How chores helped my children

Before chores everytime we went to ANY store the kids always requested something. They didn't care if it was a rinky dinky toy that would fall a part in a few days. It could be a toy they didn't really want. It could be candy, a soft drink, a happy meal but it would always be something. If we rode past a yardsale and they could clearly see toys in the yard they would want to stop and have a peek. On the bright side at least I'm raising some crunchy kids who will enjoy used toys but that's besides the fact. They didn't under stand the value of a dollar or working for your money.

One night while at work I thought about making a chore chart. I made one up and copied weekly sheets. I didn't expect a whole lot from them but I knew I could come up with some small chores. I decided on brushing teeth (Broox likes to have me brush them for him), folding towels and rags, putting clothes in the hamper, helping dad gather laundry for laundry day, setting the table, putting dishes in the sink and picking up toys. Unfortunately some days we don't have laundry, we don't have to gather laundry up and when Berrac isn't home we don't always eat at the table but I don't hold that agaisnt them. Instead of an X on the chart I draw a line to let me know they didn't have that option for the day. 

Now once we started this they done an awesome job. They still do good but now I have to remind them and when they slack it's more than likely my fault. They get paid twice a month $5 every 2 weeks. I know it's not much, but to them they are so excited to know they have their own money. They do have the option to make more if they do stuff outside of what's on the chore chart.

It has really surprised me how well they have done and how their actions have changed A LOT. My once 'begging for toys' children no longer ask for something everytime they are out. If they don't have money they don't ask. If they ask anything at all it is them wanting to know when they get paid again. Some how it has even managed to get them getting along better and being more respectful to me and their father. I'm not sure how chores could make that big of an impact but since I've started the chart those are a few of the main things I have noticed.

Last month both the kids bought their own video games after saving their chore money in a container for 2 months. Broox was 10 dollars short so he agreed to forfeit receiving money this month while still doing his chores. For a 5 and 7 year old, ESPECIALLY a 5 year old to have money and save it, it's a really big deal. I was so proud of them. 

Unfortunately I've been slacking a tad on reminding them about chores but I told them no more slacking if they want to get paid they have to do the work. I truely believe they are now gaining a better understanding of the value of money and working for what you have. They make me so proud!

Looking back on 2014

It's always nice when a New Year begins. Of course everyone acts like New Year new beginnings but every second, minute, hour, day, week, month we have a chance for a new beginning or to change our mindset. The way I look at it, is to be thankful for how far you've came, make changes when you feel they need to be made don't wait until there is a new year. 

 

This past year has been absolutely wonderful and beautiful. After many mistakes and not truely knowing myself I feel that I am finally in touch with myself, know myself and am constantly happy. I couldn't and wouldn't ask for a better family. I know exactly who my true friends are and when it comes down to it Berrac is my best friend. It feels awesome knowing I can talk to him about any and everything and that I have found my 'anyways friend'. 

 

I am currently binge watching Private Practice and one episode one of the main characters daughters gets married and he was talking about how his daughter called him her anyways friend and now her anyway friend is also her husband. An anyway friend is someone who loves you no matter what you've done, said or what has happened and that they love you anyways. I truely feel that Berrac is my anyway friend and I am so happy that he is my other half and the father of my kids despite what we've been through over the years, I couldn't ask for anyone better.

 

2014 was nothing but ups for me the entire year. I don't remember a moment of downs or unhappiness.In January we announced that we were pregnant with our sweet Berran. This was exciting for me because after irregular periods, being diagnosed with PCOS and told if would be hard for me to conceive, I was unexpectantly surprised with a positive test. 

 

Broox began playing soccer, Braxton played flag football. Broox graduated preschool and Braxton Kindgarten which also meant he'd be attending a bigger school. Berran was born June 17th at only 35 weeks. We weren't expecting him until July 20th but God had other plans. I was scared, the doctors and nurses prepare you for the worst which would have been a stay in the nicu but by the grace of god we had a happy and healthy 6lb 8oz 18in long baby boy who had no complications and no nicu stay.

 

Around the same time football began and they were on the Rams 6u. Broox was the youngest child starting at age 4. I watched him start out as an uninterest child rolling around in the grass not putting forth effort to a lovely 5 year old that wasn't the best but was enjoying time playing, giving his best effort and having fun with his friends, which in the end he was awarded with the 'Iron Man' award.

 

Braxton was a very determined first year player and I waited the whole football season to see him lose his fear of hitting and FINALLY after the Rams season was over and he was selected for the East Allstars (1) game they played and he was finally tackling. Proud mom moment for sure!

 

Then of course we had our first Halloween, thanksgiving and Christmas as a family of 5. 

I really couldn't have asked for a better year. I hope to have another awesome year, so long 2014 and hello 2015.

 

A week of giving thanks: DAY 7 THANKSGIVING

 

 

First off I would like to say I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. My family had a very busy but wonderful day. I cannot even begin to express how thankful I am for my family. I am very lucky to have Berrac in my life. He provides for our family in every way possible and he is always going over the top to make our boys and I happy. He works overtime quite often which is what allows me to stay home as often as I do. I do not know what I would do with out him. He is an awesome spouse and father. I wouldn't ask for anyone else in my life.

 

I am also very thankful for my boys. Braxton and I may butt heads (he's just like me) but at the age of 16 he was my life changer and I am so thankful God brought me him at even such a young age. I have enjoyed watching him grow the past 7 years and he is always making me proud.

 Broox is my trouble maker but I am so thankful that he is still a mamas boy. At the age of 5 he still enjoys cuddling with me or letting me rock him anytime I can. Unlike Braxton he still gives me sweet kisses. Cherish those moments with you little ones because one day you wont be cool, you wont get to rock them, hold them, or snuggle with them like you once did.

Then there is our baby bear and he is our biggest gift this year. I am thankful that after being born at 35 weeks old which is considered "preemie" he was healthy then at birth and has continued to grow and thrive as any other baby his age.

 

 Most of all I am thankful for GOD because he is the one who has blessed me in so many ways!

 

Also, I am thankful for every one else in my family. My siblings are all very special to me I have 3. I have 2 of the best sisters in the world and an awesome brother.

My mom and dad support me and are always there for me no matter what and without them I wouldn't be here. I am glad to have good relationships with them both. My step dad has been in my life since I was 3 and I am thankful that my mom chose him.

My cousin Shelby has been my best friend since birth and even if we do not talk that often or see each other very much we always know we are there for one another. I definitely believe everyone should have a cousin best friend that you spend your entire life with because there is nothing like a friendship of someone you have grown up AND share a family with.

My granny, she is the back bone of our family. She is the one who keeps our family running smoothly. She worries about everything under the sun and stresses out for no reason but she wants to make sure everyone is taken care of so I guess worrying and stress goes hand in hand with putting others before yourself. She has taught me how to be nice, loving and caring. She is the one who has put the love for cooking and crafting in my life. I am also so thankful for her biscuit and gravy (none like it)!!! I do not know what I would do without her she is one very special lady!

my sister summer

my granny

my sister summer and my mom

broox, braxton & bryce (shelbys son)

my granny & cousin Shelby

my dad

baby bears first thanksgiving

my brother

A week of giving thanks: DAY 5

I know it's actually been 2 days since I've posted. I ended up working a double on Monday and was busy with the fam and catching up on sleep yesterday. Today I will end up having 2 posts for day 5 and day 6.

Today is our day 5 of giving thanks post!

Today we are thankful for family date nights. Unfortunately they do not happen as often as we would like because sometimes we are just so busy or low on money or both so we tend to spend a lot of time together in the house. When we actually get out and do fun stuff the boys are so excited. 

Last night we surprised the kids by taking them out to eat at zaxbys (can't go wrong with chicken tenders & grilled cheese) and then we went to watch the new movie Big Hero 6. The movie was awesome and I'm hoping there will be a sequel. It was obviously Berrans first time at the movies and he done great! He watched almost all of the movie. He ate for 10 minutes in the middle and then fell asleep the last 15 minutes. I think that's pretty impressive for a 5 month old.

Broox wanted me to take this picture because he said he is thankful for the baby swing which he thinks is his swing to sit in and watch cartoons. 

I'll be back later with the day 6 post!

A week of giving thanks: DAY 4

Today we had out first Thanksgiving meal of the week. Every year we have a meal at my great aunts house with our extended family great aunts, uncles, cousins, granny. It is all of my grannys sisters, brother, their families and my close family as well.

So today we are thankful for family and the time we get to spend together. It is nice and very important to us all especially my granny that we all remain close and that we all get together during the holidays. Pictures left to right is my uncle Dave, granny, Shelby (cousin), Lucas (cousin), summer (sister), Bryce (cousin), Broox (son), mom, Braxton (son), Berran (son), me & Chris (step dad). We may be a dysfunctional family but hey whose family isn't?! and I love them all so very much! 

Looking forward to Day 5 tomorrow!

A week of giving thanks: DAY 3

Day 3 is Berrac, Berran and myself giving thanks. Braxton and Broox are at their Nonnahs (my mom) house. 

Today Berrac and I are thankful for extra money to complete our holiday shopping, a date night even if Berran is with us, because lets face it after having 3 kids when one is only with us it feels like basically no kids at all. We enjoyed dinner, Christmas shopping and we are now about to end our night with a red box movie. 

Today Berran is thankful for mamas milk. Mamas milk is yummy and healthy. He drinks to fill his tummy and for comfort. He drinks mamas milk on demand and he chooses the booba over a bottle with mamas milk any day!

Stay tuned for day 4 of us giving thanks!

Because sometimes being a mom sucks...

Here it is 9pm at night. I'm yelling at my oldest 2 to get in and stay in the bed, attempting to watch scandal while my mind is racing thinking of all the things I HAVE to do before bed.

 

Yesterday went so smooth why on earth would I think today would be a repeat? No idea! I have 2 kids at 2 different schools with thanksgiving lunch that I had to attend because you don't want your kid to be the kid without a parent there no matter the circumstances. Unfortunately at the moment (past 6 months) we have only had 1 vehicle and of course the lunches happen to fall on the day Berrac works. I had to get the kids on the bus, load up the baby and head to take Berrac to work which is an hour away. After we got home rush rush rush nurse, shower, look presentable and get the baby ready.

 

Finally make it to Braxton's thanksgiving lunch 5 minutes late and to a child 5 minutes is like all day he had given up hope that I was even coming.

 

Next stop Brooxs lunch. I made it there on time. He wouldn't take a picture but whatever. Of course there I was the mom trying to carry a huge britax (heavy) car seat with a 20 pound infant AND a tray of food. Thank you to the beautiful mother with nicely fixed hair, business suit and heels (ya know the perfect life looking mom) that helped me. 

 

After that off to Kroger I went to only find that they didn't carry what I was looking for, left my wallet in the cart that I had already pushed in, luckily it was still there when I went to check. 

 

Once I was home it was wonderful for a whole hour and a half. BUMMER. At least I was able to enjoy my soap opera right?! Back on the road it was pick up kids and another hour trip to get Berrac from work. 

 

Home again, home AT LAST. Yeah freaking right. Time to get Braxton dressed and ready for his All Star team football practice and after that HELLO kitchen, time to cook.

 

..... AND that brings us to now, now it's 9:30 pm at least I've finished this post. I have managed to pay attention to Scandal and I know what's going on. Braxton and Broox are now fast asleep. Berran is in my lap finally in a nappy after leaving him naked and peeing in the bed. He still needs a bath I'm sure he will wake before I'm in bed anyways. He's on NO schedule but he's pretty chill and goes with the flow. My living room is a mess. My kitchen even messier now with dishes from last night and tonight's dinner. Food STILL sitting out waiting to be put up. I have one more show to watch that is important to me because it's MY TIME so maybe I'll at least get the  food put away and hopefully make it through my 10pm show. Some times being a  sucks. The stress, the tiredness, the mess, the kids, the cooking, the only MOM time is late at night with eyes barely open, but when I go around giving those one last kisses before I do close my eyes I remember how the suckiness of motherhood is all worth it and one day I will look back and miss the once said sucky days.

 

***UPDATE***

 

I wrote this post yesterday 11/20/14 so may I add to my original post that I went to bed about 12:30 only for Berran to keep me up all night long with a terrible cough. At the time his insurance is completely messed up and he is uninsured so after and hour and a half of coughing fits, wheezing and rattling in his chest I took him to the ER. Even though he is a healthy preemie what comes along with that is a higher risk for RSV and other infections I didn't want to risk anything being wrong especially with whooping cough getting worse these day.

 

We arrived at the ER around 4:30 am he had 2 breathing treatments and everything was negative and he is okay. At 6 am we were still there. I text Berrac giving him very specific directions to where the kids clothes were and what time to be looking for the busses because of course the first text he sent was I don't see any clothes laid out followed by I cant find there clothes. Of course what would men/dads do without us women/moms. I don't know why I would expect one simple thing to get done that is normally a mothers job. Anyways I told him to just leave them in the bed so they had a free day off from school. Berran and I arrived back home at 9 am and we slept most of the day. THANK YOU older bros for letting mommy get some rest. Again sometimes being a mother sucks and its tiring and things go wrong but hey that's just part of being a mom and being a parenting!

So long October & hello November!

  I know, I know yes I have been neglecting my blog for eh, I would say the last two weeks now. I have ALOT of posts to catch up on this week. I have been extremely busy. I wont say too much because some things make for a few new posts. One week of my life was pretty much dedicated to building my milk supply back up. Baby Bear and I were in the bed nursing 24/7. Then it was time for this mama to get into Halloween mode.

Halloween week went well for us. We got our pictures back just in time to hand out our home made Halloween cards with a picture inside. We visited with family. We live an hour away from family so anytime we go back it is a day spent of visiting and it is always so exhausting! 

 

 

 

Funny little story here I waited until the last minute to find pumpkins to carve. Unfortunately there were NONE anywhere. I searched both sides of town and nothing. I mean even if it was last minute WHO runs out of pumpkins? Well I ended up settling for spaghetti squash and we painted those. I was very pleased with our results they turned out so good! My boys done an awesome job.

Actual Halloween day was wow just wow filled with snow. Yes snow in October! Crazy I know. It was so cold and yucky out. We just took the kids to a trunk or treat at a nearby church. It was very crowded and we didn't get to do like any other activities but at least they got candy, right?! Next year we will be sure to leave the house early and arrive early! I work in a residential assisted living facility so when I got to work I trick or treated for my kids there and surprised them with a ton of candy and cotton candy the next day.

 

So now that brings us to November! November 1st was also cold yucky and accompanied by snow. The boys had a football game. I felt so bad for those little boys almost every one was crying from the coldness, but it's just apart of the game and the season is almost over so they will be alright. My poor Broox came running off the field crying as soon as it was over but he is so tough he stayed out there the entire game despite the coldness. Braxton of course being the big tough bro he is had to make sure we knew he DID NOT cry!

 

I'm looking forward to the week of playoffs and everything else that this wonderful month has to offer. I'm sure I will have PLENTY of things to share this month. Hope you all enjoy the start of the holiday season!!

Missing out

As a parent you never want to miss any exciting moments that go on with your child or children but sometimes you have no other choice. As much as we want to be apart of every unforgettable moment (at least it's unforgettable to us) things DO happens and things DO come up. 

 

Today was the second time in a row that I missed my child's football game and it weighs heavy on my heart. I do not want my kids to ever feel like I wanted to be absent because I don't and it means everything to me to be there and watch them play. I want them to always know that mom is their number 1 fan.

 

Last weekend I was the maid of honor in my best friends wedding. We live an hour away and I had to be with the bride getting ready early that morning which meant I was not able to see my sons play. May I add their team is small, Broox is their only extra player, as he is the youngest he doesn't normally play the entire game. It just so happened a player didn't show and Broox played the entire game for the first time AND they won 25-0! I was very sad I had to miss that game.

 

Then today I yet again had to miss a game. Braxton was sick, Broox was not so he went on and played the game without big brother. I wanted so badly to go but I had been up for 24 hours (thank you night shift) and did not feel that it was safe for me to drive alone for 30 minutes. I told Broox a million times this morning that I was sorry I could not go. It really hurts so bad when you know you're missing out on important moments but sometimes you have to remind yourself that it's normal, life is not perfect and things come up, you're not the first mom or dad to miss an event or an important moment so try not to beat yourself up. So, today that is what I'm trying to do, not let it bother me so much and looking forward to their next game!