If you're still out there, I am still going to blog at some point.
My last post talked of my new life as a mom with all my kids at school.
Well....I am homeschooling one of them. It is exciting and awesome and good on so many levels, but right now I am trying to figure out how to:
1. Homeschool (because I've never done this before)
2. Still keep my house kind of clean
3. Still focus on and take care of my other 5 children.
4. Not go crazy.
It's the not going crazy part that's blocking my chi, or whatever.
It's learning how to know that I HAVE to take time everyday to homeschool even when I know there is a pile of laundry, shopping to be done, and appointments to keep. Whaa for me, I know.
I am fortunate that I even can have this as an option. But it is still an adjustment.
So I am aiming to start blogging again for real next week. We've had 4 birthdays and those need celebrating.
Til next week. Thanks for sticking with me:)
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
First day of the rest of my life
It's the first day of the rest of my life.
All of my kids started school today.
Yes, ALL of them. Including Nora.
Henry started 1st grade and will be gone all day every day.
There might have been tears shed this morning.
There might have been a huge sigh as I walked into an empty house for the first time in almost 16 years.
6 hours I have to be alone. To clean the house and have it stay clean if I want. To nap or shop completely by myself.
Sounds awful. I know it will be good. I know that this is the progression of life and all that nonsense. But it SOUNDS awful.
And I miss my children. Already.
But boy were they beautiful this morning. (and you notice, NO RAIN!!!! YEEHAW!)
My little darlings. All of them.
There were quite a few butterflies floating around their stomachs today. First day of high school for 2 of them, first day of middle school for another.
I think my younger 3 were not quite as nervous. After all, they get to go to this school:
It's called the Damman School. Its a little 2 room school house right in the heart of the country where we live. K-2 are in one room, 3-5 are in another. They eat lunch outside every nice day there is. They have an hour for lunch and mid-day recess. Their teachers are out of a story book. Seriously.
There are 47 kids at their school. And I am so excited for them. The school has been around since 1890 and it is a blessing for this mama who is struggling with her kids being gone.
I can eat lunch with them, I can drop in and say high. I can volunteer as much as I want. And they don't have to ride a bus.
We also had our back to school feast and theme last night.
We ate hamburgers and french fries followed by pumpkin cake. It was well received.
I couldn't put vinyl on the walls this year because we are renting. But for our theme this year, we chose a passage from The Family: A proclamation to the world.
"Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. "
Back to school feasts and family themes were inspired by Stephanie Nielson of the NieNiedialogues.
I didn't realize until today that I chose almost the exact same passage as she did. But that's ok. It felt inspired for our family.
We have spent the whole summer just us. Barely any friends. Just my six babies enjoying each other's company.
It's been wonderful. And with a start of a new school year, where everyone will be slowly making friends, those relationships with siblings and parents will be extra important.
So focusing on strengthening our family this year seemed appropriate.
We will take the principles in the passage and have lessons on them for Family Home Evening as the year goes on. Sprinkled with fun, wholesome, family activities.
This summer has flown by. And I'm guessing the next 6 hours will too.
I'm envisioning a sparkling house and yummy after school snack for when they get home today.
And a nap. Yes. Definitely a nap:)
All of my kids started school today.
Yes, ALL of them. Including Nora.
Henry started 1st grade and will be gone all day every day.
There might have been tears shed this morning.
There might have been a huge sigh as I walked into an empty house for the first time in almost 16 years.
6 hours I have to be alone. To clean the house and have it stay clean if I want. To nap or shop completely by myself.
Sounds awful. I know it will be good. I know that this is the progression of life and all that nonsense. But it SOUNDS awful.
And I miss my children. Already.
But boy were they beautiful this morning. (and you notice, NO RAIN!!!! YEEHAW!)
My little darlings. All of them.
There were quite a few butterflies floating around their stomachs today. First day of high school for 2 of them, first day of middle school for another.
I think my younger 3 were not quite as nervous. After all, they get to go to this school:
It's called the Damman School. Its a little 2 room school house right in the heart of the country where we live. K-2 are in one room, 3-5 are in another. They eat lunch outside every nice day there is. They have an hour for lunch and mid-day recess. Their teachers are out of a story book. Seriously.
There are 47 kids at their school. And I am so excited for them. The school has been around since 1890 and it is a blessing for this mama who is struggling with her kids being gone.
I can eat lunch with them, I can drop in and say high. I can volunteer as much as I want. And they don't have to ride a bus.
We also had our back to school feast and theme last night.
We ate hamburgers and french fries followed by pumpkin cake. It was well received.
I couldn't put vinyl on the walls this year because we are renting. But for our theme this year, we chose a passage from The Family: A proclamation to the world.
"Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. "
Back to school feasts and family themes were inspired by Stephanie Nielson of the NieNiedialogues.
I didn't realize until today that I chose almost the exact same passage as she did. But that's ok. It felt inspired for our family.
We have spent the whole summer just us. Barely any friends. Just my six babies enjoying each other's company.
It's been wonderful. And with a start of a new school year, where everyone will be slowly making friends, those relationships with siblings and parents will be extra important.
So focusing on strengthening our family this year seemed appropriate.
We will take the principles in the passage and have lessons on them for Family Home Evening as the year goes on. Sprinkled with fun, wholesome, family activities.
This summer has flown by. And I'm guessing the next 6 hours will too.
I'm envisioning a sparkling house and yummy after school snack for when they get home today.
And a nap. Yes. Definitely a nap:)
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Ode to Summer
Summer has marched on.
Seemingly oblivious to the fact that I don't want it too.
Summer days of sunshine and heat, the lake, bike rides, hay fields and no worries.
School starts in 2 weeks and 1 day. It's never enough time with my children.
So I didn't blog almost at all this summer.
Seemed dumb to waste any time when there was sleeping in to do.
Sporadic visits to the skate park.
Swimming in clear waters.
Saying hello to new friends.
Sunning ourselves on the front porch.
Seeking out new places.
Surprised at how wonderful life can be.
Something for my parents, whom I miss terribly-pictures.
Skittish deer, we have them too. They come, they eat they leave. But with horns.
Skate park shenanigans. No one was injured. Hurray!
Spectacular wind mills up- close and personal.
Simple joys.
Summer almost gone.
Seems like yesterday they got out of school.
Sappy mom.
*sigh*
Seemingly oblivious to the fact that I don't want it too.
Summer days of sunshine and heat, the lake, bike rides, hay fields and no worries.
School starts in 2 weeks and 1 day. It's never enough time with my children.
So I didn't blog almost at all this summer.
Seemed dumb to waste any time when there was sleeping in to do.
Sporadic visits to the skate park.
Swimming in clear waters.
Saying hello to new friends.
Sunning ourselves on the front porch.
Seeking out new places.
Surprised at how wonderful life can be.
Something for my parents, whom I miss terribly-pictures.
Skittish deer, we have them too. They come, they eat they leave. But with horns.
Skate park shenanigans. No one was injured. Hurray!
Spectacular wind mills up- close and personal.
Simple joys.
Summer almost gone.
Seems like yesterday they got out of school.
Sappy mom.
*sigh*
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Time marches on. And now she's 5. *sigh*
I have been avoiding this post.
Why?
Because my sixth child, my sweet little bookend, my blond haired beauty with a sweet temperment and a little lisp is 5 years old.
Oh the humanity!!! (People still say that, right?)
How will I face what this brings? How will I face kindergarten, being alone during the day. Ok, not all days since Jeff works from home 3 days a week. But it's my dramatic moment, so I'm going to forget about that for a second and just say, "Waaaaaa. I'm alone!!!"
Ahem.
Nora turned 5 last week. Surrounded by friends and family. It was really sweet to see her so happy.
She gets genuinely overjoyed at gifts. She's just a tiny bit enthusiastic.
She wanted a Hello Kitty party. I did a kind of tye dyed cake. Not totally on purpose. But she liked it, so that means success!
She blew out all of her candles. She didn't need Julia's help and Julia in fact was not trying to help. She just has a mimicking tick it seems.
What we love about Nora as a 5 year old:
~She will still hug and kiss us almost every time we ask. I say almost cuz she will for me, but not always siblings.
~She adores her brothers and sisters. And they adore her. She is spoiled in a good way, meaning she has so much love and kindness poured on her on a regular basis.
~She skips everywhere she goes. To the bathroom, up to her room, across the lawn. That or running. I love that she hasn't slowed down yet, that there is an adventure around every turn for her still.
~She has a blankie and sucks her fingers still. Yes, I know she is five. But it's still adorable.
~She is gluten intolerant. Something about my pregnancy with her brought this about for both of us. It's a bond we share.
~She has a lisp. It's barely perceptible. But it's so adorable and I really think always will be. Even as an adult if it's still there. It just gives a little lilt to what she says and makes me want to kiss her even more.
~She still loves to help me. She will weed, clean, sweep, whatever I ask. I know I only have another year before that ends, but a mother can hope can't she?
~She was the missing piece to our family. Every person plays a vital, irreplaceable role. Our family would not function right without every one here. And so having her join us completed the whole picture for us.
~She is excited for school and loves her friends. This is good for her so I'm glad. But it is melancholy for this mom who sees that her baby is branching out and doesn't need me exclusively anymore.
All in all, Nora is a gift. As are all my children. Something about my oldest almost 16 and my youngest starting kindergarten has made me really see how little time we have with our kids. 18 years seems like a lot, until you turn around and it's all behind you.
And then it's not enough time.
Nora was just a tiny, pink baby yesterday.
Ahhh, how I miss those days. Even the sleepness night. I'd relive it over in a heartbeat.
But I love the days I have now too. The ones where I hear her thoughts and listen to her singing silly songs and playing with her siblings.
Yes life is good. Even if it has moved way to fast.
But she will always be my baby. They all will be. Forever.
Why?
Because my sixth child, my sweet little bookend, my blond haired beauty with a sweet temperment and a little lisp is 5 years old.
Oh the humanity!!! (People still say that, right?)
How will I face what this brings? How will I face kindergarten, being alone during the day. Ok, not all days since Jeff works from home 3 days a week. But it's my dramatic moment, so I'm going to forget about that for a second and just say, "Waaaaaa. I'm alone!!!"
Ahem.
Nora turned 5 last week. Surrounded by friends and family. It was really sweet to see her so happy.
She gets genuinely overjoyed at gifts. She's just a tiny bit enthusiastic.
She wanted a Hello Kitty party. I did a kind of tye dyed cake. Not totally on purpose. But she liked it, so that means success!
She blew out all of her candles. She didn't need Julia's help and Julia in fact was not trying to help. She just has a mimicking tick it seems.
What we love about Nora as a 5 year old:
~She will still hug and kiss us almost every time we ask. I say almost cuz she will for me, but not always siblings.
~She adores her brothers and sisters. And they adore her. She is spoiled in a good way, meaning she has so much love and kindness poured on her on a regular basis.
~She skips everywhere she goes. To the bathroom, up to her room, across the lawn. That or running. I love that she hasn't slowed down yet, that there is an adventure around every turn for her still.
~She has a blankie and sucks her fingers still. Yes, I know she is five. But it's still adorable.
~She is gluten intolerant. Something about my pregnancy with her brought this about for both of us. It's a bond we share.
~She has a lisp. It's barely perceptible. But it's so adorable and I really think always will be. Even as an adult if it's still there. It just gives a little lilt to what she says and makes me want to kiss her even more.
~She still loves to help me. She will weed, clean, sweep, whatever I ask. I know I only have another year before that ends, but a mother can hope can't she?
~She was the missing piece to our family. Every person plays a vital, irreplaceable role. Our family would not function right without every one here. And so having her join us completed the whole picture for us.
~She is excited for school and loves her friends. This is good for her so I'm glad. But it is melancholy for this mom who sees that her baby is branching out and doesn't need me exclusively anymore.
All in all, Nora is a gift. As are all my children. Something about my oldest almost 16 and my youngest starting kindergarten has made me really see how little time we have with our kids. 18 years seems like a lot, until you turn around and it's all behind you.
And then it's not enough time.
Nora was just a tiny, pink baby yesterday.
Ahhh, how I miss those days. Even the sleepness night. I'd relive it over in a heartbeat.
But I love the days I have now too. The ones where I hear her thoughts and listen to her singing silly songs and playing with her siblings.
Yes life is good. Even if it has moved way to fast.
But she will always be my baby. They all will be. Forever.
Friday, July 12, 2013
It sounds so good to me.......
Since moving to Ellensburg I have taken to going on long walks in the country. Hee hee! That makes me so happy just saying that!
The wind can blow here quite a bit, but I don't mind it. I like the feel of it on my face, and my hair is not too fussy for windy weather. It's not as pleasant in the winter, the wind I mean. But I tend to avoid the outdoors in the winter as much as possible anyway:)
There are a few houses I pass on my route. This one is one of my very favorites.
Even their sign makes me swoon.
It says the Gerrils Haus, if you can't read it. I'm guessing they have German heritage?
I was listening to Pandora as I walked. Tim McGraw channel specifically. And country music puts me in a good mood in general. But I love when the songs I'm listening to match what I'm seeing.
Last week when all the farmers were bringing in their hay, a Jason Aldean song was playing. Part of the lyrics say something about go round and round all day, baling some hay,and stacking it all up.
And yes, there were really guys out in the fields doing that exact thing. Made me really happy.
As I was moseying along, I saw cattails. Yay! It's been forever. I don't know why I like them so much. If their had been pussy willows nearby too, I would have probably brought some home. But no such luck.
And then a Dixie Chicks song came on as I was walking by this.
And I was so caught up in my happy little reverie of "I live in the country!" that it took me a second to hear the lyrics.
"I wanna walk and not run, I wanna skip and not fall.
I wanna look at the horizon and not see a building standing tall
I wanna be the only one, for miles and miles
Except for maybe you and your simple smile
Oh it sound good to me
Yes it sounds so good to me"
She goes on to sing Cowboy take me away.
Jeff is not a cowboy.So I thought of it as "Email Marketer take me away" ;) But he loves me. And he gave me my dreams. I know my dreams were simple: live in the country, have him work from home. But do you know how hard that actually is to achieve? I know that Heavenly Father had a lot to do with everything working out.
But it took a husband willing to go along with it. So as Jeff and I drove up and came upon our house,
(I should really eat breakfast before a 4 mile walk and bring water when it's already 80 degress outside. Which is why it's good Jeff works from home 3 days a week. I called him and he came and got me when I thought I was going to throw up),
I was just filled with love and gratitude.
And to the man who took the chance and loves me more today than he did 17 years ago (today is our anniversary!!!)
I say thank you. Thank you for taking me away, and giving me the world.
(Aren't we babies in this picture?)
The wind can blow here quite a bit, but I don't mind it. I like the feel of it on my face, and my hair is not too fussy for windy weather. It's not as pleasant in the winter, the wind I mean. But I tend to avoid the outdoors in the winter as much as possible anyway:)
There are a few houses I pass on my route. This one is one of my very favorites.
Even their sign makes me swoon.
It says the Gerrils Haus, if you can't read it. I'm guessing they have German heritage?
I was listening to Pandora as I walked. Tim McGraw channel specifically. And country music puts me in a good mood in general. But I love when the songs I'm listening to match what I'm seeing.
Last week when all the farmers were bringing in their hay, a Jason Aldean song was playing. Part of the lyrics say something about go round and round all day, baling some hay,and stacking it all up.
And yes, there were really guys out in the fields doing that exact thing. Made me really happy.
As I was moseying along, I saw cattails. Yay! It's been forever. I don't know why I like them so much. If their had been pussy willows nearby too, I would have probably brought some home. But no such luck.
And then a Dixie Chicks song came on as I was walking by this.
And I was so caught up in my happy little reverie of "I live in the country!" that it took me a second to hear the lyrics.
"I wanna walk and not run, I wanna skip and not fall.
I wanna look at the horizon and not see a building standing tall
I wanna be the only one, for miles and miles
Except for maybe you and your simple smile
Oh it sound good to me
Yes it sounds so good to me"
She goes on to sing Cowboy take me away.
Jeff is not a cowboy.So I thought of it as "Email Marketer take me away" ;) But he loves me. And he gave me my dreams. I know my dreams were simple: live in the country, have him work from home. But do you know how hard that actually is to achieve? I know that Heavenly Father had a lot to do with everything working out.
But it took a husband willing to go along with it. So as Jeff and I drove up and came upon our house,
(I should really eat breakfast before a 4 mile walk and bring water when it's already 80 degress outside. Which is why it's good Jeff works from home 3 days a week. I called him and he came and got me when I thought I was going to throw up),
I was just filled with love and gratitude.
And to the man who took the chance and loves me more today than he did 17 years ago (today is our anniversary!!!)
I say thank you. Thank you for taking me away, and giving me the world.
(Aren't we babies in this picture?)
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Finally
This little man has been waiting and waiting for his first tooth to come out.
In fact, his two front permanent teeth are already in. Ewww.
And his little sister lost two teeth before him. Sad clown.
Dude's almost 7.
So it was with much joy and excitement yesterday when he announced, "Mom! Mom! My tooth came out!"
It's wonderful how happy children can be over simple joys in life.
I want to be like that.
I want to forget about bills and a messy house and yelling children and instead be grateful for all the little things.
Congratulations Henry. What a big boy you are.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
In Progress
I am pretty in love with where we live. But that doesn't solve the constant problem I have of being mentally deranged until everything is in it's place and decorated the way I want.
That said, this is a different house. And I am trying to work in our stuff in a a new space. A smaller space. So far it's going pretty well. But I know me, and so for now I am forcing myself to live with things the way I currently have it. Just until the right ideas kick in.
I am moderately talented at decorating. I know that. I'm not too shabby, but I am not amazing either.
The not amazing part is what annoys the crud out of me. Not entirely my fault since I usually have a budget of about 20 bucks. But I am learning that sometimes good enough = perfect. And yet it doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful. I am trying to remember this as my frustration levels rise when things don't look right to me or don't fit the way I want them to. (Sectional anyone? This is our first one and it doesn't exactly work anywhere you put it, you know?)
We are still unpacking. There are still boxes in some rooms and many things that haven't found their permanent home yet.
But this house is feeling like our home already and I am so grateful for that.
And my boy is growing up. He has been such a help to me here with the yard. As long as we're working side by side he enjoys working. And the riding lawn mower? Pretty much heaven for any boy. Heck, I like driving the thing.
Thanks for going on this journey with us. It's been pretty amazing so far.
That said, this is a different house. And I am trying to work in our stuff in a a new space. A smaller space. So far it's going pretty well. But I know me, and so for now I am forcing myself to live with things the way I currently have it. Just until the right ideas kick in.
I am moderately talented at decorating. I know that. I'm not too shabby, but I am not amazing either.
The not amazing part is what annoys the crud out of me. Not entirely my fault since I usually have a budget of about 20 bucks. But I am learning that sometimes good enough = perfect. And yet it doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful. I am trying to remember this as my frustration levels rise when things don't look right to me or don't fit the way I want them to. (Sectional anyone? This is our first one and it doesn't exactly work anywhere you put it, you know?)
We are still unpacking. There are still boxes in some rooms and many things that haven't found their permanent home yet.
But this house is feeling like our home already and I am so grateful for that.
And my boy is growing up. He has been such a help to me here with the yard. As long as we're working side by side he enjoys working. And the riding lawn mower? Pretty much heaven for any boy. Heck, I like driving the thing.
Thanks for going on this journey with us. It's been pretty amazing so far.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Friends
The hardest part about leaving Maple Valley was not our house or the weather;)
It was our friends. Every single one of us left behind people that we love and cherish.
Every single day my 4 younger kids would ask if they could play with someone. The names Jane, Gavin, Eli, Macy,Kendra, Jenna, Reagan, Mia, Eli, Miles, Nathan, Brendan, Victoria and Connor were spoken almost daily in my house.
Kate and Julia left friends they love as well. Friends that have had tears shed over since we have been here.
But something has occurred that I knew would happen.
Right now my children are each other's only friends.
Our "neighborhood" has 7 houses in it. Each on 3 acres. There are 2 other kids under 10 here.
And we don't know anyone well enough besides our cousins to ask for play dates.
So every day, my kids play together. They make up games, they play tag, run around, use their imaginations and when they are tired, fight over the use of the computer, tablet and my phone.
Is it weird that I love it? Is it weird that I'm cherishing this time before friends are made, when I have them all to myself?
Don't get me wrong, I love their friends. But there is something nice about not being begged daily to go play with someone. To just have them home with me, doing their own thing, interacting with each other, and growing closer because of it.
I want them to have friends, I want them to be happy that way.
I just want their own siblings to be the best friends they will ever have. So far so good.
It was our friends. Every single one of us left behind people that we love and cherish.
Every single day my 4 younger kids would ask if they could play with someone. The names Jane, Gavin, Eli, Macy,Kendra, Jenna, Reagan, Mia, Eli, Miles, Nathan, Brendan, Victoria and Connor were spoken almost daily in my house.
Kate and Julia left friends they love as well. Friends that have had tears shed over since we have been here.
But something has occurred that I knew would happen.
Right now my children are each other's only friends.
Our "neighborhood" has 7 houses in it. Each on 3 acres. There are 2 other kids under 10 here.
And we don't know anyone well enough besides our cousins to ask for play dates.
So every day, my kids play together. They make up games, they play tag, run around, use their imaginations and when they are tired, fight over the use of the computer, tablet and my phone.
Is it weird that I love it? Is it weird that I'm cherishing this time before friends are made, when I have them all to myself?
Don't get me wrong, I love their friends. But there is something nice about not being begged daily to go play with someone. To just have them home with me, doing their own thing, interacting with each other, and growing closer because of it.
I want them to have friends, I want them to be happy that way.
I just want their own siblings to be the best friends they will ever have. So far so good.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Dreams do come true.
So folks, the yellow house fell through.
I am ok with it now, but at the moment I found out, I may have sobbed like a little girl for about half an hour. Or longer.
I was really mad, upset, fussy, disappointed and every other negative emotion you can feel.
Then I remembered the feeling of peace I have had every time I have prayed about moving to Ellensburg.
It took a few days, but I remembered that God has a perfect plan for my life and the life of my family.
And it's not a house that makes a home, it is a family.
But at the stage that the house fell through, we would have to rent for the time being if we wanted a place to live.
And yes we wanted a place to live.
As luck, fate, divine intervention would have it, the perfect rental awaited us. And after being here for 10 days, I am sooo grateful that the yellow house didn't work out. I love where we are. And we have a rent to own option if we decide we love this place. Which so far, we do.
I knew we made the right decision to move to Ellensburg. But it was confirmed when I was driving home and we passed this:
And Nora says, "Hey! Look at that big, brown wood thing!"
"That's a barn Nora." I replied.
"Oh! A baaarrnn!"
Yes, my baby was not aware of what that big, brown wood thing was called. But having now seen about 50 of those just driving around, she knows.
We have loved our first week here. On Saturday we went to the annual Dachsunds on parade. Yes folks, little weiner dogs all dressed up and paraded around. It was awesome.
We then went on a hike, went to the lake, mowed our giant field and discovered a fire pit. All this was on the same day, by the way. Without having to drive 45 minutes to get anywhere, we had lots of time to do actual stuff.
Finally, the weather. The beautiful, glorious, non grey and cloudy weather. It did rain yesterday, but only for 30 minutes. Then the sun came back out.
This was the view this morning on my walk:
More big, brown, wood things in the distance. And the Stuart Mountain Range. And big fluffy clouds. And fields of hay.
*sigh*
I honestly can't remember the last time I felt this good. I have been working in the yard, putting the house together, spending time with my family, and feeling grateful every day for even the simplest of things like driving home. Because it is all so beautiful. There is no train just over the fence to wake us up, and I have a view of the big dipper every night from our front porch.
I'm not bragging. (As my kids would call any declaration of happiness)
I'm just so thankful that the dreams I have held in my little heart have come to fruition. And Seattle and the friends and family that it holds is only an hour and a half away. A day trip to see the ocean, or visit downtown, or see people I love.
And then I get to come home to watch the sun set from my front porch.
I am a happy girl indeed. I don't know yet why Heavenly Father has directed us here. But I am so thankful for everything we have experienced so far. And I can't wait to see what else is in store.
I am ok with it now, but at the moment I found out, I may have sobbed like a little girl for about half an hour. Or longer.
I was really mad, upset, fussy, disappointed and every other negative emotion you can feel.
Then I remembered the feeling of peace I have had every time I have prayed about moving to Ellensburg.
It took a few days, but I remembered that God has a perfect plan for my life and the life of my family.
And it's not a house that makes a home, it is a family.
But at the stage that the house fell through, we would have to rent for the time being if we wanted a place to live.
And yes we wanted a place to live.
As luck, fate, divine intervention would have it, the perfect rental awaited us. And after being here for 10 days, I am sooo grateful that the yellow house didn't work out. I love where we are. And we have a rent to own option if we decide we love this place. Which so far, we do.
I knew we made the right decision to move to Ellensburg. But it was confirmed when I was driving home and we passed this:
And Nora says, "Hey! Look at that big, brown wood thing!"
"That's a barn Nora." I replied.
"Oh! A baaarrnn!"
Yes, my baby was not aware of what that big, brown wood thing was called. But having now seen about 50 of those just driving around, she knows.
We have loved our first week here. On Saturday we went to the annual Dachsunds on parade. Yes folks, little weiner dogs all dressed up and paraded around. It was awesome.
We then went on a hike, went to the lake, mowed our giant field and discovered a fire pit. All this was on the same day, by the way. Without having to drive 45 minutes to get anywhere, we had lots of time to do actual stuff.
Finally, the weather. The beautiful, glorious, non grey and cloudy weather. It did rain yesterday, but only for 30 minutes. Then the sun came back out.
This was the view this morning on my walk:
More big, brown, wood things in the distance. And the Stuart Mountain Range. And big fluffy clouds. And fields of hay.
*sigh*
I honestly can't remember the last time I felt this good. I have been working in the yard, putting the house together, spending time with my family, and feeling grateful every day for even the simplest of things like driving home. Because it is all so beautiful. There is no train just over the fence to wake us up, and I have a view of the big dipper every night from our front porch.
I'm not bragging. (As my kids would call any declaration of happiness)
I'm just so thankful that the dreams I have held in my little heart have come to fruition. And Seattle and the friends and family that it holds is only an hour and a half away. A day trip to see the ocean, or visit downtown, or see people I love.
And then I get to come home to watch the sun set from my front porch.
I am a happy girl indeed. I don't know yet why Heavenly Father has directed us here. But I am so thankful for everything we have experienced so far. And I can't wait to see what else is in store.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Monday, May 27, 2013
Homeless
This was our house on the last day.
I did in fact cry. More than once. While the men from church loaded the truck and our good friend Damon reminisced and made me cry. And then while we finished the last cleaning and my bestie Michele let me cry on her shoulder. Kate and Julia cried on each other's shoulders. The younger kids didn't cry because we wisely had them playing at their friends houses during this part.
And then Jeff had an allergic reaction to something in the garage and his face got so puffy that he looked like a lion for 3 days. But he didn't cry. He might have felt bad after Henry saw his eyes though and asked, "Dad, will you put your sunglasses back on?" He was freaky looking, I gotta say.
So now we are officially homeless. Without a home. Without a permanent residence. Not without a place to stay thanks to family while we wait on our yellow house, WillowBrook at Bountiful Acres, to come through.
It is a strange feeling, not having a place to move our stuff into. Living out of suitcases and on air mattresses. Thankfully for two weeks we are staying in my brother's house until they get back from living half way across the country. There is a Balm in Gilead because my children know this house so well and have had no problems going to sleep. It has made this weird transition much nicer. Thank you Keno and Amy!
And then after that? Stay at my sisters for a little bit, stay with my loving in-laws for a bit. They kindly offered to let us stay there for as long as we need while we wait for our house.
And I know we are not really homeless. We are fortunate to have family to let us stay with them and the means to find somewhere else to live if our dream home doesn't pan out. (which it will). So know that I am not comparing myself to others who truly are homeless.
I told my children that as long as we are a family, we are never without a home. Home is where your family is-so your car, a hotel, a family members house-all home if we are together.
I also told them, which I know they hated, that happiness is a choice. That having stuff and things to entertain us is not what true happiness is. That we can choose to be happy over being miserable. And why would anyone choose misery over happiness? Maybe it's easier to let that feeling creep into your heart instead of showing faith and working hard to be grateful and joyous for all that we do have. I'm sure it is. But I wasn't raised to be lazy.
Plus, I like the adventure. It's a little disorienting, but at the same time exciting to not know what's going to happen. To just live, in faith and trust that God knows us and has a perfect plan for us.
The Savior himself was homeless at one point. Born in a manger. Yet He lived with perfect joy, serving others, bringing about a righteous purpose and saving all mankind.
And all I have to do is keep my chin up and find joy in my family and in the beautiful life that I have?
Done:)
I did in fact cry. More than once. While the men from church loaded the truck and our good friend Damon reminisced and made me cry. And then while we finished the last cleaning and my bestie Michele let me cry on her shoulder. Kate and Julia cried on each other's shoulders. The younger kids didn't cry because we wisely had them playing at their friends houses during this part.
And then Jeff had an allergic reaction to something in the garage and his face got so puffy that he looked like a lion for 3 days. But he didn't cry. He might have felt bad after Henry saw his eyes though and asked, "Dad, will you put your sunglasses back on?" He was freaky looking, I gotta say.
So now we are officially homeless. Without a home. Without a permanent residence. Not without a place to stay thanks to family while we wait on our yellow house, WillowBrook at Bountiful Acres, to come through.
It is a strange feeling, not having a place to move our stuff into. Living out of suitcases and on air mattresses. Thankfully for two weeks we are staying in my brother's house until they get back from living half way across the country. There is a Balm in Gilead because my children know this house so well and have had no problems going to sleep. It has made this weird transition much nicer. Thank you Keno and Amy!
And then after that? Stay at my sisters for a little bit, stay with my loving in-laws for a bit. They kindly offered to let us stay there for as long as we need while we wait for our house.
And I know we are not really homeless. We are fortunate to have family to let us stay with them and the means to find somewhere else to live if our dream home doesn't pan out. (which it will). So know that I am not comparing myself to others who truly are homeless.
I told my children that as long as we are a family, we are never without a home. Home is where your family is-so your car, a hotel, a family members house-all home if we are together.
I also told them, which I know they hated, that happiness is a choice. That having stuff and things to entertain us is not what true happiness is. That we can choose to be happy over being miserable. And why would anyone choose misery over happiness? Maybe it's easier to let that feeling creep into your heart instead of showing faith and working hard to be grateful and joyous for all that we do have. I'm sure it is. But I wasn't raised to be lazy.
Plus, I like the adventure. It's a little disorienting, but at the same time exciting to not know what's going to happen. To just live, in faith and trust that God knows us and has a perfect plan for us.
The Savior himself was homeless at one point. Born in a manger. Yet He lived with perfect joy, serving others, bringing about a righteous purpose and saving all mankind.
And all I have to do is keep my chin up and find joy in my family and in the beautiful life that I have?
Done:)
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Turn that frown upside down
I'm reposting this from a few years ago. It still applies and especially today when we are about to leave our house. Enjoy:)
Turn that frown upside down
On days when you feel like this:
Or this:
What do you do to change it to this?
And this:
For me it helps when the sun is shining, and I have a splendid walk with kiddies in tow. And being able to enjoy the day at home without anywhere to go is helpful as well.
Other things that help:
1. diet coke
2. chocolate
3. being down a few pounds
4. date night
5. other people's babies
6. a clean kitchen
7. all the laundry done
8. money in the bank
9. fresh homemade bread
10. sleeping in
11. new clothes
12. shopping
13. redecorating
14. warm chocolate chip cookies
15. a great book
16. a great church meeting
17. a bubble bath with candles and a good book...alone!
18. family movie parties
19. my kids telling me they love me
20. my husband's arms around me
What does your list look like?
Or this:
What do you do to change it to this?
And this:
For me it helps when the sun is shining, and I have a splendid walk with kiddies in tow. And being able to enjoy the day at home without anywhere to go is helpful as well.
Other things that help:
1. diet coke
2. chocolate
3. being down a few pounds
4. date night
5. other people's babies
6. a clean kitchen
7. all the laundry done
8. money in the bank
9. fresh homemade bread
10. sleeping in
11. new clothes
12. shopping
13. redecorating
14. warm chocolate chip cookies
15. a great book
16. a great church meeting
17. a bubble bath with candles and a good book...alone!
18. family movie parties
19. my kids telling me they love me
20. my husband's arms around me
What does your list look like?
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Moving day
It's load the truck day around these parts. Bittersweet. Seeing our lives and memories packed up. Thinking of all the hopes and dreams that came with buying this house.
I'm happy and optimistic for the future, but the past and present are haunting me at the moment. Just a little.
We have lived in this house for 5 years. That is a record for us. I potty trained two children in this house. Watched Nora take her first steps here. Witnessed two girls become young women. Watched Henry learn to ride a bike here. Saw Charlie stand up for other people in this neighborhood. Watched Anne Marie start kindergarten.
It's been a whirlwind and a HUGE growing experience. But it is time to say goodbye.
The room that changed more than once (wait, EVERY room in my house is like that:)
The maze of boxes outside my bedroom door.
And the room where so much love was made. Not just that kind sillies. Children climbing into bed in the middle of the night. Late night talks with our older children. Scripture reading and prayer as a family. Locking the doors to wrap a pile of Christmas presents. That kind of love as well.
There is so much awaiting us with our next adventure. And the best part is that anywhere we live is just a house. The contents are what makes it our home. The love we share as a family is what makes it a soft place to land at the end of every kind of day you can imagine.
And that is something we can take with us.
I'm happy and optimistic for the future, but the past and present are haunting me at the moment. Just a little.
We have lived in this house for 5 years. That is a record for us. I potty trained two children in this house. Watched Nora take her first steps here. Witnessed two girls become young women. Watched Henry learn to ride a bike here. Saw Charlie stand up for other people in this neighborhood. Watched Anne Marie start kindergarten.
It's been a whirlwind and a HUGE growing experience. But it is time to say goodbye.
The room that changed more than once (wait, EVERY room in my house is like that:)
The maze of boxes outside my bedroom door.
And the room where so much love was made. Not just that kind sillies. Children climbing into bed in the middle of the night. Late night talks with our older children. Scripture reading and prayer as a family. Locking the doors to wrap a pile of Christmas presents. That kind of love as well.
There is so much awaiting us with our next adventure. And the best part is that anywhere we live is just a house. The contents are what makes it our home. The love we share as a family is what makes it a soft place to land at the end of every kind of day you can imagine.
And that is something we can take with us.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Priorities
We had a pretty amazing evening last night. For about a week I've been asking Henry if he wants to learn to ride without his training wheels. He needed some time to think about it.
Last night I asked him again, and he said, yes.
Honestly, we are sooo busy right now trying to pack our house and get ready for a final walk through today, but the second he said yes, none of that mattered.
Jeff came out, took off the training wheels, and I kid you not, in three passes Henry was riding all by himself!
We were so excited! Jeff ran in to tell the other kids that Henry was riding without training wheels. They all came running out immediately and watched him. And then clapped and clapped!
I love my family and how supportive they are of each other.
And we will get everything packed and it will be fine. Today was priceless.
Last night I asked him again, and he said, yes.
Honestly, we are sooo busy right now trying to pack our house and get ready for a final walk through today, but the second he said yes, none of that mattered.
Jeff came out, took off the training wheels, and I kid you not, in three passes Henry was riding all by himself!
We were so excited! Jeff ran in to tell the other kids that Henry was riding without training wheels. They all came running out immediately and watched him. And then clapped and clapped!
I love my family and how supportive they are of each other.
And we will get everything packed and it will be fine. Today was priceless.
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