Two of my three have completed their fall semester obligations. Classes are done, finals are over and they are officially on Christmas break.
Chloe will start her finals next week and finish at 10:02 AM Friday, December 18, 2009. (Not that she's counting or anything.)
Where did the time go?
Katie had her cast removed Monday! No need for further casting, splinting or PT. Yeah. EJ had his last final Monday and an interview with Congressman Nathan Deal's selection committee this morning. Now we wait. Chloe has an additional part-time job filing for a paving company. Since she has basically been layed off at Brusters until February, this is great news. Her first day was yesterday. She enjoyed the work and the pay is great. And this job being offered to her is another example of who you know - family member of step-mom's.
Chloe and I decorated the tree Tuesday. They would all like for me to bake Chocolate Jumbles but I, honestly, don't know how I'll work that in. Presents are starting to appear under our tree, the weather is cold and Christmas music is on all the radio stations.
Merry Christmas!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Good News, Bad News, Good News?
The good news is - Katie does not need surgery for her thumb. New xrays this morning showed that the bone had actually moved, but to a better position. Surgery and or screws are not needed.
The bad news is that she will wear a cast for 3 weeks. Can anyone say finals? Writing and washing her hair seem to be the biggest obstacles so far.
The good news is the cast is pretty pink and she can still move all her fingers.
She took it all like a trooper this morning. The pain seems to be only if she bumps it or if the spint was off and she held it other than at shoulder level. The cast is to protect the end of the thumb from being jarred so the bone can heal properly. The doctor feels she will have some stiffness in that joint forever, but surgery would most likely not fix that. As long as her instructors are willing to work with her regarding test taking and essays, she should sail through this just fine.
The bad news is that she will wear a cast for 3 weeks. Can anyone say finals? Writing and washing her hair seem to be the biggest obstacles so far.
The good news is the cast is pretty pink and she can still move all her fingers.
She took it all like a trooper this morning. The pain seems to be only if she bumps it or if the spint was off and she held it other than at shoulder level. The cast is to protect the end of the thumb from being jarred so the bone can heal properly. The doctor feels she will have some stiffness in that joint forever, but surgery would most likely not fix that. As long as her instructors are willing to work with her regarding test taking and essays, she should sail through this just fine.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Another Busy Weekend
Katie spent most of her Friday running errands and picking up supplies in preparation for the painting party at her dad's new house on Saturday. I went with her for the last part of her paint run and she had her back seat FULL with at least 35 gallons of paint.
Katie and Chloe left around 8 AM Saturday to paint. Katie came home long enough from that to shower, change and go baby sit. She walked in the door around midnight. Chloe was able to have some downtime and relax Saturday evening after her painting marathon. EJ worked as a referee for 3 games (12:30 - 7 PM) Saturday afternoon/evening. He was more than a little chilled when he got home. I was able to meet with Mary, Sheila and Dawn for a much needed chat and movie session.
Sunday was the usual church commitments and Kate went back to paint then shop for sinks and toilets before she went to play soccer at 4 PM. Chloe went to work on a project for school with a friend and EJ played soccer at 6 PM.
I was at handbells when I received a call from Kate saying she was on the way to the ER. She injured her left thumb attempting to stop someone from scoring. I could tell she had been crying and was upset. She said she could drive and her dad was going with her. I told her I'd meet her at the ER.
Her left thumb is broken! Major adjustments will follow; hard to tie your shoes or shampoo your own hair with one hand in a splint. I made an appointment this morning for her to see the orthopedic doctor and we'll see what he has to say and go from there.
Katie walked in from the ER and Chloe took one look at her and said "Oh, Katie. Can I give you a hug? Would you like Bruster's?" And off Chloe went to buy her big sister comfort food. I have the best kids!
Katie and Chloe left around 8 AM Saturday to paint. Katie came home long enough from that to shower, change and go baby sit. She walked in the door around midnight. Chloe was able to have some downtime and relax Saturday evening after her painting marathon. EJ worked as a referee for 3 games (12:30 - 7 PM) Saturday afternoon/evening. He was more than a little chilled when he got home. I was able to meet with Mary, Sheila and Dawn for a much needed chat and movie session.
Sunday was the usual church commitments and Kate went back to paint then shop for sinks and toilets before she went to play soccer at 4 PM. Chloe went to work on a project for school with a friend and EJ played soccer at 6 PM.
I was at handbells when I received a call from Kate saying she was on the way to the ER. She injured her left thumb attempting to stop someone from scoring. I could tell she had been crying and was upset. She said she could drive and her dad was going with her. I told her I'd meet her at the ER.
Her left thumb is broken! Major adjustments will follow; hard to tie your shoes or shampoo your own hair with one hand in a splint. I made an appointment this morning for her to see the orthopedic doctor and we'll see what he has to say and go from there.
Katie walked in from the ER and Chloe took one look at her and said "Oh, Katie. Can I give you a hug? Would you like Bruster's?" And off Chloe went to buy her big sister comfort food. I have the best kids!
Monday, October 19, 2009
A New Reality
Life without soccer and band is still taking some getting used to. I miss both activities.
My Friday's and Saturday's used to be spent juggling football games, marching competitions and soccer games. This past Saturday I spent a rainy day in Dahlonega, GA. It was Gold Rush. If that means nothing to you, don't feel bad because I had no idea what it was either.
EJ called around 9 AM Saturday to say that he just found out some parents were coming up for the parade at 3 PM. Squad progress drills would be in the morning. His squad was scheduled for 11:15 AM. I could come watch that if I wanted to. I told him I could make that and headed out.
The drills were interesting to watch. I could have done without the 43 degree weather and rain, but I managed to stay fairly dry. When EJ was released, he came to find me and we went to get a bite to eat. Then I wandered the square in downtown Dahlonega and waited for the parade to start. I listened to some gospel music, ate some fried dough and wandered through two antique malls and a TON of craft booths. A very pleasant way to spend Saturday afternoon.
The parade was surprisingly very long. Two bands, a fire truck, some Clydesdales and every Boy Scout and Girl Scout in Lumpkin County. Lots of politicians, beauty contest winners AND runners-up. And antique cars; so many of them. The Corp of Cadets were in the beginning of the parade. Honestly, after my cadet went by the event lost most of its appeal for me. But I stayed for most of it.
EJ was able to come home with me after the parade. He had dinner with Kate and me, went to a movie with friends, attended church and played soccer with Kate Sunday afternoon. After dinner Sunday night I took him back to school. A different kind of weekend, but not a bad one.Tuesday, September 29, 2009
It's All About Who You Know
I know this to be true. Today, we saw it in action.
Back in July EJ received his first (and only???) speeding ticket. The irony of the whole ticket thing is that he managed to drive to and from Ohio and Florida with his teenage buddies without any tickets, warnings or accidents. He no sooner gets back into Forsyth County, GA, from his last summer excursion and he gets pulled over. Grrr!
When he handed me the ticket, I was NOT happy and that is putting it mildly. EJ was angry and felt it was a trap. No surprise there :-). He decided he wasn't going to call the number and just pay the fine. He was going to court and fight it. Today was his court date.
While EJ was waiting in the hall for his turn to go before the judge he met up with Leslie Abernathy, Solicitor General, Forsyth County. Mrs. Abernathy is Jessica's mother. Jessica and her family attend First Baptist Cumming and Jessica participates in the youth group with EJ. Mrs. Abernathy greeted him and asked him why he was there. She asked to see his ticket and then proceeded to reduce the speed noted on the ticket and pulled h
im to the front of the line at the counter so he could pay his fine. The change she made on the ticket means NO points on his license and NO INCREASE in insurance!!!! She also told him to SLOW DOWN and said she didn't want to see him there again. THANK YOU Leslie Abernathy. You can bet I will be looking for her at church so I can thank her in person.
Getting EJ to the court house by 8:30 AM in Cumming from Dahlonega was not convenient and meant that I missed some work this morning. But no longer having to worry about how that ticket will affect my insurance rates makes the early morning, 4 hours in the car, extra gas and time missed at work definitely worth all the inconvenience. I feel strongly that things played out the way they were supposed to.
It is my sincere wish that the inconvenience, cost and scolding were enough to slow EJ down. A mother can dream!
Back in July EJ received his first (and only???) speeding ticket. The irony of the whole ticket thing is that he managed to drive to and from Ohio and Florida with his teenage buddies without any tickets, warnings or accidents. He no sooner gets back into Forsyth County, GA, from his last summer excursion and he gets pulled over. Grrr!
When he handed me the ticket, I was NOT happy and that is putting it mildly. EJ was angry and felt it was a trap. No surprise there :-). He decided he wasn't going to call the number and just pay the fine. He was going to court and fight it. Today was his court date.
While EJ was waiting in the hall for his turn to go before the judge he met up with Leslie Abernathy, Solicitor General, Forsyth County. Mrs. Abernathy is Jessica's mother. Jessica and her family attend First Baptist Cumming and Jessica participates in the youth group with EJ. Mrs. Abernathy greeted him and asked him why he was there. She asked to see his ticket and then proceeded to reduce the speed noted on the ticket and pulled h
im to the front of the line at the counter so he could pay his fine. The change she made on the ticket means NO points on his license and NO INCREASE in insurance!!!! She also told him to SLOW DOWN and said she didn't want to see him there again. THANK YOU Leslie Abernathy. You can bet I will be looking for her at church so I can thank her in person.Getting EJ to the court house by 8:30 AM in Cumming from Dahlonega was not convenient and meant that I missed some work this morning. But no longer having to worry about how that ticket will affect my insurance rates makes the early morning, 4 hours in the car, extra gas and time missed at work definitely worth all the inconvenience. I feel strongly that things played out the way they were supposed to.
It is my sincere wish that the inconvenience, cost and scolding were enough to slow EJ down. A mother can dream!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Feast or Famine
This seems to be the theme of my life. Right now it applies to the weather in Atlanta.
Last summer we were bombarded with drought information; how many days of water left in Lake Lanier, how to conserve water, how many people had been fined for watering their yards, etc. Today the news is filled with stories of people that have lost their homes and all their worldly possessions and some their lives as a result of washed out roads and flooding. It has rained every day for over a week.
We, here in Cumming, GA, are happy to report no water damage, flooding or roof leaks! We are very blessed.
Last night after dinner, Chloe and Katie decided they needed an ice cream treat and they wanted it badly enough to face the elements. This meant gearing up for an excursion out into pouring rain. As you can see, they made quite the fashion statment!!!
But they had dry feet when they came home with their ice cream. Sometimes it is the simple things that can make you so happy!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Getting Our Money's Worth
Katie sent me an email yesterday afternoon. It is too good not to share. Those of you on Facebook may have already seen this.
This is Ej's status on facebook. I thought you would find it amusing.
Eric Sloth loves the unlimited meal plan. 8 slices of pizza, two cheeseburgers, a patty melt, french fries, a rotisserie chicken, and two ice cream cones... for lunch. Can't wait for dinner. (Katie)
I felt very strongly about the unlimited meal plan for EJ. I think I was right.
This is Ej's status on facebook. I thought you would find it amusing.Eric Sloth loves the unlimited meal plan. 8 slices of pizza, two cheeseburgers, a patty melt, french fries, a rotisserie chicken, and two ice cream cones... for lunch. Can't wait for dinner. (Katie)
I felt very strongly about the unlimited meal plan for EJ. I think I was right.
Friday, August 28, 2009
17 Again
Chloe turned 17 today, for the first and only time! But this is my 3rd teenager to hit this mark.
We had breakfast at IHOP at 6:30 AM. I think Chloe would have asked for a birthday breakfast anyway, but as it turns out she has a very busy day planned. Breakfast, school, work for 3 hours, dinner and then off to the football game - first time as a paid, non-marching guest! I may see her again around 11 PM!
Chloe mentioned at breakfast that the seniors were told this week graduation will be June 3, 2010 at 3 PM at the Gwinnett Civic Center. The countdown has begun.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Tidbits
We've had another busy week. I think we are finally settling into routines. I do like controlled chaos much better than pandemonium.
EJ texted me from his doctor appointment on Tuesday as they were administering the novacaine in preparation for removing his two big toe nails. He was quite happy they had finally made this decision. He was put on a no-run profile Tuesday, August 18. The doctor told him to keep taking the antibiotic, coated the nails in silver something and told him to come back 8/25. When I talked to him yesterday, he told me that he hoped to find out today how long he will remain out of PT and when he can start wearing shoes again.
He isn't at ALL excited about having to walk around campus in his ACU's (camo uniform) and flip-flops with bandages on his toes! His bootless feet have made him the object of attention for EVERY officer on campus! They all come 'marching' over to him to find out why he thinks he doesn't need to wear the standard footwear. Then they look down at his feet, ask to see his profile and say, "Carry On". I think he is ready to blend in a little more.
Katie started her field experience this week. She is in a 4th grade classroom and told me that she thinks this supervising teacher is her favorite so far. She even knows one of the children in her class. The school is very close and she has worked her class schedule so she will not need to drive to Gainesville on Wednesdays when she goes to the elementary school. She is playing soccer, attending classes and working at the libary. Busy girl. I'm enjoying having her home again.
Chloe is SO BUSY with school work. I was hoping things would calm down for her a little once we got going. But she is up doing homework until midnight most evenings. And she isn't slacking off when she gets home and starting late. The reading is a big part of her workload. But, as usual, she isn't complaining. She just keeps smiling and plugging along . As much as I think I miss marching band, I'm really glad we aren't trying to manage that in the schedule as well. She continues to work about 10 hours a week at Brusters. Those evening hours cut into homework time, but the paycheck is a great reward.
EJ texted me from his doctor appointment on Tuesday as they were administering the novacaine in preparation for removing his two big toe nails. He was quite happy they had finally made this decision. He was put on a no-run profile Tuesday, August 18. The doctor told him to keep taking the antibiotic, coated the nails in silver something and told him to come back 8/25. When I talked to him yesterday, he told me that he hoped to find out today how long he will remain out of PT and when he can start wearing shoes again.
He isn't at ALL excited about having to walk around campus in his ACU's (camo uniform) and flip-flops with bandages on his toes! His bootless feet have made him the object of attention for EVERY officer on campus! They all come 'marching' over to him to find out why he thinks he doesn't need to wear the standard footwear. Then they look down at his feet, ask to see his profile and say, "Carry On". I think he is ready to blend in a little more.
Katie started her field experience this week. She is in a 4th grade classroom and told me that she thinks this supervising teacher is her favorite so far. She even knows one of the children in her class. The school is very close and she has worked her class schedule so she will not need to drive to Gainesville on Wednesdays when she goes to the elementary school. She is playing soccer, attending classes and working at the libary. Busy girl. I'm enjoying having her home again.
Chloe is SO BUSY with school work. I was hoping things would calm down for her a little once we got going. But she is up doing homework until midnight most evenings. And she isn't slacking off when she gets home and starting late. The reading is a big part of her workload. But, as usual, she isn't complaining. She just keeps smiling and plugging along . As much as I think I miss marching band, I'm really glad we aren't trying to manage that in the schedule as well. She continues to work about 10 hours a week at Brusters. Those evening hours cut into homework time, but the paycheck is a great reward.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Cadet Recruit Sloth
We had a busy, busy weekend.
EJ seems to have had a good week. He was in great spirits even though he was clearly exhausted. He had foot issues all week. He called me Thursday morning from the clinic. Turns out those hangnails are actually ingrown toenails and he was put on antibiotics and prescription strength Motrin. He has an appointment with the doctor that comes on campus Tuesday. Surgery was mentioned. However, even with sore/sick feet, he had the fastest run time in his company!
Friday was a furlough day. I accomplished more in that one day than I feel like I've done in months. The biggest achievment was cleaning out the garage. Katie was the motivator for that project. We made a lot of progress. We took one FULL mini-van load to Goodwill! We have some things that need to go to recycling and are anxiously awaiting the garbage pick up this week. But the garage looks great. I was SO tired and sore Friday night. Chloe went to dinner with friends before going to work and Kate and I did the drive-thru in our PJ's for dinner!
Saturday was a lot of running around. I cooked ahead for Sunday, did laundry, Chloe met with a classmate for about 3 hours and worked on a project and the girls and I went to see "Julie & Julia" after dinner. I love that movie.
Sunday started early. We left the house around 7 AM so that we could be in place for the start of FROG graduation at 8 AM. As we were making our way to the drill field, we saw EJ's Company process in front of us on their way to the drill field. EJ was carrying a blue flag. After the 3+ mile run there were awards made. Turns out each person carrying the flag for their company was the chosen company Gideon. (...presentation of the company Gideon. It will be given to the most outstanding individual in the F.R.O.G. class for that company...) It was difficult to hear and understand everything being said on the P.A. system so I missed ALL the indivduals involved in making the decision for this award, but it was more than just EJ's company leaders.
The Gideon is a year long 'thing' (for lack of a better term) and it will be EJ's job to guard and keep the flag safe from being stolen by other companies the entire freshman year. EJ also mentioned that he is guaranteed a leadership role next year. We were/are very proud.
EJ seems to have had a good week. He was in great spirits even though he was clearly exhausted. He had foot issues all week. He called me Thursday morning from the clinic. Turns out those hangnails are actually ingrown toenails and he was put on antibiotics and prescription strength Motrin. He has an appointment with the doctor that comes on campus Tuesday. Surgery was mentioned. However, even with sore/sick feet, he had the fastest run time in his company!
Katie is working at the Brenau library almost every day this week and Chloe is already working on projects and presentations for school. I believe Chloe's youth group activities will start this week and my choir, ladies and hand bell groups are already discussing Christmas music and performance dates!
HERE WE GO!!!!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Not So Crazy Afterall
Chloe has decided AP Chemistry is too much! (The biggest issue is the teacher. She is concerned he will not 'teach', but just hand them things to do.) She called me yesterday afternoon after school to discuss dropping this one class. I don't have a problem with it if it doesn't mess up the rest of her schedule. I asked that she talk to her Guidance Counselor to see how it will affect her schedule before completing the form I needed to sign. She went in early this morning to try and catch Ms. Suarez. :-) I really hope this makes enough of a difference in her workload to keep her sane.
I received an email today with some cute cartoons about dogs. This one just reminds me so much of Bandit I had to share.
I'm sure if he thought a sign would help, he'd find one.
I received an email today with some cute cartoons about dogs. This one just reminds me so much of Bandit I had to share.
I'm sure if he thought a sign would help, he'd find one.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Another Emotional Day
It's only Tuesday and we've already experienced TWO milestones! I'm thinking it is a VERY good thing that this Friday is a furlough day. I need a day to recover!
I took EJ to FROG week this morning at North Georgia College & State University. He reported at 9:00 AM. FROG stands for Freshman Recruit Orientation Group. I think EJ will have a lot of fun. He may be sore and a little beat up when I see him again on Sunday, but I don't think he will be nearly as miserable as some of those boys I saw this morning. There were SEVERAL young men that I feel should have taken the suggestion included with their admission packet "get in shape now" a LOT more seriously! The next few days for quite a few of them may be a real challenge.
If you're interested in seeing what the website says about FROG week, you can click on the link I've attached. This information is for 2008. I guess they will update the site once this group of recruits finishes. But my guess is a lot of it will be the same. And that first picture could be a group from 3 years ago. They look just like the cadets I saw today.
http://www.ngcsu.edu/Military/Corps/frogweek.htm
Chloe got in the car with Katie yesterday afternoon and said "What was I thinking?" Her ambitious schedule seemed a little daunting by 3 PM on the first day of school. I'll be anxiuos to see what her take on things is after day 2.
Work this week is stressful. We have 'visitors' all week and they require a LOT of attention. How many days until Friday?
I took EJ to FROG week this morning at North Georgia College & State University. He reported at 9:00 AM. FROG stands for Freshman Recruit Orientation Group. I think EJ will have a lot of fun. He may be sore and a little beat up when I see him again on Sunday, but I don't think he will be nearly as miserable as some of those boys I saw this morning. There were SEVERAL young men that I feel should have taken the suggestion included with their admission packet "get in shape now" a LOT more seriously! The next few days for quite a few of them may be a real challenge.
If you're interested in seeing what the website says about FROG week, you can click on the link I've attached. This information is for 2008. I guess they will update the site once this group of recruits finishes. But my guess is a lot of it will be the same. And that first picture could be a group from 3 years ago. They look just like the cadets I saw today.
http://www.ngcsu.edu/Military/Corps/frogweek.htm
Chloe got in the car with Katie yesterday afternoon and said "What was I thinking?" Her ambitious schedule seemed a little daunting by 3 PM on the first day of school. I'll be anxiuos to see what her take on things is after day 2.
Work this week is stressful. We have 'visitors' all week and they require a LOT of attention. How many days until Friday?
Monday, August 10, 2009
FINAL Last Day
Well, I did it. I took my youngest baby to her very last, first day of school! And I didn't cry. I realize it sounds so melodramatic to be making such a big deal out of this moment and yet I can't help it. It is a big deal to me. And it is amazing to me that the emotions are very similar to when I put her on the bus for her very first day of kindergarten. This parenthood thing is NOT for wimps.
I think Chloe is anticpating and dreading this year all at once. But she was picking out her friends cars in the parking lot as we pulled up and she got out of the car with a huge smile on her face. She has 3 AP classes this year and is doubling her science load! I hope the first day doesn't overwhelm her. She has already read and completed problems for 4 chapters in Chemistry. Here we go, ready or not.
I had all my babies together for brief moments over the weekend. I was hoping to get a picture at dinner last night, but Chloe's work schedule changed. Maybe tonight.
EJ (also affectionately known as 'Julie') has organized a group dinner at a local restuarant this evening with his friends. Sort of a last hoorah and birthday celebration all rolled into one. He called last evening to make a reservation for 17 people. When he got off the phone, he was laughing. He said the person taking his information asked if he would need any highchairs or booster seats! It's the deep voice! Hard to tell over the phone how old he is. But we all found that question very amusing.
I think Chloe is anticpating and dreading this year all at once. But she was picking out her friends cars in the parking lot as we pulled up and she got out of the car with a huge smile on her face. She has 3 AP classes this year and is doubling her science load! I hope the first day doesn't overwhelm her. She has already read and completed problems for 4 chapters in Chemistry. Here we go, ready or not.
I had all my babies together for brief moments over the weekend. I was hoping to get a picture at dinner last night, but Chloe's work schedule changed. Maybe tonight.
EJ (also affectionately known as 'Julie') has organized a group dinner at a local restuarant this evening with his friends. Sort of a last hoorah and birthday celebration all rolled into one. He called last evening to make a reservation for 17 people. When he got off the phone, he was laughing. He said the person taking his information asked if he would need any highchairs or booster seats! It's the deep voice! Hard to tell over the phone how old he is. But we all found that question very amusing.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Two out of Three
Katie arrived home from Kansas City yesterday afternoon. I spent the evening with my girls and I can't find the words to express how happy that makes me!
Chloe picked Katie up a the MARTA station mid-afternoon and they were both at the house when I got home from work. Katie requested spaghetti for dinner and we were having such a great time catching up that Chloe was almost late for work! Katie and I watched a couple episodes of "The Gilmore Girls" (sort of our thing) and chatted the whole evening while we waited for Chloe to get home. I think I went to bed around 1 AM. The alarm clock was NOT my friend this morning.
EJ left early Sunday morning for Panama City. DJ and his mom, Maura, are spending a week at the beach and DJ was allowed to invite friends. I've lost count of how many trips EJ has had this summer. Basically, he's home long enough to unpack, do laundry and repack before he's out the door again. I'm hoping he will be back Saturday but he wasn't sure what the plans were and I haven't called Maura yet to confirm. At the latest, he will be home Sunday.
The plan is for Chloe to come back to my house from her dad's on Sunday since school starts Monday. IF all the stars align and things go according to plan, I may have all 3 of my babies under my roof for about 36 hours! This new reality is taking some getting used to!
Chloe picked Katie up a the MARTA station mid-afternoon and they were both at the house when I got home from work. Katie requested spaghetti for dinner and we were having such a great time catching up that Chloe was almost late for work! Katie and I watched a couple episodes of "The Gilmore Girls" (sort of our thing) and chatted the whole evening while we waited for Chloe to get home. I think I went to bed around 1 AM. The alarm clock was NOT my friend this morning.
EJ left early Sunday morning for Panama City. DJ and his mom, Maura, are spending a week at the beach and DJ was allowed to invite friends. I've lost count of how many trips EJ has had this summer. Basically, he's home long enough to unpack, do laundry and repack before he's out the door again. I'm hoping he will be back Saturday but he wasn't sure what the plans were and I haven't called Maura yet to confirm. At the latest, he will be home Sunday.
The plan is for Chloe to come back to my house from her dad's on Sunday since school starts Monday. IF all the stars align and things go according to plan, I may have all 3 of my babies under my roof for about 36 hours! This new reality is taking some getting used to!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Counting Down
August is almost here. This means organized chaos for the Sloth house. I'm starting to count down:
6 Days - until Katie comes home from Kansas City!
11 Days - until EJ turns 19.
13 Days - until Chloe starts her senior year of high school!
14 Days - until EJ reports for FROG week.
18 Days - until EJ graduates from FROG week.
22 Days - until EJ starts his first year of college classes!
29 Days - until Katie starts her fourth year of college classes.
31 Days - until Chloe, my baby, turns 17!
And before I know it we'll all be settled into new routines and schedules and another season will pass me by. It's exciting to think of all the wonderful things ahead for my babies and sad to think how quickly the time is passing by.
I'm working everyday on just enjoying the moment.
6 Days - until Katie comes home from Kansas City!
11 Days - until EJ turns 19.
13 Days - until Chloe starts her senior year of high school!
14 Days - until EJ reports for FROG week.
18 Days - until EJ graduates from FROG week.
22 Days - until EJ starts his first year of college classes!
29 Days - until Katie starts her fourth year of college classes.
31 Days - until Chloe, my baby, turns 17!
And before I know it we'll all be settled into new routines and schedules and another season will pass me by. It's exciting to think of all the wonderful things ahead for my babies and sad to think how quickly the time is passing by.
I'm working everyday on just enjoying the moment.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Summertime means Travel
At least for the Slothbabies!
EJ is on his 3rd trip of the summer, Chloe her 2nd and Kate just completed her 3rd leg of summer traveling.
I think Chloe had a wonderful time in Italy and Greece. She took a lot of pictures and is working on gathering her collection of handouts and trip materials with her pictures for a scrapbook. She has survived the jet lag, a 24-hour bug and 4 bone-impacted wisdom teeth removed and is now in Florida with her dad to visit Uncle Nels and his family.
Kate took a mini-vacation from her nanny position in Kansas City and joined the family in Jacksonville over the July 4 holiday. New York, Kansas/Missouri and Florida! She is a busy girl. Katie flew into Atlanta on Thursday, July 2 and drove with the whole gang to Jacksonville. She flew from Jacksonville back to KC on Monday. I haven't heard from her, but I'm guessing she is back at work and very busy today.
EJ left GA on June 21 to travel with 6 of his high school buddies to Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH to ride the roller coasters. Along the way they learned some life lessons and it sounds like they had a great time. You will have to ask EJ to tell you about Maximo, The Gorilla. (see pictures below)
EJ arrived home late Saturday, June 27 from OH and we left mid-morning June 28 for Dahlonega, GA and his college orientation program. EJ was there until Tuesday afternoon and left Thursday for FL with the family. He will have a small break when he returns before it is time for his mission trip with the youth group. He should be back about a week from that trip before it is time to leave for school.
Kate will fly home August 2 and have a couple weeks before it is time for her classes to start. Chloe's first day will be August 10.
Summer for the Slothbabies is flying by.
EJ is on his 3rd trip of the summer, Chloe her 2nd and Kate just completed her 3rd leg of summer traveling.
I think Chloe had a wonderful time in Italy and Greece. She took a lot of pictures and is working on gathering her collection of handouts and trip materials with her pictures for a scrapbook. She has survived the jet lag, a 24-hour bug and 4 bone-impacted wisdom teeth removed and is now in Florida with her dad to visit Uncle Nels and his family.
Kate took a mini-vacation from her nanny position in Kansas City and joined the family in Jacksonville over the July 4 holiday. New York, Kansas/Missouri and Florida! She is a busy girl. Katie flew into Atlanta on Thursday, July 2 and drove with the whole gang to Jacksonville. She flew from Jacksonville back to KC on Monday. I haven't heard from her, but I'm guessing she is back at work and very busy today.
EJ left GA on June 21 to travel with 6 of his high school buddies to Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH to ride the roller coasters. Along the way they learned some life lessons and it sounds like they had a great time. You will have to ask EJ to tell you about Maximo, The Gorilla. (see pictures below)
EJ arrived home late Saturday, June 27 from OH and we left mid-morning June 28 for Dahlonega, GA and his college orientation program. EJ was there until Tuesday afternoon and left Thursday for FL with the family. He will have a small break when he returns before it is time for his mission trip with the youth group. He should be back about a week from that trip before it is time to leave for school.
Kate will fly home August 2 and have a couple weeks before it is time for her classes to start. Chloe's first day will be August 10.
Summer for the Slothbabies is flying by.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Protecting our Investment
Chloe had her wisdom teeth out yesterday morning. She has been uncomfortable, off and on, for about a year. The oral surgeon was able to show us on the x-ray why and give valid reasons for not delaying the procedure. So, yesterday at 9:30 AM Chloe had all 4 bone-impacted wisdom teeth removed. She asked to keep them and the doctor obliged. (ugh!) We're not sure exactly what she will do with them. Uncle Michael suggested making a necklace.
Chloe tolerated the anesthesia and pain medicine beautifully! She was pretty miserable for about an hour - the time between when the novacain wore off and the medicine kicked in. Poor thing was starving but the food options are slim. She slept most of yesterday and all night. I stayed long enough this morning to give her the next dose of medication and instructions for the rest of the day. She seemed quite comfortable with me leaving and she will text me if she needs something.
We were discussing this procedure before EJ left on his trip and he asked when he was getting his wisdom teeth out. I told him I wasn't aware there was a problem. He said the last time he was at the dentist they mentioned it to him and he just assumed they would tell me the same information. If they did, I blocked it out. But it looks like we might be doing this again in the near future. Oh Goody.
Chloe tolerated the anesthesia and pain medicine beautifully! She was pretty miserable for about an hour - the time between when the novacain wore off and the medicine kicked in. Poor thing was starving but the food options are slim. She slept most of yesterday and all night. I stayed long enough this morning to give her the next dose of medication and instructions for the rest of the day. She seemed quite comfortable with me leaving and she will text me if she needs something.
We were discussing this procedure before EJ left on his trip and he asked when he was getting his wisdom teeth out. I told him I wasn't aware there was a problem. He said the last time he was at the dentist they mentioned it to him and he just assumed they would tell me the same information. If they did, I blocked it out. But it looks like we might be doing this again in the near future. Oh Goody.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
A Small Overlap
Well, my Chloe is home safe and sound from her trip abroad. I think she had a wonderful time. We made it through 520 of her 1358 pictures last night before she cried uncle and went to bed. She lasted until about 9:30 PM.
So Chloe will spend the next couple of days recovering, unpacking, doing laundry and sorting through her treasures and EJ will be packing and preparing for his trip to Cedar Point, OH.
http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/park/rides/coasters/index.cfm And I will once again have only one child home.
EJ is scheduled to leave with 7 friends for Ohio on Sunday, June 21. Departure time has not been shared with me, yet! They will drive straight through, ride the roller coasters and head back to GA on June 27. EJ needs to arrive home at a fairly decent hour so that he can be ready to leave for college orientation on June 28.
Chloe may be able to work a few days after she recovers from jet lag before she has her wisdom teeth removed on June 25. I think we were able to schedule that surgery to allow enough recovery time before she and EJ leave for Florida with their dad to visit Uncle Nels and family.
I am not traveling and yet my summer seems to be flying by. :-)
So Chloe will spend the next couple of days recovering, unpacking, doing laundry and sorting through her treasures and EJ will be packing and preparing for his trip to Cedar Point, OH.
http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/park/rides/coasters/index.cfm And I will once again have only one child home.
EJ is scheduled to leave with 7 friends for Ohio on Sunday, June 21. Departure time has not been shared with me, yet! They will drive straight through, ride the roller coasters and head back to GA on June 27. EJ needs to arrive home at a fairly decent hour so that he can be ready to leave for college orientation on June 28.
Chloe may be able to work a few days after she recovers from jet lag before she has her wisdom teeth removed on June 25. I think we were able to schedule that surgery to allow enough recovery time before she and EJ leave for Florida with their dad to visit Uncle Nels and family.
I am not traveling and yet my summer seems to be flying by. :-)
Friday, June 12, 2009
Day 5 - Patras • Olympia • Argolida
Arrive in Patras
Travel to Olympia
Take a guided tour of Olympia
Visit the Olympia Museum
Continue on to Argolida
The hotel stop over is one night only for this portion. I think Chloe will be in a total of 5 hotels and if you count the overnight ferry ride that makes 6 strange beds!
I had an email from Chloe this afternoon stating she was ready to sleep in her own bed. The email arrived @ 4:30 PM EDT. If I'm doing the time conversion correctly, that means she sent it around 11:30 PM Athens time. She said she is having fun and she would like grilled ham and cheese for dinner the night she gets home. That's easy!
Travel to Olympia
Take a guided tour of Olympia
Visit the Olympia Museum
Continue on to Argolida
The hotel stop over is one night only for this portion. I think Chloe will be in a total of 5 hotels and if you count the overnight ferry ride that makes 6 strange beds!
I had an email from Chloe this afternoon stating she was ready to sleep in her own bed. The email arrived @ 4:30 PM EDT. If I'm doing the time conversion correctly, that means she sent it around 11:30 PM Athens time. She said she is having fun and she would like grilled ham and cheese for dinner the night she gets home. That's easy!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Day 4 - Pompeii • Night ferry
Take a guided tour of Pompeii
Travel to Puglia
Board an overnight ferry to Patras
Chloe tried to call me using one of the student's international phones Wednesday night around 5:10 PM my time. It was 11:10 PM in Rome. When I answered the phone I was not able to hear her, but she did leave a message. She sounded tired and a little homesick. I wasn't able to call her back using the number on my phone. She was looking forward to her trip to Pompeii.
They were scheduled to leave the hotel at 5:30 AM and arrive after a 3.5 hour bus ride in Pompeii. Walking tour was to last 2 hours and then they were boarding the bus for a 6 hour dive to Brindisi to board the ferry for an overnight trip to Patras (Greece, I believe).
Travel to Puglia
Board an overnight ferry to Patras
Chloe tried to call me using one of the student's international phones Wednesday night around 5:10 PM my time. It was 11:10 PM in Rome. When I answered the phone I was not able to hear her, but she did leave a message. She sounded tired and a little homesick. I wasn't able to call her back using the number on my phone. She was looking forward to her trip to Pompeii.
They were scheduled to leave the hotel at 5:30 AM and arrive after a 3.5 hour bus ride in Pompeii. Walking tour was to last 2 hours and then they were boarding the bus for a 6 hour dive to Brindisi to board the ferry for an overnight trip to Patras (Greece, I believe).
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Day 3 - Rome
Visit to Vatican City:
Sistine Chapel
St. Peter's Basilica
Take a guided tour of Rome
Forum Romanum
Visit the Colosseum
Take a walking tour of Rome:
Pantheon
Trevi Fountain
Spanish Steps
The itinerary for today makes me tired just reading it. So much to see in such a short time. It looks like the weather is cooperating. Chloe's very good at taking pictures. I'm looking forward to seeing and hearing all about her trip.
The tour link is interesting in that it appears to be linked via GPS. But neither Mr. Hedges or the EF Tour Director have added comments or pictures they have taken along the way. I was looking forward to that. Oh well. Chloe was looking forward to me hearing it ALL from her.
Sistine Chapel
St. Peter's Basilica
Take a guided tour of Rome
Forum Romanum
Visit the Colosseum
Take a walking tour of Rome:
Pantheon
Trevi Fountain
Spanish Steps
The itinerary for today makes me tired just reading it. So much to see in such a short time. It looks like the weather is cooperating. Chloe's very good at taking pictures. I'm looking forward to seeing and hearing all about her trip.
The tour link is interesting in that it appears to be linked via GPS. But neither Mr. Hedges or the EF Tour Director have added comments or pictures they have taken along the way. I was looking forward to that. Oh well. Chloe was looking forward to me hearing it ALL from her.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Day 2 - Rome Arrive in Rome .
Chloe was scheduled to arrive in Rome at 11 AM local time today, June 9. I have not heard from her and this means no emergencies and this is GOOD.
Group A of the South Forsyth group was to arrive several hours before Group B. The adult responsible for Chloe until they hook up with the EF Tour director and Mr. Hedges was told by Mr. Hedges that because they were going to arrive so much earlier than Group B they might have a small tour while they waited. It will be nice to hear that worked out for them and find out what they got to see that the other group won't.
I hope Chloe is having a wonderful time and isn't too exhausted. Tomorrow looks to be a very ambitious day.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Monday, June 1, 2009
And Another Milestone...
I can't believe it! EJ's graduation has come and gone. He is officially a college bound young man.
I was very glad that we did not have to worry about the weather for his ceremony. Though the date and time made it impossible for several people to attend, we knew that it would take place rain or shine. And for that particular few days, that was a nice thing to know.
Right now, EJ is in Hilton Head celebrating with several of his friends. He was invited by Clint and Clint's parents to stay for a week in their condo. I believe Cheryl and Steve have 6 18-year old boys with them. The good news is they are all great kids.
Kate is in Kansas City, KS, with her nanny family from last summer. She hasn't been in touch a whole lot which to me means she is settling in just fine and having a great time.
Chloe and I are starting to get her ready for her trip to Italy and Greece. We have the biggies taken care of. Now it is just the little details that will make her trip a little easier.
The summer already seems to be slipping by too quickly! Yikes.
I was very glad that we did not have to worry about the weather for his ceremony. Though the date and time made it impossible for several people to attend, we knew that it would take place rain or shine. And for that particular few days, that was a nice thing to know.
Right now, EJ is in Hilton Head celebrating with several of his friends. He was invited by Clint and Clint's parents to stay for a week in their condo. I believe Cheryl and Steve have 6 18-year old boys with them. The good news is they are all great kids.
Kate is in Kansas City, KS, with her nanny family from last summer. She hasn't been in touch a whole lot which to me means she is settling in just fine and having a great time.
Chloe and I are starting to get her ready for her trip to Italy and Greece. We have the biggies taken care of. Now it is just the little details that will make her trip a little easier.
The summer already seems to be slipping by too quickly! Yikes.
Monday, May 4, 2009
We're Still Here
I can't believe it has been so long since I've had a moment to post. We've been so busy I'm not sure I can remember WHY I haven't had time to post!
It is the first week of May and school is wrapping up for the Slothbabies. Kate called me this afternoon to report she received 2 A's and 3 B's for a semester GPA of 3.4! Way to go Kate! Chloe will take her first AP exam on Friday. EJ will take his AP exam on Thursday. I think next week will be EJ's last official week of school - the seniors finish early. And in 22 days EJ will graduate. I'm not ready.
Chloe has received her first paycheck and is anxiously awaiting check #2. I'm hoping she can save most of the money she will need for spending money on her trip.
Kate finished school and finals on Friday. She has officially moved out of her Gainesville apartment. The plan is to live at her dad's newly completed house (est. completion date of late July) and commute to school. She and Chloe went to a movie Friday night and then Katie came and helped me check people in for the band fundraiser, Concert in the Quarry. It looked like the weather was going to shut us down. The plans for this event take about a year! I've been working on ticket sales since March! It would have been very disappointing if we hadn't been able to go ahead, but Mother Nature cooperated and we made it through the whole concert without getting wet. Someone was really on top of things and managed to keep the fireworks dry during the downpour at 3 PM and they were great.
Katie had a 7 AM flight out of Atlanta to Oneonta, NY! She will help Kristin with her girls, Anya and Sasha, until it is time to fly home for her dad's wedding and EJ's graduation. (Rob and Kim she is hoping to see you why she is there - let me know if you need her cell #). I believe she will fly home May 21 and then leave again on May 27 for Kansas City. Her nanny family from last summer has relocated from Canton, GA to Kansas City and they are flying her out to work/stay with them for 8 weeks!
Chloe will leave June 8 for Italy (Rome) and Greece. She is getting very excited about her trip and we've had a mental pack list going for about 6 weeks now. Chloe will have her band concert Thursday evening and her banquet on Friday and then we are finished with band. (Mom is still sad about that). After much deliberation and thought Chloe has decided not to be a part of the band program next year. She has a VERY ambitious schedule for her senior year and would like a chance to take an elective that isn't PE (PE has been just about her only option to fit in her schedule while in band).
EJ has several trips planned for his summer. He has been invited to go to Hilton Head with his friend, Clint, and several other graduating seniors. EJ has been organizing a trip to Cedar Point, OH since last summer. I believe they have most of the trip planned and organized. I'm impressed. He will go with the youth from church and the WORLD CHANGER mission team to Brunswick, GA for a week in July and to FL for a week with his dad (and sisters) to visit family. And then he'll be off to school.
And now it's time to make an appointmet for Chloe's senior picture, decide which colleges she would like to visit and get those trips planned, schedule the SAT and ACT...
HERE WE GO AGAIN!
It is the first week of May and school is wrapping up for the Slothbabies. Kate called me this afternoon to report she received 2 A's and 3 B's for a semester GPA of 3.4! Way to go Kate! Chloe will take her first AP exam on Friday. EJ will take his AP exam on Thursday. I think next week will be EJ's last official week of school - the seniors finish early. And in 22 days EJ will graduate. I'm not ready.
Chloe has received her first paycheck and is anxiously awaiting check #2. I'm hoping she can save most of the money she will need for spending money on her trip.
Kate finished school and finals on Friday. She has officially moved out of her Gainesville apartment. The plan is to live at her dad's newly completed house (est. completion date of late July) and commute to school. She and Chloe went to a movie Friday night and then Katie came and helped me check people in for the band fundraiser, Concert in the Quarry. It looked like the weather was going to shut us down. The plans for this event take about a year! I've been working on ticket sales since March! It would have been very disappointing if we hadn't been able to go ahead, but Mother Nature cooperated and we made it through the whole concert without getting wet. Someone was really on top of things and managed to keep the fireworks dry during the downpour at 3 PM and they were great.
Katie had a 7 AM flight out of Atlanta to Oneonta, NY! She will help Kristin with her girls, Anya and Sasha, until it is time to fly home for her dad's wedding and EJ's graduation. (Rob and Kim she is hoping to see you why she is there - let me know if you need her cell #). I believe she will fly home May 21 and then leave again on May 27 for Kansas City. Her nanny family from last summer has relocated from Canton, GA to Kansas City and they are flying her out to work/stay with them for 8 weeks!
Chloe will leave June 8 for Italy (Rome) and Greece. She is getting very excited about her trip and we've had a mental pack list going for about 6 weeks now. Chloe will have her band concert Thursday evening and her banquet on Friday and then we are finished with band. (Mom is still sad about that). After much deliberation and thought Chloe has decided not to be a part of the band program next year. She has a VERY ambitious schedule for her senior year and would like a chance to take an elective that isn't PE (PE has been just about her only option to fit in her schedule while in band).
EJ has several trips planned for his summer. He has been invited to go to Hilton Head with his friend, Clint, and several other graduating seniors. EJ has been organizing a trip to Cedar Point, OH since last summer. I believe they have most of the trip planned and organized. I'm impressed. He will go with the youth from church and the WORLD CHANGER mission team to Brunswick, GA for a week in July and to FL for a week with his dad (and sisters) to visit family. And then he'll be off to school.
And now it's time to make an appointmet for Chloe's senior picture, decide which colleges she would like to visit and get those trips planned, schedule the SAT and ACT...
HERE WE GO AGAIN!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Chloe had a Banner Day!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009, was a good day for Chloe.
Tuesday evening she studied A LOT for her AP US History test (to be counted as 3 test scores!). She spent quite a bit of time in her room reading and re-reading her chapters, making notes, etc. Tuesday night she slept with the book under her pillow! Too cute.
Yesterday afternoon when I picked her up at school to take her to her FIRST JOB INTERVIEW, she told me with a beaming smile that she received a 96 on her history test. I guess that book under the pillow thing isn't so silly after all.
Forty minutes later, she got back in the car with an even bigger smile on her face and almost bouncing with excitement. She has a job and will begin training next week! I honestly don't know who is more excited about the job, her or me.
She will begin working at the very same Bruster's where Katie started her first work experience. She will train 3 days next week and then we will wait to see what her schedule looks like. This job will mean she can save some money for her trip this summer and have a little pocket money for activities with her friends.
Tuesday evening she studied A LOT for her AP US History test (to be counted as 3 test scores!). She spent quite a bit of time in her room reading and re-reading her chapters, making notes, etc. Tuesday night she slept with the book under her pillow! Too cute.
Yesterday afternoon when I picked her up at school to take her to her FIRST JOB INTERVIEW, she told me with a beaming smile that she received a 96 on her history test. I guess that book under the pillow thing isn't so silly after all.
Forty minutes later, she got back in the car with an even bigger smile on her face and almost bouncing with excitement. She has a job and will begin training next week! I honestly don't know who is more excited about the job, her or me.
She will begin working at the very same Bruster's where Katie started her first work experience. She will train 3 days next week and then we will wait to see what her schedule looks like. This job will mean she can save some money for her trip this summer and have a little pocket money for activities with her friends.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Katie is 21!
Oh my! This is another milestone I'm having a hard time absorbing. My 'baby' is so grown up and I am so very proud of her.
Katie asked to celebrate her big day with dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. Works for me! Kate, Mallory, her roommate, and Chloe and I had a wonderful time and meal. EJ was unable to join us because of a track meet. (He missed one last week because of illness and may need to miss Saturday's meet so he felt he really needed to be there - and he didn't get home until 10 PM so there wasn't any way we could have waited for him.)
Katie ordered her first adult beverage and was able to present her new, updated ID. :-) The 3 girls all dressed up for the celebration and were very cooperative when I asked for a picture. (I went in my work duds; so no picture for me.)
We all laughed, giggled, talked non-stop and ate WAY too much. The perfect evening.
Monday, March 9, 2009
I think Spring is Here!
My heat did not run all weekend, we had a soccer game on Saturday, track practice has started with two meets under our belts and the Bradford Pear trees are blooming. Spring in the South is a wonderful thing.
EJ is back to school today after his bout with flu. He was home Wed - Friday of last week. He went and sat on the bench for his soccer game Saturday. He wanted to play, but I think just getting out of the house showered and dressed was a major accomplishment. I'm curious to see how well he'll hold up at school.
The time change has thrown us all off. EJ's sleep pattern isn't normal to begin with. Then he was sick for 4 days and did a LOT of sleeping and then the time changed. He will probably take a lot longer to work back into a routine than Chloe and me.
Chloe will take the SAT on Saturday. Oh my, here we go again. :-)
EJ is back to school today after his bout with flu. He was home Wed - Friday of last week. He went and sat on the bench for his soccer game Saturday. He wanted to play, but I think just getting out of the house showered and dressed was a major accomplishment. I'm curious to see how well he'll hold up at school.
The time change has thrown us all off. EJ's sleep pattern isn't normal to begin with. Then he was sick for 4 days and did a LOT of sleeping and then the time changed. He will probably take a lot longer to work back into a routine than Chloe and me.
Chloe will take the SAT on Saturday. Oh my, here we go again. :-)
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Another Milestone!
They seem to be happening closer and closer together, these milestones that mark off the steps of each of my children from child to adult! I don't seem to get any better about dealing with them even though I'm getting lots of practice.
Chloe took and passed her road test today! She is officially a licensed driver. I'm so happy for her. She was a mess before the test. When she called me over to come speak with the test official, I was afraid that she had not done well. She was bright red and her eyes looked like she might be ready to cry. He asked me if I wanted the bad news or the good news first. I replied, "The bad news." "Your insurance is going to go up!" Whew. They both had me going.
She did have a little trouble with the parallel parking, the part she was the most worried about, but even with that she PASSED with flying colors. Yeah. We waited a long time for her photo because the DMV computers went down. She told me they were informed they could leave and come back but she wanted to wait because her hair wouldn't look as good tomorrow. That's my Chloe.
Chloe took and passed her road test today! She is officially a licensed driver. I'm so happy for her. She was a mess before the test. When she called me over to come speak with the test official, I was afraid that she had not done well. She was bright red and her eyes looked like she might be ready to cry. He asked me if I wanted the bad news or the good news first. I replied, "The bad news." "Your insurance is going to go up!" Whew. They both had me going.
She did have a little trouble with the parallel parking, the part she was the most worried about, but even with that she PASSED with flying colors. Yeah. We waited a long time for her photo because the DMV computers went down. She told me they were informed they could leave and come back but she wanted to wait because her hair wouldn't look as good tomorrow. That's my Chloe.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Conversations with Chloe
Over the last week or two I have had several memorable conversations with Chloe. I keep thinking about each of them and decided I should attempt to document some details. One, so I can always remember them and two, so I can share my joy of Chloe.
The first interesting conversation happened last week. Chloe will occassionally play with my hair. Sometimes we are sitting watching TV, sometimes I'm sitting and she is passing by and will just stop to chat and run her fingers thru my hair and sometimes she is just feeling silly and will attempt 'new' hairstyles for me. Whatever the motivation, I love it when she does it. I have, on occassion, offered to pay her if she would just stay right there and keep it up.
This time as she was sifting her fingers thru my hair, she BEGGED me to keep coloring my hair. She said she isn't ready for me to be all gray. I explained I was over the hassle and had decided the gray wasn't that bad. She pleaded. When I suggested I would buy the supplies and let her color my hair, she agreed. I think I'm stuck now.
The sweetest conversation took place over a couple of hours on Tuesday night. Chloe had a rather trying day and evening. She returned home from visiting with her dad in a rather, shall we say, aggitated state. I think she managed to keep it together until she saw me. I know from experience, you can put one foot in front of the other and deal with things and keep going for only so long and then you see your mom and just fall apart. As she sobbed on my shoulder and told me the many things that had gone wrong, I hugged her and tried not to cry right along with her.
I suggested two possible, immediate fixes (I felt so inspired) and she was able to calm down and we had a game plan. I am happy to report both solutions did the trick and we were both thrilled. When she came to say goodnight and give me my hug, she said "You can't die until I'm 80." and that is when I started to cry. :-) I explained that I would be 110! As she patted my arm she said, "You're strong mom. You can do it. I have faith in you." It was just one of those times I'll always remember. She needed me and I was able to come thru for her.
The funniest one was Wednesday night in the car on the way home from church. I usually drop EJ off at the house on my way back from our services to pick up Chloe from her program. So it was just the two of us in the car and out of the blue she says (if you've spent any time with Chloe you know these kind of statements happen a lot), "No offense to you, 'cause, I mean I know you're smart. But where does EJ get his brains from?" I just lost it. I laughed so hard I almost had to pull over. She then proceed to stumble around and reassure me that she did not mean to imply in any way that I was not intelligent. This just made me laugh even harder! "I mean, it isn't like he studies secretly in his room at night. But who did he get that from? Does it skip a generation?" Then she started trying to make me feel better again. I'm not exactly sure why that tickled me so, but I sure did have a good laugh.
That girl just makes me smile.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Go Katie
I called to check on a church friend Thursday evening. Before we hung up she said "Congratulations on Katie's good news." I was a little stumped but she went on to explain she had seen Kate's name in the paper announcing that she had been named on the Fall 2008 Merit list at Brenau.
The college (or paper) spelled her name wrong, which is a little upsetting. But is nice to see that the college makes a point of sending out notice of these achievements. My friend saved her copy of the paper and let me bring it home. I thought I would share.
I hope Katie can have another successful semester. She is working so hard and I'm very proud of her.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Winter Funk
It happens to me every year, but this winter I can see it in my children as well. All I really want to do is stay home and be still. I would love to be able to just sleep and eat. I don't seem to have much energy for anything else. There isn't a sport or activity that I need to run children around for or be a spectator at. It is that time of year where we are between activities and EVERYTHING seems to be slow.
And yet, this month has been busy. So why are we all struggling so? I've been kept fairly busy at work, church, volunteering for the band and trying to keep up with EJ's college application processes. EJ has been busy writing essays, taking physical fitness tests, attending interviews, getting teacher recommendations, sending emails to admissions officers and staying on top of his school work. Chloe has been busy with school, band, driver's ed, and socializing with friends. But we all seem to be dragging ourselves through the motions. I think we would all be very happy to be able to hibernate; for just a little while.
EJ is in college application limbo. He's done everything necessary on his end. Now he waits. Limbo land is my least favorite place to be.
Chloe is trying not to think about the college application process and taking SAT's and ACT's. She is also 'over' band. I'm very disappointed by this. As of yesterday, she wasn't sure she wanted to march her senior year. I have very strong opinions about that, but I'm trying to let her sort things out in her head. I'm really hoping it is all just part of our winter blues.
Katie started her field experience in a differnt county and school yesterday. She will be with third graders this semester. Apparently, Hall County schools are not as technologically advanced as the Forsyth County schools. That was the first observation she shared with me.
Every year is a little different, but I would like nothing more than to shake this year's funk early. I'm ready for longer days, more sunshine and being able to get outside more.
And yet, this month has been busy. So why are we all struggling so? I've been kept fairly busy at work, church, volunteering for the band and trying to keep up with EJ's college application processes. EJ has been busy writing essays, taking physical fitness tests, attending interviews, getting teacher recommendations, sending emails to admissions officers and staying on top of his school work. Chloe has been busy with school, band, driver's ed, and socializing with friends. But we all seem to be dragging ourselves through the motions. I think we would all be very happy to be able to hibernate; for just a little while.
EJ is in college application limbo. He's done everything necessary on his end. Now he waits. Limbo land is my least favorite place to be.
Chloe is trying not to think about the college application process and taking SAT's and ACT's. She is also 'over' band. I'm very disappointed by this. As of yesterday, she wasn't sure she wanted to march her senior year. I have very strong opinions about that, but I'm trying to let her sort things out in her head. I'm really hoping it is all just part of our winter blues.
Katie started her field experience in a differnt county and school yesterday. She will be with third graders this semester. Apparently, Hall County schools are not as technologically advanced as the Forsyth County schools. That was the first observation she shared with me.
Every year is a little different, but I would like nothing more than to shake this year's funk early. I'm ready for longer days, more sunshine and being able to get outside more.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Here We Go Again
Today is my last day of my Christmas vacation. I am not looking forward to returning to work. I really enjoyed my time off and would like just a few more days to enjoy no agenda. But a few more probably wouldn't be enough. At the end of those days I would be begging for just a few more, so I guess I'd better just suck it up and get on with it.
I left Cumming on December 23 and drove to Spartanburg to spend Christmas with Debbie, Michael, Garrett, Mom and Dad. I had a wonderful Christmas. Debbie made prime rib for dinner - OH MY! Garrett was so much fun to spend the day with.
Kate, EJ and Chloe arrived at Debbie's on Sunday, December 28. We had a nice evening together watching movies and playing games and just catching up. Monday morning the four of us loaded the van and headed for Manassas, VA and the Duvall's. We had a wonderful time just being together. We were treated to a steak dinner on the night of our arrival complete with cheesecake. Steve - Kate is still talking about that steak. YUM! We managed to make the trip north and return without having any weather issues. Yeah.
So today will be spent unpacking, putting away Christmas, a trip to the grocery store and savorying the last day of no agenda. I believe EJ has several essays to write and college applications to complete. (His back up plan in case a Letter of Appointment does not come through for Annapolis or West Point.) Chloe has some homework to complete. I think Kate is the only one that does not return to her 'regular' life until Wednesday and so she can spend the next couple of days doing nothing. We're all very envious!
Happy New Year.
I left Cumming on December 23 and drove to Spartanburg to spend Christmas with Debbie, Michael, Garrett, Mom and Dad. I had a wonderful Christmas. Debbie made prime rib for dinner - OH MY! Garrett was so much fun to spend the day with.
Kate, EJ and Chloe arrived at Debbie's on Sunday, December 28. We had a nice evening together watching movies and playing games and just catching up. Monday morning the four of us loaded the van and headed for Manassas, VA and the Duvall's. We had a wonderful time just being together. We were treated to a steak dinner on the night of our arrival complete with cheesecake. Steve - Kate is still talking about that steak. YUM! We managed to make the trip north and return without having any weather issues. Yeah.
So today will be spent unpacking, putting away Christmas, a trip to the grocery store and savorying the last day of no agenda. I believe EJ has several essays to write and college applications to complete. (His back up plan in case a Letter of Appointment does not come through for Annapolis or West Point.) Chloe has some homework to complete. I think Kate is the only one that does not return to her 'regular' life until Wednesday and so she can spend the next couple of days doing nothing. We're all very envious!
Happy New Year.
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