Goofy girl!

Oh My Heck!

Summer vacation with my little people hasn't been awesome thus far. It's not like anything has really gone wrong, it's just that there has been mucho bickering and in-fighting, and I don't have the energy to re-direct, so I just end up crabby and snappy instead.
It isn't often I feel overwhelmed by the group of the kids. I feel like four is a good number and they are different people, that need different things at different times, so I can keep most balls in the air. However, I have to admit I am completely broken-down by whining or tattling. And appearantly I am feeding into it just enough to keep things border-line miserable.
Mr. Workin' feels like I am crabby too often, but I find he short and snappy after a few hours behind the parenting wheel as well.
Just a quick vent. This too shall pass. I am working at bringing in a little "mama-helper" help to get some breaks.
Just, pray for me. Pray for the kiddos. I will pray to be able to let myself be helped.

My Super Girly Five Year Old

Oh Ella...I am stunned that you are five! You have been here for FIVE years. We celebrated your birthday for two days this year. I was worried you would find the actual day a bit lack-luster, but Greatgrandma Barb saved the day with a package of LalaLoopsys in the mail.
The second day we had the big blow-out delicious birthday party for 20 of your closest friends. We have a family rule that you only have a birthday party every other year, and if you have a kid party, you don't get a birthday gift from mom and dad. It all just gets to be so much. You are indulged children to begin with. I am proud of how you handled all the attention and gifts...always kind and grateful. :) Your kindness shines through most at times like that.
I love you my sweet girl. I am so proud of what a kind and generous girl you are becoming.
25 Ella Facts @ Five Years
You like having short hair and ask to have it cut often.
You are eating so much more and so many things.
You are the least picky eater of the family.
Bread is your favorite part of any burger or sandwich.
You finally are asking for water instead of juice, although juice is preferred.
You are quick to apologize if you think it's needed, but if not cry easily.
You and Fara are the best of friends.
You like to have "hair-pretties".
You are the first up in the mornings, and like a snack first thing.
You weigh 31 pounds.
You and Fara play "mama and sweetie" with your baby dolls.
You are a show-off in front of Wy's friends.
Disney channel shows are your favorite.
You are a snuggle bug and Daddy is your favorite.
You are great at cleaning up, and know just where everything goes.
Being on the go with Mama is very important to you.
You hate to be told on and panic when you know you are in the wrong. You are often the rule keeper, but aren't above fibbing if you find yourself in a tight spot.
You must dress yourself, but still let me pick-out your clothes.
You like "potty talk" and for a girly girl, you are quick to use it.
You like kitties and dream of a time when you can have a real one.
You have been working on earning a bike for months (by not crying).
Crying is your weakness.
You have to potty during every meal (STILL, this has been true for YEARS!).
Your hair is thick and beautiful.
You will always be my sweet princess girl.

Happiest of Birthdays!