Change

I've never been good at changes.  I prefer routine, I like knowing what's going to happen, and I expect immediate results.  Type A?  I think so.

Anyway, lots of changes are happening in the Beckereleg household, and I'm slowly learning that variety really IS the spice of life.

Change:

First, and most important, Murray turned six (SIX!!!!) last week.  I'm proud, yet sad.  Cliche, I know, but time really does go fast.  Our little one went from dumping a box of Cheerios on the floor to building a Lego ambulance by himself in a flash.

Change:

As I type this, our nephew (my sister's son) is in the process of entering the world. We absolutely cannot wait to meet him.  In the meantime, we're taking care of his not-so-big sister, Brooklyn, who is just 17 months.  We love her to pieces, and we know we'll love her little brother, too.

Change:

Work is fabulous.  I love The Flag Family (www.flagfamily.com) and my co-workers very much.  It's such a blessing to walk in the door each morning and work side-by-side with people who have the same passion for the values and morals that Craig and I embrace.  Yesterday, I began part-time hours, which will give me more time to spend with Murray - what a blessing!  By the way, tune in to AM 1100, or for you Western ND folks, try AM 1090.  Shameless plug.  I am so proud to be a member of The Flag Family.  Believe it or not, we really are an extended family; we check in on each other after hours and on weekends, we pray for each other, and we care about each other.  

Change:

As you know, we foster dogs for Retrieve A Golden of Minnesota (RAGOM).  Several weeks ago, the transport team brought us Bella, 13-337.  She is a puppy mill rescue who came to us terrified and sick.  She has 2 massive hernias, has birthed many litters of puppies in her short life (she's four), her teeth are broken and some are missing, she had a serious bladder infection, and is suffering from hip displaysia and arthritis. She's also terrified of humans, although recently, she has decided that she likes my lap.  Did I mention she's only four?  We are nursing her back to health and all around well-being, but it's slow and steady.  Please, never, ever, ever, buy a puppy from a pet store or large facility breeder.  Puppy mills torture and neglect these poor dogs.  I'd like to get on my soap box here, but that's another post.

Change:

Speaking of Golden Retrievers, our puppy was born three weeks ago (this picture isn't necessarily her, but one of the litter.  We are third in line to pick). We'll get to meet her tomorrow, and pictures will follow.  We are very excited.  We should have her around Christmas.

So there you go.  While I've never been great at changes, it feels as though the most recent changes are all good.  I'm not sure what will happen next, but I'm ready!

I'm Back and Inspired

I know, I know, I've been extremely lazy about posting.  Not that I wanted to be, but sometimes, life just takes over.  I'm here to tell you that I'm back.  Really.  I promise this time, that is, if you're interested.

I tend to get a bit blue when the cold weather sets in, so I've decided to embrace each day by reminding myself how blessed I am.  Following are just a few of the reasons that I love life (in no particular order):


Murray's sweet little hand, tucked in my pocket in my own hand, when we walk to school. 

The sweet and happy tail-wagging greeting of Rudy (and our latest foster, Bella), when we come home after being away.  There is nothing better than a joyous welcome home from our sweet, four-legged K-9 ('s). 

Teaching a sick and scared puppy mill rescue how to live a "Golden Life", and watching his/her personality emerge daily.

Weekly (sometimes more) conversations with my beloved Grandma and Grandpa.  Spending time with them in person is even better (we're overdue).

Love and hugs from our nieces and nephews.  I had no idea how much I would love them, until the instant I met them.

My in-laws.  Pretty fabulous.

My job.  Faith, Family, Freedom, and Free Enterprise.  What a blessing.

My awesome sister.  She's teaching me how to be strong, and I'm so proud of her.

Our friends.  This is all of you.  We love you.

Craig.  My absolute best friend.  I love that we're best friends beyond all else.  Our relationship is number one, and you, my dear, are amazing. To steal a quote I recently read, "I love you like a squirrel loves acorns". 


So bring it on, winter, I'm ready.  I'm counting my blessings, and even you can't ruin them.

Blessings,
MM

Summer in Review

Sigh.  It's that time of year.  I always shed a tear or two (I've also been known to sob) at the end of summer.  I dread the endless winter that lies ahead.  I detest the thought of snow removal, freezing temps, and icy roads.  So to cheer me up, I went through some of the hundreds of videos and pictures that I took during the last three months, and I'm posting a few of my favorites:

 Memorial Day Weekend - It was chilly, but that didn't stop our little fisherman.

 Brooklyn having a snack in our back yard.

 We bought Murray a swing set.  Here he is, enjoying it with friends.

 Beautiful day on the dock.

 Not to be outdone by Murray, Rudy fishes for rocks.

 They look a little cranky, don't they?  Cheer up!  It's summer!

 Serious fishing on a calm morning.

 Murray is a very good in the neighbor's kayak.  Next year, he'll get his own.

 Big bass that Murray caught all by  himself.

Murray graduated to an open face fishing reel this year, and he's done fabulously.

Mags and Brooklyn enjoying a tandem kayak ride.

So even though summer is coming to an end, we still have a few beautiful weekends left.  Besides, I'm ever so thankful that we made a lifetime of memories in just a few short months.  Until next year, summer.  You will be missed.

Dear Family,

It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of my resignation as head dishwasher.  I have been quite satisfied with my position for several years, but unfortunately, my time has come to an end.  Recent events have forced me to make this difficult choice.

Our contract clearly states that members of the family are to carry dirty dishes to the kitchen and clear the table.  Line 589, point F, (contract 07302007) notes that "if parties refuse to cooperate with the head dishwasher, the party has the right to terminate the agreement."

This matter could quickly be solved by the defendant purchasing a mechanical dishwasher or a new home. 

If you have any questions, please contact my attorney, Margaret A. Burlingame.
   
Sincerely,
Mom
P.S.  Put your underwear in the hamper.  Both of you!

He's Driving Us Bat**** Crazy (in a good way)

Children are a blessing.  Truly, what a beautiful gift from God. 

But sometimes, said child(ren) can drive you batty (or batsh** crazy, as I like to say, but this is a family friendly blog so...).   

For example:

"Mom, MOM, MOOOOMMMMY!   WHERE is my car?  I can't find my car!  No, not THAT blue car, I mean the OTHER blue car.  NO, that car is not light blue enough and I want the blue car that has wings with the black on it.

Guess who has to find it?  Not us.
Or:

"Dad, I'm SO hungry.  I really need a snack.  No thanks, I don't want a Go-Gurt.  No thanks, I don't want a peanut butter sandwich. DAD, NO!  I do not want an ice cream treat.   Could I please just have a fruit snack?  Sheesh!"
Guess who will not be getting a snack?
Not the boy.

And then there's the bargaining tactic:

"Mom, if I pick up my toys, can I can have a treat?"
But, I want a treat!  I won't pick up my toys, and I don't CARE about money.  YOU ARE SO MEAN!
Guess who won't be receiving his allowance and is grounded from television?

THERE'S MORE:

The shaving of my legs saga continues (via my Facebook page):

Murray: Mama, I'm not trying to make fun of you, but do you really want these pokey things on your legs?
Me: No, that's why I shave them.
Murray: You should just shave them every day.
Me: I do shave them every day.
Murray: Well, then I think you should buy a new shaver.


And this:

Murray: Mom, when can I ask Sophia to marry me?
Me: When you are 25. Why do you want to marry her?
Me: It's just that she is the most "beautifulist!". But Mom, when can I ask her to marry me?
Me:  What happens when you get married?
Murray: You live with your wife.
Me: Why?
Murray: Because it would be sad if you didn't live with your wife. I really love Sophia and want her to marry me. 

 

And we can't forget this classic (our niece is a mixed baby):

 

My dad: I spy with my little eye, something brown.

Murray: Is it Brooklyn's skin? 

 

One more for you:

 

Us: What's the matter, Murray? Are you okay?
Murray (sniffling): I BONKED MY PENIS!!!

 

 

So, to all of you that love children, take heart.  When they drive you bat-sh** crazy, don't feel bad.  For every one annoying moment, there are at least 49,000 precious and hilarious moments.  Happy parenting.

 

P.S.  Stay tuned.  My blogging hiatus is over, and I have a ton to share.

 

Love

Love has many facets.

From Corintians 13:4-8

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.


From me:

Love is giving everything you can for your loved ones.  

Love is kindness, respect, trust and support.

Love is not judgemental and is given unconditionally, no matter what.

Love is your husband sewing the strap on your favorite bra that the foster puppy chewed.

Love is simple, love is kind.

I pray that my loved sister will read this.

You Warm My Heart

Dear Murray,

When you giggle at something funny, or just plain gross (you are a boy after all), you warm my heart.

When I witness your kindness to other people, you warm my heart.

When you fall asleep in my lap, holding your Pooh Bear close, you warm my heart.

When your creativity shines, you warm my heart.

When you get excited about anything and your eyes light up, you warm my heart.

When you look at me and tell me how much you love me, you warm my heart.

When I watch you playing and laughing, you warm my heart.



When you have good manners, you warm my heart.

When you want me to read to you, play a game with you, or just snuggle you, you warm my heart.

When I see a look of determined concentration on your face, you warm my heart.

When you tell me about your passions (i.e. Transformers and Power Rangers), you warm my heart.

When you talk about your love for Jesus, you warm my heart.

"Dear God, will you please tell Grandma Kathy to talk to us to tell us what it's like in heaven? I'm worried about her and I don't know if I can bring my bear and blanket. How do I know what it's like there? Do you have the same things up in heaven, God, and can she talk to us? Can I walk on the clouds? Thank you, God, love, Murray and Amen."

When you pet Rudy and tell him how wonderful he is, you warm my heart.

When you see me sad, and try to make me happy by singing "Twinkle, Twinkle", you warm my heart.

When you are growing up, you warm my heart.

When you are sad and have tears, my heart breaks.

And for the million other things you do to warm my heart, I have you to thank.  You are my boy. Here's to a lifetime of happiness, little one.

A Tribute to "Bluey"

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of "Bluey", Murray's beloved blue Beta fish.  He was found deceased this morning at approximately 10:34 by his five year old owner.

Bluey was a good fish.  He was kind and never complained.  His passions included floating around in his bowl and eating. 

Bluey's funeral arrangements are pending.  Murray needs time to grieve, and he just can't bear to send him to the big lake in the toilet sky.  We said a prayer over him; Murray asked God to let Bluey play with him someday, and he plans to honor him by naming all subsequent fish "Bluey".

Rest in peace, dear Bluey.  You were loved.

Okay, insert hysterical laughter here.  Here's how it all went down:

Murray asked me to come with him to look at something.  I did, and he led me to Bluey's bowl.  He pointed and matter of factly asked, "Mom, is Bluey dead?"  I callously replied, "Yep!"  not expecting sobbing to ensue.  I honestly didn't think he would care.

Well, sobbing did ensue, and I had to excuse myself from the room because I was laughing.  When I calmed down, we said a nice prayer over Bluey's bowl and discussed about what we would do with his body.  Murray is not ready to see him go, so his remains will stay in place until he is ready to make a decision (unless he starts to smell).  For now, we're having an open casket.

The following Facebook thread is hysterical (posted with permission).  We are feeling so grateful for the kind sentiments about Bluey.

The Obit:
It is with great sadness that I announce that Bluey, Murray's beloved blue beta fish has passed away. He was a good fish. We said a prayer for him, and now, he is in fish heaven. Murray is very sad about Bluey's passing, but Bluey will live in our hearts forever. Lots of Murray's tears around here today. He plans to honor Bluey by naming every single fish after him.

Am I a horrible mother for having to leave the room because I had to hide my hysterical laughter? My son's sadness is never funny, but it's a .99 fish for goodness sake. Poor kid. Life's lessons can be so hard.

From R.S.:

Oh my heavens, you've got me laughing hysterically too. No, you're not a bad mom. You would have been if you'd stayed in the room and laughed out loud. Politely excusing you to have a natural and normal reaction is permitted. By the way, when my puppy...

 

From J.R:

I can't believe Bluey was still alive! i thought he was done for when I was there! :) RIP Bluey.... Thank you for being a good fishy for Murray.

 

Marie Beckerleg Thanks, Rox! Murray is not ready to lay Bluey to rest, so we're giving him time to grieve. Lol!

 

From J.R.:

Are we going to bury him or convince him that the toilet will flush him to a big lake in Heaven??

 

Marie Beckerleg Funeral arrangements are pending. :)

 

From R.S.:

Marie, you have me roaring here! I mentioned a tribute on my wall, too, so others could join in a great heave of sympathy.

 

Marie Beckerleg I can't stop laughing! Craig is currently searching the Walmart web site for a new tank and new fish. He read our comment threads and your wall post and then he had to excuse himself. I could hear him snorting with laughter!

 

From R.S.:

I am laughing still and just asked the family to consider a moment of silence for this special intention. Elizabeth looked at me very strangely. I think she thinks I've lost it.

From J.R.:

omg. I am laughing so hard! poor Murray... What a kind heart he has. But... still super funny!!

 

And then, R.S. posted this on her wall:

Please join me in heartfelt condolences for "Bluey," the precious and beloved beta fish of my friend Marie Beckerleg's 5-year-old son, Murray. Our great loss becomes an eternal gain for the big ocean in heaven! :) (Thanks for the bittersweet smiles today, Marie. :))

 

 

God speed, Bluey.  You are missed.  But, we don't miss changing your water.

 

 

Get Your Flu Shot

Yesterday was a rough day.  I haven't been feeling well this winter - two weeks ago, I came down with strep, and before that, I caught every other bug that was going around.  And although my throat started to feel better a couple of days after the strep, I couldn't shake the exhaustion and the cough.

Yesterday, I was diagnosed with influenza b.  Yep, that one.  Darn me for not getting my flu shot.  I know better.

And when I get sick, really sick, I'm a big baby.  I want my mom (which obviously isn't possible), I hate myself for being incompetent and stuck in bed, and most especially, I feel incredibly guilty for missing work.  I detest myself when I can't meet my responsibilities.  And then I just turn into a sobbing, sick mess.

And so, once again today, I'm lying on the couch, unable to sleep.  Part of that is worry and anxiety about work and household stuff, but the rest of the sleeplessness is that every time I doze, I wake up in a coughing fit.  Cough medicine with codeine doesn't help, and I've even tried honey (which helps a bit better than the codeine, at least for a short while).

I need to tell my brain to shut off and let my body rest.  I need to kick this for once and for all.  Mostly?  I need spring.

There are worse problems in the world, and tomorrow is another day.  I'll get through it, I always do.

Lunch Lady

Hello Blogland!

I'm back, and I've missed this place.  I don't really know why I've been absent for so long, but I chalk it up to a crazy-busy life.

Months ago, I posted about how I'm finally back in the working world, and how much I love my job.  After the euphoria of being "back at it", reality and the bitter cold winter set in.  Don't get me wrong, I still love my work, it just came with a few challenges that I wasn't expecting.

Did you know, that as the head cook, I have to do a LOT of math? (I'm really not a math person.  At all.  Just ask my math genius husband). When I applied for this job, I stupidly assumed that I would just create nutritious, yummy lunches for a lot of great kids.

Not so much.

For instance, federal school lunch guidelines have me counting calories for each age group.  That means that if I want to include ketchup as a condiment on hot dog  turkey frank day, I have to figure out portion sizes and make sure I'm within the calorie range for each age group.  I have to serve a certain amount of meat/meat alternative each week, and veggies from several different categories.  Not only that, but there's inspection guidelines to follow, figuring out how much food to cook, and ordering from Food Services of America and making sure I'm not over budget.

I'm not complaining.  It's just been a huge learning curve that I have to admit, I wasn't quite prepared for.

The best part about my job?  Seeing the kids learn and grow through Christ.  We have some of the most prayerful, respectful, and kind students that I've ever met.  I love the days when I can leave the kitchen and sit with them while they eat the lunch that I've prepared and get to know them.  Yesterday, for example, four seventh grade girls taught me a "cup" game and serenaded me.  Then, there was the random hug from my kindergarten buddy, Jett, and the sixth grader who told me I was so "nice and cool".  Every day, when the pre-schoolers come for lunch, I get greetings of "Hi, Mrs. B.!" or "Hi, Murray's Mom!"

I've been blessed to get to know parents, teachers and the amazing faculty and staff.  I've made new friends, and feel lucky to be able to visit the St. Joseph's School environment daily.  Tonight we have our annual school fundraiser, the St Joseph Dinner, Dance, and Auction, which I'm a member of two of the committees.  It's sure to be an evening of camaraderie, laughter and making new memories.

I know I've been gone for a while, but I hope you'll keep checking back.  Stay tuned for more from Murray's Momma.

What God Doesn't Tell You

"What do you want to be when you grow up?" they would ask.

"Oh, a doctor, or a nurse, or a lawyer or a teacher, or maybe a cheerleader," I would respond.

Typical child response, right?  It just goes to show that most of the time, we really aren't sure what God has in mind for us.

Because life happens.  You go through a million jobs (exaggeration) and years of college (and a ton of money) that just aren't the right fit.  Oh yes, there were jobs you loved, like bar tending and serving.  But those are high burn-out jobs, and eventually, you realize that those aren't good career choices in which to start a family.

So you switch paths, and become a secretary or sales/executive assistant.  This works well, because you have a challenging, satisfying job, and enjoy going to work every day.

But then, life happens - again.  Mostly, this time it's the economy.  Three layoffs in eighteen months start to wear on your self esteem, even though those "I'm-gently-letting-you-go-because- we're-eliminating-your-position" type bosses tell you that it has nothing to do with you, it's the damn economy, they say, "but, we'll give you the best references."

And so they do.  And you look around for the next best thing, but you're so discouraged, and frankly, scared to take another leap into the unknown.  After all, you're frustrated.  You don't want to go back to work at a mediocre job that you hate, but your choices are limited because that degree just never worked out. 

So you make your family and friends miserable and confused and wondering about your state of sanity while you sit on the couch eating Cheetos, watching soaps and sleeping too much. 

For two whole years.

But then, you get an inspiration: His name is God.  You wake up one day and decide that enough is enough and decide to volunteer at your son's school.  You find that volunteering is so much fun and you just can't get enough, so you offer more; as much as you can give.

You're finally getting out and about and feeling better.

One day, you walk into your place of volunteerism and discover a job opening.  A dream job, one that you would never have thought of.

So you apply for the job, and you wait.  And you pray.  And you still volunteer, because it really is fun.

You get an interview, and then another.  And still, you wait and you pray.  After all, you really want this for your family, but most of all, for yourself.  Because if you feel better, so will your family.

And then, the call comes.  And you cry happy tears.  And jump for joy, and shout out loud.  And you say, "I'm blessed to accept the position."

Then you don your hair net, gloves, and apron, take a bunch of classes and get certified in food safety.  You don't have to worry about smiling, because you just can't help it when you get to go to work every day. 

And that my friends, is how you find your dream job.  It has everything to do with God.

No day is perfect, but mine come pretty darn close.

One of these days, I'll post a picture.  Hair net and all.

Introducing Easton

Introducing our latest foster, Easton.  Welcome, boy!  This guy is the easiest foster we've had (he's our third); well-mannered, well-trained, and he fit right in from the get go.  Plus, he and Rudy get along famously.

 

 

Easton arrived at our home on Saturday, November 24, 2012. It was a painful, tearful surrender, as his owner is going through major life changes. That said, he settled in beautifully and is one silly, loveable hound!
 

It's clear Easton came from a loving home. When we picked him up, he had toys, treats, grooming tools, and a good quality bag of dog food. We know how much he will be missed, but we know how much he will be loved in a new home.
 

Easton is a five year old, pure bred male Golden Retriever. He's house trained, crated trained (although we haven't set up the crate - he doesn't need it), and loves people, kids, and dogs. He met Rudy without incident, and the two have been playing happily ever since.
 

Easton knows basic commands and loves to sleep in the bed, but also does fine curled up on the floor next to you. He's food oriented, but doesn't need much training. We haven't walked him on the leash yet (we want him micro chipped first, just in case), but he did well when we met him in the parking lot - no tugging. He has no destructive behavior, but has mild storm anxiety, from what I've told - tries to hide under a bed (although we haven't witnessed that yet). He's great when I'm at work, and is super happy to see us when we come home.
 

Easton loves to be brushed and groomed and has this cute head of hair that sticks out on top. He loves to play with toys and tennis balls, but is also happy to snuggle with us while we watch tv or hang out in the living room. His favorite thing is to be petted on his front legs and his behind.
 

We are so thankful to be able to foster this sweet boy.  Welcome to RAGOM, Easton!

 

 

 

Happy Birthday!

Dear Murray,

Happy fifth birthday, little one!  I wanted to write to tell you all about the things that you've accomplished in the last year.

When you were four, you said your name was "Murray Beckerleg Joseph."  This year, you know that it's Murray Joseph Beckerleg.

Last year, you were still at daycare.  This year, you started  kindergarten readiness (full time), and we had your first parent-teacher conferences.  Your teacher told us that if she could have 1,000 kids like you, she would take them all.  All of your other teachers for phys ed, music, and technology reported the same thing.

You have superb manners and show great respect for your friends and elders. 

You can count to 23 without missing a number, and recognize most of the letters in the alphabet.  You even taught me how to play Angry Birds on my phone.

Last year, you couldn't skate without a folding chair to guide you.  Now, you can skate around cones and do basic hockey drills.

You know your address and what city you live in.  We're working on teaching you our phone numbers.

You love the Gopher's and the Vikings (not that Daddy had an influence on you).

You are constantly reminding me that "hate", "stupid", son of a bi***", and "dammit" are not good words to say.  You're patient when I slip, but very worried that I'll say the wrong words.

You are great at reminding me that Jesus is the best, and humbling us.  We love your Catholic education, and we know that you do, too!

Murray, you a sweet, kind, and gentle boy.  Your Daddy and I are so very proud of you, and so very blessed to be your parents.  We will never forget the day, just five years ago, that we left for the hospital as a family of two, and came home as a family of three.  I have to admit, I cried a little today, thinking about how fast you are growing up. 

But they were happy tears, little one, because you bring so much joy to our lives.

Happy birthday!

Beckerleg Family Update and St. Gianna's

I can't believe it's been so long since I've posted.  I was on such a roll for a while, and then that crazy thing called employment happened.  Not to mention a child involved in school.  Why didn't any of you other parents warn us how busy life would get when the kid started school?  I can't imagine how you function with more than one kiddo at your home!

For instance, just today:

I worked, Craig was an election judge, (left home at 5:30 a.m.), Murray had a playdate at our house, an hour later the babysitter arrived, I went back to work for a meeting, then put in some extra work time, met Craig at school for our first ever parent/teacher conferences, we both went to vote, and finally, Craig and I snuck away for an adult beverage (we were home by seven - who can stay out late with all of this activity?).  Tomorrow is hockey practice, Thursday I have handbell choir practice, Friday is the family birthday party for Murray and his cousin, Saturday is Murray's friend birthday party, Sunday is Mass and the Veteran's Day celebration, and then, we start all over.

Granted, we won't have birthdays every week, but the holidays are right around the corner.  Here we go.

*************

Murray's conferences were awesome.  He's proficient in math, journaling, reading, sciecne, art, phy ed, music, and social skills.

*************

My new job is amazing.  This, in day two of being on my own, I love, love, love working at St. Joseph's School.  My days fly by, and I am slowly making my own way.

*************

Craig and I are again collecting donations for the second annual St. Gianna's Maternity Home fundraiser. Can you help?  We (Criag and myself) pay for all shipping costs and are more than happy to drive to pick up donations or pay you for postage if you would like to mail them.  We keep all of your information private and will provide a tax deductible receipt.  Contact us at marie.beckerleg@gmail.com or beckercr@mnstate.edu.  Following are two links; one, to get you to realize our mission, and second, to view their needs:
http://saintgiannahome.org/

http://saintgiannahome.org/needs.htm

This cause is near and dear to our hearts.  We would like to receive donations (including gently used toys and books) by December 15th, so that they'll arrive before Christmas. 

*************

Happy election day!

Peace!

It's True

I went back to work outside the home today.  I know, I know, don't fall over when you read this; it's true.  I really did it.  And I couldn't be happier.

It all began when Murray started school this fall.  I was ever so tired of sitting here at home, twiddling my thumbs.  So, I decided to volunteer at Murray's school, a Catholic school, which Craig and I believe very deeply in.

I immediately fell in love being there each day.  I had a purpose again, and that purpose suited me perfectly (selfish as it sounds); the hours were perfect and so was the work.  I got to help kids in the lunch room, assist the school's administrative assistant, and give basic first aid to the kids in the nurse's office.

One snowy morning about three weeks ago, while driving Murray to school, I offered up special prayers that a position at St. Joseph's Catholic School would open.  God was quick on answering this particular prayer.  As soon as I walked into the cafeteria for my volunteer shift, the current head cook explained that she was leaving for a different job. 

I immediately applied for the head cook position, and impatiently awaited the interview process, knowing in my heart that this was for me.  After all, I love children, I love to cook, and most importantly, I love that Murray spends each day in an environment that cherishes God.  I wanted to be a part of this great community.

Last week, I was offered the job. I accepted.  Thank you, to my dear friends who offered up prayers on my behalf.  You know who you are.

Anyway, today was my first day.  I knew I would love it when I applied, but now, I love it even more.  Yes, I'm sure there will be days that are trying, but that happens with any job.  That said, my soul truly feels fulfilled.  I have waited for this for a very long time. 

How awesome is it to be able to go to church, work, and your kid's school at the same time, all while providing healthy meals for children? 

It's pretty darn awesome.

My Personal Symphony

I'm not usually awake at this hour, but well, here I am.  Wide awake.  Here's why:

I crawled into bed tonight and snuggled in.  The house was cozy and dark, and locked up tight, but still, I couldn't sleep. It was too noisy!

Murray was breathing heavily from his room across the hall, Craig was gently snoring (in my ear and not so gently), and Rudy, well, he was exhausted and groaning with happiness while lying on my feet.  The wind was howling, competing with the roar of the furnace.

So, I drowned out the noise (or tried to) and said my prayers.  And then, it occurred to me.  It might be noisy, but it's my very own symphony.   These are the sounds that my loved ones make, and I couldn't be more grateful.  It's my lullaby. 

Sweet dreams.

My Friend Zoe

Craig travels quite a bit for work.  It didn't take long to learn that it's much cheaper to rent a car than it is to drive our ancient gas-hog Durango around the state of Minnesota.  So, once or twice a month, he rents a car from Enterprise.  It's a great way to test drive all models of cars, and they're usually brand new.  He's gotten to know the rental agent, Zoe, pretty well over the years.

So this morning, he informed me that he had a reservation at Enterprise for 10:00 a.m., and that I should be ready to take him to pick up the car.  Craig is very prompt, so I was surpised when 10:15 rolled around and he wasn't home.  I called his cell and his office, no answer.  10:30 - still no Craig.  I was starting to get worried that we'd lose our reservation, so I called Enterprise to explain the situation.

Me:  Hi, Zoe, this is Marie Beckerleg, Craig's wife?  We were supposed to pick up our car at 10:00,  but I can't find my husband, and frankly, I'm a little worried about him.  Can we still pick it up when I track him down?

Zoe:  Oh, don't worry, Marie.  He called me this morning and said that he had a meeting at 9:30, and wanted to push back the reservation to 11:00.  He's just fine.

Me (laughing sheepishly):  Well, at least you know where he's at.  I guess he forgot about informing his wife of the time change.  I've been waiting for almost an hour.

Zoe (laughing): Glad I could help.  Would you like me to relay any messages when he comes in?

Me:  Yes, please sit him down and explain about communicating with his wife, and not just our rental agent.

Zoe:  You bet I will; I have the same problem with my husband.  Have a good trip!

She gave us this nice Camry:

And some tips on communication as well.

Raise the Flag For Jesus

Murray singing:  "Raise the flag for Jesus, raise the flag for Jesus.  Yayayayaya!  I yuv you, Jesus.  Bwess us our Yourd (Lord) for these the gifts and bounty through Christ your Yourd, name of FatherSonHoweeSpeertAmen."

This, while running around in the back yard yielding his bike flag, screaming about Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. 

I can't complain.  The following conversation ensued:

Murray:  "Mom, did Jesus come down to see us?"

Me:  "Yes, Murray, he sure did.  God sent his only son to save us from our sins; the things that we do that aren't good, and to make us happy."

Murray:  "I know, Mama, Jesus was very hurt, the bad guys were mean, but then God made him better and He come back to us.  God is the best."

Apparently, Catholic school education is paying off.

Snack

When I was in kindergarten, birthdays were a big deal.  But if you had a summer birthday, it meant that you didn't get to wear the birthday crown, be the line leader, or bring special treats from home to share.  Thankfully, I had a pretty awesome teacher, who celebrated our "half" birthdays, for those of us turning another year older when school wasn't in session.  My big day came on January 13th that year, and  I remember being over-the-top excited. My mom made her special homemade blueberry muffins, and I proudly led my class to snack time, and then passed out the coveted treats.

Just as I was sitting down, I leaned over and threw up.  Everywhere.  And then I cried.

My mom picked me up, dried my tears, took me home, and snuggled me into the special sick bed that she always made for us.

I can still feel the disappointment.

Fast forward 20 odd years.  At Murray's school, the kids rotate snack days, so the "summer birthday syndrome" isn't a problem.  Even so, when Murray learned that yesterday was his turn to be the snack guy, he was overcome.  He literally skipped to school, unpacked his "pack pack" (back pack), and smiled proudly when he handed over the pudding cups we had purchased (sadly, due to risk of illness, the days of homemade treats are over.  Everything must be store bought and sealed).

It sounds silly, but to an almost five year old, it was huge. And because I remembered how excited I was at his age, I could completely relate.  Thankfully, he didn't throw up.

Later in the day, during free time, he chose to play dress up (his teacher set up a Shutterfly account; I love that she's documenting the kids' days so parents can see what they're doing). 

I think he should go on a calendar as the cutest fireman ever

When he got home, all he could talk about was how much the kids loved snack that day.  I grinned, feeling his excitement and pride.  Things like this might be small to us big people, but to the little people, it's huge.

Welcome to my first ever "back to school" post.  I'm sure there are a million other mommy blogs covering the topic today, but since it's our first of many school years to come, humor me, please.

I feel like summer just started, but sadly, it's "officially" over.  Some highlights of one of the best summers we've ever had:

When we're at the lake (my Grandparents' beautiful home), from sun up until sun down, fishing is Murray's favorite past time.

 

 

 Coming in at close second though, is swimming and hot tubbing.

Even Rudy gets in on the action.

So, it was with a few tears yesterday, that we left the lake and prepared for Murray's first year of school.  It's silly, I know, but I've never been good at change.  And, though I'm often made fun of for being over-emotional, I can't help but feel a bit sad. 

 Our first ever back to school picture, on the sidewalk in front of our home.

 

 

 And of course, we had to take one at school. Sorry about the glare - I was too nervous to get a different angle.

 

 

Standing by his backpack (or pack pack, as he calls it) and his very own hook.

I tried to get a picture of him sitting at his desk, but I couldn't see through my happy/sad tears and pushed delete by accident.  Oops.

It's a bittersweet time in our lives.  Big changes, but good changes.  Yes, there were tears when Craig and I dropped him off this morning (not only mine, but Murray's, too), but we know without a doubt that we left him in good hands.  I'm excited for him, I really am. Our love for this boy is so deep, so profound, so miraculous.

I can't wait until 2:45 today to hear all about his very first day at "schoo-uh."