New Chapters

Boy it has been so long since I have written a post. I thought I was going to be this great blogger and then.....life happened. As my children get older my life seems to get increasingly busier!!

I am starting a new chapter of my life. For so long I have devoted myself entirely to my husband and to my children all eleven of them. I have finally realized though that I am doing them all a disservice by not devoting some of my time to myself. It is easy to get caught up in the day to day tasks like, housework, never ending laundry, homework, home maintenance, cooking, paying bills, fulfilling church callings.....and the list goes on. As of late though I have found myself reflecting on who I am and who it is I dreamed I wanted to be. I am not perfect but I do love my children and husband more than anything. What I dream of is to be a woman of God, to let his radiance shine through me and my actions. A woman who can find balance in the many good things of life. A woman who teaches her children by example how to be healthy, physically, mentally, and spiritually. So having said that......here is my new journey:

I am making some goals for myself this year.

I am committing myself to be more prayerful in all things. To reflect on the many things I have to be grateful for, and share my gratitude. I am committing myself to find a healthier way of eating and to share that knowledge with my children, and my family and friends. I am committing myself to acknowledge those things I have no control over and accept that. And I am committing myself to seek the good in everyone and remember that we are all God's children and that we deserve to be treated kindly.

A lot of changes are happening in my family this year (good ones) and I want to be able to fully participate in those wonderful things and still find time to take care of myself.

I am so blessed to know that I am loved and supported by so many family and dear friends. So here goes..2014;....here I come!!

Back to School Blues

So.....even up until yesterday I was so ready and excited for school to start. The boys have been fighting nonstop all summer and I have been ready for peace and quiet. This morning we got up and everyone excitedly got ready, we piled into the car and headed for school. When we got there the school had a huge banner welcoming the kids back. The principal had red tape across the entry and used a pair of scissors to make a grand entrance for all! As the kids walked in the school the teachers were standing on the sidelines cheering the students as if it was a red carpet event and the kids were rock stars. ; )

First we went to Taysen's class, he is in first grade this year. He promptly unloaded his backpack and put his supplies away. I gave him a hug and kiss and he looked at me like, "mom stop you're embarrassing me." (sad)

Then on to Tate's class and he got a teacher a few of our other kids have had and we love her. She welcomed him with a big smile and said, "I am so lucky to get another Nieman." She will feel lucky to get him, he is quiet and does not like trouble at all.

Last we went to Trey's class another teacher a few Nieman's have had. She is amazing and I know this year will be a great year for him. His last year at elementary school, then on to bigger things.

We are so blessed to be in the school we are. Our kids have gone there since it opened 16 years ago.

So as I left the school with my two year old, I felt a little wave of sadness hit me......as excited as I thought I was for peace and quiet, a part of me will miss the chaos and noise. Funny how you think you want something so bad and when you get it, you kind of miss what you had. So excited yes, for a clean house...and some quiet......Sad, yes......spending time with my boys and daughter all day.

But....most of all....grateful to have wonderful schools with wonderful teachers who bless not only our children's lives but ours as well!!

Wait....You have how many children???

Having a large family is often interesting and funny. Over the years I have had people make comments (mostly positive), stare, count heads, etc. When my older children were smaller and we went places it often felt like we were the clown car at the circus that clowns keep piling out of and you wonder how many more it can hold. We could see people counting our little brood with a certain amount of astonishment, probably thinking I was crazy for either having that many or taking that many of other people's children with me. I can only imagine how we looked to others and it makes me laugh.

The other day I was at Ross buying school shoes for 2 of my younger boys (I had three with me). A woman behind me said, "It must be so much easier shopping with boys, my girls want to shop for hours", I chuckled and said, "Yeah I guess, except they get bored fast, I love to shop so I love shopping with my 3 girls." She said, " wait.....you have three girls.....and three boys?" I smiled and said, "Actually I have 3 girls and 8 boys."  Her eyes got big and she said really? The woman behind her asked if we were a blended family and I said no they are all ours. They were a little shocked and one of them said, "Wow you don't see that much anymore, that's neat." I told her that we like it, it is crazy but fun at the same time. I turned around and a few minutes later I heard her chuckling, and then she said, "I am just trying to imagine a house full of 11 children." I laughed and said, "Well I only have 9 at home now." She laughed more and said, "Oh....only nine!?!"  Hahaha I guess my view is a little different because 11 doesn't feel overly large to me. and each time one moves out it feels like we are getting so small!

Chaos, Liveliness, Love, my life is filled with so much! I am grateful I have the children I have and the joy they bring me every day.

I love the comments we  get from people (the kind, respectful ones). I could do without the comments like "don't you know what causes that?" Or " How many were accidents?"

Really? We planned every one even the amazing surprises! ; )

Thanks to my 11 T's for making life and adventure! I wouldn't have traded my journey for anything, even though it hasn't always been easy.


So for you moms out there no matter the number of children you have.....1 or 20.......love them and know that they are yours for a reason. Mine teach me something everyday, usually about myself!

My next chapter is that of being a grandma!!! I am sooo excited, in December our little Q-Ball will join our family and he is already loved more than he knows.

Stay Tuned for; The life of a Grandma.

Amazing Women That I know

I have been thinking lately, about how many women have been a huge part of my life. I want to take a moment to remember and reflect on what I have learned from them.

First my grandma, Mildred Lucille Brown. She was a part of my life since my birth. I always remember her singing and humming, I always knew all was right with the world and she was happy when she hummed. (Usually a Hymn) She loved flowers and always had bleeding hearts in her garden, which are now my favorite. I remember sitting at her feet, watching her sew on her treadle sewing machine and later on newer machines. She patiently taught me how to sew, a love of hers that she lovingly shared with me. I love sewing today because of her. We used to stay up late and watch old movies ( Shirley Temple, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, all the classics) I love this special one on one time we had. I always loved calling her on the phone and visiting. When I got married, she made my wedding dress and helped make a few brides maid dresses. She was always there for me even through having children of my own. She was a wonderful example of unconditional love and support. I can still see her smile and feel her warm embrace, I miss her every day and wish I could still pick up the phone just to hear her voice. I was a very lucky girl to have a grandma like her. I love you Grandma.

Next my mom, she always made sure we knew she loved us. I know times were tight, but she never let us know that and she often went without things so we not only had what we needed but also wanted. She has a smile that will light up a room, and her beauty is quiet and graceful. I watched her be strong when I am sure she wanted to give up. She is humble and her faith is immovable. I admire her strength and willingness to endure to the end. I am a lucky girl to call her mom. Because of her, I am who I am today! Thanks Mom!!

Through the years there have been other women who I admire and have watched closely, I have a few friends that have changed my life. Brian and I moved to Lacey and settled in, we found out our next door neighbor was LDS and a single mom. She was an amazing woman. She loved her three boys and they really gave her some struggles along the way. She always had a pleasant smile and warmth about her that made you want to always spend time with her. She came over and spent the night when I was in labor with our fifth child. I will always be grateful for her wisdom and kindness. There was another woman who kind of took us under her wings there. She is an amazing woman who is very talented. I loved how she came up with creative consequences when her children needed scolding. I took notes from her. She is loyal and loves her family and friends unconditionally!  Thank you Lorraine and Jo Anne. 

We later moved to Stanwood where we have been for 15 years. (wow, hard to believe) I was called into Young Women's and served with a woman who is around my mom's age. She is another amazing woman! She is wise beyond her years, and so fun to be with. We were called to be visiting teaching companions (lucky me!) She became one of my best friends. I have learned so much from her on how to be a parent, mother-in-law, and grandma. She has always been there for her children, helping to take care when a grandchild is born, letting grandchildren beautify her, I have felt of her love when she served me when I was in need. I love her dearly. Many women in our ward stepped up and served my family when we had a few trials with health issues. I have watched women who are so busy with their own families, find time to bring in meals, care for my children so I could be at the hospital, sit with me during stressful times, and send card to let me know they were thinking of me. I have another dear friend who sat with me all night at the hospital as my baby had to have emergency surgery.......Many of you may not know, but I watch you and admire your strengths and willingness to give of yourselves and time in the service of others. I only hope I can return the favor someday!! 

Thank you to all the women (mentioned or not) in my life who I know are Angels on Earth sent by a loving Father. I hope in return I can be an Angel for you!! I am grateful for examples and Faith.

When I grow up........I want to be just like you!!!   

Mothering 10what?

Mothering.....where is the handbook that guides us through this crazy role? Have you ever felt like you don't quite measure up as a mother? Boy, I have. I have friends who all of their children seem perfect and make perfect choices and I wonder sometimes what I am doing wrong? This last weekend I had the opportunity to visit with two moms who I would have looked at as perfect moms with perfect kids. Come to find out, they are normal and have their own set of trials with their children. I learned a lot from these two ladies about parenting. I have 11 children ages 25, 22, 21, 19, 17, 15, 13, 10, 8, 6, and 2 1/2. So I guess you could say I have all stages of parenting going on right now. : ) We all know how it is to have toddlers...hold on to the reins because it will be a bumpy ride. It is fun and wild and tiring. Our 2 year old is the busiest child we have had, he is very smart, almost too smart. He knows how to use the dvd player, he somehow got on facebook the other day, and he called my mom on my cell phone. It is fairly easy to parent him because there are pretty clear guidelines. The 6 year old is so sweet and he has a smile that would melt anyones heart. He says the funniest things, and you wonder where he comes up with it. Here is an example: "He was talking on the phone to Taylor (our 19 year old daughter, who is in Utah right now) Taysen - Taylor, when you come home you better not be sassy! Taylor - Why would I be sassy? Taysen - Because Tess was sassy when she came home from Utah! Taylor - How was she sassy? Taysen - Because she brung apples!" Okay what a goofball.

Tate our eight year old is our serious one, he does not like to be the center of attention. He is sweet and patient. Last year at Christmas we did a name draw for each other, he got his older brother Tuckers name. Taylor helped him to wrap the gift and told him to write on it; To Tucker, Love Tate. He made a funny face and said ewww, he is a boy. So this is what his gift to Tucker said; To Tucker, Like Tate. 

Trey, our 10 year old has the most amazing crystal blue eyes, he is funny and loves to laugh. He loves tohelp others whenever he can, almost to a fault. This last year his teacher told me he was spending too much time helping others with their work, so he wasn't finishing his. "oh boy"

With these four boys, parenting is not too hard, they just need clear boundaries and lots of love.

Now on to parenting teenagers; Wow what a change I have to still give boundaries, but also give freedom at the same time. Be understanding of their hormonal feelings and love unconditionally. (not always easy)

They are great kids;

Tavin is thirteen and he loves school and his friends. I am having a hard time getting him to understand he doesn't have to be the boss! He wants to parent the little boys even when I am home.

Toni is 15 and just got her learner's permit and wants to drive everywhere, she is funny and loves art. She just got back from girls camp and had a very spiritual experience. I watch her and hope she knows how amazing she is.

Tanner is 17 and getting ready to start his senior year. He is very driven, he is in cross country and his goal is to break the school record and make it to state. He also has the goal of being valedictorian. He will probably achieve it.

Now to parenting adults; Wow this is a challenge to figure out!!! 

Taylor is 19 and currently in Utah working for family, trying to save money for a good car. She is coming home in November to go to Cosmetology School. She is the peacemaker in our home. She is very sweet and sensitive. She has a beautiful voice and plays the guitar. I miss her sooo much and I miss her music in our home.

Tucker is 21 and lives with us. He has struggled to figure out what he wants to do. Tucker is our family entertainer, he is always making us laugh, even when he is in trouble. I have been struggling to figure out what boundaries he should still have while living with us.

Tess is 22, she is getting ready to serve a mission for our church in Reno, Nevada (spanish speaking) I know she will be a wonderful missionary, she is my example every day of being Christlike. She loves everyone!

Trevor is 25, married and he and his wife are expecting their first child. He has grown into an amazing man who loves the gospel and his wife. We have struggled, mostly because we are both headstrong, but, slowly I am finding my way to letting go of my stubbornness and am able to enjoy watching him grow and make his own choices.

I have mad my share of mistakes as a mom and I am sure I am not done making them. I am realizing that my children have free agency and I have to allow that and love them through mistakes as well as triumphs. I have spent a lot of time on my knees on their behalf and my mom says that is one thing that won't end. 

My goal is for my children to know I am not perfect and I do make mistakes. Raising them is a new lesson to me every day. I want them to know that I love and support them and desire for their happiness. I want to strive to be a better mother every day.

I have had people say to me; "Wow...11 kids.....you must be a pro at parenting." My answer is to them, I would be if they all came with the same personalities, but they don't so I am learning every day just like every one else out there. I am grateful for kids who are good for others and repectful, kind, and normal (not always  perfect angels) I wouldn't want them any other way. 

So my take on mothering 10What? is Love your kids and let them know it every day. Even when it is hard. They are worth it!!

A day in the trenches

Life can certainly be a challenge.............question is are we up for it?? On certain days my answer is a resounding YES, and on others it sounds a little more like this..."Really do I need to be challenged today?" I am slowly learning that our life is what we make of it. The old saying, "The grass is greener on the other side", is so true sometimes. Being a mom is never easy no matter how many or few children you have. It is easy to compare yourself to women around you who look like they have it all together, I am a mom of 11 beautiful children, who are normal and not perfect, just like their mom. I have often looked at other women  and thought..........."She is so beautiful, she has the perfect figure, she is so talented, she is so Christlike, she is so funny, she is so smart, she is an amazing mother, she has an immaculate home, she is a wonderful cook, why can't I have it altogether like her, what is my problem. I think Satan has a way of making us feel inferior so we will stumble and fall. I found a quote on facebook from Thomas S. Monson that says, "If you don't believe in miracles perhaps you've FORGOTTEN YOU ARE ONE! I am going to print that out and hang it where I and my children can see it every day. To all those women I spoke about, I still feel those things about you, but I am beginning to feel some of them about myself as well : ).  I feel if we can always remember our divine nature it is easier to stand and rise to the call of motherhood, being a wife and most important....being a daughter of God. The trials will still be there and we may still have times that we doubt ourselves, but if we rely on the gifts that God has given us and share them with others it will help us through the trenches of daily life. I am so grateful for the knowledge that I have a Heavenly Father who loves me even when I feel unloveable, who comforts me when I am sad, who cheers me on when I have success, and who is always there even when I feel so alone. Life certainly has its mountains to climb, but the view when you reach the top is breathtaking. So, I'll continue to trudge on and break a sweat, and work hard for I long to have that breathtaking view in my sight.

Nieman Family

We have a great life full of laughter, fun, and craziness.

Brian and I have been married for 22 years. We have 10 children...7 boys 3 girls. We live in Stanwood Washington and everday we are grateful for the beauty we are surrounded by.
Our days are filled with school, wrestling, play practice, the wii, homework, laundry, chores, etc....the list goes on and on.

Our oldest son Trevor is 21, he is an eagle scout. He is living at home for now and waiting for his schooling program to start. He is sensitive and fun. He loves to tease. He has found that he loves fishing and snowboarding. He is dating a wonderful girl that we love.

Our daughter Tess is almost 19 and she is currently attending BYU-Idaho. She absolutely loves it there. Her testimony continues to grow by leaps and bounds, even though she really misses her brothers and sisters. She has always been the second mom.

Our Son Tucker is 17 and a senior. He is working on his senior project and eagle project. He loves his Architecture class and metal shop. He is our family entertainer. You can always plan on laughing when he is around. He loves to do funny voices. He is really looking forward to serving a mission for the LDS Church.

Our daughter Taylor is 16 and can't wait to get her license next month. She has a beautiful singing voice. We love to tease her about being blonde. If she didn't look so much like her dad we would swear they switched her at the hospital (where did that blonde hair come from?) she is very sweet and loves fashion. She has decided she wants to be a hairstylist like her mom.

Our son Tanner is 14 and just attended his first Stake dance. He is our Brain. He has set a goal to keep a 4.0 grade all through middle and high school. He loves playing sports, He is great at track, boy can he run. He is wrestling right now and is really enjoying it. He also has girls following him around. Ugh!

Our daughter Toni is 12 and just moved up to young womens. She is a wonderful artist and has just found that she loves to cook! She always has a smile and is friendly. She is very patient with her little brothers. She can't wait for next year so she can play basketball and take Japanese.

Our son Tavin is almost 10 and he is our helper. He always wants to help. He loves choir and cub scouts. He is very proud that his car took first place in the Pinewood Derby Race. He made the car all by himself. He is a good big brother.

Our Son Trey is 6 and still has not lost a tooth (this frustrates him!) He has dark hair and the most beautiful crystal blue eyes. He has the most infectious laugh and you can usually guarrantee that he is up to mischief if he is smiling. He loves to play outside and hang with his older brothers.

Our son Tate is almost 5 and he is Taylor's twin. They look so much alike that we call them twins. He has strawberry blonde hair and he is very sweet. He is pretty serious most of the time. Only certain special people can manage a smile out of him.He adores his big sister Tess. He was determined that he was moving to college with her until we told him he wouldn't be able to go to Kindergarten if he went. He misses her and talks to he every other day. thank heavens for cell phones.

Our youngest son Taysen is almost 3 and a fireball!!! He is full of energy and is quite smart. He is not shy at all and will talk to anyone. He is very picky about his hair and already tells me how he wants it cut. He loves to play the wii and actually isn't too bad!! He tells me I am cute everyday, so I will keep him around for awhile. lol