Saturday, April 4, 2009

Productive Weekend

The chaos that consumes us is the bathroom remodel, and like any other home improvement one project leads to a list. This weekend found me home on Friday for Conference Exchange day. My mom and I tackled cleaning out the old insulation from the attic and then putting in new fresh pink insulation. We also primed the walls and painted the bathroom; waiting for Mike to come and hang the vanity early next week. We've covered the attic floor with wood to make a new storage area for our stuff.

Between the sweat we've found time to go to the Zoo and enjoy the one nice day amongst the cold and possible upcoming snow! Productive weekends feel good and I'm hoping to get in one good restful day; especially when the bathroom is finished.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

I Really Thought I Was Trying!

Again I find myself beginning a blog with the disclaimer that "I am happy to be living where I'm living and I am happy for the help my family offers me".

Today was a difficult day amongst an emotionally difficult week. You know how some weeks can be emotionally difficult for yourself or you can find yourself drained emotionally because you are worried about another person. The latter has been my week. A close friend of mine made a big mistake and got caught. A DUI! Not a good thing, not something I'm proud of for them, but reality and it happens. I've worked hard to help this friend out this week, with driving, a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on, advice, and even leading difficult discussions. It's been hard but it's been something that I've wanted to do. I've done it because I've wanted to not because I wanted a Thank you or anything else in return. Within this process things at home and even with other friends has become tense. My mind is focused on work, B, and this friend. My focus has caused me to forget some of my other obligations, such as picking up dog food and editing a paper. The absence of completing these duties was not out of a lack of concern or thinking they lacked importance, it was out of plan old forgetfulness.
My mother has decided that these two task show my lack of concern for family and my selfishness of "requiring" family to support me but not offering up my time or energy in return. I'm deeply hurt by her words. I keep telling myself she's just over exhausted because of an extra crazy work schedule and isn't thinking straight or clear. But seriously, does she really think I'm that selfish? Do I really not do for others?
I'm in tears; thinking I'm trying so hard to be a good single mom, raise a good stable young man, be a reliable and available sister, be a grateful daughter, be a dependable and hardworking principal, and a solid friend to the people I care about all without forgetting to take care of me and breathe. I'm at a loss. I'm babbling. I don't know what to do differently or how to change her perception of me. Goodness I just need a hug! These times of frustration amplify my desire to not be alone...to share in some of these jobs....to have someone to hug me when I need it. Oh how this blog has crossed many issues! WHAT AN EVENING!!!!

Monday, March 16, 2009

Judy and Fred

Well it's been a long winter in our household for the dogs. They were certainly affected by the severe cold we experienced in the Ohio area. In order to be good conscious owners both my mom and I decided to allow their fur to grow in the hopes that it would be enough warmth (no crazy sweaters for our pups)!

Now that we are approaching spring and the fur has started floating across the wood floors a hair cut was needed for both of our four legged guys. So Jack and Fritz were off to the groomer. They returned with SUPER short cuts. Apparently, Jack in particular, had a bunch of matting.

Brogen entered the house, paused, and took a double take. He turned to Nana with a perplexed look. Her immediate response was "Jack and Fritz left us, I went and got Judy and Fred". We are still questioning if B knows that this name change is a joke, but he is very insistent on calling the four legged friends Judy and Fred! It's hilarious! He is adamant telling anyone who walks through the front door and greats the dogs with "Hey Jack" or "Hey Fritz" that those are new dogs with new names!

Duh!!!!! Can't you tell they look different!
And we adults stand by wondering if the he is playing along with the joke or really believes us!

Sunday, March 8, 2009

A Breath of Fresh Air!

What a beautiful weekend! The temperature rose to the mid seventies, the sun peeked out between the grey clouds every once in a while, and the breeze lets us believe that the spring was blowing in! How nice it was to get outside with B for some outdoor play. We spent several hours at the Zoo. He's actually starting to notice the animals instead of purely running to the train and toy shop. His most favorite part is using the map, directing me to all the different animals, as I silently breath a sigh of relief that he will have some sense of direction! We also spent several hours on "big wheel road trips" while mommy followed on foot. It was my yet another realization of how big he is getting! He can actually pedal, direct the big wheel, and go down hills as compared to last spring...him sitting and whining while I walked ahead wishing he could keep up! Now I find myself wishing he'd slow down so I could make sure he doesn't dart into the city street. My how things have changed. What's to come? :)

Friday, March 6, 2009

I Must Be Out of My Mind!

So my goal in life, well the one at the moment that has not been accomplished, is to find "the one"! So it's apparent by my previous "dating" patterns have not only been less than successful but have also been destructive to my self-esteem as well. So a couple of my girl friends who sit in similar "boat" as I am got together and decided to do a book study on dating. We're working through the book "Love In 90 Days".

I've learned that I do not make myself open to men. So I've been focused on saying hello and smiling more....lol instead of looking at them like "what do you want?". I've also have been attempting to accept dates from men I may have not previously been attracted to. It's silly but amazing that I really am feeling better about myself as more men smile back or speak. The book recommends dating in threes, meaning trying to date more than one guy at a time. This method apparently, I haven't accomplished that, keeps one from obsessing over a guy, or giving him so much attention that he runs!

Tonight we were out to dinner and it struck me our waiter was handsome, fun, good with the boys, and a hard worker. I blew caution to the wind and left my number. The note said: "You have a great smile and are such a harder worker. I'd be interested in chatting sometime." I signed it, left my number, and then honestly my sanity came back and I ran for sheer embarrassment. So will he call? I don't know, but what I do know is that I made a step. A step in the direction of "why wouldn't he want my number I'm a catch"! A step away from hibernating away for fear of rejection. So if he (Anthony) calls great, if he doesn't...his loss.....RIGHT!?

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Bed Time Funnies!

B has been such a handful when the sun goes down. It is very obvious to me that he loves to distract me from and prolong the process as often as possible. Some evenings I'm just too tired to fight it other nights I feel like I could conquer anything he would throw at me!

Last night was a "I'm going to hold strong night". We took a calming bath, read 5 books (one for each of his years and one to grown on)! We sang a song and I rubbed his back for 5 min. (which felt like 20). I quietly stood up to go about my business and the kid started into a heart throbbing sad cry. He began a monologue about wanting a brofer and sisfer! He was adamant that his bed "stinks" not as in smells bad but as in "sucks". I explained in an oh so calm voice that only God can send us brothers and sisters, and maybe we should pray for that to happen. My son becomes quiet for a moment and then the sobbing begins again. "Mom I don't know how to pray for that!" I rub his back and say well you just ask God for what you want and then he'll work on it. So B begins "God, I want a brofer and sisfer. I want them to sweep with me cause my bed stinks" He pauses, rolls over to me, and says "Well where are they?"
Dear oh dear, I did not expect for him to think that a new brother or sister would just appear. So my heart ached, after I of coarse told him he should tell Nana what he prayed for! HA, she probably had a heart attack! I invited B to sleep in my bed and told him I knew he was lonely. So we cuddled. What happened to "I will hold strong"? Who knows, but damn we slept great.

I awoke this morning to a four year old with no pj pants or underwear on. I questioned him "B, why don't you have any pants on?" He replied very matter of fact, "Cause when my penis gets tall I have to play with it". Stunned I stutter "Oh, okay". How is one to respond to that? He kills me! It's all I can do not to laugh!

Saturday, January 31, 2009

My new addiction!

So January has brought about many surprises. The start of the year in the hospital with the dog bite, B being sick for a little over a week, B's birthday, my stomach virus, Nana's birthday, and four snow days to round out the month. It's been crazy. Needless to say my "Resolutions" have not been off to a smashing start. Walking has been slim due to illness and extreme low temps and ice storms. The Doctorate has been put off until next year due to deadlines. the time spent at home during this cold weather has brought me to enjoy "Face book". I swore I'd never do it...and now I'm glad I am! I've reconnected with friends from my past. We've had fun reminding each other of stories and events that either of us had forgotten, we've planned to reconnect for dinner, we're planning on getting our kids together for play dates! It's fun!! It's also fun to see pics that people I talk with frequently post. Bantering back and forth on each others walls is entertaining as well. Additionally I'm addicted to a couple of the games like Sudoku, Who Has The Biggest Brain, and Scramble. Now I'm searching for a balance between life and face book; work and face book; breathing/blinking and face book! Wish me luck and I'd love to see you on my friends list (if you dare)!

Monday, January 26, 2009

Be careful what you wish for!

So for those of you who aren't clear, B and I live with my parents for the time being. Although the set up is amazing and helpful the quarters are tight; which involves the two of us sharing a bedroom. He's been very restless as far as sleeping goes and I've been wishing for a "break".
Nana, granted my wish! She and B went to Dayton to visit Granny Great for four days. Of coarse I missed the lil fella but truth be told I was stoked! I was ready to run free, even if that did mean working-out after work, going to the grocery alone, or not watching Sponge-Bob.
No kidding as soon as the two of them hit I-75 I started coming down with a NASTY stomach virus. The kind where you are thankful that you don't have a grandiose bathroom. I pushed through work on Thursday and Friday...thinking just make it until 4 and then you can rest. HAHAHAHAHa
Friday, around 1 a student of ours had a major behavioral meltdown. This episode lasted until 3:30, before we decided we needed to call 911. Seriously, no family member would get in touch with us, not even after 15 calls. As the ambulance rolled in to take him I suddenly realized that I was on, as far as being the District Representative. Yes, my friends I had to ride in the Ambulance to the hospital. This poor 10 year old had no, I repeat NO, family show up. I in good conscious couldn't leave him, especially after he looked me dead in the eyes and said "Ms. W, you aren't gonna leave me here alone are you?" So I sat. I sat with this boy as he weaved in and out of crisis. I sat as we waited for the hospital to decide if he needed to be admitted to the Children's Mental Facility. At 11, yes 7 hours after I thought I would be resting, the hospital admitted him and I was no longer allowed to stay. (a fact that I was almost thankful for)
So the way I figure it, I asked for a "break" from my own son but by default gained the work of another mother, one who apparently needed a break too. The end to my week made me thankful for the time and energy that B takes up because he so healthy, happy, and loving. Spending time, even if it is battling bed time wars is so much easier and pleasant than taking on someone else's issues. Please remind me of that the next time I'm looking for a "break".
As for me and the virus....well it hung around all weekend and I've planned to take Monday off. Tuesday I should be rip roarin' ready to go!

Sunday, January 18, 2009

The Birthday Party

Today, as far as B is concerned is the day that he turned to 4. Nana and grandpa made a airplane cake. Uncle Kel and Catee, Uncle Ben and Aunt Megan came over for a dinner. We opened presents and spent a quick quality time. B opened clothes; not exactly his favorite but necessary for his upcoming trip. He got a fantastic spider man lamp, hot wheels town, and a transformer. His little hands didn't know what to grab first but he was a happy guy. As I put him to bed he said "Mom I love my birthday." Was it because he felt special or because he got gifts. Either way he's cute and 4! Where does time go?

Friday, January 9, 2009

Is There Enough Room?

Just so I can remember how sweet some of the things that B says:

1. At 2:00 am; "Mommy is there enough room for me?" as he asks to sleep in my bed.

2. "Mommy will you do me a "favorite"?" (means: will you do me a favorite)

3. No fanks

4. "Mommy you know what I'm thinkin you thinkin?" "Do ya?"

B - There will always be room for you with me! As we approach your 4th Birthday I remember how far you've come. As I see your long legs climb up on the furniture I remember you curled up in my arms at the hospital. I not only cherish the moments we have had but look forward to the places we'll be going together.

I Love you!

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Welcome 2009!



Before the new year arrived I like many people sat down and made a plan for the upcoming year. the difference between this year and previous years is that I'm making a plan not a resolution! We'll see if that makes a difference.
1. I'm planning on walking another 1/2 marathon in the spring.
2. I'm planning to prepare to start the 2010 year off with a full marathon.
3. I'm planning on applying for a Doctorate program.
(I think that's enough for personal planning)

So how did it all start off. Well my plans are in action and my training is on the go. The rest of life however flopped!

On January 1 B was bitten by our neighbors dog. The bite is on his face and is rather ugly. We spent several hours in the Emergency Room. We left with stitches, lots of antibiotics, and an exhausted family. He seems to be recovering well, although the medicine regime is difficult. We've met with "the dog" and forgave her. All is working back towards happy!

January 2 left me sitting at a dinner table (in public) all alone. It's called being stood up for a blind date. I haven't heard the reason yet, and maybe I really don't want to. I'm not nearly as devastated today as I was that evening; however I did stay and eat the meal. I was impressed that I didn't run...growth is a beautiful thing.

Even though the first two days of 2009 brought not so fun surprises I'm feeling good about the upcoming year!

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Santa Called!


Many of my post have shared how much talking B does. Well tonight was the most quiet, even during sleeping that I've heard him be! Santa called! From the North Pole non-the-less! The caller ID said North Pole. The man's voice was nothing but genuine. He even knew B's name! What a treat.


B stood in one spot, swaying back and forth and grinning from ear to ear! He continuously smiled at me while nodding his head at every word he heard. B reports that Santa said that he will come when we are sleeping, that the elves are working hard, and that he's gonna bring B "cool stuff". Well isn't that dandy!

Saturday, December 20, 2008

I Absolutly Love This!

Typically I don't have a problem talking about things (writing in this forum), however I can't find the correct words to describe how much I love watching the joy, spirit, and positive excitement of my son this season. So please excuse the random ramblings of this entry!
Every little corner, day or night, brings an exciting new something to talk about. The lights, the mystery, the family. He's running of room to room asking about every little ornament, candle, and decoration. He talks to anyone about Santa, Jesus, and parties.
This evening we had some time at home alone. I needed to spend some moments cleaning for our Family Christmas Party tomorrow morning. I wanted to clean the floors and set the table. He was so ginger when walking across the floor, even after it dried. He ran around the circle table setting the plates and silverware in their proper place. (NOTE: I'm not implying that he's a genius; I was telling him...but still he WANTED to help)! He's saying cute things like "mommy if we go to sleep Santa will come" and "can you sing that "Chwistmas" song again?". He's tickled pink with the gifts people give him, even the smallest thing. I love him for all of this! I love being his mom! I'm feeling very blessed, very happy, very calm, and pleased that 2008 has brought me to these moments and feelings!

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Tis the Season

Well it's here! The pressure cooker of excitement! The anticipation of seeing Santa on every corner. The love of lights, chocolates, and mysterious gifts that randomly appear!

We've begun a couple of weeks ago looking for the all the Holiday events. We've enjoyed spending time with family and friends. The Festival of Lights at the Zoo was great; especially through the eyes of an almost 4 year old. You would have thought we'd never rode the train before. His eyes wouldn't' blink when he spoke with the Talking Christmas White Tigers. The 4-D movie of Polar Express was way on the top of the excitement factor. We've seen trains, trees, ice skating rinks.

I'm enjoying the excitement; at least when it doesn't involve the typical child meltdown. I'm looking forward to the fun games to come. Like the Gibbs in NC! They have a contest in the car each year where they see who can find the most flame head decorations (you know the candle sticks with big flames that people decorate their yard with). I tried to wiggle my way into this game by calling out all the candy canes; but it's not the same when you're not in the car with people who want/are playing with you! B doesn't know it but this game is in our future and I'M GOING TO BE THE WINNER! :0

May your holiday events bring smiles to your face and warmth to your heart!

Monday, December 1, 2008

Forced Family Fun

Well we did it; our "Forced Family Fun" trip was a success. Granny took my Aunt Di, cousin Le, my Mom, Megan, and myself to Grand Ole' Opry! We stayed in the Cascades. The holiday decorations were absolutely gorgeous. I could have stayed and enjoyed them for at least two more nights. We saw the Rockettes and went to the ICE exhibit. ICE was unbelievable from an artistic point of view. The entire story of "The Grinch" was told completely in ice sculptures. There was even a 20 foot slide made out of ice. We all went down...even 88 year old Granny. The best part was just laughing and having fun. We took a "million" pictures of Granny (who hates the camera) for our gag gift exchange at Christmas. It was hilarious when she caught on to what were were doing; but you could tell she loved the attention.

B stayed home with Grandpa and Unc Kelen. I'm sure he had enough McD's to last him at least a month. Lord knows he didn't ask to eat there tonight. He is however punishing me for my absence! He's laying on the floor when told it's time to go, he's announcing that he is going to throw-up every four minutes, he's developed a skill of sticking his tongue out at me in irritation or disdain (my backhand is getting better as well). I finally broke down and sang "Santa Clause is Comin' To Town"...do you think that might help. I've taken away toys, banned TV, I just keep grasping at straws to find something...anything...that will convince him to be well behaved. I know he's only 3 but in my profession you see how quickly things can turn!
!
Keep us in your prayers....only one of us may make it through December!

*Side note: He said to me today....."Mom stop singing. I just can't take it any longer!" REALLY?!!! Where did he get that!!!!!!????????

Friday, November 21, 2008

What has gotten into him?

Seriously, I know everyday is different and I know you have to teach things to your child non-stop but B is almost 4, why is he now trying to BITE his TEACHER? Unbelievable, I thought many of our issues were due to his loss of hearing but that's fixed now. His "listening ears" have improved but for goodness sake....BITING?

I walked him into class this morning and Ms. Rosanna says "Oh, mom, I forgot to tell you that the other day I asked B to help clean up and he refused. When I sent him to timeout he ran over and tried to bite me!"

First, why didn't she tell me this the day of. What can I do now? Second, I want to beat his bottom...he knows we don't bite! I can conceptualize that he was angry, but that's not an excuse. GRRRRRR what do I say if anything at this point?

In addition, Ms. Rosanna then turns to another student and says and I'm upset with your daddy too. He threw all your papers in the trash without reading or looking at them. They are important. Well, I agree the papers are important but why would you tell a child that kind of information.

Got to run to a meeting! :)

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Cute Question

So B was a bit concerned last night that I didn't pick him up from school or come home before he was in bed. If you're a reader of all of the blog you know that's because of the PTA meeting that was called last night. So this morning my little guy crawls up into bed at 4:30 and feels on my face to make sure it's "mom". Then he says "Good Morning Mommy! You weren't home last night. What do Principals do?"

At 4:30 that's a REALLY good question. How do you answer that in toddler ease? Me? I said "Well I teach students how to behave at school. I help teachers learn to teach better, and I talk with Mommies and Daddies." He seemed satisfied and then broke into song and a dissertation about how much he loves his teacher.

"Goin' on a Bear Hunt! I"M NOT SCARED!" and "Moon, moon, moon" and the "Circle Time Song". So maybe I won't have an athlete maybe he'll be a singer! Either way I can be confident that asking questions won't be something he struggles with!

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

A Couple of Things

1. Will I be able to finish the 10K Thanksgiving Day Race? Who knows. My legs are itching to get out and walk and I know time should never be an excuse but I just haven't been able to get it all done. Being a mom and this new job are about all I can handle. I hope things will soon feel more normal so I can get back into the "step" of things!

2. A PTA meeting that last until 9:45? Seriously, don't these people know I try and get up between 4:30 and 5! No wonder I can't get the walks in....I've got to sleep! (NO!!! I'm not even taking naps during the day, shit I'm not even getting to eat lunch)

3. When will the phrase "those people" be eliminated! I felt like I was back during the days of segregation tonight. Quotes from parents tonight: "We don't want those Kids here" meaning kids from other neighborhoods that are primarily black AND the students diagnosed Emotionally Disturbed.

4. When will people understand that mental illness isn't something that people request or want to have? Why do some of these teachers think their students with Mental Illness are misbehaving because they are just bad? It's so much deeper than that. So much more!

I'm sure this makes no sense but I had to jot it down so my brain would shut off and I could fall asleep!!
Good Night!!

Monday, November 10, 2008

Another crazy week

B had new ear tubes put in last week. He clearly recovered quicker than me. He woke up ready to go. Me I was spent from quietly stressing about his safety. The procedure really was as easy as they say. He was up and bounding around as soon as we got home. He did however make a huge throw-up mess at 10:30 pm. I was glad I took the next day off! We're good though. We, okay I, rested all weekend and felt like myself this morning! Haven't felt this rested in over a month. The job change has been full of fast paced stress and I'm still adjusting. Trying to give myself some slack to adjust. I've decided that I won't comment on liking or disliking the job until after B's birthday in January. That should be sufficient time to get the real feel of things.
Hope all is well in "reader" land!

Monday, November 3, 2008

Miss Elizabeth


She's here! We welcomed Elizabeth to the USA on Friday night. She is extremely shy but clearly loves her dads! What a precious, long awaited gifted. I hope someday I'll be able to share with her how much she is loved and how much she was wanted. The strides that were taken to make sure she could be with her family seemed arduous at the time but so worth it to see her smile and climb into Ed's lap!
She arrived (at 2 1/2 years of age) still using a bottle and eating only baby food. That sounds like it will be the first hurdle; switching her over to food. She's still in diapers but clearly knows when to let you know when she is wet. She speaks Spanish but understands English. It is clear that she likes to watch people and then mock the skills they demonstrated! I can't wait to see how long it takes her to adapt to our "princess" like US customs!
Ed will be back at work tomorrow. I wonder how hard it will be to leave her? I remember that first day leaving B at the sitter; but he was so tiny. I wonder how Ed will react to having her be at home without him....he's waited so long I can't believe that it wouldn't' be hard to leave her; not even for a second.

Today is also a special day because Miss AJ is 4 years old! We hear you are so big and got rid of your binki! Congrats on this accomplishment! We love you!!!!!!