Waving Hello to Daddy!

Waving Hello to Daddy!
Originally uploaded by OakBlossoms

Our youngest has been growing like, well, wildflowers. Sweet, pretty, and fast. She is waving, climbing the stairs, eating, and growling. She does have three older brothers. Growling seems like a must.

We have been having a lot of fun. Spring is beautiful in Washington this year. It's just gorgeous out. We have had just enough rain to enjoy it. And, enough sunshine to bring out the much needed sunshine happiness.

Our butterflies have hatched and they have been so much fun to watch. I want to let them go. But, I don't want to let them go. If you want to see what else we have been up to, check out our learning adventures at OakBlossoms Academy.

This winter has been much better then last year. Even when times were tough or too cold, there was a new little person to watch.

New little people remind you that each day is new.
New for everyone,
not just babies.
We all learn something new.
We all can get up in the morning
and watch the sunrise.

I'm not sure what happened with Good Reads. I thought at some point I could just post a review straight from their site. Goodness, I don't have time for all of this.


I've picked this up before. I thought it was time I really read it. It's beside by bed. It's getting a bit of time each night from me. I think my children have a pretty calm and compassionate life. I think I'm the one who needs help to remember to give that life to them. There are definitely some things I disagree with in this book (as a Christian). So, if you are really conservative you might choose to put this book down. Other than that I love the suggestions. I love the stories and personal input.

What is a good day?

My husband and I are trying to get on track. We flounder around. We know we need a better routine for our boys. They are so much happier when they know what is expected and I am so much happier when I get a chance for a break during the day.

We took away video games during the week. So, very helpful. They were getting into the habit of only doing work so they could play video games. They get more and more manipulative. I just can't stand that. I want to enjoy our time together and not just rush through it so we can retreat to separate corners of the house.

When should we do chores?

School doesn't really take much time once they get started. I really want to get some more of our chores done in the morning and I'm thinking perhaps I should get them done before I start schooling.

My boys do not do school when left alone. I think they should be able to handle it at this point. It's frustrating and I run out of patience and time every night. I end up fixing too many lunches and getting sidetracked with vacuuming or dog brushing or window washing or toilet scrubbing. I go to help someone wash their hands and realize their toilet is filthy and their laundry basket is full.

Boundaries and Expectations

I think if we can keep being firm with our boundaries and expectations of the boys our life will run a little smoother. I hope then I'll be able to leave them alone and they will actually complete what I give them to do.