TJ came home from school with a writing assignment that he got a A+ on. I sat to read it, and was pleasantly surprised! He has never written anything like this before. How fun to see the growth and talents of a child! Here is what he wrote:
5 Slow Minutes
It was the most miserable 5 minutes in my 13 years that I remember! That Friday had nothing wrong with it until the shredding sound of an electric guitar started playing, a prism started dancing in my pocket, and a bead of sweat racing across my cheek. I knew I was standing on a mousetrap coming to snap me to the ground.
She looked over to me, as Mrs. Tobar always finds out about who did what in class. She took her choice of steps carefully towards me as if she were a lion stalking its prey, I thought to myself, sweating like a beast, yet the skin was colder than the frostbitten winters!
Once she was done stalking over, she put out her claw to reach for the source of the music. I took out the prism, handed it to her, and watched it fade away into her desk. 2:50! I left school without a phone.
I love to write and it's very exciting to read the work of my own son as he learns the skill of using words. Very exciting indeed! I can't wait to read other pieces he comes up with.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Children
I was more than pleased, when, at this last General Conference, a talk was given on the topic of children. Having as many children as we do, can cause quite a stir when going out into public. You can watch as people start counting the crew we have in tow. Their eyes grow wide and usually a comment is made such as this, "WOW! You've got your hands full!" Do ya really think so, I think sarcastically to myself as I plaster a smile on my face and say, "Yes we do!" At times my response is genuine and at others I'm simply frustrated and disgusted with people. That's when I hear in my head a quote from a comedian, "Here's your sign!" Of course it's hard to have a large family, but the blessings far outweigh the negatives!
In a world where so many people either choose not to have children, have only 2 or 3, or can not have children of their own, we are scrutinized. I receive varying responses from so many. Ones who so desperately want to have children of their own,smile and tell me how lucky I am. And they are correct. I am so very blessed! Those who have asked..."What made you keep having more after 3?" make me want to smack them for being so judgmental. But I refrain and try to remember that they simply don't understand.
Since when did it become another's right to judge a person/family for their choices? That's where this conference talk comes in. It brought me peace and comfort and reminded me that what I am doing is good and right, no matter what anyone else says or does.
http://lds.org/general-conference/2011/10/children?lang=eng
Having children is a personal choice. If your choice is to not have children, that is your right. If you choose to have 10 children, that, again, is your right. Either way, shouldn't we all focus more on loving people for who they are rather than picking them apart and telling them what we think they are doing wrong with their lives?
Our Father in Heaven loves each of us. He wants us each to be happy. And he wants us to love one another.
Each day, I will try to do even better at keeping my thoughts/comments in check. If I don't want to be judged, then I should not judge unrighteously either.
May we all try to love one another more and become more like the Savior each day!
In a world where so many people either choose not to have children, have only 2 or 3, or can not have children of their own, we are scrutinized. I receive varying responses from so many. Ones who so desperately want to have children of their own,smile and tell me how lucky I am. And they are correct. I am so very blessed! Those who have asked..."What made you keep having more after 3?" make me want to smack them for being so judgmental. But I refrain and try to remember that they simply don't understand.
Since when did it become another's right to judge a person/family for their choices? That's where this conference talk comes in. It brought me peace and comfort and reminded me that what I am doing is good and right, no matter what anyone else says or does.
http://lds.org/general-conference/2011/10/children?lang=eng
Having children is a personal choice. If your choice is to not have children, that is your right. If you choose to have 10 children, that, again, is your right. Either way, shouldn't we all focus more on loving people for who they are rather than picking them apart and telling them what we think they are doing wrong with their lives?
Our Father in Heaven loves each of us. He wants us each to be happy. And he wants us to love one another.
Each day, I will try to do even better at keeping my thoughts/comments in check. If I don't want to be judged, then I should not judge unrighteously either.
May we all try to love one another more and become more like the Savior each day!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
General Conference!
I look forward to this time of year with excitement and with the hope that I will learn what the Lord wants me to learn from General Conference. I missed the first part of the first sessions today, but caught the second half. I am always amazed, though I shouldn't be, at how the messages speak directly to my soul, to the things that I need to hear and know. I love listening to Dieter F. Uchtdorf. He always seems to be blessed to say just the right things for me. I am so thankful for a modern day Prophet and Apostles who listen to the promptings of the spirit and teach us those things we need to know. What a marvelous blessing in our lives. Especially as we are surrounded, in this world, by so much that is not good and right.
So, after I ate and sorted my garage sale finds from this morning, I came back to the computer, in hopes that I would be able to listen to the first half of the morning session. Thanks to byutv.org, I got my wish!
Richard G. Scott spoke and oh what a wonderful message. He talked of the importance of scriptures and the divinity of the Book of Mormon. His message strengthened my testimony so much. My determination to make reading the scriptures a part of my daily life is strengthened. I read now, but sometimes it's very sporadic. I want to do better, be better and understand more.
Of course, listening to the Prophet of the Lord can't compare to anything else. It's wonderful. President Monson is such a great example of a good sense of humor. I love it when he speaks! The announcement of more temples that will be built reconfirms my knowledge of the truthfulness of the gospel. It is rolling forward! And blessing the lives of so many.
I love conference! I invite you to watch it. Go to lds.org or byutv.org to watch the sessions.
So, after I ate and sorted my garage sale finds from this morning, I came back to the computer, in hopes that I would be able to listen to the first half of the morning session. Thanks to byutv.org, I got my wish!
Richard G. Scott spoke and oh what a wonderful message. He talked of the importance of scriptures and the divinity of the Book of Mormon. His message strengthened my testimony so much. My determination to make reading the scriptures a part of my daily life is strengthened. I read now, but sometimes it's very sporadic. I want to do better, be better and understand more.
Of course, listening to the Prophet of the Lord can't compare to anything else. It's wonderful. President Monson is such a great example of a good sense of humor. I love it when he speaks! The announcement of more temples that will be built reconfirms my knowledge of the truthfulness of the gospel. It is rolling forward! And blessing the lives of so many.
I love conference! I invite you to watch it. Go to lds.org or byutv.org to watch the sessions.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Only 8 1/2 weeks left!
Only 8 1/2 weeks left to go until my due date! It feels as though the time is going by so quickly and yet so slowly...at the same time. So strange! The girls' bedroom is painted, the crib is set up, the dresser is full of clothing, the car seat is waiting for it's occupant, the bouncy seat is bright and clean. The name is picked out...Cassie Brooke Elizabeth Cantwell.
The only thing I need to find is a used infant swing. I keep telling myself that I have PLENTY of time...but time keeps slipping quickly through my fingers. Before I know it I'm going to be bringing home this sweet little girl and cuddling her in my arms. I had better get ready!!
It's amazing how much more tired I have gotten with this pregnancy. It's almost as if my body hit 35 and decided that it couldn't possibly have the same kind of energy it did with previous pregnancies. I nap a lot more that I used to. I am so thankful that I have been fairly comfortable so far. Up until the last week or two I have slept fairly well and moved around pretty easily. Besides the dreaded, awful, terrible, yucky morning sickness that loves to plaque me in the beginning...this pregnancy has really gone very well. For that I am truly grateful!
My mind is reeling with the idea of having 6 children. It seems so strange! And so incomprehensible! And at the same time I know that with the help of my loving Heavenly Father, we will be able to make this work. I have a lot of faith that with His help anything is possible. I just keep telling myself ... it'll all work out and I feel at peace that it will!
The only thing I need to find is a used infant swing. I keep telling myself that I have PLENTY of time...but time keeps slipping quickly through my fingers. Before I know it I'm going to be bringing home this sweet little girl and cuddling her in my arms. I had better get ready!!
It's amazing how much more tired I have gotten with this pregnancy. It's almost as if my body hit 35 and decided that it couldn't possibly have the same kind of energy it did with previous pregnancies. I nap a lot more that I used to. I am so thankful that I have been fairly comfortable so far. Up until the last week or two I have slept fairly well and moved around pretty easily. Besides the dreaded, awful, terrible, yucky morning sickness that loves to plaque me in the beginning...this pregnancy has really gone very well. For that I am truly grateful!
My mind is reeling with the idea of having 6 children. It seems so strange! And so incomprehensible! And at the same time I know that with the help of my loving Heavenly Father, we will be able to make this work. I have a lot of faith that with His help anything is possible. I just keep telling myself ... it'll all work out and I feel at peace that it will!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Chocolate Pudding
So along with pregnancy comes a whole lot of cravings. This pregnancy seems I am craving even more than I used to. I figure it's due to spending 2 1/2 years sticking to the Weight Watchers plan so that I could finally lose all the weight I have gained over the years. Now, because I can't "diet" I want EVERYTHING! Hehe! This could be a bad thing!
I am constantly looking up recipes online and baking for my family. They have asked that I don't stop baking once this baby is born. Something tells me they've missed the goodies I used to make all the time. :) I LOVE to bake...and that doesn't exactly go very well with a "life style change" like Weight Watchers.
Every couple of days the house is filled with delicious smells of chocolate chip cookies, snicker doodles, chocolate chocolate chip cookies, peanut butter cookies, no bake cookies, muffins, more cookies, and what ever else I feel like eating at the time.
Recently I decided that I really wanted some chocolate pudding but I didn't want to deal with all the artificial ingredients in the instant pudding found at the local grocery store and the all-natural products are extremely high in price. *Sigh* Therefore, I decided to search for a tasty recipe. And Hooray, I found it!
• 6 tablespoons sugar
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (slightly heaping)
• 2 tablespoons cocoa (heaping)
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 2 cups milk
Directions:
-Combine all dry ingredients in a small sauce pan until all lumps are gone and blended well.
-Add milk, whisk, and place on burner turned to med/high -- stir constantly until mixture thickens and begins to boil. Set timer for 1 minute and continue to stir.
-Remove from heat and add vanilla, stir well. Let sit for 5 minutes, stirring twice. Pour into serving dishes and either serve warm or chill in the refrigerator.
I never knew how tasty warm chocolate pudding could be. Now there's no need to buy that "stuff" at the store, especially when I can have something that tastes so much better. I can have chocolate pudding any time I want to! Empowerment! Hoorah! :)
I am constantly looking up recipes online and baking for my family. They have asked that I don't stop baking once this baby is born. Something tells me they've missed the goodies I used to make all the time. :) I LOVE to bake...and that doesn't exactly go very well with a "life style change" like Weight Watchers.
Every couple of days the house is filled with delicious smells of chocolate chip cookies, snicker doodles, chocolate chocolate chip cookies, peanut butter cookies, no bake cookies, muffins, more cookies, and what ever else I feel like eating at the time.
Recently I decided that I really wanted some chocolate pudding but I didn't want to deal with all the artificial ingredients in the instant pudding found at the local grocery store and the all-natural products are extremely high in price. *Sigh* Therefore, I decided to search for a tasty recipe. And Hooray, I found it!
• 6 tablespoons sugar
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (slightly heaping)
• 2 tablespoons cocoa (heaping)
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 2 cups milk
Directions:
-Combine all dry ingredients in a small sauce pan until all lumps are gone and blended well.
-Add milk, whisk, and place on burner turned to med/high -- stir constantly until mixture thickens and begins to boil. Set timer for 1 minute and continue to stir.
-Remove from heat and add vanilla, stir well. Let sit for 5 minutes, stirring twice. Pour into serving dishes and either serve warm or chill in the refrigerator.
I never knew how tasty warm chocolate pudding could be. Now there's no need to buy that "stuff" at the store, especially when I can have something that tastes so much better. I can have chocolate pudding any time I want to! Empowerment! Hoorah! :)
Monday, August 29, 2011
Monday Morning
Today is the start of the second full week of the school year. Last week was crazy and busy and the routine I had created last year has become discombobulated and unusable. Having two children in middle school has created much less sleep for me! Sleep...will I ever get any again...maybe some day.
TJ seems to enjoy middle school. His friends that he made last year didn't end up in most of his classes and he's a little bummed. But I found that he is beginning to create new friendships already. I'm so thankful for that!
Alex went to school the first day of 6th grade and was nervous. The second day he came home and told me that middle school is going to be a piece of cake! I laughed! That's fantastic! What a great attitude to adopt after only two days. He is already making friends and connecting with old friends and he seems to be enjoying his school work. I'm hoping and praying that will continue.
So, with two in middle school, I must wake up at 6am, roll out of bed, stretch and carefully make my way down stairs to pull Alex from his deep slumber. He is not the kind of kid who wakes up easily and is not the type who can be left to get ready on his own. I stand in his room and gently call to him and coax him out of his warm bed, watch him climb down from the top bunk, and groggily find clothing to take to the bathroom. I remind him that he only needs 5 minutes in the shower and that he needs to be quick because there are two more people who need showers after he's done.
I climb, legs aching and tired, back up the stairs, now breathing heavily thanks to the sweet little Cassie who is 27 weeks gestation. I make my way to the kitchen, trying not to drag my feet as I walk, my legs still haven't recovered from the morning climb.
The counters in the kitchen are almost never clean in the morning. Go figure. I wash them down and begin making 5 lunches, all in a row. Each child likes his lunch a certain way, with certain items in it. Todd is no different. He feels a sandwich is not complete if it doesn't have chips to munch on along with it.
I hear Alex turn on the shower and note the time. In a few minutes I'll be descending the stairs again to tell him his time is up and he needs to finish.
TJ is quietly eating his breakfast at the table while I continue making lunches....slices of cucumber in this lunch...crunchy carrots in this one...two cookies for each lunch...Oh! Don't cut Todd sandwich in half...he's not a child...an apple in this lunch...peanut butter and jelly for Max, ham and cheese for Todd...and TJ...and Colin...I hope they eat it all today. Hmmm...what have I forgotten? Oh yes...Max needs an enzyme in his lunch. I blink my eyes, take a drink of cool water and try to clear my still sleepy head. Deep breath. I can stay awake for this...I know I can. I better get out Alex's medicine and vitamins so he can take them quickly.
Alex comes upstairs...takes his meds and vitamins and gets his breakfast ready. Today Alex is focused and is able to make good choices and get ready quickly. Thank goodness. Some days I spend most of my morning reminding him to stop talking so he can eat and get ready on time. Today was much more calm. A blessing.
Alyssa wakes up and I pick her up, sit in the kitchen chair, and hold her while smoothing her blond curls away from her face. She is calm now. I can put her down and continue.
TJ is done with his shower and is ready to help with chores. He feeds the lizard...oh I hope someone will want to take her home with them soon.
I pack the lunches in the lunch boxes and stuff them into the back packs....I don't want them to forget their lunch today. I remind the kids to put on deodorant, brush their teeth, put on their socks and shoes...go tell Dad it's time for morning prayer...do you have everything?...Goodbyes and I love you's and they head out the door. Now it's time to get Max and Colin finished. Deep breath. I'm so tired. How do other moms do this? Give myself a pep talk...I can do this.
Get the kids sitting down to eat breakfast...get dressed...brush teeth...feed the dog...get shoes and socks. Todd says his goodbyes and I love yous...kisses and hugs and Alyssa gives him "berzerts" to send him on his way. Now it's time for me to get dressed and ready to take the kids to school. Alyssa's dressed...curly hair going in all different directions...flip flops are on her feet...dog is in the kennel...it's time to get into the car. We drive the short distance to the school, pull in front of the building, park and let the boys out. More goodbyes and I love yous. Colin races to the door. Max takes his time. I watch to make sure they both make it inside and I drive home. A sigh of relief...that part of the day is done. Now on with the rest of my day. Maybe I'll find some energy somewhere...Once Cassie is born!
TJ seems to enjoy middle school. His friends that he made last year didn't end up in most of his classes and he's a little bummed. But I found that he is beginning to create new friendships already. I'm so thankful for that!
Alex went to school the first day of 6th grade and was nervous. The second day he came home and told me that middle school is going to be a piece of cake! I laughed! That's fantastic! What a great attitude to adopt after only two days. He is already making friends and connecting with old friends and he seems to be enjoying his school work. I'm hoping and praying that will continue.
So, with two in middle school, I must wake up at 6am, roll out of bed, stretch and carefully make my way down stairs to pull Alex from his deep slumber. He is not the kind of kid who wakes up easily and is not the type who can be left to get ready on his own. I stand in his room and gently call to him and coax him out of his warm bed, watch him climb down from the top bunk, and groggily find clothing to take to the bathroom. I remind him that he only needs 5 minutes in the shower and that he needs to be quick because there are two more people who need showers after he's done.
I climb, legs aching and tired, back up the stairs, now breathing heavily thanks to the sweet little Cassie who is 27 weeks gestation. I make my way to the kitchen, trying not to drag my feet as I walk, my legs still haven't recovered from the morning climb.
The counters in the kitchen are almost never clean in the morning. Go figure. I wash them down and begin making 5 lunches, all in a row. Each child likes his lunch a certain way, with certain items in it. Todd is no different. He feels a sandwich is not complete if it doesn't have chips to munch on along with it.
I hear Alex turn on the shower and note the time. In a few minutes I'll be descending the stairs again to tell him his time is up and he needs to finish.
TJ is quietly eating his breakfast at the table while I continue making lunches....slices of cucumber in this lunch...crunchy carrots in this one...two cookies for each lunch...Oh! Don't cut Todd sandwich in half...he's not a child...an apple in this lunch...peanut butter and jelly for Max, ham and cheese for Todd...and TJ...and Colin...I hope they eat it all today. Hmmm...what have I forgotten? Oh yes...Max needs an enzyme in his lunch. I blink my eyes, take a drink of cool water and try to clear my still sleepy head. Deep breath. I can stay awake for this...I know I can. I better get out Alex's medicine and vitamins so he can take them quickly.
Alex comes upstairs...takes his meds and vitamins and gets his breakfast ready. Today Alex is focused and is able to make good choices and get ready quickly. Thank goodness. Some days I spend most of my morning reminding him to stop talking so he can eat and get ready on time. Today was much more calm. A blessing.
Alyssa wakes up and I pick her up, sit in the kitchen chair, and hold her while smoothing her blond curls away from her face. She is calm now. I can put her down and continue.
TJ is done with his shower and is ready to help with chores. He feeds the lizard...oh I hope someone will want to take her home with them soon.
I pack the lunches in the lunch boxes and stuff them into the back packs....I don't want them to forget their lunch today. I remind the kids to put on deodorant, brush their teeth, put on their socks and shoes...go tell Dad it's time for morning prayer...do you have everything?...Goodbyes and I love you's and they head out the door. Now it's time to get Max and Colin finished. Deep breath. I'm so tired. How do other moms do this? Give myself a pep talk...I can do this.
Get the kids sitting down to eat breakfast...get dressed...brush teeth...feed the dog...get shoes and socks. Todd says his goodbyes and I love yous...kisses and hugs and Alyssa gives him "berzerts" to send him on his way. Now it's time for me to get dressed and ready to take the kids to school. Alyssa's dressed...curly hair going in all different directions...flip flops are on her feet...dog is in the kennel...it's time to get into the car. We drive the short distance to the school, pull in front of the building, park and let the boys out. More goodbyes and I love yous. Colin races to the door. Max takes his time. I watch to make sure they both make it inside and I drive home. A sigh of relief...that part of the day is done. Now on with the rest of my day. Maybe I'll find some energy somewhere...Once Cassie is born!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Yum!
I'm not usually the one in our family who craves or even desires fast food. Once in a while, it's okay, but definitely not on a regular basis. Every morning as I drive my two youngest boys to school I pass by our local McDonald's. In this small town there's not a lot to pass...don't blink...ya might miss the town!
This morning the temperature was a nice comfy 75 degrees. I rolled down my windows and turned Taylor Swift up as loud as I dared...someone we pass by might not enjoy Taylor as much as I do! So, when we passed by McDonald's my nose was assaulted with the smells of breakfast. I forced my foot to stay on the gas pedal and drove on by. I don't NEED fast food. No one does, for that matter. Then a wondrous thought came to me...I could make my OWN yummy hash browns!
Once I got Lady Bug settled into my bed, with a cup of milk, to watch a show, I went to work. I peeled and grated 4 potatoes and set them aside. Then I went to work make my Mother-in-law's Buttermilk Biscuit recipe. I love love love simple and easy. And this recipe is just that! While I waited for the oven to heat up I began my search online to find the trick for making good hash browns. Here's what I found...the more moisture you can get out of the potatoes, the crispier they will be.
(Lady Bug came running in to the kitchen to see what the yummy smells were. She spotted the biscuits right away and said, "Oh! Biscuits!")
For the hash browns...first I tried pressing them between paper towels, but that didn't seem to work as well as I had hoped. Next I got out a small colander, placed it on top of a bowl and pressed the grated potatoes into it. This worked like a charm!
At first I had too much oil in my pan. I poured some out, heated it up and proceeded to experiment with the hash browns. Here are some things to remember: don't make them too thin on the edges, as they will burn there...make sure you only have a tablespoon or two of oil or butter in the pan for each one, and drain them on paper towels. There...I think I got it all. Pretty simple really.
Next I decided I needed some eggs. I prefer my eggs to be cooked over medium. Yes...for those who don't know me...I'm a wee bit anal. I like the yoke runny and the whites COMPLETELY cooked. I can't stand runny whites. Makes me feel icky. Anyway...I cooked my eggs and then thought ...this meal isn't complete.
I'm the type of person who likes vegetables any time of the day. No meal is complete, in my opinion, without either a fresh fruit or veggie. So, today, I finished this meal off with a cucumber, strait from my Dad's and Sister's garden all the way from Maine. (It's my last one...sniff...sniff) Now, some people would say, "You can't eat cucumber with that! It's just doesn't go together!" Well...I say there ARE no rules with cooking. You can eat what you like and what sounds good together...any time you want to! So there!! :) For those of you who believe veggies don't go with breakfast...break out the fruit. Again... I say there are no rules with cooking! Then again...I don't like to do what I'm told!
I'm no Rachel Ray...for that I am certain. But I like food...good tasting food! Who doesn't?? :)
Today I'm starting out my day with crunchy, crispy hash browns, tasty fried eggs, mouth watering biscuits and crunchy delicious cucumbers! Where did the energy come from? I have no idea. What I do know is that I can't eat like this very often or Todd will have to roll me into the delivery room in November!
This morning the temperature was a nice comfy 75 degrees. I rolled down my windows and turned Taylor Swift up as loud as I dared...someone we pass by might not enjoy Taylor as much as I do! So, when we passed by McDonald's my nose was assaulted with the smells of breakfast. I forced my foot to stay on the gas pedal and drove on by. I don't NEED fast food. No one does, for that matter. Then a wondrous thought came to me...I could make my OWN yummy hash browns!
Once I got Lady Bug settled into my bed, with a cup of milk, to watch a show, I went to work. I peeled and grated 4 potatoes and set them aside. Then I went to work make my Mother-in-law's Buttermilk Biscuit recipe. I love love love simple and easy. And this recipe is just that! While I waited for the oven to heat up I began my search online to find the trick for making good hash browns. Here's what I found...the more moisture you can get out of the potatoes, the crispier they will be.
(Lady Bug came running in to the kitchen to see what the yummy smells were. She spotted the biscuits right away and said, "Oh! Biscuits!")
For the hash browns...first I tried pressing them between paper towels, but that didn't seem to work as well as I had hoped. Next I got out a small colander, placed it on top of a bowl and pressed the grated potatoes into it. This worked like a charm!
At first I had too much oil in my pan. I poured some out, heated it up and proceeded to experiment with the hash browns. Here are some things to remember: don't make them too thin on the edges, as they will burn there...make sure you only have a tablespoon or two of oil or butter in the pan for each one, and drain them on paper towels. There...I think I got it all. Pretty simple really.
Next I decided I needed some eggs. I prefer my eggs to be cooked over medium. Yes...for those who don't know me...I'm a wee bit anal. I like the yoke runny and the whites COMPLETELY cooked. I can't stand runny whites. Makes me feel icky. Anyway...I cooked my eggs and then thought ...this meal isn't complete.
I'm the type of person who likes vegetables any time of the day. No meal is complete, in my opinion, without either a fresh fruit or veggie. So, today, I finished this meal off with a cucumber, strait from my Dad's and Sister's garden all the way from Maine. (It's my last one...sniff...sniff) Now, some people would say, "You can't eat cucumber with that! It's just doesn't go together!" Well...I say there ARE no rules with cooking. You can eat what you like and what sounds good together...any time you want to! So there!! :) For those of you who believe veggies don't go with breakfast...break out the fruit. Again... I say there are no rules with cooking! Then again...I don't like to do what I'm told!
I'm no Rachel Ray...for that I am certain. But I like food...good tasting food! Who doesn't?? :)
Today I'm starting out my day with crunchy, crispy hash browns, tasty fried eggs, mouth watering biscuits and crunchy delicious cucumbers! Where did the energy come from? I have no idea. What I do know is that I can't eat like this very often or Todd will have to roll me into the delivery room in November!
Monday, August 1, 2011
My first garden
I've begun a new adventure this year...gardening. I know, I know, we've been counseled to have a garden for years and years by our church, but I was scared. I had helped my parents with a garden as a kid, but I didn't remember how to go about doing a lot of it. I was intimidated by the unknown.
I finally have a home that has enough space to have a garden. Not only that, but there are no bunnies running around to eat it up on me. So with the encouragement of a friend I started purchasing plants. I bought tomatoes...way more than we really need...green peppers, eggplant, okra, cucumbers, squash and a few spices. I would love to have more, but didn't want to spend the money and then have the garden fail. I took it slowly. Another good friend offered her rich dark soil from her father's farm and very generously filled her truck and trailer and drove it to my house.
Todd has said from the beginning that he didn't want to have anything to do with the garden. His chore, when he was little, was to weed. No wonder he hated gardening! The joy is not found in the weeding. The joy is found when you cultivate the ground, add the plants/seeds, and watch your hard work become a beautiful garden full of delicious food. So, when I begged him to help me dig out the awful top soil, he agreed reluctantly. I tried so hard to dig it myself, but pregnancy does something to your muscles!! I get so tired out so quickly. It took a couple of evenings, but it was finally done and then we had the kids pick out all the crushed rock...for a wage. Counting the rocks was the most fun part for them. One penny per rock adds up quite quickly!
We piled the rich dark soil on top of the garden spot and then I began to plant. I have learned a lot since planting this garden. I have learned that if your garden slopes in a certain direction that you shouldn't put cucumber plants at the bottom of the slope. The water runs down hill and they get over watered. I lost all but one cucumber plant. BUT, the good news is that the one that survived is gorgeous and producing! I also decided that next year I will build up the lower end of the garden to make it level.
I never thought I could enjoy this as much as I have. Even the weeding has been enjoyable. It's quiet time to ponder and to think. It's also time that I spend talking to Father in Heaven and asking Him to bless my little garden as I am striving to do what I've been asked to do by modern day prophets.
Another good friend suggested taking old panty hose and cutting them into rings about 1/2 inch thick. Then you cut that open and use the "string" to tie up your plants. It's free and it works marvelously.
My plants are all growing huge and glorious! I thank Heavenly Father for blessing my little garden. The okra grows faster than the weeds...which is quite funny. It has huge leaves and beautiful blossoms. This past weekend I picked 5 okra! The eggplants are amazing. Their purple blossoms are pretty. I am pleasantly surprised at how quickly they grow as well. This weekend I picked 6 eggplant. We had Eggplant Parmesan for dinner on Saturday!! Delish!
Last night I was craving more eggplant but didn't want it fried, so I spent a few minutes researching how to prepare eggplant, online. This morning I baked a couple of eggplant peeled and sliced about 1/2 inch thick. I brushed them with some EVOO, sprinkled on some salt and pepper and placed a sprig of fresh thyme from my garden on each one. I baked it at 375 degrees for about 25 minutes and then broiled it for a couple minutes on each side. I then served it with eggs over medium and a couple of slices of toast. I ate both eggplants all by my self! They were so yummy!!!
I can't even believe the joy it brings to walk the short distance to my little garden and pick the fresh vegetables that are there. I never imagined I would feel this way about gardening! I'm SOLD!
The kids really enjoyed the first cucumber I picked! They were so excited and couldn't wait to taste it. Funny...it tastes like a cucumber! :) Max ate most of it, but we all got to taste its sweet crispy yumminess. I can't wait for the rest to grow!
The best part is that because I chose mostly vegetables that Todd likes too, he is able to enjoy the garden right along with us. He still won't go pull weeds, but he sees the blessings of the fruits of our labor!! And he likes how they taste too!!
I finally have a home that has enough space to have a garden. Not only that, but there are no bunnies running around to eat it up on me. So with the encouragement of a friend I started purchasing plants. I bought tomatoes...way more than we really need...green peppers, eggplant, okra, cucumbers, squash and a few spices. I would love to have more, but didn't want to spend the money and then have the garden fail. I took it slowly. Another good friend offered her rich dark soil from her father's farm and very generously filled her truck and trailer and drove it to my house.
Todd has said from the beginning that he didn't want to have anything to do with the garden. His chore, when he was little, was to weed. No wonder he hated gardening! The joy is not found in the weeding. The joy is found when you cultivate the ground, add the plants/seeds, and watch your hard work become a beautiful garden full of delicious food. So, when I begged him to help me dig out the awful top soil, he agreed reluctantly. I tried so hard to dig it myself, but pregnancy does something to your muscles!! I get so tired out so quickly. It took a couple of evenings, but it was finally done and then we had the kids pick out all the crushed rock...for a wage. Counting the rocks was the most fun part for them. One penny per rock adds up quite quickly!
We piled the rich dark soil on top of the garden spot and then I began to plant. I have learned a lot since planting this garden. I have learned that if your garden slopes in a certain direction that you shouldn't put cucumber plants at the bottom of the slope. The water runs down hill and they get over watered. I lost all but one cucumber plant. BUT, the good news is that the one that survived is gorgeous and producing! I also decided that next year I will build up the lower end of the garden to make it level.
I never thought I could enjoy this as much as I have. Even the weeding has been enjoyable. It's quiet time to ponder and to think. It's also time that I spend talking to Father in Heaven and asking Him to bless my little garden as I am striving to do what I've been asked to do by modern day prophets.
Another good friend suggested taking old panty hose and cutting them into rings about 1/2 inch thick. Then you cut that open and use the "string" to tie up your plants. It's free and it works marvelously.
My plants are all growing huge and glorious! I thank Heavenly Father for blessing my little garden. The okra grows faster than the weeds...which is quite funny. It has huge leaves and beautiful blossoms. This past weekend I picked 5 okra! The eggplants are amazing. Their purple blossoms are pretty. I am pleasantly surprised at how quickly they grow as well. This weekend I picked 6 eggplant. We had Eggplant Parmesan for dinner on Saturday!! Delish!
Last night I was craving more eggplant but didn't want it fried, so I spent a few minutes researching how to prepare eggplant, online. This morning I baked a couple of eggplant peeled and sliced about 1/2 inch thick. I brushed them with some EVOO, sprinkled on some salt and pepper and placed a sprig of fresh thyme from my garden on each one. I baked it at 375 degrees for about 25 minutes and then broiled it for a couple minutes on each side. I then served it with eggs over medium and a couple of slices of toast. I ate both eggplants all by my self! They were so yummy!!!
I can't even believe the joy it brings to walk the short distance to my little garden and pick the fresh vegetables that are there. I never imagined I would feel this way about gardening! I'm SOLD!
The kids really enjoyed the first cucumber I picked! They were so excited and couldn't wait to taste it. Funny...it tastes like a cucumber! :) Max ate most of it, but we all got to taste its sweet crispy yumminess. I can't wait for the rest to grow!
The best part is that because I chose mostly vegetables that Todd likes too, he is able to enjoy the garden right along with us. He still won't go pull weeds, but he sees the blessings of the fruits of our labor!! And he likes how they taste too!!
Monday, July 4, 2011
Happy Independence Day!
As I was looking at some photos and the posts of a friend I grew up with I realized how sad I was at the lifestyle this person chose to have. And then I was reminded of this great country and the freedoms that we are blessed with. We all have choices in life to make and it's up to us what kind of person we will become.
One of the greatest lessons I have learned so far in my life is that we are all so very different. We each have different likes, dislikes, passions, aversions, obsessions, and tastes. Our outlook on life is different depending upon the things we have gone through to get where we are. Our circumstances are different, whether by our own doing or by the choices of others. Looking at all these vast differences I realize how important it is that we learn to appreciate those one another FOR our differences. Our differences make this Nation great!
We shouldn't hate others merely because they have differing beliefs than ours. We should know their beliefs and appreciate the individual for the beliefs they have, and then respect them. There are times when we may have to distance ourselves from certain people because we feel their lifestyle/beliefs are inappropriate for us or our families.
Father in Heaven loves each of us, and our differences. He would have us love one another and be kind to one another. I think, this Independence Day, more of us in this world should try to show more love and kindness to one another than we have before. Let's make this world a better place to live in for ALL people of all races/ethnic backgrounds and all different religious backgrounds! God bless us all as we strive to be better people! Happy Independence Day!
One of the greatest lessons I have learned so far in my life is that we are all so very different. We each have different likes, dislikes, passions, aversions, obsessions, and tastes. Our outlook on life is different depending upon the things we have gone through to get where we are. Our circumstances are different, whether by our own doing or by the choices of others. Looking at all these vast differences I realize how important it is that we learn to appreciate those one another FOR our differences. Our differences make this Nation great!
We shouldn't hate others merely because they have differing beliefs than ours. We should know their beliefs and appreciate the individual for the beliefs they have, and then respect them. There are times when we may have to distance ourselves from certain people because we feel their lifestyle/beliefs are inappropriate for us or our families.
Father in Heaven loves each of us, and our differences. He would have us love one another and be kind to one another. I think, this Independence Day, more of us in this world should try to show more love and kindness to one another than we have before. Let's make this world a better place to live in for ALL people of all races/ethnic backgrounds and all different religious backgrounds! God bless us all as we strive to be better people! Happy Independence Day!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
A great Sunday!
I absolutely love it when I go to church and come home feeling uplifted and inspired and ready to take on the world! Many Sundays go by that I sit in the hallway holding my squirming, thrashing, screaming two year old. Some Sundays if is rough, but I learned a long time ago that simply attending church meetings so that your children can learn how wonderful it is, is reason enough to be there. It may be difficult for a while, but eventually they grow up a little and sit reverently and sometimes quietly! Today, my sweet husband took our two year old into the hallway for the majority of the times that she needed to be taken out. I am so thankful for him! His kindness allowed me to sit, and actually listen to the guest speakers, the St. Louis Mission President, his wife and his counselors. What an awesome Sunday!
To top that off, I was able to eat my snack, which I can't go without these days, and get into Sunday School before it really got underway. The lesson topic was "Love One Another". So simple, yet so profound. Charity, the pure love of Christ, can have an amazing effect on our lives and the world around us.
Then, as we were about to get things ready for Relief Society, our women's meeting, we were asked to join the Priesthood, men's group, and the youth for a lesson. What an unexpected surprise! President Layton, one of the counselors in the Mission presidency, taught the lesson. You guessed it...on missionary work. The real difference with his lesson was that he made missionary work seem easy. He explained how we can use it in our daily conversations. He made it a lot less scary!
Being the introvert that I am, it is very hard for me to want to share my belief with people, for fear of rejection or simply a negative response. I don't ever like to offend and I don't like confrontation. Although all my experiences with sharing the gospel have gone well, I still get nervous. I really enjoyed the way President Layton took a spin on it. It can be simple.
I can home feeling good, feeling uplifted, feeling inspired, feeling like I can actually share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with out it being an intimidating task.
I am so thankful for the Gospel in my life and the blessings that it brings on a daily basis. I'm thankful for a wonderful and loving husband who is so kind and forgiving and caring and for my awesome children who sometimes test me and try my patience so that I can grow and become the women I am meant to be. My children have a way of putting a smile on my face when I need it most!
To top that off, I was able to eat my snack, which I can't go without these days, and get into Sunday School before it really got underway. The lesson topic was "Love One Another". So simple, yet so profound. Charity, the pure love of Christ, can have an amazing effect on our lives and the world around us.
Then, as we were about to get things ready for Relief Society, our women's meeting, we were asked to join the Priesthood, men's group, and the youth for a lesson. What an unexpected surprise! President Layton, one of the counselors in the Mission presidency, taught the lesson. You guessed it...on missionary work. The real difference with his lesson was that he made missionary work seem easy. He explained how we can use it in our daily conversations. He made it a lot less scary!
Being the introvert that I am, it is very hard for me to want to share my belief with people, for fear of rejection or simply a negative response. I don't ever like to offend and I don't like confrontation. Although all my experiences with sharing the gospel have gone well, I still get nervous. I really enjoyed the way President Layton took a spin on it. It can be simple.
I can home feeling good, feeling uplifted, feeling inspired, feeling like I can actually share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with out it being an intimidating task.
I am so thankful for the Gospel in my life and the blessings that it brings on a daily basis. I'm thankful for a wonderful and loving husband who is so kind and forgiving and caring and for my awesome children who sometimes test me and try my patience so that I can grow and become the women I am meant to be. My children have a way of putting a smile on my face when I need it most!
Monday, June 20, 2011
Is it a girl or a boy?
We went to have an ultrasound last Tuesday. My OB told me I was being sent for a "Level 2" ultrasound. I looked it up online, but couldn't really tell what it was. I asked several different people I spoke with as I made the appointment and they weren't sure what to tell me. So, we get into the office...finally...we waited FOREVER...and when I asked the tech she didn't even know what a "level 2" ultrasound was. Hahaha!
I am guessing that the purpose of the ultrasound, according to what the doctor said the last time I saw her, was to check to make sure amniotic fluid and such were at an appropriate level. Being over 35 they are taking a few extra precautions.
The tech did a lot of measuring and showing us the baby's cute profile and then when she was looking for the sex she struggled. 16 weeks is really rather hard to be sure of the sex. She said she didn't see anything that indicated a boy, but she would let the Doctor make that call. After waiting for another few minutes the Doctor arrived.
Though I had already stated, several times, that I do not want any genetic testing done, she proceeded to tell me the risks of down syndrome, and other disorders. I was thinking, "Lady...they tell us not to stress out when we're pregnant, so why are you bent on telling me things that are raising my blood pressure?" I'm so glad I had my wits about me enough to patiently listen and calmly refuse the testing, yet again.
We chatted about the possible sex of the baby and she told us that she never makes a call on the sex until at least 20 weeks. She took a peek; she printed more pictures, took more measurements, and checked on the sex. She said, "There is no way at all that this is a boy!" So much for "never" making the call at 16 weeks!!
Another girl? Could that even be possible??? Okay...I was mystified! Not shocked, like I was when they told me Alyssa was a girl, but it was kind of an "OH!" moment; pleasant surprise! Todd and I both had felt that it was another boy. We even had just a boy's name picked out because we were so sure that it was a boy. Boy...were we wrong! Haha! I had had a tiny inkling in the last couple of weeks that it might not be a boy, but hadn't said anything. I figured it was just me doubting. Hehehe! Now, with no girl's name picked out, we are doing a lot of thinking, asking for suggestions, and making lists. Yeesh! I like to be prepared and go to the hospital with a name. I don't like to wait. So, the fact that we don't already have a name has been a source of anxiety for me.
Before we left the Doctor's office I asked why I wasn't feeling the baby move yet. She showed me that the placenta is in the front of the baby acting sort of like a sponge. So, when the baby kicks, it's being absorbed by the placenta. She said I should be feeling movement by the time I come back for... yet another ultrasound... in four weeks. That was comforting.
Step back world...another little girl is coming to join the Cantwell Clan!
I am guessing that the purpose of the ultrasound, according to what the doctor said the last time I saw her, was to check to make sure amniotic fluid and such were at an appropriate level. Being over 35 they are taking a few extra precautions.
The tech did a lot of measuring and showing us the baby's cute profile and then when she was looking for the sex she struggled. 16 weeks is really rather hard to be sure of the sex. She said she didn't see anything that indicated a boy, but she would let the Doctor make that call. After waiting for another few minutes the Doctor arrived.
Though I had already stated, several times, that I do not want any genetic testing done, she proceeded to tell me the risks of down syndrome, and other disorders. I was thinking, "Lady...they tell us not to stress out when we're pregnant, so why are you bent on telling me things that are raising my blood pressure?" I'm so glad I had my wits about me enough to patiently listen and calmly refuse the testing, yet again.
We chatted about the possible sex of the baby and she told us that she never makes a call on the sex until at least 20 weeks. She took a peek; she printed more pictures, took more measurements, and checked on the sex. She said, "There is no way at all that this is a boy!" So much for "never" making the call at 16 weeks!!
Another girl? Could that even be possible??? Okay...I was mystified! Not shocked, like I was when they told me Alyssa was a girl, but it was kind of an "OH!" moment; pleasant surprise! Todd and I both had felt that it was another boy. We even had just a boy's name picked out because we were so sure that it was a boy. Boy...were we wrong! Haha! I had had a tiny inkling in the last couple of weeks that it might not be a boy, but hadn't said anything. I figured it was just me doubting. Hehehe! Now, with no girl's name picked out, we are doing a lot of thinking, asking for suggestions, and making lists. Yeesh! I like to be prepared and go to the hospital with a name. I don't like to wait. So, the fact that we don't already have a name has been a source of anxiety for me.
Before we left the Doctor's office I asked why I wasn't feeling the baby move yet. She showed me that the placenta is in the front of the baby acting sort of like a sponge. So, when the baby kicks, it's being absorbed by the placenta. She said I should be feeling movement by the time I come back for... yet another ultrasound... in four weeks. That was comforting.
Step back world...another little girl is coming to join the Cantwell Clan!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Real Super Heroes
When we hear the term Superheroes or just heroes in general, many times our minds go directly to stories of Superman, Spiderman, Batman and a few others. These stories of individuals who care about others, who use their super human strength to save other peoples lives, who fly to the rescue of a damsel in distress...
use their laser beams to cut through walls...
These are only some of the things I think of when I think of a hero. But the ultimate heroes are the real people in the world who make sacrifices for others. Those who put themselves in harms way simply to protect another.
I'm sure there are dozens, maybe even hundreds of stories of real life heroes in the town of Joplin, MO. This morning I heard about one man who used himself as a shield to protect his wife, the love of his life, from the horrible tornado. He suffered a severe puncture wound in the his back and did not survive.
Not only are these families and individuals suffering the loss of their homes and the devastation surrounding them, but they are grieving the loss of their loved ones. Homes, vehicles, food, clothing...it can all be replaced. My heart aches for those who lost their loved ones; who have to find a way to get through the rubble and disorder without their husbands, wives and children.
Other heroes are those who answered the call and traveled many miles to lend a hand.
My heart goes out to these people who have lost their loved ones and homes. They are in my prayers.
use their laser beams to cut through walls...
These are only some of the things I think of when I think of a hero. But the ultimate heroes are the real people in the world who make sacrifices for others. Those who put themselves in harms way simply to protect another.
I'm sure there are dozens, maybe even hundreds of stories of real life heroes in the town of Joplin, MO. This morning I heard about one man who used himself as a shield to protect his wife, the love of his life, from the horrible tornado. He suffered a severe puncture wound in the his back and did not survive.
Not only are these families and individuals suffering the loss of their homes and the devastation surrounding them, but they are grieving the loss of their loved ones. Homes, vehicles, food, clothing...it can all be replaced. My heart aches for those who lost their loved ones; who have to find a way to get through the rubble and disorder without their husbands, wives and children.
Other heroes are those who answered the call and traveled many miles to lend a hand.
My heart goes out to these people who have lost their loved ones and homes. They are in my prayers.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
We're Very Excited!!
We are so excited to share our family news! Drum roll please...we are expecting baby number 6!! We thought we were finished having children. I mean, come on, five kids can be a lot of work some times. :D But the rewards are so worth it! We were contemplating taking permanent measures to prevent more children, since I get pregnant so easily. After much prayer and attending the temple we realized that there is one more sweet spirit that needs to come to our home. After taking a few months to wrap my brain around the idea we became...a little more...used to the idea.
The past couple of months I have spent lots of time feeling awful. Being sick during pregnancy is very normal for me, but as usual, I had hoped that it would be more mild and last a shorter period of time. That apparently was not in the plan for me! For a person who is normally very active and busy, it's very hard to be in bed or resting so much of the time. I haven't blogged. I haven't done laundry...unless absolutely necessary. Dishes keep piling up. Toys clutter the floor. Bathrooms are dirty. Books are sitting, half read, on my shelf. I can't wait to feel normal again!
Yesterday was my first OB appointment with a new Doctor. Dr. Su is such a sweet, laid back, easy to talk to person. I'm so thankful that I chose to see her! I was pleasantly surprised when she said she wanted to do an ultrasound to check to see if there was one...or two. Thankfully there is only one. I know I have watched good friends have twins and they are so precious and wonderful. I see the blessings of having two at once. I am extremely grateful that my Father in Heaven knows me so well, that he sends me one at a time!
We saw the heart beat! We saw the baby kicking! The baby looks healthy and is right on for my due date! I'm 13 weeks along (3 months) and due on November 26th! There are many family members who want me to have this baby on their birthday!! My Dad was born on November 23rd, my brother-in-law Scott was born on the 28th and Todd's brother Mike was born on the 27th. So, as long as I have this baby near the due date, I'll make someone happy!!
Many people have asked how the kids feel about it. Well, the boys are very excited! I was surprised at how excited they are! And I'm pleased that they are so excited. Alyssa, on the other hand, when I ask her is she wants a baby brother or sister to play with, she says no! I'm sure she'll be happy with it eventually! :D
So, this weekend was spent test driving a vehicle that could hold 8 passengers. Yesterday, I signed my life away to bring home this vehicle last night! What a blessing to be able to acquire a larger vehicle. We are grateful that everything keeps falling into place!
On a side note, the boys keep looking at my tummy to see if it's "swollen" yet! Ha! Max puts his hand on my belly and says, "Nope, not yet!" After working so hard for 2 years to lose weight I am thankful that I am gaining slowly!! I was so thrilled to be thinner than I had been in years. Todd keeps telling me not to worry, and that I'll be able to lose the weight it again! I sure hope he's right!
So, if you don't see a post from me for a few weeks, know that it's only because I'm tired and hard pressed to get anything other than dishes done!!
The past couple of months I have spent lots of time feeling awful. Being sick during pregnancy is very normal for me, but as usual, I had hoped that it would be more mild and last a shorter period of time. That apparently was not in the plan for me! For a person who is normally very active and busy, it's very hard to be in bed or resting so much of the time. I haven't blogged. I haven't done laundry...unless absolutely necessary. Dishes keep piling up. Toys clutter the floor. Bathrooms are dirty. Books are sitting, half read, on my shelf. I can't wait to feel normal again!
Yesterday was my first OB appointment with a new Doctor. Dr. Su is such a sweet, laid back, easy to talk to person. I'm so thankful that I chose to see her! I was pleasantly surprised when she said she wanted to do an ultrasound to check to see if there was one...or two. Thankfully there is only one. I know I have watched good friends have twins and they are so precious and wonderful. I see the blessings of having two at once. I am extremely grateful that my Father in Heaven knows me so well, that he sends me one at a time!
We saw the heart beat! We saw the baby kicking! The baby looks healthy and is right on for my due date! I'm 13 weeks along (3 months) and due on November 26th! There are many family members who want me to have this baby on their birthday!! My Dad was born on November 23rd, my brother-in-law Scott was born on the 28th and Todd's brother Mike was born on the 27th. So, as long as I have this baby near the due date, I'll make someone happy!!
Many people have asked how the kids feel about it. Well, the boys are very excited! I was surprised at how excited they are! And I'm pleased that they are so excited. Alyssa, on the other hand, when I ask her is she wants a baby brother or sister to play with, she says no! I'm sure she'll be happy with it eventually! :D
So, this weekend was spent test driving a vehicle that could hold 8 passengers. Yesterday, I signed my life away to bring home this vehicle last night! What a blessing to be able to acquire a larger vehicle. We are grateful that everything keeps falling into place!
On a side note, the boys keep looking at my tummy to see if it's "swollen" yet! Ha! Max puts his hand on my belly and says, "Nope, not yet!" After working so hard for 2 years to lose weight I am thankful that I am gaining slowly!! I was so thrilled to be thinner than I had been in years. Todd keeps telling me not to worry, and that I'll be able to lose the weight it again! I sure hope he's right!
So, if you don't see a post from me for a few weeks, know that it's only because I'm tired and hard pressed to get anything other than dishes done!!
Friday, April 8, 2011
Autism
I just watched a video on Facebook about a teenage girl with Autism. I was touched. I used about 1/4 of a box of tissues. I tried to post it on the blog, but I can't figure out how to do it correctly. If you are my friend on Facebook, go check my profile for the video clip.
Autism effects many people in many ways. In our home we have quite a soft spot for children/people with Autism. We live with Autism on a daily basis. There are moments when it is extremely difficult and other moments when we forget it's even there.
There are times when there is a lot of screaming and times when we have to search for Mr. Max to find out where he's hiding.
There's some hand flapping, toy twirling, silly noise making...
Sometimes there's pushing, kicking, hitting...
Always, there is a sweet little boy, with a sweet spirit inside of him that's just trying to communicate and connect. We are not always very good at handling situations that arise, but we have gotten better and better as he has gotten older.
I'm thankful that Mr. Max has a very high functioning form of Autism. Communication does happen. He does interact with others. If we hadn't put him on a gluten free/casein free diet, I'm not so sure he would have improved as much as he has. What a blessing!
Autism effects many people in many ways. In our home we have quite a soft spot for children/people with Autism. We live with Autism on a daily basis. There are moments when it is extremely difficult and other moments when we forget it's even there.
There are times when there is a lot of screaming and times when we have to search for Mr. Max to find out where he's hiding.
There's some hand flapping, toy twirling, silly noise making...
Sometimes there's pushing, kicking, hitting...
Always, there is a sweet little boy, with a sweet spirit inside of him that's just trying to communicate and connect. We are not always very good at handling situations that arise, but we have gotten better and better as he has gotten older.
I'm thankful that Mr. Max has a very high functioning form of Autism. Communication does happen. He does interact with others. If we hadn't put him on a gluten free/casein free diet, I'm not so sure he would have improved as much as he has. What a blessing!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
The kindness of others
I didn't know when I started my day yesterday that I would be touched by another...by a stranger.
I had a craving for Olive Garden yesterday and all I wanted to eat was soup, salad and bread sticks dipped in Alfredo sauce. I could almost taste it when I pictured the food in my mind. It's been a while since I had that for lunch. So I text-ed Todd at work and told him I wanted to meet him for lunch. I Googled the nearest Olive Garden location and it popped up about 20 minutes away, but a co-worker of Todd's said that there wasn't one in our city...Google must be mistaken. BUT...it's right there...online! So, I called the number listed...and to my dismay...this is what I heard,"Jeff City Red Lobster..." and I stopped listening. Disappointment set in.
The same co-worker then suggested a little Italian restaurant near the Capitol building that is her favorite. I don't enjoy driving around near the Capitol and really enjoy finding a parking space even less. I almost said no, but reluctantly decided to give it a try.
After circling around several times on the roads near the restaurant I realized I wasn't going to find a spot. Frustration was beginning to set in and I was about to give up. As it was I wasn't going to be able to enjoy what I really wanted in the first place. I finally decided to park in my bank's parking lot, even though I wouldn't be going into their establishment and we walked up the hill to the restaurant.
The place was packed...it seemed there were people everywhere. I was beginning to think this was a bad idea. We walked in and surprisingly enough we were seated right away. Hallelujah!
We were served bread and a tasty, seasoned dipping oil. Alyssa found the bread to be quite yummy and devoured her fair share! My eyes just about bugged out when I saw the prices for lunch and I wanted to just give up. Their menu options were limited. The soup of the day was lobster bisque, which sounded terrible, and I couldn't order any of the other soups listed in the menu. I finally settled on a salad and some fried zucchini sticks and called it good. The wait time was a bit longer than I thought it would be and when the food came out the zucchini sticks were not on the tray. I politely inquired to find out when they would be ready and the waiter apologized, he had not heard me ask for them. The salad was good...nothing to rave about. Todd's Fettuccine Alfredo was soupy and tasted like white macaroni and cheese sauce...oh well. Alyssa loved her mac and cheese and gobbled it right up.
We were sitting there, enjoying pleasant conversation and just being out together when a lady, who was also eating lunch in the restaurant, walked up, slid Todd a $20 bill and said, "This is for part of your meal. Thank you for your service." We both thanked the lady kindly and I tried to keep the tears from my eyes...unsuccessfully. I have never before been present when someone has paid for Todd's tab because he was dressed in his military uniform. He has told me stories, but this was the first time I was there. My heart was touched...what a kind gesture. I will forever remember the her thoughtful gesture.
Then the zucchini sticks arrived. Oh my goodness. Those delectable, scrumptious slices were worth every waiting moment. I would go to that restaurant again and simply order those and be happy as a clam! They were delicious!
My mood was considerably better as we walked out to pay for our meal. But the surprises weren't going to stop there. As we paid for our meal the lady taking payment mentioned that because Todd was in his officer's uniform we would be receiving 30% off our meal. WHAT! Okay! We shared looks of pleasant surprise, signed the slip and happily walked back to our car.
We had no idea we would have these blessings today. It put a spring in our step and a spark of happiness in our attitude that carried us through the rest of the day. It made me want to share bits of joy and happiness with others, more often. What can I do today that would make another person smile, or even lift their burden just a little and bring them a little happiness?
I had a craving for Olive Garden yesterday and all I wanted to eat was soup, salad and bread sticks dipped in Alfredo sauce. I could almost taste it when I pictured the food in my mind. It's been a while since I had that for lunch. So I text-ed Todd at work and told him I wanted to meet him for lunch. I Googled the nearest Olive Garden location and it popped up about 20 minutes away, but a co-worker of Todd's said that there wasn't one in our city...Google must be mistaken. BUT...it's right there...online! So, I called the number listed...and to my dismay...this is what I heard,"Jeff City Red Lobster..." and I stopped listening. Disappointment set in.
The same co-worker then suggested a little Italian restaurant near the Capitol building that is her favorite. I don't enjoy driving around near the Capitol and really enjoy finding a parking space even less. I almost said no, but reluctantly decided to give it a try.
After circling around several times on the roads near the restaurant I realized I wasn't going to find a spot. Frustration was beginning to set in and I was about to give up. As it was I wasn't going to be able to enjoy what I really wanted in the first place. I finally decided to park in my bank's parking lot, even though I wouldn't be going into their establishment and we walked up the hill to the restaurant.
The place was packed...it seemed there were people everywhere. I was beginning to think this was a bad idea. We walked in and surprisingly enough we were seated right away. Hallelujah!
We were served bread and a tasty, seasoned dipping oil. Alyssa found the bread to be quite yummy and devoured her fair share! My eyes just about bugged out when I saw the prices for lunch and I wanted to just give up. Their menu options were limited. The soup of the day was lobster bisque, which sounded terrible, and I couldn't order any of the other soups listed in the menu. I finally settled on a salad and some fried zucchini sticks and called it good. The wait time was a bit longer than I thought it would be and when the food came out the zucchini sticks were not on the tray. I politely inquired to find out when they would be ready and the waiter apologized, he had not heard me ask for them. The salad was good...nothing to rave about. Todd's Fettuccine Alfredo was soupy and tasted like white macaroni and cheese sauce...oh well. Alyssa loved her mac and cheese and gobbled it right up.
We were sitting there, enjoying pleasant conversation and just being out together when a lady, who was also eating lunch in the restaurant, walked up, slid Todd a $20 bill and said, "This is for part of your meal. Thank you for your service." We both thanked the lady kindly and I tried to keep the tears from my eyes...unsuccessfully. I have never before been present when someone has paid for Todd's tab because he was dressed in his military uniform. He has told me stories, but this was the first time I was there. My heart was touched...what a kind gesture. I will forever remember the her thoughtful gesture.
Then the zucchini sticks arrived. Oh my goodness. Those delectable, scrumptious slices were worth every waiting moment. I would go to that restaurant again and simply order those and be happy as a clam! They were delicious!
My mood was considerably better as we walked out to pay for our meal. But the surprises weren't going to stop there. As we paid for our meal the lady taking payment mentioned that because Todd was in his officer's uniform we would be receiving 30% off our meal. WHAT! Okay! We shared looks of pleasant surprise, signed the slip and happily walked back to our car.
We had no idea we would have these blessings today. It put a spring in our step and a spark of happiness in our attitude that carried us through the rest of the day. It made me want to share bits of joy and happiness with others, more often. What can I do today that would make another person smile, or even lift their burden just a little and bring them a little happiness?
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Fresh Cut Grass
Ahhhhhh...
Fresh Cut Grass...
Is there anything so marvelous? It's a smell that brings back memories of summers in Maine...
...my Dad showing me how to mow the lawn, which I thought was quite a privilege
...he would mow the outline of a square and I would mow the rest
...it's what made me love mowing the lawn...something special I did with my dad
...someone else take the kids and I'll go outside and breathe the fresh air and the sweet scent of freshly cut grass.
...add to that the smell of lilacs and my nose will be in heaven!
It's been crazy weather here in the Mid-West this year. On Sunday we had weather in the 80's and I had to turn on the air conditioner. That night we were assaulted by a thunderstorm...in some places it produced tennis ball sized hail...but here it was fairly mild. The rain brought cooler weather on its heels.
By Monday morning the thermometer read 40 degrees. The temperature didn't increase much that day and the wind was cold and biting. Winter jackets should have been worn that day.
Tuesday morning the house was frigid because we forgot to put the heat back on. I rushed over and switched the heat on and turned the temperature up a bit, then wrapped my self up in a warm sweatshirt and donned my fuzzy socks.
When TJ left for school the temperature was about 33 degrees. Winter coats were found before heading out to school. By lunch time it was 60 degrees outside, but we still needed sweat shirts to combat the wind whipping around us.
Today is a perfect day to trim the new Spring grass. Since buying our new home we planted winter wheat along with grass seed to help the grass grow better. There are thick dark patches where the wheat grew well, reaching well passed Miss Lyssa's knees. Mowing those patches proved to be a little more difficult as they seemed to choke the mower is it tried to cut it down. Several times it succeeded in making the mower stall, creating frustration for Mr. Mower.
Mr. Max and Excited Colin run after the mower, following where it had been. They want to be just like Mr. Mower some day.
The lawn is now short and attractive and the scent of sweet grass mixed with a little bit of gasoline fills the air. What a happy smell! Spring just might be here!
Fresh Cut Grass...
Is there anything so marvelous? It's a smell that brings back memories of summers in Maine...
...my Dad showing me how to mow the lawn, which I thought was quite a privilege
...he would mow the outline of a square and I would mow the rest
...it's what made me love mowing the lawn...something special I did with my dad
...someone else take the kids and I'll go outside and breathe the fresh air and the sweet scent of freshly cut grass.
...add to that the smell of lilacs and my nose will be in heaven!
It's been crazy weather here in the Mid-West this year. On Sunday we had weather in the 80's and I had to turn on the air conditioner. That night we were assaulted by a thunderstorm...in some places it produced tennis ball sized hail...but here it was fairly mild. The rain brought cooler weather on its heels.
By Monday morning the thermometer read 40 degrees. The temperature didn't increase much that day and the wind was cold and biting. Winter jackets should have been worn that day.
Tuesday morning the house was frigid because we forgot to put the heat back on. I rushed over and switched the heat on and turned the temperature up a bit, then wrapped my self up in a warm sweatshirt and donned my fuzzy socks.
When TJ left for school the temperature was about 33 degrees. Winter coats were found before heading out to school. By lunch time it was 60 degrees outside, but we still needed sweat shirts to combat the wind whipping around us.
Today is a perfect day to trim the new Spring grass. Since buying our new home we planted winter wheat along with grass seed to help the grass grow better. There are thick dark patches where the wheat grew well, reaching well passed Miss Lyssa's knees. Mowing those patches proved to be a little more difficult as they seemed to choke the mower is it tried to cut it down. Several times it succeeded in making the mower stall, creating frustration for Mr. Mower.
Mr. Max and Excited Colin run after the mower, following where it had been. They want to be just like Mr. Mower some day.
The lawn is now short and attractive and the scent of sweet grass mixed with a little bit of gasoline fills the air. What a happy smell! Spring just might be here!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Conference...a blessing to us all!
One of the most wondrous blessings about being alive in this day and age is having the Restored Gospel on the earth. What a fantastic time we live in. We are privileged to have a modern day Prophet on the earth today who leads and guides the Lord's church. He blesses us with guidance and direction so we can live our lives in a manner that is pleasing to our Father in Heaven. Sometimes his direction is so simple and easy, while other times it is harder and tests our faith.
This weekend I was excited to turn on the computer and watch our semi-annual General Conference and hear the words of our leaders. What wonderful messages they had for us. There were messages on parenting, showing love to our spouses, listening to the Holy Ghost, being self reliant, giving service to those in need, and being disciples of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
One of the simple things our Prophet, Thomas S. Monson, suggested that we do is to place a picture of the temple in each of the bedrooms in our home. The temples are beautiful places where we can go and feel of the spirit and receive courage and strength for the trials we might face. It is a place of learning. It is a place where families can be sealed for time and all eternity. It is a place of blessings. I want my children to love the temple as much as I do so that one day they too can be sealed to their eternal companions.
I am so thankful to be so blessed with the gospel in my life. It has helped to shape me into the person I am today. If you want to view any of the talks from General Conference, simply to go www.lds.org and look for the April 2011 conference. Soon you will be able to read them too. I can't wait to have my copy of the Ensign in my hot little hands!
This weekend I was excited to turn on the computer and watch our semi-annual General Conference and hear the words of our leaders. What wonderful messages they had for us. There were messages on parenting, showing love to our spouses, listening to the Holy Ghost, being self reliant, giving service to those in need, and being disciples of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
One of the simple things our Prophet, Thomas S. Monson, suggested that we do is to place a picture of the temple in each of the bedrooms in our home. The temples are beautiful places where we can go and feel of the spirit and receive courage and strength for the trials we might face. It is a place of learning. It is a place where families can be sealed for time and all eternity. It is a place of blessings. I want my children to love the temple as much as I do so that one day they too can be sealed to their eternal companions.
I am so thankful to be so blessed with the gospel in my life. It has helped to shape me into the person I am today. If you want to view any of the talks from General Conference, simply to go www.lds.org and look for the April 2011 conference. Soon you will be able to read them too. I can't wait to have my copy of the Ensign in my hot little hands!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Laugh...
I love a good laugh. And when I happen upon a random blog that makes me laugh...I save it to my favorites and hope to find more humor there on another day.
Laughter is healing...
Laughter makes others want to know what made you laugh in the first place...
Laughter is contagious...
Little toddler laughter is probably the best, most wonderful, and glorious laughter to be privileged to hear...
Belly laughs...need I say more!...
Hearing your children laugh...in hysterics...with one another...is joyous!
I think I'll go enjoy a good laugh with my family today!
Laughter is healing...
Laughter makes others want to know what made you laugh in the first place...
Laughter is contagious...
Little toddler laughter is probably the best, most wonderful, and glorious laughter to be privileged to hear...
Belly laughs...need I say more!...
Hearing your children laugh...in hysterics...with one another...is joyous!
I think I'll go enjoy a good laugh with my family today!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Books, books, and more books...
I love books...it's plain and simple...
Books are wonderful treasures...that allow me to escape reality...for a time...
I love reading good books...the poorly written ones I find I want to chuck out the window...
I would spend every moment of every day on my comfy couch...if I could...reading good books...
But...alas...this is not my season to indulge in such lovely things for prolonged periods of time...so... I get in a chapter here, a line there, where ever I can.
Those are moments of pure bliss...when I am enveloped by another glorious tale...it's like therapy!
The book I am currently reading is by one of my favorite authors, Brandon Sanderson...who is a phenomenal story teller. The title of the book is "Alcatraz versus the Scrivener's Bones". It's the second book in the series.
When I purchased the first book I did it...almost cautiously. I really wasn't sure what to expect. I had read The "Mistborn" series...which I highly recommend. But this "Alcatraz" series is geared toward youth readers. I figured I could read them, make sure they were suitable and then pass them on to my sons to read. Little did I know...
So, I picked it up and was pleasantly surprised. It is hilarious! I found myself laughing out loud...and my family would ask, "WHAT?" To which I would shake my head and say,"nothing". While reading, I have found myself furrowing my brow...trying to figure out what crazy thing would happen next.
This series isn't your typical Fantasy series. It's far more. At the end of the day, I look forward to cracking open the book, withdrawing into its story...and laughing at its silliness! My children will love reading them...when I'm through of course!
Books are wonderful treasures...that allow me to escape reality...for a time...
I love reading good books...the poorly written ones I find I want to chuck out the window...
I would spend every moment of every day on my comfy couch...if I could...reading good books...
But...alas...this is not my season to indulge in such lovely things for prolonged periods of time...so... I get in a chapter here, a line there, where ever I can.
Those are moments of pure bliss...when I am enveloped by another glorious tale...it's like therapy!
The book I am currently reading is by one of my favorite authors, Brandon Sanderson...who is a phenomenal story teller. The title of the book is "Alcatraz versus the Scrivener's Bones". It's the second book in the series.
When I purchased the first book I did it...almost cautiously. I really wasn't sure what to expect. I had read The "Mistborn" series...which I highly recommend. But this "Alcatraz" series is geared toward youth readers. I figured I could read them, make sure they were suitable and then pass them on to my sons to read. Little did I know...
So, I picked it up and was pleasantly surprised. It is hilarious! I found myself laughing out loud...and my family would ask, "WHAT?" To which I would shake my head and say,"nothing". While reading, I have found myself furrowing my brow...trying to figure out what crazy thing would happen next.
This series isn't your typical Fantasy series. It's far more. At the end of the day, I look forward to cracking open the book, withdrawing into its story...and laughing at its silliness! My children will love reading them...when I'm through of course!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
I AM...A STAY-AT-HOME MOM!!!
As I ran around...crazy...which is normal in our home...picking up the random toys and articles of clothing left by our two year old...I began pondering the importance of my job.
I have heard many people complain and make nasty comments about stay-at-home moms. I love this one...All they do is sit on the couch all day eating bon-bons.
To those who actually think those ridiculous things...I've not EVER had a bon-bon...in my life. Not only that, but my backside rarely has the pleasure of sitting on one of my comfy couches. My day ends when my children are tucked snuggly into their warm beds...and then, and only then, I am able to snuggle into my own bed and enjoy a good book or show.
I've also heard that people think that we don't do anything...at all...all day long. Well, I can tell you this...I AM the "Daycare". I play with my children, feed them, clean up after them, and make sure they are safe...I just don't get paid for it.
I am the "preschool". I read with them, I sit with them and help them on their homework, I cry with them, I break up little fights/arguments and help them to learn to get along, I teach them to color and cut with scissors and encourage their creativity.
I am the house keeper, the chef, the accountant...
When they fall and skin their knee...I'm their nurse...
When they're sad because someone won't play with them, I have the pleasure of holding them and reminding them of how much they are loved. I am the "guidance counselor".
Being a stay-at-home mom is the hardest job I have ever had. I work a lot of overtime...24/7...I never see a paycheck with my name on it...which means I never get a raise for a job well done...I also never have the opportunity to have a 6 month review where my boss tells me what a fantastic job I am doing...I get woken up in the middle of the night to get a drink for my 2 year old...and when one of the boys is sick I clean up after them...
The best part is...
My co-worker is the best I have ever had. He only works at home part-time, but when he does he's amazing! He is my best friend and we have an amazing work relationship. He is an amazing daddy and loves to play with our children.
Though the job is hard, and the pay is terrible, I wouldn't trade my job for anything. It is by far the most rewarding job I've ever had. So, for anyone who thinks we stay-at-home moms don't do anything...think again. Come spend a day with me at my home and see for yourself...it surely isn't all fun and games. But it is the most amazing I will ever have!
I have heard many people complain and make nasty comments about stay-at-home moms. I love this one...All they do is sit on the couch all day eating bon-bons.
To those who actually think those ridiculous things...I've not EVER had a bon-bon...in my life. Not only that, but my backside rarely has the pleasure of sitting on one of my comfy couches. My day ends when my children are tucked snuggly into their warm beds...and then, and only then, I am able to snuggle into my own bed and enjoy a good book or show.
I've also heard that people think that we don't do anything...at all...all day long. Well, I can tell you this...I AM the "Daycare". I play with my children, feed them, clean up after them, and make sure they are safe...I just don't get paid for it.
I am the "preschool". I read with them, I sit with them and help them on their homework, I cry with them, I break up little fights/arguments and help them to learn to get along, I teach them to color and cut with scissors and encourage their creativity.
I am the house keeper, the chef, the accountant...
When they fall and skin their knee...I'm their nurse...
When they're sad because someone won't play with them, I have the pleasure of holding them and reminding them of how much they are loved. I am the "guidance counselor".
Being a stay-at-home mom is the hardest job I have ever had. I work a lot of overtime...24/7...I never see a paycheck with my name on it...which means I never get a raise for a job well done...I also never have the opportunity to have a 6 month review where my boss tells me what a fantastic job I am doing...I get woken up in the middle of the night to get a drink for my 2 year old...and when one of the boys is sick I clean up after them...
The best part is...
My co-worker is the best I have ever had. He only works at home part-time, but when he does he's amazing! He is my best friend and we have an amazing work relationship. He is an amazing daddy and loves to play with our children.
Though the job is hard, and the pay is terrible, I wouldn't trade my job for anything. It is by far the most rewarding job I've ever had. So, for anyone who thinks we stay-at-home moms don't do anything...think again. Come spend a day with me at my home and see for yourself...it surely isn't all fun and games. But it is the most amazing I will ever have!
Monday, March 14, 2011
We're Rich...We're Rich!
As I go through my day I hear some of the funniest things coming from the mouths of my children! This morning, the first day of spring break, we woke up to fluffy white flakes falling from the sky. The ground was covered with about four inches of the white fluff. I smiled to myself and went back to my warm bed...enjoying the first day of sleeping in!
Later, while I was working on the computer in the kitchen, the kids came in...hungry...as usual. I pulled out a bag of carrots, opened the bag and set them on the counter while I heated a pan for fried eggs.
You would think that I had done something miraculous when I produced that BIG bag of baby carrots.
"Oh carrots, carrots,
Oh everyone has carrots,
Oh yes they do!"
Colin sang to himself...
"We're Rich, we're rich...
we're rich, of carrots"
Max exclaimed excitedly...
"YUMMY Carrots," Colin continued...
"Hello everybody...carrots are good for you," Colin said into a carrot microphone before he chomped into it. "Naaa, fa nana na na, naaa, fa nana na na," Colin sang as he danced around the kitchen, twirling, holding his carrot!
Max danced around and sang to himself while he ate his carrots.
Who knew that carrots could bring so much joy and happiness! :)
I should get out carrots more often!
Later, while I was working on the computer in the kitchen, the kids came in...hungry...as usual. I pulled out a bag of carrots, opened the bag and set them on the counter while I heated a pan for fried eggs.
You would think that I had done something miraculous when I produced that BIG bag of baby carrots.
"Oh carrots, carrots,
Oh everyone has carrots,
Oh yes they do!"
Colin sang to himself...
"We're Rich, we're rich...
we're rich, of carrots"
Max exclaimed excitedly...
"YUMMY Carrots," Colin continued...
"Hello everybody...carrots are good for you," Colin said into a carrot microphone before he chomped into it. "Naaa, fa nana na na, naaa, fa nana na na," Colin sang as he danced around the kitchen, twirling, holding his carrot!
Max danced around and sang to himself while he ate his carrots.
Who knew that carrots could bring so much joy and happiness! :)
I should get out carrots more often!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Nothing to say...
Days like this I find myself feeling like I want to write...but about what? So much is going on around me...it's like I'm sitting in my chair and the world and the chaos are spinning in rampant crazy circles around me and my chair...creating a blur.
I just finished reading a blog that I happened upon...and I'm always amazed at what I find when I need it! I was actually doing some research to help a friend find gf/cf foods for her children. It always makes me smile to read or hear about others who struggle with similar things in life. This woman also has a son with Autism and a son with ADHD. It seems that Autism and ADHD are everywhere. It's bringing people together to help one another through yet another trial in life.
We don't find things by accident...there is always a purpose.
People sometimes look at me in awe...like I must be some kind of hero...to be living with a child with Autism and one with ADHD. And I furrow my brow and think...they're my children...they ARE who they are, in part, because of the disorders...and I love them.
Yes...there are times when it's very crazy in our home...well...we ARE the CRAZY Cantwells! :)
Sometimes there are extremely loud screams coming from the mouth of Mr. Max; Screams that most normal 9 year olds would never find erupting from their bodies. We've learned not to react much. We turn, look to see it he's hurt/injured/dying and then when we see that he is not we tell him that the screaming is not an acceptable behavior. Usually it's caused by a sibling taking something, or pretending to throw something away that should not be thrown away, or because in his mind he had the cereal box first even if he hadn't even touched it yet.
What we find as pretty normal in our house...is far from normal to many people.
Max...hates homework. He gets very upset when he had to do homework. And when I'm not paying close enough attention, he makes me think that he doesn't have homework...then I realize the next morning that, in fact, he does have some. Let the screaming begin!
His newest way to show his frustration is to slap his own face. Well, that just can't make it much better, now can it.
It's a daily struggle. One that I know I can handle with the help of my Father in Heaven. And he seems to bless me with others...along the way...that can help me...or I can help them as we struggle each day through life.
Okay, so I started out with nothing to say, and then rambled on. That's par for the course I guess! Have a fantastically sunny day!
I just finished reading a blog that I happened upon...and I'm always amazed at what I find when I need it! I was actually doing some research to help a friend find gf/cf foods for her children. It always makes me smile to read or hear about others who struggle with similar things in life. This woman also has a son with Autism and a son with ADHD. It seems that Autism and ADHD are everywhere. It's bringing people together to help one another through yet another trial in life.
We don't find things by accident...there is always a purpose.
People sometimes look at me in awe...like I must be some kind of hero...to be living with a child with Autism and one with ADHD. And I furrow my brow and think...they're my children...they ARE who they are, in part, because of the disorders...and I love them.
Yes...there are times when it's very crazy in our home...well...we ARE the CRAZY Cantwells! :)
Sometimes there are extremely loud screams coming from the mouth of Mr. Max; Screams that most normal 9 year olds would never find erupting from their bodies. We've learned not to react much. We turn, look to see it he's hurt/injured/dying and then when we see that he is not we tell him that the screaming is not an acceptable behavior. Usually it's caused by a sibling taking something, or pretending to throw something away that should not be thrown away, or because in his mind he had the cereal box first even if he hadn't even touched it yet.
What we find as pretty normal in our house...is far from normal to many people.
Max...hates homework. He gets very upset when he had to do homework. And when I'm not paying close enough attention, he makes me think that he doesn't have homework...then I realize the next morning that, in fact, he does have some. Let the screaming begin!
His newest way to show his frustration is to slap his own face. Well, that just can't make it much better, now can it.
It's a daily struggle. One that I know I can handle with the help of my Father in Heaven. And he seems to bless me with others...along the way...that can help me...or I can help them as we struggle each day through life.
Okay, so I started out with nothing to say, and then rambled on. That's par for the course I guess! Have a fantastically sunny day!
Monday, March 7, 2011
6 Long Weeks!
Todd had decided many months ago that he wanted to attend AMS or Academy of Military Science. It's similar to Officer's Training School but for the Air National Guardsman. As the day grew closer for Todd to leave, my anxiety increased and I began to wonder how in the world I would take on this task. How would I do it? What if something happened while he was gone? So many scenarios ran rampant through my mind. Over and over they spilled into my thoughts as I tried desperately to mentally prepare. Finally, the day before he was to leave, I sat across from the Bishop for some counsel and felt prompted to ask him for a blessing. Walking out of his office I felt strengthened. I knew, with only a tiny bit of doubt, that I could do this.
Todd finished packing his bags and preparing himself for what would be one of the most challenging experiences of his life … and mine for that matter. We hadn’t been apart in years, except for small trips he had taken to Panama, etc. By the time the day to leave arrived there were many mixed emotions floating around our home. The boys didn’t want him to leave and the idea of 6 whole weeks apart seemed daunting. Alyssa, too young to understand, just knew something was coming.
Early in the morning … way too early … Todd loaded his car and we said our goodbyes … our tearful goodbyes. I wasn’t going to cry, but try as I might, I couldn’t hold back the flow of emotion. It took me a long time to allow myself to get back to sleep. Once the tears stopped, and I finally relaxed, I fell into my bed and fell asleep.
Along the way to Alabama, Todd called to check in. He let me know where he was and how he was doing. We even spoke a bit on Sunday. On Monday evening he was allowed a 2 minute phone call. He called to let me know he was safe and sound, but wouldn’t be able to call me for a while. I was thankful to hear his voice … and a little nervous about not being able to talk to him each day. On Wednesday night, I was at church for Scouts when I received a phone call … the number didn’t look like anything I recognized, so I answered. I was please and surprised to hear Todd’s voice on the other end of the line. He had received special permission to call me because he had not taken enough pairs of Dress Blues pants with him. He needed me to overnight them. Then he told me what a hard time he was having. They had to lock their personal belongings in a drawer…which included his cell phone … turned off. They had given them manuals to read … which they were expected to read and already know. They were getting yelled at left and right … or as they called it “Overhead Correction”. Every time his flight did something wrong they had to drop and do push-ups. They were constantly doing sit-ups, flutter kicks, planks and lots of marching. He had no idea before he left that he was going to be in an environment so similar to basic training. He was feeling down about it … considering the fact that he had worked so hard to become a Master Sergeant. He wondered if he really wanted to be there.
He pushed forward, working hard, studying for the tests … and at the end of the day he made time to read his scriptures and say his prayers. Once I learned that he read and prayed before bed, I began doing to same thing so that we could feel a little closer together.
Finally Sunday came and he was able to call … for a whopping 10 minutes. I was so thankful to hear his voice, even if it was for such a small amount of time.
I spent a lot of time on my knees … praying for Todd, and for our family. I know that Father in Heaven heard my prayers and blessed us immensely. For the first time … ever … I was able to fall asleep while he was gone. I felt at peace, knowing that we were all being watched over.
Eventually … after a few weeks we were able to talk on the phone every night. What a blessing that was. Not only did we talk, but we emailed as well. Throughout the day, when I felt prompted, I would sit and write my thoughts to him. Those emails became precious times for me to share with Todd my inner thoughts and feelings and share what was happening in our home. I treasured the replies and enjoyed our phone calls. It’s amazing and beautiful to see how much our relationship has grown over the years. It has changed and morphed and developed into this awesome marriage. I don’t see him the way I once did, when we first met. He is so much more to me, and I to him.
Graduation was coming … and I was down … sad …jealous … that I would not be able to attend. I expressed those feelings to my wonderful husband and he shared in my disappointment. We simply didn’t know how we could make it happen. Unbeknownst to me … Todd mentioned it to his mother. Not too long after that, I received a voice message from my Mother-in-law … she had an idea … so finally I called. I was sure that whatever her idea was … it wasn’t going to allow me to go see Todd. I laugh now, thinking that I should have had a better attitude!
My Mother-in-Law offered for her and Dad to drive up from Texas, pick me up, and then drive to Alabama. My mind was overwhelmed with the idea and the possibility. I needed to find people to take care of the boys. I needed to find someone to dog sit. I needed to find a formal dress to wear to the banquet dinner. I needed to get everything in order in about 2 weeks.
In a matter of a couple of days I found someone to take on the enormous task of taking care of an extra 4 children. What a wonderful friend. Elizabeth and her family are amazing! But I already knew that, and that is why I felt comfortable leaving my boys in her care. She did an amazing job. I didn’t worry a bit. What a fantastic blessing and an answer to my prayers she was.
So the search for the perfect … modest … dress was on. It was ON! I searched several sights. I called a couple of companies. I read the fine print. I started to feel like I would never be able to get an appropriate dress. Most companies require a minimum of 5-6 weeks to get the dress ready and shipped. Well, that would be fine if I didn’t need it in less than 2 weeks! I finally found a few dresses on www.beautifullymodest.com. They could ship it in 2-3 days!!! I was disappointed to find that they didn’t have my favorite dresses in my size … but they had a pretty red one … in a size larger … and I could get it taken in. Okay … fine. I went for it. I ordered that … found some cute black heels …and anyone who knows me knows that I do NOT wear heels … but I would do anything to impress my husband! I also found a cute black purse … and some tights … with hearts on them!
I decided to order another dress … a less dressy one … for graduation. It was one that Todd had mentioned that he REALLY liked the looks of. So, I ordered that one, as well, as a surprise.
While getting ready to go, I felt like I was going to go insane. So much to do … so little time … I started to have to prioritize those things that were most important. Don’t have time to finish the laundry … oh well … that can wait. Don’t have time to finish cleaning stinky, cluttery bedrooms … oh well … that can wait.
Tuesday morning finally came and Alyssa and I were on the road with Todd’s parents. The boys were in good hands and I took a deep breath! Everything was falling neatly into place.
12 hours later … we arrived at our hotel in Alabama. What a welcomed sight to see my handsome and amazing husband standing outside, waiting for me. The next few days are a bit of a blur …
A trip to the store for items forgotten…
A tour of OTS dorms, and other rooms and buildings…
Running back to the hotel to change…
Taking the State Oath…
Running back to the hotel to get ready for the Formal Banquet…
Getting nails done … and hair done …
Rushing out the door again…
Enjoying a tasty steak dinner, and amazingly … some interesting speakers…
Getting up early … packing the car … rushing to the base for Graduation…
Rush … rush … rush … rushing…
Watching graduation…
A funny … rushing up to the front to take pictures of Todd ringing the bell, and receiving his official document stating that he is now a Second Lieutenant … my decorative tights … which were thigh highs … started rolling down my leg. Oh Holy Cow! I prayed so hard that they would at least stay above my knee … and thankfully they did! How embarrassing would that have been? I quickly went back to my seat and proceeded to remove the cursed thigh highs. Note to self … never wear thigh highs again! That crisis averted … I was able to sit and visit with Todd’s brother, John, and his wife, Cherry, and their children while we half listened/watched the rest of the graduates … graduate.
Next the parade …
Then he was officially released from what seemed like … prison. He now had use of his cell phone, car and could hug and kiss me whenever he wanted to … since he was again in civilian clothing. You know … you gotta watch out for that PDA while in uniform!
We found a BBQ restaurant to eat at and enjoyed listening to the local accent. The company was pleasant, the food was delish, and the time spent with family … priceless!
We are finally home and enjoying sleeping in our own bed again. It’s amazing to me, as I look back, I can see Heavenly Father’s hand in this experience. He blessed us so much. He knew what we needed, and when we needed it most. I’m so thankful for this experience … and I’m glad it’s over!
Todd finished packing his bags and preparing himself for what would be one of the most challenging experiences of his life … and mine for that matter. We hadn’t been apart in years, except for small trips he had taken to Panama, etc. By the time the day to leave arrived there were many mixed emotions floating around our home. The boys didn’t want him to leave and the idea of 6 whole weeks apart seemed daunting. Alyssa, too young to understand, just knew something was coming.
Early in the morning … way too early … Todd loaded his car and we said our goodbyes … our tearful goodbyes. I wasn’t going to cry, but try as I might, I couldn’t hold back the flow of emotion. It took me a long time to allow myself to get back to sleep. Once the tears stopped, and I finally relaxed, I fell into my bed and fell asleep.
Along the way to Alabama, Todd called to check in. He let me know where he was and how he was doing. We even spoke a bit on Sunday. On Monday evening he was allowed a 2 minute phone call. He called to let me know he was safe and sound, but wouldn’t be able to call me for a while. I was thankful to hear his voice … and a little nervous about not being able to talk to him each day. On Wednesday night, I was at church for Scouts when I received a phone call … the number didn’t look like anything I recognized, so I answered. I was please and surprised to hear Todd’s voice on the other end of the line. He had received special permission to call me because he had not taken enough pairs of Dress Blues pants with him. He needed me to overnight them. Then he told me what a hard time he was having. They had to lock their personal belongings in a drawer…which included his cell phone … turned off. They had given them manuals to read … which they were expected to read and already know. They were getting yelled at left and right … or as they called it “Overhead Correction”. Every time his flight did something wrong they had to drop and do push-ups. They were constantly doing sit-ups, flutter kicks, planks and lots of marching. He had no idea before he left that he was going to be in an environment so similar to basic training. He was feeling down about it … considering the fact that he had worked so hard to become a Master Sergeant. He wondered if he really wanted to be there.
He pushed forward, working hard, studying for the tests … and at the end of the day he made time to read his scriptures and say his prayers. Once I learned that he read and prayed before bed, I began doing to same thing so that we could feel a little closer together.
Finally Sunday came and he was able to call … for a whopping 10 minutes. I was so thankful to hear his voice, even if it was for such a small amount of time.
I spent a lot of time on my knees … praying for Todd, and for our family. I know that Father in Heaven heard my prayers and blessed us immensely. For the first time … ever … I was able to fall asleep while he was gone. I felt at peace, knowing that we were all being watched over.
Eventually … after a few weeks we were able to talk on the phone every night. What a blessing that was. Not only did we talk, but we emailed as well. Throughout the day, when I felt prompted, I would sit and write my thoughts to him. Those emails became precious times for me to share with Todd my inner thoughts and feelings and share what was happening in our home. I treasured the replies and enjoyed our phone calls. It’s amazing and beautiful to see how much our relationship has grown over the years. It has changed and morphed and developed into this awesome marriage. I don’t see him the way I once did, when we first met. He is so much more to me, and I to him.
Graduation was coming … and I was down … sad …jealous … that I would not be able to attend. I expressed those feelings to my wonderful husband and he shared in my disappointment. We simply didn’t know how we could make it happen. Unbeknownst to me … Todd mentioned it to his mother. Not too long after that, I received a voice message from my Mother-in-law … she had an idea … so finally I called. I was sure that whatever her idea was … it wasn’t going to allow me to go see Todd. I laugh now, thinking that I should have had a better attitude!
My Mother-in-Law offered for her and Dad to drive up from Texas, pick me up, and then drive to Alabama. My mind was overwhelmed with the idea and the possibility. I needed to find people to take care of the boys. I needed to find someone to dog sit. I needed to find a formal dress to wear to the banquet dinner. I needed to get everything in order in about 2 weeks.
In a matter of a couple of days I found someone to take on the enormous task of taking care of an extra 4 children. What a wonderful friend. Elizabeth and her family are amazing! But I already knew that, and that is why I felt comfortable leaving my boys in her care. She did an amazing job. I didn’t worry a bit. What a fantastic blessing and an answer to my prayers she was.
So the search for the perfect … modest … dress was on. It was ON! I searched several sights. I called a couple of companies. I read the fine print. I started to feel like I would never be able to get an appropriate dress. Most companies require a minimum of 5-6 weeks to get the dress ready and shipped. Well, that would be fine if I didn’t need it in less than 2 weeks! I finally found a few dresses on www.beautifullymodest.com. They could ship it in 2-3 days!!! I was disappointed to find that they didn’t have my favorite dresses in my size … but they had a pretty red one … in a size larger … and I could get it taken in. Okay … fine. I went for it. I ordered that … found some cute black heels …and anyone who knows me knows that I do NOT wear heels … but I would do anything to impress my husband! I also found a cute black purse … and some tights … with hearts on them!
I decided to order another dress … a less dressy one … for graduation. It was one that Todd had mentioned that he REALLY liked the looks of. So, I ordered that one, as well, as a surprise.
While getting ready to go, I felt like I was going to go insane. So much to do … so little time … I started to have to prioritize those things that were most important. Don’t have time to finish the laundry … oh well … that can wait. Don’t have time to finish cleaning stinky, cluttery bedrooms … oh well … that can wait.
Tuesday morning finally came and Alyssa and I were on the road with Todd’s parents. The boys were in good hands and I took a deep breath! Everything was falling neatly into place.
12 hours later … we arrived at our hotel in Alabama. What a welcomed sight to see my handsome and amazing husband standing outside, waiting for me. The next few days are a bit of a blur …
A trip to the store for items forgotten…
A tour of OTS dorms, and other rooms and buildings…
Running back to the hotel to change…
Taking the State Oath…
Running back to the hotel to get ready for the Formal Banquet…
Getting nails done … and hair done …
Rushing out the door again…
Enjoying a tasty steak dinner, and amazingly … some interesting speakers…
Getting up early … packing the car … rushing to the base for Graduation…
Rush … rush … rush … rushing…
Watching graduation…
A funny … rushing up to the front to take pictures of Todd ringing the bell, and receiving his official document stating that he is now a Second Lieutenant … my decorative tights … which were thigh highs … started rolling down my leg. Oh Holy Cow! I prayed so hard that they would at least stay above my knee … and thankfully they did! How embarrassing would that have been? I quickly went back to my seat and proceeded to remove the cursed thigh highs. Note to self … never wear thigh highs again! That crisis averted … I was able to sit and visit with Todd’s brother, John, and his wife, Cherry, and their children while we half listened/watched the rest of the graduates … graduate.
Next the parade …
Then he was officially released from what seemed like … prison. He now had use of his cell phone, car and could hug and kiss me whenever he wanted to … since he was again in civilian clothing. You know … you gotta watch out for that PDA while in uniform!
We found a BBQ restaurant to eat at and enjoyed listening to the local accent. The company was pleasant, the food was delish, and the time spent with family … priceless!
We are finally home and enjoying sleeping in our own bed again. It’s amazing to me, as I look back, I can see Heavenly Father’s hand in this experience. He blessed us so much. He knew what we needed, and when we needed it most. I’m so thankful for this experience … and I’m glad it’s over!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Enjoying life...
Spending time with family can be so much fun! The kids really needed to have some down time with their cousins and I wanted to see my awesome friend who recently had her baby....during the blizzard! What a great reason for a road trip!
So, off we went to Kansas City to play. The weather was warm ... warm enough for the kids to be sporting their shorts and t-shirts.
Flip flops on my feet!
The warm weather makes me happy...and so does the lack of sneakers surrounding, confining, suffocating my feet. The less I have to wear shoes...the better.
The kids laughed, wrestled, ran, screamed, played, stayed up late...way too late...slept, and did it all over again!
We celebrated birthdays missed, ate yummy, gooey, chocolatey, warm goodness topped with real whipped cream. Yum! Delish!
We enjoyed movies, video games, board games and more. Ate scrumptious homemade pizza and pizza rolls, and tasty salsa chicken with rice, and juicy roast.
The kids ran, screamed, laughed and played some more.
We visited with friends: Michelle and her sweet family...including her adorable baby with the thick dark hair and kissable face, Georgia and her adorable children and kind husband...she's the best one-on-one that Max ever had at school! She and Max share quite a sweet bond. It was so nice to visit with her.
The kids begged, pleaded, whined, nagged, and asked if we could stay just one more night. Uncle Mike added his two cents too saying, "if you don't have to be back for school or anything you SHOULD stay another night"! Well, that did it. How do you say no to that? So, we stayed one more night.
By 10am I was ready to head for home. The bags were packed the van was loaded and we started the process. The whining began...and continued...and continued. It would be so much more fun to just stay longer. But I needed to get on the road...and Lyssa was fussy...
We headed for home at about 11:11...
When we got to I-70 today I went the wrong way....DUH! I got totally confused by all the detour signs and got all messed up. Grrr! I did a lot of hitting the steering wheel and yelling..."Darn it!!!" I set such a fantastic example of being cool, calm and collected in the face of frustration. NOT! Hahaha! Better to laugh at my mistakes... So, I finally found an exit to get myself turned around...we could see downtown KC by then. Hahaha!
Once we got back on the correct road...it was a nice, quiet drive. We sang to Rascal Flatts and Taylor Swift. TJ gestured to passing semi trucks to get them to honk their horns. (It's amazing the joy that can be created from a horn honking...it puts a smile on the child's face and one on the face of the trucker as well...)Lyssa and Colin slept soundly. Alex sang along to Rascal Flatts... they're one of our favorites...
Then ... we're driving down I-63 from Columbia and Max starts bawling. What in the world? So, Alex tells me that Max is upset because Colin is bothering him. Okay. Colin stops and Max is STILL bawling. Tears running down his cheeks. After a while I said, "Max, why are you crying?" He said, "I forgot!" Haha! Okay. Keep driving. But he KEEPS crying, and his face is all red...so brilliantly I ask another question..."Max do you need to go potty?" "I forgot!" He says again. "Do you need to poop or pee?" He says, "I need to pee!" So, here we are with bluffs on both sides of the road...Max crying his eyes out in pain from trying to hold it in...and no sign of a gas station. I kept driving...hoping I would find something. Then the cries turned into wails and I decided I didn't care who drove past and saw him peeing on the side of the road! I pulled over quickly and came to a stop and told both TJ and Max to hop out of the car. After much redirecting and repositioning so that the other drivers couldn't see anything...he was much relieved and much happier! :) His face turned back to the normal color and he was smiling again....On the road again....
We finally made it home, unpacked and relaxed! It's so nice to be back in our own home, enjoying the familiar sights and smells. Good trips help us to appreciate our homes! *sigh*
So, off we went to Kansas City to play. The weather was warm ... warm enough for the kids to be sporting their shorts and t-shirts.
Flip flops on my feet!
The warm weather makes me happy...and so does the lack of sneakers surrounding, confining, suffocating my feet. The less I have to wear shoes...the better.
The kids laughed, wrestled, ran, screamed, played, stayed up late...way too late...slept, and did it all over again!
We celebrated birthdays missed, ate yummy, gooey, chocolatey, warm goodness topped with real whipped cream. Yum! Delish!
We enjoyed movies, video games, board games and more. Ate scrumptious homemade pizza and pizza rolls, and tasty salsa chicken with rice, and juicy roast.
The kids ran, screamed, laughed and played some more.
We visited with friends: Michelle and her sweet family...including her adorable baby with the thick dark hair and kissable face, Georgia and her adorable children and kind husband...she's the best one-on-one that Max ever had at school! She and Max share quite a sweet bond. It was so nice to visit with her.
The kids begged, pleaded, whined, nagged, and asked if we could stay just one more night. Uncle Mike added his two cents too saying, "if you don't have to be back for school or anything you SHOULD stay another night"! Well, that did it. How do you say no to that? So, we stayed one more night.
By 10am I was ready to head for home. The bags were packed the van was loaded and we started the process. The whining began...and continued...and continued. It would be so much more fun to just stay longer. But I needed to get on the road...and Lyssa was fussy...
We headed for home at about 11:11...
When we got to I-70 today I went the wrong way....DUH! I got totally confused by all the detour signs and got all messed up. Grrr! I did a lot of hitting the steering wheel and yelling..."Darn it!!!" I set such a fantastic example of being cool, calm and collected in the face of frustration. NOT! Hahaha! Better to laugh at my mistakes... So, I finally found an exit to get myself turned around...we could see downtown KC by then. Hahaha!
Once we got back on the correct road...it was a nice, quiet drive. We sang to Rascal Flatts and Taylor Swift. TJ gestured to passing semi trucks to get them to honk their horns. (It's amazing the joy that can be created from a horn honking...it puts a smile on the child's face and one on the face of the trucker as well...)Lyssa and Colin slept soundly. Alex sang along to Rascal Flatts... they're one of our favorites...
Then ... we're driving down I-63 from Columbia and Max starts bawling. What in the world? So, Alex tells me that Max is upset because Colin is bothering him. Okay. Colin stops and Max is STILL bawling. Tears running down his cheeks. After a while I said, "Max, why are you crying?" He said, "I forgot!" Haha! Okay. Keep driving. But he KEEPS crying, and his face is all red...so brilliantly I ask another question..."Max do you need to go potty?" "I forgot!" He says again. "Do you need to poop or pee?" He says, "I need to pee!" So, here we are with bluffs on both sides of the road...Max crying his eyes out in pain from trying to hold it in...and no sign of a gas station. I kept driving...hoping I would find something. Then the cries turned into wails and I decided I didn't care who drove past and saw him peeing on the side of the road! I pulled over quickly and came to a stop and told both TJ and Max to hop out of the car. After much redirecting and repositioning so that the other drivers couldn't see anything...he was much relieved and much happier! :) His face turned back to the normal color and he was smiling again....On the road again....
We finally made it home, unpacked and relaxed! It's so nice to be back in our own home, enjoying the familiar sights and smells. Good trips help us to appreciate our homes! *sigh*
Friday, February 18, 2011
14 Years!
It's truly amazing to look back on your life and see how far you've come. Fourteen years ago today Todd and I were married in the Washington, DC temple. When we first met I was amazed at how well we knew each other in such a short amount of time. He has always had a way with making others laugh and smile. That hasn't changed. He brings a smile to my face every day.
He has spent many years working to get his degree and that time and effort has finally paid off. He received his official transcript and diploma in the mail this week. What an exciting moment. He reached his goal. It's finally complete.
Now he can focus on his job, creating a great Partnership Program with Panama, and work to improve his translating.
He is AMAZING!
I'm so thankful to be blessed with a man who loves me, takes care of me, laughs with me, holds me when I need him to, and is an incredible individual.
He has spent many years working to get his degree and that time and effort has finally paid off. He received his official transcript and diploma in the mail this week. What an exciting moment. He reached his goal. It's finally complete.
Now he can focus on his job, creating a great Partnership Program with Panama, and work to improve his translating.
He is AMAZING!
I'm so thankful to be blessed with a man who loves me, takes care of me, laughs with me, holds me when I need him to, and is an incredible individual.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
So Tired!
I knew I was tired, but I didn't realize I was that tired. When 7:30 came and I was snuggled up in bed with my 2 year old and I couldn't keep my eyes open, I knew I was a goner.
No matter how hard I tried, my eye lids kept falling. Is it 8 yet? Please let it be 8, I thought, as my eyes dropped closed again. A fleeting thought, it's Friday, they don't have to be in bed until 10. Oh crud. My eyes closed again. Kipper the dog played in the back ground. I opened my eyes, adjusted my glasses and willed my eyes to stay open for just a little while longer. Another episode was chosen, and Kipper continued....did I fall asleep again? My eyes popped open.
TJ's in my room asking me something...I couldn't figure out what. "Can you take care of Alyssa? I need to sleep." TJ takes Alyssa and keeps her busy. Kipper still playing in the background, was anyone even watching it? I don't know. My eyes closed again. I should take off my glasses....but I'm just so tired.
The boys came in and out of my room several times. I can't remember what they needed or wanted. I'm sure if it had been life threatening the tired fog would have lifted rapidly and I would have taken care of their needs. But that didn't happen, and the fog stayed, and the boys watched Suite Life on Deck or some other show, and Alyssa watched more Kipper.
At 10:30pm my eyes popped open and I saw Colin fast asleep on the cushion beside my bed. Alyssa was sound asleep next to me and Kipper was over. I kept hearing something. The dog was sleeping next to Colin, so it wasn't her making noise. Max was awake but on his bed being quiet. TJ was sound asleep in his bed, and Alex was on his bed pretending to be asleep. Silly boy. I told him he could sleep in the living room, but he had to be quiet and go to sleep. The living room is the fun place to sleep! I locked all the doors, checked the windows and locked some of those, and climbed back into my snuggly warm bed and fell asleep. And some where in there I remembered to take off my glasses...thankfully!
What a night!
No matter how hard I tried, my eye lids kept falling. Is it 8 yet? Please let it be 8, I thought, as my eyes dropped closed again. A fleeting thought, it's Friday, they don't have to be in bed until 10. Oh crud. My eyes closed again. Kipper the dog played in the back ground. I opened my eyes, adjusted my glasses and willed my eyes to stay open for just a little while longer. Another episode was chosen, and Kipper continued....did I fall asleep again? My eyes popped open.
TJ's in my room asking me something...I couldn't figure out what. "Can you take care of Alyssa? I need to sleep." TJ takes Alyssa and keeps her busy. Kipper still playing in the background, was anyone even watching it? I don't know. My eyes closed again. I should take off my glasses....but I'm just so tired.
The boys came in and out of my room several times. I can't remember what they needed or wanted. I'm sure if it had been life threatening the tired fog would have lifted rapidly and I would have taken care of their needs. But that didn't happen, and the fog stayed, and the boys watched Suite Life on Deck or some other show, and Alyssa watched more Kipper.
At 10:30pm my eyes popped open and I saw Colin fast asleep on the cushion beside my bed. Alyssa was sound asleep next to me and Kipper was over. I kept hearing something. The dog was sleeping next to Colin, so it wasn't her making noise. Max was awake but on his bed being quiet. TJ was sound asleep in his bed, and Alex was on his bed pretending to be asleep. Silly boy. I told him he could sleep in the living room, but he had to be quiet and go to sleep. The living room is the fun place to sleep! I locked all the doors, checked the windows and locked some of those, and climbed back into my snuggly warm bed and fell asleep. And some where in there I remembered to take off my glasses...thankfully!
What a night!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Friends
It's amazing to me how life throws us all together, in one place, to become friends, cherished friends, and then we move on to yet another place where we will make yet more wonderful and cherished friends.
The area we just moved from is full of the most fantastic people. And one by one we seem to be moving on, to other new places. One to the south, one a few hours away, one to the west...
We were put there, it would seem, to be together. To give one another what we needed at that time. To become friends. To laugh together. To learn together. And then one by one, we have moved on...but the friendships remain.
I know there is a purpose in it all. I know it's all meant to be. It makes me wonder...did I do what I needed to there? Did I touch the people I needed to touch? Did I learn what I was supposed to?
I know I made the most wonderful friends. It will be a special place in my memories forever. It will be one of the places I call "HOME"!
The area we just moved from is full of the most fantastic people. And one by one we seem to be moving on, to other new places. One to the south, one a few hours away, one to the west...
We were put there, it would seem, to be together. To give one another what we needed at that time. To become friends. To laugh together. To learn together. And then one by one, we have moved on...but the friendships remain.
I know there is a purpose in it all. I know it's all meant to be. It makes me wonder...did I do what I needed to there? Did I touch the people I needed to touch? Did I learn what I was supposed to?
I know I made the most wonderful friends. It will be a special place in my memories forever. It will be one of the places I call "HOME"!
I Embarrassed My Kids
I'm chuckling to myself as I think about it!
This morning didn't go quite as smoothly as yesterday. But, all things considered, the morning still turned out pretty good.
We got in the car to drive to school, just in time. Everyone was buckled, coats were on and some of them actually got zipped. Bellies were full, teeth were brushed, and I think most everyone had on clean clothing. :)
I turned on the newest Rascal Flatts CD and the first song has a pretty good...get up and go beat. I haven't yet learned all the words to the songs, since I haven't made the dedicated effort to listen to it every day. I WILL know the words eventually, so that I can sing along. What's the point of good music if we can't belt it out along with them?
So I completely embarrassed my children instead!
I started dancing in my seat. Callin' out to each of the kids, trying to get them to dance along. Alyssa joins in, a huge grin across her face, blue eyes sparkling with happiness.
Max bops a little to the music, smiling to himself, and looking at Alyssa, cracking up at me....My hands are waving, my head is bopping, I'm clapping, tapping the brakes to make the kids' heads bop...since they weren't going to join me in my craziness.
Alex sat straight faced in the front seat. I poked him, sang to him, giggled and he kept telling me no. He'd grin a little and then quickly regain his calm composure. "You're embarrassing me Mom!"
That only made me laugh harder and get sillier. Who's gonna know who I am as I drive by? No one! I pointed out that probably most of the people who even noticed us were thinking, "I wish I was having that much fun". Maybe we made a couple people smile, or shake their heads. Who knows.
Colin refused to join in. I couldn't even make him crack a smile. "MOM! You're embarrassing us!" He wants to be just like his big brother.
Here we are...driving on this back road with only the trees, the snow, some cows and a few horses to notice us. Who in the world would see us being silly?
I said, "No one is even out here! Who's gonna see us having a little fun?"
It didn't matter. They were dead set against being silly in the car.
After the boys got out at the school and we all said our routine "goodbyes" and "I love yous", Alyssa asked to listen to the music again. She was having fun clapping and bopping to the music with her silly mom. She hasn't gotten to an age where she cares what anyone thinks. What a precious age!
I hope we made a couple heads turn, I hope we made someone smile, and maybe someone shook their head but smiled to themselves thinking they wished they were having that much fun!
This morning didn't go quite as smoothly as yesterday. But, all things considered, the morning still turned out pretty good.
We got in the car to drive to school, just in time. Everyone was buckled, coats were on and some of them actually got zipped. Bellies were full, teeth were brushed, and I think most everyone had on clean clothing. :)
I turned on the newest Rascal Flatts CD and the first song has a pretty good...get up and go beat. I haven't yet learned all the words to the songs, since I haven't made the dedicated effort to listen to it every day. I WILL know the words eventually, so that I can sing along. What's the point of good music if we can't belt it out along with them?
So I completely embarrassed my children instead!
I started dancing in my seat. Callin' out to each of the kids, trying to get them to dance along. Alyssa joins in, a huge grin across her face, blue eyes sparkling with happiness.
Max bops a little to the music, smiling to himself, and looking at Alyssa, cracking up at me....My hands are waving, my head is bopping, I'm clapping, tapping the brakes to make the kids' heads bop...since they weren't going to join me in my craziness.
Alex sat straight faced in the front seat. I poked him, sang to him, giggled and he kept telling me no. He'd grin a little and then quickly regain his calm composure. "You're embarrassing me Mom!"
That only made me laugh harder and get sillier. Who's gonna know who I am as I drive by? No one! I pointed out that probably most of the people who even noticed us were thinking, "I wish I was having that much fun". Maybe we made a couple people smile, or shake their heads. Who knows.
Colin refused to join in. I couldn't even make him crack a smile. "MOM! You're embarrassing us!" He wants to be just like his big brother.
Here we are...driving on this back road with only the trees, the snow, some cows and a few horses to notice us. Who in the world would see us being silly?
I said, "No one is even out here! Who's gonna see us having a little fun?"
It didn't matter. They were dead set against being silly in the car.
After the boys got out at the school and we all said our routine "goodbyes" and "I love yous", Alyssa asked to listen to the music again. She was having fun clapping and bopping to the music with her silly mom. She hasn't gotten to an age where she cares what anyone thinks. What a precious age!
I hope we made a couple heads turn, I hope we made someone smile, and maybe someone shook their head but smiled to themselves thinking they wished they were having that much fun!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Oh, what a day!
And so the week begins. It's Monday again. I recently made a comment to my brother-in-law that Monday's aren't all bad, it's about perspective. And it's so true. Any day can turn into a bad day if we allow it to.
But on the flip side, any day can be a great day, if you make it such. It can be a fantastic day...a stupendous day...a fantabulous day...a wonderful day...an extraordinary day...an amazing day...an awesome day...a brilliant day...a sensational day.
It's up to you to make it that way!
Today was a great day. Today I actually got myself out of bed in time to exercise BEFORE I dragged my kids out of bed to get ready for school. We actually headed out the door on time. Can I hear a Hoot Hoot!
Spending time with a friend was the icing on the cake.
Leftovers for dinner, ice cream for desert (only because it's left over from my birthday. Otherwise we don't usually have desert), and then the kids will run off to play or watch a show.
*sigh*
Good times!
But on the flip side, any day can be a great day, if you make it such. It can be a fantastic day...a stupendous day...a fantabulous day...a wonderful day...an extraordinary day...an amazing day...an awesome day...a brilliant day...a sensational day.
It's up to you to make it that way!
Today was a great day. Today I actually got myself out of bed in time to exercise BEFORE I dragged my kids out of bed to get ready for school. We actually headed out the door on time. Can I hear a Hoot Hoot!
Spending time with a friend was the icing on the cake.
Leftovers for dinner, ice cream for desert (only because it's left over from my birthday. Otherwise we don't usually have desert), and then the kids will run off to play or watch a show.
*sigh*
Good times!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
A Favorite
http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?locale=0&vgnextoid=bd163ca6e9aa3210VgnVCM1000003a94610aRCRD&channelId=bd163ca6e9aa3210VgnVCM1000003a94610aRCRD&sourceId=ffd6ad4e1ae92210VgnVCM100000176f620a____
This is one of my most favorite talks given. President Uchtdorf is an amazing speaker. He always has a ways of making me feel like what I am doing is the BEST thing I could be doing in this life. I am a mother. I am a stay-at-home Mom. And I love my job!
The very last quote of this clip is the one that has stuck with me since he gave this address. "The more you trust and rely upon the spirit, the Greater your capacity to create!"
We create
...a spirit of love in our homes
...a clean tidy home
...meals for our families to eat
...a place for learning and growing, a place where the spirit may dwell
...bonds of love and friendship
...scrapbooks and journals of memories to share
...piles of cleaned, folded laundry to wear
...family home evenings to engage our family members
...times to work together as a team
There are so many ways that we can create. It's not just the painting, or photographs, or sculpture...it's the bread we bake, the story we write, the songs we sing. It's the smile we share, the giggles we hear, the quiet moments, the one-on-one talks, the teaching moments. As we live our lives, we create something each day.
This is one of my most favorite talks given. President Uchtdorf is an amazing speaker. He always has a ways of making me feel like what I am doing is the BEST thing I could be doing in this life. I am a mother. I am a stay-at-home Mom. And I love my job!
The very last quote of this clip is the one that has stuck with me since he gave this address. "The more you trust and rely upon the spirit, the Greater your capacity to create!"
We create
...a spirit of love in our homes
...a clean tidy home
...meals for our families to eat
...a place for learning and growing, a place where the spirit may dwell
...bonds of love and friendship
...scrapbooks and journals of memories to share
...piles of cleaned, folded laundry to wear
...family home evenings to engage our family members
...times to work together as a team
There are so many ways that we can create. It's not just the painting, or photographs, or sculpture...it's the bread we bake, the story we write, the songs we sing. It's the smile we share, the giggles we hear, the quiet moments, the one-on-one talks, the teaching moments. As we live our lives, we create something each day.
Inspiration
It is absolutely amazing to me how patience comes when I am reading my scriptures, reading the messages of the modern day prophets and apostles of the Lord; when I am listening to inspiring stories of Mothers who have risen above. We CAN be great Mothers, women, individuals. We can be better today than we were yesterday. We just need that push, that extra added measure of strength, that courage that comes from staying close to our Father in Heaven.
When I am in tune with the whisperings of the Spirit I can bite my tongue and then say kind words...I can stop and think before I act or speak...I can speak more softly...I can be more understanding...when I am in tune.
Each day is a challenge. Children fight and argue over trivial things. They take toys away from a sibling. They hit someone because they are upset. They leave their things all over the floor and the dog chews them up....I could go on and on.
Each day can turn into a joy. With our loving Father in Heaven at our side and our Savior as our example we can do so much; be so much more than we could have been. I am so thankful for a loving Father who blesses me when I need it most. He inspires me to read my scriptures and listen to the teaching of the prophets. He guides me so that I know what to say; so that I can be the woman I want to be. I want to be more and more like Him each and every day.
When I am in tune with the whisperings of the Spirit I can bite my tongue and then say kind words...I can stop and think before I act or speak...I can speak more softly...I can be more understanding...when I am in tune.
Each day is a challenge. Children fight and argue over trivial things. They take toys away from a sibling. They hit someone because they are upset. They leave their things all over the floor and the dog chews them up....I could go on and on.
Each day can turn into a joy. With our loving Father in Heaven at our side and our Savior as our example we can do so much; be so much more than we could have been. I am so thankful for a loving Father who blesses me when I need it most. He inspires me to read my scriptures and listen to the teaching of the prophets. He guides me so that I know what to say; so that I can be the woman I want to be. I want to be more and more like Him each and every day.
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