Interview over. New ADON announced. It's not me.
I can't say I'm not a little disappointed. But, I am okay.
I don't know if I was ready for Christian to go to a babysitter, just yet.
I have grown quite fond of our little man.
He is a delight. He smiles almost constantly. He laughs out loud at his Grandpa and at me.
I sing to him and he sings along. Yes, he does sing along. Just ask Grandpa. He heard him singing with me.
He also stays awake for longer periods of time. That is making my sleep time a lot less than I am used to and I really don't get enough most days. But, it is worth it to be able to spend time with him just hanging out.
Grandpa and Uncle Aaron are really good at helping out. I get to nap when they are home. They entertain Christian and keep him happy so Grandma can get in a nap. And Tish gets home from work and takes over the care of her little boy so I can rest for a while before I go back to work.
It's definitely working out.
If I had gotten the position that I applied for, I would have been working the same hours as Tish and we would have needed a sitter for Christian. There are wonderful babysitters out there but, no matter how wonderful they are, they just aren't going to do things the way Tish and I do them. Tish and I don't even do things the same way. We do agree on one very important point. Christian deserves our undivided attention all the time and a sitter, no matter how great, is not going to give that to him.
Even though he ultimately chose someone else, I feel that I made a good impression on my supervisor and that good things will come of the interview. We shall see. I am not sorry that I applied and I am really glad to have gotten the opportunity to have a lengthy sit-down conversation with the new DON at our facility. I think we know each other a little better and that is always a good thing.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Friday, May 23, 2008
I finally have an interview!
I had a message from my Director of Nursing waiting for me when I arrived at work, last night. My interview for the new position is set for Tuesday morning.
I am a little anxious and excited about the interview.
I am not worried. I am very good at interviewing and know I will handle myself well. I just hope that I am the person they are looking for to fill the position.
I know that I will be very good at the job. I just have to convince them of that.
Pray for me. This job is an opportunity for growth in my career, a generous pay raise, and much better hours.
My only regret is that it would become necessary for Tish to find a sitter for Christian or to find a job working different hours than she does now. I am sure it will all work out just fine, in the end.
Aaron has a new job. He starts on Tuesday. He laughed about the fact that he just got the job and his first day at work is a paid holiday.
We finally broke down and got a home phone. I called Mom today to check in with her. It was so nice to be able to talk without worrying about the battery running down, losing signal or my ear getting hot from the cell phone.
Alex, of course, had to join in the action. He climbed up onto my shoulder and grumbled away every time I would speak. It sounded as if he was participating in the conversation. I asked him if he wanted to talk to Grandma and he moved closer to the handset.
I asked,"What do you want to say?"
"Hello!", he answered.
Then he said,"Good boy, good boy."
"Alex IS a good boy.", Mom replied.
Alex answered her with,"Alright".
Then he was done talking on the phone, but he continued to sit on my shoulder and joined his own, "Ha ha ha!" with our laughter.
I had put him on his play gym earlier and since no one around here seems to be brave enough to assist me in clipping his wings, he has been doing a lot of flying around the dining room lately.
At some point he flew off of his play gym. I was sitting at the computer, playing a game and I heard a soft whistle. I looked around and did not immediately see him, so I continued with my game. Then, a couple of more whistles, like the whistle you would use to get someones attention.
I turned around and he was sitting on the back of the couch watching me. I asked him,
"what do you want?" , "Come here!" he said. I picked him up and he sat on my arm making kissing noises while I played my game.
In the mornings, when I come home from work, Alex greets me with, "Hello, Momma." Of course he will also say ,"Hello, Momma." to Jerry. Then he will start with,"Whatcha doin', whatcha doin', huh?" If that doesn't get the right response, he will add,"Come here, come here."
At that point it is getting too funny to ignore, he wants out, he wants on his play gym. So we get him out. We are always rewarded with a big kiss, kiss noise.
At night, when it gets dark, Alex likes to go to bed. If I don't go to him when he is ready, he will fly off his perch and make me come after him. He steps up for me willingly. I'll ask him if he wants to go to bed and he answers,"Go to bed, go to bed." I'll place him on the perch in his cage and he "helps" me shut the cage door, then he tells me, "Night,night".
I am amazed daily at his ability to pick up new words and phrases and even more suprised that he uses them in the correct context.
Only occasionally, will he ramble with no apparant purpose, going through every word and phrase and animal noise in his vast vocabulary. It is almost as if he is practicing his speech.
He rarely screeches any more and usually only when he is distressed or frightened by something.
But don't be fooled. As intellegient as he is, he will still bite the snot out of you if he doesn't want to be messed with. Yes, he has a real personality and a real temper to go along with it. He has his own ideas about what is appropriate behavior from humans and is extremely intolerate of what he considers rudeness.
The problems come in when you don't know that he thinks you are being rude.
The best advice I can give to my visitors, is, talk to him, give him treats and stay out of range of that beak. He can hurt you and he thinks it is funny to make you scream.
Most everyone listens to me. Who is going to argue with even a small bird who can crack open brazil nuts with his beak.
Well, enough about my little, green bird with the ego of an eagle.
New topic, next time. Don't forget to pray for me for this new job. Gad bless you all.
I am a little anxious and excited about the interview.
I am not worried. I am very good at interviewing and know I will handle myself well. I just hope that I am the person they are looking for to fill the position.
I know that I will be very good at the job. I just have to convince them of that.
Pray for me. This job is an opportunity for growth in my career, a generous pay raise, and much better hours.
My only regret is that it would become necessary for Tish to find a sitter for Christian or to find a job working different hours than she does now. I am sure it will all work out just fine, in the end.
Aaron has a new job. He starts on Tuesday. He laughed about the fact that he just got the job and his first day at work is a paid holiday.
We finally broke down and got a home phone. I called Mom today to check in with her. It was so nice to be able to talk without worrying about the battery running down, losing signal or my ear getting hot from the cell phone.
Alex, of course, had to join in the action. He climbed up onto my shoulder and grumbled away every time I would speak. It sounded as if he was participating in the conversation. I asked him if he wanted to talk to Grandma and he moved closer to the handset.
I asked,"What do you want to say?"
"Hello!", he answered.
Then he said,"Good boy, good boy."
"Alex IS a good boy.", Mom replied.
Alex answered her with,"Alright".
Then he was done talking on the phone, but he continued to sit on my shoulder and joined his own, "Ha ha ha!" with our laughter.
I had put him on his play gym earlier and since no one around here seems to be brave enough to assist me in clipping his wings, he has been doing a lot of flying around the dining room lately.
At some point he flew off of his play gym. I was sitting at the computer, playing a game and I heard a soft whistle. I looked around and did not immediately see him, so I continued with my game. Then, a couple of more whistles, like the whistle you would use to get someones attention.
I turned around and he was sitting on the back of the couch watching me. I asked him,
"what do you want?" , "Come here!" he said. I picked him up and he sat on my arm making kissing noises while I played my game.
In the mornings, when I come home from work, Alex greets me with, "Hello, Momma." Of course he will also say ,"Hello, Momma." to Jerry. Then he will start with,"Whatcha doin', whatcha doin', huh?" If that doesn't get the right response, he will add,"Come here, come here."
At that point it is getting too funny to ignore, he wants out, he wants on his play gym. So we get him out. We are always rewarded with a big kiss, kiss noise.
At night, when it gets dark, Alex likes to go to bed. If I don't go to him when he is ready, he will fly off his perch and make me come after him. He steps up for me willingly. I'll ask him if he wants to go to bed and he answers,"Go to bed, go to bed." I'll place him on the perch in his cage and he "helps" me shut the cage door, then he tells me, "Night,night".
I am amazed daily at his ability to pick up new words and phrases and even more suprised that he uses them in the correct context.
Only occasionally, will he ramble with no apparant purpose, going through every word and phrase and animal noise in his vast vocabulary. It is almost as if he is practicing his speech.
He rarely screeches any more and usually only when he is distressed or frightened by something.
But don't be fooled. As intellegient as he is, he will still bite the snot out of you if he doesn't want to be messed with. Yes, he has a real personality and a real temper to go along with it. He has his own ideas about what is appropriate behavior from humans and is extremely intolerate of what he considers rudeness.
The problems come in when you don't know that he thinks you are being rude.
The best advice I can give to my visitors, is, talk to him, give him treats and stay out of range of that beak. He can hurt you and he thinks it is funny to make you scream.
Most everyone listens to me. Who is going to argue with even a small bird who can crack open brazil nuts with his beak.
Well, enough about my little, green bird with the ego of an eagle.
New topic, next time. Don't forget to pray for me for this new job. Gad bless you all.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Opportunity is knocking!
I am fairly nervous about opening the door.
It means a huge responsibility for me in an extremely rewarding position, with a salary to match!
It means a Monday through Friday job with occasional long hours thrown in.
It means all major holidays off.
It means more vacation days.
It means that I have proven myself to be worthy of all the perks and difficulties that will arise.
But it also means that Christian will have to be placed with a day care or private sitter. I was not really ready for us to do that at this point. But it is an extraordinary opportunity that will not be there for long and may not be offered again. I don't want to miss my chance to be something more than I am. I feel that I have knowledge and experience to be shared and this position will give me the ability to share it.
I am up for it.
I am more than qualified.
I have the knowledge and experience.
I have the attitude.
I have everything rolled up into one nice little package.
I don't yet have the job.
I put in my request for consideration last night.
I was encouraged by my supervisor to try for it.
I have been cajoled and begged and ordered by co-workers to try for it.
So, I did it.
Now, I wait.
Hopefully, I will recieve that all important phone call for the big "interview".
I have already been interviewed once, very informally and informative.
I was told that I am being seriously considered and that I have all the right stuff, but there are also other people being considered.
I pray that I get the job. It will mean a substantial pay raise and the ability to do the things I love to do. I want it to be right, however, I am praying to get the job only if this is truly part of God's plan for my life. I will trust him completely with this. I did say I am nervous, but I am not obsessed or really worried about it. If they chose someone else who is qualified, I still have a full-time decent paying position.
All of you please pray for me, if this is the right ting for me to do, if I made the right decision, your prayers will mean so much to me. If for some reason the job is not right or the timing is not right, I will need prayers of support. I really do want it. I just want it to be right.
It means a huge responsibility for me in an extremely rewarding position, with a salary to match!
It means a Monday through Friday job with occasional long hours thrown in.
It means all major holidays off.
It means more vacation days.
It means that I have proven myself to be worthy of all the perks and difficulties that will arise.
But it also means that Christian will have to be placed with a day care or private sitter. I was not really ready for us to do that at this point. But it is an extraordinary opportunity that will not be there for long and may not be offered again. I don't want to miss my chance to be something more than I am. I feel that I have knowledge and experience to be shared and this position will give me the ability to share it.
I am up for it.
I am more than qualified.
I have the knowledge and experience.
I have the attitude.
I have everything rolled up into one nice little package.
I don't yet have the job.
I put in my request for consideration last night.
I was encouraged by my supervisor to try for it.
I have been cajoled and begged and ordered by co-workers to try for it.
So, I did it.
Now, I wait.
Hopefully, I will recieve that all important phone call for the big "interview".
I have already been interviewed once, very informally and informative.
I was told that I am being seriously considered and that I have all the right stuff, but there are also other people being considered.
I pray that I get the job. It will mean a substantial pay raise and the ability to do the things I love to do. I want it to be right, however, I am praying to get the job only if this is truly part of God's plan for my life. I will trust him completely with this. I did say I am nervous, but I am not obsessed or really worried about it. If they chose someone else who is qualified, I still have a full-time decent paying position.
All of you please pray for me, if this is the right ting for me to do, if I made the right decision, your prayers will mean so much to me. If for some reason the job is not right or the timing is not right, I will need prayers of support. I really do want it. I just want it to be right.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Busy, busy, busy!
I don't seem to have time to complete any task!
Every time I get started on something, something else needs my immediate attention.
I start cleaning and the baby needs to be fed.
I feed the baby and bottles need to be washed.
I get laundry together and it's time to cook dinner.
I gobble down my dinner because it's time to get ready for work.
I guess, I am not really, ready to live that life of leisure.
The sad thing is, that I am always worrying about what has not been done yet.
I need to go buy groceries, I need to clean the house, I need to cook dinner, I need to wash clothes, I need to call my mom, I need to give the dogs a bath, I need to clean the bird cage, I need to put away the clean laundry, I need to clean out the fridge, I need to pay the water bill, I need to clip Alex's wings, I need to put away these boxes that I packed up for the storage building, I need to clear out the carport.
I am off for three days this week. I don't see everything getting done before I go back to work.
Poor Jerry is just as busy, mowing the lawn, fixing the A/C, feeding the dogs, rearranging the storage, and of course fishing in addition to working his regular hours, plus off-duty assignments.
Hey World, we're getting older. Isn't life supposed to slow down? What happened to leisurely sipping a cup of coffee and reading that book that I started the other day. (I got interrupted and now, I can't remember where I sat it down, I have looked all over the house, in my bags, in the car....)
On to happier topics, AARON IS HOME. After 2400 miles and three days, he arrived safely at 4:oo in the morning on May 4th. Poor kid spent his entire 23rd birthday on the road. After a couple of close calls with gas money, he pulled in here and collapsed into his bed. He has unloaded his belongings and settled in to his room. Of course, he won't have much time to relax, he will be looking for a job soon.
It is so good to have him home, I missed his silliness, he goofy jokes and funny faces. I missed his hugs and his voice. I missed having someone eat my cooking as if it is the best food he has ever tasted. It is really good to have him home.
Right now, it is quiet in the house. Tish is working, Christian is sleeping, Aaron is sleeping and Jerry has gone fishing. I am blogging, but there is a load of laundry to get washed and a few dishes to wash, not to mention animals to care for and I really want to figure out where I put that book.........I looked there already......
Every time I get started on something, something else needs my immediate attention.
I start cleaning and the baby needs to be fed.
I feed the baby and bottles need to be washed.
I get laundry together and it's time to cook dinner.
I gobble down my dinner because it's time to get ready for work.
I guess, I am not really, ready to live that life of leisure.
The sad thing is, that I am always worrying about what has not been done yet.
I need to go buy groceries, I need to clean the house, I need to cook dinner, I need to wash clothes, I need to call my mom, I need to give the dogs a bath, I need to clean the bird cage, I need to put away the clean laundry, I need to clean out the fridge, I need to pay the water bill, I need to clip Alex's wings, I need to put away these boxes that I packed up for the storage building, I need to clear out the carport.
I am off for three days this week. I don't see everything getting done before I go back to work.
Poor Jerry is just as busy, mowing the lawn, fixing the A/C, feeding the dogs, rearranging the storage, and of course fishing in addition to working his regular hours, plus off-duty assignments.
Hey World, we're getting older. Isn't life supposed to slow down? What happened to leisurely sipping a cup of coffee and reading that book that I started the other day. (I got interrupted and now, I can't remember where I sat it down, I have looked all over the house, in my bags, in the car....)
On to happier topics, AARON IS HOME. After 2400 miles and three days, he arrived safely at 4:oo in the morning on May 4th. Poor kid spent his entire 23rd birthday on the road. After a couple of close calls with gas money, he pulled in here and collapsed into his bed. He has unloaded his belongings and settled in to his room. Of course, he won't have much time to relax, he will be looking for a job soon.
It is so good to have him home, I missed his silliness, he goofy jokes and funny faces. I missed his hugs and his voice. I missed having someone eat my cooking as if it is the best food he has ever tasted. It is really good to have him home.
Right now, it is quiet in the house. Tish is working, Christian is sleeping, Aaron is sleeping and Jerry has gone fishing. I am blogging, but there is a load of laundry to get washed and a few dishes to wash, not to mention animals to care for and I really want to figure out where I put that book.........I looked there already......
Friday, April 18, 2008
Yum, Yum!
Hot! Fresh! Deno's Homemade, Fried Fruit Pies!
I love the chocolate, and the lemon, and cherry, oh, and apple!
Jerry's favorite is apricot.
Too bad, Eddy isn't here to share.
Of course, I could go to Deno's and get some more, if he wanted to come and eat them!
They're even better than Homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookies.
Are ya hungry yet?
I think I'll go have one now!
Chocolate?
Cherry?
Maybe, lemon.......
I love the chocolate, and the lemon, and cherry, oh, and apple!
Jerry's favorite is apricot.
Too bad, Eddy isn't here to share.
Of course, I could go to Deno's and get some more, if he wanted to come and eat them!
They're even better than Homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookies.
Are ya hungry yet?
I think I'll go have one now!
Chocolate?
Cherry?
Maybe, lemon.......
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Time to catch up!
I haven't blogged in a while. I have been a little depressed, I guess. I know you all are tired of hearing me lecture and moan about my problems. The truth is, I have so many things in my life to be grateful for and I know that. The thing is every time I start to feel like I am getting better something comes up to bring me down again. It usually involves one of my four children. I think maybe Jerry and I should fly to Africa and adopt a couple of children who need parents who love them. Most of mine obviously don't.
You know, that is the nice thing about having pets. They always love you. No matter what.
Alex is happy to give me kisses anytime I want one. He doles them out to Jerry freely. All he asks in return is a little attention once in a while. Of course, he gets a lot of attention daily. He is willing and ready to be picked up and put on his play gym. He sits in his cage in the morning and calls, "Hello, Hello, Hello Mama." until Jerry or I will open his door and let him step up. The whole time we are carrying him across the room, he lets us know repeatedly that he is a "Good Boy". We always agree with him. He rarely tries to bite anymore, so he really is a "Good Boy". He waits patiently on his gym for his treat. Jerry always gives him a little something so he is quickly becoming quite fond of Jerry. Jerry will point his finger at him and say, "Bang". Alex thinks that is hilarious, he will actually laugh for several minutes. Then Jerry gets tickled and that makes Alex laugh even more. He is such a funny bird and he loves to make us laugh.
Sami is so sweet. He just wants to be close to you. No matter where Jerry sits, you can bet that Sami will be close by. Of course, he is such an old man and getting supremely spoiled. Jerry doesn't eat anything that he doesn't share with Sami. All of my scolding falls on deaf ears where Sami is concerned. Jerry loves that little dog. Sami doesn't ask for anything else.
Junior and Mocha have turned into the "Terrible Twosome" They really know how to liven up a dull evening. Their antics are hilarious, albeit sometimes a bit destructive. They spend a bit of their time outside nowadays, at least until the puppy stage wears off somewhat.
Saul is just "Old Faithful" always ready for a scratch behind the ears or a pat on the head. He doesn't need anything else to make him happy. He is just thrilled to be around us.
Ya know, maybe I'll just forget about Africa. I'll just stay here with my animals and my animal loving husband. I don't have to be afraid that they will stop loving me.
You know, that is the nice thing about having pets. They always love you. No matter what.
Alex is happy to give me kisses anytime I want one. He doles them out to Jerry freely. All he asks in return is a little attention once in a while. Of course, he gets a lot of attention daily. He is willing and ready to be picked up and put on his play gym. He sits in his cage in the morning and calls, "Hello, Hello, Hello Mama." until Jerry or I will open his door and let him step up. The whole time we are carrying him across the room, he lets us know repeatedly that he is a "Good Boy". We always agree with him. He rarely tries to bite anymore, so he really is a "Good Boy". He waits patiently on his gym for his treat. Jerry always gives him a little something so he is quickly becoming quite fond of Jerry. Jerry will point his finger at him and say, "Bang". Alex thinks that is hilarious, he will actually laugh for several minutes. Then Jerry gets tickled and that makes Alex laugh even more. He is such a funny bird and he loves to make us laugh.
Sami is so sweet. He just wants to be close to you. No matter where Jerry sits, you can bet that Sami will be close by. Of course, he is such an old man and getting supremely spoiled. Jerry doesn't eat anything that he doesn't share with Sami. All of my scolding falls on deaf ears where Sami is concerned. Jerry loves that little dog. Sami doesn't ask for anything else.
Junior and Mocha have turned into the "Terrible Twosome" They really know how to liven up a dull evening. Their antics are hilarious, albeit sometimes a bit destructive. They spend a bit of their time outside nowadays, at least until the puppy stage wears off somewhat.
Saul is just "Old Faithful" always ready for a scratch behind the ears or a pat on the head. He doesn't need anything else to make him happy. He is just thrilled to be around us.
Ya know, maybe I'll just forget about Africa. I'll just stay here with my animals and my animal loving husband. I don't have to be afraid that they will stop loving me.
Friday, April 04, 2008
Normal!
Things are getting back to normal around here. At least as normal as they are going to get in this house.
My vacation ended and I was sure sad about that. It was nice while it lasted.
Chase is off today to fight for his country, he is going to Houston first and then to Iraq.
Tish is pretty upset about it. I know she will be praying for his safety as will her Dad and I.
Christian is growing by leaps and bounds and getting cuter and sweeter every day.
Geri is in Houston right now. She is supposed to come in sometime next week for a doctors' appointment and a sonogram. We may find out at last that she is carrying a little girl (I hope).
Aaron should be contacting us real soon about his expected date and time of arrival. I did get his room finished. It's painted and furnished, just waiting for him to take up residence.
Jerry is working and loving his job. We are seeing a little light at the end of the tunnel. The off-duty jobs are helping to get us healthy again in the financial dept.
Right now, I would say life is pretty fine.
We are being blessed every day.
God is so good in so many ways.
Now, if I could just win the lottery.
My vacation ended and I was sure sad about that. It was nice while it lasted.
Chase is off today to fight for his country, he is going to Houston first and then to Iraq.
Tish is pretty upset about it. I know she will be praying for his safety as will her Dad and I.
Christian is growing by leaps and bounds and getting cuter and sweeter every day.
Geri is in Houston right now. She is supposed to come in sometime next week for a doctors' appointment and a sonogram. We may find out at last that she is carrying a little girl (I hope).
Aaron should be contacting us real soon about his expected date and time of arrival. I did get his room finished. It's painted and furnished, just waiting for him to take up residence.
Jerry is working and loving his job. We are seeing a little light at the end of the tunnel. The off-duty jobs are helping to get us healthy again in the financial dept.
Right now, I would say life is pretty fine.
We are being blessed every day.
God is so good in so many ways.
Now, if I could just win the lottery.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Last Day!
Today is the last day of my vacation. I did not get everything done that I had hoped to get done, these past ten days.
I did accomplish a few things.
First, I rested! I did not worry once about what time it is, where I need to be, what I need to do, or what is going on.
Second, I watched TV. Sounds silly, but I don't usually have time to do that. By the time, my day winds down, I am too tired to watch TV.
Third, I spent quality time with Christian. Between my work schedule and home life, I have not had time to just enjoy the little guy! Care for him, yes! But not just sit and enjoy his sweet company!
Fourth, I spent quality time with my husband. Our work schedules are such that we have just seen each other in passing lately. It was so nice to get to spend the whole day with him on Saturday. Just being together, running errands and TALKING.
Fifth, I have read two books! It has been ages since I was able to finish one book. I have actually read two in just a few days.
Sixth, I painted Aaron's room. Three coats of paint on the walls and four coats on the door frames and window sills and I finally got all of the "baby poop tan" covered completely up. Today, I will put the furniture in there and rehang the curtains. After a few finishing touches, hanging pictures and making the bed, Aaron's room will be ready and waiting for him when he comes home!
Last, but the best of all, I spent time with my Lord. I have spent time in prayer, I have spent time healing from all the recent hurts in my life. I have spent time being thankful for the wondrous gifts and blessings. I have spent time praising the One who delivers me. I have spent time accepting that I do not really control anything and that things that happen are not MY FAULT. I have spent time just living in the Spirit and loving my life!
All in all, I think it has been a very productive vacation and I am ready to return to life with a renewed sense of self-worth and a lift in my spirit and a song in my heart.
Sometimes, vacations do not have to be grand and exciting. You don't have to go anywhere, you don't have to take memorable photos of historical monuments and natural wonders. Sometimes on vacation, you just need to slow down and let yourself breath.
I am refreshed!
I did accomplish a few things.
First, I rested! I did not worry once about what time it is, where I need to be, what I need to do, or what is going on.
Second, I watched TV. Sounds silly, but I don't usually have time to do that. By the time, my day winds down, I am too tired to watch TV.
Third, I spent quality time with Christian. Between my work schedule and home life, I have not had time to just enjoy the little guy! Care for him, yes! But not just sit and enjoy his sweet company!
Fourth, I spent quality time with my husband. Our work schedules are such that we have just seen each other in passing lately. It was so nice to get to spend the whole day with him on Saturday. Just being together, running errands and TALKING.
Fifth, I have read two books! It has been ages since I was able to finish one book. I have actually read two in just a few days.
Sixth, I painted Aaron's room. Three coats of paint on the walls and four coats on the door frames and window sills and I finally got all of the "baby poop tan" covered completely up. Today, I will put the furniture in there and rehang the curtains. After a few finishing touches, hanging pictures and making the bed, Aaron's room will be ready and waiting for him when he comes home!
Last, but the best of all, I spent time with my Lord. I have spent time in prayer, I have spent time healing from all the recent hurts in my life. I have spent time being thankful for the wondrous gifts and blessings. I have spent time praising the One who delivers me. I have spent time accepting that I do not really control anything and that things that happen are not MY FAULT. I have spent time just living in the Spirit and loving my life!
All in all, I think it has been a very productive vacation and I am ready to return to life with a renewed sense of self-worth and a lift in my spirit and a song in my heart.
Sometimes, vacations do not have to be grand and exciting. You don't have to go anywhere, you don't have to take memorable photos of historical monuments and natural wonders. Sometimes on vacation, you just need to slow down and let yourself breath.
I am refreshed!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Big Day Tuesday!
Tish and I took Christian to his pediatrician yesterday for his 2 month check-up and the first of his immunizations.
He now weighs 12.2 pounds and is 22 1/2 inches long. He is eating well and the doctor was pleased with his growth.
Our only concern is he still has his heart murmur. The doctor was not overly concerned about it but he does want Christian to see a specialist. So, they are making an appointment for him with a pediatric heart specialist and will call us with the date and time.
Otherwise he is in perfect health.
We changed his formula to sensitive and it has really helped with the spitting up issues. He sleeps more soundly and for longer periods of time.
He is such a sweet baby. He loves to be cuddled, of course. But he is happy to be put down so he can look around at his world. He is sleeping through the night and rarely cries. Mostly he cries when Mommy is messing with his little nose.
He got two injections yesterday and one oral medication. I gave him some Tylenol when we got home. I expected him to be fussy after his shots. But, no, not Christian. He was just as sweet as always.
What a joy he is to have in my home. Tish and I are closer all the time and Christian has three loving and indulgent adults to dote on him constantly. Tish doesn't seem to mind having us around to help out. She doesn't realize it but just having her and Christian here is a blessing to us.
Chase is leaving in a few weeks to go to Iraq. I pray for God to protect him and bring him home, safe and whole, to Tish and to his precious, little son. Tish is naturally worried about him and talks to me frequently about it. I pray for her also, I know, she will be able to make it through this time of separation with her love for Chase and her love for the child they created together to carry her through.
He now weighs 12.2 pounds and is 22 1/2 inches long. He is eating well and the doctor was pleased with his growth.
Our only concern is he still has his heart murmur. The doctor was not overly concerned about it but he does want Christian to see a specialist. So, they are making an appointment for him with a pediatric heart specialist and will call us with the date and time.
Otherwise he is in perfect health.
We changed his formula to sensitive and it has really helped with the spitting up issues. He sleeps more soundly and for longer periods of time.
He is such a sweet baby. He loves to be cuddled, of course. But he is happy to be put down so he can look around at his world. He is sleeping through the night and rarely cries. Mostly he cries when Mommy is messing with his little nose.
He got two injections yesterday and one oral medication. I gave him some Tylenol when we got home. I expected him to be fussy after his shots. But, no, not Christian. He was just as sweet as always.
What a joy he is to have in my home. Tish and I are closer all the time and Christian has three loving and indulgent adults to dote on him constantly. Tish doesn't seem to mind having us around to help out. She doesn't realize it but just having her and Christian here is a blessing to us.
Chase is leaving in a few weeks to go to Iraq. I pray for God to protect him and bring him home, safe and whole, to Tish and to his precious, little son. Tish is naturally worried about him and talks to me frequently about it. I pray for her also, I know, she will be able to make it through this time of separation with her love for Chase and her love for the child they created together to carry her through.
Monday, March 17, 2008
What a darlin'!
And I am on vacation this week!
I get to spend every day with this little angel.
Today, he sat on my lap, took his bottle (several of them), wet his diaper (numerous times), smiled for me (a lot), watched me wash dishes and cook dinner, while sitting in his bouncy seat, enjoyed the fresh Spring breeze, while sitting on the front porch, listening to the birds sing and napped a little.
We had a very busy day and now a tired little Christian has gone to bed for the night after one last bottle and snuggle with Grandma.
He is really developing quite a personality. He smiles a lot and fusses very little. He watches everything that goes on around him. He recognizes his Mommy's voice, his Grandpa's voice and Grandma's voice. When he hears one of us, he will turn his head toward the sound.
Everyday, he is getting bigger and more alert and sweeter. He will entertain himself for a good little while, watching the lights on his soother or watching the lights and shadows on the ceiling.
He likes Mocha and smiles when she tickles him by licking his toes.
Tomorrow, he goes to the doctor for his 2 month check-up and the first of his immunizations. I will update everyone on his growth progress. I personally think he is an exceptional baby and fully expect the doctor to tell us that he is smarter and cuter than the average baby.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
One More Night!
Then, I get to take my vacation.
If everything goes according to plan, I will have 10 glorious days to spend at home!
I can get some things finished up.
Geri will be moving the rest of her belongings out, for her new life with Brian and "baby" who will be arriving sooner than she thinks.
She goes to the doctor tomorrow, so we should have a more definite idea about the due date of her little one.
Jerry is on Spring Break next week, we were going to try to go away for a few days, but the cost of gas and bills kinda put the brakes on that one. That's okay, I am just happy that we will be able to spend some time together.
Tish will be working, although I think they will be closed for Good Friday.
All in all, I will have 1o days to get my bedrooms re-arranged, everything put away and probably re-arranged a few other rooms as well. Spring Break/Spring Cleaning.
Aaron is expected to come home in April, he is going to drive down. He is planning to go through California on his way, to visit with one of his best friends. I am excited for him. He has never really been anywhere, it will be a great trip for him to drive from Washington State to Texas via California. I hope he takes his time and lots of pictures. I know there are so many things to be seen. I will have his room ready by the time he arrives home.
Just one more night. I don't have to go anywhere to enjoy my vacation, I love my home, I love my husband and family and going on a trip is not really relaxing to me. It is so much work to get ready, then there is getting the house ready before you leave, cleaning up when you get back home, and finally getting ready to go back to work. This way, I can lay around all I want to, watch TV, clean as I feel like it, I am soo... ready.
If everything goes according to plan, I will have 10 glorious days to spend at home!
I can get some things finished up.
Geri will be moving the rest of her belongings out, for her new life with Brian and "baby" who will be arriving sooner than she thinks.
She goes to the doctor tomorrow, so we should have a more definite idea about the due date of her little one.
Jerry is on Spring Break next week, we were going to try to go away for a few days, but the cost of gas and bills kinda put the brakes on that one. That's okay, I am just happy that we will be able to spend some time together.
Tish will be working, although I think they will be closed for Good Friday.
All in all, I will have 1o days to get my bedrooms re-arranged, everything put away and probably re-arranged a few other rooms as well. Spring Break/Spring Cleaning.
Aaron is expected to come home in April, he is going to drive down. He is planning to go through California on his way, to visit with one of his best friends. I am excited for him. He has never really been anywhere, it will be a great trip for him to drive from Washington State to Texas via California. I hope he takes his time and lots of pictures. I know there are so many things to be seen. I will have his room ready by the time he arrives home.
Just one more night. I don't have to go anywhere to enjoy my vacation, I love my home, I love my husband and family and going on a trip is not really relaxing to me. It is so much work to get ready, then there is getting the house ready before you leave, cleaning up when you get back home, and finally getting ready to go back to work. This way, I can lay around all I want to, watch TV, clean as I feel like it, I am soo... ready.
Monday, March 10, 2008
I'm a little sad!
I went to the grocery store this evening, to pick up some trash bags and a couple of things I needed for the house.
As I turned the corner at the back of the store, I spotted my granddaughter, dancing and twirling to the music she was making. Her dark hair flying around her sweet face. I watched her for just a moment and then turned away. I couldn't let her see me. I didn't know if it would cause a scene, so I moved on.
The last time I saw her she clung to me, hugging me and showing me every toy, Santa had brought her.
How could I explain to her that I am no longer welcome in her life? She would not understand, she only knows Grandma as someone who will play with her and listen to her chatter endlessly.
How do you explain to a four year old, why they can't see you anymore?
I am sure that her Daddy saw me there. I am also sure that he will deny it.
Maybe, he thought there would be a scene. I don't know!
It is just really a sad thing to have to pretend that I don't see.
I am not bitter, perhaps hurt, but not bitter.
I still pray for my oldest daughter and her family. Not only because that is what Christ instructed us to do. But because, that is what I truly want for them. I want them to be happy. I want them to prosper. I want them to have a beautiful life.
I have a lot of support and love from family and friends who, like me, do not understand this tradgedy. I certainly do not understand it and perhaps I never will.
In any case, when I arrived back home, I kissed Christian. I truly believe that God sent him to fill my empty arms and heal my broken heart. I melt when he smiles at me.
As I turned the corner at the back of the store, I spotted my granddaughter, dancing and twirling to the music she was making. Her dark hair flying around her sweet face. I watched her for just a moment and then turned away. I couldn't let her see me. I didn't know if it would cause a scene, so I moved on.
The last time I saw her she clung to me, hugging me and showing me every toy, Santa had brought her.
How could I explain to her that I am no longer welcome in her life? She would not understand, she only knows Grandma as someone who will play with her and listen to her chatter endlessly.
How do you explain to a four year old, why they can't see you anymore?
I am sure that her Daddy saw me there. I am also sure that he will deny it.
Maybe, he thought there would be a scene. I don't know!
It is just really a sad thing to have to pretend that I don't see.
I am not bitter, perhaps hurt, but not bitter.
I still pray for my oldest daughter and her family. Not only because that is what Christ instructed us to do. But because, that is what I truly want for them. I want them to be happy. I want them to prosper. I want them to have a beautiful life.
I have a lot of support and love from family and friends who, like me, do not understand this tradgedy. I certainly do not understand it and perhaps I never will.
In any case, when I arrived back home, I kissed Christian. I truly believe that God sent him to fill my empty arms and heal my broken heart. I melt when he smiles at me.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Tomorrow!
I start my new baby-sitting job!
Tish goes back to work, after 8 weeks of recuperating and learning to be a Mom.
She will be working Monday through Friday, 8 - 5.
That means, I get to babysit the cutest little baby in the world.
I am excited about spending so much quality time with Christian and excited about Tish being able to go back to work.
Luckily, My hours at work changed last week and I will be working nights from now on, I will be getting home in time for Tish to go to work. She will be home in time for me to take a nap before I have to go to work. It will work out perfectly.
Then, of course, there is Grandpa to help out once in a while if we need him.
No Daycare for Christian. No waking him early in the morning and dragging him out into the weather to drop him off with total strangers. No worry about making it off work to pick him up and drive home in rush hour traffic. No concerns about how to pay all the bills plus the sitter.
I think it is going to be great all the way around.
Christian gets to stay home and Tish gets to work worry-free knowing that he is with the one person who will treat him like their own.
Of course, this means no more overtime for me. That's okay, too. Jerry doesn't like me working that much anyway!
Anyway, it is all around a good plan!
Tish goes back to work, after 8 weeks of recuperating and learning to be a Mom.
She will be working Monday through Friday, 8 - 5.
That means, I get to babysit the cutest little baby in the world.
I am excited about spending so much quality time with Christian and excited about Tish being able to go back to work.
Luckily, My hours at work changed last week and I will be working nights from now on, I will be getting home in time for Tish to go to work. She will be home in time for me to take a nap before I have to go to work. It will work out perfectly.
Then, of course, there is Grandpa to help out once in a while if we need him.
No Daycare for Christian. No waking him early in the morning and dragging him out into the weather to drop him off with total strangers. No worry about making it off work to pick him up and drive home in rush hour traffic. No concerns about how to pay all the bills plus the sitter.
I think it is going to be great all the way around.
Christian gets to stay home and Tish gets to work worry-free knowing that he is with the one person who will treat him like their own.
Of course, this means no more overtime for me. That's okay, too. Jerry doesn't like me working that much anyway!
Anyway, it is all around a good plan!
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Prioritizing!
I have decided to re-prioritize my life. In the "not so distant" past, my priority in life was the well-being and happiness of my four children and my grand-children.
I have learned that making their happpiness a priority has accomplished nothing but making me miserable.
They don't want to listen to the voice of reason or experience. Of course, they are all grown and follow their own dreams as they should. But should I, as sad as it makes me, feel that I should be a part of their reasoning.
One child has already made it perfectly clear to me that I am no longer a part of her life and should not expect to be any time in the future. I suffered dearly for that one. The others are sweet enough with their reponses to my ever increasing worry over their fates. But their reponses are mostly to quiet me and do not do much to ease my anxiety.
They are grown! all of them. They are perfectly capable of making informed adult decisions over the events in their life. I guess it is time for me to retire from being a coach and a confidant.
New Priority!
Me and Jerry! My home that has been neglected for the comfort of others! My hobbies, my passions, my dreams! I know it may sound somewhat selfish, but I think it is time to be selfish.
I have figured out that, no matter how much I want it, respect and love does not come with being a good Mom. At some point it will come when those that I sacrificed the most for, discover for themselves, what it means to sacrifice. When they figure out for themselves, just what their Dad and I have given up for them. When they make those same sacrfices.
Before any one of my four children gets the idea that this blog is directed toward you, it is!
But, it is directed toward all four of you! I love you all dearly with every thing that I have inside me capable of loving. All of you have managed in one way or another to let me know that you no longer require my love!
I am just a doddering old-fashioned woman who prays, a lot.
Someday, you will know what it feels like to be me.
I hope it doesn't hurt you as much as it hurts me and your Dad.
Today, I made a decision! I am cleaning my house. I am re-arranging my life. I am going to do more for myself, and living my life more completely.
I will be here for any of you who feel that you want to talk, but I will no longer offer advice that falls on deaf ears.
I love you all and pray that God keeps His hand on you and keeps you all safe and happy in your lives. I pray for you to prosper in everything that you do. I pray that you find peace and joy in your lives and that you never suffer a moment of regret for things that might have been.
I pray for all of this and more for each and every one of you and for my grandchildren, those I love and those I will never meet. I hold no regrets in my life, I have completed my duties as a Mom, I raised my family right. Now you are all on your own. Just try to remember, your Dad and I love you.
I have learned that making their happpiness a priority has accomplished nothing but making me miserable.
They don't want to listen to the voice of reason or experience. Of course, they are all grown and follow their own dreams as they should. But should I, as sad as it makes me, feel that I should be a part of their reasoning.
One child has already made it perfectly clear to me that I am no longer a part of her life and should not expect to be any time in the future. I suffered dearly for that one. The others are sweet enough with their reponses to my ever increasing worry over their fates. But their reponses are mostly to quiet me and do not do much to ease my anxiety.
They are grown! all of them. They are perfectly capable of making informed adult decisions over the events in their life. I guess it is time for me to retire from being a coach and a confidant.
New Priority!
Me and Jerry! My home that has been neglected for the comfort of others! My hobbies, my passions, my dreams! I know it may sound somewhat selfish, but I think it is time to be selfish.
I have figured out that, no matter how much I want it, respect and love does not come with being a good Mom. At some point it will come when those that I sacrificed the most for, discover for themselves, what it means to sacrifice. When they figure out for themselves, just what their Dad and I have given up for them. When they make those same sacrfices.
Before any one of my four children gets the idea that this blog is directed toward you, it is!
But, it is directed toward all four of you! I love you all dearly with every thing that I have inside me capable of loving. All of you have managed in one way or another to let me know that you no longer require my love!
I am just a doddering old-fashioned woman who prays, a lot.
Someday, you will know what it feels like to be me.
I hope it doesn't hurt you as much as it hurts me and your Dad.
Today, I made a decision! I am cleaning my house. I am re-arranging my life. I am going to do more for myself, and living my life more completely.
I will be here for any of you who feel that you want to talk, but I will no longer offer advice that falls on deaf ears.
I love you all and pray that God keeps His hand on you and keeps you all safe and happy in your lives. I pray for you to prosper in everything that you do. I pray that you find peace and joy in your lives and that you never suffer a moment of regret for things that might have been.
I pray for all of this and more for each and every one of you and for my grandchildren, those I love and those I will never meet. I hold no regrets in my life, I have completed my duties as a Mom, I raised my family right. Now you are all on your own. Just try to remember, your Dad and I love you.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
It's been a busy week-end!
Yesterday, I joined the ranks of the human race and opened my very own checking account! It's silly, I know, but it has not been easy without one and now I feel like finances are going to be much easier managed.
I will be able to pay most of my bills on-line. That will cut out the mad, rat race every two weeks on Saturday morning, trying to get every thing done in one morning.
We took Christian this morning for his very first trip to the photographer. Needless to say, he was not very impressed. He has such an adorable personality but he was not in the mood to show off and he didn't like posing for his picture. in spite of him, we managed to get some cute pictures. We pick them up in about three weeks so I will be mailing them out to his extended family.
Jerry is still fighting off "The Crud". He is feeling better, then he feels bad, then better, then bad, then better........ Hopefully, the better will start lasting a little longer than the bad. Tish, me and the baby are all still fine.
Grandma Woodard is still in the hospital. She is doing better, not yet ready to come home.
Mom and Beth are also still fighting off the same "Crud" but they are slowly recovering.
I think, Eddy, like me, has managed to stay healthy, if not truly sane, through it all.
Thet are trying to plan a visit out here around Easter. I will be so happy to have them back.
I am not sure when Aaron will be home, hopefully we will have a date set soon, so we can get ready for him.
Geri has two more weeks before she and Brian leave for their new life.
Well, that is all the news for today. God bless you all!!!
I will be able to pay most of my bills on-line. That will cut out the mad, rat race every two weeks on Saturday morning, trying to get every thing done in one morning.
We took Christian this morning for his very first trip to the photographer. Needless to say, he was not very impressed. He has such an adorable personality but he was not in the mood to show off and he didn't like posing for his picture. in spite of him, we managed to get some cute pictures. We pick them up in about three weeks so I will be mailing them out to his extended family.
Jerry is still fighting off "The Crud". He is feeling better, then he feels bad, then better, then bad, then better........ Hopefully, the better will start lasting a little longer than the bad. Tish, me and the baby are all still fine.
Grandma Woodard is still in the hospital. She is doing better, not yet ready to come home.
Mom and Beth are also still fighting off the same "Crud" but they are slowly recovering.
I think, Eddy, like me, has managed to stay healthy, if not truly sane, through it all.
Thet are trying to plan a visit out here around Easter. I will be so happy to have them back.
I am not sure when Aaron will be home, hopefully we will have a date set soon, so we can get ready for him.
Geri has two more weeks before she and Brian leave for their new life.
Well, that is all the news for today. God bless you all!!!
Friday, February 22, 2008
It's been a little while
since I had a moment to sit down and write something so be prepared for a long one.
Jerry is well into his new job. He works pretty much opposite of me so we don't see much of each other during the week. We still have some time together on the weekends. He loves his new job and I am excited for him. I guess, once a cop, always a cop. I think it just gets into your blood and you never really leave it behind. I think Jerry has always been a police officer at heart, even before he really decided to do it. It takes a special kind of person to self-lessly risk his very life every day to protect and assist total strangers. Especially, when so many people don't appreciate you.
Jerry has always been a selfless person for as long as I have known him.
The very first time I met him over 35 years ago, he was gathering items for a benefit for an injured police officer.
Over the course of our life together he has been an inspiration to me.
He was a volunteer firefighter, a member of the park board (raising money for the improvement of our city parks), the driving force behind our youth ministry (where we helped numerous troubled teens), always willing to give a little something extra to help some one in need.
Not to mention his years of community service projects while we lived in Little Elm.
Jerry was a well respected and well loved member of the community. Everybody knew him.
Then he selflessly gave that up for me! We moved far away from everything we knew, uprooted our little family and set up our home in Van Alstyne. Even though our reason for initially doing that no longer exsists, Jerry is still very positive and supportive of me when I am feeling a little blue or depressed. We both miss our friends and our past life, but God has provided us with a new and peaceful life here. We have set down some new roots, a new church, new jobs and new friends. God is good to us ALL the time.
Geri Alice will be staying in Texas, Hallelujah!!!!!!! Although she and Brian are still moving around the first of April, they are going to Austin instead of California! I think I can live with that. Austin is a bit of a drive, but it is not too far away if she needs me. I am quite a bit happier.
She is growing a little bigger all the time. I can't wait to find out an actual due date and if there is more than one baby!
AARON IS COMING HOME!!! Praise the Lord with all my soul! He is being discharged from the Army. We are all ready to see him again. He will be moving back home for at least a while. The Lord only knows how much I have missed him these past two years. I am so thankful that he will not be going to Iraq. Again, God is good to us, ALL THE TIME!!!!
Tish and Christian are doing well. Christian is now starting to outgrow a lot of his newborn clothes. We will soon be doing some more shopping. Tish is filling out applications so she can get a job. She is trying to get a job where she works opposite hours of me and her Dad. We don't want to send Christian to a daycare! Christian's daddy is leaving soon for California, then, I think, Germany and eventually to Iraq. I pray for God to keep this young man safe.
I am doing well, I have managed to stay well through all the Flu's and viruses that are going around at work and at home. That again, is God's doing! I believe that He protects those of us who care for the ill, He needs us to do our work. And His work!
Speaking of work, it's about that time. God bless each of you who take the time to read my thoughts. I will continue to pray for Him to watch over all those whose lives I touch
every day and to keep His hand on all four of my children and their families. Amen!
Jerry is well into his new job. He works pretty much opposite of me so we don't see much of each other during the week. We still have some time together on the weekends. He loves his new job and I am excited for him. I guess, once a cop, always a cop. I think it just gets into your blood and you never really leave it behind. I think Jerry has always been a police officer at heart, even before he really decided to do it. It takes a special kind of person to self-lessly risk his very life every day to protect and assist total strangers. Especially, when so many people don't appreciate you.
Jerry has always been a selfless person for as long as I have known him.
The very first time I met him over 35 years ago, he was gathering items for a benefit for an injured police officer.
Over the course of our life together he has been an inspiration to me.
He was a volunteer firefighter, a member of the park board (raising money for the improvement of our city parks), the driving force behind our youth ministry (where we helped numerous troubled teens), always willing to give a little something extra to help some one in need.
Not to mention his years of community service projects while we lived in Little Elm.
Jerry was a well respected and well loved member of the community. Everybody knew him.
Then he selflessly gave that up for me! We moved far away from everything we knew, uprooted our little family and set up our home in Van Alstyne. Even though our reason for initially doing that no longer exsists, Jerry is still very positive and supportive of me when I am feeling a little blue or depressed. We both miss our friends and our past life, but God has provided us with a new and peaceful life here. We have set down some new roots, a new church, new jobs and new friends. God is good to us ALL the time.
Geri Alice will be staying in Texas, Hallelujah!!!!!!! Although she and Brian are still moving around the first of April, they are going to Austin instead of California! I think I can live with that. Austin is a bit of a drive, but it is not too far away if she needs me. I am quite a bit happier.
She is growing a little bigger all the time. I can't wait to find out an actual due date and if there is more than one baby!
AARON IS COMING HOME!!! Praise the Lord with all my soul! He is being discharged from the Army. We are all ready to see him again. He will be moving back home for at least a while. The Lord only knows how much I have missed him these past two years. I am so thankful that he will not be going to Iraq. Again, God is good to us, ALL THE TIME!!!!
Tish and Christian are doing well. Christian is now starting to outgrow a lot of his newborn clothes. We will soon be doing some more shopping. Tish is filling out applications so she can get a job. She is trying to get a job where she works opposite hours of me and her Dad. We don't want to send Christian to a daycare! Christian's daddy is leaving soon for California, then, I think, Germany and eventually to Iraq. I pray for God to keep this young man safe.
I am doing well, I have managed to stay well through all the Flu's and viruses that are going around at work and at home. That again, is God's doing! I believe that He protects those of us who care for the ill, He needs us to do our work. And His work!
Speaking of work, it's about that time. God bless each of you who take the time to read my thoughts. I will continue to pray for Him to watch over all those whose lives I touch
every day and to keep His hand on all four of my children and their families. Amen!
Friday, February 08, 2008
Every once in a while,
I have a few minutes to actually get on the internet, updatw my blog, and check my e-mails. I guess I should do it more often. I got an e-mail that literally made me physically ill. When I learned of it, I got so sick, I had to leave work.
I am better now.
Prayer and my faith in the Lord is what gets me through times like this and I feel as if I can function today, so I am going to move on.
I do have wonderful things happening in my life.
Christian is growing bigger every day. His little personality is so sweet.
He smiles a lot now. He recognizes his grandparents voices.
When Jerry or I arrive home from work and he hears us speaking, he turns his little head and tries to find us.
I am so in love with this little guy.
I am excited about tomorrow, I get to babysit him while Tish gets a well deserved "Mom's Day Out".
She has not been out with friends for almost a year.
I think she is going to have a blast. I know I will!
Geri found out that Brian's Dad was a triplet! How Cool! Tish and I have been teasing her terribly about having twin boys! What about triplet boys! That is an exciting idea! Hopefully, she and Brian will be back in Texas before the baby is born. She is going to need our help getting into the swing of the "Momma" thing. Taking care of the baby is the easy part. Taking care of yourself is the hard part.
Jerry is loving his new job. It is quite a change for him, only working four days a week. It is so sad that he will have three days a week to go fishing. What a tradgedy!
I am still not so excited about my new hours at work. The sleeping in in the mornings, is not too bad but I miss out on a lot.
Well, Ive got stuff to do and the little man is calling my name.
Catch you all next time!
I am better now.
Prayer and my faith in the Lord is what gets me through times like this and I feel as if I can function today, so I am going to move on.
I do have wonderful things happening in my life.
Christian is growing bigger every day. His little personality is so sweet.
He smiles a lot now. He recognizes his grandparents voices.
When Jerry or I arrive home from work and he hears us speaking, he turns his little head and tries to find us.
I am so in love with this little guy.
I am excited about tomorrow, I get to babysit him while Tish gets a well deserved "Mom's Day Out".
She has not been out with friends for almost a year.
I think she is going to have a blast. I know I will!
Geri found out that Brian's Dad was a triplet! How Cool! Tish and I have been teasing her terribly about having twin boys! What about triplet boys! That is an exciting idea! Hopefully, she and Brian will be back in Texas before the baby is born. She is going to need our help getting into the swing of the "Momma" thing. Taking care of the baby is the easy part. Taking care of yourself is the hard part.
Jerry is loving his new job. It is quite a change for him, only working four days a week. It is so sad that he will have three days a week to go fishing. What a tradgedy!
I am still not so excited about my new hours at work. The sleeping in in the mornings, is not too bad but I miss out on a lot.
Well, Ive got stuff to do and the little man is calling my name.
Catch you all next time!
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Finally!
First, my computer has been acting up. I haven't been able to get on the internet.
Then, Jerry gets that fixed, and my keyboard has decided not to work.
It has been a bit discouraging, so tonight I decided to borrow Jerry's computer.
It's catch up time.
Christian is growing and growing. He has started to grow into some of his newborn clothes.
He is developing a personality.
He is such a sweet baby. He rarely cries. Of course that is probably because every time he squeaks, somebody picks him up. New babies are fun to spoil.
He is taking 4 ounces of formula every 3-4 hours.
His little arms and legs are filling out.
Tish is doing very well. She has lost all of her baby belly and is finding that her clothes that fit her prior to her pregnancy are just a little loose now.
She is a great Mom and takes excellent care of her tiny son.
Jerry starts his new job Monday. His first love has always been law enforcement and now he is getting the chance to get back into it. I am excited for him. He has lost a lot of weight and has a real problem keeping his pants up lately. We will have to invest in some new clothes soon.
Geri Alice is also a big news item. She is expecting her first child in August or September. She and Brian are leaving for California in March and are planning to get married in Vegas on their way out there. She is planning on returning to Texas before the baby is born and settling down somewhere near the rest of her family.
Krysta and Cotton are having a bit of a rough time right now. He just had surgery on his shoulder and is recuperating at home.
My heart goes out to them, Jerry and I know well the difficulties of raising small children on a limited income and the worry of trying to make ends meet. We are praying for them nightly. We would like to be able to help financially but we too are struggling to keep our heads above water.
Aaron is doing well, he misses all of us and wants to come home and meet all the new members of the family. Hopefully, he will be able to visit while the babies are still small enough to fit in one of his big ole hands. What a picture that would be, Christian in one hand and Samuel in the other. I remember my Daddy and my Grandpa Allison having those same big hands.
Speaking of grandparents, on my way home fom work last night there was a program on the radio, where people were calling in and telling stories of how their grandparents had influenced them. That really brought up whole lot of sweet memories for me.
I think the most influential person in my childhood was my Mom. She taught me perserverance and patience. She showed an amazing dept of strength throughout all of the trials she experienced during my growing up years. She also taught me that love for your husband is so much more than just saying the words.
Now, about my grandparents. My Grandma Woodard is still with us and lives next door to my Mom. She is an absolute fountain of Faith in the Lord. She lives every day as close to Him as she can get. From her, I have learned that Faith and Prayer are continuous needs in our lives. That the Lord is ever present and hears us.
I was 9 years old when my Grandpa Woodard died. I am sure that my memories of him are clouded somewhat by the imagination and fancy of a child. But they are my memories, and I chose to keep them intact, just as they are. From him, I remember laughter. I learned to be myself with him. He expected nothing more and nothing less. He made me feel special and unconditionally loved. A favorite memory is the little spider monkey that he somehow aquired. The monkey's name was Sam. I remember Mom making a little quilt and embroidering his name on it. Grandpa was pretty fond of his little friend.
My Grandma Allison was a quiet and ever patient presence in our lives. She was not a very attractive woman but I saw her as beautiful. She had hair so long she could sit on it and would let me brush it. She did everything the old fashioned way. She raised her own chickens and fried them up for Sunday dinner. That takes some patience. She canned her own vegetables and made biscuits from scratch. She had a quilting frame and pieced together her own quilts and made doll clothes for me on a treadle sewing machine while I sat at her feet and pumped the foot peddle.
Grandma Allison taught me the beauty inside oneself and the satisfaction of creating wonders, like fig preserves, with your own two hands. Grandma Allison died when I was 6 years old. The lessons she taught remain in my heart always.
My Grandpa Allison, oh my, what can I say about him. I saw him as a giant. He was over 6 feet tall. Not at all obese but definately large. He taught me the miracle of holding a newly hatched baby chick in your hand and let me touch the unbelievable softness of their yellow feathers.
He taught me the wonderful feeling of power, when you feel as if nothing can touch you. That is what it felt like to me as a small girl sitting astride one of his cutting horses, bareback. As a matter of fact, I was so convinced of my own strength and power, I talked him onto letting go of the lead and that old mare took off running down the highway with a terrified 6 year old on her back. I held on to her mane and when she quit running, Grandpa caught up to us and praised me for holding on so tight. He knew how to make me feel powerful (and how to give my poor Mom a heart attack). His death when I was 9 along with the death of my Grandpa Woodard was a very traumatic event in my life.
From all of my grandparents, I learned very important life lessons. I learned how to be myself, how to love unconditionally, how to have Faith in the Lord, patience, and the beauty in the simple.
I have learned that there is satisfaction in completing a task with your own two hands and that the old ways are not so out-dated or useless as we modern people would like to believe.
I choose in my life to slow down just a little bit and enjoy my life. Spend every moment I can with those I love.
Thank you all for your patience, if you made it all the way through this long blog.
Thank you, Mom. For giving me the opportunity to learn from each of my Grandparents.
Then, Jerry gets that fixed, and my keyboard has decided not to work.
It has been a bit discouraging, so tonight I decided to borrow Jerry's computer.
It's catch up time.
Christian is growing and growing. He has started to grow into some of his newborn clothes.
He is developing a personality.
He is such a sweet baby. He rarely cries. Of course that is probably because every time he squeaks, somebody picks him up. New babies are fun to spoil.
He is taking 4 ounces of formula every 3-4 hours.
His little arms and legs are filling out.
Tish is doing very well. She has lost all of her baby belly and is finding that her clothes that fit her prior to her pregnancy are just a little loose now.
She is a great Mom and takes excellent care of her tiny son.
Jerry starts his new job Monday. His first love has always been law enforcement and now he is getting the chance to get back into it. I am excited for him. He has lost a lot of weight and has a real problem keeping his pants up lately. We will have to invest in some new clothes soon.
Geri Alice is also a big news item. She is expecting her first child in August or September. She and Brian are leaving for California in March and are planning to get married in Vegas on their way out there. She is planning on returning to Texas before the baby is born and settling down somewhere near the rest of her family.
Krysta and Cotton are having a bit of a rough time right now. He just had surgery on his shoulder and is recuperating at home.
My heart goes out to them, Jerry and I know well the difficulties of raising small children on a limited income and the worry of trying to make ends meet. We are praying for them nightly. We would like to be able to help financially but we too are struggling to keep our heads above water.
Aaron is doing well, he misses all of us and wants to come home and meet all the new members of the family. Hopefully, he will be able to visit while the babies are still small enough to fit in one of his big ole hands. What a picture that would be, Christian in one hand and Samuel in the other. I remember my Daddy and my Grandpa Allison having those same big hands.
Speaking of grandparents, on my way home fom work last night there was a program on the radio, where people were calling in and telling stories of how their grandparents had influenced them. That really brought up whole lot of sweet memories for me.
I think the most influential person in my childhood was my Mom. She taught me perserverance and patience. She showed an amazing dept of strength throughout all of the trials she experienced during my growing up years. She also taught me that love for your husband is so much more than just saying the words.
Now, about my grandparents. My Grandma Woodard is still with us and lives next door to my Mom. She is an absolute fountain of Faith in the Lord. She lives every day as close to Him as she can get. From her, I have learned that Faith and Prayer are continuous needs in our lives. That the Lord is ever present and hears us.
I was 9 years old when my Grandpa Woodard died. I am sure that my memories of him are clouded somewhat by the imagination and fancy of a child. But they are my memories, and I chose to keep them intact, just as they are. From him, I remember laughter. I learned to be myself with him. He expected nothing more and nothing less. He made me feel special and unconditionally loved. A favorite memory is the little spider monkey that he somehow aquired. The monkey's name was Sam. I remember Mom making a little quilt and embroidering his name on it. Grandpa was pretty fond of his little friend.
My Grandma Allison was a quiet and ever patient presence in our lives. She was not a very attractive woman but I saw her as beautiful. She had hair so long she could sit on it and would let me brush it. She did everything the old fashioned way. She raised her own chickens and fried them up for Sunday dinner. That takes some patience. She canned her own vegetables and made biscuits from scratch. She had a quilting frame and pieced together her own quilts and made doll clothes for me on a treadle sewing machine while I sat at her feet and pumped the foot peddle.
Grandma Allison taught me the beauty inside oneself and the satisfaction of creating wonders, like fig preserves, with your own two hands. Grandma Allison died when I was 6 years old. The lessons she taught remain in my heart always.
My Grandpa Allison, oh my, what can I say about him. I saw him as a giant. He was over 6 feet tall. Not at all obese but definately large. He taught me the miracle of holding a newly hatched baby chick in your hand and let me touch the unbelievable softness of their yellow feathers.
He taught me the wonderful feeling of power, when you feel as if nothing can touch you. That is what it felt like to me as a small girl sitting astride one of his cutting horses, bareback. As a matter of fact, I was so convinced of my own strength and power, I talked him onto letting go of the lead and that old mare took off running down the highway with a terrified 6 year old on her back. I held on to her mane and when she quit running, Grandpa caught up to us and praised me for holding on so tight. He knew how to make me feel powerful (and how to give my poor Mom a heart attack). His death when I was 9 along with the death of my Grandpa Woodard was a very traumatic event in my life.
From all of my grandparents, I learned very important life lessons. I learned how to be myself, how to love unconditionally, how to have Faith in the Lord, patience, and the beauty in the simple.
I have learned that there is satisfaction in completing a task with your own two hands and that the old ways are not so out-dated or useless as we modern people would like to believe.
I choose in my life to slow down just a little bit and enjoy my life. Spend every moment I can with those I love.
Thank you all for your patience, if you made it all the way through this long blog.
Thank you, Mom. For giving me the opportunity to learn from each of my Grandparents.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Two Weeks Ago:
At this very moment, Tish was driving herself home from Mesquite, little realizing that she was in labor.
She was hurting so bad and wanted to hurry up and get home to Mom.
When she arrived, we timed her contractions for a half an hour and I decided we needed to go to the hospital and get her checked out.
Upon our arrival, she was sent to the labor and delivery floor and eight hours later gave birth to a beautiful baby boy.
Needless to say, he has taken over just about every aspect of life in this house. Funny thing is, no one really seems to mind.
Grandpa and I can barely take our eyes off of him. Every little squeak and grunt is a new wonder.
He responds to our voices, when we talk to him and he smiled for his grandpa tonight.
Tish is a wonderful and doting Mother. She is tuned in to what every little noise means.
She takes excellent care of her son. Occasionally she will allow me to feed him or change his diaper if she is eating or taking a shower, but usually, I just get to be Grandma. I get to hold him and play with him any time I want. She and Christian wait up for me at night and when I get home from work at around 10:30 p.m. I get to snuggle him for a little while before I crash for the night.
Christian has definately brought something special into our home.
God is so good.
I love all of my grandchildren. I wish I didn't have to work this hard shift.
I would really like to see more of Jacob and Lucy. I remember when they were little like Christian and all I wanted to do was hold them and gaze in wonder at how perfect they were.
Of course they are still perfect and even more fun, now.
Jacob is so smart and intuitive and Lucy is so loving and sensitive.
Every child that is born is a blessing and every grandchild, a miracle.
I am so blessed to be able to share in the lives of so many miracles.
She was hurting so bad and wanted to hurry up and get home to Mom.
When she arrived, we timed her contractions for a half an hour and I decided we needed to go to the hospital and get her checked out.
Upon our arrival, she was sent to the labor and delivery floor and eight hours later gave birth to a beautiful baby boy.
Needless to say, he has taken over just about every aspect of life in this house. Funny thing is, no one really seems to mind.
Grandpa and I can barely take our eyes off of him. Every little squeak and grunt is a new wonder.
He responds to our voices, when we talk to him and he smiled for his grandpa tonight.
Tish is a wonderful and doting Mother. She is tuned in to what every little noise means.
She takes excellent care of her son. Occasionally she will allow me to feed him or change his diaper if she is eating or taking a shower, but usually, I just get to be Grandma. I get to hold him and play with him any time I want. She and Christian wait up for me at night and when I get home from work at around 10:30 p.m. I get to snuggle him for a little while before I crash for the night.
Christian has definately brought something special into our home.
God is so good.
I love all of my grandchildren. I wish I didn't have to work this hard shift.
I would really like to see more of Jacob and Lucy. I remember when they were little like Christian and all I wanted to do was hold them and gaze in wonder at how perfect they were.
Of course they are still perfect and even more fun, now.
Jacob is so smart and intuitive and Lucy is so loving and sensitive.
Every child that is born is a blessing and every grandchild, a miracle.
I am so blessed to be able to share in the lives of so many miracles.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Update on Christian!
Here's a couple of new pics of our handsome little man.He is doing well.
We took him to the pediatrician yesterday, he has a slight heart murmur and the doctor wanted to follow up.
The doctor said it is very slight and pronounced Christian healthy. He is eating, sleeping and doing all the other things a 4 day old baby should be doing at 4 days old.
I love watching Tish care for him. She is a wonderful Mommy. I never had any doubts that she would be.
She is feeling okay, although, I think the adrenaline rush is starting to wear off. She is beginning to feel some discomfort. Her milk has come in, she is bottle feeding, so there isn't really a way for her to ease the fullness right now. The doctor gave her some pain medication 
and it helps.
and it helps.Besides that, she is still having some back pain. But, I think that is related more to our outing yesterday, than to anything else.
She insisted on carrying Christian in his carseat rather than let me carry it for her and I think she overdid it a little.
His next appointment is scheduled for Tuesday morning.
Jerry will be starting a new job next month. He is returning to his number one love. Law Enforcement. I am glad for him. I believe that he is most happy doing that.
I am also starting a new position. I am going to go back to the floor. I will still be working Mon-Fri.
Still have week-ends off. And I will be home in the mornings to help Tish. Geri Alice has been working at her new job for several days now and seems to be enjoying it. It is perfect for her. She is not a morning person and she now works 1p.m. -9p.m. Good hours for her.
Krysta, Cotton and the kids came over to see the new baby. Jacob and Lucy held him. The were so cute. You could see the wonder and awe in their faces. I know they are going to be so sweet when their little brother arrives in a few weeks. Christian and Samuel are going to be so close in age. I have a feeling when those cousins get together there will always be a show going on.
Life is beautiful right now. Everyone is healthy, happy and mostly content.
We are blesssed with an abundance of children, grandchildren, good jobs, comfortable homes, and the love of our Lord. We have our faith and our health. We have a loving and beautiful family. What eelse could we possibly need in this world.
Thank you, Lord for all the MANY BLESSINGS in my life. I give to you all the praise and glory.
I am a happy woman!
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