To my future self, or our children, or our grandchildren who will at some point in life experience change through moving:
I get it.
When I hear the word "move" and think of the changes surrounding it, my initial reaction is a throat-closing-off-heart-pounding-out-of-my-chest sensation. Even after moving to four different states in an eight year time period. Or wait. Maybe it's because of the four moves to four states in eight years those feelings come to mind.
While the reasons for moves are as different as the brush strokes on a canvas, remember the purpose of your path. Keep your perspective broad and remember we are here on earth to learn and grow. If the opportunity has arrived for you to learn and grow through moving, embrace it. Hold tight to it.
Choose to trust.
You might be moving five minutes from where you currently live. You may be moving to a place you've never been to, where you don't know anyone and where you can't even figure out which way is North.
Choose to trust. North is always constant. You'll find it again.
And remember, there is good everywhere if you choose to find it. If you choose to discover it. If you choose to proactively allow yourself to embrace it.
You might feel worried or guilty or fearful that changing through moving will bring added stress/worry/discomfort to your children. It probably will. Maybe they will feel anxious or depressed. They might lose confidence in themselves. But this is nothing to feel guilty, worried or fearful about. Trust the process. Let them wobble in unsure ground and give them space to dig deeper into their roots. To learn their true identity isn't made by friends or accomplishments but in knowing that God, their Father, loves them - no matter what, and has not forgotten them. Let them soak in the satisfaction of truly understanding resilience. Of working through the struggle while climbing the mountain. Let them climb.
You might have moments where you question why. Or you look back and remember how comfortable life was. You may even run scenarios of trying to rewind or undo the change. Give yourself permission to have a bad day, to talk out those thoughts, and to validate yourself back into truth. Back into your purpose. Back into trust. Sometimes you'll be able to do this on your own. And sometimes you'll need the help of someone who can lift you where you stand. It may be a spouse, a parent, a friend who has moved and understands the journey. It may be a professional - a person trained with the tools to help reframe mental thoughts back into truth. Trust that while the past has brought you to where you are today, it is who you become with the present that matters most.
The moving process will probably give you an opportunity for a clean slate and a fresh start. Take advantage. It may mean letting go of things/items that can serve a purpose with others before you leave. Be prayerful and the Lord will guide you. Remember that no matter the current home, or goods you own, they will never bring you the joy and satisfaction that comes from learning and growing through trust in God.
In your new area, you may feel lonely at times. You may yearn for old connections and friendships. There are so many tools out there to keep you connected - use them to fuel you, but don't rely on them. No technology will replace the growth that will come from face to face connections you will make with those that surround you. Give that loneliness to God. Because while you may feel lonely, you are never alone. Pray for ways to be proactive and ideas to get to know those around you. Then go and do them. Stepping out of your comfort zone may be a big challenge for you, but it will probably become one of the most rewarding. Trust those ideas of connection as they come to you.
You may be starting new job or supporting a spouse or parent who is starting a new job. It may be hard. There may be unforeseen challenges. There may also be unforeseen opportunities. Encourage them. Lift them. You will always be stronger together. And remember, you're on the same team.
You may need to let go of things that no longer serve you, and moving may instigate this change. Let go of the resistance and trying to hold onto old ways, and become curious. It may begin a learning journey for new routines in every day life that you may have never considered had you stayed comfortable. Allow yourself to be molded into who He desires you to be.
You may need to let go. Of work. Of volunteer commitments. Of a whole list of things you once identified yourself with. And that's okay. Remember that all of those things had purpose in the present, and it's okay to give yourself permission to embrace new chapters. As you lean into the new, unseen opportunities and understanding about your true identity as a Child of God will become more clear.
Remember the small and simple tools of connection with God. Pray, study the scriptures and obey His words to the best of your ability. Begin a daily habit of the small and simple if you have not yet. It will be a strength to you, it will open the path for you to know His will for you more directly, and it will remind you that through His strength, we can do all things.
One day, you'll walk around your house, and it will feel like home. It most likely won't happen until you've put your heart into the place - cleaning, organizing, unpacking and hanging things with meaning on your walls - but it will happen. The day will come that you unconsciously turn on a light switch - one that you couldn't find on the wall initially. You'll no longer run into doors or walls during the middle of the night. You'll hear a sound and know exactly where it's coming from. But beyond any of the things you place in the house, the feelings of "home" will come from the memories you choose to create within its walls. Be consistent with those simple moments that will bring connection and peace to you.
You may experience a burning desire to explore. In ways you never felt before. Trust those feelings and to the best of your ability - with your commitments, time and finances, explore. It could be as simple as a Saturday afternoon adventure, or an overnight camping experience. It may mean a mini-vacation. As you explore, you may find a burning desire to learn the cultures and traditions of where you live. Take the time to learn them. The more you learn about where you are, the more you'll see the beauty in those who surround you. It may increase your desire to learn more about who you are. Study that. Embrace it.
One day you'll be driving in what was a new area, and will realize that you are able to navigate your way without the help of any digital assistance. Soak in this achievement. Celebrate it. Congratulate yourself on every destination you are able to reach with confidence.
Sometimes, you may look up to the sky and see clouds. The weather patterns and skyline may feel unfamiliar to you. Take time to learn these new patterns. And remember that no matter the clouds, the sun is always shining. It is always constant.
Grow the good. In your home. In your heart. In those you come in contact with each and every day.
Look up as you are in every day life. Look out to those who you can be mindful of and serve in small and simple ways.
Be patient with yourself. Do the things that fill you up. Maybe that's connecting with nature, going for walks and talking, exercising, deepening your meditation, prayer and scripture studying, developing a new hobby, or sitting down on the floor and playing with young children.
And above all, cultivate gratitude. Begin each and every day with a prayer of gratitude for the journey as it is unfolding. And end each day focusing on the specific ways God has been mindful of you.
Because he is.
His love for you is abundant.
Simply choose to trust.
Showing posts with label change. Show all posts
Showing posts with label change. Show all posts
Saturday, August 11, 2018
Friday, August 30, 2013
Roots and Branches
Maybe I've taught too much yoga, but this thought hit me like a truck one day while driving home from class. Literally. Except the truck was in front of me, and pulling a big tree that was headed off to be planted somewhere.
Fresh from vacation, we'd had a few experiences that triggered this whole analogy a bit more.
What am I writing about?
We're all roots and branches. Some of us are all roots, others all branches, and some of us are a bit of both. And as life changes, so do we.
Think of a person that is a root. Someone who knows where they are from, and where they have been. Comfortable with the place they are at, and choosing to root themselves in deeper. Maybe with a job, old friendships, their home, or possibly with things that tie their roots to memories of the past.
Then, think of a person who is a branch. Continually reaching and looking outward. Extending to new opportunities, challenges or friendships. Depending on their time spent as a branch, some extensions are sturdy and strong while others are delicate and fragile. Only time will tell whether they too will grow and flourish or break off only to begin somewhere else.
Then, think of what encompasses both a branch and a root. Recognizing the comfort of the past, while fully embracing the unknown. Likewise, someone who embodies both has a solid trunk establishing them firmly in the present.
I've seen what happens when someone delves into their roots deeply - so much that they seem to forget all other parts of the tree. Holding onto things or memories tighter than what is sitting in front of them. Reaching so badly for the roots, as if they are the only thing keeping them upright. And to a point, yes, they are what holds the tree down. But have you ever seen a tree survive in that way? I sure haven't!
I've also listened to lots of roots talk about how good their roots are. How firm they are in the ground, and how no other root can compare. And, to a point, I agree. But at the same time, I question if we all spent our time digging down under the ground, we'd have no opportunity to see the beautiful shade that's been created above us.
Likewise, if all we did was seek to create shade (and branch out), we'd miss the fundamental importance of what holds us in place. Possibly throwing away any sense of balance and literal solid ground beneath us.
Moving to two different states where we didn't know a soul has taught me a lot about what it means to grow a new branch. I know the feeling of walking into a room where you don't know a soul. And I've learned how awesome it is to visit the roots of comfort - family, friends and places of familiarity.
And I'm full of gratitude for those roots who decided to extend branches of help, reassurance and friendship. While they were rooted in consistency, they chose to look up and extend reach to those who were looking for something to grasp onto.
Because I also know what it is like to walk into a room full of roots who like to continue looking at their other roots. It's exhausting to break through.
With the analogy in place, I look ahead at where we could all be a bit more branchlike in our rootdriven lives. While keeping those roots protected, sheltered and safe is just as important as it is comfortable, maybe looking up at the branches every once in awhile is good too.
Fresh from vacation, we'd had a few experiences that triggered this whole analogy a bit more.
What am I writing about?
We're all roots and branches. Some of us are all roots, others all branches, and some of us are a bit of both. And as life changes, so do we.
Think of a person that is a root. Someone who knows where they are from, and where they have been. Comfortable with the place they are at, and choosing to root themselves in deeper. Maybe with a job, old friendships, their home, or possibly with things that tie their roots to memories of the past.
Then, think of a person who is a branch. Continually reaching and looking outward. Extending to new opportunities, challenges or friendships. Depending on their time spent as a branch, some extensions are sturdy and strong while others are delicate and fragile. Only time will tell whether they too will grow and flourish or break off only to begin somewhere else.
Then, think of what encompasses both a branch and a root. Recognizing the comfort of the past, while fully embracing the unknown. Likewise, someone who embodies both has a solid trunk establishing them firmly in the present.
I've seen what happens when someone delves into their roots deeply - so much that they seem to forget all other parts of the tree. Holding onto things or memories tighter than what is sitting in front of them. Reaching so badly for the roots, as if they are the only thing keeping them upright. And to a point, yes, they are what holds the tree down. But have you ever seen a tree survive in that way? I sure haven't!
I've also listened to lots of roots talk about how good their roots are. How firm they are in the ground, and how no other root can compare. And, to a point, I agree. But at the same time, I question if we all spent our time digging down under the ground, we'd have no opportunity to see the beautiful shade that's been created above us.
Likewise, if all we did was seek to create shade (and branch out), we'd miss the fundamental importance of what holds us in place. Possibly throwing away any sense of balance and literal solid ground beneath us.
Moving to two different states where we didn't know a soul has taught me a lot about what it means to grow a new branch. I know the feeling of walking into a room where you don't know a soul. And I've learned how awesome it is to visit the roots of comfort - family, friends and places of familiarity.
And I'm full of gratitude for those roots who decided to extend branches of help, reassurance and friendship. While they were rooted in consistency, they chose to look up and extend reach to those who were looking for something to grasp onto.
Because I also know what it is like to walk into a room full of roots who like to continue looking at their other roots. It's exhausting to break through.
With the analogy in place, I look ahead at where we could all be a bit more branchlike in our rootdriven lives. While keeping those roots protected, sheltered and safe is just as important as it is comfortable, maybe looking up at the branches every once in awhile is good too.
Monday, November 5, 2012
The Shower
It was dang hard getting Max to school those first few weeks. Dang hard to be his cheerleader all morning, convincing him to just keep trying. That he'd only feel alone for a tiny bit. That we'd meet more people and friends soon, and to hang in there. Super tough to hear him say his biggest worries were lunch and recess because he just sat there alone, or stood outside staring at everyone who already knew each other. Probably so tough to listen to, because all of this stress and turmoil was completely caused by yours truly and my other half.
I feel like he and I hit our rock bottom when he hid in the shower before school one morning. Hopeful that if he just hid it would all go away. Haven't we all felt like that at some point?
Everything just rocked that guys world. He is such a routine guy (hmmm...wonder where he gets that from!), and everything about this new school seemed different to him. Of course, so much of it is actually the same, but hey, when you want to see differences, you will. When you want to see similarities, you will.
So it took some time. And, since I knew we'd pretty much hit bottom, I knew there was nowhere to go but up. What we decided to do from there is what really mattered the most.
We had fun. Daily icee rewards for a happy guy. Daily goals to step out and say hi to someone. To talk to somebody new. To play in a different part of the playground to keep meeting more friends. Countless little goals. Daily role playing. Daily same and difference comparisons (I remember even being a little over the top at the grocery store one day. We were pointing out all the things that were same and different. "Hey Max! This store puts bananas in a different place than we've seen. Isn't that a great spot for them to go? And even though we had to find them a different way, it's still a banana!" Yeah. We did it all.). Lots of fun time with mom and the girls when he was home. Fun one on one time with me or Mike. Play dates with his new friends. Lots of stories from the scriptures of all those people full of courage and bravery. And lots of prayers. Lots.
But it all clicked. Little by little. One step at a time we were able to spread out those daily icee's to Fridays. Then they phased out. No more cheerleading to get him to go. Back to his usual morning jobs and routine before school.
And then, I found myself looking around one morning and we had evolved into our new normal.
Happy Max was confident, excited to go to school. Had friends to play with. Felt comfortable in his own skin.
Just as I can't really describe the challenge it is to watch your child go through the emotions of frustration, anxiety and loneliness, I can't really describe the fulfilling warmth in my heart to hear him say something like this:
Max: "Hey mom. I really like it here."
Me: "Oh yeah? How come?
Max: "You know, I really like my school. It's so cool. And fun." Pause. "Think I can go to that same school next year?"
Me: I chuckle at this question. Not the typical thought for a typical 6 year old. Most kids don't even think about that one. But, for Max, that is completely normal. He's been to a different school for every year so far. Preschools were in two different states (one in Utah, one in MN), then started off as a kindergartner in MN, and now he's doing first grade in Nebraska. So, I said,
"Buddy, that's a great question. And we're planning on it."
Max: The biggest grin around.
So fulfilling that I'm blessing him with this amazing perspective of change. How lucky he is to already understand change as a 6 year old - I love to hear him talk about memories we made in Utah or Minnesota, and with the same breath, talk about memories he's making right here in Omaha. How he's able to piece it all together, and recognize that while things are different, so many things are the same. And the things that are different are okay, and still work.
While I try to write how grateful I am for this experience, I still find it tough to put into words.
I think hitting those bottoms, those times where we just want to hide and keep ourselves from experiencing the discomfort of whatever it is that we are in, is tough. How we get out of those bottoms though - that is how we become who we are. I'm so grateful that we are in this journey together. I love that we are back in business, cruising along in comfortable. But more important than just being comfortable, I'm super grateful with how we got here.
I feel like he and I hit our rock bottom when he hid in the shower before school one morning. Hopeful that if he just hid it would all go away. Haven't we all felt like that at some point?
Everything just rocked that guys world. He is such a routine guy (hmmm...wonder where he gets that from!), and everything about this new school seemed different to him. Of course, so much of it is actually the same, but hey, when you want to see differences, you will. When you want to see similarities, you will.
So it took some time. And, since I knew we'd pretty much hit bottom, I knew there was nowhere to go but up. What we decided to do from there is what really mattered the most.
We had fun. Daily icee rewards for a happy guy. Daily goals to step out and say hi to someone. To talk to somebody new. To play in a different part of the playground to keep meeting more friends. Countless little goals. Daily role playing. Daily same and difference comparisons (I remember even being a little over the top at the grocery store one day. We were pointing out all the things that were same and different. "Hey Max! This store puts bananas in a different place than we've seen. Isn't that a great spot for them to go? And even though we had to find them a different way, it's still a banana!" Yeah. We did it all.). Lots of fun time with mom and the girls when he was home. Fun one on one time with me or Mike. Play dates with his new friends. Lots of stories from the scriptures of all those people full of courage and bravery. And lots of prayers. Lots.
But it all clicked. Little by little. One step at a time we were able to spread out those daily icee's to Fridays. Then they phased out. No more cheerleading to get him to go. Back to his usual morning jobs and routine before school.
And then, I found myself looking around one morning and we had evolved into our new normal.
Happy Max was confident, excited to go to school. Had friends to play with. Felt comfortable in his own skin.
Just as I can't really describe the challenge it is to watch your child go through the emotions of frustration, anxiety and loneliness, I can't really describe the fulfilling warmth in my heart to hear him say something like this:
Max: "Hey mom. I really like it here."
Me: "Oh yeah? How come?
Max: "You know, I really like my school. It's so cool. And fun." Pause. "Think I can go to that same school next year?"
Me: I chuckle at this question. Not the typical thought for a typical 6 year old. Most kids don't even think about that one. But, for Max, that is completely normal. He's been to a different school for every year so far. Preschools were in two different states (one in Utah, one in MN), then started off as a kindergartner in MN, and now he's doing first grade in Nebraska. So, I said,
"Buddy, that's a great question. And we're planning on it."
Max: The biggest grin around.
So fulfilling that I'm blessing him with this amazing perspective of change. How lucky he is to already understand change as a 6 year old - I love to hear him talk about memories we made in Utah or Minnesota, and with the same breath, talk about memories he's making right here in Omaha. How he's able to piece it all together, and recognize that while things are different, so many things are the same. And the things that are different are okay, and still work.
While I try to write how grateful I am for this experience, I still find it tough to put into words.
I think hitting those bottoms, those times where we just want to hide and keep ourselves from experiencing the discomfort of whatever it is that we are in, is tough. How we get out of those bottoms though - that is how we become who we are. I'm so grateful that we are in this journey together. I love that we are back in business, cruising along in comfortable. But more important than just being comfortable, I'm super grateful with how we got here.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Boycott
I went on a blog boycott for a bit, mainly out of necessity. Two big reasons:
1) we moved.
2) we moved with a super old computer. it's super oldness came out these last couple months.
Excited to share that I'm now typing on a computer that's no longer 10 years old. I feel like just by buying a snazzy new machine (as my mom calls them), I have decreased my age by at least 5 years. For anyone who thought we weren't hip around here, watch out.
And, as a somewhat brief glimpse into point 1): Moving is tough.
Here's a super quick recap. Pics will follow once I figure it all out.
In three short months, I feel like we've built confidence in our six year old like never before. He had a rough two first weeks of school (hiding in the shower so he wouldn't have to go!). Thanks to awesome people at his school, consistency, and a little time, by the end of the two weeks, he was back to his good ol' self. Today, he's a rock star. Confident, making more and more friends, loves his day to day routine, is having a blast on his soccer team (complete with scoring two goals in his last game), builds and draws like crazy and is currently trying to perfect his robot moves in his spare time. With this snazzy new thing I'll hopefully figure out how to get that video on here sooner rather than later.
Our three year old loved setting the example and was super brave on her first day in preschool. Loves dance and is happily making friends with everyone she can, especially our retired neighbors next door. Her mind has already memorized routes to and from our regular places.
The babe is growing so fast! Crawling, with two teeth, and working on some more. Still makes it clear that she likes things her own way, and doesn't hesitate to let us know if something isn't right. But, she's so happy, smiles at everyone around, and is such an amazing girl!
As for Mike and I, we are official residents in every way. Plates, drivers licenses, the whole shebang. Minus the huskers t-shirts. We still have to give that one time. But, grocery shopping is the best mid game.
Mike is cruising along in his new position. Super busy, but loves the new challenges. Did his first cross race of the season and pulled a 2nd place. Not bad for a guy who has missed a lot of riding time lately!
And, I'm doing great. Definitely had some ups and downs initially. Moments where I wondered what we were thinking?!? and then taking some time to just breathe a little. Amazing how with just a little more time, all of the newness and uncomfortableness seems to chip away, little by little. Then, before you know it, you're back in business, full steam ahead, like you'd never missed a beat. Hopefully I'll be able to recap and get a bit more specific with future posts.
A few things I've observed being here:
1-People are so, so kind. Never lived anywhere like it. Complete, genuine conversations with strangers all the time. Can't even count how many times someone has offered to just help when I'm out and about with the kids. From fixing Alexis' shoe that fell off, to helping carry something, to just taking the time to smile, it's awesome.
2-Very happy with the neighborhood and school. Wahoo!
1) we moved.
2) we moved with a super old computer. it's super oldness came out these last couple months.
Excited to share that I'm now typing on a computer that's no longer 10 years old. I feel like just by buying a snazzy new machine (as my mom calls them), I have decreased my age by at least 5 years. For anyone who thought we weren't hip around here, watch out.
And, as a somewhat brief glimpse into point 1): Moving is tough.
Here's a super quick recap. Pics will follow once I figure it all out.
In three short months, I feel like we've built confidence in our six year old like never before. He had a rough two first weeks of school (hiding in the shower so he wouldn't have to go!). Thanks to awesome people at his school, consistency, and a little time, by the end of the two weeks, he was back to his good ol' self. Today, he's a rock star. Confident, making more and more friends, loves his day to day routine, is having a blast on his soccer team (complete with scoring two goals in his last game), builds and draws like crazy and is currently trying to perfect his robot moves in his spare time. With this snazzy new thing I'll hopefully figure out how to get that video on here sooner rather than later.
Our three year old loved setting the example and was super brave on her first day in preschool. Loves dance and is happily making friends with everyone she can, especially our retired neighbors next door. Her mind has already memorized routes to and from our regular places.
The babe is growing so fast! Crawling, with two teeth, and working on some more. Still makes it clear that she likes things her own way, and doesn't hesitate to let us know if something isn't right. But, she's so happy, smiles at everyone around, and is such an amazing girl!
As for Mike and I, we are official residents in every way. Plates, drivers licenses, the whole shebang. Minus the huskers t-shirts. We still have to give that one time. But, grocery shopping is the best mid game.
Mike is cruising along in his new position. Super busy, but loves the new challenges. Did his first cross race of the season and pulled a 2nd place. Not bad for a guy who has missed a lot of riding time lately!
And, I'm doing great. Definitely had some ups and downs initially. Moments where I wondered what we were thinking?!? and then taking some time to just breathe a little. Amazing how with just a little more time, all of the newness and uncomfortableness seems to chip away, little by little. Then, before you know it, you're back in business, full steam ahead, like you'd never missed a beat. Hopefully I'll be able to recap and get a bit more specific with future posts.
A few things I've observed being here:
1-People are so, so kind. Never lived anywhere like it. Complete, genuine conversations with strangers all the time. Can't even count how many times someone has offered to just help when I'm out and about with the kids. From fixing Alexis' shoe that fell off, to helping carry something, to just taking the time to smile, it's awesome.
2-Very happy with the neighborhood and school. Wahoo!
Sunday, July 15, 2012
<<, II, >>
There have been times in life that I'd love to rewind and have a do over. Like the time I called a guy I taught in my cycle class Fred for three months. Would have been great, but his name was actually Bob. And after three months of being nice and patient about it, he casually mentioned one day after I said, "hey Fred, how was the weekend?" "Great. Got to see my grandkids. And, my name is actually Bob. Like boob but without one of the o's." Whoops! I can't tell you how many time's I've said the wrong name, his was the first that I definitely had it wrong for so long. Clearly, he thought this through enough to make sure I'd remember it correctly for the next year or so I kept teaching him. And, I guess he liked me (and class) enough that he kept coming!
Then there's times of life that I just want to pause. Freeze the instant and make it a whole day, or even a week. Most often those "pause" moments are just so short, but they edge such a clear memory. Sitting on the beach of Hawaii with Mike. Snuggling with that little newborn babe. How you feel when you finish that big goal. How you feel right after an awesome workout. We all have those times.
Sometimes, I hit a point of life that I really just want to fast forward. That would be describe how I've felt the last 5 months. Having a colicky baby, husband taking a new job, husband commuting back and forth to new job, selling and showing a house, buying a house in an area we've never lived in, then throwing in all of the normal things you do with three kids and a dog, then throw in a couple side jobs that I do for fun, and boom, it's like I couldn't get through it all quick enough.
But, we did it. We're in Omaha, in an awesome house, and super excited to enjoy this new adventure.
Now that we're in Omaha, and moving forward with a bit of breathing room, I have to remind myself that it really wasn't all just a fast forward time. First of all, I share a huge thanks to the folks who knew when to offer up yet another play date at their house, or to the cute teenage young women who jumped to help me out on short notice, or the awesome family who hung out with our two oldest so we could pick out the house I'm now sitting in.
And I have memories like the ones below that are just too good for me to ignore. Sometimes you think things will just go smoothly because you're juggling a lot. And sometimes it just doesn't happen, because when you juggle so much at once, things have a way of falling through the cracks, so you have to roll with whatever comes your way.
-During one house showing, I decided to take Kermit and the girls on a walk around a lake while Max was at school. Should take up the whole hour and be a great way to get out and enjoy Minnesota. Would have been awesome, but Kermit has been a bit neglected this past while, and hasn't been getting as many walks as he should. Or as the vet puts it, he should have a bit more of a waistline. About 3/4 the way through the walk, he just stopped. Started into a small seizure and seemed to be a bit overworked. Trying to figure out how I'd carry him, push Alexis in the stroller and keep Tayler from waking up in the bjorn was a lot to juggle. Thankfully, he snapped out of it, snagged some water, slept the rest of the day, and hasn't had another one since.
-I found the best way to find if a showing was a good one or not, was from the carpet tracks upstairs. Our main floor was hardwood, but the upstairs was carpet. You could tell super quick if a showing was from someone looking or someone looking just by the carpet tracks. I found it a bit entertaining, and left it freshly vacuumed before leaving every time (kept all the kids downstairs while I backtracked myself out), then was sure to make the first trip upstairs right when we got home. Kinda fun to see where they went as they looked.
-Then there's the day that we'd sold our home, but were asked to vacate for half a day so the new owners could do a home inspection. Sure, no problem. Only that my car died about a block from home. Again, while I was pulled over trying to feed the new baby, tackle Alexis who was so mad that since we couldn't drive anywhere, she'd miss her swimming lesson, and then figure out what I'd do with Kermit (again). Didn't really want to walk to the house mid appointment. Gratefully, Mike was in town that day and came home to help figure out the car. Which needed an oil change. Badly. Whoops.
-Our home in Omaha is actually a new house. Wahoo! And, we were able to pick out the finish work. I say we, but it was actually Mike. He did it all while he was in town, and would send up a small picture text to me with the text. "granite for kitchen. pick one of these." or "sample exterior paint color. pick one." Sounds simple enough, but it seems like every time we had to make a quick decision I was headed to the park with the kids, at a soccer game, or some other place where looking at a picture was like one more crazy thing added to the mix of energetic kids. In short, I didn't have too much input, and the place looks awesome.
-Soccer. Oh, soccer. Max was so excited to play. But from my perspective, taking three people to evening soccer twice a week (since Mike was working in Omaha) was not at the top of my fun list. Super thankful for the help from other soccer moms, my neighbor, the young women, gum, and a pink backpack. All of these helped at different times to manage Alexis, who was tired and ready for bed, or just not in the mood to hang out while her brother played. And while it would have been easier to bag it, I'm glad we did it. For Max. Who loved every minute. And figured out how to put on his own chin guards and socks so we'd get out of the door on time. Even if they were backwards, and I just had to redo it (making us late). oh well!
Then there's times of life that I just want to pause. Freeze the instant and make it a whole day, or even a week. Most often those "pause" moments are just so short, but they edge such a clear memory. Sitting on the beach of Hawaii with Mike. Snuggling with that little newborn babe. How you feel when you finish that big goal. How you feel right after an awesome workout. We all have those times.
Sometimes, I hit a point of life that I really just want to fast forward. That would be describe how I've felt the last 5 months. Having a colicky baby, husband taking a new job, husband commuting back and forth to new job, selling and showing a house, buying a house in an area we've never lived in, then throwing in all of the normal things you do with three kids and a dog, then throw in a couple side jobs that I do for fun, and boom, it's like I couldn't get through it all quick enough.
But, we did it. We're in Omaha, in an awesome house, and super excited to enjoy this new adventure.
Now that we're in Omaha, and moving forward with a bit of breathing room, I have to remind myself that it really wasn't all just a fast forward time. First of all, I share a huge thanks to the folks who knew when to offer up yet another play date at their house, or to the cute teenage young women who jumped to help me out on short notice, or the awesome family who hung out with our two oldest so we could pick out the house I'm now sitting in.
And I have memories like the ones below that are just too good for me to ignore. Sometimes you think things will just go smoothly because you're juggling a lot. And sometimes it just doesn't happen, because when you juggle so much at once, things have a way of falling through the cracks, so you have to roll with whatever comes your way.
-During one house showing, I decided to take Kermit and the girls on a walk around a lake while Max was at school. Should take up the whole hour and be a great way to get out and enjoy Minnesota. Would have been awesome, but Kermit has been a bit neglected this past while, and hasn't been getting as many walks as he should. Or as the vet puts it, he should have a bit more of a waistline. About 3/4 the way through the walk, he just stopped. Started into a small seizure and seemed to be a bit overworked. Trying to figure out how I'd carry him, push Alexis in the stroller and keep Tayler from waking up in the bjorn was a lot to juggle. Thankfully, he snapped out of it, snagged some water, slept the rest of the day, and hasn't had another one since.
-I found the best way to find if a showing was a good one or not, was from the carpet tracks upstairs. Our main floor was hardwood, but the upstairs was carpet. You could tell super quick if a showing was from someone looking or someone looking just by the carpet tracks. I found it a bit entertaining, and left it freshly vacuumed before leaving every time (kept all the kids downstairs while I backtracked myself out), then was sure to make the first trip upstairs right when we got home. Kinda fun to see where they went as they looked.
-Then there's the day that we'd sold our home, but were asked to vacate for half a day so the new owners could do a home inspection. Sure, no problem. Only that my car died about a block from home. Again, while I was pulled over trying to feed the new baby, tackle Alexis who was so mad that since we couldn't drive anywhere, she'd miss her swimming lesson, and then figure out what I'd do with Kermit (again). Didn't really want to walk to the house mid appointment. Gratefully, Mike was in town that day and came home to help figure out the car. Which needed an oil change. Badly. Whoops.
-Our home in Omaha is actually a new house. Wahoo! And, we were able to pick out the finish work. I say we, but it was actually Mike. He did it all while he was in town, and would send up a small picture text to me with the text. "granite for kitchen. pick one of these." or "sample exterior paint color. pick one." Sounds simple enough, but it seems like every time we had to make a quick decision I was headed to the park with the kids, at a soccer game, or some other place where looking at a picture was like one more crazy thing added to the mix of energetic kids. In short, I didn't have too much input, and the place looks awesome.
-Soccer. Oh, soccer. Max was so excited to play. But from my perspective, taking three people to evening soccer twice a week (since Mike was working in Omaha) was not at the top of my fun list. Super thankful for the help from other soccer moms, my neighbor, the young women, gum, and a pink backpack. All of these helped at different times to manage Alexis, who was tired and ready for bed, or just not in the mood to hang out while her brother played. And while it would have been easier to bag it, I'm glad we did it. For Max. Who loved every minute. And figured out how to put on his own chin guards and socks so we'd get out of the door on time. Even if they were backwards, and I just had to redo it (making us late). oh well!
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Quick Trip
My family came up for a quick weekend trip over Mothers Day. Main reason was for Tayler's baby blessing (which we did on Mothers Day!), but ended up being a huge help the whole weekend.
Mike, my dad, sister and brother took Max to his first Twins game. He was so excited. They arrived super early and Max caught one of the balls during warm up. Unfortunately, by the time the game was supposed to start a storm rolled in. After holding out as long as they could to see if the game delay would pick back up, they ended up heading home. Even though he never actually saw the game, Max was still pretty thrilled with the whole experience.
We were in the middle of open houses and showings, so we spent a lot of
time away from the house. But, when we were home, they pitched right in and
helped plant flowers, clean and held Tayler for me!
Took a trip to the zoo!
Tayler's blessing was beautiful. We were so grateful to have some of our extended family there for support. So grateful to have her in our lives, and look forward to making many memories. I expected her to just cry and fuss during the blessing, but to my surprise, she was awesome. Completely awake, wide eyed and happy. A few people commented that she was so wide eyed and happy during the whole blessing - as if she was listening to every word. Just like Alexis, she wore my shoes that I was blessed in! She wore the same dress as Alexis!
Papa and Bryce brought up a cool wood project. Per Max's request - a tank!
Came home from the day of church, and just as everyone was winding down, we had a phone call for another showing. 30 minutes to sweep everyone out and head over to a park for an hour or so. It was great weather, and super nice to have some extra hands to help with some of the showings!
Their last day, we had more showings scheduled, and our options were pretty limited with overall time and with where we could take Kermit. Took them out for one last park trip and lunch!
Mike, my dad, sister and brother took Max to his first Twins game. He was so excited. They arrived super early and Max caught one of the balls during warm up. Unfortunately, by the time the game was supposed to start a storm rolled in. After holding out as long as they could to see if the game delay would pick back up, they ended up heading home. Even though he never actually saw the game, Max was still pretty thrilled with the whole experience.
Papa and Bryce brought up a cool wood project. Per Max's request - a tank!
Saturday, May 26, 2012
A New Chapter
While it'd be safe to assume that I've held back from posting on the blog due to a little newborn colicky baby, it's actually just been one component of many moving parts these last couple of months. Mike has accepted a new position with his company in Omaha! Or, Homaha as Alexis calls it. Our new chapter has already started, with lots of travel back and forth for Mike, but we'll be calling Omaha home in about a month.
When I first heard the news of the opportunity, I cried. Because we LOVE Minnesota. Because we are comfortable here, and know what to expect. Because we thought we were going to be here longer. Because I remember how much work is involved when you move. And, because I was about to have a baby.
And, I guess that's when you have to take a step back and look at things a little differently. Funny enough, about the same time as experiencing this new change in direction, I happened to be reading a book about habits. Good or bad, we love them. Our brains look to create and find a habit so we don't have to think about every little thing that deals with something new.
Looking back, I remember the exhausting and overwhelming amount of work your brain goes through in a big move. From big things like trying to figure out where your new house should be - from the neighborhood, to the schools, to driving from place to place. To little things, like walking around in your new home in the dark, with your hand guessing where the light switch is, because that is no longer an automatic habit. And everything in between - your kids and building their friends, building your networks, the list goes on! Then being reminded of all the new habits involved with a new baby. From figuring out their place in the family as you try to balance everyone else in the home. Then trying to combine it all at once.
And, as things progressed with Mike's career opportunity, I was reminded of anther huge thing. Perspective. Seems like those who can offer vast perspective in life experiences have that ability because they've taken themselves away from the comfortable, and away from the habits that they know and love. They've stepped out of comfortable with the courage and faith that things while different, will continue to move forward. Not that they've all moved from place to place, but they've allowed things to enter into their life to change up the norm, tweek what would be a habit, and develop themselves (and others around them) into something more.
There's a quote that I love and use regularly in my fitness classes. "If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always got." (sorry don't know who the original credit that goes to!)
I'm super grateful that Mike is progressing with work and allowing us the opportunity to progress right along with him. Snuck this quote in his pocket as he was headed out the door for an interview that would either sink or swim the opportunity at hand (thanks Pinterest):
Big thanks to Mike for making this a "swimming" opportunity. Looking back, it is amazing to see how much growth we've experienced as individuals and as a family coming here. Dear friends in the neighborhood, through work and through church who we will miss. But looking forward, I'm excited for the adventure of it, for the chance we have to meet, grow, learn and understand more about ourselves and a new area. Plus, the shorter drive to Utah won't be so bad either.
How is the move process progressing? Super. Checking off things every day which gets us closer to finishing the transition phase and ready to jump into everything new.
And, as we continue to move forward, I think I'll be doing a bit of rewinding on this blog to offer my perspectives on a colicky baby, juggling three kids, getting back to feeling like "me" after a baby, photos of those cuties, and my thoughts on the whole move process. It's all stored away in the brain for now.
When I first heard the news of the opportunity, I cried. Because we LOVE Minnesota. Because we are comfortable here, and know what to expect. Because we thought we were going to be here longer. Because I remember how much work is involved when you move. And, because I was about to have a baby.
And, I guess that's when you have to take a step back and look at things a little differently. Funny enough, about the same time as experiencing this new change in direction, I happened to be reading a book about habits. Good or bad, we love them. Our brains look to create and find a habit so we don't have to think about every little thing that deals with something new.
Looking back, I remember the exhausting and overwhelming amount of work your brain goes through in a big move. From big things like trying to figure out where your new house should be - from the neighborhood, to the schools, to driving from place to place. To little things, like walking around in your new home in the dark, with your hand guessing where the light switch is, because that is no longer an automatic habit. And everything in between - your kids and building their friends, building your networks, the list goes on! Then being reminded of all the new habits involved with a new baby. From figuring out their place in the family as you try to balance everyone else in the home. Then trying to combine it all at once.
And, as things progressed with Mike's career opportunity, I was reminded of anther huge thing. Perspective. Seems like those who can offer vast perspective in life experiences have that ability because they've taken themselves away from the comfortable, and away from the habits that they know and love. They've stepped out of comfortable with the courage and faith that things while different, will continue to move forward. Not that they've all moved from place to place, but they've allowed things to enter into their life to change up the norm, tweek what would be a habit, and develop themselves (and others around them) into something more.
There's a quote that I love and use regularly in my fitness classes. "If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always got." (sorry don't know who the original credit that goes to!)
I'm super grateful that Mike is progressing with work and allowing us the opportunity to progress right along with him. Snuck this quote in his pocket as he was headed out the door for an interview that would either sink or swim the opportunity at hand (thanks Pinterest):
Big thanks to Mike for making this a "swimming" opportunity. Looking back, it is amazing to see how much growth we've experienced as individuals and as a family coming here. Dear friends in the neighborhood, through work and through church who we will miss. But looking forward, I'm excited for the adventure of it, for the chance we have to meet, grow, learn and understand more about ourselves and a new area. Plus, the shorter drive to Utah won't be so bad either.
How is the move process progressing? Super. Checking off things every day which gets us closer to finishing the transition phase and ready to jump into everything new.
And, as we continue to move forward, I think I'll be doing a bit of rewinding on this blog to offer my perspectives on a colicky baby, juggling three kids, getting back to feeling like "me" after a baby, photos of those cuties, and my thoughts on the whole move process. It's all stored away in the brain for now.
Monday, April 30, 2012
The Gap
Or, from a chronological standpoint, Easter #2.
Actual Easter came just after Mike's parents left, and the reality that Tayler was right back to the fussiness had set it. I'm a "just do it" kind of a gal, and wasn't feeling too great about pretty much anything. In fact, I was having a bad, negative kind of a day. All that kept running through my mind was that I'd fallen short in everything.
This was also the time that things were a definite go with Omaha. And, looking into the upcoming months, I was a bit bummed out. I knew the amount of work that was needed to make it all happen, and I wasn't feeling up for it. I just felt tired. TIRED.
And, here's where THE GAP came in. What was the gap? My husband, kids, and a huge feeling from our Savior, that I'm not in this alone. I just need to see things a little differently. Here's how it went:
THE NEGATIVE: Getting dressed, I realized that while I wanted to wear the handful of skirts in my closet, I was still stuck with 1. Because it was the only one that fit. Frustrated that I was still wearing the same one skirt again, I was grouchy.
THE GAP: Alexis danced into the room just after I got dressed and told me she had a secret. She then whispered "you're so pretty." It was me that needed a change, not the skirt, and the realization that really? is this really something to be so grouchy about?
THE NEGATIVE: In a rush of getting everyone out the door, I forgot any type of writing utensil for the kids. Who love to draw during church.
THE GAP: Rounded up a couple pens during the car ride, and Max with excitement said, "wow! a special pen day!"
THE NEGATIVE: Post church, I really wanted to have a good dinner for everyone. Meals had been such a thrown together-grab-whatever-is-quick-and-easy for so long, that I really wanted to put a little more into it. We went with steaks. But I didn't check that we actually had steaks until just before we were ready to grill them. And, we didn't have enough. So, we threw some hot dogs on the grill. I was so bugged.
THE GAP: Kids came to the table and Max said "wow! we have so many choices for dinner tonight! this is great!"
THE NEGATIVE: Feeling so alone at this new task of mom. Juggling three kids, unable to keep up with everything and all the moving pieces.
THE GAP: Sitting in church, and feeling the power of love, gratitude, appreciation, you name it. So strongly that it brought tears to my eyes. Reminded that I needed to focus on what matters most (or what matters at all!), and breath a little. Enjoy things for what they really are.
I personally think that when we have a big stress or a big change coming our way, that a natural coping mechanism is to turn every little thing into a stress or obstacle when it really doesn't need to be. I think it's hard when you are in it to see it all, but hugely obvious from an outsider, or from you when you look at things with a different perspective.
Can't say thanks enough to all those who helped me see that perspective differently. And got me back on track.
Actual Easter came just after Mike's parents left, and the reality that Tayler was right back to the fussiness had set it. I'm a "just do it" kind of a gal, and wasn't feeling too great about pretty much anything. In fact, I was having a bad, negative kind of a day. All that kept running through my mind was that I'd fallen short in everything.
This was also the time that things were a definite go with Omaha. And, looking into the upcoming months, I was a bit bummed out. I knew the amount of work that was needed to make it all happen, and I wasn't feeling up for it. I just felt tired. TIRED.
And, here's where THE GAP came in. What was the gap? My husband, kids, and a huge feeling from our Savior, that I'm not in this alone. I just need to see things a little differently. Here's how it went:
THE NEGATIVE: Getting dressed, I realized that while I wanted to wear the handful of skirts in my closet, I was still stuck with 1. Because it was the only one that fit. Frustrated that I was still wearing the same one skirt again, I was grouchy.
THE GAP: Alexis danced into the room just after I got dressed and told me she had a secret. She then whispered "you're so pretty." It was me that needed a change, not the skirt, and the realization that really? is this really something to be so grouchy about?
THE NEGATIVE: In a rush of getting everyone out the door, I forgot any type of writing utensil for the kids. Who love to draw during church.
THE GAP: Rounded up a couple pens during the car ride, and Max with excitement said, "wow! a special pen day!"
THE NEGATIVE: Post church, I really wanted to have a good dinner for everyone. Meals had been such a thrown together-grab-whatever-is-quick-and-easy for so long, that I really wanted to put a little more into it. We went with steaks. But I didn't check that we actually had steaks until just before we were ready to grill them. And, we didn't have enough. So, we threw some hot dogs on the grill. I was so bugged.
THE GAP: Kids came to the table and Max said "wow! we have so many choices for dinner tonight! this is great!"
THE NEGATIVE: Feeling so alone at this new task of mom. Juggling three kids, unable to keep up with everything and all the moving pieces.
THE GAP: Sitting in church, and feeling the power of love, gratitude, appreciation, you name it. So strongly that it brought tears to my eyes. Reminded that I needed to focus on what matters most (or what matters at all!), and breath a little. Enjoy things for what they really are.
I personally think that when we have a big stress or a big change coming our way, that a natural coping mechanism is to turn every little thing into a stress or obstacle when it really doesn't need to be. I think it's hard when you are in it to see it all, but hugely obvious from an outsider, or from you when you look at things with a different perspective.
Can't say thanks enough to all those who helped me see that perspective differently. And got me back on track.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Hero
I've felt a bit grouchy the last couple of days. Mainly because this babe is WAY too low to just sit around and hang out. And, because my doc, myself and everyone else around really thought I was going to go into labor over the weekend. Dilated to a 3, 65% effaced, a +1, with steady contractions, I had the bag packed and was good to go.
Nowhere. Because, babies just don't work to any prediction. And, while reading this, you might think, "jeez you still have a couple weeks left until your due date, why are you so set to go?" You have a point.
While I went early with both #1 and #2, I know that #3 really can and will come whenever she feels like it. But, mentally, I just feel like she should come early. She can't be comfortable sitting in my pelvis, because I know I'm not!
More than anything, I really just hate the unknowns.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a planner. A routine person. A scheduler. I can't help it but to drive myself and everyone around me into some type of a schedule. It's calming for me to know what is happening, when, and how to plan for it.
Which makes this whole limbo phase all the more difficult and frustrating. Will she come out? Yes. Will it work out just fine? I'm sure it will. But since I don't know the when, it doesn't make it any easier.
In my frustration, I decided to run through some photos of the past month and came across these. Sometimes we all need a hero. These two little ones remind me how simple and effortless things need to be. How the joy of things doesn't always come from the routine, but from the unknown. How the unexpected becomes the expected. And, how more than anything, a smile, some love and some faith are really what get us through to the next place. We don't know everything, and we won't have it all figured out, but allowing ourselves to be challenged and to progress really is what life is about.
I'll take their advice. Do some yoga breaths, possibly some superhero poses and embrace these final chunks of time until she decides to make her debut.
Nowhere. Because, babies just don't work to any prediction. And, while reading this, you might think, "jeez you still have a couple weeks left until your due date, why are you so set to go?" You have a point.
While I went early with both #1 and #2, I know that #3 really can and will come whenever she feels like it. But, mentally, I just feel like she should come early. She can't be comfortable sitting in my pelvis, because I know I'm not!
More than anything, I really just hate the unknowns.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a planner. A routine person. A scheduler. I can't help it but to drive myself and everyone around me into some type of a schedule. It's calming for me to know what is happening, when, and how to plan for it.
Which makes this whole limbo phase all the more difficult and frustrating. Will she come out? Yes. Will it work out just fine? I'm sure it will. But since I don't know the when, it doesn't make it any easier.
In my frustration, I decided to run through some photos of the past month and came across these. Sometimes we all need a hero. These two little ones remind me how simple and effortless things need to be. How the joy of things doesn't always come from the routine, but from the unknown. How the unexpected becomes the expected. And, how more than anything, a smile, some love and some faith are really what get us through to the next place. We don't know everything, and we won't have it all figured out, but allowing ourselves to be challenged and to progress really is what life is about.
I'll take their advice. Do some yoga breaths, possibly some superhero poses and embrace these final chunks of time until she decides to make her debut.
Friday, September 16, 2011
First Day of School
Just like that summer is over and school has started. And, just like that I have a little guy who's not-so-little anymore. Big enough to have a long list of needed school supplies. Big enough for heading off to school everyday. Big enough to make his own bed. And big enough to ride the bus.
I have to admit. I had some concerns about actually standing at the bus stop and letting him tackle the first day of heading to class solo. But then I felt lucky, since he's at the same bus stop with some classmates. So, as parents we gave them the best advice we could. "Just stick together and you'll be fine." Knowing that they had cute name tags didn't hurt either.
And, just like that, we were waiting back at the bus stop when all of them managed to get off.
Definitely hitting that point where I feel like he's at a crossroads. Big enough for so much, but still little enough for so much too. Little enough to still sit on my lap when he wants. Little enough to still need a stool to reach the faucet. Little enough to still love Curious George. Little enough to still think his parents are so cool and funny.
While the first day of kindergarten can make a parent have another one of those moments where they see every moment of their child flash by in an instant, no tears were shed by me. I'll just relish in the thrill of the present.
Like getting Alexis to stop crying. She managed to cry every morning for a solid week. Randomly breaking into tears "I want to go to kindergarten!" "I want to go with Max!" This guy is her world, and the thought of spending time solo just wasn't on her agenda. But after a week, she's started to realize the one-on-one time with mom isn't so bad either.
What does Max think of the whole heading to kindergarten? He comes home happy, energetic, and excited to go back. Details are scattered, information comes in snippets, but from what I gather, he's made some new friends, listens well, thinks the library inside school is awesome, and loves it when they get to play freeze tag at the gym.
The first pic I took makes me laugh. His eyes were in the direction of the street - he didn't want to miss the bus!
Snapped these of sis later that day. Clearly feeling more cheery after hanging out with mom!
I have to admit. I had some concerns about actually standing at the bus stop and letting him tackle the first day of heading to class solo. But then I felt lucky, since he's at the same bus stop with some classmates. So, as parents we gave them the best advice we could. "Just stick together and you'll be fine." Knowing that they had cute name tags didn't hurt either.
And, just like that, we were waiting back at the bus stop when all of them managed to get off.
Definitely hitting that point where I feel like he's at a crossroads. Big enough for so much, but still little enough for so much too. Little enough to still sit on my lap when he wants. Little enough to still need a stool to reach the faucet. Little enough to still love Curious George. Little enough to still think his parents are so cool and funny.
While the first day of kindergarten can make a parent have another one of those moments where they see every moment of their child flash by in an instant, no tears were shed by me. I'll just relish in the thrill of the present.
Like getting Alexis to stop crying. She managed to cry every morning for a solid week. Randomly breaking into tears "I want to go to kindergarten!" "I want to go with Max!" This guy is her world, and the thought of spending time solo just wasn't on her agenda. But after a week, she's started to realize the one-on-one time with mom isn't so bad either.
What does Max think of the whole heading to kindergarten? He comes home happy, energetic, and excited to go back. Details are scattered, information comes in snippets, but from what I gather, he's made some new friends, listens well, thinks the library inside school is awesome, and loves it when they get to play freeze tag at the gym.
The first pic I took makes me laugh. His eyes were in the direction of the street - he didn't want to miss the bus!
Snapped these of sis later that day. Clearly feeling more cheery after hanging out with mom!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Traditions
Building new traditions has been a big part of our first year in Minnesota. We've done new things, are still finding new things, and have tried to set up some fun traditions inside our home. It's still a work in progress, and I feel like it'll always be evolving.
With that, we try to build different types of traditions. Obviously ones built around holidays, but also small daily or family traditions, ones that build up the values we want to pass onto our kids, and ones that are built on things we are passionate about.
One of those is the tradition of fitness. We both have a passion, not only for the physical aspect, but how exercise can create such a balance in the rest of life. Not that we are experts in any way, shape or form, but we definitely have an appreciation for the sense of accomplishment that can come from doing something physically challenging.
With that, we try to build different types of traditions. Obviously ones built around holidays, but also small daily or family traditions, ones that build up the values we want to pass onto our kids, and ones that are built on things we are passionate about.
One of those is the tradition of fitness. We both have a passion, not only for the physical aspect, but how exercise can create such a balance in the rest of life. Not that we are experts in any way, shape or form, but we definitely have an appreciation for the sense of accomplishment that can come from doing something physically challenging.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Our Month
"Oh, man." I say again as I pull into the driveway to pick up my little people from a play date.
Alexis comes running, smiling and happy (as always). Looking at Max, I already know what has happened. Red faced, hands in pockets, bright red ears, runny nose and hiccupy breath. That's my boy every time I pick him up from pretty much anything these days. At this moment, I'm having more flashbacks to the time he was 2, turning 3, and his severe anxiety of wind. For details, there are snippets in this post and this post. But today's memory I flashed back to was actually never posted.
We were a good month into the fear-of-the-wind stage. It was June, 2009 and we were headed over to our neighborhood elders quorum BBQ that Mike was in charge of. He had arrived early to set up, so I showed up a bit later with the two little people. Mike was cooking and grilling for most of the night, and Max was happy running around with the kiddos. Until he realized there was food. Until a summer breeze shifted some of the napkins. Until he realized we could all potentially lose everything in sight to the wind. I still have vivid memories of him crawling underneath the park pavilion tables crying to all that would hear that everything was going to blow away. I still remember him clutching onto everything he could grasp in sight - not only his plate, cup, napkin and food, but everything else he could get to as well - purses, car seats, anyone's food, drinks, plates - he was trying to hold everything. He was so stressed out in fact, that my yoga-inspired techniques of deep breathing were completely ineffective. I still remember being so stressed and feeling so frustrated. Needless to say, we headed home early - probably a good thing, shortly after we'd left, the storm really picked up with actual winds and rain for the night. I still remember my sweet neighbor looking at me and just laughing (yes, Kathy), saying, "Sara, someday you will look back at this and just laugh and laugh." She was right. After about a month, Max got over it, and I now think back on that once stressful BBQ night and laugh.
Well, I've arrived at another one of those times where I have to keep reminding myself that someday I will look back at this and laugh. Except the month is coming and now going.
This time, he's developed a fear that I won't return. Not the typical separation anxiety that kids have right at the moment mom or dad leaves them. This one is delayed. Not a set amount of time, but at some point his mind registers that I have been gone for "awhile" and should be back by "now." And since I'm not back "now" then, the only conclusion is that I have left him forever, never to return. He then panics, cries (almost) to the point of throwing up (although I think we're getting pretty close to where he's actually going to make himself throw up), and asks the adult in charge (teacher, parent, whoever) to go get me as soon as possible.
Sometimes they can, and they do. Like at church, when Mike and I are in the middle of teaching our lessons at the same time. Or, a phone call, to come pick up my little man from a play date that he was supposed to be at for another 1/2 hour while I'm supposed to be catching up on errands.
But, sometimes, they really can't (or shouldn't). Like when he's in preschool with a class full of kids. Or when I'm in the middle of teaching a class at the gym.
And when those times come, I'm really grateful for their patience. Because I think they get it. They know, even though I have serious doubts, that he will figure this out. Get over it. Move on. And realize that, yes, I will come back to get him.
Here's where I insert the story of how I left him one time, or forgot to pick him up from something, or where he had this traumatic experience and thought he was stranded on the curbside, completely alone without food or water.
Oh, wait. There actually isn't one. For some reason his mind has created this very real anxiety that when I leave him (and once I've been gone for an extended period of time), that I really won't be back. Never. He will forever have to survive and live at his at school, at the gym, at church, or at his friends house (which, in some cases probably wouldn't be that bad!).
He's had this a little over a month. While I don't think I can say that I've tried everything, I can say we've tried A LOT. Mostly from recommendations from other moms who've had kids with separation anxiety of some sort. And, I have to admit. He has improved in some situations. Like during most of preschool - when his mind is constantly stimulated and busy, he's good. But then they switch to a few moments of free play and he starts to wonder. Thankfully, his teachers know this, and are able to step in and keep his mind busy on a different project while the other kids play. But anytime that he's in a situation of "free play" - a play date with another kid, spending time at the gym, a moment of down time anywhere, he's a goner.
So, I'm using this post as a vent. To write, read and laugh (a little) about everything I've tried thus far. Who knows, maybe someone will read this and have another idea. I'll try (just about) anything.
1. Cut out a heart and put it in his pocket. Did this one. Idea that "mom is always with you." Similar to the story The Kissing Hand (we tried the kisses on the hands, but thought a heart would be more tangible). When I picked him up from teaching a class, he pulled the heart out of his pocket and in tears said, "mom, the heart didn't work! It's just a piece of paper! It's not really you!" Right bud. Here's where you should use that vivid imagination you have.
2. Wear a watch. Write and show him at what time I'll be back. This one worked for the first 1/2 hour. Then, he decided that time was moving much too slowly. Panicked that his watch was broken and he would no longer be able to tell when I would be back. Sat and stared at watch for about 5 minutes. Convinced time was not working correctly had a full on panic that I was never to return.
3. Wear a sticker (similar to the heart). Whenever you see the sticker, remember that you're holding onto it for mom and she'll get it when she comes back. Yeah, right.
4. Ignore it. Yep. I've tried this one. Calm cool energy, no discussion prior or after to try to avoid the attention it is getting. Didn't work.
5. Deep breathing. Yep. I'd say he's a pro by now with the deep breathing process. But, since I'm not around when it all happens, he doesn't want to or remember to do it early enough.
6. When he's calm, have a discussion about why moms and dads pick up their kids. This was actually a great discussion. We had yet another conversation with his preschool teacher about what would happen if mom was a little late. What he and the other kids would do, and what all kids do. It actually went really well. Days later, he could even reference and talk about it as if he had complete understanding. All rational behavior and thoughts though are lost when this kicks in.
7. Stop and say a prayer when you start to feel sad or worried. Tried that one. Tough thing is that he usually doesn't remember until he's really upset, so then he can't calm down anyway.
8. Distraction. Thankfully, since this all happens while I'm not around, there are some really kind and patient people who really are trying their best to help Max out. All kinds of distraction techniques are used. Some work for a bit, some not at all. He's even had tours at the gym to see where all of the "hidden" toys are if he wants to play something different.
9. Practice time. We've done this a few different ways, but it's to help him understand what "10 more minutes" would feel like via setting a timer and then by seeing the time disappear. Kind of okay, except that he gets really fixated on it (similar to the watch), and then begins to worry when I'm not around.
10. Sing a song while I'm gone. He actually made up the song himself. "my mom always comes back, my mom always comes back, my mom always comes back, all day long." Song worked. But then forgot the lyrics and couldn't make up new ones. Since I'm talking about songs. He has a such tender heart. Last Sunday, he was actually doing really well. Finally! I thought to myself as we were approaching the last portion of church and I hadn't heard from his teacher. Until the primary started practicing the songs for Mothers Day. "Mother, I love you, mother I do" were the lyrics Max sang, as tears started to stream down his face, then thinking about how much he missed me. Tears turned into the red faced-upset little man so they came and got me. In the hallway, Max gave me a big hug. I asked him what happened and he said, "mom, we were singing about you, and I couldn't remember where you were and I started to get really sad just thinking about you, so I wanted to see you and give you a hug." Hug gladly accepted.
11. Reward (okay bribe). I gave him a set number of times for "good happy Max." If he did this for a certain number of times, he earned a trip to the dollar store. He did this perfect - twice. Then tried to negotiate that he should only be good if he could go to the dollar store after every single time. I'm wouldn't give in to his terms and the deal was off as quickly as it had been on. I didn't feel too terrible - I hate all of the Chinese plastic that seems to multiply and take over the house!
Next steps? I'm actually going back to the reward system. It's the only one that's shown some type of success. This time, he'll be filling a jar with rocks for "good behavior when he's away from mom." Once the jar is full, a one-on-one date with mom or dad, of his choice.
And time. Because sometimes that is just what it takes. We have a doc appt. set up relatively soon, so maybe that'll provide some extra information too.
And, I think it's becoming a bit of a habit for him. Now it's just about breaking the habit. Although I'd like to attribute it all to the fact that I really am that awesome and cool, I know it's not the case.
I'm actually amazed if anyone has read this long into the post. But, if you have and can actually offer thoughts, suggestions, comments, I'd love any. Don't be shy.
Alexis comes running, smiling and happy (as always). Looking at Max, I already know what has happened. Red faced, hands in pockets, bright red ears, runny nose and hiccupy breath. That's my boy every time I pick him up from pretty much anything these days. At this moment, I'm having more flashbacks to the time he was 2, turning 3, and his severe anxiety of wind. For details, there are snippets in this post and this post. But today's memory I flashed back to was actually never posted.
We were a good month into the fear-of-the-wind stage. It was June, 2009 and we were headed over to our neighborhood elders quorum BBQ that Mike was in charge of. He had arrived early to set up, so I showed up a bit later with the two little people. Mike was cooking and grilling for most of the night, and Max was happy running around with the kiddos. Until he realized there was food. Until a summer breeze shifted some of the napkins. Until he realized we could all potentially lose everything in sight to the wind. I still have vivid memories of him crawling underneath the park pavilion tables crying to all that would hear that everything was going to blow away. I still remember him clutching onto everything he could grasp in sight - not only his plate, cup, napkin and food, but everything else he could get to as well - purses, car seats, anyone's food, drinks, plates - he was trying to hold everything. He was so stressed out in fact, that my yoga-inspired techniques of deep breathing were completely ineffective. I still remember being so stressed and feeling so frustrated. Needless to say, we headed home early - probably a good thing, shortly after we'd left, the storm really picked up with actual winds and rain for the night. I still remember my sweet neighbor looking at me and just laughing (yes, Kathy), saying, "Sara, someday you will look back at this and just laugh and laugh." She was right. After about a month, Max got over it, and I now think back on that once stressful BBQ night and laugh.
Well, I've arrived at another one of those times where I have to keep reminding myself that someday I will look back at this and laugh. Except the month is coming and now going.
This time, he's developed a fear that I won't return. Not the typical separation anxiety that kids have right at the moment mom or dad leaves them. This one is delayed. Not a set amount of time, but at some point his mind registers that I have been gone for "awhile" and should be back by "now." And since I'm not back "now" then, the only conclusion is that I have left him forever, never to return. He then panics, cries (almost) to the point of throwing up (although I think we're getting pretty close to where he's actually going to make himself throw up), and asks the adult in charge (teacher, parent, whoever) to go get me as soon as possible.
Sometimes they can, and they do. Like at church, when Mike and I are in the middle of teaching our lessons at the same time. Or, a phone call, to come pick up my little man from a play date that he was supposed to be at for another 1/2 hour while I'm supposed to be catching up on errands.
But, sometimes, they really can't (or shouldn't). Like when he's in preschool with a class full of kids. Or when I'm in the middle of teaching a class at the gym.
And when those times come, I'm really grateful for their patience. Because I think they get it. They know, even though I have serious doubts, that he will figure this out. Get over it. Move on. And realize that, yes, I will come back to get him.
Here's where I insert the story of how I left him one time, or forgot to pick him up from something, or where he had this traumatic experience and thought he was stranded on the curbside, completely alone without food or water.
Oh, wait. There actually isn't one. For some reason his mind has created this very real anxiety that when I leave him (and once I've been gone for an extended period of time), that I really won't be back. Never. He will forever have to survive and live at his at school, at the gym, at church, or at his friends house (which, in some cases probably wouldn't be that bad!).
He's had this a little over a month. While I don't think I can say that I've tried everything, I can say we've tried A LOT. Mostly from recommendations from other moms who've had kids with separation anxiety of some sort. And, I have to admit. He has improved in some situations. Like during most of preschool - when his mind is constantly stimulated and busy, he's good. But then they switch to a few moments of free play and he starts to wonder. Thankfully, his teachers know this, and are able to step in and keep his mind busy on a different project while the other kids play. But anytime that he's in a situation of "free play" - a play date with another kid, spending time at the gym, a moment of down time anywhere, he's a goner.
So, I'm using this post as a vent. To write, read and laugh (a little) about everything I've tried thus far. Who knows, maybe someone will read this and have another idea. I'll try (just about) anything.
1. Cut out a heart and put it in his pocket. Did this one. Idea that "mom is always with you." Similar to the story The Kissing Hand (we tried the kisses on the hands, but thought a heart would be more tangible). When I picked him up from teaching a class, he pulled the heart out of his pocket and in tears said, "mom, the heart didn't work! It's just a piece of paper! It's not really you!" Right bud. Here's where you should use that vivid imagination you have.
2. Wear a watch. Write and show him at what time I'll be back. This one worked for the first 1/2 hour. Then, he decided that time was moving much too slowly. Panicked that his watch was broken and he would no longer be able to tell when I would be back. Sat and stared at watch for about 5 minutes. Convinced time was not working correctly had a full on panic that I was never to return.
3. Wear a sticker (similar to the heart). Whenever you see the sticker, remember that you're holding onto it for mom and she'll get it when she comes back. Yeah, right.
4. Ignore it. Yep. I've tried this one. Calm cool energy, no discussion prior or after to try to avoid the attention it is getting. Didn't work.
5. Deep breathing. Yep. I'd say he's a pro by now with the deep breathing process. But, since I'm not around when it all happens, he doesn't want to or remember to do it early enough.
6. When he's calm, have a discussion about why moms and dads pick up their kids. This was actually a great discussion. We had yet another conversation with his preschool teacher about what would happen if mom was a little late. What he and the other kids would do, and what all kids do. It actually went really well. Days later, he could even reference and talk about it as if he had complete understanding. All rational behavior and thoughts though are lost when this kicks in.
7. Stop and say a prayer when you start to feel sad or worried. Tried that one. Tough thing is that he usually doesn't remember until he's really upset, so then he can't calm down anyway.
8. Distraction. Thankfully, since this all happens while I'm not around, there are some really kind and patient people who really are trying their best to help Max out. All kinds of distraction techniques are used. Some work for a bit, some not at all. He's even had tours at the gym to see where all of the "hidden" toys are if he wants to play something different.
9. Practice time. We've done this a few different ways, but it's to help him understand what "10 more minutes" would feel like via setting a timer and then by seeing the time disappear. Kind of okay, except that he gets really fixated on it (similar to the watch), and then begins to worry when I'm not around.
10. Sing a song while I'm gone. He actually made up the song himself. "my mom always comes back, my mom always comes back, my mom always comes back, all day long." Song worked. But then forgot the lyrics and couldn't make up new ones. Since I'm talking about songs. He has a such tender heart. Last Sunday, he was actually doing really well. Finally! I thought to myself as we were approaching the last portion of church and I hadn't heard from his teacher. Until the primary started practicing the songs for Mothers Day. "Mother, I love you, mother I do" were the lyrics Max sang, as tears started to stream down his face, then thinking about how much he missed me. Tears turned into the red faced-upset little man so they came and got me. In the hallway, Max gave me a big hug. I asked him what happened and he said, "mom, we were singing about you, and I couldn't remember where you were and I started to get really sad just thinking about you, so I wanted to see you and give you a hug." Hug gladly accepted.
11. Reward (okay bribe). I gave him a set number of times for "good happy Max." If he did this for a certain number of times, he earned a trip to the dollar store. He did this perfect - twice. Then tried to negotiate that he should only be good if he could go to the dollar store after every single time. I'm wouldn't give in to his terms and the deal was off as quickly as it had been on. I didn't feel too terrible - I hate all of the Chinese plastic that seems to multiply and take over the house!
Next steps? I'm actually going back to the reward system. It's the only one that's shown some type of success. This time, he'll be filling a jar with rocks for "good behavior when he's away from mom." Once the jar is full, a one-on-one date with mom or dad, of his choice.
And time. Because sometimes that is just what it takes. We have a doc appt. set up relatively soon, so maybe that'll provide some extra information too.
And, I think it's becoming a bit of a habit for him. Now it's just about breaking the habit. Although I'd like to attribute it all to the fact that I really am that awesome and cool, I know it's not the case.
I'm actually amazed if anyone has read this long into the post. But, if you have and can actually offer thoughts, suggestions, comments, I'd love any. Don't be shy.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Minneapolis--My thoughts thus far
Well, we've been in the Twin Cities for just over a month now. I can't believe how fast the time has gone by! We are finally getting settled in our new place and it's finally starting to feel a little more like home. To be honest, this place is really starting to grow on me. I know, I know, I'll let you all know what I think when it's 20 below zero in the middle of January. But seriously, this place is actually pretty cool. We're very excited to have some family come out and visit us soon! While the kids absolutely love Skype and think it's the coolest thing ever, they still can't wait to see their nanas and papas in person. A lot has been going on lately, so I'll try to update everyone on a few of my observations thus far:
The new job is going quite well. I feel like I'm adjusting quickly to the new job duties. The people I work with are all pretty nice and have all gone out of their way to make sure that Sara and I feel at home and welcome! My boss is a super cool guy and really makes work fun.
Here I am with Chris Nelson, our facilty supply specialist. We make janitorial chemicals sexy, don't we?
I had the opportunity to visit our branch in Fargo last week. Not a bad little town. Bigger than I thought. No one speaking Fargo-ese with the obligatory "Oh ya, don't ya know". I was disappointed. Might not be a destination point come winter time, though.
The Weather
The weather here in the Upper Midwest is sort of trippy! I don't think I've ever seen anything quite like it. Just to give you an example, last Tuesday we had a huge thunderstorm roll through and drop 4 inches of rain at our house. As if that wasn't enough, Thursday night another storm stopped by and dropped an additional 3 inches of rain. Just to give you an idea on how much rain that is, Salt Lake city only receives 16.5 inches of rain in one year! On top of that, it seems like every week we are glued to the TV checking to see if a tornado warning is going to hit. We've already had a close call ( a tornado touched down 5 miles from our house). Sara's mom was here when the tornado siren went off! Hopefully she'll come back again. It scared her pretty good!
Check out this video of a tornado that hit western Minnesota last week. Amazing!
Tornado
When I first moved out here, I thought I spend most of my time lamenting the fact that I had moved away from one of the best cycling cities in the US. However, after my first month here, I'd have to say that the Twin Cities is quite the hot spot for cycling. The roads surrounding my neighborhood are quite possibly the best cycling roads I have ever rode on! There is a cool bike shop in my town (Erik's bike shop) that has regular group rides. I've made it out to the Monday and Thursday night rides pretty regularly lately (thanks Sara!) and I finally can feel my fitness starting to return! While the road biking is great, the mountain biking leaves a little to be desired. Nothing beats the trails of Park City or Draper. There are some pretty decent trails not far from my house, but I haven't had an opportunity to try them out. I'll try to get and give 'em a go here soon! There are bike paths everywhere! You seriously could go anywhere you want to go in the Twin Cities without ever having to set foot on a regular road. Amazing!
Here's the St. Paul Cathedral. It's huge! (insert Michael Scott quote here)
Down by the river (Mississippi) in St. Paul. Again, tons of bike trails.
This is the Gateway Trail. It is an 18 mile bike path that stretches from the Wisconsin border to downtown St. Paul. Very pretty!
Max and Alexis have actually adjust to things a lot quicker than I could have ever hoped! Max has already made a few new friends and regularly tells us that he "loves Minneapolis" and "likes this house better than our South Jordan house". Funny kid! We've really tried to do a lot as a family and we've actually been out to see a couple cool spots around town! There is so much to see here! Max always asks us when we are going to go see the "american mall" (Mall of America). I'm not dying to go there, to be honest.
Here are the kiddos at St. Croix Bluffs State Park not far from our house. Max loved looking for seashells!
Overall, things are great! We feel so blessed to have this opportunity to try out life in a new state for a while! I think everyone should give it a go if they ever have the opportunity!
Work
The new job is going quite well. I feel like I'm adjusting quickly to the new job duties. The people I work with are all pretty nice and have all gone out of their way to make sure that Sara and I feel at home and welcome! My boss is a super cool guy and really makes work fun.
Here I am with Chris Nelson, our facilty supply specialist. We make janitorial chemicals sexy, don't we?
I had the opportunity to visit our branch in Fargo last week. Not a bad little town. Bigger than I thought. No one speaking Fargo-ese with the obligatory "Oh ya, don't ya know". I was disappointed. Might not be a destination point come winter time, though.The Weather
The weather here in the Upper Midwest is sort of trippy! I don't think I've ever seen anything quite like it. Just to give you an example, last Tuesday we had a huge thunderstorm roll through and drop 4 inches of rain at our house. As if that wasn't enough, Thursday night another storm stopped by and dropped an additional 3 inches of rain. Just to give you an idea on how much rain that is, Salt Lake city only receives 16.5 inches of rain in one year! On top of that, it seems like every week we are glued to the TV checking to see if a tornado warning is going to hit. We've already had a close call ( a tornado touched down 5 miles from our house). Sara's mom was here when the tornado siren went off! Hopefully she'll come back again. It scared her pretty good!
Check out this video of a tornado that hit western Minnesota last week. Amazing!
Tornado
Cycling
When I first moved out here, I thought I spend most of my time lamenting the fact that I had moved away from one of the best cycling cities in the US. However, after my first month here, I'd have to say that the Twin Cities is quite the hot spot for cycling. The roads surrounding my neighborhood are quite possibly the best cycling roads I have ever rode on! There is a cool bike shop in my town (Erik's bike shop) that has regular group rides. I've made it out to the Monday and Thursday night rides pretty regularly lately (thanks Sara!) and I finally can feel my fitness starting to return! While the road biking is great, the mountain biking leaves a little to be desired. Nothing beats the trails of Park City or Draper. There are some pretty decent trails not far from my house, but I haven't had an opportunity to try them out. I'll try to get and give 'em a go here soon! There are bike paths everywhere! You seriously could go anywhere you want to go in the Twin Cities without ever having to set foot on a regular road. Amazing!
Here's the St. Paul Cathedral. It's huge! (insert Michael Scott quote here)Down by the river (Mississippi) in St. Paul. Again, tons of bike trails.This is the Gateway Trail. It is an 18 mile bike path that stretches from the Wisconsin border to downtown St. Paul. Very pretty!
The kids
Max and Alexis have actually adjust to things a lot quicker than I could have ever hoped! Max has already made a few new friends and regularly tells us that he "loves Minneapolis" and "likes this house better than our South Jordan house". Funny kid! We've really tried to do a lot as a family and we've actually been out to see a couple cool spots around town! There is so much to see here! Max always asks us when we are going to go see the "american mall" (Mall of America). I'm not dying to go there, to be honest.
Here are the kiddos at St. Croix Bluffs State Park not far from our house. Max loved looking for seashells!Overall, things are great! We feel so blessed to have this opportunity to try out life in a new state for a while! I think everyone should give it a go if they ever have the opportunity!
Saturday, August 7, 2010
We've taken a couple trips out to some of the lakes/river beaches and I wanted to post some photos from one of the trips. The kids love the mess of it and it's fun to see them so happy doing something so simple. And, some pics of them loving the outdoors.
Moving is tough, and it takes a lot of work! Our house is starting to feel more like a home as we are hanging more pics on the walls and getting more things put into place. There are still a lot of new things to figure out, but as with anything new, it'll just take time. We finally have skype up and running (what a cool thing!)!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
The first two weeks
I've been getting asked a lot from our neighbors and ward members how I've been adjusting to the change, and I figured our families would be wondering the same thing as well.
I absolutely love checking out the fun and new terrain. I feel like we haven't even scratched the surface on the number of things there are to do with kids out here, and we've had a great time with the places we've hit. Top of the list? Probably the Como Zoo in St. Paul. I love the size of it coupled with the quality of the exhibits. Best of all? It's free! Max would tell everyone about the roller coaster he went on. Next to the zoo they have a grouping of amusement rides catered to younger children with a pay as you go deal. He was pretty excited that he was tall enough to ride the roller coaster.
I've been impressed with how friendly the neighbors have been. Our backyard flows into a common area with grass and a park and it's been an awesome way to meet the neighbors. Everyone seems to congregate out there in the evenings and it's been great. People have stopped by and introduced themselves and have really welcomed us to the area. I think a large reason for this is because many of the people in our neighborhood are transplants as well, and can relate.
And, the transplant concept has carried into our ward as well. Mike and I were pleasantly surprised our first Sunday to see a great group of active members, in a great age mix, and some kiddos that were the same age as our kids. Again, people have been so kind to introduce themselves and invite us over, and really count on those around them for friendships and support systems.
The weather is BEAUTIFUL. My mom would probably tell otherwise, as one of the days she was up here, it was very hot and humid during the day which was followed with a severe thunderstorm complete with tornado touchdowns about 5 miles away (the tornado sirens actually went off while she was watching the kids for us while we were at a movie!). We've had some thunderstorms since then, usually in the evenings, and it's definitely a different type of storm than what you'd ever experience in Utah. But, for the bulk of the time, we've had 80s with mild humidity. I feel like we can be outside all day long and never get too hot.
The grocery shopping is tough. I still can't believe that they really can be laid out so differently from one another (and from ones in Utah). Frustrating that it takes me twice as long to do the process, but I also recognize that it's a learning curve and will get easier as time goes by.
Like with any move or big life change, it's tough to balance time for the tasks that need to get done to get everything set up and running and time for fun for the kiddos. I'm just trying to tackle one piece at a time and remember that it'll all get done (eventually).
LOVE having a GPS (thanks again mom and dad). I feel much more confident driving around knowing that when I get turned around I have a map that will help point the right direction again.
Fantastic restaurants. Okay, I've only eaten out twice - but both were great. I had my first taste of walleye and have since declared it my new favorite fish. Then we hit up a burger joint called The Nook (and yes, it really is tiny like a nook), with some of the best burgers.
And, the added bonus? MPLS airport is a great connection airport. Our good friends, Rob, Lorena & Michael (aka Biggie Smalls), were able to book an overnight layover on their way back to Sweden. It was so fun to get to spend some time with them. Max loves the concept of people sleeping over at our house and was so excited that he'd get to play with their cute baby.
And the kids? Have been great. The two weeks of limbo time and sleeping at different places threw Max for a loop, and he'd come looking for us every night. I love my little man and I love the cuddles, but anyone that knows Max knows that once he's awake, his mind is going, and he loved talking about anything and everything. After about a week and a half, I was just beat, and made this incentive chart for him to work towards. I thought it'd take him awhile, but he was quickly motivated and three days later (after sleeping in his bed), was thrilled with his new toy.
Most importantly, Max has really been a great example for me with meeting new people and making new friends. His ease of being in new environments and playing with new kids shows me how easy it really is to introduce yourself and meet those around you.
Alexis is a stud. I think she ran for her room and crib as fast as she could (I think both grandparents told me how at night she'd head off to a car and point to it like she was trying to go "home."). She got a little sick the first day here (I think from the long travel day we'd had before), and has cut some painful cuspids, but has been her usual happy little girl.
Here are some pics:
I absolutely love checking out the fun and new terrain. I feel like we haven't even scratched the surface on the number of things there are to do with kids out here, and we've had a great time with the places we've hit. Top of the list? Probably the Como Zoo in St. Paul. I love the size of it coupled with the quality of the exhibits. Best of all? It's free! Max would tell everyone about the roller coaster he went on. Next to the zoo they have a grouping of amusement rides catered to younger children with a pay as you go deal. He was pretty excited that he was tall enough to ride the roller coaster.
I've been impressed with how friendly the neighbors have been. Our backyard flows into a common area with grass and a park and it's been an awesome way to meet the neighbors. Everyone seems to congregate out there in the evenings and it's been great. People have stopped by and introduced themselves and have really welcomed us to the area. I think a large reason for this is because many of the people in our neighborhood are transplants as well, and can relate.
And, the transplant concept has carried into our ward as well. Mike and I were pleasantly surprised our first Sunday to see a great group of active members, in a great age mix, and some kiddos that were the same age as our kids. Again, people have been so kind to introduce themselves and invite us over, and really count on those around them for friendships and support systems.
The weather is BEAUTIFUL. My mom would probably tell otherwise, as one of the days she was up here, it was very hot and humid during the day which was followed with a severe thunderstorm complete with tornado touchdowns about 5 miles away (the tornado sirens actually went off while she was watching the kids for us while we were at a movie!). We've had some thunderstorms since then, usually in the evenings, and it's definitely a different type of storm than what you'd ever experience in Utah. But, for the bulk of the time, we've had 80s with mild humidity. I feel like we can be outside all day long and never get too hot.
The grocery shopping is tough. I still can't believe that they really can be laid out so differently from one another (and from ones in Utah). Frustrating that it takes me twice as long to do the process, but I also recognize that it's a learning curve and will get easier as time goes by.
Like with any move or big life change, it's tough to balance time for the tasks that need to get done to get everything set up and running and time for fun for the kiddos. I'm just trying to tackle one piece at a time and remember that it'll all get done (eventually).
LOVE having a GPS (thanks again mom and dad). I feel much more confident driving around knowing that when I get turned around I have a map that will help point the right direction again.
Fantastic restaurants. Okay, I've only eaten out twice - but both were great. I had my first taste of walleye and have since declared it my new favorite fish. Then we hit up a burger joint called The Nook (and yes, it really is tiny like a nook), with some of the best burgers.
And, the added bonus? MPLS airport is a great connection airport. Our good friends, Rob, Lorena & Michael (aka Biggie Smalls), were able to book an overnight layover on their way back to Sweden. It was so fun to get to spend some time with them. Max loves the concept of people sleeping over at our house and was so excited that he'd get to play with their cute baby.
And the kids? Have been great. The two weeks of limbo time and sleeping at different places threw Max for a loop, and he'd come looking for us every night. I love my little man and I love the cuddles, but anyone that knows Max knows that once he's awake, his mind is going, and he loved talking about anything and everything. After about a week and a half, I was just beat, and made this incentive chart for him to work towards. I thought it'd take him awhile, but he was quickly motivated and three days later (after sleeping in his bed), was thrilled with his new toy.
Most importantly, Max has really been a great example for me with meeting new people and making new friends. His ease of being in new environments and playing with new kids shows me how easy it really is to introduce yourself and meet those around you.
Alexis is a stud. I think she ran for her room and crib as fast as she could (I think both grandparents told me how at night she'd head off to a car and point to it like she was trying to go "home."). She got a little sick the first day here (I think from the long travel day we'd had before), and has cut some painful cuspids, but has been her usual happy little girl.
Here are some pics:
The flight
Before diving into Minnesota life, I'd like to say a big thanks to both sets of parents who took turns watching the kids while we drove and unpacked a little prior to the chaos. And, a big thanks to everyone who got together with us before leaving - the visits, calls and parties made us feel so loved and grateful for friendships.
Post car ride and move in to the house, I flew back to Utah for a quick trip to pick up the kids and fly back with my mom and the kids to our new home. I was excited to see them and everyone else, and excited to get them up to Minnesota to get the new chapter started.
I had this strong feeling of anxiety and anticipation for the flight with the kids. Part of me knew I had nerves about managing the two of them, but since my mom was coming with me, I knew that wasn't all of it. I couldn't shake it, but had a continued strong feeling that I really needed to carry on more than I initially thought.
After smooth sailing through security, we headed to the gate where we found our flight to Denver was delayed about an hour. Ok, I thought, this must have been it, I needed the extra stuff for the kids since our layover will be quick, but we'll still make it to Minneapolis.
We boarded the plane, took off, and were enjoying the experience of Max's first time flying. About halfway to Denver, the pilot came on and announced we'd return back to SLC due to mechanical failure. He also mentioned we'd fly at low altitudes the remainder of the trip, but not to worry, we would not crash into anything (but would be clearly seeing the tree tops in Park City). Through the bumps on the flight, Max turned to me and said, "mom, this is just like Lagoon!"
Everyone was taken off the plane. No information available, no new plane to board, and we were on our own to figure it out.
Thankfully my mom was there. She was able to take the kiddos to one of the indoor playgrounds where they could wiggle and scream to their hearts content, while I worked in the lines and phones to try to catch another flight. Describing the experience as frustrating would be a complete understatement. I've never been told to run around in so many circles before. Without giving a line by line, after a ridiculous amount of time spent on hold and waiting, we were able to catch a direct flight that night.
Oh, so that's why I needed all the extras. Plenty of books, diapers, movie for Max, so that we could hang out in the SLC airport all day (doesn't everyone arrive at 11:30a.m. for a 7:45p.m. flight?).
What's important is we made it, and I'm grateful I listened to the prompting to travel extra prepared. An expected arrival of 6:00p.m. turned into an 11:30p.m. And, while neither kid crashed on route, I'm happy to say they were champs.
Post car ride and move in to the house, I flew back to Utah for a quick trip to pick up the kids and fly back with my mom and the kids to our new home. I was excited to see them and everyone else, and excited to get them up to Minnesota to get the new chapter started.
I had this strong feeling of anxiety and anticipation for the flight with the kids. Part of me knew I had nerves about managing the two of them, but since my mom was coming with me, I knew that wasn't all of it. I couldn't shake it, but had a continued strong feeling that I really needed to carry on more than I initially thought.
After smooth sailing through security, we headed to the gate where we found our flight to Denver was delayed about an hour. Ok, I thought, this must have been it, I needed the extra stuff for the kids since our layover will be quick, but we'll still make it to Minneapolis.
We boarded the plane, took off, and were enjoying the experience of Max's first time flying. About halfway to Denver, the pilot came on and announced we'd return back to SLC due to mechanical failure. He also mentioned we'd fly at low altitudes the remainder of the trip, but not to worry, we would not crash into anything (but would be clearly seeing the tree tops in Park City). Through the bumps on the flight, Max turned to me and said, "mom, this is just like Lagoon!"
Everyone was taken off the plane. No information available, no new plane to board, and we were on our own to figure it out.
Thankfully my mom was there. She was able to take the kiddos to one of the indoor playgrounds where they could wiggle and scream to their hearts content, while I worked in the lines and phones to try to catch another flight. Describing the experience as frustrating would be a complete understatement. I've never been told to run around in so many circles before. Without giving a line by line, after a ridiculous amount of time spent on hold and waiting, we were able to catch a direct flight that night.
Oh, so that's why I needed all the extras. Plenty of books, diapers, movie for Max, so that we could hang out in the SLC airport all day (doesn't everyone arrive at 11:30a.m. for a 7:45p.m. flight?).
What's important is we made it, and I'm grateful I listened to the prompting to travel extra prepared. An expected arrival of 6:00p.m. turned into an 11:30p.m. And, while neither kid crashed on route, I'm happy to say they were champs.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Hello Minnesota!
I'm currently sitting in our hotel room looking out the window at a very different sunset from the one I saw Saturday night on Eaglewood golf course. Different in the landscape that surrounds it, but just as beautiful in the same kind of way.
The car trip was a success - Kermit managed to enjoy sleeping for the better part of the trip, and I learned for myself why everyone says Nebraska seems to go on forever.
Our first 12.5 hours landed us in Lincoln, NE where it's never felt more muggy or hot. At 9:30 at night, I was flooded with memories of my time spent in Korea, complete with the sound of the cicada buzzing in the trees near our hotel. And, at 7:00a.m. the next morning, I thought Kermit was going to pass out as he tried to breathe through the thick and humid air.
The next chunk of driving took us through Iowa and up to Minnesota. Thanks to our GPS, we were able to stop for lunch in the small town of Williams and eat fresh cooked hamburgers from a little drugstore/ice cream parlor called Cheaper By the Dozen. It was such a treat to see a glimpse of small town USA, and to sit on the corner of a main street that, other than asphalt, sidewalks, and a telephone poll, hasn't changed much since 1901.
Minnesota welcomed us with ominous clouds, a burst of a rainstorm, and a quick reminder that we are a long ways from desert country. And, just like the flip of the switch, we woke up to a nice sunny morning, and even more beautiful day.
A great day to once again become homeowners! We feel so grateful for the ease we've had in both the home selling and home buying process, and are excited about the new neighborhood and new adventures that the area will bring.
Tomorrow the moving truck arrives, and the fun begins. I know Max will be looking forward to empty boxes ready to become the new human tunnel in our basement.
Speaking of the kettles*, they are having a blast of a vacation with the grandparents. We are so thankful for their willingness to play with them while we drove and sorted through the home transition. I can only imagine how different the car trip and move in would have been with the little people. Max has already cheered a loud "whoo hoo!" over the phone after hearing about his new room and the nearby park.
The journey continues! And, as we are now calling the land of 10,000 lakes our new home, I am keeping my commitment to post more regularly!!
*kettles - Max's pronunciation of "kiddos"
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