1. Aunt Hannah sent new pencils to the Lambs. While I was looking at what else she sent one of the Lambs decided to sharpen the new pencils. He accidentally put the wrong end of the pencil in the electric sharpener. Ram tried to get the eraser out with no luck. We really go through pencil sharpeners and they aren't cheap. I got the idea to try to sharpen a pencil and try to get the eraser to shred to pieces. It worked! Problem solved.
2. We dyed Easter eggs today. I was so proud that the Lambs were on the picnic table doing the whole process by themselves while I was inside doing dishes. I told them when they were finished to let me know so I could take a picture. Except when I went to take a picture one of the eggs had a bad word written on it. There were lots of "Jesus is Risen" eggs and then this one. Only one Lamb knows how to spell so I knew who did it. I immediately took the shell off that egg and threw it away while the other Lambs asked why I was doing that. Note to self: Next year they need more supervision while dying eggs even though they are capable of doing it by themselves.
3. I'm not even sure exactly what happened, but one of the picture frames in our hallway got broken by the Lambs today. I have each Lamb picture in their own frame and they all match. Which means that if I can't repair this picture frame I need to buy 3 more to replace this one or they won't match any more. Big sigh.
Why are some days like this? I used to like being home all day on Wednesdays without any appointments or lessons, but now I am starting to dread it. I can't understand how this can all happen when it was warm and the Lambs were outside a long time today.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Vision Therapy Evaluation #2
I don't think I ever took the time to write about Lamb 2's first evaluation with the doctor at the beginning of March. Perhaps some time I can go back and do that.
Yesterday Lamb 2 had his second evaluation. He goes to vision therapy twice a week. One time is one on one with a vision therapist. One time is on the computer with a therapist supervising. Every 2 months of therapy the Dr. evaluates his progress.
The first evaluation I wrote up 3 pages of documentation for the Dr. This seemed normal to me after teaching in the classroom; I was asked some times to document students for their doctors or therapists. The Dr. said he had never had a parent do that before. This evaluation I didn't plan to write anything up but my M-I-L suggested that I did so everything was discussed with the Dr. instead of wishing I said something after the appointment. This time my documentation was only one page.
After his evaluation I sat down and typed up notes for myself so that I can communicate with his occupational therapist better. Here are some of those notes about evaluation #2. This will make more sense to those of you that have children that have done similar therapy than it will to others.
1. ATNR is fully integrated! Hooray for being done with those exercises!
2. Duck/pigeon walk is improved but continue to work on this at OT and home.
3. Pattern block activity-Dr. showed a pattern with 3 blocks and asked Lamb 2 to flip the pattern or turn the pattern upside down. Lamb 2 could use lots of work on this.
4. Dr. did some bilateral integration-Dr. touched Lamb 2's right leg and left arm and told him to lift those. Lamb 2 should continue to work on this at OT.
5. OT should continue to work on fine motor to help Lamb 2 with piano and handwriting.
6. Dr. was pleased to see Lamb 2's piano theory book that Lamb 2 wrote the letters in the boxes the correct size.
7. OT should work on digital discrimination-one hand pick up one finger at a time when therapist points to that finger, then do with both hands, then do with hands folded, then do with hands folded and crossed. This will especially help with piano.
8. OT should focus on gross motor and fine motor and leave vision exercises for VT. VT moves quickly and by the time a message of what skill to work on would get to OT, Lamb 2 would probably have already mastered that skill and be working on the next skill.
9. Lamb 2's biggest problem is eye movement speed. All of his vision therapists and the Dr. have noticed this. VT will focus on this now.
10. Lamb 2 had improvements but the next evaluation will be at 8 year old standards vs. his current 7 year old standards. The biggest jump is between 7-8 years old. For example his reading numbers in vertical rows has improved to 30% at 7 year old standard. At 8 year old standard this same score would only be 1%.
11. Dr. was pleased with improvements especially such a noticeable difference in duck and pigeon walk and reading numbers at a 7 year old level. (It made doing duck and pigeon walk up and down our hallway almost daily worth it!) But Lamb 2 still has a lot to work on. Dr. really doesn't know when to predict when Lamb 2 will graduate from VT beccause some areas are so improved and other areas are still drastically behind where he should be at his age. Dr. thinks graduation from VT will happen this fall, but not sure when. We prepaid for 9 months of therapy so it is possible we need to pay for a few more months, but we'll deal with that when and if we need to.
12. Dr. really wants to see Lamb 2 reading Dr. Seuss level books soon because he is turning 8 and he is so eager to learn to read. He suggested daily reading with Lamb 2-beginning with Lamb 2 following along with parent reading and trying to get to the level of parent reads a page and then Lamb 2 reads a page. I had not done anything like this recently as I wanted to give him time to do VT before asking him to read. But I think Dr. is right and we NEED to squeeze in time to practice reading with Lamb 2 daily, not just do phonics and math. This will be important to continue this summer too. I do think Dr. is right that if we can get him to read some easy books it will increase his confidence.
Yesterday Lamb 2 had his second evaluation. He goes to vision therapy twice a week. One time is one on one with a vision therapist. One time is on the computer with a therapist supervising. Every 2 months of therapy the Dr. evaluates his progress.
The first evaluation I wrote up 3 pages of documentation for the Dr. This seemed normal to me after teaching in the classroom; I was asked some times to document students for their doctors or therapists. The Dr. said he had never had a parent do that before. This evaluation I didn't plan to write anything up but my M-I-L suggested that I did so everything was discussed with the Dr. instead of wishing I said something after the appointment. This time my documentation was only one page.
After his evaluation I sat down and typed up notes for myself so that I can communicate with his occupational therapist better. Here are some of those notes about evaluation #2. This will make more sense to those of you that have children that have done similar therapy than it will to others.
1. ATNR is fully integrated! Hooray for being done with those exercises!
2. Duck/pigeon walk is improved but continue to work on this at OT and home.
3. Pattern block activity-Dr. showed a pattern with 3 blocks and asked Lamb 2 to flip the pattern or turn the pattern upside down. Lamb 2 could use lots of work on this.
4. Dr. did some bilateral integration-Dr. touched Lamb 2's right leg and left arm and told him to lift those. Lamb 2 should continue to work on this at OT.
5. OT should continue to work on fine motor to help Lamb 2 with piano and handwriting.
6. Dr. was pleased to see Lamb 2's piano theory book that Lamb 2 wrote the letters in the boxes the correct size.
7. OT should work on digital discrimination-one hand pick up one finger at a time when therapist points to that finger, then do with both hands, then do with hands folded, then do with hands folded and crossed. This will especially help with piano.
8. OT should focus on gross motor and fine motor and leave vision exercises for VT. VT moves quickly and by the time a message of what skill to work on would get to OT, Lamb 2 would probably have already mastered that skill and be working on the next skill.
9. Lamb 2's biggest problem is eye movement speed. All of his vision therapists and the Dr. have noticed this. VT will focus on this now.
10. Lamb 2 had improvements but the next evaluation will be at 8 year old standards vs. his current 7 year old standards. The biggest jump is between 7-8 years old. For example his reading numbers in vertical rows has improved to 30% at 7 year old standard. At 8 year old standard this same score would only be 1%.
11. Dr. was pleased with improvements especially such a noticeable difference in duck and pigeon walk and reading numbers at a 7 year old level. (It made doing duck and pigeon walk up and down our hallway almost daily worth it!) But Lamb 2 still has a lot to work on. Dr. really doesn't know when to predict when Lamb 2 will graduate from VT beccause some areas are so improved and other areas are still drastically behind where he should be at his age. Dr. thinks graduation from VT will happen this fall, but not sure when. We prepaid for 9 months of therapy so it is possible we need to pay for a few more months, but we'll deal with that when and if we need to.
12. Dr. really wants to see Lamb 2 reading Dr. Seuss level books soon because he is turning 8 and he is so eager to learn to read. He suggested daily reading with Lamb 2-beginning with Lamb 2 following along with parent reading and trying to get to the level of parent reads a page and then Lamb 2 reads a page. I had not done anything like this recently as I wanted to give him time to do VT before asking him to read. But I think Dr. is right and we NEED to squeeze in time to practice reading with Lamb 2 daily, not just do phonics and math. This will be important to continue this summer too. I do think Dr. is right that if we can get him to read some easy books it will increase his confidence.
Monday, April 28, 2014
Happy Birthday, Ram!
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| Ram's birthday was yesterday. Lamb 3 remarked that Ram was lucky to pick the hymns for his birthday-the pastor always picks the hymns with help from the members! I volunteered to bring treats for Fellowship Time in honor of his birthday. I did not know when I volunteered that the preschool children would be singing in church and there would be many visitors to also feed. I made one pan of gluten free brownies, and one cake mix each of yellow and chocolate cupcakes. I brought one box of small donut holes and chocolate chip cookies from the bakery and a big bowl of huge strawberries. I brought home a few strawberries, cupcakes, and about half a pan of brownies. I found it humorous that they ate every one of the store bought treats and not all the homemade ones. My sister made the flags for the cupcakes. A visitor asked if we did Fellowship Time every week. I didn't know how to answer that question-we do have treats after church but not usually as much as I brought yesterday. |
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| After about a month of beautiful weather and even sleeping with the windows open a few nights, we have had a rainy cold week. I never expected snow predicted here the end of April. I don't know if we actually got snow because it was supposed to come in the middle of the night, but we did get the rain. Our area needs rain so we don't complain when we get it. |
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| In the afternoon we went to the garden center and bought a few more plants for our yard. Rain yesterday meant that we got a 25% discount. I doubt when they made these flyers up they expected Boise to have so many rainy days where they had to give the bigger discount. When we went in the late afternoon it was sunny and nice but it had rained earlier in the day so we got the rain discount. Ram's parents plan to visit to celebrate Ram's birthday in a few weeks and they will also celebrate Lamb 2's birthday early. Ram opened a few presents from my sister and homemade cards from the Lambs. My sister and both sets of parents called Ram yesterday. We did have most of his birthday meals and plan to have the rest soon. He enjoyed a break from cooking some of his favorite meals. Breakfast: fried eggs and bacon Lunch: egg salad Supper: meatloaf, sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts Snack: sweet and salty popcorn Dessert: He requested peanut butter cookies, but we'll finish the leftover sweets from Fellowship Time first. |
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Prom
Holy Saturday was Prom time here. I'm not sure exactly which schools had Prom. We first saw some people dressed up down the street from us. We couldn't figure out why people would be dressed up the day before Easter. Then we went to an event downtown to walk around a little. There was a group of 3 couples dressed up taking pictures around town. I'm not sure if one of the dads was taking the pictures or if it was a professional photographer. Boy have times changed vs. taking a few pictures in the front yard before my Prom. Then we figured out why Ram had a difficult time finding me a corsage for my Easter dress.
As we drove by people taking pictures for Prom, I thought that if I was a parent of a high school student going to Prom, I would have been disgusted with the scheduling of Prom on Holy Saturday. I understand that Easter was later this year than normal and schools need to schedule it some time. When I went to Prom, my parents still expected me to go to church on Sunday morning. That was one thing to go to church after Prom and then go back to bed for the rest of the day. It would be another thing to go to church on Easter Sunday after Prom. Our church does not have Easter Vigil services, but we really hope in the future that they do. I could just imagine the dilemma, do they go to Easter Vigil service first and then go to Prom? Plus I can picture our Lambs being very involved with music in our services as they are older so skipping these high feast services would not be an option.
Seeing the people dressed up started a conversation with the Lambs about Prom. We don't know if they will still be homeschooled when they are in high school. Even if they are there is a possibility that one of their friends will ask them to go as friends to a local Prom. Lamb 2 immediately started thinking of who he knew around his age that might be a possible Prom date. Lamb 1 immediately said there was no way he was ever going to Prom. He said it would be a waste of money. I said that usually the boy pays if he asks the girl to Prom but if they go as friends they each pay their own way. He said either paying for both or just paying for himself would waste his money plus he didn't want to go to a dance. Lamb 3 stayed out of the conversation, that is the way he is-he will see what happens by then, he isn't worried about Prom today.
As we drove by people taking pictures for Prom, I thought that if I was a parent of a high school student going to Prom, I would have been disgusted with the scheduling of Prom on Holy Saturday. I understand that Easter was later this year than normal and schools need to schedule it some time. When I went to Prom, my parents still expected me to go to church on Sunday morning. That was one thing to go to church after Prom and then go back to bed for the rest of the day. It would be another thing to go to church on Easter Sunday after Prom. Our church does not have Easter Vigil services, but we really hope in the future that they do. I could just imagine the dilemma, do they go to Easter Vigil service first and then go to Prom? Plus I can picture our Lambs being very involved with music in our services as they are older so skipping these high feast services would not be an option.
Seeing the people dressed up started a conversation with the Lambs about Prom. We don't know if they will still be homeschooled when they are in high school. Even if they are there is a possibility that one of their friends will ask them to go as friends to a local Prom. Lamb 2 immediately started thinking of who he knew around his age that might be a possible Prom date. Lamb 1 immediately said there was no way he was ever going to Prom. He said it would be a waste of money. I said that usually the boy pays if he asks the girl to Prom but if they go as friends they each pay their own way. He said either paying for both or just paying for himself would waste his money plus he didn't want to go to a dance. Lamb 3 stayed out of the conversation, that is the way he is-he will see what happens by then, he isn't worried about Prom today.
Thursday, April 24, 2014
What the Lambs think about marriage
*We have spoken to the Lambs about spouses of the people they know by calling them sweeties. This has postponed conversations with the Lambs about unmarried or divorced couples which has been very helpful as part of a pastor's family. It also helped when they knew one member at church, but not that member's spouse. For example: Your Sunday School teacher's sweetie. Plus it makes me smile to think of couples married over 50 years as sweeties.
1. When we listened to Tom Sawyer, there is a chapter where Tom has a discussion with his friends if they want to get married when they grow up. The consensus for Tom and his friends is they don't want to get married because married couples just fight a lot. I asked the Lambs about what they thought of that. Lamb 2 immediately answered, "Why would I fight with my sweetie?" It made me happy that he doesn't think married couples fight.
2. We raised caterpillars and are ready to release the butterflies but the weather hasn't cooperated for release- it has been rainy, cold, and windy. I am just hoping that we don't have to raise more butterflies because we are delaying the release. Lamb 1 said he thinks he knows which ones are male because he thinks some of them have brighter colors than other ones. I don't see that, but he does. Lamb 2 said he thinks he knows which ones are males because they fly around the cage more. Lamb 2 said, "Boys are always looking for a sweetie." I expect both Lamb 1 and 2 are right in more ways than they realize.
1. When we listened to Tom Sawyer, there is a chapter where Tom has a discussion with his friends if they want to get married when they grow up. The consensus for Tom and his friends is they don't want to get married because married couples just fight a lot. I asked the Lambs about what they thought of that. Lamb 2 immediately answered, "Why would I fight with my sweetie?" It made me happy that he doesn't think married couples fight.
2. We raised caterpillars and are ready to release the butterflies but the weather hasn't cooperated for release- it has been rainy, cold, and windy. I am just hoping that we don't have to raise more butterflies because we are delaying the release. Lamb 1 said he thinks he knows which ones are male because he thinks some of them have brighter colors than other ones. I don't see that, but he does. Lamb 2 said he thinks he knows which ones are males because they fly around the cage more. Lamb 2 said, "Boys are always looking for a sweetie." I expect both Lamb 1 and 2 are right in more ways than they realize.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Grandma's flowers
My dad's mom had one request for her funeral. She wanted the Nebraska state flower on top of her casket. That meant she was requesting goldenrod for the top of her casket. My parents couldn't believe she wanted that on top of her casket, isn't that what everyone is allergic to? It turns out that many people are allergic to ragweed, which is different from goldenrod but blooms around the same time so people blame goldenrod.
I was unable to attend Grandma's funeral. She died in the winter a few years ago so it was impossible for the florist to fulfill her request, but they were able to find some silk flowers that looked similar to goldenrod. After the funeral the silk flowers ended up at my parents house.
Last summer my parents came to visit us and brought my great aunt's cedar chest to me. The silk flowers were in the cedar chest and my parents didn't know what to do with them so the flowers came to me too. Soon after their visit I took them to a lady at church and asked if she could use something like that as she is a wedding planner.
On Easter morning I was surprised to see this arrangement on top of the organ at church. We have a small altar area but she tries to put silk arrangements around the organ area especially for the Easter season. She used grandma's silk goldenrod (I think it is actually forsythia) and combined it with other flowers she had. I have no talent to arrange flowers. I am not a big flower person, especially if the flowers are silk. But the symbolism of the resurrection when I will see all my loved ones in heaven again meant a lot to me when I saw those flowers again on Easter Sunday. It was extra special because I didn't know she was going to do this when I gave them to her last summer and then I didn't see them again until Easter.
I was unable to attend Grandma's funeral. She died in the winter a few years ago so it was impossible for the florist to fulfill her request, but they were able to find some silk flowers that looked similar to goldenrod. After the funeral the silk flowers ended up at my parents house.
Last summer my parents came to visit us and brought my great aunt's cedar chest to me. The silk flowers were in the cedar chest and my parents didn't know what to do with them so the flowers came to me too. Soon after their visit I took them to a lady at church and asked if she could use something like that as she is a wedding planner.
On Easter morning I was surprised to see this arrangement on top of the organ at church. We have a small altar area but she tries to put silk arrangements around the organ area especially for the Easter season. She used grandma's silk goldenrod (I think it is actually forsythia) and combined it with other flowers she had. I have no talent to arrange flowers. I am not a big flower person, especially if the flowers are silk. But the symbolism of the resurrection when I will see all my loved ones in heaven again meant a lot to me when I saw those flowers again on Easter Sunday. It was extra special because I didn't know she was going to do this when I gave them to her last summer and then I didn't see them again until Easter.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
He is Risen!
Monday, April 21, 2014
In 1983
The Sunday School children at our small church were taught "This is the Feast" from the liturgy in the new hymnal then (Lutheran Worship). The idea was to teach some of the liturgy to the children during Sunday School opening and then when it was introduced to the congregation the children could be leaders for the congregation. It ended up working quite well.
I had no idea then how useful learning that would be later in my life. Yesterday, after not singing the hymn of praise during Lent many people in our congregation hurried to turn pages in their hymnal to find "This is the Feast". At the same time Lamb 1 and 2 started fighting over their space in the aisle. At that moment I was glad I had the words memorized from my childhood. Thank you, Mr. Scholl and dad, (the organist and pastor). We may have a new hymnal but we still use liturgy from both of the old hymnals.
I had no idea then how useful learning that would be later in my life. Yesterday, after not singing the hymn of praise during Lent many people in our congregation hurried to turn pages in their hymnal to find "This is the Feast". At the same time Lamb 1 and 2 started fighting over their space in the aisle. At that moment I was glad I had the words memorized from my childhood. Thank you, Mr. Scholl and dad, (the organist and pastor). We may have a new hymnal but we still use liturgy from both of the old hymnals.
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Christ is risen!
"He has risen," the angel announces to the woman. "He is going before you to Galilee; there you will see Him." (Matthew 28:6-7) But the Lord decided not to make them wait. He appears to them on the way and tells them to rejoice and not be afraid. He doesn't make you wait either. He meets you today in His Divine Service, chasing away your fears and filling you with His resurrection peace.
Alleluia! Christ is risen!
(From CPH April 20, 2014 Bulletin Cover)
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Moments to ponder in my heart
We have had some trouble with Lamb 1 recently. Everyone I've talked to with older boys has told me if he just turned 10 then this is nothing compared to what will happen in a few years. I won't spend too long on my blog about this, but I will mention that in the last few weeks he lost a new sweatshirt and his bike helmet at the neighbor girl's back yard. Both times it was an extreme crisis until he found it the next time he went over there. Ram was not surprised by this at all, he replied that he probably would have done the same thing when he was Lamb 1's age. (Unless it was a book-he never would have forgotten a book!) This is so difficult for me after growing up with no brothers.
He found the sweatshirt tonight and I tried to give the Lambs as long as possible to play with their friends. That was my mistake-I should have called them in earlier than I did to change their clothes for church. I had a lot of complaints about needing to hurry to change clothes and why they needed to change clothes instead of wearing shorts and t-shirts and even why we needed to go to church tonight.
We made it to church and took our seats at exactly 7pm. The congregation began singing the first hymn. We were smaller in numbers tonight than we are on Sunday mornings. But Lamb 1 sang loudly for the first hymn. It made me smile after the rush to get to church. Moments like this help me keep at this parenting of boys. Because this is really what matters.
He found the sweatshirt tonight and I tried to give the Lambs as long as possible to play with their friends. That was my mistake-I should have called them in earlier than I did to change their clothes for church. I had a lot of complaints about needing to hurry to change clothes and why they needed to change clothes instead of wearing shorts and t-shirts and even why we needed to go to church tonight.
We made it to church and took our seats at exactly 7pm. The congregation began singing the first hymn. We were smaller in numbers tonight than we are on Sunday mornings. But Lamb 1 sang loudly for the first hymn. It made me smile after the rush to get to church. Moments like this help me keep at this parenting of boys. Because this is really what matters.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Ewe with Lamb 1
I came across this photo while I was recently organizing photos. I'm often not in our family photos because I'm taking the pictures. My Grandma gave me the advice to give the firstborn extra TLC. This picture makes me smile with my firstborn. This picture was taken while we visited Ram's parents for New Year's and Lamb 1 and Lamb 2 gave a small piano recital for us. Lamb 1 loves to play hymns out of the hymnal!
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Our 2013 Family taxes
When I was in 8th grade I was scheduled to babysit for a family. When I arrived the couple was not even close to ready to go. They had been working on taxes that afternoon and needed to mail them on the way on their evening out. I had to entertain the kids for several hours before they finally left for their date.
When we moved to the big city when I was in high school, I was amazed to watch the postal workers stand at the curb taking mail until midnight on April 15. My senior year I had an important scholarship application that needed to be postmarked on April 15 so I waited in the drive up line to hand it to the postal worker.
Boy have things ever changed. I don't know if any one still postpones their plans if they don't have their taxes done by April 15 like when I babysat for that family. I doubt even in big cities there are lines at the drop box at the post office. E-filing has really changed our lives, even for those that don't e-file. It was strange to mail one thin envelope only containing a voucher and check because everything else was e-filed for both federal and state. And it was a pleasant surprise to wake up one morning a few weeks ago and check my bank account and see that state refund deposited in the account. Those that get refunds don't even need to go to the bank to deposit their refund any more.
I do find looking at what we submit for taxes an interesting glimpse in our personal lives. I have blogged about this before. I will list some of what our 2013 taxes showed about our family.
* Ram did not attend any conferences out of state which meant he spent very little money on theology books because he didn't stop and shop at the booths. We did not travel out of state for vacation with the exception of Ewe attending the HRTB Retreat in St. Louis.
* Ram did 1 funeral and 2 baptisms at our church.
* Ram and Ewe participated in the Be Well Serve Well Program and were rewarded
* Ewe had 2 miscarriages and had her first mammogram
* Lamb 2 saw a lot of doctors in the fall until we discovered he needed vision therapy
* Lamb 2 began occupational therapy in the fall
* Lamb 3 began private speech after speech at the public school ended for him
* Lamb 3 attended and graduated from preschool
* We got a drinking and water softener system for our house
* We did a few home improvement projects that we wanted to do-put in a few ceiling fans, hung a few wall mirrors in some bedrooms, planted flower bulbs in the yard
* We bought a new refrigerator for the first time
This year we did much better estimating our taxes so only owed a small amount for federal and got a refund from state. Thankfully it is not like last year where we owed a bunch for the previous year taxes plus had to pay a bunch for estimated taxes for the next year. I do think we really realize what we are paying in taxes since Ram is self employed and we pay quarterly taxes instead of having it withdrawn from each paycheck like most Americans.
I miss living in MN at tax time. The refund from state is because there is sales tax on groceries here. I really doubt the refund covers the sales tax our family pays for food. In MN there was no sales tax on food, clothes, or shoes. But we are gradually getting used to paying high taxes here and also learning that because ID is a smaller state than MN there are also not as many benefits for our family (like the Lambs being allowed to have speech therapy at the public school). Thankfully there are other benefits to living in ID besides public services so we like living here!
When we moved to the big city when I was in high school, I was amazed to watch the postal workers stand at the curb taking mail until midnight on April 15. My senior year I had an important scholarship application that needed to be postmarked on April 15 so I waited in the drive up line to hand it to the postal worker.
Boy have things ever changed. I don't know if any one still postpones their plans if they don't have their taxes done by April 15 like when I babysat for that family. I doubt even in big cities there are lines at the drop box at the post office. E-filing has really changed our lives, even for those that don't e-file. It was strange to mail one thin envelope only containing a voucher and check because everything else was e-filed for both federal and state. And it was a pleasant surprise to wake up one morning a few weeks ago and check my bank account and see that state refund deposited in the account. Those that get refunds don't even need to go to the bank to deposit their refund any more.
I do find looking at what we submit for taxes an interesting glimpse in our personal lives. I have blogged about this before. I will list some of what our 2013 taxes showed about our family.
* Ram did not attend any conferences out of state which meant he spent very little money on theology books because he didn't stop and shop at the booths. We did not travel out of state for vacation with the exception of Ewe attending the HRTB Retreat in St. Louis.
* Ram did 1 funeral and 2 baptisms at our church.
* Ram and Ewe participated in the Be Well Serve Well Program and were rewarded
* Ewe had 2 miscarriages and had her first mammogram
* Lamb 2 saw a lot of doctors in the fall until we discovered he needed vision therapy
* Lamb 2 began occupational therapy in the fall
* Lamb 3 began private speech after speech at the public school ended for him
* Lamb 3 attended and graduated from preschool
* We got a drinking and water softener system for our house
* We did a few home improvement projects that we wanted to do-put in a few ceiling fans, hung a few wall mirrors in some bedrooms, planted flower bulbs in the yard
* We bought a new refrigerator for the first time
This year we did much better estimating our taxes so only owed a small amount for federal and got a refund from state. Thankfully it is not like last year where we owed a bunch for the previous year taxes plus had to pay a bunch for estimated taxes for the next year. I do think we really realize what we are paying in taxes since Ram is self employed and we pay quarterly taxes instead of having it withdrawn from each paycheck like most Americans.
I miss living in MN at tax time. The refund from state is because there is sales tax on groceries here. I really doubt the refund covers the sales tax our family pays for food. In MN there was no sales tax on food, clothes, or shoes. But we are gradually getting used to paying high taxes here and also learning that because ID is a smaller state than MN there are also not as many benefits for our family (like the Lambs being allowed to have speech therapy at the public school). Thankfully there are other benefits to living in ID besides public services so we like living here!
Monday, April 14, 2014
Hair Trim
The last time I had my hair cut was on our summer 2012 vacation when my friend Gloria cut it and I donated it. Since I have long hair I rarely take the time to get it trimmed as it isn't as noticeable as when you have short hair and need it shaped again.
I had never had my hair cut in ID and wasn't sure where to go. I do have a friend that had her ear cut when she had a hair cut at one of the chain shops and now I'm very cautious where I walk in. My friend, Joelle, told me where she went but I never made the effort to make an appointment.
I noticed there was a Barber College near where the Lambs have piano lessons. When I was in high school I often went to a Beauty College for perms. I decided to go there for a trim. The ends of my hair were really bad after almost 2 years. I wasn't quite sure about going to a Barber College for a women's hair cut but decided it couldn't be too bad since I just needed the ends trimmed.
I was so glad I went there because with a coupon it was just $5 to get hair washed, trimmed, and styled. Since it was just a trim I wasn't willing to pay much more. I didn't need an appointment so I went when I was ready on Friday afternoon.
The student did a great job and her instructor checked her work. The instructor found one spot that wasn't even but that usually happens when I get my hair cut since it is so long. Both of them remarked how thick my hair is. She said I should come in once a month for trims-I'm not sure I will go that often but I will go every couple of months. She was surprised how long my hair is. I told her this was too short for me to get it cut to donate.
After reading the book Curly Girl I was a little overwhelmed at all the products she put in my hair. When I go back I'm going to ask if she can just put conditioner, not shampoo in my hair. I'm not sure if that is allowed there, but I'll ask. And after I get it cut I'm going to ask to not have it styled. All those products not only smell bad but I know they aren't good for my hair.
For styling she braided my hair and it was cute but the braid fell apart while I slept so I had to wash my hair Saturday morning. On Sunday the woman that sat behind me in church remarked on how nice my hair looked. I guess I really did need the ends trimmed.
After so many miscarriages I usually treat myself to a Starbucks or similar price treat after I go to the doctor now. Even just routine doctor visits are complicated now that I have to tell them when my last miscarriage was. After I got my hair trimmed I stopped at Starbucks. Although going to the Barber College wasn't like going to the doctor, I was proud of myself for being brave and trying it. I figure I still came out ahead since the trim was just $5.
I had never had my hair cut in ID and wasn't sure where to go. I do have a friend that had her ear cut when she had a hair cut at one of the chain shops and now I'm very cautious where I walk in. My friend, Joelle, told me where she went but I never made the effort to make an appointment.
I noticed there was a Barber College near where the Lambs have piano lessons. When I was in high school I often went to a Beauty College for perms. I decided to go there for a trim. The ends of my hair were really bad after almost 2 years. I wasn't quite sure about going to a Barber College for a women's hair cut but decided it couldn't be too bad since I just needed the ends trimmed.
I was so glad I went there because with a coupon it was just $5 to get hair washed, trimmed, and styled. Since it was just a trim I wasn't willing to pay much more. I didn't need an appointment so I went when I was ready on Friday afternoon.
The student did a great job and her instructor checked her work. The instructor found one spot that wasn't even but that usually happens when I get my hair cut since it is so long. Both of them remarked how thick my hair is. She said I should come in once a month for trims-I'm not sure I will go that often but I will go every couple of months. She was surprised how long my hair is. I told her this was too short for me to get it cut to donate.
After reading the book Curly Girl I was a little overwhelmed at all the products she put in my hair. When I go back I'm going to ask if she can just put conditioner, not shampoo in my hair. I'm not sure if that is allowed there, but I'll ask. And after I get it cut I'm going to ask to not have it styled. All those products not only smell bad but I know they aren't good for my hair.
For styling she braided my hair and it was cute but the braid fell apart while I slept so I had to wash my hair Saturday morning. On Sunday the woman that sat behind me in church remarked on how nice my hair looked. I guess I really did need the ends trimmed.
After so many miscarriages I usually treat myself to a Starbucks or similar price treat after I go to the doctor now. Even just routine doctor visits are complicated now that I have to tell them when my last miscarriage was. After I got my hair trimmed I stopped at Starbucks. Although going to the Barber College wasn't like going to the doctor, I was proud of myself for being brave and trying it. I figure I still came out ahead since the trim was just $5.
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Productive Days
Yesterday I did school with the Lambs and then we worked to clean up their play room. We are trying to keep up with it and really clean it often so it is not so bad when they do clean up. They had cleaned it themselves a few weeks ago so Grandpa could see where to build a train table when he visited. It needed an adult to help reach the high parts of the closet etc. to get it completely cleaned up. I also encouraged them to throw some things out and put some toys they had outgrown in the donate pile. The Lambs practiced piano and Lamb 3 did his speech homework. While we cleaned up the playroom Ram ran a few errands. Then I ran errands all afternoon.
While I was gone Ram and the Lambs cleaned out the car-taking out toys and coats and mittens that had fallen under seats-throwing away trash, and even vacuuming out the car. They also did a little organize the garage and sweep the patio work.
In the afternoon I got my hair trimmed. That is a whole different post about finally getting my hair trimmed. I did go to Starbucks to reward myself for finally doing that. I went to two grocery stores. I had lots of coupons to use at Target. I had coupons to use at Kohls. I had taken clothes the Lambs had outgrown to two different used children's stores so had credit to use at both stores. I spent all my credit. Some of what I bought is too big for Lamb 1 but I know he will grow in to it. They often grow in to clothes before I expect them to and I like to be prepared with a few clothes in the next size. I went to Hallmark for a few cards-it's overwhelming how many family birthdays and holidays are coming up-I'm glad I have many cards in stock thanks to my crafty sister, but I needed some specific ones.
Ram made hamburgers on the grill for supper and we ate on the clean patio. Since the play room was cleaned up the Lambs decided to put their sleeping bags in there and camp out in the playroom last night. They were up talking until very late and tonight we had some tired and grouchy Lambs.
Today I was up early to get to Barnes and Noble for their teacher days. I love that they let homeschoolers participate. If you went this morning you got a free drink from their cafe. I bought some books for Ram with my discount and his birthday money that his Grandma just sent. I stopped at Joann to browse some fabric for some projects I have in mind but decided to wait until I have a better coupon and more time to get those projects going. Then I went to church to help them set up. Our ladies had a get together with a delicious lunch, exchanged prayer pal names, and one lady gave a presentation of flowers in the Bible.
While I was gone Ram took the Lambs to an event at Toys R Us where they received a small Lego set to build a car from the Lego movie. Ram made sure to get them there early because it was a while supplies last event. They were so glad because shortly after the start time they started to run out. I don't know why they started early but the Lambs were glad to get free Legos. They have built and rebuilt them a few times today.
I took a nap and Ram made supper-a new recipe for us with sausage and potatoes. The Lambs surprised me and they all liked it and asked us to make it again. Then Ram helped the Lambs move their caterpillars into their butterfly habitat. I gave all the Lambs and Ram hair cuts. After showers the Lambs laid their clothes out for tomorrow.
After the Lambs went to bed Ram decided to tackle a project in our entry way that I've wanted to do for awhile. First he sent all the winter coats and hats and gloves to the laundry room to be washed and put away. Then he washed the cubbies and even used Magic Eraser on the bad spots. Then he put the hats and shoes etc. in yellow fabric bins that I bought. Then he swept the whole area because it is that time of year to get ants again if we don't sweep regularly. I love to see the organized area and the cheery bright yellow bins. It's even better because I didn't have to do that project!
Tomorrow the Sunday School kids sing in church and there is also confirmation. It will be a busy but joyful day at church. If we are not too tired after that Ram may borrow a mower as our lawn really needs to be mowed but our lawnmower is in the shop for 3 weeks for service. Note to self-don't wait until spring to get your mower serviced.
This past week the Lambs had a break from track and I wish the break was this week as it is Holy Week. Next week we are back to regular schedule of therapy, track, and add in Holy Week services and it will be a very busy week. Easter Monday Ram will do a funeral and we will help with the funeral dinner. I don't think our schedule will really let up until track is done this year.
While I was gone Ram and the Lambs cleaned out the car-taking out toys and coats and mittens that had fallen under seats-throwing away trash, and even vacuuming out the car. They also did a little organize the garage and sweep the patio work.
In the afternoon I got my hair trimmed. That is a whole different post about finally getting my hair trimmed. I did go to Starbucks to reward myself for finally doing that. I went to two grocery stores. I had lots of coupons to use at Target. I had coupons to use at Kohls. I had taken clothes the Lambs had outgrown to two different used children's stores so had credit to use at both stores. I spent all my credit. Some of what I bought is too big for Lamb 1 but I know he will grow in to it. They often grow in to clothes before I expect them to and I like to be prepared with a few clothes in the next size. I went to Hallmark for a few cards-it's overwhelming how many family birthdays and holidays are coming up-I'm glad I have many cards in stock thanks to my crafty sister, but I needed some specific ones.
Ram made hamburgers on the grill for supper and we ate on the clean patio. Since the play room was cleaned up the Lambs decided to put their sleeping bags in there and camp out in the playroom last night. They were up talking until very late and tonight we had some tired and grouchy Lambs.
Today I was up early to get to Barnes and Noble for their teacher days. I love that they let homeschoolers participate. If you went this morning you got a free drink from their cafe. I bought some books for Ram with my discount and his birthday money that his Grandma just sent. I stopped at Joann to browse some fabric for some projects I have in mind but decided to wait until I have a better coupon and more time to get those projects going. Then I went to church to help them set up. Our ladies had a get together with a delicious lunch, exchanged prayer pal names, and one lady gave a presentation of flowers in the Bible.
While I was gone Ram took the Lambs to an event at Toys R Us where they received a small Lego set to build a car from the Lego movie. Ram made sure to get them there early because it was a while supplies last event. They were so glad because shortly after the start time they started to run out. I don't know why they started early but the Lambs were glad to get free Legos. They have built and rebuilt them a few times today.
I took a nap and Ram made supper-a new recipe for us with sausage and potatoes. The Lambs surprised me and they all liked it and asked us to make it again. Then Ram helped the Lambs move their caterpillars into their butterfly habitat. I gave all the Lambs and Ram hair cuts. After showers the Lambs laid their clothes out for tomorrow.
After the Lambs went to bed Ram decided to tackle a project in our entry way that I've wanted to do for awhile. First he sent all the winter coats and hats and gloves to the laundry room to be washed and put away. Then he washed the cubbies and even used Magic Eraser on the bad spots. Then he put the hats and shoes etc. in yellow fabric bins that I bought. Then he swept the whole area because it is that time of year to get ants again if we don't sweep regularly. I love to see the organized area and the cheery bright yellow bins. It's even better because I didn't have to do that project!
Tomorrow the Sunday School kids sing in church and there is also confirmation. It will be a busy but joyful day at church. If we are not too tired after that Ram may borrow a mower as our lawn really needs to be mowed but our lawnmower is in the shop for 3 weeks for service. Note to self-don't wait until spring to get your mower serviced.
This past week the Lambs had a break from track and I wish the break was this week as it is Holy Week. Next week we are back to regular schedule of therapy, track, and add in Holy Week services and it will be a very busy week. Easter Monday Ram will do a funeral and we will help with the funeral dinner. I don't think our schedule will really let up until track is done this year.
Friday, April 11, 2014
Dr. Seuss Day
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| We attended an event for Dr. Seuss Day at Barnes and Noble. We actually stumbled into the fun activities-we had no idea this was scheduled. There were so many activities and I was busy helping the Lambs at each station that I didn't take photos. One of their favorites was these elephant ears from Horton Hears a Who. I had no trouble getting them to take photos when we got home. It was such a simple idea-made out of felt and stapled together-I can't imagine how many hundreds they made that day. Thank you to St. Luke's Children's Hospital and Barnes and Noble for a fun day! We will plan to attend again next year. |
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| Lamb 1 |
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| Lamb 3 |
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| Lamb 2-I love this photo with his new front teeth! Note: These photos were taken at this event over a month ago. This is one of the many fun things we have done this spring. I downloaded pictures yesterday and realized I am very behind on my blog. With Holy Week next week I don't expect to get caught up soon, but I will post when I am able. |
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Now he is six
A week and one day ago, Lamb 3 turned 6. I finally downloaded the photos today so I can tell you about his birthday. Now my "baby" is six.
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| Grandpa and Grandma came to celebrate a few days before Lamb 3's birthday. Lamb 1: Juggling Set Lamb 2: Lego Police Dog Unit Lamb 3: Lego Coast Guard Patrol Supper out with Grandpa and Grandma was for pizza which everyone liked and then they also joined us on his birthday to go to Mongolian Grill for lunch. Pizza was gluten free for adults and make your own pizza for the boys. |
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| Lamb 3 was very excited to receive the Coast Guard Patrol. Lamb 1 received his first big Lego set when he was 7 and needed help to build it. Lamb 3 built this set mostly by himself. The difference between oldest and youngest always surprises me. |
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| Aunt Hannah sent this book of puzzles for my boy that loves skeletons and models of the human body and puzzles. It fits right with our homeschooling science this year. The puzzles are a little difficult but he should be able to do them soon. He also received a human body model from Grandma where he can do surgery and remove the parts of the body and put them back in. I don't have a picture, but first he removed the hip like Grandma and the kidney like Papa. |
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| Great Grandma wanted to send a toy for the youngest boy, she didn't want to send money like she sent to Lamb 1. Ram and Ewe never got back to her what Lamb 3 would like, so she sent these Legos. We were impressed that a 93 year old did so well picking a present! Lamb 2 already had this Lego set but it is a 3 in 1 set so Lamb 3 just built something different than Lamb 2 built. Lamb 3 made the hat during speech class with 6 pom poms in the shape of a happy face. He wanted to wear it first thing when he woke up on his birthday. |
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| Birthday meals were spread out over the week since Lent is a busy time of year for a pastor's family. Breakfast: Monkey bread (we made it after Ram left for work so he wouldn't be tempted) Lunch: Egg Salad Supper: Meatloaf and sweet potato fries Dessert: Homemade chocolate pudding which Lamb 2 liked more than Lamb 3 did |
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| Aunt Hannah made cupcake toppers and we took chocolate cupcakes for dessert at the church Lenten supper. It ended up being the only dessert so there were no leftovers. Thankfully all 3 boys got one before they were gone. |
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| Here he is with one of his cupcakes. He asked for a Boise Hawks t-shirt and received it. |
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| He asked me to take his picture on his birthday because he wanted a picture of himself before he lost any baby teeth. He thinks he will lose them when he is 6 but I think he won't until he is 7 like his brothers. We'll see who is right! The picture of Lamb 3 on my sidebar was also taken on his birthday. He couldn't wait until his birthday to wear the birthday pin and his #6 shirt. He saw his brothers wearing the birthday pin in some photos of past birthdays and wanted his 6 year old pictures to have the same pin. It always surprises me what they remember and think is important from past celebrations. Perhaps they are influenced by pictures they see in their scrapbooks. |
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