It's been a while! Things are chugging along here. Things are generally going well. I'm still tutoring in Hannah's class at CC and I feel like I'm starting to get a rhythm. Of course, this is our week off, so who knows what week will hold?
Andrew is keeping me on my toes, as usual. When I picked him up last week from Bible Study, the teacher described how he climbed the shelves to get to the counter, and then proceeded to reach over the half door and push on the door knob to open the door (it's locked on the inside). When she called his name, he closed the door, climbed down, looked at her and smiled impishly. This pretty much describes my life with him right now. He's adorable and knows how to get into/out of anything. He's so smart and has things pretty much figured out. He's got quite a few opinions on the matter also. I'm looking forward to the day when we can discuss those opinions with words. He is sleeping through the night most night (cue angelic chorus) so at least I'm able to get a little sleep each night. I can't wait to see what is around the corner for my creative, athletic and strong willed baby!
Hannah is learning and growing all the time. She is having to learn to get along with her brothers. This is very easy sometimes, but she cannot understand why they don't want to play ponies or princesses every hour of the day. She is discovering her own love of reading. She has to be tucked in every night with at least 3 books. She loves looking at the pictures, especially Fancy Nancy or all things princess related. She is becoming articulate in her thoughts and exceptionally expressive in her feelings and gestures. It is fun to imagine what she will be like all grown up. For now, I'm loving little tea parties and watching girly shows with her. She's my girl.
Robert is taking after William in the books department. I can't get them books fast enough. Fridays are library days currently, and they usually manage to hit the max number of books for my card and then read them all before bed on Friday. It's crazy. Robert is loving a set of Dragon books right now. His imagination fits perfectly in the fantasy realm, and he makes up new stories or different endings as soon as he is finished reading. We have started the process of getting him tested for speech therapy. He is still having some difficulty with his "r"s and "s"s (though he has worked so hard and made so much progress!!!), and we just want to make sure he is not in need of extra help. He has been playing his first season of basketball too. He is an excellent defense man. I mean excellent. He's tried making a few goals during the games too, but hasn't yet landed one yet. I can't wait to see it when he does!
William is also playing basketball in the next age group up. He has improved dramatically from last year and even made his first score during a game Saturday before last. I cried like he'd won a gold medal in the Olympics. I was so proud! Fortunately Nana and Grandad were there to celebrate with us. It was a great day! My Dad came the game before that and also got to see both boys' skills. We are very blessed to have awesome grandparents around. I am trying to prepare William for being a big kid. One of those skills is learning to take a test. I will be giving him the ITBS test in April both to get him familiar with testing (he doesn't have much "real" testing right now) as well as to gage his progress in what he knows. He's done well with the practice questions and talking him through a problem when he doesn't know the answer has been very interesting. I'm looking forward to seeing the result!
Francis has been assistant coaching William's basketball team and it looks like he will be head coach of the big boys' team come soccer season next month. He also teaches Hannah's AWANA class on Sunday evenings. He's a super dad and I really appreciate all he is and does. I've still = been working mornings teaching online (as well as tutoring Hannah's class on Tuesdays) and lately I've also been working early evenings. With the crisis in China and so many being home-bound, the need for online classes has risen dramatically for the time being. I'm happy to help ease some of the burden. I like providing an outlet for these kids who are bored, scared, or both. But I also look forward to when things can return to normal for them. Until then, Teacher Melissa is on evening and morning duty.
Till next time!
Thursday, February 6, 2020
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
January 15, 2020
2020! I actually had to erase the year in the title to fix it. I haven't written since Christmas, and honestly there is no way to cover all that ground. I'll try to give highlights. Christmas did not go as expected. We headed to Dallas on that Friday and had a great celebration with my family on Saturday. We made cookies, sang songs, had delicious food (and I mean amazing!), watched Christmas movies, had a little service and opened gifts. It was a very sweet time. By Saturday evening it was apparent that Robert didn't feel well and so on Sunday he and I stayed at my parents while everyone went to church (except Dani and Kevin who left to be with his family for Christmas). Saturday we also got word that my in-law's were sick and that my mother-in-law tested flu positive. We were planning to move over to my in-laws' house on Monday, so this put a large kink in our plans.
Robert was feeling much better by Sunday evening, so Monday and Tuesday (Christmas eve) we stayed at my parents and did some fun things around town. As Christian's kids had already opened all their gifts (which wouldn't have mattered if we had been at my in-laws), we got a couple of gifts for each kid so they all had something to open on Christmas Eve. I actually really enjoyed each kid opening two presents, because it meant they appreciated each gift and played sweetly with one another. It was a sweet memory.
Christmas Day we had breakfast with Francis's parents at IHOP and then went back to video skype with Cyndy and her family. We all opened presents via webcam. It wasn't the same, but it was necessary to keep baby Jackson safe. It was still much better than nothing! After presents, Fancis didn't look right. We got back to my parents' house, and rather than packing up the car and heading home, Francis took a 2 hour nap. When he awoke, we packed up the car. He told me he didn't feel up to driving. I knew something was very wrong. I drove us home that evening, and for the next 3 days, Francis was in bed sleeping. Saturday I finally woke him and told him he needed to go to urgent care or the emergency room. He had lot a lot of weight from not eating and his oxygen was low. He was diagnosed with pneumonia. After antibiotics and breathing treatments, he began the road to recovery. This led us into the New Year.
New Year's Eve, Francis finally felt up to leaving the house, so we went over to the Williams for food, games, and even some fireworks. The kids had a blast and it was SO nice to be around other people again. On New Year's day, I took the morning off of work and slept in. It was nice! We watched the parade, took down Christmas decorations and had a delicious fondue dinner and dessert. It's hard word but oh so good!!!
January we have had a few play dates (both at our house and other places). I've been working to try to spend time and invest in other people. I know it is worth it, and now that I am finally exiting the "baby fog" of the past 8+ years, I finally feel like it is doable. If you want to have a playdate, let me know! Everything either has started back up or is starting up in the coming week. I've taken over tutoring Hannah's CC class. We've had 2 weeks of CC so far this semester. This makes Tuesdays a little nuts, but it's a good nuts. Yesterday I taught 3 classes in China, got everyone ready to go, taught Hannah's class at CC, came home and did some prep, made dinner, had dinner and then taught two more classes in China before bed. I feel asleep tired, but genuinely happy.
What else? Andrew has become more of a kid/little person in the last couple of weeks. He understands most things I say and will actually wait for a moment when I say "wait." He sets the table for me before meals without being asked (he's 18 months old so it's mostly randomly sticking utensils on the table everywhere). He asks for things he wants and I even get a signed "please" most of the time. He finds his shoes when it's time to go and helps me put on his hat. I am overjoyed that he is finally understanding. He still has his own opinions about everything, but we are getting closer to having a conversation so I can understand him better. I look forward to that day.
Hannah handles being the only girl like a pro. She's gotten to have a few friends over lately, and I am struck by how different girls really are! Robert went to a friend's house and we took the sister of that family (who is Hannah's age) to our house. William spent the time reading while the girls played quietly and even included Andrew in their play. It was amazing. Yesterday we had two friends (both girls, 5 and 1) over. Even with the addition of two kids, things were somehow quieter! Hannah loves her brothers, but I am happy she gets to have girl time occasionally too. I'm trying to be intentional about spending time with her. Currently we are watching the series "Tangled" on Disney+. She loves curling up in my lap as we watch and talk about it. I love my sweet girl!
Robert's reading has exploded. Now William will finish a novel and hand it off to Robert to read next. Robert has also been reading books to Hannah and it's super cute! I am so proud of the kind and thoughtful child he is becoming. He is also eating a ton right now, so it's possible a growth spurt is on the way. He is almost always willing to lend a hand and this week he even helped sort the laundry without being asked! Robert does not like being alone and loves it best when he is playing with a sibling or friend. He's definitely the most extroverted of my kids! You keep making friends everywhere you go, buddy!
William forges ahead as my firstborn. He loves and hates the experience of being first. I have to remind him that he is not the parent (he is very good at remembering the rules), but he is generally pretty responsible too. He saved up all his money and bought a Nintendo Switch right after Christmas. He didn't have enough money for the games so each set of grandparents got him a game and so did we. He has been enjoying the challenge of these new games, and has (mostly) been sharing well with Robert. I am proud he had the disciple to save up birthday, tooth and Christmas money to get such an expensive item. He's mostly completed his 3rd grade school work, so we are finding supplementary items to help him gain more knowledge as help him pursue his interests. He's a smart kid, and I want to help him reach his potential!
That's all I've got time for now! Till next time.
Robert was feeling much better by Sunday evening, so Monday and Tuesday (Christmas eve) we stayed at my parents and did some fun things around town. As Christian's kids had already opened all their gifts (which wouldn't have mattered if we had been at my in-laws), we got a couple of gifts for each kid so they all had something to open on Christmas Eve. I actually really enjoyed each kid opening two presents, because it meant they appreciated each gift and played sweetly with one another. It was a sweet memory.
Christmas Day we had breakfast with Francis's parents at IHOP and then went back to video skype with Cyndy and her family. We all opened presents via webcam. It wasn't the same, but it was necessary to keep baby Jackson safe. It was still much better than nothing! After presents, Fancis didn't look right. We got back to my parents' house, and rather than packing up the car and heading home, Francis took a 2 hour nap. When he awoke, we packed up the car. He told me he didn't feel up to driving. I knew something was very wrong. I drove us home that evening, and for the next 3 days, Francis was in bed sleeping. Saturday I finally woke him and told him he needed to go to urgent care or the emergency room. He had lot a lot of weight from not eating and his oxygen was low. He was diagnosed with pneumonia. After antibiotics and breathing treatments, he began the road to recovery. This led us into the New Year.
New Year's Eve, Francis finally felt up to leaving the house, so we went over to the Williams for food, games, and even some fireworks. The kids had a blast and it was SO nice to be around other people again. On New Year's day, I took the morning off of work and slept in. It was nice! We watched the parade, took down Christmas decorations and had a delicious fondue dinner and dessert. It's hard word but oh so good!!!
January we have had a few play dates (both at our house and other places). I've been working to try to spend time and invest in other people. I know it is worth it, and now that I am finally exiting the "baby fog" of the past 8+ years, I finally feel like it is doable. If you want to have a playdate, let me know! Everything either has started back up or is starting up in the coming week. I've taken over tutoring Hannah's CC class. We've had 2 weeks of CC so far this semester. This makes Tuesdays a little nuts, but it's a good nuts. Yesterday I taught 3 classes in China, got everyone ready to go, taught Hannah's class at CC, came home and did some prep, made dinner, had dinner and then taught two more classes in China before bed. I feel asleep tired, but genuinely happy.
What else? Andrew has become more of a kid/little person in the last couple of weeks. He understands most things I say and will actually wait for a moment when I say "wait." He sets the table for me before meals without being asked (he's 18 months old so it's mostly randomly sticking utensils on the table everywhere). He asks for things he wants and I even get a signed "please" most of the time. He finds his shoes when it's time to go and helps me put on his hat. I am overjoyed that he is finally understanding. He still has his own opinions about everything, but we are getting closer to having a conversation so I can understand him better. I look forward to that day.
Hannah handles being the only girl like a pro. She's gotten to have a few friends over lately, and I am struck by how different girls really are! Robert went to a friend's house and we took the sister of that family (who is Hannah's age) to our house. William spent the time reading while the girls played quietly and even included Andrew in their play. It was amazing. Yesterday we had two friends (both girls, 5 and 1) over. Even with the addition of two kids, things were somehow quieter! Hannah loves her brothers, but I am happy she gets to have girl time occasionally too. I'm trying to be intentional about spending time with her. Currently we are watching the series "Tangled" on Disney+. She loves curling up in my lap as we watch and talk about it. I love my sweet girl!
Robert's reading has exploded. Now William will finish a novel and hand it off to Robert to read next. Robert has also been reading books to Hannah and it's super cute! I am so proud of the kind and thoughtful child he is becoming. He is also eating a ton right now, so it's possible a growth spurt is on the way. He is almost always willing to lend a hand and this week he even helped sort the laundry without being asked! Robert does not like being alone and loves it best when he is playing with a sibling or friend. He's definitely the most extroverted of my kids! You keep making friends everywhere you go, buddy!
William forges ahead as my firstborn. He loves and hates the experience of being first. I have to remind him that he is not the parent (he is very good at remembering the rules), but he is generally pretty responsible too. He saved up all his money and bought a Nintendo Switch right after Christmas. He didn't have enough money for the games so each set of grandparents got him a game and so did we. He has been enjoying the challenge of these new games, and has (mostly) been sharing well with Robert. I am proud he had the disciple to save up birthday, tooth and Christmas money to get such an expensive item. He's mostly completed his 3rd grade school work, so we are finding supplementary items to help him gain more knowledge as help him pursue his interests. He's a smart kid, and I want to help him reach his potential!
That's all I've got time for now! Till next time.
Friday, December 20, 2019
December 20, 2019
It's been equal parts quiet and busy around here. The second week of December was filled with play dates. We decorated cookies, played at parks and attended the science class at Lick Creek Park. It was so fun and pretty relaxing too. After all the fun, I started to feel under the weather. I haven't fully recovered and have been taking it easy. I've been having to take naps in the afternoon to keep up with my kiddos. I'm exhausted. I'm still teaching in the mornings (which I love), or I'd be sleeping in too. I'm so ready to be at 100% again!
Today we head to Dallas for the start of Christmas festivities. We'll spend the weekend with my family and then move over to my in-laws' for Christmas eve and Christmas day. It should be a wonderful time. May you have a Merry Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our savior!
Andrew has been growing by leaps and bounds. He is in to everything, partially because he just has to know everything! He's giving me a run for my money, and I'm trying to remember it's a phase. He is becoming more aware of his surroundings too. This morning when he woke up, he saw all the presents under the tree were missing (they are packed up and ready to go). He checked every inch under the tree before pointing at it in confusion. He has also started to sit an listen to books being read. It's possible I'll have 4 little bookworms soon.
Hannah is doing well. She is in a testing rules phase, but is quickly learning that the reason for rules is mostly her own protection. We've had a few ice packs needed around here lately. She loves Andrew and all babies. She has developed a sweet group of little friends. You ask her who her best is, and she'll rattle off around 20 names before you cut her off. She likes most everyone, which makes her very likable. She's got down letters and their sounds and will point them out around town. It's so fun to see her mind at work!
Robert had taken off suddenly with reading. He is reading novels now (like over 200 pages!). This just started in the past couple of weeks. He's reading over my shoulder currently and nodding at what I'm typing. I'm so proud of you, Robert! "I can read that whole thing!" he just said. Robert is also proud to announce that he can tell time and add and subtract even the biggest numbers (mostly in his head!). He's also still sweet as sugar with a "mini-hulk" streak. I think I'll keep him.
William is still an avid reader. He checked out 6 novels yesterday from the library and read them all before dinner. He and Robert have been listening to "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" at night. Books are an essential part of our house. William is working on his French also and with him wrapping up part of his schoolwork (already?!?), we are going to devote more time to it. If I've learned anything from teaching children in China English, it's that hard work and practice pay off! William is beginning to hear and recognize French with more consistency, and this can only help his language production. I'm so proud of him too!
Francis and I are doing well. Not much to report from us. Francis is the assistant coach for William's basketball team this year and games for both big boys begin in January. I managed to get the bulk of Christmas shopping done and wrapped before I started feeling bad, so I've been able to relax a bit in that department. The only exception was the three hours I spent helping the kids wrap the gifts they bought for their siblings and cousins. My whole body hurt by the end, but the kids learned how to wrap packages!
That's it for now! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Today we head to Dallas for the start of Christmas festivities. We'll spend the weekend with my family and then move over to my in-laws' for Christmas eve and Christmas day. It should be a wonderful time. May you have a Merry Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our savior!
Andrew has been growing by leaps and bounds. He is in to everything, partially because he just has to know everything! He's giving me a run for my money, and I'm trying to remember it's a phase. He is becoming more aware of his surroundings too. This morning when he woke up, he saw all the presents under the tree were missing (they are packed up and ready to go). He checked every inch under the tree before pointing at it in confusion. He has also started to sit an listen to books being read. It's possible I'll have 4 little bookworms soon.
Hannah is doing well. She is in a testing rules phase, but is quickly learning that the reason for rules is mostly her own protection. We've had a few ice packs needed around here lately. She loves Andrew and all babies. She has developed a sweet group of little friends. You ask her who her best is, and she'll rattle off around 20 names before you cut her off. She likes most everyone, which makes her very likable. She's got down letters and their sounds and will point them out around town. It's so fun to see her mind at work!
Robert had taken off suddenly with reading. He is reading novels now (like over 200 pages!). This just started in the past couple of weeks. He's reading over my shoulder currently and nodding at what I'm typing. I'm so proud of you, Robert! "I can read that whole thing!" he just said. Robert is also proud to announce that he can tell time and add and subtract even the biggest numbers (mostly in his head!). He's also still sweet as sugar with a "mini-hulk" streak. I think I'll keep him.
William is still an avid reader. He checked out 6 novels yesterday from the library and read them all before dinner. He and Robert have been listening to "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" at night. Books are an essential part of our house. William is working on his French also and with him wrapping up part of his schoolwork (already?!?), we are going to devote more time to it. If I've learned anything from teaching children in China English, it's that hard work and practice pay off! William is beginning to hear and recognize French with more consistency, and this can only help his language production. I'm so proud of him too!
Francis and I are doing well. Not much to report from us. Francis is the assistant coach for William's basketball team this year and games for both big boys begin in January. I managed to get the bulk of Christmas shopping done and wrapped before I started feeling bad, so I've been able to relax a bit in that department. The only exception was the three hours I spent helping the kids wrap the gifts they bought for their siblings and cousins. My whole body hurt by the end, but the kids learned how to wrap packages!
That's it for now! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 5, 2019
December 5, 2019
The last 3 weeks have been crazy exciting. Disney, Thanksgiving and Christmas activities have kept us busy.
We left for Disney the Friday before my birthday. Francis and I drove cross country overnight with all the kids in the car. It actually wasn't that bad! I took the middle 5 hour shift (middle of the night) and found it relaxing and quiet. I never just get time to think and pray, so I enjoyed driving for, like, the first time ever. Francis did the evening and morning driving and after breakfast, we arrived at Disney Springs. We shopped, relaxed and had lunch at Francis's favorite place (Wolfgang Puck Express) before our room was ready. We went to the room and *tried* to nap, but the kids were wired so we gave up. We ended up taking the bus to Magic Kingdom and then the monorail over to the Grand Floridian. It is beautiful there at Christmas time and they had their huge Gingerbread house up in the lobby. It was super cold outside (in the low 40s), but the kids were undeterred so we took the water taxi back to Magic Kingdom. Brrrr. We made it back in time for Francis to go get dinner and all of us to have an early bed time. It was the perfect way to ease us into a fun filled week!
Sunday we got up early and made it for extra magic hours at Hollywood Studios. We rode the new Skyliner, and I am sold. It is the best way to travel and so fast! We did Toy Story land (after walking through Star Wars Land...which was nuts). We found out Andrew is indeed 32 inches tall and was able to ride the new Alien Saucers. The boys did the Jedi Training and rode all of the intense rides with either Francis or me. Hannah, Andrew and I went to the Little Mermaid show and rode the more tame rides an additional time when the opportunity allowed. We had dinner at the Sci Fi Drive in for "Hannah's Birthday", which the kids really seemed to enjoy. Toward the end of the day, we ventured back into Star Wars land. It was still crowded, but less so. Francis rode the new Smugglers Run alone, and then the boys and I rode it together. It's a cool ride! The boys liked being gunners, and my personal favorite spot is the pilot. We finished off the first night in the parks with Fantasmic. It was a cold but great day!
Monday we headed over to Magic Kingdom. We made the mistake of trying to do the Jingle Cruise, but thanks to Fast Passes, the rest of our day was not nearly so stressful. Hannah met Cinderella, we rode all but maybe 7 of the rides (a few by choice), and had great timing when it came to the parade. that night we watched Anna and Elsa light up the castle. It was magical. We had dinner at the Crystal Palace for "Andrew's birthday" and got to add signatures to our book from Pooh and friends. We got pictures of ourselves in front of the castle and watched the fireworks show. I give Disney serious credit for giving compelling shows with lights and fireworks. It's amazing. After the show, extra magic hours allowed the big boys to ride some bonus rides while Hannah and Andrew slept in the stroller. William and I (and Robert the second time) managed to ride Space Mountain twice in a row right before park close. It was great! I am very proud of Robert. He went from not liking roller coasters to loving them in the span of one day!
Tuesday we did Epcot. We rushed to ride Frozen when it opened, and Hannah, Andrew and I rode it twice before the line got too long. The boys went to ride Test Track during our second ride. We met up and all but Andrew rode my favorite ride: Soarin! We rode all the ride, went home for a rest and swim in the mid-afternoon and still had time for dinner at Coral Reef (for "Robert's birthday") before the fireworks show. We walked over 15 miles (The kids took turns in the strollers), but it was still somehow both fun and relaxing.
Wednesday was Animal Kingdom. We were there at park opening (as we were every day). We got in line for Navii river Journey first thing and rode it. Then we rode rides, got wet (on the river rapids...thanks William and Hannah), and saw a ton of Animals. Before we knew it, my whole family arrived! That's right! My parents, Danielle, Kevin, Christian, Chad, and my niece and Nephews Alexandra, Issac, Timothy and Gideon all joined us at Disney World for my birthday. We watched the Lion King show, had an amazing dinner at Tucker House (for "William's birthday"), and had VIP seating for the Rivers of Light show. It gets better. We finished off the day with Fast Passes to Flight of Passage in Avatar. It is quite possibly my new favorite ride. The boys got to ride it twice, and I'm a tad jealous still. The ones who rode it on the first past pass went and rode the river journey before heading home. It was a fantastic day and I went home overflowing with excitement.
Thursday was the big twins' (Issac and Alexandra) real birthday. We started off the day in Magic kingdom and rode Buzz Lightyear a couple of times before riding most of the rest of the rides in Tomorrowland. We had a group picture with Cinderella and after a few rides (including Ariel), we had lunch at the Beast's Castle. It wasn't exactly as I envisioned (busy and we ended up in the beasts' room), but we got a free fast pass because my food took so long. We rode one of Hannah's favorite rides next: the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. The Drakes headed back for a nap, and after riding a few more rides, the rest of us headed over to EPCOT. We rode more rides (Hello soarin!) and had a delicious dinner with the Princesses at Akershus. We were the last people at the restaurant (waiting on our bill) and almost didn't make it back on the Skyliner. whew!
Friday was my birthday (cue trumpets and confetti). It did not begin as planned. Francis had to go get medication for Andrew who was having trouble breathing, so I had to take all 3 other kids to Magic Kingdom by myself. Hannah had an appointment at Bibbity Bobbity Boutique, but we squeezed in a couple of rides beforehand. The Boutique was amazing and totally worth the price. Hannah had her hair, make-up and nails done. They made a big fuss and announced when Princess Hannah was done. She went and had professional photos done afterward in her Cinderella gown. It was a once in a lifetime experience that she will not soon forget. Francis and Andrew met up with us shortly after so we could ride all of the kids favorite Magic Kingdom rides one last time. The boys wanted Space Mountain (we had already done Buzz) and Hannah wanted Splash mountain (we had already done 7 Dwarfs). We had a spectacular lunch in Cinderella's Castle where we met more princesses, got some wands and swords, and ate delicious food. We met up with my family at Hollywood Studios afterward. We rode all the rides we missed the first time (William loved Rockin Roller Coaster). We had dinner at the outpost in Star Wars land. The food was great, the ambiance very special, and the company was unparalleled. In that moment of getting presents on the edge of the Galaxy, I could not have been happier. I wish I could put in words how much it meant to have all my family there at the most magical place on earth on my birthday. Thank you, family!!!! We rode Smuggler's run and Slinky Dog Dash in groups. The big boys and I snuck in a ride on Toy Story Mania before just barely making it to Fantasmic in time. I couldn't have asked for anything more.
Our last day was at EPCOT. We got up early once again, packed up our room, and took the Skyliner over to the park. We rushed and were able to quickly ride Frozen. All 16 of us just fit in one boat together! We took turns riding test track, soarin, and the land. We all rode Nemo together and spent a short time in the aquarium. All too soon, it was time to say goodbye to my family. Some headed back to the hotel and others headed over to Magic Kingdom. The kids chose one last ride before we left. The boys chose test track and Hannah chose Frozen (complete with getting Anna and Elsa's signatures). We were in luck that it was the last night of the food and wine festival, because we were able to use our remaining snack credits from our meal plan to have a delicious dinner of poutine, filet mingnon, braised beef, and some desserts. It was so good and a perfect end to our trip. We rode the Skyliner back to the hotel and climbed in our car. The drive back home was not as exciting, but we made it back by lunch on Sunday. I'd go back tomorrow if someone offered!
The week of Thanksgiving was spent mostly recuperating and resetting. It was nice to have a little down time. Thanksgiving day we went to Cyndy and Chris's house for a Phillips/Boerger Thanksgiving dinner. It was good food, good company, and the kids had fun with Abby and Jackson. Saturday, my in-laws, and the Boergers came up to our neck of the woods and we went to Santa's Wonderland. We've never been before (even though it's literally 5 minutes from our house), but it was so fun! We met Santa, jumped, rode a train, did a snow hill, played in snow and had hot chocolate. William and Robert also did the mechanical bull ride. My favorite part was the hay ride. We got to see thousands of lights in multiple displays ending in a light display about the life of Jesus. It was a very long hayride, but the second we got off, I was ready to do it over again. The lights were that cool! We hope to go again sometime. Everyone spent the night in town, so Saturday morning we had breakfast at Sweet Paris (crepes) and then went to Urban Air Trampoline Park. Christ, Francis and my father-in-law decided to jump with the kids. It was all fun and games until it was time to go and Francis took one last huge jump. He stepped wrong and fractured his foot. We already had a boot and crutches, so we swung by and got them. After an x-ray, it looks like he'll be in a boot for the next 3-6 weeks. At least it happened after Disney! We still made it to see Frozen II that afternoon. Cute movie!
This week we had our last CC of the semester and the accompanying Christmas party. The kids gave their tutors gifts and got some things too. Wednesday we went to Lick Creek homeschool days and the kids participated in an egg drop challenge. Their contraption was a bit unorthodox (straws sticking out everywhere), but it did the trick and the egg survived all three drops. Today was our last Bible Study before the new year. I am looking forward to a quieter week next week, but we'll see!
Till next time!
We left for Disney the Friday before my birthday. Francis and I drove cross country overnight with all the kids in the car. It actually wasn't that bad! I took the middle 5 hour shift (middle of the night) and found it relaxing and quiet. I never just get time to think and pray, so I enjoyed driving for, like, the first time ever. Francis did the evening and morning driving and after breakfast, we arrived at Disney Springs. We shopped, relaxed and had lunch at Francis's favorite place (Wolfgang Puck Express) before our room was ready. We went to the room and *tried* to nap, but the kids were wired so we gave up. We ended up taking the bus to Magic Kingdom and then the monorail over to the Grand Floridian. It is beautiful there at Christmas time and they had their huge Gingerbread house up in the lobby. It was super cold outside (in the low 40s), but the kids were undeterred so we took the water taxi back to Magic Kingdom. Brrrr. We made it back in time for Francis to go get dinner and all of us to have an early bed time. It was the perfect way to ease us into a fun filled week!
Sunday we got up early and made it for extra magic hours at Hollywood Studios. We rode the new Skyliner, and I am sold. It is the best way to travel and so fast! We did Toy Story land (after walking through Star Wars Land...which was nuts). We found out Andrew is indeed 32 inches tall and was able to ride the new Alien Saucers. The boys did the Jedi Training and rode all of the intense rides with either Francis or me. Hannah, Andrew and I went to the Little Mermaid show and rode the more tame rides an additional time when the opportunity allowed. We had dinner at the Sci Fi Drive in for "Hannah's Birthday", which the kids really seemed to enjoy. Toward the end of the day, we ventured back into Star Wars land. It was still crowded, but less so. Francis rode the new Smugglers Run alone, and then the boys and I rode it together. It's a cool ride! The boys liked being gunners, and my personal favorite spot is the pilot. We finished off the first night in the parks with Fantasmic. It was a cold but great day!
Monday we headed over to Magic Kingdom. We made the mistake of trying to do the Jingle Cruise, but thanks to Fast Passes, the rest of our day was not nearly so stressful. Hannah met Cinderella, we rode all but maybe 7 of the rides (a few by choice), and had great timing when it came to the parade. that night we watched Anna and Elsa light up the castle. It was magical. We had dinner at the Crystal Palace for "Andrew's birthday" and got to add signatures to our book from Pooh and friends. We got pictures of ourselves in front of the castle and watched the fireworks show. I give Disney serious credit for giving compelling shows with lights and fireworks. It's amazing. After the show, extra magic hours allowed the big boys to ride some bonus rides while Hannah and Andrew slept in the stroller. William and I (and Robert the second time) managed to ride Space Mountain twice in a row right before park close. It was great! I am very proud of Robert. He went from not liking roller coasters to loving them in the span of one day!
Tuesday we did Epcot. We rushed to ride Frozen when it opened, and Hannah, Andrew and I rode it twice before the line got too long. The boys went to ride Test Track during our second ride. We met up and all but Andrew rode my favorite ride: Soarin! We rode all the ride, went home for a rest and swim in the mid-afternoon and still had time for dinner at Coral Reef (for "Robert's birthday") before the fireworks show. We walked over 15 miles (The kids took turns in the strollers), but it was still somehow both fun and relaxing.
Wednesday was Animal Kingdom. We were there at park opening (as we were every day). We got in line for Navii river Journey first thing and rode it. Then we rode rides, got wet (on the river rapids...thanks William and Hannah), and saw a ton of Animals. Before we knew it, my whole family arrived! That's right! My parents, Danielle, Kevin, Christian, Chad, and my niece and Nephews Alexandra, Issac, Timothy and Gideon all joined us at Disney World for my birthday. We watched the Lion King show, had an amazing dinner at Tucker House (for "William's birthday"), and had VIP seating for the Rivers of Light show. It gets better. We finished off the day with Fast Passes to Flight of Passage in Avatar. It is quite possibly my new favorite ride. The boys got to ride it twice, and I'm a tad jealous still. The ones who rode it on the first past pass went and rode the river journey before heading home. It was a fantastic day and I went home overflowing with excitement.
Thursday was the big twins' (Issac and Alexandra) real birthday. We started off the day in Magic kingdom and rode Buzz Lightyear a couple of times before riding most of the rest of the rides in Tomorrowland. We had a group picture with Cinderella and after a few rides (including Ariel), we had lunch at the Beast's Castle. It wasn't exactly as I envisioned (busy and we ended up in the beasts' room), but we got a free fast pass because my food took so long. We rode one of Hannah's favorite rides next: the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. The Drakes headed back for a nap, and after riding a few more rides, the rest of us headed over to EPCOT. We rode more rides (Hello soarin!) and had a delicious dinner with the Princesses at Akershus. We were the last people at the restaurant (waiting on our bill) and almost didn't make it back on the Skyliner. whew!
Friday was my birthday (cue trumpets and confetti). It did not begin as planned. Francis had to go get medication for Andrew who was having trouble breathing, so I had to take all 3 other kids to Magic Kingdom by myself. Hannah had an appointment at Bibbity Bobbity Boutique, but we squeezed in a couple of rides beforehand. The Boutique was amazing and totally worth the price. Hannah had her hair, make-up and nails done. They made a big fuss and announced when Princess Hannah was done. She went and had professional photos done afterward in her Cinderella gown. It was a once in a lifetime experience that she will not soon forget. Francis and Andrew met up with us shortly after so we could ride all of the kids favorite Magic Kingdom rides one last time. The boys wanted Space Mountain (we had already done Buzz) and Hannah wanted Splash mountain (we had already done 7 Dwarfs). We had a spectacular lunch in Cinderella's Castle where we met more princesses, got some wands and swords, and ate delicious food. We met up with my family at Hollywood Studios afterward. We rode all the rides we missed the first time (William loved Rockin Roller Coaster). We had dinner at the outpost in Star Wars land. The food was great, the ambiance very special, and the company was unparalleled. In that moment of getting presents on the edge of the Galaxy, I could not have been happier. I wish I could put in words how much it meant to have all my family there at the most magical place on earth on my birthday. Thank you, family!!!! We rode Smuggler's run and Slinky Dog Dash in groups. The big boys and I snuck in a ride on Toy Story Mania before just barely making it to Fantasmic in time. I couldn't have asked for anything more.
Our last day was at EPCOT. We got up early once again, packed up our room, and took the Skyliner over to the park. We rushed and were able to quickly ride Frozen. All 16 of us just fit in one boat together! We took turns riding test track, soarin, and the land. We all rode Nemo together and spent a short time in the aquarium. All too soon, it was time to say goodbye to my family. Some headed back to the hotel and others headed over to Magic Kingdom. The kids chose one last ride before we left. The boys chose test track and Hannah chose Frozen (complete with getting Anna and Elsa's signatures). We were in luck that it was the last night of the food and wine festival, because we were able to use our remaining snack credits from our meal plan to have a delicious dinner of poutine, filet mingnon, braised beef, and some desserts. It was so good and a perfect end to our trip. We rode the Skyliner back to the hotel and climbed in our car. The drive back home was not as exciting, but we made it back by lunch on Sunday. I'd go back tomorrow if someone offered!
The week of Thanksgiving was spent mostly recuperating and resetting. It was nice to have a little down time. Thanksgiving day we went to Cyndy and Chris's house for a Phillips/Boerger Thanksgiving dinner. It was good food, good company, and the kids had fun with Abby and Jackson. Saturday, my in-laws, and the Boergers came up to our neck of the woods and we went to Santa's Wonderland. We've never been before (even though it's literally 5 minutes from our house), but it was so fun! We met Santa, jumped, rode a train, did a snow hill, played in snow and had hot chocolate. William and Robert also did the mechanical bull ride. My favorite part was the hay ride. We got to see thousands of lights in multiple displays ending in a light display about the life of Jesus. It was a very long hayride, but the second we got off, I was ready to do it over again. The lights were that cool! We hope to go again sometime. Everyone spent the night in town, so Saturday morning we had breakfast at Sweet Paris (crepes) and then went to Urban Air Trampoline Park. Christ, Francis and my father-in-law decided to jump with the kids. It was all fun and games until it was time to go and Francis took one last huge jump. He stepped wrong and fractured his foot. We already had a boot and crutches, so we swung by and got them. After an x-ray, it looks like he'll be in a boot for the next 3-6 weeks. At least it happened after Disney! We still made it to see Frozen II that afternoon. Cute movie!
This week we had our last CC of the semester and the accompanying Christmas party. The kids gave their tutors gifts and got some things too. Wednesday we went to Lick Creek homeschool days and the kids participated in an egg drop challenge. Their contraption was a bit unorthodox (straws sticking out everywhere), but it did the trick and the egg survived all three drops. Today was our last Bible Study before the new year. I am looking forward to a quieter week next week, but we'll see!
Till next time!
Thursday, November 14, 2019
November 14, 2019
Friday night William went to his first sleep over and the rest of the kids went to parents' night out. Francis and I had food at a Pho place and got to talk and laugh together. Saturday, my in-laws came in town for the boys' last football game (we won!) and the kids played on inflatables and had pizza and snow cones. William got the character award and Robert got the Effort award. I'm proud of my boys! Francis had off Monday so we did a bunch of things around the house that needed doing and spent the morning playing as a family at a nearby park. I'm so blessed that Francis loves to just hang out with us. I know we can be a lot, but he just loves us and rolls with it. Love you, honey!
Yesterday was a fun day. Despite the cold, we went out to Newman's castle with our CC group. the kids learned about castles and pretended to be knights in a siege. They hunted dragons, and got a dragon tattoo for finding them all. "King William" released the trebuchet and was locked in the dungeon. It was a good day full of adventure.
This week has been a week of preparation. I've been packing and planning. I have confirmed the house sitter and made sure that I'm not teaching. Why? We are going on VACATION! Tomorrow at this time we will be in the car heading for Disney World. It will be a long trip, but I'm hoping we are able to keep the destination in mind. My birthday is next week and I will spend it with family looking at Cinderella's castle. I can not wait.
The kids are great and so ready to go! I will give a report when we get back. Till nest time!
Yesterday was a fun day. Despite the cold, we went out to Newman's castle with our CC group. the kids learned about castles and pretended to be knights in a siege. They hunted dragons, and got a dragon tattoo for finding them all. "King William" released the trebuchet and was locked in the dungeon. It was a good day full of adventure.
This week has been a week of preparation. I've been packing and planning. I have confirmed the house sitter and made sure that I'm not teaching. Why? We are going on VACATION! Tomorrow at this time we will be in the car heading for Disney World. It will be a long trip, but I'm hoping we are able to keep the destination in mind. My birthday is next week and I will spend it with family looking at Cinderella's castle. I can not wait.
The kids are great and so ready to go! I will give a report when we get back. Till nest time!
Wednesday, November 6, 2019
November 6, 2019
Time flies by in this season of life, but I want to drop in and give a brief update. We are still doing CC, Bible Study, Science classes at Lick Creek park and going to the library. Things are chugging along. I want to mention a few highlights.
Francis's birthday was very special. We got to go hear 4 astronauts speak with our CC group on A&M campus. Afterward, we met Francis on campus and had lunch with him in the MSC. It was fun getting to have a birthday lunch with him for once and we'd never eaten on campus before. When I got home we made pineapple upside down cake and lasagna (both requests of the birthday boy). The kids always help make Francis's cake. It's one of my favorite traditions. everything was delicious and we even made it to church on time that evening! We took Francis to Casa do Brasil for a second birthday dinner that Friday. The kids love the all you can eat meat, and the food is so very good. Everyone left full and happy.
Saturday before last my parents came into town. My dad went with Francis, Robert, Hannah and Andrew to a trampoline park and my mom, William and I went to the A&M game. We got to meet Chancellor Sharp, Governor Abbott, some of the Bush family and many other state representatives. We went to the chancellor's tailgate and sat in the chancellor's box for the game. William loved the food (he ate at least 5 plates full) and cheered enthusiastically with the crowd. It was a great game. William received a special challenge coin from the chancellor saying to bring the coin and excellent grades to the admissions office upon high school graduation. He held it proudly all day and showed anyone who would look. After the game we were escorted to a special area and got to meet one of the players. It was so cool!
We did all of the candy gathering activities this year including "Wereworlf" creek park, Night at the Museum, Fall fest at our church and a party at a friend's house. The kids went trick or treating for the first time ever and really liked it. It helped that they were doing it with friends, but even when we got home, they wanted to do a few houses in our neighborhood (it was still pretty early). It was a fun evening for Jasmine, two Nexo knights and an elephant.
Andrew got his first haircut this Saturday. He's looking so big! He wasn't a fan of getting it cut but gave the stink eye instead of crying. He did great. I took the big boys on dates later in the day to get their hair cut and go shopping for different things we need. I have a funny picture of William holding an icee and sitting in the massage chair at Kohl's. He's got a rough life. Robert had fun perusing the toy section at Target with me. He loves riding in the top of the cart and he never gets to. It was a fun day all around.
Francis taught our science class this week for CC. The lesson was on rocket and he was asked to present. He did a great job teaching both the older and younger groups and finished his lesson by shooting off a model rocket. The kids were talking about it for the rest of the day!
Today the kids had their dentist appointments. No cavities! We also have been seriously beginning to prepare for our upcoming vacation. We are going to Disney World for my birthday! My whole family is coming. It will be a celebration to remember. We are driving so if you think of us, pray for us!
Tilll next time!
Francis's birthday was very special. We got to go hear 4 astronauts speak with our CC group on A&M campus. Afterward, we met Francis on campus and had lunch with him in the MSC. It was fun getting to have a birthday lunch with him for once and we'd never eaten on campus before. When I got home we made pineapple upside down cake and lasagna (both requests of the birthday boy). The kids always help make Francis's cake. It's one of my favorite traditions. everything was delicious and we even made it to church on time that evening! We took Francis to Casa do Brasil for a second birthday dinner that Friday. The kids love the all you can eat meat, and the food is so very good. Everyone left full and happy.
Saturday before last my parents came into town. My dad went with Francis, Robert, Hannah and Andrew to a trampoline park and my mom, William and I went to the A&M game. We got to meet Chancellor Sharp, Governor Abbott, some of the Bush family and many other state representatives. We went to the chancellor's tailgate and sat in the chancellor's box for the game. William loved the food (he ate at least 5 plates full) and cheered enthusiastically with the crowd. It was a great game. William received a special challenge coin from the chancellor saying to bring the coin and excellent grades to the admissions office upon high school graduation. He held it proudly all day and showed anyone who would look. After the game we were escorted to a special area and got to meet one of the players. It was so cool!
We did all of the candy gathering activities this year including "Wereworlf" creek park, Night at the Museum, Fall fest at our church and a party at a friend's house. The kids went trick or treating for the first time ever and really liked it. It helped that they were doing it with friends, but even when we got home, they wanted to do a few houses in our neighborhood (it was still pretty early). It was a fun evening for Jasmine, two Nexo knights and an elephant.
Andrew got his first haircut this Saturday. He's looking so big! He wasn't a fan of getting it cut but gave the stink eye instead of crying. He did great. I took the big boys on dates later in the day to get their hair cut and go shopping for different things we need. I have a funny picture of William holding an icee and sitting in the massage chair at Kohl's. He's got a rough life. Robert had fun perusing the toy section at Target with me. He loves riding in the top of the cart and he never gets to. It was a fun day all around.
Francis taught our science class this week for CC. The lesson was on rocket and he was asked to present. He did a great job teaching both the older and younger groups and finished his lesson by shooting off a model rocket. The kids were talking about it for the rest of the day!
Today the kids had their dentist appointments. No cavities! We also have been seriously beginning to prepare for our upcoming vacation. We are going to Disney World for my birthday! My whole family is coming. It will be a celebration to remember. We are driving so if you think of us, pray for us!
Tilll next time!
Thursday, October 17, 2019
October 15, 2019
Life never stops around here. The last 3 weeks are no exception. We've had CC, bible Study, Library, science classes at Lick Creek Park, football practice and games. ice skating lessons, a trip to Dallas, trip to Houston, and a field trip. And that's just a few things. I'm still teaching for VIPKid and have a pretty steady schedule of regulars now. It is fun to get a peek into someone else's life and family across the world, and I'm honored that they let me in.
Weekend before last, the kids and I went to Dallas to go to the State Fair of Texas. Friday the kids and I got to go with Christian and her kids to the Dallas Zoo. WE had a great tine and it was a good practice for walking at Disney. We got to celebrate my mom's birthday with almost the whole family. The kids got some cousin time, were able to swim at my in-laws' and my parents' houses, and had a blast. Sunday we went to the fair with my in-law's and my family. The kids loved the animals, the fireworks and the shows. My personal favorite was the return of the bird show! We had front row seats. Hannah, Issac and Alexandra even got to hold the perch for the first bird to land on. It was so fun! Lest you think we abandoned Francis, he actually likes being home alone for a weekend to recharge. He's an introvert and I know we overwhelm him often, haha. He got to enjoy some peace and quiet. I'm not sure what that's like but it sounds delightful!
Last weekend Francis and my mother went to the ground breaking for Bush Combat Development Complex and then on to the A&M game. Francis met all sorts of important people including members of the Bush family. It was a good day for him. Francis's parents, my dad, the kids and I went to William and Robert's (very cold) football game. My in-law's, the kids and I went on to Houston. We had lunch with the Boergers and then got to watch my niece Abby play volleyball. We all then went to Blessington Farms for the pumkin patch. There was so much to do and the kids love doing it all! Midafternoon, I started feeling a tightness in my chest. I tried to ignore it, but by the time we left and started to head to dinner, my head was hurting and it felt like someone was sitting on my chest. Although I have fall asthma, I haven't felt like this in years. My gracious mother-in-law drove me all the way home where I was able to use a nebulizer and get things under control. I am so thankful for her! This week I've been *trying* to take it easy so I don't have another flare up. I'm secretly hoping for a freeze to kill off whatever blooms this time of year and causes me pain. Fall can be rough!
Yesterday was Francis's birthday! The kids and I had a field trip to A&M to hear 3 astronauts talk about their experiences in space. It was fascinating! Afterwards we met Francis on campus and had lunch with him. We never get to see him at lunch during the week, so this was super special. I spent the afternoon with the kids making an pineapple upside down cake and lasagna. My little helpers were excellent and the food came out delicious. We also managed to squeeze in Wednesday night church between all the festivities. Happy birthday, Francis!
We are about to head out to Bible Study so I should end here. I will say the kids are all growing and changing before my eyes. Andrew in particular has turned into a kid and is no longer a baby. He plays with his siblings, understand simple command and even shares...well...once in a while. I am working with him on baby sign language because he really wants to tell me things. He's getting so big and running everywhere!
Till next time!
Weekend before last, the kids and I went to Dallas to go to the State Fair of Texas. Friday the kids and I got to go with Christian and her kids to the Dallas Zoo. WE had a great tine and it was a good practice for walking at Disney. We got to celebrate my mom's birthday with almost the whole family. The kids got some cousin time, were able to swim at my in-laws' and my parents' houses, and had a blast. Sunday we went to the fair with my in-law's and my family. The kids loved the animals, the fireworks and the shows. My personal favorite was the return of the bird show! We had front row seats. Hannah, Issac and Alexandra even got to hold the perch for the first bird to land on. It was so fun! Lest you think we abandoned Francis, he actually likes being home alone for a weekend to recharge. He's an introvert and I know we overwhelm him often, haha. He got to enjoy some peace and quiet. I'm not sure what that's like but it sounds delightful!
Last weekend Francis and my mother went to the ground breaking for Bush Combat Development Complex and then on to the A&M game. Francis met all sorts of important people including members of the Bush family. It was a good day for him. Francis's parents, my dad, the kids and I went to William and Robert's (very cold) football game. My in-law's, the kids and I went on to Houston. We had lunch with the Boergers and then got to watch my niece Abby play volleyball. We all then went to Blessington Farms for the pumkin patch. There was so much to do and the kids love doing it all! Midafternoon, I started feeling a tightness in my chest. I tried to ignore it, but by the time we left and started to head to dinner, my head was hurting and it felt like someone was sitting on my chest. Although I have fall asthma, I haven't felt like this in years. My gracious mother-in-law drove me all the way home where I was able to use a nebulizer and get things under control. I am so thankful for her! This week I've been *trying* to take it easy so I don't have another flare up. I'm secretly hoping for a freeze to kill off whatever blooms this time of year and causes me pain. Fall can be rough!
Yesterday was Francis's birthday! The kids and I had a field trip to A&M to hear 3 astronauts talk about their experiences in space. It was fascinating! Afterwards we met Francis on campus and had lunch with him. We never get to see him at lunch during the week, so this was super special. I spent the afternoon with the kids making an pineapple upside down cake and lasagna. My little helpers were excellent and the food came out delicious. We also managed to squeeze in Wednesday night church between all the festivities. Happy birthday, Francis!
We are about to head out to Bible Study so I should end here. I will say the kids are all growing and changing before my eyes. Andrew in particular has turned into a kid and is no longer a baby. He plays with his siblings, understand simple command and even shares...well...once in a while. I am working with him on baby sign language because he really wants to tell me things. He's getting so big and running everywhere!
Till next time!
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