Out my window: The sun is rising over the mountain. It was sunny and in the 60s yesterday, supposed to be cold today and then snow tomorrow and Friday. Ah, mountains.
Clothing myself in: Brown yoga pants, grey Jackson Hole long sleeve T, grey fleece.
Around the house: I have two baskets of clean laundry that have been sitting in my living room for 4? 5? days. And actually, by the time I put it away, it's going to be time to do laundry again, darn it! Mom and Dad Marney are coming to visit this weekend and to help us celebrate Liam's First Communion, so I am going to spiff up the house a bit. Maybe put away things that I've been meaning to actually put away for the last month? Joe hung up some art and photos on the walls this weekend, which is exciting.
Life with Kids: Our local school district has something they call "Homeschool Enrichment Academy". They have had the program at the other elementary school in the district and now they are going to have it in the elementary school near our house, as well. They have a separate building on the school campus where the homeschoolers will gather to do, well, enriching, things- art, music, PE, Science projects, public speaking in the form of sharing what they are working on at home, Lego robotics. It looks fun and fantastic. A way for them to meet friends, get in all those "extras". They are also able to be a part of all the extra-curriculars available to all the other kids in the district. It is pretty exciting.
We are also going to enroll George in preschool there as well. It'll be Monday- Thursday, half day. I am interested to see how that will go. We have never had a child go to preschool before. But we are still taking our school or homeschooling choices "year by year and child by child". I am hoping that it will be a helpful experience for him. We talked with the preschool teachers yesterday and I think it will be a good fit. It is play-based, with a touch of "academics" but very at their level and low pressure.
Liam received his First Reconciliation on March 28th and will be receiving his First Communion this Sunday the 19th. He is so excited. He has waited years for this!
Bringing me joy: Girl's night with some new friends, Triduum services with my big kids, exciting homeschool opportunities, how amazingly welcoming people in our Church and school communities have been, reading in the sunshine on the deck, the smell of sun-warmed pine trees, cute little squirrels, weekend adventures, new nail polish in the loveliest shade of pink, beer at local pub with my hubby.
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
House Tour Part II- The Main Floor
Okay so Joe actually did Part I- The Basement on his blog about a month ago. So you can mosey on over there for the pictures of the basement/ ground floor.
This is the view from the side door. To my right are the stairs to go to the loft/ master bedroom. You will have to wait for that until next post because I can only clean one floor of my house at a time. That doorway across the room and to the right is the entrance to the dining room.
Dining room when you are standing in the kitchen.
Kitchen when you are standing in the dining room. Also, the doorway across the room and to the right goes to the hallway and also loops back around to the living room.
Hallway. From the left- Bathroom, Big Boy's Room, Adelle and George's Room, gate leads to the Basement.
Bathroom. I love shower doors! I can shut the water and splashing in with the little kids while they bathe.
Adelle and George's Room.
View 2 of their room.
Big Boy's room. I am actually standing next to where the Lego table is, which still needs legs so I am not going to take a picture of it.
So there you go!
Thursday, April 2, 2015
Around the house here
I have taken a few pictures around the house the last few weeks. I finally got around to dumping them on the computer, so here we are. Welcome to our home!
Isaac helping make some granola bars. He really likes helping in the kitchen.
My boys doing something? involving ants? I don't know, but this was a unified project that kept them busy for at least an hour one day. Which is kind of miraculous.
The girls and I watched from the deck.
We have been in desperate need of a fresh stash of play dough, so we made some this morning. The entertainment lasted hours. I had to give the carpet a good vacuum afterwards, but it was totally worth it.
A heart for me.
Volcano
Even my big girl had fun!
Uh, this little project (we dyed the playdough with frosting dye) left my hands quite discolored, even after washing. Oh well, I suppose it has to come off eventually?
Issy staged this and took the picture when she was playing with the littles one morning.
She also set up this tea party for them.
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Visit to the Great Sand Dunes
I visited the Great Sand Dunes National Park about 15? years ago, and I was just so taken with it. It is just an amazing slice of this wonderful Earth. A huge (seriously, huge!) pile of sand nestled up against gorgeous mountains. I have wanted to go back for many years and when I knew we were moving to Colorado that it was something I wanted to share with my family. So even though it is a three hour drive, we packed some food, threw the kids and dog in the car and made a day of it. I am really glad we did. We even got to see some amazing clouds in our drive home.
Saturday, March 14, 2015
Journal: Settling in
Outside my window: Dark but the snow is almost melted. It has been beautiful here, for the most part. Sunny, warmish. Lots of time spent on the deck in the sunshine.
Clothing myself in: Tan pants, Jackson Hole long sleeved T. Grey fleece.
Around the house: I have a box of vases I still need to find a place for and two boxes of stuffed animals I still need to figure out what to do with. And yes, that is after giving away a lot of stuffed animals. Other than that, we are all unpacked. I am sure there will be some tweaking as the flow of the spaces becomes more apparent, but it's good for now :)
The kiddos:We are settling into a nice school routine. It is a mishmash of things I am putting together. Khan Academy for Math, Science and Computer Programming (how cool is that?), Reading the Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings series for Literature. Tall Tales for the little ones. The only one I am stuck on is History. It is so hard to get age appropriate, interesting, history with as little bias as possible.
Adelle has started in Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons and it's going smoothly so far. It has been much more relaxed than it was with the virtual school but they are still learning a ton and loving it, for the most part. I got hooked up with the Woodland Park homeschooling group, so that is exciting to see where that leads. From what I have gathered, there is a lot of opportunities for homeschoolers in this area. Exciting.
George is now completely potty trained, even at night. Going to work on weaning next :) I told him we would be done when Spring came. I am ready. He is ready, even if he doesn't know it.
In the kitchen: White Chicken Chili and that's about all I currently have planned. I am working on compiling some high altitude baking recipes to replace some of our favorites.
Crafting: I did actually pull out some dishcloth yarn and start knitting a fun dishcloth last night. It was just so cozy in front of the fire, it seemed appropriate :)
Clothing myself in: Tan pants, Jackson Hole long sleeved T. Grey fleece.
Around the house: I have a box of vases I still need to find a place for and two boxes of stuffed animals I still need to figure out what to do with. And yes, that is after giving away a lot of stuffed animals. Other than that, we are all unpacked. I am sure there will be some tweaking as the flow of the spaces becomes more apparent, but it's good for now :)
The kiddos:We are settling into a nice school routine. It is a mishmash of things I am putting together. Khan Academy for Math, Science and Computer Programming (how cool is that?), Reading the Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings series for Literature. Tall Tales for the little ones. The only one I am stuck on is History. It is so hard to get age appropriate, interesting, history with as little bias as possible.
Adelle has started in Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons and it's going smoothly so far. It has been much more relaxed than it was with the virtual school but they are still learning a ton and loving it, for the most part. I got hooked up with the Woodland Park homeschooling group, so that is exciting to see where that leads. From what I have gathered, there is a lot of opportunities for homeschoolers in this area. Exciting.
George is now completely potty trained, even at night. Going to work on weaning next :) I told him we would be done when Spring came. I am ready. He is ready, even if he doesn't know it.
In the kitchen: White Chicken Chili and that's about all I currently have planned. I am working on compiling some high altitude baking recipes to replace some of our favorites.
Crafting: I did actually pull out some dishcloth yarn and start knitting a fun dishcloth last night. It was just so cozy in front of the fire, it seemed appropriate :)
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Journal: We are home
Out my window: Dark and cold. Snow is falling on the gigantic pine trees in my yard.
Clothing myself in: Jeans, The Hawk In Paris t-shirt, pink hoodie.
Around the house: Kitchen cleaned, mostly organized, main floor bathroom scrupulously cleaned, master bathroom cleaned and organized, seasonal decorations and keepsake tubs put in storage. Clothes put away in dressers and closets. A fair amount of boxes still left in the basement. I am a fairly efficient unpacker, but trying to decide where to put things is tricky. What works in one house doesn't necessarily work in another and there isn't necessarily an equivalent space for things in each home. It is fine though- I have time to figure it all out.
The kiddos: Adjusting. They have played with toys that have been packed away with enthusiasm, explored our property a bit, read books. It certainly isn't easy, but they are very good kids, and they have taken it all in stride. Adelle and George sharing a room has been going well so far- bedtime was my main worry, but he goes to sleep while she reads with Issy and then she goes in. Painless, so far. We are unpacking this week and then back to school next week.
In the kitchen: Easy meals planned this week while the unpacking is in full force- chili, biscuits and gravy, roast. Isabelle and I made peanut butter granola today. Made the house smell heavenly!
Crafting: Not yet. I can at least see the large wicker basket that holds all my yarn though, so that is a start!
Bringing me joy: I had the opportunity to see a lot of friends and family when we were in Wichita, which is always so lovely. Stories, laughing, baby snuggling, long talks. Pulling up to the new house, Joe on the porch to greet us, fire in the wood stove will be a memory I forever cherish. Sunshine through big windows. Cleaning and putting our things away and making this house our home.
Thinking about: It is hard to believe that we are here. It is this beautiful blend of free will and our choosing to set this in motion and God's guidance. At the end of this post in June of 2013, I mentioned us talking at dinner that night about homeschooling and moving back to the mountains. And last April, things started happening in our lives that allowed that to happen. The last 10 months- from our decision to try to move back to the mountains, to being here, have at times felt like an eternity, but in hindsight seem so short.
But truly, things have happened in God's good timing. From this house not being available when we were under the first contract in Wisconsin, to eventually settling on the house in Idaho and then losing the contract in Wisconsin and eventually losing the contract on the house in Idaho and having nothing at all. But, because things all work when they need to, we got an offer on the Wisconsin house and this house was available and with a motivated seller. It truly was an answer to our prayers. After we went house- hunting in August and had three very different choices, our prayer was for roadblocks if we were not pursuing the right thing. I had no idea at the time that the first no on this home wasn't so much a no, as a "not yet".
So here we are, ready to begin this chapter in our adventure. I am so grateful for the previous chapters- we couldn't be who we are as individuals and as a family without them. I know that there will be hard days ahead, missing our friends and community and things yet unknown. But I know that we are where we need to be right now. What more can you ask for?
Clothing myself in: Jeans, The Hawk In Paris t-shirt, pink hoodie.
Around the house: Kitchen cleaned, mostly organized, main floor bathroom scrupulously cleaned, master bathroom cleaned and organized, seasonal decorations and keepsake tubs put in storage. Clothes put away in dressers and closets. A fair amount of boxes still left in the basement. I am a fairly efficient unpacker, but trying to decide where to put things is tricky. What works in one house doesn't necessarily work in another and there isn't necessarily an equivalent space for things in each home. It is fine though- I have time to figure it all out.
The kiddos: Adjusting. They have played with toys that have been packed away with enthusiasm, explored our property a bit, read books. It certainly isn't easy, but they are very good kids, and they have taken it all in stride. Adelle and George sharing a room has been going well so far- bedtime was my main worry, but he goes to sleep while she reads with Issy and then she goes in. Painless, so far. We are unpacking this week and then back to school next week.
In the kitchen: Easy meals planned this week while the unpacking is in full force- chili, biscuits and gravy, roast. Isabelle and I made peanut butter granola today. Made the house smell heavenly!
Crafting: Not yet. I can at least see the large wicker basket that holds all my yarn though, so that is a start!
Bringing me joy: I had the opportunity to see a lot of friends and family when we were in Wichita, which is always so lovely. Stories, laughing, baby snuggling, long talks. Pulling up to the new house, Joe on the porch to greet us, fire in the wood stove will be a memory I forever cherish. Sunshine through big windows. Cleaning and putting our things away and making this house our home.
Thinking about: It is hard to believe that we are here. It is this beautiful blend of free will and our choosing to set this in motion and God's guidance. At the end of this post in June of 2013, I mentioned us talking at dinner that night about homeschooling and moving back to the mountains. And last April, things started happening in our lives that allowed that to happen. The last 10 months- from our decision to try to move back to the mountains, to being here, have at times felt like an eternity, but in hindsight seem so short.
But truly, things have happened in God's good timing. From this house not being available when we were under the first contract in Wisconsin, to eventually settling on the house in Idaho and then losing the contract in Wisconsin and eventually losing the contract on the house in Idaho and having nothing at all. But, because things all work when they need to, we got an offer on the Wisconsin house and this house was available and with a motivated seller. It truly was an answer to our prayers. After we went house- hunting in August and had three very different choices, our prayer was for roadblocks if we were not pursuing the right thing. I had no idea at the time that the first no on this home wasn't so much a no, as a "not yet".
So here we are, ready to begin this chapter in our adventure. I am so grateful for the previous chapters- we couldn't be who we are as individuals and as a family without them. I know that there will be hard days ahead, missing our friends and community and things yet unknown. But I know that we are where we need to be right now. What more can you ask for?
Friday, February 6, 2015
A few more Disney pictures
We were taking a train ride to another part of the park in Animal Kingdom. I like it when everyone is sitting and all lined up neat and tidy. Adelle didn't know I was taking a picture.
Space Tiger and Snow Queen. Face painting was very popular
Liam wanted one too.
Waiting for the parade. Joe has some pictures of the parade on his blog.
Swimming was very popular. Adelle even told me it was her dream come true!
She slept about half of the plane ride home on my lap.
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
Journal: Disney edition
Out my window: Dark. 14 degrees and snowy
Clothing myself in: Jeans and my new Mickey Mouse hoodie. It's pink and retro and fun :)
Life with kids: Sooooo, starting in August? i think, Dad Marney hatched a plan bring all the kids, their spouses, and the grandkids to Disney World to surprise Mama Marney. So we met up with them the first night and it worked! I think she really couldn't believe all the grandkids were running up to hug her :)
We got to take the kids to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. I would like to say that George turned some sort of personality corner on this trip and behaved really excellently. But not really. He was very much himself- boisterous, exuberant, mischievous, opinionated, and intense. He really loved the roller coasters. From what I could tell, I think his favorite was Splash Mountain. He was very brave about trying new things and seemed enjoy most of it. He got to meet Lightening McQueen and Mater. I liked to look over at him when we were riding the big ones to see the glee on his face.
Adelle got to meet Elsa and Anna, do a Frozen sing along with them, and see them in the parade. She even had "Frozen" themed face paint during the parade and Elsa caught her eye, indicated to her face paint and gave her a thumbs up. She was over the moon. She was not without her meltdowns (getting a single stroller instead of a double was a grievous offense) but she bounced back just fine.
Liam got picked to be part the Monster's Inc Laugh Floor show. He was hilarious! They couldn't have picked a better kid. He loved Everest Expedition at Animal Kingdom and actually, he was really just quite taken with the Animal Kingdom as we suspected he would be. He was very excited that he earned 15 of 31 badges for the Wilderness Explorers.
My Isabelle and Isaac didn't meet a roller coaster they didn't love. They take after their Grandma Sullivan that way. I also got to take them to the pool at the resort a couple times which was a big hit.
Thinking about: After that very magical week, we resume life- packing! Finishing up the last few lessons. We are almost there!
Pictures to share: They are just camera pics, but at least they are something.
There are more, but I'll never finish this post if I don't just do it, so hopefully I'll upload more later.
Clothing myself in: Jeans and my new Mickey Mouse hoodie. It's pink and retro and fun :)
Life with kids: Sooooo, starting in August? i think, Dad Marney hatched a plan bring all the kids, their spouses, and the grandkids to Disney World to surprise Mama Marney. So we met up with them the first night and it worked! I think she really couldn't believe all the grandkids were running up to hug her :)
We got to take the kids to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. I would like to say that George turned some sort of personality corner on this trip and behaved really excellently. But not really. He was very much himself- boisterous, exuberant, mischievous, opinionated, and intense. He really loved the roller coasters. From what I could tell, I think his favorite was Splash Mountain. He was very brave about trying new things and seemed enjoy most of it. He got to meet Lightening McQueen and Mater. I liked to look over at him when we were riding the big ones to see the glee on his face.
Adelle got to meet Elsa and Anna, do a Frozen sing along with them, and see them in the parade. She even had "Frozen" themed face paint during the parade and Elsa caught her eye, indicated to her face paint and gave her a thumbs up. She was over the moon. She was not without her meltdowns (getting a single stroller instead of a double was a grievous offense) but she bounced back just fine.
Liam got picked to be part the Monster's Inc Laugh Floor show. He was hilarious! They couldn't have picked a better kid. He loved Everest Expedition at Animal Kingdom and actually, he was really just quite taken with the Animal Kingdom as we suspected he would be. He was very excited that he earned 15 of 31 badges for the Wilderness Explorers.
My Isabelle and Isaac didn't meet a roller coaster they didn't love. They take after their Grandma Sullivan that way. I also got to take them to the pool at the resort a couple times which was a big hit.
Thinking about: After that very magical week, we resume life- packing! Finishing up the last few lessons. We are almost there!
Pictures to share: They are just camera pics, but at least they are something.
My girls on the Merry- Go- Round at the Magic Kingdom
Issy, Isaac and Liam at the Swiss Family Robinson replica set.
Adelle admiring her Elsa doll.
Marneys and Littons at Epcot
Epcot was a late night after a pretty tiring day. For the first time in memory, George gave up and went to sleep. It's one for the record books, folks.
The Little Mermaid show we saw at Hollywood Studios. It was one of my favorites.
Face paint!
Very intent drawing while waiting for lunch.
This was a highlight. But then he wanted to climb into Mater and I had to explain it didn't work like that.
Adelle at the Frozen sing-along. Euphoria would be accurate.
Matching shirts!
We got to go on a Safari in Animal Kingdom. This guy started running in circles, it was pretty impressive. And it made me hope I am never chased by a rhino.
Alligator. Or crocodile? Why can I never remember the difference? Crocodile, I think.
Just a little fella.
He was big and handsome.
There are more, but I'll never finish this post if I don't just do it, so hopefully I'll upload more later.
Monday, January 26, 2015
Journal: Moving forward
Out my window: 22 and spitting snow. It has been remarkably non-snowy this year. Not complaining, just weird. Hoping the weather holds out for moving in a few weeks.
Clothing myself in: Brown shirt, jeans, black cardigan.
Life with kids: I was reading back to a year, year and a half ago on my blog the other day. I spent a lot of time and energy lamenting George's early wake-ups. Trying to rack my brain to make rhyme or reason of it. Alas, even though it still bothers me that he does it, I have kind of just accepted it for what it is. He grows well, eats well, plays well, is very intelligent. Some days it seems like parenting is just one big lesson in letting it go.
All the other kids are great. Learning so much. We had hit a rough patch with homeschooling in November/ December but we are back on track. It certainly isn't easy. But I love getting to be with the kids every day. And I love the quiet times (like right now, actually). George is napping, Liam is reading, Isabelle is writing a story for fun, and Isaac is helping Adelle with her videos for her lessons. Peace reigns, for this moment, in the Marney house.
Crafting: Nope, just packing. Organized and put away all my yarn yesterday. Sniff. See you on the other side, yarn.
Bringing me joy: Quiet. Boxes stacking up in my garage. The unburdening of getting rid of stuff we don't need. Wasabi flavored almonds. Productivity.
Thinking about: We were crazy productive this weekend. Have almost everything out of the basement except the girl's beds and clothes. Isaac and Liam's room is done except the closet, same for George's. Linen closet. Got extraneous furniture out. It is looking like we will actually be leaving.
All the pieces of the puzzle are coming together. Our buyer's loan went through, as has ours- we are just dotting our i's and crossing our t's. Colorado house has been inspected and nothing major there. The inspection here was fine. Just need to get the appraisal on the Colorado house and that is the last thing besides actual moving. Whew. Getting there.
Clothing myself in: Brown shirt, jeans, black cardigan.
Life with kids: I was reading back to a year, year and a half ago on my blog the other day. I spent a lot of time and energy lamenting George's early wake-ups. Trying to rack my brain to make rhyme or reason of it. Alas, even though it still bothers me that he does it, I have kind of just accepted it for what it is. He grows well, eats well, plays well, is very intelligent. Some days it seems like parenting is just one big lesson in letting it go.
All the other kids are great. Learning so much. We had hit a rough patch with homeschooling in November/ December but we are back on track. It certainly isn't easy. But I love getting to be with the kids every day. And I love the quiet times (like right now, actually). George is napping, Liam is reading, Isabelle is writing a story for fun, and Isaac is helping Adelle with her videos for her lessons. Peace reigns, for this moment, in the Marney house.
Bringing me joy: Quiet. Boxes stacking up in my garage. The unburdening of getting rid of stuff we don't need. Wasabi flavored almonds. Productivity.
Thinking about: We were crazy productive this weekend. Have almost everything out of the basement except the girl's beds and clothes. Isaac and Liam's room is done except the closet, same for George's. Linen closet. Got extraneous furniture out. It is looking like we will actually be leaving.
All the pieces of the puzzle are coming together. Our buyer's loan went through, as has ours- we are just dotting our i's and crossing our t's. Colorado house has been inspected and nothing major there. The inspection here was fine. Just need to get the appraisal on the Colorado house and that is the last thing besides actual moving. Whew. Getting there.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Moving and stuff
Colorado. We have a history.
We actually went to Colorado Springs on our honeymoon and stayed in this cute little bed and breakfast. We walked through Garden of the Gods, went to Seven Falls, went up Pikes Peak.
A couple years later, when Issy was 1 and I was pregnant with Isaac, we visited the Springs again. It was pretty rainy/ cloudy the first couple of days, so we drove up the highway into the mountains. We reached Woodland Park "The Town Above the Clouds" and indeed it was. We talked/ dreamed about living there someday. Joe started looking for a job in Colorado. We visited Pikes Peak again when Issy was 3, Isaac was 1 and I was pregnant with Liam. It was our go-to place.
As life would have it, when he was searching for a job in Colorado, he came upon a listing for a job in Jackson, WY. We ended up on the other side of the mountain in Teton Valley for a couple of years and really fell in love with the area. It was this amazing gem we didn't even know existed. When we moved back to Wichita in 2009, I missed Teton Valley before we even left. We talked so much, especially in those early months about moving back there. We just couldn't get the mountains out of our heads.
We visited Colorado a couple of times over those years when we lived in Kansas. It was like an old friend- the kind where even when you've been away, you just pick back up where you left off.
A couple years later, he took a job here in Wisconsin and we expected that would be it for the moving. It has been such a welcoming community to us- the kids have made friends, we have found our niche here. But the mountains were still calling.
There was more flexibility with Joe's job and working remotely, so we set about finding a place in the mountains. It was originally our intention to move back to Teton Valley. But in the interest of not having more options, we looked at houses in Colorado, Wyoming and Idaho in August. As it turned out, our first choice house ended up being in Colorado. But our first choice house was a no back then. Then our second and third choices houses also ended up being a no.
And finally, once this house went under a (seemingly) solid contract, we found out that the Colorado house that was a no in August was a yes right now. I am left amazed at the timing of things.
That said, I would be lying to say that I have not had slight pangs of disappointment at not moving to Teton Valley. But truly only slight. When we got the contract on this house, and the door on the Teton Valley house had closed and there were no other good options there, I had somewhat resigned myself that we just weren't supposed to be there. I am actually happy that we had the opportunity to be under contract on that house- it didn't happen because there was somewhere else that we need to be, not because we didn't try. So even though I will miss living there, I am at peace with it.
With each day that passes, it is becoming more and more real to me- this is actually happening. The realization is both good and bad. It makes me feel overwhelmed at all the things I have to do (I hate packing/ moving! but I don't mind decluttering.). It makes me feel excited at the things to come. It makes me nervous about something going awry in the process. It makes me sad that I am actually going to have to say good-bye (and the kids will have to say good-bye) to the people we have come to know and love here. Also, what if I hate living there? I mean, I don't think I will, but you know. Cold feet. Also, part of the appeal of moving back to Teton Valley was that we didn't have to start from scratch. Even though we have visited Colorado many times, this is a fresh start, community-wise. But mountains again!
So yes, I am all over the place. One day at a time. Everything will work out the way it should.
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Journal: Colorado
Outside my window: It's -17. Yes, that is correct. -17. The sky looks clear though and the sun is started to break through the trees. Ah, Wisconsin.
Clothing myself in: Joe's robe, lavender cabled hat, exercise leggings and a long sleeved T. I do actually wear other things than this, I promise.
Life with kids: Trying to set up a few playdates and visits with their friends before we leave next month. I also made lessons plans with the virtual school so that we will be finishing up our semester shortly before we leave, so that is going to work out pretty perfectly as far as tying up loose ends. Now that it is actually on us, there is excitement mixed with a little bit of sadness from leaving. I am so excited to take them on this adventure.
Crafting: Finished the scarf, but did not take a picture. It was lovely :)
Bringing me joy: House papers that are finally signed! Decluttering our laundry room(again)- ouch, it's painful to let go but good, impromptu dinner dates with my hubby, talking about house plans.
Thinking about: Right after my last post, we had decided to make an offer on the Colorado house and as we were drawing up the papers, they dropped the price. Like, a considerable amount. Our agents were able to collaborate on an offer that the sellers would sign. And it took days and days and days because of internet access, one of the sellers working nights, and having the sellers separate locations. But they did finally sign it.
Now onto appraisal, inspection, and coordinating moving efforts. There are so many moving parts to this process, it will be a wonder if we are able to pull this off without kinks.
I am in a little bit of disbelief/ tad bit of denial that this is actually happening. Two weeks ago, moving was not on my radar. And now we are leaving in less than six weeks. I suppose as the time gets closer and everything starts to come together, it'll get more real. Colorado. Mountains. Whoa.
Clothing myself in: Joe's robe, lavender cabled hat, exercise leggings and a long sleeved T. I do actually wear other things than this, I promise.
Life with kids: Trying to set up a few playdates and visits with their friends before we leave next month. I also made lessons plans with the virtual school so that we will be finishing up our semester shortly before we leave, so that is going to work out pretty perfectly as far as tying up loose ends. Now that it is actually on us, there is excitement mixed with a little bit of sadness from leaving. I am so excited to take them on this adventure.
Crafting: Finished the scarf, but did not take a picture. It was lovely :)
Bringing me joy: House papers that are finally signed! Decluttering our laundry room(again)- ouch, it's painful to let go but good, impromptu dinner dates with my hubby, talking about house plans.
Thinking about: Right after my last post, we had decided to make an offer on the Colorado house and as we were drawing up the papers, they dropped the price. Like, a considerable amount. Our agents were able to collaborate on an offer that the sellers would sign. And it took days and days and days because of internet access, one of the sellers working nights, and having the sellers separate locations. But they did finally sign it.
Now onto appraisal, inspection, and coordinating moving efforts. There are so many moving parts to this process, it will be a wonder if we are able to pull this off without kinks.
I am in a little bit of disbelief/ tad bit of denial that this is actually happening. Two weeks ago, moving was not on my radar. And now we are leaving in less than six weeks. I suppose as the time gets closer and everything starts to come together, it'll get more real. Colorado. Mountains. Whoa.
Saturday, January 3, 2015
Journal: Good house news
Out my window: Well, it's 6 in the morning and still dark, but when I walked by the window, I saw a skiff of snow on the ground. It's been a couple weeks since we had any, so it's a welcome change. I missed having lots of fluffy, white snow on the ground for Christmas!
Clothing myself in: exercise tights, long sleeved T, fleece sweatshirt, Joe's robe, my lavender cabled hat.
Life with the kids: My sister Brenda, her husband, my nephew and his girlfriend were in town this week, so the kids got to hang out with relatives a bit, which is always nice. George has been exasperatingly Georgeish this week. We are back to lessons this upcoming week, so I would reaaaally appreciate it if he would be a little more chill. A Mama can dream, can't she?
Adelle has been talking for a couple of months about how she wanted to get her ears pierced. She was very insistent about it and was willing to take steps to show me that she could handle it. She got a Claire's gift certificate for Christmas and we took her on New Year's to get them done. She was amazing. Didn't even flinch. She bounced out of there saying in her sweet little girl voice, "I am so happy!" 5 is such a magical age.
Crafting: Nope. Really need to work on the scarf so I get send it with Joe to IL this week. And really need to do the sleeves on his sweater so that he can actually wear it.
Bringing me joy: The kid's excitement at our visitors. Getting to spend time with Brenda and Tim- I love how close I am with my sisters. I hope my kids are close as adults. Oh! And my little brother-in-law got engaged on New Year's Eve. I am getting a new sister-in-law- so exciting!! Seeing Adelle be such a big girl. I love joking around with Issy. Forward movement in the house direction!
Thinking about: Our visitors were out skiing on Tuesday, so I exercised a bit, and then hopped into the shower. The phone was ringing when I was finishing up, but I didn't recognize the number and figured I could call back if it was important. Joe called me a few minutes later to let me know that our realtor was trying to get a hold of me, so I called her back. She apologized for the short notice, but asked if she could show the house in 30 or 45 minutes. I rushed out to the kids, asked them for complete help and compliance and we got to work! Luckily, I had cleaned over the weekend, so it wasn't completely tragic, but it wasn't quite as nice as I usually make it for a showing.
I got a call that afternoon from our agent with their offer. They have no house to sell, they are well-qualified. So that was that. Close date of February 20th. Just praying that appraisal/ inspection/ them getting their loan goes smoothly. I am not counting my chickens since our house-selling experience has been less than clear-cut thus far. I know that I should be more motivated since closing is 7 weeks from yesterday but I just keep thinking that this is going to get derailed just like the other times, even though there is no evidence that will happen.
We are still trying to decide what comes next. Our first choice house from our visit, in CO, is still available. So we will see.
Clothing myself in: exercise tights, long sleeved T, fleece sweatshirt, Joe's robe, my lavender cabled hat.
Life with the kids: My sister Brenda, her husband, my nephew and his girlfriend were in town this week, so the kids got to hang out with relatives a bit, which is always nice. George has been exasperatingly Georgeish this week. We are back to lessons this upcoming week, so I would reaaaally appreciate it if he would be a little more chill. A Mama can dream, can't she?
Adelle has been talking for a couple of months about how she wanted to get her ears pierced. She was very insistent about it and was willing to take steps to show me that she could handle it. She got a Claire's gift certificate for Christmas and we took her on New Year's to get them done. She was amazing. Didn't even flinch. She bounced out of there saying in her sweet little girl voice, "I am so happy!" 5 is such a magical age.
Crafting: Nope. Really need to work on the scarf so I get send it with Joe to IL this week. And really need to do the sleeves on his sweater so that he can actually wear it.
Bringing me joy: The kid's excitement at our visitors. Getting to spend time with Brenda and Tim- I love how close I am with my sisters. I hope my kids are close as adults. Oh! And my little brother-in-law got engaged on New Year's Eve. I am getting a new sister-in-law- so exciting!! Seeing Adelle be such a big girl. I love joking around with Issy. Forward movement in the house direction!
Thinking about: Our visitors were out skiing on Tuesday, so I exercised a bit, and then hopped into the shower. The phone was ringing when I was finishing up, but I didn't recognize the number and figured I could call back if it was important. Joe called me a few minutes later to let me know that our realtor was trying to get a hold of me, so I called her back. She apologized for the short notice, but asked if she could show the house in 30 or 45 minutes. I rushed out to the kids, asked them for complete help and compliance and we got to work! Luckily, I had cleaned over the weekend, so it wasn't completely tragic, but it wasn't quite as nice as I usually make it for a showing.
I got a call that afternoon from our agent with their offer. They have no house to sell, they are well-qualified. So that was that. Close date of February 20th. Just praying that appraisal/ inspection/ them getting their loan goes smoothly. I am not counting my chickens since our house-selling experience has been less than clear-cut thus far. I know that I should be more motivated since closing is 7 weeks from yesterday but I just keep thinking that this is going to get derailed just like the other times, even though there is no evidence that will happen.
We are still trying to decide what comes next. Our first choice house from our visit, in CO, is still available. So we will see.
Saturday, December 27, 2014
Journal:Too long
Out my window: 27 and dark and dreary. Most of the snow melted during a warm up before Christmas so it isn't even white and pretty outside. My only hope is that this means a short winter and long spring. So that we can move in nice weather (please, God?).
Clothing myself in: Jeans, long sleeved T, short sleeved sweater on top of that and a long sleeved cardigan on top of that. Lol. Brrrrrr.
Life with kids: We had a "come to Jesus" talk with the big boys last week about school and how I needed their cooperation or else we couldn't do this. Granted, there were only a couple of school days left before our break, but they seemed to take it to heart. I am hoping that they will be refreshed after our break and ready to buckle down again. I don't need perfection. Just cooperation.
The girls have been delightful lately. Really, I think the kids tag team on who is going to be the squeaky wheel. I guess it's better than them all going wild at the same time?
George is doing fairly well lately. I am trying to get down on his level more when he is acting up and it is very effective, but it's difficult when I am trying to do other things. Oh well, no one said this parenting gig was going to be easy.
In the kitchen: We had a ham and au gratin potatoes for Christmas dinner, bierocks for Christmas Eve. I see some less rich foods in our future.
Crafting: Done with the body and collar on Joe's sweater. Starting to work on the arms. I was making a hat for a friend like my lavender cabled hat, but I used needles that were 3 sizes too small on accident. So Adelle got a new cabled hat. And I started knitting a scarf for my friend using the same yarn I knit Mama Marney a blanket with instead.
Bringing me joy: Peaceful days where my boys finish their work in a timely manner. Sunshiney walks with my babies. A quiet Christmas day. Quiet evenings with Joe, watching The Office for the 8th time.
Thinking about: Well, nothing much on the house front. We extended the contract on our house here, though the couple still has not sold their own home. Just sitting tight here. It is a little uncomfortable to be on the brink of big change but not knowing how or when it is going to play out.
It has been a while since I've blogged. I started a couple of times, but it's just been difficult to see through. I think I have the winter blues. As the aforementioned "come to Jesus" talk with the boys might have indicated, we hit a homeschooling snag and that has made me an unpleasant, grumpy person. I don't know if it's them, me or both. Probably both. They obviously are in control of their behavior, but I am in control of how I react to them and I haven't been doing a stellar job of keeping my cool. And then I devolve into a self-loathing, I am terrible mom and I can't handle this spiral. Joe led the talk and they really responded to him. Which really drives home to me how much parenting is a team effort.
I have no pictures to share cause I have been a bit of a picture failure lately. Buuuuut, Joe started a photo-a-day blog, so if you want pictures you can go on over there. AND! he committed to it for the next year!
Clothing myself in: Jeans, long sleeved T, short sleeved sweater on top of that and a long sleeved cardigan on top of that. Lol. Brrrrrr.
Life with kids: We had a "come to Jesus" talk with the big boys last week about school and how I needed their cooperation or else we couldn't do this. Granted, there were only a couple of school days left before our break, but they seemed to take it to heart. I am hoping that they will be refreshed after our break and ready to buckle down again. I don't need perfection. Just cooperation.
The girls have been delightful lately. Really, I think the kids tag team on who is going to be the squeaky wheel. I guess it's better than them all going wild at the same time?
George is doing fairly well lately. I am trying to get down on his level more when he is acting up and it is very effective, but it's difficult when I am trying to do other things. Oh well, no one said this parenting gig was going to be easy.
In the kitchen: We had a ham and au gratin potatoes for Christmas dinner, bierocks for Christmas Eve. I see some less rich foods in our future.
Crafting: Done with the body and collar on Joe's sweater. Starting to work on the arms. I was making a hat for a friend like my lavender cabled hat, but I used needles that were 3 sizes too small on accident. So Adelle got a new cabled hat. And I started knitting a scarf for my friend using the same yarn I knit Mama Marney a blanket with instead.
Bringing me joy: Peaceful days where my boys finish their work in a timely manner. Sunshiney walks with my babies. A quiet Christmas day. Quiet evenings with Joe, watching The Office for the 8th time.
Thinking about: Well, nothing much on the house front. We extended the contract on our house here, though the couple still has not sold their own home. Just sitting tight here. It is a little uncomfortable to be on the brink of big change but not knowing how or when it is going to play out.
It has been a while since I've blogged. I started a couple of times, but it's just been difficult to see through. I think I have the winter blues. As the aforementioned "come to Jesus" talk with the boys might have indicated, we hit a homeschooling snag and that has made me an unpleasant, grumpy person. I don't know if it's them, me or both. Probably both. They obviously are in control of their behavior, but I am in control of how I react to them and I haven't been doing a stellar job of keeping my cool. And then I devolve into a self-loathing, I am terrible mom and I can't handle this spiral. Joe led the talk and they really responded to him. Which really drives home to me how much parenting is a team effort.
I have no pictures to share cause I have been a bit of a picture failure lately. Buuuuut, Joe started a photo-a-day blog, so if you want pictures you can go on over there. AND! he committed to it for the next year!
Monday, November 17, 2014
Journal: This, that, the other
Out my window: White and grey. 12 degrees. And it's only mid- November. Going to need to find a good Vitamin D supplement this winter :P
Clothing myself in: Black leggings, blue long sleeved shirt, grey fleece. MukLuk slippers that I've had for a year and are the best thing ever to happen to my feet.
Kiddos: Isabelle is going on a Schoenstatt retreat this weekend at the same place she went to summer camp. She is going with her two friends and she is very excited. It's from Friday night until Sunday afternoon. She is such a lovely girl and a big help to me, I am glad that she is able to get out and do something special.
Isaac and I have been further prioritizing his school and learning. It's been tough at times. There is just so much information. Only certain assignments are turned in, so we are working on focusing on those. His instructor and I met about ways to make his workload more manageable. I would rather him focus on a few assignments and really do them well than rush through a ton of assignments to get them done.
My Liam has such a thirsty mind. Even when his lessons are done, he reads. He reads everything. He loves maps. He loves his children's dictionary. We've been digging into his first communion prep and he has such good (and hard!) questions. I love him.
Adelle is really loving sight words. I think they give her a feeling of accomplishment. Things aren't quite "clicking" yet with letters and sounds but I'm not worried. She isn't even five and a half. I remember Issy was probably around (past?) six when it clicked and then she took off. I just love how proud she is when she reads her sight words- a real boost.
And my George is a never-ending bundle of fun. He has actually be very good (for him) at Mass the last few weeks. Maybe things are finally settling down for him. Shhhhh. Pretend I didn't just say that, okay?
In the kitchen: I have declared every Friday (or at least every Friday until it starts to catch up with my waistline) Cookie Friday. So far, we have had pumpkin butterscotch chip, oatmeal chocolate chip and mint chocolate chip. Joe also went on a bread baking binge this weekend and we ended up with two pumpkin and three banana breads. We also had cauliflower bacon soup and homemade BBQ chicken and sausage/onion pizza. It has been good eats in our house the last few days.
Crafting: I was getting tired of knitting the same four round pattern for inch after inch on Joe's sweater, so I took a break and made myself a hat. Love it. Now, I have a renewed interest in Joe's sweater. Only 3 1/2 more inches until I divide for the sleeves. I CAN DO IT! He requested it be done in time for Christmas. We will see.
Thinking about: Ah, never a dull moment in the house saga. So, the house showing on the day of my last blog post went well. They liked the house. They decided not to put in an offer, however, because they found out that the people with the current contract on it are friends of their's and they would be "bumping" them. Sigh. I couldn't even make this stuff up if I wanted to.
We also found out the same day that the owner of the Idaho house was taking his listing off the market. Because we will not be selling this house by December 15th and therefore unable to buy that one, we cancelled the contract. So that house is done. I am trying to look at it positively that there is something else out there, but it is mostly just disappointing.
But we are here, alive and well. Mostly loving homeschooling :) Excited for the holiday season.
Clothing myself in: Black leggings, blue long sleeved shirt, grey fleece. MukLuk slippers that I've had for a year and are the best thing ever to happen to my feet.
Kiddos: Isabelle is going on a Schoenstatt retreat this weekend at the same place she went to summer camp. She is going with her two friends and she is very excited. It's from Friday night until Sunday afternoon. She is such a lovely girl and a big help to me, I am glad that she is able to get out and do something special.
Isaac and I have been further prioritizing his school and learning. It's been tough at times. There is just so much information. Only certain assignments are turned in, so we are working on focusing on those. His instructor and I met about ways to make his workload more manageable. I would rather him focus on a few assignments and really do them well than rush through a ton of assignments to get them done.
My Liam has such a thirsty mind. Even when his lessons are done, he reads. He reads everything. He loves maps. He loves his children's dictionary. We've been digging into his first communion prep and he has such good (and hard!) questions. I love him.
Adelle is really loving sight words. I think they give her a feeling of accomplishment. Things aren't quite "clicking" yet with letters and sounds but I'm not worried. She isn't even five and a half. I remember Issy was probably around (past?) six when it clicked and then she took off. I just love how proud she is when she reads her sight words- a real boost.
And my George is a never-ending bundle of fun. He has actually be very good (for him) at Mass the last few weeks. Maybe things are finally settling down for him. Shhhhh. Pretend I didn't just say that, okay?
In the kitchen: I have declared every Friday (or at least every Friday until it starts to catch up with my waistline) Cookie Friday. So far, we have had pumpkin butterscotch chip, oatmeal chocolate chip and mint chocolate chip. Joe also went on a bread baking binge this weekend and we ended up with two pumpkin and three banana breads. We also had cauliflower bacon soup and homemade BBQ chicken and sausage/onion pizza. It has been good eats in our house the last few days.
Crafting: I was getting tired of knitting the same four round pattern for inch after inch on Joe's sweater, so I took a break and made myself a hat. Love it. Now, I have a renewed interest in Joe's sweater. Only 3 1/2 more inches until I divide for the sleeves. I CAN DO IT! He requested it be done in time for Christmas. We will see.
Thinking about: Ah, never a dull moment in the house saga. So, the house showing on the day of my last blog post went well. They liked the house. They decided not to put in an offer, however, because they found out that the people with the current contract on it are friends of their's and they would be "bumping" them. Sigh. I couldn't even make this stuff up if I wanted to.
We also found out the same day that the owner of the Idaho house was taking his listing off the market. Because we will not be selling this house by December 15th and therefore unable to buy that one, we cancelled the contract. So that house is done. I am trying to look at it positively that there is something else out there, but it is mostly just disappointing.
But we are here, alive and well. Mostly loving homeschooling :) Excited for the holiday season.
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Journal: Short days, longer nights
Outside my window: Dark, mid- 30's. It is supposed to snow on Monday, perhaps several inches. Honestly, I was so busy at my day job and the restaurant, I am not really sure where summer went, so I can't say I am really ready for winter. It is really that time already?
Clothing myself in: Jeans, tennis shoes that are 10 years old, black Word on Fire shirt and a grey hoodie. Fancy schmancy.
Around the house: Showing today, so it is spotless. When we thought we were going to be moving at the end of September, we had Adelle staying in Issy's room in the basement and we were putting boxes in her room upstairs. Moving didn't happen, so we transitioned Adelle into the other room in the basement, right across the hall from Issy. It has been going fairly well, actually. They read together until Adelle's bedtime, I help tuck her in and Issy gets to go to her room and keep the light on and read or whatever for a while longer. And doesn't have to sleep with the little bed hog.
Since we didn't go much further on our packing, we moved the boxes out of the upstairs bedroom and put the desktop computer in it. We do a lot of our schooling at the kitchen table, but we also have "Posh Pink" room (named after the paint color) to do lessons in as well. Our house has an abundance of space, for sure.
Kiddos: Everyone is doing well in school. Isabelle and Liam have had the easiest time adjusting. Issy's school is very self-directed. I am there to touch base with, but she organizes her time and keeps track of her assignments. I keep an eye on her grades and answer any questions she has on lessons.
Isaac's has been more challenging. Isabelle's lessons are online, but she also has a book copy of her text. Isaac's lessons are all online and it is a. pain. in. the. butt. If he is doing a review and he wants to recap something, he has to click through old lessons. It has caused tears more than once. He is a hard worker, though, so he's hanging in there. Math is his favorite subject.
Liam's lessons are a short video and then either a project or worksheet. He is doing very well, though sometimes his mind wanders.
Adelle is making progress slowly but surely. I have to remind myself that this is the first time we have done formal lessons and she isn't the other kids. She recognizes a few letters and knows a few letter sounds. We will get there :)
And George is George- ever rambunctious, ever challenging, ever adorable and charming. Passionate. Great smile.
In the kitchen: Not really sure- need to make a menu. This week we had tomato basil and parmesan soup with rosemary bread, beef stew, refried bean burritos.
Crafting: Working on Joe's sweater. Finished knitting a hat I had started a year ago and gave it to my niece Eleanor, knit a cream colored cabled hat for myself but decided it would look better on my niece Felicia. Knit Joe a hat. It's that time of year.
Bringing me joy: a tidy house- a joy I wouldn't have known on a regular basis if we hadn't put our house on the market. Laundry that is washed, folded and put away all in one day. A thoughtful husband who makes me breakfast every morning and gets up with the toddler on his early mornings. Spending time with my oldest daughter. Kissing Adelle's sweet little nose. Seeing Isaac overcome his frustration to accomplish something. Liam reading Harry Potter to me. The way George gesticulates when he talks.
Thinking about: Oh, lots of things. We accepted an offer with a contingency from third couple that was interested. They still need to sell there house, so we will see. Our contract on our Idaho house is through December 15th, but it seems dubious that anything will happen by then. We did have a showing today, to a couple that is moving into the area, so I suppose we will see how it went. If nothing else, the house looks great.
The kids and I went to Kansas for 10 days in October. It was pretty great- no one got sick. Lots of time with family and friends.
Barring anything exciting happening with the house we are settling into life and school up here in Wisconsin for now. Lots of baking and learning and reading and Lego playing.
Clothing myself in: Jeans, tennis shoes that are 10 years old, black Word on Fire shirt and a grey hoodie. Fancy schmancy.
Around the house: Showing today, so it is spotless. When we thought we were going to be moving at the end of September, we had Adelle staying in Issy's room in the basement and we were putting boxes in her room upstairs. Moving didn't happen, so we transitioned Adelle into the other room in the basement, right across the hall from Issy. It has been going fairly well, actually. They read together until Adelle's bedtime, I help tuck her in and Issy gets to go to her room and keep the light on and read or whatever for a while longer. And doesn't have to sleep with the little bed hog.
Since we didn't go much further on our packing, we moved the boxes out of the upstairs bedroom and put the desktop computer in it. We do a lot of our schooling at the kitchen table, but we also have "Posh Pink" room (named after the paint color) to do lessons in as well. Our house has an abundance of space, for sure.
Kiddos: Everyone is doing well in school. Isabelle and Liam have had the easiest time adjusting. Issy's school is very self-directed. I am there to touch base with, but she organizes her time and keeps track of her assignments. I keep an eye on her grades and answer any questions she has on lessons.
Isaac's has been more challenging. Isabelle's lessons are online, but she also has a book copy of her text. Isaac's lessons are all online and it is a. pain. in. the. butt. If he is doing a review and he wants to recap something, he has to click through old lessons. It has caused tears more than once. He is a hard worker, though, so he's hanging in there. Math is his favorite subject.
Liam's lessons are a short video and then either a project or worksheet. He is doing very well, though sometimes his mind wanders.
Adelle is making progress slowly but surely. I have to remind myself that this is the first time we have done formal lessons and she isn't the other kids. She recognizes a few letters and knows a few letter sounds. We will get there :)
And George is George- ever rambunctious, ever challenging, ever adorable and charming. Passionate. Great smile.
In the kitchen: Not really sure- need to make a menu. This week we had tomato basil and parmesan soup with rosemary bread, beef stew, refried bean burritos.
Crafting: Working on Joe's sweater. Finished knitting a hat I had started a year ago and gave it to my niece Eleanor, knit a cream colored cabled hat for myself but decided it would look better on my niece Felicia. Knit Joe a hat. It's that time of year.
Bringing me joy: a tidy house- a joy I wouldn't have known on a regular basis if we hadn't put our house on the market. Laundry that is washed, folded and put away all in one day. A thoughtful husband who makes me breakfast every morning and gets up with the toddler on his early mornings. Spending time with my oldest daughter. Kissing Adelle's sweet little nose. Seeing Isaac overcome his frustration to accomplish something. Liam reading Harry Potter to me. The way George gesticulates when he talks.
Thinking about: Oh, lots of things. We accepted an offer with a contingency from third couple that was interested. They still need to sell there house, so we will see. Our contract on our Idaho house is through December 15th, but it seems dubious that anything will happen by then. We did have a showing today, to a couple that is moving into the area, so I suppose we will see how it went. If nothing else, the house looks great.
The kids and I went to Kansas for 10 days in October. It was pretty great- no one got sick. Lots of time with family and friends.
Barring anything exciting happening with the house we are settling into life and school up here in Wisconsin for now. Lots of baking and learning and reading and Lego playing.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Journal: End of September already?!
Out my window: 51 and cloudy. It's been lovely and unseasonably warm, so chilly temps are a bit of a shock. Feels like fall, though, so I won't complain.
Clothing myself in: New skinny jeans, periwinkle lace tank, plaid button-down, new cardigan sweater. Mom and Dad Marney sent a maurice's gift certificate for my birthday, so the new things were part of my gift. I am pretty excited- I am down two jeans sizes. I haven't weighed this much since forever ago. Now I just need to remember to maintain my health and fitness over the long winter. It's hard. I try to hibernate by stuffing myself with sugary baked things. Hopefully the pretty new jeans will be a reminder to not overindulge.
Around the house: It's fairly tidy. We had an open house on Saturday (that no one attended) so it was spotless. Also, when we thought we were moving into a smaller house at the end of this month, we sold a bunch of furniture, so the house is sparsely furnished. It has been fine, but a little weird. Downsizing has really shown me how much we don't strictly need. And it feels good to have less things to be attached to.
Kiddos: George has been waking up at 5:45ish again. Gah. I thought we were over that. He had a good several month stretch where he woke up after 6, sometimes considerably. I would like to go back to that, please?
Settling into school, getting more comfortable with the curriculum and pacing. I love being home with them again and getting to be part of their day to day.
As I was typing, Liam came into the house screaming about bees and shortly after, Isaac followed with George. Liam and George apparently stepped in a ground bee's nest. Isaac sent Liam into the house, brushed some of the bees off George and brought him. Liam got two stings, George got four. Isaac's cool head saved the day. Everyone seems okay and the swelling is going down. That gave me quite the fright.
In the kitchen: I made some amazing Italian sausage soup and rosemary herb bread yesterday. Pumpkin pancakes later this week, brunswick stew. Good eating around here. Got the new oven (ours died in July and we hemmed and hawed about whether to buy a new one or fix it and ultimately decided to just buy one) and it has been amazing. Joe made me pumpkin chocolate chip brownies for my birthday. Yum.
Crafting: In order to not drive myself crazy with anxiety at the fact that our house hasn't sold, I am putting that into creative energy. I told Joe I missed knitting and he suggested starting something. I bought some Wool of the Andes Bulky in Wallaby to knit him a Mr Darcy sweater. He suggested that while I was waiting for the yarn, I could knit him a camera strap cover, so I have been doing that and it's almost done.
Bringing me joy: Sunshine in my windows, apple pumpkin scented candle, autumn apple coffee, purpley-red leaves, fire on a cool autumn evening with the hubby, an amazingly clean house for my birthday, surprise birthday flowers. How considerate my husband is- he is a really amazing man.
Thinking about: Being grateful and living in the present while trying to keep an eye on the future. Our house is for sale and it is so easy to get caught up in planning for when that happens to forgot about living in this moment. I find transition and uncertainty uncomfortable, but there is grace in this growing time.
Even though our house here is not under contract, Joe spoke with our Idaho realtor and he said that the buyer wants to extend the contract. So for as long as he doesn't get other offers, we still have a chance at that house. I have confidence that this house will sell eventually, it is just a matter of when. But fretting about it doesn't help, so I am just going to trust that things will happen as they need to.
Clothing myself in: New skinny jeans, periwinkle lace tank, plaid button-down, new cardigan sweater. Mom and Dad Marney sent a maurice's gift certificate for my birthday, so the new things were part of my gift. I am pretty excited- I am down two jeans sizes. I haven't weighed this much since forever ago. Now I just need to remember to maintain my health and fitness over the long winter. It's hard. I try to hibernate by stuffing myself with sugary baked things. Hopefully the pretty new jeans will be a reminder to not overindulge.
Around the house: It's fairly tidy. We had an open house on Saturday (that no one attended) so it was spotless. Also, when we thought we were moving into a smaller house at the end of this month, we sold a bunch of furniture, so the house is sparsely furnished. It has been fine, but a little weird. Downsizing has really shown me how much we don't strictly need. And it feels good to have less things to be attached to.
Kiddos: George has been waking up at 5:45ish again. Gah. I thought we were over that. He had a good several month stretch where he woke up after 6, sometimes considerably. I would like to go back to that, please?
Settling into school, getting more comfortable with the curriculum and pacing. I love being home with them again and getting to be part of their day to day.
As I was typing, Liam came into the house screaming about bees and shortly after, Isaac followed with George. Liam and George apparently stepped in a ground bee's nest. Isaac sent Liam into the house, brushed some of the bees off George and brought him. Liam got two stings, George got four. Isaac's cool head saved the day. Everyone seems okay and the swelling is going down. That gave me quite the fright.
In the kitchen: I made some amazing Italian sausage soup and rosemary herb bread yesterday. Pumpkin pancakes later this week, brunswick stew. Good eating around here. Got the new oven (ours died in July and we hemmed and hawed about whether to buy a new one or fix it and ultimately decided to just buy one) and it has been amazing. Joe made me pumpkin chocolate chip brownies for my birthday. Yum.
Crafting: In order to not drive myself crazy with anxiety at the fact that our house hasn't sold, I am putting that into creative energy. I told Joe I missed knitting and he suggested starting something. I bought some Wool of the Andes Bulky in Wallaby to knit him a Mr Darcy sweater. He suggested that while I was waiting for the yarn, I could knit him a camera strap cover, so I have been doing that and it's almost done.
Bringing me joy: Sunshine in my windows, apple pumpkin scented candle, autumn apple coffee, purpley-red leaves, fire on a cool autumn evening with the hubby, an amazingly clean house for my birthday, surprise birthday flowers. How considerate my husband is- he is a really amazing man.
Thinking about: Being grateful and living in the present while trying to keep an eye on the future. Our house is for sale and it is so easy to get caught up in planning for when that happens to forgot about living in this moment. I find transition and uncertainty uncomfortable, but there is grace in this growing time.
Even though our house here is not under contract, Joe spoke with our Idaho realtor and he said that the buyer wants to extend the contract. So for as long as he doesn't get other offers, we still have a chance at that house. I have confidence that this house will sell eventually, it is just a matter of when. But fretting about it doesn't help, so I am just going to trust that things will happen as they need to.
Thursday, September 25, 2014
School and houses....
I have started or thought about starting a blog post several times. But sometimes my brain gets tired of thinking and processing so I just didn't.
So hi! I am alive. Things have changed completely since my last post.
Let's see, some non-house things: we started our homeschooling year. Issy is in 6th grade, Isaac is in 4th, Liam is in 2nd and Adelle is in Kindergarten. We are enrolled in a virtual school through another school district and so far, so good, for the most part. It is obviously an adjustment. Getting used to the curriculum, getting used to each child's learning style, strengths and weaknesses. Managing time well.
The blessing of being enrolled in a virtual school is that there is accountability, the materials are provided and I don't have to worry about not "doing enough". The con is that it is a fair amount of work to get through- it is very "school at home". It is fine for the older three since they are used to it, though.
I love having the kids together again. I love them being each other's. Seeing them interact, playing together, even fight. I miss my job, but I love being with them.
Life is not perfect. I get tired. George sometimes makes school difficult, the older kids sometimes huff at me (I love the eye-rolls) when I asked them to play with him so I can work with someone else. Schoolwork made one of my children cry in frustration yesterday. Sometimes Critter eats the puzzle pieces that are left on the floor. Markers get left out and George scribbles on couch cushions.
But it's still pretty great, overall.
Ah, the house situation. So, pretty much immediately after pushing "publish" on my last blog post, we got a counteroffer on the Wyoming house that was unworkable and it was made clear that they weren't willing to meet us on a price that would work for us. So no.
So we pursued a house in Idaho. And very shortly after our counter-counteroffer was accepted, we found out that the contract on this house was going to fall through because the buyer was having loan issues. Fortunately, there was another party interested. They went to the bank to get a bridge loan and we found out last Monday that they would also be unable to buy our house because of some financial issues. And the first people that put in an offer (with a contingency) were still interested but their house hasn't sold yet.
So to lay it out- under contract on a house in Idaho. Three interested parties but no one to actually buy this house.
To say that this was upsetting or stressful would be an understatement. I also feel, because this is a situation that we willingly choose, I have no room to complain or feel badly. I am trying to remind myself that we are here to do God's will, whatever we discern that to be. And if that means that now is not the time, it isn't the time.
We had a showing on Tuesday and are having an open house this Saturday. If we don't get any offers from that, there is a fairly good likelihood that we will lose the contract on the Idaho house. That is, obviously, disappointing. But if it isn't that house now, we will find something else when this house does indeed sell.
When we put this house on the market, we expected it would take a while to sell. It was surprising to get an offer (and then a second offer!) so quickly. I think the hardest part has been going back and forth on expectations. We thought it would take a while to sell, then we were supposed to be moving at the end of September, and now we are back to it taking a while.
So now, in order to keep our sanity, we are being hopeful but realistic in our expectations. We will embrace and enjoy life here now and be present in the moment until we are off on a new adventure.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Journal: Changing Gears
Out my window: Dark and 74. Humid. Stupid humidity- I just checked and the humidity level is literally 97%. It has been like this for a few days. Bleh- I am so over it!
Clothing myself in: Actually same navy blue shirt from last post. I've changed since last week, I promise. Black exercise pants. Fancy.
Around the house: Boxes. I mean, most of the stuff isn't in boxes, but about 20 boxes were packed this weekend and I have some clothes folded in baskets ready to be put in boxes when I get some of appropriate size. So that is exciting. And overwhelming.
Kiddos: George is doing excellent at potty training. It's pretty exciting. He still wears a diaper at night because he's a super nighttime wetter, but other than that, it's all good. We will see how he is with the move and everything, however.
They have been pretty great and helpful, at least this far, in our packing endeavors. Everyone is gearing up for the start of (virtual) school next week. That should be interesting!
Bringing me joy: Acceptance of God's will, even if it isn't what I would plan. All five kids playing nicely outside together. Getting to take the time to prepare meals again- or oversee the kids preparing the meals, they love to help. The knowledge that the mountains aren't too far off.
Thinking about: Well, we decided to put in an offer on a house in Colorado on Friday. Unfortunately, there was a glitch in the paperwork, so the contract had to be rewritten and we were going to submit it today. And in that time period, another offer was made on the house. So that was that. Admittedly, it is hard to switch gears. It was a great house, great location in the mountains and closer to Kansas. But we have prayed from the beginning that God would lead us to where we needed to go. And it seems that his answer was pretty firmly No in that regard. So we trust that there is something better for us.
So we are pursuing a house in Wyoming, which was a very solid second choice. We will see how it pans out. Trust!
Also thinking about homeschooling. I had, of course, lined up what we would do for homeschooling if we were in Colorado. Or if we were in Idaho. But I hadn't explored my homeschooling options for Wyoming as much. So now I am feeling a little overwhelmed and having to scramble to work that out. Again, trust!
Pictures to share:
Clothing myself in: Actually same navy blue shirt from last post. I've changed since last week, I promise. Black exercise pants. Fancy.
Around the house: Boxes. I mean, most of the stuff isn't in boxes, but about 20 boxes were packed this weekend and I have some clothes folded in baskets ready to be put in boxes when I get some of appropriate size. So that is exciting. And overwhelming.
Kiddos: George is doing excellent at potty training. It's pretty exciting. He still wears a diaper at night because he's a super nighttime wetter, but other than that, it's all good. We will see how he is with the move and everything, however.
They have been pretty great and helpful, at least this far, in our packing endeavors. Everyone is gearing up for the start of (virtual) school next week. That should be interesting!
Bringing me joy: Acceptance of God's will, even if it isn't what I would plan. All five kids playing nicely outside together. Getting to take the time to prepare meals again- or oversee the kids preparing the meals, they love to help. The knowledge that the mountains aren't too far off.
Thinking about: Well, we decided to put in an offer on a house in Colorado on Friday. Unfortunately, there was a glitch in the paperwork, so the contract had to be rewritten and we were going to submit it today. And in that time period, another offer was made on the house. So that was that. Admittedly, it is hard to switch gears. It was a great house, great location in the mountains and closer to Kansas. But we have prayed from the beginning that God would lead us to where we needed to go. And it seems that his answer was pretty firmly No in that regard. So we trust that there is something better for us.
So we are pursuing a house in Wyoming, which was a very solid second choice. We will see how it pans out. Trust!
Also thinking about homeschooling. I had, of course, lined up what we would do for homeschooling if we were in Colorado. Or if we were in Idaho. But I hadn't explored my homeschooling options for Wyoming as much. So now I am feeling a little overwhelmed and having to scramble to work that out. Again, trust!
Pictures to share:
Liam made this for his aquatic themed birthday party with his friends and cousins. He's such a fun kid.
Liam and his godparents
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