Maura lost her first tooth on December 22, 2010. Her two bottom teeth were loose for a while. I thought it would happen any day for the last month. She was hoping it would happen any day for the last six months. It seemed her baby teeth really liked her mouth as they stuck around pretty long. It was getting pretty disheartening to her that all her friends (most younger) were losing their teeth, then her little cousin Caitlin, then to really rub it in Chloe (Mag's bff) lost hers! So I told her, in desperation, the longer they stayed in, the better the "prize" from the Tooth Fairy. ell, that made her a little happier.
This last week they were very loose. I mean sideways in her mouth loose. On Wednesday she stayed at the Y to swim with her cousins and it was barely holding on. Luckily they rushed home where she yelled for me to run downstairs. I did and she showed me sideways-barely-holding-on-bloody tooth. She calmly said she was going to take it out. And she did... just pulled it right out.
The next day her second tooth fell out. She kept both on her shelf. She wanted to put them under her pillow Christmas Eve (I may have mentioned how cool that would be). So the Tooth Fairy and Santa left her a little something. Mags collected the Fairy Dust left behind by the fairy (Maura did not notice that, just the golden coins and moo-lah). I hope it was worth the wait.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Bye Bye Lights
Kerri loves her some Christmas lights. Unfortunately for her we do not live in Havertown anymore where lights (especially colored ones) were plentiful and blow up Christmas decorations adorned every other yard. Round these parts it is beautiful, but in a white lights and red bows kind of way. Still, she loves it. As we drive she yells LIGHTS, LIGHTS, LIGHTS as we drive by, you guessed it, a house with lights, then yells, just as loudly BYE LIGHTS right after we pass them. Repeat. This is fun to hear, because I was reading past blogs this evening, and I was reminded at how quiet our little Ker-Bear used to be. Things have indeed changed. She likes to be heard now. And I like to hear her.
Not a creature was stirring, especially not Mags.
On Christmas Eve (while daddy was balled up in our bed with the flu) Maggie and I checked the Internet (NORAD) to see where Santa was. Well, he was somewhere in Africa. When I showed Mags how close he was to the "water" (aka Atlantic Ocean) and how we were just on the other side, she immediately decided she wanted to go to bed. It was 5:30 pm. We had not eaten dinner, had dessert- which I had just let them pick out since our annual Christmas Eve dinner with the Smiths was called off sue to illness- written our letter to Santa, put out cookies... you get it, we had not done any of the Christmas Eve prep that goes on when you have little ones. None of that mattered. Maggie was going to bed She ran up the stairs, brushed her teeth, threw on her Christmas jammies, which she previously refused to wear because she did not like the cut of them, but was too nervous to worry about that now, and was asleep by 5:45.
The rest of the girls were asleep by 8:00, but there is really no evidence of Christmas Eve night in our house. With Daddy being sick and Mags in bed.. well, the documentation just did not happen. Maura wrote a great note to Santa, making sure he knew that she had not one, but two teeth under her pillow. We fed Santa and the reindeer. We said goodbye to the elf. We read 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. And then all was quiet... for ten minutes. Then the hard work began. The tooth fairy was nice enough to write a nice letter to Maura and leave Fairy dust. Santa also wrote a few letters, one for the teeth, one for the cookies. The elf had to too. Boy, they should have thought about writing them a little sooner, so as not to have to do it all in one night. The presents appeared, by that time daddy was able to get out of bed and help Santa carry the larger items... like the three story doll house! And then 9:23 came along and all was quiet again. It's a Wonderful Life was watched by the fire light. Wine was poured (for me, not sicky) and it hit me... Life Really is Good... real good!
The rest of the girls were asleep by 8:00, but there is really no evidence of Christmas Eve night in our house. With Daddy being sick and Mags in bed.. well, the documentation just did not happen. Maura wrote a great note to Santa, making sure he knew that she had not one, but two teeth under her pillow. We fed Santa and the reindeer. We said goodbye to the elf. We read 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. And then all was quiet... for ten minutes. Then the hard work began. The tooth fairy was nice enough to write a nice letter to Maura and leave Fairy dust. Santa also wrote a few letters, one for the teeth, one for the cookies. The elf had to too. Boy, they should have thought about writing them a little sooner, so as not to have to do it all in one night. The presents appeared, by that time daddy was able to get out of bed and help Santa carry the larger items... like the three story doll house! And then 9:23 came along and all was quiet again. It's a Wonderful Life was watched by the fire light. Wine was poured (for me, not sicky) and it hit me... Life Really is Good... real good!
Bye bye crib.
Dear Crib,
You have served us well these 6 years and 4 months. Never was there a time you got to rest. Never did you get put on hold, never did you go in a spare room. For a while you were joined by a second crib. The two of you worked well together, keeping young children safe while sleeping, but it is sad to say, it is time for you to go.
Sean lovingly dismantled you (just as lovingly and carefully as he assembled you, I am sure) yesterday. You are resting comfortably in the attic, and our "baby" Kerri is resting comfortably in her full sized bed complete with feather bed and down comforter. Not that you were not comfortable hard, plastic, crib mattress, but let me just tell you that Kerri dove into her new bed last night and slept twelve hours until her sisters came and woke her up. She is now napping soundly.
I must say, crib, as well as you have served us, I do have one complaint, by the age of 2 years and 1 month (some sooner, none later), all of my children were easily scaling your walls. I am not sure if the blame lies in you or in the DNA make up of my children (obviously fault of Sean and I) but it does seem quite suspicious that all four easily climbed right out of you. I have heard rumor and legend of other children staying in their cribs until 3, sometimes 4 years of age!
We have put you away faithful ol' crib. Not sure if you will be taken out again or passed on to someone else, but please know you were loved and appreciated.
Autumn (the mom)
You have served us well these 6 years and 4 months. Never was there a time you got to rest. Never did you get put on hold, never did you go in a spare room. For a while you were joined by a second crib. The two of you worked well together, keeping young children safe while sleeping, but it is sad to say, it is time for you to go.
Sean lovingly dismantled you (just as lovingly and carefully as he assembled you, I am sure) yesterday. You are resting comfortably in the attic, and our "baby" Kerri is resting comfortably in her full sized bed complete with feather bed and down comforter. Not that you were not comfortable hard, plastic, crib mattress, but let me just tell you that Kerri dove into her new bed last night and slept twelve hours until her sisters came and woke her up. She is now napping soundly.
I must say, crib, as well as you have served us, I do have one complaint, by the age of 2 years and 1 month (some sooner, none later), all of my children were easily scaling your walls. I am not sure if the blame lies in you or in the DNA make up of my children (obviously fault of Sean and I) but it does seem quite suspicious that all four easily climbed right out of you. I have heard rumor and legend of other children staying in their cribs until 3, sometimes 4 years of age!
We have put you away faithful ol' crib. Not sure if you will be taken out again or passed on to someone else, but please know you were loved and appreciated.
Autumn (the mom)
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Kerri is Two
Well, our little KJ has turned two years old. It seems like she just all of a sudden became a big girl. I know it was happening all along, but bam, I turned around, and there she was, doing all the things her sisters do and talking up a storm.
She had a small little "party" with B, Jimmy and Brady at our house while the older kids went to make gingerbread houses. Later that night we had my parents and Sue over for another party. She loved it. At first she did not quite understand the idea of the gifts, but she soon figured out that these were her HER new baby dolls! She got about four new dolls, a leapfrog letter writer, a car, a car ramp/garage, a crib for her dolls and a pillow pet. She loved it all.
Kerri is very independent. If she wants a drink, she very well might get it herself. She can get out the cups, find a lid, go to the sink, pull over the step stool, and poor herself a glass of water. She may leave the water on, but let's not get picky!
She also knows exactly what she wants and when she wants it. If she can not clearly tell you what she wants, or you are not moving fast enough, she will grab your hand/arm/leg/shirt and pull you to it.
She has a hearty laugh. It is contagious. She really can't help but smile when you hear her laughing. She is very ticklish so it is easy to get her to laugh.
She loves her sisters and loves to help them. She calls Maura, raura. She calls Maggie, uggie. She calls Bridgey, didgey. It is very cute to hear her calling their names. She loves bringing stuff to them too. She is a great delivery girl.
She loves to snuggle. She will lie on your chest as long as you will let her. She used to love going to bed and would practically dive in. This was until recently. She now gets out of her crib, turns on her light and changes her clothes all by herself. I said she was independent.
She works hard for her sisters' approval, but won't think twice about whacking one of them in the head if they do something not nice, especially to another sister.
She loves Jay and all things dogs. Her favorite book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear. Maggie and Maura "read" it to her over and over again.
KJ you make me laugh. You are always ready to go, go, go. I never have to ask you twice to get your coat or shoes on. You are the first one at the door ready to go. You do get shy sometimes, and when you do, you get a littel scowl on your face... you look mad.
I love watching you grow and learn. I look forward to seeing what new mischief you will get into tomorrow, because I am sure there will be some.
She had a small little "party" with B, Jimmy and Brady at our house while the older kids went to make gingerbread houses. Later that night we had my parents and Sue over for another party. She loved it. At first she did not quite understand the idea of the gifts, but she soon figured out that these were her HER new baby dolls! She got about four new dolls, a leapfrog letter writer, a car, a car ramp/garage, a crib for her dolls and a pillow pet. She loved it all.
Kerri is very independent. If she wants a drink, she very well might get it herself. She can get out the cups, find a lid, go to the sink, pull over the step stool, and poor herself a glass of water. She may leave the water on, but let's not get picky!
She also knows exactly what she wants and when she wants it. If she can not clearly tell you what she wants, or you are not moving fast enough, she will grab your hand/arm/leg/shirt and pull you to it.
She has a hearty laugh. It is contagious. She really can't help but smile when you hear her laughing. She is very ticklish so it is easy to get her to laugh.
She loves her sisters and loves to help them. She calls Maura, raura. She calls Maggie, uggie. She calls Bridgey, didgey. It is very cute to hear her calling their names. She loves bringing stuff to them too. She is a great delivery girl.
She loves to snuggle. She will lie on your chest as long as you will let her. She used to love going to bed and would practically dive in. This was until recently. She now gets out of her crib, turns on her light and changes her clothes all by herself. I said she was independent.
She works hard for her sisters' approval, but won't think twice about whacking one of them in the head if they do something not nice, especially to another sister.
She loves Jay and all things dogs. Her favorite book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear. Maggie and Maura "read" it to her over and over again.
KJ you make me laugh. You are always ready to go, go, go. I never have to ask you twice to get your coat or shoes on. You are the first one at the door ready to go. You do get shy sometimes, and when you do, you get a littel scowl on your face... you look mad.
I love watching you grow and learn. I look forward to seeing what new mischief you will get into tomorrow, because I am sure there will be some.
Christmas Shows
Mags performed in her concert this year. She did great. She mouthed all the words and did all the motions. This is a huge improvement from a year ago. Last year she would not even walk (or let us push/carry/pull her) through the doorway. She made us a beautiful wreath of handprints. She was very proud to show off all the stuff in her room. She also loved being with her Friends. I am loving this year for her.
B also had her show. She proudly walked in her room. She did not bother much to mouth the words, but she did do most of the motions. She too made a beautiful wreath and an ornament for the tree. Very special. We were lucky that Sue could come to Maggie's show and Sue and Tim both came to B's show (my parents were sick). We were also lucky Kerri could make it, as she had a belly bug (that cricket) the day before.
B also had her show. She proudly walked in her room. She did not bother much to mouth the words, but she did do most of the motions. She too made a beautiful wreath and an ornament for the tree. Very special. We were lucky that Sue could come to Maggie's show and Sue and Tim both came to B's show (my parents were sick). We were also lucky Kerri could make it, as she had a belly bug (that cricket) the day before.
Funny Bridgey!
Our B has grown into quite the comedian. She loves to dance and sing silly songs... if you'll laugh. She loves a good knock, knock joke. Sometimes she is the funniest when she is not trying to be funny at all. Here is a conversation in the car the other day.
Mom: Be nice the Kerri; she is sick.
B: Why is she sick, Mom?
Mom: She caught a little bug in her tummy.
B: Oh, did she swallow one of those crickets from the basement?
Mom: Be nice the Kerri; she is sick.
B: Why is she sick, Mom?
Mom: She caught a little bug in her tummy.
B: Oh, did she swallow one of those crickets from the basement?
Friday, December 10, 2010
Life is Sweet
We just got back from Hershey Park. It was a "birthday gift" for Kerri, but the poor thing got sick and could not go. I felt badly at first, but after going, she was much better off at my parents' warm house, rather than in 30 degree weather shoved... I mean bundled oh so tenderly, in a stroller. We went withe the Smith family, so everyone was very excited. I think B might have been the most excited to have a "sleepover" with Brady, as she has been asking for one for weeks.
It was a fun time, a meltdown or two, but mostly lots of fun, especially considering it was 32degrees outside! When the girls saw Santa they all froze and the only thing they could say they wanted was: Maura: toys; Maggie: toys; Bridget:toys... not very helpful for Mommy elf!
I think swimming in the hotel pool and the breakfast buffets were the biggest hits. Overall, a sweet time was had in the sweetest place on earth!
It was a fun time, a meltdown or two, but mostly lots of fun, especially considering it was 32degrees outside! When the girls saw Santa they all froze and the only thing they could say they wanted was: Maura: toys; Maggie: toys; Bridget:toys... not very helpful for Mommy elf!
I think swimming in the hotel pool and the breakfast buffets were the biggest hits. Overall, a sweet time was had in the sweetest place on earth!
Monday, October 11, 2010
How did that happen?
How did all my girls grow up so much, so fast?
In the last couple of months it seems that each of the girls has really made some great strides.
Kerri is just adding a word or two to her vocabulary everyday. She is running around and doing exactly what her sisters are doing... especially climbing. She loves to play in the play kitchen, all by herself. She especially loves going through the drawers in the bathroom and taking everything out. She wishes she could ride in the booster seat and many times screams and fights with me when I try to put her in her car seat. She loves to put on and take off her shoes, or any one's shoes that happen to be around.
B is singing her little heart out. And she is singing songs like the Barbie themes that Maura sings. It is so cute to see her running around the back yard belting out her tunes. She is taking ballet now, and is just so adorable! She loves to sing the ABC's.
Mags has just blossomed into a great student. She loves to practice her handwriting. She really gets better each week. She also loves doing math now. She is really good at adding and loves to practice it often. She loves to go to school still... and especially loves to go to ballet. One cute Maggie-ism is that she now says she wants to build a square-cwow. I love her little words!
Maura is just really independent. She runs off to school every day happy as can be. She loves to have playdates with her new good friend Sophia. If she could she would every day. Her handwriting has gotten much better too. She does have handwriting homework every night, so that is helping. I do think she is a little bored with some of the stuff she is doing in school, but she has not really complained at all.
I love these girls! I just wish they would stop growing up so darn fast!
In the last couple of months it seems that each of the girls has really made some great strides.
Kerri is just adding a word or two to her vocabulary everyday. She is running around and doing exactly what her sisters are doing... especially climbing. She loves to play in the play kitchen, all by herself. She especially loves going through the drawers in the bathroom and taking everything out. She wishes she could ride in the booster seat and many times screams and fights with me when I try to put her in her car seat. She loves to put on and take off her shoes, or any one's shoes that happen to be around.
B is singing her little heart out. And she is singing songs like the Barbie themes that Maura sings. It is so cute to see her running around the back yard belting out her tunes. She is taking ballet now, and is just so adorable! She loves to sing the ABC's.
Mags has just blossomed into a great student. She loves to practice her handwriting. She really gets better each week. She also loves doing math now. She is really good at adding and loves to practice it often. She loves to go to school still... and especially loves to go to ballet. One cute Maggie-ism is that she now says she wants to build a square-cwow. I love her little words!
Maura is just really independent. She runs off to school every day happy as can be. She loves to have playdates with her new good friend Sophia. If she could she would every day. Her handwriting has gotten much better too. She does have handwriting homework every night, so that is helping. I do think she is a little bored with some of the stuff she is doing in school, but she has not really complained at all.
I love these girls! I just wish they would stop growing up so darn fast!
Monday, September 27, 2010
Happy Birthday Maura!
Dear Maura,
You are six years old. This is a big year for you. You started kindergarten and are playing on your first sports' team (the Snowflakes-soccer). You have met many new people at your school, but always insist that your best friends are still your first friends, Isabel and Maria.
I am really proud of the little girl you are becoming. You are confident. You are basically kind. You are funny. And you are smart. Oh, and I guess you are pretty cute too, although if I call you cute, you will yell at me, because you-do-not-like-the-word-cute!
You are also creative. Sometimes, maybe a little too creative. You are great at weaving a tale, even when you really should not be. We always take what you say a little less than literally.
You can really make me laugh. And sometimes, you can even drive me crazy. You get easily distracted and could spend hours, doing "nothing" at all. Of course to you, it really is something.
You love to be the center of attention when it is not planned. You can keep a room laughing for an hour. However, when I asked you if you wanted to take a theater class at the Y you said no, because you get stage fright.
You love to dance around the house and sing. You can really hold a tune. I am always impressed by that ability... one I wish I had.
i really love watching you grow up. I love watching you run around on the soccer field... and score goals and get to to do the special high five... your favorite part! I love that you love you daddy and spend special nights with him at soccer where he coaches you. I love that you answer people confidently and look them right in the eye. I love that you are not afraid to take a class or go to a party where you don't know anyone.. because, as you say, you'll meet them. I just love the little, well bigger, girl you are becoming and I look forward to watching you grow and change (but not too much!)
Love,
Mommy
You are six years old. This is a big year for you. You started kindergarten and are playing on your first sports' team (the Snowflakes-soccer). You have met many new people at your school, but always insist that your best friends are still your first friends, Isabel and Maria.
I am really proud of the little girl you are becoming. You are confident. You are basically kind. You are funny. And you are smart. Oh, and I guess you are pretty cute too, although if I call you cute, you will yell at me, because you-do-not-like-the-word-cute!
You are also creative. Sometimes, maybe a little too creative. You are great at weaving a tale, even when you really should not be. We always take what you say a little less than literally.
You can really make me laugh. And sometimes, you can even drive me crazy. You get easily distracted and could spend hours, doing "nothing" at all. Of course to you, it really is something.
You love to be the center of attention when it is not planned. You can keep a room laughing for an hour. However, when I asked you if you wanted to take a theater class at the Y you said no, because you get stage fright.
You love to dance around the house and sing. You can really hold a tune. I am always impressed by that ability... one I wish I had.
i really love watching you grow up. I love watching you run around on the soccer field... and score goals and get to to do the special high five... your favorite part! I love that you love you daddy and spend special nights with him at soccer where he coaches you. I love that you answer people confidently and look them right in the eye. I love that you are not afraid to take a class or go to a party where you don't know anyone.. because, as you say, you'll meet them. I just love the little, well bigger, girl you are becoming and I look forward to watching you grow and change (but not too much!)
Love,
Mommy
A whole new year
Yes, in our house, we do new years in September. I mean the change of date is cool in January, but that really is the only thing that changes. August to September, that is a whole new ball game.
August was crazy, in a lazy sort of way. We were away for three weeks!! Yes, three weeks of vacation... how lucky is that. We did one week in Hilton Head with the Shorts and two weeks in Avalon with the O'Reillys. All three weeks were very fun and very busy. I was planning to do a lot of running to "train" for my half marathon in September, but I think I ran all of 3 times on vacation. It may be vacation, but apparently you still have to watch your kids.
We came back three days before Kindergarten started. I am not sure why, but I WAS A WRECK. not, I cried a little, or a lot. I mean a total wreck. I had serious stomach issues from Sunday until Thursday. I was not able to sleep more than three hours a night, and the sleep I did get, I dreamed about forgetting to pick a kid up from school or screwing up the carpool line. Luckily, through the help of a lot of friends and family, Sean and I were both able to go to everything important leading up to school starting. And Sean was able to walk Maura to school with me on her first day. She could not have been more excited. She literally was pulling us to the car. We dropped her off at the entrance and she walked right in, no turning back, until the nice lady at the door reminded her to wave goodbye to Mom and Dad. That was a mistake because I was already sobbing at that point. But I put on a smile and waved through the tears.
I then had to take Mags to her Life Stories at preschool... which is basically a meet the teacher. I am not exaggerating when I say, I sobbed to the teacher. So much so that I was not able to even apologize for sobbing. Luckily the teacher knows me. I then picked Maura up from school, ran home and dropped her off (my mom was still there from the morning) took B to her Life Stories (only a few tear ups this time). Came home, picked up Mags, took her to ballet. Came home, fed the girls a quick dinner and got Maura ready for soccer practice. So, after typing this, I am pretty sure the stomach un-easiness was not only about M's first day of kindergarten, but my anxiety about having to be in two places at once.
Pick up for Maura is at 11:40 and pickup for mags and B is at 11:45. And they are not less than 3 minutes apart. However, once again as a result of wonderful friends and the wonderful world of carpooling... it is all working out. I am sleeping again. And my stomach is back to normal.
All the girls are loving everything this year. B and Mags are taking ballet... absolutely adorable. Maura is tearing up the soccer field- 4 goals to date, and a game ball to boot. They love going to school every morning. As a matter of fact we are often too early for school because they are so excited to get out of the door. I am so happy for Mags, after a not great, (not bad, but not great) year last year, she really seems to be in her element this year.
Life is still crazy. They still whine and complain. They even fight and yell at each other (and me). But overall, everyone seems happy. I ran my half marathon to my shock, and now I am back to working out, so that even makes me happy. Sean is doing great. He is super busy at work. A good thing in this economy, and taking classes at Villanova on Monday nights. He really has stepped up his husband of the year game, and been very helpful and supportive lately. Not that he always wasn't, but the word VERY is stressed.
B and I are heading to Arkansas this weekend. I am really excited to see everyone out there. It is always so fun to get together with family. I can't wait.
August was crazy, in a lazy sort of way. We were away for three weeks!! Yes, three weeks of vacation... how lucky is that. We did one week in Hilton Head with the Shorts and two weeks in Avalon with the O'Reillys. All three weeks were very fun and very busy. I was planning to do a lot of running to "train" for my half marathon in September, but I think I ran all of 3 times on vacation. It may be vacation, but apparently you still have to watch your kids.
We came back three days before Kindergarten started. I am not sure why, but I WAS A WRECK. not, I cried a little, or a lot. I mean a total wreck. I had serious stomach issues from Sunday until Thursday. I was not able to sleep more than three hours a night, and the sleep I did get, I dreamed about forgetting to pick a kid up from school or screwing up the carpool line. Luckily, through the help of a lot of friends and family, Sean and I were both able to go to everything important leading up to school starting. And Sean was able to walk Maura to school with me on her first day. She could not have been more excited. She literally was pulling us to the car. We dropped her off at the entrance and she walked right in, no turning back, until the nice lady at the door reminded her to wave goodbye to Mom and Dad. That was a mistake because I was already sobbing at that point. But I put on a smile and waved through the tears.
I then had to take Mags to her Life Stories at preschool... which is basically a meet the teacher. I am not exaggerating when I say, I sobbed to the teacher. So much so that I was not able to even apologize for sobbing. Luckily the teacher knows me. I then picked Maura up from school, ran home and dropped her off (my mom was still there from the morning) took B to her Life Stories (only a few tear ups this time). Came home, picked up Mags, took her to ballet. Came home, fed the girls a quick dinner and got Maura ready for soccer practice. So, after typing this, I am pretty sure the stomach un-easiness was not only about M's first day of kindergarten, but my anxiety about having to be in two places at once.
Pick up for Maura is at 11:40 and pickup for mags and B is at 11:45. And they are not less than 3 minutes apart. However, once again as a result of wonderful friends and the wonderful world of carpooling... it is all working out. I am sleeping again. And my stomach is back to normal.
All the girls are loving everything this year. B and Mags are taking ballet... absolutely adorable. Maura is tearing up the soccer field- 4 goals to date, and a game ball to boot. They love going to school every morning. As a matter of fact we are often too early for school because they are so excited to get out of the door. I am so happy for Mags, after a not great, (not bad, but not great) year last year, she really seems to be in her element this year.
Life is still crazy. They still whine and complain. They even fight and yell at each other (and me). But overall, everyone seems happy. I ran my half marathon to my shock, and now I am back to working out, so that even makes me happy. Sean is doing great. He is super busy at work. A good thing in this economy, and taking classes at Villanova on Monday nights. He really has stepped up his husband of the year game, and been very helpful and supportive lately. Not that he always wasn't, but the word VERY is stressed.
B and I are heading to Arkansas this weekend. I am really excited to see everyone out there. It is always so fun to get together with family. I can't wait.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Ugh, August already!?!?!
I can't believe that it is August. August 3rd to be exact. Where has my summer gone? It has been a hot one, not just a little hot, but HOT. Like 10 days in a row over 90 with 100% humidity and many of those days hitting 100! I am feeling guilty that we have not been outside enough, but it has been unbearable.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Two Wheeling
Maura is riding a two wheeler. On Sunday after dinner Sean and the girls disappeared while I chatted with Sue. Around 20 minutes later, they come on the deck and announce that we have a two wheeling kid in the house. Yay! I knew she would pick it up fast (once we showed her... lazy parents!). She was very proud. I especially loved when she was calling to Kerri to watch her!
Now today she had a friend over and went outside to jump on the bike. We had a complaint about the bike not working anymore... I guess we might need a little more practice.
Now today she had a friend over and went outside to jump on the bike. We had a complaint about the bike not working anymore... I guess we might need a little more practice.
B is turning 3
It happens every year, well really, four times a year. One of my babies gets a year older. Darn it! I can't stand it. As much as I want the "easier" times to come (like getting themselves dressed, taking a bath, no diapers, doing chores -could I be so lucky??), I don't want them to get to that next, not so easy stage. I love their little faces, and voices, and feet, and bums... boy do I love those bums! It just chokes me up even thinking about her turning three.
She, however, could not be more thrilled. She knows (for the first time) it is HER BIRTHDAY. She wants Dora there, a donut cake, and to get her ears pierced. She is getting a donut cake and her ears pierced, but no Dora... sorry. She asked to have her three best friends at her party... Jimmy, Daddy and Brady. Once again she will get two out of three... Daddy has to work.
She is really getting older and changing every day. Heck, she even went to, and stayed at, camp this week. Just two weeks ago she dropped out (although I may have dropped out of that last one too, sorry girls).
So here is a list of some of my favorite things about my TWO year old B:
She is cuddly, so cuddly and affectionate.
She loves her pacifier and gets so excited when she sees it, and so calm once it is in her mouth.
She plays, guess which hand, all the time.
She still wants to sit in the high chair at breakfast.
She loves chocolate milk.
She is spunky, really spunky.
She does not ever stop on the 1 or the 2 (when counting for discipline) you always need to be about to say 3 for her to stop.
She thinks she can swim; she can't; it is scary.
She picks out her own outfits.
She wears panties to bed already!
She loves her BFF's (Daddy, Jimmy, and Brady)
She loves to go anywhere, anytime.
Whenever a car pulls in the driveway she checks for a car seat... just in case they want to take her with them... because she probably would go.
She is great with Kerri when no one else is around.
She pinches Kerri when Kerri is not cooperating with her!
She does not like to sleep without Mags in the room.
She wants to be just like Maura.
She knows her ABCs and 123s.
When she gets mad she speaks very slowly and very loudly, and clenches her fists.
She is one of a kind.
She, however, could not be more thrilled. She knows (for the first time) it is HER BIRTHDAY. She wants Dora there, a donut cake, and to get her ears pierced. She is getting a donut cake and her ears pierced, but no Dora... sorry. She asked to have her three best friends at her party... Jimmy, Daddy and Brady. Once again she will get two out of three... Daddy has to work.
She is really getting older and changing every day. Heck, she even went to, and stayed at, camp this week. Just two weeks ago she dropped out (although I may have dropped out of that last one too, sorry girls).
So here is a list of some of my favorite things about my TWO year old B:
She is cuddly, so cuddly and affectionate.
She loves her pacifier and gets so excited when she sees it, and so calm once it is in her mouth.
She plays, guess which hand, all the time.
She still wants to sit in the high chair at breakfast.
She loves chocolate milk.
She is spunky, really spunky.
She does not ever stop on the 1 or the 2 (when counting for discipline) you always need to be about to say 3 for her to stop.
She thinks she can swim; she can't; it is scary.
She picks out her own outfits.
She wears panties to bed already!
She loves her BFF's (Daddy, Jimmy, and Brady)
She loves to go anywhere, anytime.
Whenever a car pulls in the driveway she checks for a car seat... just in case they want to take her with them... because she probably would go.
She is great with Kerri when no one else is around.
She pinches Kerri when Kerri is not cooperating with her!
She does not like to sleep without Mags in the room.
She wants to be just like Maura.
She knows her ABCs and 123s.
When she gets mad she speaks very slowly and very loudly, and clenches her fists.
She is one of a kind.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Meatballs
Mags is usually the one with all the cute sayings, but B has a couple too... mostly to do with "private" body parts, but cute none the less.
She calls nipples, meatballs. Today she said, Mommy, you have big meatballs. My meatballs are small. See?
She calls the Diving pool, the diamond pool... kind of reminds me of the black diamond ski slopes.
She calls a pen*s. Peanuts. As in Daddy has a peanuts; Jimmy has a peanuts; I want a peanuts.
She calls nipples, meatballs. Today she said, Mommy, you have big meatballs. My meatballs are small. See?
She calls the Diving pool, the diamond pool... kind of reminds me of the black diamond ski slopes.
She calls a pen*s. Peanuts. As in Daddy has a peanuts; Jimmy has a peanuts; I want a peanuts.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Swim team
Maura and Maggie have begun swimming for the Minis for Aronimink. I really wanted Maggie to do it, because she is a good swimmer ( for a four year old) and she is always just following in Maura's footsteps, I wanted her to do something for herself. But, of course, she said she would not do it unless Maura did it. I did not want to pressure them to do it, but I was really hoping they would. Maura eventually came around and decided to do it. I was really happy that mags would be doing it. When we got to tryouts, Maura jumped right in and was ready to go. mags started crying and almost didn't do it. I was kicking myself. the whole reason I wanted them to do it was for Mags and now Maura would be on the team and not Maggie! Darn! Well, Mags came around and swam her lap. She really is great. She can swim a whole lap freestyle with about a 2-3 second "freeze" in between four arm strokes. She can then turn around and come back and do it again. It is impressive. And she really like it. She just loves being in the water. Maura on the other hand, does not like getting her face wet (either do I so I know where she gets it). She is doing great at backstroke though!
The swim meets are more of a cocktail party than a swim meet, but I'll take it. The last one even had a DJ and dance floor (complete with lights) afterward! Fun! We were there until 10:00 when I had to drag the girls (and Sean) out kicking!
The swim meets are more of a cocktail party than a swim meet, but I'll take it. The last one even had a DJ and dance floor (complete with lights) afterward! Fun! We were there until 10:00 when I had to drag the girls (and Sean) out kicking!
An adventure, a hike and an experiment
Inspired by our cousin Chrissy, we are going to attempt to do one of each (hike, adventure and experiment) every week this summer. So far, so good. This week we went to the Willows and hiked through a stream, up a "mountain" (large hill) and around a pond. We were met by some geese and swans at the pond. The swans came chasing after us. Maura and Bridget were both pond side when the swans came charging after them. They both turned to run-right into a bench. Maura was quick enough to climb over the bench and run out of there. B, not so much. She was stuck, and screaming. I wanted to help, I really did, but I had K in my hands and, well, let's be honest, I was afraid!! I yelled for B to run, but she couldn't get around the bench. I finally ran up to her, she made her way around, I grabbed her arm and drug her away. By this time, Mags is screaming. It really was quite a sight. I can see the headlines... Young girl gets pecked to death by swan while mom stands by watching!! I think that counts as an adventure, but just to be sure, we set up the tent and camped out in the back yard that night. Maura decided she would rather sleep in her bed (smart girl) so B, mags and I slept out. I was impresses, especially with Mags. Around 11:00pm, I thought about carrying them up to their room and heading to mine, but I figured if they could do it, so could I. Oh, our "experiment: was seeing what floated and what sank. Silly banz sink!
They had so much fun, we went back yesterday with daddy, and today we bought nets to catch tadpoles next time we go. Now let's see if I can stick to it. NB: I am also in a 40 day no yelling bet with myself. I may be asking too much of myself, it is summer after all!
They had so much fun, we went back yesterday with daddy, and today we bought nets to catch tadpoles next time we go. Now let's see if I can stick to it. NB: I am also in a 40 day no yelling bet with myself. I may be asking too much of myself, it is summer after all!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Summer is in full swing
Well, here we are in the full swing of summer. How did that happen? Maura graduated from Pre-K (again), and B finished her first year of school. She is potty trained and ready for summer camps! We have started swim lessons (boot camp) at WCU. The girls are loving it. Mags really is a star! Maura was not loving putting her head in the water, but with some new goggles and a little more self assurred-ness she is ready to go. The girls have decided (as of today) to do swim team (that could change at any given moment!). We will see how that goes. Kerri is talking more and more. She really just makes me smile all-the-time. I can't take it. Even when she is bad, I think she is adorable. She just had her 18month check up. 25% for weight (really? she is a chunker) 50% for height and... wait for it... 90% for head. Too funny. She always has been a little top heavy... in the most adorable way, of course.
I am having a great summer so far. Gwen is "helping" out this summer a few hours two days a week. Amazing what a difference that makes. The girls have a few Bible camps planned ( I am too cheap to send them to real camp!). They are looking forward to it. The twins (Emily and Katie) are coming in two weeks... Maura is on cloud nine about that!!
So life is good. It is busy, and it is fantastic. I am looking forward to some fun summer memories!
I am having a great summer so far. Gwen is "helping" out this summer a few hours two days a week. Amazing what a difference that makes. The girls have a few Bible camps planned ( I am too cheap to send them to real camp!). They are looking forward to it. The twins (Emily and Katie) are coming in two weeks... Maura is on cloud nine about that!!
So life is good. It is busy, and it is fantastic. I am looking forward to some fun summer memories!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Mother's Day Shows and why I am so proud.
I had three mother's day teas today. One right after another, actually two overlapped a bit... ugh! Well I had three very different experiences, but all filled with pride. This is just another example of how different my girls are. It is crazy!
Mags was up first. I was nervous, very nervous. The holiday show did not go so well. If you consider "so well" not even going into the room! I wanted to make sure we were there early enough because when she is late to anything, forget about it. Well, she did great. She walked right up on stage, and, are you ready, sang! She even did all the hand motions! I could have fallen over. I taped every last minute of it. I loved every second. I wanted to run up and squeeze her and grab her and tell her how proud I was of her.... right at that very second. Now, she did not wave to me, or smile, or really even look at me, but hey, she was on stage. She was doing it. I just am so darn proud of her and the growth she has made this year. On a side note, she was star of the week this week, and her teacher said she did GREAT. She loved making her poster... she decorated both sides. I wrote detailed descriptions next to each picture because I assumed she would not talk about it, and her teachers would have to tell the class about it. Well, I was wrong, again. She talked, and talked loudly and clearly about every last picture and drawing on her poster. Her teacher's aide (who is amazing) said she was so surprised and so proud of her too. mags has grown so much this year, in so many ways. She doesn't even drink milk anymore really! I know I am rambling about Mags, but geez, I am happy for her.
Next came Maura's tea. Well, Maura is like her dad, in that things come easily to her. So I was not nervous for her. I was surprised though that she was quiet and not really as animated as she was during the many hours of rehearsal at home, or as compared to her classmates. She would smile at me and give me a look or two, but no waving. She is all business. I think she is worried she will get in trouble. She told me later they were not allowed to move except when they had to stomp their feet for one song. She really does everything right. She knows all the words, all the motions. She does great, just like she does everything!! After the show she gave me her jump on me and wrap her arms and legs around me and make me let go, aka weird, greeting. She then does her pointing and poking but no talking routine. Interesting. But she is proud of herself and of what she does in the classroom, but quiet. I hope life keeps being so easy for Maura. It sure would be nice. Maura came up with me to B's party.
B was waiting for me when I walked in. She, unlike her sisters, drops everything and yells Mommy! and runs over to me. She talks al ot and tells me everything that happened in the last hour. She now can enjoy her snack. She wants to hug me, hold me, pat my head, kiss me. She wants me to carry her down the steps. She is reluctant to get up on stage, but when she does, darn is she a cutie. She sings the words and does the motions, really it was just her and another girls doing anything. She gets so easily distracted. A little boy was kind of running around and crying, she was trying so hard to concentrate on the teacher, but it was SO hard for her. She kept getting distracted. She did all her songs great. She smiled and waved to her mommy, and as soon as it was over, she ran right to me and wanted to hug and cuddle. That is all right before she went running around the room and the halls like a mad woman, but boy was it great. I can't believe she is old enough to be performing on stage!!
What a wonderful morning to me a mommy!
Mags was up first. I was nervous, very nervous. The holiday show did not go so well. If you consider "so well" not even going into the room! I wanted to make sure we were there early enough because when she is late to anything, forget about it. Well, she did great. She walked right up on stage, and, are you ready, sang! She even did all the hand motions! I could have fallen over. I taped every last minute of it. I loved every second. I wanted to run up and squeeze her and grab her and tell her how proud I was of her.... right at that very second. Now, she did not wave to me, or smile, or really even look at me, but hey, she was on stage. She was doing it. I just am so darn proud of her and the growth she has made this year. On a side note, she was star of the week this week, and her teacher said she did GREAT. She loved making her poster... she decorated both sides. I wrote detailed descriptions next to each picture because I assumed she would not talk about it, and her teachers would have to tell the class about it. Well, I was wrong, again. She talked, and talked loudly and clearly about every last picture and drawing on her poster. Her teacher's aide (who is amazing) said she was so surprised and so proud of her too. mags has grown so much this year, in so many ways. She doesn't even drink milk anymore really! I know I am rambling about Mags, but geez, I am happy for her.
Next came Maura's tea. Well, Maura is like her dad, in that things come easily to her. So I was not nervous for her. I was surprised though that she was quiet and not really as animated as she was during the many hours of rehearsal at home, or as compared to her classmates. She would smile at me and give me a look or two, but no waving. She is all business. I think she is worried she will get in trouble. She told me later they were not allowed to move except when they had to stomp their feet for one song. She really does everything right. She knows all the words, all the motions. She does great, just like she does everything!! After the show she gave me her jump on me and wrap her arms and legs around me and make me let go, aka weird, greeting. She then does her pointing and poking but no talking routine. Interesting. But she is proud of herself and of what she does in the classroom, but quiet. I hope life keeps being so easy for Maura. It sure would be nice. Maura came up with me to B's party.
B was waiting for me when I walked in. She, unlike her sisters, drops everything and yells Mommy! and runs over to me. She talks al ot and tells me everything that happened in the last hour. She now can enjoy her snack. She wants to hug me, hold me, pat my head, kiss me. She wants me to carry her down the steps. She is reluctant to get up on stage, but when she does, darn is she a cutie. She sings the words and does the motions, really it was just her and another girls doing anything. She gets so easily distracted. A little boy was kind of running around and crying, she was trying so hard to concentrate on the teacher, but it was SO hard for her. She kept getting distracted. She did all her songs great. She smiled and waved to her mommy, and as soon as it was over, she ran right to me and wanted to hug and cuddle. That is all right before she went running around the room and the halls like a mad woman, but boy was it great. I can't believe she is old enough to be performing on stage!!
What a wonderful morning to me a mommy!
Yeah!!
B is potty trained. Dry for a week now. Last Thursday I just decided to take off the diapers, and I did. We went for two days with no panties, no diapers, and many times, no nothing... nude. Panties went back on Sunday (shameless brag: when she was picking me up from my 10 mile race!). She has been in panties since. She has gone to school twice, to the gym, to restaurants, well, everywhere. Yeah. I hate to say it was easy, but it was.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Wa wa
Kerri is starting to say some words. She likes to make noise... scream even, but not alot of words come out of her cute little mouth. Well her newest, and favorite, is Wawa. She wants water.. all the time. Preferably out of a glass or water bottle. It can be pretty messy, but I can't help but indulge. Gotta encourage the talking (and it sure is better than her calling everyone and everything mama!). (BTW, right now Bridget is licking water off the counter. Must be her favorite too.)
Thursday, April 15, 2010
The Quest for the Golden Egg.
Two years ago we went to the Homestead with our family and my parents. We loved it. We went again this year. We loved it again! When we went two years ago, Maura found the Golden Egg at the egg hunt at the Owners Club. She was determined to find it again this year. As we checked in, she told the receptionist, "I am going to get the golden egg." I was nervous. What if she did not find it? I tried to prepare her for it.. you know, all the eggs have treats in them... even if you don't get the golden egg, it can still be fun... there is a silver egg??
Well, no need to worry, she got it. And so did Mags and B. They were thrilled. They got the big Easter basket with toys, candy, books, water bottles... it was the basket of all baskets. While we were "searching" for eggs, standing among all these colored eggs, I said to Mags, why aren't you picking up any eggs? She replied that she was searching for the golden egg. No time to waste picking up all the other ones!! Ryan was not as lucky. His age group was very aggressive and was only able to get 2 eggs!! Wow. That is some competitive egg hunting!
But more importantly, we had a great weekend with family. It was relaxing and fun, exciting and old fashion fun. I loved it. It took a while for me to relax and realize we were on vacation, but once I did, it was great! The kids went swimming every day and loved it. I think that was Ryan's favorite part of the weekend. We played on the playground; we went to the movies, a magic show, church, afternoon tea. We hiked, we hid eggs, went to two hunts, got balloon animals, played hide and seek, "swam" in the hot tub. It was a great Easter weekend. I hope we get to do it again next year, even worth the 7 hour drive!
Well, no need to worry, she got it. And so did Mags and B. They were thrilled. They got the big Easter basket with toys, candy, books, water bottles... it was the basket of all baskets. While we were "searching" for eggs, standing among all these colored eggs, I said to Mags, why aren't you picking up any eggs? She replied that she was searching for the golden egg. No time to waste picking up all the other ones!! Ryan was not as lucky. His age group was very aggressive and was only able to get 2 eggs!! Wow. That is some competitive egg hunting!
But more importantly, we had a great weekend with family. It was relaxing and fun, exciting and old fashion fun. I loved it. It took a while for me to relax and realize we were on vacation, but once I did, it was great! The kids went swimming every day and loved it. I think that was Ryan's favorite part of the weekend. We played on the playground; we went to the movies, a magic show, church, afternoon tea. We hiked, we hid eggs, went to two hunts, got balloon animals, played hide and seek, "swam" in the hot tub. It was a great Easter weekend. I hope we get to do it again next year, even worth the 7 hour drive!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Things I want to remember.
About Maura...
She really is a smart five year old. She is proud of her new beginning skills in reading.
She always asks to "do math... and not easy ones." I ask her addition and subtraction and she does it in her head. (like 8+5 and 12-7)
She loves to help out with Kerri. She even gets her out of her car seat for me.
She could care less about what she wears. Dirty/clean, doesn't matter to her.
She loves to watch the Jetsons and play computer games.
She wants to be a teacher, a farmer, a paleontologist and a cheerleader when she grows up.
She is a daredevil on her bike.
About Maggie...
She starts most words with "be", like I be-member (remember) or be-sider (consider) this
She loves, loves, loves her momma.
She loves her blankie and really needs it to sleep.
She is a great dresser. She likes to change her clothes multiple times throughout the day.
She and B play very nicely together.
She is great at drawing flowers and her family.
She is a great swimmer. She literally floats and/or treads water for hours at a time.
She can write her name and is a great color-er.
About Bridget...
She loves her boyfriends Jimmy (jim jims) and Brady. (and Tory too)
When you ask her who is in her class, she says her two teachers and the two boys in her class.
She loves to watch Dora, and, for a two year old, is way too obsessed with tv.
She would get in the car with anyone... she is always ready to go somewhere.
When we pull into the neighborhood, she says, "No, I don't want to go home."
She loves to push her babies in her stroller, even to the YMCA.
She LOVES he pacifier (Shashi). ALOT
She loves to cuddle. If you are sitting with her, she will rub your arm (or face, or whatever she is near) gently.
She is a mostly a daredevil, but is the most cautious of all my girls.
Her teacher tells stories of her falling off the chairs, alot.
She eats chalk, playdoh, glue, etc.!
About Kerri Jean...
She is mostly happy and content.
when she wakes up in her crib, she just plays in her crib until you come get her.
At nap time she starts crying as you are walking up the steps to get to her room.
She is a great eater. She eats just about anything, but if she doesn't want it, she lets you know. She throws it... far.
She has a great belly laugh and a great belly. We call her Buddha Belly.
She loves swimming and taking a bath, until one of her sisters splashes her.
She thinks her dad is pretty fantastic.
She calls everything and everyone Mama.
She still loves her bottle.
She never took a pacifier.
She really is a smart five year old. She is proud of her new beginning skills in reading.
She always asks to "do math... and not easy ones." I ask her addition and subtraction and she does it in her head. (like 8+5 and 12-7)
She loves to help out with Kerri. She even gets her out of her car seat for me.
She could care less about what she wears. Dirty/clean, doesn't matter to her.
She loves to watch the Jetsons and play computer games.
She wants to be a teacher, a farmer, a paleontologist and a cheerleader when she grows up.
She is a daredevil on her bike.
About Maggie...
She starts most words with "be", like I be-member (remember) or be-sider (consider) this
She loves, loves, loves her momma.
She loves her blankie and really needs it to sleep.
She is a great dresser. She likes to change her clothes multiple times throughout the day.
She and B play very nicely together.
She is great at drawing flowers and her family.
She is a great swimmer. She literally floats and/or treads water for hours at a time.
She can write her name and is a great color-er.
About Bridget...
She loves her boyfriends Jimmy (jim jims) and Brady. (and Tory too)
When you ask her who is in her class, she says her two teachers and the two boys in her class.
She loves to watch Dora, and, for a two year old, is way too obsessed with tv.
She would get in the car with anyone... she is always ready to go somewhere.
When we pull into the neighborhood, she says, "No, I don't want to go home."
She loves to push her babies in her stroller, even to the YMCA.
She LOVES he pacifier (Shashi). ALOT
She loves to cuddle. If you are sitting with her, she will rub your arm (or face, or whatever she is near) gently.
She is a mostly a daredevil, but is the most cautious of all my girls.
Her teacher tells stories of her falling off the chairs, alot.
She eats chalk, playdoh, glue, etc.!
About Kerri Jean...
She is mostly happy and content.
when she wakes up in her crib, she just plays in her crib until you come get her.
At nap time she starts crying as you are walking up the steps to get to her room.
She is a great eater. She eats just about anything, but if she doesn't want it, she lets you know. She throws it... far.
She has a great belly laugh and a great belly. We call her Buddha Belly.
She loves swimming and taking a bath, until one of her sisters splashes her.
She thinks her dad is pretty fantastic.
She calls everything and everyone Mama.
She still loves her bottle.
She never took a pacifier.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Up and Running
Well, walking. Kerri Jean is officially walking. It takes a lot round these part to make it official, but I think after a week of 90% of her time spent on her tootsie toes, we will call her a walker. She is the most cautious walkers I have ever seen (at least in my family). I remember the first day Mags crawled was also the first day she stood, and the first day she climbed a step. Not KJ, she takes it slow and steady. Good for her. I always wanted a "chill" toddler. Haven't had one yet. Maybe it is her! I am so happy for her. She is so proud of herself and can get into so many new things she could not reach before! She can also wear cute dresses now! (I am not a fan of crawling babies in dresses... it just seems cruel!)
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
My Little Martha Stewart
People always comment on how much Mags looks like Sean. Many people, who do not know her well, also assume she is a tom boy. I guess because she looks like Sean. She is so far from a Tom boy.
She loves to clean, set the table, decorate and re-decorate rooms and put together great outfits. She is also really good at it. She has an "eye" for putting outfits together and for creating centerpieces on our dinner table (or the coffee table, or the floor, or her bed, you get the point.)
Well this she gets from her mom, not her dad. Her dad, I am sure, does not even know the color of our bedroom, let alone what pictures are on the wall. I also bet that Mags does.
Well yesterday I was in the shower. K was napping and M, M and B were in my bed watching TV. When I came out, Maggie had gotten a "treat" for all the girls. She had gone into the kitchen, got three cups and filled them with not just milk, chocolate milk! Then she got out two glass dishes and put a variety of choices of snacks on the plates. She had a few pretzels, some Hershey kisses, a handful of conversation hearts, and a few other choices (I would like to say some fruit or veggies, but not so sure). They were sectioned off neatly, and I think she may have even alternated dark and light colors, just like her mom would do. I was so proud I let them eat all that food right there in my bed!
Now Maura looks just like me, but she, like her father would have just brought a bag of chips up. Mags, looks like her dad, but she sure is like her mom in so many ways! I guess we will see what B and k bring!
She loves to clean, set the table, decorate and re-decorate rooms and put together great outfits. She is also really good at it. She has an "eye" for putting outfits together and for creating centerpieces on our dinner table (or the coffee table, or the floor, or her bed, you get the point.)
Well this she gets from her mom, not her dad. Her dad, I am sure, does not even know the color of our bedroom, let alone what pictures are on the wall. I also bet that Mags does.
Well yesterday I was in the shower. K was napping and M, M and B were in my bed watching TV. When I came out, Maggie had gotten a "treat" for all the girls. She had gone into the kitchen, got three cups and filled them with not just milk, chocolate milk! Then she got out two glass dishes and put a variety of choices of snacks on the plates. She had a few pretzels, some Hershey kisses, a handful of conversation hearts, and a few other choices (I would like to say some fruit or veggies, but not so sure). They were sectioned off neatly, and I think she may have even alternated dark and light colors, just like her mom would do. I was so proud I let them eat all that food right there in my bed!
Now Maura looks just like me, but she, like her father would have just brought a bag of chips up. Mags, looks like her dad, but she sure is like her mom in so many ways! I guess we will see what B and k bring!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Holiday recap....really short
We had a great holiday. It is overwhelming to recap it all, because so many things, wonderful things, happened.
We had great times with every member of our immediate families, brothers, sisters, cousins, grandparents. It was so nice to see everyone. We had a great brunch with Santa, a formal dinner out at Aronimink, mass at Saint Norberts (in the front row again), dinner at the Smiths (with a gift exchange thrown in). We woke up Christmas morning to discover that Santa had left tons of gifts under the tree. We tore through them and loved every one. Oba and Grandad, Ryan and Chris then joined us for brunch... and of course, more presents. Mimi, Papa, aunt Colleen, Uncle Dave, and the Arlington O'Reillys came by for an informal dinner. We saw the light show and rode the train. M, M and I went to see the newest Disney Princess movie, The Princess and the Frog. We went to lunch before... at a REAL restaurant, not a kids' restaurant.
We had a fun visit to the Shorts. I love getting together with them, not only because I like Adeline and Elizabeth's parents, but the girls LOVE each other. They don't see each other for months, but when they do they run into each other's arms, hug, and we really do not see them again for hours. That is not to say they aren't up to no good somewhere, but we just don't see them. The Unsers also joined us... so fun to see them after so long.
New years at Aronimink was eventful. B was missing for about 20 minutes. I was really in the panic mode by minute 12. We found her and Chloe up on the second floor in a bathroom up to no good! After that, all was good with face painting, photobooths, balloon making, dancing, eating, drinking (parents not the kids). And to top it off, a count down to 9:00pm, ending in fireworks! Of course I was asleep by 11:00, but woke up a few minutes before midnight and saw the official countdown. Back asleep by 12:01.
As I look back on last year, I feel truly blessed. I mean how lucky am I to have a healthy, relatively happy family. We are safe, well fed, loved, healthy. At night, when the girls are snuggled, and the lights are dimmer, and the fire is roaring, I honestly feel like the luckiest girl around. Thanks 2009. You were great!
We had great times with every member of our immediate families, brothers, sisters, cousins, grandparents. It was so nice to see everyone. We had a great brunch with Santa, a formal dinner out at Aronimink, mass at Saint Norberts (in the front row again), dinner at the Smiths (with a gift exchange thrown in). We woke up Christmas morning to discover that Santa had left tons of gifts under the tree. We tore through them and loved every one. Oba and Grandad, Ryan and Chris then joined us for brunch... and of course, more presents. Mimi, Papa, aunt Colleen, Uncle Dave, and the Arlington O'Reillys came by for an informal dinner. We saw the light show and rode the train. M, M and I went to see the newest Disney Princess movie, The Princess and the Frog. We went to lunch before... at a REAL restaurant, not a kids' restaurant.
We had a fun visit to the Shorts. I love getting together with them, not only because I like Adeline and Elizabeth's parents, but the girls LOVE each other. They don't see each other for months, but when they do they run into each other's arms, hug, and we really do not see them again for hours. That is not to say they aren't up to no good somewhere, but we just don't see them. The Unsers also joined us... so fun to see them after so long.
New years at Aronimink was eventful. B was missing for about 20 minutes. I was really in the panic mode by minute 12. We found her and Chloe up on the second floor in a bathroom up to no good! After that, all was good with face painting, photobooths, balloon making, dancing, eating, drinking (parents not the kids). And to top it off, a count down to 9:00pm, ending in fireworks! Of course I was asleep by 11:00, but woke up a few minutes before midnight and saw the official countdown. Back asleep by 12:01.
As I look back on last year, I feel truly blessed. I mean how lucky am I to have a healthy, relatively happy family. We are safe, well fed, loved, healthy. At night, when the girls are snuggled, and the lights are dimmer, and the fire is roaring, I honestly feel like the luckiest girl around. Thanks 2009. You were great!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
I should be flattered
My girls love me. They really, really do. I should be flattered. I should feel blessed, and don't get me wrong, I do, and I am. But really. You are sitting on my lap. You have your head buried into my chest. I am there. There is no need for you to scream at the top of your lungs "mommy". It would be physically impossible for you to get any closer to me. Unless, of course, you somehow climbed back into my uterus. And I know at least one girl who would willingly do that. Gross, I know.
I have threatened to change my name, but they're smart little buggers. They would figure out my new name and scream that.
Seriously, somethimes they are in the kitchen with Sean, and they come upstairs to the bathroom, while I am in the shower, to ask me to get them a drink. Really?
Maybe they don't love me as much as they use me.
I have threatened to change my name, but they're smart little buggers. They would figure out my new name and scream that.
Seriously, somethimes they are in the kitchen with Sean, and they come upstairs to the bathroom, while I am in the shower, to ask me to get them a drink. Really?
Maybe they don't love me as much as they use me.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)