I know how Dr. Frankenstein felt

I've spent quite a bit of time jokingly telling those who know me that my idea of the perfect retirement is to learn how to make Raggedy Ann dolls and pass them out to the little girls of the world.  I never really thought I would actually do it.  I have several patterns for making a Raggedy Ann doll but have you seen the hair?  So hard to do.  I could never do something like that.
Then one day I did it.  I made a Raggedy Ann doll for myself.  I wanted to take her to the Raggedy Ann Rally and was so proud of myself for making a doll.  I love her!  One of a kind!
After a series of unfortunate events (yeah, I stole that title), I found myself wondering if I could do it again. Could I make another doll?  Could I actually make a doll to sell?  Well, there is a parable that Christ told. Synopsis was that you should develop your talents, put them to use, learn and keep learning and you will be blessed.  I always thought I had two talents: talking and singing.  I didn't really imagine that I could do anything else.  But as I've done this thing, started making these dolls, started using my sewing machine on a daily basis, I've been blessed.  I've seen my creativity grow and I've found JOY in creating these dolls.  I've always enjoyed creating: song, blankets, food, drawing, writing.  I love the "productive feeling" when you create something tangible and have it in front of you.  Well, now I've discovered a new way to create and let my artistic side thrive.  So I've made 5 dolls so far and have several more in line. I've made a camel that goes with the Raggedy Ann story: Camel with the Wrinkled Knees.  And I'm working on another character as well as an Andy.  We'll see what happens and as of right now, I'm not really making dolls for all the LITTLE girls in the world but I know several collectors who have enjoyed their new doll a great deal.

another school year begins

The kids started school today and I've had a lot of thoughts about it.  I always love them starting school, having time to themselves away from siblings, something to keep them busy and occupied, a chance for them to grow.  But it is also hard to let go.  To watch them get on the bus and go off to be another year older, another year bigger, another year wiser, another year closer to growing up.  It's hard.  I posted this story on facebook last night and wanted to keep it on the blog for posterity.  It's a testament to being so proud of my children and yet, my heart feeling the weight of their worries.
Clothes are set out for tomorrow. Bookbags are ready. Lunches are packed. Everyone got a Father's blessing before bed. Izzy comes out and says "Mommy, please come talk to me in my bedroom" As I follow her in, she begins to cry that she is scared and nervous and she "forgot to sharpen a pencil for her desk at open house last week". I hug her, kiss her and tell her "Mommy left a sharpened pencil in your pencil case. It's all ready for you." I'm so excited for them to start school tomorrow but I'll be honest, I cried when I came out of her room. Letting go is the hardest part.
Also, here are the pictures....First Day pictures!  Fun, fun!

 

Reflection of a mom the week before school starts

 I am HAPPY and EXCITED for my kids to start school.  Sometimes I think that makes me a bad mom b/c I like for them to be gone during the day BUT let me clarify: I love my children.  I love being around them.  And I don't like that they are growing older and more independent.  But I also love that they get away from their siblings and gain independence and discover themselves as they are. I love that they have school friends and learn new things.  I love that they have time away from me b/c while I am their biggest cheerleader, I'm sure I'm their toughest critic b/c I see so much of what they can become.  I love that they have a chance to experience the world but still are in a safe environment.  Yes, schools are not what they used to be.  Yes, schools have had frightening experiences of late. But school is where our children grow, learn to stand on their own and not rely on parents so much.  School is where are kids discover that they can, they will, and they have potential to be.  So while I love my babies, I am excited for them to start school next week.  They are such amazing little people and I can't wait for more people to see them as I do. 

summer work is hard to do

Sammy was working in a summer workbook that we have each year. He is required to do one page of work each day for the whole summer.  Two days ago his workbook had the following story and questions.
"Sandra's mom offered to help her get ready for the new school year.  Sandra grew a full inch over the summer. Her shoes were too tight, and her pants were almost above her ankles."
"What do you think Sandra and her mother will do?"  Sam's answer: Put her on a diet.
"Which clues helped you decide?"   Sam: That's how you get unfat.
A part of me was sad that he wrote this b/c I've been pretty hard with him this summer about his weight but another part of me laughed b/c it is kinda cute.

Also, this week was the Cub Scout Raingutter Regatta. It is a double elimination race.  Last year, Sam lost his first race and then sat in the back and cried the rest of the evening.  This year, he lost his first race but came back to win and place 2nd in the Bear Den.  I'm so excited to see how he's grown.
I love this first picture b/c if you look in the background you will see Kalen helping Sam blow his boat...super cute b/c they do not always get along as brothers.

Last week, Kalen and Daddy finally got to have a one-on-one date.  They went to see Planes 2: Fire and Rescue. Kal really enjoyed his time with Daddy just the two of them and I think they both needed it.  Kal is our firecracker and he and Kurtis butt heads often.  They both enjoyed their time together.  It was sweet.
Kalen also started something fun two weeks ago when he started soccer.  At first I was worried that this would be a waste of money (Sam did not enjoy soccer and we didn't even try Izzy) but Kalen seems to love it and Zeke is starting to pretend and kick a ball around too!  We might end up with 2 soccer players.  Kal loves getting his gear on and going to practice and it's great for him to get out his energy!

 Lastly, Isabel got a manicure and pedicure for the first time last week.  There is a new place opened up for girls 3-14 years old to go get pampered, a spa.  They also offer a mommy/daughter package and I'm hoping that maybe for Christmas we'll get a treat.  She loved it and had so much fun being spoiled.

Lastly Zeke is just cute.  He likes to kick balls around the house and he is talking more.  He has started to hit back when he gets mad and he really knows how to throw a fit....typical toddler but I just love him!