Yesterday I was doing some chores in the house while my kids played in the backyard. My daughter came running up to the door, full of excitement. "Mommy, mommy! I have something for you! Look, I got you a weed!"
It struck me as very funny that she referred to her beautiful gift as a weed. But in no way did that diminish her enthusiasm and sincerity in offering that gift to me. A lovely and heartfelt gift, it was accepted with great pleasure and gratitude. The tiny weed is now situated in a very small glass jar on my kitchen counter.
I look at it and smile. I see a weed, yes, but I also see beauty, joy, and love.
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Perspective
A little perspective is a very helpful thing!
My sweet and darling 4 year old son has been "a bit" challenging as of late. He has been throwing huge screaming fits, breaking everything in his path, pulling his curtains off the wall by hanging from them, biting us (Ouch!), throwing rocks and metal objects at his friends. The list could go on for quite a while, but I think you get the idea. Some days he is kind and caring, thoughtful and obedient. And some days you'd think I had succeeded in raising a horrible monster.
My daughter did many of these same things when she was 3 and 4 years old. Although, I never found her hanging from the curtains. I do remember lots of biting. I remember thinking how my daughter was way too old to be biting. Kids should know better by that age! I remember thinking I had seriously failed as a parent. I remember reading piles of books on parenting and discipline. I remember my mother-in-law telling me, "Don't worry, they all go through this phase, but it should end around age 3 and 3/4." Really? There is an end in sight? You mean I haven't failed as a parent? Maybe there is hope for my wayward child? Truth be told, she was no better at age 3 and 3/4; but by the time she reached 5, she seemed like a pretty decent kid.
A little perspective is a very helpful thing!
This time around I am not viewing myself as a failure. I am not reading all the parenting books. I don't think my son will remain a dreadful monster and grow up to be a threat to society. I'm thinking, "This too shall pass." I am trying to stay at a safe distance from his teeth! I'm trying to be super consistent, patient, and calm when my son is not. I don't always succeed in these things, but I keep trying and I keep asking God for His help.
I'll never forget the nearly sleepless nights of infancy and toddler-hood, my baby who would never take a bottle or my other baby who absolutely refused to breast feed, my baby who never napped, my baby who wouldn't eat, the toddler who refused to be potty trained, and all the other challenges that seemed like mountains at the time. I'm learning to remind myself, "This too shall pass." Kids go through various stages. Some of them are very strange stages, some of them are frightening, some of them are embarrassing. Some of them seem to last way too long. But eventually they end. I've found most of them end more quickly the less I interfere.
If you are going through a tough phase with your kids, take a step back and remind yourself, "This too shall pass!" And then, to help yourself feel even better, you can think to yourself, "At least my kid isn't biting people and hanging from the curtains like Shauna's son!" Or maybe your kid is doing that too? In that case, just stick with, "This too shall pass!"
My sweet and darling 4 year old son has been "a bit" challenging as of late. He has been throwing huge screaming fits, breaking everything in his path, pulling his curtains off the wall by hanging from them, biting us (Ouch!), throwing rocks and metal objects at his friends. The list could go on for quite a while, but I think you get the idea. Some days he is kind and caring, thoughtful and obedient. And some days you'd think I had succeeded in raising a horrible monster.
My daughter did many of these same things when she was 3 and 4 years old. Although, I never found her hanging from the curtains. I do remember lots of biting. I remember thinking how my daughter was way too old to be biting. Kids should know better by that age! I remember thinking I had seriously failed as a parent. I remember reading piles of books on parenting and discipline. I remember my mother-in-law telling me, "Don't worry, they all go through this phase, but it should end around age 3 and 3/4." Really? There is an end in sight? You mean I haven't failed as a parent? Maybe there is hope for my wayward child? Truth be told, she was no better at age 3 and 3/4; but by the time she reached 5, she seemed like a pretty decent kid.
A little perspective is a very helpful thing!
This time around I am not viewing myself as a failure. I am not reading all the parenting books. I don't think my son will remain a dreadful monster and grow up to be a threat to society. I'm thinking, "This too shall pass." I am trying to stay at a safe distance from his teeth! I'm trying to be super consistent, patient, and calm when my son is not. I don't always succeed in these things, but I keep trying and I keep asking God for His help.
I'll never forget the nearly sleepless nights of infancy and toddler-hood, my baby who would never take a bottle or my other baby who absolutely refused to breast feed, my baby who never napped, my baby who wouldn't eat, the toddler who refused to be potty trained, and all the other challenges that seemed like mountains at the time. I'm learning to remind myself, "This too shall pass." Kids go through various stages. Some of them are very strange stages, some of them are frightening, some of them are embarrassing. Some of them seem to last way too long. But eventually they end. I've found most of them end more quickly the less I interfere.
If you are going through a tough phase with your kids, take a step back and remind yourself, "This too shall pass!" And then, to help yourself feel even better, you can think to yourself, "At least my kid isn't biting people and hanging from the curtains like Shauna's son!" Or maybe your kid is doing that too? In that case, just stick with, "This too shall pass!"
Friday, December 9, 2011
Friday, December 2, 2011
Highs and lows
Today's high: Celebrating my husband's birthday with him. I realized that this is the 9th birthday I've been blessed to spend with him. Joel's a great guy! Plus, it gave the kids and I a wonderful excuse to bake brownies. Dinner involved homemade lasagna, Caesar salad, garlic bread, and fruit. Yum! I look forward to eating the leftovers.
Today's low: My son was throwing Legos, and the Lego bin, at my daughter's head. I picked him up and took him to his room. He bit my arm hard and then repeatedly yelled at the top of his lungs, "You are not my mommy anymore!" and "No one is ever nice to me!" He got to spend an hour of quiet time in his room and came out with a much better attitude. While eating the lasagna at dinner, he leaned over, hugged my arm and said "Now you are my mommy again!"
Today's low: My son was throwing Legos, and the Lego bin, at my daughter's head. I picked him up and took him to his room. He bit my arm hard and then repeatedly yelled at the top of his lungs, "You are not my mommy anymore!" and "No one is ever nice to me!" He got to spend an hour of quiet time in his room and came out with a much better attitude. While eating the lasagna at dinner, he leaned over, hugged my arm and said "Now you are my mommy again!"
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Things they need to know
The kids and I planted the second half of the garden today. We planted broccoli, kale, cabbage, brussel sprouts, peas, onions, and bok choy. My daughter and I both came in from outside with terrible headaches due to allergies. It was time to get clean and wash away the pollen. After getting the kids clean and dressed, I settled them in with a snack and a video so I could shower. As always, I said to them, "Never open the door when I am not with you. No matter who is there, keep the door closed and locked." "Okay, Mommy." I thought it might be good to check their understanding. "What if it is President Obama at the door? Should you open the door for him?" "Umm.... I think we should." "No, don't open the door for anyone! Not even the president. If you think it is someone I would want to let in, just come and get me." I think we need to review this a few more times!
This conversation made me think. What other things do I need to make sure my kids know and understand? Do they know what to do in an emergency? Do they remember how to call 911? Do they remember what I told them to do if they ever get lost or separated from me? Do they know to tell me right away if anyone ever tries to hurt them? What other things do they need to know?
Do they know how much I love them? That nothing can change that love. Have I taken the time today to remind them how much they are loved? Do they know how much Jesus loves them? Have I taken the time to pray with them and read the Bible to them today? I can't teach them everything, but I better not forget the most important things.
This conversation made me think. What other things do I need to make sure my kids know and understand? Do they know what to do in an emergency? Do they remember how to call 911? Do they remember what I told them to do if they ever get lost or separated from me? Do they know to tell me right away if anyone ever tries to hurt them? What other things do they need to know?
Do they know how much I love them? That nothing can change that love. Have I taken the time today to remind them how much they are loved? Do they know how much Jesus loves them? Have I taken the time to pray with them and read the Bible to them today? I can't teach them everything, but I better not forget the most important things.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
A house is not a home...
I love cats and books. I always have. If I wasn't married with kids, I imagine I'd be an old spinster with oodles of cats and piles of books. I suppose I would work in a library. You can picture it right?
But since I have been blessed with an amazing husband and darling children, I spend hours every day reading to my kids. Funny thing, they love books too! We snuggle on the couch and read great books. I'm learning an awful lot about history and science. From time to time I get kicked in the head by my four year old son who doesn't exactly "sit" and listen. And I am reminded to laugh. When my voice gets tired I hand the book to my six year old daughter and she does the reading. We cuddle up, we learn, we laugh, we love. Life is good.
When I was about fourteen, I desperately wanted a cat. I had unsuccessfully asked my parents if I could have a cat. Then I figured it out, my house didn't feel like a home without a cat. And I said so, "Mom, a house really isn't a home without a cat." Who knew that simple heartfelt statement would work? It wasn't long before I got to bring Milo home. Milo, my friend with long, orange fur.
I've been thinking about this lately. When my kids go to bed, I snuggle up on the couch with more great books, a cup of tea, and my two black cats. I feel very much at home. But it isn't the cats, or the books, that make me feel at home. It is the love that fills our house. It is knowing that my husband is in the room with me, that my kids are tucked safely in their beds, and that we tucked them in with words of love.
As a teenager I felt like I was in a house that wasn't quite a home, not because the people weren't loving, but because my parents were often gone. It is easy to realize how much young kids need their parents to be home, how much they need their parents' time and attention. Little kids tell you, they make their needs known. No matter what they say, or don't say, I believe that bigger kids need their parents to be available just as much as the little ones do. As my little kids get bigger, I plan to still be here. I plan to keep on reading to them. Even if I drive them crazy and they wish I'd go away. I hope that my presence and love will continue to make our house a home. And if I'm mistaken on this point? Don't worry, we've got the cats.
But since I have been blessed with an amazing husband and darling children, I spend hours every day reading to my kids. Funny thing, they love books too! We snuggle on the couch and read great books. I'm learning an awful lot about history and science. From time to time I get kicked in the head by my four year old son who doesn't exactly "sit" and listen. And I am reminded to laugh. When my voice gets tired I hand the book to my six year old daughter and she does the reading. We cuddle up, we learn, we laugh, we love. Life is good.
When I was about fourteen, I desperately wanted a cat. I had unsuccessfully asked my parents if I could have a cat. Then I figured it out, my house didn't feel like a home without a cat. And I said so, "Mom, a house really isn't a home without a cat." Who knew that simple heartfelt statement would work? It wasn't long before I got to bring Milo home. Milo, my friend with long, orange fur.
I've been thinking about this lately. When my kids go to bed, I snuggle up on the couch with more great books, a cup of tea, and my two black cats. I feel very much at home. But it isn't the cats, or the books, that make me feel at home. It is the love that fills our house. It is knowing that my husband is in the room with me, that my kids are tucked safely in their beds, and that we tucked them in with words of love.
As a teenager I felt like I was in a house that wasn't quite a home, not because the people weren't loving, but because my parents were often gone. It is easy to realize how much young kids need their parents to be home, how much they need their parents' time and attention. Little kids tell you, they make their needs known. No matter what they say, or don't say, I believe that bigger kids need their parents to be available just as much as the little ones do. As my little kids get bigger, I plan to still be here. I plan to keep on reading to them. Even if I drive them crazy and they wish I'd go away. I hope that my presence and love will continue to make our house a home. And if I'm mistaken on this point? Don't worry, we've got the cats.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
He welcomed them
"When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus what they had done. Then he took them with him and they withdrew by themselves to a town called Bethsaida, but the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing." Luke 9: 10-11
I can imagine Jesus and his disciples being tired, exhausted, in need of a break. Jesus is God, but during his ministry on earth he was also human. He often sought time and solitude for talking to his Father. He often had crowds of thousands following him, seeking understanding, seeking healing, seeking love. And I can imagine him exhausted, but full of spiritual energy, welcoming and teaching and healing.
I don't have crowds of thousands following me. Most days I just have a crowd of two (or eight) following me. Two busy, talkative kids. (Plus two cats and four chickens.) But I'm human, and some days that is quite enough to exhaust me and leave me in need of a break.
This past week I sat down on the kitchen floor to read the newspaper. Kind of strange, I know, but it was quiet in there and the counter kept me hidden. And sometimes that is what this super introverted mom needs. After a few minutes, I heard my daughter say calmly to my son, "We have a big problem. I can't find Mommy."
Jesus "welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing." When I withdraw to a quiet place, do I welcome my children when they follow me? Do I use those opportunities to speak to them about the kingdom of God? Do I take the opportunity to speak words of encouragement and healing to their sensitive hearts? Well, sometimes I do, but sometimes I don't.
This week I'm going to focus on welcoming my little followers. And I'm going to focus on being Jesus' follower. He always welcomes me, he speaks to me, and he heals me. Want to join me in this pursuit?
I can imagine Jesus and his disciples being tired, exhausted, in need of a break. Jesus is God, but during his ministry on earth he was also human. He often sought time and solitude for talking to his Father. He often had crowds of thousands following him, seeking understanding, seeking healing, seeking love. And I can imagine him exhausted, but full of spiritual energy, welcoming and teaching and healing.
I don't have crowds of thousands following me. Most days I just have a crowd of two (or eight) following me. Two busy, talkative kids. (Plus two cats and four chickens.) But I'm human, and some days that is quite enough to exhaust me and leave me in need of a break.
This past week I sat down on the kitchen floor to read the newspaper. Kind of strange, I know, but it was quiet in there and the counter kept me hidden. And sometimes that is what this super introverted mom needs. After a few minutes, I heard my daughter say calmly to my son, "We have a big problem. I can't find Mommy."
Jesus "welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing." When I withdraw to a quiet place, do I welcome my children when they follow me? Do I use those opportunities to speak to them about the kingdom of God? Do I take the opportunity to speak words of encouragement and healing to their sensitive hearts? Well, sometimes I do, but sometimes I don't.
This week I'm going to focus on welcoming my little followers. And I'm going to focus on being Jesus' follower. He always welcomes me, he speaks to me, and he heals me. Want to join me in this pursuit?
Monday, October 3, 2011
Encouraging my young artists
My kids are very interested in art. They love to study art and artists. They spend hours creating masterpieces. They plan to be artists when they grow up. My daughter says, "I'm going to be an artist, a house builder, and a mommy. I'll be very busy!" And my son says, "I'm going to be an artist and a super hero!"
Did your parents ever discourage you from doing what you truly wanted to do? Stories of parents directing their kids away from certain careers, especially those in the arts, are certainly common. I vividly remember stating some of my aspirations as a child and instantly being told why such and such was not a good career choice, or not a good idea for me to attempt. I'm trying not to do that with my kids. I'd rather help them explore various careers and gain further information and skills. Whether they become professional artists, enjoy art as a hobby, or leave it behind as they get older, I plan to cheer them on.
At the moment, we are enjoying learning about various famous artists. We learn about their history, the country they came from, their style of art, etc. I think it is pretty neat that my kids are able to recognize the works of a number of artists. And I love how our studies lead to fun art projects.
Did your parents ever discourage you from doing what you truly wanted to do? Stories of parents directing their kids away from certain careers, especially those in the arts, are certainly common. I vividly remember stating some of my aspirations as a child and instantly being told why such and such was not a good career choice, or not a good idea for me to attempt. I'm trying not to do that with my kids. I'd rather help them explore various careers and gain further information and skills. Whether they become professional artists, enjoy art as a hobby, or leave it behind as they get older, I plan to cheer them on.
At the moment, we are enjoying learning about various famous artists. We learn about their history, the country they came from, their style of art, etc. I think it is pretty neat that my kids are able to recognize the works of a number of artists. And I love how our studies lead to fun art projects.
These paintings were inspired as we read the book "Math-terpieces" by Greg Tang. (A great book, by the way.) My daughter's favorite painting in the book was by Georges Seurat. We learned about Pointillism and how Seurat's ideas as an artist were based on science. We tried it out. Such fun! And the concepts we learned are now firmly imprinted in our minds.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Scratch and sniff paint
It is tough to keep up with my kids' requests for art and craft projects. But I try! We borrowed a book, "The Ultimate Book of Kid Concoctions" by John E. and Danita Thomas, from our local library. This is a great book with lots of easy to make paints, playdoh, etc. You know, the type of stuff that kids adore ... and parents fear.
My kids had a wonderful time making, and painting with, scratch and sniff paints. We got several packages of Kool-aid powdered drink mix. In the separate compartments of a muffin pan, we mixed the contents of each packet with about half a tablespoon of water. We had one packet each of red, blue, and yellow Kool-aid, which we mixed to make all the colors of the rainbow. I just had to include a little science in our painting fun!
My kids had a wonderful time making, and painting with, scratch and sniff paints. We got several packages of Kool-aid powdered drink mix. In the separate compartments of a muffin pan, we mixed the contents of each packet with about half a tablespoon of water. We had one packet each of red, blue, and yellow Kool-aid, which we mixed to make all the colors of the rainbow. I just had to include a little science in our painting fun!
P.S. I am counting on you to ignore the mess on my floors and the fact that my kids are still in their pajamas = )
Friday, September 16, 2011
Exploring in the garden
Most of our spring/summer garden is done for the season. That means it is time for me to dig and weed the garden in preparation for fall planting.
The kids and I have been working out there. The kids say they are going to turn the whole garden into a swimming pool. I must admit I have other plans for it, like growing edible things. In the meantime, they have made a pretty large hole. And they certainly have been coming in the house with very dirty hands, feet, and clothing.
While the young ones dig, wistfully dreaming of a swimming pool, I've been cutting down the tomato jungle. We have seen two mice darting in and out amidst the zucchini and spaghetti squash plants. No pictures; they are fast little critters.
Yesterday Arik said, "Mom, what is that? It's something alive." I glanced and told him it was just a leaf. He poked it and showed me that it was indeed a living creature.
It turned out to be a pink praying mantis. Pink? I thought they are supposed to be green or brown. I briefly researched it online and came across a bunch of differing opinions as to whether a praying mantis could be considered albino.
Last week the kids had their annual doctor's visits. I thought they looked pretty cute in the little gowns.
These two get their fair share of colds and other viruses each year, but in general they are extremely healthy. This was the first doctor visit for either of them in an entire year. I am so extremely thankful for the blessing of their good health. I am so thankful that they are able to dig in the dirt, investigate bugs, and climb trees. I am thankful for the 20 times each day that I remind my son to not hug the chickens quite so hard. And for the 10 times every day that I ask my kids to take a break from wrestling with each other before someone gets hurt. Each day with my loved ones is such a precious gift.
The kids and I have been working out there. The kids say they are going to turn the whole garden into a swimming pool. I must admit I have other plans for it, like growing edible things. In the meantime, they have made a pretty large hole. And they certainly have been coming in the house with very dirty hands, feet, and clothing.
While the young ones dig, wistfully dreaming of a swimming pool, I've been cutting down the tomato jungle. We have seen two mice darting in and out amidst the zucchini and spaghetti squash plants. No pictures; they are fast little critters.
Yesterday Arik said, "Mom, what is that? It's something alive." I glanced and told him it was just a leaf. He poked it and showed me that it was indeed a living creature.
 |
| An albino praying mantis? |
It turned out to be a pink praying mantis. Pink? I thought they are supposed to be green or brown. I briefly researched it online and came across a bunch of differing opinions as to whether a praying mantis could be considered albino.
Last week the kids had their annual doctor's visits. I thought they looked pretty cute in the little gowns.
These two get their fair share of colds and other viruses each year, but in general they are extremely healthy. This was the first doctor visit for either of them in an entire year. I am so extremely thankful for the blessing of their good health. I am so thankful that they are able to dig in the dirt, investigate bugs, and climb trees. I am thankful for the 20 times each day that I remind my son to not hug the chickens quite so hard. And for the 10 times every day that I ask my kids to take a break from wrestling with each other before someone gets hurt. Each day with my loved ones is such a precious gift.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
My little Nubians
The kids and I have been having so much fun learning at home. We have been studying Ancient History, and recently read a book titled "Ancient Egyptians and Their Neighbors" by Marian Broida. This book includes many creative activities.
Honestly, I am often tempted to turn the activity pages as quickly as I can before the kids have a chance to see the projects and ask to do them. Sometimes it just seems like a whole lot of work. But fairly often, I slow down, stop worrying about the mess involved, and dive into a project with the kids. The results are wonderful and memorable.
Anna and Arik helped sew their very own "Nubian Clothes" from an old sheet that I had on hand. Nubia was a kingdom to the South of Egypt. It was located along the Nile in what is now the Southern portion of Egypt and the Northern part of Sudan.
After sewing their Nubian outfits, they decorated them with puffy paint. And yes, some of that paint is now adding color to our very light tan carpet. But these smiles, and the hours they have spent wearing their costumes around the house and yard, are worth the inconvenience of stained carpet and the time and effort it took me to help them with this project. Maybe those green stains (and the purple, blue, black, and orange ones from previous crafts) are meant to remind me to cherish these times with my kids, to not worry about the mess and just enjoy the moments I have with my sweet treasures.
Honestly, I am often tempted to turn the activity pages as quickly as I can before the kids have a chance to see the projects and ask to do them. Sometimes it just seems like a whole lot of work. But fairly often, I slow down, stop worrying about the mess involved, and dive into a project with the kids. The results are wonderful and memorable.
 |
| Anna loves to sew and often asks for opportunities to do so. |
 |
| Arik and Anna both designed and sewed their own hats. |
Anna and Arik helped sew their very own "Nubian Clothes" from an old sheet that I had on hand. Nubia was a kingdom to the South of Egypt. It was located along the Nile in what is now the Southern portion of Egypt and the Northern part of Sudan.
 |
| They seem to be quite pleased with the end results! |
Monday, September 12, 2011
Summer days in the Sunflower House
Near the beginning of the summer, the kids and I planted a Sunflower House. I wrote a little about it in this post.
The sunflowers grew fast. They grew huge.
Anna and Arik spent many happy hours playing in their Sunflower House. We read stories in the shelter of huge blossoms.
Joel and the kids camped in the backyard, right next to the Sunflower House of course.
 |
| Arik and Anna in the Sunflower House in July. |
The sunflowers grew fast. They grew huge.
 |
| Anna near the sunflowers in August. |
Anna and Arik spent many happy hours playing in their Sunflower House. We read stories in the shelter of huge blossoms.
Joel and the kids camped in the backyard, right next to the Sunflower House of course.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
So I was told...
Babies love to listen to their parents' voices, so I was told. With little babies, they say, you can read anything and your sweet little one will just be thrilled because it is mom or dad's voice they are hearing. Perfect! That left me with lots of great ideas. I could read Spanish to my daughter and teach her two languages from infancy. I could read my Bible aloud to her. She'd be hearing scripture while I fit in my Bible study time. My husband, a student at the time, could read his text books to her. Learning, study time, and bonding all rolled into one. I was very excited to begin.
I read some of her baby books to her. Yep, my sweet baby girl loved having me read to her. I started reading to her in Spanish. She cried, she screamed. That little baby, at about 2 months old, was downright mad! I had met a lady from a trilingual family who said her child would get upset if mom or dad spoke in the "wrong" language. (Mom spoke to her in one language, dad in another, and they used a third language to communicate with each other.) Okay, that must be the problem, she just expects me to speak English.
I picked up my Bible and started to read to her. She was ticked! Hmm, maybe she is just tired or hungry at the moment? A tiny baby couldn't really care yet what I read to her, could she? I tried again on other days. Same response. My little darling only wanted me to read to her from children's books. I gave up, but tried again when she was one. Same response, except by then she had words to express her dislike. "No Mommy!" I tried again when she was two. Same response, but with a larger vocabulary. "No Mommy, you don't talk like that!"
Then my son was born. Another chance! My daughter was one picky little baby. Maybe my son will listen if I read the Bible to him and speak to him in Spanish! I gave it a try when he was just a couple months old. He screamed too. So much for that theory.
Thankfully, my kids will now happily listen as I read to them from the Bible. They are also interested in learning Spanish and other languages. I can make plans for my kids lives all day long, but when it comes down to it, I am not in control. But God has got it all figured out. I'll do my best to guide my children's stubborn hearts, but only God can truly direct their paths.
 |
| Cousin Haleigh "reading" to Anna. |
I read some of her baby books to her. Yep, my sweet baby girl loved having me read to her. I started reading to her in Spanish. She cried, she screamed. That little baby, at about 2 months old, was downright mad! I had met a lady from a trilingual family who said her child would get upset if mom or dad spoke in the "wrong" language. (Mom spoke to her in one language, dad in another, and they used a third language to communicate with each other.) Okay, that must be the problem, she just expects me to speak English.
I picked up my Bible and started to read to her. She was ticked! Hmm, maybe she is just tired or hungry at the moment? A tiny baby couldn't really care yet what I read to her, could she? I tried again on other days. Same response. My little darling only wanted me to read to her from children's books. I gave up, but tried again when she was one. Same response, except by then she had words to express her dislike. "No Mommy!" I tried again when she was two. Same response, but with a larger vocabulary. "No Mommy, you don't talk like that!"
Then my son was born. Another chance! My daughter was one picky little baby. Maybe my son will listen if I read the Bible to him and speak to him in Spanish! I gave it a try when he was just a couple months old. He screamed too. So much for that theory.
Thankfully, my kids will now happily listen as I read to them from the Bible. They are also interested in learning Spanish and other languages. I can make plans for my kids lives all day long, but when it comes down to it, I am not in control. But God has got it all figured out. I'll do my best to guide my children's stubborn hearts, but only God can truly direct their paths.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Bits of life
Anna lost her first tooth this week! The tooth fairy came to visit and left money and a letter. Anna's tooth fell out while she was brushing her teeth, getting ready to go have pictures taken at a portrait studio. So fun that her 6 year old picture session happened to be that day.
A hawk had been circling around our yard, hungrily watching our chickens. It even landed on their coop and stared at them for a while one day. For their protection, the chickens have been restricted from their normal free-range days. Yesterday, I felt bad for them and let them out with hopes that the hawk had given up on a chicken dinner. I went back outside to check on the feathered ladies and could only find 3 of them. "Cheepy, where are you?!" I looked all over; searched all the usual hiding spots. No Cheepy. Finally, I looked closely in the nesting boxes. There she was! Later, the kids and I went out to inspect her progress and found 4 eggs. We hadn't been expecting any eggs yet since the chickens are just 4 1/2 months old. Today she laid another egg.
Arik has been saying, "God knows everything. But I know almost everything!" I can't convince him that there really is an awful lot he doesn't know. "My brain is special. It is never wrong." He keeps telling me this, and it is quite obvious that he believes it. Hmm... we could be in trouble with this kid.
Tonight I made spaghetti sauce with homegrown tomatoes and zucchini. Yum! I would be particularly impressed if I had also grown the onion, garlic, and herbs. Maybe next year. I've started making all our bread, thanks to the help of my bread machine. I absolutely love knowing exactly what ingredients are going into the food we eat. I'm wondering what frequently store-purchased product I'll make at home next.
Planning for the rapidly approaching school year is in process. The list of subjects I want to teach the kids is long. Can I fit it all in? I keep having to remind myself that I don't have to do it all this year. I'm thinking we will start with the basics and add in one extra subject each week until our schedule feels right. The kids are especially excited about science and history.
Anna kept begging for more school today. "Mom, can we have school today?" We started with Bible, then did reading, then math. "Mom, can we do more school? I'm ready to have school every day again." History lessons and projects followed this statement. We went outside. "Mom, can we do more school?" "Yes, but only if you go in and pick up the toys first." "Arik, hurry, lets pick up the toys so we can have more school time!" They went inside and cleaned up. We had a science lesson. "Mom, what else can we learn?" So, there you have it. Like so many people say, homeschooled kids are weird. But I'll take this kind of weird any day.
A hawk had been circling around our yard, hungrily watching our chickens. It even landed on their coop and stared at them for a while one day. For their protection, the chickens have been restricted from their normal free-range days. Yesterday, I felt bad for them and let them out with hopes that the hawk had given up on a chicken dinner. I went back outside to check on the feathered ladies and could only find 3 of them. "Cheepy, where are you?!" I looked all over; searched all the usual hiding spots. No Cheepy. Finally, I looked closely in the nesting boxes. There she was! Later, the kids and I went out to inspect her progress and found 4 eggs. We hadn't been expecting any eggs yet since the chickens are just 4 1/2 months old. Today she laid another egg.
Arik has been saying, "God knows everything. But I know almost everything!" I can't convince him that there really is an awful lot he doesn't know. "My brain is special. It is never wrong." He keeps telling me this, and it is quite obvious that he believes it. Hmm... we could be in trouble with this kid.
Tonight I made spaghetti sauce with homegrown tomatoes and zucchini. Yum! I would be particularly impressed if I had also grown the onion, garlic, and herbs. Maybe next year. I've started making all our bread, thanks to the help of my bread machine. I absolutely love knowing exactly what ingredients are going into the food we eat. I'm wondering what frequently store-purchased product I'll make at home next.
Planning for the rapidly approaching school year is in process. The list of subjects I want to teach the kids is long. Can I fit it all in? I keep having to remind myself that I don't have to do it all this year. I'm thinking we will start with the basics and add in one extra subject each week until our schedule feels right. The kids are especially excited about science and history.
Anna kept begging for more school today. "Mom, can we have school today?" We started with Bible, then did reading, then math. "Mom, can we do more school? I'm ready to have school every day again." History lessons and projects followed this statement. We went outside. "Mom, can we do more school?" "Yes, but only if you go in and pick up the toys first." "Arik, hurry, lets pick up the toys so we can have more school time!" They went inside and cleaned up. We had a science lesson. "Mom, what else can we learn?" So, there you have it. Like so many people say, homeschooled kids are weird. But I'll take this kind of weird any day.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
A sunflower house
Last fall, the kids and I discovered this book: Sunflower House by Eve Bunting. They wanted to read it many times. And then, they wanted to plant their very own Sunflower House.
They patiently waited for the arrival of summer, sunflower time. Repeatedly, they reminded me "Don't forget about the Sunflower House! Don't forget to buy seeds." In June, I dug up the soil for the sunflower seeds and the kids joyfully planted.
The sunflowers are growing quickly. We are curious when the blossoms will appear. Anna decided she could be the blossom for now. "Look, Mom, I'm a sunflower!" "Why yes, you are my darling girl! Keep on growing and blooming. I'll try to provide enough water and nutrients. Let Jesus be your sunshine!"
They patiently waited for the arrival of summer, sunflower time. Repeatedly, they reminded me "Don't forget about the Sunflower House! Don't forget to buy seeds." In June, I dug up the soil for the sunflower seeds and the kids joyfully planted.
The sunflowers are growing quickly. We are curious when the blossoms will appear. Anna decided she could be the blossom for now. "Look, Mom, I'm a sunflower!" "Why yes, you are my darling girl! Keep on growing and blooming. I'll try to provide enough water and nutrients. Let Jesus be your sunshine!"
Monday, July 4, 2011
Anna, my chickadee
Six years ago (in April), my daughter Anna was born. I went into labor at 4:00 am on April 22nd. I spent the first 11 hours of labor either pacing back and forth in our tiny apartment or walking around the city of Portland. As Joel and I rode the elevator of our apartment building and walked through the city, people kept asking me when my baby was due. I would respond, "Yesterday." And they would look a bit worried. Imagine if I had told them that I was in labor as we spoke!
At 3:00 pm, we decided it was time to head to the hospital. Anna was born just a few minutes before 9:00 pm. She weighed 8 pounds and 4 ounces.
We had chosen not to find out the gender of our baby during our ultrasound. For some reason, everyone seemed to think that I was having a boy. And I had always pictured myself having a boy first. The doctor said, "It's a girl!" I was so tired from labor, delivery, and not sleeping the past few nights, that it took a while for that news to sink in. A girl! How very exciting!
Anna, our darling baby who would not sleep. Anna was a very content little girl, as long as she was being held. She would sleep some during the day, but at night she would cry unless we were holding her. With me she was happy as long as I was feeding her. For Joel, she would cry any time he sat down. We were a couple of tired new parents, taking shifts holding her throughout the night.
Anna did everything really early. She said her first word at 6 months old and could say dozens of words by 10 months. At 14 months, she would say things like "hexagon" with perfect clarity and an understanding of what it was. She crawled at 6 months and walked at 8 1/2 months. She was a very determined little girl! She loved all fruits and veggies, and hated meat. She wouldn't touch any form of dessert.
Anna was two when her baby brother Arik arrived. She adored him, but was also very jealous. He took up an awful lot of mom and dad's time! Anna was used to having every minute of my undivided attention. They are now great friends and I can't imagine what either of them would do without the other.
We moved to California when Anna was three. I was surprised by just how hard our move was for her; how much she missed her friends. It took her a long time to bond with new friends. She still thinks of her friends in Oregon as her cousins.
When Anna was four, she asked Jesus to be the Lord of her life! What a wonderful day!
Anna completed Kindergarten last month. She is a wonderful student; always eager to learn. She is a great reader and a creative writer. She picks up on math very quickly and really enjoys learning about history and science.
Anna plans to be an artist when she grows up, and a mommy, and a house builder. "I'll be very busy," she says. She loves spending time doing crafts, gardening, taking care of our pets, reading, and playing with Arik. Anna is always most content when she has some type of project or activity to focus on. She absolutely beams when she is given a compliment for something she has done well. I am so thankful that I am able to be home with my kids, and that I get to teach them. We have so much fun!
I love you Anna! I am so glad that you are my daughter!
At 3:00 pm, we decided it was time to head to the hospital. Anna was born just a few minutes before 9:00 pm. She weighed 8 pounds and 4 ounces.
We had chosen not to find out the gender of our baby during our ultrasound. For some reason, everyone seemed to think that I was having a boy. And I had always pictured myself having a boy first. The doctor said, "It's a girl!" I was so tired from labor, delivery, and not sleeping the past few nights, that it took a while for that news to sink in. A girl! How very exciting!
Anna, our darling baby who would not sleep. Anna was a very content little girl, as long as she was being held. She would sleep some during the day, but at night she would cry unless we were holding her. With me she was happy as long as I was feeding her. For Joel, she would cry any time he sat down. We were a couple of tired new parents, taking shifts holding her throughout the night.
Anna did everything really early. She said her first word at 6 months old and could say dozens of words by 10 months. At 14 months, she would say things like "hexagon" with perfect clarity and an understanding of what it was. She crawled at 6 months and walked at 8 1/2 months. She was a very determined little girl! She loved all fruits and veggies, and hated meat. She wouldn't touch any form of dessert.
Anna was two when her baby brother Arik arrived. She adored him, but was also very jealous. He took up an awful lot of mom and dad's time! Anna was used to having every minute of my undivided attention. They are now great friends and I can't imagine what either of them would do without the other.
We moved to California when Anna was three. I was surprised by just how hard our move was for her; how much she missed her friends. It took her a long time to bond with new friends. She still thinks of her friends in Oregon as her cousins.
 |
| These two were like sisters. |
Anna completed Kindergarten last month. She is a wonderful student; always eager to learn. She is a great reader and a creative writer. She picks up on math very quickly and really enjoys learning about history and science.
Anna plans to be an artist when she grows up, and a mommy, and a house builder. "I'll be very busy," she says. She loves spending time doing crafts, gardening, taking care of our pets, reading, and playing with Arik. Anna is always most content when she has some type of project or activity to focus on. She absolutely beams when she is given a compliment for something she has done well. I am so thankful that I am able to be home with my kids, and that I get to teach them. We have so much fun!
I love you Anna! I am so glad that you are my daughter!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Happy Birthday Arik!
Four years ago, my water broke in the afternoon of July 3rd. We called the hospital and they told me to come in right away. I was not happy about being asked to spend most of my time in labor at the hospital. But we listened to their advice and headed to the hospital.
Arik was three weeks early. My husband Joel said I was not allowed to give birth on the 3rd; he said the 4th would be a much better birthday for Arik. Of course I listened to my husband's advice and honored his request! Arik was born around 5:00 am on the morning of July 4th. He came out with the umbilical cord wrapped twice around his neck. Everyone sprang into action, but it turned out that he was just fine. He weighed 7 pounds and 2 ounces.
Right away, Arik had an opinion about everything. He was very angry that the nurse put a band on his arm, and even more angry that he didn't know how take it off or how to reach what he wanted.
He would scream every time we put him in his car seat or a baby carrier, and when I attempted to breast feed him. That little guy got breast milk solely from a bottle for 10 1/2 months. He refused to drink his bottle unless he was held in my left arm. He would often only eat for me. He would only sleep at night if we were holding him. He would throw a fit if his clothes and blankets were not super soft and completely dry.
He decided at 5 months that he wanted to crawl in order to keep up with Anna and her friends. He was determined and did not give up his attempts until he figured out how to crawl at 6 months old. He started crawling at warp speed and hasn't slowed down yet.
I don't know how many times each day we remind him to slow down so he won't hurt himself. He earned the nickname Spiderman at about 8 months old, when I found him clinging to the backrest of the couch and walking along it. He loved to climb stairs, climb on top of the table, run everywhere and climb everything. Arik loves to listen as I read to him; he is often turning somersaults on the couch beside me as I read, or falling off the end. He pops back up and says, "I didn't get hurt too bad!"
Arik continues to prefer all his clothes to be super soft. He sleeps surrounded by fleece blankets. He says his flannel sheets are "too itchy." Arik is a very thoughtful, enthusiastic, and charming little boy. He loves to be around people and have a conversation with anyone who will take the time to talk with him. He loves giving and receiving hugs. Arik likes to figure out how things work. He turns his bike upside down to study the gears. He uses a screw driver to open up all his toys and see how they are put together. He loves math, history, and science. In September of this year, Arik prayed and asked Jesus to be the Lord of his life. What a wonderful day!
Happy Birthday Arik! I am so glad that you are my son!
Arik was three weeks early. My husband Joel said I was not allowed to give birth on the 3rd; he said the 4th would be a much better birthday for Arik. Of course I listened to my husband's advice and honored his request! Arik was born around 5:00 am on the morning of July 4th. He came out with the umbilical cord wrapped twice around his neck. Everyone sprang into action, but it turned out that he was just fine. He weighed 7 pounds and 2 ounces.
Right away, Arik had an opinion about everything. He was very angry that the nurse put a band on his arm, and even more angry that he didn't know how take it off or how to reach what he wanted.
He would scream every time we put him in his car seat or a baby carrier, and when I attempted to breast feed him. That little guy got breast milk solely from a bottle for 10 1/2 months. He refused to drink his bottle unless he was held in my left arm. He would often only eat for me. He would only sleep at night if we were holding him. He would throw a fit if his clothes and blankets were not super soft and completely dry.
He decided at 5 months that he wanted to crawl in order to keep up with Anna and her friends. He was determined and did not give up his attempts until he figured out how to crawl at 6 months old. He started crawling at warp speed and hasn't slowed down yet.
I don't know how many times each day we remind him to slow down so he won't hurt himself. He earned the nickname Spiderman at about 8 months old, when I found him clinging to the backrest of the couch and walking along it. He loved to climb stairs, climb on top of the table, run everywhere and climb everything. Arik loves to listen as I read to him; he is often turning somersaults on the couch beside me as I read, or falling off the end. He pops back up and says, "I didn't get hurt too bad!"
Arik continues to prefer all his clothes to be super soft. He sleeps surrounded by fleece blankets. He says his flannel sheets are "too itchy." Arik is a very thoughtful, enthusiastic, and charming little boy. He loves to be around people and have a conversation with anyone who will take the time to talk with him. He loves giving and receiving hugs. Arik likes to figure out how things work. He turns his bike upside down to study the gears. He uses a screw driver to open up all his toys and see how they are put together. He loves math, history, and science. In September of this year, Arik prayed and asked Jesus to be the Lord of his life. What a wonderful day!
Happy Birthday Arik! I am so glad that you are my son!
Friday, July 1, 2011
Eavesdropping
A few weeks ago I was listening to my kids as they played a game together. My son, Arik, explained a rule he would like to have for the game. My daughter, Anna, replied, "How about I always choose the rules, the oldest kid always decides. Say 'Okay,' Arik."
I continued to listen, curious how he would respond. Arik paused and sat quietly thinking for a moment. "Okay," he agreed to Anna's role as the dictator. Is he happy with that rule? Or was he simply trying to avoid conflict?
As a young child, I too almost always did exactly what my older brother told or asked me to do. I don't remember being bothered by it. Sibling relationships and birth order are very interesting to behold. How have your relationships and interactions with your siblings impacted who you are today?
I continued to listen, curious how he would respond. Arik paused and sat quietly thinking for a moment. "Okay," he agreed to Anna's role as the dictator. Is he happy with that rule? Or was he simply trying to avoid conflict?
As a young child, I too almost always did exactly what my older brother told or asked me to do. I don't remember being bothered by it. Sibling relationships and birth order are very interesting to behold. How have your relationships and interactions with your siblings impacted who you are today?
 |
| My brothers (and my niece!) and me. |
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Lessons from the garden
I had a huge list of fruits and vegetables that I wanted to be able to fit into our spring and summer garden. Joel and I dug and hoed, dug and did more hoeing. We prepared a pretty large garden plot, especially considering that we dug all that hard, dry soil by hand. But still, there wasn't enough room for all I had hoped to plant. We dug an extra garden plot for the corn. Still not enough space.
I planned and mapped out the garden, planting everything as close as possible according to the directions of the seed packets. If it said to plant something 2 to 3 feet apart, I was sure to plant it 2 feet apart. As a result, my tomato bushes are like an overgrown jungle. There is no way to get into the center to pick the fruits. Will the plants become so immense that they overwhelm and harm one another?
The peas are crowding into the beans; the beans are trying to overtake the carrots. There are no longer aisles to walk down and the plants are certainly still growing! How will we reach the vegetables that are ready to harvest? I'm a novice gardener. I'm learning as I go!
I'm a novice parent too. I've never done it before. Hopefully I'll be a fast learner when it comes to raising my kids! It would be easy for me to "sow" the lives of my children in much the same manner as I planted my garden. I would love for them to be taking swimming lessons, piano and voice lessons, art classes, gymnastics, karate, soccer, Spanish, Sign Language, Latin... The list could go on and on. Perhaps God had a distinct plan in limiting our transportation and finances in this season of our lives?
Anna and Arik are so happy at home. They enjoy playing together, using their imaginations, exploring the mud and bugs in the yard, listening as I read countless stories. They like to go places from time to time, but they always seem so overjoyed to be home again.
Plenty of relaxed time at home really does seem to be the best "garden" for young children. I plant seeds of learning; my kids soak it all in due to their natural curiosity and fascination with everything around them. Childhood to adulthood is one long growing season. It can be easy to become concerned about what my harvest will be. Am I providing enough fertilizer, water, sun, and shade? Am I providing too much? I can't plant everything I want to in their lives. So what is the most important? I want my children to know and love Jesus. I want them to love and help others. I want them to love learning and reading.
It was important for me to prepare the soil for the plants in the garden. I need to provide water and pull weeds, and train a few of them to grow in the right direction. But mostly, I need to leave them alone and trust that as God provides sun, the vegetables will grow. Gardening and parenting may just have a lot in common!
I planned and mapped out the garden, planting everything as close as possible according to the directions of the seed packets. If it said to plant something 2 to 3 feet apart, I was sure to plant it 2 feet apart. As a result, my tomato bushes are like an overgrown jungle. There is no way to get into the center to pick the fruits. Will the plants become so immense that they overwhelm and harm one another?
The peas are crowding into the beans; the beans are trying to overtake the carrots. There are no longer aisles to walk down and the plants are certainly still growing! How will we reach the vegetables that are ready to harvest? I'm a novice gardener. I'm learning as I go!
I'm a novice parent too. I've never done it before. Hopefully I'll be a fast learner when it comes to raising my kids! It would be easy for me to "sow" the lives of my children in much the same manner as I planted my garden. I would love for them to be taking swimming lessons, piano and voice lessons, art classes, gymnastics, karate, soccer, Spanish, Sign Language, Latin... The list could go on and on. Perhaps God had a distinct plan in limiting our transportation and finances in this season of our lives?
Anna and Arik are so happy at home. They enjoy playing together, using their imaginations, exploring the mud and bugs in the yard, listening as I read countless stories. They like to go places from time to time, but they always seem so overjoyed to be home again.
Plenty of relaxed time at home really does seem to be the best "garden" for young children. I plant seeds of learning; my kids soak it all in due to their natural curiosity and fascination with everything around them. Childhood to adulthood is one long growing season. It can be easy to become concerned about what my harvest will be. Am I providing enough fertilizer, water, sun, and shade? Am I providing too much? I can't plant everything I want to in their lives. So what is the most important? I want my children to know and love Jesus. I want them to love and help others. I want them to love learning and reading.
It was important for me to prepare the soil for the plants in the garden. I need to provide water and pull weeds, and train a few of them to grow in the right direction. But mostly, I need to leave them alone and trust that as God provides sun, the vegetables will grow. Gardening and parenting may just have a lot in common!
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Worship!
Lately my kids have been joining me for all or part of our church worship service. Typically they have gone to their separate Sunday School classes. I love having them with me in church! I really enjoy worshiping God with my children, at home throughout the week and on Sundays at church. It is a wonderful way for them to watch and learn as I, and the other adults around them, worship God. I find that our hearts bond together even more through our time in church together.
It is challenging for them to sit still and be quiet, and it is more challenging for me to focus when they are there. With practice, however, we are all getting better at it. The results are certainly worth the effort. I love how even my 3 year old (a very active and talkative boy) listens to the pastor and asks me questions about the sermon.
It is challenging for them to sit still and be quiet, and it is more challenging for me to focus when they are there. With practice, however, we are all getting better at it. The results are certainly worth the effort. I love how even my 3 year old (a very active and talkative boy) listens to the pastor and asks me questions about the sermon.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
