I was recently browsing a blog where a lady listed 100 things about herself. I decided 50 was plenty.
1 I’m not ashamed of my age – 40.
2 I think fresh snow is the most beautiful thing.
3 I love to kiss my children’s feet.
4 I could live on chicken – it’s the most versatile meat.
5 I don’t like chickens. They are stinky, dirty and mean.
6 I used to read a stack of books a week.
7 I am a TV addict. I think it has to do with being TV deprived as a kid.
8 I hate repetitive sounds. My kids can drive me completely nuts.
9 My least favorite song – A Horse With No Name.
10 I don’t have a favorite song.
11 Counted cross stitch makes me angry.
12 The thought of the smell of cigarette smoke makes me nauseous.
13 If I ever go back for more school, it will be for something artsy.
14 I wish I was a lawyer at least once a week.
15 I have 2 friends who don’t irritate me.
16 I jumped off a cliff – 30 feet down into 80 feet of water.
17 I flew to Miami by myself.
18 Complex math makes my head hurt, but I can figure the answer if I have to.
19 I like my middle name.
20 I envy/admire the Amish lifestyle without wanting to experience it.
21 I could cry every time I see an animal that was killed on the road.
22 I love all things peanut butter, but I don’t particularly like peanut butter.
23 I have anger issues.
24 I hate housework.
25 I second-guess everything I do, and analyze everything.
26 I can spot a hypocrite very quickly.
27 I refuse to choose sides – I HATE it when people expect me to.
28 My dad has been gone longer than I knew him. That makes me very sad.
29 I’d love to travel through the United Kingdom.
30 I love Mexican food, but I can’t remember the last time I ate any.
31 I used to think Seafoam green was pretty.
32 I used to draw house plans and ladies’ shoes.
33 I took an aptitude test and was told I should have been a milliner.
34 I hate reptiles.
35 I think birds are evil.
36 My eyes are grey and green.
37 I hate how much I resemble my mother.
38 I talk more than I listen.
39 Loud chewing bothers me. Thanks, Dad.
40 I can be very petty.
41 I remember incidents from when I was only 3.
42 I remember things very vividly – it gets to be draining.
43 I go blank when people ask me my cell phone number.
44 I love Diet Coke, but it doesn’t love me.
45 I used to get hives from eating bacon.
46 Dora the Explorer’s voice is worse than squeaking balloons.
47 I love Easter.
48 I feel like I should be able to fix everything for everyone.
49 I love to be alone, but I hate feeling lonely.
50 I hear harmonies in music even before I “hear” the melody.
Oh - here's 51 Poor grammar is like a rock in my shoe. I cannot ignore it, but I try.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
Feeling Blah
So I just can't kick this feeling. I haven't taken my Wellbutrin for ages, and I definitely think now would be a good time to get a refill. I am not interested in finishing anything. Who am I kidding? I'm not even interested in starting anything. I finally did a load of my own clothes because I HAD to. DH has been washing clothes for the kids. I get meals on the table, but when my kids decide it's the worst thing they've ever been fed, it makes it even more difficult to put effort into it. (How dare I put tiny pieces of broccoli into their salads!) DH has also been helping keep the kitchen clean. I guess I did go grocery shopping Saturday. But I felt like I was pushing a cart full of bricks. (No, it wasn't a cruddy cart.)
I hate running into people. "Oh! Hi! How ARE you?" puke puke
I really should get off the computer and finish writing my - ahem, cough, cough -Christmas I mean New Year's cards so I can get them into the mail before February. Sigh.
Blah.
I hate running into people. "Oh! Hi! How ARE you?" puke puke
I really should get off the computer and finish writing my - ahem, cough, cough -
Blah.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Aaarrrrgh! Insurance companies are the worst!
Back in October, my ENT doctor wanted me to get tested for allergies. The doctor's office contacted the insurance company to pre-authorize the charges. They called BCBS two times to make sure it was covered. When the testing was done and they submitted the bill, BCBS denied their payment. So, the office coded it differently, and resubmitted it.
Today the doctor's office called to say that BCBS is still refusing to cover the charges, and the doctor's office will cut the bill in half if we will pay it. I don't know what the other options would be, but does anyone have an extra $500 lying around to pay my bill?
I told the lady that my husband takes care of our bills and insurance stuff, so I'd have to talk to him and get back to her. I could just cry.
Today the doctor's office called to say that BCBS is still refusing to cover the charges, and the doctor's office will cut the bill in half if we will pay it. I don't know what the other options would be, but does anyone have an extra $500 lying around to pay my bill?
I told the lady that my husband takes care of our bills and insurance stuff, so I'd have to talk to him and get back to her. I could just cry.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Friday, January 2, 2009
When God says "no"
I've always known, in theory, that God is a loving Father, even when He doesn't grant our hearts' desires. Now, I think, He shows us even more love by not granting our desires.
As a parent, it is much easier to just give my children what they ask for. But because I love them, I don't give them things that I know will not be good for them down the line.
Recently, God has shown me two clear instances where my heart was broken or I was disappointed and now I am millions of times better off because of it.
I think of other areas in my life where I struggle with being hurt and wondering why things are as they are and I am reminded that God is in control. Maybe some day I will look back and be thankful for those situations, too.
As a parent, it is much easier to just give my children what they ask for. But because I love them, I don't give them things that I know will not be good for them down the line.
Recently, God has shown me two clear instances where my heart was broken or I was disappointed and now I am millions of times better off because of it.
I think of other areas in my life where I struggle with being hurt and wondering why things are as they are and I am reminded that God is in control. Maybe some day I will look back and be thankful for those situations, too.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
It's gonna be a doozie
If this year is anything like this morning, it's going to be a ride. I went 5 rounds with Baby; she dumped out a set of puzzle foam blocks and scattered them all over the dining room floor. When I told her to pick them up before getting out any more toys, she told me, "No. YOU pick them up!"
When I had won the fight, she picked them all up and came and hugged me and apologized all on her own. I made sure she knew what a great job she did picking them up, and she got lots of hugs and kisses.
And now I feel a huge headache coming on. It's a good thing I don't drink.
When I had won the fight, she picked them all up and came and hugged me and apologized all on her own. I made sure she knew what a great job she did picking them up, and she got lots of hugs and kisses.
And now I feel a huge headache coming on. It's a good thing I don't drink.
It's 2009
I do hope it will be a good year. And if I can get back into the swing of things and maybe get back on meds, it will even be a happy one.
DH had to work last shift last night, and my two little people were in bed. I watched the end of a movie and flipped the channel to Fox to watch the ball drop. Then I turned off the TV b/c all the people kissing was making me sick. And I went to bed.
Woo hoo.
DH had to work last shift last night, and my two little people were in bed. I watched the end of a movie and flipped the channel to Fox to watch the ball drop. Then I turned off the TV b/c all the people kissing was making me sick. And I went to bed.
Woo hoo.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Things I want to do in the New Year
I want to start a list of things I want to do in 2009. It will not be a list to add pressure, so much as to attempt at least some of the things. It is a list that is not concrete or complete from the start. And it is not listed in order of importance, but just as things came to mind.
1) Memorize more Scripture.
2) Write a set of lessons on the Tabernacle for my SS Class.
3) Clean my room.
4) Clean the den.
5) Clean the basement. (I see a trend...)
6) Make home-made marshmallows - I found variations: pumpkin, strawberry, cinnamon
7) Pick our own fruit and veggies at local farms - or at least buy some at the farmers' market
8) Keep working on my new craft to make some money.
9) Take my kids to the Pittsburgh Zoo.
10) Go away for a couple days with my husband.
11) Take the kids to the Wilds in Ohio - an African animal park
12) Lose weight.
13) Read 4 books.
14) Get more organized - get back to using my organizer notebook
15) Be a better wife.
I think that's a pretty good start. I just feel that having goals is important.
1) Memorize more Scripture.
2) Write a set of lessons on the Tabernacle for my SS Class.
3) Clean my room.
4) Clean the den.
5) Clean the basement. (I see a trend...)
6) Make home-made marshmallows - I found variations: pumpkin, strawberry, cinnamon
7) Pick our own fruit and veggies at local farms - or at least buy some at the farmers' market
8) Keep working on my new craft to make some money.
9) Take my kids to the Pittsburgh Zoo.
10) Go away for a couple days with my husband.
11) Take the kids to the Wilds in Ohio - an African animal park
12) Lose weight.
13) Read 4 books.
14) Get more organized - get back to using my organizer notebook
15) Be a better wife.
I think that's a pretty good start. I just feel that having goals is important.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Christmas Morning
Just thought I'd share a couple pictures with you.
This is Christmas morning at our home.
This is Christmas morning at my in-laws' home.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
I'm so glad it's over.
I have not been in the mood for Christmas this year. I don't know exactly why; I've thought about why, but nothing jumps out at me. But here are some strong contenders:
1) We have no snow.
2) I'm homesick, but I don't have a home to be sick for. And if I start thinking about the holidays parent-less, I can't function.
3) I figured I'd get less-than-exciting gifts, and I was right.
4) We cut back on spending this year - that one actually has pros and cons. In the end, I think I cut back. :o{
5) I never did get to spend a day baking for all the elderly neighbors. I might still do it. Next week. Maybe.
6) I kept thinking of all the things I wanted to get done, and feeling pressured and guilty.
7) I KNEW that my in-laws were going to go overboard and I would be left trying to fit the mountain of toys in my house. And they did.
8) A guy from college is in the last stages of ALS, and he and his family have weighed heavily on my heart. I remember our last Christmas with Dad, and it was not an easy time for any of us.
9) I spent a majority of my free time finishing up a craft I sold to my therapist. That was a first - me, walking out with a check from her.
I tried to fake it for my kids' sake and even for DH's sake. I baked half a batch of sugar cookies that never got frosted. DH and son put up the Christmas tree. I let the kids decorate it; the bottom branches looked...like a 3 year old decorated them. DH rearranged them and added the glass balls Christmas Eve.
I went shopping Christmas Eve Day - that was nuts. I needed to get some stocking stuffers for all of us, and I wanted to get another gift for Baby. I don't keep track of what I spend on each kid to the penny, but I try to keep it somewhat fair. I don't think they would care so much now, even though Little Boy thought she had more packages under the tree than he did. But I do not want them to look back somewhere in the future and wonder why Little Boy got a new steam engine, and Baby got a plastic set of kitchen appliances - a fraction of the cost.
Christmas Day. DH and Little Boy got up, then me, then Baby. The kids were so excited. It was nice to see that. They opened the gifts in their stockings, and we ate breakfast. I figured that way, we could have some family time before DH's parents and sister came over. Last year they came before we finished breakfast. The kids finished breakfast, opened all their gifts from us and were playing with their things when SIL called. "When are you guys coming down?" DH told her the kids had just finished opening all their gifts. She tried to hurry us, but I said the kids needed some time to actually enjoy their stuff. So we went down a half hour later. I just knew there was a mountain of stuff next door and I guess I wanted my kids to enjoy some normalcy before we went.
We got there, and his parents and his sister had already exchanged gifts and she had loaded her things into her vehicle. I can't help but feel a bit suspicious. His parents had told us that we were NOT to buy them gifts. We got Granddad a nerf gun to play with Little Boy, and we got
Grandma more memory for her computer. Apparently, my SIL bought DH's parents some big gifts. I cannot figure out what on earth is going on.
DH got an iPod Touch, a fancy wrench, an expensive surge protector, and a game. I got a new crock pot (I asked for), a small baking dish, a dish for baking monkey bread, and a wipe-off calendar for the fridge. I guess it bothers me that there is such a big discrepancy in what they spent on us. And I would bet my SIL got way more than DH.
I know stuff isn't important. And I did get what I asked for. I got the crock pot from IL's and DH got me the two Narnia movies. He also got me two refills for my Xyron. And my Christmas flower arrangement 2 weeks ago. And I know he loves me and does so much around the house. Way more than he should have to. And like Anna reminded me, not everyone has the same love languages.
Is it possible to have all of them? I feel overly needy, or greedy. And guilty. And fat. BLAH!
1) We have no snow.
2) I'm homesick, but I don't have a home to be sick for. And if I start thinking about the holidays parent-less, I can't function.
3) I figured I'd get less-than-exciting gifts, and I was right.
4) We cut back on spending this year - that one actually has pros and cons. In the end, I think I cut back. :o{
5) I never did get to spend a day baking for all the elderly neighbors. I might still do it. Next week. Maybe.
6) I kept thinking of all the things I wanted to get done, and feeling pressured and guilty.
7) I KNEW that my in-laws were going to go overboard and I would be left trying to fit the mountain of toys in my house. And they did.
8) A guy from college is in the last stages of ALS, and he and his family have weighed heavily on my heart. I remember our last Christmas with Dad, and it was not an easy time for any of us.
9) I spent a majority of my free time finishing up a craft I sold to my therapist. That was a first - me, walking out with a check from her.
I tried to fake it for my kids' sake and even for DH's sake. I baked half a batch of sugar cookies that never got frosted. DH and son put up the Christmas tree. I let the kids decorate it; the bottom branches looked...like a 3 year old decorated them. DH rearranged them and added the glass balls Christmas Eve.
I went shopping Christmas Eve Day - that was nuts. I needed to get some stocking stuffers for all of us, and I wanted to get another gift for Baby. I don't keep track of what I spend on each kid to the penny, but I try to keep it somewhat fair. I don't think they would care so much now, even though Little Boy thought she had more packages under the tree than he did. But I do not want them to look back somewhere in the future and wonder why Little Boy got a new steam engine, and Baby got a plastic set of kitchen appliances - a fraction of the cost.
Christmas Day. DH and Little Boy got up, then me, then Baby. The kids were so excited. It was nice to see that. They opened the gifts in their stockings, and we ate breakfast. I figured that way, we could have some family time before DH's parents and sister came over. Last year they came before we finished breakfast. The kids finished breakfast, opened all their gifts from us and were playing with their things when SIL called. "When are you guys coming down?" DH told her the kids had just finished opening all their gifts. She tried to hurry us, but I said the kids needed some time to actually enjoy their stuff. So we went down a half hour later. I just knew there was a mountain of stuff next door and I guess I wanted my kids to enjoy some normalcy before we went.
We got there, and his parents and his sister had already exchanged gifts and she had loaded her things into her vehicle. I can't help but feel a bit suspicious. His parents had told us that we were NOT to buy them gifts. We got Granddad a nerf gun to play with Little Boy, and we got
Grandma more memory for her computer. Apparently, my SIL bought DH's parents some big gifts. I cannot figure out what on earth is going on.
DH got an iPod Touch, a fancy wrench, an expensive surge protector, and a game. I got a new crock pot (I asked for), a small baking dish, a dish for baking monkey bread, and a wipe-off calendar for the fridge. I guess it bothers me that there is such a big discrepancy in what they spent on us. And I would bet my SIL got way more than DH.
I know stuff isn't important. And I did get what I asked for. I got the crock pot from IL's and DH got me the two Narnia movies. He also got me two refills for my Xyron. And my Christmas flower arrangement 2 weeks ago. And I know he loves me and does so much around the house. Way more than he should have to. And like Anna reminded me, not everyone has the same love languages.
Is it possible to have all of them? I feel overly needy, or greedy. And guilty. And fat. BLAH!
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Things that made me smile - another one
Baby and Little Boy have been especially intrigued with the names of Santa's reindeer. Baby likes to say, "Dash away, dash away, dash away all!" Many times she forgets the "all" on the end and just keeps repeating "dash away".
DH has been singing Rudolph, and Baby laughs; when he gets to the "most famous reindeer of all" part, he puts in Little Boy's name.
The kids were playing in the living room and Little Boy ran to his room. Baby looked at me and said, "I'm 'Splitzen'!" And ran to see Brother, leaving Mommy in the living room laughing out loud.
DH has been singing Rudolph, and Baby laughs; when he gets to the "most famous reindeer of all" part, he puts in Little Boy's name.
The kids were playing in the living room and Little Boy ran to his room. Baby looked at me and said, "I'm 'Splitzen'!" And ran to see Brother, leaving Mommy in the living room laughing out loud.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Things that made me smile
Baby decided she did not want to be a lamb for the Christmas program. I asked her what she wanted to be. She wanted to be a giraffe. Hmm. Could have been a highlight.
Little Boy hollered from the other room: "Ouch! Mommy! I stubbed my toe on those groceries! But it didn't hurt because I have a strong toe knuckle."
I told Baby the other night that we were going to go to Walmart after we finished eating our dinner out. She looked at me, clasped her hands, and said, "Oh Mommy. I am so pleased!"
I was trying on frames today, looking for a new pair of glasses. I asked Baby what she thought about the pair I picked. "Mommy, you look great!" The lady asked her if she wanted a job.
Little Boy hollered from the other room: "Ouch! Mommy! I stubbed my toe on those groceries! But it didn't hurt because I have a strong toe knuckle."
I told Baby the other night that we were going to go to Walmart after we finished eating our dinner out. She looked at me, clasped her hands, and said, "Oh Mommy. I am so pleased!"
I was trying on frames today, looking for a new pair of glasses. I asked Baby what she thought about the pair I picked. "Mommy, you look great!" The lady asked her if she wanted a job.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Monkey Poop Coffee
Ok - that is the most ridiculous, disgusting thing I could ever imagine.
Not only is it appalling, it is apparently quite exclusive. $5 a cup. Beans that went THROUGH a monkey! Carefully selected, undigested, supposedly washed. Yum. Grind 'em up and steep 'em in boiling water.
I'm so glad I'm poor.
OH YEAH! The way I got onto that topic? Baby walked into the living room tonight with a dish and announced, "Oh no! There's squirrel poop in my coffee!" DH told me that it wasn't as far-fetched as one might think, and then told me about the monkey poop coffee. Eww.
Not only is it appalling, it is apparently quite exclusive. $5 a cup. Beans that went THROUGH a monkey! Carefully selected, undigested, supposedly washed. Yum. Grind 'em up and steep 'em in boiling water.
I'm so glad I'm poor.
OH YEAH! The way I got onto that topic? Baby walked into the living room tonight with a dish and announced, "Oh no! There's squirrel poop in my coffee!" DH told me that it wasn't as far-fetched as one might think, and then told me about the monkey poop coffee. Eww.
Icy Day
Everything is covered in a coat of snow and ice this morning. Thankfully, the driveway and road seem to be clear enough.
Little Boy slept next door last night. He'll be home in a couple minutes, and then the noise level will raise considerably. We had a quiet evening with Baby last night. I think she enjoyed getting all our attention.
My new nephew was born early this morning! I am so glad he's here, and he's healthy, and cuter than anything! I had hoped he'd wait so his Mamma could get her list done, but the things on that list can wait!
It's a good day; ice and all.
Little Boy slept next door last night. He'll be home in a couple minutes, and then the noise level will raise considerably. We had a quiet evening with Baby last night. I think she enjoyed getting all our attention.
My new nephew was born early this morning! I am so glad he's here, and he's healthy, and cuter than anything! I had hoped he'd wait so his Mamma could get her list done, but the things on that list can wait!
It's a good day; ice and all.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
What is up with barfing?
So Baby was sitting on the couch this morning whining. She wanted her cup and something to eat. I got her a breakfast bar, and went to fix Little Boy a bowl of cereal. She started hollering that she barfed. I checked on her and she had spit up a lot of phlegm on her blankie. I got her a clean blankie, and went back into the kitchen. She repeated. I got her another blankie, and went back to her room to look for an old cloth didie for her to hold. She repeated, only this time she got off the couch and hit the floor, the coffee table, her knit hat, her stuffed kitten. Granted, it was mostly water and some yellowy-green gunk, but .... the smell. That's what always gets me the worst.
So she's in the tub and Little Boy is cruising around.
My kids have barfed more in the last month or so than they have their whole little lives. What is up with THAT!
So she's in the tub and Little Boy is cruising around.
My kids have barfed more in the last month or so than they have their whole little lives. What is up with THAT!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Another kind of moon
So my daughter and I are home tonight while the guys are next door. She was being silly and pulled down her pants and didie. When I asked her what she was doing, she turned around so I could see her little heinie and she laughed!
Ok - I laughed the first time, but then I told her it wasn't funny anymore. Apparently, she has decided it still is.
Ok - I laughed the first time, but then I told her it wasn't funny anymore. Apparently, she has decided it still is.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Full moon and high blood pressure
I know the full moon was last Friday, but I'm feeling like it could have been today! Here are some pictures DH took from our front porch at the moon coming up over the mountain across the road.
Here is a picture of the most pathetic donkey you will ever see.
I had 4 pieces of brown felt and 35 minutes. Good thing I called to ask. At 6 pm I was told Little Boy was going to be a donkey in the Christmas program that started at 7 pm. Practice started at 6:15 pm. I grabbed stuff and ran out of the house. Needless to say, my blood pressure was up. And sadly, his horrible little costume was NOT the worst part of the program. The married couple heading it up were given way more than they were capable of handling.
So glad Grandma and Granddad were able to get out and see how great the program was. (ROLLING EYES!)
Here is a picture of the most pathetic donkey you will ever see.
I had 4 pieces of brown felt and 35 minutes. Good thing I called to ask. At 6 pm I was told Little Boy was going to be a donkey in the Christmas program that started at 7 pm. Practice started at 6:15 pm. I grabbed stuff and ran out of the house. Needless to say, my blood pressure was up. And sadly, his horrible little costume was NOT the worst part of the program. The married couple heading it up were given way more than they were capable of handling.
So glad Grandma and Granddad were able to get out and see how great the program was. (ROLLING EYES!)
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Ladies' Christmas party and our Friday night
So, Thursday, I ran around like a mad-woman, fixing food up to the last minute, washing my hair, getting ready and changing clothes, dressing Baby, and the ladies showed up a couple minutes after 7. All 6 of them. I know of at least one person (who reads this blog) who told me she was coming who didn't show up. What happened? She wasn't afraid of the rain at 40 degrees, was she?
We visited a bit, had a devotional, had our jingle gift exchange, ate and ate and ate, and then exchanged cookies. And soon after, the ladies left, and Baby and I were here alone. And I was basically left a cripple.
My house was beautifully clean, until you looked in MY room. That's where I stashed all the stuff I didn't know what to do with, or didn't have time to deal with. Oh well. I was ahead of the game this year. Instead of ending up with a pile of stuff, I used banker's boxes. That way, each box was from an area. When I need to find something, I find the box from that area and I can easily find what I want.
I told my husband that one of these years I would get our house clean for real. But it won't be for the ladies' Christmas party. I am not hosting it next year. DH told me good, b/c he wasn't going to let me, anyway.
Friday was a total recuperation day. I wasn't able to get off the couch until about 12:30 to fix the kids some lunch. After that I puttered around. Friday for supper we went to Denny's. It is nice to take the kids out to eat now that they can behave in public. We came home and DH and I had pies from McDs and the kids had vanilla shakes from there. Little Boy told us he had really eaten too much, and his belly hurt. I gave him some gas drops; I thought that would help.
About midnight, he came into our room. We had just gotten into bed and turned off the light. He was soaked from his belly to his knees. We found clean jammies and changed his bedding. DH put him in the shower and about 4o minutes later, we had him tucked back into bed. As I was tucking him in, there was a niggling thought that he didn't look like he was completely well.
A little before 2, I heard him get up and go into the bathroom to pee and he got a little drink. About 5 minutes later, he was standing in our doorway - he had barfed in his bed. So DH and I got up. I took the boy, DH took the bed. How thankful I am for a husband who will do that! I got my son's clothes off, got him sprayed off in the shower and ran him a bath. We left him in there until we got things taken care of in his room.
We finally got him back into bed, armed with a barf bag and clear, practiced instructions on how to use it. And I got into bed. DH stayed up; he waited for hot water and got a shower, and then came back to bed. I hope he wasn't resentful that I was asleep and VERY likely snoring my head off.
Today, we've made Little Boy stay calm and as inactive as you can keep a 5 year old boy. We think he ate something that didn't agree with him, or he just ate too much. But we don't want to chance it. His face looked overly flushed. He thought maybe he should stay home and not go to the Christmas program tomorrow evening. "I might barf while I'm singing, Mommy."
Good try, huh?
We visited a bit, had a devotional, had our jingle gift exchange, ate and ate and ate, and then exchanged cookies. And soon after, the ladies left, and Baby and I were here alone. And I was basically left a cripple.
My house was beautifully clean, until you looked in MY room. That's where I stashed all the stuff I didn't know what to do with, or didn't have time to deal with. Oh well. I was ahead of the game this year. Instead of ending up with a pile of stuff, I used banker's boxes. That way, each box was from an area. When I need to find something, I find the box from that area and I can easily find what I want.
I told my husband that one of these years I would get our house clean for real. But it won't be for the ladies' Christmas party. I am not hosting it next year. DH told me good, b/c he wasn't going to let me, anyway.
Friday was a total recuperation day. I wasn't able to get off the couch until about 12:30 to fix the kids some lunch. After that I puttered around. Friday for supper we went to Denny's. It is nice to take the kids out to eat now that they can behave in public. We came home and DH and I had pies from McDs and the kids had vanilla shakes from there. Little Boy told us he had really eaten too much, and his belly hurt. I gave him some gas drops; I thought that would help.
About midnight, he came into our room. We had just gotten into bed and turned off the light. He was soaked from his belly to his knees. We found clean jammies and changed his bedding. DH put him in the shower and about 4o minutes later, we had him tucked back into bed. As I was tucking him in, there was a niggling thought that he didn't look like he was completely well.
A little before 2, I heard him get up and go into the bathroom to pee and he got a little drink. About 5 minutes later, he was standing in our doorway - he had barfed in his bed. So DH and I got up. I took the boy, DH took the bed. How thankful I am for a husband who will do that! I got my son's clothes off, got him sprayed off in the shower and ran him a bath. We left him in there until we got things taken care of in his room.
We finally got him back into bed, armed with a barf bag and clear, practiced instructions on how to use it. And I got into bed. DH stayed up; he waited for hot water and got a shower, and then came back to bed. I hope he wasn't resentful that I was asleep and VERY likely snoring my head off.
Today, we've made Little Boy stay calm and as inactive as you can keep a 5 year old boy. We think he ate something that didn't agree with him, or he just ate too much. But we don't want to chance it. His face looked overly flushed. He thought maybe he should stay home and not go to the Christmas program tomorrow evening. "I might barf while I'm singing, Mommy."
Good try, huh?
Friday, December 12, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Can I just go to sleep?
I cannot get myself in the mood for Christmas. I would really love to just crawl into bed, go to sleep, and wake up in January. How's that for Scrooge-y? I don't feel like decorating, shopping, baking ... nothing. If I didn't have kids, I don't think I'd bother. I don't know why I'm feeling this way, either.
But I know I'd feel guilty forever, so I guess we'll just have to do something.
Bah humbug.
But I know I'd feel guilty forever, so I guess we'll just have to do something.
Bah humbug.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
I can walk?
We spent the morning cleaning Baby's room. I had to make room for the toys in the living room. Everything is in there now. While we were working, Baby said, "I have blood!" I looked over at her, and there was a miniscule speck of blood where a tiny scab had been. We went into the bathroom and I blotted the blood. As I was putting a band-aid on her, she asked, "I can walk?"
And I thought I was dramatic.
And I thought I was dramatic.
Friday, December 5, 2008
We took down the crib
Baby's last nap in her crib.It was a big day here. We took down the crib. It's been in that room for 5 1/2 years now, and I cried. We're done with having babies, and that's a good thing, but I sure miss having an infant, in theory, anyway.
I straightened things up, put a vinyl sheet and a new mattress pad on the bed, and re-made the bed with Baby's cute bedding.
She was so excited to sleep in it. I'm watching her on our TV monitor - she's been in there for awhile now. I've had to go in twice and DH went in once so far. She's in there talking and singing, so it may take awhile for her to go to sleep. 
At least I'm still changing didies for a couple more days. I guess that should be incentive to embrace this stage a bit more.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Glad THAT's over!
So as we were walking out the door today, the hospital called. The dentist had a cancellation, and Little Boy was moved up. So when we got there we didn't have to wait so long.
He did NOT like the idea of taking off his clothes, especially to put on a GOWN. He didn't want to take off his shoes, and he did NOT want to get up on "that bed." DH and I eventually had to "help" him. And when it was time to drink the sleepy syrup, he balked. He did not want to go to sleep! We finally got him calmed down and he drank it. Within a couple minutes, he started smiling like a goofball, and had a difficult time keeping his head up and his eyes straight. DH and I were trying to not laugh at him, but when we did, he didn't seem to mind. I had brought along some little activity things for him to do and he was attempting to color a picture with markers. It was funny.
They moved him over closer to the OR, and the dentist came out to talk to us. The nurses were talking to him, trying to keep him occupied. One nurse asked him, "(his name)? Is that the name you go by? (his name)?" He shook his head no. I asked him what he wanted to be called.
He leaned forward, with a funny smile on his face, and his head tilted down so he was looking at my out of the tops of his eyes, and said, "Mr. (our last name)." DH and I were about to roll on the floor. It was like he was a funny drunk. When we told the nurses, dentist and anesthesiologist, we were all laughing. And so was Little Boy. He kissed us good-bye, and they wheeled him away. I kept trying to think of how funny he was, and not think about where he was going and what they were going to do to him.
We heard him coming when they brought him out to recovery. He was NOT happy anymore. He wanted them to take those silver teeth out! And he wanted to finish coloring his picture for the nurse! And he wanted that IV out of his arm, the heart monitor patches off, the blood pressure clip OFF his toe, and he wanted to get rid of the gown! We gave in on all counts, and then for about 45 minutes tried to convince him to take a nap. I finally got onto the gurney with him - quite the sight - and he fell asleep. Once I was sure he was sleeping, I got off of there.
Aunt Cathy stopped by when he woke up. He was much sweeter, but still a bit dopey. We stopped and ate supper at Denny's and came home. We had a great seat to watch the town Christmas parade where we were stuck in traffic. We got home, got Baby from G&Gs (another whole story about HER day!), and put them in bed. All by 8:30 pm.
And as I was writing this, our pastor called to see how things had gone, and to let us know they were stopping by tomorrow about noon to give Little Boy a little gift. Very thoughtful and nice, but my house isn't company ready. I'll have to give it a swipe in the morning. I don't have the energy to do anything right now.
He did NOT like the idea of taking off his clothes, especially to put on a GOWN. He didn't want to take off his shoes, and he did NOT want to get up on "that bed." DH and I eventually had to "help" him. And when it was time to drink the sleepy syrup, he balked. He did not want to go to sleep! We finally got him calmed down and he drank it. Within a couple minutes, he started smiling like a goofball, and had a difficult time keeping his head up and his eyes straight. DH and I were trying to not laugh at him, but when we did, he didn't seem to mind. I had brought along some little activity things for him to do and he was attempting to color a picture with markers. It was funny.
They moved him over closer to the OR, and the dentist came out to talk to us. The nurses were talking to him, trying to keep him occupied. One nurse asked him, "(his name)? Is that the name you go by? (his name)?" He shook his head no. I asked him what he wanted to be called.
He leaned forward, with a funny smile on his face, and his head tilted down so he was looking at my out of the tops of his eyes, and said, "Mr. (our last name)." DH and I were about to roll on the floor. It was like he was a funny drunk. When we told the nurses, dentist and anesthesiologist, we were all laughing. And so was Little Boy. He kissed us good-bye, and they wheeled him away. I kept trying to think of how funny he was, and not think about where he was going and what they were going to do to him.
We heard him coming when they brought him out to recovery. He was NOT happy anymore. He wanted them to take those silver teeth out! And he wanted to finish coloring his picture for the nurse! And he wanted that IV out of his arm, the heart monitor patches off, the blood pressure clip OFF his toe, and he wanted to get rid of the gown! We gave in on all counts, and then for about 45 minutes tried to convince him to take a nap. I finally got onto the gurney with him - quite the sight - and he fell asleep. Once I was sure he was sleeping, I got off of there.
Aunt Cathy stopped by when he woke up. He was much sweeter, but still a bit dopey. We stopped and ate supper at Denny's and came home. We had a great seat to watch the town Christmas parade where we were stuck in traffic. We got home, got Baby from G&Gs (another whole story about HER day!), and put them in bed. All by 8:30 pm.
And as I was writing this, our pastor called to see how things had gone, and to let us know they were stopping by tomorrow about noon to give Little Boy a little gift. Very thoughtful and nice, but my house isn't company ready. I'll have to give it a swipe in the morning. I don't have the energy to do anything right now.
Dental Day
This was taken in the morning, before we left.
Today Little Boy goes in for his dental work. I felt so bad giving him a couple ounces of apple juice for breakfast. When I told him that was all he'd get for the morning, he was so pitiful. "But what if I get hungry?" I told him he will get hungry, but reminded him how he gagged getting his x-rays, and that the dentist doesn't want him to throw up when he's getting his teeth fixed. He understood that, but while he was playing in the tub, I went into the kitchen, closed the door and guiltily ate my bowl of Cheerios.
He has to be at the hospital at 11:30, is supposed to go in for surgery at 1:30 which should take a couple hours, and then he'll be in recovery for a couple hours. So, basically, we'll be there all day. DH worked 16 hours yesterday/today. I'm sure he'll be great company today. (rolling eyes)
He just asked me if he could go to G&G's when we get home before his nap. Boy is he off.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
N is for Nest
Little Boy is working on the letter N right now. N is for nest, and we are learning from nests that our Father provides good things for us. Today, he made a nest from brown clay, and Mommy added a white bird and 3 white eggs at his request. Baby was mollified by playing with play-doh.
Then Little Boy was invited to help Grandma decorate the tree. Baby was appeased by making a couple ornaments for presents for G & G. Little Boy ate lunch with G&G. Baby was pacified by going to Bessie's shop for ice cream. She was not happy to learn that LB was napping next door, but resigned herself to munching on her "Chickie Nuggets". When she woke up and learned that he was still there, she was not a happy camper. She just asked where he was, and I told her he went to eat dinner with G&G and she cried. I keep reminding her that she will get to spend time there tomorrow while LB is at the hospital getting his teeth fixed. And I bought her a Sleeping Beauty bottle of bubble bath, but she is not happy that I told her she could take it with her next door tomorrow and G&G could give her a bath. She wants a bubble bath "right nooooooooowwwwwww."
Poor little baby.
Then Little Boy was invited to help Grandma decorate the tree. Baby was appeased by making a couple ornaments for presents for G & G. Little Boy ate lunch with G&G. Baby was pacified by going to Bessie's shop for ice cream. She was not happy to learn that LB was napping next door, but resigned herself to munching on her "Chickie Nuggets". When she woke up and learned that he was still there, she was not a happy camper. She just asked where he was, and I told her he went to eat dinner with G&G and she cried. I keep reminding her that she will get to spend time there tomorrow while LB is at the hospital getting his teeth fixed. And I bought her a Sleeping Beauty bottle of bubble bath, but she is not happy that I told her she could take it with her next door tomorrow and G&G could give her a bath. She wants a bubble bath "right nooooooooowwwwwww."
Poor little baby.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Sunday at Home
We are staying home today. It is raining. And freezing. And we live on a mountain. Not a good combination, unless you are hoping to get a new car after wrecking the one you own. I called the sub about a half hour ago when it was barely misting. Now it's RAINING.
And both my kids have stuffy noses. Not the end of the world, but Little Boy has his dental surgery Thursday, and I need to get him healthy before then. Church isn't the place to do that.
So DH worked last shift last night and we are going to have a quiet morning while he sleeps.
Guess we won't be getting McD's for lunch. Rats.
And both my kids have stuffy noses. Not the end of the world, but Little Boy has his dental surgery Thursday, and I need to get him healthy before then. Church isn't the place to do that.
So DH worked last shift last night and we are going to have a quiet morning while he sleeps.
Guess we won't be getting McD's for lunch. Rats.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Thanksgiving Day 2008
We had a nice Thanksgiving. It's been very laid back and relaxing. Thursday, I ran to the grocery store in the morning. I really expected it would be packed, but there were only a few people wandering around. I needed to pick up enough basics to get us through the crazy days to come.
We had a quiet morning, a light lunch, and put the kids down. I took an hour nap and got up and made sweet potatoes and rolls. When the kids got up, we walked across the yard to the in-law's house and sat down to a delicious meal. DH's sister and her husband were there so there were 8 of us.
Somewhere near the middle of the meal, Little Boy decided to announce that Mommy has had intestinal problems in more detail. I told him that was last week, Mommy feels much better now and that we don't talk about that at the table. Daddy chimed in, Grandma chimed in, Granddad chimed in, and when I looked at Little Boy, his little eyes were full of tears. Daddy took him in the other room to comfort him, and I said he must have been embarrassed. Poor kid.
Don't we all have that problem at one time or another? No, I don't mean the norovirus. I mean, saying something without thinking and completely mortifying ones self? I remember a couple times. One recently. I was saying something, and the whole time I was talking, I was thinking, "Stop talking, stop talking, STOP TALKING." But while my head was thinking that, my mouth just kept blabbing away.
The book of James has always been a favorite. I feel I've made huge strides since I got saved in 1989. I was the most sarcastic person I knew. I know I was attempting to protect myself from other people's comments. But I realized I was being more caustic than sarcastic. I made a concerted effort to change that. I have worked over the years on not being negative, not gossiping, not talking without listening, and yet, there I was, not able to stop my mouth.
So, when I think of poor Little Boy, sitting there with his eyes full of tears, embarrassed, I can empathize. And I made sure to tell him how very much I love him.
We had a quiet morning, a light lunch, and put the kids down. I took an hour nap and got up and made sweet potatoes and rolls. When the kids got up, we walked across the yard to the in-law's house and sat down to a delicious meal. DH's sister and her husband were there so there were 8 of us.
Somewhere near the middle of the meal, Little Boy decided to announce that Mommy has had intestinal problems in more detail. I told him that was last week, Mommy feels much better now and that we don't talk about that at the table. Daddy chimed in, Grandma chimed in, Granddad chimed in, and when I looked at Little Boy, his little eyes were full of tears. Daddy took him in the other room to comfort him, and I said he must have been embarrassed. Poor kid.
Don't we all have that problem at one time or another? No, I don't mean the norovirus. I mean, saying something without thinking and completely mortifying ones self? I remember a couple times. One recently. I was saying something, and the whole time I was talking, I was thinking, "Stop talking, stop talking, STOP TALKING." But while my head was thinking that, my mouth just kept blabbing away.
The book of James has always been a favorite. I feel I've made huge strides since I got saved in 1989. I was the most sarcastic person I knew. I know I was attempting to protect myself from other people's comments. But I realized I was being more caustic than sarcastic. I made a concerted effort to change that. I have worked over the years on not being negative, not gossiping, not talking without listening, and yet, there I was, not able to stop my mouth.
So, when I think of poor Little Boy, sitting there with his eyes full of tears, embarrassed, I can empathize. And I made sure to tell him how very much I love him.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Little Boy's prayer request
My son loves snow. He has asked all summer long when it would snow. So when he got up this morning and saw two inches on the ground, he was super excited. He was outside at 7:30 am, and again about 8:30. But the sun came out and he was very upset. I told him it would snow again.
He sat at the front window and asked Jesus to make the sun go behind the clouds and send more snow. "Please, Jesus."
So this is what we saw out the window while we were eating lunch. He told me, "Mommy, Jesus answered my prayer!"Monday, November 17, 2008
Faith of a little child
Little Boy and Baby are playing with their "magic" wands. Little Boy was covered up with a blanket, and Baby had the wand. She said, "Magic, magic. Hocus, pocus, pocus!" She got closer and looked under the blanket - "Are you still there? Ugh." And she looked at the wand like it must be defective.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Froggy Day
Baby woke up this morning and looked out the window.
"Oh, man. It's a froggy day." And she leaned her chin on her hand.
We went down the hill to town and she and Little Boy were relieved that there was not fog down there. It's a different world up here; that's for sure.
"Oh, man. It's a froggy day." And she leaned her chin on her hand.
We went down the hill to town and she and Little Boy were relieved that there was not fog down there. It's a different world up here; that's for sure.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
So disappointing
This morning I got the kids ready and in the car in plenty of time to make it to story time at the library. We got about 2 blocks away and the traffic was backed up. The fireman waved us around and down a side street - they weren't letting anyone through. We went around the town, got gas, and I thought maybe we could get to the library from the other direction. Nope. So - plan B - we came back to our town and stopped at the library here in town to pick up some books I have on hold, but it was closed. Baby cried when we climbed back into the car.
Plan C - I decided to take them to Bessie's shop for lunch if she was working - we drove past and she wasn't working. They started crying, again. So we picked up Happy Meals on the way home, and had a picnic in the living room. Maybe we'll make it next time.
Plan C - I decided to take them to Bessie's shop for lunch if she was working - we drove past and she wasn't working. They started crying, again. So we picked up Happy Meals on the way home, and had a picnic in the living room. Maybe we'll make it next time.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Smarmy love
My kids like to watch Extreme Makeover Home Edition, but it airs during church Sunday nights. We have a DVR that holds 2 hours of programs, so we get home, change into jammies and settle in to watch EMHE. We were on our way home last night and Little Boy and Baby were not getting along very well in the back seat, nor were they quiet. I told them they needed to be good, or I wasn't going to allow them to watch EMHE. Here's what DH and I heard: "Oh {sister} (he said her name), I love you so much!" "Oh, you are my best brother!" "Oh, let me hold your hand." "I love you, my brother." DH and I were in the front seat trying to not laugh or barf at the same time. It was hysterical. How smarmy!
So, we got home and backed up the recorder and were watching the end of the race and the recorder froze and turned itself off. So much for EMHE. Little Boy looked at me and said very sadly, "I guess we'll have to wait for next week." Poor little boy - all that mushiness for naught.
So, we got home and backed up the recorder and were watching the end of the race and the recorder froze and turned itself off. So much for EMHE. Little Boy looked at me and said very sadly, "I guess we'll have to wait for next week." Poor little boy - all that mushiness for naught.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Our celebration dinner
Last night we had a celebration dinner. We had steak, curly fries, baked beans, green beans and Welch's Sparkling Grape Juice. I pulled out the pretty glasses for Husband and me, and pulled out the Denny's rocket cups with curly straws for the kids. We had a "toast" - 4 more years - 4 more good years for our family. Had John McCain pulled off an upset, it would have been much more exuberant.
After dinner, my son was walking through the living room and put his fists in the air as he chanted, "John Mc-Cain, John Mc-Cain!" I hugged him and told him that's how I felt, too.
I had to make a conscious decision to have a good attitude last night. I know I am overly competitive and the stakes in the political election are so high that I know I could very easily fall into depression. Knowing I need to trust the Lord and that everything is in His control doesn't just magically fix the way I feel. But I know my kids need to see from me that everything is going to be ok - that God will take care of us. My son told me he is sad John McCain didn't win.
I have a long way to go in accepting Obama as MY president.
After dinner, my son was walking through the living room and put his fists in the air as he chanted, "John Mc-Cain, John Mc-Cain!" I hugged him and told him that's how I felt, too.
I had to make a conscious decision to have a good attitude last night. I know I am overly competitive and the stakes in the political election are so high that I know I could very easily fall into depression. Knowing I need to trust the Lord and that everything is in His control doesn't just magically fix the way I feel. But I know my kids need to see from me that everything is going to be ok - that God will take care of us. My son told me he is sad John McCain didn't win.
I have a long way to go in accepting Obama as MY president.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
57 Million Patriots
In spite of yesterday's tragedy, I am encouraged that there were over 57,000,000 people in our country did NOT vote for Obama.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Completely sickened
I am sickened that Obama has won. I cannot ever see myself referring to him as "President". I am physically ill, and I told my DH that if it were not for my children, I would be in bed all day tomorrow with the blankets pulled up over my head.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Early morning adventures
are for the birds. LOL. I am definitely not a morning person. Unless you mean staying up until the wee hours of the morning, of course.
This morning the alarm clock went off at 5:10 am and then I received a wake-up call from my husband 5 minutes later. I had to get myself up and get a shower, get dressed and ready to leave the house at 7:10. See, I am one of those lucky people chosen to serve for a month as a jurist, and this morning was our initiation service.
I am actually hoping to be chosen as a jurist, because I think the whole process is so interesting and critical for our country.
I need to close my eyes for a couple minutes while the kids play quietly. Then I'll rouse myself long enough to put something on 2 plates for the kids to eat. Hope it's edible. I'm sure the kids will feel the same way.
This morning the alarm clock went off at 5:10 am and then I received a wake-up call from my husband 5 minutes later. I had to get myself up and get a shower, get dressed and ready to leave the house at 7:10. See, I am one of those lucky people chosen to serve for a month as a jurist, and this morning was our initiation service.
I am actually hoping to be chosen as a jurist, because I think the whole process is so interesting and critical for our country.
I need to close my eyes for a couple minutes while the kids play quietly. Then I'll rouse myself long enough to put something on 2 plates for the kids to eat. Hope it's edible. I'm sure the kids will feel the same way.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
I Hate People
Ok, I know - we are supposed to love as Christ loved us. But there are at least a couple dozen times throughout the day when my sinful flesh takes over, and I don't even come close to that holy virtue.
Like today. It started out with such promise! My sweet husband worked all night long, but he stopped at the quick mart and brought home milk and eggs. (I haven't made it to the store yet this week.) AND he brought home McDonald's for breakfast! (I usually buy donuts or sweet rolls for Sunday AM - I don't cook on Sunday's.) He helped me get the kids dressed, he put the car seats in the car, and he helped get the kids into their seats. Then he went into the house to try to get some sleep while I took the kids to church.
I had 5 kids in class today. I am amazed that each week I have a different combination of kids, but I always have more than I used to. If I could only get them all to come on the same Sunday, I'd have a full room! They were excited as we started building our model of the Ark of the Covenant - so many things to learn from it!
And then... I gathered my things after class, gathered my son from his class, and made our way to the sanctuary. I was hoping the pastor's wife had remembered that I have requested Baby be taken straight to the nursery from her class, but no. I know she must have a million things on her mind each Sunday, but I have asked repeatedly. I got Little Boy settled into the pew, and took Baby down to the nursery.
No worker. So now I'm stuck in the dilemma I've been in way too frequently lately. Do I stay with Baby and leave my 5 year old to sit upstairs alone? Do I get her occupied long enough to dash back up and grab my son or direct a deacon to have my son sit with someone? Do I trudge back up the stairs with Baby in tow to find someone to work in the nursery or to collect my son to join us in the nursery? Do I wait for the deacon who comes around to get a head count? Or should I get my children and just go home.
And the anger sets in. Even when a nursery worker shows up, they show up after the service has started, and I get to walk into the service late - all the way to the front of the church where we sit each week. Many times, the person comes downstairs after the first song has been sung and says, "I was sitting there and just looked at the bulletin. I had no idea I was supposed to be in the nursery!" And I lie - "It's ok; I understand."
I don't understand. If I am scheduled to participate in the services in some way, I make sure I don't forget. I take my participation seriously. What I do to prepare allows others to worship in a more meaningful way. And so, there I sat. Frustrated, concerned, irritated, and yes, angry.
While I was pacing in the church basement, I located my crock pot from Tuesday - I made potato soup and a huge tray of sandwiches for the dinner our church put together for the special pastors' service during our week of revival. But I couldn't find my tray. It's a heavy, aluminum baking tray - 15x10x2 - and it was no where to be found. The pastor's wife pulled a couple trays out from the cabinet, but I don't think they were mine - they didn't look big enough. I'll look at them again tonight with a tape measure in hand. And I am partially to blame - I do not have my name on it. But. I feel like in our tiny church, I should be able to take items from my home to church with the anticipation that I will be able to take those same items home again.
Don't get me started on the drive home. Just let me say, that there are very few people in our area who actually passed a test to get their drivers' licenses. And I don't know where I picked up the two snarling, barking animals in the back seat. Surely, they are not the cute, lovable, clean children I took with me this morning.
So, while I get frazzled, I don't actually HATE people, but I think I need a good nap.
Like today. It started out with such promise! My sweet husband worked all night long, but he stopped at the quick mart and brought home milk and eggs. (I haven't made it to the store yet this week.) AND he brought home McDonald's for breakfast! (I usually buy donuts or sweet rolls for Sunday AM - I don't cook on Sunday's.) He helped me get the kids dressed, he put the car seats in the car, and he helped get the kids into their seats. Then he went into the house to try to get some sleep while I took the kids to church.
I had 5 kids in class today. I am amazed that each week I have a different combination of kids, but I always have more than I used to. If I could only get them all to come on the same Sunday, I'd have a full room! They were excited as we started building our model of the Ark of the Covenant - so many things to learn from it!
And then... I gathered my things after class, gathered my son from his class, and made our way to the sanctuary. I was hoping the pastor's wife had remembered that I have requested Baby be taken straight to the nursery from her class, but no. I know she must have a million things on her mind each Sunday, but I have asked repeatedly. I got Little Boy settled into the pew, and took Baby down to the nursery.
No worker. So now I'm stuck in the dilemma I've been in way too frequently lately. Do I stay with Baby and leave my 5 year old to sit upstairs alone? Do I get her occupied long enough to dash back up and grab my son or direct a deacon to have my son sit with someone? Do I trudge back up the stairs with Baby in tow to find someone to work in the nursery or to collect my son to join us in the nursery? Do I wait for the deacon who comes around to get a head count? Or should I get my children and just go home.
And the anger sets in. Even when a nursery worker shows up, they show up after the service has started, and I get to walk into the service late - all the way to the front of the church where we sit each week. Many times, the person comes downstairs after the first song has been sung and says, "I was sitting there and just looked at the bulletin. I had no idea I was supposed to be in the nursery!" And I lie - "It's ok; I understand."
I don't understand. If I am scheduled to participate in the services in some way, I make sure I don't forget. I take my participation seriously. What I do to prepare allows others to worship in a more meaningful way. And so, there I sat. Frustrated, concerned, irritated, and yes, angry.
While I was pacing in the church basement, I located my crock pot from Tuesday - I made potato soup and a huge tray of sandwiches for the dinner our church put together for the special pastors' service during our week of revival. But I couldn't find my tray. It's a heavy, aluminum baking tray - 15x10x2 - and it was no where to be found. The pastor's wife pulled a couple trays out from the cabinet, but I don't think they were mine - they didn't look big enough. I'll look at them again tonight with a tape measure in hand. And I am partially to blame - I do not have my name on it. But. I feel like in our tiny church, I should be able to take items from my home to church with the anticipation that I will be able to take those same items home again.
Don't get me started on the drive home. Just let me say, that there are very few people in our area who actually passed a test to get their drivers' licenses. And I don't know where I picked up the two snarling, barking animals in the back seat. Surely, they are not the cute, lovable, clean children I took with me this morning.
So, while I get frazzled, I don't actually HATE people, but I think I need a good nap.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Nudist
Yesterday, Baby was throwing a little fit. Daddy put her in her bed so she'd have a chance to settle down. I asked him to change her shirt if he was putting her in there for her nap (it had tie strings on it). He took off her shirt and she wouldn't let him put a different shirt on her. So he put her in bed sans shirt. She wasn't very happy, and he left the room. When he went back to check on her a few minutes later, she was sitting in her bed completely nude. She told Daddy she didn't want to wear that didie. He called me to see her, and I had to hurry out so she didn't see me laughing. She looked like a little monkey in there. I left for my appointment, and eventually, Daddy got control of the zoo animals.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Getting Sick, Again
Yesterday afternoon, I started feeling that all-too familiar feeling of scratchy throat and post-nasal drainage. I took some Nyquil last night and slept so soundly that when I woke up this morning, I was in terrible pain! I had missed my middle-of-the night bathroom break.
Now we are all sick. My kids are so congested, and my husband has a terrible cough. I guess with all the germs that accompany coughing and sneezing and nose-blowing, it was inevitable that I would catch something.
Now we are all sick. My kids are so congested, and my husband has a terrible cough. I guess with all the germs that accompany coughing and sneezing and nose-blowing, it was inevitable that I would catch something.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Busy Day #2
We got out the door later than I had hoped, and made our way to Baltimore. It was farther than I had planned, and Gina had to wait longer than I would have wanted anyone to have to wait.
We (I) got turned around on our way home and we saw some very pretty homes. LOL. We ate lunch, and went to the Outlet Stores to find shoes for two children who have very wide feet. They didn't have dress shoes in Little Boy's size, but we'll look again next week on our way back to the airport. I'd really like to find some. We found tennies in the same style he's been wearing, so we won't have any problems getting him to wear them.
We got home about 6:30 and I fixed supper. I should have had something simple to bring home or fix but I wasn't that prepared. So we ate grilled chicken, oven fries and broccoli. Did I mention all items were frozen when I started tonight?
So far things are going great, and I'm looking forward to a good evening. I just heard Baby crying. Someone should slap me for jinxing a good night's rest.
We (I) got turned around on our way home and we saw some very pretty homes. LOL. We ate lunch, and went to the Outlet Stores to find shoes for two children who have very wide feet. They didn't have dress shoes in Little Boy's size, but we'll look again next week on our way back to the airport. I'd really like to find some. We found tennies in the same style he's been wearing, so we won't have any problems getting him to wear them.
We got home about 6:30 and I fixed supper. I should have had something simple to bring home or fix but I wasn't that prepared. So we ate grilled chicken, oven fries and broccoli. Did I mention all items were frozen when I started tonight?
So far things are going great, and I'm looking forward to a good evening. I just heard Baby crying. Someone should slap me for jinxing a good night's rest.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Long day #1
Little Boy waited patiently at the front window for G&G to come. Grandma had a dentist's appt. this morning for a tooth that is giving her trouble. They picked him up, and I consoled Baby. We left the house in plenty of time today. It's so nice to arrive at the clinic and be able to take our time checking in! I used the stroller today for Baby since she's been feeling so badly. I knew I couldn't carry her from the parking lot to the clinic. I don't care what people thought.
Considering how she's been feeling, she did GREAT. We got the regular assistant today, thankfully. When I told her how sick Baby's been, she did a very abbreviated version of the testing. We get to go 3 months without patching. Yea! After 3 months, they will evaluate her again, and we'll go from there. (For anyone who may be wondering, both of her eyes turn out to the sides intermittently - one at a time.) Patching has just about corrected the problem completely.
Then we went to the "big" store - Sam's. And I spent way too much. I about fainted when the cashier told me the amount. But DH said it's ok, and not to feel badly. Such a good husband.
We started the long drive home, and Baby started getting a bit fussy. I decided I could not eat McD's one more time - we've eaten it way too often lately - so we stopped at Perkins. And she fell apart. We muddled through and drove the rest of the way to the lake house to pick up Little Boy. Neither kid was happy to leave, but we got home and I had them in bed in 15 minutes! May be a new record. LOL.
Looking forward to getting home tomorrow already.
Considering how she's been feeling, she did GREAT. We got the regular assistant today, thankfully. When I told her how sick Baby's been, she did a very abbreviated version of the testing. We get to go 3 months without patching. Yea! After 3 months, they will evaluate her again, and we'll go from there. (For anyone who may be wondering, both of her eyes turn out to the sides intermittently - one at a time.) Patching has just about corrected the problem completely.
Then we went to the "big" store - Sam's. And I spent way too much. I about fainted when the cashier told me the amount. But DH said it's ok, and not to feel badly. Such a good husband.
We started the long drive home, and Baby started getting a bit fussy. I decided I could not eat McD's one more time - we've eaten it way too often lately - so we stopped at Perkins. And she fell apart. We muddled through and drove the rest of the way to the lake house to pick up Little Boy. Neither kid was happy to leave, but we got home and I had them in bed in 15 minutes! May be a new record. LOL.
Looking forward to getting home tomorrow already.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Run, run, run!
Maybe you are one of those people who have to run errands and go to appointments every day, but I am not. I don't enjoy dragging my kids around, nor do they. But this week is turning into one of those weeks.
Baby was supposed to see the eye doctor today, but when I got her up she was on fire. I gave her Tylenol before I even checked her temp. 104.0. Way too high. We got her into the tub, and soon she started cooling off.
I called and rescheduled her eye appointment for tomorrow, and called the pediatrician. Can I just say how much I love our doctor. He is the most gentle man, and I think he is the best doctor at the medical group where we go. We went in this morning and saw him. They tested for strep, but the quick culture came back negative. I figured it was probably a virus.
Poor Baby. She just doesn't have an appetite and she is very whiny. And tomorrow we have to make the trip to the eye doctor in Morgantown. And Thursday we have to drive to Baltimore to pick up a friend at the airport. Thankfully, we have a fairly quiet weekend - so far.
I'm so glad the price of gas has gone down. We're paying $2.69/gal. It's sad that we think that's great.
Baby was supposed to see the eye doctor today, but when I got her up she was on fire. I gave her Tylenol before I even checked her temp. 104.0. Way too high. We got her into the tub, and soon she started cooling off.
I called and rescheduled her eye appointment for tomorrow, and called the pediatrician. Can I just say how much I love our doctor. He is the most gentle man, and I think he is the best doctor at the medical group where we go. We went in this morning and saw him. They tested for strep, but the quick culture came back negative. I figured it was probably a virus.
Poor Baby. She just doesn't have an appetite and she is very whiny. And tomorrow we have to make the trip to the eye doctor in Morgantown. And Thursday we have to drive to Baltimore to pick up a friend at the airport. Thankfully, we have a fairly quiet weekend - so far.
I'm so glad the price of gas has gone down. We're paying $2.69/gal. It's sad that we think that's great.
Monday, October 20, 2008
L-L-Leaf!
Today Little Boy started his 3rd unit study - the letter L. So we're studying about leaves. I wish I could expound on the wonders of the leaf - I think God's Creation is so wonder-full. The miracle of photosynthesis, how and why leaves change color, and all the minutia that just amazes me about something as common and simple as a leaf. (How can anyone think leaves just happened?) I was telling Little Boy that if plants and trees didn't have leaves, they would not grow or live - that God made leaves to do a special job, just like He gives us a special job.
His response: "Wow. God sure is smart!"
Amen.
His response: "Wow. God sure is smart!"
Amen.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
She's an alien!
Tonight I was getting Baby ready for bed. She had some green marker on her hands and arms. She asked me if it was blood. I told her if it was blood, she must be an alien. She jumped to her feet, and started snarling and trying to scratch me. "I'm an alien! Raaaa-roar! Blah blah blah." I was laughing so hard, I almost dropped her off the bed. And then I told her aliens had to go to bed right away, but little girls could watch Extreme Makeover Home Edition. "I'm a little alien girl!" She's just too smart.
Little Boy showing off his new teeth!
Little Boy lost his second tooth the other day, and wanted me to get a picture. His permanent teeth had already come in weeks ago. We're all very happy here to be done with the little, floppy teeth! I'm sure there's a happy orthodontist out there $omewhere.
Out of the mouth of babes...again
We all have our political viewpoint, and the purpose of this post is not to incite any online riots or even dialogue, for that matter. But I laughed out loud at my son, and it seems like that happens too rarely here. He saw an ad on television from the man we will NOT be voting for, and as THAT ONE was speaking, my son sat on the couch and very calmly said, "Lie, lie, lie, lie, lie..." throughout the whole commercial. When I laughed, he said, "What? That guy lies!"
Moral of the story? Be careful how you "brainwash" your children. So far my son thinks Chevy's are "stinkin'", thinks all other people driving on the road are "I-D-10-T"s (thankfully, he doesn't know what that spells), and can spot a McCain/Palin sign a mile off. I love my son.
Moral of the story? Be careful how you "brainwash" your children. So far my son thinks Chevy's are "stinkin'", thinks all other people driving on the road are "I-D-10-T"s (thankfully, he doesn't know what that spells), and can spot a McCain/Palin sign a mile off. I love my son.
Facebook!
A couple weeks ago I decided to look at Facebook. I've heard a lot of people talk about it, and everyone seems to like it better than myspace. So, I made a profile. Last week, I started looking for a couple people, and one friend led to another. I am feeling very blessed to have reconnected with some of my closest friends from college, from teaching and from my years living in the Chicago area. It is always a bit odd to talk to former students who are married and starting their families, but what a blessing to see them living for the Lord!
I even added my husband as my friend! He had to set up a profile for one of his classes, and I never even knew it. I told him about my profile and the friends I had found, and he told me he had set his up last year! We DO communicate here! Honestly! So now he has 2 friends.
Baby got in trouble today. For no apparent reason, she went berserk in Children's Church, and started hitting one of the boys, and she got demoted to the nursery. I really do not know where she got that aggressive, competitive spirit! (Probably her father! LOL) She DID apologize, and she DID get disciplined at home. Sigh. She's so different from her brother.
It's a beautiful Fall day here. Our neighbor's tree is looking so pretty; it was even prettier the other day. I love the smell of fallen leaves. I've been dodging wooly caterpillars on the road, and we got our first frost this morning. Living in the mountains in Fall is just the best. If only my allergies agreed!
I even added my husband as my friend! He had to set up a profile for one of his classes, and I never even knew it. I told him about my profile and the friends I had found, and he told me he had set his up last year! We DO communicate here! Honestly! So now he has 2 friends.
Baby got in trouble today. For no apparent reason, she went berserk in Children's Church, and started hitting one of the boys, and she got demoted to the nursery. I really do not know where she got that aggressive, competitive spirit! (Probably her father! LOL) She DID apologize, and she DID get disciplined at home. Sigh. She's so different from her brother.
It's a beautiful Fall day here. Our neighbor's tree is looking so pretty; it was even prettier the other day. I love the smell of fallen leaves. I've been dodging wooly caterpillars on the road, and we got our first frost this morning. Living in the mountains in Fall is just the best. If only my allergies agreed!
This is part of the view from our front porch!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Dr. Phil and Oprah
I have the television programmed to change the channel to Dr. Phil and Oprah on weekdays. If I'm home and not busy doing something else, I'll turn it on to see the topic of the day. If it's something that interests me, I'll watch it while I can. Many times my son will wake up and I'll turn it off. In our last church, the preacher (see, I can't even call him a pastor!) would incorporate Oprah-bashing into his sermon. I have said in response that I don't watch Oprah to learn about God, and I don't go to church to hear about Oprah. Still stands.
Today's Dr. Phil was mesmerizing. There was a man on the show who has complete amnesia; he was found in Atlanta, GA outside a restaurant door, naked, and beaten early one morning like four years ago. He thinks his name is Benjaman (spelled with m-a-n). He thinks he's from Indiana and that he went to Catholic school. He thinks he lived in Denver or visited Denver. Other than that, he has no clue. I cannot imagine not remembering things. I can remember minutia to a fault. I remember things that others in my family are amazed that I remember. There are some things I'd like to forget, but I haven't figured out how to selectively forget things. My heart goes out to him. He said he's afraid people want him to be someone important and he's going to end up just being some average Joe. How sad.
Then Oprah. Today was celebrating feminists. She had Maria Shriver, Gloria Steinem, and Billy Jean King on. And I was appalled. Everything I am as a Christian woman, these women despise. A keeper at home, a respecter of LIFE from conception, a submissive wife. They said they were in favor of women having choices, but their actions and comments said otherwise. They were all for women having rebellious choices; choices that fell in line with their personal agendas. The equal pay for equal work is a valid issue, because before I was married, I was in the work place. But my feelings about that are this: I was hired at a wage I knew beforehand. I agreed to that wage. I worked for that wage. Why should it matter to me what other people were paid? We have been so programmed to demand what is fair. I feel it's like the servants who were hired for different wages in the New Testament. My responsibility was to work for the wage offered. Maybe I'm ok with that because I feel I received fair wages. I don't know. All I know is that today I didn't watch much of Oprah. Rachel Ray had some interesting recipes that I'd probably enjoy and my family would probably gag at the sight or thought of. Ah, the Food Network! 95% free from worldly influences. 5% boozers. LOL.
Today's Dr. Phil was mesmerizing. There was a man on the show who has complete amnesia; he was found in Atlanta, GA outside a restaurant door, naked, and beaten early one morning like four years ago. He thinks his name is Benjaman (spelled with m-a-n). He thinks he's from Indiana and that he went to Catholic school. He thinks he lived in Denver or visited Denver. Other than that, he has no clue. I cannot imagine not remembering things. I can remember minutia to a fault. I remember things that others in my family are amazed that I remember. There are some things I'd like to forget, but I haven't figured out how to selectively forget things. My heart goes out to him. He said he's afraid people want him to be someone important and he's going to end up just being some average Joe. How sad.
Then Oprah. Today was celebrating feminists. She had Maria Shriver, Gloria Steinem, and Billy Jean King on. And I was appalled. Everything I am as a Christian woman, these women despise. A keeper at home, a respecter of LIFE from conception, a submissive wife. They said they were in favor of women having choices, but their actions and comments said otherwise. They were all for women having rebellious choices; choices that fell in line with their personal agendas. The equal pay for equal work is a valid issue, because before I was married, I was in the work place. But my feelings about that are this: I was hired at a wage I knew beforehand. I agreed to that wage. I worked for that wage. Why should it matter to me what other people were paid? We have been so programmed to demand what is fair. I feel it's like the servants who were hired for different wages in the New Testament. My responsibility was to work for the wage offered. Maybe I'm ok with that because I feel I received fair wages. I don't know. All I know is that today I didn't watch much of Oprah. Rachel Ray had some interesting recipes that I'd probably enjoy and my family would probably gag at the sight or thought of. Ah, the Food Network! 95% free from worldly influences. 5% boozers. LOL.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
2nd Tooth!
Today at lunch, Little Boy lost his second tooth. It literally just fell out of his mouth. Hee hee. So now the Tooth Fairy has to come up with another dollar and another little toy. Yea. Where is that chick?
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Such a Scary Face!
Can you imagine meeting this in a dark alley? YIKES!
He cracked himself up when he saw the picture.
(Be sure you enlarge the photo so you can see that his one little remaining tooth is in the middle now!)
Monday, October 13, 2008
OH, I forgot!
Last night we were coming home from church. Little Boy was talking about riding his bike to church. Daddy thought he might make it until he got to the bridge. Little Boy said he could make it over the bridge. He said, "I'll just tell myself, 'I can make it, I can make it, I can make it; I believe in myself!'"
We were laughing and asked where he heard THAT. He said he heard it on Clifford. I'm glad he's picking up good things. The other day we had to talk to him about saying, "Oh my G-d!" I guess we've been watching Extreme Makeover Home Edition a lot lately. The episode last night was of a family from Richland Center, WI. They said a lot of, "Holy Cow!" Made me homesick. LOL.
We were laughing and asked where he heard THAT. He said he heard it on Clifford. I'm glad he's picking up good things. The other day we had to talk to him about saying, "Oh my G-d!" I guess we've been watching Extreme Makeover Home Edition a lot lately. The episode last night was of a family from Richland Center, WI. They said a lot of, "Holy Cow!" Made me homesick. LOL.
Such a Comforting Thought
I was watching Fox & Friends this morning. That's what I do in the morning while I try to wake up. Here is a link to a clip. I'm referring to the first part of the clip, but the rest of the clip is interesting, too.
Doesn't that just make you wanna ... I don't even know what it makes me wanna do beside make sure I vote.
Doesn't that just make you wanna ... I don't even know what it makes me wanna do beside make sure I vote.
Little Boy is one tooth lighter!
Last night Daddy was brushing Little Boy's teeth (LB brushes, then a parent brushes). Those little teeth in the front were so wobbly. So Daddy asked him if LB couldn't get that one out. Little Boy started playing with it and it fell out. We were all surprised, and then I started grossing out. There was blood! I could feel myself getting woozy - I know, I'm such a baby. I got him some salt water to swish. He spit it out in the sink and said, "Salt water is DIS GUST ING!"
The tooth fairy left him a whole dollar and a new plastic lion! Wow! I remember getting nickles and quarters.
I'll post a pic of him with his new gap in a little while, so check back.
The tooth fairy left him a whole dollar and a new plastic lion! Wow! I remember getting nickles and quarters.
I'll post a pic of him with his new gap in a little while, so check back.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Out of the mouth of babes...
Little Boy has been fighting off a bug the last couple days. He's congested and was running a fever. He woke up this morning about 4 am, and apparently, I told him to go back to bed. (I have no recollection.) He got up again at 6 am, and Mike gave him some cold medicine and put him back in bed. Baby woke up about 8:15 am and started barking. I got her up, and we sat together on the couch watching Fox and Friends for a while. Little Boy finally came out at 9:50! His little hair was all "sticky-uppy" and his eyes were bright. He told me he got a really good sleep and that he didn't have a fever anymore. Clearly, he still had a stuffy nose. I told him to look at the clock. He said, "Wow! I slept like Grandma and Granddad!" I stifled the belly laugh I felt coming on, and told him he sure did! How I would love to sleep in!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Quit Barking!
From the time she wakes up until the time she goes to sleep, I have to tell Baby, "Quit barking!" I don't know what type of dog she thinks she is, but she barks like a little dog - quite shrill. She told me she's a red dog. Could be the result of watching Clifford. The barking gets annoying, but nothing beats getting licked by a slobbery 3 year old! Blech.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
What would you have done?
I read Foxnews.com all the time. One of the stories on there recently freaked me out.
A girl in Australia was sleeping. She woke up because she thought she felt a spider crawl across her. She flipped on the light only to find a snake wrapped around her neck and it bit her on the inside of her upper arm. She was screaming, and her family didn't believe her and told her to go back to bed.
So finally the girl's brother-in-law killed the snake. The mother, a nurse, knew the doctor would need to identifiy the snake, and had it put in the trunk. When she talked to the ER doctor, she gave him her keys and told him to go get it himself; she wasn't going to touch it. The snake was identified and it wasn't venomous.
But what would you do if you woke up to this on your pillow? I think I would have died, right then and there.
A girl in Australia was sleeping. She woke up because she thought she felt a spider crawl across her. She flipped on the light only to find a snake wrapped around her neck and it bit her on the inside of her upper arm. She was screaming, and her family didn't believe her and told her to go back to bed.
So finally the girl's brother-in-law killed the snake. The mother, a nurse, knew the doctor would need to identifiy the snake, and had it put in the trunk. When she talked to the ER doctor, she gave him her keys and told him to go get it himself; she wasn't going to touch it. The snake was identified and it wasn't venomous.
But what would you do if you woke up to this on your pillow? I think I would have died, right then and there.
Another exciting thing!
I forgot the exciting thing that happened last night. Baby said she wanted to sit on the toilet. I put her up there and she playing with toys. I was getting tired of her messing around when she could have been getting ready for bed. And then she peed! She surprised herself - she looked at me like she was astonished. We were all cheering for her. So this morning we tried again. No luck yet. But we'll keep trying.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Our trip to the dentist
So, today I had to take Little Boy to the pediatric dentist. He has 4 cavities that needed fillings. We got there and the assistant worked for at least 15 minutes to get the little bite films into his mouth. He kept panicking - he finally told us he thought she was going to push them too far into his mouth and he didn't want to barf. We got him to calm down and got the x-rays done.
Then the dentist came in, and she told me he had a deep cavity on one side, another large cavity on the other side, and two smaller cavities. She did not want to fill the deep cavity, especially, because the tooth would just end up getting abscessed. So she recommended doing a pulpotomy - basically a root canal. Because he was so difficult getting x-rays, she wants to do this under general anesthesia. The soonest we can get through the insurance red tape and get in is December 4th. He has to get an exam to make sure he's ok for going under. While we were talking, she gave some model teeth to Little Boy to look at. One tooth had a silver crown.
On our way home we were talking. He wanted to know why the dentist didn't fill his cavities. I told him we need to go to another "office", the dentist will have him drink something that will make him a little sleepy, and when he wakes up, his teeth will be all fixed. He seemed fine with that. But when I told him he'd have two teeth that were silver, he got upset. "Someone might think I'm a different kid." I told him that the teeth are so far in the back that no one would even know unless he opened his mouth really wide and tipped his head. And that no one would think he was a different kid. (I don't know why that is important, but it comes up fairly often.)
We also need to watch for infections. I just wish we could get this done earlier.
Then the dentist came in, and she told me he had a deep cavity on one side, another large cavity on the other side, and two smaller cavities. She did not want to fill the deep cavity, especially, because the tooth would just end up getting abscessed. So she recommended doing a pulpotomy - basically a root canal. Because he was so difficult getting x-rays, she wants to do this under general anesthesia. The soonest we can get through the insurance red tape and get in is December 4th. He has to get an exam to make sure he's ok for going under. While we were talking, she gave some model teeth to Little Boy to look at. One tooth had a silver crown.
On our way home we were talking. He wanted to know why the dentist didn't fill his cavities. I told him we need to go to another "office", the dentist will have him drink something that will make him a little sleepy, and when he wakes up, his teeth will be all fixed. He seemed fine with that. But when I told him he'd have two teeth that were silver, he got upset. "Someone might think I'm a different kid." I told him that the teeth are so far in the back that no one would even know unless he opened his mouth really wide and tipped his head. And that no one would think he was a different kid. (I don't know why that is important, but it comes up fairly often.)
We also need to watch for infections. I just wish we could get this done earlier.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Could you pass this test?
Civics (History and Government) Questions for the Redesigned (New) Naturalization Test
The 100 civics (history and government) questions and answers for the redesigned (new) naturalization test are listed below. Applicants who filed the Application for Naturalization, Form N-400, on or after October 1, 2008, should study this list. The civics test is an oral test and the USCIS Officer will ask the applicant up to 10 of the 100 civics questions. An applicant must answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly to pass the civics portion of the naturalization test.
Although USCIS is aware that there may be additional correct answers to the 100
A: Principles of American Democracy
1. What is the supreme law of the land?
▪
2. What does the Constitution do?
▪
3. The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution. What are these words?
▪
4. What is an amendment?
▪
▪ (or)
5. What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution?
▪
6. What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment?*
▪
7. How many amendments does the Constitution have?
▪
8. What did the Declaration of Independence do?
▪
9. What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence?
▪
▪
10. What is freedom of religion?
▪
11. What is the economic system in the United States?*
▪
12. What is the “rule of law”?
▪
B: System of Government
13. Name one branch or part of the government.*
▪
14. What stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful?
▪
15. Who is in charge of the executive branch?
▪
16. Who makes federal laws?
▪
17. What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?*
18. How many U.S. Senators are there?
▪
19. We elect a U.S. Senator for how many years?
▪
20. Who is one of your state’s U.S. Senators now?*
▪
21. The House of Representatives has how many voting members?
▪
22. We elect a U.S. Representative for how many years?
▪
23. Name your U.S. Representative.
▪
24. Who does a U.S. Senator represent?
▪
25. Why do some states have more Representatives than other states?
▪
26. We elect a President for how many years?
▪
27. In what month do we vote for President?*
▪
28. What is the name of the President of the United States now?*
▪
29. What is the name of the Vice President of the United States now?
▪
30. If the President can no longer serve, who becomes President?
▪
31. If both the President and the Vice President can no longer serve, who becomes President?
▪
32. Who is the Commander in Chief of the military?
▪
33. Who signs bills to become laws?
▪
34. Who vetoes bills?
▪
35. What does the President’s Cabinet do?
▪
36. What are two Cabinet-level positions?
▪
▪
37. What does the judicial branch do?
▪
38. What is the highest court in the United States?
▪
39. How many justices are on the Supreme Court?
▪
40. Who is the Chief Justice of the United States now?
▪
41. Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the federal government. What is one power of the federal government?
▪
42. Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the states. What is one power of the states?
▪
43. Who is the Governor of your state now?
▪
44. What is the capital of your state?*
▪
45. What are the two major political parties in the United States?*
▪
46. What is the political party of the President now?
▪
47. What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives now?
▪
C: Rights and Responsibilities
48. There are four amendments to the Constitution about who can vote. Describe one of them.
▪
49. What is one responsibility that is only for United States citizens?*
▪
50. Name one right only for United States citizens.
▪
51. What are two rights of everyone living in the United States?
▪
▪
52. What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance?
▪
53. What is one promise you make when you become a United States citizen?
▪
54. How old do citizens have to be to vote for President?*
▪
55. What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?
▪
▪
56. When is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms?*
▪
57. When must all men register for the Selective Service?
▪
▪
AMERICAN HISTORY
A: Colonial Period and Independence
58. What is one reason colonists came to America?
▪
59. Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived?
▪
▪
60. What group of people was taken to America and sold as slaves?
▪
61. Why did the colonists fight the British?
▪
62. Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
▪
63. When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?
▪
64. There were 13 original states. Name three.
▪
▪
▪
65. What happened at the Constitutional Convention?
▪
66. When was the Constitution written?
▪
67. The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the U.S. Constitution. Name one of the writers.
▪
68. What is one thing Benjamin Franklin is famous for?
▪
69. Who is the “Father of Our Country”?
▪
70. Who was the first President?*
▪
B: 1800s
71. What territory did the United States buy from France in 1803?
▪
72. Name one war fought by the United States in the 1800s.
▪
73. Name the U.S. war between the North and the South.
▪
74. Name one problem that led to the Civil War.
▪
75. What was one important thing that Abraham Lincoln did?*
▪
76. What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?
▪
77. What did Susan B. Anthony do?
▪
C: Recent American History and Other Important Historical Information
78. Name one war fought by the United States in the 1900s.*
▪
79. Who was President during World War I?
▪
80. Who was President during the Great Depression and World War II?
▪
81. Who did the United States fight in World War II?
▪
82. Before he was President, Eisenhower was a general. What war was he in?
▪
83. During the Cold War, what was the main concern of the United States?
▪
84. What movement tried to end racial discrimination?
▪
85. What did Martin Luther King, Jr. do?*
▪
86. What major event happened on September 11, 2001, in the United States?
▪
87. Name one American Indian tribe in the United States.
▪
INTEGRATED CIVICS
A: Geography
88. Name one of the two longest rivers in the United States.
▪
89. What ocean is on the West Coast of the United States?
▪
90. What ocean is on the East Coast of the United States?
▪
91. Name one U.S. territory.
▪
92. Name one state that borders Canada.
▪
93. Name one state that borders Mexico.
▪
94. What is the capital of the United States?*
▪
95. Where is the Statue of Liberty?*
▪
B: Symbols
96. Why does the flag have 13 stripes?
▪
97. Why does the flag have 50 stars?*
▪
98. What is the name of the national anthem?
▪
C: Holidays
99. When do we celebrate Independence Day?*
▪
100. Name two national U.S. holidays.
▪
▪
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Hot Dogs, Popcorn and Ice Cream
Not exactly a well-balanced meal, but it didn't involve me cooking. I took the kids to Bessie's ice cream shop. When we got home at 8:00, I got them into jammies, brushed their teeth and had them into bed by 8:19. Woo-hoo!
Well worth $10!
Well worth $10!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Potato Plan
So I've been thinking more about getting back into more meal planning, and I came across a lady who uses mainly potatoes for her freezer cooking. She said she usually does 60 lbs. of potatoes for her day of cooking! 60 lbs.!
I like her ideas, and think it would be fun to try, but definitely on a smaller scale. We eat a lot of pasta, and I think I'd like to make homemade pasta. I also buy alot of frozen fries and onion rings, but I would love to be able to pull out something more healthy.
Her plan includes really good steps that she has learned by trial and error, and she gives her recipe ideas.
I've been finding that there are many sites for meal planning, but most of them require a paid membership.
I like her ideas, and think it would be fun to try, but definitely on a smaller scale. We eat a lot of pasta, and I think I'd like to make homemade pasta. I also buy alot of frozen fries and onion rings, but I would love to be able to pull out something more healthy.
Her plan includes really good steps that she has learned by trial and error, and she gives her recipe ideas.
I've been finding that there are many sites for meal planning, but most of them require a paid membership.
So Now What?
I went to the ENT today - not my favorite visit, but as I sat in the exam room for 20 minutes waiting for the doctor, I realized I hate going to any doctor's appointment. Having the doctor look up my nose as I recover from a sinus infection just isn't my idea of nice. Poor him!
I was especially nervous to tell him that I had quit taking all my meds early in July. I explained what had happened - I quit taking the Indomethacin for my psoriatic arthritis because I started having chest pains. At the same time, I decided to quit taking ALL my meds to see what would happen.
I told him I didn't feel better, but I didn't feel worse, either. Then when we went to Indiana, the lump in my throat disappeared. After we returned, I was driving with my windows down and the lump came back all at once.
He said between what I told him and the results from my allergy testing, he's sure my swollen larynx is the result of allergies. (Well, duh.) He wants me to go back on my allergy meds - singulair, nasonex and now he wants me to try OTC Zyrtec.
Then I told him about the insurance statement we recieved yesterday saying they are not paying for any of my allergy testing costs - only $1263! The doctor was upset, talked to the billing clerk and the allergy nurse came in. She said they called my insurance company twice to verify that they would cover the testing. BCBS said they would cover it 100%. She said they would call again, resubmit the charges with a different billing code, and see what happens. The billing clerk gave me the dates she called and the name of the lady she spoke to. So, I need to call, too, and see what happens.
I HATE confrontations. I just want to sleep.
I was especially nervous to tell him that I had quit taking all my meds early in July. I explained what had happened - I quit taking the Indomethacin for my psoriatic arthritis because I started having chest pains. At the same time, I decided to quit taking ALL my meds to see what would happen.
I told him I didn't feel better, but I didn't feel worse, either. Then when we went to Indiana, the lump in my throat disappeared. After we returned, I was driving with my windows down and the lump came back all at once.
He said between what I told him and the results from my allergy testing, he's sure my swollen larynx is the result of allergies. (Well, duh.) He wants me to go back on my allergy meds - singulair, nasonex and now he wants me to try OTC Zyrtec.
Then I told him about the insurance statement we recieved yesterday saying they are not paying for any of my allergy testing costs - only $1263! The doctor was upset, talked to the billing clerk and the allergy nurse came in. She said they called my insurance company twice to verify that they would cover the testing. BCBS said they would cover it 100%. She said they would call again, resubmit the charges with a different billing code, and see what happens. The billing clerk gave me the dates she called and the name of the lady she spoke to. So, I need to call, too, and see what happens.
I HATE confrontations. I just want to sleep.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Hugest, 'mongest, biggest tree!
Sitting at the table, eating our dinner, Little Boy picked a seed out of the cucumber in his salad. He wanted to know if he could plant it and grow cucumbers. I explained he'd have to completely dry it out and wait for spring.
Baby started into a schpiel about planting it and growing the "hugest, 'mongest, 'mongest, biggest ever tree!" She was quite excited about the prospect of climbing it way up into the sky to see the giant up there.
My kids are going to climb the cucumber tree into the sky to see the giant. Hope they drop some golden eggs!
Baby started into a schpiel about planting it and growing the "hugest, 'mongest, 'mongest, biggest ever tree!" She was quite excited about the prospect of climbing it way up into the sky to see the giant up there.
My kids are going to climb the cucumber tree into the sky to see the giant. Hope they drop some golden eggs!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
My Sweet Babies
Pumpkin Cake Bars
These are the yummiest pumpkin cake bars I've ever eaten, and they are very simple to make.
Pumpkin Cake Bars
4 eggs, well beaten
2 c. cooked pumpkin (15 oz. can)
1 1/2 c. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1 yellow cake mix
1/2 c. melted butter
Mix eggs, pumpkin, sugar, salt, ginger, cinnamon and cloves. Pour into a 9x13 cake pan. Sprinkle whole cake mix over the top. Drizzle melted butter over the top. Bake at 325 for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Try to not eat them all yourself! LOL.
Pumpkin Cake Bars
4 eggs, well beaten
2 c. cooked pumpkin (15 oz. can)
1 1/2 c. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1 yellow cake mix
1/2 c. melted butter
Mix eggs, pumpkin, sugar, salt, ginger, cinnamon and cloves. Pour into a 9x13 cake pan. Sprinkle whole cake mix over the top. Drizzle melted butter over the top. Bake at 325 for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Try to not eat them all yourself! LOL.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Talk Like A Pirate Day!
Avast, me hearties! Today 'tis the day to talk like a pirate, landlubbers and scurvy dogs alike!
My son's favorite pirate book, upon recommendation of
his like-minded cousin.
Lesshew!
That's Baby's version of "Bless you" following a sneeze. She doesn't understand the use of the word, either. If she sneezes, she'll say, "I 'lesshewed'." If I don't say, "Bless you" when she sneezes, she'll say, "Mommy! 'Lesshew' me!"
Can you tell we've been sick lately?
Can you tell we've been sick lately?
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Preferred Clothing
So today we went to the salon so Baby and I could get our hair cut. Little Boy "got to" come along. Little Boy and I finished up our lessons, and we all rushed to get dressed and out the door - I almost forgot the snacks! Yikes! That would have been a huge mistake! How else do you control two kids who are sitting across the room while you get your hair cut?
We grabbed lunch and got home in time to watch an episode of Maggie and the Ferocious Beast just before nap time. Both kids decided that they wanted to put their jammies back on. They are so much like me it scares me sometimes.
If only I could wear my jammies all day long. Alas, I have found that people tend to come to our house if I do that.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
I've got a Frounder
Baby found a hair clip today that she got for her birthday. She was all excited, but wasn't sure what it was. I looked at it and told her it was Flounder, from the Little Mermaid. She ran around chanting, "I've got a Frounder, I've got a Frounder." DH and I just laughed. It's the little things.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Monday morning trip
Little Boy woke up this morning and crawled into bed with me. I was so tired; I was awake half the night coughing and sneezing. I figured that would be the case so I slept on the couch and told DH to wake me when he got up at 5 and send me to bed. I'm still feeling less than wonderful.
So, Little Boy crawled in with me and did pretty well letting me rest a bit longer. We watched a little Fox and Friends and got Baby out of bed. While I was changing her diaper, he happened to look in the full-length mirror on her door. He got all upset and said he had spots on his face. When I got a chance to look at him, sure enough, he did. Poor little guy. He asked me if they were "dying spots." Such a hypocondriac like his mom. So I made an appt. for him, and we all got ready to go. He flopped down on the bed and sighed. "These spots are making me tired." Children.
The nurse practioner we saw thinks it's roseola, or something similar. That's what Baby had last winter. For whatever reason, roseola is rarely passed to a sibling. What is up with that? It would have been easier if they both had it at the same time. I think they work together to make me worry as much as possible. So he got a dose of Benadryl (psycho meds for him), and they are going down for a nap. I think I'm going to get a nappie, too!
So, Little Boy crawled in with me and did pretty well letting me rest a bit longer. We watched a little Fox and Friends and got Baby out of bed. While I was changing her diaper, he happened to look in the full-length mirror on her door. He got all upset and said he had spots on his face. When I got a chance to look at him, sure enough, he did. Poor little guy. He asked me if they were "dying spots." Such a hypocondriac like his mom. So I made an appt. for him, and we all got ready to go. He flopped down on the bed and sighed. "These spots are making me tired." Children.
The nurse practioner we saw thinks it's roseola, or something similar. That's what Baby had last winter. For whatever reason, roseola is rarely passed to a sibling. What is up with that? It would have been easier if they both had it at the same time. I think they work together to make me worry as much as possible. So he got a dose of Benadryl (psycho meds for him), and they are going down for a nap. I think I'm going to get a nappie, too!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Green Bay Packers
The Packers are doing an unexpectedly awesome job. I didn't expect that Aaron Rodgers would step in and be so effective! Last Monday, I was surprised that the Packers did so well against the Vikings, and today they steamrolled the Lions. Double Whammy, Gina! LOL.
So, the game wasn't televised here so I was reduced to watching the scores and digital plays on ESPN. As the time kept ticking away in the 4th quarter, and the Packers' score kept getting higher, I wish I had been able to watch! Grrr. Little Boy kept asking, "What? What?" as I was getting excited.
Now that the game is over, I'm back to watching the race.
Go Biffle! Go Edwards! Go Kenseth!
So, the game wasn't televised here so I was reduced to watching the scores and digital plays on ESPN. As the time kept ticking away in the 4th quarter, and the Packers' score kept getting higher, I wish I had been able to watch! Grrr. Little Boy kept asking, "What? What?" as I was getting excited.
Now that the game is over, I'm back to watching the race.
Go Biffle! Go Edwards! Go Kenseth!
Unions and Factory Closures
The company DH works for has closed a couple of plants recently, and there are so many issues involved. My heart goes out to the people who have lost their jobs; I have had anxiety that one day we will be in the same situation. I am not sure why this particular plant was chosen to be shut down. And the parent organization has chosen to not sell it. From a business standpoint, there are benefits to not selling it. The new owners would be competition. They may re-open it some time in the future. They may be able to write it off as a loss.
From a community perspective, it is devastating. To lose 400 jobs in any area is hard to comprehend. To lose 400 jobs in a smaller city is just disastrous. The people have to find work somewhere. Even if they can find a job, they will not be able to find work that will replace their lost wages. They may have to relocate, but will have a difficult time selling their homes. The value of their homes will deflate considerably.
Understandably, the workers are doing everything they can to reverse the decision. It is possible that the people who made the final decision did so with only the bottom line in mind and it was an uncomplicated decision to them. It is likely that they were given the objective of reaching a certain financial goal and had to figure out which location to close. I would absolutely hate to be the people who had to make that decision.
I know that situation; I've lived it. When I worked for a folding carton company based out of Chicago as the HR/Accounting Coordinator, I watched our division president languish over the decision of who to keep and who to let go when the plant was downsizing. Eventually it closed completely. He was given a certain number of employees he could keep, and he had to decide who stayed and who went. I saw our president give the owner heck. One day in particular, the owner, LF, called about 20 times in a row trying to get my boss on the phone. The three of us who were expected to answer the phone were about to walk out. LF was so angry, understandably, I guess, that the boss wouldn't talk to him. My boss was furious that LF wouldn't let him do his job. Try being the one who tells the owner that your boss is in his office, but will not pick up the phone to speak to him! Yikes. I do have to say, that our boss was the best boss I have ever worked for - in a Christian or secular job. The owner was in our building in about an hour and a half. That was a loud office day.
So, I've seen the process from the inside. I was one of those salaried people who was expected to lie outright or by omission. The decision was made in January to close the plant, but it wasn't announced until the end of February. There were rumors and fears swirling around and they were coming to me as the HR person for any answers I could give them.
DH is a union member. I see firsthand how the union benefits the workers, especially in the area of pay. However, the union often does not operate with the best interest of the local worker in mind. So many of the decisions seem to ignore the needs of the local plant. And how on earth could a union of an industry support the Dems? The same people who are more concerned about emissions than keeping plants like ours up and running? DH gets so angry that his union dues are going to support the democRATS. The party that got us going down the NAFTA path, and all that that entails.
And with contract negotiations approaching, the thought that the parent company could just close our division rather than be influenced by the union... That is a bit unsettling. Some of the decision-makers in the company have worked in our plant at one point or another. And some of them are horse's rear ends. So that makes things complicated, too. How do you respectfully deal with someone who did their darndest to close your plant - even if it meant fabricating records and numbers? Hopefully, that HRE won't be involved in contract negotiations.
So, while my heart breaks for those people who are out of work, I can see the point of the owners, too. I don't know the details of why that particular plant was chosen to close. I can only breathe a sigh of relief that for the time being, it wasn't ours.
From a community perspective, it is devastating. To lose 400 jobs in any area is hard to comprehend. To lose 400 jobs in a smaller city is just disastrous. The people have to find work somewhere. Even if they can find a job, they will not be able to find work that will replace their lost wages. They may have to relocate, but will have a difficult time selling their homes. The value of their homes will deflate considerably.
Understandably, the workers are doing everything they can to reverse the decision. It is possible that the people who made the final decision did so with only the bottom line in mind and it was an uncomplicated decision to them. It is likely that they were given the objective of reaching a certain financial goal and had to figure out which location to close. I would absolutely hate to be the people who had to make that decision.
I know that situation; I've lived it. When I worked for a folding carton company based out of Chicago as the HR/Accounting Coordinator, I watched our division president languish over the decision of who to keep and who to let go when the plant was downsizing. Eventually it closed completely. He was given a certain number of employees he could keep, and he had to decide who stayed and who went. I saw our president give the owner heck. One day in particular, the owner, LF, called about 20 times in a row trying to get my boss on the phone. The three of us who were expected to answer the phone were about to walk out. LF was so angry, understandably, I guess, that the boss wouldn't talk to him. My boss was furious that LF wouldn't let him do his job. Try being the one who tells the owner that your boss is in his office, but will not pick up the phone to speak to him! Yikes. I do have to say, that our boss was the best boss I have ever worked for - in a Christian or secular job. The owner was in our building in about an hour and a half. That was a loud office day.
So, I've seen the process from the inside. I was one of those salaried people who was expected to lie outright or by omission. The decision was made in January to close the plant, but it wasn't announced until the end of February. There were rumors and fears swirling around and they were coming to me as the HR person for any answers I could give them.
DH is a union member. I see firsthand how the union benefits the workers, especially in the area of pay. However, the union often does not operate with the best interest of the local worker in mind. So many of the decisions seem to ignore the needs of the local plant. And how on earth could a union of an industry support the Dems? The same people who are more concerned about emissions than keeping plants like ours up and running? DH gets so angry that his union dues are going to support the democRATS. The party that got us going down the NAFTA path, and all that that entails.
And with contract negotiations approaching, the thought that the parent company could just close our division rather than be influenced by the union... That is a bit unsettling. Some of the decision-makers in the company have worked in our plant at one point or another. And some of them are horse's rear ends. So that makes things complicated, too. How do you respectfully deal with someone who did their darndest to close your plant - even if it meant fabricating records and numbers? Hopefully, that HRE won't be involved in contract negotiations.
So, while my heart breaks for those people who are out of work, I can see the point of the owners, too. I don't know the details of why that particular plant was chosen to close. I can only breathe a sigh of relief that for the time being, it wasn't ours.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Feeling Cruddy
So, I don't know what "it" is, but I'm feeling pretty rotten. Allergies or cold? Doesn't much matter - my throat is raw, and post nasal drainage is killing me.
Baby and Little Boy both started feeling badly yesterday. Didn't take me long, did it?
So what do you cook when you feel so horrible? Last night we had bacon, pancakes and eggs.
Tonight I thawed a turkey breast, warmed some pasta from the other day, and fixed some brocolli. I even skipped the ice cream afterwards; didn't think it would help my problem.
We didn't even do any schoolwork today. Little Boy asked me about it tonight; if we feel well enough, we'll do it in the morning. Hope I feel better.
Baby and Little Boy both started feeling badly yesterday. Didn't take me long, did it?
So what do you cook when you feel so horrible? Last night we had bacon, pancakes and eggs.
Tonight I thawed a turkey breast, warmed some pasta from the other day, and fixed some brocolli. I even skipped the ice cream afterwards; didn't think it would help my problem.
We didn't even do any schoolwork today. Little Boy asked me about it tonight; if we feel well enough, we'll do it in the morning. Hope I feel better.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Funny Girl
So Baby woke up today with a full-blown head cold. Or allergies. I’m not sure which. Daddy and I got her up, and she was feeling pretty miserable. I gave her some medicine and got her settled on the couch with a pillow and a blanket. She looked like a little zombie. Out of nowhere, she burped. And never blinked. I asked her if she could say, “Excuse me.” She said, “I can’t say it.” A couple minutes later, she saw the yard workers at the neighbors and asked me who a guy was. I said his name is, “Excuse Me,” and asked her if she could say his name. She said it. I don’t think she blinked the whole time we were talking. I told her I tricked her into saying, “Excuse me.” No reaction.
Poor Baby.
Poor Baby.
September 11th
It does not seem possible that it has already been 7 years since the terrorist attacks. I was at school and someone came in between classes and said a plane had hit a building in New York. Then as we were dismissed for lunch, a crowd was gathered in the media room watching TV. It was just so surreal. I remember driving home that day watching the skyline for crashing planes, because no one knew what was going on. Mike was at work and so I went to the lake so I wasn't at home alone.
My sister was worried about me because of the plane that crashed in Shanksville being close to where I live. I was worried about her because I wasn't sure when she was supposed to be flying.
The last couple days, I have remembered that the 11th was coming, but I didn't think of it this morning until I turned on Fox & Friends. I could only watch a couple minutes of it. Little Boy was running around, and I just get too emotional. I remember how helpless I felt at the time; I felt like *I* should be there to help - doing anything. I don't know why I felt that way. I remember hoping there would be more survivors found than there were. And I was so thankful for the brave people on the plane that crashed in Pennsylvania; they were such heroes. I cannot imagine having been on any of those planes. I don't even like to let my mind go there because I have such a vivid imagination and it actually causes me to feel anxiety.
I don't know how old my kids will be before we talk about what happened in 2001. My kids don't understand that there is such evil in our world. I wish they could grow up that way, but that isn't wise on my part. And how do I explain to my children why people would want to kill innocent people in our country when I can't fully comprehend it myself?
My sister was worried about me because of the plane that crashed in Shanksville being close to where I live. I was worried about her because I wasn't sure when she was supposed to be flying.
The last couple days, I have remembered that the 11th was coming, but I didn't think of it this morning until I turned on Fox & Friends. I could only watch a couple minutes of it. Little Boy was running around, and I just get too emotional. I remember how helpless I felt at the time; I felt like *I* should be there to help - doing anything. I don't know why I felt that way. I remember hoping there would be more survivors found than there were. And I was so thankful for the brave people on the plane that crashed in Pennsylvania; they were such heroes. I cannot imagine having been on any of those planes. I don't even like to let my mind go there because I have such a vivid imagination and it actually causes me to feel anxiety.
I don't know how old my kids will be before we talk about what happened in 2001. My kids don't understand that there is such evil in our world. I wish they could grow up that way, but that isn't wise on my part. And how do I explain to my children why people would want to kill innocent people in our country when I can't fully comprehend it myself?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Our Wildlife Neighborhood
Our vacation day at the lake
Throwing rocks
Life at Home
Baby is reading a catalog
Reading can be dangerous
Something reminds me of Witchiepoo
The Cavalry has arrived!
Sunday Morning
You can't wear the helmets