Friday, January 21, 2011
They're American?!
Allyson and I were at Wal Mart the other day picking up what I originally thought a few things. (I am sure some of you must know how that goes!) As I put more and more into the cart the more uneasy I became. Zach needed some materials for a zebra project, Ryan needed folders for school, I needed to make cupcakes for Lindsey’s party, not to mention all the odds and ends that you really don’t need but… so when Allyson asked to buy some florescent drinking straws I said, “Not today honey.” A few moments later as I was trying to find a number seven candle, Allyson once again gazed up at me with a package of straws in her hand. (This time they were red white and blue) and asked, “Can we buy these? Pleeeeeaase? They’re Americaaan?!” How could I say no to that?
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Happy Birthday Lindsey!
Where has the time gone? My smile is brighter just thinking of you and your dazzling persona. I can’t imagine my day without your hugs and conversations. It simply wouldn’t be complete with out a glimpse of the adoring look in your eye as we snuggle for reading time, or watching you tend to Allyson during play, listening to your stories (I am amazed at how in tune you are with others.).
Overhearing you and Ryan discuss schoolwork, witnessing you and Emily practice dance moves, and even playing board games with Zach (minus the bickering!)are all wonderful gifts that you share with us. Thank you for being you!
Happy Seventh Birthday Lulu!
~I love you~
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Sisters
I was going through the computer and found this picture that Emmy took on Christmas using her new camera. Nice job Em!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Jack and the Beanstuff
Saturday is dance day for Allyson and Lindsey! As we drove to class I noticed a large puffy cloud in the sky. I pointed it out and proceeded to throw out a storybook idea. The three of us created the main character and came up with a problem for him to solve. It was actually a pretty good story! In fact I proclaimed it out loud just as we pulled into the parking lot,"We created a wonderful story girls!" Allyson agreed, "Just like Jack and the Beanstuff!"
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Gotta Lover Her!
Before bed this evening, (that sounds fancy doesn't it?). How about...
At nightfall, prior to retiring for the evening, Allyson and I were engaged in discussion.
Nah, let me tell it in my voice...
After story time and teeth brushing, Allyson and I were reviewing what we read about (bugs) and discussing our plans for tomorrow. As we wrapped it up (or concluded our conversation) I asked our sweet little three year old, "Today is Thursday Allyson, so what is tomorrow?" With a blink of an eye she replied, "Tomorrow."
At nightfall, prior to retiring for the evening, Allyson and I were engaged in discussion.
Nah, let me tell it in my voice...
After story time and teeth brushing, Allyson and I were reviewing what we read about (bugs) and discussing our plans for tomorrow. As we wrapped it up (or concluded our conversation) I asked our sweet little three year old, "Today is Thursday Allyson, so what is tomorrow?" With a blink of an eye she replied, "Tomorrow."
Sunday, January 2, 2011
2011!!!
Happy New year friends! I figured that if I put my resolutions in writing I could solicit your help and hopefully follow through with at least a few of these...
1. Be a better listener…lately my mind races or desperately attempts to hold on to a thought as the other person is talking to me when instead I should simply LISTEN. So what if I forget what I was going to say, that is something to work on next year, right?
2. Relax…the laundry can wait, but the kids are growing up so fast. I have fallen into a pattern of rushing to get everything (not just laundry) done so that I can relax with the kids later. Guess what? Later hasn’t been coming very often! There will always be something that needs attention. I prefer to pay attention to someone instead.
3. Delegate. That way I can be a better listener and relax more. (I am wicked smaaat huh!)
4. Stay on the workout schedule. It is so great for my mental health. At times I feel guilty taking the time, but I am a much nicer person after I work out.
5. Keep the spark lit! This one I will keep semi private, but it is so important to feel connected with Neil. During the hustle and bustle of the holidays (not to mention weeks of sick children!)we haven’t been as “close” as often as we usually are. The holidays are over baby! (How you doin’ Neil?)
There is another goal of mine. I need to write more. This was the whole reason that I began this blog in the first place. It brings me joy! So if you don’t see me blogging in a while, feel free to hound me.
God Bless and best wishes to you all!
1. Be a better listener…lately my mind races or desperately attempts to hold on to a thought as the other person is talking to me when instead I should simply LISTEN. So what if I forget what I was going to say, that is something to work on next year, right?
2. Relax…the laundry can wait, but the kids are growing up so fast. I have fallen into a pattern of rushing to get everything (not just laundry) done so that I can relax with the kids later. Guess what? Later hasn’t been coming very often! There will always be something that needs attention. I prefer to pay attention to someone instead.
3. Delegate. That way I can be a better listener and relax more. (I am wicked smaaat huh!)
4. Stay on the workout schedule. It is so great for my mental health. At times I feel guilty taking the time, but I am a much nicer person after I work out.
5. Keep the spark lit! This one I will keep semi private, but it is so important to feel connected with Neil. During the hustle and bustle of the holidays (not to mention weeks of sick children!)we haven’t been as “close” as often as we usually are. The holidays are over baby! (How you doin’ Neil?)
There is another goal of mine. I need to write more. This was the whole reason that I began this blog in the first place. It brings me joy! So if you don’t see me blogging in a while, feel free to hound me.
God Bless and best wishes to you all!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
I Made A Mistake
This scenario has weighed heavily in my heart for a few days and I guess I need to get it off of my chest.
Neil had last Thursday afternoon off and we were out with Allyson running errands. It began to rain, so I ran into the grocery store to pick up some odds and ends quickly while Neil and Ally waited in the car. I had five items in my hands and swiftly made a break for the express lane. As I dawdled in the check out lane, I shamelessly glanced at the tabloids wondering who the heck half these people were (shame on you John Travolta by the way). It seemed bordering on forever for the “express line” as a woman and her young daughter joined the line. I quickly noticed that her cart had more than the 12 items the sign directed, but shrugged it off. Soon after, an older man arrived. Given that I was bored, I glanced back as the man remarked, ”This is the express line?” Assuming he was referring to the length of time it was taking, I nodded and smirked. However, he then directed his comments specifically at the woman behind me who happened to have on a khimar ( head scarf), so it was apparent that she was Muslim. “You have more than 12 items there, you do know this is the express line don’t you?” She respectfully replied, “Yes a few more, would you like to go in front of me?” Instantly, the man’s demeanor transformed. As the air surrounding us became overwhelmingly heavy he abrasively proclaimed, “You people make me sick. Just do what you need to do.” All was still as my entire body went numb attempting to process what this seemingly placid older man just uttered. Did I hear what I just heard? Is she still in line after that? What should I say?
Shamefully, I said nothing. Was it because I didn’t want him to say more in front of the young girl? I can’t be sure. Was it because I avoid conflict whenever possible? Perhaps. Was it because I was simply shocked? Most likely. What ever the reason, I am ashamed and I am sorry. This man went over to the manager to complain and the woman stood up for herself as the manager opened another register for the man as he loudly carried on about the injustice of it all.
I can't imagine what it's like to have someone inflict such hatred at me, and I am truly ashamed that I did nothing as it happened in my presence.
Neil had last Thursday afternoon off and we were out with Allyson running errands. It began to rain, so I ran into the grocery store to pick up some odds and ends quickly while Neil and Ally waited in the car. I had five items in my hands and swiftly made a break for the express lane. As I dawdled in the check out lane, I shamelessly glanced at the tabloids wondering who the heck half these people were (shame on you John Travolta by the way). It seemed bordering on forever for the “express line” as a woman and her young daughter joined the line. I quickly noticed that her cart had more than the 12 items the sign directed, but shrugged it off. Soon after, an older man arrived. Given that I was bored, I glanced back as the man remarked, ”This is the express line?” Assuming he was referring to the length of time it was taking, I nodded and smirked. However, he then directed his comments specifically at the woman behind me who happened to have on a khimar ( head scarf), so it was apparent that she was Muslim. “You have more than 12 items there, you do know this is the express line don’t you?” She respectfully replied, “Yes a few more, would you like to go in front of me?” Instantly, the man’s demeanor transformed. As the air surrounding us became overwhelmingly heavy he abrasively proclaimed, “You people make me sick. Just do what you need to do.” All was still as my entire body went numb attempting to process what this seemingly placid older man just uttered. Did I hear what I just heard? Is she still in line after that? What should I say?
Shamefully, I said nothing. Was it because I didn’t want him to say more in front of the young girl? I can’t be sure. Was it because I avoid conflict whenever possible? Perhaps. Was it because I was simply shocked? Most likely. What ever the reason, I am ashamed and I am sorry. This man went over to the manager to complain and the woman stood up for herself as the manager opened another register for the man as he loudly carried on about the injustice of it all.
I can't imagine what it's like to have someone inflict such hatred at me, and I am truly ashamed that I did nothing as it happened in my presence.
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