My husband.....
Arghhh!
My husband, who was told NO MORE OUT OF TOWN TRIPS (which he doesn't go out of town often anymore) until after the baby comes, informed me this morning he has to go out of town either the 13th, 14th or 15th (he told them "if I was stable"). I would prefer him to go this week or next, but he has been teaching training and will continue next week.
The main thing is this. I have REALLY been stressing about going into labor the week before I am supposed to be induced (the week of the 12th). That is the week of the boys Spring Break. When I went into labor with Bryce (luckily I was at the hospital to be induced when I went into labor with him) it was 2 hours from first contraction to delivery. I can see me going into labor that week, Paul almost an hour away at work and the hospital an 30 minutes away from here (assuming there is no traffic). I will be delivering at home with four kids!
I told him I could tell him now, without a doubt, that I would not be "stable" that week...physically or psychologically!! Even if I was not having contractions the morning he goes out of town, that can change quickly.
So, my new prediction for when Mady will get here......I am keeping it the week I predicted, but I am going to say that since Paul is planning to be in Mississippi for the day on the 13th, she will come that day! I will keep my fingers crossed that I am wrong.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Waiting on the Hiccups
As I have said before, Mady has stayed in the same position for quite a while now. She has been head down on the left side and her feet up in my ribs on the right. She moves around, stretches, etc.
Last night, Mady decided she was finally uncomfortable (I guess). Paul talks about how it looks like an alien is trying to break out of my stomach when she moves around. Last night, I agreed! I was waiting on her to break through my stomach.
My concern was that with the amount of moving she was doing she was turning breech. I still have a couple of weeks for her to turn back, but I would prefer her to just stay head down!
I have been waiting on her to have the hiccups since last night. That is the easiest way to tell how she is positioned for me. She has usually has them daily, but I have not felt them yet. She is moving around and she is kicking the same places she was before last night, so I think she is fine. I would still like to feel the hiccups as reassurance!
Last night, Mady decided she was finally uncomfortable (I guess). Paul talks about how it looks like an alien is trying to break out of my stomach when she moves around. Last night, I agreed! I was waiting on her to break through my stomach.
My concern was that with the amount of moving she was doing she was turning breech. I still have a couple of weeks for her to turn back, but I would prefer her to just stay head down!
I have been waiting on her to have the hiccups since last night. That is the easiest way to tell how she is positioned for me. She has usually has them daily, but I have not felt them yet. She is moving around and she is kicking the same places she was before last night, so I think she is fine. I would still like to feel the hiccups as reassurance!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Silence
I am laying here on the couch, all the kids are sleeping, no tv....just silence.
Did you know that clocks make a tick tock sound?
Did you know that clocks make a tick tock sound?
Bryce's Field Trip
I asked Bryce when he got home if he had a letter about his field trip tomorrow. He said no, it was cancelled because it is supposed to rain all day. I paid $23 for this field trip and did not even get a note home to say it was cancelled, much less anything about us getting our money back.
He did say they may get to go to the zoo, but this field trip would not be rescheduled. The zoo does NOT cost $23!!
I feel bad because out of three field trips this year, this is his second to be cancelled and not rescheduled. So much for fun Kindergarten field trips!
He did say they may get to go to the zoo, but this field trip would not be rescheduled. The zoo does NOT cost $23!!
I feel bad because out of three field trips this year, this is his second to be cancelled and not rescheduled. So much for fun Kindergarten field trips!
No Physical Contact
I heard a story about a principal that has made a no physical contact rule at his school. A student was sent to the hospital after horseplaying with another student.
I can see the upside of this. No injuries, less spreading of germs, etc. But, let's be realistic. Kids will be kids. I don't think giving them detention or expelling them (which are the punishments if the kids are caught touching anyone else) is really going to do much to help. I think this is going to an outrageous extreme.
I can see the upside of this. No injuries, less spreading of germs, etc. But, let's be realistic. Kids will be kids. I don't think giving them detention or expelling them (which are the punishments if the kids are caught touching anyone else) is really going to do much to help. I think this is going to an outrageous extreme.
Easter Plans
Since we are planning a trip to the beach this summer, I decided instead of doing Easter baskets this year, we would do sand castle buckets. Today I went and got them each a bucket, some sand toys, bubbles, etc.
The buckets are much cheaper than the baskets and bigger than most of the baskets, and I love that they have a dual purpose! This will get them even more excited about the beach....oh wait, maybe I SHOULD NOT do this. They are already pretty excited.
I think we will just do what we normally do and let the boys dye eggs, and hide plastic and their decorated eggs in the yard and look for them. Mom doesn't have the energy to do much more than that, I am afraid! Mady will be here the following week. :)
The buckets are much cheaper than the baskets and bigger than most of the baskets, and I love that they have a dual purpose! This will get them even more excited about the beach....oh wait, maybe I SHOULD NOT do this. They are already pretty excited.
I think we will just do what we normally do and let the boys dye eggs, and hide plastic and their decorated eggs in the yard and look for them. Mom doesn't have the energy to do much more than that, I am afraid! Mady will be here the following week. :)
Big Family
I was just reading a friends blog and she had a post about something that Paul and I were talking about last night (and frequently). She has seven kids between her and her husband and was talking about the comments she receives when she goes out with them all.
We always get comments. I don't know if it is the four kids or the fact they are four boys, but we defienently get attention. Lately, the comments all end with "is this one at least going to be a girl." It does not matter where we are we always get that question several times.
Yesterday, we were at Home Depot. I was walking behind Paul and all the kids and Paul was pushing AJ in the buggy. The man could only see Paul and they older three and asked if we were having number four. I said no, there was one in the buggy and this was number 5. His response surprised me. He says "I am proud of y'all." Then he started telling me how many kids, grandkids and great-grandkids he has. He was very nice, but we get such a range of reactions from people. Friday night, we went to a Mexican restaraunt for dinner. Our kids are usually very well behaved when we eat out, and they were Friday. Before we even got to our table there was a couple and there ONE child sitting at a table. They were enjoying their margaritas. They could not even wait until we had walked past them to start making rude comments to each other like "Oh my gosh, look at how many kids they have....and they are having MORE," and staring at us. They got up and left before we even got settled in. I guess the mere size of the family scared them off.
We always get comments. I don't know if it is the four kids or the fact they are four boys, but we defienently get attention. Lately, the comments all end with "is this one at least going to be a girl." It does not matter where we are we always get that question several times.
Yesterday, we were at Home Depot. I was walking behind Paul and all the kids and Paul was pushing AJ in the buggy. The man could only see Paul and they older three and asked if we were having number four. I said no, there was one in the buggy and this was number 5. His response surprised me. He says "I am proud of y'all." Then he started telling me how many kids, grandkids and great-grandkids he has. He was very nice, but we get such a range of reactions from people. Friday night, we went to a Mexican restaraunt for dinner. Our kids are usually very well behaved when we eat out, and they were Friday. Before we even got to our table there was a couple and there ONE child sitting at a table. They were enjoying their margaritas. They could not even wait until we had walked past them to start making rude comments to each other like "Oh my gosh, look at how many kids they have....and they are having MORE," and staring at us. They got up and left before we even got settled in. I guess the mere size of the family scared them off.
The New Bryce
Bryce has turned into another child this past week or so. I am getting letters home from his teacher saying how much she loves him. He is being VERY affectionate at home, continuously telling me he loves me and making me cards and asking about Mady. He is also constantly asking if he is being good. AND HE HAS BEEN VERY GOOD!! No temper tantrums ALL weekend. No time outs. No spankings.
I LIKE IT!!!
I LIKE IT!!!
This is what I walked in on this morning. So sweet and cute!! Bryce has gotten so good at reading and sounding words out. This book he is reading is called Roadwork. We got it from the library along with like 15 other books. This is the only one he wants to hear and wants to hear it over and over! I think we might have to find it and buy it!
It is the little moments like this that make me know I can handle life with four boys! Sometimes I just wish these type of moments occured more frequently!
OCD?
Andrew was taking one bite out of piece of his food and then lining them up, chicken together and apples together.
He ate SIX nuggets and ALL his apples. Very unusual! BUT, that might explain those chunky cheeks in the picture!
He ate SIX nuggets and ALL his apples. Very unusual! BUT, that might explain those chunky cheeks in the picture!
Isaac's Honor Roll Program
Isaac's school had their Honor Roll program Friday. He got certificates for A/B honor roll and A conduct. I am very proud of how hard he has worked this year and how much he has learned.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Coming Soon to Your Neighborhood...
I have never been a big fan of Obama or his standings. I have questioned many of the things he has considered "most important" like the closing of Guantanamo Bay. With all of our economic issues here at home, I don't know why we need to release terrorist. I could have believed it was the fact that we are spending money on the prison, until yesterday.
Yesterday I saw on the news where they are talking about releasing these terrorist into the US. They went on to say that they could not just release these prisoners with no way to start a new life. SO, not only are they going to release TRAINED TERRORIST into the US, WE (the people of the US) get to PAY for the terrorist.
Why, you might ask, would they release known terrorist into the US. Well no other country will take them. The group of trained Chinese terrorist can't go back to China for fear that they will be killed. Instead, let's release these trained terrorist to our neighborhoods. Then WE can live in fear.
But, hey, if the government is going to steal our time and money, why not steal our freedom of feeling somewhat safe in our own backyard.
There is much debate about Rush Limbaugh saying that he wanted the president to fail. I have to agree with the speech our governor gave. It is not a matter of if we want the president to fail, but if we want his decisions and actions to fail and America to succeed. I am growing more concerned by the day of the life's my children will lead. Should I push them to go to college and make a good life for themselves, knowing that the government will take everything from them (that is, of course, assuming that the terrorist that we BRING into our country don't wipe us all out first)?
Yesterday I saw on the news where they are talking about releasing these terrorist into the US. They went on to say that they could not just release these prisoners with no way to start a new life. SO, not only are they going to release TRAINED TERRORIST into the US, WE (the people of the US) get to PAY for the terrorist.
Why, you might ask, would they release known terrorist into the US. Well no other country will take them. The group of trained Chinese terrorist can't go back to China for fear that they will be killed. Instead, let's release these trained terrorist to our neighborhoods. Then WE can live in fear.
But, hey, if the government is going to steal our time and money, why not steal our freedom of feeling somewhat safe in our own backyard.
There is much debate about Rush Limbaugh saying that he wanted the president to fail. I have to agree with the speech our governor gave. It is not a matter of if we want the president to fail, but if we want his decisions and actions to fail and America to succeed. I am growing more concerned by the day of the life's my children will lead. Should I push them to go to college and make a good life for themselves, knowing that the government will take everything from them (that is, of course, assuming that the terrorist that we BRING into our country don't wipe us all out first)?
Friday, March 27, 2009
Pregnancy Test or Toothbrush
There was a commercial that came on for the pregnancy test that spells out yes or no. Bryce was watching it. He would like to know why the toothbrushes say yes and no on them.
I started to tell him it tells you if you brushed enough, but then he would want it.
I just laughed.
I started to tell him it tells you if you brushed enough, but then he would want it.
I just laughed.
Bigger by the Day
I put on a shirt this morning that I wore less than a week ago. It fit me fine then. It will not stay over my belly now. I have grown that much in less than a week.
Two nights ago we saw the Taco Bell commercial with the guy dressed up as a pregnant woman, but his belly is a globe with nachos in it. Paul commented that he was bigger than me. Last night, my sister called and said she had just seen the side shot. She wanted to know if I was really pregnant or if I just had a nacho belly.
The nacho belly would be much more comfortable at this point. Nothing to poke and prod at me!!
Three weeks and two days!! But, who's counting?
Two nights ago we saw the Taco Bell commercial with the guy dressed up as a pregnant woman, but his belly is a globe with nachos in it. Paul commented that he was bigger than me. Last night, my sister called and said she had just seen the side shot. She wanted to know if I was really pregnant or if I just had a nacho belly.
The nacho belly would be much more comfortable at this point. Nothing to poke and prod at me!!
Three weeks and two days!! But, who's counting?
No Sleep
Bryce has gotten up every morning the last few mornings and said he got no sleep. I don't remember his excuse Wednesday morning, but Thursday morning he said his fan was making too much noise (it is making a clanking sound for some reason). Yet he was surprised by the rain and we had a HORRIBLE storm that lasted most of the night. If he had been awake at all between 11 and 4 he would have known there was a storm.
This morning, he got up and said he got no sleep because the thunder was "too much" and he turned on his fan and it was making noise. He also said that Andrew was up playing with toys ALL night. I know this isn't true because I would have heard him over the monitor. We also had horrible storms again from about 7:30 to about 3 or 4. If they had been awake, we would have known!
I guess I will tell him he is going to have to start taking naps again since he isn't sleeping at night. That will probably end it!
This morning, he got up and said he got no sleep because the thunder was "too much" and he turned on his fan and it was making noise. He also said that Andrew was up playing with toys ALL night. I know this isn't true because I would have heard him over the monitor. We also had horrible storms again from about 7:30 to about 3 or 4. If they had been awake, we would have known!
I guess I will tell him he is going to have to start taking naps again since he isn't sleeping at night. That will probably end it!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The Coat Drama Continues
If you recall, I spent the entire winter argueing with Caleb EVERY cold morning about his coat. He would want to wear just a sweatshirt when it was in the 20's and 30's in the mornings because his heavier coat "didn't fit" (it did and still does).
Now, it is in the 60's and 70's in the morning and the child WANTS to take his coat because his classroom is cold. They are not supposed to wear coats, other than navy blue (they wear uniforms) inside the school. Caleb says the teachers have too many other things to worry about than what coats the kids are wearing.
I can guarantee you his classroom is not in the 20's or 30's, which he always said was "comfortable" when he did not want to wear the jacket.
He must be a preteen that has to have something to argue about.
Now, it is in the 60's and 70's in the morning and the child WANTS to take his coat because his classroom is cold. They are not supposed to wear coats, other than navy blue (they wear uniforms) inside the school. Caleb says the teachers have too many other things to worry about than what coats the kids are wearing.
I can guarantee you his classroom is not in the 20's or 30's, which he always said was "comfortable" when he did not want to wear the jacket.
He must be a preteen that has to have something to argue about.
Bad Spring Storm
We had our first big Spring storm last night. I woke up about 11:30 and saw lots of lightening, but it didn't really get bad until closer to 1.
I kept expecting Bryce and Andrew to come in our room, but they never did. The rain and (sounded like some small) hail were pounding straight on their window. They slept through it all, amazingly. Bryce got up this morning and said he got no sleep last night because of his ceiling fan (I guess it is making a noise). Yet, he was shocked when he saw it rained. Guess he got some sleep, because it stormed most of the night!
Everything around us seems fine. There was some damage in Baton Rouge where roofs were blown off buildings, no electricity, etc. Our electricity did not as much as flicker throughout the entire storm. If you know how often we DON'T have electricity, you would understand how amazing that is. It seems like if the wind blows hard we loose electricity here!
I guess Bryce has grown out of the scared of storms stage and if we are lucky Andrew won't grow into it! We are supposed to have more severe storms this afternoon, tonight and tomorrow. They are saying the ones coming will likely be stronger than what we saw last night.
I kept expecting Bryce and Andrew to come in our room, but they never did. The rain and (sounded like some small) hail were pounding straight on their window. They slept through it all, amazingly. Bryce got up this morning and said he got no sleep last night because of his ceiling fan (I guess it is making a noise). Yet, he was shocked when he saw it rained. Guess he got some sleep, because it stormed most of the night!
Everything around us seems fine. There was some damage in Baton Rouge where roofs were blown off buildings, no electricity, etc. Our electricity did not as much as flicker throughout the entire storm. If you know how often we DON'T have electricity, you would understand how amazing that is. It seems like if the wind blows hard we loose electricity here!
I guess Bryce has grown out of the scared of storms stage and if we are lucky Andrew won't grow into it! We are supposed to have more severe storms this afternoon, tonight and tomorrow. They are saying the ones coming will likely be stronger than what we saw last night.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
The Decline of our Dog
We have come to the conclusion that our 14-15 year old lab has Alzeimer's. It is so sad to watch him and I really don't think he has much longer with us. We have a section of the backyard fenced off for him and our Australian Shepard.
When we are out we let them out with us. Jake (the lab) always comes out, but ends up pacing their fence or sitting at the gate like he is confused.
He paces ALL the time. He will no longer just sit down or lay down with us.
He cannot stand on concrete and trys not to walk on it much.
If he stands still his legs start shaking. It appears as though it is getting difficult for him to support his own weight.
All of this on top of the fact that he can barely see or hear. It will be a sad day when we have to make the horrible decision (which I fear is coming very soon) to put him down for his own sake.
Paul got Jake shortly after we started dating. There was a guy that delivered hay to his Dad and had Jake with him. They were talking about Jake and the guy said he was trained for hunting ducks, but he kept killing all of this guys chickens, so he was going to shoot him. Nice, you train a dog to kill birds and then you kill the dog for doing what you trained it to do. Paul took the dog instead. He has been, by far, the best dog we have ever had. Very friendly, GREAT with the kids, happy wherever we are at.
When we are out we let them out with us. Jake (the lab) always comes out, but ends up pacing their fence or sitting at the gate like he is confused.
He paces ALL the time. He will no longer just sit down or lay down with us.
He cannot stand on concrete and trys not to walk on it much.
If he stands still his legs start shaking. It appears as though it is getting difficult for him to support his own weight.
All of this on top of the fact that he can barely see or hear. It will be a sad day when we have to make the horrible decision (which I fear is coming very soon) to put him down for his own sake.
Paul got Jake shortly after we started dating. There was a guy that delivered hay to his Dad and had Jake with him. They were talking about Jake and the guy said he was trained for hunting ducks, but he kept killing all of this guys chickens, so he was going to shoot him. Nice, you train a dog to kill birds and then you kill the dog for doing what you trained it to do. Paul took the dog instead. He has been, by far, the best dog we have ever had. Very friendly, GREAT with the kids, happy wherever we are at.
THe Dreaded Side-Shot
As much as I do NOT want to post this, I regret not having prego pics of the older three boys. I have also had request for this picture. This will probably be the ONLY picture of my with this pregnancy that I will post. For one, if I get any bigger than this - I don't think I want proof of it. Also, it took me 35 weeks to get this one, so don't expect me to get another in a matter of a couple of weeks. :)
The second picture is a side shot of me at 37 weeks (2 weeks further along) with Andrew. I don't think the pictures give the difference justice, but believe me - I am definently bigger with this little girl (not to mention there is a two week difference in how far along I am).
Yesterday, I was standing on the back patio with Paul. He said he was not convinced I was only having one baby (by my size) and if I WAS only having one he was nervous about how big she was going to be. What a great thing to tell your wife!
The second picture is a side shot of me at 37 weeks (2 weeks further along) with Andrew. I don't think the pictures give the difference justice, but believe me - I am definently bigger with this little girl (not to mention there is a two week difference in how far along I am).
Yesterday, I was standing on the back patio with Paul. He said he was not convinced I was only having one baby (by my size) and if I WAS only having one he was nervous about how big she was going to be. What a great thing to tell your wife!
Hard Word
One of Isaac's words this week is "typical". He KNOWS the word, but cannot get it to come out of his mouth correctly. It does not matter how slowly he says it or how much he takes his time and sounds it out, it ALWAYS comes out tycipal.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
EXPENSIVE Field Trips
I have $52 in field trip money between the three boys due in the next week.
FIFTY TWO DOLLARS (and Caleb only needs $4 of it).
FIFTY TWO DOLLARS (and Caleb only needs $4 of it).
Setting Her Free
Since we had the workbench outside this weekend for Andrew to help Daddy, it has not made it back to Andrew's room. It has been sitting by the back door and he has been playing with it constantly.
The last two days he has been carrying around tools everywhere. His favorite tool is the saw. His favorite thing to do with the saw...use it on my stomach. It seems as though he is trying to cut his sister out of my stomach so he can meet her.
Amazingly, she has not seemed to mind the noise or the movement on her. Mom, on the other hand, finds it a bit annoying.
He also loves her PINK blanket. It is the only thing he will throw his blanket down for. After he got up from his nap he went and got her blanket and brought it to me. What is funny though, he always says "Mady" as he covers my belly...only my belly (he is very precise about it). Then he lays his head on the blanket and plays with the corner like he does his blanket.
The last two days he has been carrying around tools everywhere. His favorite tool is the saw. His favorite thing to do with the saw...use it on my stomach. It seems as though he is trying to cut his sister out of my stomach so he can meet her.
Amazingly, she has not seemed to mind the noise or the movement on her. Mom, on the other hand, finds it a bit annoying.
He also loves her PINK blanket. It is the only thing he will throw his blanket down for. After he got up from his nap he went and got her blanket and brought it to me. What is funny though, he always says "Mady" as he covers my belly...only my belly (he is very precise about it). Then he lays his head on the blanket and plays with the corner like he does his blanket.
Cleaning
We are making the boys take a much more active part in housework. They have always had things they have had to do when things get crazy, but we have never enforced it daily or weekly. Things are changing.
One thing they all have to do is clean off their dishes and put them in the dishwasher. Bryce needs a little help - he can't reach the faucet. Other than that they are on their own with it.
This morning, Caleb left his plate and cup in the sink. I told him he needed to take care of it. He tried to tell me he just didn't have time to clean the dishes (like I asked him to do everyones dinner dishes or something).
I just smiled at him and told him my mornings just got crazy busy and I didn't think I had time to fix him breakfast anymore.
He did not say a word. He went to the kitchen and put the ONE plate and ONE cup in the dishwasher. He STILL had time to stand and wait on his bus to get here.
One thing they all have to do is clean off their dishes and put them in the dishwasher. Bryce needs a little help - he can't reach the faucet. Other than that they are on their own with it.
This morning, Caleb left his plate and cup in the sink. I told him he needed to take care of it. He tried to tell me he just didn't have time to clean the dishes (like I asked him to do everyones dinner dishes or something).
I just smiled at him and told him my mornings just got crazy busy and I didn't think I had time to fix him breakfast anymore.
He did not say a word. He went to the kitchen and put the ONE plate and ONE cup in the dishwasher. He STILL had time to stand and wait on his bus to get here.
Sight Words
These have been Isaac's sight words for the past three weeks (remember he is in FIRST GRADE):
Week 1:
asserted
offended
retorted
congenial
congregate
cheerful
Week 2:
pleased
joy
stammered
puzzling
probing
unrelenting
Week 3:
deserve
usually
peaceful
variety
incredible
typical
I don't know what they think these first graders are reading, but I can guarantee you not many of these words have been any books that Isaac has read.
What really gets me....they are not teaching the definitions of these words. They just want the kids to be able to see these words and no how to say them. In my opinion there are many OTHER words that are more on their level, that DO show up in the stories they read.
We spend the first evening looking up words and getting definitions. Even if they are words I use often, I have to look them up to get them on a first grade definition level for him.
Just seems crazy to me that this is what they are teaching them.
Week 1:
asserted
offended
retorted
congenial
congregate
cheerful
Week 2:
pleased
joy
stammered
puzzling
probing
unrelenting
Week 3:
deserve
usually
peaceful
variety
incredible
typical
I don't know what they think these first graders are reading, but I can guarantee you not many of these words have been any books that Isaac has read.
What really gets me....they are not teaching the definitions of these words. They just want the kids to be able to see these words and no how to say them. In my opinion there are many OTHER words that are more on their level, that DO show up in the stories they read.
We spend the first evening looking up words and getting definitions. Even if they are words I use often, I have to look them up to get them on a first grade definition level for him.
Just seems crazy to me that this is what they are teaching them.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Report Cards
The boys brought home report cards Friday. I am so proud of all three of them!
Caleb got straight A's, ranging from 94 to 101. He also got an A on conduct and all of his teachers said he was an excellant student.
Isaac got all A's and B's, ranging from 88 to 100. He also got an A on conduct.
The grade scale here is weird. Instead of a 10 point scale most schools use (90-100 is an A, 80-89 is a B, etc) they are on a different scale (94-100 is an A, 88-93.999 is a B, 78-87.999 is a C, etc). Luckily, they just voted to change to the 10 point scale next year because too many kids were not qualifying for scholarships because their GPAs were not high enough. I am SO glad they figured this out before my kids got to high school!
Bryce does not get a numeral grade yet. He gets NI (needs improvement), S (Satisfactory Performance) and M (meets standard). Up until this point on his report cards he has gotten lots of S's and NI's. This quarter he got M's across the board!! He also got no X's (which is what he gets on conduct in places he needs improvements (social/personal development.....pays attention, follows directions, etc). I am so proud of the progress he has made this year. I have had some concerns throughout the year! He has also REALLY picked up reading this quarter. Even his teacher has commented on his progress there.
We are very lucky to have four boys that LOVE to read. The older three no longer want to be read too (Caleb hasn't wanted to in a while), they want to read to us. I hope they carry their love of reading (and learning) throughout life (and I hope the other two adopt the love). I do all I can to encourage it by reading to them early on, but that is not a guarantee that they will enjoy it when they get older.
I need some feedback.....
Caleb wants to read Oliver Twist. It is in the young adult section at the library (he can't check it out on his card). IF I have read it, I don't remember it and Daddy doesn't remember it either. Is it appropriate for a ten year old? This is an issue we seem to run into with him and unfortunately, if the book has more than 20 pages and isn't written in big print, I don't typically have time to read it (honestly, it isn't that I don't have time...it is that if I sit down or lay down to read it at night when the kids go to bed - I FALL ASLEEP!).
Caleb got straight A's, ranging from 94 to 101. He also got an A on conduct and all of his teachers said he was an excellant student.
Isaac got all A's and B's, ranging from 88 to 100. He also got an A on conduct.
The grade scale here is weird. Instead of a 10 point scale most schools use (90-100 is an A, 80-89 is a B, etc) they are on a different scale (94-100 is an A, 88-93.999 is a B, 78-87.999 is a C, etc). Luckily, they just voted to change to the 10 point scale next year because too many kids were not qualifying for scholarships because their GPAs were not high enough. I am SO glad they figured this out before my kids got to high school!
Bryce does not get a numeral grade yet. He gets NI (needs improvement), S (Satisfactory Performance) and M (meets standard). Up until this point on his report cards he has gotten lots of S's and NI's. This quarter he got M's across the board!! He also got no X's (which is what he gets on conduct in places he needs improvements (social/personal development.....pays attention, follows directions, etc). I am so proud of the progress he has made this year. I have had some concerns throughout the year! He has also REALLY picked up reading this quarter. Even his teacher has commented on his progress there.
We are very lucky to have four boys that LOVE to read. The older three no longer want to be read too (Caleb hasn't wanted to in a while), they want to read to us. I hope they carry their love of reading (and learning) throughout life (and I hope the other two adopt the love). I do all I can to encourage it by reading to them early on, but that is not a guarantee that they will enjoy it when they get older.
I need some feedback.....
Caleb wants to read Oliver Twist. It is in the young adult section at the library (he can't check it out on his card). IF I have read it, I don't remember it and Daddy doesn't remember it either. Is it appropriate for a ten year old? This is an issue we seem to run into with him and unfortunately, if the book has more than 20 pages and isn't written in big print, I don't typically have time to read it (honestly, it isn't that I don't have time...it is that if I sit down or lay down to read it at night when the kids go to bed - I FALL ASLEEP!).
"Classic"
Paul was listening to a classic rock station the other day and a Guns and Roses song came on. He said he felt old.
THIRTY, Sweetie....THIRTY!
If the music we listened to growing up is "classic" does that mean we are?
THIRTY, Sweetie....THIRTY!
If the music we listened to growing up is "classic" does that mean we are?
Andrew's Tractor
Here are some pictures from Friday when Andrew got his tractor. 
Saturday he used his tractor to help Mom pull weeds and move them to the compost bin.
Small World
Sunday afternoon, as we were going for our Jeep ride (with no top) we noticed a car that looked like the one we recently traded in at a house at the entrance. As we drove by it I looked at it and it was MY car!
What a small world. We traded the car in at a dealership in Baton Rouge and not only did someone in our city buy it, but someone in our neighborhood!
I don't miss it though. I like my big bus, with our family size.
What a small world. We traded the car in at a dealership in Baton Rouge and not only did someone in our city buy it, but someone in our neighborhood!
I don't miss it though. I like my big bus, with our family size.
Andrew's Sunburn
The first thing we are doing when the boys get on their bus today is going to get sunscreen.
Andrew got up and OH MY GOODNESS! He is so much worse than he looked last night. We thought his ears were really bad last night. This morning his face and arms look like his ears looked last night and his ears look even worse.
I know I am not the only mother to let her child get sunburned, but I still feel bad.
Andrew got up and OH MY GOODNESS! He is so much worse than he looked last night. We thought his ears were really bad last night. This morning his face and arms look like his ears looked last night and his ears look even worse.
I know I am not the only mother to let her child get sunburned, but I still feel bad.
Busy Weekend
We had a very busy weekend and the boys enjoyed it all outside. Daddy had Friday off, so after the drs appt and getting AJ's present, he came home and did the yard work. The boys got off school early (parent teacher conferences - which we did not have to attend for any of the boys) and immediately went outside to play.
Friday evening we set up the tent and Caleb slept outside (we had three out there to start with, but no sleeping...or quiet...was happening).
Saturday morning we got up and ran some errands - going grocery shopping, Home Depot (Daddy had a project going on this weekend), the library, etc.
We got home and Daddy started on his project. We have only taken the top off the Jeep once in the year we have had it because it is SO heavy and a pain. He made a "table" that he could use to pull the top off by himself and store it. He worked on this most of Saturday and finished it up Sunday. The table worked great, but it still took two of us. He was thinking he could raise the top enough under the rack for it to slide off easily, but that did not work quite as we planned. We got it off, hopefully we can get it back on (supposed to rain all week after today). It was easier than without the table, though.
Saturday evening, we planted half the flowers we bought a month ago to put under our front trees.
The boys enjoyed playing outside all weekend. It was beautiful. Saturday, Andrew spent most of the day on his tractor (video and pictures will come later this morning). He really figured out how to steer and drive it on his own. His only problem is when it goes in the grass the wheels can't get traction. So he would put it in the grass, jump off and start screaming at someone to help. His older brothers would come running! We also took his workbench outside and he "helped" Daddy build his table.
The older boys would play on their bikes, scooters, dodge ball, hide and seek, then they would go lay in the tent and read their new books. They did this all weekend.
Saturday I was really strict with Andrew about wearing a Daddy's floppy hat to keep the sun off of him. Sunday, I did not do as good a job :( He got a little sunburned on his arms, ears, face and neck. Then we went in the Jeep (without the top) and his legs got a little burned. After his bath last night, we put some aloe on him. He had some major goose bumps after that!!
I am glad the boys had so much fun this weekend. We are trying to let them do stuff they enjoy leading up to Mady's arrival.
I think I will have a lazy day today (other than chasing the toddler, laundry and light housework).
Friday evening we set up the tent and Caleb slept outside (we had three out there to start with, but no sleeping...or quiet...was happening).
Saturday morning we got up and ran some errands - going grocery shopping, Home Depot (Daddy had a project going on this weekend), the library, etc.
We got home and Daddy started on his project. We have only taken the top off the Jeep once in the year we have had it because it is SO heavy and a pain. He made a "table" that he could use to pull the top off by himself and store it. He worked on this most of Saturday and finished it up Sunday. The table worked great, but it still took two of us. He was thinking he could raise the top enough under the rack for it to slide off easily, but that did not work quite as we planned. We got it off, hopefully we can get it back on (supposed to rain all week after today). It was easier than without the table, though.
Saturday evening, we planted half the flowers we bought a month ago to put under our front trees.
The boys enjoyed playing outside all weekend. It was beautiful. Saturday, Andrew spent most of the day on his tractor (video and pictures will come later this morning). He really figured out how to steer and drive it on his own. His only problem is when it goes in the grass the wheels can't get traction. So he would put it in the grass, jump off and start screaming at someone to help. His older brothers would come running! We also took his workbench outside and he "helped" Daddy build his table.
The older boys would play on their bikes, scooters, dodge ball, hide and seek, then they would go lay in the tent and read their new books. They did this all weekend.
Saturday I was really strict with Andrew about wearing a Daddy's floppy hat to keep the sun off of him. Sunday, I did not do as good a job :( He got a little sunburned on his arms, ears, face and neck. Then we went in the Jeep (without the top) and his legs got a little burned. After his bath last night, we put some aloe on him. He had some major goose bumps after that!!
I am glad the boys had so much fun this weekend. We are trying to let them do stuff they enjoy leading up to Mady's arrival.
I think I will have a lazy day today (other than chasing the toddler, laundry and light housework).
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Special Breakfast
Caleb came in to our room this morning asking if he could make breakfast for us. He checked out a Kids Betty Crocker cookbook from the library and has been wanting to make something from it.
Daddy got up and the two of the made pancakes with fresh strawberries and bananas for breakfast. They made the fruit INSIDE the pancake instead of on top, like I did on Valentine's Day.
The pancakes were a big hit. Andrew normally eats a little bit of pancake, but not much. He ate two large pancakes and one small one.
Thank you Caleb and Daddy for the delicious breakfast!
Daddy got up and the two of the made pancakes with fresh strawberries and bananas for breakfast. They made the fruit INSIDE the pancake instead of on top, like I did on Valentine's Day.
The pancakes were a big hit. Andrew normally eats a little bit of pancake, but not much. He ate two large pancakes and one small one.
Thank you Caleb and Daddy for the delicious breakfast!
Taking It Easy
I did some light yard work yesterday in our beautiful weather. I pulled some weeds, repotted some plants on the patio and helped Paul plant some flowers under one of our trees. I was sitting for most of the work.
I have been up for the last hour paying for it. I started having contractions not too long into the work and I am still having them. Most of the time, if I can get to sleep I can sleep through the contractions, but I woke up an hour ago and can't get comfortable enough to go back to sleep.
Paul got on to me several times yesterday while I was out working. When I was pulling weeds he asked if that was considered taking it easy. I said yes, I could be doing something much worse. He has informed me that today I will be taking it easy by HIS standards, not mine.
I have been up for the last hour paying for it. I started having contractions not too long into the work and I am still having them. Most of the time, if I can get to sleep I can sleep through the contractions, but I woke up an hour ago and can't get comfortable enough to go back to sleep.
Paul got on to me several times yesterday while I was out working. When I was pulling weeds he asked if that was considered taking it easy. I said yes, I could be doing something much worse. He has informed me that today I will be taking it easy by HIS standards, not mine.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Andrew's 2nd Birthday Present
We went today and got Andrew his birthday present, since we didn't want to chance being in the hospital and not having anything for his birthday. We got him a John Deere Tractor power wheels. It is small (for ages 2-4) and he is able to reach the pedal and steer this one, unlike the big Jeep they have.
I took some video of him on it when Daddy first put it together, but we could not let him ride for long because we did not want to ruin the battery. Tomorrow morning I will get some more video and some pictures and post of him on it. He loves it and was quite upset about not getting to play with it!
I took some video of him on it when Daddy first put it together, but we could not let him ride for long because we did not want to ruin the battery. Tomorrow morning I will get some more video and some pictures and post of him on it. He loves it and was quite upset about not getting to play with it!
35 Week Check-up
We went this morning for my 35 week check-up. We are ALMOST THERE!!! One month to go.
She is still measuring great (although she feel super gigormous to me) and her heartbeat was 145 bpm.
She moves all the time, but she stays in the same place. I guess she is just a squirmy little girl that likes to stretch out. Her head is low on the left and her feet are in my ribs on the right. She stays that way all the time. So, she gets my bladder and lungs at the same time...FUN FUN!
The boys are all very excited about her arrival. I get asked at least once a day by one of them when she will be here. Andrew is becoming increasingly more obsessed with my belly (and my belly button) and still likes to tell Mady how much he loves her and give her hugs and kisses frequently. I have to watch him when we are out because he likes to try to pull up my shirt to love on her.
I am to the point where I am ready to be done being pregnant. I am tired of my ever-shrinking wardrobe, feeling blah and tired all the time and just the general uncomfortableness of being nine months pregnant! I think everyday I try and get dressed there are more clothes that DON'T fit me, that did last time I wore them.
I was told by my drs nurse that after today I would start going weekly, but the dr said today I could come back in two weeks and then weekly after that. That means I only have three more appointments in her office.
She is still measuring great (although she feel super gigormous to me) and her heartbeat was 145 bpm.
She moves all the time, but she stays in the same place. I guess she is just a squirmy little girl that likes to stretch out. Her head is low on the left and her feet are in my ribs on the right. She stays that way all the time. So, she gets my bladder and lungs at the same time...FUN FUN!
The boys are all very excited about her arrival. I get asked at least once a day by one of them when she will be here. Andrew is becoming increasingly more obsessed with my belly (and my belly button) and still likes to tell Mady how much he loves her and give her hugs and kisses frequently. I have to watch him when we are out because he likes to try to pull up my shirt to love on her.
I am to the point where I am ready to be done being pregnant. I am tired of my ever-shrinking wardrobe, feeling blah and tired all the time and just the general uncomfortableness of being nine months pregnant! I think everyday I try and get dressed there are more clothes that DON'T fit me, that did last time I wore them.
I was told by my drs nurse that after today I would start going weekly, but the dr said today I could come back in two weeks and then weekly after that. That means I only have three more appointments in her office.
BBQ
One thing we have really missed since we moved down here is some good bbq! There are drive-thru daiquiri shops and crawfish/seafood everywhere, but not bbq joints.
Last weekend we were driving around and saw a little bbq joint. Today, we went and tried it out! YUM!!!!!!!
I am stuffed. Must be naptime.
Last weekend we were driving around and saw a little bbq joint. Today, we went and tried it out! YUM!!!!!!!
I am stuffed. Must be naptime.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Note From the Teacher
I got a note home yesterday from Bryce's teacher commenting on how well he is reading. He has really gotten it the last few weeks and is doing great. He is amazing me with how well he is sounding out words that he doesn't know.
Milk Back in His Diet!
Over the past week we have been gradually giving Andrew more regualar milk mixed with his Lactaid. He has also been eating whatever we eat, including cheese, sour cream, ice cream, etc. He is loving his new diet and WE are loving the lack of tummy issues.
We have one jug of Lactaid left. After he finishes it we will start buying him whole milk!!!! YAY!!!! It still means buying him special milk (we don't drink whole milk), but I will get twice as much milk for less money than I do with the Lactaid. Also, I can stop buying "special" dinners for him when we are having dairy in our meals.
This is major for us.
We have one jug of Lactaid left. After he finishes it we will start buying him whole milk!!!! YAY!!!! It still means buying him special milk (we don't drink whole milk), but I will get twice as much milk for less money than I do with the Lactaid. Also, I can stop buying "special" dinners for him when we are having dairy in our meals.
This is major for us.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Busy Times
With only four and a half weeks to go, I really need to get busy! In the 10 days before I get induced we have Easter and two birthdays. I would hate to end up in the hospital and not be prepared for any of that!
Paul has Friday off. We have a drs appt that morning and the boys get out of school early (parent/teacher conferences). HOPEFULLY, we can squeeze in getting some of this stuff done.
I have no idea what to get Andrew. I am thinking he needs something for outside. That is his favorite place to be, but all he has out there are a couple of balls and a dump truck. He likes to makes slides out of anything he can, but they are typically not the safest make-shift toy. Maybe we can find a small outdoor playset for him.
I can't believe my baby is turning two in a matter of a couple of weeks. And my hubby is turning THIRTY! April is going to be a BIG month for us!
Paul has Friday off. We have a drs appt that morning and the boys get out of school early (parent/teacher conferences). HOPEFULLY, we can squeeze in getting some of this stuff done.
I have no idea what to get Andrew. I am thinking he needs something for outside. That is his favorite place to be, but all he has out there are a couple of balls and a dump truck. He likes to makes slides out of anything he can, but they are typically not the safest make-shift toy. Maybe we can find a small outdoor playset for him.
I can't believe my baby is turning two in a matter of a couple of weeks. And my hubby is turning THIRTY! April is going to be a BIG month for us!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Bad Conduct
Sunday night I was signing conduct folders. Caleb got EIGHT marks last week.
EIGHT marks.
That means at least eight times he got in trouble last week.
In one week.
Mamma wasn't happy!
I asked him why he got eight marks, he said that he got two marks because someone else was making noise and he got in trouble for it.
That is all the explanation I get? He gets eight marks and he blames TWO on someone else and I am supposed to be okay with that?
I know one day last week when he got home I asked how is day was. He said it was good, except PE. He said they had to watch some "stupid babyish video" and he got a mark because he would not participate. I lectured him on the fact that HE does not decide what he does and does not participate with no matter how babyish, if his teacher says it is what they are doing in class. Less than five minutes later, I saw him watching Yo Gabba Gabba (which has to be one of the most annoying shows on Noggin). I, of course, had to question if what he had to watch at school was MORE babyish than the baby show he was watching and answering questions on. He quickly gave an excuse as to why he was watching the baby show...that came out a blubbering ramble of excuses.
By the way....EIGHT marks is NEVER acceptable!
EIGHT marks.
That means at least eight times he got in trouble last week.
In one week.
Mamma wasn't happy!
I asked him why he got eight marks, he said that he got two marks because someone else was making noise and he got in trouble for it.
That is all the explanation I get? He gets eight marks and he blames TWO on someone else and I am supposed to be okay with that?
I know one day last week when he got home I asked how is day was. He said it was good, except PE. He said they had to watch some "stupid babyish video" and he got a mark because he would not participate. I lectured him on the fact that HE does not decide what he does and does not participate with no matter how babyish, if his teacher says it is what they are doing in class. Less than five minutes later, I saw him watching Yo Gabba Gabba (which has to be one of the most annoying shows on Noggin). I, of course, had to question if what he had to watch at school was MORE babyish than the baby show he was watching and answering questions on. He quickly gave an excuse as to why he was watching the baby show...that came out a blubbering ramble of excuses.
By the way....EIGHT marks is NEVER acceptable!
Monday, March 16, 2009
He is going to make a girl very happy one day. Not only does he WANT to take out the trash (throws a fit if you don't let him), but he wants to rotate the tires too!
Trying to get the tire off
Helping Daddy jack up the Jeep
Just scarey!!
Yelling at Daddy for something.
Moving the jack around...this jack weighs probably at least three times what he weighs!
Beautiful Spring Day...the Queen Gets Her Car Washed
Last week, the guys all worked together to wash my car. The front was COVERED in bugs from our trip to Arkansas. One of the guys was a little busy hamming it up for the camera to actually wash the car though!
Getting Worse
Andrew slept all night and I never even heard a cough!!! YAY!!!!! But, don't you know it...he sleeps all night and I laid in bed for a couple of hours before I could fall asleep and was up and down all night.
I gave him a different medicine before he went to bed last night that really seemed to work. Unfortunately, it was an old prescription that we are almost out of! I know I have enough for tonight, but that is probably it. I will end up having to take him to the dr here to get more because the prescription was written by our dr in Arkansas.
He woke up with green drainage instead of clear and coughing. His cough is now wet and productive sounding, but it is hurting him when he coughs (he actually says "ouch" every time he coughs). I have a feeling we are going to end up in the doctors office this week anyway. :( At least our visits are few and far between now instead of weekly to every other week like they were in Arkansas!
I gave him a different medicine before he went to bed last night that really seemed to work. Unfortunately, it was an old prescription that we are almost out of! I know I have enough for tonight, but that is probably it. I will end up having to take him to the dr here to get more because the prescription was written by our dr in Arkansas.
He woke up with green drainage instead of clear and coughing. His cough is now wet and productive sounding, but it is hurting him when he coughs (he actually says "ouch" every time he coughs). I have a feeling we are going to end up in the doctors office this week anyway. :( At least our visits are few and far between now instead of weekly to every other week like they were in Arkansas!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Non-Sick Streak....OVER!
Actually it is just allergies, and if I had not been up all night I would not consider that sick.
When we went to Arkansas last weekend, Andrew's allergies went crazy. I am talking the red puffy eyes, never-ending runny nose, cough, etc. They have gotten worse all week. We have tried Zyrtec, Benadryl and Claritin for the allergies and Delsym for the cough. Claritin has worked the best (but not great), but the Delsym is doing nothing for the cough.
Now he is also pulling on his ears.
Last night, after listening to him over the monitor coughing, gagging and crying, I got up with him. I went and sat in Mady's room in the big rocking chair hoping him being UP would help with the cough. That was at 11. At 2 he finally stopped coughing. He, however, will not sleep if he is sitting up!
After sitting in the dark for several hours with him in the chair, I thought maybe if I went and laid on the couch with him - with him sitting up - he would go to sleep. Come to find out, the living room looks much different at night! There are glowing lights on the Wii and DVR, the coffee pot in the kitchen glows and can be seen in the living room. There is also no fan noise so he heard everytime the cat meowed or ran through or someone got up. Just too much middle-of-the-night excitement to sleep!
He did not start settling down for sleep until 4:30 this morning. By that time, I was so uncomfortable and in so much pain, I couldn't sleep. He finally fell asleep somewhere between 5 and 5:30 and he was out! I was able to sit him back up several times without him moving.
At 7, for some reason, instead of just opening his door, Bryce had to pound on it like Andrew does in the mornings (Andrew CANNOT open the doors - he has an excuse). This, of course, woke up Andrew. I went and put Andrew in my bed and he went right to sleep for a few more minutes, but it was just too crazy with kids running around slamming doors, etc.
He is fully charged and energetic.....although I don't know how. I am VERY crabby and exhausted and hurting. SO, while he helps Daddy rotate his tires, I am going back to bed! I don't know that I will actually get to sleep, but it is worth a try?
When we went to Arkansas last weekend, Andrew's allergies went crazy. I am talking the red puffy eyes, never-ending runny nose, cough, etc. They have gotten worse all week. We have tried Zyrtec, Benadryl and Claritin for the allergies and Delsym for the cough. Claritin has worked the best (but not great), but the Delsym is doing nothing for the cough.
Now he is also pulling on his ears.
Last night, after listening to him over the monitor coughing, gagging and crying, I got up with him. I went and sat in Mady's room in the big rocking chair hoping him being UP would help with the cough. That was at 11. At 2 he finally stopped coughing. He, however, will not sleep if he is sitting up!
After sitting in the dark for several hours with him in the chair, I thought maybe if I went and laid on the couch with him - with him sitting up - he would go to sleep. Come to find out, the living room looks much different at night! There are glowing lights on the Wii and DVR, the coffee pot in the kitchen glows and can be seen in the living room. There is also no fan noise so he heard everytime the cat meowed or ran through or someone got up. Just too much middle-of-the-night excitement to sleep!
He did not start settling down for sleep until 4:30 this morning. By that time, I was so uncomfortable and in so much pain, I couldn't sleep. He finally fell asleep somewhere between 5 and 5:30 and he was out! I was able to sit him back up several times without him moving.
At 7, for some reason, instead of just opening his door, Bryce had to pound on it like Andrew does in the mornings (Andrew CANNOT open the doors - he has an excuse). This, of course, woke up Andrew. I went and put Andrew in my bed and he went right to sleep for a few more minutes, but it was just too crazy with kids running around slamming doors, etc.
He is fully charged and energetic.....although I don't know how. I am VERY crabby and exhausted and hurting. SO, while he helps Daddy rotate his tires, I am going back to bed! I don't know that I will actually get to sleep, but it is worth a try?
Saturday, March 14, 2009
School Thefts
There has been a bunch of thefts at schools in our parish over the last week. I don't know how many people are involved but obviously a lot. They are going into the schools, finding empty classrooms and stealing credit/debit cards and cell phones out of teachers purses.
Thursday and Friday they hit my childrens schools. There are like six schools in our district and they hit the two that MY kids go to.
I would like to know how they are getting in and why are they able to get away with this. Doesn't do much to make a parent feel as though their child is safe at school. If someone can get in and walk around long enough, without being noticed, that they are stealing from teachers purses, what is to stop someone with a gun from coming in to the school? Or someone from hiding out and taking a child?
Sounds to me like something needs to be done about school security!
Thursday and Friday they hit my childrens schools. There are like six schools in our district and they hit the two that MY kids go to.
I would like to know how they are getting in and why are they able to get away with this. Doesn't do much to make a parent feel as though their child is safe at school. If someone can get in and walk around long enough, without being noticed, that they are stealing from teachers purses, what is to stop someone with a gun from coming in to the school? Or someone from hiding out and taking a child?
Sounds to me like something needs to be done about school security!
Friday, March 13, 2009
The Monkey
This morning when I went to get the kids up, Andrew was in Bryce's bed - on the top bunk. He has climbed the first step or two before, but never all the way up. He even climbed all the way down by himself without falling.
He is almost two.....that means he is ten feet tall and bullet proof.
He is almost two.....that means he is ten feet tall and bullet proof.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Snuggle Bug
Out of the four boys, I am SO lucky that Andrew is the one that is home with me when I am not feeling well. I was in pain today, not contractions, just Mady pushing on something that really hurt all day. I basically laid on the couch all day and Andrew laid right next to me. He is a big snuggle bug, especially if there are cartoons on that he likes. So, we chilled and watched cartoons all morning (and Mommy dozed off and on). Then he went and took his nap as normal.
At dinner he was constantly twirlling his fork. Guess he had some pent up energy he needed to get rid of! He did get to go play outside when Daddy got home, too.
At dinner he was constantly twirlling his fork. Guess he had some pent up energy he needed to get rid of! He did get to go play outside when Daddy got home, too.
The Case of the Missing Trash Can
We have a drawer built in in our kitchen that our trash goes in. There are two small trashcans in it. Last night, Daddy took the trash out, but left the trashcan sitting on the floor. I had also stepped outside. Apparently while we were outside Andrew took off with the trashcan.
We looked EVERYWHERE last night (Daddy and I) and could not find the trashcan anywhere. This morning I looked some more, could not find it. I asked Andrew where it was and he pointed at the kitchen. Caleb said he thought it was in the drawer.
The trashcan was in the drawer it is supposed to be in the entire time. Andrew's favorite thing to do right now is to stack and unstack. The missing trashcan was INSIDE the other trashcan.
I was beginning to think he found a way to flush a trashcan down the toilet!
We looked EVERYWHERE last night (Daddy and I) and could not find the trashcan anywhere. This morning I looked some more, could not find it. I asked Andrew where it was and he pointed at the kitchen. Caleb said he thought it was in the drawer.
The trashcan was in the drawer it is supposed to be in the entire time. Andrew's favorite thing to do right now is to stack and unstack. The missing trashcan was INSIDE the other trashcan.
I was beginning to think he found a way to flush a trashcan down the toilet!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Recession
I just read where Louisiana is the only state whose joblessness has actually improved. They say a lot of it has to do with the constant rebuilding and revitalization from Hurricane Katrina (among the others since).
This is the midst of MANY layoffs at plants like the one Paul works at. Great to know Louisiana is doing better than most, but still very scarey as a one income family where layoffs are still happening.
This is the midst of MANY layoffs at plants like the one Paul works at. Great to know Louisiana is doing better than most, but still very scarey as a one income family where layoffs are still happening.
Story Time
I took Andrew to story time again at the library. This is only the second time he has gone, and last week he enjoyed himself but didn't want to take an active role, until playtime. This week, he tried to do all the movements to all the nursery rhymes (I LOVE watching him try and do Itsy Bitsy Spider...his spider is too cute), he clapped after every rhyme and story, he said the animals in the open-flap book, etc.
I thought he was older than all the other kids, but today some of the Moms were talking about the ages of their kids. Most of them are within a month or two of Andrew's age. Andrew is actually BIG compared to these kids. Never thought I would see the day.....
I love seeing him get more interactive with other kids. Thinking about starting MDO next year.
He gets very excited about the books. We get there early so he can check out some books. He doesn't even look at the books typically. He goes up and down every aisle and picks up some books and puts them in his bag. He DID get really excited when he grabbed a Curious George book. We ended up with quite a few "JO" (that is what he calls Curious George) books.
I thought he was older than all the other kids, but today some of the Moms were talking about the ages of their kids. Most of them are within a month or two of Andrew's age. Andrew is actually BIG compared to these kids. Never thought I would see the day.....
I love seeing him get more interactive with other kids. Thinking about starting MDO next year.
He gets very excited about the books. We get there early so he can check out some books. He doesn't even look at the books typically. He goes up and down every aisle and picks up some books and puts them in his bag. He DID get really excited when he grabbed a Curious George book. We ended up with quite a few "JO" (that is what he calls Curious George) books.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
House Offer
After talking to our realtor, who completely agrees with us that the offer was insulting, we completely rejected the offer that we received last night. If this guy is serious, he will rethink his offer.
The realtor said in all his years of doing real estate (and he has been doing it for a while AND teaches real estate) he has NEVER seen an offer this bad.
Here is the problem....his realtor is the wife of the realtor we bought the house from. Also, our old realtor is with this company now. AND, our old neighbors across the street are realtors with this company. Although all personal information is supposed to be completely private forever, it is obvious this guy received too much information on us. These realtors know what we paid for the house, what we put down, etc. For this offer to have been made, this guy is either high on something or was given information that he should not have been given. We are losing money on this house at its list price, there is no way I am giving this guy $20,000 off. NOTHING on that street sold for what he is wanting.
His realtor says there is another house he is looking at that has a refrigerator and storage shed. If we did not agree to his offer he was going to take that house. Well, take the house! We researched this guy and he is a shady guy to begin with (the guy that made the offer). I will not lose sleep over this decision.
Our house is priced the lowest in the city for it's size and there are not many for sale in that size. There are a couple of other people that are apparently very interested in the house and the realtor feels we will be selling it very soon.
The realtor said in all his years of doing real estate (and he has been doing it for a while AND teaches real estate) he has NEVER seen an offer this bad.
Here is the problem....his realtor is the wife of the realtor we bought the house from. Also, our old realtor is with this company now. AND, our old neighbors across the street are realtors with this company. Although all personal information is supposed to be completely private forever, it is obvious this guy received too much information on us. These realtors know what we paid for the house, what we put down, etc. For this offer to have been made, this guy is either high on something or was given information that he should not have been given. We are losing money on this house at its list price, there is no way I am giving this guy $20,000 off. NOTHING on that street sold for what he is wanting.
His realtor says there is another house he is looking at that has a refrigerator and storage shed. If we did not agree to his offer he was going to take that house. Well, take the house! We researched this guy and he is a shady guy to begin with (the guy that made the offer). I will not lose sleep over this decision.
Our house is priced the lowest in the city for it's size and there are not many for sale in that size. There are a couple of other people that are apparently very interested in the house and the realtor feels we will be selling it very soon.
Multi-Tasking To a Whole New Level
I had to go grocery shopping this morning. For some reason this family likes to eat.....a LOT!! For example, in my lack of energy yesterday I made a comment of having waffles for dinner. Caleb says waffles are NOT a dinner food. He then suggested we had chips or ice cream for dinner. Not sure when THOSE became dinner foods!!
Anyways.....while grocery shopping I multi-tasked in a way I never would have imagined. While entertaining my two year old (who was throwing EVERYTHING he could reach out of the buggy and laughing when I had to pick it up), trying to remember everything we needed (I had no list of course), and actually getting everything, I had the worst, most breath-taking contractions I have had to date (with this pregnancy). The ENTIRE time I was grocery shopping. Might explain why it took so long and seemed like I got so little.
Now, I will put the groceries away, put Andrew down for a nap and take one myself!
Anyways.....while grocery shopping I multi-tasked in a way I never would have imagined. While entertaining my two year old (who was throwing EVERYTHING he could reach out of the buggy and laughing when I had to pick it up), trying to remember everything we needed (I had no list of course), and actually getting everything, I had the worst, most breath-taking contractions I have had to date (with this pregnancy). The ENTIRE time I was grocery shopping. Might explain why it took so long and seemed like I got so little.
Now, I will put the groceries away, put Andrew down for a nap and take one myself!
Loving the Time Change
I guess I bought the alarm clocks a little prematurely. The boys were doing great not getting up until their clocks said 7, like I told them. Friday morning our electricity went off and came right back on. Bryce was concerned because it was before seven and he said his clock would never say seven now.
Well, now we had time change. I am not sure if it is time change or the long weekend with late nights or a combination of both, but I am having to get the kids up. It has been so nice! Even Andrew is getting to sleep in (which he didnt sleep last night...he has a nasty cough, I think from his allergies. He got stuffy and puffy while we were in Arkansas.)
Here is to it staying dark later in the morning and light later at night! It was well worth the lost hour (for me anyway, since I lose MANY hours every night).
Well, now we had time change. I am not sure if it is time change or the long weekend with late nights or a combination of both, but I am having to get the kids up. It has been so nice! Even Andrew is getting to sleep in (which he didnt sleep last night...he has a nasty cough, I think from his allergies. He got stuffy and puffy while we were in Arkansas.)
Here is to it staying dark later in the morning and light later at night! It was well worth the lost hour (for me anyway, since I lose MANY hours every night).
Too Cute
Andrew, wearing pajamas with a monkey on the front, a safari hat and carrying a firetruck flashlight.
Guard Dog
We have a brown lab that is running around our neighborhood. Yesterday when Paul and our neighbor were out doing yardwork the dog was staying underneath them annoying them. It gets all up in our flowerbeds and stays close to the fence all the time.
Paul tried spraying it with water yesterday, it didnt care. We did find a way to scare it off, though. Accidently.
We were outside yesterday afternoon cleaning some stuff up. Trip (our cocker spaniel) was out with us. Trip starts going crazy, so I go over to the driveway to see what is going on. Trip can fit his head and about half his shoulders through the slats on the fence. He had the other dog by the neck. He does not normally attack like that, but has proven himself to be a guard dog many times. I called him and he let go and came to me and the other dog ran away.
I let Trip out this morning and heard him barking. I went and looked out the window and the dog was across the street. It looked at Trip and took off down the street.
Today is trash day. Maybe I should leave Trip outside to keep the dog scared away from our trash. :)
Paul tried spraying it with water yesterday, it didnt care. We did find a way to scare it off, though. Accidently.
We were outside yesterday afternoon cleaning some stuff up. Trip (our cocker spaniel) was out with us. Trip starts going crazy, so I go over to the driveway to see what is going on. Trip can fit his head and about half his shoulders through the slats on the fence. He had the other dog by the neck. He does not normally attack like that, but has proven himself to be a guard dog many times. I called him and he let go and came to me and the other dog ran away.
I let Trip out this morning and heard him barking. I went and looked out the window and the dog was across the street. It looked at Trip and took off down the street.
Today is trash day. Maybe I should leave Trip outside to keep the dog scared away from our trash. :)
Offer on House
We got an offer last night on the house. We have not talked to the realtor yet, but will not accept the offer as is. He emailed the offer at 10:30 last night and we were already in bed.
We are being offered almost $10,000 less than the asking price. They want us to pay $6000 of their closing cost, give a $500 home warranty along with a couple of other things that will cost us money (surveys, etc).
My favorite.....they want us to pay them a $2000 allowance for a refrigerator and storage shed. Hmmmm.....
It is a move in the right direction, but I would like to get SOMETHING out of what I have put in!
We are being offered almost $10,000 less than the asking price. They want us to pay $6000 of their closing cost, give a $500 home warranty along with a couple of other things that will cost us money (surveys, etc).
My favorite.....they want us to pay them a $2000 allowance for a refrigerator and storage shed. Hmmmm.....
It is a move in the right direction, but I would like to get SOMETHING out of what I have put in!
Monday, March 09, 2009
Conversations with Boys
On the way home last night, I commented that I had a baby pushing on my bladder (my hint to Daddy that a potty break was looming). Bryce heard me and says "Daddy, Mommy is talking potty talk!" This started a whole long WRONG conversation of potty talk between too many boys.
We went from talking about a bladder to poopoo splatter (which is a joke in this house because we went and ate chinese food a long time ago with my parents. They ordered the Poo Poo Platter. The boys, of course, hear and start giggling. The next time we went, without my parents, we sat down and Isaac LOUDLY asked if we could order a PooPoo Splatter.). You can see where this conversation is headed....
I finally start getting that conversation ended and calmed down and Caleb asked who wanted to smell his fart. Everyone says no, except Bryce who said he wanted to. I am waiting for Caleb to do IT in Bryce's face anytime now. I guess it will teach him.
See how fun traveling with boys is. Oh wait, this is not just traveling talk. This is everyday stuff with a house of boys! You just throw in lots of "how much further" and "I need to potty" comments and THAT makes it traveling fun!
Paul is just like my Dad though. Paul told the boys we would stop for dinner in 45 minutes. About 20 minutes later someone asks when we would eat he said in 45 MILES. They asked several more times in that 45 miles and Daddy always said "in 45 minutes". My Dad was always great at doing things like that. And, when backpacking if we asked how much further we had to hike he ALWAYS answered "just around the curve". Eventually we learned he would never say WHICH curve!!
We went from talking about a bladder to poopoo splatter (which is a joke in this house because we went and ate chinese food a long time ago with my parents. They ordered the Poo Poo Platter. The boys, of course, hear and start giggling. The next time we went, without my parents, we sat down and Isaac LOUDLY asked if we could order a PooPoo Splatter.). You can see where this conversation is headed....
I finally start getting that conversation ended and calmed down and Caleb asked who wanted to smell his fart. Everyone says no, except Bryce who said he wanted to. I am waiting for Caleb to do IT in Bryce's face anytime now. I guess it will teach him.
See how fun traveling with boys is. Oh wait, this is not just traveling talk. This is everyday stuff with a house of boys! You just throw in lots of "how much further" and "I need to potty" comments and THAT makes it traveling fun!
Paul is just like my Dad though. Paul told the boys we would stop for dinner in 45 minutes. About 20 minutes later someone asks when we would eat he said in 45 MILES. They asked several more times in that 45 miles and Daddy always said "in 45 minutes". My Dad was always great at doing things like that. And, when backpacking if we asked how much further we had to hike he ALWAYS answered "just around the curve". Eventually we learned he would never say WHICH curve!!
33 Week Checkup
I had my doctors appointment Friday morning before we went to Arkansas. She is still measuring great and her heart rate was right at 150 bpm (much better than last times). We discussed her size and movement. We changed the appointments to Fridays so Paul could go to them (he has every other Friday off). I feel like she is HUGE, but the doctor said she is not measuring big. She asked about the sizes of the boys and said they were pretty good sized babies for my size. So, she said if we get to concerned as we get closer we could do a sonogram. I don't know that I NEED to know if I am going to have a 10 pound baby. That may stress me out even more than the WHEN of the delivery.
Paul pointed out to the doctor that she is the most active out of all of the kids and that it is sometimes gross (Thanks Dear!). I must admit, the constant major moving of my stomach gets old! Her movements are also a lot different than the boys were. Daddy thinks an alien is trying to bust through my stomach at times.
This doctor just said what all of my other doctors said with all the other babies. I have a perfect place to grow babies. They all do great and seem to like it where they are (although she seems to want OUT).
I go back in two weeks and after that we start going weekly. Six more weeks from today, if we make it that long!!
On a side note, I have never in four pregnancies (and up to now with this one) had much problem with hand and feet swelling. This weekend though..... I had taken off my rings to clean the bathrooms. I went to put them back on and they would not go on. It was not a case of being tight, they were not fitting at all! My socks were VERY tight too! This morning was the first time I was able to put them back on and they are tight.
Paul pointed out to the doctor that she is the most active out of all of the kids and that it is sometimes gross (Thanks Dear!). I must admit, the constant major moving of my stomach gets old! Her movements are also a lot different than the boys were. Daddy thinks an alien is trying to bust through my stomach at times.
This doctor just said what all of my other doctors said with all the other babies. I have a perfect place to grow babies. They all do great and seem to like it where they are (although she seems to want OUT).
I go back in two weeks and after that we start going weekly. Six more weeks from today, if we make it that long!!
On a side note, I have never in four pregnancies (and up to now with this one) had much problem with hand and feet swelling. This weekend though..... I had taken off my rings to clean the bathrooms. I went to put them back on and they would not go on. It was not a case of being tight, they were not fitting at all! My socks were VERY tight too! This morning was the first time I was able to put them back on and they are tight.
Horrible Weekend
Well, this weekend SUCKED!!! It was long and exhausting for all of us. But, the house is finally clean and painted and yard work is done. Maybe it will sell soon!
Our plan was to be on the road at lunchtime yesterday. We did not leave until 5:30 last night. We got home around midnight and the boys had to get up and go to school today. They did sleep some in the car, but it was not near enough! Everyone is dragging this morning!
Friday night we got to bed VERY late. I woke up in the middle of the night with the worse contractions I had had so far. I thought we might have to go to the hospital, but they finally stopped. They were consistent is spacing, length and VERY strong. Unfortunately, we had too much to get done for me NOT to help out, although Paul did a lot!
The boys spent all day Saturday outside. We have gone back and forth about whether or not to make the boys another sandbox. I think after this weekend we have decided to make one here. Bryce and Andrew played in it ALL day. The older three were also put to work helping Dad with the yard, pulling weeds, etc.
Sunday the kids all stayed inside because they got SO nasty Saturday and I did not want to have to bathe them after scrubbing bathrooms! The older three played their Gameboys and read and Andrew "helped" us clean and paint. I did put the boys to work some, making them scrub baseboards, clean dirt and dust out of the carpet at the baseboards, etc.
Overall, considering the weekend, late nights and nothing to do, the boys did very well.
On the way home last night, we stopped at an Arby's that is attached to a gas station for dinner. As we were leaving we noticed that just about every pump at the gas station had a detention center van at it. Mom asked if we were loading the kids into the vans. I pointed out that we have our OWN detention center!!
Paul took the day off today, and after all the work he did this weekend, he is having to take care of THIS yard today. It is much warmer here so we actually already have green grass, lots of weeds and it all has to be done weekly.
I am hurting in places I did not know existed. The trip home was long and uncomfortable. Mady decided to make sure I stayed awake with Daddy by making me have contractions for about the last half of the trip. We mapped out all the hospitals on the way and decided which ones looked the best, just in case. Luckily we did not need them! Daddy did ask everytime we were by one though.
I am trying to take it easy today (this week) and not do too much, although with a house full of boys, cleaning is a DAILY thing or it gets bad quick!
Our plan was to be on the road at lunchtime yesterday. We did not leave until 5:30 last night. We got home around midnight and the boys had to get up and go to school today. They did sleep some in the car, but it was not near enough! Everyone is dragging this morning!
Friday night we got to bed VERY late. I woke up in the middle of the night with the worse contractions I had had so far. I thought we might have to go to the hospital, but they finally stopped. They were consistent is spacing, length and VERY strong. Unfortunately, we had too much to get done for me NOT to help out, although Paul did a lot!
The boys spent all day Saturday outside. We have gone back and forth about whether or not to make the boys another sandbox. I think after this weekend we have decided to make one here. Bryce and Andrew played in it ALL day. The older three were also put to work helping Dad with the yard, pulling weeds, etc.
Sunday the kids all stayed inside because they got SO nasty Saturday and I did not want to have to bathe them after scrubbing bathrooms! The older three played their Gameboys and read and Andrew "helped" us clean and paint. I did put the boys to work some, making them scrub baseboards, clean dirt and dust out of the carpet at the baseboards, etc.
Overall, considering the weekend, late nights and nothing to do, the boys did very well.
On the way home last night, we stopped at an Arby's that is attached to a gas station for dinner. As we were leaving we noticed that just about every pump at the gas station had a detention center van at it. Mom asked if we were loading the kids into the vans. I pointed out that we have our OWN detention center!!
Paul took the day off today, and after all the work he did this weekend, he is having to take care of THIS yard today. It is much warmer here so we actually already have green grass, lots of weeds and it all has to be done weekly.
I am hurting in places I did not know existed. The trip home was long and uncomfortable. Mady decided to make sure I stayed awake with Daddy by making me have contractions for about the last half of the trip. We mapped out all the hospitals on the way and decided which ones looked the best, just in case. Luckily we did not need them! Daddy did ask everytime we were by one though.
I am trying to take it easy today (this week) and not do too much, although with a house full of boys, cleaning is a DAILY thing or it gets bad quick!
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Pull Out the Garbage Bags (Contractor Size)
You probably think this post is about some major cleaning project we are doing, like yard work or throwing away toys, etc.
Nope!
THIS post is about what I am going to be wearing for the next six weeks. I have TWO shirts that fit me. I put on shirts that fit me the last time I put them on a couple of weeks ago, but today do not even cover my belly. I really don't want to go buy maternity clothes with only six weeks left, but two shirts don't go very far!
I am getting concerned about just how big this "little" girl is going to be!
She has found her comfortable spot. She still moves ALL. THE. TIME. But, I have one spot that feels like she has bruised from the inside. It hurts when she pushes on it and it hurts when I push her off of it.
Nope!
THIS post is about what I am going to be wearing for the next six weeks. I have TWO shirts that fit me. I put on shirts that fit me the last time I put them on a couple of weeks ago, but today do not even cover my belly. I really don't want to go buy maternity clothes with only six weeks left, but two shirts don't go very far!
I am getting concerned about just how big this "little" girl is going to be!
She has found her comfortable spot. She still moves ALL. THE. TIME. But, I have one spot that feels like she has bruised from the inside. It hurts when she pushes on it and it hurts when I push her off of it.
Crying Over Dead Bugs
Bryce got upset this morning. I asked him what was wrong, and he asked why all the Bryce Bugs died in the aquarium. I told him they were probably just sleeping because the light was off.
He will be happy to know, when he gets home, that his Bryce bugs are still swimming around!
He will be happy to know, when he gets home, that his Bryce bugs are still swimming around!
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Great Weather and Energy!
When you live in a house full of boys, a dog, a cat and a bird, any day that you can open your windows and not freeze or burn up is a blessing of a day!
Today is a beautiful blessing of a day!!
To top it all off, I have lots of energy today I must be pregnant or something. I have energy swings like mood swings!!). I have gotten the house cleaned, the back porch cleaned and swept (and the porch is huge) and some other light work that needed to be done outside completed. It is not planting the flowers I want and need to plant, but I don't want to over do it.
I think the great weather helps the energy too!
Last weekend, we went and got Daddy a new, nice gas grill. We have had a cheap, horrible charcoal (although we like the flavor of charcoal grilling) since we moved down here. That is part of Daddy's BIG 3-0 birthday present, so we let him spend a little more than I would normally spend for a grill!! But he did his research on it.
Tonight, he is putting that great grill to work. We will enjoy the weather outside while grilling some BBQ chicken. YUM!!!!
Today is a beautiful blessing of a day!!
To top it all off, I have lots of energy today I must be pregnant or something. I have energy swings like mood swings!!). I have gotten the house cleaned, the back porch cleaned and swept (and the porch is huge) and some other light work that needed to be done outside completed. It is not planting the flowers I want and need to plant, but I don't want to over do it.
I think the great weather helps the energy too!
Last weekend, we went and got Daddy a new, nice gas grill. We have had a cheap, horrible charcoal (although we like the flavor of charcoal grilling) since we moved down here. That is part of Daddy's BIG 3-0 birthday present, so we let him spend a little more than I would normally spend for a grill!! But he did his research on it.
Tonight, he is putting that great grill to work. We will enjoy the weather outside while grilling some BBQ chicken. YUM!!!!
Storytime
I took Andrew to storytime at the library this morning. There were about seven toddlers there. The librarian does a great job, especially with seven toddlers running around while she is reading!
Andrew loved it. They started out doing nursery rhymes and songs. He did not get too involved in the music, but he sat there sucking his thumb with a HUGE smile on his face. He was a little more involved with the stories. At home when we read, the first time through the book we just talk about what is in the pictures. I found that if I try to just read the story to him he spends the whole time pointing to things in the pictures. So, we go through the book, look at pictures and then we read the story. While we are reading the book we choose one thing to point out on each page. He does great with this at HOME. At the library, he wanted to get up and stand in front of the librarian so he could point to the pictures. Doesn't work quite as well there!! But, overall, he did a great job for his first time.
After the music and stories they let the kids color and play with toys. There were bins with building stuff (knex, clipos, etc), a bin of mardi gras beads, puzzles, etc. He tested out all the toys, but he found a bunch of plastic cups. He spent the rest of the time we were there stacking cups and unstacking cups. He had a great time. We were there about an hour and he came home and passed out.
Andrew loved it. They started out doing nursery rhymes and songs. He did not get too involved in the music, but he sat there sucking his thumb with a HUGE smile on his face. He was a little more involved with the stories. At home when we read, the first time through the book we just talk about what is in the pictures. I found that if I try to just read the story to him he spends the whole time pointing to things in the pictures. So, we go through the book, look at pictures and then we read the story. While we are reading the book we choose one thing to point out on each page. He does great with this at HOME. At the library, he wanted to get up and stand in front of the librarian so he could point to the pictures. Doesn't work quite as well there!! But, overall, he did a great job for his first time.
After the music and stories they let the kids color and play with toys. There were bins with building stuff (knex, clipos, etc), a bin of mardi gras beads, puzzles, etc. He tested out all the toys, but he found a bunch of plastic cups. He spent the rest of the time we were there stacking cups and unstacking cups. He had a great time. We were there about an hour and he came home and passed out.
Bryce is Reading
I was not sure it would ever happen. Bryce is reading, very well! I honestly wondered if he would get it because he doesn't sit still long enough to teach him how to read. When he would sit with us and let us read, he would copy everything we say instead of listening.
The books he got from the library were easy reader books. Yesterday he read them to us. He only asked for help a couple of times, and he actually knew the word, just asked if he was right.
He has just suddenly picked it up. The first list of words that were sent home from school, I was not sure we would ever get. Now, he is getting words quickly and easily sounding out words he does not know.
I am so proud of him and his progress.
The books he got from the library were easy reader books. Yesterday he read them to us. He only asked for help a couple of times, and he actually knew the word, just asked if he was right.
He has just suddenly picked it up. The first list of words that were sent home from school, I was not sure we would ever get. Now, he is getting words quickly and easily sounding out words he does not know.
I am so proud of him and his progress.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Bryce Bugs
Paul was working on his fish tank tonight. Bryce likes to sit and stare and study everything in the tank. He was somewhat helping Daddy, but then disappeared to the side of the tank. Daddy asked what he was doing and he said he was looking at the bugs. Daddy ignored him for a while, but he was so adament about it that he finally went to look. Sure enough, there are tiny little white ladybug looking bugs in the bottom of the tank.
Daddy told Bryce they were Bryce Bugs. Bryce looked at him funny and Daddy explained that sometimes scientist name their findings after themselves.
Bryce is very proud to have Bryce Bugs in Daddy's tank. We assume they came from the plants that he ordered and put in there.
Daddy told Bryce they were Bryce Bugs. Bryce looked at him funny and Daddy explained that sometimes scientist name their findings after themselves.
Bryce is very proud to have Bryce Bugs in Daddy's tank. We assume they came from the plants that he ordered and put in there.
Dead Day
Something....make that SOMEONE, is sucking the life right out of me today. I cannot get going today, and it is 3:30! I told Daddy she must be doubling in size today because EVERY ounce of energy in me is gone.
Andrew has been great today. He laid on the couch with me all morning and watched cartoons. Then he took a long nap (as did I). I decided I should probably NOT lay on the couch this afternoon when he went and got me BOTH his blankies, gave me a kiss, said night-night and went and sat down. Nothing good can come from a two year old tucking me in and acting innocent!! I think his brain was working overtime with what he could get into.
If everyone is lucky, I will muster the energy to fix dinner. If not, sorry Daddy, but it will be waiting on you. This is me listening to my body and taking it easy today.
(I DID load the dishwasher and do the laundry, so it hasn't been a completely lazy day.)
Andrew has been great today. He laid on the couch with me all morning and watched cartoons. Then he took a long nap (as did I). I decided I should probably NOT lay on the couch this afternoon when he went and got me BOTH his blankies, gave me a kiss, said night-night and went and sat down. Nothing good can come from a two year old tucking me in and acting innocent!! I think his brain was working overtime with what he could get into.
If everyone is lucky, I will muster the energy to fix dinner. If not, sorry Daddy, but it will be waiting on you. This is me listening to my body and taking it easy today.
(I DID load the dishwasher and do the laundry, so it hasn't been a completely lazy day.)
Blonde Moment
Isaac just came out of his room with a confused look on his face.
"They made my underwear wrong. They put the tag on the outside of my underwear."
He was dead serious.
"They made my underwear wrong. They put the tag on the outside of my underwear."
He was dead serious.
Library Visit
We took all the boys to the library last night to get their cards. When they saw that Andrew had one, they ALL wanted one (as we figured they would). It took a LONG time just to get the information put into the computer system (I had brought home the applications to fill out) for four people.
I took Isaac over to the easy-readers. He just grabbed 8 books off the shelf and was done. He didn't even look at what he got. Bryce grabbed a few off the shelf and then asked for fireman books.
Caleb.....oh Caleb! He got several books on the Titanic, a book on the Hindenburg, a cookbook an origami book and tried to get a book on smoking. I asked why the book on smoking. He said that it would teach him not to smoke. I told him I thought he already knew better. He said he did, but this would teach him the bad effects and scare him away from them. Is smoking something he is considering?
As the boys were checking out, the older man checking Caleb out commented on the books on the Titanic and Hindenburg. Caleb says "I just like destruction." Isn't that right!!!!!
The man told him he should get books on CONSTRUCTION instead of DESTRUCTION!
I took Isaac over to the easy-readers. He just grabbed 8 books off the shelf and was done. He didn't even look at what he got. Bryce grabbed a few off the shelf and then asked for fireman books.
Caleb.....oh Caleb! He got several books on the Titanic, a book on the Hindenburg, a cookbook an origami book and tried to get a book on smoking. I asked why the book on smoking. He said that it would teach him not to smoke. I told him I thought he already knew better. He said he did, but this would teach him the bad effects and scare him away from them. Is smoking something he is considering?
As the boys were checking out, the older man checking Caleb out commented on the books on the Titanic and Hindenburg. Caleb says "I just like destruction." Isn't that right!!!!!
The man told him he should get books on CONSTRUCTION instead of DESTRUCTION!
"I am Jealous."
Last night I asked Bryce if he turned in his field trip money. He said his teacher would not take it so he gave it to a students mother. Daddy said that if he did not turn it in to the correct person he would not get to go on the field trip. There was silence. I told him if he was concerned about it to ask his teacher if she got it.
A few minutes later Bryce says, "I am pretty jealous about it."
"What?" I asked. I had not heard him use the word jealous before.
"I am pretty jealous about whether I gave the money to the right person."
"You mean concerned?"
I asked if all of the kids were giving their money to this parent, he said they were along with permission slips, so I am sure he gave it to the right person.
A few minutes later Bryce says, "I am pretty jealous about it."
"What?" I asked. I had not heard him use the word jealous before.
"I am pretty jealous about whether I gave the money to the right person."
"You mean concerned?"
I asked if all of the kids were giving their money to this parent, he said they were along with permission slips, so I am sure he gave it to the right person.
Monday, March 02, 2009
We had to go run a few errands this morning. Andrew insisted on wearing this hat. Would have been great if it wasn't so windy (and I had brought the stroller).
FYI: I don't recommend taking a two year old to the post office on a Monday morning without a stroller. Especially while carrying a wrapped gift and trying to find a box it will fit in. On the up side, everyone who was in the post office had their days lifted by Andrew walking up and greeting them each, individually with a wave and hearty hello.
Gotta love him!
We need to work on those sweet, but loud, hellos and goodbyes at the library too. :)
Caleb Translations
These are some words Caleb CONTINUOUSLY mispronounces. I am really beginning to think he does this on purpose. He is the type that absorbs every thing he hears like a sponge, yet he can't remember how to pronounce these common words?
bass = base;
citrus = sytrus;
hammock = ham-ock;
algae = allergy
bass = base;
citrus = sytrus;
hammock = ham-ock;
algae = allergy
FINALLY!!
Among the many things we have NOT done since we moved into our house six months ago, was visit the library. I know, I know, but my lack of energy and busyness with various house projects, etc., it is just something we have not taken the time to do.
This morning, while I was out running errands, I decided to check it out. I want the boys to be familiar with it before this summer because they all love to read and can be involved with the library kids programs.
Sadly, Andrew is the first of all of the boys to get a library card here. I wasn't going to get him one since he can't keep up with his own (the older three will be responsible for their own), but the librarian told me I should because the kids cards do not accrue fines. CHANGE MY MIND QUICK!! They are only allowed to check out books from the kids section, but I don't forsee AJ looking for books on making rockets anytime soon (Caleb might be another story).
The older boys can check out research books for school assignments on their cards, but that is the only exception.
Each card can have FIFTY things checked out at one time. We won't tell the kids that!! Can you imagine, I would need a Uhaul to get it all home!!!
I am going to try to start taking Andrew to story time on Wednesday mornings. He needs to get around other kids his age. It is right around his naptime, so we will try and see how it goes.
The boys will be excited to learn that they will get to go get their own cards and start visiting the library. :)
This morning, while I was out running errands, I decided to check it out. I want the boys to be familiar with it before this summer because they all love to read and can be involved with the library kids programs.
Sadly, Andrew is the first of all of the boys to get a library card here. I wasn't going to get him one since he can't keep up with his own (the older three will be responsible for their own), but the librarian told me I should because the kids cards do not accrue fines. CHANGE MY MIND QUICK!! They are only allowed to check out books from the kids section, but I don't forsee AJ looking for books on making rockets anytime soon (Caleb might be another story).
The older boys can check out research books for school assignments on their cards, but that is the only exception.
Each card can have FIFTY things checked out at one time. We won't tell the kids that!! Can you imagine, I would need a Uhaul to get it all home!!!
I am going to try to start taking Andrew to story time on Wednesday mornings. He needs to get around other kids his age. It is right around his naptime, so we will try and see how it goes.
The boys will be excited to learn that they will get to go get their own cards and start visiting the library. :)
Lactose Intolerant, No More?
It appears as though Andrew might be outgrowing his lactose intolerance problems. After he was given ice cream the other day and had NO problems from it, we have been a little more lenient on giving him food with lactose in it (like baked potatoes with cheese AND sour cream). Even eating this stuff, his "diaper issues" seem to be getting BETTER!
Daddy and I are thinking how awesome it would not have to buy the special milk and food for him. We would save a minimum of $12 a week JUST in lactose free milk.
We are not going to just stop the diet he has been on. We will keep slowly trying different things and see how his tummy handles it. We are very encouraged by what we are seeing, though. Especially since we were told he probably would not outgrow it!
Daddy and I are thinking how awesome it would not have to buy the special milk and food for him. We would save a minimum of $12 a week JUST in lactose free milk.
We are not going to just stop the diet he has been on. We will keep slowly trying different things and see how his tummy handles it. We are very encouraged by what we are seeing, though. Especially since we were told he probably would not outgrow it!
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