This is a little late, but just wanted to give a shout out to my mom, my sis, my cousin, and my little girl.
Y'all know I hate to shop (except for groceries and running clothes, go figure...), but I was really in need of some new clothes, and these ladies spent part of our girls' weekend helping me find some. Four {four!} pairs of jeans, several tees, tops, & tanks, and even a summer dress (on clearance!) later, I'm well ahead of the game. Most of y'all are thinking, "Isn't girls' weekend all about shopping?" Maybe, but not of the "I'm desperate, the seasons are changing and I have no pants" variety. And besides, we like to eat and then check out the clearance racks at Target. These ladies took me to the mall!
And my little girl, well, she is not only growing up into a responsible young lady, but she's got a great sense of style, too. Not to mention her awesome sense of humor! We had some awesome mom-and-daughter time on the drive down and back.
It would be a shame if I didn't mention that my husband and son enjoyed their weekend, too. My son asked me last night if we could have kid-and-parent time every weekend! Or at least more often :)
I think it's a wonderful idea!
Showing posts with label Son. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Son. Show all posts
Monday, September 30, 2013
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
First Day of Summer Break - 2013
Technically, it's not M's first day of break - last Thursday was her last day - but today was J's first day of break. To me, it's the first day of summer because the lunch-packing and taxiing about is over for just a little while.
Today has been such a fun, cool, special day that I wanted to post a quick rundown.
Here's my Facebook status from mid-afternoon:
Today's Top 5 (and it's not even 5pm):
1) Getting my run in first thing this morning
2) Getting the boy off to camp (big smile from him and no tears from me!)
3) Making orange-mango creamsicles with the girl
4) Chocolate cayenne protein bites in the fridge (recipe from A Foodie Stays Fit)
5) Fun things in the mail from new friends
That's a pretty good start to summer vacation, I think!
I met my best running friend at 6:15am. It was already warm then, and I've had a short break from running, so today seemed especially hard. But I was out there and I got the miles in. And going for a run just makes me feel good!
(I didn't even include the yummy breakfast I made in the top 5. I did that as soon as I got home - I was hungry! Bacon, roasted lemon thyme asparagus, and baked eggs. A one dish meal, and I put some sliced tomatoes on the side. My husband ate it, but I don't think he's convinced that meal is really 'breakfast.')
The end of the school year for J meant saying goodbye to J's teacher of the past two years. I thought I would be a wreck - she is such a treasure, and she loves not just J, but all of us! I made it through yesterday okay, but figured sending him off to camp this morning would really be hard on my mama heart. After breakfast and a shower, I dropped him off for his ride to camp (he rode with a couple other boys and their dads/leaders).
M and I spent some time in the kitchen today. I haven't been in the kitchen for anything besides just regular meals lately, so making some special treats was wonderful! We took a basic recipe and made our own variation with what we had on hand - that became the creamsicles. We had fun tasting as we went, deciding how much vanilla we needed and realizing we didn't need all the honey the recipe called for (glad we only added a little at a time!).
A friend of mine from college organizes a fun little "swap" between her Instagram friends called #flappymail. I'm trying it for the first time, and my goodies came today. They are just perfect! I will send my package off pretty soon, and I'm excited for my 'person' to get her package.
And the rest of the day kept on in the same vein. M and I went to the local running store. I picked up my new running shoes, a belated Mother's Day gift, and also found a new pair of shoes for M, too (on sale!).
Maggie had a little bummer of a situation to deal with, the result of a misunderstanding, and she was very calm and mature in working through her disappointment and finding the silver lining. I was so proud of her, and I'm not sure that I can even express to her just how proud. But I did take my big girl - whose love language is gifts - out for a sweet treat at her favorite local ice cream shop. As we were headed in for ice cream, we happened to see J's teacher coming out of another store in the shopping center. We had a brief visit (Maggie had actually called out to her to day hello) before heading into the ice cream shop.
After that, we headed home to try out our new shoes with a quick dash up the street and back. Of course, with those speedy new shoes on, M was the fastest! Our plan is to really break them in at the Popsicle Fun Run tomorrow evening.
Shortly afterwards, M's fourth tooth fell out! We knew it wouldn't make it to the weekend :)
And then - then! - we worked together on dinner. Spaghetti and meatballs (M helped mix and shape the meatballs), a salad (M helped prepare nearly every item), and popsicles for dessert (ones we made earlier in the day; and yes, she had dessert before and after dinner!). I adjusted the meatball recipe a bit, but started with the basic recipe from The Mom 100 Cookbook. This cookbook is fantastic! It was a gift last Christmas, and it's the one I pull out most often right now. The vinaigrette recipes - yum! The marinated flank steak - tasty! The chicken tenders - oh, my! I have even given this one as a gift - I love it that much!
Big J and I enjoyed every bit of dinnertime conversation with our girl this evening. She is just a riot - and she really has some time to shine while her brother's at camp.
Then she watched a bit of a hockey game - to the extent of cheering for a particular team - before declaring hockey "violent"! So then we switched to a show about building tree houses and snuggled a bit on the sofa. Love her....
Switching gears to the boy at camp - wow, it's different with him gone. I had the opportunity to go with him, but I am so glad we decided that he should attend solo if possible (we had to find another parent going who would be J's "adult" for the week, which we were able to do). But this is a time for him to shine, too. He really needs this chance to just be himself, be responsible, and make his own choices. Of course, I spent time with him packing, talking about some of the non-negotiable things (like brushing teeth, sunscreen, etc.), and telling him that I know he can do it. And I tucked a note into his bag when we wasn't looking. He should find it tomorrow night :) And we have seen a picture of him with a smile on his face waiting in line for dinner - so that did a mama heart good.
This is an all-over-the-place post, so here's the summary:
What an awesome first day of summer break - for all of us!
Today has been such a fun, cool, special day that I wanted to post a quick rundown.
Here's my Facebook status from mid-afternoon:
Today's Top 5 (and it's not even 5pm):
1) Getting my run in first thing this morning
2) Getting the boy off to camp (big smile from him and no tears from me!)
3) Making orange-mango creamsicles with the girl
4) Chocolate cayenne protein bites in the fridge (recipe from A Foodie Stays Fit)
5) Fun things in the mail from new friends
That's a pretty good start to summer vacation, I think!
I met my best running friend at 6:15am. It was already warm then, and I've had a short break from running, so today seemed especially hard. But I was out there and I got the miles in. And going for a run just makes me feel good!
(I didn't even include the yummy breakfast I made in the top 5. I did that as soon as I got home - I was hungry! Bacon, roasted lemon thyme asparagus, and baked eggs. A one dish meal, and I put some sliced tomatoes on the side. My husband ate it, but I don't think he's convinced that meal is really 'breakfast.')
(Nor did I mention the three paintings M worked on this morning. She was so happy to get paints and canvases out!)
The end of the school year for J meant saying goodbye to J's teacher of the past two years. I thought I would be a wreck - she is such a treasure, and she loves not just J, but all of us! I made it through yesterday okay, but figured sending him off to camp this morning would really be hard on my mama heart. After breakfast and a shower, I dropped him off for his ride to camp (he rode with a couple other boys and their dads/leaders).
M and I spent some time in the kitchen today. I haven't been in the kitchen for anything besides just regular meals lately, so making some special treats was wonderful! We took a basic recipe and made our own variation with what we had on hand - that became the creamsicles. We had fun tasting as we went, deciding how much vanilla we needed and realizing we didn't need all the honey the recipe called for (glad we only added a little at a time!).
A friend of mine from college organizes a fun little "swap" between her Instagram friends called #flappymail. I'm trying it for the first time, and my goodies came today. They are just perfect! I will send my package off pretty soon, and I'm excited for my 'person' to get her package.
And the rest of the day kept on in the same vein. M and I went to the local running store. I picked up my new running shoes, a belated Mother's Day gift, and also found a new pair of shoes for M, too (on sale!).
 | ||
| Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 |
After that, we headed home to try out our new shoes with a quick dash up the street and back. Of course, with those speedy new shoes on, M was the fastest! Our plan is to really break them in at the Popsicle Fun Run tomorrow evening.
Shortly afterwards, M's fourth tooth fell out! We knew it wouldn't make it to the weekend :)
And then - then! - we worked together on dinner. Spaghetti and meatballs (M helped mix and shape the meatballs), a salad (M helped prepare nearly every item), and popsicles for dessert (ones we made earlier in the day; and yes, she had dessert before and after dinner!). I adjusted the meatball recipe a bit, but started with the basic recipe from The Mom 100 Cookbook. This cookbook is fantastic! It was a gift last Christmas, and it's the one I pull out most often right now. The vinaigrette recipes - yum! The marinated flank steak - tasty! The chicken tenders - oh, my! I have even given this one as a gift - I love it that much!
Big J and I enjoyed every bit of dinnertime conversation with our girl this evening. She is just a riot - and she really has some time to shine while her brother's at camp.
Then she watched a bit of a hockey game - to the extent of cheering for a particular team - before declaring hockey "violent"! So then we switched to a show about building tree houses and snuggled a bit on the sofa. Love her....
Switching gears to the boy at camp - wow, it's different with him gone. I had the opportunity to go with him, but I am so glad we decided that he should attend solo if possible (we had to find another parent going who would be J's "adult" for the week, which we were able to do). But this is a time for him to shine, too. He really needs this chance to just be himself, be responsible, and make his own choices. Of course, I spent time with him packing, talking about some of the non-negotiable things (like brushing teeth, sunscreen, etc.), and telling him that I know he can do it. And I tucked a note into his bag when we wasn't looking. He should find it tomorrow night :) And we have seen a picture of him with a smile on his face waiting in line for dinner - so that did a mama heart good.
This is an all-over-the-place post, so here's the summary:
What an awesome first day of summer break - for all of us!
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Honestly, 2nd ed.
After a low-key morning, I spent the afternoon checking a few things off of my to-do list while I let my kids watch a movie and eat jello and popcorn for dinner. The big kid just finished EOGs today - and honestly, I'm feeling a little "yeah, whatever..." after a couple of rule-filled, potentially stressful days. I really think schools put too much emphasis on this, and (I am not a fan of standardized testing, especially for ants-in-the-pants, 3rd grade boys.)
I did redeem this less-than-impressive dinner with some fruit and chicken quesadillas a little later. And there may or may not have been some chocolate-covered pretzels involved, too.
At bedtime, we read about Laura and Mary and Carrie and Grace and Ma and Pa having Christmas Dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Boast "By the Shores of Silver Lake" - and then they were both "hungry" again. How can roast duck made on a coal-buring stove 150+ years ago make them hungry when they won't even eat a roast chicken that I cook present-day? All joking aside, we have been slowly working our way through the Little House series since our camping vacation last summer. (It's what M picked, while J picked the Harry Potter series.) The kids are both enjoying the stories, we get in a little conversation about manners or vocabulary words or history here and there, and I'm enjoying the time to sit with them as we slow down at the end of the day (I read to them at bedtime). We don't get to it every night, but they miss it when we don't get to read. Honestly, I do too.
I did redeem this less-than-impressive dinner with some fruit and chicken quesadillas a little later. And there may or may not have been some chocolate-covered pretzels involved, too.
At bedtime, we read about Laura and Mary and Carrie and Grace and Ma and Pa having Christmas Dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Boast "By the Shores of Silver Lake" - and then they were both "hungry" again. How can roast duck made on a coal-buring stove 150+ years ago make them hungry when they won't even eat a roast chicken that I cook present-day? All joking aside, we have been slowly working our way through the Little House series since our camping vacation last summer. (It's what M picked, while J picked the Harry Potter series.) The kids are both enjoying the stories, we get in a little conversation about manners or vocabulary words or history here and there, and I'm enjoying the time to sit with them as we slow down at the end of the day (I read to them at bedtime). We don't get to it every night, but they miss it when we don't get to read. Honestly, I do too.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Overheard #46
Mr. J is watching a movie that he has seen many times. He has the words pretty much memorized. As he is saying one character's part, along with the movie, he follows it up with:
Jinx! He owes me a Coke!
Jinx! He owes me a Coke!
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Overheard #42 and #43
My 8.5 year old son: "Mom, Michaelangelo is one of the Ninja Turtles' names!"
Me: "I know - the Ninja Turtles have been around since I was a kid!"
My dear, sweet, 8.5 year old son: "But in black and white, right?
Heh. Maybe I am that old ;)
And other good one for you - it's one that he doesn't like for me to mention but that I find utterly adorable.
Last school year, Mister J's class had studied a bit of history that really stood out to him. That day, he came home explaining that he had learned about some things that happened, "...way back in the Nineteens." Big J and I now use this phrase when we talk about things that happened a while back - like graduating from high school, getting married, buying our first house. We find it so sweet, and just a little funny - and it just gives us a happy feeling to remember our boy saying it.
So, even though I wonder some days if I am "old," I keep reminding myself of what I've always believed - age is a state of mind. Apparently, I'm not alone. Hop on over and read this great post by Tsh over at Simple Mom. I, too, agree that the 30s are my favorite decade so far. And I think the 40s are gonna totally rock!
Me: "I know - the Ninja Turtles have been around since I was a kid!"
My dear, sweet, 8.5 year old son: "But in black and white, right?
Heh. Maybe I am that old ;)
And other good one for you - it's one that he doesn't like for me to mention but that I find utterly adorable.
Last school year, Mister J's class had studied a bit of history that really stood out to him. That day, he came home explaining that he had learned about some things that happened, "...way back in the Nineteens." Big J and I now use this phrase when we talk about things that happened a while back - like graduating from high school, getting married, buying our first house. We find it so sweet, and just a little funny - and it just gives us a happy feeling to remember our boy saying it.
So, even though I wonder some days if I am "old," I keep reminding myself of what I've always believed - age is a state of mind. Apparently, I'm not alone. Hop on over and read this great post by Tsh over at Simple Mom. I, too, agree that the 30s are my favorite decade so far. And I think the 40s are gonna totally rock!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Random Ramblings
Only my mind works this way....
- I can figure out a puzzle on Wheel of Fortune with only 4 letters in place
- I can answer the Final Jeopardy! question about a sci-fi movie when I'm not even a sci-fi fan (unlike the other 75% of our household)
- And then this.... While starting a load of jeans, I decide to wash the pair I'm wearing. So I take them off in front of the washer (this part is important). When moving the load to the dryer, I realize that my jeans are not in the load. What?!? That's right, I took them off standing in the laundry room yet did not put them in the washer. Yep, that's me - the easily-distracted one.
"I Can't Believe She Said That" moment of the day - #1
While playing a video game with her brother - one in which the car you control shoots exhaust/fire at other cars: "Taste my hotness!"
I suppose it's the fire version of 'eat my dust'?
"I Can't Believe She Said That" moment of the day #2
To her brother - "You know, you really make me mad a lot!"
So glad she's expressing herself, but it still makes me giggle because I know that she loves him a lot!
M has always been a little dramatic, but lately the drama/attitude has been increasing. Although it's challenging, I sometimes find it hard to keep a straight face. She's only five, but sometimes she sounds soo much older!
Made Me Smile Moment:
After J went to bed, I sat down to finalize some of the plans for his birthday and send out a few email invites. When I realized - due to some scheduling details - that our plans would have to be adjusted a bit, I was worried about J being disappointed. I scooted back upstairs to do a quick check-in with him before he fell asleep (really needed to get emails out tonight!). I explained that part of the plan might have to change, and suggested an alternative. The darkness of his room could not hide his excitement. Even better - the thank-you that I got when I told J that I have an email address for someone new to his class this year. He was so worried he would not be able to invite his new friend (since we aren't supposed to hand out invites at school). For as often as I have to be the homework/rule/schedule enforcer, it sure was nice to spend a few moments talking about something really exciting!
I'm in an exercise slump lately. Even though I'm volunteer coaching with the same program I used to train with, I'm just not loving running right now. I enjoy bike riding, but seriously need to get some appropriate gear (read: shorts with the appropriate cushioning for trail riding...) before I do much more of that. I'm also hoping to purchase a new-to-us bike trailer for M, who is a reluctant rider. I hear they can be challenging to tow, but it's either that or no family rides until she's more confident. With days like today (high near 70!), I don't want to waste the opportunity to get outside and get moving. We won't have many more days like this for a while!
I love Thanksgiving. I don't like that so many stores and homes have their Christmas decorations up already. It seems we practically ignore this holiday. I know - it's just not a retail-heavy holiday, so stores are looking ahead to the next money-maker. Perhaps I'm also a little sensitive since there's a December birthday in this family, so I want to give that celebration the attention it deserves, too (though J did ask last year why we were so late decorating for Christmas).
If you're still reading - wow. And thanks! And Happy Thanksgiving!
- I can figure out a puzzle on Wheel of Fortune with only 4 letters in place
- I can answer the Final Jeopardy! question about a sci-fi movie when I'm not even a sci-fi fan (unlike the other 75% of our household)
- And then this.... While starting a load of jeans, I decide to wash the pair I'm wearing. So I take them off in front of the washer (this part is important). When moving the load to the dryer, I realize that my jeans are not in the load. What?!? That's right, I took them off standing in the laundry room yet did not put them in the washer. Yep, that's me - the easily-distracted one.
"I Can't Believe She Said That" moment of the day - #1
While playing a video game with her brother - one in which the car you control shoots exhaust/fire at other cars: "Taste my hotness!"
I suppose it's the fire version of 'eat my dust'?
"I Can't Believe She Said That" moment of the day #2
To her brother - "You know, you really make me mad a lot!"
So glad she's expressing herself, but it still makes me giggle because I know that she loves him a lot!
M has always been a little dramatic, but lately the drama/attitude has been increasing. Although it's challenging, I sometimes find it hard to keep a straight face. She's only five, but sometimes she sounds soo much older!
Made Me Smile Moment:
After J went to bed, I sat down to finalize some of the plans for his birthday and send out a few email invites. When I realized - due to some scheduling details - that our plans would have to be adjusted a bit, I was worried about J being disappointed. I scooted back upstairs to do a quick check-in with him before he fell asleep (really needed to get emails out tonight!). I explained that part of the plan might have to change, and suggested an alternative. The darkness of his room could not hide his excitement. Even better - the thank-you that I got when I told J that I have an email address for someone new to his class this year. He was so worried he would not be able to invite his new friend (since we aren't supposed to hand out invites at school). For as often as I have to be the homework/rule/schedule enforcer, it sure was nice to spend a few moments talking about something really exciting!
I'm in an exercise slump lately. Even though I'm volunteer coaching with the same program I used to train with, I'm just not loving running right now. I enjoy bike riding, but seriously need to get some appropriate gear (read: shorts with the appropriate cushioning for trail riding...) before I do much more of that. I'm also hoping to purchase a new-to-us bike trailer for M, who is a reluctant rider. I hear they can be challenging to tow, but it's either that or no family rides until she's more confident. With days like today (high near 70!), I don't want to waste the opportunity to get outside and get moving. We won't have many more days like this for a while!
I love Thanksgiving. I don't like that so many stores and homes have their Christmas decorations up already. It seems we practically ignore this holiday. I know - it's just not a retail-heavy holiday, so stores are looking ahead to the next money-maker. Perhaps I'm also a little sensitive since there's a December birthday in this family, so I want to give that celebration the attention it deserves, too (though J did ask last year why we were so late decorating for Christmas).
If you're still reading - wow. And thanks! And Happy Thanksgiving!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Rhino Project, and then Colorado!
J turned in his first "big" project today - a written report and a diorama about the white rhinoceros. If I could figure out how photos are organized on this new-to-me laptop, I'd upload one of the proud 2nd grader with his diorama (complete with adult rhino munching grass on the savanna, in front of some trees and a lovely sunset).
Now it's M's turn to complete a 'report' (they can be creative, making a poster, book, etc.) about Colorado. I'm not quite sure why she picked it, but she perked up quite a bit when we heard stories about Colorado on the news last night.
Now it's M's turn to complete a 'report' (they can be creative, making a poster, book, etc.) about Colorado. I'm not quite sure why she picked it, but she perked up quite a bit when we heard stories about Colorado on the news last night.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Busy, busy, busy!
Well, not really.... We have about 8 weekends where we have plans (other than stay-at-home, family time), and this just happened to be one of the busiest!
The boys were at a Parent-Son Campout with Cub Scouts. I attended a photography workshop with a friend. And thanks to those two out-of-town events, my parents-in-law came to hang out with M.
I missed the boys like crazy, but it was totally worth it because they had a great time!
And that's just what the boys did!
I attended a fantastic photography workshop and learned how to use my DSLR in manual mode! I went with a friend, which made it even more enjoyable. Now that I know a little more about what I'm doing, I want to try out my dad's old SLR. That's right - a film camera! I'd love to see what kind of results I could get now that I understand what I'm doing just a little more.
Miss M was not left out of the fun. Although she was just hanging around at home - which wasn't a bad idea since she spent 3 days out of school last week - she was also getting undivided attention from the grandparents! They played inside, they played outside, and they even got treats from the ice cream truck! No, I'm sure she wasn't spoiled at all....
Huge thanks to the grands for helping make this busy weekend possible!
The boys were at a Parent-Son Campout with Cub Scouts. I attended a photography workshop with a friend. And thanks to those two out-of-town events, my parents-in-law came to hang out with M.
I missed the boys like crazy, but it was totally worth it because they had a great time!
BB Shooting
Every shot hit the target!
Boulder Room and Rock Climbing Wall
Big J tried this one out - and made it to the top!
Fishing
Apparently, a big hit!
Food
Baked chicken and baked potatoes with all the fixings for Saturday dinner.
Hotdogs and mac and cheese for the kids.
And that's just what the boys did!
I attended a fantastic photography workshop and learned how to use my DSLR in manual mode! I went with a friend, which made it even more enjoyable. Now that I know a little more about what I'm doing, I want to try out my dad's old SLR. That's right - a film camera! I'd love to see what kind of results I could get now that I understand what I'm doing just a little more.
Miss M was not left out of the fun. Although she was just hanging around at home - which wasn't a bad idea since she spent 3 days out of school last week - she was also getting undivided attention from the grandparents! They played inside, they played outside, and they even got treats from the ice cream truck! No, I'm sure she wasn't spoiled at all....
Huge thanks to the grands for helping make this busy weekend possible!
Monday, September 5, 2011
Reluctant Reader?
Mister J is a good reader when he wants to be. He can read the notifications on my cell phone, he can read anything video-game or Lego-related, and he can read comics, Boys' Life, and other "fun" stuff. I know there's something to be said for "fun" reading to help him learn to love reading - like his current favorite "Lunch Lady" books - but I know that he also needs to be reading things that challenge him.
He is supposed to read for 15 minutes every afternoon as part of his homework. He is also supposed to complete a reading log entry each day, noting the title and author of the book as well as answering a open-ended question (What did you think about what you read?). It's that question that seems to be the stumbling block, and we are concerned that the reason for this is that J may be reading for accuracy, but not for comprehension. Last year he was also supposed to read 15 minutes per day for homework, after which we were supposed to ask questions about/discuss what he'd read (What is the author's purpose? Summarize what you read. Fiction or non-fiction? Etc.) It was not pleasant then, either.
Since it's difficult for me to gauge the accuracy of J's answers if he's reading something I have not read, I decided that J would need to select a book which I would read first. Then I could have an informed discussion with him, perhaps prompting as needed to get the discussion going.
After a(nother) discussion this evening about our new reading plan, J selected a book. We will begin reading the Magic Tree House series, starting with book 1. (We have quite a few in the series, and we have read some of them before, but not as independent reading.) As I explained to J that I would start reading tonight, and read a bit each day, he perked up. He decided that he will try to catch up to me each evening during his reading time! I'm thankful for how excited he seemed when he made it into a competition. Of course, we will see how it goes, but I think I may have just gotten a peek into his motivation. And I can relate, having been a teensy bit nerdy when I was in school. I am also aware that he may get disappointed if I get too far ahead of him, so this will be a bit of a balancing act for the first little bit.
I'm looking forward to:
Working through a series of books
Having academic discussions with my "little" boy
Tackling a variety of books - nonfiction? more challenging chapter books?
I'm wondering about:
Am I underestimating his ability? Is the book we selected too easy?
Am I overestimating his ability? Should we be reading short stories?
Is this plan even going to work?
Some days I wish I had studied elementary education instead of higher ed administration. Then I remember that I'm not really cut out to be a teacher. Except that, as parents, aren't we all?
What's your biggest homework struggle? What strategies have worked for you?
He is supposed to read for 15 minutes every afternoon as part of his homework. He is also supposed to complete a reading log entry each day, noting the title and author of the book as well as answering a open-ended question (What did you think about what you read?). It's that question that seems to be the stumbling block, and we are concerned that the reason for this is that J may be reading for accuracy, but not for comprehension. Last year he was also supposed to read 15 minutes per day for homework, after which we were supposed to ask questions about/discuss what he'd read (What is the author's purpose? Summarize what you read. Fiction or non-fiction? Etc.) It was not pleasant then, either.
Since it's difficult for me to gauge the accuracy of J's answers if he's reading something I have not read, I decided that J would need to select a book which I would read first. Then I could have an informed discussion with him, perhaps prompting as needed to get the discussion going.
After a(nother) discussion this evening about our new reading plan, J selected a book. We will begin reading the Magic Tree House series, starting with book 1. (We have quite a few in the series, and we have read some of them before, but not as independent reading.) As I explained to J that I would start reading tonight, and read a bit each day, he perked up. He decided that he will try to catch up to me each evening during his reading time! I'm thankful for how excited he seemed when he made it into a competition. Of course, we will see how it goes, but I think I may have just gotten a peek into his motivation. And I can relate, having been a teensy bit nerdy when I was in school. I am also aware that he may get disappointed if I get too far ahead of him, so this will be a bit of a balancing act for the first little bit.
I'm looking forward to:
Working through a series of books
Having academic discussions with my "little" boy
Tackling a variety of books - nonfiction? more challenging chapter books?
I'm wondering about:
Am I underestimating his ability? Is the book we selected too easy?
Am I overestimating his ability? Should we be reading short stories?
Is this plan even going to work?
Some days I wish I had studied elementary education instead of higher ed administration. Then I remember that I'm not really cut out to be a teacher. Except that, as parents, aren't we all?
What's your biggest homework struggle? What strategies have worked for you?
Thursday, August 25, 2011
First Day Recap
Mister J started 2nd grade today. So far, he's told me all about having lunch in the cafeteria (kids at our school have lunch in their classrooms through 1st grade), how he has 'green lunch' and how there are five different lunch sessions to choose from. He also said that he started learning multiplication today, and that this was his favorite part of the day!
Miss M started Kindergarten today. She told me that she has a new friend named Remmi (who I happen to know is a first-grader). She learned abut "plus-ing" (addition), and when asked for an example she told us that 7+8=15. M was also very excited to go on the big kids' playground (the pre-Ks play on a different playground). Her favorite thing about the playground was the 'twirly slide', and her favorite thing about the day was playing in Home Living during centers.
I'm sure we'll learn more over dinner, and I hope to post some of today's photos, too!
Miss M started Kindergarten today. She told me that she has a new friend named Remmi (who I happen to know is a first-grader). She learned abut "plus-ing" (addition), and when asked for an example she told us that 7+8=15. M was also very excited to go on the big kids' playground (the pre-Ks play on a different playground). Her favorite thing about the playground was the 'twirly slide', and her favorite thing about the day was playing in Home Living during centers.
I'm sure we'll learn more over dinner, and I hope to post some of today's photos, too!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Countdown to School!
I have been looking forward to the start of the school year, and I'm feeling even more excited about it now that we've had the opportunity to sit down with each of the kids' teachers to talk about the upcoming year, expectations, etc. This year, we have a kindergartener (in a blended K-1 classroom) and a 2nd grader!
While our teacher meetings went well, they didn't go quite as I would have expected. We met with Mister J's teacher first, a very enthusiastic woman with a moderately strong Northern accent. Mister J suddenly became uncharacteristically shy when his teacher asked him a few simple questions (parents' names, phone number, etc.). When he did answer her questions, he spoke so quickly she had to ask him to slow down. Miss M, on the other hand, was quite happy to talk with Mister J's teacher about summer vacation and give plenty of detail!
Then we were off to meet with Miss M's teacher, a calm, soft-spoken woman. Mister J made himself at home investigating the classroom and reading some books. Miss M was checking things out with him for a few minutes, and when she sat down with us to talk to her teacher she kept mumbling her answers. Shyness struck again! I'm sure she will show her true, outgoing, spirited self in no time!
This evening, I'm gathering papers and library cards that need to go to school, renewing our PTA membership, and re-linking my VIC card. Tomorrow, I'll be gathering supplies to pack into backpacks, doing some laundry, and planning to pack lunches for the first time since June!
Happy New (School) Year!
While our teacher meetings went well, they didn't go quite as I would have expected. We met with Mister J's teacher first, a very enthusiastic woman with a moderately strong Northern accent. Mister J suddenly became uncharacteristically shy when his teacher asked him a few simple questions (parents' names, phone number, etc.). When he did answer her questions, he spoke so quickly she had to ask him to slow down. Miss M, on the other hand, was quite happy to talk with Mister J's teacher about summer vacation and give plenty of detail!
Then we were off to meet with Miss M's teacher, a calm, soft-spoken woman. Mister J made himself at home investigating the classroom and reading some books. Miss M was checking things out with him for a few minutes, and when she sat down with us to talk to her teacher she kept mumbling her answers. Shyness struck again! I'm sure she will show her true, outgoing, spirited self in no time!
This evening, I'm gathering papers and library cards that need to go to school, renewing our PTA membership, and re-linking my VIC card. Tomorrow, I'll be gathering supplies to pack into backpacks, doing some laundry, and planning to pack lunches for the first time since June!
Happy New (School) Year!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
I found that little cord...
I finally hooked my camera up to my computer again, and found SO MANY photos that I wanted to share! I don't have time to show them all, so I thought I'd share just a quick summary of the last month or so.
These two kiddos wrapped up another year of school!
(For those of you paying very close attention, those are glasses frames you see on her face, but no lenses in them. They were a favor from a friend's birthday party, and she wore them nearly every day for about two weeks.)
Compare to the same time last year....
If anyone knows the secret to make them stop growing, let me know.
Also on the last day of school, this little girl had a dance recital.
I also finally gave in to letting this little girl loose with some paints - thanks to her Daddy's encouragement. She didn't make a mess like I feared, and really enjoyed the process.
Also, when I wasn't looking, she turned five. We had a sweet little tea party at home with some friends, and I really enjoyed the smaller celebration. I also loved all of the 'tea party food' that we served - and I think she enjoyed most of it, too!
Although we had planned to picnic at a local park on the 4th of July and watch fireworks the that evening, our picnic got rained out. We changed our plans to a back porch picnic, then a den floor picnic due to the rain, but did end up getting to see the fireworks.
We're spending our summer days playing outside, cooking (because I'm serving a lot more meals now that I'm not packing lunches), and spending time with friends and family. I also recently wrapped up my part-time, work-from-home job, so I'm hoping to add a few more things into our days - library visits, blueberry-picking, and other fun summer activities.
How are you spending your summer? Can you believe how fast it flies by?
These two kiddos wrapped up another year of school!
(For those of you paying very close attention, those are glasses frames you see on her face, but no lenses in them. They were a favor from a friend's birthday party, and she wore them nearly every day for about two weeks.)
Compare to the same time last year....
Also on the last day of school, this little girl had a dance recital.
I also finally gave in to letting this little girl loose with some paints - thanks to her Daddy's encouragement. She didn't make a mess like I feared, and really enjoyed the process.
Also, when I wasn't looking, she turned five. We had a sweet little tea party at home with some friends, and I really enjoyed the smaller celebration. I also loved all of the 'tea party food' that we served - and I think she enjoyed most of it, too!
Although we had planned to picnic at a local park on the 4th of July and watch fireworks the that evening, our picnic got rained out. We changed our plans to a back porch picnic, then a den floor picnic due to the rain, but did end up getting to see the fireworks.
We're spending our summer days playing outside, cooking (because I'm serving a lot more meals now that I'm not packing lunches), and spending time with friends and family. I also recently wrapped up my part-time, work-from-home job, so I'm hoping to add a few more things into our days - library visits, blueberry-picking, and other fun summer activities.
How are you spending your summer? Can you believe how fast it flies by?
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Remember that time...?
... that Mister J got treated for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?
You know, because his symptoms were pretty much a perfect match for RMSF. And although it could be just your run-of-the-mill nasty virus, there's still that chance that it's RMSF. Which you should treat no later than the fifth day of symptoms. And since the second trip to the ped this week for the crazy fever, combined with nausea, chills, and some "who is that?!?" crankiness happened to be on the fourth day of the fever, the ped called in the prescription.
Better to err on the side of caution - but as a friend of mine put it, I just might win the 'strange illnesses my child has had' contest in the after-school pick-up line. This from the friend whose daughter has a fever so high that the thermometer simply said, "HIGH." (She's thankfully doing ok with some good meds for a big ol' ear infection.) And I'd likely have to compete with a school mom friend whose son's spider bite just might be MRSA instead. They each had a visit to the emergency room. We just rated a "can-you-be-here-in-45?" appointment with the pediatrician. This is a contest I'd be glad to lose.
(PS - With a dose of acetominophen, this afternoon's fever, headache, and crankiness subsided. However, the fever spikes at night, even with ibuprofen. Hoping we see and end to this very soon.)
You know, because his symptoms were pretty much a perfect match for RMSF. And although it could be just your run-of-the-mill nasty virus, there's still that chance that it's RMSF. Which you should treat no later than the fifth day of symptoms. And since the second trip to the ped this week for the crazy fever, combined with nausea, chills, and some "who is that?!?" crankiness happened to be on the fourth day of the fever, the ped called in the prescription.
Better to err on the side of caution - but as a friend of mine put it, I just might win the 'strange illnesses my child has had' contest in the after-school pick-up line. This from the friend whose daughter has a fever so high that the thermometer simply said, "HIGH." (She's thankfully doing ok with some good meds for a big ol' ear infection.) And I'd likely have to compete with a school mom friend whose son's spider bite just might be MRSA instead. They each had a visit to the emergency room. We just rated a "can-you-be-here-in-45?" appointment with the pediatrician. This is a contest I'd be glad to lose.
(PS - With a dose of acetominophen, this afternoon's fever, headache, and crankiness subsided. However, the fever spikes at night, even with ibuprofen. Hoping we see and end to this very soon.)
Friday, June 10, 2011
The Bright Side
This post isn't so much about the lunch I packed this morning, but the reminder that came from from my family while I was deciding what to pack.
The story started yesterday when the kids and I got home after school. I walked into a house filled with the aroma of freshly-baked bread. Now that wouldn't normally have been a problem, except I'd set my bread machine so that the dough cycle would be finishing up as we walked in from school.
I had some volunteer commitments yesterday, so I'd prepped the ingredients and set the timer on the machine. The plan was that we'd get home, unpack backpacks, get everyone's hands washed, and start making pizza for an early dinner. Accounting for the time it takes for three cooks to complete such a task, I figured the pizza would come out of the oven in time for us to eat and then get to a 6pm meeting at church.
Needless to say, I was a little deflated when I figured out that something had gone wrong. I even posted this on my Facebook status:
Came home from school to the wonderful smell of bread baking - except that my bread machine was supposed to only be running the dough cycle.
Bread machine - 1, Person who thought she knew what she was doing when the set the dough cycle to run while she was gone - 0.
I did get some great encouragement from a friend and from my husband. You know, fresh-baked bread isn't all that bad. But my plan had been interrupted.
Since the bread smelled good (and really, I thought it did), we tasted it. Amazing - it tasted good, too! (It would have make a great pizza crust!) Once it cooled, I wrapped it up - thinking it was too good to waste, but wondering what to do with it.
Fast forward to this morning. The kids and I were in the kitchen, and asked them what they wanted to eatfor breakfast. "Can we have some of that bread?" Really?!? So I gave them a taste while I asked them what they really wanted for breakfast (cereal? granola bar?). And they liked the bread. Hmm. Now, I enjoy a savory breakfast as much as the next girl, but I just didn't think Pizza Dough Bread was the best way to start the day. So we decided to pack it in their lunchboxes - with slices of pepperoni and cheese, marinara sauce for dipping, and strawberries. They. were. thrilled. I was dumbfounded. But mostly, I was reminded that even when I think things are all fouled up, there's usually a way to turn it around for good. Thankfully, I had the help of some family and friends to remind me.
On my Facebook wall today:
Making the most of yesterday's bread machine snafu. "Breadsticks" with marinara, pepperoni and cheese, strawberries. The kids asked for the bread for breakfast, too!
And in reply to the comments below my photo:
I'm proud of my kids for helping me make the best of the situation (and figure out a lunch plan pretty quickly!). Hubby and the kids LOVED how the bread tasted, which made my day!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
My Week - and I'm still Thankful (also Thursday Thanks Tank #25)
It's been an interesting one, for sure, but I still have a lot for which to be thankful.
We had lunch at school with the kids on Monday. Our Valentine treat to them was bringing in Chick-Fil-A! With the "lunch in the classroom" arrangement of their school, we aren't sitting in front of the preschool or K1 classes with our 'special' lunch - we get them from their classrooms all sit together at a special table. We typically have some really fun family time when we do this, and Monday was no exception. Have I mentioned this is a great treat for Mommy, too? No lunches to pack! And with the "free milkshake when you buy two meals" special that was running that day, Daddy got his favorite cookies-n-cream shake for dessert! Thankful for a fun Valentine's Day (even though I forgot to get pictures)!
The interesting part of the week started when I picked the kids up from school that afternoon. Miss M, who'd been feeling great at lunch, had a sore throat and her voice was hoarse and squeaky-sounding just a few hours later. As a precaution, I took her to the pediatrician on Tuesday. Turned out just to be a virus (thankfully!), but since she had laryngitis she also needed vocal rest. Miss M on vocal rest? That's funny. So I kept her home on Wednesday as well - to be sure she didn't make things worse before her class field trip on Thursday.
Did I mention that I was scheduled to chaperone the field trip? And did I mention that around midnight Wednesday night/Thursday morning Miss M vomited? On the carpet? And that we are scheduled for company this weekend?
Both kids woke up due to the ... event. Which resulted in midnight bath time and early a.m. laundry. And also carpet cleaning - as well as I could, at least, for something that really needed professional attention.... Thankful that Mister J got back to sleep pretty quickly and that the guest room was easily made ready for Miss M to relocate for the night (that's not always a guarantee, especially when clothing exchange season is on the horizon!).
Big J saved the day by working from home since Miss M could not go to school and arranging for the carpet to be cleaned approximately 12 hours after the event. (Rock star, he is!) Miss M woke up on time, hungry, and wanting to limbo (I'm not joking). It wasn't a stomach bug, just a case of church supper not sitting well. Thankful on all of those counts, too!
I still chaperoned the trip, which was a good thing since two of Miss M's classmates got sick while we were there. Then I came home and cleared out Miss M's room and the landing at the top of the stairs so the carpet could be cleaned. I figure if it's getting cleaned, then we might as well have it cleaned to the corners! So thankful for a local company that can come out and clean carpets on the same day you call. They were already near our neighborhood. Also, the cost was less than we expected - the bonus for being a repeat customer (yes, there have been other carpet cat-tastrophes - not a typo).
With all of these surprises, I've managed to stay relatively calm - surprising even to me! How am I maintaining my sanity? Perhaps yesterday's walk with a friend was preventative medicine. I'm so thankful for that spur-of-the-moment opportunity! Now if I just had some spur-of-the-moment movers to help me get the upstairs back in order.... :)
We had lunch at school with the kids on Monday. Our Valentine treat to them was bringing in Chick-Fil-A! With the "lunch in the classroom" arrangement of their school, we aren't sitting in front of the preschool or K1 classes with our 'special' lunch - we get them from their classrooms all sit together at a special table. We typically have some really fun family time when we do this, and Monday was no exception. Have I mentioned this is a great treat for Mommy, too? No lunches to pack! And with the "free milkshake when you buy two meals" special that was running that day, Daddy got his favorite cookies-n-cream shake for dessert! Thankful for a fun Valentine's Day (even though I forgot to get pictures)!
The interesting part of the week started when I picked the kids up from school that afternoon. Miss M, who'd been feeling great at lunch, had a sore throat and her voice was hoarse and squeaky-sounding just a few hours later. As a precaution, I took her to the pediatrician on Tuesday. Turned out just to be a virus (thankfully!), but since she had laryngitis she also needed vocal rest. Miss M on vocal rest? That's funny. So I kept her home on Wednesday as well - to be sure she didn't make things worse before her class field trip on Thursday.
Did I mention that I was scheduled to chaperone the field trip? And did I mention that around midnight Wednesday night/Thursday morning Miss M vomited? On the carpet? And that we are scheduled for company this weekend?
Both kids woke up due to the ... event. Which resulted in midnight bath time and early a.m. laundry. And also carpet cleaning - as well as I could, at least, for something that really needed professional attention.... Thankful that Mister J got back to sleep pretty quickly and that the guest room was easily made ready for Miss M to relocate for the night (that's not always a guarantee, especially when clothing exchange season is on the horizon!).
Big J saved the day by working from home since Miss M could not go to school and arranging for the carpet to be cleaned approximately 12 hours after the event. (Rock star, he is!) Miss M woke up on time, hungry, and wanting to limbo (I'm not joking). It wasn't a stomach bug, just a case of church supper not sitting well. Thankful on all of those counts, too!
I still chaperoned the trip, which was a good thing since two of Miss M's classmates got sick while we were there. Then I came home and cleared out Miss M's room and the landing at the top of the stairs so the carpet could be cleaned. I figure if it's getting cleaned, then we might as well have it cleaned to the corners! So thankful for a local company that can come out and clean carpets on the same day you call. They were already near our neighborhood. Also, the cost was less than we expected - the bonus for being a repeat customer (yes, there have been other carpet cat-tastrophes - not a typo).
With all of these surprises, I've managed to stay relatively calm - surprising even to me! How am I maintaining my sanity? Perhaps yesterday's walk with a friend was preventative medicine. I'm so thankful for that spur-of-the-moment opportunity! Now if I just had some spur-of-the-moment movers to help me get the upstairs back in order.... :)
Monday, February 14, 2011
Valentine's Day!
We did things a little differently around here for Valentine's Day 2011 - no gifts! And we still had a lovely day!
In the past, I've gotten the kids books or music - usually something small - to celebrate. I think I spent the most ever for Valentine's Day last year - I spent about $35 on two beanbags for the kids' rooms. It was usually around $16 for childrens' books in previous years.
Today, I spent about $25 - on all four of us! I brought Chick-Fil-A lunch to school, Daddy met us there, and we all had lunch together. It was actually a nice bit of family time, since we get to eat a table away from the activity of lunch in the classrooms. The kids are always excited to have us come for lunch, I got a day off from packing lunches, and Daddy got a cookies-n-cream milkshake for his treat! (CFA was running a buy-two-combos-get-a-shake special today!)
Also - the weather was gorgeous today, and the next session of 5K training began this evening. My goal is an all-running 5K in the spring, and I ran 1.25 miles tonight - no intervals! That's the longest distance I've ever gone without intervals - woohoo!
Of course, it wasn't all sunshine and running shoes today.... Miss M came home from school sounding very hoarse and even a bit squeaky (sad face). Mister J has had a nagging cough, too. So, with both kiddos sick, there was no basketball practice for Mister J tonight. Miss M will be home with me tomorrow, and we've had to cancel our after-school doughnut date with a friend. (sigh)
That's just life, though, you know? Thankful that I've got these three to share it with - the ups and the downs.
In the past, I've gotten the kids books or music - usually something small - to celebrate. I think I spent the most ever for Valentine's Day last year - I spent about $35 on two beanbags for the kids' rooms. It was usually around $16 for childrens' books in previous years.
Today, I spent about $25 - on all four of us! I brought Chick-Fil-A lunch to school, Daddy met us there, and we all had lunch together. It was actually a nice bit of family time, since we get to eat a table away from the activity of lunch in the classrooms. The kids are always excited to have us come for lunch, I got a day off from packing lunches, and Daddy got a cookies-n-cream milkshake for his treat! (CFA was running a buy-two-combos-get-a-shake special today!)
Also - the weather was gorgeous today, and the next session of 5K training began this evening. My goal is an all-running 5K in the spring, and I ran 1.25 miles tonight - no intervals! That's the longest distance I've ever gone without intervals - woohoo!
Of course, it wasn't all sunshine and running shoes today.... Miss M came home from school sounding very hoarse and even a bit squeaky (sad face). Mister J has had a nagging cough, too. So, with both kiddos sick, there was no basketball practice for Mister J tonight. Miss M will be home with me tomorrow, and we've had to cancel our after-school doughnut date with a friend. (sigh)
That's just life, though, you know? Thankful that I've got these three to share it with - the ups and the downs.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Welcome, 2011!
This New Year's was the first time our kids stayed up to ring in the New Year. A couple of days ago, Mister J asked if he and Miss M could "stay up to say Happy New Year," and we agreed. So we planned a kid-friendly celebration - 'party food' for dinner and a cake for dessert (Miss M's request, because every party needs a cake!). On Friday afternoon, we received an invite from our friends who were also planning a family-friendly celebration and invited us to join. So - we packed up our six-layer dip (oops - I forgot a layer!) and chips, the cake (funfetti with chocolate funfetti frosting), a pitcher of sweet tea, and grabbed a pizza on the way over.
We had a great time! The kids enjoyed some time to play with friends, the adults enjoyed conversation, laughs, and a round of Cranium. Big J made me hum one of the music clues - even though he's the musically-inclined one in the family - so of course everyone at the table knew the song I was humming except him. That's ok, we got a good laugh! There was also the sketched clue that I drew - everyone wondered why I could possibly be drawing a hairy heart. The answer was actually heartburn, and those were flames....
We counted down to midnight with the kiddos, said our goodbyes shortly after, and had the kids in bed around 1:15am.
2010 really flew by for me. I think it's one of the "fastest" years I've ever had. I feel like it was just October, and suddenly Christmas was here and now it's a new year. While the days have flown by in a whirlwind, I have spent a bit of time thinking about some changes - really, just one change - that I want to make in the new year. We are working on it already, but I really want to focus even more on our family and our relationships with others. I want us to be more intentional about taking care of ourselves (individually and as a family) and about reaching out to others. This really isn't something that comes easily for me - because it usually means saying, "No," to exciting opportunities - but I want a good balance in my life, and I need to regain that by coming back to the center, to what's really important. For now, that means making our home a comfortable, uncluttered space that works for us, intentionally planning family time, making time for dates with my hubby, and (hopefully) catching up on our scrapbooks. Those are all pretty tall orders - each of them will take work - but I'm looking forward to it. And because they will take work, that probably means that posts here will continue to be infrequent and unpredictable. They'll have fewer photos to no photos as all (I totally forgot to take photos of any of today's preparations or of the time we spent with our friends).
I do hope that each of you will continue to stop by the blog and see what we are up to. Mister J has a 3rd loose tooth. I'm continuing 5K training in the spring (to improve speed and endurance) with an eye on even more training in the summer. Miss M is in her 2nd year of dance, and wants to be a Daisy Scout so bad she can't stand it (but that's not until next school year). Mister J continues to work hard for our family and recently helped us reach Baby Step 3. I'll keep blogging about all of this - and more - but probably less about lunches and other 'non-milestone' events. All in keeping with my desire to be more intentional about time spent with my family. I'll keep you posted on our progress in 2011!
Happy New Year!
We had a great time! The kids enjoyed some time to play with friends, the adults enjoyed conversation, laughs, and a round of Cranium. Big J made me hum one of the music clues - even though he's the musically-inclined one in the family - so of course everyone at the table knew the song I was humming except him. That's ok, we got a good laugh! There was also the sketched clue that I drew - everyone wondered why I could possibly be drawing a hairy heart. The answer was actually heartburn, and those were flames....
We counted down to midnight with the kiddos, said our goodbyes shortly after, and had the kids in bed around 1:15am.
2010 really flew by for me. I think it's one of the "fastest" years I've ever had. I feel like it was just October, and suddenly Christmas was here and now it's a new year. While the days have flown by in a whirlwind, I have spent a bit of time thinking about some changes - really, just one change - that I want to make in the new year. We are working on it already, but I really want to focus even more on our family and our relationships with others. I want us to be more intentional about taking care of ourselves (individually and as a family) and about reaching out to others. This really isn't something that comes easily for me - because it usually means saying, "No," to exciting opportunities - but I want a good balance in my life, and I need to regain that by coming back to the center, to what's really important. For now, that means making our home a comfortable, uncluttered space that works for us, intentionally planning family time, making time for dates with my hubby, and (hopefully) catching up on our scrapbooks. Those are all pretty tall orders - each of them will take work - but I'm looking forward to it. And because they will take work, that probably means that posts here will continue to be infrequent and unpredictable. They'll have fewer photos to no photos as all (I totally forgot to take photos of any of today's preparations or of the time we spent with our friends).
I do hope that each of you will continue to stop by the blog and see what we are up to. Mister J has a 3rd loose tooth. I'm continuing 5K training in the spring (to improve speed and endurance) with an eye on even more training in the summer. Miss M is in her 2nd year of dance, and wants to be a Daisy Scout so bad she can't stand it (but that's not until next school year). Mister J continues to work hard for our family and recently helped us reach Baby Step 3. I'll keep blogging about all of this - and more - but probably less about lunches and other 'non-milestone' events. All in keeping with my desire to be more intentional about time spent with my family. I'll keep you posted on our progress in 2011!
Happy New Year!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Sibling competition
Oh, my goodness! Our two kids are provoking each other tonight. One tells a joke and messes up the punch line, and the other - in a very sassy tone - lets the other one know, "That's not funny." And, just a few moments ago, Miss M revived the "One, One Hundred" argument. It's been going on for well over a week now. Miss M will ask, "What's one plus zero plus zero?" Mister J, interpreting her question as a math problem, will say, "One." And then she says, "No, it's one hundred." (Get it? 1 and 0 and 0 is 100, as she's at the leaning-to-write stage, not the arithmetic stage. So, a one followed by two zeros is 100.) And they argue back and forth, and eventually come to one of us to referee. Daily. {bangs head on desk}
Also, on the way into Best Buy this evening, Mister J was proud that he could walk and do jumping jacks at the same time. Which he proceeded to do across the parking lot. And this was before we ate our Krispy Kreme doughnuts for dessert. (Actually, it was about that time that we decided to save them until tomorrow...)
Have I mentioned that Christmas Break started this afternoon? Come January, I'm gonna need a vacation to recover from their vacation....
Also, on the way into Best Buy this evening, Mister J was proud that he could walk and do jumping jacks at the same time. Which he proceeded to do across the parking lot. And this was before we ate our Krispy Kreme doughnuts for dessert. (Actually, it was about that time that we decided to save them until tomorrow...)
Have I mentioned that Christmas Break started this afternoon? Come January, I'm gonna need a vacation to recover from their vacation....
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Overheard #40
It's a "snow day" here, and even though we've been hanging out inside today I made my kids go upstairs for rest time. Miss M gets rest time every day at school, and she needs it. Mister J needs it too, since we are supposed to be at a Christmas get-together tonight - weather and road conditions permitting. Here's my most recent rest-related exchange with my mom-napper:
Mister J: Mom, how much longer?
Me: Please go lay back down. I'll come get you when rest time is over.
...time passes...
Mister J: Mom, when is rest time over?
Me: In a while. (This was about the 4th interruption by a child who was supposed to be resting...)
Mister J: How long is a while?
Oh, dear.
Mister J: Mom, how much longer?
Me: Please go lay back down. I'll come get you when rest time is over.
...time passes...
Mister J: Mom, when is rest time over?
Me: In a while. (This was about the 4th interruption by a child who was supposed to be resting...)
Mister J: How long is a while?
Oh, dear.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Stocking Stuffers
I wasn't quite on-the-ball enough this year for us to participate in Operation Christmas Child, but we did choose another giving opportunity to benefit children. Our local Chick-Fil-As also collect Salvation Army stockings, so we chose to stuff two for children close in age to Mister J and Miss M.
Armed with our lists, I let the kids select most of the items on their own. When we still had money left over (I'd estimated what it would cost as I planned out budget for the week), I picked up a few more items and surprised the kids with them when it was time to stuff the stockings. Here's what we ended up with:
Miss M's items for a 3- to 5-year-old girl
Mister J's items for a 7ish-year-old boy
I was so proud of my kiddos for shopping their way down the lists to fill the stockings! We had to be mindful of finding things that would fit into the stockings, and the kids also thought about some details that they felt would be important to the kids receiving these items: they selected the characters on the toothpaste, toothbrush, books, etc., and chose between different options for the toys, socks, at other items. Oh, how much fun we had paying for the first round of items and finding we could bless the children with even more goodies! And then, it was time to drop them off!
The bittersweet part of all of this is teaching our children that not everyone has as much as we have - tangible or intangible. That there are people out there with few possessions - like warm clothing. There were tears when we had a real-life example of people without enough food to eat. We've talked about people who can't afford medical care or who are far from home because their child is very sick. Thankfully, we are in a position to be able to do something to help - and I hope it's a lesson that lasts a lifetime.
Armed with our lists, I let the kids select most of the items on their own. When we still had money left over (I'd estimated what it would cost as I planned out budget for the week), I picked up a few more items and surprised the kids with them when it was time to stuff the stockings. Here's what we ended up with:
Miss M's items for a 3- to 5-year-old girl
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| Socks, mittens, hat, headbands and ponytail holders, toothpaste, a toothbrush, a book, a puzzle, some lacing cards, flashcards, and a travel-size m@gna-doodle |
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| It's nearly as big as she is! |
Mister J's items for a 7ish-year-old boy
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| That stocking is pretty heavy! |
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