Happy Mother's Day

To every mother out there, Happy Mother's Day. As many know the task of being a mother is incredibly tasking. The moments can be joyous, emotional, nerve-racking, and totally rewarding. I consider myself a mother who is rewarded. Even though some days are not as "rewarding" as others there are moments of pure joy. As follows:

* Obviously giving birth to each of my children. The memories are ingrained in my head so vividly even now.
* The laughter I can get my children to display when we are cooking, riding around, or just playing.
* The feel of my children in my arms. My kids were not cuddler's from the beginning but have grown to be over the years.
* The struggles over discipline, eating, and bed time that make my marriage to Jason stronger.
* And finally, just simply being able to be called a "mother".

Frederick Meijer Gardens

On Tuesday I had the privelage of accompanying 2 teachers, 12 mothers, and 51 kindergarten students to the Frederick Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids. I have never been there before so I was excited to see the Butterflies Blooming. It turned out to be a chilly day but the kids didn't seem to mind in the least. We started our trip with a bus ride and when we arrived we walked through a desert setting and then wandered into the butterfly exhibit. It was spectacular to see all the butterflies just flitting about like they didn't have a care in the world. Despite the warm temperatures in the butterfly sanctuary, it was awesome to just look at the different flowering plants and butterflies. The kids patience level was nothing like mine. Of course they would flit from one spot to the next and were ready to go after about 5 minutes. Here is a slideshow of some snapshots we took throughout the day.

Why Me?

I need a moment to whine and whimper for myself. As you may remember, we welcomed all sorts of sickness into our house a few weeks ago. And guess what? It's still not over! What have I done to deserve this? I ask you, am I a terrible person? Have I committed some horrific sin against someone and this is my penance? Over the weekend Logyn walked around with a rash that looked like sunburn and a fever of 102 degrees. Now this morning Maddy woke up with both eyes swollen and bloodshot. Yes, the nurses said it was pink-eye. Why is this happening to me? Why can't I have one normal day? I tell you it's just not fair! Okay, I'm done now.

Kudos to you!

I must give a huge "Kudos" to the working moms out there. I have struggled for the last few weeks to maintain some sense of control over my household when I'm only working one day a week. My whole system of functioning has gone by the wayside. I applaud those out there who can maintain their households as well as their work lifes. Congratulations on a job well done!

I caved in today and finally took the kids to the park. I say "caved in" because every morning that the sun is shining they tend to think that it's 70 degrees outside and a great day for the park. I was aiming for a photo shoot of Loryn and Logyn but didn't get much help there. Loryn looks constipated and Logyn just had no desire to look at the camera.


So I scrapped the photo shoot and just let them be kids for the day. Here are some pictures.

Sickness Is Upon Us!

WARNING: This post may contain some vulgar descriptions.

The sickness has descended upon our household. It infects mostly the children but we adults are in the beginning stages. The following is a description of symptoms. The whines lead way into a fit of coughing so hard vomit spews forth. Then paranoia sets in for fear of puking again. Boogers are a permanent fixture on their cheeks since they are unaware of the invention of the kleenex. Carpet cleaner is on patrol to ward off the stains left behind by phlegm when a sneeze sneaks up on them. I believe the CDC will be making a visit sometime next week.

What's that famous phrase everyone says to me? Oh right, "This too shall pass".

WARNING: The following pictures are intended for adult viewing only.

No vomit was spewed forth in this picture.

Rough shape wouldn't you say?

Spring Break or Bust?

It was a bust. We tried to take the kids to Silver Lake yesterday to stay for a few days but it fell through. We were planning on opening up the cottage for Jason's mom but couldn't get any water. So with no water and no heat we loaded the kids up again and drove home to much whining and crying. The beginning of our day should have been a premonition. Logyn woke up with croup and when we brought him into the doctor's office they sent us on to the hospital because they didn't feel comfortable sending him home. He had 104 degree fever and was coughing really bad. So we hung out in the ER for 3 hours before they sent us on our way. Next time I'll take heed of any forwarning that is looking me right in the face. I guess we weren't meant to travel on Spring Break like 75 % of the nation. Enjoy yours!