Can I Have a Shake With That?

I was actually prepared to come here for a little pity party. As you know, last week was a rough week. This week doesn't promise to be much better. My friends who are hurting for various reasons are still hurting. And testing continues for the older kids this week. It wouldn't seem like this would affect me, but it does. I have a sub coming in (thankfully it is our wonderful kindergarten aide) every morning starting tomorrow so I can go test a small group (only certified teachers can administer it). That means sub plans and a change in schedule (which can cause a lot of energy in young students). We also have shortened activity times (planning time for me). Throw in some feelings of isolation (like at the Easter egg hunt...it is not easy to socialize when you are chasing a toddler around) and some other frustrations...well, I was ready to wallow in my sorrows.

Except tonight was pretty pleasant. I haven't had a chance to do a big grocery shopping trip, so Mark ran to the store to pick up some odds and ends. We ended up deciding on hamburgers at the last minute for dinner. Unfortunately, it was REALLY cold and dreary out today. So we decided to use Mark's new griddle (which worked fine...not quite the same but much easier in weather like this). We also threw some shoestring fries in the oven (yum). Child 1 started wishing that there was a Metro that would take us to DC/Georgetown so he could have Johnny Rockets' milkshake with his burger. I started thinking, "Why not?" Now, I am sure that doesn't sound like a big deal, but I really don't think I have ever made shakes for the kids. We pick them up sometimes for dessert or dinner, but we don't make them. Luckily we had some real ice cream (as opposed to my low fat ice cream) and chocolate syrup. So I pulled out the blender and whipped up some shakes while Mark finished the burgers and fries. The kids thought it was all the greatest thing ever (and said it was just like Johnny Rocket's...).

After dinner, we watched part of Annie. You know, like the classic orphan movie, Annie. Our older daughter got it in her Easter basket. First of all, as soon as we started watching, it all came back to me. I totally remember that movie, and it is just like I remember. I can break out in most of those songs (not pleasant to hear but I know the words). However, I will also say that the movie takes on a totally different meaning when two of your children are adopted. Early in the movie, Ms. Hannigan (sp?) says under her breath, "I don't know why anyone would want to be an orphan." And my heart hurt to hear those words. Interestingly enough, my kids did not once make a connection between that orphanage and where Child 3 came from. I am thankful for that! (Child 1 did get a little indignant though about the way the girls were treated...he is my legalistic kid :)

Even sweeter was the youngest. All of the kids were sweet tonight, but he was extra cuddly tonight. He just wanted to be held, not in a whiny way or clingy, but just in an "I missed you" way. (He did that with both of us) I will always take extra snuggle time. I really enjoyed it.

Oh, did I tell you what my sweet daughter said? Our Sunday School teacher told Child 3 she looked pretty yesterday. Then she told Child 3 I looked pretty too. My dear daughter responded with, "Yeah, but I look prettier than she does." Gotta love the honesty of a four year old! (Of course, why would she look prettier? Because Mommy spent all of her time and money on the kids not herself...)

Oh, and have I mentioned Child 4's latest favorite word? "Why?" Really? Isn't he a bit young for that???

I know this is short, but I am feeling sleepy. I better get ready for bed. I have testing to do tomorrow. Have a good night!
Reba