March offered a great many books for me to read. Some of them were deep, some romantic, and some funny, and some just made me think about life in general. Here is the list for this month:
13. The Elegance of the hedgehog - Muriel Barbery
It has been a while since I read such an amazing book with excellent writing, good plot, deep thought, and with such an honest presentations of one's own inner feelings and ideas. The book is written by a French writer, and I have to say the translation was superb. Everything about this book touched me and I couldn't put it down. After reading this book, reading other books that were not of the same level made me feel guilty. The story follows the life of Renee, a manager of a rich people's building, and how her faith in people and love was restored after she meets and is befriended by a gentleman who takes a whole floor apartment in this rich people's abode. Parallel to Renee's story, we get to know the thoughts and life of a 12 year old who lives in this building. Paloma has discovered the hypocrisy and cluelessness found in many high society people's lives, and has decided that this life isn't worth it if spent on silly pursuits. However, after meeting Renee and the newcomer Mr. Ozu, Paloma finds beauty and meaning in life. The whole book feels like a collection of essays on any topic your mind goes through. Renee ponders on the meaning of art, beauty, friendship, love, life, literature, film, and the search for meaning in mundane things of life. This is a philosophical fiction in its perfect form. I had to quit writing down her quotes on my book, because every chapter had gems everywhere and I couldn't keep up with them. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves to think. I just wished I could send this great author a copy of the Book of Mormon, just so she could find a more optimistic view of life, and a truly profound meaning of it.
14. The Wedding girl - Madeleine Wickham
The same author who wrote Shopaholic series, writes other ones using her real name Madeleine Wickham. Although not as funny as the shopaholic books, this one deals with issues of family, honesty, and love by using her signature humor. If you are looking for a light book to read just to relax, this can be a good one.
15. La's orchestra saves the world - Alexander McCall Smith
This book was unlike any of McCall Smith's other novels with their strong women character that are not afraid of anything in life and who are bigger than life itself. In this novel, McCall Smith introduces us the life of Lavender, or as she is called La. La is quiet and reserved heroine, a bit flat for me, who does what is expected of her in the years before WWII. She goes to college, marries and is ready to settle down as a devoted wife and a future mother. Alas, it doesn't happen for her. Betrayed by her husband, and then later widowed, she takes exile in a little country home that her in-laws give to her. There she makes friends with a few characters, helps create an orchestra so she can keep the village's spirit up as Hitler takes Europe in a storm. The music helps bring faith and hope into people's lives, as well as hers. She falls in love with one air force man from Poland who can't fly but helps out with farm work in the village. Although she knows she is in love with him, La doesn't do anything about it, until many years later. The book is interesting and has an interesting approach to the topic of wars, but the characters totally fell flat for me, all of them, but especially La. Even the creation of the orchestra wasn't quite developed as an idea as it should have. Truth be told, this was a waste of time writing and reading.
16. Darcy and Elizabeth, nights and days at Pemberly - Linda Berdoll
Goodness, this author was obsessed with the Darcy's love life. And when not writing about how much Darcy wanted to make love to Elisabeth, she kept making up things about each character, beyond anybody's imagination. I have to give it to her though, she does understand the manners and etiquette of that society's very well, and would throw some scandalous events to shock the proper attitude. If you didn't think this as an attempted sequel to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, you might enjoy this book as a novel on its own. The characters are well developed, the plot is interesting, and there are some very funny parts and characters that make you laugh. It is a bit too long, and it repeats itself on many occasions, however. So, it's funny, interesting, but too long.
17. Miss you most of all - Elizabeth Bass
I just found this at the library, and started reading it without reading any reviews about it. I was pleasantly surprised with the characters and the story. It takes place in a small town in Texas, where two sisters are taking care of their family's farm. One sister is divorced and has a daughter, the other is emotionally alienated by the society. The older sister, the divorced one, Rue, is kind, patient, loving and always thinking of others. The younger one, Laura, is matter-of-fact girl, with plenty of faults and weaknesses, which hide her true heart. The story starts picking up when their ex-stepsister comes along, to escape some problems back in New York. When Rue discovers that her cancer is coming back, and perhaps deadly this time, she finds solace in Heidi, the step-sister, whose present is hated and loathed by Laura. When everybody seems to love Heidi, even Webb, the guy who loves Laura, but whose love isn't returned, at least on appearance, things get crazy. Themes of family ties, true friendships, mother and daughter relationship, sisterly love, romantic love, overcoming lost and hurt, are some of the many issues treated in this pleasant contemporary novel.
18. Death of a Squire - Maureen Ash
A very interesting historical crime book. Lots of history, mystery, and well known names such as Robin Hood, King John, and many more bring this period of British history alive. Bascot de Marin, a Templar knight is entrusted by the wife's sheriff to discover the reason of a squire's death. Is it just accidental or did this simple squire knew more than he should? If you are in mood for some mystery with a twist, this historical crime fiction is just for you.
19. Romancing Miss Bronte - Juliet Gael
To love and to be loved in return has been Charlotte Bronte's ideal goal, but alas, her life circumstances have been harsh upon her. Nevertheless, this shy, but intense woman overcame hardships and trials that would put anyone down. In this well written and researched historical fiction, Juliet Gael gives us a Charlotte that finds power and strength as she shares her feelings with the world through her novels. I love Elizabeth Gaskell's biography of Charlotte Bronte. It is a masterpiece of a biography. However, this novel, because it is a novel, it offers more warmth and personal connection with this great and amazing woman. You won't get to know just Charlotte the author, but Charlotte the woman, and I enjoyed becoming her friend as I read the story of this extraordinary heroine.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Wow! What a day!
I took the older kids out of school today. I hadn't done that so far this semester, so I didn't feel bad. I was ready for a relaxing day sightseeing, and you probably are smiling that I consider taking four kids with me all over San Francisco relaxing, but when you consider that sightseeing with a timetable to keep isn't that relaxing even without kids, you would agree that taking them with me would be better than rushing through my exploring, and then traffic, just so I could be on time in picking them up.
We started our adventure today by slowly driving through China Town. Mom wanted to see it, and I'm sure, explore it on foot, but we just drove from one street to another and have her check China town with its colorful stores and restaurants from the comfort of her seat.
I had taken mom to see the Golden Gate Bridge several times before, but today we drove over it. Her San Fran experience couldn't be complete without driving over this great bridge.
We arrived at Bay Area Discovery Museum in no time. The day was exceptionally beautiful that the children didn't stay indoors for too long. They wanted to have fun at the play area. The three older ones played together, while mom played and took care of Charlton.
After the children played in every single play area many times over, they were ready for some more exploring, so they kept finding fun stuff to see and do just around the playground.
After the children had left no nook and cranny undiscovered, we sat down and had some lunch. Food made us strong and ready for some more exploring. As if this wasn't enough fun, I had put my mind into visiting Muir Woods today. But since I was in no rush, I let the kids have as much fun as they wanted.
Visiting Muir Woods was an amazing experience. We have visited Yosemite several times, and it offers an extraordinary beauty, but it takes hours to get there. Muir Woods is a treasure hidden north of San Francisco, that allows you to enjoy the red woods without having to travel for hours. The weather being warm and nice, made the temperature inside the woods cool and so very comfortable. The paths were laid with smooth wood planks and traversing over them with a stroller was easy as pie. We saw diverse kinds of plants, flowers, and woods. We even saw a fawn up on top, and many Steller's jays, ladybugs, and wrens. The forest floor was covered with mushrooms, ferns, and clover. The red woods were majestic and the kids had fun finding hollow ones to use as hiding places. I really enjoyed this walking experience through centuries of God's creations.
My favorite thing about the whole trip: my kids' safari hats. They make me happy with their innocence, creativity and imagination. I'm so glad I got to spend the whole day with them.
We started our adventure today by slowly driving through China Town. Mom wanted to see it, and I'm sure, explore it on foot, but we just drove from one street to another and have her check China town with its colorful stores and restaurants from the comfort of her seat.
I had taken mom to see the Golden Gate Bridge several times before, but today we drove over it. Her San Fran experience couldn't be complete without driving over this great bridge.
We arrived at Bay Area Discovery Museum in no time. The day was exceptionally beautiful that the children didn't stay indoors for too long. They wanted to have fun at the play area. The three older ones played together, while mom played and took care of Charlton.
After the children played in every single play area many times over, they were ready for some more exploring, so they kept finding fun stuff to see and do just around the playground.
After the children had left no nook and cranny undiscovered, we sat down and had some lunch. Food made us strong and ready for some more exploring. As if this wasn't enough fun, I had put my mind into visiting Muir Woods today. But since I was in no rush, I let the kids have as much fun as they wanted.Visiting Muir Woods was an amazing experience. We have visited Yosemite several times, and it offers an extraordinary beauty, but it takes hours to get there. Muir Woods is a treasure hidden north of San Francisco, that allows you to enjoy the red woods without having to travel for hours. The weather being warm and nice, made the temperature inside the woods cool and so very comfortable. The paths were laid with smooth wood planks and traversing over them with a stroller was easy as pie. We saw diverse kinds of plants, flowers, and woods. We even saw a fawn up on top, and many Steller's jays, ladybugs, and wrens. The forest floor was covered with mushrooms, ferns, and clover. The red woods were majestic and the kids had fun finding hollow ones to use as hiding places. I really enjoyed this walking experience through centuries of God's creations.
My favorite thing about the whole trip: my kids' safari hats. They make me happy with their innocence, creativity and imagination. I'm so glad I got to spend the whole day with them.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Thinking while driving
I was so excited this morning for having dropped the older kids right on time with a few minutes to spare. We are always in a rush and we make it to school either right on the minute or usually a few minutes late. As I was driving home from their school, I was thinking that maybe today I will be on time dropping James and Zoe off at their Pre-K. You see, as soon as I get home from dropping the older kids to school, I have to take care of Charlton (change diaper, outfits, and give him food), make breakfast for James, get ready myself (take a shower, put my make-up on, get ready for the day), and then pick up Zoe, after which I have to drive 10-20 to their Pre-K. For all of this I have only 45 minutes. I'm always late dropping them off. I always feel guilty when I'm late. The fact that I'm late makes me very stressed, and I feel rushed all day. I honestly don't feel good at all when I arrive late. I wish that I was one of those personalities that can estimate their time well and are always on time. Either that, or I wish I never felt guilty or stressed, and accept being late as a fact of life. Not me. I know I'll try being on time all my life, and I will never be on time and I will always stress and obsess about it, and then I'll die one day because of too much stress.
Anyways, this morning I was looking forward to being the first dropping the kids off at Pre-K. I did all the usual things, and then I got in the shower. I have a clock that I keep in the bathroom. That clock helps me measure the time I spend in the bathroom getting ready. I made a mental note of the time before getting in the shower, and then proceed to take a nice and long one. When I get out and enter my room, I notice my bedroom clock didn't match with that of the bathroom. I was way late. I freaked out. Charlton must have messed up my bathroom clock while playing with it this morning. So, here I was all set on being on time, and something like that happens. I know the Lord has said that he will make weak things strong, and I believe this otherwise I wouldn't even try being better on my time issue. However, I'm just glad there will be no time in heaven.
I took my car to rotate its tires today at Sam's. We purchased the tires from there some time ago, and their policy states that because of that we get the rotations always for free. So, I dropped the car off at the tire center, and then took Charlton and did some shopping meanwhile. Do you have the weakness I sport every time I visit Sam's or Costco, which is that regardless of having a list with me, I will succeed its limits and get stuff that weren't even in my mind let alone in my list? Today, I was determined to just follow the list, but to no avail. I saw something that my kids would use and got, and then I saw the excellent prize of grapes and thought that we always need more fruit. After that, I got some snacks for the children, and the list of purchases went on. I had only a few items on my actual list, but the purchasing list was double that. I thought why does this happen and why can't I find the discipline to follow my own rules. I came up with a few answers. First, I must be weak by nature. Some people are spenders and some are frugals. I'm glad I married someone who knows how to manage money and help me with this weakness. Secondly, my list needs to be more specific. I had a friend in Virginia that had a list for all family departments, such as clothes, school items, food, books, entertainment, household, and a few others. She would keep each list on the fridge, and when she went shopping she would take the master list with her. She knew exactly what she needed for that week, and never went over her budget. My list consists of food items and household; the rest is being reminded as I pass the isles by. Thirdly, buying things for me or for others is like therapy, and don't ask me why I need therapy because I don't even know it myself, but it seems buying makes me happy. I had another friend in Virginia that had solved this problem. She would give herself a monthly allowance, not much but enough for her to make a nice purchase for herself that month. She kept at her budget during her weekly shoppings, and then when she felt she wanted to spend something on herself, she would just leave the kids with her husband and shop on her own. I might need to do just that. Elijah suggested I should also pray to overcome this weakness. He promised me that if I did that Heavenly Father will bless me with a tempered hand in spending. Great advice, but the question rises: Do I really want to be cured from this weakness?
After Sam's, I had a few minutes between James' preschool and picking up my mom, so I went to see my friend Janelle to help me jump start on my profile on Mormon.org. I had never been on this site, and it seems easy to actually get your profile done, but I have yet to find time to write something about me. We were reading and watching some of the other profiles and I was touched by the amazing lives that the gospel help us have. With faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ and a knowledge of God's love for us, we can truly achieve anything and overcome everything. This site showed some amazing and humble people throughout the world trying to live a life worthy of a disciple of Christ. I'm humbly grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Later, after I had picked up my mom from her English class and my kids from their school, I got ready to go to the dentist. I fed everybody, put Charlton for a short late afternoon nap, and then headed toward my dentist. I hadn't been to the dentist since November 2009; my teeth needed checking and cleaning. As I was driving, I was wondering what had made me procrastinate for so long in making a dentist appointment. The more I thought about it, the more I was convinced that subconsciously I didn't want to. I had had an unpleasant experience the last time I had been at the dentist. I had had a cleaning and a check-up, and both the hygienist and the dentist hadn't been very gracious in telling me about my teeth. I told Elijah that because they hadn't been Americans, they knew not what bed side manners were, and of course Elijah dismissed it, but I still remain strong in that belief. I like a doctor or dentist that is open and clear about what ails me, but at the same time very gracious and kind in how he presents it. I didn't even have any hard core damage with my teeth then, but these two dentists found whatever I had to be absolutely disastrous. So, you can imagine I wasn't very happy to visit the dentist again. And with good reasons. After 15 years of no cavities, this dentist found 7!!! Imagine that. I don't know if I really have that many cavities or he just wants to make money out of me, but at least he was kind and gracious when he stated the verdict. This hasn't made me very happy. Not only I hate dental work, but I hate paying for it. When I told Elijah that I might end up paying as much for my teeth as I would for a trip to Europe, he just shook his head and said "Let's just take care of our health and then our entertainment." Right, as if that comment could make me feel better. I'm still furious that my teeth have so disappointed me.
Speaking of Elijah, today was his temple volunteering day, and I didn't see him till later tonight after 10 p.m. When I was driving back from the dentist this afternoon, I was really missing him and I wanted to vent my bad news concerning my teeth. As I was thinking of Elijah, this song came up, and although it's not something Elijah would listen to himself, or that represents my love for Elijah, it totally felt like a song that described my feelings at that moment. So, here is to closing this very lengthy and talkative post with some music from Lady Antebellum:
Anyways, this morning I was looking forward to being the first dropping the kids off at Pre-K. I did all the usual things, and then I got in the shower. I have a clock that I keep in the bathroom. That clock helps me measure the time I spend in the bathroom getting ready. I made a mental note of the time before getting in the shower, and then proceed to take a nice and long one. When I get out and enter my room, I notice my bedroom clock didn't match with that of the bathroom. I was way late. I freaked out. Charlton must have messed up my bathroom clock while playing with it this morning. So, here I was all set on being on time, and something like that happens. I know the Lord has said that he will make weak things strong, and I believe this otherwise I wouldn't even try being better on my time issue. However, I'm just glad there will be no time in heaven.
I took my car to rotate its tires today at Sam's. We purchased the tires from there some time ago, and their policy states that because of that we get the rotations always for free. So, I dropped the car off at the tire center, and then took Charlton and did some shopping meanwhile. Do you have the weakness I sport every time I visit Sam's or Costco, which is that regardless of having a list with me, I will succeed its limits and get stuff that weren't even in my mind let alone in my list? Today, I was determined to just follow the list, but to no avail. I saw something that my kids would use and got, and then I saw the excellent prize of grapes and thought that we always need more fruit. After that, I got some snacks for the children, and the list of purchases went on. I had only a few items on my actual list, but the purchasing list was double that. I thought why does this happen and why can't I find the discipline to follow my own rules. I came up with a few answers. First, I must be weak by nature. Some people are spenders and some are frugals. I'm glad I married someone who knows how to manage money and help me with this weakness. Secondly, my list needs to be more specific. I had a friend in Virginia that had a list for all family departments, such as clothes, school items, food, books, entertainment, household, and a few others. She would keep each list on the fridge, and when she went shopping she would take the master list with her. She knew exactly what she needed for that week, and never went over her budget. My list consists of food items and household; the rest is being reminded as I pass the isles by. Thirdly, buying things for me or for others is like therapy, and don't ask me why I need therapy because I don't even know it myself, but it seems buying makes me happy. I had another friend in Virginia that had solved this problem. She would give herself a monthly allowance, not much but enough for her to make a nice purchase for herself that month. She kept at her budget during her weekly shoppings, and then when she felt she wanted to spend something on herself, she would just leave the kids with her husband and shop on her own. I might need to do just that. Elijah suggested I should also pray to overcome this weakness. He promised me that if I did that Heavenly Father will bless me with a tempered hand in spending. Great advice, but the question rises: Do I really want to be cured from this weakness?
After Sam's, I had a few minutes between James' preschool and picking up my mom, so I went to see my friend Janelle to help me jump start on my profile on Mormon.org. I had never been on this site, and it seems easy to actually get your profile done, but I have yet to find time to write something about me. We were reading and watching some of the other profiles and I was touched by the amazing lives that the gospel help us have. With faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ and a knowledge of God's love for us, we can truly achieve anything and overcome everything. This site showed some amazing and humble people throughout the world trying to live a life worthy of a disciple of Christ. I'm humbly grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Later, after I had picked up my mom from her English class and my kids from their school, I got ready to go to the dentist. I fed everybody, put Charlton for a short late afternoon nap, and then headed toward my dentist. I hadn't been to the dentist since November 2009; my teeth needed checking and cleaning. As I was driving, I was wondering what had made me procrastinate for so long in making a dentist appointment. The more I thought about it, the more I was convinced that subconsciously I didn't want to. I had had an unpleasant experience the last time I had been at the dentist. I had had a cleaning and a check-up, and both the hygienist and the dentist hadn't been very gracious in telling me about my teeth. I told Elijah that because they hadn't been Americans, they knew not what bed side manners were, and of course Elijah dismissed it, but I still remain strong in that belief. I like a doctor or dentist that is open and clear about what ails me, but at the same time very gracious and kind in how he presents it. I didn't even have any hard core damage with my teeth then, but these two dentists found whatever I had to be absolutely disastrous. So, you can imagine I wasn't very happy to visit the dentist again. And with good reasons. After 15 years of no cavities, this dentist found 7!!! Imagine that. I don't know if I really have that many cavities or he just wants to make money out of me, but at least he was kind and gracious when he stated the verdict. This hasn't made me very happy. Not only I hate dental work, but I hate paying for it. When I told Elijah that I might end up paying as much for my teeth as I would for a trip to Europe, he just shook his head and said "Let's just take care of our health and then our entertainment." Right, as if that comment could make me feel better. I'm still furious that my teeth have so disappointed me.
Speaking of Elijah, today was his temple volunteering day, and I didn't see him till later tonight after 10 p.m. When I was driving back from the dentist this afternoon, I was really missing him and I wanted to vent my bad news concerning my teeth. As I was thinking of Elijah, this song came up, and although it's not something Elijah would listen to himself, or that represents my love for Elijah, it totally felt like a song that described my feelings at that moment. So, here is to closing this very lengthy and talkative post with some music from Lady Antebellum:
Monday, March 28, 2011
Death Valley trip
Elijah and his friend, Gary, went on a motorcycle trip last week to Death Valley. Located along the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this desert is the driest and hottest spot in North America. Elijah made sure that they took this trip way before the hot weather scorched any living creature. They really had a great time motorcycling around curvy roads along the mountains. When they did hike, Elijah said that it was very cold with a strong wind lashing at them. The landscapes were very breathtaking and diverse, ranging from old and unique rock formations, to sand dunes, to volcanic crates. This desert supports more than 1000 native plants and is home to many aquatic animals found nowhere else.
Badwater Basin is known as the lowest point in North America and is very beautiful to behold
Elijah was excited to see the Harmony Borax Works, a very successful plant which started its shipments of borax used in cleansers in 1883. They would use a 20-mule team wagon to pull loads of borax and take them to railroads as shipments across the country. However, he was unexpectedly surprised to see something even more beautiful than a plant in the middle of the dessert, Scotty's Castle. "Death Valley Scotty" was a con man who had lied about having a gold mine in Death Valley and had profited from his lies by way of men from the East investing him. When Albert Johnson, who had been sponsoring Scotty's so called gold diggings, came to see what was going on, he understood Scotty's lies, but was so happy to be in the fresh air and to see such beautiful panoramas, that not only he forgave Scotty, but kept sending money afterward. With Johnson's money, Scotty built this lovely castle in the middle of nowhere that served as a refuge for any lonely and thirsty traveller that came along the way.
All in all, they seemed to have had a great trip, but I'm glad Elijah is back in my arms again.
Badwater Basin is known as the lowest point in North America and is very beautiful to behold
Elijah was excited to see the Harmony Borax Works, a very successful plant which started its shipments of borax used in cleansers in 1883. They would use a 20-mule team wagon to pull loads of borax and take them to railroads as shipments across the country. However, he was unexpectedly surprised to see something even more beautiful than a plant in the middle of the dessert, Scotty's Castle. "Death Valley Scotty" was a con man who had lied about having a gold mine in Death Valley and had profited from his lies by way of men from the East investing him. When Albert Johnson, who had been sponsoring Scotty's so called gold diggings, came to see what was going on, he understood Scotty's lies, but was so happy to be in the fresh air and to see such beautiful panoramas, that not only he forgave Scotty, but kept sending money afterward. With Johnson's money, Scotty built this lovely castle in the middle of nowhere that served as a refuge for any lonely and thirsty traveller that came along the way.
All in all, they seemed to have had a great trip, but I'm glad Elijah is back in my arms again.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
It's raining outside, but love is pouring inside
I love Saturdays, because I get to sleep in. Gillian tries very hard to occupy Charlton, but the older boys sometimes are caught up so much into their games, that they don't realize their pretend plays are loaded with noise, and the noise makes mom unhappy. This is what greeted me this morning, after woken up by some strange sounds all over the house.
Jefferson and James, dressed in navy uniforms with hand-made hats, had donned their Holiday Inn tapping shoes for Anchors Away navy boots, therefore instead of tapping, I was hearing marching sounds all over the house. (Don't you love their serious expression!)
As the day went on, Elijah was busy cooking lasagna, Gillian and I sat on our chairs by the fire and kept reading, while Jefferson and James were producing inventions by the minute (I'm sorry I didn't take any pictures of their fun experiments, but not only they were going too fast from one experiment to another, I also was glued to my chair and my book. That made it quiet impossible for me to get up). Charlton kept busy either by napping or by drinking his milk. In truth, if you were to see where Charlton was, you would always find him next to his brothers, (to their dismay, he was totalling their inventions), with his constant companion, his bottle.
For a few days now, Gillian has had a change of heart pertaining her grooming. I was taking care of my friend's daughter one evening, and just to make it fun for the girls, I rolled their hair with hot rollers, and polished their nails and toe nails. Since that day, Gillian has asked me to curl her hair almost every day. You see, Gillian doesn't care much how she looks, but I do. So, although I think I might regret this turn of events, I was momentarily happy. This afternoon she asked me to curl her hair again. Just looking at her gorgeous long hair made me want mine back, just for a little moment though.
I closed my day today by watching a three hour BBC production of Elisabeth Gaskell stories, called Cranford 2. I have the first part of Cranford miniseries, and I absolutely love it. I was a bit apprehensive when I first saw the first Cranford, thinking it was going to be just like the short novel with the same name, which wasn't very interesting. But it turned out the movie producers had intertwined a bunch of Elisabeth Gaskell stories into one, and they had done a fantastic job. As I started watching the second installment of Cranford, I was asking myself what more can they put into the series. I wasn't disappointed; I really loved watching it and enjoyed Judie Dench's and the rest of the cast's performance. I appreciated the issues they discussed of love lost and found, progress and traditions, and service and kindness. This was worth my time, and very delightful to watch.
How was your Saturday?
Gillian keeping Charlton quiet by reading him a book
Jefferson and James, dressed in navy uniforms with hand-made hats, had donned their Holiday Inn tapping shoes for Anchors Away navy boots, therefore instead of tapping, I was hearing marching sounds all over the house. (Don't you love their serious expression!)
As the day went on, Elijah was busy cooking lasagna, Gillian and I sat on our chairs by the fire and kept reading, while Jefferson and James were producing inventions by the minute (I'm sorry I didn't take any pictures of their fun experiments, but not only they were going too fast from one experiment to another, I also was glued to my chair and my book. That made it quiet impossible for me to get up). Charlton kept busy either by napping or by drinking his milk. In truth, if you were to see where Charlton was, you would always find him next to his brothers, (to their dismay, he was totalling their inventions), with his constant companion, his bottle.
For a few days now, Gillian has had a change of heart pertaining her grooming. I was taking care of my friend's daughter one evening, and just to make it fun for the girls, I rolled their hair with hot rollers, and polished their nails and toe nails. Since that day, Gillian has asked me to curl her hair almost every day. You see, Gillian doesn't care much how she looks, but I do. So, although I think I might regret this turn of events, I was momentarily happy. This afternoon she asked me to curl her hair again. Just looking at her gorgeous long hair made me want mine back, just for a little moment though.
I closed my day today by watching a three hour BBC production of Elisabeth Gaskell stories, called Cranford 2. I have the first part of Cranford miniseries, and I absolutely love it. I was a bit apprehensive when I first saw the first Cranford, thinking it was going to be just like the short novel with the same name, which wasn't very interesting. But it turned out the movie producers had intertwined a bunch of Elisabeth Gaskell stories into one, and they had done a fantastic job. As I started watching the second installment of Cranford, I was asking myself what more can they put into the series. I wasn't disappointed; I really loved watching it and enjoyed Judie Dench's and the rest of the cast's performance. I appreciated the issues they discussed of love lost and found, progress and traditions, and service and kindness. This was worth my time, and very delightful to watch.How was your Saturday?
Friday, March 25, 2011
Mattress shopping
Jefferson kept us awake all night, last night. He had a very bad ear ache, and couldn't sleep. I was exhausted with Thursdays being my busiest days, but I felt so sorry for Jefferson hurting so much. We gave him pain reliever, olive oil drops in the ear, and heating pad to keep his ear warm. The ache still persisted. I had to wake up Elijah so he could give him a blessing. After the blessing, I gave him some more medicine, and then put him down in the couch. As soon as I fell asleep again, I hear him throwing up while laying in my bed. My poor boy kept apologizing and went up straight to the bathroom to finish his business and clean up. I immediately grabbed towels and started cleaning our bed. Fortunately, there wasn't much throw-up on our actual bed, and after cleaning it all, Jefferson and I suited ourselves in the living room couch by the fire place. He felt better, and I was able to catch two hours of sleep without the need of smelling throw-up.
Jefferson had just christened our newly bought bed with his vomit. Not a very good beginning, especially after the many hours that it took us to find a suitable bed for us. Two weeks ago, we had gone to Sleep Train to check out mattresses. Let me just say, we spend a good hour trying the mattresses and writing down what we liked about them. I can't believe how many different brands and kinds of mattresses there are out there. Last Saturday, Elijah and I began our pilgrimage after breakfast, and our bodies felt mattresses at Sears, Macy's, JcPenny's, Mancini's, back to Macy's, and then one last time to Sleep Train. That was our last stop in search for the perfect fit. In between, we stopped for lunch at an Italian restaurant, and for hot chocolate at Barnes & Noble after purchasing the mattress that was most suitable for our bodies. By the time we got home, it was time for dinner. Good thing that the shopping involved laying down for minutes at a time, otherwise wandering for five hours wouldn't have been much fun. Not that mattress shopping for five hours was any fun in itself, but being with my husband was.
Jefferson is feeling much better, and our fortress, as Gillian calls our bed, doesn't smell... you know, like puke. However, I'm still finding it very hard to sleep in it. It needs breaking in for at least three to six weeks. Maybe I'll just sleep in the couch by the fireplace, while Elijah does the job for me. That, or let the kids jump up and down till it feels just right.
Jefferson had just christened our newly bought bed with his vomit. Not a very good beginning, especially after the many hours that it took us to find a suitable bed for us. Two weeks ago, we had gone to Sleep Train to check out mattresses. Let me just say, we spend a good hour trying the mattresses and writing down what we liked about them. I can't believe how many different brands and kinds of mattresses there are out there. Last Saturday, Elijah and I began our pilgrimage after breakfast, and our bodies felt mattresses at Sears, Macy's, JcPenny's, Mancini's, back to Macy's, and then one last time to Sleep Train. That was our last stop in search for the perfect fit. In between, we stopped for lunch at an Italian restaurant, and for hot chocolate at Barnes & Noble after purchasing the mattress that was most suitable for our bodies. By the time we got home, it was time for dinner. Good thing that the shopping involved laying down for minutes at a time, otherwise wandering for five hours wouldn't have been much fun. Not that mattress shopping for five hours was any fun in itself, but being with my husband was.
Jefferson is feeling much better, and our fortress, as Gillian calls our bed, doesn't smell... you know, like puke. However, I'm still finding it very hard to sleep in it. It needs breaking in for at least three to six weeks. Maybe I'll just sleep in the couch by the fireplace, while Elijah does the job for me. That, or let the kids jump up and down till it feels just right.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
What's up with the bathroom today?
As mothers, we rarely indulge ourselves. However, I do just that every morning when I take my shower. I give my kids books to read, I lock my door, and then I take a long and uninterrupted shower. On occasion, I might have music or scriptures playing in the background, but mostly I just cherish this time to think. It seems that throughout my very long day that starts at seven in the morning and ends regularly after midnight, I rarely find myself alone with my thoughts. Thus, I take advantage of my time I share in the shower. I enjoy thinking about life, pondering about issues, and planning action on solving situations. I feel like I'm a genius coming up with so many ideas and plans. I try so very hard to catalog all those thoughts into corners of my mind so I won't forget them when I'm out of the bathroom. Most of those decisions made while showering have really been helpful in my daily life.
This is the first home in which we don't have a master bathroom. I really dislike this fact. I don't like it that my children use it as well, although they do have their own upstairs. Cleaning the bathroom every week doesn't give me much cheer; keeping it clean throughout the week is what makes me happy. How can you keep a bathroom frequented by kids clean each day? The other day, while Elijah and I were on a date, Charlton had enjoyed powdering the bathroom floor with my rouge, Gillian had spit toothpaste all over the sink, and the boys had overflown the toilet with too much paper. Today, I had them clean it, and although they did a good job, it wasn't up to my standard. So, when they left to play, I cleaned it again. At least, I can enjoy its cleanliness and sparkle even for a moment!
I was again in the bathroom tonight taking my time dying my hair. I have gray hair every where in my head, but there is one spot right up front that makes me absolutely irate. Elijah thinks it makes me look distinguished and wishes I didn't dye my hair. I used to have an old teacher that had this big chunk of gray hair while the rest of his head was darker. I hated that teacher, and I never thought that big blob of gray hair made him look distinguished. On the contrary, I thought he looked like Count Dracula. In short, I don't think I'm ready to look like Count Dracula's sister. The interesting fact is that I actually like ladies with gray hair. But most of them are old, and they sort of fit the graceful aging of womanhood. I'm not old just yet, so I dye my hair.
While dying my hair, I was thinking how well I was doing in coloring it like a pro. And then, my pride was hurt; I got paint all over my skin. I hate failure and mediocrity, and I was seeing a very mediocre job right on its face. While trying to clean the skin with a cloth dabbed in alcohol, I kept thinking what Elijah had told me the night before. I had said something about my impatience and unhappiness that I encounter when I have to deal with people with low expectations and a mediocre attitude toward life. I remember saying to Elijah that I couldn't understand how people didn't give it all, but were satisfied with just a little effort or a short vision. He didn't criticize me for being such a snob, but instead just shared his feelings that we should see people just like the Savior would, with love and compassion, and always trying to find good in them. As I looked at my face and hair in the mirror, I was trying very hard to be compassionate toward me. I know I'm very demanding on myself; I like it and works well for my personality. I get mad at myself when I don't do an excellent job, even when it comes to just dying some dumb hair. But tonight, I tried to train myself into thinking something good about this whole ordeal. Well, as I was looking at the dark blotches on my skin, the paint on the bathroom door and in the sink, and on my shirt I was wearing, the only thing that came to mind was "Wow, I had dyed my hair all by myself withing 15 minutes and with a house full of kids." That's a miracle, albeit with a few little glitches.
As I was washing my hair, I was thinking about my day, and it occurred to me that just that day, after I had complained to Elijah about mediocrity, I had realized that I had completely failed as a mom in the health department. I called myself very mediocre. We have been in California for over a year, and I had just made an appointment with the dentist only this morning. A smile spread on my face as I realized that I wasn't that perfect after all. Just the other day, I laughed at myself for forgetting to give my friend her birthday present while her present rested on my dresser for days. And let us not forget the time when I spaced out picking up James from my friend's house.
I dried my hair with the towel, and then looked at the mirror. Not all the blotches were gone, but the hair looked good. No one is perfect, after all. We each have to work on our dark spots.
This is the first home in which we don't have a master bathroom. I really dislike this fact. I don't like it that my children use it as well, although they do have their own upstairs. Cleaning the bathroom every week doesn't give me much cheer; keeping it clean throughout the week is what makes me happy. How can you keep a bathroom frequented by kids clean each day? The other day, while Elijah and I were on a date, Charlton had enjoyed powdering the bathroom floor with my rouge, Gillian had spit toothpaste all over the sink, and the boys had overflown the toilet with too much paper. Today, I had them clean it, and although they did a good job, it wasn't up to my standard. So, when they left to play, I cleaned it again. At least, I can enjoy its cleanliness and sparkle even for a moment!
I was again in the bathroom tonight taking my time dying my hair. I have gray hair every where in my head, but there is one spot right up front that makes me absolutely irate. Elijah thinks it makes me look distinguished and wishes I didn't dye my hair. I used to have an old teacher that had this big chunk of gray hair while the rest of his head was darker. I hated that teacher, and I never thought that big blob of gray hair made him look distinguished. On the contrary, I thought he looked like Count Dracula. In short, I don't think I'm ready to look like Count Dracula's sister. The interesting fact is that I actually like ladies with gray hair. But most of them are old, and they sort of fit the graceful aging of womanhood. I'm not old just yet, so I dye my hair.
While dying my hair, I was thinking how well I was doing in coloring it like a pro. And then, my pride was hurt; I got paint all over my skin. I hate failure and mediocrity, and I was seeing a very mediocre job right on its face. While trying to clean the skin with a cloth dabbed in alcohol, I kept thinking what Elijah had told me the night before. I had said something about my impatience and unhappiness that I encounter when I have to deal with people with low expectations and a mediocre attitude toward life. I remember saying to Elijah that I couldn't understand how people didn't give it all, but were satisfied with just a little effort or a short vision. He didn't criticize me for being such a snob, but instead just shared his feelings that we should see people just like the Savior would, with love and compassion, and always trying to find good in them. As I looked at my face and hair in the mirror, I was trying very hard to be compassionate toward me. I know I'm very demanding on myself; I like it and works well for my personality. I get mad at myself when I don't do an excellent job, even when it comes to just dying some dumb hair. But tonight, I tried to train myself into thinking something good about this whole ordeal. Well, as I was looking at the dark blotches on my skin, the paint on the bathroom door and in the sink, and on my shirt I was wearing, the only thing that came to mind was "Wow, I had dyed my hair all by myself withing 15 minutes and with a house full of kids." That's a miracle, albeit with a few little glitches.
As I was washing my hair, I was thinking about my day, and it occurred to me that just that day, after I had complained to Elijah about mediocrity, I had realized that I had completely failed as a mom in the health department. I called myself very mediocre. We have been in California for over a year, and I had just made an appointment with the dentist only this morning. A smile spread on my face as I realized that I wasn't that perfect after all. Just the other day, I laughed at myself for forgetting to give my friend her birthday present while her present rested on my dresser for days. And let us not forget the time when I spaced out picking up James from my friend's house.
I dried my hair with the towel, and then looked at the mirror. Not all the blotches were gone, but the hair looked good. No one is perfect, after all. We each have to work on our dark spots.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Friday has to be a rest day...
Elijah left early Tuesday morning on a three day motorcycle trip to Death Valley. When he isn't home, I'm out of balance. I accomplish a lot of things, but I also forget to eat, sleep, and find a balance in my daily activities. I'm grateful to Elijah for helping me keep my feet in the ground. I've missed him a lot, and I'm happy he is back. Here is the schedule for when he was gone (I already wrote about Tuesday, so here is what I did on Wednesday and Thursday):
WEDNESDAY
7:00 a.m. I woke up in a hurry. I had volunteered to make lunch for the three teachers of Cornerstone charter school that my older kids are part of, and part of that lunch was fresh bread. I had planned to wake up earlier to put all the ingredients in the bread machine, but I stayed up too late the night before. It takes about four hours for the bread to be ready. I was cutting it too tight; the lunch had to be ready by 11:30. Why stress myself and make fresh bread instead of buying some yummy French bread at the store? Because I expect perfection in all things, or at least that's what I tell myself every day. Who knows why I really do it!
7:30 - 8:30 Got the children ready and took them to school.
8:30 - 8:50 Took a shower and got ready myself.
8:50 - 9:30 Took Charlton to the doctor for his vaccines. He got five shots today, and my poor boy was hurting. He kept saying "ou" the whole time I was driving home. I have to say he is a bit dramatic and doesn't like any kind of pain, so part of it was that he was just being a wimp. He gets that from his mom, no doubt. I gave him so Motrin, a bottle of milk, a few kisses and laid him down for a nap.
9:30 - 10:30 Prepared the soup for the teacher's lunch. My mother makes this delicious vegetable soup that is to die for, and I was trying to help her with the intention of learning how to cook it myself. She doesn't have a set recipe. Don't you hate it when our moms cook by using a pinch of that and a handful of this, without anything written down. One of my intentions for when my mom arrived here was to keep a recipe book with all of her fabulous recipes. Alas, I have no time as it is.
11:00 - 12:20 The bread was already cooked and was cooling, but I didn't have time for the cooling period, so I grabbed the bread burning my fingers, wrapped it in a big napkin, and put in the delivery bag. I washed the bread machine pan and then proceeded to put some more ingredients in it. I was making some dinner for a friend of mine who just had a baby. I dropped lunch (bread and soup) to one of the teachers' classroom. Another parent was bringing salad and dessert. I, then, decided to take James to playgroup. He really needed some real playing instead of running around helping mom with her chores.
12:20 - 1:20 Dropped mom at school. Picked up my older children from school. Early dismissal today.
1:20 - 2:45 Prepared snack, helped with homework, prepared dinner for my friend, picked up mom from school.
3:00 - 4:30 Computer time for the kids and Costco shopping for me with mom watching the kids. I dropped dinner at my friend's house, with my fifth fresh loaf of bread for the week enclosed in the bag.
4:30 - 5:00 I had the kids go outside and play. They needed some fresh air, and I needed some relaxing. I should have read to them, and I absolutely felt guilty while laying down and trying to catch some sleep for a few minutes. I'm actually grateful for guilt feelings, because they make me see reality in the eye and help me have the determination to make a change.
5:00 - 5:30 I read to my children, and although it wasn't for long, I enjoyed having them around me.
5:30 - 6:00 We had a light dinner, since the children had been snacking on and off on bagels, grapes, and bread with nutella.
6:00 - 8:30 The children and I did a lot of cleaning up. I know it's gross to admit it, but since my past two Mondays (my cleaning days) had been very busy with other things (sightseeing and trying to finish an awesome book), the bathrooms were not in a very good shape. I had them clean their rooms,vacuum, mop and especially wash their walls. I busied myself with the bathrooms, and then finished the mopping. Jefferson, who was doing the mopping, was getting upset that Gillian was getting to play with Charlton and he was working. I let them all play in Gillian's room, while I put the finishing touches to a very nice and clean house.
8:30 Charlton was showing me the microwave, a certain sign that he was ready to get some milk and go to bed. I did just that.
8:30 - 9:00 This is late for my children to stay up, but they notified me they were hungry. We all sat down for a taste of grilled sandwiches, homemade french fries, and yummy soup. Work had made us all hungry. After our late dinner, we did scripture, song, and prayer, and they went straight to bed.
9:00 - 10:00 I checked and wrote emails; read news, did laundry.
10:00 - 12:00 I watched "Someone like you" with Ashley Judd and Hugh Jackman. I really enjoyed it.
12:00 I read, and then fell asleep while reading with the lamp on. I woke up in the middle of the night to turn it off.
THURSDAY
8:20 - 9:20 I had turned the alarm off, and we were all late for school and in starting our day. I got all of the children ready, I gave them all breakfast in the car, and dropped the older children off to school, later realizing that I hadn't brushed Jefferson's hair and hadn't checked if they had brushed their teeth. Oh, well. I hurried to pick up Zoe and drop James and Zoe to their Pre-K, late.
9:20 - 10:00 Helped Charlton get comfortable by changing his diaper, feeding him breakfast, filling his bottle, and then putting him down for a nap. I then proceeded to take a quick shower and got ready for my day.
10:00 - 11:30 Volunteered at Gillian's class. I love the twinkle in Gillian's eyes when she sees me enter her classroom. All that rush is worth it just to see her happy.
11:30 - 12:30 Visiting Teaching.
I have a very strong testimony of Visiting Teaching. When I was pregnant with Gillian, we were living in Utah and attended a young married couples ward. Although Elijah and I enjoyed our association with most of them, we never felt we actually fit. We both came from different cultures, and had already seen and experienced way more than any of these couples would probably see in their lifetime. And then, I was assigned a new Visiting Teacher. She was older than most of us, already had two children and was staying home with them, while neither of us had any children, and we were all working or going to school, or both. But what was special about this friend was the fact that she was so humble and kind. Her dedication in visiting me wasn't very different from other visiting teachers I have had, but her sincerity in loving me taught me lessons for the rest of my life. I'm grateful to this sweet woman for sharing her testimony with me through her humility, kindness, and willingness.
It was a period that I was just learning the ways of the church; I had a testimony and I had been in a mission, but I had never been in a family ward or growing up in the church. Her example helped build my testimony. I grew up, however, with endless examples of generosity, service, kindness, and with a desire and willingness to lift others up. I intertwined these qualities with my calling as a Visiting Teacher. I may have not always been perfect in visiting my friends, but I've always prayed and followed through with the inspirations I received. I've also tried to do more than it is required, and in the process try to stretch myself. Truly loving and showing kindness to all the ladies I've visit taught has been rewarding in many levels. I've learned I can do more than I think I can; I've felt love for even those women I thought I couldn't possibly enjoy being around; I've seen the hand of the Lord in the many inspirations I've received (to have seen miracles first hand is truly priceless); and I have made ever lasting friendships that I cherish deeply. My best friend in Virginia was one of my Visiting Teachers. I love her and think of her quite often. She is one of those friends that come once in a lifetime, who understand you without talking and judging, and with whom you feel so very comfortable asking and sharing anything. Because I'm an optimist by nature, every time I move somewhere, I pray I will find one of those friends again.
Anyways, as a result of the many special experiences as a Visiting Teacher or someone who has been visit taught by others, I take this calling very seriously. And along with service, I try to enjoy my visits. Today, I had a good conversation with the lady I visit teach. We talked about the blessings of the gospel, motherhood, and the power of testimony. It's refreshing to find women with strong testimonies, true commitment to motherhood and an understanding of the gospel. Thank you, Janelle, for your great example and the great time we had discussing.
12:30 - 1:40 Picked up the daughter of my other visiting teaching friend for a play date with James. We ate some lunch after that.
1:40 - 3:00 I took Sarah and James to the playground, after realizing that Sarah's fairy game didn't quite match with James' cowboy fights. Maybe playground equipments would entertain them both.
3:00 - 4:30 Picked up my older children, and then took them to the playground, after having to hear all of the complains about how James gets to do all the fun stuff.
4:30 - 5:30 Took Gillian to piano, dropped Sarah off at her house, picked up Gillian from piano, and then dropped books at the library.
5:30 - 7:30 ate dinner, helped with homework, shower for Gillian, and haircuts and shower for the boys.
I've been thinking of some abilities that I have that are practical. Besides teaching my children the gospel, basics of math and writing, reading to them, teaching them to love music and art, and many other things that deal with teaching, I feel I have very few other practical skills. Some of them are writing in my blog and keeping a record for my family, taking pictures, fashion tips, cooking, cleaning, and I don't know what else. I want to learn how to garden, make quilts and cut hair. I know these are my latest ideas, and they will change, I bet, as time will go by. But for now, I thought I would start with cutting hair, and what easier way than to try it on your children. Maybe later I will go to a beauty school, but for now, I'll practice on my boys.
7:30 - 8:30 Elijah returned home from his trip and we were all overjoyed. He shared his love, stories, and souvenirs. Really, what souvenirs can you bring back from Death Valley! Well, Elijah surprised us. He brought my mom Playing cards with pictures from Death Valley highlights (my mom loves to play cards, so he couldn't have brought more thoughtful gift than that); he brought me a book mark with a picture from Death Valley (I hate trinkets, and I love to read, perfect gift for me); and he brought the kids something that they loved with a real souvenir from Death Valley in it: Scorpion lollipops. Disgusting, right? Well, the kids thought it was an awesome gift.
These past three days were filled with service,volunteering, reading, cleaning, playing, cooking, visiting, driving from here to there, and lots more. It's only the middle of the week and lots of work and service has been accomplished. However, when I look back through my days, the things that I remember the most are the two hours I spent reading to James, or the time I played Scrabble with Jefferson, or the sweet conversation I had with Gillian talking about dating, kissing, college, and following the Holy Ghost, all in one sitting. Let's hope we'll do more of these kind of things during the week-end.
WEDNESDAY
7:00 a.m. I woke up in a hurry. I had volunteered to make lunch for the three teachers of Cornerstone charter school that my older kids are part of, and part of that lunch was fresh bread. I had planned to wake up earlier to put all the ingredients in the bread machine, but I stayed up too late the night before. It takes about four hours for the bread to be ready. I was cutting it too tight; the lunch had to be ready by 11:30. Why stress myself and make fresh bread instead of buying some yummy French bread at the store? Because I expect perfection in all things, or at least that's what I tell myself every day. Who knows why I really do it!
7:30 - 8:30 Got the children ready and took them to school.
8:30 - 8:50 Took a shower and got ready myself.
8:50 - 9:30 Took Charlton to the doctor for his vaccines. He got five shots today, and my poor boy was hurting. He kept saying "ou" the whole time I was driving home. I have to say he is a bit dramatic and doesn't like any kind of pain, so part of it was that he was just being a wimp. He gets that from his mom, no doubt. I gave him so Motrin, a bottle of milk, a few kisses and laid him down for a nap.
9:30 - 10:30 Prepared the soup for the teacher's lunch. My mother makes this delicious vegetable soup that is to die for, and I was trying to help her with the intention of learning how to cook it myself. She doesn't have a set recipe. Don't you hate it when our moms cook by using a pinch of that and a handful of this, without anything written down. One of my intentions for when my mom arrived here was to keep a recipe book with all of her fabulous recipes. Alas, I have no time as it is.
11:00 - 12:20 The bread was already cooked and was cooling, but I didn't have time for the cooling period, so I grabbed the bread burning my fingers, wrapped it in a big napkin, and put in the delivery bag. I washed the bread machine pan and then proceeded to put some more ingredients in it. I was making some dinner for a friend of mine who just had a baby. I dropped lunch (bread and soup) to one of the teachers' classroom. Another parent was bringing salad and dessert. I, then, decided to take James to playgroup. He really needed some real playing instead of running around helping mom with her chores.
12:20 - 1:20 Dropped mom at school. Picked up my older children from school. Early dismissal today.
1:20 - 2:45 Prepared snack, helped with homework, prepared dinner for my friend, picked up mom from school.
3:00 - 4:30 Computer time for the kids and Costco shopping for me with mom watching the kids. I dropped dinner at my friend's house, with my fifth fresh loaf of bread for the week enclosed in the bag.
4:30 - 5:00 I had the kids go outside and play. They needed some fresh air, and I needed some relaxing. I should have read to them, and I absolutely felt guilty while laying down and trying to catch some sleep for a few minutes. I'm actually grateful for guilt feelings, because they make me see reality in the eye and help me have the determination to make a change.
5:00 - 5:30 I read to my children, and although it wasn't for long, I enjoyed having them around me.
5:30 - 6:00 We had a light dinner, since the children had been snacking on and off on bagels, grapes, and bread with nutella.
6:00 - 8:30 The children and I did a lot of cleaning up. I know it's gross to admit it, but since my past two Mondays (my cleaning days) had been very busy with other things (sightseeing and trying to finish an awesome book), the bathrooms were not in a very good shape. I had them clean their rooms,vacuum, mop and especially wash their walls. I busied myself with the bathrooms, and then finished the mopping. Jefferson, who was doing the mopping, was getting upset that Gillian was getting to play with Charlton and he was working. I let them all play in Gillian's room, while I put the finishing touches to a very nice and clean house.
8:30 Charlton was showing me the microwave, a certain sign that he was ready to get some milk and go to bed. I did just that.
8:30 - 9:00 This is late for my children to stay up, but they notified me they were hungry. We all sat down for a taste of grilled sandwiches, homemade french fries, and yummy soup. Work had made us all hungry. After our late dinner, we did scripture, song, and prayer, and they went straight to bed.
9:00 - 10:00 I checked and wrote emails; read news, did laundry.
10:00 - 12:00 I watched "Someone like you" with Ashley Judd and Hugh Jackman. I really enjoyed it.
12:00 I read, and then fell asleep while reading with the lamp on. I woke up in the middle of the night to turn it off.
THURSDAY
8:20 - 9:20 I had turned the alarm off, and we were all late for school and in starting our day. I got all of the children ready, I gave them all breakfast in the car, and dropped the older children off to school, later realizing that I hadn't brushed Jefferson's hair and hadn't checked if they had brushed their teeth. Oh, well. I hurried to pick up Zoe and drop James and Zoe to their Pre-K, late.
9:20 - 10:00 Helped Charlton get comfortable by changing his diaper, feeding him breakfast, filling his bottle, and then putting him down for a nap. I then proceeded to take a quick shower and got ready for my day.
10:00 - 11:30 Volunteered at Gillian's class. I love the twinkle in Gillian's eyes when she sees me enter her classroom. All that rush is worth it just to see her happy.
11:30 - 12:30 Visiting Teaching.
I have a very strong testimony of Visiting Teaching. When I was pregnant with Gillian, we were living in Utah and attended a young married couples ward. Although Elijah and I enjoyed our association with most of them, we never felt we actually fit. We both came from different cultures, and had already seen and experienced way more than any of these couples would probably see in their lifetime. And then, I was assigned a new Visiting Teacher. She was older than most of us, already had two children and was staying home with them, while neither of us had any children, and we were all working or going to school, or both. But what was special about this friend was the fact that she was so humble and kind. Her dedication in visiting me wasn't very different from other visiting teachers I have had, but her sincerity in loving me taught me lessons for the rest of my life. I'm grateful to this sweet woman for sharing her testimony with me through her humility, kindness, and willingness.
It was a period that I was just learning the ways of the church; I had a testimony and I had been in a mission, but I had never been in a family ward or growing up in the church. Her example helped build my testimony. I grew up, however, with endless examples of generosity, service, kindness, and with a desire and willingness to lift others up. I intertwined these qualities with my calling as a Visiting Teacher. I may have not always been perfect in visiting my friends, but I've always prayed and followed through with the inspirations I received. I've also tried to do more than it is required, and in the process try to stretch myself. Truly loving and showing kindness to all the ladies I've visit taught has been rewarding in many levels. I've learned I can do more than I think I can; I've felt love for even those women I thought I couldn't possibly enjoy being around; I've seen the hand of the Lord in the many inspirations I've received (to have seen miracles first hand is truly priceless); and I have made ever lasting friendships that I cherish deeply. My best friend in Virginia was one of my Visiting Teachers. I love her and think of her quite often. She is one of those friends that come once in a lifetime, who understand you without talking and judging, and with whom you feel so very comfortable asking and sharing anything. Because I'm an optimist by nature, every time I move somewhere, I pray I will find one of those friends again.
Anyways, as a result of the many special experiences as a Visiting Teacher or someone who has been visit taught by others, I take this calling very seriously. And along with service, I try to enjoy my visits. Today, I had a good conversation with the lady I visit teach. We talked about the blessings of the gospel, motherhood, and the power of testimony. It's refreshing to find women with strong testimonies, true commitment to motherhood and an understanding of the gospel. Thank you, Janelle, for your great example and the great time we had discussing.
12:30 - 1:40 Picked up the daughter of my other visiting teaching friend for a play date with James. We ate some lunch after that.
1:40 - 3:00 I took Sarah and James to the playground, after realizing that Sarah's fairy game didn't quite match with James' cowboy fights. Maybe playground equipments would entertain them both.
3:00 - 4:30 Picked up my older children, and then took them to the playground, after having to hear all of the complains about how James gets to do all the fun stuff.4:30 - 5:30 Took Gillian to piano, dropped Sarah off at her house, picked up Gillian from piano, and then dropped books at the library.
5:30 - 7:30 ate dinner, helped with homework, shower for Gillian, and haircuts and shower for the boys.
I've been thinking of some abilities that I have that are practical. Besides teaching my children the gospel, basics of math and writing, reading to them, teaching them to love music and art, and many other things that deal with teaching, I feel I have very few other practical skills. Some of them are writing in my blog and keeping a record for my family, taking pictures, fashion tips, cooking, cleaning, and I don't know what else. I want to learn how to garden, make quilts and cut hair. I know these are my latest ideas, and they will change, I bet, as time will go by. But for now, I thought I would start with cutting hair, and what easier way than to try it on your children. Maybe later I will go to a beauty school, but for now, I'll practice on my boys.
7:30 - 8:30 Elijah returned home from his trip and we were all overjoyed. He shared his love, stories, and souvenirs. Really, what souvenirs can you bring back from Death Valley! Well, Elijah surprised us. He brought my mom Playing cards with pictures from Death Valley highlights (my mom loves to play cards, so he couldn't have brought more thoughtful gift than that); he brought me a book mark with a picture from Death Valley (I hate trinkets, and I love to read, perfect gift for me); and he brought the kids something that they loved with a real souvenir from Death Valley in it: Scorpion lollipops. Disgusting, right? Well, the kids thought it was an awesome gift.
These past three days were filled with service,volunteering, reading, cleaning, playing, cooking, visiting, driving from here to there, and lots more. It's only the middle of the week and lots of work and service has been accomplished. However, when I look back through my days, the things that I remember the most are the two hours I spent reading to James, or the time I played Scrabble with Jefferson, or the sweet conversation I had with Gillian talking about dating, kissing, college, and following the Holy Ghost, all in one sitting. Let's hope we'll do more of these kind of things during the week-end.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Beware the ides of March!
Shakespeare's language has always fascinated me. I'm amazed at his wit, his wealth of words, his possession of grammar, and his craftsmanship for double meaning. Furthermore, there isn't another author as much quoted as is Shakespeare. His poetic way of expressing thoughts and ideas make him immortal.
I fell in love with Shakespeare when I was nine. I read him in Albanian. I'm to this day grateful to those amazing translators who tried very hard to stay true to Shakespeare's individuality of writing. After studying English for a few years, I tempted to read his plays in his own original language, unabridged and not suited for easy reading. I wanted Shakespeare in his greatness; I wanted to read his plays the way there were meant to be read. I was hooked for life. I memorized many sayings, but my first real monologue out of Shakespeare's plays was Mark Anthony's speech at Julius Caesar's funeral. Since today is March 15th, the day that Julius Caesar died, I thought I would share with you that particular piece:
I fell in love with Shakespeare when I was nine. I read him in Albanian. I'm to this day grateful to those amazing translators who tried very hard to stay true to Shakespeare's individuality of writing. After studying English for a few years, I tempted to read his plays in his own original language, unabridged and not suited for easy reading. I wanted Shakespeare in his greatness; I wanted to read his plays the way there were meant to be read. I was hooked for life. I memorized many sayings, but my first real monologue out of Shakespeare's plays was Mark Anthony's speech at Julius Caesar's funeral. Since today is March 15th, the day that Julius Caesar died, I thought I would share with you that particular piece:
William Shakespeare - Friends, Romans, countrymen (from Julius Caesar 3/2)
Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears;
I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.
The evil that men do lives after them;
The good is oft interred with their bones;
So let it be with Caesar. The noble Brutus
Hath told you Caesar was ambitious:
If it were so, it was a grievous fault,
And grievously hath Caesar answer'd it.
Here, under leave of Brutus and the rest -
For Brutus is an honourable man;
So are they all, all honourable men -
Come I to speak in Caesar's funeral.
He was my friend, faithful and just to me:
But Brutus says he was ambitious;
And Brutus is an honourable man.
He hath brought many captives home to Rome
Whose ransoms did the general coffers fill:
Did this in Caesar seem ambitious?
When that the poor have cried, Caesar hath wept:
Ambition should be made of sterner stuff:
Yet Brutus says he was ambitious;
And Brutus is an honourable man.
You all did see that on the Lupercal
I thrice presented him a kingly crown,
Which he did thrice refuse: was this ambition?
Yet Brutus says he was ambitious;
And, sure, he is an honourable man.
I speak not to disprove what Brutus spoke,
But here I am to speak what I do know.
You all did love him once, not without cause:
What cause withholds you then, to mourn for him?
O judgment! thou art fled to brutish beasts,
And men have lost their reason. Bear with me;
My heart is in the coffin there with Caesar,
And I must pause till it come back to me.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
I want my reading-all-day Saturday back!
I longingly remember some long ago Saturdays when I would just sit down in my armchair by the fire and read for the whole day. The children would play outside or in their rooms, Elijah would be doing his own chores, and Charlton would be napping, eating or playing with his siblings. That is my favorite way to enjoy a book, by taking your time and reading it uninterrupted.
Well, recently, my Saturdays have been filled with taking my children on dates (my own doing), taking my mom out (her doing), grocery shopping (mom's cooking everyday, so we need more food than usual), friends outings (lots of birthdays and fun celebrations), and more dates with my man (the most desirable part of the day). I've tried to simplify it, but I can't seem to find a way. So, instead, I've just continued to enjoy them with all of their busyness. I'm still trying to figure out a day for my all-day-reading idea.
Today, we started out by attending the library. As soon as we entered the establishment, everyone went every each way, with me and Charlton heading toward the hold area, mom gluing herself at the movie area, James sitting himself comfortably at the little kids area, Gillian hunting Nancy Drew and Star Wars books, and Jefferson taking a tour through his favorite areas of history, science and biographies. This time, his library bag contained an interesting collection of DK books:
I didn't think you were allowed to check out these many DK Eyewitness books! I still don't think it's fair to the other kids for one kid to check out all of them, or at least what Jefferson's eye could catch. My kids love these books. They have plenty of pictures, a lot of small print and big print explanations, and a bunch of facts. This is the area that Jefferson finds it the most fascinating. He kept sharing with me tonight a myriad of facts as he was reading them. That's another good thing about these books; the children don't require your attention while reading them. They are as satisfying to James, who doesn't know how to read, but can enjoy the pictures and the CD Roms, as they are to Jefferson, who loves to learn new things by reading and studying them. With these many Eyewitness books, I just might find that pocket of time to read on my own undisturbed.
After the library, I took the kids to a nearby park. It is absolutely heaven to have older children taking care of the baby. My mother and I sat on the bench basking under the sun, eating snacks, and talking, while all of my children enjoyed themselves playing together. There was a moment when I told Gillian to let James take Charlton down the slide instead of her, and my mom was surprised that I did that. I explained that I needed Gillian to train James in playing with Charlton at the playground, so he could take care of him when I was with friends and Gillian and Jefferson were at school. My mom was impressed at the forethought that goes into the life of a mom. Of course it does, otherwise I wouldn't be sitting there enjoying the sunshine as if I had no care in the world.
Did you notice James playing in the sand in his Fred Astaire outfit? Did Fred Astaire himself practiced in a suit? James must take this love for dressing up after my dad, who, although would change into his working clothes while working on cars, would travel to work everyday in his suit. Believe it or not, that is my favorite memory of my dad, always in a spotless suit and shiny shoes, an example of a man who took pride in how he looked and how he presented himself. To this day, that simple lesson of self respect in keeping oneself neat, clean and presentable guides my everyday life. Plus, my father knew how to dress as well, and his sense of style truly turned heads, for good. All three of my boys have something of my father when it comes to appearances. Jefferson is meticulous and likes order and neatness, James has a desire to look good, and Charlton is obsessed with being clean. And then comes Gillian, who changes her clothes five times a day, but whose sense of style I won't even discuss. At least, she likes to be clean; she throws every outfit she tries in the dirty clothes basket. Maybe that's just being lazy in not wanting to hang her clothes. I'm trying to be better with Gillian in keeping only the clothes I would like her to wear, instead of a pish-posh of items. Even then... oh well, she will learn. Hopefully.
After the park, Jefferson and I went on our date. This time, I accompanied Jefferson to his friend's birthday, and although I didn't spend much time with him, he was still happy to have me close by. His school friend had invited a bunch of them to celebrate his birthday at the Pump It Up playing facility. Jefferson had a fantastic time. Next time we go there, I'll take all of my children for a FHE activity.
When we got back, Gillian and James kept asking me when I was going to take them to our friend and neighbor, Sister Paul. She had promised to show them her bird feeders and bird houses, and maybe a few birds that attended her garden. We did see several Bluebirds while there , and the children did get to clean the bird baths as well as put food in the bird feeders. I need to learn how to plant and keep a garden full of flowers and birds. My kids would really enjoy it. Thank you Sister Paul for taking your time in showing my kids your garden.
After eating dinner, Elijah and I left the kids under my mother's care, and went to the movie theater. I was hoping this date would turn out better than the one last night. Since we have decided to take turns in planning our dates, I announced to Elijah earlier this week that for our date I wanted to go shopping for him. Last night, we visited several stores, but bought only two items for Elijah. Truly, men and women think very differently, but they can still communicate. When it comes to shopping, there is no understanding between the two sexes, and there is no similarities. To me shopping is such an enjoyable experience, and believe me if I go and visit many stores, it isn't because I haven't found what I have been looking for in the first one I went to, but because I want MORE. It was futile for Elijah to relay to me the fact that he didn't actually wanted to be there and that he had a different style from me. I couldn't comprehend why someone wouldn't want to shop, and do a lot of it as well. We came to an understanding that shopping together for clothes shouldn't be in the list of possible dates.
Anyways, I hoped the movie would be a good one, and Elijah and I would enjoy our evening. The movie that we went to see was called The Adjustment Bureau with Matt Damon and Emily Blunt playing the main characters and George Nolfi as the director. Does Fate or Free Will guide our destiny? Are we responsible enough to be entrusted with Free Will? Is it a right or a privilege? This theme drives the plot and makes the romance even more powerful. Using our free will to choose love above power, money, destiny in itself isn't a new idea, but the interpretation was wonderfully created. Definitely a good movie to watch. Both Elijah and I loved it. Not only it was entertaining, but it made you think and opened many doors for discussion. Needless to say, this was a better date than the one last night. Both were created by using our own free will. It seems we also have to remember that with free will come consequences and injury or comfort on others. It must have been a very hard thing for God to give us free will knowing we could either hurt or comfort ourselves or others. I seems, however, the only way for us to learn and grow. I won't take Elijah on a shopping spree next time. There. Lesson learned.
What was your favorite thing you did this week-end?
Well, recently, my Saturdays have been filled with taking my children on dates (my own doing), taking my mom out (her doing), grocery shopping (mom's cooking everyday, so we need more food than usual), friends outings (lots of birthdays and fun celebrations), and more dates with my man (the most desirable part of the day). I've tried to simplify it, but I can't seem to find a way. So, instead, I've just continued to enjoy them with all of their busyness. I'm still trying to figure out a day for my all-day-reading idea.
Today, we started out by attending the library. As soon as we entered the establishment, everyone went every each way, with me and Charlton heading toward the hold area, mom gluing herself at the movie area, James sitting himself comfortably at the little kids area, Gillian hunting Nancy Drew and Star Wars books, and Jefferson taking a tour through his favorite areas of history, science and biographies. This time, his library bag contained an interesting collection of DK books:
I didn't think you were allowed to check out these many DK Eyewitness books! I still don't think it's fair to the other kids for one kid to check out all of them, or at least what Jefferson's eye could catch. My kids love these books. They have plenty of pictures, a lot of small print and big print explanations, and a bunch of facts. This is the area that Jefferson finds it the most fascinating. He kept sharing with me tonight a myriad of facts as he was reading them. That's another good thing about these books; the children don't require your attention while reading them. They are as satisfying to James, who doesn't know how to read, but can enjoy the pictures and the CD Roms, as they are to Jefferson, who loves to learn new things by reading and studying them. With these many Eyewitness books, I just might find that pocket of time to read on my own undisturbed.After the library, I took the kids to a nearby park. It is absolutely heaven to have older children taking care of the baby. My mother and I sat on the bench basking under the sun, eating snacks, and talking, while all of my children enjoyed themselves playing together. There was a moment when I told Gillian to let James take Charlton down the slide instead of her, and my mom was surprised that I did that. I explained that I needed Gillian to train James in playing with Charlton at the playground, so he could take care of him when I was with friends and Gillian and Jefferson were at school. My mom was impressed at the forethought that goes into the life of a mom. Of course it does, otherwise I wouldn't be sitting there enjoying the sunshine as if I had no care in the world.
Did you notice James playing in the sand in his Fred Astaire outfit? Did Fred Astaire himself practiced in a suit? James must take this love for dressing up after my dad, who, although would change into his working clothes while working on cars, would travel to work everyday in his suit. Believe it or not, that is my favorite memory of my dad, always in a spotless suit and shiny shoes, an example of a man who took pride in how he looked and how he presented himself. To this day, that simple lesson of self respect in keeping oneself neat, clean and presentable guides my everyday life. Plus, my father knew how to dress as well, and his sense of style truly turned heads, for good. All three of my boys have something of my father when it comes to appearances. Jefferson is meticulous and likes order and neatness, James has a desire to look good, and Charlton is obsessed with being clean. And then comes Gillian, who changes her clothes five times a day, but whose sense of style I won't even discuss. At least, she likes to be clean; she throws every outfit she tries in the dirty clothes basket. Maybe that's just being lazy in not wanting to hang her clothes. I'm trying to be better with Gillian in keeping only the clothes I would like her to wear, instead of a pish-posh of items. Even then... oh well, she will learn. Hopefully.After the park, Jefferson and I went on our date. This time, I accompanied Jefferson to his friend's birthday, and although I didn't spend much time with him, he was still happy to have me close by. His school friend had invited a bunch of them to celebrate his birthday at the Pump It Up playing facility. Jefferson had a fantastic time. Next time we go there, I'll take all of my children for a FHE activity.
When we got back, Gillian and James kept asking me when I was going to take them to our friend and neighbor, Sister Paul. She had promised to show them her bird feeders and bird houses, and maybe a few birds that attended her garden. We did see several Bluebirds while there , and the children did get to clean the bird baths as well as put food in the bird feeders. I need to learn how to plant and keep a garden full of flowers and birds. My kids would really enjoy it. Thank you Sister Paul for taking your time in showing my kids your garden.
After eating dinner, Elijah and I left the kids under my mother's care, and went to the movie theater. I was hoping this date would turn out better than the one last night. Since we have decided to take turns in planning our dates, I announced to Elijah earlier this week that for our date I wanted to go shopping for him. Last night, we visited several stores, but bought only two items for Elijah. Truly, men and women think very differently, but they can still communicate. When it comes to shopping, there is no understanding between the two sexes, and there is no similarities. To me shopping is such an enjoyable experience, and believe me if I go and visit many stores, it isn't because I haven't found what I have been looking for in the first one I went to, but because I want MORE. It was futile for Elijah to relay to me the fact that he didn't actually wanted to be there and that he had a different style from me. I couldn't comprehend why someone wouldn't want to shop, and do a lot of it as well. We came to an understanding that shopping together for clothes shouldn't be in the list of possible dates.
Anyways, I hoped the movie would be a good one, and Elijah and I would enjoy our evening. The movie that we went to see was called The Adjustment Bureau with Matt Damon and Emily Blunt playing the main characters and George Nolfi as the director. Does Fate or Free Will guide our destiny? Are we responsible enough to be entrusted with Free Will? Is it a right or a privilege? This theme drives the plot and makes the romance even more powerful. Using our free will to choose love above power, money, destiny in itself isn't a new idea, but the interpretation was wonderfully created. Definitely a good movie to watch. Both Elijah and I loved it. Not only it was entertaining, but it made you think and opened many doors for discussion. Needless to say, this was a better date than the one last night. Both were created by using our own free will. It seems we also have to remember that with free will come consequences and injury or comfort on others. It must have been a very hard thing for God to give us free will knowing we could either hurt or comfort ourselves or others. I seems, however, the only way for us to learn and grow. I won't take Elijah on a shopping spree next time. There. Lesson learned.
What was your favorite thing you did this week-end?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
