I'm tethered to a broken heart.
Drowning from the pain.
I cut you out, you claw to stay.
Yet I am always alone.
Ignore the fact that you value me so little.
I've never been good enough from the start.
I'm torn, I'm worn, I'm exhausted from the pain.
Cut me out, bring me down, tell me who you want to be.
Forget I tried.
Forget I've ever cared.
These games you play have worn out its welcome.
I'm over it.
Cutting the ties.
Letting you drown while I swim for life.
I'm cutting you out, cutting the lies.
I'm going to be free.
Spread my wings and take the plunge.
Falling.
Falling.
Falling.
Untethered.
Monday, December 22, 2014
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
A post on love
I've taken love for granted. Expected it to follow me no matter what.
When I said the words I do, I meant it. I will love you til the end.
The first time Kylie's eyes met mine my cup was overflowing. I can never accurately describe the love my heart holds for my girls. It is amazing that God created me to hold so much love in my life.
If God gave me one last day with my family I'd make it a good one. I'd spend all day doing all the things we love to do.
I would lock eyes with each one of them and express, to the best of my ability, just how much they each mean to me.
I would hug them and wish I never had to let go.
It all started when I saw him. That boy made my heart skip two beats. It felt magical the first time we kissed. I felt like I was floating on a cloud.
When he asked me to marry him I felt like it was a dream. He was mine and I was his. The world seemed to make sense.
I have been fighting a battle with myself for a long time. No amount of love could stop the cancerous spread.
I fought, I yelled, I cut, I screamed. The pain was always there, eating at my heart.
A month ago I let it all go. I let it float away. A weight was lifted off my burdened heart.
I won't go back.
My heart is searching for purity.
For fulfilled promises.
For love.
I will love and be loved.
Time is too short to waste on hate.
I will love, I will love, I will love.
Time is passing and I won't give up.
To be loved is priceless.
Never take it for granted.
Love.
When I said the words I do, I meant it. I will love you til the end.
The first time Kylie's eyes met mine my cup was overflowing. I can never accurately describe the love my heart holds for my girls. It is amazing that God created me to hold so much love in my life.
If God gave me one last day with my family I'd make it a good one. I'd spend all day doing all the things we love to do.
I would lock eyes with each one of them and express, to the best of my ability, just how much they each mean to me.
I would hug them and wish I never had to let go.
It all started when I saw him. That boy made my heart skip two beats. It felt magical the first time we kissed. I felt like I was floating on a cloud.
When he asked me to marry him I felt like it was a dream. He was mine and I was his. The world seemed to make sense.
I have been fighting a battle with myself for a long time. No amount of love could stop the cancerous spread.
I fought, I yelled, I cut, I screamed. The pain was always there, eating at my heart.
A month ago I let it all go. I let it float away. A weight was lifted off my burdened heart.
I won't go back.
My heart is searching for purity.
For fulfilled promises.
For love.
I will love and be loved.
Time is too short to waste on hate.
I will love, I will love, I will love.
Time is passing and I won't give up.
To be loved is priceless.
Never take it for granted.
Love.
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Thankful Post
Today I will list a few things I am thankful for, since Thanksgiving is almost upon us and I have yet to declare anything.
1. My God. It is unbelievably mind blowing that no matter what sin I commit, no matter how many times I fail, His love for me is unwavering. I can't imagine the length in which He goes for us. Giving us HIS SON to die for me, my stupid sins, and my arrogance, my pride, my lies. It is crazy that no matter what I do He will always forgive. He is always there. Forever.
2. John--no matter how many arguments we get into (and they can be whoppers) he stays honest. Even though we've been together longer than most marriages I know he still surprises me. He is the hardest working man I know. He is, hands down, the best dad to our daughters. It doesn't matter who I talk too they are always in awe of his patience, gentleness, and love for them. He has never had any problems changing a diaper, or waking up for those midnight feedings. He is my partner in every big decision we make, he is the leader of our family and that is the way it should be. Sometimes, as hard headed as I am, I challenge him, and fight him, but at the end of the day he knows what is best for us. He has such a kind heart and isn't easily discouraged. He is a fighter and God gave him to me. I am beyond thankful for him, even when I act pretty crazy.
3. Kylie Jade--my first born star and a star she is. If there is a stage you can bet she will be owning it. She is empathetic (like her daddy) my niece was crying last night because her grandpa died and Kylie Jade offered to share hers. She is head strong (like her mother) and is very sure of herself. She knows exactly what she wants and isn't afraid to go for it and fail. She is my little gymnast who loves to flip and stretch. She takes pride in herself and is willing to fight for what she wants. She has always been independent (even when she was a baby). She loves to give hugs, act silly, and make pictures and stories for others. I never knew what wearing my heart outside my body felt like until she was born. She has definitely made me realize what unconditional love is. She gave me strength when I felt down, and she has given me hope that this world can be a better place.
4. Madilyn Kate--my second little squishy. She has such a bright personality. Her smile lights up a room. She is hilarious. Her little voice is music to my ears. She is smart and funny and she is very sure of herself. She is very head strong (again from me) and goes after what she wants like there is no tomorrow. She shows much empathy and puts herself in her friends places a lot. She is a bright star in my dark sky. She brings me so much joy. She loves to cuddle, give high fives, read books and play games. Her heart is full of laughter and joy. She has been the best addition to our little family of four.
5. I am thankful for my gymnastics family. We have been apart of the gymnastics world for over four years now. I absolutely love everyone there and they love and spoil my girls. I am thankful we found a place the girls could grow up with and feel special at. They all have a special place in my heart forever.
6. I am very thankful for my house. After moving around a lot I think we have found a place we will stay for awhile. It is spacious enough for us and it already has so much love and memories here. I love it most around Christmas time when everything is decorated and lit up!
7. I am thankful for my family. We all have our differences, but we mostly all come together in the worst of times. Life would be very dull without them.
8. I am thankful for friends. When I am stressed out and having a bad day sending a text to my two best friends always makes me feel better!
9. I am thankful for air conditioning when it is crazy hot, and heat when it is crazy cold. I definitely take it for granted, but it is appreciated.
10. Books take me to another world and let's me escape my reality. I am thankful for the many worlds I have been in over the years!
11. I am thankful for all those little things like chairs, tables, light, and many other things that are taken for granted every day.
12. TV I am thankful there is an escape or "easy babysitter" on those days I am not feeling 100 percent. My girls get entertainment and I get quiet!
13. My car. It has gone through a lot, but without it I could go nowhere. I am thankful it has needed minimal help in repairs and it is running.
14. Gas prices dropped! Hallelujah that is something to always be thankful for.
15. My bed it gives me so much pleasure to get a good nights rest.
There are so many things I am thankful for that I definitely can't list them all, but here are a few because I want those special people in my life to know that they are appreciated!
Friday, November 7, 2014
Gymnastics Try Outs
My six year old is filled with confidence and bravery. As a young child she went out and showed her gymnastics talent to the best of her ability. She was filled with nerves, excitement, and little fear. Today was team try out day and I have to say Kylie Jade did wonderfully. Even though she isn't the most flexible, or landing her back hand spring as well as some of the others I was very proud of her for going out there and doing the best she could do. She landed her pull over and did a cartwheel on the beam as well as balanced completely across it with toes up. She curled her hand around the beam and held a hand stand with little support. I was very happy to see my girl doing what she loves to do. At the end of the try out I found out my six year old made the gymnastics team. She will start out at level 3. I am thrilled that my girl will be doing the thing she loves most. It is all she does at home, a lot of what she does at school and her spare time is spent in splits, hand stands, or practicing back hand springs.
I am a little nervous about this team thing, but I know this is completely Kylie Jade. Since the minute she stepped foot into Jills Gymnastics she has been at home. I am so excited to see where this next step takes her!
I am a little nervous about this team thing, but I know this is completely Kylie Jade. Since the minute she stepped foot into Jills Gymnastics she has been at home. I am so excited to see where this next step takes her!
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Love
Romeo said it best: "Is love a tender thing? It is too rough, too rude, too boisterous, and it pricks like thorn."
When I look at young love I laugh. I know I was once there, but for some reason I always felt me and John were the exception. Whenever I see teenagers gushing with love and showing off engagement rings I often wonder how long that will last. I had many teachers telling me the same thing, constantly. I have, so far, proven those people wrong. After 11 years of being together I think it is safe to say we will make it to the end. I can't imagine my life being spent with anyone else. I guess that's what these teenagers think.
Much like Romeo and Juliet I felt that fleeting love that I think every teenager has at some point in their life. That surge of hormones that is telling you to do the exact thing that you are not supposed to be doing. Edging closer to oblivion. The dare of it all, the quick game of chicken. It is absolutely thrilling to someone who enjoys rebelling all too much.
I can remember when all that was on my mind was sex. It was a fun to play this game. To see how far you could go without anyone knowing. The thrill to keep our secrets a secret. It was daring, it was rebellious, it was sneaky.
In order to pull off the crazy antics John and I did we had to be crafty. Looking back on it all, it was really daring. I guess that's what made it so exciting. I felt like I was in the play. Much like Romeo stepping into a foreign world of people who hated me for everything they thought I was. I have never been those things. I was a lost teen, who turned into an adult that acts like she's got it together... When really I am falling apart.
I felt that my love could keep us together, glue us to one another, and that everything could be perfect. All we needed was my lips to touch his. Teenagers, they are so blind, and Romeo and Juliet are proof that love doesn't take you anywhere but death.
I didn't know what I was getting myself into, didn't realize how truly hard it would be to juggle a family, a husband and finding myself... I never did find myself. I have found myself lost, searching, floating, but never having completely landed.
Through the impossible years, the fights, the threats of divorce, the simple waste of breath on words that will never be taken back. I see it myself, our young love, it always somehow pulls through. He is that boy and I am that girl. Completely wasted on each other, drunk with love. It is poison to the heart, but it feels so wonderful. If only for a minute, if only for a little bit. Then, like Romeo and Juliet, it will end. It will just be another fairy tale, another broken story, another tragedy.
When I look at young love I laugh. I know I was once there, but for some reason I always felt me and John were the exception. Whenever I see teenagers gushing with love and showing off engagement rings I often wonder how long that will last. I had many teachers telling me the same thing, constantly. I have, so far, proven those people wrong. After 11 years of being together I think it is safe to say we will make it to the end. I can't imagine my life being spent with anyone else. I guess that's what these teenagers think.
Much like Romeo and Juliet I felt that fleeting love that I think every teenager has at some point in their life. That surge of hormones that is telling you to do the exact thing that you are not supposed to be doing. Edging closer to oblivion. The dare of it all, the quick game of chicken. It is absolutely thrilling to someone who enjoys rebelling all too much.
I can remember when all that was on my mind was sex. It was a fun to play this game. To see how far you could go without anyone knowing. The thrill to keep our secrets a secret. It was daring, it was rebellious, it was sneaky.
In order to pull off the crazy antics John and I did we had to be crafty. Looking back on it all, it was really daring. I guess that's what made it so exciting. I felt like I was in the play. Much like Romeo stepping into a foreign world of people who hated me for everything they thought I was. I have never been those things. I was a lost teen, who turned into an adult that acts like she's got it together... When really I am falling apart.
I felt that my love could keep us together, glue us to one another, and that everything could be perfect. All we needed was my lips to touch his. Teenagers, they are so blind, and Romeo and Juliet are proof that love doesn't take you anywhere but death.
I didn't know what I was getting myself into, didn't realize how truly hard it would be to juggle a family, a husband and finding myself... I never did find myself. I have found myself lost, searching, floating, but never having completely landed.
Through the impossible years, the fights, the threats of divorce, the simple waste of breath on words that will never be taken back. I see it myself, our young love, it always somehow pulls through. He is that boy and I am that girl. Completely wasted on each other, drunk with love. It is poison to the heart, but it feels so wonderful. If only for a minute, if only for a little bit. Then, like Romeo and Juliet, it will end. It will just be another fairy tale, another broken story, another tragedy.
Friday, October 24, 2014
I Miss My Husband
It's the first night in a long time that I have been without my other half, my mate, my rock, my support. I came home to a house with no husband. It was strange. Like perhaps I didn't know where things belonged. I began my monotonous duties as a mother and thought, this would be so much easier if I had John here. The girls were running around wild as their usual selves, but knowing John wasn't going to be coming home tonight I felt a little drained, a little bored and a lot sad. The girls cried hunger and I was heading to fix dinner when I realized John had eaten all the eggs. Loading them up to take them to the grocery store I found myself dazed. I started driving the wrong way and ended up at Chick-fil-a, and the girls were stoked. I ordered food and felt awkward not asking John what we should bring him for dinner. He wouldn't be eating dinner with us tonight. I pushed on and continued motherly duties per the usual.
I am so used to sharing EVERYTHING about my day with him that I haven't even realized how much I talk to him until he wasn't there. They do say absence makes the heart grow fonder. It hasn't even been a full night and I am tired, bored, and missing my best friend. There are things to say and no one to share them with. There is no one sitting next to me, no one to goof off with. I realized living my life without him wouldn't be a life at all. God brought him to me because we are perfect for each other.
I didn't realize how much weight he pulled in the nightly duties, the chores and everything else. I really do take advantage of how wonderful he is. I couldn't ask for a better partner in life. I know I am blessed beyond measure with John.
The kids are stirring, they are getting antsy, they are ready for bed. I will go enjoy my time with my beautiful ladies and pray that John is save, happy, and gets some much needed rest.
Monday seems so far away.
Monday, October 13, 2014
A Few Things I've Learned From Parenting A First Grader
It's that time of year again. The time of year where I will give you a list of things your adorable, sassy, insanely loud six year old girl will demand for school.
1. Always bring sparkly pencils, they help her write better, they are pretty and they make her all around happy during the day when it gets a little gloomy.
2. Reading can be fun, but if you make her sit down and read it will take her 400 hours to complete a sentence. I am not joking.
3. When she gets home she doesn't want to do homework, talk, use the restroom, or play she wants snacks. Lots and lots of snacks.
4. Getting invited to a birthday party is like a rite of passage. Fortunately everyone has to be invited in order to pass out invites at her school, she still thinks she is special for getting invited to said party.
5. If she gets in a fight with her friend at school and gets in the car with a mad face and arms crossed. DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT ask her what's wrong because she will take all her anger out on you and even after yelling about what happened it still will "not matter because YOU couldn't understand anyway!"
6. If she gets in trouble at school the minute you pick her up she will be all sweet as pie and when you get the email she will say "oh yea that was nothing, it was an accident, I DIDN'T DO IT!"
7. Nothing will ever be her fault.
8. If you come to school to eat lunch with her she will be happy, but if you try and kiss her she will show her ever advancing ninja skills and block your kiss.
9. Awaken her at the very last possible minute, when she wakes up she will either be so happy and chipper or it will be a constant battle of wills and it will have seemed Satan has overtaken her soul.
10. If you forget her snack or water bottle, or lunch box you will never hear the end of it. "Remember that time YOU forgot...???"
11. Dressing girls will never get easier, tights, pants, shorts, skirts, jeans, this shirt paired with this shirt...ahhh too many possibilities.
12. If she learns a new song and can remember the words to it you will have to listen to it every time you get in the car. Ear plugs may come in handy.
13. Her best friend will be this person this week, but it will be someone different next week.
14. Having a boyfriend is both "gross" and "cool" aim for gross, always aim for gross.
15. If she tries to do splits, cartwheels, and handstands in class you will get an email asking that she keeps gymnastics at home.
16. If her math facts aren't speedy she will blame the problem at all cost "well that problem is just stupid."
17. Getting her to read sight words may be harder than pulling her teeth.
18. Don't leave her back pack unzipped after checking her folder, my goodness the drama.
19. Don't talk to her friends too much, they are hers and not yours for a reason.
20. At the end of the day she will always be happy to come because you are her mommy and no matter what she needs your love, that stability and routine at the end of a long day of first grade!
Big first grader
First day of first grade
open house for first grade
first grade picture
Thursday, October 9, 2014
My Normal
Fall break means I can finally breathe a sigh of relief. I have time to become best friends with my bed again, and I have all the world to look into my child's face and study every expression imaginable (and boy does she have many!)
I have used my time at home to be productive by keeping the house clean, having a lot of one on one time with my little one and getting in more quality time with Kylie when she is home. I am not rushing around filling water bottles, grabbing a snack and rushing them to the next activity. I can breathe.
I have made such a great head start on the girls Christmas Lists I have several things in layaway, got some stuff waiting in the cart on Amazon, and a lot of stuff in the bags in my closet. I have taken this fall break to start on those things that would normally be pushed aside because working, maintaining a house, paying bills, getting the kids ready for every activity imaginable, and trying to spend some one on one time with each is just filling up my days right now.
I have really been intentional to spend time with Madilyn. We have played many board games, worked in her preschool workbook, and colored countless pictures. I have listened to her talk about her best friends, her likes and dislikes and what she wants for Christmas. We have spent most of the days at home relaxing and enjoying each others company.
As much fun as we are having this week I know we will both be ready for school on Monday! It has been a fun week of just lounging and not doing much, but if you know me you know I like my normal!
Here's a few things we've been doing this week:
I have used my time at home to be productive by keeping the house clean, having a lot of one on one time with my little one and getting in more quality time with Kylie when she is home. I am not rushing around filling water bottles, grabbing a snack and rushing them to the next activity. I can breathe.
I have made such a great head start on the girls Christmas Lists I have several things in layaway, got some stuff waiting in the cart on Amazon, and a lot of stuff in the bags in my closet. I have taken this fall break to start on those things that would normally be pushed aside because working, maintaining a house, paying bills, getting the kids ready for every activity imaginable, and trying to spend some one on one time with each is just filling up my days right now.
I have really been intentional to spend time with Madilyn. We have played many board games, worked in her preschool workbook, and colored countless pictures. I have listened to her talk about her best friends, her likes and dislikes and what she wants for Christmas. We have spent most of the days at home relaxing and enjoying each others company.
As much fun as we are having this week I know we will both be ready for school on Monday! It has been a fun week of just lounging and not doing much, but if you know me you know I like my normal!
Here's a few things we've been doing this week:
My girls getting ready for church
Cootie game with this cutie
My beautiful 6 year old
Cheering at a Halloween party
Got a new Hannah Montana movie in old school 3D
This child and candyland
My girls eating at burger king on family night!
The girls got their ribbons this week
Hayride with Emory
Kylie Jade and her best bud Ava
Doc Operation
Kylie Jade receiving her achievement award
Sofia the first
Little bit is a gymnast
Friday, October 3, 2014
I Don't Belong to You
Do you even realize how alone I feel?
Trapped, forgotten, broken.
So angry it's turned to bitter sadness?
Wasted so many years, so many tears.
Wished away my youth so I could grow old with you.
Wasted, drifting, gone.
I will never be the same me again.
I lost myself in you.
I'm done with these silly games.
The idiotic way you carry on.
Bitter because you got everything.
I was left with nothing.
Bloody knuckles, cut up wrist, all the rage I feel.
Dance around those empty promises.
Stare at your pathetic ghost.
You lost everything because you don't care.
I don't belong to you.
Trapped, forgotten, broken.
So angry it's turned to bitter sadness?
Wasted so many years, so many tears.
Wished away my youth so I could grow old with you.
Wasted, drifting, gone.
I will never be the same me again.
I lost myself in you.
I'm done with these silly games.
The idiotic way you carry on.
Bitter because you got everything.
I was left with nothing.
Bloody knuckles, cut up wrist, all the rage I feel.
Dance around those empty promises.
Stare at your pathetic ghost.
You lost everything because you don't care.
I don't belong to you.
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Cheer Competiton
Motherhood comes in many different forms of love. One of those loving moments for me was Kylie Jade's recent cheerleading competition. If you know me cheer has never really been my thing and I swore I would never have an athletic cheerer. Anyone who knows me knows I lacked school pep and couldn't care less about sports in general.
I enrolled Kylie Jade into gymnastics when she was a small, potty trained, 2 year old. She has always been super active and socially mature so I figured gymnastics would be a great fit for her. Dance took too much time to learn the routine, but gym was the perfect fit for her. As she learned to flip over bars before she was 3 we found that her interest has doubled. Gymnastics was her thing and once you are in gymnastics you turn to cheering.
My 5 year old daughter expressed in interest and cheer and I was hesitant. I am not big on cheering myself, but if she wanted to do it I would let her try. No harm right? Yea no harm except on my bank account...
As she began into the cheering world we realized quickly that back hand springs, and tucks were going to be a must. I, sadly, took her out of gymnastics and enrolled her into tumbling. Boy has she flourished. She has picked up back hand springs in around 7 months time and while they are not perfect they are coming along quite nice. Along with tumbling she decided she really wanted to do Rec cheerleading so off into the world of the Ringgold Tigers we went.
The first few weeks she didn't really care for it. She wanted to do more tumbling and less cheering. I figured that would happen she loves to cartwheel, and somersault away. As we broke off into groups we found that Kylie Jade was enjoying it more. The cheers were louder, her confidence soared and she was so excited to cheer on the boys.
Monday was her first cheerleading competition ever. I entered in horror as pink shirts, pink hair bows, and preppy made up faces chattered around me. Kylie Jade's eyes were lit up and she was in aw. She went right to her group and was hanging with her cheer friends. She was so excited they picked her to get to cartwheel in front of everyone. I was just sick to my stomach. I kept silently praying she wouldn't fall, she wouldn't get hurt. As they came out for the cheer portion her hands were on her hips and her smile lit up the room. "Are you ready?" "OKAY!" The girls shouted. As they began their 1,2,3,4,5 routine. Kylie Jade spoke clearly and sweetly. The smile never left her face. The crowd all cheered once they left. Next was the dance portion. I was a nervous wreck because I knew she would cry if she fell. She didn't she did fantastic. The girls were all smiling and held their own up there! She nailed her cartwheels and everyone cheered for them. They announced the winners and the girls won their CHEER and ROUTINE! They were so excited and Kylie Jade was on a winning streak high. I gotta say she is amazing. I was so proud of her and happy she was able to show off how sassy, and full of life she is. She told me in the car on the way home that "cheering is definitely my thing!" Looks like more cheer competitions are in our near future!
I gotta say those group of cheer girls are amazing! Our coaches were awesome and all those practices paid off! Congrats Ringgold Tigers team 2 YOU DID IT!
I enrolled Kylie Jade into gymnastics when she was a small, potty trained, 2 year old. She has always been super active and socially mature so I figured gymnastics would be a great fit for her. Dance took too much time to learn the routine, but gym was the perfect fit for her. As she learned to flip over bars before she was 3 we found that her interest has doubled. Gymnastics was her thing and once you are in gymnastics you turn to cheering.
My 5 year old daughter expressed in interest and cheer and I was hesitant. I am not big on cheering myself, but if she wanted to do it I would let her try. No harm right? Yea no harm except on my bank account...
As she began into the cheering world we realized quickly that back hand springs, and tucks were going to be a must. I, sadly, took her out of gymnastics and enrolled her into tumbling. Boy has she flourished. She has picked up back hand springs in around 7 months time and while they are not perfect they are coming along quite nice. Along with tumbling she decided she really wanted to do Rec cheerleading so off into the world of the Ringgold Tigers we went.
The first few weeks she didn't really care for it. She wanted to do more tumbling and less cheering. I figured that would happen she loves to cartwheel, and somersault away. As we broke off into groups we found that Kylie Jade was enjoying it more. The cheers were louder, her confidence soared and she was so excited to cheer on the boys.
Monday was her first cheerleading competition ever. I entered in horror as pink shirts, pink hair bows, and preppy made up faces chattered around me. Kylie Jade's eyes were lit up and she was in aw. She went right to her group and was hanging with her cheer friends. She was so excited they picked her to get to cartwheel in front of everyone. I was just sick to my stomach. I kept silently praying she wouldn't fall, she wouldn't get hurt. As they came out for the cheer portion her hands were on her hips and her smile lit up the room. "Are you ready?" "OKAY!" The girls shouted. As they began their 1,2,3,4,5 routine. Kylie Jade spoke clearly and sweetly. The smile never left her face. The crowd all cheered once they left. Next was the dance portion. I was a nervous wreck because I knew she would cry if she fell. She didn't she did fantastic. The girls were all smiling and held their own up there! She nailed her cartwheels and everyone cheered for them. They announced the winners and the girls won their CHEER and ROUTINE! They were so excited and Kylie Jade was on a winning streak high. I gotta say she is amazing. I was so proud of her and happy she was able to show off how sassy, and full of life she is. She told me in the car on the way home that "cheering is definitely my thing!" Looks like more cheer competitions are in our near future!
I gotta say those group of cheer girls are amazing! Our coaches were awesome and all those practices paid off! Congrats Ringgold Tigers team 2 YOU DID IT!
Cheer practice
My girl got her uniform
Practice one of the very first days
My sweet girl on the first day of cheer
At competition
Sassy thing
Love this
At one of the games
Check out how cute she is
Parade
They won!!
Parade
At one of their games
First place!!!
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
A Look Into A Busy Mom's Life
Some frown upon the business of my schedule. Monday cheer and T-ball, Tuesday cheer, Wednesday gymnastics for both girls, Thursday dance for both and the occasional tball game, Friday cheer practice or parade or competition, Saturday cheer for football game, Sunday church. I have something to do most days of the week and while it is not ideal for some it is what works for us. Having two social butterflies means I got two kids who love to shine. Providing them with any and every opportunity to do so is a must for me. I want my girls to find their passion so they can have something they feel like working for. I've heard many times when a child has a passion in middle and high school they are less likely to fall into the drug or alcohol trap.
I like staying busy because I can see a big part of what my girls love. They shine, they smile, they absolutely love what they do. As time has passed I see that sticking with something has really proven to be wonderful. My 6 year old can do a pretty mean back hand spring. My 3 year old already can crank a ball when pitched to her (not every time of course!) these are things we would've missed out on had I told them no or allowed them to quit when they felt defeat.
Through all the business of my schedule I still allow room for playing, homework, and play dates. Kylie spends most of her free time out on the trampoline practicing for the Olympics or flipping around on her bed trying bridges, splits, hand stands. You name it. After seeing the fire burn for gymnastics we have decided to include private sessions along with her tumbling. 3 class she will be taking the next go round St gymnastics. I have really enjoyed the stage she loves using what she learns on the floor during cheer. She isn't afraid to throw in a cartwheel or round off. I have been blessed with a gymnast and so thankful I put her in at a young age. She's very good for a 6 year old and I am proud to see her get out there and give it her all.
Madilyn is more low key than Kylie you can often find her in dress up high heels, sitting on the floor building or playing with her babies and ponies. She loves to have them play on the castles they have and I can often hear her playing school or family life. With many "mommies" and "the teacher said." She does enjoy going outside and tumbling on the trampoline like her sister. But she is fine playing by herself making her own world.
As the school year is picking up I find that Kylie has much more homework and less time to practice or play. We are finally settling into a very nice routine. She plays then does some homework then plays and comes back and finishes. I know as the grade levels become higher she will have less free time and more work to complete. Being a hard advocate for no homework this can be sticky. Hopefully God will continue blessing us and we will just find a way for everything to be complete without her losing herself in a pile of papers.
I will end with this. My girls mean so much to me. I love watching their little super star personalities and enjoy giving them opportunities to shine. I am so glad each girl has found something they love and maybe they will even want to stick out into the middle or high school years. I am so very excited to see what is in store for them the coming years. I hope they will look back on these times and have sweet memories. I feel like our relationships have strengthened and cannot wait to see what God has planned for us next.
I like staying busy because I can see a big part of what my girls love. They shine, they smile, they absolutely love what they do. As time has passed I see that sticking with something has really proven to be wonderful. My 6 year old can do a pretty mean back hand spring. My 3 year old already can crank a ball when pitched to her (not every time of course!) these are things we would've missed out on had I told them no or allowed them to quit when they felt defeat.
Through all the business of my schedule I still allow room for playing, homework, and play dates. Kylie spends most of her free time out on the trampoline practicing for the Olympics or flipping around on her bed trying bridges, splits, hand stands. You name it. After seeing the fire burn for gymnastics we have decided to include private sessions along with her tumbling. 3 class she will be taking the next go round St gymnastics. I have really enjoyed the stage she loves using what she learns on the floor during cheer. She isn't afraid to throw in a cartwheel or round off. I have been blessed with a gymnast and so thankful I put her in at a young age. She's very good for a 6 year old and I am proud to see her get out there and give it her all.
Madilyn is more low key than Kylie you can often find her in dress up high heels, sitting on the floor building or playing with her babies and ponies. She loves to have them play on the castles they have and I can often hear her playing school or family life. With many "mommies" and "the teacher said." She does enjoy going outside and tumbling on the trampoline like her sister. But she is fine playing by herself making her own world.
As the school year is picking up I find that Kylie has much more homework and less time to practice or play. We are finally settling into a very nice routine. She plays then does some homework then plays and comes back and finishes. I know as the grade levels become higher she will have less free time and more work to complete. Being a hard advocate for no homework this can be sticky. Hopefully God will continue blessing us and we will just find a way for everything to be complete without her losing herself in a pile of papers.
I will end with this. My girls mean so much to me. I love watching their little super star personalities and enjoy giving them opportunities to shine. I am so glad each girl has found something they love and maybe they will even want to stick out into the middle or high school years. I am so very excited to see what is in store for them the coming years. I hope they will look back on these times and have sweet memories. I feel like our relationships have strengthened and cannot wait to see what God has planned for us next.
Her bridge
Tballer
Beautiful
My dancers
Back Hand Springs
Cheerleader
Cheer girl
Madilyn loves Tball
Catching balls with her coach
Her Tigers tball uniform
Bridge
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
A letter to the Imperfect Parents.
Parents,
I know that feeling you get when you've had enough. There's no amount of shame that can compare to what I have felt. I've been guilty of yelling, telling white lies, and breaking the spirit of my children more times than I care to remember. It's times like these that we can learn from each other. Mistakes we've made over and over and over and over again that we can help smooth over for someone else.
I know what it is like to just break down in tears because you are beyond frustrated with that screaming, manipulating, pulsating toddler. I know the guilt you feel when you get a bit too angry and spank or grab a limp arm. I've been there. I've made those mistakes. I can tell you I've come out in the other side more knowledgeable, and sensible than I was in the moment.
I've said the I'm sorries, I've given treats out of guilt and I have bribed when it was the easiest thing to do. I've used fear to get my children to do what I've wanted because it was the laziest thing to do. I'm human. I make mistakes. I'm not perfect.
In the car seat world, the breastfeeding world, and the recycling world I'm considered a terrible parent. I didn't even try to breastfeed, I moved my 3 year old to a high back booster without a 5 point harness around her 3rd birthday and I didn't cloth diaper ever or recycle my formula cans. I love my girls and did what I felt was best for our situation. You may not like it. You may not agree with it. You make think I'm the worst mom on the plant or don't care about my kids. I reiterate: I'm human. I make mistakes. I'm not perfect.
My children attend school because that is the best fit for our family. I make them sit down and obey rules. They have to follow the directions set forth in our family. They are allowed to choose different activities they want to invest their time in. Many people think I'm crazy. Think I am pushing my kids too hard. Think I am making them do things for an image. I love my girls. I give them opportunities because I'm blessed and fortunate enough to be able too. I am not perfect. I make mistakes. I'm human.
We, as women, need to be holding each other up. Not tearing each other down. I'm tired of the negative posts and comments about how so and so is doing this wrong. Especially in a classroom environment. News flash if you have never taught in a classroom "volunteering", if you wanna call it that, does NOT count. We, as teachers, do the best we can with what we have. I hate the argument that I do not know my students. You would be surprised at how well I do know my students. I know what they like, what they dislike, their fears, their struggles, of their families are together or split, their passions and interests. Just because I don't hold a 45 minute conversation about what happened at this point does not mean I am not listening nor do I care. The question will be answered at the appropriate time. Because some times, in this great big world, being quiet and listening are GREAT qualities to have. If you stop letting your child question every single thing in life you may see how much they learn through listening.
If you have a very narrow minded view of something stop posting about it. Sometimes you just need to take a step back and see the picture as a whole. We are human, everyone of us makes mistakes, we are not perfect.
And no matter how perfect you may want to appear..we all know better. Especially me, because I screw up this world of parenting. All. The. Time. I hope I can one day perfect it...until then that is why they say practice makes perfect.
I know that feeling you get when you've had enough. There's no amount of shame that can compare to what I have felt. I've been guilty of yelling, telling white lies, and breaking the spirit of my children more times than I care to remember. It's times like these that we can learn from each other. Mistakes we've made over and over and over and over again that we can help smooth over for someone else.
I know what it is like to just break down in tears because you are beyond frustrated with that screaming, manipulating, pulsating toddler. I know the guilt you feel when you get a bit too angry and spank or grab a limp arm. I've been there. I've made those mistakes. I can tell you I've come out in the other side more knowledgeable, and sensible than I was in the moment.
I've said the I'm sorries, I've given treats out of guilt and I have bribed when it was the easiest thing to do. I've used fear to get my children to do what I've wanted because it was the laziest thing to do. I'm human. I make mistakes. I'm not perfect.
In the car seat world, the breastfeeding world, and the recycling world I'm considered a terrible parent. I didn't even try to breastfeed, I moved my 3 year old to a high back booster without a 5 point harness around her 3rd birthday and I didn't cloth diaper ever or recycle my formula cans. I love my girls and did what I felt was best for our situation. You may not like it. You may not agree with it. You make think I'm the worst mom on the plant or don't care about my kids. I reiterate: I'm human. I make mistakes. I'm not perfect.
My children attend school because that is the best fit for our family. I make them sit down and obey rules. They have to follow the directions set forth in our family. They are allowed to choose different activities they want to invest their time in. Many people think I'm crazy. Think I am pushing my kids too hard. Think I am making them do things for an image. I love my girls. I give them opportunities because I'm blessed and fortunate enough to be able too. I am not perfect. I make mistakes. I'm human.
We, as women, need to be holding each other up. Not tearing each other down. I'm tired of the negative posts and comments about how so and so is doing this wrong. Especially in a classroom environment. News flash if you have never taught in a classroom "volunteering", if you wanna call it that, does NOT count. We, as teachers, do the best we can with what we have. I hate the argument that I do not know my students. You would be surprised at how well I do know my students. I know what they like, what they dislike, their fears, their struggles, of their families are together or split, their passions and interests. Just because I don't hold a 45 minute conversation about what happened at this point does not mean I am not listening nor do I care. The question will be answered at the appropriate time. Because some times, in this great big world, being quiet and listening are GREAT qualities to have. If you stop letting your child question every single thing in life you may see how much they learn through listening.
If you have a very narrow minded view of something stop posting about it. Sometimes you just need to take a step back and see the picture as a whole. We are human, everyone of us makes mistakes, we are not perfect.
And no matter how perfect you may want to appear..we all know better. Especially me, because I screw up this world of parenting. All. The. Time. I hope I can one day perfect it...until then that is why they say practice makes perfect.
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Excusing Poor Behavior
I'm tired of watching the children of this world suffer because these "educated" parents, aren't really educated. I get it, these spawns of yours are "your babies." But when did coddling become such a huge part of society?
I see it over and over and over again. Parents are not taking the time out of their lives to TEACH their children. They just label them "oh they just won't sit still for this long." "They are really shy." "My child just can't do this if I am not sitting and watching." and it goes on and on and on. Fact: Your child CAN do it without you. If you step back, encourage and allow your child to experience something on their own...yeah they can. You wanna know something else? They have been doing it for generations! I don't believe we have ever heard a time from way back when, when a parent had to be involved in EVERY aspect of their children's lives. Because, guess what, they had this little thing called LIVES. They don't have to hang on their kids every rhyme or reason because they had a life that did NOT revolve 100 percent around their little children.
I also see how parents labeling their children is having an effect on them. Obviously if you say Johnny is having trouble reading over and over and over again you know what? Johnny is going to believe that he is having trouble reading and instead of reading he will say something like this "I have trouble reading so I can't read that!" If you say this about your child "they really can't go to summer camp without me sitting there?" Wanna know what? They will believe they can't go to summer camp without you sitting there and observing. It is a disservice to your children. Stop crippling them, stop pretending they NEED you for every single thing and let them grow. You would be surprised by how much growing they can do without you and yet still have a very close relationship with you. Your child isn't YOU so stop pretending they are!
No kid has ever died from going to school, following directions, having their clipped moved from yellow to red, or (SHOCKER) missing recess. Parents, you need to stop micromanaging your child and trying to control every aspect of their lives. They WILL thank you for it later. Your child will survive, they will learn how to behave and they will gain the confidence in themselves that they will need to be successful in this world. I find it funny how quick parents, and hell even outsiders to the school community, are quick to blame school and teachers for their kids poor behavior and the fact they are unable to control themselves. Example: you have a two year old who misbehaves or "cannot sit" in a restaurant? Instead of teaching your child how to act you don't set any limits or expectations. Instead you hinder said child by placing the label "she can't sit still" and you allow her to scream, act like a heathen, and have no control over the situation because you've given every ounce of control to a tiny, screaming, power hungry 2 year old. The solution would be to set limits and expectations ahead of time you would be surprised what your child can do. My daughter, Madilyn, has acted crazy many, many times over the years in restaurants. Instead of excusing her poor behavior with the "she's two" excuse I removed her. I told her I expected better and until she could stop screaming/running around etc we would not be returning. Her behavior is UNACCEPTABLE and I EXPECT more from her. It took right around a month of doing this over and over again. You know what? She can behave appropriately in a restaurant now and I don't have any poor behavior to apologize for.
Parents, you have GOT to stop making excuses for their behavior and apologizing for it. You are doing your child a disservice in the long run. Stop being lazy, parenting takes a lot of work. Yes, sending my kids to bed at an early time is a lot of work. It means we have to do baths, stories, dinner, teeth brushing and whatever else in a timely manner to make sure they are well rested. My kids don't get the option of staying up late. It is non-negotiable. Because your child wants to play in the street are you going to let them? This idea of giving kids a choice over everything is insane. They don't like dinner? They can eat what is served or not eat at all. It isn't going to kill your kid to have a taste of a vegetable or fruit every now and again. Yes, natural consequences are good too, my child decides to stay awake and play well they are going to be very tired the next day. Stop being your child's friend and freaking parent them. I have a close relationship with my girls, but I don't let them run all over me. They know who is in charge and they are to follow my rules. This is why Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother is in the 10 commandments it does NOT say Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother When it is Convenient for You. Nor does it say Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother but First Question Everything They are Saying.
I guess all I'm trying to say is PARENT and quit coddling and making excuses for poor behavior "oh sorry Bobby was really upset because Kathy broke up with him, but it's okay that he stabbed her he just is having a hard time emotionally dealing with the stress of her leaving him! It's all Kathy's fault if she wouldn't have broken up with him she wouldn't have gotten stabbed..."
I see it over and over and over again. Parents are not taking the time out of their lives to TEACH their children. They just label them "oh they just won't sit still for this long." "They are really shy." "My child just can't do this if I am not sitting and watching." and it goes on and on and on. Fact: Your child CAN do it without you. If you step back, encourage and allow your child to experience something on their own...yeah they can. You wanna know something else? They have been doing it for generations! I don't believe we have ever heard a time from way back when, when a parent had to be involved in EVERY aspect of their children's lives. Because, guess what, they had this little thing called LIVES. They don't have to hang on their kids every rhyme or reason because they had a life that did NOT revolve 100 percent around their little children.
I also see how parents labeling their children is having an effect on them. Obviously if you say Johnny is having trouble reading over and over and over again you know what? Johnny is going to believe that he is having trouble reading and instead of reading he will say something like this "I have trouble reading so I can't read that!" If you say this about your child "they really can't go to summer camp without me sitting there?" Wanna know what? They will believe they can't go to summer camp without you sitting there and observing. It is a disservice to your children. Stop crippling them, stop pretending they NEED you for every single thing and let them grow. You would be surprised by how much growing they can do without you and yet still have a very close relationship with you. Your child isn't YOU so stop pretending they are!
No kid has ever died from going to school, following directions, having their clipped moved from yellow to red, or (SHOCKER) missing recess. Parents, you need to stop micromanaging your child and trying to control every aspect of their lives. They WILL thank you for it later. Your child will survive, they will learn how to behave and they will gain the confidence in themselves that they will need to be successful in this world. I find it funny how quick parents, and hell even outsiders to the school community, are quick to blame school and teachers for their kids poor behavior and the fact they are unable to control themselves. Example: you have a two year old who misbehaves or "cannot sit" in a restaurant? Instead of teaching your child how to act you don't set any limits or expectations. Instead you hinder said child by placing the label "she can't sit still" and you allow her to scream, act like a heathen, and have no control over the situation because you've given every ounce of control to a tiny, screaming, power hungry 2 year old. The solution would be to set limits and expectations ahead of time you would be surprised what your child can do. My daughter, Madilyn, has acted crazy many, many times over the years in restaurants. Instead of excusing her poor behavior with the "she's two" excuse I removed her. I told her I expected better and until she could stop screaming/running around etc we would not be returning. Her behavior is UNACCEPTABLE and I EXPECT more from her. It took right around a month of doing this over and over again. You know what? She can behave appropriately in a restaurant now and I don't have any poor behavior to apologize for.
Parents, you have GOT to stop making excuses for their behavior and apologizing for it. You are doing your child a disservice in the long run. Stop being lazy, parenting takes a lot of work. Yes, sending my kids to bed at an early time is a lot of work. It means we have to do baths, stories, dinner, teeth brushing and whatever else in a timely manner to make sure they are well rested. My kids don't get the option of staying up late. It is non-negotiable. Because your child wants to play in the street are you going to let them? This idea of giving kids a choice over everything is insane. They don't like dinner? They can eat what is served or not eat at all. It isn't going to kill your kid to have a taste of a vegetable or fruit every now and again. Yes, natural consequences are good too, my child decides to stay awake and play well they are going to be very tired the next day. Stop being your child's friend and freaking parent them. I have a close relationship with my girls, but I don't let them run all over me. They know who is in charge and they are to follow my rules. This is why Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother is in the 10 commandments it does NOT say Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother When it is Convenient for You. Nor does it say Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother but First Question Everything They are Saying.
I guess all I'm trying to say is PARENT and quit coddling and making excuses for poor behavior "oh sorry Bobby was really upset because Kathy broke up with him, but it's okay that he stabbed her he just is having a hard time emotionally dealing with the stress of her leaving him! It's all Kathy's fault if she wouldn't have broken up with him she wouldn't have gotten stabbed..."
Sunday, August 24, 2014
I Hate School Uniforms!
Now that I have had both children in both environments. Non-uniformed and uniformed. I gotta say I HATE having my daughter wear school uniforms. Here are a few reasons why.
1. I don't like the price tag. She already has summer clothes, that are completely find for her to wear. I don't need the extra cost of buying outfits for 5 days a week. Not only do you have to buy an entire wardrobe you have to add in shoes, and sock, tights whatever!
2. I do not like how they have specific colors! It's bad enough they all have to look the same, but being limited to 3 different colors doesn't help anything!
3. Everyone looks the same! As a teacher when I am first learning kids names it is hard for me to tell them apart. I have several boys in particular that look alike and the wearing the same outfit does not help anything!
4. I don't understand the argument "uniforms are awesome I have no fight in the mornings on what they are going to wear!" Um, hello?! My daughter picks out her outfit the night before so there is no rushing in the morning, she is practicing making GOOD choices on what to wear, and in actuality there is almost NOTHING in her drawers that would be out of "dress code"so this argument is invalid.
5. I have also heard the argument "my child doesn't like itchy clothes etc" well I have heard of uniforms being uncomfortable and itchy. I LOATHED my dress code in public school. Those stupid polo shirts were so uncomfortable, itchy and they shrank almost every time you washed them!
6. I don't like being told what to spend my money on! I want to buy my kids clothes they WANT to wear (within reason) not something they have to wear just to look like everyone else they go to school with.
7. I hate being told how to dress them. What's wrong with an appropriate length t-shirt and jeans?
8. In the real world most jobs don't have a uniform. Dress code? Sure. Uniform? Very rare.
9. Uniforms for preschoolers just seems absurd to me! They are only little once! Let their free spirit out!
10. I like my girls to pick out what they want to wear to give them individuality, and proper decision making skills. They get to go to school knowing they are dressed like whatever fits their personality! As crazy, spunky, normal, or outlandish it may be!
1. I don't like the price tag. She already has summer clothes, that are completely find for her to wear. I don't need the extra cost of buying outfits for 5 days a week. Not only do you have to buy an entire wardrobe you have to add in shoes, and sock, tights whatever!
2. I do not like how they have specific colors! It's bad enough they all have to look the same, but being limited to 3 different colors doesn't help anything!
3. Everyone looks the same! As a teacher when I am first learning kids names it is hard for me to tell them apart. I have several boys in particular that look alike and the wearing the same outfit does not help anything!
4. I don't understand the argument "uniforms are awesome I have no fight in the mornings on what they are going to wear!" Um, hello?! My daughter picks out her outfit the night before so there is no rushing in the morning, she is practicing making GOOD choices on what to wear, and in actuality there is almost NOTHING in her drawers that would be out of "dress code"so this argument is invalid.
5. I have also heard the argument "my child doesn't like itchy clothes etc" well I have heard of uniforms being uncomfortable and itchy. I LOATHED my dress code in public school. Those stupid polo shirts were so uncomfortable, itchy and they shrank almost every time you washed them!
6. I don't like being told what to spend my money on! I want to buy my kids clothes they WANT to wear (within reason) not something they have to wear just to look like everyone else they go to school with.
7. I hate being told how to dress them. What's wrong with an appropriate length t-shirt and jeans?
8. In the real world most jobs don't have a uniform. Dress code? Sure. Uniform? Very rare.
9. Uniforms for preschoolers just seems absurd to me! They are only little once! Let their free spirit out!
10. I like my girls to pick out what they want to wear to give them individuality, and proper decision making skills. They get to go to school knowing they are dressed like whatever fits their personality! As crazy, spunky, normal, or outlandish it may be!
A few things I have learned about myself and everything else with two in school.
This year has been a big one for our family. It is the first year both of my girls go to school full time. Madilyn had started off at a small daycare center going 3 days a week, but then I got the offer to allow her to come to work with me every day (bonus! I get to see my young child make friends, see what she is learning throughout the day and if she misses a day I can review at home!) She has fit right in, made new friends and has enjoyed all day school.
I have learned a few things about myself as the end of month one comes to a close.
1. I am ALWAYS on time or early! Not a single person in this house has been late for school or work! Which is awesome!
2. I am very nutty about education! I don't allow you to miss school because you are sleepy (to remedy this situation you should go to bed earlier. In reality when you have a job you have to be on time and can't miss just because you are sleepy!)
3. I am very different from most parents out there. God comes first, then your education. You only miss school if you are feverish sick, have a stomach bug or broke a bone. Dr. appointments, dentist visits and everything else can wait until AFTER school to be scheduled. (This does not count for Preschool or Pre-K this isn't considered 'school' until Kindergarten because absences don't count!)
4. I don't believe in "mental health days" that's what the weekend is for.
5. I find myself really believing children should attend some kind of program where mommy or daddy isn't the teacher all the time. Plug them into Sunday school away from you, school, an activity, a co-op. For goodness sakes you don't need to know EVERY detail of your child's life. Some things they want to experience on their own!
6. Parents these days SMOTHER their kids. I didn't realize how much it got on my nerves until recently!
7. I try and see other peoples point of view.
8. I don't believe you should pay for education unless you ABSOLUTELY believe in what you are paying for.
From the mouth of babes: things my SIX year old has learned from attending school from her perspective.
1. To be kind to others.
2. To read.
3. Learning about God.
4. Learn how to play with my friends.
5. Learning how to get along with others.
Just a few important things I have seen my six year old learn from school:
1. Her confidence level has boosted. She does not need me to stand around and watch her at cheer practice, she doesn't need me to hold her hand while exploring books in the library, and she doesn't need me to make her own lunches anymore. These are things she feels confident she can do herself!
2. She has improved tremendously on reading, writing and spelling. She could do those things at home, but I am not a great teacher for the upper grades. I want to see what she can do with other people. When she grows up and gets a job I won't be there to hold her hand and tell her how to do her job. She will have to learn these things away from me!
3. I have seen her passions and interests grow. She enjoys Spanish class (something we would have never wanted to pay for or invest time in).
4. She enjoys getting to meet new teachers and playing with friends of all ages on the playground. She has made some tight knit friends, but has been able to be flexible and allow new people in. She has learned that people come and go in life, but family is constant.
A few things I have seen my young one learn from school.
1. She is flexible.
2. She can make friends with anybody.
3. She can hang in a crowd with kids a year older than her.
4. She takes to a second language easily.
5. She can fall and get hurt and is fine with another teacher comforting her.
Having two in school has been a fun experience this year. My girls have enjoyed swapping stories about their daily happenings and I can see how much they enjoy time with their teachers and friends. I have really enjoyed watching both of them spark and have a passion for things I could not offer them otherwise. I am so proud of them, and cannot wait to see what the rest of this year holds for us!
I have learned a few things about myself as the end of month one comes to a close.
1. I am ALWAYS on time or early! Not a single person in this house has been late for school or work! Which is awesome!
2. I am very nutty about education! I don't allow you to miss school because you are sleepy (to remedy this situation you should go to bed earlier. In reality when you have a job you have to be on time and can't miss just because you are sleepy!)
3. I am very different from most parents out there. God comes first, then your education. You only miss school if you are feverish sick, have a stomach bug or broke a bone. Dr. appointments, dentist visits and everything else can wait until AFTER school to be scheduled. (This does not count for Preschool or Pre-K this isn't considered 'school' until Kindergarten because absences don't count!)
4. I don't believe in "mental health days" that's what the weekend is for.
5. I find myself really believing children should attend some kind of program where mommy or daddy isn't the teacher all the time. Plug them into Sunday school away from you, school, an activity, a co-op. For goodness sakes you don't need to know EVERY detail of your child's life. Some things they want to experience on their own!
6. Parents these days SMOTHER their kids. I didn't realize how much it got on my nerves until recently!
7. I try and see other peoples point of view.
8. I don't believe you should pay for education unless you ABSOLUTELY believe in what you are paying for.
From the mouth of babes: things my SIX year old has learned from attending school from her perspective.
1. To be kind to others.
2. To read.
3. Learning about God.
4. Learn how to play with my friends.
5. Learning how to get along with others.
Just a few important things I have seen my six year old learn from school:
1. Her confidence level has boosted. She does not need me to stand around and watch her at cheer practice, she doesn't need me to hold her hand while exploring books in the library, and she doesn't need me to make her own lunches anymore. These are things she feels confident she can do herself!
2. She has improved tremendously on reading, writing and spelling. She could do those things at home, but I am not a great teacher for the upper grades. I want to see what she can do with other people. When she grows up and gets a job I won't be there to hold her hand and tell her how to do her job. She will have to learn these things away from me!
3. I have seen her passions and interests grow. She enjoys Spanish class (something we would have never wanted to pay for or invest time in).
4. She enjoys getting to meet new teachers and playing with friends of all ages on the playground. She has made some tight knit friends, but has been able to be flexible and allow new people in. She has learned that people come and go in life, but family is constant.
A few things I have seen my young one learn from school.
1. She is flexible.
2. She can make friends with anybody.
3. She can hang in a crowd with kids a year older than her.
4. She takes to a second language easily.
5. She can fall and get hurt and is fine with another teacher comforting her.
Having two in school has been a fun experience this year. My girls have enjoyed swapping stories about their daily happenings and I can see how much they enjoy time with their teachers and friends. I have really enjoyed watching both of them spark and have a passion for things I could not offer them otherwise. I am so proud of them, and cannot wait to see what the rest of this year holds for us!
Madilyn ready for school
Sweet girl excited about school
Madilyn is crazy
My big girl ready for school
First day of Kindergarten vs First day of 1st Grade
At school
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