Social Network Christmas

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Greatest Gift

It seems like I just got back from Florida (and still have yet to blog about most of my adventures!) and yet we are turning around and going back next week! This time we will be doing the road trip.. aka.. 2 1/2 days of travel down, 2 full days coming back. I know some of you may think that's silly.. why not just fly.. but when you factor, air fare, renting a vehicle, shipping Christmas gifts to and from Florida, it just made more sense to drive.

The last few weeks have been hectic. My poor husband has had severe bronchitis to the point where his ribs hurt and, if he has the misfortune of laughing, it just sends him into a coughing frenzy. He's been on almost every medication known to man and is finally getting some of his strength back.

Chris is excited about next week, although he is not thrilled that he will be missing 1 1/2 days of school (he seriously LOVES school). It's such a blessing to have a little boy and I'm so in awe of how God uses him to show me things. A few months ago, the kids at church were asked if they wanted to participate in the upcoming Christmas program. At first, Chris was excited.. he is a total ham when he sings with the kids choir and Steve and I grew up doing Christmas programs so we thought this would be great... a rite of passage so to speak. So, he went to the first couple of rehearsals and then he announced that he didn't want to be in the play. My first reaction was of course you are going to be in the play.. you started rehearsing.. some of your friends are in it.. .Mommy and Daddy grew up doing these.. it will be fun! He let it go for a few days, and then he approached us again. It wasn't that he didn't want to be in the show as much as it was that they practiced for the program during children's church so every Sunday he was missing out on the bible lessons, play time, craft, snack, etc. What a little sweet heart. So, I told him, that if being in children's church each Sunday was more important to him than he didn't have to be in the program. I thought how blessed I am to have a son who seeks to have the word of God poured into him each Sunday... and that he doesn't want anything in his life to interfere with that. My husband has been asking me what I want for Christmas this year, but I think I already got it....

Cell Phone

While I am on my cell phone talking to my sister, my son has the following conversation with me:

"Mom, I need a cell phone"
"What for?"
"You know.. to talk to people. This phone you gave me doesn't work" (we had given him our old cell phones).
"But you are only six."
"I"m six and a half!"
"Well I don't know any first graders that own a real cell phone"
"I could be the first!"

I don't think so.......

Who Do You Know??

For those of you who are Facebook users, there's a section that has a friend finder called "People You May Know." The premise is that because you are friends with "Susie", you may also be friends with "John" who is a friend of Susie. Kind of like the six degrees of separation.

Well, this morning I had quite the chuckle because the list of people my husband may know on facebook had quite the cast of characters. His section has tons of politicians, movie critics, movie stars, local and national news anchors, reporters (i.e. Al Roker), singers (Thalia - who is married to Tommy Mattola), etc. Who's in my list of People I May Know? Beats Me!! 95% are people I've never seen or heard of.. and the ones I recognize are the mailman, the garbage man, the guy who pumps gas, the hunter down the street who had a dead bear strapped to the back of his pick-up... Just kidding about my list, but I totally get the sense that Steve & I are running in very different social circles on the work front. Let's just say last Friday he was working a concert with Casting Crowns in our church, and I was with Christopher at a Happy Birthday Jesus party surrounded by puppets.

Guess that's what makes us such a good match.!

8 Years Ago!

On a crisp, cold and snowy day, very much like the one we are having today, my boyfriend, (now) husband, took me out on a date... we had dinner, watched a movie, and then we went for a leisurely drive to Boulevard East where you can really see the NYC skyline. It was there that he handed me 3 dozen roses which he had hiding in the trunk, dropped to one knee in the snow and asked me to marry him. Thanks, Steve, for choosing me! I love you!!

Heart Breaker

Today I found out I am the worst mom ever... I am responsible for breaking the hearts of at least one first grader... possibly more to come.

Yesterday on the drive to school, Christopher expressed concern over his loose tooth. It has been getting really wobbly and he was anxious about having it fall out while at school. Nothing is worse then losing a tooth at school because he's afraid that 1) it will fall out and he won't know that it fell out and therefore have no tooth to bring home which means 2) the tooth fairy will not come. He was going on and on and on and for a while I just came up with all sorts of scenarios about what to do if your tooth fell out... that the tooth fairy will still deliver money, etc. But then, I thought... is it really worth it to continue to let him believe in this tooth fairy? Then the light bulb came on... just COME CLEAN! Tell him the truth! The Truth Will Set You Free!

So, I did it... I looked at him in the rear view mirror as we approached his school and broke the news to him. "Honey... the tooth fairy actually lives in our house."

"She DOES!?????????"
"Yes... she is part of our family. The tooth fairy is actually me & Dad"
"WHAT!?!?!? But you don't have WINGS!!!!!" "You don't fly... you are not a fairy."
"I know.. it's just all pretend."
".................(silence).................... "oh"
...................(silence)..................
"What about the other kids? Do they have tooth fairies?"
"No..it's their mom and dads... but you can't tell them.. it's a secret until their mom's and dad's tell them. Ok?!?!? "
"OK"
"Love you, buddy!"

And off he went. I felt great about coming clean... that was until he announced to me this morning that his best friend Peter lost a tooth at school yesterday. Me -"You didn't tell him about the tooth fairy, did you!?!????!? "
"Yes.. I told him it was his Mom"
"But it was A SECRET!!!!"
"But he should know!"

I tried to explain that it was up to his mom and dad to tell him... for all I know this kid ran home and told his mom that I am to blame... the whole first grade may know that the tooth fairy is a fraud by 3pm today. Let's see what kind of fallout I receive later this week.

Wait till he finds out about Santa!!

The Trip

Had a wonderful Thanksgiving... spent Thanksgiving Day with Shirley, Dad M, Ruben & Jonathan down in South Jersey.... if you have never experienced Puerto Rican cooking on a holiday, I hate to tell you, but you are truly missing out. I would eat Pernil (pork roast) over turkey any day of the week. All I can say is that I was blessed in more than one way when I married into this awesome family!

So, after stuffing myself on Thanksgiving, we traveled home and got a few hours sleep before heading to the airport. We had a pretty good flight (meaning that I only had to squeeze the life out of my husband's arm about 3 or 4 times because of turbulence). When we arrived, it was a wonderful reunion. We had Thanksgiving dinner and the kids were in the pool. You've got to love being able to swim during November in Florida.

More stories and pictures to come over the next couple of days. I snapped this picture while we were driving up to my sister's house one morning and thought it was great! If you can't read the print, it is Jeremiah 29:11.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Praying God's continued blessings on each of you and your families. Enjoy this special day and give thanks for God's faithfulness yesterday, today and FOREVER! Enjoy this classic Michael W Smith song

Ahhhhh

Well, the good news is I found a dentist today and he was able to take me this morning. I had a cracked tooth that he was able to fill in and then I'll have to go back before Christmas to have a crown put in. Fun times my friends!

Managed to go to the supermarket and got all my ingredients for my pies, made a ton of returned phone calls and emails and feeling much better about things in general. I packed like a maniac last night.. luckily going to Florida means shorts, t-shirts and bathing suits. Anything else you need you can just pick up - at least that's my philosophy.

Well - off to tackle a few more errands before little guy is home from school and then finishing my evening with a trip to get my annual mammogram -- the perfect ending to a "dull" day. I guess that mammogram will get me more comfortable and ready for the full body pat down I'm going to receive at Newark Airport later this week. Ha Ha

S-T-R-E-S-S

I have a lot to be stressed about... way too much to do - not even sure why I am sitting here and blogging, and yet here I am. So many good things happening this week... thanksgiving and spending time with my husband's family, and then off to visit with my family for a few days in Florida. I know that by Thursday and Friday of this week, the stress I am feeling at this very moment will be just a memory... if I can just tackle one day at a time it will all be ok.

So, here's just a glimpse into what's happening:
- Today a cavity or cap, fell out and I have a gaping hole in the back of one of my teeth... not good 4 days prior to Thanksgiving! Oh, and we switched dental plans and have to hunt down a dentist in the next 24 hours.
- I am room parent and am organizing my son's Thanksgiving Party, craft, snack, etc. Can someone shoot me for picking a craft where I have to draw/cut out 180 leaves!? And no, we don't have enough time during the party to just let the kids do it.
- My dryer died last week... the good news is that I haven't had to do laundry the last few days... the bad news... I almost have to climb over the laundry pile in my bedroom to get into bed.
- Good news - a new dryer is being delivered Tuesday.. just in time for me to wash some clothes before packing for Florida.
- Pies, pies, pies! I LOVE to bake so the highlight of my Thanksgiving is making the desserts. On tap for this Thursday is homemade apple pie, pumpkin pie and a special request from one of my nephews, red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. A special note to my family... I am sorry to announce that the leftovers of said pastries will not be heading to Florida with me.

So -- quite a lot happening, but I am thankful for it all. I am thankful for a sound mind, for a Savior who loves me, provides for me and never leaves. He knows my frustrations and is walking beside me.

Hope to update you all as the week goes on.

Kid Stuff

"Mom!" "Mom!" I rolled over to look at the clock to see that it was 4:00 am. "Mooooommmm!" I dragged myself out of bed and into my son's room to see what was wrong. He had been home sick 2 days last week with a stomach virus from which he has finally recovered. I was just praying he wasn't getting sick again.

"What is it, Chris?"
"The tooth fairy came!" Oh yes... last night he lost his third tooth and he excitedly and expectantly placed it under his pillow last night. Thankfully, the tooth fairy remembered to do her job and left a little something for my lil guy.
"I'm so happy she did, honey. How much did she leave? "
"Well.. can I turn my light on to count it?"
"No! It's 4 AM!"
"I'll just feel the coins and figure it out"
"Sounds good to me... next time just tell Mommy when you wake up.. not at 4:00 am."

Thankfully he fell back to sleep right away.. Unfortunately the tooth fairy can't say the same.

Cookie Class

Last night my hubby blessed me by coming home from work early so I could attend a 3 hour baking class where my friend, Melissa, is the owner/pastry chef. I L-O-V-E to bake and have wanted to do this for a long time. Last night's class was on Christmas Cookies... we made 3 types - the infamous sugar cookie, peppermint cookie (they look like candy canes) and sugar plums. We made all the dough, decorated like pros and of course sampled the fruit of our labor. It was great! I learned so much! And can I just say, that I love icing cookies!!

I had planned on showing pictures, but we've pretty much devoured what I brought home. Nothing made me happier then when Chris said to me today "thanks mom for making these yummy cookies - they are just so delicious!" I'll be sure to snap some shots when I make another batch for Christmas... I'll have to do it quickly before they disappear again!

We Did It!

Made it successfully through our first sleepover. I'm exhausted, but have a very happy boy this morning (for those wondering... we have no school today or tomorrow and that's how I was able to do a sleepover in the middle of the week).

This song has been in my head the last two days so thought I would share it. It's called "You are God Alone ".... although I didn't link the kids Shout Praise version of this song, it is one of my favorites.

Coming Of Age

Tonight Chris is having his first sleepover. I've put it off since he is only 6 but he and his buddy have been asking me and the other mom for the longest time and we finally agreed. So.... Chris' little friend will be arriving around 6pm tonight and staying (fingers crossed) until tomorrow morning. I guess we'll have to wait and see how this all works out... I'm already exhausted because I am an insane mother who insists on cleaning before this little guest arrives (as if he will notice and if my house will even be recognizable by tomorrow morning!)

Road Block

Today has not gone as planned and, if I am anything, I am a planner. I have my lists, TWO calendars, my label maker, etc. I try to be organized and nothing gives me greater satisfaction then checking something off my list and having my day go according to plan.

So, right now I should be sitting in my Beth Moore Bible Study, sharing wonderful insights with friends and then watching this week's video. Obviously, that didn't happen. I was all ready to go... had my workbook and bible with me in the car so that after I dropped Chris off at school and voted, I would be on my way. And it was going great until I was a few miles from my house. Then there was a road block. Heavy construction... repaving roads. Single lane. No one moving... no one even crawling. No side roads to turn off. I kept thinking "if I just wait a little longer and then it would start moving. Maybe I'll just miss the worship part." Then time passed and I thought, "well, maybe I'll just miss the small group discussion." But after 35 minutes of moving maybe 1/2 mile, I realized that even if by some small miracle, the police man waved all the cars on my side of the road through, I would still be arriving at bible study well beyond the start of the video and it really wasn't worth the 40 minute journey.

So, as soon as I was able to finally get to the highway entrance, I was able to take some back roads towards my home. About 5 minutes into the trip home, I hit ANOTHER road block! By this time, I was thinking, "how come every plan I have today is not going my way!?" Luckily, I didn't have to wait as long at this road block, but it just really confirmed in my heart something about me and MY plans. Obviously, God has other plans for my day. And even though the plans I had in place were good and positive, even God-focused plans --- they weren't what he wanted or needed me to do with my morning. The whole drive home, I was thinking of all the other things I could accomplish on my list when I got here. And while I was mentally reworking "my plan", I felt the Lord impressing on me what HE wanted me to do this morning.... and I knew that He and I would have some quality one-on-one time with no interruptions and THAT is the plan he wanted for me this morning.

So, I guess I'm grateful for the road block that opened the path for me to spend my morning the way God wanted me to spend it!

That's What You Get !

I never liked Halloween on Sunday's.. just doesn't seem right. Especially when you walk into church on Oct 31st and your 6 1/2 year old turns to you and says, "Are we going to sing any Halloween songs this morning?

Nice...... I guess I should be happy he didn't ask to wear his batman costume to children's church.

Dancing With The Stars

My husband was playing a Beethoven/Salsa clip that he found on Facebook. While sharing it with us, he broke into a little impromptu dance. I guess Chris was impressed with his coordination, moves and musicality which made him wonder if he was a musician... however, the question that he came out with was "Dad, are you a magician?" We had a good long laugh and then I said "Yes... he is a magician and maybe if we turn off the music he'll make the dancing disappear."

Breast Cancer Controversy

There has been a ton of "buzz" in our school district regarding breast cancer awareness these last few weeks. Apparently, there are some retailers who are selling "I Love Boobies" bracelets. In general, there are several organizations who make bracelets available for purchase and a portion of the proceeds goes to that charity or organization. The problem with this particular bracelet is that, while it is supposed to be worn in support of breast cancer research, etc., the children sporting them (as young as 7 and 8) are obviously wearing them for other reasons (sexual comment). Call me crazy, but should a 2nd grader in my son's school be allowed to wear this bracelet?

I personally think the bracelets should just have the common symbol for breast cancer awareness, the pink ribbon, and let that be it. To have that phrase on it, to me, just demeans the whole purpose. Having lost a parent to this horrible disease, I take offense to it and really hope that parents pay attention to the bands your kids have on their wrists and have a heart-to-heart conversation with them about it.

To me, it's not cool for a young boy to have this band on his wrist (and to be able to wear it under the pretense of supporting a cause when the really is wearing it more as a joke - sexual remark). Don't wear a t-shirt to public school that has religious meaning behind it, but go ahead and wear the "I love boobies" band - that's just fine. Any thoughts out there? Do you think I'm overreacting or not getting mad enough?

Yogi

A few weeks ago, I was driving Chris to soccer practice, minding my own business, when all of a sudden, a HUGE black bear ran right in front of my car on this 2-lane road. I was thankful that he didn't run into my car and that my car wasn't going too fast so I didn't hit him. Chris and I just starting screaming --- AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH It was so random and so unexpected.... the closest I had been to a bear prior to this was watching Yogi Bear on TV... oh and Special Agent Oso for those of you with small kids.

I am so thankful for God's protection on the roads!

Heaven

Chris has been asking a lot of deep questions about heaven and what it's going to be like. Where do you live in heaven and more importantly, what do we do in heaven. So, I explained to him that we will be praising God and singing and worshipping forever. So, he looks at me for a few seconds and then comes out with... "And then what? When do we get to play with my Wii?"

These Boots Were Made For Walking

Up until this morning, I believed that there was no other activity more disheartening to a woman than shopping for a bathing suit or a pair of jeans. Both quests can make a woman have a moment of two of body image regret... (regret eating that bowl of ice cream, regret eating that piece of cake, etc.) Today, I realized that bathing suit shopping and jean shopping are a walk in the part compared to the dreaded "boot".

I went off to Marshalls this morning for some retail therapy and I wanted to buy a pair of boots. Specifically dressy boots (AKA -- boots that have no function in bad weather, are not waterproof, but boy do they look nice!) . There are so many different types of boots out there so I grabbed a mix of them (ankle boots, calf boots, knee high boots, etc.) First up was the knee high boot. I sat down and proceeded to pull them on. I had the zipper half way up my calf when IT happened.... I couldn't close the zipper! On the top part of my calf! Are you serious??? Now, call me crazy, but my calves have not changed size. (Thighs are a different story for a blog on a different day) I have not begun a body building regime so they are not muscular and super toned, but my goodness, it took me by surprise.

So then, I am reasoning to myself, that maybe the boots were cut "thin" or "narrow". You know.. if they have a "wide" shoe, maybe this was a "narrow". So, I grabbed a few other pairs, and while able to zip some of them, they just didn't look good. AT ALL. What is a girl to do? So, I guess once you hit 40, I'm best to keep the boots either at my ankles or slightly higher... no knee high boots for this girl.... I guess I better go shopping for a bathing suit or jeans to bolster my body image. LOL

Getting Ahead of Myself

I haven't even put away the summer clothes, but I have:

-Learned the words to almost every song in Christopher's upcoming Christmas play

-Purchased several Christmas gifts

-Researched airfares for our trip to Florida in December

-Updated my Christmas Card list

-Pulled out all my Christmas CDs

-Enrolled myself in a Christmas Cookie class at Cookie Crumb Productions, owned by my pastry chef friend, Melissa.

I think I'm a little ahead of myself, but I don't like frantic Decembers... I like everything in order and ready to go so I can sit back and enjoy those weeks... well, that's the plan anyway.

Why I Don't Like First Grade

Let me just say, life was simpler in Kindergarten. Everyone loved each other, they all shared, the world was a happy place. First Grade is the ANTI-kindergarten it seems. It's such a hard age... I remember being six... you learn a lot about your world and the people who make up the world. As a mom, I wish I could shield my son and tell him that everyone will love him as much as I do, everyone is always kind and that the world is a totally loving and happy place. Is it just me, or is it torture watching your child learn to navigate their way through the world?

So far, he's learned that kids are mean (for no apparent reason), that they will throw things at you and tease you just because they feel like it. He's learning how to fight his own battles and to make friends with kids that are nice to him and stay away from those who always seem to be in the "reflection" chair. He also just realized this past weekend that not everyone goes to church! I think he was SHOCKED when he realized that not everyone loves Jesus the way he does. He is growing up and I feel like I'm reliving all those childhood growing pains once again. It just means some extra time on my knees praying each day for him.

Boy, I miss kindergarten...sigh

Addendum: After talking to my concerned father, I should note that the reason why the kids seem so miserable is because they merged two elementary schools into one... so the majority of Chris' classmates are from the other school who are now trying to adjust to this new environment. It doesn't excuse bad behavior, but I truly believe things would have been a little different if they had kept the schools separate. Just my observation.

It's Been A While

So, what have I been up to?? The first week that Chris was in school, I spent my time cleaning and organizing.. not that you would know it and we are only a few weeks into the school year. Now, I am in the throws of running my business, running our home, being the Room Parent for Chris' class, bible study, walking with friends, soccer practice, soccer games, book fairs, etc. You get the picture. It's been non-stop but it's all good.

Fall just crept up on me and it's hard to believe it's time again to haul out the winter clothes. I hope with the Fall will come some more opportunities just to be home and to catch you all up on my life and blog a little about all that's happening in our little neck of the woods.

Got to close for now -- hosting 5 girlfriends at my house for coffee and some goodies. Promise to be back soon!

Kid Funny

Christopher is fascinated with all things number related: time, counting, adding, etc. So, I shouldn't have been surprised while exiting church on Sunday he hit me with, "How much do you weigh, Mom?" So, I did what any mother would have done in my shoes... turn the question around as quickly as possible. "Well, how much do you weigh?" He proudly announced that he was a whopping 48 pounds. "Wow," I said "Well, I can safely tell you that I weigh at least 10 more pounds than you do." "Ohhhh... cool" Hopefully that will satisfy him for a while.. LOL Let's just hope he doesn't ask me to get on the scale... better go hide it now

5th Grader

"Mom, are you stronger than a 5th grader?"

(Insert silence as I try to figure out where that came from)

"Um... what do you mean, honey?"

"Well... there is this game show called "Are you Stronger than a 5th Grader" on TV"

"Oh... you mean the show, "Are you Smarter than a 5th Grader... Not Stronger"

"Well... are you smarter or stronger?"

"I'm going to say both"

"I think you are definitely stronger, Mom"

Thanks for the vote of confidence....

The Doughnut Creed

"As you ramble through Life, Brother,
Whatever be your goal.
Keep your eye upon the doughnut,
And not upon the hole."

What a great reminder to be thankful for what you have and not what's missing!

Quote of the Day

My husband, Steve, walked into the house last night only to receive this greeting from our 6 year old...

"Hey Mom... your husband is home!"

Too funny!

Do You Hear What I Hear?

Do you hear that sound? You don't??? Get closer to your computer... closer...closer... Ok.. I'm messing with you.. There is no sound! (Did you seriously bend in closer? I bet you did!)

Anyway, the point is... there is NO sound in my house. Just my fingers clicking away on the keyboard. (My piano teacher would have a royal FIT if she saw how long my fingernails are!) Chris is at school... 2 weeks into his new school year.... 2 weeks into him being gone from 8:40 am until 4:00 pm. That's a L-O-N-G time for him to be gone and a L-O-N-G time for me to be home without the endless questions, the requests for food or drinks and to wear my hat as activities director. Don't get me wrong, I miss him.. it's too quiet. Although, I must say, my house is looking much tidier and, dare I say it ... I have some time to myself. For those of you who have endured the perils of having a child in 1/2 day kindergarten, you will sympathize with me on how brutal that was... 3 lousy hours was all you had. I was so FRAZZLED! I could barely go food shopping, unpack the groceries or clean a couple of rooms before I had to race to pick him up. It was rough. This year is a little easier. I can exercise (Not that I actually have yet, but I can when the spirit moves me) I can meet friends for lunch, I can browse in stores without someone tugging on me to look at the toy department.

Honestly, I think I am most grateful for the quiet time with God... it's not sandwiched in between brushing my teeth and putting breakfast on the table. It's actually quiet... and I can take my time... reflect and pray. What a concept!

Anyway, if nothing else I'm learning to be content in whatever season in life I am in. I was just telling my husband the other day that I really want to treasure each day we have together. Oftentimes the days just roll into each other and before you know it, our son will be in college. I just want to savor every joyous moment we have together as a family.... and while he's in school and my house is a little more quiet, I know that God will help me in using this time to not only better take care of our home and spend time working my business, but in using me for whatever purpose he has for me. So, whether you are still in the "frazzled" season of life with you kids, or are finally enjoying a little more "silence" during the day, take a deep breath and enjoy the day..whatever it may bring.

Nightmare

Chris woke up at 5 am crying... he had nightmare. He rarely gets them, so when he does, it's a big deal. Lots of crying, wailing, weeping, gnashing of teeth.. you get the idea. It only made me feel worse when I realized that I caused the nightmare.. .you see, I like to read books to Chris before bed. I pick one and he picks one. He reads one to me, and I read a bigger chapter book to him. So, last night he picked some Star Wars Clone thingy, and I read several pages about Droids, clones, light sabers, weird separatists nations, etc. He came into our room exclaiming, "It was so bad and loud..even my Star Wars Lego guys were scared!"















So, needless to say, there must be a reason why they haven't come out with a Star Wars Bed Time edition or Lullaby. IT IS NOT NIGHTTIME MATERIAL. I was firmly instructed by Christopher (and his Dad) that all Star Wars reading material must be completed way before sundown.

That's it... back to VeggieTales tonight.

Most Wondeful Time of the Year

Hope you enjoy this commercial as much as I do... it's from a few years ago, by Staples.

Waiting & an Answer

This is a follow up to my last post about Chris' prayer request... here he is waiting on the Lord so to speak...























Here he is immediately following the answer to his prayer (thanks to his Titi Shirley)

A Whisper & Prayer

This morning Chris walked into my bedroom and announced that on Sunday he learned that if we need something, all we have to do is pray to God and he'll answer the prayer. "Yes, that's right", I replied and then he dashed out of my room and into his. I peeked around the corner and saw him kneeling by his bed and whispering a prayer.

I ducked back into my room and moments later, Chris walked in with a big smile. "Mom, I prayed to God that he would give me a Lego set because that would make me really happy." "Aren't I so cute?" (and yes, he is)

Great", I replied. "Did your teacher also tell you what three responses God answers with?"

He looked puzzled, so I explained," Sometimes God says yes, sometimes God says no, and sometimes God says wait." "So, what do you think God's answer is going to be?"

"Definitely, yes", replied Chris.

Now there's some faith!!

??

Last night I posted on Facebook that my son asks questions... LOTS of questions. He was a late talker so we didn't get a whole lot of the Why? What? Where? How Much? etc. questions until he was older. Now that he is six and very verbal, my days are consumed with answering questions. If I don't answer, he just asks again LOL So, my throat is tired and my mind is ready to explode.

Today we are heading into NYC to take our friends to a cruise ship... would be nice to hop on board with them! Oh well.. maybe someday. Then we are spending the day in the city and hopefully taking Chris to the Central Park Zoo and the huge Toys R Us in Times Square. I'm sure good food is on the agenda too. Will try to remember to take a few pictures for you.

Tomorrow I have to finish my preparations for my dad's upcoming visit. He'll be with us about two weeks so we are very excited to have him come stay with us. I have lots of fun things planned for while he is here.

Have a great weekend everyone!

He's Got A Plan!

My son's new favorite TV show is WipeOut, where contestants are put through a demanding physical challenge in the form of various obstacles, designed to trip them up and land them in mud or water. He just loves watching these people attempt to go through the obstacles.

So, for the last week or so, he's mentioned to me that he wants to be a contestant. I told him he was too young, but that wasn't good enough. He wanted me to find out more information. So, I looked it up and here are the qualifications that I read to him just a few minutes ago:

* You must be at least 18 years old
* You must be a legal U.S. resident
* You must be able to swim
* You must be a California resident
* You must be fun, strong-willed, outgoing, and have a great sense of humor

"So, Chris, you only meet two out of the five requirements because you are not 18, you are still learning to swim and we don't live in California."

"That's okay, Mom, after we live in Florida (because he is determined for us to go back there someday and live right next door to my sister (and more importantly, her pool)), we can move to California! Ok.. so Florida, Mom, and then California."

He's got it all planned out... I hate to be the one to tell him that there is no way I'm moving to California just to establish residency for him to be a contestant on a show that will likely be off the air by then anyway.

Amazing Grace

Just posting a wonderful worship song... a nice spin on a classic hymn. Have a great day everyone!

Today's Chuckle

Chris was invited to a birthday party today at Chuck E Cheese's... my former pastor used to joke that the concept of Chuck E. Cheese came from the pit of hell -- a room of screaming kids where all you do is watch them go insane for a few hours and willingly give them money to do so. Anyway, Chris was so young the last time we went there, that he didn't remember any of it so he was really looking forward to going today.

Now, the closest Chuck E Cheese is easily 45 minutes away (which, I have concluded, is a good thing. During the whole drive all I heard was "How far to Chuckie Jesus? How far to Chuckie Jesus?" I said Christopher, it's Chuck E Cheese.. not Chuckie Jesus.. He didn't believe me until he saw the sign. It was truly a good laugh.

Sunday

So, yesterday turned into an interesting day. We arrived home from church and I had just sat down to finish watching a movie when I noticed what looked like a dark spot on our carpet in the area between our living room and dining room. At first I thought maybe Chris had spilled something so I went over to investigate. It was about a 12 inch area that was wet. I asked Chris and he said he hadn't been over in that area... his thought was that maybe my husband's shoes were wet when he came inside. We had a ton or rain that day, but I knew that was not likely since we always take our shoes off when we come inside the house. So, as I am standing there investigating the spot, a drop of water lands on my head. That can't be good... I look up and sure enough there is a 12 inch area of water droplets on the ceiling sheetrock. We are standing directly below the bathroom. Then I notice another, smaller area in the ceiling that has water droplets on it as well.

This is the part where I become thankful... what? Thankful.. Yes, thankful. You see, I was supposed to be in Dallas, but I was home instead. My husband was home. We weren't on vacation somewhere. We had caught this early. Not only that, but God puts people in our lives for a reason. My good friend's husband is a general contractor... who happened to be home and able to come right over with his truck and tools. He was able to get the sheetrock down, and we have a plan in place for fixing the problem. (Believe it or not a neighbor had a similar problem so we have to recaulk the bathroom!) So, I was thankful - even though this is an inconvenience... God still takes care of us.

Here's a picture of what our living room/dining room looks like now. And how was your Sunday?

Picnic In the Park

We decided to go on a spur of the moment picnic on Saturday. Living here in the mountains of western New Jersey, there is no lack of State Parks to choose from. So, we made some sandwiches, grabbed some drinks, snacks, picnic basket and blanket and took off on our adventure. We had done this one other time and had a great time down by the Delaware Water Gap. This time we wanted to stay a little closer to home. So, we picked a state park that is just about 20 minutes from our home. The mountain is so beautiful... incredible views!

So, we pulled into the deserted parking lot, saw about 7 - 10 picnic tables in this little clearing and that was about it. There was a little shed which looked way too small to even be a bathroom and absolutely not another soul around other than the 3 of us. I was feeling a little uneasy for no good reason at all. Maybe it's the New Yorker... you know.. going into "foreign" territory (aka a park) puts my entire body on full alert. (If I was in a NYC subway by contrast, I probably would have been fine - go figure!). Anyway, we walk over with all our gear to the picnic tables only to be greeted with a sign that was bolted down to the corner of the table. In big bold letters it said " YOU ARE IN BEAR COUNTRY!" There were 3 or 4 sentences underneath it that I didn't even bother to read... You had me at "Bear Country". Now, this wasn't a news flash.. there have been bear sightings in my own neighborhood and one was killed by a car last week not far from where we live. But do I want to have to eat my sandwich with the fear that Yogi is going to come scampering out of the wilderness to join me? No thank you. So, Steve & I looked at each other, grabbed our things and explained to Chris that we were going to have a different kind of picnic. (Thank God I have a husband who is from the city like me who understands what my limits are!)

Back to the mini van we walked. I opened the back, readjusted the chairs so that the back row of seats folded down to a flat surface, laid out our blanket and set up our picnic... that's right.. in the minivan... with the back hatch/door closed shut. It was like being in the park without having to BE IN THE PARK. It even smelled like the park because when we arrived at the park, I had doused each of us with OFF to make sure that the mosquitoes didn't attack us. We were prepared LOL.

We enjoyed a nice lunch while watching Toy Story 2 on my son's video player. I personally had one eye on the player and one eye watching out for Yogi. Although Yogi was not spotted during our time there.. I had a feeling he was close by (I watched too many horror movies in my youth).

Not sure we'll be going on a picnic anytime soon...well.. maybe at the beach.

Words of Advice

Here are some words of advice to the mother whose son's life I saved at the pool today.

1) When taking your child to the pool, it would be helpful if you, yourself wore a bathing suit. Although you looked stylish standing next to the pool in your Capri's, fancy heels and halter top, it wasn't exactly pool appropriate attire.

2) When your son is not tall enough to stand in the pool by himself, don't let him go down the slide without you being IN THE POOL waiting to catch him. (See Advice #1)

3) Don't count on all the rest of the moms at the pool to be keeping our eyes out on your son. I didn't see him in distress until it was almost too late.

4) When you need my assistance to save your son because I, unlike you, am IN the pool with my son, don't just point to me and say sweetly in a calm voice that your son is having trouble and he keeps going under... my advice is to either A) JUMP INTO THE POOL to save his life B) YELL LIKE A MANIAC and get people's attention.

5) After the life guard and I both went through great lengths to save your son, a nice thank you would have been appropriate...I'm sure the fact that you didn't get near else was because you were afraid we would splash you therefore forcing you to send your outfit to the dry cleaners.

6) After all of the above had transpired, Please, Please, Please, do not allow your son to go BACK DOWN THE SLIDE -- it blew my mind that you allowed him to go again forcing the lifeguard to once again jump in and rescue him.

7) My last piece of advice -- GET A CLUE! better yet -- stay home

Keeping My Mind Busy

I have been on an emotional roller coaster this week. I wish I could chalk it up to PMS and not having access to chocolate, or being on a diet which is making me cranky, but the truth is much deeper and more personal. I'm painfully aware that this was the week my baby would have been born. Trust me, I have given myself the pep-talks that this was part of God's plan and that he knows better than I, but did I truly have to see and be around a ton of babies everywhere I went this week? In the restaurants, in the grocery stores, etc. Just was a little more than I could handle... and I'm usually a tough cookie. So, you'll have to pardon me if I take a few more days to pull myself back together.

My sister, niece and nephew are arriving tomorrow for a short visit. I am so excited and I've been getting our house ready. It's been a great distraction -- family is always a good cure for the blues.

Christmas in July

So last night Christopher and I started putting together his Christmas and birthday list since both occasions are one day apart. He is at that age where every commercial he sees or every Target or Toys R Us flyer has something that he "must have!". So, last night while showing me another Lego set that he "needs" for his collection, I hopped on Target.com and starting his wish list. I explained to him that we could build a nice list over the next few months and then I can email it to all his Aunts and Uncles and Grandfathers so everyone would know what he would really like. He loved this idea and so it began. Of course I also explained that to make room for all the 250+ piece lego sets he is requesting that we are going to have to go through his current toys and make a few donations between now and then. Just WHERE does one put all these Legos?? Any advice from you moms with boys that are into building this wonderful creation with extremely small pieces? His bookshelf is near capacity LOL.

One Extraordinary Sunday

Today Steve & I celebrate the 8th anniversary of our "reconnection". We first met as teenagers and became friends. Then we lost touch for 15 years. Then, 8 years ago today, he walked back into my life.. and hasn't left LOL That's a GOOD thing. Here's a little recap that I posted last year that always makes me smile..

I just rolled my eyes after I heard this message on my answering machine over eight years ago...

"Beth, this is your sister... where are you?? You must still be at church. Anyway, it's Sunday night and I just spent the last 40 minutes talking to your future husband.... AND YOU KNOW WHO IT IS!!! Call me as soon as you get this message..."

Ok... first of all, for those of you who know my sister, she is very excitable, so you can only imagine the squeals of delight that accommodated that message. Secondly, I had no idea who she was talking about or what she was talking about. I was a single girl, living in Lancaster and relatively happy with where I was at with my life. I had great friends, a good job, I was active in an awesome church and was learning how to cope with my mom's passing.

So, after replaying the message a second time, I called my sister back and she rapidly and excitedly told me that at church that day she had run into a guy she knew from college, Steve M. It had been years since they had seen each other and after a few minutes of chit chat he asked how I was doing. Ruth didn't even remember that he knew me (she had introduced us when we were teenagers, we formed a friendship but lost touch once I went away to college). So, she of course mentioned that I was still single (thanks for the plug, Ruth) and living in Pennsylvania. She threw in that I often came to NJ to visit and that we'd all have to get together sometime.

Honestly, my first reaction to this was not very positive. "Ruth, I haven't seen this guy in like 15 years. I'm not the same girl.. I'm no teenager and certainly I don't look like I did back in those days." But she was determined. My sister enjoys being a matchmaker and was successful in pairing up several of her friends. Up until this point, the matches she made for me were anything but successful. One guy tried to sell me Amway products during the entire course of dinner. Thankfully, this was a double date with my sister and brother-in-law at whom I repeatedly rolled my eyes throughout that disaster of a dinner/date. Next up was a blind date with a guy that had a personality of a wooden door -- didn't crack a smile all night. It was painful. I definitely needed someone who can laugh.

Who would have known that eventually Steve & I did reconnect (much to my sister's glee!) I shared with you all last year on my blog about how God brought Steve and I back together through bizarre circumstances (I was living in NJ because of a stroke my father had suffered). Today marks seven years since that "reconnection" and we treat it like an anniversary. I'm so excited and, honestly, marrying a man who loves God, me and our son, was so worth the wait. We often joke about why we never dated as teenagers... how awesome it would have been to not have lost touch for those 15 years... but then we realize that God had a purpose in those 15 years. He used that time to make us ready to be the man and woman of God we needed to be in this marriage. God's timing is perfect.. always

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. "James 1:17

It's One of "Those" Days..

Today is officially an "off" day. My head just isn't quite on right or something. I had TWO baskets of laundry in my basement. One that I HAD JUST TAKEN OUT of the dryer.. AKA "clean clothes" and, the other, the much larger heap of dirty clothes. So, being so easily distracted by so many thoughts that typically roll around my head in any given day, I just put THE CLEAN CLOTHES BACK IN the washing machine. I honestly must have just put 7 or 8 shirts in... didn't feel that they were still warm.. didn't phase me at all until shirt number 8.

Sounds like I should call it a day. And how was yours?

Land of Make Believe

Even though this is our third summer here in Western New Jersey, yesterday was our first visit to the Land of Make Believe, a wonderful little amusement and water park located about 20 minutes from our front door.

We've known about it for years, but one thing or another always got in the way of us going there. But, with Steve having a day off yesterday and the weather calling for a scorcher, it seemed like the perfect time to check it out.

We had SO much fun. If you have kids under the age of 12, I think they would love it. For those who have never been, it's like Dutch Wonderland (except not as big). The park is really geared for toddlers (I'd say kids under 12... we didn't see too many teenagers there). The water park alone was worth the trip. Chris had a ton of fun on the pirate ship which had many slides and dozens of places to use water guns and other gadgets. They had another pirate fort, a huge wading pool which was great for babies and toddlers and at least 4 or 5 water slides (That's where the tweens and teenagers were). Something for everyone.

We did the amusement park as well - It was the first time we could truly just sit back and watch Chris go on the rides. We didn't have to strap him in or ride with him. He's tall enough to do most rides for himself. Made me proud and sad all at the same time.

I guess you could say that the only thing I was wishing for at the Land of Make Believe was that I could "make believe" time would stand still and that our little boy would always be six and having the time of his life!

If you've never been, check out their website

Change

Felt like the blog needed a little sprucing up so I changed the background and added a new quote to the top. I received this list of "Old Farmer's Advice" not so long ago. See if any of these may inspire you, apply to you or just make you smile:

* Do not corner something that you know is meaner than you.
* It don't take a very big person to carry a grudge.
* You cannot unsay a cruel word.
* Every path has a few puddles.
* Don't judge folks by their relatives.
* Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
* Live a good, honorable life... then when you get older and think back, you'll enjoy it a second time around.
* Lettin' the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier than puttin' it back in.

And then my new mantra... "Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God."

We are Back!

Just walked in the door less than an hour ago from our awesome vacation in Florida. Was a l-o-n-g day of traveling and was so happy to just walk in the door... then I was ECSTATIC when I remembered that I had spent the day before we left for our vacation cleaning the house from top to bottom. Nothing like coming home to a warm, inviting place and not a reminder of the usual chaos that ensues from day-to-day. Maybe I'll light a candle and take a bath... one last fleeting moment of relaxation before reality crashes on my head.

Vacation By the Numbers

5 -- Number of Days we have been on vacation
5 -- Number of Days it has RAINED while on vacation
4 -- Number of trips to get ice cream
4 -- Number of times we were almost hit by someone TEXTING while driving in Florida
3 -- Number of wrong turns we took to get to the beach
3 -- Number of people who fell off jetskiis in 2 separate incidents
2 -- Number of times the Coast Guard Police pulled my brother-in-law over for violations while jetskiing
2 -- Number of family members who cried during Toy Story 3
1-- Number of times a bird POOPED on my LEG while at the beach
1 -- Number of times another bird DROPPED A BONE on the beach umbrella I was sitting under!
Countless - number of memories we are making each and every day.

A New Era

It's inevitable that your child asks questions... it seems like we've moved from the "Why" "How" "When" section to the "let's ask the most embarrassing questions LOUDLY" department.

Yesterday due to a last minute play date cancellation, I was faced with the decision to cancel my much needed haircut appointment, or take Chris with me. If it was just a haircut, I wouldn't have been too concerned... 30 minutes tops. But, I knew I was getting some highlights as well so this was going to be at least 1 1/2 hours at the hairdresser. Not wanting to go on vacation with bad hair, I decided to reason (aka..bribe) Christopher to come along. Promises of a new video game for good behavior. He was sold.. I was scared.

He actually did relatively great for the first 45 minutes. I had a little bag of entertainment for him and snacks and he happily sat next to me (thank goodness there was an empty chair there) and asked a million questions about every part of my appointment. He couldn't get past the aluminum foil in my hair, or the big sink where they rinse out my hair and the big chairs with the blow dryers that come over your head. He was fascinated and wanted to experience every part for himself. He was convinced that he, too, wanted blonde highlights, a shampoo and a chance to sit under the big blow dryer.

At about the one hour mark, he was done being amused and ready for us to move on... to the Walmart next store to claim his reward for good behavior. He was sitting next to me at the big blow dryer and we were talking a little louder because of the noise of the dryer. There was an older women sitting right next to us getting a hair cut. I guess Chris had never seen a women getting a short hair cut so, out of his mouth to my sheer horror.. he loudly asks me "Mom, is that a MAN??? " I wanted the chair to swallow me up right then and there. Clearly it was a women... just with super short hair. I tried to explain it in a quiet voice not to cause more damage then was done.. but he kept saying. rather, yelling.. WHAT? What mom? I Can't hearrrrr youuuuu!!" Great.. you cant' hear me but the he/she getting his/her hair done certainly can.

Oh well. Just one of many embarrassing moments to come.

You Had Me At Hello

The minute we walked into the pediatric dentist's office... they had me. This dental office is like nothing I had ever experienced in my life. When you walk in, the check-in counter is on the left and the game room... yes, game room is on the right. Parents on the left, kids on the right. Pac-Man, Tetris (the classic huge video games) are the centerpiece of the game room with various toys and activities that keep the kids engaged until it's their turn.

Each kid picks out 3 items from the "menu". Kid-flavored floss, fluoride, toothpaste, etc. I wish I had a dentist like this when I grew up. The dental hygienist couldn't have been nicer and the kids are active, happy participates. There is no crying in this office -- kids just love to come here. Today Chris was assigned to the "Star Wars" room. I thought his eyes were going to bulge out of his head when he walked in there. Star Wars is his favorite (for now) and he was just blown away by all the cool spaceships, posters from the movies, light sabers, photos and movie memorabilia that they had in this room.

He did so well.. no cavities! On the way out, he asked the dentist if they had a Batman room because he likes batman too. (They don't).

Whoever dreamt up this office was a marketing genius. Totally suited for kids. Wish I could go there. They have a princess room for girls -- I could deal with that.

Trust

Came across this in my devotional the other day and thought I'd share...

Stoop-shouldered,
foot-dragging,
sighing
resignation
is not trust.

Real trust
bounces on eager toes of
anticipation -
laughs with pure delight
of knowing
in whom it believes--
rests easily
knowing
on whom it waits.

Lord,
so wrap me in the
knowledge of You
that my trust is no longer
in You, but
is You.

by Susan Lenzkes

Weekend

What a weekend! I thought completing kindergarten on Friday was going go to be the highlight, but boy was I wrong. On Saturday Chris rode his bike without training wheels for the first time! We are so proud of him.. just checking off those milestones one at a time. Realizing that my little boy isn't so little any more. Had a great time on Sunday celebrating Father's Day down in South Jersey with my father-in-law and family.

Today was our official first day of summer break and we have been going non-stop. Mini-golf, play date, library, food shopping, swimming. He's taking a dinner break and has announced he would like to ride his bike and play soccer after that. Someone is going to have to carry me inside later.

Today

Tomorrow is Chris' last day of kindergarten and they are having a big ice cream party (at 9:30 in the morning!) which I will be attending. Notice how I always seem to go to the parties that involve ice cream or food? Anyway... today is my last few hours of alone time before the summer starts. So... just to let my family know..

TODAY ...

.. if you need to find me this morning...

..... you will NOT find me at the following places...

....... in front of a washing machine or dryer....

......... ironing clothes.....

........... scheduling doctor appointments, paying bills, reorganizing a closet, drawer or pantry

............... at the dry cleaners, auto shop, post office or volunteering at the school...

No, for the next few hours, I WILL be....

... roaming around my favorite local stores, just looking, maybe trying some things on.

..... going to the most kid un-friendly stores just because I can go without fear of something breaking

......... sipping coffee or an iced green tea and looking at a magazine...

.............. just chillin' because I'm going to need to be well rested for this summer!

Now I better get to it because he has early dismissal today so that only gives me TWO hours to relax..So, enjoy your day everyone.. I'm certainly going to!

Almost.....

Every Wednesday Chris has to "share" in class. It's the modern day show and tell. You bring in a toy or special object, share 3 sentences about your item, and then pick one classmate to ask a question.

When we visited the Newseum in Washington, DC., my broadcast-savvy husband encouraged Chris to purchase a foam microphone as a souvenir thinking it would make a great item to share with his class. Well, for the last 2 months, that poor microphone was never selected to be the "special" object for share. Chris would choose his other beloved stuffed animals or knick knacks...always pushing the microphone off for another week. Well.. we are down to the wire. Tomorrow is his last share. Realizing that, yesterday he told me that he was going to bring in the microphone. At long last! I knew his father would be happy, but I didn't want to say anything and make it a surprise. Well... that whole theory got shot when Chris arrived home from school today and asked me, "Mom... do you think that Scooby Doo could pretend to talk into the microphone during share tomorrow?" "No.. .you can only bring in one object...either Scooby or the microphone."... let's just say that maybe Steve can bring the microphone in to work one day to "share" because it's not going to see the light of day in the kindergarten class.

Window Cleaner

I have a 6 year old window cleaner. He is standing on our deck with not just one, or two.. but three water guns. I guess it saves on having to run into the house to fill them. Now he didn't go outside with the intention of washing my windows... what 6 year old boy would volunteer to do that? He just wanted to squirt... but the problem was that every time he went in and out of the house, he would leave the sliding glass door open and, inadvertently, would squirt into our kitchen. So, I lovingly told him to close the glass door and aim at the windows. Then, lovingly suggested to take a paper towel and see how fast he could catch the water as it was sliding down the glass. See.. you have to make it a game! LOL

Of course that lasted only a few minutes.. .now he is squirting any fly or bug that he happens to encounter. Oh the joys of summer!

Torture

Do you remember the feeling you had when you were little and your parents told you NOT to do something? Maybe it was not to touch something delicate, not to hit your brother/sister, or not to push a button. Whatever the directive, one thing was for sure... the more you were told NOT to do it, the more you wanted to. Am I right? It was right there.. just waiting for you to act on it. Temptation almost.

Well, tonight I'm that little kid. Tomorrow morning I'm taking a routine blood test, but I have to fast 12 hours before the test. No problem, right!? But it's honestly driving me crazy. It's not that I'm hungry because I purposely ate a late dinner and I'VE BEEN EATING ALL DAY as if preparing my stomach for this 12 hour lull. You would think that I'm a contestant on Survivor packing on the pounds because I'm going to be stuck in the wilderness for 40 days with no real food to speak of.

I just have to wait these next 12 hours. But the thought that even if I wanted to nibble on something at 9:30 tonight, that I can't is so bothersome. It's like an inalienable right has been taken away. Am I overreacting.. absolutely. Should a PMS women be denied chocolate at the wee hours of the night... NEVER.

Needless to say, I will definitely be packing a snack in my purse tomorrow morning so after I have done the deed, I can go back to eating on my terms. See you at IHOP at 8:30 .

What's the Temperature?

The other day I pulled out Chris' inflatable pool. He hadn't used it since we lived in Florida, and honestly, he didn't even remember it since he was so little last time he used it. He had such a good time splashing around and jumping into and out of that little pool, that every day since then, he's wanted to go back in. Unfortunately, the weather has no cooperated. Even still, he didn't quite grasp the concept that if it's cold outside, it would be REALLY cold in that pool water.

So, every day one of the first things that he does, is turn on the TV and asks me to watch the weather. So, now I just leave it on the Weather Channel (probably one of the safest things to put on TV these days) and he watches to see what the temperature will be. He knows if it's in the high 70s or above, he can have access to the pool. Who knows, maybe he'll change his dream of being a librarian to becoming a weatherman. Either that or maybe he'll become a member of the Polar Bear Club... brrrr!

Vanity

Yesterday, Steve & I rearranged our furniture in the master bedroom. It is now nice and spacious and, best of all, I got my vanity area back! Hadn't had it since we lived in Florida. I was very excited this morning - took a shower and all the while, anticipating sitting on my little white bench and applying makeup and drying my hair in my little special area... just for me. You know as a mom sometimes there aren't many places in your house that you can declare are yours (well.. other than a kitchen or washroom.. I mean an exciting place.. kids free.. just a spot for you. This is MY spot.

As I pulled the white bench out to sit down this morning, you can only imagine my surprise to have 3 little Lego figures jump out at me.. two fell on the floor and one remained on the chair. I burst out laughing realizing how silly of me to think that our son would not explore this new territory and claim it as HIS own. Nothing is sacred people. Nothing..

Save The Date

Heard at my house yesterday...

"Mom.. I want a party to celebrate my 100th birthday"
"Wow.. that's planning ahead!"
"Yeah... I want to eat Pizza at Bensi (an Italian restaurant) and then have ice cream cake"

So, basically he will be celebrating his 100th exactly as he celebrated his 6th birthday minus the bowling. LOL

So, save the date people... December 26, 2103 Hope we are all still around to celebrate with him!

Field Day

Yesterday was my first experience with our school's Field Day. We had the choice of supplying food, equipment or volunteering our time to help out. So, since I always like to be at whatever events I can to see Christopher in action, I volunteered my time. The idea behind Field Day is that all the students and teachers are outside all day playing various games.. they move from station to station every 15 minutes.

Heat and I don't necessarily mix. For those of you who have ever had the pleasure of vacationing with me, you may have seen me suffer from extreme sunburns, heat stroke or almost pass out at the turtle farm in Grand Cayman (right, Sue!?) So, I was really concerned when I saw yesterday's forecast for 88 degrees. I loaded on the sunblock, grabbed my hat and stood outside in the hot sun for 3 1/2 hours. I was smart enough to bring plenty of water and a good friend gave me an extra chair she had so I could "rest" in between groups. Well, I got my station set up and my butt never graced that chair once! I had back to back groups and by the time the third group came I lost my voice from talking. See, I had the ring toss game and I was constantly chasing after the target (which was made on a shower curtain that wasn't taped down to the ground), redistributing the rings to the 4 teams and explaining the instructions, counting up points, etc. I talked non-stop for those 3 1/2 hours. I knew that I had to be careful or else I would end up with heat stroke yet again. The funny thing was, when I looked around at the other stations, all the other moms had easier games. They were chatting with the teachers, relaxed and not breaking a sweat.

It was all worth it when my son's class came through as my very last station. He was thrilled because both Steve & I were there (Steve and another Dad walked the course with the kids and the teachers).

Next year I'm volunteering to bring water and begging for an easy game.

Mole Doctor

Yesterday I had to go to the dermatologist, or as my son refers to her, "The Mole Doctor". For those to you new to my blog, you might want to check out this story about my last visit to the dermatologist. Let's just say that I spent the better part of last year looking like a block of swiss cheese.

As you can imagine, I DID NOT continue to go to that particular mole doctor. In fact, I was so scared of going back to any mole doctor that I've put it off until I stumbled upon a wonderful dermatologist that I knew I could trust. I actually met her because of my son who had a few moles that needed to be examined. Thankfully, he didn't need any of them removed, but during the course of the visit, I explained about the "Butcher of Chester" and she readily agreed to take me on as a patient.

I was extremely nervous. I prayed, read my bible and had my husband pray for me before I went. I just had so many visions of what happened last time that it was almost paralyzing. But, I put my trust in God and forged ahead with the visit. She couldn't have been any nicer, any more sympathetic and I DIDN'T FEEL A THING! She had to tend to 3 moles in particular and honestly, I didn't have to grip the table once... that says a lot.

So, I'm very excited that's behind me and I don't need to go back for another 6 months.

Can I Trust You?

Trust... do you trust easily? Or is it earned? Can you meet someone, immediately get a "vibe" from them and determine whether or not they can be trusted? I have to admit, that for the majority of my life, I was not a very trusting individual. I think 90% of that was because of the fact that I was raised in a metropolitan area where we were taught street smarts probably before I even knew my A,B,Cs. It's not that I didn't want to trust people as I got older, but I learned that I had to be around them for a bit, quietly observe them in words and action, form my opinion and then I can let my guard down and be myself.

When I first arrived at college, the administration had set up little small groups for all incoming freshmen. It was assigned alphabetically by last name and there were about 15 or so in a small group. I loathed these once a week get togethers. I totally felt like an outsider... city girl trying to find her way in the country. Totally out of my element and, at this point, only knowing 2 other people on campus that I could truly say I trusted. Friendships were just forming and it was going to take me time.

The leader of our small group was an upper classman and he announced one day that we were going to play the "Trust" game. Right then and there the panic alarms were sounding inside my brain. What do you mean, the trust game... I don't even know you.... don't even know what the game is but I already knew that this was not going to be pretty.

So, the premise of the game is that everyone is to form a circle and one by one we would take turns standing in the middle of the circle. Then we were to fold our arms across our chest, close our eyes and just fall back. Ummmm... excuse me? Just fall back... with my eyes closed... and trust that this 90 pound boy or girl to my left or right is going to catch me? I'd rather be thrown into the creek on campus.. or eat a vegetable (which is saying a lot!). So, one by one, the other group members cheerfully took their turns... totally trusting that someone would catch them and they would bounce back into the middle of the circle. And each and every one of them did. Even the scrawny looking kids were pulling their weight so to speak. Even though I saw this was sucessful and no one was falling, I still didn't believe it was going to work for me... I could not trust that I wouldn't fall. I could not trust these strangers! So, finally it was my turn. I got in the middle of the circle and ... FROZE... I closed my eyes, put my arms across my chest...but could not let myself fall back. Gripped with fear... not trusting in anyone. I started to fall back and when I didn't feel someone right behind me to catch me.. I shot forward to regain my balance and walked out of the circle and off to the side.

I think, in hindsight, it was the turning point for me about trusting people. Although I didn't succeed in the task, I realized what a problem this was. I can trust Jesus with my life.. can't see him, but I know he is there always. I just needed His help in learning to trust others. Not to be reckless in just trusting everyone, but to let the walls down. 18 years worth of walls needed to be chipped way at. I don't know if they are all down.. but I know I've made a ton of progress. It's much easier for me to form friendships and easier to trust (with caution).

I often wonder if I played the Trust game today if I'd be able to do it... I think I should give it a try.

June!

I don't know what it's like by you...but June always seems to be a busy month. Birthdays, graduations, last days of school. It's like squeezing 3 months worth of activities into 2-3 weeks. I was trying to schedule a little shopping excursion with a friend only to realize that every morning this week (prime time to shop when Chris is in school) is already booked with various things. Doctor appointments, meetings and other obligations are proof that my mornings of running errands by myself are quickly coming to a close. Don't get me wrong, I have a bunch of fun things planned for us this summer, but oh how I'm going to miss a few stolen quiet moments each day.

Speaking of fun and summer... check out this website to see if your local bowling alley is participating in the "kids bowl free" program. Your child will get 2 free games A DAY! All you have to pay for is shoe rental. www.kidsbowlfree.com We took Chris yesterday and had a blast.

Red, White & Broke

What have we done this weekend? Well... hubby's car decided to smoke on Friday. It's in the shop getting fixed and then will be put up for sale. We wound up purchasing a car for hubby and new furniture for the living room (for those of you who follow the blog you'll remember that we sold our living room furniture at the community yard sale a few weeks ago). We got great deals so that helped ease the pain of making such big purchases.

As far as fun goes, Dairy Queen, mini golf, bowling and a surprise invite to my cousin's house for a BBQ rounded out the excitement. We went to our small town's Memorial Day Parade which, I must admit, was really fun. It flooded me with childhood memories of the Memorial Day parades I attended with my family. It felt great to see Chris excited about the festivities. Of course we also were trying to explain to him the purpose of this important day. When asked what his favorite part was he replied, "the candy". Of course... who wouldn't love the candy that was thrown by the people participating in the parade. He honestly collected as much as he does on Halloween. Not a bad gig.

Hope you are all enjoying the day with family and friends and a special thank you to all of you who have served or are currently serving our country and for fighting for the freedom that we enjoy each and every day

Close Friends

The other day we were asking Chris who is closest friends are. He started naming several kids in his class and we were a little surprised by some of the people he was naming. Not that they aren't nice kids, it's just that he doesn't talk about them much or socialize with them much outside of school. When we asked why so-in-so is his close friend, he replied, "Well he lives near our house.. I'm naming all the "close" kids.. you know the once that are closest to our home" Bless his heart.. he was right.. we asked who were his closest friends.. and he listed them by proximity.. not closest to his heart. How cute.

BP - Bringing People together - Funny!!

Man, It's HOT

Today I remembered why I hated going to school in May and June. THE HEAT! Oh my word. Today I spent 2 1/2 hours in Chris' school helping with various activities. I don't know why I bothered to shower this morning, because I was dripping with sweat when I left there today. Stale, hot air... that's all that flowed through the school. It brought back memories of my own school days. Relentless heat and teacher's trying to get you to pay attention when all you can think of is a cold drink and a swim.

I don't know about you, but I'm staying in with the air conditioner on... with any luck I'll catch a nap (and another shower) too!

Field Trip

Today, lil' guy took his very first class trip.. .without me, mind you. They boarded the school bus and headed to a local farm... couldn't have been a HOTTER day for their outing. 90 degrees.. now I don't know about you, but the LAST place I want to be on such a hot day is at a stinky farm. Maybe me not being on the trip was a good thing given my outlook LOL.

Chris had a great time and is definitely tired from the adventure. A friend of mine knew I would be worried and thinking about him all morning, so she did what any good friend would do, invite me over and then we went shopping. Totally kept my mind occupied for which I'm very grateful.

I remember going to a ton of museums in NYC when I was in school. My mother must have really have been prayed up those days of us getting on a school bus and going into Manhattan!
Do you remember your first class trips?

Waffle...

How would you like your waffle? On the floor or burnt... because that's the only two ways I could make them one day last week. You know how it is as a mom.. you rush around like a crazed lunatic in those early morning hours doing 10 things at once.. combing hair, brushing teeth, packing a lunch, folding laundry, cleaning up a spill and trying to get breakfast on the table. The other morning I made myself two delicious looking waffles... topped off with butter, syrup and applesauce..just the way my mom used to serve them to me. I was so anxious to devour them that as I turned to put them on the table, one of them slid off my plate and plopped right onto the kitchen floor. Needless to say, that poor waffle wound up in the garbage. No problem... make another. Popped it into the toaster oven and I was off writing my to do list, making beds, checking emails, etc. When the toaster oven chimed to let me know my waffle was ready, I was so saddened to see that it was burnt beyond recognition. By that time, I HAD no time, so I ate it.
My husband came down and he suggested a bowl of cereal...

TGIF !

Another busy weekend... traveling to visit my sister-in-law for her birthday and bringing a wonderful lasagna and cupcakes to celebrate. Wish we could stay all weekend, but must travel home tomorrow night so the lil man can sing with the Children's Choir again on Sunday.

It's hard to believe that the school year is winding down. Next year it will be full-day for Chris... a big boy in first grade. Next week the kids are going to "practice" eating in the cafeteria so they get used to it. So many milestones going by too quickly. Going to give him a big squeeze right now - at least he still responds to those and squeezes back... wish I could bottle him up at this age. Love it!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone and sending special prayers up to my Uncle David today -- we love you and are praying for you!

Sit Down!

So we are still without a sofa in our living room. My son brought up his little Pooh couch that he's had since he was a baby so at least he has a place to sit while watching TV. I moved one of our chairs from the kitchen to our living room so at least Steve or I have a place to sit should we need one. I guess we are going with the "less is more" look. Just not great for entertaining, so we are going to have to continue our search for a new sofa.

Chris loves shopping for sofas... he has now been to two furniture stores with us in the past few days and he is hysterical. He walks in, scopes out the place... must find the restroom to check that out, and then it's on to couch testing. He has discovered an inner passion for recliners... specifically sectional sofas with at least 2 recliners. Some have the traditional levers that you push/pull, and some are more up to date and have the little semi-circle levers that you simply just lift. He is in glory! He purposely wears easy shoes to slip in and out of so he takes off his shoes, plops on a couch and reclines. He is in heaven. Or maybe he just really misses having a place to sit in our living room!

Everything But The Kitchen Sink

Yesterday our community held a huge garage sale. They hold one every year, but this was the first time that we participated. At first, we didn't think that we had much to put out, but we found several items (baby gear, toys, an old TV, etc) and decided to put it all out to see what happens. So Friday was spent gathering items and tagging them, so on Saturday all we had to do was put them out and sit back.

Well, something unexpected happened on Saturday... I was expecting a few people here and there, but there are some serious garage sale hunters out there, people! They were coming in DROVES... looking and buying. So, the more we sold, the more I started thinking... what else could we sell. So, I ran to my bedroom and grabbed some old books - put them on the table and they sold. Next, I went through some old boxes in the garage that we hadn't tackled on Friday and found more items - put them out and sold them. Then Steve & I looked at each other and we both had the same thought --- the Sofas! Yes, we decided to have our neighbor come over and help Steve haul out our couch and loveseat. Steve has had this set for at least 10 years.. well before we got married. They look really good, but we were planning on buying a new set sometime in the next year. So, out they went.. and we sold them! It was the funniest thing... I had to explain to Chris what was going on.. he looked at me like I was crazy, but I guess a garage sale made me a little crazy. I came back into the house to "check on him" (aka - grab more stuff to sell) and he had taken the cushion from our piano bench and had it on the floor of the living room playing a game. It was hysterical.

Anyway, after the couches, I got a grip and just starting visualizing what I would sell next year. Other than the couches, we didn't sell anything that had been used on a regular basis. Mostly stuff that had been in boxes since our move from Florida. We don't have the wall space or counter space to display most of it and if it's been in a box for over 2 years, the likelihood of it getting used in the next 2 is slim to none.

We were so exhausted by the end of the day, but it was a great time. Chris was thrilled to sell a bunch of his old toys (and we were so proud of the fact that he was able to sort through his things and decide which toys he no longer needed).

Of course the first thing we did after the sale was jump in the car and start furniture shopping... no luck yet, but hopefully soon!

Upate on Dad

Thank you all for your prayers. Dad is doing fine. The doctors did not need to put a stent in and while they were examining his heart, they checked the other stent and it looked good as well. So, we are very thankful that he did not need further surgery today. He should be able to go to my sister's house later today where he can rest up for a day or so.

Again, thanks for praying!

My dad

Hi everyone.. just a quick post to request prayer for my Dad. He is having a procedure done at the hospital very early tomorrow morning and would really appreciate your prayers. The doctors are going to be checking for blockage in one of his arteries and, if necessary, will be inserting a stent.

I will update as I have more information tomorrow. Thank you so much!

Celebrations

In my family, it just seems that celebrations just roll one into another. The first half of the year is just packed with birthdays, anniversaries and the common celebrations like Valentine's day, mother's day, etc. We finally get a little reprieve around the end of June and then it picks up in November. This past week was not exception. Mother's Day and then Steve's birthday. Of course little man was still on the prowl for a gift for himself. On Mother's Day he lovingly wrapped his arms around me and said, "Happy Mother's Day Mommy.. I love you.... (insert pause) "Do I get a gift for loving you?" He's too funny... He just thinks it's all about him and usually it is LOL. That's what happens when you have one child.

We are having a great week... even if it feels like winter. I had just started putting all our sweaters away when we got slammed with a cold spell. I'd like to personally tell mother nature that we are over it...bring on spring and summer.

Hope you all had a blessed mother's day and that your families are all happy and healthy.

Food for Thought

Busyness

My devotional earlier this week was on busyness and I thought how appropriate since there is hardly ever a time when I don't feel busy. The author was cautioning the readers to not be so busy that you don't take time to get quiet before God to hear what he's trying to tell you. He longs to speak to us and to answer our many requests, but do we ever stop long enough to spend time praying and focusing on Him, or worshipping Him to get the answers that we are seeking?

The other day was particular busy for me.. my to do list was 2 pages long and I was overwhelmed. The last thing I wanted to do was return phone calls, but I knew I should. So, I dialed a friend who had left me a message and 2 minutes into the conversation, I was so glad that I took time out of my busy day to call. She needed a friend, a Christian friend, to pray with her over a particular need. I've been in her shoes when I've had days when a friend called me at just the right time, to utter just the right words, or pray with me when I needed it most. That's when I realized that there are some days when I'm busy and doing good things, but maybe it's not the right kind of busy.

I was really challenged that day to make time even in my busyness to listen to God's voice and to pray for Him to direct me to the activities that He wants me to accomplish that day. So, I'd like to encourage you to take a moment each day and ask God to direct you in the midst of your busy life towards the activities that would be blessing to Him.