Week 7

Kk remarked there are no current pictures of mommy. Kk helped me take a photo for you! Kk suggested I use my very best model pose. Hence the puckered lips. 

February 13: Now that everyone is back at school it was a day of Valentine prepping... today mommy did a lot of Valentiny stuff...I crafted... I created... I made a mess... I cleaned it up... I rested too. I even made daddy a special Valentine. I know he'll love it. I cannot wait to decorate the dining room for you both tonight long after you're sleeping soundly. My plans include balloons, pink streamers, an some other little tid-bits! We have only a three day week this school week; no school Monday because of a snow day and no school Friday because of Mid-Winter break. Next week will bring another 4 day week; no school Monday again for Mid-Winter break. I will be honest with you; mommy is really excited to have you home with me for 4 days in a row! I have big plans for us... I think I'm going to blow off my dentist appointment on Friday and we're going to do something fun. I can go to the dentist anytime -- especially when you're in school. I think that we should either craft...or go to lunch...or just play some games.

February 14: Well, Happy Birthday Auntie Angela!

Grace made baby Moo a valentine which reads, "I love you Moo. You are so cute and Grama think so too. Love Mommy"

The beautiful Valentine morning decor that you didn't get to enjoy.

The Valentine Donuts.

 

The Valentine shirts you each made. This is Gg's.

This is Kk's Valentine's shirt. <> it!

The Teacher Valentine filled with Chocolate Hearts

Ah... Valentine's Day... hearts dripping from everything. Love is in the air. Roses are plentiful in the stores. The famous heart shaped chocolates line the shelves. There's "romantical" (yep it's a word ask Gg) music plays softly in the background...well, it's more of a Valentine's or Bust here in the Sassy House... 2 sick kids (G-103.5 fever, K-puking) equals no school. It's 9 a.m. and it's the first time I've sat down since I woke up at 6:30 a.m. I have spent the morning stroking heads...cleaning up puke...getting tylenol...cleaning out puke bucket...making hands extra cold and stroking heads (while standing not sitting because trying to get up off the couch is hard on the leg and I had to be on guard for more puking)... After listening to Kk complain about how hungry she is I finally gave in and let her have some saltines. She wanted the Valentine donuts but that's not really a great idea right after puking. I'm thinking I'm going to regret letting G have hers (but the poor kid was starving - she only ate a yogurt and bread yesterday). I wanted her to have crackers but she said that the donut sounded good... so I figure why not; it's Valentine's day. To a mommy of sick kids; it's just a more lovey day spent doing her job. Even though you're sick; I gotta say, I loved spending the day with you. If you had been healthy, I would have been alone all day, this secretly made me happy a tiny bit in my heart. Not only did I get you home but I also got to snuggle with you both and I loved that even more. You all brightened the gloomy'ish day too,  you picked me out a beautiful angel necklace from daddy & you hoolies - I love it.

Poor G: head hurts too.

Mommy may regret that decision later.

Sicky Kk. Darn germs!

My pretty angel necklace.

So last night mommy got really fancy and decked out the table for you both... neither really seemed too interested; which I don't blame you because you feel terrible. I understand. I have pictures. I moved your Valentiney stuff to the living room on tv trays so you both can have it near you while you rest and recoup. I found these cute little boy cut heart undies, daddy found you each a back scratcher (which we put on there; We're itching to be your Valentine!), there were suckers and last but not least a color me calender. Kk's were Disney Pixies and Gg's was Disney Princesses. You both liked everything and I know when you're feeling better you'll want to use the stuff. My poor sick girls. I love you. I hope that we are on the upswing of the illnesses now. xoxo

Gramma Sandee popped over with a Valentine to snuggle -- Grampa Bob and Gramma Sandee bought you each a Lalaloopsy pillow and heart sucker. Gramma Sandee didn't come in but she did send you hugs and kisses too. You both snuggled up on your new pillows and that's where you stayed for the rest of the day. 

Well, we're not in much better shape this afternoon as we were this morning. G's temp is still hovering between 102-103 with tylenol. K's puked twice now. Both have ate popsicles now...and are resting comfortably as I rest a little myself. I needed a quick break so ice the knee...oh the knee. K keeps cat napping... G is trying to cat nap but it's not working because now her throat hurts...(OH NO!)



February 15: Happy Birthday Auntie Tab!

This morning the war on germs took place yet again. Mommy was on her own... armed with a bottle of bleach water, paper towels (I know not Eco-friendly but it's a war against germs people!) and a paper bag for the trash. I crutched around the house making what felt like progress... it's probably all psychological but at least it makes the house feel "cleaner" but what I quickly realized was as I was "fighting germs" I was also creating some chaos as I moved from room to room. I could feel my "inner organizer" coming out. Eventually I had to take a step back and say, "not now I have a war I'm trying to win!" (I think this was the germs' way of distracting me I'm certain.) I cleaned from backdoor to front door... nothing was left untouched. Some things I realized needed some "touching up from Magic Eraser". Well, breaks over time to go get in touch with the "inner organizer" now.

You both woke up a little peppier than yesterday (thankfully)! Gg still had 101.5 fever with motrin that was at 6:30 a.m. Now it's almost 11 and you had a dose of tylenol (for the first time in 9 hours) at 10 and now your temp is a normal 98.5. Gg has a doctor appointment at 2:30 today to make sure that her lungs are sounding good. I'm sure they are but her cough is tight and that scared me.

Good news, no, just news... Gg has the infamous virus that is going around. It's a matter of rest, liquids and more mama TLC. Mommy is now feeling a little less than normal now... oh goody. Stay tuned.

February 16: Mommy fell asleep at 7:30 p.m. last night....woke up at 11 p.m. with a fever, sneezing and a cough (sound familiar?). Daddy left this morning bright and early because he was asked to do some ice training with other members of the Fire Department and the Coast Guard.

Daddy trying to get out of the water.

Daddy trying to help the person out of the water.

That's daddy all decked out in orange.

 He has been so excited about going; I couldn't say "please stay home" even though I was kind a thinking it. Sometimes it's just easier when he's gone anyway. We can just laze around; watch what we want and just be cozy. Hopefully he'll have fun...because when he gets home; he's making dinner for us and then he's doing all the grocery shopping. Lucky dad. Once he got home and unthawed from his icy adventure of going in the lake. He de-hearted our house. :( He took down all the love dripping hearts from every square inch of the walls, the windows and the cupboards. The house looks boring and bare... not to worry there's Easter attire awaiting us for when we're healthy.

Aunt Gina, Ben & Makenna decided to brave the germ infested house and brought you Valentine's. Which was very nice. You each received an outfit, a Lalaloopsy cup filled with chocolate and a Minnie Mouse Valentine from Makenna plus she gave us pictures.

Kk is healthy thus far which is good. Let's pray she doesn't get this high fever; icky nose; sore throat catastrophe. This is what happens when a mommy chooses to snuggle her lil sicky instead of thinking of herself and germs. Oh and apparently my war on germs didn't go over so hot. Nicely played germs...nicely played. Germs 3- Mommy - 0. Poor Gg just woke up at 6:30 a.m. with a fever again. Dang you germs - DANG YOU I SAY! My poor Gg has had enough - leave the kid alone! If you want to torcher anyone - let it be mommy - not my lil hoolies. I love it when they are rambunctious, healthy, happy girls... I need that to lift me out of this fever fog. Off to make my hands cold to rub Gg's head and my own. Even when a mommy is a sick she takes care of her sicky babies because that's what mommy's do. xoxo

February 17: Happy Birthday Auntie Faith! It's Auntie Faith's "Golden Birthday!" She turned 17 on the 17th! Wowwy! It will only happen once in a lifetime!

Gg had her "Golden Birthday" at the age of 4! Kk will have her "Golden Birthday" when she's 19. Mommy had her's when she was 8 and daddy had his when he was 29. Very exciting stuff.

So, last night Gg fell asleep at 3 p.m. yesterday afternoon and slept all the way through until this morning at 6 a.m. She never ate dinner... she really has ate at all in the last week; we get little nibbles here and there from her but nothing substantial. Mommy's getting a tad bit worried. Gg did wake up fever free this morning infact she was a perfect 98.6 and now at 10 a.m. only an hour after telling Gramma Deb we were a go for spending the night... Gramma Sandee text to see how you were too - I told her you were great and fever free and then you climbed in my lap and you felt warm. I took your temp and back up to 100.6. Whatever this virus is it's taking you down and mommy is not loving it. These germs are winning and I don't understand why. You take vitamins; wash hands... well hand washing doesn't matter I guess so much when you're a thumb sucker now does it.

Uncle Lou put on a tie and went with Mona to her friends' baby's baptism. So proud of Uncle Lou! They look adorable together!

Today's our last day of Mid-Winter Break and we did not do one fun thing because we were too sick. Day 5 of the fever for Gg.

 February 18: Mommy is really sick. Gg is still sick... we've had enough of the germs already! Poor Kk started sneezing uncontrollably today. I hope its nothing but afraid she's starting with something, especially that's how both Gg and myself started with this crud. Kk has been entertaining herself in the playroom; which I appreciate. Gg and I keep fighting over the electric blanket; which I don't appreciate but find a little endearing in some moments. I normally let her have it when she wants it... never mind that mommy's teeth are chattering. It's a miserable crud... influenza... germs germs germs. Here's to hoping that tomorrow is better. 

Kk thought she was sneaking into my room to wash her hands this morning at 10 a.m. but really she wasn't the least bit sneaky.

Playing barbies and lala's.

So sweetly together. Note: the hand sanitizer was part of the "feel better" play.

February 19: Today is much better for Gg. Kk is loving today too...BECAUSE IT WAS ANOTHER SNOW DAY!!! We are officially 2 days into our Summer break now for having to make up snow days. Hopefully the state will just forgive the days -- fingers crossed -- so we don't have to make them up. It's a blustery, cold, dreary, icy day... a-this-mommy-is-thankful-my-babies-don't-have-to-be-out-in-this-weather kind of a day. With that being said, mommy is not doing well at all. Mommy may have strep throat (white icky blotches that make swallowing nearly impossible) so, daddy is going to come home early and guess what - we're going out in this awful weather - so mommy can get a throat swab and find out for 100% sure that this is strep and it needs to be taken care of. I don't want to go out in it but I can't handle feeling this sick anymore either. I didn't crawl (not so much a crawl as it was a very gimpy - slow hunched over walk) out of bed until 10 a.m. (that never happens, I am always up with you even if I am just laying on the couch). I listened to you both from my bed, playing in the living room with the barbies & Lalaloopies. I covered my head and just listened with my eyes closed from under the covers. I was okay with that and you both seemed okay with it too. I suppose I should muster up some strength to go get ready for daddy to come home.

While waiting for mommy, daddy took your picture. Before we left Gg was so worried that we were going to "get dead" in an accident because the weather is so terrible. Mommy reassured Gg though, that's why daddy was driving us, because he's a safe driver. xo

Doctors visit for mommy wasn't a flop -- he didn't both testing for strep or the flu -- he just prescribed me zpac and sent me home. Apparently I looked that pathetic. Now we're home with yummy popsicles, mommy snuggled up in her electric blanket and you both are back to playing. Gg is still fever free so that's good news too. I think we're going to be on the upswing now. *fingers crossed*

Labels

Labels... it's on everything -- how else would we know what things are. Yet those are not the labels that I am referring to are the ones we give to people. We should never label people. We should never define a person because people change. If we put them in a box then we are stifling our own intelligence by doing so. It defines more about who we are than the other person. I want you both to really think about how you would describe a person... then I want you to think about how another person would define you... If you want to be defined as an extraordinary person; then be one! Be positive. Be brilliant. Be one of a kind... please don't put yourself in a box... or give yourself a label... live your life as if you want to be defined as all the good things in the world. Live your life to change the world for the better. My job for you as your mommy is to provide you with ways to do just that. I think so far; we have. You make life changing, ground shaking, profound statements every day. Even though they don't make it to the blog; you do make them. The other day Kailee said, "Our choices are our choices and I want to make them good." Profound. Kailee also said, "When people say mean things, it creates wrinkles in a person heart." Ground Shaking. Gracie once said, "The rainbows that God gives us is because of our good deeds." Life Changing. I want to live my life for more rainbows. I want to make sure no ones heart ever has wrinkles in it. The choices that I make will always be to better of you both. I hope I live the example of what I want for the both of you. Don't label others and don't let others label you. xo

Week 6 - Bag of Tricks!

February 6: What a Wednesday... well today mommy learned that a friend of hers had a fire in their home and her friends kids didn't know what to do. So this inspired me to talk to you both about the importance of knowing what to do in an emergency. So, while eating dinner we discussed what we should do if there was a fire emergency in the house. K & G each had different scenario's thought of and that quickly spun out of control... before mommy knew it I had crying babies... I had scenario's that brought tears to my own eyes...I wondered if I had made a mistake discussing it; but I know I didn't because you both need to be reminded about what to do in an emergency. I hugged you both close and then we made an "escape" plan. It was the best thing to do. You each have a copy... and if there's ever an emergency you will know what to do. When it was time for bed, I had both of you weepy and concerned about a fire happening in the house. That was not my intent... so after some consoling, cuddling and hair stroking, you were both sound asleep.

February 7: Today mommy made an immediate family tree. I thought it was a nice addition to the hallway near your room. You both seemed to adore it, so much so that I may have to make two more... maybe those will be something I make for you real soon!

Tonight we played some Go-Fish! It was lots of fun. We played cards for almost an hour. Then Gg read from the Junie B. book.

February 8:  Today when you came home from school Kk's stuffed animals were playing cards. Lately for some reason when you come home these silly stuffed animals are doing funny things. Like one day Crystal Kitty was wearing Gg's blankey as a cape. On another day Gg's blankey was wrapped around Bear Bear and Moosey... magical things happen while mommy is busy doing other things. Gg said, "Mommy the most magical things happen when you're home. You must be magic!" To which I say, "No Gg I'm not magic, I'm just a kid at heart." And that makes her smile about a 1000s time big! ;)

After we were done with snack; we decided to knock out the Valentine's before the weekend commenced! First you each chose from the box that we have... Gg selected bears and Kk selected Tinker Bell. 

Deciding who gets what is very difficult.

Gg hard at working filling out her cards.

My girl... love her.

Gg's list of amigo/amiga's... she is so proud of her neat printing!

Look at that stack of Valentines! Phew! She filled out 23 in all!

Kk's were a "little" easier; she had to only sign her name to them.

Then she had to put them in white envelopes.

She had 28 to fill out!! SAY WHAT?!

This is mine to daddy.

Look at our Valentiny mess!

February 9: Today we went to Auntie Angela & Uncle Josh's for Jordy's birthday party. It was supposed to be on Sunday but Gramma Debbie was worried about the potential for freezing rain. Since we were not doing anything today; we got up early went and bought Jordy his gifts (a noise making police car, a Lightening McQueen car, an Innotab Vtech game (which was Cars), a chocolate bear, a marker that smells like blueberries and then a ToyStory backpack that we used to put all the goodies in! We also gave Abby Doo her Valentine gift which she loves (a red & pink polka-dot outfit, a chocolate bear, a pink smelly marker, and a Strawberry Shortcake Valentine book). Gramma Deb & Grampa Lou also gave you each a Valentine gift; complete with candy hearts, chocolate galore, a book and a travel Princess pad that you can use the marker to fill out (all of which you adored)! We spent the entire day there just visiting while you played so nicely with your cousins who we sadly haven't seen in over a month! First they were sick, then the weather wouldn't cooperate, then Kk was sick and then mommy was sick. It was horrible! But thankfully we were all able to be together to celebrate Jordy and his 6th birthday! Kk came to mommy at about 4 p.m. and said she had a belly ache... she looked a little pale and clammy... so we decided it was time to go home. She immediately put on her jammies and stayed on the couch until bedtime. Poor Kk.

Blowin out the candles!

Happy 6th Birthday Jordan!

We had Jordy's favorite: PIZZA for lunch!

Abby Doo being a princess!

That sweet boy is so happy about his Thomas cake!

Cousins playing!

Jordy loved his police car!

Abby Doo the candy-a-holic eating her chocolate bear.

He loves his birthday cake!

Yummy cake!

February 10: HAPPY 6th BIRTHDAY JORDAN!!

Love.

Poor Kk woke up with a belly ache this morning... a tight feeling... so she is laying low and just reading today. Daddy took Gg to Sunday School and now they are going "Valentine" shopping together. Kk spent the entire day either reading or watching snip-its of tv. She ended up reading 7 books! My little bookie monster -- has been one ever since before she was born! I would read books to her while she was still in the belly (mostly mommy's books but I figured reading is reading) and when I would stop reading she would flip around in my belly like I better start again or she won't calm down.

Daddy was feeling a tad bit under the weather himself by the time they came traipsing back from their Valentine mission ; cough, sneezes and runny nose... managed to muster up energy to make chicken soup for us. Mommy should have made it but he was so stubborn that he insisted he will do himself. Either 1) he likes his chicken soup better than mine or 2) he really wasn't all that sick. The chicken soup was divine. I have to admit I was glad he wanted to make it because I like his way better.

Poor sickie Gg.

February 11: It's another SNOW DAY! It rained and then snowed... then rained again and now it's snowing again big flakes as I type this... that's a recipe for icy roads! Right after mommy got the text message (no more waiting for our school to scroll through at the bottom of the tv screen!) G woke up puking... I mean PUKING bad! The kind of puking that makes you instantly feel sick just by the smell; not to mention the sound or looks of it all. Bleck! That makes me feel queasy thinking about it. Poor G has been running around 100 degree fever... her body hurts... her eyes hurt...her teeth feel a little fuzzy... her toe nails feel bruised and even her hair is giving her grief. She says her tummy doesn't want a drink but her mouth needs one. She insists that I wash my hands in cold water and then rub her head. When I tried a cold wash cloth; it wasn't the same...she likes the cold rubbing motion on her head. So every 10 minutes or so I've got my hands in ice cold water (wish I could use my feet because those are ALWAYS ice cold!) just for my sickie. She also requested I keep my teeth brushed with minty toothpaste because the smell makes her tummy feel less pukey. So, as I'm humming sweet feel better lullabies, I'm also trying to blow softly on her head while I'm stroking her forehead and hair gently with my cold numb hands. It's so heartbreaking to see my babies when they are this sick... the kind of sick that can't be cured with kisses, hugs and extra snuggles. Whatever a mommy can do to make the sick feel any insy winsy little bitsy better -- a mommy will do! Now that Gg's waking up; I best go wash away the feeling in my hands and brush my teeth again...

What a long, snuggly, disinfecting day... I swapped out my now "usual" vinegar & water mixture for some bleach and disinfecting wipes. While Gg  rested mommy and Kk took on the task of wiping down anything and everything we could touch. Kk armed with disinfecting wipes; mommy armed with bleach water and a rag... we tackled the house in no time flat. All that "germ fighting" wore us out; so then we treated ourselves and Gg to a popsicle for our heroic efforts. I should have really asked Kk to do something "school" worthy...but sometimes I'm just too tired and frankly I had a queasy feeling that made me lay low after all that cleaning. Funny we cleaned a lot but the house is still messy... weird how that works... it may even be messier in fact than it was before we started our "war on germs."


As I sit here and gaze out the window in what feels like a a sleepless fog... I cannot help but wonder if there will be school tomorrow. The snow from earlier turned to rain then back to snow several times throughout the day... and now it's snowing & blowing... it's so blustery I cannot help but crave a cup of tea... and feel satisfied with being in my warm and cozies... at only 5:30 p.m. Kk had dinner and shower already... so she's all cozy with a book... Gg is sleeping again which is why I actually have a free moment to type this! If I wasn't here typing; or playing "germ warrior" or playing cards with Kk... I would have cold numb hands stroking Gg's hair so Gg can feel some comfort. She has been quite a trooper! Her fever is goes between 99.9-100.4. She had to take it 3 times to see if it would change; it didn't and I'm quite thankful because she was second guessing the thermometer... she wants to go to school tomorrow so she can "just present her 100's day project". My sweet girl... I know Mrs. McGeorge will let her present hers when she is feeling better.

Funniest thing just happened; Gg popped up real quick (which made me instantly think; puke bucket now!) but she said, "Look it's still light outside and it's getting late!" It's 5:50 p.m. and it's not pitch black out! Gg said, "That means Spring is coming soon!" Yes, Gg Spring is coming... just not soon enough. 

February 12: Gg had a nice nights sleep... mommy however not so much. I woke up 4 times to make sure the tylenol was working...which it was. It wasn't until 4:30 a.m. that I decided I wasn't waking up anymore because it was obvious Gg's fever broke -- cool as a cucumber! So, she's home today for precautionary measures 'course. No school until 24 hours fever free -- school and mommy rule. She wasn't in love with the idea of having to stay home though... 100's day. Luckily Mrs. McGeorge being the fantastic teacher she is; said she will let Gg present her project when she does come back to school. *fingers crossed* Gg stays fever free all day. Kk got a ride to school from daddy though! She did enjoy that... she did not enjoy having to go though since Gg seems okay today. I'm glad Kk went; she has a big Social Studies test and I know she will do fantastic!!

Dear Editor

Tonight mommy was inspired by a cousin of daddy's after posting about how wonderful your teachers are that I decide to write a letter to the Editor of the Petoskey News Review. I hope they print the letter... if they don't then I will tweak it and send it to the Superintendent so these teachers of your receive some recognition for their magnificence.

Dear Editor,
Petoskey residents are incredibly lucky to have such magnificent teachers in our Public Schools. My daughters attend Ottawa Elementary. This is our 4th year at the school and I just have to rave about the teachers there. All of the teachers throughout our 4 years attending the school have been marvelous. These teachers provide opportunities in all kinds of ways to boost a child's confidence, provide guidance and TLC amongst the busy schedules that they must adhere to.

How does a parent ever truly express to a teacher what a difference they make in their child's life? Teachers are absolutely ANGELS plucked from Heaven to guide our children through life by providing the tools necessary to make a difference in the world. I am absolutely blessed that both of my girls have and have had such extraordinary teachers in every aspect of their education! These women who have taught my daughters have been pillars of strength, great confidence,  extreme creativity, and remarkable inspiration; all of the attributes that every mother would want their child to be exposed to.

It's important to recognize teachers and all who work with children; Art, Music, Gym, Media Center Teachers, health care aides, Title I aides, bus drivers, custodians, secretaries, lunch servers and everyone else who encounters a child during the day. These people make a difference, these people each have a hand in sculpting a child. As a parent I am truly blessed that each person who has had a hand in my children's education have been absolutely outstanding individuals. I appreciate each one of them more than they will ever know.

Dear Mrs. Keene

Dear Lisa,

I have been sitting here trying to find the words to appropriately express my gratitude. Kailee came home today with the biggest smile on her face and FULL OF CONFIDENCE! She bounced in the door (yes she did bounce in the door because she was so very excited), with so much pride in her voice and so much confidence she announces (yes announces) to Grace and I, "I was trusted to do a very important job today! I was subbing in for Mrs. Keene and I read to the ENTIRE class Romona Quimbly Age 8!" I gave her a huge hug and told her I was so proud. She got all teary and she said, "Mom, it was the best thing I have ever got to do. I am so proud of myself." My heart soared, to see Kailee radiating with joy like this is just fantastic. I do not have the words to express how truly grateful I am that you gave her that opportunity. You are just boosting that little punks self esteem by leaps and bounds!  Before bed tonight she said, "Mom, I feel like the luckiest girl in the entire world." Thank you Lisa for making my girl feel like the luckiest girl in the entire world. What else could a mom ask for? I hope that you know how much of an impact you make on her little world every day. Moments like this, moments that make her feel like the luckiest girl in the entire world are moments I pray for... and you answered that prayer. Thank you for giving her that opportunity today... thank you.

I am absolutely the most thankful mom you will ever have, I promise. I wish I could do for you like you have done for my girl today. I appreciate it so much Lisa, so very much.

Maria

----

I also took the opportunity to gush on Facebook about your teachers... I'm so blessed to be able to blog about such incredible moments in your life.

"I must do it again and gush about the fantastic teachers at Ottawa that my girls have. It's so incredible how much a teacher can boost a child's self-esteem by just providing a child a small opportunity. One small opportunity gave my girl the most incredible smile, the biggest confidence boost, and gave me the most magical moment with her. Seeing pride on a child's face is angelic and like music from Heaven. I do believe that these teachers that my girls have had are truly a gift from God. I wish I could do for these teachers like they have done for my daughters." 

One day my darlings you will understand just how important these small opportunity's truly are. 

Family Talk Jar

Last night we officially started with the Family Talk Jar and so far so good! The girls love the conversation that is sparked and the stories they get to tell and elaborate upon. The "open ended questions" aspect of my early childhood degree is paying off and is quite usual during these discussions. Tonight's topics: what would you like to be remembered for? And what is the most adventurous thing you have ever done? K would like to remembered for the month she was born in. G would like everyone to know she is loved. Daddy would like people to know he was fireman and loved it. Mommy would to be remembered for advocating for children and being a mommy! The most adventurous thing Kk: Going mushroom picking in the deep woods with daddy and Grampa Lou. Gg: learning to read chapter books. Mommy: Going on the big roller coasters and having 2 babies! Daddy: Going to fire school and being a dad. I look forward to many more delightful conversations with my hoolies.

Week 5 - We survived!

This is some of what the Dancing Queens did on their 2nd snow day!

 January 30: Well, no magic pj's were worn last night and we still managed to have another snow day! However, I found a white crayon under daddy's pillow so I think he secretly didn't want us to go to school! Yesterday Gg was added to Kailee's class on Raz-Kids (Mrs. Keene is so nice, she added her because she had a couple extra spots.) So, this is what Gg wanted to do all afternoon yesterday... then first thing this morning after she came and snuggled mommy & daddy in our bed for a bit; she was on Raz-Kids again! She's completed 6 books already this morning; that's reading and taking a quiz that you have to pass. She said, "Mom this is the best website ever, I love it." I think what she loves is being able to see instant gratification for passing a test... atta girl! Kk is doing phenomenal as well on Raz-Kids! I'm very impressed!!

The toys have a place in the kitchen... because they also need a place to rest.

January 31: The last day of January and we have had such a nice start to the year. I hope the next 11 months go as smoothly as this one has. Mommy has started feeling icky. A headache and fever... makes for a rough afternoon for mommy and an easy afternoon for the hoolies. Gg went home after school with Lia and her mom today for an afternoon play date. They had lots of fun. Kk came home and we colored, attempted to craft then we just got cozy together and read a little. Daddy brought Kk home a strawberry shake since Gg got to go play with a friend. When Gg came home at 6:30 she was wiped out, dog tired! She got in the shower, gave her kisses and hugs, then straight to bed. I thought she was coming down with something (thankfully she wasn't, she just played hard.)

February 1: Movie Night! On the big screen showing was "Barbie: Princess Charm School" We've watched it a few times but we love it equally each time.
While watching the movie all of a sudden Kk starts screaming --- "ouch my leg, OUCH!" We asked what's wrong in a fury of panic thinking the worst immediately of course; because naturally when someone screams out in pain like they are being murdered it is only normal to think "blood clot or tumor"... yeah this what I thought. It's sad I know but it's true mommy unfortunately thinks this because of the reality that I have lived with the experience. So, after gaining some perspective, mommy hobbled over to Kk and she got cozy in my lap... to which Kk manages to say, "Oh it feels like... it feels like a cord is being turned around in my leg." Immediately we knew what the issue was -- Kk had a charlie horse. So, daddy suggested that Kk walk on it to stretch it out. Kk did as suggested and walked it off. 
Mommy is still feeling icky... head is very clogged and I have a feeling mommy has what Kk had last week. We pass our germs back and forth around here...only because mommy needs snuggles, hugs and kisses from her babies.

Kailee did her first pony tail wrapping all by herself.

And she is incredibly proud, as am I!

Poor Gg got a little ouch while playing and daddy consoled her... while mommy took a picture. Typical.

February 2: Groundhog Day! Well, the little beaver in the ground poked his head up and didn't see his shadow so this means we will have an early Spring! Well, last year he did see his shadow and we ended up with an early Spring so I don't know if he's necessarily the best predictor of Spring... but fingers crossed he's right! We could handle melting snow, Spring coats and open windows in March again this year! Michigan weather is so bi-polar that it's hard to say for sure what will happen. In early March last year we had super warm temps then by mid-March  we had 17" of snow fall overnight. It's never easy to tell what will happen.

Super Bowl Sunday after church lots of sledding and playing in the snow!

Then daddy surprised you with pizza, bread sticks and root beer! (It's not a Super Bowl party without the MUSTS!)

February 3: Daddy took you to church this morning. You both were asked by Miss Shirley Ronk if you would collect for the "Soup-er-Bowl"  at Church. You both came skipping into the house what felt like hours (it was a blizzard out there and I was worried) later to tell me about it. You held up your bowls; you smiled sweetly; you said your pleases and thank yous to those who donated. (Who could say "no" to those kind hearted little faces?) You didn't collect a lot of money but you did well! Miss Shirley was pleased and daddy was proud to watch his daughters standing doing their "good deed" for the day. Even at your young ages your good deeds come in ways that are sweet and perfect.

Oh Lord!

Gg makes this face at Kk and says, "Is this face funny or not?"

February 4: This morning on the news they were discussing how a Marine shot a Navy Seal. Well, this came on just as Michigan this Morning switches over to CBS Morning Show... I was mid-pony tail gathering for Kailee when this occurred. Immediately my heart sank; because I do not expose you to that kind of news if I can help it. I try and keep your television exposure to "happy, beautiful, light hearted" topics. Well, without missing a beat Gg says, "Oh that poor baby seal. That person should get the police called on them for killing a baby seal." I love your pure of heart, beautiful, happy view of the world... I love that you heard what you did Gg. No, I did not correct you; I infact agreed and then we finished our morning routine. There's another reason we should never watch the news because it always has things that make me question the world... and if I'm questioning the world - how I am suppose to explain actions that are unexplainable to you - mom's are supposed to be able to explain everything. There will be times in your life where it is more appropriate to explain methods and reasons to you; as you grow older I will hopefully age appropriately do so. Sometimes though, I won't be able to. I won't be able to explain things that I do not understand... I guess that's where our faith in God comes in to guide us. We can always pray over the things we do not understand. We may not always receive an answer in the way in which we think an answer should come but if we're watching peacefully hopeful we will feel the answer; I promise.

More snow.

All day light fluffy snow falling.

What does Lily do while you're not home or sleeping? Well, she gets into the plastic bags and rips them all out until there's a huge mess. Yes, she did all that. Silly cat!

February 5: I am feeling like a very blessed mommy this morning. Let me tell you why. I wake up to little chatters coming from your room. I hear Kk say, "where's duck duck?" Gg says, "I don't know Kk let me find it for you." Daddy kisses me good morning. Gg comes into the room and says, "Mommy, good morning, where's Kk's duck duck?" Before I can say a word, I get a kiss on the cheek and Gg says, "Close your eyes mommy, Kk found it." I come out to the living room and you both are dressed and eating breakfast. I sit down where daddy had a coffee waiting for me. Kk kisses me good morning, then I brush her hair and put it up for her. Gg is next in the line of kisses and hair up do's. We agree upon two small braids pulled back so there's no little pieces of hair in her face while at school. You both brush teeth and get your lunch boxes in your back packs... all of this without reminder or coaxing. You both put on your snow attire and backpacks, come back for one last kiss before trekking into the snow with daddy to await the bus. As I sit here in this warm home; with your minty freshly brushed kisses lingering; I realize how truly lucky I am that you both are so responsible with your morning routine. Thank you. xo

"Walter the Whale with Wings"

“I want to make the world a better place than it was when I entered it. I hope I can, even on the smallest levels.” - Edward Lahti

A few weeks ago, mommy read about a man, a poet from Lansing who wrote a book about a whale. The story is really quite remarkable. Well, the poet had cancer and his friends wanted to see his dream of his book becoming published and made into a movie become a reality on his behalf. His friends started a "collection" through a website called Kickstart. His friends earned enough money to actually make the dream of their dying friend come true. So we donated an amount of money to the project because it struck a cord in my heart. I decided instead of buying a couple "yummy" coffees at the store and going to breakfast on Sunday School mornings; we could do without them and give that money saved to this project. This selfless project which is now in memory of a friend, is worth not going to breakfast or having a coffee... I hope you one day want to invest in something that makes a small difference in the world. I hope you come across something that makes your heart strings pluck over and over until you say, "I will help." Sometimes helping is about sharing information, donating funds, giving your time...  Thursday the man battling cancer who wrote the Whale book passed on to be with Jesus. He went to Heaven where he can watch his friends do good works on his behalf... he can watch them without pain anymore.

There's a lesson to be learned in this... the lesson while there are many that can be concluded from the acts of kindness of his friends to not waiting til it's too late to make dreams happen. I hope you have a friend who you would go to extraordinary lengths for one day. I hope that friendships encircle your life and allow you to experience forever in a way that can only be preserved in a friendship. I also hope that you make the world a better place even in the smallest way as Edward Lahti, the man who won in life with friendships that love him unconditionally, had and will continue to do through inspiring acts of kindness for others.

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20130201/NEWS01/302010054/Lansing-poet-author-loses-battle-cancer

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2013301240051

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Walter-the-Whale-with-Wings/61882681759

 http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2013301180063

Little Moments

Sweet little moments... this morning I heard "Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the Way!" Being first hummed... then sung quietly and as the clock approach 7 a.m. it was increasing in volume and some delight. The little Christmas songs being sung in January are little moments that make me treasure your youth. You make me hum Christmasy carols unexpectedly sometimes... I love that it hits me at the strangests of times too; like laying in bed trying to sleep or while I'm putting dishes away or folding laundry. I have you both to thank for these little moments that make me smile. When I catch myself humming the "wintery-only" songs I smile and laugh out loud at myself. I laugh because then immediately I know why I'm humming "wintery-tunes" it's because of you both. Thank you for keeping me in touch with my youth. May you both always sing "wintery-Christmasy-tunes" throughout the year at unexpected moments for your entire life... never not hum a tune because it is not the season... the season is whenever we want it to be!

Tries.

When your older... or now even... I want you hoolies to remember that trying is important. It's how we know if something works or not. Try at everything... if you don't try you will never know if it was worth it or not. Tries are how we decide if something is our passion. If people never tried something knew we wouldn't have the glorious world of technology... cars... bicycles... telephones... you get the picture. Well, it's important to me that when you are in a situation to try something new; something that is a good, a perfect, an I-won't-regret-this-my-mommy-would-be-proud thing, please try it. Now, don't take this Holy Grail of information to try and use against me one day; there are things in life I don't want you to try; things that will put you in bad situations, things that would probably make my skin crawl, things that would break my heart... those things, those things you'll know are not appropriate and shouldn't be tried... they shouldn't be tried because you are being raised to make choices that you are proud of. Choices that you would be proud to say, "yes I did that" with your head high. I hope that when you encounter the new tries that life will present to you that you will consider two things, "Will I hold my head high afterward? and Will I proudly tell my parents?" If you cannot answer "Yes" to those questions than it's not something you should try.

Tries that I hope you do one day... love with entire being-- this is how I knew I loved daddy with all my heart. Dancing without fear! Walk in the rain and enjoy the moment. Go to college. Find your passion. Follow your dreams. Get the most out of every day. Make choices that not only benefit you but will benefit others. Volunteer. Help people in need. Do something dare-devil'ish -- like bungee jump or go on a big roller coaster. Try to play an instrument and a sport of some kind. The list of possibilities of "tries" are endless so I'll stop here... but know that I will always be proud of you if you just try. It's not about whether you succeed or not; it's about the try that matters. xo