Little Dani went home, like we were hoping she wouldn't, but when the judge speaks, we listen.
As of today, Little Joe has been in our house for almost a month. He's a joyful child and only cries when he's hungry and dirty. Any other time and he's a bubbly person.
Tonight, I held him for about an hour and tried to rock him to sleep. I guess my heart just doesn't beat slow enough to lull him to sleep.
Three weeks to Christmas, and I hope everyone gets what they want.
My list?
Let's see:
1) An Evo 4G
2) Blue Oyster Cult's On fire with rock and roll.
3) Time to spend with my family.
4) Maybe the entire two seasons of Space: Above and Beyond.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Two More Gone, and the little one on the way.
Our home has been the place of residence for two young boys for the last month. Landon and Preston graced our life and gave us a run for our money. However, when CPS came and took them to their aunt's house today, they were only too happy to leave. They never really liked it here, and I can understand that. After all *I* am strong on discipline and made them obey the rules. But when I did, it was waterworks central and cries for "mommie and daddy," who neglected them and took drugs and Daddy who intimidated the boys, the mother, the CPS case worker, and the wonderful people from safe harbor.
Two weeks ago, we were given a baby girl, who's mother is a druggie, and at the time, nobody knew who the father was. After court today, we found out that we get to keep her until November 22nd (Irony huh? Giving the baby we've been taking care of back to her druggie mother and stable dad on Thanksgiving.)
I guess I'm always going to ask why stupid, drug using parents with low IQ and maturity issues get to have children to mess up, when stable, mature people can't have children to love.
At this point, I'm just numb inside and just want to rest. I wonder how much more I can take of my heart being battered, before I just give up?
Two weeks ago, we were given a baby girl, who's mother is a druggie, and at the time, nobody knew who the father was. After court today, we found out that we get to keep her until November 22nd (Irony huh? Giving the baby we've been taking care of back to her druggie mother and stable dad on Thanksgiving.)
I guess I'm always going to ask why stupid, drug using parents with low IQ and maturity issues get to have children to mess up, when stable, mature people can't have children to love.
At this point, I'm just numb inside and just want to rest. I wonder how much more I can take of my heart being battered, before I just give up?
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Lamentations, Prayers, and hopes for the future.
To, thee, oh Lord, do we sing of our joys.
To thee, oh Lord, do we scream our Lamentations.
You are the architect of our dreams
And the reason we live and breath.
You, oh Lord, bring us joy,
as you did when you brought little angels into our lives
And you, Oh Lord, are there to comfort us in our pain,
and hold us safe under your wings.
Into your protection, Oh Creator, do we place the fates of our little angels,
as they go back to their home and we ask the following blessings:
To our Precious "Pure" Katherine, we wish patience and happiness,
may she know peace and enjoy the simple joys of childhood.
To "The one from the Beautiful Mountian," our Hamilton,
may God grant strength and wisdom to protect his sisters.
may God grant strength and wisdom to protect his sisters.
To our little "Flower," Jazmine, may God grant childhood and simple joys of discovery.
Above all, may our Angels know that we have always loved and will always love them.
And may they have the knowledge that we will always be there when we are needed.
I know that it's been a while since I've written, but I've been busy with work and the joys of being with my children. Work is work, but home is where the heart is.
Yesterday, (August 13th,) we went to family court to see what the Brilliant Minds at DFPS were going to decide for our children. To say that we are confused and shocked, is not saying enough. According to Brilliant minds, just because mother has completed most of her program, is a reason to get her children back. Nevermind that she's bipolar and when she's off of her meds, she reverts to being a beast. Nevermind that the meds that they are giving her, will put her to sleep for the night, when she's going to get three toddlers that don't want to sleep, or know how to sleep past 6 in the morning. Nevermind that she's had three strikes and each time, she's hit her kids, or neglected them, or hurt them, because she's finished most of her programs, she gets her children back.
When we went through the Foster Program, we had to get background checks on everyone in my family, including the 15 year old that lives with us during the summer, and if they lost paperwork, they told her she had to go home. But birth-mom, who's seems to have the mentality of a five year old, has a support system that refuses to submit to the background checks (her aunt,) and a pair that DFPS hasn't even started checking on, (Her neighbors.) For some reason, when the rules apply to us, we don't get breaks, but when they apply to mom, case workers and aids bend and break the rules to get their ends. Forget the fact that CASA says, "Hell no," and that the kids psychologist has *GREAT!!!!!!* concerns with them going back home.
Forget the fact that the quack that's been counseling mother, and who has never seen her interact with her kids, thinks that having her kids back, is a good idea.
To add insult to injury, the mother gets two unsupervised visits next week, at her home, then a full weekend, then on Wednesday of the next week, without us being able to say goodbye, or even trying to explain to them what's happening, they will be yanked out of our home and trundled off to mother, like a set of dogs that nobody wants. (The thing of it, is that I'm not even going to get to see them before they have to leave: I work monday thru friday nights.) Who in their right minds, thinks that just up and moving three kids is in their best interest? And what brilliant mind thinks that these kids are so stupid that they don't understand what's going on? Obviously someone who's never had kids, or thinks that they can't think for themselves. Most importantly, who thinks that just up and moving them, won't pass the wrong message that we don't want them and don't love them?
In this case, the case workers and supervisors are being cruel and heartless.
But enough of my venting. Please join with us in Prayer and ask the divine creator for peace on behalf of our children, and even though we don't understand his ways, we will do what he asks of us, and please grant our kids the knowledge that we will always love them, and that we haven't deserted them.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Between work and home. (Or OMG, it's been two months since I've posted.)
I just realized that it's been two months since I last posted. I suppose I should update you on my life.
In April, I finished the academy and reported to my post for duty. We met Sergeant Mojica, who was our Field Training Officer and started on the job training. During the OJT cycle, the warden called a lock-down and we started looking for 1800 dollars that had been reported to have been seen in one of the dorms. For the next two weeks, we turned the unit upside down and searched every bunk, looking for the elusive cash.
In June, we finally got out of OJT status and started our regular shifts. I'm on the 2/1 card, which puts me on the 6pm-6am shift, in general population, normally in buildings 3,4, and 5. So far, so good.
For the home side of those two months, the kids are getting better, slowly but surely. Cat still occasionally throws a fit, but between time outs and lengthy explanations, she's throwing fewer fits. Ham seems to occasionally pick up on his sister's bad habits, but a few minutes in time out cure him of that. Since the last time I've updated, all three kids have had Birthdays, and got lots of toys, which they rarely play with. I think they like the stupid McDonald's toys more than the store bought stuff. (Go figure, for me it was the other way around.) Oh, and Jaz started walking.
I went to pick them up from school/day care yesterday and little-bit (as we call Jaz,) walked over to the door and held up her hands, and I've got her first steps on my cell phone.
For Father's Day, my family bought me a replacement hammock, to use with the stand I've had for six years. When I opened the box and started to put it together, I realized that we had lost the hooks during the last two moves. So, I went to Lowe's and spent 19 bucks for 4 feet of chain, 2 d-rings, and 2 S-hooks, and used those to put the hammock up.
Today, I actually got to try that hammock out, and it feels good. I'd suggest it for everyone. There's just nothing like relaxing in the shade. The only thing missing is the ice cream and lemonade.
In April, I finished the academy and reported to my post for duty. We met Sergeant Mojica, who was our Field Training Officer and started on the job training. During the OJT cycle, the warden called a lock-down and we started looking for 1800 dollars that had been reported to have been seen in one of the dorms. For the next two weeks, we turned the unit upside down and searched every bunk, looking for the elusive cash.
In June, we finally got out of OJT status and started our regular shifts. I'm on the 2/1 card, which puts me on the 6pm-6am shift, in general population, normally in buildings 3,4, and 5. So far, so good.
For the home side of those two months, the kids are getting better, slowly but surely. Cat still occasionally throws a fit, but between time outs and lengthy explanations, she's throwing fewer fits. Ham seems to occasionally pick up on his sister's bad habits, but a few minutes in time out cure him of that. Since the last time I've updated, all three kids have had Birthdays, and got lots of toys, which they rarely play with. I think they like the stupid McDonald's toys more than the store bought stuff. (Go figure, for me it was the other way around.) Oh, and Jaz started walking.
I went to pick them up from school/day care yesterday and little-bit (as we call Jaz,) walked over to the door and held up her hands, and I've got her first steps on my cell phone.
For Father's Day, my family bought me a replacement hammock, to use with the stand I've had for six years. When I opened the box and started to put it together, I realized that we had lost the hooks during the last two moves. So, I went to Lowe's and spent 19 bucks for 4 feet of chain, 2 d-rings, and 2 S-hooks, and used those to put the hammock up.
Today, I actually got to try that hammock out, and it feels good. I'd suggest it for everyone. There's just nothing like relaxing in the shade. The only thing missing is the ice cream and lemonade.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
And he's outta there........(Or hi ho, ho ho, it's off to work I go.)
Hello again, from White world. This last week was interesting and filled with chills and thrills.
On Monday, we had the book lessons on firing Revolvers, Rifles, and Shotguns. I'll admit it's been over 14 years since I've even thought of picking up a firearm.
It was refreshing to know that I haven't lost my touch with the revolver. On the beam his, I scored 170%, and didn't get to practice the beam hits with the rifle, since the laser was out of alignment.
On Tuesday, we went to the range and held the first round qualifications with the weapons. I scored 0 hits with the AR-15, and that was because it was the first time I'd ever even held one, much less fired one. On the revolver, I did good. I hit 28 out of 30 hits from 3 yards, 7yards and 9 yards. The Shotgun was easy, since I've fired 12 gauges before.
On Wednesday, we requalified with the AR's and I hit 8 out of 10 shots. Needless to say the evil target was dead.
On Thursday, we did the final PAT/DT class and I brought my push ups up from 13 to 21, my sit ups from 20 to 31, my squats at 25, and had a better score before the run. I did cut 1 minute off of my 1/4 mile, coming in at 2minutes 27 seconds.
On Friday, myself and 7 of my cohorts got the priviledge of cleaning the revolvers from the qualifications on Tuesday and Wednesday.
That afternoon at 2:00pm, we were sworn in as Correction Officers for the State of Texas, and on Monday, we start our first day behind the chainlink fence.
I'll let you know how it goes from there.
On Monday, we had the book lessons on firing Revolvers, Rifles, and Shotguns. I'll admit it's been over 14 years since I've even thought of picking up a firearm.
It was refreshing to know that I haven't lost my touch with the revolver. On the beam his, I scored 170%, and didn't get to practice the beam hits with the rifle, since the laser was out of alignment.
On Tuesday, we went to the range and held the first round qualifications with the weapons. I scored 0 hits with the AR-15, and that was because it was the first time I'd ever even held one, much less fired one. On the revolver, I did good. I hit 28 out of 30 hits from 3 yards, 7yards and 9 yards. The Shotgun was easy, since I've fired 12 gauges before.
On Wednesday, we requalified with the AR's and I hit 8 out of 10 shots. Needless to say the evil target was dead.
On Thursday, we did the final PAT/DT class and I brought my push ups up from 13 to 21, my sit ups from 20 to 31, my squats at 25, and had a better score before the run. I did cut 1 minute off of my 1/4 mile, coming in at 2minutes 27 seconds.
On Friday, myself and 7 of my cohorts got the priviledge of cleaning the revolvers from the qualifications on Tuesday and Wednesday.
That afternoon at 2:00pm, we were sworn in as Correction Officers for the State of Texas, and on Monday, we start our first day behind the chainlink fence.
I'll let you know how it goes from there.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Graduation Day approaching
It's been 4 weeks since I started the TDCJ academy in Plainview, and tomorrow, (Friday the 16th,) We tour Clements Units in Amarillo, and next week I graduate from the academy.
It's been 4 weeks of Lessons, assignments, DT/PT, CS/OC gas lessons, and next week, we learn, or my case, relearn to shoot weapons. Here's hoping I can hit the broad side of a barn. :)
After Graduation, I go to the Smith Unit in LaMesa, and will be working hard for my pay.
Wish me luck and pray I can hit that barn.
It's been 4 weeks of Lessons, assignments, DT/PT, CS/OC gas lessons, and next week, we learn, or my case, relearn to shoot weapons. Here's hoping I can hit the broad side of a barn. :)
After Graduation, I go to the Smith Unit in LaMesa, and will be working hard for my pay.
Wish me luck and pray I can hit that barn.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Wayback machine: Recap March 19-28 2010
It's been a long week..and I've been a bit busy, so let's see what's happened.
The kids went to visitation and had a nightmare Tuesday night. I passed the first and second test at the academy.
My class passed our uniform inspection, after the third time. I was a bit concerned that we wouldn't pass it, namely because different people inspected each time, and we finally got a consistent inspector.
We learned how to polish the boots to shiny perfection.
We toured the prison and got to watch the "apes" in solitary act like 5 year olds.
On Saturday, I went and helped my fellow club members at the Lubbock Easter Egg hunt, and today, we went to church.
Current count: 6 meltdowns (1 a day.)
20 time outs
3 cool down periods.
As for the cool down periods, I've learned to tell the cranky kid it's because he/she needs to cool down and relax, and it's not punishment.
The oldest still doesn't like to go to bed and cries, but I've been reading her bible stories before bed and it seems to help.
The youngest finally slept all the way through the night, just one night. Mommy fed her a mixture of milk and oatmeal to fill her belly.
We'll see if she sleep all the way through the night tonight.
Until next week, be well.
The kids went to visitation and had a nightmare Tuesday night. I passed the first and second test at the academy.
My class passed our uniform inspection, after the third time. I was a bit concerned that we wouldn't pass it, namely because different people inspected each time, and we finally got a consistent inspector.
We learned how to polish the boots to shiny perfection.
We toured the prison and got to watch the "apes" in solitary act like 5 year olds.
On Saturday, I went and helped my fellow club members at the Lubbock Easter Egg hunt, and today, we went to church.
Current count: 6 meltdowns (1 a day.)
20 time outs
3 cool down periods.
As for the cool down periods, I've learned to tell the cranky kid it's because he/she needs to cool down and relax, and it's not punishment.
The oldest still doesn't like to go to bed and cries, but I've been reading her bible stories before bed and it seems to help.
The youngest finally slept all the way through the night, just one night. Mommy fed her a mixture of milk and oatmeal to fill her belly.
We'll see if she sleep all the way through the night tonight.
Until next week, be well.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Every day it goes faster, going faster than a rollercoaster.
Sorry I haven't said anything for the last couple a' days. It's been busy.
Poor Kacey, she said the kids were just wild yesterday, and the dogs were even worse.
You gotta feel for a frazzled teenager, however, on the bright side, if a boy wants to neck, she'll say no, (chuckles)
Yesterday, we had a full day of prison class. It's interesting, and today was just as interesting. We got to get fingerprints, ID's made, and ate in the staff cafeteria. It wasn't bad food. I've had worse in some hospitals I've worked at.
We also got fitted for uniforms. Pants 2 sizes too large, because they'll shrink when washed, and a shirt that I thought might be too big, but fit. We did the always popular "In the cup" test, and our first written test. I passed it with a 94.
I got home and the kids were sitting out in the doghouse. literally, they were inside the doghouse, sitting down and drinking juice. I couldn't help but laugh.
Just a couple of things I've forgotten over the last few days.
3/18 - Happy Birthday Dad
3/19 - Happy Birthday Hon.
Poor Kacey, she said the kids were just wild yesterday, and the dogs were even worse.
You gotta feel for a frazzled teenager, however, on the bright side, if a boy wants to neck, she'll say no, (chuckles)
Yesterday, we had a full day of prison class. It's interesting, and today was just as interesting. We got to get fingerprints, ID's made, and ate in the staff cafeteria. It wasn't bad food. I've had worse in some hospitals I've worked at.
We also got fitted for uniforms. Pants 2 sizes too large, because they'll shrink when washed, and a shirt that I thought might be too big, but fit. We did the always popular "In the cup" test, and our first written test. I passed it with a 94.
I got home and the kids were sitting out in the doghouse. literally, they were inside the doghouse, sitting down and drinking juice. I couldn't help but laugh.
Just a couple of things I've forgotten over the last few days.
3/18 - Happy Birthday Dad
3/19 - Happy Birthday Hon.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
The Magic number 117 and the snoopy dance.
Do you remember watching Peanuts as a child, and watching Snoopy do the "Happy Dance?"
Do you remember how it goes? The beagle points his nose in the air and dances on his hind feet as he cocks his head to the right, then to the left, and then to the right again.
So, like Dora singing, "we did it, we did it, we did it yes." I successfully completed my test today.
I only needed a 75, in order to pass the physical agility test.
I did 20 sit ups for 20 points
17 push ups for 17 points
30 deep squats for 30 points
carried a 45 pound shot bag 30 yards for 10 points
Climbed the ladder 4 times for 20 points
and ran 1/4 mile in 3minutes 11 sec for 20 points
and the grand total is 117 points.
And that's why I was almost doing the Snoopy Dance.
Do you remember how it goes? The beagle points his nose in the air and dances on his hind feet as he cocks his head to the right, then to the left, and then to the right again.
So, like Dora singing, "we did it, we did it, we did it yes." I successfully completed my test today.
I only needed a 75, in order to pass the physical agility test.
I did 20 sit ups for 20 points
17 push ups for 17 points
30 deep squats for 30 points
carried a 45 pound shot bag 30 yards for 10 points
Climbed the ladder 4 times for 20 points
and ran 1/4 mile in 3minutes 11 sec for 20 points
and the grand total is 117 points.
And that's why I was almost doing the Snoopy Dance.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Oh, Ruby Tuesday, who could hang a name on you?
Today, the teenager and I took the kids for their visit to mom. Mom looked okay, but I think I detected a bit of that slow mental speed that the folks at CPS tried to tell us about.
Let's start off with the meltdowns. Cath had one, because she didn't want to wear the dress mom Kristie laid out, Ham had a small meltdown because he didn't want to wear the clothes laid out. Jaz didn't melt down...ice water in those viens. :)
Mom showed up at 10:06 and greeted the kids. "Cake!" Cath demanded, because her birthday was yesterday. She's now 4. Mom didn't have cake, but did want to take them out to eat at Mickey D's. Of course, that was after the family pictures she wanted to take. Cath, from what I understand, didn't sit still for the pictures, thus holding them up for Mickey D's. So, they missed lunch, and mom didn't change Jaz's diaper during the visit. If I were CPS, that's a thing I'd be watching for, the fact that mother didn't even change the diaper. Needless to say, we did that as soon as we got home.
That was right after I stopped and got them kiddie meals at Mickey D's. Now, we are just waiting for Ham's ECI teacher to show up.
By the way, The teenager has been a godsend this week, I wish she'd stay with us. In case she reads this, her name is Kacey, and she's a wonderful young lady.
More tomorrow.......
Let's start off with the meltdowns. Cath had one, because she didn't want to wear the dress mom Kristie laid out, Ham had a small meltdown because he didn't want to wear the clothes laid out. Jaz didn't melt down...ice water in those viens. :)
Mom showed up at 10:06 and greeted the kids. "Cake!" Cath demanded, because her birthday was yesterday. She's now 4. Mom didn't have cake, but did want to take them out to eat at Mickey D's. Of course, that was after the family pictures she wanted to take. Cath, from what I understand, didn't sit still for the pictures, thus holding them up for Mickey D's. So, they missed lunch, and mom didn't change Jaz's diaper during the visit. If I were CPS, that's a thing I'd be watching for, the fact that mother didn't even change the diaper. Needless to say, we did that as soon as we got home.
That was right after I stopped and got them kiddie meals at Mickey D's. Now, we are just waiting for Ham's ECI teacher to show up.
By the way, The teenager has been a godsend this week, I wish she'd stay with us. In case she reads this, her name is Kacey, and she's a wonderful young lady.
More tomorrow.......
Monday, March 15, 2010
Rainy (snowy) days and mondays always get me down..........
Today seems to count for both. It's a monday, and it's raining and snowing. Darn it all.
Jaz decided she didn't want to sleep last night, so I was up with her at 2,4,and 5:30, while the other two kids, the teenager, and my loving wife slept. Poor Jaz, everytime I picked her up and rocked her, she went to sleep, but everytime I put her down, she woke up. Believe me, I can sympathize with sleepless nights, I've had a lot of those myself.
I'm hoping that wednesday is the day that lets me go back to work. I feel like I can run the 1/4 of a mile in less than 4 minutes. I know I can do the 20 push-ups and 20 sit ups, and deep knee bends, and carry 35 pounds 30 yards. (After all, a bass drum weighs more than that,) and climb ladders (Been there, done that.)
Anyway, for today, I'm down, mainly because of the monday, rainy day thing.
Jaz decided she didn't want to sleep last night, so I was up with her at 2,4,and 5:30, while the other two kids, the teenager, and my loving wife slept. Poor Jaz, everytime I picked her up and rocked her, she went to sleep, but everytime I put her down, she woke up. Believe me, I can sympathize with sleepless nights, I've had a lot of those myself.
I'm hoping that wednesday is the day that lets me go back to work. I feel like I can run the 1/4 of a mile in less than 4 minutes. I know I can do the 20 push-ups and 20 sit ups, and deep knee bends, and carry 35 pounds 30 yards. (After all, a bass drum weighs more than that,) and climb ladders (Been there, done that.)
Anyway, for today, I'm down, mainly because of the monday, rainy day thing.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
And the time change kicked our butt........
We had all three kids, plus the teenager bathed and ready for bed by 10pm, last night, and during all the hoopla, I forgot to set the clocks ahead an hour.
Of course, the baby (jaz) doesn't know anything about time changes, and when she got hungry this morning, it was at 6:30am, but of course my clock still said it was 5:30am. I didn't realize what time it was until I walked in and the DVR clock was different than the clock on the wall. Needless to say, it was saying 8:00, and I don't think that's enough time to get jaz, kath, and Ham ready to go to sunday school. I know it definitely wasn't enough time to get the teenager ready to go.
So, we stayed home. I only had to use the time out card, once. The rest of the day, Kath was a good girl.
I love these kids, and it bothers me that Kath won't be a normal 4 year old. She still thinks of Jaz as her baby, and doesn't listen. I've gotten used to the temper tantrums when I give her a time out.
Ham is my good boy. He obeys, he pays attention...now if I could just get him potty trained, we'd have it made. He loves to be out doors and loves to ride the scooter and try to climb the tree.
Jaz is only happy if someone's holding her and walking around. Other than that, she's a wonderful child. When I'm around them, my blood pressure drops and I feel calm.
Of course, the teenager, Kacey, is Kristie's sister, and is a good young lady, and if I could only get that perpetual frown off of her face, we'd be good to go.
It's bedtime, and all the kids are in bed, and the house is sort of quiet.
Of course, the baby (jaz) doesn't know anything about time changes, and when she got hungry this morning, it was at 6:30am, but of course my clock still said it was 5:30am. I didn't realize what time it was until I walked in and the DVR clock was different than the clock on the wall. Needless to say, it was saying 8:00, and I don't think that's enough time to get jaz, kath, and Ham ready to go to sunday school. I know it definitely wasn't enough time to get the teenager ready to go.
So, we stayed home. I only had to use the time out card, once. The rest of the day, Kath was a good girl.
I love these kids, and it bothers me that Kath won't be a normal 4 year old. She still thinks of Jaz as her baby, and doesn't listen. I've gotten used to the temper tantrums when I give her a time out.
Ham is my good boy. He obeys, he pays attention...now if I could just get him potty trained, we'd have it made. He loves to be out doors and loves to ride the scooter and try to climb the tree.
Jaz is only happy if someone's holding her and walking around. Other than that, she's a wonderful child. When I'm around them, my blood pressure drops and I feel calm.
Of course, the teenager, Kacey, is Kristie's sister, and is a good young lady, and if I could only get that perpetual frown off of her face, we'd be good to go.
It's bedtime, and all the kids are in bed, and the house is sort of quiet.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Going to the park, time out, the little one is fascinated by the kitchen.
On the second day of foster care, my wife said to, "I'm going to lose my mind."
It only makes sense since the oldest girl started trying her parents at 2 in the morning. Little feet wandering the floor at 2am, bothers mother slightly. Then at 4am, she was found coming out of the babies room, then at 6, she was up and running. That little girl starts talking when she wakes up and doesn't take a breath or even stop talking until she's asleep.
During the afternoon, we went to the park and let them climb all over the slide. It was fun watching them, but if you ever think that will put them to sleep, no way, it just juiced them up.
Then we came back and finally put the playpen up to contain the littlest one. That was after we spent most of the day trying to keep her out of the kitchen. For some reason, she just has this fascination with the linoleum.
After eating dinner, we let the kids play in the living room, and had our daily meltdown when we told the oldest not to stand on the windowsill. After giving her three warnings, I had the temerity to ground her to her room for five minutes. You'd think I was putting her in a dank dark cell all by herself for life.
Five minutes later, we released her from solitary and let her play in the living room.
Tomorrow's lesson? Kacey is a horsie and she gives free rides. (laughs)
It only makes sense since the oldest girl started trying her parents at 2 in the morning. Little feet wandering the floor at 2am, bothers mother slightly. Then at 4am, she was found coming out of the babies room, then at 6, she was up and running. That little girl starts talking when she wakes up and doesn't take a breath or even stop talking until she's asleep.
During the afternoon, we went to the park and let them climb all over the slide. It was fun watching them, but if you ever think that will put them to sleep, no way, it just juiced them up.
Then we came back and finally put the playpen up to contain the littlest one. That was after we spent most of the day trying to keep her out of the kitchen. For some reason, she just has this fascination with the linoleum.
After eating dinner, we let the kids play in the living room, and had our daily meltdown when we told the oldest not to stand on the windowsill. After giving her three warnings, I had the temerity to ground her to her room for five minutes. You'd think I was putting her in a dank dark cell all by herself for life.
Five minutes later, we released her from solitary and let her play in the living room.
Tomorrow's lesson? Kacey is a horsie and she gives free rides. (laughs)
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Of food, weight, height, play, bath, and sleep, blessed sleep
T+1 day, and so far, all is well. The foster parent express is just smokin' down the tracks. We were all set to start our day, when "da boy," decided he didn't want to wear the Texas Tech Windbreaker.
I was like, "Yay, this kid has some taste....he doesn't like that double T brand." When we let him put on the other jacket, he was fine. On the up side, at least he didn't have to wear that camo jacket.
The girl woke up and chattered as she figured out what she wanted to wear. And the baby did what she does best and drooled as she cuddles in my arms.
After getting them all dressed, we went to the WIC office and got each of them a card. From what I could gather, they get double what they would have gotten before. Again, "yay," they'll have food. They weighted the kids, they measured the height, and then had to "Stick" the older girl's finger for blood work.
Before you wonder how that worked, I didn't lie to her at all, "It's gonna be okay, it'll be a little sting, and it'll be over." I held her hand, so she'd know she was okay, and then waited in the hallway with the baby while the two older ones followed Mom into the nutritionists office.
Then it was back home, with the two oldest left with me, while the baby went with mommy shopping for nutritious food.
Being a substitute teacher does have some benefits, and I used them, when I had to send the oldest girl into a time out, for not doing what I said. She threw a fit when I left her in her room by herself. Most parents might have given up, but I drew that steely resolve and let her cry it out.
Then mom came back and let me unload the car. Don't ya know I just live to unload the car? It's true. Just ask.
After a bit, mom just decided she had to run and get the baby tub from once upon a child, and she left me alone with them again.
I was counting down the seconds until she got back and bath time started. Once all three were bathed, she read them a story, while I relaxed, for the first time today. Finally, she sent them to bed, and I took them time to pen this journey.
So, it's T+1 day and FPA Express is on course and speed. There are no troubles here, Houston.
I was like, "Yay, this kid has some taste....he doesn't like that double T brand." When we let him put on the other jacket, he was fine. On the up side, at least he didn't have to wear that camo jacket.
The girl woke up and chattered as she figured out what she wanted to wear. And the baby did what she does best and drooled as she cuddles in my arms.
After getting them all dressed, we went to the WIC office and got each of them a card. From what I could gather, they get double what they would have gotten before. Again, "yay," they'll have food. They weighted the kids, they measured the height, and then had to "Stick" the older girl's finger for blood work.
Before you wonder how that worked, I didn't lie to her at all, "It's gonna be okay, it'll be a little sting, and it'll be over." I held her hand, so she'd know she was okay, and then waited in the hallway with the baby while the two older ones followed Mom into the nutritionists office.
Then it was back home, with the two oldest left with me, while the baby went with mommy shopping for nutritious food.
Being a substitute teacher does have some benefits, and I used them, when I had to send the oldest girl into a time out, for not doing what I said. She threw a fit when I left her in her room by herself. Most parents might have given up, but I drew that steely resolve and let her cry it out.
Then mom came back and let me unload the car. Don't ya know I just live to unload the car? It's true. Just ask.
After a bit, mom just decided she had to run and get the baby tub from once upon a child, and she left me alone with them again.
I was counting down the seconds until she got back and bath time started. Once all three were bathed, she read them a story, while I relaxed, for the first time today. Finally, she sent them to bed, and I took them time to pen this journey.
So, it's T+1 day and FPA Express is on course and speed. There are no troubles here, Houston.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
T-1 hour and counting
The count is at T-1 hour and counting, and I have this conversation going through my head.
"FPA, Houston, T-1 Hour to go. System Check."
"Houston, FPA, All systems go."
"Are you sure?"
"As sure as I can be."
"You do know that you can't just send them back once they are there, right?"
"Affirmative, Houston."
"What will you do if..........."
"We'll do what other parents have done, and belt in for the ride, houston."
Am I bit nervous? Sure, but this is what most new parents must feel like. We'll have three kids under 4, and with their arrival 22 years of living on my own and 3 years of marriage, without kids, will change, and of course I'm a bit nervous.
Of the questions that go through my head, the most important is: "Will I be a good parent?"
The Answer: Only time will tell. I'm sure I'll get ribbing from my sister about the way we raise the kids and how we treat them. It should be interesting to see which way of nurturing works best: my sisters mercurial parenting style, or our calm style of parenting.
But like any one in the armed forces can tell you, "Your plans never survive the first meeting with the enemy."
"FPA, Houston, T-1 Hour to go. System Check."
"Houston, FPA, All systems go."
"Are you sure?"
"As sure as I can be."
"You do know that you can't just send them back once they are there, right?"
"Affirmative, Houston."
"What will you do if..........."
"We'll do what other parents have done, and belt in for the ride, houston."
Am I bit nervous? Sure, but this is what most new parents must feel like. We'll have three kids under 4, and with their arrival 22 years of living on my own and 3 years of marriage, without kids, will change, and of course I'm a bit nervous.
Of the questions that go through my head, the most important is: "Will I be a good parent?"
The Answer: Only time will tell. I'm sure I'll get ribbing from my sister about the way we raise the kids and how we treat them. It should be interesting to see which way of nurturing works best: my sisters mercurial parenting style, or our calm style of parenting.
But like any one in the armed forces can tell you, "Your plans never survive the first meeting with the enemy."
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
It's not a bad day
Mother nature is mother nature, and she does her own things for her own reasons. Take for instance; the rain for the last few days. The same moisture that greened up the grass in my new back yard, also started a slow rot in the boards that make up my new fence.
Okay, it's not a new house, the house was probably built in the 50's, and the fence was probably set up at the same time. On one side, it's being held up by a heavy piece of concrete, and on the other side, by a strong piece of wood. But hey, I don't own the house, I just rent it, so I can't get the owner to fix the fence.
As I was saying, the slow rot that taking part in the fence, hit an end point this morning, when my super beagle (Simon) either dug a hole through the wood, or found it from last night, and called his brother (Duke) out into an adventure that sent them eight blocks from home.
Luckily, I found them and brought them back, and spent most of the morning fixing the four slats that had the rot.
Now, here it is, 2:00pm, and I'm sitting outside, listening to the internet radio (I love wireless,) and typing this blog post.
Sooner or later, this afternoon, I'll have to lock the yahoos in the garage for 5 minutes, while I go and run once around the block.
The distance is 1/4 mile and I need to run that 1/4 mile in less than 3 minutes, and then do 20 sit ups, 20 push ups, 20 deep squats, then carry 45 pounds for 30 yards in less than a minute, and then climb 4 ladders in order to pass the physical activity test for the new job that I need.
And what happens when you pass those tests? I get to attend the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Academy, and take my place as a correction officer.
It sounds like a challenge, and I love a challenge. Who knows, I might be better at this job than I was at my last job.
Till next time.
Okay, it's not a new house, the house was probably built in the 50's, and the fence was probably set up at the same time. On one side, it's being held up by a heavy piece of concrete, and on the other side, by a strong piece of wood. But hey, I don't own the house, I just rent it, so I can't get the owner to fix the fence.
As I was saying, the slow rot that taking part in the fence, hit an end point this morning, when my super beagle (Simon) either dug a hole through the wood, or found it from last night, and called his brother (Duke) out into an adventure that sent them eight blocks from home.
Luckily, I found them and brought them back, and spent most of the morning fixing the four slats that had the rot.
Now, here it is, 2:00pm, and I'm sitting outside, listening to the internet radio (I love wireless,) and typing this blog post.
Sooner or later, this afternoon, I'll have to lock the yahoos in the garage for 5 minutes, while I go and run once around the block.
The distance is 1/4 mile and I need to run that 1/4 mile in less than 3 minutes, and then do 20 sit ups, 20 push ups, 20 deep squats, then carry 45 pounds for 30 yards in less than a minute, and then climb 4 ladders in order to pass the physical activity test for the new job that I need.
And what happens when you pass those tests? I get to attend the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Academy, and take my place as a correction officer.
It sounds like a challenge, and I love a challenge. Who knows, I might be better at this job than I was at my last job.
Till next time.
T-16 Hours and counting
That's right, the countdown is at t-16 hours and counting. No, I'm not talking about how long it will be until we lift off from mother earth and greet father sky. It's T-16 hours and counting until our home is filled with the pitter/patter of little feet, and it's been a long and rocky three years since we started this journey.
You see, I married the most beautiful and generous woman three years ago, and we started our life, happily envisioning our own contribution to the world. We so badly wanted children of our own. Sadly, my wife has a medical condition that prevents her from having children, and while I was momentarily disappointed, I bucked up and put my faith in God, as I always have.
We went to specialists, who ran tests, and coallated reports for a year, and finally told us that we couldn't have kids.
From there, we put in our paperwork to an adoption agency, who showed our profile to a young woman who was having a child that she didn't think she could take care of.... yeah right. She decided to keep the child and raise it on her own. My wife was crushed, and I comforted her the best I could. I railed and cursed, and envisioned crushing the people at the adoption agency between scylla and carybdis.
Our next step was to take Pride classes at Texas Department of Family Protective services, with the idea that if we couldn't have children of our own, we could at least be foster parents.
So, in less than 16 hours, our house will become home to two little girls and one little boy, who's mother can't take care of them. We invited the kids over to visit our house last week, and they hadn't been there more than five minutes before they called me Dad, and my wife Mommy.
Part of me wil be so happy to have children around the house, even if they aren't fully ours, unless their mother fails her assignments from the CPS folk.
Would I adopt them? In a heartbeat. Will I love them? As if they are my own children.
How will it work? I'll let you know. Feel free to come back and keep up with the saga.
You see, I married the most beautiful and generous woman three years ago, and we started our life, happily envisioning our own contribution to the world. We so badly wanted children of our own. Sadly, my wife has a medical condition that prevents her from having children, and while I was momentarily disappointed, I bucked up and put my faith in God, as I always have.
We went to specialists, who ran tests, and coallated reports for a year, and finally told us that we couldn't have kids.
From there, we put in our paperwork to an adoption agency, who showed our profile to a young woman who was having a child that she didn't think she could take care of.... yeah right. She decided to keep the child and raise it on her own. My wife was crushed, and I comforted her the best I could. I railed and cursed, and envisioned crushing the people at the adoption agency between scylla and carybdis.
Our next step was to take Pride classes at Texas Department of Family Protective services, with the idea that if we couldn't have children of our own, we could at least be foster parents.
So, in less than 16 hours, our house will become home to two little girls and one little boy, who's mother can't take care of them. We invited the kids over to visit our house last week, and they hadn't been there more than five minutes before they called me Dad, and my wife Mommy.
Part of me wil be so happy to have children around the house, even if they aren't fully ours, unless their mother fails her assignments from the CPS folk.
Would I adopt them? In a heartbeat. Will I love them? As if they are my own children.
How will it work? I'll let you know. Feel free to come back and keep up with the saga.
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