That Old Box Thing

Mysia (11) was taking part in a special class project on Wednesday. They were discovering how moving parts work in electronics. With my permission, she brought in my old portable CD player that stopped working for them to disassemble.

After picking her up from school, I had asked how it went. She told me that her classmates loved it. She then added that there were a few other things they got to take apart. In fact, there was one that was really cool.

“You know dad, that old box thing that plays movies from a black square cartridge….? I can’t remember what it’s called.”

I replied, “You mean a VCR.”

She exclaimed, "Yeah!!! That’s it!”

Boy, now doesn’t that make me feel old….

~Matt

Mysia: Now 10!

Back at the end of January, Mysia turned 10! 

Wow… how time has flown. She is growing up so fast. One smart girl too.

As a parent, I’m so proud of her. Even though still a kid, she’s awesome. Her thoughts and actions prove how much insight she has on many aspects of life, and it often floors me. Her and I can spend much time in conversation. A very social personality, she can be sensitive on some matters, and can get a bit emotional with a compassionate heart. Such a sweetheart.

Of course, she takes after Lydia with her reading and getting lost in her books. We’ll usually find her sitting on her bed enjoying a good story. Mysia is also very creative with her writing. There are notes everywhere. Yes, she is definitely a joy to have around!

For her birthday, we upgraded her cell phone to an iPhone 5c. By doing so, we’re teaching her responsibility, especially with technology. She is able to keep in touch with us, along with other family and her friends. She loves interaction, so you will often find her in some sort of communication on her free time.

Mysia is also doing great with her homework and piano lessons. There are times when she gets frustrated, but is learning to deal with the problems and making great achievements. She’s also taken on more responsibilities with chores. For example, she’s in charge of the family laundry every weekend. She sorts and washes the the clothes, and doing a great job.

Mysia is an excellent daughter!


~Matt

Note: Mysia took the "selfie" and even did the editing herself! That's my girl....!

M&M: School Fundraising

 

Mysia and Malachi were looking at a paper showing prizes for selling school cards for fundraising. Malachi had brought it home earlier in the week. Now if you have kids, or young enough to remember, you know that these fundraisers give an option once a certain number has been reached. It's a pretty good incentive, and there are some really neat gifts!

Both were excited about all the offers abailable. One that grabbed their attention is that If they can sell 15, they'll get choice of a megaphone or mini-locker. Mysia pointed it out and told Malachi, "if we get that high, we'll definitely have to pick the mini-locker, there's no way Mom and Dad will let us bring the other thing in the house.... Ever."

Malachi responded with nodding head, "yup..."

LOL! They know!

~Matt

What "Salvation"?

Sometimes the neatest things happen to bring on great conversations with my kids. Even a simple answer can bring big topics up. I try my best to keep the answer on their level, and sometimes it begins with something humorous!

The other day, I was driving home after picking Mysia up. The radio was playing, and the song "Know So Salvation" by Legacy Five came on. I was singing along when Mysia interrupted me.

"Daddy...?" she asked in a concerned voice.

"Yes?" I replied.

She continued, "Why are they singing about a 'no SNOW salvation'? What's wrong with snow...?"

After my laughing spell, we talked about her 'knowing' Christ. Once explained, and the answer revealed, she was once again. She then told me how she can now explain it to her friends.

Oh, what a funny girl!

~Matt

Mysia's Birthday

Today Mysia turned 8!

It's amazing to think we have such a talented, beautiful daughter. She's smart, sweet, and well-behaved! Wonderful to have around, Mysia will win your heart. She has such compassion for others, and a kindhearted spirit.

7 Days of Thankfulness: DAY 5 - "Being A Parent"

This is a continuation of my "7 Days of Thankfulness"!

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DAY 5 - "Being A Parent"

Is it apparent that I'm a parent? Sometimes, it's tough for me to sit and imagine that I'm a Dad to two kids. I know that several that knew me as a teenage would have a difficult time imagining me be a responsible parent. The key word being "responsible"... lol!

Today, I'm thankful God has given me the responsibility of being a parent. I admit that after Lydia and I got married, the thought of being a dad scared me. I liked kids, but was uncertain that I could really take on the responsibility of dealing them full-time as my own. It's different when watching others children. As a parent, anything that happens falls under you as the 'owner of the kid'.

However, now I wouldn't trade what I have for anything! My kids are awesome! Yes, they have their faults, and can be some trouble at times... but I'll proudly claim them as mine anytime!  

I try very hard to do what is right as a responsible dad. I'm a kid at heart, so I have to remember that I'm the grown-up. It's never fun to have to correct and serve punishment, but it is something that is needed. I want Mysia and Malachi to grow up with respect and have good behavior. It's not an easy job. Lydia and have expectations on our children, and their learning.

I'm happy to report that both kids have told to me from time to time that I'm the coolest dad. I guess I'm doing something right! I just want to be a good example and make sure that Mysia and Malachi love and respect me as their dad. It is a serious responsibility, and I'm up for the challenge. I pray that I'll never give up... it is worth every moment!

I'm thankful to be a parent!

~Matt

Nose Hairs

Yes, I have them. Long nose hairs. I guess it’s one of those ‘growing older’ issues that one has to deal with. But hey.... I’m only 30.

Well, the other day I had an annoying one hanging out there. Yup, dangling from my nostrils. It was a bother, and I grabbed at it and was able to yank it free, with a little sharp pain of course!

Mysia was watching me, and commented, “Boy, I’m glad I’m a girl, so I don’t have to worry about nose hairs when I get old like you Dad!”

I didn’t correct her.....

~Matt

Beating the heat

Ahhh.... as you can imagine, with summer starting, life has been busy. Although, it's not too hectic! We've been focusing on making sure that this summer is more relaxed after having such a busy school year. We're determined to do more 'fun' things as a family, and just enjoy the summer. So far... it's been pretty good!

If you read my weekly posts on what goes on, hopefully you'll see that we're not too busy to enjoy each day. lol. However, I've been spending more time doing other things than sitting down and putting any thoughts together for this blog... oops!

Lately, with the heat, we just don't want to venture out too much. Plus, it just doesn't want to motivate a person to do anything. But we did get a chance to beat the heat by swimming occasionally at my parents' house. That water just feels too good!

I'm also thankful for air-conditioning! I guess we're spoiled, but it's awesome not to sweat.

I hope everyone is staying cool!!!

Imitation

I like to chronicle some of the things my kids say and do. They give me a lot of material. And yes, I don't always remember to write them down. Unfortunately, some can't be shared, due to the nature of the topic... (and to keep us all from embarrassment)

The other day, I decided to write one of the funny moments as a comic strip (I do this from time to time). Well, that got the kids excited, and they decided to be creative too. Yup... it sure makes me a proud daddy to watch them try to imitate me!

~Matt

Mysia: 3rd Quarter Report Card

Yesterday, Mysia brought home her 3rd quarter report card from school. I guess it shouldn't be any surprise... she's excelling in everything! It's exciting. Even though she missed out on several days of school due to her strep throat and tonsils, she was still able to keep up with the class. I can't be more proud of her. According to the 'report card' she's not hurting in any area. Talk about awesome!

We don't have to fight her to keep on top of her homework either. In fact, she had her homework completed at the boys' and girls' club before coming home yesterday. And to top it off, after supper, she did 'extra' homework she had received from school!

The only thing I can think of is poor Malachi... he's got quite an act to follow. However, I'll have to admit that he's another type. I expect him to excel in everything sports and PE related activities. Of course, he's creative too. So we'll just see!

No mater what... these kids of ours are super smart! I'd better watch out...

~Matt