John

This was a weekend of heavy hearts. My step Dad John died. We cried. Then we laughed. What wonderful memories. The one that stands out for me is at my old house on Clawson. I was standing on the stairs about to get ready for work (mcD's) when John asked me about marrying Mom. He was funny and I was embarrassed..but it is a great memory for me. Another wonderful memory was dancing with him to the song Unforgettable sung by Natalie and Nat King Cole at my wedding.

John is unforgettable.

Halloween Fun

Last night was Halloween and the 3rd time the kids were able to dress up this year. They had a blast. Thomas was so excited to go to all the houses for candy, once he figured it out there was no stopping him. We made our way over to the Community Center too. They had a magician, cider, donuts and the kids were all in the costume contest. This year Hannah took third place in her age group so she will receive a prize at the meeting on Tuesday. She was so excited. We told her it was her turn because last year Thomas and Allison placed and she didn't. Her grin was from ear to ear. She was pretty darn cute as Hermione from Harry Potter. I was surprised the other kids didn't place, in comparison to some store bought...and not very imaginative costumes. But, there is always next year! After the girls and Kevin had a bit of a fright in the haunted house we made our way to visit Uncle Ed's Mom and Dad. They spoil the kids every year with many treats and lots of love. We were a little late this year but they waited for us and they even made Kevin and I some yummy treats (egg rolls, mmmm). After that we made our way down the street to Grandma and Grandpa J's. We were pretty late and they were reading in bed, but the kids were so excited by the great treats from them. They were also glad to climb all over grandpa! I think Hannah needed to get some chocolate energy out! She makes me tired just watching her. Allie on the other hand had so much fun she almost fell asleep in Daddy's lap! What a fun family night. We sure are lucky.

God Moment

I had a God Moment today. I think I will start calling them that. I know that someone great must be looking out for me.

Last week after some discussion with Kevin we decided to pull up the boot straps and cut out the not needed spending. Things are tough. We are really trying to weed out the wants to afford the needs. One of the things I thought to cut was Thomas' parent-tot class. It made me sad, but we have been attending a free library thing at the Clawson library and I thought maybe I could find something similar in RO. I called the principal and left a msg. I told her I knew I was obligated through the rest of this semester but that money was really tight and I didn't think we could continue next semester. I also said I knew there was a waiting list for the class so I wanted to give her advance notice.

Today she called me into the office. I have never been called to the principals office. YIKES! hehe. I was a little nervous. It's one thing to tell her on a msg about my troubles it's another to discuss them in person. It could not have gone better. She said Thomas is such a role model that they want to keep him. She said pay what I can and if I can't, I can't. She also said I have been such a great parent helper over the years that she really was happy to help out. I could have cried right then. I in fact did once I got home. I thanked her tremendously and told her what a great relief it was.

My smart boy, and these great friends! I am so grateful and lucky.

Worry Wort

I have many worries that sometimes keep me awake at night. But I am trying to stay focused on the great, wonderful, cozy, happy things in my life. In the spirit of keeping up-beat here are a few more things to be grateful for:

1. Sunny warm days in October

2. Story Time at the library with T

3. Looking forward to Halloween with the kids (Hermione, A Good Witch, Spider)

4. Nap time ;)

5. A good book

6. T staying dry all night (when I forgot a diaper)!