I can't believe it's been two weeks since my last post. So much has happened I have no hope of putting it all down.
Friday before last I awoke very early (after arriving with the kids and Francis in Dallas late the evening before) to catch the 6:00am flight to Denver. My amazing travelling companion was my sister Danielle! We were picked up at the airport by the bride-to-be Erin. We had a long but productive day getting all the decorations ready, having a bridesmaids lunch and getting checked into our hotel that evening (an adventure in itself!). Erin did introduce us to some pretty impressive Pizza, though, and the hotel we stayed in was just perfect. I went to bed completely wiped out, but glad I was able to be there for Erin. The breakfast that morning was amazing and after a few errands and brunch at a sweet little place near Georgetown, the bridesmaids, Danielle and Erin all got ready for the big event. Next we headed to the venue, which was a train station. Midway through setting up, a cold front came through and the rain started. That did not deter the dedicated crew and I stood cold but happy as Erin took her vows. The train ride reception was both unique and fun. Also, thankfully, it was warm and dry. Danielle and I sat across from another one of the bridesmaids, Lilly and her boyfriend. Together the four of us had a delightful time. After loading all the decorations back in the cars, We hugged Erin and Tom goodbye. Erin's sweet mom drove us back to a hotel by the airport that evening where we spent another short night.
Sunday morning we were up for a 7am flight. It ended up being extra fun because Dani and I were part of the first flight by Southwest's new MAX 8 airplanes. It was cool to be the first one to sit in a seat on a plane, and the crew was super peppy! Because we are crazy, we headed straight for the great State Fair of Texas upon landing in Dallas. We met up with the rest of the Noble Clan as well as Francis and my kids. Francis and the kids had done the Grapevine Aquarium, Legoland, and the Dallas Zoo all in the two days I was gone, so they are slightly crazy too. Anyway, the Fair was fun even though the puppet show wasn't there this year. It was nice to have Francis there for once since he usually has to stay home. Poor Alexandra fell off a tall step and hurt her foot. She's still healing so please be praying for her! My kids particularly loved the new Magic show and the fireworks. They've been reenacting both ever since (with Pokemon added in for good measure).
The week was a bit of a blur, but I did have Tutor training, Parent's night out (we had dinner and then relaxed at home...yeah we're old), and generally tried to get back in the groove. Thursday the kdis and I went on a CC field trip to Barrington Family Farm (the home of the 3rd president of Texas, and the Star of the Republic Museum at Washington-on-the-Brazos). The kids learned all about the 1850s. They did chores on the farm, saw all the animals, made old fashioned toys and were exhausted by the end. It was a good day full of fun and learning. I found out Hannah really loves washing clothes on a washboard and hanging them out to dry. Who knew? Saturday evening I went with Robin to see a local production of Beauty and the Beast. Turns out than in real life Belle and Gaston are engaged so that made some of the interactions more interesting/compelling than they would have likely been otherwise. Not sure how else to say that, but the show was very good!
This week we've been getting ready for Francis's birthday which is on Monday. I've been giving him a little gift each day (like a special edition luggage tag which I got from my special flight, or his favorite drink or snack, etc). I've also been making some of his favorite food. He doesn't get to pick very often and the kids usually don't want to eat what he loves (like Lasagna and Meatloaf) so this week he gets it all. We decorated today and will make and decorate the cake tomorrow (this is one of my favorite traditions to do with the kids!). Today we also spent most of the morning at Walmart so that the kids could each get a gift that they thought Daddy would like. This was hard for them, but after much thought, they each came up with something they thought Daddy would like. It is hard to get Francis stuff because he never tells you what he wants, but I think he will be pleased with what they chose.
Well that's it for now!
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Monday, September 25, 2017
September 25, 2017
It's been a whirlwind couple of weeks. Francis went to Houston to help with Hurricane Harvey cleanup Saturday before last. William did not understand why he had to be gone on a Saturday. Nothing I could tell him would make him understand. Finally I asked him to imagine that all his Pokemon cards had gotten ruined and that he would have to start his collection over. He had tears well up in his eyes. I told him that many people lost all their Pokemon cards, all their furniture and all their things. He was then glad Francis was there to help. I'm thankful for a husband who wants to help.
This past week we continued in our weekly routine until Thursday night when my sweet friend Rebecca and he son Jonas came to visit us from Abilene. She is on sabbatical from work and blessed us by spending some time with us. We took the kids to the park Friday morning for playgroup, had lunch at Mcalister's Deli (where I left my credit card and didn't discover it until Saturday, but it was safe!), played around the house in the afternoon, had a delicious tortellini dinner and then went on an evening walk to the closest park. It was a lazy day, but the kids had a blast. Rebecca and I talked past midnight that night. My soul was renewed by spending time with this kindred spirit. I could've talked hours more. Saturday morning after breakfast they headed back. The kids were sorry to see Jonas go. Hopefully we will see them again when we go to Abilene in October!
Saturday was a busy day. After our house guests left I discovered my credit card was gone while checking out at Walmart, and had to go get it. I'm so glad it was still there! All of us then went to the Classical Conversations Family Fun pool party at someone's house. They had a pool and a huge inflatable water slide. We were able to swim and watch the A&M game (which we couldn't do at home). After the party we headed to Hadassah's 3rd birthday party at a gym place in town, so my kids got to run around for another hour and a half. It was such a fun day, but whew we were ready for bed that night!
In other news, Hannah has taken a shine to wearing jewelry. She has been wearing ALL of her jewelry (3 necklaces and 6+ bracelets) every day, all day unless I make her take them off. She keeps saying that they are "beautiful". She also wants to wear the googles from swimming all the time, but I finally hid them and she hasn't asked today. I would let her wear them except they are hard and leave marks on her face. She tries to sleep in them too. She loves to accessorize!
Robert is starting to spell and read a few words. I'm not pushing him. He wants to read like William, so we are taking it slow. He's also started doing single digit addition on his own with high accuracy. I love that he's motivated. He's becoming more of a preschooler every day. I'm biased but I've got some smart kids over here.
William is doing great with his first grade curriculum. He's getting faster at wiriting (thank goodness as it's not his favorite!), and he's loving all the challenges of 2nd grade math. He's doing well in AWANAS (so is Robert) and I've decided to build in some time for studying his verses during rest time. It's been working out really well and I think he's starting to meditate on what the verses actually me.
All the kids are starting to do more around the house. I'm working on creating responsible future adults, and in turn they are teaching me to be patient. Just because I can do it faster down't mean I should.
That's it for now!
This past week we continued in our weekly routine until Thursday night when my sweet friend Rebecca and he son Jonas came to visit us from Abilene. She is on sabbatical from work and blessed us by spending some time with us. We took the kids to the park Friday morning for playgroup, had lunch at Mcalister's Deli (where I left my credit card and didn't discover it until Saturday, but it was safe!), played around the house in the afternoon, had a delicious tortellini dinner and then went on an evening walk to the closest park. It was a lazy day, but the kids had a blast. Rebecca and I talked past midnight that night. My soul was renewed by spending time with this kindred spirit. I could've talked hours more. Saturday morning after breakfast they headed back. The kids were sorry to see Jonas go. Hopefully we will see them again when we go to Abilene in October!
Saturday was a busy day. After our house guests left I discovered my credit card was gone while checking out at Walmart, and had to go get it. I'm so glad it was still there! All of us then went to the Classical Conversations Family Fun pool party at someone's house. They had a pool and a huge inflatable water slide. We were able to swim and watch the A&M game (which we couldn't do at home). After the party we headed to Hadassah's 3rd birthday party at a gym place in town, so my kids got to run around for another hour and a half. It was such a fun day, but whew we were ready for bed that night!
In other news, Hannah has taken a shine to wearing jewelry. She has been wearing ALL of her jewelry (3 necklaces and 6+ bracelets) every day, all day unless I make her take them off. She keeps saying that they are "beautiful". She also wants to wear the googles from swimming all the time, but I finally hid them and she hasn't asked today. I would let her wear them except they are hard and leave marks on her face. She tries to sleep in them too. She loves to accessorize!
Robert is starting to spell and read a few words. I'm not pushing him. He wants to read like William, so we are taking it slow. He's also started doing single digit addition on his own with high accuracy. I love that he's motivated. He's becoming more of a preschooler every day. I'm biased but I've got some smart kids over here.
William is doing great with his first grade curriculum. He's getting faster at wiriting (thank goodness as it's not his favorite!), and he's loving all the challenges of 2nd grade math. He's doing well in AWANAS (so is Robert) and I've decided to build in some time for studying his verses during rest time. It's been working out really well and I think he's starting to meditate on what the verses actually me.
All the kids are starting to do more around the house. I'm working on creating responsible future adults, and in turn they are teaching me to be patient. Just because I can do it faster down't mean I should.
That's it for now!
Thursday, September 14, 2017
September 14, 2015
Life has been rolling along here at Phillips Manor (or whatever you want to call where we live). Labor Day weekend we ended up in Dallas. We got to spend Saturday with my family hanging out and supporting my mother at a Labor Day rally. The kids had fun on the massive playground and loved the popsicles. Hannah even got her face painted for the first time and loved it. Sunday we went to church and spent time with my in-laws. they had been in Houston the day before helping with clean-up efforts, so it was nice to see them. We headed back to College Station after dinner. My second week of tutoring the boys' class went much smoother. We are checking out more and more books at the Library on Wednesdays and William is blowing through novels in a day or two. This kid loves loves loves to read. In fact, he doesn't hear you when he is reading. I'm working on finding the best way to get his attention when he is reading, but I'm not complaining that he has a thirst for the written word. It will serve him well in life.
This past weekend was Robert's 4th birthday. Since his birthday was a Sunday, he got to chose his birthday activity early. On Thursday we went to Jumping World trampoline park and had the place pretty much to ourselves. The kids really love the foam pits there! Since there were not other kids (only a couple at the end), the employees played "dodge-ball" with my kids and ran around with them too. It was so fun! Saturday we had Chick-fil-a for dinner because Robert wanted it for his birthday meal and they aren't open on Sunday. We ended up buying extra so we could have it for dinner Sunday too. Robert was one happy kiddo. His actual birthday consisted of opening a couple presents, church, lunch at Rudy's BBQ (his choice), rest time and playing with his toys, AWANAS and chick-fil-a for dinner. Robert is so smart. He can write his name, draws pretty interesing pictures, asks why questions all the time, is always thinking, has an imagination that astounds me, is active, is loving, cares for others, and is cute as can be! We love you Robert. Happy Birthday!
This week we are settling into our routine. This Tuesday went pretty smooth also and I am starting to look forward to Community Day. The kids in my group are so smart and eager that it does make my task a joy. Yesterday William and Robert had their yearly check-ups. William is over 52 lbs and over 47 inches. He's looking forward to riding the "over 48 inches" rides soon, though I'm not sure where or when he thinks that will happen. Robert is 32 1/2 lbs and over 39 inches. He's growing right on his growth curve and healthy as can be. He's starting to look long and lean just like his momma did as a kid. The kids all got their flu shots. Hannah was eager to go first, Robert was content to go second, and William hid under the table and we had to hold him to give him hid shot. It takes all kinds, and it just proves my kids have personalities all their own.
That's all I have for right now. Life's too busy to type too much. Gotta get back to life! Till next time!
This past weekend was Robert's 4th birthday. Since his birthday was a Sunday, he got to chose his birthday activity early. On Thursday we went to Jumping World trampoline park and had the place pretty much to ourselves. The kids really love the foam pits there! Since there were not other kids (only a couple at the end), the employees played "dodge-ball" with my kids and ran around with them too. It was so fun! Saturday we had Chick-fil-a for dinner because Robert wanted it for his birthday meal and they aren't open on Sunday. We ended up buying extra so we could have it for dinner Sunday too. Robert was one happy kiddo. His actual birthday consisted of opening a couple presents, church, lunch at Rudy's BBQ (his choice), rest time and playing with his toys, AWANAS and chick-fil-a for dinner. Robert is so smart. He can write his name, draws pretty interesing pictures, asks why questions all the time, is always thinking, has an imagination that astounds me, is active, is loving, cares for others, and is cute as can be! We love you Robert. Happy Birthday!
This week we are settling into our routine. This Tuesday went pretty smooth also and I am starting to look forward to Community Day. The kids in my group are so smart and eager that it does make my task a joy. Yesterday William and Robert had their yearly check-ups. William is over 52 lbs and over 47 inches. He's looking forward to riding the "over 48 inches" rides soon, though I'm not sure where or when he thinks that will happen. Robert is 32 1/2 lbs and over 39 inches. He's growing right on his growth curve and healthy as can be. He's starting to look long and lean just like his momma did as a kid. The kids all got their flu shots. Hannah was eager to go first, Robert was content to go second, and William hid under the table and we had to hold him to give him hid shot. It takes all kinds, and it just proves my kids have personalities all their own.
That's all I have for right now. Life's too busy to type too much. Gotta get back to life! Till next time!
Friday, September 1, 2017
September 1, 2017
This past week has held a lot of tears (both happy and sad). The rain started in earnest here early Saturday morning. It wasn't so bad here at first, but I woke up truly believing my kids would have no one at their party. I underestimated the wonderful people that we have in our lives. After fretting far more than I should all morning, every friend came save the ones stuck in Houston (which is understandable!)!!! I shed tears of joy at the love these people poured over us. It was a sweet time with cupcakes, pinatas and, of course, Pokemon. The kids had a blast!!! My family and in-laws all made it in miraculously by early afternoon so we had a family party with the whole family save those stuck in Houston and Austin. The boys got a ton of Pokemon cards (their favorite)! Again I shed happy tears. Thank you friends and family. You touched my heart more than you will ever know. Thank you for loving me and my children!
The rain continued through Sunday, and we had a little trouble making it to church, but it was fine. we had 700 people in the service when the pastor was thinking there would be less than 50. We don't like missing church! It rained through most of Monday, and we got around 25-30 inches over the weekend, but thanks to a ton of pasture land and good flood planes, I was never worried about flooding. And now because we are in such good shape and so close to Houston, we are able to house many of the rescue workers in town, fuel up aircraft and our church is currently open to house medical teams at night. I'm happy with how available our community if to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey. We are in it for the long haul.
Francis had volunteered overnight and gone through official disaster relief training. I pray he will be a light when he is called down to Houston in the next month or two for clean up. I've been collecting up needed items and getting them to people/group who are driving down. I cry because it doesn't feel like enough. But God is in control and so I pray for those impacted.
Tuesday we started a new year of Classical Conversations. I am tutoring the boys' class this year, and so Tuesday was my first day back teaching in a classroom setting in years. It was bumpy and teaching my own kids was more challenging than I anticipated, but we made it through with the grace and love of the other moms in the room. I love my CC community. Hopefully next week will run smoother and I will get into a good groove. It was Robert's first time in class ever and he LOVED it. I'm so glad.
That's all for now. The kids are doing well. They have been enjoying the boys' birthday gifts, doing school, and being kids. Till next time!
The rain continued through Sunday, and we had a little trouble making it to church, but it was fine. we had 700 people in the service when the pastor was thinking there would be less than 50. We don't like missing church! It rained through most of Monday, and we got around 25-30 inches over the weekend, but thanks to a ton of pasture land and good flood planes, I was never worried about flooding. And now because we are in such good shape and so close to Houston, we are able to house many of the rescue workers in town, fuel up aircraft and our church is currently open to house medical teams at night. I'm happy with how available our community if to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey. We are in it for the long haul.
Francis had volunteered overnight and gone through official disaster relief training. I pray he will be a light when he is called down to Houston in the next month or two for clean up. I've been collecting up needed items and getting them to people/group who are driving down. I cry because it doesn't feel like enough. But God is in control and so I pray for those impacted.
Tuesday we started a new year of Classical Conversations. I am tutoring the boys' class this year, and so Tuesday was my first day back teaching in a classroom setting in years. It was bumpy and teaching my own kids was more challenging than I anticipated, but we made it through with the grace and love of the other moms in the room. I love my CC community. Hopefully next week will run smoother and I will get into a good groove. It was Robert's first time in class ever and he LOVED it. I'm so glad.
That's all for now. The kids are doing well. They have been enjoying the boys' birthday gifts, doing school, and being kids. Till next time!
Thursday, August 24, 2017
August 24, 2017
We had a fun play date with the Davis Family last week. Friendships were renewed and the house was fulled with laughter from both mommas and kiddos.
The theme this past week or so had been responsibility and perseverance. I taught the boys how to make their bed and how to bring their plate the sink when they are done, and now they are responsible for it each morning and meal respectively. So far, it's not been a problem. They fussed about it when I taught them, but I've gotten no grumbling since then. I'll call that a win. Saturday morning the boys got up, made their beds without being asked, offered to set the table, cleaned up after breakfast, got dressed on their own and even cleaned up their toys when they finished without being asked. It was amazing. They felt good about being independent and I was happy that they are learning to take ownership of their actions. I had a first on Saturday too. I mowed the lawn, more specifically the back yard. I can't remember the last time it had been mowed and Francis set out to tackle it Saturday morning. Knowing we wouldn't see him all day if left to do it alone, I pitched in a mowed while he edged, weed eated and trimmed. What would have taken him 6 or so hours took the both of us 3 1/2. I was exhausted but glad to have done my part. And the backyard looks SO much better. whew!
Perseverance has also been on the menu around here. We play Pokemon Go over here and they released some "ledgendary" Pokemon, but only for a short time starting in July. You have to go battle the pokemon with other people and then try to catch it. Even once you beat it, there is a very low chance you will catch it. Well, after a month of going out nearly every night, Francis, the boys and I all have all 4 that are out. It was hard for the kids (and me!) at times to understand why we were the unlucky ones not to catch whichever one, but it made when we did that much better. Robert and Hannah now have a great rock collection from all the places and playgrounds we have been visiting. It was a good time as a family, but I am glad for a respite!
Tuesday was Classical Conversations Orientation. I got to meet my kiddos and work out a few of my nerves. I'm excited for this Tuesday when we get to kick off with week one! I've been practicing with my kids this week in hopes it will run smooth on Tuesday. We'll see!
This Saturday is supposed to be the boys' birthday party. The weather is supposed to get dicey with the storm Harvey coming through, but I'm praying hard that it will hold off until the party-ing is over. William is particularly worried that no one will come if it is raining. Please pray it all works out.
Till next time!
The theme this past week or so had been responsibility and perseverance. I taught the boys how to make their bed and how to bring their plate the sink when they are done, and now they are responsible for it each morning and meal respectively. So far, it's not been a problem. They fussed about it when I taught them, but I've gotten no grumbling since then. I'll call that a win. Saturday morning the boys got up, made their beds without being asked, offered to set the table, cleaned up after breakfast, got dressed on their own and even cleaned up their toys when they finished without being asked. It was amazing. They felt good about being independent and I was happy that they are learning to take ownership of their actions. I had a first on Saturday too. I mowed the lawn, more specifically the back yard. I can't remember the last time it had been mowed and Francis set out to tackle it Saturday morning. Knowing we wouldn't see him all day if left to do it alone, I pitched in a mowed while he edged, weed eated and trimmed. What would have taken him 6 or so hours took the both of us 3 1/2. I was exhausted but glad to have done my part. And the backyard looks SO much better. whew!
Perseverance has also been on the menu around here. We play Pokemon Go over here and they released some "ledgendary" Pokemon, but only for a short time starting in July. You have to go battle the pokemon with other people and then try to catch it. Even once you beat it, there is a very low chance you will catch it. Well, after a month of going out nearly every night, Francis, the boys and I all have all 4 that are out. It was hard for the kids (and me!) at times to understand why we were the unlucky ones not to catch whichever one, but it made when we did that much better. Robert and Hannah now have a great rock collection from all the places and playgrounds we have been visiting. It was a good time as a family, but I am glad for a respite!
Tuesday was Classical Conversations Orientation. I got to meet my kiddos and work out a few of my nerves. I'm excited for this Tuesday when we get to kick off with week one! I've been practicing with my kids this week in hopes it will run smooth on Tuesday. We'll see!
This Saturday is supposed to be the boys' birthday party. The weather is supposed to get dicey with the storm Harvey coming through, but I'm praying hard that it will hold off until the party-ing is over. William is particularly worried that no one will come if it is raining. Please pray it all works out.
Till next time!
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
August 15, 2017
We have 6 year old over here! It was a whirlwind week last week. Mostly it involved getting ready for Classical Conversations training and then having training. I'm feeling more ready every day. I made my tri fold board where all of my writing/tutor information goes. That in itself is a weight off of my shoulders. Orientation is next Tuesday, so we are getting close!
Friday William woke up to a house decorated in Pokemon and got to open his present from Francis and myself. He was so ready all week to be 6 and his face Friday morning was pure excitement. He got both sides of a fabric Pokemon card board as well as a few Pokemon cards, card protectors, and a figurine. He had since gotten to try out the board and it meets with his approval (the old paper board was tearing). The kids and I went to try out the new trampoline park. I thought we would only be there an hour, but all the kids qualified for "toddler time" so 3 hours actually ended up being much cheaper than one. And the kids played all 3 hours (I was one tired momma). they jumped in foam pits, did the trapeze, played dodge ball, climbed the rock wall, played basketball, did the battle on the balance beam and jumped a little on the trampolines too. It was a blast! Afterward, William picked out his cake and ice cream from Walmart and we headed home. The afternoon was quiet but ended with a couple episodes of...you guessed it...Pokemon. William chose Olive Garden for dinner and then we did a few Pokemon battles at local parks where William caught his first Legendary Pokemon. He was very excited and so were we. We went home, had cake and sang and hit the hay. My favorite part of the day, though, was all the phone calls from all of our family to wish him a happy birthday. We got calls/videos/facetimes from Sweetie, Papa, Christian and the twins, Nana, Grandad, Kevin and Danielle, and Cyndy and Abby. It just reminded me how lucky I am to have such a wonderful family who loves William so much. Thanks everyone. And a very happy birthday to William!
Saturday, Nana and Grandad came through town on their way to Houston. We got to have lunch with them and do a little shopping. It was fun to see them and the kids especially liked the ice cream at the mall just before they left. i wish we lived closer to family, but having them come through town is always a treat! We are back in our regular Sunday school classes on Sundays (meaning summer series is over), and it's nice to see everyone again. Not sure why I mentioned it except it is just one more signal that summer is coming to a close. Each season is sweet for it's own reason and I am sure fall will be great, but this summer has been amazing. I will hold onto it as long as it will let me.
Hannah and Robert are also doing well. Hannah is so active and talking up a storm about anything and everything. I have three kids who love to communicate. It's wonderful, but I have a hard time keeping up sometimes! I get why my mother had the "one at a time" system for my sisters and me growing up. It's fun though to hear all of their thoughts. Robert has a particularly vivid imagination. His "what ifs" are delightfully confusing as I have no idea where he comes up with this stuff. I am so thankful for his creativity. Hannah has started skipping naps all together and crashing about 6:30pm. We are having to figure out a new normal around this schedule, but so far it hasn't been too bad. I do miss my cuddle time though! They all still hug me all the time though, so I'm not too bad off.
Angel and her boys Ranger and Asher are headed this way, and I still have a couple things to do. Till next time!
Friday William woke up to a house decorated in Pokemon and got to open his present from Francis and myself. He was so ready all week to be 6 and his face Friday morning was pure excitement. He got both sides of a fabric Pokemon card board as well as a few Pokemon cards, card protectors, and a figurine. He had since gotten to try out the board and it meets with his approval (the old paper board was tearing). The kids and I went to try out the new trampoline park. I thought we would only be there an hour, but all the kids qualified for "toddler time" so 3 hours actually ended up being much cheaper than one. And the kids played all 3 hours (I was one tired momma). they jumped in foam pits, did the trapeze, played dodge ball, climbed the rock wall, played basketball, did the battle on the balance beam and jumped a little on the trampolines too. It was a blast! Afterward, William picked out his cake and ice cream from Walmart and we headed home. The afternoon was quiet but ended with a couple episodes of...you guessed it...Pokemon. William chose Olive Garden for dinner and then we did a few Pokemon battles at local parks where William caught his first Legendary Pokemon. He was very excited and so were we. We went home, had cake and sang and hit the hay. My favorite part of the day, though, was all the phone calls from all of our family to wish him a happy birthday. We got calls/videos/facetimes from Sweetie, Papa, Christian and the twins, Nana, Grandad, Kevin and Danielle, and Cyndy and Abby. It just reminded me how lucky I am to have such a wonderful family who loves William so much. Thanks everyone. And a very happy birthday to William!
Saturday, Nana and Grandad came through town on their way to Houston. We got to have lunch with them and do a little shopping. It was fun to see them and the kids especially liked the ice cream at the mall just before they left. i wish we lived closer to family, but having them come through town is always a treat! We are back in our regular Sunday school classes on Sundays (meaning summer series is over), and it's nice to see everyone again. Not sure why I mentioned it except it is just one more signal that summer is coming to a close. Each season is sweet for it's own reason and I am sure fall will be great, but this summer has been amazing. I will hold onto it as long as it will let me.
Hannah and Robert are also doing well. Hannah is so active and talking up a storm about anything and everything. I have three kids who love to communicate. It's wonderful, but I have a hard time keeping up sometimes! I get why my mother had the "one at a time" system for my sisters and me growing up. It's fun though to hear all of their thoughts. Robert has a particularly vivid imagination. His "what ifs" are delightfully confusing as I have no idea where he comes up with this stuff. I am so thankful for his creativity. Hannah has started skipping naps all together and crashing about 6:30pm. We are having to figure out a new normal around this schedule, but so far it hasn't been too bad. I do miss my cuddle time though! They all still hug me all the time though, so I'm not too bad off.
Angel and her boys Ranger and Asher are headed this way, and I still have a couple things to do. Till next time!
Friday, August 4, 2017
August 3, 2017
Monday last was Hannah's 2nd birthday! She chose to go to the Children's Museum where I'm happy to say they have added a few new exhibits. I went ahead and got a membership again and we've already returned once. Hannah chose Cracker Barrel for her birthday dinner and loved both it and her cake that evening. Overall it was a great day. Hannah is getting good at making sentences. She is running, jumping and climbing to keep up with her brothers. She loves her baby dolls and helping me out. She eats almost anything put in front of her at least once. She loves loves loves her mommy, daddy and bruh bruhs (brotehrs). And we love her too! Happy Birthday baby girl!
Last Tuesday we had our last Bible Study for the summer and promptly headed off to Dallas to begins a whirlwind trip to Canada. The kids and I arrived at Christian's house mid-afternoon so the cousins could play. We celebrated at Christian's birthday dinner before heading to my in-laws' house for the night. The next morning the kids, my in-laws and I piled into the car to head to the airport. We flew to New York city and then drove to Montreal. We arrived around 2 am Thursday. The next morning (or the same one technically), we went over to see Nana Phillips and veiw all the wedding preparations for Daniel (Francis's cousin) and Syd's wedding. The wedding was to be held at Aunt Melo and Uncle Vic's house. They had a tent set up and things were moving along as we went to lunch at St. Huberts. Cyndy, Chris, Abby, and Nana Phillips joined our merry crew for lunch, and the laughter did my heart good. The afternoon was spent with those who could helping set up for the wedding, and the kids mostly playing all the games (pinball, table hockey, fooseball, etc) in the basement. That evening we had dinner down by a lock, and apart from a rainstorm, the weather was beautiful.
Friday the Boergers, my in-laws, the kids and I went to old town Montreal. Cyndy, Chris, Abby and William did varying levels of an obstacle course on a huge pirate ship while Robert and Hannah rode rides, played on inflatables and rode a little train down the pier. We had lunch from food carts where we made friends with strangers who also happen to be from Texas. It was then we learned Hannah has changed her name to Ariel (they asked and she responded), and has told everyone her name is Ariel ever since. We also visited Notre Dame (well, those of us awake who were in the mood), and then headed back to the hotel for a short respite. Francis arrived from the airport just in time for us to attend the rehearsal dinner back at Aunt Melo and Uncle Vic's house. It was such a fun evening. Daniel and Syd are such a friendly couple and the bride made a special effort to get to know us and the kids even though she hadn't met us before.
Saturday was wedding day! The Boergers, Nana Phillips, my in-laws and the 5 of us had breakfast at an old haunt, and the food was delicious. We went shopping and grabbed a quick lunch of poutine before heading to Aunt Melo and Uncle Vic's to get changed for the ceremony. The ceremony was in the back yard, and it was just perfect. The bride and groom had eyes for no one else and the love was palpable. the reception commenced also in the backyard after a break and included a delicious meal, games, dancing and fellowship. I met so many wonderful people in the extended "family" (related but not related to me). The kids had a blast with all of the lawn games and the party lasted from mid afternoon until well into the evening. We said goodbye to the happy couple with handfuls of confetti and then climbed in the car to return to the hotel. It was hard to say goodbye to everyone when we left, but the day could not have been sweeter.
Sunday morning we made the long drive to NYC, then took the plane to Dallas and finally landed at my in-law's house around 10pm. Francis flew to Houston from Montreal (lucky duck!) and made it to his meeting at school with 10 minutes to spare. The kids and I drove home Monday morning and although I was happy to be home, Hannah would not get out of the car. She was so happy to be travelling she didn't want to stop. This kid has come a long way from the child who screamed bloody murder every time she even saw the car seat or car. I guess family is worth driving for.
Tuesday morning the kids and I attended the Dough Show at the library that is put on each year but Dominoes Pizza. The kids loved the dough throwing (they throw it into the audience for the kids to play with), and really loved eating the pizza provided at the end. Tuesday evening I had my meeting with the other tutors and director of my CC campus this year. I got my class list (it's a good one!) and received my classroom supplies. I am still overwhelmed at the prospect of bring back in the classroom, but I'm hoping I will find my rhythm quickly. I have William and Robert both in my class and the boys are so excited to be together and with me. I'm pretty happy about it to. I have 5 boys and 3 girls this year. I pray that I will bless them and their mommas in their homeschool journeys this year. Tiffany (William's tutor from last year) sure blessed me.
Wednesday Hannah had her two year check up. She is leveling off on height to be just above average at just over 34 inches and she's still light in the weight department. She's healthy as can be and didn't even react when they gave her the shot at the the end. I'm loving seeing how she is growing and changing as she goes through the phases of toddlerhood. Keep growing, sweetie!
Wednesday was also Francis and my 9th wedding anniversary. We actually remembered and exchanged gifts for the first time in 9 years. Francis read that 9 years is the "willow" anniversary, so he got me a Willowtree figurine. Very sweet. We went out with the kids to have Mongolian BBQ for dinner, and then had pop corn, sodas, candy and a Redbox movie after the kid were in bed. Francis finally got to watch Hidden Figures and really enjoyed it. good times. I love you, Francis. 9 years is just the beginning!
Yesterday was our second trip to the Children's Museum and today we made it to play group (yay!). We have two trips to Adamson Lagoon scheduled for this weekend so it promises to include a lot of swimming (and hopefully kiddos that sleep well at night!). Till next time!
Last Tuesday we had our last Bible Study for the summer and promptly headed off to Dallas to begins a whirlwind trip to Canada. The kids and I arrived at Christian's house mid-afternoon so the cousins could play. We celebrated at Christian's birthday dinner before heading to my in-laws' house for the night. The next morning the kids, my in-laws and I piled into the car to head to the airport. We flew to New York city and then drove to Montreal. We arrived around 2 am Thursday. The next morning (or the same one technically), we went over to see Nana Phillips and veiw all the wedding preparations for Daniel (Francis's cousin) and Syd's wedding. The wedding was to be held at Aunt Melo and Uncle Vic's house. They had a tent set up and things were moving along as we went to lunch at St. Huberts. Cyndy, Chris, Abby, and Nana Phillips joined our merry crew for lunch, and the laughter did my heart good. The afternoon was spent with those who could helping set up for the wedding, and the kids mostly playing all the games (pinball, table hockey, fooseball, etc) in the basement. That evening we had dinner down by a lock, and apart from a rainstorm, the weather was beautiful.
Friday the Boergers, my in-laws, the kids and I went to old town Montreal. Cyndy, Chris, Abby and William did varying levels of an obstacle course on a huge pirate ship while Robert and Hannah rode rides, played on inflatables and rode a little train down the pier. We had lunch from food carts where we made friends with strangers who also happen to be from Texas. It was then we learned Hannah has changed her name to Ariel (they asked and she responded), and has told everyone her name is Ariel ever since. We also visited Notre Dame (well, those of us awake who were in the mood), and then headed back to the hotel for a short respite. Francis arrived from the airport just in time for us to attend the rehearsal dinner back at Aunt Melo and Uncle Vic's house. It was such a fun evening. Daniel and Syd are such a friendly couple and the bride made a special effort to get to know us and the kids even though she hadn't met us before.
Saturday was wedding day! The Boergers, Nana Phillips, my in-laws and the 5 of us had breakfast at an old haunt, and the food was delicious. We went shopping and grabbed a quick lunch of poutine before heading to Aunt Melo and Uncle Vic's to get changed for the ceremony. The ceremony was in the back yard, and it was just perfect. The bride and groom had eyes for no one else and the love was palpable. the reception commenced also in the backyard after a break and included a delicious meal, games, dancing and fellowship. I met so many wonderful people in the extended "family" (related but not related to me). The kids had a blast with all of the lawn games and the party lasted from mid afternoon until well into the evening. We said goodbye to the happy couple with handfuls of confetti and then climbed in the car to return to the hotel. It was hard to say goodbye to everyone when we left, but the day could not have been sweeter.
Sunday morning we made the long drive to NYC, then took the plane to Dallas and finally landed at my in-law's house around 10pm. Francis flew to Houston from Montreal (lucky duck!) and made it to his meeting at school with 10 minutes to spare. The kids and I drove home Monday morning and although I was happy to be home, Hannah would not get out of the car. She was so happy to be travelling she didn't want to stop. This kid has come a long way from the child who screamed bloody murder every time she even saw the car seat or car. I guess family is worth driving for.
Tuesday morning the kids and I attended the Dough Show at the library that is put on each year but Dominoes Pizza. The kids loved the dough throwing (they throw it into the audience for the kids to play with), and really loved eating the pizza provided at the end. Tuesday evening I had my meeting with the other tutors and director of my CC campus this year. I got my class list (it's a good one!) and received my classroom supplies. I am still overwhelmed at the prospect of bring back in the classroom, but I'm hoping I will find my rhythm quickly. I have William and Robert both in my class and the boys are so excited to be together and with me. I'm pretty happy about it to. I have 5 boys and 3 girls this year. I pray that I will bless them and their mommas in their homeschool journeys this year. Tiffany (William's tutor from last year) sure blessed me.
Wednesday Hannah had her two year check up. She is leveling off on height to be just above average at just over 34 inches and she's still light in the weight department. She's healthy as can be and didn't even react when they gave her the shot at the the end. I'm loving seeing how she is growing and changing as she goes through the phases of toddlerhood. Keep growing, sweetie!
Wednesday was also Francis and my 9th wedding anniversary. We actually remembered and exchanged gifts for the first time in 9 years. Francis read that 9 years is the "willow" anniversary, so he got me a Willowtree figurine. Very sweet. We went out with the kids to have Mongolian BBQ for dinner, and then had pop corn, sodas, candy and a Redbox movie after the kid were in bed. Francis finally got to watch Hidden Figures and really enjoyed it. good times. I love you, Francis. 9 years is just the beginning!
Yesterday was our second trip to the Children's Museum and today we made it to play group (yay!). We have two trips to Adamson Lagoon scheduled for this weekend so it promises to include a lot of swimming (and hopefully kiddos that sleep well at night!). Till next time!
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