Summer fun a little early

It's a busy time for everyone, and my gang is no exception. Jon David's first baseball game was this week. It was the first time to have daddy as head coach on a team, so mom felt a little more pressure. The team lost, but it was fought hard and SOOOOO close. Ali's preschool program is this evening. She's so excited and had trouble sleeping because of it. I'll post pictures of her "luau" themed program. Caleb and dad are heading to the fish hatchery tonight after the program. This will be Caleb's first time to go, not to catch fish but snakes . . . yes, snakes. One might be surprised at how many snakes like to hang out at the ready-to-eat hatchery where there is a constant food supply. With a constant supply of food comes large snakes. I cringe to think of how large and angry some of those snakes will be. Some will be larger than my son . . . I'm glad to be staying home. Praying we can push through the next few weeks and get to the lazy days of summer. It's knocking on our door . . .

And the world goes 'round

I have had an inner-ear infection for over a week now. I think it's some better. However, I still find myself "spinning" frequently throughout the day. I am trying to avoid the meds for it because they make me so sleepy. When I find myself "falling", I try to convince my body that I am not falling or that the room is not spinning. It just thinks it is. This lesson has been coming up frequently the past few months . . . Jen, you're not hungry; you just think you are. You're not too tired to exercise; you just think you are. You're not in need of that dress; you just think you are. You're not so tired you can't read your Bible; you just think you are. Although my ear infection is a physical problem that I can't self-control away. My failure to keep perspective in other areas of my life is a mind problem that can be addressed with more self-control. Praying daily that God gives me more.

The principal's office

I knew it was inevitable that one of my children would visit the principal's office, and this was the week. I keep reminding myself that between the two boys that there has been almost six years of completed school before the first visit. So, why do I still have the sick feeling about it? Son (who will remain nameless to protect his identity) has had a great week. He's making great progress on his school work and has enjoyed a week of fun extra curricular activities. When son came to me in the parking area after school yesterday to celebrate an accomplishment, I was so proud and celebrated with him. Then, the principal calls son over. I had that MR (mom radar) going and could sense this wasn't a friendly good-bye from Mr. Teague. So, son comes back to tell me that he had to visit the office. He and I go over to talk to Mr. T. Upon further investigation, I discovered that it was a repeat problem with a boy in his class that truly pesters him. Nathan and I have both witnessed it and have often thought that son would eventually get in big trouble concerning this boy. I found myself in a spot. I'm standing in front of the principal who expects me to deal appropriately with the issue. Now what? I really don't blame son for lashing out. The boy is annoying on the best of days. The boy pushes and pesters until most anyone would last out. Good or bad, I explained to son that I didn't blame him for being irritated and frustrated by the classmate. I explained that I too get frustrated with the boy. I explained that I was disappointed (even if not surprised) by his response. I reminded him that Jesus was angry at times, but that he didn't sin in his anger. So, I asked son if he had sinned while angry. He agreed that he had. I also reminded him that his classmate is hungry for friendship and pesters son to get his attention. I looked to the principal for a response. He had dealt with both boys in his office and felt that the issue was handled. I prayed that Mr. T understood my perspective and was somewhat understanding of son's position. Bless him, Mr. T then tells son, "If you can learn to deal with these situations now, you'll be a better man than me when you are my age." Son will be a better person than his mom too . . . No one enjoys going to the principal's office . . .

The best way to travel with three kids?

I spend a little of each day thinking and planning for our trip over seas. It's becoming an obsession. Our travel guide, Pam Little, sends frequent updates that keep me on the edge of my seat. Today's email included details of our time in Sydney, Australia. I am so excited that I'd like to pack NOW. But, I am a little anxious too. Being a planner, I keep making and revising my lists. The "simple" task of packing for the children keeps me awake at night. We can take one, yes, that's means only ONE, suitcase per person that weighs no more than 44 pounds. We will be traveling for three months and in varying environments/climates. So, which shoes will provide the most comfort and versatility. The suggestion is to take one dress for three dress-up occasions. Which one? The kiddos will need "activities" along with their school work to keep them busy. Which ones will sustain their interests the longest? What hygiene items do I take and which ones can I get upon arrival? (I hear their shampoo is outrageously priced?) Which meds do I take? And so on . . . I can make myself sick with worry . . . So, I am praying DAILY that I will be flexible as we travel, that we'll be safe, and that we'll stay healthy. (Oh, and if possible, God, please let me remember everything on my list!) If any of you have traveled overseas with little ones and have suggestions for a smooth journey, send them my way! :)

Busyness

Yesterday was one of those crazy days that keep a mom hopping. We have a precious foster baby with us for the weekend. He's a great baby, but he is another schedule to consider on what was already a BuSy day. Caleb had his only swim meet of the spring semester. He has moved up to the next age level, and he swam three races-a full 50 m. instead of the usual 25 m. He did great and got two 2nd places and one 3rd. He was bummed he didn't get a blue ribbon. His mother thought he did great. Jon David had his first baseball scrimmage. It was a great learning experience for him and his coach (Nathan). It was the first time I was able to be at practice and enjoyed meeting the other families. I think we have a great BuSy, eight weeks ahead!

Spring Activities

This is my favorite time of year!

Daddy was Ali's #1 helper this year during the family hunt!

Jon David was the first to get all of his eggs this year!

Ali had cupcakes on her actual birthday! She's four!

Key Lime Cottage made these cookies for Ali's final fourth birthday celebration!

Ali is FOUR!

Ali turned four a couple of weeks ago. This dress was mine when I was her age, so I really wanted to have her photographed in it . . . my dearest friend, Tricia, did a great job capturing Ali's personality and sweet spirit.

Thanks so much to Traci for the new blog design. It truly captures life in the Mills' Home--lots of fun but not so cutsie the boys can't be proud! I look forward to documenting our daily fun, but I most wanted to keep track of the many adventures we'll have in Australia, New Zealand and Asia in the fall. I hope you guys will enjoy our journey with us!