What it means to me

I don't do a whole lot of deep talk (writing rather) in here, but tonight I feel compelled to. What I say is nothing but my opinion, and is simply what I believe.

The kids and I went to church this morning. We were invited by Ryan's parents. He didn't go, and I'm 100% ok with that. Will I go back? That's debatable. 

I didn't have a life changing experience. I know all about the bible, God & Jesus, the relationship and so on (I know I'm not an expert, just a figure of speech), I was into that when I was in high school. I have grown up, and I realized a long time ago that certain beliefs I did not agree with. I always felt awkward and out of place when I would go, and I finally realized it just really wasn't my thing.

 I haven't been to church in a very long time either, and it was very awkward for me this morning. I cannot explain what I felt other than that. I was actually quite nervous! 

This is what I can tell you:

I believe that there is a god for everyone, and whatever that god is to them is their business. I cannot change what they believe and I don't ever want to. If that makes any sense. If that's what makes you happy, gives you peace, then so be it. 

I'm not big on debates, that gets people nowhere, and I'm not one to argue against values. I will say, though, that when my kids are old enough to understand and ask me about it, I will teach them whatever they want to know. It's not my choice to deny them anything that they want to learn. And if they want to go and be a part of a church I will not stop them. I want to and will support whatever life throws at them and me!

So that's my "deep insight" for now-and I'm sorry if I offended anyone, but it's something I had to get off my chest. 

Onto real life matters of our day:

After church the girls went to the farm and I came home. Ry and I watched a movie (21 Jump Street-love it!!) and then headed to the farm as well. 

I did some online Xmas shopping for the kids-that took me forever, as I'm very indecisive! 

Lots of "tractor" rides tonight.

The kids are so worn out, and played out, but they had so much fun!

Until tomorrow!! 

Ps-enjoy the storms tonight!!! :-) 

Artsy fartsy

The kids got crafty this morning. They painted. I was instructed to get Henry's hand prints for Ryan. That is what he wants done for his next tattoo. I found the stamp pads at Walmart (after asking); they are smaller than Henry's hand! I got the job done though. 

He rode like a big boy for the first time today, too!! 

He loved the paper more than the paint! After he tried eating the paint, he wasn't really into it much more.

He did great at smearing it all over!

I had an end photo, but he was screaming...so just picture his face with paint on it :-) 

Iz enjoys coloring mixing her projects.

Vi really liked the stamp pads.

We ventured to the park this afternoon. As humid as it was, the girls were driving me nuts and they needed fresh air. Plus-it was finally dry enough. 

Lots of climbing

Lots of swinging 

Lots of attempted wood chip eating

We didn't stay long, it got hotter the longer we stayed. 

We rented a few movies and chilled this evening. Nothing too exciting!

Until tomorrow! 

Those eyes!!! 

Argh....

I had a lot of argh moments today-all tonight I should say.

Iz got to school just fine for day two. Literally I dropped her at the door and left. Her teacher kind if made it so we couldn't go in- of which I'm just fine with. 

I did get Vi to nap today, so I snoozed a bit myself.

 Viola's two year molars are pushing hard, so she was just awake, not upset, but awake at 130 this morning. 

I had to wake her up from her nap though ( the biggest downfall to afternoon preschool)...and we got Iz. 

The minute we got home it started storming and Iz was naughty. Not sure why, but she pushed every button beyond all measures. I took more deep breaths and counted than I can remember. Things got better after dinner, though, and settling down.

This girl was a nut job this morning. She wore my socks all over (not in public though), and was proud of them.

Henry is trying so hard to figure out how to go forward! I love to just sit and watch him think! He cracks me up! 

He 100% fed himself tonight, too! Big boy. Makes me sad. 

I couldn't resist...he has a monster booty tonight!! :-) 

Iz did her typical constructing and building, and was wound up! I know we have a lot of new adjustments going on, and I just have to keep reminding myself of that (as hard as that really is!). Grandma Annie stopped in quick too to see how our school girl is doing! Both girls were pretty excited!! 

Ryan brought home some pink roses. I'm assuming they are for me (thanks babe!), but these two were super excited as well!! :-) 

Until tomorrow! 

:-)

First day of school

Today was the big day! I was nervous for Iz. Only because at the open house she wanted me next to her for everything. I'm happy to report though, she did fabulous! 

She didn't hold back

No hesitations

She dived right in and did what she was told! They're to wash their hands at drop off.

Viola was lost once we got home. She kept asking for her sister, and where she was at. 

Her pick up was probably one of my proudest mommy moments ever!

She's at the back of the line, but the pure shock/joy/surprise look in her face that we came back was beyond priceless!

She was elated to see us!

Her sister couldn't contain her excitement either!

They are to wait until their teacher knows we are there to get them; so the hug goodbye is what they do! I love it!

She loved Miss Linda! 

I don't think I could be any happier or excited for her and what's to come! This little lady is changing so quickly! I can't wait for her to learn so muck more!! 

Until tomorrow!

Someone loves to crawl and push backwards!!! 

Ankeny

We finally made it up to Ankeny for our day long play date! It was just what I needed, as well as Brianne! I love having that connection with someone who, no matter what you say, go through, or need help, is always there for you! We are sisters, not just friends. I know I've mentioned that in the past, but it's true. Our kiddos get along great, and I love watching them play! 

Viola talked about baby Caylee in the car, all the way to their house! She was so excited to see her and steal some (very short) snuggles.

The kiddos (minus Corinne since she was at school) had pizza for lunch, played dress up, cars, played at the park- which we walked to...

and all sorts of fun things. 

Viola became a fireman! And in the  background Iz and Chase are playing the piano! 

Henry loves his new friend!! 

He's already protective of her! :-) 

Isabelle also did the ice bucket challenge! Corinne nominated her last night and she was very excited to do it!  

She did a great job!! I'm so proud of her! 

Until tomorrow!! 

Bbbrrrrr......   ;-)

Open house

Aside from spending time with the cousins this morning, our day was focused on Isabelle going to her preschool open house tonight! I've been telling her what her new school will be like...we've even read books about going to school, so I hope I've prepared enough! 

She's been so excited all day, but was very nervous and shy when we got there. 

We took a picture on our way! 

Outside the school. She is at a different school for the first half of the year. Her school is still undergoing a remodel! 

Outside her room (sorry, I took pictures of everything I could).

My mom came with...here she found her "locker"

Viola made herself right at home!

Building with magnablocks. She loved these at Vet Med, so I'm glad I saw a lot of the same centers/educational items that she's used to. I think it will make her transition somewhat easier (I hope).

Vi played dr with Grammy

These two just hung out, took in the sights. :-)

She loved her new library! It's big, and full of awesome books (from what I could tell). 

After, we got ice cream at a&w!

We had fun! It was a good evening! 

Until tomorrow!

I couldn't only have one picture of him...so here's number two!