Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Thursday, December 26, 2013
A Letter to My Family 2013
From youngest to oldest...
Dear Ryan,
2013 has been a year full of growth. I see how hard you work at doing the right thing and "keeping it together" when things don't go your way. The changes I have seen are tremendous.. I am proud of how you treat others and the wonderful manners you have all the time. You are a fun friend and a kind soul. You are sensitive and I can see your wheels turning when you are processing something. I love the questions you ask. You are so funny, you make us laugh every single day. You are a good little brother by always including Haley in what you are playing. I love that your goal is to get your sister to laugh at you. I adore how playful you are. I am in awe of your imagination. The books that you write and the stories that you come up with blow me away. I love that you cuddle with me. I am impressed that you are so into reading and wanting to learn to read all the words. You are doing so well at school and I am so happy that you have found your comfort in kindergarten. I know how frustrated you get when you are interrupted or don't have undivided attention when trying to say something. I hope I am being the mom you need me to be. I wouldn't change anything about you. I see you. I hear you. I appreciate you and all you add to our family. I love you.
Dear Me,
This year was a year of reminding and relearning. I know I slipped back into some old ways in particular aspects of my life. These are things I have worked hard at and I feel I was tested with this year. I am recovering from my relapse and feel good about how I am going back to the way I worked so hard to be. I want to model this for my children. When I ask the question, "Does this affect me or my family?", if the answer is no, my path is clear. I need to not spend time, energy or thoughts on issues that I have no control over. I have learned this lesson, more than once. Some lessons need to be relearned. I am proud that I have not hated my body this year, but have turned my thoughts into only loving ones that include appreciating all my body can do.I promise to spend more time on flexibility and core strength as well as meditation versus "super sweaty work outs" as I know it will pay off in the long run and gives me calm and peace in the present. I have done a good job at being consistent with my expectations for Haley and Ryan.Even though I am having a nice year at school, I know something needs to change. I think the work with Common Core will be exactly what I need to shake things up a bit. I take pride in who I choose to be in my life- all people who lift me and my family up and bring even more light into our lives. I'm bored with my hair. What should be next? And for Pete's sake, be in more pictures. The fact that I couldn't find a single, current photo is just pathetic. Other than that, I am happy with who I am and am proud that I continuously work on being better. I wouldn't change that about myself.
Dear Josh,
I feel like this year you hit the jackpot. Both literally (see above) and metaphorically. You are an extraordinary person and this year you seemed to just kind of burst out. You accomplish so much as a husband, father, son, brother, friend, and employee. This year people took notice. More than normal. It excites me. I admire how you have endless energy with the kids. I mean, who else can pretend, create new games, and wrestle for hours at a time? I cherish the way you communicate with me and that you really listen to and validate what I feel. You are incredibly funny. Ryan gets his awesome (and silly) sense of humor from you. You are thoughtful and kind and creative. You are an amazing role model for me and the kids.You teach us that we don't need to just think about our aspirations, but can go for them in the moment. Nothing stops you from going for what you want. I hope that I am the wife you need me to be. I wouldn't change anything about you. I hear you. I see you. I appreciate you and all you add to our family. I love you.
The Russell Four- Let's rock 2014!
2013 has been a year full of growth. I see how hard you work at doing the right thing and "keeping it together" when things don't go your way. The changes I have seen are tremendous.. I am proud of how you treat others and the wonderful manners you have all the time. You are a fun friend and a kind soul. You are sensitive and I can see your wheels turning when you are processing something. I love the questions you ask. You are so funny, you make us laugh every single day. You are a good little brother by always including Haley in what you are playing. I love that your goal is to get your sister to laugh at you. I adore how playful you are. I am in awe of your imagination. The books that you write and the stories that you come up with blow me away. I love that you cuddle with me. I am impressed that you are so into reading and wanting to learn to read all the words. You are doing so well at school and I am so happy that you have found your comfort in kindergarten. I know how frustrated you get when you are interrupted or don't have undivided attention when trying to say something. I hope I am being the mom you need me to be. I wouldn't change anything about you. I see you. I hear you. I appreciate you and all you add to our family. I love you.
Dear Haley,
This year I have seen you find a comfort zone in yourself. As my oldest child, all of your new phases are new to me as a parent. Thank you for bringing these life experiences to me. I admire that you like what you like, play with who you play with, wear what you want to wear (even though I argue about it sometimes- how are you not freezing sometimes?), read what you want to read, and participate in what you want to participate in. You are an old soul and I trust your sense of character in others. You are a good big sister by being Ryan's friend and playmate among other things.. I appreciate that you are playful and kind. You are responsible and are becoming more independent all the time.I love that you stay up past your bedtime because you can't put a book down. I am very much impressed with your incredible artistic talents. I cherish any moment you show physical affection as I know that you have never been very "touchy feely".You are changing, physically, and I hope that I am being the mom you need and that you feel comfortable to ask any questions you have. I wouldn't change anything about you. I hear you. I see you. I appreciate you and all you add to our family. I love you.
This year was a year of reminding and relearning. I know I slipped back into some old ways in particular aspects of my life. These are things I have worked hard at and I feel I was tested with this year. I am recovering from my relapse and feel good about how I am going back to the way I worked so hard to be. I want to model this for my children. When I ask the question, "Does this affect me or my family?", if the answer is no, my path is clear. I need to not spend time, energy or thoughts on issues that I have no control over. I have learned this lesson, more than once. Some lessons need to be relearned. I am proud that I have not hated my body this year, but have turned my thoughts into only loving ones that include appreciating all my body can do.I promise to spend more time on flexibility and core strength as well as meditation versus "super sweaty work outs" as I know it will pay off in the long run and gives me calm and peace in the present. I have done a good job at being consistent with my expectations for Haley and Ryan.Even though I am having a nice year at school, I know something needs to change. I think the work with Common Core will be exactly what I need to shake things up a bit. I take pride in who I choose to be in my life- all people who lift me and my family up and bring even more light into our lives. I'm bored with my hair. What should be next? And for Pete's sake, be in more pictures. The fact that I couldn't find a single, current photo is just pathetic. Other than that, I am happy with who I am and am proud that I continuously work on being better. I wouldn't change that about myself.
Dear Josh,
I feel like this year you hit the jackpot. Both literally (see above) and metaphorically. You are an extraordinary person and this year you seemed to just kind of burst out. You accomplish so much as a husband, father, son, brother, friend, and employee. This year people took notice. More than normal. It excites me. I admire how you have endless energy with the kids. I mean, who else can pretend, create new games, and wrestle for hours at a time? I cherish the way you communicate with me and that you really listen to and validate what I feel. You are incredibly funny. Ryan gets his awesome (and silly) sense of humor from you. You are thoughtful and kind and creative. You are an amazing role model for me and the kids.You teach us that we don't need to just think about our aspirations, but can go for them in the moment. Nothing stops you from going for what you want. I hope that I am the wife you need me to be. I wouldn't change anything about you. I hear you. I see you. I appreciate you and all you add to our family. I love you.
The Russell Four- Let's rock 2014!
Thursday, December 19, 2013
A Day for the Books
A few weeks ago I had a stand out day in my life. The stars aligned and all 3 of my family members were recognized for different things. Josh was even recognized twice in one day! He was surprised by the one in the evening, but was sure something was up when I showed up to his work event with Haley and Ryan. I felt the high of the day's events for quite a few days. My pride did not come from the awards themselves. My fulfillment came from the fact that others are seeing in my family members the same things I see and adore in each one of them. They were all being recognized for who they are. I get to see their spirits all of the time. It is quite something when others see it and honor it. It was a proud, proud day.
I do realize my last few posts have been rather boastful. I am very conscientious about what I write and never want to be "that mom." But, this is where life is right now and I want to capture it for my family. I am a happy lady and a proud mom and wife. This time last year was devastating, heart breaking and stressful with everything with my brother. I want to celebrate all that is good in life.
I want my kids and husband to be able to read this years from now and know how much I basked in their light.
Plus, I write about the other stuff too, so there it is.
Life on Stage
The last 2 months have been quite different in our household. Josh was cast in a play that required him at the theater and average of 5 days a week. It was a big commitment but we were all excited for him as he has not been on stage in YEARS.
The kids were oozing with excitement! When we walked in the theater doors there are pictures of the actors on the wall. There was Josh! "Ryan, look! Dad is famous!"
We then sat down and looked through the program. Haley read through Josh's bio, which included the fact that he has children, "Ryan, look! We're famous!" They also happened to their grandparents there (Joni and Lloyd were one row away with family friends) to share their excitement with.
Josh's entrance started with a knock on the door and saying "Uncle Willy, it's me, Ben!" It happened about 5 minutes into the show. And when the kids heard Josh's voice they both shot their head toward one another and their faces lit up. Dad was coming out on stage! Josh had a big part so we were able to watch him for the majority of the show. It was so cool to watch the kids watch him. Being the family of a star, we were able to see the stage and backstage and dressing room after the show.
They were full of questions during and after the show and every night Josh left for a performance. "Dad, is Uncle Willy your real uncle?" "Did that man really swallow a stick?" "When you're not there, is Uncle Willy at his house alone?"- all from Ryan.
The experience is one I know that they will remember. Haley asked to see it a number of times after that, but I knew once was enough. That night, when Josh tucked Ryan in, Ryan stopped him on the way out, and just like a Hallmark commercial, said, "Daddy? I'm really proud of you."
The show ended last weekend and last night I was upstairs running laundry. The soundtrack of the household was Josh playing with the kids and acting as if they were in a strict boot camp..." Attention! Give me 10 push ups, on the double! 1, 2, 3..." I laughed to myself as to Josh, life is a stage and his kids are his greatest audience. His imagination and creativity are infused in all aspects of our family life. The kids eat it up.I love that he has it because I sure don't.
We are glad he's back and that all stage work has returned to being done in house. Bravo, Josh! We are all proud of you.
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Santa's Lap 2013
We'll find out Christmas morning if they were naughty or nice!
Monday, November 25, 2013
Passion and Priority
The best advice I ever received about parenting was from a woman I have never even met. A friend shared the wise words from a woman in her book group. The advice was this- only volunteer for things that give you more time with your children, not take you away from them.
As a working mom, I have really taken this advice to heart. Originally I thought I would be actively involved in their school PTA or other committees. That is how I pictured myself as a mom.But this advice has stuck with me and has helped make certain decision very easy. Going to PTA meetings takes me away from my kids. Coaching soccer gives me more time with them. Pretty simple formula and it has really worked for me.
With that said, I am fairly passionate about my job and education in general. When I see injustice (in any aspect of life really) I want to act.There are things happening that make me want to take major action. I don't really like hearing "about" things. I would rather hear them myself. I like to ask questions and get things clarified. Our current board has caused much controversy in the district. I am not clear about what is accurate and what is fabricated. I do know that the more I hear, the more I want to get involved. My soul always lets me know when it is time to act. Right now I am still able to do my job the way I want to. There are definitely more hoops to jump through because of certain processes put into place, but I can still do it.
I have never believed that change is impossible. I am a firm believer that when you don't like something the way it is, you have power to advocate for change. I also know that my first priority is my family and I am not willing to change that. Maybe I would feel more urgency if I saw that my students were being affected. It's hard. I remember this feeling when I moved schools. My old school knew my work ethic and understood when I stepped down from committees and such because I had a new baby. When I moved to the middle school no one knew me or my "team player" attitude. It was so hard for me to sit in meetings and not volunteer for things when I was new to the staff. But, with a 2 and 1/2 year old and another baby on the way, I simply wasn't willing.
So, thank you Random Woman with the Fabulous Advice. When I have tough decisions to make, your words make my choice for me. And every single time I have heeded your wisdom, I have not regretted it.
As a working mom, I have really taken this advice to heart. Originally I thought I would be actively involved in their school PTA or other committees. That is how I pictured myself as a mom.But this advice has stuck with me and has helped make certain decision very easy. Going to PTA meetings takes me away from my kids. Coaching soccer gives me more time with them. Pretty simple formula and it has really worked for me.
With that said, I am fairly passionate about my job and education in general. When I see injustice (in any aspect of life really) I want to act.There are things happening that make me want to take major action. I don't really like hearing "about" things. I would rather hear them myself. I like to ask questions and get things clarified. Our current board has caused much controversy in the district. I am not clear about what is accurate and what is fabricated. I do know that the more I hear, the more I want to get involved. My soul always lets me know when it is time to act. Right now I am still able to do my job the way I want to. There are definitely more hoops to jump through because of certain processes put into place, but I can still do it.
I have never believed that change is impossible. I am a firm believer that when you don't like something the way it is, you have power to advocate for change. I also know that my first priority is my family and I am not willing to change that. Maybe I would feel more urgency if I saw that my students were being affected. It's hard. I remember this feeling when I moved schools. My old school knew my work ethic and understood when I stepped down from committees and such because I had a new baby. When I moved to the middle school no one knew me or my "team player" attitude. It was so hard for me to sit in meetings and not volunteer for things when I was new to the staff. But, with a 2 and 1/2 year old and another baby on the way, I simply wasn't willing.
So, thank you Random Woman with the Fabulous Advice. When I have tough decisions to make, your words make my choice for me. And every single time I have heeded your wisdom, I have not regretted it.
Friday, November 22, 2013
Josh on Fire
Remember Readers,
The main purpose of this blog is to keep a record of life in our family. It does and will include funny stories, milestones, growing pains, and celebrations.
BEWARE of this post as it includes much celebration (aka- bragging).
Anyone who knows Josh, knows he is one of a kind. I have felt so proud of him recently and I wanted to write about it.
Josh has an equal passion for sports and the arts. Recently, he became involved with a player from the Warriors (his FAVORITE team), Kent Bazemore. Kent has hooked up with Josh's non-profit to work on a program that brings arts to troubled youth. We got to attend a fundraising event where Josh and Kent worked together to raise funds through jewelry sales. Steph Curry came and Josh got to meet him and I got to chat with his wife. So, so cool.
I always love going to work events with Josh. Although it doesn't happen often, I always enjoy observing him interact. It is obvious he is well respected and well liked and what wife doesn't want to see that?
A few months ago, Josh was asked to audition for a show. He hasn't done theater since our mid twenties. Long story short, he made the show and has spent the last month in rehearsals and will spend the next month doing performances. I got to see his first show last night. He. Was. Fab. It was so fun seeing him up there, doing a superb job. I was filled with pride.
The other day he was driving to work and saw a woman on the side of the road waving her jumper cables. Josh turned around to help her, knowing he would be late for work. He pulled up and the woman told him she had been standing there for 15 minutes trying to get help. As he connected the cables, he said it was clear that this woman lived in her car. They chatted for a few minutes and as he was about to leave, he asked her if she needed any money. She started to cry and said that she never asks, that she never wanted to be "that person." Josh drove away yet still wondered what else he could do for her. He had no idea and was still thinking about it when he told us the story at dinner.
Josh is someone who is always getting better. Right now, at this point in life, he is on fire! What an amazing model for me and our kids.
I adore the guy. What can I say?
The main purpose of this blog is to keep a record of life in our family. It does and will include funny stories, milestones, growing pains, and celebrations.
BEWARE of this post as it includes much celebration (aka- bragging).
Anyone who knows Josh, knows he is one of a kind. I have felt so proud of him recently and I wanted to write about it.
Josh has an equal passion for sports and the arts. Recently, he became involved with a player from the Warriors (his FAVORITE team), Kent Bazemore. Kent has hooked up with Josh's non-profit to work on a program that brings arts to troubled youth. We got to attend a fundraising event where Josh and Kent worked together to raise funds through jewelry sales. Steph Curry came and Josh got to meet him and I got to chat with his wife. So, so cool.
I always love going to work events with Josh. Although it doesn't happen often, I always enjoy observing him interact. It is obvious he is well respected and well liked and what wife doesn't want to see that?
A few months ago, Josh was asked to audition for a show. He hasn't done theater since our mid twenties. Long story short, he made the show and has spent the last month in rehearsals and will spend the next month doing performances. I got to see his first show last night. He. Was. Fab. It was so fun seeing him up there, doing a superb job. I was filled with pride.
The other day he was driving to work and saw a woman on the side of the road waving her jumper cables. Josh turned around to help her, knowing he would be late for work. He pulled up and the woman told him she had been standing there for 15 minutes trying to get help. As he connected the cables, he said it was clear that this woman lived in her car. They chatted for a few minutes and as he was about to leave, he asked her if she needed any money. She started to cry and said that she never asks, that she never wanted to be "that person." Josh drove away yet still wondered what else he could do for her. He had no idea and was still thinking about it when he told us the story at dinner.
Josh is someone who is always getting better. Right now, at this point in life, he is on fire! What an amazing model for me and our kids.
I adore the guy. What can I say?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)