
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Another Great Book
A few months ago I was wandering around Barnes and Noble looking for the perfect gift and saw a woman with a book cover and title that peaked my curiosity. So i went searching for it. The title is The Ten Habits of Happy Mothers. I was in a bit of a rush and just bought the book and moved on. Well, it turns out that it's a pretty darn good book! For any busy mom out there wanting a happier, healthier lifestyle this is a great reminder of things you already know but it puts it all in perspective in a easy to read format. It's one of those books that should probably be read about once a year just to make sure the suggestions in the book become habits! Check it out soon!

Wednesday, December 14, 2011
New Do!
We've been talking about getting Madelyn's hair cut short for a few months and she was totally up for it except she wanted Mimi to do it. Which is fine but that meant we had to wait for Thanksgiving for that to happen. So while she was visiting, we put her to work!

Look how long it's gotten
First cut
Sunday, December 11, 2011
American Girl Doll Dilema
I started this post months and months ago and never published it. I don't really know why. It seems a little silly to me but since the holidays are upon us I thought I would share this story.
Last winter, on the third day in a row of no school due to snow days, I got a little cabin feverish so Madelyn and I went to Oak Park Mall to do what girls do best, shop! Forgetting they have an American Girl Doll store and choosing that entrance to go in was a big mistake. Once we walked by "heaven on earth" for a little girl it was over. Her eyes sparkled, her lips sweetly saying, "pleeeeeze mama, can we pleeeeeze go in there?" I caved.
I admit, I have no idea what the American Girl Doll phenomen is. I read the books as a kid but didn't even know they made dolls. Madelyn has seen the dolls at friends houses and has always wanted one. I've tried to ask her what makes these dolls special and how do you know it is an AG doll. She doesn't really know.
Walking around the beautifully arranged dolls and accessories I was overwhelmed. First you have to pick a doll and then be prepared to drop an arm and a leg on just a doll! Then do you choose one of the characters or create one that looks just like you? The sheer volume of crap these dolls have to go with them is amazing! There is clothing, pajamas, jewelry, furniture, and even dogs. Oh and the dogs have their own accessories. I mean, who seriously thinks up this stuff? And if that's not enough they have their own salon for the dolls and different do's cost different prices!
After cruising through the store both of us were overwhelmed and I was so impressed my little girl looked around and commented on how pretty they all were but never once asked if we could buy one! Yeah, the frugal part of me was thinking I can go purchase a knock off and she'll never know the difference!
And that's where I was wrong. Somehow she is able to tell the difference. Someone at daycare has been bring their AG doll and that has only started Madelyn really wanting one. To which I promptly said they were really expensive and we should probably ask for one from Santa. So we've been bribing for a very long time for good behavior and good manners so that Santa will bring the AG doll.
Normally, I would never spend that much money on a doll. But that is the only toy she has talked about for months and months and she is our only child. So we did it. I drug Matt to the store last week. I giggled as I saw the look on his face after we arrived. I know he wanted to say, "Really, is this what I signed up for." Half way through the visit at the store, he found a couch and sat down. He couldn't handle it. And then at the check out when the super perky store clerk told me that the dolls have real wig hair so we needed the $8 brush to properly take care of their hair, he couldn't contain it. He was laughing so hard all the store clerks were soon laughing at him! Oh the joys!
So we are now proud new owners of Kit. Madelyn looks a lot like her with her new short haircut. And of course we had to get a dog named Sugar because that's Madelyn's nickname. We are so excited to see her face on Christmas morning!
Last winter, on the third day in a row of no school due to snow days, I got a little cabin feverish so Madelyn and I went to Oak Park Mall to do what girls do best, shop! Forgetting they have an American Girl Doll store and choosing that entrance to go in was a big mistake. Once we walked by "heaven on earth" for a little girl it was over. Her eyes sparkled, her lips sweetly saying, "pleeeeeze mama, can we pleeeeeze go in there?" I caved.
I admit, I have no idea what the American Girl Doll phenomen is. I read the books as a kid but didn't even know they made dolls. Madelyn has seen the dolls at friends houses and has always wanted one. I've tried to ask her what makes these dolls special and how do you know it is an AG doll. She doesn't really know.
Walking around the beautifully arranged dolls and accessories I was overwhelmed. First you have to pick a doll and then be prepared to drop an arm and a leg on just a doll! Then do you choose one of the characters or create one that looks just like you? The sheer volume of crap these dolls have to go with them is amazing! There is clothing, pajamas, jewelry, furniture, and even dogs. Oh and the dogs have their own accessories. I mean, who seriously thinks up this stuff? And if that's not enough they have their own salon for the dolls and different do's cost different prices!
After cruising through the store both of us were overwhelmed and I was so impressed my little girl looked around and commented on how pretty they all were but never once asked if we could buy one! Yeah, the frugal part of me was thinking I can go purchase a knock off and she'll never know the difference!
And that's where I was wrong. Somehow she is able to tell the difference. Someone at daycare has been bring their AG doll and that has only started Madelyn really wanting one. To which I promptly said they were really expensive and we should probably ask for one from Santa. So we've been bribing for a very long time for good behavior and good manners so that Santa will bring the AG doll.
Normally, I would never spend that much money on a doll. But that is the only toy she has talked about for months and months and she is our only child. So we did it. I drug Matt to the store last week. I giggled as I saw the look on his face after we arrived. I know he wanted to say, "Really, is this what I signed up for." Half way through the visit at the store, he found a couch and sat down. He couldn't handle it. And then at the check out when the super perky store clerk told me that the dolls have real wig hair so we needed the $8 brush to properly take care of their hair, he couldn't contain it. He was laughing so hard all the store clerks were soon laughing at him! Oh the joys!
So we are now proud new owners of Kit. Madelyn looks a lot like her with her new short haircut. And of course we had to get a dog named Sugar because that's Madelyn's nickname. We are so excited to see her face on Christmas morning!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Venting
I rarely talk about my job on this blog because I would hate for any parents to stumble upon this blog and be upset by anything school related. That being said, I have to vent. I will be leaving out details because I feel it is unfair to the student to say anything more.
Ten years of teaching in low income schools can become emotionally exhausting. Seeing children growing up the way they are, in the homes they are, is hard for me. I often want to wage a war against the parents of these children. That's where I'm at now!
I have this Little Darling, who is 9 years old. She is being neglected, I'd love to tell you more so that you could stand in my army fighting for her, but that's all I can say. I've had parents in for meetings, I've given resources, I've put procedures in place at school to make my Little Darling more successful. And nothing is working. The parents think we are harrassing them and I just want to scream at them to do their f***ing job and I'll stop. I've called SRS a lot this year. I've even sat with "my army" of school personel to make a group SRS phone call. And nothing is working. I just keep getting letters from SRS saying they aren't going to investigate. Now the parents are screening our school phone calls and things are getting worse, a lot worse. I'm about to unleash my wrath on the next person I speak to at SRS! When are they going to do something about this? How bad does it half to be? How could they let this continue happening? If this were their children how would they feel?
Bottom line, our system is broken, it's been broken for years. It's failing our children and I feel helpless.
Ten years of teaching in low income schools can become emotionally exhausting. Seeing children growing up the way they are, in the homes they are, is hard for me. I often want to wage a war against the parents of these children. That's where I'm at now!
I have this Little Darling, who is 9 years old. She is being neglected, I'd love to tell you more so that you could stand in my army fighting for her, but that's all I can say. I've had parents in for meetings, I've given resources, I've put procedures in place at school to make my Little Darling more successful. And nothing is working. The parents think we are harrassing them and I just want to scream at them to do their f***ing job and I'll stop. I've called SRS a lot this year. I've even sat with "my army" of school personel to make a group SRS phone call. And nothing is working. I just keep getting letters from SRS saying they aren't going to investigate. Now the parents are screening our school phone calls and things are getting worse, a lot worse. I'm about to unleash my wrath on the next person I speak to at SRS! When are they going to do something about this? How bad does it half to be? How could they let this continue happening? If this were their children how would they feel?
Bottom line, our system is broken, it's been broken for years. It's failing our children and I feel helpless.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Pause for Reflection
I love the holiday season, it is so warm and friendly and it's also a great time to pause and take a little time for reflection. Looking back at myself last year, I was unhappy, irritable, sad, and very quiet. Both my professional and personal life had me frustrated beyond belief and I had a very bleak outlook for the future. And although things were rough, with a lot of heartache and a little faith I'm in a good place now. Actually, not just a good place, a better place than in years. I have many things this Thanksgiving that I give thanks for:
1. To my husband: I've shared half of my life with you and this provides a kind of comfortablity that is necessary for a shy girl like me. You know it all about me, the good, the bad, and the ugly and you don't judge me for it. You push me, sometimes I don't like it, but I know it's good for me. You provide for our family, sometimes I really resent how much you work so I constantly have to remind myself you do it for us. You make me laugh and lighten my sometimes very serious mood. The struggles we've had have taught us valuable lessons, most importantly never take each other for granted.
2. To my mom: I love you. You attempted to raise Courtney and I basically by yourself while trying to hold down the fascade of a happy family. You taught us to be strong, independent women who could do anything a man could do and do it better. You taught us to cook, a skill which I find necessary each day. You taught us about forgiveness, even when it isn't deserved. You taught us the importance of friendship. I admire your strength and courage as you embark on a new journey.
3. To Madelyn: You taught me how to be a better person. Words don't express how much I love your little chubby cheeks and funny little personality. You amaze me with your knowledge and zest for life. I love that your girlie and yet sporty too. You love animals and reading which truly warms my heart. I hope that your life is full happiness and adventure. I love being your mom.
4. Faith: My relationship with God is something I've put on the back burner for years and often add it to my New Year's Resolution. But this year was different, I needed faith. I cannot begin to tell you how hard it is to lean on God through the rough patches when you have no faith. Fortunately, He is awesome and showed me the way. While going to church regularly is still a stretch for me I do read from the bible and spend time praying each day. I attribute my new found faith to much of the strength I've had to have throughout the year.
5. Our Family and Friends: Matt and I are blessed with lots of extended family and several different circles of friends. I would consider most of them the kind you could call in the middle of the night and they would come running to our rescue still dressed in their pj's. You all bring different strengths and qualities to our relationship. I wish that each of our busy lives allowed us more time for friends and I love each and everyone of you.
6. Our Health: We are so fortunate that God continues to bless each of us with good health both physically and emotionally. Over the past year the diagnosis of thyroid disease and Polycistic Ovarian Syndrome nearly sent me over the edge, I am thankful that both of those are fully treatable with a couple of prescriptions. We continue to hope that another baby will be in our future.
7. My Job: Honestly last year was rough, like "I should find a new career" kind of rough. And although things aren't perfect this year, I do have a beautiful class. I am enjoying them more than I have a class in a long while. I love that my job has security and offers my family some flexibility.
8. Our First Thankgiving Success: This year we hosted our families at our house and a success it was! Wonderful company with lots of quality time, good conversations, and lots of laughs. The food, oh the food. Beautifully smoked turkey done by my wonderful husband, all the fixings and side dishes to go with it, and spiked apple/pear cider. And then there was the desserts. Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, turtle cheesecake, and blueberry marble cheesecake, all of which were purely decadent. We even did a little Black Friday shopping. It was a lovely weekend!
There are many more things that I am thankful for including all of those that read this blog. Here's to a wonderful holiday season!
1. To my husband: I've shared half of my life with you and this provides a kind of comfortablity that is necessary for a shy girl like me. You know it all about me, the good, the bad, and the ugly and you don't judge me for it. You push me, sometimes I don't like it, but I know it's good for me. You provide for our family, sometimes I really resent how much you work so I constantly have to remind myself you do it for us. You make me laugh and lighten my sometimes very serious mood. The struggles we've had have taught us valuable lessons, most importantly never take each other for granted.
2. To my mom: I love you. You attempted to raise Courtney and I basically by yourself while trying to hold down the fascade of a happy family. You taught us to be strong, independent women who could do anything a man could do and do it better. You taught us to cook, a skill which I find necessary each day. You taught us about forgiveness, even when it isn't deserved. You taught us the importance of friendship. I admire your strength and courage as you embark on a new journey.
3. To Madelyn: You taught me how to be a better person. Words don't express how much I love your little chubby cheeks and funny little personality. You amaze me with your knowledge and zest for life. I love that your girlie and yet sporty too. You love animals and reading which truly warms my heart. I hope that your life is full happiness and adventure. I love being your mom.
4. Faith: My relationship with God is something I've put on the back burner for years and often add it to my New Year's Resolution. But this year was different, I needed faith. I cannot begin to tell you how hard it is to lean on God through the rough patches when you have no faith. Fortunately, He is awesome and showed me the way. While going to church regularly is still a stretch for me I do read from the bible and spend time praying each day. I attribute my new found faith to much of the strength I've had to have throughout the year.
5. Our Family and Friends: Matt and I are blessed with lots of extended family and several different circles of friends. I would consider most of them the kind you could call in the middle of the night and they would come running to our rescue still dressed in their pj's. You all bring different strengths and qualities to our relationship. I wish that each of our busy lives allowed us more time for friends and I love each and everyone of you.
6. Our Health: We are so fortunate that God continues to bless each of us with good health both physically and emotionally. Over the past year the diagnosis of thyroid disease and Polycistic Ovarian Syndrome nearly sent me over the edge, I am thankful that both of those are fully treatable with a couple of prescriptions. We continue to hope that another baby will be in our future.
7. My Job: Honestly last year was rough, like "I should find a new career" kind of rough. And although things aren't perfect this year, I do have a beautiful class. I am enjoying them more than I have a class in a long while. I love that my job has security and offers my family some flexibility.
8. Our First Thankgiving Success: This year we hosted our families at our house and a success it was! Wonderful company with lots of quality time, good conversations, and lots of laughs. The food, oh the food. Beautifully smoked turkey done by my wonderful husband, all the fixings and side dishes to go with it, and spiked apple/pear cider. And then there was the desserts. Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, turtle cheesecake, and blueberry marble cheesecake, all of which were purely decadent. We even did a little Black Friday shopping. It was a lovely weekend!
There are many more things that I am thankful for including all of those that read this blog. Here's to a wonderful holiday season!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Awesome Read
The book club I'm in read The Hunger Games last month and I was instantly hooked! The book is labeled young adult fiction and is an easy, fast read that keeps you turning pages to find out how it will end. The story is set in a fictionalized place called Panem, which was created after the destruction of our nations, and paints a very gloomy picture for it's residents. Katniss, the main character endures horrifying challenges which keep you rooting for her to win and gain revenge. After you're finished with this book, you'll need to keep reading to see what the future for Katniss, her family, and her love is, so check out Catching Fire and Mockingjay. These books have it all: family hardships, love, alcoholism, perserverance, and cruelty. I know you'll love them!
Friday, November 18, 2011
Soccer Again
We decided to attempt soccer again this year! We formed a team with the same friends that we played with in the past and if you don't remember how that season went, click here.
This season was success! Our kids were older, stronger, wiser, and followed directions so much better. Madelyn loved it! She jumped out of the car each time, ran way across the field to find her team, and left Matt and I in the dust! So much progress! She evened scored a goal the first game!!
Most of the time she was totally into the game and went after the ball at every chance. Sometimes she got a little distracted singing or watching her friends.

When it wasn't their turn to play, Gabby and Madelyn cheered on their teammates, loudly, very loudly!
Most of the time she was totally into the game and went after the ball at every chance. Sometimes she got a little distracted singing or watching her friends.
When it wasn't their turn to play, Gabby and Madelyn cheered on their teammates, loudly, very loudly!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Halloween Fun
Let the Halloween Festivities Begin... That is how I felt this year! Starting with the Trunk or Treat event at Matt's YMCA. It was a bit chilly that evening so my little miss wasn't so excited about walking around the parking and getting candy! I was a bit shocked but not going to complain. So we headed indoors for some halloween themed fun complete with spook house, pumpking bowling, face painting, and of course inflatables.
This is where we spent most of our time and since it was a huge event, I'm talking people EVERYWHERE, I was a little afraid to break out the camera.
Next up, pumpkin carving time! I ended up super sick so Matt and Madelyn had a little fun with some neighbors carving a kitty on our little pumpkin.
Then there was a mermaid. We had bought cute costume of Ariel that was ripped at the collar when we took it out of the sack and of course I couldn't find another one in her size. So, voila, a semi-homeade Ariel costume! And she LOVED it! I keep hearing, "Mommy, you're the best sew-er ever!" 
I was so proud of her going to all the houses by herself, saying trick-or-treat, and thank you. Candy is the best motivator! We met up with some friends later and ended up with an enormous bag of candy which we are still rationing!

Then there was a mermaid. We had bought cute costume of Ariel that was ripped at the collar when we took it out of the sack and of course I couldn't find another one in her size. So, voila, a semi-homeade Ariel costume! And she LOVED it! I keep hearing, "Mommy, you're the best sew-er ever!" 
I was so proud of her going to all the houses by herself, saying trick-or-treat, and thank you. Candy is the best motivator! We met up with some friends later and ended up with an enormous bag of candy which we are still rationing!Now that the chilly November air has set in we are gearing up for the holidays. I love this time of year!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Fall Fun
Fall is by far my favorite time of year!! I love the crafts, the colors, the smells, and the yummy treats. Here's a few of the things we whipped together around the Eaves' household in the last few weeks.
I bought these little wooden halloween decorations for Madelyn to color and she went nuts over them. She promptly sat down and colored all 5 of them in on sitting.
You gotta have a glittery pumpkin!
And a handprint butterfly!
Yummy ghosts and spiders to give away to friends. I think I spent the most time working on these while she and Matt sampled!
Halloween pictures coming soon!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Tired Dancer
We enrolled Madelyn in a dance class about a month ago and she LOVES, LOVES, LOVES it!! And so does Mommy! She looks so stinking cute in her little black leotard and skirt with pink tights and ballet slippers! Dance is on Thursday which is also a preschool day for her so this is what usually happens about five minutes out of the parking lot after class.
All the moms usually sit in the waiting room and watch through a window but tonight is watch week for parents. So more on dance coming up soon!
All the moms usually sit in the waiting room and watch through a window but tonight is watch week for parents. So more on dance coming up soon!Thursday, October 20, 2011
Red Barn Farm
For our annual pumpking picking venture we went to Red Barn Farm for some good family time. We got to pet some goats, ponies, and saw some noisy chickens. They didn't seem to have as much there to do as the patch we usually visit but the weather was beautiful and we accomplished our goal to find the perfect pumpkin!
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Our Fall Evenings
Our beautiful fall evenings have been filled with a little of this...
And a little of that...
This is the little one afraid to ride her bike down the sloping of the curb and onto the street, so she gets off the bike and walks it across the street every stinking time!! In the last week she has started to become a little bit more of a dare devil about it and is enjoying to go really fast and down slopes. I think she finally got all the coordination together, steering, pushing your feet forward, and watching where you are going. It's hard work! We are super sad to see the weather turning really chilly and hoping for a few more beautiful fall days!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Just Playing Around
A few weeks ago we were in Larned for Matt's class reunion. I'm sure he appreciates that I didn't give away how many years out he is!! Anyway, it was beautiful weather and Larned has a few spots that have painted murals around town. I thought I'd try a little photo shoot. Madelyn wasn't the most cooperative and the lighting wasn't great but I got a few cute ones. I have some others I'm editing but I'm slow, so here is a few for now.

Monday, September 26, 2011
Short Ribs with Wine SauceI'm always looking for new things to cook and as you know I love The Pioneer Woman. All of her recipes are fabulous and we have found a few absolute favorites. I tried this short ribs recipe this weekend and it is WONDERFUL!! Melts in your mouth, full of flavor, wonderful. Try it soon!
Friday, September 23, 2011
TMI
I've drank close to 70 ounces of cranberry juice, taken 6 cranberry vitamin pills, and guzzled a ton of water in the last two days. What do you think I'm dealing with? (besides a major sugar high!!)
P.S. I hate cranberry juice, even with sprite, or vodka.
P.P. S. Oh the joys of teaching, can't go to the bathroom when you need to.
P.S. I hate cranberry juice, even with sprite, or vodka.
P.P. S. Oh the joys of teaching, can't go to the bathroom when you need to.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Not again...
Little Miss Madelyn shared with me yesterday that the same boy from the previous post keeps telling her she is the prettiest girl in the word. Geez...
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Oh No She Didn't .....
Our car conversation yesterday afterschool...
Madelyn: "Today was the first time Barrett and I kissed each other on the heads!" (using her super sweet sugary voice)
Me: (delayed response, choking for words) "What did you just say?"
Madelyn: (slightly annoyed because she doesn't like to repeat herself) "Mom, I said, today was the first time Barrett and I kissed each other on the heads"
Me: "Oh!" (totally dumbfounded and thinking for the correct response, then I hear ...)
Madelyn: "But I knew my mommy wouldn't be mad because I am a genius!" (again in her voice that is dripping with happiness)
Me: Umm... (open mouth, no words)
In the end we did discuss how they kissed on the forehead and aren't ever, ever supposed to do that again. But when did my little one get such a confidence and attitude I'm wondering?! When did she learn what a genius was?
I also had a little fun with Matt. I texted him "catastrophe, call me asap." When twenty minutes went by and I hadn't heard from him, I had a little more fun. I texted "she kissed a boy!" That got his attention. His response, "NO SHE DIDN'T, WHAT THE SH**!" Boy that was fun for me!!!
Madelyn: "Today was the first time Barrett and I kissed each other on the heads!" (using her super sweet sugary voice)
Me: (delayed response, choking for words) "What did you just say?"
Madelyn: (slightly annoyed because she doesn't like to repeat herself) "Mom, I said, today was the first time Barrett and I kissed each other on the heads"
Me: "Oh!" (totally dumbfounded and thinking for the correct response, then I hear ...)
Madelyn: "But I knew my mommy wouldn't be mad because I am a genius!" (again in her voice that is dripping with happiness)
Me: Umm... (open mouth, no words)
In the end we did discuss how they kissed on the forehead and aren't ever, ever supposed to do that again. But when did my little one get such a confidence and attitude I'm wondering?! When did she learn what a genius was?
I also had a little fun with Matt. I texted him "catastrophe, call me asap." When twenty minutes went by and I hadn't heard from him, I had a little more fun. I texted "she kissed a boy!" That got his attention. His response, "NO SHE DIDN'T, WHAT THE SH**!" Boy that was fun for me!!!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
New Favorite!!
This is my new favorite book of "All Time." I cannot begin to tell you how wonderful this book is. Sarah's Key is takes place in Paris at the time of the Holocaust. It tells of a fictionalized story about a historical event that many people aren't aware of. Sarah, a innocent girl, endures great struggles after a tragic event in her life. From there her life was never the same. It also has a modern day story woven in that keeps you reading and reading until the two stories collide. Yes, it is a little sad, but it is a beautifully written story. Matt and I recently saw the movie and loved it despite the fact that it is in sub-titles! This is a must read!!Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Swimming Success
One last summer activity that we finished up in August was swimming lessons. We felt like Madelyn needed more exposure to the water and to learn the basics. So we signed her up at Matt's Y and on the first day found out our instructor was a boy. Uh oh! Fortunately, it only took her a few minutes to warm up to him and the rest of the kiddos. She learned how to scoop with her arms, kick with her legs, and lots more!

Wednesday, August 31, 2011
We have a Preschooler!
I can barely believe that she is in real school now! We are so excited, especially her. I took her to her open house last week and she was her normal shy self. I mingled around the classroom talking to the teacher, parents, and school nurse with her pretty much glued to my side for half an hour. She was definitely impressed with the elaborate house center and all the baby doll items!
So on the morning of the her first day we served up blueberry eggo waffles and milk, fixed her hair up in braided ponytails, and put on her new dress. Off she went to daycare for the morning and then Matt picked her up and took her to school. She was excited! At one point she told him that she had been waiting to get homework since she was two. We found out that her preschool teacher also went to the same daycare she goes to and that makes her feel special.
I can't wait to see what the future holds for you Sugar!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Things that make you go hmmm...
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Garden Woes
As if a zillion days straight of 100 degree heat wasn't enough, now I'm dealing with these enormous tomato worms! I killed, okay maybe I made my muscular husband kill them. Them?? Oh yes, them. FOUR of them!! They treated my garden like an all you can eat buffet while I wasn't looking. But, I got 'em in the end and I'm taking back what's left of my garden!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)







