Family Meeting

I love family meetings. It puts everybody on the same page. Helps me to map out my expectations and let's the kids have an opportunity to vent and talk. There are only two simple rules. 1. Everyone has a chance to talk. 2.No one can get in trouble for what they say, as long as they say it in a respectful way.
We talked about back-to-school shopping. I explained to them how much money was available (not much), we talked about types of shoes and clothing they would be able to get.
We talked about household issues. Chores and keeping the house clean. We also had to review the house rules, because some folks have selective memory.
It ended up being a really good, hopefully productive meeting.

Next stop....The dreaded back-to-school shopping. *screams*

I hate back to school shopping. I absolutely unequivocally hate it.
The teens do pretty good, I can tell them what their budget is and they normally stick to it. I've taught them to shop sales and clearance. They usually do a pretty good job.

The littles....wellllll.....that is a totally different story. A back-to-school shopping trip usually ends up in anger, pouting and possible tears. They like to go to EVERY store in SEVERAL malls. Because they are looking for "the perfect outfit". They have to look at every shoe in every shoe store. It has never ending up being a fun time. (at least not for me)

I've tried buying some of their clothes and shoes online. The problem with shopping online is you just can't get a good feel for the clothes and you can't tell what it looks like on you.
They've grown so much over the summer, I know they need to try on some stuff.

Sigh.....

Still Present and Accounted For

Well, we are 16 days into a new year. Everyone is just plugging along. The children dropped the new computer on the floor, luckily it didn't break.

Pickles is grounded and has been because of his terrible grades.
'Cole is in L.O.V.E with a boy. It'd be cute if it weren't so sickening.
Pinky has major pre-teen attitude.
Daisy is just Daisy.

I've recovered from Christmas and I feel pretty good about the new year. This is the year of fixing up our home. We've lived here 10 years and the house is starting to look like we've been here 10 years.

My first home-improvement project for this year will be the main bathroom. New paint, new flooring and new bath accessories.

I feel pretty positive so far this year. Everyone gets a fresh start and a chance to make things better.

Today I am Thankful for....

My four kids.

They are funny.
Sweet.
Kind.
And wonderful.

They make my heart giggle.

Even when things are tough, I know we'll be okay.

I'm glad to have them in my life.

Autumn Updates

Time is moving along rather nicely in our little house. The kids are settling into their back-to-school routines.

High school has really changed 'Cole. She's a totally different person. So outgoing and really enjoying her high school experience. She loves going to the football games and pep rallies. She even went to HOMECOMING !! In a DRESS !! Her grades are still outstanding and she seems pretty motivated and focused.

Pickles has been plowing along. He's decided he's all about fashion and spends almost all the money he gets on clothes. His grades are just ok.

The twins have been acting like a pair of donkeys. Most of their unacceptable behavior has leveled off, but now I'm left with them arguing and bickering with each other everyday. They are doing ok in school but neither one of them is working on a fifth grade level.

I have been back and forth to the dentist for an abscessed tooth. I had a root canal last week and now I finally feel better. I've been doing some stuff to the house trying to get ready for the holidays.

Today I spent the morning holding a beautiful baby boy named Jhourne. He was born just last week. He looked so calm and peaceful sleeping in my arms. Now I'm tired.

Have a great autumn.

Old People and Kids

Someone recently asked me what was harder...taking care of children or an elderly parent.

I have to say they are both difficult.

Dealing with my mother (age 69) is sort of like being in a class of preschoolers. They can't do things for themselves...but they really really want to.

Dealing with my children is like being the ringmaster at the circus. You have to keep your eye on everyone or the entire program can be a disaster.

Over the past few years I've watched my mother slowly change from the person I grew up knowing, to a person who is very much dependent on me. Her favorite thing to do is cook, but now it's hard for her. The new stove confuses her. Recipes confuse her. Her creations just don't turn out like they used to.

As frustrating as it is for me, I know it must be hell for her.
To be a prisoner of your own body and mind.

The kids love to do things for her and when they are home she doesn't have to lift a finger. They wait on her hand and foot.

And when she's not here (hospitalized) they miss her intensely.

But I miss her even when she is here...because now the roles are different. Now I'm the caregiver and she is the child.

I cherish every moment we have together, becacuse I know how fleeting time can be.


~~~
Book We're Reading At Bedtime - The Best School Year Ever By Barbara Robinson (Chapers 3-4)

Meet The Family

Daisy and Pinky, twins age 8

They came to live with me in October, 2003. They are as different as night and day. Pinky is the quieter of the two, she is a people pleaser, but she has a sneaky side. If she thinks she can get away with something she'll give it a try. Daisy gets up in the morning full of questions and goes to bed at night full of questions.

Pickles, middle child age 11

He came to live with me in October 2003. Pickles is the biological brother of Daisy and Pinky. He is a great kid. Friendly and kindhearted. I feel bad for him sometimes being the only male in a house full of females.

'Cole, the teen age 13

*insert primal scream here* She came to live with me in 1999 at age 4. Exceptionally intelligent and creative. She can be so sweet and then when she doesn't get her way, watch out , her dark side appears. She has a little problem with with prsonal responsibility. In other words...nothing is never her fault. Nothing.

Granny

My mother, age 64

Granny is my best friend. (usually) She has helped me care for my foster children and adopted children. She has supported me in whatever endeavour I have tried. Age is starting to catch up with her and she's forgetful sometimes, but having her live with me and be involved in my life helps to keep me focused.

We also have two dogs, Casey and Shadow, a cat named Oreo and a rabbit named Binky.