I don't know what it is about a bedtime story that just completes the day. Sometimes they are the mud on the clean carpets that make you call in Dad for reinforcements while other times they become the cherry that tops off the perfect day.
While I have always wanted to read to my kids, only puppy ever really let me. Then recently, everyone but Tiger got in on the action. He was usually not too far off but not acting interested either. Rhino still prefers the titles that suit his own interests but is happy to sit through just about anything, provided it's not boring for too long because he gets bored of being bored all of the time. Monkey will only sit through the story if she's sitting on my lap, and since no one else protested, I let her get away with snuggling me.
Each child gets to take turns choosing the books and we get new ones every month (from the thrift store of course)to keep our supply exciting (for me- they could read the same ones over and over again). I have become extremely talented at speaking while being interrupted, answering questions and continuing on without skipping a beat and while my British accent still needs some work I have the Dr. Seuss characters all very distinguished.
What started as a chance to read all of the books we'd collected over the years has turned into so much more. It is our special time to all sit together and the kids have mom's undivided attention and I, for the most part, have theirs. Reviewing basic story lines has turned into what happened that day- the joys, the fears and the little things that I probably would never get to hear about. Rhino comes out of nowhere with things he remembers and has been thinking about all day. He always requests the "special song" because it helps him have the best dreams. Two nights ago, I was tired and almost gave up the special time when Tiger brought me a book and said, "bedtime story?" He was participating the whole time- I just never knew it. Puppy thrives on being able to sleep with the book after we've read it, provided she beats Monkey to it and Monkey just likes emptying all of the books from the trunk.. and my shelves. In fact, tonight monkey chose the book- she insisted and when I tried to persuade her, using all-time favorites, she insisted that we read an excerpt from Charles Dickens' Christmas Carol... what can I say, she appreciates the classics.
A story, a special song.. or two...or ten and then a kiss goodnight. I blow each of them a kiss and then they all blow me a kiss which blows me right out of the room (otherwise I'd probably never leave). I love to watch them learn and grow and bedtime is one of those quiet moments when we not only watch but participate in their thoughts and feelings. I am grateful for the times to be still and marvel at what miracles I have been blessed to share my life with... and let's face it- wild animals are so much easier to love and appreciate when they're sleeping.
"My sweet surprise, this is your lullaby
so put all your cares away-
you were given to me and I hope you believe
That I'll always be here for you...
Some days you'll laugh, and some days you'll cry
but remember your life's full of joy.
Take my hand, I will guide- and one day step aside
to watch you walk on your own
But wherever you are- you are never too far
for you'll always be in my heart-
My sweet surprise, this is your lullaby
so put all your cares away-
Rest your head, go to sleep- and your dreams I'll keep
Because I'll always be here for you!
My sweet surprise, this is your lullaby..."
1.23.2011
1.18.2011
If you Give a Monkey a Penny
I was at the computer trying to get things wrapped up for the day when Monkey came a calling. Fussing about something (probably upset that puppy didn't let her pull her hair)I offered for her to sit on my lap while I finished.
The bonding moment lasted for about a minute when Monkey lost interest and slid her way to the ground. A cave is always more exciting so I didn't think much of her climbing under my feet to get to the desk's indent. Rolling around and singing her own wonderful songs I was content to let her be content so I could get done and then give her my full attention.
All was well until there was a "DUNG" sound accompanied with a "SPARK". The computer screen was black, all equipment turned off and Monkey ran off screaming. I've come to learn the difference between the pain screaming and the oh no, don't put me in time out screaming- this was definitely the latter. I did a basic check, she probably pulled the plug (as she tends to do) so I tried pushing some things in. Still not working, I turned to Mr. Zookeeper (I know nothing- he knows everything).
He began his thorough exam but pulled out the end to replug it in. Ah! A scorched outlet. It appears that monkey found a penny while under the desk and with no piggy bank to save it in, thought she'd use the outlet instead. Burned up the penny, plug, protective plate, outlet and breaker to the living room.
Because things like this just happen around here, I got out my camera to take pictures and Mr. Zookeeper went and got his supply of replacement parts. At this point Monkey is still going on with her on and off cry but then, what's this? A flashlight? She was suddenly better and serving as Dad's right hand making sure no tools were used unless she had handled them first.
So we've read cute stories about what happens If You Give a Mouse a Cookie or If You Give a Pig a Party and this is our not so cute story of what happens If You Give a Monkey a Penny... or just happen to accidentally have one in your house.
Because I have the best husband in the world, and the perfect father for these wild animals, Mr. Zookeeper had the lights back on and my computer running in less than fifteen minutes.
Problem solved and life resumed as it always manages to do.
Then we saw Monkey with a nickel... "STOP HER!"...
The bonding moment lasted for about a minute when Monkey lost interest and slid her way to the ground. A cave is always more exciting so I didn't think much of her climbing under my feet to get to the desk's indent. Rolling around and singing her own wonderful songs I was content to let her be content so I could get done and then give her my full attention.
All was well until there was a "DUNG" sound accompanied with a "SPARK". The computer screen was black, all equipment turned off and Monkey ran off screaming. I've come to learn the difference between the pain screaming and the oh no, don't put me in time out screaming- this was definitely the latter. I did a basic check, she probably pulled the plug (as she tends to do) so I tried pushing some things in. Still not working, I turned to Mr. Zookeeper (I know nothing- he knows everything).
He began his thorough exam but pulled out the end to replug it in. Ah! A scorched outlet. It appears that monkey found a penny while under the desk and with no piggy bank to save it in, thought she'd use the outlet instead. Burned up the penny, plug, protective plate, outlet and breaker to the living room.
Because things like this just happen around here, I got out my camera to take pictures and Mr. Zookeeper went and got his supply of replacement parts. At this point Monkey is still going on with her on and off cry but then, what's this? A flashlight? She was suddenly better and serving as Dad's right hand making sure no tools were used unless she had handled them first.
So we've read cute stories about what happens If You Give a Mouse a Cookie or If You Give a Pig a Party and this is our not so cute story of what happens If You Give a Monkey a Penny... or just happen to accidentally have one in your house.
Because I have the best husband in the world, and the perfect father for these wild animals, Mr. Zookeeper had the lights back on and my computer running in less than fifteen minutes.
Problem solved and life resumed as it always manages to do.
Then we saw Monkey with a nickel... "STOP HER!"...
1.10.2011
Everyone has a Song
"Birdsong is familiar to everyone and has been a source of inspiration for centuries, of course, but most of us are surprised to learn that other animals also sing -- and not just humpback whales. Various species of mammals, amphibians, insects and even fish are now known to produce idiosyncratic songs." (http://ezinearticles.com/?Do-Animals-Sing?&id=1349748)
Some animals sing for pleasure, some for mating rituals (which could also result in pleasure), some sing as a warning, a call or just to annoy you early in the morning or late at night. Regardless of why they do- many animals have their own distinct song and sing it loud for all to hear.
I am a soprano, a very limited soprano that is a professional "extra" in choirs and ensembles. My mother is an alto and while I try to sing with her, I always feel more comfortable in my own range. My father on the other hand sings bass and no matter how hard I try to reach those awesome low notes- I just cannot do it- my voice was not made for it- I was not made for it. So, while I love to hear the booming male's voice it would be a waste of time for me to try and achieve those results. I can work on singing more with my mom and expand my range and tuning but I can also take what I am good at and excel. I can learn and practice and become the best soprano that I can be (even if it means always being back up). I can find ways to succeed on my own and add to something wonderful when all of the parts are put together.
I believe that every child has their own voice and it is our job as parents to help them find the perfect song for them sing.
Animals learn for survival. We learn to become more than what we are- to learn all that we can and to become superior beings.I believe that while we all have to learn and grow that does not mean that we all need to learn and grow the same way. If each of us is so different then why are we constantly compared? We do not go whale watching to hear the song of a mockingbird so why are we so surprised when our puppies and monkeys sing differently? I have four children and each one of them brings their own talents, strengths and ideas to the table, floors and walls for that matter.
I can't decide which is harder- the older child who refuses to potty train, finds a perfect piece of carpet and just unloads or the younger child who insists on potty training but isn't any good at it yet; removes the diaper (doesn't tell mom) puts on underwear and decides to let the family know she's decided to grow up when she soils all over your lap in a restaurant. I have potty trained three and about to be four (ready or not) kids and each one did it so differently. I tried to do the second the same as the first- after all, I did it once so I must have been a pro but believe me- you cannot potty train a tiger the same way you train a rhino!
There are so many books and opinions that tell us how to do things but quite frankly- none of those have ever worked for me. The only help I could give to the world is how not to raise your children. I'm learning to never underestimate their abilities- encourage them to reach for the stars and become their step stool until they can touch them on their own. Don't compare your kids to each other or anyone else and teach them to do the same. Never leave a bowl of water sitting on the floor- it only leads to disaster and we should be very careful how we try to mold our little ones- we are not perfect ourselves so the biggest thing we can teach them is how to learn.
Because I always have more than enough to say I really could go on forever (and just might someday) but what I really want to express is that there are thousands, millions of songs and they were all written in different ways and some even have hundreds of versions (insert any Christmas song here). I don't know every song, some I don't understand, some lack the beat I need to get my groove on and some just downright frighten me (usually the ones that involve strobe lighting and lots of big jewelry) but each is a masterpiece to their creator. I remember a time I was asked to sing a solo, not hard to remember since it was the only time, but when I rehearsed I felt so uncomfortable that I just cried. My sweet accompanist who was also a musical genius changed the key around to make it possible for me to sing. Once I was confident in my abilities, she made a few more changes and we did this until the song was clearly recognizable but written just for me. Empowered with confidence I sang my little heart out and had a great time doing it. Sometimes a little change in how we do things makes the difference between failure and success.
We are indeed here to learn and we must jump off a few cliffs to see how far we can fly but you would never push a lion over a cliff and expect him to spread his wings. Instead you would boast of his strengths and acknowledge him for the king that he is- on the ground.
Some songs are heard loudly and often while others are soft and discreet- making it almost a secret privilege to be able to hear but everyone has the ability to sing and everyone has a song full of purpose and strength.
Each of my animals has their own voice and their own song. When they're all singing together it gets a little crazy but when they find their strengths and sing with confidence- they move mountains.
Thank you kiddos for helping me find my own voice and always know that you are the music of my heart.
Some animals sing for pleasure, some for mating rituals (which could also result in pleasure), some sing as a warning, a call or just to annoy you early in the morning or late at night. Regardless of why they do- many animals have their own distinct song and sing it loud for all to hear.
I am a soprano, a very limited soprano that is a professional "extra" in choirs and ensembles. My mother is an alto and while I try to sing with her, I always feel more comfortable in my own range. My father on the other hand sings bass and no matter how hard I try to reach those awesome low notes- I just cannot do it- my voice was not made for it- I was not made for it. So, while I love to hear the booming male's voice it would be a waste of time for me to try and achieve those results. I can work on singing more with my mom and expand my range and tuning but I can also take what I am good at and excel. I can learn and practice and become the best soprano that I can be (even if it means always being back up). I can find ways to succeed on my own and add to something wonderful when all of the parts are put together.
I believe that every child has their own voice and it is our job as parents to help them find the perfect song for them sing.
Animals learn for survival. We learn to become more than what we are- to learn all that we can and to become superior beings.I believe that while we all have to learn and grow that does not mean that we all need to learn and grow the same way. If each of us is so different then why are we constantly compared? We do not go whale watching to hear the song of a mockingbird so why are we so surprised when our puppies and monkeys sing differently? I have four children and each one of them brings their own talents, strengths and ideas to the table, floors and walls for that matter.
I can't decide which is harder- the older child who refuses to potty train, finds a perfect piece of carpet and just unloads or the younger child who insists on potty training but isn't any good at it yet; removes the diaper (doesn't tell mom) puts on underwear and decides to let the family know she's decided to grow up when she soils all over your lap in a restaurant. I have potty trained three and about to be four (ready or not) kids and each one did it so differently. I tried to do the second the same as the first- after all, I did it once so I must have been a pro but believe me- you cannot potty train a tiger the same way you train a rhino!
There are so many books and opinions that tell us how to do things but quite frankly- none of those have ever worked for me. The only help I could give to the world is how not to raise your children. I'm learning to never underestimate their abilities- encourage them to reach for the stars and become their step stool until they can touch them on their own. Don't compare your kids to each other or anyone else and teach them to do the same. Never leave a bowl of water sitting on the floor- it only leads to disaster and we should be very careful how we try to mold our little ones- we are not perfect ourselves so the biggest thing we can teach them is how to learn.
Because I always have more than enough to say I really could go on forever (and just might someday) but what I really want to express is that there are thousands, millions of songs and they were all written in different ways and some even have hundreds of versions (insert any Christmas song here). I don't know every song, some I don't understand, some lack the beat I need to get my groove on and some just downright frighten me (usually the ones that involve strobe lighting and lots of big jewelry) but each is a masterpiece to their creator. I remember a time I was asked to sing a solo, not hard to remember since it was the only time, but when I rehearsed I felt so uncomfortable that I just cried. My sweet accompanist who was also a musical genius changed the key around to make it possible for me to sing. Once I was confident in my abilities, she made a few more changes and we did this until the song was clearly recognizable but written just for me. Empowered with confidence I sang my little heart out and had a great time doing it. Sometimes a little change in how we do things makes the difference between failure and success.
We are indeed here to learn and we must jump off a few cliffs to see how far we can fly but you would never push a lion over a cliff and expect him to spread his wings. Instead you would boast of his strengths and acknowledge him for the king that he is- on the ground.
Some songs are heard loudly and often while others are soft and discreet- making it almost a secret privilege to be able to hear but everyone has the ability to sing and everyone has a song full of purpose and strength.
Each of my animals has their own voice and their own song. When they're all singing together it gets a little crazy but when they find their strengths and sing with confidence- they move mountains.
Thank you kiddos for helping me find my own voice and always know that you are the music of my heart.
1.05.2011
GRRRRReaT BIrThdAy TigER!
I was so excited to see you but you were much more excited to see me- you just couldn't wait to get here! Four months into pregnancy I began what would become a lifetime of watching out for you. I couldn't see your face but I quickly learned your personality and you were running, jumping and screaming long before you were born. You caused so many reasons for alarm that we all watched you very closely.
Fitting to your personality, you decided to get me up in the middle of the night to check on you. Of course you let me know you were ready by creating a puddle of water all over the floor (I should have seen the signs then and bought a house with no tubs or faucets but alas we all live and learn). We arrived at the hospital bright and really early and all was well. I was dilated to an eight without any numbing and when asked if I could feel the contractions I simply replied, "yes, but they are nothing compared to how I'd been feeling for the last six months!" You decided to find a nice cushy spot on one of my nerves and made it so I couldn't walk without crutches and eventually ended up in a wheelchair... we now joke that you were giving me one last chance to sit down and wanted me to enjoy it while I could.
I accepted the epidural and before it could kick in you decided to make a stir. One minute I was laying there eating ice chips and then monitors starting going off, doctors and nurses starting rushing everywhere- your dad was pushed out of the way and I was flipped over onto my stomach and rushed out of the room. The only words I heard, "we lost the baby" struck my core and I began to cry but before the first tear could fall I had a calm come over me and I knew that no matter what happened to you or me- we were both going to be OK. The doctor told me we were doing an emergency c-section and there was no time to numb me, I panicked with fear and pleaded with the doctor that I didn't want to feel anything. He assured me he would do the best he could and immediately started bringing you into this world. I experienced pain that I'd never felt before, but once I knew you were OK, nothing else seemed to matter and I was blessed by a higher power to be removed from the experience. Doctors rushed to our care and with the help of superior knowledge, modern medicine, technology and the love of our Heavenly Father- both of our lives were spared.
You had a few issues but nothing you couldn't handle, as always you gave me strength I didn't even know I had and together we made it home. For months we worked endlessly to heal both of our bodies and then I nearly lost you again. You started to leave me and I couldn't bare to watch you slip away. So full of life and wonder and yet you couldn't seem to function in our world anymore. You regressed to lying on your bed twirling the yarns of your blanket. My little boy was still in there but he had lost his ability to share it. Luckily the training I had with your brother gave me a head start and we began treating your autism before the doctors could even get you an appointment. You were slow coming back to me but you were a fighter- in more ways than one. I never doubted your strength and you never lost your ability to hold my heart even when you couldn't bring yourself to stay in my world.
We've been through a lot together you and I. We have had irreplaceable losses and immeasurable gains. Together we ran, regardless of where we were or what time it was, watched endless hours of Thomas the Train, learned sign language (until you excelled again and decided I wasn't so bad to talk to), we dodged multiple trucks heading straight toward you- although I will admit you always handle that much better than I do. We've been through many therapists but always found you and I made the best team. We've learned every way to cook a hash brown, where the best places were to get french fries (and which streets to avoid because once you saw the arch it was over)and that modern day miracles still happen. You only tell the truth, which sometimes hurts more than the hit to the nose, but you never miss an opportunity to live life to the fullest by wanting to enjoy every minute... even if that means not sleeping for 48 hours straight.
You have taught me so much about a lot of things but mostly about myself. I am a better person because of you and anyone who meets you is better because of it. I never knew I could run so fast but you keep reminding me. I never realized it before you but I can take a hit, several at one time with feet and teeth involved- but yes, I can take it like a pro. Messes are nothing compared to your smile and I'm even getting more calm when I walk in to find you holding a butcher knife and playing with matches (but I won't be sad if I never walk in on that again.. so you have my permission to stop anytime you see fit). I have treasured all of our memories (even the ones that completely freak me out)and you always find ways to make me smile and forget the troubles of my world as I spend a little time in yours. I didn't like entering your room to see you trying to escape out the window of the second story and my heart skips many beats when I can't locate exactly where you are- never leave me. I need you. I have so much more to learn from you.
You have the determination and power of a leader. You indeed march to own your beat. Who else could wear goggles, pj's and a pink tutu, dance like a nutcracker yet still make a grown man cry with one punch before the song is over. You enjoy life to the fullest and never take for granted the simple things that most of us don't have time for. You could spin and swing for hours and little did I know that I could too. You can outrun anyone, although I thank you for occasionally slowing down for me and you show that six pounds of ketchup a week is still not enough for a growing boy with needs.
You are seven today and my what a seven years it has been. Lucky seven has nothing on you! Some people might say that we've lost the boy we thought we had or missed out on things because of the special life you live and well they are right, but not for the reasons they assume. You are not the boy we once thought we had- you are stronger and we did miss out on things but that's only because we've been spending our time doing things that are better; things we would never know if you hadn't chosen us. In spite of all your curiosities and near death experiences, you bring heaven into our home with the angels that surround you. You make me a better person by helping me leave a "normal" world behind and strive for a much higher one. You are a leader among men, you stand out and I hope you will always have the fight within you to stand up for what you believe. You have a special mission here in this life and I am blessed to be a part of it. Thank you for letting me be your mama bear and for always encouraging me to step up, be better and do more. You may be a tiger with one heck of a bite but you will always be my little cub.
I love you Buggy and Happy Birthday!
Fitting to your personality, you decided to get me up in the middle of the night to check on you. Of course you let me know you were ready by creating a puddle of water all over the floor (I should have seen the signs then and bought a house with no tubs or faucets but alas we all live and learn). We arrived at the hospital bright and really early and all was well. I was dilated to an eight without any numbing and when asked if I could feel the contractions I simply replied, "yes, but they are nothing compared to how I'd been feeling for the last six months!" You decided to find a nice cushy spot on one of my nerves and made it so I couldn't walk without crutches and eventually ended up in a wheelchair... we now joke that you were giving me one last chance to sit down and wanted me to enjoy it while I could.
I accepted the epidural and before it could kick in you decided to make a stir. One minute I was laying there eating ice chips and then monitors starting going off, doctors and nurses starting rushing everywhere- your dad was pushed out of the way and I was flipped over onto my stomach and rushed out of the room. The only words I heard, "we lost the baby" struck my core and I began to cry but before the first tear could fall I had a calm come over me and I knew that no matter what happened to you or me- we were both going to be OK. The doctor told me we were doing an emergency c-section and there was no time to numb me, I panicked with fear and pleaded with the doctor that I didn't want to feel anything. He assured me he would do the best he could and immediately started bringing you into this world. I experienced pain that I'd never felt before, but once I knew you were OK, nothing else seemed to matter and I was blessed by a higher power to be removed from the experience. Doctors rushed to our care and with the help of superior knowledge, modern medicine, technology and the love of our Heavenly Father- both of our lives were spared.
You had a few issues but nothing you couldn't handle, as always you gave me strength I didn't even know I had and together we made it home. For months we worked endlessly to heal both of our bodies and then I nearly lost you again. You started to leave me and I couldn't bare to watch you slip away. So full of life and wonder and yet you couldn't seem to function in our world anymore. You regressed to lying on your bed twirling the yarns of your blanket. My little boy was still in there but he had lost his ability to share it. Luckily the training I had with your brother gave me a head start and we began treating your autism before the doctors could even get you an appointment. You were slow coming back to me but you were a fighter- in more ways than one. I never doubted your strength and you never lost your ability to hold my heart even when you couldn't bring yourself to stay in my world.
We've been through a lot together you and I. We have had irreplaceable losses and immeasurable gains. Together we ran, regardless of where we were or what time it was, watched endless hours of Thomas the Train, learned sign language (until you excelled again and decided I wasn't so bad to talk to), we dodged multiple trucks heading straight toward you- although I will admit you always handle that much better than I do. We've been through many therapists but always found you and I made the best team. We've learned every way to cook a hash brown, where the best places were to get french fries (and which streets to avoid because once you saw the arch it was over)and that modern day miracles still happen. You only tell the truth, which sometimes hurts more than the hit to the nose, but you never miss an opportunity to live life to the fullest by wanting to enjoy every minute... even if that means not sleeping for 48 hours straight.
You have taught me so much about a lot of things but mostly about myself. I am a better person because of you and anyone who meets you is better because of it. I never knew I could run so fast but you keep reminding me. I never realized it before you but I can take a hit, several at one time with feet and teeth involved- but yes, I can take it like a pro. Messes are nothing compared to your smile and I'm even getting more calm when I walk in to find you holding a butcher knife and playing with matches (but I won't be sad if I never walk in on that again.. so you have my permission to stop anytime you see fit). I have treasured all of our memories (even the ones that completely freak me out)and you always find ways to make me smile and forget the troubles of my world as I spend a little time in yours. I didn't like entering your room to see you trying to escape out the window of the second story and my heart skips many beats when I can't locate exactly where you are- never leave me. I need you. I have so much more to learn from you.
You have the determination and power of a leader. You indeed march to own your beat. Who else could wear goggles, pj's and a pink tutu, dance like a nutcracker yet still make a grown man cry with one punch before the song is over. You enjoy life to the fullest and never take for granted the simple things that most of us don't have time for. You could spin and swing for hours and little did I know that I could too. You can outrun anyone, although I thank you for occasionally slowing down for me and you show that six pounds of ketchup a week is still not enough for a growing boy with needs.
You are seven today and my what a seven years it has been. Lucky seven has nothing on you! Some people might say that we've lost the boy we thought we had or missed out on things because of the special life you live and well they are right, but not for the reasons they assume. You are not the boy we once thought we had- you are stronger and we did miss out on things but that's only because we've been spending our time doing things that are better; things we would never know if you hadn't chosen us. In spite of all your curiosities and near death experiences, you bring heaven into our home with the angels that surround you. You make me a better person by helping me leave a "normal" world behind and strive for a much higher one. You are a leader among men, you stand out and I hope you will always have the fight within you to stand up for what you believe. You have a special mission here in this life and I am blessed to be a part of it. Thank you for letting me be your mama bear and for always encouraging me to step up, be better and do more. You may be a tiger with one heck of a bite but you will always be my little cub.
I love you Buggy and Happy Birthday!
1.02.2011
Twelve days of Christmas
If you were hanging around our place this past month you would have had an abundance of Christmas spirit to partake of. Here's a few highlights:
Tiger loves the nutcracker, so we painted a nutcracker on the front window for him to see when he got home from school. He Loved it, the only backfire was when he loved it so much he tried to break my window so he could have it with him always... "I will take it now", he says very determined. We took a picture, he carries that around and saved my window. Puppy and Monkey wanted all of the windows done so we complied and spent three hours dressing our home. Puppy had so much fun she decided that she and monkey should continue the fun; the rug doctor saved both of their lives and my bedroom floor.
Gingerbread houses aren't really our thing so together we made a gingerbread out-house complete with an open door and marshmallow toilet paper all over the floor- it should after all be true to reality. To prove we do have a cute side we also made a gingerbread zoo train- 2 words- glue gun. Once covered in icing and candies they turned out so cute I was almost had a tiny bit of guilt to have to hide it from the kids; so after I got over being selfish, I displayed it for all to see- the dog ate it that night.
Presents were wrapped, re wrapped and then wrapped again Christmas Eve.
Hot Chocolate was served daily, it wasn't drank by most but I loved it (and Rhino insists it's part of the holiday)
The tree managed to keep all of it's lights on, the stockings didn't stand a chance and we only lost five decorations to the holiday loving carnivores. May our bells forever ring... wherever they are.
Rhino asked for 3 things: a stick, a toy panda and a triceratops. Santa managed to find a five foot walking stick with an alligator design and alligator head for the handle. SCORE. Santa hired great grandpa as an elf this year (yes, it's OK to hire holiday help. The weekend before Christmas we go the call and loaded up the truck and trailer. The 10 ft x 4ft dinosaur was loaded up, covered up and driven 4 hours in fog and ice to get it home. Christmas eve left four grown adults slipping in the mud trying to move it to the appropriate place in the backyard. Finally Santa ditched the slay and hooked up the beast (Rudolph's got nothing on the Chevy), moved a few things around and we elves used muscled we never knew we owned. The next morning brought one happy little boy... the toy panda? well, you can't have everything.
Tiger wanted legos. Tiger got legos- about 1500 of them and if you'd like to see what that number looks like it is currently on display in the upstairs loft. The best gift Tiger gave was his constant singing of Polar Express songs and I (don't) want a Hippopotamus for Christmas... even if it was in the middle of church; I loved hearing his sweet voice.
Puppy got puppies. 8 of them. She wanted a few barbies because some neighbors have them so she was (for once) treated like a little girl) but it didn't take long before the barbies were beheaded... luckily she was more interested in the puppies. She spends everyday renaming them and making sure we all know they take priority in her secure life.
Monkey was amazed. At first she was just happy to get a jingle bell and then Tiger showed her the more interesting side of Christmas. She quickly learned that underneath each piece of paper rested a very nice gift. Like Tiger, she didn't care whose name was on it- she loved it as her own just the same. By the end of the present supply we had to restrain her in Dad's arms because she would launch in every direction a gift was being passed reeking havoc on the person it was really intended for. A stocking full of chocolate finally encouraged her to put her fangs away and be happy for what she herself got.
We started a new tradition this year. Not the one where Mr. Zookeeper gets sick leaving me alone with 4 crazies at a Christmas party or the one where he falls asleep at 8:00 on Christmas Eve. Instead the intentional one was that we'd open presents after breakfast. My kiddos require every meal. It doesn't matter if breakfast is served at 11:45, lunch is demanded. While not well received at first, I stood my ground and set my alarm clock (to try and make it a little less painful, for me, I figured I'd get a head start. The Christmas Eve fog lingered and daylight spared us a few hours so it worked out better than I had dared to hope. It was so refreshing to get to enjoy the presents and time spent unwrapping (because now it was actually allowed)and to not have to rush off to feed the hungry animals. Ahh, a plan that actually worked.
The season was here and we loved every minute of it! The real reason for the season is always with us, my children, while nuts and crazy most of the time carry the spirit of Christ everywhere they go so this time of year just enhances the blessings we have. I love my family with all of my heart and it was very full every time I got to see their faces light up.
To close out the year I'd like to share our Christmas card that went out; our version of the twelve days of Christmas:
Twelve months of "is it Christmas yet?"
Eleven months of "no- not yet"
Ten years of marriage
Nine times five pounds of flour
Ate lots of hashbrowns
Seven meals to cook each day
Six (almost) calls to 9-1-1
"mom, Tiger's doing it again"
Four amazing kids
Three (please don't ask)
Two very happy parents
And a Merry Christmas from our family Zoo!
Tiger loves the nutcracker, so we painted a nutcracker on the front window for him to see when he got home from school. He Loved it, the only backfire was when he loved it so much he tried to break my window so he could have it with him always... "I will take it now", he says very determined. We took a picture, he carries that around and saved my window. Puppy and Monkey wanted all of the windows done so we complied and spent three hours dressing our home. Puppy had so much fun she decided that she and monkey should continue the fun; the rug doctor saved both of their lives and my bedroom floor.
Gingerbread houses aren't really our thing so together we made a gingerbread out-house complete with an open door and marshmallow toilet paper all over the floor- it should after all be true to reality. To prove we do have a cute side we also made a gingerbread zoo train- 2 words- glue gun. Once covered in icing and candies they turned out so cute I was almost had a tiny bit of guilt to have to hide it from the kids; so after I got over being selfish, I displayed it for all to see- the dog ate it that night.
Presents were wrapped, re wrapped and then wrapped again Christmas Eve.
Hot Chocolate was served daily, it wasn't drank by most but I loved it (and Rhino insists it's part of the holiday)
The tree managed to keep all of it's lights on, the stockings didn't stand a chance and we only lost five decorations to the holiday loving carnivores. May our bells forever ring... wherever they are.
Rhino asked for 3 things: a stick, a toy panda and a triceratops. Santa managed to find a five foot walking stick with an alligator design and alligator head for the handle. SCORE. Santa hired great grandpa as an elf this year (yes, it's OK to hire holiday help. The weekend before Christmas we go the call and loaded up the truck and trailer. The 10 ft x 4ft dinosaur was loaded up, covered up and driven 4 hours in fog and ice to get it home. Christmas eve left four grown adults slipping in the mud trying to move it to the appropriate place in the backyard. Finally Santa ditched the slay and hooked up the beast (Rudolph's got nothing on the Chevy), moved a few things around and we elves used muscled we never knew we owned. The next morning brought one happy little boy... the toy panda? well, you can't have everything.
Tiger wanted legos. Tiger got legos- about 1500 of them and if you'd like to see what that number looks like it is currently on display in the upstairs loft. The best gift Tiger gave was his constant singing of Polar Express songs and I (don't) want a Hippopotamus for Christmas... even if it was in the middle of church; I loved hearing his sweet voice.
Puppy got puppies. 8 of them. She wanted a few barbies because some neighbors have them so she was (for once) treated like a little girl) but it didn't take long before the barbies were beheaded... luckily she was more interested in the puppies. She spends everyday renaming them and making sure we all know they take priority in her secure life.
Monkey was amazed. At first she was just happy to get a jingle bell and then Tiger showed her the more interesting side of Christmas. She quickly learned that underneath each piece of paper rested a very nice gift. Like Tiger, she didn't care whose name was on it- she loved it as her own just the same. By the end of the present supply we had to restrain her in Dad's arms because she would launch in every direction a gift was being passed reeking havoc on the person it was really intended for. A stocking full of chocolate finally encouraged her to put her fangs away and be happy for what she herself got.
We started a new tradition this year. Not the one where Mr. Zookeeper gets sick leaving me alone with 4 crazies at a Christmas party or the one where he falls asleep at 8:00 on Christmas Eve. Instead the intentional one was that we'd open presents after breakfast. My kiddos require every meal. It doesn't matter if breakfast is served at 11:45, lunch is demanded. While not well received at first, I stood my ground and set my alarm clock (to try and make it a little less painful, for me, I figured I'd get a head start. The Christmas Eve fog lingered and daylight spared us a few hours so it worked out better than I had dared to hope. It was so refreshing to get to enjoy the presents and time spent unwrapping (because now it was actually allowed)and to not have to rush off to feed the hungry animals. Ahh, a plan that actually worked.
The season was here and we loved every minute of it! The real reason for the season is always with us, my children, while nuts and crazy most of the time carry the spirit of Christ everywhere they go so this time of year just enhances the blessings we have. I love my family with all of my heart and it was very full every time I got to see their faces light up.
To close out the year I'd like to share our Christmas card that went out; our version of the twelve days of Christmas:
Twelve months of "is it Christmas yet?"
Eleven months of "no- not yet"
Ten years of marriage
Nine times five pounds of flour
Ate lots of hashbrowns
Seven meals to cook each day
Six (almost) calls to 9-1-1
"mom, Tiger's doing it again"
Four amazing kids
Three (please don't ask)
Two very happy parents
And a Merry Christmas from our family Zoo!
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