It's been a crazy busy week and a half. We've done so much I don't even know where to begin!
I guess I will start with Thursday evening before last. Our MOMs group hosted a special dinner (with childcare!) so Francis and I had a catered dinner at church that evening. The speaker was good and the company delightful. The kids had finished their antibiotics by then and are doing great so fun was had by all.
Friday was very special. After a day of playgroup and school, we had a very special evening. Chick-fil-a was hosting a "Daddy Daughter Date Night" complete with table side service, live music, princesses that came to the table, special crafts and activities and a special dessert. Hannah picked out her clothes and Francis dressed up too. They had a great time. Hannah loved the one on one daddy time (who can blame her? He's awesome!). Meanwhile back at the ranch, the boys decided they needed to take me out on a date. Where did they choose? Chuck E Cheese of course! They took their job very seriously though. They opened the door for me, used all of their manners and stayed with me as we went about and did the games. It was so special to be with just them and I wouldn't have traded that time for anything.
Saturday Francis and I did a swap. I took Hannah shopping for the afternoon and Francis took the boys ice skating. Both were fruitful times. Francis had a great time honing the boys' skills that they are learning Tuesday evenings. I had fun with Hannah, who is a great shopper. She looks carefully through everything and picks out what she wants (though she doesn't usually get to have it). She walked most of the way and was beaming from ear to ear through the entire mall. I can tell this is the beginning of a beautiful shopping relationship with my little girlie.
Sunday was church and AWANAS. Monday morning we did our usually grocery store shopping and school. But Monday evening we decided to go out to the open house of FUNgineering. It was great. William and Robert both built robots based on instructions and then were able to code the robots to perform simple tasks. Beyond that, they had a robot arena in a different room where pre-made robots could be customized and then battled against one another. My kids thought it was the best day ever! Hannah got to look at all the displays, build with the duplos and watch all the robotic fun. Francis was in heaven too, I think. Fun was had by all!
Tuesday was Valentine's Day. The kids were greeted with cards and small gifts at the breakfast table. Francis recieved a cake that was made by myself and the kids as well as a couple other gifts. William got new Pokemon cards (as did Francis), Robert got a batman toy and Hannah got things for her babies. At CC school, William did a very special presentation on a missionary: William Phillips (his great-grandfather). He did a lot of research, and proudly presented what he knew. It was amazing! I made a special meal for dinner with sparkling grape juice to drink and cake for dessert. All in all a good "love day".
Wednesday we went to the library for story time as we do most weeks. Thursday was MOMS. at home, William and Francis made a binder for William's Pokemon cards. It turned out really well. Hannah and Robert had a great time in class while I learned about the FBI agency in College Station (who knew?) and some ways to protect our kids from the internet and what to do in the event of an abduction. Very interesting.
Friday we had playgroup. the weather cleared up just in time for us to have a great time!
Saturday was Abby's family birthday party. She is 6 years old today! We ate lunch, had a pinata, opened gifts and enjoyed spending time together as a family. It seems like only yesterday I help her in my arms for the first time. Happy Birthday Abby! We had dinner at a Mexican food place with all of my in-laws and the Davis family. I have missed Angel in particular terribly and it was good to spend time with her. So good.
This week had been a repeat of last: Church, grocery store, CC, Library, and MOMs (playdate to watch Tangled). It's been a blur but also so much fun.
William is reading very fluently these days. He is actually reading this blog aloud next to me as I type. It is impressive. He wants you to know he always wins at Pokemon cards against his dad, but it is because the new versions of the cards are way more powerful than the ones Francis has from 15 years ago.
Robert wants you to know he still likes batman and he is excited to go to Disney World soon (we are planning a trip). He is growing all the time and still a great cuddler.
Hannah is (miraculously) napping right now. She is talking more all the time and understands everything we say. She has an opinion about most things, loves her baby dolls and wants to do whatever her brothers are doing.
I got a fitbit for Christmas, but just now set it up last night. Not sure where I was going with that, but I do forsee more walking than I already do in my future. That's all I have time for now! Till next time!
Thursday, February 23, 2017
Thursday, February 9, 2017
February 9, 2017
It's been a long couple of weeks. We've been in a bit of a holding pattern fighting on and off what has turned out to be walking Pneumonia. With the exception of CC last Tuesday and parent's night out on Friday, we haven't been out much at all. All three kids and I have had this sickness, and every time I think we are finally doing better, we go out an crash upon returning home. It all came to a head Saturday evening when Hannah was cough-breathing in her sleep. I was able to get her into the doctor on Sunday where she was diagnosed and we were all able to get on antibiotics. I am happy to say we have all made a complete turn around with the exception of an occasional cough that I have a suspicion won't leave us for some time.
Last Tuesday was our family's turn to present during opening ceremony. Francis came and stayed through the morning so he could see what we do each week. He said it was mostly what he was expecting, so I guess that's good! I have the paperwork done so both boys can participate next year. Yay! One thing that did happen was that after science time (which happened to be on aeronautics, good timing!), Francis was invited to explain why experiments turned out as they did. He gave an impromptu explanation and did a good job! It was very fun having him there.
Friday we had our date night. We went to Bjs and saw La La Land. Both were made more enjoyable by being with Francis.
As I've said we've spent most of our time at home. Francis even stayed home with all 3 kids last Thursday so I could go to MOMs. I'm glad I went as the speaker said things I needed to hear. It's wonderful when truth is spoken over you at the exact moment you need it.
Overall update, William is reading. He is reading most everything he can get his hands on. When he wakes up, he reads the books in his room to himself or his siblings until it's time to get up and get going. He reads at nap time. He reads signs and, well, everything in sight. As a result he has started to check out "big kid" books from the library. Last time he chose books all about the ocean and this week, he picked to learn about Sharks and Cheetahs (two different books). He pours over them. It's amazing! He is still loving school minus handwriting. We have to find good motivators to get through handwriting each week. Everything else is a breeze.
Robert is always thinking. Even when he isn't feeling well, the what ifs are never ending. He has spent quite a bit of time building with the duplo legos as of late. I have to put "in progress" creations on the fire place to save for later or the world will be over. Some of his structures have been truly impressive! He's also very in tune to what is going on with his siblings. He knows the goings on of this house better than I do sometimes!
Hannah is growing and becoming so big! She loves clothes (dress up, costume, day wear, you name it). She has an opinion about what she is going to wear and it does not go on her body without her permission. Good news though, she likes the little girl underwear I bought her and does he best to keep it clean while wearing it (which is generally only part of the day because I don't really want to clean poop out of cloth). She loves her baby dolls. She spent a great deal of time yesterday wrapping up one of her dolls in a blanket and carrying it around. We found some of her newborn stuff, and much to her delight, it fit the doll, so the rest of the day was spent getting her doll, "all dolled up". She also loves reading about princesses. She generally picks a princess book when it's her turn to choose. I don't greatly encourage or discourage any of this so it's interesting to see her take such delight in all things "girly". On the other hand, her other favorite activities are light saber battles with her brothers, playing with action figures, and building forts. So, there's balance, haha.
Most of all I'm loving seeing these kids grow to love each other and learn about God. Our lives aren't perfect (the past couple of weeks have been close to unbearable at points), but I am thankful that God chose me for this job right now. I will honor it and Him as best I can.
Till next time!
Last Tuesday was our family's turn to present during opening ceremony. Francis came and stayed through the morning so he could see what we do each week. He said it was mostly what he was expecting, so I guess that's good! I have the paperwork done so both boys can participate next year. Yay! One thing that did happen was that after science time (which happened to be on aeronautics, good timing!), Francis was invited to explain why experiments turned out as they did. He gave an impromptu explanation and did a good job! It was very fun having him there.
Friday we had our date night. We went to Bjs and saw La La Land. Both were made more enjoyable by being with Francis.
As I've said we've spent most of our time at home. Francis even stayed home with all 3 kids last Thursday so I could go to MOMs. I'm glad I went as the speaker said things I needed to hear. It's wonderful when truth is spoken over you at the exact moment you need it.
Overall update, William is reading. He is reading most everything he can get his hands on. When he wakes up, he reads the books in his room to himself or his siblings until it's time to get up and get going. He reads at nap time. He reads signs and, well, everything in sight. As a result he has started to check out "big kid" books from the library. Last time he chose books all about the ocean and this week, he picked to learn about Sharks and Cheetahs (two different books). He pours over them. It's amazing! He is still loving school minus handwriting. We have to find good motivators to get through handwriting each week. Everything else is a breeze.
Robert is always thinking. Even when he isn't feeling well, the what ifs are never ending. He has spent quite a bit of time building with the duplo legos as of late. I have to put "in progress" creations on the fire place to save for later or the world will be over. Some of his structures have been truly impressive! He's also very in tune to what is going on with his siblings. He knows the goings on of this house better than I do sometimes!
Hannah is growing and becoming so big! She loves clothes (dress up, costume, day wear, you name it). She has an opinion about what she is going to wear and it does not go on her body without her permission. Good news though, she likes the little girl underwear I bought her and does he best to keep it clean while wearing it (which is generally only part of the day because I don't really want to clean poop out of cloth). She loves her baby dolls. She spent a great deal of time yesterday wrapping up one of her dolls in a blanket and carrying it around. We found some of her newborn stuff, and much to her delight, it fit the doll, so the rest of the day was spent getting her doll, "all dolled up". She also loves reading about princesses. She generally picks a princess book when it's her turn to choose. I don't greatly encourage or discourage any of this so it's interesting to see her take such delight in all things "girly". On the other hand, her other favorite activities are light saber battles with her brothers, playing with action figures, and building forts. So, there's balance, haha.
Most of all I'm loving seeing these kids grow to love each other and learn about God. Our lives aren't perfect (the past couple of weeks have been close to unbearable at points), but I am thankful that God chose me for this job right now. I will honor it and Him as best I can.
Till next time!
Saturday, January 28, 2017
January 28, 2017
Things have been busy over here. We are finally getting back into a routine. School is back in session on Tuesdays, playgroup has started back up, and MOMs is first and third Thursdays. Things are returning to normal, you might say.
William is reading everything in sight. It won't be long before he is doing chapter books alone, but for now, we read most things together so I can help him with the hard words. Those words are becoming fewer and fewer each day. He was a little resistant to start back up with school after a break, but he has certainly found his stride. He's getting more independent and taking the initiative on getting work done. I can't tell you how valuable that is so me and will be to him in the long run.
Robert is learning so much too. He has got down most of his letters, all of his numbers and shapes and has a great memory. He too has started to take some initiative with his little bit of school work. Normally we do hand over hand writing so he can get a feel for how to hold the pencil and what letters should look like, but this past wee he started to do handwriting all on his own and can write his name pretty legibly. I'm pretty impressed with my big 3 year old! We also found out he will turn 4 before the cut-off date so he can be in a CC class next year instead of the nursery. He is so excited!
Hannah had he 18 month check up on Wednesday. She is right down the middle of the road on weight at just over 22 lbs. She still has a big head for that big brain of hers, but has fallen to the 89th percentile for height (33.25in). The doctor said that this is normal as genetics are beginning to take over. Even f she grows none for the next 6 months, the doctor said, she will still likely be around 5' 10''. Wow! I know predictors are only that, but we do have some tall people on our family so it isn't out of the question. She is doing great on all of the milestones for her age. She has more or less mastered potty training with the exception of #2. She runs to the potty just before she starts (or just after, it's hard to tell), so only most of it makes it in the potty. Still! I will take changing her once to changing her all day long. She is keeping up with her brothers as best she can. And they don't want to leave her out anyway. It's fun to see them all. She wants to do schoolwork now too. I've been giving her coloring sheets and the boys make up activities for her to do. We are all learning so much about the world, each other, and Christ's love for us.
We also had a field trip on Wednesday. We went to the Fire Station. The kids learned all about fire safety, saw a fireman put on his gear, learned about what a fireman does, took a tour of the fire station and got to climb all over a fire engine. The boys even got to slide down the fireman's pole (well part of it). Fun was had by all, and we have been practicing what to do if there is a fire. I'm so thankful for opportunities to go out and learn in the community. Especially when I don't have to plan the trip!
We've got some sickness going on in our house last night and today. Please pray we are better for church tomorrow!
Till next time!
William is reading everything in sight. It won't be long before he is doing chapter books alone, but for now, we read most things together so I can help him with the hard words. Those words are becoming fewer and fewer each day. He was a little resistant to start back up with school after a break, but he has certainly found his stride. He's getting more independent and taking the initiative on getting work done. I can't tell you how valuable that is so me and will be to him in the long run.
Robert is learning so much too. He has got down most of his letters, all of his numbers and shapes and has a great memory. He too has started to take some initiative with his little bit of school work. Normally we do hand over hand writing so he can get a feel for how to hold the pencil and what letters should look like, but this past wee he started to do handwriting all on his own and can write his name pretty legibly. I'm pretty impressed with my big 3 year old! We also found out he will turn 4 before the cut-off date so he can be in a CC class next year instead of the nursery. He is so excited!
Hannah had he 18 month check up on Wednesday. She is right down the middle of the road on weight at just over 22 lbs. She still has a big head for that big brain of hers, but has fallen to the 89th percentile for height (33.25in). The doctor said that this is normal as genetics are beginning to take over. Even f she grows none for the next 6 months, the doctor said, she will still likely be around 5' 10''. Wow! I know predictors are only that, but we do have some tall people on our family so it isn't out of the question. She is doing great on all of the milestones for her age. She has more or less mastered potty training with the exception of #2. She runs to the potty just before she starts (or just after, it's hard to tell), so only most of it makes it in the potty. Still! I will take changing her once to changing her all day long. She is keeping up with her brothers as best she can. And they don't want to leave her out anyway. It's fun to see them all. She wants to do schoolwork now too. I've been giving her coloring sheets and the boys make up activities for her to do. We are all learning so much about the world, each other, and Christ's love for us.
We also had a field trip on Wednesday. We went to the Fire Station. The kids learned all about fire safety, saw a fireman put on his gear, learned about what a fireman does, took a tour of the fire station and got to climb all over a fire engine. The boys even got to slide down the fireman's pole (well part of it). Fun was had by all, and we have been practicing what to do if there is a fire. I'm so thankful for opportunities to go out and learn in the community. Especially when I don't have to plan the trip!
We've got some sickness going on in our house last night and today. Please pray we are better for church tomorrow!
Till next time!
Monday, January 16, 2017
January 16, 2017
First post of the year. I've been putting it off for several reasons, part of which is I have been very busy and some of the things I have to write are hard.
We spent our New Years' Eve at home and put the kids to be after having our own party of confetti and sparkling grape juice. In the middle of the night/early morning I woke up in great pain. My whole body had fallen asleep. It was strange and after a while I feel back asleep. When I awoke I got a call that Pop had fallen asleep for the last time early that morning. My body went numb again, and I cried both for sadness of my missing him and the joy that he was finally with his Heavenly Father. Teh next few days are a bit of a blur. Francis and I drove up with the kids to Brownfield the next day. The lights were still up from Christmas and the memories of 27 or so Christmases there flooded back. I think Pop wanted us to be able to come back around Christmastime. It's hard to be as sad when so many happy reminders of time with him hang from every light-post. We got to see my parents, Grandmother, Aunt, sisters, Kevin, Issac and Alexandra, Japapa and so many other extended relatives. We cried a lot, laughed a lot and hugged a lot. The viewing was the Tuesday. Beforehand we took the kids to feed the ducks and collected pecan's in Mom Noble's front yard. It was just like when I was a kid for a moment, except doimg it with my kids. It was s small tribute to Pop, but I hope it did him justice.At the viewing, William wanted to go into the viewing room with me so after prepping him we went in. He was very respectful and I answered any questions he had afterward. When we are in Christ, we have no reason to fear death, and I wanted to help him understand that. The funeral was the next day. the church was full to nearly bursting (Francis went to the back with Hannah so he could see everyone). The service was beautiful and I learned a lot I didn't know about Pop and his life. The kids were pretty good, and after we went back to Mom Noble's house, each kid, grand kid and great grand-kid got to pick out a knife from the many many Pop had made. In that way we got to take Pop home with us. It was a sweet time. Pop would have been pleased.
On the trip home, Christian and the Twins, Danielle, Francis, the kids and I stopped in Abilene to see Jamama. Although Japapa had been at the service, Jamama was unable to come for health reasons. She got to meet the twins and see my kids again. Though her speech is usally slurred or incomprehensible, she said "Here come the cuties" clear as day. When Christian introduced her to the twins, she said (also crystal clear) "They are just cute. They are so adorable." It was like having the old Jamama back for a moment. It was so wonderful.
We made it home for dinner Thursday and spent the next few days resetting for Francis to go to a conference in Dallas. We took down the Christmas decorations and ran a bunch of errands. Last week, Francis was gone and I was a single mom. It was hard, but I survived. I managed to get the kids to AWANAS, the grocery store, school on Tuesday (first one of the semester), the new Jump World, and two play dates. I also did laundry, cleaned the house and took a meal to a family. I think by making myself so busy I didn't think so much about the not sleeping and that Francis wasn't there. But when he got home Friday, a happier girl you wouldn't have met. Thank you God for husbands, and especially mine.
We are going to try to get back into a real routine this week. Hopefully life will be quiet for a while. William is more than 100 days into kindergarten. He decided he wanted to go to Best Buy and go on a Poke walk on A&M campus on Satruday. Cheap thrills. Robert is growing and has hit 38 inches! His 3T clothing are beginning to get short. Hannah is also growing. She will be 18 months soon. She is talking and understanding so much. I feel like all 3 of my kids are constantly changing and growing before my eyes. It's exciting and I will love on them extra as they are just so precious to me.
Till next time.
We spent our New Years' Eve at home and put the kids to be after having our own party of confetti and sparkling grape juice. In the middle of the night/early morning I woke up in great pain. My whole body had fallen asleep. It was strange and after a while I feel back asleep. When I awoke I got a call that Pop had fallen asleep for the last time early that morning. My body went numb again, and I cried both for sadness of my missing him and the joy that he was finally with his Heavenly Father. Teh next few days are a bit of a blur. Francis and I drove up with the kids to Brownfield the next day. The lights were still up from Christmas and the memories of 27 or so Christmases there flooded back. I think Pop wanted us to be able to come back around Christmastime. It's hard to be as sad when so many happy reminders of time with him hang from every light-post. We got to see my parents, Grandmother, Aunt, sisters, Kevin, Issac and Alexandra, Japapa and so many other extended relatives. We cried a lot, laughed a lot and hugged a lot. The viewing was the Tuesday. Beforehand we took the kids to feed the ducks and collected pecan's in Mom Noble's front yard. It was just like when I was a kid for a moment, except doimg it with my kids. It was s small tribute to Pop, but I hope it did him justice.At the viewing, William wanted to go into the viewing room with me so after prepping him we went in. He was very respectful and I answered any questions he had afterward. When we are in Christ, we have no reason to fear death, and I wanted to help him understand that. The funeral was the next day. the church was full to nearly bursting (Francis went to the back with Hannah so he could see everyone). The service was beautiful and I learned a lot I didn't know about Pop and his life. The kids were pretty good, and after we went back to Mom Noble's house, each kid, grand kid and great grand-kid got to pick out a knife from the many many Pop had made. In that way we got to take Pop home with us. It was a sweet time. Pop would have been pleased.
On the trip home, Christian and the Twins, Danielle, Francis, the kids and I stopped in Abilene to see Jamama. Although Japapa had been at the service, Jamama was unable to come for health reasons. She got to meet the twins and see my kids again. Though her speech is usally slurred or incomprehensible, she said "Here come the cuties" clear as day. When Christian introduced her to the twins, she said (also crystal clear) "They are just cute. They are so adorable." It was like having the old Jamama back for a moment. It was so wonderful.
We made it home for dinner Thursday and spent the next few days resetting for Francis to go to a conference in Dallas. We took down the Christmas decorations and ran a bunch of errands. Last week, Francis was gone and I was a single mom. It was hard, but I survived. I managed to get the kids to AWANAS, the grocery store, school on Tuesday (first one of the semester), the new Jump World, and two play dates. I also did laundry, cleaned the house and took a meal to a family. I think by making myself so busy I didn't think so much about the not sleeping and that Francis wasn't there. But when he got home Friday, a happier girl you wouldn't have met. Thank you God for husbands, and especially mine.
We are going to try to get back into a real routine this week. Hopefully life will be quiet for a while. William is more than 100 days into kindergarten. He decided he wanted to go to Best Buy and go on a Poke walk on A&M campus on Satruday. Cheap thrills. Robert is growing and has hit 38 inches! His 3T clothing are beginning to get short. Hannah is also growing. She will be 18 months soon. She is talking and understanding so much. I feel like all 3 of my kids are constantly changing and growing before my eyes. It's exciting and I will love on them extra as they are just so precious to me.
Till next time.
Friday, December 30, 2016
December 30, 2016
Things have been up and down these past two weeks. There were amazing moments, and some that have been down right rough.
I did go to Disney with my mother and sisters the weekend before Christmas. It was a very fun trip. My mom had to be gone for the middle two days to be in the electoral college in Austin, but was with us Saturday and Tuesday. My sisters and I watched her be elected chair (read President) of the Electoral College in Texas while in line for the Peter Pan ride. I was able to find the college live streaming. We were so excited that we told the people in front of us, but they didn't speak English. Mom got to announce to the world, that Texas put Trump over the top with electoral votes and that he would indeed be the next president of the United States. That made her top news story on every network and Good Morning America. No matter what your political views may be, you have to admit, that's a pretty cool experience. Danielle, Christian and I ate amazing food at the drive in diner, Be our Guest and the restaurant in Norway that I can't pronounce. We had pictures with a bunch of Princesses and Characters. We rode all the rides we wanted thanks in large part to Danielle's amazing fast Pass skills. We even rode the new Frozen ride (twice) and enjoyed it immensely.
Back in Plano, Francis, his mom and the kids went to church (where William was a shepherd in the Sunday morning Nativity), visited ICE, went to the Dallas Aquarium, Chuck E Cheese and a number of other places. It's safe to say they didn't miss me much, especially because we were able to Skype and see each other anytime.
The morning after we got home, my mom called and said that Pop (my dad's dad) had had a stroke and was not doing well. Mom Noble and Pop would not be at Christmas for the first time ever. On top of that my mom ended up coming down with the Flu. After spending another couple days with my in-laws (including another trip to Chuck E Cheese), we went to my parents house. My mom stayed secluded, and other than William having an allergic reaction to something and throwing up, everyone was healthy. It was a quiet and enjoyable couple of days, but the absence of family members was keenly felt. Since mom was sick, my sisters and I made lunch Christmas eve and did a decent job. It's hard to full Mom and Mom Noble's shoes. Then we Skyped Mom Noble and Aunt Camille on Christmas Eve and that helped a little with missing them. We had a quiet service at the house and opened presents. The kids loved all they got (as did I) and the present I got Francis was s hit. It was an amazing sound bar to go under the TV. He is thrilled and will be mounting it and the TV to the wall tomorrow. It was fun to see all the cousins together too. William and Robert drove around the twins and Hannah in the gator and truck. Laughing was heard through out the yard and house. I'm so thankful for that laughter.
Christmas day I rode with the kids and my in-laws to Cyndy's house while Francis dropped off our stuff and the dogs in College station before meeting us there. We opened gifts that afternoon and had a delicious dinner that evening. More cousin time (this time with Abby) was what the doctor ordered. The only dark spot there was the concussion I gave myself when we arrived. I was carrying Hannah and plopped down on their couch, but caught my head on the overhanging counter of the kitchen. I nearly blacked out when it happened and spent the rest of the day/evening holding back tears. It is still a little sore but doing much better. I'm just glad it was me and not Hannah!
This week we have been home putting the house back together and playing with Francis who is home his week. We've been to a movie, been clearance Christmas shopping (we found the Santa projector William has been wanting on sale for $30!), to Bahama Bucks for Shaved Ice (it's been very warm), and running errands. We've been trying to soak in all the family time. I had to say goodbye to Pop over the phone on Tuesday. He's not doing well. He's been unconscious and not eating or drinking for days now. If you could keep us and him in your prayers as he goes to meet Jesus, I would appreciate it. I oscillate between being so thankful for him and where he's going to being so sad he's leaving. I love him very much and I know he loves me. He also loves Jesus so I know I'll see him again. that makes it easier.
I want to end on a happier note, so I would like to say Hannah is doing great with potty training. She's only doing one accident a day at most and it's usually #2. William and Robert and doing great also. I couldn't ask for better, more compassionate kiddos. They've been hugging and loving on me even more than usual. Thank you God for sweet kids, husbands and family.
I hope you had a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
I did go to Disney with my mother and sisters the weekend before Christmas. It was a very fun trip. My mom had to be gone for the middle two days to be in the electoral college in Austin, but was with us Saturday and Tuesday. My sisters and I watched her be elected chair (read President) of the Electoral College in Texas while in line for the Peter Pan ride. I was able to find the college live streaming. We were so excited that we told the people in front of us, but they didn't speak English. Mom got to announce to the world, that Texas put Trump over the top with electoral votes and that he would indeed be the next president of the United States. That made her top news story on every network and Good Morning America. No matter what your political views may be, you have to admit, that's a pretty cool experience. Danielle, Christian and I ate amazing food at the drive in diner, Be our Guest and the restaurant in Norway that I can't pronounce. We had pictures with a bunch of Princesses and Characters. We rode all the rides we wanted thanks in large part to Danielle's amazing fast Pass skills. We even rode the new Frozen ride (twice) and enjoyed it immensely.
Back in Plano, Francis, his mom and the kids went to church (where William was a shepherd in the Sunday morning Nativity), visited ICE, went to the Dallas Aquarium, Chuck E Cheese and a number of other places. It's safe to say they didn't miss me much, especially because we were able to Skype and see each other anytime.
The morning after we got home, my mom called and said that Pop (my dad's dad) had had a stroke and was not doing well. Mom Noble and Pop would not be at Christmas for the first time ever. On top of that my mom ended up coming down with the Flu. After spending another couple days with my in-laws (including another trip to Chuck E Cheese), we went to my parents house. My mom stayed secluded, and other than William having an allergic reaction to something and throwing up, everyone was healthy. It was a quiet and enjoyable couple of days, but the absence of family members was keenly felt. Since mom was sick, my sisters and I made lunch Christmas eve and did a decent job. It's hard to full Mom and Mom Noble's shoes. Then we Skyped Mom Noble and Aunt Camille on Christmas Eve and that helped a little with missing them. We had a quiet service at the house and opened presents. The kids loved all they got (as did I) and the present I got Francis was s hit. It was an amazing sound bar to go under the TV. He is thrilled and will be mounting it and the TV to the wall tomorrow. It was fun to see all the cousins together too. William and Robert drove around the twins and Hannah in the gator and truck. Laughing was heard through out the yard and house. I'm so thankful for that laughter.
Christmas day I rode with the kids and my in-laws to Cyndy's house while Francis dropped off our stuff and the dogs in College station before meeting us there. We opened gifts that afternoon and had a delicious dinner that evening. More cousin time (this time with Abby) was what the doctor ordered. The only dark spot there was the concussion I gave myself when we arrived. I was carrying Hannah and plopped down on their couch, but caught my head on the overhanging counter of the kitchen. I nearly blacked out when it happened and spent the rest of the day/evening holding back tears. It is still a little sore but doing much better. I'm just glad it was me and not Hannah!
This week we have been home putting the house back together and playing with Francis who is home his week. We've been to a movie, been clearance Christmas shopping (we found the Santa projector William has been wanting on sale for $30!), to Bahama Bucks for Shaved Ice (it's been very warm), and running errands. We've been trying to soak in all the family time. I had to say goodbye to Pop over the phone on Tuesday. He's not doing well. He's been unconscious and not eating or drinking for days now. If you could keep us and him in your prayers as he goes to meet Jesus, I would appreciate it. I oscillate between being so thankful for him and where he's going to being so sad he's leaving. I love him very much and I know he loves me. He also loves Jesus so I know I'll see him again. that makes it easier.
I want to end on a happier note, so I would like to say Hannah is doing great with potty training. She's only doing one accident a day at most and it's usually #2. William and Robert and doing great also. I couldn't ask for better, more compassionate kiddos. They've been hugging and loving on me even more than usual. Thank you God for sweet kids, husbands and family.
I hope you had a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 15, 2016
December 15, 2016
Last weekend all 5 of us traveled up to Dallas for a wonderful weekend. After celebrating my Dad's birthday Friday night with the whole family (including my Aunt Camille) at Uncle Julio's, we headed back to my parents' house and opened presents and had cake. Saturday we all (the 5 of us, my parents, Christian and her family, Danielle, Kevin, Aunt Camille, and Francis's parents) all went to see Gift of Christmas at Prestonwood. I have always been in the show, so seeing it from front of house was exciting. Hannah was able to go to the nursery, but the boys watched in wonder as the amazing sounds and sight of Christmas came to life on stage. Their was santa flying in his sleigh, all manner of dancing and singing toys, a winter wonderland, black light displays, cool special effects, and of course, the Christmas story. The last was my favorite. They had flying angels, wise men with their entourage of people and animals, and a cast of so many carrying candles into the auditorium. All of this for one purpose, to see the newborn king. It was powerful. Thank you Lord for sending salvation. thank you for loving us.
Sunday was a long day as we left after church and yet still had to get back for AWANAS. I think it was worth it though. We've been trying to keep it low key this week since the next 10 days starting tomorrow will be nuts. Tuesday we stayed home until the afternoon and then went to the Library. Laura met us there and helped the boys make gifts for me (they were having a craft/gift making event) while I helped Hannah make a couple of things. the sweet boys have been begging to get me something for Christmas without me seeing it. They are super excited to have stuff under the tree from them to me that's a surprise (I help them with making their other gifts). Thanks Laura for giving them that opportunity! The kids and I met up with Francis and our small group at Rudy's for dinner and then toured the lights at Central Park as a group. It was so fun and I'm so glad we were able to do it.
Yesterday I awoke with a terrible headache. The kids and I managed to stay in our pajamas all day. By the evening I was feeling somewhat better, so Francis took us out to look at Christmas lights. I told the kids to go get ready and they all returned in full costume (Pikachu, Transformer, and Elsa respectively). It was kind of adorable and we weren't getting out of the car, so we loaded in the car and went out. That's what I call making memories.
Today we have been preparing to head out for Christmas. I got the car washed/waxed/vacuumed and we are mostly packed. I am also attempting to get the house in a state where I won't curse myself when I get back. So far, so good. You like;y won't hear from me until after Christmas. My mother, sisters and I are taking a long weekend trip to Disney World and then Christmas will be nearly upon us.
So, Merry Christmas! May his joy fill your spirit with gladness. If you don't know Jesus and want to know why I call him my Savior, I would love to talk to you. Just let me know.
Till next time!
Sunday was a long day as we left after church and yet still had to get back for AWANAS. I think it was worth it though. We've been trying to keep it low key this week since the next 10 days starting tomorrow will be nuts. Tuesday we stayed home until the afternoon and then went to the Library. Laura met us there and helped the boys make gifts for me (they were having a craft/gift making event) while I helped Hannah make a couple of things. the sweet boys have been begging to get me something for Christmas without me seeing it. They are super excited to have stuff under the tree from them to me that's a surprise (I help them with making their other gifts). Thanks Laura for giving them that opportunity! The kids and I met up with Francis and our small group at Rudy's for dinner and then toured the lights at Central Park as a group. It was so fun and I'm so glad we were able to do it.
Yesterday I awoke with a terrible headache. The kids and I managed to stay in our pajamas all day. By the evening I was feeling somewhat better, so Francis took us out to look at Christmas lights. I told the kids to go get ready and they all returned in full costume (Pikachu, Transformer, and Elsa respectively). It was kind of adorable and we weren't getting out of the car, so we loaded in the car and went out. That's what I call making memories.
Today we have been preparing to head out for Christmas. I got the car washed/waxed/vacuumed and we are mostly packed. I am also attempting to get the house in a state where I won't curse myself when I get back. So far, so good. You like;y won't hear from me until after Christmas. My mother, sisters and I are taking a long weekend trip to Disney World and then Christmas will be nearly upon us.
So, Merry Christmas! May his joy fill your spirit with gladness. If you don't know Jesus and want to know why I call him my Savior, I would love to talk to you. Just let me know.
Till next time!
Thursday, December 8, 2016
December 8, 2016
It's been a busy week. This past weekend m-laws came here, despite the nasty weather and took the kids' little F150 truck to my parents house so the kids can use it when we are in Dallas. It wasn't getting much use here, and they love driving around on Papa's land. I'm thankful Francis's parents made the drive. we were having a hard time finding a way to transport it.
Tuesday was our last Classical Conversations class of 2016. The moms brought treats for the kids to enjoy after lunch and a special table was set up where the kids could eat. William's tutor (teacher) gave him a bag of goodies for Christmas and he got her a gift in return. It had been a good semester. I am excited when we start back up in January!
I've been wrapping presents, shopping, mailing Christmas cards, and basically trying to wrap up all the "housecleaning" type things associated with Christmas. Although these things are good, I much more enjoy the time with family, laughing around the Christmas tree, the food, and the actual giving and receiving of gifts. Nowadays I find I most like the reading of the Christmas story and worship time Christmas Eve. I tear up even thinking about it. This is a season of Joy. May we spread His joy throughout this season and all year long.
Hannah decided Sunday that she is going to start potty training. Sunday morning she grabbed the potty seat, climbed on and peed on the potty. That afternoon she did the same only pooped. I can take a hint. She's had one accident per day since we started training Sunday, and it's usually when I forget or am unable to take her. I just hope all the travelling in the coming weeks doesn't undo all her hard work! Her hair is getting longer. I can now put it up into mini pony or pig tails. It is super adorable. Hannah is also talking so much more! She parrots words back at me all the time and uses words appropriately that I didn't know she knew. She is following simple directions, sharing (most of the time), and playing nicely (also most of the time). Her two new favorite things to do are sit at the table and eat from a toddler plate (not the high chair tray in the highchair), and dance when music is playing. While I do wish she were still eating in her high chair with a tray, the latter it adorable. Since Robert loves to dance continuously also, they are making quite the dynamic duo. I'll have to get a video next time.
Robert has been growing again. He is fully in 3T pants with only a couple being too long/wide for him. He is getting even better at his joke telling and comedic timing. He gets sweeter everyday. He is forming his own opinion about things much to William's chagrin. Sometimes he now tells William "no". It's nuts. He is getting much better at discerning truth from fiction and is striving to be honest as much as he can. This is music to my ears. Robert is also so smart. He knows all the history sentences, Latin, and English even though he wasn't in class with William this semester. He picked up solely from the CD and hearing us talk. I'm so impressed by his memory. He's already learned so much!
William has been diligent with his school work and we are still on track to finish in April. He asks tough questions, connects ideas like you wouldn't believe and always wants to know more. He is also a master of all his memory work from this semester. When he hears something, like someone mention Russia, he immediately says, "I know Russia, it has Moscow! I also know a sentence about the history of Russia..." and then he recites it. I like to see him learning, but on occasion I have to make him wait so whatever is going on can finish. He's learning to wait, yet another life skill.
Well, rest time has prematurely come to an end. Till next time!
Tuesday was our last Classical Conversations class of 2016. The moms brought treats for the kids to enjoy after lunch and a special table was set up where the kids could eat. William's tutor (teacher) gave him a bag of goodies for Christmas and he got her a gift in return. It had been a good semester. I am excited when we start back up in January!
I've been wrapping presents, shopping, mailing Christmas cards, and basically trying to wrap up all the "housecleaning" type things associated with Christmas. Although these things are good, I much more enjoy the time with family, laughing around the Christmas tree, the food, and the actual giving and receiving of gifts. Nowadays I find I most like the reading of the Christmas story and worship time Christmas Eve. I tear up even thinking about it. This is a season of Joy. May we spread His joy throughout this season and all year long.
Hannah decided Sunday that she is going to start potty training. Sunday morning she grabbed the potty seat, climbed on and peed on the potty. That afternoon she did the same only pooped. I can take a hint. She's had one accident per day since we started training Sunday, and it's usually when I forget or am unable to take her. I just hope all the travelling in the coming weeks doesn't undo all her hard work! Her hair is getting longer. I can now put it up into mini pony or pig tails. It is super adorable. Hannah is also talking so much more! She parrots words back at me all the time and uses words appropriately that I didn't know she knew. She is following simple directions, sharing (most of the time), and playing nicely (also most of the time). Her two new favorite things to do are sit at the table and eat from a toddler plate (not the high chair tray in the highchair), and dance when music is playing. While I do wish she were still eating in her high chair with a tray, the latter it adorable. Since Robert loves to dance continuously also, they are making quite the dynamic duo. I'll have to get a video next time.
Robert has been growing again. He is fully in 3T pants with only a couple being too long/wide for him. He is getting even better at his joke telling and comedic timing. He gets sweeter everyday. He is forming his own opinion about things much to William's chagrin. Sometimes he now tells William "no". It's nuts. He is getting much better at discerning truth from fiction and is striving to be honest as much as he can. This is music to my ears. Robert is also so smart. He knows all the history sentences, Latin, and English even though he wasn't in class with William this semester. He picked up solely from the CD and hearing us talk. I'm so impressed by his memory. He's already learned so much!
William has been diligent with his school work and we are still on track to finish in April. He asks tough questions, connects ideas like you wouldn't believe and always wants to know more. He is also a master of all his memory work from this semester. When he hears something, like someone mention Russia, he immediately says, "I know Russia, it has Moscow! I also know a sentence about the history of Russia..." and then he recites it. I like to see him learning, but on occasion I have to make him wait so whatever is going on can finish. He's learning to wait, yet another life skill.
Well, rest time has prematurely come to an end. Till next time!
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