I tried to look back to see if I had published this story and couldn't find it, so if it is somewhat of a repeat, continue reading because I'm actually telling the other half of the story.
Awhile ago, Emily was eating a burger in the van (I don't typically like to eat in the van, but sometimes you do what you have to do). I wanted her to finish eating the morsel she was working on. She had been chewing it and chewing it and chewing it. It was disgusting and I wanted her to swallow it already. I told her, "Swallow it." She chewed more. "Swallow it!" I started getting annoyed. She only chewed bigger and opened her mouth the more I ordered her to swallow it. Thinking she must not understand the word, I explained what I wanted her to do. In the end, I made her spit it out (she was never going to swallow it...I think she was using it like gum, which she isn't allowed to have).
So, today, she was eating some PB Cheese Crackers (we lovingly refer to these as salmonella crackers due to the recall on these this past year). After swallowing a few bites, she informs me, "Mommy, I swallow!" I am glad to know she finally understands the meaning of that word!
30 May 2009
29 May 2009
New Insight
I love the way the gospel seems to grow with you. Realistically, I know that it is I who am learning and growing and having my mind opened to new understanding.
I was asked to teach a Primary class (children's class) this Sunday. As I have been preparing for it, the Spirit came over me and instructed me on some things with which I have been entrusted. I thought I knew and understood what those gifts meant. However, by preparing this lesson, I see the application past myself. Jesus was very clear and succinct when he stated, "When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren" (Luke 22:32). I guess I tend to focus on the selfish part of converting myself and forget the larger picture. I need to remember to use those gifts and talents for the benefit of others rather than just remembering what those gifts do for my family and me.
I have a feeling that I have a new calling on the horizon. I know that if it happens, I have had that confirmation of the Spirit and will happily accept the opportunity to grow and serve once more.
I was asked to teach a Primary class (children's class) this Sunday. As I have been preparing for it, the Spirit came over me and instructed me on some things with which I have been entrusted. I thought I knew and understood what those gifts meant. However, by preparing this lesson, I see the application past myself. Jesus was very clear and succinct when he stated, "When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren" (Luke 22:32). I guess I tend to focus on the selfish part of converting myself and forget the larger picture. I need to remember to use those gifts and talents for the benefit of others rather than just remembering what those gifts do for my family and me.
I have a feeling that I have a new calling on the horizon. I know that if it happens, I have had that confirmation of the Spirit and will happily accept the opportunity to grow and serve once more.
27 May 2009
How To Pry It Open
How do you extend the jaws of an animal when they are already as wide as they can go? This was my question after hearing the most terrifying whelping from the garage this afternoon.
I had my niece and nephews over today and had the puppies still in the garage. All the sudden, it sounds like one of the dogs is being killed. I can only imagine that one has pinned the other and snapped open the stitches (that weren't removed last Friday b/c they haven't healed enough) and I was going to find a dying animal.
It wasn't that gruesome, but nearly as troublesome. Nani somehow had gotten her mouth caught on the kennel door. Her mouth was stuck around the bars with her chin pinned between the latch and the bar next to the latch (leaving a very small space between said objects). I tried to help her open her jaw more but to no avail. I knew Koa was getting distressed and causing Nani more anxiety, so I threw open the other kennel door for her to escape as I tried to think through what needed to happen next. Somehow that was exactly what needed to happen. Nani was able to move forward just enough (prior to this, she was pulling backwards thinking that this would free her) to unlatch her top teeth and then change the position of her head to free her chin.
I thought she lost a tooth in the mess, but it doesn't appear that way. However, she will have to be evaluated when we go to have their stitches removed (hopefully) tomorrow. Can I stop having these real-life emergency problem-solving situations, please?
I had my niece and nephews over today and had the puppies still in the garage. All the sudden, it sounds like one of the dogs is being killed. I can only imagine that one has pinned the other and snapped open the stitches (that weren't removed last Friday b/c they haven't healed enough) and I was going to find a dying animal.
It wasn't that gruesome, but nearly as troublesome. Nani somehow had gotten her mouth caught on the kennel door. Her mouth was stuck around the bars with her chin pinned between the latch and the bar next to the latch (leaving a very small space between said objects). I tried to help her open her jaw more but to no avail. I knew Koa was getting distressed and causing Nani more anxiety, so I threw open the other kennel door for her to escape as I tried to think through what needed to happen next. Somehow that was exactly what needed to happen. Nani was able to move forward just enough (prior to this, she was pulling backwards thinking that this would free her) to unlatch her top teeth and then change the position of her head to free her chin.
I thought she lost a tooth in the mess, but it doesn't appear that way. However, she will have to be evaluated when we go to have their stitches removed (hopefully) tomorrow. Can I stop having these real-life emergency problem-solving situations, please?
25 May 2009
Her First Pen Pal
While we were in Missouri, Emily made a great new friend: Alyssa. The two girls look very similar with their curly blonde hair and chubby cheeks.
Last week, Emily drew a picture and "wrote" a letter to her new friend. She was so ecstatic when she received this in the mail.
I read the letter to her and handed back the page. She hugged it to her chest and shouted out to the unseen friend, "Thank you, 'Lyssa!" It was so cute! It would be really cool if this friendship continued, even if it is only by letter.
Last week, Emily drew a picture and "wrote" a letter to her new friend. She was so ecstatic when she received this in the mail.
I read the letter to her and handed back the page. She hugged it to her chest and shouted out to the unseen friend, "Thank you, 'Lyssa!" It was so cute! It would be really cool if this friendship continued, even if it is only by letter.
24 May 2009
Terrifying Experience
Eric was assigned to go assist in a transition store in Prattville, Alabama. We've been there all weekend. We started out today by packing up the van and checking out before heading over to church. Church was great. Afterward, however, I had to come up with something for the girls and me to do for the 5 hours until Eric would get off work. Being the Sabbath, I had my work cut out for me (don't even add in the fact that it has been raining on and off all weekend making for a wet and muggy environment). I decided to go to a park in Montgomery. There was supposed to be a 6 block square of historical homes, so I could grab a few cool pictures as well.
The girls and I drove over to this park. It was vacant. No one around. Quiet. No big deal. I pulled Gianna out of her car seat and was holding her in one arm, had the keys in one pocket, my cell in the other and my camera looped around my arm. Emily walked next to me. However, as we started toward the park, I noticed a large, orange SUV with all dark-tinted windows slowly creeping toward us (the parking lot was simply a line of horizontal slots off a 3-lane road). My awareness was peaked but I figured I was just being paranoid. Then the SUV pulls up close to us. I look at the vehicle and consider getting back in the van with the girls. The SUV pulls back out and goes on down the street.
At this point, I think we're fine. Someone just lost or something. I take the girls into the park (again, remember, we are the only ones outside). We get to the side-center of the park and I notice the SUV circling around on the opposite side of the park. I start to worry. I am not in a familiar place. I don't really know what kind of area I have just driven into. I continue to watch the car finish the full circle around the park. The SUV again pulls into the parking lot, right next to my van and blocking my path from the park to my van. I start to wonder what I am going to do with two small children and basically nowhere to run.
I think. All I have on me are my car keys, my cell phone, and my camera. There's a little cash in the van. Nothing of any real value. I see two large men step out of the SUV and survey the area. By this time, I don't know if I was even breathing.
I quickly pull my cell phone out of my pocket and have a moment of hesitation about dialing 911. A quick glance at my children and I know I need to hit send. Immediately I have a woman on the line asking what my emergency is. I wonder if she will take me seriously and if someone will get to us in time. All the while, the men continue coming towards us. I have wandered into the center of the park, trying to see another exit or any other individuals out on this extremely muggy day.
The woman is taking down detailed descriptions of the vehicles, the men, as well as myself. I explain to her that these men don't have any children with them and it seems very odd that they should be at a park. I try to explain to her the location of the park. (Thank goodness I had my GPS navigate us there. I can still recall the names of the cross streets, but I also grab a visual of that to verify.) The lady asks me what the men are doing now and they have left the park and are at the SUV again. My stomach is tied up in knots, I can't even tell her the number I am calling from. I have no idea why they returned to their vehicle, but I am willing them to get back in their SUV and leave.
No. They open the back doors. I'm sweating bullets and wondering why the lady doesn't just tell me the police will be there soon. The two men pull out folding chairs. I relate this to the lady but request an officer to still report to the scene.
In a matter of seconds, these scary men become concerned about me and ask me, "Ma'am, are you alright?" I am now off the phone and know I need to respond to them. With a shaky voice, I explain that I'm okay, but that they really scared me by circling the park. They apologized and explained that they are just there to set up for a party and that we are welcome to join. I kind of nervously laugh and start steering Emily towards the entrance (she has to go potty at a time like this!). As we reach the entrance, I see the police car pull up. I speak to him as a police officer on bike arrives.
No, it was no longer a threatening situation. Everything is okay. I apologize for having them come out on a non-emergency situation. The officer reassures me that they would much rather come out on a suspicious report than to find a victim. They commended me on being a cautious parent and that these days you just don't know; that it is better to be safe than sorry.
In the end, (after finding a restroom for Emily to use) we do return to the park and Emily plays with the children of these two men. They were very generous and included us in a family celebration (their two 6 yr old daughters were sharing a birthday party at the park). I just felt awful that I was so terrified that I had to call 911 and have police show up to return that feeling of safety. However, I am very grateful for the prompt response of the Montgomery Police Department and the fact that it wasn't anything more than a scary moment.
The girls and I drove over to this park. It was vacant. No one around. Quiet. No big deal. I pulled Gianna out of her car seat and was holding her in one arm, had the keys in one pocket, my cell in the other and my camera looped around my arm. Emily walked next to me. However, as we started toward the park, I noticed a large, orange SUV with all dark-tinted windows slowly creeping toward us (the parking lot was simply a line of horizontal slots off a 3-lane road). My awareness was peaked but I figured I was just being paranoid. Then the SUV pulls up close to us. I look at the vehicle and consider getting back in the van with the girls. The SUV pulls back out and goes on down the street.
At this point, I think we're fine. Someone just lost or something. I take the girls into the park (again, remember, we are the only ones outside). We get to the side-center of the park and I notice the SUV circling around on the opposite side of the park. I start to worry. I am not in a familiar place. I don't really know what kind of area I have just driven into. I continue to watch the car finish the full circle around the park. The SUV again pulls into the parking lot, right next to my van and blocking my path from the park to my van. I start to wonder what I am going to do with two small children and basically nowhere to run.
I think. All I have on me are my car keys, my cell phone, and my camera. There's a little cash in the van. Nothing of any real value. I see two large men step out of the SUV and survey the area. By this time, I don't know if I was even breathing.
I quickly pull my cell phone out of my pocket and have a moment of hesitation about dialing 911. A quick glance at my children and I know I need to hit send. Immediately I have a woman on the line asking what my emergency is. I wonder if she will take me seriously and if someone will get to us in time. All the while, the men continue coming towards us. I have wandered into the center of the park, trying to see another exit or any other individuals out on this extremely muggy day.
The woman is taking down detailed descriptions of the vehicles, the men, as well as myself. I explain to her that these men don't have any children with them and it seems very odd that they should be at a park. I try to explain to her the location of the park. (Thank goodness I had my GPS navigate us there. I can still recall the names of the cross streets, but I also grab a visual of that to verify.) The lady asks me what the men are doing now and they have left the park and are at the SUV again. My stomach is tied up in knots, I can't even tell her the number I am calling from. I have no idea why they returned to their vehicle, but I am willing them to get back in their SUV and leave.
No. They open the back doors. I'm sweating bullets and wondering why the lady doesn't just tell me the police will be there soon. The two men pull out folding chairs. I relate this to the lady but request an officer to still report to the scene.
In a matter of seconds, these scary men become concerned about me and ask me, "Ma'am, are you alright?" I am now off the phone and know I need to respond to them. With a shaky voice, I explain that I'm okay, but that they really scared me by circling the park. They apologized and explained that they are just there to set up for a party and that we are welcome to join. I kind of nervously laugh and start steering Emily towards the entrance (she has to go potty at a time like this!). As we reach the entrance, I see the police car pull up. I speak to him as a police officer on bike arrives.
No, it was no longer a threatening situation. Everything is okay. I apologize for having them come out on a non-emergency situation. The officer reassures me that they would much rather come out on a suspicious report than to find a victim. They commended me on being a cautious parent and that these days you just don't know; that it is better to be safe than sorry.
In the end, (after finding a restroom for Emily to use) we do return to the park and Emily plays with the children of these two men. They were very generous and included us in a family celebration (their two 6 yr old daughters were sharing a birthday party at the park). I just felt awful that I was so terrified that I had to call 911 and have police show up to return that feeling of safety. However, I am very grateful for the prompt response of the Montgomery Police Department and the fact that it wasn't anything more than a scary moment.
23 May 2009
Human Fishpond
I took Emily and Gianna to Old Navy this morning. I thought nothing of taking the kids with me as I swung by to pick up some flip flops for each of us. Little did I realize that people can be psychotic when it comes to sales.
As we parked and got out of the van, I noticed a lot of people headed to Old Navy as well. Still, I did not know what awaited us inside. Upon entering the store, I was overwhelmed by the noise and the clustering people.
Clustering doesn't describe it. I witnessed people acting the same way as fish in a pond waiting for the anticipated food from above. A couple workers were high above on ladders pulling down the shoes and handing them to the first row of people crushed upon them. No one moved. They just kept collecting. People were so slammed up against each other that we eventually had to abandon the cart I had propped Gianna on in her car seat.
Deciding after about 10 minutes that it wasn't worth it, we did abandon the cart and headed for the door. About five feet from freedom and Emily begins wailing. She was so disappointed that she wasn't going to get the flip flops I had promised her (see previous post). I decided to dig in my heels and do what we went to do. I grabbed my girls and carried them into the crowd, maneuvering around some of the rudest people with whom I have ever come into contact. Within 5 minutes, I somehow came up with 2 pairs for Eric, 2 for Emily and a pair for me (there was a limit of 5). We then quickly moved to the front to wait in the long lines for checkout.
Because people did not care about the 5 pair restriction, the cashiers had to do each set of 5 as a different transaction. There were women with huge bags of shoes ahead of us. I knew we were going to be there for a long time. Sure enough, an hour and 45 minutes after entering the store, we finally escaped with our $4.95 purchase of 5 pairs of flip flops.
I have never witnessed this before nor do I ever wish to experience it again! Those of you that are faithful door-buster shoppers, power to you, but I'll leave it to you from now on!
As we parked and got out of the van, I noticed a lot of people headed to Old Navy as well. Still, I did not know what awaited us inside. Upon entering the store, I was overwhelmed by the noise and the clustering people.
Clustering doesn't describe it. I witnessed people acting the same way as fish in a pond waiting for the anticipated food from above. A couple workers were high above on ladders pulling down the shoes and handing them to the first row of people crushed upon them. No one moved. They just kept collecting. People were so slammed up against each other that we eventually had to abandon the cart I had propped Gianna on in her car seat.
Deciding after about 10 minutes that it wasn't worth it, we did abandon the cart and headed for the door. About five feet from freedom and Emily begins wailing. She was so disappointed that she wasn't going to get the flip flops I had promised her (see previous post). I decided to dig in my heels and do what we went to do. I grabbed my girls and carried them into the crowd, maneuvering around some of the rudest people with whom I have ever come into contact. Within 5 minutes, I somehow came up with 2 pairs for Eric, 2 for Emily and a pair for me (there was a limit of 5). We then quickly moved to the front to wait in the long lines for checkout.
Because people did not care about the 5 pair restriction, the cashiers had to do each set of 5 as a different transaction. There were women with huge bags of shoes ahead of us. I knew we were going to be there for a long time. Sure enough, an hour and 45 minutes after entering the store, we finally escaped with our $4.95 purchase of 5 pairs of flip flops.
I have never witnessed this before nor do I ever wish to experience it again! Those of you that are faithful door-buster shoppers, power to you, but I'll leave it to you from now on!
22 May 2009
The E Boyd's 3 Keys to Parenting
I've had a few conversations lately with several people dealing with parenting issues. Although we probably don't have the answers to their specific problems, we have some keys to success. These keys can only happen with love and respect in your home. However, it is also true that following these keys will enable love and respect to exist in your home.
Numero Uno: Parents must be parents first. We have come into contact with families that had parents who fall into the "parents must be friends first" category. This type of parent believes that it is more important to be considered "cool," brushing aside rules that should be enforced in order to preserve good standing in their child's eyes. There are too many "good cops" in the world and children are finding themselves lacking the structure and discipline to enable them to become successful children, and eventually successful adults wherever they may live, work, and associate. As a parent, you may be required to play the role of "bad cop" more often than the prior. Leave the good cop role to their friends, their teachers, their principal. If you do not discipline, who will? Your child will eventually appreciate the love you have for them by establishing those rules early on and things will begin to be easier.
Number Two: Consistency is key. Just as the laws of the land have established a predetermined consequence for the breaking of a law, you, as the parent, must establish what the consequences will be enforced for the undesired actions of your child. For example, if you run a red light, there is a fine associated with that offense. Therefore, when a child breaks a family law/rule, the child should be expected to "pay" for that offense. Granted, there are innumerable ways in which your child may choose to act out and test the boundaries. However, you can still establish that there are different levels of punishment to match the severity of the offense. We would also caution against justifying the alteration of these rules and disciplines for one child over the next. Be consistent with punishments (as well as rewards) with each child and between each of your children. We have witnessed the leniency of punishment for one child over another and what this demonstrates to the children. We aren't saying you must punish a 10 year old the same way you would punish a 2 year old. We are saying that if a 16 year old child skips school, when the next child reaches a similar age and commits the same breach of trust, the same punishment should be enacted.
Number Three: Follow through. It seems easy enough, but often parents get frustrated with a situation and throw something random into the mix to cause the shock and awe effect. Rely on your previous preparation for those confrontations. If need be, take time as a couple to discuss things before throwing on the threats. Threats are just that. They are not effective because you are not willing to follow through with them. Your child WILL call your bluff on the matter and essentially will win, destroying your authority. On the flip side, if you promise them something (as a reward) then you must follow through with that as well. Do not promise something you cannot fulfill. When you give your word, make sure you have the integrity you expect out of your child as well.
Children want your affection, approval and respect. These three keys have helped us to create an atmosphere of love and respect in our own home. We have witnessed for ourselves the way this helps our children to have a happy childhood because they know what is expected of them as well as what to expect from us.
Numero Uno: Parents must be parents first. We have come into contact with families that had parents who fall into the "parents must be friends first" category. This type of parent believes that it is more important to be considered "cool," brushing aside rules that should be enforced in order to preserve good standing in their child's eyes. There are too many "good cops" in the world and children are finding themselves lacking the structure and discipline to enable them to become successful children, and eventually successful adults wherever they may live, work, and associate. As a parent, you may be required to play the role of "bad cop" more often than the prior. Leave the good cop role to their friends, their teachers, their principal. If you do not discipline, who will? Your child will eventually appreciate the love you have for them by establishing those rules early on and things will begin to be easier.
Number Two: Consistency is key. Just as the laws of the land have established a predetermined consequence for the breaking of a law, you, as the parent, must establish what the consequences will be enforced for the undesired actions of your child. For example, if you run a red light, there is a fine associated with that offense. Therefore, when a child breaks a family law/rule, the child should be expected to "pay" for that offense. Granted, there are innumerable ways in which your child may choose to act out and test the boundaries. However, you can still establish that there are different levels of punishment to match the severity of the offense. We would also caution against justifying the alteration of these rules and disciplines for one child over the next. Be consistent with punishments (as well as rewards) with each child and between each of your children. We have witnessed the leniency of punishment for one child over another and what this demonstrates to the children. We aren't saying you must punish a 10 year old the same way you would punish a 2 year old. We are saying that if a 16 year old child skips school, when the next child reaches a similar age and commits the same breach of trust, the same punishment should be enacted.
Number Three: Follow through. It seems easy enough, but often parents get frustrated with a situation and throw something random into the mix to cause the shock and awe effect. Rely on your previous preparation for those confrontations. If need be, take time as a couple to discuss things before throwing on the threats. Threats are just that. They are not effective because you are not willing to follow through with them. Your child WILL call your bluff on the matter and essentially will win, destroying your authority. On the flip side, if you promise them something (as a reward) then you must follow through with that as well. Do not promise something you cannot fulfill. When you give your word, make sure you have the integrity you expect out of your child as well.
Children want your affection, approval and respect. These three keys have helped us to create an atmosphere of love and respect in our own home. We have witnessed for ourselves the way this helps our children to have a happy childhood because they know what is expected of them as well as what to expect from us.
20 May 2009
Doctor Doolittle
Emily has had a natural affinity for animals (dogs, especially) since before she could walk. As she has gotten older, we have only seen this increase.
Tonight, while the puppies were enjoying some long awaited "freedom" on their chains, Nani's collar came loose. Emily immediately brought her inside. Nani followed her little Pied Piper into the house, no problem.
Getting both puppies into their cage is sometimes a fairly good wrestle. Koa is good about going in; Nani, not so much. And, as Nani fights going in, Koa decides to come out. Not for Emily, however. She opened the cage door, told them "cage" and in they both went! What am I doing trying to train them? These are definitely Emily's dogs.
Tonight, while the puppies were enjoying some long awaited "freedom" on their chains, Nani's collar came loose. Emily immediately brought her inside. Nani followed her little Pied Piper into the house, no problem.
Getting both puppies into their cage is sometimes a fairly good wrestle. Koa is good about going in; Nani, not so much. And, as Nani fights going in, Koa decides to come out. Not for Emily, however. She opened the cage door, told them "cage" and in they both went! What am I doing trying to train them? These are definitely Emily's dogs.
19 May 2009
A Busy Day
I have been accomplishing more and more each day that we've had the puppies. I know it sounds crazy, but it is true. They force me to get out of bed and truly start moving at 6:30 every morning (well, they tried a 4:30 am yesterday, but that's not going to fly). So, I got up, took them potty, then worked with them on walking on a lead (this is definitely more difficult with two). Koa does very well, but Nani...well, she's going to take some patience.
After the walk, I came back in and worked out "with" my sister Rachel. Yes, long distance, but it can work! From there (mind you, I am also providing breakfast for my kids and getting them dressed for the day as usual, too), I did the laundry and cleaned the kitchen. And took the dogs out again (they had surgery last Friday, so they are still on confinement for that, but they are also being house trained).
Right after lunch, my niece came over and played with Emily, allowing me more time to get something done. So, while they played and Gianna napped, I pulled out the mower and got most of the yard done. Of course, there is a strip in the front yard still unfinished as I had to address Emily's meltdown over finding Up-she in the washing machine.
Brianna got picked up, Emily went down for her nap, Gianna needed more attention. Dogs out again.
By the time Eric got home, I felt like it had been a productive and busy day. We then had to run to Pet Smart to exchange a few items. Since we were out, Eric treated us to dinner at Cracker Barrel. It was nice to get out and enjoy dinner...especially since it was free (thanks Mama and Daddy!...Eric's b-day gift card).
And you know what? I slept really soundly...and so did everyone else!
After the walk, I came back in and worked out "with" my sister Rachel. Yes, long distance, but it can work! From there (mind you, I am also providing breakfast for my kids and getting them dressed for the day as usual, too), I did the laundry and cleaned the kitchen. And took the dogs out again (they had surgery last Friday, so they are still on confinement for that, but they are also being house trained).
Right after lunch, my niece came over and played with Emily, allowing me more time to get something done. So, while they played and Gianna napped, I pulled out the mower and got most of the yard done. Of course, there is a strip in the front yard still unfinished as I had to address Emily's meltdown over finding Up-she in the washing machine.
Brianna got picked up, Emily went down for her nap, Gianna needed more attention. Dogs out again.
By the time Eric got home, I felt like it had been a productive and busy day. We then had to run to Pet Smart to exchange a few items. Since we were out, Eric treated us to dinner at Cracker Barrel. It was nice to get out and enjoy dinner...especially since it was free (thanks Mama and Daddy!...Eric's b-day gift card).
And you know what? I slept really soundly...and so did everyone else!
16 May 2009
Mommy, You Mad
Facial expressions are one of the first ways we interact with other humans. Because of this, your children quickly learn to rely on what your face is telling them when your voice is not (such as when you have to discipline for something that is actually hilarious...they'll miss the correction if they catch that smirk on your face!).
I was plucking some eyebrow hairs during my beauty regimen tonight and Emily asked me what was wrong. I tried to convince her that nothing was wrong even while I was concentrating on grabbing the offending hair. Of course, I am also blind and have to get close up on the mirror (holding it in my hand) to even see what I'm getting at. So, here I am basically glaring at the mirror with my daughter inquiring after my emotional state. Emily wouldn't believe me and informed me in her very matter-of-fact manner, "Mommy, you mad." I disagreed with her and she again told me that I was mad. This time, she furthered her explanation since her mommy wasn't getting it. "Mommy, you face mad, so you mad when you face mad." And, there you have it.
I was plucking some eyebrow hairs during my beauty regimen tonight and Emily asked me what was wrong. I tried to convince her that nothing was wrong even while I was concentrating on grabbing the offending hair. Of course, I am also blind and have to get close up on the mirror (holding it in my hand) to even see what I'm getting at. So, here I am basically glaring at the mirror with my daughter inquiring after my emotional state. Emily wouldn't believe me and informed me in her very matter-of-fact manner, "Mommy, you mad." I disagreed with her and she again told me that I was mad. This time, she furthered her explanation since her mommy wasn't getting it. "Mommy, you face mad, so you mad when you face mad." And, there you have it.
A Rose By Any Other Name...
Yes, they might smell as sweet, but a name has implications and emotions tied to it.
We stayed up (way too late) last night considering names. At first, we were wanting something African or perhaps German to "celebrate" the ancestral dogs. In doing this, we offended some people. So, we found a different way of naming them. We ended up on a Hawaiian website for dog names. We chose two names that describe the dogs: Koa and Nani.
Nani means "beautiful" and she IS that. We originally wanted a second GSD. This little girl has the appearance of a GSD but in miniature. We just hope she also has the behaviors of a GSD and will easily train like Hannah did...well, we're hoping and praying that for both the girls. She is the smaller of the two dogs, weighing in at 21 pounds.
Koa means "strong" or "brave". She is alpha of the two and is slightly larger. While Nani was resting last night (out of the kennel), Koa stood guard. Koa already sits and they've had some training previously as they look to us as we go on walks. Koa also sits when we stop and waits to see what we are doing. We just have to remind them and continue working with them.
Hannah is taking her role as "mother" fairly well. She demonstrates PERFECT behavior. Seriously, she has been so obedient and great! It helps that Hannah is now 2 years old and an "adult" dog (GSD's take 2 years...Basenji's can take up to 3 years).
15 May 2009
Meet the Pups
It's official. We have them home with collars on and snoozing in their kennel. Emily is a bit upset because they can't really play for about 5 days b/c of their surgery (pound puppies MUST be fixed before they can go to their new home). Yeah, try explaining that to the puppies, too!
The brown nosed one with the broader head tends to be the silent one. We still haven't heard her make a noise (typical of the Basenji breed)but is very loving and wants your attention. The other (the more GSD looking of the two) seems more outgoing and does make noise, but not just to bark, either...she just has to stand up for the 2 of them against Hannah and Emily hovering over them and hurting their owies.
No one thought these dogs were puppies, but they are!! They are only 5 months old, which is great because they are still young and impressionable. I DO have the joy of housebreaking them, but that's okay. I don't mind, although it will probably make for long days over the next week or so. And, no worries, they are basically full grown at this point, though they may fill out a bit more over the next year or so.
We're still up in the air on names. We're taking suggestions, so if you have a name for either of them or even just one of them, let us know!! It's fun to see what people think are good dog names, anyway. We are NOT looking for silly rhyming names (no Trixie and Dixie or Mandy and Sandy, please!) and I am also a non-fan of candy-named dogs, either.
Sweet Bliss
Yesterday I had one of those moments where I didn't want a thing to change. My house was calm (even though we had one of Emily's friends over while his mommy did some service at the elem. school): children playing quietly on the sofa, baby inspecting her fingers yet again, and beautiful Hannah lying contentedly on the wood floor. A gentle breeze flowing in through the windows.
Then I woke up to reality. We had been down to a local animal shelter earlier that morning and chose not just an additional dog, but two. We just couldn't bear to leave one of them there to face euthanizing as they are sisters.
They are a beautiful pair of mix-breed dogs (Basinji and German Shepherd). Their more quiet voices (Basinji's don't have a bark, per se) is not to say they don't have playful personalities.
Of course, the future is still in play and we haven't gotten our new family sorted out quite yet, but I would encourage those who desire to add a dog (or cat) to their family to look to your local shelter. I'm not saying you shouldn't be choosy, but give the pound puppy a chance!
Then I woke up to reality. We had been down to a local animal shelter earlier that morning and chose not just an additional dog, but two. We just couldn't bear to leave one of them there to face euthanizing as they are sisters.
They are a beautiful pair of mix-breed dogs (Basinji and German Shepherd). Their more quiet voices (Basinji's don't have a bark, per se) is not to say they don't have playful personalities.
Of course, the future is still in play and we haven't gotten our new family sorted out quite yet, but I would encourage those who desire to add a dog (or cat) to their family to look to your local shelter. I'm not saying you shouldn't be choosy, but give the pound puppy a chance!
Thoughtfulness
I want to give a shout-out to Eric's parents.
While we were gone, they came over to check on the house. We didn't ask them to do this, they just took it upon themselves to be watchful and caring for us.
In addition to this, my father-in-law brought over his riding lawnmower and mowed our entire property that is mower accessible (we have a wooded area) the Saturday before we came home. It was so nice to come home to all of that taken care of so we didn't have to worry about it first thing.
On another note, Mama prepared an awesome gift for Mother's Day. She made a binder with the family recipes contained in it!! I think one of the coolest traditions/memories come from the foods we eat, so this was the best Mother's Day gift I could have ever dreamed up!!
I just wanted to celebrate and express my gratitude for such great in-laws! We love you!!
While we were gone, they came over to check on the house. We didn't ask them to do this, they just took it upon themselves to be watchful and caring for us.
In addition to this, my father-in-law brought over his riding lawnmower and mowed our entire property that is mower accessible (we have a wooded area) the Saturday before we came home. It was so nice to come home to all of that taken care of so we didn't have to worry about it first thing.
On another note, Mama prepared an awesome gift for Mother's Day. She made a binder with the family recipes contained in it!! I think one of the coolest traditions/memories come from the foods we eat, so this was the best Mother's Day gift I could have ever dreamed up!!
I just wanted to celebrate and express my gratitude for such great in-laws! We love you!!
12 May 2009
Trying Not To Push
It must be hard to be the second child, especially when the first did things so quickly. Eric and I don't remember this particular stage that Gianna is now going through. Perhaps it never happened with Emily or it was so quick we don't have those memories. I don't know. I do know that we expect a lot out of this second child based on the standards Emily set (believing that Emily was just your typical baby). I just saw this picture of Emily at a month old and thought, "Wow! I don't think Gianna can do that even now (at four months old)."
Who Was I Kidding?
When I said Emily and Breanna, I guess I meant Emily and Hannah. The two of them have been playing in the house all morning.
11 May 2009
How To Say Thank You
I just don't even know how to say thank you to some of the greatest people I know. It seems like every time I have one of those "wouldn't it be nice" moments, these people call and say, "hey, we have a ------, do you want it?"
YES! I want it and THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!
A sweet older couple in our ward just dropped by with another wonderful gift. Their granddaughters have outgrown the playhouse and wanted to know if we wanted it. So, they dismantled it, brought it over, put it back together, and cleaned it all up for us today.
I just wish there was something I could do in return to show my appreciation for such a thoughtful couple! With Breanna coming over to play all month, it couldn't have happened at a better time. The girls will LOVE playing in this house all summer.
YES! I want it and THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!
A sweet older couple in our ward just dropped by with another wonderful gift. Their granddaughters have outgrown the playhouse and wanted to know if we wanted it. So, they dismantled it, brought it over, put it back together, and cleaned it all up for us today.
I just wish there was something I could do in return to show my appreciation for such a thoughtful couple! With Breanna coming over to play all month, it couldn't have happened at a better time. The girls will LOVE playing in this house all summer.
Childhood Fun
I've recently taken on one of my nieces a few times a week while her mom pursues her education. It's great because Emily gets a (female) playmate. I'm not really big on going out and doing mostly because I don't like to plan. Anyway, I've realized in my few years of being a mommy that I should compile a list of childhood activities. This will be a great resource as I keep the girls occupied (and again when it is just Emily and myself and as Gianna gets big enough to "do" things, too).
I'd love for any ideas you have. Here are things I've come up with thus far:
wooden blocks, children's books
lincoln logs, various size/purpose balls
legos, water-paint books
hula hoop, sewing cards
tricycle/wagon/"big wheels," paper dolls
bubbles and various wands, plastic link bulbs
jump rope, cooking/grocery toys
coloring books/crayons/doodle pads/magna doodle
"little people" stuff, cars and car blanket
dress-up clothes, puzzles (ranging from the simplistic to the actual picture puzzles)
And now I can't think of anything else...so please, please add!!
Oh, and of course, there are also games we played as kids:
hide and seek
tag
what else?
I'd love for any ideas you have. Here are things I've come up with thus far:
wooden blocks, children's books
lincoln logs, various size/purpose balls
legos, water-paint books
hula hoop, sewing cards
tricycle/wagon/"big wheels," paper dolls
bubbles and various wands, plastic link bulbs
jump rope, cooking/grocery toys
coloring books/crayons/doodle pads/magna doodle
"little people" stuff, cars and car blanket
dress-up clothes, puzzles (ranging from the simplistic to the actual picture puzzles)
And now I can't think of anything else...so please, please add!!
Oh, and of course, there are also games we played as kids:
hide and seek
tag
what else?
10 May 2009
Silent Anniversary
Eric asked a good question the other day. Why do we only celebrate our marriage anniversary? Isn't the day we began dating just as important...without it, we wouldn't be together! (Obviously the answer is: you only marry once and you date and dump more than that prior to.) Still, let's just call it the "silent" anniversary.
Do you remember where you were when you started dating? Not really your first date, but the day you realized you actually wanted it to go somewhere?
Eric and I just had our silent anniversary 2 days ago. It's fairly easy to remember because it was Mother's Day 2005. We went to church in North Las Vegas with a couple I worked with as a missionary. We decided to make them a nice dinner (poor husband worked nights and forgot about it being Mother's Day, so it was also our intent to keep him from going out on the Sabbath to purchase anything). We ended up charcoaling a few steaks but inventing a great potato-packet type dinner instead. The time we spent one-on-one in service for these other people put the icing on the dating cake and things progressed from there. We watched a movie together (The Work and the Glory part I) that evening and we both knew we wanted more. Eric made his "big" move (he touched my hair) and here we are four years, two kids, and a mortgage later.
So, happy Mother's Day to all of you moms, but happy silent anniversary to you, Eric!
Do you remember where you were when you started dating? Not really your first date, but the day you realized you actually wanted it to go somewhere?
Eric and I just had our silent anniversary 2 days ago. It's fairly easy to remember because it was Mother's Day 2005. We went to church in North Las Vegas with a couple I worked with as a missionary. We decided to make them a nice dinner (poor husband worked nights and forgot about it being Mother's Day, so it was also our intent to keep him from going out on the Sabbath to purchase anything). We ended up charcoaling a few steaks but inventing a great potato-packet type dinner instead. The time we spent one-on-one in service for these other people put the icing on the dating cake and things progressed from there. We watched a movie together (The Work and the Glory part I) that evening and we both knew we wanted more. Eric made his "big" move (he touched my hair) and here we are four years, two kids, and a mortgage later.
So, happy Mother's Day to all of you moms, but happy silent anniversary to you, Eric!
07 May 2009
My First Attempt
Sew...I took a shirt like this...
and made it into this...
I had so much fun creating that I'm going to make a couple more of these for the girls to wear.
Can you see how excited Emily is to have this new dress?? She was mad that I made her try it on while her cousin Breanna was here to play.
and made it into this...
I had so much fun creating that I'm going to make a couple more of these for the girls to wear.
Can you see how excited Emily is to have this new dress?? She was mad that I made her try it on while her cousin Breanna was here to play.
06 May 2009
Flowers
I just love pictures of flowers. I don't particularly care for cut flowers in my home, but I like to take pictures of flowers I guess. We didn't get to go down many of the flower trails yesterday, but the flowers we did see were very pretty. It was just so refreshing to be out in such a beautiful "manicured forest"...at least, that's how I would describe this place.
Butterfly House
Emily, Gianna, and I went on our own adventure yesterday. We went to see the Butterfly House at Callaway Gardens. I got a lesson in photography...you can't exactly photo moving butterflies.
Picture this. They don't allow strollers inside the butterfly house (they don't want you to run over the butterflies), so I had to carry Gianna around inside this hot, extremely humid room. Of course, I have also lectured Emily on the "look don't touch" issue. So, being a somewhat paranoid mother of a toddler in a no-touch room, carrying a squiggly 4 month old, and trying to chase butterflies around with our camera. It must have been a sight to see. I eventually realized how pointless it was and how crazy I must have looked. I then started filming the butterflies...I'll post that later...hopefully I can figure it out.
Anyway, here are a few of the pictures that weren't blurred and fuzzy images. Oh, and yes, there are two mating...there was a lot of mating going on around 4:30 yesterday afternoon. Blech!
04 May 2009
Guttural "G"
I'm sitting here in stitches listening to Gianna perfect her guttural "g" sounds. I don't remember Emily being so hilarious with this particular sound (Emily made the Garfield Christmas "Ooo" as her trademark). Gianna also has a favorite sound...anything that starts with a "g"...probably because she is already vain about herself and thinks you are going to say her name. =) She's a funny baby. Different from Emily with some similarities.
Do you try to predict what type of personalities your children will grow up owning? Our prediction for Emily is to be outgoing and kind of a class clown (hopefully she will have discretion with that, though!) while Gianna will be more reserved with a dry sense of humor. Of course, we know they can totally surprise us, but for now, that's what we predict.
Do you try to predict what type of personalities your children will grow up owning? Our prediction for Emily is to be outgoing and kind of a class clown (hopefully she will have discretion with that, though!) while Gianna will be more reserved with a dry sense of humor. Of course, we know they can totally surprise us, but for now, that's what we predict.
01 May 2009
Storytime
It's my new favorite part of the day. Every afternoon since we've been home, Emily climbs up in my lap and asks me to tell her stories. It's really cute. Not ME telling the stories, but that we rotate and take turns telling stories. Sure, most of her stories are a combination of unintelligible words intermingled with retellings of the stories I have just shared and the normal day events, but it is rather cute to watch her tell them to me. I love it and it is a special time I get to share with my sweet Emily.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)