Notes from a tired momma

So it's midnight. The house is beginning to come together again. The attrocious kitchen has been put back together and is near immaculate. The children are in bed, homework is done. The baby is fed, bathed (dinner did NOT go so well), laundry has been started in preparation for the next day (uniforms still need done). Litterbox has been cleaned, trash is out, finally a moment to myself.

Don't get me wrong, I love my life, and know that God has given me what He knows that I can handle, but sometimes, I just don't think I'm strong enough. I have found myself in the same conversation several times, people being jealous that I am married with a child, a house of my own, and again, I am very grateful for what I have, but often feel the analogy of hair ringing in my ears. Those who have curly dream of straight, those who have straight dream of curly. The life of a single person is hard, yet rewarding. That is the road of a mother and wife as well...And how do you ever find the time?!

We went to have one year pictures taken of Gianna for birthday invitations, and I asked the wonderful Sears photographer if she could sneak in a couple of the kids ;) I was very glad she let me. Unfortunately, Gianna had been sick with a fever for nearly a week (darn teeth and allergies), so she was not quite full of the smiles we hoped for. Still cute. We spent a little more than planned, but now have the copyrights to the pictures and can go in for buy one get one pictures and a free 8X10 whenever we want. Worth it in the end. It's so hard to watch them grow so fast. Definately starts to give you baby fever again... I feel myself sad that I did not caption the moments more on film or paper. Alas...

Speaking of, I would LOVE ideas on cakes or decorating if anyone has any they would love to share!

Gianna now has four teeth...we are waiting for the next two to pop in any day now. She has reached the first temper tantrum stage, many more to come I am sure. I am trying to wean her from mommy milk, and she is not liking that. She has also gained a new-found adversion to textures in baby food: noodles, rice, etc. She does not have a problem with human food of this sort, but doesn't like it in the baby food. Help? Suggestions anyone? She scoots it all to the front of her mouth and gives the worst face while squealing...truly something. We will have to try some trickery.

She is getting better at standing on her own, though she still is not found of it. She would much rather crawl and hold on to anything she can. She loves listening to music still, and I recently found a series of CD's that is perfect for her! I found them at Family Christian Store if anyone is interested. Four CD's for 12.99...can't beat that! She also LOVEs playing in pillows. This evening I found her banging on brother's door wanting him to come out! How cute...

Our neighbors brought their new lab down to visit this evening. Gianna was a little unsure, but giggled like crazy as he licked her face. I told Jes this could satisfy his dog craving! Needless to say, he was not convinced.

She is full of words. She is now saying "bye bye", "hi", "po" for please (more please), "Aaaaye Duh" for all done (a personal favorite), "mama", "dadda", "bubba", "uh oh", and occasionally she will attempt "I don't know", although it comes out more like "Aye duh doda" (adorable ;) She signs most of those words as well as milk and food and "oh no". Amazing what they learn.

The older two begin week number two of school and soccer. Jury is still out on St. Francis beginning to switch for three classes starting in the third grade. Opinions? I can see the benefits, but still think it is way too early. Homeschooling is looking better and better for Gianna ;)

I am also still researching cloth diapers. I have SO many questions though...and I wonder if there really is savings with the first child. The idea of making my own sounds very appealing though, I despirately need something to do for myself, project-wise. And I wish I could sew better, but there is only one way to learn!

We should hear back on Jes's job on Friday, prayers would be greatly appreciated.

I have been missing Colorado a great deal lately. Especially with the cool weather, I just step outside and miss the sound of the river, the mountains, the smells. There is just a peace there that I don't seem to have here. Perhaps it is just association with vacation...maybe one day.

I should call it a night...I have the early shift in the morning (kids that is :) Sleep well all.