Addendum to previous post: About 5pm one of Tess's classmates called and invited her over to spend the night. She was thrilled, Kate was heart broken.
When I say heart broken, I mean devastated. Complete anguish. Total mental breakdown.
Her crying was gutteral, to the point of almost throwing up. Sometimes Kate is a pretty good fake cryer, but this time it was genuine. It made my heart break seeing her so sad. She really wanted her sister to stay home.....but more importantly, she wanted to have a friend to hang out with too.
"Whhhhhhy can't I be big toooooo?"
"Eeeevverrrybooooddy's bigger than meee!"
"I waaaaannnnnt to grow up toooooooo!"
"It's taaaaakking soooo looong!"
So I held her tight, let her scream(she was seriously scream-crying) and promised to buy her anything she wanted to eat for our "party" tonight.
Sometimes money can buy happiness. It has cost me 15 bucks, but we are happy!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Martens 2009 year in review
For the past 11 years I have written a family Christmas letter to recap what we've been up to for the last year. Usually I enjoy looking back over the calendar and remembering things that made our year special. For some reason, this year I wasn't feelin' it.......so, no letter.
However, just in case you were thinking "Bummer, I wish she would have written that letter. I would have really enjoyed reading it........."
Wish granted.
Here is a recap of some of the high-lights...and low-lights of 2009.
In January Kate broke her arm. I know, it still makes me cringe. She had just turned 3, but handled it like a 30 year old.....so very brave. We altered a lot of shirts to go over that purple cast, and we were so thankful for the modern technology that made the cast waterproof!
February and March were filled with activities that kept us busy, but aren't exciting enough to detail for you. You're welcome.
After 20 + years of wearing contacts, I had Lasik done in April. I can honestly say it has changed my life. Totally worth the money. If you have been considering having Lasik done, but you need to hear from a satisfied customer first.....CALL ME.
May was the Martens first volunteer gig as a family. We did the Walk for the Homeless and had a blast. We got groovy tie dye t-shirts and froze our niblets off, all for a great cause. Can't wait to walk in 2010. Have your pledge money ready!
June was the annual Martens/Greiner family trip to Bennett Spring State Park. Both sets of parents, Andy's sister Missy and her husband Ben, and our family of 5, spent three days "roughing it." We stay in a cabin with my parents and Andy's family camps. Fly fishing, nature hikes, camp fires, and swimming are all part of the fun. We reserved our cabin for June 2010 when we left in June 2009. That's how fun it is.
July 7th our Jane Gracen celebrated her first birthday! Mid-July nine Martens family members(our five, plus parents, sis and bro) drove for 17 hours to get to Montrose Colorado, where four more family members were waiting for us! If you ever wondered if a one year old can hold a grudge....they can! Jane didn't look us in the eye or smile at us for at least 24 hours after we unstrapped her from her carseat. Two more family members driving out a few days later completed our posse of 15 and we became complete tourists for seven fun filled days. And yes, I would do it again.
Lordy, was August rough. We had barely been back from Colorado for a week when the horrific happened, and Andy's uncle Jim died unexpectedly. That made our time as a family out in Colorado even more special. We are still not over this loss. Tess started school and gave her first piano solo at church. I started leading a Bible Study with the junior and senior high school students at church. I may have the title as teacher, but trust me, I am learning way more than I am teaching. Oh yeah, I became a blogger this month.
In September, Tess turned 8 years old, Andy turned 33, and Kate started pre-school. I love how much Kate enjoys school, and how much she is learning without even realizing it! She gets to attend a gymnastics class every Monday after school, and is amazing. There is no fear of flinging her little body any which way the teacher asks. While other kids are still learning to sommersault, Kate is doing flips, cartwheels, bridges(a backwards bend), and jumps on a trampoline. It's funny how she looks like a Martens, but is built low to the ground with muscular little legs, like a Greiner. Kate also joined the cherub choir at church. (see video post from early December) It makes my heart almost burst with love when I hear her singing songs that I sang as a child. Father Abraham, had many sons. Many sons had Father Abraham. I am one of them and so are you...so let's all praise the Lord! Sing it with me, now!
In October, the Martens family, minus Jane, went to visit the dentist. We all came back sqeaky clean, but Andy and Tess were the only ones that got a gold star for perfect teeth. I always have procedures on a "to do" list, but this year Kate had a teeny, tiny cavity. She handled it better than most adults. Tess is still trying to lose some baby teeth, only three so far.
November, Tess had her tonsils and adenoids removed, and nasal turbinates cauterized. After some pain, there was a big gain, as she can clearly breathe through her nose for the first time in years. She also hasn't had a cold since, even though almost everyone else in the world has. oops, hope I didn't just jinx her. I turned the big 3-5 this month and feel pretty darn good about it. I've decided it's time to start caring about things.....like health and fitness....so went for a complete physical and found out my health (blood work) is better now than 7 years ago. The fitness part, not so much.
December went fast, and is coming to a end in just a few hours. On December 5th, Andy and I celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary at The Elms. This was a well planned TOTAL surprise to me. The girls were in on the surprise the entire time and gave nothing away. I'm not sure if it's a good thing or not that my girls are such amazing secret keepers. On December 27th, Kate turned 4 years old and woke up on the 28th asking if she was still 4.
We are truly blessed, and we know it. The most important thing we can do in 2010, is continue to Praise God for His amazing grace, and teach our children to do the same.
However, just in case you were thinking "Bummer, I wish she would have written that letter. I would have really enjoyed reading it........."
Wish granted.
Here is a recap of some of the high-lights...and low-lights of 2009.
In January Kate broke her arm. I know, it still makes me cringe. She had just turned 3, but handled it like a 30 year old.....so very brave. We altered a lot of shirts to go over that purple cast, and we were so thankful for the modern technology that made the cast waterproof!
February and March were filled with activities that kept us busy, but aren't exciting enough to detail for you. You're welcome.
After 20 + years of wearing contacts, I had Lasik done in April. I can honestly say it has changed my life. Totally worth the money. If you have been considering having Lasik done, but you need to hear from a satisfied customer first.....CALL ME.
May was the Martens first volunteer gig as a family. We did the Walk for the Homeless and had a blast. We got groovy tie dye t-shirts and froze our niblets off, all for a great cause. Can't wait to walk in 2010. Have your pledge money ready!
June was the annual Martens/Greiner family trip to Bennett Spring State Park. Both sets of parents, Andy's sister Missy and her husband Ben, and our family of 5, spent three days "roughing it." We stay in a cabin with my parents and Andy's family camps. Fly fishing, nature hikes, camp fires, and swimming are all part of the fun. We reserved our cabin for June 2010 when we left in June 2009. That's how fun it is.
July 7th our Jane Gracen celebrated her first birthday! Mid-July nine Martens family members(our five, plus parents, sis and bro) drove for 17 hours to get to Montrose Colorado, where four more family members were waiting for us! If you ever wondered if a one year old can hold a grudge....they can! Jane didn't look us in the eye or smile at us for at least 24 hours after we unstrapped her from her carseat. Two more family members driving out a few days later completed our posse of 15 and we became complete tourists for seven fun filled days. And yes, I would do it again.
Lordy, was August rough. We had barely been back from Colorado for a week when the horrific happened, and Andy's uncle Jim died unexpectedly. That made our time as a family out in Colorado even more special. We are still not over this loss. Tess started school and gave her first piano solo at church. I started leading a Bible Study with the junior and senior high school students at church. I may have the title as teacher, but trust me, I am learning way more than I am teaching. Oh yeah, I became a blogger this month.
In September, Tess turned 8 years old, Andy turned 33, and Kate started pre-school. I love how much Kate enjoys school, and how much she is learning without even realizing it! She gets to attend a gymnastics class every Monday after school, and is amazing. There is no fear of flinging her little body any which way the teacher asks. While other kids are still learning to sommersault, Kate is doing flips, cartwheels, bridges(a backwards bend), and jumps on a trampoline. It's funny how she looks like a Martens, but is built low to the ground with muscular little legs, like a Greiner. Kate also joined the cherub choir at church. (see video post from early December) It makes my heart almost burst with love when I hear her singing songs that I sang as a child. Father Abraham, had many sons. Many sons had Father Abraham. I am one of them and so are you...so let's all praise the Lord! Sing it with me, now!
In October, the Martens family, minus Jane, went to visit the dentist. We all came back sqeaky clean, but Andy and Tess were the only ones that got a gold star for perfect teeth. I always have procedures on a "to do" list, but this year Kate had a teeny, tiny cavity. She handled it better than most adults. Tess is still trying to lose some baby teeth, only three so far.
November, Tess had her tonsils and adenoids removed, and nasal turbinates cauterized. After some pain, there was a big gain, as she can clearly breathe through her nose for the first time in years. She also hasn't had a cold since, even though almost everyone else in the world has. oops, hope I didn't just jinx her. I turned the big 3-5 this month and feel pretty darn good about it. I've decided it's time to start caring about things.....like health and fitness....so went for a complete physical and found out my health (blood work) is better now than 7 years ago. The fitness part, not so much.
December went fast, and is coming to a end in just a few hours. On December 5th, Andy and I celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary at The Elms. This was a well planned TOTAL surprise to me. The girls were in on the surprise the entire time and gave nothing away. I'm not sure if it's a good thing or not that my girls are such amazing secret keepers. On December 27th, Kate turned 4 years old and woke up on the 28th asking if she was still 4.
We are truly blessed, and we know it. The most important thing we can do in 2010, is continue to Praise God for His amazing grace, and teach our children to do the same.
Hey Sarah, what are you doing for New Years Eve?
Same thing I did last year, and the year before that.....just hangin' with my girls!
For the third year in a row Andy is working for the Fire Department, and we are at home, trying to make today feel somehow "different" than every other day.
So far it isn't working.
I'm still doing laundry, picking up each room a bazillion times trying to keep the new Christmas toys from over-taking the house, breaking up "fights" between the sisters, getting into fights with them myself over picking up toys, cleaning their rooms, stop shouting while Jane's napping, and so on and so on and so on......Isn't it a wonder that I can stay so down to earth amidst all this glamour?
So I am ready to stop feeling sorry for myself and start making this day what it really is......a gift. There are so many people that would give anything to have the kind of blah day that we are having! 2009 was a good year for this family, and I know that is a blessing, considering it was filled with hardships and loss for so many others.
Tonight we are going to splurge and order pizza, bake some cookies, drink some sparkling apple cider(that "comes in a wine bottle!" exclaims Kate) and try to stay awake long enough to see the clock turn 12:00am.........well, maybe the clocks in New York are the ones we will go by.
For the third year in a row Andy is working for the Fire Department, and we are at home, trying to make today feel somehow "different" than every other day.
So far it isn't working.
I'm still doing laundry, picking up each room a bazillion times trying to keep the new Christmas toys from over-taking the house, breaking up "fights" between the sisters, getting into fights with them myself over picking up toys, cleaning their rooms, stop shouting while Jane's napping, and so on and so on and so on......Isn't it a wonder that I can stay so down to earth amidst all this glamour?
So I am ready to stop feeling sorry for myself and start making this day what it really is......a gift. There are so many people that would give anything to have the kind of blah day that we are having! 2009 was a good year for this family, and I know that is a blessing, considering it was filled with hardships and loss for so many others.
Tonight we are going to splurge and order pizza, bake some cookies, drink some sparkling apple cider(that "comes in a wine bottle!" exclaims Kate) and try to stay awake long enough to see the clock turn 12:00am.........well, maybe the clocks in New York are the ones we will go by.
Monday, December 28, 2009
4 Reasons Why Kate is Great!
Happy Birthday to my favorite 4 year old!
Last night the Martens/Greiner families took a much needed break from Christmas to celebrate our Kate Sinclaire Martens turning 4 years old. Even though there are still signs of Christmas everywhere....and I do mean EVERYWHERE in our house, we made the party as non-Christmasy as we could. We served her favorite meal, spaghetti, to about 20 people(we sure missed the family and friends that couldn't come for one reason or another....mostly due to the weather!) and had a great time opening (more!) gifts. This birthday has been much anticipated because it makes her one year closer to being "big like Tess" which is her ultimate goal. I don't have the heart to remind her that Tess gets older every year too. So to keep it fair amongst the girls.....something I will forever be trying to do.....I will list the 4 things I love about Kate. (I did the 8 things I love about Tess for her 8th birthday, just in case you are a newbie to this blog)
The 4 things I love about Kate:
1. She is perfectly comfortable(and confident) playing dinosaurs and trucks while wearing her Sleeping Beauty dress, make-up, and loads of jewelry.
2. Even when she is scared/shy she says "My brain is telling me to be brave!"
3. "Guess what.......Chicken Butt!" It is funny every time.
4. She will tell you, with all seriousness, that she wants to be a lion when she grows up.
I love you my wonderful child.
Last night the Martens/Greiner families took a much needed break from Christmas to celebrate our Kate Sinclaire Martens turning 4 years old. Even though there are still signs of Christmas everywhere....and I do mean EVERYWHERE in our house, we made the party as non-Christmasy as we could. We served her favorite meal, spaghetti, to about 20 people(we sure missed the family and friends that couldn't come for one reason or another....mostly due to the weather!) and had a great time opening (more!) gifts. This birthday has been much anticipated because it makes her one year closer to being "big like Tess" which is her ultimate goal. I don't have the heart to remind her that Tess gets older every year too. So to keep it fair amongst the girls.....something I will forever be trying to do.....I will list the 4 things I love about Kate. (I did the 8 things I love about Tess for her 8th birthday, just in case you are a newbie to this blog)
The 4 things I love about Kate:
1. She is perfectly comfortable(and confident) playing dinosaurs and trucks while wearing her Sleeping Beauty dress, make-up, and loads of jewelry.
2. Even when she is scared/shy she says "My brain is telling me to be brave!"
3. "Guess what.......Chicken Butt!" It is funny every time.
4. She will tell you, with all seriousness, that she wants to be a lion when she grows up.
I love you my wonderful child.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!
Another slight change in plans.....
This beautiful wintry wonderland has made us captives in our home. The plan had been for us to travel north of St Joseph to my grandma's house in Oregon, Missouri. When we heard of the potential for a snowy Christmas we wondered if we would make it. After getting out last night to go to Christmas Eve services, we knew that our travel plans were not going to happen.
Instead of heading north, my parents and brother headed the 3 blocks south to our house, for the day. We had soup and chili for lunch, played Nintendo Wii (Thank You Santa) and the girls got to spread their Christmas gifts all over the house as they played with them throughout the day. Right after lunch, we bundled them up for a good 20 minutes of outside time playing in the snow. My mother even did a snow angel and I got it on film......priceless!
It was a great day.
The only thing that could have made it better is if we'd had the man of the house at home with us. God bless the people that worked today....and please, please keep them safe through the night. The roads are getting bad again, and I worry that the fire department will get called out to help the late night travelers. I am so thankful that I didn't have to brave the snowy roads, at the crack of dawn, to get into the city for work this morning.
Merry CHRISTmas! 3 Christmas get-togethers done, 3 more to go!
And don't even forget about the Birthday party we are having on Sunday for our Kate.
There is SO MUCH to celebrate in Crazytown!!
This beautiful wintry wonderland has made us captives in our home. The plan had been for us to travel north of St Joseph to my grandma's house in Oregon, Missouri. When we heard of the potential for a snowy Christmas we wondered if we would make it. After getting out last night to go to Christmas Eve services, we knew that our travel plans were not going to happen.
Instead of heading north, my parents and brother headed the 3 blocks south to our house, for the day. We had soup and chili for lunch, played Nintendo Wii (Thank You Santa) and the girls got to spread their Christmas gifts all over the house as they played with them throughout the day. Right after lunch, we bundled them up for a good 20 minutes of outside time playing in the snow. My mother even did a snow angel and I got it on film......priceless!
It was a great day.
The only thing that could have made it better is if we'd had the man of the house at home with us. God bless the people that worked today....and please, please keep them safe through the night. The roads are getting bad again, and I worry that the fire department will get called out to help the late night travelers. I am so thankful that I didn't have to brave the snowy roads, at the crack of dawn, to get into the city for work this morning.
Merry CHRISTmas! 3 Christmas get-togethers done, 3 more to go!
And don't even forget about the Birthday party we are having on Sunday for our Kate.
There is SO MUCH to celebrate in Crazytown!!
Please be kind and rewind!
I need everyone to rewind their minds and pretend like this post is from yesterday.....
All day I dreamt of a relaxing night, with the girls to bed, Andy and I watching the winter forecast on the news,then quietly drifting off to sleep....by 10. You see, for the first time in 8 years, Andy and I had nothing to assemble, put stickers on, un-package, or wrap this Christmas Eve. Either it was already done, or didn't need further alteration before being placed under the tree.
Needless to say, the plan did not go as planned.
We had to re-arrange the schedule for the evening after it took my brother an hour and a half to drive from his home in Westport to my parent's house in Kearney.....Praise God that he made it safely......but this put our traditional Christmas Eve schedule off schedule. The gift giving didn't get started until after the Christmas Eve service, putting us home a wee bit late.....like 10.
I wanted to use my quiet, relaxing Christmas Eve to write about some of my favorite things about Christmas time--especially some highlights from this year.
--Wrapping presents has been waaaayyyy more fun this year. I have a three year old learning how to cut with scissors. BIG help. I also have an 8 year old that loves to spell. Another BIG helper writing on the gift tags. Both are learning the joys of how to properly use a tape dispenser. Not to forget our 18 month old that thinks running through the middle of the mess is hysterical.
--I love eating Christmas goodies baked/made by someone else. Enough said.
--We have received two gifts to Heifer International in our honor. I love the teaching and learning opportunity this gift brings to talk about the needs of people in other parts of the world. A flock of chickens and a sheep were purchased in our name. Love love love that.
--Totally feel like we nailed the gifts for the girls. I know we spend more than we should, but that is how we were each raised....to spend money at Christmas. As long as our bills get paid, our favorite charities get gifts, and we don't go into debt, then we will keep the mantra that it is only money. Two of my favorite words.....Christmas Club.
--Metro North, shopping mecca of the northland, has been the place we take the girls to visit Santa for the last 8 years. We started with Tess at 3 months old, and haven't missed a year, specifically because it has been the same guy every year. I love the continuity and it just makes our Santa pics photo album special. After standing in line (why do we always manage to show up just as they are putting up the "Santa needs a break...be back in one hour" sign) for hours we realized that our Santa had been re-assigned to East Hills mall in St Joseph! The horror! I'm pretty sure that is why Jane is crying in her picture.
--Sitting in my living room with a hot beverage, reading, with the tree lights on. I don't know about you, but our tree lights get turned on the minute we wake up and stay on until we go to bed. It just feels like the right way to waste electricity, if ever there was one.
I could probably do this all night, but because it is Christmas Eve (wink wink nudge nudge) I need to get to bed......can't skimp on the beauty sleep.
Hope Santa can find your house in all this snow!
Sarah
All day I dreamt of a relaxing night, with the girls to bed, Andy and I watching the winter forecast on the news,then quietly drifting off to sleep....by 10. You see, for the first time in 8 years, Andy and I had nothing to assemble, put stickers on, un-package, or wrap this Christmas Eve. Either it was already done, or didn't need further alteration before being placed under the tree.
Needless to say, the plan did not go as planned.
We had to re-arrange the schedule for the evening after it took my brother an hour and a half to drive from his home in Westport to my parent's house in Kearney.....Praise God that he made it safely......but this put our traditional Christmas Eve schedule off schedule. The gift giving didn't get started until after the Christmas Eve service, putting us home a wee bit late.....like 10.
I wanted to use my quiet, relaxing Christmas Eve to write about some of my favorite things about Christmas time--especially some highlights from this year.
--Wrapping presents has been waaaayyyy more fun this year. I have a three year old learning how to cut with scissors. BIG help. I also have an 8 year old that loves to spell. Another BIG helper writing on the gift tags. Both are learning the joys of how to properly use a tape dispenser. Not to forget our 18 month old that thinks running through the middle of the mess is hysterical.
--I love eating Christmas goodies baked/made by someone else. Enough said.
--We have received two gifts to Heifer International in our honor. I love the teaching and learning opportunity this gift brings to talk about the needs of people in other parts of the world. A flock of chickens and a sheep were purchased in our name. Love love love that.
--Totally feel like we nailed the gifts for the girls. I know we spend more than we should, but that is how we were each raised....to spend money at Christmas. As long as our bills get paid, our favorite charities get gifts, and we don't go into debt, then we will keep the mantra that it is only money. Two of my favorite words.....Christmas Club.
--Metro North, shopping mecca of the northland, has been the place we take the girls to visit Santa for the last 8 years. We started with Tess at 3 months old, and haven't missed a year, specifically because it has been the same guy every year. I love the continuity and it just makes our Santa pics photo album special. After standing in line (why do we always manage to show up just as they are putting up the "Santa needs a break...be back in one hour" sign) for hours we realized that our Santa had been re-assigned to East Hills mall in St Joseph! The horror! I'm pretty sure that is why Jane is crying in her picture.
--Sitting in my living room with a hot beverage, reading, with the tree lights on. I don't know about you, but our tree lights get turned on the minute we wake up and stay on until we go to bed. It just feels like the right way to waste electricity, if ever there was one.
I could probably do this all night, but because it is Christmas Eve (wink wink nudge nudge) I need to get to bed......can't skimp on the beauty sleep.
Hope Santa can find your house in all this snow!
Sarah
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Sing it Mary J!
I also want to mention that Mary J. Blige just sang on the Today show.
She is such a rockstar.
The epitomy of cool.
She is such a rockstar.
The epitomy of cool.
What's in a name?
I am watching the Today show right now and they just finished a segment about the top baby names of the year and decade.
Surprise-Surprise.......my kids' names did NOT make the list.
HOORAY!
I know at least one kid/adult to correlate with each of the top 10 names for both boy and girl.
It is such a big deal to name a person. We wanted names that were unique but not weird or flaky sounding. It was never the plan to carry on a family name to our child, we just didn't have anybody with a cool enough name. haha (although I know there is at least one Kate on each side of our family tree) If you haven't heard by now here are some of the naming secrets behind our beautiful babies names.
Brogan Tess-I don't really know, Brogan just sounded uber-cool with the name Tess....I got the name Tess from a book I was reading on a camping trip to Bennett Springs after we first got married. I even told Andy, " I want to name a girl Tess someday" We always knew that Tess would be the name she would use, even though it isn't her first name.
Kate Sinclaire-It was Andy's turn to name a kid. He had a crush on a girl name Katie in high school (younger sister of a classmate) and wanted to use that name. I agreed to Kate...not ever to be Katie, although people make the mistake and call her that all the time. Makes me cringe. After she was born, and still to this day, people ask "just Kate?" when asking her full first name. Yep, just Kate. I swear that will be the name of her autobiography someday, because she is anything but "just Kate" she is SO much more. Sinclaire was a beautiful middle name I just happened to find in a baby book. No meaning other than it sounded like music to our ears.
Jane Gracen-My turn again. It gets hard to find one syllable girl names that don't go against our rule of not sounding weird or flaky. I had seen the name Jane a lot while I was pregnant and it just clicked. Gracen came from the song "Your Grace is Enough" that we sing during the praise service on Sundays. Our lives have been filled, to the point of overflowing, with God's Grace and it just seemed that this third pregnancy felt like the ultimate gift. We know several kids named Grayson, but wanted the "grace" in Gracen to stay true, so just added the -en- and Voila! Our baby was named. The funny story behind Jane's middle name was the evening Andy and I tried to decide on a middle name--he came up with Elaine--but it sounded hilarious with Jane. Go ahead, say it out loud a couple times! Jane Elaine, Jane Elaine!
HOWEVER, after making you suffer through that obnoxiously long post about the name game Andy and I played through the last 8 years, here is the #1 reason I give when people ask why we chose one syllable names for all three kids.
IT'S EASY TO YELL!
TESS!
KATE!
JANE!
see, no problems shouting that at the top of my lungs anywhere.....anytime....for any reason.
When asked the #1 thing that parents should take into consideration when naming their child, what did the Today show expert suggest?
"Go to the back door and practice yelling the name! It if sounds good being shouted...you know you've picked a good name."
I'm just reporting what the expert said.
Surprise-Surprise.......my kids' names did NOT make the list.
HOORAY!
I know at least one kid/adult to correlate with each of the top 10 names for both boy and girl.
It is such a big deal to name a person. We wanted names that were unique but not weird or flaky sounding. It was never the plan to carry on a family name to our child, we just didn't have anybody with a cool enough name. haha (although I know there is at least one Kate on each side of our family tree) If you haven't heard by now here are some of the naming secrets behind our beautiful babies names.
Brogan Tess-I don't really know, Brogan just sounded uber-cool with the name Tess....I got the name Tess from a book I was reading on a camping trip to Bennett Springs after we first got married. I even told Andy, " I want to name a girl Tess someday" We always knew that Tess would be the name she would use, even though it isn't her first name.
Kate Sinclaire-It was Andy's turn to name a kid. He had a crush on a girl name Katie in high school (younger sister of a classmate) and wanted to use that name. I agreed to Kate...not ever to be Katie, although people make the mistake and call her that all the time. Makes me cringe. After she was born, and still to this day, people ask "just Kate?" when asking her full first name. Yep, just Kate. I swear that will be the name of her autobiography someday, because she is anything but "just Kate" she is SO much more. Sinclaire was a beautiful middle name I just happened to find in a baby book. No meaning other than it sounded like music to our ears.
Jane Gracen-My turn again. It gets hard to find one syllable girl names that don't go against our rule of not sounding weird or flaky. I had seen the name Jane a lot while I was pregnant and it just clicked. Gracen came from the song "Your Grace is Enough" that we sing during the praise service on Sundays. Our lives have been filled, to the point of overflowing, with God's Grace and it just seemed that this third pregnancy felt like the ultimate gift. We know several kids named Grayson, but wanted the "grace" in Gracen to stay true, so just added the -en- and Voila! Our baby was named. The funny story behind Jane's middle name was the evening Andy and I tried to decide on a middle name--he came up with Elaine--but it sounded hilarious with Jane. Go ahead, say it out loud a couple times! Jane Elaine, Jane Elaine!
HOWEVER, after making you suffer through that obnoxiously long post about the name game Andy and I played through the last 8 years, here is the #1 reason I give when people ask why we chose one syllable names for all three kids.
IT'S EASY TO YELL!
TESS!
KATE!
JANE!
see, no problems shouting that at the top of my lungs anywhere.....anytime....for any reason.
When asked the #1 thing that parents should take into consideration when naming their child, what did the Today show expert suggest?
"Go to the back door and practice yelling the name! It if sounds good being shouted...you know you've picked a good name."
I'm just reporting what the expert said.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Jesus is the reason for the season!
I really despise when people write
Merry X-Mas!
That takes the whole purpose out of wishing someone a
Merry CHRISTmas!
Even Kate knows that JESUS is the reason for the season.
She came home from spending the day with Grandma Ann with a "new" fact..
"Hey mom, guess what I learned today?!"
"What?"
"Jesus is the reason of the season!"
"What does that mean Kate?"
"Jesus's birthday is Christmas Day!"
Yes! child #2 gets it! One more girl to go!
The best Christmas present I have EVER received was Christmas morning 2005. Christmas fell on a Sunday, and our family of three(soon to be 4! in 2 days) was lighting the Advent candles in church that morning. When we got up in front of the church Tess told Pastor Fred that she had something to say.
Andy and I looked at each other with the same thought..."oh crap, she is going to start talking about her presents from Santa!"
Instead my precious 4 year old child confidently said "Glory to God in the highest and on Earth, peace to all men." (this was her line from the Christmas pageant a few days before)
I started to cry(I don't know if it was more out of pride or relief!) and the congregation was one big gasp/sigh of surprise. After church we heard so many compliments of how that was such a Christmas blessing for them, and that it was so great to know that she "got it"....."It" being the real meaning of Christmas.
It is my Christmas wish that my girls will not only realize the true meaning of Christmas, but share the message with anyone and everyone that will listen!
Thanks for listening.
Merry X-Mas!
That takes the whole purpose out of wishing someone a
Merry CHRISTmas!
Even Kate knows that JESUS is the reason for the season.
She came home from spending the day with Grandma Ann with a "new" fact..
"Hey mom, guess what I learned today?!"
"What?"
"Jesus is the reason of the season!"
"What does that mean Kate?"
"Jesus's birthday is Christmas Day!"
Yes! child #2 gets it! One more girl to go!
The best Christmas present I have EVER received was Christmas morning 2005. Christmas fell on a Sunday, and our family of three(soon to be 4! in 2 days) was lighting the Advent candles in church that morning. When we got up in front of the church Tess told Pastor Fred that she had something to say.
Andy and I looked at each other with the same thought..."oh crap, she is going to start talking about her presents from Santa!"
Instead my precious 4 year old child confidently said "Glory to God in the highest and on Earth, peace to all men." (this was her line from the Christmas pageant a few days before)
I started to cry(I don't know if it was more out of pride or relief!) and the congregation was one big gasp/sigh of surprise. After church we heard so many compliments of how that was such a Christmas blessing for them, and that it was so great to know that she "got it"....."It" being the real meaning of Christmas.
It is my Christmas wish that my girls will not only realize the true meaning of Christmas, but share the message with anyone and everyone that will listen!
Thanks for listening.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Bragging Rights
Turns out I have a pretty smart 8 year old.
duh.
But seriously, read these recent results from the STAR Reading computer adaptive reading test that she took last Friday. I'm typing what the report page says.
GE(Grade Equivalent): 12.2
Grade equivalent scores range from 0.0 to 12.9+. A GE scores shows how your child's performance compares with that of other students nationally. Based on national norms, Tess reads at a level equal to that of a typical twelfth grader.
Percentile Rank: 99
The percentile rank score compares your child's performance with that of other students nationally in the same grade. With a PR of 99, Tess reads at a level greater than or equal to 99% of other students nationally in the same grade.
Instructional Reading Level: 10.7
The Instructional reading level is the grade level at which Tess is at least 80% proficient at recognizing words and comprehending reading material. This means that Tess is at least 80% proficient at reading tenth grade words and books.
Her teacher said she has never had nor heard of a second grader scoring this high. For comparison, she put Tess's IRL score from August 26th, which was 6.3.
I know she is my kid. I was there, and even though it happened fast(read blog dated September 3rd) I remember the day quite well.
On the flip side, I am extremely sad that our nation's 12th graders are reading so poorly.
We love to read in Crazytown!!
Sarah
duh.
But seriously, read these recent results from the STAR Reading computer adaptive reading test that she took last Friday. I'm typing what the report page says.
GE(Grade Equivalent): 12.2
Grade equivalent scores range from 0.0 to 12.9+. A GE scores shows how your child's performance compares with that of other students nationally. Based on national norms, Tess reads at a level equal to that of a typical twelfth grader.
Percentile Rank: 99
The percentile rank score compares your child's performance with that of other students nationally in the same grade. With a PR of 99, Tess reads at a level greater than or equal to 99% of other students nationally in the same grade.
Instructional Reading Level: 10.7
The Instructional reading level is the grade level at which Tess is at least 80% proficient at recognizing words and comprehending reading material. This means that Tess is at least 80% proficient at reading tenth grade words and books.
Her teacher said she has never had nor heard of a second grader scoring this high. For comparison, she put Tess's IRL score from August 26th, which was 6.3.
I know she is my kid. I was there, and even though it happened fast(read blog dated September 3rd) I remember the day quite well.
On the flip side, I am extremely sad that our nation's 12th graders are reading so poorly.
We love to read in Crazytown!!
Sarah
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Get it together Woman!
Today I completely forgot about our Parents as Teachers visit. Both girls and I were still in our pajamas at 11:30, there was crap everywhere, and we were in the process of trying to wrap some Christmas presents.....with a 3 year old and a 1 year old.....get the picture? SO, when Marla, God love her, pulls into the driveway, initially I think "how lazy. this is a cul-de-sac, don't use my driveway to turn around!" and then a split second later realize "holy S#$*! That's Marla!"
I run upstairs, change into some jeans, put on a bra(!) and look in the mirror.....while telling my 3 year old to pick up the living room, open the door and let Marla in, don't let Jane have the scissors, and maybe solve world peace too. AARRGGGHH.
Luckily, Marla is ultra-cool and I can shout downstairs to her "hold on, I'm putting on a bra" and not be completely embarressed. As I come into the living room I am grabbing things and throwing them into a pile in the corner, apologizing, smoothing my bed-head down, and wiping the wet mascara marks, from my freshly applied make-up, off my eyelids. I hate the conversation that happens next:
"Sarah, don't worry about it! I love this! Everytime I come here your house is so perfect, and I hated you for always being the most together mother ever!"
Busted.
I have such a love/hate feeling about having this conversation. On the one hand, I love that people really think I have it so together all the time.....but on the other hand, it's the not-so-together moments that make me laugh the hardest. AND give me blog material to bring others JOY.
I run upstairs, change into some jeans, put on a bra(!) and look in the mirror.....while telling my 3 year old to pick up the living room, open the door and let Marla in, don't let Jane have the scissors, and maybe solve world peace too. AARRGGGHH.
Luckily, Marla is ultra-cool and I can shout downstairs to her "hold on, I'm putting on a bra" and not be completely embarressed. As I come into the living room I am grabbing things and throwing them into a pile in the corner, apologizing, smoothing my bed-head down, and wiping the wet mascara marks, from my freshly applied make-up, off my eyelids. I hate the conversation that happens next:
"Sarah, don't worry about it! I love this! Everytime I come here your house is so perfect, and I hated you for always being the most together mother ever!"
Busted.
I have such a love/hate feeling about having this conversation. On the one hand, I love that people really think I have it so together all the time.....but on the other hand, it's the not-so-together moments that make me laugh the hardest. AND give me blog material to bring others JOY.
Kate's Cherub choir---Christmas performance
Here is our little angel. Middle of the front row. Please excuse the incredibly cheesy robes....parents didn't get a vote. And yes, she does elbow the girl behind her between songs....such an angel.
Notice Papa Loren's video camera to the left. His video is much better than mine.
Hey Everybody! Go Tell it On the Mountain ...Jesus Christ is Born!
All I want for Christmas is a new front tooth!
After weeks of wiggling, pulling, playing with it(both fingers and tongue) and crying about it....yes, dramatic tears of woe......the tooth is finally out! Our Brogan Tess is a late bloomer in the tooth department. She is 8 and this is only her 3rd lost tooth. The dentist says it's a blessing, and since he makes the big bucks in this department, we'll go with that. This tooth was attached to brain matter, I'm pretty sure, and left a gaping hole in her mouth. It's funny how much a front tooth really does affect how she talks. I've noticed a subtle lisp now.....too funny.
The tooth fairy brought $3 and I heard Tess tell her grandma that the tooth fairy puts the childs teeth in their mom's jewelry box. When I asked her why she thought that she said "because Garrett(a classmate)found his teeth in his mom's jewelry box and his mom said the tooth fairy must have put them there!" And this must be true because that is also where Tess's teeth are.
Christmas craziness is here!
Sarah
Monday, December 7, 2009
Fancy Pants
Don't I feel like Miss Fancy Pants with my new blog colors!
Most bloggers change their background layout with the seasons, complete with decorations and even music.
I'm feelin' pretty jazzy with my new color scheme.
Isn't it fun how just changing the colors to red, green, and white implies a Christmas theme without there being any other symbol of Christmas on the entire page.
Happy Monday from Crazytown.
This was totally not on my "to do" list for the day.
Sarah
Most bloggers change their background layout with the seasons, complete with decorations and even music.
I'm feelin' pretty jazzy with my new color scheme.
Isn't it fun how just changing the colors to red, green, and white implies a Christmas theme without there being any other symbol of Christmas on the entire page.
Happy Monday from Crazytown.
This was totally not on my "to do" list for the day.
Sarah
Friday, December 4, 2009
Chicken Butt
This summer Kate was in a foul mood, and I was trying to come up with something to cheer her up. I have no idea why on earth I thought of this saying, but I did. Remember this from junior high?
"Hey! Guess What?"
"What?"
"Chicken Butt!"
The first time I got her with that joke she looked at me like I was crazy, then a smile slowly crept across her face, and then she laughed hysterically. Her laugh brings me such JOY. Well, she took up this new joke with a fierce passion, and can literally trick anyone with it. I have even fell for it a couple times....and I'm the one that taught it to her!
So what inspired this post was tonight Tess was in her room, Kate was in her room. Each were doing their own thing, when I hear Tess shout to me "Hey mom, guess what?" and Kate casually says "Chicken Butt!" before I can even say a word.
That joke is funny anytime, every time.
Blessings from Crazytown,
The Mayor
"Hey! Guess What?"
"What?"
"Chicken Butt!"
The first time I got her with that joke she looked at me like I was crazy, then a smile slowly crept across her face, and then she laughed hysterically. Her laugh brings me such JOY. Well, she took up this new joke with a fierce passion, and can literally trick anyone with it. I have even fell for it a couple times....and I'm the one that taught it to her!
So what inspired this post was tonight Tess was in her room, Kate was in her room. Each were doing their own thing, when I hear Tess shout to me "Hey mom, guess what?" and Kate casually says "Chicken Butt!" before I can even say a word.
That joke is funny anytime, every time.
Blessings from Crazytown,
The Mayor
Clear at last! Clear at last! Thank God almighty she is clear at last!
Tess and I just shared a "happy dance" to celebrate a clear breath of air into her nose!!!
HIP HIP HOORAY! HIP HIP HOORAY! HIP HIP HOOOOORAAAAYYYY!
It brings me such JOY to see her realize that with some pain there can be a BIG gain.
I would give myself a "bad-mother-of-the-year" award if I didn't sing the praises of Tess and her amazing ability to recover from not one, not two, but three different surgical procedures. She stuck by our mantra that "it will get better....." and listened to our advice to rest, drink plenty of fluids, try and eat something, and blow her nose! Sometimes parents really do know what they are talking about. We are proud of you Tess.
Our sincere thanks to Grandma Linda for being the emergency back-up plan for Tess's field trip to Science City today. Initially we thought a day long field trip to Science City, with a bus ride(!) would not be possible. However, Tess proved us wrong by attending school a 1/2 day on Wednesday and a full day on Thursday without any problems. Then when Grandma Linda graciously offered to pick up Tess from Union Station, if she had any problems, there was no way we could say NO! Field trips rock!
God is good.
HIP HIP HOORAY! HIP HIP HOORAY! HIP HIP HOOOOORAAAAYYYY!
It brings me such JOY to see her realize that with some pain there can be a BIG gain.
I would give myself a "bad-mother-of-the-year" award if I didn't sing the praises of Tess and her amazing ability to recover from not one, not two, but three different surgical procedures. She stuck by our mantra that "it will get better....." and listened to our advice to rest, drink plenty of fluids, try and eat something, and blow her nose! Sometimes parents really do know what they are talking about. We are proud of you Tess.
Our sincere thanks to Grandma Linda for being the emergency back-up plan for Tess's field trip to Science City today. Initially we thought a day long field trip to Science City, with a bus ride(!) would not be possible. However, Tess proved us wrong by attending school a 1/2 day on Wednesday and a full day on Thursday without any problems. Then when Grandma Linda graciously offered to pick up Tess from Union Station, if she had any problems, there was no way we could say NO! Field trips rock!
God is good.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Post Surgical Blessings
and now a week later....The Mayor is G-O-O-D good! We are almost 5 days post-op and I have been pleasantly surprised at how well Tess is doing. Besides having her tonsils and adenoids removed, she also had the turbinates in her nose cauterized. This nose procedure resulted in her not being able to breathe out her nose AT ALL. Can you say SNORE? Her throat gets very dry and ouchy, but the pain has been controlled with medication and time.
Initially she couldn't find anything that felt or tasted good to eat, which was a problem when it came time to administer medications. Plus she was so hungry. By Thanksgiving she could eat mashed potatoes, jello salads, chicken broth, and some small bites of turkey, which made me very thankful.
Every day she is able to go a little longer between doses of pain medication, and when a little squeak of air gets through her still swollen nasal passages, we all shout for joy. It truly is the little things that are a big deal sometimes.
My thanks to everyone that took time to pray for us, think of us, and send an encouraging word to us. I passed the good wishes on to Tess, and I think she realized how many people truly love and care about her.
God is good.
More on the healing process as it happens......
Initially she couldn't find anything that felt or tasted good to eat, which was a problem when it came time to administer medications. Plus she was so hungry. By Thanksgiving she could eat mashed potatoes, jello salads, chicken broth, and some small bites of turkey, which made me very thankful.
Every day she is able to go a little longer between doses of pain medication, and when a little squeak of air gets through her still swollen nasal passages, we all shout for joy. It truly is the little things that are a big deal sometimes.
My thanks to everyone that took time to pray for us, think of us, and send an encouraging word to us. I passed the good wishes on to Tess, and I think she realized how many people truly love and care about her.
God is good.
More on the healing process as it happens......
Pre-Surgical funnies
As Tess is taking her night before surgery shower, complete with antibacterial soap, she tells me "Mom, my tonsils and I have changed our minds.....we do NOT want to do this."
I try and explain that it is okay to be scared, that dad and I are scared too.......we are trusting someone we barely know with our child's life.....which when said out loud sounded ludicrous that we would even consider agreeing to this surgery!
Tess tells me that she is afraid that the doctor will decide to be funny and say "look everyone, I can do this with my eyes closed!" while operating. She was serious. My child is soooo like me....we worry about the strangest things, except in our minds they are legitimate problems!
Finally she tells me that she wants us to just keep acting like it is no big deal....."you know mom, just be cool" "If you start to freak out, then I will too."
Anyone who has met me knows that it takes a lot for me to freak out. If anything, I tend to under-react. But when they put the surgery cap on my little girl and we watched them wheel her into the operating room,
I FELT LIKE FREAKING OUT.
While no one was looking, the Mayor went a little crazy......
I try and explain that it is okay to be scared, that dad and I are scared too.......we are trusting someone we barely know with our child's life.....which when said out loud sounded ludicrous that we would even consider agreeing to this surgery!
Tess tells me that she is afraid that the doctor will decide to be funny and say "look everyone, I can do this with my eyes closed!" while operating. She was serious. My child is soooo like me....we worry about the strangest things, except in our minds they are legitimate problems!
Finally she tells me that she wants us to just keep acting like it is no big deal....."you know mom, just be cool" "If you start to freak out, then I will too."
Anyone who has met me knows that it takes a lot for me to freak out. If anything, I tend to under-react. But when they put the surgery cap on my little girl and we watched them wheel her into the operating room,
I FELT LIKE FREAKING OUT.
While no one was looking, the Mayor went a little crazy......
Sunday, November 22, 2009
My Girls are Back!
The girls hadn't been out of the house since Thursday, and we were all ready for some fresh air!
After seeing them in such pain and discomfort, these smiles are priceless!
Look for more from this series of outside pictures in your Christmas card!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Crazytown Mayor Apologizes to Citizens
Friends, family, and blog readers of the world....
I owe you an apology.
Earlier this week I blamed receiving the H1N1 vaccination as the suspected cause of my extreme sickness last weekend.
I stand corrected.
MY ENTIRE FAMILY HAS BEEN SO SICK THIS WEEK!
A quick recap:
Sunday-I was "I've just been hit by a bus" sick
Wednesday-Jane got sick. I have to say that vomit is not as gross coming from her.
Thursday night- Tess, Kate and I pulled an all-nighter. Tess got sick in the late evening and Kate started about 4am. Oh My Goodness, my babies were so, so sick! I was the only adult in the house and I slept nill.
Friday-After Andy got home, I slept a few hours, and woke up to find him looking green and ready to hurl.
This family is officially quarantined for the weekend.
I do not believe the vaccination caused my illness. It might have intensified some of my symptoms, but definately was not the cause.
Here's to better days in Crazytown.
Sarah
Here is your apology Joan. Are you happy now? :)
I owe you an apology.
Earlier this week I blamed receiving the H1N1 vaccination as the suspected cause of my extreme sickness last weekend.
I stand corrected.
MY ENTIRE FAMILY HAS BEEN SO SICK THIS WEEK!
A quick recap:
Sunday-I was "I've just been hit by a bus" sick
Wednesday-Jane got sick. I have to say that vomit is not as gross coming from her.
Thursday night- Tess, Kate and I pulled an all-nighter. Tess got sick in the late evening and Kate started about 4am. Oh My Goodness, my babies were so, so sick! I was the only adult in the house and I slept nill.
Friday-After Andy got home, I slept a few hours, and woke up to find him looking green and ready to hurl.
This family is officially quarantined for the weekend.
I do not believe the vaccination caused my illness. It might have intensified some of my symptoms, but definately was not the cause.
Here's to better days in Crazytown.
Sarah
Here is your apology Joan. Are you happy now? :)
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Awww, shucks........
Today I had a really cool, humbling experience.
Every month we celebrate the patient birthdays on our unit by having a party with cake, ice cream, and music. It is a chance for everyone to forget that they are in a hospital, on a special diet, have no place to call home, etc. etc. etc. Let's just say it's a good time.... every time.
This month there were no patient birthdays, so guess who got to have an entire party dedicated to her.........
Every month we celebrate the patient birthdays on our unit by having a party with cake, ice cream, and music. It is a chance for everyone to forget that they are in a hospital, on a special diet, have no place to call home, etc. etc. etc. Let's just say it's a good time.... every time.
This month there were no patient birthdays, so guess who got to have an entire party dedicated to her.........
ME!
What an honor. I mean that with all seriousness. The party started when I was back in the breakroom eating my lunch. Someone came back and asked me to come out to the front desk for a minute, and yes, I fell for it. When I got out to the dayroom everyone started singing!
It was Super Cool!
Many of you know my job, and some of you have probably heard some of my better stories about the people I work with. I have been called things that would make a sailor blush, been physically threatened more times than I would ever admit to my mother, and even had a curse placed on my unborn child(that was on Kate, by the way........explains a lot doesn't it? haha) And tomorrow, there is a good chance that one of those examples might happen again. But for today, for those wonderful, magical 30 minutes, I was the SuperStar of unit 3C.
Hope your day had that kind of JOY.
Sarah
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Greinke Wins! Greinke Wins!
I was just about to "sign out" when I heard the news!
This totally makes my night.
I can't wait to call my brother.
Let's Go Royals...clap, clap, clap clap clap!
Zack Greinke won the 2009 American League Cy Young Award!
HOORAY!
Did you know that we love the Royals?This totally makes my night.
I can't wait to call my brother.
Let's Go Royals...clap, clap, clap clap clap!
It's another one of those posts.....
I need to blog about so many different things...none of them worth making a whole post about.
1. It snowed today! The first snow of the season and my girls were screaming with excitement when they woke up to see it. Even though it was a wet, ugly, barely cover the grass type of snow.....it brought that JOY that I love to see in their eyes. Kate was outside playing in it by 8:30am.
2. While she was playing in the snow, my friend and co-worker Terrence called to tell us that he became a father lastnight! M'Brace Roberta Turner weighed in at 6lbs 6oz and is 19inches long. Andy, the girls, and I went to visit and spoil them this morning. I wish them much love and God's continued grace in their lives. Pray for Terrence as he becomes a father to a little girl. He has no idea how much JOY comes with that job.
3. By this time next week, Tess will have undergone surgery to remove her tonsils, adenoids, and have the tissue in her nose cauterized to reduce inflammation. My beautiful girl hasn't taken a clear breath of air through her nose in years due to allergies. I can't describe how it feels to be so excited for her post-surgery results while still agonizing over the actual surgery and post-surgery healing. I know this is a very routine procedure, and we have complete faith in her physician, but that doesn't stop the worry. We are so blessed to have such healthy children. I pray that this is the biggest medical issue we have with our girls for a very long time. Pray for Tess, pray for us, pray for those taking care of our little girl during and after the surgery. God is good.
4. This blogger has been S-I-C-K. I know it is health care blasphemy to say that a flu vaccination was the cause of my illness.....but I'm just sayin'..........
I got the H1N1 vaccine on Thursday and was feeling fine and dandy. Friday my head and neck were achy and I had simple cold like symptoms. Saturday night I was throwing up every hour and my joints felt like they were on fire. Coincidence? I THINK NOT!
I have never gotten a flu vaccine in all my 15 years of health care. No evidence based reason, I just chose not to. This year I still didn't get the regular flu vaccine, however they offered the H1N1 for free at work, so I figured I'd try and prevent bringing home this big bad bug to the girls. Did I mention that no one else in my family got sick(thank you Jesus) and we had all eaten the same food? It was a rough weekend, but today I ate real food, for the first time since Saturday, and it tasted pretty darn good. My thanks and complete love to my husband for taking over this small business we call a family.
And now for the apology that is a week overdue!
I just knew I would forget to mention someone in my Veterans' Day tribute to all the military people in my life. So here goes my apology and salute....
Our Grandpa Cecil Turley for his service in the Air Force.
This is the only grandpa I have left that I can wrap my arms around in a hug.
Sorry Grandpa, I love you.
(Many thanks to those of you that reminded me)
It was a cold blechy day in Crazytown too.
1. It snowed today! The first snow of the season and my girls were screaming with excitement when they woke up to see it. Even though it was a wet, ugly, barely cover the grass type of snow.....it brought that JOY that I love to see in their eyes. Kate was outside playing in it by 8:30am.
2. While she was playing in the snow, my friend and co-worker Terrence called to tell us that he became a father lastnight! M'Brace Roberta Turner weighed in at 6lbs 6oz and is 19inches long. Andy, the girls, and I went to visit and spoil them this morning. I wish them much love and God's continued grace in their lives. Pray for Terrence as he becomes a father to a little girl. He has no idea how much JOY comes with that job.
3. By this time next week, Tess will have undergone surgery to remove her tonsils, adenoids, and have the tissue in her nose cauterized to reduce inflammation. My beautiful girl hasn't taken a clear breath of air through her nose in years due to allergies. I can't describe how it feels to be so excited for her post-surgery results while still agonizing over the actual surgery and post-surgery healing. I know this is a very routine procedure, and we have complete faith in her physician, but that doesn't stop the worry. We are so blessed to have such healthy children. I pray that this is the biggest medical issue we have with our girls for a very long time. Pray for Tess, pray for us, pray for those taking care of our little girl during and after the surgery. God is good.
4. This blogger has been S-I-C-K. I know it is health care blasphemy to say that a flu vaccination was the cause of my illness.....but I'm just sayin'..........
I got the H1N1 vaccine on Thursday and was feeling fine and dandy. Friday my head and neck were achy and I had simple cold like symptoms. Saturday night I was throwing up every hour and my joints felt like they were on fire. Coincidence? I THINK NOT!
I have never gotten a flu vaccine in all my 15 years of health care. No evidence based reason, I just chose not to. This year I still didn't get the regular flu vaccine, however they offered the H1N1 for free at work, so I figured I'd try and prevent bringing home this big bad bug to the girls. Did I mention that no one else in my family got sick(thank you Jesus) and we had all eaten the same food? It was a rough weekend, but today I ate real food, for the first time since Saturday, and it tasted pretty darn good. My thanks and complete love to my husband for taking over this small business we call a family.
And now for the apology that is a week overdue!
I just knew I would forget to mention someone in my Veterans' Day tribute to all the military people in my life. So here goes my apology and salute....
Our Grandpa Cecil Turley for his service in the Air Force.
This is the only grandpa I have left that I can wrap my arms around in a hug.
Sorry Grandpa, I love you.
(Many thanks to those of you that reminded me)
It was a cold blechy day in Crazytown too.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Happy Holiday!
I went grocery shopping this morning and could not believe the traffic on the streets, in the parking lots, and in the stores. "Don't these people have jobs?"
Then it hit me......IT'S VETERANS' DAY!
Happy Veterans' Day everyone!!!
To all the Veterans' in my life....thank you for your service.
My Grandpa Bill for serving in the Air Force during WW2
My Dad for serving in the Air Force (see post from October 5th)
My Uncle Bernard Greiner, retired from the Air Force
My Cousin Coby Greiner currently serving in the Marines
My Uncle Earl Norris for serving in the Navy
Uncle Lance Staves for serving in the Navy(?)sorry Lance if I'm wrong
Cousin Greg Turley currently serving in the Navy
Cousin Brad Turley currently serving with the Army
If I have forgotten someone, I owe you an apology! So please please let me know, that I may give you this small, but well deserved recognition!!
The Mayor proclaims this a holiday in Crazytown too!
Mayor Martens
Then it hit me......IT'S VETERANS' DAY!
Happy Veterans' Day everyone!!!
To all the Veterans' in my life....thank you for your service.
My Grandpa Bill for serving in the Air Force during WW2
My Dad for serving in the Air Force (see post from October 5th)
My Uncle Bernard Greiner, retired from the Air Force
My Cousin Coby Greiner currently serving in the Marines
My Uncle Earl Norris for serving in the Navy
Uncle Lance Staves for serving in the Navy(?)sorry Lance if I'm wrong
Cousin Greg Turley currently serving in the Navy
Cousin Brad Turley currently serving with the Army
If I have forgotten someone, I owe you an apology! So please please let me know, that I may give you this small, but well deserved recognition!!
The Mayor proclaims this a holiday in Crazytown too!
Mayor Martens
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Slowly crawling back from the edge
Ever hear the saying "fell off the face of the Earth" in reference to not seeing/talking to someone in a while? That's what I feel happened to me the last week...or two. So, I am slowly crawling back up and over the edge that I just fell off. Clawing my way back into the world of blogging.......
Funny Jane stuff:
-She had her first experience with an "asleep foot" She had been sitting with her foot up under her bottom while in her chair at the table. When she went to get out , her foot was bright red and she kept shouting and looking down at her foot trying to figure out what was going on.
-I bought her a new pair of shoes that has this cute little kitten face on the toe part. She was watching television and a cat came on.....she pointed at the t.v. and then pointed down at her shoes. COOL. I heart learning.
Funny Kate stuff:
-She is in children's choir at church, and has found a new passion for singing and making up her own songs. Her current genre of songs is "God" songs.....an example I tried to quickly write down as she sang it in the bath tub..... to no particular melody, just a joyful made-up tune.
Funny Jane stuff:
-She had her first experience with an "asleep foot" She had been sitting with her foot up under her bottom while in her chair at the table. When she went to get out , her foot was bright red and she kept shouting and looking down at her foot trying to figure out what was going on.
-I bought her a new pair of shoes that has this cute little kitten face on the toe part. She was watching television and a cat came on.....she pointed at the t.v. and then pointed down at her shoes. COOL. I heart learning.
Funny Kate stuff:
-She is in children's choir at church, and has found a new passion for singing and making up her own songs. Her current genre of songs is "God" songs.....an example I tried to quickly write down as she sang it in the bath tub..... to no particular melody, just a joyful made-up tune.
"I love God and He loves me and He loves my mom and my new bathroom. God loves the whole world and all the children, not just me, and He blesses us and all the children in the world. God is great and wonderful and I love God. He gives us bubbles and toys and my bed. God is sooo great and I'm so glad He blesses my house"
Amen to that, sister!
More from the Mayor tomorrow.....
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Random thoughts from the Mayor
I can't seem to wrap my mind around a complete thought for a post this week. Some days there are a dozen things I'd like to write about and no time to write. This week there is time, but.......sigh, nothing. So I thought I'd share some fun and funny things that have happened this week in "C-town"
Kate came home from preschool and when I asked how her day had gone she simply said "Not good, mom." This was a change from her usually animated descriptions, so I asked what had happened to make it not good. "I was bored." she said. "They just didn't have enough for me to do today." HA! Good stuff.
I went to pick up Tess from an after school activity and a teacher I hadn't met asked if I was her mom. Not sure whether I should admit to this or not (haha) I hesitantly said "yes." She then looked at me like she had the most delicious secret and said "I just love your daughter...she is just amazing. I didn't get to have her in my class this year, but I...JUST...LOVE...HER." Not to brag, okay forget it, I'm getting ready to brag......but this is the 2nd time I have had an interaction with a teacher about this! Tess's first grade teacher was new to the school, and she told me at Parent Teacher conferences that she just loved having Tess in her class, and thought it was fun that the other teachers were so jealous of her! My buttons are bursting with pride...and fat.....but mostly pride.
To give equal press time to the young residents of Crazytown, I need to type something about Baby Jane. I wish I could spell all the new words that she can say! She points and "talks" to tell us what she wants, she can shake her head to indicate "yes" and she just loves to scrunch up her face and give a cheesy grin. Such a funny girl. It will be interesting to see what she thinks of wearing a Halloween costume.
Happy Halloweeeeen! My costume is black fingernail polish that I applied during "Grooming & Hygiene" group yesterday at work. Pretty sure I am going to regret that decision when it's time to take the polish off. I have to say that I've felt pretty sassy though, with my freaky black nails.
It's almost Friday!
Mayor Martens
Kate came home from preschool and when I asked how her day had gone she simply said "Not good, mom." This was a change from her usually animated descriptions, so I asked what had happened to make it not good. "I was bored." she said. "They just didn't have enough for me to do today." HA! Good stuff.
I went to pick up Tess from an after school activity and a teacher I hadn't met asked if I was her mom. Not sure whether I should admit to this or not (haha) I hesitantly said "yes." She then looked at me like she had the most delicious secret and said "I just love your daughter...she is just amazing. I didn't get to have her in my class this year, but I...JUST...LOVE...HER." Not to brag, okay forget it, I'm getting ready to brag......but this is the 2nd time I have had an interaction with a teacher about this! Tess's first grade teacher was new to the school, and she told me at Parent Teacher conferences that she just loved having Tess in her class, and thought it was fun that the other teachers were so jealous of her! My buttons are bursting with pride...and fat.....but mostly pride.
To give equal press time to the young residents of Crazytown, I need to type something about Baby Jane. I wish I could spell all the new words that she can say! She points and "talks" to tell us what she wants, she can shake her head to indicate "yes" and she just loves to scrunch up her face and give a cheesy grin. Such a funny girl. It will be interesting to see what she thinks of wearing a Halloween costume.
Happy Halloweeeeen! My costume is black fingernail polish that I applied during "Grooming & Hygiene" group yesterday at work. Pretty sure I am going to regret that decision when it's time to take the polish off. I have to say that I've felt pretty sassy though, with my freaky black nails.
It's almost Friday!
Mayor Martens
Monday, October 19, 2009
I received the nicest compliment from a co-worker this weekend. She and I rarely work togther, and if truth be told, I wasn't that impressed with her the last time we did. Shame on me.
I've mentioned before in my blog that I teach a Bible Study to junior and senior high kids every Wednesday. We have more down time on the weekends at work, and I have to admit that I was studying the lesson on company time. Your tax dollars hard at work! sorry......
When she walked into the room my guilt poured out of my mouth like a faucet. "Do you need my help with something? "I'm sorry, I'm just working on my Bible study lesson for the week."
"Your Bible study lesson? she questioned....then said "You know what? I knew you were Christian! I could just tell."
I'll take that, instead of "Have you lost some weight?" any time.
Sarah
I've mentioned before in my blog that I teach a Bible Study to junior and senior high kids every Wednesday. We have more down time on the weekends at work, and I have to admit that I was studying the lesson on company time. Your tax dollars hard at work! sorry......
When she walked into the room my guilt poured out of my mouth like a faucet. "Do you need my help with something? "I'm sorry, I'm just working on my Bible study lesson for the week."
"Your Bible study lesson? she questioned....then said "You know what? I knew you were Christian! I could just tell."
I'll take that, instead of "Have you lost some weight?" any time.
Sarah
Monday, October 12, 2009
Kate the GREAT!
My baby had a cavity. A teeny, tiny, ever so small spot on her tooth that was found last week at her first ever dentist appointment.
Today, we went to get the work done. I had really downplayed the appointment. Maybe mentioned it once or twice, and simply said that the dentist was going to "fix that spot on your tooth." I had a worry deep down that she might freak out....but just didn't know.
Turns out she just needed me for the ride.
Kate said cheerful hellos to everyone, climbed up in the big chair, and let them get to work while she watched cartoons on Boomerang. Oh, how I wished I had my camera! Here was my little girl doing what many adults can't do! She was totally relaxed, with kid-sized protective glasses on(cute!) and two large adults leaning over her with 4 separate instruments working in her little mouth. Not a complaint, not a tear, not even a flinch!
We went for a well deserved Sonic chocolate shake afterwards. Honestly, I was so high on pride that I probably would have bought her a new car if she'd asked!
Today, we went to get the work done. I had really downplayed the appointment. Maybe mentioned it once or twice, and simply said that the dentist was going to "fix that spot on your tooth." I had a worry deep down that she might freak out....but just didn't know.
Turns out she just needed me for the ride.
Kate said cheerful hellos to everyone, climbed up in the big chair, and let them get to work while she watched cartoons on Boomerang. Oh, how I wished I had my camera! Here was my little girl doing what many adults can't do! She was totally relaxed, with kid-sized protective glasses on(cute!) and two large adults leaning over her with 4 separate instruments working in her little mouth. Not a complaint, not a tear, not even a flinch!
We went for a well deserved Sonic chocolate shake afterwards. Honestly, I was so high on pride that I probably would have bought her a new car if she'd asked!
If I Were a Rich (Wo)man
So I went to the grocery store in town today. I don't normally shop there as the amount of groceries I buy would easily cost a bazillion dollars.
I don't have a bazillion dollars.
That is why what happened at the grocery store was so funny.
Does anyone else stretch their paycheck farther than it was ever meant to stretch? If you don't, then quit reading, because you will not get anything from this post.
If you do, then read on, my friend....this post's for you!
I paid with my debit card, and as the receipt was printing, the screen said:
APPROVED!
CONGRATULATIONS!
At first I thought "good grief"......that is pathetic. This machine is actually congratulating me for using a valid form of payment.
Then I realized that my good grief thought was followed by a little mental sigh of relief......and then a smile.
A self esteem boost where I least expected it!
It's been a looooong two weeks.
Sarah
FYI: It was Big V Country Mart if anyone else is looking for a midweek pick-me-up! :)
I don't have a bazillion dollars.
That is why what happened at the grocery store was so funny.
Does anyone else stretch their paycheck farther than it was ever meant to stretch? If you don't, then quit reading, because you will not get anything from this post.
If you do, then read on, my friend....this post's for you!
I paid with my debit card, and as the receipt was printing, the screen said:
APPROVED!
CONGRATULATIONS!
At first I thought "good grief"......that is pathetic. This machine is actually congratulating me for using a valid form of payment.
Then I realized that my good grief thought was followed by a little mental sigh of relief......and then a smile.
A self esteem boost where I least expected it!
It's been a looooong two weeks.
Sarah
FYI: It was Big V Country Mart if anyone else is looking for a midweek pick-me-up! :)
Monday, October 5, 2009
Happy Veterans Day! A month early........
Sometimes I forget that my dad is a veteran. His military service happened before I was born, during the Vietnam Conflict. He was stationed in Thailand and when he enlisted, he had the choice of flying helicopters or loading bombs. Helicopters were getting shot down too frequently, so he chose bombs. I am SO thankful for that. Because he was 25(!) years old he was called "grandpa" by his comrades. The old guy in the group..... says a lot about the kids that were fighting for our country, doesn't it?! This picture is from the 2009 Holt County Fall Festival in Oregon, MO, where my parents grew up and my grandparents still live. They honored military service men and women that were in the crowd during the parade. My dad is standing fourth person from the right in the picture and my girls are in the left corner clapping for their grandpa. I am smiling with pride and awe that my dad is among those cool people.
KHS Homecoming 2009
Our Bailey going to her first Homecoming dance!
Look everyone! Aunt Ola's necklace went to Homecoming! 
Andy and Tess in the Homecoming parade.
I love the 80s!For "Decades Day" at Tess's school we crimped her hair, did a side ponytail, polo shirt with the collar up, and tight rolled her jeans! Kate liked big sister's hair, so we did hers too!
Guess who figured out how to download pics today!
Sometimes the best pictures are unplanned. This is in Sam's Club parking lot. The girls were watching us load the groceries.
Kate blew me away with her writing skills when making Aunt Pam's get well card. She just needed me to spell what she wanted to say. "Get well Pam(backwards P) I Love You, Kate"
Hibachi Japanese Steakhouse....A night out with co-workersSee the shrimp in the upper left corner?
Heck yeah, I caught it!
Heck yeah, I caught it!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Missing
MISSING FOR ONE MONTH!
Have you seen this happy, healthy family?
They might not be easy to recognize as they are tired, high on medications, and probably covered in snot. Promises of sleep, a cough suppressant and a box of Puffs with lotion might work to lure them to you. If you do see them, talk slowly and with a soft comforting tone of voice. They are easy to irritate and have little patience left.
Monday, September 28, 2009
My daughter by another mother
Drake Softball Defeats Iowa State At Big Four Classic:
IOWA CITY, IOWA - The Drake softball team finished play at the Big Four Classic on Sunday (Sept. 27), with a 4-1 win over Iowa State.
Junior pitcher Jenna DeLong (Dalton Gardens, Idaho/Coeur d'Alene) went the distance from the mound and collected two hits for the Bulldogs, while freshman outfielder Sam West (Kearney, Mo./Kearney) also had two hits.
Drake closes the fall schedule hosting Missouri Western in a doubleheader Sunday (Oct. 4) set to begin at 12 p.m.
Just thought I'd spread a little joy on this Monday morning.
IOWA CITY, IOWA - The Drake softball team finished play at the Big Four Classic on Sunday (Sept. 27), with a 4-1 win over Iowa State.
Junior pitcher Jenna DeLong (Dalton Gardens, Idaho/Coeur d'Alene) went the distance from the mound and collected two hits for the Bulldogs, while freshman outfielder Sam West (Kearney, Mo./Kearney) also had two hits.
Drake closes the fall schedule hosting Missouri Western in a doubleheader Sunday (Oct. 4) set to begin at 12 p.m.
This is our "oldest daughter" Samantha West. How you might not know about her I cannot possibly imagine, as we have claimed her for the last 8(can you believe that Shelley!) years. She has a younger(almost 16!) equally fabulous, sister named Bailey. We love these girls, and their real parents, like we have known them for 80 years instead of 8. Can't imagine life without them.
Just thought I'd spread a little joy on this Monday morning.
Friday, September 25, 2009
My baby is growing up
This week Jane learned something very important.
This week Jane learned something that is universal in any language.
This week Jane learned something that she will use for the rest of her life.
This week Jane learned to give a "High Five"
Next week we are going to work on the fist bump.
Happy weekend,
Sarah
This week Jane learned something that is universal in any language.
This week Jane learned something that she will use for the rest of her life.
This week Jane learned to give a "High Five"
Next week we are going to work on the fist bump.
Happy weekend,
Sarah
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Birthday Boy!
The Boy in our house is having a birthday today!
I sure do love you.
The Mayor
Happy birthday to you....Happy birthday to you....
Happy birthday dear Andy....
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
I sure do love you.
The Mayor
oh Momma...
If you are a germ-a-phobe this post is (NOT) for you!
Yesterday Andy, Kate, Jane and I went to a playground. While we were hard at play, Kate declares she needs to poop. I look around and see the choices of 1. Port-a-potty or 2. Behind a tree. After giving Kate her options she chose the "blue box."
It took one step inside, and Kate says, with the seriousness of a heart attack, "Oh momma, I don't think I can do this."
Take a moment to make your mental picture of what her 3 year old eyes saw.
Oh yeah, the lid was UP! Don't forget to incorporate that into your image.
So with the urge to throw up in my mouth AND the desire to build character/make this a teaching moment/be brave for my baby.....I urged her to just stay focused on the pooping. Don't let your imagination wander, I tell her. Just poop and get it done.
She did, we survived, and after bathing ourselves in hand sanitizer, we went back to enjoying the amazing day God had given us.
I firmly believe that God gave us thick skin on our butts for a reason.
Just another day in Crazytown...
Sarah
Yesterday Andy, Kate, Jane and I went to a playground. While we were hard at play, Kate declares she needs to poop. I look around and see the choices of 1. Port-a-potty or 2. Behind a tree. After giving Kate her options she chose the "blue box."
It took one step inside, and Kate says, with the seriousness of a heart attack, "Oh momma, I don't think I can do this."
Take a moment to make your mental picture of what her 3 year old eyes saw.
Oh yeah, the lid was UP! Don't forget to incorporate that into your image.
So with the urge to throw up in my mouth AND the desire to build character/make this a teaching moment/be brave for my baby.....I urged her to just stay focused on the pooping. Don't let your imagination wander, I tell her. Just poop and get it done.
She did, we survived, and after bathing ourselves in hand sanitizer, we went back to enjoying the amazing day God had given us.
I firmly believe that God gave us thick skin on our butts for a reason.
Just another day in Crazytown...
Sarah
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
I have a BIG mouth and lots of friends....
This is a post about being misled, poor customer service, and buyer's remorse. If you aren't in the mood to hear me rant and rave....simply click on that white x in the red box at the upper right corner of your computer screen.
Still here? okay, settle in, it's about to get ugly.
I took Jane for her 1 year pictures today..please don't focus on the fact that she is 14 months old already. She has had a series of unfortunate events that have left imperfections on her otherwise perfect face. SO...not knowing how well her 'tude would be for pictures (have you met her?) I chose the closest discount portrait place in the area. I know, you are thinking "I thought Sarah was smarter than that! Isn't this her third kid?" try and stay focused, people.....
I was totally jazzed to find a young, fun, fellow mother, with personality(!) as the photographer. Everyone knows that it is a total crap shoot with these places. However, after the initial entry of my personal info into the computer the session went to H-e-double hockey sticks.
NUMBER 1: She answered the phone 3 times while we were taking pictures. Tell me one person that doesn't know that timing is of the essence when photographing a toddler. We wasted tons of good smiles during the calls.
NUMBER 2: I specifically told her I did not want a cheesy themey background that Walmart is famous for. What was the first background she put up(while I was chasing Jane and Kate around and not paying attention) but a %#*$ themed background. "I just want to try it....I think it will be cute!" she says. Which I reply by saying "okay, but if her best smiles are with this background I'm going to be upset."
Jane's precious smile is front and center of a faux cobblestone path with a rainbow palate of flowers lining the way......%$#@!!!!!
NUMBER 3: Last, but so totally not least....she quoted a price when I was choosing, told me a different price as she swiped my debit card, and when I told her I felt misled she flatly said "they've already been sent to the printer so it's too late now." @*$#!!!
I've already shot off an email to their customer service, posted it on this blog, and still can feel my heart rate rise when I think about it.
It's not really about the money. I would have spent this much any place I went...probably more. Besides, it's hard to have true buyer's remorse when the purchase was adorable pictures of my child.
She didn't say "I'm sorry."
That would have made all the difference.
"I'm sorry" for all the swearing with the symbol keys.
Sarah
Still here? okay, settle in, it's about to get ugly.
I took Jane for her 1 year pictures today..please don't focus on the fact that she is 14 months old already. She has had a series of unfortunate events that have left imperfections on her otherwise perfect face. SO...not knowing how well her 'tude would be for pictures (have you met her?) I chose the closest discount portrait place in the area. I know, you are thinking "I thought Sarah was smarter than that! Isn't this her third kid?" try and stay focused, people.....
I was totally jazzed to find a young, fun, fellow mother, with personality(!) as the photographer. Everyone knows that it is a total crap shoot with these places. However, after the initial entry of my personal info into the computer the session went to H-e-double hockey sticks.
NUMBER 1: She answered the phone 3 times while we were taking pictures. Tell me one person that doesn't know that timing is of the essence when photographing a toddler. We wasted tons of good smiles during the calls.
NUMBER 2: I specifically told her I did not want a cheesy themey background that Walmart is famous for. What was the first background she put up(while I was chasing Jane and Kate around and not paying attention) but a %#*$ themed background. "I just want to try it....I think it will be cute!" she says. Which I reply by saying "okay, but if her best smiles are with this background I'm going to be upset."
Jane's precious smile is front and center of a faux cobblestone path with a rainbow palate of flowers lining the way......%$#@!!!!!
NUMBER 3: Last, but so totally not least....she quoted a price when I was choosing, told me a different price as she swiped my debit card, and when I told her I felt misled she flatly said "they've already been sent to the printer so it's too late now." @*$#!!!
I've already shot off an email to their customer service, posted it on this blog, and still can feel my heart rate rise when I think about it.
It's not really about the money. I would have spent this much any place I went...probably more. Besides, it's hard to have true buyer's remorse when the purchase was adorable pictures of my child.
She didn't say "I'm sorry."
That would have made all the difference.
"I'm sorry" for all the swearing with the symbol keys.
Sarah
Sunday, September 13, 2009
The Politics of Elementary School
I just remembered a funny conversation Tess and I had on Friday after school. Something I have always done with her, and now I'm doing with Kate, is ask them to tell me 3 things they did that day. I have found that it inspires more conversation that just the closed-ended question of "Did you have a good day at school?" This is even how my teenage "daughters" across the street....that's a story for a whole separate post.....tell me about their day.
Last Friday was Student Council Elections at Hawthorne Elementary School. I had seen a few "vote for ____" campaign things in Tess's school bag throughout the week, but didn't realize the importance of the election to all the grades, even 2nd graders!
So I asked her who had won, and she named off the names of kids I didn't know...but then followed up with her commentary on how and why a particular person won. The best was that Spencer Stewart won the presidency because "he had the coolest posters, and got all the boys to vote for him........they didn't even listen to his speech!" When I asked what she remembered from his campaign speech she said "that he was honest, and trustworthy, and respectful....blah blah blah....everybody said those things."
Democracy at its best. The person with the coolest stuff, wins.
Have a great week!
Sarah
Last Friday was Student Council Elections at Hawthorne Elementary School. I had seen a few "vote for ____" campaign things in Tess's school bag throughout the week, but didn't realize the importance of the election to all the grades, even 2nd graders!
So I asked her who had won, and she named off the names of kids I didn't know...but then followed up with her commentary on how and why a particular person won. The best was that Spencer Stewart won the presidency because "he had the coolest posters, and got all the boys to vote for him........they didn't even listen to his speech!" When I asked what she remembered from his campaign speech she said "that he was honest, and trustworthy, and respectful....blah blah blah....everybody said those things."
Democracy at its best. The person with the coolest stuff, wins.
Have a great week!
Sarah
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Music to my ears
Ever have a day when a song seems to speak to you?
I am blessed to be a part-time nurse and a full-time mom. I know I have more days off than many working women, and I thank God for that daily. Seriously, how do you ladies get anything done? However, even with the days off, I find myself pressed for time to do chores, get shopping done, etc. Today was one of those days. I didn't sleep well lastnight and was having a low tolerence Tuesday. Here is when music and my dear sweet baby Jane changed my day.
I was trying to mop the kitchen floor and Jane was in the way. AARRGH! "I just want to get this done, would you move it please?" Then I noticed that what she wanted was a drink out of my water bottle which was sitting up on the counter. To avoid the deluge of water, that usually spills out of her mouth when she takes too big of a drink, I put in a curvy "silly" straw that was on the counter beside it. Are you ready for the "Ah-ha" moment?
I sat on the kitchen floor and watched my daughter drink out of that silly straw for 10 minutes! She would watch the liquid come through the curves, take a drink, and then smile and laugh. For one fleeting minute I thought, "crap I totally need to get this floor done" and then....wait for it....
My Ipod started to play "A Lovely Day" by Bill Withers.
"Then I look at you... And the world's alright with me. Just one look at you...and I know it's gonna be...A lovely daaay!" Okay, God. I'll slow down and love this moment.
The next song on the shuffle....Alicia Keys...."Superwoman"
"I am Superwoman. Yes, I am...Yes, she is. Even when I'm a mess, I still put on a vest, with an "S" on my chest, oh yes, I'm a Superwoman."
Enough said.
Sarah
oh yeah, Kate also told me over breakfast that I'm "so 2000 and late"
(she's a little young for a Black Eyed Peas reference, don't you think?)
I am blessed to be a part-time nurse and a full-time mom. I know I have more days off than many working women, and I thank God for that daily. Seriously, how do you ladies get anything done? However, even with the days off, I find myself pressed for time to do chores, get shopping done, etc. Today was one of those days. I didn't sleep well lastnight and was having a low tolerence Tuesday. Here is when music and my dear sweet baby Jane changed my day.
I was trying to mop the kitchen floor and Jane was in the way. AARRGH! "I just want to get this done, would you move it please?" Then I noticed that what she wanted was a drink out of my water bottle which was sitting up on the counter. To avoid the deluge of water, that usually spills out of her mouth when she takes too big of a drink, I put in a curvy "silly" straw that was on the counter beside it. Are you ready for the "Ah-ha" moment?
I sat on the kitchen floor and watched my daughter drink out of that silly straw for 10 minutes! She would watch the liquid come through the curves, take a drink, and then smile and laugh. For one fleeting minute I thought, "crap I totally need to get this floor done" and then....wait for it....
My Ipod started to play "A Lovely Day" by Bill Withers.
"Then I look at you... And the world's alright with me. Just one look at you...and I know it's gonna be...A lovely daaay!" Okay, God. I'll slow down and love this moment.
The next song on the shuffle....Alicia Keys...."Superwoman"
"I am Superwoman. Yes, I am...Yes, she is. Even when I'm a mess, I still put on a vest, with an "S" on my chest, oh yes, I'm a Superwoman."
Enough said.
Sarah
oh yeah, Kate also told me over breakfast that I'm "so 2000 and late"
(she's a little young for a Black Eyed Peas reference, don't you think?)
Friday, September 4, 2009
I'm writing this post to encourage you to go to my sister-in-law's blog (click on Haskamp Holla over on the right side of this blog page) and read her post from September 4th.
She is so stinkin' creative.
I want to be an aunt almost as much as she wants to be a mom.
So while they wait, we wait.
While they pray, we pray.
When they rejoice, WE WILL TOO!
Did I mention I will always have gum? (sorry for the Friends reference)
:) Sarah
She is so stinkin' creative.
I want to be an aunt almost as much as she wants to be a mom.
So while they wait, we wait.
While they pray, we pray.
When they rejoice, WE WILL TOO!
Did I mention I will always have gum? (sorry for the Friends reference)
:) Sarah
Thursday, September 3, 2009
8 things I love about Tess
8. She's kind of a big deal...people "know" her.
7. She reads at a 6th grade level, with the vocabulary, expression and dynamics of an adult.
6. She has patience with her sisters, even when they don't deserve it.
5. She has patience with her parents, even when we don't deserve it.
4. She knows how to tell if a snake is poisonous just by looking at it.
3. She's willing to get close enough to a snake to check if it is poisonous.
2. She has a beautiful smile and an amazing spirit. She's wise beyond her years.
1. She is so crazy smart that I sometimes worry she isn't my child.
Let's take a stroll down memory lane....
September 3, 2001 was a great day. Andy was at the fire station in Gladstone, and my mom, a friend, and I went to Santa Calagon Days (just spelling it how it sounds...sorry). I was 40 weeks pregnant with my first child and as large as Shamu. My cute little size 7 feet were swollen to a size 10 and I could only wear flip flops. I had a very restful nap that afternoon, went to a family bbq to celebrate Labor Day (irony at its best) and then went to bed for an amazing nights sleep.
At 5am I woke up pretty sure I had peed the bed. After a few cuss words ( I was so totally not going to change the sheets, but put a towel over it and go back to sleep! ha!) I woke up enough to realize what was going on. I showered, shaved my legs, CURLED my hair, put on make-up and settled in to watch the morning news. At 6a, I called my parents to tell them they might need substitute teachers for the day. I waited until 7a (didn't want to wake him!) to call Andy at Gladstone to tell him the news. Mind you, I was feeling great, excited about the day, totally jazzed that labor was so easy!
After I hung up with Andy I started getting my first contractions. Nothing bad, just noticable. By 7:30 I called Andy back because I was doubled over on the floor with contractions coming every 5-7 minutes. He was just getting in his truck in Gladstone and stayed on the phone with me to keep me from losing my mind! We broke a lot of traffic laws on the way to the hospital (it was rush hour) and had someone at NKCH waiting for us at the ER doors....a perk of having a paramedic husband with the ER nursing desk on his speed-dial!
We got to the hospital around 8:15, were in the room by 8:20 and had our beautiful Brogan Tess at 9:19. I can remember hearing the nurses say "we don't even have a chart put together yet!" as they were trying to take care of both of us.
September 3, 2001 was a great day.
September 4, 2001 was even better.
Happy 8th Birthday Tess. I love you more than anything.
At 5am I woke up pretty sure I had peed the bed. After a few cuss words ( I was so totally not going to change the sheets, but put a towel over it and go back to sleep! ha!) I woke up enough to realize what was going on. I showered, shaved my legs, CURLED my hair, put on make-up and settled in to watch the morning news. At 6a, I called my parents to tell them they might need substitute teachers for the day. I waited until 7a (didn't want to wake him!) to call Andy at Gladstone to tell him the news. Mind you, I was feeling great, excited about the day, totally jazzed that labor was so easy!
After I hung up with Andy I started getting my first contractions. Nothing bad, just noticable. By 7:30 I called Andy back because I was doubled over on the floor with contractions coming every 5-7 minutes. He was just getting in his truck in Gladstone and stayed on the phone with me to keep me from losing my mind! We broke a lot of traffic laws on the way to the hospital (it was rush hour) and had someone at NKCH waiting for us at the ER doors....a perk of having a paramedic husband with the ER nursing desk on his speed-dial!
We got to the hospital around 8:15, were in the room by 8:20 and had our beautiful Brogan Tess at 9:19. I can remember hearing the nurses say "we don't even have a chart put together yet!" as they were trying to take care of both of us.
September 3, 2001 was a great day.
September 4, 2001 was even better.
Happy 8th Birthday Tess. I love you more than anything.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
A Song for the Mama
I posted a blog about how fantabulous my day had started and now I want to WOW you with how great it is coming to an end. My daughter, Tess, wrote a song for me. Anytime someone writes a song about me/for me, you can bet it is going to make the blog.
Here is how it goes. I had her write it down for me so I could keep it FOREVER.
She's Good (clap, clap)
She's Great (clap, clap)
She's my best friend mom.
She's Good (clap,clap)
She's Great (clap,clap)
She deserves the opposite of hate....which is LOVE!
Joyfully,
Sarah
Here is how it goes. I had her write it down for me so I could keep it FOREVER.
She's Good (clap, clap)
She's Great (clap, clap)
She's my best friend mom.
She's Good (clap,clap)
She's Great (clap,clap)
She deserves the opposite of hate....which is LOVE!
Joyfully,
Sarah
I wish volunteer work paid better!
I spent the morning doing one of my favorite things--Volunteering! Once a month I go to the Matthew 25 clinic in the basement of the Good Samaritan Center in Excelsior Springs. It is a free medical clinic that a church member, who is also an ER doctor, started. I am also proud to call him a friend. Here is the kicker....I go to do this "good deed for others" and end up enriching my life each time. The time I spend there flies by, I get to sit and visit with people and just learn. It is a long running joke in my house that I have a sign on my forehead that says "enough about me...let's talk about YOU!" because I am forever getting more than I bargain for when I say "Hi! How are you?"
What I am learning is that people are having a tough go of it. The economy is bad, jobs are scarce, and there is more uninsured people than I want to mention. (And I am selfish enough to get down when my credit card bill comes and I forgot how much I had just charged on my last shopping spree. Time for AA.....Attitude Adjustment!) So, I listen, I smile, and then I tell them what a good job they are doing with the lousy luck they've got. I spoil the children (with hugs and tickles, coloring books, gratuitious praise for their drawings, endless games of hide and seek, asking about their favorite things to do at school, and I never, ever tell them that they can't spin in the office chairs.) and I spoil the adults (by just sitting there and listening.) I swear, I would volunteer full-time if it paid the bills!
By the way, we do medical stuff there too. :) Today we did a school physical for a new 7th grader who is going to play football....and I bet he excels, because his eyes lit UP when he told me about it. We helped a person with raging poison ivy, a mother who had an abcessed tooth get antibiotics and a referral for free dental care, and gave reassurance to a woman who found a lump in her breast and got her a referral for GYN care. Because, get this, she had been to her Dr. 3 years ago, then lost her insurance. Now she needs to go back, but because of the 3 year time frame she is considered a new patient and THEY ARE NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Soooo she has a lump in her breast and an IUD(sorry for the TMI) that needs removed and can't see anyone without self pay $ upfront. This health care reform better get figured out and fast. People are getting mentally and physically beat down by the current system.
As I step down from my soap box I will sign off. This day started off fantabulous, and now I am off to "lead" the teenagers through the book of Daniel. Wish me luck. Better yet, Pray for me.
Sarah
PS. Find somewhere to volunteer. You will get so much JOY from it!
What I am learning is that people are having a tough go of it. The economy is bad, jobs are scarce, and there is more uninsured people than I want to mention. (And I am selfish enough to get down when my credit card bill comes and I forgot how much I had just charged on my last shopping spree. Time for AA.....Attitude Adjustment!) So, I listen, I smile, and then I tell them what a good job they are doing with the lousy luck they've got. I spoil the children (with hugs and tickles, coloring books, gratuitious praise for their drawings, endless games of hide and seek, asking about their favorite things to do at school, and I never, ever tell them that they can't spin in the office chairs.) and I spoil the adults (by just sitting there and listening.) I swear, I would volunteer full-time if it paid the bills!
By the way, we do medical stuff there too. :) Today we did a school physical for a new 7th grader who is going to play football....and I bet he excels, because his eyes lit UP when he told me about it. We helped a person with raging poison ivy, a mother who had an abcessed tooth get antibiotics and a referral for free dental care, and gave reassurance to a woman who found a lump in her breast and got her a referral for GYN care. Because, get this, she had been to her Dr. 3 years ago, then lost her insurance. Now she needs to go back, but because of the 3 year time frame she is considered a new patient and THEY ARE NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Soooo she has a lump in her breast and an IUD(sorry for the TMI) that needs removed and can't see anyone without self pay $ upfront. This health care reform better get figured out and fast. People are getting mentally and physically beat down by the current system.
As I step down from my soap box I will sign off. This day started off fantabulous, and now I am off to "lead" the teenagers through the book of Daniel. Wish me luck. Better yet, Pray for me.
Sarah
PS. Find somewhere to volunteer. You will get so much JOY from it!
Friday, August 21, 2009
Let's DO this!
Ever have such a great idea that you are pretty sure it is the best one you've ever had? It starts out as Yes! Alright! Let's DO this...and the next day it's WHEW HOO! I am going to DO this!... and by the third day it is, Whew, I wish this would get done already? Thus is my new found life as a blogger.
This week Tess started the second grade. Time flies...because I am pretty sure that I am no where near old enough to have a child that age! :) She loves school, and thankfully, school loves her right back. Kate starts preschool on the 4th and you can bet your bippy I will have a blog and a half about that day.
Wednesday was my first night as a Bible Study leader for 10th-12th graders at church. Mind you, I use the title of "leader" very loosely. The conversations were random, the teens were spastic, and I spent a lot of time thinking "Oh my goodness. Is it wrong to want a drink while I am in the middle of a Bible Study?" I lead groups of schizophrenics that stay on topic better than those kids! :) This is another step out of my comfort zone, and I hope that it blesses me as much as my career choice has. I am no longer a sheltered white girl from the suburbs....Thank You Jesus!
I wanted to amaze you. I wanted to inspire you. And I want to make you laugh, possibly until you snort. So, I'm sorry this blog was a bit underwhelming. I swear I have fantastic ideas for blogs when I am no where near my computer.
Happy Weekend.
Sarah
Just FYI..... Scott, the bachelor friend who I'm sure will accept full responsibility for my Facebook page fiasco, did great in the ACS auction, and has a date with a "cute little blonde"(in the words of his mama)
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
So yeah, I'm a blogger
Holy crap. I'm a blogger now! I have been reading my dear seester-in-law's blog for a while and think it is such fun to read. So today is the day I join the real world of technology and start a blog. Bear with me, I have no idea what I am doing to set this up...I really hope it is simple.
I have motivation for doing this today, of all days....it's a funny story, really. I accidently started a facebook page, and now I can't get people to stop requesting me as their friend! Seriously! I have a friend who was chosen to be auctioned at the American Cancer Society's "Bachelor Auction." He sent the link to see his profile, and just to view it I had to answer some "questions".......and bada bing bada boom...I have a freakin' facebook page! (no offense to anyone who requested me as a friend..tee hee)
So this is my first blog. Funny, I don't feel any different....yet.
Talk to you soon, Baboon!
(that's Kate's new good-bye)
Sarah
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