- The Mansion
- A Christmas Carol
- Reading to kids: Five Little Peppers
- Johnny Tremain
- Early Thunder
- (to kids) d'Aulaires Christopher Columbus
- with Ruby: Squanto, Friend of the Pilgrims
- to Kids: Ben and Me
- Sign of the Beaver
- Guests
- Read with Ruby: The Courage of Sarah Noble
- Reading to kids: Pilgrim Stories
- (to kids) Leif the Lucky
- Calico Captive
- 1776
- The Candy Shop War
- Island of the Blue Dolphins
- Reading Now: He Restoreth My Soul
- A White Bird Flying
- Harry Potter Series
- Akin to Anne
- The Accidental Tourist (don't recommend)
- Great Expectations (abriged)
- A Gathering of Days
- The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
- Fablehaven Series
- Kindred Spirit
- Maud
- Further Chronicles of Avonlea
- Chronicles of Avonlea
- Emily of New Moon Series
- Anne of Green Gables Series
We've Given Up the Easy Life for the Good Life
Friday, December 31, 2010
Preserving the 2010 Book list
A new year means time for a new book list. It has been fun keeping track. This is the 2010 list in reverse order.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Traditions
Several years and a couple of kids ago, we picked up a tradition from a friend.
Each of the children makes each of their family members a handmade gift.
Each of the children is assigned a "giving day" during the month of December where they have the privilege of giving their gifts. As they give their gifts, each person tells us something they love about the "giver". We write down the things that were said and keep them in a special Christmas scrapbook.
It is a very nice tradition. We have really loved it. It has helped my kids catch the joy of giving.
But we have more kids now, and bigger kids with bigger ideas.
6 kids times 6 big ideas equals a very busy December for mom.
I want them to be able to feel the joy of making something beautiful that they imagined themselves, but these are skills that require instruction and somebody sitting there watching and helping.
It was hard this year, and we ran out of days. Instead of having a day for each child, we just did a big gift exchange this evening.
I think I liked it better this way.
It was very exciting for everyone. We worked on projects all day long, and the kids scrambled to get the house clean before dad got home.
Dad helped Brandon finish his gift for Mom while Nathan and Mom made dinner.
Mom and Nathan finished his last project while Brandon quickly ate dinner.
Mom ate quickly so she could help Brandon with his projects while the rest of the family ate.
It was fun to feel the anticipation and excitement in the air.
"How many more minutes do you think you'll be, Mom?" asks Nathan (the family manager) outside the sewing room door.
"Just about ten, I think."
We drew names from a cup to see whose turn it was to wear the Santa hat.
It was wonderful to see the excitement as a name was drawn.
Brandon went first.
He had practiced sewing on the serger as well as the machine to make the blankets--one for Sarajoy and one for me! Sarajoy insisted on snuggling in her new blankie each time she nursed during the evening.
He had noticed that Ruby kept wanting to wear the Santa hats she had made for the boys last year, so he decided to make her one. We made her a skirt to go with it.
He learned to use a knitting loom while making a hat for Nathan.
He filled a backpack with items from Simon's favorite show: Diego. He's a little boy who rescues animals. It had a little flashlight, a rope, a map, and a little laptop that Brandon made from the pop-up lid of a baby wipes package. Simon was enthralled, and couldn't figure out why Daisy wasn't ready to run off and play Diego right then.
For Daisy, he made a Naughty/Nice list so she could practice reading names. He made it very authentic looking by using brown paper bag and decorating it beautifully. ( I was so thankful that he did this one all on his own!)
Dad got a framed drawing of the mountains since Brandon is so good at drawing and Dallin loves to hike.
Simon got to help me make the family's ornaments for the year. I like to give each of the kids an ornament with their picture on it. This year I made wire stars at relief society. I slipped pictures inside while Simon threaded the ribbon through the loop in the top. He was very excited to help me wrap and was surprisingly good at placing the tape in just the right place. He carried the gifts around in a sack for awhile, pretending to be Santa.
Daisy and I dipped pretzels and peanuts in melted chocolate today while the kids were outside in the snow. She was a little disappointed that they came in before we were done so it wasn't a surprise.
Her disappointment disappeared when I suggested she hide her goody bags around the room and make the kids find them. Fun for everyone! The best part is that after everyone had found a bag, Daisy remembered that she had made one for herself, but she couldn't remember where she'd hid all of the bags or which ones had been found. Everybody searched until the last bag was discovered.
Ruby was overjoyed to pull her own name from the mug.
She developed some good computer skills by making some documents with pictures and text--A counting book for Simon with all of his favorite characters, and a coloring book with things that Daisy likes.
Simon even stopped his Diego adventure for several minutes to study his little book.
She caught on quickly to finger-knitting and made Brandon a colorful scarf.
Nathan had mentioned once that he wanted a chef's hat. It turned out a lot more poofy than we expected, but we all had a good laugh about it.
Sarajoy got a wooden-clothespin-baby Jesus doll, wrapped in a blanket. Ruby made a little pillow and we glued raffia on it to look like straw. It fits snugly in a tiny square tin that is just the right size to keep in our Sunday bag. Little Jesus was immediately taken from the tin and snuggled against baby sister's cheek.
Dad got a hankie with a felt heart sewn on and a letter "D".
Mom got a very pretty home made paper ornament with tin foil glued on and then colored with permanent marker. Brandon helped her with that one to keep it a surprise.
Nathan's turn finally came.
He learned crochet at the last minute when he realized Brandon would not be done with the hat loom in time.
It is a hard thing to learn when you are in a hurry, but he toughed it out. By today, he wasn't needing my help at all.
He made Daisy a Santa hat and skirt like Ruby's.
He made Sarajoy a little pillow to match the blanket from Brandon. It is adorable. It only has a couple of layers of batting in it so it won't be too puffy. Just right for a baby. She was thrilled to have her own pillow, and giggled all the way to bed because she was so excited to sleep on it.
Ruby got a fleece scarf that is a nice accessory to her Santa outfit.
And, I really cheated on Simon's gift from Nathan. I had actually made it all by myself the day before with a friend. I thought too late that I should have had one of the kids help me.
It was still fun to let Nathan have the joy of giving it to him. Simon was totally thrilled! It is double sided, and my friend had the great idea to not make it associated with a character. So one side has a big "S" with an arrow behind it so he can be "Super Simon", and the other side is bright lime green with a black lightning bolt on it.
Sarajoy gave loves to everyone, and Daddy passed out treats he had gotten at work.
I think Christmas morning will be a little anticlimactic for me after this.
I almost collapsed when, at 9pm, it dawned on me that the kids have school tomorrow! The boys and Dad had all just left for basketball practice. Somewhere I found the strength to pull 4 lunches together and help two tired, emotional girls figure out what they're wearing.
My little boy cheerfully sang himself to sleep while looking at his new map.
This house is full of the Christmas spirit. Full!
That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown!
..
Each of the children makes each of their family members a handmade gift.
Each of the children is assigned a "giving day" during the month of December where they have the privilege of giving their gifts. As they give their gifts, each person tells us something they love about the "giver". We write down the things that were said and keep them in a special Christmas scrapbook.
It is a very nice tradition. We have really loved it. It has helped my kids catch the joy of giving.
But we have more kids now, and bigger kids with bigger ideas.
6 kids times 6 big ideas equals a very busy December for mom.
I want them to be able to feel the joy of making something beautiful that they imagined themselves, but these are skills that require instruction and somebody sitting there watching and helping.
It was hard this year, and we ran out of days. Instead of having a day for each child, we just did a big gift exchange this evening.
I think I liked it better this way.
It was very exciting for everyone. We worked on projects all day long, and the kids scrambled to get the house clean before dad got home.
Dad helped Brandon finish his gift for Mom while Nathan and Mom made dinner.
Mom and Nathan finished his last project while Brandon quickly ate dinner.
Mom ate quickly so she could help Brandon with his projects while the rest of the family ate.
It was fun to feel the anticipation and excitement in the air.
"How many more minutes do you think you'll be, Mom?" asks Nathan (the family manager) outside the sewing room door.
"Just about ten, I think."
We drew names from a cup to see whose turn it was to wear the Santa hat.
It was wonderful to see the excitement as a name was drawn.
Brandon went first.
He had practiced sewing on the serger as well as the machine to make the blankets--one for Sarajoy and one for me! Sarajoy insisted on snuggling in her new blankie each time she nursed during the evening.
He had noticed that Ruby kept wanting to wear the Santa hats she had made for the boys last year, so he decided to make her one. We made her a skirt to go with it.
He learned to use a knitting loom while making a hat for Nathan.
He filled a backpack with items from Simon's favorite show: Diego. He's a little boy who rescues animals. It had a little flashlight, a rope, a map, and a little laptop that Brandon made from the pop-up lid of a baby wipes package. Simon was enthralled, and couldn't figure out why Daisy wasn't ready to run off and play Diego right then.
For Daisy, he made a Naughty/Nice list so she could practice reading names. He made it very authentic looking by using brown paper bag and decorating it beautifully. ( I was so thankful that he did this one all on his own!)
Dad got a framed drawing of the mountains since Brandon is so good at drawing and Dallin loves to hike.
Simon got to help me make the family's ornaments for the year. I like to give each of the kids an ornament with their picture on it. This year I made wire stars at relief society. I slipped pictures inside while Simon threaded the ribbon through the loop in the top. He was very excited to help me wrap and was surprisingly good at placing the tape in just the right place. He carried the gifts around in a sack for awhile, pretending to be Santa.
Daisy and I dipped pretzels and peanuts in melted chocolate today while the kids were outside in the snow. She was a little disappointed that they came in before we were done so it wasn't a surprise.
Her disappointment disappeared when I suggested she hide her goody bags around the room and make the kids find them. Fun for everyone! The best part is that after everyone had found a bag, Daisy remembered that she had made one for herself, but she couldn't remember where she'd hid all of the bags or which ones had been found. Everybody searched until the last bag was discovered.
Ruby was overjoyed to pull her own name from the mug.
She developed some good computer skills by making some documents with pictures and text--A counting book for Simon with all of his favorite characters, and a coloring book with things that Daisy likes.
Simon even stopped his Diego adventure for several minutes to study his little book.
She caught on quickly to finger-knitting and made Brandon a colorful scarf.
Nathan had mentioned once that he wanted a chef's hat. It turned out a lot more poofy than we expected, but we all had a good laugh about it.
Sarajoy got a wooden-clothespin-baby Jesus doll, wrapped in a blanket. Ruby made a little pillow and we glued raffia on it to look like straw. It fits snugly in a tiny square tin that is just the right size to keep in our Sunday bag. Little Jesus was immediately taken from the tin and snuggled against baby sister's cheek.
Dad got a hankie with a felt heart sewn on and a letter "D".
Mom got a very pretty home made paper ornament with tin foil glued on and then colored with permanent marker. Brandon helped her with that one to keep it a surprise.
Nathan's turn finally came.
He learned crochet at the last minute when he realized Brandon would not be done with the hat loom in time.
It is a hard thing to learn when you are in a hurry, but he toughed it out. By today, he wasn't needing my help at all.
He made Daisy a Santa hat and skirt like Ruby's.
He made Sarajoy a little pillow to match the blanket from Brandon. It is adorable. It only has a couple of layers of batting in it so it won't be too puffy. Just right for a baby. She was thrilled to have her own pillow, and giggled all the way to bed because she was so excited to sleep on it.
Ruby got a fleece scarf that is a nice accessory to her Santa outfit.
And, I really cheated on Simon's gift from Nathan. I had actually made it all by myself the day before with a friend. I thought too late that I should have had one of the kids help me.
It was still fun to let Nathan have the joy of giving it to him. Simon was totally thrilled! It is double sided, and my friend had the great idea to not make it associated with a character. So one side has a big "S" with an arrow behind it so he can be "Super Simon", and the other side is bright lime green with a black lightning bolt on it.
Sarajoy gave loves to everyone, and Daddy passed out treats he had gotten at work.
I think Christmas morning will be a little anticlimactic for me after this.
I almost collapsed when, at 9pm, it dawned on me that the kids have school tomorrow! The boys and Dad had all just left for basketball practice. Somewhere I found the strength to pull 4 lunches together and help two tired, emotional girls figure out what they're wearing.
My little boy cheerfully sang himself to sleep while looking at his new map.
This house is full of the Christmas spirit. Full!
That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown!
..
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Just Bloggin'
We had a really great lesson on Sunday. It was about Sister Beck's 3 categories of prioritization. They are: Essential, Necessary, and Nice to Do.
The past two days, I have given myself permission to set aside specific time to do my Essentials: Scripture study, prayer, and PONDERING. I have had very few times in my life when I have been able to sit down with a notebook in hand while I study.
It is awesome! It is like a daily planning session with the Lord!
I just jot things down as I think of them, and then I know what I am REALLY supposed to do that day.
What a difference!
The best part about it is: I didn't have to drag myself out of bed at the crack of dawn to do it!
Amazing that I have never thought of this before!! I have always thought that the reason it was so impossible was that I was having to trade precious sleep for it.
I've gotten up between 7-8, had breakfast, read scriptures with the kids, chores, played a game with them, and did devotional. They are in charge of their learning for the next little while, and then I lock myself in a room with a desk and read and write.
Seems too good to last, and I'm sure it will change, but for now I am so very
Thankful.
I had an impression a couple of months ago that it might be nice to go and sing to a friend of mine who is suffering from cancer.
It seemed a little silly and embarassing, especially since I don't know her that well and haven't seen her for several years.
The reports I got from people close to her told me that she was overwhelmed with visitors and phone calls and the needs of her 8 children and husband.
So I ignored the impression.
Yesterday during my study session, I had a feeling that I needed to make arrangements to do it or it would be too late.
I still felt embarassed, but I went ahead and called someone close to her to see if she would help me arrange it, and she said she would.
I really did have a sense that time was drawing to a close for this friend, but I thought I at least had a few days.
I was sad to hear that she passed away this afternoon.
Mostly sad for her husband and kids and close friends.
But also sad that I didn't take the opportunity to share my talents when I had the chance. I could have lifted her burden for a few moments, and I didn't do it because I was too embarassed to ask. I could have partaken in a very special experience, and I missed it.
Lesson learned.
Today my kids made up a game that included all siblings.
Later they made an intricate fort in the front room that had a top and bottom level.
Big brother Brandon made a skate board for Simon so he could be "Diego".
Daisy, aka "Alicia" got a skateboard too, and they giggled as they skated around the kitchen.
Ruby read to the 3 little ones while I had my study time.
These are some of the most precious times of parenting. I have such a fullness of joy when I see my children enjoying one another. It is beautiful.
Nathan read out loud to Brandon in an effort to help them both "catch the reading bug."
They worked together creating their checklists so they'd be available for each other at the right times.
Brandon helped Daisy finish her chores in time to help Simon "rescue some animals."
Daisy helped Simon put his pajamas on. He was so tired at bedtime that the big kids all helped him get onto his bed, and they ran down to tell me how he fell fast asleep instantly.
This is one of the best perks about home schooling.
Having time together.
How To Make $80 in and Hour:
I worked for hours on my 2009 photo book in order to have it ready in time to take part of the great holiday specials. It still rang up at 87.00.
I know it is worth it.
It is full of high quality prints in a beautiful book that actually fits on my shelf.
I could possibly have printed off and scrapbooked all of those photos for less money. But I would have had to pay for the prints and the paper and the glue and the sheet protectors and the binder. And I would have to find room on my shelf for a gigantic binder that is hard for the kids to look through without it crashing to the floor. And the time I save is amazing! It is so much easier for me to keep up this way. No big scrapbooking mess, either.
I was very excited to see the little white package on my doorstep as I drove off for Activity Days today.
When I came home, I wondered if I should wait until Christmas to look at it......No, I just couldn't wait.
As soon as dinner was over, and I knew I could get somewhere safely away from food, I opened the package.
Oh, no.
The cutout on the front cover of the book was completely off-centered.
It made the photo behind it that was supposed to peek through look completely cut-off.
This was not something I could just brush off. I had paid nearly $90 for this book, and it needed to be done right!
I found the customer service number.
"We are experiencing high call volumes right now. You may have to wait 25 minutes or more."
Seriously?
I put the head set on and started looking through the book. The rest of it was beautiful, though I spelled Japan like Japah on one page.
We did family prayers and read our Christmas story and had our Christmas song.
I checked email and took care of some other business.
An hour later when I finally got to explain my problem, the service rep said, "We will re-submit your order and you will only be responsible for shipping."
I thought he must mean they wanted me to ship it back at my expense. I had him clarify. I still couldn't beleive it.
"So could you please tell me what the new total will be?"
"$6.99"
That off-centered cover is not looking so bad....
I might even be able to print off a picture and tape it behind the window so it looks better.
Amazing how bad things can turn out pretty good after all.
And one last thing:
Yesterday we started reading Christmas-related verses for our scripture study. I noticed that the list I had gotten from an email by another home schooler didn't have any of the Book of Mormon references on it. I made a mental note to look up Samuel's prophecy and other such verses.
When it came time to sit down and do my own study, I thought, "It would be really fun to get into some of those Christmas stories a little deeper myself. I love all things Christmas. After I read my regular Book of Mormon chapter, I will look up Samuel's prophecy."
So I opened my scriptures to the page where I had left off the morning before. My eyes were immediately drawn to the words in the chapter heading for the chapter I was due to read right then.
It was Samuel's prophecy! Isn't that amazing! A little embarassing that I didn't know it was coming, but a very fun Christmas surprise!
...
The past two days, I have given myself permission to set aside specific time to do my Essentials: Scripture study, prayer, and PONDERING. I have had very few times in my life when I have been able to sit down with a notebook in hand while I study.
It is awesome! It is like a daily planning session with the Lord!
I just jot things down as I think of them, and then I know what I am REALLY supposed to do that day.
What a difference!
The best part about it is: I didn't have to drag myself out of bed at the crack of dawn to do it!
Amazing that I have never thought of this before!! I have always thought that the reason it was so impossible was that I was having to trade precious sleep for it.
I've gotten up between 7-8, had breakfast, read scriptures with the kids, chores, played a game with them, and did devotional. They are in charge of their learning for the next little while, and then I lock myself in a room with a desk and read and write.
Seems too good to last, and I'm sure it will change, but for now I am so very
Thankful.
I had an impression a couple of months ago that it might be nice to go and sing to a friend of mine who is suffering from cancer.
It seemed a little silly and embarassing, especially since I don't know her that well and haven't seen her for several years.
The reports I got from people close to her told me that she was overwhelmed with visitors and phone calls and the needs of her 8 children and husband.
So I ignored the impression.
Yesterday during my study session, I had a feeling that I needed to make arrangements to do it or it would be too late.
I still felt embarassed, but I went ahead and called someone close to her to see if she would help me arrange it, and she said she would.
I really did have a sense that time was drawing to a close for this friend, but I thought I at least had a few days.
I was sad to hear that she passed away this afternoon.
Mostly sad for her husband and kids and close friends.
But also sad that I didn't take the opportunity to share my talents when I had the chance. I could have lifted her burden for a few moments, and I didn't do it because I was too embarassed to ask. I could have partaken in a very special experience, and I missed it.
Lesson learned.
Today my kids made up a game that included all siblings.
Later they made an intricate fort in the front room that had a top and bottom level.
Big brother Brandon made a skate board for Simon so he could be "Diego".
Daisy, aka "Alicia" got a skateboard too, and they giggled as they skated around the kitchen.
Ruby read to the 3 little ones while I had my study time.
These are some of the most precious times of parenting. I have such a fullness of joy when I see my children enjoying one another. It is beautiful.
Nathan read out loud to Brandon in an effort to help them both "catch the reading bug."
They worked together creating their checklists so they'd be available for each other at the right times.
Brandon helped Daisy finish her chores in time to help Simon "rescue some animals."
Daisy helped Simon put his pajamas on. He was so tired at bedtime that the big kids all helped him get onto his bed, and they ran down to tell me how he fell fast asleep instantly.
This is one of the best perks about home schooling.
Having time together.
How To Make $80 in and Hour:
I worked for hours on my 2009 photo book in order to have it ready in time to take part of the great holiday specials. It still rang up at 87.00.
I know it is worth it.
It is full of high quality prints in a beautiful book that actually fits on my shelf.
I could possibly have printed off and scrapbooked all of those photos for less money. But I would have had to pay for the prints and the paper and the glue and the sheet protectors and the binder. And I would have to find room on my shelf for a gigantic binder that is hard for the kids to look through without it crashing to the floor. And the time I save is amazing! It is so much easier for me to keep up this way. No big scrapbooking mess, either.
I was very excited to see the little white package on my doorstep as I drove off for Activity Days today.
When I came home, I wondered if I should wait until Christmas to look at it......No, I just couldn't wait.
As soon as dinner was over, and I knew I could get somewhere safely away from food, I opened the package.
Oh, no.
The cutout on the front cover of the book was completely off-centered.
It made the photo behind it that was supposed to peek through look completely cut-off.
This was not something I could just brush off. I had paid nearly $90 for this book, and it needed to be done right!
I found the customer service number.
"We are experiencing high call volumes right now. You may have to wait 25 minutes or more."
Seriously?
I put the head set on and started looking through the book. The rest of it was beautiful, though I spelled Japan like Japah on one page.
We did family prayers and read our Christmas story and had our Christmas song.
I checked email and took care of some other business.
An hour later when I finally got to explain my problem, the service rep said, "We will re-submit your order and you will only be responsible for shipping."
I thought he must mean they wanted me to ship it back at my expense. I had him clarify. I still couldn't beleive it.
"So could you please tell me what the new total will be?"
"$6.99"
That off-centered cover is not looking so bad....
I might even be able to print off a picture and tape it behind the window so it looks better.
Amazing how bad things can turn out pretty good after all.
And one last thing:
Yesterday we started reading Christmas-related verses for our scripture study. I noticed that the list I had gotten from an email by another home schooler didn't have any of the Book of Mormon references on it. I made a mental note to look up Samuel's prophecy and other such verses.
When it came time to sit down and do my own study, I thought, "It would be really fun to get into some of those Christmas stories a little deeper myself. I love all things Christmas. After I read my regular Book of Mormon chapter, I will look up Samuel's prophecy."
So I opened my scriptures to the page where I had left off the morning before. My eyes were immediately drawn to the words in the chapter heading for the chapter I was due to read right then.
It was Samuel's prophecy! Isn't that amazing! A little embarassing that I didn't know it was coming, but a very fun Christmas surprise!
...
Monday, November 29, 2010
Choosing Battles
So often home schooling feels like swimming upstream.
The grass in the public schoolyard often looks oh, so green.
It seems like every day there are at least a few reasons to let "schooling" slip by the wayside. I know that there are very important things that my children are learning by spending their days with me, but I know they also need some consistent practice in the academic areas.
Some days, things go really smoothly.
Other days feel like a struggle all day long.
For so long, our family has been in "survival mode". I feel like I can't keep using it as an excuse.
And my kids WANT to learn.
But there are SO many distractions.
Daisy got sick to her stomach last night.
Ruby's outfit wasn't quite right this morning.
That made scriptures late.
Sarajoy is still doing the several runny diapers a day thing.
Simon needs a buddy, especially with Daisy down.
She woke with a fever and sore throat. Oh NO!
We somehow struggled through math and reading and a little writing before I had to leave for the Dr.
I was tired.
All the kids were tired.
I told them to rest while I was away.
I don't think the toddlers let them rest much.
I decided to get some things at the health food store to maybe hopefully prevent the rest of us from getting strep. And some stuff for Sarajoy's tummy.
And we had to get the antibiotics.
We needed groceries, too.
Two hours later, I got home. Starving.
So while I get welcomed by the toddlers who both want to be held and fed, I try to scrape together a sandwich, return phone calls, and get the kids back to work on their school and chores.
A certain person argued with me from the moment she awoke. She had a reason against every single thing I asked her to do.
It was exhausting.
I finally had to send her to bed.
She was there for hours, and I missed her. I was sad about her choices.
I used the Thanksgiving turkey broth to make some stew and made some rolls while talking to my sister on the phone and guiding the boys through the last of their school and chores.
I managed not to fall asleep at the dinner table, or while doing dishes with the kids, or while doing family night, or while watching Polar Express.
But now I am too tired to even think about tomorrow.
I don't feel sad or depressed.
Just a little overwhelmed and discouraged. Drained.
I want so many good things for my family, and I work so hard for them.
When it comes down to it, it is worth it.
It is worth it.
It is worth it.
So I'll fight again tomorrow.
...
The grass in the public schoolyard often looks oh, so green.
It seems like every day there are at least a few reasons to let "schooling" slip by the wayside. I know that there are very important things that my children are learning by spending their days with me, but I know they also need some consistent practice in the academic areas.
Some days, things go really smoothly.
Other days feel like a struggle all day long.
For so long, our family has been in "survival mode". I feel like I can't keep using it as an excuse.
And my kids WANT to learn.
But there are SO many distractions.
Daisy got sick to her stomach last night.
Ruby's outfit wasn't quite right this morning.
That made scriptures late.
Sarajoy is still doing the several runny diapers a day thing.
Simon needs a buddy, especially with Daisy down.
She woke with a fever and sore throat. Oh NO!
We somehow struggled through math and reading and a little writing before I had to leave for the Dr.
I was tired.
All the kids were tired.
I told them to rest while I was away.
I don't think the toddlers let them rest much.
I decided to get some things at the health food store to maybe hopefully prevent the rest of us from getting strep. And some stuff for Sarajoy's tummy.
And we had to get the antibiotics.
We needed groceries, too.
Two hours later, I got home. Starving.
So while I get welcomed by the toddlers who both want to be held and fed, I try to scrape together a sandwich, return phone calls, and get the kids back to work on their school and chores.
A certain person argued with me from the moment she awoke. She had a reason against every single thing I asked her to do.
It was exhausting.
I finally had to send her to bed.
She was there for hours, and I missed her. I was sad about her choices.
I used the Thanksgiving turkey broth to make some stew and made some rolls while talking to my sister on the phone and guiding the boys through the last of their school and chores.
I managed not to fall asleep at the dinner table, or while doing dishes with the kids, or while doing family night, or while watching Polar Express.
But now I am too tired to even think about tomorrow.
I don't feel sad or depressed.
Just a little overwhelmed and discouraged. Drained.
I want so many good things for my family, and I work so hard for them.
When it comes down to it, it is worth it.
It is worth it.
It is worth it.
So I'll fight again tomorrow.
...
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Gratitude
There is something absolutely nourishing about sitting in a dark room alone with a lit Christmas tree.
I have had a few quiet moments tonight to reflect on the past week.
I realize that few weeks in my life have been as full and joyful as this one.
One week ago, we learned of a crisis in Dallin's family. I had the opportunity in person to bear testimony of Christ to my in-laws. My love and understanding for them grew. My love and compassion for my siblngs in-law grew. I can already see how this crisis will bring this family closer together.
It made me appreciate in a way that I never have the fact that there IS one Man who lived on this earth who was not a disappointment.
I spent most of Monday on the phone with Dallin's family members. I did not mind this at all, except that I was nervous about getting ready for Thanksgiving. I was expecting the first of a large number of guests to arrive Tuesday night.
My friend Becky saved the day!
On Tuesday, my kids and I spent all morning cleaning the kitchen and making arrangements for an extra table. Becky showed up just as we were starting to make ahead some of the Thanksgiving dinner items. Thanks to her, we got 2 jello salads started, the potatoes peeled and cut up and covered in water, the cornbread baked and breadcrumbs made for the stuffing, and an apple crisp made. Meanwhile, her kids were helping clean my house!
And I got to do it while visiting with a friend.
I found a good deal on some carpet remnants that transformed our basement into a usable play area. The store was willing to pick them out for me and deliver them that day! It was so fun to surprise Dallin when he got home.
Our guests were delayed due to a big blizzard, so we rewarded the kids for their hard work by letting them set up our small Christmas tree in the family room. We bought some colorful lights and colorful shatterproof ornaments. Why has it taken so long for these to be invented? How many years have we expected kids to resist shiny balls hanging from a tree? It has been wonderful to just let my toddlers hold them and move them around on the tree.
Wednesday morning, my sister and her 6 kids arrived. They had gotten up at 5:30am to make up for lost time from the blizzard. We invited a friend we grew up with to come over with her 7 kids and have lunch and visit. We had such a nice time, and all the kids played pretty well together. Just when Dallin came in with the pizza, my brother Chris with his wife, 2 kids, and 2 puppies arrived. Minutes after our friend took her kids home, Mom and sister in -law Renee with her 2 kids got here from Vegas where they had spent a few days with my sister Erin's family.
There were 5 of us women working in the kitchen. Some of us were preparing chicken noodle soup for dinner. One of us was making pies for Thanksgiving. A couple of us were sauteeing vegetables for the stuffing. Three one-year olds, three three-year olds and a four year old were in and out and underfoot.
But nobody was feeling overwhelmed. It didn't seem chaotic. Even when all of the big kids came storming in for soup it seemed to be pretty manageable.
Have I mentioned how much I love my kitchen? It was made for days like this, and I am so thankful.
Not long after dinner, my Dad and my brother Steve (Renee's husband) and their puppy got here from Idaho.
9 adults, 16 kids, and 3 puppies.
We all fit pretty comfortably, and seemed to get along just fine. Having my family in my home was pure bliss for me!
My cousin's daughter Lauren joined us for the dinner the next day. We forgot the rolls, and the yams weren't done in time, but nobody seemed to care.
After dinner, I put my baby to bed and crawled into my own for a post-Thanksgiving siesta.
It was wonderful to drift in and out of sleep with the din of children running and laughing and someone playing the piano and puppies yelping in the background.
The big kids walked down to the golf course to go sledding. They also sledded down the gravel piles in the backyard. They took the toddlers for sleigh rides around the yard. They played games with Uncle Chris in the court. The moms stayed up and played dominoes while the dads played raquetball.
Friday my mom helped me work on a Christmas project. I wish I could post pictures, but I'll make myself wait so I don't divulge any secrets too soon. I love to work beside my mom. Sometimes we don't even say much, but I just love being with her.
Saturday morning came all too soon. I was really sad to see everyone go. Thankfully, we had Christmas to put up. We spent the morning cleaning the house and taking down fall decorations. We read our Thankful Chain that we have been working on for 7 years and put it away for next year.
Then we got out the big Christmas Tree and worked on it for a couple of hours. Dallin and I headed out for a date to return library books, get a tree skirt, and do a little Christmas shopping.
4 haircuts and 6 baths later I sit quietly by the lit Christmas tree and wonder at it.
I wonder why some people don't like Christmas. I LOVE it. All the parts of it.
When I look at the Christmas tree, I can't help but think of very happy things.
The memories of this week will join all of the other happy times that mean Christmas to me.
My heart is full of Thanks.
...
I have had a few quiet moments tonight to reflect on the past week.
I realize that few weeks in my life have been as full and joyful as this one.
One week ago, we learned of a crisis in Dallin's family. I had the opportunity in person to bear testimony of Christ to my in-laws. My love and understanding for them grew. My love and compassion for my siblngs in-law grew. I can already see how this crisis will bring this family closer together.
It made me appreciate in a way that I never have the fact that there IS one Man who lived on this earth who was not a disappointment.
I spent most of Monday on the phone with Dallin's family members. I did not mind this at all, except that I was nervous about getting ready for Thanksgiving. I was expecting the first of a large number of guests to arrive Tuesday night.
My friend Becky saved the day!
On Tuesday, my kids and I spent all morning cleaning the kitchen and making arrangements for an extra table. Becky showed up just as we were starting to make ahead some of the Thanksgiving dinner items. Thanks to her, we got 2 jello salads started, the potatoes peeled and cut up and covered in water, the cornbread baked and breadcrumbs made for the stuffing, and an apple crisp made. Meanwhile, her kids were helping clean my house!
And I got to do it while visiting with a friend.
I found a good deal on some carpet remnants that transformed our basement into a usable play area. The store was willing to pick them out for me and deliver them that day! It was so fun to surprise Dallin when he got home.
Our guests were delayed due to a big blizzard, so we rewarded the kids for their hard work by letting them set up our small Christmas tree in the family room. We bought some colorful lights and colorful shatterproof ornaments. Why has it taken so long for these to be invented? How many years have we expected kids to resist shiny balls hanging from a tree? It has been wonderful to just let my toddlers hold them and move them around on the tree.
Wednesday morning, my sister and her 6 kids arrived. They had gotten up at 5:30am to make up for lost time from the blizzard. We invited a friend we grew up with to come over with her 7 kids and have lunch and visit. We had such a nice time, and all the kids played pretty well together. Just when Dallin came in with the pizza, my brother Chris with his wife, 2 kids, and 2 puppies arrived. Minutes after our friend took her kids home, Mom and sister in -law Renee with her 2 kids got here from Vegas where they had spent a few days with my sister Erin's family.
There were 5 of us women working in the kitchen. Some of us were preparing chicken noodle soup for dinner. One of us was making pies for Thanksgiving. A couple of us were sauteeing vegetables for the stuffing. Three one-year olds, three three-year olds and a four year old were in and out and underfoot.
But nobody was feeling overwhelmed. It didn't seem chaotic. Even when all of the big kids came storming in for soup it seemed to be pretty manageable.
Have I mentioned how much I love my kitchen? It was made for days like this, and I am so thankful.
Not long after dinner, my Dad and my brother Steve (Renee's husband) and their puppy got here from Idaho.
9 adults, 16 kids, and 3 puppies.
We all fit pretty comfortably, and seemed to get along just fine. Having my family in my home was pure bliss for me!
My cousin's daughter Lauren joined us for the dinner the next day. We forgot the rolls, and the yams weren't done in time, but nobody seemed to care.
After dinner, I put my baby to bed and crawled into my own for a post-Thanksgiving siesta.
It was wonderful to drift in and out of sleep with the din of children running and laughing and someone playing the piano and puppies yelping in the background.
The big kids walked down to the golf course to go sledding. They also sledded down the gravel piles in the backyard. They took the toddlers for sleigh rides around the yard. They played games with Uncle Chris in the court. The moms stayed up and played dominoes while the dads played raquetball.
Friday my mom helped me work on a Christmas project. I wish I could post pictures, but I'll make myself wait so I don't divulge any secrets too soon. I love to work beside my mom. Sometimes we don't even say much, but I just love being with her.
Saturday morning came all too soon. I was really sad to see everyone go. Thankfully, we had Christmas to put up. We spent the morning cleaning the house and taking down fall decorations. We read our Thankful Chain that we have been working on for 7 years and put it away for next year.
Then we got out the big Christmas Tree and worked on it for a couple of hours. Dallin and I headed out for a date to return library books, get a tree skirt, and do a little Christmas shopping.
4 haircuts and 6 baths later I sit quietly by the lit Christmas tree and wonder at it.
I wonder why some people don't like Christmas. I LOVE it. All the parts of it.
When I look at the Christmas tree, I can't help but think of very happy things.
The memories of this week will join all of the other happy times that mean Christmas to me.
My heart is full of Thanks.
...
Thursday, November 18, 2010
It is past my bedtime
But, I just feel like writing.
I just read that my friend who was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer this summer is doing better. Like they can't find any more cancer better. She will still get a double masectomy and be taking medication, but she is not going to die any time soon.
It is happy news. I already lost a young friend to cancer this year. A mommy with two little kids. I have another friend--a mommy to 8 kids who is suffering terribly from cancer. We are exerting our faith in her behalf.
So it is nice to hear some good news.
My schedule is coming along. I've stretched out what I was trying to accomplish in a day over a week. That's more like it! We're having lots of fun.
I still fight feelings of guilt and concern that I'm not accomplishing enough, but I usually win those fights.
My experiment upon the word has led me to believe that you must need to not be waking 3 times a night in order to be invigorated the next day. Getting up at 6am is on again off again. I got a protein drink mix today to see if that helps. It helped me during my pregnancies.
I think my family has a sensitivity to nitrous oxide. Every time we go to the dentist, we all leave feeling lightheaded, head-achy, tired, and nauseated. Even the people who only sit in the waiting room. Do you think it is because of the nitrous oxide in the air? Dentists offices always have that gag-me kind of bubblegum smell when you walk in. I'm a little concerned because my 10 year old who only sat in the waiting room was not feeling well enough for gymnastics or watching a movie with the family. The last time we were there, just for cleanings, he came home and took a nap. My daughter who did get the work done, collapsed in my arms sobbing when she was done. Very Sad.
Just writing about it is making me feel drowsy...
The movie we watched was How To Train Your Dragon.
I loved it.
I am way excited about the Holiday season, especially because I will be hosting Thanksgiving for the first time ever.
Way excited about the company.
Totally terrified by the cooking.
Wish me luck.
...
I just read that my friend who was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer this summer is doing better. Like they can't find any more cancer better. She will still get a double masectomy and be taking medication, but she is not going to die any time soon.
It is happy news. I already lost a young friend to cancer this year. A mommy with two little kids. I have another friend--a mommy to 8 kids who is suffering terribly from cancer. We are exerting our faith in her behalf.
So it is nice to hear some good news.
My schedule is coming along. I've stretched out what I was trying to accomplish in a day over a week. That's more like it! We're having lots of fun.
I still fight feelings of guilt and concern that I'm not accomplishing enough, but I usually win those fights.
My experiment upon the word has led me to believe that you must need to not be waking 3 times a night in order to be invigorated the next day. Getting up at 6am is on again off again. I got a protein drink mix today to see if that helps. It helped me during my pregnancies.
I think my family has a sensitivity to nitrous oxide. Every time we go to the dentist, we all leave feeling lightheaded, head-achy, tired, and nauseated. Even the people who only sit in the waiting room. Do you think it is because of the nitrous oxide in the air? Dentists offices always have that gag-me kind of bubblegum smell when you walk in. I'm a little concerned because my 10 year old who only sat in the waiting room was not feeling well enough for gymnastics or watching a movie with the family. The last time we were there, just for cleanings, he came home and took a nap. My daughter who did get the work done, collapsed in my arms sobbing when she was done. Very Sad.
Just writing about it is making me feel drowsy...
The movie we watched was How To Train Your Dragon.
I loved it.
I am way excited about the Holiday season, especially because I will be hosting Thanksgiving for the first time ever.
Way excited about the company.
Totally terrified by the cooking.
Wish me luck.
...
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Three
How did my little buddy get so big?
Our little Si-guy is 3 now, and doesn't like to be called Si-guy.
He is the most enthusiastic little fella I know. He lives in extremes. All the way happy or all the way sad.
He gives us lots of reasons to smile.
He woke up to yummy breakfast and bright balloons.
Somehow the kids' dental appointments fell on Simon's birthday.After that, we picked up a Pizza and stopped at Daddy's office for a birthday hug.
We spent some time at the park and went to the library.
When we got home, we walked over to the neighbors' pumkin display and everybody picked a pumkin to buy.
We had dinner, and I started working on his cake request: A Circle.
Gotta Love That! I added a smiley face for fun, and he loved it!
He opened his presents: A bathtub shaving kit so he can shave like Dad. A Cars Leap Pad book, and an Indian knife with a leather sheath.
He was enthralled!
We love you, buddy!
Happy Birthday, Simon!
Our little Si-guy is 3 now, and doesn't like to be called Si-guy.
He is the most enthusiastic little fella I know. He lives in extremes. All the way happy or all the way sad.
He gives us lots of reasons to smile.
He woke up to yummy breakfast and bright balloons.
Somehow the kids' dental appointments fell on Simon's birthday.After that, we picked up a Pizza and stopped at Daddy's office for a birthday hug.
We spent some time at the park and went to the library.
When we got home, we walked over to the neighbors' pumkin display and everybody picked a pumkin to buy.
We had dinner, and I started working on his cake request: A Circle.
Gotta Love That! I added a smiley face for fun, and he loved it!
He opened his presents: A bathtub shaving kit so he can shave like Dad. A Cars Leap Pad book, and an Indian knife with a leather sheath.
He was enthralled!
We love you, buddy!
Happy Birthday, Simon!
Home School Day at the Corn Maze
The big Corn Maze at Thanksgiving Point is done by Cornbelly's. Every year, they have a day that home schoolers can get in for a great rate. I've been in charge of this field trip several times, and had a huge crowd there. This year most of our home school group went to a more local corn maze, so I didn't have to make a big deal of it. I went with my sister Kim, who is home schooling her kindergartener. She took her other kids out of school to come as well. My friend Darlene called me about it the night before, so she joined in the fun with us.
In addition to the corn maze, they have bouncing pillows, giant haystack slides, smaller structures for little ones to climb on, and giant boxes filled with corn to play in like a sand box. We always spend a whole day there, and we always have a wonderful time.
In addition to the corn maze, they have bouncing pillows, giant haystack slides, smaller structures for little ones to climb on, and giant boxes filled with corn to play in like a sand box. We always spend a whole day there, and we always have a wonderful time.
Six
I am so glad that at six she is still so innocent and sweet.
She is a Tuesday's child--fair of face. And her middle name, Linda, means beauty.
She was a beautiful baby and is a beautiful girl.
She wanted German pancakes for breakfast.
For lunch, we had a picnic at the corn maze.
For dinner, she couldn't decide between lasagne and hawaiian haystacks.
She settled on hawaiian haystacks.
The night before, I stayed up setting up her play kitchen. We unveiled it in the morning when she woke up. Daddy had balloons waiting for her that he had hidden in his car.
We spent the day at the corn maze, and picked up donuts on the way home for her cake.
After dinner, she got to open her present: a wooden cookie baking set. Very cute!
We love our Beauty-Daise and are thankful for all of the happiness she brings to our home.
Happy Birthday, Daisy!
She is a Tuesday's child--fair of face. And her middle name, Linda, means beauty.
She was a beautiful baby and is a beautiful girl.
She wanted German pancakes for breakfast.
For lunch, we had a picnic at the corn maze.
For dinner, she couldn't decide between lasagne and hawaiian haystacks.
She settled on hawaiian haystacks.
The night before, I stayed up setting up her play kitchen. We unveiled it in the morning when she woke up. Daddy had balloons waiting for her that he had hidden in his car.
We spent the day at the corn maze, and picked up donuts on the way home for her cake.
After dinner, she got to open her present: a wooden cookie baking set. Very cute!
We love our Beauty-Daise and are thankful for all of the happiness she brings to our home.
Happy Birthday, Daisy!
Just Pictures of the Honey
I thought it was so funny that she had her little foot resting on her high chair tray, but by the time I got the camera ready, she was mad and ready to get out.
Sarajoy enjoys a sink-bath.
Sarajoy enjoys a sink-bath.
First Pigtails
September 26, 2010
I came home from a meeting one Sunday to find Ruby attempting pigtails in our little baby's hair. I helped her finish getting them in and we sat back and oohed and aaahed at how grown up they make her look!
I came home from a meeting one Sunday to find Ruby attempting pigtails in our little baby's hair. I helped her finish getting them in and we sat back and oohed and aaahed at how grown up they make her look!
Six little Indians
Our first Unit of American History taught us lots about the Native American Indians.
We made Indian clothes, miniature tee-pees, and Indian village dioramas.
We made Indian clothes, miniature tee-pees, and Indian village dioramas.
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