The Misadventures of the Farmer Family

It has been an eventful month at the Farmer Household. Not that it is ever really calm or anything, but this past month has been a doozy.

It started with Bryce loosing two front teeth at once. I had known that one front tooth was loose and would be coming out soon. But, Bryce somehow managed to have both front teeth "pulled" out at once. He and his cousin were playing and he had something like a towel in his mouth pretending to be an animal. My niece, tugged on whatever was in his mouth and out popped both teeth. Thankfully, I wasn't there to witness this; but, my sister and parents said that he didn't miss a beat. Apparently, it didn't hurt a bit....maybe that second tooth was loose too. Who knows, but anyway, there is now a big, gaping hole in his smile; which (I must say) makes it about the cutest smile you've ever seen. See for yourself. In this particular picture, I think he is really trying to showcase his missing teeth because that's not his normal smile.
Then, we had parent observation again in Sara Kate's ballet class. It was really fun to watch and they have been learning their dance for the upcoming recital.

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That very next day, Sara Kate decided to swallow a Stainless Steel ball. It was one of the balls that come in the Magnetix sets. She was already in her PJs, laying in the bed. I didn't even know she had it at all until she started choking and coughing. Once it was down, she had gagged so much that she threw up and it freaked me out because there was a lot of blood in it. So, off we went to the ER. A metal ball shows up wonderfully on an xray, and it was determined that it was down below her stomach and it would have to make a 'natural exit'. I so wish I could have gotten a copy of that xray to post. It was really cool. So cool, in fact that we had to really 'talk' and convince Sara Kate not to ever put anything except food in her mouth again. The doctor said that if it had been bigger, we could have been in serious trouble because it could have gotten stuck somewhere and obstructed her airway. So, we are very thankful, once again, for God's protection over her. This child is going to be the death of me.

The following week, Bryce went on the last field trip of his kindergarten year. The entire Kindergarten went to the zoo and then to the Riverpark for a picnic.

As if all that wasn't enough excitement, the very next day, while I was at ballet with Sara Kate, the school called and told Brad that Bryce had fallen on the playground and gashed his head open. Sure enough, we took him to the doctor and he received his first set of stitches. Honestly, I'm really surprised that we've made it this long, as he is almost seven and is wild as a buck. But, he was a complete trooper and did not even cry during the stitches. And, for that, a mother is thankful. They had some sort of deadening liquid that I held on his head for about 15 minutes before the lidocaine shots. When it was time to deaden it with the lidocaine, he said ouch at each stick, but that was about all. This mom would like to go give the creator/inventor of said miracle liquid a big fat, sloppy kiss right now, so it's a good thing, they're an anonymous soul. Here is his cut after they got it all cleaned up.

That same night they both had their first T Ball game of the season. And, if you're wondering, I did ask the doctor if he could still play. Bryce has played for several years now, but this is Sara Kate's first year. She is nothing if not cute. However, she is more the dancy, prancy, fancy kind of girl and it appears that she doesn't posses the natural athletic ability that her brother has. It took her several, several, several tries to even hit it off of the tee (but in her defense, almost all of our practices were rained out). Her brother on the other hand, did not have to use a tee at all last year. He's a natural, if I do say so myself.

All of this happened, in the first two weeks of April. We still have an Easter post to share, but I'm just a little weary from ALL THE CRAZY!! Hopefully, coming soon, I'll share with you our wonderful Easter.

Our week

I am SO glad it is Saturday night. Saturday night means the week is almost over. In fact, we just have about 4 hours left of this one; and believe, me I'm very happy to rip these days from the calendar. Our week has been busy and challenging.

On Monday night, Bryce had a football game and got to play against his best friend. Bryce had his best game so far, with 3 solid tackles and 3 more close attempts. Sadly, we still lost, but you can really tell that the players are improving. So that was fun!

**************Before the big game*************

Tuesday, I did our monthly grocery shopping that morning and Bryce had Karate that afternoon. Also, on Tuesday we had the privilege of taking a meal to a couple at church with a newborn. Sara Kate went with me and was allowed to hold cute, little Andy with my help. She thought that was the berries. Unfortunately, on my way home I was the lucky recipient of a ticket. My offense? I wasn't buckled. That. Is. All. You would think that the kind sir would have just given me a warning since I wasn't doing anything else wrong (like speeding) but no......no warnings for me. So, if you live near me, they mean it when they say, "click it or ticket" ......to the tune of $15.

Interestingly enough, Bryce understands my pain all too well. Wednesday he got in trouble at school. Now, it's nothing major or I wouldn't be broadcasting it all over the internet. Each day, in his "take home papers" there is either a happy or sad face to indicate his behavior. Bryce has NEVER had an issue until this week (it was bound to happen sometime). Wednesday, he received his first sad face. But, the funny part of the story occurred when we were discussing what happened. Bryce was very aggravated because apparently the teacher usually gives warnings, and this particular time, she did not. So, Bryce reasoned that really his offense should have just been a warning (makes sense to me). Believe me, I understood very well (see paragraph above). He went on to say, "Mom, even God gives second chances." (tell that to the officer) Okay, so what was I supposed to say to that. Another lesson, learned the hard way I suppose (for both of us).

Thursday, Sara Kate and I did our usual running around which includes ballet and my allergy shots. We also had karate again that afternoon. Bryce received the invitation to test for his yellow belt on Tuesday. And, he was super excited. He has been asking me when he was going to get it. If you think of it, and don't think it's too trivial, please pray for him Tuesday afternoon. But, Thursday was also my anniversary (9 years)! Mom had called and offered to keep the kids so that we could go out (I love it when that happens, thanks mom & dad). So, Brad & I got to try a new restaurant in town. It was fabulous. My favorite was the lobster bisque. It has put Brad and I on the search (again) for the all elusive great bisque recipe (we've tried several).

Friday was just fine. We stayed in and didn't do anything or go anywhere.....well Brad cut the grass. But, we stayed home and did normal "home" stuff, trying to play catch up.

And, today we had a football game and a birthday party and a few other errands to run. One thing on the "to do" list was to get the B-man a haircut. While there, Sara Kate insisted on getting one too. I have been thinking of cutting her hair, but Brad said that he liked it long. However, she is a persistent little thing and she kept going to Brad while we were waiting on Bryce, saying, "Daddy, I want a real haircut." He relented, and we took the plunge and cut her hair into a cute little chin length bob. I think she looks darling, and I hope it will be easier. But, I'll let you judge for yourself.

Her birthday is in November, and she is wanting an American Girl doll. I think maybe we'll get her Kit, because now, they look a lot alike. Admittedly, this is not a great picture, it was taken after bath and before bed, and I didn't have the patience to really exert my photographic skill (or lack thereof.) Here is Kit. Don't you think they look similar?

I know most of this is mundane, and I'm sure most people have clicked away. Why, would anyone want to read a day by day account of my week. They wouldn't of course, But, I just thought our little "life lesson" about following the rules was worth sharing. And, I needed to throw in karate, and football, and new do's. So, there you have it. I'm off to soak in the tub! Wouldn't you?

Catching Up with all sorts of stuff

I don't exactly know the reason for my lack of posting lately. It is either because we've been incredibly busy or incredibly boring. I'm not sure if you can be both busy and boring. But, if you can, we've mastered it. Pretty pathetic isn't it? Well, despite the fact that this may bore you to tears, I'm going to catch us up. And, I must warn you, this is a hodge podge if ever there were one. As I said, I'm catching us up, so the subject matter will be all over the place.

For starters, I wanted to post this picture in reference to my last post. And, the fact that I am doing so only solidifies the fact that indeed, we are boring and pathetic. Yes, if there were ever a doubt before, there is absolutely no question now. No, ma'am. But, anyhow, I was so excited the other day when I got to make something other than a PB&J for lunch that I thought I would celebrate with a picture. (Never mind that Bryce still got the "old standby".) Pathetic? You bet'cha.

Around Bryce's birthday, Grandma Sheryl got Sara Kate an Easy Bake Oven. She has really enjoyed it; and just about drove us crazy until she baked her masterpiece. Of course, her culinary debut must be captured on film. Here she is with the final product. I have pictures of the entire process, but you pretty much get the idea right? And in case you're not sure, it is a small cake with chocolate icing. She didn't even eat it, but then again, it was more about the baking than the eating. She has a cookie mix too. So stay tuned.

Okay, on the first weekend in September, the neighboring small town up from ours had their annual Civil War Battle Reenactment . Brad took the kids, along with Bryce's good buddy, Mason. I had the privilege of being busy, so I missed out on the fun. But, I think the kids had a good time. Here they are at the reenactment, and here's what they saw:
Above is the infamous tunnel. Also, Brad put red hats on both the boys so that he could keep up with them easily. I just thought it was kind of funny that Brad thought of doing something like that. I'm usually the safety freak..........or was that my idea?

And, last but not least, Bryce had his first football game on Tuesday night. We got clobbered. But, they were so stinkin' cute, it wasn't even funny.......especially, the cheerleaders. Man, Sara Kate is gonna eat that up. I thought it was so cute that the cheerleaders made a sign for the kids to run through, just like in high school. So, here's video of them "busting" through the sign.

Also, this is one my favorite moments of the night. There were several players on the sidelines during the game, and a few of them were more interested in the cheerleaders than the game. That is too funny. But, please, tell me it doesn't start this soon. Please. Please.
And, here is my big guy. He is looking ready and pumped for the big game.

Okay, sorry that was all over the place. But, it is what it is...........and it ain't nothing but a "thang". Right, MB?

As the SNL skit says, "You're Up to Date."

The Best of Both Worlds

I'm hoping Hannah Montana doesn't mind if I borrow her title, but it certainly describes our family. When you have a child of each gender, you honestly do have the best of both worlds. When we found out Bryce was a boy, I was relieved. I honestly could not imagine what I would do with a girl. So when we found out Sara Kate was a girl, I was obviously a little nervous; as I'm not the fru-fru, girly-girl kind of girl. I hated wearing dresses and fixing my hair, and I never took dance.

But, I must admit, I am pleasantly surprised and I'm loving it. I get to do all the cool boy stuff and all the fru-fru girly stuff.


Last week, KatieBell started Ballet. Honestly, I wanted her to take gymnastics, as she is not the most graceful child in the world. Cutest and most adorable? Yes. Graceful? No, not by a long shot. But, nothing would do her but to take ballet. I tried all manner of coercion and she was not having any of it. So, I had to take "dancers 101" from Tammy and figure out all the stuff about tights and leotards and ballet shoes. Once I figured all that out, we excitedly walked through the doors last Thursday. I'm not able to go in to class with her, but I did get some pictures before class began. From what I understand, they will have a parent observation day where we can go in and watch. But, for now, enjoy these shots.


Does she look a teeny bit excited?

Again, keep watching for more pictures and possibly a video.



But, this is the best of both worlds remember? And, I don't know what would classify as being a world away from ballet more than football. Bryce had his first football practice tonight. Oh my word y'all, it's both adorable and nerve wracking, all at once. Have a look at my tough little man out there on the grid iron.



Those boys look absolutely lost in all of that gear. But they love it. And, finally, enjoy some actual practice footage.

Fun Fact Friday: I'm a maniac

Well, it happened. I have turned in to that crazy mother. We all know the one. The mom sitting in the stands, um scratch that, the mom standing in the stands, screaming her head off, and waving her arms like crazy. Yep, that was me. I really don't know what happens. One minute I'm this normal person sitting in the stands and the next, I'm a cheerleader on steroids. Believe me, this is no pretty picture, but it's unstoppable.


Last night was the start of a Pre-Season Double Elimination T-Ball Tournament. Did you hear that people? A pre-season tournament....for T-Ball? Quite frankly, I thought the concept was a bit over the top.....especially since the parents (or any visitor) had to pay $1 to watch!! Are you kidding me, people? Anyway, all that changed when the game started.

Bryce has played T-Ball for the last two years. Technically, I think his first year he played he was really too young. But, what I'm saying is that he has two years on most of his team mates, although there are a few others who have played before as well. This particular association if very serious about their sports, and they play the better players up front unlike the last two years when every kid took a turn in every position. I did not know all this going in to it. When I signed up, I was not banking on a pre-season, double elimination tournament. But, with all that being said, Bryce was the lead off batter and he was up front when fielding, so that he could get the ball and get runners out.

The first inning, we took a beating. Our opponents scored 7 runs to our 1 (which was Bryce). But the second inning, they only scored two runs and we came back and scored 8. So, we were tied. My heart was absolutely racing. Coach put a runner on second and put Bryce up to bat. (apparently, that is the international rulebook way of handling a tie.....who knew there was an international rulebook) I had a quick word of prayer and he got a hit. Then, the team mate after Bryce got a hit, and our runner scored and so did Bryce. Whew.....sigh of relief. But, just let me describe the chaos that was the front row of the bleachers when Bryce was turing 3rd and heading for home. I think every last one of us was on our feet. GDaddy, Aunt Shelley, my mom, Bayley, me & Brad. I was holding Sara Kate (who was asleep) and waving my hands and hollering....it was truly hilarious. But, it wasn't just me. Oh, no ma'am, my mama was every bit as bad as I was. She was standing up, and had gotten right up to the fence to hoop & holler. We're real classy!!

And, if you thought that was bad. You should have seen us when our oppenents were out there having there last chance. The coach put Bryce right out front and instructed him, that if the batter hit the ball, to get it and run to 1st. According to the international rule book, there is an automatic two outs, so all we needed was one out. Well, sure enough the batter hit the ball......right to Bryce. He got it, and hustled all the way to first base, and got the runner out. Our coach was so excited that he ran over to Bryce and hoisted him in the air. By this time, my nerves were shot!!

The fact is, I turn in to a maniac when it comes to cheering for my kids. Now, I'm not one of these crazy T-ball folks that argues with the ref or is ugly or rude. That would not be fun at all. No, I'm just an over zealous cheerleader. And, really its not just for my kids. Unfortuantely, I'm like that with all of them. I'm telling you, it's the in-grained cheerleader coming out in me.

But, you know, I make no apologies. Our kids need a little cheering every so often. And, almost without fail, I think about how God must cheer for us when we do something great for His glory. It makes me want to be pleasing to Him when I see how much joy I get out of seeing my kids work hard and do something good. I want to give God a reason to cheer!!

That's it for Fun Fact Friday. I'm loud & I'm proud. What can I say?? We play game 2 of the tournament Saturday.....heaven help me. If you hear something around 1:00 or so, it's probably me. I'm leaving you with a few pictures from the game. Enjoy!

Bryce warming up before the game. He's the one about to throw. Check out his wind up.

Bryce at one of his at-bats. Sorry it's fuzzy, there's just no good way to take a picture from the stands. I think he was getting ready to swing here.

Bryce after getting the game winning out. He was totally pumped!!

What Farmers do in the Fall

Many people probably think that Farmers are plowing and preparing their fields for the spring planting season, but not us........the Farmers you know and love have been knee deep in soccer and gymnastics this Fall. Luckily, our livelihood doesn't depend on what we grow. But, if you really think about it, we're sowing some seeds aren't we?

First, we had Bryce's first season of soccer. It was a lot of fun. We loved our small little team, and our coaches (especially since Brad was one of them) and we had a great time. Bryce loved it, and as an extra bonus, seemed to have some skill or ability. I learned that I turn in to a crazy person when my son scores a goal. I don't care, there are worse things in the world; but I can see off in the not so distant future Bryce asking me to tone it down some. Oh well, I better go crazy while I can. You know, on a side note isn't it cool to think of God cheering for us when we make a "spiritual" goal. You can bet I'll never ask him to tone it down, I need all the cheering I can get. Anyway, enjoy a few pictures of our soccer experience.

On a funny note, Bryce's coach was also the sponsor of his team, and He just happens to be a gynecologist. So, Bryce's jersey had "Associates in Obstetrics & Gynecology" written very prominently on the front. That just strikes me as a little humorous. I'm sure he'll love looking back at these pictures one day and thinking, "what the heck?" I sure hope I'm around.

Sara Kate cracked me up all season, she just naturally assumed that she was on the team, and it was quite the workout to keep her off the field during games and practice. I was very relieved when her "Mommy & Me" gymnastics class started. I must say, unashamedly, that she was too

cute for words, and I can even prove it to you. Take one look at these pictures and try to argue with me.....or don't (my dad would say that I would argue with a sign post and I might add that I'll do my best to win.) Anyway, check out our budding gymnast.

I told you she was cute. She loved it too!! I can see her doing this more as she gets older. Somehow her personality just seems to fit rolly, rumbly, tumbly more than graceful ballerina. We'll see I guess.

OK- My fun fact of the day, is not so fun! And, quite frankly I'm not sure how useful or practical it is either; but a fact is a fact, and it's worth stating....if nothing else for my sanity only.

So here it is: WAITING STINKS! So, if you find yourself smack dab in the middle of waiting for something, especially something you really long for; then rest assured it's not you your smelling it's the wait. :) Don't you feel better now?

I say all that because I know first hand. We are waiting right now. Not only are we waiting, but we are longing; and that makes it even worse. We have been waiting for the referral for our little girl for almost a year now (Feb 9 will be a year) and it seems like we may have at least one more year and possibly more to continue waiting. So, ya'll please pray for us. Pray that the wait time will decrease and pray for patience for our family. Pray that God would give us wisdom and peace. Just pray. But just so you don't forget, I'll say it again, waiting stinks!