If you read my post the other day, you know how frustrated I get with pretty much anyone who isn't (or hasn't been in the past) a stay at home mom. I mentioned how it is the only job where the benefits are delayed by about 20 years. Here is another story that offers a little encouragement for sticking with it (when sometimes you just want to go get a job at McDonald's because at least you'd get a 15 minute break every couple of hours and you could pee without someone sitting in your lap!)
WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING
Written by a former child
A message every adult should read, because children are watching you and doing as you do, not as you say.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.
When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make my favorite cake for me and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life.
When you thought I wasn't looking I heard you say a prayer, and I knew there is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in God.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care of each other.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and money to help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have something should give to those who don't.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you cared and I wanted to be everything that I could be.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I looked at you and wanted to say, "Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking."
Monday, April 23, 2007
Letter from Ben Stein
I don't know if Ben Stein actually wrote this letter. It has a "published" date on it, but I don't know where it was published. I am putting in on here anyway, because even if it wasn't Ben Stein, SOMEONE felt this way, because SOMEONE wrote it. I think it is a great letter. I know that lots (most) Americans love and respect the military servicemen and women, but it is cool to see it in print. (On a personal note, I actually think Oprah Winfrey does a lot of good in the world. She's no soldier, but she does do a lot of good from her place in the world.)
Dear Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, National Guard, Reservists, in Iraq, in the Middle East theater, in Afghanistan, in the area near Afghanistan, in any base anywhere in the world, and your families:
Let me tell you about why you guys own about 90 percent of the cojones in the whole world right now and should be damned happy with yourselves and damned proud of who you are.
It was a dazzlingly hot day here in Rancho Mirage today. I did small errands like going to the bank to pay my mortgage, finding a new bed at a price I can afford, practicing driving with my new 5 wood, paying bills for about two hours. I spoke for a long time to a woman who is going through a nasty child custody fight. I got e-mails from a woman who was fired today from her job for not paying attention. I read about multi-billion-dollar mergers in Europe, Asia, and the Mideast. I noticed how overweight I am, for the millionth time. In other words, I did a lot of nothing. Like every other American who is not in the armed forces family, I basically just rearranged the deck chairs on the Titanic in my trivial, self-important, meaningless way.
Above all, I talked to a friend of more than forty-three years who told me he thought his life had no meaning because all he did was count his money. And, friends in the armed forces, this is the story of all of America today. We are doing nothing but treading water while you guys carry on the life or death struggle against worldwide militant Islamic terrorism. Our lives are about nothing: paying bills, going to humdrum jobs, waiting until we can go to sleep and then do it all again. Our most vivid issues are trivia compared with what you do every day, every minute, every second.
Oprah Winfrey talks a lot about "meaning" in life. For her, "meaning" is dieting and then having her photo on the cover of her magazine every single month (surely a new world record for egomania).This is not "meaning." Meaning is doing for others. Meaning is risking your life for others. Meaning is putting your bodies and families' peace of mind on the line to defeat some of the most evil, sick killers the world hasever known. Meaning is leaving the comfort of home to fight to make sure that there still will be a home for your family and for your nation and for free men and women everywhere.
Look, soldiers and Marines and sailors and airmen and Coast Guardsmen, there are eight billion people in this world. The whole fate of this world turns on what you people, 1.4 million, more or less, do every day. The fate of mankind depends on what about 2/100 of one percent of the people in this world do every day -- and you are those people. And joining you is every policeman, fireman, and EMT in the country, also holding back the tide of chaos.
Do you know how important you are? Do you know how indispensable you are? Do you know how humbly grateful any of us who has a head on his shoulders is to you? Do you know that if you never do another thing in your lives, you will always still be heroes? That we could live without Hollywood or Wall Street or the NFL, but we cannot live for a week without you?
We are on our knees to you and we bless and pray for you everymoment. And Oprah Winfrey, if she were a size two, would not have one millionth of your importance, and all of the Wall Street billionaires will never mean what the least of you do, and if Barry Bonds hit ninety home runs it would not mean as much as you going on one patrol or driving one truck to the Baghdad airport.
You are everything to us, as we go through our little days, and you are in the prayers of the nation and of every decent man and woman on the planet. That's who you are and what you mean. I hope you know that.
Love,
Ben Stein
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE
Dear Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, National Guard, Reservists, in Iraq, in the Middle East theater, in Afghanistan, in the area near Afghanistan, in any base anywhere in the world, and your families:
Let me tell you about why you guys own about 90 percent of the cojones in the whole world right now and should be damned happy with yourselves and damned proud of who you are.
It was a dazzlingly hot day here in Rancho Mirage today. I did small errands like going to the bank to pay my mortgage, finding a new bed at a price I can afford, practicing driving with my new 5 wood, paying bills for about two hours. I spoke for a long time to a woman who is going through a nasty child custody fight. I got e-mails from a woman who was fired today from her job for not paying attention. I read about multi-billion-dollar mergers in Europe, Asia, and the Mideast. I noticed how overweight I am, for the millionth time. In other words, I did a lot of nothing. Like every other American who is not in the armed forces family, I basically just rearranged the deck chairs on the Titanic in my trivial, self-important, meaningless way.
Above all, I talked to a friend of more than forty-three years who told me he thought his life had no meaning because all he did was count his money. And, friends in the armed forces, this is the story of all of America today. We are doing nothing but treading water while you guys carry on the life or death struggle against worldwide militant Islamic terrorism. Our lives are about nothing: paying bills, going to humdrum jobs, waiting until we can go to sleep and then do it all again. Our most vivid issues are trivia compared with what you do every day, every minute, every second.
Oprah Winfrey talks a lot about "meaning" in life. For her, "meaning" is dieting and then having her photo on the cover of her magazine every single month (surely a new world record for egomania).This is not "meaning." Meaning is doing for others. Meaning is risking your life for others. Meaning is putting your bodies and families' peace of mind on the line to defeat some of the most evil, sick killers the world hasever known. Meaning is leaving the comfort of home to fight to make sure that there still will be a home for your family and for your nation and for free men and women everywhere.
Look, soldiers and Marines and sailors and airmen and Coast Guardsmen, there are eight billion people in this world. The whole fate of this world turns on what you people, 1.4 million, more or less, do every day. The fate of mankind depends on what about 2/100 of one percent of the people in this world do every day -- and you are those people. And joining you is every policeman, fireman, and EMT in the country, also holding back the tide of chaos.
Do you know how important you are? Do you know how indispensable you are? Do you know how humbly grateful any of us who has a head on his shoulders is to you? Do you know that if you never do another thing in your lives, you will always still be heroes? That we could live without Hollywood or Wall Street or the NFL, but we cannot live for a week without you?
We are on our knees to you and we bless and pray for you everymoment. And Oprah Winfrey, if she were a size two, would not have one millionth of your importance, and all of the Wall Street billionaires will never mean what the least of you do, and if Barry Bonds hit ninety home runs it would not mean as much as you going on one patrol or driving one truck to the Baghdad airport.
You are everything to us, as we go through our little days, and you are in the prayers of the nation and of every decent man and woman on the planet. That's who you are and what you mean. I hope you know that.
Love,
Ben Stein
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE
Today's Sports Activities
Both kids had sports at the same time today, so I dropped N. off at his game and took R. to practice. S. was to arrive at the baseball game a few minutes later, so I only worried about N. being there alone (with his coaches and the rest of his team) for about 20 minutes!
J. decided to wear R's cowboy boots to soccer practice. It was cute, although they are about 3 sizes too big for R--so 4 sizes too big for J. We always keep R's cleats in the back of the van, so we put on the socks and shin guards and off we went. Got to practice and guess what. . .no cleats! GREAT! S. took them out of the van after Saturday's game because they were muddy. . .no one told me!!!
Now--here's the really bad part--we were running late for Saturday's game, so we were in a hurry to get in the van. I had a ton of stuff in my hands--shin guards, my shoes, snacks, drinks, diaper bag, etc. We got to the game and guess what. . .yes we had the cleats--we didn't have MY SHOES! I thought I had them, but it was R's cleats in my hands! So, I walked around the game (in squishy mud) barefooted.
Then we get to practice today and I have done the same thing to my son! I tried to talk him into wearing the "street shoes" of one of his team mates, but since they were pink and said "princess" he refused. I told him the only other choice was to go barefooted or go home and he started to hysterically cry. So, I put the cowboy boots on him (over the shin guards--good thing they are so big) and sent him to the field with another mom while I went to the MCX to get him some shoes. There were none there that were $5 or less, which was all I was willing to pay for one practice. So, he finished the whole practice in boots. He was also wearing a flourescent orange penny, which comes to his ankles--so he was quite cute.
We got to N's game about 30 minutes before it was over. Guess what we missed? N hit a GRAND SLAM!!! Can you believe it? S said it was the most amazing hit. I did get to see him hit once and it was good too, but I sure would have loved to see the grand slam. He got the game ball for the evening.
So--that is a basic rundown of everyday of our lives. Not always the same issues (although we seem to be missing shoes a lot) but continuous craziness! I love it!!!!
J. decided to wear R's cowboy boots to soccer practice. It was cute, although they are about 3 sizes too big for R--so 4 sizes too big for J. We always keep R's cleats in the back of the van, so we put on the socks and shin guards and off we went. Got to practice and guess what. . .no cleats! GREAT! S. took them out of the van after Saturday's game because they were muddy. . .no one told me!!!
Now--here's the really bad part--we were running late for Saturday's game, so we were in a hurry to get in the van. I had a ton of stuff in my hands--shin guards, my shoes, snacks, drinks, diaper bag, etc. We got to the game and guess what. . .yes we had the cleats--we didn't have MY SHOES! I thought I had them, but it was R's cleats in my hands! So, I walked around the game (in squishy mud) barefooted.
Then we get to practice today and I have done the same thing to my son! I tried to talk him into wearing the "street shoes" of one of his team mates, but since they were pink and said "princess" he refused. I told him the only other choice was to go barefooted or go home and he started to hysterically cry. So, I put the cowboy boots on him (over the shin guards--good thing they are so big) and sent him to the field with another mom while I went to the MCX to get him some shoes. There were none there that were $5 or less, which was all I was willing to pay for one practice. So, he finished the whole practice in boots. He was also wearing a flourescent orange penny, which comes to his ankles--so he was quite cute.
We got to N's game about 30 minutes before it was over. Guess what we missed? N hit a GRAND SLAM!!! Can you believe it? S said it was the most amazing hit. I did get to see him hit once and it was good too, but I sure would have loved to see the grand slam. He got the game ball for the evening.
So--that is a basic rundown of everyday of our lives. Not always the same issues (although we seem to be missing shoes a lot) but continuous craziness! I love it!!!!
California
A while back, I posted some comments about living in (or being from) Texas. Now, I have some about California. Like before, I have highlighted the ones that particularly apply around my area.
1. Your coworker has 8 body piercings and none are visible.
2. You make over $300,000 and still can't afford a house.
3. You take a bus and are shocked at two people carrying on a conversation in English.
4. Your child's 3rd-grade teacher has purple hair, a nose ring, and is named Flower.
5. You can't remember . . is pot illegal?
6. You've been to a baby shower that has two mothers and a sperm donor.
7. You have a very strong opinion about where your coffee beans are grown, and you can taste the difference between Sumatran and Ethiopian.
8 You can't remember . . . is pot illegal?
9. A really great parking space can totally move you to tears.
10. Gas costs $1.00 per gallon more than anywhere else in the U.S.
11. Unlike back home, the guy at 8:30 am at Starbucks wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses who looks like George Clooney really IS George Clooney.
12. Your car insurance costs as much as your house payment.
13. You can't remember . . .is pot illegal?
14. It's barely sprinkling rain and there's a report on every news station: "STORM WATCH."
15. You pass an elementary school playground and the children are all busy with their cells or pagers.
16. It's barely sprinkling rain outside, so you leave for work an hour early to avoid all the weather-related accidents.
17. HEY!!!! Is pot illegal????
18. Both you AND your dog have therapists, psychics, personal trainers and cosmetic surgeons.
19. The Terminator is your governor.
20. If you drive illegally, they take your driver's license. If you're here illegally, they want to give you one.
1. Your coworker has 8 body piercings and none are visible.
2. You make over $300,000 and still can't afford a house.
3. You take a bus and are shocked at two people carrying on a conversation in English.
4. Your child's 3rd-grade teacher has purple hair, a nose ring, and is named Flower.
5. You can't remember . . is pot illegal?
6. You've been to a baby shower that has two mothers and a sperm donor.
7. You have a very strong opinion about where your coffee beans are grown, and you can taste the difference between Sumatran and Ethiopian.
8 You can't remember . . . is pot illegal?
9. A really great parking space can totally move you to tears.
10. Gas costs $1.00 per gallon more than anywhere else in the U.S.
11. Unlike back home, the guy at 8:30 am at Starbucks wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses who looks like George Clooney really IS George Clooney.
12. Your car insurance costs as much as your house payment.
13. You can't remember . . .is pot illegal?
14. It's barely sprinkling rain and there's a report on every news station: "STORM WATCH."
15. You pass an elementary school playground and the children are all busy with their cells or pagers.
16. It's barely sprinkling rain outside, so you leave for work an hour early to avoid all the weather-related accidents.
17. HEY!!!! Is pot illegal????
18. Both you AND your dog have therapists, psychics, personal trainers and cosmetic surgeons.
19. The Terminator is your governor.
20. If you drive illegally, they take your driver's license. If you're here illegally, they want to give you one.
Baby W is here!!!
My brother and sister-in-law (and niece) have a new member of the family! He was born today, April 23 at 12:44 Texas time. He weighs 7 lbs. 7 ozs. and is 20 1/4 inches long!! As you can see, his big sister is very excited to have him here!!!
Friday, April 20, 2007
My Favorite Story
You know how people always say (patronizingly) how "being a stay at home mom is the hardest job in the world." And then they say "I don't know how you do it. I just couldn't. . ." But you can tell by their faces that they are really thinking that you are a lazy bum that doesn't contribute to society and that you are SO LUCKY that you GET to stay home and do nothing all day?
You know how your husband always SAYS how he is so amazed by you and what a great job you do with the kids, but then he comes in the door at the end of the day and makes a face at the fact that there are toys on the floor?
Well, I have a response to that--which is this: When was the last time you mopped the floor at your office? Just because this building contains my job, doesn't mean it is my job. Your office building isn't your job--there's a cleaning service for that. This house isn't my job--the kids are. Get me a cleaning service if it is that important to you. And--while yes, you may have had a long day at work--at least it's freakin' over! Mine started at the same time yours did, and it still has a good 5 hours to go by the time you walk in the door.
My husband (the one who is literally climbing the walls on Sunday afternoon because he has been home for 2 days) said not long ago that "it wouldn't be that hard" for him to stay home with the kids. I absolutely disagree, but obviously that won't ever be tested.
Anyway--this is my favorite story that illustrates what I am talking about when I say "I spend the entire day picking up and cleaning up. It takes 5 hours to clean my house and 20 seconds to make it a disaster area again. That 20 seconds is usually taking place at the same time that I am trying to clean in the first place!"
To all the stay home moms out there--I quote my friend VN--"It is absolutely a full time job. It's just that the benefits are delayed by about 20 years and the pay sucks!"
Here's the story:
A man came home from work and found his three children outside, still in
their pajamas, playing in the mud, with empty food boxes and wrappers
strewn all around the front yard.
The door of his wife's car was open, as was the front door to the house
and there was no sign of the dog. Proceeding into the entry, he found an
even bigger mess. A lamp had been knocked over, and the throw rug was
wadded against one wall. In the front room the TV was loudly blaring a
cartoon channel, and the family room was strewn with toys and various
items of clothing.
In the kitchen, dishes filled the sink, breakfast food was spilled on
the counter, the fridge door was open wide, dog food was spilled on the
floor, a broken glass lay under the table, and a small pile of sand was
spread by the back door. He quickly headed up the stairs, stepping over
toys and more piles of clothes, looking for his wife. He was worried she
might be ill, or that something serious had happened.
He was met with a small trickle of water as it made its way out the
bathroom door. As he peered inside he found wet towels, scummy soap and
more toys strewn over the floor. Miles of toilet paper lay in a heap and
toothpaste had been smeared over the mirror and walls.
As he rushed to the bedroom, he found his wife still curled up in the
bed in her pajamas, reading a novel. She looked up at him, smiled, and
asked how his day went. He looked at her bewildered and asked, "What
happened here today?" She again smiled and answered, "You know every day
when you come home from work and you ask me what in the world I do all
day?"
"Yes," was his incredulous reply.
She answered, "Well, today I didn't do it."
You know how your husband always SAYS how he is so amazed by you and what a great job you do with the kids, but then he comes in the door at the end of the day and makes a face at the fact that there are toys on the floor?
Well, I have a response to that--which is this: When was the last time you mopped the floor at your office? Just because this building contains my job, doesn't mean it is my job. Your office building isn't your job--there's a cleaning service for that. This house isn't my job--the kids are. Get me a cleaning service if it is that important to you. And--while yes, you may have had a long day at work--at least it's freakin' over! Mine started at the same time yours did, and it still has a good 5 hours to go by the time you walk in the door.
My husband (the one who is literally climbing the walls on Sunday afternoon because he has been home for 2 days) said not long ago that "it wouldn't be that hard" for him to stay home with the kids. I absolutely disagree, but obviously that won't ever be tested.
Anyway--this is my favorite story that illustrates what I am talking about when I say "I spend the entire day picking up and cleaning up. It takes 5 hours to clean my house and 20 seconds to make it a disaster area again. That 20 seconds is usually taking place at the same time that I am trying to clean in the first place!"
To all the stay home moms out there--I quote my friend VN--"It is absolutely a full time job. It's just that the benefits are delayed by about 20 years and the pay sucks!"
Here's the story:
A man came home from work and found his three children outside, still in
their pajamas, playing in the mud, with empty food boxes and wrappers
strewn all around the front yard.
The door of his wife's car was open, as was the front door to the house
and there was no sign of the dog. Proceeding into the entry, he found an
even bigger mess. A lamp had been knocked over, and the throw rug was
wadded against one wall. In the front room the TV was loudly blaring a
cartoon channel, and the family room was strewn with toys and various
items of clothing.
In the kitchen, dishes filled the sink, breakfast food was spilled on
the counter, the fridge door was open wide, dog food was spilled on the
floor, a broken glass lay under the table, and a small pile of sand was
spread by the back door. He quickly headed up the stairs, stepping over
toys and more piles of clothes, looking for his wife. He was worried she
might be ill, or that something serious had happened.
He was met with a small trickle of water as it made its way out the
bathroom door. As he peered inside he found wet towels, scummy soap and
more toys strewn over the floor. Miles of toilet paper lay in a heap and
toothpaste had been smeared over the mirror and walls.
As he rushed to the bedroom, he found his wife still curled up in the
bed in her pajamas, reading a novel. She looked up at him, smiled, and
asked how his day went. He looked at her bewildered and asked, "What
happened here today?" She again smiled and answered, "You know every day
when you come home from work and you ask me what in the world I do all
day?"
"Yes," was his incredulous reply.
She answered, "Well, today I didn't do it."
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Soccer
R. gets better at soccer each time he is on the field. He really enjoys playing--in fact, yesterday, the battery on my car was dead (a ridiculous story) and he was in a PANIC telling me he HAD to get to practice!
Although I am sure that you think I am biased--the fact is that this kid is SMART. He is the smallest kid on his team, and probably the youngest--but he is one of two who actually understand what is going on. I'm not kidding--the other 8 kids either sit down, try to trip kids running by, pick the ball up and run away with it, or they actually just leave the field. At one point in Saturday's game, the ball (and therefore all 16 kids on the field) came over to our sideline. 3 of the kids on our team kept running--all the way off the field and to their parents to ask for a snack!! Crazy!
Anyway--R. really loves it. He understands the concept of where the ball is supposed to go, and he is starting to understand the concept of working with another member of his team to pass it back and forth to get to the goal. (As opposed to what most kids at this age think of soccer--they are solely responsible for themselves and kick it as many times as possible. It is like having 16 teams on the field!)
The only thing that holds him back is that he is smaller, so therefore not as quick. Several of the kids on his team will turn 6 this summer. That is a year and a half older than him! At this age, that is quite a difference! He doesn't seem to be bothered by it though. I think he makes up for it by knowing where to go. He may not be the fastest, but when the fastest kids are chasing airplanes and picking flowers, he can get to the ball a fair share of times!
He is not afraid of the ball, or of the other kids running into him or over him. He gets right in the middle of the pack and swings his legs around with the rest of them!
His coach says he is amazed by how well R. talks. People are always surprised, because he has the voice of a 4 year old, but the vocabulary of a 14 year old! (I TOLD you he was a genius!!) Anyway--we love the coach too. R. thinks he is the coolest thing ever. He tells his friends at preschool, "My coach is a Marine. He's 19 years old, and he was in high school when I was born!"
Baseball!!
This is a video of the GREAT game that N. played on Saturday! You can see him a lot in the video, because he had so many awesome plays! On the video counter at the bottom right corner--at 2:51 he bats, 2:39-running bases, 1:31 AND 1:26 throwing out 2 batters at first base, and 1:10 a great hit! You can also hear his daddy quite a few times and see him for a second--he coaches 3rd base when we hit, and coaches in the outfield when we're in the field!
Sunday, March 25, 2007
WHEEL!!
Well. . .it's done. I was on Wheel of Fortune. If you want to know when my show airs, email me and I'll give you the date. I did really well--I didn't get to the bonus round, but not because I didn't play well. . .it was one of those luck of the spin things. . .you'll see when you watch it.
The whole experience was really really fun. We were there all day (they taped 5 shows!) and I thought I would be exhausted, but the day went by so fast! I was in the very last show! S., N., my mom, my friend L, and my friends/neighbors C, C, and P came. P is close to N's age, so that was good--they got antsy having to be there for 7 hours, but it probably would have been worse if they didn't have each other!
For me. . .the day flew by. We did some rehearsal stuff, some legal stuff, etc. We got to know each other pretty well, which was nice, because we were all really excited for each other to win. My group (of course I'm biased) was so great! We all did well and we were all so happy for each other. I think that really helped with the nerves, because you didn't have to worry about someone trying to kill you!
They have all these great coaches (I'm not sure what their title is--we called them "Life Coaches") that really get you prepared for what is going to happen. Although, I can tell you that there is a good reason that the people on the show don't solve it as fast as you do at home! You have SO many things to think about. . .don't look at the wheel, only look at the puzzle. Clap for everyone, but don't clap loud, and don't clap near your chest or your face, be excited, be moving all the time--don't stand still. Talk with a loud, clear voice, but don't shout. Ennunciate your words, so they hear you correctly, wait for Pat to say the dollar amount before you talk. Don't say "please" or "I'd like a. . ." just say the letter, don't say you want to spin--just spin. Don't take too long, use vowels, think about "logical letters" and "letter groups," don't look at the crowd, keep things moving. . .etc. etc. etc. It's a lot of pressure for people who are not used to being on TV.
I did screw one thing up. It added about 30 minutes to the taping time. I knew I would embarrass myself, but fortunately, they can edit it together and fix it, so instead of being an idiot on national television, I'm just an idiot in front of the 3000 people in the studio audience. The other two contestants were so nice about it, and so were the producers and Pat. (The Executive Producer came out to explain to us what was going to happen--I was so scared. I just KNEW they were going to kick me off the show!) I will explain more after the show airs--I don't want to give anything away! The other two contestants kept telling me it was OK, and Pat said "Don't worry--in the list of screwups--you're WAY down at the bottom." That actually made me feel a lot better!
All in all, I had a GREAT time. I won some great stuff and I can't wait 'til it airs, because I want to see it--I'm not sure what all happened! I am glad that I didn't get the bonus round, because none of the letters I would have called would have been up there. The girl who went called good letters, and she won it. The only thing that made me sad was that S. and N. didn't get to be on TV. But, then I would have had to explain that to R. when we watched the show, so maybe it was for the best!
So, watch for me on TV, and look for me to be traveling soon--that's all the hint I'll give ya!
The whole experience was really really fun. We were there all day (they taped 5 shows!) and I thought I would be exhausted, but the day went by so fast! I was in the very last show! S., N., my mom, my friend L, and my friends/neighbors C, C, and P came. P is close to N's age, so that was good--they got antsy having to be there for 7 hours, but it probably would have been worse if they didn't have each other!
For me. . .the day flew by. We did some rehearsal stuff, some legal stuff, etc. We got to know each other pretty well, which was nice, because we were all really excited for each other to win. My group (of course I'm biased) was so great! We all did well and we were all so happy for each other. I think that really helped with the nerves, because you didn't have to worry about someone trying to kill you!
They have all these great coaches (I'm not sure what their title is--we called them "Life Coaches") that really get you prepared for what is going to happen. Although, I can tell you that there is a good reason that the people on the show don't solve it as fast as you do at home! You have SO many things to think about. . .don't look at the wheel, only look at the puzzle. Clap for everyone, but don't clap loud, and don't clap near your chest or your face, be excited, be moving all the time--don't stand still. Talk with a loud, clear voice, but don't shout. Ennunciate your words, so they hear you correctly, wait for Pat to say the dollar amount before you talk. Don't say "please" or "I'd like a. . ." just say the letter, don't say you want to spin--just spin. Don't take too long, use vowels, think about "logical letters" and "letter groups," don't look at the crowd, keep things moving. . .etc. etc. etc. It's a lot of pressure for people who are not used to being on TV.
I did screw one thing up. It added about 30 minutes to the taping time. I knew I would embarrass myself, but fortunately, they can edit it together and fix it, so instead of being an idiot on national television, I'm just an idiot in front of the 3000 people in the studio audience. The other two contestants were so nice about it, and so were the producers and Pat. (The Executive Producer came out to explain to us what was going to happen--I was so scared. I just KNEW they were going to kick me off the show!) I will explain more after the show airs--I don't want to give anything away! The other two contestants kept telling me it was OK, and Pat said "Don't worry--in the list of screwups--you're WAY down at the bottom." That actually made me feel a lot better!
All in all, I had a GREAT time. I won some great stuff and I can't wait 'til it airs, because I want to see it--I'm not sure what all happened! I am glad that I didn't get the bonus round, because none of the letters I would have called would have been up there. The girl who went called good letters, and she won it. The only thing that made me sad was that S. and N. didn't get to be on TV. But, then I would have had to explain that to R. when we watched the show, so maybe it was for the best!
So, watch for me on TV, and look for me to be traveling soon--that's all the hint I'll give ya!
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Post #100
I noticed on the "Dashboard" that this is my 100th post. It seems as though it should be something profound. I can't come up with anything. So, I'm going to try to get onto "paper" a sort of jumble of thoughts about my kids that I've been processing since a few months after J was born.
Here's what I think. Three boys is just perfect for me. There is no comparison between the sexes. I'm sure that there will eventually be comparisons between the three of them--that makes sense because they are all boys, so you'd think they'd be similar. But, so far, they are so DIFFERENT that it is almost impossible to make comparisions--other than to point out the differences!
There are pros and cons to being the oldest, youngest, or middle child. But, from a mom's perspective, here's how I feel about it. Or about them. Like I said, it is a jumble of thoughts. . .kind of a list of adjectives of my feelings for each of them. Or events that surround each of them, or something. I'm not sure.
N. First child. Everything, starting with the pregnancy, brings excitment, fear, enthusiasm, and a constant desire to see and do whatever is coming next. A constant sense of wonder that this child is, everyday, an older child than I've ever parented. That sounds stupid, I know, but it means something in my heart. I'm in awe of him all the time. He tries things, and is suddenly an expert. He thinks of things and suddenly creates them. He is amazing. Constant wonder.
R. Second child. I am able to relax. Knowing things will not end in tragedy or injury (most of the time) I am able to enjoy them more quickly, since I don't have to conquer the nerves! Instant joy, because before he starts something, or sees something, or knows it is going to happen--I know how much he is going to love it. Or how much he will hate it--and even that is joyful to me. . .just seeing him be his own person and develop what that means. He feels things so deeply, this boy. He is reflective and intense. He thinks much deeper than other children his age--much deeper than many people much older than him. Because of that, there is very little in his world that is "so-so." He loves things extremely, and he dislikes other things completely. And, I love seeing him decide which is which! Constant joy.
J. Third child. Last child. Smiles with tears. Fascinating that the third of three boys could still find a way to be TOTALLY different. He surprises me with his speed, his strength, his total disregard for any rule whatsoever! I watch everything he does, every milestone he reaches, knowing it will be the last time there is a "first time." If I think of it long enough, it makes me cry. Not because I want another one, just because they are all growing up. I'm fascinated that at 2, I can already look back at things that are never to be again. I know this sentimental side of myself, and refuse to let it impede him. He'll never feel from me a sense of holding on, wishing him still a baby--but it will be in the back of my head! There is such a sense of contentment in me with J. When he was 3 hours old, I knew my family was complete. Just looking in his eyes--I knew it. He is such a tangible force! He is expressive without restraint. Laughing, crying, being an irritation to his brothers--he does it all with total abandon! I hope he never loses that. I am fascinated by people who are so completely comfortable with themselves that they have no need to hide. I think J is that way. Constant fascination.
Soccer
For some reason, N. never seemed too young to me when he played sports. He started playing soccer at 3, and it seemed like he was big enough. Yesterday was R's first day of soccer practice. He seemed so tiny!! He had a good time, but boy, is his team nuts! It truly was, as S. says, "like herding cats."
The practice went well, and at the end they sort of had a scrimmage. Keep in mind that they have no concept of the fact that there are boundary lines of any sort--they aren't drawn on the field, and how could they imagine them? They don't even know they are supposed to be there! Anyway--several of the kids (including R) would kick the ball several times, get frustrated that it wasn't going the direction that they wanted, and either pick it up and turn it around or just give it a shove with their fist. That was funny.
When the scrimmage was over, R came off the field and I could see the tears coming. I knew it was going to happen. "Mommy! They wouldn't let me score a goal!" Then, sobs. It was horrible. But, I did have a moment of feeling like a good parent. I sat down on the grass with him and explained that when you're on a team, if one person gets a goal, the whole team gets a goal. It is just as important to be the one who kicks the ball to the guy who scores, as it is to be the one who scores.
I reminded him that he kicked the ball into the game from the goal line and took the ball all the way down the field all by himself (really--he had 5 or 6 great kicks--no one could catch him, and he went straight for his goal!). When he got to his goal, no one stole the ball from him. He "passed" the ball to his teammate and he scored! So, really, he and R both scored. It's called teamwork. He loved that idea.
I made a big deal of how he is a great ball handler and you have to be very brave and very fast and have really good coordination to go all the way down the field. I told him that Daddy and N can't do it. (That's stretching it a bit, but it made him feel better!) In the car, I called S. and told him all about it while R could hear me. When we got home, I started telling N how great R played and by that time, R was so excited and proud of himself that he finished the story for me. So, his love of soccer is still intact for now.
He really is a good ball handler. He has good hand/eye coordination. It is interesting that already he has different skills and abilities than N. It's only the first practice, but it is the first time he's ever played an "organized" (term used loosely!) sport. And, he looks totally different than N. does when he plays something.
It was a strange feeling to watch R play. A feeling I get in a lot of situations with him. It is not nerve racking for me, like it is when N does something new, because I have been through it before with the older brother. I just have this amazing sense of excitment for him. I have that for N too, but it takes a while to get through the nerves and get to the excitement. With R, I can just smile and enjoy the beauty of seeing him go through a new experience. I wonder if it will be that way when he does something that N hasn't ever done. . .always something to ponder. . .
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Baseball Video
This is a video from N's baseball game yesterday. I don't know how to shorten it to just the part of him, so you have to watch for a little while. We are the team in the white jersies. You'll see several of our batters, then a couple of blue jersey batters. After that, he is the next batter in white. Anyway--at the beginning, it sounds like they are calling the first batter by N's name. That's not him. It is a kid with the same name with a K instead of N.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Baseball Player
N's first game was yesterday. This is his first season to play out of Tball (we missed last year because of the moving process--we were too late for signups!) Anyway--I have been pretty nervous about it. . .what if he didn't hit (they use a pitching machine), what if he struck out, what if he couldn't catch the ball, blah blah. Can you believe that? I can just hear him when he's playing ball in high school "Mom, you're going to have to settle down. You're making me nervous. Maybe you shouldn't come to the game. . ."
I didn't actually SAY any of that stuff. I just thought it. I want him to LOVE sports. I don't particularly care if he's GREAT at it, I just want him to love it enough to keep playing. I think you learn so much from participating in team sports. Ok, so--
As with soccer, we have wonderful coaches (actually, the head soccer coach is one of the assistant baseball coaches--that's the only reason we agreed to let him play. . .remember the fiasco with soccer all stars?) So, they are so great. They have this amazing system so that each kid truly is a star. No one is better or worse than anyone else. I suppose a kid could get down on himself if he never got a hit, but they have even got that pretty much handled. They do strike out once in a while, it is baseball after all, but they are great at setting the machine for each kid, and they have taught them well.
As with soccer, we have wonderful coaches (actually, the head soccer coach is one of the assistant baseball coaches--that's the only reason we agreed to let him play. . .remember the fiasco with soccer all stars?) So, they are so great. They have this amazing system so that each kid truly is a star. No one is better or worse than anyone else. I suppose a kid could get down on himself if he never got a hit, but they have even got that pretty much handled. They do strike out once in a while, it is baseball after all, but they are great at setting the machine for each kid, and they have taught them well.
They bat in jersey number order. This game, player #1 was the first batter. Next game, #2 (N.) will lead off. Going on and on through the season. Everyone gets a chance to be first. Everyone's first at bat, they get 9 pitches--even if they don't hit, they still get to take first base. Everyone gets a chance to run the bases at least once.
Each inning they rotate positions on the field. You play 2 infield positions, 2 outfield positions, and sit on the bench for 2 innings. They bat straight through the lineup. Three outs or 9 batters. Even if you were on the bench that inning, you bat in the regular number order. Doesn't matter who you are or how you play. You will play every position--including bench warmer. I love it!! I think that as they get toward the end of the season, they start having more "assigned" positions, but for now, they are all equal. Fabulous!!
They have one more year in this league, and then they move up to regular kid pitch. Things get to be more like "normal" baseball then, but for now--they are teaching them to love the sport!!!
So, how did it go? GREAT! He hit every time he got up to bat (three times) and he played great at first base. He caught every ball thrown to him. He also did great at bench warmer. I can't really comment on his outfield play, because no one hit the ball to the outfield. However, he did not sit on the ground and play in the dirt or pick flowers, so I guess that is success out there too! He was also the first player to cross home plate, but I managed to get my hair in front of the camera lens, so that photo will have to wait until the next game (by the next time he went around, I was busy keeping J. off the field and couldn't get to the camera!)
He definitely seems to be a natural athelete. He loves everything outdoors (the newest thing is skateboarding--I just bought him a ramp--what's wrong with me????) He has that long, lean body that seems so comfortable running and throwing. Soccer and baseball are definite successes for him. I'm hoping he chooses to stick with them and blow off basketball and football. We'll see. . .we'll let him try whatever he wants, but these two seem to be really comfortable for him!Saturday, March 10, 2007
I'm a Wheel Watcher!!!
I am a Wheel Watcher. . .since childhood I have loved Wheel of Fortune--and guess what! Now I am a Wheel Contestant!!! That's right. . .I'm going to hang out with Pat and Vanna. I auditioned last month, got called back for a second audition, and they called me yesterday to say I AM GOING TO BE ON THE SHOW!! They are shooting a "Sunny San Diego" week! They will shoot all 5 shows on the 24th of this month here in San Diego! 2 weeks from today. I don't know when it will air, but I am so excited! Watch for me on NBC!!!!Oh--also, N.'s first baseball game was today. He did fabulous. He got a hit everytime he got to the plate, and he did GREAT at first base! More info on that tomorrow when I have downloaded the photos!!
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Pops
Pops died last night about about 8:15 Texas time. What a strange feeling to say "That's good." about something that is sad.
At least now he isn't in pain. At least now his wife, children, and their families can begin to mourn his death. At least now no one has to debate what is the best thing to do. At least now, his wife and C. can get some rest, after living at the hospital for a month. And yet. . .he's still gone.
It's still sad. No matter what age you are, and how much you were expecting it, it still has to be awful to lose a parent. My parents and grandparents are young, compared to those of most people my age. None of my biological grandparents have died, much less my parents. I have no idea what it would be like.
I think it must be really painful for C in her heart, even if her head knew it was best. No matter how old you are, when both of your parents have died, you must have a feeling inside of being an orphan. Even with your own spouse, siblings, children, grandchildren, etc. around you. A little bit of you has to be a little bit broken when they're gone.
At least now he isn't in pain. At least now his wife, children, and their families can begin to mourn his death. At least now no one has to debate what is the best thing to do. At least now, his wife and C. can get some rest, after living at the hospital for a month. And yet. . .he's still gone.
It's still sad. No matter what age you are, and how much you were expecting it, it still has to be awful to lose a parent. My parents and grandparents are young, compared to those of most people my age. None of my biological grandparents have died, much less my parents. I have no idea what it would be like.
I think it must be really painful for C in her heart, even if her head knew it was best. No matter how old you are, when both of your parents have died, you must have a feeling inside of being an orphan. Even with your own spouse, siblings, children, grandchildren, etc. around you. A little bit of you has to be a little bit broken when they're gone.
Monday, February 26, 2007
What if we treated our PETS this way?
My stepmother's father is very ill. He has been sick for a very long time, with emphysema and (I think) diabetes. He had to have a leg amputated several years ago. Anyway, for the last couple of months it has been really bad. He has been in the hospital in a lot of pain. My stepmom went there (he lives about 2 hours from her) and hasn't left in 3 weeks. She can barely stand to leave to take a shower.
He is on a lot of medication to ease his pain and anxiety. My dad says that he looks like the most awful pictures you have ever seen of the victims of Auschwitz. He says that he takes abour 4 or 5 breaths per minute. Each breath is terribly painful. He can only get his lungs to expand for about 1/4 of a breath.
I know that God has a plan, and when it is our time to go, we go. But, this is just awful. He is in such agony. His wife suffers watching him suffer. His children can't help him, and they are having to watch him slowly die. He can't swallow, so he hasn't had anything to eat or drink in 2 weeks. At one point, they considered sending him home on hospice. I am not sure why they haven't done that yet.
So--here's the thing. I haven't ever been sure how I felt about "euthenasia" (I probably spelled that wrong). I know that I would not want to suffer, and I have told my family on multiple ocassions that if something bad happens to me, let me go. Don't put yourselves through having to take care of me. But, I believe it is against the law to "help" someone die. Isn't that what Dr. Kevorkian was put in jail for? Anyway, I'm pretty sure it is illegal. Understand, Pops has not ever told anyone that he wanted to go ahead and die, so this doesn't really pertain to him. It has just made me think. If someone is suffering so badly and they want it to end. . .why do we make that illegal? If I had a dog that was in the same condition that Pops is in, and someone reported me--I would go to jail for animal cruelty. With animals we are told that it is the "humane" thing to do because "they have no quality or dignity to their lives anymore."
Again, Pops hasn't asked anyone to help him die, but when he finally takes his last breath, that old cliche will certainly be true--he will be in a better place, he will no longer be in pain, and he will be with God. It just makes me think about how and why we make the decisions we do.
I realize that this is totally rambling and not tied together. I am just so sad for C. and her dad and his wife and everyone else. They are in this horrible in between thing of having to take care of his body, while they watch it waste away. They can't yet grieve his death, because he's still alive, but his life is misery. It is just too awful.
He is on a lot of medication to ease his pain and anxiety. My dad says that he looks like the most awful pictures you have ever seen of the victims of Auschwitz. He says that he takes abour 4 or 5 breaths per minute. Each breath is terribly painful. He can only get his lungs to expand for about 1/4 of a breath.
I know that God has a plan, and when it is our time to go, we go. But, this is just awful. He is in such agony. His wife suffers watching him suffer. His children can't help him, and they are having to watch him slowly die. He can't swallow, so he hasn't had anything to eat or drink in 2 weeks. At one point, they considered sending him home on hospice. I am not sure why they haven't done that yet.
So--here's the thing. I haven't ever been sure how I felt about "euthenasia" (I probably spelled that wrong). I know that I would not want to suffer, and I have told my family on multiple ocassions that if something bad happens to me, let me go. Don't put yourselves through having to take care of me. But, I believe it is against the law to "help" someone die. Isn't that what Dr. Kevorkian was put in jail for? Anyway, I'm pretty sure it is illegal. Understand, Pops has not ever told anyone that he wanted to go ahead and die, so this doesn't really pertain to him. It has just made me think. If someone is suffering so badly and they want it to end. . .why do we make that illegal? If I had a dog that was in the same condition that Pops is in, and someone reported me--I would go to jail for animal cruelty. With animals we are told that it is the "humane" thing to do because "they have no quality or dignity to their lives anymore."
Again, Pops hasn't asked anyone to help him die, but when he finally takes his last breath, that old cliche will certainly be true--he will be in a better place, he will no longer be in pain, and he will be with God. It just makes me think about how and why we make the decisions we do.
I realize that this is totally rambling and not tied together. I am just so sad for C. and her dad and his wife and everyone else. They are in this horrible in between thing of having to take care of his body, while they watch it waste away. They can't yet grieve his death, because he's still alive, but his life is misery. It is just too awful.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Strength, Stability, and Flexability
So. . .I have been thinking over my workout plan a lot lately. I have been trying to increase my running, but I decided the other day--what for? I hate running. I don't think it is fun. I don't get a runner's high, and I don't feel proud that I can do something other people can't. The only thing I get out of it is weight loss. I can run 4 miles and lose about 1/2 a pound a day. So, that is enough to keep me doing it. I thought about working my way up to some races (they have great ones year round here) but I just don't want to.
Two things that I saw recently have redirected my plan. First, I saw a photo of a woman, about my age (a year old, actually) standing on one foot, with her other leg extended straight up in the air (shin next to ear) holding that foot with her hands above her head. Second, I saw a woman at my gym who is 67 years old who, I swear, is a human pretzel. She could bend her body into some crazy contortions, just to try to stretch! That's how flexible she is. So. . .here's my thoughts. In the long run, I will not be able to run forever. It just isn't a smart choice, when you consider the impact on your knees and the rest of your body. What I DO need to have forever is strength, stability, and flexability. (I think I have spelled that wrong, but it is late and I am too tired to figure it out.) Anyway--my trainer and I have been working on the stability. Some of the simplest exercises are very difficult for me. I am pretty clumsy anyway, so the fact that I have not done a lot of work on that area doesn't help. Eventually, as I grow older, and my bones are not as strong, I will need my muscles and joints to be in good condition to keep my body safe and healthy. As for the flexability, I think that will help with those "aches and pains" of age that are the result of lack of muscle use. Also, I just thought that picture of that lady's foot over her head was really cool.
So. . .I will keep up the running, just for the weight loss. Not try to push for more constantly. I will continue weight training, because I like being able to wear tank tops and not be embarrassed of my arms, but now I will add in pilates and yoga to work toward the new goal. I am not sure that the goal will be to hold my foot above my head, but I'd like to be able to extend one leg straight out at a 90 degree angle to the floor and hold it there for 10 seconds (try it--it's much harder than it sounds!)
Two things that I saw recently have redirected my plan. First, I saw a photo of a woman, about my age (a year old, actually) standing on one foot, with her other leg extended straight up in the air (shin next to ear) holding that foot with her hands above her head. Second, I saw a woman at my gym who is 67 years old who, I swear, is a human pretzel. She could bend her body into some crazy contortions, just to try to stretch! That's how flexible she is. So. . .here's my thoughts. In the long run, I will not be able to run forever. It just isn't a smart choice, when you consider the impact on your knees and the rest of your body. What I DO need to have forever is strength, stability, and flexability. (I think I have spelled that wrong, but it is late and I am too tired to figure it out.) Anyway--my trainer and I have been working on the stability. Some of the simplest exercises are very difficult for me. I am pretty clumsy anyway, so the fact that I have not done a lot of work on that area doesn't help. Eventually, as I grow older, and my bones are not as strong, I will need my muscles and joints to be in good condition to keep my body safe and healthy. As for the flexability, I think that will help with those "aches and pains" of age that are the result of lack of muscle use. Also, I just thought that picture of that lady's foot over her head was really cool.
So. . .I will keep up the running, just for the weight loss. Not try to push for more constantly. I will continue weight training, because I like being able to wear tank tops and not be embarrassed of my arms, but now I will add in pilates and yoga to work toward the new goal. I am not sure that the goal will be to hold my foot above my head, but I'd like to be able to extend one leg straight out at a 90 degree angle to the floor and hold it there for 10 seconds (try it--it's much harder than it sounds!)
Happy Birthday to the Babies!
I have to stop referring to the two youngest children as babies. It makes R. very angry with me, but I just can't help it. I feel like they are babies. Anyway--in the last 5 days, they both had a birthday. R. turned 4 on Thursday, and J. turned 2 today. They had a joint party on Saturday. I swore I would never do that, but at this point, J. is so young that he doesn't really have his own friends. . .just those that I have forced on him because they are children of my friends or siblings of the other two boys' friends. So, I figured one (or maybe two or three) joint parties won't hurt anybody!
It was a great time. My friend, L. bought a bounce house a few days ago, so we borrowed that. She also made their cakes. This woman is talented. She does SUCH a great job. And, she makes this wonderful chocolate icing with cinnamon in it. I don't even like cinnamon that much, and I love this icing. The night of the party, at about 2 am, I ate some of the cake without even cutting it--just straight from the cake! I used to fork though!
Anyway--I had to leave the party early to go to my Weight Watchers employment interview, so L. and a couple of other friends stayed and helped clean up. I think, overall, I was the big winner when it came to this party. Little planning (hot dogs to eat, and L. provided the entertainment) fancy beautiful cakes for free, and I didn't have to clean anything! AND--I only had to do one party! AND I got HIRED BY WEIGHT WATCHERS!
All in all, a great day. For me. Not for the kids. They got sick later that afternoon--back to croup coughs and fever. We've all been passing these germs back and forth for about 5 weeks now. It seems to be mutating between each kid (and me) so that we get it again and again. That sucks, but other than that. . .a good weekend.
Family Visit
My brother (J. calls him "Unc Buggy"), my sister-in-law ("Shelf"), and their beautiful daughter, G (he says her name perfectly) were here this past weekend. It was so much fun. J. and G. are only 6 weeks apart, so they were HILARIOUS!! They are 2 now, so the famous toddler statement "Mine!" was heard throughout the house many many times! Being their first child, it makes UB and Auntie C. a little irritated, but they handled it quite well! I mostly just cracked up about it (I have mellowed SO MUCH since the first child--I amaze myself!) Anyway--we had a great time. We went to the Wild Animal Park, a Super Bowl Party, and to Sea World. It was really fun. Auntie C was a great sport, since she is pregnant and was REALLY not feeling well the entire time. She pretended that she was fine, but she didn't feel great. I always think that I am fine with living far from family, that I have adjusted and I will be ok--and then they come to visit. It makes me so so so so so sad when they leave. Especially UB, Auntie C, and G. I could live next door to them forever and be happy about it! I am hoping that we will get to go home over the summer some time (pray for space A flights!!!!!) and see them and the new baby! Here are some photos from their visit! Auntie C sent me some more, but I have to figure out the Kodak account thing to put them on here. . .hers are a lot better than mine!
Civilian Child vs. Military Child
1. A civilian child sees race or maybe diversity; a military child sees friends as close as family.
2. A civilian child has a best friend in his hometown, a military child has a best friend on every continent.
3. A civilian child sees the planes flying over; a military child knows what type of plane it is, and knows someone who works on them.
4. A civilian child smells something nasty and says "Eeewwww! What's that smell?" A military child smells something nasty and says "M.O.P.P. 4! M.O.P.P. 4!"
5. A civilian child sees someone in uniform; a military child can tell you what branch he's in and what rank he is.
6. A civilian child thinks home is where the heart is; a military child knows that home is where the military sends you.
7. A civilian child kisses mommy and daddy goodnight; a military child often kisses a picture of mommy or daddy goodnight.
8. A civilian child lives for tomorrow and what it might bring; a military child lives for today, because tomorrow might bring orders for daddy to go away again
9. A civilian child talks on the phone for fun; a military child lives for the 15 minute weekly phone call.
10. A civilian child can read and write in English; a military child can read and write acronyms.
11. A civilian child says goodbye; a military child says see you later.
12. A civilian child gets to see things other children would love to see; a military child gets to see things world leaders would love to see.
13. A civilian child often goes to the same school his whole life; a military child will change schools every 2 years.
14. A civilian child leaves his hometown for vacation; a military child only sees his "hometown" for vacation.
15. A civilian child supports our soldiers; a military child IS a soldier.
Pray for our troops. . .including the little ones helping hold down the homefront!
2. A civilian child has a best friend in his hometown, a military child has a best friend on every continent.
3. A civilian child sees the planes flying over; a military child knows what type of plane it is, and knows someone who works on them.
4. A civilian child smells something nasty and says "Eeewwww! What's that smell?" A military child smells something nasty and says "M.O.P.P. 4! M.O.P.P. 4!"
5. A civilian child sees someone in uniform; a military child can tell you what branch he's in and what rank he is.
6. A civilian child thinks home is where the heart is; a military child knows that home is where the military sends you.
7. A civilian child kisses mommy and daddy goodnight; a military child often kisses a picture of mommy or daddy goodnight.
8. A civilian child lives for tomorrow and what it might bring; a military child lives for today, because tomorrow might bring orders for daddy to go away again
9. A civilian child talks on the phone for fun; a military child lives for the 15 minute weekly phone call.
10. A civilian child can read and write in English; a military child can read and write acronyms.
11. A civilian child says goodbye; a military child says see you later.
12. A civilian child gets to see things other children would love to see; a military child gets to see things world leaders would love to see.
13. A civilian child often goes to the same school his whole life; a military child will change schools every 2 years.
14. A civilian child leaves his hometown for vacation; a military child only sees his "hometown" for vacation.
15. A civilian child supports our soldiers; a military child IS a soldier.
Pray for our troops. . .including the little ones helping hold down the homefront!
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