Today I was just thinking that we are truly blessed to have good neighbors. I know I can depend on them, and they know they can depend on me. Right now my #2 is playing baseball in my neighbor's backyard with a boy his own age and they are having a "ball"...pardon the pun. My daughter has tons of friends in the neighborhood who are in her class! That is really nice.
What makes a good neighbor? That is a good question. I believe a good neighbor is one who knows your name, is friendly, gives you enough space but also feels comfortable enough to approach you, and is not quick to judge. I have met some people who have been very judgemental. I remember one neighbor asking me if I was a member of the Junior League and then avoiding me once she found out I was not. I also recall a neighbor who judged me because of the church I attended. I think those people are missing out on a lot of wonderful experiences because of their narrow-minded thinking.
The most important thing, in my opinion, is to be a good neighbor yourself. I learned a lot after living in our first home about first impressions. There is no way to get that moment back. I also learned that sometimes people seem snobby but they are actually just shy or unsure about the situation. I have learned to step out of my comfort zone and reach out to those in my neighborhood. There are many needs in my street alone and I try to do the Christian thing and help when I can. Our church is good about taking care of our members, but other churches are not eager to help out. It is also important to educate others about my children. Having four children is an issue in itself because many don't want four additional children in their home at one time... which is understandable. I would never do that to anyone, but THEY don't know that. Also, I am not quick to let my children enter ANYONE'S home unless I know them. I guess I am just cautious that way.
Summer is around the corner and we need to reach out to our neighbors in friendship. Make it a point to get to know those with children. Don't hesitate to call them and invite the children over to your house. They don't have to come inside. They could just play outside and get some vitamin D. My point is that don't wait for people to come to you... go to them. I just received a call from my neighbor and they are having such a good time that she wants my #2 to stay over for pizza!!! We've lived here for over seven years and that is the first time he has been over there. Life can be so wonderful when you give it a chance.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Friday, March 19, 2010
Surviving Spring Break In Sickness And In Health
This Spring Break was definitely a challenging one for me. My husband had to work and so we didn't get a chance to go out of town. However, in hindsight I believe it was probably a blessing because I spent most of the time cleaning up vomit, diarrhea, and taking care of fevers. I can't imagine being on vacation with sick kids. That would be a total nightmare!
We basically had a "staycation" and made the best of it. My oldest, who is thirteen, was the one who was sick most of the time. In a way, that made it easier for me. I took the younger three to places like Pump It Up (an indoor inflatable playground for kids and adults), bowling, and was able to leave my oldest at home to rest. The weather was so nice and we definitely spent some time outside. Getting that Vitamin D sure does something for the soul.
The children actually enjoyed relaxing while watching television and/or playing on their Nintendo DS. They loved not having to go to school and did not complain too much. I guess I must have kept them busy enough that they didn't even notice that we didn't go out of town like most of their friends. Sometimes we parents forget that time is usually what they want. If we fill our time during a vacation with traveling and schedules then it's not TRULY a vacation.
Although it would have been nice to get away this week, I am not going to complain too much. I am going to count my blessings that MY health was fine, and that I was able to handle the sick kids. I am also thankful for being able to spend some quality time with my children. They are growing up before my eyes and one day I won't have my sweet babies at home anymore. My oldest is about to pass me in height and that is surreal.
We are planning on going camping as a family and trying out our new three bedroom tent! It's going to be so fun and the weather should be nice. We are so lucky to live in an area where the cold winters don't last very long. Our Springs are mild and wonderful. They are the perfect camping weather. There is an area that my husband found for us that is only about forty minutes from where we live that should be perfect. I can't wait for my oldest to show off his camping skills with all of his siblings. Plus, I just love smores and burnt marshmallows... YUM!!!
*************************
Our family vacation to be
continued.....
*************************
We basically had a "staycation" and made the best of it. My oldest, who is thirteen, was the one who was sick most of the time. In a way, that made it easier for me. I took the younger three to places like Pump It Up (an indoor inflatable playground for kids and adults), bowling, and was able to leave my oldest at home to rest. The weather was so nice and we definitely spent some time outside. Getting that Vitamin D sure does something for the soul.
The children actually enjoyed relaxing while watching television and/or playing on their Nintendo DS. They loved not having to go to school and did not complain too much. I guess I must have kept them busy enough that they didn't even notice that we didn't go out of town like most of their friends. Sometimes we parents forget that time is usually what they want. If we fill our time during a vacation with traveling and schedules then it's not TRULY a vacation.
Although it would have been nice to get away this week, I am not going to complain too much. I am going to count my blessings that MY health was fine, and that I was able to handle the sick kids. I am also thankful for being able to spend some quality time with my children. They are growing up before my eyes and one day I won't have my sweet babies at home anymore. My oldest is about to pass me in height and that is surreal.
We are planning on going camping as a family and trying out our new three bedroom tent! It's going to be so fun and the weather should be nice. We are so lucky to live in an area where the cold winters don't last very long. Our Springs are mild and wonderful. They are the perfect camping weather. There is an area that my husband found for us that is only about forty minutes from where we live that should be perfect. I can't wait for my oldest to show off his camping skills with all of his siblings. Plus, I just love smores and burnt marshmallows... YUM!!!
*************************
Our family vacation to be
continued.....
*************************
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Holly Robinson Peete Keeping It Real
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/holly-robinson-peete/shifting-focus-8-facts-ab_b_501183.html
Holly Robinson Peete wrote an awesome article in the Huffington Post about eight things that the media does not cover about autism. I suggest you read it. I am so proud of her for being able to shed light on a lot of issues that I have tried to in my blog! It actually feels good to know that someone out there (in the spotlight) has some of the same concerns I do.
*********************
This little light of
mine.... I'm going to
let it shine.
*********************
Holly Robinson Peete wrote an awesome article in the Huffington Post about eight things that the media does not cover about autism. I suggest you read it. I am so proud of her for being able to shed light on a lot of issues that I have tried to in my blog! It actually feels good to know that someone out there (in the spotlight) has some of the same concerns I do.
*********************
This little light of
mine.... I'm going to
let it shine.
*********************
Friday, March 12, 2010
Complicated Taste Buds
Many of you are probably wondering the same thing I am wondering right now. Why do my children all have such different tastes? My oldest is the pickiest of them all right now. My #2 is probably my most exotic one. My daughter is a GREAT eater. My baby is VERY picky! However, the things they like don't make sense. For example, my child who doesn't like ANYTHING (let's call him "Mikey") will eat pistachios, pumpkin seeds, spinach or artichoke dips, yogurt, peanut butter (even crunchy), and many other curious things. My #2 (the one in the autism spectrum) will pour Bay Seasoning into a bowl and eat it. I have caught him eating my Bouillon cubes like candy! I don't exactly understand it. However, I did a little research and found some interesting things. I thought I would share them with you.
Found this article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/19702.php
and found it very interesting. It explains the genetic component that comes into play in determining how children's taste buds might be affected. I already knew the social factors. For example, I grew up eating food from Puerto Rico and therefore I have TOTAL different tastes when it comes to food compared to my friends and husband. The genetic component is fascinating to me!
I was speaking to some parents of children with ASD's and they shared some very interesting stories with me. Many of them had children who were very picky eaters. Most of them ate unusual things and had limited menus. For example, one only eats: chicken nuggets (from McDonald's), cheese pizza, and peanut butter. There was another who only eats: broccoli, cheese pizza with NO sauce, cheese quesadillas, and ramen noodles. I asked them how they did it on a daily basis? How did they go out and eat? All of them said, "We rarely go out to eat" or "We just have to cook different things for him." It made me appreciate MY picky eaters. At least I know that they will eat a little more than that. I introduce new foods and for the most part they will attempt to eat it. The foods I KNOW they don't like, I will fix for myself and husband on days I don't have to cook for them. I rarely fix a different meal for my kids. That would be too much work!
In retrospect I realize that MY own taste buds have changed over time. Perhaps my children's will too. I have to hope that when they grow up and mature perhaps they will feel the curiosity to try new things. I hope that they can appreciate their mom's cooking someday.... Just like I appreciate mine.
********************************
Just keep trying. Don't give in.
It might just surprise you the
one day they actually try it and
say, "Mom! This is good!!"
********************************
Found this article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/19702.php
and found it very interesting. It explains the genetic component that comes into play in determining how children's taste buds might be affected. I already knew the social factors. For example, I grew up eating food from Puerto Rico and therefore I have TOTAL different tastes when it comes to food compared to my friends and husband. The genetic component is fascinating to me!
I was speaking to some parents of children with ASD's and they shared some very interesting stories with me. Many of them had children who were very picky eaters. Most of them ate unusual things and had limited menus. For example, one only eats: chicken nuggets (from McDonald's), cheese pizza, and peanut butter. There was another who only eats: broccoli, cheese pizza with NO sauce, cheese quesadillas, and ramen noodles. I asked them how they did it on a daily basis? How did they go out and eat? All of them said, "We rarely go out to eat" or "We just have to cook different things for him." It made me appreciate MY picky eaters. At least I know that they will eat a little more than that. I introduce new foods and for the most part they will attempt to eat it. The foods I KNOW they don't like, I will fix for myself and husband on days I don't have to cook for them. I rarely fix a different meal for my kids. That would be too much work!
In retrospect I realize that MY own taste buds have changed over time. Perhaps my children's will too. I have to hope that when they grow up and mature perhaps they will feel the curiosity to try new things. I hope that they can appreciate their mom's cooking someday.... Just like I appreciate mine.
********************************
Just keep trying. Don't give in.
It might just surprise you the
one day they actually try it and
say, "Mom! This is good!!"
********************************
Monday, March 8, 2010
Tribute to an Angel
I can't mention her by name.... nor can I even say how I know her. However, I wanted to pay tribute to this "angel" of mine who has taught me more about my #2 than anyone else in the world!
The truth is that she doesn't even realize how much of an impact she has on me and my family. When others criticize about something my #2 has done, she explains the context in which it happened. When others see a child who is being unruly or a bit noisy, she sees someone who has a lot of "spirit". When I get frustrated at his impatience, she sees a child with enthusiasm and an eagerness to be involved. When my child has a "spiritual moment" she is the first one to share it with me. I feel truly blessed to know her and to have her in my life.
The best thing is that she is going to be working with children with special needs. She feels it's her calling in life. I think she's right. She's not even done with school, but she has already had a HUGE impact on many children's lives. I am so excited to know that she will be joining the ranks of those wonderful teachers who get to work with some remarkable children. This angel of mine appreciates their sweet spirits and their brilliant minds. She loves them and expects a lot out of them in return. It's amazing what a child can achieve when you expect it. It's truly amazing!!
*************************
We make a living by what
we get, but we make a life
by what we give.
--Winston Churchill
*************************
The truth is that she doesn't even realize how much of an impact she has on me and my family. When others criticize about something my #2 has done, she explains the context in which it happened. When others see a child who is being unruly or a bit noisy, she sees someone who has a lot of "spirit". When I get frustrated at his impatience, she sees a child with enthusiasm and an eagerness to be involved. When my child has a "spiritual moment" she is the first one to share it with me. I feel truly blessed to know her and to have her in my life.
The best thing is that she is going to be working with children with special needs. She feels it's her calling in life. I think she's right. She's not even done with school, but she has already had a HUGE impact on many children's lives. I am so excited to know that she will be joining the ranks of those wonderful teachers who get to work with some remarkable children. This angel of mine appreciates their sweet spirits and their brilliant minds. She loves them and expects a lot out of them in return. It's amazing what a child can achieve when you expect it. It's truly amazing!!
*************************
We make a living by what
we get, but we make a life
by what we give.
--Winston Churchill
*************************
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Bullying in Schools Need to Stop!
Recent events have inspired me to write this post. Luckily, and I do mean LUCKILY, this time it wasn't my children involved. It was a dear friend's son who is in Middle School. He is in the autism spectrum and is such a sweet and caring boy. He is big enough to be a linebacker in football, but he wouldn't hurt a fly. He's a big teddy bear. He is dealing with bullying on a daily basis and it's breaking his mother's heart because she feels like she is not getting the support of the school.
We live in a time where some parents don't want to take the time to teach their kids common courtesy and acceptance. In some cases, the parents are worse than the kids. I am so tired of hearing the same old thing, "boys will be boys" or "that's part of Middle School." It doesn't have to be. I think that if parents would just teach their children tolerance and educate them on cultural diversity, then we wouldn't have half the problems we face today. The children are eventually going to grow up to become adults. What kind of adults are we raising?
The dilemma is the following: when is a parent supposed to sit back and let the child deal with his/her own problems and when is a parent supposed to step in and do something? I was faced with a similar situation when MY son attended his first year in Middle School. I was torn because I wanted my son to learn how to stand up for himself. However, I was seeing his self-esteem go downhill very quickly. I eventually visited the school and talked to the Vice Principal. Unfortunately, it didn't change things very much, but I showed my son that I was on his side and that he no longer had to "ignore them" and put up with such abuse. My son and I eventually came up with a game plan and he finished out the year.
My friend has been advised by a professional to "ignore things" and that it was just a normal middle school adjustment thing. She was told that the children were advised to ignore her child. Well... the problem is that they are definitely ignoring him (among other things), which is a form of psychological bullying. Her child came home today and went straight to his room and cried. I can't even imagine what he must be going through. It just breaks my heart. They tease him about his size, his hair, his intelligence, and use tone of voice to degrade him in class. I am concerned that he will reach his limit and "fight" back. Of course, these kids are street smart and so HE will likely get in trouble before anyone else does.
I can't wait for the day when children can go to school and not have to worry about being who they are. I understand that children are not mature and there are some things they will do. However, I also understand that MY children don't bully other kids in school and never have. It's because I have TAUGHT them basic principles such as "Love One Another" and "The Golden Rule", among other things. I have experienced people being critical of the way I raise my children with high standards and morals. They think it's ridiculous that my thirteen year-old boy can't watch certain shows on t.v. or that we won't allow him to go to any school dance until he is fourteen. It's important to stand your ground when it comes to things like that. Otherwise, when bigger and more important "battles" come along then you have the strength and backing to fight them.
********************************
Life lesson #205: sometimes you just need to listen to your gut and dismiss unsolicited advice when it comes to your children..... even the "professionals" don't always have the answers.
********************************
We live in a time where some parents don't want to take the time to teach their kids common courtesy and acceptance. In some cases, the parents are worse than the kids. I am so tired of hearing the same old thing, "boys will be boys" or "that's part of Middle School." It doesn't have to be. I think that if parents would just teach their children tolerance and educate them on cultural diversity, then we wouldn't have half the problems we face today. The children are eventually going to grow up to become adults. What kind of adults are we raising?
The dilemma is the following: when is a parent supposed to sit back and let the child deal with his/her own problems and when is a parent supposed to step in and do something? I was faced with a similar situation when MY son attended his first year in Middle School. I was torn because I wanted my son to learn how to stand up for himself. However, I was seeing his self-esteem go downhill very quickly. I eventually visited the school and talked to the Vice Principal. Unfortunately, it didn't change things very much, but I showed my son that I was on his side and that he no longer had to "ignore them" and put up with such abuse. My son and I eventually came up with a game plan and he finished out the year.
My friend has been advised by a professional to "ignore things" and that it was just a normal middle school adjustment thing. She was told that the children were advised to ignore her child. Well... the problem is that they are definitely ignoring him (among other things), which is a form of psychological bullying. Her child came home today and went straight to his room and cried. I can't even imagine what he must be going through. It just breaks my heart. They tease him about his size, his hair, his intelligence, and use tone of voice to degrade him in class. I am concerned that he will reach his limit and "fight" back. Of course, these kids are street smart and so HE will likely get in trouble before anyone else does.
I can't wait for the day when children can go to school and not have to worry about being who they are. I understand that children are not mature and there are some things they will do. However, I also understand that MY children don't bully other kids in school and never have. It's because I have TAUGHT them basic principles such as "Love One Another" and "The Golden Rule", among other things. I have experienced people being critical of the way I raise my children with high standards and morals. They think it's ridiculous that my thirteen year-old boy can't watch certain shows on t.v. or that we won't allow him to go to any school dance until he is fourteen. It's important to stand your ground when it comes to things like that. Otherwise, when bigger and more important "battles" come along then you have the strength and backing to fight them.
********************************
Life lesson #205: sometimes you just need to listen to your gut and dismiss unsolicited advice when it comes to your children..... even the "professionals" don't always have the answers.
********************************
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