I enjoyed my walk yesterday listening to the sounds of the insect world, but there is one sound I don't care for; "Mom! I ITCH!!" #2 unknowingly discovered chiggers Thursday. He went to visit a friend, and they went into the woods to play paintball. Evidently the wood is infested with chiggers, tiny red bugs that make you itch like nothing else.
He woke up scratching early Friday morning. When I found him a few hours later, he was covered in bites from head to toe. We have treated him with Chiggerex, and he is putting cold packs on the worst areas. He is also taking Benadryl around the clock.
I told him this lasts about a week, and then it clears up. But that is just a ruse. The blamed things will "come back to life" a week or so after that! Chiggers are a nasty business.
I co-taught a Study Skills Seminar last week for the homeschoolers. #2 participated, though Friday was difficult for him to sit through. One of the activities was to fill out a career inventory to see what things interest the children. Then they can think about that as they make high school schedules and plans.
Of course #2 came up with Agriculture and Natural Resources as his interest area. I hope he finds something in a dry area with little in the way of poison ivy and/or chiggers!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Make a Joyful Noise
I left the doctor's office Monday with a big smile on my face. He told me I could do whatever I want- and then backtracked when he found out what I wanted to do- but the air cast was off and mostly can stay off now! I gave a "Yes!" and raised my arms in the air as I left. The other patients seemed to understand. That cast is HOT!
I was told not to walk for exercise for a week, but I finally had to venture out today. We had rain last night, and I just couldn't stay cooped up in here any longer.
The wet earth and cloudy sky made the sounds around me so much more distinct, and I enjoyed my quiet, slow, and yes, short walk. The songbirds were glad for a respite from the hot, dry weather, and a robin was calling to its mate from the woods behind the corn field. As I rounded the corner a hawk took off through the loblolly pine and shrieked its call through the sky above.
Locusts were scratching out their sounds to any who would listen, and the crickets and grasshoppers were chiming in with their own song of joy. Frogs of various breeds chirruped and croaked, happy to at last have a little puddle of water to relax in.
The rhythmic thump, thump of a horse scratching its leg with its teeth made me pause to listen to the lean beasts chomp the grass that greened up with the new rain. The dog whined as she rolled in the dirt to scratch the itchy fleas. Other insects made their presence known as butterflies floated above the wildflowers while a mosquito whined in my ear.
The air was heavy with humidity, but also with the smell of damp earth and newness of life. The fields were dark green speckled with yellow, purple, and fuschia color where weeds and wildflowers gained a grasp of the ground beneath them. It looked beautiful, smelled wonderful, but sounded divine.
The world was worshiping the Lord of Life, and I was a part of that small chorus of praise.
I was told not to walk for exercise for a week, but I finally had to venture out today. We had rain last night, and I just couldn't stay cooped up in here any longer.
The wet earth and cloudy sky made the sounds around me so much more distinct, and I enjoyed my quiet, slow, and yes, short walk. The songbirds were glad for a respite from the hot, dry weather, and a robin was calling to its mate from the woods behind the corn field. As I rounded the corner a hawk took off through the loblolly pine and shrieked its call through the sky above.
Locusts were scratching out their sounds to any who would listen, and the crickets and grasshoppers were chiming in with their own song of joy. Frogs of various breeds chirruped and croaked, happy to at last have a little puddle of water to relax in.
The rhythmic thump, thump of a horse scratching its leg with its teeth made me pause to listen to the lean beasts chomp the grass that greened up with the new rain. The dog whined as she rolled in the dirt to scratch the itchy fleas. Other insects made their presence known as butterflies floated above the wildflowers while a mosquito whined in my ear.
The air was heavy with humidity, but also with the smell of damp earth and newness of life. The fields were dark green speckled with yellow, purple, and fuschia color where weeds and wildflowers gained a grasp of the ground beneath them. It looked beautiful, smelled wonderful, but sounded divine.
The world was worshiping the Lord of Life, and I was a part of that small chorus of praise.
Sunday, August 07, 2011
Ready
I have nearly packed all of the food, the drinks are in the freezer and fridge, and my clothing is gathered. We leave very early tomorrow for our vacation! Oh how I need it. I am looking forward to spending some quality time with my family away from the distractions of home.
The AC was "fixed" but now the upstairs unit keeps freezing over, which makes it NOT cool. It was 97 degrees upstairs one day. Hopefully when we get back we can get everything sorted out and fixed.
Hubby fixed the dryer this past week. He had to look up parts and directions, but he did it. I use the clothesline mostly anyway, but I like to start the wet things in the dryer. Ten minutes in the dryer makes them dry softer on the clothesline.
My classes are getting close to being ready, and I am preparing to co-lead a study skills seminar the week after we get back. I have been making tests for Geology and Mythology for #1, and helping #2 get his presentations done for Geography.
See why I need a distraction from home?
We plan to put Kelly in the neighbor's kennel so we don't have another run-away dog and note on our door when we get home. Gee Whiz.
Have a great week everyone!
The AC was "fixed" but now the upstairs unit keeps freezing over, which makes it NOT cool. It was 97 degrees upstairs one day. Hopefully when we get back we can get everything sorted out and fixed.
Hubby fixed the dryer this past week. He had to look up parts and directions, but he did it. I use the clothesline mostly anyway, but I like to start the wet things in the dryer. Ten minutes in the dryer makes them dry softer on the clothesline.
My classes are getting close to being ready, and I am preparing to co-lead a study skills seminar the week after we get back. I have been making tests for Geology and Mythology for #1, and helping #2 get his presentations done for Geography.
See why I need a distraction from home?
We plan to put Kelly in the neighbor's kennel so we don't have another run-away dog and note on our door when we get home. Gee Whiz.
Have a great week everyone!
Thursday, August 04, 2011
Sweltering Waiting
I couldn't decide how to title this post, so I went with both words. Our downstairs air conditioning unit wasn't "keeping up" through this heat wave. Finally, Hubby said he didn't think it was about keeping up but about doing anything at all, so he turned it off. I guess he was right, because it didn't get much hotter afterward. But now we have been without the downstairs unit for over a week, I think, and the inside of the house isn't cool at all anymore.
I called the repairman this morning and he hopes to be here today. Not as much as we hope he is here! Hubby and I haven't slept well for a long time because it is so hot and muggy. Last night I was so tired I was shaking, but it was too hot to sleep.
I went out on the back porch for a while about 4:00 AM. It was nice out then. We didn't have air conditioning when I was growing up. Shoot, we didn't have air conditioning until we moved to Texas. The kids were born without ac in our Philly apartment. When I was a kid you opened the window and put in a fan.
Not that I am wishing for the old days. No Siree, I like the air conditioning, but there seems to be a connection between knowing your neighbor and sleeping with the windows open. None of our neighbors sleep with open windows as far as I can tell, and it has been difficult to get to know them.
Maybe a blackout would bring our neighborhood closer together.
On second thought, I doubt it. We would be too irritable from lack of sleep. Grrr!
I called the repairman this morning and he hopes to be here today. Not as much as we hope he is here! Hubby and I haven't slept well for a long time because it is so hot and muggy. Last night I was so tired I was shaking, but it was too hot to sleep.
I went out on the back porch for a while about 4:00 AM. It was nice out then. We didn't have air conditioning when I was growing up. Shoot, we didn't have air conditioning until we moved to Texas. The kids were born without ac in our Philly apartment. When I was a kid you opened the window and put in a fan.
Not that I am wishing for the old days. No Siree, I like the air conditioning, but there seems to be a connection between knowing your neighbor and sleeping with the windows open. None of our neighbors sleep with open windows as far as I can tell, and it has been difficult to get to know them.
Maybe a blackout would bring our neighborhood closer together.
On second thought, I doubt it. We would be too irritable from lack of sleep. Grrr!
Wednesday, August 03, 2011
Trip Planner
I disappeared for a couple of days, didn't I? I am trying to get things ready for my commitments to a co-op I will be part of in a few weeks. The biggest problem this week has been a trip I am planning. I had hoped the Environmental Science class could head to the western part of the state for a look at some environmental zones we don't see here, but the cost is too prohibitive. So, finally, today, I think I made a decision.
We are going to go to the coast and stay at a Presbyterian camp. I can get it for $12 a night if I take 16 people. With food and an extra little trip to the aquarium, the total price for three days and two nights will be $43 per person, plus gas. Several places I looked at were going to charge about $200 for that!
I enjoyed looking at all of the Environmental Educational Centers available in NC, and told Hubby that I thought they would make great vacations or day trips. He thinks I'm nuts. Really, though, the places look like fun and are very beautiful. If I can just be sure not to break any legs while I am hiking!
We are leaving for a family vacation on Sunday. We decided that we will stay in NC for our vacation this year. We made a list for the boys of all of the things we could do in NC, and then we let them choose what they wanted to do. Drum Roll Please!!
We will be going to Cherokee to see the indian village and watch a play called "Unto These Hills" about when the Cherokee hid in the mountains of NC so they wouldn't have to follow the Trail of Tears to Oklahoma. Then we are headed to a state forest to hike to waterfalls and enjoy the scenery. There are a few places you can swim under the falls, so I imagine we will cool off that way in the afternoon. The next day we head to a gold mine for a tour of the first gold mine in NC and to pan for gold! Maybe we will strike it rich and pay for our vacation- might have better luck at the casino in Cherokee! Finally, the last day we go to Old Salem to visit one of the first settlements in NC and see what life was like for the Moravians in Winston-Salem. After that we drive home.
No amusement parks or trips to Europe for my boys. They are happy to see the scenery and enjoy a little history. Sounds good to me, too.
We are going to go to the coast and stay at a Presbyterian camp. I can get it for $12 a night if I take 16 people. With food and an extra little trip to the aquarium, the total price for three days and two nights will be $43 per person, plus gas. Several places I looked at were going to charge about $200 for that!
I enjoyed looking at all of the Environmental Educational Centers available in NC, and told Hubby that I thought they would make great vacations or day trips. He thinks I'm nuts. Really, though, the places look like fun and are very beautiful. If I can just be sure not to break any legs while I am hiking!
We are leaving for a family vacation on Sunday. We decided that we will stay in NC for our vacation this year. We made a list for the boys of all of the things we could do in NC, and then we let them choose what they wanted to do. Drum Roll Please!!
We will be going to Cherokee to see the indian village and watch a play called "Unto These Hills" about when the Cherokee hid in the mountains of NC so they wouldn't have to follow the Trail of Tears to Oklahoma. Then we are headed to a state forest to hike to waterfalls and enjoy the scenery. There are a few places you can swim under the falls, so I imagine we will cool off that way in the afternoon. The next day we head to a gold mine for a tour of the first gold mine in NC and to pan for gold! Maybe we will strike it rich and pay for our vacation- might have better luck at the casino in Cherokee! Finally, the last day we go to Old Salem to visit one of the first settlements in NC and see what life was like for the Moravians in Winston-Salem. After that we drive home.
No amusement parks or trips to Europe for my boys. They are happy to see the scenery and enjoy a little history. Sounds good to me, too.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
One Smart Lady
Quarks and leptons, traits of mythology, types and signs of erosion, the five parts of a story, plus sites and customs in Chile; it all adds up to one week of homeschooling my children. I think I should get some sort of degree when this is all finished!
Saturday I went to Raleigh to train for a leadership workshop. It allows me to rent the lodge at an environmental educational park. We are renting it in February for the Environmental Science class that I will be teaching this year. I discovered the park staff to be very polite and helpful, and the activities that are available there are sure to give us a boost in our competitions.
The oppressive heat continues here, though God has blessed us with a little rain today. The corn crop around here is dismal, so I imagine feeding goats and chickens this winter is going to be expensive. I am reading The Worst Hard Time right now about the Great Depressoin and the Great Plains. It is a very interesting look into how the GD and the Dust Bowl affected each other. It combines two of my favorite subjects, History and Environmental Science, so I am enjoying learning a lot that I never knew or connected.
Today's sermon was about being a lifelong learner. Yes, we need to keep stretching our brain power and learning new things, but we also need to be stretching our spiritual power and learning from God. So what I am learning lately from God? Mostly He has been strengthening my trust in Him. I know that He is taking care of all of my "problems" and concerns, I just don't have the big picture yet. Of course, I have a lifetime to learn how to paint on the canvas that He has handed me.
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#1 was stricken by strep this past week. I told you Thursday that he fell asleep. He woke with a sore throat and feeling miserable. Later, looking in his throat, I made the diagnosis of strep throat. I dumped probiotics down him, along with Aceteminophen, and finally this afternoon he seems to be on the upward mend. Good thing too, if he misses any Driver's Ed he has to quit and re-register. I don't want to go through this again, and neither does he!
Saturday I went to Raleigh to train for a leadership workshop. It allows me to rent the lodge at an environmental educational park. We are renting it in February for the Environmental Science class that I will be teaching this year. I discovered the park staff to be very polite and helpful, and the activities that are available there are sure to give us a boost in our competitions.
The oppressive heat continues here, though God has blessed us with a little rain today. The corn crop around here is dismal, so I imagine feeding goats and chickens this winter is going to be expensive. I am reading The Worst Hard Time right now about the Great Depressoin and the Great Plains. It is a very interesting look into how the GD and the Dust Bowl affected each other. It combines two of my favorite subjects, History and Environmental Science, so I am enjoying learning a lot that I never knew or connected.
Today's sermon was about being a lifelong learner. Yes, we need to keep stretching our brain power and learning new things, but we also need to be stretching our spiritual power and learning from God. So what I am learning lately from God? Mostly He has been strengthening my trust in Him. I know that He is taking care of all of my "problems" and concerns, I just don't have the big picture yet. Of course, I have a lifetime to learn how to paint on the canvas that He has handed me.
-------------------
#1 was stricken by strep this past week. I told you Thursday that he fell asleep. He woke with a sore throat and feeling miserable. Later, looking in his throat, I made the diagnosis of strep throat. I dumped probiotics down him, along with Aceteminophen, and finally this afternoon he seems to be on the upward mend. Good thing too, if he misses any Driver's Ed he has to quit and re-register. I don't want to go through this again, and neither does he!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Socks
Some people name cats or horses "Socks". I supppose if you really dislike an animal that would be an appropriate name. Socks are objects of derision from the beginning. Have you ever seen a baby happy to keep his socks on his feet? The little cherub will kick and squirm until the infernal things are off his feet, and then he gurgles happily.
Socks have played a role in my life as a mother for the past 14 1/2 years. If I had had any idea what they would mean, we would have stayed in WV so we could just be barefoot!
My first son had a habit of crawling to the laundry hamper and dumping it out. He would sort through all of the soiled clothes until he found a nice, chewy sock, and then he set to work on it. He would chew socks and suck on them as if they were Tootsie Roll Pops. It's true. I have pictures.
Then the second child came along. He was a sock sucker too, but also a sock thief. He would steal the dirty socks and hide them for future sock sucking.
Finally came my third and final child, the dog. She would steal socks from the shoe piles and chew on them, pulling with her feet and teeth until holes dappled the socks like sunshine through a winter tree.
Of course, there are the missing socks in the laundry. Many a housewife tells the tale of drying a load of socks and having one left over. My issue doesn't seem to be the dryer, but the washer, or lack of washing. When I wander upstairs to put away something in the attic or to check on the boys, I always find socks strewn on the floor.
"Pick up your socks," I screech. And I suppose that they do because they have some in the dirty laundry each week. But then I return upstairs, and the layer of dust on the socks I find tells me differently. Socks are under the desks, the couch, the beds...there are even pairs of socks stuffed down in the couch cushions as if the feet they adorned scorned their presence so immensely that simple removal could not be a fitting punishment.
As the boys packed a few weeks ago, I finished the laundry, including the socks. Then #2 came downstairs and informed me he didn't have enough pairs of clean socks for the week at camp. I was sure he must have some, since I had just done the laundry. He didn't.
So I did the only thing I could, I offered him my socks. And he took them! Pink toes and heels trim my socks, the only tell-tale sign that they belong to me. In the past year I have had to start marking socks with a fabric marker so that I know the owner of each pair. I spent extra money to buy pink ones for me so that I would be sure that they were mine.
Undeterred, #2 took my pink-toed socks. "I'll just explain what happened and tell the boys I have to wear my Mom's socks."
I just wish he could explain to me what happened.
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My boys both fell asleep this afternoon while doing their school work. The first week of school has been hard on them, I guess. A friend told me her kids asked if they could start school next week. It's too hot to do anything else they complained. They're right. In fact, it is hot enough to melt a mailbox here in our little town. It was in the paper!
Socks have played a role in my life as a mother for the past 14 1/2 years. If I had had any idea what they would mean, we would have stayed in WV so we could just be barefoot!
My first son had a habit of crawling to the laundry hamper and dumping it out. He would sort through all of the soiled clothes until he found a nice, chewy sock, and then he set to work on it. He would chew socks and suck on them as if they were Tootsie Roll Pops. It's true. I have pictures.
Then the second child came along. He was a sock sucker too, but also a sock thief. He would steal the dirty socks and hide them for future sock sucking.
Finally came my third and final child, the dog. She would steal socks from the shoe piles and chew on them, pulling with her feet and teeth until holes dappled the socks like sunshine through a winter tree.
Of course, there are the missing socks in the laundry. Many a housewife tells the tale of drying a load of socks and having one left over. My issue doesn't seem to be the dryer, but the washer, or lack of washing. When I wander upstairs to put away something in the attic or to check on the boys, I always find socks strewn on the floor.
"Pick up your socks," I screech. And I suppose that they do because they have some in the dirty laundry each week. But then I return upstairs, and the layer of dust on the socks I find tells me differently. Socks are under the desks, the couch, the beds...there are even pairs of socks stuffed down in the couch cushions as if the feet they adorned scorned their presence so immensely that simple removal could not be a fitting punishment.
As the boys packed a few weeks ago, I finished the laundry, including the socks. Then #2 came downstairs and informed me he didn't have enough pairs of clean socks for the week at camp. I was sure he must have some, since I had just done the laundry. He didn't.
So I did the only thing I could, I offered him my socks. And he took them! Pink toes and heels trim my socks, the only tell-tale sign that they belong to me. In the past year I have had to start marking socks with a fabric marker so that I know the owner of each pair. I spent extra money to buy pink ones for me so that I would be sure that they were mine.
Undeterred, #2 took my pink-toed socks. "I'll just explain what happened and tell the boys I have to wear my Mom's socks."
I just wish he could explain to me what happened.
------------
My boys both fell asleep this afternoon while doing their school work. The first week of school has been hard on them, I guess. A friend told me her kids asked if they could start school next week. It's too hot to do anything else they complained. They're right. In fact, it is hot enough to melt a mailbox here in our little town. It was in the paper!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
School Is In Session
I left this morning at 7:30 to drop #1 off at Driver's Ed and said to him, "I guess school is back in full swing. This is what it usually feels like anyway."
"What? Hectic?"
Yes, that is how it usually feels. He told me he doesn't even feel like school has started yet. Of course not. Yesterday after DE I picked him up, and we went out to lunch. After lunch he had plans to bowl with some friends, and then he had a County Council meeting after dinner. A friend came home with us after bowling because she is also a CC Officer and needed to go to the meeting, but her family's vehicle had broken down and she needed a ride.
Today we left for DE with #2 in tow because he and I had an errand to run and then a 4H meeting and pool party at 9:00. They stayed until 3:40 when I said we HAVE to go home. Classes will be this evening.
Hubby has a meeting this evening to learn about Odyssey of the Mind. He thinks he will be a coach for the high schoolers this year.
That's right, the second day of school and we are already running full throttle!
"What? Hectic?"
Yes, that is how it usually feels. He told me he doesn't even feel like school has started yet. Of course not. Yesterday after DE I picked him up, and we went out to lunch. After lunch he had plans to bowl with some friends, and then he had a County Council meeting after dinner. A friend came home with us after bowling because she is also a CC Officer and needed to go to the meeting, but her family's vehicle had broken down and she needed a ride.
Today we left for DE with #2 in tow because he and I had an errand to run and then a 4H meeting and pool party at 9:00. They stayed until 3:40 when I said we HAVE to go home. Classes will be this evening.
Hubby has a meeting this evening to learn about Odyssey of the Mind. He thinks he will be a coach for the high schoolers this year.
That's right, the second day of school and we are already running full throttle!
Saturday, July 23, 2011
They're Back
The boys are Back!!! WooHoo!!! I love having my chicks back in the nest. The dog has stayed home the last couple of days too. Of course, that may be due to the extreme heat that we have been suffering here. She doesn't even follow me from room to room as usual, but stations herself where she can see me from multiple sites and stays put.
Lest any of you should read the last post and think that I am irritated by my boy or that he is a bad apple, I want to reassure you. He is a very good boy. The day he came back, he came downstairs, wrapped his lean, long self around my neck and told me that he loves me and is glad to be back. Then he said, "Thank you." That threw me.
"Thanks for what?"
"For being my mom."
I don't know what I did to deserve that, but I took it...with tears in my eyes, of course.
The day that I went to Raleigh to pick the kids up, I was told by another mother that #1 was a good boy. The van they were using broke down, and they had to take turns getting rides to the other events across campus. He stood in the parking lot (read HOT SUN) while she made three other trips to take kids to their spots. Finally she got him. He apologized TO HER because she had to miss seeing her son do something that morning in order to give everyone else a ride. He really is a gentleman.
Today the family took a spontaneous shopping trip to JC Penney. They were having a time-specific sale, and I thought I would try getting a few things. I bought 2 t-shirts each for my boys. As we left the building, #1 said, "Thanks for the shirts, Mom."
So you see, he is a good boy. He just isn't going to be pushed into a decision. Actually I am glad that he is like that. When he does claim Jesus, as I am sure he someday will, he will be certain that he chose from his own volition and not pressure from his parents.
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So how did my boys fare at State Congress? They did well. Neither one placed for his presentation, but both felt good about their performances. #2 received Gold Individual and Silver Overall for the State Project, and #1 received Silver Individual for the same. That project is judged for the entire state regardless of age, so it is pretty impressive.
Our club received Silver for our Community Service project from last year, which was to have each kid donate 10 hours to community service. They actually donate much, much more than that, but 10 hours was the required amount.
#1 had also been invited to an awards banquet so that he could receive the Gold medal for his Public Speaking cumulative record. He actually won Gold in both "Public Speaking" and "Expressive Arts and Communication", but you are only allowed to win Gold in one category and the other has to be given Silver. There was some sort of mix-up and they said it was Gold for "Expressive Arts and Communications". We will have to check on that.
So 4H takes a break for a few days. We have just been vegging inside the last couple of days to try and stay cool. Monday night is the County Council meeting, of which #1 is VP. Then Tuesday is our club business meeting and pool party. #1 may have to miss that since he will be taking Driver's Ed starting Monday!!! Oh My Goodness.
That also means school starts on Monday for us. Whew! Where are the fall breezes for school?
Lest any of you should read the last post and think that I am irritated by my boy or that he is a bad apple, I want to reassure you. He is a very good boy. The day he came back, he came downstairs, wrapped his lean, long self around my neck and told me that he loves me and is glad to be back. Then he said, "Thank you." That threw me.
"Thanks for what?"
"For being my mom."
I don't know what I did to deserve that, but I took it...with tears in my eyes, of course.
The day that I went to Raleigh to pick the kids up, I was told by another mother that #1 was a good boy. The van they were using broke down, and they had to take turns getting rides to the other events across campus. He stood in the parking lot (read HOT SUN) while she made three other trips to take kids to their spots. Finally she got him. He apologized TO HER because she had to miss seeing her son do something that morning in order to give everyone else a ride. He really is a gentleman.
Today the family took a spontaneous shopping trip to JC Penney. They were having a time-specific sale, and I thought I would try getting a few things. I bought 2 t-shirts each for my boys. As we left the building, #1 said, "Thanks for the shirts, Mom."
So you see, he is a good boy. He just isn't going to be pushed into a decision. Actually I am glad that he is like that. When he does claim Jesus, as I am sure he someday will, he will be certain that he chose from his own volition and not pressure from his parents.
-------
So how did my boys fare at State Congress? They did well. Neither one placed for his presentation, but both felt good about their performances. #2 received Gold Individual and Silver Overall for the State Project, and #1 received Silver Individual for the same. That project is judged for the entire state regardless of age, so it is pretty impressive.
Our club received Silver for our Community Service project from last year, which was to have each kid donate 10 hours to community service. They actually donate much, much more than that, but 10 hours was the required amount.
#1 had also been invited to an awards banquet so that he could receive the Gold medal for his Public Speaking cumulative record. He actually won Gold in both "Public Speaking" and "Expressive Arts and Communication", but you are only allowed to win Gold in one category and the other has to be given Silver. There was some sort of mix-up and they said it was Gold for "Expressive Arts and Communications". We will have to check on that.
So 4H takes a break for a few days. We have just been vegging inside the last couple of days to try and stay cool. Monday night is the County Council meeting, of which #1 is VP. Then Tuesday is our club business meeting and pool party. #1 may have to miss that since he will be taking Driver's Ed starting Monday!!! Oh My Goodness.
That also means school starts on Monday for us. Whew! Where are the fall breezes for school?
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Questions...Parenting
Part of raising kids is letting them go. Last week I let my older son go to the opening of Harry Potter: Deathly Hallows, Part 2. That's right. The midnight show. The one that lets out at 2:05 AM. Yes, I normally go to bed at 10:00 PM.
He asked if he could go with friends, and I said yes. I had a couple of caveats. I had to approve of the friends, and I had to be there. Not that I actually had to go in to the movie, but I was going to be in the parking lot the entire time. Just in case.
He went with two of his best friends, and they had a fabulous time. I dropped them off at 10:30 after a candy stop at Sheetz. I put the seat down in the back of my van, threw out a comforter and a pillow, and went to sleep. At 2:08 they called to say they were on their way out. Nothing happened.
That is how I let go. Small increments.
He is starting to ask questions about church now. I so badly want to tell him that Jesus is the only way and if you don't accept that, I will hog-tie you and lock you in your room until you get it. But I don't. I answer his questions. I let him go to other churches. I let him read other books. I keep the conversation running. And I let go.
God has to take this part of parenting for me. I am desperate that #1 should claim the Lord Jesus as his Savior, but I can't do that for him. I can take him to the Lord, but all I can really do is sit in the parking lot and wait.
He asked if he could go with friends, and I said yes. I had a couple of caveats. I had to approve of the friends, and I had to be there. Not that I actually had to go in to the movie, but I was going to be in the parking lot the entire time. Just in case.
He went with two of his best friends, and they had a fabulous time. I dropped them off at 10:30 after a candy stop at Sheetz. I put the seat down in the back of my van, threw out a comforter and a pillow, and went to sleep. At 2:08 they called to say they were on their way out. Nothing happened.
That is how I let go. Small increments.
He is starting to ask questions about church now. I so badly want to tell him that Jesus is the only way and if you don't accept that, I will hog-tie you and lock you in your room until you get it. But I don't. I answer his questions. I let him go to other churches. I let him read other books. I keep the conversation running. And I let go.
God has to take this part of parenting for me. I am desperate that #1 should claim the Lord Jesus as his Savior, but I can't do that for him. I can take him to the Lord, but all I can really do is sit in the parking lot and wait.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Relaxing?
I took the boys to the Ag Center on Monday morning to drop them off for the ride to State Congress in Raleigh. A few of the moms were standing around visiting, and one asked what I planned to do with the boys gone. "Relax," quickly interjected one of the moms.
"You don't know Angel if you think she is going to relax. I bet she has a long list already made out!" stated my friend.
How right she was. I have been working on school plans for my high schooler. He is taking a couple of classes through The Great Courses, but I have to come up with the assignments and syllabi. I finished Myth in Human History a couple of days ago, and yesterday I nearly finished Geology. The Geology prof is actually from WVU, and it looks quite intimidating in the notebook. I watched some of the videos, and although it is difficult material, the prof seems to make it interesting and understandable.
Besides school I also had a list of things to do around the house. The dog finally got that bath she has been needing, and today #2 and I worked on the front porch.
"What made you decide to do all of this work all of a sudden?" he asked.
"I didn't decide all of a sudden. It has been on my list for a couple of weeks, but we are just now getting to it," I replied.
We washed the ceiling, windows, floor, furniture, and cushions. We painted the rockers, sanded and shellacked the big rocker, and returned the porch to a generally acceptable state of being. This was the first time I let #2 try painting, it was spray paint in the yard, and he did fairly well. However, he went through the paint faster than I expected, and now I need to go get one more can to finish a couple of spots.
Tomorrow I head to Raleigh to help pick up all of the 4Hers and their luggage. #2 is happy that we can't work for too long. He understands "relax" in a different way than his mother.
"You don't know Angel if you think she is going to relax. I bet she has a long list already made out!" stated my friend.
How right she was. I have been working on school plans for my high schooler. He is taking a couple of classes through The Great Courses, but I have to come up with the assignments and syllabi. I finished Myth in Human History a couple of days ago, and yesterday I nearly finished Geology. The Geology prof is actually from WVU, and it looks quite intimidating in the notebook. I watched some of the videos, and although it is difficult material, the prof seems to make it interesting and understandable.
Besides school I also had a list of things to do around the house. The dog finally got that bath she has been needing, and today #2 and I worked on the front porch.
"What made you decide to do all of this work all of a sudden?" he asked.
"I didn't decide all of a sudden. It has been on my list for a couple of weeks, but we are just now getting to it," I replied.
We washed the ceiling, windows, floor, furniture, and cushions. We painted the rockers, sanded and shellacked the big rocker, and returned the porch to a generally acceptable state of being. This was the first time I let #2 try painting, it was spray paint in the yard, and he did fairly well. However, he went through the paint faster than I expected, and now I need to go get one more can to finish a couple of spots.
Tomorrow I head to Raleigh to help pick up all of the 4Hers and their luggage. #2 is happy that we can't work for too long. He understands "relax" in a different way than his mother.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
The boys are gone again this week. This is State Congress week for 4H in NC. That means they head to Raleigh and compete, take classes, and have fun. This is the first year that #2 can attend, and he was nervous when he left Monday. He actually can only stay Monday and Tuesday, and will return Tuesday evening. The pictures below are from the District Activity Day back in June.
District Activity Day is a competition for giving presentations. It was the day that we left for WV for camp, so the kids were anxious to get it over with for more than one reason! I didn't get to see #1 give his talk. He was in the Public Speaking category which means he gave a 5-8 minute speech without presentation boards or props. His topic was "War: What Is It Good For?" He came in second place and will be competing Tuesday morning for the State title.
This is the last of the big summer events for 4H. Hallelujah!! We are all tired and ready to stay home for a while. I know the dog will be glad when this is all over. Every time she sees me doing laundry now, she starts to shake. I guess she knows it means the kids are leaving again.
Last week when we took #2 to camp, we put her in the dog kennel in the goat field. We were gone for one night, and when we got back this was on the door:
7/11/11
Your black and white dog has found her way back to our neighborhood again this year. We live in S--- off I--- RD...just take a right from your house.
We're concerned because the neighbors have talked about calling the pound. Mary
Isn't that lovely? I headed right over without even finishing the unpacking and scooped her up in the van. Kelly thought she was a queen. I informed her she was NOT! And then the next day, while I was working in the garden, off she went again. Someone else from the neighborhood came over to tell me she was there again. There are kids at home over there is why she returns.
So she has been a prisoner ever since. She isn't very happy about it, but the other option is death at the pound. Since #1 volunteers there once a week, I don't think that would be a good plan. Hopefully once the boys are back to stay she will behave herself more often.
Swimmin' Hole Part 2
As my dad and I walked along to the swimming hole, I asked him how he knew about this lost place. It certainly wasn't any place I knew of; hidden at the end of a forsaken dirt road that traversed a stream, the trees encroached the road space until you nearly couldn't walk through in sections. He said it was a place he and his brothers frequented when they were kids. "It was where I met my first drunks," he continued.
"What?!"
He and his brothers had gone over to fish and swim, taking a bunch of food to get them through the day and night. There they met three drunk men who stole their food and ate it up. The next morning the hungry boys walked to town eating wild onoins. In town they traded some soda pops for food before they walked back. I guess the fish hadn't been biting.
That sort of adventure is reminiscent of a Tom Sawyer summer, and what a story to tell your kids and grandkids. But what sort of stories will today's kids tell when they are all grown? "Yeah, I played Halo all day when I was 14." Just doesn't have the same strength, does it? So boys, put down the joysticks and computer gaming consoles, and go find yourself some drunks!
-------------
I went to the Urgent Care on Saturday. While teaching hiking at camp I stepped wrong on my left foot and pain shot up through my leg. I limped for a while, but unless I stepped on it wrong, I didn't have any issues. I went hiking several times, walked here with a friend, and did whatever I pleased. But occasionally that shooting pain would rear its ugly head. Friday night as I slept, I awoke several times with pain when my foot got caught in the blankets.
So I decided to go get an Xray at Urgent Care. Yep, it was broken. It looked like it was healing, so the real break can not be determined. They put me in an air cast, and I went to my podiatrist Monday. I have to wear the air cast for a month, and then gradually wean myself off of it. At least I am still able to swim. I thought I might finally have the story of wearing a cast all summer and not being able to swim. Yet another adventure that I can't tell my kids.
"What?!"
He and his brothers had gone over to fish and swim, taking a bunch of food to get them through the day and night. There they met three drunk men who stole their food and ate it up. The next morning the hungry boys walked to town eating wild onoins. In town they traded some soda pops for food before they walked back. I guess the fish hadn't been biting.
That sort of adventure is reminiscent of a Tom Sawyer summer, and what a story to tell your kids and grandkids. But what sort of stories will today's kids tell when they are all grown? "Yeah, I played Halo all day when I was 14." Just doesn't have the same strength, does it? So boys, put down the joysticks and computer gaming consoles, and go find yourself some drunks!
-------------
I went to the Urgent Care on Saturday. While teaching hiking at camp I stepped wrong on my left foot and pain shot up through my leg. I limped for a while, but unless I stepped on it wrong, I didn't have any issues. I went hiking several times, walked here with a friend, and did whatever I pleased. But occasionally that shooting pain would rear its ugly head. Friday night as I slept, I awoke several times with pain when my foot got caught in the blankets.
So I decided to go get an Xray at Urgent Care. Yep, it was broken. It looked like it was healing, so the real break can not be determined. They put me in an air cast, and I went to my podiatrist Monday. I have to wear the air cast for a month, and then gradually wean myself off of it. At least I am still able to swim. I thought I might finally have the story of wearing a cast all summer and not being able to swim. Yet another adventure that I can't tell my kids.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Swimming Hole
#2 had been looking forward to a trip in the "holler" ever since he went last year with his grandfather.
Last year, I left WV after camp to attend Envirothon School for coaches. I left the kids in WV with our parents. One night #1 went to stay with Hubby's parents, but #2 wasn't ready to leave the farm. So my dad took #2 and a bunch of male cousins to a childhood swimming hole. They fished and swam, cooked over a fire, and slept in a hay trailer. It was the best thing he had ever done, and he was sure that we all needed to be a part of it this year.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Dolly Sods Hiking
I taught a hiking class to the kids at 4H camp a couple of weeks ago. The first day we tried to determine how far we could hike in an hour. I measured off a tenth of a mile on a flat piece of pavement and had the kids walk for fifteen minutes. They were then to convert the time and mileage to discover their hourly rate. The problem was that they didn't all grasp the idea of hiking.
Some of the kids tried to beat everyone else. If the average adult walks 2.5 miles an hour, then those kids were going to walk 5 miles an hour. The problem is that you can't maintain that pace for a day's hike, nor should you want to hike that fast. I tried to explain to the kids that hiking is to enjoy the environment, whether it is an ocean or a forest, a mountain or a desert. You should hike to enjoy your surroundings and discover the beauty of nature.
I went hiking at Dolly Sods while in WV. Dolly Sods is a US Wilderness area that is part of the Monongahela National Forest. There are many trails for hiking, and people come from all over to enjoy the beauty. At least I thought they went there to enjoy the beauty.
My father and I took 7 kids there to spend an afternoon hiking several miles on one of the trails. We saw bear tracks, deer and coon tracks, and a fabulous, slimy, purple mushroom. We crossed a little stream, sat on a fallen log, and tramped through an ancient meadow. We climbed on an outcropping of rock, high above the rest of the world and looked out at the mountains before us. Several of us picked up fallen branches and used them for hiking up the steep slopes. We found huckleberry bushes that had most of their berries eaten by some wild animals, and we watched beautiful butterflies searching for their own food.
We also saw other people hiking; people loaded with heavy packs, swinging professional walking sticks in their hands, huffing and puffing, not looking anywhere but the next step ahead. We tried to talk to a few, but they had little to say. We managed to get out of one man that he was from northern Virginia near DC. He was from a land of concrete and steel, of rushing traffic and busy rat-race ways, and he continued his race there in the Sods.
I am sure the other hikers benefited from the exertion of the hike. Their heartbeat quickened with the strain of climbing mountainous terrain with packs on their backs; their breathing labored as they struggled to keep up a steady pace. Our little group of tramps also benefitted from the hike; our hearts racing with the excitement of climbing trees, rocks, and hills, and our breath coming in gasps as we looked at the beauty around us. Both of us strengthened our bodies that afternoon, but I wonder if the other hikers exercised their inner spirits as we did.
Some of the kids tried to beat everyone else. If the average adult walks 2.5 miles an hour, then those kids were going to walk 5 miles an hour. The problem is that you can't maintain that pace for a day's hike, nor should you want to hike that fast. I tried to explain to the kids that hiking is to enjoy the environment, whether it is an ocean or a forest, a mountain or a desert. You should hike to enjoy your surroundings and discover the beauty of nature.
I went hiking at Dolly Sods while in WV. Dolly Sods is a US Wilderness area that is part of the Monongahela National Forest. There are many trails for hiking, and people come from all over to enjoy the beauty. At least I thought they went there to enjoy the beauty.
My father and I took 7 kids there to spend an afternoon hiking several miles on one of the trails. We saw bear tracks, deer and coon tracks, and a fabulous, slimy, purple mushroom. We crossed a little stream, sat on a fallen log, and tramped through an ancient meadow. We climbed on an outcropping of rock, high above the rest of the world and looked out at the mountains before us. Several of us picked up fallen branches and used them for hiking up the steep slopes. We found huckleberry bushes that had most of their berries eaten by some wild animals, and we watched beautiful butterflies searching for their own food.
We also saw other people hiking; people loaded with heavy packs, swinging professional walking sticks in their hands, huffing and puffing, not looking anywhere but the next step ahead. We tried to talk to a few, but they had little to say. We managed to get out of one man that he was from northern Virginia near DC. He was from a land of concrete and steel, of rushing traffic and busy rat-race ways, and he continued his race there in the Sods.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Chiropractic Savior
I went to the chiropracter last Thursday. As always he asked how I was doing, and I answered, "It isn't too bad, but I can tell I need an adjustment. I have been travelling, hiking, and camping with a bunch of kids for two weeks in the mountains."
He was "amazed" by my answer, recalling how I was when I entered his office back in January. Now that I feel so much better, I have to remind myself of how bad I was. I couldn't put on my underwear without sitting down. I had to crouch or stoop sideways to pet the dog. I always ached. I had to wake up at night to turn over because I couldn't roll.
Now I can look at people and tell they have back issues. The way they stand, sit, walk, move, twist; it's all there. The pain, the frustration, the annoyance of not being able to do what you are designed to do.
Spiritual growth can be the same sort of thing. You spend your time in pain, frustration, and annoyance. Then you discover a way out of it and find calm, peace, and joy. After a while you have to remind yourself what life was like before Jesus entered and made an adjustment. You look around and see others dealing with the same issues you used to encounter, and you can feel their pain and frustration.
My chiropractor has a sign on his wall...Feel Better, Tell Others...His adjustments have made a difference in my ability to lead a normal life. Jesus's adjustments have made it possible for me to lead an extraordinary life. I feel better, and I am telling you. Let Jesus make an eternal adjustment for you.
He was "amazed" by my answer, recalling how I was when I entered his office back in January. Now that I feel so much better, I have to remind myself of how bad I was. I couldn't put on my underwear without sitting down. I had to crouch or stoop sideways to pet the dog. I always ached. I had to wake up at night to turn over because I couldn't roll.
Now I can look at people and tell they have back issues. The way they stand, sit, walk, move, twist; it's all there. The pain, the frustration, the annoyance of not being able to do what you are designed to do.
Spiritual growth can be the same sort of thing. You spend your time in pain, frustration, and annoyance. Then you discover a way out of it and find calm, peace, and joy. After a while you have to remind yourself what life was like before Jesus entered and made an adjustment. You look around and see others dealing with the same issues you used to encounter, and you can feel their pain and frustration.
My chiropractor has a sign on his wall...Feel Better, Tell Others...His adjustments have made a difference in my ability to lead a normal life. Jesus's adjustments have made it possible for me to lead an extraordinary life. I feel better, and I am telling you. Let Jesus make an eternal adjustment for you.
Friday, July 08, 2011
Wiped Out
Absolutely wiped out! That is how I feel. I managed to survive taking 12 kids to camp for a week, and then 7 kids stayed with me at my parents and in-laws for about a week. Driving back on I-95 with pouring rain didn't energize me any either. By the time we got to our house, the rain was coming down like a hurricane!
The in-laws stayed Weds and Thursday nights and then headed back this morning. Now I am paying bills, filling out paperwork, and generally getting ready for the next event. #2 leaves for camp on Sunday and #1 leaves Monday morning at 0 dark 30. Hubby and I have reserved a cabin in a national forest for Sunday night. After we drop off #2 at camp we will head there for some relaxation.
Hubby managed to get a lot done on my summer projects list while I was away, so he needs the rest too. I will update you on all of the adventures we had as I get some energy back. I am looking forward to some good writing time. WV always leaves me filled with inspiration. Happy summer to you!
The in-laws stayed Weds and Thursday nights and then headed back this morning. Now I am paying bills, filling out paperwork, and generally getting ready for the next event. #2 leaves for camp on Sunday and #1 leaves Monday morning at 0 dark 30. Hubby and I have reserved a cabin in a national forest for Sunday night. After we drop off #2 at camp we will head there for some relaxation.
Hubby managed to get a lot done on my summer projects list while I was away, so he needs the rest too. I will update you on all of the adventures we had as I get some energy back. I am looking forward to some good writing time. WV always leaves me filled with inspiration. Happy summer to you!
Friday, June 17, 2011
A Day in the Life
A day in the life of a stay-at-home mom, June 16, 2011: Get up about 6:30, dress, drink some juice, head out the door for morning exercise. 8:00 wake children to ready for 4H meeting at Ag Center. 8:30 leave for Ag Center. Return home at 9:15, very ill. Leave at 10:45 for chiropracter appointment, return home at 11:15. Ice back and rest. Leave at 11:35 to retrieve children, notice another kid needs a ride home. Return said child to his home across town, and then return to own home 12:30. Wolf down sandwich. Take older child to animal shelter for volunteer service at 1:00, then head to hospital to pick up friend. Back home at 2:30 and into bed to try resting some more. Leave at 3:15 to pick up son from shelter.
The lock-in that was scheduled for that night had been cancelled- can I hear a Hallelujah?!-- so I was able to stay in bed for the evening.
It is good to have a less scheduled day today. I am still a bit ill with a stomach thing, but I think it is nearly over. Sorry I haven't written much lately...It is summer and I am trying to work, plan, and rest for next year. We leave in one week for a trip to WV, and then when I get back the writing should be more regular. Hope you are all having a fabulous summer.
The lock-in that was scheduled for that night had been cancelled- can I hear a Hallelujah?!-- so I was able to stay in bed for the evening.
It is good to have a less scheduled day today. I am still a bit ill with a stomach thing, but I think it is nearly over. Sorry I haven't written much lately...It is summer and I am trying to work, plan, and rest for next year. We leave in one week for a trip to WV, and then when I get back the writing should be more regular. Hope you are all having a fabulous summer.
Saturday, June 04, 2011
Teenager
It happened for certain last week. I thought I had a teenager for a couple of years now, but it became a certainty last week; Thursday to be exact. Thursday I asked the boys to help outside by digging up the grass that has overgrown the brick walkway in the back. #1 took out a water bottle filled with lemonade. I was walking inside when I noticed the bottle sitting in the sun on the porch.
"I moved your lemonade into the shade," I told him.
"It was in the shade," he replied.
"No, the sun had moved the shadow and it was in the sun."
"That can't be. I set it in the shade."
"Yes, but the sun has moved."
He then went on to tell me how that couldn't be right. I do believe he said something like, If I were God I wouldn't have done it that way. Yes, he is a teeneager...smarter than God, now!
Then he was asked to mow the yard. He was thinking about a girl before he started mowing; I know because he was asking me about her. Hubby came outside where I was hanging laundry and asked, "Is the blade turning on the mower?"
I listened and it didn't sound right. We stopped #1 on his pass by us and asked if he had the blade engaged. No.
So that is it. He is smarter than God, and he can't keep his mind on anything but girls. Oh boy!
"I moved your lemonade into the shade," I told him.
"It was in the shade," he replied.
"No, the sun had moved the shadow and it was in the sun."
"That can't be. I set it in the shade."
"Yes, but the sun has moved."
He then went on to tell me how that couldn't be right. I do believe he said something like, If I were God I wouldn't have done it that way. Yes, he is a teeneager...smarter than God, now!
Then he was asked to mow the yard. He was thinking about a girl before he started mowing; I know because he was asking me about her. Hubby came outside where I was hanging laundry and asked, "Is the blade turning on the mower?"
I listened and it didn't sound right. We stopped #1 on his pass by us and asked if he had the blade engaged. No.
So that is it. He is smarter than God, and he can't keep his mind on anything but girls. Oh boy!
Friday, June 03, 2011
Relaxing
The in-laws came down last Friday and spent the night. Then they took the boys down to Myrtle Beach with them to stay at a time share. Hubby and I went down after church on Sunday. It was a nice resort, nicer than a lot of others, and we had a relaxing time. There was a lazy river, a large pool, and a balcony overlooking a reservoir. I read two books!!!
We planned on leaving Wednesday morning, and the in-laws would finish out the week and then head to a cousin's wedding in GA. However, F-I-L's baby brother passed away suddenly on Tuesday night, so we all left on Wednesday. We came on home and they went back to WV for the funeral. His brother was very overweight and smoked, so although it was very sudden it shouldn't have been a huge surprise.
Today #2 and I went to the beach. We thought we were meeting friends there, but I didn't check my email before I left and the friends couldn't make it. Sick kid. #2 and I had a lovely time relaxing together though and I am glad I went. I had been questioning whetheer I should go, but we worked hard on Thursday knowing we were going, so I guess it was ok. #1 didn't care to go; he said he slept a lot of the day. I think we all just needed some down time.
Tonight we went to a going away party for the couple hubby married last week. They are headed to Pennsylvania. I have fond memories of our time in PA. My babies were born there, how could they not be fond memories? I wish the couple a happy beginning.
We planned on leaving Wednesday morning, and the in-laws would finish out the week and then head to a cousin's wedding in GA. However, F-I-L's baby brother passed away suddenly on Tuesday night, so we all left on Wednesday. We came on home and they went back to WV for the funeral. His brother was very overweight and smoked, so although it was very sudden it shouldn't have been a huge surprise.
Today #2 and I went to the beach. We thought we were meeting friends there, but I didn't check my email before I left and the friends couldn't make it. Sick kid. #2 and I had a lovely time relaxing together though and I am glad I went. I had been questioning whetheer I should go, but we worked hard on Thursday knowing we were going, so I guess it was ok. #1 didn't care to go; he said he slept a lot of the day. I think we all just needed some down time.
Tonight we went to a going away party for the couple hubby married last week. They are headed to Pennsylvania. I have fond memories of our time in PA. My babies were born there, how could they not be fond memories? I wish the couple a happy beginning.
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