We have gotten out and raked the yard and guess what, starting to see some green grass. I know we need the moisture, but sure would be nice if we did not get any more snow for 8 months. Last night as I went to bed at 9:30 the temp was 51. That is amazing for late March.
The t-ball meeting with B went well. I felt bad because all the boys got put together to throw the ball. B obviously was matched up with a kid that had played quite a bit of ball. B would wildly throw to him and all the kid did was run around the gym floor trying to get the balls. I think that kid's dad was getting frustrated for his kid. Later I saw the kid throwing with his dad and he did not miss one ball that was thrown to him and he always threw everything right to his dad. So, yesterday I got outside with B and started throwing the ball. The first ball I threw him he got scared and turned around and it hit him right on top of the head. He has learned do not turn your back on the ball. Then later he was not paying attention and I threw the ball and he moved his glove and the ball landed on his toe - yes, my kids love being barefoot. We have a long way to come but he did end up catching about half of what I threw him.
Before our trip I was doing really well with JB's food. It seems like every other day now he gets really red cheeks - often times just after eating food. (I don't really recall red cheeks in Texas.) I know that teething can cause this but I guess I am back to one food at a time. The only thing I know he can handle is bananas, green beans and peas. (Take that back, I just fed him bananas and he almost instantly got red cheeks.) I think carrots, applesauce, squash and peaches bother him. Uuuggghhh. I made some homemade squash and zucchini the other day (he seemed to tolerate zucchini farely well). I just could not bring myself to puree peas and green beans though.
JB can now go from a laying down position to sitting up. He loves his new found freedom. Whenver I catch him in another part of the room, he just looks at me and laughs.
Off to supervise showers and hopefully have some peace and quiet in another 45 minutes or so.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Settling Back In
It has taken me most of the week to feel like I am settled back in. Getting my new 'office' completely set up has been a week long process and still not 100% there. I have been cleaning out and have a pile started of stuff to put on Craigslist hopefully sometime soon. Most of it is the boys' toys. I am finally tired of all the stuff with lots of little parts. I have had to hide the stuff in the laundry room under a towel, otherwise they would somehow find it and pull it all out again. I had bought some organizing stuff while in Texas from Ikea and Container Store and it is amazing the difference, when organizing is done right.
JB is rockin and rolling. There have been a few times where it really looked like he propelled himself forward while his knees were underneath him. Now time for the diligently scanning the floor at all times to make sure there is nothing that could go in the mouth. He still does not have a tooth (I did not get one until after my first b-day). He is definately later than the other two.
B has enjoyed being back at school. I did take him to try out for the school play but, I made the mistake of sticking around after I dropped him off. He was fine initially then came and sat beside me and decided he did not want to stay. Probably best because he was exhausted from the trip. Him and I are going to go see the play tomorrow, so will be good for him to see the finished product. B has also learned this week how to blow up balloons. This makes me so happy because when they do come across balloons, they have spent days asking me to blow them up. J has actually been able to get air in a couple of them too.
Just about warm enough to get the bike trailer out. Really ready to start taking the younger two while B is in school.
Totally random....Today I went out shopping and was picking up some baby food at Target. I hear all the time about what an obese nation we are and how school age children are starting to have health issues that normal adults have later in life. Well, I could not believe it today when I saw Macaroni and Cheese baby food! What in the world is up with that. Are the fruits and veggies just not tasty enough for 6 or 8 month old babies?
Here are a few more pictures from our trip that I never got downloaded.
These next two are from when we went to the Stockyards in Fort Worth. The boys thought this convertible cadillac was pretty cool and the second picture is of them in their longhorn balloon hats that a guy made for them. (B's high waters just kill me, that is why this evening I pulled out his 6/7 clothes)
This was taken at my aunt's house. They have an awesome yard with a really cool sidewalk that the boys used as a race track.
JB after a bath.
JB is rockin and rolling. There have been a few times where it really looked like he propelled himself forward while his knees were underneath him. Now time for the diligently scanning the floor at all times to make sure there is nothing that could go in the mouth. He still does not have a tooth (I did not get one until after my first b-day). He is definately later than the other two.
B has enjoyed being back at school. I did take him to try out for the school play but, I made the mistake of sticking around after I dropped him off. He was fine initially then came and sat beside me and decided he did not want to stay. Probably best because he was exhausted from the trip. Him and I are going to go see the play tomorrow, so will be good for him to see the finished product. B has also learned this week how to blow up balloons. This makes me so happy because when they do come across balloons, they have spent days asking me to blow them up. J has actually been able to get air in a couple of them too.
Just about warm enough to get the bike trailer out. Really ready to start taking the younger two while B is in school.
Totally random....Today I went out shopping and was picking up some baby food at Target. I hear all the time about what an obese nation we are and how school age children are starting to have health issues that normal adults have later in life. Well, I could not believe it today when I saw Macaroni and Cheese baby food! What in the world is up with that. Are the fruits and veggies just not tasty enough for 6 or 8 month old babies?
Here are a few more pictures from our trip that I never got downloaded.
These next two are from when we went to the Stockyards in Fort Worth. The boys thought this convertible cadillac was pretty cool and the second picture is of them in their longhorn balloon hats that a guy made for them. (B's high waters just kill me, that is why this evening I pulled out his 6/7 clothes)
This was taken at my aunt's house. They have an awesome yard with a really cool sidewalk that the boys used as a race track.
JB after a bath.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Home
We are home!!!!
I am thanking God that the weather was clear all but about 15 minutes of the trip. (It is suppose to snow all week here at home). Actually all day Sunday the weather was sunny and mid 60s most of the way.
We left Texas 2:15pm on Saturday and got home Sunday at 9:15pm. Pretty good for only 1 driver and 3 small kids. It helped that JB woke me up Sunday morning at 5am and I could not go to sleep, so we left the motel Sunday at 5:30. Made for a very long day but they were troopers. The boys did not even watch one DVD on the way home. They sat in the back coloring and playing. When it would get quiet, it did not take long for J to start knock knock jokes. If you have never been privileged to hear jokes learned from 5 year old brother, let me share. It goes something like this....
Knock Knock
Whose there
Underwear
Underwear who
Underwear.....on your head.
The next time it would be underwear on your foot, etc. Only 5 year old boys and their little brothers could laugh at those.
21 days, 7 different 'beds' and 4,464 miles. I am pleased to say that only one thing ended up MIA and that was a pair of pajama bottoms. Only 3 items were left at a stop but they have all been found. (I have figured out how to do things differently- and more efficiently-for our big road trip late May out to Ohio to see my oldest niece graduate from high school.)
Saturday morning before leaving I was able to get together with all 13 cousins (minus my sister) on my dad's side. Sure was fun to see the next generation coming up and to watch everyone interact. I think it had been at least 10 years since the last time we got together and sadly, all but 3 of us live within 4 hours of each other.
On Saturday late afternoon as I was pushing along, I was on a two lane road headed west. The sunset was dead center, huge and right in front of me on the horizon. Sure was beautiful but made the oncoming traffic silhoutted. We passed more wind turbine farms and this time it was daylight. We were talking about the massive size and J pipes up with "Wow, spiderman could climb those" to which B said "I bet you he could even throw his web and swing between them.
I was so excited to get to my favorite gas station in northern Wyoming. On the way down the gas was 2.29. I was shocked to find out 3 weeks later it was 2.57.
JB spent a total of 31 hours in his carseat (I left him sleeping in it when we got to the motel) with the exception of the 2-3 minutes I would take him out to change him. The last 2 hours of the trip, even the laid back whatever kid was crying and ready to be home. He will be on the floor playing for the next couple of days.
Yeehaw for Motel 6. I found two of them on the road that were under $35 (including tax). Definitely the way to go if you are just there to sleep.
JR did quite a few projects around the house. One of which was finally setting up my new 'office'. He definitely missed all the chaos and is glad to have us back home.
I am thanking God that the weather was clear all but about 15 minutes of the trip. (It is suppose to snow all week here at home). Actually all day Sunday the weather was sunny and mid 60s most of the way.
We left Texas 2:15pm on Saturday and got home Sunday at 9:15pm. Pretty good for only 1 driver and 3 small kids. It helped that JB woke me up Sunday morning at 5am and I could not go to sleep, so we left the motel Sunday at 5:30. Made for a very long day but they were troopers. The boys did not even watch one DVD on the way home. They sat in the back coloring and playing. When it would get quiet, it did not take long for J to start knock knock jokes. If you have never been privileged to hear jokes learned from 5 year old brother, let me share. It goes something like this....
Knock Knock
Whose there
Underwear
Underwear who
Underwear.....on your head.
The next time it would be underwear on your foot, etc. Only 5 year old boys and their little brothers could laugh at those.
21 days, 7 different 'beds' and 4,464 miles. I am pleased to say that only one thing ended up MIA and that was a pair of pajama bottoms. Only 3 items were left at a stop but they have all been found. (I have figured out how to do things differently- and more efficiently-for our big road trip late May out to Ohio to see my oldest niece graduate from high school.)
Saturday morning before leaving I was able to get together with all 13 cousins (minus my sister) on my dad's side. Sure was fun to see the next generation coming up and to watch everyone interact. I think it had been at least 10 years since the last time we got together and sadly, all but 3 of us live within 4 hours of each other.
On Saturday late afternoon as I was pushing along, I was on a two lane road headed west. The sunset was dead center, huge and right in front of me on the horizon. Sure was beautiful but made the oncoming traffic silhoutted. We passed more wind turbine farms and this time it was daylight. We were talking about the massive size and J pipes up with "Wow, spiderman could climb those" to which B said "I bet you he could even throw his web and swing between them.
I was so excited to get to my favorite gas station in northern Wyoming. On the way down the gas was 2.29. I was shocked to find out 3 weeks later it was 2.57.
JB spent a total of 31 hours in his carseat (I left him sleeping in it when we got to the motel) with the exception of the 2-3 minutes I would take him out to change him. The last 2 hours of the trip, even the laid back whatever kid was crying and ready to be home. He will be on the floor playing for the next couple of days.
Yeehaw for Motel 6. I found two of them on the road that were under $35 (including tax). Definitely the way to go if you are just there to sleep.
JR did quite a few projects around the house. One of which was finally setting up my new 'office'. He definitely missed all the chaos and is glad to have us back home.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
On the Lake
A friend took us out on the lake today. Actually, we took the boat across the lake last night for dinner. Sure was fun. Kind of like jumping on a snowmobile to go somewhere up north. The boys really liked it. It was warmer today when we went out.
JB is one of the happiest, smiliest babies I know.
For some reason I really like shots from behind....
This was a really cool plane that we saw land. It looked much nicer than the typical sea planes. Sure wish it had made a few more touch downs.
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Tomorrow is our official start back up north. Although we are only going a few hours and spending Friday night in West Texas. Hoping to make it somewhere to northern New Mexico Sat night and the rest of the way home Sunday. Sunday will probably be a 12 plus hour day. Hopefully the boys will catch up on sleep.
JB is one of the happiest, smiliest babies I know.
For some reason I really like shots from behind....
This was a really cool plane that we saw land. It looked much nicer than the typical sea planes. Sure wish it had made a few more touch downs.
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Tomorrow is our official start back up north. Although we are only going a few hours and spending Friday night in West Texas. Hoping to make it somewhere to northern New Mexico Sat night and the rest of the way home Sunday. Sunday will probably be a 12 plus hour day. Hopefully the boys will catch up on sleep.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
JB
Look who is sitting up now....
A great way to contain/entertain JB...
The other day the boys played baseball with some friends in their yard. B learned how to stop a ground ball and then tried to teach J. They were so exhausted J fell asleep at 5pm on the way out to dinner. I carried him into the restaurant asleep, put him in my lap and he slept all the way through dinner. He finally woke up as we were leaving the table.
We also went out recently to a bowling alley, go-carts, etc with the boys and my dad. It sure was fun having B old enough to ride bumper cars. A friend also gave him a card making kit. He has had so much fun making cards for friends. He definitely has a creative/artistic streak. Hopefully he will have a bent for drawing like his dad.
A great way to contain/entertain JB...
The other day the boys played baseball with some friends in their yard. B learned how to stop a ground ball and then tried to teach J. They were so exhausted J fell asleep at 5pm on the way out to dinner. I carried him into the restaurant asleep, put him in my lap and he slept all the way through dinner. He finally woke up as we were leaving the table.
We also went out recently to a bowling alley, go-carts, etc with the boys and my dad. It sure was fun having B old enough to ride bumper cars. A friend also gave him a card making kit. He has had so much fun making cards for friends. He definitely has a creative/artistic streak. Hopefully he will have a bent for drawing like his dad.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Shorts
The rain has stopped. The wind has died down. The weather the last two days has finally warmed up to bring out the shorts. It is always a great thing when I get out in the sun and my freckles start appearing. Now B has no excuses to stay in front of the tv.
We recently went to the Fort Worth Stockyards to watch the longhorn cattle drive and go to their weekly rodeo. The boys really enjoyed the rodeo. It was only a few events (barrel racing, calf roping, and bull riding) but it was just enough for them. Half way through the rodeo they had a mutten bustin (or whatever it was called) where the kids go out in the arena and try to grab a ribbon off of a sheep. There was only 1 sheep though and about 15 kids. The sheep ran the length of the arena and then stopped at the other end. Of course B was not the fastest, but sure had fun getting out there. J was not interested, although he asked all evening when the sheep were coming but refused to go out there when it was time.
This past weekend the boys went to their first theatrical play, Your a Good Man Charlie Brown (and we had a great visit with my aunt, uncle and cousin). Did not know how J would do sitting through it being quiet, but he was great until the last 10 minutes. It was one snippet after another. B enjoyed Snoopy the best and all of his antics. After the play the kids were invited to make a kite and fly it outside with the cast. They really liked this and learned just what it takes to fly a kite, besides wind. It was neat because the play was a part of a program that I participated in as a 7 year old in my Aunt's town. So, 30 some odd years I am headed back there to take my kids. I sure wish there was a good theatre program back home. I am confident that B could be a thespian. A traveling theatre group is putting on a performance at B's school the week we get back - (they do it once a year). I am curious to see if B will try out for the play (Princess and the Pea). Rehearsals are for 4 days and then the performance is that weekend. Either way, he has now been introduced to the world of theatre.
We have put more than 2300 miles on the van and have loved every mile of it. Okay, not every mile of it. Driving in Dallas is the pits. I never understood when I was younger and would be in the backseat making noise. I would be told to be quiet so the driver could drive. I always thought, don't you use your eyes to drive and not your ears, so why does my noise level affect anyone's ability to drive. I get it, particularly when 2 are arguing and one is screaming and I am trying to read exit signs that are coming at my in quick succession on a 8 lane highway with traffic. On more than one occasion I have had to turn around because I was not going to try a last second lane change. I am so thankful to live in a state that has a lot fewer people than Texas and no toll roads!
I always forget, until I come back down south about the money here. I am amazed at some (not all by any means) of the churches and how grandious they are. I often wonder how so much money can be spent on a building and it's furnishings. (I know it is God's temple and it is where you go to worship and just like the temple Solomon built was very costly, but ....) Then to drive by some of the newer schools and see the nice football stadiums, etc. I won't even mention the billion dollar something Cowboy Football Stadium. It just blows my mind. Texans sure do love their football.
The rest of the trip hopefully will be nothing but getting out and enjoying the sun. Saturday I will be getting together with my 13 first cousins on my dad's side. I don't think we have all been together in at least 10 years. Should be a lot of fun. Then that afternoon we will start the long trek back. Hopefully I can get pictures posted sometime between now and then!
Off to snuggle with little JB. The last couple of nights, due to sleeping arrangements, he has slept with me. I think he is getting use to it and I can't say that I really mind right now!
We recently went to the Fort Worth Stockyards to watch the longhorn cattle drive and go to their weekly rodeo. The boys really enjoyed the rodeo. It was only a few events (barrel racing, calf roping, and bull riding) but it was just enough for them. Half way through the rodeo they had a mutten bustin (or whatever it was called) where the kids go out in the arena and try to grab a ribbon off of a sheep. There was only 1 sheep though and about 15 kids. The sheep ran the length of the arena and then stopped at the other end. Of course B was not the fastest, but sure had fun getting out there. J was not interested, although he asked all evening when the sheep were coming but refused to go out there when it was time.
This past weekend the boys went to their first theatrical play, Your a Good Man Charlie Brown (and we had a great visit with my aunt, uncle and cousin). Did not know how J would do sitting through it being quiet, but he was great until the last 10 minutes. It was one snippet after another. B enjoyed Snoopy the best and all of his antics. After the play the kids were invited to make a kite and fly it outside with the cast. They really liked this and learned just what it takes to fly a kite, besides wind. It was neat because the play was a part of a program that I participated in as a 7 year old in my Aunt's town. So, 30 some odd years I am headed back there to take my kids. I sure wish there was a good theatre program back home. I am confident that B could be a thespian. A traveling theatre group is putting on a performance at B's school the week we get back - (they do it once a year). I am curious to see if B will try out for the play (Princess and the Pea). Rehearsals are for 4 days and then the performance is that weekend. Either way, he has now been introduced to the world of theatre.
We have put more than 2300 miles on the van and have loved every mile of it. Okay, not every mile of it. Driving in Dallas is the pits. I never understood when I was younger and would be in the backseat making noise. I would be told to be quiet so the driver could drive. I always thought, don't you use your eyes to drive and not your ears, so why does my noise level affect anyone's ability to drive. I get it, particularly when 2 are arguing and one is screaming and I am trying to read exit signs that are coming at my in quick succession on a 8 lane highway with traffic. On more than one occasion I have had to turn around because I was not going to try a last second lane change. I am so thankful to live in a state that has a lot fewer people than Texas and no toll roads!
I always forget, until I come back down south about the money here. I am amazed at some (not all by any means) of the churches and how grandious they are. I often wonder how so much money can be spent on a building and it's furnishings. (I know it is God's temple and it is where you go to worship and just like the temple Solomon built was very costly, but ....) Then to drive by some of the newer schools and see the nice football stadiums, etc. I won't even mention the billion dollar something Cowboy Football Stadium. It just blows my mind. Texans sure do love their football.
The rest of the trip hopefully will be nothing but getting out and enjoying the sun. Saturday I will be getting together with my 13 first cousins on my dad's side. I don't think we have all been together in at least 10 years. Should be a lot of fun. Then that afternoon we will start the long trek back. Hopefully I can get pictures posted sometime between now and then!
Off to snuggle with little JB. The last couple of nights, due to sleeping arrangements, he has slept with me. I think he is getting use to it and I can't say that I really mind right now!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Lots of sun and wind
Lots of sun, wind and rain....but no coats! Yeah.
We have been in Texas for a week now and will be here another 10 days or so. We spent the first 4 days in the Dallas Fort Worth area with my mom. The boys did a lot of playing outside and going down to the lake. They loved feeding the ducks and birds. It was amazing how quickly the birds flocked. We started with just one bird and within about 90 seconds we had probably close to 75. The boys could not believe how quickly others came. J and JB loved going for rides in the wagon (mom pulling of course) and B riding along in a battery operated car. B is also loving all the 'gaming' he is getting to do since he does not have xbox, sega, etc at home. Got to spend some time with an out of state friend while I left the kids with my mom. Caught up with some old post-college friends and did lots of reminiscing.
The next 4 days are being spent in Abilene with my dad. The boys have been running all over the place visiting various city parks. It is obvious we have been cooped up back home because I have never seen B expend so much energy. They have a 3 wheeled bike with a basket on the back. J has enjoyed riding in the back and I put JB in the front carrier I have. JB loves the wind blowing in his face and I get quite the work out. The boys and I met my oldest friend (a life long friend I have literally known since day one) and her son who is B's age. They got along so good and did not want to leave when it was over. You know they are tired when they go to bed at 7:15 without a fight.
Will head back to the DFW area on Friday.
I forgot the weirdest part of our trip down. We were somewhere in the panhandle of Texas and it had just gotten dark. We crested a hill and saw close to 100 red lights all blinking at the same time, in perfect unison, all the way across the horizon. We wondered for many miles on a desolate stretch of road. As we got closer to what seemed like something out of a sci-fi movie, my hunch was correct. A huge wind farm (or whatever they are called) with wind turbines. I wish it had been daylight so the boys could have seen them up close. It was pretty freaky seeing the shadows of them as we drove by.
We have been in Texas for a week now and will be here another 10 days or so. We spent the first 4 days in the Dallas Fort Worth area with my mom. The boys did a lot of playing outside and going down to the lake. They loved feeding the ducks and birds. It was amazing how quickly the birds flocked. We started with just one bird and within about 90 seconds we had probably close to 75. The boys could not believe how quickly others came. J and JB loved going for rides in the wagon (mom pulling of course) and B riding along in a battery operated car. B is also loving all the 'gaming' he is getting to do since he does not have xbox, sega, etc at home. Got to spend some time with an out of state friend while I left the kids with my mom. Caught up with some old post-college friends and did lots of reminiscing.
The next 4 days are being spent in Abilene with my dad. The boys have been running all over the place visiting various city parks. It is obvious we have been cooped up back home because I have never seen B expend so much energy. They have a 3 wheeled bike with a basket on the back. J has enjoyed riding in the back and I put JB in the front carrier I have. JB loves the wind blowing in his face and I get quite the work out. The boys and I met my oldest friend (a life long friend I have literally known since day one) and her son who is B's age. They got along so good and did not want to leave when it was over. You know they are tired when they go to bed at 7:15 without a fight.
Will head back to the DFW area on Friday.
I forgot the weirdest part of our trip down. We were somewhere in the panhandle of Texas and it had just gotten dark. We crested a hill and saw close to 100 red lights all blinking at the same time, in perfect unison, all the way across the horizon. We wondered for many miles on a desolate stretch of road. As we got closer to what seemed like something out of a sci-fi movie, my hunch was correct. A huge wind farm (or whatever they are called) with wind turbines. I wish it had been daylight so the boys could have seen them up close. It was pretty freaky seeing the shadows of them as we drove by.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Texas
We arrived safely. It was quite the long trip but the boys did absolutely awesome. My biggest concern was JB but I honestly don't think he cried once in 3 days!
Twice we saw the moon come up and it was gorgeous. A huge orange full moon on the horizon. Made it a little easier to watch out for deer on the road. It was interstate about half the way and 2-4 lane highways the rest of the way. We stopped in Denver for 3 hours and visited with an old college roommate. It was neat to catch up with her. She has 4 kids, 3 of which are boys aged 11, 13 and 14. Although mine are not quite that close in age, I pictured myself exactly where she is in 10 years.
On the way down the boys learned about feed lots (there are some thing/smells you just forget until you are thrown back into them), saw cotton fields, watched geese flying and all the cool formations they make, saw a random field with lots and lots of camels and the boys learned about some of my favorite places to eat. Everytime I come back to Texas I get excited when I see Sonic, Chick-Fil-A, Long John Silvers Braums and many others. I found it interesting that there were some small towns where Dairy Queens had shut down, once a staple in any small town (they have even been called a Texas Stop Sign). A sign of the economy or a sign of something else taking it's place - Sonic. Saw a Sonic in every town.
I created Mom time in the car. When the older two would start getting whiny, I would turn the radio speakers up front, turn up some of my favorite music and tell them Mom could not hear them for a while.
One of the first rest areas we stopped at, the boys got out and ran around and threw the football while I got dinner ready. I had been keeping an eye on the restrooms because B enjoys his independence of being old enough to go into restrooms by himself. He asked to go in there and no one had been coming or going so I said yes. J followed suit. A minute later J comes running over to and says "there is a strange man talking to B." J was not overly concerned but my mom alert went up. I high tailed it over there and B was walking out just the time I got there. I started asking if he was talking with someone, etc and got a no to all of my answers. When it was time to leave, I headed to the restroom and told the boys to stand just inside the doorway. It was then I found out that in the bathrooms they have a recording of a man talking about weather info etc. This is what J had heard earlier.
When we did stop, I would put JB on the floor of the van (one of the seats out of the van) and lock the doors. He had just enough room to roll around and play with his toys and get his exercise while we got our exercise outside.
The last motel we stayed at had a sign that said "No refunds after 15 minutes of checking in." Made me nervous as to what one would discover after having been in a room 15 minutes but we all slept fine and other than one of those unidentifiable odors that I eventually noticed, all was well.
Twice we saw the moon come up and it was gorgeous. A huge orange full moon on the horizon. Made it a little easier to watch out for deer on the road. It was interstate about half the way and 2-4 lane highways the rest of the way. We stopped in Denver for 3 hours and visited with an old college roommate. It was neat to catch up with her. She has 4 kids, 3 of which are boys aged 11, 13 and 14. Although mine are not quite that close in age, I pictured myself exactly where she is in 10 years.
On the way down the boys learned about feed lots (there are some thing/smells you just forget until you are thrown back into them), saw cotton fields, watched geese flying and all the cool formations they make, saw a random field with lots and lots of camels and the boys learned about some of my favorite places to eat. Everytime I come back to Texas I get excited when I see Sonic, Chick-Fil-A, Long John Silvers Braums and many others. I found it interesting that there were some small towns where Dairy Queens had shut down, once a staple in any small town (they have even been called a Texas Stop Sign). A sign of the economy or a sign of something else taking it's place - Sonic. Saw a Sonic in every town.
I created Mom time in the car. When the older two would start getting whiny, I would turn the radio speakers up front, turn up some of my favorite music and tell them Mom could not hear them for a while.
One of the first rest areas we stopped at, the boys got out and ran around and threw the football while I got dinner ready. I had been keeping an eye on the restrooms because B enjoys his independence of being old enough to go into restrooms by himself. He asked to go in there and no one had been coming or going so I said yes. J followed suit. A minute later J comes running over to and says "there is a strange man talking to B." J was not overly concerned but my mom alert went up. I high tailed it over there and B was walking out just the time I got there. I started asking if he was talking with someone, etc and got a no to all of my answers. When it was time to leave, I headed to the restroom and told the boys to stand just inside the doorway. It was then I found out that in the bathrooms they have a recording of a man talking about weather info etc. This is what J had heard earlier.
When we did stop, I would put JB on the floor of the van (one of the seats out of the van) and lock the doors. He had just enough room to roll around and play with his toys and get his exercise while we got our exercise outside.
The last motel we stayed at had a sign that said "No refunds after 15 minutes of checking in." Made me nervous as to what one would discover after having been in a room 15 minutes but we all slept fine and other than one of those unidentifiable odors that I eventually noticed, all was well.
Friday, February 26, 2010
The Countdown!
The boys and I leave on Monday for Texas. I am really psyched, even if people think I am nuts going on a road trip by myself with 3 small kids. Just preparing myself for lots of bathroom stops and some hard but quick times of burning energy.
We had some beautiful weather today.
Just warm enough that I put JB outside on a blanket.
He enjoyed it but I think will be like his momma and can't tolerate much of the bright sun. JB is up on all fours and has the backwards scoot down pretty good. He is sitting up unassisted too, at least for a few seconds. No teeth yet.
J had a blast getting on the bikes. He finally has the coordination down to actually move the bike forward on his own. He also found some tools and enjoyed working on his bike. (I think his own tool box is just perfect for his 3rd b-day coming up.)
J has also started spending 15-20 minutes hovered over a puzzle, trying his best to match up the pieces. I am sure it won't be long before he is putting the whole thing together by himself. J also has a great game he likes to play outside. After watching so many wrecks in the Olympics, he will ride his scooter around and then fall off and lay on the ground. I am just waiting for a car to stop and check it out. B then yells, "He is down...". J jumps up laughing and takes off again.
B is signed up for t-ball, which should start early April with practices. Looking forward to getting outside with him in Texas and throwing the ball around. He is proving to be pretty competitive but not necessarily cut throat, so will be fun to see how it goes. Here he is on his big wheel, which hard to believe he is outgrowing. I can remember when he could not reach the pedals.
Another tie shot. B continues to wear the same tie for about 5 weeks now. J is a little more adventurous though.
We had some beautiful weather today.
Just warm enough that I put JB outside on a blanket.
He enjoyed it but I think will be like his momma and can't tolerate much of the bright sun. JB is up on all fours and has the backwards scoot down pretty good. He is sitting up unassisted too, at least for a few seconds. No teeth yet.
J had a blast getting on the bikes. He finally has the coordination down to actually move the bike forward on his own. He also found some tools and enjoyed working on his bike. (I think his own tool box is just perfect for his 3rd b-day coming up.)
J has also started spending 15-20 minutes hovered over a puzzle, trying his best to match up the pieces. I am sure it won't be long before he is putting the whole thing together by himself. J also has a great game he likes to play outside. After watching so many wrecks in the Olympics, he will ride his scooter around and then fall off and lay on the ground. I am just waiting for a car to stop and check it out. B then yells, "He is down...". J jumps up laughing and takes off again.
B is signed up for t-ball, which should start early April with practices. Looking forward to getting outside with him in Texas and throwing the ball around. He is proving to be pretty competitive but not necessarily cut throat, so will be fun to see how it goes. Here he is on his big wheel, which hard to believe he is outgrowing. I can remember when he could not reach the pedals.
Another tie shot. B continues to wear the same tie for about 5 weeks now. J is a little more adventurous though.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Olympics
I have been spending most evenings on the couch watching the Olympics, instead of in the office on the computer - sorry. Have really enjoyed the games - go USA. I have also been working on some projects while my mom is here visiting. She gets great time with the boys and I get great uninterrupted time!
JB has been sleeping better. Seems that he was just hungry and mom was not feeding him enough. At times he will eat 3-4 bowls of food. He is so cute, he just sits in his chair with his mouth hanging open, like a little bird, until you fill it. He now connects sitting in his chair with eating and is learning the word bottle. When he runs out of cereal, he is becoming quite vocal when he wants more.
Most of the household has had a cough this past week but appears to have moved through pretty quickly.
Just not much happening, have not even been taking many pictures.
Off to bed.
(Oh, not real sure why the video on the 13th sometimes is unavailable. Most times when I click on it, it is not available, but I also know some have seen it.)
JB has been sleeping better. Seems that he was just hungry and mom was not feeding him enough. At times he will eat 3-4 bowls of food. He is so cute, he just sits in his chair with his mouth hanging open, like a little bird, until you fill it. He now connects sitting in his chair with eating and is learning the word bottle. When he runs out of cereal, he is becoming quite vocal when he wants more.
Most of the household has had a cough this past week but appears to have moved through pretty quickly.
Just not much happening, have not even been taking many pictures.
Off to bed.
(Oh, not real sure why the video on the 13th sometimes is unavailable. Most times when I click on it, it is not available, but I also know some have seen it.)
Saturday, February 13, 2010
laughter
B loves entertaining JB. We put JB in his swing and then B pushes him and then says 'hey, you kicked me' and JB just cracks up!!! Check it out.
We are still awaiting for the first tooth to appear and he is still my baldest baby. For some reason he has been waking up once a night in pain. I guess the digestive tract is still trying to work things out. This evening he was sound asleep and then let out a horrible scream. I went up there and he could not be consoled. He was screaming and grunting. I had a fleeting thought that he sounded like a woman in labor. I held him close, he settled down, let out a very small burp and then went back to sleep.
J has also been waking up in the middle of the night. Always looking for water and then begging to get in to bed with us. I love it when the boys climb into bed with us, but when J does, I get no sleep. That kid is all over the bed!
Up north it is the habit not to wear shoes in the house (particularly in the winter). The boys don't like to wear socks either because then they can't run around on the wood floors or they take nasty spills. Well, they have discovered their toes and all the things they can pick up. Not the most sanitary thing, given we have a little one that is starting to move around. I am constantly finding them picking up JB's toys with their toys..the same toys he puts in his mouth. The other day the boys were eating pretzels and the boys thought it was so cool that they could put pretzels between their toys! Gross. Then I started thinking about all the times I just pick something up all the floor - you know the 5 second rule - and then eat it. Not much different I guess. So, I have not yet purchased one of those anti-bac mops, but I think it is time. JB is already doing the swimming thing (on his belly with feet and arms off the floor) and I imagine just a few more weeks until he gets his knees up underneath him.
The boys and I are getting ready for a road trip to Texas in 2 weeks. Yes, I am actually excited about hitting the road with them. We have lots of fun in the car, unless they repeated ask 'are we there yet'. Although not real sure how to 'run' JB during our pit stops. If he is just barely crawling, I can't really let him out to crawl all over the concrete or grassy areas, where dogs run.
Have enjoyed watching the Olympics. B is old enough to really be getting into it and J just follows suit, yelling and cheering.
Ramblins are over. Off to bed
We are still awaiting for the first tooth to appear and he is still my baldest baby. For some reason he has been waking up once a night in pain. I guess the digestive tract is still trying to work things out. This evening he was sound asleep and then let out a horrible scream. I went up there and he could not be consoled. He was screaming and grunting. I had a fleeting thought that he sounded like a woman in labor. I held him close, he settled down, let out a very small burp and then went back to sleep.
J has also been waking up in the middle of the night. Always looking for water and then begging to get in to bed with us. I love it when the boys climb into bed with us, but when J does, I get no sleep. That kid is all over the bed!
Up north it is the habit not to wear shoes in the house (particularly in the winter). The boys don't like to wear socks either because then they can't run around on the wood floors or they take nasty spills. Well, they have discovered their toes and all the things they can pick up. Not the most sanitary thing, given we have a little one that is starting to move around. I am constantly finding them picking up JB's toys with their toys..the same toys he puts in his mouth. The other day the boys were eating pretzels and the boys thought it was so cool that they could put pretzels between their toys! Gross. Then I started thinking about all the times I just pick something up all the floor - you know the 5 second rule - and then eat it. Not much different I guess. So, I have not yet purchased one of those anti-bac mops, but I think it is time. JB is already doing the swimming thing (on his belly with feet and arms off the floor) and I imagine just a few more weeks until he gets his knees up underneath him.
The boys and I are getting ready for a road trip to Texas in 2 weeks. Yes, I am actually excited about hitting the road with them. We have lots of fun in the car, unless they repeated ask 'are we there yet'. Although not real sure how to 'run' JB during our pit stops. If he is just barely crawling, I can't really let him out to crawl all over the concrete or grassy areas, where dogs run.
Have enjoyed watching the Olympics. B is old enough to really be getting into it and J just follows suit, yelling and cheering.
Ramblins are over. Off to bed
Sunday, February 7, 2010
6 months and ties and bandanas
HAPPY 6 MONTHS JB!!
Look what I can do....
This is the attire for this Sunday. Not sure where the bandanas on the legs came from but I don't think we can get many more colors or patterns. Notice J's shoes, there are no shoelaces. He loves to take them out and then they can never be found!
Look what I can do....
This is the attire for this Sunday. Not sure where the bandanas on the legs came from but I don't think we can get many more colors or patterns. Notice J's shoes, there are no shoelaces. He loves to take them out and then they can never be found!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Guess What?
B is becoming quite the story teller. The bad part...he always interjects "Guess What?" and won't continue until you say what.
"Hey Mom, Guess What?
"What?"
"Today at school Bryston brought this toy and guess what? Guess What?"
"What?"
"It was a toy that he got for his birthday and guess what?....Mom, guess what?"
"What?"
"It shoots these really cool bullets and guess what?"
What?"
"They stuck on the glass at school and he could not get them down and guess what?"
So the conversation continues on and on. I don't know if he needs the validation that I am listening or what but it cracks me up. Sometimes downright frustrating though that he can't tell a simple 30 second story without taking 3 minutes.
J on the other hand...he is repeating the most hilarious phrases he hears from big brother.
The other day I was pulling out his 3 year old clothes. He had never seen all of them so as I held up the Diego shirt, Lightning McQueen shirt, Buzz Lightyear jacket, football shirt, etc. he would say "You gotta be kidding me. That is for me? Really? Are you serious, those are really mine? That is amazing and unbelievable."
Then there is JB just learning all the different inflections that his little voice can make. That sweet cooing as he lays in bed and plays with toys until he falls asleep. The hilarious whining noise he makes when he sees his bottle across the room and you can't get it to him fast enough. The whimper and sound of feet kicking his high chair as we wants you to quickly put another spoonful of food in his mouth. I wonder what his first word will be...
Both B and J are also into the randomly saying "I Love you Mom", which makes everything else all worth it.
"Hey Mom, Guess What?
"What?"
"Today at school Bryston brought this toy and guess what? Guess What?"
"What?"
"It was a toy that he got for his birthday and guess what?....Mom, guess what?"
"What?"
"It shoots these really cool bullets and guess what?"
What?"
"They stuck on the glass at school and he could not get them down and guess what?"
So the conversation continues on and on. I don't know if he needs the validation that I am listening or what but it cracks me up. Sometimes downright frustrating though that he can't tell a simple 30 second story without taking 3 minutes.
J on the other hand...he is repeating the most hilarious phrases he hears from big brother.
The other day I was pulling out his 3 year old clothes. He had never seen all of them so as I held up the Diego shirt, Lightning McQueen shirt, Buzz Lightyear jacket, football shirt, etc. he would say "You gotta be kidding me. That is for me? Really? Are you serious, those are really mine? That is amazing and unbelievable."
Then there is JB just learning all the different inflections that his little voice can make. That sweet cooing as he lays in bed and plays with toys until he falls asleep. The hilarious whining noise he makes when he sees his bottle across the room and you can't get it to him fast enough. The whimper and sound of feet kicking his high chair as we wants you to quickly put another spoonful of food in his mouth. I wonder what his first word will be...
Both B and J are also into the randomly saying "I Love you Mom", which makes everything else all worth it.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Two Ties This Sunday
J has decided to get in on the action. Despite me picking up a few more ties, B still likes his orange and brown one, although I did find some solid colored shirts!
JB...getting close to 6 months already! Still looking like his momma. Speaking of looking like his momma, I was surprised to see quite a few little freckles appearing all across B's nose and cheeks.
JB...getting close to 6 months already! Still looking like his momma. Speaking of looking like his momma, I was surprised to see quite a few little freckles appearing all across B's nose and cheeks.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
After more than 3 years
I have finally finished a project that I have wanted to complete for over 3 years and I am quite excited of the finished project....
It is a t-shirt quilt from all my old t-shirts I could not bring myself to get rid of. (Unfortunately I still have some more in the closet). I found a really great website that showed me how to put it all together, piece by piece. Just this morning I finished it tying it all off. Not sure how durable it will be. I have found a few spots that already need some mending, but it is done!
I also sat down last night with our taxes. Ever since we got married, we have had an accountant do our taxes (I use to work at the office for 5 years). I thought our return was not too complicated (all the major deductions) so went to turbo tax online. If everything I entered was correct, we are due back a very nice refund. However, I am afraid of screwing something up. Anyone else ever use turbo tax or do it yourself? If so, ever run in to problems where an honest mistake was made? At this point it is not a matter of paying the accountant, it is just that it takes them about 3 weeks to get them back to me and then however long to get the refund. If I do it myself I save some money and get the refund in about 1 week.
Also got our electric bill today. Was surprised to see that it was about $15 less than last month ($129 this month-woo hoo). I made two major changes and wonder if that was the reason for a lower bill. We turned our water heater down to about 110-115 (from 123) and the thermostat is set for 61 from 9pm-6am and then is on 67 for the day.
JB has a nasty chest cough. Keep checking his lungs and they sound clear. He does not like the bulb syringe (the other two did not mind it). Whenever I pull it out he starts to squirm, holds his breath and begins gagging.
Woke up this morning to a very cold morning. Was really neat to see a very thick layer of frost/ice on the trees.
It is a t-shirt quilt from all my old t-shirts I could not bring myself to get rid of. (Unfortunately I still have some more in the closet). I found a really great website that showed me how to put it all together, piece by piece. Just this morning I finished it tying it all off. Not sure how durable it will be. I have found a few spots that already need some mending, but it is done!
I also sat down last night with our taxes. Ever since we got married, we have had an accountant do our taxes (I use to work at the office for 5 years). I thought our return was not too complicated (all the major deductions) so went to turbo tax online. If everything I entered was correct, we are due back a very nice refund. However, I am afraid of screwing something up. Anyone else ever use turbo tax or do it yourself? If so, ever run in to problems where an honest mistake was made? At this point it is not a matter of paying the accountant, it is just that it takes them about 3 weeks to get them back to me and then however long to get the refund. If I do it myself I save some money and get the refund in about 1 week.
Also got our electric bill today. Was surprised to see that it was about $15 less than last month ($129 this month-woo hoo). I made two major changes and wonder if that was the reason for a lower bill. We turned our water heater down to about 110-115 (from 123) and the thermostat is set for 61 from 9pm-6am and then is on 67 for the day.
JB has a nasty chest cough. Keep checking his lungs and they sound clear. He does not like the bulb syringe (the other two did not mind it). Whenever I pull it out he starts to squirm, holds his breath and begins gagging.
Woke up this morning to a very cold morning. Was really neat to see a very thick layer of frost/ice on the trees.
Friday, January 22, 2010
and I don't like it
We have had a good quiet last half of the week. This week I decided to try not getting on the computer until at least noon. Amazing how much more productive I was and had better days with the boys. Means I don't always get to be when I would want to because I am on the computer after the boys go to bed, but it is well worth it. I am also knocking out all kinds of projects big and small. I have decided to empty out our linen closet and turn it into my computer 'room'. I won't be able to close myself in it, but it will be my space and I won't have to worry about little hands touching things. It is amazing when I start looking around our place how much I can consolidate and rearrange to gain an extra shelf, etc.
J's favorite phrase right now is "and I don't like it". If anyone does something that does not suit his fancy, he always says "......and I don't like it". Pronouncing each word very distinctly. Tonight he came up and gave me a hug and said "I love you to Alaska, to Pluto and to the sun. That is far"
B wore his orange and brown striped tie today to church again. He wore it this week with a blue and white checkered shirt. I really must find him a few more ties or either some solid colored shirts. As long as he is getting into the looking sharp thing! Once again I can't tell you how many people instantly commented when they saw him. He was grinning ear to ear. We are working with him right now on trying to work things out and not just tattling. A constant thing around the house.
JB has been sleeping about 13 hours at night. He is so sweet when he wakes up. He just lays in bed and plays until I go in there. He most times will talk/play/whine himself to sleep but he really does not need much soothing. He is still a snuggle bug too! No tooth yet but they have to be close because he is constantly biting and chewing on something. He is rolling more and more but I don't think he has totallly figured it out yet.
Off to do some more organizing and put the finishing touches on a few more projects!
J's favorite phrase right now is "and I don't like it". If anyone does something that does not suit his fancy, he always says "......and I don't like it". Pronouncing each word very distinctly. Tonight he came up and gave me a hug and said "I love you to Alaska, to Pluto and to the sun. That is far"
B wore his orange and brown striped tie today to church again. He wore it this week with a blue and white checkered shirt. I really must find him a few more ties or either some solid colored shirts. As long as he is getting into the looking sharp thing! Once again I can't tell you how many people instantly commented when they saw him. He was grinning ear to ear. We are working with him right now on trying to work things out and not just tattling. A constant thing around the house.
JB has been sleeping about 13 hours at night. He is so sweet when he wakes up. He just lays in bed and plays until I go in there. He most times will talk/play/whine himself to sleep but he really does not need much soothing. He is still a snuggle bug too! No tooth yet but they have to be close because he is constantly biting and chewing on something. He is rolling more and more but I don't think he has totallly figured it out yet.
Off to do some more organizing and put the finishing touches on a few more projects!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Surprise Visit
JB goes about 9-10 hours at night now without a bottle. He does ocassionally wake up in the middle of the night when he is dirty or when he rolls himself over and can't get back to sleep. Once he laid in bed for almost an hour and just played and 'coo'ed until he put himself back to sleep. He has has solids now for the last week and is doing very well. Nothing but rice cereal, pears, green beans, squash and avocado. This will be the menu until he turns 6 months in a few weeks.
Here is a picture of the boys and their cousin at the bounce house!
My sister and youngest niece Kenna decided to come out for a visit for my birthday. Kenna is a year older than B. They had a great time playing together. I think Kenna was very glad she has 3 sisters instead of 3 brothers.
Here is a picture of the boys and their cousin at the bounce house!
My sister and youngest niece Kenna decided to come out for a visit for my birthday. Kenna is a year older than B. They had a great time playing together. I think Kenna was very glad she has 3 sisters instead of 3 brothers.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
The TIE
My precious B and his Sunday attire. He was so proud. Several people told me they made his day, when they saw him.
I did put the kabosh on his black spiderman snow boots. That was just too much for me to handle.
I did put the kabosh on his black spiderman snow boots. That was just too much for me to handle.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Birthday
I had a pretty low key birthday yesterday. At this point, low key and uneventful is always nice. We went out for Chinese food. Because the boys had so many chinese donuts and ice cream, we did not do birthday cake when we got home. Tonight the boys decorated the cake and we all dug in.
At the chinese restaurant, several times I walked across the restaurant to the buffet line with B. Both times I was amazed that I could hear J. When you are at the table with him you don't realize how loud he is but boy, his voice sure does carry.
Today we went to a second hand store. While there B saw all the ties. He decided he wanted to buy a tie so he could look sharp on Sunday. (That is the big thing on Sundays...who will look the sharpest.) Well, he really like this one clip on tie. I wanted to encourage him but I told him he did not have a shirt in his closet that would match it. He told me he did and I would see how sharp he looked on Sunday. I am a little nervous because of the tie. I gave him several opportunities to pick out another one, but he always came back to the brown, cream and orangey striped one (something right out of the 70s - but those are in style now, right). So, do I let him totally mismatch on Sunday, but thinking he looks sharp or do I try to find something in the meantime that would sort of match the tie??
The boys also found pairs of boxing gloves and were running around the store pretending to fight each other. I don't know how many times J fell down on the floor, pretending to be knocked out. Then at one point they both walked over to the lingerie rack and proceeded to take just about every bra off the rack and hold it up and say "Mom, do you like this, this is your favorite color." I am so thankful there was no one within ear shot of that!
We hit the cosmetology school for haircuts ($7 can't beat that). Both of the boys for the first time had their hair shampooed in one of the chairs. I wished I had a camera for J. He was really tired so the expression was one of glassy eyes but wide with speculation as to what was going on. He also looked so funny laying back with all of his hair falling back into the sink. All I ever see are curls. Both boys survived and J's hair has lots more curls now that some of the length is off. His hair was 4.5 inches up top.
We hit the mall and the boys loved running in the empty parts. They always get a big kick out of going into the arcade. Amazing how much time they can spend 'playing' games that have no quarters in them. At one point a lady commented on 'three boys'. I kind of sighed as to how exhausting it can be and she immediately said 'what a blessing'. Made me realize yet again, how much I love my boys and although they really frustrate, almost daily, they truly are a huge blessing! No greater job has a human being been given than that of raising children. I have gotten in the habit at nighttime of 'blessing' each of the boys from a passage out of Numbers. "The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord turn His face upon you and grant you His peace." It is neat to hear B remind me some nights if I forget.
At the chinese restaurant, several times I walked across the restaurant to the buffet line with B. Both times I was amazed that I could hear J. When you are at the table with him you don't realize how loud he is but boy, his voice sure does carry.
Today we went to a second hand store. While there B saw all the ties. He decided he wanted to buy a tie so he could look sharp on Sunday. (That is the big thing on Sundays...who will look the sharpest.) Well, he really like this one clip on tie. I wanted to encourage him but I told him he did not have a shirt in his closet that would match it. He told me he did and I would see how sharp he looked on Sunday. I am a little nervous because of the tie. I gave him several opportunities to pick out another one, but he always came back to the brown, cream and orangey striped one (something right out of the 70s - but those are in style now, right). So, do I let him totally mismatch on Sunday, but thinking he looks sharp or do I try to find something in the meantime that would sort of match the tie??
The boys also found pairs of boxing gloves and were running around the store pretending to fight each other. I don't know how many times J fell down on the floor, pretending to be knocked out. Then at one point they both walked over to the lingerie rack and proceeded to take just about every bra off the rack and hold it up and say "Mom, do you like this, this is your favorite color." I am so thankful there was no one within ear shot of that!
We hit the cosmetology school for haircuts ($7 can't beat that). Both of the boys for the first time had their hair shampooed in one of the chairs. I wished I had a camera for J. He was really tired so the expression was one of glassy eyes but wide with speculation as to what was going on. He also looked so funny laying back with all of his hair falling back into the sink. All I ever see are curls. Both boys survived and J's hair has lots more curls now that some of the length is off. His hair was 4.5 inches up top.
We hit the mall and the boys loved running in the empty parts. They always get a big kick out of going into the arcade. Amazing how much time they can spend 'playing' games that have no quarters in them. At one point a lady commented on 'three boys'. I kind of sighed as to how exhausting it can be and she immediately said 'what a blessing'. Made me realize yet again, how much I love my boys and although they really frustrate, almost daily, they truly are a huge blessing! No greater job has a human being been given than that of raising children. I have gotten in the habit at nighttime of 'blessing' each of the boys from a passage out of Numbers. "The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord turn His face upon you and grant you His peace." It is neat to hear B remind me some nights if I forget.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
JR has been shuttling a lot of cars to and from the airport for work. Just about every night the boys and I load up the car to go get him or take him somewhere. They are often in their pajamas and I make them put on shoes, just in case. Recently we got back home and B could not get his shoes off. He had grabbed a pair of J's boots. I told him so after the fact and he said 'but the boots said they were for an 8 year old on the bottom.' That is when I explained to him shoe sizes.
One of the things we do these days is tell each other how much we love them. J's favorite right now is "I love you all the way up to Alaska".
B was eating a chip recently and part of it broke off. He said "Look Mom, it looks like Cousin Larry's state (Idaho)". I still remember the pancake piece he said looked like California.
I am embarrased to say that B tried, for the first time, an orange yesterday. Not that he has never been offered oranges. I guess when you grow up eating mandarin oranges out of a can, you (B) can't deviate. He thought it was okay but did not really care for the 'flesh' part. Thanks to my friend Beth (thanks BA) and her recent success/breakthrough with veggies with her kids, I have started giving them 2-3 veggies on their plate at least once a day. You know what, they often times have eaten them without too much complaining. I have even started eating some of them too! Really looking forward to spring and summer so we can have all the great fresh fruits too. (Hopefully things will survive in Florida).
JB is now big enough to sit up in the playroom swing comfortably. Recently, I grabbed a blanket, pillow and book and curled up in a corner while the boys played/swung. Sure was nice!
I have just looked at the calendar for the rest of January and it is OPEN. Other than school and AWANA, there is nothing on the calendar, at least not at this point. That means lots of pajama mornings, naps, playing games with the boys, reading and cleaning/sorting things.
A recent picture of J and JB. You can still see the faint black eye that J has. It actually is more noticable than it was when it first happened.
One of the things we do these days is tell each other how much we love them. J's favorite right now is "I love you all the way up to Alaska".
B was eating a chip recently and part of it broke off. He said "Look Mom, it looks like Cousin Larry's state (Idaho)". I still remember the pancake piece he said looked like California.
I am embarrased to say that B tried, for the first time, an orange yesterday. Not that he has never been offered oranges. I guess when you grow up eating mandarin oranges out of a can, you (B) can't deviate. He thought it was okay but did not really care for the 'flesh' part. Thanks to my friend Beth (thanks BA) and her recent success/breakthrough with veggies with her kids, I have started giving them 2-3 veggies on their plate at least once a day. You know what, they often times have eaten them without too much complaining. I have even started eating some of them too! Really looking forward to spring and summer so we can have all the great fresh fruits too. (Hopefully things will survive in Florida).
JB is now big enough to sit up in the playroom swing comfortably. Recently, I grabbed a blanket, pillow and book and curled up in a corner while the boys played/swung. Sure was nice!
I have just looked at the calendar for the rest of January and it is OPEN. Other than school and AWANA, there is nothing on the calendar, at least not at this point. That means lots of pajama mornings, naps, playing games with the boys, reading and cleaning/sorting things.
A recent picture of J and JB. You can still see the faint black eye that J has. It actually is more noticable than it was when it first happened.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Quiet
A week has slipped away from me.
B has started back to school. Yesterday when I picked him up from AWANA one of the leaders came over and talked with me. She asked me if he had a photographic memory. I kind of laughed and said he has a great memory. She told me, as I knew, that he is just about done with all of his verses for the year. She has noticed how he has been helping the other kids when they get stuck on their verses. So, between now and May, he will be reviewing everything and will probably become a leader's little helper. Just makes me smile and laugh to think about what does not escape that mind.
J got a shiner over the weekend (tried to take a pic of it but it did not really turn out). He accidentally got hit with a bat. He is so in to how old people are. His saying right now is "When I turn 5 I will be 6". I know makes no sense, but it cracks him up.
JB is 5 months today. Still no solids. He has had a couple of rough nights, not real sure why he is waking up 1-2 times. I try letting him cry it out, but that kid has a stubborn streak (where does that come from).
Other than getting out to take B to and from school and the few necessary errands, we are staying close to home. Not a lot of real cold weather or snow, but just the middle of winter. At least the days are getting longer now!
B has started back to school. Yesterday when I picked him up from AWANA one of the leaders came over and talked with me. She asked me if he had a photographic memory. I kind of laughed and said he has a great memory. She told me, as I knew, that he is just about done with all of his verses for the year. She has noticed how he has been helping the other kids when they get stuck on their verses. So, between now and May, he will be reviewing everything and will probably become a leader's little helper. Just makes me smile and laugh to think about what does not escape that mind.
J got a shiner over the weekend (tried to take a pic of it but it did not really turn out). He accidentally got hit with a bat. He is so in to how old people are. His saying right now is "When I turn 5 I will be 6". I know makes no sense, but it cracks him up.
JB is 5 months today. Still no solids. He has had a couple of rough nights, not real sure why he is waking up 1-2 times. I try letting him cry it out, but that kid has a stubborn streak (where does that come from).
Other than getting out to take B to and from school and the few necessary errands, we are staying close to home. Not a lot of real cold weather or snow, but just the middle of winter. At least the days are getting longer now!
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Ramblins
We have a new friend around the house....Mazie. We are watching some friends' dog for the long weekend. Not sure her specific breeding but has some setter and probably australian shephard in her. The boys were so excited. Mazie was checking out the house and the boys were so frustrated she would not stop long enough to lay on their floor to sleep. Should be an interesting weekend. JR has wanted a dog for a very long time. (I adamantly disagree right now until we have a bigger yard and he and I agree on some of the ground rules of having a dog around.) B is allergic to dogs, although he has yet to be affected by being around one. J is quite scared of dogs, regardless of size. Not sure where his fear comes from but will be a fun little trial run for us...to see if we could even entertain the thought of a dog.
Took the Christmas tree down today. I don't mind putting any of the Christmas stuff away, but the one thing I always miss is the glow of the lights on the tree. I love getting up early in the morning, curling up under a blanket on the couch and looking at the lights. As we drug the tree outside, it left a wonderful pine scent all over the room! Putting up Christmas stuff though always motivates to do a spring cleaning of sorts, so maybe I can push on with more purging of stuff.
JB has now rolled over twice, from his stomach to his back. I think both times it surprised him. He is laughing so much these days and it is just about time to break out his 6 months clothes. He definitely is ahead of the other boys in length.
J was making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich today all by himself. He insisted so I figured why not. Later I found 3 butter knives, still with PB&J on them slid into the wooden block with the rest of the steak knives. I just had to laugh. Then later that day they were painting and he had paint all over the floor, table, shirt and couch. JR has been driving a lot of vehicles back and forth to the airport. This has meant that just about every night for the last 10 days or so we have had to go pick him up somewhere and then take him to get another vehicle. It never fails, every time in the car B always says "Dad, guess what J did TODAY". My precious middle son. It it can break, he will break it. If it can spill, he will spill it. If he can get hurt on it, he will get hurt. So, often I try to discipline him when he needs it but when he gives me that sideways glance, with that mop of a hair (it has not been cut in 5 months), I crater.
One of the things the two older boys have started doing is wearing one of JRs shirts as pajamas. They drag the ground but they just love it. They also love to play with the rings on my cell phone. To see them running and dancing around the house with those shirts on as the different rings play, is priceless. Again, those very small things that I am so glad I am a part of daily, since God has allowed me to stay home with the boys.
B has taken to calling J "Jake". It brings such a smile to my face to hear it, but it sure makes J sound like a big boy! B has been complaining of a head ache on and off for a few days and today I asked him why he thought his head hurt. Without missing a beat he said "because I have not been laying around watching movies. You see, when I don't lay around and watch movies my head hurts." I wish I could get away with his reasoning.
Some friends are coming over tomorrow night with their 3 kids for pizza and to help ring in the new year, or at least help usher it to the front steps. Not sure how long any of us will last, but sure will be fun to have a house full.
Looking forward to an amazing 2010 and what God has in store for us.
Took the Christmas tree down today. I don't mind putting any of the Christmas stuff away, but the one thing I always miss is the glow of the lights on the tree. I love getting up early in the morning, curling up under a blanket on the couch and looking at the lights. As we drug the tree outside, it left a wonderful pine scent all over the room! Putting up Christmas stuff though always motivates to do a spring cleaning of sorts, so maybe I can push on with more purging of stuff.
JB has now rolled over twice, from his stomach to his back. I think both times it surprised him. He is laughing so much these days and it is just about time to break out his 6 months clothes. He definitely is ahead of the other boys in length.
J was making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich today all by himself. He insisted so I figured why not. Later I found 3 butter knives, still with PB&J on them slid into the wooden block with the rest of the steak knives. I just had to laugh. Then later that day they were painting and he had paint all over the floor, table, shirt and couch. JR has been driving a lot of vehicles back and forth to the airport. This has meant that just about every night for the last 10 days or so we have had to go pick him up somewhere and then take him to get another vehicle. It never fails, every time in the car B always says "Dad, guess what J did TODAY". My precious middle son. It it can break, he will break it. If it can spill, he will spill it. If he can get hurt on it, he will get hurt. So, often I try to discipline him when he needs it but when he gives me that sideways glance, with that mop of a hair (it has not been cut in 5 months), I crater.
One of the things the two older boys have started doing is wearing one of JRs shirts as pajamas. They drag the ground but they just love it. They also love to play with the rings on my cell phone. To see them running and dancing around the house with those shirts on as the different rings play, is priceless. Again, those very small things that I am so glad I am a part of daily, since God has allowed me to stay home with the boys.
B has taken to calling J "Jake". It brings such a smile to my face to hear it, but it sure makes J sound like a big boy! B has been complaining of a head ache on and off for a few days and today I asked him why he thought his head hurt. Without missing a beat he said "because I have not been laying around watching movies. You see, when I don't lay around and watch movies my head hurts." I wish I could get away with his reasoning.
Some friends are coming over tomorrow night with their 3 kids for pizza and to help ring in the new year, or at least help usher it to the front steps. Not sure how long any of us will last, but sure will be fun to have a house full.
Looking forward to an amazing 2010 and what God has in store for us.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Sledding
Despite the cold temperatures that are hanging on, we got out this weekend and enjoyed the sun and fresh air. B learned first hand how you should never turn your back to a sledding hill. He got taken out by a 3 year old on a sled. Did a total face plant. I was concerned as I ran over to him, but saw no blood!
We also hit the ice skating rink again. Boy, my legs sure were wobbly. It did not come back to me as quickly as I hoped but am proud to say I stayed on my feet and did not hit the ice.
Looks like the next 10 days there will be one day of a high of 33 and one day a high of 35. The lows will be in the teens. I am ready for some 40 degree days! Guess we will continue to get creative with indoor things that burn energy!
We also hit the ice skating rink again. Boy, my legs sure were wobbly. It did not come back to me as quickly as I hoped but am proud to say I stayed on my feet and did not hit the ice.
Looks like the next 10 days there will be one day of a high of 33 and one day a high of 35. The lows will be in the teens. I am ready for some 40 degree days! Guess we will continue to get creative with indoor things that burn energy!
Friday, December 25, 2009
Happy Birthday Jesus!!!
Today a Savior is born.
What a totally laidback day we have had. We are actually still in our pajamas and from all looks of it, that is where we will stay until bedtime. The boys have been playing most of the day with JB napping on and off.
Has been a pretty quite couple of weeks. We did get out on the ice skates yesterday. B did pretty well. After about 15 minutes he was starting to find his balance. J had fun just walking in the snow. Hopefully it will warm up in the next couple of days and we can get back out there, maybe with camera in tow.
We went sledding with some friends recently. J and I made one run and he was done. There was a little bit of fresh snow and as we went down the hill, it blew in our faces. J's curls were peeking out of his hat and with the cold air, the snow in his hair was turning to ice. It gave me a good excuse to sit in the car with the heater one while watching B.
We went sledding with some friends recently. J and I made one run and he was done. There was a little bit of fresh snow and as we went down the hill, it blew in our faces. J's curls were peeking out of his hat and with the cold air, the snow in his hair was turning to ice. It gave me a good excuse to sit in the car with the heater one while watching B.
The boys have enjoyed the climbing wall. The holds are such that they are easily rotated and moved around, so always proving to be a challenge. Both of the boys are now somewhat comfortable going all the way to the top. Here are a few pictures!
Could not get all three of them sitting still at the same time...
JB is doing great. I have started him on a formula with rice starch in it to help him sleep at night. (He was still stirring 2-3 times a night). He is often sleeping 9 hours at night now! I have not started solids yet, and will probably wait another couple of weeks on that. He has not yet surprised himself by rolling over. He is working on the tripod pose (sitting up by himself as he leans forward on his hands). He is very proficient at finding his mouth, whether with a toy or the bottle. He has very strong opinions when he is hungry and tired and screams unlike either of the other two. He enjoys his swing up in the playroom and is mesmerized by the colors on the tv.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
baking
Not real sure what we have been doing the last week or so. Certainly not taking any pictures!
I have been doing a lot of baking...unfortunately I made several different kinds of cookies, doubling or tripling each of the recipes, but for various reasons did not like how they turned out. So, we have lots of sweets around! I tried homemade fudge. I made a double batch, in two different pots. One was good the other boiled over and never got to the right temperature. I tried another batch, this time tripling the recipe and boiling it an extra 5 minutes, and finally have something I am comfortable putting on a plate and giving to others.
Bought the boys and I used ice skates today and hoping to hit one of the 'neighborhood' outdoor rinks tomorrow. They are very excited! Also got the climbing wall up in the playroom today(they have not discovered it yet) and hung JB's swing up there. So, there should be plenty of pictures and video forthcoming!
We are all looking forward to celebrating the birth of our Savior and Lord in 3 days!! I wonder if we let the boys stay up late if they will sleep in on Christmas morning?
I have been doing a lot of baking...unfortunately I made several different kinds of cookies, doubling or tripling each of the recipes, but for various reasons did not like how they turned out. So, we have lots of sweets around! I tried homemade fudge. I made a double batch, in two different pots. One was good the other boiled over and never got to the right temperature. I tried another batch, this time tripling the recipe and boiling it an extra 5 minutes, and finally have something I am comfortable putting on a plate and giving to others.
Bought the boys and I used ice skates today and hoping to hit one of the 'neighborhood' outdoor rinks tomorrow. They are very excited! Also got the climbing wall up in the playroom today(they have not discovered it yet) and hung JB's swing up there. So, there should be plenty of pictures and video forthcoming!
We are all looking forward to celebrating the birth of our Savior and Lord in 3 days!! I wonder if we let the boys stay up late if they will sleep in on Christmas morning?
Monday, December 14, 2009
Videos
B had his Christmas program yesterday at school. Before the program we went into his classroom to help out. They were playing Christmas music and the first song was "Rudolph". I started singing with the music and little Makayla looks over at me and says "How do you know that song?" I told her I use to sing it when I was her age. Her eyes got big and she said "you use to be my age??" Those kids are a hoot. I sure do have a great appreciation for teachers, especially kindergarten teachers.
Had an energy audit done of the house today. They said we are sitting pretty good. He did confirm that running the dishwasher should only cost about 2-3 dollars a month, so I can start using it again. (The last month I tried using the dishwasher, versus hand washing, my electric bill was high but must have been something else). A little known trivia fact I learned, that a person produces about 1 gallon of humidity a week. So, other than insulating our attic hatch and putting in outlet covers, we are good.
Been laying low, not getting out much. I have intended to download some videos and finally got around to it. Could not figure out how to put/splice them all together yet, so here are 2 short videos.
Had an energy audit done of the house today. They said we are sitting pretty good. He did confirm that running the dishwasher should only cost about 2-3 dollars a month, so I can start using it again. (The last month I tried using the dishwasher, versus hand washing, my electric bill was high but must have been something else). A little known trivia fact I learned, that a person produces about 1 gallon of humidity a week. So, other than insulating our attic hatch and putting in outlet covers, we are good.
Been laying low, not getting out much. I have intended to download some videos and finally got around to it. Could not figure out how to put/splice them all together yet, so here are 2 short videos.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Comparison
I lost it today. Totally lost it. For someone who is pretty organized and hates being rushed or late anywhere, I cannot 'master' the school mornings. Every morning rolls around and I think we are gonna get out of the house a few minutes early and it never fails...last minute we are trying to find one shoe or one glove or a coat. It happened again this morning and I went on a mommy rage. (Never mind if it had been either of the boys I would have spanked them and sent them to their room for a long time out - too bad they could not do that to me.) I don't know why but yelling never solves anything but it sure makes me feel better for the moment. We finally all got in the car and I apologized to them and asked for their forgiveness. I thought all was forgotten. No, later that day I heard J downstairs yelling at no one in particular. 'I am so FRUSTRATED with you. You get over here RIGHT NOW..RIGHT NOW'. He continued yelling and I thought it was cute until I realized he was repeating everything I had said that morning. Nothing like a child to be a perfect reflection of what they see at home. One of the verses B and I have memorized is "a soft answer turns away wrath". I have told them they have permission to encourage me with that verse when I get loud, but I guess they don't quite get it yet.
I dug up pictures of all three of the boys around 4 months old. Fun to see the differences and similarities
At 4 months B was 15.4 pounds, 25 1/4 inches long and head circumference was 43.7cm.
At 4 months J was 14.6 pounds, 24 1/2 inches long and head circumference was 42 cm.
At 4 months JB was 12.7 pounds, 25 1/2 inches long and head circumference was 40 cm.
So, although JB appears pretty chubby, he is much longer, much lighter and a much smaller head.
J's favorite holiday movie right now is "Frosty the Reindeer" Just cracks me up.
Yesterday we were -15 but a warming trend is coming! Fortunately we have not had any of the wind! Been staying indoors and doing lots of baking!
I dug up pictures of all three of the boys around 4 months old. Fun to see the differences and similarities
At 4 months B was 15.4 pounds, 25 1/4 inches long and head circumference was 43.7cm.
At 4 months J was 14.6 pounds, 24 1/2 inches long and head circumference was 42 cm.
At 4 months JB was 12.7 pounds, 25 1/2 inches long and head circumference was 40 cm.
So, although JB appears pretty chubby, he is much longer, much lighter and a much smaller head.
J's favorite holiday movie right now is "Frosty the Reindeer" Just cracks me up.
Yesterday we were -15 but a warming trend is coming! Fortunately we have not had any of the wind! Been staying indoors and doing lots of baking!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Cold
Just had to snap a picture of our alarm clock that shows the outside temperature. I hear it is headed some of y'alls way....bundle up!
Happy 4 months
Today is the 4 month mark of my arrival.
Things here are awesome. I sleep when I want to sleep and eat when I want to eat. I am often startled with the volume of my 2 big brothers but I sure do love to watch their antics. I appreciate B's gentle voice as he talks to me and have come to appreciate J's wet kisses and sudden outbursts of energy. I have found my feet and can spend a lot of time playing with them. My goal is to one day get them in my mouth! I am getting really good at grabbing things, particularly my mom's hair. I love laughing out loud when I am tickled. I still am getting my mom up a few times at night, but sure do enjoy the one on one time. I am quickly soothed by "Jesus Loves Me" and find it easiest to fall asleep to some of the great lullabies/classical/hymns that are playing beside my bed. It is getting really cold out and learning to like my hats and have my car seat covered up. (I hear the wind chills the next couple of days could reach -20.) I love to play dog pile with my brothers and dad and sometimes my dad and I will chase the other two around the house. I can stare at the Christmas tree lights for long periods of time.
Looking forward to the next four months, when I will start sleeping all night (my mom is hopeful), holding my own bottle, sitting up by myself, getting my first tooth, getting to eat real food and mastering the army crawl. Or maybe I will skip the crawling and go straight to running to keep up with my brothers.
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