Thursday was Thanksgiving. We had a really nice Thanksgiving alone at home. It was a first one in a long time that we didn't celebrate with other families. We spent the morning cooking, playing games, and just hanging around the house in our pajamas. We got dinner ready and ate around 2:00pm. After dinner, we cleaned up most of the food and then we headed off to the movies to see "Trolls." The kids had gotten movie tickets from the "Switch Witch" after Halloween when they gave up their candy. It was a real treat for them to see a movie in the theater and they were excited that they got drinks and popcorn too. The kids really enjoyed the movie and Rob and I thought it was cute too.
Afterwards, I went to Kohls, Target, and Meijer to do some Black Friday shopping. I could not BELIEVE the lines! Luckily, however, I got everything that I went out to get! Back at home, Rob and the kids at our pies for dessert. Each of the kids wanted to make a pie so I helped them each make the pie of their choice. I think that this is a tradition that I would like to continue. It was fun to spend some quality time with each of the kids teaching them how to bake. Brooklen made an apple crumb pie, Hurley made a coconut cream pie, and Zaya made a pumpkin pie with a gingersnap crust.
Yesterday, we bought our Christmas tree, put up Christmas decorations and spent 3 hours swimming at the community center. I am so grateful for the time I've had this week to spend with my sweet family. I love them so much and I am so grateful for them.
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Sunday, November 20, 2016
Week 46
Today's post will be brief. I just wanted to express some of the emotions that I've been feeling lately. I feel a little on edge because I'm not sure where life is going to take this little family of mine. We are unsure about where a job will lead us and when a new job might actually come. It has left me with a feeling of uneasiness because it is hard to make any moves toward feeling more settled here in Midland. I also am unsure where our family is really supposed to be. I'd really like to stay in the Midwest, but I'm not sure if that's really where we should be or if that will even be possible.
I feel for my little kids and worry about moving them. Would a move ultimately be better for them? Will it be detrimental to them? Of course, I know that I am a worrier and that I need to just let the Lord take the reins, but it is difficult to move forward when you have no control over a situation.
I feel for my little kids and worry about moving them. Would a move ultimately be better for them? Will it be detrimental to them? Of course, I know that I am a worrier and that I need to just let the Lord take the reins, but it is difficult to move forward when you have no control over a situation.
Sunday, November 13, 2016
Week 45
Well, I'm finally getting around to uploading some recent photos. First, are a few photos from pumpkin carving with my parents. The kids all did great this year. Brooklen carved his completely by himself (my Dad only cut the top open for him) and Kaiton had a great time hammering little glow in the dark pegs into his.
Next up are Halloween photos. These were taken quickly before the kids headed out to Trick or Treat. I stayed back and handed out candy while Rob took the kids around the neighborhood. We can out of candy in about an hour. Soon many kids decided that our neighborhood was a great one to trick or treat in (it is!) and we had so many more kids than usual. Hurley was a butterfly (again), Brooklen was a baseball player, Kaiton was Marshall from Paw Patrol, and Zaya was a pirate (the funny thing was that she wore this costume on her first Halloween when she was 5 months old!!!
Lastly, Hurley had to do a project at school on communities and the good they can do. We researched the Shelterhouse Resale shop since we have worked there several times in the last couple of years and the kids really love serving there. Since I didn't have any photos of my kids serving there, I took the kids on Monday night for FHE. The kids had so much fun sorting toys in the back room and organizing toys and stuffed animals out on the floor. Here are a few photos I took of Hurley while we were there.
Week 45
Well, I'm finally getting around to uploading some recent photos. First, are a few photos from pumpkin carving with my parents. The kids all did great this year. Brooklen carved his completely by himself (my Dad only cut the top open for him) and Kaiton had a great time hammering little glow in the dark pegs into his.
Next up are Halloween photos. These were taken quickly before the kids headed out to Trick or Treat. I stayed back and handed out candy while Rob took the kids around the neighborhood. We can out of candy in about an hour. Soon many kids decided that our neighborhood was a great one to trick or treat in (it is!) and we had so many more kids than usual. Hurley was a butterfly (again), Brooklen was a baseball player, Kaiton was Marshall from Paw Patrol, and Zaya was a pirate (the funny thing was that she wore this costume on her first Halloween when she was 5 months old!!!
Lastly, Hurley had to do a project at school on communities and the good they can do. We researched the Shelterhouse Resale shop since we have worked there several times in the last couple of years and the kids really love serving there. Since I didn't have any photos of my kids serving there, I took the kids on Monday night for FHE. The kids had so much fun sorting toys in the back room and organizing toys and stuffed animals out on the floor. Here are a few photos I took of Hurley while we were there.
Sunday, October 30, 2016
Week 42
On Monday afternoon, Rob left to go to Utah to hunt. It was a crazy and busy week with the kids, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I had to have a little help from amazing friends in order to get my kids to all of their different activities; I consider myself lucky to have a network of support.
Rob actually shot a deer on Tuesday, his first day out. They never ended up seeing much the whole rest of the week, so they ended up with just one deer. I'm glad he had a chance to go hunting and the kids were really excited to see the meat and the antlers that he brought back.
My parents actually came into town on Wednesday night. Earlier in the day it had actually snowed and we were even able to make our first snowman of the season. On Thursday, we took Kaiton to the library and then we went and picked the kids up from school to take them out to lunch. In the afternoon, my parents helped me make dinner, prepare treats for gymnastics, and get games and crafts ready for the school parties. They were such a BIG help! On Thursday evening, Hurley had gymnastics and my parents went to watch her.
On Friday, we hung out a home in the morning and then after lunch, my parents took Kaiton to Bronner while I went to the school for the parade and Halloween parties. After school, my Dad and I took Brooklen to hockey and then we came home and made pizza for lunch. At 7:00pm, we went to open gym. Brooklen, Hurley, and Zaya played in the gym for 2 hours.
On Saturday morning, Brooklen had a hockey game at 8:45am in Saginaw. We left around 7:15 and stopped to pick up breakfast at Panera on the way. The boys won their game and Brooklen scored a goal. He played awesome! After the game, we went to Skyzone, the new trampoline park in Saginaw. The kids loved it. Hurley loved doing roundoff back handsprings, backpacks and back layouts. Before we left, my dad did a claw machine. He won 5 balls for the kids. The kids thought it was SO COOL!!! After the trampoline park, we went to Lehman's Green Apple Barn. It was a gorgeous day and the kids loved playing outside. Later, we came back and mowed the lawn and raked leaves. My parents and the kids were such a big help!
Today, we went to church and then played board games and carved pumpkins. Rob came back tonight and while it has a long, tiring week, we survived and made great memories.
Sunday, October 23, 2016
Weeks 40 and 41
Last week, I didn't record anything. I photographed another wedding last Saturday that was beautiful, but I was so tired the next day. Liz was still here and she helped me up until the reception. It went well, but between two weddings worth of photos to edit and the TONS of family and senior photos that I also have to edit, I feel stressed and busy. I am so grateful for all of the business that I've had this year, but it is really difficult for me to balance family and work when I still have a little one at home during the day and our life running our kids around is so busy.
I got home from the wedding at about 9:30pm. When I got home, the kids were hiding behind the couch. They had made me a late birthday cake. They sang to me and we enjoyed yummy chocolate cake before bedtime. It was so sweet. I am so glad that Rob and the kids thought about me. It was such a perfect ending to a very long, draining day.
This week I've been trying to find time to do normal life things, while editing a crazy amount of photos. I also had 3 more photo sessions this week. Friday night, Brooklen got to go to a haunted house and haunted train ride with the Nymans. The girls and Kaiton and I made pizza for dinner and then we watched the movie, Enchanted in our bed.
On Saturday, Brooklen had hockey in the morning and I took Hurley, Maddy, and Zaya around both of our neighborhoods to collect cans. The girls are collecting cans to raise money for MGTC to donate to the Pardee Cancer Research Center. I love that the girls are motivated.
In the afternoon, I went to do some pictures and Brooklen went over to Ashton Reinke's house. Ashton's grandpa (who is Brooklen's hockey coach) took Ashton and 3 of the boys to the Saginaw Spirit game. It was especially cool because Ethan Menzies, one of Brooklen's best buddies was playing goalie in a halftime event. Ethan's sister came over to our house while they were at the game. We ate Little Caesars and then Rob, Hurley, Zaya, Kaiton, Kaitlyn, and Hannah Parks, and I went to a Haunted Forest Walk at my friend, Deb Forshee's house. It was fun and I think the kids really enjoyed it. Afterwards, we dropped Hannah off at her house and then Kaitlyn, Hurley, Zaya, and Kaiton watched the Movie, Elf, downstairs.
Today was a gorgeous fall day. After church, we played outside in the leaves, I took a few photos for the Menzies, and we did a craft outside. It was a perfect family afternoon!
I got home from the wedding at about 9:30pm. When I got home, the kids were hiding behind the couch. They had made me a late birthday cake. They sang to me and we enjoyed yummy chocolate cake before bedtime. It was so sweet. I am so glad that Rob and the kids thought about me. It was such a perfect ending to a very long, draining day.
This week I've been trying to find time to do normal life things, while editing a crazy amount of photos. I also had 3 more photo sessions this week. Friday night, Brooklen got to go to a haunted house and haunted train ride with the Nymans. The girls and Kaiton and I made pizza for dinner and then we watched the movie, Enchanted in our bed.
On Saturday, Brooklen had hockey in the morning and I took Hurley, Maddy, and Zaya around both of our neighborhoods to collect cans. The girls are collecting cans to raise money for MGTC to donate to the Pardee Cancer Research Center. I love that the girls are motivated.
In the afternoon, I went to do some pictures and Brooklen went over to Ashton Reinke's house. Ashton's grandpa (who is Brooklen's hockey coach) took Ashton and 3 of the boys to the Saginaw Spirit game. It was especially cool because Ethan Menzies, one of Brooklen's best buddies was playing goalie in a halftime event. Ethan's sister came over to our house while they were at the game. We ate Little Caesars and then Rob, Hurley, Zaya, Kaiton, Kaitlyn, and Hannah Parks, and I went to a Haunted Forest Walk at my friend, Deb Forshee's house. It was fun and I think the kids really enjoyed it. Afterwards, we dropped Hannah off at her house and then Kaitlyn, Hurley, Zaya, and Kaiton watched the Movie, Elf, downstairs.
Today was a gorgeous fall day. After church, we played outside in the leaves, I took a few photos for the Menzies, and we did a craft outside. It was a perfect family afternoon!
Sunday, October 9, 2016
Week 39
Yesterday, I photographed a wedding for 8 hours. It was a really long day and the result is that I am so tired today. My good friend Liz Glenn is in town from California and was able to second shoot with me. She is also second shooting next weekend with me. I am so grateful to have her here. It really puts me at ease.
Anyway, the wedding went pretty good. I still feel so unqualified and I really struggle with thinking fast for weddings, but I felt a little more confident this time, especially at the reception. I am always nervous about using off-camera lights, but I made it through yesterday without any big problems.
While I was at the wedding, Rob and Brooklen went to Lansing for the BYU vs. Michigan State game. Rob had a banker client take them to the game. I think they had a great time. The banker bought Brooklen a BYU shirt and made him wear it once BYU was winning! BYU won the game (Brooklen wanted MSU to win), but they had a fun time and they also got a PF Changs lunch out of it.
Meanwhile, the three younger kids stayed at home with babysitters. First, Abby Carn babysat them. She is so fun and brings tons of games and crafts to do with them. Abby had to leave in the evening to go to a stake dance, so Emmy Avery, one of our neighbors, came for the last three hours. I felt guilty for leaving the kids with sitters for so long, but I think they did have a good time. We don't get babysitters very often, so I think the kids actually enjoy it when they do have a sitter.
I wish I had a lot of exciting things to write about the week. I know it was a great week, but I am so tired and I think I just will end my post here.
Anyway, the wedding went pretty good. I still feel so unqualified and I really struggle with thinking fast for weddings, but I felt a little more confident this time, especially at the reception. I am always nervous about using off-camera lights, but I made it through yesterday without any big problems.
While I was at the wedding, Rob and Brooklen went to Lansing for the BYU vs. Michigan State game. Rob had a banker client take them to the game. I think they had a great time. The banker bought Brooklen a BYU shirt and made him wear it once BYU was winning! BYU won the game (Brooklen wanted MSU to win), but they had a fun time and they also got a PF Changs lunch out of it.
Meanwhile, the three younger kids stayed at home with babysitters. First, Abby Carn babysat them. She is so fun and brings tons of games and crafts to do with them. Abby had to leave in the evening to go to a stake dance, so Emmy Avery, one of our neighbors, came for the last three hours. I felt guilty for leaving the kids with sitters for so long, but I think they did have a good time. We don't get babysitters very often, so I think the kids actually enjoy it when they do have a sitter.
I wish I had a lot of exciting things to write about the week. I know it was a great week, but I am so tired and I think I just will end my post here.
Sunday, October 2, 2016
Week 38
On Monday, Kaiton and I spent the day cleaning and running errands. After school, I taught a piano lesson and then I got to take Brooklen to hockey practice while Rob took Zaya, Hurley, and Kaiton to Zaya's dance class. It was really fun for me to get to take Brooklen to hockey alone. I feel like I am always with the girls, which is great, but it is nice to have some alone time to support Brooklen too.
On Tuesday, we picked the kids up from school and then took Zaya to gymnastics. Hurley had a bit of a breakdown before her gymnastics class. I'm not sure if she is tired, sick (she has allergies), or if she is getting a bit burnt out. I ended up leaving mutual early to go watch and support her at gymnastics because I knew she was having a tough time. Luckily, she had a pretty good day. Thursday, she was also a bit hesitant and I was worried about her. I ended up watching her for a couple of hours. I think her coaches saw that she needed a "light" day. They had a crazy hair day and at the end they awarded her the weekly trophy (for the third time since the summer started). She came home so happy! I will be much more aware of preventing burn-out for her going forward. I also got some new allergy meds for her; I definitely think we need to get that under control!
On Friday, Kaiton and I met Natalie Hill at a new crepe restaurant for lunch. I wanted to take Natalie out to lunch for her birthday. It was so fun. We spent over an hour and a half just talking. I don't have many close friends here in Midland, so it is so nice to be reminded that I do have a few people that I really love and can be "real" with. On Friday night, it was raining, so we made pizza and then we watched a really cute movie, "Descendants."
On Saturday, we went to Brooklen's hockey game in the morning and then we went over to the Festifall downtown. The kids had a good time playing fall games and doing some crafts.
On Tuesday, we picked the kids up from school and then took Zaya to gymnastics. Hurley had a bit of a breakdown before her gymnastics class. I'm not sure if she is tired, sick (she has allergies), or if she is getting a bit burnt out. I ended up leaving mutual early to go watch and support her at gymnastics because I knew she was having a tough time. Luckily, she had a pretty good day. Thursday, she was also a bit hesitant and I was worried about her. I ended up watching her for a couple of hours. I think her coaches saw that she needed a "light" day. They had a crazy hair day and at the end they awarded her the weekly trophy (for the third time since the summer started). She came home so happy! I will be much more aware of preventing burn-out for her going forward. I also got some new allergy meds for her; I definitely think we need to get that under control!
On Friday, Kaiton and I met Natalie Hill at a new crepe restaurant for lunch. I wanted to take Natalie out to lunch for her birthday. It was so fun. We spent over an hour and a half just talking. I don't have many close friends here in Midland, so it is so nice to be reminded that I do have a few people that I really love and can be "real" with. On Friday night, it was raining, so we made pizza and then we watched a really cute movie, "Descendants."
On Saturday, we went to Brooklen's hockey game in the morning and then we went over to the Festifall downtown. The kids had a good time playing fall games and doing some crafts.
Sunday, September 25, 2016
Week 37
As I'm going back through this week, I can't really think of very many things that I feel are super important to record. Of course, that makes me feel bad because I don't want a week to go by that I don't cherish memories of my family. . . instead, I think I just can't remember much. In fact, my terrible memory worries me often. Either I'm really losing my memory young or I'm not exercising my brain enough and I'm losing my ability to record things. It doesn't help that I NEVER had a good memory, even when I was young.
Yesterday, we spent the day in Ann Arbor. Hurley had her Kickstarter camp and since we didn't want her to participate on Sunday, we had to go down there and pick her up. We left after Brooklen's hockey practice at about 1:30pm, but we ran several errands throughout the day. It was a very long day. I think Hurley had a lot of fun. It seemed like she was tired when we picked her up and I think it might have been a bit intimidating for her, but it was also really good for her. We ended up getting home at about 11:30pm.
I had two photo sessions this week: a senior session and a family session. I definitely don't handle stress very well. Having two in one week kind of makes me crazy! What worries me more is that I have 2 weddings in a row in a couple of weeks. I'm super nervous about shooting them, and of course equally nervous about fitting in the editing of the photos. I think that after I shoot all of my booked weddings (I have one more next year), I'm going to stop doing them. It's a little too much stress for me to handle. I think the stress of it actually make me physically sick.
On Friday, I watched Scarlett Robel all day while her mom worked. I also watched Benjamin Jones for a while because his mom just had a new baby. It was a pretty long day and I didn't get much done, but it was nice to help someone out and I think it is always good for Kaiton to have other kids around to play with. On Friday night, we took Scarlett with us to the Ward Fall Party at the Crippen's farm. The kids enjoyed eating, playing on the hay, riding horses, and going on hayrides.
Lastly, I took Kaiton over to Bay City on Thursday to check out some areas for a photo session. I can't believe I don't go down there more often! We had so much fun checking out the area and browsing the antique stores. I took Kaiton to the candy shop down there and we also went to Heather's, a vegan restaurant, for the first time. It was soooo awesome. We had an "unchicken" burger (breaded tofu) and some amazing house potatoes. Kaiton kept telling me how good the food was. He ate so much; it was so cute!!!
Yesterday, we spent the day in Ann Arbor. Hurley had her Kickstarter camp and since we didn't want her to participate on Sunday, we had to go down there and pick her up. We left after Brooklen's hockey practice at about 1:30pm, but we ran several errands throughout the day. It was a very long day. I think Hurley had a lot of fun. It seemed like she was tired when we picked her up and I think it might have been a bit intimidating for her, but it was also really good for her. We ended up getting home at about 11:30pm.
I had two photo sessions this week: a senior session and a family session. I definitely don't handle stress very well. Having two in one week kind of makes me crazy! What worries me more is that I have 2 weddings in a row in a couple of weeks. I'm super nervous about shooting them, and of course equally nervous about fitting in the editing of the photos. I think that after I shoot all of my booked weddings (I have one more next year), I'm going to stop doing them. It's a little too much stress for me to handle. I think the stress of it actually make me physically sick.
On Friday, I watched Scarlett Robel all day while her mom worked. I also watched Benjamin Jones for a while because his mom just had a new baby. It was a pretty long day and I didn't get much done, but it was nice to help someone out and I think it is always good for Kaiton to have other kids around to play with. On Friday night, we took Scarlett with us to the Ward Fall Party at the Crippen's farm. The kids enjoyed eating, playing on the hay, riding horses, and going on hayrides.
Lastly, I took Kaiton over to Bay City on Thursday to check out some areas for a photo session. I can't believe I don't go down there more often! We had so much fun checking out the area and browsing the antique stores. I took Kaiton to the candy shop down there and we also went to Heather's, a vegan restaurant, for the first time. It was soooo awesome. We had an "unchicken" burger (breaded tofu) and some amazing house potatoes. Kaiton kept telling me how good the food was. He ate so much; it was so cute!!!
Sunday, September 18, 2016
Week 36
This week was Woodcrest's scheduled parent nights for all of the grades. Rob went to Mr. Staley's and Mr. Rajewski's parent nights because I was busy with other commitments. I went to Mrs. Doughty's parent night because Rob was busy at a hockey parent meeting! I feel so super blessed that my kids have such awesome teachers. Every year I grow more grateful for the people who chose that profession. I watch my kids learn and thrive at school and I know that it is all made possible because of teachers.
Brooklen officially started hockey this week with his team. He is so excited because ALL of his good friends (who play hockey) are on his team this year. Again, I am so grateful for this. His coach made it possible by hand-picking those kids in the draft. This season should be so good for him. His first practice with his team was on Saturday. I had to do a photo session, but I caught the end of the practice and it looked like he was having a lot of fun.
Yesterday, Brooklen got to go to Ethan Menzies' birthday party. They went to Soaring Eagle Waterpark in Mt. Pleasant. They played at the waterpark, had dinner, and spent the night in a cool suite at the hotel where the boys had their own space. The next morning, they got to go to IHOP for breakfast and then played at the waterpark again until it was time to come home. Brooklen was SO excited. He still sleeps very heavy through the night and has accidents some time. After searching for a solution, I found some special underwear that has insert pads. I am so happy to report that they worked perfectly; they were inconspicuous and made him feel comfortable. He had a ton of fun at the birthday party. He has been looking forward to it for quite some time. I am so glad that he has made such good friends here. Ethan is really mellow like Brooklen and he is such a nice, polite kid.
While Brooklen was at the party last night, I went to a movie with Jill and her Mom. I never do anything like that, so it was a real treat! Rob took the kids to City Forest to explore and then he took them to Wendy's. I was so thankful that he was willing to take care of the kids so that I could go relax with friends. He is so sweet.
I had two photo sessions this week. On Monday, I took pictures of a newborn. I survived, but I really do have a hard time with newborns. I have so much to learn in that area! Alta watched Kaiton for me while I took pictures. Then, on Friday I watched her kids so that she could do a newborn session. I also watched Scarlett Robel all afternoon on Friday.
I wanted to record a cute story about Hurley. I sent this email to her coach, Tawnee:
Brooklen officially started hockey this week with his team. He is so excited because ALL of his good friends (who play hockey) are on his team this year. Again, I am so grateful for this. His coach made it possible by hand-picking those kids in the draft. This season should be so good for him. His first practice with his team was on Saturday. I had to do a photo session, but I caught the end of the practice and it looked like he was having a lot of fun.
Yesterday, Brooklen got to go to Ethan Menzies' birthday party. They went to Soaring Eagle Waterpark in Mt. Pleasant. They played at the waterpark, had dinner, and spent the night in a cool suite at the hotel where the boys had their own space. The next morning, they got to go to IHOP for breakfast and then played at the waterpark again until it was time to come home. Brooklen was SO excited. He still sleeps very heavy through the night and has accidents some time. After searching for a solution, I found some special underwear that has insert pads. I am so happy to report that they worked perfectly; they were inconspicuous and made him feel comfortable. He had a ton of fun at the birthday party. He has been looking forward to it for quite some time. I am so glad that he has made such good friends here. Ethan is really mellow like Brooklen and he is such a nice, polite kid.
While Brooklen was at the party last night, I went to a movie with Jill and her Mom. I never do anything like that, so it was a real treat! Rob took the kids to City Forest to explore and then he took them to Wendy's. I was so thankful that he was willing to take care of the kids so that I could go relax with friends. He is so sweet.
I had two photo sessions this week. On Monday, I took pictures of a newborn. I survived, but I really do have a hard time with newborns. I have so much to learn in that area! Alta watched Kaiton for me while I took pictures. Then, on Friday I watched her kids so that she could do a newborn session. I also watched Scarlett Robel all afternoon on Friday.
I wanted to record a cute story about Hurley. I sent this email to her coach, Tawnee:
I overheard Hurley talking to her older brother the other day and I caught her saying, "well, you grow eyes in the back of your head when you turn 13." Brooklen and I both were surprised by that comment and said, "what??" Hurley replied (very serious still) saying that you told her that when you are 13 you grow eyes in the back of your head!
I tried not to laugh and told her that you were kidding. She looked me right in the eye and shot back, "NO! Tawnee says that level 3 is no joke!!"
Haha! Sometimes she is so serious that I forget that she is only 7 years old!
Sunday, September 11, 2016
Week 35
This week the kids started school. It was pretty sad for me to send them back, but (even though they won't admit it), they were ready. Our kids do really well with structure and I think it is good for them to get into a routine.
On Monday, we celebrated Labor Day by going to the last Loons game of the season. The Nymans met us there and we all enjoyed watching the game from the lawn. I actually anticipated that it would be more chaotic and more work taking care of the younger kids than it actually was. It was nice to have lawn tickets because they could get up and walk around. The girls went back and forth between the playing on the play set and doing cartwheels and handstands on the lawn.
When we got home from the game, we grilled burgers and hot dogs and then for family home evening, Rob gave all of the kids sweet father's blessings.
On Tuesday morning, we got up bright and early and got ready for school. The kids took the bus to school and Rob and I met them there and took them to their classes. We didn't really go to Brooklen's class, but we visited both of the girls' classes. Zaya was so excited and didn't even care when I told her it was time for me to leave. I gave her a kiss and she never looked back. Zay's teacher sent home notes about good behavior this week. He said she is eager to learn and a great helper. He also said he was getting better about not calling her Hurley! Haha! She is so used to that!
All of the kids seemed to have great weeks. I forgot how quickly the day goes by when they are at school and how fast things seem to go once they get home. Brooklen started hockey this week and both girls had gymnastics. Tomorrow, I start giving piano lessons again (I always take the first week of school off) and Zaya starts dance. Brooklen also has physical therapy once a week and I have to be at mutual.
Tonight, we had the missionaries over for dinner and then I went to help at standards night for the youth at church. It was a good experience. Working with the youth has made me realize how quickly my kids are going to grow up. I have really started thinking seriously about how we are going to introduce tough topics to them. I am so nervous to raise kids in a world with so many trying issues and temptations. I'm trying to learn everything I can while I serve in this calling.
On Monday, we celebrated Labor Day by going to the last Loons game of the season. The Nymans met us there and we all enjoyed watching the game from the lawn. I actually anticipated that it would be more chaotic and more work taking care of the younger kids than it actually was. It was nice to have lawn tickets because they could get up and walk around. The girls went back and forth between the playing on the play set and doing cartwheels and handstands on the lawn.
When we got home from the game, we grilled burgers and hot dogs and then for family home evening, Rob gave all of the kids sweet father's blessings.
On Tuesday morning, we got up bright and early and got ready for school. The kids took the bus to school and Rob and I met them there and took them to their classes. We didn't really go to Brooklen's class, but we visited both of the girls' classes. Zaya was so excited and didn't even care when I told her it was time for me to leave. I gave her a kiss and she never looked back. Zay's teacher sent home notes about good behavior this week. He said she is eager to learn and a great helper. He also said he was getting better about not calling her Hurley! Haha! She is so used to that!
All of the kids seemed to have great weeks. I forgot how quickly the day goes by when they are at school and how fast things seem to go once they get home. Brooklen started hockey this week and both girls had gymnastics. Tomorrow, I start giving piano lessons again (I always take the first week of school off) and Zaya starts dance. Brooklen also has physical therapy once a week and I have to be at mutual.
Tonight, we had the missionaries over for dinner and then I went to help at standards night for the youth at church. It was a good experience. Working with the youth has made me realize how quickly my kids are going to grow up. I have really started thinking seriously about how we are going to introduce tough topics to them. I am so nervous to raise kids in a world with so many trying issues and temptations. I'm trying to learn everything I can while I serve in this calling.
Sunday, September 4, 2016
Weeks 33 and 34
And just like that, Summer is over. The kids start school in two days and it seems hard to believe that it is that time again. I think the hardest part of sending my kids back to school every Fall is that the reality sets in that they are getting older and there is nothing that I can do about it. I have to admit, there has been enough fighting and "I'm bored" whining in the last few weeks to assure me that it is time for them to go back, but still it is a little bittersweet. What is especially bittersweet for me this year is sending Zaya to school. She is such a joy to have around. She is happy all of the time and she is independent. She is the only one of our kids that really knows how to and enjoys playing alone sometimes. I know that she is excited and ready to start school, but it is really hard to let her go.
We found out the kid's teachers on Monday. I spent pretty much the entire day texting friends to find out what friends my kids had in their classes. Zay and Hurley have Mr. Rajewski and Mr. Staley, who we have had before. I'm really excited about this, but I'm a bit nervous for Hurley because she doesn't have any of her friends in her class. Brooklen is in Mrs. Doughty's class. He is super excited because that is the teacher that he wanted. He doesn't have any of his best friends in his class, but he will be fine seeing them at lunch and recess.
We stopped by the school a couple of times this week to meet teachers, see old teachers, and drop off supplies.
We've also tried to pack a lot into these past two weeks. We went to Sanford Lake Beach one last time. Brooklen brought along Jake and we met Erica Jones and her girls there. Brooklen spent a day at the Nyman's cottage, while I took the girls and Kait to Plymouth Park Pool. Zaya even decided to learn how to swim that day!!! They also had playdates with Ashton Reinke, Lucy and Abigail Bond, and Kaitlyn and Ethan Menzies. Brooklen also got to spend an evening at Ethan's house.
Last week, Brooklen had his birthday party. Rob took him and Ethan Menzies, Jake Nyman, and Carter Greiman to a Loons game. Rob said the boys had a blast and I think it was the perfect party for Brooklen.
Hockey starts this week for Brooklen. Zaya starts dance next week . . . and the girls still have gymnastics. The next few months are sure to be busy but I am looking forward to all of the action!
We found out the kid's teachers on Monday. I spent pretty much the entire day texting friends to find out what friends my kids had in their classes. Zay and Hurley have Mr. Rajewski and Mr. Staley, who we have had before. I'm really excited about this, but I'm a bit nervous for Hurley because she doesn't have any of her friends in her class. Brooklen is in Mrs. Doughty's class. He is super excited because that is the teacher that he wanted. He doesn't have any of his best friends in his class, but he will be fine seeing them at lunch and recess.
We stopped by the school a couple of times this week to meet teachers, see old teachers, and drop off supplies.
We've also tried to pack a lot into these past two weeks. We went to Sanford Lake Beach one last time. Brooklen brought along Jake and we met Erica Jones and her girls there. Brooklen spent a day at the Nyman's cottage, while I took the girls and Kait to Plymouth Park Pool. Zaya even decided to learn how to swim that day!!! They also had playdates with Ashton Reinke, Lucy and Abigail Bond, and Kaitlyn and Ethan Menzies. Brooklen also got to spend an evening at Ethan's house.
Last week, Brooklen had his birthday party. Rob took him and Ethan Menzies, Jake Nyman, and Carter Greiman to a Loons game. Rob said the boys had a blast and I think it was the perfect party for Brooklen.
Hockey starts this week for Brooklen. Zaya starts dance next week . . . and the girls still have gymnastics. The next few months are sure to be busy but I am looking forward to all of the action!
Sunday, August 21, 2016
Week 32
2 weeks ago, Rob and Brooklen had the chance to go to Utah for a hike with Rob's dad. While they were gone, the girls and Kaiton and I spent some quality time together. It was such a fun week. We went to the pool with Abigail and Lucy Bond one day, watched a couple "girl" movies, went out to dinner at Applebees, made pink popcorn, and baked homemade fortune cookies. I really love having little girls! Rob and Brooklen got back on Sunday at like 2:00 in the morning; they were definitely tired the beginning of this week.
On Monday, Zaya had gymnastics and Brooklen had physical therapy. Afterwards, we had to go grocery shopping at Meijer. Because I had cooked really simple while the boys were away, we had almost nothing in the house when Monday came around!
On Tuesday, we ran some errands and got a few things prepared for Hurley's birthday party. We went to the dollar store and purchased some things for goodie bags and I think we mostly hung out around the house.
On Wednesday, the girls had their gymnastics beach party at Sanford Beach. We look forward to this every year; it was a blast. We brought the Parks girls to the beach with us, since their mom was working that day. Hurley had so much fun with Hannah and Abigail and Zaya played with Nev and Lucy. We stayed a couple of hours after most of the gymnasts and the girls (and their friends) were bummed when we had to leave! At night, I went to mutual; we had a "book club" night where each of us brought a book recommendation and talked about it.
On Thursday, Brooklen had Carter Greiman over to play. They had a good time playing video games and playing baseball.
On Friday, Brooklen went over to his friend Ashton's house around noon. They played at Ashton's house for the afternoon and then Ashton's grandmother took them to the fair. Brooklen didn't get home until about 11:00pm; he had so much fun! Ashton's brother competed in the motocross races at the fair in the evening and the boys had a great time getting to watch that. The rest of the family went to Mid-Michigan Gymnastics to celebrate Hurley's birthday. She had a great birthday party and most of her friends were able to make it that evening to celebrate with her. We played in the gym for about an hour, then ate pizza and watermelon and opened presents, and then we went and played in the gym again. At the end of the party, we passed out cupcakes and said goodbye to everyone. It went so smooth and it was the perfect party to celebrate Hurley's 7th birthday.
After the party, we stopped by the Ostergaard's house to attend their son, Kimball's, wedding reception. Kimball actually married one of my young women from the Canton ward, Heidi Lewis. It was so fun to be there to celebrate with her. We also got a chance to chat with Heidi's parents, Neil and Lois Lewis.
On Saturday, we drove to Caseville to go to the beach and to go to the Cheeseburger Festival. We had so much fun last year that we decided to make it a tradition. We were at the beach for about 3 hours, then it started raining. We had to attend the festival in a torrential downpour, but it was kind of fun and it made the event even more exciting! On the way home, we stopped at McDonalds in Bay City and got 50 cent ice cream cones.
On Monday, Zaya had gymnastics and Brooklen had physical therapy. Afterwards, we had to go grocery shopping at Meijer. Because I had cooked really simple while the boys were away, we had almost nothing in the house when Monday came around!
On Tuesday, we ran some errands and got a few things prepared for Hurley's birthday party. We went to the dollar store and purchased some things for goodie bags and I think we mostly hung out around the house.
On Wednesday, the girls had their gymnastics beach party at Sanford Beach. We look forward to this every year; it was a blast. We brought the Parks girls to the beach with us, since their mom was working that day. Hurley had so much fun with Hannah and Abigail and Zaya played with Nev and Lucy. We stayed a couple of hours after most of the gymnasts and the girls (and their friends) were bummed when we had to leave! At night, I went to mutual; we had a "book club" night where each of us brought a book recommendation and talked about it.
On Thursday, Brooklen had Carter Greiman over to play. They had a good time playing video games and playing baseball.
On Friday, Brooklen went over to his friend Ashton's house around noon. They played at Ashton's house for the afternoon and then Ashton's grandmother took them to the fair. Brooklen didn't get home until about 11:00pm; he had so much fun! Ashton's brother competed in the motocross races at the fair in the evening and the boys had a great time getting to watch that. The rest of the family went to Mid-Michigan Gymnastics to celebrate Hurley's birthday. She had a great birthday party and most of her friends were able to make it that evening to celebrate with her. We played in the gym for about an hour, then ate pizza and watermelon and opened presents, and then we went and played in the gym again. At the end of the party, we passed out cupcakes and said goodbye to everyone. It went so smooth and it was the perfect party to celebrate Hurley's 7th birthday.
After the party, we stopped by the Ostergaard's house to attend their son, Kimball's, wedding reception. Kimball actually married one of my young women from the Canton ward, Heidi Lewis. It was so fun to be there to celebrate with her. We also got a chance to chat with Heidi's parents, Neil and Lois Lewis.
On Saturday, we drove to Caseville to go to the beach and to go to the Cheeseburger Festival. We had so much fun last year that we decided to make it a tradition. We were at the beach for about 3 hours, then it started raining. We had to attend the festival in a torrential downpour, but it was kind of fun and it made the event even more exciting! On the way home, we stopped at McDonalds in Bay City and got 50 cent ice cream cones.
Sunday, July 31, 2016
Week 29
Last Sunday, I took some pictures of Zaya just because. I got them on the computer this week. She is so fun and beautiful.
On Monday, we did chores around the house and then went to the ice skating rink for the first time this summer. The three older kids did awesome; I, on the other hand, was grateful to have Kaiton as my crutch. I worked with Kaiton for about 45 minutes. He was definitely pretty scared, but I think as I get him on the ice more frequently, he will get used to it.
Our week was pretty busy with well-child appointments for the two older kids, physical therapy, gymnastics, 2 baseball games, a visit to Plymouth Park, playdates with the triplets and Austin King, and a visit to Brighton, MI for Hurley's first Kickstart testing.
Wednesday was Brooklen's birthday. He wanted orange rolls for breakfast and he was lucky enough to get a Fitbit from us for his birthday. He was so excited and he has been tracking his steps, sleep, and calories burnt all week. At noon, I left to take Zaya to gymnastics and Brooklen went with the Nymans. They took him out to lunch at McDonalds and then they went swimming at an indoor hotel pool. He had a blast. I felt bad that he spent his birthday with them and not me, but he wasn't thrilled about going to watch gymnastics. At night, we had hamburgers, pineapple, fries, and corn for dinner. He wanted a peach cake, so we made a peach cake with dulce de leche frosting. The cake was pretty dry, but the frosting was AMAZING. When Hurley got home from gymnastics at 8:15, we had cake outside with the Nymans.
On Friday, we went down to Brighton for Hurley's first Kickstart testing. She did pretty amazing for a girl who has never really performed in front of others. She pushed herself hard and I think she got pretty good results. On the rope climb (they climb with legs in a pike and only use their arms) she had only gotten about a foot off the ground at practice. At the actual testing, she got about 5 feet off the ground (they have to go 6 feet at her age). It was a really good experience for her and judging by how much she loved it, I think she will really love competing this year.
Below is my letter to Brooklen since he turned 9 this week:
Dear Brooklen,
I can not believe that 9 years ago you made us parents. I can still remember wondering how it would feel to be a parent to a little baby. And then that moment that you were born, everything changed. I suddenly felt an enormous amount of responsibility, a humbling desire to learn, and my heart opened up and I loved you more than I could ever describe.
Those first couple of years with just us were so much fun. I look back now and although I thought life was busy and at times tough, it seems so carefree looking back now. I keep thinking about those years and the things we did together, trying to imagine what life will be like this year when I have just Kaiton at home.
Brooklen, I couldn't be more proud of who you are today. You are such a responsible boy. You want to do good and I can always count on you. When I send you off to school or church, I know without a doubt that you will be respectful, obedient, and try your hardest. Today, you gave a talk in primary and although you didn't initially want to, you wrote it yourself and gave it without even using a cheatsheet.
Your favorite things are definitely sports. Your favorite sports are baseball and hockey, but you like to watch almost every sport. You wake up early and read CNN and your dad actual fact checks with you now. You are always on the go. You and your best friend, Jake, are constantly moving from one sport to another. You just got a Fitbit for your birthday and when you are playing outside, you burn a ton of calories!!
Your favorite part of school is gym and recess. You are very smart, and you are especially good at math. You don't love to read, but if you are reading a book that involves sports, you enjoy it! You read every night when you go to bed for at least 20 minutes.
Things have definitely changes this past year. You are suddenly "old," and you don't really like going to parks or doing things that you deem, "babyish." This has made this summer quite interesting, but I understand that you are older now and that you want to be treated like a big kid.
Your best friends are Jacob Nyman, Ethan Menzies, and Carter Greiman. You have become pretty social and you love to play kickball with your friends at school. At home, you like to play mini sticks, baseball, hockey, and the Wii with your friends. On the baseball field, you are a vocal leader of your team and you enjoy calling out plays and outs to your teammates. You are introverted, but you have learned how to make friends and communicate well with others.
You are helpful at home. You are especially good at helping with Kaiton and Zaya. You read to them, help Kaiton get dressed, and you help them complete their chores. They are lucky to have you as a big brother.
Brooklen, I can't believe 9 years have passed. You have made life so wonderful. We love you and can't wait to watch you grow into an amazing young man.
Love,
Mom
On Monday, we did chores around the house and then went to the ice skating rink for the first time this summer. The three older kids did awesome; I, on the other hand, was grateful to have Kaiton as my crutch. I worked with Kaiton for about 45 minutes. He was definitely pretty scared, but I think as I get him on the ice more frequently, he will get used to it.
Our week was pretty busy with well-child appointments for the two older kids, physical therapy, gymnastics, 2 baseball games, a visit to Plymouth Park, playdates with the triplets and Austin King, and a visit to Brighton, MI for Hurley's first Kickstart testing.
Wednesday was Brooklen's birthday. He wanted orange rolls for breakfast and he was lucky enough to get a Fitbit from us for his birthday. He was so excited and he has been tracking his steps, sleep, and calories burnt all week. At noon, I left to take Zaya to gymnastics and Brooklen went with the Nymans. They took him out to lunch at McDonalds and then they went swimming at an indoor hotel pool. He had a blast. I felt bad that he spent his birthday with them and not me, but he wasn't thrilled about going to watch gymnastics. At night, we had hamburgers, pineapple, fries, and corn for dinner. He wanted a peach cake, so we made a peach cake with dulce de leche frosting. The cake was pretty dry, but the frosting was AMAZING. When Hurley got home from gymnastics at 8:15, we had cake outside with the Nymans.
On Friday, we went down to Brighton for Hurley's first Kickstart testing. She did pretty amazing for a girl who has never really performed in front of others. She pushed herself hard and I think she got pretty good results. On the rope climb (they climb with legs in a pike and only use their arms) she had only gotten about a foot off the ground at practice. At the actual testing, she got about 5 feet off the ground (they have to go 6 feet at her age). It was a really good experience for her and judging by how much she loved it, I think she will really love competing this year.
Below is my letter to Brooklen since he turned 9 this week:
Dear Brooklen,
I can not believe that 9 years ago you made us parents. I can still remember wondering how it would feel to be a parent to a little baby. And then that moment that you were born, everything changed. I suddenly felt an enormous amount of responsibility, a humbling desire to learn, and my heart opened up and I loved you more than I could ever describe.
Those first couple of years with just us were so much fun. I look back now and although I thought life was busy and at times tough, it seems so carefree looking back now. I keep thinking about those years and the things we did together, trying to imagine what life will be like this year when I have just Kaiton at home.
Brooklen, I couldn't be more proud of who you are today. You are such a responsible boy. You want to do good and I can always count on you. When I send you off to school or church, I know without a doubt that you will be respectful, obedient, and try your hardest. Today, you gave a talk in primary and although you didn't initially want to, you wrote it yourself and gave it without even using a cheatsheet.
Your favorite things are definitely sports. Your favorite sports are baseball and hockey, but you like to watch almost every sport. You wake up early and read CNN and your dad actual fact checks with you now. You are always on the go. You and your best friend, Jake, are constantly moving from one sport to another. You just got a Fitbit for your birthday and when you are playing outside, you burn a ton of calories!!
Your favorite part of school is gym and recess. You are very smart, and you are especially good at math. You don't love to read, but if you are reading a book that involves sports, you enjoy it! You read every night when you go to bed for at least 20 minutes.
Things have definitely changes this past year. You are suddenly "old," and you don't really like going to parks or doing things that you deem, "babyish." This has made this summer quite interesting, but I understand that you are older now and that you want to be treated like a big kid.
Your best friends are Jacob Nyman, Ethan Menzies, and Carter Greiman. You have become pretty social and you love to play kickball with your friends at school. At home, you like to play mini sticks, baseball, hockey, and the Wii with your friends. On the baseball field, you are a vocal leader of your team and you enjoy calling out plays and outs to your teammates. You are introverted, but you have learned how to make friends and communicate well with others.
You are helpful at home. You are especially good at helping with Kaiton and Zaya. You read to them, help Kaiton get dressed, and you help them complete their chores. They are lucky to have you as a big brother.
Brooklen, I can't believe 9 years have passed. You have made life so wonderful. We love you and can't wait to watch you grow into an amazing young man.
Love,
Mom
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