I've been slacking in the blog department. I bet everyone has been on edge...huh? I will try to catch up a little bit here. So the day had finally come for Trevor for his first communion. I've discovered that it is very difficult to explain this ceremony to someone who isn't Catholic, and I'm not familiar with other religions enough to know if there is anything similar. I do know that if you have a girl making her first communion, boy can she get decked out. Beautiful white dress, veil, gloves, and I have no doubt Gwen will eat it all up when it is her turn. I bet she won't put as much value in the process and the fact that she can actually participate during communions to come. I think she just wants to put on and dress up with her dress. She loved looking through the catalogue I got in Trevor's folder of information.
I digress....So Trevor has been waiting, and waiting, and asking when his turn was going to be. Finally the preparation was done, and the day was here. We had a great turn out, and Gwen was able to enjoy herself in the Nursery. Technically she shouldn't be down there, having gone to Sunday school this year, but I'd rather not have to keep my eye on her.
They had a nice ceremony, and Trevor of course couldn't stop talking about the wine. They had already tried both the bread and wine in their last meeting of the session, so at least he knew what he was in for. But he still could not keep his thoughts to himself about the wine. Hopefully the whole congregation didn't hear.
So we had brunch and gifts for Trevor from his wonderful family. I know that the day was a right of passage for Trevor. He can now go up for Communion with the rest of the family. Next up, 2nd grade graduation!
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Twins game...check!
Well, last summer, the time got away from us. Two years ago, we went to a Twins game and it was a little tricky with Gwen, only being 2 years old. Last year, we didn't get a chance. I had it on my list of things we had to do this summer. And it wasn't even in the schedule yet. I guess this was one of those things that just happened to work out perfectly for us.
We had tentative plans for Saturday to at least meet up with Derek and Kyrsten for a number of reasons: Her birthday, baby gifts to look over, and simply because it had been a few weeks since we had said hi. So we started the conversations, and found out that they had come into a set of 4 tickets due to an illness in the family of the original ticket owners. Should we use them? Should some of us use them? Should we decide to do something else? The game was at 6:10. It was a beautiful night, no rain forecast. The Twins had not been doing very well so that if we wanted to look for more tickets, chances are they wouldn't be tough to find, or overpriced.
After talking it over, we decided to go for it. I looked up tickets in the same section for two of us, and found a few choices. They were both under face value. So I snatched them and we started getting ready. We arrived and had a few minutes to play around before Derek and Russ had to run some errands. The time began to tick away, and it was getting close to when we had to get going to make it for the first pitch. So Kyrsten and I loaded the kids and headed out to the park. The boys came later.
We got into the park as they were heading out to the field, and walked to our seats, on the 3rd base side. The kids were ready to eat so we got them their requested hot dogs and water. We brought gloves and jackets for Gwen and I. Even as we were riding into the game, Trevor was asking when we were going to leave. REALLY TREVOR? As much as I could, I tried to ignore his want to leave by the 5th inning. And asking him politely to enjoy being there...it was going to be a beautiful night to be watching baseball. As we sat down in our seats, he started to ask again...and I said if he promised me to drop it, I would let him give me his opinion. He accepted that, and said at the 6th inning.
The kids started eating and soon the Twins were up for their first at-bats. Because of our seats I explained that we were going to have to watch out for left handed batters. He didn't believe me at first, but both Span and Mauer fouled some off by us. Trevor then wasn't sure if he should put down his hot dog to try to catch the balls. I could tell he enjoyed being able to track the ball and watch the game, and all the side games much more than in the previous games he went to.
Gwen was enjoying cheering for her Twins and especially the ones she knew by name. She has been getting over a nasty virus but had finally started eating again, which I thought was a good sign. While she didn't always want to stay in her seat, it was better than 2 years ago. She played with a phone only for probably 15 minutes during the entire game.
Derek and Russ made it to the game around the 4th or 5th inning. They took some seats in the row behind us and shortly after, the people sitting next to us on the end of our row left for the evening. I think they only stayed for 3 innings or so. So we were all in the same row. Very nice. Gwen and Trevor both got their ice cream in a helmet before we left. By that time, it was the end of the game anyway.
Strangely enough though, there was this group of 3 that sat in the row in front of us. They looked to be in their mid 20s or so...maybe older. Anyway, it was two guys and a girl and one of the guys came back to his seat with a foam finger for Gwen. He just took it out of his stuff and said she looked like she could use it. The guy then saw that she had a brother, and found another vendor and got a pink foam finger for her and asked her to give the blue one to Trevor. This group was so nice and chatty from that point on. They thought it was funny when the kids were poking them with the fingers and were respectful enough to know not to swear or be disruptive.
Through all these things, by the end of the game, when we decided to get up and get ready to go, guess who was saying he didn't want to go? Yep, Trevor. And of course, since then it has been everything about baseball: wanting to play for the Twins, playing Mario Super Sluggers, practicing baseball outside, and thank goodness for the lovely weather that is due us.
So yes, the to-do of going to a Twins game this year is checked. Thank goodness we took advantage of this opportunity. Everything worked out so perfectly...except that the Twins couldn't pull out a win. And I love that Trevor didn't want to leave. I knew that he had a wonderful time as well.
We had tentative plans for Saturday to at least meet up with Derek and Kyrsten for a number of reasons: Her birthday, baby gifts to look over, and simply because it had been a few weeks since we had said hi. So we started the conversations, and found out that they had come into a set of 4 tickets due to an illness in the family of the original ticket owners. Should we use them? Should some of us use them? Should we decide to do something else? The game was at 6:10. It was a beautiful night, no rain forecast. The Twins had not been doing very well so that if we wanted to look for more tickets, chances are they wouldn't be tough to find, or overpriced.
After talking it over, we decided to go for it. I looked up tickets in the same section for two of us, and found a few choices. They were both under face value. So I snatched them and we started getting ready. We arrived and had a few minutes to play around before Derek and Russ had to run some errands. The time began to tick away, and it was getting close to when we had to get going to make it for the first pitch. So Kyrsten and I loaded the kids and headed out to the park. The boys came later.
We got into the park as they were heading out to the field, and walked to our seats, on the 3rd base side. The kids were ready to eat so we got them their requested hot dogs and water. We brought gloves and jackets for Gwen and I. Even as we were riding into the game, Trevor was asking when we were going to leave. REALLY TREVOR? As much as I could, I tried to ignore his want to leave by the 5th inning. And asking him politely to enjoy being there...it was going to be a beautiful night to be watching baseball. As we sat down in our seats, he started to ask again...and I said if he promised me to drop it, I would let him give me his opinion. He accepted that, and said at the 6th inning.
The kids started eating and soon the Twins were up for their first at-bats. Because of our seats I explained that we were going to have to watch out for left handed batters. He didn't believe me at first, but both Span and Mauer fouled some off by us. Trevor then wasn't sure if he should put down his hot dog to try to catch the balls. I could tell he enjoyed being able to track the ball and watch the game, and all the side games much more than in the previous games he went to.
Gwen was enjoying cheering for her Twins and especially the ones she knew by name. She has been getting over a nasty virus but had finally started eating again, which I thought was a good sign. While she didn't always want to stay in her seat, it was better than 2 years ago. She played with a phone only for probably 15 minutes during the entire game.
Derek and Russ made it to the game around the 4th or 5th inning. They took some seats in the row behind us and shortly after, the people sitting next to us on the end of our row left for the evening. I think they only stayed for 3 innings or so. So we were all in the same row. Very nice. Gwen and Trevor both got their ice cream in a helmet before we left. By that time, it was the end of the game anyway.
Strangely enough though, there was this group of 3 that sat in the row in front of us. They looked to be in their mid 20s or so...maybe older. Anyway, it was two guys and a girl and one of the guys came back to his seat with a foam finger for Gwen. He just took it out of his stuff and said she looked like she could use it. The guy then saw that she had a brother, and found another vendor and got a pink foam finger for her and asked her to give the blue one to Trevor. This group was so nice and chatty from that point on. They thought it was funny when the kids were poking them with the fingers and were respectful enough to know not to swear or be disruptive.
Through all these things, by the end of the game, when we decided to get up and get ready to go, guess who was saying he didn't want to go? Yep, Trevor. And of course, since then it has been everything about baseball: wanting to play for the Twins, playing Mario Super Sluggers, practicing baseball outside, and thank goodness for the lovely weather that is due us.
So yes, the to-do of going to a Twins game this year is checked. Thank goodness we took advantage of this opportunity. Everything worked out so perfectly...except that the Twins couldn't pull out a win. And I love that Trevor didn't want to leave. I knew that he had a wonderful time as well.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
A string of good luck would be nice
Although I guess when I think about it, at least we haven't had a string of bad luck! It seems to be up and down with the family lately. Trevor's been having a good time having a little break for the weekends, starting up baseball, getting ready for his First Communion in less than two weeks, and really getting excited for his summer vacation. Gwen has been slowly coming to a realization that she will be going to Kindergarten at Trevor's school next year, and that means saying goodbye to most of her friends at Preschool. They are changing the way they are running their preschool again next year, so I am glad that we are not going to have to adjust to that next year. I have signed the kids up for most of their summer camps, at least the ones that I can, and it doesn't seem to be too busy. I think they have either 12 or 13 weeks off, and only have camps for 4 weeks for Gwen and 6 weeks for Trevor.
We started our unofficial kick-off to the summer at the lake this weekend with the Kentucky Derby party. I brought Gwen up on Friday afternoon because she was done with school and we wanted to make it up in time for dinner. Trevor and Russ stayed back so they could do their baseball practice. Of course it got rained out but they didn't know until they showed up at their field. Trevor at least got to go on an early morning walk and play outside for a little while on Saturday before the storms came in and rained us out for the rest of the weekend. All the little kids enjoyed their horse cheering sections. We each got to draw two horses, so we had two to cheer for (except the winner...nice drawing Kelsey!). We had our regular dominoes games at night, thankfully the kids slept ok...although Gwen was up early on Saturday, but I'm so bummed that the weather hasn't been as good as it could be. No boat rides, no toes in the water, no Vitamin D overdose....so I've been very blah lately.
I have been running around doing some year-end things for the school and haven't had much time to settle down yet. I hear tomorrow is supposed to be nice? Now I just have to find some things to do outside and hopefully keep Gwen interested. At least I can hope...no rain tomorrow please!
We started our unofficial kick-off to the summer at the lake this weekend with the Kentucky Derby party. I brought Gwen up on Friday afternoon because she was done with school and we wanted to make it up in time for dinner. Trevor and Russ stayed back so they could do their baseball practice. Of course it got rained out but they didn't know until they showed up at their field. Trevor at least got to go on an early morning walk and play outside for a little while on Saturday before the storms came in and rained us out for the rest of the weekend. All the little kids enjoyed their horse cheering sections. We each got to draw two horses, so we had two to cheer for (except the winner...nice drawing Kelsey!). We had our regular dominoes games at night, thankfully the kids slept ok...although Gwen was up early on Saturday, but I'm so bummed that the weather hasn't been as good as it could be. No boat rides, no toes in the water, no Vitamin D overdose....so I've been very blah lately.
I have been running around doing some year-end things for the school and haven't had much time to settle down yet. I hear tomorrow is supposed to be nice? Now I just have to find some things to do outside and hopefully keep Gwen interested. At least I can hope...no rain tomorrow please!
Monday, April 30, 2012
Carnival times!
Well being the treasurer sure does have its busy times. One of the busiest is the school carnival. It was last Friday. I also help with tickets, that means ordering them and making sure all three ticket booths have enough tickets to last the night. And then there is the money. Both the tickets and the silent auction bring in cash.
Unfortunately it is a very long night for me and one where I don't get a chance to hang out with the kids while they are enjoying the carnival. This was the first year that I let Trevor go off with a friend and he didn't have to stay with an adult. I know he was looking forward to hanging around with his friend for a long time. Gwen was able to also hang around with another girl so she didn't feel left out.
Russ has been traveling again, and Trevor has started his first communion prep. I have to say, I am really impressed with all they get done in an hour and a half. We have already done two weeks, and only have 3 more to go. I also hear they may be bringing back Wednesday night religion classes to the church next year. I don't know if that is going to change Kindergarten Sunday School or not. But that will be interesting to see how it all works out.
Gwen is getting down to her last few weeks of dance practices. Trevor is supposed to start baseball tonight but it conflicts directly with church, so we have to do that instead. This weekend we go to the cabin for Kentucky Derby and that really kicks off the summer season for us. The weather this week is actually supposed to be warm. Hopefully it will continue into the weekend so we can enjoy warm weather at the lake. Not that we plan on swimming, but perhaps putting our toes in the lake? Granted, if I let the kids do that, there is virtually no chance that they will get their entire body wet. Especially if it is warmer outside.
I counted, and there are only 6 weeks left of school for Trevor. Less for Gwen. The spring sure is coming to a close quickly, especially since we haven't actually seen snow for a few months now. Bring on the heat!
Unfortunately it is a very long night for me and one where I don't get a chance to hang out with the kids while they are enjoying the carnival. This was the first year that I let Trevor go off with a friend and he didn't have to stay with an adult. I know he was looking forward to hanging around with his friend for a long time. Gwen was able to also hang around with another girl so she didn't feel left out.
Russ has been traveling again, and Trevor has started his first communion prep. I have to say, I am really impressed with all they get done in an hour and a half. We have already done two weeks, and only have 3 more to go. I also hear they may be bringing back Wednesday night religion classes to the church next year. I don't know if that is going to change Kindergarten Sunday School or not. But that will be interesting to see how it all works out.
Gwen is getting down to her last few weeks of dance practices. Trevor is supposed to start baseball tonight but it conflicts directly with church, so we have to do that instead. This weekend we go to the cabin for Kentucky Derby and that really kicks off the summer season for us. The weather this week is actually supposed to be warm. Hopefully it will continue into the weekend so we can enjoy warm weather at the lake. Not that we plan on swimming, but perhaps putting our toes in the lake? Granted, if I let the kids do that, there is virtually no chance that they will get their entire body wet. Especially if it is warmer outside.
I counted, and there are only 6 weeks left of school for Trevor. Less for Gwen. The spring sure is coming to a close quickly, especially since we haven't actually seen snow for a few months now. Bring on the heat!
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
What a great weekend
As seems to have been the case with the weather people, we were forecasted to have a questionable weekend, and it turned out perfect for what we had to do. I knew this week was going to be crazy with First Communion prep, chess, dance lessons, dance pictures, PTA meeting, and preschool recital, but then we also had Trevor's piano recital and Sunday school to start the week off.
I was actually surprised Russ was up for going up to Derek and Kyrsten's for the day on Saturday. He was going to have to leave for the week on Sunday evening but we were very lucky to have a beautiful day so we decided to run up and take advantage of it. We headed out to a park by their house on Medicine Lake where the boys could go fishing and the girl could play at the park while the other girls watched. We had been to this park before, but with another year of practice on jungle gyms, Gwen has gotten very good at balance and having fun on all the different equipment without me having to be right under foot. I think she called at least 4 girls at the park "friend", as in "Hey friend, come here! Come and play with me friend!" But hey, I guess if they don't complain, who am I to say anything. I think that is what she really enjoys about preschool, is the social part of their playtime. And if they are outside on their equipment, they do look like they have a fun time.
Trevor tried to fish, but the other two boys were not catching anything so Trevor quickly lost interest. He also found a friend to play for a bit on the equipment, but I think having recess and extra outdoor recess on the school's playground didn't really hold his interest for long. So he saw a kid around his age (shorter, but I couldn't tell if he was older or younger) playing basketball and started playing with him. There were two different height-sized hoops, and both of them were shooting at the taller one. The shorter one was the same height that he played his YMCA games at, but he could still make some shots at the taller one, so I guess it was fine with him. It seemed like everyone was having a good time. Only problem was, the kids had an early lunch so we could head out to get some things at Target and hadn't eaten since then. I knew that they wouldn't say they were hungry, especially since they were having a good time.
Around 5:00, a group of 5-6 what looked like college kids came to play basketball, and the boys wouldn't give them the taller hoop. So they started to play the shorter one, but quickly got bored. They asked the kids nicely to let them play on the taller one, and the other kid said, "only if you let us play". So they did. At first Trevor was just watching, because he had gone over to see how the other boys were doing fishing. But then he came back, and saw that his friend was playing with the guys, so he wanted to join in. They actually would pass it to the other boy and let him take a shot or two. He might have even stolen a ball, but I wasn't paying that much attention. And then Trevor joined in. I think he was a little nervous to even really try to play with them. He would put his hands up to try to block a pass or shot, but never really asked for the ball, just ran around trying to watch or block. It was very heartwarming to see him so happy, and that these guys were letting him play.
At about 5:30, we told him we had to get going. So someone let him take the ball, let him take a shot, and he made it. At that point, he was over the moon. I'm pretty sure that will be etched in his memory for quite a while. So it was a good day.
Then on Sunday, he had his piano recital. We had to go out to Roseville for it, and this time, it was a quick recital. There were 16 kids, and 24 total songs. Trevor was in the first 3rd of the kids, and he and his teacher did a great job. There really isn't much to say about a piano recital because it is obviously something you have to hear, but he did a really great job. I'm interested to hear what he is going to pick out for the talent show.
So our weekends are now starting to get filled up. I don't think we have an entirely empty weekend from now until the middle of June. I can only hope for nice weather to get me through....it's going to fly by. Only 8 weeks left of school!
I was actually surprised Russ was up for going up to Derek and Kyrsten's for the day on Saturday. He was going to have to leave for the week on Sunday evening but we were very lucky to have a beautiful day so we decided to run up and take advantage of it. We headed out to a park by their house on Medicine Lake where the boys could go fishing and the girl could play at the park while the other girls watched. We had been to this park before, but with another year of practice on jungle gyms, Gwen has gotten very good at balance and having fun on all the different equipment without me having to be right under foot. I think she called at least 4 girls at the park "friend", as in "Hey friend, come here! Come and play with me friend!" But hey, I guess if they don't complain, who am I to say anything. I think that is what she really enjoys about preschool, is the social part of their playtime. And if they are outside on their equipment, they do look like they have a fun time.
Trevor tried to fish, but the other two boys were not catching anything so Trevor quickly lost interest. He also found a friend to play for a bit on the equipment, but I think having recess and extra outdoor recess on the school's playground didn't really hold his interest for long. So he saw a kid around his age (shorter, but I couldn't tell if he was older or younger) playing basketball and started playing with him. There were two different height-sized hoops, and both of them were shooting at the taller one. The shorter one was the same height that he played his YMCA games at, but he could still make some shots at the taller one, so I guess it was fine with him. It seemed like everyone was having a good time. Only problem was, the kids had an early lunch so we could head out to get some things at Target and hadn't eaten since then. I knew that they wouldn't say they were hungry, especially since they were having a good time.
Around 5:00, a group of 5-6 what looked like college kids came to play basketball, and the boys wouldn't give them the taller hoop. So they started to play the shorter one, but quickly got bored. They asked the kids nicely to let them play on the taller one, and the other kid said, "only if you let us play". So they did. At first Trevor was just watching, because he had gone over to see how the other boys were doing fishing. But then he came back, and saw that his friend was playing with the guys, so he wanted to join in. They actually would pass it to the other boy and let him take a shot or two. He might have even stolen a ball, but I wasn't paying that much attention. And then Trevor joined in. I think he was a little nervous to even really try to play with them. He would put his hands up to try to block a pass or shot, but never really asked for the ball, just ran around trying to watch or block. It was very heartwarming to see him so happy, and that these guys were letting him play.
At about 5:30, we told him we had to get going. So someone let him take the ball, let him take a shot, and he made it. At that point, he was over the moon. I'm pretty sure that will be etched in his memory for quite a while. So it was a good day.
Then on Sunday, he had his piano recital. We had to go out to Roseville for it, and this time, it was a quick recital. There were 16 kids, and 24 total songs. Trevor was in the first 3rd of the kids, and he and his teacher did a great job. There really isn't much to say about a piano recital because it is obviously something you have to hear, but he did a really great job. I'm interested to hear what he is going to pick out for the talent show.
So our weekends are now starting to get filled up. I don't think we have an entirely empty weekend from now until the middle of June. I can only hope for nice weather to get me through....it's going to fly by. Only 8 weeks left of school!
Friday, April 6, 2012
Oh, you'll like Gwen...SHE'S an ARTIST
Anyone catch that quote? Heh heh...I may not be born a Johnson, but living with one for over a decade can rub off on you!
Not the point...my point was that Gwen has become quite the little artist. I guess I was correct in saying that she really wanted paper for Christmas. Reams of it if she could. But she also likes notebooks, the smaller the better. She got a drawing pad as one of her gifts...80 pages. I gave it to her for a car ride and she is down to under 10 pages of unused pages. And she doesn't just make one thing...she makes a picture. Some of them are actually journal entries. Those are a little tough for me because while she is getting really good practice writing her letters, she isn't picking up on spelling. When she gets to Kindergarten, I'm glad they will be teaching brave spelling because she could really use that now. But now, she knows that words are made from letters, and she wants them to be correct so I am the one that has to spell everything out for her.
Some of her ideas of what to draw and then write out are: yes - its not too early to be thinking about her Christmas list! I guess she doesn't understand that she could also make her own birthday list, since her birthday comes before Christmas, but she likes to draw something out and then write what it is in case Santa can't tell. Ah, I will say that she now knows how to spell the word "doll" very well. Doesn't matter if it is an actual toy, any movie or TV character, she will draw a picture of them and say that it is a doll and then ask for it. She also likes to make menus and take orders. Sometimes this is just pictures, but sometimes she does ask how to spell things. She likes to write down lyrics to her favorite songs. She draws a lot of family pictures or pictures of just one member of her family. If it is a family picture, we usually are all carrying something similar. One day I think it was a flower.
She does also like to pain with watercolors and draw with crayons or markers. I like how she doesn't always have to do one or the other. She likes to color in coloring books but also on blank pieces of paper.
Unfortunately, there is a significant problem that I did not see coming with this artistic ability. When Trevor was around 3, (it could have been earlier, I cannot remember exactly) I know he went through a phase where he wanted to draw/scribble on anything. Tables, walls, in books, etc. I knew I had to get him to understand where they belonged and did not belong. But he grew out of it and it didn't really happen again. So far, he never had any big issues with scissors either...cutting things he wasn't supposed to and the like. Now Gwen didn't really do that...the scribbling on stuff I mean. I guess it wasn't as though she NEVER did it. I know she liked to "paint" her fingernails with markers and sometimes the insides of her hands, and even the table occasionally but it wasn't anything really noteworthy. But within the past month, she has just gone crazy with the drawing on everything. I allow her to write whatever she wants on her calendar, because she has her own. She often asks for help spelling whatever she wants. Last month she copied her preschool calendar to write down which of her classmates had the sharing box....and then scribbled all over it. But now, she won't stop at her own. And she knows she isn't supposed to because she drew on one date of my calendar before I asked her to stop, and this month she drew a square around the month of my calendar without me seeing. Her calendar already has many small drawings all over it.
Our dining room wall has many pencil marks (and yes, I am thankful that almost all of the current markings that are going on are pencil so it could be much worse) including some drawings and letters. One day I let her take her journal up to her room during rest time, but I guess that was a mistake because her door, calendar and toy chest now are written on, all over. At least at her eye level. She must have so much to say and express....my little artist. But I'm really struggling with how much of it to keep. She doesn't seem to mind, as long as she doesn't see me recycling her papers. I do hope she continues the love of writing and drawing. But I guess what mother wouldn't.
Not the point...my point was that Gwen has become quite the little artist. I guess I was correct in saying that she really wanted paper for Christmas. Reams of it if she could. But she also likes notebooks, the smaller the better. She got a drawing pad as one of her gifts...80 pages. I gave it to her for a car ride and she is down to under 10 pages of unused pages. And she doesn't just make one thing...she makes a picture. Some of them are actually journal entries. Those are a little tough for me because while she is getting really good practice writing her letters, she isn't picking up on spelling. When she gets to Kindergarten, I'm glad they will be teaching brave spelling because she could really use that now. But now, she knows that words are made from letters, and she wants them to be correct so I am the one that has to spell everything out for her.
Some of her ideas of what to draw and then write out are: yes - its not too early to be thinking about her Christmas list! I guess she doesn't understand that she could also make her own birthday list, since her birthday comes before Christmas, but she likes to draw something out and then write what it is in case Santa can't tell. Ah, I will say that she now knows how to spell the word "doll" very well. Doesn't matter if it is an actual toy, any movie or TV character, she will draw a picture of them and say that it is a doll and then ask for it. She also likes to make menus and take orders. Sometimes this is just pictures, but sometimes she does ask how to spell things. She likes to write down lyrics to her favorite songs. She draws a lot of family pictures or pictures of just one member of her family. If it is a family picture, we usually are all carrying something similar. One day I think it was a flower.
She does also like to pain with watercolors and draw with crayons or markers. I like how she doesn't always have to do one or the other. She likes to color in coloring books but also on blank pieces of paper.
Unfortunately, there is a significant problem that I did not see coming with this artistic ability. When Trevor was around 3, (it could have been earlier, I cannot remember exactly) I know he went through a phase where he wanted to draw/scribble on anything. Tables, walls, in books, etc. I knew I had to get him to understand where they belonged and did not belong. But he grew out of it and it didn't really happen again. So far, he never had any big issues with scissors either...cutting things he wasn't supposed to and the like. Now Gwen didn't really do that...the scribbling on stuff I mean. I guess it wasn't as though she NEVER did it. I know she liked to "paint" her fingernails with markers and sometimes the insides of her hands, and even the table occasionally but it wasn't anything really noteworthy. But within the past month, she has just gone crazy with the drawing on everything. I allow her to write whatever she wants on her calendar, because she has her own. She often asks for help spelling whatever she wants. Last month she copied her preschool calendar to write down which of her classmates had the sharing box....and then scribbled all over it. But now, she won't stop at her own. And she knows she isn't supposed to because she drew on one date of my calendar before I asked her to stop, and this month she drew a square around the month of my calendar without me seeing. Her calendar already has many small drawings all over it.
Our dining room wall has many pencil marks (and yes, I am thankful that almost all of the current markings that are going on are pencil so it could be much worse) including some drawings and letters. One day I let her take her journal up to her room during rest time, but I guess that was a mistake because her door, calendar and toy chest now are written on, all over. At least at her eye level. She must have so much to say and express....my little artist. But I'm really struggling with how much of it to keep. She doesn't seem to mind, as long as she doesn't see me recycling her papers. I do hope she continues the love of writing and drawing. But I guess what mother wouldn't.
Quick post...another Trevor-ism
It has been so long since I can remember a Trevor-ism. I know it couldn't be so long as when we were at the Dells before Gwen was 6 months old with the introduction of "noitch" and "sadules". Maybe it is because he is reading so much more, that he gathers his vocabulary from words he reads, not ones he can create.
Anyway, Gwen has been out of sorts the last few days, probably because she is sick and she fell out of the booth at dinner tonight. She was very upset and wanted to go to the doctor, because she felt as though he could make it all better. She bumped her knee, but I don't even know that it will be a bruise. So we were leaving, and Russ said that he talked to the doctor and he prescribed ice cream to help her feel better. Trevor, of course, questioned Russ talking to a doctor, to which Russ said it was Dr. Dad that prescribed the ice cream.
"But dad, you can't be a doctor. You are a computerconcologist." (said computer-con-cologist) To Trevor, that is Russ's job title. I asked him where he came up with that one (also stating that Russ needed to get that printed on his business cards as his job title) and he explained that it is a job card in The Game of Life. We do have a relatively new game, not the same as the one that I used to play. But the job title for one of the careers is Russ's job: Computer Consultant.
I think I like Trevor's description better!
Anyway, Gwen has been out of sorts the last few days, probably because she is sick and she fell out of the booth at dinner tonight. She was very upset and wanted to go to the doctor, because she felt as though he could make it all better. She bumped her knee, but I don't even know that it will be a bruise. So we were leaving, and Russ said that he talked to the doctor and he prescribed ice cream to help her feel better. Trevor, of course, questioned Russ talking to a doctor, to which Russ said it was Dr. Dad that prescribed the ice cream.
"But dad, you can't be a doctor. You are a computerconcologist." (said computer-con-cologist) To Trevor, that is Russ's job title. I asked him where he came up with that one (also stating that Russ needed to get that printed on his business cards as his job title) and he explained that it is a job card in The Game of Life. We do have a relatively new game, not the same as the one that I used to play. But the job title for one of the careers is Russ's job: Computer Consultant.
I think I like Trevor's description better!
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
So Far, So Good
So we are halfway done with the kids' spring break, and I have to say I'm not as crazy as I thought it was going to make me. I love routines and knew that this week wasn't going to be a regular one. I wondered if we would get decent weather to be able to do things outside. I have a few errands to run, ones that I would rather the kids didn't have to tag along to, and it has worked out wonderfully so far.
I was very scared at first when the forecast was predicted to be wonderful: High 70s and sunny both days. And then Saturday was overcast and barely made it into the 50s. We had planned to be outdoors on Saturday, but that quickly changed and we changed gears to head to the Works museum, which we had never been to before. The kids loved it! I will have to bring them back on my own because Russ quickly tired of the few activities that he was interested in. I never mind letting them run off and play on their own as long as they are being safe, I can see them, and they have a fun time. Gwen could have spent all day in the block building area as she is my builder, and Trevor could have spent all his time at the pinewood derby race-like structure where you could build your own car and race it down a timed track. He is my racer. He made me chuckle because he was determined to prove that his one wheel would be the fastest thing out there, but Russ proved him wrong. He made a very well-designed car that speeded past his one wheel.
Sunday, we had a low key day with a piano lesson. It was a nicer day to be outside but it still didn't really start to get warm until well after lunchtime. Then the days of the break really started. Monday, we actually spend most of the day running to the airport to help some families out. And then went out to my parents place for dinner. Tuesday, I spent most of the day at the car dealership getting the car brought up on its maintenance. Today, I promised to bring the kids to a local park and they lasted a good hour and a half. It was as busy as I have ever seen it, especially since I was pretty sure there weren't any day care or school like field trips going on. I will say though that I was glad that my kids don't have to be helped through the maze of slides and climbing things around anymore. Trevor met up with a few people at school and Gwen found some friends to play with as well. Tomorrow the kids are going to my parents for the night so I can get some more cleaning and organizing done. Then we are on to the weekend.
Trevor's only real hope was that his break wasn't filled with lots of homework, and it hasn't been so I'm pretty sure it will be a success in his eyes. Gwen has been tired out as she got hit with a cold over the past few days so she has actually been napping. Her hearing has also gone again as a result of the cold. But I'm thankful there isn't snow on the ground, it hasn't been raining during the day, and the kids are getting the outdoor time that they need. So while not a usual spring break for us, it has been a nice break from the crazy routine and gearing up for the end of school. Can't blink now or you will miss it!
I was very scared at first when the forecast was predicted to be wonderful: High 70s and sunny both days. And then Saturday was overcast and barely made it into the 50s. We had planned to be outdoors on Saturday, but that quickly changed and we changed gears to head to the Works museum, which we had never been to before. The kids loved it! I will have to bring them back on my own because Russ quickly tired of the few activities that he was interested in. I never mind letting them run off and play on their own as long as they are being safe, I can see them, and they have a fun time. Gwen could have spent all day in the block building area as she is my builder, and Trevor could have spent all his time at the pinewood derby race-like structure where you could build your own car and race it down a timed track. He is my racer. He made me chuckle because he was determined to prove that his one wheel would be the fastest thing out there, but Russ proved him wrong. He made a very well-designed car that speeded past his one wheel.
Sunday, we had a low key day with a piano lesson. It was a nicer day to be outside but it still didn't really start to get warm until well after lunchtime. Then the days of the break really started. Monday, we actually spend most of the day running to the airport to help some families out. And then went out to my parents place for dinner. Tuesday, I spent most of the day at the car dealership getting the car brought up on its maintenance. Today, I promised to bring the kids to a local park and they lasted a good hour and a half. It was as busy as I have ever seen it, especially since I was pretty sure there weren't any day care or school like field trips going on. I will say though that I was glad that my kids don't have to be helped through the maze of slides and climbing things around anymore. Trevor met up with a few people at school and Gwen found some friends to play with as well. Tomorrow the kids are going to my parents for the night so I can get some more cleaning and organizing done. Then we are on to the weekend.
Trevor's only real hope was that his break wasn't filled with lots of homework, and it hasn't been so I'm pretty sure it will be a success in his eyes. Gwen has been tired out as she got hit with a cold over the past few days so she has actually been napping. Her hearing has also gone again as a result of the cold. But I'm thankful there isn't snow on the ground, it hasn't been raining during the day, and the kids are getting the outdoor time that they need. So while not a usual spring break for us, it has been a nice break from the crazy routine and gearing up for the end of school. Can't blink now or you will miss it!
Saturday, March 24, 2012
It is baseball season....here anyway
The Twins may still be another month away from the start of their season, but with the big thaw and days of 80 degrees already hitting here, our baseball season has started! I have tested the idea that the kids can safely play outside in the backyard for stretches of time, and it appears to be the case. I have no problem bringing them back inside where they do not prefer to be on beautiful days such as today.
But as soon as the snow is gone, and the sun warms up the air, Trevor goes into baseball mode. He would spend most of the day being pitched to, playing catch with, or imagining his own baseball game if he has a chance. And now, I even allow for Gwen to be a part of it, if they can find ways to not get into big fights. It can quickly go downhill if it has been too long (about 2 hours is the longest I've seen last), later in the day, hunger is setting in, or someone is in a bad mood to begin with. I also know enough not to allow anything harder than wiffle balls and foam bats, and so far that hasn't been an issue.
Of course Trevor has his 1,000 rules to which Gwen tries to stand her ground, but it appears as though being outside with Trevor outweighs the being inside playing by herself. Even Trevor does seem a little more agreeable if he knows it is a play or not play decision with her. Today, he was outside and wanted her to come and play baseball. He was calling to her to come and talk to him, and when she did, he explained he wanted to challenge her to a game of baseball. They could never be on the same team...at least I haven't heard of it yet. He is the Twins, and she should be the Red Sox. "But Trevor, I don't have red socks...see??? I have pink socks." Then, Trevor has to explain that you don't have to have red socks to be on the Red Sox team.
Or when she does let him call the game....he tells her that with her pitching, she drew a walk, so he tells her: "Yeah....I get to go to 1st base. That was 4 balls, its a walk."
"Trevor! You have to WALK. You aren't walking!!"
I wonder if this is something that she will enjoy doing or if she doesn't care enough to do it on her own. Only time will tell. But for now, I'm enjoying that the kids can be outside for at least a little while so I can get a few things done.
But as soon as the snow is gone, and the sun warms up the air, Trevor goes into baseball mode. He would spend most of the day being pitched to, playing catch with, or imagining his own baseball game if he has a chance. And now, I even allow for Gwen to be a part of it, if they can find ways to not get into big fights. It can quickly go downhill if it has been too long (about 2 hours is the longest I've seen last), later in the day, hunger is setting in, or someone is in a bad mood to begin with. I also know enough not to allow anything harder than wiffle balls and foam bats, and so far that hasn't been an issue.
Of course Trevor has his 1,000 rules to which Gwen tries to stand her ground, but it appears as though being outside with Trevor outweighs the being inside playing by herself. Even Trevor does seem a little more agreeable if he knows it is a play or not play decision with her. Today, he was outside and wanted her to come and play baseball. He was calling to her to come and talk to him, and when she did, he explained he wanted to challenge her to a game of baseball. They could never be on the same team...at least I haven't heard of it yet. He is the Twins, and she should be the Red Sox. "But Trevor, I don't have red socks...see??? I have pink socks." Then, Trevor has to explain that you don't have to have red socks to be on the Red Sox team.
Or when she does let him call the game....he tells her that with her pitching, she drew a walk, so he tells her: "Yeah....I get to go to 1st base. That was 4 balls, its a walk."
"Trevor! You have to WALK. You aren't walking!!"
I wonder if this is something that she will enjoy doing or if she doesn't care enough to do it on her own. Only time will tell. But for now, I'm enjoying that the kids can be outside for at least a little while so I can get a few things done.
Friday, March 16, 2012
We are back...
So much to do...to get caught up on. Thankfully, we now have a little break before we start having to think about baseball schedules being thrown into our mix. I have warned the kids that I am going to go on a "spring cleaning" turn this weekend and they are welcome to help me to earn money for a few of the toys they want (Trevor wants Sonic vs. Mario Summer Olympic Games and Gwen wants Lego Friends). I don't know that either kid cares THAT much about their toys but I guess we will see.
I guess I should make sure to mention that on our last morning of Disney, Trevor and I headed out for his last three rides of the trip. He mentioned he wanted to go on the Speedway and Buzz Lightyear ride again in Magic Kingdom. I had gotten an extra day free on our two passes, so we were there a few minutes after the park opened, went on those two rides plus the Astro Orbiter since he didn't get to go on that one and then headed back. It was a beautiful day to leave, and except for a few small hiccups we made it home, actually earlier than scheduled.
Gwen decided that she wanted to go to her dance class that evening at 6:30 even though we strolled into the house at 5:00 and had absolutely no food to eat in the house. So I scrounged around and decided to make some crescent rolls, apples and cheese and crackers for her dinner. I couldn't tolerate leaving the house again, especially for some kind of prepared food since that is what we had been eating all week. Gwen was in a surprisingly good mood and listening to me well enough to be able to go to dance and did very well! I was glad she was able to dance herself out of any cooped up feelings she had during our travels that day.
Trevor got to go back to school on Tuesday and Gwen and I really just hung around that day. I was doing laundry non-stop as Russ had to leave to go back to Florida for a golf event that evening. I also had a PTA meeting that same evening so the poor kids had to make do with sandwiches for dinner until I went to the grocery store on Wednesday. Here we are now on Friday and I finally feel like things are slowly coming together. All caught up on laundry, immediate meetings and such are taken care of, I am assembling our photopass pictures....250+ from photopass directly, I'd say we did good! Then there are over 350 pictures between Vicky and my camera! My plan is to edit a bunch, make a photo book out of a good chunk and print off a select few for Gwen's autograph book. I don't know if I can get to the point of ordering the CD this weekend, but it should be shortly.
Both kids have had a little trouble at school getting back into the swing of things, but I will say that the weather that I decided to bring back from Florida has been AWESOME! It looks like there will be a string of 80 degree days here and who would have ever guessed that we would see 80 degrees when it is still technically WINTER??!?!? I really would like to break out the sprinkler tomorrow and get a few pictures of the kids in it just so I can say that we did this in the winter. It is absolutely crazy!
So we have two weeks of school left before the real spring break and hopefully we will have enough to do until then. Trevor should be all caught up on his school work...I think...but still is having a lot to do just in terms of regular homework.
For now, we are back to our "normal". It was sort of funny as Gwen keeps talking about the next time she will get her princess makeover. I have already said it will be at least 3 years, probably another 4 before we go back. Trevor wants to make sure we don't pull another one over on him so he started giving me the look and the questions about when are we REALLY going to go back. Guess we won't ever get to pull another trick like this one again.
I guess I should make sure to mention that on our last morning of Disney, Trevor and I headed out for his last three rides of the trip. He mentioned he wanted to go on the Speedway and Buzz Lightyear ride again in Magic Kingdom. I had gotten an extra day free on our two passes, so we were there a few minutes after the park opened, went on those two rides plus the Astro Orbiter since he didn't get to go on that one and then headed back. It was a beautiful day to leave, and except for a few small hiccups we made it home, actually earlier than scheduled.
Gwen decided that she wanted to go to her dance class that evening at 6:30 even though we strolled into the house at 5:00 and had absolutely no food to eat in the house. So I scrounged around and decided to make some crescent rolls, apples and cheese and crackers for her dinner. I couldn't tolerate leaving the house again, especially for some kind of prepared food since that is what we had been eating all week. Gwen was in a surprisingly good mood and listening to me well enough to be able to go to dance and did very well! I was glad she was able to dance herself out of any cooped up feelings she had during our travels that day.
Trevor got to go back to school on Tuesday and Gwen and I really just hung around that day. I was doing laundry non-stop as Russ had to leave to go back to Florida for a golf event that evening. I also had a PTA meeting that same evening so the poor kids had to make do with sandwiches for dinner until I went to the grocery store on Wednesday. Here we are now on Friday and I finally feel like things are slowly coming together. All caught up on laundry, immediate meetings and such are taken care of, I am assembling our photopass pictures....250+ from photopass directly, I'd say we did good! Then there are over 350 pictures between Vicky and my camera! My plan is to edit a bunch, make a photo book out of a good chunk and print off a select few for Gwen's autograph book. I don't know if I can get to the point of ordering the CD this weekend, but it should be shortly.
Both kids have had a little trouble at school getting back into the swing of things, but I will say that the weather that I decided to bring back from Florida has been AWESOME! It looks like there will be a string of 80 degree days here and who would have ever guessed that we would see 80 degrees when it is still technically WINTER??!?!? I really would like to break out the sprinkler tomorrow and get a few pictures of the kids in it just so I can say that we did this in the winter. It is absolutely crazy!
So we have two weeks of school left before the real spring break and hopefully we will have enough to do until then. Trevor should be all caught up on his school work...I think...but still is having a lot to do just in terms of regular homework.
For now, we are back to our "normal". It was sort of funny as Gwen keeps talking about the next time she will get her princess makeover. I have already said it will be at least 3 years, probably another 4 before we go back. Trevor wants to make sure we don't pull another one over on him so he started giving me the look and the questions about when are we REALLY going to go back. Guess we won't ever get to pull another trick like this one again.
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