Saturday, December 19, 2015

Why we believe in Santa


When I was little, Christmas was a two week long festival. Our decorated house was comparable to the Griswolds and our home was loud and always full of people. My parent's had a plastic table cloth on our usual bare dining room table everyday from mid December until New Years day. They had coffee Christmas cups and Christmas plates stacked on the table with creamer and sugar and lots of Christmas cookies for all our friends and family that would stop by. Christmas music always played on the radio. As each night everyone would sing Christmas carols, tell stories of Christmas past, and indulge in typical everyday conversations. Even the little kids sat around the table with all the adults and were part of the love.

When I was very little, Santa arrived on Christmas Eve to deliver our presents. We would have dinner at my grandparent's house and upon arrival back home, Santa would be sitting in the rocking chair with presents surrounding him. Santa, of course, was my poppy (the one who left dinner early to get a head start). Our thoughts of Santa were that he was a jolly, kind fellow, who had the soul of a saint. My brother and I would flock to him without hesitation, as we would talk about our Christmas wishes. He stayed until all our presents were opened and hugged us goodbye as he rode off in his sled, back to the North Pole.

I could remember being older and trembling with excitement as I patiently waited to fall asleep on Christmas Eve. The evening took FOREVER to pass and when I was finally dressed in my Christmas jammies, I couldn't stop the nervous jitters, as I lied in my bed. Before we were able to read, my mom would read us Christmas stories and even as I aged, I then read myself Christmas stories. Eventually, Christmas morning arrived and Santa never disappointed.

When I look back over my childhood memories of Christmas, the parts most prevalent are not of all the toys, but the magic behind it all. The routine of friends and family gathering, the colorful Christmas lights shining in the background, Christmas music on loop, and wonderful conversations with lots of food. To me, believing in Santa meant believing in the magic that made Christmas so joyful. The anticipation of a generous man stopping in our home to bring us presents and believing in something bigger than just December 25.

The proof in that statement is evident when I stopped believing in Santa. I still received present from my parents, however, the joy was all gone. There wasn't a surge of jitters on Christmas Eve. The excitement fell to the waste side. It turned out, Christmas was just December 25. A holiday where family gathered together like all the other holidays, but nothing more.   

However, the magic eventually revived itself when my children were born. Each Christmas, I am able to relive those same feelings I had when I was a child. The joy and anticipation on Christmas Eve is just as prevalent now as it was then. Anymore, Christmas isn't just another day, it's magic again.

Santa is the main event in my home for my two children. We decorate the entire house the week before Thanksgiving and our tree and village is set up the Saturday after. Christmas music is on loop and our doorways are strung with green garland and encapsulated with colored lights. And each of us has a decorated tree in our bedrooms. If I close my eyes long enough, I feel like I am a child again myself. 

Presently, we continue the same traditions with my children, that we had when I was a child. My parents and brother come over to my home for Christmas Eve dinner. But before dinner, my children and I have the laptop open to the Santa tracker and we watch as he travels over the areas. I tell them he's getting close and he'll be here after they're both sound to sleep. Our conversation becomes interrupted by the sound of sleigh bells outside our door. Both of my children pause, trying to absorb what they're hearing, then quickly glance back at the tracker. We all run to the door, already knowing what to expect, as we see Santa standing there with a sack of toys. (Santa, being my brother, who is kind enough to continue the tradition). He tells them he was off delivering presents, but saw how beautifully our home was decorated and wanted to stop by to see both of them, while they were awake. He sits on the couch and talks with both children about what they wanted. (We never mention the good and bad concept, I'm not fond of that idea). He hands them some wrapped packages and stays until they are opened. He bids them farewell and tells them to sleep well, and leave lots of milk and cookies, because he'll be back in a few hours.

*We were actually going to stop doing the Santa arrival this year, because we were worried my daughter would know it was my brother. However, my daughter has talked so much about how she hopes Santa stops by to see her and her brother, because she loves him so much. So, we decided to do it again. Although, Santa will be wearing some sunglasses and a higher beard to block most of his face.*

They then dress in their Christmas jammies and are read countless Christmas stories, before awaiting the arrival of the big morning surge...

In addition to the magic of Santa, this year, I've also added even more magic to the season. We have two kindness elves that have arrived, a boy and a girl. They are here to help my children continue to appreciate all the non materialistic things that life has to offer. The elves also used their elf magic to build a door that allows them access in and out of our home, so they can return back to their own home at night and spend time with their loved ones. Unlike the elf on a shelf, these elves do not get into mischief, but instead, encourage helpful, kind, and thoughtful behaviors. They are allowed to be touch and even encourage lots of hugs and kisses. They are not in our home to spy on my children and report back to Santa, but instead, are here to join our family and celebrate the Christmas season with us. 


In our family, the same traditions are passed down from each generation. And I'm sure when my children look back upon these years, they'll remember the love that was shared, not just how much they received. Toys are only a small bonus for Christmas. To my children, it's the decorating, the cookie making, the elves arriving, the anticipation, the joy of seeing Santa, and all the family and friends stopping by to spend quality time with us. Christmas is a feeling that you get around the middle of December. It's not something you can touch or see. It's within you. Additionally, it's something I want my children to always have. To have the mindset to believe in something that they cannot see, but feel in their hearts. And when they grow older and stop believing in Santa, I'm sure they won't feel like they were lied to, but instead, they'll know the magic of Santa has always existed. 

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Mid Week Revelation: Exemplary hearing sense

Being a mother has heightened my hearing sense to a whole different level. From a dead sleep, I not only can hear every detailed noise from my children, but I can also hear a candy wrapper being opened from a completely different floor... Motherhood.

Thursday, December 10, 2015

Ghost of librarys past


We entered the double doors, hand in hand, not minding the passerbys as we skipped our way through the corridor. Slowing our pace once our feet touched the worn carpet below. The library always has a wonderful vintage scent and everyone is quiet, too quiet. The only sounds heard are those of typing fingers and of books being heavily placed onto tables. My son and I quietly scooted past the adults section, walked through the doors into the sealed off children's room. This room has a much different lively feeling. Very colorful, and no adults glaring in our direction. My son immediately breaks free of my hand and runs down the isle, reaching his favorite section. He scans each row of books, hunting for the precise book he wants. He can't read, but he's familiar with the general whereabouts of his interested books. 

It doesn't seem that long ago, when my daughter and I would burst into this same section of the library, like she was entering Disney for the first time. We would spend countless hours just sifting through books and playing with the tall cardboard blocks. I would read the random books that she would hand me. We would finish some, but most of the time she would walk off and become distracted by another book. I could still picture her gently rocking back and forth as she was captivated by a book she pulled from the shelf.

Today, my son and I stand in that same section, while she's away at kindergarten. She's off with her friends, creating new memories in a completely different library, away from mommy. I have a hard time moving on from past memories. They seem to come and go so quickly, I hardly have time to enjoy them. My daydream was interrupted by my son handing me a Pinkalicious book and says, "read this one mommy." I smile at the precious little boy that stands before me and I nestle closely into him, as I gladly continue the circle of our library experience. Holding onto the opportunity as long as I can.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Mid Week Revelation: Cookie thief

I'm incredibly grateful that my children would both choose fruit and veggies over a cookie any day. However, I wish I had that kind of behavior. I wouldn't only take the cookie. I'd take the entire batch and hide in the closet and quickly eat them all by myself. So subconsciously, I may have instilled those habits on them to save more cookies for myself... Motherhood.

Sunday, December 6, 2015

A day away brings forth a revelation


I quietly packed a bag as I maneuvered myself around my home, trying my hardest not to be seen by my children. The phone rung in the background and I immediately opened my hand, dropping the contents on the floor, as I reached for the phone. My mom called, asking to speak with my daughter to invite her over for the day, after previously confirming the details with me... She eagerly obliged. 

When she was younger, she always went to their house for daily trips and random sleep overs, with just the three of them. They were known as, Nana and Poppy days...

I continued packing the day bag for her to take along, until my son walked up behind me and asked what I was doing. I tried my best to change the subject or distract him from the bag, not knowing for sure what his reaction would be if he knew.

Within minutes, my german shepherd was barking at the back door in excitement as my parents walked up the driveway. Both my children ran their little legs down the stairs to the back door in seconds flat, only stopping once caught by nana and poppy's arms.

My son immediately asked why they were there, looking confused and a little worried. My daughter instinctively said she was going to spend the day with them (Without hesitating because her brother never minded previously). My son replied back, "I'm going too?" Then, my mom answered, "not today." It was in that moment, my son broke down crying. It wasn't a tantrum crying because he didn't get his way. Instead, it was a heart broken cry. I assume because it's been months since he has went anywhere without her and he's also getting older now. We all stood around him as his sister hugged him tightly and told him how much she loved him. She rubbed his back as he cried and told him funny jokes, just trying to cheer him up. Then she turned to her nana and poppy and asked if he could join them on their Nana and Poppy day. My parent's answered yes, without question. Hearing that, his little red eyes perked open and his mouth widened with joy. He clapped his hands together and squeezed his sister tighter.

I helped them into their car seats, as I said my goodbyes, kissing and hugging them a few dozen times too many. As they drove down the driveway, I waved my hand, watching the smiles on both my children's faces grow, as their car faded down the street.

I stood there in the freezing cold, with my bare feet touching the concrete and goosebumps on my exposed arms. I was incredibly proud of my daughter. She's always with her brother, every minute of everyday. And she looks forward to this special time away from us, with her beloved nana and poppy. However, her love for her brother is much deeper than a single day away. In the end, she choose her brother's feelings over her own. And I was speechless in that moment, when I realized she is only 5 years old.

When they arrived back home, a few hours later, I ran to the car. I was beyond excited to see my two favorite people in the world. My son sat in his car seat all proud and happy -he's never spent a whole day away from me prior. And my daughter was just as happy as him. She hugged him again and said she had the best day with him and she wouldn't have enjoyed a single second of it without him. He said, "thank you" and told her that he loved her.

I hovered in the background, watching this unbelievably precious moment unfold before my eyes...

The beginning was a rocky start for these two. My daughter had a very hard time adjusting to sharing me with her new brother and didn't like that this new baby was staying. But as time passed, relationships formed. And right now, in this very moment, that little boy means more to her than anyone or anything else... They are more than just brother and sister, they are best friends. And I'm the lucky mom who gets to witness them together.


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Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Mid Week Revelation: How many is too many questions?

I'm not sure if there is a maximum allowance of questions toddlers can ask in one day, but if there is, I'm pretty sure my son is exceeding it... Motherhood, it's not for the weak.

Saturday, November 28, 2015

Oh Christmas tree... Oh Christmas tree.


Each strand of light was tightly wound around the tree. Each garland piece was delicately placed on branches. And, each ornament was strategically placed on every end, keeping the favorite ones in the front. Then after the masterpiece was concluded by two small children, who wanted to put the Christmas tree up over a month ago, we set up the village... And my son and daughter did a beautiful job with that too. My daughter must have laid out several different patterns of placement before she finalized the last one. Then one by one, both children eagerly unwrapped each tree, accessory, and glass people from years past newspaper. So much love and heart goes into decorating the tree and village. Each piece has a memory and a story. And I cannot wait to tell it, every year. My Christmas tree is the same one my grandparents used in their house in the 1960s. The ornaments are from when I was a child and the village was my parents, with the people and accessories from both my grandparents and parents...

Before children, I still decorated the same way as today. I have always enjoyed decorating the house like the Griswolds, both inside and out. And, there is something magical about staring down into a Christmas village. But, now with my children older, I absolutely adore decorating even more. To me, there isn't a wrong way to decorate and I enjoy watching both children randomly place ornaments on the tree and place the glass people in spots they think needed them. It's a completely different perspective from me and I embrace it. Even if the barn is right next to the houses, instead of off by itself and 5 ornaments share a branch. Christmas is completely for the children and I love that my children have a colorful house fully decorated for the season.

Thursday, November 26, 2015

A thankful Thanksgiving


The holiday table was set and the smell of turkey permeated in the background. Christmas music was softly playing on an old fashioned radio that was nestled into the corner of the kitchen counter. My parents were hovered over the stove, completing the finishing touches on all the dinner sides. I pushed my way through to make the homemade gravy, while both of my children rode their big wheels around my parent's home, only stopping to deliver mail to all of us workers in the kitchen. My husband set up shop in front of the television, watching football games and snuggled himself under the heavy blankets. My children would drop mail on his belly as the looped around the home, screeching the tires around the corners. Their voices becoming louder with their happiness increasing. 

We sat down to a full table of wonderful home cooked food and enjoyed great conversations with loved ones and listened to Thanksgiving stories from my daughter. My son also chimed in with random thoughts that he added to her stories. We clanked glasses as my children said "cheers" a few dozen times and we passed around food to fill our plates. We all had individual conversations going on at the same time and our volume gradually increased as we attempted to talk over each other.  

While sitting around a beautifully decorated table full with some of the most important people in my life, I smiled, as I was overcome with happiness. I realized how big my children had become each year and how adult-like they now appear. They contributed to the conversation, instead of just being asked about. Maturity and growth happened among everyone this year. My parent's just celebrated being together for 50 years, my brother just turned 36 years old, and my german shepherd turned 9 years old. 

These moments are the ones that keep me thankful and grateful. Thankful for the love that is in my life and grateful for the wonderful people who complete it. I am beyond grateful and thankful for the opportunity to watch my children change and grow, right before my very eyes. And the immense love I receive from them daily.

From my family to yours... Happy Thanksgiving!

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Mid Week Revelation: Not a morning person

There is nothing in this world more precious, than waking up to overly happy children who are both more than eager to start the day... 
Unless it's 5:30 am.

Sunday, November 22, 2015

A mommy and her daughter


I sat with my back firmly against the bench, as I placed my feet into my skates. My daughter danced like a ballerina in front of me, as she twirled on her skates, eagerly waiting for me to snap my last strap. I stood a little uneasy for my first time in years. I looked more like a baby calf standing for the first time. The smell of stagnant air and feet lingered in my nose and the decor was still set in the late 1970s. My daughter reached for my hand and helped me to my feet. Then assisted me to the rink. It only took a few laps to get my sea legs back, but when I did, I was able to keep up with my little derby girl. We lapped the concession stand too many times to count. We sang and laughed, and even danced a little. We also did our best doing the hokey pokey and we stayed on our feet the entire time. At least at this age, nothing I do is embarrassing, even when I tried skating on one leg, while doing a silly dance... At first, I thought I'd regret pulling out my old roller blades from the early 1990s, but, after an afternoon with my little girl, I'm so grateful to have found them.

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

A girl and her skates


As soon as my daughter's eyes open to the light of day, she places her two tiny feet into these skates. She's sometimes half awake and still wearing her nightgown, from only sleeping a few minutes ago. Her hair is usually wild and unruly or knotted in a loose ponytail. She rolls across the floor on repeat, while her wheels rumble a different sound when she glides from carpet to hardwoods.

When we enter our home from kindergarten, she quickly removes her school shoes and places them nicely by the backdoor, then dons her favorite skates. She picks up right where she left off from the morning ride.

She sings songs as she circles the inside of our home, tells stories, and even drags her fingers across the breakfast nook wall to tap her sight words that are taped in order.

This roller skating time has become our special time. I listen as she tells me all about her kindergarten stories and her experiences with friends, while she passes me making dinner in the kitchen. She stops to hang onto the refrigerator door to tell me an exciting part, then quickly skates off into the other rooms before circling back to tell me more.

A girl and her skates. Not only practicing to become better, but creating memories that will last a lifetime.


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Sunday, November 15, 2015

A reading moment in time


I could remember my daughter sitting on the floor with her little legs crossed and her short blonde hair wisped in front of her eyes. She would thumb through all her books, page by page, pretending to read every one until the pile towered above her little body. She spoke with excitement and a detailed imagination. She even acted out certain parts and made sure to emphasize each exclamation point. I could remember standing in her doorway, as she was too captivated by her books to even notice me there, and all I wanted was for this single moment of time to carry out a thousand times more. To stay forever frozen, when she was so very little and memorized by the smallest of details of each book. A time when she was content with sitting among a sea of books for hours on end. 

Today, she's no longer that little girl sitting by herself and pretending to read. She's now a big girl, with much longer and darker hair. She talks at an alarming rate and is questioning every part of life's existence. She walks around with her trusty notebook and a sharpened pencil, trying her hardest to write what she sees. Now when she's sitting among a sea of books, I listen while she patiently sounds out every word, letter by letter, until she is able to put the sounds together to read the sentence. I pause whatever I'm doing, to participate with her incredible amount of excitement she displays, after reading just one sentence. 

And even on some days, I'll watch her sitting with her little brother tightly against her shoulder and him admiringly hanging onto her every word. He watches as her finger points under each word and follows along to her story. He cheers for her when she reads the sentences correctly, but he would still cheer for her, even if she didn't.

That's the hardest part with growing up, sometimes I still long for that little girl and all those special moments she possessed. But on the other hand, I love watching my daughter share her passions with her brother and all the new moments that are unfolding in front of my eyes. And I'm sure in another few years, I'll be looking back at this time and longing for this moment right now. Thinking back to the days when my daughter was first learning to read and my son eagerly supported her process. Then I'll be begging for a glimpse to when they were both this little, because one thing motherhood has taught me is, every moment is only temporary.

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Veterans Day


Happy Veterans Day to all the men and women who have put their lives on the line to serve and protect us. I couldn't even begin to imagine the feeling of leaving your family behind, to be on foreign soil and doing things that wouldn't be the standard back home.

My poppy was a child of the 20s and a teen of the 30s. He never graduated high school because he worked in the coal mines to help bring money home for his family. He quickly enrolled in the military, as the majority did during that era. They say the men of WWII were from a different mold and I'm sure they were. As my poppy lived in a fox hole, walked the front lines, and stormed Omaha beach in Normandy. As a child, I rarely heard him speak of the war. But when he did, he constantly spoke of the fear he had when he ran across that sand, his boots sinking into the earth as bullets whizzed by his head. He often questioned why he made it to safety, when so many others did not.

My dad was drafted at 18 years old into Vietnam. He was a child of the 50s and a teen of the 60s. He proudly went to war to serve, as so many of his fellow brothers had done before him. He smiled as he waved goodbye to his loved ones, setting off to an adventure of the unknown. The stories I've heard from my dad, would make the biggest, baddest, man cry.

The one thing both my poppy and my dad had were scars, not the visual scars you can see on their bodies, however, I'm sure they have them too. But, scars on their souls. Those smiling boys left the states as naive, trusting people, only to return as someone else.

Sadly, that's the problem with War... You never come back the same. Every man and woman who ever interacted in some form of combat will always be changed forever.

With that, I'll always appreciate every soldier (past and present) and their eternal sacrifice to keep us safe.

Happy Veterans Day! This day is for you!

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

When I walked these streets


I must have walked this street a dozen times with my son. Trailing behind him as he rode up and down the slanted incline. I could remember doing the same thing for my daughter. Spending hours on this street, just the two of us, walking up and down as she was enthralled by the simplest things. Talking about all of life's marvelous possessions and throwing in a few laughter moments. Even venturing outdoors on clear winter days when I was 8 months pregnant because, both of us were begging for fresh air. Today, my son squealed his way down the street, stopping to exam fallen pine cones, the same way his sister once did. We parked the quad off the road to wander through some nearby woods, gathering sticks and acorns to paint, again, just as his sister and I did. Anymore, my daughter isn't interested in driving a power wheel toy up and down a street. So, instead she walks by my side, with her hand in mine, as we both follow behind him. She helps me hold the loose pine cones and sticks that he saves and even occasionally chases him, just to get him to laugh. In that moment I realize, time doesn't seem to pass unless you have something to compare it to. Seeing my daughter walk by my side instead of riding her once beloved quad and now that image is being replaced by my son, is hard to process. Sometimes, I still feel like I'm walking those same streets with my 2 year old daughter and lugging my big ole pregnant belly around.

Saturday, November 7, 2015

Tag, you're it!


The words, "I bet you can't catch me!" echoed through the warm fall air, as both my son and daughter played tag while running back to the house. Their little feet scampered through the dried crunchy leaves, moving as quickly as they could. They ran with smiles on their faces and the wind blowing through their hair. When they reached the end of the grass, my daughter stopped short and reached her hand backwards towards her brother, waiting for their hands to intertwine. Then once clasped, they crossed the finish line together.

Thursday, November 5, 2015

Treasures in the woods


Hand in hand, all our fingers tightly intertwined while our shoes crunched the earth below, we walked further into the depths of our surrounding woods. Taking adventures and searching for lost treasures. My daughter balanced her body as she tip toed across a fallen log. My son searched through down debris to find acorns and perfectly shaped pine cones. We carried our bodies through the crisp air and talked about the wondrous beauty that filled our eyes. We caught a glimpse of a buck eating some red berries off the tallest bush and squirrels rapidly scrounging nuts for their late evening dinner. We watched our feet disappear beneath the dried leaves, before we stumbled upon a hidden wishing well in the middle of the woods. This dilapidated well must have been the main water source for an old country house, once upon a time. We were probably standing over a structured foundation that once contained many memories from friends and families. We sat on a nearby log and imagined what the house may have looked liked and what the people may have done daily. We discussed for a while, sharing our opinions from what our imaginations created, before the cold got the better of us, and we sauntered our way back out of the woods... Waiting to see where another adventure will carry us...

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Halloween only comes but once a year

The sun was just beginning to dip below the earth, the warm air quickly turned cool, and the sounds of children laughing and running through the fallen leaves that lay under their feet echoed throughout the town. The dimly lit porch lights each slowly turned on, inviting everyone to their home. The sky was almost dark as night and the street lights shimmered a bright glow, lighting the way for all the fellow trick or treaters. Children anxiously waited, dressed head to toe in their favorite costumes. Some pretended to hide around trees, eagerly waiting to scare their friends. Others paced back and forth next to their parents, waiting for the "ok" to get started.

My daughter twirled her plastic pumpkin around in her hand, dressed in her favorite Snow White costume, with many under layers donned, to prevent her from being cold. My son spun around in circles, wearing his favorite Robin costume, occasionally pretending to fly off to help Batman -as they both anticipate how much fun the evening will bring.

The majority of the homes were finally lit, as they sprung out of the car, my daughter running ahead, then stopping to yell back to her brother, "hurry up." His little legs trying their best to keep up. They ran quickly up to the first house, rung the doorbell, then said, "trick or treat!" in unison... They received their candy, said thank you, then ran back to us all in the blink of an eye.

Both bouncing around in front of us as they talked over each other saying, "let's get going to the next house!"

Nana, Poppy (my parent's), my husband's sister and her two older children, joined us this year for the Halloween festivities. We set out to trick or treat for 6:00 pm, then ended the evening after 8:00 pm. With tired feet and wired bodies, we trudged along, trying our hardest to keep up with the excited children. 

The evening went as all Halloween evenings go, knocking on more than the average amount of doors, obtaining more than your average amount of candy, and staying up waaay past your bedtime. 

The grown ups walked together, staying at the edge of each driveway. My parent's trailed in the car, following us house to house. I walked to the door with all four of the children, happily standing in the cold, and helping my son navigate the uneven sidewalks -with the help of the older cousins. My daughter didn't need any assistance, as she is an old pro at trick or treating. The older children and I laughed about silly things, all the cousins were racing each other through the yards, and my daughter tried her hardest to scare her cousins. This was the first Halloween where my children were able to enjoy trick or treating with other people, besides us. Their cousins were incredibly great with them, patiently walking right by their sides and not once complaining with the amount of walking my daughter expected them to do.

With our bags heavy and the streets growing dark, we packed up for the evening. The crowds of children were dwindling down, with occasionally crossing paths with another costume child. The air grew colder and my children grew tired. The night was becoming later. We said our goodbyes, before walking up to that last house, knowing Halloween was over for the year. The car ride home was quiet, as my children's eyes grew heavy, only opening to acknowledge the amount of fun Halloween was this year.

Once home, they were carried into bed, their eyes now tightly closed shut, not even opening to see the amount of candy they received. That would have to wait until tomorrow. Because tomorrow, all the candy that is spilling over the top of their plastic pumpkins will be consumed with a tall glass of chocolate milk for breakfast. 

Because Halloween only comes but once a year.



Sunday, November 1, 2015

An impromptu weekend away

My Thursday evening was a typical scenario. I made dinner, we ate, then I was rushing around trying to clean, bathe the children, then get them ready for bed (it's amazing how sometimes the day could move so slowly, then all of the sudden, it becomes a race against the clock for bedtime). My phone rang, which sparked my son to seek me out and say, "mommy! The phone is ringing... It's ringing... Can you hear it mommy?" As if he was the only one granted with this ability. I raced to the phone with my hands full of crayons and markers and I eventually answered it on the last ring (I currently live in the 80s where I have a wall landline because my son wanted to test the waterproof system of our portable phone - he learned, they're not waterproof).

My parent's had called to ask us to join them on an impromptu family weekend away at a cabin, in a family-owned amusement park.

We quickly obliged.

Obviously, bedtime was one of the hardest accomplished goals that had been achieved in a long time. My daughter felt like a rebel as she was missing her first school day and my son was beyond eager to ride his favorite, beloved pedal cars.

Morning came quicker than I expected. We had our packed bags, our weekend essentials, and my two bouncing around children ready and waiting at the door. My parent's car pulling into the driveway sparked the same reaction that Santa did last year, when he walked through our door. 

The drive wasn't long, as we eagerly planned out our park adventures. Each child shouting what they wanted to ride first and what they couldn't wait to do. We never rented a cabin in the park before, so we weren't even quite sure what to expect. We do know however, that we're outdoorsy people and a cabin in the woods for the weekend was something we all were very excited for. 

Finding the registration building was simple, however, finding our cabin was like finding a needle in a haystack. There were cabins and tents and motor homes galore. Their Halloween festivities attracts a lot of visitors to the park yearly, we just weren't prepared for how many. After several wrong turns, and an incident of attempting to unlock a cabin that wasn't ours, we finally found our cabin.



What a lovely cabin it was...

My children ran freely through the grass, explored new areas, and pretended with their toys, as my parents, my husband, and I unloaded our belongings. They claimed their beds, climbed up and down the ladders to the two bunk beds and were completely fascinated by all the small, cubby areas, this cabin offered. There was even a little loft that was nestled high above the tallest bunk. We all quickly realized, this weekend was going to be magical.

Our day time hours were spent at our cabin, exploring the grounds, building fires, and making friends with nearby campers. We conversed around our table while eating lunch and told stories about past memories. We laughed around the picnic table and climbed on rocks. We even took an early walk into the unopened park, where we explored, pretended, and imagined around the motionless rides. We saw the spooky Halloween decorations and said hello to the random workers. My children felt like they owned the place, as we were the only non employees there. We took advantage of every available free moment. Our evenings were at the park, riding rides until we were sick and eating typical park food. My children couldn't get enough, and truth is, I think we all were the same.

The warm sunny days were quickly replaced with cool, crisp, evening fall temperatures. Everyone was bundled up tight with hats and gloves and thankfully, we were able to ride everything at least once. Some rides we even rode 6-7 times. Two rides in particular that were the focal point for my daughter and her poppy were the scrambler and the adult himalaya. We made our money with those two rides and I don't think I have ever seen my daughter as happy as she was upon exited those two rides. The rest of us sat on nearby benches as we watched my daughter and her poppy fly around the ride, singing, laughing, and squealing with immense joy. Even if those were the only two rides my daughter rode the whole day, as long as it was with her poppy, she would have been completely content. 

My son also rode more rides than ever before. My daughter graduated from riding the kiddie rides to riding the adult ones, but will entertain her brother by joining him on the smaller ones. Once on the rides, she lifted her arms up in the air and shrieked as she approached every turn, trying to add more excitement. But, when my son attempted to do the same, then would quickly drop his hands to hold on. My daughter eventually saw him doing that, then lifted his arms high in the air and held tightly onto him, so he could be fearless and go hands free around the turns, just like his sister.

He was proud.

After the third day, we were adventured out, having done above and beyond what we set out to do. We had more enjoyment from those few days than ever before at that park. The first evening walk back to the campground ended with my husband carrying my sleeping daughter and myself carrying my sleeping son. The second night, both children were still very much awake, but requiring nana and poppy's hands to be intertwined in theirs. 

On both nights, while both kids softly snored away in their bunks, the adults sat around our very small table, in our very small cabin, and drank tea and indulged in cupcakes. Even with the smallest of conversations, the time spent together was irreplaceable. 

Today, we eagerly wait until we can book an entire full week during the summer to enjoy another family trip, but until then, I have the wonderful memories that were created from a simple, impromptu long weekend. The beautiful colors of the rides against the fall scenery, the smell of funnel cakes and hot apple cider, and sight of ear to ear smiles on both of my children's faces the entire weekend. The moments they spent on the rides with us, clinging so tightly when they were scared of a sharp turn, and even the occasional meltdowns they had. Seeing the immense joy my daughter experienced the first time she rode a new ride and my son's joy getting to ride his favorite cars, trucks, and planes.

Trips with children can be exhausting, but seeing all the wondrous magic a single weekend away with family creates is worth its weight in gold. I'll take the sporadic meltdowns, the out of nowhere naps, and the constant "go" just to have the opportunity to experience everything with them. I adore every second my children want me to ride the rides with them and have me sit in the exact seat as them, with my arm outstretched around their little bodies. These are the moments that don't need clarity. These are the moments where I feel completely at home. I feel perfect in my skin. The moments where my family is all together and enjoying life, as simple as it is.   








***Remember, if you enjoy reading my stories, please vote for my blog! To do so, go to my blog's main page (www.jackyhappydays.blogspot.com) and click the Top Mommy Blog icon in the right side column. Once clicked, it will redirect you to their main page, that is all you need to do. Each vote raises my ranks and helps promote The Happy Days -Thank you!

Thursday, October 29, 2015

Future self


While packing away some of my children's too little clothing, my
daughter came across her old, very worn, Hello Kitty light up shoes. She immediately grabbed them out of the pile and began chattering away about all the wondrous qualities they possess. She reminisced about how "awesome" these shoes once were and all the "amazing" things she achieved while wearing them... She finalized her memory moment by saying, "we need to keep these shoes for my future children. I'm sure they'll love Hello Kitty just as much as I did." Being the nostalgic self that I am (who kept all of her early 80s toys), I gently took them out of her hands and placed them into our tote of all the specific items we are packing away for my children's future self -- because you never know if my daughter's future child will in fact like Hello Kitty too
.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

A walk in the park


I love the way you both squeal as you swing higher and higher towards the ocean blue sky. I love when you sing all your favorite songs in unison, while the wind blows through your long flowing hair. I love watching the incredible amount of joy you both display for the simplest things... How you both race across the grass towards the slides, then say, "on your mark, get set, go!" as you compete down them. I love the free spirit you indulge, when you both spin in circles for what seems like eternity. Then stopping to rest your backs on the soft green grass, gazing up towards the object filled clouds... Also, the amount of love you both have for each other and the vast amount of imagination you both posses. I love the way you both support each other and coach each other through tough obstacles... Most of all, I love our beautiful fall days and our memories being made. Thank you both for making my life unimaginable.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Mid Week Revelation: Too much talking?

I've discovered that sometimes there really is a such thing as too much talking in one day. Especially when it's from your children... And it's on repeat... All day. And it's about wanting a different drink versus the one provided... Or a different snack... Or asking where is a certain pencil.. Or where is the mail truck matchbox car... Or where is the blue colored block... Or why is it only lunch time... Or why do horses live on the farm and run wild... And sometimes, I just want to go back to bed.

Sunday, October 18, 2015

Hiking adventures in the fall

We pulled our car off to the edge of the road, with two of the wheels resting on concrete and the others on gravel. As soon as we stepped out of our vehicle, we were overwhelmed by the breathtaking views and peaceful quietness, with only the occasional chirp from a hovering bird. The cool fall breeze rolled across our bodies and the crisp autumn air entered into our lungs.



Oh fall, how you captivate our souls with your serene views, calming breezes, and bountiful cleanses. It's humbling to look up and see a vast array of colors among the crystal blue sky. The photogenic scenes that play out in the forefront, like an art gallery on opening night. I could listen forever to the sound of leaves crunching beneath our winter boots as my children and I walk along the trail in search of our favorite spot, to throw rocks into the water.



We hike together, as our hands graze the lower hung branches that drape over parts of the trail, hopping and skipping over raised established root systems. My children pretend monkeys are in the above trees and they crouch down in the underbrush, hiding from tossed bananas. They sit on the dirt bank, watching the water ripple from the wind and they help each other find the perfect rock to make the biggest splash; and they try really hard to beat mommy's record of making a rock skip five times across the water.

We sit and talk about all the wondrous beauty that is in eyesight. My son names the colors he sees and tells me his favorite view. My daughter discusses why the leaves are changing and that the yellow leaved trees should be called banana trees, "because they're yellow."    



We packed ourselves up and followed the trail back to our car, watching the sun peek through the thick trees as it lowered itself down beyond the earth. My daughter grabbed a hiking stick off the ground and made sure to find another perfect one for her brother. Then, hand in hand, they made their way through the narrowing trail and out onto the pavement, where our outdoor adventures ended for the day. 

Saying goodbye for the night... But hello to another soon adventure.



***Remember, if you like reading my stories, please vote for my blog to increase my ranking over on Top Mommy Blog's website. To vote, go to my main page (www.jackyhappydays.blogspot.com) and click the Top Mommy Approved icon in the right side column. Once clicked, it'll redirect you to their website. That is all you need to do. Thank you all for your continued support!

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Mid Week Revelation: Why not just let the quiet child be?

I've realized, if one child is off playing nicely by themselves, it's only a matter of time before the other child begins a search and rescue throughout the house, with the goal of finding the quiet child, just to annoy them. Motherhood, the land of predictability. 

Sunday, October 11, 2015

Fall-Tastic Day

The smell of popcorn filled the air as we stepped out of our car, crunching the dried leaves beneath our feet. Apple cider was stacked in unison in tall glass bottles, eagerly waiting to be purchased. Mounds of hay was tied neatly together in the distance and corn fields sprawled throughout the acres. While the cool crisp air blew through the vibrant colored trees, knocking several leaves off as they swayed back and forth.



My children quickly exited the car, as they were very excited to spend the day at the pumpkin patch (cue the Charlie Brown music). Walking in a single file through the grass parking lot, we made our way towards the cash register where we purchased our necessities to enjoy the most out of our day. 





Our first stop was the corn maze, where we twisted and turned around every corner trying to find our way out. My daughter tried her hardest to use her "leader" skills and guide us through the pathways, as she pretended to pull out a map to show us the correct way. But my son, who wasn't taking the leading seriously, was cutting through the corn stalks and making his own paths. Which would cause the response of, "mom! he isn't following my path" from my daughter. Then I explained, everyone is entitled to find their own way. After many wrong turns and over an hour on all three corn mazes, we finally made our way out -well, the last and hardest maze resulted in my husband bailing out through the corn stalk wall earlier than us. We eventually followed his lead about 5 minutes later, after we took more wrong turns than correct ones and my son and daughter thought playing among the stalks was more fun than walking around them.

We walked back down the dirt pathway to the child's area to allow them to play in the shade and for a break in between the day. They had many activities for them to utilize, which were all fall season friendly. Both of my children climbed to the top of the hand built wooden tower, then jumped off into a pile of fluffy hay and played in bailed hay mazes. The first jump off the ledge resulted in my son holding tightly onto my daughter's hand and asking for her to not let go, as they plunged into a comfy landing place. There were also tables filled with corn and sand that had many toy construction vehicles resting on the top. Of course, prying my son away from the toy vehicles was the hardest part, as the tractor pulled up beside the table, waiting for people to file into the hay ride.



We sat in the front corner of the flat bed, waiting for the ride to begin. We took our family photos and chatted about how much fun the day has been and what kind of pumpkin both of my children would pick. My daughter and son both kneeled on the edge of the bailed hay seats resting their chins on the wood rails, as they watched the beautiful scenes around them.



The hay ride dropped us off into a pumpkin patch with many large and small pumpkins still attached to their vines. Both my children thanked the lady who drove the tractor as they squealed their way off the flat bed. My husband took my son in one direction, as I followed my daughter into another. While walking around, they had to find the perfect one, which resulted in many, "hmm, I can't decide which one is more perfect than the other" speeches. My son was able to pick out the pumpkin he liked the best within a few steps into patch, then pleaded with his daddy to take him back over to the toy construction vehicles, which of course daddy did. I was left to follow my daughter around for at least 15 minutes or so, before she found THE perfect one. 


And I think they were the two most perfect pumpkins I have ever seen (My son's on the left, with my daughter's on the right).

Today was another one of those beautiful family filled days, which I adore so very much. Those perfect days that will remain within my brain for many, many years. The days that keep me sane during those not so good days. The ones where I could close my eyes and see my children's gorgeous smiles as the bright sun rays glistened off their faces, leaving me with a heartwarming yearn for today. The memories that are forever etched in time. Their giggles and laughter echoing in the background as we couldn't find our way out of the mazes, my daughter singing her favorite songs while riding on the tractor, and my son working up enough courage to jump off the ledge into the hay, all by himself. As a mother, I live for these moments, these days. The days where I'm able to snuggle up with my children and explore new and exciting moments together. 

I know I said this past summer was the greatest memory thus far, but I think today is a great start to a whole new season and I cannot wait for our next outing.


**Don't forget, if you enjoyed this post or any of my other ones, please go to my main page (www.jackyhappydays.blogspot.com) and click the Top Mommy Blogs Approved icon in my right hand column. Once clicked, it will redirect you to their main page, that is all you need to do -the vote will be registered. With the more votes I get, my blog will raise in rankings, which will result in more traffic to my site. Thank you all again!

Sunday, October 4, 2015

2 year Blogiversary

Two years ago, I begun my journey in this mommy blogger world. At that time, I had a newly 3 year old and a 9 month old. My life wasn't easily adjusting to parenting two children as I had hoped.

In the beginning, I had difficulty dealing with extreme mom guilt. I never had a problem taking care of anyone, just finding the balance of how to eliminate the gut wrenching ill feeling when your two year old cries because mommy had to stop playing, in order to make a bottle for her infant brother or quietly rock him before his nap. First, I had this one child, who had my undivided attention, life was smooth and untouched. Then, I had two children who yearned for that same undivided attention.

Most days, I felt as though I was free falling, but never reaching ground. I felt more in survival mode, versus, living the day.

I am a very hands on parent and I take helicopter parenting to a whole different level. I play with my children, pay attention to my children, and teach my children. At that time, I needed to find a way to spend all my time with both of my children, not just one at a time. Because the thought of leaving one of my children out, was heartbreaking to me.

Within weeks, life became routine. My daughter realized this little baby boy wasn't leaving and she became more inclined to have him around. She then wanted to participate with helping the needs of her little brother. Then, I allowed her part of those moments, instead of having her occupy herself, while I took him in another room. Our days were just the three of us and we did everything, just the three of us.

That's when the idea of creating a story of all the best times of my day, instead of seeking the negative ones. If the day was focused on crying and no sleeping (from either child), I would find the solitary moment that made me smile. That one moment that would help me make it through that day. 

Once I started living in the moment instead of trying to figure out the future, life became easier. I didn't feel so overwhelmed.

Life is not all rainbows and roses, but it very easily can be something magical. 

There is always a silver lining.

I choose not to consume myself with all the stressful parts of being a full time mom, with little outside help. The lack of sleep, the tantrums, the whining, the fighting, the potty training difficulties, the homework, and whatever else can be thought of. I never want to lay in bed and replay the day over and cringe at the images. I never want to feel like I could have done better with my day. Instead, I want to breathe in all the wonderful, little moments that make this life so worth while. I want everyday to count, everyday to be magical. I want to enjoy my life as mom and not try to have it be something else. I want to look back upon these years and think how glorious they were. I want to yearn for this today, when my children thought I was the most amazing individual on the planet.

Because after all, these are our Happy Days. 


**Thank you all for your support over these past two years. I really enjoy journaling all my amazing, adorable moments with all you dedicated readers. If there is one thing you take away from my blog, I hope it's to enjoy the moment you're in. Find that moment that makes your heart skip a beat, and focus on that. Even if the days seem hard and overwhelming, know that your role as a parent/guardian is the most amazing and important moment in your life. Life is as simplistic as you make it. The stress you have, is the stress you create. So, try to limit the stress by focusing on your best days, your best moments, and your best experiences. Thank you...

**Also, as some of you already know, The Happy Days blog was selected to be featured on Top Mommy Blogs website (I'm in the family life category). You can vote daily to raise my blog's ranking on that page. How to vote? On the right hand column of my main page, you'll see a Top Mommy Blog Approved icon (under my new The Happy Days banner). Click that icon once and it will redirect you to their main page. That is all you need to do. By going to their page, it'll track the votes through my icon -You can only vote by clicking that icon. I would appreciate any votes I could get. More votes = higher ranking and higher ranking = more blog traffic.

Thank you for celebrating my 2 year blogiversary with me!