tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67828527158379073102024-03-14T12:55:47.054-05:00Inside the CircusInsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.comBlogger266125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-58426939124144677052020-04-08T21:04:00.000-05:002020-04-08T21:04:25.947-05:00Virtual Classes During Shelter In PlaceDuring this time of shelter in place, please don't disregard your health.<br />
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I have classes currently available (and trainings) for you to access virtually and I'd love to stay connected with you. If you'd like to see a different class or format on the schedule please leave a comment so I can make appropriate changes. I have training in yoga, STRONG Nation<span style="font-size: xx-small;">™️</span>, Zumba®, personal training, and small group training.<br />
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If you're struggling with nutrition, maybe start by keeping a journal of when you are eating, what you're eating and how you feel when and after you eat it. It's important to maintain a healthy relationship with food and your body during this time. Don't let the stress of this current uncertainty cause you to fall into habits you don't want.</div>
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No matter what, don't forget that you are valuable, needed and stronger than you think. Stay home, stay healthy, stay active.</div>
<br />InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-60106601026702535602019-12-13T15:10:00.001-06:002019-12-13T15:10:49.720-06:00Promise I am not an influencer.<br />
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I am not an elite athlete.<br />
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I AM a wife, a mom, a trainer, a coach, a teacher, a driver, a friend.<br />
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I love seeing people push past their limits but sometimes people aren't ready yet. I love seeing people move but sometimes a toe tap is where they're at. I love helping people love life. If loving your life is overcoming basic functional movements then let's do that. If loving your life is training as an elite athlete then let's do that. Promise me something though; I will not make assumptions about you if you will not make assumptions about me. Promise me we'll work together towards whatever YOUR goal is.<br />
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In return, I promise we'll have fun. I promise we'll laugh and I promise we'll grow.<br />
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Of course we hope for physical changes, but I hope to help change your heart and mind in the process as well because no matter who you are, what you've been through or what you look like, you are loved.InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-56204435483475995162019-12-12T14:38:00.000-06:002019-12-12T14:38:11.675-06:00Hello...hello...hello...helloWell hello.<br />
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Is anyone out there?<br />
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What if I got this going again?<br />
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I think I might...InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-62848657728852553662018-05-04T14:43:00.001-05:002018-05-04T14:43:27.418-05:00The Biggest Role of Their Life<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was 22 and not even married for a year when we became pregnant with our first. My husband and I love kids but our "plan" was to be married for 5 to 7 years before bringing some one else into a mess we were trying to figure out. We learned early in our marriage God's plan is not always our plan but He always wins.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were excited for this new little person. We knew it would be a girl and we knew what her name would be from the first "Ultimate Baby Name Book" we read. We felt like we knew her. We knew her little personality ever since we found out about her and we loved her. Despite the all day nausea, the insane migraines and sleeping in a recliner, we ate up that pregnancy. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were realistic about pregnancy and parenting though. It'll be hard. Labor and delivery will be hard. Having and infant will be hard but boy did we already love the pieces out of our little Elle Belle. We didn't really do a birth plan because we knew, all planning goes out the window once that process starts. We had preferences and things we'd like but we didn't even write it down because, "Why?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Turns out that was a good thing. Our dear Elle Belle (or "Ellie Belly" while she was a big belly that existed) was breach. We ended up having a scheduled c-section which was totally fine. Aside from that, our pregnancy was easy, fun. We grew in girth and excitement every day as our scheduled c-section came closer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The day finally arrived and I was shaking with excitement, and probably some drugs. My OB was fantastic and we talked about beer while I was having a baby removed from me. I was so excited to meet her. While they were cleaning her and sewing me up I felt like I was jumping with excitement in between the dry heaving from the drugs (pregnancy and childbirth is so great guys). Then, they placed her in my arms and I though, "Yep. That's a baby."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That was it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There were no tears of joy to be holding my first born. No laughter at the fact that our lives were now utterly altered. No fright at how much responsibility we now had. It was completely anticlimactic and I felt horrible.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Why wasn't I bursting with joy, pride, love?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This was my first child and I'd been anticipating this moment well beyond my 9 months of pregnancy. I'd been waiting for this day since I was a kid. Since I had my first baby doll. All those years babysitting and volunteering in the nursery. I'd waited for this moment and here it was and nothing. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It didn't last long. By the time we left the hospital we loved cuddling our little bundle and she stole our hearts again, this time postpartum. We've cried tears of joy over her, laughed at how much our lives have changed and experienced many moments of fright at how we're suppose to be responsible. Suppose to be. We've burst with joy, pride, and love over our little girl and all our kids. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That first meeting with my daughter haunted my motherhood. I didn't realize until later why this was my initial feeling. I spent years wondering if I was a horrible mother because this was my first reaction to my first child. "I'm not a loving mother. What mother doesn't feel love for their newborn baby?" But it wasn't a lack of love.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I didn't feel like she was mine. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After 10 years and 3 more kids, I feel a little more ownership (especially when I see my traits exhibited) but she's still not mine. She never will be. From that first baby name book, our Ellianna Evangeline was claimed by Jesus. Even before that. We prayed for her together after I prayed as a kid and "my God has answered me" (which incidentally is the meaning for "Ellianna"). She does not belong to me just as I do not belong to my parents. I thank the Lord for trusting me with this goofy, smart, and beautiful girl but I know she is not for me. Her purpose in this world is far greater than anything I can raise her for and God was preparing me for this from the first day I saw her face.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As if God was saying, "Do not hold on to her. You're quiver will be full so that you may shoot the arrows (Psalm 127:5). Not for them to stay." She is not for me. She is for God. I love her and each of my kids with all my heart more and more each day but they are not mine and when he calls them, I cannot hold them back from Him. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How could I claim that my desire to keep them is more important than whatever mission He has for them. How can I think that my plan is better than His plan. How can I think I would win against the one who always wins. I can't wait to see the part they play for the one who wins it all and know I didn't hold them back from the biggest role of their life.</span></span>InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-26941160615727033272018-03-02T13:47:00.000-06:002018-03-02T13:47:00.673-06:00The "Fitness" BodyCan we just call BS on the "fitness body" please. I just can't anymore.<br />
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This weekend I will be participating in the NEDA (National Eating Disorder Awareness) Walk at the Mall Of America in Bloomington, MN with some amazing people. As inspiring as the event is, it makes me sad to see all the individuals that struggle with body image and those of us in fitness are a huge part of that struggle. </div>
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Let's be honest here. When you search #fitness, #health, #workout, even #workoutmotivation. Does what you see motivate you? Or are they images of unrealistic bodies actually shaming us? After talking with some of my classes most of these gym selfies just seem ridiculous. I'm not talk transformation shots. Those can be incredibly motivating if the individual is still healthy. But that's just it! How many of these images are actually healthy? What looks healthy on one person can be sick for another. So can we just call BS and stop "liking" all the sick healthy images? </div>
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Here's what I'm asking us to do. Before liking that photo on whatever social media platform, take a look at the majority of the content of the individual or group. Does it reflect a healthy, balanced lifestyle? Or is it bikini selfies? Yeah I just outed a large portion of the "fitness professionals." Sorry guys but we have to step up. Bikini selfies posed just perfectly in just the right lighting does not a healthy lifestyle make. Am I right?<br />
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Fitness agencies and professionals: stop feeding into the image. We see ALL body types and images at the gym. Stop supporting ONLY the people that look the way YOU want them to look. Stop feeding into the lie that tall, thin or tall, ripped individuals are the only way healthy looks. I’m just saying, we all know who LOOKS like they belong there but can we maybe support the people that need the support to be there.<br />
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The gym is about becoming the best you. Stop making society one image. We’re all different and our healthy looks different on each of us. Stop following the individual that sets unrealistic expectations for society and follow the one that encourages and inspires. Or maybe follow both of you can but the superheroes are the ones doing the good even when we don’t see. They are the ones doing it because it’s the right thing to do, not because they get likes or follows for it. Be healthy: mind, body, soul because that’s the best way to live and that’s what these individuals this weekend are trying to do disputes the messed up view the majority of society has. I’m proud to stand with real people.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2487831844690859/?ti=icl" target="_blank">Join</a> real people to support more real people this weekend for a healthy future for everyone.<br />
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InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-44384710450036178712018-02-27T21:34:00.000-06:002018-02-27T21:34:51.617-06:00In the Trenches<div>
You know how you can see the same thing on social media and the first time you see it maybe you scroll by it, depending on how appealing it looks to you. Like, "I don't like that font so I'm not going to read it." Maybe the second time it looks the same but some one slightly more credible to you posts it so you "like" it but then it just keeps popping up and you want to be like, "yeah, I got it. Can we move on now?" </div>
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Well Jim Rohn's quote was like that for me. Don't get me wrong I still think its good but I'm over it and I kind of feel like it puts me at a disadvantage. Rohn's quote says, "You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with." It's good right? It inspires one of those, "ooooo," moments in us.</div>
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So, if you were to take an inventory of the people in your life the most who would you see?<br />
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The last time this quote came up I was at a woman's night and experienced the same hesitation you are likely experiencing. You see the majority of the people I spend most of my time with call me, "mom." So you could understand how I would have hesitations about being the average of these four since they are 11, 9, 5, and 4. Don't get me wrong I can throw a fit like a pro when I don't get my favorite cup too but, it's just really hard for me to believe that these four make up most of who I am.</div>
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But I think this is a great perspective because most people have friends they acquire through their stage of life right? You have your work buddies, your soccer mom friends, your college pals, your neighborhood crew. Most of our friends we find through convenience. We start this as kids. Our best friends are often the ones just down the street or around the corner. They go to our school maybe they are even in our class so we see them every day.</div>
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That same thing happens as we grow. Dorm mates, college friends with the same major, co-workers in our same department. I'm not saying this is always the case or these are our only friends but typically our five contain the people we spend our every day with and for most of us that is co-workers. </div>
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If/When we get married our focus changes more toward our spouse but the general concept remains. Then we have kid or kids and goodness gracious the whole word changes. </div>
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Now I have spent time as wife, mom, and full time outside the house job while also juggling full time school and other part time jobs. I will not lie and say I dreamt of being a stay at home mom because I didn't. When my first two kids were 3 and 4 I had the brilliant idea of taking a staycation with my kids and my mom even came for the fun. Monday through Friday. I was ready to go back by Wednesday. Even after the birth of my first; I was ready to go back to work after 4 weeks. If you had told me to take a year to bond with my baby I probably would have slapped you and thought you were crazy. </div>
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Well, December 31, 2014 was my last office day. Not only did I quit my nice office job with built-in friends (yes I did have that person in the office I tried to avoid), I decided it would be perfect for us to homeschool. Some one should have slapped me! Okay if we're being honest I decided none of this right. God said, "stay home," so I did. God said, "thou shalt homeschool," so I did. Now we're only on year three and I still think he's crazy but I'm doing a mix of it and this is what I've gleaned so far.</div>
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I have lost most contact with the outside world even though we leave the house every. day. Maybe one day we don't but we are out there. My crazy coworkers are my kids. They are ALL that person in the office I try to avoid. My oldest son asked me once, "mom, when are we (the kids) not at the house and you are?" </div>
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"Never. We are always. together."</div>
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I feel bad for any adult that engages in conversation with me because I just get so excited to have an adult conversation. My kid's social skills are fine, it's mine I worry about. And this isn't about homeschooling. I think all moms have felt this. We call it, "being in the trenches." </div>
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The trench starts just after the birth of your first child. We get in and the baby is just so gosh darn cute we usually don't take notice of the fact that we can't see the end of the trench. We just stare at those adorable fingers and watch them sleep. "Did you see that? She just sighed. I've never seen anyone so young sigh so wonderfully before. She's the best sigher. She can out-sigh any baby." It's a fun and pretty trench at this point. It probably looks more like a garden maze. Those seem fun.</div>
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At some point, usually with "solid" foods and attempts at communicating with our child as well as any friends we use to see regularly, we are in an ugly, muddy, probably smelly trench. We feel alone. We cannot see the end of the trench. All we see is brown. All we smell is yuck. All we feel is sticky and gooey. Everything we hear seems to be amplified like we're in a tunnel (loud and echoing). And everything we taste is garbage (hot dogs and tater-tots anyone). The people we come in contact with is our own troop trying to get through the trench safely. Occasionally we'll come upon another troop but they looks just as crazed and disheveled as us and the most we can manage is, "we got this."</div>
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If you're a mom who works outside the home as well, I want to applaud you. I don't remember how I got things done and you're probably doing better than I did at home management but you are rock stars for juggling family and career. Maybe you feel stressed trying to do it all, maybe you don't but you're not alone. Look around. Many times though, you guys have something the stay at home mom's don't. You have each other. You have your 5 people that can have an adult conversation with. Now if for some reason you don't, please look at who your co-workers are and ask God to put on your heart one of them that should be part of your 5. You women are in the trenches too but Monday-Friday from 9-5 a rope is extended down to you.</div>
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For those who do not work outside the home...I'd like to tell you to look at the women around you and tell you there is potential here for your 5. The reality is when we get in this trench we are rarely able to look around outside our troop. Maybe I'm the only one struggling with this but I have a suspicion I'm not. So here is what I'm suggesting.</div>
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If you are not in the trench, reach out to some one that is. They aren't hard to identify. Cereal stuck somewhere. Looks exhausted. Possibly has a child hanging off them. If you are pre-trench or post-trench, it doesn't matter. Here is what you do: when you're on your way home from work to catch up on your favorite show and you're stopping to grab a coffee (I can't be the only one that drinks coffee at 5 pm) text her. Find out what she wants, not what she needs. Get her a coffee or smoothie (or water she may be dehydrated) and stop by her house. For 5 minutes, see her. Hear her. It might take 10 minutes because the kids will interrupt every 30 seconds. </div>
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This is what I love about my 5, honestly I don't have 5 I think I have 2, maybe 3. They stop by. No expectations except to see me. They will hang out at my house with me no matter what it looks like. No matter who is there. No matter what they sat on or what they have to move to find a place to sit. They let me mom and friend at the same time. They continue my conversation with them while I'm also directing my kids because if we don't we never get to have a conversation. If you're waiting for the chaos to stop, it won't. I have 4 kids. There is a reason we are the circus. They don't get upset if I ask them to repeat something. They'll stay late. They give me their time even if mine is split.</div>
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It is hard to be in the trenches. If you're not there, we can still pour in to you. We do have a lot to offer. If you're through yours, remember what it was like. We have a compassion for those that will go through the trench. We have a respect and desire to learn from those that went through it. The trenches are tough but we can help each other prepare for them and get through them.</div>
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InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-36985529411739411482018-01-29T11:37:00.002-06:002018-01-29T11:37:19.600-06:001 YearIt has been just over a year. I'd like to say lots has changed. Maybe it has and I just don't see it, living in it. In fact, I'm sure lots has changed but I don't see it.<br />
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In either case I'd like to write more. I know I'm not a writer but I know I enjoy writing so I'm going to. I'm going to do it for me and because God told me to. In my experience its best to do what he asks. I don't like journaling. My hand hurts writing. Maybe this is my way of journaling.<br />
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But what is going on now? What has happened in the last year?<br />
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Elle is now at a charter school 45 minutes from our house but it s such a good fit for her. Classical education and lots of reading. This girl is smarter than me but don't tell her I said that.<br />
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We are still homeschooling Gabe. He has been seeing a therapist to help with his explosiveness. He's such a sweet kid. Over the past year he has started to discover his voice. It's been so amazing to see and hear him process. This kid is absolutely amazing in the way he thinks and we encourage him to continue thinking the way he does because he will change the world.<br />
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Reese has been doing kindergarten work at home. She will be joining Elle at the charter school next year. I can't believe she will actually be in kindergarten. Look out world!<br />
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Ty just turned 4. He is and will always be the baby. We love him dearly and are thoroughly enjoying watching him grow and his little personality explode.<br />
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We were so incredibly blessed for Kyle to get a teaching contract for the year. He's working at a residential treatment facility for teen boys as a middle school/high school teacher. It's not where he thought he'd be but he's definitely doing what he knew he was called to do: make a difference in the life of troubled teens. It is a constant reminder to us that what God calls us to may look different than what we perceive, that we should remain patient and trust in our provider.<br />
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God has been good in allowing me to continue my job as a group fitness instructor at multiple location teaching Zumba® and STRONG by Zumba®. I've been blessed to hold several master classes for both formats and continue to pray about expanding my portfolio.<br />
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He has been good. He is good. He will continue to be good. Through the last year his steadiness is a blessing. He provides daily. Just like the manna. A daily miracle God provided which the Israelites lost sight of as a miracle (Numbers 11). How many little miracles do we lose sight of when he is so faithful in providing them every day?<br />
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Lord help me to be continually thankful in the midst of my hardships and your continued faithfulness. Help me crave only you and resist complaining. Help me bring forth praise in your hearing for all you have allowed in my life. Your will is great. Your plan is greater. Your way is better than any I could ask or imagine. I trust you Lord.InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-63135547890355447292017-01-17T09:30:00.000-06:002017-01-17T09:30:41.330-06:00The Little Engine That Can't<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-siLvhRsmrfIqOG9Djqh2vMhL3UgmfIjzqiYaZvxMwggiNzpIQmsdwuX1aR-z3C926BbyMzWxfgMtAoHKJUvl_0xYp6xD217v0kZpxHDpBYPUpWfarlxjh-HCPmhFXzCxW590heNbJg/s1600/TheLittleEngineThatCould.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-siLvhRsmrfIqOG9Djqh2vMhL3UgmfIjzqiYaZvxMwggiNzpIQmsdwuX1aR-z3C926BbyMzWxfgMtAoHKJUvl_0xYp6xD217v0kZpxHDpBYPUpWfarlxjh-HCPmhFXzCxW590heNbJg/s320/TheLittleEngineThatCould.JPG" width="315" /></a></div>
This book sits on my sons' nightstand among LEGOS and matchbox cars. Actually, as you can see, two copies of this book sit on my sons' nightstand. If you have only ever read the abridged version, good for you. If you have the full version, I'm sorry. It goes on forever doesn't it. I cry a little when he picks the long version.<br />
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We're all familiar with the story even if we haven't read it. A train can't make it over the mountain and the contents of the train (toys, stuffed animals, a toy clown) try to find an alternate ride. If only Uber worked for trains. In the end a little blue engine comes along that thinks she can so she does. YAY! Happy ending right? It totally is. Don't worry, I'm not going to ruin it.</div>
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But have you ever read the story from the first engine's perspective? Or do you read it from the little blue engine's? The focus is usually on the Little Blue Engine. "I think I can." The phrase, "If you think you can you can," is one used in our house all the time. We want to be the one that saves the day. We want to be the one that overcomes. We all <b>want</b> to be the Little Blue Engine but sometimes we are undoubtedly the first engine in the story.</div>
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I was so exhausted one night but by the grace of God was obedient to reading to my son (please don't pick the long version). Reading through the story for the millionth time, suddenly God gave me different eyes. </div>
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The first train was carrying wonderful things to the kids on the other side of the mountain: food, toys, stuffed animals. That's a lot of stuff it has to pull behind. The mission is a good one but it can get heavy. I have an amazing journey, we each do, but there are a lot of things we pull with us.</div>
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No matter what stage of life we're in we have a mission and there are things we must bring with us for these missions. And these things can get heavy. I think we've all been in that place. The place where we just need someone. Maybe we don't want the train to take our load but to just come along side us. We want to keep going but we have stopped with a jerk and simply cannot go another inch.</div>
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Three different trains come along right. We could dissect and analyze these trains forever but just go with me here. Each train is at it's own stage and we're not gonna blame them for not helping. We don't know their story. We each have our own journey and that night, in my journey I was that first, tired engine.</div>
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Most days I feel like the last engine (the tired, rusty, old engine) but this night, I hadn't even completed my trip. I couldn't get through my day. I couldn't even muster, "I like I can." I was Phoebe in FRIENDS. I didn't even have a pla- (Do you have a plan?). I couldn't even ask for help. The funny little clown had to do it for me.<br />
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Finally along came this little engine who didn't have a load to carry. She had a job. She had an important job. She switched trains in the yard. But she saw a need and she tried. She knew she could do more than what other trains expected of her and so she pushed herself.<br />
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Now I don't want "Little Blue" to take my load. I love my load. Maybe she could just go in front of me chug, chugging and puff, puffing, "I think we can. I think <b>WE</b> can." These "Little Blue" friends are amazing and I'm insanely grateful for my "Little Blues" but lets look back at the first engine.<br />
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Am I alone in this? Am I the only one who read "The Little Engine That Could" and cried feeling like the first engine and so happy "Little Blue" came along? I mean usually I'm all, "Yay Little Blue. I think I can too! Let's do this!" But what am I suppose to do when I am that first engine?<br />
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Those magical words, "self care," are ringing in your ears aren't they. If you're like me when you hear "self care" you visualize a day at the spa being completely pampered but for most of us that's just not realistic. We can relate to the scene in "Bad Moms" when the "fantasize" about a minor car accident so they get to be "pampered" in the hospital (just to be clear we don't really want that to happen). So what are some practical ways to take care of yourself?<br />
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My favorite is a book and a cup of coffee. Even that doesn't happen very often. A coffee date with a friend maybe. The one that lets you out <a href="http://stennes.blogspot.com/2017/01/hello-from-inside.html" target="_blank">from the inside</a>. Some days we might be able to treat yourself to a shopping spree or a spa day but be content in the warm cup of coffee now too. <br />
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When we are in the circus, finding time for self care requires more sacrifice than wrangling the lion. But if we don't find that time we will sacrifice something much greater. </div>
InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-66741764980423361062017-01-11T22:31:00.001-06:002017-01-11T22:31:18.816-06:00Hello From the InsideWell hello.<br />
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It has been quite a while but that is how it is when we choose this life. We choose less of us for more of everything else. We choose crazy, busy, messy, love. We wouldn't change it for anything. In the midst of this anything though we have our moments.<br />
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Moments of loneliness. Moments of exhaustion. Moments of missing. We miss all sorts of things: friends, warm coffee (forget hot), showers at our own pace, naps, even uninterrupted bathroom breaks. We know, "this is a season." We know, "this too shall pass." We know, "enjoy it while it lasts." We know this and we do but I want to say something to those single friends, young married friends without children and even the ones with children whether your children are old or young or all over the range.<br />
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Thank you.<br />
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When you sent that silly text that had nothing to do with anything, thank you. When you didn't get upset because it took me 3 hours to respond to said text, thank you. When you came to my house with my circus in full swing and joined in or kept up our conversation pretending there wasn't a circus, thank you. When you walked through Target with me and my circus and let me juggle my mom and girlfriend hat (actually holding one while I wore the other), thank you. When you let our coffee date turn into a playdate, thank you.<br />
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Thank you for loving my kids and if you don't thank you for pretending to love them so well for me. Thank you for letting me juggle and helping me juggle. Thank you for living life with me when I don't get to have my own life. It is hard, but I wouldn't change it for anything.<br />
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It is hard. I'm so grateful I get to join you when I can and you don't get upset when I can't. I'm so grateful you understand my life is not my own but you still want to be part of it. I'm so grateful you bring part of me out from the inside.<br />
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You see I live inside. I live inside this mode of "Mom." I love "Mom" mode but you so wonderfully know there is so much more to me than that but also understand that "Mom" is so much of who I am. I live inside of diapers, potty trips, spills, picky eaters, chaos, pink plates and blue plates, chocolate milk, runny noses, bickering, tickle fights, burps and "toots" (trains or gas, you decide). Most often my "getting out" still brings my clowns with me and when it does you laugh and play and make us feel loved. And when it doesn't, we laugh hard, make messes and act like clowns ourselves.<br />
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So thank you. Even when I'm still inside you open the door just a crack so I can see outside. You let the sun shine in and let me stand, arms open, eyes closed and feel the glorious sun.<br />
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Someday soon I'll step outside with you again, always keeping that door in the corner of my eye. And when you are ready to stay inside, I will be there to open your door just a crack so you can see outside and feel that glorious sun.InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-19910943333018432592015-06-11T22:24:00.000-05:002015-06-11T22:24:42.447-05:00The Weeks Go On<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">It has been almost 3 weeks since Reesie-Roo's surgery and she is doing wonderfully. Thank you to everyone who has been praying. I'm so sorry it has taken this long for an update and thank you for being so patient, so for your kindness, here is your update.<br />
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The day after her surgery Kyle and I were honestly expecting to have a chill day at home watching movies and waiting on her while she was sluggish. AS IF! This girl was running around the house! We decided to take advantage of a day with Daddy home and the older kids still at school, so we took the littles to the Como Zoo.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://instagram.com/p/3MY0y4B83Q/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">After a rainy day at the hospital all day yesterday we took advantage of daddy being home, not having to spend the night at the hospital and a super energetic #reesieroo</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">A photo posted by Eryn S (@estennes) on <time datetime="2015-05-27T17:21:30+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 27, 2015 at 10:21am PDT</time></span></div>
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She had a blast and honestly, so did we. We don't get to spend time with just the littles very often so it was a nice change of pace. We even went to Mac's Fish & Chips for lunch. That afternoon Kyle took Reese to her follow up appointment. Dr. Soumekh checked her incision by her ear and gave us care instructions. Twice a day, we were to use a Q-tip with hydrogen peroxide to clean out the lymph node, then use ointment on a Q-tip in the incision and cover with a bandage. The first few days it was tough to get her to sit still for the "cleanings." We started bribing her with ice cream. Quality parenting right here folks. After the first cleaning she didn't want ice cream anymore.<br />
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A photo posted by Eryn S (@estennes) on <time datetime="2015-05-29T14:06:56+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 29, 2015 at 7:06am PDT</time></div>
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Earlier in June we had another appointment with Dr. Soumekh and everything was still looking good. The bandage on her chin has finally fallen off so we are just seeing that for the first time. It looks good but we'll probably be some essential oils on that to help with the healing. The incision by her ear is so small right now but is healing as well. She's still on antibiotics and we're not sure how long she'll have to be on them. She has another appointment June 24th to see how she's doing.<br />
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The girl hasn't missed a beat.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/3ZjB5Wh86A/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Crying I'm laughing so hard. #reesieroo</a></div>
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A video posted by Eryn S (@estennes) on <time datetime="2015-06-01T20:00:48+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jun 1, 2015 at 1:00pm PDT</time></div>
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She's as sassy as every.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/3rAKS7B8w4/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">It's a #ginger assault. #reesieroo #dontevencare</a></div>
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A photo posted by Eryn S (@estennes) on <time datetime="2015-06-08T14:42:27+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jun 8, 2015 at 7:42am PDT</time></div>
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InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-90357017142541539652015-05-26T20:47:00.000-05:002015-05-26T21:03:07.215-05:00Home Sweet Home<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Today Reesie-Roo had her surgery. She did great.<br />
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A HUGE thank you to everyone that helped and prayed. I can't list you all! From those that helped with the kiddos to those that kept us in their thoughts and prayers today.<br />
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Reesie had to be at the hospital at 10:30 and I'm pretty sure she thought she was just at a playground.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://instagram.com/p/3Jl5pAh8zj/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">I think she'll be fine. ;) #reesieroo</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">A photo posted by Eryn S (@estennes) on <time datetime="2015-05-26T15:18:03+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 26, 2015 at 8:18am PDT</time></span></div>
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Just to recap: Reese had two bumps that needed to be "dealt with" due to ATB (<a href="http://stennes.blogspot.com/2015/05/reesie-roo.html" target="_blank">you can read last week's post for more info</a>). They removed the one on her neck (you can hardly see it in the photo below) and drained the on by her ear. They let me come back to the OR when they put the mask on her to knock her out. I'm so grateful she wasn't awake for the IV and anesthesia this time. It wasn't horrible last time but I'm grateful we didn't have to do it again. We were told the surgery would last about an hour but after about 30 minutes Dr. Soumekh came out and told us everything went well.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://instagram.com/p/3JmGMZB8z8/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Goodbye ATB! #reesieroo</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">A photo posted by Eryn S (@estennes) on <time datetime="2015-05-26T15:19:45+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 26, 2015 at 8:19am PDT</time></span></div>
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They brought her to recovery and Kyle was able to get to the hospital (the whole 2 blocks from his work) before she woke up. She was still pretty sleepy for a while but managed to force down 3 Popsicles and 2 cups of Jell-O. <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://instagram.com/p/3KLLtlB83q/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_top">Just watching The Lego Movie. #reesieroo No owies yet. Yay for pain meds.</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">A photo posted by Eryn S (@estennes) on <time datetime="2015-05-26T20:43:49+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 26, 2015 at 1:43pm PDT</time></span></div>
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We'll see Dr. Soumekh tomorrow afternoon and he'll change the dressing for us (it looks absolutely nasty right now. We warned the older kids about how it looked and they did great when they saw her. We're so happy we didn't have to stay the night and that she gets to sleep in her own bed tonight instead. She's doing great with pain so far. "No owies." She does keep touching it wondering what is going on. She hasn't seen it yet and I'm hesitant to show it to her until it looks a little better. <br />
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A photo posted by Eryn S (@estennes) on <time datetime="2015-05-27T01:42:14+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 26, 2015 at 6:42pm PDT</time></div>
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Thanks again for all the prayers and messages today. My brain was absolutely fried so if I didn't respond or if what I responded doesn't make sense, please forgive me and bring it up at a later date when we can laugh until we cry.</span></div>
InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-76458712475784602702015-05-19T14:13:00.004-05:002015-05-19T14:14:07.048-05:00Reesie-Roo<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Mid to end of February we noticed some bumps on Reesie-Roo: one next to her left ear lobe and one on her neck. Due to the location we assumed they were swollen lymph nodes and her body was just fighting and infection and they would go away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Early in May we visited her pediatrician since they had not gone away. Her pediatrician ran some blood tests to check for a few things which came back normal so she sent us to an ENT specialist. The following Thursday we saw Dr. Christiansen who gave us a diagnosis of Atypical Mycobacterium (</span><a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1891767/" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/<wbr></wbr>pmc/articles/PMC1891767/</a><span style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">). Dr. Christiansen referred us to Dr. Soumekh who is a </span><b style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">pediatric</b><span style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;"> ENT specialist (We actually had a friend recommend Dr. Soumekh so the fact that we ended up with him was great). Dr. Christiansen wanted Dr. Soumekh to confirm the diagnosis and recommend on a treatment plan.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">The next day (Friday) we saw Dr. Soumekh. He was fantastic. Dr. Christiansen had called Dr. Soumekh to tell him we would be coming. These people are so kind! Anyway, Dr. Soumekh did confirm the diagnosis, ordered and CT scan and an appointment for us to see and infectious disease doctor. He wanted to see how deep the one by her ear was. If it was too deep then we would run a risk of it being in the Parotid gland and having to remove that or scrap out the area, as well as nerve issues in the face. If it was not too deep then they can remove both spots.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Reese had a physical/pre-op that following Monday (<span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1293383990" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">9:00</span></span>) to give her an otherwise clean bill of health for the CT scan later in the day (12:00) at Children's. She will be sedated for the CT scan. Then her appointment with the infectious disease doctor at 3:30. Full day of appointments but Kyle and I thought it would be better to get them all in on one day then drag them out over the course of 3. <span style="font-size: 18px;">Dr. Soumekh has been great and is really pushing for urgency with this. If they can catch it before it grows into the gland all the better. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Dr. Soumekh called us that same day to inform us the CT scan couldn't guarantee the growth wasn't going into the gland. He recommended removing the lump on her neck (sending it for testing) and scraping out the one by her ear). I trust his recommendation so we're moving forward with it.</span></div>
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<b style="color: #222222; font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Tuesday, May 26th at 12:00</b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;"> Reese will have her surgery at Children's Hospital in Minneapolis. She will be there overnight to monitor her and will have a follow up appointment with Dr. Soumekh a week after the procedure. We've been told they will likely monitor her for a year but this won't cause any long term health issues for her. She may have to go back if there are cosmetic issues but honestly it would only add to the Reesie-Roo roughness.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Reese was great for her CT scan and for all the appointments she's had. She's remained her sassy self and we know she'll do just fine with her surgery. Most of you have experienced this. If you tell Reesie she is a goof or funny or, really and adjective, her response is pretty much always, "No I not, I Reesie-Roo." Yes you are girl. There is no other way to describe her but "Reesie-Roo." She's been excellent through this so far. We are so grateful for the speed of the doctors and that this hasn't been something worse. We have definitely felt humility for those whose lives revolve around doctors appointment and constant questions. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Thanks for all your prayers. We'll update after surgery next week.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: FullLifeSans; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Please pray she continues to be brave and that everything goes well during surgery. We know she's in good hands.</span><br />
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InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-13376392969986418152012-09-21T08:05:00.001-05:002012-09-21T08:05:55.332-05:00CountdownI LOVE countdowns. It makes things just a bit more exciting. Right now I have a few countdowns, which means right now my life is very exciting.<br />
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Since I now have a child in school I can countdown to the last day of school (258 days).<br />
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This year we're going out to Colorado for Christmas and I'm very excited for that (94 days).<br />
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Then we have one of the biggest events for the year. Reese! It's 28 days until her scheduled c-section but only 21 days until her due date.<br />
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And the closest item on my countdown list...6 days until the <a href="http://stennes.blogspot.com/2012/09/2012-minnesota-sonscape-banquet_20.html" target="_blank">SonScape Banquet</a>!<br />
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What are you counting down to?InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-23194888571211430362012-09-20T16:05:00.001-05:002012-09-20T16:05:15.561-05:002012 Minnesota SonScape BanquetThis was originally posted on 09/13/2012 and somehow vanished. I am reposting now for your reading pleasure.<br />
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Just over 4 years ago my parents were swept from Minnesota to Colorado. It was a sad day for me since my family is very close, but when they leave to support such a fantastic ministry its hard to be sad for too long.<br />
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SonScape Retreats is an absolutely fantastic ministry and you aren't likely to find another organization out there like them. It's more than just a retreat for those in ministry (and their spouses). Only by attending one of SonScape's retreats can you fully appreciate what they have to offer and why its so different from anything else out there.<br />
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I'm pretty well acquainted with about 70% of their staff so I can honestly say they really do just want to serve and they serve those in ministry with an amazing spirit and heart. The retreat leaders speak from experience to those at retreats since they have 68 years of combined ministry experience between them. Their words are not hollow and lacking experience. In addition, I have seen the walk of faith they have endured and they truly do seek to do the will of God. As if that wasn't enough, their location is pretty darn near close to heaven on earth as you'll get. Just check out Where You'll Stay. Imagine you (if you're in ministry) or your pastor sitting in that setting, staring at the majesty of Pike's Peak! <br />
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All that to be said, they are a fantastic non-profit ministry and growing. On Thursday, September 27th, 2012 , from 6:30 - 9:00 PM they are hosting a banquet at International Market Square. Since they are a non-profit they need support but more than that its an opportunity for you to see who and what SonScape is. There will be a silent auction with some excellent items up for bid, dinner, and I've heard rumor of music. I know all Minnesota people are dying to tap their toes to some good music (don't worry you might be able to hide that tapping toe under a table. No one has to know you were grooving.).<br />
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If you're looking for a great way to show your pastor you appreciate them (do you remember that October is Pastor Appreciation Month??), this is a great way to learn what SonScape is all about, support their ministry and take care of Pastor Appreciation Month all in one shot. Instead of just coming by yourself, bring your pastor and their spouse so they can see how amazing SonScape Retreats is as well!<br />
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Tickets for the event are $50 per person (includes cost of dinner and a small donation to SonScape Retreats). Visit the Events page on SonScape's website to register for the evening (and register your friends as well). Then, visit the Facebook page for the event and pass it along to anyone you think may be interested.<br />
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It may have been a loss on my part for my parents to move out to Colorado, but the work they are doing is so much greater!<br />
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I hope to see you at the banquet! What kind of daughter would I be if I didn't support it. In fact, you may even catch a glimpse of a 8 1/2 month pregnant woman running around since I'll be helping work the event. You wouldn't want to miss THAT would you?!?!
InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-10610848806924630182012-09-11T07:20:00.001-05:002012-09-11T07:20:03.233-05:00Smarty PantsYesterday Elle was goofing around and said she didn't need to go to kindergarten anymore because she's already been and she knows everything now. I went along with it and here's how it played out...<br />
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Me: Well if you know everything what is 2 X 2?<br />
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Elle: 4.<br />
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Me: Okay then. What's 4 X 4?<br />
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Elle:....that's 4 and 4 and 4 and 4...16.<br />
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Well played Elle, but you still have to go to school. I didn't dare go higher, I was scared of the response.InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-57499115028471879452012-08-30T08:30:00.000-05:002012-08-30T08:30:05.415-05:00One WeekThat’s all I have left of my little girl. My (current) only girl, my firstborn, will start school in ONE WEEK! And I am so excited for her!
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I’m not worried or sad or even hesitant about her starting. Elle feeds on structure and learning, something school will be able to provide that has likely been lacking for awhile. It helps that Elle is ready to jump in as well. When your child is excited to start the new adventure of school it sure makes it easier for you.<br />
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Elle has taken on a LOT and she enjoys it but she’s still only 5 ½. While I love that she is so responsible and capable I have to remember that she is still a kid. With her schedule changing so drastically this year I’m hoping Kyle and I can help teach her the importance of balance. She’ll be going to school all day and will have over 6 hours of dance during the course of the week. We’ve capped it at there. We’re probably insane for letting her do all the things she’ll be doing this year but we’ve talked a lot about it and tried to determine what the best thing for Elle would be.<br />
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She’s excited, for dance and for school. She gets tired, and we let her be tired. We’ve tried to teach her the difference between crying because you didn’t get your way and just needing to have a good cry sometimes. We’ve tried to teach her that she is incredibly blessed to be able to do all the things she is getting to do. We’ve tried to teach her that we love her unconditionally and we are extremely proud of her. We’ve tried to teach her to respect everyone and to make her own decisions. We’ve tried to teach her to follow as well as lead. We’ve tried to teach her a lot in these last 5 ½ years but now it’s her turn. Now she gets to learn from her teacher and her classmates. Now she will be taught from the world as well as her home.<br />
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I pray she keeps her spirit. I love my little girl’s spirit. She is naturally joyful and goofy but cautious and analytical. I pray her experiences help grow these characteristics appropriately instead of letting them grow like weeds or smothering them.<br />
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Our family is so excited to watch our oldest start this new adventure and to ride along with her.<br />
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Shine your light Elle Belle!<br />
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InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-61978099262137984712012-08-24T07:37:00.003-05:002012-08-24T07:39:16.814-05:00What's On Your AgendaWith the weekend all but here (just get through the next 8 hours), what are your plans for one of the last weekends of the summer?<br />
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I'm really excited for my weekend. I get to spend Saturday, or at least a good portion of it with <a href="http://wildruffle.com/2012/07/07/retro-benefit/" target="_blank">Wild Ruffle</a> at the <a href="http://orchardarthouse.blogspot.com/#!/2012/07/buy-your-tickets-here.html" target="_blank">Retro Benefit for Urban Homeworks</a>.<br />
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This Saturday (August 25th) from 2 - 7 PM you can check out the likes of <a href="http://www.ashleybarlow.com/" target="_blank">Ashley Barlow</a>, <a href="http://www.circavintage.org/" target="_blank">Circa Vintage</a>, <a href="http://urbanhomeworks.com/" target="_blank">Urban Homeworks</a>, <a href="http://www.mercy-hill.com/" target="_blank">Mercy Hill Church</a>, <a href="http://orchardarthouse.com/" target="_blank">The Orchard House</a>, <a href="http://orchardarthouse.com/" target="_blank">Wild Ruffle</a>, and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ekate" target="_blank">ekate Designs</a> all to benefit Urban Homeworks, an excellent organization if you haven't heard about them.<br />
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And if THAT doesn't entice you enough, you can come check out my growing belly.<br />
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I'll see you there!InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-4324092669996256002012-08-22T09:14:00.000-05:002012-08-22T09:14:17.299-05:00This & ThatNo, I have not fallen off the face of the earth.<br />
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Yes, I am still alive.<br />
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No, I have not yet had the baby.<br />
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Yes, I am ready to NOT be pregnant.<br />
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No, I am not ready to be a mother of THREE.<br />
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Yes, I do only have roughly 7 weeks to get over that.<br />
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No, I'm not fully back to posting.<br />
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Yes, I will try to be more consistent...<br />
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In the mean time, breath a sigh of relief that this is likely the shortest blog post you will have to read today.InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-2422390660909612502012-06-19T07:31:00.001-05:002012-06-19T08:50:02.362-05:00"Big" Brother<br />
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This little boy is quite the big brother.</div>
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If you live in Minnesota or like to follow Minnesota weather (which is weird by the way), then you know we've been dealing with some pretty nasty thunderstorms. Sunday night Kyle and I anticipated the children waking up at any moment but through the almost 2 hour of torrential downpour and constant lightning, they didn't wake. Of course the hail was saved for last night and apparently hail is what does the trick.<br />
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Around 4:00 AM Kyle and I were awakened by the wind, rain, hail and lightning. After checking the weather app for any serious weather alerts I passed some time to see if anyone else was suffering just as we were. Sure enough, Gabe came wandering in to our room, almost sleep walking muttering something about Elle needing me.<br />
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Gabe is pretty good at making excuses to get something he wants but it was somewhat clear that he really had no idea what was going on this morning. Since I was expecting this I was prepared to get my bum out of bed and spend some time with my rightfully frightened children.<br />
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I followed Gabe into their room, saw Elle sitting straight up and watched Gabe crawl back into his bed, roll over and go back to sleep. It was hard not to laugh. It appears poor Elle was too frightened to climb down from the top bunk and come get me herself so she woke Gabe to come get me instead.<br />
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What a brave big brother. What on earth will Elle do when they have their own rooms instead of sharing?</div>InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-10707648614563118952012-06-12T08:57:00.001-05:002012-06-12T08:57:23.320-05:00HonestlyYesterday was Elle's first day of dance Audition Prep Camp. She is 5 and will be auditioning for competition dance for the first time this year. Kyle and I discussed it for quite some time since she is only 5, that's a big commitment for a 5 year old, she'll be starting kindergarten this year and all the other reasons.<br />
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After discussing Elle's progress with her teachers, the studio owner and evaluating her passion for dance, it's insane, we decided an audition would be fine and we'll take it from there. We are by no means holding our breath for our little one to be the next SYTYCD (So You Think You Can Dance) winner. After all, did you see that 2 year old that was on! The experience Elle will have at APC (Audition Prep Camp) will be good for her in any case. Plus the child danced roughly 3 hours this last year as a 4/5 year old and still came home and danced around the whole house.<br />
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I think I was more nervous about it than Elle. I had been preparing her for a tough camp. <br />
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"You can't talk unless the teacher asks you a question or you have a question specifically related to what the teacher is doing, do you understand Elle?"<br />
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"Yes Mom."<br />
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"You can't whine."<br />
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"Okay Mom."<br />
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"You can't complain."<br />
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"Okay Mom."<br />
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"You'll have to work VERY hard and it may hurt a little."<br />
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"Okay Mom."<br />
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"Do you think you can do it?"<br />
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She took a deep breath with her eyes closed. Opened them back up and looked me square in the eye. "I'll do my best Mom."<br />
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Ugh! Melt a mama's heart!<br />
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I don't know how hard she worked yesterday but I know when I saw her she said she wanted to go back and I'm happy with that. The last thing I want is for me daughter to lose her passion for dance and I wasn't sure if after dancing for 4 hours in one day she'd still want to dance. Well apparently I had nothing to worry about because even after dancing for 4 hours in one day, she still came home and danced around the living room. Honestly kid.InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-13757168046105616492012-06-11T07:24:00.002-05:002012-06-11T07:24:49.326-05:00Where Have I Gone?Well, let me tell you. <br />
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Two weeks ago was spent preparing Elle and Gabe for their dance recital(s). With Elle dancing in 5 numbers and Gabe in three as well as teaching my own classes I felt a bit busy. It all went off wonderfully and my growing belly was thankful for it to be over. That whole weekend was filled with recital activities from Friday night to Sunday evening. So that pretty much took care of that week.<br />
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Last week was spent recuperating from the weekend. The kids were fantastic given the exhaustion they were dealing with and having Grandma and Grandpa around definitely helped. Of course we were also resting up for the next weekend and week. <br />
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<a href="http://joyfulnoisefamilyfest.com/" target="_blank">Joyful Noise Family Fest</a> was Saturday and with the forecast reading 90's and no clouds we needed to figure something out. Lost of water, sunscreen, and pre-resting as much as possible was the answer. It was well worth it to sit in the heat. The kids were phenomenal and aside from some minor pink shading we all walked away fairly unscorched. It was a great day for a bunch of outdoor concerts and the weather really was beautiful.<br />
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Yesterday we slept it. Yep, even the kids. Since we didn't get home until after 12 Saturday night we thought it best that we all rest a little. The kids slept until almost 10; Sunday miracle #1. Both, I repeat BOTH children woke with smiles on their faces; miracle #2. Then we rushed out the door to meet my parents, brother, and sister-on-law at Gabe's in St. Paul before the St. Paul Saints game. Another hot day outside and perhaps the prize wasn't as tempting (St. Paul Saints vs. Toby Mac). The Saints were ahead and the game was progressing so we left a little early. <br />
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So, we are still recovery from the last two weeks. Thank goodness this weekend has nothing on the docket. Kyle will be done with class attendance after this week for awhile and Elle has <a href="http://www.dancexchange.org/summer-schedule/" target="_blank">Audition Prep Camp</a> for dance Monday - Wednesday with auditions on Thursday (we'll see how that goes). Just gotta get through Thursday. I think I can, I think I can, I think I can....InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-60508941023560332042012-05-31T07:44:00.000-05:002012-05-31T07:44:09.213-05:00Here We GoThe festivities begin tomorrow!<br />
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Elle and Gabe have their dance recitals this weekend. Yes, multiple. It all begins tomorrow. Actually it started last night. Since Elle inherited my hair which holds curl for a whole 5 minutes I wanted to try something that would hold the curl for as long as possible without a hug hassle. We've done sock curls which last about 1/2 the day without hairspray or gel. Last night we tried actual rag curls.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiw4hJmDBsfvvcXWb9ZvoQUnZ29IAbYSHZSkzJlCKj2jzNzN9Hnr6vQscnePXbNDiMcYrIzWdtOnLXGfxPVHUJBuYnRVusdj7tzSlHmjGoVruVKRVAxkMtgzpHGVxJn9WmUQUwKdEQo4/s1600/Rag+Curls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiw4hJmDBsfvvcXWb9ZvoQUnZ29IAbYSHZSkzJlCKj2jzNzN9Hnr6vQscnePXbNDiMcYrIzWdtOnLXGfxPVHUJBuYnRVusdj7tzSlHmjGoVruVKRVAxkMtgzpHGVxJn9WmUQUwKdEQo4/s320/Rag+Curls.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I think she looks pretty cute like that. I slathered the gel on the hair, twisted and tied it up. Here's hoping its not a rat's nest this morning and lasts until at least 2.<br />
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Tonight is a run through of her make up. I realized in her pictures that my blond beauty just blends in to things which you'd think I would have known since I had to deal with it my whole childhood. So a bit of make up it is.<br />
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We also flipped her costumes with fluffy tutus up-side down so they would be nice and fluffy. It helps to take them out of the air-tight bag and let them breath. Tee-hee. I ironed Gabe's pants which will make no difference at all but more Gabe was getting neglected and it's his recital as well.<br />
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Like I said, the festivities start for us at 3:30 tomorrow afternoon with rehearsal. Then bright and early for a Saturday at 9:30 to help set up and whatnot. The first (yes, first) recital starts at 11 and both Elle and Gabe get to perform. They get the afternoon off with Grandma and Grandpa after that while Kyle and I work the second recital on Saturday. <br />
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Sunday we get to do it again but slightly later and with Elle only. Gabe will of course me there to cheer her on though just like last year when he yelled out, "Look! It's my Elle Belle!" Love it!<br />
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Surely after that we will all collapse but it will be great practice for parenting a competition dancer next year hopefully. That's right. This summer Elle will be auditioning for the first time for <a href="http://www.dancexchange.org/" target="_blank">The DanceXchange</a> Competition program. Kyle and I debating signing her up for auditioning even since she's only 5, will be starting school this year and a number of other reasons. Ultimately, when we realized that even Angelina Ballerina stopped dancing at home when she was in classes, clearly Elle was still not satisified in how much dance instruction she was getting 3 days a week since she was still dancing all around the house.<br />
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We have been with The DanceXchange for YEARS! I'm thinking its been about 6 or 7 years and I LOVE the owner and the instructors dearly. Not only do they know what they are doing but they are making huge investments in to these kids and they know it. While they take what they do seriously they also know how to have fun and help the kids enjoy themselves. Choreography is age appropriate and so are the costumes and that's hard to find now.<br />
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If you'd like to take a look at this amazing studio let me know, I'd be happy to give you a tour. I've had kids in lessons with them and I've taught. Or you can come check out the recital and see how all the hard work, for the students, staff and parents, pays off. Go to the <a href="http://www.dancexchange.org/spring-recital-info-and-ticket/" target="_blank">Recital Information Page</a> and buy your tickets there or at the door. <br />
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Not only would Elle and Gabe love to see you but so would I!<br />InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-50525337197224104182012-05-30T07:33:00.004-05:002012-05-30T07:33:48.464-05:00Nesting...AlreadyI may have gone a bit crazy last night.<br />
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Kyle and I have given some things to a newly married friend of ours. I should specify; young and newly married. We've all been there in life. Maybe not both at the same time but in a place where some one giving you a dining room table or a couch is exactly what you needed.<br />
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Last night we unloaded on to her a couch, a dining room table and a coffee table. They have all served us well but it is time for them to move on to their next home and I'm afraid this massive purge only swept me up into an even larger one.<br />
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I threw away a good portion of "stuff", assembled a bassinet that is on loan to us for Baby #3, completely decluttered my desk (even though its only purpose right now is holding on the "stuff" since I'm on hiatus from school), moved what baby girl clothes we have to the changing table we were blessed to acquire, moved the changing table to the kids' room, moved the couch that was in the kids' room to the living room so the changing table could go in the kids' room, moved our spectacular keyboard upstairs so an inspiring pianist can have weighted keys to practice and a full keyboard, and vacuumed.<br />
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Don't worry, the heaviest thing I lifted was the keyboard. Muscle showed up to move the furniture for the friend and my dear friend caught me in the midst of moving the other couch and stepped in immediately. THANK YOU!!!<br />
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The kids were a bit confused at first wanting to make sure we weren't getting rid of some of their prized possessions (i.e. Gabe's drums, their toys, etc.). After some of the furniture had been moved the kids seemed rather excited to stand in a space they hadn't been able to before, and I'm not speaking metaphorically. Interesting concept though huh; when something has been over a certain place in our lives for so long, how eager are we to just stand in that new unoccupied space and enjoy.<br />
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Anyway, all that to say, at about 8:45 when my oh-my-word-I'm-surely-going-to-fall-down-dead-right-here moment arrived I was amazed at all the nesting I've already done and only in my 4th month. So maybe, just maybe, despite the insanities this pregnancy has brought early on I'll be rather productive after all.InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-82491973780636783662012-05-29T07:27:00.002-05:002012-05-29T07:27:50.240-05:00I Did ItI stayed awake during the whole concert Friday night. Although it probably would have been fine if I had fallen asleep since the majority if those in attendance were over the age of 70 and a good portion fell asleep themselves. Oh well.<br />
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After the concert we headed over to <a href="http://sebastianjoesicecream.com/" target="_blank">Sabastian Joe's</a> for some ice cream and I had to get some coffee. I may have made it through the concert but it was just barely. We got home around 11:30. Whew!<br />
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When I woke up Saturday morning, I felt like I was hung over. Kyle said the ice cream was laced. As much as I would like to believe that instead of the fact that I just shouldn't stay up that late in my current state I think we all know the truth. <br />
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After teaching my last dance class for the year, and Gabe taking what will probably be his last dance class ever, we headed home, made a Target run, and enjoyed a rainy day instead. I needed to recuperate after my "late" night.<br />
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Monday we were up bright an early for church which was easy to do, okay easier than normal to do since the sun was shining away. The rest of Sunday was spent in the sun, then a break inside for cooling off, then back in the sun, then inside for dinner. The kids had a blast. Days like Sunday make me miss the pool we had in our backyard growing up. Though I don't envy the work my parents had to put in to it. Days like Sunday also make me realize what big babies my kids are around water. Swimming lessons may be in their near future.<br />
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Thank goodness for Monday off. It wasn't as if the weekend was so exhausting that I needed an additional day to recover but more that I have grown in my marriage and parental duties and would really rather spend my time with my family than my co-workers. Nothing against my co-workers since they are great sports and provide some outstanding laughs throughout the week; I just love investing in my family more.<br />
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Anyway, Monday was spectacular. Kyle and I slept late and while the kids ate breakfast and watch too many shows. Since that wonderful sun was shining again it got us outside. We left the house with no plan but knew the day couldn't be wasted. Kyle had a brilliant plan to go to <a href="http://www.themaltshoprestaurant.com/" target="_blank">The Malt Shop</a> for lunch and ice cream. Overwhelmed by the size of the salad the server placed before me it didn't take long for it to vanish; thank goodness. I think I even surprised Kyle with how much and how quickly I ate it.<br />
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Once our ice cream was delivered when headed outside for a short walk through the neighborhood (no way will I let me 5 year old and 3 year old eat chocolate ice cream cones in our new van). It was lovely and Elle and I had fun looking at the pretty houses, a moment I remember sharing many times with my mom. Once all signs of the ice cream were gone, well not all signs since Elle spilled all down her front and Gabe's ice cream ended up a dried mess all over his face, we headed back to the car.<br />
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We took a nice drive around Lake Harriet then headed to <a href="http://patricksbakerycafe.com/" target="_blank">Patrick's Bakery</a> in Edina. Yum!<br />
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We then headed home for some chalk on the driveway and almost got blown away. After awhile outside with the winds convincing us to head in, we obliged and decided to pop in a movie. Elle is wildly aware of my love for English classics. She has sat through 6 hours of Price and Prejudice many times and knows parts of Sense and Sensibility. I may have even let her watch some of Downton Abbey. I feel I may be setting her up for disaster when it comes to her own relationships as show grows older. If these are her princesses, so be it.<br />
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Gabe on the other hand has shown no acknowledgement of these movies. While he is typically in the room while Elle and I drown ourselves in these other worlds, he's playing with his super hero action figures or trucks. Yesterday, however, when we were selecting a movie Gabe of all people says, "you wanna watch sense and invisibility mom?" Now all Kyle and I heard was "invisibility" and didn't give it much though but he kept saying it. After about the 5th time we figured it out and when your 3 1/2 year old son asks you if you want to watch Sense and Sensibility how do you say no? Well you don't. I will warn you though, while your 5 year old daughter eats it up your 3 1/2 year old son will continue to drive his mackin carica (Captain America) motorcycle over your head and face until you tickle him incessantly. While this may be a riot for your and your 3 1/2 year old boy whose laugh could actually bring the sun out, your 5 year old daughter who is being jolted out of her wonderland will not appreciate it as much and will scold you and your son until you calm down.<br />
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Did I mention how much I laughed this weekend and how much I love my family?<br />
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Oh little Baby # 3 you have no idea the insanity you are getting in to.InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6782852715837907310.post-54478198822395778582012-05-25T09:10:00.001-05:002012-05-25T09:10:14.483-05:00I'm Still HereDon't worry I am still alive.<br />
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I've forgotten how exhausting pregnancy is. Okay maybe not pregnancy alone but pregnancy, a full-time job, a 5 year old and 3 year old, no husband Monday - Thursday, and all the other things life throws at us.<br />
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Last week was spent preparing for the neighborhood garage sale. I probably could have contributed more but all the proceeds were split. Half went to friends of ours who are adopting from Africa. The other half was given to the organization <a href="http://love146.org/" target="_blank">Love 146</a>. Love 146 fights against human trafficking and provides aftercare for those they are able to help. It's an incredible organization. After the preparation for the garage sale this week has been a lay low kind of week.<br />
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Not much has happened. When he sun was out, so were we. When it rained, we enjoyed some movies and games.<br />
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Tonight, Kyle is home and we are going to see the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. We haven't had a date night in awhile. Mainly because I'm the walking dead after 8:30. I don't make for very good company. I'm so excited for some time with just the two of us. <br />
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As a family we laugh a lot. Kyle and I laugh even more. When Kyle and I get to just be the two of us, it's pretty silly. I love laughing with my husband. I may be falling asleep while we're there, listening to Mozart, but sometimes that's just a recipe for more silliness.<br />
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I'll have to let you know how it goes.<br />
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What do you have planned for this long weekend?InsideTheCircushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02150672526605280189noreply@blogger.com0