I love my children. I do, but it is wintertime (yes, it is cold in Northern New Mexico) and they are out of school today (Human Rights Day). And they had a 17 day holiday break. And sometimes I just need a time-out from them. Since moving here, I haven't found friends yet for the little ones to go play with. I have had more success with my 3 year-old and a few play dates, but not my kindergartener or 2nd grader. There are two boys in the neighborhood who are here a lot. That is great for Andy, but not always for me. They never play at their houses, just here. I am not opposed to sending them home when I am tired of them, but Andy doesn't play at their houses. He could I suppose, but he doesn't. Kids like our house. Which is a good thing. We even have the neighborhood teenage boys here a lot.
I have invited a few kids over from the ward for playdates for Andy and Janessa, but we haven't been called back. Not because of my kids or anything, just because we are still new and people don't think about it. And the kids in the ward aren't in their school classes or even necessarily in their school. (There are five classes of each grade in our school--next school year I will try to coordinate with other parents in the ward and try to get our kids in the same class). And of course if I call, I am not about to say "Can my kids come to your house and play?" So when we do have playdates, they are always over here. Janessa had a birthday party and I hoped to get things started there, but it didn't really happen. I have to tell you though, that Andy did get invited over for a playdate a few days before Christmas. I was very excited. It was planned a few days in advance. But then things got a little crazy and I was on the phone and distracted and forgot! until about 45 minutes later. (Don't ask me how I could forget and Andy break). And then it was too late because the family had other things going on. We have tried to hook up with them a few other times but it hasn't happened yet.
We do have a 9 year-old girl next door who the kids play with occasionally, and once in a while over there. So I shouldn't say I never get a break. Just not often.
To summarize, THANK YOU so much Tonya, Tori, Andrea, Ayako,Tiffany, Leah, Heather, Staci and Marie for giving me some Andy and Janessa breaks (especially Andy breaks!) Can you believe our kids are getting baptized this year? or have been baptized the past few months? I still remember when I had our group of boys, and Mayu, in nursery. I miss you all so much! (and not because of the playdates...)
ps. I just realized that in about 6 weeks Andy will get to go to Cub Scouts once a week and be out of the house for an hour! And those two boys that come over here--I have both of them going to our ward cub scouts now. (they are older than Andy). So I am doing a little missionary work, maybe.
Showing posts with label the move to New Mexico. Show all posts
Showing posts with label the move to New Mexico. Show all posts
January 18, 2010
October 28, 2009
It Looks Like I Am Back in Utah
We woke up to snow today. The kids were way excited. In fact Andy was dressed and ready before we had time to tell him to.
My kids don't know enough yet that when it snows here, you turn on the radio to see if there is a school delay--starting school two hours later due to road conditions so the buses can drive safely. Because there isn't lots of snow here usually. When I was growing up we probably had two or three snow delay days year. And I remember school being cancelled for a snow day maybe 5 times while I was in school. Those were fun days.
Anyway, no snow delay today but it continues to fall steadily. Maybe they will get an early release. (But personally, I hope not!)
The school year is already 1/4 of the way over! Wow. My kids get report cards this week. Last Friday I was invited to an end of term assembly at the elementary school and both of my little students received awards. Janessa receive a "Golden Pen Award" where on student from each class is chosen for authoring outstanding and creative stories, and Andy received a special recognition from his teacher for working hard to improve his handwriting. Very cool. I have to say I am a proud parent.
Andy wasn't very impressed with his award later when he learned that there was no tangible value to it. He came home and said "I don't get anything. It is just a piece of paper. Not even a coupon or anything!"
August 22, 2009
Choosing Sides
When we moved, I decided to switch sides of the bed with my husband. In this bedroom, if you walk in the door, turn and take a few steps, you run into into the side of the bed. In our old bedroom, you pretty much had equal access to either side as you entered the room. I decided I would take the side of the bed closer to the wall, away from the door. That way, when kids get up in the night, they would have a straight shot at Daddy and not me. However, for some reason it hasn't worked out that way. They still manage to navigate through the maze of boxes in the dark and arrive at my side of the bed in the wee hours of the morning. Not fair that kids seem to have a "Mom radar". You know, the one that never lets us go to the bathroom without someone finding us and pounding on the door, or talking to us underneath it.
I do have to say, much to my delight, my kids don't wake up nearly as much as they used to. Hooray! I am getting more uniterrupted sleep than I have for years. In fact, Andy finally started sleeping through the night every night about 3 or 4 months ago. Even though he is 7, he would still wake up and come into our room 4 or 5 nights a week.
Some food for thought: Did you know that most couples sleep with the man on the "driver's side" of the bed? If you were to sit up in bed, and think like you were in a car, the man is usually on the driver's side and the woman on the passenger side. How is it at your house? Do you and your spouse fit the norm? I am now on the driver's side, after having been on the passenger side for years .
I do have to say, much to my delight, my kids don't wake up nearly as much as they used to. Hooray! I am getting more uniterrupted sleep than I have for years. In fact, Andy finally started sleeping through the night every night about 3 or 4 months ago. Even though he is 7, he would still wake up and come into our room 4 or 5 nights a week.
Some food for thought: Did you know that most couples sleep with the man on the "driver's side" of the bed? If you were to sit up in bed, and think like you were in a car, the man is usually on the driver's side and the woman on the passenger side. How is it at your house? Do you and your spouse fit the norm? I am now on the driver's side, after having been on the passenger side for years .
July 17, 2009
The Neighborhood Now Knows We Are Here
We set up the trampoline and the pool tonight. And as you know, kids can't play in water or jump on the trampoline without screaming laughter and yelling. Especially my kids. I think I have the loudest kids. So now I am sure that the neighborhood is well aware that this house, which has been empty for 6 or 7 months, is now occupied. (Some probably observed the kid toys in the front yard, but for the rest of them, Here We Are!...)
A few pictures.
They did not bother to get their swim suits on.
We don't have grass back there, but lots of cement! We have grass in the front. I feel bad that I don't seem to take pictures of my older boys much. I should have gotten some pictures of Brennen and Scott setting up the tramp. Then I could have posted it with the one when Brennen was helping Scott set up the trampoline when we first got it when he was 4 years old. So cute. He has always like to put things together.
We don't have the net on yet, so they can only jump one at a time right now. If you know Andy, then you understand.
I suppose I will tell you why I LOVE the trampoline. I realize that trampolines are not the safest toy around, but we have been lucky. (knock on wood). My oldest son Dustin is a video game junkie, and TV and computer. Not so much now, but when he was younger, he could sit on the couch all day and watch TV or play Ninetendo. So for him, the trampoline was wonderful! It got him outside. A few weeks ago his friend Ricky was over and they were jumping on the tramp. They have been friends since they were 7. (They are now 15). I was watching out the kitchen window remembering those cute little boys and thinking how it was just like old times. Then I looked again and they were jumping, yes, but both staring at their cell phones. Okay. Not quite the same.
Anyway, my next son did not watch TV or play video games much when he was younger. He was a mover, liked real action. The trampoline was great for him because he liked and needed physical activity.
Andy is always on the go and doesn't slow down. I prefer him jumping on the trampoline to jumping on the furniture. He has so much energy the trampoline helps take some of it from him. Last year on the first day of school he was so excited and ready early and his brothers already left, and when can he go, etc. I finally sent him outside to jump on the tramp.
My last two kids love it also. I don't know what I would do without the trampoline.
One game that has been passed down from Dustin and his friends is that the kids gather as many balls as they can and put them on the trampoline and jump with them. If you get hit by a ball three times, you are out.
The favorite thing, of course, is to turn on the sprinkler under it. I don't know how much money I may have saved over the summers without wet and wild trampoline fun, but it has made me a happier mommy for sure! And you can't put a price on sanity.
A few pictures.
They did not bother to get their swim suits on.
We don't have grass back there, but lots of cement! We have grass in the front. I feel bad that I don't seem to take pictures of my older boys much. I should have gotten some pictures of Brennen and Scott setting up the tramp. Then I could have posted it with the one when Brennen was helping Scott set up the trampoline when we first got it when he was 4 years old. So cute. He has always like to put things together.
We don't have the net on yet, so they can only jump one at a time right now. If you know Andy, then you understand.
I suppose I will tell you why I LOVE the trampoline. I realize that trampolines are not the safest toy around, but we have been lucky. (knock on wood). My oldest son Dustin is a video game junkie, and TV and computer. Not so much now, but when he was younger, he could sit on the couch all day and watch TV or play Ninetendo. So for him, the trampoline was wonderful! It got him outside. A few weeks ago his friend Ricky was over and they were jumping on the tramp. They have been friends since they were 7. (They are now 15). I was watching out the kitchen window remembering those cute little boys and thinking how it was just like old times. Then I looked again and they were jumping, yes, but both staring at their cell phones. Okay. Not quite the same.
Anyway, my next son did not watch TV or play video games much when he was younger. He was a mover, liked real action. The trampoline was great for him because he liked and needed physical activity.
Andy is always on the go and doesn't slow down. I prefer him jumping on the trampoline to jumping on the furniture. He has so much energy the trampoline helps take some of it from him. Last year on the first day of school he was so excited and ready early and his brothers already left, and when can he go, etc. I finally sent him outside to jump on the tramp.
My last two kids love it also. I don't know what I would do without the trampoline.
One game that has been passed down from Dustin and his friends is that the kids gather as many balls as they can and put them on the trampoline and jump with them. If you get hit by a ball three times, you are out.
The favorite thing, of course, is to turn on the sprinkler under it. I don't know how much money I may have saved over the summers without wet and wild trampoline fun, but it has made me a happier mommy for sure! And you can't put a price on sanity.
July 9, 2009
Day One in New Mexico
I just want all my Utah friends and family to know that I finally cried. I am not totally emotionless (is that a word?) Sometimes--or mostly--I just have a hard time getting those emotions out. They really like to hide. But after packing and cleaning and packing and laundry, saying goodbye to friends and family, two nights of not sleeping well, and spending a day driving, the emotions finally spilled over this morning. I had a good cry and later a little nap and then I felt better.
I still can't sleep. I am sleeping at my Mom's until probably Saturday night when my husband and the rest of the family come. The three little kids and I came yesterday, Wednesday. I came earlier to get the "office" set up, specifically the internet and up and going. You know, wait around until the Qwest guy comes to hook it up. And make sure it works. My dad came and brought a trailer that we loaded up and then we drove back sort of together. Scott will bring the a moving truck Saturday with the rest of our stuff and our beds. Which brings me back to sleeping. Even though I was dead tired last night I could not sleep. Then same thing tonight. So I am blogging on my Mom's computer hoping to tire myself out. And maybe clear some thoughts out of my head.
Because I am still at my Mom and Dad's house I don't think the whole "I moved to a different city, state, ward" thing has quite sunk in yet. It is like I am visiting. I did start to feel a little more real tonight when we unloaded the trailer and I am seeing my furniture in the house.
Cameron does not like the new house. We are renting a house from my brother. It is a great size and location but needs some work. When I came in April to paint, Cameron did not like to be there. He cried. My sister-in-law and sister took turns tending him at their houses while I painted. I am guessing he doesn't like it is because it is an empty echo-y house (wood floors). I don't really know. He is just my sensitive little guy. Well this morning when we drove over to the house he didn't even want to get out of the van! He did not want me to undo his buckle. He apparently remembered from 3 months ago. When we went inside he was okay unless he couldn't see me. Then he started crying and wouldn't stop even when I was holding him. That's when I started crying. We went outside. My nephew played with him and I went back inside to continue crying. We didn't stay that long. But now there is some furniture in it so maybe he will like it better. And maybe when Daddy is in it too.
I still can't sleep. I am sleeping at my Mom's until probably Saturday night when my husband and the rest of the family come. The three little kids and I came yesterday, Wednesday. I came earlier to get the "office" set up, specifically the internet and up and going. You know, wait around until the Qwest guy comes to hook it up. And make sure it works. My dad came and brought a trailer that we loaded up and then we drove back sort of together. Scott will bring the a moving truck Saturday with the rest of our stuff and our beds. Which brings me back to sleeping. Even though I was dead tired last night I could not sleep. Then same thing tonight. So I am blogging on my Mom's computer hoping to tire myself out. And maybe clear some thoughts out of my head.
Because I am still at my Mom and Dad's house I don't think the whole "I moved to a different city, state, ward" thing has quite sunk in yet. It is like I am visiting. I did start to feel a little more real tonight when we unloaded the trailer and I am seeing my furniture in the house.
Cameron does not like the new house. We are renting a house from my brother. It is a great size and location but needs some work. When I came in April to paint, Cameron did not like to be there. He cried. My sister-in-law and sister took turns tending him at their houses while I painted. I am guessing he doesn't like it is because it is an empty echo-y house (wood floors). I don't really know. He is just my sensitive little guy. Well this morning when we drove over to the house he didn't even want to get out of the van! He did not want me to undo his buckle. He apparently remembered from 3 months ago. When we went inside he was okay unless he couldn't see me. Then he started crying and wouldn't stop even when I was holding him. That's when I started crying. We went outside. My nephew played with him and I went back inside to continue crying. We didn't stay that long. But now there is some furniture in it so maybe he will like it better. And maybe when Daddy is in it too.
July 6, 2009
Pack up the Laundry Soap
I am done doing laundry. I mean in this house. Whatever is dirty today, stays dirty until maybe next week. Because I have other things to do! Maybe some people would not be okay taking dirty laundry to their new home, but it's fine with me. I guess this means Cameron is wearing pull-ups for the next few days . . . (he is not quite accident free yet. I mean to get on that after we move. He does pretty good, but . . .).
It shouldn't have been so bad because I kept up really well last week. Then on Saturday afternoon Brennen and Scott came home from scout camp. So there was a week's worth of really dirty laundry to get done--for two people, including jackets.
I just thought about the bedding. . .Well, hopefully I can find a box with clean sheets in it after we get there.
It shouldn't have been so bad because I kept up really well last week. Then on Saturday afternoon Brennen and Scott came home from scout camp. So there was a week's worth of really dirty laundry to get done--for two people, including jackets.
I just thought about the bedding. . .Well, hopefully I can find a box with clean sheets in it after we get there.
July 5, 2009
Saying Goodbye...
Is just not easy.
I don't know what to say, or how to say it if I did know what to say. But I did it a lot tonight--at a 'hug party', as Andy called it--somehow. Trying to say goodbye to friends in the ward who have touched my life in so many different ways. Saying goodbye but not really expressing or exposing much of how I feel. Because it is hard. And I don't know what to say.
The past 8 years has brought a lot of change into my life. Mainly, I added three kids to my family. We became a 'big' family, and are no longer a "young family". We have moved into a "middle aged" family. When we first moved into the ward, there were very few junior primary kids and so our kids were welcomed heartily. When Andy came along he was the only baby at the time and the ward adopted him right along with us. The ward was here with me and was excited for each new addition, and there to support me during challenging times that come with motherhood. Basically this ward has seen my family grow up. Dustin was only 7 when we moved here and now he is taller than me and starting high school. My baby was 4 and a sunbeam. Now he is passing the sacrament, and has been replaced (as mentioned above) with other "babies." The ward has loved my kids and my kids loved them back.
I suppose I am babbling. Because I can. And I want to.
Yes, I am happy and looking so forward to sharing life with my family in New Mexico, but this ward family is so hard to leave. My next ward has big shoes to fill.
I don't know what to say, or how to say it if I did know what to say. But I did it a lot tonight--at a 'hug party', as Andy called it--somehow. Trying to say goodbye to friends in the ward who have touched my life in so many different ways. Saying goodbye but not really expressing or exposing much of how I feel. Because it is hard. And I don't know what to say.
The past 8 years has brought a lot of change into my life. Mainly, I added three kids to my family. We became a 'big' family, and are no longer a "young family". We have moved into a "middle aged" family. When we first moved into the ward, there were very few junior primary kids and so our kids were welcomed heartily. When Andy came along he was the only baby at the time and the ward adopted him right along with us. The ward was here with me and was excited for each new addition, and there to support me during challenging times that come with motherhood. Basically this ward has seen my family grow up. Dustin was only 7 when we moved here and now he is taller than me and starting high school. My baby was 4 and a sunbeam. Now he is passing the sacrament, and has been replaced (as mentioned above) with other "babies." The ward has loved my kids and my kids loved them back.
I suppose I am babbling. Because I can. And I want to.
Yes, I am happy and looking so forward to sharing life with my family in New Mexico, but this ward family is so hard to leave. My next ward has big shoes to fill.
June 27, 2009
Two Weeks and Counting
Moving Day is in two weeks! July 11th. It is really happening. There are so many mixed emotions that come with this:
Excitement.
Fear.
Sadness.
Joy.
Anticipation.
Regret.
Overwhelmed (if that's an emotion).
Guilt--because I am the one that wanted to move so I got the ball rolling and now I am uprooting my 5 children and husband.
Mostly I feel excited. I am looking forward to being with my parents and sharing my children with them. Excited to be part of my siblings' day to day lives and their families. Excited to be going "home" again, though I know you really never can go home again. It has been 20 years since I left home. Wow.
But right now I feel overwhelmed. So much to do! It would be one thing if I could pack and get things ready to move if that is the only thing to do, but I still have to be a MOM too. That is where it gets tricky. Going to baseball games, getting kids to practice, guitar lessons, speech class, remembering to get summer reading done (kids--my reading would be heaven!), referring arguments, tending sick kids (two this past week), laundry, cooking, cleaning, getting kids to do their jobs, etc. etc.
Moving would be a lot easier if I could take time off from being a mom!
Lots to do, so what am I doing on the computer!!!
Excitement.
Fear.
Sadness.
Joy.
Anticipation.
Regret.
Overwhelmed (if that's an emotion).
Guilt--because I am the one that wanted to move so I got the ball rolling and now I am uprooting my 5 children and husband.
Mostly I feel excited. I am looking forward to being with my parents and sharing my children with them. Excited to be part of my siblings' day to day lives and their families. Excited to be going "home" again, though I know you really never can go home again. It has been 20 years since I left home. Wow.
But right now I feel overwhelmed. So much to do! It would be one thing if I could pack and get things ready to move if that is the only thing to do, but I still have to be a MOM too. That is where it gets tricky. Going to baseball games, getting kids to practice, guitar lessons, speech class, remembering to get summer reading done (kids--my reading would be heaven!), referring arguments, tending sick kids (two this past week), laundry, cooking, cleaning, getting kids to do their jobs, etc. etc.
Moving would be a lot easier if I could take time off from being a mom!
Lots to do, so what am I doing on the computer!!!
June 13, 2009
Rainy Garage Sale
We had a garage sale. A true garage sale because it really was in our garage. It was raining off and on all morning. But the people kept coming. They started at 7:30 and came steadily until about 11:00 and a few more after that. I had no idea so many people would come.
My boys made some money. And the girls in the neighborhood who joined us made some money. I really did not make that much money, but did get rid of some toys and other misc stuff including a toilet seat. It was a pretty fun family project actually. I did have to send Andy to a friend's house (thanks so much Tori!) Friday afternoon while I was getting things ready because he was so 'wild'--too much activity and stuff I guess--and I had to steer Janessa away from talking customers' ear off, and Cameron cried when someone bought a book he liked (it was from the girls' stuff) but other than that it went okay. Dustin and Scott were around and mostly helped with 'kid' control (my kids).
The drama came Friday afternoon while I was preparing the garage for the sale. Our realtor called around 3:00 and wanted to show our house that evening at 6:30.
"I know you are having a yard sale and they understand. No big deal." she said.
"Yeah, but that means I have to get ready for the yard sale AND clean my house!" I protested. She assured me that they would understand. It would be fine.
Scott was gone. I was sort of panicked. I had been doing yard sale stuff a lot of the week and it's summer vacation so kids are home. That doesn't make for a tidy house. Don't get me wrong. I was VERY HAPPY that someone is wanting to look at our house. This is only the third showing in 3 months. Yet, the timing couldn't be worse. But my big boys helped and we ran around like maniacs. Scott came home and pitched in. And I somehow managed to feed everyone dinner too. When Scott and I left at 6:00 for volunteering at the Tabernacle (another story), then Dustin finished up the kitchen and sweeping. We pulled it off, garage sale and all. (We actually put a lot of stuff into the garage that wasn't going to be in the sale!) And since the house was still clean in the morning, except maybe some unmade beds, we showed it to an interested party during the garage sale too! Two showings in two days!
Did I mention I am tired?
May 21, 2009
Time
I have been thinking lots lately about volleyball coaching. And praying. I did get an interview for the job I applied for at Farmington High School, but they were suppose to get back to me to set a date and they didn't. As I mentioned earlier, chances are pretty good I could find a coaching job in or around Farmington for the fall. I know I would enjoy it, but I decided not this year. One reason I am moving to Farmington is to be with my family--my parents and siblings and their families. Instead of spending time in a gym, I want to spend time with my family.
And my number one reason is because my immediate family still needs me at home as much as possible. They will grow up soon enough (though some days it doesn't seem like it...) and I have plenty of time to coach. It will be enough change for everyone to be in a new city and in new schools without adding me going to work too. I want to be there when they come home from school.
Also, my body isn't getting any younger so I better play as much rec ball as I can before it gives out. As long as I am coaching games, I won't have time to play in them.
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven." Ecclesiastes 3:1
Now is my time to enjoy living by my parents and sharing my kids with them. Time to be there as my oldest son navigates the waters of high school, and learns to drive (ahhh!). Time to have fun through the tween years with my almost 12 year old. Time to foster Andy's enthusiasm and zest for life--or at least try to keep up with him. Time to share in Janessa's excitement as she starts her formal education and learns to read. Time to enjoy the last two years of having a child by my side everyday and seeing his joy as he discovers more and more about his world.
There will be plenty of time and volleyball seasons to be in the gym.
And my number one reason is because my immediate family still needs me at home as much as possible. They will grow up soon enough (though some days it doesn't seem like it...) and I have plenty of time to coach. It will be enough change for everyone to be in a new city and in new schools without adding me going to work too. I want to be there when they come home from school.
Also, my body isn't getting any younger so I better play as much rec ball as I can before it gives out. As long as I am coaching games, I won't have time to play in them.
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven." Ecclesiastes 3:1
Now is my time to enjoy living by my parents and sharing my kids with them. Time to be there as my oldest son navigates the waters of high school, and learns to drive (ahhh!). Time to have fun through the tween years with my almost 12 year old. Time to foster Andy's enthusiasm and zest for life--or at least try to keep up with him. Time to share in Janessa's excitement as she starts her formal education and learns to read. Time to enjoy the last two years of having a child by my side everyday and seeing his joy as he discovers more and more about his world.
There will be plenty of time and volleyball seasons to be in the gym.
May 6, 2009
I May Be Dusting Off My Whistle
So I found out that the high school I graduated from is looking for a head volleyball coach. And as I have been mentioning, I am moving back to my home town. My fourth child starts kindergarten this fall (all day), which leaves me with only one child at home. And he is a very easy going, happy, low maintenance type of child if you know what I mean. My husband works at home and is pretty much free by the time school is out. Can you see where this is leading?
I applied for the job. To be a varsity volleyball coach. The head coach. Me. I would be in charge. Of a high school program.
My husband was actually excited and encouraged me to. I was just mentioning the fact to him and he is telling me to go for it and that it would be great.
I don't know what to think really. I loved coaching. But that was years ago in college and when Dustin was a baby. I remember joking that I traded my gym bag for a diaper bag. I would take the play pen and he would play happily in during practice. But now I have been a mom dealing with diapers, ouchies, homework, piano lessons, cub scouts, orthodontist appointments and all the rest for the past 14+ years. I don't know anything about teenage girls anymore.
I want to coach. I have always wanted to coach again. I intend to win a state championship. In my next phase of life. I guess I just don't know if that phase is here yet. Can I handle a team and a family. And can my hubby handle the situation well too, and my kids? With the move I know there are many coaching opportunities because there are two high schools and four middle schools plus three surrounding towns with high schools and middle schools. (As opposed to the small town I now live in that has only one high school and does not have middle school sports). I had planned on going for a coaching position, but I was thinking like 7th or 8th grade girls and in a year or two.
Not that I need to worry about anything yet because all I did was apply. The opportunity presented itself and I acted on it. Who knows. I may be the next head volleyball coach of Farmington High School.
I applied for the job. To be a varsity volleyball coach. The head coach. Me. I would be in charge. Of a high school program.
My husband was actually excited and encouraged me to. I was just mentioning the fact to him and he is telling me to go for it and that it would be great.
I don't know what to think really. I loved coaching. But that was years ago in college and when Dustin was a baby. I remember joking that I traded my gym bag for a diaper bag. I would take the play pen and he would play happily in during practice. But now I have been a mom dealing with diapers, ouchies, homework, piano lessons, cub scouts, orthodontist appointments and all the rest for the past 14+ years. I don't know anything about teenage girls anymore.
I want to coach. I have always wanted to coach again. I intend to win a state championship. In my next phase of life. I guess I just don't know if that phase is here yet. Can I handle a team and a family. And can my hubby handle the situation well too, and my kids? With the move I know there are many coaching opportunities because there are two high schools and four middle schools plus three surrounding towns with high schools and middle schools. (As opposed to the small town I now live in that has only one high school and does not have middle school sports). I had planned on going for a coaching position, but I was thinking like 7th or 8th grade girls and in a year or two.
Not that I need to worry about anything yet because all I did was apply. The opportunity presented itself and I acted on it. Who knows. I may be the next head volleyball coach of Farmington High School.
April 29, 2009
Nap Time
I took this picture a few days ago while visiting my parents. I just love it. Cameron really buddied up to my dad while I was there. He was feeling sad one afternoon so Grandpa rocked him. And look, Cameron even fell asleep without his binkie!I am so excited to move close to my parents and have them be part of my childrens' lives, and vice versa.
April 14, 2009
Toy Box Treasures
I have not been blogging much lately. There are two reasons: 1) I have been cleaning and painting and deep cleaning and packing up my house to get it ready to sell and, 2) I suppose I have been a bit grouchy lately, because all the things I think to write about seem to be on the negative side. So I just don't write it out--I don't want everything on my blog to seem like complaining and whining, (just some of it).
Today I thought I would report on items that I found most when cleaning out closets, drawers and toy boxes as I have been decluttering. (This isn't an all inclusive list. I don't mention the garbage and candy wrappers, among other things).
If you have boys you usually have Legos (not that girls can't have legos, but...). I seem to be constantly picking up the little pieces so I wasn't surprised to find Legos in every corner and drawer and nook I cleaned out. Small blocks, bigger blocks, wheels, Lego people, body part of Lego people. I probably doubled the amount of Legos in our container when I was done.
I did find Polly Pocket accessories--those tiny shoes, purses, shirts--but not nearly as many as I thought I would. Probably because they had previously, unknowingly been vacuumed up.
I found a few dollars of change--mostly pennies but there were dimes and nickels and quarters too. Too bad my kids didn't know there was money in their closets, they might have cleaned them better.
And what surprised me the most was all the pens and pencils I found. You know when you can never find anything to write with when you need to take a phone message? They are all in your kids closets or under their beds. I found handfuls of writing utensils and crayons.
And of course there was the odd assortment of game pieces. I put those in a little basket and have yet to put them back to their original games. Maybe I just might throw the basket away and forget about it. It makes me wonder though, if we usually play games in the family room or at the table, how do the game pieces make it to bedrooms?
Today I thought I would report on items that I found most when cleaning out closets, drawers and toy boxes as I have been decluttering. (This isn't an all inclusive list. I don't mention the garbage and candy wrappers, among other things).
If you have boys you usually have Legos (not that girls can't have legos, but...). I seem to be constantly picking up the little pieces so I wasn't surprised to find Legos in every corner and drawer and nook I cleaned out. Small blocks, bigger blocks, wheels, Lego people, body part of Lego people. I probably doubled the amount of Legos in our container when I was done.
I did find Polly Pocket accessories--those tiny shoes, purses, shirts--but not nearly as many as I thought I would. Probably because they had previously, unknowingly been vacuumed up.
I found a few dollars of change--mostly pennies but there were dimes and nickels and quarters too. Too bad my kids didn't know there was money in their closets, they might have cleaned them better.
And what surprised me the most was all the pens and pencils I found. You know when you can never find anything to write with when you need to take a phone message? They are all in your kids closets or under their beds. I found handfuls of writing utensils and crayons.
And of course there was the odd assortment of game pieces. I put those in a little basket and have yet to put them back to their original games. Maybe I just might throw the basket away and forget about it. It makes me wonder though, if we usually play games in the family room or at the table, how do the game pieces make it to bedrooms?
March 17, 2009
Green Pancakes and Cleaning
I tried to be a fun mom this morning but it didn't work out too well. I made green pancakes for St. Patricks Day. It was actually my 11 year old's idea. However, I forgot that my 7 year old has a hard time with change, as do many children with ADHD. He would not eat them even though I tried to convince him that I just put food coloring in them, just like on his birthday cake when I made green frosting. He would have none of it, convinced that they would taste bad. During all this I remembered that last year the same thing happened--I made green pancakes and Andy had a fit. (I will make a mental note of this and try really hard to remember NOT to make green pancakes next St. Patrick's Day). His dad made him eggs--but not green ones with ham.
The funny thing is that this kid usually eats anything! He loves his vegatables and anything else we give him--except cold cereal. He eats and eats like you wouldn't believe. You couldn't tell by looking at his skinny body, because he burns it well with all the energy he uses.
On another topic, Spring Cleaning is in full swing at our house. I am starting to get overwhelmed with all that needs to get cleaned so our house looks tip-top for perspective buyers. We have thrown lots of away and make several donation trips to the thrift store. When did we get all this stuff? I have cleaned closets, scrubbed walls, boxed up toys and clothes and junk, and am takling the bathrooms. I don't think the house has been cleaned like this since we moved in. Of course after we moved in we added three children to our family. At this point I am thinking, if someone doesn't want to buy my house without it sparkling, than tough!
My daughter is bugging me to exercise. She likes to exercise with me so I better get going. What good movitation she is! (Then we are going to eat chocolate muffins for our snack).
The funny thing is that this kid usually eats anything! He loves his vegatables and anything else we give him--except cold cereal. He eats and eats like you wouldn't believe. You couldn't tell by looking at his skinny body, because he burns it well with all the energy he uses.
On another topic, Spring Cleaning is in full swing at our house. I am starting to get overwhelmed with all that needs to get cleaned so our house looks tip-top for perspective buyers. We have thrown lots of away and make several donation trips to the thrift store. When did we get all this stuff? I have cleaned closets, scrubbed walls, boxed up toys and clothes and junk, and am takling the bathrooms. I don't think the house has been cleaned like this since we moved in. Of course after we moved in we added three children to our family. At this point I am thinking, if someone doesn't want to buy my house without it sparkling, than tough!
My daughter is bugging me to exercise. She likes to exercise with me so I better get going. What good movitation she is! (Then we are going to eat chocolate muffins for our snack).
March 9, 2009
New Mexico, Here We Come!
We are moving. Not just to a new house or a new neighborhood, but to a new state. We are going foreign--to NEW MEXICO! kidding--I know that New Mexico is one of the 50. It amazes me however that some people don't seem to understand that. I have had comments like "You sure speak really good English", "I couldn't tell by looking at you that you are from New Mexico" and "Do you eat chips and salsa at every meal?" when people find out I grew up in New Mexico.
Anyway, I am taking my hubby and my kids to the Land of Enchantment so I can live by my family. Which means taking them away from Scott's family. Which I feel bad about. But it's not like we are leaving them to go to no family at all. We've been married almost 17 years now livining Utah, so I convinced my husband it's time to move to the other family. And honestly, I think it's meant to be. (stay with me, this might be a long story...)
I started thinking seriously about moving a few years ago after my parents got back from their mission. Cameron is my last baby, after all, and I want to share my kids with my parents. When I first brought up the idea, Scott was reluctant because he didn't want to leave his job. However, he has always wanted his own business and is constantly checking out opportunities. After years of looking, it just so happens that he found one! And he can do it at home anywhere where there is internet connections! So guess what I said after we got the business up and going? Time to move to NM.
The next thing that seemed to fall into place was a search for a house. We need at least 5 bedrooms, or 4 bedrooms and an office. And it can't be too pricey because as it is, it may be hard to get a loan while self-employed. It isn't too easy finding a house that big in our price range. But my brother, who lives in the town we are moving too, was remarried last spring. It just so happens that his wife has a five bedroom house that she would like to sell. They had been renting it but now the renters left. It needs some work, but the price is right, it is in a nice neighborhood, and only about 5 minutes from my parents!
This weekend we are making a quick trip down to see the house again as our new house and see what needs to be done before we move in. Then the two little kids and I are staying a few more days and coming back with my parents the middle of next week. Maybe my sister and I can find time to slap some paint on the walls while I am there!
We are planning to move after school is out. Our house will go up for sale in a week or two.
It's really happening . . .
and a side note: Scott's parents are leaving on a mission this fall so the timing of the move is good for everyone!
Anyway, I am taking my hubby and my kids to the Land of Enchantment so I can live by my family. Which means taking them away from Scott's family. Which I feel bad about. But it's not like we are leaving them to go to no family at all. We've been married almost 17 years now livining Utah, so I convinced my husband it's time to move to the other family. And honestly, I think it's meant to be. (stay with me, this might be a long story...)
I started thinking seriously about moving a few years ago after my parents got back from their mission. Cameron is my last baby, after all, and I want to share my kids with my parents. When I first brought up the idea, Scott was reluctant because he didn't want to leave his job. However, he has always wanted his own business and is constantly checking out opportunities. After years of looking, it just so happens that he found one! And he can do it at home anywhere where there is internet connections! So guess what I said after we got the business up and going? Time to move to NM.
The next thing that seemed to fall into place was a search for a house. We need at least 5 bedrooms, or 4 bedrooms and an office. And it can't be too pricey because as it is, it may be hard to get a loan while self-employed. It isn't too easy finding a house that big in our price range. But my brother, who lives in the town we are moving too, was remarried last spring. It just so happens that his wife has a five bedroom house that she would like to sell. They had been renting it but now the renters left. It needs some work, but the price is right, it is in a nice neighborhood, and only about 5 minutes from my parents!
This weekend we are making a quick trip down to see the house again as our new house and see what needs to be done before we move in. Then the two little kids and I are staying a few more days and coming back with my parents the middle of next week. Maybe my sister and I can find time to slap some paint on the walls while I am there!
We are planning to move after school is out. Our house will go up for sale in a week or two.
It's really happening . . .
and a side note: Scott's parents are leaving on a mission this fall so the timing of the move is good for everyone!
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