Rectangles vs. Circles

So, I don't know who has the magic recipe for getting children to work. The only magic I can find that really works with my kids is the kind that jingles. Therefore, today when I wanted the kids to clean their room (it was at red alert level) I offered them money for each job that they completed. "Mom," Ben asked "are you going to give us the rectangle money or the circle money?"
"Uhh. . . the circle money."
"Ah, man!"
Apparently Ben has been learning some math in school. He finally figured out that quarters aren't the best things there is. Good thing school is out for the summer. Maybe he'll forget and go back to getting excited over the circle money . . . maybe.

Kindergarten Graduation for Ben

What could be more important than kindergarten graduation? Ben made it through his first year of school and he did it with style all his own. He isn't my little boy anymore (he reminds me of that every time I try to smother him with my motherly affection). He is energetic as any boy could be, but his heart of gold stays true. He is a wonderful big brother and a vital part of our family function. I have missed him this year. I always thought it would be a relief to have one less kid at home. Instead I discovered that I had to take on extra when it came to Rachel and Emily. Ben really takes care of them well. I will be glad to have him home for the summer. Congrats to Ben for surviving kindergarten. We love you!

HUH?

Huh? That and a whole lot of stifled laughter is what came out of my mouth when I read a little essay that Ben brought home today. See if you can pick out why I am left confused.



You guessed it. I was somewhat surprised to discover that Ben's grandparents all died. What a tragedy. I called Nathan and read it to him (secretly so Ben couldn't hear us) and we both had a jolly laugh. Poor dead grandparents. (I think he was probably referring to his great grandparents. We don't use the word grandparents too often.)

What Boys Dream About

I shook Ben awake this morning. He opened his eyes and looked around, then heaved a sigh. "I was having the best dream last night."

"What was your dream about?"

"I was a hot wheels car and I was racing another hot wheels."

"Wow. Pretty cool."

"Yea."

Boys have the best dreams.

Four!

Some of you may be surprised to hear that Nate and I golf. Well, to tell you the truth, I am practically a pro. I did take a golf class during the summer of 1996. So, for our date on Saturday, we decided to go to the driving range at Cascade Springs. Surprisingly, even after twelve years, I still remembered how to hold the club and swing. Unfortunately, 90% of my hits went straight into the fence next to the driving range. Oh well. There is more good news. Nathan sucks at golf too(95% of his hits went into the fence) so we are on even ground. I think we will go play a round soon, just because there is a remote chance I might actually beat him at something and I love to rub it in when that happens.

(The next morning.)

Nathan said I lied on my last blog and that I have to come clean. When I said he hit the fence 95% of the time that may have been a small exaggeration. He did hit the fence some of the time. He also hit some that were pretty darn good. Sorry husband. I just want to look good. :) I still think I might be able to beat you on the golf course though.

My Favorite Day of the Year

I woke up this morning to a baby's cry . . . and the knowledge that I didn't have to take care of it. I heard the call of "I'm hungry." I just stayed in bed, while Nate closed the bedroom door. I smelled the aroma of french toast wafting up the stairs and I just waited for it to be brought to me. The kids were rowdy in church and I took Emily for a walk outside. We went on a picnic and Nathan got all the food ready. The kids are crying downstairs giving Nathan a miserable time and I am up here writing this blog. Will I end my Mother's Day early and help him out? I don't think so. Happy Mother's Day.

Happy Mother's Day to My Mom!

A mother's job never ends. I can attest to that. In January I had to have surgery. Nathan's parents and my parents dropped everything and came right up to Ogden. I was really grateful for all of them, but I got the most comfort from my mom. I know, I am 32 years old. I should have grown out of needing a mom, right? Well, I haven't. When my mom got there I was just starting to wake up. She came over and took my hand and and stood by me for awhile. I don't remember much about that day, but I remember that because it brought me so much peace. So to my mom I say, I love you and yes, I still need you. Happy Mother's Day!