"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." Wise words, Ferris Bueller. Wise indeed.
I don't know how this year is getting by so fast. I swear it was just April yet we're already a third of the way through May. Time really does fly when you're having fun.
We got Ava registered for Kindergarten last week. Kindergarten..as in school. My Squeakers is going to leave the nest and go to big kid school. Oh just cue the tears. To be redundant, where did the time go? She was just an adorable little baby yesterday. I would almost swear to it, but the 4 ft tall, 51 lb kid standing nearby begs to differ.
I'm going to promise myself to get an extra kiss and cuddle from the girls each day. Soon they will be too big and too busy for me...lol but I'm not even going to entertain those thoughts now! No, for now I'm going to enjoy every moment while the time is just right.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Close Call
It may be redundant, but I love storms. I freaking love them. There's a catch. Yep, there's always a catch. I don't love storms that carry tornadoes heading straight for us.
Last night when I tucked the girls in I had to promise to wake them if there was a tornado warning. LOL like I was going to take shelter and leave them to fend for themselves. I was glued to the weather after that. The storm raged on all around us and at one point there were 5 warnings in the counties to the north, south, and west of us. It was inevitable that we were going to get slammed. There was a tornado on the ground about 15 miles NE of us that was heading our way. The weather man started his take shelter if you're in this area speech, but I didn't stick around to hear it as I got all the stuff I needed ready. I called my younger sister and let her know since it was only 8 or 9 minutes out for her. Then I woke Michael up and got the girls into their safety zone. Michael grumbled about having to get up, but I told him that this was a bad system and we weren't taking any chances. He stepped outside with the dogs so they could go before the storm hit. While he was out there he said the pressure in the air was intense. It was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Then it hit. Hard. Mother Nature unleashed her fury on us and I have to admit that we were both truly scared. This went on for about seven or eight minutes and then the worst had passed.
We made it through with just our backyard swing blown over, lots of leaves, and small limbs down. There were trees and power lines knocked over throughout town and some damage to buildings, but we were all fortunate. They said they can't confirm if it was a tornado until the weather science investigators come through. I don't care what it was, I'm just thankful we're all safe and sound.
Last night when I tucked the girls in I had to promise to wake them if there was a tornado warning. LOL like I was going to take shelter and leave them to fend for themselves. I was glued to the weather after that. The storm raged on all around us and at one point there were 5 warnings in the counties to the north, south, and west of us. It was inevitable that we were going to get slammed. There was a tornado on the ground about 15 miles NE of us that was heading our way. The weather man started his take shelter if you're in this area speech, but I didn't stick around to hear it as I got all the stuff I needed ready. I called my younger sister and let her know since it was only 8 or 9 minutes out for her. Then I woke Michael up and got the girls into their safety zone. Michael grumbled about having to get up, but I told him that this was a bad system and we weren't taking any chances. He stepped outside with the dogs so they could go before the storm hit. While he was out there he said the pressure in the air was intense. It was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Then it hit. Hard. Mother Nature unleashed her fury on us and I have to admit that we were both truly scared. This went on for about seven or eight minutes and then the worst had passed.
We made it through with just our backyard swing blown over, lots of leaves, and small limbs down. There were trees and power lines knocked over throughout town and some damage to buildings, but we were all fortunate. They said they can't confirm if it was a tornado until the weather science investigators come through. I don't care what it was, I'm just thankful we're all safe and sound.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Another year older
And another year wiser? Definitely.
My thirty-first birthday was yesterday. Michael bought me the most gorgeous flowers. The girls all made me sweet cards and we grilled for dinner. I got lots of messages and calls from friends and family. Just a perfect day.
So now I'm officially in my thirties. Some may consider turning thirty already being in your thirties, but I felt like I was on the border. Still not immersed in my new age bracket, teetering between two groups. That's no longer the case. Yep, I'm a thirty-something. Growing older isn't a scary or negative thing to me. I remember when my older sister, Kim, was thirty-one. I was twenty at the time and already a married woman who was trying to have a baby. Seeing her married for years with three children of her own very much appealed to me. As much as I welcome it, it's still hard to believe time has gone so quickly.
There are perks to growing older. It's said that with age comes wisdom and I so agree. I know much more than I did ten or even five years ago. I'm more comfortable with myself and who I am as a person and it's just a nice place to be. Hopefully there will be many more birthdays for me and many more years to continue to learn and grow.
My thirty-first birthday was yesterday. Michael bought me the most gorgeous flowers. The girls all made me sweet cards and we grilled for dinner. I got lots of messages and calls from friends and family. Just a perfect day.
So now I'm officially in my thirties. Some may consider turning thirty already being in your thirties, but I felt like I was on the border. Still not immersed in my new age bracket, teetering between two groups. That's no longer the case. Yep, I'm a thirty-something. Growing older isn't a scary or negative thing to me. I remember when my older sister, Kim, was thirty-one. I was twenty at the time and already a married woman who was trying to have a baby. Seeing her married for years with three children of her own very much appealed to me. As much as I welcome it, it's still hard to believe time has gone so quickly.
There are perks to growing older. It's said that with age comes wisdom and I so agree. I know much more than I did ten or even five years ago. I'm more comfortable with myself and who I am as a person and it's just a nice place to be. Hopefully there will be many more birthdays for me and many more years to continue to learn and grow.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Life ain't easy
Why does life have to be so hard sometimes? I mean really. I see so many people struggling to make ends meet, to overcome illness, to have or grow a family, and the list goes on. It's hard to see pain and suffering, especially when it's people you care about.
Then you see some people who have it all. Or maybe it just looks that way. Maybe they're fighting for something too. I think hardships are universal and everyone has their story. Some just aren't as forthcoming with it.
How do you handle these things? How do you keep your head up and keep trucking along? I know I use my faith as my way of getting through those times. "If God brings us to it, He will see us through it." Amen. All we can do is keep the faith. Pray and know that these things will come to pass.
It's difficult. It's hard to release that control, to let go and let God if you will. My best friend and I used to sing a song in church that echoed this sentiment. When I Let it Go by Sierra. Good song, even better message.
So yes, it's true that life ain't easy, but I truly do believe that God will never give us more than we can handle. I guess some of us are even stronger than we ever would have imagined. That strength will continue to see us all through the trying times and will bring us out even better in the end. I have faith in that.
Then you see some people who have it all. Or maybe it just looks that way. Maybe they're fighting for something too. I think hardships are universal and everyone has their story. Some just aren't as forthcoming with it.
How do you handle these things? How do you keep your head up and keep trucking along? I know I use my faith as my way of getting through those times. "If God brings us to it, He will see us through it." Amen. All we can do is keep the faith. Pray and know that these things will come to pass.
It's difficult. It's hard to release that control, to let go and let God if you will. My best friend and I used to sing a song in church that echoed this sentiment. When I Let it Go by Sierra. Good song, even better message.
So yes, it's true that life ain't easy, but I truly do believe that God will never give us more than we can handle. I guess some of us are even stronger than we ever would have imagined. That strength will continue to see us all through the trying times and will bring us out even better in the end. I have faith in that.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Boss lady
I like to be the boss.
I've known this for a long time. It has been my personality since I was a little kid. I used to start clubs left and right, hold meetings, set up businesses, and basically set the itinerary for all the kids in the neighborhood. They all knew what they were getting into, but that's the way they liked it. And I will say this for myself, we definitely didn't have a single moment of boredom in our childhood.
Fast forward to today and you'll see that I'm still that way to an extent. If I want something done then I'm the one who makes the plans. This doesn't always hold the appeal it used to. Sometimes I find that I'd like to be the one that sits back and says, ok that sounds like a good plan. I'm in, you set everything up. That would be pretty sweet.
Or so I think. Would I really be able to turn over control? Could I hand over my plan making, manager style ways and let someone else step up? I've tried before, but found that things don't get done. If I'm not bossing(in the nicest way possible lol) then it's not happening.
Maybe that's the way it will always be. Furthermore maybe that's the way I want it to be. It's who I am and at thirty that's not likely to change. Really this skill set if you will has gotten even sharper with having four children to guide through life so it only makes sense to continue on this path, right?
Guess Springsteen isn't the only Boss.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Mob Mentality
Hide your children! Light some torches and storm the castle!
It amazes me how people can be swept up into a frenzy so easily. They start siding with one another and soon you have a mob of angry, confused people feeding off of each other's emotions. Scary. A little matter becomes a big matter and people are ready to throw down. This is the time when people should reevaluate the situation before reacting, but by this point they're too swept up for that. The mob strikes out and doesn't stop to think about the person(people) they may be hurting.
I witnessed something like this recently. It all started out simple enough, but the next thing you know names were being called, angry messages sent, and the recipient crying for days. That person never intended any harm and it breaks my heart to think of everyone lashing out over something so silly. Where's the compassion, people?
Sigh.
It's Friday though and I'm in a good mood so let's move on, because I can't hate on a mob in general..and I won't comment on certain familia mobs. ;) Instead I'll say that Flash mobs are pretty nifty. That's a mob I could get into. Hundreds of people simultaneously breaking into song or dance in the middle of an otherwise boring day? Winning!
...and I'll leave you with my favorite flash mob video
:)
It amazes me how people can be swept up into a frenzy so easily. They start siding with one another and soon you have a mob of angry, confused people feeding off of each other's emotions. Scary. A little matter becomes a big matter and people are ready to throw down. This is the time when people should reevaluate the situation before reacting, but by this point they're too swept up for that. The mob strikes out and doesn't stop to think about the person(people) they may be hurting.
I witnessed something like this recently. It all started out simple enough, but the next thing you know names were being called, angry messages sent, and the recipient crying for days. That person never intended any harm and it breaks my heart to think of everyone lashing out over something so silly. Where's the compassion, people?
Sigh.
It's Friday though and I'm in a good mood so let's move on, because I can't hate on a mob in general..and I won't comment on certain familia mobs. ;) Instead I'll say that Flash mobs are pretty nifty. That's a mob I could get into. Hundreds of people simultaneously breaking into song or dance in the middle of an otherwise boring day? Winning!
...and I'll leave you with my favorite flash mob video
:)
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Playing catch up
Here I go again. I can't seem to get in a good blogging groove, but I'm sure going to try.
Can't believe it's already April. 2011 is proving to be as quick of a year as the last. March was a wonderful month for us. Ella turned three,had a great party, and we took our first real family vacation...and what a vacation that was! I only wish we could have stayed another week. It was truly a blast and the girls were on cloud 9 most of the time. Dining with princesses, riding in tea cups, and watching fireworks every night. A girl can get used to that kind of life! Even more exciting, we're already making plans to go back. :)
This month is my nephew's birthday, my birthday, Michael's and my dating anniversary, and Easter. It's sure to be a happy and full month. I wish you all a happy month as well!
Can't believe it's already April. 2011 is proving to be as quick of a year as the last. March was a wonderful month for us. Ella turned three,had a great party, and we took our first real family vacation...and what a vacation that was! I only wish we could have stayed another week. It was truly a blast and the girls were on cloud 9 most of the time. Dining with princesses, riding in tea cups, and watching fireworks every night. A girl can get used to that kind of life! Even more exciting, we're already making plans to go back. :)
This month is my nephew's birthday, my birthday, Michael's and my dating anniversary, and Easter. It's sure to be a happy and full month. I wish you all a happy month as well!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Making a list and checking it twice
We're going on VACATION!!! Large font and all caps are awesome, but don't quite convey this kind of excitement. I can do better.
Now imagine the same sentence, shouted as only Oprah can do, arms thrown in the air. Maybe a fist pump(not of the Jersey Shore variety, but a classy Mrs. Winfrey one) thrown in. I also love the visual of Oprah pointing in turn at Michael, each one of the girls, and I.."and you're getting a vacation, and you, and you!"
Yes! That's close to the excitement in my household at the moment. We're finally taking our first family vacation. :) Long overdue and I'm so ready! With the excitement comes the anxiety. The packing alone is daunting. I've got lists coming out the wazoo at this point. Those lists keep getting revised and rewritten. Can you tell I like to be in control of the situation? Someone's gotta keep a handle on things like making sure everyone has enough socks, sunscreen, snacks. That someone is yours truly. Also on the lists are my worries. Worries of time management, traffic, our two dogs who will be boarded for the first time in their canine lives...and the list goes on. Worry is useless, but my mind won't hear that. I'll be glad when we're buckled in the van and headed on our merry way. The worrying won't stop, but by that point it will be too late to worry about what I did and didn't pack lol! And if all else fails, there are only about 3,000 Walmarts on the way to pick up whatever didn't make it into our luggage. ;)
One thing I know for sure, list or no list, is that we're going to be in for one of the most exciting weeks of our lives!
Now imagine the same sentence, shouted as only Oprah can do, arms thrown in the air. Maybe a fist pump(not of the Jersey Shore variety, but a classy Mrs. Winfrey one) thrown in. I also love the visual of Oprah pointing in turn at Michael, each one of the girls, and I.."and you're getting a vacation, and you, and you!"
Yes! That's close to the excitement in my household at the moment. We're finally taking our first family vacation. :) Long overdue and I'm so ready! With the excitement comes the anxiety. The packing alone is daunting. I've got lists coming out the wazoo at this point. Those lists keep getting revised and rewritten. Can you tell I like to be in control of the situation? Someone's gotta keep a handle on things like making sure everyone has enough socks, sunscreen, snacks. That someone is yours truly. Also on the lists are my worries. Worries of time management, traffic, our two dogs who will be boarded for the first time in their canine lives...and the list goes on. Worry is useless, but my mind won't hear that. I'll be glad when we're buckled in the van and headed on our merry way. The worrying won't stop, but by that point it will be too late to worry about what I did and didn't pack lol! And if all else fails, there are only about 3,000 Walmarts on the way to pick up whatever didn't make it into our luggage. ;)
One thing I know for sure, list or no list, is that we're going to be in for one of the most exciting weeks of our lives!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Happy Birthday, Ella!!!
On March 11th, 2008 our baby Ella Sophia came into this world at 11:55am via c-section. She weighed 8lbs, 15.4 ozs and was 21 inches of pure sweetness. We were so ecstatic to welcome her into our fold and were counting our blessings as our family grew from five to six in number.
There are so many special moments that stand out vivid in my mind from that day. Michael and my mom in their matching surgical gear ready to team up for another installment of Here comes baby. Hearing Ella cry as she took her first breath and the tears that instantly flowed from me. The nurse bringing in a picture they'd photocopied in the nursery so I could gaze at her as they let me recover in the O.R. (this was to get me to my room/baby faster). Ella being ready to nurse right away and latching on like a little pro. Kissing her head full of dark hair and marveling at how tiny her feet were. Introducing her to her big sisters who all shyly came forward to initiate their baby sister into their pack. How precious they looked in their matching pink big sister shirts and witnessing their love for Ella at first sight. Michael proudly holding his fourth baby daughter in his arms and the look of love on his face. Seeing my parents beam with pride over their 8th grandchild. The happiness that was in the air. The pain as meds wore off. The knowledge that it would soon fade. The love that surrounded me. Such an amazing day! Has it really been three years?
Enjoy every moment of being three. I love you more than these words alone could ever express! Happy Birthday, Monkey!!!
There are so many special moments that stand out vivid in my mind from that day. Michael and my mom in their matching surgical gear ready to team up for another installment of Here comes baby. Hearing Ella cry as she took her first breath and the tears that instantly flowed from me. The nurse bringing in a picture they'd photocopied in the nursery so I could gaze at her as they let me recover in the O.R. (this was to get me to my room/baby faster). Ella being ready to nurse right away and latching on like a little pro. Kissing her head full of dark hair and marveling at how tiny her feet were. Introducing her to her big sisters who all shyly came forward to initiate their baby sister into their pack. How precious they looked in their matching pink big sister shirts and witnessing their love for Ella at first sight. Michael proudly holding his fourth baby daughter in his arms and the look of love on his face. Seeing my parents beam with pride over their 8th grandchild. The happiness that was in the air. The pain as meds wore off. The knowledge that it would soon fade. The love that surrounded me. Such an amazing day! Has it really been three years?
Enjoy every moment of being three. I love you more than these words alone could ever express! Happy Birthday, Monkey!!!
Friday, March 4, 2011
This time next week
In one week my baby girl will be three. 3?!!? Yep, three whole years...or to break it on down 1,095 days/156 weeks/36 months old. Do you hear that? Oh it's just the sound of my heart breaking. Not to mention that all my experiments to bend space and time have been a bust. For now I'll have to accept that my kids are going to keep on growing.
OK ok so that's not really such a bad thing. Infact watching your own children learn and grow is pretty awesome. There's nothing better than the look on a child's face after they've accomplished something new. I'm terribly proud of the sweet and smart little girl Ella has become. She's excited about her birthday this year which makes it more exciting for all of us. All she's been talking about for weeks is the pink Dora cake Meme is making her. :)
Sigh. There's no holding them back and that's how it should be. While I may not be able to keep them babies forever I'll always have plenty of photos, videos, and best of all memories.
OK ok so that's not really such a bad thing. Infact watching your own children learn and grow is pretty awesome. There's nothing better than the look on a child's face after they've accomplished something new. I'm terribly proud of the sweet and smart little girl Ella has become. She's excited about her birthday this year which makes it more exciting for all of us. All she's been talking about for weeks is the pink Dora cake Meme is making her. :)
Sigh. There's no holding them back and that's how it should be. While I may not be able to keep them babies forever I'll always have plenty of photos, videos, and best of all memories.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Can I do it?
This is a question that I get asked a lot. A whole lot. I'm thankful that as my children grow they want to do things on their own or want to help me. Truly I am thankful, but..you knew there was a but in there somewhere...some days it gets tedious. When I have to get something done I want it done with as little hem hawing as possible. Well, that just doesn't happen when you add kids to the mix.
We all know patience is a virtue. Boy have I learned that. God says that patience isn't something we should pray for, but instead something we must learn. I always thought I was a patient person, but over the years have realized how little I probably had. The good news is patience grows with time. I thought of this today when I was making lunch. Ava and Ella wanted PB&J. Ok. Ava asked to get everything out. It would have been faster for me to do it, but instead I stood back and watched her grab the jelly from the fridge, climb to reach the peanut butter from the cabinet, and fish out the butter knife from the drawer. I set about opening the jars and started to make the sandwhiches. Then Ava asks, "Can I do it?" I inwardly sighed, but handed over the knife and helped instead. That's when it hit me. When the older girls were younger I would have told them it was just quicker for Mommy to do it, etc. Just like a video game my patience score has been bumped up.
I definitely can't promise I'm not going to lack patience some days and lose my cool. That's the great part of being human or better yet a woman. You never know what mood you're going to get. ;) However I will take this simple memory and draw from it. I will continue to nurture the girls, but also encourage them to learn and embrace them doing it on their own.
We all know patience is a virtue. Boy have I learned that. God says that patience isn't something we should pray for, but instead something we must learn. I always thought I was a patient person, but over the years have realized how little I probably had. The good news is patience grows with time. I thought of this today when I was making lunch. Ava and Ella wanted PB&J. Ok. Ava asked to get everything out. It would have been faster for me to do it, but instead I stood back and watched her grab the jelly from the fridge, climb to reach the peanut butter from the cabinet, and fish out the butter knife from the drawer. I set about opening the jars and started to make the sandwhiches. Then Ava asks, "Can I do it?" I inwardly sighed, but handed over the knife and helped instead. That's when it hit me. When the older girls were younger I would have told them it was just quicker for Mommy to do it, etc. Just like a video game my patience score has been bumped up.
I definitely can't promise I'm not going to lack patience some days and lose my cool. That's the great part of being human or better yet a woman. You never know what mood you're going to get. ;) However I will take this simple memory and draw from it. I will continue to nurture the girls, but also encourage them to learn and embrace them doing it on their own.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Is it over?
February's a short month and all, but geez. Who hit fast forward? I'm convinced time has evolved and gotten faster or something. Seriously.
February was a great month in our household. My man got me flowers not once, but TWICE this month! He said the best part is seeing the smile on my face for something as simple as flowers. Well ain't he a sweetie? *cough* most of the time *cough* Hehe, but I love him all of the time. I also love our girlies so let's catch up on them.
Ella decided potty training was cool and she's been diaper free for a month now. It's still weird not to be changing diapers and sad in a way. Hey, when you've been doing something for almost 10 years straight it becomes the norm lol. My baby girl will be three this month. Insane. She's gotten to be such a big girl and just makes us laugh all the time. I just love to snuggle her up every chance she gives me.
On to Elise who lost another tooth last month. She was freaked that it was a permanent one since she's almost ten. I assured her it was a baby one and that she'd keep losing them until the last little bugger took it's leave. She's gotten so big and is a totally fabulous tween. She loves to read, talk about boys, and watch "grown up shows" with me like The Vampire Diaries(lol really that's probably more of a teen show, but I love it so we won't split hairs).
Next is Olivia who has become the object of several boys fancies in second grade. I understand why as they gaze into her big blue eyes with long lashes..not to mention she has THE cutest giggle. Lord, help us. One certain Lothario even went as far as to proclaim his love by presenting her with a rose last week! Definitely will be keeping her on lockdown once she's older. ;)
That bring us to Ava. Well she continues to amaze us all the time. She's reading on a second grade level already and has moved on to kicking booty and taking names in math. She's curious about everything and is always.asking.questions. She's also our tomboy, so forget girly toys and someone get this kid a motorcycle or another Nerf gun lol. She also loves playing xbox with her Daddy, especially her Indiana Jones games.
Michael and I were blessed to find one another and blessed to be able to create this family. They are my pride and joy. If I said thank you thousands of times each day it wouldn't be enough. Even on the less than perfect days God is so good!
I'm excited to see what March has in store for our family. I wish a lucky and happy month to each of you!
February was a great month in our household. My man got me flowers not once, but TWICE this month! He said the best part is seeing the smile on my face for something as simple as flowers. Well ain't he a sweetie? *cough* most of the time *cough* Hehe, but I love him all of the time. I also love our girlies so let's catch up on them.
Ella decided potty training was cool and she's been diaper free for a month now. It's still weird not to be changing diapers and sad in a way. Hey, when you've been doing something for almost 10 years straight it becomes the norm lol. My baby girl will be three this month. Insane. She's gotten to be such a big girl and just makes us laugh all the time. I just love to snuggle her up every chance she gives me.
On to Elise who lost another tooth last month. She was freaked that it was a permanent one since she's almost ten. I assured her it was a baby one and that she'd keep losing them until the last little bugger took it's leave. She's gotten so big and is a totally fabulous tween. She loves to read, talk about boys, and watch "grown up shows" with me like The Vampire Diaries(lol really that's probably more of a teen show, but I love it so we won't split hairs).
Next is Olivia who has become the object of several boys fancies in second grade. I understand why as they gaze into her big blue eyes with long lashes..not to mention she has THE cutest giggle. Lord, help us. One certain Lothario even went as far as to proclaim his love by presenting her with a rose last week! Definitely will be keeping her on lockdown once she's older. ;)
That bring us to Ava. Well she continues to amaze us all the time. She's reading on a second grade level already and has moved on to kicking booty and taking names in math. She's curious about everything and is always.asking.questions. She's also our tomboy, so forget girly toys and someone get this kid a motorcycle or another Nerf gun lol. She also loves playing xbox with her Daddy, especially her Indiana Jones games.
Michael and I were blessed to find one another and blessed to be able to create this family. They are my pride and joy. If I said thank you thousands of times each day it wouldn't be enough. Even on the less than perfect days God is so good!
I'm excited to see what March has in store for our family. I wish a lucky and happy month to each of you!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Storm Season Is Here
Batton down the hatches and get your first aid kit ready, because storm season is here. Wow. It feels like it was just this time last year and man we had an active season. There were six or maybe more tornado warnings for this area in the month of March alone.
It looks like we're in for the same activity this year. We had our first and second tornado warnings of 2011 on Thursday night. It actually turned into overlapping warnings for our county as two different storms headed our direction, one from the west and one from the south moving NE. Funnel clouds were spotted within ten miles of our home, but thankfully no touchdowns were reported here.
I am fascinated by tornadoes. I watch every show that comes across Discovery, TWC, etc...and ok I'll even admit Twister is one of my favorite movies. I watched it twice last month alone. Well Encore was showing it so how could I resist? It's another of my quotable favorites..the better to annoy Michael with! Seriously though I thrill at the prospect of getting to actually witness a tornado in action. It always makes me feel a bit hypocritical, because I don't want to see one hitting our town and especially not our home. I don't wish them on anyone else, but then I want to see all the footage once the storm has ended. Does that make me a tornadic voyeur?
Yes.
Things are lining up for more severe weather tomorrow evening. Some rain and storms are possible late tonight into tomorrow morning, but then it will warm up and the sun will shine. Bing bang boom this is what will make the atmosphere unstable just in time for the next line to move in tomorrow night.
As much as I love the awesomeness of mother nature at her worst, I do pray for everyone's safety and always hope that if one has to fall that it will be in a very remote area. Be careful this storm season and remember not to wait too long to take shelter. Things can go from bad to worse in a matter of seconds. Stay safe, my friends!
It looks like we're in for the same activity this year. We had our first and second tornado warnings of 2011 on Thursday night. It actually turned into overlapping warnings for our county as two different storms headed our direction, one from the west and one from the south moving NE. Funnel clouds were spotted within ten miles of our home, but thankfully no touchdowns were reported here.
I am fascinated by tornadoes. I watch every show that comes across Discovery, TWC, etc...and ok I'll even admit Twister is one of my favorite movies. I watched it twice last month alone. Well Encore was showing it so how could I resist? It's another of my quotable favorites..the better to annoy Michael with! Seriously though I thrill at the prospect of getting to actually witness a tornado in action. It always makes me feel a bit hypocritical, because I don't want to see one hitting our town and especially not our home. I don't wish them on anyone else, but then I want to see all the footage once the storm has ended. Does that make me a tornadic voyeur?
Yes.
Things are lining up for more severe weather tomorrow evening. Some rain and storms are possible late tonight into tomorrow morning, but then it will warm up and the sun will shine. Bing bang boom this is what will make the atmosphere unstable just in time for the next line to move in tomorrow night.
As much as I love the awesomeness of mother nature at her worst, I do pray for everyone's safety and always hope that if one has to fall that it will be in a very remote area. Be careful this storm season and remember not to wait too long to take shelter. Things can go from bad to worse in a matter of seconds. Stay safe, my friends!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Lazy days of winter
That saying usually has summer tacked at the end, but hey it happens to apply this weekend. We've been loving this warm windy weather. It's lovely outside at a perfectly pleasing 72 degrees. Windows are open and we're going to fire up the grill for the second day in a row.
Beyond the weather, we've been enjoying just spending time together. I love when the six of us can just hang out. We've watched movies, played games, video games, the girls have made lots of art, we took a drive through the country, and spent time outdoors. There's nothing more precious than this time with our girls.
Besides doing some dishes and laundry no other real work has gotten accomplished since Friday. How much do I love this? More than I can say. I can play catch up tomorrow with the housework, but I can never get this weekend back.
I leave you with a poem that I completely love and adore...
Beyond the weather, we've been enjoying just spending time together. I love when the six of us can just hang out. We've watched movies, played games, video games, the girls have made lots of art, we took a drive through the country, and spent time outdoors. There's nothing more precious than this time with our girls.
Besides doing some dishes and laundry no other real work has gotten accomplished since Friday. How much do I love this? More than I can say. I can play catch up tomorrow with the housework, but I can never get this weekend back.
I leave you with a poem that I completely love and adore...
Song for a Fifth Child
- by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton
Friday, February 18, 2011
All Hail the King
It is Friday! I swear I can almost hear the excitement thrumming through the veins of all the school aged children right now. They're desperately trying to pay attention in class while their minds are wandering elsewhere. I know it's hard to learn about long division on a beautiful day like today. Especially when the gorgeous day is Friday.
I remember living for the weekends when I was a kid. Friday couldn't come quick enough. I always had my dance card full. Sleepovers, birthday parties, staying up all night giggling, talking about boys, talking on the phone to boys. As I became older it was cruising, hanging, going out, and all the other "wouldn't you like to know" stuff.
Friday was King.
Once Michael and I were married I worked my way up to asst manager of a retail store. There's no weekend in retail land. Good luck even getting two days off together. Friday lost it's luster as it became just another day. A few years later I happily became a stay at home mom and all of the days flowed together. Friday was just a day of our week.
Then Elise started school. Just like that Fridays had meaning again. We both looked forward to it all week long. Now Liv is in school as well and her take is the same. They wake up so easily on Fridays and practically skip to the van to head to school. They're all chattering about what they're going to do when they get home, making plans, and asking how late they can stay up. I love it!
Polish up the crown, my friends. Friday is King.
I remember living for the weekends when I was a kid. Friday couldn't come quick enough. I always had my dance card full. Sleepovers, birthday parties, staying up all night giggling, talking about boys, talking on the phone to boys. As I became older it was cruising, hanging, going out, and all the other "wouldn't you like to know" stuff.
Friday was King.
Once Michael and I were married I worked my way up to asst manager of a retail store. There's no weekend in retail land. Good luck even getting two days off together. Friday lost it's luster as it became just another day. A few years later I happily became a stay at home mom and all of the days flowed together. Friday was just a day of our week.
Then Elise started school. Just like that Fridays had meaning again. We both looked forward to it all week long. Now Liv is in school as well and her take is the same. They wake up so easily on Fridays and practically skip to the van to head to school. They're all chattering about what they're going to do when they get home, making plans, and asking how late they can stay up. I love it!
Polish up the crown, my friends. Friday is King.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Winter Meets Spring...
..who will be triumphant?
So I've mentioned before how I love talking weather. Ok not just talking, but watching weather, hearing about weather. Upside? I'll be totally set for conversation when I'm 80.
It's the middle of February and that's a tricky time weather wise. One day we're surviving blizzard-like conditions and mere days later it's in the upper 60s and it's time to shrug off the parka. Don't pack it away however, because Winter still has us within her cold reach. I have to say that this beautiful weather is nice! Seeing the sun out and the fact the kids can play without fear of frostbite is a treat. That being said, I wouldn't mind one more good snow. Yes, that's what I said. Winter is shorter for us in the south so I welcome all it sends our way...well maybe not the ice.
On the 2nd that famous little groundhog prognasticated an early Spring. Will the little varmit be correct? I'm giddy to see what Mother Nature will throw our way. The cold fronts, the warms fronts, and pressure systems, oh my! It's enough to give this weather junkie heart palpitations.
So I've mentioned before how I love talking weather. Ok not just talking, but watching weather, hearing about weather. Upside? I'll be totally set for conversation when I'm 80.
It's the middle of February and that's a tricky time weather wise. One day we're surviving blizzard-like conditions and mere days later it's in the upper 60s and it's time to shrug off the parka. Don't pack it away however, because Winter still has us within her cold reach. I have to say that this beautiful weather is nice! Seeing the sun out and the fact the kids can play without fear of frostbite is a treat. That being said, I wouldn't mind one more good snow. Yes, that's what I said. Winter is shorter for us in the south so I welcome all it sends our way...well maybe not the ice.
On the 2nd that famous little groundhog prognasticated an early Spring. Will the little varmit be correct? I'm giddy to see what Mother Nature will throw our way. The cold fronts, the warms fronts, and pressure systems, oh my! It's enough to give this weather junkie heart palpitations.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Happy Valentine's Day
It's that time of year again. You know, the one where love just oozes from our pores. Ok that doesn't sound highly romantic, does it?
A lot of people don't like Valentine's Day. That's fine. I can respect that, but I happen to be one who loves the declarations of love, the candy being given, the pink and red decorations, and cards being exchanged. Yes, we should love our signficant other all 364 other days a year, but life moves at such a fast pace that it's easy to forget to cherish your mate when you're going through the motions of every day life. Having a special day set aside just for this purpose suits me fine!
No tokens of affection are a must, but they are appreciated lol. I have the most beautiful arrangement of flowers sitting behind me from my Valentine. He knows that they mean more to me than anything else he could have gotten. I adore flowers. Small, large, from the yard, from a florist..it makes no difference to me. They make me smile everytime I walk by their showplace on the dining room table. When we were first dating it was long distance. Every Friday he would show up with a bouquet of flowers. Every. Single. Friday. I loved seeing and smelling them and knowing that he was thinking of me even when I wasn't around. They were treasured all week long until the next bouquet came. Being the sappy kind of person that I am, I kept all the petals. Then we used them as the petals my niece dropped on our wedding day and there's a small bag of them in my wedding keepsake box to show the girls one day.
Well that's enough strolling down memory lane for now. Whether you're feeling the holiday ir not, I think we can all agree to remind the loves in our lives just how special they are to us..not just today, but every day!
A lot of people don't like Valentine's Day. That's fine. I can respect that, but I happen to be one who loves the declarations of love, the candy being given, the pink and red decorations, and cards being exchanged. Yes, we should love our signficant other all 364 other days a year, but life moves at such a fast pace that it's easy to forget to cherish your mate when you're going through the motions of every day life. Having a special day set aside just for this purpose suits me fine!
No tokens of affection are a must, but they are appreciated lol. I have the most beautiful arrangement of flowers sitting behind me from my Valentine. He knows that they mean more to me than anything else he could have gotten. I adore flowers. Small, large, from the yard, from a florist..it makes no difference to me. They make me smile everytime I walk by their showplace on the dining room table. When we were first dating it was long distance. Every Friday he would show up with a bouquet of flowers. Every. Single. Friday. I loved seeing and smelling them and knowing that he was thinking of me even when I wasn't around. They were treasured all week long until the next bouquet came. Being the sappy kind of person that I am, I kept all the petals. Then we used them as the petals my niece dropped on our wedding day and there's a small bag of them in my wedding keepsake box to show the girls one day.
Well that's enough strolling down memory lane for now. Whether you're feeling the holiday ir not, I think we can all agree to remind the loves in our lives just how special they are to us..not just today, but every day!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Formal Introductions
How remiss of me not to announce the newest member of our family! Yes, after much consideration, we decided to cohabitate with yet another creature.
She..as if it wouldn't be another female in this household..is a baby Bearded Dragon. There was plenty debate, but we've settled (i.e. I won) on the name. She's now Nessie, after the legendary Loch Ness monster of course.
Now class, we come to the learning portion of this post. You may chose to skip, but be prepared that there may be a quiz at the end. Pogona are a genus of lizards containing seven species, which are often known by the common name bearded dragons. Members of this genus live in the arid, rocky, semi-desert regions and dry open woodlands of Australia. are adept climbers, spending time on branches and in bushes, even found on fence posts when living near human habitation. Pogona bask on rocks and exposed branches in the mornings and afternoons. -Wikipedia
Bindi is a tough act to follow as far as Bearded Dragons go. She was the first of her kind to capture our hearts and truly remind us that you can't judge a book by it's cover. Spiky on the outside, lovable on the inside. Now thanks to her we've opened our hearts and home to another reptile. Who'd of ever thunk it? Certainly not me!
Now to show her off and rest assured these photos are the real deal. No hoaxes with our little Nessie. ;-)
She..as if it wouldn't be another female in this household..is a baby Bearded Dragon. There was plenty debate, but we've settled (i.e. I won) on the name. She's now Nessie, after the legendary Loch Ness monster of course.
Now class, we come to the learning portion of this post. You may chose to skip, but be prepared that there may be a quiz at the end. Pogona are a genus of lizards containing seven species, which are often known by the common name bearded dragons. Members of this genus live in the arid, rocky, semi-desert regions and dry open woodlands of Australia. are adept climbers, spending time on branches and in bushes, even found on fence posts when living near human habitation. Pogona bask on rocks and exposed branches in the mornings and afternoons. -Wikipedia
Bindi is a tough act to follow as far as Bearded Dragons go. She was the first of her kind to capture our hearts and truly remind us that you can't judge a book by it's cover. Spiky on the outside, lovable on the inside. Now thanks to her we've opened our hearts and home to another reptile. Who'd of ever thunk it? Certainly not me!
Now to show her off and rest assured these photos are the real deal. No hoaxes with our little Nessie. ;-)
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Happy New Year!!!
Long time no type. I haven't been so good at blogging over the holidays. *insert a sheepish grin here*Things have been so busy, but now that another holiday season has come and gone things should be slowing down to our normal chaotic pace lol. I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas. We sure did and I couldn't be more thankful! The older girls said it was the best one ever and I'd have to agree.
2010 was a wonderful year. Things didn't go as planned in many cases(do they ever?), but we all came through healthy and happy and above all else that is what really matters. I'm looking forward to 2011. There are many things I hope to happen and exciting events that are already planned. I wish each of my friends and family members a blessed year and I look forward to seeing all the exciting happenings in each of your lives and sharing all of our blessings!
2010 was a wonderful year. Things didn't go as planned in many cases(do they ever?), but we all came through healthy and happy and above all else that is what really matters. I'm looking forward to 2011. There are many things I hope to happen and exciting events that are already planned. I wish each of my friends and family members a blessed year and I look forward to seeing all the exciting happenings in each of your lives and sharing all of our blessings!
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!
There are some things in life that revert me back to a state of childhood. Little white flakes falling from the sky are one of those things. I love snow. Completely, utterly love it. I love to watch it peacefully falling, love to see the girls playing in it, love how shiny and new it makes everything look. Every year I hope for at least one good snow.
We had some flurries today for the second time this holiday season and it's whet my appetite for more. This morning I was hoisting both Ava and Ella up to the window so they could press their little noses to the cold glass and watch the flakes swirl about. Their excitement was catching...or was it my excitement that was contagious? LOL either way excitement was alive in our home! The snow didn't last long and what little bit of accumulation there was got blown away by the crazy winds. That's ok though, because having a little is better than having none. We will keep hoping for more and maybe, just maybe we'll get a white Christmas this year.
ps The best news is since I've been writing this, more snowflakes have been spotted. I'll take that as a sign that my Christmas snow wish has been heard. ;-)
A pic of the snow in January of this year...
My three big girls have a meeting of the minds...
We had some flurries today for the second time this holiday season and it's whet my appetite for more. This morning I was hoisting both Ava and Ella up to the window so they could press their little noses to the cold glass and watch the flakes swirl about. Their excitement was catching...or was it my excitement that was contagious? LOL either way excitement was alive in our home! The snow didn't last long and what little bit of accumulation there was got blown away by the crazy winds. That's ok though, because having a little is better than having none. We will keep hoping for more and maybe, just maybe we'll get a white Christmas this year.
ps The best news is since I've been writing this, more snowflakes have been spotted. I'll take that as a sign that my Christmas snow wish has been heard. ;-)
A pic of the snow in January of this year...
Ella sampling some snow....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)