Monday, December 10, 2007

Summer in December

Today was one of those days that could've turned out crummy, but actually turned into an unexpected blessing. Emily is still running a fever, so I stayed home with her to take her to the doctor. Sure enough, one sinus infection and a prescription later, and problem solved. We got home right as she fell asleep for her afternoon nap.

Quite unexpectedly I found myself home on a Monday, with a sleeping Emily, most all housework done, and my MIL at an orientation for her new job. Fabulous! Not to mention the high today was 80. I opened all the windows in the house, and then changed into my summer uniform of jean shorts, flip-flops, and a t-shirt. Yes, it is December, but when it is that warm with 90% humidity, that's what I where.

I spent a couple of hours outside at the patio table catching up on the bible study that I was worrying about finishing. It was fabulous. Hopefully we will get some cold weather in Bakersfield so that it will really seem like Christmas. :)

Sunday, December 09, 2007

My tough kid

For those who haven't experienced Emily, she is a very tough kid. She knows no fear, and there isn't much that stands in her way of experiencing life. She isn't afraid of swimming pools, loud fire trucks, or riding horseback. Sometimes this fearless tough attitude really freaks me out! The full effect of Emily's toughness was in full effect this week.

Wednesday night Emily got sick. Some sort of viral stomach thing we guessed. Every time she was "sick" it would be really horrible... one of those things parents loath, as being unable to comfort. When each occurrence was over, she made some comment like, "I think I should go the doctor mom." Then she was off playing again. God must have figured I could never handle watching my child in pain, because my kid just shrugged her shoulders and off she went. No whining, no crying, no drama. I stood amazed, remembering all the times I (even as an adult) would be so disgusted and teary-eyed after vomit. (such a gross word)

Finally one last thing I'm reflecting on in regards to my kick-butt toddler. We were outside today (in shorts and t-shirts in the 78 weather) playing and Em was walking down the stairs from our kitchen to our back yard. She fell down and ended up flat on her back at the bottom of the three stairs, laying on the brick patio. Since she is laying on her back, she looks up and sees me. I must of looked horrified, because she immediately popped up, saying "I'm okay mom. See? No boo boos! It's okay mom, really!" Thanks for the comfort, I guess. I really love our tough kid.

Sunday, December 02, 2007

Elf on the Shelf


Last year a friend showed me this book, The Elf on the Shelf. It comes with an elf, and the idea is Santa sent the elf into the family's home to watch the children and to make sure they are not naughty. Then, after everybody goes to bed, the elf flies all the way to the North Pole each night to report to Santa. Then when he flies back, he sits in a different place, hiding. When the child(ren) wake in the morning, they must find the elf.

Scott and I have had some fun to say the least. This was one of my favorite hiding places for little "Alex" the elf. (The book tells you to name him... and Emily chose Alex.)

Fun fun fun. Emily thinks this is great. I guess it will be a new holiday tradition in our home.