It's been too long since I've talked to my dad ... been too long since I've heard his voice, had one of his bear hugs, debated with him, smiled at his boisterous laugh, and watched him play with his grand kids.
All of these things that I miss, consume my mind constantly. And when I say "constantly", what I mean is that I think about him almost every minute that I am awake. I can't do anything without my mind turning to my dad, and my heart feeling the weight of our loss.
It's been almost 4 weeks, and I just can't wrap my mind around the fact that he's gone. The man who lovingly wrapped his arms around me my whole life will never do that again. I know that he wouldn't want us to suffer, but the love from my dad, a love that I've known my entire life, can't be shown to me anymore.
My dad's best buddies want to have a BBQ in his honor this Friday. I absolutely do not mind putting it together, and sending out the info. We want to celebrate his life. And that's a great thing! But even acknowledging the reason that a BBQ is to happen, creates an ache so deep in me, that I know only time can hopefully lighten.
In the meantime, I subconsciously keep waiting for his phone call, or waiting to hear the sound of his motorcycle pulling up.
In the meantime, when my head connects with my heart and I realize that I'll never get that phone call, or see him walk in the door, I will ache. And I will ache with my whole heart, my whole body, my whole being. And that's ok for now, I think. Because in the meantime, I'll take the ache, and know its there because my dad loved me with us with his whole heart, his whole body, and his whole being.
God, please give us the strength to get through this time. Please help us to hold on to our faith during this time, so that we can begin to heal. Amen.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Monday, October 14, 2013
A little less smile
11 days ... its been 11 days since we lost my dad. Unreal.
At first, my heart was so heavy, it ached so bad that I didn't stop crying for the first 48 hours. I just couldn't believe it ... a man that had loved me my whole life, taken away in less than 5 seconds? A man that taught me life's most essential lessons, shaped me into who I am today, left our world? It couldn't be so.
For the first few days, I tortured myself by thinking of the accident, and how clueless and scared my dad must have been. Everyone assured me that the accident happened too fast for my dad to even be able to respond or think about what was happening. So then I started thinking, great, my dad left this world without even thinking of his family because he had no time to.
THEN, came the viewing and funeral. Those days were a blur. Saying goodbye is never easy, but saying it in the most permanent state, such as death ... God that was devastating. We shouldn't have had to say goodbye to him so early. My dad, so vivacious and full of life, simply gone.
Now the last handful of days, I've been trying to keep myself together, for my husband, for my children, and for my little sisters. My mind isn't wrapping around the fact that I'll never see my dad walk in my door again, or hug my kids again. My mind isn't wrapping around the fact that I'll never hear my dad's voice again, or listen to my husband tell him that the Packers suck and the Seahawks rock. My heart isn't accepting the fact that my dad just isn't here anymore. Even writing those words are weighing my heart down, my head down, my arms down, my hands down.
I've been really attempting to pull myself up, show my kids that their Grandpa taught me how to be a strong person. But when I smile, its half heartedly. When I laugh, it feels empty. I just don't feel whole. I feel like a completely different person than I was 12 days ago.
I know that this new life, a life without my dad, is going to take some getting used to. I realize that there will be different parts to this grieving process, and I understand that my family and I need time to start healing. Although we'll never recover from such a great loss, I have faith that we will become a stronger family because of this.
Before I sign off, a little note -- this loss could have been avoided. This teenage kid, who clearly had no business driving, shouldn't have been on the road. He rocked hundreds of lives, left hundreds of people suffering because of his carelessness. In the last 11 days, I've heard several people mention that motorcycles are dangerous. I've got news for you - motorcycles are not dangerous. Its the other drivers on the road. Yes, motorcycles are harder to see, but that is why as a driver, your job is to look and PAY ATTENTION. There was no reason my dad shouldn't have been spotted, he was driving the speed limit, with his high beams on, on a road where no trees, bushes, or anything else was obstructing the vision of other drivers. Please, PAY ATTENTION. Put down your cell phones or anything else you are looking for before you take the life of another person. You want to drive on a deserted road and put yourself at risk, have at it. But when you are responsible for the lives around you, PAY ATTENTION.
Someone mentioned that anger is a part of the grieving process, so thanks for understanding that last paragraph. I'm Bill's daughter, trust when I say that there is more where that came from.
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At first, my heart was so heavy, it ached so bad that I didn't stop crying for the first 48 hours. I just couldn't believe it ... a man that had loved me my whole life, taken away in less than 5 seconds? A man that taught me life's most essential lessons, shaped me into who I am today, left our world? It couldn't be so.
For the first few days, I tortured myself by thinking of the accident, and how clueless and scared my dad must have been. Everyone assured me that the accident happened too fast for my dad to even be able to respond or think about what was happening. So then I started thinking, great, my dad left this world without even thinking of his family because he had no time to.
THEN, came the viewing and funeral. Those days were a blur. Saying goodbye is never easy, but saying it in the most permanent state, such as death ... God that was devastating. We shouldn't have had to say goodbye to him so early. My dad, so vivacious and full of life, simply gone.
Now the last handful of days, I've been trying to keep myself together, for my husband, for my children, and for my little sisters. My mind isn't wrapping around the fact that I'll never see my dad walk in my door again, or hug my kids again. My mind isn't wrapping around the fact that I'll never hear my dad's voice again, or listen to my husband tell him that the Packers suck and the Seahawks rock. My heart isn't accepting the fact that my dad just isn't here anymore. Even writing those words are weighing my heart down, my head down, my arms down, my hands down.
I've been really attempting to pull myself up, show my kids that their Grandpa taught me how to be a strong person. But when I smile, its half heartedly. When I laugh, it feels empty. I just don't feel whole. I feel like a completely different person than I was 12 days ago.
I know that this new life, a life without my dad, is going to take some getting used to. I realize that there will be different parts to this grieving process, and I understand that my family and I need time to start healing. Although we'll never recover from such a great loss, I have faith that we will become a stronger family because of this.
Before I sign off, a little note -- this loss could have been avoided. This teenage kid, who clearly had no business driving, shouldn't have been on the road. He rocked hundreds of lives, left hundreds of people suffering because of his carelessness. In the last 11 days, I've heard several people mention that motorcycles are dangerous. I've got news for you - motorcycles are not dangerous. Its the other drivers on the road. Yes, motorcycles are harder to see, but that is why as a driver, your job is to look and PAY ATTENTION. There was no reason my dad shouldn't have been spotted, he was driving the speed limit, with his high beams on, on a road where no trees, bushes, or anything else was obstructing the vision of other drivers. Please, PAY ATTENTION. Put down your cell phones or anything else you are looking for before you take the life of another person. You want to drive on a deserted road and put yourself at risk, have at it. But when you are responsible for the lives around you, PAY ATTENTION.
Someone mentioned that anger is a part of the grieving process, so thanks for understanding that last paragraph. I'm Bill's daughter, trust when I say that there is more where that came from.
I will miss this man more than words could ever describe.
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Thursday, October 10, 2013
Broken heart.
A week ago today, 10/3/2013, we lost a great man, my dad, Bill Spellman.
Last Thursday morning, my dad got on his motorcycle, like he does every Monday-Friday, and started his 4 mile trip to work. When my dad drank his cup of coffee, smoked his morning cigarette, and put on his shoes to leave, he did not know that all of those actions would be his last.
12 hours before the accident, Dad was over at our home, celebrating Sophia's 3rd birthday. We made dinner, he played with his grand kids, he hugged them, he watched his only granddaughter open gifts, and he laughed. When we said bye to my dad, we said that we would see him over the weekend. That was our plan.
Less than a mile from his work, a teenage kid ran head on into my dad. The doctors and police say that he died instantly. I quote, "When he arrived at the hospital he had no heartbeat. Since he is so young and strong, we tried for 30 minutes to revive him". They let us see my dad laying on the table in the hospital room where they tried to bring my dad back to life.
Because of one moment that someone, some teenage kid, was not paying attention while he was driving, our whole lives changed. That one moment, turned several lives upside down. That one moment took away a husband. A daddy. A greatly loved grandpa. A brother. An uncle. A friend.
That pain .... the pain we all feel, the void that is now a part of all of us, can never be filled. Instead, we try to find comfort in our faith, and in memories.
Some of my aunts and uncles requested for me to send out the speech I wrote for my dad's viewing this past Monday night. I wrote that speech, at 2 am, when the ache in my heart forced me to write out some words.
"My dad was
my rock. My go-to for advice. My hands for comfort. My voice of reason.
Who was Bill
Spellman to you? What do you think when you hear the name ‘Bill Spellman’? I’ll
bet you think – Fun. Proud. Dedicated. Strong. Consistent.
My dad was a
go-getter. When he wanted something, he put his whole heart into the effort. My
husband Nate, one of my dad’s best friends, and I were talking a couple nights
ago about how my dad always had projects. “This grass could be greener”, “These
shelves could be sturdier”, “These cars could be shinier”. But my dad didn’t
make any old project sound like just any old project – he made that project
sound like it was about to change his life, like his life’s mission was to
complete this project. Dedicated. Any when that task was complete, oh Nate and
I heard every detail! Proud. And he tackled life and all that came with it,
with the same drive at every turn. Consistent. Passionate.
Tonight we
celebrate a gift that God gave to each of us sitting in this room – my dad. My
dad’s presence was larger than life. You knew when he was near, and you could
feel the void if he wasn’t.
I’m going to
miss eagerness for all of the things life had to offer. I’m going to miss his
booming laugh. I’m going to miss his bear hugs. I’m going to miss the way he
walked, and the way he thought his Obama jokes were hilarious. I already miss
and yearn for his phone calls … to hear his voice once more.
But more
than anything, I will miss the way my dad loved his family. He always wanted
sons, but God challenged him with daughters. He raised us 3 with a lot of fight
and hardness, knowing one day he would be called to the Lord, and my sisters
and I would continue his legacy. We will kick ass and take names, Bill Spellman
style. We will fight for what we believe in, and we will love hard, because we
are Bill Spellman’s daughters. And I will gratefully teach and remind my
children of what an amazing and loving grandpa they had.
My little
William Thomas Spellman will take everything he has learned from his grandpa
these last 10 years, and proudly wear that name, just like my dad did. As his
first grandson, I know Will is going to keep his gramps’ memory alive – work
hard, play hard. Jacob, my dad’s redheaded firecracker of a twin, will help us
to remember my dad’s love of life, and the laughter and joy that resided in
him. Sophia, grampy’s girl, will remind us of the kind heart and intense love
my dad possessed. Andrew will remind us of the spunk and determination that was
my dad.
I will miss
my dad terribly, no words could ever describe how much, but my dad, my pops,
will live on in each one of us. Hold your head high, love hard, and cheer on
Notre Dame, because my dad is still with us, watching us, and loving us."
These pictures were taken the night before my dad entered his eternal life... this is how we'll always remember him.
Cuddling with the birthday girl, aka Grampy's Girl
His model face
Saying "cheers" to his girl
Thank you to all of our friends and family who are loving us and supporting us during this tragedy. We could not have made it this last week without you. I know each of you shares in our pain, and I am proud of my dad for making an impact in so many lives.
Forever in our hearts Daddy.
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Our new babysitter
I found this unpublished post, that I wrote in February 2012 (well over a year ago!). I guess I forgot to hit the Publish button! I couldn't just delete it though because the pictures in it are too adorable!
2/25/2012
A couple of weeks ago we bought this sandbox from a family in our neighborhood that was moving. They were selling it for a fraction of the cost of a new one, so I jumped on the purchase. I remembered how much my sisters and I loved our green turtle sandbox when we were wee little ones, and I figured our kids would love it too. - I was right!
The pictures below are from the first day we had it. They sat in it and played for 2 hours, I physically had to drag them out for nap time. For about a week, we had incredibly great weather, mid 70's, sun shining high, clear skies. These kids practically lived in the sandbox! I would leave the back door and windows open, and do housework {or catch up on my DVR shows, same diff}, and I would look out back, and there Jake and Soph were, playing away. Sometimes they would come in and check on me, but otherwise they sat quietly (yes, I said quietly), in the sandbox and played. If they started getting restless, Nate or I would say "Sandbox." and out they'd go. It was lovely.
As I type this, Nate is out back grilling, and the kids are in the sandbox. It's kind of chilly though, so they probably won't be in there for long.
2/25/2012
A couple of weeks ago we bought this sandbox from a family in our neighborhood that was moving. They were selling it for a fraction of the cost of a new one, so I jumped on the purchase. I remembered how much my sisters and I loved our green turtle sandbox when we were wee little ones, and I figured our kids would love it too. - I was right!
The pictures below are from the first day we had it. They sat in it and played for 2 hours, I physically had to drag them out for nap time. For about a week, we had incredibly great weather, mid 70's, sun shining high, clear skies. These kids practically lived in the sandbox! I would leave the back door and windows open, and do housework {or catch up on my DVR shows, same diff}, and I would look out back, and there Jake and Soph were, playing away. Sometimes they would come in and check on me, but otherwise they sat quietly (yes, I said quietly), in the sandbox and played. If they started getting restless, Nate or I would say "Sandbox." and out they'd go. It was lovely.
As I type this, Nate is out back grilling, and the kids are in the sandbox. It's kind of chilly though, so they probably won't be in there for long.
I sighed.
Hakuna Matata.
A phrase that I did not use this last week. Do you know why? My kids.
Sophia Sophia Sophia. I must say, she's a doll, for real, but what's scary about Sophia is how fearless and quiet she can be. I can honestly say that in all my years of motherhood, I have never truly felt defeated, and on Tuesday, I felt the unmistakable BOOM of defeat.
Let me just tell my Tuesday story, just for fun-
Tuesday.... oh Tuesday.... I was watching one of my favorite fun sized people, Mr. Wyatt. Wyatt was supposed to be with another friend of ours, but she had to take her son to urgent care because he had a possible broken leg. Anyways, Wyatt, Jake and Soph were playing out back for a while. I was watching them through the window. They had taken off the lid to the worm bin and were ripping worms apart, they dug up a little grass, they played in the clubhouse. They were doing what they normally do. Wyatt walks inside at one point, turns to look at me, and his little right eye is practically swollen shut. I start panicking - 'Did he eat nuts?' 'Did he get stung by a bee?' 'Did a child of mine punch him in the face?'. I call his mom, Jackie, and I say as calmly as I can muster "I don't want to freak you out, but YOUR SON'S EYE IS SWOLLEN SHUT!". In between laughter, Jackie says "Its ok, he's allergic to your cat, just give him benadryl.".
I don't have benadryl, I have zyrtec. That's fine, it has antihistamines, it'll do the trick. I pop the bottle open, easily fill the medicine syringe since the bottle is almost full. I give Wyatt the medicine, and as he's walking away, I'm following him and checking his breathing (it had sounded funny for a second), and when I turn around, about 2 minutes later, I see Andrew has the bottle of zyrtec tipped back, getting the very last drop that the bottle has.
$h!%.
I run over and grab the bottle, try to make him vomit, for once he won't, when it hit me - how did he even get the bottle? I start yelling for Soph (she's got the sticky fingers in the family), and when she gets to me, I show her the bottle and ask if she drank it. "Yes mommy its yummy." Perfect.
I call Carol and ask her, or yell rather, if she can come over (I clearly need help watching these kids). I call Poison Control, who, after a 10 minute discussion, send me to the emergency room, and is calling ahead so we can be seen immediately. I was so frantic on the drive there. Praying that neither Soph nor Andrew ends up in a toxic state, all the time cursing myself for leaving that bottle unattended for 2 whole minutes.
Long story not as long, they monitored the kids for a couple hours, their vitals were fine, and they released us. Soph slept for like 16 hours that night (I did wake her up to eat dinner, and she played hide'n'seek with her daddy and Jake for a little while). The next day, her and Andrew were fine, as if the day before was just a daymare.
On Wednesday, we are at the neighbor's house, and I'm telling Chrissy about my ridiculous day the day before. She's laughing (because who doesn't think my life is hilarious?), tells me she's glad she's not me, then takes me into her backyard to show me some new things her husband just put in. She has a pool, with a gate around it, and she opens this child proof gate, because what she is showing me is near the pool. Less than a minute after we walk back there, I hear Jake say "Soph don't do it.", and I hear the tiniest little PLOP. I turn around, and Sophia had jumped onto the pool cover. She didn't fall in, no, she was seeing how far her little 2 year old legs could jump. Chrissy, who is just recovering from a double mastectomy, nearly jumps in after her. You know what I did? I sighed. I sighed, and then I reached in, grabbed her by her tutu, and pulled her out. All the while, she's just staring at me, deciding if I'm going to get mad, and Jake's in the background "Sophia I TOLD you not to do that".
Later Chrissy said to me "I always thought you were being dramatic when you tell me about your kids' disaster stories, but I see you are not!"
No Chrissy, I'm not. I wish I were. Every time I turn around, someone is hurt, someone is sick, someone is causing a ruckus. When I went to bed on Tuesday night, my spirits were down. I was upset with myself, I was feeling a little sorry, very overwhelmed.
But when I woke up on Wednesday, I felt thankful. I felt blessed. Grateful. Little smiles that morning encouraged me.
There aren't any 'breaks' in my near future. Between the 4 small angels that God gave me, there won't be any down time. But that's ok. I just give a little sigh, and move on.
Sophia,
When you are reading this post as an adult, I would like for you to please pick up your phone (or whatever device you use to contact me), call me, and tell me that you love me. Because you, my dear, are my little firecracker, and you keep my anxiety right at the edge, but you are my little goober, and to hear your sweet little voice makes all this chaos worth it <3 font="">
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Baby #5...
Is sooo NOT on the way.
Remember this blog where I just kept complaining about being all tired and pregnant? You know what's even crazier than being pregnant with your fourth baby? Actually having the baby and integrating the little bundle of love into your already chaotic family.
This little guy here
Yeah, that's where the madness lies.
From the moment I wake up in the morning, I am literally running around getting things for kids. Food, juice cups, diaper changes, fixing electronics, getting Jake to Bowser on the Mario game, wiping butts, "mom mom watch me play this", kissing boo-boos, "mom mom mom watch me jump off of this mountain I made out of the cushions from our $2000 couch", listening to 20 minute long stories that little imaginations have made up. Sometimes I swear I'm losing my mind trying to keep up with everyone's needs!
Of course I love love love being a stay home mommy, my kids will only be this small once. We love going to play groups, walking to the park, going to fun places during the week. I really do love being able to do all of the things I listed above.
My friends and other moms used to say I was super mom. Now they see me with 4, and they say "girl you craaaaazy". Can't say that I blame them. My kids are free spirits. They make the most of life, speak their minds (loudly), run a muck, and enjoy every moment of life. I'm fairly certain people cringe when they find out the Maier crew is going to be at the same place as them. Again, can't blame 'em!
Adding little Andrew into our family feels natural. It is, though, very exhausting to have a new baby in the house. I'm home all day, so the second Nate walks in the door, my body literally shivers with relief that I will have a set of extra arms. Poor Nate though, he's worked all day, and I'm sure his body shakes at the thought of walking in the door. A couple nights ago Nate looked at me and said "We can't have any more babies. I am completely exhausted." It was funny to hear him say that, because even on the most difficult days, he's never said that. And the night he said it, our kids were being good!
At night as I lay in bed, I say my prayers. This is pretty much what it sounds like nowadays:
"Dear God, thank you for my beautiful and healthy children, and amazing husband. And thank you for helping to keep my mental state intact. Amen."
Remember this blog where I just kept complaining about being all tired and pregnant? You know what's even crazier than being pregnant with your fourth baby? Actually having the baby and integrating the little bundle of love into your already chaotic family.
This little guy here
is so freakin adorable and my new cuddle bug. He's a nursing baby, so he needs my boobs to eat every couple of hours. He needs his diaper changed more often than I log on to Facebook. He isn't a fan of being awake and not being in someones arms. So needless to say, my sweet, 10 week old baby boy soaks up the majority of my time. *Side-note: He is sitting on my lap doing ab exercises as I write.
But how can that be, you ask? How can that little precious 14 pound baby soak up the majority of my time when I have these other 3 munchkins to take care of?
Yeah, that's where the madness lies.
From the moment I wake up in the morning, I am literally running around getting things for kids. Food, juice cups, diaper changes, fixing electronics, getting Jake to Bowser on the Mario game, wiping butts, "mom mom watch me play this", kissing boo-boos, "mom mom mom watch me jump off of this mountain I made out of the cushions from our $2000 couch", listening to 20 minute long stories that little imaginations have made up. Sometimes I swear I'm losing my mind trying to keep up with everyone's needs!
Of course I love love love being a stay home mommy, my kids will only be this small once. We love going to play groups, walking to the park, going to fun places during the week. I really do love being able to do all of the things I listed above.
My friends and other moms used to say I was super mom. Now they see me with 4, and they say "girl you craaaaazy". Can't say that I blame them. My kids are free spirits. They make the most of life, speak their minds (loudly), run a muck, and enjoy every moment of life. I'm fairly certain people cringe when they find out the Maier crew is going to be at the same place as them. Again, can't blame 'em!
Adding little Andrew into our family feels natural. It is, though, very exhausting to have a new baby in the house. I'm home all day, so the second Nate walks in the door, my body literally shivers with relief that I will have a set of extra arms. Poor Nate though, he's worked all day, and I'm sure his body shakes at the thought of walking in the door. A couple nights ago Nate looked at me and said "We can't have any more babies. I am completely exhausted." It was funny to hear him say that, because even on the most difficult days, he's never said that. And the night he said it, our kids were being good!
At night as I lay in bed, I say my prayers. This is pretty much what it sounds like nowadays:
"Dear God, thank you for my beautiful and healthy children, and amazing husband. And thank you for helping to keep my mental state intact. Amen."
Monday, May 7, 2012
Let the complaining commence!
My best friend Jocelyn brought to my attention last week that she missed my blogs, and therefore feels like she's missing out on some of my life. I told her that I'm too grumpy to blog. She told me that it'd be OK to change the content of the blog to My Daily Grievances, and once I'm no longer pregnant, can reinstate Chaotic Bliss. I'm down with that. So let the complaning commence:
Today I am 36 weeks pregnant. I sigh as I type that.
I'm guessing that because this is my 4th pregnancy (third in the last 4 years), I'm just over it. I love the outcome (obviously), but the actual journey to bringing my beautiful child into the world is just exhausting. Call me crazy, but I don't really enjoy my excruciating back pains, shortness of breath, braxton hicks, pelvic pains, or swollen ankles.
I'm at the point where I watch people do every day things, and I get jealous. Like 'look how Nate just bent down and tied his shoes without it taking his breath away, and/or manuvering in a way so that he can reach around his beach ball belly'. 'Look how Will just picked up that napkin that fell without making all kinds of weird noises'. 'Look how Jake quickly bent down to grab that toy'. 'Look at little Sophia, she just climbed the stairs with a smile on her face'. These are serious thoughts people! I miss getting off the couch without losing my breath. I miss doing the dishes (keep reading, don't get crazy) without my belly ending up soaking wet because I'm pushing it into the counter so that I can even reach the dishes in the sink. I miss not having my full lung capacity. I miss cuddling with my kids. I miss eating a meal without heartburn. Ha, I miss drinking WATER without getting heartburn (thank you Costco for your giant sized tub of Tums).
I feel a tad guilty voicing my complaints. It is what it is though. I'm a mom of 3, life is exhausting enough, and it gets even more so when my body can't keep up with my life. I love that little Andrew is growing and his body continues to get what it needs before his big debut. And it is amazing to feel his movements, and his kicks and jabs (that currently hurt like hell since he's about 6 pounds and 18.5 inches long). I think pregnancy in all is a beautiful thing. But sometimes, a girl's gotta complain :)
I really don't think that I'll miss being pregnant (what gave that away?), with that being said, my doctor informed me last week that I can get induced on May 29 (3 weeks from tomorrow) if I happen to still be pregnant (please dear God, let the baby come before then).
Here's how Soph has had to adapt in order to cuddle with her mommy:
Since I've been sitting here writing this, my back is throbbing from sitting upright for so long, and I'm breathing like a fat man who's walked 10 miles in the desert heat.
xoxo,
Sher
Today I am 36 weeks pregnant. I sigh as I type that.
I'm guessing that because this is my 4th pregnancy (third in the last 4 years), I'm just over it. I love the outcome (obviously), but the actual journey to bringing my beautiful child into the world is just exhausting. Call me crazy, but I don't really enjoy my excruciating back pains, shortness of breath, braxton hicks, pelvic pains, or swollen ankles.
I'm at the point where I watch people do every day things, and I get jealous. Like 'look how Nate just bent down and tied his shoes without it taking his breath away, and/or manuvering in a way so that he can reach around his beach ball belly'. 'Look how Will just picked up that napkin that fell without making all kinds of weird noises'. 'Look how Jake quickly bent down to grab that toy'. 'Look at little Sophia, she just climbed the stairs with a smile on her face'. These are serious thoughts people! I miss getting off the couch without losing my breath. I miss doing the dishes (keep reading, don't get crazy) without my belly ending up soaking wet because I'm pushing it into the counter so that I can even reach the dishes in the sink. I miss not having my full lung capacity. I miss cuddling with my kids. I miss eating a meal without heartburn. Ha, I miss drinking WATER without getting heartburn (thank you Costco for your giant sized tub of Tums).
I feel a tad guilty voicing my complaints. It is what it is though. I'm a mom of 3, life is exhausting enough, and it gets even more so when my body can't keep up with my life. I love that little Andrew is growing and his body continues to get what it needs before his big debut. And it is amazing to feel his movements, and his kicks and jabs (that currently hurt like hell since he's about 6 pounds and 18.5 inches long). I think pregnancy in all is a beautiful thing. But sometimes, a girl's gotta complain :)
I really don't think that I'll miss being pregnant (what gave that away?), with that being said, my doctor informed me last week that I can get induced on May 29 (3 weeks from tomorrow) if I happen to still be pregnant (please dear God, let the baby come before then).
Here's how Soph has had to adapt in order to cuddle with her mommy:
Since I've been sitting here writing this, my back is throbbing from sitting upright for so long, and I'm breathing like a fat man who's walked 10 miles in the desert heat.
xoxo,
Sher
Monday, January 30, 2012
Poppity Pop Pop Pop! Popcorn.
When your family has a movie night, and popcorn needs to be made, how do you make it?
When I was growing up, we walked to the pantry, pulled out a bag of popcorn, stuck it in the microwave, hit the Popcorn button, and watched the bag grow. I could probably teach Jake how to do it.
But thats not how we roll anymore. We buy kernels Costco style, and Nathan stands at the stove and heats up oil or something, throws the kernels in, and then on the side, makes his own garlic butter stuff. I don't know how to do it, obviously. Nate says that I need to learn, but I like that he is the only one who knows how to do it, because then when the kids (mostly Jake) ask for popcorn, daddy has to do it because mommy doesn't know how to :)
I actually really like to watch Nate make the popcorn and watch the kids check out the process. I remember when Will was 2 and Nate would make popcorn with him. Kind of makes my heart warm and tingly.
On a side note, once the popcorn is made, Nate pours out 2 big bowls. One is for him, the other one is for the other 4 of us to share. Just sayin.
Last night Nate made popcorn while we were watching Water for Elephants, and I was super nauseous, so I didn't end up eating my (small) bowl. This morning I came downstairs a few minutes after Nate and the little kids, and I soon found that little popcorn scavengers found the bowl that I didn't eat.
When I was growing up, we walked to the pantry, pulled out a bag of popcorn, stuck it in the microwave, hit the Popcorn button, and watched the bag grow. I could probably teach Jake how to do it.
But thats not how we roll anymore. We buy kernels Costco style, and Nathan stands at the stove and heats up oil or something, throws the kernels in, and then on the side, makes his own garlic butter stuff. I don't know how to do it, obviously. Nate says that I need to learn, but I like that he is the only one who knows how to do it, because then when the kids (mostly Jake) ask for popcorn, daddy has to do it because mommy doesn't know how to :)
I actually really like to watch Nate make the popcorn and watch the kids check out the process. I remember when Will was 2 and Nate would make popcorn with him. Kind of makes my heart warm and tingly.
On a side note, once the popcorn is made, Nate pours out 2 big bowls. One is for him, the other one is for the other 4 of us to share. Just sayin.
Last night Nate made popcorn while we were watching Water for Elephants, and I was super nauseous, so I didn't end up eating my (small) bowl. This morning I came downstairs a few minutes after Nate and the little kids, and I soon found that little popcorn scavengers found the bowl that I didn't eat.
Caught!
Breakfast of champs :)
Cotton candy skies
When people find out that we live in Vegas, we get so many comments and questions, like "I wouldn't want to raise a family in Vegas." "Are you on the strip often?" "How is it living there with all the gambling?".
I'm not going to lie when I say I ABSOLUTELY HATE the billboards our city puts up. Nearly naked girls up everywhere, alcohol and sex references on almost every billboard you drive by. I can ignore that stuff, but you know who can't? My 8 year old. Will has started asking questions about the meanings on these billboards, and I cringe every time. The fact that we have slot machines in our gas stations and grocery stores doesn't really bother me. Its the damn billboards.
BUT, if we can avoid taking any freeway ever, Vegas isn't too bad of a city. We stay on our side of town, so our kids never really go into casinos (some have movie theatres, so sometimes we have to walk through the casino to get to the theatre, which is super rare). We live in an incredibly gorgeous part of town. People complain about the school system, but I can't complain because we have had nothing but positive things to say about Will's schools. The fall and spring weather here is amazing, and there is SO much fun to be had in the summer time!
One of the best things about Las Vegas are the sunsets. Now, its not like this every night, but most nights the sunset is pink and orange, and completely stunning. I was sitting on the couch last week with the kids, and I looked out back, and all I saw was pink. The garage was tinted pink, the patio furniture was tinted pink, the air was pink! The kids and I ran to the front door to check out the sunset, and what we saw was breathtaking! Not gonna lie, I thought that the ozone layer was stripped open and everything was going to be sucked into space. An apocalypse of some kind. But nope. It was just nature at its best.
I'm not going to lie when I say I ABSOLUTELY HATE the billboards our city puts up. Nearly naked girls up everywhere, alcohol and sex references on almost every billboard you drive by. I can ignore that stuff, but you know who can't? My 8 year old. Will has started asking questions about the meanings on these billboards, and I cringe every time. The fact that we have slot machines in our gas stations and grocery stores doesn't really bother me. Its the damn billboards.
BUT, if we can avoid taking any freeway ever, Vegas isn't too bad of a city. We stay on our side of town, so our kids never really go into casinos (some have movie theatres, so sometimes we have to walk through the casino to get to the theatre, which is super rare). We live in an incredibly gorgeous part of town. People complain about the school system, but I can't complain because we have had nothing but positive things to say about Will's schools. The fall and spring weather here is amazing, and there is SO much fun to be had in the summer time!
One of the best things about Las Vegas are the sunsets. Now, its not like this every night, but most nights the sunset is pink and orange, and completely stunning. I was sitting on the couch last week with the kids, and I looked out back, and all I saw was pink. The garage was tinted pink, the patio furniture was tinted pink, the air was pink! The kids and I ran to the front door to check out the sunset, and what we saw was breathtaking! Not gonna lie, I thought that the ozone layer was stripped open and everything was going to be sucked into space. An apocalypse of some kind. But nope. It was just nature at its best.
These pictures just don't do the sky any justice. Even Will and Jake were like "oooooo". When I logged into Facebook later that evening, I saw about 15 different pictures of the sky from different views around the valley. It was pretty neat :)
Daddy's Apple Pie Taster
These are the things I have learned about the people from Seattle: 1) everyone has a garden, no matter what state they end up residing in, 2) they love to make and eat pies, 3) they are extremely environmentally conscience (good job guys!).
We recycle in this house, and we are actually extremely good about it. Las Vegas has made recycling very easy - they give you 2 BIG bins. One is all black, that's where trash goes. The other has a blue lid, and you dump ALL recycables in it. You don't even need to sort through paper/glass/plastic anymore. Easy peasy. {For those of you from LV who are reading this and do not recycle, shame shame shame.}
However, you know my husband is from Seattle because he loves to garden (that sounds kind of girly...hmm... he loves 'yardwork'), and he is the best pie maker EVER! Well, apple pies, but still. The pie literally makes melts in your mouth, it is sooo delish!
He made some apple pies a couple weeks ago, but this time was different - he had a helper :) And his little helper stood there the ENTIRE time daddy worked. It was so dang adorable, I could hardly stand it!
We recycle in this house, and we are actually extremely good about it. Las Vegas has made recycling very easy - they give you 2 BIG bins. One is all black, that's where trash goes. The other has a blue lid, and you dump ALL recycables in it. You don't even need to sort through paper/glass/plastic anymore. Easy peasy. {For those of you from LV who are reading this and do not recycle, shame shame shame.}
However, you know my husband is from Seattle because he loves to garden (that sounds kind of girly...hmm... he loves 'yardwork'), and he is the best pie maker EVER! Well, apple pies, but still. The pie literally makes melts in your mouth, it is sooo delish!
He made some apple pies a couple weeks ago, but this time was different - he had a helper :) And his little helper stood there the ENTIRE time daddy worked. It was so dang adorable, I could hardly stand it!
Will isn't a fan of any pie except for pumpkin pie, so the next morning, I got this note on the fridge:
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Mommy divided by 3.
It's funny how you love your kids all the same, yet each love is so completely different. (This is where all the parents reading this pretend like they don't know what I'm talking about, but think about this very topic daily.)
When I was pregnant with Jake, I would sometimes cry because I was so worried that I wouldn't love him as much as I loved Will. For 5 1/2 years, Will was the light in my eyes, the beat of my heart. But the second I held Jakey, I laughed a little at myself for thinking such a silly thought. Of course I loved him just as much as I loved Will! They were my children for pete's sake. When I was pregnant with Sophia, I didn't think that I wouldn't love her as much, with Sophia, my fear was that Jake had to share attention (unlike Mr. Will, who held the spotlight for so many years), and now with a baby, he would receive even less attention. I wish I could say that I laughed at myself for that thought, but unfortunately, I was spot on. These 3 little kids had to have my undivided (but actually divided by 3) attention. All. The. Time.
{I sat here to write a post about the differences I see in boys and girls, but I've turned to rambling. Surprise surprise. I may get there.}
Anyways! Sometimes I feel completely torn on the whole 'attention' thing. Will needs help with homework (or as of 2 seconds ago, needs to know how to spell "jiujitsu", not even sure that's correct), Jake just neeeeeds me, and Soph needs a diaper change, a binky, some grapes, me to hold her, or me to just stare at her and not even take a moment to blink. I know I need to help Will with his homework, its a priority in his life, but how can I help him when Jake is running around with a toy gun yelling at everyone to put their hands up, and Sophia is screaming because she ate all the grapes, and unbeknownst to her, we don't have an unlimited supply here. What's crazy is that I think this stuff every day, yet Will's homework always gets done (and he has amazing grades at that), Jake still knows that we love him, and Sophia manages to get ahold of her 15 month old emotions. If any parents of multiple kids have some advice for me, I'd love to hear it!
Attention. That's how I got off topic. I was going to start with I feel like sometimes I pay more attention to Sophia than to my boys. And while I do feel a little guilty admitting that, its true. She isn't as self sufficient as my boys, she likes for me to play with her, whilst the boys have their own things going on in life.
Plus she intrigues me. Now, no doubt I love all my kids the same. All that love vibrates out of the same spot - my heart. BUT, she does things my boys never did. For one, at 15 months old, she listens when I tell her to do something. That started awhile back. She loves to cuddle with blankets and stuffed animals. Today I let her play with this mini hair straightener, and after a few minutes, I noticed she didn't have it, so I went on a hunt to find it (Lord knows, once my boys found it, who knows what they would be straightening once they plugged it in), and guess where I found it? The drawer that I pulled it out of! I couldn't believe that she remembered thats where I got it from! And she PUT IT BACK! When I ask her to pick up her toys, she does. She has been eating with a fork and spoon the last couple of months, she's the cleanest baby eater I've ever seen. She absolutely adores shoes - she'll bring you every pair she has so you can put them on her, and I'm not talking a polka dot shoe and a boot, she brings you a matching pair. And her new thing is, when she eats, she has to have a napking nearby... she loves to wipe her hands and mouth during meals!
Let's not get all like "Sheryl loves her girl more than her boys!". I freakin LOVE my boys! Their rowdiness, and energy puts a smile on my face (when its being used for the good). I love watching them wrestle, get dirty (its even cuter when daddy's around and he has to clean them). I think its cute that Will and Jake dug up a bunch of worms together over the weekend (I stayed inside and watched through the family room window, and it definitely wasn't cute when Will ate one of the worms). They both have charming, yet subtly devilish qualities about them.
What are some differences you notice between your girls and boys (at an early age like this)? Do you favor one gender over another at certain ages? How do you balance the attention of multiple kids? Do you treat your youngest child differently than the older ones? If so, how come?
I've talked about birth order on a previous post before, but I've become genuinely curious on how other parents handle the chaos of multiple kids. Please leave a comment with answers/advice/suggestions, I'd love to hear it all!
xoxo,
Sher
When I was pregnant with Jake, I would sometimes cry because I was so worried that I wouldn't love him as much as I loved Will. For 5 1/2 years, Will was the light in my eyes, the beat of my heart. But the second I held Jakey, I laughed a little at myself for thinking such a silly thought. Of course I loved him just as much as I loved Will! They were my children for pete's sake. When I was pregnant with Sophia, I didn't think that I wouldn't love her as much, with Sophia, my fear was that Jake had to share attention (unlike Mr. Will, who held the spotlight for so many years), and now with a baby, he would receive even less attention. I wish I could say that I laughed at myself for that thought, but unfortunately, I was spot on. These 3 little kids had to have my undivided (but actually divided by 3) attention. All. The. Time.
{I sat here to write a post about the differences I see in boys and girls, but I've turned to rambling. Surprise surprise. I may get there.}
Anyways! Sometimes I feel completely torn on the whole 'attention' thing. Will needs help with homework (or as of 2 seconds ago, needs to know how to spell "jiujitsu", not even sure that's correct), Jake just neeeeeds me, and Soph needs a diaper change, a binky, some grapes, me to hold her, or me to just stare at her and not even take a moment to blink. I know I need to help Will with his homework, its a priority in his life, but how can I help him when Jake is running around with a toy gun yelling at everyone to put their hands up, and Sophia is screaming because she ate all the grapes, and unbeknownst to her, we don't have an unlimited supply here. What's crazy is that I think this stuff every day, yet Will's homework always gets done (and he has amazing grades at that), Jake still knows that we love him, and Sophia manages to get ahold of her 15 month old emotions. If any parents of multiple kids have some advice for me, I'd love to hear it!
Attention. That's how I got off topic. I was going to start with I feel like sometimes I pay more attention to Sophia than to my boys. And while I do feel a little guilty admitting that, its true. She isn't as self sufficient as my boys, she likes for me to play with her, whilst the boys have their own things going on in life.
Plus she intrigues me. Now, no doubt I love all my kids the same. All that love vibrates out of the same spot - my heart. BUT, she does things my boys never did. For one, at 15 months old, she listens when I tell her to do something. That started awhile back. She loves to cuddle with blankets and stuffed animals. Today I let her play with this mini hair straightener, and after a few minutes, I noticed she didn't have it, so I went on a hunt to find it (Lord knows, once my boys found it, who knows what they would be straightening once they plugged it in), and guess where I found it? The drawer that I pulled it out of! I couldn't believe that she remembered thats where I got it from! And she PUT IT BACK! When I ask her to pick up her toys, she does. She has been eating with a fork and spoon the last couple of months, she's the cleanest baby eater I've ever seen. She absolutely adores shoes - she'll bring you every pair she has so you can put them on her, and I'm not talking a polka dot shoe and a boot, she brings you a matching pair. And her new thing is, when she eats, she has to have a napking nearby... she loves to wipe her hands and mouth during meals!
Let's not get all like "Sheryl loves her girl more than her boys!". I freakin LOVE my boys! Their rowdiness, and energy puts a smile on my face (when its being used for the good). I love watching them wrestle, get dirty (its even cuter when daddy's around and he has to clean them). I think its cute that Will and Jake dug up a bunch of worms together over the weekend (I stayed inside and watched through the family room window, and it definitely wasn't cute when Will ate one of the worms). They both have charming, yet subtly devilish qualities about them.
What are some differences you notice between your girls and boys (at an early age like this)? Do you favor one gender over another at certain ages? How do you balance the attention of multiple kids? Do you treat your youngest child differently than the older ones? If so, how come?
I've talked about birth order on a previous post before, but I've become genuinely curious on how other parents handle the chaos of multiple kids. Please leave a comment with answers/advice/suggestions, I'd love to hear it all!
xoxo,
Sher
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Back in the backs of time...
I was talking to a friend this morning, and we were chatting about the show Teen Mom (its fine, don't admit it outloud, but I know we all here watch this reality show), and the young moms on that show Break. My. Heart. I can't just watch that show like a normal person, I watch it from a mom's perspective, and being a teen mom myself, I watch it from the perspective of the girl who was in that same situation. There are times during the show where I realize I've stopped breathing altogether. Sounds stupid right? It's just a dumb reality show, most of its probably a set up. But regardless, those girls go through SO much, and I can totally feel their pain..
Let's face the facts here- I had Will when I was barely 18, fresh out of high school, just moved to AZ to live with my aunt because I had no where else to go, trying to figure HOW to figure out what to even do with my life. I had no direction, not even an inkling of who I was, or who I even wanted to be. In retrospect, I was so incredibly lost, had I been an outsider looking in, it would've broken my heart. But the second I held that gigantic boy you see in this picture below {the one with the spiky hair, mischievous eyes, and swoon-worthy smile}, I knew exactly who I wanted to be - first and foremost, I wanted to be the best mom I could be (what, with the teeny, tiny bit of direction I had in that area), and I wanted to be someone Will could be proud of.
I didn't exactly have the best childhood, and no thanks to myself, ended up struggling in the beginnings of adulthood. Will and I fought alot of battles together, emotionally and outwardly. By the time Will turned 2, we had lived in 3 different places, 2 different states. We were living in Vegas, my dad living in Tennesee, my mom in California. I was working full time, trying to be a single mom, trying to be a teen, trying to be myself, and I have to say, the absolute hardest thing I had to deal with ---- Judgement. Judgement from family (so sad), judgement from my friends, my peers, my co-workers. I couldn't understand why all these people in my life spent so much time making comments about my situation when they could have easily stepped in and helped put some positivity into my life. We weren't living an extravagant life, but at the end of the day, I was exactly who I wanted to be - the best mom to Will. And check it out - I was figuring it out by MYSELF :)
When Will was a few months off from turning 2, God gave us one of the greatest gifts - Nathan. He was 20, living in a house with 3 other guys, working part time, partying, going to UNLV. Sauntering through life, being a 'normal' 20 year old. Except that he wasn't. No other 'normal' 20 year old would pick up a girlfriend AND her toddler. But he did. And almost 7 years later, we have a unit here, Team Maier. We are a strong family of 5 (soon to be 6). Even on our worst days, we have a our health, we are happy, we have love.
I had a baby when I was 18. That baby helped shape me in to who I am today, and I wouldn't change it for the world. I don't think its wise for teens, or even young adults to have babies. Most people are never ready for it (I'm BARELY ready for it, and I have 3 kids). Give those teen moms on the dumb MTV show a break. It's not like they woke up one morning and thought "Gee, I'd like to make my life as difficult as possible. Think I'll have a baby in 40 weeks, that ought to do it!".
We should always remember that every person comes with their own story <3
Let's face the facts here- I had Will when I was barely 18, fresh out of high school, just moved to AZ to live with my aunt because I had no where else to go, trying to figure HOW to figure out what to even do with my life. I had no direction, not even an inkling of who I was, or who I even wanted to be. In retrospect, I was so incredibly lost, had I been an outsider looking in, it would've broken my heart. But the second I held that gigantic boy you see in this picture below {the one with the spiky hair, mischievous eyes, and swoon-worthy smile}, I knew exactly who I wanted to be - first and foremost, I wanted to be the best mom I could be (what, with the teeny, tiny bit of direction I had in that area), and I wanted to be someone Will could be proud of.
I didn't exactly have the best childhood, and no thanks to myself, ended up struggling in the beginnings of adulthood. Will and I fought alot of battles together, emotionally and outwardly. By the time Will turned 2, we had lived in 3 different places, 2 different states. We were living in Vegas, my dad living in Tennesee, my mom in California. I was working full time, trying to be a single mom, trying to be a teen, trying to be myself, and I have to say, the absolute hardest thing I had to deal with ---- Judgement. Judgement from family (so sad), judgement from my friends, my peers, my co-workers. I couldn't understand why all these people in my life spent so much time making comments about my situation when they could have easily stepped in and helped put some positivity into my life. We weren't living an extravagant life, but at the end of the day, I was exactly who I wanted to be - the best mom to Will. And check it out - I was figuring it out by MYSELF :)
When Will was a few months off from turning 2, God gave us one of the greatest gifts - Nathan. He was 20, living in a house with 3 other guys, working part time, partying, going to UNLV. Sauntering through life, being a 'normal' 20 year old. Except that he wasn't. No other 'normal' 20 year old would pick up a girlfriend AND her toddler. But he did. And almost 7 years later, we have a unit here, Team Maier. We are a strong family of 5 (soon to be 6). Even on our worst days, we have a our health, we are happy, we have love.
I had a baby when I was 18. That baby helped shape me in to who I am today, and I wouldn't change it for the world. I don't think its wise for teens, or even young adults to have babies. Most people are never ready for it (I'm BARELY ready for it, and I have 3 kids). Give those teen moms on the dumb MTV show a break. It's not like they woke up one morning and thought "Gee, I'd like to make my life as difficult as possible. Think I'll have a baby in 40 weeks, that ought to do it!".
We should always remember that every person comes with their own story <3
This photo is about 15 months old, but good God there is so much love vibrating out of it, I had to share it :)
Saturday, December 24, 2011
The verdict is in!
A few days ago I secretly went to the doctor and got a gender check on Baby Quattro. I was completely anxious to even be there, knowing how close I was to finding out the baby's gender. So it took everything in me to tell the ultrousound tech to not tell me the results. The look she gave me said something like 'pregnancy clearly makes this chick crazy'. After the ultrasound, the tech sealed the results. I walked to my car, put the results in the back seat, got in, and drove straight to my best friend Brittney's work place to have her hang on to the results. The entire time, practically jumping out of my skin. I mean, I had the results to our baby's gender within my reach! And I am so far from a patient person, the thought of waiting 4 days to find out was literally making me CRAZY.
The plan was that Brittney was going to put together a present revealing the baby's gender, and we would open it as a family on Christmas morning. That was the original plan.
I had a photo shoot today, and after the shoot Brit met me to give me the present she put together. Seeing the balloons and gift immediately put me into Crazy Sheryl mode. So I changed the original plan. I called my sister in law Sarah and asked her to meet me at home so that she could video tape us opening the gift from God (and Brittney). I came home, and started gathering the fam together. Nate was trying to take Will to the park to play football, and like an insane person, I made him stay. It was apparent that he was thinking the same thing the ultrasound tech thought of me just a few days earlier.
At any rate, here we are (don't mind Jake and Soph, those poor babies have been really sick with a virus, and Soph has been finding it hard to even keep her little eyes open) before we find out the gender of the new little blessing. Please be a girl, please be a girl!
The first one I popped had blue confetti blast out of it. Little girls wear Blue right?
The plan was that Brittney was going to put together a present revealing the baby's gender, and we would open it as a family on Christmas morning. That was the original plan.
I had a photo shoot today, and after the shoot Brit met me to give me the present she put together. Seeing the balloons and gift immediately put me into Crazy Sheryl mode. So I changed the original plan. I called my sister in law Sarah and asked her to meet me at home so that she could video tape us opening the gift from God (and Brittney). I came home, and started gathering the fam together. Nate was trying to take Will to the park to play football, and like an insane person, I made him stay. It was apparent that he was thinking the same thing the ultrasound tech thought of me just a few days earlier.
At any rate, here we are (don't mind Jake and Soph, those poor babies have been really sick with a virus, and Soph has been finding it hard to even keep her little eyes open) before we find out the gender of the new little blessing. Please be a girl, please be a girl!
The first part of the gift was to pop the balloons....
The first one I popped had blue confetti blast out of it. Little girls wear Blue right?
The time to open the REAL gift has come. So Nate went to town....
Whaaaaaaaat!!!!
It's a BOY! The ultrasound tech wrote "PEE PEE" and drew an arrow to our little boy's penis. And I'm allowed to say the word "penis" in my blog. There's a plenty of them in my life, so I get the priviledge :)
I feel a little guilty because I had been hoping for a girl. I could hear myself calling her name (that I picked out without Nate's knowledge), and I could see her playing dress up with her big sister Sophia. Even though I had those thoughts, I truly am so excited to have this HEALTHY baby BOY enter our lives (in 162 days according to the Pregnancy app on my phone). Sophia will remain our little princess, and Nate, Will and Jake get another member in their Penis Club. Everyone wins!
Brittney, thank you so much for making this gift such a special one. It means alot to us that you took time out of your life to make sure that found out the gender in such an awesome way. We are so lucky to have you in our lives <3
Thank you God for such a wonderful family, I couldn't have dreamed up a better one. And Happy Birthday Jesus!
Merry Christmas everyone, we hope you have a day filled with love and laughter.
Much love,
Sher & Family
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Belly Project: 15 Weeks
I grow people. What's your super power?
I'm not gonna lie- I feel a tad guilty that I didn't do this with my other kids. But I make myself feel better by reminding myself that every one of my kids has gotten something from me that the other hasn't. Like for instance, Will got $5 for lunch this morning, and when Jake asked for lunch money, he only got $1. To be fair, Will really does need money for lunch at school. At any rate, not every child will get the same treatment at every moment.
I'm getting totally off topic (whats new).
Surprisingly I am doing this Baby #4 Belly Project. Of course I didn't do it when I was uber tiny with Will. And I actually did do ONE photo shoot at the end of my pregnancy with Jake. And I tried to keep up on belly pics with Soph, but I just couldn't remember to do the picture! So, why not do this belly project with Baby #4, since I already looked pregnant before I actually got pregnant. Why not showcase how large and in charge this fourth pregnancy is making me :)
There is a time in every pregnancy that is hard for me. That awkward phase from Week 10-20 that just shows chubbiness is hard for me to handle. On the flip side, I will be the first one to talk to you about how beautiful pregnancy really is. A BABY is growing inside of me. And that baby is going to come out just as beautiful as my other 3 kids, and we will take our unconditional love and give that to our new bundle of joy. Its amazing what a woman's body can do.
Anyways, here I am. At this point I'm almost 16 weeks, but this is a 15 week photo. That's important because I grow tremendously. Every day. A lot. So by the next photo in this project, you'll all probably be like "omg, Sheryl is almost due!". But rest assured, my Pregnancy app on my phone tells me I have 171 days left. So cook on Baby Maier!
Love,
Your largely friend
I'm not gonna lie- I feel a tad guilty that I didn't do this with my other kids. But I make myself feel better by reminding myself that every one of my kids has gotten something from me that the other hasn't. Like for instance, Will got $5 for lunch this morning, and when Jake asked for lunch money, he only got $1. To be fair, Will really does need money for lunch at school. At any rate, not every child will get the same treatment at every moment.
I'm getting totally off topic (whats new).
Surprisingly I am doing this Baby #4 Belly Project. Of course I didn't do it when I was uber tiny with Will. And I actually did do ONE photo shoot at the end of my pregnancy with Jake. And I tried to keep up on belly pics with Soph, but I just couldn't remember to do the picture! So, why not do this belly project with Baby #4, since I already looked pregnant before I actually got pregnant. Why not showcase how large and in charge this fourth pregnancy is making me :)
There is a time in every pregnancy that is hard for me. That awkward phase from Week 10-20 that just shows chubbiness is hard for me to handle. On the flip side, I will be the first one to talk to you about how beautiful pregnancy really is. A BABY is growing inside of me. And that baby is going to come out just as beautiful as my other 3 kids, and we will take our unconditional love and give that to our new bundle of joy. Its amazing what a woman's body can do.
Anyways, here I am. At this point I'm almost 16 weeks, but this is a 15 week photo. That's important because I grow tremendously. Every day. A lot. So by the next photo in this project, you'll all probably be like "omg, Sheryl is almost due!". But rest assured, my Pregnancy app on my phone tells me I have 171 days left. So cook on Baby Maier!
Love,
Your largely friend
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Chores smores
Every couple has their roles in life, and every family is different. That's cool. Nowadays moms work full time, and dads stay home to care for their kids. Women are powerful. Men do the grocery shopping.
Like every family, we have a situation that works for us - Nathan works, he is the breadwinner for this household. I stay home with the kids, and have a growing photography business on the side. Since I stay home, I'm pretty sure that its assumed that I will take on the most chores: cleaning the bathrooms (gag), doing the laundry (my worst enemy), the floors (upstairs and down), picking up rooms (which needs to be done every time a child enters a room). Yes, its true, Nathan is extremely helpful when it comes to cooking meals and helping clean up the kitchen. But let's be honest, the vast majority of chores are written with my name next to it. In stone.
Whenever I go to a friends home (whether they stay home too or not), I feel like their house is always clean. And my house is almost always disheveled. And by "disheveled", I mean TORE UP! Let's not kid ourselves though, when I know someone is coming over, I clean up, and this house looks (somewhat) presentable. And I love love love when people compliment my house. Makes me giggle inside. I wonder if my friends do the same.....
Anyways, the truth is about to be revealed, and I'm sure Nathan will love my pure honesty. Here it is: Taking care of our energetic kids all day tires a prego out. Just to get a meal ready, kids fed, cleaned, and mess picked up, I genuinely feel like I just had a solid 30 minute work out. Seriously. Soo.... this is what the house looks like during the day:
Nate usually calls me on his way home, so I'm able to get my hustle on and pick up the house.
That also makes me giggle inside :)
So there it is friends. I'm a lazy bum who lets her house fall apart while her husband is at work. I mean, I can't be alone in this right?
Tiredly yours,
Sher
Like every family, we have a situation that works for us - Nathan works, he is the breadwinner for this household. I stay home with the kids, and have a growing photography business on the side. Since I stay home, I'm pretty sure that its assumed that I will take on the most chores: cleaning the bathrooms (gag), doing the laundry (my worst enemy), the floors (upstairs and down), picking up rooms (which needs to be done every time a child enters a room). Yes, its true, Nathan is extremely helpful when it comes to cooking meals and helping clean up the kitchen. But let's be honest, the vast majority of chores are written with my name next to it. In stone.
Whenever I go to a friends home (whether they stay home too or not), I feel like their house is always clean. And my house is almost always disheveled. And by "disheveled", I mean TORE UP! Let's not kid ourselves though, when I know someone is coming over, I clean up, and this house looks (somewhat) presentable. And I love love love when people compliment my house. Makes me giggle inside. I wonder if my friends do the same.....
Anyways, the truth is about to be revealed, and I'm sure Nathan will love my pure honesty. Here it is: Taking care of our energetic kids all day tires a prego out. Just to get a meal ready, kids fed, cleaned, and mess picked up, I genuinely feel like I just had a solid 30 minute work out. Seriously. Soo.... this is what the house looks like during the day:
Nate usually calls me on his way home, so I'm able to get my hustle on and pick up the house.
That also makes me giggle inside :)
So there it is friends. I'm a lazy bum who lets her house fall apart while her husband is at work. I mean, I can't be alone in this right?
Tiredly yours,
Sher
Monday, December 12, 2011
Welcome to the Zoo.
For realsies.
I'm even going to make a sign that says 'Welcome to the Zoo'. And I also want a sign that says 'Please excuse the mess, my children are making memories', but that sign is irrelevant.
So I've been listening to alot of people in our lives lately analyze our kids. I'm not sure if its because our kids have huge personalites and are full of passion, if its because they can't handle the life my kids fill a room with, or if its because they are the type of people who don't like puppies. At any rate, no one knows my kids like I do, and a blog post sure as heck isn't going to even shed a little light on their amazingness, but at least it'll give a little explanation for the next time you are around them.
First and foremost, I am a firm believer that birth order makes a difference in personality traits. So let's hit that first (you can go here and here to read the articles I am quoting):
First borns are natural leaders. "They also tend to be reliable, conscientious and perfectionists who don't like surprises. Although, firstborns are typically aggressive, many are also compliant people pleasers. They are model children who have a strong need for approval from anyone in charge."
Middle children "are the most difficult to pin down" and "does not openly share his thoughts or feelings". "They can usually read people well, they are peacemakers who see all sides of a situation, they are independent and inventive."
"While lastborns may be charming, they also have the potential to be manipulative, spoiled or babied to the point of helplessness." "Younger children tend to get along in the world better – a trait known as 'agreeableness'".
Ok, so with that being said, I also think that nurture has a lot to do with how children act and grow. I'll be the first to admit that we aren't perfect, or even in the vicinity of perfect, parents. We don't beat or starve our kids, so they are pretty lucky nonetheless. We let our kids be themselves, and I take pride in that. We don't make them feel bad for being too silly or loud (though there are times and places for that). People say my kids are loud. Guess what? I'M loud. So shocker that my kids would be too right? Nate likes to play fight with the boys, so our boys play fight with other kids. It's just what kids do. They learn from their environment, take that info, and mold it to fit their personality. Accept it, because thats how you became who you are today too!
Will - is silly. Is a people pleaser (which I always say, and what the article above says!). He truly loves to make others smile, at all expenses. He is creative. He loves to draw. Tell stories. Dance. We should all be lucky to have him share his huge imagination and creativity with us. He loves to know that people love him, and even though he is 8 and tries to act so tough, I still find him trying to cuddle with me sometimes.
Jake - is Jake. The kid has more silly faces than any other human. He is definitely our loudest child, most outspoken (yes, at 3). He wants what he wants, and he'll fight for it. He's a leader for sure. He is the furtherest thing from a push over. He loves his family, and for as long as I can remember, puts people in their place if he thinks anyone is talking meanly to another person. He is super smart - I can't wait to see what he grows up to be! He is the most energetic child I have ever seen, and some days I couldn't keep up with him if you paid me.
Sophia - is our tiny little baby girl. She really is so sweet. She carries baby dolls around (which is new for us, and I totally love), and she quietly plays to herself. She loves to dance, and she absolutely LOVES when her big brothers pay attention to her. She is also very sassy. She wants us to know when she is unhappy, and she is figuring out ways to let us know. I'm definitely in no hurry to see what the arrival of her little sibling will do to her attitude!
My kids are the loves of my life. They are my whole life. And I get so beyond frustrated when I hear people say things about my kids; "Your kid is too wild" "He is too loud" "Doesn't that kid calm down". I literally could shake the people who say these things. First of all, my kids are KIDS. They are supposed to be crazy. They are little people who don't quite know that most adults are cranks. They are figuring out the world. They don't know rules like 'don't scream at Target, it annoys people'. Or 'don't run through the racks at Ross, someone might steal you'. These are things they are learning. But do believe me when I say, my kids will learn these things. And while I teach it to them, I will continue to let them be themselves.
And don't judge my parenting, by the way. I have 3 pretty fantastical kids, and I didn't even get a manual on what to do after child comes out of the birth canal. No one suggested a 'Raise human this way for correct results' book. No one said "Hey, take the Right way to Parent class". I say that as long as you love your child, show them kindness, teach them to be a kind and productive member of society, and let them be themselves, you are doing good.
So in good 'ol bragging rights fashion, I leave you with this - my kids are cuter than yours ;)
xoxo,
Sher
I'm even going to make a sign that says 'Welcome to the Zoo'. And I also want a sign that says 'Please excuse the mess, my children are making memories', but that sign is irrelevant.
So I've been listening to alot of people in our lives lately analyze our kids. I'm not sure if its because our kids have huge personalites and are full of passion, if its because they can't handle the life my kids fill a room with, or if its because they are the type of people who don't like puppies. At any rate, no one knows my kids like I do, and a blog post sure as heck isn't going to even shed a little light on their amazingness, but at least it'll give a little explanation for the next time you are around them.
First and foremost, I am a firm believer that birth order makes a difference in personality traits. So let's hit that first (you can go here and here to read the articles I am quoting):
First borns are natural leaders. "They also tend to be reliable, conscientious and perfectionists who don't like surprises. Although, firstborns are typically aggressive, many are also compliant people pleasers. They are model children who have a strong need for approval from anyone in charge."
Middle children "are the most difficult to pin down" and "does not openly share his thoughts or feelings". "They can usually read people well, they are peacemakers who see all sides of a situation, they are independent and inventive."
"While lastborns may be charming, they also have the potential to be manipulative, spoiled or babied to the point of helplessness." "Younger children tend to get along in the world better – a trait known as 'agreeableness'".
Ok, so with that being said, I also think that nurture has a lot to do with how children act and grow. I'll be the first to admit that we aren't perfect, or even in the vicinity of perfect, parents. We don't beat or starve our kids, so they are pretty lucky nonetheless. We let our kids be themselves, and I take pride in that. We don't make them feel bad for being too silly or loud (though there are times and places for that). People say my kids are loud. Guess what? I'M loud. So shocker that my kids would be too right? Nate likes to play fight with the boys, so our boys play fight with other kids. It's just what kids do. They learn from their environment, take that info, and mold it to fit their personality. Accept it, because thats how you became who you are today too!
Will - is silly. Is a people pleaser (which I always say, and what the article above says!). He truly loves to make others smile, at all expenses. He is creative. He loves to draw. Tell stories. Dance. We should all be lucky to have him share his huge imagination and creativity with us. He loves to know that people love him, and even though he is 8 and tries to act so tough, I still find him trying to cuddle with me sometimes.
Jake - is Jake. The kid has more silly faces than any other human. He is definitely our loudest child, most outspoken (yes, at 3). He wants what he wants, and he'll fight for it. He's a leader for sure. He is the furtherest thing from a push over. He loves his family, and for as long as I can remember, puts people in their place if he thinks anyone is talking meanly to another person. He is super smart - I can't wait to see what he grows up to be! He is the most energetic child I have ever seen, and some days I couldn't keep up with him if you paid me.
Sophia - is our tiny little baby girl. She really is so sweet. She carries baby dolls around (which is new for us, and I totally love), and she quietly plays to herself. She loves to dance, and she absolutely LOVES when her big brothers pay attention to her. She is also very sassy. She wants us to know when she is unhappy, and she is figuring out ways to let us know. I'm definitely in no hurry to see what the arrival of her little sibling will do to her attitude!
My kids are the loves of my life. They are my whole life. And I get so beyond frustrated when I hear people say things about my kids; "Your kid is too wild" "He is too loud" "Doesn't that kid calm down". I literally could shake the people who say these things. First of all, my kids are KIDS. They are supposed to be crazy. They are little people who don't quite know that most adults are cranks. They are figuring out the world. They don't know rules like 'don't scream at Target, it annoys people'. Or 'don't run through the racks at Ross, someone might steal you'. These are things they are learning. But do believe me when I say, my kids will learn these things. And while I teach it to them, I will continue to let them be themselves.
And don't judge my parenting, by the way. I have 3 pretty fantastical kids, and I didn't even get a manual on what to do after child comes out of the birth canal. No one suggested a 'Raise human this way for correct results' book. No one said "Hey, take the Right way to Parent class". I say that as long as you love your child, show them kindness, teach them to be a kind and productive member of society, and let them be themselves, you are doing good.
So in good 'ol bragging rights fashion, I leave you with this - my kids are cuter than yours ;)
xoxo,
Sher
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Guess what?
Baby butt!
Soooo..... I'mmmm.....!
Soooo..... I'mmmm.....!
It's true!
Well, 7 if you count Jack the Dog.
We are beyond thrilled, and feel so blessed that we are adding a new member to our family. Our kids are our lives, they are our pride and joy, and we honestly couldn't be happier! Actually, I suppose I could be a tad happier if I weren't so sick :)
I am just under 9 weeks, and we weren't planning on shouting it out to the world until I was out of my first trimester since I have had miscarriages in the past. However, people talk whether we want them to or not, and I was feeling guilty that people dear to us were finding out, and it wasn't coming from us. I don't want anyone to feel like we weren't sharing this information with them. {If this is sounding super dramatic, its because it is. Listen, my horomones are on overdrive people, cut me some slack!}
At any rate, baby #4 is due on June 4th, so luckily I don't have to pregnant throughout the hot hot summer, yeah baby!
Congrats to Will and Jake to becoming big brothers again, and to our little Phia Phia to becoming a big sister. This baby is the luckiest!
Nate says our kidney bean looks like a boy, what do you think? :)
xoxo,
Sher
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Spaghetti dogs
I found the cutest idea on Pinterest the other day, and just HAD to try it! So I gathered up my favorite red head, and we had a little fun! It was one of a few projects where I wasn't a complete control freak ;)
xoxo,
Sher
xoxo,
Sher
Thursday, May 26, 2011
You spent HOW much at Costco??!?!?!
I recently discovered the awesomeness of Costco.
With our family growing so much, bulk is definitely the way for us to go! Last week I bought a ton of meat and groceries to start stocking up our new home, and I spent less than $180! When I went that day, I wanted to show Nathan what I bought, because I was way excited, buuuuuut, I had to put the stuff away before he got home.
So I decided that today I would show him! You're looking at $193.57 worth of stuff (not including the 2 cases of water and dog bed I also bought)!
Jake's diapers will last him at least a month and a half, and the baby wipes will last at least 3-4 months. The coffee and creamer will last us over a month for sure!
I'm not sure if Nathan will be as excited as I am once he sees the bill, but honestly, I feel like I hit the motherload!
With our family growing so much, bulk is definitely the way for us to go! Last week I bought a ton of meat and groceries to start stocking up our new home, and I spent less than $180! When I went that day, I wanted to show Nathan what I bought, because I was way excited, buuuuuut, I had to put the stuff away before he got home.
So I decided that today I would show him! You're looking at $193.57 worth of stuff (not including the 2 cases of water and dog bed I also bought)!
Jake's diapers will last him at least a month and a half, and the baby wipes will last at least 3-4 months. The coffee and creamer will last us over a month for sure!
I'm not sure if Nathan will be as excited as I am once he sees the bill, but honestly, I feel like I hit the motherload!
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