Christmas 2011

We are blessed to celebrate Christmas 3 times this month!  The first was in Ord. We had two family dinners and a day at the farm sledding and 4-wheeling.  Unfortunately, Ben fractured his thumb and will wear a splint for the next 2 weeks.  He is not in pain, but has what he calls "the mother of all bruises" on his left hand.  At least we were able to dodge another cast.
Ben received multiple lego sets and some $.
Sadie received clothing, $, and some great developmental toys.
Greg and I were gifted with money to buy Sadie some new equipment!

Our second Christmas was on the actual day and we had a quiet day with just us four.  We stayed in our jammies all day (I was the only one who took a shower and put on fresh jammies).

The kids (including Greg) loved of all of their gifts.

Ben: rollerblades/pads, ESpark motorized scooter, Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book, Pictionary, crayon maker, new markers, Pirates of the Carribean lego set, Wii game, and a new sporty watch.
Sadie: toddler slide, hand puppets, texture ball, playdough, and books
Greg: Ipad 2 and a 55" screen TV
Me: white gold and diamond cross necklace - I really hope Miss Sadie does not rip this one off my neck!

We had a wonderful Christmas lunch of stuffed pork loin, wild rice, and blueberry cobbler. Yes, I actually cooked everything from scratch! It was truly a miracle.

Today begins the 3rd and final phase of Christmas. My sister and her family will be here within the hour. I can't wait!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Post Bath

Thanksgiving 2011

Getting ready for the festivities

When are they coming?

Now I know where she gets this expression

Katie, Ann and Ron

DJ and Melissa

Sweet Brothers (had to force this one, but glad I did)

Disturbing, but funny. Grandma Deb initiated this.

The kids decide to play on a big pile of dirt.  This could have resulted in injury, but we had some people in the medical field at the house, so all was good

Anna decides to have a second meal. She is the cutest thing!

I had many more pics, but I am photography challenged and they were dark

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving full of food, football, basketball and family!

Dad Is Fun!

Exercise

Just wanted to document what I am currently doing with the trainer so I can see my progress as the weeks go by :)

Today:
1. Bike for 1 mile to warm up
2. Elliptical for 15 minutes
3. Run/walk 1 mile on the track - she lied to me and made me run most of it :(
4. Abs: planks, obliques, crunches
5. Treadmill for 1 mile: allowed to run or walk, but I'm a people pleaser so I try to run as much as possible
6. Back up to the track for another mile; at this point I could only walk :(
7. Weigh-in and measurements. Not too fun, but at least I will be able to see the progress.
She said this was only the beginning...SCARY

I realize this might seem like a joke to some, but I haven't worked out in months, so it is very difficult for me.
I do Body Pump on the off days and am about to up my weight. Again, SCARY!  She also wants me to take her Pilates class on another day.  Starbucks is my best friend right now :)

Mealtime With An Ear Infection

This is what we have been dealing with for 2 weeks or more. I don't know if it's her ear or her age or her inability to communicate her wants/needs or a combination of all of the above, but it is exhausting.

No more restaurants for a while!

So...just in case you think your child is throwing too many fits, my girl takes the cake :)

Back To The Gym!

Today was my first appointment with my trainer. I attended the Body Pump class and then did cardio under her instruction.  I dropped Sadie off at school and ran to Starbucks for a latte and tried to down it in 10 minutes. Probably not the best idea if you don't drink coffee on a normal basis, but there is no way I could have gotten through it without some caffeine.  Even though I was trembling afterward, I felt like I could run a marathon. Yay caffeine!  My plan is to do Body Pump twice a week and train with her twice a week.  She even mentioned running! Scary! We really want to work on my abs so I have adequate core strength/back strength to carry Sadie. Ms. Priss is not getting any smaller. My abs need some serious attention. I have never drank some much water in 1 1/2 hours in my entire life :)

One of the girls in Body Pump warned me about the trainer "being dry". I told her I was some serious competition. We got along great!

Tonight, we are carving pumpkins :)

Happy Thursday!

The Good And The Bad

I think I'll just do this by family member. It's been so long since I've blogged because things around here are CRAZY.

Greg:
Good: He likes his job. The nurses are wonderful, as is the facility.  He is not working as many hours and that is nice.

Bad: He does not love his job. He is not seeing many patients per day and he feels like he doesn't have "the pull" that he did at his last job.  He feels restricted and the docs are commenting on his documentation.  Don't get me wrong. I totally agree. Greg's penmanship, grammar, etc. could use some freshing up.  I just want him to be happy.  I think it will just take some time.

Me:
Good: I love how happy Ben is in this neighborhood and I really do like my house.  I've been trying to decorate little by little, but it has been a challenge with Ms. Grumpy Pants. I went to my second MOPS meeting and have been invited to another at a different church.  I love getting out and holding those sweet babies.

Bad: This actually shouldn't be a bad, but I have my first personal trainer appt. tomorrow. She wants me to do Body Pump then 30 minutes of cardio and maybe more.  I can barely even get the clips on the weights for the class so I am more than a little terrified.  Two hours of exercise = nightmare.  I so need to get in shape though, so here we go...
This might be too much information, but I have had more and more irregular bleeding so I must go back to the gyn on Monday :(

Ben:
Where do I start?
Good: Ben is so smart (I can say that since he's mine :) ). He rec'd all A's on his report card today. He has been finishing his homework in record time so he can go outside to play.  He woke at 5 am this morning, made his bed, dressed, took the dogs out and fed them.  He also does every chore I ask of him in the evening (laundry, dishwasher, cooking, you name it). Last night, he planted a tree at scouts and had dirt all over him and under his nails.  I just swallowed and breathed and let him be. We also went to Family Fun Night at his school and he made a cobra out of his gourd.  He is so creative and the principal was impressed = bonus points.

Bad: One word: MANIPULATIVE.  He can talk his way out of any situation (mini Greg). He puts toys and candy on all of my grocery lists. Last night, he hid a bag of Three Musketeers under his bed. We found them this morning while the dogs were trying to get into them. Sigh... Luckily, I know his lying face and catch him every time. I want him to FEAR me. Is that bad?

Sadie: Oh my...
Good: We have started private therapy for her and it is going really well.  I also took a signing class so I will be able to teach her some new signs.  She has ST on Tuesdays and OT/PT on Wednesdays. I take her to school after therapy.

Bad: She has been having some behavioral issues lately.  This week, she has been refusing to sit for a short amount of time.  She has been raring back in anger.  Meal times are very difficult.  We have decided not to take her to restaurants for a while until this passes. Grocery shopping is a nightmare. Tonight, I am waiting on Greg to get home before I shop. Today, we had her Fall Festival at school. Her paraprofessional called in, but I tried to stay and help Sadie with the centers. This did not work. If I am present, she will not comply.  I waited til we were in the car to cry.  It's just so frustrating sometimes. I know it will get better.

Transition:
We have definitely had a difficult transition.  We have experienced a lot of stress lately. I contacted a marriage counselor last week and have been to one session. Greg will see her tomorrow and then we will go together.  I love my husband more than anything and refuse to let this transition tear us apart.  I trust in God and know that he brought us here for a reason. He gave us Ben and Sadie for a reason. He gave us these dogs for a reason (did I tell you I tried to give them away last week?). He gives us challenges to make us stronger. We have been to 4 churches thus far and have not really found what we need, but I know He will lead us. 

Until next time...

Happenings

The wind is blowing 30 MPH right now. There are toys and lawn equipment in my yard that do not belong to me.  I can't find the grill cover either. It might be on the next street..

Ben is doing well with his braces.  He had a bracket replaced and a power chain put on on Wednesday.

He is riding his bike to school and has almost been hit by a car twice. He actually crashed into an electric pole to avoid being hit.  He is now wearing a helmet and I MAKE him stop at the corner to look both ways.  I have been walking him to the corner again to make sure he is diligent. Sigh...

Sadie loves school and is doing well.  I love to pick her up and see her excitement to come home with her mama.

We are all dealing with some allergies due to soybean dust and wind.  We are all on Allegra and Greg is taking Vitamin C and cough drops.  He is enjoying his new job, but the patient load is much less. He does have a flat screen TV and computer in his office, so at least he can watch the news.

Greg finally arrived "home" a few days ago and has been very busy putting in the shock collar system for our dogs.  I thought I would actually enjoy seeing Charlie shocked after a rough couple of weeks, but when it actually happened, I felt bad.  I don't think he will be venturing out of the yard again.

I'm off to to some dish duty and laundry. Happy Friday!

MOPS, Randomness, and Psalm 74

Yesterday, I went to my first MOPS meeting.  I met a lot of women and held some sweet babies :)  We watched a movie, mingled, had discussion group, and made name tags.  Let me just say, I am not at all crafty.  My name tag compared to the other women in the group was just sad. Not to mention mine was more of a choker than a name tag. I think those moms can teach me a thing or two.

In other news, the family went to parent-teacher conferences yesterday and I was SO HAPPY to hear that he was doing so great in school.  He was rewarded with two new books at the book fair.  Of course they set up the book fair during that time and make you walk through it to get to the gym so your children will drool over everthing.  Those people are sneaky.

I played basketball and tag with some of the neighborhood children last night. NOTE TO SELF: you cannot run in dressy shoes. Mix that with my total lack of coordination = injuries.  I fell (I don't think anyone saw) and now have a skinned/bruised knee, a sprained wrist, and an abrasion on my foot.  It was half concrete/half grass, so it could have been worse. I don't think I have been injury-free since I have moved to Nebraska. I am so old.

Last night, Ben and I were able to have a little Bible time. I always let him open up the Bible and read whatever page he stumbles upon.  Last night it was Psalm 74.  I always ask him how this relates to our life and then give my own comment.  Do you know what he said? "Mom, we have been OVER and OVER this already so many times!" And then it was lights out.

This morning he is up early watching Billy the Exterminator and asking me for a back rub and a blanket. Such a character.

Somebody Has Some New Bling!

Happy Birthday Mom!

I LOVE YOU!

Some of your best attributes...

You always help anyone in need. You have such a good heart.

You are a hard worker. You have always been.

You are a wonderful grandmother.  You love Ben, Sadie, Dylan, Miles and Julian and any other sweet child you come into contact with.

You are a wonderful mother.  You help me in an instant, no matter what the reason.

You love food and wine like your daughter ;) I love that we love the "hottest of the hot" foods!

You are easy to talk to.  I could talk to you for hours.

You always strive for something more.

You love the Lord.

You love to shop, although you would rather do it with Melissa :)

I love your house.  It feels like home to me.  I hope I will be able to see it again soon.

You are aging well. It gives me a great deal of hope.

Once again Mom, I LOVE YOU. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Great Day

We all slept in a bit this morning. For me, that means 6:30, but I'll take it.  It was so wonderful to not have to be anywhere for once!  We lounged quite a while in our jammies and I did a few chores.  It is pretty cool here so I am pulling out our long pjs and cool weather clothes.

Ben played with some friends outside and Sadie and I played a board game outside with the girls.

I made veggie burgers for lunch and served them with fruit.

Sadie took a great nap and I rested for a bit too.

Our house will be viewed today, Saturday, and Sunday. Fingers crossed.

I pick up Greg on Monday in Omaha. We are seriously missing each other. Seven days is a long time.

Ben will have braces put on Tuesday in Lincoln.  I think he will look adorable.

I started some fall decorating :)  Fall is my absolute FAVORITE time of the year.  I've done a few things outside and in and bought a few apple spice candles.  Halloween costumes have been purchased as well.

Watched my first full Husker game today and really enjoyed it! Might like football after all. I really don't have a choice ;)

Happy Weekend Everyone!

Happy Birthday Sadie Frances!

This is such a bittersweet day.  I spent the early morning watching my mother and sister leave. I spent the later hours of the morning watching my husband leave. On planes. Not comfortable.  I watched the footage from that horrible day.  Greg and I were engaged the Saturday prior.  I remember watching the footage at the hospital that Monday (2 days after) and wondering if this was the end. I grieve for the people who died on 9/11.  I pray for the families who still hurt on this day. 

God gave us a wonderful gift on the anniversary of 9/11.

Happy birthday my sweet Sadie. I love you so much!

Happy Labor Day

For all of you who actually labor, that is.

Saturday, we went to West Point to visit the Weddle family.  It was Brooklyn's (niece) birthday celebration and we had a great time playing Just Dance on the Wii, hanging outside, and jumping on the trampoline (just the kids...me on a trampoline = an accident just waiting to happen).  Later, we drove home and had a little sleepover (Abby, Anna, Ben).  The girls had a great time with all of the neighborhood kids. 

Ben has become particularly fond of the boy across the street (Andrew, 10).  Yesterday, Andrew whispered into my ear that they are now best friends. So sweet!  This is the boy that catches frogs, crickets, grasshoppers, moths, etc.  Just keep them out of my house! :)  I played a few rounds of hangman with the neighborhood girls, then grilled some turkey sausage for dinner.  I served it with creamed spinach. Ben was less than enthused.  He opted for a handful of fresh spinach instead. No dressing. Just eats it leaf by leaf. Strange.  Ben played outside from 11 til 5! I give him many snacks and drinks throughout the day to keep him going. The only downside is that it is VERY difficult to get him going in the morning, despite an early bed time.

Today, we drive to Omaha to pick up Greg!  He will actually be here for an entire week :)  He will be working at the clinic, but at least we will be able to visit in the evenings.  I don't know how Ben will decide between hanging out with dad or playing outside.  That's some serious competition.

Have a great holiday!

Behind

I am sooo far behind on my blog.  I have been busy, busy, busy.  The house is coming together nicely.  The dogs are back home permanently. Greg and Grandma Deb came in this past weekend and accomplished quite a lot. We continue to have 5 kids at our house/yard every evening (2 boys/3 girls).  This really motivates Ben to finish his homework and dinner in a timely manner :)  I think the girls come over just to play with me! We play board games in the front yard every night.  They are so sweet and loving towards Sadie!  Sadie and I will go to her school today to meet her new paraprofessional and outline her educational goals.  Exciting!  I drove Ben to Lincoln yesterday for his second orthodontist appointment.  He had x-rays and moldings done.  I have no idea when the braces or appliance will be put on.  We have to wait for the consultation appointment.  I was just happy I didn't get lost! How did we ever survive without our GPS?  This weekend I travel to West Point to visit family and the following weekend we celebrate Sadie's 3rd birthday!

It's Almost Friday!

It has been a crazy week around here...

Sadie continues to scream when I leave the room, so I have been able to unpack around 2 boxes this week. Not good.

Ben received a note in his planner reporting he was having some major listening issues.  This was strike 3 for him, so I had to ground him from electronics (1 week of no TV, Wii, computer, DS) and outside time (just one night for the outside time).  This leads to "I'm so bored" about a thousand times, which is a nightmare.  I think (pray) he has learned his lesson, though.  Yesterday, there were no notes and 100's on his homework and reading test.  He played outside for about 5 hours!  The neighborhood kids came over for at least an hour.  I think they come in because I always give them chocolate :) There are two girls who love to play with Sadie and that is sooo nice.  She loves them.  The temps were down last night so Sadie and I spent some time on the front lawn watching everyone ride their scooters.  I met another mom last night who is so nice.  I think I'm up to 7 moms on the block.  I am seriously struggling to remember parent/children names!

Last night I grilled steak and made garlic/parmesan mashed potatoes.  Ben had to finish his meal before going back out to play.  It was hilarious watching those children stand over him, coaching him to scarf it down.  Sometimes he even asks to eat on the porch so he doesn't miss anything.

Today is a full day.  Sadie's therapy team (all 6 of them) meet at the house this morning for a meeting regarding her goals.  Then, I finally get an hour of ME TIME.  Auntie Ann is coming over to watch Sadie. Yay!  Tonight, we have Sadie's orientation at school.  I have loads of paperwork to fill out.

Tomorrow, Greg flies in!  Ann will be picking him up at the airport.  I have a HUGE list for him, but I realize we will only get around to a few things.  Saturday, we are going to Popcorn Days in  North Loup.  It will be nice to hang out with the family.  Sunday, Grandma Deb is coming to drive Greg back to the airport and stay for an extra day to help me out around the house.

I can't believe it's almost September!  Sadie's 3rd birthday is right around the corner.  I have some serious planning to do!

That's all for now.  I need to get started on everything while the kids are still slumbering.

Good News!

Ben's cast was removed yesterday! He now has a velcro splint on, which is such a relief.  He is able to take it off as needed :)  I was tired of giving him baths!  His arm muscles have definitely atrophied, but they will build up in no time.

Ben FINALLY learned to ride a bike.  Grandma Deb bought him a new bike.  We just haven't had the time to teach him, but clearly he did not need any coaching.  It took him 5 seconds to fly away. I cried. Unfortunately, there will not be any bike riding until his wrist is completely healed.  He is only allowed to ride his scooter.

Speaking of his scooter, he is on it ALL THE TIME.  Every child in this neighborhood has a scooter and they spend hours riding them.  Last night, we had an impromptu play date with 5 kids playing Pictureka.  I love this street.  I'm constantly buying snacks and drinks to feed them all. I don't mind at all :)

Greg flies in this weekend! I can't wait! We all miss him so bad.  He texted me this morning saying all that he was missing was me in his arms. So sweet!  There have been some stressful days and some phone arguments, but everything will come together when he finally says goodbye to Texas.

Sadie is having a little bit of separation anxiety (as in "do not leave this room or I will scream"), but that is to be expected with this transition.  She is also having a little GI problem, but Greg mailed our "miracle ointment" to Nebraska and it has made a huge difference on her bottom. Wondering if it is stress or a virus.  She doesn't want to eat, but is drinking well.

Sadie has her team appointment on Thursday. The PT, OT, SLP, coordinator, and teacher will be meeting at our house to discuss the plan of action.  Sadie starts school soon!

We attended church on Sunday.  It was sooo small!  Unfortunately, Ben and Sadie were the only children there.  We will explore a few others, but it was still comforting to read from the BCP and take communion.

We also went to the Columbus Days parade.  It was VERY HOT.  I know that is hard to believe, but it really was.  We left after an hour (Sadie was beet red), but Ben was able to catch some candy and we enjoyed some kettle corn and cold drinks.

No pictures/video for now.  My phone is not cooperating :(

In other news, my sister started her surgical tech program yesterday. I am SO PROUD OF HER!  I know she will love it and surpass all expectations given!

That's all for now :)

Happenings

Sadie had her evaluations for therapy on Wednesday.  There were 5 therapists in her room!



She was a bit overwhelmed, to say the least.  I have already registered her at one school, but am visiting another today based on Auntie Ann's recommendation.  Ann and Katie (her daughter) came to visit yesterday for a few hours and it was so nice!  I need some adult interaction! Once the house is finished, I will branch out and find some play groups, a bible study, etc.

Ben is doing well in school, but forgot his homework yesterday. Luckily, the school was still open and we were able to make it back to his classroom.  The teacher told me he was having some "listening issues".  This is so typical of Ben during the first few weeks of school.  He just wants to talk and interact with everyone.  He has received some stickers for other attributes though, so I am trying to go easy on him for now.  Ben also said he wasn't "very attractive" at this school, meaning he's only met a few friends thus far.  I reminded him that it takes time.  He has met at least 10 friends in the neighborhood, so I don't know why he is worried :)

Last night there was a HUGE storm.  The tornado sirens went off and down we went to the basement.  The kids are a bit tired this morning because we were down there til' 9 or so, but we will try for an earlier bedtime tonight.  Luckily, there was no significant damage and no tornado.

I still have so much to hang and many boxes to unpack, but I am motivated!  Starbucks might be on my list today.



Greetings From Nebraska!

Today...

-I woke to 70 degree weather and realized I needed to pack up the tank tops!

-We have internet and cable!

-I unpacked more boxes and hung more pictures.

-I walked Ben to school (yes, I said walked!).  I am going to continue this for a few days, then let him do it alone (gulp).

-I cried after I walked Ben to school.  Oh, and I cried at the school as well.  The principal and PTO president came up to me to ask if I was ok.  Not the best first impression. This is pretty typical of me, but I feel bad that I have made him change schools for the umpteenth time.

-I watched Ben play outside with 10 children from the neighborhood (more tears).  I am so grateful that we live in a neighborhood with so many children and nice parents.

-I looked at Ben's scabbed face and skinned knees and reminded myself that I am so grateful that we live in a neighborhood with so many children.

-I searched for a yummy Mexican breakfast and was unable to find one :(  I will miss you Mi Casita.

-I looked at Sadie's sweet face and can't believe she will start school in a few weeks.  I will probably collapse in the parking lot after dropping her off. Seriously.  The therapists will come to the school to work with her and she will have a paraprofessional with her at all times.  I am so excited for her!

-I miss my husband.  I call him approximately 15 times per day.

-I am so grateful for my family (Mom, Debbie, Ann, Ron, Melissa x 2) for being so supportive with this transition.

-I looked at the calendar and realized Sadie has all therapies (PT, OT, SLP) coming to evaluate her tomorrow.  My new furniture comes tomorrow as well. Yay!

I think that's all for now! It's good to be back :)

The Day Has Finally Come

Ben broke his arm this morning.  I really thought he would never break anything. He's not into many sports. His main hobbies are reading, watching cartoon network, and legos.  A few days ago, I noticed him climbing a lot - trees, furniture, anything elevated...

This morning, Sadie and I were outside and I heard him screaming.  I ran inside, and he told me he had fallen off the bed headfirst and used his left arm to brace himself.  He had been leaning against the post at the foot of our bed and lost his balance. I initially thought he had just sprained his wrist, but as the wailing became louder and louder, I knew it was broken.  I scrambled to get some shorts on him, some pants on me, and Sadie's diaper bag packed.

We went to Greg's office, and it was a confirmed fracture. Greg splinted him, and he will see the ortho tomorrow for casting.

He is definitely "milking" his condition.  He has a new gumball machine, has watched cartoons ALL DAY, can surprisingly still play Wii and computer games (hmmm...), and has completed no worksheets or read any books.

I am just so glad he is ok :).

A big thanks to our friend Reagan for watching the kids while I went to the store to buy more medicine, baby wipes, and milk.  I will be more prepared for traumas in the future.

Friend Night

Our good friends, Dave, Mary Jane, and Blake visited last night.  The boys have been friends forever and they never leave off where they have been before.  They have both matured so much over the past few years. It is so sweet to watch them play together.  Last night, Blake FINALLY agreed to stay the night :)  I really do not blame him for waiting so long. His family is pretty awesome.  We had pizza, played games, and had a yummy breakfast.  Mary Jane is a few weeks away from seeing her sweet baby girl.  Am I selfish for wanting her to deliver early? Don't aswer.  I just want to hold Amy Beth.

The boys taking a moment from the Wii for a picture. They called this the "two-headed monster" picture.

These goodbyes are becoming hard!





Sapp Dinner And The Dentist

Last night, we had dinner with the Sapp family.  We love this family. Doug (otherwise known as Happy the Clown) had a new pacemaker inserted on Wednesday and came through the procedure with no complications :)

Greg and Doug looked at the xrays for about an hour. I learned a few things...

But, let us get to the important things :)  The meal was fantabulous.  I haven't had a home-cooked meal in approximately 12 days.  Lynette is the BEST cook/baker.  Greg is probably regretting his choice in marriage.

Meatballs

Mashed Cauliflower (think mashed potatoes)

Eggplant Casserole (AMAZING)

Corn

Homemade Ice Cream

Chocolate Cream Pie

When we were leaving, Greg said "You realize, you actually ate 15 meatballs". Oops.

Greg ate a lot as well, including a hefty portion of the dessert, so he didn't really get to me.

Ok, enough about the food.

Reagan will be leaving in February.  She will travel for A YEAR to teach in China. She is AMAZING with children and I have no doubt she will accomplish everything that she desires.  I'm sure she has some hesitancy, but who wouldn't?  I love that she always listens to Him. She is such an inspiration.

In other news...

I took Ben to the dentist earlier in the day.  He was scheduled for August, but I was able to get him in earlier. He talked through the entire visit, which made it a bit longer than planned :)  No issues regarding decay, but they did give him a timer to make sure he brushes for 2 minutes at a time.  I did it with him. I brush  5 times/day (I'm weird), but, I have to say it was difficult to brush that long.  Anyway, FINALLY the dentist addressed orthodontics.  I have been waiting for this discussion for a while.  He will have a consultation next week and we can transfer the records to Nebraska.  He will either have braces or an appliance.  We will see...

I skipped workout this morning in lieu of snuggling with the hubs. Not a good choice considering the 15 meatballs I ate!

Today I...

Woke at 3 am (thanks to Greg's snoring and obvious nightmares - seriously, he screams out in the middle of the night).  He never has any recollection. I'm considering filming him.  Anyway, I get up to use the restroom and trip over the suitcase where I have packed our clothes.  When I say tripped, I mean I'm laid out on the floor and there is blood.  I would like to call it a 7 inch laceration, but that would be too dramatic (and would likely require stitches).  Really, it is a 7 inch scrape, but it still hurts.  I thought I fractured my elbow, but it is just bruised.  Greg examined me and, once again, reminded me I am "the worst patient ever".  I can't blame him. I really am.

I catered to Sadie at 4 am.  She decided she needed to be read to.  Initially it was two books, but then became four.  She was satisfied after four.

Went to the track with my workout buddy at 6 am (a couple of miles and some stands)

Came home and ate a leftover hotdog.  I'm not kidding about demolishing these leftovers.

Fed the children and prepared for speech therapy.

Gave Ben his math worksheet - seriously, he is becoming more strong-willed by the day.  Greg and I are both VERY stubborn. I've said it before.  I keep thinking Ben will realize that I will ALWAYS win the battle, but he's starting to scare me a bit.  He was not allowed to play until he finished it.  He even has a new Lego game that came in the mail today that he purchased with his allowance. He stared and stared at it; then stared at his worksheet; then stared at the game.  It just wasn't worth it to him.  He has used multiple excuses..."I have to use the restroom"..."I'm dehydrated from the pool"...I think I might throw up...I have a nose bleed (ok, this was real and was actually quite a fiasco-I'm talking about a lot of blood).  He even fell asleep in his chair.  So...it is 5 pm and he is almost done with his math worksheet. Not good.  He actually said, "are you going to send me to bed without dinner".  He obviously has seen this on tv, but I assured him I would feed him (I would never deny food), but would definitely send him to bed if he did not complete his worksheet.

Took the kids to the pool after Sadie's nap.  I would have to say that I was a little short-tempered regarding the above, but thought the pool would make everyone happy. Wrong. Sadie screamed the entire time. Even during snack time. I made it through an hour and then it was time to go.  Ben did not take the decision well, but, seriously, everyone was staring as though my child had not been fed/bathed/napped/changed.  Not to mention they "closed the deep end due to lack of lifeguards".  This did not help the situation with Ben.

Printed off bank statements for our loan officer.  I've already done this, but now he wants itemized statements. Do they judge you regarding how much you eat out? I hope not.

Truly miss my dogs.  Our new home does not have a fence.  Of course, I will take them out multiple times per day, but worry about their happiness.  Well, not "their" happiness; only Charlie's. He's definitely a "seeker".  Louis would never run off.  I want a white picket fence, so I'm hoping Greg will get that done :), which is ridiculous because he will have a new job and I can't rightfully beg him to do that.

Contacted Columbus ISD again regarding Ben's school supply list.  They have yet to post it online, and although she said she would email it within the last 5 hours, I've yet to receive any email.  This is the first time I have ever been able to purchase school supplies. I'm excited!

Planned a play date for Ben.

Am praying for a sweet friend tomorrow.  Please keep Doug Sapp in your prayers as he receives a new pacemaker.  Just in case you need a reminder at how special he and his family are to this baby girl...

The Calm After The Storm

Today is strangely quiet.  This weekend was filled with tons of chaos, as my family came to "pack me up".  Maybe it wasn't chaotic...it was just me.  I have to say, my sis, brother-in-law, and mom are awesome.  I tend to shut down during these stressful times and they are always here to pick up the slack. Always.  I think Mom and sis were a bit annoyed as I travelled through "memory lane" with every single closet.   Aaron (BIL) wins the award on packing.  That man packed up half of my house, went to pick up boxes numerous times, looked after the children, and fed Sadie.  He is a superstar in my book.  It is a little humorous to see the multiple liquor store boxes in my garage..whiskey, beer, vodka -- you name it, it's in there.  The movers will certainly refer me to a program.

I haven't done much today. Just worked out, did a few loads of laundry, made the beds, fed my children. The important stuff.  I did read Ben his Compassion newsletter regarding Uganda.  We had a 30 minute discussion about the hardships that these people go through, how very lucky we are, and why it is important to sponsor these sweet children who are less fortunate.  I quizzed him afterward (that's just what I do) and he was able to answer everything quickly.  And then, he said "BACK TO THE SUNDAY COMICS!"  Um, ok.  All I can do is try.

Tomorrow, I will be more productive.  I really need to clean post pack-up, attempt to make a meal (in the microwave), go to the bank and post office and take the children to the pool.

P.S. I did make Greg some chocolate-covered strawberries and took them to the office. Not really a meal, but it took a little effort :)  Seriously, everytime I take Sadie up to his office she starts yelling "da da da da" when she sees him and loves on him for the few minutes she has.  He always throws her up in the air a few times and she is content upon the exit :)  She did say "mom" a couple of times this past week, so I'm hopeful, but, as I've said before, I'm not the "fun" parent. I'm the one who puts on the glasses, puts her in the standing frame, tries to help her crawl, does feeding therapy. NOT FUN. I totally get it :)  I wouldn't like me either.

Too Cool For The Pool!

Summer 2011

Summer has consisted of....

Lots of swimming

Library time

Lunar golf

Lowe's Build and Grow series

Laundry

Language Arts/Math/Mind-Bender worksheets for Ben

Lots of stress on Mom and Dad regarding this BIG move

Good News! We have a house!  I would post a pic, but they have already taken it off the website.

Bad News! We have yet to sell our house :(  If we cannot sell within 6 months, we will will rent to a deserving family.

Good News! My family, including sis, brother-in-law, mom, and nephews are all coming this weekend for their last visit before we leave for Nebraska.

We close on our house 8/4/11. Hard to believe!

Ben building his tow truck at Lowes

Sadie at the library



Happenings

There has been so much going on over the past two weeks!  I would have posted sooner, but our internet has been down.  The reason is so embarrassing.  I called the cable company this morning to find out the reason and asked for someone to come out.  They told me I was past due on my account and they were slowly disconnecting everything. What?! I must have accidentally thrown the cable bill out with the "trash mail".  I just pay bills as they come and never really record what has/hasn't been paid.  Greg was relatively nice about the situation :) We are up and running now!

Last week, we travelled to Nebraska to look at houses and visit with family.  We stayed with Greg's aunt and uncle in Columbus. They were so hospitable!  I'm so lucky to have married into such a nice family.  We met with the physicians he will be working with, went to a waterpark with Greg's family, met with realtors and bankers, and had some great "down time" with the family at Ron and Ann's house.
It was a great trip until Sadie had a meltdown on the way home (maybe she wanted to stay in Columbus?).  After 2 hours of screaming, we quickly booked a hotel room in Oklahoma City.  It was a perfect solution.  She finally calmed down after swimming in the indoor pool for 2 hours, passed out, and didn't wake until 7 the next morning.

We finally made it home Sunday evening.  The unloading began. That is never fun, but everything is washed and put away :)

July 4th snuck up on us.  Greg had to work, but I grilled hamburgers, made potato salad, and bought watermelon.  We ate outside in the sweltering heat (103).  Greg made it home around 8:30 and we went outside and lit sparklers, smoke bombs, and these little chickens that lay eggs (really, they just explode).  I let Ben pick out the fireworks.  We aren't legally able to shoot anything big in our back yard, so we were limited in our choices.

A few pics...

Sadie sported a ponytail today! Ben making one of his goofy faces. Sadie with a mouthful of watermelon. Sadie decides to wear her dress as a toga :)

Happy Friday!

Our new dinnerware arrived last night! You know you're old when you get excited about new plates.  We have been using the same dinnerware for 9 years.  Everything was chipped or MIA (remember when Sadie broke 3 plates within 48 hours?) I ordered 3, 4 piece settings (one will stay boxed until we need it).  I love the set! Sadie will be eating from a paper plate. :)

Keipersol

I know Greg forgot our anniversary (he says he did not). There was a serious look of fear on his face when I handed him an anniversary card that morning.  He more than made up for it with roses, 3 cards, a manicure, and dinner reservations.


We celebrated our anniversary with a trip to Keipersol Winery.  It was an hour trip, but well worth it!  Apparently, it is the go-to place for anniversaries. Every couple there (there were only 5) were celebrating.

I love the fire extinguisher in the background!

Want to know what we ordered? I thought so.

Greg: Duck Cigars (fried cigar-like pieces stuffed with duck with a side of plum sauce and corn/jalepeno relish)
Lamb with mint sauce and Lyonnaise potatoes
A glass of Merlot (he couldn't even drink the whole glass...what a lightweight!)

Sarah: House salad (greens, goat cheese, pecans, balsamic vinaigrette).  I could eat goat cheese every day.  Greg says we can buy a goat when we arrive in Nebraska :)
Seabass with vegetables and creamed spinach
A glass of Vit and Pinot Grigio and the rest of Greg's glass (not a lightweight)

We had a great time!

9th Anniversary

Some people would say, "I can't believe it's already been nine years, but not me".  We have had so many ups and downs these past nine years.  Greg went back to school, we moved back to Longview, our daughter was born with disabilities, and we are on the brink of a new journey. No matter any difficult situation, we always come through together.  I love my husband.  I love the man and father that he is.  There will always be stressful situations, but that is our life. We do it together.  I look back at these wedding photos and remember how terrified I was, yet so excited about our new life together.  I know with all of my heart that we will be together forever.  I knew it the moment I saw him :)


1 Corinthians 13:4-10 

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. ...

I must say, I am rarely patient and sometimes I'm not kind and sometimes I'm rude and sometimes I am irritable and resentful, but I will continue to try, try, try to be the best wife to Greg.

Another Pool Day

Today, we went to the pool again.  This time, Ben was able to come along.  He passed the swim test to be able to go into the adult section and jump off the diving board and was tall enough (just barely) to use the slide.  This has been such an issue for us in past years.  Every year, he has walked up to that measuring stick and turned around with his head hanging low.  When I saw the expression on his face, tears started to fall.  I knew he had finally reached the height level. I was so afraid that after three years he would be denied again.  However, we had a serious talk regarding the rules of the pool before we arrived.  He knew that if he wasn't tall enough, that was it - no questions.  He is so much more mature this year than last, so I knew he could handle it. Luckily, we didn't get to that point.

He always needs at least two snacks while we swim :)  Today, it was chips and a cherry limeade ice pop.  We stayed for two hours today, but will try to stay longer next time.

Sadie had two therapy appointments this morning, so she and I are a little worn out, but too bad. Tonight we have an end of season Cub Scout event at the park. Greg is working tonight, so he can't be there.  One thing I can guarantee?  We will all be in bed early tonight (and I am not cooking)!