Happy New Year EVERYBODY!!!!
Moriah and I are the only 2 in this house that stayed up to see the New Year come in! Hope you had a wonderful 2006 and hope that you all have a wonderful 2007.
Love you all!
Moriah and Tamara
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Friday, December 08, 2006
Scared Straight--Ghetto Style!
John decided to go hunting early one morning and took a half day off. I told him he was killing me but did he listen? Of course, not!!!
Moriah is a creature of habit. We must adhere to a strict schedule and not deviate from said schedule. The Morning Ritual at our house includes Daddy. When Daddy is not here, the schedule goes a wry.
Moriah, Luke, and I were getting dressed and ready for work and school. We try to let Luke sleep as long as we can but "as long as we can" was not long enough on this morning. Why? Because Daddy wasn't here and the schedule had been deviated from. I was running amuck (this is the only part of the schedule that remained constant). I realized suddenly that we had 5 minutes before we had to leave.
I said, "Moriah, we have to leave in 5 minutes and you haven't put your shoe and socks on or brushed your teeth or hair!" In her new found juvenile delinquency she retorts, "I don't care!" As you can imagine, this went over well.
We made it up to 6 weeks of being grounded before we managed to shut the overdrive down on her mouth. Luke was crying because he must be held every waking moment. Major Problem, we now have 1 minute and counting before we are out the door and the hair and teeth are still not brushed and the shoes and socks are not being worn. So, I said, "Moriah! Go brush your teeth, grab a hairbrush, your shoes, and socks and let's go!"
Moriah begins to cry, "I don't want to be grounded Momma!" She has been grounded (which pretty much means she loses her TV privileges) so much lately for various offenses that if she were a house she would have the strongest foundation in the neighborhood. My reply to her cry was, "I don't want a little girl who backtalks and is disrespectful. How can we both get what we want Moriah?" Hmmmmmm! Novel concept. "I don't know," she replies. I told her to think about it and we would talk more when we got to school.
I explained to her that because of our delay that I had to take her to work with me because I had already been late once and as a result the babysitter's husband was late for work (that is a story that is much like where Cain's wife came from....you don't really need to know to grasp the concept of the story.). One important thing you do need to know is that Moriah and I had previously discussed where I work and why some kids come to this place. So, she already knew that where Mom works is not a pleasant place.
We drive through Mineral Springs and slap dab in front of me at the intersection is the clock at the bank which reads, "7:45 *flash* 19" YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS!!! I did not just 6 minutes prior to this time make my child run outside into 19 degree weather with no shoes and socks on. Looks like that Mother of the Year plaque will have to wait another year!!!! We arrive in Tollette at the ILC and the babysitter isn't there yet and neither are the kids. This is good! Maybe I can get Moriah straightened out and put her on the shuttle bus to go to Mineral Springs.
Mrs. Sherri arrives and picks up Luke. One down, one to go. Uh-oh! Here comes the bus of lovelies that I have to spend the day. I called the elementary school to let them know that I had Moriah and she would be at school as soon as we straightened out a little incident that happened this morning. I got the hairbrush and began to brush Moriah's hair. She told me once again, "I don't want to be grounded." And again, "I don't want a little girl who backtalks and is disrespectful. How can we both get what we want?" And, AGAIN, "I don't know." We went through this cycle several times before the answer became.. "We could both get what we want by me not backtalking and being disrespectful." Ohmigosh! Ding*Ding*Ding*Ding! We have a winner!
I gave her a hug and said "Ok! You are still grounded for the weekend which is 2 days and that's better than 6 weeks right!" We both agreed on that. I explained that I was glad that she understood what she had done but the 2 days was because she had actually done something that needed correcting. I felt so good!!!! Another tragedy had been averted. I went to tell Mr. Lampkins that I was going to run her to school really quickly and would be right back.
As I was walking to the front of the room, a "situation" occurred with one of the kids. Moriah turned and faced the wall and began to cry. The kid that was misbehaving asked if that was my daughter and I answered that it was. He said, "Why is she crying?" I said, "She's scared too death!" He wondered why she was scared and why she was there. I explained, "She is here because she was disrespectful to me this morning much like you are doing right now to Mr. Lampkins with the exception of she isn't use to kids acting like you are!"
Bless her heart! She cried all the way back to school. It's just a 5 mile trip but it seemed like longer today. We got to school. I told Moriah that I was going to go in and "sign you in." I wiped her face off and sent her to class. Her class is right across the hallway from the office. I noticed that she came out of the class and went to the restroom. It wasn't until later that I fully understood why she needed to go wash her face again.
Apparently, when I used the phrase "sign you in" it was misinterpreted. Moriah went back to class and explained that to the substitute teacher for the day that "As we speak, my mom is in the office signing me into ILC because I was disrespectful and talked back to her this morning and that place is horrible!"
Moriah is a creature of habit. We must adhere to a strict schedule and not deviate from said schedule. The Morning Ritual at our house includes Daddy. When Daddy is not here, the schedule goes a wry.
Moriah, Luke, and I were getting dressed and ready for work and school. We try to let Luke sleep as long as we can but "as long as we can" was not long enough on this morning. Why? Because Daddy wasn't here and the schedule had been deviated from. I was running amuck (this is the only part of the schedule that remained constant). I realized suddenly that we had 5 minutes before we had to leave.
I said, "Moriah, we have to leave in 5 minutes and you haven't put your shoe and socks on or brushed your teeth or hair!" In her new found juvenile delinquency she retorts, "I don't care!" As you can imagine, this went over well.
We made it up to 6 weeks of being grounded before we managed to shut the overdrive down on her mouth. Luke was crying because he must be held every waking moment. Major Problem, we now have 1 minute and counting before we are out the door and the hair and teeth are still not brushed and the shoes and socks are not being worn. So, I said, "Moriah! Go brush your teeth, grab a hairbrush, your shoes, and socks and let's go!"
Moriah begins to cry, "I don't want to be grounded Momma!" She has been grounded (which pretty much means she loses her TV privileges) so much lately for various offenses that if she were a house she would have the strongest foundation in the neighborhood. My reply to her cry was, "I don't want a little girl who backtalks and is disrespectful. How can we both get what we want Moriah?" Hmmmmmm! Novel concept. "I don't know," she replies. I told her to think about it and we would talk more when we got to school.
I explained to her that because of our delay that I had to take her to work with me because I had already been late once and as a result the babysitter's husband was late for work (that is a story that is much like where Cain's wife came from....you don't really need to know to grasp the concept of the story.). One important thing you do need to know is that Moriah and I had previously discussed where I work and why some kids come to this place. So, she already knew that where Mom works is not a pleasant place.
We drive through Mineral Springs and slap dab in front of me at the intersection is the clock at the bank which reads, "7:45 *flash* 19" YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS!!! I did not just 6 minutes prior to this time make my child run outside into 19 degree weather with no shoes and socks on. Looks like that Mother of the Year plaque will have to wait another year!!!! We arrive in Tollette at the ILC and the babysitter isn't there yet and neither are the kids. This is good! Maybe I can get Moriah straightened out and put her on the shuttle bus to go to Mineral Springs.
Mrs. Sherri arrives and picks up Luke. One down, one to go. Uh-oh! Here comes the bus of lovelies that I have to spend the day. I called the elementary school to let them know that I had Moriah and she would be at school as soon as we straightened out a little incident that happened this morning. I got the hairbrush and began to brush Moriah's hair. She told me once again, "I don't want to be grounded." And again, "I don't want a little girl who backtalks and is disrespectful. How can we both get what we want?" And, AGAIN, "I don't know." We went through this cycle several times before the answer became.. "We could both get what we want by me not backtalking and being disrespectful." Ohmigosh! Ding*Ding*Ding*Ding! We have a winner!
I gave her a hug and said "Ok! You are still grounded for the weekend which is 2 days and that's better than 6 weeks right!" We both agreed on that. I explained that I was glad that she understood what she had done but the 2 days was because she had actually done something that needed correcting. I felt so good!!!! Another tragedy had been averted. I went to tell Mr. Lampkins that I was going to run her to school really quickly and would be right back.
As I was walking to the front of the room, a "situation" occurred with one of the kids. Moriah turned and faced the wall and began to cry. The kid that was misbehaving asked if that was my daughter and I answered that it was. He said, "Why is she crying?" I said, "She's scared too death!" He wondered why she was scared and why she was there. I explained, "She is here because she was disrespectful to me this morning much like you are doing right now to Mr. Lampkins with the exception of she isn't use to kids acting like you are!"
Bless her heart! She cried all the way back to school. It's just a 5 mile trip but it seemed like longer today. We got to school. I told Moriah that I was going to go in and "sign you in." I wiped her face off and sent her to class. Her class is right across the hallway from the office. I noticed that she came out of the class and went to the restroom. It wasn't until later that I fully understood why she needed to go wash her face again.
Apparently, when I used the phrase "sign you in" it was misinterpreted. Moriah went back to class and explained that to the substitute teacher for the day that "As we speak, my mom is in the office signing me into ILC because I was disrespectful and talked back to her this morning and that place is horrible!"
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
What's so Freaking Funny?
Have you ever had one of those times that was so funny and then again not really?
Moriah got a 10/10 on her reading tests. This is a big deal for us. So, treats were deserved. Moriah decided the proper thing was McDonald's. We loaded up and went to Mickey D's.
Moriah asked me something. I responded. Then, John responded to what I said. We both started laughing. I hadn't finished eating so I had to cover my mouth to keep cheese and meat byproducts from flying all over the place. Then, everything from that moment on, regardless of how ridiculous or unfunny, was hilarious. We couldn't stop laughing. I'm sure it was annoying to everyone in the place. I know it was for Moriah. Don't you just love the thought of embarrassing your kids in public!!!!! Well, except Luke of course, he was laughing right along with us as if to say "Momma, Daddy funny!" I told John, "we are the reason that restaurants panic when a school bus pulls up out front!"
WE mananged to get control of ourselves before Depends became necessary. After we got home, everything was calm until John said something that set me off. It started again!! Moriah just sighed and said, "I'm going to bed!"
Moriah got a 10/10 on her reading tests. This is a big deal for us. So, treats were deserved. Moriah decided the proper thing was McDonald's. We loaded up and went to Mickey D's.
Moriah asked me something. I responded. Then, John responded to what I said. We both started laughing. I hadn't finished eating so I had to cover my mouth to keep cheese and meat byproducts from flying all over the place. Then, everything from that moment on, regardless of how ridiculous or unfunny, was hilarious. We couldn't stop laughing. I'm sure it was annoying to everyone in the place. I know it was for Moriah. Don't you just love the thought of embarrassing your kids in public!!!!! Well, except Luke of course, he was laughing right along with us as if to say "Momma, Daddy funny!" I told John, "we are the reason that restaurants panic when a school bus pulls up out front!"
WE mananged to get control of ourselves before Depends became necessary. After we got home, everything was calm until John said something that set me off. It started again!! Moriah just sighed and said, "I'm going to bed!"
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Long Time no See!
It's been a while since I've reported any stories. Not that there has been a lack of excitement at our house because there is never a dull moment. We've been really busy!!! There's football season, sick Moms and Dads, kids running here and there, I started to work. It's just never ending! Hopefully, things will level off and I can get back to reporting the cuteness that is our children!!!
Sunday, October 08, 2006
The Little Black Box!
Most of my blog entries are stories about the kids--things they have done or said that are funny or entertaining. This one is none of that.
The other day I was driving home from Waldron with the kids in the back seat. Moriah was watching a movie (probably Narnia); Luke was asleep or basking in the cuteness that is he. I was in the front (which is good since I was driving). Everything was just beautiful. The grass was green, the trees as well, the sky was blue, and I'm sure the birds were singing. A deer trotted across the road in front of me (in case you didn't know we live in Deer Central; it isn't uncommon to see 20 or more deer from where we turn off at Wickes on 71 to Nashville).
It is so common in fact that I try not to look for them anymore. I figure that if one runs out in front of me and I don't see it; then, I won't swerve. If I swerve, I might miss it but flip the car. This one particular deer, while it posed no danger to us, got me to thinking about something.
What if our vehicles were equipped with the Little Black Boxes that are in airplanes. Then, if an animal ran out in front of us and caused us to wreck, we would have an audio account of what was going on in the car at the time of the accident. Or, what if our heads were equipped with just such a box? What were our thoughts right at the very moment the accident happened? Would we be having pleasant thoughts? WOuld we be focused on Godly things or worldly things? This is more of a "Rambling of a Wandering Mind" episode than anything!! Besides, newer vehicles are already equipped with such a device...........it's called ONSTAR!!!
The other day I was driving home from Waldron with the kids in the back seat. Moriah was watching a movie (probably Narnia); Luke was asleep or basking in the cuteness that is he. I was in the front (which is good since I was driving). Everything was just beautiful. The grass was green, the trees as well, the sky was blue, and I'm sure the birds were singing. A deer trotted across the road in front of me (in case you didn't know we live in Deer Central; it isn't uncommon to see 20 or more deer from where we turn off at Wickes on 71 to Nashville).
It is so common in fact that I try not to look for them anymore. I figure that if one runs out in front of me and I don't see it; then, I won't swerve. If I swerve, I might miss it but flip the car. This one particular deer, while it posed no danger to us, got me to thinking about something.
What if our vehicles were equipped with the Little Black Boxes that are in airplanes. Then, if an animal ran out in front of us and caused us to wreck, we would have an audio account of what was going on in the car at the time of the accident. Or, what if our heads were equipped with just such a box? What were our thoughts right at the very moment the accident happened? Would we be having pleasant thoughts? WOuld we be focused on Godly things or worldly things? This is more of a "Rambling of a Wandering Mind" episode than anything!! Besides, newer vehicles are already equipped with such a device...........it's called ONSTAR!!!
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
The Sacrificial Pig
Ever had one of those days that seemed like a dream. Not a nightmare but not necessarily a good dream; kinda like you are watching what is going on. Then, when you least expect it, God sends something your way, even if just for a moment, to shock or awe you; or just make you laugh.
One day last week, I was having just such a day. I won't get into the details; most of you already know; prayer brought me through it. I was on my way to Fort Smith with Dad talking to John on the phone telling him what was going. When lo and behold, on the side of the road lay roadkill. Aw yes! Roadkill. It comes in many forms in Arkansas...skunks, snakes, dogs, cats, deer, opossums, birds, and my personal favorite is the belly up armadillo with the strategically placed beverage bottles laying around it. Roadkill in it's self is not anything that would normally cause me a second thought. This particular roadkill, however, was a PIG!!!!!!! Yes, just a lil' ol' Miss Piggy pig laying silently on the side of the road! It made me laugh. Is that demented? A pig gave his/her life to brighten my day?!?!?!?! Thanks! I needed that!
One day last week, I was having just such a day. I won't get into the details; most of you already know; prayer brought me through it. I was on my way to Fort Smith with Dad talking to John on the phone telling him what was going. When lo and behold, on the side of the road lay roadkill. Aw yes! Roadkill. It comes in many forms in Arkansas...skunks, snakes, dogs, cats, deer, opossums, birds, and my personal favorite is the belly up armadillo with the strategically placed beverage bottles laying around it. Roadkill in it's self is not anything that would normally cause me a second thought. This particular roadkill, however, was a PIG!!!!!!! Yes, just a lil' ol' Miss Piggy pig laying silently on the side of the road! It made me laugh. Is that demented? A pig gave his/her life to brighten my day?!?!?!?! Thanks! I needed that!
Friday, September 29, 2006
Thursday, September 21, 2006
I Aged 10 Years Today!
Well, it happened today. I knew that it would but you never really are prepared for such a travesty. Luke and I went to WalMart today. It was a beautiful day, slightly overcast, nice breeze, and the smell of rain a'coming.
We had a really enjoyable time. Double clicking on each other. Luke has been playing with a computer mouse. He and I have started "double-clicking" each other; because, what do you do when you want to choose something on the computer.
We came outside and there were two nice ladies picking at Luke. One of them asked me that question that I knew would eventually pass my ears. "Are you his grandmother?"
We had a really enjoyable time. Double clicking on each other. Luke has been playing with a computer mouse. He and I have started "double-clicking" each other; because, what do you do when you want to choose something on the computer.
We came outside and there were two nice ladies picking at Luke. One of them asked me that question that I knew would eventually pass my ears. "Are you his grandmother?"
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
The very Nerve of Some People
Friday night, we went to Norphlet. It is between Camden and El Dorado. The nicest people that I met all night was the EMTs (See previous statement regarding stories). When I was paying for Moriah's ticket into the game, I stood Luke on the ground in front of me. I handed the lady my money and Moriah screamed "Mom! Luke's in the road!" I thought that it was a little dirt walk way. It was INSIDE the stadium!!!! Out of the corner of my eye I see a car barreling down the path (granted, the young lady driving was not breaking the speed of sound but was too fast for Friday night INSIDE a football stadium). I dropped everything and ran and grabbed Luke. When I got back to the "money box" lady, the little idget told me that she had already given me my change. She argued with me that she had. I said, "No ma'am you didn't! You may have given it to someone else but not to me." She said, "Are you sure?" I said, "Yes I am. It played out like this. You made me pay for my daughter! I handed you a $10. The baby wandered out into the road. My daughter screamed 'Luke's in the road!' Car came, dropped my stuff, ran to get the baby, came back for my change." She said, "Yeah! You're right!" THEN, she handed me the $6 that she was holding in her hand the ENTIRE time!!!!
At halftime, I went to watch the band. We stood bold and proud in our green and gold. We ignored the way they nonchalantly talked about how bad they thought they were going to beat us and couldn't believe they were only up 3 points. When the band was coming onto the field, I went to sit down while I was hold Luke. I totally missed the seat and fell. Luke began to scream. I didn't know if he was hurt or scared. I was unsure if he had bumped his head on the metal bleachers or if I had fallen on one of his limbs. I sat there on the ground with people actually stepping over me. People were sitting in the bleachers right behind where I fell. NO ONE asked me if I was okay, if Luke was okay, or even questioned that there was a middle aged woman sitting on the ground with a screaming baby. I sat there for what seemed like an eternity but was probably only like 2 minutes. I checked Luke's arms and legs for protruding bones or torn flesh. I checked his head for contusions and/or lacerations. He seemed fine but he was still screaming. I asked Moriah if she would take Luke. Then, I managed to get myself up off the ground and I took Luke back. Still, no sign of concern from the Norphlet people, they just watched in amazement. By the time that I got back to the visitor side, my back was tightening up. Our supt. wife made me go talk to the EMTs to make a report in case I had actually hurt something; there was a report. When we were walking back to the stands, John walks up with the Norphlet band director. So, following proper etiquette and protocol, John introduces me to the young man by slapping me on the back and saying "This is my wife!" If ever I would hit John, this would have been it. But, my back hurt too bad! I guess that is payback for the torture that I put him through when he fell out of the tree and broke his back.
OH by the way, we won the game by 30 points. Who dat talkin' bout beatin' da Hornets?
At halftime, I went to watch the band. We stood bold and proud in our green and gold. We ignored the way they nonchalantly talked about how bad they thought they were going to beat us and couldn't believe they were only up 3 points. When the band was coming onto the field, I went to sit down while I was hold Luke. I totally missed the seat and fell. Luke began to scream. I didn't know if he was hurt or scared. I was unsure if he had bumped his head on the metal bleachers or if I had fallen on one of his limbs. I sat there on the ground with people actually stepping over me. People were sitting in the bleachers right behind where I fell. NO ONE asked me if I was okay, if Luke was okay, or even questioned that there was a middle aged woman sitting on the ground with a screaming baby. I sat there for what seemed like an eternity but was probably only like 2 minutes. I checked Luke's arms and legs for protruding bones or torn flesh. I checked his head for contusions and/or lacerations. He seemed fine but he was still screaming. I asked Moriah if she would take Luke. Then, I managed to get myself up off the ground and I took Luke back. Still, no sign of concern from the Norphlet people, they just watched in amazement. By the time that I got back to the visitor side, my back was tightening up. Our supt. wife made me go talk to the EMTs to make a report in case I had actually hurt something; there was a report. When we were walking back to the stands, John walks up with the Norphlet band director. So, following proper etiquette and protocol, John introduces me to the young man by slapping me on the back and saying "This is my wife!" If ever I would hit John, this would have been it. But, my back hurt too bad! I guess that is payback for the torture that I put him through when he fell out of the tree and broke his back.
OH by the way, we won the game by 30 points. Who dat talkin' bout beatin' da Hornets?
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Satan is a TeleMarketer!
Didn't we really all already know this?
I have just started a new Beth Moore Bible study. This is the first study that I have been hyped about before I actually started it. Wednesday afternoon, I finally got Luke down for a nap that could potentially give me enough time to get through one day of the study.
During my prayer, I asked the Lord to let Luke rest long enough for me to get through this day of my study. I know we are to pray specifically but I forgot to mention something very important. As I was drawing near the end of my study for the day (about 10 minutes left). The phone rings. I jumped and ran to the phone just to try to get to it before Luke awakened. Of course, to no avail!!!!!!!!!
I answered. There was no one there. You know that means they will call again because I have just provided them with a time of day that someone will be home. I was aggravated because I just needed 10 minutes!!!!!!!! Is that too much to ask? I looked down at Luke who was now looking up at me with both precious little hands on my leg and those little tired eyes, smile on his face. I said, "Baby Doll, Momma needs just a few more minutes and I will hold you for the rest of the day."
I had the remote control sitting beside me. And, there is always at least one Baby Einstein ready to go. I chose Baby Mozart because there are no words to the music (so I won't be distracted from my reading) and Luke loves them all. He sat his preciousness at my feet almost as if he understood what I meant. He watched his video and I finished my Bible study with the soothing sounds of Mozart in the back ground.
When I was finished, Luke crawled up in my lap and stayed there for the rest of the afternoon (which wasn't really that long). I praise the Lord for this precious moment!
I have just started a new Beth Moore Bible study. This is the first study that I have been hyped about before I actually started it. Wednesday afternoon, I finally got Luke down for a nap that could potentially give me enough time to get through one day of the study.
During my prayer, I asked the Lord to let Luke rest long enough for me to get through this day of my study. I know we are to pray specifically but I forgot to mention something very important. As I was drawing near the end of my study for the day (about 10 minutes left). The phone rings. I jumped and ran to the phone just to try to get to it before Luke awakened. Of course, to no avail!!!!!!!!!
I answered. There was no one there. You know that means they will call again because I have just provided them with a time of day that someone will be home. I was aggravated because I just needed 10 minutes!!!!!!!! Is that too much to ask? I looked down at Luke who was now looking up at me with both precious little hands on my leg and those little tired eyes, smile on his face. I said, "Baby Doll, Momma needs just a few more minutes and I will hold you for the rest of the day."
I had the remote control sitting beside me. And, there is always at least one Baby Einstein ready to go. I chose Baby Mozart because there are no words to the music (so I won't be distracted from my reading) and Luke loves them all. He sat his preciousness at my feet almost as if he understood what I meant. He watched his video and I finished my Bible study with the soothing sounds of Mozart in the back ground.
When I was finished, Luke crawled up in my lap and stayed there for the rest of the afternoon (which wasn't really that long). I praise the Lord for this precious moment!
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Can you hear me now?
John is constantly nagging at me for not carrying my cell phone. I don't keep it charged. Well, excuse me (first of all) for not being at the beckon call of the world. No one ever calls me unless of course it is John. That could be because I never carry the phone.
It turns out that Luke is a real mover and shaker. The particular "moved and shaken" item of the week is my rarely used cell phone. Normally, this would not be a problem. He looks kinda cute walking around the house with a cell phone attached to his ear saying "'lo!" But as afore mentioned, I hardly ever charge my phone!" Somewhere in this house is a nearly new telecommunicator with a dead battery. So, it's not like I can call on the house phone and follow the ring around until I find the phone (yes, this is a practice that we use often at our house!).
Luke knows where it is. I know that he does. This morning as I was playing Crouching Tiger Hidden Cell Phone Luke was following me around the house laughing. I have crawled through the entire house and no cell phone anywhere.
When I do finally locate my phone, there is a treat waiting for me! I have left myself several messages while trying to find it. I will feel important if only for a moment a to my very self.
It turns out that Luke is a real mover and shaker. The particular "moved and shaken" item of the week is my rarely used cell phone. Normally, this would not be a problem. He looks kinda cute walking around the house with a cell phone attached to his ear saying "'lo!" But as afore mentioned, I hardly ever charge my phone!" Somewhere in this house is a nearly new telecommunicator with a dead battery. So, it's not like I can call on the house phone and follow the ring around until I find the phone (yes, this is a practice that we use often at our house!).
Luke knows where it is. I know that he does. This morning as I was playing Crouching Tiger Hidden Cell Phone Luke was following me around the house laughing. I have crawled through the entire house and no cell phone anywhere.
When I do finally locate my phone, there is a treat waiting for me! I have left myself several messages while trying to find it. I will feel important if only for a moment a to my very self.
Friday, August 18, 2006
The Good Ol' Days
Recently, I was communicating via email with a friend from high school. She was talking about when we were in grade school and used to have disco dance-offs. Even though I have forgotten that particular recess activity, how fun!!!!
I do, however, remember other things. I remember playing kickball. I remember being naive. I remember teachers being concerned because the kids (boyand girl couples)were holding hands on the playground. I remember the pain of telling my mother "I am too old to wear ruffles and lace now Mom." I remember being obnoxious to substiute teachers (something I have paid dearly for in recent years). I remember selling fundraiser stuff and thinking that I was the greatest salesperson in the world. I remember the hurt of not making pee wee cheerleader.
Now, we had our fair share of hardships. I remember one boy getting caught with illegal drugs in 4th grade (he got it from his parents stash). But, overall, we can look back and say we were pretty sheltered in our younger days (or at least most of us).
Having said all of that......Almighty God please be with our children! Times have changed. Not all is bad. I like to sit and watch my daughter play on the playground with her little friends. It all seems so innocent much like we were. But, the things that parents (most of them our age and younger) allow their precious young ones to be exposed. Kids have more access to information through the media than we did.
I don't think I want to know exactly what my child knows. We were watching TV together the other day and they were reviewing a book that had the word "Sex" in the title. It was on the evening news so I know it wasn't porn or anything. Moriah says "Gross! Did you hear that word he said?" The news guy repeated the title. "That is so disgusting!" she retorted. I wanted so bad to ask but my heart just ached and what the actual answer would be. I am not sticking my head in the sand. I have asked this question on a different too-young-to-know phrase that came up before and I literally felt my body melt and ooze out of the chair in which I was sitting when I got the answer.
So, I guess all things considered, it is still safe to say, "Oh! To be young again!" But, oh to be young again in the 1970s (to steal a quote from my 9 year old). I wouldn't want to be growing up in today's world and dealing with what my daughter does.
I do, however, remember other things. I remember playing kickball. I remember being naive. I remember teachers being concerned because the kids (boyand girl couples)were holding hands on the playground. I remember the pain of telling my mother "I am too old to wear ruffles and lace now Mom." I remember being obnoxious to substiute teachers (something I have paid dearly for in recent years). I remember selling fundraiser stuff and thinking that I was the greatest salesperson in the world. I remember the hurt of not making pee wee cheerleader.
Now, we had our fair share of hardships. I remember one boy getting caught with illegal drugs in 4th grade (he got it from his parents stash). But, overall, we can look back and say we were pretty sheltered in our younger days (or at least most of us).
Having said all of that......Almighty God please be with our children! Times have changed. Not all is bad. I like to sit and watch my daughter play on the playground with her little friends. It all seems so innocent much like we were. But, the things that parents (most of them our age and younger) allow their precious young ones to be exposed. Kids have more access to information through the media than we did.
I don't think I want to know exactly what my child knows. We were watching TV together the other day and they were reviewing a book that had the word "Sex" in the title. It was on the evening news so I know it wasn't porn or anything. Moriah says "Gross! Did you hear that word he said?" The news guy repeated the title. "That is so disgusting!" she retorted. I wanted so bad to ask but my heart just ached and what the actual answer would be. I am not sticking my head in the sand. I have asked this question on a different too-young-to-know phrase that came up before and I literally felt my body melt and ooze out of the chair in which I was sitting when I got the answer.
So, I guess all things considered, it is still safe to say, "Oh! To be young again!" But, oh to be young again in the 1970s (to steal a quote from my 9 year old). I wouldn't want to be growing up in today's world and dealing with what my daughter does.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Things I've Learned in the Past Year!
*Always place the clean diaper over the cleaned target area before reaching for the ointment.
*You are what you eat explains why little boys are made of snips, snails, and puppy dog tails.
*A Playskool ball fits perfectly in the speaker of a subwoofer.
*Always leave the toilet lid down and the bathroom door shut.
*Nap time doesn't end until you are seated in your nice hot relaxing bath.
*Baby Einstein cures what ails you.
*A crashed computer is not always an indication of a virus.
*A Personal Floatation Device, regardless of what government agency approved it, will not float the way you need it to if your child was born to snorkel.*Chocolate may be harmful to dogs but is apparently quite tasty to a little boy.
*First steps are used as manipulation and control.
*There is no such thing as a child safety lock.
*The pains of child birth are nothing compared to the lacerations caused by pearlly white little pirahnna teeth.
*Toddlers are little terrorists.
*I have at least 1 and maybe 2 weapons of mass destruction living in my house.
*I have been richly blessed more than I could have ever imagined!!
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Hey Baby, You got style!
We were in Waldron driving down West 2nd Street headed to Wal-Mart. There was a middle aged man riding down the side of the street on a bicycle. He was peddling away doing his thing. I said, "That is so uncool!"
Moriah asked what I was talking about. I pointed out to her that the man had on shorts with teenies and black socks. Moriah said, "Ew! That is not stylish!"
I said, "It just isn't right is it?"
She said, "No, it's not. I know this because I have a good Fashion Sense!"
Where does she come up with this stuff?
Moriah asked what I was talking about. I pointed out to her that the man had on shorts with teenies and black socks. Moriah said, "Ew! That is not stylish!"
I said, "It just isn't right is it?"
She said, "No, it's not. I know this because I have a good Fashion Sense!"
Where does she come up with this stuff?
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Grosser than Gross!!!!
Last week we were at the Arkansas Bandmasters Association convention. It is always lots of fun. We have some good friends that we always hang out with at the convention. They have 2 little girls, ages 7 and 2 1/2. Moriah and the 7 year old get along really well.
I'm sure that the baby and Luke will get along well when Luke is a little older. They have some of the same bad habits. For instance, they both put everything they come in contact with in their mouths.
Anna Claire is a beautiful little girl. She looks just like a little doll. Over a period of 3 days these are a few things that she put in her mouth: a cheeto she found under the bed in our room (that belonged to neither family), water from the pool, and beads. Her parents had told us that she likes to chew on baby wipes and they had caught her with as many as 5 totally in her mouth.
On Thursday evening, we went to dinner at Olive Garden. That was a different experience but the grossest thing happened when we got back to the hotel. John was changing Luke's diaper and it required several wipes. Of course, it was chaotic with the 2 other girls running around the room playing. Not to mention, Luke flopping around like a fish out of water and screaming because he can't be still while you are changing him. AnnaClaire reached over and grabbed a wipe from the soiled diaper and stuck it in her mouth. John said in the midst of the madness, "Uh! Anna Claire has a dirty wipe in her mouth!" Her mother began to struggle to get it out. When the mom got it away from the child, Anna Claire stood there with her little blond pigtails, a big ol' grin on her face, and a brown substance in the corner of her mouth. John started whining, "I think she ate a turd!"
I was on the bed laughing so hard I almost wet myself. In fact, I may have just a little. When we were leaving Olive Garden, the waitress gave us some chocolate mints. As Anna Claire was walking into our hotel room I noticed that she had chocolate on her mouth. Apparently, John did not!
I'm sure that the baby and Luke will get along well when Luke is a little older. They have some of the same bad habits. For instance, they both put everything they come in contact with in their mouths.
Anna Claire is a beautiful little girl. She looks just like a little doll. Over a period of 3 days these are a few things that she put in her mouth: a cheeto she found under the bed in our room (that belonged to neither family), water from the pool, and beads. Her parents had told us that she likes to chew on baby wipes and they had caught her with as many as 5 totally in her mouth.
On Thursday evening, we went to dinner at Olive Garden. That was a different experience but the grossest thing happened when we got back to the hotel. John was changing Luke's diaper and it required several wipes. Of course, it was chaotic with the 2 other girls running around the room playing. Not to mention, Luke flopping around like a fish out of water and screaming because he can't be still while you are changing him. AnnaClaire reached over and grabbed a wipe from the soiled diaper and stuck it in her mouth. John said in the midst of the madness, "Uh! Anna Claire has a dirty wipe in her mouth!" Her mother began to struggle to get it out. When the mom got it away from the child, Anna Claire stood there with her little blond pigtails, a big ol' grin on her face, and a brown substance in the corner of her mouth. John started whining, "I think she ate a turd!"
I was on the bed laughing so hard I almost wet myself. In fact, I may have just a little. When we were leaving Olive Garden, the waitress gave us some chocolate mints. As Anna Claire was walking into our hotel room I noticed that she had chocolate on her mouth. Apparently, John did not!
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Long time no see!
Wow! It's been a long time since I posted. We have been SO busy. Mostly with band director stuff. John had band camp 9-14 and ABA (Arkansas Bandmasters Association).
Moriah has a dark tan. She spends a lot of time in the water and sun. She is ready for school. By that I mean, she has all of her supplies and clothes. Otherwise, probably would rather it stay summer forever.
Luke is walking now. But, he still prefers to crawl, probably because he is really good at it! He gets a little turbo action thing going when he crawls. We just found out that he is going to wear glasses at least for a while. This should be interesting.
John is gearing up for band. Their show this year is 70s Disco. It should be pretty cheesy which usually goes over well. They are playing Disco Inferno, Night Fever, and Play that Funky Music. Tune in later to hear about how it works out.
With me, it is just the same old same old. Fighting off allergens, a messy house, and the teeth of Piranha Baby.
Moriah has a dark tan. She spends a lot of time in the water and sun. She is ready for school. By that I mean, she has all of her supplies and clothes. Otherwise, probably would rather it stay summer forever.
Luke is walking now. But, he still prefers to crawl, probably because he is really good at it! He gets a little turbo action thing going when he crawls. We just found out that he is going to wear glasses at least for a while. This should be interesting.
John is gearing up for band. Their show this year is 70s Disco. It should be pretty cheesy which usually goes over well. They are playing Disco Inferno, Night Fever, and Play that Funky Music. Tune in later to hear about how it works out.
With me, it is just the same old same old. Fighting off allergens, a messy house, and the teeth of Piranha Baby.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Boyz R So Mean!
We have been watching videos of Moriah when she was a little. She was such a Sweetie! With her Christmas and Birthday "I wonder what it is!" with every present she opened. Her Pebbles Poof hairdo on top of her head was just too cute!
Now there is Luke. In the immortal words of Pooh, "Oh Bother!" He looks just like Moriah (in the face anyway) when she was that age. He is sweet in his own litte ways. The way he laughs when we are laughing; the way he makes his "S" sound; and the way he smiles and bounces on my lap when I sing "To God Be the Glory" to him...especially on the verse about him (don't look in your hymnal, he and I wrote it one morning when he was having trouble going to sleep); it all makes me realize how richly blessed we are with 2 beautiful healthy lovable children.
When Moriah was about Luke's age, she bit me one day. This was a shock! All of the Child Development hoopla that had been drilled into my head during college went right out the window. I spatted her on the leg (not hard; don't feel like you need to call the child abuse hotline on me for something that the statute of limitations has more than likely expired on) and said "No!" She cried for a little bit but not long. A few days later, same story different parent, she bit John. Same result, he spatted her and said "no!" and she cried a bit. It worked. She never bit us or anyone else again. Man, we are such good parents!! We mastered the "biting child" problem..........yeah, uh, WHATEVER!
Then came Luke! Luke bites. Luke bites hard. He has never even tried to bite anyone except family. I tried to tell myself and others that he was trying to kiss. I don't know though. He really seems to enjoy the pain it inflicts on us. We have tried everything short of running from him (Well, actually, Moriah has done that too!). His favorite now is coming up to you, biting you, looking up, smiling, SPATTING HIMSELF, and laughing because you are in deep pain! I want to hurt him just so he will know exactly how bad it hurts! But, just at that very moment, I have an out of body experience (like I'm watching the whole thing on TV) and it is pretty funny! I can't laugh though! Not because of the inappropriateness of it all, but because there is blood dripping down my face where those sharp little razor blades have penetrated my skin and I'm gritting my teeth to keep from screaming out in agony.
I'm sure that John and I did something in our childhood that caused our parents severe pain and this is our punishment!!!!!!
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Happy 4th of July!
Happy 4th of July everyone! It hard to believe our country is 230 years old. I remember when it was merely 200. We had a pretty good day. We took Luke to his fireworks display. He loved it! He didn't get upset until the "lights" stopped.
WE sure missed Moriah! I think Luke is missing her too. She is at her Nanna and Papa's for the past few weeks. Mom takes her swimming at the pool and she loves that. I can't wait to see her. We are going up Saturday on our way to band camp. It has become tradition to spend the week with Aunt Laura during band camp.
We have talked to Moriah about everyday. She doesn't seem to be homesick. She is playing outside a lot (this is good). Mom and Dad only have one dog. He is old and is skiddish around everybody but them. Here at home, Moriah doesn't like Chloe jumping on her.
WE sure missed Moriah! I think Luke is missing her too. She is at her Nanna and Papa's for the past few weeks. Mom takes her swimming at the pool and she loves that. I can't wait to see her. We are going up Saturday on our way to band camp. It has become tradition to spend the week with Aunt Laura during band camp.
We have talked to Moriah about everyday. She doesn't seem to be homesick. She is playing outside a lot (this is good). Mom and Dad only have one dog. He is old and is skiddish around everybody but them. Here at home, Moriah doesn't like Chloe jumping on her.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
July 1--What a Special Day!!
Eleven years ago today, John and I got married. One year later, at the top of the Eiffel Tower, I told John that I thought I might be pregnant. Seven months later Moriah was born. In 2005, Luke was due on July 1st. He came on June 17th by scheduled c-section. But, today, July 1st 2006, one year and 2 weeks after he was born.......Luke took his first steps. He walked a few and sat down. I ran and got the camcorder, recorded 4 steps and he was done. Good night Sweet Luke! You've had a good day!
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