Giving it ALL

This kid gives it ALL each week.

His determination, intensity and passion speak loudly.

He's struggling right now... not with the game of basketball but with the move of his best friend and his coach (of two sports).

I see the frustration. It manifests itself in pure crankiness and often tears (about something totally unrelated).




He's taught me a large lesson. I need to give my ALL each day when parenting. It's not acceptable to not be intense and determined and focused.

I need to think outside the box with this kid... I need to know how to get out of sticky situations with him. He's an extremely sensitive kid and he often tells me to "not yell at him"... and I shake my head... {I'm not yelling.} But, in his eyes and ears anything stern is yelling and he shuts down.

Oh, the joys of parenting... It's a daily struggle and joy to parent.

Stay focused, be determined, have intensity...


Give it ALL.

Tradition

I have not sent out a traditional card in a couple of years. That whole Masters "thing" really sent me for a loop... I did create a slide show that I sent via email during that time. While I LOVED the slide show (so many pictures to include and songs, etc) it wasn't the simplicity of a card. So, this year I've purchased cards. I used the picture above... went with the theme of the year... "how many sports can we play at this house"... and had some fun.

Now to address the envelopes... ha, who am I kidding... I need to find the address book!

He's 9!

Phineous is 9! My Thanksgiving (born a month early baby is 9!

This year is a year to celebrate with family... which the kids are skeptical about. But it proved to be a great birthday celebration.



We surprised him with the chance to watch Oregon vs. Duke on Saturday. He went with his two buddies and the three Dad's. He had no idea he was going... we told him to get ready to head to the store (he put on his Ducks shirt... cause he always wears his Duck shirt) and we stalled for the friends to arrive. He kept asking if his buddies could come and play and we kept putting him off. Finally the door bell sounded and his buddies had arrived... he and Joe got in the car and the friends told him where he was going. So cool! (He loved the game!)



The second surprise was an ipod touch. I know, I know... he's only 9. What do you do when it's the only thing he wants, you get a great deal, he's very responsible and it's the only thing he wants?!?!!? He LOVES it. He has even shared with his brother without.being.asked!

It was a great celebration! Which wasn't complete with out plain cheesecake :)


I can't believe he's 9! I'm trying hard to enjoy this year because I keep thinking... I'm going to have two kids in double digits next year... aaaagh! Enjoy this season :)

Gratitude :: 10

I am grateful for a "girl" day... a fun "Just Dance" workout, a pedicure and lunch. A little spoiling {especially when Mama gets the kids cold} is very nice.

Gratitude :: 9

Grateful to be able {although sometimes not willing} to workout... especially with friends.

Gratitude :: 8

Grateful to practice my teaching skills... I was blessed with the opportunity to sub at my old preschool!

Gratitude :: 7

I'm grateful for two boys that {sometimes} get along and do great things together.