There's Southwest Pasta Soup simmering on the stove (and it smells AMAZING), boxes are accumulating...and so is the dirt. Things are getting done, though, so I'm actually okay with the mess (at the moment). I can take care of it after next Saturday.
Laundry is getting done...maybe I'll get caught back up, tonight even! Then, all but what we need for the next week is getting put into boxes...maybe. Maybe I'll just put it away in dresser drawers and move those! (Then it'll all be put away when it gets to the new house, haha!)
The three "big" kids are playing outside. Inside, they have to be quiet, but outside, they can be as loud as they want. I'm trying to be okay with the mindless yelling I hear, even now; kids need an outlet, too...and hopefully, our neighbors will be gracious...or gone...or deaf. :)
Tomorrow is Sunday, the day of rest! It will be wonderful to take a little break from the moving chaos to just fellowship and enjoy being together as a family.
Thank you again to those of you who are faithfully praying for us! The Lord is seeing us through. :)
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Moving Update...Again.
There have been some changes:1. TMO (the moving office) here gave us some bad information and we are NOT actually entitled to one local move (unless it generated housing orders...i.e. moving off-base to on-base or the other way around...and ours did not.) No, they didn't call to let us know; and yes, they DID authorize our move (both verbally over the phone and again in the office, where they even ASSISTED in getting the appropriate paperwork filled out.) We found out yesterday morning after we called them to verify dates. (Again.) Surprise!
But God was not surprised...which is no surprise! He is continuing to provide everything we need, stretching me in how I trust Him, and gently rebuking me when I fly into Panic Mode...and then encouraging me to get back up, and keep on keepin' on. It's all going to be fine. *deep breath* Feel free to hold me accountable when my attitude is all wrong. (Even if that means right now...) :)
It should be noted, to be fair, that this is the regulation; we, arguably, should have known. (And 
honestly, we suspected...a month ago...which is why we called them to ask!) The really frustrating part is that it's their job to know these things; and they had several opportunities to point out the mistake; additionally, they never tried to contact us to point out that the request for a carrier had been denied, AND they were completely inaccessible to us for the whole last week. (The office was closed and no one was answering the phones.) According to Sgt. So-and-So, this is because there was an exercise going on (which Scott was also a part of); I'm not sure why that means they're not accountable (hm...think that excuse would fly with other jobs?!), but whatever.
honestly, we suspected...a month ago...which is why we called them to ask!) The really frustrating part is that it's their job to know these things; and they had several opportunities to point out the mistake; additionally, they never tried to contact us to point out that the request for a carrier had been denied, AND they were completely inaccessible to us for the whole last week. (The office was closed and no one was answering the phones.) According to Sgt. So-and-So, this is because there was an exercise going on (which Scott was also a part of); I'm not sure why that means they're not accountable (hm...think that excuse would fly with other jobs?!), but whatever.2. Scott's shop allowed him to take leave for the next week, which is HUGE. This means that most of the little things that I don't know how to do or where to start...or CAN'T do due to pregnancy limitations (like, say, taking apart/organizing/packing the garage) doesn't rest exclusively on my shoulders. It means that we can "divide and conquer," and it's one way the Lord is allowing me to see (rather than just ambiguously know) that things are going to work out.
3. The girls will transfer to their new school on March 7th. Scott will also be TDY that week...BUT, at least when the news dropped yesterday, they didn't inform him he'd be leaving tomorrow! (I wonder if I would've just dug a hole and thrown myself in if that had happened? Probably not, but it would've been a temptation.) I can deal with unpacking (and maybe even have things looking and functioning like home by the time he gets back.)
4. We have an amazing church and so many friends who are willing to drop everything to help out when we need them. What a blessing!! Just knowing there are so many people I can call if I need to (or when I need to) intermediately solves a lot of my planning unknowns and allows me to focus on the things I need to take care of now.
------------------------------------------------
We got into the new house yesterday and I was able to start some cleaning while Scott ferried a few things over that we already had ready to go. Since it's a new house and they're not done working on everything yet, I didn't get as much done as I'd hoped to (I mean, there's not much sense wiping out cabinets when the shelves aren't installed yet...or dusting when they're still sanding in the same room), BUT we got started at least at could see where we need to focus our efforts for today. I'll continue to post as I'm able...I'm not sure how regular/often that will be for the next week or so.
As with this whole situation, we covet your prayers. Thanks!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Lacking? Nope.
One more week until moving day. I'm so ready...and so not ready...all at the same time.
I'm ready to get on with things. I hate the pre-moving clutter and the feeling like nothing has a real "home," like we're stuck in limbo. I'm ready to get settled, get organized, and finally feel like it's okay to rest and relax. Plus, I have lots of ideas for the new place, and I'm anxious to get busy making the vision a reality. :)
I'm not ready because this move signals the beginning of so many other changes, none of which I feel prepared for. Sometimes, peace isn't too much of a battle; other times, though, it's almost like I need to tattoo the truth of God's constant and reliable provision into/onto my brain...or maybe someplace I see a little more often. I'm not prepared or equipped to handle anything that's coming, but God will equip me perfectly to handle each moment as it comes. Remembering that is hard.
See, people (I) look at situations and want to choose people who are equipped to handle them; God knows the situations and the people, and chooses those He wants to equip.
That's a comforting realization to me. I'm probably the last person I would've picked to walk the path I'm on, not just because it's scary and unknown, but because I'm so weak, so fickle, so prone to stress out, panic, and...maybe even fail. Other people I know, (though I wouldn't wish this on anyone), are just so much stronger...in virtually every sense of the word. They are more confident, more...prepared! (Or at least, they seem to be.) For whatever reason, though, God has chosen wimpy ol' me; it's overwhelming and frightening, but maybe that's the very reason His glory will shine; maybe that's at least part of why it's best that it's me (us) this time around.
I don't really know. (Don't let me fool you!)
I do know, however, that He's there all. the. time. He has not, and will not, leave me alone. He has already provided so much beyond what I actually need. I try so hard to mask some of the desires in my heart because, ultimately, eternally, they seem so frivolous. Why would an omnipotent, omniscient, perfect God grant such selfish hopes...especially when I can even see that desiring such things is my heart's attempt to find security in the temporal stuff rather than in the One who determines security?! The only reasonable conclusion is that He loves me so much that He wants to ease my fears; He delights to be the One to reassuringly wipe my tears away and present me with good gifts.
It's a beautiful thing.
And it's one way, however small it might seem, that He's teaching me how to be glad I'm on the path He's chosen for me. (It still isn't FUN, mind you.) It's one way to hold my hand, assisting me in another baby step toward joy in whatever He asks of me. I'm definitely not there (yet?), but I can start to see the pleasure that comes from being made able to stand...versus the delusion that such an ability already exists within my character or my efforts.
"...but on my own behalf I will not boast, except of my weaknesses. Though if I should wish to boast, I would not be a fool, for I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me. So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:5b-10, ESV)
I'm ready to get on with things. I hate the pre-moving clutter and the feeling like nothing has a real "home," like we're stuck in limbo. I'm ready to get settled, get organized, and finally feel like it's okay to rest and relax. Plus, I have lots of ideas for the new place, and I'm anxious to get busy making the vision a reality. :)
I'm not ready because this move signals the beginning of so many other changes, none of which I feel prepared for. Sometimes, peace isn't too much of a battle; other times, though, it's almost like I need to tattoo the truth of God's constant and reliable provision into/onto my brain...or maybe someplace I see a little more often. I'm not prepared or equipped to handle anything that's coming, but God will equip me perfectly to handle each moment as it comes. Remembering that is hard.
See, people (I) look at situations and want to choose people who are equipped to handle them; God knows the situations and the people, and chooses those He wants to equip.
That's a comforting realization to me. I'm probably the last person I would've picked to walk the path I'm on, not just because it's scary and unknown, but because I'm so weak, so fickle, so prone to stress out, panic, and...maybe even fail. Other people I know, (though I wouldn't wish this on anyone), are just so much stronger...in virtually every sense of the word. They are more confident, more...prepared! (Or at least, they seem to be.) For whatever reason, though, God has chosen wimpy ol' me; it's overwhelming and frightening, but maybe that's the very reason His glory will shine; maybe that's at least part of why it's best that it's me (us) this time around.
I don't really know. (Don't let me fool you!)
I do know, however, that He's there all. the. time. He has not, and will not, leave me alone. He has already provided so much beyond what I actually need. I try so hard to mask some of the desires in my heart because, ultimately, eternally, they seem so frivolous. Why would an omnipotent, omniscient, perfect God grant such selfish hopes...especially when I can even see that desiring such things is my heart's attempt to find security in the temporal stuff rather than in the One who determines security?! The only reasonable conclusion is that He loves me so much that He wants to ease my fears; He delights to be the One to reassuringly wipe my tears away and present me with good gifts.
It's a beautiful thing.
And it's one way, however small it might seem, that He's teaching me how to be glad I'm on the path He's chosen for me. (It still isn't FUN, mind you.) It's one way to hold my hand, assisting me in another baby step toward joy in whatever He asks of me. I'm definitely not there (yet?), but I can start to see the pleasure that comes from being made able to stand...versus the delusion that such an ability already exists within my character or my efforts.
"...but on my own behalf I will not boast, except of my weaknesses. Though if I should wish to boast, I would not be a fool, for I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me. So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:5b-10, ESV)
Soli Deo gloria!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
IKEA!
I've been hearing people talk about the wonders of IKEA for a long time now, always figuring they must fit into the "shop-a-holic" (a.k.a. "typical girl") category, which I've never considered myself to be a part of. However, after going for the first time this weekend, I find myself wondering if heaven has a special section, reserved just for people like me, that is EXACTLY like that store!Seriously, there may have actually been a beam of angelic light accompanied by the Hallelujah Chorus as we rose on the escalator, bringing the corridors of organizational amazement into view.
In all honesty, I'm glad we don't have one closer to us because it would probably be too big a temptation to resist. I'd buy everything, plunging us into debt. It's so...ORGANIZED! I'm sure I could find a use for nearly every single cabinet, shelving system, and box that I saw.
And with that, IKEA (it is correct to have it all in caps, right?) has officially bumped The Container Store out of my heart...I only have room there for one retailer, after all. :)
Friday, February 18, 2011
I Need a System
Nearly every day, the girls bring home a stack of school papers, projects, and/or artwork. I'll admit that I don't keep EVERYthing, but some stuff just shows their development or progress so well, it has to be saved.
Maybe forever.
And ever.
But what do I DO with it all?? Eventually, it gets "filed" (term used loosely) in a big box where I probably won't look at it again until they leave the nest and I'm a blubbering, baby-less ninny, reminiscing over the good ol' days when they were in grade school making me cards, delighting in some very creative spelling, and stamping handprints. *sigh* I can't access the box super easily, however, which means that for weeks or months at a time, it just piles up.
Like on a table in the livingroom.
Or a nook in the office.
And it bothers me. A lot. A LOT!!!
And it bothers me. A lot. A LOT!!!I need a system! Any ideas??
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
A Kindle Story
Once upon a time, a fair young lady had a birthday. Her dashing frog prince, er, husband spoiled her rotten and bought her a beautiful graphite Kindle DX.
The lady was stunned and intimidated by the glimmering piece of electronic awesomeness sitting before her, but she timidly charged it and learned how to navigate its extremely user-friendly capabilities. It was a little large for her dainty hands, but she was exceedingly grateful for such portable accessibility to so many books; and she loved the Kindle all the more because it was from her dear prince.
One day, as the prince, who was also a knight in shining armor, was preparing to assist in a battle far, far away, the lady had an epiphany: perhaps her beloved knight-prince would also enjoy a kindle! During a romantic candle-lit conversation a few days later, the prince also mentioned that such an amenity would be, well, convenient. That settled it, and the two began to explore what size and design might be the most suitable.
It soon became clear that the prince, ever seeking to progress in academia and enjoying the perusal of various periodical media, would be perfectly matched with a DX. Plus, his large, strong, knightly hands could easily manage the slightly more cumbersome size. The couple had a brilliant plan: the prince could commandeer the birthday-gifted DX, and the fair lady could obtain a smaller, more portable electronic reader...perhaps the Kindle 3! The two were overjoyed.
And the fair lady soon became wildly obsessed with accessorizing.
The End.
So tell me, dear fellow Kindle-owners: what have you found to be the best (or worst) cases and covers out there? I am completely overwhelmed by the number of choices. Leather? Not leather? Zip-up, or no? Book-like opening, or flip open on either the top or bottom? Built in light??? What travels the best (when stuffed in a purse or diaper bag...or suitcase)? Any and all input would be appreciated.
Much thanks!!
The lady was stunned and intimidated by the glimmering piece of electronic awesomeness sitting before her, but she timidly charged it and learned how to navigate its extremely user-friendly capabilities. It was a little large for her dainty hands, but she was exceedingly grateful for such portable accessibility to so many books; and she loved the Kindle all the more because it was from her dear prince.
One day, as the prince, who was also a knight in shining armor, was preparing to assist in a battle far, far away, the lady had an epiphany: perhaps her beloved knight-prince would also enjoy a kindle! During a romantic candle-lit conversation a few days later, the prince also mentioned that such an amenity would be, well, convenient. That settled it, and the two began to explore what size and design might be the most suitable.
It soon became clear that the prince, ever seeking to progress in academia and enjoying the perusal of various periodical media, would be perfectly matched with a DX. Plus, his large, strong, knightly hands could easily manage the slightly more cumbersome size. The couple had a brilliant plan: the prince could commandeer the birthday-gifted DX, and the fair lady could obtain a smaller, more portable electronic reader...perhaps the Kindle 3! The two were overjoyed.
And the fair lady soon became wildly obsessed with accessorizing.
The End.
So tell me, dear fellow Kindle-owners: what have you found to be the best (or worst) cases and covers out there? I am completely overwhelmed by the number of choices. Leather? Not leather? Zip-up, or no? Book-like opening, or flip open on either the top or bottom? Built in light??? What travels the best (when stuffed in a purse or diaper bag...or suitcase)? Any and all input would be appreciated.
Much thanks!!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
"Keep Moving Forward!"
It might be a sign you (read, "I") watch too many kids' movies when you randomly start quoting them during everyday moments around the house.
Disney's "Meet the Robinsons" is very...quotable. I frequently find myself mimicking the T. Rex, "I have a big head...and little arms, and I just don't think this plan was very well thought out"....or randomly poking my head into a room and screaming (which makes the kids crack up), imitating Lucille on the caffeine patch. (Clearly, you need to see the movie.)
But today, I've been encouraged to see more progress being made and to have a better vision for what I need to do. I'm feeling like the tasks I'm trying to tackle ARE more thought out. (You know, sometimes it can be hard at the beginning of a daunting task to break it down into accomplishable steps; that's when it's easiest to get overwhelmed, when you can't see "taking one thing at a time" clearly.) Things are falling into place as we continue to prepare for our move. I'm taking more frequent breaks, which forces me to plan ahead more specifically and break things up; and, I'm willing myself to abandon all the "silly" organizing (like matching the girls shoes in their shoe sorter, or arranging them by style/color, or segregating M&Ms by color...) until we get into the new house. At least. :)
“Around here, however, we don’t look backwards for very long. We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things… and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”
–Walt Disney
Disney's "Meet the Robinsons" is very...quotable. I frequently find myself mimicking the T. Rex, "I have a big head...and little arms, and I just don't think this plan was very well thought out"....or randomly poking my head into a room and screaming (which makes the kids crack up), imitating Lucille on the caffeine patch. (Clearly, you need to see the movie.)
But today, I've been encouraged to see more progress being made and to have a better vision for what I need to do. I'm feeling like the tasks I'm trying to tackle ARE more thought out. (You know, sometimes it can be hard at the beginning of a daunting task to break it down into accomplishable steps; that's when it's easiest to get overwhelmed, when you can't see "taking one thing at a time" clearly.) Things are falling into place as we continue to prepare for our move. I'm taking more frequent breaks, which forces me to plan ahead more specifically and break things up; and, I'm willing myself to abandon all the "silly" organizing (like matching the girls shoes in their shoe sorter, or arranging them by style/color, or segregating M&Ms by color...) until we get into the new house. At least. :)AND going through everything is making me excited to set up our new home! It's just fun to picture where things are going to be and how it's all going to function (theoretically at least), but it also makes me a little impatient. I want to hurry up and just get there already! Yet, I don't want time to speed up because the deployment begins only a month-ish after the move...good thing I have no control over time. :)
Additionally, Scott's shop moved back to 8-hour shifts (at least for now), so he's back on 2nd shift, intermittently spattered with day-shift days. (He took his test for Master today and PT tests tomorrow, so he's on a modified day shift both days! What an answer to prayer!) This is WAY more manageable; you'd think after years of practice with night shift in Wichita Falls that we'd be pros. Nope. I'm constantly pinging as I try to make sure the kids are silent (yeah, you try to keep 4 little kids from making ANY noise) while still trying to do all the things I need to do, and Scott doesn't sleep as soundly during the day anyway, so even little noises...like walking through the kitchen with shoes on...wake him up. Maybe it's that way with everyone; it's not usually too hard to pick out someone who's working that shift: bloodshot eyes, zombie-like stare, pale face with dark circles under their eyes...it's just not natural. But I digress...
Anyway, my motto today is to just keep moving forward. 
No looking back or going down all the various bunny trails of options we might have chosen, no getting distracted by stupid details that won't make a bit of difference once things are thrown into boxes, no weepy meltdowns when I can't see how things are going to get done...well, okay, that last one especially is probably a work in progress...but trusting that things are going to fall into place exactly as they need to, and knowing that One is watching over us, providing for us perfectly, protecting us.
No looking back or going down all the various bunny trails of options we might have chosen, no getting distracted by stupid details that won't make a bit of difference once things are thrown into boxes, no weepy meltdowns when I can't see how things are going to get done...well, okay, that last one especially is probably a work in progress...but trusting that things are going to fall into place exactly as they need to, and knowing that One is watching over us, providing for us perfectly, protecting us. He is trustworthy.
Unless we hear otherwise, movers will be coming on March 3rd to pack and March 4th to take everything to the new place! I'll keep y'all updated! :)
Unless we hear otherwise, movers will be coming on March 3rd to pack and March 4th to take everything to the new place! I'll keep y'all updated! :)
And with that, break time is over. Have a great day, everyone!
“Around here, however, we don’t look backwards for very long. We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things… and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”
–Walt Disney
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Sunday Surprises
Scott got to go to church with us again this morning...for the second Sunday in a row!! We didn't think it was going to happen. The exercise on base has had everyone on 12 hour shifts, working through weekends, so it didn't see possible. However, Scott got to come home at 4:00 this morning, announcing that (at least for now) they're back to 8-hour shifts, and that he didn't have to be back at work till 3 this afternoon. I automatically assumed that this meant he'd try to sleep from 4 till whenever he needed to start getting ready for work again. As it turns out, though, my best efforts to keep the kids quiet this morning (and they weren't being loud...they were even speaking in very hushed voices and doing their best to keep their loud dress shoes from clacking too noisily on our hard floors) just weren't good enough to facilitate daytime sleep. Scott woke up for good around 8:30 and decided, since we didn't have to leave here until around 9, that he had just enough time to get ready and go with us!! What a surprise and treat!
We even managed to make it [mostly] on time; since we have kids to drop off, we missed the opening prayer time, but I guess that's still pretty good, considering! It's just wonderful (and refreshing, and sweet...) to get to have ALL of us at church together; it's certainly a blessing I don't take for granted!
In other news, however, the girls got themselves into a fair amount of trouble while waiting on lunch. They had gone out front with Ian to play (ride bikes or scooters and play in the remaining snow); the problem is that their snowball fight shifted from hitting each other with snowballs to trying to hit cars with them as they drove past! NOT GOOD! Part of me is almost hoping that at least one of the drivers comes over to complain so the girls can apologize, but realistically, I doubt that will happen. Instead, a lengthy lecture about considering consequences and thinking things through ensued, and they're both prohibited from playing games (or watching movies) or going outside for the rest of the day...and they have some assigned reading to complete (and orally review) with me this afternoon. Never a dull moment, I tell you, but hopefully they've learned their lesson. :)
We even managed to make it [mostly] on time; since we have kids to drop off, we missed the opening prayer time, but I guess that's still pretty good, considering! It's just wonderful (and refreshing, and sweet...) to get to have ALL of us at church together; it's certainly a blessing I don't take for granted!
In other news, however, the girls got themselves into a fair amount of trouble while waiting on lunch. They had gone out front with Ian to play (ride bikes or scooters and play in the remaining snow); the problem is that their snowball fight shifted from hitting each other with snowballs to trying to hit cars with them as they drove past! NOT GOOD! Part of me is almost hoping that at least one of the drivers comes over to complain so the girls can apologize, but realistically, I doubt that will happen. Instead, a lengthy lecture about considering consequences and thinking things through ensued, and they're both prohibited from playing games (or watching movies) or going outside for the rest of the day...and they have some assigned reading to complete (and orally review) with me this afternoon. Never a dull moment, I tell you, but hopefully they've learned their lesson. :)
Friday, February 11, 2011
Friday Night
The girls are spending the night at a friend's house tonight...one last hurrah, so to speak, before she moves to Texas next week. I've already seen a few pictures of their festivities (thanks, Elaina!), and they look like they're having a WONDERFUL time! :)
Due to the exercise, Scott moved back to night shift tonight, 12-hour shifts, through weekends and everything. He was able to catch a few hours of sleep this afternoon, but the first night on a new schedule/sleep schedule has gotta be hard. (You'd never know, though...he doesn't complain.)
So, those things combined, I had a full afternoon and evening almost exclusively alone with my boys. We watched "Wonder Pets," danced to some music on Pandora (silly!!), and after Collin went to bed, I got to play Ian's new Toy Story memory game with him. He did really well...ending with 15 matches in his possession. And it was awesome to have some sweet, mellow, one-on-one with my oldest lil' man. :)
Now, he's asleep too, so I'm blogging. (Obviously.)
There is a moving update: for the last couple of days (maybe just day and a half), we've been reconsidering our options--DitY move vs. having movers pack and move us. Okay, okay...basically it started out with me successfully overdoing it (unintentionally) without really even doing that much. I'm not sure what the deal is, really, other than the fact I'm not as physically fit as I was before the Great Morning Sickness Fiasco of November-January. Whether that's really the reason behind my extra-easy-to-fatigue muscles and joints, or whether it's all just a normal byproduct of pregnancy (or this many pregnancies), I don't really know. But considering how little Scott will be available and the amount of stuff (in addition to the normal cleaning, cooking, and tending of our family) needing to be accomplished in the next three weeks, it's a pretty tall order. Additionally, we have somewhere between 7 and 11 weeks before Scott deploys, and he mentioned not wanting moving preparations to eat up the few moments together that we'll have; I heartily agree! So, while I feel rather wimpy and like I'm basically conceding defeat, I am be. yond. thankful for another potentially high-stress circumstance providentially crossed off the list. Hallelujah!
Without a doubt, the best thing about this decision is my husband...and the way he handled it all. I've done a fair amount of venting my fears here on the blog (sorry and thank you, all combined), and I know he's not oblivious to those feelings. However, he has the "advantage" of getting the whole, unabridged me, and he knows well the stubborn determination that will plow through whatever hurdles our way. He knows the momentary overwhelmed tears are just that: momentary. And he knows, as well or better than I do, that somehow, everything always works out and gets done. He knows my tendency to wallow in guilt, too, when plans have to be changed because of me (even if it just feels or seems that way in my own mind), and his decisive leadership throughout ALL these move-related quandaries has allowed me to keep moving forward in peace, without second-guessing. Being freed of such worries is just one of the many ways he cares for and protects me. Isn't he amazing!?! I am sooo blessed!
So, all that said, TMO was briefly consulted via phone today, and the official arrangements will be made on Monday, Lord willing. For all my wonderful local peeps, I will keep you posted on the ever-evolving "plan," and I reallyreallyreally appreciate your flexibility and offers of help. Thank you!
Due to the exercise, Scott moved back to night shift tonight, 12-hour shifts, through weekends and everything. He was able to catch a few hours of sleep this afternoon, but the first night on a new schedule/sleep schedule has gotta be hard. (You'd never know, though...he doesn't complain.)
So, those things combined, I had a full afternoon and evening almost exclusively alone with my boys. We watched "Wonder Pets," danced to some music on Pandora (silly!!), and after Collin went to bed, I got to play Ian's new Toy Story memory game with him. He did really well...ending with 15 matches in his possession. And it was awesome to have some sweet, mellow, one-on-one with my oldest lil' man. :)
Now, he's asleep too, so I'm blogging. (Obviously.)
There is a moving update: for the last couple of days (maybe just day and a half), we've been reconsidering our options--DitY move vs. having movers pack and move us. Okay, okay...basically it started out with me successfully overdoing it (unintentionally) without really even doing that much. I'm not sure what the deal is, really, other than the fact I'm not as physically fit as I was before the Great Morning Sickness Fiasco of November-January. Whether that's really the reason behind my extra-easy-to-fatigue muscles and joints, or whether it's all just a normal byproduct of pregnancy (or this many pregnancies), I don't really know. But considering how little Scott will be available and the amount of stuff (in addition to the normal cleaning, cooking, and tending of our family) needing to be accomplished in the next three weeks, it's a pretty tall order. Additionally, we have somewhere between 7 and 11 weeks before Scott deploys, and he mentioned not wanting moving preparations to eat up the few moments together that we'll have; I heartily agree! So, while I feel rather wimpy and like I'm basically conceding defeat, I am be. yond. thankful for another potentially high-stress circumstance providentially crossed off the list. Hallelujah!
Without a doubt, the best thing about this decision is my husband...and the way he handled it all. I've done a fair amount of venting my fears here on the blog (sorry and thank you, all combined), and I know he's not oblivious to those feelings. However, he has the "advantage" of getting the whole, unabridged me, and he knows well the stubborn determination that will plow through whatever hurdles our way. He knows the momentary overwhelmed tears are just that: momentary. And he knows, as well or better than I do, that somehow, everything always works out and gets done. He knows my tendency to wallow in guilt, too, when plans have to be changed because of me (even if it just feels or seems that way in my own mind), and his decisive leadership throughout ALL these move-related quandaries has allowed me to keep moving forward in peace, without second-guessing. Being freed of such worries is just one of the many ways he cares for and protects me. Isn't he amazing!?! I am sooo blessed!
So, all that said, TMO was briefly consulted via phone today, and the official arrangements will be made on Monday, Lord willing. For all my wonderful local peeps, I will keep you posted on the ever-evolving "plan," and I reallyreallyreally appreciate your flexibility and offers of help. Thank you!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Collin's Test Results
A few weeks ago, I'd asked for prayers for Collin via my Facebook profile. I never posted anything here because we really didn't have much information...just one main concerning symptom (which I won't expand on...ick!) The doctor was definitely interested in getting to the bottom of it, which I appreciated, and ordered a battery of bloodwork and an extensive ultrasound of all his abdominal organs. That was on a Tuesday, I believe, and they said we'd have results by the end of the week.
We didn't, though, and no human being with answers could be reached...
Then, last Friday, I got an automated call saying there was a message for Collin on the Patient Message Retrieval System...Tricare's (or McConnell's) alternative to having an actual person tell you what's going on. I called the number, but it wasn't recognizing Collin's "family member ID," so I couldn't retrieve the message...and the only people I could reach were unable to help.
I was assuming everything was okay because no further symptoms had developed, and the concerning one was continually improving...and surely, they would've called sooner if something had been wrong...but you never know. ANYWAY, I tried the automated system again today, and it worked:
Collin's X-ray was normal.
Only...he didn't have an x-ray. Hmmm...
Since ultrasounds and x-rays are both done in the radiology department, I'm assuming the computer just has one generic term for tests conducted there...maybe? And since we didn't get ANY information about his bloodwork, does that mean it all came back fine too?
The doctor is unreachable, the nurse hasn't returned my messages, and...well...obviously the appointment line personnel can't help.I'm going to just assume everything's okay...but ONLY because Collin seems totally back to normal now. Thank you to those of you who have been praying and who have inquired about him...I really appreciate it!
Isn't government-run healthcare wonderful and efficient?!
We didn't, though, and no human being with answers could be reached...
Then, last Friday, I got an automated call saying there was a message for Collin on the Patient Message Retrieval System...Tricare's (or McConnell's) alternative to having an actual person tell you what's going on. I called the number, but it wasn't recognizing Collin's "family member ID," so I couldn't retrieve the message...and the only people I could reach were unable to help.
I was assuming everything was okay because no further symptoms had developed, and the concerning one was continually improving...and surely, they would've called sooner if something had been wrong...but you never know. ANYWAY, I tried the automated system again today, and it worked:
Collin's X-ray was normal.
Only...he didn't have an x-ray. Hmmm...
Since ultrasounds and x-rays are both done in the radiology department, I'm assuming the computer just has one generic term for tests conducted there...maybe? And since we didn't get ANY information about his bloodwork, does that mean it all came back fine too?
The doctor is unreachable, the nurse hasn't returned my messages, and...well...obviously the appointment line personnel can't help.I'm going to just assume everything's okay...but ONLY because Collin seems totally back to normal now. Thank you to those of you who have been praying and who have inquired about him...I really appreciate it!
Isn't government-run healthcare wonderful and efficient?!
Snow Day!
I think we eventually got around 6 inches of snow (give or take a little) from Tuesday's storm. It's not the 8-12" that they upgraded the warning to, but it's within the bounds of the original advisory...so I guess I don't have to break up with the national weather service just yet. Haha!
The Derby Unified School District has a reputation of never cancelling school. Admittedly, they're not as quick to do so as the other school districts in the area (which I have mixed feelings about), but this year, they've actually called school off (rightly) quite a few times! Generally speaking, it's because of icy roads and abhorrent wind chills...like around -30! This time, however, it was actually a genuine snow day! We had enough accumulation (and it was still coming down into Tuesday night/Wednesday morning) that the plows/sanders just couldn't keep up, rendering many roads totally unsafe. I'm counting it as a "real snowfall" because it actually successfully covered all our grass!
Anyway, I posted a couple pictures of the kids "shoveling" the driveway yesterday. Their hearts were in the right place, but it was a big job for little people (and our very shoddy snow shovel), and so they really achieved little more than packing the snow into the driveway. It's okay...I suspected that would happen. :)
Soon after I took those pictures, they abandoned the driveway and moved on to the backyard to play. When Collin woke up and heard his siblings giggling and squealing outside, he wanted out, too. So, I bundled him up, grabbed the camera, and we headed out to join in the fun.
Emily dug a little cave/tunnel: 
Because the snow was just powder and not pack-able enough to build a snowman, Katy resorted to making snow angels:
Ian grabbed large handfuls and threw it up in the air to "make it snow." This soon became the happenin' game...Emily even got a snow shovel eventually to "make a blizzard."
Collin was surprisingly happy in the snow...most of the time. He didn't want ANY help walking through, and his first step alone resulted in an irrecoverable faceplant in the snow...little tush up in the air and everything. When I pulled him out, his face caked with snow, he just started giggling...totally unfazed by the cold!
Emily dug a little cave/tunnel: 
Because the snow was just powder and not pack-able enough to build a snowman, Katy resorted to making snow angels:
Ian grabbed large handfuls and threw it up in the air to "make it snow." This soon became the happenin' game...Emily even got a snow shovel eventually to "make a blizzard." Collin was surprisingly happy in the snow...most of the time. He didn't want ANY help walking through, and his first step alone resulted in an irrecoverable faceplant in the snow...little tush up in the air and everything. When I pulled him out, his face caked with snow, he just started giggling...totally unfazed by the cold!
And then he discovered that caking his mittens with snow followed by clapping his hands would result in snow flying everywhere. Fun game, apparently!
Once he was comfortable and had gained his "snow legs" (balance is tricky, you know), I left Emily in charge of making sure he didn't get stuck again, and I headed back to the driveway to make some progress on the shoveling. I got about halfway before I was discovered by my amazing neighbors, who finished the rest of the job for me!! (Thanks again, Teara and Billy!) I have to confess, after having to break for a few minutes to defrost my kids and get them set up (safely) in front of Dora the Explorer, I was already starting to feel the workout...maybe combined with my packing extravaganza from the morning. Yeeaahhh...I'm both out of shape and have stretched out abdominal muscles and ligaments; bad combination. (I'm really feeling it today, ha!)
And it was also going on 6:00...so coming inside made it possible to get dinner ready in a reasonable time frame as well! (My kids were definitely grateful, as their hot cocoa was already running low.)
I'm always amazed at the unexpected ways God provides, especially for the tasks where I don't even realize I need help. Thanks, friends!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Progress!
Nothing encourages overwhelmed spirits like recognizing progress. Sometimes this progress is simply in the form of internal growth; sometimes, it's more tangible...like in the form of piles of boxes or bare space in the middle of a room that was once wall-to-wall stuff!
I thought about posting some pictures of our basement right now, but I'm not for two main reasons: 1) I'm mildly embarrassed about the cluttered appearance, even though it actually is mostly organized (...or at least, I know how to find things and what the system is!), and 2) I finally sat back down, and I'm far too lazy to get back up, get the camera, upload pictures to the computer, and deal with blogger's image-loader.
Oh well. You're really not missing much. :)
While I finished up the kids playroom for today, the three eldest helped one another get bundled up to go outside (and I really should get pictures of them soon!) They're not exactly playing, though; they're shoveling the driveway and walk...they've been begging to do it! (Seriously! They actually complained when I made it sound like I was going to do it!) Already, they've poked their heads back inside twice to inform me that random neighbors have given them thumbs up and commented on what a great job they're doing...makes me smile.
Okay, so I did get up to take a picture of them....see?
'Sides, they were aching to show me how much progress they'd made, haha!
And then I decided to take a picture out our back window. This is the view from our deck:
'Sides, they were aching to show me how much progress they'd made, haha!And then I decided to take a picture out our back window. This is the view from our deck:
It's so pretty today! The sky is a clear frosty-looking blue, the sun is shining, the snow is sparkling, and the temperature is above zero!And, since I got up to get the camera anyway, I went ahead and snapped a few shots in the basement.
This closet, once FULL of school and craft stuff (and a small bookshelf), was completely emptied and cleaned, and is now a temporary staging spot for garage sale stuff:
This is the playroom, and on this end are the toys we're [mostly] keeping:
On the other end is stuff that's packed and ready. The top boxes aren't taped closed yet, as they still need some small, light-weight filler; and you can see part way into the office, too, which is still kind of taken apart...and then there are the glaring garbage bags on the right, ready to go out:
On the other end is stuff that's packed and ready. The top boxes aren't taped closed yet, as they still need some small, light-weight filler; and you can see part way into the office, too, which is still kind of taken apart...and then there are the glaring garbage bags on the right, ready to go out:But it's progress, y'all! The basement is probably the worst part of the house, as far as organizing and packing goes, so in another day (I think!), when it's basically finished, I think the whole project will seem a lot more doable. :)
(Other than the garage, maybe...but Scott's making that his project. Yay!)
And I hear Collin squirming now, so break time is over. Thanks for the encouragement and prayers! God is good, and we're gettin' there!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Dear Winter Storm Warning,
I think I love you.
Please dump the forecasted 8-12 inches and make Derby cancel school tomorrow...thanks!
XOXO,
Shannon
Please dump the forecasted 8-12 inches and make Derby cancel school tomorrow...thanks!
XOXO,
Shannon
I Am Vexed
Why am I vexed, you may wonder?
Let me tell you:
1. My superhero-rockstar-awesome-amazing husband has just gotten everything put into motion so we can complete our move before he deploys. (I am exceedingly grateful for this!) This allows us over three weeks to get everything organized and packed, and (since we are adaptable, industrious people) we formulated a [pretty great] plan which utilizes and maximizes our time together to that end. With Scott being on 2nd shift, this means we have from the time the girls head to school until about 2:00 each day to devote to said tasks. Awesome, right? Yes...until a gigantic exercise is scheduled that requires Scott to go to 12 hour shifts...at NIGHT...and on WEEKENDS...for x-number of weeks. This basically puts us back to the point of me having to figure out how to get us packed and moved without him, only our time frame has been reduced from three months to three weeks. Fabulous.
2. This schedule change also coincides with Scott's WAPS test and his PT test. (The tests are, naturally, during the day...after working 12 hours through the night.) Awesome.
3. This also wipes out Valentine's Day. Oh well, I guess.
4. That pretty much summarizes it. (You all know the rest because I've blog-vented about it before.)
Wichita would be a much lovelier place if we could share it with Scott. As it stands, however, my affection reservoir is running dry. I'm mad right now, and I hate everything.
Except chocolate.
The End.
UPDATE: Since writing this last night and getting some sleep, I'm feeling much better. Also, I'm trying this thing where I'm thankful for stuff and choosing (well, trying to choose) to dwell on that. (What a novel idea!) For example, Scott got to go to church with us this past Sunday...which hadn't happened since early October. That was uh-maze-ing! I guess I can look beyond the fact that we have no idea when that will happen again.
I'm also thankful that, regardless of the stress with this move and all the little kinks, it'll all be over soon, one way or another. I'm thankful that we've "only" been in this house for 2 years (and not even quite that), so many things are still organized from our last move and we haven't accumulated too much extra junk. Also, it's usually pretty surprising how much one person can get done with just a few hours of unbroken work time; one of my strengths (that doubles as a weakness sometimes) is that I'm pretty driven to complete tasks, especially when it comes to cleaning/organizing our house (sometimes to the detriment of other things). Maybe that focus will come in handy...
AND we still have the rest of this week to get things done (or at least started) that I need Scott for...heavy lifting, climbing ladders to get stuff down from high places, setting up the garage so I can sort garage sale items from boxes that are going with us, etc... :)
And finally, it's snowing! They're still saying 5-9 inches...we shall see! (OH! And miracle of miracles, I just saw the snow plow go down the street! Wonders never cease...)
Let me tell you:
1. My superhero-rockstar-awesome-amazing husband has just gotten everything put into motion so we can complete our move before he deploys. (I am exceedingly grateful for this!) This allows us over three weeks to get everything organized and packed, and (since we are adaptable, industrious people) we formulated a [pretty great] plan which utilizes and maximizes our time together to that end. With Scott being on 2nd shift, this means we have from the time the girls head to school until about 2:00 each day to devote to said tasks. Awesome, right? Yes...until a gigantic exercise is scheduled that requires Scott to go to 12 hour shifts...at NIGHT...and on WEEKENDS...for x-number of weeks. This basically puts us back to the point of me having to figure out how to get us packed and moved without him, only our time frame has been reduced from three months to three weeks. Fabulous.
2. This schedule change also coincides with Scott's WAPS test and his PT test. (The tests are, naturally, during the day...after working 12 hours through the night.) Awesome.
3. This also wipes out Valentine's Day. Oh well, I guess.
4. That pretty much summarizes it. (You all know the rest because I've blog-vented about it before.)
Wichita would be a much lovelier place if we could share it with Scott. As it stands, however, my affection reservoir is running dry. I'm mad right now, and I hate everything.
Except chocolate.
The End.
UPDATE: Since writing this last night and getting some sleep, I'm feeling much better. Also, I'm trying this thing where I'm thankful for stuff and choosing (well, trying to choose) to dwell on that. (What a novel idea!) For example, Scott got to go to church with us this past Sunday...which hadn't happened since early October. That was uh-maze-ing! I guess I can look beyond the fact that we have no idea when that will happen again.
I'm also thankful that, regardless of the stress with this move and all the little kinks, it'll all be over soon, one way or another. I'm thankful that we've "only" been in this house for 2 years (and not even quite that), so many things are still organized from our last move and we haven't accumulated too much extra junk. Also, it's usually pretty surprising how much one person can get done with just a few hours of unbroken work time; one of my strengths (that doubles as a weakness sometimes) is that I'm pretty driven to complete tasks, especially when it comes to cleaning/organizing our house (sometimes to the detriment of other things). Maybe that focus will come in handy...
AND we still have the rest of this week to get things done (or at least started) that I need Scott for...heavy lifting, climbing ladders to get stuff down from high places, setting up the garage so I can sort garage sale items from boxes that are going with us, etc... :)
And finally, it's snowing! They're still saying 5-9 inches...we shall see! (OH! And miracle of miracles, I just saw the snow plow go down the street! Wonders never cease...)
Monday, February 7, 2011
Dear Winter Weather Advisory,
Whenever you come my way, you lie to me! You promise inestimable snowdrifts, taunting my very soul, only to leave icy roads and hypothermia-inducing windchills instead. Each time, I vow never to trust you again; picking up the frozen, shattered remains of my heart is too painful a task to endure again...
But then you tickle my ears with more glistening forecasts. "Eight inches this time," you whisper seductively.
And I, longing to believe, gullibly rush back to you. I feverishly click 'refresh' on the radar map, just knowing that this time...surely this time...those bands of heavy snow are, indeed, headed my way. (...and not to Texas...again...right? Why must you taunt me so?!) But repeatedly and maliciously, you crush my dreams. I lived in Wichita Falls for five years...why? Why now, Winter Weather Advisory??
So here we are again. You have returned, promising more snow. "6-8 inches are possible..." Your words dangle like a juicy steak before a starving hound.
But I'm not sure I'll be coming back to you. Perhaps I'll barricade myself in the basement; I'll pack boxes and make sure every last iota of laundry is washed, folded, and properly re-drawered. Perhaps I'll sip a chai latte and contentedly munch freshly popped popcorn while watching a favorite movie...with the blinds closed so you can't tempt me! Perhaps I'll play the Toy Story Memory Game for over an hour without even glancing out the window!!
Or perhaps...perhaps I'll just wait patiently until tomorrow morning, check the weather, and reevaluate at that time.
But know THIS, oh Winter Weather Advisory:
You are this close (*holding thumb and index finger 1/32" apart*) to losing me forever! Choose your words carefully over the next 12-24 hours...
But then you tickle my ears with more glistening forecasts. "Eight inches this time," you whisper seductively.
And I, longing to believe, gullibly rush back to you. I feverishly click 'refresh' on the radar map, just knowing that this time...surely this time...those bands of heavy snow are, indeed, headed my way. (...and not to Texas...again...right? Why must you taunt me so?!) But repeatedly and maliciously, you crush my dreams. I lived in Wichita Falls for five years...why? Why now, Winter Weather Advisory??
So here we are again. You have returned, promising more snow. "6-8 inches are possible..." Your words dangle like a juicy steak before a starving hound.
But I'm not sure I'll be coming back to you. Perhaps I'll barricade myself in the basement; I'll pack boxes and make sure every last iota of laundry is washed, folded, and properly re-drawered. Perhaps I'll sip a chai latte and contentedly munch freshly popped popcorn while watching a favorite movie...with the blinds closed so you can't tempt me! Perhaps I'll play the Toy Story Memory Game for over an hour without even glancing out the window!!
Or perhaps...perhaps I'll just wait patiently until tomorrow morning, check the weather, and reevaluate at that time.
But know THIS, oh Winter Weather Advisory:
You are this close (*holding thumb and index finger 1/32" apart*) to losing me forever! Choose your words carefully over the next 12-24 hours...
~Shannon
Saturday, February 5, 2011
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