Something has been really upsetting me lately, and I'm not ready to write about it yet. I don't want to end up making a big deal out of nothing--which I'm famous for--but I will say that I've been worried, anxious and anything but resigned, and that prayers of comfort on my little family's behalf would be greatly appreciated.
That being cryptically said, I've unfortunately been in a 3-week bout of the not-feeling-that-wells, and this doesn't even have anything to do with Baby G. I think my allergies and a lacksadaisical cold got to together and conspired to make my life miserable for awhile. Not sick enough to stay in bed all day--just sick enough to be uncomfortable and lack will power.
Stevie, having the impenetrable immune system that he does, escaped any sickness. David got a teensy taste of it and Steven also got off scott-free, so that's good.
It's been raining, raining, raining. I usually love the rain. There's nothing better than snuggling up with Steven and laughing our rears off watching re-runs of "The Office" (which we did last night while eating sherbert....delicious).
But during the day, it's started to get a bit wearisome. The boys and I need our daily doses of Vitamin D in order to prevent the Cabin-fever Crazies. Amazingly enough, however, they've been getting along pretty well--no hysterical fights over who gets to sit in the blue chair, who gets to dress up like Spiderman first, etc. They've been in fairly chillaxed moods for the past few days, and while that's nice for the sake of family peace, it also means the TV's been on way too much.
(By the way, if anyone would like me to quote "Monsters vs. Aliens" verbatim from start to finished, I'm pretty sure I can do it).
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
General Conference
Today was truly marvelous. It was my turn to sleep in, but I just can’t sleep past 8am anymore. Due to the rainy, lazy weather, the kids ended up sleeping until 9:30. So I had some time to myself to just read and think.
General Conference was wonderful today. Two talks really stuck in my mind. Firstly, President Monson’s talk during morning session. He told the story of Jack MacDonnell, a doctor he knew who was particularly devoted to service. He talked about how every day, Brother MacDonnell would come home and ask his children, “And what did you do for someone today?” He talked about how the children, anticipating their father’s question every day, would strive to have something worthy to report. Over time, the desire for a favorable report turned into a true love of service. I thought that was a really inspiring and wonderful way to introduce and teach your children about serving others.
The second talk that really moved me was by (of course) Elder Jeffrey R. Holland. The MoTab sang a rendition of “O, Divine Redeemer” right before his talk, and while I’m usually not a fan of that song, it absolutely BLEW ME AWAY. Mack Wilberg continues to amaze me with not only his fabulous choral arrangements, but the tenderness and musicality he so aptly expressed through his conducting. The entire experience was inspiring.
Elder Holland is always a powerful speaker, but today he was absolutely electric. His talk was a dynamic and unapologetic testimony of the Book of Mormon as the word of God. He spoke of how his grandfather had put it so simply, “No bad man could write it, and no good man would if it wasn’t true,” and of how ludicrous it would be to think of Joseph and Hyrum, considering all they sacrificed, as scoundrels. He spoke so strongly about how the Book of Mormon is undoubtedly the Word of Christ.
I was so comforted and strengthened by his testimony. I felt like I was being spoken to personally. There are many times when I discount the sacrifices made by the early members of the church. It made me want to weep when I thought of what was necessary to bring the restoration to pass, or to think that I could waver over any basic truths of the gospel. His talk really helped me put things into perspective, and gave me a clear and strong peace that this IS Christ's church and His work, and that I MUST work to improve my own testimony, notwithstanding my snail’s pace, for the rest of my life. It’s talks like these that help me know that Heavenly Father will answer my questions and prayers, and that He needs me to keep trying, and to do my part. It felt personal--like a scolding and a hug all at once.
General Conference was wonderful today. Two talks really stuck in my mind. Firstly, President Monson’s talk during morning session. He told the story of Jack MacDonnell, a doctor he knew who was particularly devoted to service. He talked about how every day, Brother MacDonnell would come home and ask his children, “And what did you do for someone today?” He talked about how the children, anticipating their father’s question every day, would strive to have something worthy to report. Over time, the desire for a favorable report turned into a true love of service. I thought that was a really inspiring and wonderful way to introduce and teach your children about serving others.
The second talk that really moved me was by (of course) Elder Jeffrey R. Holland. The MoTab sang a rendition of “O, Divine Redeemer” right before his talk, and while I’m usually not a fan of that song, it absolutely BLEW ME AWAY. Mack Wilberg continues to amaze me with not only his fabulous choral arrangements, but the tenderness and musicality he so aptly expressed through his conducting. The entire experience was inspiring.
Elder Holland is always a powerful speaker, but today he was absolutely electric. His talk was a dynamic and unapologetic testimony of the Book of Mormon as the word of God. He spoke of how his grandfather had put it so simply, “No bad man could write it, and no good man would if it wasn’t true,” and of how ludicrous it would be to think of Joseph and Hyrum, considering all they sacrificed, as scoundrels. He spoke so strongly about how the Book of Mormon is undoubtedly the Word of Christ.
I was so comforted and strengthened by his testimony. I felt like I was being spoken to personally. There are many times when I discount the sacrifices made by the early members of the church. It made me want to weep when I thought of what was necessary to bring the restoration to pass, or to think that I could waver over any basic truths of the gospel. His talk really helped me put things into perspective, and gave me a clear and strong peace that this IS Christ's church and His work, and that I MUST work to improve my own testimony, notwithstanding my snail’s pace, for the rest of my life. It’s talks like these that help me know that Heavenly Father will answer my questions and prayers, and that He needs me to keep trying, and to do my part. It felt personal--like a scolding and a hug all at once.
Some Tidbits About Our Weekend
Steven had an Elder’s Quorum Wii party on Friday night. It was poorly attended, but apparently very fun—seeing as how he didn’t get home until a little before midnight. Of course, that probably has a lot to do with my husband’s delightful ability to talk until the end of time (it’s actually one of my favorite things about him). It was okay, though, because I was able to watch the General Relief Society conference that I had recorded on the DVR, and I had a lovely time being uplifted and teary-eyed without any background noise.
Saturday morning was full of watching Conference and cooking. I cooked up a batch of baked potato soup (my favorite) to take to our Relief Society get together that night. I was also in an unexplainably amiable mood, and complied with my children’s constant requests for something different for breakfast (1st cereal, then biscuits and jelly, then eggs). I usually tell them to like it or lump it, but I was just feeling kind of jolly, what with conference on TV and being in a generally productive mood.
That afternoon at 4pm was Stevie’s first T-ball game, and I’m officially in love with the whole process. I’m not sure there’s anything more adorable than watching a hoard of 5 year olds alternate between wildly pitching themselves at the ball and then staring off into space or picking flowers. But when STEVIE HIT THE BALL—well, I can just tell you I was practically in a frenzy of pride. We’re still not really sure who won the actual game (the score was something ridiculous, like 21 to 18), but it didn’t really matter. It was all very low-key, and all about feeling good and having fun.
Afterwards, I rushed off with the boys to the Relief Society party and Steven rushed off to get ready for Priesthood session. I had a lovely time and even made some crafty homemade cards—and may I say, they are CUTE! Granted, Kallie did most of the work and I just glued everything together, but I’m still feeling very self-satisfied.
Steven, (though getting there very late) had a great time at Priesthood session too. He unfortunately missed the pre-session pizza get-together due to a massive headache, but took some medicine and was able to make it to the stake center during the first hymn. He said that he really enjoyed it, and never even looked at the clock the entire time. So I guess both of us had a lovely evening with our respective sexes.
Saturday morning was full of watching Conference and cooking. I cooked up a batch of baked potato soup (my favorite) to take to our Relief Society get together that night. I was also in an unexplainably amiable mood, and complied with my children’s constant requests for something different for breakfast (1st cereal, then biscuits and jelly, then eggs). I usually tell them to like it or lump it, but I was just feeling kind of jolly, what with conference on TV and being in a generally productive mood.
That afternoon at 4pm was Stevie’s first T-ball game, and I’m officially in love with the whole process. I’m not sure there’s anything more adorable than watching a hoard of 5 year olds alternate between wildly pitching themselves at the ball and then staring off into space or picking flowers. But when STEVIE HIT THE BALL—well, I can just tell you I was practically in a frenzy of pride. We’re still not really sure who won the actual game (the score was something ridiculous, like 21 to 18), but it didn’t really matter. It was all very low-key, and all about feeling good and having fun.
Afterwards, I rushed off with the boys to the Relief Society party and Steven rushed off to get ready for Priesthood session. I had a lovely time and even made some crafty homemade cards—and may I say, they are CUTE! Granted, Kallie did most of the work and I just glued everything together, but I’m still feeling very self-satisfied.
Steven, (though getting there very late) had a great time at Priesthood session too. He unfortunately missed the pre-session pizza get-together due to a massive headache, but took some medicine and was able to make it to the stake center during the first hymn. He said that he really enjoyed it, and never even looked at the clock the entire time. So I guess both of us had a lovely evening with our respective sexes.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Twelve Things I Should Be Doing Right Now
1. The dishes (oh dreaded, dreaded chore)
2. Laundry
3. Returning library books and finding something new to read
4. Getting my car inspected and….(nervous chuckle) registered.
5. Cleaning out the cesspool that is my car.
6. Figuring out what to make for dinner
7. Finding the elusive t-ball lady to turn in Stevie's forms.
8. Writing thank you notes
9. Practicing the piano
10. Finishing up a choral piece I've been arranging
11. Setting up the rest of my visiting teaching appointments
12. Sorting the recycling.
Hmmm. That's a bit overwhelming. Better get started.
2. Laundry
3. Returning library books and finding something new to read
4. Getting my car inspected and….(nervous chuckle) registered.
5. Cleaning out the cesspool that is my car.
6. Figuring out what to make for dinner
7. Finding the elusive t-ball lady to turn in Stevie's forms.
8. Writing thank you notes
9. Practicing the piano
10. Finishing up a choral piece I've been arranging
11. Setting up the rest of my visiting teaching appointments
12. Sorting the recycling.
Hmmm. That's a bit overwhelming. Better get started.
Friday, September 25, 2009
T-BALL
Here's "The Team" 
We finally signed Stevie up for T-ball! And he loves it. Mmmm, no, that's not the word--he's fanatically happy about it, and every day he asks me if it's the day of the "Big Game." (I think he got that phrase from watching 'Chicken Little').
Here's Stevie looking suprised he hit the ball.
As many or all of you know, Steven and I are not terribly sports-inclinated folks. Sure, we both appreciate sports--we're just not athletes per se. But we realized that at least for now, our boys both really want to be--and being able to find joy in being active is something we want both of them to have.
Of course I waited until the last minute, and consequently waited too late to sign Stevie up for anything. But luckily, my friend Marby told me there was a space open on her son's team, and they needed an extra player. Hallelujah! Now he can play T-ball AND be with one of his friends.
The coach is really awesome. He spends a lot of one-on-one time with Stevie, and I feel like Stevie's really learned a lot. And the absolute best part of all of this is how well Stevie is taking constructive criticism from his coach. The coach words everything just right-- doesn't baby talk them, but says everything in a way to show he cares. But he'll make Stevie repeat an activity until he does it right--and Stevie doesn't cry. His face doesn't even crinkle up--he just takes it like a man. I'm so proud of him.
Here's Stevie pow-wowing with Coach Joe.
And here's Stevie getting distracted during a pow-wow with Coach Joe. :)
During the first practice, they were running the bases and trying to catch the person in front of them. Well, after rounding 1st base, Stevie BIFFED it, and I mean hard. And he didn't cry! He just jumped up and kept running, and the kid behind him STILL couldn't catch him. That's my baby!
Everyone was saying that Stevie was fast! I guess all those times imitating "Dash" from "The Incredibles" was good practice!
David just can't wait for his turn next year. During practice, Steven will take David aside and practice catching and throwing with him--oh, and "baseball ready." (That's where they wait for the ball with their legs spread and their hands on their knees). It's adorable.
It's been a great experience so far. And I'm with Stevie--I can't wait for the first "Big Game."
We finally signed Stevie up for T-ball! And he loves it. Mmmm, no, that's not the word--he's fanatically happy about it, and every day he asks me if it's the day of the "Big Game." (I think he got that phrase from watching 'Chicken Little').
Here's Stevie looking suprised he hit the ball.
As many or all of you know, Steven and I are not terribly sports-inclinated folks. Sure, we both appreciate sports--we're just not athletes per se. But we realized that at least for now, our boys both really want to be--and being able to find joy in being active is something we want both of them to have.
Of course I waited until the last minute, and consequently waited too late to sign Stevie up for anything. But luckily, my friend Marby told me there was a space open on her son's team, and they needed an extra player. Hallelujah! Now he can play T-ball AND be with one of his friends.
The coach is really awesome. He spends a lot of one-on-one time with Stevie, and I feel like Stevie's really learned a lot. And the absolute best part of all of this is how well Stevie is taking constructive criticism from his coach. The coach words everything just right-- doesn't baby talk them, but says everything in a way to show he cares. But he'll make Stevie repeat an activity until he does it right--and Stevie doesn't cry. His face doesn't even crinkle up--he just takes it like a man. I'm so proud of him.
Here's Stevie pow-wowing with Coach Joe.
And here's Stevie getting distracted during a pow-wow with Coach Joe. :)
During the first practice, they were running the bases and trying to catch the person in front of them. Well, after rounding 1st base, Stevie BIFFED it, and I mean hard. And he didn't cry! He just jumped up and kept running, and the kid behind him STILL couldn't catch him. That's my baby!
Everyone was saying that Stevie was fast! I guess all those times imitating "Dash" from "The Incredibles" was good practice!
David just can't wait for his turn next year. During practice, Steven will take David aside and practice catching and throwing with him--oh, and "baseball ready." (That's where they wait for the ball with their legs spread and their hands on their knees). It's adorable.
It's been a great experience so far. And I'm with Stevie--I can't wait for the first "Big Game."
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
My School Boys
Well, not only have we joined a preschool co-op for Stevie, we also joined one for David! It's every Monday and Wednesday from 9:30am-11:30, and there's 5 kids in the class. This time schedule fits just perfectly with Stevie's 9-12:30 class. I actually have 2 hours of time to myself twice a week. It's bewildering! But not so much so that I'm not enjoying it immensely. I took a shower today BY MYSELF without any interruptions. It was almost spooky.
We really lucked out with David because this wonderful girl moved into the ward who's really on top of preschool (being educated in early education herself) and got things rolling. She also has a 3 year old son, who David just happens to get along with marvelously. They talk about numbers and colors and letters, along with various themes that change weekly. So far I'm pleased as punch.
So with Stevie progressing fabulously in his 4-5 year old preschool and David reaping the blessings of his 3 year old preschool, we are feeling pretty lucky! Just think, once the baby is born, I'll have TWO HOURS every week for just baby and me. Pretty luxurious.
Now I just have to get the whole carpooling thing worked out. Then the Nirvana will be complete.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
SPIDERMAN/ROCK-N-ROLL PARTY!
This year, we decided to combine Stevie and David's birthday party--since all of David's friends are Stevie's and vice versa. It was exhausting, but turned out pretty fun. (I don't know about you, but I hate throwing parties. I love GOING to them, but when I'm in charge...that's a whole different ball of twine).
AT ANY RATE, David wanted a Spiderman party and Stevie wanted a Rocker party, so we just smooshed it together and had a Spiderman/Rock Star party. Steven and I prepared with our usual wait-till-the-last-possible-minute technique to get everything set up at literally the eleventh hour.
We invited everyone to dress up as a rock star or superhero. Here's a few
We also played a little Spiderman game in the backyard. We gave the kids silly-string and let them hit the "bad guys" with their "Spidey Webs."
Not all the kids were crazy about the Spidey Web game--silly string was too sticky? :)
We had some pretty awesome costumes. Look at the mohawk on Colin! And I couldn't get over our glamorous diva Meda!
Steven went as Ozzie. Here he is, thrashing on a mini-guitar.
Jed seems to be rockin' a south-central LA "vato" look. But hey, whatever.
And isn't Marby's new look fierce? (And while he's not wearing it in his picture, Theron was the cutest Elvis I've ever seen).
We put out our guitar hero stuff and created a little "stage" at the front of the room that the kids could play rock star with. At first, everyone was a bit hesitant, but they warmed up in time!
Here's some ladies rockin' the stage. Ozzie's filling in on guitar.
Here's W. singing his repetoire. He was so cute!!
Afterwards, we sang to Stevie and David, and then let the kiddos decorate cupcakes (I made them do all the work). It was a madhouse, but they did a great job!
Here's the rocker family. I'm a knocked-up Pat Benatar and Stevie's a mini-Billy Idol. David initially wanted to be Spiderman--then Venom. Then he decided he just wanted a tatoo and regular clothes. He kept telling me his Venom costume was "too hot." Oh well.
All-in-all, it was fun. Glad it's over, but even more glad the kiddos had a good time. Happy Birthday, my sweeties.
AT ANY RATE, David wanted a Spiderman party and Stevie wanted a Rocker party, so we just smooshed it together and had a Spiderman/Rock Star party. Steven and I prepared with our usual wait-till-the-last-possible-minute technique to get everything set up at literally the eleventh hour.
We also played a little Spiderman game in the backyard. We gave the kids silly-string and let them hit the "bad guys" with their "Spidey Webs."
We put out our guitar hero stuff and created a little "stage" at the front of the room that the kids could play rock star with. At first, everyone was a bit hesitant, but they warmed up in time!
All-in-all, it was fun. Glad it's over, but even more glad the kiddos had a good time. Happy Birthday, my sweeties.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
2 Cute Pics
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Preschool
So this year, some ladies in the ward got together and decided to try a preschool co-op. We have about 6 little kids, all of who will be entering kindergarten next year. We have “school” on Mondays and Wednesday for about 3 ½ hours each (I know it seems long, but the last ½ hour is for the kiddos to each their lunches like “big” kids. Seeing as how kindergarten is a full day here in League City, we thought they might as well get used to it. Plus, they love their lunch boxes).
Each mom teaches for one week (2 days). This is nice because we only have to teach once every six weeks, and our kiddos have the benefit of school and peers every week. Plus, it gives us (the moms) a little free time and allows the kids to get used to being without mom.
It’s gone really well so far. Stevie, for one, absolutely loves to go to preschool. He’s one of the older kids in class, so at times he’s a little restless from eagerness to get to the next task, but all-in-all, he loves it. And I am continually blown away with how crazy smart this kid is. He just breezes through every activity. And I think the social education of regularly being with his peers will be incredibly good for him. He has such a sensitive little heart, and he doesn’t always pick up on social clues. This will give him lots of practice, and hopefully help him not to take things so personally. Man, I love my sweet little Jingles.
I taught my first official “week” of preschool, and boy-howdy was it a doozy. I of course waited until the last possible second to construct any type of lesson plan, and then proceeded to stay up until the wee hours of the night getting all the materials together. But overall, it went surprisingly well. I found a great book, “The Giant Book of Kindergarten Activities,” to help me out. I also found some things on the internet that were helpful.
Monday went better than today, though. And I’ve realized it’s all because I was in a better mood on Monday. Today I’ve got a bad case of the hormone-related blahs, and it really showed in my teaching. The kids, fortunately, were as chipper as ever, and didn’t seem to notice my many flub-ups.
I’m really excited about this. It’s hard work but it’s going to be worth it. And plus, I don’t have to think up anything else until October. Phew!
A few samples of Stevie's work:
Tracing the Letter "E"
"The Rainbow Fish" Art Collage
Feelings Face Mask--Stevie chose "angry" for some reason
Each mom teaches for one week (2 days). This is nice because we only have to teach once every six weeks, and our kiddos have the benefit of school and peers every week. Plus, it gives us (the moms) a little free time and allows the kids to get used to being without mom.
It’s gone really well so far. Stevie, for one, absolutely loves to go to preschool. He’s one of the older kids in class, so at times he’s a little restless from eagerness to get to the next task, but all-in-all, he loves it. And I am continually blown away with how crazy smart this kid is. He just breezes through every activity. And I think the social education of regularly being with his peers will be incredibly good for him. He has such a sensitive little heart, and he doesn’t always pick up on social clues. This will give him lots of practice, and hopefully help him not to take things so personally. Man, I love my sweet little Jingles.
I taught my first official “week” of preschool, and boy-howdy was it a doozy. I of course waited until the last possible second to construct any type of lesson plan, and then proceeded to stay up until the wee hours of the night getting all the materials together. But overall, it went surprisingly well. I found a great book, “The Giant Book of Kindergarten Activities,” to help me out. I also found some things on the internet that were helpful.
Monday went better than today, though. And I’ve realized it’s all because I was in a better mood on Monday. Today I’ve got a bad case of the hormone-related blahs, and it really showed in my teaching. The kids, fortunately, were as chipper as ever, and didn’t seem to notice my many flub-ups.
I’m really excited about this. It’s hard work but it’s going to be worth it. And plus, I don’t have to think up anything else until October. Phew!
A few samples of Stevie's work:
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Gradual Return to Normalcy
I finally feel like I’m getting over that hump—you know, the lethargy/queasiness hump that accompanies the first few months of pregnancy—and now I’m ready to rejoin the world. I had my 2nd doctor’s appointment today, which again cemented my respect and genuine liking of Dr. Griffis. She and I talked about my attack, and she eased my mind about the medication I took while in the hospital. And I got to hear the little heartbeat, which always calms and elates me simultaneously.
But as I was saying, I’m ready to get busy again. Time to evict the cockroaches (which granted, would be easier if our house didn’t have giant cracks in the doors) and scour the place. Did you know I actually ENJOY mopping? That’s something I usually like to keep under wraps—but there’s something soothing about swishing that water all over the floor. Weird, I know. If only I could just mop and never do dishes. Or if I could somehow mop the dishes. Anyway, I digress.
Stevie and David haven't had much fun this month, but they've been such troopers. The thing that always humbles me about my sweet kiddos is how they seem to WANT to spend time with me—even lately when I haven’t been the most interesting person in the world. They just like to be in the same room together. And because of their being such good sports over this past month of boredom, I really feel like we need to get out together and DO some things. Beach, zoo, Space Center—I dunno, whatever I can find that doesn’t cost money. And I’m certainly glad it’s getting a bit cooler so that we can go outside without baking to death.
So wish me luck as I once again attempt to rejoin society and become a contributing member of my family. Heck, I might even make dinner tonight....(might).
But as I was saying, I’m ready to get busy again. Time to evict the cockroaches (which granted, would be easier if our house didn’t have giant cracks in the doors) and scour the place. Did you know I actually ENJOY mopping? That’s something I usually like to keep under wraps—but there’s something soothing about swishing that water all over the floor. Weird, I know. If only I could just mop and never do dishes. Or if I could somehow mop the dishes. Anyway, I digress.
Stevie and David haven't had much fun this month, but they've been such troopers. The thing that always humbles me about my sweet kiddos is how they seem to WANT to spend time with me—even lately when I haven’t been the most interesting person in the world. They just like to be in the same room together. And because of their being such good sports over this past month of boredom, I really feel like we need to get out together and DO some things. Beach, zoo, Space Center—I dunno, whatever I can find that doesn’t cost money. And I’m certainly glad it’s getting a bit cooler so that we can go outside without baking to death.
So wish me luck as I once again attempt to rejoin society and become a contributing member of my family. Heck, I might even make dinner tonight....(might).
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