Dear Betty Crocker,
I am writing to complain about the instructions on your cake box.
They are not accurate. I did everything you asked of me. I even used egg "whites" as opposed to the whole egg. I used 1/3 cup oil and 1 and 1/4 cups water as directed. I beat the mixture on low for 30 seconds followed by 2 minutes on medium. I even set the timer as I am quite certain I have an attention span "issue".
I sprayed the pan with non stick cooking spray and sprinkled flour in both of the pans. In attempting to dump the cake over so I could make a beautiful layer cake...crumbs went...everywhere.
I realize we have had run ins before. I thought I would give you another chance Betty. Every single time...you let me down. The cake that shows on your box is false advertising. I have yet to make a cake that looks like your picture. Instead...I make something that looks like this.
This was to be a white layer cake with chocolate frosting for my Mother's Birthday. Look what you have done. You have crumbled my cake and my self esteem. I am fully in the know that I am not a cake baker. BUT THIS IS GETTING RIDICULOUS.
I am washing my hands of you Betty. The nice lady at the Dillon's Bakery is now making a cake for me. You should be ashamed of yourself. I am also writing the makers of PAM cooking spray, the flour company, and the makers of my NON STICK PANS.
Sincerely,
Amy
Referee of 3
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Friday, May 25, 2012
Noted
In this day and age, the handwritten note is a thing of the past. We send texts, emails, and contact people via facebook. The contact alone is special to someone. Getting on facebook on my birthday was so much fun. Message after message came through and made me smile all day. It is even amazing to me how one tech message can "outweigh" another. I think a lot about how even if I facebook a "Happy Birthday" or an "I'm thinking about you...and praying for you" message, I should go the extra mile and send a text. Not a phone call, not write a note...but text. Texting is something we can do very quickly. We jot down a little something and hit send. And then we are on our way. It doesn't take a lot of thought or time, and allows us to get back to "our" life as we see fit.
The discrepancy comes from this very gesture. Only taking a little time out of our lives to issue a "praying" or "thinking of you" isn't our best effort...and we know this. I am guilty of this completely. I am not saying in any way shape or form that a text or facebook message isn't sufficient. What I am asking is...is it the best you have to offer?
In this crazy life, we are running (not literally because that would be just nonsense) from place to place. We get up, we get ready, and we go. Only to return in time to throw our uniforms in the laundry, hit the bed, and start over tomorrow. Who has time for handwritten notes? Birthdays, Anniversaries, bad days, small accomplishments, big accomplishments...who has time to deal with these things? I have time only to browse facebook, issue a "praying for you" and move on.
Is that true?
Is that really all I have time for? Or is it all I am making time for? One of my friends recently had a baby. I sent text messages and facebook comments. But that was it. One of the most special times in her life, and I didn't even have time to write a card. The difference comes from the time that we put into writing something to someone. We slow down. We are forced to think...deeply...about what we want to say. I can type faster than I can talk, but when I write...everything slows down and I am able to cover everything that I want to express in a loving manner. Cards say...you and your situation mean enough for me to slow down.
One of my most treasured items is in a trunk in my basement. It is a card from my Grandma Katie. She always listened when something had me down. I would drive to Clearwater, Ks. and sit on her divan. (Divan meaning couch) She would first go to her fridge and get me a can of pop and some sort of treat, and then she would listen. She would let me talk, cry and then she'd hug me. And all was right in my world. After returning from her house, a few days later, I'd receive a card. A hand written note that said everything I needed to hear. She would underline the most important parts two and three times...and I was so touched. She died fifteen years ago. And I still read her card. I still study the lines of her handwriting. And it takes me to a place of comfort. She always just "got" me. Because of that note...I still have a piece of her with me.
I want that for my friends, my family, and my kids...I want them to not delete what I say to them for extra memory space on their phone. I want someone to look at how I wrote my feelings with love and find comfort in holding something tangible that I took the time to write.
I am as guilty as anyone of not taking the time. And it is my goal to slow down and show the people in my life how much I care.
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
P.S.-Today is a very special day! Coach's High School team is heading to state so wish us luck! Also keep Coach in your prayers as today is the day that his Dad went to be with Jesus so many years ago. Just extra prayers are always appreciated. Thanks!
Friday, May 18, 2012
One year ago today...
I was saying goodbye to my daycare kids....for the last time. I was so sad. Looking back, I wish I had emotionally prepared myself for that day better than I did. I had a new job, the summer off, and life was changing more than I thought it could at that point. Big was moving on to Middle School. MIDDLE SCHOOL. As we are almost through his first year, it has been as nerve wracking and exciting as I expected.
Two years ago...
Life was crazy. But not in comparison to how it is now. The last day of school was upon us, and Little and I said goodbye as my Middle went to his last day at Munson Primary and my Big was on his way to being the Big Kahuna at his school. We had no idea how his 5th grade year would introduce us to so many "new" things.
Three years ago...
My Little was even smaller. He was just 2 years old. Which meant dragging him to every ballgame around was somewhat of a chore. This summer we suffered many injuries at the ballpark...all from Little. It actually became a joke as to what would happen to him. He was very creative with his ouchies...and it almost did me in as a Mom. Big played real competitive baseball and we followed his team all over Kansas. We won a few, lost a lot, and learned right way that this was going to be our summers from now until the boys were grown.
Four years ago...
My baby was still a baby. We had adjusted to life with three kids...sort of. I don't think you ever adjust completely. Middle had just completed his last day of Kindergarten and my Big was getting ready to enter the Grade School. My heart was nervous and excited all at the same time. We spent lots of time between baseball practices and soccer games.
Five years ago...
My Little got his first sunburn at a soccer game. My Middle scored his first goal. My Big missed the semi final round of his game because I had the time wrong. I remember it like it was yesterday. Coach was at graduation, we had two games and an end of year party...and a baby. The stroller didn't push well through the grass and I had on a cute outfit from attending Graduation. It was a 112 in the shade, and I thought life was hard.
Six years ago...
I was pregnant with Little. We had absolutely NO idea how life would change when he arrived. We had two boys that were two and half years apart in age. Life was calm, but we didn't know it. NO one played competitive sports...and Coach's games were the highlight of our week. And we thought life was crazy.
I could go on for hours with my thoughts. I remember this stuff like it was yesterday...but, ironically enough...I can't actually remember yesterday. It was a blur of work, kids stuff, school and bed. But we made it. We have made it every step of the way. Each step we thought was difficult. Only to find that each step brought us to the next phase in our lives. Everything seems so hard at the time...yet so rewarding when you look back. Why is that? Why can't we see how great our lives are when we are in the thick of it? Because we are too busy preparing for what's next. As I read about all of the posts on facebook of Moms and their graduations...it makes my heart nervous. I am sad that it goes so fast. I am sad that my Big is now going to be playing on the sports teams that his Dad has been coaching since he was born. I need to slow things down, but have absolutely no control over this. So...in an attempt to fix this blurred vision of today...my goal is to enjoy what is happening in my life, as it happens. That means NOT looking ahead to next week. It means being in the now. Enjoying this moment for all it has to offer...not just what I have time for.
In a year, I hope to look back and read this...
A year ago today...I realized that life is too short to skip to the next step. I learned that each moment is special and should be lived to the fullest. There is no reason to miss something that is happening right now, to get "ahead" of what comes next. I learned to enjoy the difficulties that come along with this phase of my life and understand that in looking back, it is those very struggles that create who I am now. I learned that eating cookie dough is a normal coping mechanism and that I am not that weird. Oh, and I learned to cook like P-dub.
Yep...that pretty much covers it.
Life moves too fast to miss it. Slow down...take the time to enjoy whatever it is that is happening in your life. I am going to enjoy my second cup of coffee before the Nelson 3 wake up.
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
I was saying goodbye to my daycare kids....for the last time. I was so sad. Looking back, I wish I had emotionally prepared myself for that day better than I did. I had a new job, the summer off, and life was changing more than I thought it could at that point. Big was moving on to Middle School. MIDDLE SCHOOL. As we are almost through his first year, it has been as nerve wracking and exciting as I expected.
Two years ago...
Life was crazy. But not in comparison to how it is now. The last day of school was upon us, and Little and I said goodbye as my Middle went to his last day at Munson Primary and my Big was on his way to being the Big Kahuna at his school. We had no idea how his 5th grade year would introduce us to so many "new" things.
My Little was even smaller. He was just 2 years old. Which meant dragging him to every ballgame around was somewhat of a chore. This summer we suffered many injuries at the ballpark...all from Little. It actually became a joke as to what would happen to him. He was very creative with his ouchies...and it almost did me in as a Mom. Big played real competitive baseball and we followed his team all over Kansas. We won a few, lost a lot, and learned right way that this was going to be our summers from now until the boys were grown.
Four years ago...
My baby was still a baby. We had adjusted to life with three kids...sort of. I don't think you ever adjust completely. Middle had just completed his last day of Kindergarten and my Big was getting ready to enter the Grade School. My heart was nervous and excited all at the same time. We spent lots of time between baseball practices and soccer games.
Five years ago...
Six years ago...
I was pregnant with Little. We had absolutely NO idea how life would change when he arrived. We had two boys that were two and half years apart in age. Life was calm, but we didn't know it. NO one played competitive sports...and Coach's games were the highlight of our week. And we thought life was crazy.
I could go on for hours with my thoughts. I remember this stuff like it was yesterday...but, ironically enough...I can't actually remember yesterday. It was a blur of work, kids stuff, school and bed. But we made it. We have made it every step of the way. Each step we thought was difficult. Only to find that each step brought us to the next phase in our lives. Everything seems so hard at the time...yet so rewarding when you look back. Why is that? Why can't we see how great our lives are when we are in the thick of it? Because we are too busy preparing for what's next. As I read about all of the posts on facebook of Moms and their graduations...it makes my heart nervous. I am sad that it goes so fast. I am sad that my Big is now going to be playing on the sports teams that his Dad has been coaching since he was born. I need to slow things down, but have absolutely no control over this. So...in an attempt to fix this blurred vision of today...my goal is to enjoy what is happening in my life, as it happens. That means NOT looking ahead to next week. It means being in the now. Enjoying this moment for all it has to offer...not just what I have time for.
In a year, I hope to look back and read this...
A year ago today...I realized that life is too short to skip to the next step. I learned that each moment is special and should be lived to the fullest. There is no reason to miss something that is happening right now, to get "ahead" of what comes next. I learned to enjoy the difficulties that come along with this phase of my life and understand that in looking back, it is those very struggles that create who I am now. I learned that eating cookie dough is a normal coping mechanism and that I am not that weird. Oh, and I learned to cook like P-dub.
Yep...that pretty much covers it.
Life moves too fast to miss it. Slow down...take the time to enjoy whatever it is that is happening in your life. I am going to enjoy my second cup of coffee before the Nelson 3 wake up.
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
Thursday, May 17, 2012
PLAY BALL
These two picture represent what has been keeping me from doing anything else. We had six straight days of baseball. And this is how it ended up. I am so proud of our high school team and their coaches. I am proud of our little league-ers too. They play at night...under the lights...like the big boys. They have success and they have failures...like the big boys. They learn to swing the bat, steal home, and catch pop flys...like the big boys. And before we can even blink an eye...they'll be big boys.
After the game last night, I took a picture with Coach and the boys. They seem so big to me...until I see the Momma's and their boys from the game last night. Some snapping pictures of their kids first experience with a regional championship. Some taking pictures of their son's last year in high school baseball. I can't even comprehend how fast this is going. But I know that it was nice last night to sit under the lights in the cool air and watch these boys work together as a team to win. We had a parent come up to us after the game to thank us for the coach's effort. The boys had fun...they were disciplined...and they learned to do both at the same time. The truth is...the coaches feel the same way. I will watch the man I married sit down to write in the graduation cards of these boys with tears in his eyes. People don't realize how much they care. The time and effort that is put into these boys is amazing to me. I love the way Coach looks after a big win like last night. He has more excitement than I can even tell you and it is just a fun thing to experience.
The messy house can wait. It really doesn't have a choice. We have tournaments from now until 2025. And the one free weekend we had...just got booked. The laundry...it can't wait so much, but the other "stuff"...can wait. This family, has a baseball game to take part in. Win or lose...this group of kids, coaches and parents have already won.
Congrats boys...coaches...parents and team supporters! LET'S GO WILDCATS!!! (and Jags...and little Wildcats...and Mad Dawgs)
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Word to your Mutha (post for Moms)
To my Mom,
Thank you for...
Thank you for:
Thank you for:
Word. (You are amazing women and I am blessed to know you)
Happy Mother's Day! You deserve a day of love and gratitude...and a shout out from the Referee of 3.
Thank you for...
- giving birth to me
- changing my cloth diapers
- lugging my booster seat from the kitchen table to the Toyota wagon and back again
- for cutting my hair and feathering my bangs
- for getting that curling iron brush thing caught in my hair after it had grown out, and for cutting it again
- for buying my Ethel...my beloved cabbage patch doll
- for always dressing me like Chele
- for putting up with me on Chele's birthdays...year after year after year
- for the Get In Shape Girl birthday party when I was 8
- for taking my picture with my dolls after I had posed them
- for my barbie mansion
- for always making me feel special
- for our trips to Seattle with Granny
- for paying for 50 cheerleading uniforms
- for letting me get through my Vanilla Ice phase in Jr. High
- for helping me get through Geometry
- for not giving up on me through my "rebel without a cause" boyfriend stage
- for letting me be different
- for cheering me on
- for being my biggest supporter when I sang
- for believing in me
- for Kurbabs (my first car)
- for helping me get through high school
- for teaching me how to do makeup...simple and FABULOUS
- for teaching me to love shoes, purses, clothes, and God
- for giving me your cry face...I get it every time I tear up...which is about three times a day
- for paying that cell phone bill that one time
- for tearing up the list of things I owed you for on my Wedding day
- for being beautiful inside and out
- for helping me get organized...and then doing it all over again three years later
- for loving my husband and my kids
- for understanding about baseball season
- for being the best Mom you could possibly be. You are an amazing woman. Your love for Christ encourages and inspires me. You are beautiful and I am blessed to be your daughter.
Thank you for:
- Putting up with me
- Sharing your clothes
- Sharing your room
- Sharing the contents of your room
- Sharing our car
- Only knocking the wind out of me one time
- Only taking the keys and hiding them from me one time
- Not telling Mom and Dad some of my secrets
- Helping me when Brett was a baby and I didn't know what to do with him
- Always laughing with me
- Always crying with me
- Being a wonderful Aunt to my boys
- Being a superstar Mom to your own kids
- Loving me...no matter what. I love you Sister. Have a wonderful Mother's Day.
Thank you for:
- Your son...I love him so much and am grateful for him.
- Loving your grandchildren. You love them as I do and I am so thankful for you. They are blessed to have you in their lives.
- Not being a super great cook when the boys were younger. Coach has zero expectations and I am not under pressure to make things like fried chicken (said with a thick southern accent) and homemade biscuits.
- Being simple. Your simplicity reminds me to take a step back and un-complicate my life. Sometimes simple is the best approach.
- Letting me drive the EEL. (This is an inside joke...but those who know will laugh)
- Just being you. You are the best Mother in law I could ask for and I love you so much.
- To Steph, Jen, and Lacie...you are amazing examples of strength and hope. I love you all very much.
- To Wave, Kim, Paula and Sheri and all of my more seasoned Mom friends...thank you for letting us watch you Mother your children. I have been blessed with friends who've been there before and who show us the way. In their example I see the good, the struggles, and the fact that we really can survive this thing called Motherhood.
- To all of my younger friends (Trista Kay, Katie, Erica, Lindsi, Lacie, to name a few)...thank you for helping me to remember what it is like to have little ones. Thank you for helping me remember their smiles, their laughter, my pure exhaustion and uncertainty in every single decision. Thank you for helping me take part in your little ones as I remember mine that way not that long ago.
- To all of the friends with kids my kids age...thank you for helping me just keep swimming. We all know that motherhood is not easy. In fact, it might be the hardest thing we EVER do. But we are in this together. At times we are keeping our heads above water. At times we are gasping for air. At times we are laughing zebras watching the bachelor and indulging in foods we probably shouldn't. But we are together...and we will make it. One step at a time.
Word. (You are amazing women and I am blessed to know you)
Happy Mother's Day! You deserve a day of love and gratitude...and a shout out from the Referee of 3.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Let's Get Personal
Personal relationships.
They are so important. I was thinking on my walk last night about how we develop these relationships and about some of the people in my life that I know and love so much. I started thinking about how I met some of the people in my life and what would have happened if I had just developed a surface relationship with those people.
There is so much to be said about being genuine. It is a trait that not everyone possesses and one that I hope I can instill in all three of my boys. It means so much to have a relationship with someone when you know exactly what you are getting out of the deal. You know their ups and their downs. You know what makes them smile and how to help when they are sad. You know because you take a personal interest in their lives. I am not talking about knowing their Grandparent's names or their kid's sports schedules. I am talking about being there to listen. Understanding what makes them tick. And knowing that they have the same interest in you.
I think that is why I get so upset when someone is upset with me. I try very hard to have personal relationships with everyone I meet. Church members...parents of kids that play sports with the boys...neighbors...coworkers...even friends of friends. When someone is introduced, I try my hardest to do two things. One, remember their name. (this is SUCH a challenge for me) And two, find something that I can connect with. It isn't always easy. But if you try to make a connection with someone when you meet them, they see that you care. Not because you think knowing them will benefit you in some way, but because you truly care to simply "know" them. I realize not everyone feels or sees the importance in this. But for me, my life is full because of the people I know. I go to a sporting event or to work, and I truly care when I ask how someone is doing. It is a genuine want to know how they are. When someone takes that kind of interest in me...it warms my heart. The other day, I was upset about something at work. It bothered me, but it wasn't something I felt like I could just go talk to anyone about. One of my friends walked in with a student and then left. Five minutes later, she ducked her head in and said..."hey...are you okay?" She noticed. Because she took the time to get to know me.
I realize we can't connect with everyone that passes us by, but we can be genuine in our efforts. If someone passes you, it goes a long way to make eye contact and smile. You never know what is going on in their life that might need a kind touch from a stranger. You may never see them again. But you smiled...you gave them something to take their mind off whatever was bothering them. And if you do see them again, you can know that you made an effort to be kind...and perhaps they'll pass that on to someone else.
Developing personal relationships is important for both you and for those people who you take an interest in. You may not be able to be the BEST friend to them all of the time, but you can pray for them and for their lives. You can make the most of the times when you see them and you can be a stable person in their lives. Being genuine is something that more people should do. Save the drama for your llama...and be kind. Be genuinely interested in the lives of those around you.
I saw this picture on a card at the store the other day and I fell in love with it for several reasons.
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
They are so important. I was thinking on my walk last night about how we develop these relationships and about some of the people in my life that I know and love so much. I started thinking about how I met some of the people in my life and what would have happened if I had just developed a surface relationship with those people.
There is so much to be said about being genuine. It is a trait that not everyone possesses and one that I hope I can instill in all three of my boys. It means so much to have a relationship with someone when you know exactly what you are getting out of the deal. You know their ups and their downs. You know what makes them smile and how to help when they are sad. You know because you take a personal interest in their lives. I am not talking about knowing their Grandparent's names or their kid's sports schedules. I am talking about being there to listen. Understanding what makes them tick. And knowing that they have the same interest in you.
I think that is why I get so upset when someone is upset with me. I try very hard to have personal relationships with everyone I meet. Church members...parents of kids that play sports with the boys...neighbors...coworkers...even friends of friends. When someone is introduced, I try my hardest to do two things. One, remember their name. (this is SUCH a challenge for me) And two, find something that I can connect with. It isn't always easy. But if you try to make a connection with someone when you meet them, they see that you care. Not because you think knowing them will benefit you in some way, but because you truly care to simply "know" them. I realize not everyone feels or sees the importance in this. But for me, my life is full because of the people I know. I go to a sporting event or to work, and I truly care when I ask how someone is doing. It is a genuine want to know how they are. When someone takes that kind of interest in me...it warms my heart. The other day, I was upset about something at work. It bothered me, but it wasn't something I felt like I could just go talk to anyone about. One of my friends walked in with a student and then left. Five minutes later, she ducked her head in and said..."hey...are you okay?" She noticed. Because she took the time to get to know me.
I realize we can't connect with everyone that passes us by, but we can be genuine in our efforts. If someone passes you, it goes a long way to make eye contact and smile. You never know what is going on in their life that might need a kind touch from a stranger. You may never see them again. But you smiled...you gave them something to take their mind off whatever was bothering them. And if you do see them again, you can know that you made an effort to be kind...and perhaps they'll pass that on to someone else.
Developing personal relationships is important for both you and for those people who you take an interest in. You may not be able to be the BEST friend to them all of the time, but you can pray for them and for their lives. You can make the most of the times when you see them and you can be a stable person in their lives. Being genuine is something that more people should do. Save the drama for your llama...and be kind. Be genuinely interested in the lives of those around you.
I saw this picture on a card at the store the other day and I fell in love with it for several reasons.
- I think it is hilarious. They really look like they are laughing. I have a group of friends that I can laugh with like no one's business. The more I look at the card, the more I think we resemble these zebras.
- I love zebras. I love the wild design of their bodies. I love that they are hippy animals and they wear stripes anyway. Makes me feel good about myself.
- I think laughter is contagious. This card made me stand in the card isle at Dillons and laugh out loud. People were staring. I laughed for a long time before I realized...I must have just needed a good laugh.
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Grateful
There are moments in life...when God gives you a gentle nudge on the shoulder that says...I need you to hear this.
There are also moments in life...when God grabs you by both shoulders and says...YOU NEED TO HEAR THIS.
Today, I experienced the latter of the two.
Life has been a bit crazy. Here are a list of my complaints.
I am carrying a few extra lbs of baby weight. My baby will be 6.
I am still in college. I will be 35.
I have an EXTREMELY messy house. Messy, dusty, full of laundry/ironing, dishes to be done, on my last nerve house.
Our schedule is completely full from now until 2030.
I need a pedicure.
The battery in my van is dying a slow death. Each day, I go out to the car before Coach leaves...hoping it will start. If not, he can jump the battery and we can make a few more days until the need becomes urgent.
My clothes...although stylish...are a bit tight. And summer is coming. And I've lost my will to care.
This list...could go on and on...if I allowed it to.
I feel like God was looking inside of my thoughts and this is what he saw cluttering my mind. Hence the need for the shoulder grab shouting that happened about twenty minutes ago.
In my line of work, I work with some pretty great kids. And I have had the opportunity to do a lot of learning this year. This morning, I had to go to a classroom where a very special little boy does his work. This particular child had some surgery done to correct a physical disability and he is still in a lot of pain. I happened to be in the classroom at the right time...to witness that.
My heart broke. My eyes welled up with tears. Real tears. I stayed for as long as I could be "adult" about it, and then I left. I quickly walked back to my office and cried. I prayed and cried and cried some more. My heart was full of pain for this boy. And then for his family. And then for his teachers and his Paras...who I also witnessed doing some amazing work. I am telling you...these people...work so hard. I was blessed to witness what they do.
Lord...my list...I can't even remember it. I am fine with my clothes. I am fine with our schedule. I am so blessed to be able to see my child run around the track at his field day today. That child moves slower than a snail...but he can run and jump and he makes my heart swell. I am blessed. I am grateful.
This little boy...made me realize that all we really need each day...is to be grateful. We don't need to be skinny or wealthy. We don't need to be afraid or overwhelmed. We don't need to be greedy or jealous. We don't need to be angry or mean.
We just need to be grateful. I would imagine that the Mom of this little boy is grateful. For his smile...for his strength...and for his life. I'm pretty grateful for him too.
BE GRATEFUL.
Referee of 3
There are also moments in life...when God grabs you by both shoulders and says...YOU NEED TO HEAR THIS.
Today, I experienced the latter of the two.
Life has been a bit crazy. Here are a list of my complaints.
I am carrying a few extra lbs of baby weight. My baby will be 6.
I am still in college. I will be 35.
I have an EXTREMELY messy house. Messy, dusty, full of laundry/ironing, dishes to be done, on my last nerve house.
Our schedule is completely full from now until 2030.
I need a pedicure.
The battery in my van is dying a slow death. Each day, I go out to the car before Coach leaves...hoping it will start. If not, he can jump the battery and we can make a few more days until the need becomes urgent.
My clothes...although stylish...are a bit tight. And summer is coming. And I've lost my will to care.
This list...could go on and on...if I allowed it to.
I feel like God was looking inside of my thoughts and this is what he saw cluttering my mind. Hence the need for the shoulder grab shouting that happened about twenty minutes ago.
In my line of work, I work with some pretty great kids. And I have had the opportunity to do a lot of learning this year. This morning, I had to go to a classroom where a very special little boy does his work. This particular child had some surgery done to correct a physical disability and he is still in a lot of pain. I happened to be in the classroom at the right time...to witness that.
My heart broke. My eyes welled up with tears. Real tears. I stayed for as long as I could be "adult" about it, and then I left. I quickly walked back to my office and cried. I prayed and cried and cried some more. My heart was full of pain for this boy. And then for his family. And then for his teachers and his Paras...who I also witnessed doing some amazing work. I am telling you...these people...work so hard. I was blessed to witness what they do.
Lord...my list...I can't even remember it. I am fine with my clothes. I am fine with our schedule. I am so blessed to be able to see my child run around the track at his field day today. That child moves slower than a snail...but he can run and jump and he makes my heart swell. I am blessed. I am grateful.
This little boy...made me realize that all we really need each day...is to be grateful. We don't need to be skinny or wealthy. We don't need to be afraid or overwhelmed. We don't need to be greedy or jealous. We don't need to be angry or mean.
We just need to be grateful. I would imagine that the Mom of this little boy is grateful. For his smile...for his strength...and for his life. I'm pretty grateful for him too.
BE GRATEFUL.
Referee of 3
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
A Good Day Indeed
Yesterday, May 8th, 2012...was a good day.
First of all, one of my dear friends had a baby. Not just any baby either. Her fourth child. Brinklee Kydan Thome was born yesterday. Brinklee is the little sister to Kamdyn, Kolbe, and Kyrie Thome. Most of you know how special the Kyrie Foundation is to me. But more importantly, Kyrie's family holds a very special place in my heart. Yesterday, Kyrie, Kamdyn, and Kolbe's Momma, gave birth to a very healthy, beautiful baby girl. She's gorgeous...like her Momma...and loved by so many. Congrats Jordan and Lacie on another precious Thome child.
Secondly...the Mulvane School Bond passed. Praise the Lord! I know to some of you...this will mean nothing. But as a parent of a child in the district...and as a wife of a teacher in the district...and as a friend to so many who work in the district...it is a HUGE deal. We are so excited! Many people worked together to create a list of items that were a need vs. items that were simply a want. Others promoted the bond and spent hours upon hours in meetings to ensure the word of our needs got out to the community. It passed...and we are thrilled. So many needs will be addressed and our children will attend safer schools. Thank you to our community for the support! Mulvane ROCKS!
Third...we had a little family time at our house last night. By "family time", I mean my Sis and Bro in law, my niece and nephew, four doxie dogs, Coach, the boys and myself. Oh and a friend...(there is always a friend here) Anyway, we unexpectedly gathered for dinner and had a wonderful evening. We shared our excitement over the great day and it was good.
Sometimes, when you least expect it...good happens. As we all know too well...bad happens too. Which makes the good seem so good when we get a taste of it. There are moments in our day that can turn the entire day sour. But we have the choice to make the best of those moments and create good in our days and our lives.
Thank you God for the good in yesterday. It was a great day and we are so blessed. Thank you for knowing our needs and our wants...and for helping us to see your plan in little positives that happen in our lives. Thank you for the reassurance of your presence in times of trouble. Thank you for the people in our lives that strengthen our faith and that cushion our fall. And thank you for cookie dough. (Just throwing that in)
Amen
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
First of all, one of my dear friends had a baby. Not just any baby either. Her fourth child. Brinklee Kydan Thome was born yesterday. Brinklee is the little sister to Kamdyn, Kolbe, and Kyrie Thome. Most of you know how special the Kyrie Foundation is to me. But more importantly, Kyrie's family holds a very special place in my heart. Yesterday, Kyrie, Kamdyn, and Kolbe's Momma, gave birth to a very healthy, beautiful baby girl. She's gorgeous...like her Momma...and loved by so many. Congrats Jordan and Lacie on another precious Thome child.
Secondly...the Mulvane School Bond passed. Praise the Lord! I know to some of you...this will mean nothing. But as a parent of a child in the district...and as a wife of a teacher in the district...and as a friend to so many who work in the district...it is a HUGE deal. We are so excited! Many people worked together to create a list of items that were a need vs. items that were simply a want. Others promoted the bond and spent hours upon hours in meetings to ensure the word of our needs got out to the community. It passed...and we are thrilled. So many needs will be addressed and our children will attend safer schools. Thank you to our community for the support! Mulvane ROCKS!
Third...we had a little family time at our house last night. By "family time", I mean my Sis and Bro in law, my niece and nephew, four doxie dogs, Coach, the boys and myself. Oh and a friend...(there is always a friend here) Anyway, we unexpectedly gathered for dinner and had a wonderful evening. We shared our excitement over the great day and it was good.
Sometimes, when you least expect it...good happens. As we all know too well...bad happens too. Which makes the good seem so good when we get a taste of it. There are moments in our day that can turn the entire day sour. But we have the choice to make the best of those moments and create good in our days and our lives.
Thank you God for the good in yesterday. It was a great day and we are so blessed. Thank you for knowing our needs and our wants...and for helping us to see your plan in little positives that happen in our lives. Thank you for the reassurance of your presence in times of trouble. Thank you for the people in our lives that strengthen our faith and that cushion our fall. And thank you for cookie dough. (Just throwing that in)
Amen
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Paradise
Some say this is paradise. I wouldn't know. I've never been. It looks beautiful...and calming...and perfect.
This is my paradise. I don't know anything different. I've been raised here and this is what I know. A warm, sunny day...windows open...the wind blowing. (Because it's Kansas and that is just the way it goes.) We sat at a baseball game last summer and this was what it looked like behind the outfield. It was beautiful as the wind blew. Beach? No. Calming? Yes. And there was no place I would rather have been than there.
This is what keeps me busy all summer long. Middle, Big, and Little. In no particular order. In my planner, Big's games are written in green, Middle in blue, and Little in bright yellow. We pack up our van and we go to games. This is where we do some of our best work. This is also where we do some of our worst work. Baseball is kind of our "thing". We live it...we love it...we learn from it...and we are together as a family of 5.
For Mother's Day this year...I'll be doing exactly what I did last year...and the year before. If you are a baseball or softball or soccer or any sport Mom...you will be able to relate. And let me tell you what I have learned from this experience. Flowers are a nice gift. I love lotions, picture frames, jewelry and girly things.
But there is nothing on earth like the gift of ...my kids.
My filthy, dirty, sweaty, kids. This picture was taken last year after our all day Mother's Day baseball tournament. The wind blew 50 mph all day long. That is probably an exaggeration...but there HAS to be a reason for my hair looking like this. The brown spots you see on all of our faces are not freckles. Well they are...but the other stuff is dirt. We were hot...sweaty...gross...and messy. But we were together. I was there watching my kids do what they LOVE to do. I was yelling things that didn't make sense and pretending like I knew what was going on. I was their biggest fan. I was also their dirtiest fan. I come from a long line of wonderful women. I have the best Mom in the world. I have the most amazing Granny I could ask for. I have examples set for me that I sometimes don't feel like I can live up to. But...I know that on Mother's Day, I'll be in my paradise. It doesn't have palm trees or umbrella drinks. It doesn't include a facial or a massage. It does include the best hugs in the whole world...and probably some wind, some dirt, some dill pickle sunflower seeds and a big ol' diet Pepsi.
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Surrender
This is my flag.
Notice the color.
I am surrendering.
To what?
The battle that is going on between me and my control. Or lack there of.
I have three classes that have final paper, units, and tests.
I have the city wide garage sale this weekend where I am being pulled to take part out of sheer tradition and because I need to get stuff out of here, but don't have time, patience, or time. Did I mention that time is an issue? Oh and then there is that panic attack that occurred this morning as I am going through my child's dresser and realize that EVERY SINGLE PIECE of clothing that I took out, does not fit him. So...he is growing, and will be naked tomorrow.
I have baseball every other night. Or every night. You decide. I have chosen to quit looking at my planner that I once loved. It is so full of highlighter and stickers, that I can't even read it.
I have quit even trying to clean out my van or my house. If I can get the baseball uniforms clean before the next game and all of my discussion board questions answered and posted by midnight on Thursdays, I am good. There are sunflower seeds and Gatorade bottles just rolling around somewhere in the van. And the bat bags have taken over the trunk. I won't even mention the smell of dirt...and sweat...and feet. Oh sorry...I guess I mentioned it.
And so there you have it. On my way to the game tonight, I was talking to God. I said...okay Big Guy...I need you so bad right now. I am tired, and hungry, and tired, and cranky, and tired. And we have so much to do and so little time. And I might be running on empty. So I could really use your help. But...I need you to do this and this and this, in that order..by Monday. Please. AND THANK YOU. Amen.
He answered. With a song. Called...
White Flag, by Chris Tomlin
I don't remember much about the song, but the chorus said something like this...
We raise our white flag
We surrender
All to you
All for you
All? Oh.
I guess I missed the mark a bit there.
You want control.
I am out of control.
I surrender.
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
Notice the color.
I am surrendering.
To what?
The battle that is going on between me and my control. Or lack there of.
I have three classes that have final paper, units, and tests.
I have the city wide garage sale this weekend where I am being pulled to take part out of sheer tradition and because I need to get stuff out of here, but don't have time, patience, or time. Did I mention that time is an issue? Oh and then there is that panic attack that occurred this morning as I am going through my child's dresser and realize that EVERY SINGLE PIECE of clothing that I took out, does not fit him. So...he is growing, and will be naked tomorrow.
I have baseball every other night. Or every night. You decide. I have chosen to quit looking at my planner that I once loved. It is so full of highlighter and stickers, that I can't even read it.
I have quit even trying to clean out my van or my house. If I can get the baseball uniforms clean before the next game and all of my discussion board questions answered and posted by midnight on Thursdays, I am good. There are sunflower seeds and Gatorade bottles just rolling around somewhere in the van. And the bat bags have taken over the trunk. I won't even mention the smell of dirt...and sweat...and feet. Oh sorry...I guess I mentioned it.
And so there you have it. On my way to the game tonight, I was talking to God. I said...okay Big Guy...I need you so bad right now. I am tired, and hungry, and tired, and cranky, and tired. And we have so much to do and so little time. And I might be running on empty. So I could really use your help. But...I need you to do this and this and this, in that order..by Monday. Please. AND THANK YOU. Amen.
He answered. With a song. Called...
White Flag, by Chris Tomlin
I don't remember much about the song, but the chorus said something like this...
We raise our white flag
We surrender
All to you
All for you
All? Oh.
I guess I missed the mark a bit there.
You want control.
I am out of control.
I surrender.
Have a blessed day!
Referee of 3
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