A morning of lessons and painting and walks in the woods. After lessons, Austin had to work on some Boy Scout requirements that he needed help with while Savannah and Jack helped clean up the kitchen. We got our things together and headed out the door. We picked up 2 of the boys' friends from their school and got everyone to their Martial Arts classes.
Savannah and I headed over to Barnes and Noble. We sat and read our new books while sipping our favorite coffee-like beverages. After we had read and caffeinated ourselves to our hearts content we went to watch the guys at their class. She really would rather do just about anything than to sit in Martial Arts and watch the boys' lessons, but I don't hold it against her, because they act as though they are being put to death, when they have to watch her at dance class. It evens out. Thomasina came by and watched the guys do their thing for a bit. They LOVE to have an audience! The jiu jitsu stuff just blows my mind. You are NOT gonna wanna mess with these boys. Seriously.
Austin and I watched the Presidents State of the Union Address. I could not be more proud of the President of my country. Thank-you, Mr.President for understanding what it means to protect our freedom. Thank-you also, for inspiring my child.
Well, baseball season is almost upon us. We found out today that Austin will get to play for Dixie Boys Baseball as well as for the varsity team at New Covenant Schools (Griffons). He is immensely excited about these opportunities. And as for y'all, you know what that means. It means that my blog will be saturated with baseball pictures, because Jack will be playing too.
The long days and nights are getting to me. I need to get myself on a better schedule, start working out, and taking my vitamins more regularly. Hmmm.. Probably should get on that.
G’night,
Melissa
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Monday, January 30, 2006
Guess what happened this morning? Austin fixed french toast for breakfast. REAL french toast. Using french bread , eggs, milk cinnamon, and everything! Thank-you Boy Scouts!! It was DELICIOUS! And I didn't lift a finger. And aside from the stereotypical little brother saying , "something just doesn't smell right" before he gobbled it down................EVERYONE loved it!
After Savannah's dance class tonight, we swung by Lowes for another bucket o' paint. I'm still painting, but I think that I can see the finish line: A ceiling and a stairway to go! (and then there's all that TRIM, but I won't think about that now...)
Speaking of dance class.....I watched Savanna's class tonight. She is growing up so fast. She just looked so pretty and tall, with her hair all pulled pack in a pony tail. (sniff, sniff) Where does the time go?
I will leave you with a riddle that Austin was given by an assistant Scout master on the camping trip. We are totally stumped, so please feel free to give it your best shot.
What we catch, we throw away,
What we cannot catch, we keep.
What is it?
Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?
One more coat of paint, and then I'm off to bed,
G'night,
Melissa
After Savannah's dance class tonight, we swung by Lowes for another bucket o' paint. I'm still painting, but I think that I can see the finish line: A ceiling and a stairway to go! (and then there's all that TRIM, but I won't think about that now...)
Speaking of dance class.....I watched Savanna's class tonight. She is growing up so fast. She just looked so pretty and tall, with her hair all pulled pack in a pony tail. (sniff, sniff) Where does the time go?
I will leave you with a riddle that Austin was given by an assistant Scout master on the camping trip. We are totally stumped, so please feel free to give it your best shot.
What we catch, we throw away,
What we cannot catch, we keep.
What is it?
Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?
One more coat of paint, and then I'm off to bed,
G'night,
Melissa
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Tolkein and Lewis
As I prepare our lesson plans for this week, a few things have come to mind. You know, Austin has been reading through the Lord of the Rings. He has read these before,( and to say that he LOVES them would not be stating it too strongly) but this time it is required reading for lessons. He is having to go through them analytically. To pick them apart, and try to judge what the author is getting at, and how that relates to his worldview. He must learn about the time in which the author wrote as well, and how that colors his outlook. What is the author trying to make him, the reader, believe? And figure out if, indeed he DOES believe it.
One of the first things that came up in analyzing these books, was the comparison/contrast with C.S. Lewis' "Chronilcles of Narnia".
I won't go through all of our discussion, here, but I became incredibly grateful that my world is a C.S. Lewis(who was a Protestant Christian) world. One in which I, (the poor and pathetic Edmund) have nothing to give. There is nothing in my hand, I am worthless, and deserve the punishment of death. But it was Grace. A most precious sacrificial GIFT, that I could never have attained on my own. Grace was Given.
In Tolkein's world, (who was a Catholic Christian) Grace isn't really seen. Frodo works against the forces of evil and ultimately climbs Mt. Doom to destroy it. (However, spending a little time in Middle Earth certainly makes us think more about how we treat others, and reminds us to be more charitable in our thoughts and dealings).
So, I guess that while both worlds are definitely Christian places, it's that the picture of the mighty Aslan being slain for a pathetic Edmund, is just such an amazing picture of God's Grace.
I am so thankful for this literature, for the Christian men who wrote it and for being able to search it with my children. I can see the lights turning on in their minds as they begin to look through the eyes of those who lived long ago, enabling them to see their own world with a much clearer vision. It is my sincere desire that rather than running and hiding from sin, (which is of course, impossible), that they would search and learn the way in which God would have them to DEAL with it. To FIGHT evil, SLAY it, rather than hide in their own little hut and hope it doesn't come looking for them.
Good lessons. Good for us all.
G'night,
Melissa
One of the first things that came up in analyzing these books, was the comparison/contrast with C.S. Lewis' "Chronilcles of Narnia".
I won't go through all of our discussion, here, but I became incredibly grateful that my world is a C.S. Lewis(who was a Protestant Christian) world. One in which I, (the poor and pathetic Edmund) have nothing to give. There is nothing in my hand, I am worthless, and deserve the punishment of death. But it was Grace. A most precious sacrificial GIFT, that I could never have attained on my own. Grace was Given.
In Tolkein's world, (who was a Catholic Christian) Grace isn't really seen. Frodo works against the forces of evil and ultimately climbs Mt. Doom to destroy it. (However, spending a little time in Middle Earth certainly makes us think more about how we treat others, and reminds us to be more charitable in our thoughts and dealings).
So, I guess that while both worlds are definitely Christian places, it's that the picture of the mighty Aslan being slain for a pathetic Edmund, is just such an amazing picture of God's Grace.
I am so thankful for this literature, for the Christian men who wrote it and for being able to search it with my children. I can see the lights turning on in their minds as they begin to look through the eyes of those who lived long ago, enabling them to see their own world with a much clearer vision. It is my sincere desire that rather than running and hiding from sin, (which is of course, impossible), that they would search and learn the way in which God would have them to DEAL with it. To FIGHT evil, SLAY it, rather than hide in their own little hut and hope it doesn't come looking for them.
Good lessons. Good for us all.
G'night,
Melissa
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Watching Paint Dry
Austin is with his Boy Scout troop on a camping trip, (they have one each month!) and won't be back till Sunday after church. The boys were going to be hiking, working on cooking skills(you should see the menu that that they were going to be teaching these boys to prepare!) and doing some orienteering (map and compass).
Last night,at the drop off point for the scouts, our pastor and his wife stopped me and asked if they could take me out to dinner! How Sweet! Of course, I had to decline, because it was Savannah's birthday and we had already made some plans, and Jack still wasn't up to par, but I took a rain check. That was just so nice of them. They know that Race is away, and it just means so much that they thought of us. What a blessing this church is to me.
Savannah, Jack and I decided to try to spend a quiet Saturday at home. We made home made pizza and cookies. Jack has played with Lego's for about 8 hours straight(Oh, and he looks less like the elephant boy today). Savannah has been in and out drawing, journaling, working on her book on the computer, and playing with Jack. We took several walks outside today.
Among all of this relaxed activity, I have been painting up a storm. After finally making a decision on the new paint color,(AGAIN), I got started.( How many coats of paint can a wall hold???) The new color is "Ice Rink Blue".It is very pale and icy, with enough grey in it that it isn't TOO blue. I LOVE it! I ended up painting the cieling too. The same color! It looks smashing! I am shooting for a more European look, with clean lines.....and less STUFF). The living room and one hallway are done, except for the trim, which is all white, and must be done after the walls are really dry. I still have to finish the dining room and the stairway + those cielings. It is amazing how much bigger the house feels already. We are saying good-bye to our nasty carpet in another month and getting new floors as well as new fixtures, so that should really make a difference. I still have A LOT to do though, and it is going to take some time. I want to get things completed on the inside, because my thought are already beginning to turn to gardening! But I can honestly say that it brings me great pleasure tonight, just sitting and watching paint dry! (BTW, I'll post before and after pics when we are all done.)
I have heard from Race, and all is well. He sent us a few incredible pictures of his surroundings. Amazing. We miss him so much, and just can't wait to see him again. Race is so fun, and we miss that around here. Stay safe, Race. Come home.
I am looking forward to church in the morning, and then picking up my tired boy scout afterward. The rest of the day will be spent relaxing as well as getting lesson plans done for the week.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Melissa
Last night,at the drop off point for the scouts, our pastor and his wife stopped me and asked if they could take me out to dinner! How Sweet! Of course, I had to decline, because it was Savannah's birthday and we had already made some plans, and Jack still wasn't up to par, but I took a rain check. That was just so nice of them. They know that Race is away, and it just means so much that they thought of us. What a blessing this church is to me.
Savannah, Jack and I decided to try to spend a quiet Saturday at home. We made home made pizza and cookies. Jack has played with Lego's for about 8 hours straight(Oh, and he looks less like the elephant boy today). Savannah has been in and out drawing, journaling, working on her book on the computer, and playing with Jack. We took several walks outside today.
Among all of this relaxed activity, I have been painting up a storm. After finally making a decision on the new paint color,(AGAIN), I got started.( How many coats of paint can a wall hold???) The new color is "Ice Rink Blue".It is very pale and icy, with enough grey in it that it isn't TOO blue. I LOVE it! I ended up painting the cieling too. The same color! It looks smashing! I am shooting for a more European look, with clean lines.....and less STUFF). The living room and one hallway are done, except for the trim, which is all white, and must be done after the walls are really dry. I still have to finish the dining room and the stairway + those cielings. It is amazing how much bigger the house feels already. We are saying good-bye to our nasty carpet in another month and getting new floors as well as new fixtures, so that should really make a difference. I still have A LOT to do though, and it is going to take some time. I want to get things completed on the inside, because my thought are already beginning to turn to gardening! But I can honestly say that it brings me great pleasure tonight, just sitting and watching paint dry! (BTW, I'll post before and after pics when we are all done.)
I have heard from Race, and all is well. He sent us a few incredible pictures of his surroundings. Amazing. We miss him so much, and just can't wait to see him again. Race is so fun, and we miss that around here. Stay safe, Race. Come home.
I am looking forward to church in the morning, and then picking up my tired boy scout afterward. The rest of the day will be spent relaxing as well as getting lesson plans done for the week.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Melissa
Friday, January 27, 2006
Whoo! I can't believe it is Friday already!
This week has definitely had it's difficulties, including an emergency trip to the dentist for Jack with an absessed tooth. His face is still swollen(He looks so pitiful!), but the antibiotics are taking effect, so that the pressure has been relieved. Also this week, I painted 3 walls in my living room "Spruce Frost", which, as it turns out is REALLY a cotton-candy blue. I will be sending Race a picture of this newly painted living room. Have I told you that this room WAS a "holly berry" red? Have I told you that it had Race's prized buck displayed proudly above his chair, and that the walls were donned with civil war prints? I should probably send a message with the picture that I email to Race. Something like: "Look, honey- I've painted our home to look like a giant confectionary Easter egg while you were away."
So, anyway, I have gone BACK to the paint store and am currently going color blind staring at all of the shades that are taped to my walls.
Did y'all remember about Frodo( the beloved goldfish?) dying? I recommended the usual, ritual flushing, in which we all gather around the toilet, I say a few words in memory of the lost loved one, and "SWOOSH!" on to the happy swimming waters, where all good fish go. Upon my recommendation, however,a sick Jack sat up and looked at me in horror. "Mom! That's BARBARIC! Frodo was a CHRISTIAN fish!" SO. It seems that poor Frodo would have a proper Christian burial. (sigh) Austin was kind enough to donate a small, plastic containter with an airtight lid, in which Frodo was lovingly placed.
NOW. With Jack getting all of the tooth problems, the funeral had to be postponed. This, in turn, brought about a bit of an experiment in cryogenics. Yeah. That's right. He's in my freezer. There has been talk of "raising" Frodo some time in the distant future.........and of course, "Bionics" has been discussed. Or maybe using the DNA from Frodo to increase the lifespans of fish everywhere. (Cause that would be helpful, right). And of course the baseball connection: Frodo and Ted Williams.
(Huge sigh) All I can say is that I still have to prepare a eulogy, and that this is the kind of crap that happens when kids aren't raised on a farm! * Can you eat goldfish?*
Have a great weekend!
Melissa
This week has definitely had it's difficulties, including an emergency trip to the dentist for Jack with an absessed tooth. His face is still swollen(He looks so pitiful!), but the antibiotics are taking effect, so that the pressure has been relieved. Also this week, I painted 3 walls in my living room "Spruce Frost", which, as it turns out is REALLY a cotton-candy blue. I will be sending Race a picture of this newly painted living room. Have I told you that this room WAS a "holly berry" red? Have I told you that it had Race's prized buck displayed proudly above his chair, and that the walls were donned with civil war prints? I should probably send a message with the picture that I email to Race. Something like: "Look, honey- I've painted our home to look like a giant confectionary Easter egg while you were away."
So, anyway, I have gone BACK to the paint store and am currently going color blind staring at all of the shades that are taped to my walls.
Did y'all remember about Frodo( the beloved goldfish?) dying? I recommended the usual, ritual flushing, in which we all gather around the toilet, I say a few words in memory of the lost loved one, and "SWOOSH!" on to the happy swimming waters, where all good fish go. Upon my recommendation, however,a sick Jack sat up and looked at me in horror. "Mom! That's BARBARIC! Frodo was a CHRISTIAN fish!" SO. It seems that poor Frodo would have a proper Christian burial. (sigh) Austin was kind enough to donate a small, plastic containter with an airtight lid, in which Frodo was lovingly placed.
NOW. With Jack getting all of the tooth problems, the funeral had to be postponed. This, in turn, brought about a bit of an experiment in cryogenics. Yeah. That's right. He's in my freezer. There has been talk of "raising" Frodo some time in the distant future.........and of course, "Bionics" has been discussed. Or maybe using the DNA from Frodo to increase the lifespans of fish everywhere. (Cause that would be helpful, right). And of course the baseball connection: Frodo and Ted Williams.
(Huge sigh) All I can say is that I still have to prepare a eulogy, and that this is the kind of crap that happens when kids aren't raised on a farm! * Can you eat goldfish?*
Have a great weekend!
Melissa
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
I am Dog Tired and I want My Husband Home!
There. I'm done.
When Race leaves, I spend the first few weeks without sleep. I am just all wound up, and my mind is racing( no pun intended) and I can't relax. So, last night, to fight the insomnia......or rather, give in to the insomnia, I Started my living room remodel. I spackled, sanded and primed all the walls. Before they went to bed, the boys helped me sand and prime. Then, at about 11:30, I hear footsteps down the stairs. It's Jack. He comes running over and flops down beside me and says, "Oh, mom, I just can't BEAR you down here working by yourself. I MUST help you!" I did let him help for a few minutes, before assuring him that I was fine, and that I was actually enjoying myself, and he could go back upstairs and sleep. Too funny. So my once RED walls are now white. And they are awaiting a couple of coats of "Spruce Frost".
We got through school today around 2:00, and all was fine. Nothing to jump and shout about, but fine. We all got outside for a bit in the nice weather. I had an hour to finish touching up the walls, before we had to leave for martial arts, etc. It is now 8:26 pm and we have just walked through the door. I. Am. Beat. So, the walls may have to wait for another day.
I will have to hault this post in progress. I have just been informed by a teary eyed 8 yr old, that his beloved fish Frodo has..............died. Frodo has been with us for 5 yrs, and accompnied us through a couple of moves. Soooooooo, I must go and preside over the funeral arrangements. The grieving has commenced.
G'night,
melissa
When Race leaves, I spend the first few weeks without sleep. I am just all wound up, and my mind is racing( no pun intended) and I can't relax. So, last night, to fight the insomnia......or rather, give in to the insomnia, I Started my living room remodel. I spackled, sanded and primed all the walls. Before they went to bed, the boys helped me sand and prime. Then, at about 11:30, I hear footsteps down the stairs. It's Jack. He comes running over and flops down beside me and says, "Oh, mom, I just can't BEAR you down here working by yourself. I MUST help you!" I did let him help for a few minutes, before assuring him that I was fine, and that I was actually enjoying myself, and he could go back upstairs and sleep. Too funny. So my once RED walls are now white. And they are awaiting a couple of coats of "Spruce Frost".
We got through school today around 2:00, and all was fine. Nothing to jump and shout about, but fine. We all got outside for a bit in the nice weather. I had an hour to finish touching up the walls, before we had to leave for martial arts, etc. It is now 8:26 pm and we have just walked through the door. I. Am. Beat. So, the walls may have to wait for another day.
I will have to hault this post in progress. I have just been informed by a teary eyed 8 yr old, that his beloved fish Frodo has..............died. Frodo has been with us for 5 yrs, and accompnied us through a couple of moves. Soooooooo, I must go and preside over the funeral arrangements. The grieving has commenced.
G'night,
melissa
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Savannah says "Thanks so much for all the birthday wishes".
We had a fabulous time! I don't think that I could have had a better group of girls to take along to the water park. They were FABULOUS! When I take my boys and their friends around, I pull up the doors of the suburban fly open, and boys pile in..(without bothering to move the seat back...they just crawl over). They are loaded and talking loudly within seconds.
The GIRLS however, were different. I pull up. One door opens. the girls all exchange pleasantries, and then stand OUTSIDE the vehicle over-politely offering each other a seat. This continues for a bit, and then finally all the girls are happily seated, buckled in, and chit chatting among themselves quietly. They talked about books and school and music. They told ghost stories. They listened to some of Thom's Jammin' Mix For The Road. At the water park the girls were just perfect. Not a minutes trouble out of anyone. They all got along beautifully. They were smart, articulate,polite, kind, and just a ton of fun. They were really a joy to be around. I am so thankful that Savannah has made these wonderful friends.
We left the house yesterday morning at 9:00 am and we returned at 9:30 pm. LONG DAY! Many Thanks to Thomasina for going along and getting pics of the girls, and generally just making the day so much fun for Savannah. (I'll post a few pics soon).
This morning I got the sleepy headed girls up for Sunday School and church. Everyone asked about Race and reminded me that they were praying for him, which was really(REALLY) nice. I think that one of the things that I love most about this church, is the sense of community that they promote. This church really fills a gap for us.
After church, mom and dad met me at my house with the boys in tow. They had a wonderful weekend, and managed to get several signed baseballs from major league players, as well as some top notch instruction. They had a wonderful time and were bubbling over with stories to tell. We ate lunch with mom and dad, and my WONDERFUL dad drove the Scalded Dog to the dump loaded with all my garbage! What a dad! I can't tell you how much that helps me along. Thanks, dad.
Tonight, I have filled out my lesson plans and feel pretty prepared for the week ahead. I am excited to get started on our little remodeling projects that we have planned for around the house, as well as getting back into our routine for the weeks ahead.
I have heard from Race and things are going along as planned. We've had a good weekend, and I have a heart full of thanks tonight.
G'night,
Melissa
We had a fabulous time! I don't think that I could have had a better group of girls to take along to the water park. They were FABULOUS! When I take my boys and their friends around, I pull up the doors of the suburban fly open, and boys pile in..(without bothering to move the seat back...they just crawl over). They are loaded and talking loudly within seconds.
The GIRLS however, were different. I pull up. One door opens. the girls all exchange pleasantries, and then stand OUTSIDE the vehicle over-politely offering each other a seat. This continues for a bit, and then finally all the girls are happily seated, buckled in, and chit chatting among themselves quietly. They talked about books and school and music. They told ghost stories. They listened to some of Thom's Jammin' Mix For The Road. At the water park the girls were just perfect. Not a minutes trouble out of anyone. They all got along beautifully. They were smart, articulate,polite, kind, and just a ton of fun. They were really a joy to be around. I am so thankful that Savannah has made these wonderful friends.
We left the house yesterday morning at 9:00 am and we returned at 9:30 pm. LONG DAY! Many Thanks to Thomasina for going along and getting pics of the girls, and generally just making the day so much fun for Savannah. (I'll post a few pics soon).
This morning I got the sleepy headed girls up for Sunday School and church. Everyone asked about Race and reminded me that they were praying for him, which was really(REALLY) nice. I think that one of the things that I love most about this church, is the sense of community that they promote. This church really fills a gap for us.
After church, mom and dad met me at my house with the boys in tow. They had a wonderful weekend, and managed to get several signed baseballs from major league players, as well as some top notch instruction. They had a wonderful time and were bubbling over with stories to tell. We ate lunch with mom and dad, and my WONDERFUL dad drove the Scalded Dog to the dump loaded with all my garbage! What a dad! I can't tell you how much that helps me along. Thanks, dad.
Tonight, I have filled out my lesson plans and feel pretty prepared for the week ahead. I am excited to get started on our little remodeling projects that we have planned for around the house, as well as getting back into our routine for the weeks ahead.
I have heard from Race and things are going along as planned. We've had a good weekend, and I have a heart full of thanks tonight.
G'night,
Melissa
Friday, January 20, 2006
Mom and Dad came for a visit today, and they picked up the boys to take them to a baseball seminar this weekend. It was great to see them, but they NEVER stay long enough! They picked up one of the cousins, A., and brought her along, so that she could spend the night here this weekend, and help Savannah celebrate her birthday.
Tomorrow I head to the indoor water park with 4 pre-teen girls in tow. Thankfully, I have been able to rope Thomasina into coming along with us. We'll see how it goes. The girls are all really excited. Gotta run, cause we'll be on the road bright and early tomorrow.
G'night,
Melissa
Tomorrow I head to the indoor water park with 4 pre-teen girls in tow. Thankfully, I have been able to rope Thomasina into coming along with us. We'll see how it goes. The girls are all really excited. Gotta run, cause we'll be on the road bright and early tomorrow.
G'night,
Melissa
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Austin??????
Well, you can move this to the top of the "10 Things That I Never Thought I'd Hear" list. Austin and his buddies (from scouts) are thinking about...................a BAND! A Band??? It seems that his buddy is in percussion at school. He is getting a complete, really nice drum set tomorrow. The kids brother is taking guitar. He wants Austin to pick it back up, so that they can get a band started. Are you reading this Race????
What did I say? I did what anyone would do. I said, "Sure! Y'all would be great!"
G'night,
Melissa
What did I say? I did what anyone would do. I said, "Sure! Y'all would be great!"
G'night,
Melissa
The Bat Patrol Flag! Yes, your eyes are correct. That IS part of a deer skull with antlers attached. Yeah. We had some layin' around........Anyway, what a HIT! The Patrol loved it, and it was the best flag there! woo-hoo! Way to go A! He was really proud of it, because he did the whole thing himself.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
This morning started out with putting the finishing touches on the birthday party invitations that I was helping Savannah with. They turned out really cute, and we got them in the mail this morning. (Incidently, these WILL NOT be timely,as the party is Saturday, so I had already talked with the moms, and all the girls can make it ;0) ). We are taking the girls to an indoor water park for the day. Should be a lot of fun! Thomasina is going with us too, so I should have pictures! School was thrown in here and there today, but not overly productive. But I don't really expect it to be, until next week. It always takes us a week to get settled again. Austin spent the better part of the day finishing up the patrol flag for his Scout patrol. It is WAY COOL! I'll post a picture of it when it totally complete.
I got a huge pat on the back today. One of the boys' martial arts coaches pulled me aside to tell me what a joy the guys were to have in class. He said that they were good examples. That they were hard workers, and if they had a question, they asked. He also said that they are always willing to help out anyone else in class. His exact words were, "Y'all are doing something right there." Wow. I really needed that. What a nice thing to take the time to say, ya know? I think that this is one of those Pay it Forward opportunities. I know a lot of great kids, but all too often, I don't take the time to tell their parents about it. I think that I will make an effort to do that much more often. And, yes, I am proud of my boys for earning that compliment. It seems that there is much more to them than just their good looks and bodily function noises........huh.
Well, I am going to herd everyone to bed, and then I am headed there myself. Well, after I watch My Name Is Earl, that TIVO is saving for me. Have y'all seen that??? Funniest show on TV. Heck, I feel like I know a lot of the characters personally......ya know, from around here where I live. I LOVE that show!!!
G'night,
Melissa
I got a huge pat on the back today. One of the boys' martial arts coaches pulled me aside to tell me what a joy the guys were to have in class. He said that they were good examples. That they were hard workers, and if they had a question, they asked. He also said that they are always willing to help out anyone else in class. His exact words were, "Y'all are doing something right there." Wow. I really needed that. What a nice thing to take the time to say, ya know? I think that this is one of those Pay it Forward opportunities. I know a lot of great kids, but all too often, I don't take the time to tell their parents about it. I think that I will make an effort to do that much more often. And, yes, I am proud of my boys for earning that compliment. It seems that there is much more to them than just their good looks and bodily function noises........huh.
Well, I am going to herd everyone to bed, and then I am headed there myself. Well, after I watch My Name Is Earl, that TIVO is saving for me. Have y'all seen that??? Funniest show on TV. Heck, I feel like I know a lot of the characters personally......ya know, from around here where I live. I LOVE that show!!!
G'night,
Melissa
Monday, January 16, 2006
Parting IS such sweet sorrow! I handed my 14 yr old boy the camera, and THIS is what I found on it tonight. I didn't know he took it. We Miss You Race! So much.
Whenever we see Race off for a trip, I say the same thing:
"Be careful. Come home. Don't worry about us, we're fine. We love you. I love you.........Come home."
I say the exact same thing every time. And I don't cry. No one wants to see crying, weepy, weakness, when you are about to leave. And I don't EVER want him to worry about us. THINK about us, sure. But not WORRY. His mind needs to be on his work. It HAS to be on his work. So, I don't want him to worry. And when I think about being a child, it would unnerve me to see my mother break down, so I don't do it. I dry tears, I don't cry them.....at least not on departures. Race and the kids and I all know how we feel, so in the words of my dad, "I dunno what good cryin's gonna do about it."
But, I love the picture. It was a nice surprise. Thanks, Austin.
Whenever we see Race off for a trip, I say the same thing:
"Be careful. Come home. Don't worry about us, we're fine. We love you. I love you.........Come home."
I say the exact same thing every time. And I don't cry. No one wants to see crying, weepy, weakness, when you are about to leave. And I don't EVER want him to worry about us. THINK about us, sure. But not WORRY. His mind needs to be on his work. It HAS to be on his work. So, I don't want him to worry. And when I think about being a child, it would unnerve me to see my mother break down, so I don't do it. I dry tears, I don't cry them.....at least not on departures. Race and the kids and I all know how we feel, so in the words of my dad, "I dunno what good cryin's gonna do about it."
But, I love the picture. It was a nice surprise. Thanks, Austin.
So....how many of us are pacing back and forth in the waiting room waiting for Dy's baby to be born? Many prayers headed their way I'm sure.
I am slowly getting into the groove here. Race is where he is supposed to be, so that's always a relief to hear. The kids and I have many projects to keep us busy while he is gone. So, we'll concentrate on those awhile.
My youngest has a knack for almost getting killed daily by his older brother and sister. And I can promise you this....if they were ANY OTHER brother or sister, they would have done him in long ago.
Do you know how to get on your big brother's nerves? Well, you COULD dance around in your underwear in front of the Play Station game, while playing on your harmonica. Letting repeated pleasant requests for you to "move please", embolden you to play louder and dance harder.
Do you know how to get on your Big Sister's nerves? Well, you could crouch at the closed door to her room and use two fingers to scratch ever so softly at the bottom of said door, so that sis thinks it is her beloved cat wanting to come in, and then roll around laughing abnoxiously when she answers it. Or you could constantly threaten that, while she is sleeping, you will remove the keys to her diary, which she wears around her neck and then you will know her deepest secrets.
Honestly, I don't know why they don't just pound him. It seems that there is just enough age difference between them for the older two to find him slightly funny. It saves his life I think. I think that humor may be his saving grace throughout life. I mean let's face it. Funny covers a whole lotta crap, ya know? I mean, if you've got "funny".....you've really got somethin'. This is a kid who can make fart noises with the backs of both knees at the same time. At the ripe old age of 8, this is like the mother of all party tricks! By all indications, this child will be good looking as well. Hmmmmm.......too much?
A mother worries.........
Hey! I updated my side bar! I can't figure out why Jess' link won't work. It looks right. anyone?
Have a great night!
Melissa
I am slowly getting into the groove here. Race is where he is supposed to be, so that's always a relief to hear. The kids and I have many projects to keep us busy while he is gone. So, we'll concentrate on those awhile.
My youngest has a knack for almost getting killed daily by his older brother and sister. And I can promise you this....if they were ANY OTHER brother or sister, they would have done him in long ago.
Do you know how to get on your big brother's nerves? Well, you COULD dance around in your underwear in front of the Play Station game, while playing on your harmonica. Letting repeated pleasant requests for you to "move please", embolden you to play louder and dance harder.
Do you know how to get on your Big Sister's nerves? Well, you could crouch at the closed door to her room and use two fingers to scratch ever so softly at the bottom of said door, so that sis thinks it is her beloved cat wanting to come in, and then roll around laughing abnoxiously when she answers it. Or you could constantly threaten that, while she is sleeping, you will remove the keys to her diary, which she wears around her neck and then you will know her deepest secrets.
Honestly, I don't know why they don't just pound him. It seems that there is just enough age difference between them for the older two to find him slightly funny. It saves his life I think. I think that humor may be his saving grace throughout life. I mean let's face it. Funny covers a whole lotta crap, ya know? I mean, if you've got "funny".....you've really got somethin'. This is a kid who can make fart noises with the backs of both knees at the same time. At the ripe old age of 8, this is like the mother of all party tricks! By all indications, this child will be good looking as well. Hmmmmm.......too much?
A mother worries.........
Hey! I updated my side bar! I can't figure out why Jess' link won't work. It looks right. anyone?
Have a great night!
Melissa
Saturday, January 14, 2006
I should'a been a Navy Seal....
Yes, that's right. I should have been a Navy Seal, because I just endured Hell Week. And survived. I did NOT ring that bell to give up. I kept going. We all did. But what a week it has been. have you ever just felt as if you were under attack? That's the kind of week it was. We were hit on all sides, from aggravating little meaningless messes all the way to an enormous financial mistake.....made by our credit union........hours before the long weekend!!!!
But I must say, that looking back, I am really proud of how we managed. We didn't lose it. We stayed calm.....(o.k., maybe we spoke under our breath a lot..) but we APPEARED calm....and that's important, right? And there were bright spots, so we tried to hang onto those. We did it all together. Leaving the kids at home, while we hashed out it out with whomever we needed to, would probably have been easier. But we wanted to be together, so if you had a problem with us this week, you didn't have to just deal with Race. Or just me. You had to deal with all of us. And it is clear now, looking back, where God was holding our hand, showing us where to step, and sheidling us from the worst of the blow. He is so faithful, and He has blessed me beyond what I could have imagined. And for THAT I am so thankful.
(raising my glass) And here's to next week! (clink!)
G'night!
Melissa
But I must say, that looking back, I am really proud of how we managed. We didn't lose it. We stayed calm.....(o.k., maybe we spoke under our breath a lot..) but we APPEARED calm....and that's important, right? And there were bright spots, so we tried to hang onto those. We did it all together. Leaving the kids at home, while we hashed out it out with whomever we needed to, would probably have been easier. But we wanted to be together, so if you had a problem with us this week, you didn't have to just deal with Race. Or just me. You had to deal with all of us. And it is clear now, looking back, where God was holding our hand, showing us where to step, and sheidling us from the worst of the blow. He is so faithful, and He has blessed me beyond what I could have imagined. And for THAT I am so thankful.
(raising my glass) And here's to next week! (clink!)
G'night!
Melissa
Friday, January 13, 2006
What. A. Week.
I won't bore you to tears anymore with our sickness updates. Suffice it to say, that we keep thinking it's over...........and it's not. We have aired out the entire house twice, and dissenfected every hard surface. We aren't down in the bed with it anymore....but it ain't gone!
This week has been full of challenges of the nasty, irritating sort. From dead car battery, to slamming my finger in the sliding glass door, and a whole bunch of stuff in between. It's just been one of those weeks.
Yesterday was our ultra busy day with school lessons lasting till 2 and then out of the house by 3:45 for Martial Arts, Ballet, and Jiu Jitsu. Race got to watch everyone, so that's always good. But Race is also the Knower Of All People. So anywhere we go,( and I do mean ANYWHERE), he will almost immediately be standing with several people talking to him. It's funny, because Race is not a talker. But everybody loves him. It IS funny to watch.
Savannah's Acrylics class starts next week and it is on Thursday as well, so....heaven help me.
I have more to write, but we are going to be so slammed for the next few days, trying to get everything done before Race takes off. So, I'll have to try to squeeze in a few moments here and there.
Thanks so much for all the prayers. They are so appreciated.
Have a great day!
Melissa
This week has been full of challenges of the nasty, irritating sort. From dead car battery, to slamming my finger in the sliding glass door, and a whole bunch of stuff in between. It's just been one of those weeks.
Yesterday was our ultra busy day with school lessons lasting till 2 and then out of the house by 3:45 for Martial Arts, Ballet, and Jiu Jitsu. Race got to watch everyone, so that's always good. But Race is also the Knower Of All People. So anywhere we go,( and I do mean ANYWHERE), he will almost immediately be standing with several people talking to him. It's funny, because Race is not a talker. But everybody loves him. It IS funny to watch.
Savannah's Acrylics class starts next week and it is on Thursday as well, so....heaven help me.
I have more to write, but we are going to be so slammed for the next few days, trying to get everything done before Race takes off. So, I'll have to try to squeeze in a few moments here and there.
Thanks so much for all the prayers. They are so appreciated.
Have a great day!
Melissa
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Well......have you already heard the NEWS? We are all so excited to have another little one in the family!!! My kids are so thrilled, you'd think that THEY were the ones getting the new baby brother or sister!! Congrats Em, The Dude, Q and W!!
Savannah and Race had the BEST time last night on their date last night. It seems that our little girl is growing up. Now, I must confess, that these father-daughter dates have sometimes had Race come shaking his head a little. When she was younger, he came home on one occasion and whisper to me, "I ran out of stuff to talk to her about!!" So he just hugged her and watched her happily eat her dessert. THIS date however, was different. They talked, chatted, found a lot of common ground. SHe told her dad all about the things that she wants to do, and be. ALl about the book that she is writing. They truly had a wonderful evening.
I did roast a marshmallow last night, and it was heavenly. I was still keeping the fire going when Race and Savannah came home. The kids were all getting ready for bed, so Race and I yelled up to them that we were going for a quick walk..(our new favorite thing to do). We donned our headlamps and went for a walk in the woods. We sat and talked for a few minutes, when we realized that we were not alone. A buck had wondered up just a few yards from us. It took off stomping and running loudly through the woods, but you could tell that it still wasn't exactly sure what we were! It stopped and stomped and blew at us. Race blew back at it. This went on for a bit, and then we could hear it trying to circle around and check us out from the other side. What fun! We had to get back to the house, so when we got up to move, he took off again. But it was awesome. I love that stuff.
Now, as for the rest of the night....................you don't want to know. Remember when I thought that Race and I had managed to escape with the abbreviated version of that nasty virus?? Turns out...NO. To make a long story short, my last few trips from the bathroom were on my hands and knees! Race asked me this morning if there was anything that I needed, and I responded, "A bullet." Cheery,huh? So Race got Mom AND Dad duty today, and I have been flat on my back. He is out running the kids to all of their activities, + trying to pull together everythin he has to do to prepare to leave. This is the first time that I have sat vertically all day. I am keeping fluids down now, so should be on the mend. But, if you would, PLEASE pray for Race that he manages to escape this. This thing is wicked and it would not be good to deal with this over several flights. Ugh.
Thanks so much for all of the comments! And Grandmama, I didn't mean to make you cry. We're O.K., and He's O.K. and we beleive that we are doing exactly what God would have us to do..........but occasionally I turn my eyes from Him, and let the situation get the better of me. We're all just fine. We have had an amazing time together, and we all feel refreshed( except for this stomach thing!). God is so faithful to us.
Now, I am off to read Lynette's blog! I finally hounded her enough to get her to make a go at it! Lynette comments here all the time. Be sure and pay her a visit!
G'night,
Melissa
Savannah and Race had the BEST time last night on their date last night. It seems that our little girl is growing up. Now, I must confess, that these father-daughter dates have sometimes had Race come shaking his head a little. When she was younger, he came home on one occasion and whisper to me, "I ran out of stuff to talk to her about!!" So he just hugged her and watched her happily eat her dessert. THIS date however, was different. They talked, chatted, found a lot of common ground. SHe told her dad all about the things that she wants to do, and be. ALl about the book that she is writing. They truly had a wonderful evening.
I did roast a marshmallow last night, and it was heavenly. I was still keeping the fire going when Race and Savannah came home. The kids were all getting ready for bed, so Race and I yelled up to them that we were going for a quick walk..(our new favorite thing to do). We donned our headlamps and went for a walk in the woods. We sat and talked for a few minutes, when we realized that we were not alone. A buck had wondered up just a few yards from us. It took off stomping and running loudly through the woods, but you could tell that it still wasn't exactly sure what we were! It stopped and stomped and blew at us. Race blew back at it. This went on for a bit, and then we could hear it trying to circle around and check us out from the other side. What fun! We had to get back to the house, so when we got up to move, he took off again. But it was awesome. I love that stuff.
Now, as for the rest of the night....................you don't want to know. Remember when I thought that Race and I had managed to escape with the abbreviated version of that nasty virus?? Turns out...NO. To make a long story short, my last few trips from the bathroom were on my hands and knees! Race asked me this morning if there was anything that I needed, and I responded, "A bullet." Cheery,huh? So Race got Mom AND Dad duty today, and I have been flat on my back. He is out running the kids to all of their activities, + trying to pull together everythin he has to do to prepare to leave. This is the first time that I have sat vertically all day. I am keeping fluids down now, so should be on the mend. But, if you would, PLEASE pray for Race that he manages to escape this. This thing is wicked and it would not be good to deal with this over several flights. Ugh.
Thanks so much for all of the comments! And Grandmama, I didn't mean to make you cry. We're O.K., and He's O.K. and we beleive that we are doing exactly what God would have us to do..........but occasionally I turn my eyes from Him, and let the situation get the better of me. We're all just fine. We have had an amazing time together, and we all feel refreshed( except for this stomach thing!). God is so faithful to us.
Now, I am off to read Lynette's blog! I finally hounded her enough to get her to make a go at it! Lynette comments here all the time. Be sure and pay her a visit!
G'night,
Melissa
Monday, January 09, 2006
It is quiet around here tonight. The boys are settled around a campfire outback with headlamps in place. They have each had a big bowl of homemde vegetable beef soup, and have started in on the toasted marshmallows. They have become competent (and safe) enough to be able to do the entire operation on their own now. It gets rid of a lot of dead scrub that we have in the woods edge, and it keeps both boys in one place!! Strike a match- and you'll know where your boys are. Literally, they will stay out there for hours.
Savannah is out on a date tonight. A date with her dad. He took her to dance class, and then he was taking her out to eat at one of the restaurants downtown that she loves. Her birthday is in a few weeks, but Race will already be gone. He has been taking her on a birthday date for about 5 years now, and she was really looking forward to it tonight.
It is hard to set aside the idea Race is leaving. I try not to let it cloud the days that we have left. But it has become increasingly harder. I walked into the bedroom today, to see him labeling some of his clothing and shoes. Not with his name, but with his BLOOD TYPE. In big bold letters in likely places on clothing (bottom and sides of boots, inside-back of shirt, etc.) The idea of Race ever needing an emergency blood transfusion "in the field" is a difficult thing to ignore. Also as the date gets closer, he begins wearing his bullet/rocket proof vest around while he is working around outside just doing normal stuff. He does this to become accustomed to the enormous weight again. It is an amazing piece of equiptment. I can't tell you how thankful I am for the technological advances in this area, as well as the fact that he has the absolute best gear available. But, still, hard to watch. Hard. to. watch.
It was a gorgeous day today, and I got outside and cut back my perrinials, to get them ready for spring. I wish I had more bulbs to plant, but DRAT! I didn't get enough! I am thinking about vegetable garden seeds though, and maybe I'll start some things indoors for transplanting in spring.
We got some exciting news for our family last night, and I can't wait to be able to tell you about it! Have to keep mum for now though. Maybe tomorrow?
I am going to scoot out onto the deck and watch the boys. Maybe there are a few marshmallows left???
HAve a great night!
Melissa
Savannah is out on a date tonight. A date with her dad. He took her to dance class, and then he was taking her out to eat at one of the restaurants downtown that she loves. Her birthday is in a few weeks, but Race will already be gone. He has been taking her on a birthday date for about 5 years now, and she was really looking forward to it tonight.
It is hard to set aside the idea Race is leaving. I try not to let it cloud the days that we have left. But it has become increasingly harder. I walked into the bedroom today, to see him labeling some of his clothing and shoes. Not with his name, but with his BLOOD TYPE. In big bold letters in likely places on clothing (bottom and sides of boots, inside-back of shirt, etc.) The idea of Race ever needing an emergency blood transfusion "in the field" is a difficult thing to ignore. Also as the date gets closer, he begins wearing his bullet/rocket proof vest around while he is working around outside just doing normal stuff. He does this to become accustomed to the enormous weight again. It is an amazing piece of equiptment. I can't tell you how thankful I am for the technological advances in this area, as well as the fact that he has the absolute best gear available. But, still, hard to watch. Hard. to. watch.
It was a gorgeous day today, and I got outside and cut back my perrinials, to get them ready for spring. I wish I had more bulbs to plant, but DRAT! I didn't get enough! I am thinking about vegetable garden seeds though, and maybe I'll start some things indoors for transplanting in spring.
We got some exciting news for our family last night, and I can't wait to be able to tell you about it! Have to keep mum for now though. Maybe tomorrow?
I am going to scoot out onto the deck and watch the boys. Maybe there are a few marshmallows left???
HAve a great night!
Melissa
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