This has been such a powerful statement for me. I have always put others feelings, thoughts and well being above my own. From my family, to my husband and on to my kids. In the shuffle of life, I am realizing that I can not be the best person I can be, without growing.
Let me give you a little bit of a "back story." After my husband and I married in 1999, I focused solely on the "type" of person I thought he needed. I grew up in a town...not in the country. I knew you went to the grocery store to purchase food. I knew it was grown on farms...but not much more than that. So, I zeroed in on his way of life, and worked on changing me - to please him. Now, he did not ask me to, but I felt I needed to. I had never shot a gun, never been hunting, never grown a garden of my own, let alone processed that garden to have food for Winter (canning). So, I dove in....having not a clue of what task I was taking on. Needless to say, I learned and complained and honestly didn't like much of what I was doing. Then a year and half later, our son was born. Again, I transformed myself. I went into the "perfect Mom," theory. Everything a first time Mom thinks is acceptable. Let me tell you.....I had a LOT to learn! My relationship was in shambles, I was miserable, and in turn I had a very cranky little boy. That was my first lesson as a new Mom. When I was upset, it upset my baby! I went through serious depression. I was afraid to leave the house, and went so far as to go to my doctor for medicine. Note: The depression medicine actually made things worse!
As the years wore on, life didn't get much easier. My son was a year old when I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I had the surgery, went through the emotional termmoil that entailed and beat it!!! However, every year I still cringe when I go for my visit. In 2003, my husband and I divorced. Although at the time, it was for other reasons, I saw that divorce as a means to an end. We still did not get along, I had no help with our son. I was depressed and had lost the person that I was....and I really liked the person I used to be. I went back to my hometown only to find out that I really didn't fit in that life style anymore. So, 2 months later I was back in Missouri and back with my husband. We were remarried in November of 2003. We decided we would work on our differences and try to make our marriage better. It was a constant roller coaster!
In 2005, I found the company I work with. AmeriplanUSA. They were a gift from God! I loved the company. I found something I could be passionate about, and something that I could not only make a living with, but something I could help others with. I am still with this amazing company today!
Now, back to current time. I have found myself increasing getting down again. I now have my son and daughter, and have adjusted to life as a country wife....and even love it! However, I find myself resenting the fact that I have lost the person I used to be. I don't have the compassion I once had, I don't venture out much, and most of my emotions are locked in a secret compartment. I don't show much emotion unless the emotions are so strong, that they can not help but come out.
So, part of our company training is personal development. Until recently, I had laughed at this. I kept thinking, "I don't need a cheerleader, or some guru telling me how to believe in something." Boy, I couldn't be more wrong. The personal development strategy isn't about a rah-rah section. It is about remembering to always make time for you... I have been fortunate to have a company that has found some of the best personal development trainers in the world.
I have spent 2 weeks now, listening to every personal development guru I can find to listen to. I am not looking for a cheerleader but someone who can inspire me to be the best "Me," possible. I have begun exercising again, I am working on some other bad habits, and even taking time everyday to laugh. Yes, of all the crazy things I've heard....Laughing is honestly one of the hardest things for me. I am a natural born worrier. So, making time daily to laugh can be a chore, but I am learning to look at things through my children's eyes.
I am growing and reinventing myself. I've heard it said that we learn step outside of ourselves when we get married, and have kids. I don't think I could explain it any better. Now, as I grow and learn and spend some time on me....I can also accept my flaws, and imperfections. I can honestly say, though, something I still can not grasp is how to stop my mood from changing when others around me are so negative or doubting. I hope this comes with time.
I hope that those who read this can relate in some sense. I can not encourage you enough to work on yourself, and continue to grow as a person. Find your passion, and go with that passion as if you have fire under your feet.
God Bless!
This crazy but wonderful life we live. Home education, self-sufficient living, learning, growing, and finding our way on our farm and in life. Teaching frugality, logic, and common sense. Grab some coffee and enjoy my regular writings on current subjects and interests.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Our "quiet" weekend.....HA!
Well, our quiet, uneventful, and "no-plan" weekend has been crazy! Laughing, I have to say absolutely nothing has been accomplished, but we've been busy!
Friday was a strange day. Joey and I had to argue again before school. I will be so glad when this public school struggles are over! We have 22 actual school days left. Believe me, I think I am counting them down with more excitement than Joey! Anyway, my whole day was spent feeling guilty for putting him on the bus with tears, again. I really didn't do anything all day. I decided about 2 Friday afternoon that I needed to go to the grocery store, and get a few things. So, I surprised Joey, by picking him up at school. We spent about 20 minutes talking about the morning and agreed that these arguements are hard for both of us to deal with. We got groceries, and he helped so much. When we got home, he even carried groceries in for me. I decided I wasn't cooking, so we ordered out for supper. Then Joey had a friend come over who stayed until 10:30. Part of that was because the child's mom and I were talking! So, this morning we had to have a brief disagreement about picking up toys. I think this is an on-going arguement. So, around 10:30 Joey's friend Damien came over again. Damien has become our second son. He is here about every weekend. He and Joey have so much fun. We were supposed to go to Richard's youngest sister's prom grand march tonight. Well, the lovely weather had pretty much hindered that from about 3 this afternoon on. So, as of right now, we've had 2 plus inches of rain since 4 and it's still raining and storming! I hope it stops soon!!!!
Friday was a strange day. Joey and I had to argue again before school. I will be so glad when this public school struggles are over! We have 22 actual school days left. Believe me, I think I am counting them down with more excitement than Joey! Anyway, my whole day was spent feeling guilty for putting him on the bus with tears, again. I really didn't do anything all day. I decided about 2 Friday afternoon that I needed to go to the grocery store, and get a few things. So, I surprised Joey, by picking him up at school. We spent about 20 minutes talking about the morning and agreed that these arguements are hard for both of us to deal with. We got groceries, and he helped so much. When we got home, he even carried groceries in for me. I decided I wasn't cooking, so we ordered out for supper. Then Joey had a friend come over who stayed until 10:30. Part of that was because the child's mom and I were talking! So, this morning we had to have a brief disagreement about picking up toys. I think this is an on-going arguement. So, around 10:30 Joey's friend Damien came over again. Damien has become our second son. He is here about every weekend. He and Joey have so much fun. We were supposed to go to Richard's youngest sister's prom grand march tonight. Well, the lovely weather had pretty much hindered that from about 3 this afternoon on. So, as of right now, we've had 2 plus inches of rain since 4 and it's still raining and storming! I hope it stops soon!!!!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Some misc. thoughts
It's amazing to me how biased our media in the USA is. A friend of mine from Wisconsin had posted a link today, that had her angry. Once I watched and listened to this link, I, too was fuming. Those of us that choose to school our children at home, are catagorized by the 10% of home school parents that an extreme approach. The story was run on ABC's Good Morning America. In the clip, it showed 2 families that chose to take what is called an Unschooling approach. Unschooling is done without books, tests, or a set curriculum. The theory of this approach is that the child will lead the learning process. Again, in theory, it can be productive with the right mind process. The 2 couples they happened to show were the extremists of this theory. They call their approach "Unschooling," but they have chosen to do it without rules, parental guidance, or respect from the children. The article made me sick!
Of the 1.5 MILLION children that are home-educated, only 10% are educated by the "Unschooling Theory." That is 150,000 children. The remaining 90% are educated in ways that our public schools are unable to provide. However, the national media, has chosen to show these extremists, as opposed to showing any of the other 90% that have structure, guidance, respect, and have chosen home-education to help their children. It is a fact that children, with a respectable home education, are more educated, and much more advanced that children in public or even private schools. My personal thought is a process for my son. It has been an unschooling, to start. This way the public school remnents are able to be erased. Then we are going to be educating more in an eclectic/Charlotte Mason style. This being said, I want my son to be able to advance in the areas that he is already excelling, and focus/work on the areas that he is struggling. Fortunitely, he is really advanced on most subjects. Our first year is going to be a lot of experimenting to find the right schedule, curriculum, and pace...but there is no reason between Richard & I that we can't give our son & daughter the best and most extensive education possible!
I hope that a responsible news reporting agency will do a real story about the 90% of home-educated children that are truely excelling and how fantastic this option is for responsible parents.
Of the 1.5 MILLION children that are home-educated, only 10% are educated by the "Unschooling Theory." That is 150,000 children. The remaining 90% are educated in ways that our public schools are unable to provide. However, the national media, has chosen to show these extremists, as opposed to showing any of the other 90% that have structure, guidance, respect, and have chosen home-education to help their children. It is a fact that children, with a respectable home education, are more educated, and much more advanced that children in public or even private schools. My personal thought is a process for my son. It has been an unschooling, to start. This way the public school remnents are able to be erased. Then we are going to be educating more in an eclectic/Charlotte Mason style. This being said, I want my son to be able to advance in the areas that he is already excelling, and focus/work on the areas that he is struggling. Fortunitely, he is really advanced on most subjects. Our first year is going to be a lot of experimenting to find the right schedule, curriculum, and pace...but there is no reason between Richard & I that we can't give our son & daughter the best and most extensive education possible!
I hope that a responsible news reporting agency will do a real story about the 90% of home-educated children that are truely excelling and how fantastic this option is for responsible parents.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Our weekend plans and garden news
Once again, the weekend is here and it's total craziness around our house. We cram everything possible into our 1 1/2 days of all four of us at home. We have to mow, again! I love the grass, and even the dandilions, the flowers that are starting to peek through, and I absolutely love seeing the garden tilled!
Joey typically mows, Richard trims, and Chloe & I will be working in the flower beds. I have so much planned for this summer! I am re-doing the landscaping & flower beds, or at least attempting to get them redone.
It's looking like tomorrow will be planting day in the garden. We have several plants to get in. 9 tomato plants, 12 cabbage plants, 9 bell pepper plants, onion sets, and tons of seeds. We are still waiting on 20 skyscraper corn seeds, 17 tomato plants, a tomato/potato plant, lemon grass plant, hummingbird plant, and about 9 other plants. For indoor plants: blueberry, bonsai tree, herbs, and still waiting on: banana tree, lemon & lime trees, and indoor tomatoes.
Yep, it's going to be a busy fall! I get to teach my 2 youngest sister-in-laws to can! I can't wait. It's a lot of work, but the rewards come about November when you want good food! My canning usually consists of tomato juice, spaghetti sauce, pizza sauce, chili sauce, pickles, cabbage, carrots, green beans, corn, stewed tomatoes, and maybe some V-8 this year. I freeze corn, and peppers. I will also be canning some meat this year again.
Joey is going to have his own little garden this year. He has seeds for: beets, peas, watermelon, zucchini, and tomatoes. I am excited to see how it all turns out!
This weekend is shaping up like every other warm weather weekend. Hoping to have a bonfire tonight, and roast some hot dogs, and make smores.
Well, that's about all for now.
Joey typically mows, Richard trims, and Chloe & I will be working in the flower beds. I have so much planned for this summer! I am re-doing the landscaping & flower beds, or at least attempting to get them redone.
It's looking like tomorrow will be planting day in the garden. We have several plants to get in. 9 tomato plants, 12 cabbage plants, 9 bell pepper plants, onion sets, and tons of seeds. We are still waiting on 20 skyscraper corn seeds, 17 tomato plants, a tomato/potato plant, lemon grass plant, hummingbird plant, and about 9 other plants. For indoor plants: blueberry, bonsai tree, herbs, and still waiting on: banana tree, lemon & lime trees, and indoor tomatoes.
Yep, it's going to be a busy fall! I get to teach my 2 youngest sister-in-laws to can! I can't wait. It's a lot of work, but the rewards come about November when you want good food! My canning usually consists of tomato juice, spaghetti sauce, pizza sauce, chili sauce, pickles, cabbage, carrots, green beans, corn, stewed tomatoes, and maybe some V-8 this year. I freeze corn, and peppers. I will also be canning some meat this year again.
Joey is going to have his own little garden this year. He has seeds for: beets, peas, watermelon, zucchini, and tomatoes. I am excited to see how it all turns out!
This weekend is shaping up like every other warm weather weekend. Hoping to have a bonfire tonight, and roast some hot dogs, and make smores.
Well, that's about all for now.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Emotional Nonsense
Wow, it amazes me at how much I appreciate more and more as I get older. Yesterday, we decided to get groceries so that Richard can work on the race car tonight.
As we are driving to Keokuk, I am noticing so much. The trees in full bloom, the tulips that have awoke from their Winter slumber, the tractors working the soil...oh, the beautiful black dirt! I am loving looking at the freshly planted fields, and seeing out cutting their lawns. It's so simple, but also so amazing. Each year we go through the seasons, some we love and some we don't. After such a long, snowy Winter....everything, including people, are coming back to life. I know we complain when it's too cold, or icy, or snowing, but for many of us...Christmas isn't the same without snow. In the Spring, everything begins coming back to life. We are able to get outdoors and blow off some of the mustiness of Winter. We have storms, but how can life continue to bloom without them? Then comes my least favorite season....Summer. It is hot, humid, and the electric bills go sky high with the air conditioning. But, that being said....I wouldn't get to have my beautiful garden with out the heat and humidity to help fuel the growth. We get to have wonderful bonfires with friends and family, enjoy some good "old-fashioned," fun. Then come Fall. All the tractors go out again, to harvest what they hope will be a bountiful crop, I get to "harvest" my wonderful garden, and know that I will have fresh food throughout the Winter, more bonfires with cooler temps, and watching nature prepare for the coming Winter. And of course, my favorite season of all....Winter! Yes, I know, I am nuts! I hate driving in snow and ice...but my 2 favorite holidays are in Winter. Thanksgiving, and Christmas! I love decorating with lights, garland, putting up the tree, watching the different landscapes come alive with lights. The family time spent during these holidays is always my favorite. I have so much to be thankful for every year, and celebrating the birth of Christ is never forgotten. Winter has so much beauty if you look at it from a different perspective. Yes, driving conditions stink.... but the snow falling, shimmering ice on the trees, the wind whistling it's own tune, the smell of fresh baked goods all the time, and watching the kids eyes light up every time they look at the Christmas tree. Honestly, what can be better? Looking at life through a child's eyes has changed my perspective.
I know this is really more emotion than I typically show these days....but it really took me aback last night. It is so amazing to slow down, change your view point, and relearn the simple things in life. Have you laid on a blanket lately, and tried to find pictures in the clouds? Have you had a picnic lately? Try it....it's so much fun to live the simple life!
As we are driving to Keokuk, I am noticing so much. The trees in full bloom, the tulips that have awoke from their Winter slumber, the tractors working the soil...oh, the beautiful black dirt! I am loving looking at the freshly planted fields, and seeing out cutting their lawns. It's so simple, but also so amazing. Each year we go through the seasons, some we love and some we don't. After such a long, snowy Winter....everything, including people, are coming back to life. I know we complain when it's too cold, or icy, or snowing, but for many of us...Christmas isn't the same without snow. In the Spring, everything begins coming back to life. We are able to get outdoors and blow off some of the mustiness of Winter. We have storms, but how can life continue to bloom without them? Then comes my least favorite season....Summer. It is hot, humid, and the electric bills go sky high with the air conditioning. But, that being said....I wouldn't get to have my beautiful garden with out the heat and humidity to help fuel the growth. We get to have wonderful bonfires with friends and family, enjoy some good "old-fashioned," fun. Then come Fall. All the tractors go out again, to harvest what they hope will be a bountiful crop, I get to "harvest" my wonderful garden, and know that I will have fresh food throughout the Winter, more bonfires with cooler temps, and watching nature prepare for the coming Winter. And of course, my favorite season of all....Winter! Yes, I know, I am nuts! I hate driving in snow and ice...but my 2 favorite holidays are in Winter. Thanksgiving, and Christmas! I love decorating with lights, garland, putting up the tree, watching the different landscapes come alive with lights. The family time spent during these holidays is always my favorite. I have so much to be thankful for every year, and celebrating the birth of Christ is never forgotten. Winter has so much beauty if you look at it from a different perspective. Yes, driving conditions stink.... but the snow falling, shimmering ice on the trees, the wind whistling it's own tune, the smell of fresh baked goods all the time, and watching the kids eyes light up every time they look at the Christmas tree. Honestly, what can be better? Looking at life through a child's eyes has changed my perspective.
I know this is really more emotion than I typically show these days....but it really took me aback last night. It is so amazing to slow down, change your view point, and relearn the simple things in life. Have you laid on a blanket lately, and tried to find pictures in the clouds? Have you had a picnic lately? Try it....it's so much fun to live the simple life!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Wednesday April 14th
It has been such a crazy week so far. Monday's arguement with Joey, led to the making of an inspirational chain to count down the days left in public school. So far, it's working great! The 1st two messages were: 1- No one is perfect-that's why pencils have erasers. 2- The only place where dreams are impossible is in your own mind. He is loving these, plus it gives us an interpretive conversation piece. It's been fun hearing what he thinks the messages means, and then sharing what I think they mean. this was an excellent experiment!
We attended Joey's book fair/art show last night. His art is amazing....he definitely did not get his art skills from me! We went through the book fair, and I found 42 books for his home education lessons and only spent $11.60! The most reasonable of these books, I've found online, was $28 each!
Today is mid week to one of the busiest weeks we've had yet! We will attempt to plant the garden tonight, groceries tomorrow night, bonfire Friday night, Fun City Amusement park Saturday all day, and a 3-d bow shoot Sunday. Next week appears to be calmer....for now. We have Richard's youngest sisters Prom grand march next Saturday...but that is all that's on the calender for now.
I have been gathering info for some weekend vacations for our family. We have discussed a trip to Morris to see family, a trip to Springfield, IL and Springfield, MO. A trip to Hannibal to see the cave, and I would love to make a trip to St. Louis for some seafood and a trip to the science center...and maybe a trip to Chicago to the zoo, shed aquarium, and the Musium of Science and Industry.
I think that's a brief update. I am sure to have more later! : )
We attended Joey's book fair/art show last night. His art is amazing....he definitely did not get his art skills from me! We went through the book fair, and I found 42 books for his home education lessons and only spent $11.60! The most reasonable of these books, I've found online, was $28 each!
Today is mid week to one of the busiest weeks we've had yet! We will attempt to plant the garden tonight, groceries tomorrow night, bonfire Friday night, Fun City Amusement park Saturday all day, and a 3-d bow shoot Sunday. Next week appears to be calmer....for now. We have Richard's youngest sisters Prom grand march next Saturday...but that is all that's on the calender for now.
I have been gathering info for some weekend vacations for our family. We have discussed a trip to Morris to see family, a trip to Springfield, IL and Springfield, MO. A trip to Hannibal to see the cave, and I would love to make a trip to St. Louis for some seafood and a trip to the science center...and maybe a trip to Chicago to the zoo, shed aquarium, and the Musium of Science and Industry.
I think that's a brief update. I am sure to have more later! : )
Monday, April 12, 2010
Frustration
What a morning! I am so frustrated by the constant arguement and tears by both Joey & I, every morning. He absolutely is despising school, he can not possibly be learning anything with the emotions we go through everyday. He gets so worked up about having to go to school, even the night before. I end up arguing with him every morning, get him to school, and then I bawl for an hour because of the frustrations. We have made an educated choice to begin home-educating Joey in July, for his 4th grade year, but I wonder how much damage will be done by pushing him for another 6 weeks. He has already lost a lot of his desire to learn, and I hate to see that. Learning is such a solid foundation. I can start teaching him some from home, but because things are done differently in public schools, I don't want him to be confused by the different learning styles.
I am totally at a loss right now. Richard and I are going to talk about it more tonight after the kids are in bed, but in the meantime....I am questioning the benefits of waiting until May to pull him out of public school.
I am totally at a loss right now. Richard and I are going to talk about it more tonight after the kids are in bed, but in the meantime....I am questioning the benefits of waiting until May to pull him out of public school.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Welcome Spring
It's officially Spring! The garden is tilled and ready to be planted. Since one of our science experiments this year has been starting seeds in a small hot house. We got the seeds started...some of them grew, some did not. It was great to watch the process. We officially transplanted them into Jiffy pots today and ready to start them in the garden. Our peppers, a watermelon plant, oregano, and parsley fared well and are ready for their Summer home in the garden. After supper, I will be planting my Bonsai tree and my blueberries. We ordered a bunch of experimental plants this year. Several kinds of tomato plants, including one that is tomatos on top and potatos below., some indoor tomato plants, skyscraper corn that is supposed to reach 20 feet high, a banana tree, a sweet leaf plant, and a lemon & lime tree. I am so anxious to see how it all turns out.
We are grilling tonight for the second time this year. I love being able to spend so much time outdoors. I believe grilling will be a several times per week, ordeal this year. I want to spend every possible moment out doors.
On to some other subjects...
I have gotten all of Joey's 4th grade curriculum downloaded, and ready to print. I am looking forward to the time we will spend together and being able to teach him so much. 33 days and counting!!!
Chloe is learning that dirt doesn't taste too good, and neither does chalk. Joey & I tried to show her how to draw on the concrete, but she thought the chalk was to eat! : ) It was fun either way. With the garden tilled, I showed Chloe what the dirt felt like, and she got to touch the worms. That was a funny sight. She also got her first tractor ride today. She loved it!
I am honestly dreading tomorrow morning. Joey goes back to school and Richard back to work. I have really enjoyed our family time this weekend. It's the first weekend we have had in ages, that has been so great. We've spent time outdoors, laughed, worked, played, eaten meals together, and just really enjoyed each others company.
I can't imagine how the Summer will go, but if it is anything like this weekend....it is going to be the greatest Summer!
We are grilling tonight for the second time this year. I love being able to spend so much time outdoors. I believe grilling will be a several times per week, ordeal this year. I want to spend every possible moment out doors.
On to some other subjects...
I have gotten all of Joey's 4th grade curriculum downloaded, and ready to print. I am looking forward to the time we will spend together and being able to teach him so much. 33 days and counting!!!
Chloe is learning that dirt doesn't taste too good, and neither does chalk. Joey & I tried to show her how to draw on the concrete, but she thought the chalk was to eat! : ) It was fun either way. With the garden tilled, I showed Chloe what the dirt felt like, and she got to touch the worms. That was a funny sight. She also got her first tractor ride today. She loved it!
I am honestly dreading tomorrow morning. Joey goes back to school and Richard back to work. I have really enjoyed our family time this weekend. It's the first weekend we have had in ages, that has been so great. We've spent time outdoors, laughed, worked, played, eaten meals together, and just really enjoyed each others company.
I can't imagine how the Summer will go, but if it is anything like this weekend....it is going to be the greatest Summer!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Great day, overall
What an outstanding day! Chloe took her first steps alone today. We were playing in the yard, she let go of my hand took about 5 steps and then realized that she had done it alone. It was so amazing to see. I almost cried....my baby is growing up!
Joey and his friend Damien played all day! The boys had so much fun running, riding bicycles, riding the 4-wheeler, and then the water fight. Now, they are fighting to stay awake, and watching cartoons.
I have had an emotional day. Overall, it was the best day in ages. My baby girl walked, my "baby" boy had a great day, the yard got mowed and looks awesome, and I got to spend all day outdoors. I did find that a friend, whom I have depended on and trusted with my life for years hadn't been honest with me. That hurt, but I hope to find out why they couldn't tell me the truth.
Anyway, back to the rest of the day..... It has truly been a great day with my family. Tomorrow will be another busy, and productive day. Tilling the garden, and planting the plants/seeds we have.
Have an amazing night and I'll write again soon!
Sal
Joey and his friend Damien played all day! The boys had so much fun running, riding bicycles, riding the 4-wheeler, and then the water fight. Now, they are fighting to stay awake, and watching cartoons.
I have had an emotional day. Overall, it was the best day in ages. My baby girl walked, my "baby" boy had a great day, the yard got mowed and looks awesome, and I got to spend all day outdoors. I did find that a friend, whom I have depended on and trusted with my life for years hadn't been honest with me. That hurt, but I hope to find out why they couldn't tell me the truth.
Anyway, back to the rest of the day..... It has truly been a great day with my family. Tomorrow will be another busy, and productive day. Tilling the garden, and planting the plants/seeds we have.
Have an amazing night and I'll write again soon!
Sal
More random thoughts
Gosh, where to start. I always have a million thoughts going through my head at any given moment. Trying to organize them in order is proving a challenge this morning! : ) I guess I will start with yesterday afternoon and then move forward.
Our school buses were moved back to hard surface routes only, so that meant having to take Joey to and from school yesterday. Hopefully they will be back on normal routes Monday! Anyway, after picking Joey up at school, we can home. It was such a fantastic day yesterday, I just couldn't force myself to stay indoors. So, Joey got his snack and out the door we went! We spent almost an hour outside. Joey and the puppies ran around the yard until all of them were panting! : ) Chloe and I walked the entire yard, played with the puppies, and our beagle Kate. Chloe held my hand as we walked and had to stop occassionally to feel the grass, or dirt. I picked her up for awhile, and she had to feel the trees, the new flowers coming to life, and anything else that caught her attention! She had so much fun exploring, and I was having a blast watching her face light up every time she saw something new. It was so nice spending quality time with both kids. I am usually fussing about the house, or dealing with phone calls or text messages. I left the phone in the house so I wouldn't have an interruptions! We had a ball, and I can't wait to spend more time with the kids!
After our dinner of cold sandwiches,lol, I set in on cleaning the office! That room was knee deep from the door clear through! What a challenge that room was! By midnight, I had everything clean, and all but the filing done. Filing will be a project for later. I love knowing there is a floor, and desk in there! :D
Now, I knew the puppies would need some outside time before I called it a night. So, at a little after midnight, with everyone else in the house sleeping, I let them out. I got online for a bit. Boy, am I glad I did! I found the PERFECT curriculum for Joey! It covers every subject and outside of a$60 set of books, is totally free! It's called an olf fashioned education. It's exactly what I was trying to find. I have some printing to do, but it is very cut & dry and provides all the info I need to teach him right. It includes Bible study, math, language arts, history, science, reading/grammar, biographies, art/art composition, music, foreign language and more!
Well, after a few hours of sleep, I am up and on the go. Today's agenda includes: cleaning up the yard, mowing, Joey has a friend coming over, hoping to have a bonfire, and more quality time with my family. I do have a few yucky chores to finish; laundry, dishes and vaccuming, but the rest of today and tomorrow is all about family time!
Monday will begin crazy again....as always. Richard to work, Joey to school, Chloe down for her nap, work Ameriplan until Chloe wakes up, then lunch, clean up, playtime,housework, work Ameriplan for Chloe's hour long afternoon nap, Joey home, snacks, get dinner ready, Richard home, evening chores, reading time with the kids, baths, kids bedtime, work Ameriplan again, then it's time for me to go to bed.
Well, there's an update. I am so glad to have this blog. It really helps keep my thoughts in order, reminds me of my priorities, and helps keep those reading it updated. I hope you all have a great weekend! Enjoy the fantastic weather!
God Bless!
Salli
Our school buses were moved back to hard surface routes only, so that meant having to take Joey to and from school yesterday. Hopefully they will be back on normal routes Monday! Anyway, after picking Joey up at school, we can home. It was such a fantastic day yesterday, I just couldn't force myself to stay indoors. So, Joey got his snack and out the door we went! We spent almost an hour outside. Joey and the puppies ran around the yard until all of them were panting! : ) Chloe and I walked the entire yard, played with the puppies, and our beagle Kate. Chloe held my hand as we walked and had to stop occassionally to feel the grass, or dirt. I picked her up for awhile, and she had to feel the trees, the new flowers coming to life, and anything else that caught her attention! She had so much fun exploring, and I was having a blast watching her face light up every time she saw something new. It was so nice spending quality time with both kids. I am usually fussing about the house, or dealing with phone calls or text messages. I left the phone in the house so I wouldn't have an interruptions! We had a ball, and I can't wait to spend more time with the kids!
After our dinner of cold sandwiches,lol, I set in on cleaning the office! That room was knee deep from the door clear through! What a challenge that room was! By midnight, I had everything clean, and all but the filing done. Filing will be a project for later. I love knowing there is a floor, and desk in there! :D
Now, I knew the puppies would need some outside time before I called it a night. So, at a little after midnight, with everyone else in the house sleeping, I let them out. I got online for a bit. Boy, am I glad I did! I found the PERFECT curriculum for Joey! It covers every subject and outside of a$60 set of books, is totally free! It's called an olf fashioned education. It's exactly what I was trying to find. I have some printing to do, but it is very cut & dry and provides all the info I need to teach him right. It includes Bible study, math, language arts, history, science, reading/grammar, biographies, art/art composition, music, foreign language and more!
Well, after a few hours of sleep, I am up and on the go. Today's agenda includes: cleaning up the yard, mowing, Joey has a friend coming over, hoping to have a bonfire, and more quality time with my family. I do have a few yucky chores to finish; laundry, dishes and vaccuming, but the rest of today and tomorrow is all about family time!
Monday will begin crazy again....as always. Richard to work, Joey to school, Chloe down for her nap, work Ameriplan until Chloe wakes up, then lunch, clean up, playtime,housework, work Ameriplan for Chloe's hour long afternoon nap, Joey home, snacks, get dinner ready, Richard home, evening chores, reading time with the kids, baths, kids bedtime, work Ameriplan again, then it's time for me to go to bed.
Well, there's an update. I am so glad to have this blog. It really helps keep my thoughts in order, reminds me of my priorities, and helps keep those reading it updated. I hope you all have a great weekend! Enjoy the fantastic weather!
God Bless!
Salli
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Research, life and mind set...
It's amazing to me how many emotions you can go through in a short period of time. Yesterday morning, like most mornings, there was an hour long arguement with Joey to get ready for school. By last night, the moods had lightened, and he was back to the child I raised. We went with Richard to pick up his boss' racecar. Needless to say, I had my eyes on the weather. Having 2 kids who are both leary of storms, I did not want to be driving in a storm. We got there, and back before the storms hit. We laughed the whole trip, talked, and even had some serious conversation. Once we got home, the kids were wound-for-sound! Too much time strapped into the truck does not do them any favors. So, until 9:30, they ran around like banshies. As they started winding down, Joey got online to check farmville, and we ended up laughing some more. Joey would be typing, and Chloe would basically stand on her head to get his attention. This went on for about 30 minutes. then she decided to get affectionate, and would start giving Joey kisses to get his attention. Needless to say, all I could say was "AWWWW". Well, all the cuteness over, Joey was sleeping, and then the evening battle with Chloe to go to sleep. After 30 minutes of her screaming...she finally gave up. By this point the storms were here and Joey was awake again!
Well, fast forward to this morning, and it's still raining/storming. I spent about 2 hours last night doing more research on Joey's homeschooling. I am amazed and a bit intimidated by the vast information on the subject. I have found 2-3 programs for each subject, and just have to make the final decision before June. We will begin his 4th grade year on July 1st. I know we are going to have some adjustments to make and some massive organization....but I am ready to tackle this adventure head on!
Richard's schedule gets more full by the day. The local farmers are trying to get in the fields, so all the repairs fall on his shoulders. That business along with doing the mechanic work on the race car, helping me get the garden ready to plant, the kids and the dogs...keeps him out of trouble! : )
As I sit here typing this, I am realizing how much I love to write! I used to sit and write for hours...on every possible subject! I have gotten away from that, I guess "because it takes too much time!" Well, this blog will force me to write something every little bit.
I am honestly looking forward to May 26th, when Joey will be out of school. I have so many things I want to do with both kids, and there never seems to be enough hours in the day. I guess it's time to start prioritizing a little differently. The housework can wait till a rainy day. The dishes may have to wait till morning, laundry will still be there when I get around to it. Sweeping, mopping, vaccuming, and dusting won't do itself either. My kids are growing and changing so fast, their childhoods won't wait for my busy work to pass.
God Bless,
Salli
P.S. Sending prayers my family members, and my Great-Grandma Mann. Grandma passed on yesterday morning. Another prayer for one of my Mother-In-Laws. Judy is being transfered this morning to Blessing Hospital from chest pains.
Well, fast forward to this morning, and it's still raining/storming. I spent about 2 hours last night doing more research on Joey's homeschooling. I am amazed and a bit intimidated by the vast information on the subject. I have found 2-3 programs for each subject, and just have to make the final decision before June. We will begin his 4th grade year on July 1st. I know we are going to have some adjustments to make and some massive organization....but I am ready to tackle this adventure head on!
Richard's schedule gets more full by the day. The local farmers are trying to get in the fields, so all the repairs fall on his shoulders. That business along with doing the mechanic work on the race car, helping me get the garden ready to plant, the kids and the dogs...keeps him out of trouble! : )
As I sit here typing this, I am realizing how much I love to write! I used to sit and write for hours...on every possible subject! I have gotten away from that, I guess "because it takes too much time!" Well, this blog will force me to write something every little bit.
I am honestly looking forward to May 26th, when Joey will be out of school. I have so many things I want to do with both kids, and there never seems to be enough hours in the day. I guess it's time to start prioritizing a little differently. The housework can wait till a rainy day. The dishes may have to wait till morning, laundry will still be there when I get around to it. Sweeping, mopping, vaccuming, and dusting won't do itself either. My kids are growing and changing so fast, their childhoods won't wait for my busy work to pass.
God Bless,
Salli
P.S. Sending prayers my family members, and my Great-Grandma Mann. Grandma passed on yesterday morning. Another prayer for one of my Mother-In-Laws. Judy is being transfered this morning to Blessing Hospital from chest pains.
Monday, April 5, 2010
The beginning
Well, here we go. I think I am the only person that hasn't begun blogging yet. I have no idea what I am doing, and not even sure if/when this will get posted. I decided to create this blog for family, friends, and those yet to become friends.
Those who know me, know my story. For those that do not, here is a quick nutshell, version.
I was born & raised 60 miles Southwest of Chicago. At 25, I packed my belongings into a dodge omni, and took off to find my own way in Northeast Missouri. I didn't know anyone here, not did I have a clue of the undertaking I was in the process of creating. After a short time here, I met Richard. A local country boy, who spoke his mind, didn't have much tact, and for whom I had never met anyone like! We dated for just over a year before getting married. Shortly after we found out we were going to have our first child. Joey was born, and a year later I had a bout with cervical cancer. 8 years later....still cancer free! : ) We knew we would not be able to have more children after my surgery. We were happy with Joey and had adjusted to life as we knew it. We struggled with every imaginable issue that a marriage has. Even some, that I reluctantly have to say are my personal issues. We divorced and got remarried, moved, and eventually have gotten on an even keel. In September of 2008, we found out we were going to be parents again. To our surprise, we had gotten pregnant, against all odds. In March of 09, our daughter Chloe was born. Perfectly healthy, beautiful and a wonderful...yet surprising addition to our family. We have relearned a lot about infants, and babies. We have, yet again, readjusted our lives to meet the needs and demands of our kids. Recently, we have found our local school district having problems that is and will continue to effect our kid's education. After a lot of research, we have decided to home school our oldest. Through all of this, I continue working from home for a health benefit company and even taking time off work, I still get paid! Our new venture into homeschooling has me a little intimidated but I know that it is best. I have a great group of support, curriculum ideas, and plenty of intelligence o get the job done right!
I hope you enjoy reading the posts as they are posted about my crazy life. Crazy and wonderful...these are the days of my life! ;)
Those who know me, know my story. For those that do not, here is a quick nutshell, version.
I was born & raised 60 miles Southwest of Chicago. At 25, I packed my belongings into a dodge omni, and took off to find my own way in Northeast Missouri. I didn't know anyone here, not did I have a clue of the undertaking I was in the process of creating. After a short time here, I met Richard. A local country boy, who spoke his mind, didn't have much tact, and for whom I had never met anyone like! We dated for just over a year before getting married. Shortly after we found out we were going to have our first child. Joey was born, and a year later I had a bout with cervical cancer. 8 years later....still cancer free! : ) We knew we would not be able to have more children after my surgery. We were happy with Joey and had adjusted to life as we knew it. We struggled with every imaginable issue that a marriage has. Even some, that I reluctantly have to say are my personal issues. We divorced and got remarried, moved, and eventually have gotten on an even keel. In September of 2008, we found out we were going to be parents again. To our surprise, we had gotten pregnant, against all odds. In March of 09, our daughter Chloe was born. Perfectly healthy, beautiful and a wonderful...yet surprising addition to our family. We have relearned a lot about infants, and babies. We have, yet again, readjusted our lives to meet the needs and demands of our kids. Recently, we have found our local school district having problems that is and will continue to effect our kid's education. After a lot of research, we have decided to home school our oldest. Through all of this, I continue working from home for a health benefit company and even taking time off work, I still get paid! Our new venture into homeschooling has me a little intimidated but I know that it is best. I have a great group of support, curriculum ideas, and plenty of intelligence o get the job done right!
I hope you enjoy reading the posts as they are posted about my crazy life. Crazy and wonderful...these are the days of my life! ;)
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