One of the Best Days Ever

Yesterday started off ordinary enough. Breakfast. School. Lunch. Dr. Appointment. Then it got good. Really, really good.
Since we were already in East Lansing, we decided to go to the butterfly garden on campus. We love it there. I find myself, immersed in the life cycle. I search out eggs, caterpillars, chrysalis and delight over the flitting butterflies. I can stare a long time at any one thing, soaking it up and learning from it. My kids can too.
As we left the butterfly garden we decided to go the back way so we could see the pond. As we walked around, we came upon a compass rose. We had talked about them last week in the boy's Map Skills book, so we took a moment to figure out all the directions. Then we headed East to the pond. It did not disappoint. Frogs poked their heads through the lily pads, a turtle was soaking in the sun and tadpoles skittered around the bottom. We circled our way around the pond, looking for frogs, who were cleverly camouflaged. We saw strings of eggs and yet again I marveled at the cycle of life. Especially for the butterfly and the frog. So unique. So complex. A miracle.
I had brought along a book with me to the doctors office, I was nearing the end and was longing for a moment to finished it. I thought about the park where the kids could play as I read nearby. Then I thought about the horse farm on campus. I suspected there may be some foal's. The kids could watch the horses for a bit, while I read, even if it would only be a chapter or two.
On our way we remember the dairy cows and decided to check the calves out as well. The dairy farm was closer so we headed there. First the milking parlour and to our delight, the cows were milking. The kids asked question after question about the milking process. Using the signs around and some previous knowledge, I answered their questions. We sat there 20-30 minutes watching the cows being milked, cleaned and sent out of the parlour.
Next stop, the pregnant mamas. We walked down the length of the barn, reading their due dates. Then they discovered their ear tags. We talked about the numbers and then read off all their names. Back up and down the barn. All sorts of names. I am so very thankful we did not rush through, with a seen that mentality. If we had, we would have missed it. "Mom, what's that? It looks like she's bleeding." The heifer was in labor. She was indeed bleeding as her mucus lining had ruptured. We stood there watching her amazed. "Here comes a contraction." We watched as her body tightened and did it's work. It was obvious she was in labor. "Mom can we stay and watch?" "Sure, I don't know how long it will take but we can stay." So stay we did.
The workers came along and we asked how long the process may take. He said anywhere from an hour to four hours. They moved her to a birthing stall, where she could roam around. They laid out fresh straw. As she adjusted to the new location, we decided to go check out the calves. They were a few barns over and eating their dinner. One named Spice did not shy away and allowed us to touch her nose. The kids laughed as he tried to taste their sweatshirts. Again we read all the names. Then headed back to check on the laboring mama. One thing was for sure, my kids did not want to miss the birth.
We checked in on her and found that she hadn't progressed any. One of the residents checked her and the baby was in the proper position but it would probably be awhile yet. I presented the kids with their choices. 1. Stay and watch. Even though it looked like it would an hour or more. 2. Go to McDonald's, eat dinner and then come back. They went for option 2. We ate and they played. Yet they were slightly concerned that we should not be too long. I set my watch and as soon as it went off, shoes were on and kids were ready to leave. I don't think we have ever been ready to leave McDonald's Playland so fast.
When we returned it was obvious she had progressed but not too much. We didn't miss it. The kids were relieved. Bob, the manager had placed bales of straw for the kids and I to sit on as we waited. So that's what we did. We waited. She was progressing and with each push you could see her bag of waters with hoofs sticking out. After a few good pushes she would stand up and take a break. Sometimes for just a minute or so, other times for long stretches. I didn't blame her, I remembered wanting to change positions and take breaks after I had made progress. Then she would lay back down and let her body do its work. Soon there was two hoofs. With each contraction, her eyes would bulge, her tail would lift and her body would push with all she had. The staff would check every so often on her progress. On one such check the boy announced that another cow was ready for the birthing stall, and she was. The kids helped lay out the straw and maneuvered the gates to help bring her down. They were completely absorbed in the process and the staff was great to us. Telling us about the whys and the hows, answering our questions and allowing us to help where we could.
As we waited I read and finished my book. The kids patrolled the barn we were in, checking on the cows. They moved th bales of straw around so they could hide out in a little fort. I was amazed at their patience. They were most definitely committed to seeing the birth. I was also amazed at their maturity about the matter. They weren't grossed out. Not like the group of inner city high schoolers that had stopped by early in the labor process. They jumped about, pointing and "Ew"ing, with Oh mans, and more "Ews". Not my kids, they watched in fascination and wonder.
Then the time came. She was actively pushing and I could tell she was close. I stood up and leaned against one of the fences to get a better look. I called the kids over and propped them up. Moments later we saw the hoofs out front, like superman. Next, the tip of the nose. Then the head. Once the head was out, it was one more push and she was out. The workers came just as she was giving her final push. They helped get the final hoof out and announced, "It's a heifer." A girl. Little girl smiled at the pronouncement. The time was 8:18pm. Next, they tickled her nose with a piece of straw to get her to sneeze. Then they loaded her up on a sled. Just like you would take sledding on a winter's day. And moved her down to the warming house.
Currently, there is a disease at the farm that is spread from mother to calf. For this reason, they are separated at birth. The mother didn't seem to mind, one bit. But I found it sad.
We followed the workers and watched the process of drying the calf, cleaning the umbilical cord, administering the antibiotic and placing her in the warming house. They talked as they worked, telling us what they were doing and why. We asked how they named the cows and they said they use the first letter of the mother's name and come up with something. They use baby books and try not to duplicate a name. Usually a staff member will do that the next day, when she would be tagged.
Then the workers went off to thaw the colostrum and record the birth.
At this time the other heifer was looking close to birth and the kids wanted to stay longer to watch that one too. It was nearing bedtime but they were wide awake and completely enthralled with the cows so I consented. Bob moved the bales of straw closer to the birthing heifer. They moved the new momma back to her stall and she made not a sound in the direction of her baby. We sat back down and once again waited. The second cow seemed more distressed about the little cow being away. As the worker later told us, she thought this baby was hers. She would look over to the warming house. Then she would lay down, push and stand back up, like where is my baby. She would look around the stall and then finally lay back down and push some more. She was definitely distracted and this slowed down her progress. Then Liz came, another worker on the farm. She wasn't on duty that night but she is a sucker for births so she stuck around. She was awesome. She took the kids under her wing and told them all about the birth process. Another worker Matt came to check on Mama #2 (Ellie) and ended up breaking her water. He attempted to pull the calf out but decided he would give her a little while longer to push it out on her own.
Then it was time to feed little girl calf. Liz asked the kids if they wanted to name her and of course they did. Her mom's name was Mame, so it would have to be a M name. While she got the colostrum around, we thought about a good name. Millie, Molly and then we found one we all agreed on, Miley. After Miley Cyrus, you know Hannah Montana. Both Bob and Liz did not think they had a Miley and Liz boasted that it was a perfect name for this cow. Liz brought out the smallest gloves she could find and the kids put them on. Then they tried to get Miley to stand. She wobbled about, still very wet, and fell time and time again. So Liz had her kneel while they gave her, her first bottle. The boy helped, then little girl. The kids, giggled, so excited. Then they went to climbing on the bales of hay and straw. They found the best look out to keep an eye on mama number 2 (Ellie). She was now actively pushing and was ready to have the baby. Liz kept watch from the warming house across the aisle as I watched from the bale of straw. A hoof, Then two. This time the bag of water had already broken so there were two perfect little hoofs sticking out. A few more pushes and the head was out. Now, the Ellie had made her final resting spot right next to the bars of the stall and the calf had hooves sticking through the bars and then it's head. Liz, came over to help free it from the bars. Once she did that it was another push and the baby was out. This one, a boy! 10:15pm
I grabbed the sled and Liz went in to tickle the nose and place the baby on the sled. Ellie was a more in tune mom. She began licking her baby clean. Liz let her for a minute then placed the boy on the sled and took him across the aisle to the warming house. Where he too was towel dried and his umbilical cord was cleaned. My boy readied the gates to bring Ellie back to her stall. We named the boy Espn, after my sons middle name. Liz liked that name too. However, it would be unofficial as they do not name the boys. They will be sold.
With Ellie back in her stall and Miley and Espn in their warming houses we set to our good nights.
But first Liz called the kids into the office to watch her write Miley's name in the record book. It was official. A perfect ending to a amazing evening. It's not every day you get to be a part of something like that. And we are so very grateful to the staff for embracing us and letting us come along for the journey.
If ever you find yourself at the MSU Dairy Farm and a friendly cow named Miley, wanders over, tell her hi for us. We will never forget her or the night we learned about cows and the cycle of life. Ever.

Connection

My face lit up when I saw her, an unexpected sighting of an old friend. She had moved away a few years ago and was in the area for the day. We chatted for a bit before my meeting was to begin and she needed to head out. But before she left she said, "Sarah, you don't know how much it means that you even talked to me. Where I live right now I am some weird commodity. I am not Catholic enough for the Catholics, rich enough for the wealthy or crunchy enough for the granola crunchies."
Her words pierced me. Here is a lovely woman, longing for connection and not finding it.
My meeting was the steering committee for the new Westside Enrichment Day that will be starting in the Fall. There was five of us there but the heart of the meeting was connection. We want our kids to connect with other like-minded kids. We want them to know their names, their interests, who they are and develop long lasting friendships. In order to accomplish that we decided we have to be very intentional in our planning to create that environment.
The meeting was wonderful. In just under 4 hours time we mapped out what classes will be offered, the focus of each class and arranged the enrollment form. But more importantly than all the physical stuff we accomplished, I witnessed the budding of relationship. In the time we were there we accomplished more relationally than we did the whole 10 weeks of Enrichment Day prior. And so did our kids. While the moms discussed, the kids played for hours in the McDonald's Playland. And they enjoyed themselves. It was truly a beautiful afternoon for me.
It looks like I found my place to fit in. A new community. A solid connection with others on the same path. I pray my friend can find the same.

Liberty

A salty taste is still in my mouth as I type. The taste of my own tears. My son laughed as I choked my way through the story, tears streaming down my face. The story, Dreaming of America by Eve Bunting. The tale of the first immigrants to arrive to Ellis Island. We read it after watching an hour long documentary on the Statue of Liberty. In which I shed a few other tears.
Liberty-
1: the quality or state of being free: a: the power to do as one pleases b: freedom from physical restraint c: freedom from arbitrary or despotic control d: the positive enjoyment of various social, political, or economic rights and privileges e: the power of choice

Liberty! Freedom to do, be, say, worship and live, in any way we choose. I can scarcely wrap my brain around it. I am free! Free to read my bible and assemble in the church of my choice. Free to speak what I want and publish it for others to read. Free to own property. Free to vote and elect government. I am free to do these things and more.

Growing up here I don't think I fully appreciate this fact. Today I am. And today I shed tears, recognizing I am free. Not only here in America but in the eyes of my Lord.
John 8:36
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

Jury Duty

Not that long ago my son learned about Our American Freedoms in History. Personally, I never knew we had so many freedoms. How many can you come up with?
Will I will help you out and give you one. We have the freedom/right to a trial by jury. It's a great thing in our country that we are innocent until proven guilty and that we have the right to a fair trial by jury of our peers.
Last week I was summoned to jury duty. Six months ago I turned into the questionnaire and last week was my week of service. While the timing was not the most ideal, as we are still in the thick of schooling, I was excited about seeing what happens in our local judicial process. The summons was for one week or one trial. Last weekend I called in and the recording stated I was to go in Monday morning.
I have never had a substitute teacher before. Ever. In the past if I was not available, there was no school for the day. With school already pushing until the end of June, each day is precious in completing our curriculum. Sunday night I got all the lesson plans around, thankful that it was already a lighter day than normal. I took them over to my mom's and showed her what was what. Complete with post it note instructions. I saved the actual Phonics lesson for when I got home, even if it meant after dinner home work. Monday morning, we got up earlier than we ever have as a family. Out the door before 7am. With hubby to work and the kids at my parents,I headed downtown to the court house. I have a dear friend who lives a few blocks from the courthouse so I parked at her house so I did not have to worry about paying to park.
Before my appointed 8am time I was nicely seated in the jurors assembly room with 100 or so other jurors. We went through an orientation and then waited for a judge to call us up for the selection process.
When the judge called us up, they crammed 55 of us potential jurors into the court room. We swore to tell the truth and then we were seated. The judge introduced the prosocuting attorney, the defense attorney and the other court staff present. Next, the computer randomly selected 13 of the 55 to be seated in the jurors box. I was not one of them. Instead I remained seated and listened to the process of selecting a FAIR jury. To make sure that the defendant is given a fair jury, many questions were asked of the jurors to make sure none had a bias one way or the other. The questions were interesting. After the long questioning session, each lawyer was alloed to excuse jurors in the box with or without a given reason. As each juror was excused another name was called into the box and they went through a questioning period, much briefer and usually ending in an immediate dismissal of that person. This process went on until both lawyers were content with the jury and then we were dismissed. The whole process of selecting the jury took about two hours and forty-five minutes. At 12:15 we were free to go.
Here's the great part, I am getting paid for going in and learning about the judicial process. For my 4 hours and 15 minutes of my time I will be receiving a check of $25. Most people when they are summoned to serve jury duty take a pay cut to serve. Not me, it was a pay raise. And since it was after noon, it was considered a full day. Yippee!
After I left the courthouse I walked back to my friends house and had lunch with her before going to pick up the kids.
They were so excited to find out what art project grandma had planned that they were finished with the school stuff I had sent for them by 9:30am. They cruised through school. I was able to finish up the Phonics lesson when we got home. So it all worked out very well.

Although I had to call in every night for the remainder of the week, I never did have to go back in. Oh and just in case you were wondering, I never did get called into the box. Although I know I would have been dismissed had I been called in. I knew one of the witnesses and the plaintiff was a 7 year old boy, the same age as my son. So there you have my adventure exploring one of our American Freedoms. Anyone want to guess how many freedoms we have?

Information

I attended the meeting on the proposed Park Trail and left quite encouraged. Here's what I learned:
Benjamin Davis Park has a trust. Since the community has never requested monies for improvement of the park, it has sat there untouched for years. No longer. The proposal I mentioned in the previous post, will make use of some of that money for phase 1 and 2 of the Davis Park Project. This will make a shared use path around the park as will as develop some of the rustic trails through the woods. They are planning on using asphalt removed from current Lansing roads as they make pot hole repairs as a base for the pathway. This could begin as soon as July with the hopes of completion in August of this year. Budget approvals will take place in May. From there they will work with engineers to finalize plans and then set it into action.
They are hoping for the community to take part in the process. By attending meetings and giving feedback. At a designated time there will be opportunities to participate in brush clearing. Of course, we are all free at anytime, in any park to help in litter clean-up.
By making Benjamin Davis a more family friendly park, they are hoping that the community will embrace it, use it and help to keep it a safe and pleasant place for every one.
Phase 3- Sidewalk extension from Miller to Jolly is something MDOT is working on. It may be constructed as soon as July 2009.
Phase 4 is probably 3-5 years out. Which is the connection of 19 city parks using the Consumer's Energy Right of Way. Possibly sooner if citizens would voice there favor of the trail. They are looking at bridges to crossover major roads and light crossings. There is a lot of things still to be worked out but progress is being made to make this dream a reality.
Also, I did not previously mention but they have applied for an MDOT Transportation Enhancement grant to construct a shared-use pathway on the east side of Waverly. In my opinion, this pathway is WAY OVERDUE. They are still working out a couple of right away issues.

What I took away from this meeting is that I have opportunities to get involved in my community. I am considering starting a neighborhood group. Things happen when people come together. So let's get together people.

Oh, and while I am passing on information. There was a myth debunked at this meeting. There has never been any sort of proposal to sell Fenner Nature Center. It is a City Park and nothing can happen to that park, nor ever will, without the vote of the people of Lansing.

If you are interested in knowing when the next meeting will be, leave a comment and I will try to pass on information as I receive it.

Evidence of Spring

Song of Solomon 2:12
Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land.

My daffodils are here and they make me want to sing of Spring. Praising God for the flowers and new life all around.

Attention Southside

For those of you living on the South side of Lansing the following information may be of interest to you.

This Saturday, April 19, 2008 from 1-3pm at the Fire Station on the corner of Jolly and Pleasant Grove there will be a community meeting.

The topic of discussion? The Benjamin Davis Park Trail, Information and Design.

I don't know about you but health and fitness are one of my passions. So when I heard about the proposal for Benjamin Davis I was thrilled. Don't know what I'm talking about? Let me fill you in. There is a 4 part proposal to improve the park and connect 19 city and county parks to the river trail.

Phase 1
12ft shared use asphalt path around clear perimeter of Davis Park.

Phase 2
Reclaim rustic trail through Davis Park woodlot.

Phase 3
12ft shared use asphalt path connecting Davis Park with Southside Community Center (located within Harry Hill) and extensions north to Jolly rd and South to Miller.

Phase 4
12ft shared use trail along Consumers Energy Right of Way from Waverly to Aurelius. This will connect 5 neighborhood parks in south Lansing to the River Trail on Sycamore Creek near Jolly and Aurelius.

I am excited about these proposals as it would allow us access to many miles of running and biking paths. I plan on attending the meeting. I hope to see you there.

To RSVP or for more information contact: South Lansing Community Development Association at 374-5700 or email SLCDA@comcast.net

Happy 7th Birthday

Dear Son,

Can it be you are really 7? I know it's true but the year seems to have gone by so fast.

First grade. You have developed into a great reader. It warms my heart when you curl up with a book and read to your sister. I pray that you will have a life long love of reading. I know this year was so important in that regards. It amazes me how many sounds and blends there are in words. You are doing so well. I know there are still tricky words and things that don't sound like they should. Don't worry, you will have those figured out soon enough. And Math, you are a math whiz. You grasp these concepts so quickly. It seems like the words are barely out of mouth and you already know how to do them. It makes me wonder what you will do when you grow up. One thing I know, you love learning what makes things work. You want to know how everything is made and how it does what it does. I think you could live your life watching the Discovery Channel. Especially, How It's Made and Survivor Man. I am not sure where you learned to make traps out of downed branches. But I do know that you mastered the art. Not that I am thrilled that you cut down so many branches out of the pine tree. But I do understand. You are a boy that is growing and discovering in everything you do. And your trap WAS really COOL.

You are one of the most observant people I know. You have the ability to see what others walk right past. On car rides we love to look for wild life as we drive. You love spotting the deer, hawk and any other creatures that comes into view. Remember the coyote that walked right in front of us on his way to the turkeys. Or the day we saw 24 deer, 2 hawks, 4 sand hill cranes, 4 geese, black birds? I love that you love nature and animals. Another one of our favorite past times in the car is "I'm Thinking of an Animal, Do You Know What It Is?" We have so much fun, guessing different things about the animals and figuring them out. I'm not sure there are many other first graders that know words like nocturnal, echolocation, carnivorous, mammal or marsupial.

And the weather! One of your favorite people is Rob Dale the meteorologist. You love to turn up the radio when he gives the report. Some days you don't want to get out of bed until you have heard the weather. And man when you prayed for snow this past winter, God heard. He sent more snow than we have seen in years. Next year do you think we can pray for a little less. Please!

Lately you have gone into training. You want to do the triathlon for kids coming up next month. I know you are going to great. You often ask to go over to the track to run. And now that the weather is warmer we can ride our bikes. I'm glad you love your new bike, I know you will get a lot of use out of it in the years to come. It's fun watching you take care of yourself in such healthy ways.

I think you have a secret crush on Hannah Montana but you don't come out and say it. I think I have watched every single episode of Hannah Montana and the Sweet Life of Zach and Cody, a couple times each. Sweet niblets.

I am so thankful that you and your sister are growing closer and closer each day. You started out the year not wanting anything to do with her because she was a girl but now, you two are almost inseparable. She's going to be your best friend in the years ahead. Whether you know it or not, I think she already is. Oh, I know you would say your cousin is your best friend and he is but it's good to know you have one in the bedroom next to yours.

While I am being thankful. Thanks for all your hugs and sweet kisses. I am so thankful you are not too old or too cool to show your mom some love. I hope you you never are.

Thanks for an awesome year. You are an incredible, awesome kid. It is a privilege to be your mom. Have a great time being 7! Just no more branches off the old pine, OK?

Squeeze, squeeze, squeeze!
Mom

Riding Milestone

Little girl did it! She rode all the way to my parents house on her own bike. It is 2 miles one way, crossing one major street and many smaller streets. She did so well. Making sure was all clear before she crossed. She never complained about how far it was. She was too busy grinning from ear to ear.

After visiting with grandma and grandpa for just over an hour we made th return trip. 4 miles in one day on her own bike while still 4 years old. YEAH!

I forgot to take my camera with me. But just before we left, we gave the boy his birthday gift. A new bike. He loves it!

Ceative Uses of a Hula Hoop

The boy creatively tied a piece of string to his hula hoop and made a lasso out of it.
This video is of target practice. Watch out, it appears we have a cowboy in training.

And he ropes a cow.


And pictures of little girl trying to make it twirl.

Technology Fast- Worth It!

For one week, our family successfully unplugged the TV. Strike that rewind. The kids and I successfully unplugged the TV. As Dad was out of town on business for the sermon last week, he watched TV. And when he came home he did sneak a couple hours of viewing in while we were sleeping. Oh well.
If it were not for my husband I would totally ditch the tube. We had a fabulous week. The kids were active and imaginative. They played outside for hours. We explored. Saw some cool wildlife. Visited newborn kittens. We went places we have been wanting to go. And we read lots of books.

More on our adventures throughout the week.

I have so much to say...

That I can not possibly include it all in one post.
So over the course of the next few days, you will probably see many mini post.
But first things first, finish school.
See you soon.

Technology Fast

Interesting term isn't it...technology fast. You may be asking yourself, what does that mean? Well, I am glad you asked. For the next week my family will be taking a fast from technology. Turning off the TV, unplugging the computer and leaving the cell phone on the charger.
Next, you may ask, why? Again, good question. At church this morning, the pastor spoke about the distraction in our lives. The pace of the American people. We are a busy people that dread silence and slowing down. We live our lives at full speed with more distractions than we know what to do with. I personally feel like it contributes to the physical and emotional state of our nation.
So the pastor challenged us to turn off our TV's for the week. To literally turn them around and hid the remotes. A technology fast.
For my family, I have decided this will include all forms of technological distractions. The computer, this blog will be silent for a week. Fear not, they still make paper and I will attempt to journal our adventure. The TV is quite literally turned around, the dish card removed and placed with the remote, out of sight. The video games and Leapster, unaccessible.

The kids response-
Little girl- WHY? That will be so boring.
The boy- Attended service and heard the message. He willingly embraced the challenge.
Little girl is now open to the idea since it is only a week. But I am sure she will feel the effects of it.

I am thrilled! I look forward to a week of learning, playing in the outdoors, reading books and cleaning house. And perhaps even a nap.

If anyone wants to get a hold of us, call, write or drop in.

See you all in a week!

I Nominate...

My cat, for the Cat of the Year!
This morning I woke up with bad cramps. I decided to stay in bed as the rest of the house was still sleeping. As I lay there debating what to do, my cat comes over. She plops herself onto my belly and began kneading. She started in exactly the spot that hurt the most. For 10 minutes she gently kneaded and massaged her way across my abdomen and back. It felt wonderful. Amazingly, my cramps are now gone. My cat is the greatest!

Imagine the Divorce Rate

Little girl came to me with her princess dress.
"Mom can you help me put it on, I want to get married today."
I help her with the dress and she goes about playing.
45 minutes later she comes back.
"Mom can you help me take this off, I am DONE being married."
I suppressed a laugh, could not withhold the smile. I went on to explain to her that when she really gets married she can't just take off the dress and not be married anymore.
"I know Mom, I'm just pretending."

Webkinz Crown of Wonder

Alas, I finally got my Webkinz Crown of Wonder. I have been trying to find my last gem for 4 months. 4 months people.
Introducing Queen Lucy Goosy, please excuse the dimness of the picture.

Now, I am only 5 gems away from earning my second. :)

Why You May Want To Wait

to ride and/or walk on the River Trail.

We had so much fun watching people as they got near and decided what to do.
3 out of 6 continued on.

Random Pictures From My Camera

MSU Butterfly Garden
The boy loves it here because they allow you to handle the butterflies. As long as you do not touch their wings.


Can you imagine giving birth to this?


Little girl gets her OWN library card.
I love that happy face.


Little girl asks to wash her feet this morning.
OK?


And the boy takes a self portrait.


Have a great day!

Amazing Pics from the Zoo

The kids and I went to the local zoo today with my parents.
My dad got some incredible shots of the animals.
Check them out!




Are those not beautiful? Nice job Pops!

Daily Plate

After being SO diligent during the month of January, I slowly stopped tracking on My Daily Plate. In February, I did track half-heartedly. Then I got bronchitis and workouts were more sporadic. ARGH! I have been floating around the same weight all of Feb and March. Give or take a pound, I have been at the same weight.
So Daily Plate, I am back. I am going to be as diligent during the month of April as I was during the beginning of the year. I have to be, the triathlon is 2 months from today.

OH YEAH...my sister won the weight loss challenge at her work yesterday. She has lost over 30 pounds since the beginning of the year. Conrats, sis! You rock.

Elephant Painting...

This elephant is a better artist than I am!
Watch this video and be utterly amazed.

Orville and Scout 2008

If you have been reading this blog for over a year, you may remember my fascination with the peregrine falcons. It's that time again. The falcon cam on Rhodes Tower in Columbus is once again live streaming the clutch of Scout and Orville. Last year was Scout's first clutch so while she did lay eggs, they did not hatch. This year is anticipated to be a successful clutch.
Over the weekend she laid her first egg and she will most likely lay another 2-3 over the next few days. Here's a look of egg number one.

To check out the blog for the Rhodes Tower falcons see here, http://ohioperegrinefalcons.blogspot.com/
To check out the live feed falcon cam see here,
http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/wildlife/dow/falcons/columbus.aspx

On occasion the live feed is down. Click on the still image feed to still get a view of the nest box or ledge.

My Bracket's

are officially dead.
Never in my years of doing bracket's for the NCAA tournament have I ended my run in the sweet sixteen. Never.
I ended up with 36 correct wins.
Hubby's bracket lives on with North Carolina.

How Alert Are You?

Field Trip To Grand Rapids -Part 2

After leaving the Meijer Gardens last Thursday, we headed out for lunch. A quick pass down Beltline and we all agreed on Applebee's. My kiddos love Applebee's. Especially Orange Chicken. The boy surprised me when he ordered Chicken Noodle Soup with a Shrimp Spinach Salad. Yummy!
Next, we broke our 3 month drought of caching and hit 4 geocaches in the area. Quick and easy ones.
Lastly, we went to the Grand Rapids Children's Museum. Fabulous place. $5 per person unless you hit Thursday Family Night, then it is $1 per person. If you have young children, I highly recommend you get to this place.
Here are many pictures for your viewing pleasure.
The Post Master...

The dentist...

The Bank Teller...

The Carpenter...

My fabulous sculpture...

Shopping at the Grocery Store...

Acting in the Theater...

Muscle Triplets...

And a lovely shot of the Bee Keeper...

Hands-on experiences are around every turn. Making my kids happy explorers. And ending our day in Grand Rapids with smiles all around.

Follow-up

Today the little girl and I go to see the Pediatric Urologist. Things seem to be back to normal but I want answers and knowledge should it ever happen again. In light of our day, today's quote of the day, fits perfectly.

Alfred Hitchcock

"The length of a film should be directly related to the endurance of the human bladder."

I do agree.

Update:
It appears little girls condition may have been a viral infection. Which is why meds did not help and nothing showed up on the ultrasound. She has fully recovered and chances of a reoccurance are slim. Very thankful for everyone's prayers.

Christ Has Risen...

Field Trip To Grand Rapids- Part 1

The kids and I had a fabulous day in Grand Rapids.
Our first stop was Meijer Gardens to see the butterflies. They are currently featuring Foremost's Butterflies Are Blooming. With over 40 species of butterflies, totally more than 6,000. In an open 15,000ft conservatory, the butterflies flit around you as you walk through beautiful landscaping and see them in action. It is an awesome sight. With guide in hand we excitedly identified the different ones we saw. My favorite was the Common Morpho, a brilliant blue butterfly, rather large in size. It mostly flew around, rarely stopping for a sip of nectar. When it did stop I noticed it was a rather boring brown on the outside. Great camouflage!
Here are a few shots I got along the way...
As the guide did not have every specie in it we did not get a confirmed ID on this fellow. We believe he is in the Postman family.

This beauty is an Asian Atlas Moth. It was HUGE. Easily an 8inch wingspan.

These two are a type of Swallowtail

Inside there was also an arid room and a room of carnivorous plants.
Check out this Tropical Pitcher Plant.

While I had never been to the Garden's, this trip will definitely not be my last. The grounds are gorgeous with sculptures lining the pathways. After our visit to the conservatory we bundled up and went outside to the Children's Garden area. I want to go back and see it in all its Summer glory. The kids enjoyed playing in the tree house and checking out the log cabin. We walked only a small fraction of the various outdoor garden areas. So when we return we will have much to explore.

While in the Children's area we warmed up in the information area while playing dress-up and doing some arts & crafts. Little girl was adorable as she tried on the various butterfly wings. And the craft they made turned out great as well. An old fashioned clothespin with tissue paper for wings, pipe cleaner for the antenna and legs.

While leaving the building the kids stopped to smell the many flowers that lined the wall in the main hallway. Smelled like Spring. Smelled so sweet.

Stay tuned for Part 2

Snopes is My Friend

Crazy, I know! Three post in one morning after a blogging drought.

This morning I was reading through my Bloglines and found this on Snopes. WooHoo!

For those of you that will not click on links. Let me break it down for you.
If you are a good tax paying individual who submits their Federal Taxes by the April 15th deadline, you will receive the Economic Stimulus payment. If you indicated direct deposit on your return you will receive this Stimulus payment on either May 2, 9 or 16th depending on the last 2 digits of your social security number. All others will be snail mailed between May 16th and July 11th also depending on the main filers last two digits of SSN.

So now if you want to know when your check will be arriving, go look at the chart. Note not the first chart in green, this is outdated from 2001. Scroll down to get the accurate dates for the 2008 Economic Stimulus. You can also go directly to the IRS site with the chart, here.

Woohoo! I am very thankful that these checks will arrive before my summer travel plans. Now I don't need to worry how I will pay for the ever increasing gas prices to get to my family reunion in the UP.

Unfortuantely, these checks do not solve Americas budget and economic crisis. But hey if they are handing it out, I will gladly cash it.

First Song

The boy's first rendition of Cat Scratch Fever.

Enjoy!

Choices

I mentioned here a week or so ago about the struggles I am facing with one strong-willed child. While I do believe she has always had the tendencies of a strong-willed child, I feel that they are most definitely taken to new heights in light of the current medical frustrations. I was talking with another mother at church on Sunday, her daughter saw the same specialist we are seeing next Monday. We talked about the doctor, what to expect and behavior. I asked her if she thought her daughter had acted out when she was out of control with her body. And her response was YES YES and YES. I asked what she did and while it sounds so simple, it seemed so profound at the same time. "We offered at lot of choices." More choices than normal. Giving the child a sense of control over reasonable aspects of their lives.
Without realizing it, I have been doing this. What do you want for breakfast? Where do you want to go? What do you want to do? What are you going to wear?
I have been trying to eliminate battles and sometimes choosing not to fight certain ones. Especially in the what will you wear department. And let me tell you people, we have had some interesting combos going on in this place. Most days, she starts out wearing WHATEVER she wants. Bright pink sweatpants with a purple striped shirt was the outfit of yesterday. We went out in public in it. Some days I ask her to change before we go out. Lately, I have not been even batting an eye. Check out what we went out in the other day. A beautiful black felt dress complete with burgundy flowers. White tights. Bright pink boots. A rainbow sweater. And a swim cap. Yes ladies and gentlemen, I went into Dick's Sporting Goods and Wal-Mart with this child and smiled all the way through the stores.

The old ladies especially gave me winks behind suppressed smiles. I kept smiling. One thing that you can say about my daughter is she has a sense of independence.
This is what little girl is wearing today. Hot pink sweat pants. A pretty pink floral skirt. And a white long sleeved t-shirt that says STAR in fraying sequence.

Yes, we all have choices and sometimes it is good to allow a little more than normal.

Sometimes the result is simply adorable.

Impression 5 Museum

Last Thursday we went on a field trip to Impression 5 Museum. It is a great children's science museum in downtown Lansing. We went as a part of their home school science day, with a class focusing on circuit builders. Since my boy is very much into circuits and all things electronic it was a great class for him to come and get connected with. My hubby gave him his electronic board from when he was a boy and my son has loved making the wires connect. I know the boy can focus when he wants because he will literally sit focused on that board for over an hour. Putting all the wires from point A to point B, then to point C and so on until 25 wires later he has made a siren or a light sensor. So this class was one we definitely wanted in on.

While there we explored the museum and had a great time. I did not take pictures of everything we did so some things you will need to use your imagination. First we went to the bubble room. I think the kids could have spent their whole day in this room. Encasing themselves in a tunnel of bubble. The wall of bubble. The giant bubbles. The weird shaped bubbles. The what happens when you use a tube of air in bubble mix? The loved it.

Next up was laws of physics. A softball pitch that recorded the speed of your pitch. DS pitched a 28mph. We launched 2 liter balls into the air. Built pressure and launched tennis balls at targets. Fun stuff.

Then we hit the water room. Sending a boat down the locks. And building a pipe line.

Then it was time for the boys class. Little girl and I stayed in the class for the first half and then decided to go check out the new room for 4 year olds and under. It was a room completely designed with little ones in mind. A water table just their size. Tree house. House with kitchen. Magnet light table. A area for crawlers. It was a great addition to the museum and we enjoyed spending time exploring it.

When the boys class ended we hit the next area, motion. We skimmed this ever so swiftly before making our way to my favorite feature which is the shadow wall. This has been a part of Impressions-5 since I was a kid and I still love it. You press a button and the beeps count down until it flashes leaving a shadow of whatever was in front of the screen. Through the years I have tried to be as creative as possible when the flash goes off. Jumping, swirling, hand stands. Anything crazy and fun to get a cool shadow.

Then we hit the health center. We checked out a few things but nothing really struck an interest for the kids. But the music room. They were totally into the music room. A piano that you can see the inside of. An assortment of percussion instruments. Xylophone. They thought it was cool.

As we were getting ready to leave we noticed one area we had completely overlooked on the way in. The media center. A progression of radios from the very first ancient model to modern day. A DJ booth that shows how the DJ's select songs and add sound effects to their broadcast. Then there was a green screen and a weather screen that the kids could make their own broadcast. I leave you now with little girls first ever meteorologist report.

I Like This Quote

Pablo Picasso

"I am always doing that which I can not do, in order that I may learn how to do it."

Swoosh

Where did the weekend go?
Chrysalis was yet again a beautiful time with God. Lives were changed, hearts were healed and some got a new beginning.
For me this weekend was about seeing myself as a parent. There were so many different speakers that spoke about how their lives were forever changed by their parents. The bad, child abuse, sexual abuse, longing for affirmation that was never found, the lack of loving words, the absence, lack of protection... the list goes on. The number of both speakers and girls in attendance that had been harmed by their parents was astounding to me. It left me praying, I hope I do not screw up for my children's sake. Things I say could drive them to an eating disorder. The things I do, could drive them into the arms of an abusive mate. The things I don't say or don't do, will affect my kids, perhaps eternally. I shudder.
And then there is the good. The mom that spent every morning in prayer. So that the daughter had to tiptoe up the stairs as not to disturb her. Knowing that her mother prayed for her and her sister without fail. This has eternally blessed her. And still another mother's close communication has allowed her daughter to make wise choices. Walking on paths of righteousness.
The contrast was so vivid and so extreme. A life of goodness or a life of pain. And the common denominator was the parent.

As I have come back home and tried to settle in. I have been head on with illness in the home. My boy crawled into bed with me in the night and I immediately felt the heat radiating from his body. The thermometer read 104.3, add the degree and it was determined HOT! I took him in today and he has started a round of antibiotic. Little girl has a low grade fever and not quite herself. There were moments today that were scary for me as a mother. My boy, laying there lethargic. Barely conscience. He slept the first half of the day away. Literally. I had to wake him periodically to get liquids in him and access him. His eyes glassed over. Scared the crap out of me. I had to ask him questions to make sure his mind was still there. Praise the Lord he still knew that 8+8=16. As he went to bed tonight he was back to himself. Eating and smiling. Still has a low fever but it sure beats the lifelessness of the first half of the day.
Not sure what the remainder of the week will look like for me and the kiddos. No school today and I have decided to take it one day at a time. If I get 3 or 4 days behind on my curriculum, so be it. I just want my kids to be healthy again.
If you think of us, say a prayer.
Our verse for this week is Psalm 136:1
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.

Thank you Lord, for my children. For your blessings. For doctors and medicine. For your Holy Spirit that is with us. For songs of praise.

I'm Ready To Fly

Amazing what 2 days on antibiotics can do for you. I am feeling much better. My voice has returned. And I am ready to fly.

This weekend I will be participating in a Chrysalis weekend. Where high school girls will hear the amazing love of Christ and draw closer to him. I am excited for all God is going to do this weekend. Lives will be changed. Hearts renewed. Hope for the weary.

Have a blessed weekend! If you think of me, say a prayer for this flight and the girl's who will be touched during it.

Diagnoises-

Bronchitis.

Did I mention I am leading worship for a three day even this weekend? Please pray that God restores me back to full health.

Character Development

Yes Ladies and Gentlemen, we are in the thick of character development.
It appears as though little girl is fighting for control. I think with everything that is going on with body right now she is feeling more and more out of control. And human nature screams to have control. It's tough stuff.
Prior to this current medical situation she was my strong willed, with a purpose kind of a child. I think she started out her fourth year on this earth thinking it revolved around her. Which I can relate to as I can clearly remember in third grade thinking that the world truly was run by ME. I remember thinking that it sure was a lot of work for everyone else to simply exist for ME. Of course reasoning came and I would not have choice to have this or that so maybe the world (gasp) did not revolve around me. A sad but great revelation.
As the year has played out we have been working on kindness toward others. Respect for others, especially those in authority. We were making good progress, or so it seemed. Enter this last month.
In the doctors office that first trip I saw a side of her never seen before. The "I am not going to do THAT", get out of my face, I will not do it Sam I am, I will NOT pee in a cup, NO Ma'am!
Then came the voice from within the my normally quiet in public child, was screaming at the top of her lungs that under No circumstances was she going to let them poke her with a needle. Who was this little girl? Well, by all physical and legal standing, this child is mine. The one birthed in my bedroom. Carried in my womb. But something was happening, still is happening. She was finding a voice of opinion, strong opinion. And while I found out from the doctor that this can be a good thing. A perpetrator would have a difficult time getting her to cooperate with some unwanted action. It is difficult as a parent.
It is boundaries 101 all over. She is testing and fighting boundaries all around. Not only with me but for the last 2 weeks she has been testing those in authority outside of the house. Our enrichment day with our home school co-op she has been blatenly disrespectful to the teachers. Telling them she does not need to listen to them. So frustrating.
There have been other fights for control. The oddest for me is her want/need to have the puke bowl with her every night. If you recall a month or so ago when we had one night of sickness. Enter the puke bowl. Handy to have in moments of sickness. Somewhere over the course of the last month she has taken to having it with her every night. Claiming she needs to have it near her, that she feels warm, or thinks she might get sick during the night. Yesterday when we cleaned her room, I took it out and put it out of reach. At bedtime she was super upset that she did not have. She woke up in the middle of the night, upset wanting the puke bowl. Not that she was sick, she just wanted it. Still this morning I had to hear about how she wants and needs it. I think it is all about her fighting to have control when she feels like her body is out of control. I understand that. Yet I can not let her rule this roost. I am still the parent and I need to maintain control of this household. Meaning right now we are in the thick of some serious character development. Yes we are.

Cute New Cuts

Friday Follow-up

Little girl was due to have her follow-up appointment with the doctor this afternoon. Unfortunately there was a scheduling mishap and she was not on the schedule for today. After waiting awhile for the doctor to call we finally got an update.
The kidneys are healthy. Praise God!
I shared with her the improvement we have seen. Which we are both thankful for. It has not fully improved at this time as she is still 30-60 minutes between bathroom visits but notable improvement with longer stretches at times. I also shared with her some new family medical history that I discovered this week. She was overjoyed at the news. It was like a huge boulder had been lifted from her and she audibly breathed out a sigh of relief. We will continue to look into the family history and see how it ties in with the current situation.
What she shared next was a huge Thank You Lord. She said she is very confident it is not a brain tumor. Praise God. As a brain tumor would not have improved at all and would have been accompanied with other symptoms.
Then she said she really did not feel that it was diabetes either. Praise God.
And we both had already ruled out the other option. Praise God.
So the uncertainties of last week are looking like they are no longer a concern. I still do not have definite answers. But I do know, God is in control. I know that we are covered in prayer. I am trusting that this will fully resolve itself, soon.
Thank you for your prayers and kind words over the last week. I truly appreciate each and every one.

Onto other news, I did go to see the Spirit of the Marathon movie. It was fabulous. I laughed. I cried. I left inspired. I am not sure what they plan to do with post production but I highly recommend seeing it. Whether you run or not you will be moved by these runners as they share their story. The motivation, the training, the injuries. Their struggles. their triumphant. It truly is remarkable.

Today was my first Michigan History lesson. I did all my research. I wrote the presentation and delivered it 3 times this morning to eager and attentive children, grades K-4th. It was really fun. After I got over my initial fears of doing it on my own. I really enjoyed myself. History is exciting stuff.

I found this You Tube of Sungha Jung on a video blog. This 11 year old guitar prodigy is incredible. Actually he is only 10 in this video. He blows me away. If you click on the link you will find many other songs he has preformed. AMAZING! I hope you enjoy this video of him playing Canon in D.


Canon in D - Sungha Jung (2nd time)

Awakened

ROOF ROOF, the deep bellow of our dogs bark awakened me. I jumped out of bed to see what was setting her off. She was stressed, scrambling around the kitchen and barking at the unknown.
I checked the front door, locked. I went to the back door to check it as well. My heart was pounding hard and was soon matched with pounding on our side door. I hurried to the back door and locked it as quick as I could. The visitor heard me at the back and announced himself, "Police, open up the door."
Now our side door is solid steel, no windows, no peephole. There was no way I was going to open the door, police or not to an unknown visitor, especially at 11:30pm. I yelled out to the officer to please go to the front door where I could see him. Which he did.
Now let me remind you that I was awakened from a peaceful sleep. I was slightly confused and disoriented. I peered out the front window trying to confirm the mans identity. He looked like a police officer but one can never be sure. So there I stood looking at him trying to decide what was happening. Then his female partner came around the corner of the house, also in full uniform and I knew he truly was an officer.
I cracked the door and he asked for me to secure the dog, which I did. Then I returned to the door to answer the interrogation that followed.
Police Officer(PO)- "Are you ok ma'am?"
Me- Yes, I was sleeping.
PO- "Who is in the house with you?"
Me- "My two kids, they are sleeping."
PO- "We received a report that you may be in danger. Are you sure you are ok?"
ME- "Yes, I'm ok."
PO- "Someone heard yelling coming from the house and was concerned for your safety. Any yelling or disputing tonight?"
ME- "I yelled at my son to turn off his light and go to bed."
PO- Something was said about an Eric who supposably was involved in the dispute, "Who is Eric, ma'am?"
ME- "No Eric here."
It was at this time that he took a good look at the house number. He read off our house address and I confirmed it.
PO- "I'm sorry ma'am. I have the wrong house."
PO2- "Sorry, go back to sleep and have a good night."

They walked away as my heart continued to pound. I called hubby to relate the happenings. He asked what I was wearing, I had not even thought about this. Thankfully, I was cold when I went to bed so I was fully dressed in my workout clothes.
After my heart rate returned to normal I tucked myself back into bed and went to sleep. Dreaming about being awakened.

Update: Little Girl

I have been remiss on giving an update on little girl.
We went to the ultrasound on Monday. We had a fabulous technician and I felt really blessed by her. She was bubbly and kind. She had over 20 years of experience and she worked really well with my daughter. Little girl thought it was fun to see inside her body so she was at peace during the whole procedure which only took a few minutes. She looked thoroughly at her kidneys and we were told they are "pretty kidney's." They looked good and no obvious problems there. Then she looked at her bladder to make sure she is emptying completely. She is! Which is a good thing. It means nothing is restricting her from going. Lastly she told us her daughter had a similar situation when she was 4. It corrected itself and all they did was lengthen the times between bathroom visits. So definitely hopeful there.
I think things are improving. I am at peace about things and very hopeful that we will receive a good report on Friday. Already she has lengthened the time between bathroom visits to 30-60 minutes. A HUGE improvement from the 3-10 it was on last Friday.
I know many people are praying for her, including many of you, my bloggy friends. Thanks you!

Still standing on the rock.

I'm Gonna Stand on the Rock

Little girl has been dancing around the house for the last couple of weeks singing this song. We videotaped it this morning for your listening and viewing pleasure. I hope it blesses you as much as it does me.

In the midst of frustration over bodily functions, she has remained full of joy. If anything she is more full of praise and joy than normal. I know right now she is covered in prayer. So many have heard our prayer request and are lifting her and our family up before the throne. It is so evident. And so appreciated.
This afternoon we go in for the renal ultrasound at 3pm (EST) She isn't scared. She has a peace about her. I think she is intrigued about seeing inside her body "and they aren't even going to cut me open to see in there."
The frequency of bathroom trips has lessened, she actually went an hour and a half yesterday without visiting the bathroom. Praise God, this fills me with hope. I don't know what is going on inside my daughters body, I have an idea of what's going on inside her heart. So for now we're gonna stand on the rock and believe that he has a plan and a purpose and His name will receive all the glory.

Prayer for Little Girl

It's been a bit of a stressful week. I have not been blogging much lately and trust me it is not because there is not anything to talk about.
On Saturday we took little girl to Urgent Care and were told she had a UTI (urinary tract infection) We went to the pharmacy and started her on a course of antibiotic.
Tuesday there was no change in the frequency of her bathroom needs so we stopped in quick to the Urgent Care to see if the culture report came back. The doctor had said he was sending it in and they should know something Monday or Tuesday at the latest. The culture came back as no growth. Odd but ok. The doctor was curious about her blood sugar so they pricked her finger and the number was in the normal range.
Today I took her into the family doctor as there has been no change and was feeling concerned. The news NOT GOOD.
They decided that it was NOT a UTI. What it is? There are no definite answers yet. The top 4 things on their list:
1 Kidney Malformation or abnormality
2 Diabetes
3 Inappropriate touch
4 Brain Tumor

Let's just say any and all of these things make me shudder. To think that there is something wrong that will not be fixed with a simple prescription is frightening. I was ok with UTI, taking a 10 course of antibiotic and being all better. Thinking that it is more, makes me want to cry. I haven't yet, simply because I am trying to keep a clear mind and wait for true answers. And at the same time none of the 4 options given really make sense. How do any of these things just randomly show up? Her issue is frequent urination (every 3-10 minutes) She is in no pain. Anywhere, not her abdomen, not her head, nor her kidney region. She does not have a long list of symptoms, just one. Frequent urination. And now that we are just over a week of dealing with it she is emotionally frustrated. Who wouldn't be. We can not go anywhere without having to use their facilities (many times.) She says no one has touched her and I completely believe her. She hasn't been in any situations in the last 2 months were I could even concieve something happening to her. But she says no one has touched her and I have to believe her. After the stink she raised about getting her finger pricked the doctor said she was not the typical victim. She is one to speak her mind, LOUDLY, if necessary and would not let it go unnoticed. She communicates effectively and is private about private parts. She doesn't even like her brother to see her in her underwear. Having someone get close enough to even consider harming her, highly unlikely. And again the thought makes me shudder.

I really need prayers for little girl. We have a renal ultrasound on Monday to take a look at her kidneys. Pray that we find out what the issue is.

I am off now to Google frequent urination. There has to be other options to consider.

Wanted

I am in need of childcare for the evening of Thursday February 21st from about 6:45-9:00pm

The reason I am in need of childcare is because I really want to go see this. It is a one night only showing, I missed the one is January not realizing that they were running it for only one night. I am in need of some inspiration and if you watch the movie trailer, I think this movie will provide just that.

I am also in need of a person to go and see it with me. Any one want to join me? Anyone want to take my kids?

We Have Made Our Decisions

We went with the sled based chairs.
Thanks to those who left comments!

Originally I thought I would choose black, as it would stain less and match the desks. Then I thought, "Hey these are THEIR chairs and who cares if they are covered in marker in year." They are going to spend a large majority of their time in them so I thought it best to let them decide on the color.
Little girl went with red. And the boy went with sunset (orange)

It's a good thing I got the order in today. I just received an email that the desks have been shipped. Which means they will be here on or before Monday. Woohoo! Which means I need to finalize the cleaning project.

He Cracks

My winter loving snow bunny has had enough.
Yesterday he said, "I can't wait for Spring. I like Winter with Christmas presents and snow but I wish it were Spring."

Mid-Michigan was dumped on with snow. All the schools are closed in the area, except ours. I figure he would rather do a Phonics lesson now rather than the middle of Summer when his friends ring the door bell wanting to play. So as for me and my house, we will be doing school. For the rest of Mid-Michigan, enjoy your snow day.

A Little Help Here

The following two chair styles are ones I am considering.

Four legged.
$20.79


Or sled based.
$31.00


I need some help here. Should I go with the 4-legged chair or the sled based. My kids tend to rock their chairs up onto 2 legs. Will the sled based not allow them to do that? Or will it be more dangerous, should they try? Price is not as much of a concern as safety is.
Next, should I go with standard black or let them pick out their own color?

For more on why I need chairs, see here.
Please people, I need a little your help.

A Bed Is For Sleeping

A bed is for sleeping in.
A couch is for lounging around.
A kitchen table is where you eat your meals.
The toilet is for (hopefully I don't need to fill in the blank for you on this one.)
For so long our kitchen table has been the hub of our every day activity.
We eat breakfast at the table.
We do school at the table.
Arts and crafts, yup, the table,
Lunch.
Dinner.
Game nights, most likely the table.
So much of our lives revolve around this one piece of furniture. If you take one look at it you can tell. It is scrapped and scratched. It has remnants of nail polish. The underside is one giant unapproved art canvas. The kitchen chairs are beat to pieces. Some are literally falling apart. Others are stained. They really were white once. Really.
Because so much activity happens in our kitchen I think it has caused major distractions to my boy. And a first grade boy does not need any additional distractions. Trust me on this one.
Some of my recent frustration has been over the fact that the kids are unable to focus. Some of this is due to character development, which we are working on. Other factors are it is easy to be distracted in the kitchen. There is food! Snacks calling to the kids from the snack bowl. There is a giant sliding door with a portal to the outside world, where snow beckons. Then there is the dog, that has an attention disorder, she demands it. The kids can be in the middle of a lesson and she will drop her ball in their laps begging for some one to play with her. What 6 year old boy would not love to play with their dog rather than do their school work? Mine throws the ball and tells her to bring it back. So...you see the distractions in place. It is so not working for me at the moment.
The solution:
A school room.
We have more than enough space in our basement. There is no food in our basement. There will be no dog in the basement. No ringing phone to pull me away from teaching. My hope is to create a positive learning environment that my kids can thrive in.
I ordered two of these desks. They will be delivered sometime in the next 2-4 weeks.

I like that they are adjustable to grow with the kids. I am glad they have a large surface area. And the cubby on the side is perfect for the books they use daily. I figure we can make a tray or something, to put the essentials in for the top cubby. Now I am in the process of finding chairs. At first I wanted adjustable chairs. But it appears they only exist in swivel varieties and I really don' think we need swivel chairs. So I may go with the smaller size chairs and move up as the kids grow. I want something where the kids can put their feet on the floor. Which is one disadvantage of kitchen table chairs. And I know the result of those. On knees or as is most days, children hanging upside down on them.
Since the basement has been pretty messy lately, I am in the process of getting it in order. Things are coming together.
Pretty soon, in our house:
The living room will be for entertainment and relaxing.
The bedroom will be for solitary play and sleeping.
The kitchen will be for eating.
And the school room will be for learning!

Break Throughs and Break Downs

On the surface things in my life are great. I am achieving goals. Workouts have been great and my eating controlled. There are things that are going really really well. And then, just under the surface a pot is brewing. Feeling like a failure in different areas of my life. And there are things that don't seem to be going well at all.
So over the last 4 days I have had a few break downs. Bawling. Sorting through how I really feel. Trying to get to the true root of things. Discussions with my hubby and the kids. And crying some more. Yesterday at church I sat in my car (30 degrees mind you) for an hour not going into church. When I finally went in I was an emotional wreck and was unable to teach my class. I am sure many saw a side of me rarely seen. A casual "How are you doing?" Resulted in tears.
How am I doing? Well, today I would say I am much much better. I think I got a lot of junk out that I have been burying down deep, trying to ignore. I let the Lord minister to me during the church service and I think he finally broke through. We were singing the song, "Oh no, you never let go, through every high and every low, oh no, you never let go, Lord, you never let go of me." And I know its true, he has never once, even for a second let go of me. Yet I have slipped away at times. I have said to him as I would say to my kids, "Hold on a second, I will get to that in a little bit." During the service I was reminded of a time in my life when I was completely broken. And God got a hold of me and I sobbed and I sobbed at that time to the point of snot streaming out of my nose. And I remember thinking at that time, "I need to get this junk out." I thin that was what yesterday was for me, getting the junk out.
Today is a new day. I can work out some of the details that cause me stress. I am not left completely out of control. I can lean more on Christ. I can take action where action is needed. I can praise him in all things, whether good or bad. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Secrets From My Food Diary

It's official, I have successfully logged every bite of food I have eaten for 31 days. The entire month of January. I started out writing in my notebook and tracking the basics, then on the 7th I found The Daily Plate(TDP) and kept at it electronically. At first I thought I would do it occasionally on TDP but found it rewarding and meaningful to keep at it. There are a lot of things you can tell about a person by reading their food diary. And lucky for you mine is public so you could read it for yourself if you so desired.
Here are a few secrets from January:
Guilty pleasure- Right Bites Chocolate Chip cookies (Keeblers 100 calorie snack packs)
I love the Hibachi Grill, we ate there twice. I had to enter it under a different restaurant to get it as close to possible.
I also ate at Subway 3 times. I don't consider this fast food. I did not eat what I would consider fast food (McDs or BK) at all. Yeah!
I have found I can eat the blandest of breakfast food with a glass of orange juice. I completely switched to healthy cereal (Go Lean by Kashi) and homemade oatmeal. I actually find them flavorful now at the end of the month. At the beginning, not so much.
I have reconnected with salads. Salad bags used to go bad before I even opened them. (Good intentions.) Now, I find I enjoy a salad every day or every other. I played around with making my own salad dressing but finally settled with Newmans Light honey mustard. Yum! I top my salads with a variety of things including, red peppers, carrots, almonds and rice noodles.
I get plenty of protein.
I get plenty of fiber.
Yogurt is a good safe snack. I stock my fridge with lots of different flavors. We try to have one a day. It has become the kids favorite snack.
I LOVE orange chicken. The sauce I make from scratch and it still has a lot of sodium. BUT my recipe is 2/3 less calories than my favorite at Applebees.
I have greatly improved by water intake but I still have some low intake days.
It also tells you about my fitness. What exercise I did for the day and how many calories I burned. Sometimes I remember to include the mileage. As for accurate swim, bike and run mileage check out the side bar.

• Swim- 3.13 miles
• Bike- 43.75 miles
• Run- 14.75 miles

Yesterday I swam half a mile. I believe this is my furthest distance during a workout to date. It felt really great. I see a much improved swim year for me this year. I also think I need to up my bike miles. I got the application in the mail for the family bike tour I want to do this summer. The first day is over 50 miles. So one day of biking is greater than my whole months total. I have to start somewhere.

There you have it some secrets from my food diary. There are many more I am sure but you will have to go discover them for yourself.