I am always looking for ways to better our lives. I am also always wondering if I make the "right" decisions. I try to do good things... and help others.
Sometimes I get to a point where I just wonder WHY?!?!
I am really seeing things from both sides of the coin lately.
I have been going out of my way to help others lately. I am putting my own needs and sanity aside to do all I can for ppl. I have been really stretched pretty thin. I am not looking for anything in return... and I dont expect anything in return. But it would be nice to know that these ppl at least care about me and my family. A simple "hey, how are ya doing?" goes a long way. Especially when it is OBVIOUS that things have been a bit stressful for us lately.
Now, I am married to a man who doesnt really like to go and ask how other's are doing. His thinking is... if someone needs something, they know they can call him. Really... do they??? Maybe ppl just feel like I do with the ppl I am dealing with... like he doesnt care. Hmmmmm....
It is interesting to get to chit chat about these things with Stacy. He never really thought about it, until I expressed my feelings of not getting at least a "hey, how are ya... been thinking about you"
While we were out yesterday (we went to take pics of things in storage that need to just be sold now)... I decided to mention making some "rounds" and checking in on ppl. Of course I got the ... "I am sure they are all fine, or we would have heard something by now." I pushed through that... reminding him about how I feel about certain things (he isnt real sharp when it comes to things like this...lol)... so we made some stops, did some quick visits. I think once he saw the smile on his grandmother's face and her telling him she was glad he stopped and was happy to see him... IT CLICKED!!! ;-)
On the way out we fixed her rain spouting and I made mention of checking in on his mom. Which we did... and he got the same smile!
My point... sometimes it is just the little things that mean so much!
As for me....
I am pretty much done doing the "big" things... for ppl who dont even give me the time of day... well, until they need or want something.
I am sure I can find ppl that will appreciate what I have to offer and at least remember to say "hey" during some tough times.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Monday, October 29, 2012
Our week...last week
Well, last week was busy... eventful... stressful... and some of it was just bullshit!
We went and toured HGA... Stacy and I thought it was FANTASTIC! Of course we had 2 days of negativity and crap from Courtney. But, at this point she is willing to go. We are also trying to get her in to start in the April session. We had originally were hoping for her to start in January... but after I called and spoke to admissions... there is just no way we can get everything in order by the cut off date. So... our new target date is April.
It was a stressful few days dealing with that stuff. Courtney was making EVERYONE miserable!!
Once we got that all sorted out we were hit with a surprise visit from Dog Law AND a Humane Society officer... WITH 3 (THREE) trucks full of crates to take animals out of our house!!!! Oh yes... some MORON called and reported us for living in unsanitary conditions... having chickens, ducks and OTHER LIVESTOCK living in our house WITH us!!!!!!!! For goodness sake.
Both gentlemen were in shock to walk into our clean home and see I have ALL of our vet paperwork and other dog paperwork in order!! They seriously said they were told and were expecting to see a house FULL of animals and grossness, according to what they were told on the phone by the person (IDIOT) that reported us!!
Just another case of someone being way too occupied with our lives and causing us issues! People need better hobbies!! It turned out to be a nice visit with these guys. But really not something I had the time for... we were already a bit behind in school work... and I HATE feeling behind in school work!
Friday night was another training session for Gunner. Stacy went along and worked Gunner... good thing, I was still fuming about the days "surprise"!!
Training went really well. Gunner is getting use to working with Tim and Carol... and he was very accepting to hugs from Tim. It is a really nice feeling now... not being so worried about what Gunner will do, every time I take him out in public. Now to figure out what direction we want to take Gunner's training in. I really want to do "something" with him... that was the whole point of getting him!
Saturday Nathan turned 11!! Holy Cow... time sure is flying by quick!!! My baby is 11 :-(
Stacy and Brittany went hunting with my grandfather in the morning. We picked up our beef later in the morning. The kids had their art lessons in the after noon... THEN, after all of that... Nathan's BDay celebration began!!
We went to Cracker Barrel for dinner... Grammy and Pappy joined us. It was Pappy's BDay too!!
After our yummy meal... we took on a corn maze at night... with flashlights!!! NOT EASY!!!! But way fun!!! I really laughed way too much. OMGoodness!!!! I think it was even frustrating Pappy! But we had soooo much fun.
Once we found our way out of the BIG part of the maze... we tried the little maze. It was definitely easier... but still a challenge. The night ended with some peddle cart racing and playing on the farm/playground equipment!
Yesterday we got serious about the pending storm. We had one gas can that needed filled... and I wanted to have my car tank filled too. The truck got moved away from the woods... no falling tree will get my truck!! Stacy went up and checked out the trees around the garage. There was one we were worried about falling... so he made sure if it does come down... it wont be toward our garage.
We also stopped and picked up a RX we had dropped off last week for Nathan.
We also took in the sights of the frenzy!!! Gas stations were out of gas... no bottled water to be found... ANYWHERE. No flashlights or batteries either. It was just pure craziness!!!
Schools are all canceled today and tomorrow. And here we sit.... waiting. I got some crocheting done. I have a few more little projects I would like to finish up. Then, I have no idea what the hell I will be doing!! LOL!!!
I am a little on edge, since Stacy is at work... and we just arent sure how bad we will really get hit with this storm. But, I know I can handle whatever the weather throws our way.
The dogs are all pacing/patrolling the house. They arent very happy. Nathan is worrying his little heart out. UGH! Waiting is the worst.
Ok... well there is our update.
We went and toured HGA... Stacy and I thought it was FANTASTIC! Of course we had 2 days of negativity and crap from Courtney. But, at this point she is willing to go. We are also trying to get her in to start in the April session. We had originally were hoping for her to start in January... but after I called and spoke to admissions... there is just no way we can get everything in order by the cut off date. So... our new target date is April.
It was a stressful few days dealing with that stuff. Courtney was making EVERYONE miserable!!
Once we got that all sorted out we were hit with a surprise visit from Dog Law AND a Humane Society officer... WITH 3 (THREE) trucks full of crates to take animals out of our house!!!! Oh yes... some MORON called and reported us for living in unsanitary conditions... having chickens, ducks and OTHER LIVESTOCK living in our house WITH us!!!!!!!! For goodness sake.
Both gentlemen were in shock to walk into our clean home and see I have ALL of our vet paperwork and other dog paperwork in order!! They seriously said they were told and were expecting to see a house FULL of animals and grossness, according to what they were told on the phone by the person (IDIOT) that reported us!!
Just another case of someone being way too occupied with our lives and causing us issues! People need better hobbies!! It turned out to be a nice visit with these guys. But really not something I had the time for... we were already a bit behind in school work... and I HATE feeling behind in school work!
Friday night was another training session for Gunner. Stacy went along and worked Gunner... good thing, I was still fuming about the days "surprise"!!
Training went really well. Gunner is getting use to working with Tim and Carol... and he was very accepting to hugs from Tim. It is a really nice feeling now... not being so worried about what Gunner will do, every time I take him out in public. Now to figure out what direction we want to take Gunner's training in. I really want to do "something" with him... that was the whole point of getting him!
Saturday Nathan turned 11!! Holy Cow... time sure is flying by quick!!! My baby is 11 :-(
Stacy and Brittany went hunting with my grandfather in the morning. We picked up our beef later in the morning. The kids had their art lessons in the after noon... THEN, after all of that... Nathan's BDay celebration began!!
We went to Cracker Barrel for dinner... Grammy and Pappy joined us. It was Pappy's BDay too!!
After our yummy meal... we took on a corn maze at night... with flashlights!!! NOT EASY!!!! But way fun!!! I really laughed way too much. OMGoodness!!!! I think it was even frustrating Pappy! But we had soooo much fun.
Once we found our way out of the BIG part of the maze... we tried the little maze. It was definitely easier... but still a challenge. The night ended with some peddle cart racing and playing on the farm/playground equipment!
Yesterday we got serious about the pending storm. We had one gas can that needed filled... and I wanted to have my car tank filled too. The truck got moved away from the woods... no falling tree will get my truck!! Stacy went up and checked out the trees around the garage. There was one we were worried about falling... so he made sure if it does come down... it wont be toward our garage.
We also stopped and picked up a RX we had dropped off last week for Nathan.
We also took in the sights of the frenzy!!! Gas stations were out of gas... no bottled water to be found... ANYWHERE. No flashlights or batteries either. It was just pure craziness!!!
Schools are all canceled today and tomorrow. And here we sit.... waiting. I got some crocheting done. I have a few more little projects I would like to finish up. Then, I have no idea what the hell I will be doing!! LOL!!!
I am a little on edge, since Stacy is at work... and we just arent sure how bad we will really get hit with this storm. But, I know I can handle whatever the weather throws our way.
The dogs are all pacing/patrolling the house. They arent very happy. Nathan is worrying his little heart out. UGH! Waiting is the worst.
Ok... well there is our update.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Another Monday!!
Ahhhh... yes, another Monday! At least it is nice and sunny out. Actually, it is rather beautiful looking outside. I LOVE the fall colors that I see when I look out any of my windows. The mountains are putting on quite a show!! :-)
I know there are some that think I am crazy... for our Sasquatch hunting adventure!! I dont care. I had so much fun with Brittany yesterday! We laughed, we schemed, we just had an all around good time together. I get sad when I think that our times like that are numbered. She is getting older... I am sure she wont want to do things like that much longer... although I can hope that she will.
Josh went out on a camping adventure over the weekend. With his friend Kara!
I am so glad I took time to camp with my kids...and that they will take that into their future!
He took our tent... packed up his little car...and set out into the woods, up state... during HUNTING SEASON... UGH! Oh well, he checked in with me twice a day... so I didnt have to go looking for him...LOL! And he made it home safe yesterday evening. He is sounding a bit rough... I hope he GOES TO THE DOCTOR!!!!!!
Today we have some catching up to do on our school work. Not a real big deal. Nathan has his first therapy appt this morning!! He is looking forward to learning skills to keep him from worrying so much! I am very proud of him for being open to this.
Other than that... just another typical Monday! I hope to get out of a walk today... I got on the scale this morning and was NOT pleased with what I saw!!!! :-(
Ok... gotta get moving on with our day! We have MUCH to learn... and some sun and beautiful scenery to enjoy! :-D
I know there are some that think I am crazy... for our Sasquatch hunting adventure!! I dont care. I had so much fun with Brittany yesterday! We laughed, we schemed, we just had an all around good time together. I get sad when I think that our times like that are numbered. She is getting older... I am sure she wont want to do things like that much longer... although I can hope that she will.
Josh went out on a camping adventure over the weekend. With his friend Kara!
I am so glad I took time to camp with my kids...and that they will take that into their future!
He took our tent... packed up his little car...and set out into the woods, up state... during HUNTING SEASON... UGH! Oh well, he checked in with me twice a day... so I didnt have to go looking for him...LOL! And he made it home safe yesterday evening. He is sounding a bit rough... I hope he GOES TO THE DOCTOR!!!!!!
Today we have some catching up to do on our school work. Not a real big deal. Nathan has his first therapy appt this morning!! He is looking forward to learning skills to keep him from worrying so much! I am very proud of him for being open to this.
Other than that... just another typical Monday! I hope to get out of a walk today... I got on the scale this morning and was NOT pleased with what I saw!!!! :-(
Ok... gotta get moving on with our day! We have MUCH to learn... and some sun and beautiful scenery to enjoy! :-D
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Sasquatch Hunting...
Sooooo.... Brittany and I decided to take Gunner up to the hang glider spot today, to run and play! WELL, with the recent BigFoot sighting... we decided to turn our adventure into a Sasquatch Hunt. Of course, we recorded our time spent in the woods with step by step texts to Stacy!! LMBO
Here is the run down--
October 21st, 2012:
15:31- Squatch activity, pulling out the canine to do some tracking. Will report back later.
15:40- (after Stacy LOL'd us) This is some serious business. We are now licensed squatch hunters. No laughing out loud!
15:45- Hang glider activity. Canine spotted horse shit.
15:50- Canine succeeded in getting a sample (of horse shit)
15:55- More evidence found and photographed (squatch gloves and odd tree markings)
15:57- Note: Squatches eat fruit cups
16:11- preoccuppied by MAJOR hang glider activity. You should come up on your way thru. NOTE: canine doing great.
16:21- It's a party up here. No more squatch activity seen or noted.
16:25- There are 6 hang gliders in the sky right now.
17:00- Continuing to play fetch with Gunner
17:37- While heading home Brittany exited the truck to participate in a secret snatch and grab mission -- Code Name: FERNS! Mission was a success!
LMFAO... Let me tell you... Brittany and I had THE BEST time up in the mountain today!! :-D
Gunner did AMAZING... EVEN when the stupid guy wanted to give me the 3rd degree because I said his kid couldnt pet my dog. I explained that Gunner isnt very fond of ppl. Well, that set this asshole into a tizzy... he couldnt understand why I had a nasty dog in the mountains!! Hey douche bag... my dog was COMPLETELY under control the ENTIRE time... even when you were harassing me!!! WOOOO HOOOOO... GOOOO GUNNER!!!
I almost told him to take 2 more steps closer to me to see my dog NASTY!! But I refrained and used the situation as a learning experience for Gunner.
It did bother me for awhile tho.
OK... Sasquatch Hunter, Amy, signing off for the evening. ;-)
Here is the run down--
October 21st, 2012:
15:31- Squatch activity, pulling out the canine to do some tracking. Will report back later.
15:40- (after Stacy LOL'd us) This is some serious business. We are now licensed squatch hunters. No laughing out loud!
15:45- Hang glider activity. Canine spotted horse shit.
15:50- Canine succeeded in getting a sample (of horse shit)
15:55- More evidence found and photographed (squatch gloves and odd tree markings)
15:57- Note: Squatches eat fruit cups
16:11- preoccuppied by MAJOR hang glider activity. You should come up on your way thru. NOTE: canine doing great.
16:21- It's a party up here. No more squatch activity seen or noted.
16:25- There are 6 hang gliders in the sky right now.
17:00- Continuing to play fetch with Gunner
17:37- While heading home Brittany exited the truck to participate in a secret snatch and grab mission -- Code Name: FERNS! Mission was a success!
LMFAO... Let me tell you... Brittany and I had THE BEST time up in the mountain today!! :-D
Gunner did AMAZING... EVEN when the stupid guy wanted to give me the 3rd degree because I said his kid couldnt pet my dog. I explained that Gunner isnt very fond of ppl. Well, that set this asshole into a tizzy... he couldnt understand why I had a nasty dog in the mountains!! Hey douche bag... my dog was COMPLETELY under control the ENTIRE time... even when you were harassing me!!! WOOOO HOOOOO... GOOOO GUNNER!!!
I almost told him to take 2 more steps closer to me to see my dog NASTY!! But I refrained and used the situation as a learning experience for Gunner.
It did bother me for awhile tho.
OK... Sasquatch Hunter, Amy, signing off for the evening. ;-)
Saturday, October 20, 2012
A great time!
Our Harvest Gathering turned out to be an AWESOME evening!! I laughed way too much... my "laugh muscles" hurt today. Which is a welcomed hurt... since my back has been so bad lately! (For anyone keeping track... my bruising is a really yucky greenish/purplish now!! Ewwwww!! But I am hoping by tomorrow it wont hurt to put my brace on.)
Anyway... it was an enjoyable evening. Watching Aunt Vickie and Aunt Brenda together.... HILARIOUS. Listening to Jason and Stacy tell stories... also VERY funny! Having good company to share it all with... AMAZING!!
I wont even try to get into telling stories from last nite... it will NEVER do it justice!!!
All of the harvest goodies were yummy. I will share some recipes this week!!
I think we will definitely have to have more get togethers... and I am still stuck on a card nite or something every once in awhile!
Today the guys are hard at work on the roof. And it is an easy day for me... my house is fairly clean and laundry is mostly caught up! I will be taking it easy... hoping my back feels better... I really want to get a nice hike in this weekend! I skipped the Gratz Craft Fair today... I didnt want to do all that walking right now.
Oh, yesterday's meeting about Courtney went better than expected. We hope we are on track now and we can continue to move forward with her goals and plans. This Wednesday we go to visit HGA!!! This Tuesday she starts DRIVING LESSONS!!!
RECIPE!!!!---
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, room temp
1 Cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3/4 Cup solid packed, pumpkin puree
1 Cup semisweet choc chips
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place rack inthe middle of oven. Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners
In large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, ground spices and salt.
In the bowl of your electric mixer (or hand mixer), cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. With mixer on low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and the pumpkin puree, in 3 additions, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in choc chips.
Fill the muffin cups evenly with the batter (you can use an ice cream scoop for this!) Place in the oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes... or until firm to the touch and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on wire rack.
NOTE--
You can also bake this batter in a loaf pan!!! Butter the pan first. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 - 60 minutes.
Anyway... it was an enjoyable evening. Watching Aunt Vickie and Aunt Brenda together.... HILARIOUS. Listening to Jason and Stacy tell stories... also VERY funny! Having good company to share it all with... AMAZING!!
I wont even try to get into telling stories from last nite... it will NEVER do it justice!!!
All of the harvest goodies were yummy. I will share some recipes this week!!
I think we will definitely have to have more get togethers... and I am still stuck on a card nite or something every once in awhile!
Today the guys are hard at work on the roof. And it is an easy day for me... my house is fairly clean and laundry is mostly caught up! I will be taking it easy... hoping my back feels better... I really want to get a nice hike in this weekend! I skipped the Gratz Craft Fair today... I didnt want to do all that walking right now.
Oh, yesterday's meeting about Courtney went better than expected. We hope we are on track now and we can continue to move forward with her goals and plans. This Wednesday we go to visit HGA!!! This Tuesday she starts DRIVING LESSONS!!!
RECIPE!!!!---
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins:
1 1/2 Cups of all purpose flour1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, room temp
1 Cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3/4 Cup solid packed, pumpkin puree
1 Cup semisweet choc chips
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place rack inthe middle of oven. Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners
In large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, ground spices and salt.
In the bowl of your electric mixer (or hand mixer), cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. With mixer on low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and the pumpkin puree, in 3 additions, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in choc chips.
Fill the muffin cups evenly with the batter (you can use an ice cream scoop for this!) Place in the oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes... or until firm to the touch and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on wire rack.
NOTE--
You can also bake this batter in a loaf pan!!! Butter the pan first. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 - 60 minutes.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Weekend to almost mid week!
Wow... it seems that time is just flying by! Here we are... Tuesday already!!!
The weekend was pretty good... even with the insane amount of pain I was feeling. I some how managed to screw up my back... probably working with Gunner.
Friday our roof was FINALLY delivered and we got all of the supplies we needed. AND, Stacy realized that Nathan was very much correct in saying the wheels on the big trailer werent sitting right.
Saturday Stacy and his dad got to work on the roof. Just the 2 of them. We now how scaffolding decorating the front of our house... and they did start to get the wood screwed down. I think they got 2 pieces of metal on the front part of the main roof too.
I spent most of Saturday hopped up on pain meds and muscle relaxers... but I did manage to get a NICE fire going!! Want something done right... gotta do it yourself!!
Sunday we went on another State Game Lands tour... 110, I believe. Nothing really worth writing about. I wish we would have stayed more local and did the one down by Stoney Creek.
I have made HUGE amounts of progress with my crafts! I got my pumpkin jars done and they look great!!
I also made some progress working with the Rit Dye... my first time!!! Not only did I dye some kitchen hand towels... but also some wood!!! (and yes, I meant to do it...LOL) It works WONDERFULLY!!!
I am also hard at work on new pictures in our dining room "window" frame!!! FINALLY!!!!
I have found my creativity is bursting through lately!! So much better than focusing on negative crap, I guess!
Yesterday I had my first appt with my new chiropractor!!! I NEEDED it. My back was working against me since last week... and I was MISERABLE!!
I was completely out of alignment!! He worked on me for about an hour!! I cracked and popped so many times it wasnt even funny... BUT... I was able to walk out of his office a whole lot straighter and in way less pain! Of course, the headache hit once I got home...and NOTHING was taking it away. I drank TONS of water, like I was told.
Today the head ache is gone... but I feel like I was hit by a truck. I guess that is what can be expected when you get realigned. My muscles have to remember where they are actually suppose to be and how to work there. I go back on Thursday to see if I kept my adjustments... and to make any more that may be necessary. I really hope to be back to 100% by next week!
Today I need to do some laundry and pay bills.... BLAH!!! I have 2 adorable little puppies keeping me company... so maybe it wont be so bad! LOL!! OMGoodness... these gals are gettting more and more cute!!! They are starting to play!!!!! ADORABLE!!! They are still wobbly on their paws... but they bat at eachother and try to growl and bark!
I am thinking we may start to try mushy food this week. They are starting to show interest in Ellie's food bowl!! Especially Runway... the little tubby thing. She is ALL about food...LOL!!
Ollie's mom actually asked about them. She is interested in taking one. Not sure how I feel about that. Not that she is a bad person... I always got along with her and we did a lot of stuff together. We have alot in common. I actually really miss hanging out with her. But, it is still Ollie's mom. Ah... I have time to figure it all out.
Guess I should get to work on my list for today... things get all crazy come this evening... with Jeremy Project and gymnastics.
My cuties!!
The weekend was pretty good... even with the insane amount of pain I was feeling. I some how managed to screw up my back... probably working with Gunner.
Friday our roof was FINALLY delivered and we got all of the supplies we needed. AND, Stacy realized that Nathan was very much correct in saying the wheels on the big trailer werent sitting right.
Saturday Stacy and his dad got to work on the roof. Just the 2 of them. We now how scaffolding decorating the front of our house... and they did start to get the wood screwed down. I think they got 2 pieces of metal on the front part of the main roof too.
I spent most of Saturday hopped up on pain meds and muscle relaxers... but I did manage to get a NICE fire going!! Want something done right... gotta do it yourself!!
Sunday we went on another State Game Lands tour... 110, I believe. Nothing really worth writing about. I wish we would have stayed more local and did the one down by Stoney Creek.
I have made HUGE amounts of progress with my crafts! I got my pumpkin jars done and they look great!!
I have found my creativity is bursting through lately!! So much better than focusing on negative crap, I guess!
Yesterday I had my first appt with my new chiropractor!!! I NEEDED it. My back was working against me since last week... and I was MISERABLE!!
I was completely out of alignment!! He worked on me for about an hour!! I cracked and popped so many times it wasnt even funny... BUT... I was able to walk out of his office a whole lot straighter and in way less pain! Of course, the headache hit once I got home...and NOTHING was taking it away. I drank TONS of water, like I was told.
Today the head ache is gone... but I feel like I was hit by a truck. I guess that is what can be expected when you get realigned. My muscles have to remember where they are actually suppose to be and how to work there. I go back on Thursday to see if I kept my adjustments... and to make any more that may be necessary. I really hope to be back to 100% by next week!
Today I need to do some laundry and pay bills.... BLAH!!! I have 2 adorable little puppies keeping me company... so maybe it wont be so bad! LOL!! OMGoodness... these gals are gettting more and more cute!!! They are starting to play!!!!! ADORABLE!!! They are still wobbly on their paws... but they bat at eachother and try to growl and bark!
I am thinking we may start to try mushy food this week. They are starting to show interest in Ellie's food bowl!! Especially Runway... the little tubby thing. She is ALL about food...LOL!!
Ollie's mom actually asked about them. She is interested in taking one. Not sure how I feel about that. Not that she is a bad person... I always got along with her and we did a lot of stuff together. We have alot in common. I actually really miss hanging out with her. But, it is still Ollie's mom. Ah... I have time to figure it all out.
Guess I should get to work on my list for today... things get all crazy come this evening... with Jeremy Project and gymnastics.
My cuties!!
Friday, October 12, 2012
Roof...?!?!?
So here we are... the second Friday in a row... waiting on our roof to be delivered! AND... this whole ordeal was started over 5 weeks ago!!! AND... IT IS PAID FOR!!!! I am getting cranky about it now! BUT... I am letting my hubby deal with it...he needs to "find his voice"! I just need to know so I can plan my weekend! Grrrr!!
Guess what I am doing again today? Yes... straining more pumpkin! LOL!! Added bonus- I get to bake with the pumpkin I am straining today!! :-) Pumpkin Choc Chip Muffins AND Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing!
Yesterday after Stacy got home we headed out to pick up scaffolding at Uncle Rodney's. Then we stopped for a visit at Stacy's parents.... and there was more scaffolding there. Some how the kids managed to get new slippers out of the visit! LOL!! WITH pom poms! I cant be jealous... I got a new crochet pattern while I was there! ;-) Thank you, Grammy.
After our visit we hit TSC for feed... then WalMart so I could pick up a few items I needed for baking today!
Once we got home Brittany and I headed out side... in the dark... to pick peppers. There was a freeze warning and I didnt want to lose what was out there. I have a boat load of hot peppers. If all goes well, I will be making hot pepper jelly this weekend. I have never made it before... but I am going to try it, since I have PLENTY of peppers!!! I WILL be wearing gloves, a mask and eye protection... LMBO! Those things damn near killed me last time!
We also brought in all of my potted plants last night. They are so pretty... I dont want them to die! I guess I will find space in the side kitchen for them over winter.
This morning, as I was watching Nathan do long division ON HIS OWN... I cant help but to be bubbling with pride in him!!! If you had any idea of the NIGHTMARE this task was last year... you would understand why I feel the way I do!!!! So yes, AGAIN, I say I am super proud of him!! :-D
Actually... this year ALL subjects are going pretty smooth. He is definitely becoming more mature and independent in regards to school. I am super pleased!!
Well, nothing is getting done with me just sitting here... Gotta get my butt to work!! :-)
Guess what I am doing again today? Yes... straining more pumpkin! LOL!! Added bonus- I get to bake with the pumpkin I am straining today!! :-) Pumpkin Choc Chip Muffins AND Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing!
Yesterday after Stacy got home we headed out to pick up scaffolding at Uncle Rodney's. Then we stopped for a visit at Stacy's parents.... and there was more scaffolding there. Some how the kids managed to get new slippers out of the visit! LOL!! WITH pom poms! I cant be jealous... I got a new crochet pattern while I was there! ;-) Thank you, Grammy.
After our visit we hit TSC for feed... then WalMart so I could pick up a few items I needed for baking today!
Once we got home Brittany and I headed out side... in the dark... to pick peppers. There was a freeze warning and I didnt want to lose what was out there. I have a boat load of hot peppers. If all goes well, I will be making hot pepper jelly this weekend. I have never made it before... but I am going to try it, since I have PLENTY of peppers!!! I WILL be wearing gloves, a mask and eye protection... LMBO! Those things damn near killed me last time!
We also brought in all of my potted plants last night. They are so pretty... I dont want them to die! I guess I will find space in the side kitchen for them over winter.
This morning, as I was watching Nathan do long division ON HIS OWN... I cant help but to be bubbling with pride in him!!! If you had any idea of the NIGHTMARE this task was last year... you would understand why I feel the way I do!!!! So yes, AGAIN, I say I am super proud of him!! :-D
Actually... this year ALL subjects are going pretty smooth. He is definitely becoming more mature and independent in regards to school. I am super pleased!!
Well, nothing is getting done with me just sitting here... Gotta get my butt to work!! :-)
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Busy next few days!!
The time is FINALLY here!! Our roof should be delivered today!!!
Which means tonight I have to help Stacy clear off his big trailer to haul rough cut wood from Gessner's tomorrow... AND we get to go to Uncle Rodney's to pick up scaffolding. Tomorrow we run for wood after work and start getting it attached to the roof. Saturday Stacy and his Dad start installing the roof!
I also have some baking to do tomorrow... pumpkins all being pureed and strained today. I have to come up with yummy treats (which I am thinking Pumpkin cupcakes and pumpkin choc chip muffins) for the Wic Fire Co (Brenda) to sell at Lyken's Fall Festival Saturday... and get them to her!
I also have to come up with some food for Saturday... cant have hungry guys hanging off the roof.
It will be a busy weekend... that will fly by me way too fast... grrr
Let me just say that I am a little OCD with straining pumpkin!!! OMG... I will be here all day, and all night since I have more in the crockpot now!! LOL!! I am packaging it all up in 2 Cup portions and putting it into the freezer for later use. I have A LOT of pumpkin!!
I have to get to cut my herbs back and get them into the dehydrator. Thank God for the vacuum sealer!! :-) That is one of those kitchen gadgets worth their weight in gold! LOL! That and my KitchenAid!!
I guess I will pull off whatever peppers I have left growing and call it a year for them too. Time to pull out those plants and get those beds covered up for the winter.
We actually have some really nice looking beets and carrots coming up right now too!! Those will have to wait another few weeks... I just dont have the time to deal with them right now.
I have been taking time everyday to play and work Gunner! He LOVES "our" time together... LOL!!
Ellie is starting to teach her babies to play!!! I am pretty sure I saw Runway play bowing at Gunner last night while we had them out on the bed. They are really starting to get their legs too!! They arent real steady... but boy, can they move! They are so damn adorable!!!
Ok... gotta get to getting some things finished up... THEN to pull out the Rit Dye AND ModPodge!! :-)
I have a new recipe I will be sharing tomorrow!!! PORK CHOPS!!
Which means tonight I have to help Stacy clear off his big trailer to haul rough cut wood from Gessner's tomorrow... AND we get to go to Uncle Rodney's to pick up scaffolding. Tomorrow we run for wood after work and start getting it attached to the roof. Saturday Stacy and his Dad start installing the roof!
I also have some baking to do tomorrow... pumpkins all being pureed and strained today. I have to come up with yummy treats (which I am thinking Pumpkin cupcakes and pumpkin choc chip muffins) for the Wic Fire Co (Brenda) to sell at Lyken's Fall Festival Saturday... and get them to her!
I also have to come up with some food for Saturday... cant have hungry guys hanging off the roof.
It will be a busy weekend... that will fly by me way too fast... grrr
Let me just say that I am a little OCD with straining pumpkin!!! OMG... I will be here all day, and all night since I have more in the crockpot now!! LOL!! I am packaging it all up in 2 Cup portions and putting it into the freezer for later use. I have A LOT of pumpkin!!
I have to get to cut my herbs back and get them into the dehydrator. Thank God for the vacuum sealer!! :-) That is one of those kitchen gadgets worth their weight in gold! LOL! That and my KitchenAid!!
I guess I will pull off whatever peppers I have left growing and call it a year for them too. Time to pull out those plants and get those beds covered up for the winter.
We actually have some really nice looking beets and carrots coming up right now too!! Those will have to wait another few weeks... I just dont have the time to deal with them right now.
I have been taking time everyday to play and work Gunner! He LOVES "our" time together... LOL!!
Ellie is starting to teach her babies to play!!! I am pretty sure I saw Runway play bowing at Gunner last night while we had them out on the bed. They are really starting to get their legs too!! They arent real steady... but boy, can they move! They are so damn adorable!!!
Ok... gotta get to getting some things finished up... THEN to pull out the Rit Dye AND ModPodge!! :-)
I have a new recipe I will be sharing tomorrow!!! PORK CHOPS!!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Fall Harvest Gathering!
Wow... I am really starting to get excited about our Fall Harvest Gathering!! I have most of the menu planned... and the kids and I started on some pretty cool crafts to have decorate! I LOVE this time of year... and I LOVE having this gathering every year!!! This year we even decided to let the kids invite a few friends.
I went out today and picked up some last minute craft supplies. I cant even remember the last time I was in walmart ALONE!!! Yep... just me. That NEVER happens!! LOL But it did today because I had an appt with Courtney and her therapist.... which turned out to be a good session! Courtney was in a pretty good mood today so things stayed upbeat and positive.
Yesterday was Britt's gymnastics day. She is doing really well with learning all of the new skills!! She is also benefiting from the extra hour of tumbling she does! They are REALLY shaping her back handspring skills. They already have her connecting 3...and she is getting better at making them "longer". AND, she attempted a back tuck last night... they pointed out what would make it better... so I am hoping they can start working on that with her.
Goodness... I am so much pumpkin to cook off!!! I am hoping to make our way through school and get to work in the kitchen... and on some crafts I have lined up! But we started today pretty late, since I had an appt and ran some errands... Soooo... time will tell!
That's all I have time for today! Hope everyone has a great day!!! ;-)
I went out today and picked up some last minute craft supplies. I cant even remember the last time I was in walmart ALONE!!! Yep... just me. That NEVER happens!! LOL But it did today because I had an appt with Courtney and her therapist.... which turned out to be a good session! Courtney was in a pretty good mood today so things stayed upbeat and positive.
Yesterday was Britt's gymnastics day. She is doing really well with learning all of the new skills!! She is also benefiting from the extra hour of tumbling she does! They are REALLY shaping her back handspring skills. They already have her connecting 3...and she is getting better at making them "longer". AND, she attempted a back tuck last night... they pointed out what would make it better... so I am hoping they can start working on that with her.
Goodness... I am so much pumpkin to cook off!!! I am hoping to make our way through school and get to work in the kitchen... and on some crafts I have lined up! But we started today pretty late, since I had an appt and ran some errands... Soooo... time will tell!
That's all I have time for today! Hope everyone has a great day!!! ;-)
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
10 Great Ways to Be An Unhappy Mom
I have to share this. This blog was written over at "All Things Mothering"... By: Beth Berry
I think it is a great blog!!
I think it is a great blog!!
Over the years, I have pinpointed a few behaviors that — though
widely accepted and even promoted by popular culture — simply don’t
serve me. Changing these behaviors is a process and one that requires both a willingness to take personal responsibility for our choices and a continuous countercultural commitment to creating our lives by a truer, though “less convenient” set of standards.
However inconvenient, these subtle shifts sure have made for better living in my experience — that is, once I sorted through the mainstream confussion surrounding what makes for good living.
10 Great Ways to Be an Unhappy Mom
However inconvenient, these subtle shifts sure have made for better living in my experience — that is, once I sorted through the mainstream confussion surrounding what makes for good living.
10 Great Ways to Be an Unhappy Mom
- Believe that you must have it all now. This one is running rampant through our culture, creating discontent within every demographic. Because we are suddenly aware of the existence of millions of products, experiences and ways to “improve” upon our lives, because millions of dollars are spent annually to creatively convince us that we need that which we’re suddenly aware of AND because instant gratification is now assumed and expected, it’s easy to see how we’ve become totally caught up in this defeating mentality. It is equally present within the mainstay of motherhood. We are taught that we can have careers, babies, balance within our homes, bigger homes, more time with our spouses, more organized closets, physical fitness, money in savings and vacations to counter the chaos (to name a few) ALL AT ONCE. Then, in an attempt to manage impossible loads (or ease our guilt for having failed to do so), we consume — because according to the ones spending the millions, that will solve the problem. Guess who wins in this vicious cycle?
- Compare yourself to other mothers (including your own). You are your own unique version of motherhood. No one right way exists to raise children. Just as comparing our bodies to the photoshopped depictions of the “perfect” woman distorts our sense of beauty and perception of what is desirable or even possible, comparing ourselves to other mothers — the lives of whom are either totally fictitious (instant bliss upon the uncapping of a bottle of laundry detergent), largely made up by our wild imaginations (“so and so” has it “all together”) or comparisons of apples to oranges (remembering your mother’s home when you were a teenager and comparing it to your current home full of babies) — leaves us senselessly unsatisfied and seeking contentment where it can never be found.
- Base your contentment on the state of your house. I like a tidy house. I feel more on top of my game, at ease and productive once it is relatively “clean.” But I would have gone insane (and taken everyone with me) if I held onto the idea that I could only be content once everything was “in its place.” Kids exist to dispel this notion. Likewise, feeling the need to apologize for the state of things upon welcoming unannounced visitors is like saying, “I’m sorry you have to see that we live in this house.” The notion that homes must look like display windows before they are presentable to guests is a crying shame in a culture so starved for community.
- Allow “them” to dictate your priorities. Every time we walk into a store, open a magazine, hop on the highway or turn on the tv, we are bombarded with images that shape our perspective on what’s important. Even seemingly harmless sites such as Pinterest can leave us wanting and wishing when we’d been hoping for inspiration. For more on this subject, head to my blog and check out my most popular post to-date, Let’s All Compare Our Perfect Lives and Then Try to Enjoy Our Day.
- Build stories based upon unevaluated “truths.” So much of the misery we experience in life is based not upon actual occurrences, but the stories we create about things that might happen (which we can’t predict) or could have happened differently (which we can’t change). Byron Katie’s Loving What Is is a must-read if this is something you struggle with.
- Play the martyr role. There are few more direct roads to resentment (both resenting and being resented) than behaving as if your own needs are of little importance compared to the never-ending demands of your family. Statements such as, “I can’t go to the party. I have to stay home to nurse the baby,” are about worthless for encouraging the sense of empathy you are likely needing in that moment. Learning to be an effective communicator will benefit you as much as your relationships.
- Make decisions based on guilt. We often say “yes” to commitments, not because we have a genuine interest in them, but because we have not yet learned to honor our own personal balance over other peoples’ perception of us (or what we think they think). Protecting ourselves from overcommitments is not selfish, it’s just plain smart.
- Stay isolated for the sake of “independence.” Though just about everything in modern (US) culture tells us otherwise, I do not believe we are intended to go it alone as mothers. We are not stronger because we “don’t need help,” nor are we weaker when we ask. Women all over the world raise children together, and have been since the beginning of time. Creating community in our car-dependent, single-family-household society is no easy task, but one that I believe to be essential in any conversation regarding the support of motherhood and the betterment of this country.
- Believe that you’ll be happier when_____. “I’ll be happier when my kids are out of diapers.” “I’ll be happier when we have more monthly income.” “I’ll be happier when the washing machine is replaced, when the husband comes home from work, or when my kitchen has been remodeled.” Really? Will you? How can you be so sure? We have no idea what tomorrow (or next hour) will bring. Deferring happiness until some hypothetical future experience only serves to rob you of the only happiness that truly exists — that which is available in this moment.
- Allow “busy” to become your default answer to, “How are you?” Busy does not equal fulfilled. Busy does not equal valuable nor important. The quality of your experiences is more important than the quantity. Feel like no matter how busy, you never quite do enough? I’ve got a post for that, too. Reword your everyday accomplishments and realize just how productive you really are.
What a weekend!!
We had a pretty awesome weekend!!
Stacy and Brittany REALLY enjoyed their whitewater rafting adventure... and are ready to take on bigger rapids!! They said it was a great experience, and they are glad they went. The picture they brought home is pretty cool!! I am super glad they had a good time.
We all spent Friday night at camp. We got there late, so we didnt have any time to do much other than get our bed ready and go to sleep. Which was fine with me!! I was exhausted.
Saturday morning, after breakfast, we headed out for a nice hike. We decided to stay on the roads and not take any trails... since it was hunting season. We still managed to make the most out of our adventure! Gunner enjoyed fetching sticks... he got to explore the woods some... since I cant throw straight to save my soul! LOL!
Brittany found a leaf with a heart shape missing... we had fun trying to incorporate that leaf into our pictures. The mountains are so insanely beautiful this time of year... I LOVE IT!!
After our walk, we packed up and headed to the Black Forest Inn for late lunch... before he headed out. I laughed so damn hard!!! A giant spider (Halloween decoration) jumped out and scared the shit out of my grandmother... LMAO! I thought she was going to have a heart attack!!! Then both of my grandparents and Courtney ordered Chef Salads.... I have NEVER in my entire life saw such a HUGE salad!!!! It was layered in more 'stuff'... french fries, 2 subs worth of meats, veggies, macaroni, croutons... I was beginning to wonder if it had any lettuce!!! CRAZY!!! My grandmother couldnt figure out how to even eat it. She just kept moving stuff from one spot to the next! No one finished their salad... I am thinking it lasted them all at least 2 more meals!!
Once we were on the road, we decided to take a swing through Forksville. We stopped to see if Stacy's parents were up the camp they stayed out over the weekend... but missed them. (They were out eating at my all time favorite place!!) Then we hit an overlook, which has lots of good memories for us. Then finally decided to call it a day and head home.
Sunday we picked a State Game Land tour and headed out. I LOVE with they open the roads for driving tours! There is NO WAY I would ever be able to hike the entire roads or trails to see all of the awesome things to see... they are just tooooo long!
So, we set out on a 14 mile off road adventure! We were surrounded by JEEPS... which was kinda creepy... but we managed. The scenery was AMAZING!!! Nature is awesome. Even tho I take TONS of pictures... no photograph could every do it justice. Mother Nature is amazing.
After we did the tour... we swung up through Forksville again... just because we were close. WE WILL LIVE THERE SOME DAY!! ;-)
Yesterday I had the house to myself. Gunner had training. He did great... I have some more to learn. LOL
I am constantly impressed with the intelligence of this dog. I am anxious to see how far we can take it... once I get more comfortable with this training style and make some adaptations for my own "disabilities"...
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
So as everyone knows the past few weeks have been "interesting" for me.
I am dealing with a bunch of different things...and starting to see things in a whole new light.
I have a bunch of things to figure out... like how I allowed myself to get sucked so far in to something so twisted and negative. AND... what was truth and what was just bullshit to drum up some drama...and sit back and watch the "show". I have held onto so much anger... and now, all of a sudden, with a break from the negativity... I am finding that it is GONE!
When a person has to go through all of the steps to create an entire 2nd FB account... just to keep up with who is doing what... There is a problem!!! WHO DOES THAT!?!?! If ppl delete and block you... there is a reason!!! Just let them go!!! (I have been deleted and blocked by many... and I dont give a rat's ass!! But I know... there is a certain someone who just deleted and blocked me... that will still TROLL my blogs, because I wont add unknown ppl to my FB) Why go thru all of that shit to remain in their drama?!?!? THEN, constantly want to dwell on it... OMG... NOT HEALTHY!!!!
Getting caught up in a person that does that... yea, not healthy for me either!!! I found it IMPOSSIBLE to let things roll off my back. The constant dwelling and stewing.... OMG... so not worth it. There is an entire part of life I blocked out and avoided... all because of "he said, she said" shit... and NOW, I wonder if any of it was even true!!!
I dont care if ppl like me... I dont care if ppl want to see Stacy with someone else... I dont care if ppl did certain things to "poke" at me... I DONT CARE!!! Stacy and I are together... we are both happy... we enjoy eachother's company... we are exactly what the other needed!!! Ppl can talk all the shit they want... I DONT NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IT!!! Unless of course they want to come directly to ME and say it... then, of course, I will gladly listen.
Now that I hit my breaking point... and started to "bad react" (which I dont really think I did)... there was so much bullshit. But whatever.
I can only imagine what negative things were said about me ... and my needy kids. But ya know what... I love my kids... I love having my kids participate in things with me. I love that they are also my friends. I would be lost without them!! There is nothing wrong with that.
Yes, because my kids have different "needs"... somethings need to be tailored to make it easier for them... and at times harder on me. I am their mom... it is my job. That means more work for me... yep, and they are worth it.
I cant justify NOT doing tasks to help them cope with day to day life... just so that it isnt more work for me!! Life will always be difficult for them... and they will learn to cope in their own way... but for now... I will help them in whatever way I can! And I will continue to PULL them out of the shell they try so hard to hide it!
I am so frustrated... and angry. There are reasons I dont trust ppl.... HELLO... here they are!
OK... time to get back to making my kids life easier!! We have math to to conquer!! And I have smiles to watch... self esteem to build... lives to mold! :-D
Stacy and Brittany REALLY enjoyed their whitewater rafting adventure... and are ready to take on bigger rapids!! They said it was a great experience, and they are glad they went. The picture they brought home is pretty cool!! I am super glad they had a good time.
We all spent Friday night at camp. We got there late, so we didnt have any time to do much other than get our bed ready and go to sleep. Which was fine with me!! I was exhausted.
Saturday morning, after breakfast, we headed out for a nice hike. We decided to stay on the roads and not take any trails... since it was hunting season. We still managed to make the most out of our adventure! Gunner enjoyed fetching sticks... he got to explore the woods some... since I cant throw straight to save my soul! LOL!
Brittany found a leaf with a heart shape missing... we had fun trying to incorporate that leaf into our pictures. The mountains are so insanely beautiful this time of year... I LOVE IT!!
After our walk, we packed up and headed to the Black Forest Inn for late lunch... before he headed out. I laughed so damn hard!!! A giant spider (Halloween decoration) jumped out and scared the shit out of my grandmother... LMAO! I thought she was going to have a heart attack!!! Then both of my grandparents and Courtney ordered Chef Salads.... I have NEVER in my entire life saw such a HUGE salad!!!! It was layered in more 'stuff'... french fries, 2 subs worth of meats, veggies, macaroni, croutons... I was beginning to wonder if it had any lettuce!!! CRAZY!!! My grandmother couldnt figure out how to even eat it. She just kept moving stuff from one spot to the next! No one finished their salad... I am thinking it lasted them all at least 2 more meals!!
Once we were on the road, we decided to take a swing through Forksville. We stopped to see if Stacy's parents were up the camp they stayed out over the weekend... but missed them. (They were out eating at my all time favorite place!!) Then we hit an overlook, which has lots of good memories for us. Then finally decided to call it a day and head home.
Sunday we picked a State Game Land tour and headed out. I LOVE with they open the roads for driving tours! There is NO WAY I would ever be able to hike the entire roads or trails to see all of the awesome things to see... they are just tooooo long!
So, we set out on a 14 mile off road adventure! We were surrounded by JEEPS... which was kinda creepy... but we managed. The scenery was AMAZING!!! Nature is awesome. Even tho I take TONS of pictures... no photograph could every do it justice. Mother Nature is amazing.
After we did the tour... we swung up through Forksville again... just because we were close. WE WILL LIVE THERE SOME DAY!! ;-)
Yesterday I had the house to myself. Gunner had training. He did great... I have some more to learn. LOL
I am constantly impressed with the intelligence of this dog. I am anxious to see how far we can take it... once I get more comfortable with this training style and make some adaptations for my own "disabilities"...
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
So as everyone knows the past few weeks have been "interesting" for me.
I am dealing with a bunch of different things...and starting to see things in a whole new light.
I have a bunch of things to figure out... like how I allowed myself to get sucked so far in to something so twisted and negative. AND... what was truth and what was just bullshit to drum up some drama...and sit back and watch the "show". I have held onto so much anger... and now, all of a sudden, with a break from the negativity... I am finding that it is GONE!
When a person has to go through all of the steps to create an entire 2nd FB account... just to keep up with who is doing what... There is a problem!!! WHO DOES THAT!?!?! If ppl delete and block you... there is a reason!!! Just let them go!!! (I have been deleted and blocked by many... and I dont give a rat's ass!! But I know... there is a certain someone who just deleted and blocked me... that will still TROLL my blogs, because I wont add unknown ppl to my FB) Why go thru all of that shit to remain in their drama?!?!? THEN, constantly want to dwell on it... OMG... NOT HEALTHY!!!!
Getting caught up in a person that does that... yea, not healthy for me either!!! I found it IMPOSSIBLE to let things roll off my back. The constant dwelling and stewing.... OMG... so not worth it. There is an entire part of life I blocked out and avoided... all because of "he said, she said" shit... and NOW, I wonder if any of it was even true!!!
I dont care if ppl like me... I dont care if ppl want to see Stacy with someone else... I dont care if ppl did certain things to "poke" at me... I DONT CARE!!! Stacy and I are together... we are both happy... we enjoy eachother's company... we are exactly what the other needed!!! Ppl can talk all the shit they want... I DONT NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IT!!! Unless of course they want to come directly to ME and say it... then, of course, I will gladly listen.
Now that I hit my breaking point... and started to "bad react" (which I dont really think I did)... there was so much bullshit. But whatever.
I can only imagine what negative things were said about me ... and my needy kids. But ya know what... I love my kids... I love having my kids participate in things with me. I love that they are also my friends. I would be lost without them!! There is nothing wrong with that.
Yes, because my kids have different "needs"... somethings need to be tailored to make it easier for them... and at times harder on me. I am their mom... it is my job. That means more work for me... yep, and they are worth it.
I cant justify NOT doing tasks to help them cope with day to day life... just so that it isnt more work for me!! Life will always be difficult for them... and they will learn to cope in their own way... but for now... I will help them in whatever way I can! And I will continue to PULL them out of the shell they try so hard to hide it!
I am so frustrated... and angry. There are reasons I dont trust ppl.... HELLO... here they are!
OK... time to get back to making my kids life easier!! We have math to to conquer!! And I have smiles to watch... self esteem to build... lives to mold! :-D
Friday, October 5, 2012
A quick update...
So I havent really been keeping everyone updated with what we have going on. I have only been sharing the things I have swirling around in my head.
Yesterday was another rather productive day! I have found that when I leave my cell phone sitting next to my bed all day... I am A LOT less distracted!! I have the ability to better focus on what is important... teaching my kids, training my dogs, grooming, working on projects in my house... etc!
I have also lost a boat load of negativity. The saying, "What you dont know wont hurt ya"... yea... completely true! There are reasons I block ppl from my life, my email, my FB page. Because their actions and the energy that they create are toxic. I enjoy the peace I get from not getting caught up in gossip and stories. Although, I must admit, it is sometimes fun...but still toxic, and not something I can deal with every day.
Last week was a real eye opening week for me. Tomorrow is never promised. I only have these kids with me for so long... and I need to do the best I can do to make the most of the time we do have together! I think my life and my priorities got a bit out of whack ... and I am doing all I can to sort it all out and get things back in order.
I am BLESSED with the opportunity to stay home and teach my kids. THAT is why I am home. My sole purpose!! They arent "bothering" me or being less independent when they need or ask for my help. It is my responsibility to be here for them and show them they way. There will be a day when they no longer need me or want to ask me anything... I dont know how I really feel about that.
Yesterday was such an amazing day! After a year of struggling with long division... we FINALLY found a way to make it click for Nathan!!! I am so happy... and so proud of him!! The look in his eyes and seeing him proud of himself was AWESOME! I am so glad I got to experience that with him.
I am no better than anyone else. I make my fair share of mistakes. I dont need to get annoyed with other ppls mistakes! Why not take the opportunity to lend a hand... and show some support. That is what I would like when it is my turn to screw up!! And boy, I screw up!!
My biggest screw up is being sucked into drama that doesnt even concern me... if even just to chit chat about it. I sit and judge. Who the hell am I to judge?!? Granted... it is obvious that some ppl just dont have their head on straight... and they may never. But is it directly affecting me? NOPE! Is it any of my damn business? NOPE! Can I do anything about it? NOPE! Will they ever change? Probably Not! Soooo... who really cares!!! From this point on... NOT ME!!
I have obviously had a fairly shitty past week. I lost my awesome dog... I've been sick... I blew out my eardrum...
I dont think it is the Universe telling me to "listen more and bad react less"...
I dont think I have "bad react"ed at all lately. I just have stopped taking part in the crap. I dont think I reacted badly in any way to the situations that were dealt to me... I am not a person to bite my tongue. I reacted appropriately given the information I was given.
I think the Universe is telling me to get moving on a more positive and productive lifestyle... with less gossip and drama and to mind my own business and to stop judging others!!!
I didnt need the crap this week... it was my breaking point. And now I will move forward in the best way I see fit. Staying positive and uplifting to all who are around me.
No more wasting energy... it just isnt healthy.
Today 2 of my kids head off to the cabin with my grandparents for the weekend... while the other goes on an adventure with Stacy... then we will join everyone at the cabin. The kids are staying until Monday... Stacy and I are only staying a night.
Gunner gets the rest of his shots today... Oh the joy!! LOL Then I get to enjoy some peace and quiet in my house while doing some grooming...I hope the dogs like my choice of music!! ;-)
Am I in a "bubble"... yea, some could say that. I dont really see it that way. I see it as being peaceful and enjoying some time ALONE! That doesnt make me depressed... or mental. It makes me HUMAN!
As I sit back and think this week. I AM TRULY HAPPY!! I am happy with my husband.. 95% of the time. LOL (He would probably say the same about me... and I am ok with it!) We dont have a perfect marriage... but who does?!?! We are drawn to eachother for a reason... because we are exactly what the other needs to have balance. We enjoy spending time together... We love our family adventures... My husband chooses to spend time with me and the kids. In the big picture... THAT is what it is all about!
I am blessed with 4 awesome kids!!! They are kids... they screw up... that is how they learn. I wish some would learn a bit faster... but in the big picture, my kids are amazing!! I have 1 who graduated high school... 1 about to graduate high school (and kicking ass "owning" her autism... I am super proud of her accomplishments!)... I have an awesome 14 yr old and 10 yr old, both following their own paths and making pretty damn good choices thus far. I am NOT a grandmother yet. My kids dont smoke, drink or do drugs... they arent out breaking any major laws (ok, traffic laws are a bit rough for one of my kids... but also my husband, so I will blame that on Stacy! LOL!!)
As I see it... I have to be doing things at least partially right! And I want to keep it up!!
(That isnt me having my head up my butt... it is me re-aligning life and making some changes)
I am blessed with a great home... (shitty neighbors that keep me focused on what I NEVER want to become)... We have family who would be there for us in a heartbeat if we needed them, even if we didnt needed them... We live a good life, we can pay our bills, our kids have everything they need (and most of what they want)... And soon we will have that metal roof my husband has wanted to badly!! LOL!
We are in a good place... and I am forever thankful!!
Ok... I think my rant here is pretty much done. Time to get my kids fed and packed up. Spend some more time on clutter control (I have a stack of mail that needs dealt with and tossed out)... because my kids cant even think right when they are living in chaos...and neither can I!!! Once again... I will profess my love for FlyLady... the routines that may be "boring"... but sooo worth sticking with, and allow me to have peace of mind and a house that doesnt completely embarrass me...most of the time! LOL
I hope everyone enjoys their day... it is suppose to be beautiful out today!!
I also pray for a safe rafting trip for Stacy and Britt... during their father/daughter bonding time. A safe trip up north for my grandparents and kids... Oh... and that Gunner doesnt eat anyone while we are at the Vet!! I guess this will be a true test of our new training!!!
Yesterday was another rather productive day! I have found that when I leave my cell phone sitting next to my bed all day... I am A LOT less distracted!! I have the ability to better focus on what is important... teaching my kids, training my dogs, grooming, working on projects in my house... etc!
I have also lost a boat load of negativity. The saying, "What you dont know wont hurt ya"... yea... completely true! There are reasons I block ppl from my life, my email, my FB page. Because their actions and the energy that they create are toxic. I enjoy the peace I get from not getting caught up in gossip and stories. Although, I must admit, it is sometimes fun...but still toxic, and not something I can deal with every day.
Last week was a real eye opening week for me. Tomorrow is never promised. I only have these kids with me for so long... and I need to do the best I can do to make the most of the time we do have together! I think my life and my priorities got a bit out of whack ... and I am doing all I can to sort it all out and get things back in order.
I am BLESSED with the opportunity to stay home and teach my kids. THAT is why I am home. My sole purpose!! They arent "bothering" me or being less independent when they need or ask for my help. It is my responsibility to be here for them and show them they way. There will be a day when they no longer need me or want to ask me anything... I dont know how I really feel about that.
Yesterday was such an amazing day! After a year of struggling with long division... we FINALLY found a way to make it click for Nathan!!! I am so happy... and so proud of him!! The look in his eyes and seeing him proud of himself was AWESOME! I am so glad I got to experience that with him.
I am no better than anyone else. I make my fair share of mistakes. I dont need to get annoyed with other ppls mistakes! Why not take the opportunity to lend a hand... and show some support. That is what I would like when it is my turn to screw up!! And boy, I screw up!!
My biggest screw up is being sucked into drama that doesnt even concern me... if even just to chit chat about it. I sit and judge. Who the hell am I to judge?!? Granted... it is obvious that some ppl just dont have their head on straight... and they may never. But is it directly affecting me? NOPE! Is it any of my damn business? NOPE! Can I do anything about it? NOPE! Will they ever change? Probably Not! Soooo... who really cares!!! From this point on... NOT ME!!
I have obviously had a fairly shitty past week. I lost my awesome dog... I've been sick... I blew out my eardrum...
I dont think it is the Universe telling me to "listen more and bad react less"...
I dont think I have "bad react"ed at all lately. I just have stopped taking part in the crap. I dont think I reacted badly in any way to the situations that were dealt to me... I am not a person to bite my tongue. I reacted appropriately given the information I was given.
I think the Universe is telling me to get moving on a more positive and productive lifestyle... with less gossip and drama and to mind my own business and to stop judging others!!!
I didnt need the crap this week... it was my breaking point. And now I will move forward in the best way I see fit. Staying positive and uplifting to all who are around me.
No more wasting energy... it just isnt healthy.
Today 2 of my kids head off to the cabin with my grandparents for the weekend... while the other goes on an adventure with Stacy... then we will join everyone at the cabin. The kids are staying until Monday... Stacy and I are only staying a night.
Gunner gets the rest of his shots today... Oh the joy!! LOL Then I get to enjoy some peace and quiet in my house while doing some grooming...I hope the dogs like my choice of music!! ;-)
Am I in a "bubble"... yea, some could say that. I dont really see it that way. I see it as being peaceful and enjoying some time ALONE! That doesnt make me depressed... or mental. It makes me HUMAN!
As I sit back and think this week. I AM TRULY HAPPY!! I am happy with my husband.. 95% of the time. LOL (He would probably say the same about me... and I am ok with it!) We dont have a perfect marriage... but who does?!?! We are drawn to eachother for a reason... because we are exactly what the other needs to have balance. We enjoy spending time together... We love our family adventures... My husband chooses to spend time with me and the kids. In the big picture... THAT is what it is all about!
I am blessed with 4 awesome kids!!! They are kids... they screw up... that is how they learn. I wish some would learn a bit faster... but in the big picture, my kids are amazing!! I have 1 who graduated high school... 1 about to graduate high school (and kicking ass "owning" her autism... I am super proud of her accomplishments!)... I have an awesome 14 yr old and 10 yr old, both following their own paths and making pretty damn good choices thus far. I am NOT a grandmother yet. My kids dont smoke, drink or do drugs... they arent out breaking any major laws (ok, traffic laws are a bit rough for one of my kids... but also my husband, so I will blame that on Stacy! LOL!!)
As I see it... I have to be doing things at least partially right! And I want to keep it up!!
(That isnt me having my head up my butt... it is me re-aligning life and making some changes)
I am blessed with a great home... (shitty neighbors that keep me focused on what I NEVER want to become)... We have family who would be there for us in a heartbeat if we needed them, even if we didnt needed them... We live a good life, we can pay our bills, our kids have everything they need (and most of what they want)... And soon we will have that metal roof my husband has wanted to badly!! LOL!
We are in a good place... and I am forever thankful!!
Ok... I think my rant here is pretty much done. Time to get my kids fed and packed up. Spend some more time on clutter control (I have a stack of mail that needs dealt with and tossed out)... because my kids cant even think right when they are living in chaos...and neither can I!!! Once again... I will profess my love for FlyLady... the routines that may be "boring"... but sooo worth sticking with, and allow me to have peace of mind and a house that doesnt completely embarrass me...most of the time! LOL
I hope everyone enjoys their day... it is suppose to be beautiful out today!!
I also pray for a safe rafting trip for Stacy and Britt... during their father/daughter bonding time. A safe trip up north for my grandparents and kids... Oh... and that Gunner doesnt eat anyone while we are at the Vet!! I guess this will be a true test of our new training!!!
Thursday, October 4, 2012
More reflecting... Another list...
As I sit and look back over my life... I realize that all of the good I have in my life right now... are all a result of changes I have made in my past.
I have never really been a huge fan of change. Like many ppl, I have fought change tooth and nail!! I have always liked my "comfort zone" and prefered to stay in it.
BUT... over the past few days... I am really seeing that once I muster up the courage to make a change, as my history has shown, things always end up better!!
Soooo... as per what I have been doing all week... I started a "list"... of how "CHANGE" can/has benefited me. This way, whenever I try to resist change... I have a reminder of why it is good!!!
(I am needing this list right now... as I am trying really hard to make some changes... and with the baby steps I am taking, I am already seeing positive results)
*PERSONAL GROWTH This one is my favorite. Change allows me to grow and learn. I discover new aspects of who I am. And even if a change doesnt get me to exactly where I wanted to be... it taught me a lesson or two in the process.
*FLEXIBILITY Making changes often, leads me to be more flexible and adapt to new situations better each time...expecially when something unexpected happens.
*IMPROVEMENT I am always looking for ways to improve... my life, our situation, my home, etc None of it would happen without "change"
*VALUES Change always forces me to take a look at myself and my life... a different perspective sometimes... which helps me to reevaluate my values.
*THE TRICKLE DOWN EFFECT Big, huge changes are difficult for me... soooo one small change will lead to another and another... eventually I will get to where I want to be.
*STRENGTH Not all changes lead to a big, happy picture... they can sometimes bring a few hardships. Lord knows I have had my fair share. But what doesnt kill me makes me stronger!!
*OPPORTUNITIES I dont have a crystal ball. I have no idea what is around every turn. What I do know is that every turn I make there will be new and exciting experiences and opportunities.
*NEW BEGINNINGS Change = The closing of one chapter and the opening of a new chapter.
*ROUTINE Well, after awhile routines get boring and make life uninteresting. I sure dont want that!
I have never really been a huge fan of change. Like many ppl, I have fought change tooth and nail!! I have always liked my "comfort zone" and prefered to stay in it.
BUT... over the past few days... I am really seeing that once I muster up the courage to make a change, as my history has shown, things always end up better!!
Soooo... as per what I have been doing all week... I started a "list"... of how "CHANGE" can/has benefited me. This way, whenever I try to resist change... I have a reminder of why it is good!!!
(I am needing this list right now... as I am trying really hard to make some changes... and with the baby steps I am taking, I am already seeing positive results)
*PERSONAL GROWTH This one is my favorite. Change allows me to grow and learn. I discover new aspects of who I am. And even if a change doesnt get me to exactly where I wanted to be... it taught me a lesson or two in the process.
*FLEXIBILITY Making changes often, leads me to be more flexible and adapt to new situations better each time...expecially when something unexpected happens.
*IMPROVEMENT I am always looking for ways to improve... my life, our situation, my home, etc None of it would happen without "change"
*VALUES Change always forces me to take a look at myself and my life... a different perspective sometimes... which helps me to reevaluate my values.
*THE TRICKLE DOWN EFFECT Big, huge changes are difficult for me... soooo one small change will lead to another and another... eventually I will get to where I want to be.
*STRENGTH Not all changes lead to a big, happy picture... they can sometimes bring a few hardships. Lord knows I have had my fair share. But what doesnt kill me makes me stronger!!
*OPPORTUNITIES I dont have a crystal ball. I have no idea what is around every turn. What I do know is that every turn I make there will be new and exciting experiences and opportunities.
*NEW BEGINNINGS Change = The closing of one chapter and the opening of a new chapter.
*ROUTINE Well, after awhile routines get boring and make life uninteresting. I sure dont want that!
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Some things to realize and accept...
I have come to some sort of place in life... where I am spending A
LOT of time time just thinking. I know it all stems from losing my
beloved Amaruq. I havent been taking it very well... I know. BUT, it
has brought me to where I sit right now. At a point where I am ready
for things to be different... and I am ready to make the changes
needed.
Anyway... just some things I have realized and jotted down over the past few days of thinking...
* Beauty cannot be defined
* Perfection cannot be obtained (and it’s boring anyway)
* Love will be messy at times
* Other people will judge (who cares!)
* Sometimes there is no right or wrong
* No one else knows what’s right for us
* Tomorrow is uncertain
* There are things we don’t know (And there are things we don’t know that we don’t know! Crazy thought!)
* No other person can make us feel whole
* We can’t change other people
* There are some things we can’t change about ourselves (I will always have a fractured spine and have blue eyes!!)
* Sometimes there are gifts in the things we want to change (Because of my fractured spine... I wont kill myself being stupid on a motorcycle!!)
* We are worthy, just as we are (each and every one of us! Dont let anyone tell you different!!)
* We are going to age
* We are more than any one role. (We aren’t one-dimensional, and we don’t have to be...I’m multifaceted and owning it!)
* We are going to redefine ourselves
* We will occasionally have to do things we don’t want to do
* We will hurt at times (Pain is inevitable)
* We will mess up at times
* People won’t always forgive us
* Peace is forgiving ourselves
* We won’t always like the consequences of our actions
* We always have a choice in how we respond to what happens (No matter what our circumstances, we can choose what we do with them. We can decide it’s the end of the world, or start fresh)
* We are never alone
* We will lose things and people we love (but we can gain something from every loss)
* Everything is cyclical (For every pain, there will be pleasure... Nothing stays the same)
* There are some things we may never understand (life is a mystery)
* The worst that could possibly happen may happen
* The worst that could possibly happen might not be that bad
* We may not get everything we think we want ("wants" are ever changing anyway)
* Everything we do matters
Anyway... just some things I have realized and jotted down over the past few days of thinking...
* Beauty cannot be defined
* Perfection cannot be obtained (and it’s boring anyway)
* Love will be messy at times
* Other people will judge (who cares!)
* Sometimes there is no right or wrong
* No one else knows what’s right for us
* Tomorrow is uncertain
* There are things we don’t know (And there are things we don’t know that we don’t know! Crazy thought!)
* No other person can make us feel whole
* We can’t change other people
* There are some things we can’t change about ourselves (I will always have a fractured spine and have blue eyes!!)
* Sometimes there are gifts in the things we want to change (Because of my fractured spine... I wont kill myself being stupid on a motorcycle!!)
* We are worthy, just as we are (each and every one of us! Dont let anyone tell you different!!)
* We are going to age
* We are more than any one role. (We aren’t one-dimensional, and we don’t have to be...I’m multifaceted and owning it!)
* We are going to redefine ourselves
* We will occasionally have to do things we don’t want to do
* We will hurt at times (Pain is inevitable)
* We will mess up at times
* People won’t always forgive us
* Peace is forgiving ourselves
* We won’t always like the consequences of our actions
* We always have a choice in how we respond to what happens (No matter what our circumstances, we can choose what we do with them. We can decide it’s the end of the world, or start fresh)
* We are never alone
* We will lose things and people we love (but we can gain something from every loss)
* Everything is cyclical (For every pain, there will be pleasure... Nothing stays the same)
* There are some things we may never understand (life is a mystery)
* The worst that could possibly happen may happen
* The worst that could possibly happen might not be that bad
* We may not get everything we think we want ("wants" are ever changing anyway)
* Everything we do matters
Monday, October 1, 2012
Rough Times
It has been pretty obvious things have been a bit hard for us lately. Losing Amaruq has really weighed on us.
That pup has been through it all with us over the past 9 yrs... the constant everyone had, even while our lives twisted and turned in new directions. Nathan doesnt even remember a time in his life without Amaruq... since he was barely 2 yrs old when I brought Amaruq home as a puppy! AND he would always be laying in his spot on the floor when Nathan would sit on the couch and read out loud!!
Needless to say it has been a VERY emotional few days... and I am sure it wont be getting much better any time soon.
I think we FINALLY got all of the measurements down for our roof... and we are all set to order it TODAY!! This has been a 2-3 week ordeal!! Delivery will be Friday... and then we get to begin piecing together the puzzle and installing it!!! I will be one happy lady once it is all finished!
Stacy and Brittany are going on a WhiteWater Rafting Adventure this Friday!! They are pretty darn excited!!! Brittany is fighting the cold we have been passing around... but I am sure she will be all better by Friday.
Once they are home from that... the kids will be leaving for our annual cabin trip with my grandparents. Since our roof will be delivered on Friday... we wont be going. We are hoping the weather permits installing our new roof!!
(Oh, I did end up changing my mind on the color... still a blue, just a different shade now... LOL)
Saturday was a lost cause for us. With art lessons and me requiring a nap (because I felt like shit)... plus everyone being so depressed... So, NOTHING got done around here on Saturday. Nathan did muster the spirit to go to his skating lessons... and then Stacy took the all ghost hunting after that.
Yesterday tho... we got TONS done!! My shop got scrubbed from top to bottom, and we are working on some trim work and touch up work... Stacy also sealed around the floor so I can get a bit more aggressive when cleaning and not worry about water soaking up through the dry wall. I also painted the benches in our side kitchen... LOVE the way they look now. I repotted some plants. The girls dusted the hutch and all of the plates and things on it. AND... the pool was put away for the winter!!
Once the rain hit, we packed everything up and called it quits. When the sun came back out 20 minutes later... we decided to go on a family adventure!
We decided on a trip to Centralia! We all really like it there. We managed to walked ALL of Graffiti Highway... and avoid getting hit by ppl on 4 wheelers!! :-) We visited the oldest cemetery in the ghost town... then went to the area with the fires still burning to warm up! LOL
It was a good day!
I have sooooo much to do today!!! Laundry (gotta get everything washed and hung out before we have 2 days of rain), must pay bills, go grocery shopping... get things ready for the weekend. AND, make sure we work ahead some on school work!
No pressure... LOL!!
Well, that is all I have time for today... my next load of laundry is waiting to be hung!
I hope everyone has a great first day of OCTOBER!!! (Only 26 more days until my "baby" is 11!!)
That pup has been through it all with us over the past 9 yrs... the constant everyone had, even while our lives twisted and turned in new directions. Nathan doesnt even remember a time in his life without Amaruq... since he was barely 2 yrs old when I brought Amaruq home as a puppy! AND he would always be laying in his spot on the floor when Nathan would sit on the couch and read out loud!!
Needless to say it has been a VERY emotional few days... and I am sure it wont be getting much better any time soon.
I think we FINALLY got all of the measurements down for our roof... and we are all set to order it TODAY!! This has been a 2-3 week ordeal!! Delivery will be Friday... and then we get to begin piecing together the puzzle and installing it!!! I will be one happy lady once it is all finished!
Stacy and Brittany are going on a WhiteWater Rafting Adventure this Friday!! They are pretty darn excited!!! Brittany is fighting the cold we have been passing around... but I am sure she will be all better by Friday.
Once they are home from that... the kids will be leaving for our annual cabin trip with my grandparents. Since our roof will be delivered on Friday... we wont be going. We are hoping the weather permits installing our new roof!!
(Oh, I did end up changing my mind on the color... still a blue, just a different shade now... LOL)
Saturday was a lost cause for us. With art lessons and me requiring a nap (because I felt like shit)... plus everyone being so depressed... So, NOTHING got done around here on Saturday. Nathan did muster the spirit to go to his skating lessons... and then Stacy took the all ghost hunting after that.
Yesterday tho... we got TONS done!! My shop got scrubbed from top to bottom, and we are working on some trim work and touch up work... Stacy also sealed around the floor so I can get a bit more aggressive when cleaning and not worry about water soaking up through the dry wall. I also painted the benches in our side kitchen... LOVE the way they look now. I repotted some plants. The girls dusted the hutch and all of the plates and things on it. AND... the pool was put away for the winter!!
Once the rain hit, we packed everything up and called it quits. When the sun came back out 20 minutes later... we decided to go on a family adventure!
We decided on a trip to Centralia! We all really like it there. We managed to walked ALL of Graffiti Highway... and avoid getting hit by ppl on 4 wheelers!! :-) We visited the oldest cemetery in the ghost town... then went to the area with the fires still burning to warm up! LOL
It was a good day!
I have sooooo much to do today!!! Laundry (gotta get everything washed and hung out before we have 2 days of rain), must pay bills, go grocery shopping... get things ready for the weekend. AND, make sure we work ahead some on school work!
No pressure... LOL!!
Well, that is all I have time for today... my next load of laundry is waiting to be hung!
I hope everyone has a great first day of OCTOBER!!! (Only 26 more days until my "baby" is 11!!)
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