Life as the Parent of One.

I had a taste of that this past month. Matthew contracted RSV so we had to stay back from our year-long planned trip to MN. It was a tough decision but Eric decided to take the other kids up to visit his parents…we had planned too long to disappoint them - and the Grandparents.

So it was just me and Matt.

I made my long list of all that intended to accomplish - and here I sit, three weeks later, with very little accomplished.

I learned that while I blame my children for my lack of accomplishments in the day - it is really I who am to blame. I learned that one does not suddenly become organized - one does not suddenly disavow laziness - the number of children might increase the mess, but messiness is really a state of mind.So while I loved all the time to bond with my hilarious 6 month old…I’m actually quite happy to have ALL my children under our little roof.

And while it’s cheesy - I really am grateful for the accountability they bring me.

Then again....how long is it until August?

And He's 5!

Happy Birthday Jack!


My dear little boy. One day you will look at me with those blue eyes and dimples and I can clearly hear you say “Mooommmmm” - as if that will stop me from being sappy about you.

You wanted a bowling party - and you got one! I hope you remember it as a fun day -

and I hope you one day realize how much we love you.


Little boys are treasures

Who are worth their weight in gold.

And charm everyone around them

From the time they’re minutes old.
They’re Mommy’s little darling,

They’re a special pal to Dad,

And they bring the very happiest days

A family’s ever had.

Birthday Parties

I now understand why my parents didn’t give us huge parties. One would think that due to having 5 children with birthdays within a month of each other was the issue. But since my three children have birth dates scattered throughout the year, this can not be my problem. So what is my problem?


I’m unorganized! I also procrastinate.


Shocker! Except to those who know me best.


So, here I am making computer invites to my sons’ 5th birthday party because I procrastinated and now it’s too late to order them.


He’s requested a bowling theme. It’s not like he came up with this yesterday. I’ve known since summer that this is what he wanted.


I’m scrambling now to put it all together. I promise you Jack - it will be fun! And you will remember that turning 5 is a big deal! And not just because it’s the date you must start wiping yourself. LOL!

And thanks Mom - I remember very special parties. My 10th and 16th come to mind. I don’t regret not having more, having few made them more special.
YES! That’s it. It’s not my lack of organization, my procrastination, my lazyness. It’s my desire to build gratefulness in my children. So glad I’ve finally been able to spiritualize my flaws to some degree and can not feel one tinge of guilt in not throwing my daughter an 8th birthday party!