However, today they are Australian citizens.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Introducing....
Isaac and Elizabeth Armstrong. They really don't look any different than they did yesterday.
However, today they are Australian citizens.
However, today they are Australian citizens.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
A Scottish Poem
Falling Snow
Author Unknown
See the pretty snowflakes
Falling from the sky,
On the wall and housetops
Soft and thick they lie.
On the window ledges,
On the branches bare,
Now how fast they gather,
Filling all the air.
Look into the garden,
Where the grass was green;
Covered by the snowflakes,
Not a blade is seen.
Now the bare black bushes,
All look soft and white,
Every twig is laden -
What a pretty sight!
Author Unknown
See the pretty snowflakes
Falling from the sky,
On the wall and housetops
Soft and thick they lie.
On the window ledges,
On the branches bare,
Now how fast they gather,
Filling all the air.
Look into the garden,
Where the grass was green;
Covered by the snowflakes,
Not a blade is seen.
Now the bare black bushes,
All look soft and white,
Every twig is laden -
What a pretty sight!
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Winter Wonderland
Late this afternoon it snowed. We've had about 1 inch of snow - not much in the grand scale of things but enough for us to go "wow".
It seems strange, but oddly right for it to be snowing in the lead up to Christmas. Having experienced 26 or so hot christmas', I feel a tinge of home sickness. However, outside matches the songs we grew up with and the pictures we saw on christmas cards, so a little part of me feels like this is right.
Back to the snow....Did you know it takes about half an hour to get two children and one self into snow gear? By the time you find the snow boots, discover that the big brother hand me downs don't fit, find alternative old shoes, get into snow pants and jackets, get undressed again for a potty stop and then dressed again, about 30 mintues have passed.
Despite the rough start, we managed to get out into the snow. Mouths were open, catching snow flakes on tongues. Feet were stomped through the snow to make foot prints. Gloves were taken off for brief moments to discover that snow really was cold.
By now it was starting to get dark - as it does around here at 4.30 in the afternoon - so inside we headed. And what better activity to do on a snowing evening than to decorate the christmas tree. Although in writing it may seem like a peaceful moment, with the night sky filled with falling snowflakes, lights on the christmas tree, decorations being hung - it was actually utter chaos. Tinsel was caught around ornaments, children were pulling out ornaments with great speed and the cat was madly trying to jump upon any thing that glittered (in other words...everything).
However, now Isaac and Lizzy are alseep. The house is quiet. Outside is covered in white. The christmas tree is glowing in it's corner. It really does seem like a winter wonderland.
It seems strange, but oddly right for it to be snowing in the lead up to Christmas. Having experienced 26 or so hot christmas', I feel a tinge of home sickness. However, outside matches the songs we grew up with and the pictures we saw on christmas cards, so a little part of me feels like this is right.
Back to the snow....Did you know it takes about half an hour to get two children and one self into snow gear? By the time you find the snow boots, discover that the big brother hand me downs don't fit, find alternative old shoes, get into snow pants and jackets, get undressed again for a potty stop and then dressed again, about 30 mintues have passed.
Despite the rough start, we managed to get out into the snow. Mouths were open, catching snow flakes on tongues. Feet were stomped through the snow to make foot prints. Gloves were taken off for brief moments to discover that snow really was cold.
By now it was starting to get dark - as it does around here at 4.30 in the afternoon - so inside we headed. And what better activity to do on a snowing evening than to decorate the christmas tree. Although in writing it may seem like a peaceful moment, with the night sky filled with falling snowflakes, lights on the christmas tree, decorations being hung - it was actually utter chaos. Tinsel was caught around ornaments, children were pulling out ornaments with great speed and the cat was madly trying to jump upon any thing that glittered (in other words...everything).
However, now Isaac and Lizzy are alseep. The house is quiet. Outside is covered in white. The christmas tree is glowing in it's corner. It really does seem like a winter wonderland.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Brrrrr....
I went out today around 1.30pm and as I was about to get into the car I noticed that as I breathed out, I made "smoke".
Brrrr....what were we thinking! Isn't that only supposed to happen in the early hours of a winter morning?
Brrrr....what were we thinking! Isn't that only supposed to happen in the early hours of a winter morning?
Three Years
Elizabeth turned three yesterday.
When I think over the last three years, it seems like so much has changed. I've seen Lizzy grow from a tiny helpless baby, into a little lady who thinks she can do anything and everything. (Even swimming without our assistance in a fast moving river. Naturally we didn't allow that little show of independance.) Isaac has grown from a toddler to a little boy, who is now going to preschool, and will start Kindergarten next year. Since Lizzy was born, we've bought a house in the USA. It gives a more permanent feeling to living here, even though that is not certain. We've been home to Australia twice, and have had friends and family come to stay with us a few times too.
Relatively speaking though, the last three years have been peaceful. The three years prior to Lizzy being born make everything pale in comparison. It's hard to believe that in those three years, I fell pregnant, Ben was offered a job in California, we sold our house, cars & possessions, moved countries, had a baby, Ben was offered a job in Washington, moved states, had a miscarriage, then fell pregnant with Lizzy. Whoo. That's it...I think.
It just goes to show that we never really know what is in store for us in our lives. However, our family believes that God has us in his hands and we will trust the next three years to Him. Shall I add in here, that three more years of quiet would suit me fine though.
And just to show you how our little girl is no longer helpless!
When I think over the last three years, it seems like so much has changed. I've seen Lizzy grow from a tiny helpless baby, into a little lady who thinks she can do anything and everything. (Even swimming without our assistance in a fast moving river. Naturally we didn't allow that little show of independance.) Isaac has grown from a toddler to a little boy, who is now going to preschool, and will start Kindergarten next year. Since Lizzy was born, we've bought a house in the USA. It gives a more permanent feeling to living here, even though that is not certain. We've been home to Australia twice, and have had friends and family come to stay with us a few times too.
Relatively speaking though, the last three years have been peaceful. The three years prior to Lizzy being born make everything pale in comparison. It's hard to believe that in those three years, I fell pregnant, Ben was offered a job in California, we sold our house, cars & possessions, moved countries, had a baby, Ben was offered a job in Washington, moved states, had a miscarriage, then fell pregnant with Lizzy. Whoo. That's it...I think.
It just goes to show that we never really know what is in store for us in our lives. However, our family believes that God has us in his hands and we will trust the next three years to Him. Shall I add in here, that three more years of quiet would suit me fine though.
And just to show you how our little girl is no longer helpless!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Facial Fur
The other week we had a preschool conference with Isaac's teachers. Once again I was told that he was a delight to have in the class which, of course, warmed my heart.
However, a curious observation was made. They asked me if I have noticed him playing with his face at home, because he was doing it alot at school.
To be honest, I had never noticed but since it's been pointed out I am seeing it quite a bit.
Fast forward to the dinner table tonight. Isaac is sitting at the table, playing with his face. Instead of just telling him to keep his hands away from his face, I decide to find out the "why".
"Isaac, why are you playing with your face?"
"I am playing with the fur."
I hate to dissapoint him, but I don't think this face will need a shave for a number of years.
However, a curious observation was made. They asked me if I have noticed him playing with his face at home, because he was doing it alot at school.
To be honest, I had never noticed but since it's been pointed out I am seeing it quite a bit.
Fast forward to the dinner table tonight. Isaac is sitting at the table, playing with his face. Instead of just telling him to keep his hands away from his face, I decide to find out the "why".
"Isaac, why are you playing with your face?"
"I am playing with the fur."
I hate to dissapoint him, but I don't think this face will need a shave for a number of years.
Thankful
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day.
These days I know alot about the history and traditions of Thanksgiving. I suppose it's what happens when a non-American comes across a traditional holiday and wonders what on earth all the fuss is about.
This year, we are having our own Thanksgiving. The turkey is in the freezer, waiting to go in tomorrow morning. We've baked a pecan pie and a pumpkin pie. Tomorrow we will make mashed potatoes, gravy, garlic beans and baked sweet potato.
But more importantly we have a day in which we can reflect on those things we are thankful for. We are thankful for our children and our families. Lizzy and Isaac bring so much joy to our lives, with their laughter, seriousness and mischief. We are thankful for the opportunities we have been given, and the support of our parents in our adventures. There is so much to be thankful for. I could go on and on.
Tomorrow, we will ask Isaac and Lizzy what are some of the things they are thankful for. I can picture the scene already. Lizzy will say "Mummy and Daddy, Isaac and Elizabeth and Cleo". Isaac will look around the room and say "the windows and the roof". Not to be outdone, Lizzy will then add "and the lights and the table".
Yes...we do have alot to be Thankful for.
These days I know alot about the history and traditions of Thanksgiving. I suppose it's what happens when a non-American comes across a traditional holiday and wonders what on earth all the fuss is about.
This year, we are having our own Thanksgiving. The turkey is in the freezer, waiting to go in tomorrow morning. We've baked a pecan pie and a pumpkin pie. Tomorrow we will make mashed potatoes, gravy, garlic beans and baked sweet potato.
But more importantly we have a day in which we can reflect on those things we are thankful for. We are thankful for our children and our families. Lizzy and Isaac bring so much joy to our lives, with their laughter, seriousness and mischief. We are thankful for the opportunities we have been given, and the support of our parents in our adventures. There is so much to be thankful for. I could go on and on.
Tomorrow, we will ask Isaac and Lizzy what are some of the things they are thankful for. I can picture the scene already. Lizzy will say "Mummy and Daddy, Isaac and Elizabeth and Cleo". Isaac will look around the room and say "the windows and the roof". Not to be outdone, Lizzy will then add "and the lights and the table".
Yes...we do have alot to be Thankful for.
Monday, November 20, 2006
The Question of Life
Each night, as part of our children's bedtime routine, we read to them from the bible. Lizzy has inherited Isaac's children's bible stories, while Isaac has moved onto a children's bible. It is apparently the same bible that Ben remembers having when he was a young boy.
The other day we were reading about Adam & Eve, and their leaving the Garden of Eden. At the end of the story, Isaac had a very serious look on his face. It was obvious that something big was going on in his mind. So I asked, "Do you want to ask me anything about what we just read". Without a pause he askes, "Why do we have to die when we grow old?" God had told Adam & Eve that part of the outcome of sinning was that they would die when they were old, and he wanted to know why.
I had this image of him thinking that mummy & daddy were old and maybe we might die of old age any moment now. I believe we managed to get through an answer to his satisfaction, and I am happy to report that he was not taumatised by it.
So each night now we are talking about what we have read. It's really great to see how his little mind works and absorbs everything he hears, but sometimes those big questions of life are hard to answer. There is nothing like the innocent question of a 4 year old to make you look at some of those questions that we sometimes like to tuck away in the furthurest parts of our minds.
The other day we were reading about Adam & Eve, and their leaving the Garden of Eden. At the end of the story, Isaac had a very serious look on his face. It was obvious that something big was going on in his mind. So I asked, "Do you want to ask me anything about what we just read". Without a pause he askes, "Why do we have to die when we grow old?" God had told Adam & Eve that part of the outcome of sinning was that they would die when they were old, and he wanted to know why.
I had this image of him thinking that mummy & daddy were old and maybe we might die of old age any moment now. I believe we managed to get through an answer to his satisfaction, and I am happy to report that he was not taumatised by it.
So each night now we are talking about what we have read. It's really great to see how his little mind works and absorbs everything he hears, but sometimes those big questions of life are hard to answer. There is nothing like the innocent question of a 4 year old to make you look at some of those questions that we sometimes like to tuck away in the furthurest parts of our minds.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Two different children
The other weekend, Mum & I went to Vancouver BC for a Women of Faith conference. (It was awesome by the way, and I would highly recommend it to anyone, but that's another post)
Isaac & Lizzy stayed at home with Ben & dad. On the Saturday we hired a babysitter named Katie, so that Ben could work on his book. Their response to the baby sitter just goes to show how very different our children are.
When Ben came home from work on Saturday, Lizzy came running out to say hello and told daddy all about Katie. When it was time for her to leave, Lizzy cried and wanted Katie to stay.
Isaac on the other hand, was on the opposite end of the emotional scale. "Daddy, can you tell the person who is not you, or Mummy, or grandad, that Lizzy does not like milk".
Isaac & Lizzy stayed at home with Ben & dad. On the Saturday we hired a babysitter named Katie, so that Ben could work on his book. Their response to the baby sitter just goes to show how very different our children are.
When Ben came home from work on Saturday, Lizzy came running out to say hello and told daddy all about Katie. When it was time for her to leave, Lizzy cried and wanted Katie to stay.
Isaac on the other hand, was on the opposite end of the emotional scale. "Daddy, can you tell the person who is not you, or Mummy, or grandad, that Lizzy does not like milk".
Monday, November 13, 2006
Honesty
Children are very honest. Sometimes too honest. Sometimes it's uncomfortable.
Isaac is just starting to notice people around him. On one hand we are thrilled, on the other hand we now are having to deal with the issue of why people are different.
My first taste of this was at the doctors the other week. Isaac had just had his ears checked, and we walked back into the waiting area. There waiting was a Islamic lady, with the full dress covering her hair and face. Isaac stopped abruptly, pointed and said "Look mummy." I smiled at her and apologised, then as we walk away start explaining that people dress differently, but everyone deserves respect and we should not point as it's rude.
Well - that talk lasted all of a week.
Today we were at the shops. Mum was walking behind with Isaac when 3 punk teenagers walk past us. Although I did not hear it, mum tells me that Isaac stopped, laughed and said "They look funny". Somedays a speech delay comes in handy - and perhaps they didn't understand what was being said. One can only hope - but here comes that talk again.
Isaac is just starting to notice people around him. On one hand we are thrilled, on the other hand we now are having to deal with the issue of why people are different.
My first taste of this was at the doctors the other week. Isaac had just had his ears checked, and we walked back into the waiting area. There waiting was a Islamic lady, with the full dress covering her hair and face. Isaac stopped abruptly, pointed and said "Look mummy." I smiled at her and apologised, then as we walk away start explaining that people dress differently, but everyone deserves respect and we should not point as it's rude.
Well - that talk lasted all of a week.
Today we were at the shops. Mum was walking behind with Isaac when 3 punk teenagers walk past us. Although I did not hear it, mum tells me that Isaac stopped, laughed and said "They look funny". Somedays a speech delay comes in handy - and perhaps they didn't understand what was being said. One can only hope - but here comes that talk again.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Timeout
It was a difficult day for Lizzy today. At almost 3, emotions seem to be overwhelming and when she is not happy, everybody knows.
Today was one of those days.
The day ended with the tantrum from hell in the middle of the shops. If you are a parent you may know the kind - the "you fear that another shopper will call the police about an attempted child abduction because obviously this child is fighting the adult so hard that it could not possibly a parent" kind of tantrum.
On the surface - the tantrum happened because mummy said that it was time to go home and no we could not buy the food on the display.
However, the real reason behind the tantrum became obvious when we arrived home. The entire trip was filled with crying and "no no mummy go back". I had given the ultimatum that if the screaming had not ended by the time we got home, then we would need to have a calm down time in her bedroom. After 2 minutes I entered the room and said "if you're ready you can come out and play now". A sad little face looked at me, and she shook her head.
A few minutes later I entered her room again to ask if she wanted to come out. But there on the rocking chair was a sweet little angel, fast asleep with the occassional sob in her breathing.
Ahhh...timeout had led to the sweet relief of sleep. Although it was 2 hours earlier than normal, bedtime had come. We may have an early morning tomorrow, but for today timeout achieved it's purpose.
Today was one of those days.
The day ended with the tantrum from hell in the middle of the shops. If you are a parent you may know the kind - the "you fear that another shopper will call the police about an attempted child abduction because obviously this child is fighting the adult so hard that it could not possibly a parent" kind of tantrum.
On the surface - the tantrum happened because mummy said that it was time to go home and no we could not buy the food on the display.
However, the real reason behind the tantrum became obvious when we arrived home. The entire trip was filled with crying and "no no mummy go back". I had given the ultimatum that if the screaming had not ended by the time we got home, then we would need to have a calm down time in her bedroom. After 2 minutes I entered the room and said "if you're ready you can come out and play now". A sad little face looked at me, and she shook her head.
A few minutes later I entered her room again to ask if she wanted to come out. But there on the rocking chair was a sweet little angel, fast asleep with the occassional sob in her breathing.
Ahhh...timeout had led to the sweet relief of sleep. Although it was 2 hours earlier than normal, bedtime had come. We may have an early morning tomorrow, but for today timeout achieved it's purpose.
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