Charlotte gets giant cuddles from Dylan and Edith.
Piggy-tails!
Cheese!
Bed bouncing.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
One of those days...
I love my job. No, really. I do. But every once in a while I just get fed up with being a full time stay-at-home mom. Today was definitely one of those days. But more so. Today I was just fed up of having kids at all.
The last 24 hours have brought urine and squash on my carpet, crayon on my walls, the iPod speaker getting dropped (and possibly broken), toys left on the floor and stepped on (I hate Lego) and a creeping and pervasive mess in my house.
I just feel as though the kids are gradually turning everything we own into absolute crap!
I remember one day not long after my grandpa died when I broke a bowl. It was an accident. I opened the cupboard and it fell onto the ceramic tile floor in my parents' kitchen. My mom screamed at me, and then she started sobbing. Her parents had bought her those dishes when she got married, and she was devastated when that bowl broke. I thought she was being ridiculous at the time.
I so get that now.
Nobody tells you when you start this whole parenting thing that all your stuff will be systematically destroyed. You know, it would probably be really good birth control if they did.
I love my little mess makers, but jeez louise, enough already.
Tomorrow should be a better day.
The last 24 hours have brought urine and squash on my carpet, crayon on my walls, the iPod speaker getting dropped (and possibly broken), toys left on the floor and stepped on (I hate Lego) and a creeping and pervasive mess in my house.
I just feel as though the kids are gradually turning everything we own into absolute crap!
I remember one day not long after my grandpa died when I broke a bowl. It was an accident. I opened the cupboard and it fell onto the ceramic tile floor in my parents' kitchen. My mom screamed at me, and then she started sobbing. Her parents had bought her those dishes when she got married, and she was devastated when that bowl broke. I thought she was being ridiculous at the time.
I so get that now.
Nobody tells you when you start this whole parenting thing that all your stuff will be systematically destroyed. You know, it would probably be really good birth control if they did.
I love my little mess makers, but jeez louise, enough already.
Tomorrow should be a better day.
Monday, May 16, 2011
A sound financial decision...
Things that are wrong with our car and cost of fixing them:
2 new tires: £100
Front end suspension: £250 (inc. parts and labor)
Blowing exhaust: £100 (estimated)
Wing mirror: £25
Brakes: £125 (estimated)
Climate control fan switch: £50 (estimated)
Road Tax: £105
MOT test: £35
Ignition repairing: Not a clue! Just started having problems last week.
Grand total: £790 (plus the cost of fixing the ignition, whatever that would be)
Total cost of new car which we just bought: £800
This includes the tax until September. The MOT is good until February 2012. The new car is 4 years newer than the one we currently drive, will cost about £40 less per year to insure, is in a lower tax bracket, and gets better mpg. than the Nissan we are currently driving. The bodywork has a few bumps and scratches, but it is in much better shape than the old one.
Plus, it is a Seat Leon. I have wanted one of these cars for about 4 years now.
We'll be picking it up from Heanor first thing Wednesday morning, and leaving the Nissan with a scrap dealer in Nottingham. I can hardly wait to start driving this new car.
Of course, the most sound financial decision of all would be to do without a car entirely, which is very feasible for us. Martin walks to work, we live super close to a Tesco, Dylan's school takes less than 5 minutes to walk to. But we have that 35 mile round trip journey to church every Sunday. The church isn't on a direct bus route so we would have to change buses twice, and leave home 2 hours early and church 30 minutes early every week. AND would cost us about £15 a week to do it.
The best decision for our finances isn't necessarily the best decision for our family.
And, well, it's a really pretty car.
2 new tires: £100
Front end suspension: £250 (inc. parts and labor)
Blowing exhaust: £100 (estimated)
Wing mirror: £25
Brakes: £125 (estimated)
Climate control fan switch: £50 (estimated)
Road Tax: £105
MOT test: £35
Ignition repairing: Not a clue! Just started having problems last week.
Grand total: £790 (plus the cost of fixing the ignition, whatever that would be)
Total cost of new car which we just bought: £800
This includes the tax until September. The MOT is good until February 2012. The new car is 4 years newer than the one we currently drive, will cost about £40 less per year to insure, is in a lower tax bracket, and gets better mpg. than the Nissan we are currently driving. The bodywork has a few bumps and scratches, but it is in much better shape than the old one.
Plus, it is a Seat Leon. I have wanted one of these cars for about 4 years now.
We'll be picking it up from Heanor first thing Wednesday morning, and leaving the Nissan with a scrap dealer in Nottingham. I can hardly wait to start driving this new car.
Of course, the most sound financial decision of all would be to do without a car entirely, which is very feasible for us. Martin walks to work, we live super close to a Tesco, Dylan's school takes less than 5 minutes to walk to. But we have that 35 mile round trip journey to church every Sunday. The church isn't on a direct bus route so we would have to change buses twice, and leave home 2 hours early and church 30 minutes early every week. AND would cost us about £15 a week to do it.
The best decision for our finances isn't necessarily the best decision for our family.
And, well, it's a really pretty car.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Ewww...
I know my kids are entirely too old for me to blog about their poop, but here goes anyway.
Edith wouldn't come in the house this evening for bedtime cartoons. That's very unusual! She just stood out in the middle of the garden and cried.
When I went to collect her, I discovered a big old mess. She had to be sprayed down in the bathtub.
I guess I will stop blogging about my kids' bowel movements when they are no longer the most interesting part of my day. But scraping human waste out of Edith's boots sure seems newsworthy to me.
Motherhood is such a treat sometimes.
Edith wouldn't come in the house this evening for bedtime cartoons. That's very unusual! She just stood out in the middle of the garden and cried.
When I went to collect her, I discovered a big old mess. She had to be sprayed down in the bathtub.
I guess I will stop blogging about my kids' bowel movements when they are no longer the most interesting part of my day. But scraping human waste out of Edith's boots sure seems newsworthy to me.
Motherhood is such a treat sometimes.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
ARGH!!!
Dylan has an annoying new habit. It's even worse than the incessant "Why?"
He asks a question (or makes an observation).
We answer the question (or acknowledge the observation, because he's Dylan and he won't shut up until you acknowledge his comments).
Then, 10 seconds later, HE ASKS THE QUESTION AGAIN!
Seriously, the kid is making me crazy.
Oh, and for some reason Edith has started freaking out if she doesn't have her feet covered.
My little neurotics.
They say the apple never falls far from the tree, right? So who's the nut job--me or Martin?
Ooooh, don't answer that, ok?
He asks a question (or makes an observation).
We answer the question (or acknowledge the observation, because he's Dylan and he won't shut up until you acknowledge his comments).
Then, 10 seconds later, HE ASKS THE QUESTION AGAIN!
Seriously, the kid is making me crazy.
Oh, and for some reason Edith has started freaking out if she doesn't have her feet covered.
My little neurotics.
They say the apple never falls far from the tree, right? So who's the nut job--me or Martin?
Ooooh, don't answer that, ok?
Saturday, May 07, 2011
Girl time...
Dylan is sleeping over at the Mundays' house tonight. Emma kindly invited him over, and I couldn't say no. So Edith and I had the house to ourselves for dinner, bath, and bed time.
At first, it was a bit strange. She cried when Dylan left, but perked right up when I let her sit on the kitchen counter while I cooked dinner. She loves to do that--mostly because I give her pieces of vegetable and chunks of cheese, etc. while I am cooking. So we cooked dinner together, did a little bit of shopping while it was in the oven (cottage pie, and one of my best ones yet), then came home and ate. She watched "In The Night Garden" instead of "Octonauts" for her bedtime cartoon, and got to sit on my lap the entire time. Then she had the bath to herself and got lotion rubbed on her cute little body before we got jammies on. We read the story that she chose ("Good Baby / Bad Baby) whilst lying side by side on Dylan's bed. She got to hold my hand while we said bedtime prayers.
Edith was in heaven.
I liked it, too.
Sometimes I miss the attention I was able to pay to Dylan when he was an only child, and I feel guilty that I can't lavish that kind of attention on Edith. She never has me to herself. So the rare occasions when I do have her on her own (she usually sleeps the entire time Dylan is at school) are such a treat.
The thing that amazed me the most was how much more she talked tonight. Seriously, she was a little chatterbox. I guess she just can't get a word in edgewise when her big brother is around.
Edith has always called me either "mama" or "mom." She learned it from Dylan, who always calls me "mom." But just this week she has started calling me "mommy." It just makes me want to pick her up and cuddle her every time.
Having just said all of this, I DO prefer having them both around. When they aren't fighting, they play together so beautifully. Every once in a while, Dylan asks Edith if she will be his best friend. And she always replies, "Yes, Did-dun."
Girls' nights are fun, but I prefer it when our little family is complete.
At first, it was a bit strange. She cried when Dylan left, but perked right up when I let her sit on the kitchen counter while I cooked dinner. She loves to do that--mostly because I give her pieces of vegetable and chunks of cheese, etc. while I am cooking. So we cooked dinner together, did a little bit of shopping while it was in the oven (cottage pie, and one of my best ones yet), then came home and ate. She watched "In The Night Garden" instead of "Octonauts" for her bedtime cartoon, and got to sit on my lap the entire time. Then she had the bath to herself and got lotion rubbed on her cute little body before we got jammies on. We read the story that she chose ("Good Baby / Bad Baby) whilst lying side by side on Dylan's bed. She got to hold my hand while we said bedtime prayers.
Edith was in heaven.
I liked it, too.
Sometimes I miss the attention I was able to pay to Dylan when he was an only child, and I feel guilty that I can't lavish that kind of attention on Edith. She never has me to herself. So the rare occasions when I do have her on her own (she usually sleeps the entire time Dylan is at school) are such a treat.
The thing that amazed me the most was how much more she talked tonight. Seriously, she was a little chatterbox. I guess she just can't get a word in edgewise when her big brother is around.
Edith has always called me either "mama" or "mom." She learned it from Dylan, who always calls me "mom." But just this week she has started calling me "mommy." It just makes me want to pick her up and cuddle her every time.
Having just said all of this, I DO prefer having them both around. When they aren't fighting, they play together so beautifully. Every once in a while, Dylan asks Edith if she will be his best friend. And she always replies, "Yes, Did-dun."
Girls' nights are fun, but I prefer it when our little family is complete.
Friday, May 06, 2011
Awww...
Today my son stripped down to his birthday suit and ran through the sprinklers.
I looked at his little pile of clothes on the kitchen floor.
I watched him tentatively sticking his hands and feet in the water.
I listened to him shrieking with pleasure.
I melted a little bit.
Sometimes my kids make me all gooey inside.
I looked at his little pile of clothes on the kitchen floor.
I watched him tentatively sticking his hands and feet in the water.
I listened to him shrieking with pleasure.
I melted a little bit.
Sometimes my kids make me all gooey inside.
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
A revelation...
Sometimes my bathroom really reeks.
The smell seems to be coming from the toilet, so I often bleach it and scrub it to get rid of the smell. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.
Last night, as I was getting the kids into the bath, I looked down into the (empty) laundry hamper. It was wet. I wondered aloud, how on earth did the hamper get wet? And Dylan told me...
"Sorry mom, I accidentaly peed in there."
So the times when the bleach worked probably coincided with laundry day.
Sometimes it is awesome having a not-quite-four-year-old boy living in the house.
Hey, at least now I know.
Right?
The smell seems to be coming from the toilet, so I often bleach it and scrub it to get rid of the smell. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.
Last night, as I was getting the kids into the bath, I looked down into the (empty) laundry hamper. It was wet. I wondered aloud, how on earth did the hamper get wet? And Dylan told me...
"Sorry mom, I accidentaly peed in there."
So the times when the bleach worked probably coincided with laundry day.
Sometimes it is awesome having a not-quite-four-year-old boy living in the house.
Hey, at least now I know.
Right?
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Empty nest...
I have to be honest, I was a bit worried about having him here. Dad and I haven't had much to say to each other since my rather difficult teen-age years. But we never ran out of things to say, and I enjoyed every minute of his visit. Matter of fact, I would have been happy to have him stay a bit longer.
The kids have also enjoyed getting to know their grandpa face-to-face. They were very affectionate with him, which made him very happy. And he told me they are sweet kids and I am doing a good job with them, which is all I ever want to hear from my family members.
Now Dylan is back at school and Edith is napping. Martin is at work. My front room is tidy for the first time in about 2 weeks. I've caught up on all my recorded telly for the last week. Just another hour or so worth of back-ironing to complete. Life is back to normal and under control. It's nice, but kind of sad at the same time. An upheaval is wonderful when it comes in the form of a mini-vacation and a visit from family.
We will miss you, dad. Bon voyage!
Holiday: Part 3 (or boredom, anxiety, panic and relief)...
We got an early start on Thursday because we had to clean the holiday cottage before we left. Christine and I cleaned up while Martin loaded the car. Then it was a greasy full English fry-up at the truck stop and the open road.
We took the scenic way home, which was absolutely beautiful. Unfortunately, it was a bit TOO scenic. I had my Britishness test scheduled in Sheffield at 1:30pm, and was supposed to meet Noelle (she was taking it as well) at Meadowhall at 12:30pm. I did a bit of studying on the way there, but started to get more anxious as it got later and later. At 12:25pm I sent her a text to let her know that I was running late. I asked her for the postcode of the testing centre as we had Laurie and Christine's sat-nav for the trip, I programmed it in, and we weren't going to arrive there until 1:47pm.
This is when panic ensued.
Martin drove like the wind. Seriously, he was SPEEDY! Then the battery in the sat-nav (btw, that's GPS for all you Yanks out there) started to die and we were in the middle of Sheffield with no idea where we were going. Every time we had to stop at a red light, I had a mini panic attack! Noelle was texting me updates, including what the building looked like, where to go once inside the building, how many people were ahead of her in line to pay and register, etc. Those texts were a God-send!
I finally bolted up the stairs to the testing centre at 1:37pm, just as Noelle (the last in line) stood up to take her seat. I got registered, and even had the chance to use the toilets (been holding it for the last 45 minutes, no time to stop!) before the test began.
All that stress, and it only took me 6 minutes to complete the 25 questions on the test. I was the second one done--Noelle beat me by about a minute. We waited for our results, and both of us had passed. Good news--I didn't waste all that time and the £35!
I had been so worried that we weren't going to make it to the testing centre that I didn't even feel nervous about the test itself.
Some of the questions that I remember from the test were:
What percentage of the UK's population live in England?
What are the two main purposes of the United Nations?
What percentage of children in the UK attend a private school?
By what percentage has the population in the UK grown since 1971?
Does the UK have an international football team?
Just to name a few, of course. They didn't tell you how many questions you had missed afterwards--you either passed or failed. I think I might have missed as many as 4, but think I only missed probably 2. It was easy-peasy lemon squeezy!
Met up with the family at a pub where they were just getting finished with lunch, drove back to Lincolnshire, dropped Christine off at her house, came home, fixed dinner, got the kids in bed, then collapsed.
Holidays are hard work!
We took the scenic way home, which was absolutely beautiful. Unfortunately, it was a bit TOO scenic. I had my Britishness test scheduled in Sheffield at 1:30pm, and was supposed to meet Noelle (she was taking it as well) at Meadowhall at 12:30pm. I did a bit of studying on the way there, but started to get more anxious as it got later and later. At 12:25pm I sent her a text to let her know that I was running late. I asked her for the postcode of the testing centre as we had Laurie and Christine's sat-nav for the trip, I programmed it in, and we weren't going to arrive there until 1:47pm.
This is when panic ensued.
Martin drove like the wind. Seriously, he was SPEEDY! Then the battery in the sat-nav (btw, that's GPS for all you Yanks out there) started to die and we were in the middle of Sheffield with no idea where we were going. Every time we had to stop at a red light, I had a mini panic attack! Noelle was texting me updates, including what the building looked like, where to go once inside the building, how many people were ahead of her in line to pay and register, etc. Those texts were a God-send!
I finally bolted up the stairs to the testing centre at 1:37pm, just as Noelle (the last in line) stood up to take her seat. I got registered, and even had the chance to use the toilets (been holding it for the last 45 minutes, no time to stop!) before the test began.
All that stress, and it only took me 6 minutes to complete the 25 questions on the test. I was the second one done--Noelle beat me by about a minute. We waited for our results, and both of us had passed. Good news--I didn't waste all that time and the £35!
I had been so worried that we weren't going to make it to the testing centre that I didn't even feel nervous about the test itself.
Some of the questions that I remember from the test were:
What percentage of the UK's population live in England?
What are the two main purposes of the United Nations?
What percentage of children in the UK attend a private school?
By what percentage has the population in the UK grown since 1971?
Does the UK have an international football team?
Just to name a few, of course. They didn't tell you how many questions you had missed afterwards--you either passed or failed. I think I might have missed as many as 4, but think I only missed probably 2. It was easy-peasy lemon squeezy!
Met up with the family at a pub where they were just getting finished with lunch, drove back to Lincolnshire, dropped Christine off at her house, came home, fixed dinner, got the kids in bed, then collapsed.
Holidays are hard work!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Holiday, part 2 (or, This was such a perfect day)...
The kids let us sleep until nearly 7am, which always feels like a special treat. We went downstairs, made Christine a cup of coffee and brought it to her in bed so she could function for the day. Ate a quick breakfast of cold cereal, got ready, and left the cottage at 8:45am.
We went on a fun drive to a tiny hamlet in the middle of nowhere and went on a hike to Christine's favorite place in the lake district--a small waterfall that flows into Haweswater. It was approximately 5 miles round trip, and Dylan walked the whole way. Edith walked the whole way there and part of the way back. The kids were absolutely amazing. Seriously, they blew me away! The waterfall was beautiful, and we enjoyed a small snack when we got there. But the highlight of the hike were the small puddles on the trail that were full of tadpoles. The kids were totally entranced. I thought they were pretty cool, too.
We had a delightful picnic on the village green when we got back to the car, then we drove to the chocolate factory in Orton and all had icecream--Nanna's treat.
Afterwards, we went for a lovely drive around Lake Windermere. Up to Ambleside and then over the hills through the middle of nowhere on a road that hardly deserved to be called such. We got stuck behind the WORST DRIVER IN BRITAIN. I am not exaggerating. That woman should have her license revoked simply because she does not have enough common sense to be allowed on the road. We made a big loop and ended up back at Ambleside, stopping beside a small stream to have a quick paddle in the water and cool our feet off/let the car have a little break. Then it was back to the cottage, corned beef hash (home-made, of course) for dinner, a trip to the local playground for the children, and bed again.
Martin and Christine helped me to study for my Britishness test and we all had hot chocolates and snacks.
It was even a good night's sleep!
We went on a fun drive to a tiny hamlet in the middle of nowhere and went on a hike to Christine's favorite place in the lake district--a small waterfall that flows into Haweswater. It was approximately 5 miles round trip, and Dylan walked the whole way. Edith walked the whole way there and part of the way back. The kids were absolutely amazing. Seriously, they blew me away! The waterfall was beautiful, and we enjoyed a small snack when we got there. But the highlight of the hike were the small puddles on the trail that were full of tadpoles. The kids were totally entranced. I thought they were pretty cool, too.
We had a delightful picnic on the village green when we got back to the car, then we drove to the chocolate factory in Orton and all had icecream--Nanna's treat.
Afterwards, we went for a lovely drive around Lake Windermere. Up to Ambleside and then over the hills through the middle of nowhere on a road that hardly deserved to be called such. We got stuck behind the WORST DRIVER IN BRITAIN. I am not exaggerating. That woman should have her license revoked simply because she does not have enough common sense to be allowed on the road. We made a big loop and ended up back at Ambleside, stopping beside a small stream to have a quick paddle in the water and cool our feet off/let the car have a little break. Then it was back to the cottage, corned beef hash (home-made, of course) for dinner, a trip to the local playground for the children, and bed again.
Martin and Christine helped me to study for my Britishness test and we all had hot chocolates and snacks.
It was even a good night's sleep!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Holiday: Part 1 (or, It's probably only funny if you're Mormon)...
We were supposed to leave bright and early on Tuesday morning for our mini-break to the Lake District. Bright and early turned into 9:45 am as we packed up everything we'd need and then the kids and I sat in the car for about 15 minutes while Martin searched the house for his temple recommend. It was removed from his wallet by the kids. Don't be sympathetic--he shouldn't leave his wallet down where the kids can reach it!
He never did find the thing. It is "somewhere in the house," which currently doesn't bode well...
We drove to Ulceby to pick up my mother-in-law. Martin left her toiletries bag sitting on top of the car, and we added about 45 minutes onto our journey by turning around and trying to find it.
Are you getting the picture that Martin was batting a thousand on Tuesday?
Surprisingly, this did not irritate me in the slightest. I really mean that, too. I am totally shocked that I wasn't mad at him. I wasn't even mildly annoyed. Just amused.
The drive from Ulceby to the Preston Temple in Chorley was pretty uneventful, except Martin missed the junction for the motorway that takes you to Preston, so we had to switch on the sat nav (thanks, Christine) and find an alternate route. Found out later, incidentally, that it was set to "shortest distance," not "fastest route." That explains a lot!
We were going to try to make the 11am session. Made the 2pm session instead.
Got to the temple, Christine took the kids, and we went inside. I showed them my recommend with no drama. Martin had to jump through some hoops. They can verify the fact that he has a temple recommend electronically but then have to contact our bishop or stake president to make sure that his recommend hasn't been confiscated by them. They also have to see picture ID to make sure he is who he says he is. So there we are, sitting in the Temple, and the only ID Martin has is his personal alcohol license--a council issued document which authorizes him to sell alcohol.
I found this hilarious. Martin thought it was kind of ironic. Not really sure how the temple worker felt about the whole situation.
Anyway, we had a wonderful time at the temple. And I have resolved to never let that much time lapse without a visit. It had been nearly 3 years. We've had recommends the whole time, but haven't made it there since Edith was born. That is way too long!
Got out of the temple, and Christine was a bit frazzled. We got in the car to finish our journey to the holiday cottage in Tebay (pronounced tee-bay) and had snacks and drinks. Everyone calmed down and we enjoyed the stunning scenery.
The holiday cottage was small, but nice. I cooked some pasta for dinner, we went for a little walk around the village, then we got the kids bathed and put in bed. They settled in immediately and didn't make a peep about sleeping in a strange place, probably helped by the fact that they had their duvets from home on their beds.
Martin and I went to pick up a few essentials from the shop, and returned 3 hours later. We got lost in Kendal and then got lost coming out again, too. Martin was pretty stressed out about it.
So yeah, that was the first day of our mini-holiday adventure. Eventful, slightly stressful, but still nice.
He never did find the thing. It is "somewhere in the house," which currently doesn't bode well...
We drove to Ulceby to pick up my mother-in-law. Martin left her toiletries bag sitting on top of the car, and we added about 45 minutes onto our journey by turning around and trying to find it.
Are you getting the picture that Martin was batting a thousand on Tuesday?
Surprisingly, this did not irritate me in the slightest. I really mean that, too. I am totally shocked that I wasn't mad at him. I wasn't even mildly annoyed. Just amused.
The drive from Ulceby to the Preston Temple in Chorley was pretty uneventful, except Martin missed the junction for the motorway that takes you to Preston, so we had to switch on the sat nav (thanks, Christine) and find an alternate route. Found out later, incidentally, that it was set to "shortest distance," not "fastest route." That explains a lot!
We were going to try to make the 11am session. Made the 2pm session instead.
Got to the temple, Christine took the kids, and we went inside. I showed them my recommend with no drama. Martin had to jump through some hoops. They can verify the fact that he has a temple recommend electronically but then have to contact our bishop or stake president to make sure that his recommend hasn't been confiscated by them. They also have to see picture ID to make sure he is who he says he is. So there we are, sitting in the Temple, and the only ID Martin has is his personal alcohol license--a council issued document which authorizes him to sell alcohol.
I found this hilarious. Martin thought it was kind of ironic. Not really sure how the temple worker felt about the whole situation.
Anyway, we had a wonderful time at the temple. And I have resolved to never let that much time lapse without a visit. It had been nearly 3 years. We've had recommends the whole time, but haven't made it there since Edith was born. That is way too long!
Got out of the temple, and Christine was a bit frazzled. We got in the car to finish our journey to the holiday cottage in Tebay (pronounced tee-bay) and had snacks and drinks. Everyone calmed down and we enjoyed the stunning scenery.
The holiday cottage was small, but nice. I cooked some pasta for dinner, we went for a little walk around the village, then we got the kids bathed and put in bed. They settled in immediately and didn't make a peep about sleeping in a strange place, probably helped by the fact that they had their duvets from home on their beds.
Martin and I went to pick up a few essentials from the shop, and returned 3 hours later. We got lost in Kendal and then got lost coming out again, too. Martin was pretty stressed out about it.
So yeah, that was the first day of our mini-holiday adventure. Eventful, slightly stressful, but still nice.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Fail...
I tried to take the kids to the beach yesterday.
Dylan had a good time. Edith was miserable and she kind of ruined it for the rest of us. I spent the whole time carrying her around, and threw my back out as a result (she is small for her age, but she's still two years old and quite heavy)! Today has been painful.
What a waste of petrol and parking money.
Especially because when we got home, both kids stripped down to their underwear, planted peas out in the back garden, and had a fantastic time.
Incidentally, why does my mother-in-law always show up when my kids are dirty and only dressed in pants and the house is a total wreck?
Martin started a week's holiday today. We don't have anything going on tomorrow, but we leave for the Lake District on Tuesday morning and I am taking my "Life in the UK" test on Thursday (on our way home). Martin and I are going out on a date on Friday night--hopefully to celebrate my pass on the test. Then he's working on Saturday. Dad will be here on Sunday. I'm also giving my first lesson in Relief Society and singing in Sacrament meeting. It's going to be a busy week.
Fingers crossed that little miss grumpy pants cheers up before we go!
Dylan had a good time. Edith was miserable and she kind of ruined it for the rest of us. I spent the whole time carrying her around, and threw my back out as a result (she is small for her age, but she's still two years old and quite heavy)! Today has been painful.
What a waste of petrol and parking money.
Especially because when we got home, both kids stripped down to their underwear, planted peas out in the back garden, and had a fantastic time.
Incidentally, why does my mother-in-law always show up when my kids are dirty and only dressed in pants and the house is a total wreck?
Martin started a week's holiday today. We don't have anything going on tomorrow, but we leave for the Lake District on Tuesday morning and I am taking my "Life in the UK" test on Thursday (on our way home). Martin and I are going out on a date on Friday night--hopefully to celebrate my pass on the test. Then he's working on Saturday. Dad will be here on Sunday. I'm also giving my first lesson in Relief Society and singing in Sacrament meeting. It's going to be a busy week.
Fingers crossed that little miss grumpy pants cheers up before we go!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Family photos
A few weeks ago we had some photos taken, and I am just now getting around to posting a few--what a slacker! I'm really pleased with the way they turned out. We got some particularly lovely pictures of the kids and the weather was absolutely gorgeous. Here are a few of my favorites:
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Saturday, April 09, 2011
Friday, April 08, 2011
Wow. Just, wow!
Edith woke up on Monday morning and decided to speak.
After months of just jibberish she has finally started parroting and picking up new words at about the rate of approximately 4 per day. She has started pointing to things and telling me what they are. This evening, when I tucked the kids in to bed, she made up a little song and sang it to herself. Sure, it went "bum, bits, bum, bits." It was still freaking awesome.
Oh, I love this girl!
Dylan had a bit of a rough day. Martin took the kids to the park while I worked out at the gym, and when I got down there Dylan was trying to play with another kid there. The kid wouldn't play with him, and Dylan was absolutely crushed. He was even crying a little bit, and he has been not quite right all day long. I tried to give him extra cuddles and make sure he knew how loved he is all day, and reminded him that he has loads of friends at school who DO like to play with him, but I don't think it was quite enough. He's really quite a sensitive little lad.
I adore my little man, too.
Feeling all loved up about my kids tonight. Every once in a while, being a full time stay-at-home mom is the best job in the whole world.
After months of just jibberish she has finally started parroting and picking up new words at about the rate of approximately 4 per day. She has started pointing to things and telling me what they are. This evening, when I tucked the kids in to bed, she made up a little song and sang it to herself. Sure, it went "bum, bits, bum, bits." It was still freaking awesome.
Oh, I love this girl!
Dylan had a bit of a rough day. Martin took the kids to the park while I worked out at the gym, and when I got down there Dylan was trying to play with another kid there. The kid wouldn't play with him, and Dylan was absolutely crushed. He was even crying a little bit, and he has been not quite right all day long. I tried to give him extra cuddles and make sure he knew how loved he is all day, and reminded him that he has loads of friends at school who DO like to play with him, but I don't think it was quite enough. He's really quite a sensitive little lad.
I adore my little man, too.
Feeling all loved up about my kids tonight. Every once in a while, being a full time stay-at-home mom is the best job in the whole world.
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Some sauce would make this crow taste a bit better...
I have been really opposed to taking the Britishness test ever since they instituted it in 2007. When it came time for my visa renewal I was so opposed to it (and so convinced that we'd be moving back to the U.S. in another 2 years' time) that I didn't apply for permanent leave to remain since the test was required. I've always thought that it was a time-wasting and sneaky way of a) making sure everyone can speak English in a way that doesn't appear racist and b) getting more money out of already broke immigrants.
I was wrong.
I am in the process of studying for the stupid test since it seems unavoidable now, and although I still feel it's inappropriate for me to be taking it, I can understand why it's mandatory.
The test seems to be aimed at asylum seekers and other vulnerable people. The study materials highlight all of the rights and privileges granted to people living in a democracy. They reassure people that the law is there to help them and protect them, not exploit them. The study materials highlight the fact that women are treated as equals in the UK. They teach people where they can go for help if they need it. Oh, and they throw in a whole bunch of really boring stuff about the history, government, and demographics of the country.
And as far as the English thing is concerned, well, a lot of people have come here from countries where they were marginalized. If they don't learn to speak English and integrate, even if it's just a little bit, they will be marginalized here as well.
So here I sit, most of the way through the study guide for the Britishness test, totally humbled. I was being far too cynical. They really are just trying to help.
It's not very often you can say that sincerely about ANY government.
It probably won't happen again.
I was wrong.
I am in the process of studying for the stupid test since it seems unavoidable now, and although I still feel it's inappropriate for me to be taking it, I can understand why it's mandatory.
The test seems to be aimed at asylum seekers and other vulnerable people. The study materials highlight all of the rights and privileges granted to people living in a democracy. They reassure people that the law is there to help them and protect them, not exploit them. The study materials highlight the fact that women are treated as equals in the UK. They teach people where they can go for help if they need it. Oh, and they throw in a whole bunch of really boring stuff about the history, government, and demographics of the country.
And as far as the English thing is concerned, well, a lot of people have come here from countries where they were marginalized. If they don't learn to speak English and integrate, even if it's just a little bit, they will be marginalized here as well.
So here I sit, most of the way through the study guide for the Britishness test, totally humbled. I was being far too cynical. They really are just trying to help.
It's not very often you can say that sincerely about ANY government.
It probably won't happen again.
Saturday, April 02, 2011
Nobody makes you crazier than family...
...and since my siblings and parents are an ocean and a continent (plus a small island) away, it can only be my in-laws.
My sister-in-law has not spoken to my father-in-law since August of last year. Though spilling the beans on the reason for the family feud would, no doubt, boost readership of my blog, it's not my gossip to share. Suffice it to say that he is mostly wrong but partly right and too stubborn to bend. She is mostly right but also slightly wrong, and it is really none of her business. And she inherited the stubborn gene from her father so also will not bend. It's a messy situation that makes it hard for the rest of the family to function normally.
I had a little conversation with her about how disgusted she is with her mother right now. She's very angry because "Mum is putting her husband before her own children, and that's just not right."
I feel like I should mention at this point that my sister-in-law is 28 years old.
I love my children to pieces. I really do. I would do anything for them, because they are my babies--my own flesh and blood. And right now they are my number one priority because their father can, for the most part, take care of himself. They cannot, because they are young and dependent. But part of the reason I love my children so much is because I had them with the man I love more than anyone else in the whole world. I'm not wishing their childhood away, but I am sincerely looking forward to the time when my relationship with my husband can take top priority again.
When Dylan and Edith are grown up, will I put my husband before them?
Um, is the Pope Catholic?
I'm pretty sure I'm not the only mother out there who feels this way. Can I get an "Amen"?
I know that my mother loves me (and all my sisters and my brother as well). I know she would do anything for me. But I also know that I would never ask her to choose between me and her husband. What a completely selfish thing to do!
Maybe my delightful sister-in-law's feelings will change once she has children of her own. I really hope they do, because although you are always a mother, sooner or later you have to stop being "mommy" to your grown-up children.
All this from the girl who roundly criticized me for breastfeeding my daughter until she was nearly two. Pardon my imagery, but you've gotta stop suckling at that (metaphorical) teat eventually. Personally, I think you ought to do it BEFORE you reach thirty.
Phew, I feel so much better now.
How funny that I felt the need to post this right before Mothering Sunday.
Hmmm...
My sister-in-law has not spoken to my father-in-law since August of last year. Though spilling the beans on the reason for the family feud would, no doubt, boost readership of my blog, it's not my gossip to share. Suffice it to say that he is mostly wrong but partly right and too stubborn to bend. She is mostly right but also slightly wrong, and it is really none of her business. And she inherited the stubborn gene from her father so also will not bend. It's a messy situation that makes it hard for the rest of the family to function normally.
I had a little conversation with her about how disgusted she is with her mother right now. She's very angry because "Mum is putting her husband before her own children, and that's just not right."
I feel like I should mention at this point that my sister-in-law is 28 years old.
I love my children to pieces. I really do. I would do anything for them, because they are my babies--my own flesh and blood. And right now they are my number one priority because their father can, for the most part, take care of himself. They cannot, because they are young and dependent. But part of the reason I love my children so much is because I had them with the man I love more than anyone else in the whole world. I'm not wishing their childhood away, but I am sincerely looking forward to the time when my relationship with my husband can take top priority again.
When Dylan and Edith are grown up, will I put my husband before them?
Um, is the Pope Catholic?
I'm pretty sure I'm not the only mother out there who feels this way. Can I get an "Amen"?
I know that my mother loves me (and all my sisters and my brother as well). I know she would do anything for me. But I also know that I would never ask her to choose between me and her husband. What a completely selfish thing to do!
Maybe my delightful sister-in-law's feelings will change once she has children of her own. I really hope they do, because although you are always a mother, sooner or later you have to stop being "mommy" to your grown-up children.
All this from the girl who roundly criticized me for breastfeeding my daughter until she was nearly two. Pardon my imagery, but you've gotta stop suckling at that (metaphorical) teat eventually. Personally, I think you ought to do it BEFORE you reach thirty.
Phew, I feel so much better now.
How funny that I felt the need to post this right before Mothering Sunday.
Hmmm...
Friday, April 01, 2011
Two whole years...
Edith celebrated her second birthday today.
I can hardly believe that my baby is two. She's not even a baby any more--she's a proper little girl. Of course, she'll still seem like a baby until she learns to speak.
I wanted to write a glowing post for her birthday about how lovely and wonderful she is. Unfortunately, she has been a bit under the weather and very hard work, so it's hard to gush right now. I've pretty much held her constantly for the past week, and it's getting a little bit old.
That said, she actually is a wonderful little girl. She is a real old-fashioned beauty, and such a sweet-natured thing. She is a joy to have around most of the time. She sort of lives in her own little world, wandering around and looking at things, singing and babbling to herself. She is incredibly affectionate. She is very good at sharing (for a two-year-old).
Edith adds so much to our family. We all absolutely adore her, and can't really remember what life was like before she came along. Much less fun, I'm sure.
We did have a very nice day, even though she is a bit fussy lately. Christine, Cathy, and Martin's Gilbert grandparents came over, and Amy joined us as well. We had sandwiches, coleslaw, Doritos, drinks, and cupcakes for dessert. She loved all of her gifts. I did have to take her to see the doctor because my sister-in-law judged me and made me feel like a bad parent for not taking her. Turns out that I was right and it's NOT a chest infection.
Our bridal wreath in the back garden bloomed yesterday.
These are the things that make me happy.
It was a much nicer day than the one that she was born. Though that one involved IV morphine.
I can hardly believe that my baby is two. She's not even a baby any more--she's a proper little girl. Of course, she'll still seem like a baby until she learns to speak.
I wanted to write a glowing post for her birthday about how lovely and wonderful she is. Unfortunately, she has been a bit under the weather and very hard work, so it's hard to gush right now. I've pretty much held her constantly for the past week, and it's getting a little bit old.
That said, she actually is a wonderful little girl. She is a real old-fashioned beauty, and such a sweet-natured thing. She is a joy to have around most of the time. She sort of lives in her own little world, wandering around and looking at things, singing and babbling to herself. She is incredibly affectionate. She is very good at sharing (for a two-year-old).
Edith adds so much to our family. We all absolutely adore her, and can't really remember what life was like before she came along. Much less fun, I'm sure.
We did have a very nice day, even though she is a bit fussy lately. Christine, Cathy, and Martin's Gilbert grandparents came over, and Amy joined us as well. We had sandwiches, coleslaw, Doritos, drinks, and cupcakes for dessert. She loved all of her gifts. I did have to take her to see the doctor because my sister-in-law judged me and made me feel like a bad parent for not taking her. Turns out that I was right and it's NOT a chest infection.
Our bridal wreath in the back garden bloomed yesterday.
These are the things that make me happy.
It was a much nicer day than the one that she was born. Though that one involved IV morphine.
Monday, March 28, 2011
It's a good excuse...
We have been experiencing major laptop drama, which started with a busted power cord (we're on cord number 5 or 6, I forget which) and ending with a dodgy laptop power cord and a supplier who's unwilling to exchange it. What a pain in the backside!
That being said, I have very little to blog about. Life is good--moving along at a rather plodding pace with a few manic days sandwiched in for good measure. Dylan is still loving school, Edith is still sweet and struggling to speak, Martin still works obscenely long hours, and I still just take care of everybody.
So what has happened in the last two weeks? Well, Dylan had tonsillitis. Now Edith has some sort of infection. I had a bad week--only went to the gym one time last week--but am back on track with the exercise. We've booked a mini-holiday for the Easter break from school (Dylan's off for nearly a month!) and will be spending two nights and three days near Windermere in the Lake District. We're also going to go to the temple. Oh, and Christine's coming with us. Should be fun.
Got the news that Dad (the Cook one, not the Bowcutt one) is going to stop by on his way home from Kiev. We're all looking forward to that. I'm going to put him to work in my garden and on a gas appliance that needs removing. And I'll have company in the evenings!
We had some family photos taken. Some of them turned out pretty nice, and I'll be posting a few when I get a chance. The kids look fab in them.
Edith has learned how to saw "very hot."
I got some more gardening done.
It's a thrilling life I lead.
I've had some strange dreams and even stranger thoughts as a result of those dreams, but I am still trying to sort those thoughts out.
That being said, I have very little to blog about. Life is good--moving along at a rather plodding pace with a few manic days sandwiched in for good measure. Dylan is still loving school, Edith is still sweet and struggling to speak, Martin still works obscenely long hours, and I still just take care of everybody.
So what has happened in the last two weeks? Well, Dylan had tonsillitis. Now Edith has some sort of infection. I had a bad week--only went to the gym one time last week--but am back on track with the exercise. We've booked a mini-holiday for the Easter break from school (Dylan's off for nearly a month!) and will be spending two nights and three days near Windermere in the Lake District. We're also going to go to the temple. Oh, and Christine's coming with us. Should be fun.
Got the news that Dad (the Cook one, not the Bowcutt one) is going to stop by on his way home from Kiev. We're all looking forward to that. I'm going to put him to work in my garden and on a gas appliance that needs removing. And I'll have company in the evenings!
We had some family photos taken. Some of them turned out pretty nice, and I'll be posting a few when I get a chance. The kids look fab in them.
Edith has learned how to saw "very hot."
I got some more gardening done.
It's a thrilling life I lead.
I've had some strange dreams and even stranger thoughts as a result of those dreams, but I am still trying to sort those thoughts out.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
You're wrong...
Ok, so I know that some of you moms out there think you have the cutest children in the world. Well, sorry to break it to you but you are wrong. MINE are the cutest. Check out a few of the pictures from our walk in Twigmoor Woods last weekend.
Dylan is just male perfection, with his sturdy little body and long, lean frame. And those eyes--he's a heartbreaker in the making.
Edith, well, she is my flawless Victorian English rose. Her tiny little body and those pixie fetures of hers! Those big grey-green eyes and her beautiful red hair. Oh my, she's going to break a few hearts of her own.
The best part is, not only are they physically beautiful, but they are lovely on the inside as well. One of my chief joys in life is watching their personalities develop. They are both so unique and wonderful in their own way, and they both add so much to our little family.
Dylan was playing with a friend for most of the day today, so it was just me and Edith. We had a great time together, but we were certainly happy to have him back. Our family just wouldn't be complete without both of them around. The two of them make me happier than anybody else in this whole world.
Dylan is just male perfection, with his sturdy little body and long, lean frame. And those eyes--he's a heartbreaker in the making.
Edith, well, she is my flawless Victorian English rose. Her tiny little body and those pixie fetures of hers! Those big grey-green eyes and her beautiful red hair. Oh my, she's going to break a few hearts of her own.
The best part is, not only are they physically beautiful, but they are lovely on the inside as well. One of my chief joys in life is watching their personalities develop. They are both so unique and wonderful in their own way, and they both add so much to our little family.
Dylan was playing with a friend for most of the day today, so it was just me and Edith. We had a great time together, but we were certainly happy to have him back. Our family just wouldn't be complete without both of them around. The two of them make me happier than anybody else in this whole world.
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
Ummm...
I SO had something to post about earlier, but it's gone now.
They say you lose brain cells with each child you have (I totally support this theory). It's a good job Martin has refused to have any more kids, or I would have no brain cells left!
Dylan is going on an outing with school on Friday. They're taking his class to St. Mary's church and they are going to "christen" a doll. It should be pretty fun for him. AND he has been invited to go to the Fun Forest with his friend Kai on Saturday. My little baby boy is growing up so fast. School trips, outings with friends, he'll be dating before I know it.
Edith is talking a little bit better every day. Last weekend she mastered "wait," and she is absolutely brilliant with "up" and "hey." We were out in the garden this morning, and what really amazed me was how perceptive she is. That girl notices seriously everything. Birds flying so high in the sky that I can hardly see them, dogs barking a few streets over, EVERYTHING!
I'll get some pictures up soon of our walk in Twigmoor Wood. We had such a good time. I decided that we would do something fun every weekend. We just have to do it without Martin. I can manage both kids on my own a lot easier now, so there is no reason not to. And if he starts to feel left out, well, maybe he'll start taking the occasional Saturday off.
I'm not holding my breath.
They say you lose brain cells with each child you have (I totally support this theory). It's a good job Martin has refused to have any more kids, or I would have no brain cells left!
Dylan is going on an outing with school on Friday. They're taking his class to St. Mary's church and they are going to "christen" a doll. It should be pretty fun for him. AND he has been invited to go to the Fun Forest with his friend Kai on Saturday. My little baby boy is growing up so fast. School trips, outings with friends, he'll be dating before I know it.
Edith is talking a little bit better every day. Last weekend she mastered "wait," and she is absolutely brilliant with "up" and "hey." We were out in the garden this morning, and what really amazed me was how perceptive she is. That girl notices seriously everything. Birds flying so high in the sky that I can hardly see them, dogs barking a few streets over, EVERYTHING!
I'll get some pictures up soon of our walk in Twigmoor Wood. We had such a good time. I decided that we would do something fun every weekend. We just have to do it without Martin. I can manage both kids on my own a lot easier now, so there is no reason not to. And if he starts to feel left out, well, maybe he'll start taking the occasional Saturday off.
I'm not holding my breath.
Thursday, March 03, 2011
A productive lunch hour...
So yesterday was a tough day, physically speaking, especially.
In the morning I did a gruelling workout. While I was at the gym, Martin took the kids on a manure hunt. We needed some "bulky organic material" for our borders in the back garden, and I had heard a rumor that a lady near Barton gave it away for free. The poop hunt was on.
Result!
So while Dylan was at school and Edith was napping, I dug some horse manure into the flower beds, fertilized them with fish, blood and bone, and re-seeded the grass.
My body really hurts right now.
But man, you should see how beautiful the soil in my borders looks. We just need one more bag of manure so I can finish the long border off. Then I can sow some peas directly into the soil. Dylan and I already planted tomatoes and pumpkins and marigolds in pots, which are sitting on the windowsill in the kitchen, just waiting for warmer weather.
I've got big plans for the garden this year. Last year was just all about getting it decent. This year is all about making it look beautiful.
I remember all the work we did at my parents' house in Nephi to get that garden beautiful and productive. My favorite tasks by far were picking up rocks (used as a punishment for "naughty" behavior) and shovelling the yearly trailer full of turkey manure onto the soil. At least dad had the tiller so we didn't have to dig all that in by hand. It's kind of a back-breaking job, and that is a big ol' garden.
It's funny, because I used to hate yard work. Now, it's a welcome break from housework. And there's something soothing about taming nature and making it work for you. I guess it appeals to the control freak in me. And there's something very satisfying about planting some seeds and watching them grow. The only thing better is planting those seeds and then later eating the fruits of the harvest.
I think I could totally dig being a farmer.
We're having a tough week with the kids. Edith is getting teeth (the last ones before her molars) and she is really ratty. She wants pretty much constant cuddles, and it's a bit tiresome. Dylan is just doing that normal toddler thing and testing all his boundaries, limits and rules this week. Plus, he is being really insolent to his dad. He doesn't speak that way to me, but Martin is a bit of a soft touch. He may or may not get his mouth washed out with soap before the week is over. I really don't like disciplining my children, but it's better to do it now and have them be decent people when they get to be teenagers, right?
Martin had to work on Sunday so he has today off instead. Hooray! I need to go wake him up. Time to get another giant bag of poop...
In the morning I did a gruelling workout. While I was at the gym, Martin took the kids on a manure hunt. We needed some "bulky organic material" for our borders in the back garden, and I had heard a rumor that a lady near Barton gave it away for free. The poop hunt was on.
Result!
So while Dylan was at school and Edith was napping, I dug some horse manure into the flower beds, fertilized them with fish, blood and bone, and re-seeded the grass.
My body really hurts right now.
But man, you should see how beautiful the soil in my borders looks. We just need one more bag of manure so I can finish the long border off. Then I can sow some peas directly into the soil. Dylan and I already planted tomatoes and pumpkins and marigolds in pots, which are sitting on the windowsill in the kitchen, just waiting for warmer weather.
I've got big plans for the garden this year. Last year was just all about getting it decent. This year is all about making it look beautiful.
I remember all the work we did at my parents' house in Nephi to get that garden beautiful and productive. My favorite tasks by far were picking up rocks (used as a punishment for "naughty" behavior) and shovelling the yearly trailer full of turkey manure onto the soil. At least dad had the tiller so we didn't have to dig all that in by hand. It's kind of a back-breaking job, and that is a big ol' garden.
It's funny, because I used to hate yard work. Now, it's a welcome break from housework. And there's something soothing about taming nature and making it work for you. I guess it appeals to the control freak in me. And there's something very satisfying about planting some seeds and watching them grow. The only thing better is planting those seeds and then later eating the fruits of the harvest.
I think I could totally dig being a farmer.
We're having a tough week with the kids. Edith is getting teeth (the last ones before her molars) and she is really ratty. She wants pretty much constant cuddles, and it's a bit tiresome. Dylan is just doing that normal toddler thing and testing all his boundaries, limits and rules this week. Plus, he is being really insolent to his dad. He doesn't speak that way to me, but Martin is a bit of a soft touch. He may or may not get his mouth washed out with soap before the week is over. I really don't like disciplining my children, but it's better to do it now and have them be decent people when they get to be teenagers, right?
Martin had to work on Sunday so he has today off instead. Hooray! I need to go wake him up. Time to get another giant bag of poop...
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Anger...
I don't lose my temper often.
No, really. I don't!
I used to be angry a lot--mostly before I had kids. My two little angels have really mellowed me out, because I was mostly angry about not being able to have children.
But boy, when I do get angry I don't do it by half.
I don't shout. I don't throw things. I don't swear at people. I don't hit my kids.
I do work very efficiently. I DO get very quiet.
I learned a long time ago that it is best for me to keep my anger inside. When I am truly angry, I don't have a reliable social filter. I say truly horrible things. Things that are horribly true. Some people say that you shouldn't bottle it all inside. But I know that my temper burns white-hot for a very short time. Grudges don't happen when I get angry. Grudges happen when I say things in anger to other people.
It's been very quiet at my house lately, and I'm totally caught up on the ironing.
But today was full of fun and laughter, and dancing with my babies. And I have a feeling that the housework is going to suffer for a little while.
No, really. I don't!
I used to be angry a lot--mostly before I had kids. My two little angels have really mellowed me out, because I was mostly angry about not being able to have children.
But boy, when I do get angry I don't do it by half.
I don't shout. I don't throw things. I don't swear at people. I don't hit my kids.
I do work very efficiently. I DO get very quiet.
I learned a long time ago that it is best for me to keep my anger inside. When I am truly angry, I don't have a reliable social filter. I say truly horrible things. Things that are horribly true. Some people say that you shouldn't bottle it all inside. But I know that my temper burns white-hot for a very short time. Grudges don't happen when I get angry. Grudges happen when I say things in anger to other people.
It's been very quiet at my house lately, and I'm totally caught up on the ironing.
But today was full of fun and laughter, and dancing with my babies. And I have a feeling that the housework is going to suffer for a little while.
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