I've failed miserably in keeping such accurate accounts of the life and times of my family - more specifically, my kids. Kindergarten has aged my child. She's become somewhat cultured, mature and just... just... further away from a dependant young soul who relies upon her parents so heavily. She's growing up. From the way she sits comfortably at her fold- up Cabbage Patch kid play table with her skinny legs crossed to the advanced vocabulary words she carefully chooses in conveying her ideas.
Growing up. Which is a good thing - but seriously... how does it happen so quickly?
And then, there is this boy. A boy whom we will call "Stink." (Because all boys should STINK until my daughter is well into her 20's!) Stink has liked Elaina and vice versa. In fact, it is rumored that the entire kindergarten class knows that Stink likes Elaina.
Since I hadn't heard much about Stink lately, I decided to inquire about him tonight at the dinner table.
Me: How are your friends at school? I haven't heard you talk much about Stink lately.
Elaina: Uhhh... I'm just not that into him.
Me: (Snicker:-) Not into him, huh?
Elaina: Yeah. He tried to sit by me at lunch today but I just ignored him. In fact, I don't try to talk to him at all.
**Break for Mom and Dad to rejoice with simulated high-fives and fist pumping**
Oh. My. 5 years- old this child. And already so wise to the world of dating. If only all of her teenage years could go so easily.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Holy Moly.
Today was a landmark day. Not only did we celebrate Palm Sunday in church, but today is the day that Eric and I became members of the church and Lincoln became baptized.
As we began to conclude our church membership classes, the thought of Lincoln's baptism, or non-baptism as the case may be, crossed my mind. When Elaina was born, I was still attending the Catholic church on somewhat of a regular basis. Naturally, having her baptized into the Catholic church seemed fitting since Eric wasn't coming with me at that time- she would be baptized into my faith religion. As the years went on and Lincoln joined our family, I was finding out how hard it was to juggle two kids and sacrifice extra sleep when it happened to find me on weekend mornings.
It became easy to slip into the 2 free day-weekend zone with our mornings to ourselves and loose commitments. All the while, not being tied to one church or another and developing feelings of guilt over not having Lincoln blessed into any religion. I knew that had to change. Upon the consent of our Pastor, we began to prepare for Lincoln to join us in our new church through the rite of baptism.
Today was the day. He looked quite handsome in his white dress shirt and clip-on tie. As we all approached the front of the church, the Pastor came to the part of the service which would include Lincoln. As he announced Lincoln's full name in his official and loud voice, Lincoln looked up and smacked the palm of his hand straight across his own forehead and muttered, "Oh boy." The congregation burst into laughter and everything went smoothly thereafter. That's one thing about Lincoln; you never know what to expect from that kid, but he's constantly full of surprises and can bring you laughter when you least expect it.
As we began to conclude our church membership classes, the thought of Lincoln's baptism, or non-baptism as the case may be, crossed my mind. When Elaina was born, I was still attending the Catholic church on somewhat of a regular basis. Naturally, having her baptized into the Catholic church seemed fitting since Eric wasn't coming with me at that time- she would be baptized into my faith religion. As the years went on and Lincoln joined our family, I was finding out how hard it was to juggle two kids and sacrifice extra sleep when it happened to find me on weekend mornings.
It became easy to slip into the 2 free day-weekend zone with our mornings to ourselves and loose commitments. All the while, not being tied to one church or another and developing feelings of guilt over not having Lincoln blessed into any religion. I knew that had to change. Upon the consent of our Pastor, we began to prepare for Lincoln to join us in our new church through the rite of baptism.
Today was the day. He looked quite handsome in his white dress shirt and clip-on tie. As we all approached the front of the church, the Pastor came to the part of the service which would include Lincoln. As he announced Lincoln's full name in his official and loud voice, Lincoln looked up and smacked the palm of his hand straight across his own forehead and muttered, "Oh boy." The congregation burst into laughter and everything went smoothly thereafter. That's one thing about Lincoln; you never know what to expect from that kid, but he's constantly full of surprises and can bring you laughter when you least expect it.
And they came back!
My kiddos and my parents survived (and enjoyed!) their time together. Quoting Elaina, "I bet that I had the very best spring break of all the kids in all of the school!" (while at her grandparents' house)
Ahh... sweet, innocent child who has not yet been made aware that some families really do plan vacations for spring break. Generally where it is warm and the sun is shining. Disney anyone?
Anyway, it was wonderful to hear that not only my kids, but my parents also enjoyed their time together. Eric and I also got to enjoy a break from the ordinary. On 2 consecutive mornings, I got myself ready for work and walked straight down the stairs and right out to my car. No kids, no bookbags, no fits, no stalling, no crying, no... you get the picture. It was glorious. Friday night even allowed a Date Night for my husband and me. We shopped at our leisure and then over-indulged on Indian food and went to bed early. A wonderful ending to a great week!
Ahh... sweet, innocent child who has not yet been made aware that some families really do plan vacations for spring break. Generally where it is warm and the sun is shining. Disney anyone?
Anyway, it was wonderful to hear that not only my kids, but my parents also enjoyed their time together. Eric and I also got to enjoy a break from the ordinary. On 2 consecutive mornings, I got myself ready for work and walked straight down the stairs and right out to my car. No kids, no bookbags, no fits, no stalling, no crying, no... you get the picture. It was glorious. Friday night even allowed a Date Night for my husband and me. We shopped at our leisure and then over-indulged on Indian food and went to bed early. A wonderful ending to a great week!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Evaluation
In preparation of spending time away from my kiddos while they visit my parents, I was having a serious talk with Elaina about how Grandma will take care of her while she is visiting and that if she needs anything, Grandma can help her. I also reminded Elaina that Grandma H. is my mom and is the one who taught me how to be a good mom too. While on topic, I also decided to inquire if my daughter shared the same opinion of "The Good Mom Title."
Me: "Elaina? Do you think that I am a good mom?"
Elaina: (in the most sincere, serious tone a 5 year-old can muster)(looking me straight in the eye)
"I think that you are the best Mom I could ever ask for."
And AS IF I could love that darling, little girl any more than I already do. Her words were like gold to me.
In the grand scheme of my life, my career and anything I ever choose to do - that alone, is one of the single most defining moments in my life. My daughter's rating of my job performance thus far. Golden.
Me: "Elaina? Do you think that I am a good mom?"
Elaina: (in the most sincere, serious tone a 5 year-old can muster)(looking me straight in the eye)
"I think that you are the best Mom I could ever ask for."
And AS IF I could love that darling, little girl any more than I already do. Her words were like gold to me.
In the grand scheme of my life, my career and anything I ever choose to do - that alone, is one of the single most defining moments in my life. My daughter's rating of my job performance thus far. Golden.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Portability
Wouldn't it just happen that I have loads of cutie pictures to upload and our desktop (which I prefer) takes a dump the same night I actually have time to spend here?
So the laptop and me. We're becoming friends. It is considerably more comfortable sitting in the recliner with my feet kicked up and cuddled under a warm blanket. And funny enough, if my blog writings actually do survive the test of time for my children to read, how funny to them that we still have a desktop computer? < I like it okay?>
For the sake of catching up, we've been enjoying some pretty busy days around here. Today marks the beginning of Elaina's first elementary school spring break. She's been excited to spend time playing with her friends at the babysitter's house, but she and Lincoln are far more excited for Wednesday when they get to go to grandma and grandpa's house for the remainder of the week. Every single morning, Lincoln gets ticked off when he discovers that it isn't "Grandma and Grandpa day" yet.
While I wouldn't exactly say that I'm excited to ship my kids off, having a break in our routine is good for everyone. My agenda includes tackling some household projects, arriving at work on time and a lovely date with my husband on Friday night. And as long as we're talking about spring break, I hope this 30 degree weather breaks soon so as to give my parents a break to enjoy some time outdoors with my kids! Wish them luck!
So the laptop and me. We're becoming friends. It is considerably more comfortable sitting in the recliner with my feet kicked up and cuddled under a warm blanket. And funny enough, if my blog writings actually do survive the test of time for my children to read, how funny to them that we still have a desktop computer? < I like it okay?>
For the sake of catching up, we've been enjoying some pretty busy days around here. Today marks the beginning of Elaina's first elementary school spring break. She's been excited to spend time playing with her friends at the babysitter's house, but she and Lincoln are far more excited for Wednesday when they get to go to grandma and grandpa's house for the remainder of the week. Every single morning, Lincoln gets ticked off when he discovers that it isn't "Grandma and Grandpa day" yet.
While I wouldn't exactly say that I'm excited to ship my kids off, having a break in our routine is good for everyone. My agenda includes tackling some household projects, arriving at work on time and a lovely date with my husband on Friday night. And as long as we're talking about spring break, I hope this 30 degree weather breaks soon so as to give my parents a break to enjoy some time outdoors with my kids! Wish them luck!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Unprepared
When I had this bright idea to give myself a fresh start with this whole blogging bit, my intention was to blog a little each and every night. Random thoughts. Stuff we did that day. Funny things my kids said. Pretty much anything would be acceptable as long as I made time.
But - TIME! The key component to any project. Definitely need time.
I wasn't prepared for the too-late bedtimes involving pulling out the 5 day-old dangling tooth from my daughter. (which I saddled Eric with) The whining pleas from my son needing his 4th last- hug of the night. At 10:00! My husband whose work schedule generally involves limited traveling seems to amp up this time of year, sending him packing a few times each month. The laundry piling up because this winter has been brutally cold and we're piling on layers of clothes to keep warm. And our once a week commitment to attending "church school" to become new members of the church.
With that said, tonight was one of those random nights of obligation: "Preschool Literacy Night." The only way I even found out about it being scheduled for this evening was by a random check on their website. Also, I didn't exactly know that they intended for the actual *almost* preschoolers to join in. I arrived at the school early and saw other parents walking their Littles into the building. I speed- dialed Eric and told him to hustle our little fellow on up to the school. I was both surprised and impressed at how well Lincoln followed along with the program until story time when he began to pick his nose and held it out to the librarian, announcing "I got a booger!" Right during the story. Right in front of all of the other kids, parents and staff. Awesome!
When you have kids, I think it would be fair to say that you can never be prepared for what will come next!
But - TIME! The key component to any project. Definitely need time.
I wasn't prepared for the too-late bedtimes involving pulling out the 5 day-old dangling tooth from my daughter. (which I saddled Eric with) The whining pleas from my son needing his 4th last- hug of the night. At 10:00! My husband whose work schedule generally involves limited traveling seems to amp up this time of year, sending him packing a few times each month. The laundry piling up because this winter has been brutally cold and we're piling on layers of clothes to keep warm. And our once a week commitment to attending "church school" to become new members of the church.
With that said, tonight was one of those random nights of obligation: "Preschool Literacy Night." The only way I even found out about it being scheduled for this evening was by a random check on their website. Also, I didn't exactly know that they intended for the actual *almost* preschoolers to join in. I arrived at the school early and saw other parents walking their Littles into the building. I speed- dialed Eric and told him to hustle our little fellow on up to the school. I was both surprised and impressed at how well Lincoln followed along with the program until story time when he began to pick his nose and held it out to the librarian, announcing "I got a booger!" Right during the story. Right in front of all of the other kids, parents and staff. Awesome!
When you have kids, I think it would be fair to say that you can never be prepared for what will come next!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Away in P.A.
Pittsburgh (and Pennsylvania in general) is easily becoming one of our favorite weekend and mini-cation destinations. We have become huge fans of the Pittsburgh Children's Museum and only recently discovered the Pittsburgh Science Center. Ah-mazing places they are!
Over the long MLK weekend, we took a quick overnighter to Pittsburgh with the sole objective of playing, relaxing and resting. As a result: we put so much energy into playing that the rest and relaxation were only squeezed in during car rides. Ha! So much for that plan!
Some highlights of our trip include:
* Like many of our other Hotel Hijinx, the pool at our hotel was closed for maintenance. Part of the reason we plan overnighter stays is for the very specific reason of having a pool. They sent us next door (literally, outside to the next building over) to what could only be described as a 1960's style "bath house" which lay claim to a huge sized swimming pool that was only minimally heated. And since they didn't allow any inflatable water-wings, our kids relied on (pool provided) pool noodles and a couple random life jackets that we scrounged up from their heaping pile of kick-boards. Still fun. But not what we were anticipating.
* We chose our hotel location near the ever-popular hot spot "Carson Street." Come to realize that it's only hot to those who are single, early 30's and loaded! Basically a very grown-up venue. And since we decided to walk Carson Street to find a restaurant for dinner, we ended up at what seemed to be a very high class restaurant with our (very tired) 3 and 5 year olds in tow. Eric and I enjoyed our dinners (at "market price!") while the kids laid across our corner booth seat munching on their special order french fries, grilled cheese and chicken strips that the chefs generously prepared upon request. (Classy restaurants: no kids menus!)(doh.)
* Something even more interesting about our dining experience: Once we arrived at our table, Eric was taking off his coat to reveal his MVFD (fire dept.) sweatshirt and a guy one table over asks if that fire department is on Ohio or in Pennsylvania. The guy's face lit up when Eric replied "Ohio" and said "no way, that's where we live!" Seriously, out of small town of about 850, what are the chances that we meet some local villagers at the ritzy, Carson Street establishment?
As for the rest of our trip, I think that the pictures may be the best way for a recap of some of the fun we had at the museums.
The "Yo-You" pulley lifting Elaina into the air (Lincoln did this one too!)
Lincoln at the wheel of a submarine
Over the long MLK weekend, we took a quick overnighter to Pittsburgh with the sole objective of playing, relaxing and resting. As a result: we put so much energy into playing that the rest and relaxation were only squeezed in during car rides. Ha! So much for that plan!
Some highlights of our trip include:
* Like many of our other Hotel Hijinx, the pool at our hotel was closed for maintenance. Part of the reason we plan overnighter stays is for the very specific reason of having a pool. They sent us next door (literally, outside to the next building over) to what could only be described as a 1960's style "bath house" which lay claim to a huge sized swimming pool that was only minimally heated. And since they didn't allow any inflatable water-wings, our kids relied on (pool provided) pool noodles and a couple random life jackets that we scrounged up from their heaping pile of kick-boards. Still fun. But not what we were anticipating.
* We chose our hotel location near the ever-popular hot spot "Carson Street." Come to realize that it's only hot to those who are single, early 30's and loaded! Basically a very grown-up venue. And since we decided to walk Carson Street to find a restaurant for dinner, we ended up at what seemed to be a very high class restaurant with our (very tired) 3 and 5 year olds in tow. Eric and I enjoyed our dinners (at "market price!") while the kids laid across our corner booth seat munching on their special order french fries, grilled cheese and chicken strips that the chefs generously prepared upon request. (Classy restaurants: no kids menus!)(doh.)
* Something even more interesting about our dining experience: Once we arrived at our table, Eric was taking off his coat to reveal his MVFD (fire dept.) sweatshirt and a guy one table over asks if that fire department is on Ohio or in Pennsylvania. The guy's face lit up when Eric replied "Ohio" and said "no way, that's where we live!" Seriously, out of small town of about 850, what are the chances that we meet some local villagers at the ritzy, Carson Street establishment?
As for the rest of our trip, I think that the pictures may be the best way for a recap of some of the fun we had at the museums.
Rocket launch with paper rockets crafted by Eric and Elaina
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