Korri received her white belt tonight! She was SO excited.
First she had to demonstrate the skill she has learned already:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/BfHxqZwLyX8yqbys2
Then she received her belt:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/kPvMbQEQ3sXgP3Kf1
She looks so official now! Of course, we had to rush off to grab dinner on our way to gymnastics, so I forgot to take a picture of her with her new belt on. Oops. I'll get one tomorrow.
Side note: keeping things organized, clean and AT karate (Finn forgot his belt tonight!), for three kiddos is tough! They really need to take it on themselves (and I do encourage it), but then I remember they are just kids. Jesus, help me remember all of it! On a positive note, Finn lost his hand pads but we found them tonight at karate! Yeah! It's the little things.
Counters
Monday, April 9
Sunday, April 8
First demo
Finn did his first karate demonstration yesterday! Mr. Newman called and asked if Finn could do a demo at the Delano High School (it is my understanding they only certain students for each demo). Jim thought it was a great idea and said yes right away. Me, in my usual social anxiety way, didn't think it was necessary, but Jim was going to handle it. Okay, it worked with our schedule, so fine.
Well, Jim ended up being sick Saturday morning so I had to take Finn (sound familiar...reminiscent of Finn's karate tournament?!?!). But honestly, this was much easier than the tournament and Finn did great! There were different belt levels there and they had each level show different skills. It was pretty fun to watch and it made me realize how far Finn has come. I mean, he was front and center doing his moves and he didn't even flinch. This is the boy who won't do anything if people can see him or if he's even close to the center of attention.
I told Jim that I think God is using these activities to get me out of my shell. I had no interest in doing either of these events with Finn but in the end, I LOVED seeing him perform and do so well. On our way out afterward, he said, "I love doing things with just you, mommy!" Okay, buddy, I need to slow down and take that in! What an amazing moment. Especially for a nine year old boy!
Well, Jim ended up being sick Saturday morning so I had to take Finn (sound familiar...reminiscent of Finn's karate tournament?!?!). But honestly, this was much easier than the tournament and Finn did great! There were different belt levels there and they had each level show different skills. It was pretty fun to watch and it made me realize how far Finn has come. I mean, he was front and center doing his moves and he didn't even flinch. This is the boy who won't do anything if people can see him or if he's even close to the center of attention.
I told Jim that I think God is using these activities to get me out of my shell. I had no interest in doing either of these events with Finn but in the end, I LOVED seeing him perform and do so well. On our way out afterward, he said, "I love doing things with just you, mommy!" Okay, buddy, I need to slow down and take that in! What an amazing moment. Especially for a nine year old boy!
Party of five!
So, now all five of us are active members of the Dojo Karate in Buffalo! Yes, Jim and I had our first class on Thursday. I was very nervous to do it. I really don't like new things and not knowing what to expect. And it is humbling to join a class with other adults when you are literally like a baby and don't know ANYTHING! But Mr. Newman was VERY patient with us and it was an amazing class. But holy workout! I was not expecting a full workout nor to sweat through my shirt! Sheesh! (I was pretty sore the next day, but in addition to the 45 min karate class, I ran a 5K in 28:09 that morning and shoveled snow that afternoon, so I guess its expected!) Jim and I are hoping to go to their Tues and Thurs daytime class and then maybe switch off one evening class per week (they are late, so we'd have to take turns vs. bringing the kiddos with us).
Also, one benefit of the daytime class is that Mac can take the class right after us, so it is like hitting two birds with one stone. Oh, and he literally sat "like a black belt" which means cross-cross apple sauce with your hands on your knees for our entire 45 minute class! Mr. Newman was very impressed but then thanked us for sending Mac to class with all that pent up energy! Oops, but I'll take a well behaved kid during our class over being super active in his karate class any time!
And I spoke too soon. You know how as soon as you say something, your kids make a liar out of you? Well, if you refer to my previous post, I said we weren't allowing Korri to start karate until gymnastics was over in May. BUT...okay. She REALLY wanted to start AND at least for right now, she will always be in either Mac's or Finn's class...sooooo...it isn't any extra driving and if her other activities over lap on a karate day, she will have to miss that karate class. So, we agreed to let her start on Friday! And she ROCKED it. I mean, her years of gymnastics and dance have primed her for karate. She's flexible, strong, knows how to manipulate her body and take direction very well!! She is so amazing and she LOVED it. So it feels like the right choice.
Now, yesterday, I pulled together a family meeting to stress the point that the belt level you are at and how hard you work for the next one is PERSONAL and not competitive between family members. I could see Jim and I getting competitive and certainly Finn and Korri (Mac is on a different belt color system for now). And right now, I have a feeling Korri and I might advance a little quicker just because we are both in shape (and Jim will be traveling for work, so he physically can't go to class). But at the end of the day, I wanted to stress that it is a competition inside yourself, not external. Hopefully that sank in for everybody (even myself, because I've realized lately that I can have a pretty fierce competitive drive at time!).
Also, one benefit of the daytime class is that Mac can take the class right after us, so it is like hitting two birds with one stone. Oh, and he literally sat "like a black belt" which means cross-cross apple sauce with your hands on your knees for our entire 45 minute class! Mr. Newman was very impressed but then thanked us for sending Mac to class with all that pent up energy! Oops, but I'll take a well behaved kid during our class over being super active in his karate class any time!
And I spoke too soon. You know how as soon as you say something, your kids make a liar out of you? Well, if you refer to my previous post, I said we weren't allowing Korri to start karate until gymnastics was over in May. BUT...okay. She REALLY wanted to start AND at least for right now, she will always be in either Mac's or Finn's class...sooooo...it isn't any extra driving and if her other activities over lap on a karate day, she will have to miss that karate class. So, we agreed to let her start on Friday! And she ROCKED it. I mean, her years of gymnastics and dance have primed her for karate. She's flexible, strong, knows how to manipulate her body and take direction very well!! She is so amazing and she LOVED it. So it feels like the right choice.
Now, yesterday, I pulled together a family meeting to stress the point that the belt level you are at and how hard you work for the next one is PERSONAL and not competitive between family members. I could see Jim and I getting competitive and certainly Finn and Korri (Mac is on a different belt color system for now). And right now, I have a feeling Korri and I might advance a little quicker just because we are both in shape (and Jim will be traveling for work, so he physically can't go to class). But at the end of the day, I wanted to stress that it is a competition inside yourself, not external. Hopefully that sank in for everybody (even myself, because I've realized lately that I can have a pretty fierce competitive drive at time!).
Tuesday, April 3
Mighty Dragon
As you know, Finn started Karate in January and has been doing really well. Mac has wanted to started since the first time we watched Finn at class, but he was doing a dance class and ice skating lessons, so Jim and I agreed, he had to wait until they were over. Well, once they were, Mac said he didn't want to any more! Fine by me!
But he changed his mind on Friday! Master Chris got him a uniform and Mac immediately went into Finn's class (I thought to watch but nope, they had him fully participate!).
OMG, so stinkin' cute! And he did a GREAT job during the class. Well, Mac went to his second class on Saturday and since Finn is a more advanced belt, he got to be a helper in Mac's class (which I think is great for Finn!). Plus, there were three kiddos in Mac's class, so with Finn's help, they had a one to one ratio with kids to teachers. And Mac earned his white belt!!
Video of his white belt:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/w1YBdw6sAlsa4gZF3
Because of Mac's age, he is in the Mighty Dragons class, which is actually white belts with colored stripes until they are old enough to earn the "regular" belts. So for right now, we have a white belt (Mac's next will be white with gold stripe) and a gold belt (Finn's next will be green belt). And we got a uniform for Korri but we aren't letting her start until after gymnastics is over...so the middle of May. Fun, fun!!
But he changed his mind on Friday! Master Chris got him a uniform and Mac immediately went into Finn's class (I thought to watch but nope, they had him fully participate!).
OMG, so stinkin' cute! And he did a GREAT job during the class. Well, Mac went to his second class on Saturday and since Finn is a more advanced belt, he got to be a helper in Mac's class (which I think is great for Finn!). Plus, there were three kiddos in Mac's class, so with Finn's help, they had a one to one ratio with kids to teachers. And Mac earned his white belt!!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/w1YBdw6sAlsa4gZF3
Because of Mac's age, he is in the Mighty Dragons class, which is actually white belts with colored stripes until they are old enough to earn the "regular" belts. So for right now, we have a white belt (Mac's next will be white with gold stripe) and a gold belt (Finn's next will be green belt). And we got a uniform for Korri but we aren't letting her start until after gymnastics is over...so the middle of May. Fun, fun!!
Friday, March 30
And my DNA says...
...that I AM Irish!
For Christmas, Jim got me the 23andMe DNA kit. I've been wanting to do it for a while, but it is kind of expensive and I just never bit the bullet (and part of me was scared to find out where my ancestors came from in case I wasn't actually Irish!). Anyway, I finally mailed in my saliva sample in February and waited (not patiently!) for the results.
Well, today the reports came back. While this DNA kit tells you a LOT about yourself, I was most interested to see what nationalities I'm made up of. And honestly, a little worried that I wasn't even Irish...would have been a huge blow considering I've thought I was Irish my whole life (with a maiden name of Walsh, who wouldn't?!?!) and named my three children with Irish names!
And I AM IRISH!!! Quite a bit actually. Here are my major ethnicities:
European: 99.9%
Break down of European:
German: 46%
Irish/English: 37%
Broadly Northwestern Europe: 12%
Rest: small mix of lots of others!
My strongest genetic match was with Ireland and United Kingdom, even though I have more German DNA. Weird. So I'm a stubborn, thrifty (German traits) and have a temper but never complain (Irish traits!). Yup, sounds an awful lot like me :)
There's a ton of information provided that will take a while to go through. If any of you have done it, let me know and we can link our accounts! If any family members want specific details on health or genetic things, just let me know!
So much fun, especially for me since I really thought I was just a "mutt." Now I have a concrete answer for where my ancestors came from.
For Christmas, Jim got me the 23andMe DNA kit. I've been wanting to do it for a while, but it is kind of expensive and I just never bit the bullet (and part of me was scared to find out where my ancestors came from in case I wasn't actually Irish!). Anyway, I finally mailed in my saliva sample in February and waited (not patiently!) for the results.
Well, today the reports came back. While this DNA kit tells you a LOT about yourself, I was most interested to see what nationalities I'm made up of. And honestly, a little worried that I wasn't even Irish...would have been a huge blow considering I've thought I was Irish my whole life (with a maiden name of Walsh, who wouldn't?!?!) and named my three children with Irish names!
And I AM IRISH!!! Quite a bit actually. Here are my major ethnicities:
European: 99.9%
Break down of European:
German: 46%
Irish/English: 37%
Broadly Northwestern Europe: 12%
Rest: small mix of lots of others!
My strongest genetic match was with Ireland and United Kingdom, even though I have more German DNA. Weird. So I'm a stubborn, thrifty (German traits) and have a temper but never complain (Irish traits!). Yup, sounds an awful lot like me :)
There's a ton of information provided that will take a while to go through. If any of you have done it, let me know and we can link our accounts! If any family members want specific details on health or genetic things, just let me know!
So much fun, especially for me since I really thought I was just a "mutt." Now I have a concrete answer for where my ancestors came from.
Friday, March 23
Tredmill
So, I've been running at the gym since November. Due to some breathing issues, I can't run outside if it is colder than 40 degrees, so off to the gym I went. But I ONLY use the tredmill, which kind of feels like a waste of money. AND...Jim generously almost ALWAYS watches Mac so I can go (Mac is a pain when I bring him). But I kept thinking having one a home was really the way to go. We would save the gym membership fee and I could run any time, because Mac would just be home with me (and hopefully leave me alone!).
Well, Jim hates running on a tredmill, so while he agreed it made sense for me, he felt like he'd never use it so we kept putting it off. And, it is impossible to shop for one online. You don't know what you're really getting (did you know that not tredmills are made for RUNNING?!?!? What?!?).
So we went to Johnson Wellness and Fitness (used to be 2nd Wind Exercise) and got some good info, but had a little sticker shock. Jim had found one online that he really wanted but it wasn't being released until Sept! Finally, he just said that I'd be the one using it, so just to buy one. Okay, he didn't have to tell me twice.
After Finn's karate tournament on Sunday, we went to the store (they were having an amazing sale on the brand we liked), and I picked one out. Done! (there were only four models to pick from, so I could handle that!) And it was delivered yesterday! It is a little weird how excited I was (I even "saved" my morning run to do after it was delivered!).
I still need to "figure" this one out. My run didn't go very well. The program stopped after 30 minutes, which screwed up my flow. It "feels" different, so I just need to get used to it. It doesn't have a fan (argh!...but I just ordered a clip-on one, so easy fix). I think we are going to move it more centered in front of the TV, if there is room behind the couch (these things take up a LOT Of room!). One really cool feature is on the screen while you are running, you can display trails from national parks so it looks like you are running on the trails! Really neat.
Anyway, I'm off for my long run (yuck!). Hopefully it goes better than yesterday!!
Well, Jim hates running on a tredmill, so while he agreed it made sense for me, he felt like he'd never use it so we kept putting it off. And, it is impossible to shop for one online. You don't know what you're really getting (did you know that not tredmills are made for RUNNING?!?!? What?!?).
So we went to Johnson Wellness and Fitness (used to be 2nd Wind Exercise) and got some good info, but had a little sticker shock. Jim had found one online that he really wanted but it wasn't being released until Sept! Finally, he just said that I'd be the one using it, so just to buy one. Okay, he didn't have to tell me twice.
After Finn's karate tournament on Sunday, we went to the store (they were having an amazing sale on the brand we liked), and I picked one out. Done! (there were only four models to pick from, so I could handle that!) And it was delivered yesterday! It is a little weird how excited I was (I even "saved" my morning run to do after it was delivered!).
I still need to "figure" this one out. My run didn't go very well. The program stopped after 30 minutes, which screwed up my flow. It "feels" different, so I just need to get used to it. It doesn't have a fan (argh!...but I just ordered a clip-on one, so easy fix). I think we are going to move it more centered in front of the TV, if there is room behind the couch (these things take up a LOT Of room!). One really cool feature is on the screen while you are running, you can display trails from national parks so it looks like you are running on the trails! Really neat.
Anyway, I'm off for my long run (yuck!). Hopefully it goes better than yesterday!!
Tuesday, March 20
Who said competition is better?
Finn, that's who! (believe it or not!)
Begrudgingly, I brought Finn to his first Karate Tournament on Sunday. Jim brings him to karate. Jim signed him up for the tournament (per his teacher's urging) and Jim was supposed to take him to the tournament.
Now, don't go thinking I'm terrible because I didn't want anything to do with it. I don't like the unknown. I don't like crowds. I didn't think Finn had practiced his moves enough. I was worried about Finn's overall attitude and willingness to participate (history has taught me that!). I don't like figuring details out and we were given NO details about this tournament. I'd never been to Maple Grove High School before...oh...and when we pulled up, there was a huge church service going on, so there was mass chaos. ARGH!
But Jim woke up with the dry heaves, so I said, "I guess I'm taking Finn?" Like...stop puking, get out of bed and PLEASE take him! But, no, Jim was too sick so I took him.
The funny thing was that Finn was amped to go and was SO excited. Who is this and what have you done with my son? In my anxiety ridden haze, I must have asked Finn a thousand questions like, "do you think we should go in this door? Do you see anybody from your Dojo? Where do you think we should go now? There are a lot of people down there, should we go see if that is registeration? He was like, "um, I'm nine, mom!" But it kept me moving instead of hiding in a corner somewhere.
We eventually found Master Chris (the leader of his Dojo) who apparently RUNS THE WHOLE DARN TOURNAMENT! And we were able to register and get some more information. And find somebody to tie Finn's belt (his momma ain't got a clue!) and asked a teacher to show him his second one-step because he wasn't 100% sure. Jim wisely suggested leaving plenty early so we could figure things out and not be rushed. THANK GOD THAT WE DID!
We found Finn's mat five minutes before his time slot...and Finn just "did" it. He listened to instructions. Went where he was supposed to go. Was patient. I mean, seriously, that alone made tears come to my eyes. Then it was his turn. And he freaking ROCKED IT! I mean, boom. He was so confident and accurate. Even the other parents were impressed. Here is his demonstration (hard to hear him but it was SUPER loud in there):
https://photos.app.goo.gl/D4OwjAWwVSw5G0r82
And he got SECOND place! (out of three, but still!!) He was SO PROUD OF HIMSELF!!! And that feeling stayed with him almost all day. Honestly, it was one of the highlights of my life to experience that with him. God had a plan...I need to learn to trust a little more. I really truly feel like karate might be Finn's "thing." He has come so far in two months and I can't wait to see where he goes.
He is wearing his white belt for the tournament although he is now a gold belt (you test at the level you were at when registering because he hasn't learned his gold belt one-steps, yet). We have his gold belt meeting today with Master Chris. We will order Finn's sparring gear at this meeting, which he is really excited to get.
Begrudgingly, I brought Finn to his first Karate Tournament on Sunday. Jim brings him to karate. Jim signed him up for the tournament (per his teacher's urging) and Jim was supposed to take him to the tournament.
Now, don't go thinking I'm terrible because I didn't want anything to do with it. I don't like the unknown. I don't like crowds. I didn't think Finn had practiced his moves enough. I was worried about Finn's overall attitude and willingness to participate (history has taught me that!). I don't like figuring details out and we were given NO details about this tournament. I'd never been to Maple Grove High School before...oh...and when we pulled up, there was a huge church service going on, so there was mass chaos. ARGH!
But Jim woke up with the dry heaves, so I said, "I guess I'm taking Finn?" Like...stop puking, get out of bed and PLEASE take him! But, no, Jim was too sick so I took him.
The funny thing was that Finn was amped to go and was SO excited. Who is this and what have you done with my son? In my anxiety ridden haze, I must have asked Finn a thousand questions like, "do you think we should go in this door? Do you see anybody from your Dojo? Where do you think we should go now? There are a lot of people down there, should we go see if that is registeration? He was like, "um, I'm nine, mom!" But it kept me moving instead of hiding in a corner somewhere.
We eventually found Master Chris (the leader of his Dojo) who apparently RUNS THE WHOLE DARN TOURNAMENT! And we were able to register and get some more information. And find somebody to tie Finn's belt (his momma ain't got a clue!) and asked a teacher to show him his second one-step because he wasn't 100% sure. Jim wisely suggested leaving plenty early so we could figure things out and not be rushed. THANK GOD THAT WE DID!
We found Finn's mat five minutes before his time slot...and Finn just "did" it. He listened to instructions. Went where he was supposed to go. Was patient. I mean, seriously, that alone made tears come to my eyes. Then it was his turn. And he freaking ROCKED IT! I mean, boom. He was so confident and accurate. Even the other parents were impressed. Here is his demonstration (hard to hear him but it was SUPER loud in there):
https://photos.app.goo.gl/D4OwjAWwVSw5G0r82
And he got SECOND place! (out of three, but still!!) He was SO PROUD OF HIMSELF!!! And that feeling stayed with him almost all day. Honestly, it was one of the highlights of my life to experience that with him. God had a plan...I need to learn to trust a little more. I really truly feel like karate might be Finn's "thing." He has come so far in two months and I can't wait to see where he goes.
He is wearing his white belt for the tournament although he is now a gold belt (you test at the level you were at when registering because he hasn't learned his gold belt one-steps, yet). We have his gold belt meeting today with Master Chris. We will order Finn's sparring gear at this meeting, which he is really excited to get.
Sunday, March 18
Ice skating is over!
Yesterday, Korri and Mac had their last ice skating lesson. While it felt like the season lasted forever, I really can't believe it is over. Both kiddos improved SO MUCH over the weeks. Finn came with to watch (since he had karate right after) and now he wants to take skating lessons, too!
Here's a glimpse of Mac (green coat):
https://photos.app.goo.gl/a41EeaTf7DKh16Cd2
And here's Korri (she was practicing stopping):
https://photos.app.goo.gl/e9S5lMj7qOqovN0W2
Both kiddos passed their class. Korri was in pre-alpha and now will be in alpha, if/when she takes skating lessons again. She did so well, her coach started teaching her skills from the alpha class! Mac was in tots and even though he passed, would be in tots again because of his age.
And so far at least, we do NOT like hockey! I kept making sure, especially with Mac, after each lesson. However, I could see Korri really taking to figure skating. We'll see!!
Here's a glimpse of Mac (green coat):
https://photos.app.goo.gl/a41EeaTf7DKh16Cd2
And here's Korri (she was practicing stopping):
https://photos.app.goo.gl/e9S5lMj7qOqovN0W2
Both kiddos passed their class. Korri was in pre-alpha and now will be in alpha, if/when she takes skating lessons again. She did so well, her coach started teaching her skills from the alpha class! Mac was in tots and even though he passed, would be in tots again because of his age.
And so far at least, we do NOT like hockey! I kept making sure, especially with Mac, after each lesson. However, I could see Korri really taking to figure skating. We'll see!!
Saturday, March 17
Little Leprechauns
We LOVE St. Patrick's Day at our house. After ice skating lessons and karate, we ate some green mac and cheese for lunch (helpful note: do NOT dye your mac and cheese with pureed spinach...it was gross!) and went to the parade in town. And Korri made a leprechaun trap (which wasn't tripped this morning...oops...but was when we got back from skating!).
The weather was BEAUTIFUL. Grandma, Zander and Zachary met us at the parade. In the evening, we even had a fire and made S'mores!
In honor of St. Patrick's Day:
In honor of St. Patrick's Day:
May you always have...
Walls for the winds
A roof for the rain
Tea beside the fire
Laughter to cheer you
Those you love near you
And all your heart might desire.
Monday, March 12
Gold is better
Finnegan went to his first karate class ever on January 13. Some students from Dojo Karate in Buffalo came to his school to give a demonstration and he was hooked! I'd been wanting to get him involved in karate for a while but I didn't take the initiative and I really think that if I had pushed him to do it, he wouldn't have wanted to or wouldn't have stuck it out.
So, anyway, he had one trial month to see how he liked it. During that time, he got his first belt (white), but pretty much every student gets that one just for showing up! He's really taken to karate and while he is a home body and NEVER WANTS TO LEAVE, once he's at karate, he loves it and really thrives. After his trial month, we met with the dojo Master and signed Finn up for a plan that will get him through his red belt (white, gold, green, purple, blue, advanced blue and red) and will take approximately 18 months!
Anyway, on Thursday, Finn graduated from white to gold. He had to demonstrate 4 skills and 1 character strength in order to move to his gold belt. The ceremony was so great to see and this momma loved seeing her bird fly. He looks so official with the gold belt now! I'm not exactly sure what he needs to do for his green belt, but I'm sure he'll figure it out.
Here is the video of him receiving his new belt. Pay attention to when Master Chris asks him if he listens to his parents (he puts his thumbs parallel to the floor meaning, "so so!"). It is hilarious, but honest!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/fGkJnhpFfrFndzx82
Finn also is participating in his first karate tournament on Sunday. He's only doing the beginner division, where the judges help you in case you're nervous. Jim and I both agreed it was a good way for Finn to try it, since he HATES being in front of people or the center of attention. I honestly think Finn's part will take 10 minutes, so Jim is going to take him. It is a HUGE tournament, so I'm sure it will be nuts and I didn't want to add having to keep track of Korri and Mac while we were there.
So, anyway, he had one trial month to see how he liked it. During that time, he got his first belt (white), but pretty much every student gets that one just for showing up! He's really taken to karate and while he is a home body and NEVER WANTS TO LEAVE, once he's at karate, he loves it and really thrives. After his trial month, we met with the dojo Master and signed Finn up for a plan that will get him through his red belt (white, gold, green, purple, blue, advanced blue and red) and will take approximately 18 months!
Anyway, on Thursday, Finn graduated from white to gold. He had to demonstrate 4 skills and 1 character strength in order to move to his gold belt. The ceremony was so great to see and this momma loved seeing her bird fly. He looks so official with the gold belt now! I'm not exactly sure what he needs to do for his green belt, but I'm sure he'll figure it out.
Here is the video of him receiving his new belt. Pay attention to when Master Chris asks him if he listens to his parents (he puts his thumbs parallel to the floor meaning, "so so!"). It is hilarious, but honest!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/fGkJnhpFfrFndzx82
Finn also is participating in his first karate tournament on Sunday. He's only doing the beginner division, where the judges help you in case you're nervous. Jim and I both agreed it was a good way for Finn to try it, since he HATES being in front of people or the center of attention. I honestly think Finn's part will take 10 minutes, so Jim is going to take him. It is a HUGE tournament, so I'm sure it will be nuts and I didn't want to add having to keep track of Korri and Mac while we were there.
Tuesday, February 13
Take to Practice
Life has been crazy busy lately. Don't feel sorry for us, they are mostly things we chose to do, but still, lots of running around, dividing and conquering and very little family time. I don't mind being busy nor do I mind the kids being involved in things. But there are limits. The boys just finished their dance class, which is one less thing on Mondays (yes, one less thing because we still have two piano lessons on Mondays!).
But with all the hustle and bustle and stress, it is good to keep perspective. Jim sent me this image saying, "For some reason, this spoke to me when thinking about all of the stuff that is scheduled for the kids."
It made me tear up. I always want kids around to run to activities and coordinate schedules and events to go to. I may feel differently in 10 years (LOL!!) but thinking about how one day we'll wake up and there won't be places to go and things to do. I'm sad. I know the solution is NOT to have more babies...but I'm just saying!
I guess that's what grand-parenting is for. We'll just have to wait patiently for that stage of our lives (Mac doesn't leave the house for FOURTEEN more years, so I think we're good!!). Plus, the good thing is that Jim and I like spending time together, so maybe we'll be able to make up for lost time ;) But it is always good to remember to appreciate what you have right now, even if they may seem like challenges, for this too shall pass and change.
But with all the hustle and bustle and stress, it is good to keep perspective. Jim sent me this image saying, "For some reason, this spoke to me when thinking about all of the stuff that is scheduled for the kids."
It made me tear up. I always want kids around to run to activities and coordinate schedules and events to go to. I may feel differently in 10 years (LOL!!) but thinking about how one day we'll wake up and there won't be places to go and things to do. I'm sad. I know the solution is NOT to have more babies...but I'm just saying!
I guess that's what grand-parenting is for. We'll just have to wait patiently for that stage of our lives (Mac doesn't leave the house for FOURTEEN more years, so I think we're good!!). Plus, the good thing is that Jim and I like spending time together, so maybe we'll be able to make up for lost time ;) But it is always good to remember to appreciate what you have right now, even if they may seem like challenges, for this too shall pass and change.
Wednesday, February 7
Twenty Questions - Korri 7
Twenty Questions - Korri 7
Starting at age three, I've asked Korri 20 questions around the time of her birthday. I chose NOT to direct or influence her initial answers. Here are her responses:
20 questions: answered by Korrigan on 2/7/2018
1. What is your favorite color? Blue, light
2. What is your favorite toy? Barbies
3. What is your favorite fruit? Apples and oranges
4. What is your favorite TV show/movie? Ever After High/Boss Baby
5. What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch? Popcorn chicken at school, with honey mustard sauce
6. What is your favorite outfit/thing to wear? Something pretty but not itchy, like a dress
7. What is your favorite game? Mastermind
8. What is your favorite snack? Apples and oranges and bubble gum
9. What is your favorite animal? horse
10. What is your favorite song? Twinkle twinkle little star, then she thought about it and said The Greatest by Sia (or Kids Bop)
11. What is your favorite book? Boxcar Children
12. Who is your best friend? Lilly in Mrs. Myhre's class
13. What is your favorite cereal? Fruit Loops
14. What is your favorite thing to do outside? Building a snowman and playing in the leaves
15. What is your favorite drink? Pink lemonade, sprite and root-beer
16. What is your favorite holiday? Christmas, because you get to celebrate Jesus’ birthday
17. What do you like to take to bed with you at night? I don’t sleep with anything, well, my blanket
18. What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Pancakes (with some prodding by me)
19. If you could pick anything, what you would eat for dinner on your birthday? Malts and pizza
20. What do you want to be when you grow up? A mommy
Bonus Questions:
21. What is your favorite sport to play? Gymnastics (also likes basketball and dance)
22. What is your best/least favorite part of school? Best: art Least: math
Starting at age three, I've asked Korri 20 questions around the time of her birthday. I chose NOT to direct or influence her initial answers. Here are her responses:
20 questions: answered by Korrigan on 2/7/2018
1. What is your favorite color? Blue, light
2. What is your favorite toy? Barbies
3. What is your favorite fruit? Apples and oranges
4. What is your favorite TV show/movie? Ever After High/Boss Baby
5. What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch? Popcorn chicken at school, with honey mustard sauce
6. What is your favorite outfit/thing to wear? Something pretty but not itchy, like a dress
7. What is your favorite game? Mastermind
8. What is your favorite snack? Apples and oranges and bubble gum
9. What is your favorite animal? horse
10. What is your favorite song? Twinkle twinkle little star, then she thought about it and said The Greatest by Sia (or Kids Bop)
11. What is your favorite book? Boxcar Children
12. Who is your best friend? Lilly in Mrs. Myhre's class
13. What is your favorite cereal? Fruit Loops
14. What is your favorite thing to do outside? Building a snowman and playing in the leaves
15. What is your favorite drink? Pink lemonade, sprite and root-beer
16. What is your favorite holiday? Christmas, because you get to celebrate Jesus’ birthday
17. What do you like to take to bed with you at night? I don’t sleep with anything, well, my blanket
18. What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Pancakes (with some prodding by me)
19. If you could pick anything, what you would eat for dinner on your birthday? Malts and pizza
20. What do you want to be when you grow up? A mommy
Bonus Questions:
21. What is your favorite sport to play? Gymnastics (also likes basketball and dance)
22. What is your best/least favorite part of school? Best: art Least: math
Wow, this year was VERY difficult to do these with Korri. She was all attitude, sass and even disrespect. I don’t get it. She had a VERY hard time with just stating her "favorite" but wanted to list everything/everybody she likes. Argh. But regardless, we eventually got through it.
My thoughts/feedback on some of her answers:
My thoughts/feedback on some of her answers:
1. What is your favorite color? Blue, light: she just said "blue" but I asked light or dark, because I knew she specifically likes light blue.
3. What is your favorite fruit? Apples and oranges: she was very decisive about this one and her answer surprised me. She is a fruit-ie (like a foodie but with fruit!) and I would have picked bananas.
4. What is your favorite TV show/movie? Ever After High/Boss Baby: she really couldn't come up with a TV Show but eventually "narrowed" it down to Sofia the First and Ever After High. I honestly think those were the only two she could think of since she hasn't watched Sofia in what seems like years and she just happened to watch Ever After High this morning. As far as movie, I don't think Boss Baby is her favorite, but Mac watches it all the time, so I think it was the first one she could think of.
7. What is your favorite game? Mastermind: again, I was surprised, but let me be clear, she likes to be the code MAKER in Mastermind NOT the code BREAKER! LOL
8. What is your favorite snack? Apples and oranges and bubble gum: She does like these three thing but I asked about ice cream and she agreed, that was probably her favorite.
11. What is your favorite book? Boxcar Children: awww...a girl after my own heart. We just read the first book, so it is top of mind for her, but she did really enjoy it and it is the perfect reading level/writing style for her right now.
12. Who is your best friend? Lilly in Mrs. Myhre's class: this is where the wheels fell off the wagon. She started listing all of her friends and I was like, that isn't the point! Who is the ONE person you'd be saddest to never see again. And then she said our old neighbor Max, who moved away almost two years ago! NOT MY POINT! I'm sure Lilly is a very nice girl but she has NEVER even mentioned her before this morning. If you asked me, I'd say Aubrey is her actual best friend, BUT they had a tiff at recess the other day, and I think she refused to name her because of it. STUBBORN!! (see, she IS just like me;)
15. What is your favorite drink? Pink lemonade, sprite and root-beer: again, the concept of "favorite" eluded her and she refused to narrow it down. So there you have it. Her list of EVERYTHING she drinks. LOL
17. What do you like to take to bed with you at night? I don’t sleep with anything, well, my blanket: she means the blanket on top of her, she doesn't have a "lovey."
18. What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Pancakes (with some prodding by me): she first said "fruit loops" again but honestly, she NEVER eats them. So I asked her what she'd eat if she could eat anything and I started naming every breakfast thing I could think of. That is when she said pancakes (she likes skinny pancakes but we haven't had them in FOREVER).
19. If you could pick anything, what you would eat for dinner on your birthday? Malts and pizza: said without a moments hesitation. Look back at her answer from last year! I guess we'd better get her a malt next year on her birthday :)
20. What do you want to be when you grow up? A mommy: again, look at her response from last year. The girl is consistent, if nothing else!
21. What is your favorite sport to play? Gymnastics (also likes basketball and dance): at first she listed all three and refused to name just one. Then I asked her if she could only do ONE of these three, which one would she pick.
22. What is your best/least favorite part of school? Best: art Least: math: it makes me sad that math is her least favorite. But she's really good at it, so I hope she keeps on keeping on! After all, she's daddy Princess of Math and Science :)
Here is the last picture before she turned 7, before getting on the bus on Jan 30th (because she was born at 10:39am):
Man, I love this girl fiercely, but she challenges me constantly. I wish I had more...I don't know..."something" that she needs because I'm not giving it to her. If the last year has been a glimpse into what the teen years will be like, I'm terrified. I just want to support and love her and I want her to be happy and well adjusted, which she is most of the time. She just FEELS so strongly about EVERYTHING. I just try to give her inter- and intra- personal skills that will help her through all these hills and valleys.
"If I could give my daughter 3 things, it would be the confidence to always know her self worth, the strength to chase her dreams and the ability to know how truly, deeply loved she is." -Author Unknown
Part of me, if I'm being honest, wants to "break" her so she conforms and listens and is respectful. But the thought of that actually happening makes me sad because that would be taking away part of what makes her KORRI. No, I don't want to break her, but maybe taming her a little wouldn't be bad.
If you are curious as to what her responses were last year, click here to link to that post!
Here's a family picture (courtesy of Jessica Hislop) from seven years ago today:
Wednesday, January 24
Groove Gala
Jim and I were very fortunate to be given financial support after Finnegan was born by Spare Key. Spare Key is an organization that helps families in crisis with critically ill or seriously injured children by paying one month of their mortgage. It was a huge relief for us, since my full-time job was being with Finn at the hospital for the 85 days he was there.
Jim and I are supporting this amazing organization by attending their 2018 Groove Gala on Saturday, Feb 24. We would LOVE to have company! If you are interested in attending with us, just click here (or copy/paste: https://one.bidpal.net/2018groovegala/welcome) to sign up and buy your tickets. We know this is a large financial commitment and therefore really appreciate you even considering attending. Alternately, you can make a donation to support this wonderful cause by clicking here.
Jim and I are supporting this amazing organization by attending their 2018 Groove Gala on Saturday, Feb 24. We would LOVE to have company! If you are interested in attending with us, just click here (or copy/paste: https://one.bidpal.net/2018groovegala/welcome) to sign up and buy your tickets. We know this is a large financial commitment and therefore really appreciate you even considering attending. Alternately, you can make a donation to support this wonderful cause by clicking here.
Tuesday, January 23
Twenty Questions - Finn 9
Starting at age three, I've asked Finn 20 questions around the time of his birthday. I chose NOT to direct or influence his initial answers, but have asked follow up questions after he was done. Here are his responses:
20 questions: answered by Finnegan on 1/23/2018
1. What is your favorite color? Blue and black
2. What is your favorite toy? Nerf gun
3. What is your favorite fruit? berries
4. What is your favorite TV show/movie? Ninjago / any Star Wars
5. What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch? pizza
6. What is your favorite outfit/thing to wear? Under Armour
7. What is your favorite game? Monopoly Jr
8. What is your favorite snack? Chocolate
9. What is your favorite animal? Dragon and alligator
10. What is your favorite song? Believer by Imagine Dragons
11. What is your favorite book? Ninjago
12. Who is your best friend? Xavier P
13. What is your favorite cereal? I don’t have one, I don’t like cereal
14. What is your favorite thing to do outside? football
15. What is your favorite drink? rootbeer
16. What is your favorite holiday? Christmas, because you get to see your family
17. What do you like to take to bed with you at night? Kiki
18. What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Chocolate mini muffins
19. If you could pick anything, what you would eat for dinner on your birthday? Spicy chicken wings (buffalo)
20. What do you want to be when you grow up? Basketball or baseball player
Bonus Questions:
21. What is your favorite sport to play? baseball
22. What is your best/least favorite part of school? Best: lunch Least: music
I love how thoughtful he was this year. Some answers were what I would write and some weren't. Here are some follow up comments and my thoughts.
1. His favorite color has been red for a very long time. I guess things change.
4. He really couldn't think of a TV show. I think this was just one he eventually thought of, not necessarily a favorite. I thought he was going to pick a show on You Tube, like Ethan Gamer TV. Mac supplied (through the shut office door) the movie, but Finn agreed they are his favorite.
6. I KNEW that was coming. He is on a bit of an Under Armour kick right now!
9. I asked him why they were his favorite animals and he said just because! Well, there you have it.
10. I knew this was coming, too. Thunder by Imagine Dragons is his very close second favorite right now.
11. I don't remember the last time he read a Ninjago book. I suggested Percy Jackson (which we've been reading together) and he said he didn’t think of it, but it is his favorite.
20. I love this answer. I think he has a long way to go, though!! It's great to have dreams :)
21. I think golf is actually his favorite but given the time of year, he isn't thinking about it. But he does like baseball, too. Basketball has fallen back a bit on the list.
The last picture of my eight year old before turning nine early the next morning:
For his birthday, he chose to spend an extra night at the hotel instead of getting to have a friend come home after school and going out to eat. I think he chose well! Also, nine is tough. He's halfway done with us! Waaaaah! I mean, halfway to 18 at least. So sad to think about that. It truly does go so fast!
If you are curious as to what his responses were last year, click here to link to that post!
20 questions: answered by Finnegan on 1/23/2018
1. What is your favorite color? Blue and black
2. What is your favorite toy? Nerf gun
3. What is your favorite fruit? berries
4. What is your favorite TV show/movie? Ninjago / any Star Wars
5. What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch? pizza
6. What is your favorite outfit/thing to wear? Under Armour
7. What is your favorite game? Monopoly Jr
8. What is your favorite snack? Chocolate
9. What is your favorite animal? Dragon and alligator
10. What is your favorite song? Believer by Imagine Dragons
11. What is your favorite book? Ninjago
12. Who is your best friend? Xavier P
13. What is your favorite cereal? I don’t have one, I don’t like cereal
14. What is your favorite thing to do outside? football
15. What is your favorite drink? rootbeer
16. What is your favorite holiday? Christmas, because you get to see your family
17. What do you like to take to bed with you at night? Kiki
18. What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Chocolate mini muffins
19. If you could pick anything, what you would eat for dinner on your birthday? Spicy chicken wings (buffalo)
20. What do you want to be when you grow up? Basketball or baseball player
Bonus Questions:
21. What is your favorite sport to play? baseball
22. What is your best/least favorite part of school? Best: lunch Least: music
I love how thoughtful he was this year. Some answers were what I would write and some weren't. Here are some follow up comments and my thoughts.
1. His favorite color has been red for a very long time. I guess things change.
4. He really couldn't think of a TV show. I think this was just one he eventually thought of, not necessarily a favorite. I thought he was going to pick a show on You Tube, like Ethan Gamer TV. Mac supplied (through the shut office door) the movie, but Finn agreed they are his favorite.
6. I KNEW that was coming. He is on a bit of an Under Armour kick right now!
9. I asked him why they were his favorite animals and he said just because! Well, there you have it.
10. I knew this was coming, too. Thunder by Imagine Dragons is his very close second favorite right now.
11. I don't remember the last time he read a Ninjago book. I suggested Percy Jackson (which we've been reading together) and he said he didn’t think of it, but it is his favorite.
20. I love this answer. I think he has a long way to go, though!! It's great to have dreams :)
21. I think golf is actually his favorite but given the time of year, he isn't thinking about it. But he does like baseball, too. Basketball has fallen back a bit on the list.
The last picture of my eight year old before turning nine early the next morning:
For his birthday, he chose to spend an extra night at the hotel instead of getting to have a friend come home after school and going out to eat. I think he chose well! Also, nine is tough. He's halfway done with us! Waaaaah! I mean, halfway to 18 at least. So sad to think about that. It truly does go so fast!
If you are curious as to what his responses were last year, click here to link to that post!
Monday, January 22
Pool Party!
Finn and Korri decided again this year to have a joint party at the hotel in Delano. But I told them if that's what they wanted to do, only one cake and it would be a swimming theme cake. They both agreed, which kind of surprised me. Doing two cakes last year was super tough.
So I've been SUPER busy the entire month of January but I was EXTRA busy the week of their party. I found a really cute snorkeling cake that they both agreed on for their birthday cake for the party. Great. BUT I only started looking into it the weekend before, which didn't leave me much time to plan and get the things I needed.
Oh, well. Jim would say I was behind the eight ball, but because he thought that I refused to let him be right and remained calm and kept ticking along! LOL I guess it probably helped me because I wasn't very stressed. Anyway, both kiddos picked chocolate cake, which is weird if you know Korri at all, but different fillings. Finn picked chocolate (duh!) and Korri picked strawberry (there's her normal self!!).
Here is the inspiration cake:
So I put Flat Finn on the bottom layer with the chocolate filling and I put Korri on the top layer with the strawberry. There are things I would have done differently (the frosting didn't cover very well and I don't know why!), but it did turn out pretty good and it was fun if nothing else.
And I had fun with the theme for decorating, too:
I used relatively new beach towels for table runners, which was a nice touch (since the tables were a little stained). The Pool Water punch was a big hit (blue Hawaiian punch, pineapple juice and ginger ale!), even though the container leaked. You can see the rest of the clever decorating. I like doing that stuff. Not sure what we'll do next year, but I think I'm going to make their cakes ONE their birthdays (so I can do individual themes that they pick) and then order cupcakes for the party! We'll see!
Oh, and while the water guns were a neat idea for a take home gift, it maybe wasn't the BEST idea to use during the party because EVERY body and thing was drenched. Oh, well. At least we're at a pool.
Thank you to everybody who came and made the Bigs feel so special. The only down side is the party room is super small so we can't include everybody we want do. Bummer. But they had a wonderful time! I mean, swimming in the middle of January is a nice treat, given the frozen tundra we live in!
The only picture I got of the two of them together:
So I've been SUPER busy the entire month of January but I was EXTRA busy the week of their party. I found a really cute snorkeling cake that they both agreed on for their birthday cake for the party. Great. BUT I only started looking into it the weekend before, which didn't leave me much time to plan and get the things I needed.
Oh, well. Jim would say I was behind the eight ball, but because he thought that I refused to let him be right and remained calm and kept ticking along! LOL I guess it probably helped me because I wasn't very stressed. Anyway, both kiddos picked chocolate cake, which is weird if you know Korri at all, but different fillings. Finn picked chocolate (duh!) and Korri picked strawberry (there's her normal self!!).
Here is the inspiration cake:
So I put Flat Finn on the bottom layer with the chocolate filling and I put Korri on the top layer with the strawberry. There are things I would have done differently (the frosting didn't cover very well and I don't know why!), but it did turn out pretty good and it was fun if nothing else.
And I had fun with the theme for decorating, too:
I used relatively new beach towels for table runners, which was a nice touch (since the tables were a little stained). The Pool Water punch was a big hit (blue Hawaiian punch, pineapple juice and ginger ale!), even though the container leaked. You can see the rest of the clever decorating. I like doing that stuff. Not sure what we'll do next year, but I think I'm going to make their cakes ONE their birthdays (so I can do individual themes that they pick) and then order cupcakes for the party! We'll see!
Oh, and while the water guns were a neat idea for a take home gift, it maybe wasn't the BEST idea to use during the party because EVERY body and thing was drenched. Oh, well. At least we're at a pool.
Thank you to everybody who came and made the Bigs feel so special. The only down side is the party room is super small so we can't include everybody we want do. Bummer. But they had a wonderful time! I mean, swimming in the middle of January is a nice treat, given the frozen tundra we live in!
The only picture I got of the two of them together:
Friday, January 19
Well Childs: 9 and 7
On Wed we had Finn (9 year) and Korri's (7 year) well child appointments after school. They changed dismissal from how I remember it...so we were a little late, but only by a few minutes. And Jim and Mac met us there and checked us in. Perfect. I really didn't have any concerns going in but I always like to see how they've grown.
We started with Finn.
Height: 51" 26% (49" or 25% in 2017)
Weight: 70lbs 72% (62lbs or 69% in 2017)
B/P: 102/60
BMI: 19 or 87%
His height percentage went up for the second year on a row!! I really hope that trend continues. I mean, I know it is only by 1% but I'll take it (and it is so far from where we came!). They tested his vision and hearing but I wasn't in the room for it and they didn't say anything, so hopefully they were fine.
Next was Korri. She's my rock star at appointments (I think she likes the accolades that come along with being brave!).
Height: 49.75" 83% (47.5" or 87% in 2017)
Weight: 72.6lbs 97% (60lbs or 95% in 2017)
B/P: 98/58
BMI: 21 or 97%
So, while she's slightly heavier, Finn is still taller by an inch and a quarter! I told him it won't be long until she catches up with him! Both grew TWO INCHES this year. Seems like a lot to me!
Korri remains on her same growth chart for BMI, so the doctor isn't concerned. I wish it would go down but we do what we can and the doctor just thinks that is how her body is (which I can relate to!). We talked about Korri's dry skin, as she's started getting rashes from the dryness. The doctor said to do what we've been doing but to add Aquafor or Vaseline if lotion stings. (Korri told me this week that the rashes have gone away, yay!).
And I think that was it! I mean, easy peasy. I asked about Mac's constant running nose and cough and she does NOT think it is allergies but rather cold after cold. Hmmm... He also has dry, rashy, itchy skin, so I'm not 100% convinced it isn't allergies. She said in the winter it is usually either pets (which we obviously don't have) or dust. I might put him on a low dose of allergy meds to see if it improves. Or I'll wait it out. We'll see.
Dr. Bies said you know we've had a good winter when Mac didn't know her when she came in! LOL No offense, but I hope we don't see her again until July ;)
We started with Finn.
Height: 51" 26% (49" or 25% in 2017)
Weight: 70lbs 72% (62lbs or 69% in 2017)
B/P: 102/60
BMI: 19 or 87%
His height percentage went up for the second year on a row!! I really hope that trend continues. I mean, I know it is only by 1% but I'll take it (and it is so far from where we came!). They tested his vision and hearing but I wasn't in the room for it and they didn't say anything, so hopefully they were fine.
Next was Korri. She's my rock star at appointments (I think she likes the accolades that come along with being brave!).
Height: 49.75" 83% (47.5" or 87% in 2017)
Weight: 72.6lbs 97% (60lbs or 95% in 2017)
B/P: 98/58
BMI: 21 or 97%
So, while she's slightly heavier, Finn is still taller by an inch and a quarter! I told him it won't be long until she catches up with him! Both grew TWO INCHES this year. Seems like a lot to me!
Korri remains on her same growth chart for BMI, so the doctor isn't concerned. I wish it would go down but we do what we can and the doctor just thinks that is how her body is (which I can relate to!). We talked about Korri's dry skin, as she's started getting rashes from the dryness. The doctor said to do what we've been doing but to add Aquafor or Vaseline if lotion stings. (Korri told me this week that the rashes have gone away, yay!).
And I think that was it! I mean, easy peasy. I asked about Mac's constant running nose and cough and she does NOT think it is allergies but rather cold after cold. Hmmm... He also has dry, rashy, itchy skin, so I'm not 100% convinced it isn't allergies. She said in the winter it is usually either pets (which we obviously don't have) or dust. I might put him on a low dose of allergy meds to see if it improves. Or I'll wait it out. We'll see.
Dr. Bies said you know we've had a good winter when Mac didn't know her when she came in! LOL No offense, but I hope we don't see her again until July ;)
Monday, November 27
Student of the Month
We have another student of the month in our house! (Finn was SOM in Jan of Kindergarten). I write with great pride and joy that Korrigan was student of the month for November! Her teacher picked one student from her classroom. Here are the words she wrote for why Korri earned this honor:
Mrs. Erger is nominating Korrigan Thomas for student of the month in her first grade classroom. Korrigan is always listening when the teacher and other classmates are talking. She is respectful and shows that she cares about what others have to say. She also shows these great listening skills when she is in the audience at an assembly. She makes everyone feel welcome and always includes them in games and activities, which makes her a great friend. She has been a kind classmate to the new student in our classroom and is always willing to help. Keep being a great example to others, Korrigan!I almost cried when Korri gave me the note last week. I mean, she doesn't have any major issues at school, but she does struggle (more with the social stuff than academic). She often doesn't want to go to school and says how "hard" it is and how she "h word" school. But this shows what I've thought all along...she is doing great and is probably focusing on a few small things that don't come super easy to her instead of all the good, easy things she does do! I mean, she was the "All Star" in her class last year, so she/we must be doing something right!!!
Wednesday, November 22
Uncharted waters
Finn and I embarked on a new adventure to anybody in the Thomas household...a visit to the Orthodontist! Neither Jim nor I had braces, so I don't really feel this is "fair" that we have to go at all! I mean, send somebody who caused all this fuss to THEIR parents!!
Needless to say, I was NOT looking forward to the visit today, but since Finn's birth, I was told it was coming. It was time. The reason really is to get a benchmark for the future and see where he's at right now (but I didn't know where he was "at right now"!).
The appointment could not have gone better. The orthodontist basically said the issues Finn has are minor and he'd like to see us back in about 6 months to see if there has been improvement or not. And the issues Finn has are from thumb sucking NOT his early birth! The orthodontist said those issues at birth seemed to have correct themselves (Finn had facial and mouth asymmetry and narrow/crowding). I felt a huge weight lifted from my shoulders that I didn't know was there.
Finn's issues are normal child issues and the orthodontist thinks they may correct themselves as his mouth grows, since he doesn't suck his thumb any more! Praise God! Now we'll just wait and see. And to make things better, Finn loved the office, people and the visit (no pain!!). So that helps for future visits.
Korri has the same issues as Finn (or so I was told by our dentist), so we'll be back there in a year or two for her. But I have a feeling hers are going to be more severe because she sucks her thumb for frequently and for longer duration than Finn has/did. Argh! Oh, well, could be worse. We'll deal with both when the time comes.
Needless to say, I was NOT looking forward to the visit today, but since Finn's birth, I was told it was coming. It was time. The reason really is to get a benchmark for the future and see where he's at right now (but I didn't know where he was "at right now"!).
The appointment could not have gone better. The orthodontist basically said the issues Finn has are minor and he'd like to see us back in about 6 months to see if there has been improvement or not. And the issues Finn has are from thumb sucking NOT his early birth! The orthodontist said those issues at birth seemed to have correct themselves (Finn had facial and mouth asymmetry and narrow/crowding). I felt a huge weight lifted from my shoulders that I didn't know was there.
Finn's issues are normal child issues and the orthodontist thinks they may correct themselves as his mouth grows, since he doesn't suck his thumb any more! Praise God! Now we'll just wait and see. And to make things better, Finn loved the office, people and the visit (no pain!!). So that helps for future visits.
Korri has the same issues as Finn (or so I was told by our dentist), so we'll be back there in a year or two for her. But I have a feeling hers are going to be more severe because she sucks her thumb for frequently and for longer duration than Finn has/did. Argh! Oh, well, could be worse. We'll deal with both when the time comes.
Friday, October 6
Jim's Vows
I knew what I wanted to say to you today when I found our wedding album this week. The album was buried in the garage from when we moved. Some people might think that’s a bad thing. However, I think it is somewhat appropriate because we didn’t just continue to exist at that point in our relationship as great as it was in that moment; we moved forward and grew stronger and closer. As we committed to in our original vows, we’ve been together during, and gotten through, ups and downs. As time has gone on, I believe that we have chosen to exist in the present and planned and looked forward to the future, while remembering and learning from the past. I want to thank you for being as good of a wife and mother as you were and are my best friend. As we celebrate and enjoy this moment, I promise to you that I will continue do my part to make sure that today is better than yesterday and for as long as we have tomorrows, that tomorrow is better than today. I love you.
Why I Said I Do
Renewal vows for 10th Anniversary
By: Stacy Thomas
10/06/2017
Jim, my love, my life, my partner, my true best friend. After many (MANY!) years of NOT being married, I thought I got married for ME. I wanted a husband. I wanted a nice house with a big yard. I wanted somebody to do things with. I wanted to have a baby (or four!). I wanted to experience what everybody else experienced...a loving union between two people.
Then I realized I said I do for you. To love you. To serve you. To support you. To laugh with you. To cry with you. To fight with you. To make up with you. To give you a loving wife. To give you children. To give you a happy home. To help you succeed in all things you do.
And after 10 years, I now know that marriage is HARD work. It isn’t a wedding. It isn’t about what you want. It isn’t what you get in return. It is choosing to be together every single day. Every single hour. And some times, every single minute. Marriage isn’t 50/50. It is 100/100. Each of you giving all that you have all of the time. It is choosing to love each other during those times when you don’t necessarily LIKE each other.
I promise to fight WITH you for ME, for YOU but always for US. I am nothing without US. God says, “Two are better than one, if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” A good strong marriage is about two people who won’t give up on their original promise to each other and to put the other first. Marriage isn’t for me. And it isn’t for you. But it IS for US.
I loved you SO much on our wedding day. But I love you so much more now in such a deeper way. I can’t imagine loving you more than I do right now. And yet, life has taught me that I will. No couple is perfect. But a perfect marriage is just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other. I love you, my bestie. My imperfect partner. My everything. My forever.
By: Stacy Thomas
10/06/2017
Jim, my love, my life, my partner, my true best friend. After many (MANY!) years of NOT being married, I thought I got married for ME. I wanted a husband. I wanted a nice house with a big yard. I wanted somebody to do things with. I wanted to have a baby (or four!). I wanted to experience what everybody else experienced...a loving union between two people.
Then I realized I said I do for you. To love you. To serve you. To support you. To laugh with you. To cry with you. To fight with you. To make up with you. To give you a loving wife. To give you children. To give you a happy home. To help you succeed in all things you do.
And after 10 years, I now know that marriage is HARD work. It isn’t a wedding. It isn’t about what you want. It isn’t what you get in return. It is choosing to be together every single day. Every single hour. And some times, every single minute. Marriage isn’t 50/50. It is 100/100. Each of you giving all that you have all of the time. It is choosing to love each other during those times when you don’t necessarily LIKE each other.
I promise to fight WITH you for ME, for YOU but always for US. I am nothing without US. God says, “Two are better than one, if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” A good strong marriage is about two people who won’t give up on their original promise to each other and to put the other first. Marriage isn’t for me. And it isn’t for you. But it IS for US.
I loved you SO much on our wedding day. But I love you so much more now in such a deeper way. I can’t imagine loving you more than I do right now. And yet, life has taught me that I will. No couple is perfect. But a perfect marriage is just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other. I love you, my bestie. My imperfect partner. My everything. My forever.
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