Grrr...Updated

I want Mexican food REALLY BAD!

It's not in the budget.

I don't want to cook dinner tonight...

Going out is not in the budget!

We have plenty of food in the house and most of it is not hard to make but I don't want to cook and I don't want to clean up the kitchen and I just want to be lazy.

But it not in the Budget!!!!

Budgeting stinks!

****THIS IS ALSO A BIT OF A PREGNANCY FRUSTRATION****

So I had a major pity party. I cried and then I cooked dinner. Dan was willing to take me out to make me feel better but I know that if I did that I wouldn't feel better it would be a Bandaid fix. So I made Basil Parmesean chicken with pasta...and it was good. Wasn't completely what I wanted but it was tasty, filling and so far hasn't given me heartburn.

Budgeting may stink but so does making huge mistakes with your money. I am thankful for the opportunity to grow through this whole thing and not let my hormones and other pregnancy related frustrations get the better of me!

Ready??? Or Not Ready???

I have roughly 7 weeks to go with this pregnancy.

People ask me if I am "ready". The answer is Yes and No.

I am ready to have my body back.
I am ready to not have a little boy jumping on my bladder and kicking and waking me up at night to use the bathroom what feels like a hundred times.
I am ready to sleep on my stomach again.
I am ready to not have to remind Jaron to not hug me so hard or to be careful while around me.
I am ready to be able to wear shoes with laces again.
I am ready to put my socks and underwear and clothing on without feeling like a contortionist.
I am ready to meet this little guy and get to know him.
I am ready to see how he will fit into the family dynamic.

I am NOT ready with the baby room. So far I have a changing table dresser, pack and play bassinet and that's about it. I still need a crib and mattress and to arrange and clean the room
I am NOT ready for labor...dreading the birthing process again.
I am NOT ready with enough clothing for baby to last a week. I really need to get on this.
I am NOT ready with meals and the like....gotta plan ahead with easy to fix stuff.
I am NOT ready to juggle a newborn with the needs of an 8 year old boy and 10 year old girl. I know the big kids will be a big help but I am concerned if I will be a good mom to all of them.

So I am working on getting ready. I am making lists and tackling small jobs as I have energy to do them. I am thinking through the whole process and investigating affordable furniture options for the babies room. I am feeling like I don't have what I need and not sure where the best deals can be found. I'm just not quite ready for baby. Thankful for a few more weeks to get ready.

Wordless Wednesday

Jaron gets a Haircut!

We Buzzed Jaron on Sunday Night! His hair was out of control and when I tried to trim it I made it worse and Dan couldn't take it anymore...So we got out the clippers and shaved him down! He looks much better now! I took a few pictures of the process of shaving his head!

Jaron half way through the job says..."Mom go get the camera...I look too funny!"
Once we were done Jaron grabbed his hair off the floor and was like...quick glue it back on!

He really isn't this upset...he was hamming it up for the camera...and then ran away before I could get a good picture of the finished product! Such a silly boy!

Blessed by my Big Kids!

Jaron just got done taking the trash downstairs to the trashcans and then he rolled both trash cans down to the curb! This is his job and he does it with his whole self! Full of gusto and life! Thanks buddy for helping out mom and dad this way!

Janea is right now sorting the laundry for me and starting a load of darks with her dad's pants in it while I am cooking dinner...she knows how to do it...and she's hungry for dinner! Thanks Janea for being such a mature young woman and so capable! You made my afternoon easier!

I love how the lessons we have taught them are starting to pay off in dividends.

Creating a New Normal

I resigned last week effective Friday.

Baby J and working are not a good combo right now. The tables kept getting lower, the kids kept getting louder, the contractions and pains wouldn't stop so I resigned 2 weeks before the time I was going to.

It was a good thing...my health and Baby J's health are more important than any job and my job as wife and mother are also more important than being a teacher.

So now I get to learn how to be a SAHM. I get to figure out how to fill my time before baby comes. I know that once baby is here I will have plenty to do and then the big kids will be out of school before we know it and then we will have to learn again.

It's weird. Yet it's also nice. I really didn't sleep well. I kept dreaming that I was on this rollercoaster and I literally was getting dizzy and felt like the bed was spinning. Turns out I was really hungry...hadn't eaten a lot of dinner and the orange I had at bedtime wasn't cutting it anymore! So I got up around 4 to have a snack...and then it was time to get the family off to work and school...Dan's starting to brownbag it again to save money and I needed to help him get his lunch together. So by the time I got Jaron to school and got home again I was pretty tired...so I ate breakfast(toast and oatmeal) and then I took a nap. And I feel much better.

So today I have napped, eaten, worked some on our taxes...Federal are completely done and I am working on the state ones...grrr...taxes...done some additional research on carseats and pricing and taken a shower. I also plan on working on the laundry and getting the kitchen more organized...but I may work on that tomorrow! I'll have time...I don't have a job anymore!

Resting

So Saturday night I came down with the flu.

It's been a doozy of a couple of days. I have felt terrible, horrible, no good, very bad. We didn't make it to church on Sunday and by Sunday night I seriously was concerned as I was having bad pain in the upper right side of my uterus. Plus, Baby J was kicking there a lot and the discomfort was unbearable...so I called the nurse hotline and was advised to go in if the pain continued. Well, changing positions helped alot and by the time I went to bed the pain had subsided enough to sleep.

Monday I had a Doctor's appointment and described my symptoms. The doctors did a protein swab test to see if I am at risk for preterm labor and an internal exam and so far the contractions I have off and on are not causing baby J to come...no dilation or thinning of the cervix(sorry if to much TMI). He did prescribe a muscle relaxant and recommended that I take it easy and be on bedrest as much as possible. However, I can be up some, and I can still drive so it's not total bedrest. I have a pulled muscle from coughing and it's causing contractions

Today I spent sleeping...and resting....for like the whole day. If I could just stop coughing I think I would feel better. So I am resting...resting, resting...and while I am starting to feel better I am also just a tiny bit bored with the whole thing....I've wanted to get to rest and now that I am here and I am wanting to do something else...oh the fickleness of life!

My feet

I'm looking forward to seeing my feet again.

I'm looking forward to not being a contortionist to get my socks on!

I'm looking forward to being able to easily clip my toenails and put on nail polish again.

I'm looking forward to wearing shoes that tie!

I''m looking forward to them not hurting as much!

I miss my feet...only 9 more weeks till I see them...hopefully less!

Step by Step

Step by step I'm getting closer to the finish line at work.

I have 3 weeks and a day left.

My belly feels like it gets bigger everyday.

The tables and chair feel like they are getting lower everyday.

The hours while constant seem to get longer everyday.

I truly think that the kids in my class are getting crazier everyday.

I'm ready to not worry about work for awhile.

I'm ready to be able to take a nap when the urge hits me.

I'm ready to get ready for baby.

Step by Step we're approaching the finish line...and the starting point of the next great adventure!

A Cloud

I looked out the window this morning and realized it was foggy.

It's like we live in a cloud.

The neighborhood trees are hard to see.

The ground is disguised by a white haze.

It's really cool...Weather is truly amazing and never boring...even if I don't always like the cold and snow!

I'm thankful that God made weather and the complexities of it...and I apprecitate it so much more when I'm not stressed out by it!

Better Double Check

ME: Jaron got your shoes on?

Jaron: Check

Me: Got your backpack with purple folder, lunch and library books?

Jaron: Check

Me: Got your coat on?

Jaron: Check

Me: Bubbe...better go and check your pants...

Jaron: Why?

Me: Look down...I think your pockets are in the wrong place!

Jaron: (Looking down, seeing pants on backwards...)Now how did that Happen?

Me: HAHAHHAHAHAHa....aren't you glad I had you double check.

Jaron: hahahahahaha.....Mommmmm...thanks mom I love you....

And that's this morning at our house...hope you put your pants on the right way!

Registered

I went to 2 different Targets today to work on Baby J's registry.

Our local Targets system was down so then I drove over to the one on State Line and 135th. I had to get a few things at Target though so we did that at our local before heading to the other. Jaron needed new pants and new shoes and then they had these nice shirts for a nice price so I got him one of those too.

Janea got chocolate and Dan got glue...I got nothing but that's okay.

So we are registered for things we may need for the baby. I chose Target because it's pretty nationwide and reasonably priced. It's weird to be looking for things for a baby again.

Countdown

Yesterday I moved into the 30 weeks of my pregnancy...so that means I have 10 or less weeks to go until Baby J is here....scary and exciting all at the same time...we have so much to do before he gets here and now we only have a short time to get it all done.

Today is Friday and once I leave work today I will only have 4 more weeks at my job...then I will be unemployed(again). However, this time it's our choice to not have me work and since I don't feel like my current job is a great fit I truly won't be overly sad about leaving. I will miss some of the kids and I will miss some of my coworkers but I won't miss the crazy hours or the stress of snow days, sick kids or the like. They sent out a letter on Wednesday about me leaving and most of the parents took it really well, but one is like dumbfounded that I won't be coming back after 4-6 weeks. I don't get these people sometimes.

The weather is warming up and we're in the countdown for Spring. I really didn't expect to have the winter that we have had this year...it's been insane in January and February..so much snow! The kids have had maybe one full week of school this semester...Trying to juggle work schedules, snowdays and the like has been HARD...and STRESSFUL. In 4 weeks whatever happens I will be home and able to take care of it. Until I go to the hospital to have the baby then we will add newborn stress to life...but newborns will grow up and we will just need to get a new schedule in place!

I was really upset yesterday about the snow...tears and the like...my mom is such a blessing and not only helped me to calm down but also helped me to evaluate what it is that I am truly uspet about that is making the snow days that much harder. She thought is was Fear and Anger...and she is right. I am afraid of losing my job earlier than I planned because I am afraid for how we will make it once I am not working. I am putting money aside to use when I am not working and I am afraid that if we don't have that then things will be extra hard. However, I am not TRUSTING that God can meet my every need. He says that HE will do that...but I am so fearful that I am forgetting. I'm also afraid because I was not thinking of having anymore kids. Here we are 10 weeks away from having a BABY in the house...that's scary...I'm afraid I can't do it anymore. It's terrifying in someways. I also have ANGER...I'm angry that the school I taught at last year is closed. I loved teaching there and was passionate about my work and that was taken from me, not of my choosing but someone elses. I know that God works things out and that it was a good thing to close due to situations that are coming to light now but I am still ANGRY at the selfish people who made that choice that I felt was unfair. I'm struggling through it but I see the light at the end of the tunnel...it's there...God is in Control and He will do what HE will do. Thanks Mom for making me do some Soul searching over the last day or so...I slept better than I have in awhile and I think it's because I let go of some of my Fear...felt good too!

So that's my thinking in a nutshell...this post kinda got away from me and if you made it through my ramblings and hodgepodge of thinking great. It feels good though to see it and express it in written form though...so here's to the next 4 weeks at work and the next 10 weeks(hoping for 8) before little Baby J comes!

Thanks Mom

My mom is my hero this morning!

The kids school got cancelled again and I got stressed out by it all again and I called her in an upset panic. She not only listens to me when I cry but she also is taking time off work to watch the kids until my babysitter is available.

I love my mom!

Thanks Mom for all you do for me...even now that I am a big crybaby grownup!

Registering

So I am trying to register for Baby J.

My friends at church are being generous and hosting a shower for me. The only problem is I don't know what to register for.

There are so many choices and when you try and do it online you don't know a store item from a online item and wow I spent over an hour today and maybe registered for like 10 thing...most of them baby towels...those I know I'll need!

So I have posted for help on Facebook and now I'm posting for help here...what types of things do I need.

I have:
pack and play
swing
bedding set
some flannel receiving blankets
some diapers and wipes
working on carseat...trying to get a really good deal from Diapers.com

I know I will need more diapers, wipes and the like...pretty familiar with brands too since I work in childcare...but I need ideas for other things I may need. I'm really out of touch with the baby side of things and I get really overwhelmed.

Thanks for the input...I can really use it!

Love is...

Taking turns sleeping in the uncomfortable spot so your spouse gets a decent night sleep.

Putting dinner in the oven so that we eat earlier.

Making sure your spouse has nice clean clothes for work.

Being aware of the emotional needs of the other even if it seems irrational to you.

Driving to the ghetto to find that deal that you have researched online...when you don't really want to.

Harder sometimes to fathom and easier other times to express

Fingers and Toes

So our little one is all fingers and toes...or knees and elbows.

His favorite spot right now is right behind my belly button and the upper part of my stomach.

Boy is he strong!

My stomach is feeling super tight right now....it's such a weird feeling!

Emotions

My emotions have been running crazy over the last few days.

Emotions are a hard thing to understand. It's amazing to me to see how little things can make you an emotional basket case.

Case in point...I've been feeling stressed and overwhelmed with the reality that in 11 weeks or less we will have a baby in this house. I'll be a SAHM of 3 kids, and life will be totally different. I'm also really unprepared to have this baby in the house...we are nowhere ready and I think...how is this going to happen. So I have been stressing. Makes one tired to stress and yet I have been stressing about it. Mostly I've been stressing about where the baby will sleep and how we will be able to bring him home.

Last night we went out and got one thing that will help to alleviate my stress. We now have a pack and play complete with bassinet, changing station and storage area. This is a load off because now the baby has someplace to sleep when he comes home. I also have found a way to get a good deal on a carseat so that is a relief as well, we will be able to bring him home.

Another thing wreaking havoc on my emotions is how I feel physically. Today I was EXTREMELY TIRED! I went to bed normal time and as usual had some trouble falling asleep and then got up to use the restroom more times than I would have liked. When I was really sleeping well around maybe 1;00am I think Dan had a nightmare or something because he ended up pushing me almost off the bed waking me up...and then I couldn't fall back asleep because I was hungry. I got up and got something to eat but I made a not smart choice and ended up with heartburn and so I couldn't fall asleep until 5:30 andthen I woke up at 7 when the kiddos got up...I had moved to the couch. SO I was tired, and very weepy today. Dan was gracious and gave me space to take a nap and it was so good...and I think I will try and go to bed early tonight so that I can rest.

I'm hoping for a less emotional week. It's hard with all these extra hormones from being pregnant but I have to make it through. Some good countdowns...11 weeks until my due date and 5 weeks until I get to "retire" for awhile.

What a Week!

In case you live under a rock or in a Sunny warm area where snow is a non issue let me tell you...I just lived through my second blizzard! The weather this week has been interesting to say the least and I am so looking forward to Spring...here's a look at our week.

MONDAY:
I took the kiddos to school...there was some slight freezing drizzle, the roads weren't bad but there were slick spots so you had to be careful. I came home and did a few things since I wasn't going into work until later due to an OB appointment for my 28th week of pregnancy. Dan made it to work with no problems and all in all it was a normal day for us. I get to the doctor, get all the stuff done that I need to do and have my glucose test....hate the stuff they make you drink for this test...ick! My doctor says something about making sure I'm careful and everything and that I should probably just stay home since there is a 100% chance of snow for the next day and a blizzard warning. Well, I spoke up and said that it would help if I had a doctor's note excusing me from work since pregnancy and driving are not the best combo and my company would be more understanding if I had doctor's recommendation to stay home...and he wrote it. The kids ended up with a early dismissal and then Dan worked later than normal...let me just say that our Babysitter in the afternoon is totally awesome! I get home and then learn that the kids school is being cancelled for the next day which I was totally expecting and I get ready to plan for a quiet day at home watching the snow fall....Dan prepares to leave for work earlier and we have a contingency plan set up for him to possibly stay near his work for the evening if the roads are bad.

TUESDAY:
Dan and I wake up early...Dan leaves early for work and makes it before it really starts snowing. The kids and I prepare to be home. By 8:30 we can't see the road pavement...it's snowing steadily and I am thankful to not be driving in the weather. At 10:45 I get a call from Dan saying that they have closed his company for the day and that he is on his way home. He gets home by 12:30 and we enjoy a nice lunch together...it was a lazy afternoon watching the blizzard blow in and seeing the weather and wind change....we were kinda mean parents and sent Jaron for the trash cans in the middle of a heavy patch of snow! Dan and I got naps...that evening Dan and I call his company and find out that we all have a snow day for the next day...in fact my work closed on Wednesday as well. We enjoy a family movie night that night and look forward to sleeping in.

WEDNESDAY:
We start the process of digging out. Our house has a super long driveway that runs the length of the house to a cement pad in the back where the garages are and so it takes a LONG time to shovel...so long in fact that we techincally haven't totally finished. Both cars were in the garage too so we had to clear enough room to get the cars out of the garages. We worked for many hours and still didn't finish the job...we get a call that the kids don't have school for Thursday too. This starts the great debate of who stays home with the kids and what to do..Dan decides its his turn and that he will drive me to work after getting the van out.

THURSDAY:
Dan gets the curb clear and gets the van out so he can take me to work. Then he and the kids spend the afternoon clearing the walk and enough room in the driveway to park the two cars. I went to work and found out that I had no kids on Tuesday so I totally felt better for not being at work...the conditions were really bad...Dan picks me up from work and we enjoy a pizza dinner at Pizza Hut.

FRIDAY:
School is back on and it's a normal day. Dan goes to work and then gets a flat tire. So on my lunch break I have to head to the bank and do a balance transfer so Dan can get four new tires for the van. Again very thankful for the babysitter who was able to watch the kids longer than normal. I get home totally exhausted. The week really hit mehard and the baby was very active all day causing me pain. Add to the pain uncomfortable chairs and hard floors and I feel like I am totally done.

Only 5 more weeks of work....I really hope there are no more snow days....I'm beyond exhausted from all the planning and detail arranging. Being 29 weeks pregnant makes for slower movements and added tiredness...plus I'm often starving.

Looking forward to a less busy weekend and couponing grocery trip...and some good naps!

Still Working on It

Well, my trip wasn't quite as successful as I had hoped. For just food we came under budget but with the other stuff we needed at Walmart we were about 30 dollars over our anticipated goal. But considering that we did need non food essentials I would say 30 dollars isn't real bad.

We also hit CVS...to use our Extra Bucks...love getting Shampoo, conditioner and diapers for FREE!!! It's hard to believe we are buying diapers again but we must...baby is coming soon.

Also went to Home Depot...Dan had a gift card from Christmas and enjoyed looking at seeding stuff for plants and we got another shelf unit to use in the basement!

All in all a most successful shopping day!

Having A Plan

The last few weeks I have been couponing and while I LOVE saving money I get overwhelmed in the store and struggle with figuring out what I need to buy.

Well, this week I will attempt to grocery shop without getting overwhelmed.

I organized the pantry and list by thing I know that we need.

I listed on my grocery list all the items and the quantity of each one and brand that I need to redeem my coupon.

I also have a good idea of how much I will save before going if I use all my coupons.

Once we get to the store Janea and I will tackle the shopping and Dan and Jaron will get the non perishables and some other non couponing stuff we need...Janea is in charge of the calculator and keeping track of our spending. If all goes to plan we should be well under budget.!

5 Things...Senses Edition

Right now I am...

1. Smelling the oatmeal cooking in my rice cooker! I love cooking oatmeal this way!

2. Hearing my husband on the treadmill downstairs, my click clack keyboard, and my kids in the other rooms.

3. Seeing...the dishes that need to be done...I must load the dishwasher tonight.

4. Feeling...the little baby in my womb do back flips and somersaults...seriously this kid can move.

5. Tasting...well, not this minute but in just a few I will be enjoying a big bowl of hot oatmeal covered in Raw Brown Sugar....it's so good...and just what I wanted for dinner tonight!

Noise

My kids are noisy...

They are either Loud or REALLY LOUD!

This poor baby is going to have to learn to sleep through lots of noise or they are going to have to learn to be quieter!

AUUUUGHHH!

Things that Make you Really Thankful

Today I found out that one of my students mother has a new kidney and can now swim with her...

I knew this mom had health issues but at the same time you don't want to ask what type of health issues they are...well, I now know that this mom has been on dialysis and on the wait list for a new kidney for over a year...WOW! I complain about being pregnant and tired and stressed but I don't have the same issues as this family.

The student is adopted and I thought that her mom was simply a single mom well I also found out today that her husband died about 4 years back....while they were in the process of adopting...

So I am thankful for my health, my beautiful family, my loving husband and for all my aches and pains...they are nothing compared to what others are facing!

Spring Where Art Thou?

Spring....I long for you.

Spring...I look forward to your arrival.

Spring...you will melt this snow.

Spring...the season when our new arrival comes.

Spring...you can't get here soon enough!

Love a Good Deal

I got in the mail this week a mailer with coupons for restaurants and the like.

Well, there were coupons for Great Clips and 4.99 haircuts. On the page were 2 coupons! So I planned on us getting haircuts this weekend. This morning Janea and I headed out to get our hair trimmed.

I got a half inch off and Janea got an inch off and her's shaped. She looks a lot better and I feel a lot better about mine.

Total cost plus tip for 2 hairdressers: 13.98! So I saved over 15 dollars!

YEAH ME!

On a different note, between the coupons we have clipped the last 2 weeks and the sites I have found for coupons online I saved $12 dollars at the grocery store this week! I'm feeling good about it too...now if I can just keep it up!

What to do??

Okay, here's the deal...what type of carseat should we get for the new baby.

Our options for infants are a Carrier type for early on and the Convertible carseat.

I'm torn really between the two. We did use a carrier for the older two kids and it worked very well until they were like 4 months old, then it was heavy, awkward and a pain and we would go and get a convertible seat.

The convertible seat would work from birth to probably around 3. They are more cost effective but then you have the hassle of needing to carry them around, but since I am thinking about using a wrap or a sling anyway it would probably not be as big a hassle...I could have hands free movement in stores or at church and not be lugging an additional 20 pounds of carseat around with me. Plus we have the big kids to help us carry stuff...and a good stoller would work too.

I could really use some other's opinions about what works for you and your thoughts regarding car seats.

Seriously???

I woke up this morning, turned on the Morning News and the first thing I see is that Belton has cancelled school for the day.

There has been a little bit of drizzle and the roads are slicker than normal but haven't they ever heard of something called a 2 hour delay???

Now I am scrambling once again to try to find a babysitter and see if I can make it into work for the afternoon...also trying to figure out what to do since the kids probably won't have school since snow moves in to town tomorrow night...

I'm not enjoying this weather!

A Lazy Saturday

Don't you just love a lazy Saturday? I know I do.

Today has been one of those good type days...

I woke up early but wasn't feeling up to getting up so I lounged in the bedroom and dozed for another couple of hours.

I took a SUPER long shower, with all my girly products and did my best shaving my legs...it's getting harder with the baby belly, then enjoyed hanging out in the warm bathroom as I got dressed and took my time with all the other stuff you need to do to keep dry skin at bay during winter.

This afternoon we took a long trip to Walmart and got the grocery shopping and meal planning done for the week...took a long time but that's okay...we had the time.

Tonight I will fold some laundry and get the laundry going again for next week...it's pizza night so we have Take and Bakes and Frozen pizza so dinner is super easy tonight...my kind of meal!

I also got the kitchen floor mopped and Dan's got some stuff started for a recipe he's going to make tomorrow...all in all a good day!

5 things

1. So glad that the kids had school for 2 days this week! I think they could have gone on Wednesday but I'm not in charge. I stayed home Monday, Dan Tuesday and we had a babysitter for Wednesday....I'm glad life is getting more back to normal.

2. Budgeting is HARD. I really want to not take my lunch to work today and just go out for lunch but I've already used my "mad money" for the week so that is not an option. So I will take some leftovers and deal with it but I'm not really happy about it.

3. It's COLD...I'm looking forward to warmer weather and SPRING!

4. 26 weeks and counting....I've got roughly 14 weeks to go if I go to term and I am so Ready for them to fly by...baby J is getting much more active and sometimes he kicks so hard it really really HURTS!

5. It's FRIDAY!!!! I'm so glad that it's FRIDAY!!!! I'm looking forward to staying home tomorrow and relaxing and getting the house back into a better shape!

The Art of the Deal

We watched a show the other night on TV on people who are considered "Extreme Couponers". Honestly, the deals they got were amazing...and yet at the same time they have so much stuff stockpiled that its just a room full of stuff, a burden at the same time as being a good deal. Well, it started Dan and I into thinking about other ways to save money.

In March I will be quitting my job and start being a SAHM. The cost of infant care and the big kids day camp costs are more than I would be bringing home in income and why should I pay someone to watch my kids while I am taking care of other peoples kids and not bringing home any income in the process...so it makes since to "retire" from the classroom and be with my family...at least until August when I will try and find a different job. With my quitting we will be tightening the budget belt and trying to get the most bang for our buck...and we are practicing now...my income now goes for paying the babysitter and helping to build up an emergency fund for when I am not working.

Well, we started at CVS...I am always impressed at the deals I see where people are being more or less paid for the good they buy there...well we went today and though we did spend a little bit initially we did leave the store with $20 in "Extra Care Bucks" that we will be able to use for other purchases at CVS...when paired later with other Extra care deals we will basically be getting paid for shopping there...can't beat that! It does take some planning but at the same time it is kind of exhilarating!

We did use coupons at Wal-mart today too...and we saved around $8.50 off the total bill...we will continue to clip coupons and try and find the best deals and see if we can start saving more money weekly.

I will say this...it may take the kids some time to get used to the fact that we are changing our habits and looking for the best options for a good deal. They are used to us eating out more and not being as careful...but at the same time I think it is good for the kids to see that we are working on being careful stewards of the money that God has entrusted to us and striving to use it wisely! It's all about living different now so we can live better later. It's a good lesson for us all.

Bump Check 25 weeks

So here I am in all my pregnant glory. The Bump is getting bigger! I've now outgrown 2 pairs of maternity pants and the ones that are low rise are officially uncomfortable. I really look forward to coming home and putting on comfy pj pants! Also, taking pictures in a mirror is a little bit challenging!

FRIDAY!!!!

Hip Hip Hooray!

It's Friday!

I'm so glad that I'll have 2 days off!

Also the countdown is on for when I "retire" for awhile from teaching...after the end of today I will only have 9 more weeks of work!

I'll then have the kids Spring Break with them and then I will get 5 weeks(if I go to term, which I am hoping I don't) for nesting, adjusting to being a SAHM and getting ready for Baby J.

YEAH!!!!

wants vs needs

This pregnancy is challenging to me in many ways. One being cravings for different foods.

Tonight for instance...I so WANT a McDonalds Vanilla Milkshake smothered in whipped cream minus the cherry...It sounds so good and yummy and I want one...like RIGHT NOW! Now, I could be whiny and pitiful and send Dan out tonight to get me one. However, I'm not. It's not in the budget, it's a minor thing and he's worked hard today and is tired. It's not a Need...we have food in the house, we have yummy things that are good or better for me than a Milkshake...but I really do WANT one... but i don't NEED one...it's such a challenge.

The whiny pitiful side of me really wants to send him out for a milkshake, the pragmatic side of me is saying no...and I feel kinda stuck in the middle...

So I'm drinking Hot Chocolate, used up the last of the whipped cream and thinking of other things I can eat that are sweet...

Pregnancy is so hard at times...

Quality Time

Dan and I don't get a ton of quality alone time...and even now when we are alone there is technically a child with us! Well, last night we got to enjoy an evening meal alone without the kids...it was nice! Plus we had a date night on Sunday so we are enjoying getting to hang out together more!

I got off work yesterday at 6:26 and proceed to call home like a do every day. Wednesday's are AWANA night and our Financial Peace class is now over so we don't have anything to do while the kiddos are at AWANA. So I told Dan tht I was starving and we should go get a bite to eat after he drops the kids off..and we did. Nothing fancy...Taco Bueno...but good food and the ability to talk through our day and enjoy each other's company without the kids.

After eating he dropped me back off at church(where I left my car) and I hung out and chatted with friends until AWANA was over...and we were home by 8:35! Worked out great! Eating a meal where I wasn't rushed recharged my batteries a little bit too! I slept like a log last night!

ByeBye Christmas

Yesterday I took down the Christmas Tree and most of the Christmas Decorations.
Yesterday was the last day of Christmas break for the kiddos.
Today we are back to a "normal" routine!
Today we are all back to school or work.

So long Christmas...see you next year!

Best laid Plans

I have the day off today and for the past week I have made plans for what I wanted to accomplish. However, I'm having a tired day...and being pregnant a tired day means that I need to REST.

I don't want to rest today. I want to get my to do list done! I want that sense of accomplishment that comes with getting things done...but if I push myself too hard it's not good for me or the baby. So I am doing a few things than resting...then doing a few more things and then resting...and if I don't get the list done so be it...we'll see how much I do actually accomplish today!

Pregnancy Update

I had another Ob appointment today. Dan and the kiddos went with me so Dan could meet the doctor and the kids could hear the heartbeat. First appointment that Dan has made with this pregnancy.

Here's some quick stats.

Measuring 24 and 1/2 inches fundal height

Heartbeat 160.

my blood pressure was 122/78 (which is kinda high for me but I am the only one who seems to be concerned)

and I gained 5 pounds in 4 weeks...which is also a good thing.

So we have roughly 16 weeks to go...we'll see when he makes his appearance!

Happy New Year!

Wow! I can't believe it is 2011 already!

2010 was a rough year for me...a good year filled with many good things. However, at the same time 2010 has been a year of changes for me...here are some of the changes from 2010.

1. JOB My school closed...so I went job hunting...to a job that I really don't like...it's hard to go from a job that is your passion to one you just tolerate!

2. HOUSING--okay this one is a good change...we bought a house this past year! I love my house and all our space! It's a GREAT change... but with the house comes different bills and a mortgage payment that is a bit higher than our previous rent payment.

3. BABY!!!--the biggest and I think most mindboggling thing to me is that fact that I am PREGNANT...8 years after thinking I was done we are being blessed with another addition to the family. This pregnancy and working the hours that I do is also very hard on me physically. I am still in a sense of HUH?? alot...even with an independently moving belly!

So I've been thinking of goals and things for the upcoming year as I have a fresh slate as it were ahead of me...so here's what I am thinking.

1. Budgeting...we took the Dave Ramsey course at church this past fall and it's given us the tools to use to make sure we are being good stewards of all God is giving us...now we need to apply it and live within a monthly budget...we are getting better but there is still room for improvement.

2. Baby...to have a good and safe delivery. To adjust and welcome this new little one into our family with no reservations and hopefully everything we need!

3. Kiddos...to help Jaron through the adjustment of changing schools next year, to being the best mom I can be to 3 kids not just 2. To balance the emotional needs of each child at each of the developmental levels that they will be at.

4. My Marriage...to continue to be the help that Dan needs...to realize that he is a good willed person and I just need to understand that men and women are different...to appreciate all that he does and not focus on the things that I think he isn't doing for me...to love and meet his needs whatever they are...to listen and relate and share what we are feeling together.

5. JOB--To find a new job in the fall or be a stay at home mom...I am most likely going to be leaving my current position in March. I don't feel like it is a good fit for me nor do I feel like they understand where I am coming from and the hours are not good for the family. SO I will take a good chunk of time off to have the baby and adjust to life and then hopefully find a better position for next year.

So that's where I am at this January 1, 2011. It was a good year in many ways in 2010 and yet I have room to grow and develop as 2011 unfolds...so adios 2010...welcome 2011

Christmas Vacation...How I miss you

I miss getting days off between Christmas and New Years.

I miss the time to recharge my batteries.

I miss hanging out with my kids enjoying things we got for Christmas.

I miss it.

I really do.

*Sigh*

Silent Night

We had a very meaningful service at church tonight.

Sang my favorite hymn in the dark by candlelight.

It makes me cry to think of a tiny baby born to die for us.

I love Christmas and the beauty of the Candlelight and the meaning of it all.

Christmas Spirit

I've been feeling a little Grinchy this Christmas.

I work with kids who get everything they want. Their parents spend more on childcare in a month than we spend on our mortgage payment. They have no concept of not having their basic needs met...and it's left me not feeling the most cheerful.

We celebrated the HOLIDAYs at school...couldn't leave any holiday out and yet in reality we left out Christmas. We did the trees, snowmen, stockings, wreaths but the True meaning of Christmas the giving of a Savior...that wasn't talked about at all...was even frowned upon.

Dan and I have never done Santa with our kids...they know that there was a man named St. Nicholaus who gave presents to those less fortunate but they know that he was a man. This man loved GOD and wanted to show God's love by giving to others. There is no man in a big red suit who lives at the North Pole and gives presents to good girls and boys with his magic reindeer. We watch the movies because they are fun and cute but my kids know there is nothing real about it.

Today my focus is on the Saviour coming to give the ultimate gift. The light of the World. My focus will be on giving to others because I have been given so much. My focus will be on others and not self.

The Avatar and a Sleeping Daddy

What I hear...

right now...

the cartoon Avatar playing on TV...

Dan snoring...

it's a cold and sleepy night!

Wiggly Belly

My belly can move on its own.

It jumps and launches.

It's the weirdest sensation.

It's even had the hiccups

It keeps getting bigger.

It's really firm too.

I have my own little shelf!

"Holiday" Program

We're having our "Holiday" program tomorrow...not a Christmas Program a Holiday Program.

The kids will sing Christmas songs...about Santa, Trees, and Bells...no nativity at all.
We will sing a Hanukah song...no baby Jesus in the manger.

A "holiday" a time where kids get lots of stuff but miss the one thing that they really need...and I can't really talk about it...I read a book about the Baby in the Manger today and not one of my kids could tell me what that meant...

I'm missing the joy of Christmas and the celebration of the Birth of a Savior...where I work it's all Santa and stuff...no joy...just stuff.

It's really Sad...and empy feeling...I'm thankful that I have joy in my CHRISTMAS...its more than just a Holiday!

The Little Things

The little things make me happy!

Dan got my garage door opener programmed last night...poor guy was in the freezing cold garage with just a little space heater perched on a stepstool and when he finally got it to work the heater and the garage door opener on at the same time caused the fuse to blow! So he was then cold, with the door slightly up, on a stool in the dark! Poor thing...we got the lights back on and it WORKS!!!!!!!!!!!

This morning, my work pants were still in the dryer...I had washed them last night but ran out of time to get them in the dryer...and Jaron needed to go to school so I took him in my jammies...and I didn't get out of the car once! It was so nice!

Thank you Dan for fixing the door! I love you!

Pictures from the weekend

Here's my view as I look down at my ever expanding belly!Our beautiful Christmas Tree!
My Mantel all decorated for Christmas and lit up!

The mantel not light up...still pretty!

Working Momma Woes

I'm a working Mom.

I've been a working mom for most of my kids lives and for the most part it works for us.

It wasn't working this morning.

I had a big ol helping of Momma Guilt...over my current work hours.

I've been blessed in the past to have job hours conducive to school hours. Also I have had the privilige of having my children in the same school where I teach. This is no longer the case.

The kids are now home before me...way before me.

Janea really doesn't like my hours or having a babysitter in the house...She does love our babysitter but it's not the same as having mom home.

She laid the hurt down pretty hard this morning.

My feelings were very hurt, and the wound of working late was very raw this morning.

I'll admit it, I broke, cried, and wanted to do nothing more than quit...but I didn't quit.

I will be able to quit around the time of the baby but for now I am where I am. With lousy hours...that are hard, but we will make them work. I'm blessed to have a job...even when the blessing doesn't seem that great

Awwww...

I got home last night from work and found this....

Dan had found one of my gloves in his car and left me a message....I love you too Honey!

ugh...ugh...ugh...

that's me grunting like a caveman.

I was up for about 2 hours last night with gastrointestinal distress.

I was glad when it passed.

I did get some sleep but I am quite tired this morning.

On a completely different note...
my oldest and youngest seemed to switch places this morning.
Janea was all about getting up and ready and Jaron was being a little slothlike this morning...usually it's the other way around.

I just realized Jaron really isn't the youngest anymore...I'll have to find something different to call him...

Went shopping online for baby bedding...it's stinkin expensive! I don't know what we are going to do...I just know I am not spending a ton on bedding that the kid probably won't even appreciate....just so I can have a cute room for him.

We think we have a name...and I am being outvoted...the kids LOVE it...Dan likes it and I guess I will have to get used to it...Janea and Jaron are already calling him by this name so I guess that's that!

Dan's been sick all weekend...he's been like a hibernating bear...staying indoors, grunting alot, sneezing and coughing...I feel bad for him...he's been kinda out of it this weekend. He's off to work today and I hope he feels okay.

Jaron's better...just a virus I guess...but he did enjoy getting to go to my sonogram with me and my Mom.

Well, the baby is kicking and I just realized I gotta get my lunch ready for work...off I go...

Over Already???

Is the weekend already over?

Weekends are never long enough...especially when they are full and busy!

Saturday:
I had Christmas Cantata practice in the morning.

We ordered pizza for lunch...Papa Johns...super yummy!

I took a nap...love it!

We got ready to go run some errands...we went to the bank and things...and then decided that we should go see the lights at Christmas in the Park at Longview Lake....so pretty, so fun...such a long wait! Usually when we go the wait isn't too bad, this year it was longer than usual or just seemed longer since I needed to go the bathroom about halfway through...having a little person jumping on your bladder like a trampoline makes for terrible bathroom pains! So on the way out we stopped at CVS! So I could go potty!

Played Monopoly Streets as a family!

Sunday:
Church I love worshipping with my church family

Lunch: Taco Bueno...so yummy

Shopping with Janea: Got her a few new tops and a pair of pants, some girl stuff and a present for a family member!

Resting for a while!

Grocery Shopping...Walmart was insane!

So tonight I will take it easy and relax and prepare for the week ahead!

Outnumbered

Janea and I soon will be outnumbered. The male population will be increasing in April....the results of the sonogram is.....

BOY!!!!!

I will try to post pictures soon...need to scan them in on my parents computer...we don't have a scanner!

Thanks I needed That!

I've not been feeling real good this week.

I've been tired, crabby, not sleeping really well, and just feeling blah!

I won't call in sick for general yuckiness or anything...that isn't what sick days are for. Plus, I don't want to take advantage of my works generosity in giving time off. And they are good about trying to be accomodating for doctor's appointments or stuff like that. I did really want to call in and just have a chill day but I couldn't justify it and I wasn't really sick and if I called in sick that would be lying and that is wrong.

Jaron got sick this week. Out of the blue. Fever, coughing, ear goop, the whole nine yards! So I called in to stay home with him...a valid reason to stay home! So Jaron...thanks for getting sick! It was nice to have a day off yesterday and a morning off today...I think I needed it...I'm feeling more rested and not as yucky!

Is it wrong to be thankful for sick children?

Halfway There!

So I am 20 weeks today.

A "normal" pregnancy is 40 weeks...this means that today I hit the halfway mark for the baby!

However my two previous pregnancies ended at 38 and 37 weeks.

So I'm over halfway there!

Tomorrow is our Ultrasound to find out the growth of the baby and how it's doing...tomorrow I hope to know if the "it" is a boy or a girl. We'll be happy with whatever comes...It's getting a little bit more real. Baby J was being Ninja baby this morning!

I'm still in shock that I am pregnant!

Oh Dear

Got home from work tonight and found that Jaron was sick with a fever.

Looks like someone wont be going to school tomorrow...and I may get my day off that I've been wanting!

I'm praying that they are understanding about the kiddo being sick tomorrow!

A Few Questions

Question #1: Why is it that I have to write out the schedule for everyone and no one else can keep track of it?

Question #2: Why don't I feel good today?

Question #3: Is it wrong to eat Reeces Pieces for a mid morning snack on your way to work?

Question #4: Am I a bad mom for not making the boy wear a coat to school since he left his good coat at school yesterday afternoon and refused to put on his not good coat?

Question #5: Why do I have to go to work today? Can't I just stay home and rest and sleep?

Thanksgiving Break

We hosted my family for the first time in 7 years! I was nervous about the day but it went very smoothly. The meal was yummy, the conversation good and the table looked pretty!

The afternoon was spent cleaning the kitchen, my family getting to check out the new house and with a group game on the Wii.

It was a delightful Day!

Friday my mom, sister and I went shopping. We weren't searching for any Doorbusters but got some good Early Bird specials. I picked up some much needed new maternity clothes which makes for more comfortable dressing...plus I feel like I look much better in clothes that fit my changing frame.

Saturday was spent cleaning my bedroom. I made some major progress putting clothing away in drawers though most of mine are going into storage for awhile because it's depressing to have stuff not fit. Saturday afternoon Dan began working on Jaron's room in the basement. He made major progress and worked hard even while I was gone to an engagement party for a friends daughter. I had a lovely time catching up with friends and Dan got so much done. I will post pictures very soon...on all the stuff that happened this weekend.

I enjoyed my time off from work so much and I am not really looking forward to going back tomorrow but Holiday's are a short time and reality sets back in. It's all good. I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving Season!

The neverending feeling

I hate moving because it seems like you are working FOREVER to get everything into boxes.

I hate moving because it seems like you are working FOREVER to unpack all of the packed boxes....

It seems like a neverending cycle! I know this too shall pass but when your in the middle of it all it's craziness!

Aaahhh...

That's the sigh of relief from me...

I am done working until Monday....and boy am I glad!

Tomorrow, we are cooking and hosting my family for Thanksgiving. Looking forward to it.
Tonight I am going to hang out and relax....hoping for a better nights sleep tonight.

Thankful for Thanksgiving and getting to relax at home!

Well Duh!

I'm sitting at the computer, getting ready to complain that my feet really hurt when I look down and realize that I haven't yet taken off my shoes!

I bet my feet will feel better once I have my shoes off!

I'm so spacey at times!

Thankfulness

Jaron had a to write what he is thankful for in school last week. I found the following in his Friday folder:

"I am thankful for many things. I'm thankful for God. Without him you will be nothing. I'm thankful for school. It helps me learn alot of things like math. I am thankful for all that I have."

I love that he is thankful!

Blessings

Family is a blessing.

We received a special blessing in the form of a housewarming gift from Dan's Aunt Naomi. She sent us a generous gift and the added blessing of family memories. It's wonderful to have people who love us so much and are so generous to us. Dan made it a point to purchase lasting durable goods and upgrades for the house such as a programmable thermostat, rugs, shelving, etc. Thank you Aunt Naomi we will be sending you pictures of the kids and house soon.

A Good night

Last night was rough...I had a long day, some miscommunication and was beyond exhausted. Made for a not fun night.

Tonight...got off work a few minutes early, no traffic on the highways tonight, and got home to dinner cooking. Dan put the frozen lasagna in the oven and it was ready soon after I got home. I now have a belly full of lasagna and garlic bread, feeling content and happy. Ready to chillax with my family so that I can get lots of stuff done tomorrow!

I'm so thankful for my family!

What a Week!

It's only Thursday but I feel like it should be SATURDAY!

I'm tired...super tired....overly tired. I'm sleeping but I don't wake up rested. Not sure as to why, probably has to do with our busy schedule and the baby but who knows.

We have had an eventful week...

Monday Janea missed the bus in the morning...we didn't get out the door in time and the bus drove right past the house....so parent drop-off involved 2 schools! Well, she rode the bus home and got dropped off at the stop far from the house and was walking home when the bus driver stopped the bus and asked her where she actually lives and when she told the bus driver the driver said that she can now be picked up right across the street from the house! PTL! Now I don't have to drive her over, its across the street and if we are running a little behind schedule she can still run and make it! Dan also has made it his mission to have us accomplish a small project everyday afterwork...which is fine...except I think that's why I am more tired in the evenings.

Tuesday was a long day...full of crabby children, and poor listeners in my classroom. I have kids in my class who think that they run the world. It's hard too because we cater to a clientle that is richer than most and so their kids get everything they want and are a little spoiled...to the point of rottenness sometime. It's all I can do to bite my tongue and not get more frustrated than I already am...I so need a different job.

Wednesdays are long days...and yesterday was a VERY long day. I took Jaron to school as normal and then went in to make sure that he got his picture taken...it was retake day and he had missed picture day because he had Strep. Then I went to Target to look for a new coat for the boy as his hoodie isn't super warm and he isn't wanting to wear his winter coat yet...I found a nice fleece jacket that is warm and cozy on Clearance! WAHOO! I also picked up another longsleeve larger shirt to wear under my work shirts. So I didn't go home after dropping off the kid and then I went to work and worked till 6:30 and then we had our Dave Ramsey class last night so I didn't even get home until almost 9:00...made for a very long 11 hour day!

So I'm hoping for a good day today. Looking forward to coming home and resting tonight...I may go to bed before the kids...who knows!

So weird

So I'm feeling the baby and its not kicking per se....its more like a giant lump of Jello jiggling in my stomach...I don't remember this feeling with the other kids....I am starting to feel kicks and movements but the constant jiggling is kinda creepy in a weird way!

Monday Musings

What a day!

I'm exhausted!

Praying and hoping the week flies by!

Wanting to complain but knowing I shouldn't.

Looking forward to bed.

Thankful to be home!

Mornings

Mornings are an interesting time at our house.

During the work week, Dan is the first one up and getting ready for work. He is out the door by 7:00 in the morning...often earlier. I wake up at the same time as him but due to my work schedule I don't have to fight him for the bathroom or anything so I just relax and hang out and get ready for my day. The weekends are different, as I often get up before Dan and he stays in bed longer than me!

Jaron's alarm clock goes off at 6:45...no matter what day of the week. He hasn't figured out yet that you can TURN IT OFF on Saturdays and Sundays! He turns the alarm off and then he is out of bed...often moving to the living room and hanging out there before he gets ready for school or church. He is a morning person I guess...about half an hour after he wakes up he is ready for breakfast! His morning routine is predictable and comfortable for him!

Janea on the other hand...is approaching teendom. She could sleep for a year! I often have to wake her up because she has turned her alarm clock OFF...and rolled over to go back to sleep! She is the one that I have to prompt and prod to get out of the bed...one I have to remind to get dressed and inform that we are leaving sooner than she thinks! It's challenging but I will say that she does get up when told and she hasn't yet missed the bus or anything because of oversleeping!

And then theres me...lately I can't sleep much past 5:45. I am either starving or really needing the bathroom and then I can't fall back asleep! So I am up early these days! I guess its good training for when the baby comes!

Differences

This pregnancy is majorly different from my other two.

I understand that I am pregnant. My body is changing and growing. I'm starting to feel movement and realize there is another person going to be joining our family but I think I am still a little bit in denial. I just can't wrap my around the fact that we are having a baby. There is going to be a little person in our house in just 23 weeks. This person is going to need constant care, constant watching, and I need to redevelop my baby mode.

I'm also feeling a little lost...I have forgotten what types of things a baby needs. I know what my big kids need. I'm into big kid toys and gear. I don't want to overload my house with baby gear and yet I want to have the stuff that I will need to make sure that our life continues to go smoothly. I have been looking at baby gear online and on my word there is so much stuff for babies...I know we don't need MOST of it...but I'm feeling overwhelmed at where to start and by how much everything costs!

With the other two I was excited and into baby mode...now I'm feeling overwhelmed and nervous...can I really be a mom to a baby again? How will this kid fit into our family? What types of adjustments will there be? It's a little overwhelming at times...

Well, I'm off to unpack more boxes and organize our life so that hopefully by the time this little one joins us we will be settled and ready for it's arrival...I'm also looking forward to December 3rd when we hopefully get to find out the gender so I know whether to call this baby a he or she! If you have any suggestions of what you as a mom can't live without gear wise I would love some suggestions of where to start! I have a swing and I know we will need a pack and play but past that it's been about 8 years since I have shopped for baby gear and I would love some help as I really am feeling a little flummoxed by it all!

Freedom

Freedom isn't Free.

It's bought with a price.

The price is the lives of those who serve our country to protect our freedoms.

Thank you to all who serve.

Thank you for the sacrifices you make.

Thank you for all you do.

I appreciate you.

Yummy

Today I treated myself to lunch at Panera....had the Baked Potato Soup and it was SOOOO good.

Looking forward to more opportunities to enjoy yummy soups and stews as the weather is getting colder and I have an oven that is working!

Updates

Hey everyone...so sorry that I have been off line for awhile but we have been a little bit busy recently. Here's the rundown of the busyness that is our lives:

1. We bought a HOUSE!!!! Wahoo! Upon finding out we were pregnant we decided that we would need more space with the baby coming and after much praying and seeking decided to try for a mortgage...and WOW! God provided! We qualified and started the house hunting process...we found a house that we like for a great price and then we were in a bidding war for it...not our cup of tea so I just happened to go online that night and found the house that we are in now...made arrangements with our realtor and fell in love with this house. We made an offer, were accepted and now we are working on moving in....the mortgage process and closing took a toll on me but that's now in the past and life is moving on.

2. Pregnancy Update...I am now 16 and a half weeks along. The heartrate for the baby is 158-162...and nice and steady. I'm starting to show and have had a few people who don't know me ask if I am pregnant. I'll start posting bump shots soon...clothed bumpshots...my belly isn't attractive! I go for my sonogram and hopefully get to find out the gender of the baby on December 3rd...the votes for gender are as follows: Erin and Janea want a girl, Dan wants a boy and Jaron wants a baby! I think Jaron will be happy no matter what! It's definitely a baby! I'm feeling much better and getting some energy back...my sciattica is bothering me alot and I'm in pain in my hips but hopefully that will pass or I will find ways to deal with it.

3. The job....its a job still...I just transitioned into a new class....and boy are they YOUNG! I now have a lot of 3 year olds and they are such babies...its challenging and fun too...I have a good group of kiddos. The hours are still a pain but I am adjusting to them and its fortunate that I go in late since I now drive Jaron to school in the mornings.

Well, that's a little of what is going on...I'll post pics of the house soon! We are blessed and thankful for all that is going on with us!

Yesterday

This little house became ours...so if I am off the web for a few days I have a lot to do and no internet...I'll post more pictures later...we are very excited and very blessed!

What....October is Over?

Time is moving quickly.

I'm not moving quickly.

I'm hoping that the thing I want to get done gets done today.

I'm scared of all that I still need to do today.

I just realized it's not October anymore but November....it's crazy!

I'll keep you posted....life is moving much too rapidly!

Praying and Hoping and Wishing and Dreaming

Praying: I'm praying that everything we need paperwork wise gets done today and that we get the greenlight to close on our House tomorrow. Everyone still seems hopeful so I am hopeful...Dan's not worried at all so I am worrying for both of us...I'm praying for peace and rest today!

Hoping: The boxes and remainder of our stuff will be easily packed. That we can get things moved easily.

Wishing: Full of wishes for a full and happy life for the upcoming year and the new home for all of us to live in.

Dreaming: Of the future, of the things ahead...life is excited and stressful all at the same time. Everyone keeps tells me not to stress but it is really hard!

Happy Birthday Jaron!

8 Years old Today

You are a fun-loving

Videogame playing

laughing and giggling

excelling 2nd grader

Full of life!

We love you BUDDY! Have a wonderful day and a full year of being 8 years old!

Things that make me say MMMM

Here are a few of the foods that make me very happy right now...

1. Dark Chocolate Hot Chocolate topped with extra creamy whipped Cream! (soo warm, soo delish)

2. Raisens...don't know why but they are really good...

3. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches....need I say more???

4. Honey Nut Cheerios...not wet, dry!

5. Apples, and Cranapple juice...so good...makes me happy!

Whew....is it 6:30 yet?

What a week!

It's Friday finally! Hooray! I'm in love with Friday's...they are the best day ever! I just wish it was 6:30 on Friday...that would mean I am done with work for the week...instead of almost 8:00 in the morning and I am getting ready for work. The kiddos have school activities tonight so it will be a busy evening too.

My job is improving some, I think it helps that I don't feel quite so bad all the time anymore now that I am in my 2nd trimester. My energy is coming back and that is helping with my mood. I will still not say that I love my job...its just a job... and I don't feel like I am doing anything really extraordinary or using my full teaching skills at all but its regular income and it's not the end of the world. I have some really challenging students and I am thankful that they will be transitioning up to the next class in a week! Then a get some new kids and it should hopefully be a different room dynamic and I am hoping a good one. Right now we are working on trying to figure out how long I have to stay at the job before the baby so that I can be a stay at home mom for a while....probably not forever, but for a while...

Jaron's birthday is TUESDAY!!! He is over the moon excited about turning 8!

Baby J is fine...I think...I'm starting to feel flutterings and such...it makes it all seem so much more real. I also am able to eat more and not feel sick all the time and that is a big help...the yuck taste in my mouth is also leaving and for that I am so grateful! Being pregnant in my 30's is nothing like being pregnant in my 20's.

Thursday may be a big day for us...I'll keep you posted....

Well, I have to go and eat and get ready to leave for work soon...I still wish it was the end of the day rather than the beginning but oh well!

The Countdown

Jaron is counting down the days until his birthday! 6 to go and then he is eight!

HE IS SO EXCITED!!!!!!!

A few Good things

A chilly morning....a cool house for sleeping...and rest.

An overly excited daughter, a field trip to meet an author today at KU and a husband who can take her to school at 6:50 in the morning!

A happy young man, excited about video games and the day ahead who is just 7 days from turning 8 who is full of spunk and exuberance this morning!

Less back pain this morning, a cup of dark chocolate hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and a quiet house for an hour before heading off to work!

The sovereignty of God, the trust I need to have, the confidence that He is in Control! A good reminder for this October morning!

The Morning

The morning is interesting in our house.

One child(Jaron) gets up, does his thing, eats breakfast, and gets ready for school without a whole lot of prompting.

The other child(Janea) doesn't get up, has to be reminded frequently to get out of bed and the rushes to get out the door in time to meet the bus.

It used to be the other way around, but now its switched! Its craziness!

I look forward to them both getting up and not needing a whole lot of prompting from dear old mom!

Things that make me go UGGH!

1. Children who procrastinate on their schoolwork even though you ask, and ask and check and ask, and ask...Janea put off finishing her technology project until the night before it was due and then had a panic attack. She worked for 2 hours past bedtime and is finishing this morning...now I am helping her edit and type it. So I went to bed really late and got up really early!

2. Programs that have unrealistic requirements and don't specify the guidelines.(more on this later)

3. Early mornings and being out of Cran-apple juice....I'm addicted right now to Cran-apple juice and this morning I am drinking Cran-grape juice and it's not the same...

4. Chilly mornings and cold feet...maybe I should go put on socks!

5. Random statements by people who are actually not talking to you but to the computer, the television or the radio.

My Blah Blogging

I feel like I've been complaining alot on the blog.

I'm sorry...I've not really been myself. Life has hit me with both barrels and I haven't always responded with graciousness...I've been whining and complaining about it.

I'm approaching my second trimester. I'm also starting to feel better physically. I'm not as tired as I was...I still do get tired easily but I am not drop dead tired. My general feeling of yuck is also lessening, for which I am very grateful.

Our life is still moving super fast and there are some BIG changes on the horizon. I will elaborate more as we get closer to the change and have completed the process. It's exciting and tiring all at the same time.

I'm starting to adjust more to the idea of the baby. I'm not excited yet but I am also no longer filled with dread. This was so unexpected and I really thought I was done with the baby phase of life that it really has taken me awhile to adjust to the reality of it all. I'm still apprehensive and stressed by the idea but the shock is wearing off...especially now that I am beginning to show and stuff. Cutting back on caffiene and not being able to eat foods I really like has also been a really big challenge for me. My doctor has told me that a little bit of caffiene daily is not dangerous but I have to be careful not to go overboard. So I am working on moderation of it all.

Well, it's early morning and we got to get out the door soon for school. I'll be back more often and posting more and hopefully whining less. Thanks to my peeps who have been reading and I hope to do better.

An Ode to Friday

Friday...how I love you!

You are what I look forward to on Monday!

You get me through Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday!

Your here today and I am glad...means I only have 8 hours of work left before the weekend.

You make me happy!

Pregnancy Update

Had an Ob appointment on Monday.

Here's what's going on.

In the last month I have lost 5 pounds.

I am further along than thought...by like 3 days. So I am approaching 12 weeks along.

My blood pressure is on target...not too high not too low.

Heard the heartbeat! It was nice and steady at 164 beats per minute. It's anyone's guess at this point whether its a boy or a girl. Old wives tales say if the heartbeat is over 160 its a girl but that's really not always true...it is the gender it is supposed to be and we just have to wait and see what this new little person will be. (personally, I'm thinking girl, but I have been wrong before....we will see)

My morning sickness is starting to dissapate...the only time it is bad now is if I am eating and driving at the same time...then I get to not feeling real good.

Chores

I really hate doing chores.

I hate cleaning, I hate picking up, I hate organizing...and yet it's necessary.

I'm doing more cleaning than normal....and I can't really blog about why but its a good thing.

I'm hoping if all goes as planned that it will be a good thing with good changes and life will be better.

I'm trusting it will be.

The kids and Dan are helping so that is good.

That is all...more to come on this later.

Sickie Update

Jaron does have strep...and really swollen tonsils.

He's also got a double ear infection

He's on an antibiotic...and already starting to feel better.

He should be able to go back to school on Monday!

The sickie

And no I am not talking about me.

Jaron woke up Thursday morning with a high fever.

Ran a fever all day yesterday, went to bed with a fever, woke up several times last night dehydrated and feverish and then woke up this morning with a fever and complaining of a sore throat.

My mom sense is telling me its probably strep throat.

I really hope it isn't strep throat. Now we are waiting to see if we get an appointment for today or if its off to urgent care we go....

Poor kid, I hope he feels better.

Also, I hope my job doesn't hate me for calling in sick so often! I did go in for the afternoon yesterday and I called in for the morning today. Waiting to see on an appointment then I will call and tell them again.

Needing to Adjust

I'm having to make some adjustments right now.

I need to make an attitude adjustment toward things.

My job is not what I was hoping for it to be. I am not doing what I had initially interviewed for when I went in. The scheduling and things are different than any other childcare facility that I have worked. It's the starkest place I have ever been and its all over the center...and it oppresive. However, I need to do my best until I can't take it anymore and quit or I find something different. The hours are very hard. It's challenging.

I'm having to adjust to the fact that in just a few months we are going to have 3 kids. I was completely satisfied with 2 kids. God must have something else planned for us and so we are being blessed with another child. My heart hurts though because I know people who desperately want to have children and they are struggling with infertility issues. I don't understand why God does what he does and causes different people to struggle with different things I just have to trust that He is Sovereign and knows what everyone needs.

I'm also struggling physically with how I am feeling. This pregnancy is hitting me hard. I suffer from nausea and stomach pain and just general fatigue constantly, my hormones are also really racing and I am more emotional and a little less tolerant of things than I usually am. I'm also struggling with my attitude towards the people I love the most. It's really hard.

We're trying to work together as a family to make life better and to make some big decisions. I'm looking forward to the months ahead and I am challenged and frustrated at the same time.

Yesterday and now Today

Yesterday I called in sick for work...today I am feeling better.

Yesterday I needed to rest....today I think the rest worked...I'm feeling better.

Yesterday life was less hectic with me being home alone...today we have stuff to do...

Yesterday I was exhausted...today I am just tired...but being pregnant I'm constantly tired.

Yesterday is over...today is here. I am going to enjoy today!

Ode to Potato Chips

Thank you Lays for making Classic Potato Chips

Thank you for the salty goodness that meets a need.

Thank you that my morning sickness feels better when I am eating you.

Thank you that the greasy residue doesn't wreak havoc with my stomach.

I'm enjoying you.

It's making me feel better.

Another great way to enjoy a potato.

Monday Morning Sickness Woes

I'm so thankful that there isn't smellovision on television.

I'm thankful that perfume can mask alot of stenches.

I've discovered that smells are really bad right now.

I'm hoping that lunch isn't too stinky today.

I'm feeling lousy!

I don't want to go to work at all....but I must.

I really hate Morning sickness

It's the Weekend!

It's the weekend!

I don't have to go to work!

I get to go to lunch with friends!

I get to hang out with my family!

We have stuff that has to be done but I have time to do it!

I'm looking forward to relaxing!

I'm looking forward to resting!

I'm looking forward to being HOME!

Quack, Quack

Hear that quacking?

Right there...here it...I do....what can it be?

That would be the Jonathan's getting all their ducks in a row and starting the process of changing our family tree.

Dan and I(more me but Dan too) made some big mistakes in our 20's regarding our finances. We made bad choices and dug ourselves a pretty big hole. Now we are trying to fix that. We are trying to make better choices and we have enrolled in the Financial Peace University class at our church this semester. We are going to make conscience choices now so that later we can be at peace with our financial situation.

We have a fire lit under us, we have goals in mind. We are looking forward to changing our financial future. It will be hard, there will need to be changes made but I know we can do, we must do it...we need to grow up, make tough decisions and work together to make our life the way we want it.

Pray for us as we go through this process...we probably will need it.

What a Day!

Thunder was crashing and rumbling last night.

Alarm clocks were blaring and radioing early.

Husband is going in early to get some much needed studying done so he's moving around earlier than normal.

Me...I'm trying to sleep and it's not working...so I am/was tired this morning.

I get the kiddos off to school and misplace part of Jaron's lunchbox and find it as he needs to be walking out the door to the bus...stressful times.

I'm trying to get things in place for the sitter and make sure the new schedule we are implementing is clear.

I almost leave late for work...forgetting to pack myself a lunch in the process...I figure I will buy lunch today, and off I go.

Halfway to work I realize that I have Jaron's car seat in my car and Daddy is taking him to Karate tonight.

I decide that I will run home on my lunch break...if I remember.

Work is crazy and lots of people are gone and so I have to cover a class that I'm not familiar with and I go to lunch a little late.

Stop at Chipotle on my home...so yummy...gives me heartburn and isn't the greatest for feeling sick to the stomach. Probably shouldn't have eaten while driving.

No specials teachers this afternoon...really not good for bathroom breaks.

Last kid isn't picked up till 6:25 and so I can't leave work till 6:30.

Mix up with Karate, go and pick up Janea, chicken out from walking in to take pictures, head home to eat.

Eating pizza for dinner...makes me sick to my stomach.

Still have to do laundry...Dan's out of pants...feeling tired, looking forward to rest.

Thankful homework is done, the boys are getting home and I can sleep soon.

Oh to start it all over again tomorrow...so thankful that it is not going to rain tonight!

Kicking my Butt!

This pregnancy is kicking my butt.

I'm exhausted! Frequently feel nausous, have a general yuckiness to my tastebuds and at times I feel like I could sleep standing up.

Working is also taking a chore on me. My hours feel incredibly long since I don't get off work until 6:30. The schedule is more taxing than I anticipated. I've spoken to one of the directors and I am hoping that she is able to find me slighly better hours.

Our due date is April 25th. However, both of the older kids were early so I am anticipating an earlier delivery...we will have to see, each baby seems to tell me when they want to come so I don't know what will happen.

The kids are excited, especially Jaron. He is looking forward to being the older brother as well as the younger brother. He keeps asking if its a boy or a girl...and yes I will be finding out...

Well that's a little of what is going on with me...I'll keep you all posted on how I'm feeling and how big I start to get...

Where were you?

Where were you 9 years ago?

What do you remember from that day?

I was getting ready for school, I was student teaching the first gradein St. Charles Illinois and we had on the Today Show and I remember stopping to watch the coverage when the first plane had hit and we didn't know what was going on. Then we watched as the 2nd plane went into the other tower. I was in shock, didn't know what was going on at all and at the same time I was mesmorized but what I was seeing. I had to leave very soon after the second plane hit and the staff meeting that morning was subdued.

The day was different, the students were mostly oblivious but we did have some absent that day and more were picked up early by parents. The PE and Art teachers were able to watch coverage throughout the day and kept us posted on what was happening. During lunch we ate and watched TV set up on a table in the Teacher's lounge which wasn't ever there...we witnessed the 2nds tower collapse and sat just dumbfounded by what had happened. I remember being concerned for my family and my young daughter and what the future would hold.

It was such an intense day. I was glued to the TV for days after as well and wanted to know all kind of information about what was going on.

I hope I never forget what happened that day. I want to understand, I want to never forget, I want to remember to say Thank You to those who risk their lives to save others.

Thank you to everyone who helps to keep AMERICA safe! I appreciate you!

Surprise!

Thursday

It's Thursday. I know its Thursday but I really wish it was Friday!

Tonight Jaron has his 2nd Karate Class...he's so excited.

Tomorrow is my first payday at the new job...I'm so excited!

Janea is thinking of joining either newspaper club or Drama club...I'm thinking Newspaper...so is she but she has a back up plan!

The kids are settling into a school routine pretty good...we have some tweaking to do but that should happen soon.

Busy week...and a busy schedule...

My Karate Kid

Jaron has been BEGGING for 3 months to take Karate classes. We were going to get him started during the summer but with me not working and not sure what I would be doing on the job front we waited until I had a job to get him signed up. We also weren't sure what type of class to do, where to go, that whole thing...so he brought home a sheet from school about a class being offered through the local community center at one of the local schools. BINGO! That's the ticket....that is the class for him. That way he can start and then we can go from there and determine if its a good fit for him.

Last night was the first class...HE LOVED IT! Looks like it's something he enjoys and we will see how he does as the weeks go on!

Thoughts

So I've become a little erratic in my blogging.

It's not that I don't want to blog or don't have stuff to blog about...but I am literally so tired that when I get to blogging, my thoughts get randomized and rambling and I think that it would be boring.

I am still here...I haven't died...I have some big things to share soon....

Till later friends,