Saturday, September 27, 2008
I Give Up
The kids have been playing soccer for three weeks now. Every Saturday morning I have the pleasure of running around trying to find where their clean shirts, shorts, and shinguards disappeared to, and usually Sarah is behind it all. But if you ask her, she just puts her hands up and shrugs, saying, "I dunno, Mom." Then she shouts, "There it is!" when you find it. Cute. Notsomuch.
Maggie finally played today. Every week we would take her, and every week she would cry. She didn't know anyone, so she was too scared to play. This week I enlisted dear Aunt Ro to try and coax her into playing. It worked like a charm. She brought her to the field (I was already there watching Daniel play) and managed to get her close enough to introduce her to all the other kids. She did do some crying, but not nearly what she was doing for us. By the time we walked over to the field she was playing on she was a happy camper and just kept smiling and waving at us. Yeah. Only five more weeks to go.
Daniel plays on the first and second grade team. Last week he "officially" became part of the second grade team. The game is played in four quarters and they put the first graders out together in the first quarter, then the second graders for the second, and switch off and on until the end. I noticed today that there is only one other first grader that gets to play with the second graders, so I was quite impressed. It's amazing how much better he gets each week. I'll be curious to see where this leads one day. He has some cousins that are very good and play on the traveling team. I'm not so sure I'm looking forward to that as some of their games have been as far as Maryland!
Now if they traveled to Florida I wouldn't mind so much ; )
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
13 Weeks
And yes, it's going to be a lame post. Here's what's going on in there now:
There is a lot going on with your baby this week. Your baby's intestines are migrating from the umbilical cord into his or her abdomen. The villi are also forming in the intestines, and these help in peristaltic movements and digestion. The liver begins to secrete bile and the pancreas is even secreting insulin! All twenty teeth have formed and are waiting under the gums, while your baby has begun to practice swallowing by taking in the surrounding amniotic fluid and pass it back in his urine. Your baby can smile and his vocal cords are quickly developing, too. He looks more and more human as his eyes move closer together and the ears are beginning to move to what will be their normal positions. Your baby weighs between approximately 13 and 20 grams (½ and ¾ ounce) and is approximately 2½ to 3 inches long. The placenta and baby are about the same weight now.
This week marks the end of the embryonic period. Most of the vital systems are developed now, and baby starts really growing, at times, growing as much as an inch this week.
So, there you have it. Hopefully it won't be another five weeks before I update......but you never know!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
8 Weeks
The reason I've been so tired and so absent:
Week Eight
Cartilage and bones begin to form - At the end of this week your baby will have already completed 1/5th of the journey 'til his birthday!
The basic structure of the eye is well underway - The position is more "newborn" like already!
The tongue begins to develop
Intestines move out of the umbilical cord into the abdomen.
Body grows and makes room - Two months along and this little one is growing inside and out by leaps and bounds!
The fingers and toes have appeared but are webbed and short
Baby's length (crown to rump) is 0.61 inch (1.6cm) and weight is 0.04 ounce (1gm)
Who would think something less than an inch could use up so much energy? Methinks there are at least four of them. There must be. I. Am. That. Tired. What? You think it's because I'm pushing 39 yo and have five other kids to take care? I think it's quads, or triplets at the very least. That must explain why I have no energy to do anything, nor the desire to do so. Growing babies is hard work, people. When my DH walks in the door, I tell him, "I made an ear today; what'd you do?". His answer never comes close to anything as cool.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
20 Months
If there is music playing we can find you there dancing. You have the cutest little hip sway. The faintest sound of music will have you running. Many people have stopped to watch you as you boogie to the beat. One time in the grocery store you were dancing in your seat while two older ladies were watching and smiling, which only adds to your pleasure. You are quite the ham.
There are so many things about you that I wish I could bottle up and remember. I love the way you will put your hand up high to wave and say, "Hi!" to everyone you see. It's especially funny when you do it to your sister Charlotte when she comes down from her nap. She is usually grumpy when she first wakes up, but that doesn't stop you. There you are, in her face, saying, "Hi....hi.....hi", waving away until she acknowledges you, which she usually does with a big laugh. I get the biggest kick out of walking in a room with you that is full of people and everyone chuckling at you waving and saying hi to them. You would make a great politician! There hasn't been a stranger yet that you've shyed away from.
Lately people have been commenting on your growth. It seems they think you've "shot up", but I'm not really sure. You are still wearing 18 mos, although 24 mos aren't looking quite as big on you anymore. The sandals (sz 6) that were big on you in May are now getting small, so it looks like your onto a sz 6.5 now. If I had to guess I'd say you weigh around 25 lbs. A few people have asked us recently if Charlotte and you are twins (because we sometimes dress you alike), but you are still much shorter than her, although I guess you are gaining. It will be interesting to see how you progress.
As for your likes and dislikes.........foods you love: food. Seriously, you are one of my best eaters. You certainly give Maggie (my official "best eater") a run for her money. You are willing to try anything and more times than not like it. Such a pleasure after having to deal with Miss Charlotte-I-Don't-Like-Anything-You-Put-In-Front-Of-Me child. It is a pleasure to share my vegetables with you ; ) There really isn't anything you dislike. The only real dislike you have is being told "No", and well, that's too bad because it's going to keep happening. Sorry, kiddo.
Remy asked me today when we were going to have another baby. It seems he thinks you are too old to be the baby. What do you think? I think you rather enjoy being doted on. And that's a good thing 'cause we all enjoying doting on you!
My sweet Sarah Beth.......I love you always and forever
Monday, July 28, 2008
Has Anyone Seen My Energy?
Yesterday we had a storm blow through. It was perfect timing; just as I was trying to get the girls down for a nap.....so I could
My knight in shining armor came home and hooked everything up, including my bedroom fan so I could take my much needed nap, especially now that I had a migraine come on. And yes, of course the power came back on fifteen minutes after he had all the extension cords running all over the house; how did you know? It was a long day, but I'm thankful I woke up migraine free!
I'm still waiting for my power to come back on, though. I have a ways to go, me thinks!
Friday, July 18, 2008
Happy Dance
So, come on; what are you waiting for? Shake, shake, shake......shake, shake, shake....shake your bootie! Shake your bootie!
Dance with me!! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Dear Blog
Love,
Me
PS-It's not just you that I'm finding it difficult to visit; it's also
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Birthday Girl X 2
Despite my crying, pleading, and bribing you not to get older, you went ahead and turned five years old today. I think Charlotte and you are in cahoots. The both of you keep insisting you can't stay little forever since that isn't how God made you. Hmpf. I guess all I get are photos and memories to remember these days. It goes so quickly. The funny thing is, I think you would stay little if you could just to make me happy, you are just that sweet. My heart swells with love when I think of you and how precious you are to me. You truly fit the saying "Sugar and spice, and everything nice." Watching you with your little sisters and seeing how patient you are with them, brings tears to my eyes. You will be a fantastic mommy one day! So loving and kind you are; I could learn some things from you. The overly sensitive side you have I've already mastered. When your eyes fill with tears and you say to your offender, "You hurt my feelings.", it takes me back to my own childhood, only you have the guts to speak up. Please don't loose that confidence; it's one of the many things we love about you.
Today was a great weather day and we spent it at the pool club. It was so fun to watch you as you made your candy necklace, played with the playdoh, and got your face painted. Of course your little sidekick was right beside you every step of the way. Coming home and having your birthday dinner of Chinese food (girl after my own heart!) was the perfect ending to a perfect day.
It has been my pleasure, and for sure my honor, to call you my daughter. As much as I wish you could stay little forever, I really am looking forward to what the future holds. You are such a blessed little girl and I know we will see great things from you!
Happy Birthday, Maggie! May the Lord watch over you today and always!
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Birthday Girl
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Home Safe And Sound
Monday, June 16, 2008
Two Days
For my part I will have all laundry done, fridge full, and house (somewhat) clean. I have two days to do it, plus pack my suitcase......with what, I'm not sure; nothing fits me now......and Jeff is working pretty much up until I leave. Who needs sleep?
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
My Father
Tomorrow I will go and see him, and we will laugh and joke like always, but through it I will remember how lucky we are to still have him. He will be 77 in October, and I completely dread the day that the phone call will end differently. One day God will want him, but I really hope it's many, many years from now.
Please say a prayer for a quick recovery for my daddy!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Fifty-Five
What; how did I do it? Mostly by eating less and moving more. The treadmill has become my best friend in most recent weeks. The Pilates moves I learned eons ago were brought back into play and my Curves membership was actually used. It is amazing how much more energy I have; which was my biggest motivator. Keeping up with my children is very important to me, and being overweight made it harder on my mind and body. Being able to run around, up and down many stairs, and accomplish so much more without getting winded has been a true blessing.
I'm very happy with my results so far (and Dh is.....um...a little bit, too) and really, really hoping to try out pregnancy at my new weight. I'm a good 20 lbs under any starting weight of previous pregnancies. It will be fun to see the look on my OB's face when he sees my chart. Let's just pray I get to see that look!
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Heatwave
Maybe one day I'll actually find my photo thingy (yes, I'm a professional photographer, can't you tell?) and being able to share some photos of said pool.
Heatwave
Because of said forecast my wonderful hubby spent yesterday setting up our pool. He knew I would need some kind of relief for the children since I have vowed not to turn on the air conditioning until June 15th. Of course, I made that vowed back in the beginning of May when it was still so cold at night I was begging him to make a fire in the fireplace. Now I'm starting to wonder what I was thinking. My usual goal is June 1st, so I'm happy to have made it farther this year. Luckily we live in an old house that tends to stay cool, as long as I don't open any blinds. Right now it is 95 degrees outside, yet only 78 in the house. It actually feels cool coming in from outside.
Tomorrow we go to our niece's Baptism party. This is my niece's second daughter. It was a rough recovery for her and it will be nice to see that she is finally on the road to feeling better. The party will be in the clubhouse at my parents' condo. It is late afternoon, so it shouldn't be to unbareable. I'm sure I will have the pleasure of taking the kids outside to the playground. It will keep me up tonight with excitement thinking about it. My husband will be so jealous that he has to go to work in an air conditioned building and miss out on it. I will make sure to rub it in his face tonight :-P
Thursday, June 5, 2008
And The Countdown Begins
The reason for my visit is my friend's charity dinner. Every year, for the past three years, she has hosted this event to raise money for a wonderful charity she has started. This charity raises money to pay for the funerals of babies that have died from SIDS. These parents are in complete shock, and often without the funds to pay for a funeral (who plans for that when planning for a baby?), so she has been there to help many of these families over the years. It is something near and dear to her heart. Her youngest boy, Lazarus Addison, died from SIDs on Saturday, September 14, 2002. He was just shy of six months old. My family and I had been planning on flying down Wednesday for her oldest boy's birthday. When I got the call I changed my flight and left on Sunday. I think I was still numb when I boarded the plane.
It will be so great to see my friend and her family, but this trip is always bittersweet. We spend lots of time talking about "Addie", and lots of time missing him. The trip usually includes a trip to his gravesite, where he still doesn't have a headstone. His mother was just telling me yesterday that she plans to do it; before now it just made it too real. I know she will never feel the same as before, but each year she seems to get back to the 'old' Jenny. It something she struggles with, feeling like she is forgetting him by being happy, but I pray daily that she finds great peace.
Lazarus Addison Jacobs
3/19/02-6/14/02
We love and miss you, Addie!
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Feeling The Burn
Last night I had the pleasure of babysitting a three month old. I put my info out on sittercity.com to see if I could earn some play money. This couple contacted me about a month ago to see if I would be interested in doing some overnights for them. They have no family in town, so they were hoping to find a reliable sitter. We met at my house last month for an "interview" (I had to laugh when they told me "You having five kids kind of speaks for itself, but...") and they told me they would be in touch. I figured they had moved on to someone who maybe had more flexibility when I hadn't heard from them again, but they called last week to see if I was able to watch their baby this weekend. Hmmmm.....let's see, do I want to snuggle a little itty baby and get paid for it?!? You betcha! She was simply adorable and couldn't have been any easier. I almost (I said almost) felt guilty taking their money! I do have to say I was curious to see how I would react holding a little one again. It goes without saying that I would love another, but some days (the really crazy ones) I stop and think if it stops here I might be okay with it. It certainly is getting easier the older the kids get, and I often think about how throwing a newborn in to the mix would change it up, especially with Jeff working so much more. But, alas, I was totally, completely sucked right back in to that wondeful, delicious babyness and know in my heart I'd really love another. I'm just glad it's up to Him to decide because I know He knows me best of all.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
What A Difference A Year Makes
I had no idea what I was going to hear when I walked in those hospital doors. My sister had called me at home to tell me it was not good and to get down there quick. It was the longest and most frightening ride. Your mind just goes in a thousand different directions, all while you are praying and begging God not to take her yet!
Today she is a happy and healthy 4 yo. She did have some post traumatic stress in recent months, but considering what she went thru it's not surprising. It definitely leaves a lasting impact on you; I still look at her with amazement that she is here. No one, not the doctors, the nurses, the EMT's that worked on her, thought she would be here today. She was in the hospital for almost three weeks before she came home; walking and functioning like normal. One of God's miracles, for sure.
On a lighter note, this Memorial Day weekend was spent having fun and socializing with friends and family. The weather was absolutely perfect the whole time and we spent plenty of time outside soaking it up. Jeff's family came on Saturday to celebrate Remy's birthday and it was great to see the kids running and enjoying each other. The "Great Aunt Jean" stayed from Friday night until Sunday and the kids just lapped up her attention.
I hope all future Memorial Day's are as great as this one; and last year's is never repeated.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Dear Child
From the moment you could talk clearly you have made us laugh. Sometimes it is just you laughing that makes us laugh. It is probably one of the best laughs I have ever heard. Many people have started laughing hysterically after hearing it; Aunt Jean and Mom being the ones that jump to mind. You have such a great sense of humor. It always amazes me how easily you can laugh at yourself. What a wonderful trait to have, my son. Humor can make alot of things appear better than they are. The saying, "Laughter is the best medicine." is so true. The fact that you can look at a mistake you made, and instead of being embarrased, laugh about it, is a positive attribute. I hope that you never lose that.
When you were diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome it confirmed our decision to homeschool. We didn't want you picked on or teased; to be left behind or bored; or in trouble for doing things on your own timetable. It has been a wonderful experience, and we're so happy God led us in this direction. You simply excel at Math, and always have. I have started giving you 4th grade work and you have no problems with it. Occasionally I have to explain something to you, but once you get it you have it mastered. Reading is a different story. I struggled for a time with letting you go at your own pace. It's only just recently you've shown more of an interest. If I had to guess, you are probably a little behind in this area, but I'm sure you will make it up in time. Watching you sound out all the signs we pass makes me smile. Now I have to start paying attention to you when you try and read over my shoulder ; )
Your brother and you have been best friends since the time he could walk. It's been wonderful to see you guys play and have fun. Lately, it's been more frustrating as I watch everything become a competition. It's not so fun listening to you guys argue about who did what with whom. Your father tells me it will only get worse before it gets better. Wonderful. I grew up with only one brother, but a houseful of girls, so this sibling rivalry is new to me. Sure, my sisters and I fought, but it was usually over clothes or whose turn it was to empty the dishwasher; not whether or not it was a foul ball.
As for complaints, I really only have one: your smart-mouth. In fact, I'm ordering a book this week that will hopefully help me figure out how I play a part in your back talking. I know I do since I argue back when I shouldn't, so I'm going to put a stop to it. We will work it out, I know we will because I can tell you want to be a good kid.
Jeremy, you are a very sweet and loving little boy. I am most honored to be your mother. You were very much hoped and prayed for, and you have lived up to our expectations of parenthood. Watching you with your younger siblings, and seeing how patient you are with them, makes my heart swell. You are quick with a hug or a kiss and never shy away from my lovin'. I keep expecting that one day you will feel to old to hug and kiss me, especially in front of your friends, but so far you haven't. It doesn't even faze you when I grab you as you walk by and plant smooches all over your face. I so love that about you.
You are one very special boy, Remy! I hope your father and I always make that clear to you.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Birthdays...One With US, One Without
Today is my MIL's birthday. She would've turned 72. My eyes still fill with tears when I think about her; I miss her so much. It's been four years since she passed away. We found out in January that she was full of cancer and she left us on March 14th. It was too fast; we were all a bit stunned, to say the least. The Lord couldn't have given me a better MIL. She was amazing and I could probably spend a long time bragging about her, but I will just say she was a strong, loving, and compassoniate woman. There are many days I feel so weak, ready to cry and quit, and I think of her; all that she endured and yet was such a happy person when I met her. Almost everyone that knew her called her "Mom"; I think because she treated everyone like her own kids, but mostly because they all wished she was their mom. I think she was the least judgemental person I have ever met, which doesn't mean she always agreed with your decision but that she had a knack for telling you so while also respecting your feelings. If my kids love me half as much as her kids loved her, I will be a very happy person.
Happy Birthday, Mom! I love you.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Cheating Times Two
Friday, February 2, 2007
19 months old
Yesterday you turned 19 months old. Is that really possible? I remember your birth like it happened last week, not 19 months ago. You were my smallest baby so far and we called you peanut, which the nurses thought funny since you were 8lbs3oz. After your older sister arriving at 10lbs4oz, you were small. It was weird putting newborn diapers on you and having them be roomy, with little chicken legs sticking out. Newborn clothes were big, too. Such a difference from your three older siblings.
And here you are, still smaller than the others at this age. You are wearing clothes that actually match your age. The shoes you are wearing are size 5½, exactly what your eldest brother wore at 10 months when he started walking. We'll find out next week exactly what your height and weight are when we go to the doctor.
It is simply amazing to watch you grow. Daddy and I think you are smarter than we remember the others being, but then again our memories aren't what they once were ; ) The faces you make are hysterical. When you say "See ya!" going out the door with Daddy, I can't help but smile. Your big blue eyes sparkle and little lips curl in the cutest smile. I keep wondering when your blonde curls will start getting darker. The attitude you sometimes display is far beyond what I would think a 19 month old would understand. We have all learned that you want what you want, when you want it, or those that defy will pay. Teaching you to share and learn patience is no easy task. It's amazing that you are different with your baby sister. It's like the older kids are here to serve you, but you seem to understand that you are to serve the baby. The way you stroke her head and give her the binky; the way you put the blanket on her; the way you understand she is hungry and mommy can't do something for you since she needs to feed the baby. I can only hope it continues and the two of you become best friends.
The skills you have already acquired amaze us. Even though you are the same size and only slightly older than your cousins you surpass them in so many things. What's even more funny are the looks you give them when they can't do what you are doing. You can't seem to figure out why they don't just hop on the tricycle and put their feet on the peddles. Climbing up the steps and going down the slide is second nature to you, yet they won't even attempt the first step. I wonder how much is you and how much is having older siblings to chase after that has you taking such challenges. You have brought so much joy into our lives. Running to the kitchen when you hear Daddy coming thru the door and jumping into his arms makes my heart melt. Hearing you giggle with your older sister brings an instant smile to my face. Watching one of your brothers help put on the shoes you insist on stomping around the house in, even if they are way to big for you. The fascination you have with other peoples' shoes is too funny. You seem to sniff out a new pair moments after they enter the house.
I have recently started to keep the binky from you except for nap and bedtime. You don't let on that it bothers you, but you have snuck up the stairs and pulled it from your crib a few times. The smile on your face when you see I notice cracks me up every time. It's clear that you understand humor. When your siblings sit down for dinner at the table you always climb up on a chair to join them, knowing they will start laughing because you are too little to sit there. Only when you are really hungry (which is rare) will you go directly to your highchair. It's amazing how you seem to grow while only eating air (or anything chocolate or sweet). You turn your nose up to: any vegetables, eggs, chicken, hotdogs, pasta. You love to eat: pancakes, applesauce, cereal, chicken nuggets, french fries, cookies, yogurt.
It is so much fun to watch you grow. I can only imagine the skills you will pick up over the next 19 months, and I am looking forward to every day of it. I love you my Charlotte Rose!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Cheating
So, here it is.......and it's just hysterical that I thought the price of oil then was high. Seriously, I'm laughing all the way to my empty checkbook.
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
Energy..where art thou?
Zzzzzzzz.........I must get sleep. Dear children of mine, please, let me sleep. I understand that you like to see my smiling face, but it would be a much bigger smile if it was daylight when you first wake up. This little game of tag in the middle of the night isn't fun for me anymore. Please stop.
We braved the frigid temps yesterday to visit with a friend. I think the high reached 16 degrees; add in the wind chill and it felt like single digits. After having such mild temps in December, this truly bites. Give me sun....give me warmth....winter be gone. Sometimes I think if it's going to be cold, let there be snow. Then I think of the wet gloves, boots, and coats that will be all over my kitchen floor. The "I have to go potty." I'll hear after I get them all bundled up, and well, snow isn't such a wonderful thing, afterall. Just bring me the sun, dammit.
With the weather so cold we're going thru heating oil like....well, like some might go thru chocolate. Not me, of course, but some people eat a lot of chocolate. Our last fill up was 2.5 weeks ago and we got 150 gallons at 2.06 a gallon. Um....I checked today and it's almost on "E". Excuse me? Rumor has it that the price is now back up to 2.22 a gallon. It would probably be cheaper to heat this house on chocolate. Did I mention that I hate winter?
And there you have it.......February 2007 I was crying over 2.06 a gallon. I'd be crying tears of happiness for that price next winter.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
The Return To Blogdom
But this time (Yes, this time!!), it will be different. I will log in daily (eh, aren't I optimistic?) and blog something, anything to keep this thing afloat. This is where I will keep track of all those stellar (and not stellar, as the case may be) moments that have been lost in this old brain of mine. One day I will be able to read to my kids all the funny things they have said and done......and all the times that they added another gray hair to my head.
Today, for instance, they are adding gray hair. I'd much rather add some more laugh lines to this wrinkling old face, but they are deadset on the gray right now. My boys have taken to the age where everything is becoming a competition. Did I mention EVERYTHING? This often turns into fighting (since we can't have two winners now, can we?) and yelling (um.....on their part, not mine. Definitely not mine.) and them being seperated. My wonderfully encouraging husband tells me "It only gets worse!" when I cry to him about our boys turning into such hooligans! He usually then laughs at me, saying they are a far cry from hooligans. *sigh* I hope he's right.
Well, it's finally sunny out today after a weekend of rain and clouds, so I will head out to enjoy it. Tomorrow will be even warmer, but I'll tell you all about that then when I log on to do another post ; )