I'll pick up with Monday of our break since I covered last weekend. So Monday was our first day it felt to really adjust and slow down. It was nice that we didn't have any plans on the agenda. We slept in and took it easy around the house that morning. We mostly cleaned and Austin worked in the yard. I had to grocery shop and prepare for the week ahead. We did get out though to have lunch out and go to Lowe's. Something about this time of year I love eating out. Nothing fancy we just had po-boys and the kids had fried catfish. The rest of the day was very low key which was lovely!
Tuesday we had a nice family morning and went to Lakeside. This is our yearly tradition of going to see Santa and ride the train. I wasn't sure if they would even do either b/c last year when I tried they both refused. Luckily this year they were thrilled. We started with Santa. It was the first year we got Lindsay up there without me having to go sit...well except the year she turned 1. She wouldn't sit near him but atleast she sat without us present. The picture came out so cute too! I love the glimpses of still seeing little kids in them. Even though I looked at a picture just 2 short years ago and realized just HOW MUCH they had grown up! After Santa they both rode the train and got the biggest kick out of it. Then we went to pick out ornaments for them. Lindsay found an Elena ornament in the Disney store and we took Colby to Macy's and he found a Charlie Brown one. By the time we finished all that it was time to eat lunch. Again I just tried to soak it all in. Even though it was before Christmas and it was in the 70s it still felt like Christmas. That afternoon Austin went to Hattiesburg to be with his mom. The kids and I had a low key time at home. My parents picked up Colby that afternoon so Lindsay and I had a very quiet night. I enjoyed just having her and the quiet that 1 child brings. She was also in bed before 7:30 which was bliss as well. It felt lovely to just put my feet up and relax.
Wednesday she and I tried to get going pretty early. We went to go pick Colby up at 9:15 and dropped him off at Nijel's house and we picked up Mia. We girls had a playdate scheduled with Lindsay's friends Claire and Layla. I invited Mia to go with us since she and Claire are now in school together. We got to City Park around 9:45. We spent the morning in Storyland together. It was fun to visit again with Tayna and Cindy. The girls had an absolute blast. We were able to mostly sit and visit while they played. We ended up staying about 3 hours! I was so glad Lindsay got to see her old friends. We miss those preschool days at Aurora so much! Meanwhile Colby also had a blast with Nijel. I was glad they both got to have "Friend time" during the holiday. Once we were finished we dropped Mia off and got Colby and came back home. The kids and I rested a bit. Soon austin got back home too. It was nice that night to not have anywhere to be. We ended up ordering pizza and working on our Thanksgiving pies.
Thursday was of course Thanksgiving (see separate post)
Friday we did our Annual trip to the Children's Museum. Last year we had missed b/c Olivia had a vet appointment. I gave them the choice between there and the zoo and that's what they landed on. We got there a little before 10 and it wasn't crowded at all. They spent a lot of time in the grocery stores both the city and country one. They also spent a lot of time on the building projects. I was proud of how independent and well they played. Its so fun taking them at these ages. I was able to mostly just sit and watch but I would get involved in a few play times with them. We even went into the art room for a bit. They were making snowflakes and they both enjoyed that for awhile. The last thing we did was play downstairs. Down there their fav things were dressing up like the police man and firemen. We only stayed about 2 hours then we went to meet Austin for lunch at Jimmy John's. This has become our holiday tradition on Black Friday. We have done it the last 4 years. Its such a fun thing to do! I hope we can continue it! That afternoon the kids and I just hung out. That evening we did our usual movie night event. We watched Because of Winn Dixie. It was really a good little movie.
Saturday I decided that the kids and I really just needed to run errands. Colby wasn't happy with me but I felt we had done fun stuff most of the week and I needed to get stuff together so I wouldn't be as busy during the week. We first had breakfast with Lizzie at Chickfila. I figured they needed something fun. It was also nice to catch up and visit with Lizzie especially since we didn't see them on Thanksgiving this year. We stayed for about an hour. Our errands began at Party City. We needed to get things for Lindsay's party. I was glad to get that one out the way so I wouldn't have to get out later in the week. The next errand was Target. We needed several things there too. I tried to be quick though b/c I knew the kids were counting down. The last errands were quick just the bank and library. We made it home and ate lunch then hung out. Austin got home early and we worked on outdoor Christmas lights. That night we went to eat burgers at Bud's Broiler. Again just something so comforting and fun about eating out on a chilly evening during the holidays.
Sunday we had church. We went to 1st service. Austin helped me but we only had 4 kids. It was honestly nice. I hate to wish for small crowds like that but we had 2 boys and 2 girls and they were all 4 years old. It made teaching so fun and enjoyable. We left after 1st service to eat lunch and get our tree. We ended up eating Mexican and picked up the tree. That afternoon/evening was spent finishing outdoor lights and decorating the tree! Its always our tradition to decorate the week of Thanksgiving since Lindsay's b-day comes the very next week!
It was a lovely holiday despite the sadness that started it. I feel like we accomplished a lot but also took time to slow down and enjoy each other and the simple pleasures. I also feel like we got to have a lot of fun with the kids. I will miss them when they return to school but it will be nice to get back to "normal". This school year has been so plagued with craziness with Austin's dad being sick and him going there every week that it will be sorta nice to settle back into routines and life before the holidays. This week will be busy as we get back into all of our routines. We will also be prepping for Lindsay's party!
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
Friday, November 25, 2016
Grandparents & Funerals & Feasts
Whew! What a whirlwind the weekend was! Friday we woke up early and went to school for Grandparents Day. It was the first one that I was able to attend. I had originally planned to be at Aurora but I was glad to be able to be there for my kids as well. The morning began with the adults gathering in the church while the kids had carpool. Soon they call came in and they started out with Morning Assembly just like they do every day. I totally lost it when one of Colby's classmates volunteered to pray and bless it prayed for Colby and the loss of his pawpaw. So sweet. It was another moment that I truly realized our kids are in the right place. They split the kids by ages so the 2nd-8th grade left out to go to breakfast. I stayed put in the assembly so I could see Lindsay's class sing. They had also asked my dad awhile back if he would speak at this. He did a wonderful job! The whole morning was just so great. Even though we were in the midst of mourning pawpaw it was just nice to be around people who we love and love our family and to celebrate grandparents. After Lindsay's class sang I walked over to the cafeteria to spend time with my dad and Colby. They were finishing up breakfast when I got in there. It was so cute too...he was sitting at a table with like 4 other boys. They were all so well behaved though. They played Bingo and I just enjoyed watching and hanging out. When they switched I went back into the church so I could hear Colby's group sing. His class was absolutely adorable! I loved it! I left out again so I could then hang out with my mom and Lindsay. They were already finished eating when I got in there. I sat and visited with them a few minutes before we went back into the church to round up Colby and my dad. It was such a sweet morning! I just love our school and school family!
We left and had to come home to hustle to prepare for our trip to Hattiesburg. Since Austin was already up there---there was a lot for me to do. We packed up our stuff and ate lunch and loaded up the van. We met my parents at their house and my mom rode up with us. We got into Hattiesburg about 3:30. We unpacked at the apartment and got settled. We took just a few min to rest and get ourselves together before heading over to Austin's parents. I know Austin was super ready to see us. We got to eat and hang out with his mom and sisters and their families. The kids enjoyed being with Shelbi and Maggie. I think it was a great distraction for them. It seemed to really perk them up. Soon Mrs. Linda's sister arrived and Mr. Jim's 2 brothers and their families. It was a full house! We visited and hung out but once the extended family started leaving I felt like it was time for us to go ahead and head out as well. The kids and I had had a full day and I knew the next day would be much of the same. We said our goodbyes and got back to the apartment. Austin was able to come that night and spend the night with us after helping them clean up. We were glad to have him around. I think we were all pretty tired though.
Saturday we were up bright and early. The funeral started at 9. This was the kid's first funeral and I wasn't sure what to expect. Since we were immediate family we got there a few min before 9 and we were able to view the body and just mourn as a family for awhile. It was hard pulling up to the church and seeing PawPaw's truck but also a hearse. It was so conflicting. Then going in and seeing his body. Again I had no idea what to expect from the kids. Colby of course took it hard but he wasn't scared or overly emotional. He and Maggie just wanted to hang around by the casket. At 9:30 was when extended family and friends started showing up. My parents and Randall and Elizabeth arrived around this time. While they were all there we went to the fellowship hall and let the kids enjoy a donut and walked around some. It was nice to get a break from the sadness. We were back in forth around the church while they visitation lasted 2 hours. The kids were starting to get restless but they really hung in there well considering. At 11:30 the services started. It was about an hour long. It was a beautiful service. I know PawPaw was watching and was proud. After the service we went to the burial. This was an emotional time for everyone. We were out there about 30 + min. After though we went back to the church for lunch. We were all starving! It felt so good to sit down and eat lunch! Colby enjoyed more time with his cousins. After we ate my parents and the kids and I went back to the apartment to pack up and head back to NOLA. I hated to not stay longer but we really needed to get back and we were all so exhausted. We got home around 6 that evening. The kids and I had a light dinner and got ready for bed. Austin got in around 9. I was glad he decided to come on home as well. He was so exhausted that night. Plus I believed we all needed the time to resume life and try to soak up the time together.
Sunday we decided to sleep in and only go to 2nd service. I think we all needed the rest and the quiet. It was nice to take it easy. We still were ready early though so we stopped for coffee on our way. I was able to sit in church for the first 30 min then I had to go into the Fellowship Hall and help with the Scouts. They were volunteering to help out with the Senior Adult Lunch. They were so cute and so well behaved. We stayed for the lunch as well. I was so proud of Colby and his friends and how they acted the entire time! I think the senior adults got quite a hoot out of them as well. Once we helped them clean up a bit we came on home. Once again we were all ready for some rest and hanging out. There was also much to be done around the house.
This Thanksgiving Break started out WAYY different then we imagined or hoped but there was still so much to be thankful for. I am thankful for the life PawPaw lived and all he meant to our family. I am thankful for the way things worked out that we were able to still participate in our holiday stuff but also be there for Austin's family. The weekend was different and a sad time but it also just made me realize how God is in control and He truly takes care of his children.
We left and had to come home to hustle to prepare for our trip to Hattiesburg. Since Austin was already up there---there was a lot for me to do. We packed up our stuff and ate lunch and loaded up the van. We met my parents at their house and my mom rode up with us. We got into Hattiesburg about 3:30. We unpacked at the apartment and got settled. We took just a few min to rest and get ourselves together before heading over to Austin's parents. I know Austin was super ready to see us. We got to eat and hang out with his mom and sisters and their families. The kids enjoyed being with Shelbi and Maggie. I think it was a great distraction for them. It seemed to really perk them up. Soon Mrs. Linda's sister arrived and Mr. Jim's 2 brothers and their families. It was a full house! We visited and hung out but once the extended family started leaving I felt like it was time for us to go ahead and head out as well. The kids and I had had a full day and I knew the next day would be much of the same. We said our goodbyes and got back to the apartment. Austin was able to come that night and spend the night with us after helping them clean up. We were glad to have him around. I think we were all pretty tired though.
Saturday we were up bright and early. The funeral started at 9. This was the kid's first funeral and I wasn't sure what to expect. Since we were immediate family we got there a few min before 9 and we were able to view the body and just mourn as a family for awhile. It was hard pulling up to the church and seeing PawPaw's truck but also a hearse. It was so conflicting. Then going in and seeing his body. Again I had no idea what to expect from the kids. Colby of course took it hard but he wasn't scared or overly emotional. He and Maggie just wanted to hang around by the casket. At 9:30 was when extended family and friends started showing up. My parents and Randall and Elizabeth arrived around this time. While they were all there we went to the fellowship hall and let the kids enjoy a donut and walked around some. It was nice to get a break from the sadness. We were back in forth around the church while they visitation lasted 2 hours. The kids were starting to get restless but they really hung in there well considering. At 11:30 the services started. It was about an hour long. It was a beautiful service. I know PawPaw was watching and was proud. After the service we went to the burial. This was an emotional time for everyone. We were out there about 30 + min. After though we went back to the church for lunch. We were all starving! It felt so good to sit down and eat lunch! Colby enjoyed more time with his cousins. After we ate my parents and the kids and I went back to the apartment to pack up and head back to NOLA. I hated to not stay longer but we really needed to get back and we were all so exhausted. We got home around 6 that evening. The kids and I had a light dinner and got ready for bed. Austin got in around 9. I was glad he decided to come on home as well. He was so exhausted that night. Plus I believed we all needed the time to resume life and try to soak up the time together.
Sunday we decided to sleep in and only go to 2nd service. I think we all needed the rest and the quiet. It was nice to take it easy. We still were ready early though so we stopped for coffee on our way. I was able to sit in church for the first 30 min then I had to go into the Fellowship Hall and help with the Scouts. They were volunteering to help out with the Senior Adult Lunch. They were so cute and so well behaved. We stayed for the lunch as well. I was so proud of Colby and his friends and how they acted the entire time! I think the senior adults got quite a hoot out of them as well. Once we helped them clean up a bit we came on home. Once again we were all ready for some rest and hanging out. There was also much to be done around the house.
This Thanksgiving Break started out WAYY different then we imagined or hoped but there was still so much to be thankful for. I am thankful for the life PawPaw lived and all he meant to our family. I am thankful for the way things worked out that we were able to still participate in our holiday stuff but also be there for Austin's family. The weekend was different and a sad time but it also just made me realize how God is in control and He truly takes care of his children.
Grandparents & Funerals & Feasts
Whew! What a whirlwind the weekend was! Friday we woke up early and went to school for Grandparents Day. It was the first one that I was able to attend. I had originally planned to be at Aurora but I was glad to be able to be there for my kids as well. The morning began with the adults gathering in the church while the kids had carpool. Soon they call came in and they started out with Morning Assembly just like they do every day. I totally lost it when one of Colby's classmates volunteered to pray and bless it prayed for Colby and the loss of his pawpaw. So sweet. It was another moment that I truly realized our kids are in the right place. They split the kids by ages so the 2nd-8th grade left out to go to breakfast. I stayed put in the assembly so I could see Lindsay's class sing. They had also asked my dad awhile back if he would speak at this. He did a wonderful job! The whole morning was just so great. Even though we were in the midst of mourning pawpaw it was just nice to be around people who we love and love our family and to celebrate grandparents. After Lindsay's class sang I walked over to the cafeteria to spend time with my dad and Colby. They were finishing up breakfast when I got in there. It was so cute too...he was sitting at a table with like 4 other boys. They were all so well behaved though. They played Bingo and I just enjoyed watching and hanging out. When they switched I went back into the church so I could hear Colby's group sing. His class was absolutely adorable! I loved it! I left out again so I could then hang out with my mom and Lindsay. They were already finished eating when I got in there. I sat and visited with them a few minutes before we went back into the church to round up Colby and my dad. It was such a sweet morning! I just love our school and school family!
We left and had to come home to hustle to prepare for our trip to Hattiesburg. Since Austin was already up there---there was a lot for me to do. We packed up our stuff and ate lunch and loaded up the van. We met my parents at their house and my mom rode up with us. We got into Hattiesburg about 3:30. We unpacked at the apartment and got settled. We took just a few min to rest and get ourselves together before heading over to Austin's parents. I know Austin was super ready to see us. We got to eat and hang out with his mom and sisters and their families. The kids enjoyed being with Shelbi and Maggie. I think it was a great distraction for them. It seemed to really perk them up. Soon Mrs. Linda's sister arrived and Mr. Jim's 2 brothers and their families. It was a full house! We visited and hung out but once the extended family started leaving I felt like it was time for us to go ahead and head out as well. The kids and I had had a full day and I knew the next day would be much of the same. We said our goodbyes and got back to the apartment. Austin was able to come that night and spend the night with us after helping them clean up. We were glad to have him around. I think we were all pretty tired though.
Saturday we were up bright and early. The funeral started at 9. This was the kid's first funeral and I wasn't sure what to expect. Since we were immediate family we got there a few min before 9 and we were able to view the body and just mourn as a family for awhile. It was hard pulling up to the church and seeing PawPaw's truck but also a hearse. It was so conflicting. Then going in and seeing his body. Again I had no idea what to expect from the kids. Colby of course took it hard but he wasn't scared or overly emotional. He and Maggie just wanted to hang around by the casket. At 9:30 was when extended family and friends started showing up. My parents and Randall and Elizabeth arrived around this time. While they were all there we went to the fellowship hall and let the kids enjoy a donut and walked around some. It was nice to get a break from the sadness. We were back in forth around the church while they visitation lasted 2 hours. The kids were starting to get restless but they really hung in there well considering. At 11:30 the services started. It was about an hour long. It was a beautiful service. I know PawPaw was watching and was proud. After the service we went to the burial. This was an emotional time for everyone. We were out there about 30 + min. After though we went back to the church for lunch. We were all starving! It felt so good to sit down and eat lunch! Colby enjoyed more time with his cousins. After we ate my parents and the kids and I went back to the apartment to pack up and head back to NOLA. I hated to not stay longer but we really needed to get back and we were all so exhausted. We got home around 6 that evening. The kids and I had a light dinner and got ready for bed. Austin got in around 9. I was glad he decided to come on home as well. He was so exhausted that night. Plus I believed we all needed the time to resume life and try to soak up the time together.
Sunday we decided to sleep in and only go to 2nd service. I think we all needed the rest and the quiet. It was nice to take it easy. We still were ready early though so we stopped for coffee on our way. I was able to sit in church for the first 30 min then I had to go into the Fellowship Hall and help with the Scouts. They were volunteering to help out with the Senior Adult Lunch. They were so cute and so well behaved. We stayed for the lunch as well. I was so proud of Colby and his friends and how they acted the entire time! I think the senior adults got quite a hoot out of them as well. Once we helped them clean up a bit we came on home. Once again we were all ready for some rest and hanging out. There was also much to be done around the house.
This Thanksgiving Break started out WAYY different then we imagined or hoped but there was still so much to be thankful for. I am thankful for the life PawPaw lived and all he meant to our family. I am thankful for the way things worked out that we were able to still participate in our holiday stuff but also be there for Austin's family. The weekend was different and a sad time but it also just made me realize how God is in control and He truly takes care of his children.
We left and had to come home to hustle to prepare for our trip to Hattiesburg. Since Austin was already up there---there was a lot for me to do. We packed up our stuff and ate lunch and loaded up the van. We met my parents at their house and my mom rode up with us. We got into Hattiesburg about 3:30. We unpacked at the apartment and got settled. We took just a few min to rest and get ourselves together before heading over to Austin's parents. I know Austin was super ready to see us. We got to eat and hang out with his mom and sisters and their families. The kids enjoyed being with Shelbi and Maggie. I think it was a great distraction for them. It seemed to really perk them up. Soon Mrs. Linda's sister arrived and Mr. Jim's 2 brothers and their families. It was a full house! We visited and hung out but once the extended family started leaving I felt like it was time for us to go ahead and head out as well. The kids and I had had a full day and I knew the next day would be much of the same. We said our goodbyes and got back to the apartment. Austin was able to come that night and spend the night with us after helping them clean up. We were glad to have him around. I think we were all pretty tired though.
Saturday we were up bright and early. The funeral started at 9. This was the kid's first funeral and I wasn't sure what to expect. Since we were immediate family we got there a few min before 9 and we were able to view the body and just mourn as a family for awhile. It was hard pulling up to the church and seeing PawPaw's truck but also a hearse. It was so conflicting. Then going in and seeing his body. Again I had no idea what to expect from the kids. Colby of course took it hard but he wasn't scared or overly emotional. He and Maggie just wanted to hang around by the casket. At 9:30 was when extended family and friends started showing up. My parents and Randall and Elizabeth arrived around this time. While they were all there we went to the fellowship hall and let the kids enjoy a donut and walked around some. It was nice to get a break from the sadness. We were back in forth around the church while they visitation lasted 2 hours. The kids were starting to get restless but they really hung in there well considering. At 11:30 the services started. It was about an hour long. It was a beautiful service. I know PawPaw was watching and was proud. After the service we went to the burial. This was an emotional time for everyone. We were out there about 30 + min. After though we went back to the church for lunch. We were all starving! It felt so good to sit down and eat lunch! Colby enjoyed more time with his cousins. After we ate my parents and the kids and I went back to the apartment to pack up and head back to NOLA. I hated to not stay longer but we really needed to get back and we were all so exhausted. We got home around 6 that evening. The kids and I had a light dinner and got ready for bed. Austin got in around 9. I was glad he decided to come on home as well. He was so exhausted that night. Plus I believed we all needed the time to resume life and try to soak up the time together.
Sunday we decided to sleep in and only go to 2nd service. I think we all needed the rest and the quiet. It was nice to take it easy. We still were ready early though so we stopped for coffee on our way. I was able to sit in church for the first 30 min then I had to go into the Fellowship Hall and help with the Scouts. They were volunteering to help out with the Senior Adult Lunch. They were so cute and so well behaved. We stayed for the lunch as well. I was so proud of Colby and his friends and how they acted the entire time! I think the senior adults got quite a hoot out of them as well. Once we helped them clean up a bit we came on home. Once again we were all ready for some rest and hanging out. There was also much to be done around the house.
This Thanksgiving Break started out WAYY different then we imagined or hoped but there was still so much to be thankful for. I am thankful for the life PawPaw lived and all he meant to our family. I am thankful for the way things worked out that we were able to still participate in our holiday stuff but also be there for Austin's family. The weekend was different and a sad time but it also just made me realize how God is in control and He truly takes care of his children.
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Life and Death
This past week was quite a blur for many reasons! Last weekend Austin got a call from his sister that his dad wasn't doing well. He ended up leaving Sunday afternoon to go be with them. He spent Sunday evening-Tuesday morning there. The kids and I were basically keeping up with our normal routines during that time. Life was extremely busy with our normal schedules plus added holiday stuff. When he got home Tuesday we were able to catch up on some much needed couple and family time. We also were able to play catch up around the house. Wednesday was also nice to have him home. That evening though shortly after the kids and I got home from church his sisters called and said they felt like the end was near. They ended up calling back about 45 min later and said their dad had passed away. Wow what a hard moment! It was a long and eventful night. We found out about 9:15. Colby was still awake so we went ahead and told him the news. He was up until about 11:30. I think knowing Austin was gone and all the news he was just wound up. That morning I chose to sleep in and allow them to sleep in. With getting less sleep and just the heaviness of the news weighing on our minds I just couldn't rush them off to school. I felt it best to allow them time to process and absorb the news. By lunch time though they were good to go and ready to get out. We made plans to eat lunch at the mall with some friends. Originally it would have just been me meeting some friends. I figured it would be good for all of us to go ahead and re-enter the world. I had started to back out but I am thankful we went ahead with plans. I wasn't sure how the kids would feel about going into their classes. I was going to see what Colby wanted to do and I would keep him with me if he didn't want to go up to class. We got to their school though and dropped off their Operation Christmas Child boxes and they both said they wanted to go to class. Lindsay went right in...they were getting things ready for their feast and Colby went upstairs all by himself. I had such a good feeling about being there. Everyone was so kind and gracious and treated the kids with such a sweet spirit. It made me realize in that moment what we had with our school family. I went on to help unload cookie dough. It was nice at that point to visit with friends while we worked. At 2:30 though it was time for the feast with Lindsay's class. I enjoyed being with her and it made her so happy to have me there. It was a sweet time. The kids basically ate a snack and watched a Thanksgiving movie. I enjoyed also visiting with all the preschool teachers. That afternoon we were super busy. We had to drop Allie off at the Vet and then come home prepare dinner and get kids ready for bed...on top of packing for a trip/funeral.
Monday, November 14, 2016
Sweet Slow Weekend
So this weekend we had no plans on our calendar! Such a relief! It feels like these weekends are always few and far between! Its also extremely uncommon for this time of year. It started with Friday the fact that I had no plans. I could have chosen to run errands but I honestly wasn't feeling it. I came home right after dropping them off...something I almost never do! It was a lovely cool and cloudy day. I decided the first item on my agenda was to go for a long walk with our dog Allie. We probably walked 2 miles. It was refreshing just getting out and doing that alone. It was so peaceful. It helped set the tone for the rest of my day.
Once I got home I spent my time working around the house but also resting. I used to feel really guilty for this but I have learned not to. The week is SO busy that sometimes I think God calls us to rest and Be still.
I picked the kids home and we came straight home from school that afternoon which was also bliss. I could tell they were both pretty tired too b/c they really just wanted to veg out in front of the tv which I was honestly ok with. I think we all needed that time. Austin got in around 6:15 and we ate dinner as a family. With everything going on with his dad I am learning to truly treasure those moments as a family. He's been gone so much lately between work and trips to Hattiesburg that a night with all 4 of us at the table eating truly feels like a gift.
We settled in that night to watch A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving with the kids. It was the first day that it felt like the holiday season was approaching.
Saturday Austin was working but it was the first day in awhile that the kids and I haven't had something on our agenda. We decided though to go to the park and invite my parents to tag along. They don't get to hang out with us a whole lot anymore now that the kids are in full time school. It was nice visiting and watching the kids play. The weather is also beautiful and so fall like. After the park the kids and I picked up lunch and came home to rest. I was so thankful to not have any plans. Austin got home at about 4:30. It was nice to spend time with him and get some much needed things done around the house. We had dinner as a family and worked on Colby's book project for school.
Sunday it was nice to have him home although hard knowing he was about to have to leave once again to go out of town. This has been the hardest fall. I hate seeing him so upset about his dad and we also hate having him away so much. He's had to go to Hattiesburg about twice a week for the last 2 months. Needless to say its getting old for both of us. He decided though to hang out with us and go to church before leaving. I was thankful for that b/c the kids really haven't seen him much lately. It was nice to sit in church too together. Lindsay also came into big church. She doesn't like the weeks I don't teach now so she requested to sit with us. I didn't want to fight the battle. I think she's feeling "old" for our little preschool class too. She was the oldest there last Wednesday night. i think she's ok with it when I am there but she doesn't want to do that when she might be alone and not have me. Poor girl I can understand! After church we went to Petsmart b/c we were out of all the pet supplies! I was thankful Austin helped us with that. We also went out to lunch. Again just thankful for the family time. After lunch we dropped him off at home and the kids and I headed out to Target to get the Operation Christmas Child box stuff. I hated it didn't work out this year for us to go as a family. That was my dream...in this season though I am realizing we just have to do the best with what we have and be thankful. I am just glad I could do this project with them. After all that I was pretty wiped out so we came home to rest and watch the SAINTS lose! Lindsay and I both fell asleep. That afternoon we finished up Colby's book project and just hung out around the house. We missed having Austin here. I felt bad b/c the kiddos hung out in front of the tv all afternoon/evening but with it getting dark early and me having so much to do we didn't get much outdoor time. Although I know sometimes God does just call us to rest. We had leftovers for dinner. We will be ready to start a new week though and just take each day 1 day at a time!
Once I got home I spent my time working around the house but also resting. I used to feel really guilty for this but I have learned not to. The week is SO busy that sometimes I think God calls us to rest and Be still.
I picked the kids home and we came straight home from school that afternoon which was also bliss. I could tell they were both pretty tired too b/c they really just wanted to veg out in front of the tv which I was honestly ok with. I think we all needed that time. Austin got in around 6:15 and we ate dinner as a family. With everything going on with his dad I am learning to truly treasure those moments as a family. He's been gone so much lately between work and trips to Hattiesburg that a night with all 4 of us at the table eating truly feels like a gift.
We settled in that night to watch A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving with the kids. It was the first day that it felt like the holiday season was approaching.
Saturday Austin was working but it was the first day in awhile that the kids and I haven't had something on our agenda. We decided though to go to the park and invite my parents to tag along. They don't get to hang out with us a whole lot anymore now that the kids are in full time school. It was nice visiting and watching the kids play. The weather is also beautiful and so fall like. After the park the kids and I picked up lunch and came home to rest. I was so thankful to not have any plans. Austin got home at about 4:30. It was nice to spend time with him and get some much needed things done around the house. We had dinner as a family and worked on Colby's book project for school.
Sunday it was nice to have him home although hard knowing he was about to have to leave once again to go out of town. This has been the hardest fall. I hate seeing him so upset about his dad and we also hate having him away so much. He's had to go to Hattiesburg about twice a week for the last 2 months. Needless to say its getting old for both of us. He decided though to hang out with us and go to church before leaving. I was thankful for that b/c the kids really haven't seen him much lately. It was nice to sit in church too together. Lindsay also came into big church. She doesn't like the weeks I don't teach now so she requested to sit with us. I didn't want to fight the battle. I think she's feeling "old" for our little preschool class too. She was the oldest there last Wednesday night. i think she's ok with it when I am there but she doesn't want to do that when she might be alone and not have me. Poor girl I can understand! After church we went to Petsmart b/c we were out of all the pet supplies! I was thankful Austin helped us with that. We also went out to lunch. Again just thankful for the family time. After lunch we dropped him off at home and the kids and I headed out to Target to get the Operation Christmas Child box stuff. I hated it didn't work out this year for us to go as a family. That was my dream...in this season though I am realizing we just have to do the best with what we have and be thankful. I am just glad I could do this project with them. After all that I was pretty wiped out so we came home to rest and watch the SAINTS lose! Lindsay and I both fell asleep. That afternoon we finished up Colby's book project and just hung out around the house. We missed having Austin here. I felt bad b/c the kiddos hung out in front of the tv all afternoon/evening but with it getting dark early and me having so much to do we didn't get much outdoor time. Although I know sometimes God does just call us to rest. We had leftovers for dinner. We will be ready to start a new week though and just take each day 1 day at a time!
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
Sometimes Life Is just Hard
I feel like this fall has been marked by sadness in our family. So first Austin's dad diagnosed with cancer and its progressing very, very quickly and no one expects him to make it much longer. Then my young cousin dying from a car accident a couple of weeks ago. Its just been a crazy fall. In the midst I am trying to hold it all together and stay strong for the kids. I have worked really hard to keep their lives as normal as possible during this time.
Sunday morning we received that call that Austin's dad had a blood clot travel to his lungs in the middle of the night. Austin was very upset and made plans to get up there on Monday. He left Monday mid-day. I know he was a big help and encourager to his mom. They hung out all Monday afternoon and evening. I think he was up most of the night with his dad.
Tuesday he was gone all day. It was a normal day though. I had Bible study. I was actually in charge of leading this weeks. I was nervous but not nearly as nervous as I would have been a year or more ago. It went well and luckily the video is pretty lengthy so I didn't have to do much. I am again so thankful for these ladies that God has placed in my life. After Bible study I was able to go vote. I was glad to get that done. This election has been so crazy! I was thankful for some time to myself that afternoon before going to pick up the kids. I was anxious for Austin to get back home. It was great he got home shortly after the kids and I did. We were able to have a nice family dinner and walk. Colby has had a lot of home work though this week. I hate he spends over an hour after school working. I wish teachers would understand that kids need time with their families. We teach them though that they have to do their work and to try and get it over with as quickly as possible.
Wednesday I decided to go to Target and then meet a friend for breakfast/coffee. It just lifts my spirits when I manage to do that once a week! We had a great time catching up and I was still able to get home early enough to have a good bit of time to catch up on stuff and prepare for church that night. We of course had church that evening. We had 7 preschoolers! That's a lot on Wednesdays! i had fun though. God has renewed my energy and spirit when it comes to teaching. This month I decided to do a focus on Thankfulness and Community Helpers. This week I chose not to do a Bible story and we focused on the missional work instead. I think both are important. I was thankful I had planned a lot for them to do since the time change we can't go outside. I had coloring pages for them to do when they arrived along with costumes and books. We went into the Clubhouse to do music/movement for about 20 min. I knew without outside time they needed a change of scenery and a place to get the wiggles out! After we got back to class we made our cards for the Community Helpers. I was thankful for how well they all did. They then got to eat a cookie and then we did our last craft making a trash truck which they all loved! It was a really fun night and I feel like they really got it! To close the evening I read 2 books about community helpers to them.
Thursday was another busy day for me. It was off to school and music class. I am really enjoying my sweet little preschoolers at music. This week we once again did some Turkey and Thanksgiving songs and practiced for our singing in church. Thursdays always feel like they go by so fast though. I don't get home until 12 and then by the time I eat lunch put my feet up a bit and do some chores around the house its time to go pick up the kids. Then the madness continues with homework and dinner before Scouts. This week at Scouts we were altogether and were supposed to re-cap the camping trip but I am not sure that ever happened b/c the kids were so wild! We ended up closing up early. I was thankful though. Mid-week is so busy and hard for me!
Sunday morning we received that call that Austin's dad had a blood clot travel to his lungs in the middle of the night. Austin was very upset and made plans to get up there on Monday. He left Monday mid-day. I know he was a big help and encourager to his mom. They hung out all Monday afternoon and evening. I think he was up most of the night with his dad.
Tuesday he was gone all day. It was a normal day though. I had Bible study. I was actually in charge of leading this weeks. I was nervous but not nearly as nervous as I would have been a year or more ago. It went well and luckily the video is pretty lengthy so I didn't have to do much. I am again so thankful for these ladies that God has placed in my life. After Bible study I was able to go vote. I was glad to get that done. This election has been so crazy! I was thankful for some time to myself that afternoon before going to pick up the kids. I was anxious for Austin to get back home. It was great he got home shortly after the kids and I did. We were able to have a nice family dinner and walk. Colby has had a lot of home work though this week. I hate he spends over an hour after school working. I wish teachers would understand that kids need time with their families. We teach them though that they have to do their work and to try and get it over with as quickly as possible.
Wednesday I decided to go to Target and then meet a friend for breakfast/coffee. It just lifts my spirits when I manage to do that once a week! We had a great time catching up and I was still able to get home early enough to have a good bit of time to catch up on stuff and prepare for church that night. We of course had church that evening. We had 7 preschoolers! That's a lot on Wednesdays! i had fun though. God has renewed my energy and spirit when it comes to teaching. This month I decided to do a focus on Thankfulness and Community Helpers. This week I chose not to do a Bible story and we focused on the missional work instead. I think both are important. I was thankful I had planned a lot for them to do since the time change we can't go outside. I had coloring pages for them to do when they arrived along with costumes and books. We went into the Clubhouse to do music/movement for about 20 min. I knew without outside time they needed a change of scenery and a place to get the wiggles out! After we got back to class we made our cards for the Community Helpers. I was thankful for how well they all did. They then got to eat a cookie and then we did our last craft making a trash truck which they all loved! It was a really fun night and I feel like they really got it! To close the evening I read 2 books about community helpers to them.
Thursday was another busy day for me. It was off to school and music class. I am really enjoying my sweet little preschoolers at music. This week we once again did some Turkey and Thanksgiving songs and practiced for our singing in church. Thursdays always feel like they go by so fast though. I don't get home until 12 and then by the time I eat lunch put my feet up a bit and do some chores around the house its time to go pick up the kids. Then the madness continues with homework and dinner before Scouts. This week at Scouts we were altogether and were supposed to re-cap the camping trip but I am not sure that ever happened b/c the kids were so wild! We ended up closing up early. I was thankful though. Mid-week is so busy and hard for me!
Girls/Boys and a little Camping and Dancing
This weekend was special and very busy! It was nice b/c I felt like each kid got their time to shine and enjoy being the center of attention. So Friday after school Austin scooped Colby up from carpool and they headed off to go camping. This was a cub scout outting. I had truly thought about going as well but I knew with being sick and having so much going on right now I didn't and couldn't be out the house for 1/2 the weekend. Instead I looked forward to a girl's night with Lindsay. I picked her up from school and we stopped at the library. We rarely get to go now with her being in full day school. We used to go a lot the last few years when she was in preschool. She picked out SEVERAL books and was excited! After we ate an early dinner at Panera. We got home around 5:15 and I could tell she was already tired and wanted to wind down. She didn't even want to play outside. I turned on a cartoon for her and let her watch that until bath time. She even got to take a Princess bath in our big tub! She loved that! She picked out a movie at the library so that is what we watched for movie night. It didn't last long though so I had her in bed by 7:30. I think she was glad though. Poor girl was so tired! From what I heard from the boys they had a great time! They didn't settle in though until after 10:30. I think several families were late arriving. I was so thankful that Austin and Colby got there while it was still daylight.
On Saturday she and I were up bright and early! Well I got up at 6 and she got to sleep until 7. I was thankful for that hour to myself to get ready and get some things accomplished. I even had time to sit down and work on my Bible study a bit. Once she was up we were in full gear of getting ready to head out! We got ourselves together and left a few min before 8! We had to stop and pick up our sandwiches at Rouses then we were on road. The trip up was good...it went by fast. Honestly it was nice to just be able to drive and listen to the radio. L was a great travel partner. We got to the campground around 9:15. I think they had just finished up breakfast. When we got there they were preparing for their hike. I think we left on the hike around 10. It was probably a 3 mile hike both ways. I was proud of the kids! They both did great but were so tired when we got back. I think all the kids were. We didn't get to see many animals really just an alligator and some butterflies but it was still so nice and peaceful in the woods. We walked up to the lake as well just to take in the beauty and scenery for a few moments. Once we got back to camp it was about 11:30. By that time it was lunch time and everyone was hungry. Since we were providing lunch we got everything set out. The food went FAST! Everyone loved the sandwiches, chips, apples, and juice pouches. After lunch we all sat and visited for a bit before people starting taking down and packing up their tents and supplies. We left around 1. It was sad to see it all end but I think everyone had fun but was also ready to get back home. We arrived back home around 3. It was nice to all put our feet up for awhile. That night we just hung out around the house. Austin made wings and we enjoyed some good ole family time!
Sunday was church day! Austin was back at work so it was just the kids and I. The day went really well. Some times there are just those days of teaching where I leave so encouraged and uplifted. We had 10 kids and they were all so sweet and truly seemed like they "got" the lesson and just enjoyed being there! Those are the weeks that make the hard weeks worth it! I left really encouraged! I left at 1st service with Lindsay b/c she had dance class that afternoon. Colby stayed for both services and went home with my parents. I enjoyed a little more time with just her. I love having them both around but sometimes just having one and especially girl time is so great and relaxing. We ate lunch and watched a show and then it was about time to start getting ready for dance. We had arranged to ride over with our friends Cindy and Layla. It worked out so well and the girls had a blast! I was so glad we could re-connect and hang out! I think Lindsay had more fun at this class since she had a friend. I had more fun as well. Cindy and I went to PJs while the girls were dancing! It was so much fun! I hope we can do a repeat in December. This month they did Lion King. Next Month is The Nutcracker. By the time we left and got colby and got headed home Austin was home. We decided to just swing by and pick him up and go out to Cane's. Again it was just a nice time the 4 of us. After that we were all exhausted and ready for bedtime! It was truly a great weekend and I am thankful for the time we had with each of our kids and that they both got to do something special with friends!
On Saturday she and I were up bright and early! Well I got up at 6 and she got to sleep until 7. I was thankful for that hour to myself to get ready and get some things accomplished. I even had time to sit down and work on my Bible study a bit. Once she was up we were in full gear of getting ready to head out! We got ourselves together and left a few min before 8! We had to stop and pick up our sandwiches at Rouses then we were on road. The trip up was good...it went by fast. Honestly it was nice to just be able to drive and listen to the radio. L was a great travel partner. We got to the campground around 9:15. I think they had just finished up breakfast. When we got there they were preparing for their hike. I think we left on the hike around 10. It was probably a 3 mile hike both ways. I was proud of the kids! They both did great but were so tired when we got back. I think all the kids were. We didn't get to see many animals really just an alligator and some butterflies but it was still so nice and peaceful in the woods. We walked up to the lake as well just to take in the beauty and scenery for a few moments. Once we got back to camp it was about 11:30. By that time it was lunch time and everyone was hungry. Since we were providing lunch we got everything set out. The food went FAST! Everyone loved the sandwiches, chips, apples, and juice pouches. After lunch we all sat and visited for a bit before people starting taking down and packing up their tents and supplies. We left around 1. It was sad to see it all end but I think everyone had fun but was also ready to get back home. We arrived back home around 3. It was nice to all put our feet up for awhile. That night we just hung out around the house. Austin made wings and we enjoyed some good ole family time!
Sunday was church day! Austin was back at work so it was just the kids and I. The day went really well. Some times there are just those days of teaching where I leave so encouraged and uplifted. We had 10 kids and they were all so sweet and truly seemed like they "got" the lesson and just enjoyed being there! Those are the weeks that make the hard weeks worth it! I left really encouraged! I left at 1st service with Lindsay b/c she had dance class that afternoon. Colby stayed for both services and went home with my parents. I enjoyed a little more time with just her. I love having them both around but sometimes just having one and especially girl time is so great and relaxing. We ate lunch and watched a show and then it was about time to start getting ready for dance. We had arranged to ride over with our friends Cindy and Layla. It worked out so well and the girls had a blast! I was so glad we could re-connect and hang out! I think Lindsay had more fun at this class since she had a friend. I had more fun as well. Cindy and I went to PJs while the girls were dancing! It was so much fun! I hope we can do a repeat in December. This month they did Lion King. Next Month is The Nutcracker. By the time we left and got colby and got headed home Austin was home. We decided to just swing by and pick him up and go out to Cane's. Again it was just a nice time the 4 of us. After that we were all exhausted and ready for bedtime! It was truly a great weekend and I am thankful for the time we had with each of our kids and that they both got to do something special with friends!
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Halloween 2016
I can hardly believe another Halloween has come and gone!! The years just pass so quickly! So this year Halloween fell on a Monday! The last time this occurred Colby was 3 and he was still in preschool and didn't have to attend school the next day. It felt weird with it being on a Monday and it being so hot outside. The kids both had a regular day of school which felt weird too! For the first time in many years no parties or special events! I had to grocery shop. I was glad Austin was home to help me with the preparations for the evening though. After I grocery shopped and put everything away I went up to Aurora to see the kids for their Halloween parties. I wasn't up there at all last week due to being sick. I really missed the kids! It felt so weird attending the parties but not having a child there. I mostly visited in Mrs. Breaux's class room and Mrs. Susan's. I guess I feel the most connection to them since both of my kids had Susan and Mrs. Breaux's class is the age Lindsay is. It was fun to see the kids enjoying their special day! Oh how I miss those simple times for my kids. I was able to help Susan out some too which I was glad. The kids spent the last 30 min of the morning outside so I just enjoyed visiting with the teachers. Once I got home Austin and I ate lunch and rested. That afternoon was filled with party prep! The kids got home from school and believe it or not Colby had homework! It took us an hour. I really felt bad for him! If I were a teacher I would definitely not give homework on Halloween night. Like I say last time it fell on a Monday he was 3 so we didn't have these issues! Luckily it worked out though and we got it all completed just in time for our company to arrive! We invited the Welbourne's over this year in addition to my family of course. We always invite my parents and R&E over and we also always try to include a friend. I would have invited more people but with it being a school night I figured most people wanted to stay close to home. Everyone arrived around 5ish. We ate shortly after that and the kids played. They were antsy around 5:30 to get going on their trick or treating but we were still waiting on Randall and Elizabeth to arrive. They got here close to 6. Once they ate we all headed out on our Halloween adventure. My parents and Randall stayed here as usual to hand out candy. It was different going trick or treating in a new neighborhood. I feel like the kids had a lot of fun though. We missed our old neighborhood and the many familiar faces. This neighborhood was really alive though with decorations and people just sitting out in their yards. It was like a big neighborhood block party. the kids had a blast! The only downside was all the mosquitoes! I probably ended up with 20 bites! that was a bummer! Once the kids filled up their bags and we were eaten alive we came back home. They were able to watch a short Halloween cartoon and eat 1 piece of candy before heading off to baths and bed. It was a great night! I felt like we did it really well for a school night! We had them in bed by 8:45 or so which wasn't terrible!
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