) We are TV junkies in the morning. FOUR hours straight of playing with new toys. After lunch we headed over to Jay's parents for his extended family gathering. Kids were great again! And SO tired. Clay ended up falling asleep on there couch at 6:00PM. It was cute. Overall, a great Christmas in our house. Lots of new and happy memories to add to our scrapbooks. We have a lot to be thankful for this year.
Hope you all had a great Christmas!
And enjoy your New Year's tonight!~
Love to you all.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Thursday, December 26, 2013
So Long Christmas
I hate to admit this.*
But...
I just put ALL our Christmas decorations away.
ALL OF THEM.
(Except for the actual ornament less tree--I need Jay's help on that one).
I couldn't stand it anymore.
The broken decorations.
Stuff ALL over.
It was driving me crazy.
And we have a birthday party to plan in a few weeks.
So, I took care of it today.
It was a mad house.
With both kids, cat, dog, Xmas toys.
But as I sit here and type,
Viewing my surroundings...I feel calm.
Collected. Accomplished. Peaceful.
Although the toy situation is out of hand.
I'm waiting to purge, donate, sell, later next week.
After our two more Christmas'.
*Written on December 26th, 2013.
Top 10 for the (LAST) week:
10. Address Book Renew. It needed to be done. I had addresses in my address book from my freshman year of college. It was bad. People that I hadn't communicated with in YEARS. I mentioned getting a new one to my mom--and low and behold she had an extra package of replacement address cards! Cause everyone just has a random extra package like that, right?!?! Anyways, in one sitting, finished it. Little things like this make me smile:o)
9. Stomach Issues Back. This week my stomach issues came back a little. Had a little blood work done--everything checked out fine. Must have been something I ate during this splurge of holiday eating. Again, made me appreciate where I'm usually at now.
8. Vacuum Died. Like HUGE. Smoke, spark, black on plug-in. It was crazy. Have never seen anything like that before. I have to admit I was a bit scared. Jay came to the rescue (like he always does in situations like that--what would I do without him?!?!). And my MIL came to the rescue too:o) She's letting us borrow her old one until we finally buy one.
7. After School Snow. A few times this week I made sure Clayton was in his snow gear when I picked up Mal so they could both enjoy some outdoor weather after her school got out. It's great seeing the kids enjoy the colder temperatures. And it's great exercise (also makes them sleep better).
6. Sew Much Fun. Had a chance to sew a bit more this week. It. Was. Awesome. Wish I could do that every week.
5. Holiday Prep. Crazy how much it takes to prep for the holidays. You forget this until you are amongst the chaos and frets of getting it ALL done. My list is/was a mile long. Thankfully, festivities were spread out enough that I could worry about a few things at a time. And actually take my time.
4. Homemade Gifts. There is something SO great about making something for someone. I made a lot of our Christmas gifts this year. And I had PURE joy in making and giving them to our special people in our lives. I need to remember this next year.
3. Clayisms. Clay is obsessed with our Xmas train. So much we ended up putting it up for most of the holiday season. This week he started saying Mallory--in the most adorable voice ever. I can't wait to really be able to listen to his words and sentences in his cute little voice. The screaming is getting OLD. And driving us crazy. On the way home from my parents' this past weekend, Clayton handed be a booger. YES. A booger. And told me it was one. SO I guess, I should have known better than to take it. But I did.
2. Malloryisms. A few of Mal's sayings:
"Daddy doesn't know the words to doctor." When I told her I was leaving and that Daddy could play doctor with her. Sometimes I am SO make believed out:o)
"Cat's aren't fun to play with." After chasing Leo around the house, and trying to get him to sit with her. We had a whole discussion on the difference between cats and dogs. She still loves Leo.
"Come here you little pistol." Talking to a grape that was rolling away from her. I think she gets this from MY dad. Hilarious.
1. Christmas with the Engelhardt's. Great time! It was so much fun to just hang out with my family for a weekend. Good food, games, drinks, play, presents, shopping, AND extra space!!! My parents just finished up a HUGE renovation of their house. Giving them MORE bedrooms and bathrooms. It made a huge difference in all of us staying there. Kids could run around and truly be kids without getting into too much:o) Kids played awesome together. Boy cousins were a riot together! Mal got a sewing machine:o) Clay got some big trucks. And Jay and I got pots and pans (the highlight of the weekend!! We came home and that was the FIRST thing we washed and put away! Ha! Times have changed!). Just the beginning of this holiday season...
I'm late.
SUPER late.
And I've got another one to do after this:o)
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
But...
I just put ALL our Christmas decorations away.
ALL OF THEM.
(Except for the actual ornament less tree--I need Jay's help on that one).
I couldn't stand it anymore.
The broken decorations.
Stuff ALL over.
It was driving me crazy.
And we have a birthday party to plan in a few weeks.
So, I took care of it today.
It was a mad house.
With both kids, cat, dog, Xmas toys.
But as I sit here and type,
Viewing my surroundings...I feel calm.
Collected. Accomplished. Peaceful.
Although the toy situation is out of hand.
I'm waiting to purge, donate, sell, later next week.
After our two more Christmas'.
*Written on December 26th, 2013.
Top 10 for the (LAST) week:
10. Address Book Renew. It needed to be done. I had addresses in my address book from my freshman year of college. It was bad. People that I hadn't communicated with in YEARS. I mentioned getting a new one to my mom--and low and behold she had an extra package of replacement address cards! Cause everyone just has a random extra package like that, right?!?! Anyways, in one sitting, finished it. Little things like this make me smile:o)
9. Stomach Issues Back. This week my stomach issues came back a little. Had a little blood work done--everything checked out fine. Must have been something I ate during this splurge of holiday eating. Again, made me appreciate where I'm usually at now.
8. Vacuum Died. Like HUGE. Smoke, spark, black on plug-in. It was crazy. Have never seen anything like that before. I have to admit I was a bit scared. Jay came to the rescue (like he always does in situations like that--what would I do without him?!?!). And my MIL came to the rescue too:o) She's letting us borrow her old one until we finally buy one.
7. After School Snow. A few times this week I made sure Clayton was in his snow gear when I picked up Mal so they could both enjoy some outdoor weather after her school got out. It's great seeing the kids enjoy the colder temperatures. And it's great exercise (also makes them sleep better).
6. Sew Much Fun. Had a chance to sew a bit more this week. It. Was. Awesome. Wish I could do that every week.
5. Holiday Prep. Crazy how much it takes to prep for the holidays. You forget this until you are amongst the chaos and frets of getting it ALL done. My list is/was a mile long. Thankfully, festivities were spread out enough that I could worry about a few things at a time. And actually take my time.
4. Homemade Gifts. There is something SO great about making something for someone. I made a lot of our Christmas gifts this year. And I had PURE joy in making and giving them to our special people in our lives. I need to remember this next year.
3. Clayisms. Clay is obsessed with our Xmas train. So much we ended up putting it up for most of the holiday season. This week he started saying Mallory--in the most adorable voice ever. I can't wait to really be able to listen to his words and sentences in his cute little voice. The screaming is getting OLD. And driving us crazy. On the way home from my parents' this past weekend, Clayton handed be a booger. YES. A booger. And told me it was one. SO I guess, I should have known better than to take it. But I did.
2. Malloryisms. A few of Mal's sayings:
"Daddy doesn't know the words to doctor." When I told her I was leaving and that Daddy could play doctor with her. Sometimes I am SO make believed out:o)
"Cat's aren't fun to play with." After chasing Leo around the house, and trying to get him to sit with her. We had a whole discussion on the difference between cats and dogs. She still loves Leo.
"Come here you little pistol." Talking to a grape that was rolling away from her. I think she gets this from MY dad. Hilarious.
1. Christmas with the Engelhardt's. Great time! It was so much fun to just hang out with my family for a weekend. Good food, games, drinks, play, presents, shopping, AND extra space!!! My parents just finished up a HUGE renovation of their house. Giving them MORE bedrooms and bathrooms. It made a huge difference in all of us staying there. Kids could run around and truly be kids without getting into too much:o) Kids played awesome together. Boy cousins were a riot together! Mal got a sewing machine:o) Clay got some big trucks. And Jay and I got pots and pans (the highlight of the weekend!! We came home and that was the FIRST thing we washed and put away! Ha! Times have changed!). Just the beginning of this holiday season...
I'm late.
SUPER late.
And I've got another one to do after this:o)
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Monday, December 16, 2013
SO Not Ready
I realized when I took this gig that there would be a day that it would end. I thought I'd have at least four years home with the kids and then we would go from there.
I didn't realize how much I would enjoy being home with them. How much it would change me. And them. For the better.
I tear up thinking about Mal going into kindergarten next year. What will our day be like without her with us? I think it will possibly be harder on me, than her.
Well, today, it was mentioned that Clay next year could possibly be in the preschool program located in the same building as his speech. The program is five days a week for almost 3 hours.
I cried.
I'm SO not ready for this.
I didn't realize how attached I'd be to them.
How just in a 18 months, I'd feel this way.
Roles and lives change so quickly.
Top 10 for the Week:
12-9-13
10. No Power. One day this past week we were without power two separate times (one was just over an hour). Jay got his chance to try out the generator. Enough said. He was elated. Like a little kid.
9. Stuck. So, our new van is WAY different driving in snow than our Trail Blazer. A bit scary. A few times this past week I struggled to get out of our steep driveway. In fact, one day I actually got stuck on my way to pick up Mal. Several scoops of salt and shovels of snow and I made it out. I called on my handsome husband to help me out. Of course, when he came, I was in the last 2 feet of the steep hill. He jumped in and drove it the rest of the way up. 95% done. Yeah, it was me. All me.
8. Early Riser. I was up early one day this week. I had like 5 things accomplished before anyone was up in the house. It was bliss. Why don't I do this??? Here's to trying harder to be an early bird.
7. Brussel Sprouts. LOVE them. Didn't know this until Thanksgiving of this year. Seriously. I could eat them every week. Delicious. How have I gone 35 years without having one?!?!
6. Damaged. Our holiday decorations are getting ruined by our kids (mainly the littlest one). Makes me sad/angry/frustrated. Let's just say that I have a permanent pile of "please fix me" pieces on the counter.
5. Xmas Program. Mal had her Xmas program this week. SO adorable. She had to wear pajamas and pretend she was sleeping for part of it. I love seeing her in this kind of environment. She's becoming quite the performer:o) Clay was a gem! He was SO good throughout the whole program. Very captivated by the performance. Stuck by my side the whole time I was moving around trying to get the perfect shot of Mal.
4. Holiday Stuff. We had quite the packed holiday weekend. Friday night we went sledding behind Jay's Grandpa's house. The kids were thrilled and had such a great time! I did as well! And forgot how much of an exercise sledding can be! We also went and saw Santa in the mall. Clay was a bit skeptical at first--not wanting to go near him--and then he warmed up. Mal was her usual shy but excited self. Her I-love-you-but-I'm-going-to-be-shy smile. Both took a great picture with him. After Santa we went and got our tree. Snowing, cold, cranky kids. We picked one that he had already cut down. But it was perfect. Fits nicely in our living room. The kids were ready to be home:o) We ended up decorating it on Sunday night. Clay was into it at first but then realized that Jay wasn't going to lift him up for every ornament. He turned quickly into a not so excited boy. Mal adored it all....every ornament was "so cute" and she loved everything about it. I love having the smell and light from it. A nice addition to our living room.
3. Clayisms. Speech was cancelled this past week. He was upset about it--making a frown face when I told him. He seemed off most of the week. Cranky, not talking as much, screaming lots. A very frustrating week. Spoke again to the speech therapist today. We are looking into getting him more help with another speech therapist as well as having his hearing thoroughly checked. She thinks it has something to do with his motor development (not being able to process what he's thinking and saying). Knowing what the right thing is to do for your child is hard. He's still his happy, personable, loving self. I don't want that being taken away from him--out of frustration of not being able to communicate OR from working him too hard. I know I write about this a lot...but it's always on my mind and heart. And this week was rough.
2. Malloryisms. Oh Mallory. A few of her funny sayings: "Ava told me that gummy bears were made out of bones." I put two health food store (made out of agave nectar) in her snack and she was told by another little girl at school this. Cracks me up. She was concerned--who wouldn't be?!?! "MOM! I would poop on the floor--would you like that?!?!" It seems, I wasn't walking FAST enough to help her unbutton her pants. And of course I wouldn't like it if she pooped on the floor. Duh?!?! Only the beginning people. Help me. She also believes that I can fix and make anything when it comes to sewing or crafting. SO cute. But she's putting the pressure on me. "Oh Daddy. Mom can make that!" I'm ready to start saying--"Oh Mallory, you can make that!" And I think she's ready too. But still a little too young to start using her own sewing machine.
1. Crazy Sunday. LOTS was done Sunday. Chaotic. Yes. Stressful. Yes. Jay was able to get the frame up for our huge closet in our laundry room. The kids and I wrapped presents, made homemade play do ornaments, got out the rest of the Christmas stuff, and did our usual thing. The day flew by! And by the end of it--the kids were ready for bed!
IT's close!
Last week of school for Mal!
Excited to have her home for a few weeks--
where we can stay in our pajamas for a day!
Hope you all have a great last week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
I didn't realize how much I would enjoy being home with them. How much it would change me. And them. For the better.
I tear up thinking about Mal going into kindergarten next year. What will our day be like without her with us? I think it will possibly be harder on me, than her.
Well, today, it was mentioned that Clay next year could possibly be in the preschool program located in the same building as his speech. The program is five days a week for almost 3 hours.
I cried.
I'm SO not ready for this.
I didn't realize how attached I'd be to them.
How just in a 18 months, I'd feel this way.
Roles and lives change so quickly.
Top 10 for the Week:
12-9-13
10. No Power. One day this past week we were without power two separate times (one was just over an hour). Jay got his chance to try out the generator. Enough said. He was elated. Like a little kid.
9. Stuck. So, our new van is WAY different driving in snow than our Trail Blazer. A bit scary. A few times this past week I struggled to get out of our steep driveway. In fact, one day I actually got stuck on my way to pick up Mal. Several scoops of salt and shovels of snow and I made it out. I called on my handsome husband to help me out. Of course, when he came, I was in the last 2 feet of the steep hill. He jumped in and drove it the rest of the way up. 95% done. Yeah, it was me. All me.
8. Early Riser. I was up early one day this week. I had like 5 things accomplished before anyone was up in the house. It was bliss. Why don't I do this??? Here's to trying harder to be an early bird.
7. Brussel Sprouts. LOVE them. Didn't know this until Thanksgiving of this year. Seriously. I could eat them every week. Delicious. How have I gone 35 years without having one?!?!
6. Damaged. Our holiday decorations are getting ruined by our kids (mainly the littlest one). Makes me sad/angry/frustrated. Let's just say that I have a permanent pile of "please fix me" pieces on the counter.
5. Xmas Program. Mal had her Xmas program this week. SO adorable. She had to wear pajamas and pretend she was sleeping for part of it. I love seeing her in this kind of environment. She's becoming quite the performer:o) Clay was a gem! He was SO good throughout the whole program. Very captivated by the performance. Stuck by my side the whole time I was moving around trying to get the perfect shot of Mal.
4. Holiday Stuff. We had quite the packed holiday weekend. Friday night we went sledding behind Jay's Grandpa's house. The kids were thrilled and had such a great time! I did as well! And forgot how much of an exercise sledding can be! We also went and saw Santa in the mall. Clay was a bit skeptical at first--not wanting to go near him--and then he warmed up. Mal was her usual shy but excited self. Her I-love-you-but-I'm-going-to-be-shy smile. Both took a great picture with him. After Santa we went and got our tree. Snowing, cold, cranky kids. We picked one that he had already cut down. But it was perfect. Fits nicely in our living room. The kids were ready to be home:o) We ended up decorating it on Sunday night. Clay was into it at first but then realized that Jay wasn't going to lift him up for every ornament. He turned quickly into a not so excited boy. Mal adored it all....every ornament was "so cute" and she loved everything about it. I love having the smell and light from it. A nice addition to our living room.
3. Clayisms. Speech was cancelled this past week. He was upset about it--making a frown face when I told him. He seemed off most of the week. Cranky, not talking as much, screaming lots. A very frustrating week. Spoke again to the speech therapist today. We are looking into getting him more help with another speech therapist as well as having his hearing thoroughly checked. She thinks it has something to do with his motor development (not being able to process what he's thinking and saying). Knowing what the right thing is to do for your child is hard. He's still his happy, personable, loving self. I don't want that being taken away from him--out of frustration of not being able to communicate OR from working him too hard. I know I write about this a lot...but it's always on my mind and heart. And this week was rough.
2. Malloryisms. Oh Mallory. A few of her funny sayings: "Ava told me that gummy bears were made out of bones." I put two health food store (made out of agave nectar) in her snack and she was told by another little girl at school this. Cracks me up. She was concerned--who wouldn't be?!?! "MOM! I would poop on the floor--would you like that?!?!" It seems, I wasn't walking FAST enough to help her unbutton her pants. And of course I wouldn't like it if she pooped on the floor. Duh?!?! Only the beginning people. Help me. She also believes that I can fix and make anything when it comes to sewing or crafting. SO cute. But she's putting the pressure on me. "Oh Daddy. Mom can make that!" I'm ready to start saying--"Oh Mallory, you can make that!" And I think she's ready too. But still a little too young to start using her own sewing machine.
1. Crazy Sunday. LOTS was done Sunday. Chaotic. Yes. Stressful. Yes. Jay was able to get the frame up for our huge closet in our laundry room. The kids and I wrapped presents, made homemade play do ornaments, got out the rest of the Christmas stuff, and did our usual thing. The day flew by! And by the end of it--the kids were ready for bed!
IT's close!
Last week of school for Mal!
Excited to have her home for a few weeks--
where we can stay in our pajamas for a day!
Hope you all have a great last week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Making the Best of It
It's so strange for me to think of my life any other way. It's been about 1 1/2 years since I've "retired" from outside-of-the-home work and I can honestly say I'm STILL loving it.
Of course there are days when I would give anything to trade places with my husband*. To just go to work for a few hours to get away from our little ones, from the chaos. To recoup. To be in silence. To be me.
But then there are times like today. Where it's freezing outside, so we head to Bounce Land in Kalamazoo for a few hours. IF I was working, I wouldn't have been able to do so. Wouldn't have been able to enjoy the "just us" moment. The kids had a blast. And so did I. Running, laughing, sliding, just enjoying being out and about.
And I look at them, and see how big they are already. I mean, Clayton can climb up the biggest slide WITHOUT me. He's that big now. And I realize my time at home, WITH them, is short. But SO needed for both parties involved. They need me. And I need them.
And unfortunately/fortunately I, Beth Newell, could not give them what I give them now, when I was working. It wasn't in ME. It makes me nervous to think about going back and being a mother/teacher again. It's draining. And honestly, I'm a different mother when I am a teacher. I'm hoping it will come easier once they are older. But thank God, I don't have to think about that right now.
Until then, I'm enjoying every blessed (and chaotic) moment I get with my little ones. Because next year, my baby girl will be in Kindergarten. And it breaks my heart to think that I won't be able to hang with her the majority of the day. I've got NINE months people. And we are for sure making the best of it!
*Ask him. Seriously. There have been a few days that I've asked as he was saying goodbye to me.
Top 10 for the Week:
10. Me Time. Didn't get out of the house this week by myself. Felt it. Needed it. Hopefully this week. And my 30 minute haircut doesn't count.
9. Crockpot Lid. So the handle of my crock pot lid broke. It was crock pot Monday and I was annoyed. My dear SIL recommended calling the company to see if they would replace it for free--AND they DID! I had it at my house by the weekend! I need to be more ambitious in calling companies. Here's to calling more and buying less! (My pork tenderloin smells delicious now).
8. Sewing/Crocheting. Finished some projects this week. I get such satisfaction from doing this. Seriously. So glad I found my niche.
7. Enough! My kids bicker. And I can only take so much. I ushered them to their rooms for 20 minutes, while I finished dinner. And it was bliss. Why have I not thought of this before?!?!
6. Chamber Dinner. The Christmas Chamber Dinner was this past Monday. I had a little TOO much fun if you know what I mean. I was suffering a bit on Tuesday. Makes me feel old. But also makes me glad I only do this once or twice a year:o)
5. Paw Paw Parade. It. Was. Freezing. SO COLD. But Mal enjoyed walking, passing out candy, and being a big girl. With her mom. It was well worth the cold.
4. Dowagiac Parade. The expressions on the kids' faces were priceless. Clay couldn't stop making crazy high pitch noises and Mal couldn't stop pointing out every dancer, firetruck, or Santa. They are at the perfect age right now--eating up every sound, vision, and experience.
3. Clayisms. I was walking past our nativity scene on Friday and noticed three rocks placed in a line on the manger. That's Sir Clayton. He also likes to put them in his pockets. And yes, he can find them anywhere--even in the winter. Speech is still going well. He's trying harder--really wanting to say words and sounds. It is amazing to me how much he understands. Makes me think I need to start watching what I say around him. He plays SO well independently. Mal not-so-much (what rest time?). I wonder if this is the second child syndrome. He's so entertained by his trains, cars, and anything else I give him. I'm truly shocked. And still working on Mal.
2. Malloryisms. Oh Mallory. Seems she had a "lock-up" (according to Mal) at school this week. You know a lock down. She came home all concerned and of course we talked about it. It breaks my heart I have to have these conversations with my 4 year old. But at least she's willing to share. Overheard Mal telling Clay that they should snuggle together on the couch while watching a show. They both were in smiles, giggling, covered in blankets, hunched over towards each other. Most adorable kid sight ever. Mal and I spent some sewing time together while Clayton had his nap. We used a starter kit and made a kitty cat and heart. She was singing the majority of the time--to lyrics that had to deal with our sewing. This totally reminded me up her Daddy. Two other quick quotes: M--"Alexis has two boyfriends." Me--"What?!?!" Mal--"Alexis has two boyfriends." Me--"You can't have a boyfriend until you are 16." Mal--"Okay Mommy." She's 4 people. FOUR. This weekend was a bit of chaos for us with the laundry room. We tried to do the BIG things when the kids were sleeping...but of course some things had to be done when the kids were awake. During the process of moving the big freezer, Mal ran into the room and told us Clay was climbing on top of the boxes (we have TONS). I told Mal, "Well, tell him not to nicely." So she ran into the room and we heard her say politely, "Clayton not to." Jay and I looked at each other and cracked up. We couldn't stop! LOVE the 4 year old literal mind. And the simplicity.
1. Laundry Room. Is on it's way!! We have painted walls (goodbye ugly bright blue, hello grey) and NEW flooring! It looks great and I feel like we have somewhat organized chaos. Now for some new closets and the rest of the unorganized chaos will be taken care of for good!
Well, here's to another week closer to Christmas!
Can't wait for the holiday!
Have a great week!
Until next,
Mrs. Newell
Of course there are days when I would give anything to trade places with my husband*. To just go to work for a few hours to get away from our little ones, from the chaos. To recoup. To be in silence. To be me.
But then there are times like today. Where it's freezing outside, so we head to Bounce Land in Kalamazoo for a few hours. IF I was working, I wouldn't have been able to do so. Wouldn't have been able to enjoy the "just us" moment. The kids had a blast. And so did I. Running, laughing, sliding, just enjoying being out and about.
And I look at them, and see how big they are already. I mean, Clayton can climb up the biggest slide WITHOUT me. He's that big now. And I realize my time at home, WITH them, is short. But SO needed for both parties involved. They need me. And I need them.
And unfortunately/fortunately I, Beth Newell, could not give them what I give them now, when I was working. It wasn't in ME. It makes me nervous to think about going back and being a mother/teacher again. It's draining. And honestly, I'm a different mother when I am a teacher. I'm hoping it will come easier once they are older. But thank God, I don't have to think about that right now.
Until then, I'm enjoying every blessed (and chaotic) moment I get with my little ones. Because next year, my baby girl will be in Kindergarten. And it breaks my heart to think that I won't be able to hang with her the majority of the day. I've got NINE months people. And we are for sure making the best of it!
*Ask him. Seriously. There have been a few days that I've asked as he was saying goodbye to me.
Top 10 for the Week:
10. Me Time. Didn't get out of the house this week by myself. Felt it. Needed it. Hopefully this week. And my 30 minute haircut doesn't count.
9. Crockpot Lid. So the handle of my crock pot lid broke. It was crock pot Monday and I was annoyed. My dear SIL recommended calling the company to see if they would replace it for free--AND they DID! I had it at my house by the weekend! I need to be more ambitious in calling companies. Here's to calling more and buying less! (My pork tenderloin smells delicious now).
8. Sewing/Crocheting. Finished some projects this week. I get such satisfaction from doing this. Seriously. So glad I found my niche.
7. Enough! My kids bicker. And I can only take so much. I ushered them to their rooms for 20 minutes, while I finished dinner. And it was bliss. Why have I not thought of this before?!?!
6. Chamber Dinner. The Christmas Chamber Dinner was this past Monday. I had a little TOO much fun if you know what I mean. I was suffering a bit on Tuesday. Makes me feel old. But also makes me glad I only do this once or twice a year:o)
5. Paw Paw Parade. It. Was. Freezing. SO COLD. But Mal enjoyed walking, passing out candy, and being a big girl. With her mom. It was well worth the cold.
4. Dowagiac Parade. The expressions on the kids' faces were priceless. Clay couldn't stop making crazy high pitch noises and Mal couldn't stop pointing out every dancer, firetruck, or Santa. They are at the perfect age right now--eating up every sound, vision, and experience.
3. Clayisms. I was walking past our nativity scene on Friday and noticed three rocks placed in a line on the manger. That's Sir Clayton. He also likes to put them in his pockets. And yes, he can find them anywhere--even in the winter. Speech is still going well. He's trying harder--really wanting to say words and sounds. It is amazing to me how much he understands. Makes me think I need to start watching what I say around him. He plays SO well independently. Mal not-so-much (what rest time?). I wonder if this is the second child syndrome. He's so entertained by his trains, cars, and anything else I give him. I'm truly shocked. And still working on Mal.
2. Malloryisms. Oh Mallory. Seems she had a "lock-up" (according to Mal) at school this week. You know a lock down. She came home all concerned and of course we talked about it. It breaks my heart I have to have these conversations with my 4 year old. But at least she's willing to share. Overheard Mal telling Clay that they should snuggle together on the couch while watching a show. They both were in smiles, giggling, covered in blankets, hunched over towards each other. Most adorable kid sight ever. Mal and I spent some sewing time together while Clayton had his nap. We used a starter kit and made a kitty cat and heart. She was singing the majority of the time--to lyrics that had to deal with our sewing. This totally reminded me up her Daddy. Two other quick quotes: M--"Alexis has two boyfriends." Me--"What?!?!" Mal--"Alexis has two boyfriends." Me--"You can't have a boyfriend until you are 16." Mal--"Okay Mommy." She's 4 people. FOUR. This weekend was a bit of chaos for us with the laundry room. We tried to do the BIG things when the kids were sleeping...but of course some things had to be done when the kids were awake. During the process of moving the big freezer, Mal ran into the room and told us Clay was climbing on top of the boxes (we have TONS). I told Mal, "Well, tell him not to nicely." So she ran into the room and we heard her say politely, "Clayton not to." Jay and I looked at each other and cracked up. We couldn't stop! LOVE the 4 year old literal mind. And the simplicity.
1. Laundry Room. Is on it's way!! We have painted walls (goodbye ugly bright blue, hello grey) and NEW flooring! It looks great and I feel like we have somewhat organized chaos. Now for some new closets and the rest of the unorganized chaos will be taken care of for good!
Well, here's to another week closer to Christmas!
Can't wait for the holiday!
Have a great week!
Until next,
Mrs. Newell
Monday, December 2, 2013
I Have Hobbies!
My husband has hobbies.
Lots of them.
Bowling, golfing, hunting, being outdoors, the list goes on.
Up until this past year,
I had nothing.
I mean,
I occasionally scrapped.
Or worked out.
But nothing consistent.
Nothing that led me out of the house...
Or someplace to work.
Or made me feel accomplished.
Or happy.
Or "Dude--this is FUN!"
That is,
Until this year.
So, then I ponder.
What caused me to be this way?
Not enough time?
Teaching and being a mother were my priorities.
No energy?
See above.
No ambition?
See above.
I've taken teaching out of the equation.
(THAT'S IT).
And, NOW...
I often feel torn in what TO do!
Sewing, scrap booking, crocheting, blogging.
My time is still limited.
So, I choose wisely daily depending on my mood.
And it's SO nice to do something for me.
JUST me.
That I love.
And cherish.
I get to be creative.
Use my skills.
And be ME.
Top 10 for the Week:
(I still hear the boy making roaring noises in his room--Nap time).
10. Sicky Sunday. So, I woke up yesterday morning with some tummy issues. Enough to cause me to not want to do anything the whole day. It was horrid. Feeling better now. But still not in the mood to eat too much. I'm thinking it's something I ate over break. My stomach is so sensitive now.
9. Laundry Room CHAOS. We are redoing our laundry room. Great right?!?!? You would think. But I hate the process. Our downstairs is so chaotic...it throws me in such a grumpy mood. As I search for coats, shoes, paper towels, toilet paper. We are not even close to being done. UGH.
8. OCD. I have a little of it. I grew up in a tidy household. BOTH my parents were very clean, organized, tidy, whatever you'd like to call it. So I've developed a bit of it. Marrying Jay has helped:o) He is so laid back about things and is not at all OCD. Some days I'm good, others I stress. Mal has a good balance of what she keeps clean and what she doesn't. Clayton I'm a bit worried about. I see tendencies in him. Not huge ones. There's nothing wrong with wanting a little order and clean, right?!?!
7. Christmas Décor. So, I had this fabulous idea to put up our Xmas decorations on the Wednesday Mal didn't have school. Mind you, in years past, I've done it at night or the weekend after Thanksgiving, when Jay's here. He manages the kids a bit and we all help put it up. Well, I thought the kids could handle it. It was CRAZY. And then Mal seemed bored with it and didn't want to finish. (She wanted to put it up SO badly, that I finally caved in and said okay). But it's done. And we are planning on getting our tree this weekend--which will be SO fun! I truly love this time of year with the kids. They get so excited over such little things.
6. Crochet. Thanks to another dear friend, I've finally mastered (the best I can) crocheting! I'm so pumped! I'm on my second scarf and have plans to do other things too! Only took a few teachers...and I finally figured it out!
5. Black Friday. Five years ago, Jay and I bought a treadmill on Black Friday. But other than that, we have never done any of the big shopping. I decided last minute to head the sales with her. We were at the stores around 8:00 and honestly it wasn't that bad. Got a few good deals. But I wish I would have been better prepared. Maybe next year.
4. Clayisms. Sunday morning, while all of us were vegging on the couch, Clay went into the kitchen. Opened the fridge, grabbed two carrots, and brought them out to the living room. Gave one to Mal, and they both started munching on them. It was so strange. And hilarious! His speech has been going VERY well. I feel like we finally have a little light at the end of the tunnel. It's SO encouraging! He is really starting to pick up words and you can hear them if you really listen. One happy Momma here.
3. Malloryisms. She's loving school and everything that goes with it. One day this week, she just started singing one of her Christmas program songs. It was so sweet and she was SO great at it. She knows the sounds and can identify 6 of the 7 letters they have learned. And she's becoming interested in writing out everything. She's our little sponge. And I LOVE teaching her new words and seeing her connect things.
2. Friends Visit. We had friends over on Saturday night. I love how the kids get along so well. It's so easy. And so nice to be able to just enjoy their company.
1. Holiday. So nice to have Jay home for a few days. Although I think the kids were confused:o) And it probably didn't help that we started the laundry room. A little bit of boredom and bickering kids caused a few long hours. But we all had a chance to do things that we love. And got to spend some time with Jay's family which was fun (food, drinks, & cards--what could be better?!?!). I'm looking forward to Christmas break--and having more time to just be with our families!
It's December!
Wow!
Enjoy your week friends!
Love to you all.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. Just so you know, I often do not have time to proofread my blogs (besides just spellcheck). Like now, I'm choosing to finish the vacuuming and do some crochet before the littles get up from their nap! Please forgive me:o) My time is limited! And precious!
Lots of them.
Bowling, golfing, hunting, being outdoors, the list goes on.
Up until this past year,
I had nothing.
I mean,
I occasionally scrapped.
Or worked out.
But nothing consistent.
Nothing that led me out of the house...
Or someplace to work.
Or made me feel accomplished.
Or happy.
Or "Dude--this is FUN!"
That is,
Until this year.
So, then I ponder.
What caused me to be this way?
Not enough time?
Teaching and being a mother were my priorities.
No energy?
See above.
No ambition?
See above.
I've taken teaching out of the equation.
(THAT'S IT).
And, NOW...
I often feel torn in what TO do!
Sewing, scrap booking, crocheting, blogging.
My time is still limited.
So, I choose wisely daily depending on my mood.
And it's SO nice to do something for me.
JUST me.
That I love.
And cherish.
I get to be creative.
Use my skills.
And be ME.
Top 10 for the Week:
(I still hear the boy making roaring noises in his room--Nap time).
10. Sicky Sunday. So, I woke up yesterday morning with some tummy issues. Enough to cause me to not want to do anything the whole day. It was horrid. Feeling better now. But still not in the mood to eat too much. I'm thinking it's something I ate over break. My stomach is so sensitive now.
9. Laundry Room CHAOS. We are redoing our laundry room. Great right?!?!? You would think. But I hate the process. Our downstairs is so chaotic...it throws me in such a grumpy mood. As I search for coats, shoes, paper towels, toilet paper. We are not even close to being done. UGH.
8. OCD. I have a little of it. I grew up in a tidy household. BOTH my parents were very clean, organized, tidy, whatever you'd like to call it. So I've developed a bit of it. Marrying Jay has helped:o) He is so laid back about things and is not at all OCD. Some days I'm good, others I stress. Mal has a good balance of what she keeps clean and what she doesn't. Clayton I'm a bit worried about. I see tendencies in him. Not huge ones. There's nothing wrong with wanting a little order and clean, right?!?!
7. Christmas Décor. So, I had this fabulous idea to put up our Xmas decorations on the Wednesday Mal didn't have school. Mind you, in years past, I've done it at night or the weekend after Thanksgiving, when Jay's here. He manages the kids a bit and we all help put it up. Well, I thought the kids could handle it. It was CRAZY. And then Mal seemed bored with it and didn't want to finish. (She wanted to put it up SO badly, that I finally caved in and said okay). But it's done. And we are planning on getting our tree this weekend--which will be SO fun! I truly love this time of year with the kids. They get so excited over such little things.
6. Crochet. Thanks to another dear friend, I've finally mastered (the best I can) crocheting! I'm so pumped! I'm on my second scarf and have plans to do other things too! Only took a few teachers...and I finally figured it out!
5. Black Friday. Five years ago, Jay and I bought a treadmill on Black Friday. But other than that, we have never done any of the big shopping. I decided last minute to head the sales with her. We were at the stores around 8:00 and honestly it wasn't that bad. Got a few good deals. But I wish I would have been better prepared. Maybe next year.
4. Clayisms. Sunday morning, while all of us were vegging on the couch, Clay went into the kitchen. Opened the fridge, grabbed two carrots, and brought them out to the living room. Gave one to Mal, and they both started munching on them. It was so strange. And hilarious! His speech has been going VERY well. I feel like we finally have a little light at the end of the tunnel. It's SO encouraging! He is really starting to pick up words and you can hear them if you really listen. One happy Momma here.
3. Malloryisms. She's loving school and everything that goes with it. One day this week, she just started singing one of her Christmas program songs. It was so sweet and she was SO great at it. She knows the sounds and can identify 6 of the 7 letters they have learned. And she's becoming interested in writing out everything. She's our little sponge. And I LOVE teaching her new words and seeing her connect things.
2. Friends Visit. We had friends over on Saturday night. I love how the kids get along so well. It's so easy. And so nice to be able to just enjoy their company.
1. Holiday. So nice to have Jay home for a few days. Although I think the kids were confused:o) And it probably didn't help that we started the laundry room. A little bit of boredom and bickering kids caused a few long hours. But we all had a chance to do things that we love. And got to spend some time with Jay's family which was fun (food, drinks, & cards--what could be better?!?!). I'm looking forward to Christmas break--and having more time to just be with our families!
It's December!
Wow!
Enjoy your week friends!
Love to you all.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. Just so you know, I often do not have time to proofread my blogs (besides just spellcheck). Like now, I'm choosing to finish the vacuuming and do some crochet before the littles get up from their nap! Please forgive me:o) My time is limited! And precious!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)