My kids spend a lot of time online. Most of the time they are playing games. I think they get their love of games from me, because, well, I love playing games. I grew up with three sisters and a brother, and we were always playing board games. I am sure if there were computers back then, we would have played online as well.
I think my kids are missing out on some of the things I loved as a kid, simply because we are living in a different time. I used to be told to go play outside almost everyday. My sister and I would hop on our bikes and ride all around the neighborhood. These days, I don't like Brandi to go further than the sidewalk in front of our apartment. I remember one time when I was little, I was riding my bike on our street by myself, and some guy in a car started following me. He eventually asked if I wanted a ride, and I rode back home as fast as I could. Scared me to death. These days, I don't think people offer kids rides. They just snatch them up. I see so many stories on the news about missing kids. Or kids who are hit by cars. There are so many dangers out there!
So I am not opposed to Brandi spending time inside, playing music games online, where I know she is safe. I know I can not protect her from everything, but as a mom, I will try my hardest! Some day I will have to let her spread her wings and fly, but I am not ready just yet. And I don't think she is ready, either.
Showing posts with label my kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label my kids. Show all posts
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Monday, October 29, 2012
Chemistry Was Hard For Me, And It's Hard For Ryan, Too
For my girls, learning comes easily. Brandi has been in the "smart kids" program since third grade, and she loves the challenge of the things they do. Kasi is in mostly honor classes, and will be inducted into the Beta Club at the end of November. Neither daughter studies, yet they both do well on tests.
Ryan, on the other hand, has to work really hard just to get passing grades. I know part of his problem is being un-medicated for his ADHD (if you remember he was having heart issues on all of the stimulant medicines, and the non-stimulant medications had no effect on his ADHD, so we took him off of everything last school year). Right now, he is only taking one "real" class, chemistry, and he did pass the first semester by the skin of his teeth. He has no problem passing his auto mechanic class or driver's ed.
I am worried about him failing chemistry, and if he does, he will have to quit his job. My only rules for him working are that he gets up and goes to school every day, even after working a late shift, and that he passes his classes. I am thinking about looking into online tutoring to maybe help him out a bit. I know if he could find a way for it to "click" for him, he would do well. That said, chemistry is the only class I ever came close to failing when I was in high school, because I just didn't "get it". So I can kind of understand his not getting it either. I am hoping that a little extra help will keep his grade up above failing.
Do any of you have any tricks for learning chemistry that I could pass along to him?
Ryan, on the other hand, has to work really hard just to get passing grades. I know part of his problem is being un-medicated for his ADHD (if you remember he was having heart issues on all of the stimulant medicines, and the non-stimulant medications had no effect on his ADHD, so we took him off of everything last school year). Right now, he is only taking one "real" class, chemistry, and he did pass the first semester by the skin of his teeth. He has no problem passing his auto mechanic class or driver's ed.
I am worried about him failing chemistry, and if he does, he will have to quit his job. My only rules for him working are that he gets up and goes to school every day, even after working a late shift, and that he passes his classes. I am thinking about looking into online tutoring to maybe help him out a bit. I know if he could find a way for it to "click" for him, he would do well. That said, chemistry is the only class I ever came close to failing when I was in high school, because I just didn't "get it". So I can kind of understand his not getting it either. I am hoping that a little extra help will keep his grade up above failing.
Do any of you have any tricks for learning chemistry that I could pass along to him?
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Poker And Game Night
One of the best memories I have of my grandparents is playing poker with them. Years ago, my parents moved from New York to South Carolina, leaving me, my sister, and my brother behind. The only family we had up north were our grandparents, and every couple of weeks we would get together with them and play poker. We hardly ever played five card stud. My PopPop had other games he liked to play, and the only one I can remember is "deuces and jacks, the man with the ax, and a pair of seven takes all".
It has been many, many years since we have played, and it's been over ten years since my PopPop passed away. I have tried playing poker online, but it is not the same. These days, I prefer playing classic solitaire. I have taught the kids how to play rummy, and that is fun to play when we have our family game nights, though we haven't done that in a really long time. I think our last family game night was New Year's Eve last year. The kids had gotten a dice game for Christmas, so we sat and played that for a couple of hours. Eventually, I gave up and went to play solitaire online, leaving the game to the kids.
My kids love when we do game nights, not only because we play games together, but because I cook all kinds of "bad for us" food. Each of the kids get to pick out all the food, and it is usually a combination of mozzarella sticks, taquitos, and pizza rolls.
I am going to have to plan a game night with the kids soon.
It has been many, many years since we have played, and it's been over ten years since my PopPop passed away. I have tried playing poker online, but it is not the same. These days, I prefer playing classic solitaire. I have taught the kids how to play rummy, and that is fun to play when we have our family game nights, though we haven't done that in a really long time. I think our last family game night was New Year's Eve last year. The kids had gotten a dice game for Christmas, so we sat and played that for a couple of hours. Eventually, I gave up and went to play solitaire online, leaving the game to the kids.
My kids love when we do game nights, not only because we play games together, but because I cook all kinds of "bad for us" food. Each of the kids get to pick out all the food, and it is usually a combination of mozzarella sticks, taquitos, and pizza rolls.
I am going to have to plan a game night with the kids soon.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Grades
My son has the easiest schedule this year. He is taking driver's education and another mechanics class. The only "real" class he has is chemistry, and he is struggling. I am sure some of you remember the problems he was having with his blood pressure while on his ADHD medicine and why he had to come off of it. He still struggles with his attention span, though he is doing better. He recently got a job at a local fast food restaurant, and one of the conditions of him keeping that job is keeping his grades up.
I was a little disappointed last week when his chemistry teacher called me to let me know that Ryan is missing some assignments, and therefor failing the class. Since we are only a month or so into this school year, his teacher has given him the opportunity to make up the work. The thing is, Ryan struggles with science. He failed biology last year and ended up in summer school. I want him to get interested in science, so that maybe his grades will be better. I thought about having him read Science Daily, or maybe finding some type of chemistry game online. I need something to grab his attention.
I was also thinking about rewarding him if he raises his grades, with something from GeekAlerts.com. It's easier for my girls to get good grades. In fact, they are both honor roll students, and if I reward Ryan for bringing his grades up, I should be rewarding the girls for making good grades to begin with, right? Maybe I could use some ProFlowers coupon codes and send them some flowers when report cards come out. I know they all deserve something special for their hard work.
I was a little disappointed last week when his chemistry teacher called me to let me know that Ryan is missing some assignments, and therefor failing the class. Since we are only a month or so into this school year, his teacher has given him the opportunity to make up the work. The thing is, Ryan struggles with science. He failed biology last year and ended up in summer school. I want him to get interested in science, so that maybe his grades will be better. I thought about having him read Science Daily, or maybe finding some type of chemistry game online. I need something to grab his attention.
I was also thinking about rewarding him if he raises his grades, with something from GeekAlerts.com. It's easier for my girls to get good grades. In fact, they are both honor roll students, and if I reward Ryan for bringing his grades up, I should be rewarding the girls for making good grades to begin with, right? Maybe I could use some ProFlowers coupon codes and send them some flowers when report cards come out. I know they all deserve something special for their hard work.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
It's That Time Of Year
Did you know that there is less than four months left until Christmas Day? Yeah, I am stressing out just a little bit about that. Last year, my kids didn't have much under the tree, and I don't want this year to be the same. I want to be able to get them everything they want, but deep down, I know that just isn't possible. Ryan and Kasi are getting too old for toys. They want expensive electronics. I caught Ryan checking out Geek Magazine the other day, and he was drooling over some of the gadgets on there.
He already has a laptop, and I would love to be able to get both of my girls their own, but even with a million Apple promo codes I couldn't afford it before Christmas. Last year, when I got my tax refund, I gave each of the kids $100 to spend however they wanted. All three of them bought cell phones. This year, I think I might just get the girls their laptops instead of handing them cash. I'm just hoping that after I pay for my divorce and buy a new car there is money left over.
Until then, I am going to try and do a little shopping here and there when I have some extra cash. I plan on doing some shopping online, and using a Target promo code or two to save some money. All I need first is a list of things my kids want for Christmas that I may actually be able to afford.
He already has a laptop, and I would love to be able to get both of my girls their own, but even with a million Apple promo codes I couldn't afford it before Christmas. Last year, when I got my tax refund, I gave each of the kids $100 to spend however they wanted. All three of them bought cell phones. This year, I think I might just get the girls their laptops instead of handing them cash. I'm just hoping that after I pay for my divorce and buy a new car there is money left over.
Until then, I am going to try and do a little shopping here and there when I have some extra cash. I plan on doing some shopping online, and using a Target promo code or two to save some money. All I need first is a list of things my kids want for Christmas that I may actually be able to afford.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Lazy Like Their Mama
I have three kids, as you all know, and none of them play sports. Ryan is more into cars than football. Kasi would rather draw then play softball or tennis. And Brandi is my drama child. She would rather sing, dance, and act than do just about anything else. I have a feeling that someday, somehow, this child is going to end up starring in her own sitcom. Knowing her, it will probably be something she writes and directs herself. She is not only dramatic. She is opinionated and stubborn, and I can't see her taking direction well, which means she will be doing it all herself. I say, more power to her. She just needs to remember her mother when she gets famous.
All three of my kids love to play games on the computer, and on the wii and Playstation. They have no problem picking up a tennis racket to play on the wii or sitting on my computer and playing ronaldo online. I know that I should make them do more stuff outdoors, but I was always an inside kid myself, so it's easy for me to understand their unwillingness to be outside, especially with all the games and such available online. I remember as a preteen spending the summer in my room, reading one book after another. I did go outside to swim, and once I got into the pool it was very hard to get me out of it. My kids love to swim, too. Well, my girls do. Ryan is sixteen now, and if it doesn't have a motor and four wheels, he has no interest in it whatsoever.
Brandi did join the community service club at her school, and once a month they will walk from the school to a local nursing home to help out. That counts as exercise, right?
All three of my kids love to play games on the computer, and on the wii and Playstation. They have no problem picking up a tennis racket to play on the wii or sitting on my computer and playing ronaldo online. I know that I should make them do more stuff outdoors, but I was always an inside kid myself, so it's easy for me to understand their unwillingness to be outside, especially with all the games and such available online. I remember as a preteen spending the summer in my room, reading one book after another. I did go outside to swim, and once I got into the pool it was very hard to get me out of it. My kids love to swim, too. Well, my girls do. Ryan is sixteen now, and if it doesn't have a motor and four wheels, he has no interest in it whatsoever.
Brandi did join the community service club at her school, and once a month they will walk from the school to a local nursing home to help out. That counts as exercise, right?
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Back To School Time
My kids go back to school in about a month, and I have already started searching the stores for their school supplies. Last night I bought a few things for Brandi. For some reason, the closer it gets to school starting, the harder it is to find composition notebooks. I remember one year waiting until the last minute to get the kids supplies, and we could not find composition notebooks anywhere. I finally ended up buying them at a grocery store for about $3 each, which was crazy. So, last night, when I saw them at Walmart for fifty cents, I bought a bunch of them.
My kids are older now, so their supply lists have changed. I no longer have to supply their classrooms with baggies and tissues. Those things have been replaced with scientific calculators and three ring binders, which happen to be way more expensive. I don't remember having to buy so many supplies when I was in school. All I needed was a pen and a notebook for each class and I was set.
Ryan is taking drivers education first semester, which is going to cost me some money. He's also going to be going to the trade school again second semester. I'm not sure exactly what he is taking there, though I am pretty sure it has something to do with cars. I wish he was taking the construction course, because that class actually builds a house, complete with composite shutters and vinyl siding. They have the kids do all the electrical work, too. When the house is complete, they are able to sell it. Pretty cool, right?
My kids are older now, so their supply lists have changed. I no longer have to supply their classrooms with baggies and tissues. Those things have been replaced with scientific calculators and three ring binders, which happen to be way more expensive. I don't remember having to buy so many supplies when I was in school. All I needed was a pen and a notebook for each class and I was set.
Ryan is taking drivers education first semester, which is going to cost me some money. He's also going to be going to the trade school again second semester. I'm not sure exactly what he is taking there, though I am pretty sure it has something to do with cars. I wish he was taking the construction course, because that class actually builds a house, complete with composite shutters and vinyl siding. They have the kids do all the electrical work, too. When the house is complete, they are able to sell it. Pretty cool, right?
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Finding Child Care In Your Area
Just the other day I realized that Christmas is only six months away. SIX MONTHS? How is it possible that this year is going by so quickly? In a little over a month my kids will be heading back to school. Ryan will be a, gasp, junior, Kasi will be a sophomore, and Brandi will be in fifth grade. Last year after school, Brandi went to a neighbors house after school until Ryan and Kasi got home, and I paid this woman $15 a week. I was hoping that she would feel comfortable to come home herself this year and be alone for an hour until the older kids got home, but she doesn't want to. I'm not sure that I want her going back to the same sitter, since there were a couple of incidents last year where Brandi came home and they weren't home, and she didn't know what to do. Thankfully, another neighbor let her sit at her house. My only concern is that I have no idea how to find child care in my area, since we haven't been living here that long.
I found a site called momtrusted.com where you can type in your zip code and find child care in your area. Unfortunately, when I typed in my area code there were no results. I plan on continuing to check it, and hopefully before school starts I will find someone dependable. I found out that they not only connect you with sitter, you can also find preschools and nannies.
If worse comes to worse, I'll have to use the same sitter. I will probably also send Brandi to school with a house key, so on those occasions when she is left alone, she can just come here and wait for her sister and brother. I know she won't like that, but she can talk to me on the phone the entire time, since I drive a delivery van and it doesn't matter if I am on the phone or not. In fact, I spend the majority of my day talking to my kids and my friends on the phone. It's one of the many benefits of being alone in my van all day.
I found a site called momtrusted.com where you can type in your zip code and find child care in your area. Unfortunately, when I typed in my area code there were no results. I plan on continuing to check it, and hopefully before school starts I will find someone dependable. I found out that they not only connect you with sitter, you can also find preschools and nannies.
If worse comes to worse, I'll have to use the same sitter. I will probably also send Brandi to school with a house key, so on those occasions when she is left alone, she can just come here and wait for her sister and brother. I know she won't like that, but she can talk to me on the phone the entire time, since I drive a delivery van and it doesn't matter if I am on the phone or not. In fact, I spend the majority of my day talking to my kids and my friends on the phone. It's one of the many benefits of being alone in my van all day.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Out Of School For Summer
I can not believe the kids are already out of school for the summer. This year is going by so fast! I have a feeling that Christmas is going to sneak up on us before we know it. Last year, I wasn't able to get the kids much, because I was short on money. I do not want that to happen again this year. They insisted that what I was able to afford was more than enough, and I know they meant it, but I want to do better this year. That means I need to start shopping now.
Each of my kids have different tastes. Brandi is my girly girl. She loves to wear dresses and have her hair done "just right" every single day. She is very picky when it comes to her clothes. I bet if I could find some louben dresses in her size she would be in heaven. She also loves earring and necklaces. For the past few years, I have made sure that there was at least one of each of those things under the tree, especially ladybug themed ones. The kids loves ladybugs.
Kasi is more of a jeans and tshirt kind of girl. In fact, that is what you will find her in everyday. She has a bad habit of always wearing a jacket, too. This drives me crazy, because even though it has been ninety degrees outside, she still insists on wearing jackets. Maybe she will find a windbreaker lightweight or two under the tree this year.
Ryan is going to be easy to shop for. He recently dropped his brand new cell phone, which I paid a pretty good sum of money for, into the creek. I was able to get him a new phone, but it was the cheapest one the store carried. I know he wants a more sophisticated phone again, so that is a priority for me. It won't be an android or an iphone, because they are not supported by my carrier, but it will be something similar to one of those. I wonder if a marc by marc jacob wristlet for iphone 4s would work on whatever I get him?
All I know is that if I start shopping now, I may be able to have a good bit of things for each of them when Christmas rolls around.
Each of my kids have different tastes. Brandi is my girly girl. She loves to wear dresses and have her hair done "just right" every single day. She is very picky when it comes to her clothes. I bet if I could find some louben dresses in her size she would be in heaven. She also loves earring and necklaces. For the past few years, I have made sure that there was at least one of each of those things under the tree, especially ladybug themed ones. The kids loves ladybugs.
Kasi is more of a jeans and tshirt kind of girl. In fact, that is what you will find her in everyday. She has a bad habit of always wearing a jacket, too. This drives me crazy, because even though it has been ninety degrees outside, she still insists on wearing jackets. Maybe she will find a windbreaker lightweight or two under the tree this year.
Ryan is going to be easy to shop for. He recently dropped his brand new cell phone, which I paid a pretty good sum of money for, into the creek. I was able to get him a new phone, but it was the cheapest one the store carried. I know he wants a more sophisticated phone again, so that is a priority for me. It won't be an android or an iphone, because they are not supported by my carrier, but it will be something similar to one of those. I wonder if a marc by marc jacob wristlet for iphone 4s would work on whatever I get him?
All I know is that if I start shopping now, I may be able to have a good bit of things for each of them when Christmas rolls around.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Goodbye Doctor
I found out some news a couple of weeks ago that is breaking my heart. The doctor that the kids and I have been seeing for ages is closing his office. I don't remember exactly when we started seeing him, but I know he was the one who told me I was pregnant with Brandi, so it's been at least eleven years. He diagnosed Ryan with ADHD, and always made sure his medications were working the way they should.
I do not have health insurance for my kids, because I can not afford it. They do have medicaid, which is such a blessing. I have no health insurance at all, which worries me sometimes. I mean, if I were to get really sick, I have no idea what I would do. I need to do some research to try and find some kind of affordable health insurance for myself, but honestly, right now, I don't have any extra money at the end of the month to pay for it. I thank God everyday that I am pretty healthy, and I hope I stay this way.
I don't know what I am going to do about finding another doctor for my kids. I have made a few phone calls, and most of the doctor's offices I have called are not accepting new patients, or they do not accept Medicaid. It's pretty frustrating. The only good thing is that now that Ryan is off all his ADHD meds (due to blood pressure issues) he doesn't need to see anyone on a regular basis anymore. The only time my kids do see the doctor is when they are sick, so I may end up using the night and weekend clinics for now. I know this is not a permanent solution, but I don't think I have any other option right now.
I do not have health insurance for my kids, because I can not afford it. They do have medicaid, which is such a blessing. I have no health insurance at all, which worries me sometimes. I mean, if I were to get really sick, I have no idea what I would do. I need to do some research to try and find some kind of affordable health insurance for myself, but honestly, right now, I don't have any extra money at the end of the month to pay for it. I thank God everyday that I am pretty healthy, and I hope I stay this way.
I don't know what I am going to do about finding another doctor for my kids. I have made a few phone calls, and most of the doctor's offices I have called are not accepting new patients, or they do not accept Medicaid. It's pretty frustrating. The only good thing is that now that Ryan is off all his ADHD meds (due to blood pressure issues) he doesn't need to see anyone on a regular basis anymore. The only time my kids do see the doctor is when they are sick, so I may end up using the night and weekend clinics for now. I know this is not a permanent solution, but I don't think I have any other option right now.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Some Christmas Pictures
Me and my kids.
My mom and my kids.
This is my favorite picture from Christmas...Brandi's face when she saw my mom had gotten her the bike she wanted!
Boo and her new bike.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
They All Passed!
I got Ryan and Kasi's report cards in the mail today. Brandi brought her's home with her yesterday. They all passed. Brandi and Kasi got all A's and B's. Ryan passed, but by the skin of his teeth. It's funny. I just wrote a post about how well he is doing off his ADHD medication, and yesterday he asked me if he could start taking it again. He feels like he is starting to lose focus, and his end of semester test grades proved just that. He did well for the semester, but failed two of his end of course exams. Thankfully, those grades didn;t bring his averages down to failing, but it was pretty close. I'm not sure what I am going to do about his medications. He has two weeks off before school starts again, so we'll see.
It was so much easier when they were little, and school was actually fun for them. Nowadays, the internet is full of games that help little kids learn. You can find all kinds of online math games for kindergarten kids that make learning even more fun. My kids used to love to play Memory, so I did a search for online memory games, and found this site where kids can play a matching game to discover interesting facts. My little nephew is five, and he plays all kinds of games on the computer. It amazes me that kids that age, and even younger, are pros when it comes to the computer.
I wish I could find sites that offer games for kids Ryan's age. He's struggling in English right now. He said his end of course exam in that subject was reading a passage and then answering questions that required him to really comprehend what he had just read. Now, reading has never been his strong suit, and I am at a loss as to how to help him with that. The school has taken notice of his struggling and put him in a remedial class for next semester. He told me he is going to try and get out of it, but I told him not to. I may allow him to slack in other classes, like history, but English is important, and if he needs to be in a class where he will get extra help, than I think that is what is best for him.
If only he could see things the way I do.
It was so much easier when they were little, and school was actually fun for them. Nowadays, the internet is full of games that help little kids learn. You can find all kinds of online math games for kindergarten kids that make learning even more fun. My kids used to love to play Memory, so I did a search for online memory games, and found this site where kids can play a matching game to discover interesting facts. My little nephew is five, and he plays all kinds of games on the computer. It amazes me that kids that age, and even younger, are pros when it comes to the computer.
I wish I could find sites that offer games for kids Ryan's age. He's struggling in English right now. He said his end of course exam in that subject was reading a passage and then answering questions that required him to really comprehend what he had just read. Now, reading has never been his strong suit, and I am at a loss as to how to help him with that. The school has taken notice of his struggling and put him in a remedial class for next semester. He told me he is going to try and get out of it, but I told him not to. I may allow him to slack in other classes, like history, but English is important, and if he needs to be in a class where he will get extra help, than I think that is what is best for him.
If only he could see things the way I do.
Out Of School
My kids are out of school for the next two weeks. Unfortunately, I have to work those two weeks, and I am a little nervous about leaving them home themselves. I am already resigned to the fact that my house will not stay clean. I am also prepared for all the phone calls from Ryan because Brandi and Kasi are fighting. Brandi has become quite the little monster these days, and I have started cautioning Ryan and Kasi to not anger her, because she gets downright mean. I know this isn't very good parenting, but it keeps the peace while I am out on the road.
I am dreading next summer when Ryan is working and the girls will have to be home together every day. I am thinking about sending Brandi to Camp for a week or two (or all summer!) just to keep her busy. Or maybe I'll send Kasi. I know at her age, sleep away camp is a dream, especially if it means getting away from her sister (and me). I remember being 15 and not wanting anything to do with my parents. I used to lock myself in my room with a good book and not come out for anything. I could have been doing worse things (don't even get me started on all the ways my sister spent her turbulent teenaged years!) than reading, and I don't want to give Kasi any reason to rebel. Going away to Overnight Camps could be just the thing she needs to keep her sanity. She's such a good kid. I want her to stay that way.
Of course, if I let her go away for a week or two, Brandi will be Ryan's responsibility, and I'm afraid he might actually tie her up during the day if she starts in with him. Maybe I'll just send them all away and have a quiet summer all to myself. Yeah, that will never happen. I miss them enough when they are with their dad for two nights. I couldn't let them go away for longer than that. They will just have to learn how to get along with each other.
I am dreading next summer when Ryan is working and the girls will have to be home together every day. I am thinking about sending Brandi to Camp for a week or two (or all summer!) just to keep her busy. Or maybe I'll send Kasi. I know at her age, sleep away camp is a dream, especially if it means getting away from her sister (and me). I remember being 15 and not wanting anything to do with my parents. I used to lock myself in my room with a good book and not come out for anything. I could have been doing worse things (don't even get me started on all the ways my sister spent her turbulent teenaged years!) than reading, and I don't want to give Kasi any reason to rebel. Going away to Overnight Camps could be just the thing she needs to keep her sanity. She's such a good kid. I want her to stay that way.
Of course, if I let her go away for a week or two, Brandi will be Ryan's responsibility, and I'm afraid he might actually tie her up during the day if she starts in with him. Maybe I'll just send them all away and have a quiet summer all to myself. Yeah, that will never happen. I miss them enough when they are with their dad for two nights. I couldn't let them go away for longer than that. They will just have to learn how to get along with each other.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Christmas In February
I have been doing a lot of thinking lately about Christmas and how I am unable to get the kids all the things they really want, seeing as how I don't have much money this year. I've told them that to make up for it, I will let them have some money when I get my taxes back in February to buy whatever they want. The girls both want cell phones, but I am not sure that will be possible, since a gift like that comes with a monthly bill that I can not afford. I was thinking I might try to talk them into laptops. Ryan already has one, and the girls are constantly fighting over mine. Having their own would stop the fighting.
Of course I would do some research first to find the best deal. There are Think Geek coupons online that I can use on all kinds of electronic devices and other things, and of course I am sure I could find a Dell coupon or two as well. My computer is a Vaio, and I love it, but it cost me $600, and I am not going to be able to spend that much on my kids. My mom has a Dell, and she has never had a problem with it.
Ryan is going to be harder to buy for. Since he already has a laptop and a cell phone, it will be harder to find something that he wants. He has been talking about an xbox, but if I get that, which I plan on doing, it would be for all of them, not just him. Maybe I will just hand him a ThinkGeek promo code and let him decide what to get for himself. I would give him a price limit, of course. Otherwise, he's likey to spend my entire refund check.
Of course I would do some research first to find the best deal. There are Think Geek coupons online that I can use on all kinds of electronic devices and other things, and of course I am sure I could find a Dell coupon or two as well. My computer is a Vaio, and I love it, but it cost me $600, and I am not going to be able to spend that much on my kids. My mom has a Dell, and she has never had a problem with it.
Ryan is going to be harder to buy for. Since he already has a laptop and a cell phone, it will be harder to find something that he wants. He has been talking about an xbox, but if I get that, which I plan on doing, it would be for all of them, not just him. Maybe I will just hand him a ThinkGeek promo code and let him decide what to get for himself. I would give him a price limit, of course. Otherwise, he's likey to spend my entire refund check.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Mixbook Christmas Card Review
"a leading photo products company that helps people create custom photo books, cards, and calendars. Whether starting from scratch, or using one of our thousands of professionally designed templates, every Mixbook product is 100% customizable. With Mixbook, you can truly Make It Yours™".
The process of making my card was simple enough. I just picked the design I liked and uploaded the pictures I wanted to use. It seriously only took me about ten minutes to finish my card, and I think it came out great. I have to say, though, that with the variety of cards they offer, I had a hard time deciding on the perfect card for my family. I am more into the whimsical than the traditional, but trust me when I say they offer something for everyone. You can even start from scratch and make a card that is completely your own.
If you are looking for an affordable place to order your Christmas cards, check out Mixbook. You can find them on twitter and facebook, too. I love mine, and if you want me to mail one to you, email me your address. Or message me on Facebook.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Making It Special
Today is October first. That means Christmas is less than three months away. It also means that three months from today we will welcome in 2012. Where has this year gone? For me, personally, 2011 has been a year of many firsts. I don't want to get into all of that again, but my loyal readers know all about it. I am looking forward to what 2012 will bring. My 40th birthday and my divorce. What an awesome present to give to myself, right?
But first, I must find a way to get through Christmas. Other than an xbox, the kids really haven't asked for anything specific. They are too old for toys, though I'm pretty sure Santa will bring the game Sorry. We used to have it, and it was my favorite game to play with Brandi. But, during the move, the cards that went with it were lost, and there was really no way to play without them, so we threw the game away.
I am thinking about getting both of my girls some personalized stationery. I know most of you are thinking that with facebook and email, who even writes letters anymore. I think that hand written letters of thanks and even just little notes to let someone know you are thinking about them are awesome, and I want to teach my girls that. Growing up, I used to have several pen pals. I remember going with my grandparents to Christian retreat and making some wonderful friends. I kept in touch with several of them for years simply by writing letters back and forth with them.
I am open to any other ideas for unique gifts, so if you have any, please share. I want to make this first Christmas of it being just the four of us at home a special one, with special gifts.
But first, I must find a way to get through Christmas. Other than an xbox, the kids really haven't asked for anything specific. They are too old for toys, though I'm pretty sure Santa will bring the game Sorry. We used to have it, and it was my favorite game to play with Brandi. But, during the move, the cards that went with it were lost, and there was really no way to play without them, so we threw the game away.
I am thinking about getting both of my girls some personalized stationery. I know most of you are thinking that with facebook and email, who even writes letters anymore. I think that hand written letters of thanks and even just little notes to let someone know you are thinking about them are awesome, and I want to teach my girls that. Growing up, I used to have several pen pals. I remember going with my grandparents to Christian retreat and making some wonderful friends. I kept in touch with several of them for years simply by writing letters back and forth with them.
I am open to any other ideas for unique gifts, so if you have any, please share. I want to make this first Christmas of it being just the four of us at home a special one, with special gifts.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Moving On
The hunt for a new place to rent is on for my little family of four. I really want to be out on my own, and I am getting a little excited about the possibilities that await us. There were things that I would have loved to have done over the years to the places that we have lived, but I never did. Now that I have no one to answer to, I can do things my way.
For instance, I would love to get some of those little solar powered lights that you can put out to line your walkways or driveway. I found these little ladybug lights that Brandi would absolutely flip over. Aren't they cute?
The only thing I am not looking forward to is having to is having to keep up with the house maintenance. Right now, all I have to really keep an eye on is the filter in the a/c unit, because I know what happens when it gets too dirty. The home insulation here is good, too. We made it through a cold winter without having any of our pipes burst, and the house stayed nice and warm. Our power bill may have been a little high, but we survived. I am going to buy some reusable shopping bags, too, just to do my little part to save the environment.
There are going to be many changes in my future, and I am not sure if all of them will be positive ones, but the kids will have to adjust and accept that I am doing the best I can for them. In the end, that is all that will matter.
For instance, I would love to get some of those little solar powered lights that you can put out to line your walkways or driveway. I found these little ladybug lights that Brandi would absolutely flip over. Aren't they cute?
There are going to be many changes in my future, and I am not sure if all of them will be positive ones, but the kids will have to adjust and accept that I am doing the best I can for them. In the end, that is all that will matter.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Hey! How Have You Been?
Me? Oh, I've been great.
Yesterday marked three weeks since my husband left, and I am feeling good about the decisions I have been making for myself. I am still a little worried about how Brandi is handling things, but I also have faith that in time, she will be okay.
I have been busy, which is a nice change for me. I have been doing a lot of driving, and am thinking about taking my driving test in the next few weeks. I'm not going to say anything before, that way if I fail I won't feel too stupid. Today, while driving, I came upon my first license checkpoint. The policeman was so nice. I was impressed that I didn't get all nervous...I was actually laughing with the policeman. I am seriously amazed at my confidence these days.
I'm still swimming most mornings, and I love it. It's not only relaxing...it is also toning me up a bit. This morning we did almost 2 hours. Then we went and had lunch at one of those places where the chef cooks the food right at the table. I've never been to a restaurant like that before. In fact, I have been doing a lot of things I have never done before. It's nice to have friends who can afford to treat me nicely.
For the past 16 years, I have been nothing more than a wife and mother. For those 16 years, I didn't think I needed anything more. I am finding out these days that I also need to be a woman. My kids will always be the most important people in my life, but it's so nice to have adult conversations and hang out with people who expect nothing of me. I love doing what I want, and not having to answer to anyone. I was telling someone the other day that I almost feel like a teenager again, only this time, I am enjoying myself. When I was an actual teenager, I was miserable. These days, I am happy. Seriously happy. Sure, I have my moments where things seem completely overwhelming, but I am living my life one day at a time, and that seems to help.
I need to start packing up my house, but I can't. I feel like if I start, it makes all of this real. I don't want to leave this house...it's my home. Sure, it has some memories in it, but they are happy memories. The kids are looking forward to moving, because they can't deal with the memories. I am looking forward to living with my mom, but I wish I could afford my own place right now. I am craving independence. I know, it seems like I am talking in circles, and that is how I feel most days...like focusing on one thought is just too much. Keeping busy helps with that. Writing here helps a bit, but I find it hard to sit here at the computer. I need to be moving; doing something.
I had an interview last week, but I don't think anything will come of it. I need something that pays more than minimum wage, and until I have a car of my own, I don't really have reliable transportation. I feel like I am trying to do too much too fast, and I need to be taking baby steps. I need to let the kids finish this school year, get settled at my moms...but in the meantime, get a car and a job. I want to be working as soon as possible.
See...this post is exactly how my brain has been working lately. A jumbled up mess of confusion.
Yesterday marked three weeks since my husband left, and I am feeling good about the decisions I have been making for myself. I am still a little worried about how Brandi is handling things, but I also have faith that in time, she will be okay.
I have been busy, which is a nice change for me. I have been doing a lot of driving, and am thinking about taking my driving test in the next few weeks. I'm not going to say anything before, that way if I fail I won't feel too stupid. Today, while driving, I came upon my first license checkpoint. The policeman was so nice. I was impressed that I didn't get all nervous...I was actually laughing with the policeman. I am seriously amazed at my confidence these days.
I'm still swimming most mornings, and I love it. It's not only relaxing...it is also toning me up a bit. This morning we did almost 2 hours. Then we went and had lunch at one of those places where the chef cooks the food right at the table. I've never been to a restaurant like that before. In fact, I have been doing a lot of things I have never done before. It's nice to have friends who can afford to treat me nicely.
For the past 16 years, I have been nothing more than a wife and mother. For those 16 years, I didn't think I needed anything more. I am finding out these days that I also need to be a woman. My kids will always be the most important people in my life, but it's so nice to have adult conversations and hang out with people who expect nothing of me. I love doing what I want, and not having to answer to anyone. I was telling someone the other day that I almost feel like a teenager again, only this time, I am enjoying myself. When I was an actual teenager, I was miserable. These days, I am happy. Seriously happy. Sure, I have my moments where things seem completely overwhelming, but I am living my life one day at a time, and that seems to help.
I need to start packing up my house, but I can't. I feel like if I start, it makes all of this real. I don't want to leave this house...it's my home. Sure, it has some memories in it, but they are happy memories. The kids are looking forward to moving, because they can't deal with the memories. I am looking forward to living with my mom, but I wish I could afford my own place right now. I am craving independence. I know, it seems like I am talking in circles, and that is how I feel most days...like focusing on one thought is just too much. Keeping busy helps with that. Writing here helps a bit, but I find it hard to sit here at the computer. I need to be moving; doing something.
I had an interview last week, but I don't think anything will come of it. I need something that pays more than minimum wage, and until I have a car of my own, I don't really have reliable transportation. I feel like I am trying to do too much too fast, and I need to be taking baby steps. I need to let the kids finish this school year, get settled at my moms...but in the meantime, get a car and a job. I want to be working as soon as possible.
See...this post is exactly how my brain has been working lately. A jumbled up mess of confusion.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Suddenly, The Term "Single Mom" Applies To Me...How The Hell Did That Happen?
For the first time the other day, I referred to myself as just that, a single mom.
It felt weird on my lips.
Just a couple of weeks ago, we were a happy family. Or at least that is what we led everyone to believe. Now, I am here, alone with the kids, trying to find a new normal for us. The older two are doing good, but Brandi still has her moments. Lots of them, actually. Bob and I are both trying to be a supportive as possible, I just think it is going to take her some time to get used to the way things are going to be from now on.
I keep having people ask me if there is a chance of us getting back together. When I tell them no, I usually get the same reaction...disbelief. I wish they would believe me. I know what is in my heart, and while I do still love my husband, it's not enough. I am no longer in love with him, and I know he would say the same about me. And that's okay.
In the past two weeks, I have changed. I am so much more confidant. It's like I found all this self esteem I have had buried deep inside. I am not sitting here, worried about my future. I am doing things to make my future better for me and my kids. I went yesterday and got my permit, and I can not wait to get my license and a car. I am finding that I enjoy driving, and I am good at it. My friend let me drive her around all day yesterday. I have been applying for jobs...I just hate this having to wait for phone calls. I really want to have my own money coming in so that I don't have to depend on Bob so much.
I know I have tons of support from all of you, but please understand that I do not want to talk about what actually led up to Bob leaving. If you really want all the juicy details (though you will probably be disappointed) email or message me. I am going to try really hard to not let this turn into a "the road to divorce" blog....it is still going to be about my babies, who are no longer babies.
For tonight, though, I am shipping the kids to their dad's so I can go out and have some fun....and I am really looking forward to it. I deserve a little happiness.
It felt weird on my lips.
Just a couple of weeks ago, we were a happy family. Or at least that is what we led everyone to believe. Now, I am here, alone with the kids, trying to find a new normal for us. The older two are doing good, but Brandi still has her moments. Lots of them, actually. Bob and I are both trying to be a supportive as possible, I just think it is going to take her some time to get used to the way things are going to be from now on.
I keep having people ask me if there is a chance of us getting back together. When I tell them no, I usually get the same reaction...disbelief. I wish they would believe me. I know what is in my heart, and while I do still love my husband, it's not enough. I am no longer in love with him, and I know he would say the same about me. And that's okay.
In the past two weeks, I have changed. I am so much more confidant. It's like I found all this self esteem I have had buried deep inside. I am not sitting here, worried about my future. I am doing things to make my future better for me and my kids. I went yesterday and got my permit, and I can not wait to get my license and a car. I am finding that I enjoy driving, and I am good at it. My friend let me drive her around all day yesterday. I have been applying for jobs...I just hate this having to wait for phone calls. I really want to have my own money coming in so that I don't have to depend on Bob so much.
I know I have tons of support from all of you, but please understand that I do not want to talk about what actually led up to Bob leaving. If you really want all the juicy details (though you will probably be disappointed) email or message me. I am going to try really hard to not let this turn into a "the road to divorce" blog....it is still going to be about my babies, who are no longer babies.
For tonight, though, I am shipping the kids to their dad's so I can go out and have some fun....and I am really looking forward to it. I deserve a little happiness.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Spelling
In the past couple of months, both of my girls entered their school spelling bees. Brandi didn't make it past her class spelling bee because of her nerves. She knew how to spell the word, but when she saw all the other kids looking at her, she blanked. Kasi made it on to the school spelling bee, and was eliminated after a few rounds. I am so proud of both of them. They do so well in school without really having to try.
My son, however, struggles for every good grade. The thought of entering a spelling bee has probably never even entered his mind. Trust me when I say he is a horrible speller. For instance, I started a grocery list, and the kids have been adding to it, and last night I noticed that someone had put on there "etable husband, aka choco". He meant to write "edible" (he's quite the comedian...he thinks chocolate will take the place of Bob...silly boy...it has to have peanut butter in it to do that! lol).
I found a site online called bigIQkids where he can practice his spelling, and I know he loves doing anything on the computer. This site is cool because I can either select from an existing list of words or I can make my own list for him. He can study the words and then test himself. They have words for kids of every age, too.
I know I have to do something to get him to spell better.
My son, however, struggles for every good grade. The thought of entering a spelling bee has probably never even entered his mind. Trust me when I say he is a horrible speller. For instance, I started a grocery list, and the kids have been adding to it, and last night I noticed that someone had put on there "etable husband, aka choco". He meant to write "edible" (he's quite the comedian...he thinks chocolate will take the place of Bob...silly boy...it has to have peanut butter in it to do that! lol).
I found a site online called bigIQkids where he can practice his spelling, and I know he loves doing anything on the computer. This site is cool because I can either select from an existing list of words or I can make my own list for him. He can study the words and then test himself. They have words for kids of every age, too.
I know I have to do something to get him to spell better.
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