My Little Smudge is 11 today!
I can't believe it! where did the time go????
We always tell "The Birth Story" on birthdays in our house. Little bud is different because, as he's adopted, we have his "Gotcha Day" story instead, about the day he came to live with us.
Smudge's birth story was that he was our rainbow baby. I have a history of very large babies, something we didn't realise until in the middle of giving birth to my daughter!!! (A harrowing tale for another time...)
Because of this, I was checked, scanned and monitored very closely through the next 2 pregnancies, and when I was scanned at 37 weeks, and he was measuring 9lb1oz, they decided to induce me at 38 weeks! (As an older and wiser mama now, this is not something I would allow now, however I was 22 and easily swayed by the authority of the midwife and doctors.)
The labour it's self was pretty straight forward, but the panic of the midwives when I was ready to push caused him to get stuck. (that, and the fact that they had AGAIN put me on my side, and although I have broad hips, that sucker was not budging that way.) I managed to tell them I want to be on my back and when I moved, so did he!
The result was a very blue faced, Beautiful baby that weighed exactly 10lb!!!!
Over the course of the next few days, his face went from blue to purple, then to red, then to yellow, as he developed jaundice (!) and then finally to a plump pink! Hence the rainbow baby.
So, as we do every year, I retold the Birth story, and Smudge snuggled in and smiled as he listened. See, some family traditions just make you feel home......
Happy Birthday Smudge x
Wednesday 26 June 2013
Tuesday 25 June 2013
Sunshine and flowers
I love it when the sun shines!!
Woke up this morning to a beautiful sunny day! Decided that I was going to take my big dog for a long walk today, as she has been teaching the pup lately and he can only go for 20 mins at a time.
We took a lovely walk through a large cornfield not far from our house, and I don't know why, but being out in the sunshine, with my boys and my Poppy, looking at God's glorious creation, really lifted my spirits today!
Poppy was pleased to get out for a proper run, and Haribo picked me the most beautiful little bunch of wild flowers, so I feel very spoilt today
I am a very lucky mama!!
My baby puppy Murphy went out for a walk too, and he really seemed to enjoy it....!
And that reminds me, I may need to vacuum....... :-o (Oh My!!)
Woke up this morning to a beautiful sunny day! Decided that I was going to take my big dog for a long walk today, as she has been teaching the pup lately and he can only go for 20 mins at a time.
We took a lovely walk through a large cornfield not far from our house, and I don't know why, but being out in the sunshine, with my boys and my Poppy, looking at God's glorious creation, really lifted my spirits today!
Poppy was pleased to get out for a proper run, and Haribo picked me the most beautiful little bunch of wild flowers, so I feel very spoilt today
I am a very lucky mama!!
My baby puppy Murphy went out for a walk too, and he really seemed to enjoy it....!
And that reminds me, I may need to vacuum....... :-o (Oh My!!)
Sunday 23 June 2013
Getting to that point.....
It is getting a little crowded in here.
No, i'm not cracking with all the animals, it's that cabin fever feeling that we mamas get when we have been with our children without a break for going on 4 weeks!!!
I had a lovely coffee with a dear friend about 4 weeks ago, and besides sleeping, that was the last time I was without a child. I know my children are getting to the age where they don't need the constant supervision of a toddler, but even when my daughter is in her bedroom, I know she is there and may need me at any moment!
I love my babies, I am very glad that they are homeschooled, and I wouldn't change that.
I JUST NEED SOME TIME!!!
Do you hear me, mamas?
Only problem is, hubby is at work for the next 6 days and so it's another week until I can get an hour to myself! Noooooooooo!!!
Lots of Prayer and lots of deep breaths, I think!!
No, i'm not cracking with all the animals, it's that cabin fever feeling that we mamas get when we have been with our children without a break for going on 4 weeks!!!
I had a lovely coffee with a dear friend about 4 weeks ago, and besides sleeping, that was the last time I was without a child. I know my children are getting to the age where they don't need the constant supervision of a toddler, but even when my daughter is in her bedroom, I know she is there and may need me at any moment!
I love my babies, I am very glad that they are homeschooled, and I wouldn't change that.
I JUST NEED SOME TIME!!!
Do you hear me, mamas?
Only problem is, hubby is at work for the next 6 days and so it's another week until I can get an hour to myself! Noooooooooo!!!
Lots of Prayer and lots of deep breaths, I think!!
Friday 21 June 2013
Warmer places
I am currently sat with a tab open on a villa in Gran Canaria.
After booking a holiday to Scotland in the middle of NOVEMBER (my idea of a wistful winter retreat), we are looking at warmer climates for next year, for our first family holiday abroad.
I am naturally a very fair skinned blonde, so sun doesn't usually appeal to me, but with the gray cloud cover AGAIN her in sunny England, I am feeling a serious need for the prospect of some sun.
My sweetheart's fave holiday destination is Gran Canaria and we have never been abroad together in 14 yrs of marriage, so I feel it's time.
Having never been on holiday when I'm paying, and having a family of 6 to plan for, the prices are a little gulp worthy, but I think it's time to take a deep breath, and save hard.
My sweetheart deserves it.
He works hard for us, and deserves a rest.
And the sun would do me no harm whatsoever!!! (As long as I bulk buy sunscreen and floppy hats!!)
Planning is good. Doing is better. Let's go!!!
After booking a holiday to Scotland in the middle of NOVEMBER (my idea of a wistful winter retreat), we are looking at warmer climates for next year, for our first family holiday abroad.
I am naturally a very fair skinned blonde, so sun doesn't usually appeal to me, but with the gray cloud cover AGAIN her in sunny England, I am feeling a serious need for the prospect of some sun.
My sweetheart's fave holiday destination is Gran Canaria and we have never been abroad together in 14 yrs of marriage, so I feel it's time.
Having never been on holiday when I'm paying, and having a family of 6 to plan for, the prices are a little gulp worthy, but I think it's time to take a deep breath, and save hard.
My sweetheart deserves it.
He works hard for us, and deserves a rest.
And the sun would do me no harm whatsoever!!! (As long as I bulk buy sunscreen and floppy hats!!)
Planning is good. Doing is better. Let's go!!!
Tuesday 18 June 2013
And Relaaaaax.....
Phew!!!
Sometimes, you need an outside perspective on things.
We had our annual Home schooling visit from the Local Authority today.
I sometimes worry (me, really???!!) about whether the kids are doing ok, whether I need to do more, or less with them and just generally am I doing a good job. (I don't think it is just me)
Well, our reviewing officer was very pleased with what we are doing, and how much the children are learning, and the variety, so I was worrying for nothing at midnight last night!
I know my children, and I am so glad that we decided to homeschool them, but, as with most aspects of parenting, I am sometime struck down with doubt. I worry. I shouldn't, I know, if God is truly my Father, He will take care of us, and prompt me. I can't help it sometimes though, and in His gracious mercy, He sends me encouragement when I need it.
My children are happy, healthy and bright. They are unique, special and confident. They are polite, talented and a gift from God.
Lord help me to guide and cherish these beautiful presents and help them and I to live every day in Your Glorious Presence
Amen
Sometimes, you need an outside perspective on things.
We had our annual Home schooling visit from the Local Authority today.
I sometimes worry (me, really???!!) about whether the kids are doing ok, whether I need to do more, or less with them and just generally am I doing a good job. (I don't think it is just me)
Well, our reviewing officer was very pleased with what we are doing, and how much the children are learning, and the variety, so I was worrying for nothing at midnight last night!
I know my children, and I am so glad that we decided to homeschool them, but, as with most aspects of parenting, I am sometime struck down with doubt. I worry. I shouldn't, I know, if God is truly my Father, He will take care of us, and prompt me. I can't help it sometimes though, and in His gracious mercy, He sends me encouragement when I need it.
My children are happy, healthy and bright. They are unique, special and confident. They are polite, talented and a gift from God.
Lord help me to guide and cherish these beautiful presents and help them and I to live every day in Your Glorious Presence
Amen
Monday 17 June 2013
Summer Ideas
Summer is on the way, even though the weather needs to catch up, but the first thing most parents think is "what on earth am I going to do with the kids???"
Well, you are not alone. Even if you are a homeschooling family, the vast expanse of summer holidays can be daunting. We also have the added inconvenience of no car, but there are ways to entertain the chicklets on those long lazy summer days.
Obvious activities include getting the paddling pool out on a sunny day, picnics in the back yard, and bubble blowers etc.
A trip to the beach, (which we have the luxury of living close to) or a cinema trip is a nice treat day, and bowling is great for any age group.
Bike rides as a family are a nice memory to make, I remember spending many hours as a kid biking all over the countryside and i would love for my children to have the same.
Getting the kids involved in gardening, or outside chores, such as sweeping, or mowing the lawn, if they are old enough (currently Haribo's summer job) is a nice way to keep up the good work ethic and can be made fun. The same can be done at the old summer favorite the Barbecue. Helpers don't have to go near the hot grill, but little ones love to help butter buns with a spoon, or toss the salad, or set the plates out, or hand out napkins! Everything is fun to little ones!
Bug collecting (and releasing them when done) is also a nice touch, both for pleasure and education, fruit picking, farm visits, outside crafts, long walks, long drinks, long visits, summer has so many possibilities, with just a little preparation and planning.
My aim is to plan one day trip outside the home a week, and fill in the other days as and when the weather or the mood takes us. I found that I need to plan, otherwise the days slip away and we get nothing done!!!
So a calendar and a list are my essentials for summer, but having said that, there will be lots of lazy, lounging days, because that is what summer is for, after all....
Well, you are not alone. Even if you are a homeschooling family, the vast expanse of summer holidays can be daunting. We also have the added inconvenience of no car, but there are ways to entertain the chicklets on those long lazy summer days.
Obvious activities include getting the paddling pool out on a sunny day, picnics in the back yard, and bubble blowers etc.
A trip to the beach, (which we have the luxury of living close to) or a cinema trip is a nice treat day, and bowling is great for any age group.
Bike rides as a family are a nice memory to make, I remember spending many hours as a kid biking all over the countryside and i would love for my children to have the same.
Getting the kids involved in gardening, or outside chores, such as sweeping, or mowing the lawn, if they are old enough (currently Haribo's summer job) is a nice way to keep up the good work ethic and can be made fun. The same can be done at the old summer favorite the Barbecue. Helpers don't have to go near the hot grill, but little ones love to help butter buns with a spoon, or toss the salad, or set the plates out, or hand out napkins! Everything is fun to little ones!
Bug collecting (and releasing them when done) is also a nice touch, both for pleasure and education, fruit picking, farm visits, outside crafts, long walks, long drinks, long visits, summer has so many possibilities, with just a little preparation and planning.
My aim is to plan one day trip outside the home a week, and fill in the other days as and when the weather or the mood takes us. I found that I need to plan, otherwise the days slip away and we get nothing done!!!
So a calendar and a list are my essentials for summer, but having said that, there will be lots of lazy, lounging days, because that is what summer is for, after all....
Friday 14 June 2013
Spoiled Rotten (Taco Salad Recipe)
I am being very spoilt at the moment, my kids made yummy Taco salad for mama today!!!
A new favorite in the Gee household, it's refreshing, but filling too, so I thought I would share the love and give the REALLY easy recipe!
Taco Salad
A new favorite in the Gee household, it's refreshing, but filling too, so I thought I would share the love and give the REALLY easy recipe!
Taco Salad
Begin with as many of these ingredients as possible:
Back down to earth.....
Took the dogs for a walk to the pet shop this morning.
Nothing quite like trying to manage 2 boxers, one a puppy, to bring you back down to earth.
After much thought yesterday, in my deep reverie, I realized that I love my animals, hair, stress, muddy footprints and all, and if my floor is messy, well, I will clean it eventually.
You see, I have felt pressured to keep a clean house, and felt the weight of guilt when I fail MISERABLY!!!!
I have a certain tolerance for mess that others may not have, and when it gets to a certain point, even I cant ignore it any more, and I clean up.
My sweetheart is the same, which is half the battle, so I have decided that I will not feel guilty any more for living how WE want to. It might not be to everyone's standards, and there are those in my family and friends who will probably not visit my home because of it, but I am no longer going to stress about other's opinions of me and my home.
Let me stress, it is not a HOVEL or anything, just some clutter, a little dust and some muddy footprints. The bathroom is cleaned every week, and the vacuuming and dusting is done at LEAST once a week. The bedding is clean, and the kitchen worktops are cleaned several times a day, it's just that we have stuff. Everywhere. I should probably sort it out, and I will. When it gets too much for me to bear. Not before.
There is Lego, paper aeroplanes, hair ties, stickers and pens all over my house, and I happen to love it. It shows my kids play, create, and live in my house. I prompt them to put their things in their bedrooms, and they know to clear up after themselves, so I feel I am not doing wrong by them. We love our house, even if others don't.
So my dogs brought me back into the real world today, just by being there. By being mine to love and take care of and guide and discipline, just like my kids, except without the smart mouths!!
Nothing quite like trying to manage 2 boxers, one a puppy, to bring you back down to earth.
After much thought yesterday, in my deep reverie, I realized that I love my animals, hair, stress, muddy footprints and all, and if my floor is messy, well, I will clean it eventually.
You see, I have felt pressured to keep a clean house, and felt the weight of guilt when I fail MISERABLY!!!!
I have a certain tolerance for mess that others may not have, and when it gets to a certain point, even I cant ignore it any more, and I clean up.
My sweetheart is the same, which is half the battle, so I have decided that I will not feel guilty any more for living how WE want to. It might not be to everyone's standards, and there are those in my family and friends who will probably not visit my home because of it, but I am no longer going to stress about other's opinions of me and my home.
Let me stress, it is not a HOVEL or anything, just some clutter, a little dust and some muddy footprints. The bathroom is cleaned every week, and the vacuuming and dusting is done at LEAST once a week. The bedding is clean, and the kitchen worktops are cleaned several times a day, it's just that we have stuff. Everywhere. I should probably sort it out, and I will. When it gets too much for me to bear. Not before.
There is Lego, paper aeroplanes, hair ties, stickers and pens all over my house, and I happen to love it. It shows my kids play, create, and live in my house. I prompt them to put their things in their bedrooms, and they know to clear up after themselves, so I feel I am not doing wrong by them. We love our house, even if others don't.
So my dogs brought me back into the real world today, just by being there. By being mine to love and take care of and guide and discipline, just like my kids, except without the smart mouths!!
Thursday 13 June 2013
Do You Know...?
Do you know how I feel?
I'm sure you do. When everything in your life feels like it is spinning all around you and you are in the eye of the storm.
Being melodramatic is kind of in my nature, but sometimes, just sometimes, it really feels like you don't know your right from your left.
Certain things are changing in our house, and one of the biggest ones is me. My Father in heaven loves me too much to stay the same, and when He shows you the truth about yourself, it's usually wise to listen.
This is one of the most painful times in life, when you realise who you truly are, rather than who you think you are, but Jesus said "you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free".
Letting go of who you thought you were, now there is the hard part.
How do you learn who you are?
How do you judge what is you and what is who you want to be? How do you stop trying to please everyone else and look at what is truly in your heart?
I had thought I was making progress with this and in one way I was. Deciding to home school my children goes completely against the grain of what everyone in my life believes in, and thought I was capable of. And it really wasn't that scary once we did it.
So how do I go from one brave step to sorting through the influences that have shaped me to believe I must be a certain way, act a certain way, do certain things to be accepted, when I have spent most of my life striving for this and disappointing anyway?
Who am I really?
Only my Father can tell me that.
He allows discomfort in our lives for one primary purpose: to bring us running to Him.
Such a shame that we stubborn creatures run like Jonah did in the opposite direction more often than not!
Well, I want answers and for that I need to run TO Him not AWAY from Him. Only he can show me who I am, and then make me happy with it.
I am not what my husband thinks I am, nor my Mother, nor siblings, nor friends, nor public.
I am what God thinks I am.
I'm worth dying for. Not because I did anything worthy, just simply because God loves me.
And He loves you too.
x
I'm sure you do. When everything in your life feels like it is spinning all around you and you are in the eye of the storm.
Being melodramatic is kind of in my nature, but sometimes, just sometimes, it really feels like you don't know your right from your left.
Certain things are changing in our house, and one of the biggest ones is me. My Father in heaven loves me too much to stay the same, and when He shows you the truth about yourself, it's usually wise to listen.
This is one of the most painful times in life, when you realise who you truly are, rather than who you think you are, but Jesus said "you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free".
Letting go of who you thought you were, now there is the hard part.
How do you learn who you are?
How do you judge what is you and what is who you want to be? How do you stop trying to please everyone else and look at what is truly in your heart?
I had thought I was making progress with this and in one way I was. Deciding to home school my children goes completely against the grain of what everyone in my life believes in, and thought I was capable of. And it really wasn't that scary once we did it.
So how do I go from one brave step to sorting through the influences that have shaped me to believe I must be a certain way, act a certain way, do certain things to be accepted, when I have spent most of my life striving for this and disappointing anyway?
Who am I really?
Only my Father can tell me that.
He allows discomfort in our lives for one primary purpose: to bring us running to Him.
Such a shame that we stubborn creatures run like Jonah did in the opposite direction more often than not!
Well, I want answers and for that I need to run TO Him not AWAY from Him. Only he can show me who I am, and then make me happy with it.
I am not what my husband thinks I am, nor my Mother, nor siblings, nor friends, nor public.
I am what God thinks I am.
I'm worth dying for. Not because I did anything worthy, just simply because God loves me.
And He loves you too.
x
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