GETTING A TASTE OF BEING ALONE.

I have been thinking so much of my mom lately simply because today marks the anniversary of Joe's passing.  Fall was in full swing back when she came to stay with me for a few weeks after he passed away, and because it rained so much today I couldn't help but to constantly have her on my mind. 

What can I say...

I miss my mom. 

Even though we talk on the phone twice a month it doesn't seem like enough, and it shouldn't be that way. I love my mom, and will always make time for her no matter what. I wanted to share a bit of how I've been feeling lately since Noah started school, and how it feels for all my kids to be in school now. 

To go along with this post I added some pictures back when we lived in Texas. My mother lived in Corpus Christi, and we lived in San Antonio. At that time in my life she always managed to stay connected. She was always the one making time for me, and because we were going to be moving back to Utah once Lexie was born she wanted to spend as much time with us as possible. I'm grateful that we captured these moments with each other, and memories with Sierra while she was little.  

Now for the short story...

The other morning I told Jon how I'm slooooooowwwwwly starting to feel how my mom felt once we were all gone, and how I'm beginning to feel how my mom felt once we all left the house. No more babies to raise, and being alone in a house for a few hours. Not technically, because Noah is still home with me until noon.  He likes entertaining himself with legos, drawing pad, and his train tracks. Of course I'm there for him on the sidelines front, hook, and center when it comes to growing up. I do however, have a hard time giving him his own space, but I'm getting better at that. I've gotten better at supporting him for being so independent since he began school this year. I'm just so lucky that he still likes to cuddle with me in the evenings before bed!

The three hours I have to myself seem to go by way too fast especially when i have to clean up after breakfast, have laundry to do, write in my journal, and just random things such as a friend calling to help take her on an errand. And endless sweeping!! I have ceiling fans in every room that run 24/7,  and because those fans blow dust I'm constantly sweeping throughout the whole house. Guess it's time to clean the fans!! I have hardwood floors throughout the house, except for a magic carpet in the living room, but nonetheless it gets done, and I just sweep, sweep, sweep. I"ll be so happy when I retire those fans once fall is in full swing. So being a stay at home mom doesn't require watching soaps, and eating hostess cupcakes all day. Then again...I"m so not into novellas!

A friend of mine has also asked me the other day if I could go back to work, and find a job. I was like, "who in the heck is going to hire me for three hours?" Not even three hours! More like two because I leave a bit early to put Noah on the bus, and have to make sure I'm at home when the kids get off the bus. Plus I have no motivation whatsoever to actually work in an environment where I probably won't be content working because all I'll be thinking about is my kids, and making sure their needs come before my own. Maybe one day I'll go back to work, or even school but in my opinion one must have the desire to go, and I don't have that drive at this time. Maybe later.

Anyway...

While we lived in North Carolina I was guilty of not seeing my mom as much as I should when she moved to be closer to us. I hated using the excuse of "the kids kept me busy", and no matter if we were 40 minutes away  I just didn't make too much time to see her in the two years we lived there. Here my mom gives up everything, and I mean everything (except her car) so she can live closer to us, and I hardly ever saw her. We did have lunch a few times, and the girls had a couple of sleepovers, but yet I felt as if that wasn't enough. And it want enough! There would be times when I would come over unannounced, and could see her from a distance through the window watching television looking a bit lonely. It was as if she had that look on her face of wondering why she moved here. 

My mom had hobbies such as gardening, and sewing and at times I felt bad because she wasn't doing that aa much once she moved to Notth Carolina. I hated knowing she was at home alone all day while Joe was at work, and that I didn't make more of an effort to come over. On the days that I brought the kids over her countenance changed. She'd cook, we talked, would go for a  drive, go window shopping. She was happy when she wasn't alone. 

There are days when I wish I could turn back time, and have a do-over with my mom. I think most of us daughters want that chance again to right all the wrongs we did in our younger years. Then again...I'm not sure if I'd be the daughter I am today had I not had that distant relationship, and experiences with my mama.  

Fast forward to 2015. 

Even though we are 1770 miles apart we constantly keep in touch. I wish she would have stayed with us when Joe passed away, but the transition was just too hard on her. I  still have hope that she will put her stubbornness aside and come live with us, but she says that as long as she can take care of herself she will do her best to manage on her own.  She has a few friends who keep her days fulfilled with activity. She tells me there's no need for me to worry about her. So far she's in a position where she can survive on her own on the limited income that she has. She truly is a survivor in my eyes, and after all that is said and done I know that she can hold her own. She truly is a brave woman, and I am proud to call her mom. 

One thing for sure, is that I hope to be just as brave as her once my nest is completely empty. I only hope that my future posterity won't live too far away! 
*All pictures were taken back in the fall of 1999. I can't believe how young we all looked! 

THE VICTORIAN GARDENS IN CENTRAL PARK.

We couldn't let the summer go by without venturing out to a carnival for the kids to ride. It's like a rite of passage for children to go to a carnival.  So over labor day weekend we decided to go to the amusement park in Central Park. This was our first time going inside and actually riding the rides. Normally when we go to the park we always walk right past it, and hang out at the sheep meadow to relax while the kids run around. I find that as the kids hit four or five years of age that they tend to find the rides more enjoyable. I was really hoping that Fete Paradiso would come to Governors Island again this  year, but they didn't. The Victorian Gardens in central park passed the test, and it's truly a fun little park. The kids absolutely loved it including  Lexie!! She said she would help me with the kids, but ended up getting on a few rides herself. She has a deep love for roller coasters, and anything that goes sky high at any kind of amusement park. Our times spent at Coney Island were some of her most memorable moments, and so when we go to any kind of carnival, or amusement park her eyes light up like a little child!   

I only captured a few moments of the kids on the rides. I was too busy watching the kids especially Noah giggling and having a grand time on the rides. He did get on an airplane ride with papa, and even though Jon's legs were a tad bit too long he still managed to enjoy the ride! 

They even had the same pose when they got off the plane..

Lexie and I got on a couple of rides with the kids, but it was mostly Noah and Chelsea having the grand adventure of riding all the rides. 

^^^ excuse the blurriness of this photo. They kept turning that thing round and round! It was so hard to capture a clear shot! ^^^

^^^ Noah was so excited when he got more tickets to play a few games. ^^^

^^^ He even won this little duck for scoring 20 points. Then again...every one is a winner! ^^^

^^^ Noah and I even got to play this game where you get to hit a few animals heads! It was so fun playing against my little man! ^^^ 

 ^^^ The rockin tug was one of Noah's favorite. It rocked back and forth, and also turned around and around! It was so much fun! I also love my crew!! ^^^

We could have been here all day, and we actually were until night fell. It was such a beautiful day, and everyone was so nice to our kids. We then off went our merry way to enjoy the rest of our holiday. One thing for sure is that we will definitely come back and bring the kids again! 

TO LEXIE IN YOUR SOPHOMORE YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL.

Today Lexie begins her sophomore year of high school, and I couldn't be more pleased with who she is becoming. She truly is a light in my world, and we are so excited to see what this year holds for her! I have written this letter for her in hopes that she will fall back on whenever she's having to make hard decisions. Even though she is a great kid she is not exempt from all the poison that is lingering out in the world to damage our youth in all the good they are striving to do. Although this post was written three years ago I revamped it a bit specifically for her. I also write it for you too. For any youth out there who may have struggles, or for those of you who just need a reminder. I know I do! So this is for my daughter, and all the kids out there who are returning back to school today. 

But first I want to implement this scripture...

"Stand ye in holy places

and be not moved, 

until the day of the Lord come;

for behold it cometh quickly, 

saith the Lord." 

Doctrine & Covenants 87:8

Dear Lexie, 

If we understand the laws and commandments of the Lord, read our scriptures, and strive to do what is right in living the life of a christian, life won't be as hard, and there will be no need to get overwhelmed. Sure our lives get busy, and when we are at our lowest, that's when we want to give up. There are many times when I have felt that way in my life especially in my teens, but when I am reminded of the time I entered an unfamiliar church, and became a member life was better for me. And now that I am older and married with kids, I know that the Lord has kept me on His side in helping me to understand the blessings that come from being obedient in living the life, and work of the Lord. In the end I know it will all be have been for my own good, but most of all worth it. Plus, I am in love with all of the teachings that the gospel teaches everyone. 

As you know we continue to live in a harsh world, and it seems like the youth of every generation is being targeted with all kinds of temptation. One thing that you have as a reminder is written in the "For the strength of youth" pamphlet. That is the key to happiness throughout your high school career,  and knowing that that little book is out there puts me at ease in hopes that you will strive your best to keep your standards high. 

Even though your 15 the months will fly, and before you know you will be 16 which means you'll be allowed to go on actual dates. Yikes! Group dates mind you. Time goes by so fast, and because of time I wanted to take this opportunity to remind you of why I wrote this three years ago, and why it's beneficial in your life today.

On music...

When it comes to listening to music choose the right kind. Please make sure that it is conducive to the spirit. If there are curse words in the lyrics or any sexual innuendos that you find offensive I highly advise you to skip to the next song. If you are at a school dance, and you hear that kind of music go to the bathroom, try super hard to block it out of your mind, or just find the nearest exit and leave. I don't care if it has a good beat to it, it's still not inviting a good spirit. Listening to that type of music can lead you into temptation, and dark territories that you just don't want to experience. Believe me i know. I grew up listening to the best music that had bad language, but because I wasn't active in any church I didn't know any better. Now I do, and so do you. So let's continue to listen to classical music, and 21 pilots. Also...no grinding train! Just had to add that on here! 

On bad language...

I know y'all cringe when people curse especially at school. Whether it's the D word, or the other word they use for poop, or the worst word of all which rhymes with suck. Always use clean language. I have used bad language in my lifetime, and never thought how awful it sounded until I heard someone else use it! I'm not perfect, and I know that I've slipped up from time to time because let's face it...I'm not perfect. So please don't follow my example. Try your very best to not be my inner voice at times of stress. I know that I have come a long way with my anger, and I am proud of that, and also pleased that you have never uttered such words so keep it up, and so will I! 

On dating...

There is a special someone out there waiting to sweep you off your feet. Take the time in searching for your prince when the time is right (preferably when you're in college), and most of all make sure it is someone that will take you to the temple. Make sure he holds the same standards as you, and has the same goals. Never lower your standards for anyone, and I mean anyone. Don't ever let a boy make you feel guilty for how you live your life. Don't ever be embarrassed in what, and who you stand for. Be selective when it comes to going on dates. Think with your head, and not your heart. There is no need to be exclusive with a boy throughout your teen years. Trust me...having a boyfriend in high school can become a headache. I know this from too much personal experience! Always go on group dates where you can. Laugh, and talk with everyone while on a date. The teen years are precious, and those years are the most crucial years of your life in finding out who you are. Focus on your schoolwork, but most of all just have clean fun! Enjoy this time in your young life! 

On serving...

Serving is something that I love to do especially when I am at my ultimate lowest. When my days are bleak with worry, or stress I will find a way to reach out to someone in need. Whether it's writing a letter, reading my scriptures, or picking up the phone to call someone, or even serving you. I see that attribute in you Lexie, and I am very pleased. Keep that up, and always find ways, but mostly the time to serve. Servin willingly and your life will be blessed. I guarantee that it will bring much happiness to your life. 

I love you very much, and pray for you daily. Be the example of living a christian life to your friends, and most of all your siblings. They look up to you just as you looked up to Sierra. Keep your standards high, and no matter how tough life gets always, always stand in holy places. 

And have a wonderful 2015-2016 school year! 

Peace and love, 

Mom

HAPPY LABOR DAY!

Living in our neck of the woods there is so much to do in honor of Labor Day weekend. We truly are one lucky folk to live in the tristate area where we are surrounded by so many beaches! The jersey shore truly is a blessing! 

Going to the beach this past weekend was such a spontaneous trip, but being that it was the "unofficial" last weekend of summer we decided to go. The kids did so well for their first week of school, and what better way to "officially" end their summer by going to the beach one more time. With Jon working, and Lexie burning the 'daylight oil' with getting her summer homework done it was just the three of us.

It was windy and the water was a bit colder than usual, but that didn't stop the kids from going, and jumping in. The water was choppy which made for some awesome waves. They didn't stay in too long and mostly played on the beach. I myself love getting in the water, but as soon as my feet touched it I was like, "I'm not getting in with you guys. I'm a fun mom, but not cool enough to get in the water and freeze! Naaa, I'll just stand back, and capture some shots of y'all while y'all brave the cold waves!" 

^^^ It was so nice seeing them splashing in the water, and playing in the sand without a care in the world. Ahhh...to be a kid again! ^^^

^^^ It's become a routine that after we've played in the water, and had a little fun on the sand to go to the 'pirate ship park' and play. This is always per Noah's request. They love this little playground, and it's just too perfect for these kids! ^^^

^^^ Kids get hungry after hard playing at the beach. Am i right? So what better way to end the day with having some fried oreos. A friend of mine on Facebook asked what they were. It's a carnival favorite, and if you want to know more about them, or make them you can find a recipe here. ^^^

Noah also wanted an ice cream cone which began to melt in his little hand cause he couldn't eat it fast enough so I had to get a cup to put it in. Chelsea tried to help him out by helping him eat it, but to no avail. Those fried ores are too filling! Noah wanted to save the paper that was wrapped around the cone too. Apparently he's become obsessed with stars and stripes especially after seeing Rocky, and loves the american boxers he wears while fighting. Noah has requested a pair...as well as some boxing gloves. Oh boy!

This is a screenshot from my snapchat which is why it looks a bit blurrrrrry. If you're reading this post my snapchat of this day is long gone, but if you're on shapchat, and ever want to check out our "snapchat life" you can view it here: r_jorgensen. Anyway...we walked along the boardwalk after eating all that amazing junk food because hello...we need to let all that junk settle! I'm also very impressed that the kids didn't get a tummy ache after eating all that amazing junk! Our stomachs have become immune! 

And how about these pictures the kids took with their mama...hee hee me! 

Noah and Chelsea did a great job in capturing our smiling faces! Especially the one Noah took. His shot wasn't blurry at all! Very impressive for a five year old! Future photographer perhaps??? 

...and this picture of this beauty of mine who is almost 11!! Future model perhaps?? 

You can tell that we just love the beach, and coming here makes me forget about all the worries of the world. It was a nice start to our labor day weekend, and a great ending for these kiddos summer. 

Hope y'all have a wonderful week! 

TENNIS SUMMER SCRIMMAGES.

The weather couldn't have been more perfect last week. We had nothing but sunshine with zero percent humidity which made it perfect for us to sit comfortably without sweating profusely to watch Lexie play tennis. 

Last week she had two scrimmages and played exceptionally well. Jon was lucky enough to have had two days off to watch her play. It is always so nice for him to get days off during the week so he can sit with us and watch her play. It's so hard nowadays for parents to sit in on their kids games especially when they work during the day, but as luck would have it his days off fell on the same day as her scrimmages! Lucky duck! We all cheered her on as she was playing doubles. Noah and Chelsea sat on the bench like two little adults cheering her on as well. At times they would fight over the balls that were being thrown over the fence, but luckily there were enough balls for the both of them to keep, and then return after the game was over. It's so nice to see them interested in watching their older sister play. Gives me a lot of hope that they will both stick to playing tennis while their young. 

I love this time of year where we can sit in and go to Lexie's games. She has the heart and has a strong love for the game just as her sister did. I still remember the first time Sierra took her on the court to practice, and am so grateful she has developed a love for the game. She is passionate and worked hard practicing all summer so she can make the team which she did. I'm so proud of her, and hope that she'll have an amazing season, and continue to learn from her coaches all about the game and to win. 

Now how about that US Open? Any one been watching the games? That Federer is awesome, and we are still determined to go to Arthur Ashe stadium to attend a game, but for now I will settle watching my daughter play! 

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL TWENTY FIFTEEN.

Can I just tell you what an emotional mess I was the other day. I mean I really thought I had it together with this "letting my kids go" "i'm okay with them growing up" stuff. I mean I've had four kids right? I've been around the block three times, and I have sent three girls to preschool including daycare and even half day kindergarten in the past so why Noah? Why was I such a nervous wreck with this one when he got on the bus, and why did I cry so many tears? Lexie's response, "because he's your only boy mom, he's the baby." And you know what...she was right on point! 

I still can't fathom being alone during the day, and I know that may sound wimpy and that's probably a weakness for me when it comes to my children, but I absolutely love my kids. I am not one of those mothers who just wish my kids away, and say stuff like, "I cannot wait for them to get out of the house." If anything I want them to live with me for always. I personally wouldn't mind if they were all living with me, because that's how much I love them. I could never grow weary of their presence or attitude. That's part of my motherhood, and I am just so grateful for that feeling because I could tell that my mother had similar feelings once it was our turn to leave the nest. In spite of all the downs I had with my mother when I was young I could tell that she didn't want us to leave her as we got older. I know this because she would always cry when we would leave the house after visiting her. She would even get a little upset when we moved out of the house at such a young age, but for me I am going to try hard to not do that with my kids. I found that it was a little hard to let go of Sierra when she left for Utah, but it's all good now, and I'm happy that she's enjoying life out west. 

I know eventually it'll get easier as the years go by. I know this! I know that all kids grow up, and that life moves on. I know that with time, things will get easier. One thing for sure is that I'm so, so glad that Lexie is here with me all week so that I can adjust to Noah being gone. I firmly believe there's a reason why Noah and Chelsea started school a week earlier than Lexie this year. The good man upstairs knew that I was going to need some solace from someone once Noah left for school, and that someone was my 15 year old daughter. An old soul she is. 

One thing for sure is that I didn't think I was going to cry at the drop of a hat once the bus took off! One thing that put me at ease when those doors opened was that I knew the bus driver. He goes to my church, but that still didn't make things any better. When I saw Noah's little hand pressing up against the window as the bus drove off I lost it! I cried so much to the point where I was inhaling, and hiccuping. I honestly don't know what I would've done had I not had somebody by my side at that given moment. I'm sure I probably would've stood there for a good five minutes then slowly walking home and sitting on the couch moping, and crying for at least an hour. Luckily I'm built to resolving my own issues, and handling hard things without bombarding someone with my sadness. I know this because I've had good cries like that before, and living for 43 years in this life believe me...I've had many issues! 

It was one of those moments where all you need is a good cry so you put in one of those sappy movies like "The Fault of Our Stars" to clear the sadness. I'm also lucky to have this little blog in the corner of the net to write my heart out about the things that I find hard in this life, and faith in my heart knowing that in the end everything will be okay. 

One thing that did help me besides having Lexie by my side that day was hearing words from a random neighbor whom I've seen driving up and down our street before, but have never really talked to him. 

As the bus was driving off he was in the car waiting to cross, and he stopped to say something to me. He looked like someone's sweet grandpa, and his words sure brought me a lot of support. He said to me, "was that your baby getting on that bus?" I said, "yes, it was." He said, "I can tell by the look on your face that he's your baby." Just know that he'll be fine, and that he'll have a good year." I said thank you, and he drove away. After hearing his words of comfort I knew that Noah was going to be ok, and then my tears subsided.

Those three hours of school went by pretty quick probably because Lexie was with me. We walked to the bus stop and waited for the bus to arrive. As the bus drove closer to the curb I was standing at I was relieved to see them  through the window sitting together. Apparently they are "bus buddies" and I am very happy that they both get to sit with one another after school until the buses come. Noah looked a little tired when he got off the bus. I snap chatted this whole experience, and if it's still on there you have about 24 hours to view it at r_jorgensen before it gets completely deleted. 

PM kindergarten is something that I'm going to have to get used to because like I said, I have never experienced having a kid attending PMK so this is going to be very interesting.  I know eventually I'll get used to it , and slowly build a creative routine for our morning on what to do before he leaves for school, but for now I'll learn as I go, and do.

This morning was kind of a long one. After having cold cereal for breakfast we painted for a bit, and even though Lexie told me to eliminate technology all together I caved in, and had him watch pbs kids because, peg + cat is his favorite. He played with his legos for a bit afterwards, and then we took him to the park. It has been hot and muggy for the past few days, and because I didn't want to wear him out before school we only endured about 25 minutes of mugginess. We also decided to add a bit of tennis before school if he's up to it. 

I've decided that we're just going to lay it cool in the house until cooler temperatures arrive. Then we can do all the fun stuff like riding on the bike trail, but for any of you moms who have a five year old attending half day PMK, and have any tips on what you do with your child please share!

I have a very strong feeling that this year will fly just as the rest of them have, but I'm not counting the days. I just want to focus on the positivity in hopes that our kids have a fun, and educational school year that way future school years for Noah will become easier and easier....especially for me! 

Let's just hope I don't turn out like Jane Fonda in Monster-in-Law when his time comes to get married! Yikes! 

POLAROIDS THEN & NOW.

I will always remember the day my mom had her hand glued to her polaroid camera. It seemed like she always enjoyed taking pictures, and when she did it made her super happy. I miss those days, and sometimes I feel as if she didn't take enough, but the time spent with her without the camera were awesome too! Still...there's something about taking pictures that relieves all kinds of stress. At least it does for me. That's probably why I take so many, and looking back at these photos I remember seeing it in my mother.

She was always excited for the first day of school to start (second polaroid.) I vividly remember the new dresses she bought us, and how she kept telling us to stand still, fold our arms, and smile pretty. I also remember the first time when we got our first bike (third polaroid.) Technically it was for my sister, but after a while was passed on down to me. My mom knew how much I liked her bike so she obviously took a polaroid of me with it. 

Christmases were very rare in our home, and I honestly only remember two, but I will always remember the one when she took a polaroid of us with the little christmas tree standing on a tv tray (fourth polaroid.) She really made that Christmas special, and I will always treasure that moment. I now know why she would always take pictures of us, because I have been doing the same thing with my children for years now!

Times have changed since polaroid cameras, and even though I feel as if iPhones have really raised the bar with all the technology the've put into it with different apps and filters to make your pictures look nicer, there's nothing better than being nostalgic when taking pictures with a polaroid camera, an old school Nikon with film that you can develop, or in my case an instax camera. 

I have really grown to love my fuji instax camera. We gifted this one to Sierra for her birthday this year, and when she opened up the package she squealed with delight. She's always wanted one, just as I wanted one, and just as my mother had one, and now we all have one! 

When I first got my camera I wanted to try it out so one Sunday before church I gathered the kiddos, and we snapped all kinds of pics. They've never seen anything like it, and thought it was pretty cool. Lexie and Chelsea both love these cameras, and it  looks like this is one thing that's going to be on their christmas list this year. 

Nothing can ever replace tangible photos, and I really enjoy using my instant camera. The kids, and I have been going to town, literally, and having fun with it taking all kinds of pictures. I had to remind them that these photos are ones that cannot be "deleted" so if they come out with their eyes closed, looking possessed, or just plain weird to suck it up, and just treasure them. 

We have taken it to the beach, the playground, and Lexie even took it to EFY this summer. The people in her company thought that the instax camera was pretty cool. I love my kids, and will continue to take advantage of capturing moments, and making memories with them. That way they can look back at these photos when I'm super old and gray, and remember how much I loved taking pictures of them.  

Just as my mom did with me. These moments are priceless, and I am so grateful that my mother took the time out of her day when we were small children to capture these memories of me and my sister. 

ON GROWING UP, & FINDING JOY WHEN SCHOOL RESUMES.

As August is coming to an end I think about the days I spent with Noah. When it was just me and him. All day. I've been one lucky mama to have spent five years alone with him. Noah is definitely my last child, and in all honesty it's a little heartbreaking. I love my children. I loved them when they were little, and I love them even more as they grow older, but boy will I miss these days of just hanging with my little guy exploring the universe together. 

Time is such a thief, and I know that this year is going to fly. I'm going to try my best to slow down this school year, and find joy in all the grades that my children are in. Especially with it being Noah's kindergarten year. I want to hang on to those precious moments before they fleet away. I want him to be able to remember the things he will be taught, and to know that I was there in his classroom helping. I want him to know that i care about his education even if he's just coloring pictures of the alphabet. I want him to know that I was there every step of the way. I want him to know that I'm not one of those moms who was counting the days for school to start so that I can  have time to myself and have all the kids out of the house, but to know that I'm excited for him, and his sisters to go to school because of knowledge in what they'll be learning. I want him to know how excited I'll be to share my mornings with him before school.

School resumes next Tuesday for Noah and Chelsea, and this is the first year of having one of my kids attending PM kindergarten. At first I was a tad bit disappointed because I would have loved for him to walk to the bus with Chelsea, but after thinking about it I actually don't mind, and don't feel the need to call the school to make a change. I'm a stay at home mom which means more flexibility for me than those moms who have to rush kids to school because they have to work in the morning. So I am looking forward to spending my mornings with him like we have been for the past five past years except that I'll be sending him off to school at noon which means we'll have four hours to make pancakes together, go for a walk, and just talk to him about anything and everything. I'm all for it, and am excited not only for the time I'll have with him in the morning, but for him to go to school! 

It makes me feel good knowing that he'll be coming home at the same time & on the same bus as Chelsea. Even though they bicker she is very protective of him. I see it in her eyes. Especially when I scold him after he's done something naughty (which is very rare) I know that she will protect him from any bullies or mean kids. Unfortunately she experienced that last year, and luckily it only happened once. I'm glad she had the courage to open her mouth to tell me and her teacher about that issue. So I know that she will be there for her brother at least for one year to guide and protect while they attend the same school. 

Next year he'll have to fend for himself'! With three older sisters and a mom like me I'm sure he'll have no problem. Although it's bittersweet, I'm trying to find the sweet in the bitter part of realizing that he's growing up too fast. His words, and attitude are maturing. I do look forward to those moments because it's a sign that he's changing, and growing up to be the best boy he can be. 

THE FIRST TIME WE MET LUCY THE ELEPHANT.

I will always remember the first time we ventured out to visit the historic Lucy in the fall of 2008. People weren't kidding when they said she was at least 60 feet tall! When my friend Maggie told me about her especially after sending me a postcard of "lucy the elephant" before moving up here I just had to see her for myself. The fact that she rests on Margate beach was a plus in my book. She was the perfect looking elephant, set on one of the nicest beaches on the jersey shore! 

It was late fall when we first set eyes on Lucy, and it was perfect because there were no tourists, and we practically had the beach all to ourselves. We did drive around Atlantic City, but in all honesty I was not impressed. Sorry, but Las Vegas takes the cake when it comes to blitz, and glamour. Not that I'm into all that, but I do love window shopping. Nonetheless we still drove around the city before stopping by to see Lucy, and she was quite a looker! 

I can't even begin to tell you how excited the girls were when we first moved up here. The first thing they said was, "we don't have to drive three hours to go to the beach anymore!" Besides jumping in the waves getting wet, and building sandcastles, the girls favorite part is digging up seashells. Which was all they did on this day being that it was 55 degrees! I think I really spoiled them by all the beach trips we took when we lived in North Carolina as well as the summer vacations we took in Seaside while living outwest. One thing for sure is that these girls love venturing out to the ocean whether it's summertime, fall or winter! 

I swear it seems as if this picture was taken yesterday. I look at it as if they are still middle school  and elementary age. Can you believe seven years have gone by since these photos were taken. Seven years! Where has the time gone! It's kind of hard to believe that the little one on the right will be in fifth grade this year, the one on the left will be a sophomore in high school, and the precious one in the middle is 20 years old, and will soon be serving an LDS church mission!! 

Time most certainly flies when you're having fun. I love my girls, and am so proud of who they are, and what they're becoming. It has also been such a blessing to add a little boy in the mix who obviously wasn't born when these photos were taken, but to know that these girls will set a good example for him puts me at ease, and I just love them all so dang much!! 

Sure is fun to hang on to these precious moments, as well as this moment when we brought Noah to see Lucy in 2011!