We've been very busy these past few weeks. I'll try an hit some highlights.
I've been working in the mornings and some evenings teaching English online. I'm still liking it and I have some regulars now that I really enjoy.
Nana and Grandad came in for Robert's birthday at the beginning of the month and we spent a glorious afternoon at Chuck E Cheese with their all you can play all day special. The kids came home with some amazing prizes and the adults had a ton of fun too. The kids especially like riding in the back of Nana and Grandad's convertible. I mean, who wouldn't?
Robert's actual birthday was spent going to CC where he got to bring treats (cookies) for all his friends. He got to open his present from us (the Buzz Lightyear playset he's been wanting for months) and we had dinner at Burger Kind (his choice!). After dinner Robert decided he wanted to have his date with me while the rest of the kids and Francis went to Hannah's skating lesson. I was so honored! We went shopping and had rolled ice cream (William talked about how amazing it was!). He chose black forest ice cream. The workers found out it was his birthday and put a sparkler candle in his cup and sang to him. The whole place joined it. It was very special. There were a ton of college students there who all wished him a happy birthday. Robert loved the attention. Robert has hit the 33 inch mark and is still lean. He's smart, sweet and we love having him in our family. Happy Birthday Robert!
Later that week was the first Bible Study and first JAM (parents night out). For the latter, Francis took me to Christopher's steak house and we finally celebrated our anniversary. The food was amazing and the company unparalleled. We rarely get to celebrate our anniversary in August, but I'm happy we still try to do it. I love you, Francis!
I took Hannah on her Mommy date the next day. She wanted to do the same thing as brothers, but for shopping we went to Barnes and Noble. She looked at nearly every item in the toy and children's sections with great care. This girl knows what she likes. She chose cherry rolled ice cream and loved it as much as her brothers loved their flavors. I love one on one time with my kids! That night we had our Life Group social at a friend's house. The kids got to run out in the area behind the house and the adults got to eat, watch and talk. It was a great evening.
This past weekend, my parents came up to see the boys' first football game. The kids played hardand had fun. Afterward my mom and Francis went to the football game while the kids, my dad and I went home and watched the game. My dad is amazing. He managed to play chess with William, hold Andrew, read to Hannah and have a conversation with Robert simultaneously. Everyone loves Papa. Mom and Francis had a good time too talking to all the big wigs and eating yummy food. I hope to go with Mom one of these days!
Robert and William led worship in church on Sunday as part of the children's choir. Robert even recited John 1:1-2 before the whole congregation. It brough tears to my eyes to hear them sing. They will be performing in December a full concert and William and Robert both have speaking parts. I can hardly wait!
We've gone out to Lick Creek park 3 times now for their free homeschool science class. The kids have learned about the scientific method, insects and birds, and volcanoes. It's been pretty fun and it's free! Afterward we've been going on short walks around the park. We even moved library day for it, so you know it's a big deal.
We got to check out the library renovations on Tuesday. They reopened on Monday. I love the renovations. They put a glass wall around the children's area which helps with both sound and containment. They also added a play area and activity tables, and the kids did not want to leave when it was time. We'll be back soon!
Andrew had his 15 month check up today. He is still super long (33 1/3 inches) and average weight (24lbs). He's getting so big. He's trying to keep up with his siblings and abandoned his high chair for a regular (booster) seat at the table. Don't tell him, but he has slept through the night 7 out of the last 10 nights. I don't even know how to process that. In fact all of the kids slept through the night last night. I got up this morning and made sure they were all alive before I started work. I'm hoping this is the beginning of a new era. Sleep is needed in this house. Hopefully it sticks around!!
Till next time!
Thursday, September 26, 2019
Thursday, September 5, 2019
September 5, 2019
September is in full swing at the Phillips house. We've had two weeks of CC now and start Bible Study next week. Hannah started skating lessons and the boys started foot ball practice. Hannah was hesitant at first but seems to be liking it so far. The boys are on the dame team and enjoy practicing in the evenings with Francis who is their assistance coach. We have been getting a lot of friend time too which has been good for kids and momma.
Weekend before last we had the big boys family party. The whole Noble and Phillips clan got together to celebrate with Ninjago, Pokemon, Star Wars and PJ masks (some of the boys favorite things). Thankfully we already had most of these decorations! I tried my hand at face painting and we played pin the tail on the Charizard. It was good to see everyone and get loved on by those we hold dear. Shout out to our family for driving to see us!
Back to our first day of CC. It was Hannah's first day in class. Her class is pretty even boys and girls (unlike William and Robert, who both have boy heavy classes). She was a little shy at first but by the end of the morning, she wanted to take a turn just like everyone else. She did her first presentation and shyly told everyone her name, age and that she loved ponies. Some kids won't speak at all the first time, so I was very happy she was brave enough to speak. The kids and I all had lunch together and then had recess. William is now in the "older" group when the kids split for recess (they trade playing outside and at the indoor playground), so he doesn't get to play with his siblings. It was an adjustment, but it wasn't long before all the kids had found a friend. We love our CC group. It's going to be a great year!
In my new job (with VIPKid) I have now taught 16 classes, and 10 of them were in the past 5 days. My morning schedule is becoming completely booked most days. I thought taking a week off last week (Francis was in DC and had the laptop) was going to ruin my momentum, but God is good and I'm making progress in getting students to both book and rebook me. So far my favorites are the littlest ones (4 years old), but I also like how older students are more able to hold a conversation in English. I could write a novel here about all my experiences so far, but overall I'm enjoying both the flexibility and the actual job. I have also found that I can find almost any prop to teach among my kids' gigantic store of toys. So rather than call them hoarders, I can now call them my resource center managers, haha. It's all about perspective.
This morning we went to the Lick creek nature center for a homeschool science lesson. It was fun and afterward Hannah got to play with her friend while the boys caught and identified bugs and spiders. A good time was had by all!
That's it for now. Till next time!
Weekend before last we had the big boys family party. The whole Noble and Phillips clan got together to celebrate with Ninjago, Pokemon, Star Wars and PJ masks (some of the boys favorite things). Thankfully we already had most of these decorations! I tried my hand at face painting and we played pin the tail on the Charizard. It was good to see everyone and get loved on by those we hold dear. Shout out to our family for driving to see us!
Back to our first day of CC. It was Hannah's first day in class. Her class is pretty even boys and girls (unlike William and Robert, who both have boy heavy classes). She was a little shy at first but by the end of the morning, she wanted to take a turn just like everyone else. She did her first presentation and shyly told everyone her name, age and that she loved ponies. Some kids won't speak at all the first time, so I was very happy she was brave enough to speak. The kids and I all had lunch together and then had recess. William is now in the "older" group when the kids split for recess (they trade playing outside and at the indoor playground), so he doesn't get to play with his siblings. It was an adjustment, but it wasn't long before all the kids had found a friend. We love our CC group. It's going to be a great year!
In my new job (with VIPKid) I have now taught 16 classes, and 10 of them were in the past 5 days. My morning schedule is becoming completely booked most days. I thought taking a week off last week (Francis was in DC and had the laptop) was going to ruin my momentum, but God is good and I'm making progress in getting students to both book and rebook me. So far my favorites are the littlest ones (4 years old), but I also like how older students are more able to hold a conversation in English. I could write a novel here about all my experiences so far, but overall I'm enjoying both the flexibility and the actual job. I have also found that I can find almost any prop to teach among my kids' gigantic store of toys. So rather than call them hoarders, I can now call them my resource center managers, haha. It's all about perspective.
This morning we went to the Lick creek nature center for a homeschool science lesson. It was fun and afterward Hannah got to play with her friend while the boys caught and identified bugs and spiders. A good time was had by all!
That's it for now. Till next time!
Friday, August 23, 2019
August 23, 2019
The last couple of weeks have been a blur. I applied for and started a new part time job with VIPKid. I am teaching children in China English online. I set my hours (though due to the time difference that is only morning or evening). I'm still getting my feet wet and there is a learning curve with online teaching, but I think I'm getting better. I never thought I would be doing this, but here we are! I think it will be a good experience and the children are seriously adorable!
The boys had their friend birthday party last Tuesday at Grand Station. One nice thing about summer birthdays as well as most of your friends homeschooling is that you can have a party during the week and take advantage of weekly specials. The kids got to bowl and play laser tag and had the best time. They all want to play laser tag again soon, so hopefully we can set up a daddy kid night with our life group soon.
The end of last week, everyone but Robert was sick. Between cleaning up the ick, taking care of tired kids and feeling bleh myself, I was worn out. A friend, not knowing the extent of our exhaustion, found out we were sick and secretly dropped stuff on our porch during her lunch hour. I got a text from her to look outside and there in my door step was soup, a bag of Sonic ice (the good stuff, yeah!), Gatorade, sprite, crackers, activity books for the kids and Kleenexes. I started bawling. It was up there with one of the sweetest things that had been done for me. She's the friend I want to be. It inspires me to be better.
We had CC orientation on Tuesday. The kids all met their tutors and had fun with their new classes. I think it's going to be a great year!!!
I don't have much more to say. I've been spending every "spare" moment working to get a handle on the new job, and we've been going through our routine when we haven't been sick. Playgroup eneded for the summer as we tried out the new Fun for all park with friends and now that public school has started, things have settled down a bit. Not for long though! Ice skating (Hannah), football (William and Robert), AWANA, Bible study and CC start up over the next couple of weeks. It's going to be great!
The boys had their friend birthday party last Tuesday at Grand Station. One nice thing about summer birthdays as well as most of your friends homeschooling is that you can have a party during the week and take advantage of weekly specials. The kids got to bowl and play laser tag and had the best time. They all want to play laser tag again soon, so hopefully we can set up a daddy kid night with our life group soon.
The end of last week, everyone but Robert was sick. Between cleaning up the ick, taking care of tired kids and feeling bleh myself, I was worn out. A friend, not knowing the extent of our exhaustion, found out we were sick and secretly dropped stuff on our porch during her lunch hour. I got a text from her to look outside and there in my door step was soup, a bag of Sonic ice (the good stuff, yeah!), Gatorade, sprite, crackers, activity books for the kids and Kleenexes. I started bawling. It was up there with one of the sweetest things that had been done for me. She's the friend I want to be. It inspires me to be better.
We had CC orientation on Tuesday. The kids all met their tutors and had fun with their new classes. I think it's going to be a great year!!!
I don't have much more to say. I've been spending every "spare" moment working to get a handle on the new job, and we've been going through our routine when we haven't been sick. Playgroup eneded for the summer as we tried out the new Fun for all park with friends and now that public school has started, things have settled down a bit. Not for long though! Ice skating (Hannah), football (William and Robert), AWANA, Bible study and CC start up over the next couple of weeks. It's going to be great!
Thursday, August 8, 2019
August 8, 2019
Life has been slightly less hectic the past couple weeks. We went to a physics show at the library which the kids LOVED. It included all sorts of experiments and at the end they got to use a leaf blower to pretend to be astronauts blasting off and blow bubbles into a tank of dry ice. We have still been doing playgroups on Friday. The weather should hit 100 degrees at our house for the first time all summer so the heat in the mornings haven't been too unbearable. Last Friday after playgroup, we went to to opening of the new Fun For All playground at Central Park. I even spotted one of my former students. He's a teenager now and that is just crazy to think about. Anyway the new playground is very cool and even has a splash pad. there were hot dogs, cookies, cake, snowcones and a ribbon cutting ceremony. It was hot but good. We will be going back tomorrow for the last playgroup of the summer and will enjoy it when it is less crowded (hopefully).That same day we also went to the last family movie night of the summer at church. We had pizza and watched How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World. It was an interesting movie and concluded the series nicely. Other than that we've had promotion Sunday at church which means William is officially in third and Robert is officially in first grade. Hannah is starting her last year on the preschool side. How did that happen?! We had our annual churchwide pool party at Adamson Lagoon to celebrate. The kids look forward to this day all year and it did not disappoint. We are so thankful for a church that invests in families and loves Jesus too.
Andrew is walking everywhere. No more crawling, but plenty of CLIMBING. If there's a way to get on top of something, he will find it. If you see his busted up chin, know it's from multiple tumbles and will probably be a constant condition for the time being. That's not even counting all the times I catch and save him. He's turning into quite the monkey. When he isn't climbing he's getting a hold of something he probably shouldn't have. He likes his toys just fine, but forbidden things are so much more fun (or so he thinks). He's a ball of energy and a joy to be around. He has quite a few words, but distinguishing between them is a little hard sometimes. Mommy is still his favorite person. I only edge out Francis by a small margin now, and seeing him run for the door when Francis gets home gets me every time. Andrew loves taking things apart and trying to put them back together. I think he will love puzzles pretty soon. He's growing up so fast, and it is so fun to watch!
Hannah is four now as she tells everyone she meets. She loves ponies, princesses, pink, purple, blue, Pinkalicious and Fancy Nancy, skirts, dresses, unicorns, and singing. There's so much more to this smart, spunky, beautiful little girl. She's a negotiator and won't settle for less. She is kind and helpful and generally a good cleaner of her room. She has so many friends and I love to see her play and use her imagination. She can write her name, is learning to write the other letters, and is beginning to connect letters to their sounds in a meaningful way. She loves doing puzzles and solving problems. She loves being a big girl and doing her "schoolwork" while her brothers do theirs. Her vocabulary is impressive and her memory and comprehension are exceptional. She's go so many skills at her fingertips. I can't wait to see how they develop. She is starting her first year in CC in a couple weeks, and I know she'll shine!
Robert is still my best cuddler. He always knows when I need a hug and kiss. He feels strongly and deeply and says things that reflect he is in some ways mature far beyond his years. His imagination is also very present and active. Robert can tell an entertaining story any time of the day. He is reading very well and is about to make the real leap to reading novels independently. Right now he mainly sticks to graphic novels or shorter books because it is more fun and comfortable to him. He is doing well in math also. While he doesn't always want to sit down and do school, when he focuses, he hits it our of the park! His cursive is coming along as well. He can sign his name in cursive, so I call that a win (hello life skill!). He's a good organizer who also has the patience to sit and do puzzles even when I don't. He is an amazing listener. You can tell him almost anything and he will retain it. I can't believe he'll be 6 next month. I can't wait to see what the coming year holds!
William will be 8 in a few days. He is such a critical thinker and wants to know the how and why of everything. When he thinks I'm wrong, he challenges me (though he's gotten better about doing it respectfully). I'm coming to enjoy our more grown-up type chats. It's wonderful that he lets me into his world and how he thinks. He's not too cool for me yet, and I'll take it as long as it lasts. He will still hold my hand and hug me without a second thought. He still devours books. He read at least 4 books and a novel and a half yesterday after we got home from the library. He's starting to clue in when to listen before you speak, but is always eager to share what he knows. He's a great big brother most of the time and a ring leader to most of the mischief. He is also not one who loves to sit down for school, but does it with excellence when asked. William is good at weighing the cost to benefit before doing an action which has been interesting to watch recently. He's also good at trying to negotiate rewards for completed tasks (and sometimes succeeds). He's gotten in 4 of his adult teeth now and looks so much older. He is just brilliant. Happy almost birthday, William.
Lest you think our family is perfect, I feel like I need to point out that it isn't. Some days are rough, others are impossible, and some are amazing. I generally choose to remember the amazing and let the rest fall away as a place for room to grow. I am not perfect and I am humbly reminded of that daily (sometimes hourly). It's easy to get caught up in what is lacking, so I refuse to do that here. If you are reading this far, know that the grass is not always greener over here, but I do have a loving Savior who gives me grace and hope each day. I'd love to talk with you about that.
Till next time!
Andrew is walking everywhere. No more crawling, but plenty of CLIMBING. If there's a way to get on top of something, he will find it. If you see his busted up chin, know it's from multiple tumbles and will probably be a constant condition for the time being. That's not even counting all the times I catch and save him. He's turning into quite the monkey. When he isn't climbing he's getting a hold of something he probably shouldn't have. He likes his toys just fine, but forbidden things are so much more fun (or so he thinks). He's a ball of energy and a joy to be around. He has quite a few words, but distinguishing between them is a little hard sometimes. Mommy is still his favorite person. I only edge out Francis by a small margin now, and seeing him run for the door when Francis gets home gets me every time. Andrew loves taking things apart and trying to put them back together. I think he will love puzzles pretty soon. He's growing up so fast, and it is so fun to watch!
Hannah is four now as she tells everyone she meets. She loves ponies, princesses, pink, purple, blue, Pinkalicious and Fancy Nancy, skirts, dresses, unicorns, and singing. There's so much more to this smart, spunky, beautiful little girl. She's a negotiator and won't settle for less. She is kind and helpful and generally a good cleaner of her room. She has so many friends and I love to see her play and use her imagination. She can write her name, is learning to write the other letters, and is beginning to connect letters to their sounds in a meaningful way. She loves doing puzzles and solving problems. She loves being a big girl and doing her "schoolwork" while her brothers do theirs. Her vocabulary is impressive and her memory and comprehension are exceptional. She's go so many skills at her fingertips. I can't wait to see how they develop. She is starting her first year in CC in a couple weeks, and I know she'll shine!
Robert is still my best cuddler. He always knows when I need a hug and kiss. He feels strongly and deeply and says things that reflect he is in some ways mature far beyond his years. His imagination is also very present and active. Robert can tell an entertaining story any time of the day. He is reading very well and is about to make the real leap to reading novels independently. Right now he mainly sticks to graphic novels or shorter books because it is more fun and comfortable to him. He is doing well in math also. While he doesn't always want to sit down and do school, when he focuses, he hits it our of the park! His cursive is coming along as well. He can sign his name in cursive, so I call that a win (hello life skill!). He's a good organizer who also has the patience to sit and do puzzles even when I don't. He is an amazing listener. You can tell him almost anything and he will retain it. I can't believe he'll be 6 next month. I can't wait to see what the coming year holds!
William will be 8 in a few days. He is such a critical thinker and wants to know the how and why of everything. When he thinks I'm wrong, he challenges me (though he's gotten better about doing it respectfully). I'm coming to enjoy our more grown-up type chats. It's wonderful that he lets me into his world and how he thinks. He's not too cool for me yet, and I'll take it as long as it lasts. He will still hold my hand and hug me without a second thought. He still devours books. He read at least 4 books and a novel and a half yesterday after we got home from the library. He's starting to clue in when to listen before you speak, but is always eager to share what he knows. He's a great big brother most of the time and a ring leader to most of the mischief. He is also not one who loves to sit down for school, but does it with excellence when asked. William is good at weighing the cost to benefit before doing an action which has been interesting to watch recently. He's also good at trying to negotiate rewards for completed tasks (and sometimes succeeds). He's gotten in 4 of his adult teeth now and looks so much older. He is just brilliant. Happy almost birthday, William.
Lest you think our family is perfect, I feel like I need to point out that it isn't. Some days are rough, others are impossible, and some are amazing. I generally choose to remember the amazing and let the rest fall away as a place for room to grow. I am not perfect and I am humbly reminded of that daily (sometimes hourly). It's easy to get caught up in what is lacking, so I refuse to do that here. If you are reading this far, know that the grass is not always greener over here, but I do have a loving Savior who gives me grace and hope each day. I'd love to talk with you about that.
Till next time!
Friday, July 26, 2019
July 26, 2018
Lots going on around here. Last week was busy! Hannah had ballet camp Monday through Thursday with many of her friends. They dance, made crafts, played games, had a tea party and fun snacks and did so much more! It was seriously adorable to pick her up after an afternoon of fun and hear about her day. She can't wait for next year. We also had Hannah's friend Hadassah over on Monday, Bible Study Tuesday morning, time with friends at the library with a story teller, and then the second Summer Fun Days on Thursday. Whew! Friday we went to playgroup in the morning and family movie night at church that evening. Never a dull moment around here, but I wouldn't have it any other way!
Saturday we went to Houston to celebrate my mother-in-law's birthday at Cyndy's house. We went swimming, did water balloons, had cousin time and had dinner. Cyndy did a wonderful job decorating! The kids were sad to go when the time came, which is always the sign of a great time. We gave my MIL updated canvases of each of the kids, so her staircase is getting a picture upgrade!
This week we had our last Bible Study of the summer on Tuesday. I studied 1 Corinthians this summer; it was both good and challenging.
Wednesday was Hannah's 4th birthday! I can't even believe that is true. We started off the morning having a party with friends at our church playground complete with cookie cake. When Francis got home, she got to open a present from us and little things from her brothers. We had dinner at Hannah's choice: Golden Corral. Everyone ate their fill and the staff even sang to Hannah. We came home and let Hannah blow out some candles (we were already full of dessert), before letting her play with her new things. She said it was the best birthday and I'm so glad. Hannah is smart, spunky, sweet and sassy. She can write her name, count, communicate well, and is a delight to our family. I look forward to what the next year holds! Happy birthday Hannah!
Thursday was the last Summer Fun Day and today we have already had playgroup. I've got a million things left on my to-do list today in addition to playing with the kids and doing school, so I'm going to have to leave this post short.
Till next time!
Saturday we went to Houston to celebrate my mother-in-law's birthday at Cyndy's house. We went swimming, did water balloons, had cousin time and had dinner. Cyndy did a wonderful job decorating! The kids were sad to go when the time came, which is always the sign of a great time. We gave my MIL updated canvases of each of the kids, so her staircase is getting a picture upgrade!
This week we had our last Bible Study of the summer on Tuesday. I studied 1 Corinthians this summer; it was both good and challenging.
Wednesday was Hannah's 4th birthday! I can't even believe that is true. We started off the morning having a party with friends at our church playground complete with cookie cake. When Francis got home, she got to open a present from us and little things from her brothers. We had dinner at Hannah's choice: Golden Corral. Everyone ate their fill and the staff even sang to Hannah. We came home and let Hannah blow out some candles (we were already full of dessert), before letting her play with her new things. She said it was the best birthday and I'm so glad. Hannah is smart, spunky, sweet and sassy. She can write her name, count, communicate well, and is a delight to our family. I look forward to what the next year holds! Happy birthday Hannah!
Thursday was the last Summer Fun Day and today we have already had playgroup. I've got a million things left on my to-do list today in addition to playing with the kids and doing school, so I'm going to have to leave this post short.
Till next time!
Friday, July 12, 2019
July 12, 2019
Two Fridays ago, the kids and I left for a 10 day stint in Dallas. Francis came for both weekends and the 4th, but had to be home for work Monday through Wednesday. The kids and I got to my parents' house around lunch and spent much of the rest of the day swimming in the pool. (This was an ongoing activity throughout the trip.) All the kids had passed swim lessons, but Robert had yet to try to swim without holding onto the side of the pool (the instructors held onto him or gave him a kick-board to practice strokes). Well, I told him to jump in from the side and swim to me. He was nervous, but went for it, and he made it! So we tried again and again, each time a little longer. Before he knew it, Robert had made it across the pool. Since then, there's been no going back. I'm so happy for him and he loves that he has graduated from the need to use a floatie.
Saturday was busy. Francis (who came Friday evening), the kids, my parents, Danielle, Kevin, Christian and her kids all went to a celebration in downtown Wylie. They had activities for the kids (including horseback riding, much to Hannah's delight), music, food and bounce houses. We stayed until after lunch, then hung out in my parents (where the big boys played video games) and ended the evening with Alexandra sleeping over and watching fireworks from my parents' yard.
Sunday we got up for church and in the afternoon we went swimming and took family photos. The clouds (and Hannah) were only somewhat cooperative, but we managed to get a few good pictures.
Monday Christian had to work, so Danielle, Kevin and I took all 8 kids (Christian's and mine) to the Dallas zoo. It was actually really fun! William loves the gators, Andrew had a particular affinity for the apes, Hannah loves all the stature and Robert loved the animatronic dinosaurs (I don't know why they are there either. We even managed to get everyone fed and left right at nap time. After another evening of swimming, we got up Tuesday morning and all (kids, sisters, Kevin and my mom) went and did the Crayola experience. We learned how crayons are made, created artwork of various kinds, played with the huge screens, made our own crayon and played in the playscape. My kids could have spent all day there, but we finally left to have lunch with Papa and play at the mall playground. We ended the day back at my parents to swim.
Wednesday was more low key. Cousins came over and the whole crew (minus Francis and Chad) enjoyed the nice weather outside playing and swimming. That day I packed up all my stuff (and the dogs and moved over to my in-law's house. Andrew and Robert (who wanted some quiet time) stayed with Nana and Grandad while Hannah, William and I got to march in the Sachse parade with my mother. Danielle, Kevin, William, a few others and I walked the whole route passing out candy and necklaces while Hannah rode in a convertible waving with my mom (something Princess Hannah was born to do...she told me afterward she wants to grow up to be a princess at Disney World) and my dad drove his decorated truck behind which held all the candy. It was really fun! I was amazed by how much William walked. He's a trooper!
Thursday was the 4th of July. We (Francis returned the night before) got up early and staked our claim on the Plano parade route with my parents, the Drakes, the Aguilars, my in-laws and us (aka our whole family minus the Boergers). Danielle's friend Erin also joined us. The parade was a good length and the kids got a lot of candy. We then went and had BBQ at my parents' house, followed by Hannah's 4th birthday party. She really wanted her party on the 4th so we could swim and have a snowball fight (a tradition at our house). We had cake, opened presents, swam, snowball fought and before we knew it, it was time to head to fireworks. The parking lot with out traditional spot was closed off (Boo!) but we found a spot and didn't let it spoil our fireworks enjoyment. Overall it was a perfect 4th and even the weather cooperated!
Friday was Danielle's birthday. After meeting up with a childhood friend for breakfast (Candace), Hannah and I joined Danielle, Kevin and my parents at Studio Movie Grill for lunch and to see Aladdin. It was so cute. We Francis and the boys at my parents house for, you guessed it, swimming, games and eventually Chick-fil-a dinner. Francis and I then dropped off the kids at my in-laws (thank you!). The two of us met up with Danielle, Kevin, Christian, Erin, Sierra and my parents to do an Escape Room. I had never done one before. This one was themed Stranger Things--a show which I have not seen. I decided to read the synopsis in the parking lot before going in, and I'm glad I did so I could appreciate the references. We escaped with 17 minutes to spare (out of an hour). It was fun but stressful for me, haha.
Saturday we had Andrew's first birthday party. The family in town all showed up, and we swam, had cake, did a pinata, had a delicious hamburger lunch and even played some board games. Andrew was not a huge fan of his smash cake. He smooshed it around like playdough, then pushed it off the high chair tray. He loved the swimming. He hung out in the pool with Nana until he fell asleep. He's a water baby; that's for sure. He's grown so much over the past year. He is walking more than crawling all of a sudden (since like Monday) and he is communicating more, playing more interactively and still constantly discovering. I cannot wait to see what the next year holds!
Sunday we went to my in-law's church, had lunch at Arby's and headed home. We were ready to be in our own beds again, but it was a truly special trip. The week of the 4th is generally my favorite week of the year and it did not disappoint.
This week we've still been busy, but less so. Monday I had to take Lucy to the vet. She's ok, but goodness it was expensive and stinky. Tuesday we had Bible Study in the morning and Cow Appreciation night at chick-fil-a. All 6 of us dressed up in masks and got a free meal (we had a couple extra coupons to make that happen)! Wednesday we did some pictures in the morning and the headed off to the library for Star Wars Day there. They had all sorts of activities (pin the bun on Princess Leia, Star Wars bing, light saber training, Darth Vader blasting, etc), music and people in costume. My kids' pictures ended up in the paper as they used their sabers to pop bubbles! Thursday was the fist Summer Fun Days. William and Robert did "Fear (is not a) Factor" at church and Hannah and Andrew did "cooking through the Bible" all morning while I caught up on errands and things at home (like making the kids' school year book). I even got to have lunch date with Francis where our meal was, get this, free! Two free meals in one week. That's crazy talk. Today we had a morning playdate at McDonald's and we are about to do school. The kids enjoyed a 10 day hiatus from school, but I know they also enjoy the routine.
I guess that's all for now. Till Next time!
Saturday was busy. Francis (who came Friday evening), the kids, my parents, Danielle, Kevin, Christian and her kids all went to a celebration in downtown Wylie. They had activities for the kids (including horseback riding, much to Hannah's delight), music, food and bounce houses. We stayed until after lunch, then hung out in my parents (where the big boys played video games) and ended the evening with Alexandra sleeping over and watching fireworks from my parents' yard.
Sunday we got up for church and in the afternoon we went swimming and took family photos. The clouds (and Hannah) were only somewhat cooperative, but we managed to get a few good pictures.
Monday Christian had to work, so Danielle, Kevin and I took all 8 kids (Christian's and mine) to the Dallas zoo. It was actually really fun! William loves the gators, Andrew had a particular affinity for the apes, Hannah loves all the stature and Robert loved the animatronic dinosaurs (I don't know why they are there either. We even managed to get everyone fed and left right at nap time. After another evening of swimming, we got up Tuesday morning and all (kids, sisters, Kevin and my mom) went and did the Crayola experience. We learned how crayons are made, created artwork of various kinds, played with the huge screens, made our own crayon and played in the playscape. My kids could have spent all day there, but we finally left to have lunch with Papa and play at the mall playground. We ended the day back at my parents to swim.
Wednesday was more low key. Cousins came over and the whole crew (minus Francis and Chad) enjoyed the nice weather outside playing and swimming. That day I packed up all my stuff (and the dogs and moved over to my in-law's house. Andrew and Robert (who wanted some quiet time) stayed with Nana and Grandad while Hannah, William and I got to march in the Sachse parade with my mother. Danielle, Kevin, William, a few others and I walked the whole route passing out candy and necklaces while Hannah rode in a convertible waving with my mom (something Princess Hannah was born to do...she told me afterward she wants to grow up to be a princess at Disney World) and my dad drove his decorated truck behind which held all the candy. It was really fun! I was amazed by how much William walked. He's a trooper!
Thursday was the 4th of July. We (Francis returned the night before) got up early and staked our claim on the Plano parade route with my parents, the Drakes, the Aguilars, my in-laws and us (aka our whole family minus the Boergers). Danielle's friend Erin also joined us. The parade was a good length and the kids got a lot of candy. We then went and had BBQ at my parents' house, followed by Hannah's 4th birthday party. She really wanted her party on the 4th so we could swim and have a snowball fight (a tradition at our house). We had cake, opened presents, swam, snowball fought and before we knew it, it was time to head to fireworks. The parking lot with out traditional spot was closed off (Boo!) but we found a spot and didn't let it spoil our fireworks enjoyment. Overall it was a perfect 4th and even the weather cooperated!
Friday was Danielle's birthday. After meeting up with a childhood friend for breakfast (Candace), Hannah and I joined Danielle, Kevin and my parents at Studio Movie Grill for lunch and to see Aladdin. It was so cute. We Francis and the boys at my parents house for, you guessed it, swimming, games and eventually Chick-fil-a dinner. Francis and I then dropped off the kids at my in-laws (thank you!). The two of us met up with Danielle, Kevin, Christian, Erin, Sierra and my parents to do an Escape Room. I had never done one before. This one was themed Stranger Things--a show which I have not seen. I decided to read the synopsis in the parking lot before going in, and I'm glad I did so I could appreciate the references. We escaped with 17 minutes to spare (out of an hour). It was fun but stressful for me, haha.
Saturday we had Andrew's first birthday party. The family in town all showed up, and we swam, had cake, did a pinata, had a delicious hamburger lunch and even played some board games. Andrew was not a huge fan of his smash cake. He smooshed it around like playdough, then pushed it off the high chair tray. He loved the swimming. He hung out in the pool with Nana until he fell asleep. He's a water baby; that's for sure. He's grown so much over the past year. He is walking more than crawling all of a sudden (since like Monday) and he is communicating more, playing more interactively and still constantly discovering. I cannot wait to see what the next year holds!
Sunday we went to my in-law's church, had lunch at Arby's and headed home. We were ready to be in our own beds again, but it was a truly special trip. The week of the 4th is generally my favorite week of the year and it did not disappoint.
This week we've still been busy, but less so. Monday I had to take Lucy to the vet. She's ok, but goodness it was expensive and stinky. Tuesday we had Bible Study in the morning and Cow Appreciation night at chick-fil-a. All 6 of us dressed up in masks and got a free meal (we had a couple extra coupons to make that happen)! Wednesday we did some pictures in the morning and the headed off to the library for Star Wars Day there. They had all sorts of activities (pin the bun on Princess Leia, Star Wars bing, light saber training, Darth Vader blasting, etc), music and people in costume. My kids' pictures ended up in the paper as they used their sabers to pop bubbles! Thursday was the fist Summer Fun Days. William and Robert did "Fear (is not a) Factor" at church and Hannah and Andrew did "cooking through the Bible" all morning while I caught up on errands and things at home (like making the kids' school year book). I even got to have lunch date with Francis where our meal was, get this, free! Two free meals in one week. That's crazy talk. Today we had a morning playdate at McDonald's and we are about to do school. The kids enjoyed a 10 day hiatus from school, but I know they also enjoy the routine.
I guess that's all for now. Till Next time!
Thursday, June 27, 2019
June 27, 2019
My last baby turned ONE on Saturday. I can't believe it. We celebrated first on Friday with friends at a splash pad with Shipley's donuts and a ton of water play. The donuts were great, and I'm now very popular with my kids' friends. Andrew loved the fountains and didn't seem to mind being sprayed in the face. Friday evening we went to movie night at church with pizza and popcorn. We watched How to Train you Dragon. It was a good last day as and 11 month old for Andrew.
Saturday we were up early, had breakfast and went to see Toy Story 4. Andrew slept through the first half, then woke up to eat popcorn and then hung out with Francis along the back side wall of the theater near the exit. He was very good as was the movie. We had lunch at one of Andre's favorite places: chick-fil-a. After eating, he got to go in the play area for the first time. He had a blast even though he didn't climb very high (to my relief). His siblings thought it was the best time and cheered him on. We went home for an afternoon rest and regroup. For Andrew's birthday dinner we went to a new baked pizza place in town (Howdy's) and he got a free shake that we were all able to share. We came home, sang, and had a (little) ice cream and cake. Andrew was a little confused at first, but after I had him taste the icing, he was all in! Over all it was a great first birthday. As I held him before he went to sleep, I thought back to how hard that day he was born had been. The following week was even harder and we've had trouble since then, but it's all been worth it. he is worth it and I'm so glad he is part of our family. We love you Andrew!
This week is the second week of swim lessons so our evenings have been spent at the pool. The kids have been learning and tonight they get to show that off and have some fun. In the mornings we have been home some with the exception of Bible Study Tuesday and a trip to the library on Wednesday. Last Wednesday they had a famous story teller come and do stories. This Wednesday they had the inflatable planetarium from Houston come so the kids could learn about constellations. My kids can now find many constellations, name them and find the north star.
Yesterday afternoon Andrew had his one year well check. He is 32 inches (which is even more off the charts long than he already was) with a big beautiful head that matches. He is just shy of 22 lbs and is just above average. So he's long an lean. He's met and exceeded all of his milestones. When the nurse asked is he was able to stand independently, he actually stood up and tried to walk off the exam table right on cue. He's talking quite a bit and lets his opinion about everything be known. He's currently contemplating how to climb out of the baby swing instead of taking a rest which he needs. If he would sleep better and drink out of a cup (he eats like a champ), we'd be batting 1000. I can't wait to see what this next year holds. I have a feeling there will be a lot of adventure.
We are coming up on my favorite week of the year: 4th of July week! The kids and I (and Francis for a few days too) will be up in Dallas playing with family. Please pray for safe travels and good weather.
Till next time!
Saturday we were up early, had breakfast and went to see Toy Story 4. Andrew slept through the first half, then woke up to eat popcorn and then hung out with Francis along the back side wall of the theater near the exit. He was very good as was the movie. We had lunch at one of Andre's favorite places: chick-fil-a. After eating, he got to go in the play area for the first time. He had a blast even though he didn't climb very high (to my relief). His siblings thought it was the best time and cheered him on. We went home for an afternoon rest and regroup. For Andrew's birthday dinner we went to a new baked pizza place in town (Howdy's) and he got a free shake that we were all able to share. We came home, sang, and had a (little) ice cream and cake. Andrew was a little confused at first, but after I had him taste the icing, he was all in! Over all it was a great first birthday. As I held him before he went to sleep, I thought back to how hard that day he was born had been. The following week was even harder and we've had trouble since then, but it's all been worth it. he is worth it and I'm so glad he is part of our family. We love you Andrew!
This week is the second week of swim lessons so our evenings have been spent at the pool. The kids have been learning and tonight they get to show that off and have some fun. In the mornings we have been home some with the exception of Bible Study Tuesday and a trip to the library on Wednesday. Last Wednesday they had a famous story teller come and do stories. This Wednesday they had the inflatable planetarium from Houston come so the kids could learn about constellations. My kids can now find many constellations, name them and find the north star.
Yesterday afternoon Andrew had his one year well check. He is 32 inches (which is even more off the charts long than he already was) with a big beautiful head that matches. He is just shy of 22 lbs and is just above average. So he's long an lean. He's met and exceeded all of his milestones. When the nurse asked is he was able to stand independently, he actually stood up and tried to walk off the exam table right on cue. He's talking quite a bit and lets his opinion about everything be known. He's currently contemplating how to climb out of the baby swing instead of taking a rest which he needs. If he would sleep better and drink out of a cup (he eats like a champ), we'd be batting 1000. I can't wait to see what this next year holds. I have a feeling there will be a lot of adventure.
We are coming up on my favorite week of the year: 4th of July week! The kids and I (and Francis for a few days too) will be up in Dallas playing with family. Please pray for safe travels and good weather.
Till next time!
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