Treasure every moment

Today in church I watched him sleep. Tucked close to me. His hair- the little he has- tosses over his head. Perfect eyelashes on pink, chubby cheeks. His little lips puckered like he is dreaming of bottles. His little hand is wrapped around my finger. And I think he is perfect. As the anticipation swells with Christmas wish lists, wrapping and bows, I think to myself that truly I need nothing. I have it all.

Luke 2:16-19
^"16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. ¹⁷ When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, ¹⁸ and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. ¹⁹ But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."

I think about this scripture often in the quiet moments with my children. I wonder what Mary knew and what she didn't. She knew the scripture. Did she have any idea on what was to come. Perhaps she didn't. Either way, we as parents  can do no more to change our children's destiny than she could have.

But what can I do? Treasure up all these things and ponder them in my heart. It was no guarantee that Nick would be ok. My health was not good and as my pregnancy progressed I wondered if he was ok. I held my breath at each appointment. I remember not even thinking of checking gender at my ultrasound. I just wanted to hear he was ok. And now here he is. Beautiful, healthy, and perfect.

Tonight as I fixed Rachel's hair I remembered this verse. She laughed and chatted as I straightened her hair. She hates her curly hair. Although I love it, I have been promising that I would try to straighten it. So I did and she danced and laughed in the mirror. She came and threw her arms around me. And I treasured it in my heart. My 6 year old princess who someday will dance to her own tune.

When William climbs into my bed at night, I noticed how much bigger he is getting. This morning I noticed how short his pants are getting. How many more Christmas do we have with the magic of childhood with him? As he snuggles close, sweats all over me, and snores like his father, I treasure it in my heart.

Bella put on a dance show for me today. She begins (always) by shouting "Presenting Bella Demi." She wiggles all around and blows kisses during her show. Then she grabs my hands and says "dance mommy!" I join her on stage and twirl and toss her around. We flip our hair and jump up and down. Treasuring every second.

Luke crawls up on my lap during church. One moment he is my rough and tumble guy and the next he is mama's boy. He looks up with those heart stopping eyes to say "your the best." He closes his hand around mine. Someday when this boy towers over me I will remember him sitting here. I will remember his hands.

I don't know what was going through Mary's mind when shepherds, wise men, people from all over were showing up. But from one mother to another I am sure she was dreaming of his future while treasuring his here and now. When I think of all I have, I just want to hold on a little longer and a little tighter. This Christmas that is what I plan to do. Treasure every moment.

Happy December!

So...I missed the rest of November. I was doing our thankful thing. Just not on here. My computer went down and my lap top crashed. I will have to post a picture of our thankful chain.  And then the whole sick thing.

But now it is December. The most overwhelming month of the year!! This is how I feel....

That is how November was. And if we make it through December I will be saying the same! Actually, I have always said how frightened I am on pintrest. I don't need more amo to make me feel inadequate. I could tell you how I locked my keys in the van with all 5 kids and myself standing outside. Or about family Christmas pictures complete with nose bleeds, lollipop attacks, and the royal rumble. (nose bleed was not in connection with royal rumble).  However, my friends, Scott took the 3 big ones to a movie and two little ones have been sleeping for an hour. I am going to curl up with my book until sleep overtakes me. Hopefully soon. Happy December!

Dat 15 and 16

Today I am thankful for my job. That is sort of the reason that I didn't get a chance to post yesterday. It was at reading competition and we didn't get home until 9:30. Then I thought about opening up my computer and then quickly changed my mind.
I am thankful for the children I work with, the fellow educators I teach with, and the opportunities I am granted.
And since I am a day behind I can add that I am thankful for pumpkin pie. ;)

Day 14- friendship

Today I am thankful for friendship. Now, I don't mean to brag, but I have some amazing friends. And my friends span the spectrum. Young single friends with no kids, mommy friends, work friends, older friends (who assure me that someday I will sleep again and be able to sit for half a second).  I have been getting texts from friends asking about my grandma. Work friends stopping in to ask, to chat. I have friends who I may not have seen for a bit (because they LEFT me-not bitter or anything ;) ) but we talk as if not a moment has passed. I have friends I go to who always have a shoulder for me to cry on. Friends I know will pray for me, encourage me, and give me a kick in the butt when I need it! I don't take any of them for granted. I have friends who I know God hand picked for me. I have friends who make me a better person, mom, wife, teacher, and Christian.
“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: "What! You too? I thought I was the only one.”
― C.S. Lewis

Day 13- chior

Today I am thankful for choir. I have always loved to sing. Mom always tells of me making up my own songs and singing and dancing while I walked home from the bus in kindergarten. I love music. I have found over the years that singing is "my thing" in reaching out to God. I feel closest to Him when I am lifting my voice in praise or grief. In times of doubt or assurance. I am blessed that I get to sing with a group of believers and that we are led by such a Godly committed leader. Choir is my place.

Day 12- Always

I  do my cryin' in the shower. Grandma is not feeling well. Filled with pain and wanting "to go home." I wrote about Grandma Yackuboskey here. Check it out. Although the numbers are a bit off (more weddings and babies) we are quite the family. When I got the call that mom was going to the hospital to see Grandma, I froze. Not because I don't know where she is heading. Sure as the sky is blue Grandma will be dancing with Grandpa someday...but because that shadow comes close. Close and I remember. I remember the pain and shock.  Who knows what tomorrow may bring, but I remember yesterday. As I showered and cried and told God how unfair death was,  my heart was suddenly quieted. Sure as anything this scripture came to mind. Recited quietly. Like a promise.

PSALM 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. 3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.  6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.


Who knows the hour for any of us?The Bible tells us that we are all but vapor, here today and gone tomorrow.
Today I am thankful for the word of God. Not for the book of stories. Or instructions, rules, and laws. But today I am thankful that the word of God can touch us in our darkest places and give us hope. Hope that even in our darkest days, we do not walk alone. He is with us. He is there to comfort. Someday we can all dwell in the house of he Lord together.
"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 Thank you God for your promise
Always

Day 9, 10, 11

I missed two days! But day one my son was using my laptop and I fell asleep. Day two I asked husband to bring up the laptop, but I fell asleep! Tonight it is 8:30 already and I better hurry because I want to...fall asleep.

Day 9 I was thankful for a sense of humor. I was off and trying to clean. I was in another room when my children decided that they wanted to go "ice skating." They coated the floor in soap and tried to slip and slide skate. Actually they did a pretty nice job until mommy found them.

Day 10 I am thankful for getting things done. I did a crazy amount of laundry. This was in addition to cleaning up a crazy little boy sleepover and getting ready for a chuck-e-cheese party. Scott told me I should have said I was thankful for chuck-e-cheese. Umm...great that the kids have fun there, but..oh my.

Today of course I am so very thankful for the vetrans and active service men and women. They are the very definition of what heroic means. We are blessed and so very thankful for the many things that would not be possible without their service.

And now...I am thankful for sleep!

Day 8- weekend

Today after 12 hours at school, I am thankful for a 4 day weekend. And after 12 hours at school, that is all I got.

Day 7- heaven

 Today I am thankful for heaven.

Day 6- voting

Today I am thankful for the right to vote. I am so thankful that I live in a country where free men and woman are given this opportunity to choose the leader of the free world. I am thankful for the opportunity to express our views and our opinions.

election day humor-
Luke said today in school he voted for the blue guy. Rachel voted for the guy who was in a car accident cause she felt bad?

As I was having a very colorful rant about politics, I looked to my eldest son for his opinion to which he replied, "sorry but I stopped listening after the pick you nose or scratch you butt or pick your butt and scratch your nose. It was hilarious." I know I have heard that saying before but can't remember where.

On non-election news, when doing our thankful chain (we were two behind) Rachel wrote clothes and books. Will wrote meat and drinks. Luke said markers and books(be still my heart). Bella is thankful for the Kindle and apples. BTW daddy was thankful for safe travel (since we found out there was a major problem with his truck we were unaware of) and Jesus. Mommy was thankful for living in America and laughing at Nick playing with his feet. We are simple people around here.

Day 5- medicine

Today I am thankful for modern medicine. I had a different thankful item today but I have not been having a good time with the stomach after a very nice week and a half run. I am thankful that when I feel my worst I do get some relief with medication. Although it may not bring as much as I want at the moment....However, I am hopeful that soon this may be over. Soon someone will be able to help. And thankful that until that happens I have medicine that can help.

Day-4 brothers and sisters

I am thankful for the first friends God has given me- my brothers and sisters.

My brother Doug and I were first and best friends. We played together, had the same friends. We camped, rode bikes, played baseball and got sunburned, and played hockey on the frozen pond. Now, he is a man whom I respect and cherish. I know he doesn't think what he does as heroic. But I do. He serves his country in the United States Air Force, and loves his nieces and nephews. His compassion for all people does inspire me and sometimes (but don't tell him) he makes me think. He challenges us to look beyond ourselves and look to helping others. He does this in his own quiet way. Never would he take credit for all of the kindness he bestows on others, but I think he is pretty awesome.

I told my kids a couple of weeks ago that Uncle Joe and I got into a lot of fights as kids and I would kick his butt. Luke looked at me with his big brown eyes and said "You are lying! I am telling Uncle Joe you said that!" I laughed the day one of my kids asked me if Joe was my bigger brother now. I can see why since he towers over me. Words cannot tell you how proud I am of this kid. He has come through trials and tribulations that most couldn't dream about. He stands tall of who he is now. He is a man of God who seconds only to his mother in proclaiming the changing power of Jesus Christ. He pours his heart into his family. "Uncle Joe" is one of my kids favorite people. Even though I will always be the big sister, I do look up to the person he has become.

Patty has the biggest heart of anyone I know. She is the defender of the weak and will fight for those who can't. She loves her family fiercely and I can't wait to see the wife and mother she will become. She is the one of us who most closely walks like my mother. Her faith in God is undeniable as she is outspoken on her foundation. Patty is the person you go to when you need a kind word, a shoulder to cry on, or another warrior to your cause. She loves people completely and passionately. She is also a teacher, an advocate, and a fighter for special need kids. She reminds me to keep fighting and keep loving.

Finally, the baby- Christina Jean. She is the straighter talker and kick you in the butt when you need it. She isn't afraid to tell you what you need. In a world where everyone is so worried about saying the right thing, she is refreshing to know you can count on her for the truth. She is also loyal to her family. She is kind and caring. When Christy loves, she gives her whole heart and soul. I never met anyone who goes after her goals as she does. She is driven and committed. She inspires to dream about possibilities. She believes life has no limits and actually has me believing her! She is always a phone call away and hug when you need it. We tease her about being the touchy feely one, but she is always there when you need her.

Sometimes people are amazed to find out that I have 5 kids in this day and age. But I am always draw back to my own childhood. My own experiences. I think of these guys. My brothers and sisters. My lifelong, always got your back friends. I smile. I see the bonds my children are creating and know what a ride they are in for with each other.

Day 3-mom

Today and everyday I am thankful for my mom.  This is another area where I feel words are lacking in appreciation for her.

Until I was married and had kids of my own, I didn't realize how truly awesome my mom is. And I know (almost) everyone can go on about how awesome their mom is-but truly I think I got the top of the line.

When I was a kid, my mom was my best friend. I could sit and talk for hours with her. She was ironing, cooking, cleaning, or doing something and I was rambling on about boys, friends, God, or just about anything. She would listen and comment. Laugh or cry. My mom was always the first one I wanted to talk to about a problem or tell her something awesome that happened.

I remember when I got the flu the first time after I was married. I was puking and crying and I told Scott to call my mom. For what he had asked. Just because I want her to know I am sick and to pray for me. I just wanted mom to know.

I have never once called her and she not been able to be there for me. Never. I have called at all hours asking her questions about the kids, asked if she could watch them, or just needed to hear her tell me things would be ok. She has. Every time.

As time passes, I feel like I see my mom as more amazing as the year go on. She has been to hell and back and never once has doubted her faith. She walked us to Church in 3 feet of snow drifts as children to praise the Lord and tells is daily as adults to never let go of Christ. She is the picture of a woman on her knees for her children. Through crisis after crisis for each of us she never has given up. She will tell you she knew God was on her side and all would be OK. Even when others doubted, she knew. She lives her faith.

She created a home where her kids felt comforted and blessed. In that home, I know my own children, her grandchildren, are loved, spoiled, and comforted. As adults, we joke and fight about who she would live with if it ever came to that. She doesn't want to be a burden. She doesn't realize how blessed each of us feels to be able to repay her just a sliver of all she has given and sacrificed for us.

If I am half the mother she is, I will surly be worth more than gold or rubies. Truly for my mother, her children rise us and call her blessed.

Day 2- My babies

The most precious jewels I will ever wear around my neck are the arms of my children.

~ Author Unknown

Day 2....woo-hoo. 2 for 2. On day two I would like to thank God for the gift of my children. There isn't a day that goes by that I do not thank God for these little miracles he has blessed me with. Each one of them has brought such joy, laughter, and peace to me. Sometimes when I look at them (when they are sleeping of course) and wonder what I ever did to deserve such goodness. Thank-you God for each and every one of them. For Will's laughter. For Rachel's kind soul. For Luke's unhindered joy. For Bella's thoughtfulness. For Nick's sweet smile. God has been so very good to me.

November- Day 1 Scott

November!! I love November because I love, love. love Thanksgiving. No, not for the meal- although that is good. But because of what it stands for. pure and simple thankfulness. Calling to mind all that I have been given and just feeling grateful.

Unfortunately, I was at work extra late today and my stomach is having yet again another flare up. I was going to wait until tomorrow but today is November first. And perhaps it is best that this is short and simple.

On day 1 I am most grateful for my first God given blessing of my husband. I could hands down list time after time where he has saved the day for me. Taking care of me when I need him. Doing simple little wonderful things for me, like making sure I always have a glass of water at night. Surprising me with flowers or just texting me that he loves me.

I am grateful that he picked me. I am grateful for the life we build together. I am thankful that he never gave up on me when I didn't believe in myself. I am grateful that he makes me feel like I am worth it even when I doubt.

He is undoubtedly the best man I have ever met. He is kind, compassionate, and a friend to everyone. He is the best father ever.

I am blessed to have him by my side. And for that I am most grateful.

Pumpkin carving!!

He totally was not into the pumpkin carving. Started screaming 2 minutes into it so I put him in bed. Nighty-night

Luke is ready to get down to buisness.

Rachel said her pumpkin was so beautiful she didn't know if she could carve it. She got over that quickly....

Will was very exact. He was thrilled that he was allowed to use the carving tools this year.

Bella was not impressed with this whole reaching in a pumpkin thing. She kept gaging...

Rachel really getting into it. Bella in the background still not so much.

Scary vampire pumpkin

scary sharp teeth pumpkin. Willow has jet black eyes really. Kind of freaky

So proud

His took forever. He wanted it to be perfect.

Bella's kitty pumpkin

Alittle scary with the candles

Rachel's vampire.

All out on the front porch

Will's flame face guy. Awesome job.

Scarier with the candles. He was so proud. He told me to put it on the internet. ;)

Scott's pumpkin. He did an awesome job.

Finally Luke's. Just gotta smile.

hurricanes?

     One of my most favorite things of being a teacher (next to the honor of molding young minds and touching the future and all that...) is the call of a snow day. However, note to self, add this to the things I should not do- When phone rings and school is canceled and daughter who is terrified of even itty bitty storms asks "why is school canceled mom?" Do NOT answer "because of the hurricane." Cause then you are in a whole mess of trouble. Then you have to lie and tell her that it is no big deal. It is a little rain. She hides under her bed and keeps telling me to look out the window and tell her when it stops raining. Heaven help us if we do actually lose power.
     For the most part, the kids are over the moon about no school. As was I, until my son told me "we can play games and eat Halloween candy and go crazy all day."  Umm.....  Will and I already have a plan. We (teamwork here) are going to have a nap time tomorrow. This will commence whenever the baby will sleep. Then he and I are going to sneak into my room to read. He is now into Diary of a wimpy kid and I am reading the new Percy Jackson novel.
     I, of course, am hoping for the best scenario here. We get rain and a day off. Keep power and have a nice warm day. It never even occurred to me that perhaps we should "prepare" until schools started canceling a day ahead of time. I had my facebook status say this..."no candles. no flashlights. no make ahead meals or prepping. Just kind of going by the it is never as bad as they say method. BUT we are out of ketchup. My husband couldn't get his coat and shoes on fast enough. ;)"  True story. He did pick up a couple of random candles at the dollar store. Which are burning right now cause Scott thought they smelled good. We are not really good at this whole prepare thing. Kind of like last minute run around like crazy and hope for the best people.


     Other interesting news...I gave Luke a hug tonight and asked him why he smelled of cologne, he looked at me and said "How should I know...ask the rabbi" If you don't get it then you have to watch Madagascar 3. Which is also on our to do list tomorrow.....     

Corn Maze fun

Doesn't this just say it all....... On our way to find spongebob!

On our way in! We are off to look for spongebob and seven of his closet friends. Really the kids just wanted to run around and scream. Sounded good to me.

All Bella wanted to do was find Gary. She was so excited when we found him. I never realized their close relationship.

Pearl!

Rachel told me to take her picture with Squidward.

Daddy helping out.

Little man was not so excited.

Finally!! We found Plankton! We were all thrilled by this point! ;)

Smile pretty!

Looking for the perfect pumpkin.

Rachel said hers was the best...of course

Luke wants to haul them all....again, of course.

She thought all the decorations were the best. Since her mother does not decorate. Hey...we are lucky if I can keep it clean!

playing in the corn!

Burying Rachel. Ahhhhh.......

some cute kids



I do love October! The leaves, the football, pumpkin (muffins from dunkin donuts, ummmm), and weather still has not headed south quite yet. Unfortunately, my health (stomach issues and all) certainly has taken a turn for the worse. BUT on the positive side this is the first weekend in over a month where I have not been sick, crying in pain, or visiting an ER (knocking on all the wood I can find). There were times when I wanted to jot something down so I could remember but just couldn't get here. But again, I also ate today. Which is again a vast improvement. Perhaps, my current medication may help. I certainly would appreciate any prayers your could spare. I go back to my specialist November 19th. Right now we are just trying out some meds. Hopefully when I return we may come up with a better plan of action. Now on to some cute kids!

Seriously? This kid is too adorable. He totally put this look together himself. He likes to look "cool" he says. Look how clean he looks! Of course this is before we left the house.

My boys at the wedding. How handsome. Do not bring up that Will is in a purple shirt. Just trust me.

 Daddy and his girls.

 Two of my heroes who saved the day when I had to exit said wedding. They kept all *5* kids and danced and played while husband took me to the ER. Sigh... Then they took the kids home. Seriously, what would I do without my family?

 The only pic I got of us before we had to leave.

 Playing games....surprise, surprise

 Rachel with her hero

 My boy. I told him to smile. This is what I get.

 And of course my munchkin!

That's a day

This is my Friday night....and I love it. And Will just offered to make me popcorn. Ahhhh...let the nothing begin.