Well, I think we have weathered the worst of the storm or at least the tidal wave that swept thru our house. 2 girls on antibiotics, 1 lil boy completed his antibiotics, one mommy taking the last of her antibiotic z pack. Gram has left. We are on our own. Made it thru the evening with only 1 hitch. Poor A is having such a rough time. I think she has no coping skills in dealing with stress and our house is slightly stressful. Who would have thought that our perfectly behaved child would make such a drastic turn. I guess I should say, welcome to the world of foster care. She did get to go see her mommy & daddy by herself today for a couple of hours. I had hoped that would help her. The only bad thing was when she walked into the house toting all kinds of new loot, the other kids felt really left out.
KK is so darn eager to please. She works so hard at her school work and is so pleased that she has earned a smiley face on her behavior chart every day. She came home with a packet to fill out for Star student of the week next week. A little thing to the ordinary, but so heartbreaking to me. You have to fill out your family information and your pet, etc.. I am crushed as she decides to use us as her family. Crushed because I know her stay with us is only for a little while. I wish she wasn't star student next week, but I'm sure that its bothering me more than her. She & Camille had a fabulous time filling out the information. I will try not to be a control freak and have them redo it so that it looks cuter.
On the way home from taking A to supervised visit, I pass a young woman holding a baby, dog on a leash, and a cardboard sign with Need Help. I have seen homeless people with signs before but never a young woman, and certainly not one with a baby. I am so perplexed by this. I did not stop. I knew I had no more room in the inn, but I can't help but think about them and the circumstances that led them to the place they are. I am so thankful for my home and my family. An extra big thanks to Gram for saving us last week when we were struggling with being sick, adjusting to 2 new people in our house, and just all in all needing the blessing of her presence in our house.
I escaped from the house on Sunday night to go to home group. Todd slipped away to do some work on his computer that he has been battling with all weekend over some virus. I drove out of the driveway and it hit me that I was all alone. Wow, that hadn't happened in almost a week. Tears trickled down my face as the stress of the week somehow caught up with me. It was a cleansing cry, a relief that I knew we were going to be okay. Considered staying in my van and having alone time but really love my home group so I made it in. I'm thankful for the prayers and support they offered up for me. I know that it is because of their prayers, I have regained some strength and know that I can love these children and all their issues for as long as they are here. Thank you God for my church family.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
The Path
There is such a fine line between chaos and control. One minute its a controlled chaos and the next moment things seem to fall apart. Trying to do breathing treatments twice a day with a wiggly 3 year old boy. He actually does pretty well with it as long as he can snuggle close and twirl my hair. Thursday morning brought a call from the school nurse that Camille was sick. Strep throat. Thank goodness Gram is here to help while I take to doctor. Get home & A starts running a temp that afternoon. Can't get thru to Pedi Place. I'm placed on hold about 10 minutes. I call all the urgent care, rapid med, acute care places & none take the foster care insurance. I call the nurse's line for the foster care insurance and after 20 minutes am no better off. I alter between disbelief and anger that I can't find some one to look at her. I so easily called and made Camille her appointment and now I can't get A an appointment. I can take her to Camille's doc but it will cost around $100. Ridiculous. No sleep Thursday night. Camille sleeps with me and snores like a rumbling truck. A wakes up at 1:30 needing water. Tylenol for both of them. 4 am and Z is up. He loads up on so much water/juice(refuses to drink straight water so I'm sneaking it in). He has to use the pottie. I've got the baby gate at his door so that he doesn't sneak up and get Madeline's make-up. Poor guy can't even go pottie without being lifted over. I end up changing his sheets & clothes because his pull-up has overflooded. 6:30 comes way too early. Only KK & Lucas to go to school so the morning goes smoothly. A's fever is worse. I call 3 different doctor's offices in 3 different towns nearby and no one can see her until Monday. Now I'm even more frustrated. So, off to the er we go again. Arrive and 1 minute later we are whisked away like royalty. Strep throat, duh.
Mid afternoon I call for some antibiotics for myself. Not sure whats going on with me other than exhaustion and 6 kids. Thank goodness for a great doctor and a great Gram helping us out.
My heart is filling with love for little Z. I have so many flashbacks of Lucas. He wants a drink so he opens the dishwasher, stands on it and tries to get a sippie. He is in the bathroom turning on the tub so he can wash the barbie's hair. Brushes his teeth but can't reach the sink so he spits in the tub and turns on the water to get a drink. Grabs Camille's slipper and runs, which infuriates Cruella and she races after him. He is laughing as she lunges for him. Luckily for both of them, Buddy intervenes. He is coaxed onto Buddy's lap to do his breathing treatment, I soon join them and he holds my hand. His crying is so much better. He definitely prefers to cry when he wants something or to get his way, but I think he is trainable.
KK has made so many friends at school. We play on the playground after school and several new friends come by to say hi. She is so proud of herself for getting smiley faces on her chart every day this week. Of course this makes me wonder what she normally gets. What the heck is normal? Still unfathomable as to how all this can be happening. I am blessed with daily requests as to how friends and neighbors can help us. I am putting them on next week's list when Gram goes home. I couldn't do this without a support system.
As I have 2 sick with strep and Z with his breathing issues, I sometimes question the path we have chosen. Then I have this sweet little boy wrap his arms around me and I remember. I fill my prayers seeking wisdom in how to make the most positive impact I can for these children who will be in my home such a short time. I pray for the family they will be joining. I feel a nudging in the back of my mind and can't help but wonder what it would be like to watch them grow up. I am thankful in knowing that God has blessed this path that we are on and that He will guide us in our road ahead. Please join me in praying for these sweet children.
Mid afternoon I call for some antibiotics for myself. Not sure whats going on with me other than exhaustion and 6 kids. Thank goodness for a great doctor and a great Gram helping us out.
My heart is filling with love for little Z. I have so many flashbacks of Lucas. He wants a drink so he opens the dishwasher, stands on it and tries to get a sippie. He is in the bathroom turning on the tub so he can wash the barbie's hair. Brushes his teeth but can't reach the sink so he spits in the tub and turns on the water to get a drink. Grabs Camille's slipper and runs, which infuriates Cruella and she races after him. He is laughing as she lunges for him. Luckily for both of them, Buddy intervenes. He is coaxed onto Buddy's lap to do his breathing treatment, I soon join them and he holds my hand. His crying is so much better. He definitely prefers to cry when he wants something or to get his way, but I think he is trainable.
KK has made so many friends at school. We play on the playground after school and several new friends come by to say hi. She is so proud of herself for getting smiley faces on her chart every day this week. Of course this makes me wonder what she normally gets. What the heck is normal? Still unfathomable as to how all this can be happening. I am blessed with daily requests as to how friends and neighbors can help us. I am putting them on next week's list when Gram goes home. I couldn't do this without a support system.
As I have 2 sick with strep and Z with his breathing issues, I sometimes question the path we have chosen. Then I have this sweet little boy wrap his arms around me and I remember. I fill my prayers seeking wisdom in how to make the most positive impact I can for these children who will be in my home such a short time. I pray for the family they will be joining. I feel a nudging in the back of my mind and can't help but wonder what it would be like to watch them grow up. I am thankful in knowing that God has blessed this path that we are on and that He will guide us in our road ahead. Please join me in praying for these sweet children.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Cruella
Hump day is ok. Gram is saving the house by keeping the kitchen clean, laundry going, and bathrooms clean. I think I like having a housemaid :). A has a 45 minute meltdown. She is so overwhelmed by the chaos in the house. She has turned into a quiet child. I can't even remember the last time one of the hatched kids told her to "shut up". She is retreating into herself. KK is doing marvelous. She is a sassy little thing but we know sassy so well at this house. Get her some new hot pink twinkle toes and she is ready to take on school. Yep, her new teacher has jury duty for 2 weeks. That totally stinks, but she'll be fine. They are all so eager to please. Todd says I have a workforce of 6. Doesn't exactly feel like that. Gram is working like she has the power of 6. Back to the doc for Z. More meds but the crying has decreased. When he's not crying he has this remarkable charm, gleam in his eye, and kisses & hugs for me. He is incredibly athletic. I about panicked when I say he swing off the top of the playground equipment and slide down the fireman pole. He can almost ride a skateboard. He should probably wear a helmet all the time.
Listening to Gram tell Gramps that she is sleeping on the floor in Camille's room. When all the kids are in the kitchen after Gram arrives I ask who's going to share their room? Lucas without hesitation says she can stay in his room. Madeline immediately says nope, she's not giving up her bed. What a brat. Almost takes away all the good she did when watching Z. We'll see how the week goes.
Get 5 kids off to school. Gram & I are taking Z to the doc. Stop for some breakfast at McDonald's. Have to hide play equipment from him, so he climbs all over the booth instead. He races to the bathroom & I'm not so quick. Sits on the pottie but doesn't get his pants pulled down all the way. Pee all over them. I have an extra pull-up but no pants. yep, I drag him into the medicaid doc's office wearing no pants & only a pull-up. Stupid Dollar General didn't sell pants. Oh, well, I'm sure they've seen worse. I was just waiting for them to ask me if I needed to get something from their goodies closet for poor little Z to wear. 3 more medicines & we are out of there. It only took 1 1/2 hours. I swear he touched everything imaginable while in there. I am having flashbacks to another little very active boy who I love so much.
The tide has switched in that Z now says "Nina" and needs to know where I am. Its not an out of control thing & he does let Buddy & Gram help him. But, we are attached. 5 days. He goes me to take Madeline to small group. Plops down on Kristi's lap on the sofa and greets each girl as they enter. Each one makes a fuss over him. He is in heaven. Only bad thing, he doesn't want to leave. Clinging to Kristi, she brings him to the car and he cries for "Madwin" all the way home. Can't win, anything can set him off. Craziest thing is that his reaction to all of this is probably healthier than the other 2. When he is mad then turns sad, he cries, nana, gg, nina. Doesn't know who to turn to. I'm here for him. I think he is learning that.
Camille & Z don't always see eye to eye. She calls him poopie pants. I call her Cruella. Of course, she pipes right back and says, "I hate children" in her best Cruella voice. Gotta appreciate a good come back. Out of all the people in the house, Z has only bit one person. Cruella, and it has happened twice. Out of all the people in the house, she is probably the most loving, maternal kid. She does get to love on him and help him. If we can get the crying, biting, and pooping in pants under control, I think they'll be best friends.
Listening to Gram tell Gramps that she is sleeping on the floor in Camille's room. When all the kids are in the kitchen after Gram arrives I ask who's going to share their room? Lucas without hesitation says she can stay in his room. Madeline immediately says nope, she's not giving up her bed. What a brat. Almost takes away all the good she did when watching Z. We'll see how the week goes.
Get 5 kids off to school. Gram & I are taking Z to the doc. Stop for some breakfast at McDonald's. Have to hide play equipment from him, so he climbs all over the booth instead. He races to the bathroom & I'm not so quick. Sits on the pottie but doesn't get his pants pulled down all the way. Pee all over them. I have an extra pull-up but no pants. yep, I drag him into the medicaid doc's office wearing no pants & only a pull-up. Stupid Dollar General didn't sell pants. Oh, well, I'm sure they've seen worse. I was just waiting for them to ask me if I needed to get something from their goodies closet for poor little Z to wear. 3 more medicines & we are out of there. It only took 1 1/2 hours. I swear he touched everything imaginable while in there. I am having flashbacks to another little very active boy who I love so much.
The tide has switched in that Z now says "Nina" and needs to know where I am. Its not an out of control thing & he does let Buddy & Gram help him. But, we are attached. 5 days. He goes me to take Madeline to small group. Plops down on Kristi's lap on the sofa and greets each girl as they enter. Each one makes a fuss over him. He is in heaven. Only bad thing, he doesn't want to leave. Clinging to Kristi, she brings him to the car and he cries for "Madwin" all the way home. Can't win, anything can set him off. Craziest thing is that his reaction to all of this is probably healthier than the other 2. When he is mad then turns sad, he cries, nana, gg, nina. Doesn't know who to turn to. I'm here for him. I think he is learning that.
Camille & Z don't always see eye to eye. She calls him poopie pants. I call her Cruella. Of course, she pipes right back and says, "I hate children" in her best Cruella voice. Gotta appreciate a good come back. Out of all the people in the house, Z has only bit one person. Cruella, and it has happened twice. Out of all the people in the house, she is probably the most loving, maternal kid. She does get to love on him and help him. If we can get the crying, biting, and pooping in pants under control, I think they'll be best friends.
I love them
Well, the crazy and the gullible got worse as we moved into Monday. As I have stated before I am not a crier. Don't cry at movies, don't usually cry when someone else is, just don't. Well, I had 2 crying times on Monday. We went from controlled chaos & fun on Saturday to losing control on Sunday and to all out havoc on Monday, all because of little 3 year old Z. The little guy probably cried about 70% of the day. I called the doc's office to get him in and they said it would be Wednesday before they could get him in. I hate poor people insurance. Didn't know why he was crying, because of life's circumstances or was he sick or what. His nose is running, he came with a nebulizer that had never been used. This sweet little boy's world had been turned upside down and I was at such a loss as to how to help. He is somewhat hard to understand speech wise, too. I felt like he would be trying to tell me something and I didn't get it. How frustrating for him & for me. It was a very, very long day. The kids were all tense. I was tired. Did I mention getting up with him 5 times Sunday night? No one in town takes the medicare or medicaid or Star Health, can't keep them all straight. The next nearest doc would be in Denton or Irving. Ridiculous. Broke down and took him to the er. They said thats what they are there for. Good thing is that no one in Bubble land must use the er because we walked right in. An x-ray, lots of stickers, popsicles, and rubber duckies for all 3 kids and we were out of there in 45 minutes. Super service. He has 2 prescriptions and directions to go to the doc on Wednesday. I am somewhat relieved because now maybe he can get better and not cry.
Escape for the evening to go to dinner with my bunco babes. An extra treat for me and a huge sacrifice for Todd. Kids are all asleep when i get home. I am hopeful for a new day. This one was very long and very draining. I am questioning my sanity and my decision to add 2 more to our family.
Tuesday morning brings a huge surprise. At 7, Todd says he is going to the airport. Oh great, he's running away. Nope, my mom has flown in. Todd sent her a SOS email on Monday night and she flies out the next morning at 4 a.m. Now there is definitely hope that we can make it.
KK starts school, only to find out that the teacher I wanted her might have jury duty and is not there that week. That's ok, since she has already meet 2 kids in her class over the weekend.
Tuesday is always a long day because of supervised visits with their families. I am so grateful for the extra hands around the house. I am also amazed, not surprised by the wonderful support system of friends that have offered meals, laundry help, transportation, etc.. Sometime its hard living away from family and that makes friends so much more important. I ask friends to save up for next week since Gram is here this week. Gram's going to need a vacation next week.
I am dreading the visit today. Mommy is suppose to be there and the kids haven't seen her in several weeks. Now they are going to be even more confused. I keep hoping she won't show, I know, that's not very nice of me. Sometimes after listening to a 3 year old cry because he is so confused about his little life, you don't feel very nice towards the person that did this to him. As I'm making the 45 minute drive with the 3 kids I decide that I'm just going to stay for the visit. And I do. I did have to step out in the hallway 2 times because I had to sniff back the tears. During the visit with mommy(whose raised KK & Z), A huddles in my lap. KK snuggles with me some, too. Z wants nothing to do with me and only wants Mommy. I listen as she tells them things that I know are not true. Its hard but I stay in the kind, caring mode. I want to scold her and tell her how badly these children are hurting. I decide it won't help. It begins to turn into a crying disaster as mommy is leaving but I say, "Isn't grandma bringing presents?" And they all regain control.
The visit with the grandparents(A's parents) is the 2nd part of my hallway walk to make sure I don't cry. I thought I would leave during this part of the visit and make my way to DQ for a buster bar therapy. Nope. Z won't let me leave. If he cannot see me, he is saying "NINA!" KK is also looking to me. I try to take the 2 of them out of the room so that A can have time alone with them. A gets a look of panic in her eyes and I have to tell her that I am not leaving her. We venture down to the bathroom. Helping KK and Z is crawling on the floor between the stalls. Ok, he's on the pottie. Great! He was pottie trained before he came to my house but that has fallen to the way side. Not great. I open the door and a hunk of sh** is on the floor, on the seat and on his pants. Scrub the waistband of his pants in the sink. I have a clean pull-up. Then I go tell the cps office people that there is a mess in the bathroom. 2 of them sit there and stare at me blankly. I repeat myself 3 times. I want to say, "I am not one of them. I am the foster mom. I have a college education. I do not clean sh** off the floor in your office's bathroom." But, I don't. I stay in nice foster-mommy mode. Our case manager is out sick. Another one comes and asks me about the mess. I even am so nice that I say that I can clean it up if I have the products. Nope, she says, I'm cleaning up enough after the kids. She makes the grandma leave the visit to go clean it up. Of course grandma willingly and with the kind of grace that I see daily in A, takes care of the job. Did I mention I was having a crappy day?
What kind of crap is this? These children are so confused. I am an emotional wreck as I witness this struggle of watching the kids try to figure out who to turn to. I hate this.
We leave the visit with new pillow pets, dolls, and a bag of powdered donuts. We have survived and everyone wants to willingly get in my van.
My heart hurts so much for them. A's grandma is telling them to be extra good for Nina. They are all so good. So sweet. I love them.
Speaking of crap, my home group will be so pleased that their prayers are working. Todd changed a poopie pull-up at 5 a.m. Gods is great. My husband is good.
Escape for the evening to go to dinner with my bunco babes. An extra treat for me and a huge sacrifice for Todd. Kids are all asleep when i get home. I am hopeful for a new day. This one was very long and very draining. I am questioning my sanity and my decision to add 2 more to our family.
Tuesday morning brings a huge surprise. At 7, Todd says he is going to the airport. Oh great, he's running away. Nope, my mom has flown in. Todd sent her a SOS email on Monday night and she flies out the next morning at 4 a.m. Now there is definitely hope that we can make it.
KK starts school, only to find out that the teacher I wanted her might have jury duty and is not there that week. That's ok, since she has already meet 2 kids in her class over the weekend.
Tuesday is always a long day because of supervised visits with their families. I am so grateful for the extra hands around the house. I am also amazed, not surprised by the wonderful support system of friends that have offered meals, laundry help, transportation, etc.. Sometime its hard living away from family and that makes friends so much more important. I ask friends to save up for next week since Gram is here this week. Gram's going to need a vacation next week.
I am dreading the visit today. Mommy is suppose to be there and the kids haven't seen her in several weeks. Now they are going to be even more confused. I keep hoping she won't show, I know, that's not very nice of me. Sometimes after listening to a 3 year old cry because he is so confused about his little life, you don't feel very nice towards the person that did this to him. As I'm making the 45 minute drive with the 3 kids I decide that I'm just going to stay for the visit. And I do. I did have to step out in the hallway 2 times because I had to sniff back the tears. During the visit with mommy(whose raised KK & Z), A huddles in my lap. KK snuggles with me some, too. Z wants nothing to do with me and only wants Mommy. I listen as she tells them things that I know are not true. Its hard but I stay in the kind, caring mode. I want to scold her and tell her how badly these children are hurting. I decide it won't help. It begins to turn into a crying disaster as mommy is leaving but I say, "Isn't grandma bringing presents?" And they all regain control.
The visit with the grandparents(A's parents) is the 2nd part of my hallway walk to make sure I don't cry. I thought I would leave during this part of the visit and make my way to DQ for a buster bar therapy. Nope. Z won't let me leave. If he cannot see me, he is saying "NINA!" KK is also looking to me. I try to take the 2 of them out of the room so that A can have time alone with them. A gets a look of panic in her eyes and I have to tell her that I am not leaving her. We venture down to the bathroom. Helping KK and Z is crawling on the floor between the stalls. Ok, he's on the pottie. Great! He was pottie trained before he came to my house but that has fallen to the way side. Not great. I open the door and a hunk of sh** is on the floor, on the seat and on his pants. Scrub the waistband of his pants in the sink. I have a clean pull-up. Then I go tell the cps office people that there is a mess in the bathroom. 2 of them sit there and stare at me blankly. I repeat myself 3 times. I want to say, "I am not one of them. I am the foster mom. I have a college education. I do not clean sh** off the floor in your office's bathroom." But, I don't. I stay in nice foster-mommy mode. Our case manager is out sick. Another one comes and asks me about the mess. I even am so nice that I say that I can clean it up if I have the products. Nope, she says, I'm cleaning up enough after the kids. She makes the grandma leave the visit to go clean it up. Of course grandma willingly and with the kind of grace that I see daily in A, takes care of the job. Did I mention I was having a crappy day?
What kind of crap is this? These children are so confused. I am an emotional wreck as I witness this struggle of watching the kids try to figure out who to turn to. I hate this.
We leave the visit with new pillow pets, dolls, and a bag of powdered donuts. We have survived and everyone wants to willingly get in my van.
My heart hurts so much for them. A's grandma is telling them to be extra good for Nina. They are all so good. So sweet. I love them.
Speaking of crap, my home group will be so pleased that their prayers are working. Todd changed a poopie pull-up at 5 a.m. Gods is great. My husband is good.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
The Crazy & the Gullible
What a weekend. Where to begin. I guess because the tears are still fresh on my face I try to process what happened about an hour ago as I went in to check on the lil girls. KK grabs my neck as I lean down to give her a kiss. She squeezes me tight & says "Nina, please I want to live here." Tears start up again even as I write this. What can I possibly say to this sweet child? I squeeze her tight, give her kisses, tell her I love her, and good night. It is so unfair for her to have to ask me that. My heart is breaking. Please God, let KK be ok, lead her to the place she is suppose to live.
Backing up to Saturday morning, we actually make it thru the day without too much fan fair. Thank goodness for Caprice and the baby gate. Now I can either keep Z from going upstairs or keep him safe from a marshmallow hunt at night. He slept thru the night! He is so affectionate, loves to cuddle and twirl my hair when he is holding me tight. Its so strange how the 3 siblings have never lived together but they certainly share some of the same characteristics. I'd love to know more of their background & how much time they've spent together. We looked like the traveling circus as we went to Lucas's basketball game. Madeline opted out of going so that gave everyone a seat. I keep thinking back to my first teaching job as a 2 year old preschool teacher. It was the hardest job that I had before I became a mom. I keep having flashbacks to it, especially every mealtime as I line up 6 plates. I've found I need to run my dishwasher after 2 meals. Need to invest in paper plates & cups. KK & Z have definite opinions about what they will eat and won't. A is totally different & pleased with whatever is presented. We played at the school playground for an hour & then headed home to play outside with the neighbor kids for another hour. Hoping to wear everyone out. Lucas had a friend over for a sleepover. 6 kids wasn't enough, thought we'd go for seven.
Sunday morning. Get up at my regular time of 7:30. I have all 7 of the kiddos out the door just one minute past our regular time. Yes, I amaze even myself. Fried eggs, bacon, fresh fruit. Doing funky-do's at the table as everyone eats(sorry health inspector). Laid out everyone's clothes the night before. Luckily everyone gets dressed themselves. Even 3 year old Z insists on dressing himself and gets ugly if I try to help. No one has a melt down. We are a fine old machine. Ok, a small meltdown as we get in the van and Z needs his sippy. Race back in and get it. Return to the van and smell something wicked. I say, " I do not have time to change poopie pants so I hope someone passed some gas." I hear Lucas laughing with glee so I know its safe to take off. My van & 6 kids. Todd & Madeline in his car. Don't want Todd to have too much responsiblity :).
Takes about 10 minutes to register 3 extra kids at church. I make up a birthdate for Z because I have no idea. Get everyone to class. Z cries when I leave him, but the helper informs me he stops shortly after. He is used to going to daycare so I hope I haven't traumatized him. All during church, Todd, Tracy & I look down at the sticker on my pants with the kids number on it any time the board flashes a number for a parent to come get a child. My number is never called. Get teary in church, as I knew I would. So much to think about, so much to prayer about as the future of KK & Z is so unknown. As we sing about the lost and tired, I can't help but think of these children. Sleeping so soundly in their safe little beds in my home.
Its somewhat of a rough day as Z cries anytime something doesn't go exactly his way. Decide to go ahead & leave them all with Lexi & go to homegroup. Well, too bad there wasn't homegroup. Love my homegroup but I was off on my week. I guess having 6 kids can do that to me. Todd & I did a little retail therapy at TJMaxx instead & chocolate molten cake at Chili's. Carmen, you should have come with us. Good thing is babysitter survived & will come back next week.
MVP of the day has to go to Madeline. She & Z bonded as she helped watch him. Can't take your eyes off of him. I wouldn't have been able to do anything if it wasn't for her. Best of all she did it all with a smile, didn't have to shout, bribe, or repeat myself a million times. She is growing up. Of course, what better relationship for a 3 year old sweetie boy who likes to twirl hair than to be held by Princess Rapunzel(I mean, Madeline).
As we are getting ready to leave the "thought we had home group"house, Carmen & Todd are talking about our having 6 children. Todd says, yep, Christina is crazy & I guess I'm gullible. And I guess that's us, the crazy & the gullible. Thank goodness we have God to watch over us.
Backing up to Saturday morning, we actually make it thru the day without too much fan fair. Thank goodness for Caprice and the baby gate. Now I can either keep Z from going upstairs or keep him safe from a marshmallow hunt at night. He slept thru the night! He is so affectionate, loves to cuddle and twirl my hair when he is holding me tight. Its so strange how the 3 siblings have never lived together but they certainly share some of the same characteristics. I'd love to know more of their background & how much time they've spent together. We looked like the traveling circus as we went to Lucas's basketball game. Madeline opted out of going so that gave everyone a seat. I keep thinking back to my first teaching job as a 2 year old preschool teacher. It was the hardest job that I had before I became a mom. I keep having flashbacks to it, especially every mealtime as I line up 6 plates. I've found I need to run my dishwasher after 2 meals. Need to invest in paper plates & cups. KK & Z have definite opinions about what they will eat and won't. A is totally different & pleased with whatever is presented. We played at the school playground for an hour & then headed home to play outside with the neighbor kids for another hour. Hoping to wear everyone out. Lucas had a friend over for a sleepover. 6 kids wasn't enough, thought we'd go for seven.
Sunday morning. Get up at my regular time of 7:30. I have all 7 of the kiddos out the door just one minute past our regular time. Yes, I amaze even myself. Fried eggs, bacon, fresh fruit. Doing funky-do's at the table as everyone eats(sorry health inspector). Laid out everyone's clothes the night before. Luckily everyone gets dressed themselves. Even 3 year old Z insists on dressing himself and gets ugly if I try to help. No one has a melt down. We are a fine old machine. Ok, a small meltdown as we get in the van and Z needs his sippy. Race back in and get it. Return to the van and smell something wicked. I say, " I do not have time to change poopie pants so I hope someone passed some gas." I hear Lucas laughing with glee so I know its safe to take off. My van & 6 kids. Todd & Madeline in his car. Don't want Todd to have too much responsiblity :).
Takes about 10 minutes to register 3 extra kids at church. I make up a birthdate for Z because I have no idea. Get everyone to class. Z cries when I leave him, but the helper informs me he stops shortly after. He is used to going to daycare so I hope I haven't traumatized him. All during church, Todd, Tracy & I look down at the sticker on my pants with the kids number on it any time the board flashes a number for a parent to come get a child. My number is never called. Get teary in church, as I knew I would. So much to think about, so much to prayer about as the future of KK & Z is so unknown. As we sing about the lost and tired, I can't help but think of these children. Sleeping so soundly in their safe little beds in my home.
Its somewhat of a rough day as Z cries anytime something doesn't go exactly his way. Decide to go ahead & leave them all with Lexi & go to homegroup. Well, too bad there wasn't homegroup. Love my homegroup but I was off on my week. I guess having 6 kids can do that to me. Todd & I did a little retail therapy at TJMaxx instead & chocolate molten cake at Chili's. Carmen, you should have come with us. Good thing is babysitter survived & will come back next week.
MVP of the day has to go to Madeline. She & Z bonded as she helped watch him. Can't take your eyes off of him. I wouldn't have been able to do anything if it wasn't for her. Best of all she did it all with a smile, didn't have to shout, bribe, or repeat myself a million times. She is growing up. Of course, what better relationship for a 3 year old sweetie boy who likes to twirl hair than to be held by Princess Rapunzel(I mean, Madeline).
As we are getting ready to leave the "thought we had home group"house, Carmen & Todd are talking about our having 6 children. Todd says, yep, Christina is crazy & I guess I'm gullible. And I guess that's us, the crazy & the gullible. Thank goodness we have God to watch over us.
Friday, January 21, 2011
2 More Angels to Love
The storm blew into my house today around 12:30. All the way home from preschool, A kept saying when are they coming?? And in they came. Sweet, sweet children with 4 tubs of clothes, 2 big black trash sacks of toys and shoes. The case manager stayed for 4 hours. It took at least 3 of those hours to inventory the clothes. You have to have a written log of everything the kids bring in. The reason why it took 3 hours is because I've forgotten about a 3 year old little boy. I kept having flashbacks to another active little boy. I must have chased Z at least 5 times up the stairs and then carried him down. Yes, I was out of breath every time. He did a head first accidental flip of the back of the blue banquet in the dining room. Lucky the case manager was still here. Lucky he's a toughie cause he barely cried. Got more tears out of him when he snuck the bag of marshmallow under the dining room table. Got one eaten before I could catch him. Took the bag & the crocodile tears began. Tied the bag shut real tight and gave it back to him. 15 minutes later it was untied so I tied it up again. He tried biting thru the bag but wasn't successful. In the meantime Lucas finally comes home. Got him a soccer ball to play with but he was mad cause he wanted a football.
About 4 we finally got all the paperwork complete & now I'm the official foster mom of 3. 3 little girls had a little drama when A got left behind. This was to be expected. 2's company, 3's a crowd. Proud of Camille for helping thru the situation. Lucas played with A & Z. Nerf basketball! Got showers for Camille & KK. Asked Z if he wanted a bath. He ran to the bathroom & was stripped down before I even got the water turned on.
Missing Madeline tonight. She would be such a help, just having an extra set of eyes to keep on the wild man 3 year old would be great. She's a party pooper at a sleepover.
Z said he wasn't going to bed. Read the same book to him 3 times and each time he snuggled a little bit closer & fell asleep in my lap. Taped a piece of butcher paper over the bottom of his door so that I can hear it if he gets up in the middle of the night. Great aunt says that he gets up about 3 times at night. Please prayer this isn't the case here.
KK must have told me at least 4 times, "you are so nice to let us come here." I reassured her that it was she that is so nice & how lucky I was to have her. Its hard to fathom what her little mind must be processing. So well mannered, yes ma'm, please and thank you. My heart is once again so full as I have two more angels to love tonight.
About 4 we finally got all the paperwork complete & now I'm the official foster mom of 3. 3 little girls had a little drama when A got left behind. This was to be expected. 2's company, 3's a crowd. Proud of Camille for helping thru the situation. Lucas played with A & Z. Nerf basketball! Got showers for Camille & KK. Asked Z if he wanted a bath. He ran to the bathroom & was stripped down before I even got the water turned on.
Missing Madeline tonight. She would be such a help, just having an extra set of eyes to keep on the wild man 3 year old would be great. She's a party pooper at a sleepover.
Z said he wasn't going to bed. Read the same book to him 3 times and each time he snuggled a little bit closer & fell asleep in my lap. Taped a piece of butcher paper over the bottom of his door so that I can hear it if he gets up in the middle of the night. Great aunt says that he gets up about 3 times at night. Please prayer this isn't the case here.
KK must have told me at least 4 times, "you are so nice to let us come here." I reassured her that it was she that is so nice & how lucky I was to have her. Its hard to fathom what her little mind must be processing. So well mannered, yes ma'm, please and thank you. My heart is once again so full as I have two more angels to love tonight.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Eight is Enough
When I stay up until midnight I've found that it's easier to go sleep in sweats that way the next morning I don't have to worry about getting dressed. Even better, when I'm too tired to dry my hair, I just dig in Todd's drawer and pull a stocking cap down over my wet head. Of course my hair is pretty short right now. I let Madeline cut it for me. She didn't cut me or herself so I figure that's a success. I think that everyone in the house has longer hair than me, except for Camille.
Well, its going to happen. Eight is enough will be our lives beginning tomorrow. I loved that show as a kid. Shelley was curious as to how I'd like living it. We'll son find out. A's lil bro & sis are going to stay with us for a couple of weeks. Of course I loved how my friend Kim laughed when I said just for 2 weeks part. That's the plan. Spent the day cleaning & preparing. Office stuff moved out of guest room(thanks Kristi) and blocks and trains moved in. Squished A's stuff over to make room for KK. We are ready. A trip to the grocery store in morning and I'll be good to go. We went out for dinner tonight. I figured it was the last time out for a while. Going to hunker down and get lots of quality time at home. Anxious & excited about what God has in store. We can do this!
Well, its going to happen. Eight is enough will be our lives beginning tomorrow. I loved that show as a kid. Shelley was curious as to how I'd like living it. We'll son find out. A's lil bro & sis are going to stay with us for a couple of weeks. Of course I loved how my friend Kim laughed when I said just for 2 weeks part. That's the plan. Spent the day cleaning & preparing. Office stuff moved out of guest room(thanks Kristi) and blocks and trains moved in. Squished A's stuff over to make room for KK. We are ready. A trip to the grocery store in morning and I'll be good to go. We went out for dinner tonight. I figured it was the last time out for a while. Going to hunker down and get lots of quality time at home. Anxious & excited about what God has in store. We can do this!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Stay tuned
Wowsers, where has the time gone. I feel like I've been running in circles. It took me almost a week to get 6 people packed to go on a long weekend trip to Taos. Socks, gloves, multi-layers, and a big thanks to Linda & Kim for letting us borrow. Madeline looked like a fashion queen on the slopes. I hear from her dad that she's really a great skier for this just being her second time. I survived, or rather, Camille survived a week of the flu. Was diagnosed last Monday & got the ok on Thursday to go on the ski trip. Eleven hours in the car and we made it. Todd is absolutely in love with snowboarding. Lucas tags right along. They are the cutest snowboarders with their floppy blonde hair hanging out from under their helmets. The van made it via chains on the front tires. A & Camille played in the snow. A loved it. She wasn't sure when Lucas started pelting her with snow balls, but she did give it right back. A true member of the family. I was dreading the trip. Don't like the cold. If I'm going to have to keep up with a house, it might as well be the one I live in. But. . . it wasn't so bad. Still a lot of work, but the sun was shining, I didn't get cold, and the views were spectacular. I won't be buying a snowboard anytime soon, but I guess I can keep the fire going.
Got home on Monday night, thanks MLK for the day off on Monday. Yes, we did take time out from video equipment to mention the significance of the day. Kids back in school on Tuesday & I took A to see her parents. We brought pics for them to see & they were so thrilled she had a great time. I always see genuine warmth, compassion, and thankfulness when I see them.
I asked my kids when I got home that night what my fav store is. "Target?" Well, a close second. "Home Depot?" no, "Lowe's?" YES! And I felt like rushing to my fav store after A's visit because I learned something new. Lowe's is helping A's parents get their home in order so that it will be safe for A to return to. Not sure how the 2 partnered up but I am so thankful. There are 3 churches that are also pitching in to help get them back on their feet. I give thanks to all those helping A's parents. It seems like everything is going so well.
God whispers in my ear again on Tuesday when the case worker tells me that A's brother & sister will not be able to stay at their relatives house anymore. Can't go into the details only can say that this is the 3 & 5 year old that I get to see almost every week at the supervised visits. I keep picturing in my mind going to the animal shelter and playing with the puppies. Who can leave without wanting to take one? Anyway, I left the visit struggling with what I am suppose to do. God has clearly guided me along this entire journey and I knew He would provide in this instance, too. Got home after doing a sidetrip to see Camille at dance. That girl is such a great dancer. As I was thinking about adding 2 more to the mix I still didn't know what to do. You know, if I had a big ole school bus, I'd probably not even hesitate. I kept picturing myself & 6 kids in the van and poor Todd having to follow behind in his car (all by himself) since my van only holds 7. I called case manager this morning and said that I felt like the best thing to do was for us to take a back seat and see if she could get a couple of other family members to take the kids. That was this morning. At 4 I got the email from A's attorney, also KK & Z's (KK= big sister, Z=lil bro)attorney asking if we could keep the kids for a couple of weeks while they get a home study completed for a family member. I knew that once again, God has given me a clear answer on what we are to do. I've got a thumbs up from every member of the fam, even Camille. I'll give case manager a call in the morning, and we'll see what happens next. Stay tuned. . .
Got home on Monday night, thanks MLK for the day off on Monday. Yes, we did take time out from video equipment to mention the significance of the day. Kids back in school on Tuesday & I took A to see her parents. We brought pics for them to see & they were so thrilled she had a great time. I always see genuine warmth, compassion, and thankfulness when I see them.
I asked my kids when I got home that night what my fav store is. "Target?" Well, a close second. "Home Depot?" no, "Lowe's?" YES! And I felt like rushing to my fav store after A's visit because I learned something new. Lowe's is helping A's parents get their home in order so that it will be safe for A to return to. Not sure how the 2 partnered up but I am so thankful. There are 3 churches that are also pitching in to help get them back on their feet. I give thanks to all those helping A's parents. It seems like everything is going so well.
God whispers in my ear again on Tuesday when the case worker tells me that A's brother & sister will not be able to stay at their relatives house anymore. Can't go into the details only can say that this is the 3 & 5 year old that I get to see almost every week at the supervised visits. I keep picturing in my mind going to the animal shelter and playing with the puppies. Who can leave without wanting to take one? Anyway, I left the visit struggling with what I am suppose to do. God has clearly guided me along this entire journey and I knew He would provide in this instance, too. Got home after doing a sidetrip to see Camille at dance. That girl is such a great dancer. As I was thinking about adding 2 more to the mix I still didn't know what to do. You know, if I had a big ole school bus, I'd probably not even hesitate. I kept picturing myself & 6 kids in the van and poor Todd having to follow behind in his car (all by himself) since my van only holds 7. I called case manager this morning and said that I felt like the best thing to do was for us to take a back seat and see if she could get a couple of other family members to take the kids. That was this morning. At 4 I got the email from A's attorney, also KK & Z's (KK= big sister, Z=lil bro)attorney asking if we could keep the kids for a couple of weeks while they get a home study completed for a family member. I knew that once again, God has given me a clear answer on what we are to do. I've got a thumbs up from every member of the fam, even Camille. I'll give case manager a call in the morning, and we'll see what happens next. Stay tuned. . .
Monday, January 10, 2011
First Day of School
First day of school for A! She had a great one. The kids were all so excited for her. Walked into class without looking back at me. Got her stuff put away & went right to work at the center. Mrs. P & I were talking. So thankful that A has her for a teacher. Camille says she is the best teacher ever. Probably because Mrs. P & Camille have some of the same sassy personality. I guess I was talking too long because A announces,"Nina, Nina, you can go home now." I laughed and did as I was told. This child has come such a long ways. It was just seven weeks ago that I took her to Sunday school for the first time and she asked if I would come back and get her. I am so thankful to have witnessed this transformation in trust. She loved everything. Her favorite part was painting on toilet paper. Not exactly sure what that is, but it sure made her smile.
Poor Camille is sick with the stinkin flu. I would have sworn it was just another sinus infection. The kid has been tested 2 times for the flu & its always turned out to be sinus infections. Glad that its not a sinus infection but I feel like a super lousy mom for never having got the kid her flu shot. It seemed like there was never a time when she was well enough to get it then I just became a slacker. Did get her started on tamiflu. I sure hope it helps. This afternoon it really hit & there is no doubt its not a sinus infection. Poor sweet baby. Clorox wipes, paper towels, and lysol are now stationed everywhere. Praying that no one else gets it.
Poor Camille is sick with the stinkin flu. I would have sworn it was just another sinus infection. The kid has been tested 2 times for the flu & its always turned out to be sinus infections. Glad that its not a sinus infection but I feel like a super lousy mom for never having got the kid her flu shot. It seemed like there was never a time when she was well enough to get it then I just became a slacker. Did get her started on tamiflu. I sure hope it helps. This afternoon it really hit & there is no doubt its not a sinus infection. Poor sweet baby. Clorox wipes, paper towels, and lysol are now stationed everywhere. Praying that no one else gets it.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Silverware
Christmas is packed away. Waited later than usual this year since Todd was gone over New Year's. A little strange with this being the 1st Christmas in this house. I loved my Christmas decorations and feel more sad than usual as the house is so bear. Felt even more strange as I was tucking the stockings away and folded A's stocking to be stored until next year. Only not sure where she will be next year. I guess my "best case scenario" is that her grandparents get the new house and grandma gets her job. She told me that she looks at the picture of A that we gave her for Christmas every day as inspiration. I hope that they can get their lives together for A and that she can go back. I hope that we will be able to continue to see her and that next Christmas she can come visit and her stocking will be waiting here for her. I truly believe that all of that is so attainable.
I love having a 4 year old help me with chores. Well, almost always. Yesterday I asked her to help me empty the silverware and she went into a 10 minute crying spell. I'm thinking that the big kids really had rubbed off on her and that helping with the dishwasher must really be something awful. Lucas even offered to help here. Finally she dried the tears and tackled the job. One spoon into the drawer and she says"Nina, this is fun." Geez, one more person to add to the drama of the stanfam. She fits in so well. Since then she has emptied the silverware at least twice. Yes, I need a commercial sized dishwasher. She says that it is just like playing the matching game she got for Christmas. I love a cheerful worker! She joyfully put away ornaments, emptied trash, and anything else I assigned her. Hoping that she will rub off on the older kids but doesn't seem to plausible at this point.
She continues to thrive and will get to start preschool on Monday. I am so excited for her. I'm excited for me, too. I love getting to go to Trietsch. So many friends that I get to see. So many to add to the mix of loving this lil girl. I know she will love school. She is so smart and will learn so fast.
I love having a 4 year old help me with chores. Well, almost always. Yesterday I asked her to help me empty the silverware and she went into a 10 minute crying spell. I'm thinking that the big kids really had rubbed off on her and that helping with the dishwasher must really be something awful. Lucas even offered to help here. Finally she dried the tears and tackled the job. One spoon into the drawer and she says"Nina, this is fun." Geez, one more person to add to the drama of the stanfam. She fits in so well. Since then she has emptied the silverware at least twice. Yes, I need a commercial sized dishwasher. She says that it is just like playing the matching game she got for Christmas. I love a cheerful worker! She joyfully put away ornaments, emptied trash, and anything else I assigned her. Hoping that she will rub off on the older kids but doesn't seem to plausible at this point.
She continues to thrive and will get to start preschool on Monday. I am so excited for her. I'm excited for me, too. I love getting to go to Trietsch. So many friends that I get to see. So many to add to the mix of loving this lil girl. I know she will love school. She is so smart and will learn so fast.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Veggies & Fruit
I sit at the dinner table and wonder who these children are that are growing up so fast. I love hearing Madeline bubbling over with so many stories from her day, Lucas adding in his say(flashing his huge bruise on his shoulder from tag at recess), Camille & A listening. A has taken to being our primary prayer girl. She always wants to pray, and she is good at it. I guess that is a little bad to say, I mean, how can you be bad at praying. It is interesting to listen to her and see the other 3 listen. She is setting a great example for all of us. Todd missed out on dinner tonight. Superman flew to Houston and then back to Dallas for a meeting. Usually when he's gone we order a pizza, break open the mac & cheese, perhaps splurge with some hot dogs. Now, we are promoting healthy eating. Roasted chicken, brown rice, cooked carrots, zucchini. Geez, what's happening. I think the only person missing it is me. The thing about the kids is that they'll eat pretty much whatever I give them. That's a lot of pressure on me. My hidden stash of junk is almost diminished, luckily, Lucas brought me home a new stash of laffy taffy. Gotta love banana laffy taffy.
A had visit with mommy(grandma) yesterday. She's really been missing her. I thought about getting her phone number so that we could call her sometime but the more I think about it I feel like its opening a whole other can of worms. They were definitely happy to see each other. Mommy asked for prayers for the house they may get, and she has also applied for a job. I hope that both those things happen for her. Please join me in my prayers for her. It is still so strange to me the process of all of this. How it takes losing custody of a child to get your life together. Of course, I also think of no better reason to get one's life together than for this sweet child living with us. Out of the blue the other day she asks if she is going to live with me forever. I didn't give her a direct answer but asked why was she asking this. She didn't know. She has certainly flourished at our home and I catch myself thinking what would life be like for her if she did stay with us. All I can do is establish as many good things as I can while we are blessed with her presence. I guess if that means veggies, fruit, and roasted chicken, I can certainly do it. I do miss my mac&cheese.
A had visit with mommy(grandma) yesterday. She's really been missing her. I thought about getting her phone number so that we could call her sometime but the more I think about it I feel like its opening a whole other can of worms. They were definitely happy to see each other. Mommy asked for prayers for the house they may get, and she has also applied for a job. I hope that both those things happen for her. Please join me in my prayers for her. It is still so strange to me the process of all of this. How it takes losing custody of a child to get your life together. Of course, I also think of no better reason to get one's life together than for this sweet child living with us. Out of the blue the other day she asks if she is going to live with me forever. I didn't give her a direct answer but asked why was she asking this. She didn't know. She has certainly flourished at our home and I catch myself thinking what would life be like for her if she did stay with us. All I can do is establish as many good things as I can while we are blessed with her presence. I guess if that means veggies, fruit, and roasted chicken, I can certainly do it. I do miss my mac&cheese.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
FAT
I got all snuggled on my sofa last night with my handy new iPad in hand ready to do a lil bloggin when the thing wouldn't pull up the screen to type on. So aggravating. Have to rely on the old tried & true laptop.
Yesterday I was so proud of myself for getting clean sheets on almost every one's beds. I think that's probably one of my most hated tasks. And to think that in the foster care live-by manual it says to change sheets once a week. Good grief, I know that's what I'm suppose to do. Tucked the girls into their clean beds and not 4 hours later, Camille gets sick. Does she get sick on her new pillow pet or her new blanket that can both be washed? No, misses them, but gets the clean sheets and the new carpet. 45 minutes and a roll of paper towels. The joys of motherhood.
Since I'm up in the middle of the night unable to sleep I'm trying to decide what to do about A and preschool. I'd originally thought that she would qualify in some area to go to the early childhood program at our elementary. Anymore I'm thinking that she won't qualify. I totally overachieved & taught her way too much. I was thinking about TEC or Flower Mound UMC. My heart belongs to TEC but it would sure be convenient just to cross the street. I'm remembering Lucas going to TEC & how they make the cute handprint shirts at the beginning of the year. He switched there mid-year(got kicked out of Flower Mound UMC, that's another story) so he didn't have the t-shirt. They dug an old one up for him. It didn't have the same kids names or handprints but he didn't know the difference. I'm wondering what A would do. Today, I'm cleaning my closet and what do I run across. Camille's TEC handprint shirt. No idea why it is there, well, ok. God whispers in my ear. I'm going by TEC tomorrow. That brings me to another story. While I found Camille's t-shirt, I know it won't fit A. I'm reminded of last night's dinner episode. Madeline made us a yummy dinner of manicotti. She loves to cook. Camille stands up afterwards, lifts her shirt and says,"I'm fat." To which A stands up, lifts her shirt and states,"Well, see this." I quickly head to the pantry where I can laugh without an audience. I text Todd the scenario, and he types,"Don't want C to think she's fat. Don't want A to know she's fat." Geez, the pressures of the term fat. Actually that's a word we're not even suppose to use in this house. You can tell what control I have.
I'll be glad to have my boys home tomorrow, too. They ran away to Colorado & New Mexico for some snowboarding. I think Todd would have us move to a lil cabin off the slopes. The thought of snow is enough to make me cold. The house has been quiet without them. I'm not looking forward to being back on the crazy schedule of school. I've enjoyed having everyone home. I do love my family.
Yesterday I was so proud of myself for getting clean sheets on almost every one's beds. I think that's probably one of my most hated tasks. And to think that in the foster care live-by manual it says to change sheets once a week. Good grief, I know that's what I'm suppose to do. Tucked the girls into their clean beds and not 4 hours later, Camille gets sick. Does she get sick on her new pillow pet or her new blanket that can both be washed? No, misses them, but gets the clean sheets and the new carpet. 45 minutes and a roll of paper towels. The joys of motherhood.
Since I'm up in the middle of the night unable to sleep I'm trying to decide what to do about A and preschool. I'd originally thought that she would qualify in some area to go to the early childhood program at our elementary. Anymore I'm thinking that she won't qualify. I totally overachieved & taught her way too much. I was thinking about TEC or Flower Mound UMC. My heart belongs to TEC but it would sure be convenient just to cross the street. I'm remembering Lucas going to TEC & how they make the cute handprint shirts at the beginning of the year. He switched there mid-year(got kicked out of Flower Mound UMC, that's another story) so he didn't have the t-shirt. They dug an old one up for him. It didn't have the same kids names or handprints but he didn't know the difference. I'm wondering what A would do. Today, I'm cleaning my closet and what do I run across. Camille's TEC handprint shirt. No idea why it is there, well, ok. God whispers in my ear. I'm going by TEC tomorrow. That brings me to another story. While I found Camille's t-shirt, I know it won't fit A. I'm reminded of last night's dinner episode. Madeline made us a yummy dinner of manicotti. She loves to cook. Camille stands up afterwards, lifts her shirt and says,"I'm fat." To which A stands up, lifts her shirt and states,"Well, see this." I quickly head to the pantry where I can laugh without an audience. I text Todd the scenario, and he types,"Don't want C to think she's fat. Don't want A to know she's fat." Geez, the pressures of the term fat. Actually that's a word we're not even suppose to use in this house. You can tell what control I have.
I'll be glad to have my boys home tomorrow, too. They ran away to Colorado & New Mexico for some snowboarding. I think Todd would have us move to a lil cabin off the slopes. The thought of snow is enough to make me cold. The house has been quiet without them. I'm not looking forward to being back on the crazy schedule of school. I've enjoyed having everyone home. I do love my family.
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