The Crazy Comes Out in My Kids When Daddy Is Away

Does that seem to always happen to you? We have chosen not to put our children in childcare during the summer. Partly because we are gone for a lot of it, but mostly because it is so expensive! But when one parent is away, it can really make you rethink the no summer care decision! So what usually happens when one parent is away you ask. My kids go crazy. ( I have learned this happens more when daddy is away. When I am away they are perfect little angels...what is that about?) So how do I fix the situation? Thursday was a prime example, of crazy kid behavior. Daddy was heading out of town, so we waited to see him off. I had a few things to finish at the office, but not without moaning and groaning to leave. So I packed up my things, and made an office at McDonald's. Free Wi-fi is my friend! The kids could play while I checked emails, and finished reports. Plus unlimited refills :). While its not optimal, it did allow me to get a few things done. In hindsite, I should have taken a picture, I was in uniform to boot. I was probably the subject of many stares, but I was too busy drinking my coke and eating the new smore's pie (yes, it is really good!) Friday was a tad trickier. Programs had to be printed, and that has to be done in the office. I had to break our "no video game on the week day" rule, so I could get a few things done. I managed to stay until 11 am before I couldn't stand one more drawer being opened. We packed up and managed to squeeze errands to the post office and grocery store in. Thankfully neighborhood friends saved the day. I was able to work a little bit on my sermon and mow the grass! (It was becoming the jungle of the neighborhood...again) Saturday a trip to camp was just the break we needed. Camp staff was coming home, so we left early to let the kids enjoy camp before packing the staff up and bringing them home. Although very whiney, we managed to make it home in the mini-van with five of us, and a summer's worth of luggage for two teenagers. Even a bike! (Why am I not taking pictures of all of this hilarity?) We will see what next week holds. I will be sure to use my camera! It should be a funny sight.

By Golly...I've found it...

For the last year, I have been craving a simpler lifestyle.  One with less clutter, less mess, and less distraction.  I didn't have a name for it, but I knew what I wanted.  Then I came across the word minimilist.  When I looked it up, it encompassed everything I have been striving for!  With less stuff comes more time for Faith, Family, and Friends.  (not to mention, more space!)  The things that are most important in my life. 

Most recently, in my quest for less distraction, I decided to leave facebook.  I was spending way too much time on there.  Although it has been an awesome way to connect with friends and corps members, I just knew I needed a break.  I have felt God calling me to a life free of clutter.  Facebook was one of those things clogging up my life.  I want more time with my family, and more importantly with God.  Perhaps one day I will return, but for right now, I have peace knowing that this is what I am supposed to do.  Who knows, maybe I will have more time to write about the things I love on here.

Like Mother, Like Daughter...(and I like my hair too!)

I love this picture of J and I taken around Mother's Day 2012

Summer

P and J posing for their mom after school ended! 

It is hard to believe that the kids start back to school in just four weeks!  (My husband is shouting the hallelujahs!)  For me the summer has flown by.  The kids went to their grandparents for three weeks and now we are headed to camps for the next two.  Although my summer has gone differently than I thought it would, I wouldn't change it for the world.  Their faces here say it all!  They are happy and that is all that matters!