Berry Boy #3

Have you heard the joke about the progression of parenthood with each child?

It goes something like this...


First child eats dirt, parent calls doctor.

Second child eats dirt, parent cleans out child's mouth.

Third child eats dirt, parent wonders if she really needs to feed him lunch.


Well, there's a lot of truth to this.  My children are now 9, 6, and 3.  I have gotten less over-protective with each child--knowing the stages that are coming and understanding the importance of independence.  Let's take a look at my parenting progression specifically regarding potty training....

First, I will never forget moms of boys warning me that boys are difficult to potty train and not to expect it before their fourth  birthday.  Oh--well that was a challenge and I was going to take it head on.  Timmy was potty trained before his 3rd birthday even though his little brother was born when Tim was 35 months old (yup--no regression!).  I remember the doctor was even impressed.  SCORE!

When Josh turned 3, I was about to embark on my journey as a stay-at-home mom, so I just KNEW that he would be potty trained that summer.  Danny was born when Josh was 37 months old and if you've followed my blog, potty training Josh was beyond difficult.  I was convinced he would be in diapers in college.  He needed to be potty trained for school and he was good with peeing in the potty, but poop was a different story.  I would pray every day that he could hold it until he got home (if he had to poop).  Josh was finally FULLY potty trained by his 4th birthday.  Jen-1  Expert moms of boys-1

Well, here I am with my third and final child and it's HARD!  When you only have one child--or even two and they're fairly young, it's easy because you're AT HOME.  I'm busy running errands, playing with the boys, out and about--and it is HARD to potty train your child when you are anywhere but home!  Danny has a great babysitter and she started working with him at the end of the school year.  I've dabbled with potty training and especially the last couple of days have been working hard to get him where he should be!

Well....where SHOULD he be?!  Right where he is.  He's a stubborn boy--he knows how to use the potty.  One day, he was in the bathtub and he got out of the tub to poop on the potty.  Then, the next day, he sneaks outside and poops on the patio in our backyard.  He KNOWS what he's doing and he's CHOOSING to be difficult.

Am I worried?  No--I'm really not.  He's my youngest--my baby.  I'll keep working on it, but it boils down to the child doing it when he/she is ready.  He will get there when he's ready--and I'm sure that routine will help him!  If routine is what we're missing (sorry, but I'm not going to make my older kids suffer while I try to potty train my youngest), it looks like he will be fully potty trained after the school year.  I'm okay with that.

My last bit of advice--when expert moms give you advice, listen to them.  They aren't challenging you--they are just sharing their experiences with you.  And finally....I'm fine taking things as they come.  I'm in no hurry for my "baby" to grow up.  He's my last baby.  I want to enjoy all the stages--no matter how horrible or gross they may be!  <3

Addendum

A couple of other interesting things happened yesterday that I forgot to share.  At the end of our dental appointment, the boys had to use the restroom.  One of the difficult things about having boys when they get to this age is the important question, "Do I take them in the restroom with me, or allow them to use the boys restroom."  Timmy is 9 and the answer is obvious--boys room.  Josh is 6 and because his older brother is using the boys room, he doesn't want to use the girls room.  He's also at that age where he understands gender difference and feels like he needs to be with the boys.  Danny is 3 and while the obvious choice is he should go with mommy....do you really think he wanted to go with mommy?  HA!  So....I allowed ALL THREE boys into the boys room (we had to have a key so I felt comfortable knowing that my boys would be the only ones in there).  All three boys used the potty--Timmy helped Danny (he's an amazing, awesome, tremendous big brother) and I couldn't have been more proud.  We've graduated from having a major poopsplosion last year to using the big boy potty this year.  AND--a plus was that I got to use the bathroom ALONE!

Our final stop yesterday was to the animal shelter because Clyde had been missing about two weeks.  I called them and left a message, but hadn't gotten a response so I figured it would be best to drop in.  Sure enough, Clyde was there!  They told me that when a pet is lost, we need to go in every 3-5 days.  I explained that with three children, this is the best I can do.  That being said, ever since Kitten was lost and turned into the shelter, I've tried to keep the cats inside.  With three young children, that's nearly impossible to do.  We have lots of neighborhood friends that come in and play and our house is constantly buzzing with activity--kids going in and out and in and out.  There are LOTS of cats in our neighborhood that go outside even though the HOA stated that cats are not allowed outside (weird since they're animals and have every right to be outside).....and two of my cats have been turned into the animal shelter even though they're taken care of, fed, loved, etc.  Clyde and Kitten have both been chipped and I'll bring Bonnie in August to get a chip placed in hers so this won't happen again!

Whew--what a day.  Looking forward to seeing Grandmom today and hopefully hearing some good news.  Love to all of you!

What a Difference a Year Makes!!!

Those of you who have been following me for quite some time will easily remember last summers trip to the dentist and doctor.  For those of you who can't remember or have no clue, read "The Worst Day Ever."

Well, as if I didn't learn my lesson last year.....  Ha!  I really did, but alas, I had already made the boys their dental appointments and the doctors appointments HAD to be squeezed in.  When I called the pediatrician, they only had September available.  Yes--I called in MAY and they were making appointments for SEPTEMBER.  Luckily, the receptionist was extremely nice and she was able to squeeze in three separate appointments for the boys.  Timmy's appointment was today after all three boys had their dental appointments.

Last year, I made the same schedule (minus Danny since he was only 2).  Danny had a poopsposion at the Dentist office that was quite embarrassing (read above blog post) and the doctors were giving me a hard time saying that Danny should be seen by a Dentist (when all along with me and my two other children....3 was the recommended age).  I was irritated about that and then Danny's poopsplosion put me over the edge.

Well, today was COMPLETELY different.  First, Danny was very interested in what was going on--he got to watch Timmy and Josh both get their teeth cleaned.  Danny wanted to be just like his big brothers and he couldn't wait for his turn in the chair!  The hygenist said that Danny was the best patient of the day!!!

All three of the boys have nice, clean teeth and NO cavities (YES--DOCTORS.....YOU HEARD ME RIGHT.  DID DANNY NEED TO BE SEEN BEFORE HE WAS 3??   NO!).

After the dentist, we were off to the doctor for Timmy's 9 year old well child visit.  Tim is as healthy as a horse--falling in the 75th percentile for weight and height as he always has.  He also has 20/20 vision and his hearing is perfect (so next time he doesn't hear me when I ask him to clean his room, I know that he just wasn't paying attention!).

That brings me to the title of this blog post.....what a difference a year makes!  While I love babies and I would have a million of them if I could, it is SO MUCH EASIER with a 9, 6, and 3 year old.  I am getting excited thinking about Danny being fully potty trained and all the fun excursions we can go on.  It's like a load off my chest!  Last year, I was chasing Danny around the dentist office and this year, he was sitting watching his brothers get their teeth cleaned.  WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES!  I am going to relish in this wonderful moment!!!!

Look at my BIG boy!!!!

Potty training is Berry fun (NOT!)

So....here we are....my "baby" is now 3 and it's time to get down and dirty with the potty training.  With Timmy, it was so easy.  We had him potty trained by his 3rd birthday--even with Josh being an infant.

Josh was more difficult.  My plan was to have him potty trained by 3 as well, but that wasn't what Josh had planned.  Danny arrived when Josh was 37 months old and Josh was NOT ready to use the potty.  This is about the time that I started this blog.  I was worried sick that he was going to be kicked out of preschool, but he wasn't and we managed to have him fully potty trained by the time he was about 3 1/2 years old.

So, Danny.....
We have a WONDERFUL child care provider.  She grew up with several brothers and has two grown daughters of her own.  She is loving and hardworking and she has started helping Danny use the bathroom.  Danny was doing really great at Miss Paula's and we've continued to work on it at home.

One day, Dan was taking a bath and I went to go fold clothes.  I heard him pushing in the bathroom and immediately thought he was pooping in the tub.  When I went in there, I saw him on the toilet going to the bathroom.  I couldn't believe it!!!!

This past weekend, Danny was in his pull up and he was starting to poop.  I grabbed him and said, "Let's poop on the potty!"  He said, "yes--poop on potty!"  This was very unusual because both Tim and Josh would have screamed "NO!"

So--we went to the bathroom and he proceeded to poop on the potty and he looked at me with anticipation.  I cheered and clapped and started singing "Yay!  Poopy Dance!  Yay!  Poopy Dance!"  While I did a silly little dance.  He was highly amused and proceeded to squeeze out yet another turd, so again....I had to do my silly poopy dance.  Well, he continued to squeeze out turds--I swear he was so amused by my poopy dance and song that he was savoring every moment--really making the poop last as long as possible so he could get his mom to look super silly as much as possible.

When that ended (about 30 minutes later)....we had an exhausted "poopy-danced-out" mommy and a very proud, happy little boy....who proceeded to run around the house asking me to pinch his butt.  :-)

Teaching College Level Music Theory

Sometimes....it's hard to get kids excited about Music Theory.  I have difficulty understanding this because theory was one of my all time favorite classes.  To have the ability to take a piece of music apart piece by piece....I just think it's incredible!

I was excited to see that TJ uses the Theory book we used at Elon (Benward's "Music in Theory and Practice" for those of you theory nerds).  I've seen quite a few theory books and I think this one is top notch.  It starts with basic notation, intervals, chords, and then cadences/non-harmonic tones.  For me, the class really starts to take shape when you get to cadences and non-harmonic tones.

So, after introducing different cadences and non-harmonic tones to my students, I walked them through an example.  It was most likely an excerpt from a Bach Chorale that we analyzed and had to name the non-harmonic tones and cadences.  I'm getting really excited because it is so cool that we are able to take Bach's music apart piece by piece by piece!  As I'm explaining this excitement, it's obvious that my students are not sharing in my special moment.

What do you do when your students are giving you the "deer in headlights" stare?  Well, I always try to make an analogy to help them understand how something could be so amazing.  I find that food works best and I usually go with the first thing that comes to mind (it's usually odd and catches the kids by surprise).  I decide to compare music theory to steak fajitas.  See....steak fajitas are amazing...they taste wonderful and they're oh so flavorful....but how cool is it when you open up that tortilla and you see what goes in to making that perfect flavor?  You have the tortilla, the steak, the guacamole (which is made up of avocado, onion, and lime juice), red bell pepper, and green bell pepper.  Perhaps steak is okay on its own, but add it with the tortilla, guac, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper and you have something very special.

After that analogy, they think I'm completely nuts.  It's okay, though.  I hope that one day they'll realize how cool music theory is.  It just might take them a little more time.  ;-)

The Only Thing Worse Than Puke...

As many of you know, we have always had difficulty with Danny when it comes to bed time.  No matter what, he always ends up in bed with us--usually around 1 a.m.  Well, since Scot has been gone, I've been really lenient with Dan's sleeping arrangement and I just allow him to sleep in my bed (whatever--don't judge).  Well, all has been going fine until this morning.  At 4:00 a.m., I hear a strange noise and wake up to find Danny throwing up all over himself and the bed.  I quickly sit him up and put a bowl in front of him and catch the remaining puke.  Phew.  Then, I throw him in the tub because he's covered in barf.  After he's clean, I sit him on the floor in a pull-up and a towel while I strip the bed and remake it.

What could be worse than having this surprise wake-up call?

...Looking over to see your cat licking up the remaining puke from the puke bowl.  My stomach has been turning ALL DAY with the image.

Again--I couldn't make up these stories if I tried.  What next adventure will the Berry Boys have?  Hopefully the next one is less gross....

Working Mom's Lament

Once upon a time, I wanted to stay-at-home with the boys to have more quality time with them, allow them the opportunity to sleep past 5:30 a.m., and allow myself the opportunity to volunteer at their school.  These were things my mom did with me and I hoped to one day be able to do them with my children.  While I was able to stay at home with the boys for a year, I feel as though it was not enough.  Now that we are back in the swing of school/work, Tim and Josh are both in elementary school and some days I feel as though my head is going to explode.  I miss waking up with my boys and making them lunch.  I miss walking them to school.  I miss being put together.

The grass is always greener on the other side.  It ALWAYS is.  When I was home with the boys, I missed teaching and completely lost myself.  I've always been "Sassy Berry," the teacher.  Being a stay-at-home mom was a new role--one that I'm not sure I adapted to very well.  That being said, it's overwhelming being a working mom and while I KNOW that being a stay-at-home mom is NEVER easy, some days I just wish that I was home with my boys.

I feel like I'm letting my children down--like I'm not the best mom that I can be.  Why?  Because I come home from work and I'm exhausted.  It's all I can do to get them to do their homework and get dinner on the table.  Yesterday, I made myself take them to the park--they biked and I pushed Danny in the stroller.  I had cleaning and laundry I needed to do, but I knew it was more important to spend good, quality time with my boys.

I'm trying to let things go--like the cleanliness of the house, but it's hard.  I want to spend time with my boys, but I also have a house to run.  It is what it is.  I am thankful that I have a job with the shortage of music jobs/programs in the county and state....I am thankful to have three beautiful boys.  I must keep swimming.  You do what you have to do to keep the family going.  We need a house, food, clothes....and I must provide for my family.  The glass is half full...  Just keep swimming...  I think I can, I think I can.....

Craziest. Day. Ever.

What mom schedules TWO well child checkups at 8:20 followed by TWO dentist appointments at 9:30?  THIS MOM!  What am I--crazy?  YUP.

So, today started off with the Berry boys headed for an adventure to the doctor and dentist.  The doctor appointments were for Tim's 8 year check up and Danny's 2 year check up.  While both are doing fine, growing well, and developmentally great, Danny was getting very antsy.  The office was very hot, so I was sweating like a crazy person.  Then, I couldn't remember if we had well water or city water.....and I couldn't remember if Danny had his one year blood work done.  (BEST.  MOM.  EVER.).  Anyway, turns out we have CITY water, which means we have fluoride and don't need fluoride supplements.  And according to the doctor, Danny never did have his 1 year blood work done, so I guess I'll be taking care of that later this week.  Again--BEST.  MOM.  EVER.

So, we finish up at the doctors and head to the dentists.  Tim and Josh both have cavities that need to be filled.  The visit starts off well--both boys were complete troopers.  Danny decided to let out his inner demon (honestly--the kid could put a 35 year old opera singer to shame).  They had to close the door because Danny was being so loud (and at this point, I'm super embarrassed).

Both boys finish up and we have to wait to be called to check out.  Tick. Tock.  Tick.  Tock.  Yup--we finish up at 10:20 and it's 10:45.  We should have been checked out by now.  Danny decides to poop.  Great.  He comes to sit down next to me and OH.  MY.  GOSH.  There is a LOG hanging out of his diaper!!!!  There is now POOP on the chair!  This frazzled, embarrassed mom just became completely mortified.  I had to ask the office staff if there was something I could use to clean up the poop.  They said they'd clean it up, but I did say that I didn't mind.  I asked for a bathroom key and proceed to swing Danny over my arm, grab a diaper, and head for the bathroom.  I get in the bathroom, strip him down--there's poop all over his clothes (yuck).  I have to use the trash can that's used for paper towels that people dry their hands with because I have no other options.  I'm literally bathing him with paper towels to clean up his mess. In this smelly, yucky process, someone walks in.  I apologize.  I keep cleaning him up.  Finally, he's clean and I put on his diaper and shoes.

Who doesn't bring a change of clothes for her 2 year old?  THIS MOM!  So....Danny goes back in the waiting room with his diaper and shoes on.  We get lots of stares.  I'm mortified.  I apologize profusely for the poop explosion, but that doesn't make me feel less mortified.  Finally, it's 11:00.  They apologize to us for misplacing our files (after Timmy had been called back TWICE more even though he'd already been seen), they gave the boys another popsickle, and we went on our merry way.

Phew.  I am so blessed to have three, beautiful, healthy boys.....but I really hope I don't have another day like today any day soon (that's a lot of days).

Life Since March

Wow!  What a crazy 3 months it has been.  Scot started a job in April working for the Department of Energy and he loves his new job.  I finished up the year at TJ and am looking forward to taking part in a Curriculum workshop in July in which we will solidify our Theory and Music History curriculum--to make sure that the curriculum works best for the kids and provides them with a smooth transition from Theory I to Theory II, etc.

Josh finished up his final year in Pre-K and was absolutely adorable in his graduation ceremony.  Timmy finished up 2nd grade and was excited to learn that his 2nd grade teacher will also be his 3rd grade teacher.  Danny....well, he keeps us busy.  He turned 2 the same day Tim turned 8 (May 26th) and he's a funny, sweet, adventurous little boy.

We had the pleasure of filing our 2012 taxes and found out that last year, we only brought in $33,000.  For a family of 5, this is nearly impossible to live off of.  At the time, I was scrambling wondering what we were doing wrong as a family and why we weren't able to pay our bills.  When your mortgage is about $30,000 for the year, it's impossible to live off of $3,000.  For the first time in my life, we were unable to pay the credit card balance off each month and racked up quite a bill.  2013 started with us unable to pay our mortgage, but we were approved for a loan modification (thank the Lord)!

Our time in need was a very eye opening experience.  We received numerous notes, gift cards, love, and prayers from family and friends.  A dear friend had groceries delivered to our house and others sent us gift cards to Walmart and Target--these were able to get us through difficult weeks and we were able to eat things other than pasta.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Before our financial situation, I would have been the first to have been disgusted by someone having a SmartPhone while struggling to pay their bills.  While dealing with our struggles, I found that the cancellation fee alone we wouldn't have been able to afford--not to mention the need for email and Internet so you search for a job and respond to job inquiries.  The biggest lesson I learned was really not to judge others because you have no idea what they're going through.

While I wouldn't wish our situation on anyone, it was very humbling and eyeopening.  It brought us closer as a family and I honestly think Scot's new job is much less stressful and better for him.  He has Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday off and our summer is going to be AMAZING!

Special thanks again to our friends and family who are always there for us through thick and thin--and who put up with me even if I'm just plain nasty (because I'm super stressed out).  We love you!  xoxo

Joshisms

Joshua is quite possibly the funniest 4 year old I know.  The other day, he and I were having a conversation in the bathroom and he was doing the "pee-pee" dance.  I asked if he needed to go to the bathroom, and he replied, "no."  He quickly changed his mind and asked if he could use our bathroom--"of course", I said!  He proceeded to pee, but had two pretty big sneezes (and of course, a boy standing up who sneezes doesn't quite have control over the stream of urine).  He then exclaims, "the bleshooo's made the poop come out of me!" and he had to turn around real fast to poop in the potty.  Ah........Joshisms.  Gotta love 'em.

So--a quick update with a disclaimer:

Don't ever assume my blog is about you.  I'm not stupid enough to write my blog about a specific person I am friends with on facebook and then SHARE it on facebook.  

Update #1:  I learned quickly with Berry Boy #2 that each baby/child is different.  Danny has no fear.  He will RUN away from me and laughs because he thinks it's funny.  I finally broke down and got a child harness/leash.  It's a safety issue.  I honestly could care less about the looks/stares I get--if it means my child is safe and can NOT run away from me, so be it.  

Update #2:  Danny is continuing to have night terrors and is up 2-3 times a night.  If anything, I feel so bad for what I put my parents through the first 12 years of my life.  Our bed has become the communal family spot (don't judge--it is what it is).  We're hoping and praying that Danny becomes a better sleeper, but for now....we have to do what works for us.  And yes, that is also Josh in the picture.  :-/  

Update #3:  I can't believe that Timmy will be 8 and Daniel will be 2 on May 26th.  It seems like just yesterday Tim was born.  Every once in a while, I'll come across an old picture of Tim and can't believe how much Danny looks like him.  With that being said, Danny makes the same goofy faces I do!

I hope that all of you are doing well.  We have been blessed with love and support from friends and family as we continue to struggle with making ends meet.  God is good and Scot should be starting his new job soon.  Please know that all the notes and prayers have not gone unnoticed.  Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!

And the Mom of the Year Award goes to......

One of my most feel-good memories of childhood is sitting by the fire and my mom blow-drying my hair.  BEST.  FEELING.  EVER.  I've always loved when people play with my hair and even pay my children to do it now.  Yes--I pay my children to play with my hair.  I also fall asleep when my hair dresser cuts my hair and blows it dry.  :-)  That, of course, is probably because it's the longest I ever sit still anymore.  Anyway, I digress.....this memory popped into my head and I thought--why not do this with my boys?  It's so cold it will be nice to blow dry their hair for them after their bath.

Josh (my 4 year old) is hilarious because he's very particular about his hair.  He wants his hair "flat."  Well, as I'm blowing his hair dry--I am reminded that he needs a hair cut (wait--I'm reminded every time I look at him that he needs a freaking hair cut), so I pull out my scissors and begin to play hair dresser.  Ahhh--a child's dream....the ability to have a "client" in front of you and the ability to be the hairdresser and actually cut the "clients" hair.  Okay--maybe I was have a little too much fun living out a childhood memory.  Anyway, I snip a little around the ears--just a little trim.  Then, I realize...I've given my child a mullet.  WHAT?!  I've actually cut my child's hair and now he has a MULLET!  Okay--calm down...time to fix this....cut a little here....cut a little there......  Well.....it was fun while it lasted,  We now have a 4 year old with a 1970's "bowl" cut.  Yup.  Mom of the year award.  Josh runs to look in the mirror and screams, "YOU LIED TO ME!  I LOOK LIKE DANNY NOW!"  I assure him that he does not.....and what do I do.....I proceed to cut Timmy's hair.  Not only do I get the Mom of the Year Award, but I also get Idiot of the Year Award.

So now, my family looks like we belong in That 70's Show....but not in a good way.  We need to fix their hair tonight or they won't hear the end of it at school.  Ugh--and I was trying to do a good thing.

Oh--and I refuse to take pictures to document this event.  Poor boys!  :-(

Note to self:  No more playing hairdresser.  Blow-drying hair is fine, but no scissors for mommy.

Life's Too Short...

This has been a difficult month for many people.  A friend of mine lost her father suddenly, a local family in Myersville lost two of their daughters in a house fire, one of my friends had a miscarriage, and a very dear friend's brother is in the hospital in a coma from a horrible skiing accident.

Moments like these remind me of my reasoning for wanting to be a Stay-At-Home-Mom.  Life is too short.  You need to cherish every moment you have with your family and your little ones because it can be taken from you in an instant.

That being said, we are embarking on the busiest time of year for musicians.  As the Arts and Communications Academy puts finishing touches on Sweeney Todd, we are having massive evening rehearsals.  We just started the audition process for the TJ Musical, Young Frankenstein.  The ACA (Arts and Communcations Academy) will also have three weekends of auditions (basically college auditions---in which students have applied to the academy and must audition for acceptance....or denial for our Music Magnet).  While I love my job, I am torn with all of these tragic events and the realization that I am missing precious moments with my beautiful family.

Some really amazing opportunities have been presented in my professional world.  Our Academy has currently been asked to pilot a new technological program (very fun, exciting, and NEW!).  I have also been asked to be interviewed by my alma mater, Elon University.  They are putting together a video and have asked about a dozen people to be included.  I am SO honored to be given this amazing opportunity!  Honored and humbled!

My point is that even with my recent blog posts just complaining about why people do things the way they do...I've been humbled because life is too short.  Let people do things THEIR way--it's THEIR life.  I will continue to do things my way--my good, ole' practical self.  But please--don't complain about the petty things in life.  Life's too short.  <3

***Special prayers the the above mentioned friends that are dealing with incredibly difficult hardships.  I love you all and think about you and pray for you daily***

***Also, please know that I am praying for those that keep their hardships to themselves.  I, too, do this, but please know that I feel your pain and I love you and pray for you as well.***

Eat Clean Challenge: Day 1

It's no secret that I've had difficulty (lack of control) in losing weight after giving birth to Danny.  I suppose it's a mixture of the lack of sleep, change in schedule (being a stay-at-home mom for a year), and just plain laziness.  I was excited when a friend of mine posted a 30 day challenge--to eat cleanly with the help of Arbonne products.  I had already purchased the protein powder and fiber boost and have plenty of it.  I decided to try the fizzys (they're a great, natural alternative to soda), detox tea, 7 day detox, detox bath soak, and the metabolism boost.  After Christmas, I made it a point to hop on the elliptical for 25 minutes a day.  That kind of went south last week when I jumped back into work and had All County rehearsal among other crazy things.  I had a great weekend, though and managed to get back on board.  Now, here's hoping I can keep it up and lose 20 pounds!!!

With that being said, I had an egg white veggie sandwich for breakfast and a large diet coke (I know, but I have to have a treat somewhere).

To hold off the hunger and soda cravings, I had 2 fizzy sticks.

Lunch included a chocolate protein shake.

YUM!

And for dinner, I'm making a lovely vegetable soup including many colors of the rainbow:  Yellow-Onion, Green-Cabbage, Orange-Carrot, Red-Bell Pepper.  Okay, I'm missing blue and purple.  Sue me.

I'm a firm believer that the more colorful the meal is, the better it is for you.
 That's what I say and that's what I'll stick to!

Day 1:  Success so far!  I still have to get on the elliptical.  I just hope I can keep my energy up to do so!!!!!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

While November and December are certainly considered to be The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, it is also the BUSIEST time of the year--especially for those of us involved in the world of music.  Shortly after the last time I posted, I was busy getting ready for Thanksgiving.  Then, one of our TJ Theatre Classes performed The Little Mermaid.  Shortly after that, TJ had adjudication, two holiday gigs at Holly Hills Country Club in Ijamsville, MD followed by a Winter Choral Concert and Sweeney Todd Auditions.  Phew!

Sweeney Todd will be performed at TJ in CONCERT on March 1st and 2nd, 2013

While this is a busy time of year and I'm not with my awesome boys as much as I'd like to be, I really do like being back in the swing of teaching and singing and concerts.  Although we had our October showcase, this was my first Winter concert back as a teacher and I have to say that I absolutely loved it.  This concert may have even been more meaningful than concerts in the past because of the heart and soul I've poured into the preparation.  Having a class that is 25% low level students (yes, 25% of my students have mental retardation of some form--whether it is mild or moderate) has required me to open my eyes, learn new teaching techniques, and ask for help!!!  I fully admit that I was VERY nervous in the beginning of the year and there were times where it seemed as though we wouldn't be able to pull it together.....but we did!  The students worked hard and received three 2's (a score of excellent) and a 1 (score of superior) in sightreading.  They also performed very well at the winter concerts and the father of my student with autism came and had a nice conversation with me.  It was humbling to hear that this student is fond of my class and it really melted my heart.

The Advanced Music Studies students continue to amaze me.  In Theory I, we've already completed chords and are almost finished with chords and non-harmonic tones.  The piano students are also coming along having learned their C, G, D, and F Major scales as well as many songs.  In our Literature class, students are researching Requiems and performing a movement from their chosen Requiem.  Our Chamber class has been consumed with carols for our caroling gigs as well as adjudication.  When we get back from winter break, we will be jumping into Sweeney Todd.

Finally, Pam and I got to spend some time together this past Saturday as we finished up our gift for our dad. Dad has always been tough to buy for, so we really thought about getting him something special.  Dad loves music and growing up, we were exposed to the classics.  Dad taught us the ins and outs of Rock and Roll.  We even had a Fisher Price Record Player and we'd jam out to the Monkees.  My childhood friend and I used to write letters to Davy all the time.  :-)  Anyway, growing up around music and always hearing Dad talk about "The Day the Music Died" (Yup--February 3, 1959--the day that Buddy Holly, the Big Bopper, etc. died), how could Pam and I not grow up to appreciate music?  And here I am, a High School Music teacher....and not a day goes by that I don't thank Dad for the gift of music.  Pam and I decided to record a couple of his favorite songs.  We made a CD for him.  :-)  

Merry Christmas to you and your family from all of the Berrys.  :-)

Mama Berry

We had our first ACA (Academy of Communications and Art) Showcase that featured our advanced artists, musicians, and theater students on Tuesday, October 23.  We opened our gallery at 6:30 and the concert started at 7.  It was a great experience and I am so proud to be a part of the AMS (Advanced Music Studies Program) at TJ High School and with FCPS.

Here's a clip of a song we sang for the showcase.  It's called "Famine Song" sung by the group VIDA.  This was about a week or two after we started working on it.

Speaking of FCPS....there are SO MANY differences between Frederick County and Montgomery County.  Here are a couple of lessons I've learned along the way:
#1: Festival does not exist.  FCPS calls it "ADJUDICATION"....and they're the only county that does....  (weird)
 #2: It is NOT the PONY....it is "Inner-County Courier Mail"  WHY DOES EVERYTHING HAVE TO BE SO FANCY?!?!

 My students decided that I (Momma Berry) could be described by various berries.  Each berry represents a different mood.  Mood#1: Black Berry--this is "back to my roots" (hence, my ghetto side).  Today, we bought the kids breakfast since it was the day after the concert and I was reciting some Snoop Dogg song and one of my students said, "You're being a black berry!"  :-)  Mood#2: blueberry--this is my sullen mood (although I don't think I'm ever sullen).  Mood #3: Cranberry--this is my sassy mood.  I'm sassy most of the time.  Mood#4: Strawberry--this is my "momma-like" mood.  I'm probably like this most of the time because of my maternal instinct.  :-)  Mood#4: Dingle-berry--this is for when I'm in a bad mood (I don't think I have been....)

A picture of me at DHS--clearly a Black Berry here

 I can't tell you how much Tim enjoys his Young Rembrandt class.  This is his latest project:  A Spider.  :-)

 

Finally, I've been looking at pictures of us and pictures of our boys.  Who do the boys look like?

A "Berry" Good Update :-)

The Berry family has been very busy this fall.  With Scot tying up loose ends with the business as he closes that down and me trying to get into the swing of being a working mom again, we have been SWAMPED!  I am enjoying my new teaching position at TJ High School.  One of my students said, "Mrs. Berry--you're always so happy.  It always seems like you're in the mood to teach."  She's right! 

In April, I became a consultant for a new business called Jamberry (Yes, I'm Jen Berry with Jamberry nails--it's too perfect).  I've been building my team (We are up to 10!!!) and I've been scheduling nail parties (online, catalog, and in-home) to try to compensate for the loss of income.  I recently started ANOTHER consulting adventure with 31 Gifts.  Please--if you know anyone who would be interested in ordering either of these products, please pass my info on.  www.jenniferberry.jamberrynails.net or www.mythirtyone.com/jberry

With that being said, here's an update from the Berry Boys:

Scot is staying busy closing up shop.  He's interested in getting work as a linesman, but may have to go to school for two years to do that.  We're excited for his new adventure and working on finding out information.  I will keep you updated!

Tim's Flowers

Tim's Turtle

Timmy is enjoying 2nd grade.  He has a male teacher and as always, Math and Art are his favorite classes.  He still struggles with reading, but he's been improving (although it's like pulling teeth.  Scot and I didn't think about this before we had kids.  Both he and I are Math people--NOT English...so it's only natural that our kids are beasts at Math and hate reading/English!).  Tim is enrolled in a Young Rembrandts Class where he gets an extra art lesson every Wednesday after school.  He's a pretty good artist (and he doesn't get that from me!)



Josh is enjoying Preschool.  He has the same two teachers he had last year and is even in the same room, so his transition has been very easy.  He has to make all new friends, though because his friends are in different classes!  I can't believe he's going to be in Kindergarten next year.






Danny is a very curious and busy 1 year old.  He has a set of lungs like you wouldn't believe (he gets that from me) and when he's unhappy or wants something, he's sure to tell you about it!  He is like is older brothers in that he can't sit still and he's getting his molars, so life has been a bit hectic/crazy for this little guy.  He's enjoying all the time he gets with Daddy and he's a big snuggle bug.  He recently started talking and loves saying "Ta Da," "bye, bye" "Go, go!" "diaper," and "please."  :-)



All-in-all, we can't complain too much.  We're enjoying the beginning of this new chapter as Scot changes occupations and as I continue my teaching that I'm insanely passionate about.  Updates will continue to come, but I may be slower than usual as I try to balance work and home.  <3

TJ High School--Tour of the Music Department

 I want to share with you a little tour of the TJ High School Music wing.  Enjoy!!!!!

My home: The Choral Room :-)

This is one of our hallway practice rooms

Piano room with about 5 pianos.

This is another hallway practice room that is used as a recording studio for our Music Technology kids.

This is our band uniform room.  LOTS of storage!!!!

This is our Piano Lab.  We have over 20 pianos in this room.

This is a sound proof practice room located in the Piano Lab.

Music Library--houses all the music for Band, Chorus, and Orchestra

Music Technology Lab.  this Lab houses 20 Pianos and 20 Computers loaded with Finale.  :-)

There is also a band room, office, and another classroom where Music Theory is taught.  I still need to take pictures of our auditorium.  :-)

Feeling Myself

I must start by saying how grateful I am to my husband for making it possible for me to stay at home with our three beautiful boys for an entire year.  Staying at home enabled me to spend more time with our boys and it also allowed me to learn how to use a sewing machine, how to can various fruits and vegetables, how to crochet (probably my FAVORITE hobby now!), and I was fortunate to meet some amazing women and their children at Church of the Brethren Learning Center (where Josh goes to preschool).  This wouldn't have been possible if I hadn't had the opportunity to stay home.  I am truly blessed to have had a year full of all of these wonderful things.

With that being said......even with all of the wonderful experiences and all the extra time I had with my boys, I felt lost.  I didn't feel like myself.  I felt as though something in my life was missing.

Now that I'm back in school teaching, I know EXACTLY what was missing from my life.  I must have been meant to be a teacher- because I feel whole....I've found myself again.  :-)

The Arts and Communications Academy is the "big picture."  A part of the ACA is the Advanced Music Studies program (AMS) in which I am the vocal music teacher.  Students must complete a rigorous audition including two contrasting pieces of music and a face-to face interview.  When they are in the program, they are required to take Music Theory, Aural Skills, Piano, Music History, and Chamber Choir (or Chamber Ensemble).

This week, we have given students a Music Theory test to determine the level they should be placed in.  We also administered a piano survey to determine their proper piano class.  The remainder of the week has been spent on Copland's book, What to Listen for in Music.  I was asked to teach a lesson on harmony and tone color, so I brought in (my favorite): Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition,to assist me. 

Very soon, I hope to share with you a "tour" of our Music wing.  I just need to get the pictures first.  :-)  I also have to share that I told my AMS students about my favorite nicknames that my Damascus kids gave me--"Sassy Berry" and "Mama Bear."  On the way out on that first day, one of them said, "See ya tomorrow, Mama Bear."  It brought a smile to my face!!!!  :-)

Back to School.....

Being that my blog title comes from one of my favorite movies of all time, Billy Madison, I feel it is only appropriate to begin this post with a song from the same movie:

"Back to school.  Back to school, to prove to Dad that I'm not a fool.  I got my lunch packed up, my boots tied tight, I hope I don't get in a fight. Ohhhhhh, back to school.  Back to school.  Back to school."

If you haven't heard by now (or figured it out by the title of this blog or the above song), I am the proud new choral director at Governor Thomas Johnson High School in Frederick, MD.  I will be working in a school that has the Arts and Communications Academy of Frederick County.  Music students in this academy are required to take Music History, Music Theory, Aural Skills, Piano, and an ensemble.  I am very fortunate to be teaching in a school with such an amazing program and I look forward to the challenges I will have in the upcoming years at TJ!

Governor Thomas Johnson High School

Due to my new job, there will be some changes in our family dynamics.  Scot will become "Mr. Mom."  Yes, Scot will be staying home with the boys, schlepping them to and from school, and doing laundry and various other things around the house.  There is no doubt in my mind that Scot will be phenomenal in his new role.  This is a temporary change until he completely liquidates his business and finds a job elsewhere.  :-)

Michael Keaton in "Mr. Mom"

We have several things to do before I begin work on Monday.  I will attend New Teacher Orientation, so I start before the other FCPS teachers.  I also have a TON of teaching materials in my attic that I have to transport over to TJ.  I panicked the other day because I couldn't picture where my cows or my "dead dudes" (pictures of many famous composers) are.  As long as I have those, I'll be good to go.

Please pray for us as we embark on our new journey.  I can only hope and pray that we are able to make ends meet with such a low amount of income coming in.  Pray that Scot quickly finds a job and pray that the boys handle the change well.  :-)


I hope you are enjoying the remainder of your summer and thanks in advance for any prayers or positive thoughts you send our way!  xoxo

To Sleep...or Not to Sleep...

Let me get this out of the way:  I HATE, HATE, HATE when new moms complain about the lack of sleep and the "fog" they've been living in.  I want to strangle them and say, "THAT'S WHAT YOU SIGNED UP FOR!  SHUT UP!!!"  Hearing their complaints REALLY makes my blood boil...especially now that I've spent the last 13 months of my life with little to no sleep.  Four hours of uninterrupted sleep would be AMAZING...so SHUT UP, new moms!

I'm jealous, angry, upset...you name it, that's me.  I rarely complain (or I try not to) because it's what I signed up for.  I'm the one that wanted to have three children.  My third child wakes anywhere froom 2-8 times at night.  This is what being a parent is, right?  I have to grin and bear it...and I do, for the most part.  I recently started letting the world know of Daniel's sleep problems when my friends with newborns would either complain about the lack of sleep or rejoice for their new baby only waking up once.  ONCE?!  Your baby is 8 weeks old and only woke up ONCE?!  Okay...I admit I am completely and utterly jealous.  SO...seeing this on facebook would put me into a rage and I would HAVE to comment to let them know how LUCKY they were that they got 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep since Danny was up at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30, and up for good at 5:30.

I'm not sure what Danny's issue is.  I've ready every book under the sun.  I've taken advice from other moms.  I've tried EVERYTHING.  The only thing I can think of is he is having night terrors and there is really little to nothing I can do to help.  This is an issue I had as a child and my mother often reminds me that she did not sleep through the night until I was 8 years old.  All I have to say is, "thank you, mom....thank you for loving me even through the sleepless nights."  I do know that this will pass and one day, when he's a teenager, I'll miss our snuggle sessions on the glider.

So...for those of you without children, or with children that sleep, ENJOY it.  Sleep some for me.  Those of you with newborns....SHUSH.  You have NO clue.  Just be happy your child wakes up every 2 hours.  :-P

Sleep--it's what I want