Francis has been taking each of the kids out for one on one time on different Thursdays this month. William was the first week and chose Chuck E Cheese. Robert the following week chose the same. Last nigh Hannah chose Chuck E Cheese until Francis pulled into the mall parking lot and all the dazzling lights of the travelling carnival lured her to want to ride rides and eat funnel cake instead. All three had a blast with their dad. I get to take them out one on one in November. What a fun way to spend my birthday month!
Last weekend we actually managed to remain in town. We were out and about, but got some chores done too. Monday was our stay home day and also the day Andrew turned 4 months! He's getting so big. He can almost roll both ways (he gets caught on his elbow). Has good head and body control, laughs hysterically at anything he finds funny, finds and grabs things quicker than I can get them away, still naps (Hallelujah, praise God!), and is a joy to all of us.
Tuesday we had CC and then Hannah had dance and Robert had his last skating lesson that evening. Robert passed Basic 1! He has learned so much in the past two months, and we look forward to continuing to practice on our own while we take a break from lessons.
Wednesday we made our final trip to the close library before it closes for 7 months of renovations. We will miss our time there, but can't wait to see the new look! Wednesday was also Andrew's 4 month check up. He is 27 inches long and 16 lbs 3 oz. His head is off the charts (as is his length). I've got another smart kiddo here! The doctor was very impressed with his laughing skills and Andrew as a trooper when it came to shots. He's getting so big!
Yesterday the big three had dentist appointments. They all passed with flying colors! We then went to Bible Study where William did a presentation in front of all the ladies of why he felt like he should pray for those who don't know Jesus. He had put much thought into it and did a great job. After Bible Study we went to the Children's Barnyard at A&M. They had some livestock and farm animals with interesting facts about each and A&M students available to answer any questions. It was a busy but fun day!
We have some friends arriving a shortly so I need to get ready. They are moving houses this week and so I'm watching the oldest three kids for the day. My kids are super excited. I'm actually pretty pumped too. 7 kids here all day should make for some lively adventures!
Till next time!
Friday, October 26, 2018
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
October 17, 2018
Thursday before last, the kids and I left for Dallas after Bible Study. It was a long trip, but Andrew handled it like a champ. I prayed most of the way because it was my first time going that far with all four kids, and when I did it this same time 3 years ago with 3 kids...it didn't go well. This trip was smooth, thank goodness! We had dinner with my parents and the Drakes to celebrate my mom's birthday a few days early. We went back to my parents' house and met Danielle and Kevin for cake and present opening. A good time was had by all, especially the cousins who all ran around and enjoyed each other immensely.
Friday the kids and I went about an hour from my in-laws' house to do tour an apple orchard with our CC class friends. As an added bonus, Kristi and her kids (who live nearby) and Christian and her kids were able to join us! To have so many of my favorite people in one places filled my hear to overflowing. We learned about the dam, honey bees, native creatures, and all about apples and how they are picked. After the field trip, Christian, Kristi and I went to a nearby Chick-fil-a with our TWELVE kids. 8 of them were 3 and under and all of them were 8 and under. The Chick-fil-a staff went over and above to take care of us. It was amazing. Friday evening the kids and I went to eat with my mother-in-law and the boys (minus Andrew) got haircuts after.
Saturday William and Robert went fishing with my dad. William caught his first fish! He was so proud. The boys also got to shoot air soft guns and play video games at my parents' house. Needless to say they can't wait to go back! Hannah, Andrew, Frankie's mom and I all went on a girl/baby shopping trip. Hannah had the best time trying on clothes and came out of it with a new winter wardrobe. I'm not sure she ever wanted her day to end. After all this excitement, we regrouped and Frankie's mom, my mom, the kids and I all went to the Wylie rodeo for dinner, games and entertainment. My mother had received VIP tickets so we were driven straight to the entrance of the VIP section where food and face painting for the kids awaited. They had a few carnival games, some bounce houses and a few other things for us to enjoy before the rodeo started. We were on the front row of the rodeo so the kids had a close up view to the bucking broncos and bulls, horse riding and clowns too. The kids unanimously liked the bull riding best. It was a fun first rodeo!
Sunday the Noble clan and Frankie's mom all went to the State Fair of Texas! We did the petting zoo, saw a magic show, watched the kids perform in the backyard circus, ate great food, watched a great light show and enjoyed fireworks. Robert and William were lions in the backyard circus while Hannah and Alexandra were butterfly ballerinas. Issac decided to jump ship as the show was starting and jumped off the stage while break dancing. Andrew was a great sport. He was delightful and flexible all day. He slept right through the fireworks which was just amazing to me. I drove home that night from the fair and arrived around 11:30 to a waiting Francis. It was good to be home after such an amazing trip!
Monday was catch up day. Tuesday was CC, Wednesday was library day and Thursday was Bible Study. These days whizzed by too fast to even know what was happening sometimes and by Friday the kids and I were off to Abilene. Francis stayed home again due to his new work, a list of projects he needed to complete at home without kids, and his general desire to avoid crowds. We took most of the day to get to Abilene, stopping at a very impressive McDonalds to for a lengthy break and lunch. The kids all did amazing, especially Andrew who was awake most of the way but happy none the less. Friday night we ate on Hardin-Simmons campus in the rain, enjoyed a pep rally and hung out with friends including the kids' friend Jonas and watched fireworks from inside HSU stadium. The homecoming events continued Saturday where the kids and I attended the kids club activities, had lunch in the school cafeteria (where the kids once again got crepes) and attended the homecoming football game (we won!). We headed back after half time and made it to College station in time for a late dinner with Francis. It was a great trip and I'm so happy to have seen so many amazing people including my mom and Danielle and Kevin (all 4 of us are HSU alumni). Also seeing my friends Rebecca and Rachel were special as well.
Sunday our church had their "Chruch had Left the Building" event, where we go out and serve in the commmunity. The boys, Francis, and I (Hannah stayed at church) went out with our Life group to Kingdom Ranch: a camp for special needs campers. The many kids in our group cleaned the cabins, the mattresses, and the bathrooms. It was hard work and the kids all did great! We also cleaned the kitchen and main building. Some people painted and many did the difficult job of shoring up and reinforcing the foundation of the main building. All left tired but glad to have helped.
Monday is got bitter cold and started raining. We had an appointment to get Andrew's first passport and renew Robert's and my passports also. We went out in the cold and got soaked in the process, but we completed our mission. Monday evening we went out to celebrate Francis's birthday. He chose Texas Roadhouse. It was a perfect fit for the weather, and everyone nearly cleared their plates.
Tuesday was Francis's actual birthday. After class, the kids and I spent the afternoon doing and decorating Francis's carrot cake (a tradition), decorating the house and placing the presents in place. I made Francis's favorite food, lasagna, for dinner. Francis loved his gifts that the kids picked and the cake was delicious. Happy Birthday, Francis! I love you more than words, and look forward to enjoying this year and many more with you.
Today we did our usual trip to the library only to discover they were having special story time scheduled for 5 minutes after we arrived! A class of high school girls was hosting the story time, and they were each dressed up to match their story book. My kids and 2 others were the only ones to come, so they all got a lot of love an attention. It was a good time!
I really left out more detail than I would like, but there we are. Life is calling me back to it. Till next time!
Friday the kids and I went about an hour from my in-laws' house to do tour an apple orchard with our CC class friends. As an added bonus, Kristi and her kids (who live nearby) and Christian and her kids were able to join us! To have so many of my favorite people in one places filled my hear to overflowing. We learned about the dam, honey bees, native creatures, and all about apples and how they are picked. After the field trip, Christian, Kristi and I went to a nearby Chick-fil-a with our TWELVE kids. 8 of them were 3 and under and all of them were 8 and under. The Chick-fil-a staff went over and above to take care of us. It was amazing. Friday evening the kids and I went to eat with my mother-in-law and the boys (minus Andrew) got haircuts after.
Saturday William and Robert went fishing with my dad. William caught his first fish! He was so proud. The boys also got to shoot air soft guns and play video games at my parents' house. Needless to say they can't wait to go back! Hannah, Andrew, Frankie's mom and I all went on a girl/baby shopping trip. Hannah had the best time trying on clothes and came out of it with a new winter wardrobe. I'm not sure she ever wanted her day to end. After all this excitement, we regrouped and Frankie's mom, my mom, the kids and I all went to the Wylie rodeo for dinner, games and entertainment. My mother had received VIP tickets so we were driven straight to the entrance of the VIP section where food and face painting for the kids awaited. They had a few carnival games, some bounce houses and a few other things for us to enjoy before the rodeo started. We were on the front row of the rodeo so the kids had a close up view to the bucking broncos and bulls, horse riding and clowns too. The kids unanimously liked the bull riding best. It was a fun first rodeo!
Sunday the Noble clan and Frankie's mom all went to the State Fair of Texas! We did the petting zoo, saw a magic show, watched the kids perform in the backyard circus, ate great food, watched a great light show and enjoyed fireworks. Robert and William were lions in the backyard circus while Hannah and Alexandra were butterfly ballerinas. Issac decided to jump ship as the show was starting and jumped off the stage while break dancing. Andrew was a great sport. He was delightful and flexible all day. He slept right through the fireworks which was just amazing to me. I drove home that night from the fair and arrived around 11:30 to a waiting Francis. It was good to be home after such an amazing trip!
Monday was catch up day. Tuesday was CC, Wednesday was library day and Thursday was Bible Study. These days whizzed by too fast to even know what was happening sometimes and by Friday the kids and I were off to Abilene. Francis stayed home again due to his new work, a list of projects he needed to complete at home without kids, and his general desire to avoid crowds. We took most of the day to get to Abilene, stopping at a very impressive McDonalds to for a lengthy break and lunch. The kids all did amazing, especially Andrew who was awake most of the way but happy none the less. Friday night we ate on Hardin-Simmons campus in the rain, enjoyed a pep rally and hung out with friends including the kids' friend Jonas and watched fireworks from inside HSU stadium. The homecoming events continued Saturday where the kids and I attended the kids club activities, had lunch in the school cafeteria (where the kids once again got crepes) and attended the homecoming football game (we won!). We headed back after half time and made it to College station in time for a late dinner with Francis. It was a great trip and I'm so happy to have seen so many amazing people including my mom and Danielle and Kevin (all 4 of us are HSU alumni). Also seeing my friends Rebecca and Rachel were special as well.
Sunday our church had their "Chruch had Left the Building" event, where we go out and serve in the commmunity. The boys, Francis, and I (Hannah stayed at church) went out with our Life group to Kingdom Ranch: a camp for special needs campers. The many kids in our group cleaned the cabins, the mattresses, and the bathrooms. It was hard work and the kids all did great! We also cleaned the kitchen and main building. Some people painted and many did the difficult job of shoring up and reinforcing the foundation of the main building. All left tired but glad to have helped.
Monday is got bitter cold and started raining. We had an appointment to get Andrew's first passport and renew Robert's and my passports also. We went out in the cold and got soaked in the process, but we completed our mission. Monday evening we went out to celebrate Francis's birthday. He chose Texas Roadhouse. It was a perfect fit for the weather, and everyone nearly cleared their plates.
Tuesday was Francis's actual birthday. After class, the kids and I spent the afternoon doing and decorating Francis's carrot cake (a tradition), decorating the house and placing the presents in place. I made Francis's favorite food, lasagna, for dinner. Francis loved his gifts that the kids picked and the cake was delicious. Happy Birthday, Francis! I love you more than words, and look forward to enjoying this year and many more with you.
Today we did our usual trip to the library only to discover they were having special story time scheduled for 5 minutes after we arrived! A class of high school girls was hosting the story time, and they were each dressed up to match their story book. My kids and 2 others were the only ones to come, so they all got a lot of love an attention. It was a good time!
I really left out more detail than I would like, but there we are. Life is calling me back to it. Till next time!
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
October 2, 2018
Last Tuesday evening Hannah has her first little performance for dance. The parents got to come in for the last 5 minutes of class and the girls did a tap dance to "Just can't wait to be King" from the Lion King. It was adorable! Wednesday we made our weekly trip to the library and then we all managed to go to Wednesday evening service to see William and Robert sing in their first choir performance. It made my heart swell to overflowing to hear them sing about Jesus. Something about kids worshiping the Almighty is just special.
Thursday we had Bible Study. I cannot say enough good things about the Bible Study both for me and for the kids. They are learning so much. William is completing his weekly work and discussing it on a level with his peers in a depth that is unbelievable. The younger kids, though they don't have homework, are being taught truths that they can carry with them forever. Thursday evening we made a family trip to the park. It's been so hot and then so rainy we haven't been able to go much, so the trip walk was so welcome and freeing.
Friday we got to play with friends (the Williams family) at Altitude Trampoline Park. We had hours of fun running and jumping and climbing. It was hard to let it end. Saturday we did chores and ran errands all day, to the exhaustion of all of us. We came back and tried to rest, but although we'd been busy, we hadn't really been active. That's when Francis and I hatched a plan. We have an app on our phones called Safe to Save where we get points for driving without using our phones (which we should be doing anyway). The kids also got prizes for summer reading which included cards to Grand Station for an hour of unlimited arcade games. So with our points we were able to bowl for an hour and a half and play a game of laser tag for free. Then we played unlimited arcade games after that. The only thing we had to pay for was dinner (Pizza) while we bowled, so the whole nigh cost us less than $20!
Sunday we had Church and AWANAS. Monday was a home day, and today we had CC community day. Life's busy, but overall very good. It's far from perfect but I'm glad it's mine.
Andrew is sleeping well (except last night) and is trying to roll from front to back. He's so close! He's also discovered how to grab things, but he is still honing his aim. He's such a sweet boy and his siblings love him. We all do!
Till next time!
Thursday we had Bible Study. I cannot say enough good things about the Bible Study both for me and for the kids. They are learning so much. William is completing his weekly work and discussing it on a level with his peers in a depth that is unbelievable. The younger kids, though they don't have homework, are being taught truths that they can carry with them forever. Thursday evening we made a family trip to the park. It's been so hot and then so rainy we haven't been able to go much, so the trip walk was so welcome and freeing.
Friday we got to play with friends (the Williams family) at Altitude Trampoline Park. We had hours of fun running and jumping and climbing. It was hard to let it end. Saturday we did chores and ran errands all day, to the exhaustion of all of us. We came back and tried to rest, but although we'd been busy, we hadn't really been active. That's when Francis and I hatched a plan. We have an app on our phones called Safe to Save where we get points for driving without using our phones (which we should be doing anyway). The kids also got prizes for summer reading which included cards to Grand Station for an hour of unlimited arcade games. So with our points we were able to bowl for an hour and a half and play a game of laser tag for free. Then we played unlimited arcade games after that. The only thing we had to pay for was dinner (Pizza) while we bowled, so the whole nigh cost us less than $20!
Sunday we had Church and AWANAS. Monday was a home day, and today we had CC community day. Life's busy, but overall very good. It's far from perfect but I'm glad it's mine.
Andrew is sleeping well (except last night) and is trying to roll from front to back. He's so close! He's also discovered how to grab things, but he is still honing his aim. He's such a sweet boy and his siblings love him. We all do!
Till next time!
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
September 25, 2018
Friday before last was Parents' night out. Francis and I went to Casa do Brazil (a Brazilian steakhouse) for dinner to finally celebrate our 10 year anniversary over a month before. The food and company were top notch!
Saturday before last was a very special day. Francis's sister had a gender reveal party for the family and it's a BOY! This new nephew of mine has been long awaited and prayed for more than he will ever know. My heart delights in the Lord's goodness every time I think about it. WE love you miracle boy and cannot wait for February!
Sundays are busy due to church and AWANAS, but I get my only 1 on 1 time with Andrew on Sunday evenings. We have taken to doing grocery pick-up while he naps and then cuddle time (as I do all my other chores) when he wakes up. He is starting to be more and more interactive which makes me take breaks more and mroe each day for peek-a-boo and to tell him how completely adorable he is. He is growing so fast, and I hope that our Sunday evenings together can be a special bonding time.
Last Monday (and this one for that matter), we stayed home all day to do all the big schoolwork and relax. I am beginning to like this because it gets us off on the right foot for the week. The kids like it because it means they can stay in their pajamas all day. We are becoming that homeschool family, I'm afraid, lol. Last Tuesday we had CC and then dance and skating lessons in the evening. All the kids are making progress in their chosen activities. It is so fun to see how they grow and learn in things they enjoy! Wednesday is our usual library day and Thursday is Bible Study. I am still liking both and love that our routine includes reading books and studying God's word. I've been trying to pre-read William's books both so I can ask him questions about what he has read and so that I can screen them. His reading level and speed are advanced for his age and so finding books that are at his level and age maturity appropriate can sometimes be a challenge. He is loving fantasy books. I gave him a 250 page novel I had just finished at 7:30 last night and he finished it before he fell asleep at 10pm (later than he should have been up, mind you). He asked for the next book in the trilogy, and he was disappointed to find I hadn't started it yet.
Friday morning Hannah and I went to one of her friend's birthday party. The moms and daughters dressed up and went to a crepe place and a candy store next door. It was so fun! The boys got to hang our with the attending girls' brothers as a couple of the dad's volunteered to watch them while we were out. A good time was had by all and William even lost a front top tooth while there. He was drinking Gatorade and it came out in his drink. Robert didn't want to leave but he was glad we also had a Life Group (sunday school) class social Friday evening. It meant he could play with his friends twice in one day! It was a good old potluck and everyone had a blast. I love our class and how we are getting to know each other better.
Saturday Andrew turned 3 months. How did that happen?! He's rolling from front to back, has good control of his head most of the time, "talks" constantly, sleeps at night for a 5-7 hour stretch (which I didn't know was possible, lol), and is the joy of his brothers' and sister. He's expressive and smiles and laughts when he thinks things are funny. He is relaxed most of the time until he isn't...then the banshee scream will still make an appearance. I can't imagine life without him and am thankful for him. I love you Andrew!
Today it was our week off from CC and we made two trips to the Children's Museum. One to play and one to retrieve the special baby doll Hannah left behind. It was fine, but I'm glad to be home.
Till next time!
Saturday before last was a very special day. Francis's sister had a gender reveal party for the family and it's a BOY! This new nephew of mine has been long awaited and prayed for more than he will ever know. My heart delights in the Lord's goodness every time I think about it. WE love you miracle boy and cannot wait for February!
Sundays are busy due to church and AWANAS, but I get my only 1 on 1 time with Andrew on Sunday evenings. We have taken to doing grocery pick-up while he naps and then cuddle time (as I do all my other chores) when he wakes up. He is starting to be more and more interactive which makes me take breaks more and mroe each day for peek-a-boo and to tell him how completely adorable he is. He is growing so fast, and I hope that our Sunday evenings together can be a special bonding time.
Last Monday (and this one for that matter), we stayed home all day to do all the big schoolwork and relax. I am beginning to like this because it gets us off on the right foot for the week. The kids like it because it means they can stay in their pajamas all day. We are becoming that homeschool family, I'm afraid, lol. Last Tuesday we had CC and then dance and skating lessons in the evening. All the kids are making progress in their chosen activities. It is so fun to see how they grow and learn in things they enjoy! Wednesday is our usual library day and Thursday is Bible Study. I am still liking both and love that our routine includes reading books and studying God's word. I've been trying to pre-read William's books both so I can ask him questions about what he has read and so that I can screen them. His reading level and speed are advanced for his age and so finding books that are at his level and age maturity appropriate can sometimes be a challenge. He is loving fantasy books. I gave him a 250 page novel I had just finished at 7:30 last night and he finished it before he fell asleep at 10pm (later than he should have been up, mind you). He asked for the next book in the trilogy, and he was disappointed to find I hadn't started it yet.
Friday morning Hannah and I went to one of her friend's birthday party. The moms and daughters dressed up and went to a crepe place and a candy store next door. It was so fun! The boys got to hang our with the attending girls' brothers as a couple of the dad's volunteered to watch them while we were out. A good time was had by all and William even lost a front top tooth while there. He was drinking Gatorade and it came out in his drink. Robert didn't want to leave but he was glad we also had a Life Group (sunday school) class social Friday evening. It meant he could play with his friends twice in one day! It was a good old potluck and everyone had a blast. I love our class and how we are getting to know each other better.
Saturday Andrew turned 3 months. How did that happen?! He's rolling from front to back, has good control of his head most of the time, "talks" constantly, sleeps at night for a 5-7 hour stretch (which I didn't know was possible, lol), and is the joy of his brothers' and sister. He's expressive and smiles and laughts when he thinks things are funny. He is relaxed most of the time until he isn't...then the banshee scream will still make an appearance. I can't imagine life without him and am thankful for him. I love you Andrew!
Today it was our week off from CC and we made two trips to the Children's Museum. One to play and one to retrieve the special baby doll Hannah left behind. It was fine, but I'm glad to be home.
Till next time!
Friday, September 14, 2018
September 14, 2018
It's been a crazy week. AWANAS started up on Sunday evening. It's Hannah's first year to be in Cubbies and her teacher is Francis. She is super excited. It's Robert's first year in Sparks and William's third. It's going to be an amazing year of learning scripture!
Robert's 5th birthday was on Monday. He opened his presents, had a breakfast of pancakes, a lunch of McDonald's, an afternoon of building the Mario K'nex he recieved and dinner at Olive Garden. The staff at Olive Garden were amazing, recognizing him as a birthday boy the entire time we were there. It was so special! We had a very cute Mario cake that evening, Overall a great day! Robert is growing so fast. He is excelling in kindergarten, reading short books almost on his own. He knows his CC memory work and loves singing in choir. He is so kind and loving and brings joy to those around him. I can't imaging life without him. I love you, Robert!
We had CC on Tuesday and dance/skating lessons on Tuesday night. We did yearly pictures at Robin's house on Wednesday. It was bit of a struggle, but I think we got a couple of good shots of each kid. Robin is a seriously good sport! Thursday we started a new Bible study class. It has groups for birth through adult, so all the kids could go. The three little ones have just a weekly lesson, but William has a legitimate book and work each day to study and prepare for the next week. What's even cooler is that I have the adult version of the Bible Study book for my class. This means we can discuss our lessons even though they are for different levels! I am loving it and it's only been a day.
Today we have a big day. Francis had his 10 year college reunion today and tomorrow. We are joining him for a tour of the wind tunnels out at the airport. Then we are going to Bricks 4 Kidz to do Robert's birthday activity (it wasn't open on Monday). Finally we will have lunch and the three big kids with go to Junction (Parent's night out) so that Francis and I can celebrate our 10 year anniversary with a dinner for two (well, plus Andrew). It's going to be a great day!
Till next time!
Robert's 5th birthday was on Monday. He opened his presents, had a breakfast of pancakes, a lunch of McDonald's, an afternoon of building the Mario K'nex he recieved and dinner at Olive Garden. The staff at Olive Garden were amazing, recognizing him as a birthday boy the entire time we were there. It was so special! We had a very cute Mario cake that evening, Overall a great day! Robert is growing so fast. He is excelling in kindergarten, reading short books almost on his own. He knows his CC memory work and loves singing in choir. He is so kind and loving and brings joy to those around him. I can't imaging life without him. I love you, Robert!
We had CC on Tuesday and dance/skating lessons on Tuesday night. We did yearly pictures at Robin's house on Wednesday. It was bit of a struggle, but I think we got a couple of good shots of each kid. Robin is a seriously good sport! Thursday we started a new Bible study class. It has groups for birth through adult, so all the kids could go. The three little ones have just a weekly lesson, but William has a legitimate book and work each day to study and prepare for the next week. What's even cooler is that I have the adult version of the Bible Study book for my class. This means we can discuss our lessons even though they are for different levels! I am loving it and it's only been a day.
Today we have a big day. Francis had his 10 year college reunion today and tomorrow. We are joining him for a tour of the wind tunnels out at the airport. Then we are going to Bricks 4 Kidz to do Robert's birthday activity (it wasn't open on Monday). Finally we will have lunch and the three big kids with go to Junction (Parent's night out) so that Francis and I can celebrate our 10 year anniversary with a dinner for two (well, plus Andrew). It's going to be a great day!
Till next time!
Friday, September 7, 2018
September 7, 2018
With the exception of this weekend, we've mostly been home. Saturday the big boys and Francis went to church all day for a work day. Hannah, Andrew and I went to Home Depot to do their craft, went clothes shopping, went to Barnes and Noble to pickup Hannah's new "school books" she selected, had lunch at Chick-fil-a where we ran into friends, and went by Walmart to get some items we needed. With "just" two kids, it was easy, and Andrew slept or ate the whole time. Hannah loves shopping and was a trooper. I would NEVER have done this when I had just William and Robert many moons ago, so I chalk that up to personal growth! That evening we had Family Movie night at home. We watched Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The kids loved it, but were very confused by the intermission in the middle. Gotta love old movies! Sunday we had church and then went out to Cici's Pizza for dinner (kids' choice). The Tvs were playing Finding Nemo and Paw Patrol. The kids were in Heaven!
Sunday late Hannah started not feeling well and by Tuesday she was worse. She stayed home from CC while I took the boys all to class. Turns out she had an ear infection and strep. She's been on medicine and is improving. I hate to see my kids sick! William and Robert had their check ups yesterday. Both have grown inches and pounds. Both passed their hearing and vision tests too! Thankfully no shots so everyone left happy!
Little Andrew is growing by leaps and bounds. He's got decent control of his head now, and loves looking around at whatever his siblings are doing. He smiles and laughs when the mood strikes him, but has a very expressive face of every sort of emotion under the sun. I've taken to calling him "little person" as a term of endearment because that's exactly what he looks like: a miniature adult with all the feeling and expression therein. My mother has said of my father that he was born old (ie. mature) and I can't help but think this might be what he was like as an infant. No complaints if so, he's an amazing father and human being! Andrew also managed to do something none of my kids have ecer done as babies and certainly not at 2 months: he slept 8 hours straight at night! He fell asleep around 8 last night and didn't wake until a little after 4!! If he can repeat that and the other kids will stop waking up too, I might get my first decent sleep in 8 years! I won't get my hopes up though. I've probably jinxed it by even voicing the thought...still....
That's all for now!
Friday, August 31, 2018
August 31, 2018
Last weekend was busy. My parents and in-laws came in Saturday afternoon, and the kids got to go swimming at one of the hotels. Before that I introduced them to the Wizard of Oz. They watched with great interest and now wish to see many more old movies. I taped the kids reaction when the movie goes into color so I can always remember their smiles and amazement. After swimming, all 10 of us (6 plus grandparents) ate at Saltgrass for dinner. I am loving all the time we have had to spend with our parents lately. I wish it was this frequent all the time. After dinner my parents and Frankie's mom came back to the house to help put the kids to bed and watch the Christian comedy "Mom's Night Out". If you haven't seen it and like good clean humor, this movie is for you!
Sunday was Parent Dedication. Andrew looked super handsome and all the kids behaved well on stage. We dedicated ourselves to raise Andrew under God's direction and love. May he come to know Jesus as he grows in wisdom and stature. It was a beautiful time and having the grandparents there made it that much sweeter. We all had lunch at Red Lobster before everyone headed home. Andrew was a dream through it all, not crying and staying awake until we reached the car for lunch. He's a sweet baby all the time, to be honest. He's starting to smile more and more often which melts my heart even more than I thought was possible.
Monday we had a field trip to tour the back of Blue Baker. We've done this trip before but it is always fun and informative. Because most of the kids were school aged, the tour guide went much more in depth with how bread is made. the kids all listened closely and asked great questions, which impressed the lady. At the end the kids got to make their own loaf of bread (add mix-ins to premade dough) which we all enjoyed that evening.
Tuesday was our first day of Classical Conversations for the year. We had no nursery workers, so Hannah and Andrew joined me in Robert's class, but otherwise everything went off without a hitch. Both the littles were excellent in class; Andrew slept and Hannah participated or played quietly in the back. William was in class alone for the first time ever, but his tutor assured me he did amazing. I look forward to being in his class next week! Tuesday evening Hannah had her second dance class and is still in love with it. The teachers work well with her and she has come out with a sucker for good work both times.
Wednesday we went to the library and checked out way too many books. We are studying space right now among other things, and so we have a bunch from the library now. I also checked out Ella Enchanted, one of my favorite books at one time, in order to read it aloud to the kids. It's only been two days, but I've read over 100 pages out loud. The kids are hooked and nearly pitch a fit every time I stop. It's been fun to be the keeper of the story. I hope to be able to continue.
Thursday I took the kids to the children's museum. That evening I was able to attend the first Aggie football game of the season. I've only been to 1 other A&M game 12 years ago (after all I'm not an Aggie), so this was quite an experience. I can't explain the "spirit of Aggieland" feeling except to say Aggies are loyal and you can feel it in the air. It was such a fun time with these ladies, and I hope we are all able to hang out again. soon!
Today we had our last playgroup with Robin and Emerson. We went to Tarrow Splash-pad. I will miss our Fridays together. I am taking up the task of picking the spots, but it won't be the same!
Francis started his new job with Army Research Lab on Monday (yay for an official job!!). We are still learning exactly what will be expected, but for now we will rejoice in having a job. I"m so proud of him and how far we have come. He's a keeper!
The kids have all been growing faster than I can record. William is loving his new CC class, has 2 loose teeth (one that can turn sideways, ew!), and has a vocabulary that astonishes me and others. Robert has passed 42 inches, is reading pretty well now (spelling any word he can ), and doing simple addition in his head quickly. Hannah is such a sweetie: loving dance, clothes, babies and her brothers. She is starting to correctly sing her ABCs and count to 15 (more or less). Andrew is smiling so much these days, laughing, cooing and talking when engaged, and just yesterday realized he can hit things consistently with his hand when he tries. He's close to rolling from back to front and sleeps better than any of his siblings at this age (which honestly isn't saying much). Overall I'm tired and happy. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Till next time!
Sunday was Parent Dedication. Andrew looked super handsome and all the kids behaved well on stage. We dedicated ourselves to raise Andrew under God's direction and love. May he come to know Jesus as he grows in wisdom and stature. It was a beautiful time and having the grandparents there made it that much sweeter. We all had lunch at Red Lobster before everyone headed home. Andrew was a dream through it all, not crying and staying awake until we reached the car for lunch. He's a sweet baby all the time, to be honest. He's starting to smile more and more often which melts my heart even more than I thought was possible.
Monday we had a field trip to tour the back of Blue Baker. We've done this trip before but it is always fun and informative. Because most of the kids were school aged, the tour guide went much more in depth with how bread is made. the kids all listened closely and asked great questions, which impressed the lady. At the end the kids got to make their own loaf of bread (add mix-ins to premade dough) which we all enjoyed that evening.
Tuesday was our first day of Classical Conversations for the year. We had no nursery workers, so Hannah and Andrew joined me in Robert's class, but otherwise everything went off without a hitch. Both the littles were excellent in class; Andrew slept and Hannah participated or played quietly in the back. William was in class alone for the first time ever, but his tutor assured me he did amazing. I look forward to being in his class next week! Tuesday evening Hannah had her second dance class and is still in love with it. The teachers work well with her and she has come out with a sucker for good work both times.
Wednesday we went to the library and checked out way too many books. We are studying space right now among other things, and so we have a bunch from the library now. I also checked out Ella Enchanted, one of my favorite books at one time, in order to read it aloud to the kids. It's only been two days, but I've read over 100 pages out loud. The kids are hooked and nearly pitch a fit every time I stop. It's been fun to be the keeper of the story. I hope to be able to continue.
Thursday I took the kids to the children's museum. That evening I was able to attend the first Aggie football game of the season. I've only been to 1 other A&M game 12 years ago (after all I'm not an Aggie), so this was quite an experience. I can't explain the "spirit of Aggieland" feeling except to say Aggies are loyal and you can feel it in the air. It was such a fun time with these ladies, and I hope we are all able to hang out again. soon!
Today we had our last playgroup with Robin and Emerson. We went to Tarrow Splash-pad. I will miss our Fridays together. I am taking up the task of picking the spots, but it won't be the same!
Francis started his new job with Army Research Lab on Monday (yay for an official job!!). We are still learning exactly what will be expected, but for now we will rejoice in having a job. I"m so proud of him and how far we have come. He's a keeper!
The kids have all been growing faster than I can record. William is loving his new CC class, has 2 loose teeth (one that can turn sideways, ew!), and has a vocabulary that astonishes me and others. Robert has passed 42 inches, is reading pretty well now (spelling any word he can ), and doing simple addition in his head quickly. Hannah is such a sweetie: loving dance, clothes, babies and her brothers. She is starting to correctly sing her ABCs and count to 15 (more or less). Andrew is smiling so much these days, laughing, cooing and talking when engaged, and just yesterday realized he can hit things consistently with his hand when he tries. He's close to rolling from back to front and sleeps better than any of his siblings at this age (which honestly isn't saying much). Overall I'm tired and happy. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Till next time!
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