If you were to come over unannounced, right now...
you would hardly be able to make it past the front door mat w/o tripping over someones shoes. Then if you happened to make it past the shoes there is a good possibility you might just slip on a jacket that was tossed on the ground. If you looked to the left you'd see a school room w/ newspaper covering the floor, broken crayons, backpacks, pencils, and desks loaded w/ books. Next to that, the formal living room, w/ piled up boxes of Christmas decorations & piano books sprawled around. If you were brave or curious enough to keep on walking, you'd come upon the family room, which would look like a bomb went off, sending clothes and toys flying every which way. That just might shock you enough to turn around and head for the front door but you wouldn't be able to miss the kitchen..w/ dishes, cereal boxes & mail all over the place. Then, you'd be stopped in your tracks when our rabbit, hopping around on her mats, came up to greet you.
I often find myself apologizing to J about our house or joking about how he's married to "some crazy woman" and "what does she do all day..geez!" He is a very forgiving man and we have a good laugh.
Ideally, and I am an idealist (not a good thing)- I'd love to have the house perfect, all the laundry done, dinner on the table every night and be all dressed up and smiling when he walked through the door- BUT really, is that possible? I wonder is there a lady out there who is able to pull that off and if so, what is her secret?
Anyhow, my house does get clean & that is my job today (because I CAN NOT stand it anymore). I always tell myself, "I am not going to let the house get out of hand again" .. but it happens and often at that, MORE often than I like. That must just be life or motherhood. There will come a time, when the jackets aren't on the ground and there is no shoe obstacle; toy and clothes bombs will be unheard of AND I am sure I will miss it.
Then, maybe I WILL be that lady with the clean house....at least until the grand kids come over! :)
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Thursday, January 14, 2010
To: J ... From: C
Thanks for showing 'new' interest in me :)!
not sure yet if I am comfortable with it...
not sure yet if I am comfortable with it...
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
A Fly on the Wall
Oh what I would give to be a fly on the wall in another home school moms house. I wonder, does it take as long? Do they get into the same deep discussions that we do? Is there a lot of 'rabbit chasing' going on? Is the baby screaming "mom, mom, mom" over the gate, even though daddy is right there to meet her every need? Is the mom fully dressed? Are the breakfast dishes from yesterday still in the sink? Has the baby spent the day in her PJ's? Does it take them all day and does the mom just want to veg for a few minutes after assigning the final lesson for the day?
I love home school. It is great to be able to learn together, to discuss history and choices and consequences to actions and sing and recite and laugh and cry and play together. To study God's word, to explore new places and cultures through great literature. To know that YOU taught your kids to read and introduced them to the great world of knowledge that books hold.
It is a wonderful accomplishment -but as my kids get older, I am realizing that it is one that comes with a lot of sacrifice. Yet, without sacrifice, how can great things come? I am not the type of person that would tell you to home school, thinking that it is the only way. It definitely is something I feel called to do for my family. That being said, it would be easier to send them off to school, let someone else teach them, influence them. Strangers at that, whom I barely know. I just can't do that and even though they hold a teaching degree that doesn't mean they are more capable of teaching my children than I am. I can't imagine a "more" important job than what I am doing. I cannot imagine giving the best of myself to other people, over my children/my family. Most people don't understand, most people disagree....Most people say they could 'never teach their child'. They say 'we just clash, we aren't a good mix, I am not disciplined' ..I never would argue that w/ anyone..however, I do find that sad. I cannot imagine, my children looking at anyone else for the direction and tools they need to become adults capable of contributing to society. I don't understand that. Hear me when I say that, I am not saying that they do not need others to help shape them, but shouldn't I, we be the primary teacher (s)?
My neighbor really wants me to home school her child, something I would never do. Guess, it just has me thinking. She talked a lot about the problems she has w/ her school, etc.. I just listened. My father is a public school teacher w/ a masters degree in World History. I have much respect for teachers and would never speak ill about them..so I just listened...
I love home school. It is great to be able to learn together, to discuss history and choices and consequences to actions and sing and recite and laugh and cry and play together. To study God's word, to explore new places and cultures through great literature. To know that YOU taught your kids to read and introduced them to the great world of knowledge that books hold.
It is a wonderful accomplishment -but as my kids get older, I am realizing that it is one that comes with a lot of sacrifice. Yet, without sacrifice, how can great things come? I am not the type of person that would tell you to home school, thinking that it is the only way. It definitely is something I feel called to do for my family. That being said, it would be easier to send them off to school, let someone else teach them, influence them. Strangers at that, whom I barely know. I just can't do that and even though they hold a teaching degree that doesn't mean they are more capable of teaching my children than I am. I can't imagine a "more" important job than what I am doing. I cannot imagine giving the best of myself to other people, over my children/my family. Most people don't understand, most people disagree....Most people say they could 'never teach their child'. They say 'we just clash, we aren't a good mix, I am not disciplined' ..I never would argue that w/ anyone..however, I do find that sad. I cannot imagine, my children looking at anyone else for the direction and tools they need to become adults capable of contributing to society. I don't understand that. Hear me when I say that, I am not saying that they do not need others to help shape them, but shouldn't I, we be the primary teacher (s)?
My neighbor really wants me to home school her child, something I would never do. Guess, it just has me thinking. She talked a lot about the problems she has w/ her school, etc.. I just listened. My father is a public school teacher w/ a masters degree in World History. I have much respect for teachers and would never speak ill about them..so I just listened...
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Planning & More Planning
Finished planning for this year and the next, as far as school goes. I have to say it was a little overwhelming. Why two years at once..I am an overachiever, what can I say? No, just kidding :)! I just got started and decided to keep on going. This week we start Co-op, I will be teaching 2 classes. I lost my little first graders (which I was a little bummed about) and now I will be teaching Science and Art to
2ND-4Th graders. I had no idea that when I signed up to teach that, I'd have to drop R's class. Well, it was fun while it lasted and the twins are way excited to have me as a teacher. Go figure, they can choose anyone/class and they choose me! I am flattered don't get me wrong, but seriously aren't they sick of me? Now, I am pretty cool and fun to be around so I guess I understand way they'd choose me ;)- I really think it is great & we do have a lot of fun together! The third class they chose was American Revolution..they both chose this over Lego's & An American Girl class - I am quite proud of that! The teacher that taught them in Human Anatomy is teaching the class and they really liked her, so that's good.
So, here we go..Semester 2. I hope this one will not be AS crazy busy as the last. We dropped sewing and have no sports Y E T .. I am not liking 3 kids in 4 or 5 different sports. I am fighting that as much as I can while trying to still be submissive to what J wants. His schedule changes every year and so we will also be trying to work around that. I think it will be a little better. His days off will be in the middle of the week, but he will also have to work weekend nights, (when we'd normally be able to go on a date :( )- I forgot he will also have to work Sunday mornings..arghh, so that will stink as far as church..
Too much to think about, I have tired head.
That's enough blabbing from me, I better hit the sack so I can be fresh for school tomorrow!
2ND-4Th graders. I had no idea that when I signed up to teach that, I'd have to drop R's class. Well, it was fun while it lasted and the twins are way excited to have me as a teacher. Go figure, they can choose anyone/class and they choose me! I am flattered don't get me wrong, but seriously aren't they sick of me? Now, I am pretty cool and fun to be around so I guess I understand way they'd choose me ;)- I really think it is great & we do have a lot of fun together! The third class they chose was American Revolution..they both chose this over Lego's & An American Girl class - I am quite proud of that! The teacher that taught them in Human Anatomy is teaching the class and they really liked her, so that's good.
So, here we go..Semester 2. I hope this one will not be AS crazy busy as the last. We dropped sewing and have no sports Y E T .. I am not liking 3 kids in 4 or 5 different sports. I am fighting that as much as I can while trying to still be submissive to what J wants. His schedule changes every year and so we will also be trying to work around that. I think it will be a little better. His days off will be in the middle of the week, but he will also have to work weekend nights, (when we'd normally be able to go on a date :( )- I forgot he will also have to work Sunday mornings..arghh, so that will stink as far as church..
Too much to think about, I have tired head.
That's enough blabbing from me, I better hit the sack so I can be fresh for school tomorrow!
Friday, January 8, 2010
Pajama Mama
I think "sometimes" Pajamas are okay..even if you do wear them for a whole week..as long as you are showering and being productive..what's the hurt in that, right?
So, to start off the new year I challenged myself to see how many consecutive days I could remain in my PJ's & not leave the house. As my good friend pointed out to me this morning -"It is important to try & be the best at whatever you are doing" so, my goal of being the #1pajama mama was a good goal indeed. I completed it with 5days. Had to end it today because I have to take my kids to Piano. I ALMOST rationalized staying home because I hate having to drag poor lil'c & R out in this single digit weather to sit in a car for an hour while we wait. So alas, my challenge ends and I will be getting dressed, with make-up (well maybe not)& all that jazz and venture out into this cold weather. I wouldn't dare leave in my Jammie's, what if something happened? There I would be, in my pj's, with everyone looking on..nope can't do that. I'd have taken a picture for you to see, but nah I am just way too shy for that. Plus I seriously have, some serious 'flock of seagulls' (as J says) hair going on. Not a particularly good look for me, but funny non the less. :) . One other reason I am ending my challenge is because J started calling me 'Pajama Mama' and told me to 'snap out of it'.. no respect for the goal I set for myself, he just couldn't see it through my eyes ;). I had a good run though; I better go get dressed.
So, to start off the new year I challenged myself to see how many consecutive days I could remain in my PJ's & not leave the house. As my good friend pointed out to me this morning -"It is important to try & be the best at whatever you are doing" so, my goal of being the #1pajama mama was a good goal indeed. I completed it with 5days. Had to end it today because I have to take my kids to Piano. I ALMOST rationalized staying home because I hate having to drag poor lil'c & R out in this single digit weather to sit in a car for an hour while we wait. So alas, my challenge ends and I will be getting dressed, with make-up (well maybe not)& all that jazz and venture out into this cold weather. I wouldn't dare leave in my Jammie's, what if something happened? There I would be, in my pj's, with everyone looking on..nope can't do that. I'd have taken a picture for you to see, but nah I am just way too shy for that. Plus I seriously have, some serious 'flock of seagulls' (as J says) hair going on. Not a particularly good look for me, but funny non the less. :) . One other reason I am ending my challenge is because J started calling me 'Pajama Mama' and told me to 'snap out of it'.. no respect for the goal I set for myself, he just couldn't see it through my eyes ;). I had a good run though; I better go get dressed.
Monday, January 4, 2010
New Year!
It's a new year and I have a ton of catching up to do on here :)
For all you followers out there ;), I have decided to cancel my FB account, I didn't "block" you. There are some things I need to put behind me and FB was not helping me to put & keep things in the past- I have to say I feel quite liberated about it & That's all I have to say about that!
Well, we had an excellent holiday time! I had so much fun w/ all my family and just cherish those times together.
I am so excited for this new year. I spent yesterday evening walking around on the property we hope to own & start building on this time next year! Now more than ever I can't wait to move out to the 'country' ! Well, not country, country, but good enough for us :). It is nice to dream and have a goal and that is what we will be working towards in the coming year. I look forward to building our final 'Lord willing' home. We have moved so much and been through A LOT, I can't wait to start our life out in Lakeside. The kids love just running around & riding go carts, exploring, having fires and all that fun! It will be an excellent place to live and I feel so blessed that we are in a position where we can give this lifestyle to our children.
I am so completely thankful to God for all He has done for me. I am so undeserving and yet He showers His love and blessings upon my life. I know that there is nothing I could have ever done to deserve all He has given me. And not just monetary blessings, but my wonderful family, extended family and dedicated husband. Why should I deserve such treasures here on earth? God and His amazing love and grace, that I need daily just to make it through this world, is the only ONE that I can and will credit. I am no better than the other, no wiser, no luckier.. I am so ever grateful for my relationship w/ Christ - what a different life I would be living w/o Him in it. I Thank Him for carrying me this year (especially towards the end); I thank Him for the lessons I am learning from Him (though not always easy); I thank Him for holding onto me (even when I, myself start to let go). Thank-you my wonderful Savior!!
As always..
"..let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith." Hebrews 12:1-2
"Happy New Year to All!!"
For all you followers out there ;), I have decided to cancel my FB account, I didn't "block" you. There are some things I need to put behind me and FB was not helping me to put & keep things in the past- I have to say I feel quite liberated about it & That's all I have to say about that!
Well, we had an excellent holiday time! I had so much fun w/ all my family and just cherish those times together.
I am so excited for this new year. I spent yesterday evening walking around on the property we hope to own & start building on this time next year! Now more than ever I can't wait to move out to the 'country' ! Well, not country, country, but good enough for us :). It is nice to dream and have a goal and that is what we will be working towards in the coming year. I look forward to building our final 'Lord willing' home. We have moved so much and been through A LOT, I can't wait to start our life out in Lakeside. The kids love just running around & riding go carts, exploring, having fires and all that fun! It will be an excellent place to live and I feel so blessed that we are in a position where we can give this lifestyle to our children.
I am so completely thankful to God for all He has done for me. I am so undeserving and yet He showers His love and blessings upon my life. I know that there is nothing I could have ever done to deserve all He has given me. And not just monetary blessings, but my wonderful family, extended family and dedicated husband. Why should I deserve such treasures here on earth? God and His amazing love and grace, that I need daily just to make it through this world, is the only ONE that I can and will credit. I am no better than the other, no wiser, no luckier.. I am so ever grateful for my relationship w/ Christ - what a different life I would be living w/o Him in it. I Thank Him for carrying me this year (especially towards the end); I thank Him for the lessons I am learning from Him (though not always easy); I thank Him for holding onto me (even when I, myself start to let go). Thank-you my wonderful Savior!!
As always..
"..let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith." Hebrews 12:1-2
"Happy New Year to All!!"
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