Sunday, January 24, 2010
Saturday, January 23, 2010
School is in Session
The winter break is over not from winter but from school. Except for a snow day, the kids are back in school. I am also back in school. I do not get any snow days either. Clint suggested, and I agreed that perhaps the timing is right that I go back to college to finish my Elementary Education degree.
I am using one of the local community colleges in the area. Since Eric is still at home all of my classes this semester are strictly online classes. It saves on childcare costs as well as gas and travel time. That option, online classes, wasn't available when I was first pursuing my degree. Maybe if it had been, I would already have my degree. I think it is better now though while I am busier with life and family, I am more responsible and like to think mature. The kiddos remind me on occasion that I am not which is usually after pulling some prank.
I have finished my first week. So far so good as my homework has been turned in already. Most was due tomorrow (Sunday), but I wanted to keep that day for church and family. One assignment (Intro to Psychology) received full marks plus an extra credit point. The other while not graded received good remarks from the teacher. It was for Intro to Art and was a self-portrait box (pictures below). I am also in a Political Science class.
I enjoy the art class so far and find the political science class interesting. The psychology class is by far the hardest. I make sure I do that class reading in the morning after I have woken up a bit. I was nervous being the oldest student or being too dumb. I don't know if I am the oldest, but I am not the only mother in my classes or education major. Hopefully the success of the first week will keep me going. I am just wondering how I am going to handle Spring Break as the children's break is not the same time as mine. I am pushing for my own laptop but so far have been told to keep wishing.
My first art project --
I am using one of the local community colleges in the area. Since Eric is still at home all of my classes this semester are strictly online classes. It saves on childcare costs as well as gas and travel time. That option, online classes, wasn't available when I was first pursuing my degree. Maybe if it had been, I would already have my degree. I think it is better now though while I am busier with life and family, I am more responsible and like to think mature. The kiddos remind me on occasion that I am not which is usually after pulling some prank.
I have finished my first week. So far so good as my homework has been turned in already. Most was due tomorrow (Sunday), but I wanted to keep that day for church and family. One assignment (Intro to Psychology) received full marks plus an extra credit point. The other while not graded received good remarks from the teacher. It was for Intro to Art and was a self-portrait box (pictures below). I am also in a Political Science class.
I enjoy the art class so far and find the political science class interesting. The psychology class is by far the hardest. I make sure I do that class reading in the morning after I have woken up a bit. I was nervous being the oldest student or being too dumb. I don't know if I am the oldest, but I am not the only mother in my classes or education major. Hopefully the success of the first week will keep me going. I am just wondering how I am going to handle Spring Break as the children's break is not the same time as mine. I am pushing for my own laptop but so far have been told to keep wishing.
My first art project --
Sunday, January 17, 2010
2010: The Year of Repairs
Just over two weeks into the new and I am ready to scream, "DO OVER!" The joys and blessings of owning a home have allowed us to pay for furnance and dryer repairs, buy a new dishwasher and now septic tank repair.
The dryer was dying when the furnace and dishwasher decided to break on the same day. We do not live in a warm climate like Arizona or Hawaii. We do have friends with space heaters, plenty of quilts and a fireplace to ward off the chill. The furnance was repaired (new blower motor). The dishwasher was pronounced DOA (burnt out washer motor that would cost as much to repair as a new model). The first dryer repair (DYI) was some help but not much. The second fixed the problem. I think I am helping pay for the appliance repairman's daughter's wedding. Oh yeah, I had to buy a new toaster too that week.
Yesterday started with a flat tire on the van. It was discoverd after I tried to back it out of the driveway and got it stuck on the ice. It culminated into a broken stereo with the library's CDs stuck in it. The climax was this morning when it was discovered the septic tank had backflowed into our basement. ICK! The huge electric because of 3 hour drying time or constantly on dishwashers or even really cold temperatures did not help cheer our spirits.
Blessings, blessings, there's got to be blessings in all this. I know there has to be blessings.
1. I love my new dishwasher. It is sooo cool. It was also on sale and a cheaper price we found was matched (savings equaling over $200) plus it was the last one in stock so we were able to take it home that day.
2. I paid $5.79 for a new toaster thanks to a gift certificate and free shipping.
3. The furnance was repaired the day before the snowstorm and following negative degree temperatures.
4. We had friends offering us a place to stay as well as space heaters. Also we do have a second furnance upstairs so there was a place to warm ourselves while watching some good movies.
5. The flat tire was discovered at home and not as a blow out or out while driving.
6. We have a camping potty in our trailer to use as a toilet plus a outdoor port-a-potty at the park behind our house (not to mention lots of trees).
7. Thank goodness for equal pay so we can slowly pay off the electric/gas bill.
8. We haven't lost electricity in addition to lack of ability to flush or use the sinks.
*Knock on Wood* for that last one.
Yeah, it could be worse. It could be so much worse. It just seems to be overwhleming paying for all these repairs on top on my tuition right now when there are no raises or incentive pay for employees at Clint's company. At least he is still employed!
Here's hoping that this year has done it's time coming in like a lion and now it can be a lamb. Studying Psychology this semester doesn't seem very lamb-like though.
The dryer was dying when the furnace and dishwasher decided to break on the same day. We do not live in a warm climate like Arizona or Hawaii. We do have friends with space heaters, plenty of quilts and a fireplace to ward off the chill. The furnance was repaired (new blower motor). The dishwasher was pronounced DOA (burnt out washer motor that would cost as much to repair as a new model). The first dryer repair (DYI) was some help but not much. The second fixed the problem. I think I am helping pay for the appliance repairman's daughter's wedding. Oh yeah, I had to buy a new toaster too that week.
Yesterday started with a flat tire on the van. It was discoverd after I tried to back it out of the driveway and got it stuck on the ice. It culminated into a broken stereo with the library's CDs stuck in it. The climax was this morning when it was discovered the septic tank had backflowed into our basement. ICK! The huge electric because of 3 hour drying time or constantly on dishwashers or even really cold temperatures did not help cheer our spirits.
Blessings, blessings, there's got to be blessings in all this. I know there has to be blessings.
1. I love my new dishwasher. It is sooo cool. It was also on sale and a cheaper price we found was matched (savings equaling over $200) plus it was the last one in stock so we were able to take it home that day.
2. I paid $5.79 for a new toaster thanks to a gift certificate and free shipping.
3. The furnance was repaired the day before the snowstorm and following negative degree temperatures.
4. We had friends offering us a place to stay as well as space heaters. Also we do have a second furnance upstairs so there was a place to warm ourselves while watching some good movies.
5. The flat tire was discovered at home and not as a blow out or out while driving.
6. We have a camping potty in our trailer to use as a toilet plus a outdoor port-a-potty at the park behind our house (not to mention lots of trees).
7. Thank goodness for equal pay so we can slowly pay off the electric/gas bill.
8. We haven't lost electricity in addition to lack of ability to flush or use the sinks.
*Knock on Wood* for that last one.
Yeah, it could be worse. It could be so much worse. It just seems to be overwhleming paying for all these repairs on top on my tuition right now when there are no raises or incentive pay for employees at Clint's company. At least he is still employed!
Here's hoping that this year has done it's time coming in like a lion and now it can be a lamb. Studying Psychology this semester doesn't seem very lamb-like though.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Zeke
I have enjoyed watching the different relationship dynamics since having Zeke. Since we have had some super cold weather as of late, Zeke has been inside so it makes watching him more fun. His antics are funny as he not the most graceful dog. His ear has a habit of turning inside out giving him a lopsided look. He loves the outdoors, and I think the snow is his favorite. He just runs and bounds through with a doggy grin on his face. The outdoors only comes in second to being with his family. We are glad to have saved him from the shelter as he brings us much laughter.
Zeke has a different relationship with each family member. Take me for instance, Zeke is just like my children, I swear. I am the Alpha, the one in charge and the disciplinarian. When Zeke is doing something wrong, I am usually the one that punishes him. What is funny is when I haven't caught him in a no-no situation, but he will see me and start running away. Zeke will keep out of my reach or hide behind another family member when he knows he is in trouble. The dog acts guilty even if not caught (just like my kids). It is not all fear as Zeke does find me me a suitable companion albeit boring sometimes.
Kalynne is the caretaker, and Zeke adores her. He knows she is a pushover. She is his playmate and whimpers when she leaves his sight. It makes going to the bathroom or even piano practice difficult for Kaly.
Clint is Zeke's buddy and best friend. Both Zeke and Eric wait at the door to greet Clint when they see his car drive up. It is hard to tell who is more excited. Clint is pretty enamored himself and loves having Zeke.
Charissa is the one who rough-houses with Zeke. He loves wrestling with her, and it is quite funny to watch. To knock down his opponent Zeke jumps at and hits them broadside. Also Zeke doesn't fight fair if he is losing and goes for the toes. That hurts!
Eric and Zeke are quite the duo. Eric loves Zeke while Zeke tolerates him. The only incident was when Zeke nipped Eric on the lip. Eric was repeatedly poking Zeke in the eye. A poor dog can take only so much. Zeke knew he was in major trouble when he did it. Zeke has come to the understanding that Eric is not low man on the totem pole here. Now to solve the being contstantly bothered, Zeke has learned a method that is acceptable. He nibbles (lips only) Eric's toes or fingers. That grosses Eric out and stops the annoying action.
I witnessed it when Eric was holding on to the tip of Zeke's tail following Zeke around. Zeke tired of the game quickly and nibbled Eric's fingers to stop the game. Zeke does give Eric kisses and once Eric realizes whiskers are not meant to be pulled, perhaps Zeke will not run from Eric so much. There are times Zeke looks so worn out from entertaining and avoiding Eric. I think he is almost begging to be locked in the crate to be able to sleep. I can so sympathize, Zeke!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
And just when life slows down...
I don't think life in this household ever stops. If you fall off, you just have run and try to jump back on. Summer is over, and the first term of school has been wrapped up. Soccer season ended this weekend at least until Spring. Cross Country is over (Jana did that). Life is starting to take a manageable pace or as manageable as it can with 8 kiddos and their activities as well as mine and Clint's.
Clint's activities are going to change a bit. At church he will now be serving as the Stake Young Men's President. It looks like stake youth dances are going to be re-added to our cheap date nights. Clint says that he and I do the same job now -- Nursery Leader. Hahahaha!
I still work in the nursery at church. I enjoy it, and the kids are really set to the routine. I can leave the door open and not have any escapees or distraught children if a parent walks by. That is the biggest accomplishment. I am still the PTO President at the elementary school too. I get to add one more hat though come Spring. I will also be a college student. I am going to the community college here for an Associate in Arts & Science to transfer to a 4-year college. I then will pursue an Early Childhood Education Degree.
It is something I have always wanted to be. It will be done at a pace so not to add any real hardship to my family. I am hoping that by the time that the kids start becoming college students and missionaries that I will have my degree. Eric will be in school too. I can then substitute teach at the kids' school (or area schools) to get my foot in the door. If needs be, I can get a job at the kids' school when the position opens up. That way I can be near my kids and on the same schedule. It always pays to be prepared at least.
I ought to get our pictures posted from our summer and other trips. I guess life hasn't slowed down that much.
Clint's activities are going to change a bit. At church he will now be serving as the Stake Young Men's President. It looks like stake youth dances are going to be re-added to our cheap date nights. Clint says that he and I do the same job now -- Nursery Leader. Hahahaha!
I still work in the nursery at church. I enjoy it, and the kids are really set to the routine. I can leave the door open and not have any escapees or distraught children if a parent walks by. That is the biggest accomplishment. I am still the PTO President at the elementary school too. I get to add one more hat though come Spring. I will also be a college student. I am going to the community college here for an Associate in Arts & Science to transfer to a 4-year college. I then will pursue an Early Childhood Education Degree.
It is something I have always wanted to be. It will be done at a pace so not to add any real hardship to my family. I am hoping that by the time that the kids start becoming college students and missionaries that I will have my degree. Eric will be in school too. I can then substitute teach at the kids' school (or area schools) to get my foot in the door. If needs be, I can get a job at the kids' school when the position opens up. That way I can be near my kids and on the same schedule. It always pays to be prepared at least.
I ought to get our pictures posted from our summer and other trips. I guess life hasn't slowed down that much.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
SURPRISE!
Our family will be growing. No, not that way ... sort of. We are hosting an exchange student for the 20099-2010 school year. Our information packet arrived this week. I guess there was no criminal records found and our references were nice. Gotta remember to mail them the check.
Her name is Jana. She will be 17 this month and currently lives in Germany. She shares a lot of common interests with us like love of reading, music and nature. That is good because other things like family size are different than with what she is aquainted. She has just one brother and lives in apartments so even the large house in the country will be different.
We have already exchanged a couple of e-mails as we try to get to know her more, answer questions and let her get to know us. I think it will be a good experience for all of us. We are impressed with what we know so far about Jana. And what is one mouth mouth and body around here?
Her name is Jana. She will be 17 this month and currently lives in Germany. She shares a lot of common interests with us like love of reading, music and nature. That is good because other things like family size are different than with what she is aquainted. She has just one brother and lives in apartments so even the large house in the country will be different.
We have already exchanged a couple of e-mails as we try to get to know her more, answer questions and let her get to know us. I think it will be a good experience for all of us. We are impressed with what we know so far about Jana. And what is one mouth mouth and body around here?
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Life Happens
Geez, it has been a while since I posted anything. There has been plenty going on though, mundane along with the not so mundane. Where to begin?
The weather can't decide if it wants to be Spring or Winter. I am just glad for our new sump what with the rain and thawing we have been having. It has most likely saved us a few wet floors in the basement. Thank goodness for tax refunds that can pay for it too.
Thank goodness for tax refunds that can cover the loss of income from a temporary lay-off too. All those kids and deductions can come in handy. It seems that Clint gets to take a week off of work and not be paid for it. It most likely will be two, but at least it won't be back-to-back ... sort of. The first one is at the end of March. We had just bought a trip to Branson for a 15th anniversary get-away. We were going to take it when the kids had Spring Break. We are going to go when Clint doesn't have to work now. We found a sitter and made our reservations. Something good besides the enormous amount of yard clean-up has to happen that week.
We also bought a porch swing. We have only been here 6 years. We finally found the right one. We ordered it, and it will be ready in time for Mother's Day. You know where to find me (with my nose in a book) this summer.
Eric is quite the chatterbox now. He has plenty of examples around here. He can say school (when he sees the bus come and the kids get on). There is thank you, welcome, bye-bye, night, and what's that? as well. Oh, I am "mom" now unless Eric is showing his imp-ish sense of humor. Then he goes around the house calling every dad and just laughing about it. I get "What!?" when I call his name. That is also due to the plenty of examples around here. I heard him say stuck the other day as well. He can also say Charissa's and Kaly's names or at least an understandable variation.
I am surprised I don't hear stuck more often as Eric is a climber. I am always have to rescue him. He loves water too. Toilet seats have to stay down and bath tubs emptied. I found out the hard way about the tubs when I found towels, blankets, clothes, toys, and a couple of pillows thrown in the water.
Scholastic Bowl season is wrapping up. Charissa did well as JV captain. Kalynne has her last meet this coming week. both girls love it and earn their team plenty of points.
Oren didn't make it to state for his National Geographic Geography Bee. The poor kid was so heartbroken. He studied really hard too. We are all smarter now, because he shared all his information with us.
Joanna busted her chin open in PE a couple of weeks ago. It is to match the back of her head, I guess. She also was out this past week for three days with a bug that just made you feel yucky and lethargic with a low grade fever.
Jonathan had Pinewood Derby last month but didn't win any races. He was so bummed, and then broke his trophy since he won a specialty category. It was just not his night. He is looking forward to summer camp so I better get him signed-up!
Cara has stayed free of injury, illness and disappointment unless you count having been made to practice piano. She is struggling with that right now. I get to teach her as her dad is about as exasperated as she is.
I am staying busy with PTO (finished one project last week and moving on to the next, a fundraiser next week). Church keeps me going too. What with my responisibilities, the activities and everyone else's responsibilities and activities ... ugh! Okay, it is not bad just busy. I also pamper myself by working out three times a week. I started attending Curves. So far the effort has paid off with 11.5 pounds and 14 total inches lost. The photo from Thanksgiving was motivation and a shocker about how I let the weight creep back on again. I actually enjoy exercise or maybe it is the me time. A friend watches Eric 2 hours twice a week so I can workout and run errands during the week. I also go Saturday mornings. I try to squeeze in walks the other days. hopefully the weather will decide on sunny spring days so it is possible.
Now I better get to bed. I just realized I had typed this entire rambling news bit in my cooking blog. Thank goodness for copy and paste!
The weather can't decide if it wants to be Spring or Winter. I am just glad for our new sump what with the rain and thawing we have been having. It has most likely saved us a few wet floors in the basement. Thank goodness for tax refunds that can pay for it too.
Thank goodness for tax refunds that can cover the loss of income from a temporary lay-off too. All those kids and deductions can come in handy. It seems that Clint gets to take a week off of work and not be paid for it. It most likely will be two, but at least it won't be back-to-back ... sort of. The first one is at the end of March. We had just bought a trip to Branson for a 15th anniversary get-away. We were going to take it when the kids had Spring Break. We are going to go when Clint doesn't have to work now. We found a sitter and made our reservations. Something good besides the enormous amount of yard clean-up has to happen that week.
We also bought a porch swing. We have only been here 6 years. We finally found the right one. We ordered it, and it will be ready in time for Mother's Day. You know where to find me (with my nose in a book) this summer.
Eric is quite the chatterbox now. He has plenty of examples around here. He can say school (when he sees the bus come and the kids get on). There is thank you, welcome, bye-bye, night, and what's that? as well. Oh, I am "mom" now unless Eric is showing his imp-ish sense of humor. Then he goes around the house calling every dad and just laughing about it. I get "What!?" when I call his name. That is also due to the plenty of examples around here. I heard him say stuck the other day as well. He can also say Charissa's and Kaly's names or at least an understandable variation.
I am surprised I don't hear stuck more often as Eric is a climber. I am always have to rescue him. He loves water too. Toilet seats have to stay down and bath tubs emptied. I found out the hard way about the tubs when I found towels, blankets, clothes, toys, and a couple of pillows thrown in the water.
Scholastic Bowl season is wrapping up. Charissa did well as JV captain. Kalynne has her last meet this coming week. both girls love it and earn their team plenty of points.
Oren didn't make it to state for his National Geographic Geography Bee. The poor kid was so heartbroken. He studied really hard too. We are all smarter now, because he shared all his information with us.
Joanna busted her chin open in PE a couple of weeks ago. It is to match the back of her head, I guess. She also was out this past week for three days with a bug that just made you feel yucky and lethargic with a low grade fever.
Jonathan had Pinewood Derby last month but didn't win any races. He was so bummed, and then broke his trophy since he won a specialty category. It was just not his night. He is looking forward to summer camp so I better get him signed-up!
Cara has stayed free of injury, illness and disappointment unless you count having been made to practice piano. She is struggling with that right now. I get to teach her as her dad is about as exasperated as she is.
I am staying busy with PTO (finished one project last week and moving on to the next, a fundraiser next week). Church keeps me going too. What with my responisibilities, the activities and everyone else's responsibilities and activities ... ugh! Okay, it is not bad just busy. I also pamper myself by working out three times a week. I started attending Curves. So far the effort has paid off with 11.5 pounds and 14 total inches lost. The photo from Thanksgiving was motivation and a shocker about how I let the weight creep back on again. I actually enjoy exercise or maybe it is the me time. A friend watches Eric 2 hours twice a week so I can workout and run errands during the week. I also go Saturday mornings. I try to squeeze in walks the other days. hopefully the weather will decide on sunny spring days so it is possible.
Now I better get to bed. I just realized I had typed this entire rambling news bit in my cooking blog. Thank goodness for copy and paste!
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