Lists and Charts

I guess I have a little obsession with charts, lists and signs. My kids tend to roll their eyes every time I introduce a new one, but I have found it's the best way to get things done around here. Some work better than others and many get abandoned, but I sure love to make them:)

I got the "family laws" idea from my relatives that write parenting books. We've had them for a few years now but we still need reminding every now and then.

My kids do better when they can check something off. We use a lot of paper, but it's worth it.



The house cleaning "spread sheet" yes, Dave got involved in this one. I think we overwhelmed the kids with it, it's not going very well.



Zones are my favorite and seemed to work better.

Above it all I have my "Simplify" sign to remind me not to get too carried away!

Fiddler on the Roof

Bree is in the Musical "Fiddler on the Roof" at her school. She didn't plan on this but they needed a jr. high fiddler and I guess she fit the part. We didn't realize what a time commitment this would be and have learned a lot about what it takes to be in a musical. She hasn't had much time for anything else (like-violin graduation, solo and ensemble and ASTA) and it will be a miracle if she can keep her grades up this term, but she is having a BLAST and has made a lot of new friends! She is loving it, but is exhausted!!!Watching her the last few weeks has made me appreciate my average childhood. I couldn't have handled half of what she does.

Someday

I took this picture so that someday when my children are all grown and gone I will remember that it's O.K.:))))

First Violin Lesson

This kid loves anything music!

I bought this little violin when Bree first started. The other kids didn't seem to care much for it, but Kate LOVES it. She shakes with excitement when we get it out and cries for 10 minutes when we put it away. I hope she follows in her big sister's footprints with that one.

Abby's Birthday Part 2

Well, we tried! None of us were feeling well and 4 of us ended up with the flu. (even though we had flu shots) I didn't feel like making a cake, so I bought one at last minute. Abby wouldn't touch it, she said it made her nauseous! Kate was the only one feeling good and she was ready to eat the whole cake herself.

I guess sometimes ya gotta get sick, sorry it was on your Birthday Ab. You were a good sport!