We're hearing a lot about White Privilege these days. I never really heard of it until probably a few years ago and never thought too much of it as I didn't feel privileged. But it's bubbled up and we've been having a lot of discussions at home with our boys. Wanting to help guide their thoughts and opinions into one that reflects Christ I've been thinking about it a lot and reading a lot about it and what it means to other people.
What I have determined is that privilege is something like grace. You don't earn it, it's given and you can't give it back. There are lots of privileges in this world. Here are some I have thought of and what they mean to me (currently), I am ever evolving my opinions on everything!
Male Privilege: men have it, women don't
What it means in the world for those who don't have it: women will always park under a lamppost, have keys and phone out with 911 at the ready in a "shady" location, they will check the back seat, lock the doors as soon as possible
What it means in my house: I am the first one to ask for a break when we carry a couch or dresser
Parents still married privilege: some kids have it, some don't
What it means in the world for those who don't have it: shuffling back and forth between houses, remembering which parent they will be with at a holiday or particular time, lack of consistency, and often lack of funds
What it means in my house: kids don't get away with Jack, we are a united front, ALL. THE. TIME.
Small Community Privilege: small towns have it, big towns don't
What it means in the world for those who don't have it: can feel alone, feel like no one has your back, you are one in many
What it means in my house: everyone in town knows us/their parents, everyone knows what car we/the kids drive, everyone knows the behavior we expect from our boys, we are held accountable by our community, our community supports us
Middle Class Privilege: most people in America have it, some don't
What it means in the world for those who don't have it: might not know where your next meal is coming from, won't have all the "things" that the other kids/people have
What it means in my house: we go on vacation as a family every year, kids and adults get spirit wear when they play a sport, they get to go on optional ($$) field trips with school, we get to go out to dinner once a month or so, we never have to worry if the utilities are being turned off
American Privilege: Americans have it, other people don't
What it means in the world for those who don't have it: not as many choices or freedoms, not a culturally diverse, etc.
What it means in my house: we honor those who served in the past to free us from oppressors, we honor those who serve us now to keep us from oppression and keep us safe, we can start a business, go to whatever church we want
White Privilege: white people have it, other people don't
What it means in the world for those who don't have it: get looked at second, second choice, feel/treated inferior
What it means in my house: I don't have an answer for this
My boys have all of the above! They are privileged for sure! But they didn't earn any of these things. We are quick to remind them they are in the Middle Class because Tim and I work hard and take on extra jobs and start businesses; they are fairly big fish in a small pond because we chose to raise them here, they are blessed their parents work hard at their marriage EVERY DAY to stay in love and together, and the other privileges they were born into and have no bearing on anything they did so they can't brag about it-it's how God saw a plan for their life so they better work it well.
Thus, my next line of thought becomes, when a group is not the same-meaning some have a privilege and some don't; what is our obligation to make everyone have the same privilege?
Can that happen? [I don't think so]
Should that happen? [This is what I am pondering]
Or did God give us all a different position in life for a purpose? Think of Queen Esther in Veggie Tales, as Cousin Mordecai said, Esther was Queen, "For such a time as this..."
Showing posts with label Life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Life. Show all posts
Friday, June 05, 2020
Friday, May 22, 2020
Power Grab
"There's no way to rule innocent men. The only power any government has is the power to crack down on criminals. Well, when there aren't enough criminals, one makes them. One declares so many things to be a crime that it becomes impossible for men to live without breaking laws."
— Ayn Rand, Atlas Shrugged.
I have been in a funk lately. I think it's non-interaction with other humans. I'm not good reaching out on the phone. I haven't seen many people in person. I think I need to read Atlas Shrugged again, it tends to center me on the business side of my personality. And bonus, I can't read it in a short period of time, it takes me awhile.
Maybe it's because Eli is graduating and we can't have the things that I've been looking forward to to commemorate this milestone. I need to jump in another Bible study too. And clean my house. And make dinner, always the making dinner!
Thursday, April 09, 2020
I haven't fallen off the face of the Earth
I haven't posted in what, five years? The boys are of an age that I'm not comfortable telling their stories, so I pretty well quit blogging. They are where most of my stories come from!
However, I need an outlet. I work for our business at home, so no co-workers. Well, with no school for the foreseeable future, I have all of the boys :) I started a facebook post but decided, I really just needed to get it out, not for people to see it. And since no one really reads this blog, it's fine here!
However, I need an outlet. I work for our business at home, so no co-workers. Well, with no school for the foreseeable future, I have all of the boys :) I started a facebook post but decided, I really just needed to get it out, not for people to see it. And since no one really reads this blog, it's fine here!
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Marriage
Legal does not equal moral.
Marriage is a moral institution between a man, a woman, and God.
The government decided to capitalize on this bountiful institution by offering "perks" for married individuals in the form of tax incentives. To be "married" then in the eyes of the law, you are required to provide certain information (sometimes even blood testing) and pay a fee and provide the government with your change of name status so they can further track your life. This created various revenues and jobs for the government. And over time, we began to forget that marriage is not a legal institution, but a moral one.
It is a moral one, let us not forget it.
The government is now redefining who is eligible to apply for a governmental marriage certificate, as is their right since they issue the certificates. This in NO WAY changes the moral institution of marriage. It is a moral one, don't forget.
Those folks who were gay last week and living together, can now legally get married in the eyes of the law. That's great for them that they now can have the "perks" of being married under the government. They can now file for divorce and be liable for the other person's bills just like us heterosexuals.
If I had known 14 years ago what I know now-I would have never applied for a marriage certificate. We would have had our same moral and religious ceremony and I would have changed my name to honor my husband and the commitment I made to him and to God. That would have been the end of it. We would have never let the government in on what is the most sacred institution we have.
***
Personally, what I don't like is calling a government certified "marriage" a marriage. I feel it is very different than the moral institution that we all think of when we hear the word marriage.
To me it's like calling The Beatles and The Backstreet Boys both "bands".
The Beatles wrote and performed their own music.
The Backstreet Boys sing songs other people wrote.
True they are both in the music business, but really, are they in the same category? Not so much.
Is one better than the other? That is a personal preference.
Should there be different words to describe the different kinds of "bands"? Definitely!
Let's get on the ball with finding a different word for the governmental certified marriage, or maybe a different word for the moral institution we call marriage. One of them needs a new word!
Marriage is a moral institution between a man, a woman, and God.
The government decided to capitalize on this bountiful institution by offering "perks" for married individuals in the form of tax incentives. To be "married" then in the eyes of the law, you are required to provide certain information (sometimes even blood testing) and pay a fee and provide the government with your change of name status so they can further track your life. This created various revenues and jobs for the government. And over time, we began to forget that marriage is not a legal institution, but a moral one.
It is a moral one, let us not forget it.
The government is now redefining who is eligible to apply for a governmental marriage certificate, as is their right since they issue the certificates. This in NO WAY changes the moral institution of marriage. It is a moral one, don't forget.
Those folks who were gay last week and living together, can now legally get married in the eyes of the law. That's great for them that they now can have the "perks" of being married under the government. They can now file for divorce and be liable for the other person's bills just like us heterosexuals.
If I had known 14 years ago what I know now-I would have never applied for a marriage certificate. We would have had our same moral and religious ceremony and I would have changed my name to honor my husband and the commitment I made to him and to God. That would have been the end of it. We would have never let the government in on what is the most sacred institution we have.
***
Personally, what I don't like is calling a government certified "marriage" a marriage. I feel it is very different than the moral institution that we all think of when we hear the word marriage.
To me it's like calling The Beatles and The Backstreet Boys both "bands".
The Beatles wrote and performed their own music.
The Backstreet Boys sing songs other people wrote.
True they are both in the music business, but really, are they in the same category? Not so much.
Is one better than the other? That is a personal preference.
Should there be different words to describe the different kinds of "bands"? Definitely!
Let's get on the ball with finding a different word for the governmental certified marriage, or maybe a different word for the moral institution we call marriage. One of them needs a new word!
Monday, September 17, 2012
Weekend
We had an awesome weekend. It was jam packed, but so enjoyable!
Eli tied his soccer game Friday night and then we went with friends to the last half of the high school football game. They lost, but it was fun. I hadn't been to a high school football game since I was in high school I think, so it's been awhile! Loved that the boys saw people they knew and we did too. After nine years of living here, we really feel like we have a solid place in the community, and I love that feeling of belonging!
Saturday brought three soccer games, and I got to go to all of them. Didn't get to stay for all of Eli's but he played the whole time I was there. Turns out Jesse and Eli won and Simon lost. They had Simon in for goalie and he forgot he could pick up the ball. He tried to kick the ball out of the goal and that wasn't as effective as picking it up, but he did well.
And since the sun came out, I have further solidified my look of a raccoon because of sunburn while wearing sunglasses. Such is my life I guess. I need to carry a little bottle of sunscreen in my purse, that may be my only saving grace!
Between games I got a text from my girlfriend that she finally got her husband from the airbase, he's fresh from Afghanistan. So thankful!
Then we had one of the best weddings we've ever had. The parents of the bride are just the nicest people. So kind. I want to grow up and be like them. Days like that make it worthwhile. Makes up for a couple of others we've had this year.
Sunday was so fun! Our friend John's Welcome Home party was Sunday and I had offered to do all the food so Katie wouldn't have to worry about it. I've spent the last two weeks organizing food and people and resources for the party, and I have to say, it really went off without a hitch. Our small group worked the entire party so John and Katie could mingle with their guests. It was great to see them back together, and am so praying for a smooth transition for them!
To prep for the party our small group came to our house after church and helped me finish making pico and guac-I used 16 avocados, so you have an idea of how much cutting and chopping was going on! One of the families brought pizza for lunch so we ate and then loaded up four vehicles and set up for the party. The weather was perfect for the party and everyone had a wonderful time. We worked like a well oiled machine.
We stayed until the end and cleaned up and hauled our stuff out of there. The boys played hard ALL DAY with friends from church and made some new friends too. They were some tired boys when we got home.
And at the end of the day I got to fall in bed with my husband and snuggle in this beautiful fall weather we are having.
Perfect weekend.
Eli tied his soccer game Friday night and then we went with friends to the last half of the high school football game. They lost, but it was fun. I hadn't been to a high school football game since I was in high school I think, so it's been awhile! Loved that the boys saw people they knew and we did too. After nine years of living here, we really feel like we have a solid place in the community, and I love that feeling of belonging!
Saturday brought three soccer games, and I got to go to all of them. Didn't get to stay for all of Eli's but he played the whole time I was there. Turns out Jesse and Eli won and Simon lost. They had Simon in for goalie and he forgot he could pick up the ball. He tried to kick the ball out of the goal and that wasn't as effective as picking it up, but he did well.
And since the sun came out, I have further solidified my look of a raccoon because of sunburn while wearing sunglasses. Such is my life I guess. I need to carry a little bottle of sunscreen in my purse, that may be my only saving grace!
Between games I got a text from my girlfriend that she finally got her husband from the airbase, he's fresh from Afghanistan. So thankful!
Then we had one of the best weddings we've ever had. The parents of the bride are just the nicest people. So kind. I want to grow up and be like them. Days like that make it worthwhile. Makes up for a couple of others we've had this year.
Sunday was so fun! Our friend John's Welcome Home party was Sunday and I had offered to do all the food so Katie wouldn't have to worry about it. I've spent the last two weeks organizing food and people and resources for the party, and I have to say, it really went off without a hitch. Our small group worked the entire party so John and Katie could mingle with their guests. It was great to see them back together, and am so praying for a smooth transition for them!
To prep for the party our small group came to our house after church and helped me finish making pico and guac-I used 16 avocados, so you have an idea of how much cutting and chopping was going on! One of the families brought pizza for lunch so we ate and then loaded up four vehicles and set up for the party. The weather was perfect for the party and everyone had a wonderful time. We worked like a well oiled machine.
We stayed until the end and cleaned up and hauled our stuff out of there. The boys played hard ALL DAY with friends from church and made some new friends too. They were some tired boys when we got home.
And at the end of the day I got to fall in bed with my husband and snuggle in this beautiful fall weather we are having.
Perfect weekend.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Spiritual
After my parents split up my mom (and us) attended an independent non-denominational evangelical charismatic church. There was a lot of raising hands in worship, laying on of hands during prayer, dancing, healing services, speaking in tongues, being slain in the spirit, prophesying, Friday night prayer meetings, preaching for two hours, all that kind of stuff. None of which I have an issue with and also I was raised Catholic up to that point (and with Dad thereafter), so I'm comfortable in pretty much any church, which is nice. Both ends of the spectrum.
One of the other things they always seemed to talk a lot about was spiritual warfare. I was never really sure where I stood on that subject. Mom would say that in the spirit realm they (angels and demons) would be fighting for your soul. And sometimes the warfare that was going on spiritually would be manifested in your physical realm. That was a little bit harder for me to understand or believe, I'm not sure which or why. There was a period in my life (before and during the time we went to that church) where I did see spirits, both angels and demons, which I don't offer up very often because then people really think I'm a quack.
Then we started 2012. I have felt more attacked in these last six weeks than I have in years. I'm not sure what to make of it. Not severe attacks, just the kind that are persistant and over time could break a person. And then one day I thought, "It's like Satan is throwing all of these trials at us to see if he can break us." Which lead me to the thoughts of the whole spiritual warfare entering the physical realm.
Now Tim was raised Quaker, which is mostly like every other religion and church service I've been to but with all of the "weird" stuff left out, they are just very quiet and reserved and are pacifists. Tim will often look at me like I have three heads if I bring up experiences or ideas from when I went to that non-denominational church. So I tread lightly there. However, after the sequence of events these last six weeks I had to bring up the spiritual warfare bit to see what he thought. He actually didn't shoot me down or look at me strange. He feels it too. He feels the forces we can't see trying to wear us down and pull us apart. Why the attacks? Why all at once? Physical manifestation of spiritual warfare might be an explanation.
If it is, it gives me more determination to fight back, I mean if we are worth Satan's time to try to break down then we are doing something right. If we are something he is fearful of it only means that the Jesus within us is growing and for that he has reason to fear.
Any thoughts out there from the peanut gallery? Any similar experiences? Comments from all places in the spectrum are welcome.
One of the other things they always seemed to talk a lot about was spiritual warfare. I was never really sure where I stood on that subject. Mom would say that in the spirit realm they (angels and demons) would be fighting for your soul. And sometimes the warfare that was going on spiritually would be manifested in your physical realm. That was a little bit harder for me to understand or believe, I'm not sure which or why. There was a period in my life (before and during the time we went to that church) where I did see spirits, both angels and demons, which I don't offer up very often because then people really think I'm a quack.
Then we started 2012. I have felt more attacked in these last six weeks than I have in years. I'm not sure what to make of it. Not severe attacks, just the kind that are persistant and over time could break a person. And then one day I thought, "It's like Satan is throwing all of these trials at us to see if he can break us." Which lead me to the thoughts of the whole spiritual warfare entering the physical realm.
Now Tim was raised Quaker, which is mostly like every other religion and church service I've been to but with all of the "weird" stuff left out, they are just very quiet and reserved and are pacifists. Tim will often look at me like I have three heads if I bring up experiences or ideas from when I went to that non-denominational church. So I tread lightly there. However, after the sequence of events these last six weeks I had to bring up the spiritual warfare bit to see what he thought. He actually didn't shoot me down or look at me strange. He feels it too. He feels the forces we can't see trying to wear us down and pull us apart. Why the attacks? Why all at once? Physical manifestation of spiritual warfare might be an explanation.
If it is, it gives me more determination to fight back, I mean if we are worth Satan's time to try to break down then we are doing something right. If we are something he is fearful of it only means that the Jesus within us is growing and for that he has reason to fear.
Any thoughts out there from the peanut gallery? Any similar experiences? Comments from all places in the spectrum are welcome.
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
It must be Sunday!
On Sunday mornings a lot of times Tim gets up and gets the fires going and then makes eggs for breakfast. I take the opportunity to not jump out of bed like I do during the week and leisurely get ready. Then when I get downstairs there is often a plate of eggs for me too. Which is nice. I'm a little bit spoiled!
Generally too, since church doesn't start until 10:00 we are much more laid back as compared to the weekdays when the boys are on the bus at 7:30 and even Saturdays when Eli has to be at the tutor's by 8:30 and I have appointments at 9:00. So I'll go to Tim and give him a kiss, or he'll come to me, but it's generally a "real" kiss and not just a quick peck like on a Tuesday when I'm scurring out to get the boys on the bus and get me to work on time.
And per usual, the boys always watch. They act as though it's gross and they hate it, but they love it! This particular Sunday Tim came to me and kissed me and Noah said, "Well, it must be Sunday."
We looked at him and asked, "Why?"
He smiled and said, "It's always a longer kiss on Sunday."
Indeed child, indeed.
So now that's our Sunday mantra, Kiss longer on Sunday. It's good, you should try it too!
Generally too, since church doesn't start until 10:00 we are much more laid back as compared to the weekdays when the boys are on the bus at 7:30 and even Saturdays when Eli has to be at the tutor's by 8:30 and I have appointments at 9:00. So I'll go to Tim and give him a kiss, or he'll come to me, but it's generally a "real" kiss and not just a quick peck like on a Tuesday when I'm scurring out to get the boys on the bus and get me to work on time.
And per usual, the boys always watch. They act as though it's gross and they hate it, but they love it! This particular Sunday Tim came to me and kissed me and Noah said, "Well, it must be Sunday."
We looked at him and asked, "Why?"
He smiled and said, "It's always a longer kiss on Sunday."
Indeed child, indeed.
So now that's our Sunday mantra, Kiss longer on Sunday. It's good, you should try it too!
Friday, January 06, 2012
Mary Ellen
We had to say goodbye this week to my Great Aunt Mary Ellen. She has been a fixture in my life. So much so, that I have never thought of what it would be like with her not there. And God love her, she died of cancer that wasn't diagnosed until the week before she died. We weren't prepared.
I rest in the comfort of knowing that you are back with your own sweet Mama and Jesus, who were both so glad to greet you. We love you Mary Ellen and you will be missed.
Rest in peace Mary Ellen!
I rest in the comfort of knowing that you are back with your own sweet Mama and Jesus, who were both so glad to greet you. We love you Mary Ellen and you will be missed.
Rest in peace Mary Ellen!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Not the best Mothering day
Just didn't have the best mothering day today. Actually that's not really true. It did seem like I couldn't think clearly, and consequently made some stupid mistakes, that hopefully don't have other repurcussions. One example: the big boys were all buying lunch at school today so I thought, great, no lunches to pack! About 11:30 the daycare calls, Jesse has his lunchbox but all that is in it is yesterdays left overs. Nice. Tim and Jesse remembered to take the lunch bag, I just didn't put anything in it. So I ran home and packed him a lunch and took it to him.
I think maybe I have too many irons in the fire and can't keep it all straight. I'm ready for Christmas vacation! No homework to worry about, just kicking it with my boys for ten days. I think it will do us all good to have some "Mommy days" as Jesse calls them.
We're also at a crossroads for Eli and his education again, I think. That weighs on this Mama's heart too. I just want to make the best decisions possible for my boys, and it can be hard to know just what the best decision is. I have to weigh the financial side too.
Plus it's Thursday. My mom always used to call it crash night, and as a mom of school age kids, I can see why. I usually move up bedtime on Thursdays, makes us all feel better.
Okay, I'm off to make peppermint bark for an exchange at work tomorrow and also start prepping for our dinner guests tomorrow. We're entertaining every night this weekend. We just get this one life, right? I'm packing it full!
Monday, October 17, 2011
September
So September was pretty busy. I turned 34, we went to a ton of soccer practices and games, I went out to dinner with one of my best friends from high school, Tim had his friends from high school over for wings and blackjack, the boys got their interim report cards, Jesse broke out the back side window of the suburban, we had one of the first official "talks" with the two older boys (it went well), Noah was sick and missed a day of school, we all got colds with that cold snap we had, Tim made a fire to break the chill since we had all been sniffing around. That kind of stuff, nothing huge, but it sure keeps us busy.
We have tournaments for Eli this weekend; they ended the season 5-5 so it all depends on who they play to see if they advance or not. It would be fun if they did.
Tim is working with his parents to help them get things done to their house before they put it on the market to downsize. Just a lot of little stuff so I'm sure he will be helpful to them. I think he's a good son!
I am working with a company to see if I want to do their bookkeeping for them. It would be some work each month, but I think I could add it in. However I haven't ever done that before so I'd maybe have to start a company to limit our personal liability, we're still trying to figure it all out, but I'm excited about the prospect.
We're all really enjoying life and that makes me happy!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Cousins
My heart goes out to my cousins this week. They lost their mom to a horrible car accident Friday night. I can't imagine!
Except I can, I know what it's like to get that call that your mom's been in an accident. I don't know what it's like for the next sentence to be, "She didn't make it." I'm just asking that God hold them close to his heart these coming months.
Aunt Jane was always fun and we spent a lot of time with them when I was little. Her laugh was one of a kind-I can still hear it. As I became an adult I saw her as she loved her kids with all she had. I haven't seen her in several years, but I'm sad she didn't get to see her grandbabies grow up and they won't get to know her, I know she loved them dearly.
You'll be missed Aunt Jane!
Except I can, I know what it's like to get that call that your mom's been in an accident. I don't know what it's like for the next sentence to be, "She didn't make it." I'm just asking that God hold them close to his heart these coming months.
Aunt Jane was always fun and we spent a lot of time with them when I was little. Her laugh was one of a kind-I can still hear it. As I became an adult I saw her as she loved her kids with all she had. I haven't seen her in several years, but I'm sad she didn't get to see her grandbabies grow up and they won't get to know her, I know she loved them dearly.
You'll be missed Aunt Jane!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Getting caught up
So much has happened since my last post! I have pictures to upload, posts to write, and stories to tell. I'm hoping to get to that this week, as this week *should* be a little slower. It won't, but I'm still going to get to it this week! I think.
Oh, I love summer and it goes so fast. Remember as a kid when it seemed like summer was an eternity? I sure hope my boys feel that way, at least that's what we're shooting for. It's been great so far and we have lots of good things still coming up!
Stay tuned!
Oh, I love summer and it goes so fast. Remember as a kid when it seemed like summer was an eternity? I sure hope my boys feel that way, at least that's what we're shooting for. It's been great so far and we have lots of good things still coming up!
Stay tuned!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Alive and Well
We're all alive and well, but man, this summer is fast paced!! We put the boys in daycare, including a summer program they have for the older boys. This daycare has a very active schedule, they go places almost everyday so that means I have to juggle three different class requirements for field trips, disposable lunches, proper attire (socks for the jumpy day, trunks and towels for swim day). They don't serve lunches so it's four lunches to pack every day too. Shew! Wears this Mama out!
I was also sick a little bit last week, I think I'm struggling because I'm not getting enough sleep on a regular basis. I'm trying to keep the boys on their regular schedule, but it's so hard because it stays light so late. We have a hard time every summer with that. The boys and I are doing well at staying on track with our summer school program, we do take Tuesdays off so I can go to Zumba though. We'll be back at it again today.
We've already had Simon and Jesse camping with Tim's parents and Eli and Noah had a week session of water safety/swim lessons. We've taken a long weekend to spend with our good friends that live seven hours away. They're coming to visit us soon and we're making plans for July 4th weekend.
The boys and I got our tomato and pepper plants going, my mom helped a little: brought us two broccoli plants-we'll see how they do, I've not had much luck with them in the past. We got a variety of peppers and tomatoes so it should be nice. Our black raspberries are ripe so we're picking them everyday now for the next couple of weeks. Eli and I made a pie the other day, they loved it. We had smoothies for dinner last night. I love that!
I got a new sewing machine, I'll have to post a picture of the curtains I finished after about five years of being in process. I love the new machine, and Tim, God bless him, loves that the curtains are done. I think I could have told him I spent double what I did for the machine and he wouldn't have batted an eye. He really wanted the curtains finished! But now I have a ton of other projects that I want to do, ones I have put off because my old machine was so frustrating.
I love summer, but it goes so quickly. July brings more camping, soccer camp, soccer practice, VBS, and vacation for starters. So many memories I want to make this year and I hope I can squeeze them all in before we hit school days again. We're all here and doing well, but I haven't taken the time to blog much. I want to so I need to jump in and do it, I want to remember this summer, it's a good one!
I was also sick a little bit last week, I think I'm struggling because I'm not getting enough sleep on a regular basis. I'm trying to keep the boys on their regular schedule, but it's so hard because it stays light so late. We have a hard time every summer with that. The boys and I are doing well at staying on track with our summer school program, we do take Tuesdays off so I can go to Zumba though. We'll be back at it again today.
We've already had Simon and Jesse camping with Tim's parents and Eli and Noah had a week session of water safety/swim lessons. We've taken a long weekend to spend with our good friends that live seven hours away. They're coming to visit us soon and we're making plans for July 4th weekend.
The boys and I got our tomato and pepper plants going, my mom helped a little: brought us two broccoli plants-we'll see how they do, I've not had much luck with them in the past. We got a variety of peppers and tomatoes so it should be nice. Our black raspberries are ripe so we're picking them everyday now for the next couple of weeks. Eli and I made a pie the other day, they loved it. We had smoothies for dinner last night. I love that!
I got a new sewing machine, I'll have to post a picture of the curtains I finished after about five years of being in process. I love the new machine, and Tim, God bless him, loves that the curtains are done. I think I could have told him I spent double what I did for the machine and he wouldn't have batted an eye. He really wanted the curtains finished! But now I have a ton of other projects that I want to do, ones I have put off because my old machine was so frustrating.
I love summer, but it goes so quickly. July brings more camping, soccer camp, soccer practice, VBS, and vacation for starters. So many memories I want to make this year and I hope I can squeeze them all in before we hit school days again. We're all here and doing well, but I haven't taken the time to blog much. I want to so I need to jump in and do it, I want to remember this summer, it's a good one!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Has is been a week?
It's been a busy week! Here's a quick recap.
Warm weather makes the boys antsy to get outside and play, making homework and schoolwork a challenge to get completed each day. I've taken a couple of Zumba classes, and am really enjoying it so I think I'm going to shoot for going once a week and still running on the weekends. We'll see how that all pans out as summer comes. Tim has been busy with his endless springtime projects. We got all 21 of the windows in. They are awesome! Tim got the old ones out of all the rooms just this week so this weekend we are washing all the new windows and putting the screens in. Then we'll set to cleaning the rooms. Some of the old trim had to be cut so there's lots of saw dust covering every surface. I didn't know about that!
Then Eli, Noah, and I will begin the redecoration of their room. Out with Peter Rabbit (my choosing for when they were little) and in with Military stuff. We already picked the paint and bought it, and the wall clings just came UPS so we're set. We just need to start stripping wallpaper and do all the work! The boys are VERY excited about it. I'm excited to have them help-you know, work ethic, appreciation and all that. Not to mention extra hands to strip wallpaper are always welcome in my book!
Our computer had been running super slow so Tim took it in for service and that's the other reason for the lack of posting, no PC. Does put a damper on the blogging. Thank goodness for lunch breaks :)
Next up is Jesse's birthday. We're having a party on Sunday and I'm working on the menu. We've decided to have everyone over for lunch and then have cake and ice cream for dessert. Complete with an elephant cake-he's requested it again so that's what I'm going for this time. I'll post a picture, but only if it turns out well! In a way it seems like he's already three (he's been saying he's three since before Christmas) so this birthday is a non-event, but on the other hand it's crazy that my littlest guy is three. Where is the time going?
Warm weather makes the boys antsy to get outside and play, making homework and schoolwork a challenge to get completed each day. I've taken a couple of Zumba classes, and am really enjoying it so I think I'm going to shoot for going once a week and still running on the weekends. We'll see how that all pans out as summer comes. Tim has been busy with his endless springtime projects. We got all 21 of the windows in. They are awesome! Tim got the old ones out of all the rooms just this week so this weekend we are washing all the new windows and putting the screens in. Then we'll set to cleaning the rooms. Some of the old trim had to be cut so there's lots of saw dust covering every surface. I didn't know about that!
Then Eli, Noah, and I will begin the redecoration of their room. Out with Peter Rabbit (my choosing for when they were little) and in with Military stuff. We already picked the paint and bought it, and the wall clings just came UPS so we're set. We just need to start stripping wallpaper and do all the work! The boys are VERY excited about it. I'm excited to have them help-you know, work ethic, appreciation and all that. Not to mention extra hands to strip wallpaper are always welcome in my book!
Our computer had been running super slow so Tim took it in for service and that's the other reason for the lack of posting, no PC. Does put a damper on the blogging. Thank goodness for lunch breaks :)
Next up is Jesse's birthday. We're having a party on Sunday and I'm working on the menu. We've decided to have everyone over for lunch and then have cake and ice cream for dessert. Complete with an elephant cake-he's requested it again so that's what I'm going for this time. I'll post a picture, but only if it turns out well! In a way it seems like he's already three (he's been saying he's three since before Christmas) so this birthday is a non-event, but on the other hand it's crazy that my littlest guy is three. Where is the time going?
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Happy St. Patrick's Day
Happy St. Patrick's Day! Don't have much to say today.
We're getting some new windows at our house. The second floor, all across the front. They are half done, hoping to be done with installation by Friday. We actually hired out the installation. We're starting to hire out more things since Tim is working pretty consistent now. He doesn't get laid off much anymore, which is good, but bad because he likes to do all these projects himself. Luckily there's plenty still for him to do!
Noah is playing basketball at the Y, which is a hoot! We aren't sports watchers at our house so I don't know that he's ever seen the game played, just what they do in gym at school. Since it was nice out yesterday I pumped up the basketball and had him practice dribbling (he's very slow at that). I'm going to have him play outside again today, he has a game Friday.
I'm going to try a Zumba class tonight, we'll see how that goes! It should be fun though, I'm going with a friend from church, and she's been going the last few weeks. I'm not sure I have the coordination for it, but it seems like it would be fun, so we'll see. I'll have to report back.
That's about it with us I think.
We're getting some new windows at our house. The second floor, all across the front. They are half done, hoping to be done with installation by Friday. We actually hired out the installation. We're starting to hire out more things since Tim is working pretty consistent now. He doesn't get laid off much anymore, which is good, but bad because he likes to do all these projects himself. Luckily there's plenty still for him to do!
Noah is playing basketball at the Y, which is a hoot! We aren't sports watchers at our house so I don't know that he's ever seen the game played, just what they do in gym at school. Since it was nice out yesterday I pumped up the basketball and had him practice dribbling (he's very slow at that). I'm going to have him play outside again today, he has a game Friday.
I'm going to try a Zumba class tonight, we'll see how that goes! It should be fun though, I'm going with a friend from church, and she's been going the last few weeks. I'm not sure I have the coordination for it, but it seems like it would be fun, so we'll see. I'll have to report back.
That's about it with us I think.
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Reflections
This is the time of year when everyone reflects on the previous year and discusses how good or bad it was, what they learned, and what they resolve to do better in the coming year. I'm just not one of those, and it struck me as odd this year.
Should I be one of those? It seems good to take stock of where you've been, where you are, and where you're going. How else do you grow and change in the directions you want to grow and change. Can't let the winds decide where you're going.
Don't I reflect? So I reflected on my lack of reflected. Turns out I do reflect on the year, but I do it in seasons. A year seems like a big chunk of time to me, too much for me to think about at once. I think back on a season once it is over and determine if it was successful or not and what I will differently the next time that season rolls around.
Soccer season, wedding season, Christmas season, birthday season, the school year, half-marathon training season, those are the kind of seasons in my life.
I reflected at the end of soccer season that I wanted a folding chair and I didn't want to sit on blankets or bleachers (if there even are any) at games anymore. When Tim's mom asked what I wanted for Christmas, I told her a folding chair. Got it. Soccer season will be better next year.
I have been caught unawares in birthday season before, and I'm not doing that again! Plans are being developed right now for the birthday in three weeks, at the start of birthday season in our house. It really starts with Tim in two weeks, but he's easy, steak dinner with all the fixings, and he's good to go!
The first half of Simon's pre-school year as not gone as smoothly as I had hoped, so I've got a new curriculum on it's way to me now. Coming recommended from a friend who is using it for her pre-schooler.
At the beginning of 2010 I began to make a meal plan for each week (mostly), and have found that my life is so much easier when I know what we're having for our meals. I'm keeping the meal planning of course, and adding in some new chores for me and the boys in an effort to keep the kitchen cleaner. I struggle with cleaning up after I cook. I think I get it from my Grandma! I'm trying to change my mindset that dinner isn't really over until the dishwasher is running and the table/stove/counters have been washed.
Turns out, I do reflect, I do it all the time. I prefer to do it in smaller chunks where I can see progress and tweek as I go. For a 2010 recap, it was a great year, not to say there weren't bumps in the road, but I love my husband more now than I did a year ago, and I've learned how to parent my boys individually better in the last year. If I'm improving on the wife and mom fronts, it's a win!
Should I be one of those? It seems good to take stock of where you've been, where you are, and where you're going. How else do you grow and change in the directions you want to grow and change. Can't let the winds decide where you're going.
Don't I reflect? So I reflected on my lack of reflected. Turns out I do reflect on the year, but I do it in seasons. A year seems like a big chunk of time to me, too much for me to think about at once. I think back on a season once it is over and determine if it was successful or not and what I will differently the next time that season rolls around.
Soccer season, wedding season, Christmas season, birthday season, the school year, half-marathon training season, those are the kind of seasons in my life.
I reflected at the end of soccer season that I wanted a folding chair and I didn't want to sit on blankets or bleachers (if there even are any) at games anymore. When Tim's mom asked what I wanted for Christmas, I told her a folding chair. Got it. Soccer season will be better next year.
I have been caught unawares in birthday season before, and I'm not doing that again! Plans are being developed right now for the birthday in three weeks, at the start of birthday season in our house. It really starts with Tim in two weeks, but he's easy, steak dinner with all the fixings, and he's good to go!
The first half of Simon's pre-school year as not gone as smoothly as I had hoped, so I've got a new curriculum on it's way to me now. Coming recommended from a friend who is using it for her pre-schooler.
At the beginning of 2010 I began to make a meal plan for each week (mostly), and have found that my life is so much easier when I know what we're having for our meals. I'm keeping the meal planning of course, and adding in some new chores for me and the boys in an effort to keep the kitchen cleaner. I struggle with cleaning up after I cook. I think I get it from my Grandma! I'm trying to change my mindset that dinner isn't really over until the dishwasher is running and the table/stove/counters have been washed.
Turns out, I do reflect, I do it all the time. I prefer to do it in smaller chunks where I can see progress and tweek as I go. For a 2010 recap, it was a great year, not to say there weren't bumps in the road, but I love my husband more now than I did a year ago, and I've learned how to parent my boys individually better in the last year. If I'm improving on the wife and mom fronts, it's a win!
Friday, September 17, 2010
The Internet Saga
I'm sure most of you were really wanting to know, or not so much, but it's big news for us---we finally have high speed internet!!!!
Turns out it was right under our noses. We got a little 3G modem (in the form of a thumb drive) that we plug into our computer's USB port and viola! high speed internet.
We did have to sign a two year contract with Verizon, and essentially it's another phone line on our wireless plan. I can track our usage of data transfer for the month (we have a limited amount for our plan). It appears that browsing the web is not a data transfer, but updating our business website is. Good to know. I'm not sure about sending e-mail. I'll have to check that.
I will say, it's pretty much as fast as when I'm at work. Right there is our old house. It's so exciting. Especially for Tim. I can be online at work, but Tim can't, so this is very nice for him. If he wants to look something up it doesn't take him an hour like with dialup.
It doesn't take long to connect like dial up either. And it doesn't tie up our phone line. Now we're wondering if we even need that phone line...hmmm.
So far, I'd highly recommend it. We'll see how it all shakes out, but it's looking good!
Turns out it was right under our noses. We got a little 3G modem (in the form of a thumb drive) that we plug into our computer's USB port and viola! high speed internet.
We did have to sign a two year contract with Verizon, and essentially it's another phone line on our wireless plan. I can track our usage of data transfer for the month (we have a limited amount for our plan). It appears that browsing the web is not a data transfer, but updating our business website is. Good to know. I'm not sure about sending e-mail. I'll have to check that.
I will say, it's pretty much as fast as when I'm at work. Right there is our old house. It's so exciting. Especially for Tim. I can be online at work, but Tim can't, so this is very nice for him. If he wants to look something up it doesn't take him an hour like with dialup.
It doesn't take long to connect like dial up either. And it doesn't tie up our phone line. Now we're wondering if we even need that phone line...hmmm.
So far, I'd highly recommend it. We'll see how it all shakes out, but it's looking good!
Monday, September 13, 2010
Changing Seasons
I don't know if it's because of the start of school and hanging out with germy children, allergy season, cooler nights, burning the candle at both ends, or what, but we are really struggling with staying well at our house this last week.
Eli missed two days of school last week. He had a fever and a sore throat and we thought it was strep, but the culture said it was not strep. However, he got a couple of days of antibiotic to knock it out and had to learn to gargle. That was funny! But now he's starting to cough. We're trying to nip that in the bud.
Jesse's nose is running like a faucet, poor kid. I hate that.
Simon's on the cusp of being sick, but is hanging in there. I'm right there with Simon, as long as I keep up my vitamins and drink a cup of tea in the morning to loosen up my throat I seem to be hanging on.
Tim is exhausted and all he wants to do is go to bed early. Very unusual for that man! I'm going to make sure he goes to bed early tonight.
Oddly enough, Noah is doing just fine. He was always more sick as a baby because of his thumb sucking, but maybe that's paying off now in that he's become fairly immune to the little colds floating around that we are all struggling with this last week. Interesting!
Here's to a healthy week this week!
Eli missed two days of school last week. He had a fever and a sore throat and we thought it was strep, but the culture said it was not strep. However, he got a couple of days of antibiotic to knock it out and had to learn to gargle. That was funny! But now he's starting to cough. We're trying to nip that in the bud.
Jesse's nose is running like a faucet, poor kid. I hate that.
Simon's on the cusp of being sick, but is hanging in there. I'm right there with Simon, as long as I keep up my vitamins and drink a cup of tea in the morning to loosen up my throat I seem to be hanging on.
Tim is exhausted and all he wants to do is go to bed early. Very unusual for that man! I'm going to make sure he goes to bed early tonight.
Oddly enough, Noah is doing just fine. He was always more sick as a baby because of his thumb sucking, but maybe that's paying off now in that he's become fairly immune to the little colds floating around that we are all struggling with this last week. Interesting!
Here's to a healthy week this week!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Busy, Busy
We're here, it's just a little slow going with posting, switching gears for fall takes a little adjustment. I'm hoping to be back in the groove by next week. But don't hold me to that!
We've got two boys in school, two boys in soccer, one boy starting homeschool pre-school, third grade homework everyday, weekly first grade homework, potty training, work, church activities, tutoring, our seasonal business, and not to mention just regular everyday stuff with some fun stuff thrown in.
I've got some pictures I need to upload to go with some posts, but it's not so smooth on the computer front. We tried DSL again through a different company, and after a big run around, we got shut down. We'll keep trying until something pans out. It will, eventually.
We've got two boys in school, two boys in soccer, one boy starting homeschool pre-school, third grade homework everyday, weekly first grade homework, potty training, work, church activities, tutoring, our seasonal business, and not to mention just regular everyday stuff with some fun stuff thrown in.
I've got some pictures I need to upload to go with some posts, but it's not so smooth on the computer front. We tried DSL again through a different company, and after a big run around, we got shut down. We'll keep trying until something pans out. It will, eventually.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Busy Day
I think I may have had the busiest day ever.
7:30 Eli and I were at my work.
8:30 left to go to Wal-Mart to get Eli new soccer cleats (they didn't have any, neither did Kmart)
8:45 checked to see what time the sports store opens-not till 9:30, too late for today
9:00 drop Eli off at Soccer Camp
9:10 back to work
11:50 leave to pick Eli up from Soccer Camp
12:05 take Eli to the sitter
12:30 back towork lunch to eat my leftovers
3:45 leave work to pick up the boys
4:30 get the boys a snack
4:40 start dinner
4:45 take call that was not fun
5:20 eat dinner
5:45 leave to go to the sports store to get Eli soccer cleats and Simon the right size ball
6:10 leave the store to go to VBS
6:15 report to the VBS preschool area
6:30 head up craft time for the preschoolers
6:45 round up the VBS kids that need to run to Tennis practice
6:50 take 4 kids to Tennis
8:00 tell the Tennis coach it's 8:00 and I have to leave with my VBS kids
8:15 back to VBS and deposit the kids to their proper areas
8:35 round up my boys to try to get them home
8:45 head for home
9:35 all boys in bed with teeth brushed and clothes out for tomorrow
9:45 load of laundry in, ate a snack, fold a load, load and run dishwasher, sweep kitchen, talk to Tim a few minutes, put clothes in dryer, put clothes away
11:45 in bed, 6:30 comes early!
It doesn't look like all that much now that I write it down, but bear in mind except for work time I always have four boys with me, we're all running on little sleep, and Jesse is coming down with a cold and just wants me to hold him. He cried when I dropped him off at the VBS nursery, which is so sad and not his usual. And our house is hot, so hot. Everyone and everything is sticky, which just makes it feel like doing anything is a chore. We're not getting much relief at night either this week. But six more weeks and we should be in the clear as far as heat goes.
I love the summer!
7:30 Eli and I were at my work.
8:30 left to go to Wal-Mart to get Eli new soccer cleats (they didn't have any, neither did Kmart)
8:45 checked to see what time the sports store opens-not till 9:30, too late for today
9:00 drop Eli off at Soccer Camp
9:10 back to work
11:50 leave to pick Eli up from Soccer Camp
12:05 take Eli to the sitter
12:30 back towork lunch to eat my leftovers
3:45 leave work to pick up the boys
4:30 get the boys a snack
4:40 start dinner
4:45 take call that was not fun
5:20 eat dinner
5:45 leave to go to the sports store to get Eli soccer cleats and Simon the right size ball
6:10 leave the store to go to VBS
6:15 report to the VBS preschool area
6:30 head up craft time for the preschoolers
6:45 round up the VBS kids that need to run to Tennis practice
6:50 take 4 kids to Tennis
8:00 tell the Tennis coach it's 8:00 and I have to leave with my VBS kids
8:15 back to VBS and deposit the kids to their proper areas
8:35 round up my boys to try to get them home
8:45 head for home
9:35 all boys in bed with teeth brushed and clothes out for tomorrow
9:45 load of laundry in, ate a snack, fold a load, load and run dishwasher, sweep kitchen, talk to Tim a few minutes, put clothes in dryer, put clothes away
11:45 in bed, 6:30 comes early!
It doesn't look like all that much now that I write it down, but bear in mind except for work time I always have four boys with me, we're all running on little sleep, and Jesse is coming down with a cold and just wants me to hold him. He cried when I dropped him off at the VBS nursery, which is so sad and not his usual. And our house is hot, so hot. Everyone and everything is sticky, which just makes it feel like doing anything is a chore. We're not getting much relief at night either this week. But six more weeks and we should be in the clear as far as heat goes.
I love the summer!
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