I am a feisty redheaded mom of 5. I used to be a FAT chick, but am now what I consider chubby, if a size 12 is chubby. I used to weigh 270 at my highest and now weigh 175. I am addicted to Mexican food, pretzel M&M's, Diet Coke, kissing my baby (because he's the only one that can't get away) and my daily walks. I don't really have any talents to speak of- I can't cook, sew, scrapbook, take good pictures, etc etc. I am however a loyal friend and I think I'm pretty damn funny, so there! I am very good at- long bubble baths, Facebook, and window shopping. Right now my house is for sale and my hubby just started another job and cut his hours at his primary job. So, we are broke and it sucks. But, what can you do? I tried my hand at home-schooling my daughter but I felt tied down and she was bored so now, it's just me, my baby, and my oldest son who is both out of school AND unemployed. It's a barrel of fun. Not really. I hope to pick blogging up again full time. I can't promise I'll stick to it. I really hope I can provide a sounding board for myself and a laugh for y'all. If I am feeling ambitious I may fancy up my background and such and if y'all are lucky- I might even post some pictures. Don't count on it though. One thing I realized after having another baby- my kids are the boss around here not me. I'm just glad I get to eat and periodically shower....
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Sunday, October 10, 2010
She's baaaaaaacccckkkk!
Don't get too excited, I may up and quit before the week is out... But, either way- I thought I'd re-acquaint y'all with me. So, here goes.
I am a feisty redheaded mom of 5. I used to be a FAT chick, but am now what I consider chubby, if a size 12 is chubby. I used to weigh 270 at my highest and now weigh 175. I am addicted to Mexican food, pretzel M&M's, Diet Coke, kissing my baby (because he's the only one that can't get away) and my daily walks. I don't really have any talents to speak of- I can't cook, sew, scrapbook, take good pictures, etc etc. I am however a loyal friend and I think I'm pretty damn funny, so there! I am very good at- long bubble baths, Facebook, and window shopping. Right now my house is for sale and my hubby just started another job and cut his hours at his primary job. So, we are broke and it sucks. But, what can you do? I tried my hand at home-schooling my daughter but I felt tied down and she was bored so now, it's just me, my baby, and my oldest son who is both out of school AND unemployed. It's a barrel of fun. Not really. I hope to pick blogging up again full time. I can't promise I'll stick to it. I really hope I can provide a sounding board for myself and a laugh for y'all. If I am feeling ambitious I may fancy up my background and such and if y'all are lucky- I might even post some pictures. Don't count on it though. One thing I realized after having another baby- my kids are the boss around here not me. I'm just glad I get to eat and periodically shower....
I am a feisty redheaded mom of 5. I used to be a FAT chick, but am now what I consider chubby, if a size 12 is chubby. I used to weigh 270 at my highest and now weigh 175. I am addicted to Mexican food, pretzel M&M's, Diet Coke, kissing my baby (because he's the only one that can't get away) and my daily walks. I don't really have any talents to speak of- I can't cook, sew, scrapbook, take good pictures, etc etc. I am however a loyal friend and I think I'm pretty damn funny, so there! I am very good at- long bubble baths, Facebook, and window shopping. Right now my house is for sale and my hubby just started another job and cut his hours at his primary job. So, we are broke and it sucks. But, what can you do? I tried my hand at home-schooling my daughter but I felt tied down and she was bored so now, it's just me, my baby, and my oldest son who is both out of school AND unemployed. It's a barrel of fun. Not really. I hope to pick blogging up again full time. I can't promise I'll stick to it. I really hope I can provide a sounding board for myself and a laugh for y'all. If I am feeling ambitious I may fancy up my background and such and if y'all are lucky- I might even post some pictures. Don't count on it though. One thing I realized after having another baby- my kids are the boss around here not me. I'm just glad I get to eat and periodically shower....
Friday, July 2, 2010
HI!
Yeah, so I'm even worse at blogging than before...oops! I am not gonna make an excuse, just know that with 5 kids time for myself is sparse.
So- here's the rundown:
I am absolutely obsessed with weight loss. I'm 2 pounds away from being under 200 and I couldn't be happier! Yes I could- if I was 140. I am hoping I can get there by January. My total weight loss is 28.4 pounds and just over 12 inches, 5 of those in my hips alone... As long as I get in some exercise, don't go over my calories, and my chores are done I'm good. Oh yeah, I do try to hang with the kids as much as possible.
Jon is working ALL THE TIME and he is the #1 playmate around here, so the kids are bored out of their minds. I'm having a hard time thinking of inexpensive activities for kids ranging from 9 months to 18 years. Our pool is green- we are missing an important part that helps the pool stay chlorinated so swimming is out. I can't take Cam to movies so that's out. Jon used to be off on Wednesdays and during summer that was our big family activity day, but no more. The X-box broke so video games are out. So, we're kinda bummed and blah. It's bugging the kids more than me since I'm so focused on weight loss.
Chan is having a hard time finding job, which stinks. He might be living here til he's 30... we'll see. He spends most of his time reading and playing guitar. He is also working on his weight and has lost 15 pounds since graduation.
Chloe, Hunter, and Hayden are just chillin' every day. Fighting over the computer, sleeping too late and being annoying.
Cam is FINALLY sleeping in his crib at night. He cried quite a bit at first but has done fairly well. Last night he slept for 11 hours without waking up! He still naps in my arms, the car, or the stroller. But, Rome wasn't built in a day right? He is cruising furniture like crazy, crawling everywhere and his two words are dadada and lalala. Super cute! He also just got two teeth that have barely busted through his gums the last few days.
So, that's about it! I totally understand if NO ONE reads this anymore. And, comments? Who needs 'em? See y'all soon!
So- here's the rundown:
I am absolutely obsessed with weight loss. I'm 2 pounds away from being under 200 and I couldn't be happier! Yes I could- if I was 140. I am hoping I can get there by January. My total weight loss is 28.4 pounds and just over 12 inches, 5 of those in my hips alone... As long as I get in some exercise, don't go over my calories, and my chores are done I'm good. Oh yeah, I do try to hang with the kids as much as possible.
Jon is working ALL THE TIME and he is the #1 playmate around here, so the kids are bored out of their minds. I'm having a hard time thinking of inexpensive activities for kids ranging from 9 months to 18 years. Our pool is green- we are missing an important part that helps the pool stay chlorinated so swimming is out. I can't take Cam to movies so that's out. Jon used to be off on Wednesdays and during summer that was our big family activity day, but no more. The X-box broke so video games are out. So, we're kinda bummed and blah. It's bugging the kids more than me since I'm so focused on weight loss.
Chan is having a hard time finding job, which stinks. He might be living here til he's 30... we'll see. He spends most of his time reading and playing guitar. He is also working on his weight and has lost 15 pounds since graduation.
Chloe, Hunter, and Hayden are just chillin' every day. Fighting over the computer, sleeping too late and being annoying.
Cam is FINALLY sleeping in his crib at night. He cried quite a bit at first but has done fairly well. Last night he slept for 11 hours without waking up! He still naps in my arms, the car, or the stroller. But, Rome wasn't built in a day right? He is cruising furniture like crazy, crawling everywhere and his two words are dadada and lalala. Super cute! He also just got two teeth that have barely busted through his gums the last few days.
So, that's about it! I totally understand if NO ONE reads this anymore. And, comments? Who needs 'em? See y'all soon!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
He's got him a high school deeplomaaa!
Oh my gosh... really. I cannot believe my Chan graduated high school. Not that I ever doubted him, not one bit. I am seriously dripping snot and tears as I type this. I guess I'm not good with change, or knowing that he's officially a big kid now and technically doesn't need me anymore. Basically the scissors are hovering near the apron strings and I'm trying to back away... All these years I knew it would hit me HARD when graduation day came. I had him my Senior year and didn't do the whole walk across the stage thing and this was like I graduated right along with him. I just can't believe I won't have to replace another school ID or wash his favorite dress code shorts at midnight or make him his favorite brown bag lunch again and that is making the lump in my throat bigger than it needs to be. I remember every single moment of his first day of kindergarten: he had sausage and pancakes and wore a black and white t-shirt with jeans and these little Payless brand tennis shoes. We even stopped at Sack -n- Save for kleenex because that's a "required" school supply item and I believe we got him an ultra groovy soccer backpack at S&S too. Weird. I was so afraid he was gonna cry and that little fart walked away from me and started coloring and said- "you can go now Mom". Umm, okay. And, he has continued to amaze me ever since- winning 3 spelling bees to reading Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings in 2ND GRADE!! And, man oh man all the neat stories he would write. He has always loved literature and it wasn't until he was 15 that he developed a love of music and guitar. I am just so very happy that I have been able to get to know, teach, and love this kid and love that he teaches me too. I asked my friend Kathi earlier when the lump in my throat would go away and she said never, it just changes as life does and as you experience more and more as you live. Well put. However, I wish mine would simmer down a bit. I'm having a hard time breathing.
Anyway- yesterday was nuts! Typical for us of course but I think it was nuttier than normal. It was a very long day. Starting with Hayden's field day and ending with Chan's graduation. The venue was jampacked and parking was scarce. I ended up parking in a lot but then it started pouring and the attendant ducked for cover, so I never paid, oops. I had Hunter and Cam with me and my mom went in with Chloe and Jon, Hayden, and Chan had gotten there earlier. I was so afraid I was gonna miss him walking in but thankfully I was able to get in there in time. As soon as the music started I stood in amazement and bawled like a baby. And, let's see- I couldn't take my stroller in the stands, my carseat was blocking the aisle and Cam lost patience quick. All in all I was in and out of the stands about ten times. Getting out to leave was insane, I lost my whole family and was shoved many many times. Which, for a feisty redhead was not fun, I tried super hard to maintain my cool.... It was just a crazy night. I drove my mom back to Grand Prairie and scarfed down two Whataburger taquitos in her driveway, the first meal I'd had since noon and it was nearing midnight. Anyway- I am not sure what the future holds for Chan or any of us to be honest. But, I am sorta excited to find out!
about to take their seats for the ceremony
The Graduate!
our family
mama and her baby
the official document
Anyway- yesterday was nuts! Typical for us of course but I think it was nuttier than normal. It was a very long day. Starting with Hayden's field day and ending with Chan's graduation. The venue was jampacked and parking was scarce. I ended up parking in a lot but then it started pouring and the attendant ducked for cover, so I never paid, oops. I had Hunter and Cam with me and my mom went in with Chloe and Jon, Hayden, and Chan had gotten there earlier. I was so afraid I was gonna miss him walking in but thankfully I was able to get in there in time. As soon as the music started I stood in amazement and bawled like a baby. And, let's see- I couldn't take my stroller in the stands, my carseat was blocking the aisle and Cam lost patience quick. All in all I was in and out of the stands about ten times. Getting out to leave was insane, I lost my whole family and was shoved many many times. Which, for a feisty redhead was not fun, I tried super hard to maintain my cool.... It was just a crazy night. I drove my mom back to Grand Prairie and scarfed down two Whataburger taquitos in her driveway, the first meal I'd had since noon and it was nearing midnight. Anyway- I am not sure what the future holds for Chan or any of us to be honest. But, I am sorta excited to find out!
about to take their seats for the ceremony
The Graduate!
our family
mama and her baby
the official document
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Holy Cow! 700 posts?!
Oh crap! My life is INSANE lately. I cannot stress that enough. Jon started a second full time job on Monday and I have been playing single parent and it is HARD. He's been working 6am til about 8pm every night. My kids are driving me nuts- mainly my daughter and my baby. Chloe is just a giant teenage drama queen. Camden is so spoiled that not having his mommy to himself like normal has turned him into a ginormous cry baby. He has fussed so much this week that he is hoarse. Blah! My other kids, on the other hand, are being complete angels.
Anyway, I did want too acknowledge my 700th post! I cannot believe I was able to talk/type that much interesting (I hope) stuff. I am doing an awesome giveaway to kick off Summer. I am crossing my fingers that by tomorrow morning I'll have it ready to present.... I sure hope you've enjoyed reading all about my life- kids, husbands, babies, teenagers, periods and poop to name a few highlights! Now, I'm off to get kids from school and take Chan to his physical therapy appointment. Oh and Cam's out of baby food and I need to go to the DMV and I have to make cupcakes and buy a gift, and.... you get the point.
THANKS for reading! I love y'all to bits! Keep checking for my giveaway, it'll be on here before the goodies are obsolete, I hope.
Anyway, I did want too acknowledge my 700th post! I cannot believe I was able to talk/type that much interesting (I hope) stuff. I am doing an awesome giveaway to kick off Summer. I am crossing my fingers that by tomorrow morning I'll have it ready to present.... I sure hope you've enjoyed reading all about my life- kids, husbands, babies, teenagers, periods and poop to name a few highlights! Now, I'm off to get kids from school and take Chan to his physical therapy appointment. Oh and Cam's out of baby food and I need to go to the DMV and I have to make cupcakes and buy a gift, and.... you get the point.
THANKS for reading! I love y'all to bits! Keep checking for my giveaway, it'll be on here before the goodies are obsolete, I hope.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
I've lost that blogging feeling...
I really miss my blog so so much. It bums me out that I no longer have time for it. And, I've tried- I really have. I even gloated in my last post that I was gonna get back into blogging full force... It seems since then that life got even more hectic, if that's even possible. I've also gotten out of the habit. Plus, I honestly feel as if I have nothing good or funny or interesting to say, dangit. I mean, my older kids are to the point where they are gone with friends or texting or yelling at me so there's no blog material there. Hayden still says some dang funny crap and does cute stuff but when you're out of the habit of blogging it just gets tucked into your memory instead of on the computer. I'm not gonna say I'm taking a break- wouldn't wanna cause anyone to roll their eyes at me! But, I will say that I would really like to pick it back up again I just don't know if I'll be able to. Honestly, my hats off to those of you who find time to update and make me smile! Each morning I hit the floor running and work away at laundry and little bits of exercise and chores. Plus, I spend a ton of time playing and cuddling with Camden. We try and venture out to the park or shopping or lunch with friends a few times a week. But really my days are jam packed and there are only so many hours in a day. However, in the Spirit of Ashley I am gonna do A LIST!
Reasons Why I Never Blog Anymore
1) I do at least 3 loads of laundry a day which takes a ton of time and sucks royally...
2) My entire family is sharing one computer (6 people x 1 computer = no blogging)
3) I have a 7 month old baby who is already pulling up, crawling, and generally being a big handful!
4) I have been preparing a big home cooked meal every night and it takes me at least 2 hours between the baby and preparation not to mention cleanup and whatnot. Ugh! Remind me why family dinner is important again?!
5) I am cheating on my blog with Facebook. It's express blogging! Much faster and easier and like 10 times the comments :)
6) I've been spending a little bit of time exercising, which is much better for my butt than the desk chair.
7) I am having a love affair with my iPhone and this nifty game called Words with Friends. It's superb!
8) I've lost the knack! I 100% think I am way too boring for blogging words... Really, I don't know what to blog about anymore
9) I let myself get out of the habit, unfortunately.
10) If I'm gonna take time to do something for myself it's not gonna be on the computer. I'm gonna read a book or get a pedicure or something.
11) Having a much desired baby come into an already hectic, nutty, household has kicked my butt- but good! I have said that before but I don't think anyone realizes unless you have a kid who is crying, nursing, getting into crap or whining to be held. Plus, his 30 minute naps unless he's on his mom's tittay are also a factor. If I ever get pregnant again... so help me Lord.
12) My stomach problems. I finally had an ultrasound today and hope it shows what's wrong. If not I have to go in for an endoscopy. There are days when I have a million things planned but if my tummy is acting up I barely leave the couch or get to eat. Case in point- I recently lost 7 pounds in 5 days.
I think that pretty much sums it up. I reallyreallyreally love my blog and I love to read all of my friend's blogs but there just aren't enough hours in the day. Keep checking mine and I'll keep checking yours ;) I may just surprise you one day and update this bad boy. I love all of y'all to bits and I am so so grateful for the friendships, memories, and support that have been born since I started blogging. Muah!
a recent "project"- one current pic of each kiddo (wait, how did I have time to do that??)
Reasons Why I Never Blog Anymore
1) I do at least 3 loads of laundry a day which takes a ton of time and sucks royally...
2) My entire family is sharing one computer (6 people x 1 computer = no blogging)
3) I have a 7 month old baby who is already pulling up, crawling, and generally being a big handful!
4) I have been preparing a big home cooked meal every night and it takes me at least 2 hours between the baby and preparation not to mention cleanup and whatnot. Ugh! Remind me why family dinner is important again?!
5) I am cheating on my blog with Facebook. It's express blogging! Much faster and easier and like 10 times the comments :)
6) I've been spending a little bit of time exercising, which is much better for my butt than the desk chair.
7) I am having a love affair with my iPhone and this nifty game called Words with Friends. It's superb!
8) I've lost the knack! I 100% think I am way too boring for blogging words... Really, I don't know what to blog about anymore
9) I let myself get out of the habit, unfortunately.
10) If I'm gonna take time to do something for myself it's not gonna be on the computer. I'm gonna read a book or get a pedicure or something.
11) Having a much desired baby come into an already hectic, nutty, household has kicked my butt- but good! I have said that before but I don't think anyone realizes unless you have a kid who is crying, nursing, getting into crap or whining to be held. Plus, his 30 minute naps unless he's on his mom's tittay are also a factor. If I ever get pregnant again... so help me Lord.
12) My stomach problems. I finally had an ultrasound today and hope it shows what's wrong. If not I have to go in for an endoscopy. There are days when I have a million things planned but if my tummy is acting up I barely leave the couch or get to eat. Case in point- I recently lost 7 pounds in 5 days.
I think that pretty much sums it up. I reallyreallyreally love my blog and I love to read all of my friend's blogs but there just aren't enough hours in the day. Keep checking mine and I'll keep checking yours ;) I may just surprise you one day and update this bad boy. I love all of y'all to bits and I am so so grateful for the friendships, memories, and support that have been born since I started blogging. Muah!
a recent "project"- one current pic of each kiddo (wait, how did I have time to do that??)
Friday, February 19, 2010
She's Baaaack.... (she thinks)
Ok, so I guess I'm gonna try and get back to this blog thing. This first post back will be an update so to speak. Since I last blogged, the following things have occurred:
Hunter turned 14. We had pizza, cake, and a few friends over. A good time was had by all. Yes, I have pics. No, I'm not posting them now. Maybe later.
My parents celebrated their 50th anniversary. A few of us kiddos threw them a small dinner party to celebrate. We had yummy Mexican food and a delightfully tacky gold and creme cake. A great slideshow with awesome music and good conversation. Again, I took some pics before my camera started acting stoopid and I may or may not post some.
Camden came down with RSV! My first official experience with it. Thankfully it was a mild case and he only needed breathing treatments for a week. Whew! He was pretty fussy and miserable but we made it!
I have had SEVERAL people mad at me for various DUMB reasons. They run the gamut from I am a stay home mom and that's not fair to those that have to work, to who I'm friends with- both on Facebook and in person, to the fact that I am what I am and apparently there are things about me that are super duper annoying, who knew? Honestly, I don't give a crap. I'm sorry, but I'm never gonna be sorry. Accept me or reject me just please quit whining.
I joined a gym. That's right, a gym. I have been wearing knit stretchy fabrics and oversized tops for a year and I am sick of it. It's time to lose the maternity garb and get moving again. I NEED to get this weight off. Plus, I am hoping to release some feel good endorphins. We'll see. I doubt I will ever be thin. Scratch that, I KNOW I'll never be thin. But, a girl's gotta try!
Camden grew up a whole lot! He is currently: rocking on all fours, doing full complete turns when he's on his belly by scooting in a circle, rolling 2 or 3 feet at a time, and my favorite- constantly smiling and giggling. I love it! He is soo sweet! However, he still loathes baby food except plain rice cereal. I confess I have given him a few bites of avocado, refried beans and some vanilla yogurt, all of which he loved! He better not be a picky eater like Hayden or I'm done for!
We got a buttload of snow, try not to get a visual ;). But, unless you live under a rock you know that D/FW got record snowfall last week. It was absolutely gorgeous. I could get used to more frequent snow, maybe. The kids had a blast and it was really neat to look out and see bright white pretty snow. The after effect was pretty ugly. Dying snowmen, mountains of dirty wet clothes and mud.
Chandler went to his orthopedic surgeon and will be having an ACL/MCL reconstruction next week. They call his type of injury the "Unhappy Triad". Basically they take a piece of tendon from his knee and rebuild his ACL and his MCL. Good times. I hope he recovers as easily as Jon did when he had it done back in '02 minus the vomiting and fainting spells. Lucky me- I was nursing a 6 month old baby back then and I will be doing the same thing now. Makes changing ice packs, wrapping body parts so they don't get wet in the shower and fetching food SO MUCH FUN...
Hunter has a new girlfriend! Her name is Ashley. She thinks I'm sweet and cute and she loves my red hair. I like her ALOT! He is also so dang good with Camden, it's crazy. He frequently tells me how much he loves Cam and how cool he is, it's really sweet.
Hayden is being tested for gifted in the Spring. This didn't come from left field, this came from the parking lot at the baseball stadium! He is a smart boy but I always thought his atleticism and motor skills (learning to ride a bike by himself at age 3) were his strong suits- not school. We shall see, his teacher seems to think he might qualify for the gifted program.
Chloe hit preteen harder than I thought was ever possible. She has had her toe into tween for awhile, but wowza things have been u-g-l-y lately. Tantrums, insults, door slamming, makeup swiping from mommy to name a few. And, the icing on the cake? She removed me as her friend on Facebook because she didn't like a comment I made on her status. Ouch...
And, last but certainly not least. I have postpartum depression and it sucks. I am not gonna go into detail now. I am gonna blog about it this weekend. No holds barred. I'm gonna spill my guts. I'm gonna rant and rave and more than likely there will be tears shed, both by me and maybe some of y'all. I really need to gather my thoughts about what to say and stuff. Just please, pray for me. I really want to feel better.
The end... for now.
Hunter turned 14. We had pizza, cake, and a few friends over. A good time was had by all. Yes, I have pics. No, I'm not posting them now. Maybe later.
My parents celebrated their 50th anniversary. A few of us kiddos threw them a small dinner party to celebrate. We had yummy Mexican food and a delightfully tacky gold and creme cake. A great slideshow with awesome music and good conversation. Again, I took some pics before my camera started acting stoopid and I may or may not post some.
Camden came down with RSV! My first official experience with it. Thankfully it was a mild case and he only needed breathing treatments for a week. Whew! He was pretty fussy and miserable but we made it!
I have had SEVERAL people mad at me for various DUMB reasons. They run the gamut from I am a stay home mom and that's not fair to those that have to work, to who I'm friends with- both on Facebook and in person, to the fact that I am what I am and apparently there are things about me that are super duper annoying, who knew? Honestly, I don't give a crap. I'm sorry, but I'm never gonna be sorry. Accept me or reject me just please quit whining.
I joined a gym. That's right, a gym. I have been wearing knit stretchy fabrics and oversized tops for a year and I am sick of it. It's time to lose the maternity garb and get moving again. I NEED to get this weight off. Plus, I am hoping to release some feel good endorphins. We'll see. I doubt I will ever be thin. Scratch that, I KNOW I'll never be thin. But, a girl's gotta try!
Camden grew up a whole lot! He is currently: rocking on all fours, doing full complete turns when he's on his belly by scooting in a circle, rolling 2 or 3 feet at a time, and my favorite- constantly smiling and giggling. I love it! He is soo sweet! However, he still loathes baby food except plain rice cereal. I confess I have given him a few bites of avocado, refried beans and some vanilla yogurt, all of which he loved! He better not be a picky eater like Hayden or I'm done for!
We got a buttload of snow, try not to get a visual ;). But, unless you live under a rock you know that D/FW got record snowfall last week. It was absolutely gorgeous. I could get used to more frequent snow, maybe. The kids had a blast and it was really neat to look out and see bright white pretty snow. The after effect was pretty ugly. Dying snowmen, mountains of dirty wet clothes and mud.
Chandler went to his orthopedic surgeon and will be having an ACL/MCL reconstruction next week. They call his type of injury the "Unhappy Triad". Basically they take a piece of tendon from his knee and rebuild his ACL and his MCL. Good times. I hope he recovers as easily as Jon did when he had it done back in '02 minus the vomiting and fainting spells. Lucky me- I was nursing a 6 month old baby back then and I will be doing the same thing now. Makes changing ice packs, wrapping body parts so they don't get wet in the shower and fetching food SO MUCH FUN...
Hunter has a new girlfriend! Her name is Ashley. She thinks I'm sweet and cute and she loves my red hair. I like her ALOT! He is also so dang good with Camden, it's crazy. He frequently tells me how much he loves Cam and how cool he is, it's really sweet.
Hayden is being tested for gifted in the Spring. This didn't come from left field, this came from the parking lot at the baseball stadium! He is a smart boy but I always thought his atleticism and motor skills (learning to ride a bike by himself at age 3) were his strong suits- not school. We shall see, his teacher seems to think he might qualify for the gifted program.
Chloe hit preteen harder than I thought was ever possible. She has had her toe into tween for awhile, but wowza things have been u-g-l-y lately. Tantrums, insults, door slamming, makeup swiping from mommy to name a few. And, the icing on the cake? She removed me as her friend on Facebook because she didn't like a comment I made on her status. Ouch...
And, last but certainly not least. I have postpartum depression and it sucks. I am not gonna go into detail now. I am gonna blog about it this weekend. No holds barred. I'm gonna spill my guts. I'm gonna rant and rave and more than likely there will be tears shed, both by me and maybe some of y'all. I really need to gather my thoughts about what to say and stuff. Just please, pray for me. I really want to feel better.
The end... for now.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Behind the Scenes
I have to THANK my friend Erica for taking such great great pictures of our family for our Christmas cards. At first, she sent me only the best ones but Jon wanted to get all of them, so I begged her for the not so great ones, mainly for laughs. And, boy they didn't disappoint. Erica is just learning photography and wanted some practice with a bigger group and I am broke so I paid her in cookies. The kids did as well as could be expected but were still giant turds much of the time. And, I have proof! Take a look at these bad boys. My kids are boogers but man they are funny and I wouldn't trade any of them and their drama/antics/monkey business/crap for the world!
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Christmas 2009
Ok, so Christmas 2009 was.... interesting. I got some pics but not near enough. Mainly of me, Chloe, Cam, and Hayden. But, I have only downloaded pics from one of three cameras. I did get pics of the snow!! I HOPE to have my crap together next year. Maybe I'll decorate in one day instead of over the course of a week, maybe I'll bake or even try another gingerbread house. We'll see. Having a baby turned my already chaotic house even more crazy so I was not my normal organized self. Don't laugh. Here are some photos. I may or may not add some more. Probably not, but one can hope.
Camden in his OU beanie
snow! in Texas! on Christmas morning!
snow by the pool
Chandler's haul
Hunter's goodies
Chloe's loot
Hayden's stuff
baby Cam's first Christmas
bitter beer face
watching the game
me and Cam (bad pic of me as a "bow head")
Hayden's homemade "Keep Out" sign... thank goodness for washable markers
Chloe in her Natalie Dee T shirt (reads: Koala Farts Smell Like Cough Drops)
Chloe in the snow (beautiful girl!)
Chloe and Hayden playing in the snow
Camden in his OU beanie
snow! in Texas! on Christmas morning!
snow by the pool
Chandler's haul
Hunter's goodies
Chloe's loot
Hayden's stuff
baby Cam's first Christmas
bitter beer face
watching the game
me and Cam (bad pic of me as a "bow head")
Hayden's homemade "Keep Out" sign... thank goodness for washable markers
Chloe in her Natalie Dee T shirt (reads: Koala Farts Smell Like Cough Drops)
Chloe in the snow (beautiful girl!)
Chloe and Hayden playing in the snow
Monday, December 28, 2009
Tidbits
Ok, here is what's been going on:
Christmas is FINALLY over, yay! I am so glad and I don't mean to sound like Scrooge at all. Mainly because our house is so over run with baby goodies that I will not be sad to see the tree and other decor go in the attic. Hopefully we'll have won the lottery and gotten a bigger house before next year.... HAHAHAHAHA! LOLOLOLOL! Christmas was a blast as always! Camden's first Christmas didn't disappoint, however I forgot to get him a Baby's 1st Christmas outfit and a pic of him wearing said non-existent outfit... oh well!
I got an IPHONE! I love it so much! It is the funnest thing to play with although I don't know half of the things it is capable of. But give me time! I never want to own another phone. It is SO COOL!
Jon and I are discussing putting our house on the market. Yes, the real estate market isn't great now. But, with prayer, faith, and much intense discussion we feel like if it's the right thing to do we'll know. Also, if it sells quickly that will be a determining factor as well. We aren't 100% sure where we would go but have discussed Grand Prairie near Joe Pool Lake. Personally I would miss my friends over here terribly and our pool and stuff but we need more living space and less yard.
Camden weighs 16 POUNDS! He is getting so big. He is giggling and kicking and is just so full of personality. I just love him to bits. He put on quite a show for family over the holiday and was passed from person to person and boy did he ever ham it up! He has been drooling and chewing like crazy. I think he may be in the beginning stages of teething. Certainly his boobie-biting has been an indicator. Santa brought him some baby cereal and 1st foods, so after his 4 month check up in a few weeks he may be starting solids!
Ok, here's a biggie: what do those of you who live near family do to divide your time with family evenly over the holidays? Jon and I had a pretty heated argument about this over Christmas. Yes, bad timing I know... I absolutely LOVE both of our families to pieces but it seems as if I don't ever get to see enough of them on holidays. We are either at our own house or on the road. What to do? There are only so many days... advice/opinions please!
Chandler took his SATs the other day and scored 1800 out of 2400. I was hoping for a perfect score :) to help him get into a good school or the very least a decent scholarship. I am super proud of him no matter what! He is more than likely gonna retake it, simply to see if he can get a higher score and because when he took it the first time he had 4 hours of sleep, no breakfast and he left his calculator at home.
And, last but CERTAINLY not least: both of Jon's grandmothers passed away within 13 days of each other. So super sad and at Christmas too. His maternal grandmother, Mabel, was in her mid nineties and it was expected that she wouldn't make it til Christmas. But, it was very hard regardless. She was soooo sweet and I loved her so much. Just a sweet kind little lady with a great spirit about her. I will miss her so much. His other grandma, Cecilia, was his stepdad's (from age 5 to 25) mom and she was a feisty redhead like me, so naturally we hit it off from the first time I met her. Her passing was VERY unexpected and hit an already grieving family hard. I am so sorry to all family on hubby's side for such a devastating loss during Christmas. These two neat ladies will be dearly missed. As soon as I can get my scanner working I hope to load some pics of Mabel and Cecilia on here.
And, on that note I am gonna finish my chores and dinner. I hope everyone had an awesome Christmas and I am wishing all of y'all a healthy, prosperous, Happy New Year! Can't wait to hear those resolutions!
Christmas is FINALLY over, yay! I am so glad and I don't mean to sound like Scrooge at all. Mainly because our house is so over run with baby goodies that I will not be sad to see the tree and other decor go in the attic. Hopefully we'll have won the lottery and gotten a bigger house before next year.... HAHAHAHAHA! LOLOLOLOL! Christmas was a blast as always! Camden's first Christmas didn't disappoint, however I forgot to get him a Baby's 1st Christmas outfit and a pic of him wearing said non-existent outfit... oh well!
I got an IPHONE! I love it so much! It is the funnest thing to play with although I don't know half of the things it is capable of. But give me time! I never want to own another phone. It is SO COOL!
Jon and I are discussing putting our house on the market. Yes, the real estate market isn't great now. But, with prayer, faith, and much intense discussion we feel like if it's the right thing to do we'll know. Also, if it sells quickly that will be a determining factor as well. We aren't 100% sure where we would go but have discussed Grand Prairie near Joe Pool Lake. Personally I would miss my friends over here terribly and our pool and stuff but we need more living space and less yard.
Camden weighs 16 POUNDS! He is getting so big. He is giggling and kicking and is just so full of personality. I just love him to bits. He put on quite a show for family over the holiday and was passed from person to person and boy did he ever ham it up! He has been drooling and chewing like crazy. I think he may be in the beginning stages of teething. Certainly his boobie-biting has been an indicator. Santa brought him some baby cereal and 1st foods, so after his 4 month check up in a few weeks he may be starting solids!
Ok, here's a biggie: what do those of you who live near family do to divide your time with family evenly over the holidays? Jon and I had a pretty heated argument about this over Christmas. Yes, bad timing I know... I absolutely LOVE both of our families to pieces but it seems as if I don't ever get to see enough of them on holidays. We are either at our own house or on the road. What to do? There are only so many days... advice/opinions please!
Chandler took his SATs the other day and scored 1800 out of 2400. I was hoping for a perfect score :) to help him get into a good school or the very least a decent scholarship. I am super proud of him no matter what! He is more than likely gonna retake it, simply to see if he can get a higher score and because when he took it the first time he had 4 hours of sleep, no breakfast and he left his calculator at home.
And, last but CERTAINLY not least: both of Jon's grandmothers passed away within 13 days of each other. So super sad and at Christmas too. His maternal grandmother, Mabel, was in her mid nineties and it was expected that she wouldn't make it til Christmas. But, it was very hard regardless. She was soooo sweet and I loved her so much. Just a sweet kind little lady with a great spirit about her. I will miss her so much. His other grandma, Cecilia, was his stepdad's (from age 5 to 25) mom and she was a feisty redhead like me, so naturally we hit it off from the first time I met her. Her passing was VERY unexpected and hit an already grieving family hard. I am so sorry to all family on hubby's side for such a devastating loss during Christmas. These two neat ladies will be dearly missed. As soon as I can get my scanner working I hope to load some pics of Mabel and Cecilia on here.
And, on that note I am gonna finish my chores and dinner. I hope everyone had an awesome Christmas and I am wishing all of y'all a healthy, prosperous, Happy New Year! Can't wait to hear those resolutions!
Friday, December 25, 2009
Dear Santa,
Ok, Santa so I realize that my letter is really late this year. As a matter of fact you may be down the street for all I know... but, I am writing you anyway! I think I have been an ok girl this year, maybe I'm on the "Between Naughty and Nice List"? For sure I have held my tongue MANY times and I always let my husband eat and shower before me even when I'm starving and stinky and Camden is crying. I have also kept my road rage in check. Those are good things right? Not to mention I have kept breastfeeding Camden even though one of my nipples is permanently deformed. There are so many good things I could mention, but since you know EVERYTHING I will save myself the trouble. I am not gonna ask for much, Former Girl Scout's Honor. And really since I got a new Iphone(!!!) I really don't need alot.
So without further delay I would like:
A ginormous bottle of Nair and the courage to actually use it. I haven't been able to shave much lately and I am afraid I am gonna tear my sheets or hurt someone with all of the stubble.
The little Asian man down at the pedicure place to rub my feet every night. My bunions have been killing me lately and Jon isn't as good at foot rubs as the little dude down at the nail salon.
Larger towels. I managed to flash the Direct TV guy yesterday. I screamed. He stared. Not pretty. I am surprised he didn't run away. The least he could have done was offer me a free movie or something.
A pair of contact lenses that can resist sliding down the drain. Or maybe a pair a day for the entire year. Maybe if they hadn't slid down the drain yesterday I would have seen the satellite man before I walked past him naked.
Cheesecake in all flavors from the Cheesecake Factory. I am trying to make my butt look more shapely and I am thinking cheesecake might help.
A giant bib. Camden spits up ALOT and every single time I am without protection, he gets me. He is super fast and I am never ready it seems... and I get barfed on alot. A bib would be great!
A better alarm clock. We oversleep frequently and I am tired of rushing every single morning. Not fun.
For Hayden to be more adventurous in the food department. The kid has eaten the same 15 foods for years and I am sick of them, surely he is too...
For Chloe to stop missing the bus. She misses it about 3 days per week. So. Freaking. Annoying. Especially since Hunter goes to the same school as her and he manages to catch the bus. If I get the above mentioned alarm clock that might help a bunch.
I would also really like it alot if Chandler got a JOB. He really needs a job. The kid will be 18 in 3 short months! Preferably not at a food place but instead a place where he can get a discount (Target!).
For Hunter to cut his dang hair! He reminds me of Shaggy or Johnny Depp's portrayal of Willy Wonka. Johnny is a dollface but his Willy Wonka hairdo is fugly. Bobs aren't cute on boys and the last chick who cut Hunter's hair messed it up bad....
Anway, I think that's about it. If you could fulfill all of my Christmas wishes that would be groovy. If not I'll be ok. Really I have lived with/without the stuff I have asked for and I am ok. And, I have an Iphone so I'll survive!
**Merry Christmas Everyone!
So without further delay I would like:
A ginormous bottle of Nair and the courage to actually use it. I haven't been able to shave much lately and I am afraid I am gonna tear my sheets or hurt someone with all of the stubble.
The little Asian man down at the pedicure place to rub my feet every night. My bunions have been killing me lately and Jon isn't as good at foot rubs as the little dude down at the nail salon.
Larger towels. I managed to flash the Direct TV guy yesterday. I screamed. He stared. Not pretty. I am surprised he didn't run away. The least he could have done was offer me a free movie or something.
A pair of contact lenses that can resist sliding down the drain. Or maybe a pair a day for the entire year. Maybe if they hadn't slid down the drain yesterday I would have seen the satellite man before I walked past him naked.
Cheesecake in all flavors from the Cheesecake Factory. I am trying to make my butt look more shapely and I am thinking cheesecake might help.
A giant bib. Camden spits up ALOT and every single time I am without protection, he gets me. He is super fast and I am never ready it seems... and I get barfed on alot. A bib would be great!
A better alarm clock. We oversleep frequently and I am tired of rushing every single morning. Not fun.
For Hayden to be more adventurous in the food department. The kid has eaten the same 15 foods for years and I am sick of them, surely he is too...
For Chloe to stop missing the bus. She misses it about 3 days per week. So. Freaking. Annoying. Especially since Hunter goes to the same school as her and he manages to catch the bus. If I get the above mentioned alarm clock that might help a bunch.
I would also really like it alot if Chandler got a JOB. He really needs a job. The kid will be 18 in 3 short months! Preferably not at a food place but instead a place where he can get a discount (Target!).
For Hunter to cut his dang hair! He reminds me of Shaggy or Johnny Depp's portrayal of Willy Wonka. Johnny is a dollface but his Willy Wonka hairdo is fugly. Bobs aren't cute on boys and the last chick who cut Hunter's hair messed it up bad....
Anway, I think that's about it. If you could fulfill all of my Christmas wishes that would be groovy. If not I'll be ok. Really I have lived with/without the stuff I have asked for and I am ok. And, I have an Iphone so I'll survive!
**Merry Christmas Everyone!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Stuffing!
I don't have a ton of time to blog tonight- one reason being that we are all sharing one computer... which is practically a national tragedy. So, I'm "stuffing" everything into one post. We made it to Oklahoma once again this year for the BMX races. The ride was interesting now that we have Camden- he did very well but when he got hungry or bored you knew it! We had to pull over so I could feed him twice, I did try once to lean over and feed him, which worked a little but made my back hurt and frustrated him. What is normally a 5 hour drive if we stop for dinner and gas took 7 hours this year. So far I am having an ok time- but I really miss Chan who stayed back in Texas. I guess because of Camden and my new routine I feel really weird being away from home in a hotel with a baby. Plus, I really wanted to be with as much family as possible this year and have a memorable first Thanksgiving for Camden. Don't get me wrong this is fun and I've enjoyed it the last few years but I think the novelty has worn off, so I am not sure what next year holds.... It is Chloe's first year to race and Hunter has kinda lost interest so I am wishing her, Jon, and Hayden good luck! I will definitely keep everyone posted. So funny- last year, Chloe and I had fun walking around the venue in our new sweaters and scarves just chillin' and people watching. We saw a lady with a newborn and I mentioned to Chloe how crazy that woman was to have a new baby in a dusty arena and to have to bunk in a hotel for 5 days. Gee, what a difference a year makes! Here I am hanging out with Hunter and Camden- people watching, bunking in a hotel but also stopping to rock, nurse and soothe a 10 week old baby while my Chloe girl races. Weirdness...
Anyway- we stopped for Thanksgiving lunch at Ruby Tuesday where I had a traditional turkey dinner and my family ate buffalo wings... dorks! Now, we are hanging in our hotel room watching Horton Hears a Who and snacking on junk- squeeze cheese on Ritz, pecan pie and birthday cake. That's right- my Hayden is 8!! Happy Birthday Hayden! Thank goodness we did a party at Trail Dust last weekend or I would have felt that he was cheated on his birthday. But really is he? I mean- road trip, junk food, BMX'ing etc? I'm sure he's having a ball! Anywho, I am off to watch the tube. I hope everyone had an awesome Thanksgiving!
snacks!
Hayden and his mini birthday cake in our hotel
me and Hayden at Traildust last weekend
Hayden and his cake at Traildust
taking a bath in the hotel sink
Thanksgiving outfit
Anyway- we stopped for Thanksgiving lunch at Ruby Tuesday where I had a traditional turkey dinner and my family ate buffalo wings... dorks! Now, we are hanging in our hotel room watching Horton Hears a Who and snacking on junk- squeeze cheese on Ritz, pecan pie and birthday cake. That's right- my Hayden is 8!! Happy Birthday Hayden! Thank goodness we did a party at Trail Dust last weekend or I would have felt that he was cheated on his birthday. But really is he? I mean- road trip, junk food, BMX'ing etc? I'm sure he's having a ball! Anywho, I am off to watch the tube. I hope everyone had an awesome Thanksgiving!
snacks!
Hayden and his mini birthday cake in our hotel
me and Hayden at Traildust last weekend
Hayden and his cake at Traildust
taking a bath in the hotel sink
Thanksgiving outfit
Saturday, November 14, 2009
A name and a blessing
Last Sunday was Camden's blessing. I would have done it MUCH sooner but I've been so busy, imagine that! It turned out nice. Of course he fussed a bit during and we almost didn't make it on time. It is hard to get 7 people out the door by 8:30!! Of course I blubbered like a baby myself during the whole service and especially during the blessing. Afterwards we went to a local park so the kids could play and I had brought muffins, donuts, juices, milk, water etc. It was fun to chat and eat and be with family. The only downfall was the morning was cold and windy, but we still had a nice morning together as a family. I am so very blessed to have such a great family and am so thankful for Cam and that Heavenly Father sent such a sweet Spirit to us. What a great day! And, thanks to everyone for coming and participating and to Lois for snapping some pics for us. We love y'all!
Some of the highlights of Camden's blessing:
* you are blessed with a positive attitude and an obedient spirit
* you are blessed to be born into a loving family with older siblings who will help you
* you will be a blessing and a light to your parents as they raise you in wisdom
* you will have a blessing of education both in public school and throughout life
* you have the blessing that one day you will be able to support a family
* you are blessed with strength, health, and happiness
* you are blessed once again to be a great support to your family
Some of the highlights of Camden's blessing:
* you are blessed with a positive attitude and an obedient spirit
* you are blessed to be born into a loving family with older siblings who will help you
* you will be a blessing and a light to your parents as they raise you in wisdom
* you will have a blessing of education both in public school and throughout life
* you have the blessing that one day you will be able to support a family
* you are blessed with strength, health, and happiness
* you are blessed once again to be a great support to your family
Monday, October 26, 2009
Family Update
It has been way too long since I blogged about me, Jon, and my big kids, oops! So, I figured it was time. And, you know I'm gonna talk about Cam too, can't leave him out! Here goes:
Me!
I am slowly but surely figuring out how to juggle me, marriage, 4 big kids, 1 little kid and a whole lotta etcetera. For sure getting a good nights sleep and the SUN coming out helps as does getting out. I have been very reluctant to get the baby out but the last 10 days I have gone to lunch (thanks Barb), 2 birthday parties and a trunk or treat. Being able to fit into my "skinnier" jeans, put on makeup and socialize has helped my mood tremendously. I feel like I whine alot and I apologize but I am still in shock! I had gone so many years set in my ways and used to the dynamics of our family of 6 that is has been an adjustment. But I am managing. I have had to laugh instead of cry, leave stuff undone and just relax. Life is too short and precious to make mountains out of molehills. I am blessed beyond measure and I am so thankful for that.
Jon!
Jon is picking up lots of slack for me I guess you could say. He is doing lots of errands and grocery shopping, things I would normally do. He lets me out here and there (that sounds bad) to get a pedicure or piddle around Target but it's stressful for him since Cam is a titty baby and screams the whole time I'm gone. I was able to get 4 bottles of breastmilk pumped and frozen for emergencies only, but Jon already used them up... for the baby. I appreciate him way more than I say and he is a great husband and father. It is pretty cool to be able to see the love he has for me and the kids just by the way he looks at us. I know that he is stressed and worries about supporting us, but he doesn't let it show. He is pretty cool, I think I'll keep him.
Chan
Oh Chan Man. What can I say? He is my big teddy bear. Boy is he ever laid back though. I won't say lazy but... He is STILL undecided about college and will more than likely get his feet wet in the adult world by attending a local college for a 2 year degree first. I am not sure if he wants to move out as soon as he graduates or not, I refuse to have that conversation. The thought of my first baby birdy leaving the nest is not a topic I wish to discuss. He did have two more medical mishaps since I last blogged- a dislocated elbow and a sprained MCL. Which means he got to play a whopping TWO football games his Senior year of high school. I know he is bummed but I am hoping he can focus that energy on getting super good grades instead. We'll see!
Hunter
Hunter is my other teddy bear. He is a cool kid and I have really enjoyed chatting with him lately. He and I have gone on a few errands together and found ourselves home alone a couple of times and have had the chance to catch up which has been great. He is growing up right before my eyes, as a matter of fact he is taller than me now! He is taking a hiatus from BMX and is getting interested in football again. Too bad the season is almost over... He had a small glitch for awhile in the form of X-Box Live, which he wanted to play all the time and it was affecting his moods and whatnot so we had a long talk and I have nipped that problem in the bud. I can't believe he is gonna be in high school next year! Holy Cow!
Chloe
Oh my pretty girl! She is growing up way too fast. I look back at photos of her from a year ago and can't believe my eyes! She is soo beautiful! And, she is in love with her baby brother. She was super bummed when she found out he was a HE and it took her a few days to warm up to him but now- she is mommy #2 around here. She changes diapers like a champ, talks to him, makes little videos of him on her camera and generally is a huge help. She has been honing her gymnastics skills like you would not believe. She was on a competitive team when she was 5 but got burned out really quick from the constant practices but thankfully she was able to stay strong. She has now taught herself how to do a standing backtuck and has almost perfected her aerial. She has also been hanging out with friends at their houses and has even gone to the mall and a parade without her mommy. She has anxiety and would normally never go anywhere without me or Jon. She is changing and growing so much. I am so proud of her.
Hayden
He is my little buddy. We have always been pretty close since he was born. I quit my job to stay home with him almost 8 years ago and I have enjoyed every minute. He was bumped from being Mommy's Littlest Boy when Camden was born and I think he is handling it ok. There are moments when I can tell he is frustrated at me and I feel so bad. He has even told me that I have been mean to him since the baby came and that makes me feel an inch tall. I have tried to be more patient and loving towards him, the last thing I want is for him to feel as if he was replaced. In addition to his mean mommy our neighbors just moved and they had twin 7 year old girls that he played with every day, I know he is gonna miss them BAD. Poor baby. He is so sweet and has a huge heart and I am so glad he is mine. I am gonna try super hard to make his birthday next month extra special.
Camden
Oh the baby boy! He is changing soo much it's nuts! He is smiling more and more and I am pretty sure he has a little dimple. He is rolling over from front to back which is way too soon. He has had a few rough nights where he stayed up all night long, that was not fun at all! He has yet to sleep a full night in his crib preferring instead to be tucked up next to me with a boob for a pillow. I am still seeing red in his hair which is just odd. None of my kids have red hair or dimples.... I am so glad he is here. He makes our whole family smile!
And that's it for now. I am trying to limit my time on the computer, so I won't be blogging as much. Not that I had been anyway! I feel better when I accomplish more around the house and one nursing session with the laptop open can last way too long. Keep reading though. And I might add new pics eventually....
Me!
I am slowly but surely figuring out how to juggle me, marriage, 4 big kids, 1 little kid and a whole lotta etcetera. For sure getting a good nights sleep and the SUN coming out helps as does getting out. I have been very reluctant to get the baby out but the last 10 days I have gone to lunch (thanks Barb), 2 birthday parties and a trunk or treat. Being able to fit into my "skinnier" jeans, put on makeup and socialize has helped my mood tremendously. I feel like I whine alot and I apologize but I am still in shock! I had gone so many years set in my ways and used to the dynamics of our family of 6 that is has been an adjustment. But I am managing. I have had to laugh instead of cry, leave stuff undone and just relax. Life is too short and precious to make mountains out of molehills. I am blessed beyond measure and I am so thankful for that.
Jon!
Jon is picking up lots of slack for me I guess you could say. He is doing lots of errands and grocery shopping, things I would normally do. He lets me out here and there (that sounds bad) to get a pedicure or piddle around Target but it's stressful for him since Cam is a titty baby and screams the whole time I'm gone. I was able to get 4 bottles of breastmilk pumped and frozen for emergencies only, but Jon already used them up... for the baby. I appreciate him way more than I say and he is a great husband and father. It is pretty cool to be able to see the love he has for me and the kids just by the way he looks at us. I know that he is stressed and worries about supporting us, but he doesn't let it show. He is pretty cool, I think I'll keep him.
Chan
Oh Chan Man. What can I say? He is my big teddy bear. Boy is he ever laid back though. I won't say lazy but... He is STILL undecided about college and will more than likely get his feet wet in the adult world by attending a local college for a 2 year degree first. I am not sure if he wants to move out as soon as he graduates or not, I refuse to have that conversation. The thought of my first baby birdy leaving the nest is not a topic I wish to discuss. He did have two more medical mishaps since I last blogged- a dislocated elbow and a sprained MCL. Which means he got to play a whopping TWO football games his Senior year of high school. I know he is bummed but I am hoping he can focus that energy on getting super good grades instead. We'll see!
Hunter
Hunter is my other teddy bear. He is a cool kid and I have really enjoyed chatting with him lately. He and I have gone on a few errands together and found ourselves home alone a couple of times and have had the chance to catch up which has been great. He is growing up right before my eyes, as a matter of fact he is taller than me now! He is taking a hiatus from BMX and is getting interested in football again. Too bad the season is almost over... He had a small glitch for awhile in the form of X-Box Live, which he wanted to play all the time and it was affecting his moods and whatnot so we had a long talk and I have nipped that problem in the bud. I can't believe he is gonna be in high school next year! Holy Cow!
Chloe
Oh my pretty girl! She is growing up way too fast. I look back at photos of her from a year ago and can't believe my eyes! She is soo beautiful! And, she is in love with her baby brother. She was super bummed when she found out he was a HE and it took her a few days to warm up to him but now- she is mommy #2 around here. She changes diapers like a champ, talks to him, makes little videos of him on her camera and generally is a huge help. She has been honing her gymnastics skills like you would not believe. She was on a competitive team when she was 5 but got burned out really quick from the constant practices but thankfully she was able to stay strong. She has now taught herself how to do a standing backtuck and has almost perfected her aerial. She has also been hanging out with friends at their houses and has even gone to the mall and a parade without her mommy. She has anxiety and would normally never go anywhere without me or Jon. She is changing and growing so much. I am so proud of her.
Hayden
He is my little buddy. We have always been pretty close since he was born. I quit my job to stay home with him almost 8 years ago and I have enjoyed every minute. He was bumped from being Mommy's Littlest Boy when Camden was born and I think he is handling it ok. There are moments when I can tell he is frustrated at me and I feel so bad. He has even told me that I have been mean to him since the baby came and that makes me feel an inch tall. I have tried to be more patient and loving towards him, the last thing I want is for him to feel as if he was replaced. In addition to his mean mommy our neighbors just moved and they had twin 7 year old girls that he played with every day, I know he is gonna miss them BAD. Poor baby. He is so sweet and has a huge heart and I am so glad he is mine. I am gonna try super hard to make his birthday next month extra special.
Camden
Oh the baby boy! He is changing soo much it's nuts! He is smiling more and more and I am pretty sure he has a little dimple. He is rolling over from front to back which is way too soon. He has had a few rough nights where he stayed up all night long, that was not fun at all! He has yet to sleep a full night in his crib preferring instead to be tucked up next to me with a boob for a pillow. I am still seeing red in his hair which is just odd. None of my kids have red hair or dimples.... I am so glad he is here. He makes our whole family smile!
And that's it for now. I am trying to limit my time on the computer, so I won't be blogging as much. Not that I had been anyway! I feel better when I accomplish more around the house and one nursing session with the laptop open can last way too long. Keep reading though. And I might add new pics eventually....
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Soul Searching
I am not gonna say I'm overwhelmed, even though I'm overwhelmed. And, I figured out why. It's not because I had my 5th child, it's because I don't manage my time well and I don't prioritize. Really what's important day to day? Facebook? I don't think so. Six hour naps? Nope. Watching recorded shows that aren't erased until I erase them? No siree. Basically unless I have somewhere to go I spend my days napping, online or watching the telly, while I nurse the baby. Now that Piggy Flu is rampant and I have a newborn who isn't leaving the house until the pandemic is over, I am in my pj's ALL DAY and I am starting to feel like a LOSER. Yes, there are days when a nap is a necessity like when Cam is up til 4 am. However, I don't need one everyday and I don't need to sleep more than a couple of hours. Then there's the computer. I am on it ALOT. Checking my blog and Facebook and constantly looking at the same lame crap. Other than fun little comments on Facebook and reading blogs, I am wasting a ton of time online. I could look at all my friends blogs and FB in less than 15 minutes a day. When what I am doing is staying on for hours at a time. Have I read my scriptures? No. Have I exercised? No. Is my housework and laundry done? No. Do I feel like I am getting stuck in a rut of feeling down and being lazy? Yes. By the time I get off the computer each day my kids are walking in the door and I am frantically trying to shower and clean and I am usually cranky because I am mad at myself. I deserve better and so do my children. I am not judging those of you who spend time on your computers or lounge in your pj's. I am just saying that for me life could be more than I am making of it. Yes, it's fun to talk to my friends online, scoping out blogs and read cheesy celebrity gossip. But, I am making a habit of doing that each day and not alot else. I don't think I have an addiction, but I do have a bad habit. And I really really want to try and turn over a new leaf. I want to embrace each day and live it to the fullest. Sure, I need to spend some time each day doing chores and cooking but there are so many more things I could do that I am not doing because there's no time. I waste it sitting on my bum. I would love to go for a walk with Camden in the fresh air. I wouldn't mind reading Hayden a story and holding him til he falls asleep. Or going on a date with my big boys and for ice cream with Chloe. I wanna lay under the stars on a blanket and have hot cocoa with my hubby. I wanna have family game night and family prayer and on and on. I am gonna quote a line in a cheesy Miley Cyrus song- life's what you make it so let's make it right. And, that's exactly what I want to do. So, I may not blog or Facebook as much but I still will some and it may take awhile to break the habit. It will be hard and it will require diligence and prayer. And, my main motivation is my kids and my self worth. I really don't think I want to be remembered by my children as the mommy blogger who chats on FB with her friends. I want to be the fun mom who makes her and her family's happiness Numero Uno. Wish me luck.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
A Happy List: new baby, tired mommy edition
Since I recently squeezed out a baby things are nuts around here. And, if you read my blog on a regular basis you know that and you are probably sick of reading about it. But, who cares. I have a houseful of kids and as much as I love them, they don't give me near as much blog content as Camden. Eventually I'll blog about something else... So, on that note, I am gonna do a list. A list of things that make the crying (mine and his) and utter chaos and exhaustion almost forgettable. These things make me happy and they pretty much rock!
1. Being able to sleep on my tummy. I waited months to do this again and wouldn't you know my baby will only sleep good during the day, in some one's arms, or with a tit in his mouth. Which means I rarely get to sleep on my tummy except when I nap with him during the day. And when I do, I sleep like a freaking petrified log and it feels amazing!
2. When I actually get to eat with both hands and while my food is still warm. I have been standing up to eat while nursing the babe at the same time for 3 weeks and my food is ALWAYS cold. And, it just so happens that the moment I sit down with a plate or bowl of food he wakes up. I am thinking maybe I should follow my dog's lead and forget utensils and limbs altogether!
3. Watching my older children love on and care for their baby brother. They love to hold him and kiss him. Hunter wants to hold him all the time and Chloe is proving to be a master diaper changer and baby soother. Chandler and Hayden just look at him ALOT. They love to stare at him and caress his cheeks. I seriously have to hold back the tears. I am SO in LOVE with my children.
4. A shower. I am a bath girl all the way and the exact moment he turns 6 weeks old I am taking a bath- with scalding hot water, a candy bar, an ice cold glass of something yummy, and a trashy magazine like People. And, yes I will lock the door to the bedroom and the bathroom. But, back to showers. When you have on the same pj's as the day before and you smell like eau de spit up, a shower feels like pure bliss.
5. Being allowed, no make that forced to eat 500 extra calories per day because I am nursing. Some days I get my extra calories in the form of something healthy like an apple with peanut butter and other days it's a Snickers bar. I do feel a bit guilty, a little tiny bit. But, I also know that breast milk is always uber healthy and I think that Cam secretly likes Snicker flavored milk anyway...
6. Dressing Camden in all his CUTE clothes. I bought and was given (both new and hand me down) some of the most adorable clothes for him ever. I try and change him twice a day. What? He likes it... It does bum me out a little that no one gets to see him in them but oh well, there's always pictures. He likes photo shoots at home too.
7. Staring at and touching my baby. I could do it all day long. He has this one little spot on his ear that's just one random tuft of hair and I love to poke at it. And his feet are like rose petals and his cheeks and head are like warm velvet. And I could go on and on. Babies are like a drug. I swear as much as I think Michelle Duggar has like way too many kids, I think I can figure out why. Oh man, I wanna go hold him NOW!
8. Giving him his daily bath. As soon as the nastiness that was his umbilical cord fell off I filled his baby tub with warm water and in he went. And, he LOVED it. Still does. I imagine he relates it to being in my tummy in a bag full of warm amniotic fluid. He is just so relaxed when he's in the tub you can see it in his little face. That is one area where he takes after his mommy- baths are awesome. And, he smells amazing afterwards! Goodbye curdled milk, hello Johnson and Johnson!
9. Nursing Cam. It is seriously an amazing feeling to be able to feed your baby with milk that your body makes for them especially. And to see them get fat and healthy from it is even more awesome. Having a child really is a miracle and one of the most beautiful things ever. No offense to those of you who formula feed, just because it's not something I have ever done. But really, breastfeeding your baby is such a special experience. Try it, you'll thank me later.
10. Having my whole family home with me on the weekends. We usually never cook dinner (amen to take out) and we ALWAYS have dessert. We could be watching cheesy TV while I feed the baby or someone is on the computer and someone else is reading a book. But, we are together in our cozy house just here, just being us. And it's awesome. Once again- I am so in LOVE with my family. And, I am BLESSED beyond measure.
That's it for now. Right now I am just feeling all warm and cozy. So, I am gonna go kiss all my kiddos and straighten out their covers while I smooth the hair across their foreheads. Then I am gonna wake up my baby and rub his little feet while I give him a midnight snack. After which I will kiss my hubby goodnight and then say a prayer thanking Heavenly Father for all of my wonderful amazing blessings. The end.
1. Being able to sleep on my tummy. I waited months to do this again and wouldn't you know my baby will only sleep good during the day, in some one's arms, or with a tit in his mouth. Which means I rarely get to sleep on my tummy except when I nap with him during the day. And when I do, I sleep like a freaking petrified log and it feels amazing!
2. When I actually get to eat with both hands and while my food is still warm. I have been standing up to eat while nursing the babe at the same time for 3 weeks and my food is ALWAYS cold. And, it just so happens that the moment I sit down with a plate or bowl of food he wakes up. I am thinking maybe I should follow my dog's lead and forget utensils and limbs altogether!
3. Watching my older children love on and care for their baby brother. They love to hold him and kiss him. Hunter wants to hold him all the time and Chloe is proving to be a master diaper changer and baby soother. Chandler and Hayden just look at him ALOT. They love to stare at him and caress his cheeks. I seriously have to hold back the tears. I am SO in LOVE with my children.
4. A shower. I am a bath girl all the way and the exact moment he turns 6 weeks old I am taking a bath- with scalding hot water, a candy bar, an ice cold glass of something yummy, and a trashy magazine like People. And, yes I will lock the door to the bedroom and the bathroom. But, back to showers. When you have on the same pj's as the day before and you smell like eau de spit up, a shower feels like pure bliss.
5. Being allowed, no make that forced to eat 500 extra calories per day because I am nursing. Some days I get my extra calories in the form of something healthy like an apple with peanut butter and other days it's a Snickers bar. I do feel a bit guilty, a little tiny bit. But, I also know that breast milk is always uber healthy and I think that Cam secretly likes Snicker flavored milk anyway...
6. Dressing Camden in all his CUTE clothes. I bought and was given (both new and hand me down) some of the most adorable clothes for him ever. I try and change him twice a day. What? He likes it... It does bum me out a little that no one gets to see him in them but oh well, there's always pictures. He likes photo shoots at home too.
7. Staring at and touching my baby. I could do it all day long. He has this one little spot on his ear that's just one random tuft of hair and I love to poke at it. And his feet are like rose petals and his cheeks and head are like warm velvet. And I could go on and on. Babies are like a drug. I swear as much as I think Michelle Duggar has like way too many kids, I think I can figure out why. Oh man, I wanna go hold him NOW!
8. Giving him his daily bath. As soon as the nastiness that was his umbilical cord fell off I filled his baby tub with warm water and in he went. And, he LOVED it. Still does. I imagine he relates it to being in my tummy in a bag full of warm amniotic fluid. He is just so relaxed when he's in the tub you can see it in his little face. That is one area where he takes after his mommy- baths are awesome. And, he smells amazing afterwards! Goodbye curdled milk, hello Johnson and Johnson!
9. Nursing Cam. It is seriously an amazing feeling to be able to feed your baby with milk that your body makes for them especially. And to see them get fat and healthy from it is even more awesome. Having a child really is a miracle and one of the most beautiful things ever. No offense to those of you who formula feed, just because it's not something I have ever done. But really, breastfeeding your baby is such a special experience. Try it, you'll thank me later.
10. Having my whole family home with me on the weekends. We usually never cook dinner (amen to take out) and we ALWAYS have dessert. We could be watching cheesy TV while I feed the baby or someone is on the computer and someone else is reading a book. But, we are together in our cozy house just here, just being us. And it's awesome. Once again- I am so in LOVE with my family. And, I am BLESSED beyond measure.
That's it for now. Right now I am just feeling all warm and cozy. So, I am gonna go kiss all my kiddos and straighten out their covers while I smooth the hair across their foreheads. Then I am gonna wake up my baby and rub his little feet while I give him a midnight snack. After which I will kiss my hubby goodnight and then say a prayer thanking Heavenly Father for all of my wonderful amazing blessings. The end.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
And she's overwhelmed.... week 2 as a family of 7
Wow! Overwhelmed is a massive understatement.... It has been interesting around here. Let's just say my recovery period officially ended Sunday evening. I love my hubby to death, but he ran out of steam around the time the visitors stopped coming in droves. He lasted longer than I thought. He has been getting Hayden from school on his lunch break which is great, and does a random chore here or there- but it's never really enough. Basically things are one step forward two steps back around here. I am constantly nursing, changing diapers, or washing baby clothes. Today alone Camden went through 7 outfits! I am lucky to get a shower and to brush my teeth around 1 each morning. With the big kids, Jon, laundry, dishes, school stuff, my Facebook addiction and the baby- it's the earliest I get a moment to myself. A smart mommy would leave crap undone, but I just can't. One night this past week I got in bed at 1 and Camden woke up at 2 and stayed up til 6.... I was climbing into bed when my kids were having breakfast. Then there's the animals, they are always looking at me with hunger in their eyes. But really- they're fine and besides how am I supposed to nurse a baby when I barely have time to eat? Thank goodness for granola bars and Hot Pockets! And, speaking of food- our dinner fairies stopped bringing food on Sunday. So sad... I think Jon took it harder than anyone. Man, was it ever nice. So far this week we aren't setting the world on fire with our own home cooked meals either. Last night- chili dogs, tonight- Dairy Queen. Seriously I gotta do some intense healthy meal planning since my diet officially restarts Monday. I am only 12 pounds away from my pre-pregnancy weight. You gotta love breastfeeding, I have lost 6 pounds since Sunday! Woo hoo! Anyway... back to my rambling. I am trying my hardest to spread myself out and be Supermom, but it's easier said than done. Don't get me wrong, I am so in love with my family and our beautiful new son. But, I didn't know stress til now! There have been funny moments as well. Like, Cam's insanely loud bowel movements that produce a dime size spot of poop and the random giggles and smiles he is so good at while sleeping. I think my biggest guilt feeling/gripe though is spreading me around so everyone gets attention and in the process I am neglecting Ashley... Which, I guess is a gripe nearly every mom I know also has. So, it has been crazy, fun, intense, exhausting- you name it! Basically, I guess we are trudging along and having a happy chaotic time figuring out our new normal- whatever normal is?!
P.S. I also managed to make two homecoming mums this week, with tons of help from my friend Erin. I literally gave up two showers to make those bad boys. You're welcome Chandler and Hunter... I will post pics soon.
P.S. I also managed to make two homecoming mums this week, with tons of help from my friend Erin. I literally gave up two showers to make those bad boys. You're welcome Chandler and Hunter... I will post pics soon.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Camden is 1 week old!
Oh man, I have been wanting to blog but I am barely keeping my head above water. So, this post will probably be kinda long and hopefully not at all boring....
First things first- yes I am gonna blog about my "birth story" eventually and I have given myself a month to update the blog title and add new photos since we are no longer a family of 6. I just need to search for a header and background I like and also new pics need to be taken. That being said- where do I start?
It has been an amazing, stressful, happy, weepy, blessed first week with a new baby around here. We are sooo in love with Cam and can't get enough. I had an audience (the entire family) for his first big tarry poop and his first sponge bath. The kids are pretty fascinated by their new brother and I probably could have saved a ton of money on baby gear as he's always in someone's arms. Breastfeeding has gone as well as could be expected for someone whose boobs haven't nursed a baby in almost 8 years. Sore and cracked. But, I suffer through and it's getting better. He is getting enough to eat for sure and has already gained 1/4 inch and only lost 1/2 a pound per his first doctor's appointment. So that is great news. I however have been a bit weepy since coming down off a hormone high. I have either been head over heels in love with my family or overwhelmed or tired so I cry here and there. But, I have amazing friends and family who have kept me sane. I do have a bit of cabin fever and the blahs as well, probably from lack of sunshine. I really want to get out but it's too soon and I am TERRIFIED of swine flu, colds, etc. So, I am staying put and trying to keep my chin up. A shower does wonders as does brushing my teeth. We have also been spoiled rotten by our friends who have kept us fed. We have had casseroles, lasagna, spaghetti, tacos, and DESSERTS! It's amazing! We have saved a ton of time and $$ which are in short supply with such a big family. I get teary eyed just thinking of how blessed we are. Really, who knew people really liked us and wanted to help? I am stunned. So far each day is pretty routine- Jon and the kids go off to work and school and the baby and I go back to bed! We spend our days nursing, diapering, resting, and I watch TV and do minor chores here and there. I spend a huge portion of each day kissing Camden and rubbing his velvety head and soft feet. I love the way he smells and my most favorite of all is how he quiets down at the sound of my voice and the way he "roots" for a nipple on my face. He is so sweet and of course- PERFECT! I seriously can't believe having another baby was a question all these years. Yes, it is hard having 5 kids and juggling all that comes with our life but when I look at their faces it is so worth it!
sleeping, look at those hands...
sleeping some more
wide awake at bedtime
same as above, and yes he sleeps with us
he slid way down in his boppy
first bath
First things first- yes I am gonna blog about my "birth story" eventually and I have given myself a month to update the blog title and add new photos since we are no longer a family of 6. I just need to search for a header and background I like and also new pics need to be taken. That being said- where do I start?
It has been an amazing, stressful, happy, weepy, blessed first week with a new baby around here. We are sooo in love with Cam and can't get enough. I had an audience (the entire family) for his first big tarry poop and his first sponge bath. The kids are pretty fascinated by their new brother and I probably could have saved a ton of money on baby gear as he's always in someone's arms. Breastfeeding has gone as well as could be expected for someone whose boobs haven't nursed a baby in almost 8 years. Sore and cracked. But, I suffer through and it's getting better. He is getting enough to eat for sure and has already gained 1/4 inch and only lost 1/2 a pound per his first doctor's appointment. So that is great news. I however have been a bit weepy since coming down off a hormone high. I have either been head over heels in love with my family or overwhelmed or tired so I cry here and there. But, I have amazing friends and family who have kept me sane. I do have a bit of cabin fever and the blahs as well, probably from lack of sunshine. I really want to get out but it's too soon and I am TERRIFIED of swine flu, colds, etc. So, I am staying put and trying to keep my chin up. A shower does wonders as does brushing my teeth. We have also been spoiled rotten by our friends who have kept us fed. We have had casseroles, lasagna, spaghetti, tacos, and DESSERTS! It's amazing! We have saved a ton of time and $$ which are in short supply with such a big family. I get teary eyed just thinking of how blessed we are. Really, who knew people really liked us and wanted to help? I am stunned. So far each day is pretty routine- Jon and the kids go off to work and school and the baby and I go back to bed! We spend our days nursing, diapering, resting, and I watch TV and do minor chores here and there. I spend a huge portion of each day kissing Camden and rubbing his velvety head and soft feet. I love the way he smells and my most favorite of all is how he quiets down at the sound of my voice and the way he "roots" for a nipple on my face. He is so sweet and of course- PERFECT! I seriously can't believe having another baby was a question all these years. Yes, it is hard having 5 kids and juggling all that comes with our life but when I look at their faces it is so worth it!
sleeping, look at those hands...
sleeping some more
wide awake at bedtime
same as above, and yes he sleeps with us
he slid way down in his boppy
first bath
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)