Earlier this week, I witnessed an older couple completely annoyed by my son.
I was extremely hurt that first day--to which my notes are from.
Looking back on it now, I'm over it, but still sad.
Here's my gut wrenching interpretation of the situation.
To the couple who sat across from us at a KID friendly restaurant for lunch today,
I'm sorry for obviously ruining your quiet lunch.
Thank God my son did not see your hurtful looks,
Hear your rude comments,
And notice your annoyed body language.
However,
I did.
I can and usually am an oblivious person to those strangers around me.
It takes a lot for me to see others.
And usually it's kind ones I see.
The smiles, laughs, nice comments, etc that bring my attention to a stranger.
But today, thanks to you, was an exception.
I'm sorry my son is THREE.
Full of energy, full of love, full of life.
Yes, he IS a little louder due to his lack of words.
And YES, he does draw attention to those around him.
(And honestly, it's USUALLY in a positive way).
Before you were judging him and my family,
We were enjoying a nice lunch out celebrating my daughter's half day of school.
What you didn't see was....
A little BOY who was SO excited to have his sister with him, he couldn't contain it.
A boy who was even MORE excited to have his favorite BLUE moon ice cream (blue is his favorite color).
A boy who was also enjoying the company of his Nana who came to visit for a few days.
A boy who seriously always has a smile on his face, who truly sees the good in people,
AND a boy who would have given you a hug if you asked (just ask the window guy who came to our house last week).
I'm sorry you didn't see my TRUE son.
That his actions, noises, and movements were too distracting for you to witness his UNIQUE personality.
Because if you would have looked beyond all of that, you would have seen a sweet boy who has SO much to offer this world in front of him. His full of life attitude is going to take him places and as his Momma, I am abundantly proud of him.
You haven't been the first to feel this way and you for sure won't be the last.
But I wish I could have opened your eyes differently.
Helped you see what was truly there.
And my heart hurts a little for you and your judging ways.
And my heart hurts a little for me for noticing you.
I apologize again for the actions of my son.
And offer a bit of advice.
Every "loud" child is a child.
Who is learning, growing, and witnessing those around them. It is OUR job as adults to model the behavior we want our future generations to act. Even if they are technically not "our" children, we are still influencing them and relying on them to make this world a better place.
Respectfully,
One Proud Momma Bear
Top 10 for the Week:
November 3rd, 2014
10. Mullet. So, I noticed earlier in the week that I had a slight problem with my hair. Like I had a somewhat mullet going on! Seriously. I freaked out. Called a few people to see if they would just cut it off for me. Yeah, I ended up waiting until later in the week and had a professional do it. I'm never waiting that long again! Yikes!
9. Time Change. Kids slept in that first morning...but now are up early every morning. UGH.
8. Volunteering. I had a chance to volunteer at the Middle School Book Fair this week. I had so much fun interacting with and seeing my old students! It felt great to be back in school and to see my people.
7. Wine & Canvas. I was invited to a wine and canvas party at my neighbor's house. It was SO much fun! I didn't follow all of the directions (I changed all the trees into pine trees and added a few hills), but I think it turned out pretty good! Would love to go to another one sometime.
6. Thursday. We had quite the busy Thursday. My mom was here for a few days to help out with watching Clay while I was volunteering. Thursday the kids both had appointments for the Flu Mist and then we decided to go out to lunch and then to Bounce land. Kids LOVED it. And my mom enjoyed witnessing her first time at Bounce land when it was empty. This momma was about done halfway through our Bounce land visit. Clay threw a major tantrum just before leaving. And of course didn't take a nap the whole way home (I am SO puzzled why our kids don't sleep in the car!). But overall, we had a great time!
5. Mal's Conference. As a parent of a kindergartener, I feel I have a pretty good idea of how she's doing. So I was surprised how much I took away from her conference. I mean I know she's a good kid who's doing well, but it's always reaffirming when another person tells you this and shows you evidence of this. She is blossoming. And I am SO proud of her.
4. Crafting Time. Mal and I had some crafting time on Saturday. She made (I helped) a few things for her friend Hannah and I finished up my Thanksgiving table runner. We enjoyed each other's company, and I'm realizing we need a bigger crafting area:o) I can't wait for MORE time like that!
3. Clayisms. I feel like every day I understand him more. He is truly making an effort to communicate with us. I noticed when my mom was here, how much others still don't understand him. But I do. And I guess I'll go with that for now. Some days I think he just repeats my name 100 times a day. Seriously. Some days I'm okay with it, other days I want to scream. And I am noticing how important a nap is for him. He becomes extremely cranky when he doesn't get one. Especially with Mal. There relationship is so off and on. They fought the whole way to grandma's on Thursday for dance and then when we left, she told him she loved him and how MUCH she was going to miss him. I cherish these moments. Even if they are instantly replaced with crazy ones.
2. Malloryisms. About midweek I notice how much school takes her energy out. However, this week she had a two half days--1 due to conferences and 1 due to a doctor appointment. On the one day I told her I had forgotten to tell her teacher about her being gone. "You know mom, you could just write a note for me and then I can give it to my teacher." My child is a pure genius I tell ya. Seriously. What kindergartener tells her mom this? And then about an hour later, "Mom don't forget to write me a note for my teacher." What would I do without her? If only she had known at the time she was going to the doctors--I'm sure she wouldn't have been so on it. But we did tell her to expect a surprise (lunch and Bounce Land). She was also excited about eating dinner on our special plate this week. I made a "You are special today" plate to highlight the special things in each of kids' lives. She was SO pumped about eating on it and was concerned that we were going out to lunch. How in the world was she going to eat on it? Mind you, this was FIRST thing she said to me Wednesday morning. We reassured her the plate would be hers at dinner. I also received the sweetest note from one of my teacher friends this week about her. I guess they had a sentence starter that read "I have a little..." She chose brother and then proceeded to illustrate Jay and I in a boat and her and Clay on the beach. When she asked her what was in the lake, Mal responded with waves. My friend was impressed by her sweetness and her vocabulary (she assumed fish would be in the lake). I feel SO privileged to have friends teaching my daughter. To have an insight into her school world. To know they love her and cherish her as much as I do. I feel SO fortunate.
1. BUSY Week DONE. It was a crazy busy week. Thanks to my mom who came and helped keep my sanity. Glad it's over.
I'm behind on my other blogs.
But I finished this weeks:o)
Woohoo!
Have a great week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. We feel accomplished today. Lawn mowed (mulched leaves), more lights up, spent most of the day outdoors and it felt great!
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Monday, October 20, 2014
Top 10
Top 10
October 13th, 2014
10. Hunting. Growing up, my dad (and later brother) where always hunting. I remember being home with my mom while my dad was in the woods. And now it seems I'm in my mother's shoes. I actually enjoy this time with just the kids and me. It seems now that school is in full session it's hard to get some alone time where we are not rushing around trying to get something done. *Jay if you are reading this, I enjoy being home with them, but it's SUPER nice to have you home too.
9. Chilled Weekend. Mal felt a little under the weather this weekend and with it being kinda gloomy out, we totally chilled this weekend. It was nice to just hang out inside playing games, puzzles, TV, forts, etc. We needed one of these weekends.
8. Sickness. It's here. Took Mal to the doctor today and she said it was allergies. But Clay's nose is starting to run too. And these allergies Mal has are horrible! I'm hoping the medicine starts kicking in so she can have some relief soon!
7. Clay's Field Trip. Went on Clay's first field trip this past week. ALL he could talk about was the BUS. He was so excited to ride the bus. He did really well and listened a lot better than he does at home:o) Which makes me feel good. It was fun to see him in his element with his people. He's made a few friends and he loves all the adults (teachers, parapros, helpers, therapists) that are involved in the program at his school.
6. Volunteering. Still truly enjoying helping out in Mal's room. Feeling never goes away. I've got the itch. To start teaching again. Did I really type that? Oops.
5. Advocacy. Since I've been home the last two years or so, I've really learned how important it is to be your own child/children's advocate. Especially with our son. I met with his private speech therapist and OT this week. Our speech teacher is SO great with him and I feel she gives me exactly what I need at the time--comfort AND knowledge. We chatted about his school setting and how it's hard for me to understand what he is actually doing in school (snack, PE time, etc.). Most kids would come home and chat up a storm about these things. Unfortunately, he does come home and "chat" a bit but it's extremely hard for me to understand him. She was very supportive of this concern and enforced that I AM HIS ADVOCATE. Later last week we started a traveling notebook. It's already helping open up more communication between school and home.
4. Wedding. Jay and I attended a friend's wedding this past weekend. Just the two of us. Why do weddings always make me feel like I'm lucky? Like I KNOW I picked the right man for me. It's kinda like you remember all those memories you experienced on your special day. The feeling. The bliss. The happiness. I love my husband. I love how weddings do that to me.
3. Clayisms. I met with Clay's OT this week. She is another amazing woman in Clay's life. She first started out saying how much joy it was to work with him. How his spirit and love of life is so great. Makes my heart beam. Because I also see this in our boy. Starting at conference time, he will be on her caseload. We are ecstatic! She has SO many ideas for him. And I can't wait to start working with her. She gave us homework and I'm meeting with her again next week! I finally feel like things are finally coming together for Clay. Like everything finally lined up and we can only go up from here on out! He has SO much support from his teachers, therapists, friends, family. It truly is a blessing. SO much has changed in just a few short months. I am so excited for this year!
2. Malloryisms. Mal's been a little tired this past week. Well, more than usual at least. In fact, she's kinda even put up a stink about going to school. I know shocking right?!?! But I understand that school is work not so much play now. Our conversation the other morning...
Mal: I don't want to go to school.
Me: I could homeschool you if you'd like. (I know I'm treading on water here...but read on).
Mal: Oh really!
Me: Yes, but that means you won't see your friends, you won't have specials, etc.
Mal: Oh. Yeah, I'll go to school. It's just that I don't get to do what I want to do. The teacher is always saying 'Do this, do that, do this, do that.'"
Dude--I couldn't stop laughing IN my head. That's the way life works honey. She's all good now. But I get the feeling. Sometimes life just seems hard and overwhelming and we all need a break from it. But I DO think Kindergarten should only be 1/2 days. A FULL day seems really long and hard.
She had a chance to go to the school library this week and she was super excited about that. It was cute to see her so pumped about books! Another cute saying this week: "Oh Brother! He's so funny!" Referring to her brother doing something funny.
1. Raider PRIDE. I saved the best for last. And it has to do with Miss Mallory. Of course I've had lots of great mommy moments with my kids but this one seems to top them all and I wasn't even there to witness the REAL event. But hearing it from my 5 1/2 year old makes it so special. Mal earned an award and certificate from school this past week due to finishing up a summer booklet. She was so excited to show me after school but it wasn't until bedtime that she truly shared with me the story. Of course this isn't word for word what she told me...but it was close. And you get the gist.
"Mom my name was called on the speaker! The said "Mallory Newell." So I went down to the office and when I got back to class all the other kids were asking me where I got it from. They were all disappointed (this WAS the word she used! Ha!) they didn't have one. We even got ice cream. It dripped down my hand so I had to throw part of it away. I licked the rest of it off my hand."
THE sweetest, proudest moment for me. Her recollection of it, how proud she was, how great she felt....seriously made my week. I will NEVER forget that moment she shared with me. And it's so strange NOT being there and seeing those moments. But somehow it's even better hearing it from HER. Her important details and thoughts in the situation.
Well, It's Monday!
I've got a sick kid home.
And another one bouncing off the walls!
Have a great week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. Hopefully one of these days I'll be able to finish all the ones I've slacked on!
October 13th, 2014
10. Hunting. Growing up, my dad (and later brother) where always hunting. I remember being home with my mom while my dad was in the woods. And now it seems I'm in my mother's shoes. I actually enjoy this time with just the kids and me. It seems now that school is in full session it's hard to get some alone time where we are not rushing around trying to get something done. *Jay if you are reading this, I enjoy being home with them, but it's SUPER nice to have you home too.
9. Chilled Weekend. Mal felt a little under the weather this weekend and with it being kinda gloomy out, we totally chilled this weekend. It was nice to just hang out inside playing games, puzzles, TV, forts, etc. We needed one of these weekends.
8. Sickness. It's here. Took Mal to the doctor today and she said it was allergies. But Clay's nose is starting to run too. And these allergies Mal has are horrible! I'm hoping the medicine starts kicking in so she can have some relief soon!
7. Clay's Field Trip. Went on Clay's first field trip this past week. ALL he could talk about was the BUS. He was so excited to ride the bus. He did really well and listened a lot better than he does at home:o) Which makes me feel good. It was fun to see him in his element with his people. He's made a few friends and he loves all the adults (teachers, parapros, helpers, therapists) that are involved in the program at his school.
6. Volunteering. Still truly enjoying helping out in Mal's room. Feeling never goes away. I've got the itch. To start teaching again. Did I really type that? Oops.
5. Advocacy. Since I've been home the last two years or so, I've really learned how important it is to be your own child/children's advocate. Especially with our son. I met with his private speech therapist and OT this week. Our speech teacher is SO great with him and I feel she gives me exactly what I need at the time--comfort AND knowledge. We chatted about his school setting and how it's hard for me to understand what he is actually doing in school (snack, PE time, etc.). Most kids would come home and chat up a storm about these things. Unfortunately, he does come home and "chat" a bit but it's extremely hard for me to understand him. She was very supportive of this concern and enforced that I AM HIS ADVOCATE. Later last week we started a traveling notebook. It's already helping open up more communication between school and home.
4. Wedding. Jay and I attended a friend's wedding this past weekend. Just the two of us. Why do weddings always make me feel like I'm lucky? Like I KNOW I picked the right man for me. It's kinda like you remember all those memories you experienced on your special day. The feeling. The bliss. The happiness. I love my husband. I love how weddings do that to me.
3. Clayisms. I met with Clay's OT this week. She is another amazing woman in Clay's life. She first started out saying how much joy it was to work with him. How his spirit and love of life is so great. Makes my heart beam. Because I also see this in our boy. Starting at conference time, he will be on her caseload. We are ecstatic! She has SO many ideas for him. And I can't wait to start working with her. She gave us homework and I'm meeting with her again next week! I finally feel like things are finally coming together for Clay. Like everything finally lined up and we can only go up from here on out! He has SO much support from his teachers, therapists, friends, family. It truly is a blessing. SO much has changed in just a few short months. I am so excited for this year!
2. Malloryisms. Mal's been a little tired this past week. Well, more than usual at least. In fact, she's kinda even put up a stink about going to school. I know shocking right?!?! But I understand that school is work not so much play now. Our conversation the other morning...
Mal: I don't want to go to school.
Me: I could homeschool you if you'd like. (I know I'm treading on water here...but read on).
Mal: Oh really!
Me: Yes, but that means you won't see your friends, you won't have specials, etc.
Mal: Oh. Yeah, I'll go to school. It's just that I don't get to do what I want to do. The teacher is always saying 'Do this, do that, do this, do that.'"
Dude--I couldn't stop laughing IN my head. That's the way life works honey. She's all good now. But I get the feeling. Sometimes life just seems hard and overwhelming and we all need a break from it. But I DO think Kindergarten should only be 1/2 days. A FULL day seems really long and hard.
She had a chance to go to the school library this week and she was super excited about that. It was cute to see her so pumped about books! Another cute saying this week: "Oh Brother! He's so funny!" Referring to her brother doing something funny.
1. Raider PRIDE. I saved the best for last. And it has to do with Miss Mallory. Of course I've had lots of great mommy moments with my kids but this one seems to top them all and I wasn't even there to witness the REAL event. But hearing it from my 5 1/2 year old makes it so special. Mal earned an award and certificate from school this past week due to finishing up a summer booklet. She was so excited to show me after school but it wasn't until bedtime that she truly shared with me the story. Of course this isn't word for word what she told me...but it was close. And you get the gist.
"Mom my name was called on the speaker! The said "Mallory Newell." So I went down to the office and when I got back to class all the other kids were asking me where I got it from. They were all disappointed (this WAS the word she used! Ha!) they didn't have one. We even got ice cream. It dripped down my hand so I had to throw part of it away. I licked the rest of it off my hand."
THE sweetest, proudest moment for me. Her recollection of it, how proud she was, how great she felt....seriously made my week. I will NEVER forget that moment she shared with me. And it's so strange NOT being there and seeing those moments. But somehow it's even better hearing it from HER. Her important details and thoughts in the situation.
Well, It's Monday!
I've got a sick kid home.
And another one bouncing off the walls!
Have a great week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
P.S. Hopefully one of these days I'll be able to finish all the ones I've slacked on!
Sunday, September 28, 2014
My Ramblings
I am astonished by the overwhelming support and love given to my blog. My last entry had by far the most views, comments, and likes. I am still shocked that all of you read and like my weekly ramblings:o) I started this over two years ago as an outlet to my sanity. As well as a reason to look for the good in the weekly little things, to keep record of my family's life, and to hold onto a bit of my educational background. It has even blossomed into more than just that for me. And the three month hiatus this summer has proven that to me.
I'd like to give a huge shout out of thanks to those of you that have supported or commented or just thought in your head "I get that!" My sole purpose was to help myself (I know, rather selfish), and in the process I've gained an audience who appreciates my random thoughts and ramblings. An audience I did not know even existed. But whom I appreciate and find comfort in. Thanks again!
Top 10 for the Week:
September 15th, 2014
10. Bee Sting. I was stung by a bee last week swatting it away from Clay. I haven't been stung in YEARS. Was not fun and freaked out the kids a bit. Whoops.
9. Tipper Love. So, I've never been a huge fan of our dog, Tipper. I know. Crazy right? Hear me out. Our dog before Tips was our baby. His name was Murphy and he had THE best personality. Unfortunately we had to put him down when he was around four due to an illness. We adopted Tipper as a puppy the summer Mal was 18 months. It was pure chaos. I seriously felt like I had two babies to care for. It was too much. Hence the not fully enjoying her. Anyways, now that the kids have been off to school, I'm finding this new love for our dog. She is very sweet, calm, and a great company. Who would have thought? Jay's astonished.
8. Busy Friday. My goal is to try and stay home on Fridays. Oh what a Friday we had. Before noon I had changed the sheets on all 3 beds, cleaned the bathroom, emptied the dishwasher, and unloaded a truck full of wood! I was exhausted. And so was Clayster. He's such a great sidekick.
7. Pudge the Pig. Mal's class mascot came for a visit this week. She was SO excited! Beaming from ear to ear when I picked her up. I seriously LOVE this age. Her excitement over little things is so adorable. Pudge had a great visit and Mal sure enjoyed sharing her bed with a pig. (I seriously want a REAL pig. Seriously. We are considering getting one this spring. I'm so excited!:-))
6. Mal's DESK. Mal was given a desk from her Aunt and Grandma Newell. It is perfect! We had a great time painting it together. Even Clay helped out.
5. Canning Pears! So last year a few of us got together and canned 60 quarts of pears. This year, my SIL and I decided to do it again by ourselves! We were extremely successful! 6 hours, 2 bushels of pears, and the two of us produced 60 or so quarts of pears for us to enjoy over the winter months! Such satisfaction out of doing this. Which I still don't know why. But every time I open a jar up, I am beaming with pride that I helped can it and provide it for my family. I know. Extremely silly. And I just have to put in here that Clay was such a trooper! He was SO well behaved! I was SO proud of him!
4. Thursday. I had an oil change appointment on this past Thursday. I really didn't know what to do with myself during this time. But I decided to walk down to a local coffee shop that I had never been in. It was SUCH bliss. I had a chance to plan meals for the next week, enjoy a coffee, do a few other things, in the company of locals while smelling delicious coffee. It seriously was awesome.
3. Clayisms. Clay grabbed my phone this weekend and started watching videos of him and Mal. I cried. Makes me sad to think about how we used to be able to do things together during the week. Such a more relaxed, carefree atmosphere. Now I feel like I'm rushing here and there and everywhere. Clayton seems to be improving on his speech. I'm noticing a few combined words--two sheep, pink pig, here mom. He continues to love school and is SO into napping (which he's NEVER been before!).
2. Malloryisms. Getting to be such a big girl. I asked her this week during one of our chit-chat sessions if she wanted me to go back to work. Her reply, "I don't want you to work. You need to take care of home." I guess it's probably comforting for her to know that I am home waiting for her. Still loving school as well and doing extremely well. I'm noticing an improvement in her writing. And she's more interested in practicing things at home.
1. Kidless Weekend. Jay and I went to visit some dear friends of ours one night so my parents took the kids for the whole weekend. I cried when they left. I didn't even have a good chance to talk to my girl after school and then she was gone. For our kidless date night, Jay and I hauled wood. Yes, that is correct people. You do what you gotta do. We are those type. Between hauling and unloading we DID got out to dinner and had a few drinks. I had three and had a hangover in the morning. This is why I don't drink anymore. Jay thinks I need to drink more so I don't feel this way. HA! We had a lovely time visiting our friends and getting a tour of their new house. We feel blessed to have them in our lives for so many years (18 years to be exact!). Lots of laughs, food, and just enjoying each other's company. Looking forward to hopefully another visit before the end of the year.
That's a wrap!
Hope all is well!
And that you had a great week as well!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Apraxia
"I wish my brother talked, then I'd have someone to talk to."
This was said by my sweet Miss Mallory Jayne. We were coming home from dance last week and she just randomly stated this. Broke my heart. Because honestly, I feel the same way. And the more time I spend alone with him the more I crave to hear "real" words from him.
Apraxia* is not easy.
Especially to those closest to him.
I have learned that my daughter has an overly patience personality. She loves her brother with all her heart and tries her best to include him in everything she does. Always thinking of him. Playing with him. Helping him. The two are inseparable when they are both home.
But this summer took a toll on their relationship. Being together 24 hours a day, 7 days a week broke them. Broke her. And I KNOW the feeling. They began to fight a lot. Constantly bickering. It wore at me. I didn't know what to do. What had gone wrong. And then it hit me.
Apraxia.
I watched several encounters with them...watched them escalate. Each started with them playing nicely. Enjoying each other's company. Smiling, laughing. And then Mallory would want Clay to do something or say something. And he wouldn't want to. He would struggle with how to tell her his own opinion. She couldn't understand. She would yell. He would get even more frustrated. And hit. Throw. Whatever he could do to get her attention. She would then do the same back OR come crying to me. I felt bad. I knew the reasoning behind their fights. The lack of communication. Clay's frustration with knowing what's going on, wanting to tell her what he wants, and then not being able to.
I honestly can't even imagine what that would be like. To not have a voice when you know what you want to say. Makes me cry every time I think about my little boy. How desperately I would love for him to ask me for a glass of milk. Or to tell me he loves me. Or to even know his thoughts. Because I know our boy is full of them, you can tell by the way he plays, concentrates. He gets it all.
I see relatives and friends with their 2 and 3 year olds and I become jealous. I try to not dwell on it too much. But it's hard. I wish I could fix it all right now. That I could make it better overnight. But it will take years. Years of hard work for all of us. Years of more patience. Years of LOTS of love and understanding.
We are on board. Whole heartedly. But I can't tell you there aren't days where I want to throw my hands up in the air. Call uncle. That I truly need a break. But then I look at our boy. Who loves unconditionally. Who lights up every room he walks into. Who loves life and everyone that is in it. Who gets excited over the most trivial things. And I plunge back into this Apraxia world we live in. Because he deserves to have a VOICE that is understood and HEARD by all around him.
I love you Clayton Winfred Newell.
*It's comforting finally having a diagnosis (and even confirmed from a second therapist this past week). The two years I spent worrying, wondering, losing my mind over what could possible be wrong with our happy, easygoing little guy were not easy either. Knowing there's a "fix" to this helps tremendously on this journey we are on.
Top 10 for the Week of:
September 8th, 2014
10. CLEAN. Like I said last week, I'm finally getting to do all that spring cleaning I've never done in the YEARS that we've lived here. Amen.
9. Wood. We need some. LOTS. With our primary heat source being a outdoor wood burner, this is a necessity. Jay's been trying his best lately to get out to the family farm to get some. We have a long ways to go but we are getting there.
8. Caramel Mocha. Every Thursday this is my treat to myself. I'm not suppose to have coffee due to the caffeine dehydrating me and giving me migraines. BUT one a week I think is fine. I LOVE this. That is all.
7. Workouts NEEDED. Gosh, I need to start doing something! Anything! I need to step up my game and make it a priority but I just find other things to do....and I feel like I'm in constant motion ALL day from being in the car, to picking kids up, to making meals. I know, it's every mom's life. But I NEED to find something. Or I need a workout partner. Please. Accountability helps with me. I know this FOR SURE.
6. Grocery Shopping Alone. Bliss. Although the last time it was just the boy and me. Wasn't as bad. But going alone is better. That's for sure!
5. Friend Birthday Party. One of Clay's friends, Luke, had his 3rd birthday party this past weekend. Loved seeing both Mal and him enjoy their friends. Seemed like it had been forever since the girls had played together--now that they are no longer in school together:o( Clay is/was BUSY. Very busy. Makes this Momma crazy. VERY crazy.
4. Clayisms. This week, I had the privilege of capturing a special growing up moment of my boy. As he was walking into school ALONE, I watched him go to his cubby, take his backpack off, hang it up, take his coat off, and hang that up as well. He knew exactly what to do without even being told--the second week of school! Sweetest little memory I will keep in my heart forever! Also made me tear up a bit. He's growing up. Clay's teacher and Speech Therapist would like him to add another day to his week. Which means that Monday thru Thursday he'll be going to school until 11:00AM. I am extremely bittersweet about this. But they strongly feel this will help him. We are giving him a month trial. He starts Monday. That gives me only Friday alone with him all day. I'm trying to leave this day open for just him and me. Nothing else. No plans, no errands, just us. Last Friday was so much fun. Even though he insisted on being outside at like 8:15 in the morning!:o) We really had a great day of no rushing or driving anywhere! It was bliss. Oh and his new speech teacher also said he has Apraxia. I'm not sure why this makes me feel better, but it does. It's like we are ALL on the same page now. It can only get better from here.
3. Malloryisms. One day this past week, I grabbed two kiddie plates for lunch. Two years worth of grabbing two plates for lunch. It was a habit I didn't know I had. Made me a bit tearful. I'm not sharing lunch with my girl during the week. I'm hoping to try and do a Friday lunch with her (since her lunch is so early, and with getting Clay, this is the only day that works). I definitely missed her more this week than last. It's sinking in. However, I did have some moments with her at night. One night her and I played a few games of Memory together. If I don't get my time in with her, I'm extremely distraught and out-of-sorts. It's hard to not be happy for her though. She LOVES school and is thriving. Her teacher (who is such a sweet woman) has told me such great things about our little girl. Just wish I was there to witness it all. I know, I'm being selfish. It's great to hear though. Her helpfulness (in an appropriate way--cause there IS a difference), sweetness, and just all around good girl ways are shining. I am SO proud. Love her.
2. 7th Anniversary. Yep. We had an anniversary this past week. Just like Jay's birthday. It came and went quicker than I anticipated. However, we are taking some US time this weekend which will be nice. I think it's just inevitable that the beginning of school is crazy. Which also just happens to be a birthday and anniversary (I still remember taking two days off of school the first week and one day the next the year we got married!).
1. ME Time. It's been nice. Needed. Quiet. Just myself, the cat, and the dog. Which have been great company:o) I know the cat doesn't mind the kids gone...but I think Tipper is wishing they were home. Even time to blog has been appreciated! Just a bit of time to breath. And recharge.
That's a wrap folks.
Hope you have a great week and weekend!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
(P.S. I went into Mal's room today and was called this. Soon people. SOON.)
Friday, September 12, 2014
3 Month Hiatis
It's amazing to me how three months can just fly. Like they never even really happened. As I look back on my blog, I see that the middle of June was my last entry. It makes me sad, but it gives me joy in writing TODAY. Gosh I have missed this outlet.
A lot has happened since then. In fact, I continue to have our "notes" or memories on my phone. Who knows if I will eventually officially make them into a blog. But for now, they are still recorded. Still captured. In hopes of not forgetting the past three months! Because my "mommy brain" is like that! Until then, let's move on.
This past week was our first week of school. For BOTH kids.
I'm still in awe at how smooth the transition went for the kids. (This Momma is a different story!)
Mallory* was elated to go....she couldn't get there fast enough! Jumped right into the playground and only looked back once to wave on the way into the school. She was beaming from ear to ear. When I picked her up from school that day she told me it was "THE best ever!" She kept telling me how much she couldn't wait to go back. Her favorite part of the day was Music. When I found out who her teacher was, it totally made sense to me. A fun, energetic lady who I know Mal will relate very well too! (I should also mention here that Clayton cried a TON. He missed her SO much and still does. I remember driving away from her school and he kept looking at her carseat and saying MeeMee. Broke my heart).
Clayton** was excited too...but a little apprehensive. He is MUCH more of a homebody. He loves home. And it's one of the words he can say really well. So he says it often:o) On the first day I kept telling him that I would be "back" and we'd have "lunch." He can say and understand these words very easily. He kept repeating them and all of a sudden it was like, "Okay, I got this." He walked right in and didn't even look back. The second day he held onto me a bit longer, gave me a tighter hug. But still in the long run, walked in with no real stress.
Now, I know most would think GREAT! How nice! No real stress on the kids. Etc, etc.
But this Momma thought--what have I done that my kids are SO willing to leave the nest? ME?
My VERY wise Mother put it in perspective for me (after I called her upset after dropping off the boy). We've prepared them for this day. We've taught them to be independent. To enjoy being around others. That school is important. And that's the next step in their life.
I didn't cry. I thought I might tear a little. But I didn't.
(Probably helped that I'm on an antidepressant again--a whole other story about the stress of summer that I'm sure will come out in other blogs!)
I pondered this a bit too. And came to the same realization as the kids. I mean, I'm sad. But I understand that this is the next step. The next chapter in our life. It's different. Hard to even explain but I know this is how it works. And it's inevitable.
I miss my girl terribly. BUT I know she needs this. Needs the interactions, needs the learning environment of school. I feel like I need to make a list of things that pop up in my head during the day that makes me think of her. Or the important things I want to tell her. And if I don't get my time in with her in the evening--I feel upset, like I'm missing something.
And I miss my boy too. But the few hours of not having to be on Clay duty is honestly a nice break. I cringe typing that...but after this summer, it's such a nice reprieve from the LONG days. And I still have my one-on-one time with him. And he LOVES this. SO much. We read books, cook, play, take walks, go to the store. He's my little sidekick. And mind you this is only the second week of school:o)
SO, my kids love school. So did I. And my heart keeps telling me that someday I will be back in the classroom where I know I'm meant to be. This week has truly given me insight into my love of teaching and the school environment.
However, until then, I will keep plugging along at my duties now:o) Miss Chauffeur, Miss Chef, Miss Maid, Miss Laudrymat, Miss Fix-It, Miss Organize, Miss It's-Amazing-To-Me-What-I-Can-Do-In-Two-Hours. And honestly, I wouldn't change it for the world!
*Mallory is attending my old school that I used to teach in for 9 years. I feel like everyone knows her. She loved all the special attention as everyone said hello to her. It's so comforting knowing my people are with her and watching over her. Such a blessing. Her teacher is Mrs. Ebeling--a good friend who I also had her daughter--I was pregnant with Mal the year I had her daughter. Her daughter gave me a build-a-bear frog that Mal STILL sleeps with to this day:o)
**Clayton is attending a special needs preschool where he will receive 2-3 days of speech therapy as well as see an OT. His class only has 8 kids with a full time teacher AND parapro. His teacher ROCKS! Sweetest thing ever. It's the perfect fit for him. I am SO glad that we decided to go here and I can't wait to see the growth in him this year.
Top 10 for the Week:
September 1st, 2014
10. Blogging. I'm blogging. BIG news. It's been forever. Feels GREAT!
9. HOME. There's something about home that makes me feel great. I'm comfortable. Happy. At peace. There's no other place I would like to be. And I think this feeling is rubbing off on Clayster. He loves home. It helps that it's one of his clear, you-can-understand-it, words.
8. Dance Started! Dance started this past week. Yes--the first week of school! Mal is taking tap as well as ballet. It was a bit rough. She was fooling around a bit with the other girls. I know she was tired. Her attention span shot from being in school. She loves tap. I knew she would.
7. Holy Clean People. Ummmm...I'm kind of a clean freak. But being home more, by myself, has caused me to go into spring cleaning mode. Like all those years, I've truly neglected doing the REAL spring cleaning are NOW taking place. I find great satisfaction out of this. I know, I'm sick. I like the smell of clean:o)
6. Tantrums Baby. Both kids. Multiple times. First week of school. I'm SURE it will get better. Right?
5. Weekend at Nana & Papa's. We had a great weekend at my parents. I was a bit nervous knowing my kids just came off of their first week of school. But it was a must. All my dad's side of the family plus my brother and his family were there. It was great to see everyone and especially my Grandma. We played cards, chatted, ate, had a great time together. It's nice to see them another time than just Christmas. Kids were beat. But they loved every minute of the social party.
4. Clayisms. He is such a different kid one-on-one. Much calmer. Sweeter. I know he missed Mal terribly. But he is soaking up his Momma time. And I'm letting him:o) Forgot to mention he also cut his hair this week with the scissors he got from the school fairy (Jay is blaming ME for this. Who gets a 3 year old scissors? Mind you, he was standing in FRONT of Clay when he did this). Several times this week, Clayton also ran downstairs to give Mal one last hug before she left for school. It was cute.
3. Malloryisms. She's so adorable. I heard many cute sayings from her this week. The first one was after school on the first day. I just had picked her up and we were heading into the house. I was a bit behind her and I heard "I missed you girl." She was talking to our dog, Tipper. It was the sweetest thing. And I totally get where she was coming from. On the second day home from school, Clay was pretty much telling her he didn't want her to go to school anymore. Her reply, "I have to go to school Clay so I can learn. Then I can read you books! Won't that be fun Clayton?" I still beam as I type this.
2. Jay's Birthday. Jay had a birthday. First day of school. That is all:o)
1. School. They LOVE it. I'm glad. But sad.
I did it! Completed my first blog in FOREVER!
Hope you people have a great week~!
Feels great to be back!
Even though this week is almost over...
And I'll be typing again REAL soon (hopefully!).
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
A lot has happened since then. In fact, I continue to have our "notes" or memories on my phone. Who knows if I will eventually officially make them into a blog. But for now, they are still recorded. Still captured. In hopes of not forgetting the past three months! Because my "mommy brain" is like that! Until then, let's move on.
This past week was our first week of school. For BOTH kids.
I'm still in awe at how smooth the transition went for the kids. (This Momma is a different story!)
Mallory* was elated to go....she couldn't get there fast enough! Jumped right into the playground and only looked back once to wave on the way into the school. She was beaming from ear to ear. When I picked her up from school that day she told me it was "THE best ever!" She kept telling me how much she couldn't wait to go back. Her favorite part of the day was Music. When I found out who her teacher was, it totally made sense to me. A fun, energetic lady who I know Mal will relate very well too! (I should also mention here that Clayton cried a TON. He missed her SO much and still does. I remember driving away from her school and he kept looking at her carseat and saying MeeMee. Broke my heart).
Clayton** was excited too...but a little apprehensive. He is MUCH more of a homebody. He loves home. And it's one of the words he can say really well. So he says it often:o) On the first day I kept telling him that I would be "back" and we'd have "lunch." He can say and understand these words very easily. He kept repeating them and all of a sudden it was like, "Okay, I got this." He walked right in and didn't even look back. The second day he held onto me a bit longer, gave me a tighter hug. But still in the long run, walked in with no real stress.
Now, I know most would think GREAT! How nice! No real stress on the kids. Etc, etc.
But this Momma thought--what have I done that my kids are SO willing to leave the nest? ME?
My VERY wise Mother put it in perspective for me (after I called her upset after dropping off the boy). We've prepared them for this day. We've taught them to be independent. To enjoy being around others. That school is important. And that's the next step in their life.
I didn't cry. I thought I might tear a little. But I didn't.
(Probably helped that I'm on an antidepressant again--a whole other story about the stress of summer that I'm sure will come out in other blogs!)
I pondered this a bit too. And came to the same realization as the kids. I mean, I'm sad. But I understand that this is the next step. The next chapter in our life. It's different. Hard to even explain but I know this is how it works. And it's inevitable.
I miss my girl terribly. BUT I know she needs this. Needs the interactions, needs the learning environment of school. I feel like I need to make a list of things that pop up in my head during the day that makes me think of her. Or the important things I want to tell her. And if I don't get my time in with her in the evening--I feel upset, like I'm missing something.
And I miss my boy too. But the few hours of not having to be on Clay duty is honestly a nice break. I cringe typing that...but after this summer, it's such a nice reprieve from the LONG days. And I still have my one-on-one time with him. And he LOVES this. SO much. We read books, cook, play, take walks, go to the store. He's my little sidekick. And mind you this is only the second week of school:o)
SO, my kids love school. So did I. And my heart keeps telling me that someday I will be back in the classroom where I know I'm meant to be. This week has truly given me insight into my love of teaching and the school environment.
However, until then, I will keep plugging along at my duties now:o) Miss Chauffeur, Miss Chef, Miss Maid, Miss Laudrymat, Miss Fix-It, Miss Organize, Miss It's-Amazing-To-Me-What-I-Can-Do-In-Two-Hours. And honestly, I wouldn't change it for the world!
*Mallory is attending my old school that I used to teach in for 9 years. I feel like everyone knows her. She loved all the special attention as everyone said hello to her. It's so comforting knowing my people are with her and watching over her. Such a blessing. Her teacher is Mrs. Ebeling--a good friend who I also had her daughter--I was pregnant with Mal the year I had her daughter. Her daughter gave me a build-a-bear frog that Mal STILL sleeps with to this day:o)
**Clayton is attending a special needs preschool where he will receive 2-3 days of speech therapy as well as see an OT. His class only has 8 kids with a full time teacher AND parapro. His teacher ROCKS! Sweetest thing ever. It's the perfect fit for him. I am SO glad that we decided to go here and I can't wait to see the growth in him this year.
Top 10 for the Week:
September 1st, 2014
10. Blogging. I'm blogging. BIG news. It's been forever. Feels GREAT!
9. HOME. There's something about home that makes me feel great. I'm comfortable. Happy. At peace. There's no other place I would like to be. And I think this feeling is rubbing off on Clayster. He loves home. It helps that it's one of his clear, you-can-understand-it, words.
8. Dance Started! Dance started this past week. Yes--the first week of school! Mal is taking tap as well as ballet. It was a bit rough. She was fooling around a bit with the other girls. I know she was tired. Her attention span shot from being in school. She loves tap. I knew she would.
7. Holy Clean People. Ummmm...I'm kind of a clean freak. But being home more, by myself, has caused me to go into spring cleaning mode. Like all those years, I've truly neglected doing the REAL spring cleaning are NOW taking place. I find great satisfaction out of this. I know, I'm sick. I like the smell of clean:o)
6. Tantrums Baby. Both kids. Multiple times. First week of school. I'm SURE it will get better. Right?
5. Weekend at Nana & Papa's. We had a great weekend at my parents. I was a bit nervous knowing my kids just came off of their first week of school. But it was a must. All my dad's side of the family plus my brother and his family were there. It was great to see everyone and especially my Grandma. We played cards, chatted, ate, had a great time together. It's nice to see them another time than just Christmas. Kids were beat. But they loved every minute of the social party.
4. Clayisms. He is such a different kid one-on-one. Much calmer. Sweeter. I know he missed Mal terribly. But he is soaking up his Momma time. And I'm letting him:o) Forgot to mention he also cut his hair this week with the scissors he got from the school fairy (Jay is blaming ME for this. Who gets a 3 year old scissors? Mind you, he was standing in FRONT of Clay when he did this). Several times this week, Clayton also ran downstairs to give Mal one last hug before she left for school. It was cute.
3. Malloryisms. She's so adorable. I heard many cute sayings from her this week. The first one was after school on the first day. I just had picked her up and we were heading into the house. I was a bit behind her and I heard "I missed you girl." She was talking to our dog, Tipper. It was the sweetest thing. And I totally get where she was coming from. On the second day home from school, Clay was pretty much telling her he didn't want her to go to school anymore. Her reply, "I have to go to school Clay so I can learn. Then I can read you books! Won't that be fun Clayton?" I still beam as I type this.
2. Jay's Birthday. Jay had a birthday. First day of school. That is all:o)
1. School. They LOVE it. I'm glad. But sad.
I did it! Completed my first blog in FOREVER!
Hope you people have a great week~!
Feels great to be back!
Even though this week is almost over...
And I'll be typing again REAL soon (hopefully!).
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Top 10 for the Week
Top 10 for the Week
June 16th, 2014
10. Horrible Week. I'm about four weeks behind on my weekly updates. AND I'm sad to say that this is a reoccurring theme for the last four weeks. UGH. Will explain more later. Just know, I'm sad. Summer is not going exactly how I had planned it in my head:-(
9. Strawberry Picking. Kids enjoyed picking strawberries and you could totally tell by the stains on their faces! Another great year picking strawberries. Would have loved to do it more than once...but the season went quick! Clay smelled a few flowers, stepped on strawberry plants, and ate a TON. Mal enjoyed visiting with her cousin Ben, picking the perfect strawberry, and eating TONS too.
8. Bridal Shower. Had a chance to get out of the house to a Bridal Shower. Always fun to get away for a bit and visit with ladies:o)
7. Kids at Dentist. Kids had a dentist appointment this week. They did GREAT! Mal was such a trooper with her cleaning--never batting an eye. And Clayton. Oh Clayton. He was awesome as well--VERY excited about having his teeth checked. In fact, probably would have even done a cleaning. He's afraid of bugs but not of the dentist or getting his hair cut.
6. Night Out KidLESS. A few of Jay's high school friends were getting together later on Saturday. We asked Jay's parents to watch them and they decided to keep them overnight! :o) It was so great to be out for a bit and then head home to a quiet house. And to wake up to a quiet house. Bliss.
5. Outdoors CURES all. So, I've mentioned that our kids have been a bit cranky. Well, it seems outdoors can cure that--at least for awhile. We headed outdoors one morning after I was tired of breaking up fights! Kids were great. And the sun felt great!
4. Relay for Life. Another great year done! Hard to believe! Jay made a few awesome props! I manned the tent for awhile....and was only able to actually go around the track a few times!
3. Clayisms. So, two nights this week while Mal was at VBS Clay and I went shopping with our friends (she has a 6 month old). Ummmm....Clay shopping in the evening is even worse than shopping during the day. He broke three things at different stores. He cannot keep his hands off anything. THREE has been SO hard on me. He is also into locking doors. Like locking his or Mal's doors and closing them so we have to "pick" them to get them opened. ALL the time. THREE has been SO hard on me. See #10.
2. Malloryisms. We've signed up for the summer reading program at the library. It has been fun for the kids! And an eye opener to me that we read a TON of books a week! Like 5-7 a day with is 35-49 books a week! I truly had no clue. But I'm glad. Anyways, Mal is THE best book picker outer. I struggle at times...but she seems to be SO on picking out the right books for her and Clay. It's sweet. I also caught her one day this week randomly dancing to a song in the house. To see her free spirit gave me a smile. We also had a discussion this week about Clay calling her MeeMee. It's extremely hard to tell the difference between Mom and Mal right now. So he's been calling her MeeMee. Which I think is totally cute. Here's the conversation Mal and I had about it.
Mal: Mom I don't like it when Clay calls me MeeMee because it sounds like peepee.
Me: Well, I was called Buppie by my brother because he couldn't say Bethie.
Mal: Really! That's way better! It sounds like puppy.
Me: (Pausing...trying to think of something to say) Well, MeeMee sounds like Mermaid.
Mal: He can either call me Mermaid or Mallory.
Real nice. I know. It was a stretch...but I had to come up with something. And we didn't get anywhere! Go figure!
1. Vacation Bible School. We had the pleasure of being asked to join in our friend's VBS. It was SO much fun! And Mal truly enjoyed herself! My friend and I even got a few nights to ourselves--kidless (which had never happened before!). It was a LONG week (getting home at 9:30 every night or so and Jay being gone TWO of the nights) but it was SO fun to see Mal truly "Shine."
June 16th, 2014
10. Horrible Week. I'm about four weeks behind on my weekly updates. AND I'm sad to say that this is a reoccurring theme for the last four weeks. UGH. Will explain more later. Just know, I'm sad. Summer is not going exactly how I had planned it in my head:-(
9. Strawberry Picking. Kids enjoyed picking strawberries and you could totally tell by the stains on their faces! Another great year picking strawberries. Would have loved to do it more than once...but the season went quick! Clay smelled a few flowers, stepped on strawberry plants, and ate a TON. Mal enjoyed visiting with her cousin Ben, picking the perfect strawberry, and eating TONS too.
8. Bridal Shower. Had a chance to get out of the house to a Bridal Shower. Always fun to get away for a bit and visit with ladies:o)
7. Kids at Dentist. Kids had a dentist appointment this week. They did GREAT! Mal was such a trooper with her cleaning--never batting an eye. And Clayton. Oh Clayton. He was awesome as well--VERY excited about having his teeth checked. In fact, probably would have even done a cleaning. He's afraid of bugs but not of the dentist or getting his hair cut.
6. Night Out KidLESS. A few of Jay's high school friends were getting together later on Saturday. We asked Jay's parents to watch them and they decided to keep them overnight! :o) It was so great to be out for a bit and then head home to a quiet house. And to wake up to a quiet house. Bliss.
5. Outdoors CURES all. So, I've mentioned that our kids have been a bit cranky. Well, it seems outdoors can cure that--at least for awhile. We headed outdoors one morning after I was tired of breaking up fights! Kids were great. And the sun felt great!
4. Relay for Life. Another great year done! Hard to believe! Jay made a few awesome props! I manned the tent for awhile....and was only able to actually go around the track a few times!
3. Clayisms. So, two nights this week while Mal was at VBS Clay and I went shopping with our friends (she has a 6 month old). Ummmm....Clay shopping in the evening is even worse than shopping during the day. He broke three things at different stores. He cannot keep his hands off anything. THREE has been SO hard on me. He is also into locking doors. Like locking his or Mal's doors and closing them so we have to "pick" them to get them opened. ALL the time. THREE has been SO hard on me. See #10.
2. Malloryisms. We've signed up for the summer reading program at the library. It has been fun for the kids! And an eye opener to me that we read a TON of books a week! Like 5-7 a day with is 35-49 books a week! I truly had no clue. But I'm glad. Anyways, Mal is THE best book picker outer. I struggle at times...but she seems to be SO on picking out the right books for her and Clay. It's sweet. I also caught her one day this week randomly dancing to a song in the house. To see her free spirit gave me a smile. We also had a discussion this week about Clay calling her MeeMee. It's extremely hard to tell the difference between Mom and Mal right now. So he's been calling her MeeMee. Which I think is totally cute. Here's the conversation Mal and I had about it.
Mal: Mom I don't like it when Clay calls me MeeMee because it sounds like peepee.
Me: Well, I was called Buppie by my brother because he couldn't say Bethie.
Mal: Really! That's way better! It sounds like puppy.
Me: (Pausing...trying to think of something to say) Well, MeeMee sounds like Mermaid.
Mal: He can either call me Mermaid or Mallory.
Real nice. I know. It was a stretch...but I had to come up with something. And we didn't get anywhere! Go figure!
1. Vacation Bible School. We had the pleasure of being asked to join in our friend's VBS. It was SO much fun! And Mal truly enjoyed herself! My friend and I even got a few nights to ourselves--kidless (which had never happened before!). It was a LONG week (getting home at 9:30 every night or so and Jay being gone TWO of the nights) but it was SO fun to see Mal truly "Shine."
Monday, June 23, 2014
Top 10 for Week of June 9th
Top 10 for the Week:
June 9th, 2014
10. Gate GONE. Took down our baby gate this week. Its SO strange without it. But it was time. Both kids know how to open it and it was becoming more of a toy for Sir Clayton. Makes me sad though.
9. Leo Outside. Ummm....so strange. One morning this week, Jay went downstairs and heard Leo. Come to find out, he was stuck between the closed door and the screen door. He must have gotten out during the day sometime and got scared so jumped in through our holey screen and slept the rest of the night in that little space! There was cat hair everywhere! I felt extremely bad. Leo was frazzled. Went into hiding the rest of the day. I don't blame him. Must fix screen doors soon. On my honey-do-list.
8. Start of Summer. It's here! Can't believe it. Summer is starting off rocky with the kids. Ugh. BUT I started a "Rockstar Jar" that I found on Pinterest. When the kids get the pint jar filled with little rocks--they get a surprise. It's working. Hopefully it will all summer! Let's hope!
7. Library Sign-up. We signed up for the summer reading program in Decatur. In years past, I've tried doing two different library reading programs. Which has been crazy! This year, we are doing one...and the kids are loving picking out books (well, more Mal and Clay).
6. Blanket Time. This week was a bit chillier. So not so much playing in water weather. But we did spend an afternoon lying on blankets in the yard. It was so calming. Watched some clouds. Found a few animals in the clouds. Clay ate some grass. Watched some ants. My kids of afternoon.
5. Mal's First Friend Over. We were suppose to get together with a friend this past week and it didn't work out. Mal is still recovering from her recital...so it wasn't great timing (major tantrum from her!). I decided to give her school friend a call to see if she wanted to come over. And it totally worked out! I made strawberry shortcake while the kids played. I could hear Mal being a little bossy. So I intervened. I know. I should let it go, but it was her first real friend coming over. So, I wanted to make sure she knew how to get along with a "guest." Hopefully she'll want to come back:-)
4. Babysitting Daphne. We got a chance to babysit my friend's 6 month old. Mal was great but Clay was a bit too lovey and threw a few tantrums. Mal told me it must be because I was holding and playing with Daphne. Amazing to me how much she picks up on!:-) I felt pulled in a million directions. Kinda like having a 3rd child. Must remember this when I get the occasional baby fever! Ha! She is/was a great baby though. Making it much easier on this Momma.
3. Clayisms. Having a bit of a pooping problem. It seems hes become scared of doing it. Like he knows hes suppose to go in the potty not in his diaper...so he's been holding it. Making him constipated. Poor guy, went from going 2-3 a day to maybe going once. Seeing the look of fright in his eyes as you paces back and forth, makes me so sad. Hoping this phase passes soon! We went on a walk this week from the library to Jay's office. And Sir Clayton sure takes his time. I'm talking his sweet time. In fact, he even stopped on the way there and back to smell a flower from a planter. It was cute. And I have to remind myself to stop and slow down too...just like him. A great reminder.
2. Malloryisms. Lack of sleep really throws Mal off--but who doesn't have the same effect? It's been a rough week but I AM seeing glimpses of my girl. Maybe in a random hug or following my direction the first time. Even in a chore that I asked her to do this week. "Hey Mal, can you please set the table." Earlier in the week it was, "No." Today it was "Yes your majesty." with a HUGE smile on her face. Thank goodness. I've missed her. I also told her this week that her hugs make things better for me. So she informed me that "Maybe when you're mad, I can be your cuddlier-make-you-feel-better person." Ummmm....YES PLEASE! Am I really mad a lot lately?!?!? Oops.
1. Tigers Game! We went to our first Tigers game as a family! It was SO much fun! And the kids were MUCH better than I had anticipated. They were definitely worn out by the end of the day and both slept through the night. I just wish our kids would sleep in the car on trips. Makes for a VERY long car ride with cranky kids:-) But we survived and we had fun. Hopefully this will become an annual even for our family and my side of the family! We had a blast!
Summer is getting in the way of my posts. But I'm hoping to catch up every few weeks or so. Like on this rainy afternoon nap time:-)
Enjoy your day!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Top 7 for June 2nd, 2014
Top 7 for the Week:
June 2nd, 2014
7. Grumpy Kids. Help. My kids are seriously SO grumpy it's driving me crazy. But luckily I have a husband who totally gets it and steps in. We truly balanced each other out this week. I was able to get a few bike rides in and workout! It was a huge stress reliever for me.
6. Mal Graduation. Mass followed by a program that concluded Mal's preschool days. You could tell she was nervous but she did great on her speaking parts. This moment was SO bittersweet. She's ready. I know it. But it's hard for me to believe she'll be gone all day from me. Only my second year home and she's already heading there for a full day.
5. Mud Pile/Sprinkler FUN. Our outdoor sandbox is complete! So excited. Kids LOVE it. In fact, one night this week the kids played for awhile and were a mess. We turned on the sprinklers and let them take over their clothes. They enjoyed every second of just being kids on a summer day. It was so sweet to watch them truly enjoy themselves.
4. Potty Training! We had a HUGE breakthrough this week! He now shouts when he has to go pee! Like we haven't had a wet diaper in a week or so! But he refused to poop on the potty. Enough to make himself constipated. He gets so nervous to even poop in his diaper now because he knows what's going on. I'm just following his lead. Not pushing. Not shaming. Nothing. I have faith it will come. Hopefully before he's FOUR. And if not, I WILL be okay with it.
3. Clayisms. He truly is obsessed with his sister. We went to one of my nephews game the other night and he pushed his way between another kid Mal's age so that he could sit next to her. I thought it was adorable. He's also starting to retell which is a huge developmental stage for him. Sounds are still struggling. As well as my patience with him. Three is hard. But doubly hard with his language delay. It still gets to me. I'm learning to let some things go. But I still struggle on a daily basis.
2. Malloryisms. Big recital this past weekend which she LOVED the whole atmosphere. Got a chance to "chit chat", according to Mal, with her a bit this weekend due to the recital. Nice to catch up and reconnect with her. On the way home Saturday, she wanted to play the "sugar bowl" game. I could not for the life of me figure what she was talking about. Then it dawned on me the syllable game! I got a good chuckle out of that one. I was also able to witness Miss Mal protecting and sticking up for her little brother. There was another kid that was messing with Clay. She grabbed Clay, told the kid no and to stop it, and then continued to hug Clayton until he was better. Most adorable thing ever.
1. Mal's Dance Recital. It was truly a pleasure to watch Mal enjoy every single moment of her dance recital. She has grown to become quite outgoing and loves being around other kids her age and older. Her best performance was Saturday afternoon--which I was the only one there watching. I was extremely proud. She won 3 awards and a gift certificate for a camp this summer. Looking forward to watching her grow in dancing.
June 2nd, 2014
7. Grumpy Kids. Help. My kids are seriously SO grumpy it's driving me crazy. But luckily I have a husband who totally gets it and steps in. We truly balanced each other out this week. I was able to get a few bike rides in and workout! It was a huge stress reliever for me.
6. Mal Graduation. Mass followed by a program that concluded Mal's preschool days. You could tell she was nervous but she did great on her speaking parts. This moment was SO bittersweet. She's ready. I know it. But it's hard for me to believe she'll be gone all day from me. Only my second year home and she's already heading there for a full day.
5. Mud Pile/Sprinkler FUN. Our outdoor sandbox is complete! So excited. Kids LOVE it. In fact, one night this week the kids played for awhile and were a mess. We turned on the sprinklers and let them take over their clothes. They enjoyed every second of just being kids on a summer day. It was so sweet to watch them truly enjoy themselves.
4. Potty Training! We had a HUGE breakthrough this week! He now shouts when he has to go pee! Like we haven't had a wet diaper in a week or so! But he refused to poop on the potty. Enough to make himself constipated. He gets so nervous to even poop in his diaper now because he knows what's going on. I'm just following his lead. Not pushing. Not shaming. Nothing. I have faith it will come. Hopefully before he's FOUR. And if not, I WILL be okay with it.
3. Clayisms. He truly is obsessed with his sister. We went to one of my nephews game the other night and he pushed his way between another kid Mal's age so that he could sit next to her. I thought it was adorable. He's also starting to retell which is a huge developmental stage for him. Sounds are still struggling. As well as my patience with him. Three is hard. But doubly hard with his language delay. It still gets to me. I'm learning to let some things go. But I still struggle on a daily basis.
2. Malloryisms. Big recital this past weekend which she LOVED the whole atmosphere. Got a chance to "chit chat", according to Mal, with her a bit this weekend due to the recital. Nice to catch up and reconnect with her. On the way home Saturday, she wanted to play the "sugar bowl" game. I could not for the life of me figure what she was talking about. Then it dawned on me the syllable game! I got a good chuckle out of that one. I was also able to witness Miss Mal protecting and sticking up for her little brother. There was another kid that was messing with Clay. She grabbed Clay, told the kid no and to stop it, and then continued to hug Clayton until he was better. Most adorable thing ever.
1. Mal's Dance Recital. It was truly a pleasure to watch Mal enjoy every single moment of her dance recital. She has grown to become quite outgoing and loves being around other kids her age and older. Her best performance was Saturday afternoon--which I was the only one there watching. I was extremely proud. She won 3 awards and a gift certificate for a camp this summer. Looking forward to watching her grow in dancing.
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Changing with Age
It's amazing to me how much a mind and spirit can change with age.
I think about the start of my motherhood. All the oopsies I made. The cluelessness to my words and actions. And then I look at now. I am a completely different mother. Experience, books, advice, love. Changed me. Made me a better mother. The mother I wanted to be.
I think about the friendships I've had/have. Things I used to fret about then, are not important now. The importance of keeping warm, true, good friends around. Willingly making the effort in these relationships. And the goodness and benefits that are reaped from this!
I think about my marriage. How it's the same but different. We work as a team. Getting things done. Meeting the needs of our little ones. And each other. It definitely is changing. As our kids get older. As our hobbies change. As we figure out what we want for our family and what works best for us.
With age comes more forgiveness, more genuine love, more ambition to do what feels right.
And less desire to deal with people who do not have these qualities.
Top 10 for the Week:
May 26th, 2014
10. Constant Battle. I've come to the realization that I will more than likely battle anxiety and depression my whole life. It creeps up on me. Like I'm fine one day and then bam! It hits, full force. Out of nowhere. And I'm just a blubbering, anxious mess. It's horrible. Had a breaking point this week. BUT I am aware of my body and mind. I know when to get help. And I did. I feel SO much better. My weird/odd symptoms are finally disappearing. It's amazing to me how much your mind controls your body and spirit. I'm just SO extremely happy to be back...or CLOSE to back. All a work in progress right?!?! Anyone who battles this, knows how horrible it is and how consuming it becomes.
9. I DID IT! I reached out. Wrote a letter to an old friend I had a falling out with. Will be mailed out tomorrow. Another relief. Feelings and thoughts are down. And she will know soon.
8. Sandbox LOVE. Our kids LOVE sand. SO much that I decided it would be a great idea to make a bigger one for them!:o) Like we didn't have enough yard work/stuff to do. But I know it's important for the kids. So, Jay started it, and I finished it. He's out right now getting more sand for it. Kids already play in it several times a day. It's under a nice shaded tree by the swing set. They love it. Which I knew they would.
7. IEP. Clay had his IEP this past Friday. I had mixed feelings about this. Now that we are seeing our new speech therapist (whom we all LOVE), I was anxious (there it is again) to meet with the old. It was another struggle to get him out of the car. But I had the pleasure of meeting his teacher for next year. She was so sweet, warm, everything I would picture would be PERFECT for Sir Clayton. I mentioned that he was kinda loud and she said "Perfect! I'm loud too! We'll get along great!" Such a great attitude. He's going to LOVE her. He'll be going Tuesday-Thursday from 8:15-11:00 starting in the fall. SO hard to believe.
6. OUTDOORS. We have been enjoying our outdoor areas. Biking, swinging, swimming, chalk, garden, everything! Kids have been exhausted! Nothing like a little Vitamin D and fresh smells to make you feel great!
5. Memorial Day. We had a great Memorial Day with Jay's family. Went to the service in the morning and then headed over to my in laws. Spent the day on the boat and outside enjoying the nice weather. Kids found frogs, swam in the lake, ate cookie ice cream sandwiches, and enjoyed their cousins. It was great.
4. SPEECH. Have I told you how much I LOVE his new speech teacher? She is SO right for us. Her play therapy is SO right for him. He LOVES her. So, we had his IEP just before visiting Miss Dell--where he wouldn't get out of the car (bribed him finally with gum). While waiting in the parking lot to visit with Miss Dell (we were early), he kept saying "OUT!" "GO!" This week was kinda crazy--didn't get as much time to work with him as I would have liked too. But she noticed a difference! Said that my 5 minutes here and 5 minutes there are really working with him! And I agree. I cannot tell you how much joy and relief it brings me to have this new special person in our lives. She has totally given us HOPE.
3. Clayisms. Our little kiddie pool is his oasis. He will not get out of the pool ever. Between both of them, they could seriously wear their swimsuits all day and be totally content with it. And because he wears his swimsuit and does NOT like the feeling of the swim diaper, we've had huge success with potty training! He pooped two times on the potty yesterday!! Big doings here!!
2. Malloryisms. She's my little swinger:o) Even before 8:00 I can find her outside on the swing set, swinging. It's so cute. She's also become quite the social butterfly. She used to be so reserved and shy (like I used to be at her age) but now she really enjoys talking to whomever. She's growing up.
1. College Roommate. My college roommate and her husband came to visit us this past weekend for a night. I cannot tell you how much I enjoy her TRUE friendship. We don't talk or see each other as often as I would like, but we right away pick up where we left off and enjoy every single second we have together. Friendships like that are rare. Hard to find. And I am blessed to have her in my life. LOVE you Kelly Fornwalt.
The weekend is over!
Hello June!
Hello almost summer!
Have a great week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
I think about the start of my motherhood. All the oopsies I made. The cluelessness to my words and actions. And then I look at now. I am a completely different mother. Experience, books, advice, love. Changed me. Made me a better mother. The mother I wanted to be.
I think about the friendships I've had/have. Things I used to fret about then, are not important now. The importance of keeping warm, true, good friends around. Willingly making the effort in these relationships. And the goodness and benefits that are reaped from this!
I think about my marriage. How it's the same but different. We work as a team. Getting things done. Meeting the needs of our little ones. And each other. It definitely is changing. As our kids get older. As our hobbies change. As we figure out what we want for our family and what works best for us.
With age comes more forgiveness, more genuine love, more ambition to do what feels right.
And less desire to deal with people who do not have these qualities.
Top 10 for the Week:
May 26th, 2014
10. Constant Battle. I've come to the realization that I will more than likely battle anxiety and depression my whole life. It creeps up on me. Like I'm fine one day and then bam! It hits, full force. Out of nowhere. And I'm just a blubbering, anxious mess. It's horrible. Had a breaking point this week. BUT I am aware of my body and mind. I know when to get help. And I did. I feel SO much better. My weird/odd symptoms are finally disappearing. It's amazing to me how much your mind controls your body and spirit. I'm just SO extremely happy to be back...or CLOSE to back. All a work in progress right?!?! Anyone who battles this, knows how horrible it is and how consuming it becomes.
9. I DID IT! I reached out. Wrote a letter to an old friend I had a falling out with. Will be mailed out tomorrow. Another relief. Feelings and thoughts are down. And she will know soon.
8. Sandbox LOVE. Our kids LOVE sand. SO much that I decided it would be a great idea to make a bigger one for them!:o) Like we didn't have enough yard work/stuff to do. But I know it's important for the kids. So, Jay started it, and I finished it. He's out right now getting more sand for it. Kids already play in it several times a day. It's under a nice shaded tree by the swing set. They love it. Which I knew they would.
7. IEP. Clay had his IEP this past Friday. I had mixed feelings about this. Now that we are seeing our new speech therapist (whom we all LOVE), I was anxious (there it is again) to meet with the old. It was another struggle to get him out of the car. But I had the pleasure of meeting his teacher for next year. She was so sweet, warm, everything I would picture would be PERFECT for Sir Clayton. I mentioned that he was kinda loud and she said "Perfect! I'm loud too! We'll get along great!" Such a great attitude. He's going to LOVE her. He'll be going Tuesday-Thursday from 8:15-11:00 starting in the fall. SO hard to believe.
6. OUTDOORS. We have been enjoying our outdoor areas. Biking, swinging, swimming, chalk, garden, everything! Kids have been exhausted! Nothing like a little Vitamin D and fresh smells to make you feel great!
5. Memorial Day. We had a great Memorial Day with Jay's family. Went to the service in the morning and then headed over to my in laws. Spent the day on the boat and outside enjoying the nice weather. Kids found frogs, swam in the lake, ate cookie ice cream sandwiches, and enjoyed their cousins. It was great.
4. SPEECH. Have I told you how much I LOVE his new speech teacher? She is SO right for us. Her play therapy is SO right for him. He LOVES her. So, we had his IEP just before visiting Miss Dell--where he wouldn't get out of the car (bribed him finally with gum). While waiting in the parking lot to visit with Miss Dell (we were early), he kept saying "OUT!" "GO!" This week was kinda crazy--didn't get as much time to work with him as I would have liked too. But she noticed a difference! Said that my 5 minutes here and 5 minutes there are really working with him! And I agree. I cannot tell you how much joy and relief it brings me to have this new special person in our lives. She has totally given us HOPE.
3. Clayisms. Our little kiddie pool is his oasis. He will not get out of the pool ever. Between both of them, they could seriously wear their swimsuits all day and be totally content with it. And because he wears his swimsuit and does NOT like the feeling of the swim diaper, we've had huge success with potty training! He pooped two times on the potty yesterday!! Big doings here!!
2. Malloryisms. She's my little swinger:o) Even before 8:00 I can find her outside on the swing set, swinging. It's so cute. She's also become quite the social butterfly. She used to be so reserved and shy (like I used to be at her age) but now she really enjoys talking to whomever. She's growing up.
1. College Roommate. My college roommate and her husband came to visit us this past weekend for a night. I cannot tell you how much I enjoy her TRUE friendship. We don't talk or see each other as often as I would like, but we right away pick up where we left off and enjoy every single second we have together. Friendships like that are rare. Hard to find. And I am blessed to have her in my life. LOVE you Kelly Fornwalt.
The weekend is over!
Hello June!
Hello almost summer!
Have a great week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Top 10 (Not Finished)
Top 10 for the Week:
May 20th, 2014
10. FREE Car Washes.
9. Fly in the House.
8. Breakdown.
7. Challenge.
6. Graduation Party.
5. Family Shopping.
4. Fish Hatchery.
3. Clayisms.
2. Malloryisms.
1. Outdoors.
May 20th, 2014
10. FREE Car Washes.
9. Fly in the House.
8. Breakdown.
7. Challenge.
6. Graduation Party.
5. Family Shopping.
4. Fish Hatchery.
3. Clayisms.
2. Malloryisms.
1. Outdoors.
Top 8
Top 8 for the Week:
May 13th, 2014
8. Still Not Quite Right. Annoyed. Done with it.
7. Ticks. They have started. Not a fan people. I pulled one off the back of Mal's ear in dance class. Horrible.
6. Nap Dilemmas. To nap or not to? IF he naps, he's in a better mood, but goes to bed and wakes up during the nap. IF he doesn't nap, he's cranky at night, goes to bed early, and usually does not wake up at night. We are on about every 3rd to 4th day he takes a 2 hour nap.
5. Rain. Feels good to have some rain. I love the sound of it.
4. Tuesday Home. Jay's bowling is over. Golf has started. But it's Wednesdays. I don't know what it is about having him home on Tuesday that's so nice, but I appreciate it. A lot.
3. Ben Over. My nephew came over for the afternoon on Monday. The kids really enjoyed having him over. They were entertained all afternoon:o)
2. Outside ALL day. Early Bedtimes. Fairy Garden made. Flowerbeds cleaned out and ready to mulch.
1. Random Fun. New tennis shoes that fit. New shampoo that makes my hair smell good and act they way it should. Nana here. Papa here. Help with Clay at Mal's Tball. I love crafting. Another friend turned 3 this weekend--a super hero birthday party:o)
Short and sweet.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Top 10
Top 10 for the Week:
May 5th, 2014
10. Ill Feeling. He haven't been feeling my normal self lately. Not sure if it's stress, anxiety, or something else. But I'm done with it. And I'm starting to question what I started a year and a half ago. Which is SO scary to me.
9. Rough Bedtimes. Bedtime is the worst. And this week seemed especially hard.
8. Giving Gifts. One of my love languages is MOST definitely love of gifts. This is how I show my love towards others. AND I love making it homemade:o)
7. Mal's Game. So stinking adorable. She's getting to be quite the Tball player. So fun to watch.
6. Hudson's Bday. My nephew turned 2 this past weekend. We had such a good time visiting them in GR. He is getting SO big and saying so much. I know Clay and him will always be buds.
5. NEW Car. We no longer are van owners. It was time. We (I) didn't want another winter like this past winter. I'm looking forward to being able to get up my driveway EVERY day! Here's to little accomplishments! Ha!
4. Mother's Day. Was a great day. Jay let me sleep in, made me breakfast, went shopping for flowers, had lunch at Mongolian BBQ, came home, planted my flowers, had ice cream for dinner. Oh and grocery shopping alone! What more could I want?!!? Oh--and Mal even serenaded me in the car with her VERY own Mother's Day song. It was the best.
3. Clayisms. IS rough. It will not be easy. HE is not easy. They are long days. But I am trying my best. With support and help. We will get through this. (Side note: He will no longer go to the old speech. Ever since he has gone to the new one. I'm serious. He keeps repeating home. And he cries, kicks, anything to stay in the car. I am cancelling his last visit in order to not experience this again. Warms my heart that my boy knows. He knows.)
2. Malloryisms. She's SO interested in learning. She talks my ear off ALL day. Asking questions, stating observations. Never a dull moment with that lady. I love her desire to learn and experience everything. The outdoors. People. Activities. Foods. She'll try anything.
1. SUPER nice weather. The weather has been awesome! Love the warm-enough-weather to play in the water! Here's to being hopeful it doesn't stop!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
May 5th, 2014
10. Ill Feeling. He haven't been feeling my normal self lately. Not sure if it's stress, anxiety, or something else. But I'm done with it. And I'm starting to question what I started a year and a half ago. Which is SO scary to me.
9. Rough Bedtimes. Bedtime is the worst. And this week seemed especially hard.
8. Giving Gifts. One of my love languages is MOST definitely love of gifts. This is how I show my love towards others. AND I love making it homemade:o)
7. Mal's Game. So stinking adorable. She's getting to be quite the Tball player. So fun to watch.
6. Hudson's Bday. My nephew turned 2 this past weekend. We had such a good time visiting them in GR. He is getting SO big and saying so much. I know Clay and him will always be buds.
5. NEW Car. We no longer are van owners. It was time. We (I) didn't want another winter like this past winter. I'm looking forward to being able to get up my driveway EVERY day! Here's to little accomplishments! Ha!
4. Mother's Day. Was a great day. Jay let me sleep in, made me breakfast, went shopping for flowers, had lunch at Mongolian BBQ, came home, planted my flowers, had ice cream for dinner. Oh and grocery shopping alone! What more could I want?!!? Oh--and Mal even serenaded me in the car with her VERY own Mother's Day song. It was the best.
3. Clayisms. IS rough. It will not be easy. HE is not easy. They are long days. But I am trying my best. With support and help. We will get through this. (Side note: He will no longer go to the old speech. Ever since he has gone to the new one. I'm serious. He keeps repeating home. And he cries, kicks, anything to stay in the car. I am cancelling his last visit in order to not experience this again. Warms my heart that my boy knows. He knows.)
2. Malloryisms. She's SO interested in learning. She talks my ear off ALL day. Asking questions, stating observations. Never a dull moment with that lady. I love her desire to learn and experience everything. The outdoors. People. Activities. Foods. She'll try anything.
1. SUPER nice weather. The weather has been awesome! Love the warm-enough-weather to play in the water! Here's to being hopeful it doesn't stop!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
New Day
Last week, our son was diagnosed with apraxia.
Kind of a bittersweet moment for me.
As his mom, I had a gut instinct that there was something more.
His extreme effort in sounding out words that weren't coming out.
His word sounds changing every once and awhile.
His frustration. Our frustration.
There had to be something.
And I suppose it was the several professionals that reassured me,
That he really didn't need extra help.
That all he needed was a preschool setting.
That maybe he was tongue tied (which he is NOT).
Then it happened.
It only took one professional last week, 45 minutes.
One setting.
One boy with his mom, dad, and sister.
To tell us this.
Something we'd been waiting for a LONG time.
So I should be happy right.
We're on the right track.
I'm hopeful.
We're hopeful.
Given instructions.
A weekly session.
And I was last week.
But after today,
I'm sad. It's hard.
His constant screams. Tantrums. Unrecognizable words.
Trying so desperately to tell me something...
And I just can't understand him.
It's changing him.
It's changing ME.
And today,
I ignored. Yelled. Got frustrated. Did things I'm not proud of.
And now that he's sleeping in bed,
My heart hurts a little.
I'm thankful for a new day tomorrow.
For our bright boy to wake up with his giant smile upon his face.
I will not let this consume us.
And I will continue to let him be the boy he needs to be.
Top 10 for the Week:
April 28th, 2014
10. Good Hair Day. Of course I had a good hair day on Thursday last week. It was the day that I never left the house. Maybe that's why.
9. Playground Dates. Had a few dates at the playground this past week. It is SO nice to be outside. You don't realize how much you miss your outdoor playground until you are on it! However, my summer is going to be crazy chasing after Sir Clayton.
8. Easy, Crazy Weekend. Our weekend was a bit easy but crazy at the same time. NO real plans but the kids were sure acting up here and there. Not exactly sure why. But Jay and I were ready for a date night...which we didn't get.
7. Friday Coffee. So, I'm not suppose to have coffee anymore. BUT I've decided to give myself ONE cup every Friday. BOY do I look forward to this! And it went SO well with garage sales this past Friday:o)
6. Bunnies. Mal and Jay mowed the lawn this past week and found a bunny nest. They were the cutest thing ever! 6-7 of them! I was just as much into them as the kids!
5. Craft ON. My SIL came over this week and we crafted for HOURS. Like 5 hours! It was BLISS. And we did it with kids around. It also motivated me to do some more on my own. I find such pleasure in doing this. Who would have guessed that?!?!
4. SPEECH. We have a new private speech therapist that we will be going to. We LOVE her. I knew this would be a good fit for Clayton. I'm excited for what's in store for US.
3. Clayisms. Oh Clay has been picking the worst possible places to poop. Don't worry, it IS in his diapers. But it's at bad moments. This week it was in the NEW car we were test driving. Yeah, when I was dropping it off. They weren't opened yet. Good one Clay. (This week it was the chiropractor (no changing station, the dealership AGAIN, and a greenhouse). He even told me once this week at the playground that he had to poop "I poop" and wouldn't go on the potty. Clay had his 3 year check-up. 87% for height and 80% for weight. He looks so small compared to Mal that I think he's not as big for his size (Mal was always in the 90's). But he is. His sleep patterns have been really off lately. In fact, one morning he took a morning nap due to his not going to bed at night and then getting up several times. His parents are ready for a full night of sleep. We will see. This week Daddy has become DeeDee for no apparent reason (although our new speech told us this was totally normal for apraxia).
2. Malloryisms. She gets me. Truly gets me. And it scares me at times. We think and say the same things multiple times a day. And I make sure to tell her this every time it happens. She's also very motivated to do things when she wants to do them. This week, I told her how we could go on a nature hike--she was ALL about this. Before I could even get ready to go, she was ready! Boots, hat, vest on with her Amercian Girl Doll (Target really.). She also had brought up my hat, boot, and vest as well as all of Clay's. It was the sweetest thing. She was ready. For that nature hike! The morning Clay took a nap, I had my SIL pick up Mal. I had also had my MIL drop her off due to Clay's 3 year checkup. AND in the morning when I left, she was still sleeping. Which meant I had gone half of the day without seeing her. I can't tell you how bad I missed her! To be reunited with her at the park was so great! I have NO clue what I'm going to do next year when she's in kindergarten all day. BOO. A cute phrase this week that shows her vocabulary "Sometimes I recognize the cars as students from my school." Seriously. She's 5.
1. Garage Sales. Love them. Addicted to them. I never would have pictured myself going to them. But late last summer, I started. And let's just say that I might stop at one at least EVERY Friday. I found some great deals this week including some GeoTracks for the kids. Unbelievable.
Blogging is so therapeutic for me. It's like, once it's down, I feel better. Not completely better. But better. Like someone out there understands and gets it. Gets me. And it's reassuring. For the most part:o) Thank-you.
Here's to a better rest of the week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
(I've contemplated changing my name here. But it's like the ONLY thing I have left from teaching (besides the boxes in our basement). I find it rather fitting I should comment on this this week, since it IS teacher appreciation week. I love you my teacher friends! And support you. Thanks for ALL you do.)
Top 10--(Not totally finished)
I have to admit I've struggled blogging lately.
Finding the time is difficult.
So many other things that I feel I NEED to do.
But blogging is a passion of mine too.
I love recording
My thoughts.
My stories.
Our life.
And when I finish one,
I DO feel accomplished.
Proud.
Top 10 for the Week:
April 21st
10. Monday Blues. This past Monday was not my best day. I started with a flat tire at Clay's speech. After a nice towing service switched it out for me, I was in the grocery store and got a call about my debit card being breached. I honestly felt down all day. But I did accomplish a few phone calls (new speech for Clay, ordered cake, and a call to Terminex) that I have been meaning to do but just didn't have the time. Being stuck in a parking lot for awhile, can help you with that!:o)
9. Lazy Sunday. Yes it was. And it was great.
8. Leo Lost. While my mom was visiting, Leo was out more. Not sure if it was her, or just wanting to be around, but he was always within our eyesight. Then all of a sudden he was gone. We searched and searched and could not find him anywhere. There was about a four hour time span where we had NO clue where he was. We thought the worst--he had gotten outside somehow. After returning from Mal's T-ball practice, he finally joined us upstairs. NO clue where he was but glad he was there.
7. Impromptu Bathroom Redo. So, the Terminex guy came to take care of some ants in our downstairs bathroom. While he was here he noticed our bathroom toilet was cracked. Bad. Which meant we needed a new toilet. It took a few days to get the correct pieces for installing the toilet, but it's done! I also ended up painting the bathroom while the toilet was off. Looks great. And for the first time since we've lived here (and probably FOREVER in this house), we have a WHITE toilet. Goodbye yellow toilet and hopefully goodbye blue toilet in the near future. Makes both of us want to redo our bathrooms now! Oh updates are so fun. Ugh.
6. New Speech. Summer is truly around the corner. Which means, Clay's speech will be done until the fall. Jay and I have been meaning to try and find an outside speech therapist to work with Clay for the summer and even longer. I finally put a call into a woman who used to work at Western. I left a message explaining Clay and our situation. She called me back and told me she was overly booked. BUT due to my explanation of our son, she was willing to take him on:o) I love this. We meet her Tuesday--the ONLY time she had/has available. We will take it. The two of us talked for about 20 minutes. I'm really looking forward to this and what it means for our Clayton.
5. Nana here. My mom was here to help out a bit this week. IT was great having her here and we even got a few hours of shopping in together:o) Always a good time.
4. My Birthday. Yard Saling. Coffee. Lunch and Dinner OUT. What more could a girl ask for?
3. Clayisms.
2. Malloryisms.
1. Clay's Birthday Party. Huge success. Kids had fun. Parents had fun. Clay was a hoot! Couldn't go to bed after it was all over either! We are still recovering from his NO sleep then:o)
Finding the time is difficult.
So many other things that I feel I NEED to do.
But blogging is a passion of mine too.
I love recording
My thoughts.
My stories.
Our life.
And when I finish one,
I DO feel accomplished.
Proud.
Top 10 for the Week:
April 21st
10. Monday Blues. This past Monday was not my best day. I started with a flat tire at Clay's speech. After a nice towing service switched it out for me, I was in the grocery store and got a call about my debit card being breached. I honestly felt down all day. But I did accomplish a few phone calls (new speech for Clay, ordered cake, and a call to Terminex) that I have been meaning to do but just didn't have the time. Being stuck in a parking lot for awhile, can help you with that!:o)
9. Lazy Sunday. Yes it was. And it was great.
8. Leo Lost. While my mom was visiting, Leo was out more. Not sure if it was her, or just wanting to be around, but he was always within our eyesight. Then all of a sudden he was gone. We searched and searched and could not find him anywhere. There was about a four hour time span where we had NO clue where he was. We thought the worst--he had gotten outside somehow. After returning from Mal's T-ball practice, he finally joined us upstairs. NO clue where he was but glad he was there.
7. Impromptu Bathroom Redo. So, the Terminex guy came to take care of some ants in our downstairs bathroom. While he was here he noticed our bathroom toilet was cracked. Bad. Which meant we needed a new toilet. It took a few days to get the correct pieces for installing the toilet, but it's done! I also ended up painting the bathroom while the toilet was off. Looks great. And for the first time since we've lived here (and probably FOREVER in this house), we have a WHITE toilet. Goodbye yellow toilet and hopefully goodbye blue toilet in the near future. Makes both of us want to redo our bathrooms now! Oh updates are so fun. Ugh.
6. New Speech. Summer is truly around the corner. Which means, Clay's speech will be done until the fall. Jay and I have been meaning to try and find an outside speech therapist to work with Clay for the summer and even longer. I finally put a call into a woman who used to work at Western. I left a message explaining Clay and our situation. She called me back and told me she was overly booked. BUT due to my explanation of our son, she was willing to take him on:o) I love this. We meet her Tuesday--the ONLY time she had/has available. We will take it. The two of us talked for about 20 minutes. I'm really looking forward to this and what it means for our Clayton.
5. Nana here. My mom was here to help out a bit this week. IT was great having her here and we even got a few hours of shopping in together:o) Always a good time.
4. My Birthday. Yard Saling. Coffee. Lunch and Dinner OUT. What more could a girl ask for?
3. Clayisms.
2. Malloryisms.
1. Clay's Birthday Party. Huge success. Kids had fun. Parents had fun. Clay was a hoot! Couldn't go to bed after it was all over either! We are still recovering from his NO sleep then:o)
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Easter Weekend
Top 10 for the Week:
April 14th, 2014
10. Snow. Had a few more inches. Hate the snow. Glad it's gone. Hopefully FOR GOOD!
9. Farmer Love. So, we live down the road from a pretty big farm. Our kids LOVE it. They love the tractors, farmers, and watching them. Mal talks of them often. Referring to them as her friends that she waves at every day. Can't help but wave at a farmer:o)
8. Decatur Walk. One of the beautiful days this week, the kids and I headed to Raider Romp. Unfortunately it was closed. So we walked up to Jay's office. Both kids were great! No complaints and only one wish to be carried (from Clay early on in the walk). We all loved the exercise and fresh air.
7. Dump Day. It's like a holiday in this house. The four of us spent part of our Good Friday cleaning out our pole barn. Thank goodness for Dump Day. Goodbye old, broken things that were taking up space in the barn. Hello a little more organized! Only need a few shelves in there and it should be good to go! (The actual barn freaks me out--it's kinda scary. In a creepy way.)
6. Tball Practice. Mal had her first Tball practice this past week. It was SO adorable. She's much more serious this year than last. Paying attention, truly trying, and hitting the ball fairly well. Clay found out real quick that he's still too little to play. He was standing next to Mal with his glove and ball when he took a ball to the chest. He ran off the field crying and didn't venture back on. A bittersweet moment for this momma. Now at least he knows better:o) But the red circle mark on his chest looked like it hurt!
5. Warmer Weather. Loving it! Keep it coming!
4. Easter. We drove up north to celebrate Easter with my family. Kids didn't sleep all that well, but we had a great time visiting, coloring eggs, and spending time with my family. I LOVE my parent's new addition! SO much space now. For the kids to run, play, and sleep. It's great!
3. Clayisms. We've been making a push towards really getting him potty trained. He's doing well. It's more my part than his. Making sure I put him on the toilet and not letting him pee in his diaper. #2 is going to be a problem. But I'm just concentrating on pee for now. We are getting there! Clay turned three this week. I've heard more than once that it's the "trying threes." I honestly don't remember feeling this way with Mal, but I am there with Clay. It was like a few days before he turned three that I started feeling this quote was TRUE. He almost shoplifted a pack of gum! I mean, he's three. So it's not really shoplifting right?!?! He doesn't truly know what he is doing. But I turned my back at tractor supply for just a bit and I witnessed him zipping up his jacket pocket with GUM in it. I caught him, told him we had to buy it IF we wanted it. And that it wasn't okay to do this. But really?!?! I was shocked.
2. Malloryisms. Kids have been sleeping bad. And this in turn usually means they misbehave a little more. Okay, a LOT more. Mal gave me three NOs in just a few hours. NO I will not set the table (when normally she would just do it). NO I will not pick up my room. (Same thing). NO (and I can't remember the last one). Anyways, this is really unusual for her. It was hard this week. Extremely hard. But there were a few cute/good things. One night she fell asleep with her sunglasses on. I loved going in there ands seeing her bright pink shades on her face as she slept. We've also been working on spelling and sounding out words. As we were talking about the ending -UN, she added a L to it. We talked about how this really wasn't a word but then she added in how it could be lUNch. I was so impressed with this! I'm still shocked at how easy spelling/reading is starting to come to her and how she wants to learn. I was never like this. I struggled. It was hard for me. I hope and pray that this continues for her and that I am there to help facilitate this. That is why I am here. THIS is why I chose to stay home. I'm hoping to have a bit of time each day to do a little "homeschooling." That is my goal.
1. Good Friday. We spent the day doing things around the house--mainly outdoors. It was awesome. We accomplished so much as a family. And the kids loved being a part of it. Love days like that.
That's the week!
Hope you are doing well.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
April 14th, 2014
10. Snow. Had a few more inches. Hate the snow. Glad it's gone. Hopefully FOR GOOD!
9. Farmer Love. So, we live down the road from a pretty big farm. Our kids LOVE it. They love the tractors, farmers, and watching them. Mal talks of them often. Referring to them as her friends that she waves at every day. Can't help but wave at a farmer:o)
8. Decatur Walk. One of the beautiful days this week, the kids and I headed to Raider Romp. Unfortunately it was closed. So we walked up to Jay's office. Both kids were great! No complaints and only one wish to be carried (from Clay early on in the walk). We all loved the exercise and fresh air.
7. Dump Day. It's like a holiday in this house. The four of us spent part of our Good Friday cleaning out our pole barn. Thank goodness for Dump Day. Goodbye old, broken things that were taking up space in the barn. Hello a little more organized! Only need a few shelves in there and it should be good to go! (The actual barn freaks me out--it's kinda scary. In a creepy way.)
6. Tball Practice. Mal had her first Tball practice this past week. It was SO adorable. She's much more serious this year than last. Paying attention, truly trying, and hitting the ball fairly well. Clay found out real quick that he's still too little to play. He was standing next to Mal with his glove and ball when he took a ball to the chest. He ran off the field crying and didn't venture back on. A bittersweet moment for this momma. Now at least he knows better:o) But the red circle mark on his chest looked like it hurt!
5. Warmer Weather. Loving it! Keep it coming!
4. Easter. We drove up north to celebrate Easter with my family. Kids didn't sleep all that well, but we had a great time visiting, coloring eggs, and spending time with my family. I LOVE my parent's new addition! SO much space now. For the kids to run, play, and sleep. It's great!
3. Clayisms. We've been making a push towards really getting him potty trained. He's doing well. It's more my part than his. Making sure I put him on the toilet and not letting him pee in his diaper. #2 is going to be a problem. But I'm just concentrating on pee for now. We are getting there! Clay turned three this week. I've heard more than once that it's the "trying threes." I honestly don't remember feeling this way with Mal, but I am there with Clay. It was like a few days before he turned three that I started feeling this quote was TRUE. He almost shoplifted a pack of gum! I mean, he's three. So it's not really shoplifting right?!?! He doesn't truly know what he is doing. But I turned my back at tractor supply for just a bit and I witnessed him zipping up his jacket pocket with GUM in it. I caught him, told him we had to buy it IF we wanted it. And that it wasn't okay to do this. But really?!?! I was shocked.
2. Malloryisms. Kids have been sleeping bad. And this in turn usually means they misbehave a little more. Okay, a LOT more. Mal gave me three NOs in just a few hours. NO I will not set the table (when normally she would just do it). NO I will not pick up my room. (Same thing). NO (and I can't remember the last one). Anyways, this is really unusual for her. It was hard this week. Extremely hard. But there were a few cute/good things. One night she fell asleep with her sunglasses on. I loved going in there ands seeing her bright pink shades on her face as she slept. We've also been working on spelling and sounding out words. As we were talking about the ending -UN, she added a L to it. We talked about how this really wasn't a word but then she added in how it could be lUNch. I was so impressed with this! I'm still shocked at how easy spelling/reading is starting to come to her and how she wants to learn. I was never like this. I struggled. It was hard for me. I hope and pray that this continues for her and that I am there to help facilitate this. That is why I am here. THIS is why I chose to stay home. I'm hoping to have a bit of time each day to do a little "homeschooling." That is my goal.
1. Good Friday. We spent the day doing things around the house--mainly outdoors. It was awesome. We accomplished so much as a family. And the kids loved being a part of it. Love days like that.
That's the week!
Hope you are doing well.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Spring Break Week (AKA Best Week EVER!)
Top 10 for the Week:
April 7th, 2014
**Seriously, one of THE best weeks of the year! Hopefully this is a little taste of what summer will be like. To quote Mal, "I wish I didn't have school everyday so I could be home with you and Clay." I feel the same way honey.**
10. No Kitchen. I never realize how much I use my kitchen during the day until I'm without it for THREE. We had our kitchen back splash done. It took three days. Three days of me being out of the kitchen. Drove me nuts! End of story.
9. Alone Time.
8. Cranes. Cranes are back in full force. One day this week they (like 10-15 of them) decided to flock to our little island. It was SO neat. Kids loved it.
7. Grocery Store Self Serve. I have a new appreciation for the self serve checkout. I ended up having to take both kids to the grocery store with me (I dread!). On a whim, I decided to try out the self checkout. Kids LOVED it! Mal was the scanner, Clay and I bagged the items. It was a win-win for all. This WILL be a regular grocery store thing for the kids and me.
6. Park Days. Oh how I've missed park days. We were able to head to the park three days this past week! A bike ride up to the office, 2 picnic lunches, and just some plain fun with friends and family! I LOVE weeks like this. I can't wait for the summer:o)
5. Deck Dinners. We had 3-4 dinners our on our back deck. The best one was after a day of yard work, we ordered pizza and enjoyed a drink and dinner with the sunset. Couldn't get any better!
4. Mud and Horses. Mal has a friend named Raina whom she met in school. I've become friends with her mom because of their friendship. Raina has a younger brother close in age to Clayton. We immensely enjoy their company. They invited us out to their property where they have horses and mud. Kids enjoyed several horse rides and a walk in their woods that ended with a mud puddle. It was a whole day of sunshine, laughter, and good company. We enjoyed ourselves.
3. Clayisms. If you know Clay, you know he has this fear of bugs. Yes, he's all boy. Yet he fears bugs. You also know that it is difficult to get him out of the bathtub. However, pairing these two things together is not such a bad idea:o) A lady bug fell into his bath water this week and he freaked! Jumped out right away! I've found my solution to his delay in getting out of the tub. Clay has really been watching Mal while she learns her letters. This week on our chalkboard--he wrote a letter C. A small gesture that makes me so proud! I hope he has his sister's desire to learn:o)
2. Malloryisms. Mal used to be extremely shy--not wanting to talk to anyone and keeping to herself. She's really started opening up. I accredit it to preschool, dance, and Tball. This week she made several friends at the park:o) It was adorable. "You're my new friend, because I've never met you before." Of course I'm still a little hesitant about this--who wouldn't be? But I feel good about her openness to others. We also had a chance to cook together this week when Sir Clayton was down for a nap. It was so enjoyable working together, laughing, enjoying each other. She also had a chance to hang out with our friend, Kim for several hours. They were working on her Relay for Life car. She came home all excited stating that "we had the best fun ever, ever!" Funny saying this week: "Hopefully sooner than later" referring to seeing Nana.
1a. Warmer Weather! This warmer weather is such a treasure. Having the windows open, enjoying what our backyard has to offer, has really helped our moods and bodies. We spend ALL day Saturday outdoors and LOVED it. ALL of us.
1b. Spring Break Goodness. This week has been pure joy. Excited for what our summer will bring.
Late.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
April 7th, 2014
**Seriously, one of THE best weeks of the year! Hopefully this is a little taste of what summer will be like. To quote Mal, "I wish I didn't have school everyday so I could be home with you and Clay." I feel the same way honey.**
10. No Kitchen. I never realize how much I use my kitchen during the day until I'm without it for THREE. We had our kitchen back splash done. It took three days. Three days of me being out of the kitchen. Drove me nuts! End of story.
9. Alone Time.
8. Cranes. Cranes are back in full force. One day this week they (like 10-15 of them) decided to flock to our little island. It was SO neat. Kids loved it.
7. Grocery Store Self Serve. I have a new appreciation for the self serve checkout. I ended up having to take both kids to the grocery store with me (I dread!). On a whim, I decided to try out the self checkout. Kids LOVED it! Mal was the scanner, Clay and I bagged the items. It was a win-win for all. This WILL be a regular grocery store thing for the kids and me.
6. Park Days. Oh how I've missed park days. We were able to head to the park three days this past week! A bike ride up to the office, 2 picnic lunches, and just some plain fun with friends and family! I LOVE weeks like this. I can't wait for the summer:o)
5. Deck Dinners. We had 3-4 dinners our on our back deck. The best one was after a day of yard work, we ordered pizza and enjoyed a drink and dinner with the sunset. Couldn't get any better!
4. Mud and Horses. Mal has a friend named Raina whom she met in school. I've become friends with her mom because of their friendship. Raina has a younger brother close in age to Clayton. We immensely enjoy their company. They invited us out to their property where they have horses and mud. Kids enjoyed several horse rides and a walk in their woods that ended with a mud puddle. It was a whole day of sunshine, laughter, and good company. We enjoyed ourselves.
3. Clayisms. If you know Clay, you know he has this fear of bugs. Yes, he's all boy. Yet he fears bugs. You also know that it is difficult to get him out of the bathtub. However, pairing these two things together is not such a bad idea:o) A lady bug fell into his bath water this week and he freaked! Jumped out right away! I've found my solution to his delay in getting out of the tub. Clay has really been watching Mal while she learns her letters. This week on our chalkboard--he wrote a letter C. A small gesture that makes me so proud! I hope he has his sister's desire to learn:o)
2. Malloryisms. Mal used to be extremely shy--not wanting to talk to anyone and keeping to herself. She's really started opening up. I accredit it to preschool, dance, and Tball. This week she made several friends at the park:o) It was adorable. "You're my new friend, because I've never met you before." Of course I'm still a little hesitant about this--who wouldn't be? But I feel good about her openness to others. We also had a chance to cook together this week when Sir Clayton was down for a nap. It was so enjoyable working together, laughing, enjoying each other. She also had a chance to hang out with our friend, Kim for several hours. They were working on her Relay for Life car. She came home all excited stating that "we had the best fun ever, ever!" Funny saying this week: "Hopefully sooner than later" referring to seeing Nana.
1a. Warmer Weather! This warmer weather is such a treasure. Having the windows open, enjoying what our backyard has to offer, has really helped our moods and bodies. We spend ALL day Saturday outdoors and LOVED it. ALL of us.
1b. Spring Break Goodness. This week has been pure joy. Excited for what our summer will bring.
Late.
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Monday, April 14, 2014
Top 5 for 3-30-14
Top 5 for the Week:
March 30th, 2014
This week seemed short. With Spring Break and all. And the kids at my parents for 3 WHOLE days. Only top 5.
5. Jay's Surgery. Jay had surgery this week to remove a cyst that was on the back of his head. Everything went great! I was extremely pleased with Borgess (we never go there) and he was back to normal in record time. Kids at fun playing at my SIL. Glad it's done. It was multiplying! Could have been HUGE in a few weeks.
4. Boy Pics. Took the boy to get his 3 year pictures done. I had planned on doing it during Mal's school time. Well, I forgot it was Spring Break and she had that Friday off. It ended up being a blessing. She was SO helpful. He didn't want to do any pose until Mal did it first. And Miss Mal enjoyed doing it as well! Photographer said he was the best 3 year old she's ever had! Proud Momma here. Can't wait to get them back.
3. Clayisms. Clay is a dare devil. Serious. I am SO extremely nervous about him. I'm not exactly sure what to do about it. Just a helmet doesn't seem enough. It's crazy. He can be so CRAZY and then SO sweet. In fact, he uses hugs and kisses to make things "better." Another sweet story, when I went to pick up the kids in Holland, he didn't see me come into the restaurant. Once he realized who was next to him, he would not let go of my neck. And would not let go of me the rest of the day. I almost forgot about his Dum-Dum sucker experience. On the way home from school at like 8:30 in the morning, I gave him a small dum-dum sucker. Yes, I know. But hey--you do what you gotta do. Anyways, he chopped down on it hard! Enough to cause gushing blood everywhere! It was bad. Freaked me out a bit (as usual). I ended up having him be seen by the dentist. Everything checked out fine but he still hasn't had a Dum-Dum sucker since the episode.
2. Malloryisms. Mal is a lover of all foods and this week she tried RAW brussel sprouts. Yeah, I was shocked. She loved them. We call ourselves the brussel sprout girls and we have them every week:0) Another big THING at our house this week--Mal can wipe #2. Enough said. Big deal here. Now we just need to work on Clayton being potty trained. No big sayings this week.
1. Crush It Weekend. My parents met the kids and I in Holland on Thursday. We hung out for a bit and then they left. I went shopping for a few things and then headed home. Which started our crush it weekend. It is amazing to me how much stuff I got done and how much MORE I still have to do! Got some major task accomplished--master closet cleaned, playroom painted/sorted, garage cleaned/sorted, fabric behind shelves, cleaned whole house, and other little things that I felt the need to do because we didn't have kids. We also had several date nights (one big one), slept in, and stayed up late. Let's just say I was recovering a bit on Monday. Man, was I tired!:o) It was great to have some alone time with just US...even though I missed the kids terribly (I think I missed them more than they missed me). But it was great to reconnect with my man. I love him so. I love his jokes. I love his laidbackness. I love his company. I love him. I love us.
Sunday FUNday. After going to get the kids, we had a chance to enjoy some warmer weather together. Mal used her bike without training wheels and was a real champ! And Clay was finally able to use his tricycle that we've had for a few years now!
Great week!
Great weekend!
Spring break...next week!
Until next week,
Mrs. Newell
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Top 10
Top 10 for the Week:
March 24th, 2014
10. Sickness. Mal was sick with a cold/cough for like over 2 weeks (in fact, she's still battling it a bit). Nothing like no school and being confined inside. It was great. NOT. However, she did say the sweetest thing. "It makes me really happy to get to spend more time with you guys." Not going to school=more time with Momma and Clay.
9. Rain. Lots of rain this week. Which I know is good. It makes the snow go away. But where is our warmer, beautiful weather?!?!
8. Kindergarten Roundup. Mal had her kindergarten roundup this past Monday. It was SO great seeing familiar faces. Greeting people. Mal loved it. She's ready. I'm not. But I think that's how it normally goes. She told the lady giving her the assessment that her mom doesn't work anymore. When asked what her parent's like to do? "Mom likes to quilt and dad works." Ha! A few years ago that would have been totally different!
7. Friend Over. Mal had her first friend over without her parents accompanying. It was so cute. She was SO excited. The little girl has been over numerous times in the past--but always with her parents. Mal just kept starring at her.
6.
5. 75 years. This year marks 75 years with Auto-Owners Insurance for Jay's business. We had the privilege of going and celebrating in Lansing with a grand tour and wonderful dinner. What an accomplishment.
4. GR Visit. We headed to GR for the Dino Exhibit. Kids enjoyed it. I think I enjoyed the other exhibits more:o) Nature/pond one was great! Especially since we have one in our backyard. We spent the morning there, then met my parents for lunch, and then headed over to my brother's. We had a chance to see my nephew, who is getting SO big. He was giving Mal a hug and she responded "I love you too Hudson." So sweet.
3. Clayisms. He IS ON THE MOVE. I swear I'm just going to buy him a helmet and make him where it every time we are outside. He is such a dare devil it scares me. No fear is not good for this momma. On a good note, this week he's been eating more meats. Pork tenderloin and chicken! It's crazy--he would have never ate this before! We have turned a corner people!
2. Malloryisms. No big things with Mal this week. But lots of sayings.
"They're probably in bed." (6:42PM on a weekday-she's referring to Nana and Papa).
"I like it better than all the states." (Michigan of course).
"This is the worst day ever, ever, ever, ever, ever." (Yes. I'm a mean mom.)
"Deer meat is not my thing." (Jay and I couldn't stop laughing at this when she said it so matter of factly).
I've started teaching her how to read--sounding out words and such. She's at the perfect stage right now--so eager to learn and know how to read and write. So I'm going with it!:o)
1. Sunday Outdoors. It was beautiful outdoors on Sunday. We spent the majority outside--like 4-5 hours with the kids. They LOVED it. We even had dinner outside on the back deck. It was bliss. Nothing like back porch living:o)
Until next time,
Mrs. Newell
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