Out my window: 70 and cloudy in the middle of the afternoon. It's supposed to get up to 86 tomorrow. So this is just a random cool July day.
Around the house: Oh my. Scariness. I didn't get as much accomplished last weekend as I had hoped and I have been laying in bed with a virus since Tuesday afternoon. I mean, really, it isn't awful. But it isn't clean. I have fairly high standards for house cleanliness, at least comparatively. Who boy, if you knew me when I was younger, you know I am not a "neat freak". But the more kids I have, the more chaos they create and the more need I feel to keep it under control on a regular basis.
Clothing myself in: Black sweatpants. Black tank top. Black Cardigan. Super cheery.
Kiddos: Honestly, I have hardly seen them, in order to keep them from my germs I miss them.
Bringing me joy: Sweet cards and lettuce garnish by my toast when Issy brought me food. Our counteroffer being accepted!!!! Being in the mountains in possibly (probably?) just a couple of months. The way George talks with his hands when he is trying to explain something.
Thinking about: Tons of things! Since I have been laying in bed the better part of three days, I have had a lot of time to think.
As previously indicated, we found out on Monday that our counteroffer was accepted. The contingency is that they sell their house, so we are hoping that happens sooner rather than later. As long as they are able to sell their house, the potential closing date is September 26th. My last day at Catholic Word is August 8th, and August 9th, we will be leaving the kids with the relatives and heading West to find a place to live.
I am feeling somewhat ambivalent about being done at my job. Well, maybe ambivalent isn't the best word- conflicted is probably better. I am excited to be at home with our children once again. After a loosey-goosey summer, I really need to rein them back in. I am excited to homeschool them. I am terrified to homeschool them because I honestly don't know how George's boisterous behavior is going to affect their studies. I really like working- I like talking to adults and I like bringing in a paycheck. It is a sacrifice to leave that. A necessary one, at this point, but a loss to be sure.
So yeah, in the event that our house actually closes at the end of September, I need to find alternate homeschooling material for the kids. We are currently enrolled in a virtual school in Wisconsin, but obviously, you need to be a resident of Wisconsin to be eligible. I emailed a virtual school in Idaho (in case that is where we land) to see if they serviced the area we are looking to move, since they use the same curriculum that we will be using here. God's hands.
Also, packing. Some purging left to do. A garage sale.
I've also been thinking a lot about knitting. It was one of my favorite things to do when we lived in Idaho. I miss not having the time (or when I have the time, I don't have the energy) to do it. I am really looking forward to going into my old favorite yarn store and dreaming of all the beautiful things I can create.
So yeah, sorry for the brain dump. Thanks for hanging in there :)
Friday, July 25, 2014
Friday, July 11, 2014
Journal: Life!
Out my window: Cloudy and 71. Supposed to rain tomorrow and then be coool the next few days. I can't complain about the lack of obscene heat, it is just weird. If I go outside in the evenings, I often wear a jacket. Sometimes I still feel cold. Yay, Wisconsin!
Around the house: Just a fair amount of cleaning to keep things maintained and tidy. Oh dog fur, my nemesis.
Clothing myself in: Jeans, fuzzy slippers, navy and white stripey tank top with old sweatshirt on top.
Toddler: Very pleasant lately, for the most part. He's been sleeping past six most days (THANK YOU GOD) for the past month? Two? I have almost not wanted to mention it because even though I am not superstitious, I am superstitious about his sleeping habits. Whatever it is, it is magical and I hope it continues forever. He says adorable funny things and I can tell he is on the cusp of being three- just starting to act more like a preschooler than a toddler. Potty training is going well. His only thing is that he often waits until he is up in the morning, but before he comes to his door to have a BM. He is so not ready to night train, so I guess I'll just have to deal with that until I can convince him otherwise.
Kiddos: Since getting the house on the market, we have been making a concerted effort to have lots of concentrated family time- lake, took them to see a movie, just a lot of family fun after the craziness of getting the house ready. Issy is going to Schoenstatt girl's camp this week, which she is reeeeeally excited about. She was packed a week in advance. I am nervous because she's my baby but happy she gets to do this with her friends. I think it'll be great for her.
Bringing me joy: My big boys giggling at bedtime, I love that they love each other. My silly puppy on the kitchen floor when I am making dinner. The adorable, joyful couple I served that had been married 64 years. The enthusiasm that the kids greet us at the door with after work. A tidy house. House dreamin' with the hubby.
Thinking about: Whoa. Big week for us. We showed the house on July 4th and again yesterday to the same family. They are very interested and are going to put in an offer. It could likely go very quickly from there.
I am trying not to get my hopes up even though it is very likely headed in that direction. We really thought it would take a while to sell the house, so we are still trying to decide exaaaactly where we are going. Apparently, narrowing it down to somewhere in the Rocky Mountains isn't enough. It's a blessing to get to choose, but holy wow, it is overwhelming. Pros. Cons. What are needs, what are wants? We want this move to also be about a bigger vision for our family- yes, living in a beautiful place, but simplifying. Being good stewards of what we have, what we want to impress upon our children.
Like I said, Whoa. Prayers for patience, peace and guidance.
Around the house: Just a fair amount of cleaning to keep things maintained and tidy. Oh dog fur, my nemesis.
Clothing myself in: Jeans, fuzzy slippers, navy and white stripey tank top with old sweatshirt on top.
Toddler: Very pleasant lately, for the most part. He's been sleeping past six most days (THANK YOU GOD) for the past month? Two? I have almost not wanted to mention it because even though I am not superstitious, I am superstitious about his sleeping habits. Whatever it is, it is magical and I hope it continues forever. He says adorable funny things and I can tell he is on the cusp of being three- just starting to act more like a preschooler than a toddler. Potty training is going well. His only thing is that he often waits until he is up in the morning, but before he comes to his door to have a BM. He is so not ready to night train, so I guess I'll just have to deal with that until I can convince him otherwise.
Kiddos: Since getting the house on the market, we have been making a concerted effort to have lots of concentrated family time- lake, took them to see a movie, just a lot of family fun after the craziness of getting the house ready. Issy is going to Schoenstatt girl's camp this week, which she is reeeeeally excited about. She was packed a week in advance. I am nervous because she's my baby but happy she gets to do this with her friends. I think it'll be great for her.
Bringing me joy: My big boys giggling at bedtime, I love that they love each other. My silly puppy on the kitchen floor when I am making dinner. The adorable, joyful couple I served that had been married 64 years. The enthusiasm that the kids greet us at the door with after work. A tidy house. House dreamin' with the hubby.
Thinking about: Whoa. Big week for us. We showed the house on July 4th and again yesterday to the same family. They are very interested and are going to put in an offer. It could likely go very quickly from there.
I am trying not to get my hopes up even though it is very likely headed in that direction. We really thought it would take a while to sell the house, so we are still trying to decide exaaaactly where we are going. Apparently, narrowing it down to somewhere in the Rocky Mountains isn't enough. It's a blessing to get to choose, but holy wow, it is overwhelming. Pros. Cons. What are needs, what are wants? We want this move to also be about a bigger vision for our family- yes, living in a beautiful place, but simplifying. Being good stewards of what we have, what we want to impress upon our children.
Like I said, Whoa. Prayers for patience, peace and guidance.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Journal: House on the market
Out my window: 70. Humid. Not too bad.
Around the house: Crazy cleaning, organizing, decluttering, house projecty stuff the last couple of weeks. See the "Thinking About" category for why :)
Clothing myself in: Jeans. Stripy maroon shirt. My mom had a ton of striped shirts- this shirt reminds me of her.
Toddler: Hit a bit of a snag with the babysitter. Being defiant and *ahem* hot-tempered. Lots of biting :-/ I am really looking forward to staying at home with him again, I think it'll help.
Kiddos: They have all been enjoying summer school, which is done in a couple of days. I am glad they have had a chance to do that, keeping them busy with fun, brain-stimulating activities.
In the kitchen: Gah. Don't even ask. My menus are so boring lately. Two jobs, ya'll. We do what is easy.
Crafting:
Thinking about: .... which brings me to this. To preface: before the kid's school closed, but when it looked like it was going to happen, we prayed. We prayed for the school to stay open if it was God's will. But more than that, we prayed that if it closed, that some good could come out of that sad situation. As you know, it closed in April. And then we decided to homeschool the kids again, which meant I was going to have to leave my job at Catholic Word.
Joe has been working remotely from the rest of his team since shortly after he started. So at the end of April, we got the go-ahead from his bosses to have him work remotely... from the mountains.
It has been on our hearts since before we ever left Idaho that we should be in the mountains. It was crazy hard to leave in the first place. And we have talked and dreamed many times about returning. The timing seemed about as ideal as it could be. So we have been working the last two months to put our house on the market. We are (trying fervently to be) realistic in our expectations- it often takes houses in this area a while to sell. But it's a beautiful house and it'll be perfect for another family. I am glad we get the chance to pass it on.
Next up: Mountains. Home.
Picture to share:
Around the house: Crazy cleaning, organizing, decluttering, house projecty stuff the last couple of weeks. See the "Thinking About" category for why :)
Clothing myself in: Jeans. Stripy maroon shirt. My mom had a ton of striped shirts- this shirt reminds me of her.
Toddler: Hit a bit of a snag with the babysitter. Being defiant and *ahem* hot-tempered. Lots of biting :-/ I am really looking forward to staying at home with him again, I think it'll help.
Kiddos: They have all been enjoying summer school, which is done in a couple of days. I am glad they have had a chance to do that, keeping them busy with fun, brain-stimulating activities.
In the kitchen: Gah. Don't even ask. My menus are so boring lately. Two jobs, ya'll. We do what is easy.
Thinking about: .... which brings me to this. To preface: before the kid's school closed, but when it looked like it was going to happen, we prayed. We prayed for the school to stay open if it was God's will. But more than that, we prayed that if it closed, that some good could come out of that sad situation. As you know, it closed in April. And then we decided to homeschool the kids again, which meant I was going to have to leave my job at Catholic Word.
Joe has been working remotely from the rest of his team since shortly after he started. So at the end of April, we got the go-ahead from his bosses to have him work remotely... from the mountains.
It has been on our hearts since before we ever left Idaho that we should be in the mountains. It was crazy hard to leave in the first place. And we have talked and dreamed many times about returning. The timing seemed about as ideal as it could be. So we have been working the last two months to put our house on the market. We are (trying fervently to be) realistic in our expectations- it often takes houses in this area a while to sell. But it's a beautiful house and it'll be perfect for another family. I am glad we get the chance to pass it on.
Next up: Mountains. Home.
Picture to share:
Monday, June 9, 2014
Journal: Anniversary Edition
Out my window: 65 degrees and goooorgeous. It was the perfect day, weather-wise. And with a little bug spray, the mosquitoes weren't terrible in the afternoon. Blue skies, a few puffy clouds, a ton of sun. Lovely.
Around the house: Laundry room is done! We just need to buy some new things to reattach threshold and a new vent cover and bam. Finished! I loooove it. It is so much better than the linoleum. Like a gazillion times better.
Clothing myself in: Blue jeans, blue lace trimmed tank top, lightweight black cardigan.
Toddler: Pretty great, for the most part. He seems to be doing really well with the babysitter other than mostly opting out of a nap. I think maybe he likes not having to compete with other kids his age. He is starting to love books and being read to. It's one of the activities he will actually do for more than 10 seconds. It's wonderful. Potty training is going ok.
Kiddos: Summer school starts tomorrow. They are all excited. I am hoping it is as fun as they hope it's going to be!
In the kitchen: Lots of the regular this week. But for our anniversary today, Joe and I had the house to ourselves and had a delicious meal- grilled German sausage, homemade au gratin potatoes and beer bread. Delish.
Crafting: Sigh. No. I miss it but I just don't have the energy to do it.
Bringing me joy: Quiet time on the back deck with Joe, warm sunshine on my face, staring at the moon, doing laundry in the lovely laundry room, mom's group with friends.
Thinking about: How I am kind of a homebody and it really zaps me to be "busy". For as much as I am an extrovert, I find people pretty tiring, if even in a good way. I don't really like running from one thing to another, but that is the season I am in currently. I suppose it'll slow down eventually, and I can cope okay, but man, I am just Done by the end of the day.
Also, it was a super lovely anniversary. I think we will have to have a relaxed afternoon without kids every anniversary!
Around the house: Laundry room is done! We just need to buy some new things to reattach threshold and a new vent cover and bam. Finished! I loooove it. It is so much better than the linoleum. Like a gazillion times better.
Clothing myself in: Blue jeans, blue lace trimmed tank top, lightweight black cardigan.
Toddler: Pretty great, for the most part. He seems to be doing really well with the babysitter other than mostly opting out of a nap. I think maybe he likes not having to compete with other kids his age. He is starting to love books and being read to. It's one of the activities he will actually do for more than 10 seconds. It's wonderful. Potty training is going ok.
Kiddos: Summer school starts tomorrow. They are all excited. I am hoping it is as fun as they hope it's going to be!
In the kitchen: Lots of the regular this week. But for our anniversary today, Joe and I had the house to ourselves and had a delicious meal- grilled German sausage, homemade au gratin potatoes and beer bread. Delish.
Crafting: Sigh. No. I miss it but I just don't have the energy to do it.
Bringing me joy: Quiet time on the back deck with Joe, warm sunshine on my face, staring at the moon, doing laundry in the lovely laundry room, mom's group with friends.
Thinking about: How I am kind of a homebody and it really zaps me to be "busy". For as much as I am an extrovert, I find people pretty tiring, if even in a good way. I don't really like running from one thing to another, but that is the season I am in currently. I suppose it'll slow down eventually, and I can cope okay, but man, I am just Done by the end of the day.
Also, it was a super lovely anniversary. I think we will have to have a relaxed afternoon without kids every anniversary!
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Journal: Hi, June.
Out my window: 67 and rainy. Our air conditioner is having some sort of issue :P so it's kinda warm in our house. It is supposed to be a bit cooler this week, so hopefully that'll help until we can get it fixed.
Around the house: Wow! So much stuff in the last couple of weeks. I completed the Laundry Room Organization Project. So glad. Hopefully it'll be easier to maintain. While Joe's parents were here, him and his Dad and the boys painted the back deck. This weekend, we worked on ripping up the linoleum and tiling the laundry room now that it is all clean and organized. We are going to grout it tomorrow evening.
Clothing myself in: Purple tank top and cropped pants.
Toddler: Better this week. My friend Heather who was babysitting him over the school year was done on Friday and now we have two high school girls taking turns coming to the house over the summer. Since he is going to be here all the time, potty training is in full swing. He managed to stay dry during his 3 1/2 hour nap (!) this afternoon, so I know he has the capability to potty train. It's just the motivation that could be tricky. But I'm tired of buying diapers, so we are going to give it a go.
Kiddos: Glad to be on summer vacation, I think. They were very helpful getting the house ready before Mom and Dad came. They are going to be starting "summer school" next week, which is a morning program with a couple of fun classes. It runs until the end of June. That'll be nice for them and a little be easier for the babysitters, just having to run after George in the morning.
In the kitchen: Uh, Italian chicken. And crock pot chicken. Taco soup. Man, life is so busy, I am having a hard time remembering my menus lately.
Crafting: Nope. Although, if you look in the last post, you can see a picture of the aforementioned green shrug. It was super easy, once I worked on it. I might do it in a different yarn for more stretch if I do it again. If I ever have the time/motivation to knit again someday.
~~~Continued Monday morning~~~
Bringing me joy: The way that George talks so excitedly about Grammie and Grandpa, watching the kids snuggle on the couch with Grammie and Grandpa, creating order in a chaotic room, working together with Joe to improve our space, having less and less stuff to be attached to, reading books with George, the boys spending hours outside playing with a frog, Sunday afternoon thunderstorm.
Thinking about: It's super cliche, but how fast time goes. How can it possibly be June?
Around the house: Wow! So much stuff in the last couple of weeks. I completed the Laundry Room Organization Project. So glad. Hopefully it'll be easier to maintain. While Joe's parents were here, him and his Dad and the boys painted the back deck. This weekend, we worked on ripping up the linoleum and tiling the laundry room now that it is all clean and organized. We are going to grout it tomorrow evening.
Clothing myself in: Purple tank top and cropped pants.
Toddler: Better this week. My friend Heather who was babysitting him over the school year was done on Friday and now we have two high school girls taking turns coming to the house over the summer. Since he is going to be here all the time, potty training is in full swing. He managed to stay dry during his 3 1/2 hour nap (!) this afternoon, so I know he has the capability to potty train. It's just the motivation that could be tricky. But I'm tired of buying diapers, so we are going to give it a go.
Kiddos: Glad to be on summer vacation, I think. They were very helpful getting the house ready before Mom and Dad came. They are going to be starting "summer school" next week, which is a morning program with a couple of fun classes. It runs until the end of June. That'll be nice for them and a little be easier for the babysitters, just having to run after George in the morning.
In the kitchen: Uh, Italian chicken. And crock pot chicken. Taco soup. Man, life is so busy, I am having a hard time remembering my menus lately.
Crafting: Nope. Although, if you look in the last post, you can see a picture of the aforementioned green shrug. It was super easy, once I worked on it. I might do it in a different yarn for more stretch if I do it again. If I ever have the time/motivation to knit again someday.
~~~Continued Monday morning~~~
Bringing me joy: The way that George talks so excitedly about Grammie and Grandpa, watching the kids snuggle on the couch with Grammie and Grandpa, creating order in a chaotic room, working together with Joe to improve our space, having less and less stuff to be attached to, reading books with George, the boys spending hours outside playing with a frog, Sunday afternoon thunderstorm.
Thinking about: It's super cliche, but how fast time goes. How can it possibly be June?
Monday, May 19, 2014
Journal: Never a dull moment
Out my window: 54 and rainy. It's supposed to be beautiful the rest of the week.
Clothing myself in: Purple shirt, black cardigan. Exercise pants and slippers. Only the bottom part of my outfit got changed after work. I look a little silly but I don't really mind.
Around the house: I started working on decluttering and organizing the laundry room on Saturday. It is a huge project, because often things get dumped there when they don't have/don't make it to the proper spot. And our arts and crafts things are in the cabinets there. For some reason, despite my reminders, the kids often don't put the crafty stuff back where it belongs. I bought some plastic tubs, so I am hoping that will help the organization. Or at least contain the mess :P
I also decluttered and cleaned out the coat closet in our front entryway. Put away all the winter stuff. The laundry room still needs to be finished but I finished the coat closet and it looks magnificent. Slowly but surely.
Joe painted the front porch with this textured paint stuff that we bought last fall. We were going to use it on the back deck until we realized how much more we would have to buy. But it really spruced up the front porch, so I am glad we were able to put it to good use.
Toddler: Beautiful. Overwhelming. Charming. He has been sleeping betterish for him.
Kiddos: Went on a school field trip last Friday and had a lot of fun. Isaac got to sleepover with his buddy on Friday. When I asked him what they did he said they chopped up a lot of trees with hatchets, lol. Tomorrow is the last full day of school and half day on Wednesday. Then they will be done at the Academy, which is sad. But other doors are opening for us that wouldn't have otherwise, so we trust that God can make good come out of this sad situation.
In the kitchen: Hmmmm, I can't remember. I even discussed the menu with Joe the other night and I still can't remember. He is going to be out of town from tomorrow- Friday, so we planned easy stuff.
Crafting:
Thinking about: How full our summer is and it hasn't even started. One day at a time.
Pictures to share:
Clothing myself in: Purple shirt, black cardigan. Exercise pants and slippers. Only the bottom part of my outfit got changed after work. I look a little silly but I don't really mind.
Around the house: I started working on decluttering and organizing the laundry room on Saturday. It is a huge project, because often things get dumped there when they don't have/don't make it to the proper spot. And our arts and crafts things are in the cabinets there. For some reason, despite my reminders, the kids often don't put the crafty stuff back where it belongs. I bought some plastic tubs, so I am hoping that will help the organization. Or at least contain the mess :P
I also decluttered and cleaned out the coat closet in our front entryway. Put away all the winter stuff. The laundry room still needs to be finished but I finished the coat closet and it looks magnificent. Slowly but surely.
Joe painted the front porch with this textured paint stuff that we bought last fall. We were going to use it on the back deck until we realized how much more we would have to buy. But it really spruced up the front porch, so I am glad we were able to put it to good use.
Toddler: Beautiful. Overwhelming. Charming. He has been sleeping betterish for him.
Kiddos: Went on a school field trip last Friday and had a lot of fun. Isaac got to sleepover with his buddy on Friday. When I asked him what they did he said they chopped up a lot of trees with hatchets, lol. Tomorrow is the last full day of school and half day on Wednesday. Then they will be done at the Academy, which is sad. But other doors are opening for us that wouldn't have otherwise, so we trust that God can make good come out of this sad situation.
In the kitchen: Hmmmm, I can't remember. I even discussed the menu with Joe the other night and I still can't remember. He is going to be out of town from tomorrow- Friday, so we planned easy stuff.
Thinking about: How full our summer is and it hasn't even started. One day at a time.
Pictures to share:
Cousins!
My sweet Erika.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Journal: Time is flying by!
Out my window: Dark and upper forties. It still is fairly cool, though we have had a couple 70+ degree days.
Clothing myself in: Purple tank top and black cardigan sweater. Skinny jeans.
Around the house: Whew. Reorganized and purged our closest, put a twin bed in George's room. Decluttered the countertop in the laundry room, which might as well have been climbing Mount Everest. I still need to purge and reorganize the art supplies in the laundry room cabinets. That's next. Still need to switch out George's summer clothes- it has been cool enough that he wears jeans most days anyways.
Toddler: Sigh. We had had a really good run with better sleep before we went to Kansas but it's been touch and go since we got back. His bad BMs are back, too which is leaving me to analyze his diet again. Gah, why isn't parenting easy? He is completely exasperating and strong-willed in one breath and so charming the next.
Kiddos: 6 days of school left. They had their last school program on Friday and it was beautiful and sad. I am so glad that we were able to be part of that community for a couple of years, it's been so good for them.
After much deliberation, it was decided that I would stay home and homeschool this fall. I am finishing up at my work and training my replacement over the summer. I am very sad to be leaving my work- it's been such a good experience. But I kept trying to wrap my head around sending the kids to a school I didn't feel comfortable but I felt no peace. But the decision to homeschool them immediately gave my the peace I had been praying for, even though it requires some sacrifices.
We are doing a public charter school that primarily uses Calvert curriculum Since this is our first time doing a virtual charter school, I am interested in seeing how it works for us. Isaac is excited about homeschooling. Issy and Liam are more neutral about it- they say they are happy, but they will miss seeing their friends everyday. It will take some adjustment for everyone again, for sure.
In the kitchen: I don't even remember. Joe made the menu and did the grocery shopping.
Crafting: Hahaha. No.
Bringing me joy: Blue sky. Fire pit nights with Joe, George's reaction to seeing his big Lightening McQueen bed and sheets, the way George calls thunder "bunder". The way he says "He's a good worker" with deep admiration when someone is working hard, seeing Isabelle growing into such a complex young lady, listening to Jars of Clay really loud on the way to work.
Thinking about: Life has been crazy lately. Mostly good crazy. I got a job waitressing since I'll be leaving Catholic Word soon. I work three evenings a week. It is exhausting but worth it. Hoping the craziness and the sacrifices now are going to pay off.
Pictures to share: Some Marney family fun in Kansas
Clothing myself in: Purple tank top and black cardigan sweater. Skinny jeans.
Around the house: Whew. Reorganized and purged our closest, put a twin bed in George's room. Decluttered the countertop in the laundry room, which might as well have been climbing Mount Everest. I still need to purge and reorganize the art supplies in the laundry room cabinets. That's next. Still need to switch out George's summer clothes- it has been cool enough that he wears jeans most days anyways.
Toddler: Sigh. We had had a really good run with better sleep before we went to Kansas but it's been touch and go since we got back. His bad BMs are back, too which is leaving me to analyze his diet again. Gah, why isn't parenting easy? He is completely exasperating and strong-willed in one breath and so charming the next.
Kiddos: 6 days of school left. They had their last school program on Friday and it was beautiful and sad. I am so glad that we were able to be part of that community for a couple of years, it's been so good for them.
After much deliberation, it was decided that I would stay home and homeschool this fall. I am finishing up at my work and training my replacement over the summer. I am very sad to be leaving my work- it's been such a good experience. But I kept trying to wrap my head around sending the kids to a school I didn't feel comfortable but I felt no peace. But the decision to homeschool them immediately gave my the peace I had been praying for, even though it requires some sacrifices.
We are doing a public charter school that primarily uses Calvert curriculum Since this is our first time doing a virtual charter school, I am interested in seeing how it works for us. Isaac is excited about homeschooling. Issy and Liam are more neutral about it- they say they are happy, but they will miss seeing their friends everyday. It will take some adjustment for everyone again, for sure.
In the kitchen: I don't even remember. Joe made the menu and did the grocery shopping.
Crafting: Hahaha. No.
Bringing me joy: Blue sky. Fire pit nights with Joe, George's reaction to seeing his big Lightening McQueen bed and sheets, the way George calls thunder "bunder". The way he says "He's a good worker" with deep admiration when someone is working hard, seeing Isabelle growing into such a complex young lady, listening to Jars of Clay really loud on the way to work.
Thinking about: Life has been crazy lately. Mostly good crazy. I got a job waitressing since I'll be leaving Catholic Word soon. I work three evenings a week. It is exhausting but worth it. Hoping the craziness and the sacrifices now are going to pay off.
Pictures to share: Some Marney family fun in Kansas
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Journal: Easter
Out my window: Sunny, low fifties. Felt like Spring today.
Around the house: Trying to recover the house from the surprise Easter trip to Kansas. I managed to bring alllll of the things back inside the house when we got home Monday evening, but didn't get it all put away right away. Today it was super beautiful outside, so we worked on several projects out there- finished building up the front rock bed, picked up all the trash that got strewn about the yard during the winter, picked up the gazillion pinecones that our trees had dropped. We were very, very productive.
Tomorrow is supposed to be rainy, so we are going to try to work on the inside.
Clothing myself in: work clothes. Jeans, my old Merrill hiking shoes, red hoodie.
Toddler: Other than being exceptionally obstinate ever since he woke up this morning, he's been pretty great. He was fairly good on our car trip down to Kansas, he's been sleeping good for him, he is funny and cute. He was singing "Let it Go" from Frozen in the car the other morning. He will let a person swing him on the swing for as long as they are willing. He's got the best grin.
The kiddos: Loved seeing our friends and family in Kansas. Everyone got to see their godparents except Liam, because they were sick :( They have been very helpful around the house and worked really hard when we were working outside today. We also gave the boys all buzz cuts since it is about to be tick season here :P They look cute though. School is wrapping up for the olders. Lots of change on the horizon for them.
In the kitchen: All boring things. So boring I can't even remember and I made the menu yesterday. Chef salad, I remember that. Always a hit.
Crafting: The shrug that I started last Spring is complete. Very cute.
Bringing me joy: The look on Mom's face when we surprised her for Easter. Having highballs with my sisters/ brothers-in-law. Lovely relaxed brunch with a forever friend while our kids played mostly nicely together. Big dreams. Sitting under the cherry tree with the sun on my face while I sip coffee. Overwhelming gratitude at the kindness and bigheartedness of my kids.
Around the house: Trying to recover the house from the surprise Easter trip to Kansas. I managed to bring alllll of the things back inside the house when we got home Monday evening, but didn't get it all put away right away. Today it was super beautiful outside, so we worked on several projects out there- finished building up the front rock bed, picked up all the trash that got strewn about the yard during the winter, picked up the gazillion pinecones that our trees had dropped. We were very, very productive.
Tomorrow is supposed to be rainy, so we are going to try to work on the inside.
Clothing myself in: work clothes. Jeans, my old Merrill hiking shoes, red hoodie.
Toddler: Other than being exceptionally obstinate ever since he woke up this morning, he's been pretty great. He was fairly good on our car trip down to Kansas, he's been sleeping good for him, he is funny and cute. He was singing "Let it Go" from Frozen in the car the other morning. He will let a person swing him on the swing for as long as they are willing. He's got the best grin.
The kiddos: Loved seeing our friends and family in Kansas. Everyone got to see their godparents except Liam, because they were sick :( They have been very helpful around the house and worked really hard when we were working outside today. We also gave the boys all buzz cuts since it is about to be tick season here :P They look cute though. School is wrapping up for the olders. Lots of change on the horizon for them.
In the kitchen: All boring things. So boring I can't even remember and I made the menu yesterday. Chef salad, I remember that. Always a hit.
Crafting: The shrug that I started last Spring is complete. Very cute.
Bringing me joy: The look on Mom's face when we surprised her for Easter. Having highballs with my sisters/ brothers-in-law. Lovely relaxed brunch with a forever friend while our kids played mostly nicely together. Big dreams. Sitting under the cherry tree with the sun on my face while I sip coffee. Overwhelming gratitude at the kindness and bigheartedness of my kids.
Monday, April 14, 2014
Journal: Ah, April. How you tease me.
Out my window: Dark. A couple (three?) inches of fluffy snow. (I measured after it got light outside- a little over four inches :P Which is decidedly more than the trace to two they predicted.) It had been in the 50s and 60s and gorgeous for the last week, so I won't complain. All of the snow had melted. This'll melt soon, I hope.
Around the house: It was rainy this weekend, so we worked on some Spring Cleaning inside. Purged Liam's room, brought the queen sized bed from Isaac's room in the basement and Isaac and Liam are sharing the large upstairs bedroom now. Purged Delle's room and rearranged her furniture. Purged Issy's room and moved her into Isaac's downstairs bedroom. Made her old downstairs bedroom into a big kid's toy room with Legos. And my sewing stuff is going to go in there so my machine will be more easily accessible.
I also did a ton of laundry and switched the girl's winter clothes for summer clothes. Blessedly, having lived in this climate for a while, I know to leave out several pairs of jeans and sweatshirts for days like this. All in all, we had a very productive weekend.
Toddler: Tiring. He was pretty good this weekend (whoa, he must've sensed me typing about him- he juuuust woke up.) He's been fairly tricky about doing simple things, particularly getting dressed. And he's a big dude, so him flopping around and being generally uncooperative while I am trying to dress him is a bit of a challenge. But he's been sleeping fairly well lately, thank goodness. And he's been loving all the outside time. Looooving it.
Kiddos: The kid's school closed. The kid's were all very disappointed/ sad. I am feeling pretty ungreat about our options next year :( Please keep up prayers- I just want to feel peaceful about whatever decision we make.
In the kitchen: Easy stuff. Spaghetti, turkey and rice casserole.
Crafting: I gave my friend the blanket I sewed for her little boy this weekend. It isn't much, but I love the fabric.
Bringing me joy: Warm pine breezes, the smell of sun-dried blankets, the way Adelle would squeal in delight at every new hand-me-down outfit she would put on. Quick naptime errands with just Joe, the crackle of the a fire in the firepit on a with thunder in the distance, getting ready for Easter.
Thinking about: How good decluttering felt this weekend. It is always good to be less attached to Stuff. My personal Stuff struggle is papers. Kid's papers, old bills, old cards, filled up workbooks. There are
Less stuff. It's a good thing.
Pictures to share:
Non-boot shoes!
Reading on Saturday morning.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Journal: It's "Spring"
Out my window: Cold- in the low 20s. Ah, Wisconsin Spring. I've only been here two years but Spring is hard-fought up North here. In Kansas- it was like BOOM! Spring! Green grass, warmer weather, flowers. Everything is a lot sloooower up here. The melting takes a while. So even when it is 40 (or even the 50 degree day we had) there is melting, and then often a little more cold, maybe some more snow. It is probably a lesson in patience for my impatient heart. Looks like it is supposed to warm up toward the end of the week though. That would be lovely.
Clothing myself in: Purple turtleneck, grey short-sleeved sweater. Jeans, the ankle boots Joe bought me for Christmas.
The toddler: It's often two steps forward, a step back with him. The potty training is still going pretty excellently here. Not one accident this weekend. I suppose when he is ready, he will do it other places. Everything just has to be his idea.
The kiddos: Issy is growing, growing. Her birthday was lovely- we had bierocks and cake the day before her birthday and surprised her with her gift- dinner and a show with me and Joe! I think she really loved it.
Isaac is sick :-/ Fever, sore throat. Blessedly, it wasn't strep. Sounds like several other kids at school are getting it, too :( His fever this evening was lower than it had been, so hopefully he is on the mend.
I brought home one of the new books from work for Liam to give me his opinion on. He read it in an evening and then asked if there were more to borrow. I told him yes, I had many, many books for him to read and give his opinion on. He seemed pretty excited about the prospect. I brought home two more for him this weekend. I might have started something.
It is indeed looking bleak for the school. I am trying not to feel discouraged. Looking into the public school, which is literally in our backyard, right beyond the tree line. I don't know. Adelle will be five in June, which makes her Kindergarten age. But it's all day, which has always seemed like a bit much for a five-year-old. I don't often ask for super specific things in my prayers, but some guidance in this decision would be nice.
In the kitchen: Chef's salad with all the fixins, meatloaf, biscuits and gravy. We had a fish chowder on Friday and it was deeeelish. Kids even loved it. Highly recommend.
Crafting: YES! I mean, it wasn't much but one of my friends from work had a baby last week, so I made the baby a receiving blanket. The fabric is adorable, if I do say so. Pictures after I give it to his Mama.
Bringing me joy: the unique personalities of my friends and how much I enjoy sharing an evening with them, standing, however briefly, in the sunshine on the back deck with Joe while the dogs romped in the yard, the promise of warmer days to come, tucking my sweet Adelle into bed with her covers over her head, Issy's hugs.
Thinking about: In the last six months (oh, it probably goes further back than that...) how God is working in my life to make me a less judgmental, more love and accepting mother and person. I might expand more on that some other time. I am such a work in progress. It is painful to times to be led places I don't want to go, but it always works out.
Clothing myself in: Purple turtleneck, grey short-sleeved sweater. Jeans, the ankle boots Joe bought me for Christmas.
The toddler: It's often two steps forward, a step back with him. The potty training is still going pretty excellently here. Not one accident this weekend. I suppose when he is ready, he will do it other places. Everything just has to be his idea.
The kiddos: Issy is growing, growing. Her birthday was lovely- we had bierocks and cake the day before her birthday and surprised her with her gift- dinner and a show with me and Joe! I think she really loved it.
Isaac is sick :-/ Fever, sore throat. Blessedly, it wasn't strep. Sounds like several other kids at school are getting it, too :( His fever this evening was lower than it had been, so hopefully he is on the mend.
I brought home one of the new books from work for Liam to give me his opinion on. He read it in an evening and then asked if there were more to borrow. I told him yes, I had many, many books for him to read and give his opinion on. He seemed pretty excited about the prospect. I brought home two more for him this weekend. I might have started something.
It is indeed looking bleak for the school. I am trying not to feel discouraged. Looking into the public school, which is literally in our backyard, right beyond the tree line. I don't know. Adelle will be five in June, which makes her Kindergarten age. But it's all day, which has always seemed like a bit much for a five-year-old. I don't often ask for super specific things in my prayers, but some guidance in this decision would be nice.
In the kitchen: Chef's salad with all the fixins, meatloaf, biscuits and gravy. We had a fish chowder on Friday and it was deeeelish. Kids even loved it. Highly recommend.
Crafting: YES! I mean, it wasn't much but one of my friends from work had a baby last week, so I made the baby a receiving blanket. The fabric is adorable, if I do say so. Pictures after I give it to his Mama.
Bringing me joy: the unique personalities of my friends and how much I enjoy sharing an evening with them, standing, however briefly, in the sunshine on the back deck with Joe while the dogs romped in the yard, the promise of warmer days to come, tucking my sweet Adelle into bed with her covers over her head, Issy's hugs.
Thinking about: In the last six months (oh, it probably goes further back than that...) how God is working in my life to make me a less judgmental, more love and accepting mother and person. I might expand more on that some other time. I am such a work in progress. It is painful to times to be led places I don't want to go, but it always works out.
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Marney Update: March Edition
Hi friends. I know it's been a while. You all know why. I am going to make this a "Journal" type post, but I am not going to be a slave to that format, cause there is a lot of ground to cover.
Out my window: Hints of Spring. Edges of yard underneath piles of melting snow. Puddles. Oh, the puddles. My driveway is a mess. It was sixty degrees the other day. 60 DEGREES, PEOPLE! I am not exaggerating when I tell you that we haven't seen 60 degrees in at least 4? months. I went outside. Without a coat. It was delightful and I look forward to more of that.
Clothing myself in: You don't even want to know. I was going to bleach school shirts when I got home and I always manage to get droplets of bleach on myself so I put on dumpy clothes after work. Then I never ended up taking care of the school shirts. Or changing out of the dumpy clothes....
The toddler: Yep, about a week and a half ago, he decided to potty train. So he's been going for it... at home. He doesn't want to have anything to do with it at his babysitter's house. It's a bit of a conundrum but I suppose it'll work itself out. He's been doing pretty great at home with it, so we will see. Other than that, he is funny, and I love to talk with him.
The kiddos: My IssyB is going to be 11 in just 4 days. 11! She is just such a lovely person. Really. I couldn't have imagined when she was a teeny-tiny baby what a fantastic person she would blossom into. Kind and loving. Beautiful. On the inside and out. I don't know what I did to get to be the mother of such a wonderful person, but I am really really glad.
My sons are wonderful, too :) Isaac has super duper buckled down and is working really hard on his grades. They weren't bad, but he was being maybe a bit sloppy? I love to see his pride in his work when he knows he has worked hard and it's paid off. My Liam is a little knowledge sponge. He. Reads. Everything. Sometimes to an exasperating degree (like standing there reading a book when he's supposed to be getting dressed for school). But I love that he loves learning. What a cool kid.
My Delle is sweet to the core. I love how she adores Issy. It's wonderful.
In the kitchen: Mostly simple meals since I am pretty done by the time I get home from work- spaghetti, bean/ cheese/rice squares. Joe was going to fry some catfish and make some fish chowder on Fridays. And Issy requested bierocks for her birthday. Yum.
Crafting: Nah. I would really like to make time for it again at some point. I miss it. I have a bunch of mending I need to do though :P
Bringing me joy: The conversations I have with George when I am nursing him before bed at night (yes, he still nurses :) the peace on the 6 minute drive to work after I drop the kids off, listening to good music really loud, the way George joyfully says, "MOMMY! You came back!!" when I pick him up, playing the "Ask Any Question" game with Liam and Isaac, sunshine on my face and skin, the way Adelle skips instead of walks, dreaming about the future with Joe. There is a lot to be joyful about.
Thinking about: Oh, man. So much stuff. This is where I might go off the rails a bit on this whole journal thing and it might become more of a "brain dump" if you will.
I just really like working. It's been good for my personal mental health, I think. I love interacting with adults every day. It helps me to better appreciate some of the things that Joe finds challenging. There is a lot of inner conflict about being away from my small ones. The conflict mostly comes from being grateful for a break. There is a fair amount of inner conflict about things not being "the way things used to be". I feel certain that this is what I am supposed to be doing at this point. But no less guilty about not being there for Adelle and George in the same 24/7, bodily, way that I was for my older three.
I think a lot about what might be next for our family. I thought this would be our "forever home" because that is what you do- find a place to stay, settle down. Now I am not entirely sure that is what we, as a family, are called to. But God's plan has always been better than my plan, so we will see :)
Pictures to share: Alright, its been a ridiculous amount of time since I have posted pics, so I am going to. They are mostly Joe's pictures (maybe all of them?), so all photographic talent is his.
Out my window: Hints of Spring. Edges of yard underneath piles of melting snow. Puddles. Oh, the puddles. My driveway is a mess. It was sixty degrees the other day. 60 DEGREES, PEOPLE! I am not exaggerating when I tell you that we haven't seen 60 degrees in at least 4? months. I went outside. Without a coat. It was delightful and I look forward to more of that.
Clothing myself in: You don't even want to know. I was going to bleach school shirts when I got home and I always manage to get droplets of bleach on myself so I put on dumpy clothes after work. Then I never ended up taking care of the school shirts. Or changing out of the dumpy clothes....
The toddler: Yep, about a week and a half ago, he decided to potty train. So he's been going for it... at home. He doesn't want to have anything to do with it at his babysitter's house. It's a bit of a conundrum but I suppose it'll work itself out. He's been doing pretty great at home with it, so we will see. Other than that, he is funny, and I love to talk with him.
The kiddos: My IssyB is going to be 11 in just 4 days. 11! She is just such a lovely person. Really. I couldn't have imagined when she was a teeny-tiny baby what a fantastic person she would blossom into. Kind and loving. Beautiful. On the inside and out. I don't know what I did to get to be the mother of such a wonderful person, but I am really really glad.
My sons are wonderful, too :) Isaac has super duper buckled down and is working really hard on his grades. They weren't bad, but he was being maybe a bit sloppy? I love to see his pride in his work when he knows he has worked hard and it's paid off. My Liam is a little knowledge sponge. He. Reads. Everything. Sometimes to an exasperating degree (like standing there reading a book when he's supposed to be getting dressed for school). But I love that he loves learning. What a cool kid.
My Delle is sweet to the core. I love how she adores Issy. It's wonderful.
In the kitchen: Mostly simple meals since I am pretty done by the time I get home from work- spaghetti, bean/ cheese/rice squares. Joe was going to fry some catfish and make some fish chowder on Fridays. And Issy requested bierocks for her birthday. Yum.
Crafting: Nah. I would really like to make time for it again at some point. I miss it. I have a bunch of mending I need to do though :P
Bringing me joy: The conversations I have with George when I am nursing him before bed at night (yes, he still nurses :) the peace on the 6 minute drive to work after I drop the kids off, listening to good music really loud, the way George joyfully says, "MOMMY! You came back!!" when I pick him up, playing the "Ask Any Question" game with Liam and Isaac, sunshine on my face and skin, the way Adelle skips instead of walks, dreaming about the future with Joe. There is a lot to be joyful about.
Thinking about: Oh, man. So much stuff. This is where I might go off the rails a bit on this whole journal thing and it might become more of a "brain dump" if you will.
I just really like working. It's been good for my personal mental health, I think. I love interacting with adults every day. It helps me to better appreciate some of the things that Joe finds challenging. There is a lot of inner conflict about being away from my small ones. The conflict mostly comes from being grateful for a break. There is a fair amount of inner conflict about things not being "the way things used to be". I feel certain that this is what I am supposed to be doing at this point. But no less guilty about not being there for Adelle and George in the same 24/7, bodily, way that I was for my older three.
I think a lot about what might be next for our family. I thought this would be our "forever home" because that is what you do- find a place to stay, settle down. Now I am not entirely sure that is what we, as a family, are called to. But God's plan has always been better than my plan, so we will see :)
Pictures to share: Alright, its been a ridiculous amount of time since I have posted pics, so I am going to. They are mostly Joe's pictures (maybe all of them?), so all photographic talent is his.
This wasn't posed. Liam really is that sincere in his devotion. He is the my child most likely to become a Priest.
I don't think it is possible for her not to pose.
The path up to the Shrine.
St. Joseph sculpture.
The Shrine.
Real life photo. It truly captured how much George didn't want to participate.
Side altar with a painting of Bl. Miguel Pro.
The dome painted with stars is my favorite. That is saying something, there are many beautiful things to see here.
Changing gears. These were my Valentine's Day flowers.
Before the Father Daughter Dance at church.
The many, many faces of George. He is very animated in his facial expressions. And certainly my son.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Journal: We are alive!
Out my window: Dark and 13 degrees. In for another chilly week. I am not tired of the snow as much as the ridiculous cold. It was sunny today (even though it was in the teens) and we cracked the windows. Just a little bit of fresh air. I think it helped. Looking forward to actual nice weather, I dunno, a couple months from now?
Clothing myself in: Black t-shirt, gray sweatshirt, skinny jeans. These awesomely warm slippers Joe bought me in November. Have I mentioned them here? They are seriously magically warm.
Around the house: Right after my last post, we decided to commit ourselves to the basement project and to finish it with our tax return money. Carpet went in a couple weeks ago. It is awesome having the space. Now we just have a few finishing things here and there that didn't get completed before the carpet. I love it, I am so glad we decided to just do it.
The toddler: Mostly good, actually. Sleeping until quarter till six most days, generally in a good mood, listening marginally better. He has been interested in pottying, so we will see how that progresses. He is extremely articulate and says very funny things. I've decided we should keep him.
The kiddos: January was chicken pox month in the Marney house. Issy, Liam, Adelle, then Isaac and George was last. It wasn't fun, but I am glad it's over.
The big kids grades on their midterms weren't the best. I mean, not awful, but really not the best they could do. I think they might be experiencing some cabin fever? I can't really blame them.
Sadly, it looks like their school will not have the funding to open another year :( I am really very sad about it- it was a perfect fit for them. Now we will have to make some tough choices about what to do for their schooling next year. Could you please say a prayer that we choose well?
In the kitchen: No idea. I actually need to make a menu and list and go to the store tomorrow. I hate making a menu/list/going to the store. I like having food though. I would like it if someone would just do it for me. Any takers?
Crafting: Nope.
Bringing me joy: Fresh air. 40 degree days. Issy snuggling with me. George kisses. Sunlit trips to the Shrine in LaCrosse. The way the Church smells- like wood and candles.
Picture to share: Someday I will upload more, but here is a pic of a day trip we took to see the Shrine of our Lady of Guadalupe in LaCrosse. This is in a small chapel on the walk up to the Shrine. Beauty.
Clothing myself in: Black t-shirt, gray sweatshirt, skinny jeans. These awesomely warm slippers Joe bought me in November. Have I mentioned them here? They are seriously magically warm.
Around the house: Right after my last post, we decided to commit ourselves to the basement project and to finish it with our tax return money. Carpet went in a couple weeks ago. It is awesome having the space. Now we just have a few finishing things here and there that didn't get completed before the carpet. I love it, I am so glad we decided to just do it.
The toddler: Mostly good, actually. Sleeping until quarter till six most days, generally in a good mood, listening marginally better. He has been interested in pottying, so we will see how that progresses. He is extremely articulate and says very funny things. I've decided we should keep him.
The kiddos: January was chicken pox month in the Marney house. Issy, Liam, Adelle, then Isaac and George was last. It wasn't fun, but I am glad it's over.
The big kids grades on their midterms weren't the best. I mean, not awful, but really not the best they could do. I think they might be experiencing some cabin fever? I can't really blame them.
Sadly, it looks like their school will not have the funding to open another year :( I am really very sad about it- it was a perfect fit for them. Now we will have to make some tough choices about what to do for their schooling next year. Could you please say a prayer that we choose well?
In the kitchen: No idea. I actually need to make a menu and list and go to the store tomorrow. I hate making a menu/list/going to the store. I like having food though. I would like it if someone would just do it for me. Any takers?
Crafting: Nope.
Bringing me joy: Fresh air. 40 degree days. Issy snuggling with me. George kisses. Sunlit trips to the Shrine in LaCrosse. The way the Church smells- like wood and candles.
Picture to share: Someday I will upload more, but here is a pic of a day trip we took to see the Shrine of our Lady of Guadalupe in LaCrosse. This is in a small chapel on the walk up to the Shrine. Beauty.
Saturday, January 4, 2014
Journal: Happy New Years!
Out my window: Clear and a chilly 12 degrees. Though that is great compared to what we have in store the next few days- highs of 1 and -15 on Sunday and Monday, respectively, with horrible wind chills. School is already cancelled for Monday and Joe is working remotely from home so we don't have to get the kids out. Yuck, man.
Clothing myself in: Maurice's skinny jeans, the boots Mom and Dad Marney got me for my birthday and actually, a cute flannel shirt Mom and Dad Marney got me for Christmas. This outfit was almost entirely from Mom and Dad Marney- except a I threw Joe's robe over it cause I was cold :)
Around the house: We made a concerted effort on basement clean-up today since our kitchen project is nearing a close and the basement is next. Well, kind of next. We might do a quick detour into transitioning George into Liam's room and making G's room an office before we buckle down on the basement. But it is nice to have the basement in order. Whenever it is all picked up and tidy, I can see the potential for when it is completed. It is going to be such great space.
The toddler: I have been trying (and sometimes succeeding!) at being very positive with him especially when he is being particularly challenging. I have found that when he starts being ornery, if I can engage him positively, I can almost always turn it around. It is hard, though. Sometimes dinner has to be made or we are just trying to get out of the door and those are the times when it is most difficult to deal with his challenging behavior. But I feel like I have this effective tool that I was unaware of before, so it is something. Bit by bit with that little guy.
The kiddos: Yes, chicken pox. Issy definitely had it. She got a pretty mild case, but there was one miserably itchy night. I took her to the Physician's Assistant on Tuesday to confirm it, who told me it was fine if I just called in when the other kids got it and they would make note of it in their charts. Isaac had a fever tonight, which was how Issy's started, but it would be a little early for chicken pox, given the incubation period. At least if he got it from her. I suppose we will see.
The other kids are due for it this upcoming week. Unfortunately, Joe is out of town from Tuesday through Friday, so if they do get it this week, I am hoping it'll be towards the end. Ah, childhood illness. At least we will have gotten it over, though. Please pray that it happens quickly and mildly, if you could?
In the kitchen: Crock pot chicken, chicken noodle soup, turkey rice casserole and bean/ cheese/ rice squares. Made some chocolate chocolate chip cookies and snickerdoodles on New Years, maybe some more cookies tomorrow? Pumpkin butterscotch chip, I am thinking.
Crafting: Finished my scarf- just in time for this frigid weather. I am still working on my co-workers gloves.
Bringing me joy: A relatively peaceful day at home, sledding with the kids, Issy playing school with Adelle and George without any prompting, warm showers, naps, evening out with a friend, walking into work in the morning, having lunch with Joe.
Thinking about: 2013. Honestly, I am not sad to say good-bye. It was just kind of a rough year- Kolbe dying, never-ending winter, epic amounts of mosquitoes when winter finally ended, Isaac getting Kawasaki, Clementine getting Lyme disease, money stress, early mornings. But as we were putting together our 2013 slideshow, Joe and I were talking about how we still had an excess of beautiful moments we were able to include. So it certainly wasn't perfect and I hope 2014 is better but we still have a great life here.
I don't have any other pictures to include, but if you aren't on facebook with me or didn't get to see the slideshow, here it is. Happy New Years, my friends!
Clothing myself in: Maurice's skinny jeans, the boots Mom and Dad Marney got me for my birthday and actually, a cute flannel shirt Mom and Dad Marney got me for Christmas. This outfit was almost entirely from Mom and Dad Marney- except a I threw Joe's robe over it cause I was cold :)
Around the house: We made a concerted effort on basement clean-up today since our kitchen project is nearing a close and the basement is next. Well, kind of next. We might do a quick detour into transitioning George into Liam's room and making G's room an office before we buckle down on the basement. But it is nice to have the basement in order. Whenever it is all picked up and tidy, I can see the potential for when it is completed. It is going to be such great space.
The toddler: I have been trying (and sometimes succeeding!) at being very positive with him especially when he is being particularly challenging. I have found that when he starts being ornery, if I can engage him positively, I can almost always turn it around. It is hard, though. Sometimes dinner has to be made or we are just trying to get out of the door and those are the times when it is most difficult to deal with his challenging behavior. But I feel like I have this effective tool that I was unaware of before, so it is something. Bit by bit with that little guy.
The kiddos: Yes, chicken pox. Issy definitely had it. She got a pretty mild case, but there was one miserably itchy night. I took her to the Physician's Assistant on Tuesday to confirm it, who told me it was fine if I just called in when the other kids got it and they would make note of it in their charts. Isaac had a fever tonight, which was how Issy's started, but it would be a little early for chicken pox, given the incubation period. At least if he got it from her. I suppose we will see.
The other kids are due for it this upcoming week. Unfortunately, Joe is out of town from Tuesday through Friday, so if they do get it this week, I am hoping it'll be towards the end. Ah, childhood illness. At least we will have gotten it over, though. Please pray that it happens quickly and mildly, if you could?
In the kitchen: Crock pot chicken, chicken noodle soup, turkey rice casserole and bean/ cheese/ rice squares. Made some chocolate chocolate chip cookies and snickerdoodles on New Years, maybe some more cookies tomorrow? Pumpkin butterscotch chip, I am thinking.
Crafting: Finished my scarf- just in time for this frigid weather. I am still working on my co-workers gloves.
Bringing me joy: A relatively peaceful day at home, sledding with the kids, Issy playing school with Adelle and George without any prompting, warm showers, naps, evening out with a friend, walking into work in the morning, having lunch with Joe.
Thinking about: 2013. Honestly, I am not sad to say good-bye. It was just kind of a rough year- Kolbe dying, never-ending winter, epic amounts of mosquitoes when winter finally ended, Isaac getting Kawasaki, Clementine getting Lyme disease, money stress, early mornings. But as we were putting together our 2013 slideshow, Joe and I were talking about how we still had an excess of beautiful moments we were able to include. So it certainly wasn't perfect and I hope 2014 is better but we still have a great life here.
I don't have any other pictures to include, but if you aren't on facebook with me or didn't get to see the slideshow, here it is. Happy New Years, my friends!
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Journal: It's not you, it's me...
Out my window: Whew, a lot has changed since I blogged last. It has been very cold and pretty snowy this December. There are probably about 9? inches of snow currently on the ground. It is clear and I can see the crescent moon in the brightening sky. It is supposed to be "warm" (in the thirties) today and then get frigidly cold again.
Clothing myself in: Jammies. I rolled out of bed this fine Saturday morning at 6:11 and threw on a robe and slippers when Issy woke me up. She had a fever yesterday and a few red bumps on her tummy. She woke me up to tell me some of them are itchy, some have blistered and she has more. I am thinking chickenpox, though I suppose that will become apparent over the next few days.
Around the house: Kitchen is almost done. The cabinets are all painted and put back together, the kitchen is painted. All we have left is putting up a little more woodwork, touching up some paint and a few knobs left on the cabinets.It looks great :)
The toddler: Super duper sweet and ornery. The biggest development over the last (almost) two months is that he has started to love his ABCs. And is fairly good at recognizing them, too. He still gets up ridiculously early, is very loud and opinionated. He also has a great smile, and likes to give "prisses" (kisses) and play in the snow.
The kiddos: Adelle is doing great at daycare. She really loves playing with her friend there. Issy, Isaac and Liam are almost halfway through the school year. Other than Isaac have an abysmal penmanship grade, they are all doing well.
~~~~~continued Saturday afternoon~~~~~
In the kitchen: Hm, I made the menu a few days ago, but I just don't remember much of what is on it. Turkey burgers and potato soup. I made some beer bread yesterday with our Italian sausage soup that would have been better if my non-stick pan had been up to par. A good portion of the delicious crusty bottom stayed in the pan :P
Crafting: I started knitting myself a scarf to match my coat a few weeks ago out of the blue and white yarn that I did the soaker in this post. I am working on knitting two of my co-workers some fingerless gloves for Christmas.
Bringing me joy: Afternoon naps, George saying, "Mom! You came back!" very enthusiastically in the afternoon when I pick him up, evening walk/jogs with Joe, the glow of Christmas lights, George singing his ABCs, a low-key but lovely Christmas.
Thinking about: How to effectively deal with my kids, especially George. He is two. He is extremely strong-willed. Extremely. More than any of my other kids. He is very large and strong for his age. He is very smart and verbal. And so, so exhausting. If he was my only child and I had unlimited time on my hands, I might feel less overwhelmed by him. I am just trying to figure him out and the best way to work with him.
So that's all I have this Saturday afternoon. Sorry for the absence- I am just trying to figure out what I can fit into the newly reconfigured schedule and still keep my sanity. I really like blogging though and hope to find time :)
Clothing myself in: Jammies. I rolled out of bed this fine Saturday morning at 6:11 and threw on a robe and slippers when Issy woke me up. She had a fever yesterday and a few red bumps on her tummy. She woke me up to tell me some of them are itchy, some have blistered and she has more. I am thinking chickenpox, though I suppose that will become apparent over the next few days.
Around the house: Kitchen is almost done. The cabinets are all painted and put back together, the kitchen is painted. All we have left is putting up a little more woodwork, touching up some paint and a few knobs left on the cabinets.It looks great :)
The toddler: Super duper sweet and ornery. The biggest development over the last (almost) two months is that he has started to love his ABCs. And is fairly good at recognizing them, too. He still gets up ridiculously early, is very loud and opinionated. He also has a great smile, and likes to give "prisses" (kisses) and play in the snow.
The kiddos: Adelle is doing great at daycare. She really loves playing with her friend there. Issy, Isaac and Liam are almost halfway through the school year. Other than Isaac have an abysmal penmanship grade, they are all doing well.
~~~~~continued Saturday afternoon~~~~~
In the kitchen: Hm, I made the menu a few days ago, but I just don't remember much of what is on it. Turkey burgers and potato soup. I made some beer bread yesterday with our Italian sausage soup that would have been better if my non-stick pan had been up to par. A good portion of the delicious crusty bottom stayed in the pan :P
Crafting: I started knitting myself a scarf to match my coat a few weeks ago out of the blue and white yarn that I did the soaker in this post. I am working on knitting two of my co-workers some fingerless gloves for Christmas.
Bringing me joy: Afternoon naps, George saying, "Mom! You came back!" very enthusiastically in the afternoon when I pick him up, evening walk/jogs with Joe, the glow of Christmas lights, George singing his ABCs, a low-key but lovely Christmas.
Thinking about: How to effectively deal with my kids, especially George. He is two. He is extremely strong-willed. Extremely. More than any of my other kids. He is very large and strong for his age. He is very smart and verbal. And so, so exhausting. If he was my only child and I had unlimited time on my hands, I might feel less overwhelmed by him. I am just trying to figure him out and the best way to work with him.
So that's all I have this Saturday afternoon. Sorry for the absence- I am just trying to figure out what I can fit into the newly reconfigured schedule and still keep my sanity. I really like blogging though and hope to find time :)
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Journal: Ch-ch-changes
Out my window: Dark and 43. I hate the end of Daylight Savings Time, it was dark by 5 this evening. Bleh. I mean, I know that I will adjust, but I get a little bit curmudgeony about it.
The poop smell has subsided significantly since last Wednesday. I smelled it a teensy bit this afternoon, but man, I just hope it doesn't return with the same fervor as before.
Clothing myself in: Brown yoga pants and K-State sweatshirt. Foxy, I tell you.
Around the house: Joe had Friday off for All Saint's Day (hooray for Catholic employers!) so we had a three day weekend. We relaxed a fair amount and we also made a concerted effort on painting our cabinets. They are coming along nicely. I would like to have the kitchen all painted and put back together by mid- December.
The toddler: It was one of those weeks in childhood development where you can just tell that he grew up. It is hard to explain. He is (slightly) more compliant, significantly more articulate and generally just more chilled out. I mean, he is still George, but there were several times this week when he just played nicely, with toys, by himself. It was wonderful. And his speech. He talks so well and he is such a big dude, sometimes I forget he is just a tad over two years old.
The kiddos: Adelle is in the whiney phase again. We have thrown a lot of changes at her the last few months- stopped sucking her thumb in July, separated rooms with Issy in August, Liam went to school in September, leaving her with George all day. And oh man, I am feeling it. I really try to be patient with the wailing, and the return of thumb sucking and the coming to our bed in the middle of the night. Sometimes I do better than others. The meltdowns are the hardest. Poor little gal has had her little world rocked. And will some more soon...
In the kitchen: Crock pot chicken, I think I will make some pork and sweet potato stew. I should really get started on the 20 dozen cookies I need to make for the school fundraiser in a month and just freeze them...
Crafting: Nuh uh.
Bringing me joy: Anticipation for our upcoming visit to Kansas, fresh piney air, a smooth job interview, a job offer, seeing the kid's Halloween joy, hanging out with Joe for three days.
Thinking about: I interviewed for the job on Wednesday and got a job offer on Thursday afternoon. I am going to spend a little time there this week, just to see what it is like and I am hoping to discuss start date and all of that then. Blessedly, we will still be able to take our trip to Kansas for Thanksgiving, which is great. I am glad that we will get to do that before I really settle into the job.
I am nervous/ excited about the job- it is a sales admin job with Catholic Word's division of Ignatius Press. Basically, Ignatius Press has three positions in the Catholic Word office in Necedah (with headquarters in San Francisco and a distribution center in Ft. Collins, CO) and I will be filling one of them. I will be working in the same place as Joe, though in a different part of the company.
It is a lot of different for us. A whole lot. I haven't really worked outside of the home since before Issy was born, so all of them have always known me being a home. I have the Mother Guilt ™ about leaving the kids, even though a good friend of mine is doing daycare. Just you know, not seeing all their day to day things. But I am also excited about flexing my brain in a different way and interacting with adults on a regular basis. So you know, conflicted. I am just praying for a smooth transition for my littles.
The poop smell has subsided significantly since last Wednesday. I smelled it a teensy bit this afternoon, but man, I just hope it doesn't return with the same fervor as before.
Clothing myself in: Brown yoga pants and K-State sweatshirt. Foxy, I tell you.
Around the house: Joe had Friday off for All Saint's Day (hooray for Catholic employers!) so we had a three day weekend. We relaxed a fair amount and we also made a concerted effort on painting our cabinets. They are coming along nicely. I would like to have the kitchen all painted and put back together by mid- December.
The toddler: It was one of those weeks in childhood development where you can just tell that he grew up. It is hard to explain. He is (slightly) more compliant, significantly more articulate and generally just more chilled out. I mean, he is still George, but there were several times this week when he just played nicely, with toys, by himself. It was wonderful. And his speech. He talks so well and he is such a big dude, sometimes I forget he is just a tad over two years old.
The kiddos: Adelle is in the whiney phase again. We have thrown a lot of changes at her the last few months- stopped sucking her thumb in July, separated rooms with Issy in August, Liam went to school in September, leaving her with George all day. And oh man, I am feeling it. I really try to be patient with the wailing, and the return of thumb sucking and the coming to our bed in the middle of the night. Sometimes I do better than others. The meltdowns are the hardest. Poor little gal has had her little world rocked. And will some more soon...
In the kitchen: Crock pot chicken, I think I will make some pork and sweet potato stew. I should really get started on the 20 dozen cookies I need to make for the school fundraiser in a month and just freeze them...
Crafting: Nuh uh.
Bringing me joy: Anticipation for our upcoming visit to Kansas, fresh piney air, a smooth job interview, a job offer, seeing the kid's Halloween joy, hanging out with Joe for three days.
Thinking about: I interviewed for the job on Wednesday and got a job offer on Thursday afternoon. I am going to spend a little time there this week, just to see what it is like and I am hoping to discuss start date and all of that then. Blessedly, we will still be able to take our trip to Kansas for Thanksgiving, which is great. I am glad that we will get to do that before I really settle into the job.
I am nervous/ excited about the job- it is a sales admin job with Catholic Word's division of Ignatius Press. Basically, Ignatius Press has three positions in the Catholic Word office in Necedah (with headquarters in San Francisco and a distribution center in Ft. Collins, CO) and I will be filling one of them. I will be working in the same place as Joe, though in a different part of the company.
It is a lot of different for us. A whole lot. I haven't really worked outside of the home since before Issy was born, so all of them have always known me being a home. I have the Mother Guilt ™ about leaving the kids, even though a good friend of mine is doing daycare. Just you know, not seeing all their day to day things. But I am also excited about flexing my brain in a different way and interacting with adults on a regular basis. So you know, conflicted. I am just praying for a smooth transition for my littles.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Journal: Deep Fall
Out my window: 42 and cloudy. It smells like stinky poop outside. I have no idea why. This happened last year at the end of November for about a week. Like really pungently horrible. I hope that it goes away soon.
Clothing myself in: Exercise pants with a stripe. Josh Groban concert T-shirt.
Around the house: We actually got a chance to work on building up the dirt in the front of the house. It feels good to have gotten a chance to work on it. Painting.
The toddler: He has gotten very funny and cute lately. He has been playing by himself with toys much better as well- I can currently hear him in the living room pretending to be sleeping. He played with a dinosaur and tractor for a long time earlier. Getting a very good imagination.
The kiddos: Delle started sucking her thumb again about a month ago and we have been working on stopping that again. She had done super great from July to when I got ill last month. Last night we realized that what helped in the first place was painting her fingernails- she didn't want to smudge the nail polish. So I painted her nails this afternoon and she didn't even attempt at naptime. If I can keep on that, hopefully we can get her back on track.
Need to nail down costumes for All Saint's Day and Halloween in a few days. Why do I procrastinate? The end of October comes at the same time every year.
In the kitchen: Chicken Enchiladas, grilled cheese with pumpkin soup, three bean chili, egg casserole.
Crafting: Nope.
Bringing me joy: Evening walk/jogs, George's naptime, Adelle's smile, clean laundry, a well-behaved house puppy, Reconciliation (why do I put it off? I always feel better after), friendships that have lasted many years.
Thinking about: I am actually interviewing for a job on Wednesday. An out-of-the-house job. Please keep me in your prayers?
Clothing myself in: Exercise pants with a stripe. Josh Groban concert T-shirt.
Around the house: We actually got a chance to work on building up the dirt in the front of the house. It feels good to have gotten a chance to work on it. Painting.
The toddler: He has gotten very funny and cute lately. He has been playing by himself with toys much better as well- I can currently hear him in the living room pretending to be sleeping. He played with a dinosaur and tractor for a long time earlier. Getting a very good imagination.
The kiddos: Delle started sucking her thumb again about a month ago and we have been working on stopping that again. She had done super great from July to when I got ill last month. Last night we realized that what helped in the first place was painting her fingernails- she didn't want to smudge the nail polish. So I painted her nails this afternoon and she didn't even attempt at naptime. If I can keep on that, hopefully we can get her back on track.
Need to nail down costumes for All Saint's Day and Halloween in a few days. Why do I procrastinate? The end of October comes at the same time every year.
In the kitchen: Chicken Enchiladas, grilled cheese with pumpkin soup, three bean chili, egg casserole.
Crafting: Nope.
Bringing me joy: Evening walk/jogs, George's naptime, Adelle's smile, clean laundry, a well-behaved house puppy, Reconciliation (why do I put it off? I always feel better after), friendships that have lasted many years.
Thinking about: I am actually interviewing for a job on Wednesday. An out-of-the-house job. Please keep me in your prayers?
Monday, October 21, 2013
Journal: Mega-date
Out my window: 37 with a teensy bit of sun. Brrrr. Highs in the 40s this week. Not really ready for winter, but I guess it will come when it comes.
Clothing myself in: I was freezing, even with the heater on, so I put on the wicked sweater that I knit 4? years ago. Has it really been that long? Some jeggings that I got from Maurice's with my birthday money from Mom and Dad Marney. Well, Maurice's calls them jeggings, but that brings to my mind leggings that look like jeans. I would call these "skinny jeans" but I suppose they can market things how they wish, lol. I actually also have on the boots I got with my birthday money. So thanks for the outfit, Mom and Dad Marney. It is nice to have clothes that fit that I feel look nice on me.
Around the house: Just working on painting the cabinets. That is the ongoing project for the foreseeable future.
The toddler: Mostly good. He has had some bouts of crazy fit-throwing today when things haven't gone his way, even more so than usual. Maybe from me and Joe being gone? Hoping it passes quickly.
The kiddos: Liam told me that Mondays are his favorite day so he can go back to school. So it's pretty safe to say he likes school :) Issy was a great helper to the baby-sitter over the weekend, she is growing up so fast! Isaac got a remote control car and a bow and arrow from his godparents for his birthday and has been having all sorts of fun with those. Adelle is loving the preschool co-op we have been doing :)
In the kitchen: Meh, need to make a menu and list and go to the store this week.
Crafting: Nope. Creative energy goes to house projects. But seriously- the kitchen is going to look awesome when it is done.
Bringing me joy: Awesome night away with Joe. I want to remember it all- the gorgeous drive with the fall leaves, the lovely hotel, walking downtown in Minneapolis holding onto Joe's arm, delicious dinner at a fun pub, the excitement of waiting in line for the show, the awesome music, blissful night's sleep, the way Joe sounds when he laughs. Our life isn't perfect, but I am so glad I get to do it with him. The break was so nice and it was refreshing to come back to the kids.
Thinking about: How to live a full life with minimal regrets at the end of it.
Picture to share:
Clothing myself in: I was freezing, even with the heater on, so I put on the wicked sweater that I knit 4? years ago. Has it really been that long? Some jeggings that I got from Maurice's with my birthday money from Mom and Dad Marney. Well, Maurice's calls them jeggings, but that brings to my mind leggings that look like jeans. I would call these "skinny jeans" but I suppose they can market things how they wish, lol. I actually also have on the boots I got with my birthday money. So thanks for the outfit, Mom and Dad Marney. It is nice to have clothes that fit that I feel look nice on me.
Around the house: Just working on painting the cabinets. That is the ongoing project for the foreseeable future.
The toddler: Mostly good. He has had some bouts of crazy fit-throwing today when things haven't gone his way, even more so than usual. Maybe from me and Joe being gone? Hoping it passes quickly.
The kiddos: Liam told me that Mondays are his favorite day so he can go back to school. So it's pretty safe to say he likes school :) Issy was a great helper to the baby-sitter over the weekend, she is growing up so fast! Isaac got a remote control car and a bow and arrow from his godparents for his birthday and has been having all sorts of fun with those. Adelle is loving the preschool co-op we have been doing :)
In the kitchen: Meh, need to make a menu and list and go to the store this week.
Crafting: Nope. Creative energy goes to house projects. But seriously- the kitchen is going to look awesome when it is done.
Bringing me joy: Awesome night away with Joe. I want to remember it all- the gorgeous drive with the fall leaves, the lovely hotel, walking downtown in Minneapolis holding onto Joe's arm, delicious dinner at a fun pub, the excitement of waiting in line for the show, the awesome music, blissful night's sleep, the way Joe sounds when he laughs. Our life isn't perfect, but I am so glad I get to do it with him. The break was so nice and it was refreshing to come back to the kids.
Thinking about: How to live a full life with minimal regrets at the end of it.
Picture to share:
Birthday outfit from Mom and Dad Marney. Took this a couple of weeks ago. Maybe someday I will upload blurry date pictures :)
Friday, October 18, 2013
Journal: Hey there.
Out my window: 45 and cloudy.
Clothing myself in: Work jeans that have paint on them. Blue stripey shirt with a grey sweatshirt.
Around the house: Well, I was sick a couple of weekends ago, and Joe decided to put laminate in the kitchen while I was out. I mean, I knew he was doing it. We had talked about doing it for a while because that white linoleum was so difficult to clean. I mean, even after I cleaned it, it still looked very dingy. The laminate is lovely and so ridiculously easy to clean. It actually looks clean after I mop it!
Of course, these kinds of projects often lead to others, so I painted the reading nook with leftover paint from the master bathroom- love it! It's such a great color. And it means I didn't have to buy more paint :) We are also painting the kitchen cabinets white, which is a bit of a process, but it is coming along. We are also painting the kitchen with some basement paint, so yay- don't have to buy more paint there! I can't wait till it's finished.
We have also been working in the woods- Isaac got a hatchet for his birthday, so he has been an enthusiastic participant. We have had to take out some trees because of oak wilt and a few of our pines have died because of the drought. It would be perfect if the ticks hadn't come back out :P
The toddler: Overall, pretty great. We are getting more "after six a.m." days which I am grateful for. He loves playing outside. Talks all the time. Still working on gentleness, but improving.
The kiddos: Got mid-terms last week. Everyone did pretty great, overall. Everyone needs to work on their handwriting, lol. I really love their school. Love that it is small, love that they love it. I feel really blessed that we found it.
In the kitchen: This butternut squash, pasta and butter thing. I make some substitutions because I haven't been able to find orecchiette or chicken sausage. But it is super yum anyways.
Crafting: Nope. All creative energy has been spent redoing the kitchen.
Bringing me joy: Watching Joe and George play together. Hugging my very tall Issy. Seeing how proud Isaac is about his hatchet. Listening to Liam read. Listening to tell sing Jars of Clay songs.
Thinking about: DATE TOMORROW NIGHT! Josh Groban and spending the night in a hotel in Minneapolis. Seriously, really really excited. I love my kids to pieces but I am so looking forward to 24 hours of just concentrated marriage time. And sleep. Really excited about the sleep.
Clothing myself in: Work jeans that have paint on them. Blue stripey shirt with a grey sweatshirt.
Around the house: Well, I was sick a couple of weekends ago, and Joe decided to put laminate in the kitchen while I was out. I mean, I knew he was doing it. We had talked about doing it for a while because that white linoleum was so difficult to clean. I mean, even after I cleaned it, it still looked very dingy. The laminate is lovely and so ridiculously easy to clean. It actually looks clean after I mop it!
Of course, these kinds of projects often lead to others, so I painted the reading nook with leftover paint from the master bathroom- love it! It's such a great color. And it means I didn't have to buy more paint :) We are also painting the kitchen cabinets white, which is a bit of a process, but it is coming along. We are also painting the kitchen with some basement paint, so yay- don't have to buy more paint there! I can't wait till it's finished.
We have also been working in the woods- Isaac got a hatchet for his birthday, so he has been an enthusiastic participant. We have had to take out some trees because of oak wilt and a few of our pines have died because of the drought. It would be perfect if the ticks hadn't come back out :P
The toddler: Overall, pretty great. We are getting more "after six a.m." days which I am grateful for. He loves playing outside. Talks all the time. Still working on gentleness, but improving.
The kiddos: Got mid-terms last week. Everyone did pretty great, overall. Everyone needs to work on their handwriting, lol. I really love their school. Love that it is small, love that they love it. I feel really blessed that we found it.
In the kitchen: This butternut squash, pasta and butter thing. I make some substitutions because I haven't been able to find orecchiette or chicken sausage. But it is super yum anyways.
Crafting: Nope. All creative energy has been spent redoing the kitchen.
Bringing me joy: Watching Joe and George play together. Hugging my very tall Issy. Seeing how proud Isaac is about his hatchet. Listening to Liam read. Listening to tell sing Jars of Clay songs.
Thinking about: DATE TOMORROW NIGHT! Josh Groban and spending the night in a hotel in Minneapolis. Seriously, really really excited. I love my kids to pieces but I am so looking forward to 24 hours of just concentrated marriage time. And sleep. Really excited about the sleep.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Journal: I am 32
Out my window: Dark, clear, 61. Fall crisp in the air.
Clothing myself in: Jeans, tennis shoes, Buddy Walk shirt. Got a new outfit this weekend with my birthday money from Mom and Dad Marney. Pretty exciting:
Around the house: Joe and the kids did some birthday house cleaning while I was shopping this weekend. He cut trees after dinner tonight with a chainsaw.
The toddler: Never a dull moment. We do pretty well playing outside in the morning and blessedly, he has been napping well. It gets dicey with him after school when we are trying to do homework, chat with the schoolers and make dinner. What can you do about it?
The kiddos: Isaac is very excited about his upcoming birthday. In an understated, Isaac sort of way. He decided on Bierock casserole and chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting. Lord of Rings themed, so that should be interesting. Big three have school off on Friday for the feast of St. Francis. I think it will be a bike ride, tea having, pumpkin bread baking kind of day.
In the kitchen: Joe and I had a fun Sunday in the kitchen- bierocks and apple pie. It was super tasty, but man. So many dishes. I finally got the last of them done and put away this afternoon.
Crafting: Closing in on that sweater. Push through, Erin.
Bringing me joy: Gorgeous, kinda pleasantly blustery fall days, campfires, new books, awesome music to listen to, ponder and listen to some more. When George lays his head on my shoulder or puts his big ol' toddler arms around my neck, coffee with real cream, new boots, pretty new fall ribbon I need to find something to do with.
Thinking about: God's will for our family. What kind of people I want my children to be when they grow up- how to do that.
I have pictures but I just want to post this, so I will share later in another post :)
Clothing myself in: Jeans, tennis shoes, Buddy Walk shirt. Got a new outfit this weekend with my birthday money from Mom and Dad Marney. Pretty exciting:
Around the house: Joe and the kids did some birthday house cleaning while I was shopping this weekend. He cut trees after dinner tonight with a chainsaw.
The toddler: Never a dull moment. We do pretty well playing outside in the morning and blessedly, he has been napping well. It gets dicey with him after school when we are trying to do homework, chat with the schoolers and make dinner. What can you do about it?
The kiddos: Isaac is very excited about his upcoming birthday. In an understated, Isaac sort of way. He decided on Bierock casserole and chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting. Lord of Rings themed, so that should be interesting. Big three have school off on Friday for the feast of St. Francis. I think it will be a bike ride, tea having, pumpkin bread baking kind of day.
In the kitchen: Joe and I had a fun Sunday in the kitchen- bierocks and apple pie. It was super tasty, but man. So many dishes. I finally got the last of them done and put away this afternoon.
Crafting: Closing in on that sweater. Push through, Erin.
Bringing me joy: Gorgeous, kinda pleasantly blustery fall days, campfires, new books, awesome music to listen to, ponder and listen to some more. When George lays his head on my shoulder or puts his big ol' toddler arms around my neck, coffee with real cream, new boots, pretty new fall ribbon I need to find something to do with.
Thinking about: God's will for our family. What kind of people I want my children to be when they grow up- how to do that.
I have pictures but I just want to post this, so I will share later in another post :)
Monday, September 23, 2013
Journal: End of September
Out my window: 47 and sunny. Beautiful fall weather.
Clothing myself in: Blue sweatpants, orange Old Navy fleece I got when I was pregnant with Isabelle.
Around the house: The garage sale was successful, glad it is over, now I need to decide what to do with the rest of the stuff. I have a little bit of hoarder in me, so it kind of pained me to sell the baby clothes, even though I kept all the pieces that were special to me. It is good to be unattached from "stuff". Although it isn't really the "stuff" that is special, but the time it reminds me of. It is good to move on to a new season in life, although sometimes a little hard to let go of the old one.
The toddler: Parenting him is very 1 step forward, 2 steps back. I should expect this, it is just difficult. He is very sweet and adorable when he says, "good morning, Mom" when I come get him in the morning and I love it when he says goodnight to me, his Barney and his racecar blanket. I just need to remember that parenting is a marathon, not a sprint.
The kiddos: I like that they like school. I like the quiet when they are at school. And I simultaneously miss having them around. I miss the old days of homeschooling sometimes. Although it is really, really nice not to have the pressure of wondering if I am teaching them enough, the "right" things, challenging them the "appropriate" amount.
In the kitchen: White chicken chili, bierocks (!) crock pot chicken, chicken noodle soup.
Crafting: I have several things half finished and am in the process of writing a couple hat patterns. Need to finish things instead of leaping into more projects.
Bringing me joy: Apple picking, Adelle and George building a relationship, Isabelle's mature helpfulness, the filtered sunlight in autumn colored trees, clean laundry, cider-scented candles.
Thinking about: What the new season of life holds for us. Still.
Clothing myself in: Blue sweatpants, orange Old Navy fleece I got when I was pregnant with Isabelle.
Around the house: The garage sale was successful, glad it is over, now I need to decide what to do with the rest of the stuff. I have a little bit of hoarder in me, so it kind of pained me to sell the baby clothes, even though I kept all the pieces that were special to me. It is good to be unattached from "stuff". Although it isn't really the "stuff" that is special, but the time it reminds me of. It is good to move on to a new season in life, although sometimes a little hard to let go of the old one.
The toddler: Parenting him is very 1 step forward, 2 steps back. I should expect this, it is just difficult. He is very sweet and adorable when he says, "good morning, Mom" when I come get him in the morning and I love it when he says goodnight to me, his Barney and his racecar blanket. I just need to remember that parenting is a marathon, not a sprint.
The kiddos: I like that they like school. I like the quiet when they are at school. And I simultaneously miss having them around. I miss the old days of homeschooling sometimes. Although it is really, really nice not to have the pressure of wondering if I am teaching them enough, the "right" things, challenging them the "appropriate" amount.
In the kitchen: White chicken chili, bierocks (!) crock pot chicken, chicken noodle soup.
Crafting: I have several things half finished and am in the process of writing a couple hat patterns. Need to finish things instead of leaping into more projects.
Bringing me joy: Apple picking, Adelle and George building a relationship, Isabelle's mature helpfulness, the filtered sunlight in autumn colored trees, clean laundry, cider-scented candles.
Thinking about: What the new season of life holds for us. Still.
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