Life as we Live it

More bday recap and misc...

2011-01-30T21:38:00.002-06:00

More Bday recap... This year, our E-man decided on Wolverine (from Xmen) for his Bday cake. I'm not sure how he even know who this is since he has never actually seen Xmen, although he does own one of the figurines. This was a surprise as I was sure he would choose his beloved Spiderman or his new found interest, Buzz Light Year. Originally the family was to come over Saturday the 8th but we had to reschedule to weather and ended up having everyone over on Saturday the 15th. As you can see, one of his favorite gifts was a Buzz Light year action pack.

He then had a small play date/Birthday party the following day with 3 of his classmates from the Montessori. It was primarily unstructured and I'm not sure if that was to our advantage or disadvantage. However, one of the more creative ideas I came up with was to make forts/tents, which was a definite hit! Since then, this theme has continued with the kids gathering all their blankets and extra sheets to assemble various tents in the basement, mainly around our pool table and sectional. There have been multiple requests and plans to have a slumber party in them. In order to subside some of these, we (Eli and myself) compromised on nap time in the tents. In addition to tents and our regular dance performances, the kids have been composing plays. Schuyler acts as the play writer, producer and a puppeteer when necessary and Eli and Mackie as the master puppeteers. While these activities pass the time on the more bitterly cold days, we still manage to get outside on the more "mild" days to enjoy nighttime sledding, snowball fights and the building of snowmen. Mackie, in usual fashion, takes charge in this category. This year, our beautiful snow-woman is named Kelly. According to Mackie, she would be more perfect if only she had some hair = )

One of the highlights that got lost in the hustle and bustle of Xmas and Bday celebrations was Mackie losing her first tooth the day after Xmas. It was barely hanging on but the minute I would try to pull, she would scream in utter terror. We went to visit Great Grandma and as she was showing it off, Papa asked to see it. The next thing I notice is she has a funny look on her face and Papa is holding the tooth. After the realization that the tooth was gone, she then noticed she was bleeding ever so slightly, which was followed by brief drama and applying a kleenex to the tooth.

Mark and I got to observe Mackie's dance class. It was interesting to watch 6 & 7 year olds practice leaps, the splits, and other twirls that have a proper name that is beyond my basic dance knowledge. This year, they will be performing to a Justin Bieber song. Mack was somewhat disappointed as she would prefer Lady Gaga!!

Schuyler is enjoying Basketball and continuing to develop her skills. In fact, in one of her games, she scored the buzzer beating shot to win the game = ) She loves her studies and although she would never admit it, she is quite the little writer. I find random stories on sheets of paper lying around the house. I need to get her a special journal as I think this would be right up her ally.

I typed this extremely fast without proofing so please do not judge my grammar or spelling = )

guess who's 4?!

2011-01-14T13:48:00.003-06:00

ELI!!

Last week our baby turned 4! Certainly a baby no more but forever the baby of our family. He is no longer a toddler yet it's so hard for me to let go. To celebrate, the 5 of us went to Applebee's for a family friendly meal and the use of our free kids meals = ) Well, at least 2 of them since Schuyler now tends to order from the regular menu. It was great to put Eli center stage in the spot light. The night was complete when the staff came out to sing and presented him with a chocolate brownie and ice cream.

Random information about Mr. 4 Year Old... One of his favorite books is "Are you my Mother?". He LOVES to play super heros. He is still an AWESOME napper and cuddler. He is generally a rule follower. Eli can be very sensitive. He excels at puzzles and has mastered his sound book at school. He is finally starting to show interest in writing his name = ) I can't wait to see what 4 brings!!

I LOVE that winter is finally here. Yes, I am one of those people who need and even enjoys snow and until it arrives, it never truly feels like winter. My philosophy is if it's going to be so cold there may as well be some pretty snow on the ground to brighten things up. Mark calls be the sledding Nazi. I was getting the kids in their gear with barely a dusting on the ground but it was so worth it.

Eli is all smiles when presented with his treat!

About ready to dig in.

Umm, this is pretty darn tasty. I wish my mom wasn't such a health nut!!

Let the sledding begin!

what we've been up to...

2011-01-02T18:19:00.002-06:00

During these past few weeks I have been fortunate to spend a great deal of time with my family. I was in a position where I would loose PTO so what better time then the busy holidays to use it. Well, maybe a lying on a beach with my husband but that wasn't in the cards. So, we made cookies, see exhibit A below. I always have grand plans of tackling a long list of goodies but there is limited time in a day so what I accomplish is usually much different. This year, that included White Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal, Molasses, and Sugar Cookies. I had willing subjects helping every step of the way, licking the batter every time I turned around.

Exhibit A -

Mackie completed her after school cheer club, which was conducted by her 1st grade teacher and Schuyler's teacher from 1st grade. Um, I can't believe I'm admitting this but I'm pretty sure I have a future cheerleader on my hands. After the first day, her teacher exclaimed what a natural she was. Sure enough, come performance time, she was a leader in the front row, knowing every step, pom-pom shake and kick with the very cheerleader expression on her face. See Exhibit B below, Mackie with her teacher. Or, as Mark and I often say, 2 peas in a pod.

Exhibit B - (Just for the record, I strongly dislike gym lighting)

I had the privilege of volunteering to make gingerbread houses with Mackie's first grade class. I was expecting sprinkles thrown around like confetti, kids stuffing their mouths with candy at every opportunity and frosting fingers smearing over everything. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how organized and calm the classroom was, a clear sign of the respect they have for their teacher. Mackie, in her true fashion, would not accept help from her anyone, least of all her mother. Every candy was inspected and found just the appropriate place on her house. A perfectionist she is and it was no surprise she was the last one done. See Exhibit C below.

Exhibit C-

This brings us to Christmas. Santa made his annual visit to Mark's work where we took the kids and Schuyler's BFF. Eli is big talk but when it comes to the moment to actually get close to the bearded man he quickly clings to me or Mark. I was hoping with the passing of another year he might have outgrew this tendency but clearly not. He sat on Santa's lap but only with Mark immediately next to him and there was no way he would remove his fingers from his mouth. Oh well. Can't blame him. All of our Christmas celebrations were prior to the 25th this year, which left only the 5 of us at home with no where to be. It was a first for us and extremely relaxing. We enjoyed being in our PJ's, playing toys and the only time we left the comforts of our home was to visit the red box for some movies. Here is our annual attempt at a family photo on Christmas. Not to shabby for our clan. Hey, past years have contained hitting, biting, hair pulling, glares and numerous other not so pleasant actions. See Exhibit D below.

Exhibit D-

The New Year is upon us and Mark and I stayed up until 10:00pm. We enjoyed our ritual of Chinese by candle light with the kids. I no longer am embarrassed to admit how lame we are, not even playing our annual poker. It is a sign that we are tired parents with active lives with children. At least that's the story I'm going with and it is that fact that I am extremely thankful for. Happy New Year's to ALL!

Hello forgotten blog

2010-12-22T19:08:00.003-06:00

Hello, little forgotten blog of mine. Tis' the busy season and I have simply not had a second to pay you any attention at all. But I'm hoping it's time to change that with a post. We'll see, at least it's a start.

Several weeks ago Miss Mack came racing out of school with sheer excitement on her face as she delightfully declared she had a loose tooth. I had my doubts as the kids' dentist, my friend, had said it would probably not be until spring. But, upon inspection, I agreed it was indeed loose. Her next question, "Will I loose it tomorrow". To which I replied, "No, honey. Maybe Christmas". Well, Christmas is days away and I'm not sure it will be gone before then. She has been impatiently waiting for this day as she watched all her friends loose their teeth. I'm so excited for her. She thought it would be very cool if the tooth fairy AND Santa came on the same day.

Miss Schuyler has transitioned into basketball season. I'm relieved of coaching duties as Basketball is Mark's responsibility and I will get to enjoy being a spectator, well at least for the parts where I'm not chasing our spiderman around. Schuyler had a fantastic soccer season scoring all but 3 of the goals. I would have to look back at the season but I think this equates to 15-20 goals. She is fanatical about all sports, including football. In fact, now that soccer has been banned until after the new year, the highlight of her day is when she is voted quarterback.

Eli, oh Eli. He is our comic and provides humor relief on a daily basis. Just the other day at the dinner table he proclaims, "Mom, Dad, my head is not screwed on right". Really! Where did that come from. It wasn't until the following day at lunch time when he announced it was screwed on correctly. It is not uncommon to find him parading around in dance costume or princess costume. Unfortunately, this is par for the course when you have 2 older sisters.

My kids truly amaze me and I'm glad that each has a unique personality, making them all the more special. I hope they are always comfortable to be the individuals they are!

Here was an almost Christmas Card photo =)

busy, busy, busy...

2010-10-05T11:19:00.002-05:00

I'm running one direction, Mark is running another direction and we get home, quickly eat, finish any last minute homework, showers and baths as necessary, sometimes we fit in a book and then it's tuck the kids to bed. However, our work is not done. There is still laundry to do, the table to clear, dishes, lunches to pack, clothes to set out.... You get the idea. It's a whirlwind!

Schuyler was star of the week last week. As one might guess, she brought anything and everything related to soccer in. Soccer pictures, soccer jersey, soccer book, etc... However, she also got banned from playing soccer at recess. Schuyler told me that one of the girls basically made up a story and Schuyler never got to tell the teacher her side. I was a little leary of this until her best friend came over one afternoon and basically confirmed Schuyler's story. I struggle with when to address the situation and when to leave it alone and chose to leave it alone. There is no doubt in my mind that my Schuyler is an extremely aggressive girl, perhaps maybe a little too much for recess soccer. During this "banned" time, Schuyler sat on the side and encouraged her friends. Her homeroom teacher asked Schuyler if she would like to join them, being unaware of the ban. I'm so proud of how Schuyler handled the situation. She informed Mrs. R that she did want to join but had been banned by another teacher. I know she could have chose to say or do something else. She showed character in her response and these are things that warm my heart. I also had the opportunity to join her class on a field trip to Morrill Hall. It was fun to see how much they have learned about Dinosaurs and fossils.

Mack continues to enjoy school and the social life surrounding it = ) She has made friends with a girl she calls Ellie Belly = ) Mack also enjoyed her first sleep over at a friend's house this past Friday. They went to a camp just outside of Lincoln and enjoyed roasting hot dogs and marshmallows, hayrack rides, bounce house, fishing and watching the movie UP projected onto the side of the barn. Such a cool time. She actually slept until 8:45 the next morning!! That is a record for that girl. Mack and I have been enjoying Little House on the Prairie books. Would you believe I never read these as a child. I think I might be more addicted then she is!!

Eli said good-bye to his toddler bed and has welcomed a big boy bed into his room. His sleeping habits have drastically improved as well and he is no longer waking in the middle of the night to find his mama!! He continues to provide comic relief to the family. He does not like PJs anymore but prefers only his pull-up to sleep in.

On a complete whim, I grabbed the kids one evening and went and snapped a few pictures. No change of clothes, no brushing the hair, no planning once so ever! This might be the best way to do it!!

getting my groove back on

2010-09-10T21:49:00.002-05:00

Maybe I can do this blogging thing after all! Ha, we'll see. I'd like to think I'm getting my groove back on but it's still early.

Our Eli man is getting bigger and I don't always realize it until I'm flipping through pictures. Sometimes I feel like we're shuffling the older 2 here and there that we don't get those special little moments with him. So, I'm taking a moment to record some thoughts, random sayings and anything else that pops into this overloaded brain of mine. E-Man does NOT like loud noises. He was still not a fan of fireworks, which meant that all 3 July 4th parties he could be found inside. This also includes thunderstorms. He will tell you he is "scaredy". The spider-man obsession continues. At night, he will ask, "Mom, when will I turn into Spiderman?" It does not matter that we constantly remind him that Spiderman is fictitious. He does not care. Eli does NOT like veggies and I struggle with creative ways to include them in his diet. Baby carrots is pretty much it unless you count potatoes of any kind. He might be a future baseball player. We pitch the ball to him and he hits it like no other 3 1/2 year old I've seen. He recently has taken a liking to baby dolls, but probably not like you would think. For example, he has wrapped their legs in a bind with his sister's necklace and then hung the baby from the bunkbed so Spiderman could rescue her! He showers at any given opportunity. Baths no, showers YES!

I guess I should at least mention his siblings = ) The girls are both enjoying school. Mackie is extraordinarily enthusiastic about school. So much so that she was disappointed we had a 3 day weekend and one night even cried at the dinner table. Silly girl. Schuyler received an extra effort award last week, which apparently is a big deal as one of her friend's saw it on the refrigerator and made a comment. She has also received the highest score in spelling 2, (maybe 3) weeks in a row. However, she is very modest about her accomplishments. She is willing to share with Mark and I but becomes embarrassed when we ask her to share with grandparents.

Mackie had a doctor appointment this week as there were some skin issues that were concerning me. She has 2 spots on her face where there were tiny blood vessels. One formed early this year and the other just recently. The diagnosis was Spider Angioma. In the case of children, they are asymptomatic and usually resolve on their own, although it may take several years. This is the route we are taking. If they continue to spread or get worse or do not disappear after several years, we may consider removing them. If she gets a third we will need to revisit to make sure there is no underlying issue. The other concern was an area on her leg that did not tan as the surrounding skin. The diagnosis for this was Tinea Versicolor, which is a fungal infection of the skin. So, we will try some prescription antifungal cream.

I'm pretty sure this post will take the award for most randomness!! So, back to normalcy, here is our growing boy...

where to begin...

2010-08-29T21:58:00.003-05:00

I've been wondering how in the world I could ever get caught up on blogging after basically taking the WHOLE summer off. I've started many a time and then get overwhelmed and quit. I figure the best approach from this point is not to dwell on the past but make an effort starting with the recent, which is the FIRST day of school.

Yep, the kids went back to school on Wed the 18th. Prior to this we got to find there classrooms and meet their teachers at open house. Mack has a teacher that is new to the school. I had fears as I saw that the name began with Miss and instantly started thinking she must be young, does she have any experience, etc... That was when my better half calmly reminds me that LPS is extremely competitive and they actually have to turn good teachers away. And, we are fortunate to be in a good school district. We ran into Schuyler's old teacher at the store and he said all the teachers were raving about her. I was pleased when she called us on the 2nd day of school to assure us (or more me) that Mack was adjusting fine socially and academically to public school. The fact that she was proactive says a lot. If you ask Mack her opinion of her teacher she will say "I have the most beautiful teacher of all the 1st grade teachers. She doesn't make us read, write or do math". Well, that was the after the first few days and I'm happy to say they do actually do work = )

Schuyler also has a fantastic teacher. She brought home spelling words already on the 1st week and I was astonished at how hard some of them were. For example, her list had some of the following words: discrepancy, dramatization, rafters, scrutinize, plankton, etc... Holy smokes!!

Eli is happy to be back at the Montessori and even more excited to see his friend Dalton. I thought without his older sister he might be lost. Not so. Daddy gets a few extra hugs and kisses in the morning but that's the only real change.

Besides school, soccer season has kicked off. I continue to assistant coach both of the girls' teams. Schuyler's team has already had several practices and games and Mack's season will officially start Monday.

I'm hoping that this post will get me back in the practice of blogging but I also know that as the kids continue to get older, I continue to get even busier. So, I'm not going to beat myself up if I don't post every week and will do the best I can = )

she's 6!!

2010-06-28T14:30:00.003-05:00

Oh my, where does the time go? It seems much has happened in the last 2 weeks. Bare with me and my long windedness!

Mack celebrated her 6th trip around the sun or what most people refer to as her Birthday. The original plan was for a very girly tea party on Saturday after her game but another classmate was having her bday party on the same date and time. So, the tea party idea will remain on hold for next year and Mack instead opted for a slumber party with 3 of her closest friends. Her guests arrived at 5:30 and we began with pizza and breadsticks. Next was dessert and presents. I got the most delectable cupcakes from The Cup, champagne flavor, pink on the inside with white frosting, a tiny little flower on top and 100% organic. Unfortunately, I don't think my clan of kids truly appreciated the fineness as the frosting had disappeared but there was much cupcake remnants left on the plate. Oh well. After the present opening, it was time to do finger nails and toe nails. I was so glad to have the assistance of my niece and her friend who were in town to visit the University. I'm afraid my two hands were simply not enough for all the ~~demands~~ requests of the girls. One of the girls had to leave for a t-ball game leaving with us with only 2 extras for the night. So, we headed outside to play and secretly hoped to wear them out so they would sleep. Things got a little hectic at this point with one of the girls on Eli's motorized tractor not aware how to steer and nearly running into Mark's truck, Eli falling off his bicycle, Schuyler needing assistance to get her sweaty knee pads off, etc... So, we decided to head in and quiet down with a movie. Just as everyone was settled, Mark calls me from upstairs with that voice and I know. My heart is racing and I sprint up the stairs. There in my husbands loving arms is our little boy, his big blue eyes welled up with tears and the saddest little face I've ever seen. In the madness, I had assumed Eli went in the backyard with Mark to mow and Mark had assumed he went inside with me. In actuality Eli headed up to the next block on the bike path adjacent to our home. He was smart enough to know he couldn't come back down as he hasn't mastered using the breaks on his bike (a story for another time). So, he stood next to his bike looking sad and luckily one of the neighbors brought him down to us. It made me feel horrible. In fact, just rehashing it makes me feel it all over again.

Back to the party, everyone watched High School Musical 3 and then we attempted bed time. Originally, we had Eli and Schuyler on the pull out bed and Mack and her 2 buds on the blow-up mattress. Eli was having a hard time so he came upstairs. Multiple reminders were given to the girls to be quiet and rest. Then, big bad mom went downstairs to monitor. After no luck, I took Mack back to the bathroom to have a chat. We returned and then dad came to lay down the law. He said if they were unable to go to sleep we would have to call their parents and let them know. That did the trick.

Saturday, we celebrated grill out style with hamburgers and hot-dogs and family = )

Moving on, last week Schuyler attended the UNL soccer camp. It was an all day event from 8:30 - 3:30 Monday thru Thurs. You would think after a day of soccer she would come home exhausted and tired. Not so much. She was in the house long enough to tell our nanny hi and good-bye and was outside again for more soccer!

We are continuing to enjoy our nanny whom I truly believe is Mary Poppins in disguise. She cooks, cleans, and takes wonderful care of our kids. I can't believe how fortunate we are to have found her.

One more random thing. I went to get Eli's summer hair cut and was going to go shorter, not so shaggy, with a little razoring on his neck and by his ears but keeping the length and curls on top. Well, apparently the hair dresser and I were on completely different planets b/c now Mr. E has a very short hair cut. The curls are gone and it's the shortest it's been since he was 9 months old. But, ihe loves it and that's what is most important. I would love to share pics but I'm so behind on blogging I'm not even going to tell you how behind I am on pictures!!

Basking in the morning sunlight beaming in through our window.

We love you Mack!

it finally feels like summer

2010-06-11T12:59:00.001-05:00

With the kids out of school, it now truly feels like summer. Last Friday, I spent the day with Schuyler while the other 2 enjoyed their last day at the Montessori with their friends. Schuyler wasn't up for a run but instead chose to roller blade ~~along side~~ ahead of me. We went 3.4 miles or so. She is so good on the trails, slowing down to look back periodically and knows all the places to wait while I catch up or stop and look for cars. She was in full gear, elbow pads, wrist pads, knee pads and helmet with her MP3 player in tow. She is good little rollerblader but we were not without incident. As we were close to the end of our jaunt, I see her stumble on the skates and fall forward, MP3 player flying. I go sprinting to her and see her crying. She looks up and says, "My MP3 player, where is it? Is it broken". I assure her that it's fine and I'm much more concerned about her. She continues, "If it's broke, I want to save my money for another one". I reply, "Honey, if it's broke, Mom and Dad will by you a new one." Isn't funny how kids think sometimes. She did have a minor injury. Of all places on her hip, a big strawberry and a bruise that was initially small but has now morphed into a large, colorful bruise.

The girls have easily adjusted to the new routine of being at home but Eli is a bit slower. He doesn't understand the days of the week, Monday, Tuesday, Wed.... so he has always differentiated by "school day" and "stay at home day". Now everyday is a "stay at home day". His new terms are now a "Sam (our nanny) day" or "a mom and dad day". Seems to be working for now. We are all enjoying our nanny. She has started the kids reading program by a trip to the public library, gone to the zoo followed by a picnic at Sunken Gardens, gone swimming and a bike ride to the elementary school. I need to incorporate a little more arts and crafts but this is exactly what I wanted for the kids = )

Eli is in a "testing" phase. He uses the words stupid and poopy which we do not allow. Let me rephrase, poopy is reserved as a bathroom word and stupid is not allowed at all. He also thinks it's hysterical to spit. So, we are dealing with these not so pleasant behaviors. And the beat goes on..... and the beat goes on....

The past 2 nights Schuyler, who has ALWAYS been our excellent sleeper, has been extremely scared and had difficulties falling asleep. Well, last night we found out why and it has to do with a TV show she watched. Schuyler is very good at choosing "age appropriate" shows. She stays away from violence, profanity, etc... and in general knows the channels we consider acceptable. So, I guess you could say we have a joint monitoring system. Anyway, she found a show about incredible survival stories on National Geographic, Discover Channel, History or something of this nature. I sat down with her to watch the top 3 and kind of wondered in my head if this was something she could handle. They truly are amazing stories of human triumph and perseverance. For example, Beck Weathers who was left for dead on Mt. Everest, the 1972 Uruguayan Air Force plane that crashed in the Andes that was carrying a rugby team and family, Steven Callahan who was lost at sea for 2.5 months, or Aron Ralston who was trapped in a canyon and had to amputate his own arm. Point being, while I think this show was educational I think it has her scenario spinning in her head, something I'm sure she gets from her mother. In fact, she had DVR'ed the show but now asked that it be deleted, which I will happily do so she can sleep peacefully.

And for more off the wall information, I have an inflamed eye. I had been waking up with my eyes matted shut and very blood shot. A shower and allergy eye drops seemed to relieve most of the symptoms but the corner of my right eyes continued to be irritated and itchy. I then noticed a small, clear like pimple on my eye. Apparently, scar tissue under my eye, from a high school basketball injury, is inflamed. We're trying OTC drops but may need to resort to steroid drops if it does not go away. Oh the joys = )

There you have it, folks, our weekly ramblings.

a kindergartner no more

2010-06-03T13:35:00.002-05:00

Miss Mack graduated from Kindergarten last Friday with her other 2 classmates. Yes, a giant class of 3. I have to admit that I am a bit old fashioned and still believe that small numbers are best. However, there were many reasons behind our decision to send Mack to the Montessori for kindergarten and we had to weigh the pros and cons. In the end it was the right decision for her. Mack, we are so proud of you and all that you have accomplished in your 1st year of school. I'm astounded by so many things... your reading ability, word recognition, spelling, math facts, leadership, awareness of community and so much more. Mr. Tim actually introduced you to multiplication and division! It was wonderful to watch you have your moment on the stage, with a look of pride shining on your face. I have so many hopes and wishes for you.

I hope that your enthusiasm for school continues for many years to come.
I wish you continued success in the classroom.
I hope you hold close and nurture the friendships you have made and look forward to ones you will make.
I hope that you'll have many more talented teachers just like Mr. Tim.
I love your confidence and hope it will follow you to elementary school.

Mack was so excited to walk off the stage with her diploma in hand and her graduate t-shirt in her bag that she almost forgot give Ms. Ann a hug!

All the kids preformed songs. There were 2, one designed for the primary children and a second for the toddler children. Ms Mack delightfully participated in both. However, Eman was not the least bit interested, choosing to instead stand up and down, up and down, lie on his stomach with his head on his chin and just smile with his mischievous grin. Each child is so unique and I can see we'll have a whole new set of challenges and opportunities with him = )

Our plans for memorial day seemed to be in a constant state of flux. Mark ended up wording Saturday a.m. so the kids and I ran errands, went to the park, and got Schuyler's hair cut. After their naps, we thought we make good use of the family pool passes so the kids and I went swimming and left Dad at home to do yard work. Sunday, we left bright and early to head for Hastings since both sides of Mark's family were in town. We had a great time. Eli became good friends with his 2nd cousin Grady and we enjoyed visiting family out at Mark's aunt and uncle's farm. There was lots of 4-wheeler fun to be had by all. Eli, who last year was very timid, was quite the opposite this year, with his white hair flying in the wind, a perma-smile on his face and shouting "Wooooo hooooo" every time they raced past the front porch. Completely unplanned and unprepared, the kids spent the night with Gma and Gpa in Hastings, borrowing some of cousin Justin's old t-shirts that were going to be donated to Good Will as PJs. This allowed me the rare opportunity to get some projects done as I usually have little helpers or I'm up at midnight!

The school year comes to an end today for Miss Schuyler. I'm excited to pick her up. They had a hard day of watching Peter Pan = ) It is also play date week. Schuyler had her good friend over yesterday since she'll be spending most of the summer with her mother down in KS. Mack's play date is tonight since tomorrow will be her last day at the Montessori. Eli will return in the fall but he is wanting a play date as well but that will have to wait for some other week.

I'm trying not to freak out as I prepare the house for a nanny (and myself). This is forcing me to become organized, something I have always struggled with. So, here's to the beginning of summer.

The "active" participant in the performance.

Proceed with caution. There are uneditted pictures below. (GASP!). Mack receiving her diploma.

The hug she almost forgot.

dance and more

2010-05-25T13:17:00.002-05:00

Still trying to catch my blog up with real life. The weekend of May 15th and 16th was a busy one. For Mack, it marked 9 months or so worth of dance classes that she religiously attended. The big finale, the recital! Friday, was dress rehearsal, which was a huge success, and she even flattered me with a few pictures. Saturday was the recital but also Schuyler's last soccer game. This was a hard one for our family. Originally, I thought we could attend both but I had wrote down the act time incorrectly. Mack's performance was in the 2nd act, 3-4pm so she would perform approx at 3:30, which was when Schuyler's game started. I knew Mack would be heart broken if her mommy wasn't waiting for her backstage with flowers at the end of her act so this meant I wouldn't be able to attend and help coach Schuyler's game. Coincidentally, our head coach also had a daughter preforming in the same act so he wouldn't be able to attend either. This upset Schuyler so we decided Mark would leave right after Mack's performance. Problem solved. Unfortunately, when the kids out number the parents, there will be times when someone is going solo. As for the performance, I noticed Mack was a step off and was glancing at her teacher quite a bit, which is completely unlike her. She was spot on in the rehearsal. Well, when we got backstage, the room mother, who is Mark's co-worker, came up and said Mack had cut herself pretty bad just before they were to go on and almost didn't make it on the stage. They had to quickly scrounge up band-aids. Yes, plural. She bled through the first one and used a second one on top. We're still not sure what happened, she never fell and they can only guess that there was something sharp on the banister. The room mom said Mack cried a lot and she was going to tell Daddy how proud she was of her. I'm just so thankful that she made it on stage, she would have been so devastated and I would have been sad for her. It was a little while later when she asked, "Mom, could you hear my crying?" = )

Mack had been wanting her hair cut but we kept it long for the performance. So, Sunday we went and cut 3 inches off. It looks so much better! This would also be when Eli picked up a bottle of nail polish and dropped it on the floor, shattering in pieces in a heap or orange mess. Oops!

The girls had a dentist appt this week. Miss Mack will have to continue to wait for a loose tooth. Every other day, and in some instances every day, she says she has a loose tooth or is asking me to check and see. She is watching her friends loose teeth and so badly wants one of her own. Schuye was early to loose teeth and it looks like Mack will be on the opposite end of the spectrum. The dentist said maybe in a year or when she is 7 = ( She also has the very early beginnings of a cavity, due to how tight her teeth are. Nothing to worry about but we'll need to make sure she flosses. Schuyler has fantastic teeth but there are some concerns about tongue thrust and her tonsils. We worked with her school speech pathologist to correct the speech issues associated with tongue thrust. However, when she swallows, she continues to push her tongue forward instead of towards the roof of the mouth. Over time, this can cause dental problems. I'm not sure if we're going to address the issue now or continue to see how her mouth grows. Her tonsils continue to be enlarged and we were hoping her allergy medicine would have alleviated this. She also suffers from bad breath, which can be due to the tonsils. I've spoke with our pediatrician and were going to monitor this over the next few weeks. Sheesh, this raising kids thing is hard down to the very details.

Okay, I know I was going to elaborate on the Appletini. See, while Mark was golfing, I took the liberty of painting Eli's room. Well, the appletini was too yellow for him so we have spent many a day trying to figure out what the right color of green is. I really think green is one of the toughest colors to pick. There is yellow green, grey green, blue green, earth green, etc... Finding just the right hue has been time consuming to say the least. But, it was time for the nursery to go. No bear border and no more grey walls. I have pics so hopefully you'll see the before, the interim where we tested color after color, and the final. Well, the final isn't final yet b/c it's not done.

The day came. What day you wonder. The day where Schuyler asked her dad if he could just give her a kiss in the car before dropping her off at school. We've talked her out of it and are holding on a little longer = ) We know the days are numbered.

Decorations from the party, see previous post.

The uber lengthy bday recap

2010-05-14T10:39:00.002-05:00

This post will be devoted entirely to Schuyler's bday and bday party and it's going to be a lengthy one!

Her birthday fell on Tuesday night, which is Mack's dance night and always a bit hectic. Schuyler wanted a picnic on the back porch so that's what the kiddos did. We had cheese steak philly's, with green beans and some kind of fruit. She was able to quickly open presents before we shuffled Mack off, MP3 player, ruffled buttercream tank top and for the finale, Mark and I signed her up for the Husker Soccer Camp. It's 4 solid days of camp down at the university with the head women's soccer coach, the assistants, and players. She is stoked! It also requires sign-off from the Dr. to attend. Had it not been for this, I would have never realized I missed her 7 year well child check-up! Sheesh. LPS was closed on Friday and by pure luck, I was able to get an appt from a cancellation. Yeah! Schuyler remains at the 90th percentile for height and 80th percentile for weight. Had I been more attentive, I would have made her wash up her dirty knees and elbows. Oh well, I was more embarrassed when the resident Dr. asked what she had for breakfast and she said nothing. Seriously. Dad forget to give her something and Grandma must not have known. In Dad's defense, Schuyler is self-sufficient and usually makes her breakfast, cereal or oatmeal, as well as her siblings.

That afternoon we were able to finish cleaning and make decorations. Here theme was Rock Star and guess what we found... a karaoke machine!! More on that in a minute. For decorations we did pink and gold balloons. We made a glitter disco ball, which was hung in the middle of the stage, once our living room, 3 tissue balls, 2 pink and 1 silver. For thank you's we compiled some of Schuye's favorite songs onto CDs as well as some rock star sunglasses. Food consisted of Pizza Hut pizza and cheese sticks and some fruit kabobs we made along with lemonade to drink. Let's not forget the cake... a microphone. I used Martha Stewart's yellow cake recipe and my usual frosting. It was not my best piece of art but the kids loved it and I would highly recommend the recipe!!

The party itself went well. It took the kids time to warm up the karoake machine and some never did but that was okay b/c we also had soccer going in the backyard = ) The karoake machine had 2 microphones, hooked up to the TV so you could see the words nice and big and 2 speakers. The most popular songs were Girls Just Want to Have Fun and All Star (from Shrek). We also had colored hair spray going on... yellow, orange, black, silver and glitter. This year, Schuyler asked that in lieu of gifts her friends consider a donation to the new penguin exhibit at the Lincoln Zoo =)

All the family was able to attend her soccer game on Saturday and it was like having her own cheering section. Afterwards we grilled at our house and had ice cream cake.

I interviewed her the other night. I do this periodically and record it and then compare to previous years. It's fun.

Favorite Color: Yellow. I also like red, blue and white. (Her favorite color has never changed since her first interview at 2 1/2!!)
Favorite Food: pizza. (It used to be strawberries)
Favorite Sport: Soccer (that one is a no-brainer)
Favorite Book: Mia Hamm. (then I asked her series) Magic Treehouse series
Favorite Song: Boom Boom Pow (the Black Eyed Peas)
Favorite Team: Nebraska and Kansas (where did Kansas come from?)
Favorite Movie: Kick like a girl (don't ask)
Favorite Animal: Dog (used to be penguin)
What do you want to be when you grow up? - Soccer Coach or Soccer player (used to be teacher)

This next one is new and her response was hilarious

Where do you most want to go for vacation?: South Carolina (South Caroling? I ask) Oh wait, I mean North Carolina (me - what's in N. Carolina?) The Tarheels, where Mia Hamm lives. (me - oh honey, she just went to college there, I don't think she lives there any more) Well, I want to go where ever she lives now so I can meet her.

Schuyler, we are so proud to be your parents and we're in total shock that your 8! You're the first born, our leader, smart, sensitive, kind hearted, loving, giving, caring, talented and absolutely precious. You are, and will always be our little miss sunshine.

Just one more thing. Mrs Gourdie came over to me as I was waiting for the bell to ring to announce the end of your school day. She said, "I want you to know something that your daughter did. Today, during P.E. she helped the girls, showed them how to do things and was patient in teaching them. It meant everything to those girls. She could have been doing a number of other things or hanging out with her friends. I'm so proud of her and I told her that. I just wanted to pass it on to you". See, Mrs. Gourdie works with 2 girls in Schuyler's class who have Downs Syndrome, referred to as the girls above. I can't tell you how much this warms my heart.

Next week, who likes Appletini? I do, but it might not be in the way one would guess = )

Enjoying her new MP3 player.

before I forget..

2010-05-10T09:39:00.002-05:00

I have come to realize that my kids can be extremely thoughtful when they want to be and I need to recount a few things from Mother's Day before I forget!

My girls created a Mother's Day song and even choreographed a dance to it! They sent me on a scavenger hunt in the basement to find the many cards they had created. There were handprints, cute little sayings and one where they each created lists of the things they were thankful for. They do see the little things I do, like make lunches for them every night before I go to bed and do the laundry, etc...

Schuyler went to the extra trouble of having members of her soccer team sign a poster for me at school. I wondered what she and her little friend were doing after school when I picked her up on Friday. They were huddled around a paper and I even asked if it was a Mother's Day present and they both quickly answered, one with a yes the other with a no. I knew they were up to something but wasn't going to press the issue!

And my husband, we'll, he's pretty thoughtful, too! I told him NOT to buy anything as my running shoes were a gift to myself. So, in my card I found coupons. Or, some might call them gift cards...

Husband makes the kids lunches (good for up to 5 punches)
Husband knocks off one of the honey do's.
Husband watches kids so mother get girls night out.
Husband cleans whole house.

You get the idea. Pretty awesome.

I still need to recount the bday and post pics. Honestly, I don't have a lot of pics. See, with 9 kids plus our 3 and only 2 adults, we had our hands full. I'm also learning a few things about myself. As much as I want to capture and record memories I would rather have my daughter remember me as participating in the activities and not constantly lurking with the camera. So, when I was summoned to play soccer in the backyard or come sing a little karaoke, that's what I did.

Speaking of soccer, Schuyler survived her back to back, double header this week. She's on a scoring streak. She scored the teams only goals this weekend (4 in total). Last week the score was 8 to something and she had 6 of the goals! Mack was a bit out of it at last weeks game but had a good showing this week and scored a goal herself.

Back to my to-do list!

Bday preparations and running

2010-04-26T11:43:00.002-05:00

Party preparations are underway for Miss S, who will be 8!! We came up with several ideas and she decided on a Rock 'N' Roll theme. She personally picked out the paper and stickers so we could do homemade bday invites. They turned out very cute as well as being a great activity for the kids and an opportunity for my scrapbook tools to come out of storage! Note to self, next time make sure I have 2 tape dispensers or what ever they are called. One simply did not cut it for our assembly line of 3 kids. She is inviting 9 kids. She wanted 10 while Mark and I preferred 8, our general rule is 1 child per year old, so we compromised on 9. It was very hard for her to make the list but finally cut it down to 7 girls and 2 boys. Mark and I were encouraging her for a girls party, simply for the purpose of planning activities, but I loved her logic in picking friends that were close to her, regardless of sex. This is just another example of her personality and I LOVE it. In her words, if 2 of my good friends are boys, why shouldn't they be included?!

Running has become infectious in our house and it has spread to Schuyler and Mack. It amazes me how the mother's emotions/actions/etc... permeates the whole house! In this instance, it's a good thing. I'm still hovering around 2-3 miles 3 to 4 times/week. My first race will be June 5th where I will run the 5K. Maybe 10K if I can get to where I need to be. Schuyler runs a good distance, probably 1 1/2 to 2 miles. It's a slow jog pace for me and we usually walk a small portion in the middle. Mack just started and I need to work with her. She doesn't understand the concept of "pace" so she sets out in sprint mode and we don't get very far. However, she appears to have a more natural ability for running and I think with a little help, she could be quite the runner, that is if she wants to be. I also splurged on a new pair of shoes. The good people at The Lincoln Running Company set me up with a pair of Saucony's, something new and different as I've been a die-hard Asics fan for quite a number of years. They watch you walk barefoot and based on that, choose 3 or so pairs to try on. So far, I'm very pleased!

To celebrate earth day, or in our case it was more like earth week, we did a number of bike rides. Instead of driving to get the younger kids from school, Schuyler and I biked. I'm sure we looked like quite the site as I strapped Mack's bike into the bike trailer and off we went to get them. It's so nice to have Mack on her own set of wheels leaving me with only 1 kiddo to haul around! We also have been enjoying the trails. It was just late summer last year or early fall when Mack kicked the training wheels so this has been her first experience away from the comforts of our block. She is a bit of a gawker and often veers onto the other lane of the trail. She also does not seem to like anyone within 5 feet of her. It scares me to think ahead to the days when we'll have to teach her to drive!! Eli is our greeting committee. He politely tells everyone hello and comments on dogs he likes, even though they are most likely past by the time he gets the comment out.

Later this week or next week I hope to post bday pics.

since my last blog...

2010-04-13T08:54:00.002-05:00

was forever ago, it seems I have a lot of catching up to do. As some of you may know, Mark was out of town for the last week of March. The day before he was to leave, Sunday, Schuyler comes down with the stomach flu, just as Mark and I are going to bed. It looks like another night down in the basement. It's a rough night for her and my stomach has a not so pleasant feeling in it. I keep forcing positive thoughts through my head convinced they will make what I know is inevitable stop. However, in the morning it's very obvious it's my turn at the porcelain. I'm so thankful to have such awesome family. My dad was kind enough to take the other 2 to school for me. And, that night, he picked them up for me, made dinner for them, and got them bathed and in bed so I could rest and try to function again. Now, Tuesday is here and I've been looking forward to my annual photography seminar. My MIL comes to town and watches the kids for me, getting them fed, to dance and to bed. My last bit of help came Friday from my mom. Since I had unexpectedly missed a day of work due to sickness, I was behind on a very large project at work. She was able to watch the kids Friday so I could work. My family means everything to me and I strongly agree with the quote, "It takes a village to raise a child". I'm blessed to have a village full of wonderful people.

So, Easter comes, which means it's time for Easter egg dying. If allowed, I know the girls would easily die 4 to 5 dozen eggs. No joke! The kids awoke to a backyard FULL of Easter eggs. That bunny, he is pretty sneaky! Oh, and poor Eli got sick the night before Easter. Luckily, it was only a one time incident due to who knows what!

The best part of spring is soccer. I love the fact that I have a daughter who is so into soccer, maybe even two daughters. I remember the long days of winter when Schuyler could be found in the backyard with her snow pants, boots and a foot of snow trying to play soccer. I think she eats and breathes it. Everyday at recess she can be found on the soccer field, often where she is the lone girl. I know she gets made fun of sometimes for it, she's told me. The thing with her is she's strong. She's always marched to the beat of her own drum and I hope this NEVER changes. We've talked how some people might be jealous, especially the boys. She knows if she loves something so much and it's in her dreams to pursue it. These obstacles are not road blocks but opportunities to overcome and became even better. Pretty big stuff for an almost 8 year old. As for her games, she won the first one 8-0, scoring 3 goals, and won the second game 6-2 with 2 goals. We've had several people come up to us and comment on her skills, etc...

Mack's team has 11 kids on it. Which, in my opinion is WAY too many, especially for micro soccer where there is only 4 on the field. So, I'm problem solving on what to do with this. In the limited she did play she managed to score a goal. Though, at times, it seems she was more interested in how she looked when she was playing.

Inspired by his sisters, I think Eman is ready to join the soccer fun. He has been trying on Schuyler's soccer socks and shoes and was down right made when we wouldn't let him where the shoes to Mack's game, forget the fact they are 7-8 sizes too big and have pink on them. He really is a character. The other day he was parading around the house stark naked with the socks pulled up to his thighs and his sisters shoes clonking on the floor. And, what is it with boys thinking they can drop drawers outside? Last night, I was pruning the rose bush and I turn around to find my son peeing off the ledge of my neighbor's driveway. I quickly go stand in front of him in hopes that it will block the view of the neighbors across the street. I'm so bad, as I'm scolding him telling him he needs to go inside I was laughing hysterically in my head.

Mark's golf season started last Friday with the Master's. It's just a matter of time before I'm a golf widow for the summer!

As for me, I'm training. I have decided I want to run a 10K sometime this year. Reasons why: It's on my bucket list, we are done having a family, the kids are getting a little more responsible and easy, and I'm not getting any younger. So, I'm up to 2 miles but have a long way to go. On a funny note, Schuyler recently got new athletic shoes and she chose Asics, like her mommy. Well, she is up to a size 5, which is not far from my size 7 1/2 or 8. I leave the house when the kids are in bed and keep everything dark so I don't disturb anyone. Anyway, I mistakenly grabbed her shoes = )

Wow, now that I'm done writing my chapter, here are a few pics...

out with the old, in with the new

2010-03-26T12:52:00.002-05:00

That's kind of what I feel like... the weather, the house stuff, etc... And, maybe it's not so much "in with the new" but more to do with "out with the old".

Last week we replaced all the carpet on the main floor of our house and the stairway downstairs. The combination of boot camp, moving extremely heavy furniture, and ripping out nasty carpet did me in. I was way tired and sore. However, there were several positives. First, the new carpet is marvelous and makes such a huge difference. I love it (and the smell)! Secondly, the girls went to see their cousins in Missouri and my dad took the 'lil man for the night which gave Mark and I a rare opportunity to go out. Yeah!

Being the 3rd child, E-man is accustom to being around his old sisters. There were moments where he felt lost without them saying things like, "It's taking a long time for them to come home". The other moment was when he had to walk into the Montessori without Mack. It's so weird to think of him being there by himself next year. I know he's ready to make his own path and will embrace new leadership roles but he's still my baby and it's just hard to think about for this emotional mama. He was a bit spoiled by all of us. Papa bought him a new Spiderman puzzle and lunchbox while Mark and I got him a spiderman t-shirt. If that wasn't enough spiderman, the girls brought him a Spiderman toothbrush!

It's been good having our gang back together this week. Schuyler has been on spring break and has been spending time with various people. Prior to the break we had conferences. Her teacher had wonderful things to say about her and we left with our hearts full and feeling grateful to have such a good daughter.

I think we've finally wrapped up summer plans for the kids = ) This will be a huge relief off my plate! We will have a nanny!! Schuyler and I have both met her and the true test will be when she meets the rest of the family this weekend. I'm giddy with the thought of having all 3 of our kids in one place and that place being home!! I'm planning swimming, library trips, visits to the park, etc.. I better not say anything more for fear of jinxing anything!

On a not so pleasant note, the stomach flu attacked E-man Wednesday night. I felt so terrible for him. Bless his heart he didn't get a drop on the new carpet. We went downstairs to sleep on the pull out bed and not so new carpet. It was a rough night followed by a rough Thursay but he appears to be on the mend. I STRONGLY hope it keeps away from the rest of us!! Mark and I were remembering almost a year ago when we had to take Schuyler to ER b/c she was dehydrated. Ugh!

Well, I certainly can't end with that so how about a pic?

pretending it's spring...

2010-03-12T14:19:00.002-06:00

Spring is teasing us. It visits for a few days and has now retreated back into hiding. It would REALLY be nice to see the sun. I mean, c'mon, a little vitamin D does the body good. None the less, this weekend, we are heading up to Omaha with some friends and their kiddos and we're going to pretend it's spring at Coco Keys indoor water park.

Wednesday was skate night for Schuyler's elementary school. So, we left the boys at home and us girls went and picked up one of Schuyler's friends and headed for a little skating fun. Can I say it's been a LONG time since I've been on a pair of rollerskates! I was a little rusty at first but it came back pretty quickly. Schuyler, who is wondrous on her rollerblades, brought her friend who had never skated before. This was Mack's 2nd time so needless to say, I had my hands full with the 2 girls. Mack found one of her Montessori buds so that made her day. Schuyler's friend, Miss B, took quite a few falls and had a few tears but kept getting back up. It was a fun time.

Last night we had a naked sous chef in the house. Mack and Eli were helping me peel carrots to make pineapple carrot cake. Can you guess which one was stark naked peeling the carrot at the garbage can? I'm pretty sure that would be a health hazard anywhere else.

Here's our brief glimpse when Spring was here...

Notice anything? That glow would actually be the sun.

it's melting...

2010-03-05T08:52:00.002-06:00

Finally! Good-bye snow and ice. We've enjoyed your time with us making snowmen (or snow-women) and snow angels and the joys of sledding you have provided. But, your beauty is fading as your once white appearance is now gone. We bid you ado until next year = )

The kids have been enjoying getting outside. The bikes, scooters, and rollerblades are coming out of hibernation. Mack came home yesterday with her boots in one bag and snowpants in another. No longer pink but a nice brown/black color. I'm pretty sure she must have jumped in every single puddle she could find. I washed them not once, but twice!! I'm also getting the spring cleaning and decluttering bug, which is a good thing if we ever hope to get our house on the market. Yesterday, I detail cleaned all the bedroom windows... screens, blinds, glass, etc...

Schuyler has been busy delivering girl scout cookies. If you have not received yours, they will be coming. I was so proud of her. She wrote each person a thank you and it was all her idea. I believe it was 26 in total. How sweet and thoughtful she can be = )

This weekend we have a whole lot of nothing planned! No activities, birthday parties, etc... Hmmm, what will we do with our time? I'm thinking it's about time for the xmas lights to come down!!!

Here's some pics...

Defense! Arms out or up, wide stance and eye on the ball. S in warm up guarding her good friend and teammate.

Offense! Square your body and take that shot!

M pretending to be a bride. I'm sorry sweetie, but I'm pretty sure dad said no dating until your 30!

before he became spidy...

2010-02-26T09:08:00.002-06:00

he would play with these...

They would make appearances in all of the rooms in our house... they would come to the bathroom with him, join us for dinner and even get the opportunity to sleep with him. Now Mr. E can be found with a hat pulled over his face pretending to be Spidy, using his fingers with his special noise effect to cast webs. He's even pretended to save one of the girls' dolls. When I picked him up from school yesterday he said, "I'm not Eli, call me Spidy", and the hat went over his face. So, Spidy and I walked out together hand in hand, with him opening the doors for Mack and I. At least he's a gentleman. Okay, maybe he really just enjoys showing us he's big and strong. Either way, I like it = )

Mackie has become a bride. She prances around the house in Schuyler's old white, flower girl dress with the matching white leather shoes and wears a pink-tie tutu that she has concocted to be a veil. She has tried to marry her brother and used to be successful but now Eli has informed her, in his old man voice that we love, that he is too young to get married. Smart boy. My daughter, on the other hand, worries me. She kissed one of her classmates as we were exiting school. We had a little chat when we got home as this is something I certainly don't want to repeat. On a separate note, Miss M had a complete blast with her 2 classmates on her Kindergarten field trip. He dressed up in her bright pink dress, with light pink tights, tall brown boots, and her beautiful hat that my mother made which bore both shades of pink. She even took a little purse for her kleenex. There is no denying she is getting older.

Schuyler is an Olympicaholic. Hockey, skiing, iceskating, sledding and even curling. I don't understand a thing about that event but found myself sucked in trying to figure it out. It is one of the s-l-o-w-e-s-t events! Back to Olympics. One of the positive side benefits is it has sparked an interest of flags. She has been one of those kids who are good at, and take an interest in maps. Well, now she can make another connection with identifying the flag. She has come to me with multiple questions, which I did not know but google always seems to answer! On a not so positive note, she is a remote expert, being able to rewind, record, fast forward, etc...

TGIF!

our little celebrity...

2010-02-19T13:09:00.002-06:00

We have a celebrity in our home. Okay, not really but Schuyler was on Channel 8 news last Friday with the rest of her 2nd grade class. It featured the use of "Domesti-pups" in the classroom. Traditionally, these dogs have been used to aid those with disabilities. However, new research is showing these dogs can also benefits students. Daisy comes to visit the 2nd grade class 1 or 2 times a week. During her time there, students read to her. This can alleviate the pressure of reading aloud in small or large groups as well as the anxiety some students face in general when it comes to reading aloud. It also teaches the students a sense of community. This is where the 2nd part of the story comes in. Daisy was injured this past summer and required surgery. Schuyler's teacher came up with the idea of "Dimes for Daisy" where students would bring in dimes and this money would assist with the cost. During her absence, Joker came to visit but Daisy is now well enough to resume her duties. We have the news special taped = )

While on the subject of school, Mack and Eli had parent visitation at the Montessori last night. Mack was uber excited to show us all she has been learning at kindergarten. She has always had a passion for her workbook work but has recently blossomed in her reading. She read several books to us as well as wrote sentences with the movable alphabet. Eli chose to show us his puzzle work with the world map. Mack will be going on her kindergarten class field trip this weekend (the whole 3 of them =)

We're trying to stay healthy. Eli had a fever from Sunday a.m. until Wed afternoon sometime. Mack's voice comes and goes. The other night she said, "Mom, have you ever last your voice", to which I replied, "Yes, many times. It always comes back". Mack responds, "I've lost my voice before and it came back. I hope it will come back again." = )

Schuyler's last bball game is this weekend. We are hoping it does not get cancelled.

Oh, during Eli's sickness, we watched a new movie, Spiderman 2. It has moved it's way to number 1 on his movie list. "Spidy" as he calls it.

Here's my bath-tastic boy = )

valentine assembly line

2010-02-12T08:24:00.002-06:00

Every year at this time, the kids and I become the valentine assembly line, crafting valentines for all of their classmates. See, the montessori where they attend does not allow store bought valentines, or should I say strongly encourages homemade valentines. Although Schuyler's school does allow store bought, it has become a bit of a tradition to make our own. I find this a bit ironic since I'm really not a fan of valentine's day. I don't really like flowers and, in fact, roses are one of my least favorites and the fact that they mark everything up by 50%. Instead, the Riese family typically enjoys takeout, most often Chinese, my candle light. The kids get a big kick out of the candles and I have no cooking or clean-up! This year, the Chinese new year and Valentine's day are the same day so our little tradition makes perfect sense = ) Back to the homemade valentines. I cheated a bit this year and made photocards. However, we still had to decorate the outside of the envelope. The potato stamper returned and made an appearance, along with some other stamps I had laying around the house from my scrapbooking days. Eli hit his limit at 8 or 9 valentines before he relinquished his duty to me. Mack and Schuyler thoroughly enjoyed the experience, making each valentine unique and special.

I have officially caught the "winter blah". That's my new official term for it, "winter blah"! I would like to ring the neck of Punxsutawney Phil for seeing his shadow and condemning us to 6 more weeks of winter. I need warmth, light and energy to return to my life. Ugh!

Last weekend the girls participated in the Shirette kiddie clinic. This consisted of 3 hours of dance in the a.m. followed by a half-time performance at the boys basketball game. If that wasn't enough, between the 2 activities Mack had a playdate with one of her best friends who she has not seen since August. Later, as we were getting ready for the performance it was very evident how tired she was. As I was curling her hair, I accidentally nicked her ear. From that point forward it was tears, drama and mom could do no right, particularly b/c someone didn't know what she wanted. I offered to put the portion of uncurled hair in a bun or finish curling, etc... All my suggestions were shot down by our little fiery spirit. Eventually she came around and we were able to finish her hair to her specifications. The dance was very cute. For the grand finale, they got to choose the pose they wanted to end in. You will never believe what our miss Schuyler did, jumped into the splits! It blew me away. For the record, her father is extremely flexible for a male being and back in our day, when we used to bust a move, he was known to fancy the crowd with his splits.

Schuyler got her 2nd quarter report card and also recently received a high five award. This is a big deal as the award was presented to her in front of her whole class. I think they give one per quarter. As a prize, she gets a free kids buffet from Valentinos!! She got one last year, too. As you can imagine, we are so proud of her!! Have I ever mentioned that her name has dutch origin and means "scholarly" = )

These days, Eli can be found racing his cars all through the house and crashing them into things. The kid LOVES showers and baths and hops in with mom or dad whenever the opportunity presents itself.

hair episode

2010-01-29T08:53:00.002-06:00

Sunday, we discovered a chunk of "unknown" in Mack's hair. We washed and conditioned it and used the detangler with no luck. Next up we tried home remedies including olive oil, peanut butter and ice. Still, the unknown clinged strongly to Mack's hair. I had prepared Mack that we may have to cut it out and in turn, cut her hair shorter. She did not like this idea one bit and it led to drama. "When will my hair be long again? I've never had short hair. How fast will it grow?" and what upset her the most..."I need long hair for my dance recital so I can put it up like all the other girls". Oh dear my Mack, you don't leave a stone unturned to you! The next day, I took her to Haircut (catchy name) and prayed I would get someone that new what the heck they were doing. I talked to the lady and explained what happened all the while Mack sat silently in the chair with a sad expression on her face. Well, it turns out we could avoid the short hair, cut off an inch and do some blending. Oh the smile on Mack's face when she heard the news. And, the avoidance of more drama for mom!! The unknown remained unknown. It could have been something from her princess b-day party on Saturday or her brother has a bad habit of taking the gum out of his mouth and "saving it for later".

I should point out this is my child who has had many hair mishaps. At Christmas, she decided to put her zhu zhu pet in her hair with the feet (wheels) going. Not a good idea and if you read the instructions in full it clearly states not to do this. I can't count the number of times Mack herself or her beloved sister have tried to cut her hair as well. Recall the incident where she gave herself bangs here.

So, here is our trip to Haircut...

Big sister waiting patiently, writing in her journal.

Little brother trying hard to be patient and playing with the salon toys, which have been handled by many other kids and probably never cleaned. I even brought toys, Mater and Lightning. He did attempt to race them through hair droppings but I put the kabosh on that. Yes, he is not sitting in the correct position and those are kid-tatoos on his arms.

On a not so pleasant side note, it appears the cold season has officially hit the Riese household. It started with Eli in the form of a barky cough. He seems to be recovering but the rest of the family is now catching it or some other germ bug. Mark has strep throat and sinus infection. My sleep was interrupted 4 times by the girls last night and my sinuses are draining. Uck! Good thing it's Friday.

back-seat blog

2010-01-22T09:53:00.003-06:00

So my poor blog has taken the back seat to everything else. And what is that "everything else" you wonder? Really, I'm not too sure myself.

Where did I leave off? Oh yes, Eli's bday. We had a fabulous time at Coco Keys. It started out on a rough note as the kiddie pool was closed b/c someone went #2, the hot tub was temporarily closed and Eli was an 1 1/2 too short for the medium slides, which was a true bummer since they let him go on them in KC! Luckily, they got everything mended and Eli did make it down the medium slides once they had a changing of the guards = ) We spent a good 6 hours there and didn't leave until 8:00 or so. We hadn't ate so on the way home we stopped at El Bee's. This tex-mex place is bueno. Huge portions, wonderful margaritas, and great atmosphere for kids! Back to Eli's bday. We celebrated with family on Sunday. As requested, I managed to free-hand Kung Fu Panda, Po. See below. Not only was the outside frosting green but the cake itself had to be green as well.

The following week I triple whammied my son with appts. Dentist, LPS, and Doctor all on one day. All went well. His teeth are good. Hopefully, next visit he'll allow them to get xrays =) He has been dismissed from working with LPS. When they tested him at the age of 2.11, he tested at a level 3.8. They showed us the bell curve of where he started and where he ended and we are so proud of our little man. The Dr. appt was entertaining as they attempted to test his hearing and eye sight. Instead of cooperating, he thought it much more interesting to play games with the nurse. So, when she asked what the picture was he responded with "I don't know", with HUGE grin on his face. Yes, he was totally playing her. Same thing next picture. It's very obviously a race car. Eli's response, "Ummmm, pencil", again with his mischievous grin and laughter in his voice. You get the picture. Despite this he got a clean bill of health. He measures in at the 90th percentile and weighs in at the 75th percentile. Reminds me a lot of Schuyler.

Schuyler began micro basketball this past Sunday. It is a sight to see. Mark is the coach and he does a great job with the girls, at least from what I saw as I was chasing the other 2 in the adjoining gym.

This week was parent visitation at Mack's dance class. We got a glimpse of the costumes and they are very Cinderella-like so it's right up her ally. They even have flowers they will hold in the dance. She is in combo class and is bit disappointed they aren't doing tap. It will be a ballet performance.

With the ucky weather we have enjoyed games. Monopoly Jr, Sorry, Sequence, Uno, Twister, Mouse Trap, Apples to Apples, and a lot of Mario Cart on the Wii.

Here are a few pics. I didn't sharpen for web so they are a bit on the soft side.

Here is Po.

One of Eli's 3 year portraits.

Mack at dance.

Schuyler, just because =)

My boy is 3!

2010-01-08T11:13:00.003-06:00

It happens every year. My kids become another year older. They don't ask permission to become bigger and brighter, they just do. So long as the world keeps turning and the good lord keeps us together, we will continue to celebrate birthdays and milestones.

Eli got his bday wish, a stay home day with mom. Although, I'm sure we both wish the arctic temperatures would leave already. It was a low key day. He requested Dad's homemade pizza for dinner and a Panda Bear cake (Po, from Kung Fu Panda). The cake is yet to come as we will be celbrating with family on Sunday. I have looked high and low for a Kung Fu Panda cake pan or mold with no luck. I guess this means I will be free handing Po. Eli is the proud owner of a BOYS bike! Yeah! No more riding his sisters' very used, with no tread on the wheels, princess bike. It was used when we got it and has lived a very long life. Long rest the princess bike. Now he will be terrorizing the streets with his blue bike with green wheels. That is, if the snow will ever melt. I'm sure he will be very cool indeed = )

Thoughts on my boy...He loves the movie Kung Fu Panda. He never sleeps without his blue blankie and must find his holes to put his fingers in. He's an "I do it myself" man, even if it means climbing up onto the counter or helping himself to the refridgerator. He can make us laugh with his "serious old man" voice. He's in tune to his feminine side and is okay playing Barbie's and babies with his big sisters. At his ripe old age of 3, he prefers boxer briefs to undies. However, given any opportunity he prefers streaking. Really, you can't turn your back on him. Oh dear, did he give us a good laugh at my bros house on xmas!! The best thing: he loves his momma and is okay with mommy still rocking him, cuddling him, and giving him big bear hugs.

One last thing to leave you with. An excerpt from the Lyrics of Godspeed by the Dixie Chicks. LOVE this song!

"The rocket racer's all tuckered out
Superman's in pajamas on the couch
Goodnight moon, will find the mouse
And I love you

Godspeed, little man
Sweet dreams, little man
Oh my love will fly to you each night on angels wings
Godspeed
Sweet dreams

God bless mommy and match box cars
God bless dad and thanks for the stars
God hears "Amen," wherever we are
And I love you"

2010 here we come...

2009-12-31T07:59:00.002-06:00

It's time to say good-bye to 2009 and say hello to 2010. As I get older, the years get harder to say good-bye to. I look back at images through the year and see my kids getting older and once again it's like a smack in the face just how fast time goes by. After the Christmas rush it's a reminder not to get stuck in the minutia of day to day things. But it's hard. I do good for a while and then get bogged back down. So, I'm making it a New Year's resolution. My implementation plan is not clear yet, but I'll think of something.

Anyway, this post has taken an extreme turn from what I had planned so let's get things back on track. I have been enjoying a much needed break from photography (with a few minor exceptions) and most importantly some much needed time away from my day job and major quality time with my kids. I've decided this is the best way to get rid of excess PTO = )

What have we been up to you wonder? Let's see. One day it went something like this. Dog pukes. Not sure how long it had sat there before Schuyler found it and it was finally cleaned up. Yuck. The 2 younger kids are napping so it seems like a good time to paint the basement, our latest project in getting the house ready for market. Oh no, kids don't sleep very long and I'm not done. Dog manages to bump both sides of her rear-end into the wet paint on wall. I stop and clean dog off. Use this as an example and warn kids again. Eli can't resist being away from mom and bumps new shirt and new jeans into paint. He is devasted for his clothes. I reassure him I can get it out however he is already running back to his room to hide behind his chair. Yes, this is what he does when he's ashamed, feelings are hurt or he knows he's in trouble. Back to the point, painting is put on hold.

Want another story. One Sunday a.m. I turn cartoons on for the kids so Mark and I can get a few extra zzz's before church. Once awake, Eli climbs on my lap with his beloved blankie. He say's he doesn't feel well which is quite obvious when he no sooner gets the words out and is now getting sick all over me. Hmm, smells like fruit juice. Eli and the girls claim he's had nothing to eat or drink. Hmm. We take him to bathroom and he gets sick again. He wants to take a bath so we make a luke warm one. About that time Mark comes in with the vitamin jar which was completely full last night and is now 1/3 empty. Looks like we foundd the culprit. Within seconds of the discovery, Eli is getting sick again. This time, there is proof as we see regurgitated vitamins. I think this will be a lesson learned for him!

There are xmas stories and othe non-important happenings but they will have to wait for another day.

Here's an internet toast to 2010 -

New Beginnings...
New Challenges...
New Possibilities...

Here comes Santa Claus!

2009-12-24T15:18:00.002-06:00

Our house is bounding with much enthusiasm and excitement. Translation: this means the kids are bouncing off the wall with anticipation. Rising at 5:45 am and no naps!

It looks like we will be snowed in. The forecast is constantly changing but we are expecting somewhere in the range of 6-12in with blizzard like conditions. We were supposed to be celebrating xmas eve with my side of the family but are postponing until later.

We had a pleasant visit with Santa last week. It's sure nice of him to stop at Daddy's work = ) All 3 kids actually sat on his lap this year. Eli kept asking if the big man would bite him?! Here is what they told Santa they wanted: Schuyler - High School Musical 3 DVD, McKenzie - everything in the whole wide world (yes, those were her exact words) and Eli - snacks! Really, snacks, where did that one come from.

Eli, as might be expected from a typical 3 year old boy, managed to open one of his presents while I was in the laundry room. Nice!

From Luke 2:8-14 “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

you've come a long way...

2009-12-18T08:47:00.002-06:00

My Eli! You really have come a long way in the last year + some. Yesterday we met with LPS to evaluate if we need to continue services with them. We sat at the table and they did some assesments with you. I'm sure they seemed like fun games as you smiled the whole time. They asked questions until you hit a "ceiling" or a point where you could no longer consistantly answer the questions correctly. I think you enjoyed the challenged = ) While she couldn't show me exact results, we know that you are now testing at and well above the verbal and expressive language requirements. When we started the program, you were barely below one of the required levels, but for the other, you were well below the required level. Almost into the level of "severe", whatever that means. It was the source of many frustrations for you, which resulted in behaviors I didn't know how to deal with. We will never know if you were just a late talker, your sisters did all the talking for you, or if working with LPS gave you the boost you needed. What I do know is I'm EXTREMELY proud of you and all you have accomplished. In a few short weeks, you will be 3!! Wow! Things I love right now is that you can count to 20, you can recite your night time prayer and lead dinner time prayer (and are often the first to remind us when we forget). You are sweet and sensitive mixed with a little mischevious.

Mark and I enjoyed a day up in Omaha last week! My dad braved taking the kids to a movie and over night!! Thank you! We got the majority of our xmas shopping done and enjoyed dinner and after drinks with my brother and SIL. It's been a long time since we've done that and I LOVE that my bro is close again! We went to Dario's Brasserie. Everything was simply wonderful. Top notch food, fine beers, and an elegant french-style ambiance. For beer, I chose the Lindemans Framboise, which is a beer with a mix of raspberries. I strayed from my usual dark, Guiness like beer. However, we all chose a variety and tooks turns sampling so I did get a sip of the St. Bernardus Abt 12, a nice dark beer! For my entree, I chose the Mussels blue cheese. I HIGHLY recommend going here if you have the opportunity.

A summary of Thanksgiving in pictures.

Long trip down. Eli watching Shrek. Not pictured is the girls in the back watching High School Musical.

After a little while on the road he's out! Yeah = )

Did I mention eating? In typical Thanksgiving fashion, good food and desserts were plentiful. Eli helps himself to 2 servings of dessert.

Play time. Pick-up time. Play time. Pick-up time. You get the drift.

Lots of love and chillaxin'!

time for a change...

2009-12-12T10:04:00.002-06:00

I'm FINALLY getting around to changing my blog header. It's going to take me at least a couple of tries to get things just right. So, the blog is in a state of ever changing flux at the moment. Don't be surprised if you see a couple of different "faces" during the the process = )

her prayer

2009-12-11T08:09:00.002-06:00

For Schuyler's bedtime prayer, this is what she said, "Dear God, Thank you for all the snow and cancelling school so my mom could stay home with us for 3 days. Maybe you could do this again in January." How very sweet is that?!

Being off the past 3 days has been good. At times, I wondered if we were going stir crazy but yesterday was truly a good day. We played lots of games... sequence, which Eli is now into, Sorry, and the Wii! Tuesday and Wednesday we enjoyed sledding down the walk path next to us. Thursday, they got the streets plowed so we could leave home. We went up to Southeast High School for some more intense sledding. Mark had got a couple more sleds so there was no fighting and everybody was sharing!! It was very apparent to me that Eli is NOT so little. Seems like the past few years I've had to carry or help him up the steep slope. Not this year. Not only can he make it up all by himself but he doesn't want mom's help nor her hand. In fact, he's able to carry the sled up and on multiple occassions (after I tried to help) he told me, "I do it by myself"!

Last night we listened to Polar Express on cd. I need to go to the library and get more books on tape/cd.

Here are my 2 of my 3 snow angels = )

This one was not wanting me to take his picture. "Don't take my temperature!!". I'm sure he meant picture but for the record, he doesn't like his temperature take either!

This ones love the snow and was screaming with glee! Some of our neighbors may beg to differ on the sound. See, you must live with her to know her different screams = )

where, oh where...

2009-12-04T14:11:00.001-06:00

does the time go? This post will mostly be randomness as I just don't have the time I would like to devote to it right now.

Last week I found a sign written in Schuyler's handwriting and it was taped to Schuyler and Mack's bedroom door. It said, "I want to be left alone." Does it have to start so soon?! It's a little bit heartbreaking. It's independence and the need for space.

Eli is a master puzzler. The kid has an addiction. He's good. Really good. It started with 20 piece puzzles and it's now up to 50 or 60. Wow!

Mack is happy that the lights are up on our house. We did it the weekend before Thanksgiving, when it was warm. Everyday when we get home, she plugs them in. We finally put the tree up this week. She was ready to do it the minute we got back from our Thanksgiving break. Never mind the unloading, unpacking, laundry etc... that needed to be done. According to her, everybody else had their tree up. It took 3 days to get it up and decorated, with activities and what not. It passes her inspection of beautifulness (barely). Apparently, it needs more ornaments. I wanted to tell her it was because of her and her siblings we don't have as many as we used to. However, the rest of the house is not beautiful in her eyes. I think she has been looking at too many potterybarn magazines or better home and garden. So, I will be attempting to beautify my home. This is NOT my forte so I'm seeking inspiration - on a budget please! Leave me a msg or send me an email with suggestions. I don't want to let my daughter down = )

I know some of you enjoy your beer and adult beverages as much as I do. I highly recommend Winter's Bourbon Cask Ale. They had samples at the grocery store and my hubby picked it up for me. I evidently am grocery shopping at the wrong time!! They don't have these samples when I go, which always tends to be with 3 kids!!!

3 dogs...

2009-11-20T12:55:00.002-06:00

Me: "Eli, what do you want for Christmas?"

Eli: "Three dogs."

Me: "Um, that's a lot of dogs. What would you name them?"

Eli: "Green"

Me: Hmmm, that is his favorite color. "What about the other dogs? What would their name be?"

Eli: "Pink"

Me: I might be seeing a trend. Pink is Mack's favorite color. "What about the last dog?"

Eli: "Red."

Me: Here I thought he would choose yellow, which is Schuyler's favorite color. Sorry Schuyler, guess he's going with Dad's favorite color. Wouldn't those be interesting dog names. I can just hear it now, "Come Green, Pink, and Red. Oh, and Sadie." It's a good thing the Lincoln city dog limit is 3!

Mack is officially racing around on her bike without her training wheels!! I have NEVER seen a girl so hard on herself. I think she thought she would take them off, get on her bike and go! When we started, she would get frustrated with everything. From the leaves and acorns on the sidewalk to any other pedestrian with whom she had to share rights of the sidewalk with, but specifically her brother and sister. She would play the blame game. "Mom, you're helping too much. Now you're not helping enough." After this little episode I told her I would help if she could be nice otherwise I was walking away and the choice was hers. Let's just say I didn't help and actually, I think we were both better off. She still had moments of frustration and a melt down or two but she did it herself. Go Mackie, go! Next task, learning to turn around in drive ways = )

You are probably expecting pictures of the kids. Sorry folks. I have another landscape. I shouldn't tell you this but I took it from a moving car!! Even though I would have composed it differently given the opportunity, I still like the image.

a traditional Halloween

2009-11-09T13:53:00.002-06:00

As far as costumes are concerned. Here is our spooky spider, witchy witch and crazy cat. The spider has detested costumes since his first Halloween! Loves it until it's actually time to put it on!! Our witch LOVES Halloween and couldn't sleep the night before because she was so anxious. I can't imagine what Christmas will be like! Our cat was a bit under the weather and ran a low grade fever but that didn't keep her down. Well, really nothing keeps her down. She's kind of like an energizer bunny. These were taken BEFORE we painted faces!!

spider...

witch...

cat (with spider peaking)...

Eli has developed an obsession with Kung Fu Panda! I'm wondering when his love affair will end? He's done this with other movies... Shrek, then Lion King, now Kung Fu Panda. Time for a new one = )

Mark and I attempted and a photo shoot for our xmas card. As if it wasn't challenging enough, I thought it would be a good idea to take Sadie along, too! Hmm, must have had some crazy juice for lunch or something!! I *think* (ie crossing my fingers) we got 1 with all 3 kids and maybe one with the dog, too. I know I got a great image of Mack and Eli. As much as I'm dying to share, you might not get to see until the xmas card is done. In typical fashion, there is always some drama when we attempt a photo shoot. As we are packing up the van, Eli slams Mack's fingers in the door. Instantaneously, there is high pitched screaming and tears flowing down her face. It's already swollen and black and blue. We race home (thankfully we weren't far)! Mack is still screaming and crying and we sit her down on daddy's lap with 2 ice packs. (We figure we better double up.) She calms down with the assistance of some fruit snacks. It is still swollen and black and blue but much better than we initially feared. Hopefully, I have not scarred her for life and she will eventually do another photo shoot = )

how spectacular

2009-11-04T13:18:00.002-06:00

How spectacular is this?! This is what I witnessed on Sunday evening, along with several other beautiful scenes. See, I had some time to myself traveling back from a photoshoot. On the way there, my mind was racing, making mental do lists and reminders and flipping through the stations. It wasn't until the way home that I let my mind rest and take notice of my surroundings. The natural beauty that God has created that I don't take notice of often enough. The way the sun illuminated the cornfields, the sky filled with beautiful white clouds, the red barn sitting in the middle of the lush green grash, and SO many other things. Had I not needed to pick up Mack from a bday party, I would have made several stops and attempted to capture some of God's beauty. I was fortunate enough to capture this sunset. I have looked at it several times as a reminder to myself to laydown my heavy burden I have put on myself. It is not God who puts it there but me. I fulfill a million roles a day... photographer, care giver, mother, wife, friend, teacher, etc... but rarely do I fulfill the one role I need to, which is child of God. I'm to busy making it from day to day, hour to hour and sometimes minute to minute. In the past 3 days I have vowed to spend more time with Him. Even if short periods. I'm laying my burdens at his feet, waving my white flag and asking for help. It's hard for me not pick it all up b/c I like the control. But really, even when I think I'm in control, I'm not.

our pumpkin... Flower Rose

2009-10-30T08:22:00.002-05:00

We are finally on the road to recovery. Mack and Eli went back to the Montessori yesterday. I have your typical cold symptoms... runny nose, aches, and tiredness. (What a surprise being I've been coughed on for 4 days straight = ) Luckily, I've gone to bed around 9:00 the past 2 nights, which is unheard of for me. Schuyler appears to be losing her voice and has developed a cough. This a.m. she had dark circles under her eyes. I am praying she stays healthy for Halloween! Maybe I should start bathing her in germ-x as I have done for the past week!

My wonderful MIL watched Schuyler yesterday as well as do my dishes, scrub my toilets, wash and fold 4 or so loads of laundry and I'm sure there is more I'm forgetting. She is heaven sent and the reason why I was able to go to bed early.

During our time together, the 2 sickies and I were able to gut and carve the pumpkin. Unfortunately, this meant I wasn't able to roast the pumpkin seeds like I do every year but it was entertaining. This is our sole pumpkin. With the kids being down and out and now the cold, rainy weather, there was no trip to the pumpkin patch = ( I always enjoy all the activities, the fall colors, the smell in the air and of course the wonderful photo ops! Back to our pumpkin, her name is Flower Rose and I'm sure for those of you who know us well, you will know who named the pumpkin =) So from our kitchen table to your home, Happy Halloween!!

H1N1 strikes

2009-10-27T10:12:00.002-05:00

Where, oh where do I begin... How about a little game... Where's McKenzie?

Can you find her? This my friends, is what micro soccer looks like. A herd of children trying to get the ball and break free of the mass chaos. Mack's last soccer game was last Sunday. They ended with their only win = ) The score was 3 to 1 and my little Mack scored 2 goals. (Yes, I am, one proud mama)! Oh, she has also decided on Monday it was time for the training wheels on her bicycle to come off! It's a little rough riding but she can occasionally make it from one driveway to the next. Surprisingly, she actually does better on a slight incline. That's my Mack!

There is lots going on with schools. I observed Mack and Eli at the Montessori 2 weeks ago. It was so heart warming to see Mack reading to one of the younger students. Learning to read is such an amazing thing. Eli was busy doing activities... matching physical objects to the flash cards. This was in preparation for their conferences, which was last week. (More on that in a minute). Two Fridays ago, when I picked up the kids, Mack came running up to me and said "Eli's moving to my room on Monday". I looked to one of the teacher's who confirmed this. My baby in the primary classroom!? Really? Is it possible that he's ready but maybe I'm not ready? I have mixed emotions. He was so excited and that excitement continued on his first day and through the week. Back to conferences. Mack was up first. With only 3 kids in kindergarten program, she is getting a lot of one on one and has evolved into a leader. This reaffirms our decision to keep her at the Montesorri. We had to make some sacrifices, like the new house we want. This was her time to step out of the shadows of her older sister. She can be found helping younger kids with work or snacks or reading to them. They great thing about reading to a younger child is there is NO pressure. They don't know if you mess up a word and they don't care if you do. She has completed her first workbook and is already on to the next. As for Eli, he had mastered everything in the toddler room and was becoming frustrated. He wanted and needed more.

Schuyler had her conference on Tuesday. She continues to do well in school but more importantly seems to have a true love of learning. Her teacher had many nice things to say but the one that stands out is about her as a whole. She is a leader, but not the "I'll tell you what to do kind", it's more of a lead by example. He equated it to sports, she knows what the goal of the classroom is and is there to master it and help others along the way.

Here's the saga of sickness. Thursday, after the Montessori conferences, we notice Mack and Eli were warm. Sure enough fevers, Mack low grade but Eli higher. Friday a.m. - Mack is warm but well enough to go to school but Eli is not. Saturday - Eli becomes progressively worse. His cough is now a bark and Mack's fever is going up. We call the Dr. and they say it's flu (possibly H1N1) and to wait it out. Schuyler is sent to Gma and Gpa's in Hastings. Saturday night - Eli sounds like a seal. His fever is 103.6 and the coughing spells are severe. We contemplate taking him to ER. Mark waits for 53 minutes on the line with ask a nurse. We are tired and frustrated. I sleep in regular clothes, prepared to leave at a moment's notice. Eli sleeps on me or next to me. Sunday - we get the kids into the Dr. Without the official swab, he's 95% sure it's H1N1. Eli gets a steroid shot b/c his throat is swollen and restricted. At this point, there is nothing they can do for Mack. Sunday night - repeat of Saturday night but this time it's Mack. Monday - call Dr. and they prescribe liquid steroids for Mack. Monday night - By this time, I am tired and exhausted and would like to sleep in my own bed! I get 2.5 hours of this before Mack is up. I sleep in her bed with her. Then, Eli is up, I sleep with him in the recliner. He's back to sleep and now Mack is up.

On a brighter note - Schuyler had her last soccer game on Saturday. I was solo coach and there were just enough girls to play - no subs. Not ideal! However, it was one of the BEST games. I don't know what the reason - maybe all the hard practice paid off, maybe they were so tired they figured it out they had no choice but to find their teammates - but they were passing. They did some amazing things... dribble down the sideline and center the ball to the middle, score off a corner kick, etc... Schuyler scored one of the most amazing points, the ball was up in the air and to the corner of the net. They played with guts and grit and everything they had. They tied. I was SO proud of them. I was a bit bummed I couldn't take pictures so I hope the hubby got some = )

One more thing. There has been a lot of uncertainty regarding my job. I am fortunate and will keep my job. My duties may change and I'll have a new manager. However, this is not true for everyone. It has been the first time in my life I've seen fellow friends and associates lose their jobs. Deep down I know there is a new journey waiting for them and God has a plan for each of us. I try to find comfort in this but my heart still goes to them during this transitional time. I'm in awe of their optimism.

how to make a snowman

2009-10-14T07:21:00.003-05:00

Welcome to "How to make a snowman" with our host, McKenzie (aka Mackie). You will need a small amount of snow, warm clothing (mittans, winter coat, boots, and hat), what ever you can find for the eyes, mouth, etc..., and some determination and patience. Once you have your winter gear on, you will need to start forming the snow into balls. Mackie demonstrates below by rolling and packing snow.

Repeat as necessary, stacking each ball one on top of another, until you reach the desired height of your snowman.

Find items to use for eyes and nose. Originally, Mack chose a baby carrot for the nose and raisins for the eyes. Apply each by gently pushing them on to the face of the snowman. Note, you may need to temporarily remove gloves or mittans.

At this point, the snowman was done. However, Sunday rolled around and the snow began to melt some, as you can observe by the green grass. However, Mackie's snowman still stood. Unfortunately, his head fell off (with the assistance of the older sister) and a dog ate the eyes. This greatly displeased Mackie and so it was time to re-do the snowman. Again, the baby carrot was used for the nose. This time round pretzels were used for the eyes. Twigs and sticks were used for the ears, mouth and arms. And, as a bonus, a branch with leaves was used for the 'fro! Here is snowman in his last leg of life...

Thank you for joining us. Mackie is ready for the next snow. Me, not so much = ) It can come in November or December and that would be perfectly fine with me!

Just us...

2009-10-07T13:52:00.002-05:00

I posted this on my photography blog but thought I would post it here as well, even though you all know who I am! This picture was taken by Jen Hoevet, a photographer based in the LaVista area. We just "met" a few short weeks ago but through the wonderful world of email, quickly became friends. Her family ventured down to Lincoln and we traded services. My ultimate goal was to get just 1, count it 1, family picture. When I saw the picture below, it warmed my heart. Don't be surprised if that's on our xmas card!!

Last night we had another McKenzism. We were at the dinner table and she said, "Mom, this is the BEST dinner ever! It's deliciable". Yes, not delicious but deliciable. Now, guess what we had... tuna noodle casserole. Really, that's all I had to cook to get a compliment like that! Wish I would have known that earlier.

It's getting cooler here in good 'ol NE. I finally convinced Mark to turn the furnace on. I've only been walking around in several layer for 5 or so days!

On another random note, I can hear again! I've felt like my hearing has been muffled for the last several months. Last week, I went to the Dr. and my ears were clogged. I think he said it was like little rocks in my ears. Not uncommon. I've had my ears irrigated before as I have small ear cannals and apparently the my ears are very proficient at making wax. Well, he couldn't get it out and prescribed some ear drops. I went back yesterday and this time he was successful in removing the rocks! My first response was how loud the Dr. sounded. He said I would likely want a volumne control b/c people would sound loud. My 2nd response, "Great, I can't wait to really hear how loud McKenzie is when she screams!!"

Blog Slacker

2009-09-30T10:16:00.002-05:00

Hi. My name is Jill and I'm a blog slacker! Where has the time gone? Days into weeks and tomorrow is October? Really?

This past weekend was filled to the brim with going here and be there, one after another. Photo shoots, soccer games, church, and an outing with Mark. As the trees begin to turn colors and the weather starts to cool I feel a sense to slow down. Stop and look around, maybe even linger. Give the kids an extra hug and let them know how truly special I feel to be their mother. Tonight we have no activities, no where to be. I have a craving for oatmeal scotchies = ) Hmmm...

Back to the weekend, I had the pleasure of solo-coaching both Schuyler and Mack's soccer games. They both ended up tying and each scored a girl = ) I LOVE the game of soccer but even more LOVE to help young girls learn the game and grow. Mark's parents came up for the weekend so Mark and I could enjoy a round of golf with some friends. Saturday's weather was perfect! Us girls even got a legit birdie playing best ball = ) I hit the green with my drive and my friend sunk the putt in the hole!! Afterwards, we watched the game at the Embassy.

Schuyler has become a fan of Mia Hamm. We bought a children's book about her and she likes to read it in her leisure. Lately, she has most enjoyed tooling around the sidewalk on her rollerblades.

Mack is enjoying kindergarten. Her favorite activity is writing in her journal and making illustrations.

Eli, well he continues to collect sticks and rocks. It is not uncommon for me to find rocks in my purse or hear a lound banging coming from the dryer and the cause is usually a rock in one of his pockets.

One of the rugrats and my mom.

breathe and wish...

2009-09-11T08:42:00.002-05:00

"...and breathe and wish and hope for the best for your laughter makes my entire world go round."

Just stumbled on this in my browsings and liked it. Not sure if it's a quote and if it is, who it's from?

Mack was in the mood for some pictures after nap so we went outside and made the best use of our yard. This is one of the best times to photograph her, after nap. Her hair gets little waves and sometimes is matted if she gets warm. It's very her. Rarely, if ever, do I pose her. It's so natural and effortless for her. I could stare at this picture all day. It warms my heart and brings a smile to my face. She's growing and maturing. Although spirited she may be, she is also very soulful.

Here's one of Eli... "Mom, I'm going to take these sticks and show you what I really think of you pointing that lens at me all the time". I'm pretty sure that's what he's thinking!

Schuyler had a play date the other day with one of her buds. This is SO them = )

Mack and Eli love sleeping in the bottom bunk together on the weekend. I think they are both looking forward to tonight.

We have been enjoying the beautiful evenings with bike rides. Mack and Eli in the trailer (they actually get along now - no more hair pulling)! Who ever pulls the trailer definitely gets an "extra" workout!

What a week!!

2009-09-04T13:32:00.003-05:00

The good, the bad, and the unknown. Where to start?!

Last week I started a bootcamp fitness program. It's time to tone this body of mine and get some muscle definition back! I could tell after the first session last Thursday it was a good work out. Muscles I forgot I had were hurting. I do it over my lunch hour and I wasn't sure I could lift my sandwich to my mouth my arms hurt so bad. The man who runs it is Steve Auxier. He actually comes to Ameritas: 2 times a week during the lunch hour and 2 times a week after work. I believe he is eventually opening his own gym but for now he holds sessions around the Lincoln area. Go check out his website. I've heard from several individuals he is one of the best trainers in town.

Schuyler had a phenomenal soccer game on Saturday. She played half the game in goal and half as center midfield. She scored a goal and stopped numerous balls as goalie. The girl is tough! I was so proud of her! As our head coach was gone, I got a little taste of being head dog. The opposing team scored 3 goals in the last 2-3 minutes of the game. It was not pretty and much due to having the wrong girls in at the wrong time or in the wrong position. In other words, coaching error. Oh well. Unfortunately the better team (us) lost, but that's how it goes some times!

Saturday night, my father took the kids overnight so Mark and I had a chance to go out and celebrate our anniversary! We went to Fireworks and rented a movie. The whole night cost us a little over $10!! Got to love gift cards = ) Thank you dad!

Sunday was Mack's first soccer game. She had been counting downs days and hours! I forgot just how small their field is and how small they look on the field and in their soccer gear. As typical of a first game, there was a fair share of confusion. Every once and a while I would observe Mack playing with her hair!! However, she was the only one on her team to score a goal! She had a grin from ear to ear.

Eli had a fever ALL weekend long. From the time I picked him up on Friday until Tuesday a.m. We took him to the Dr. on Monday to rule out the possiblity of anything else. He is all healthy now.

This Tuesday marked Mack's official first day of kindergarten, although she has already been working on the material. Everyday, she comes home with a list of words...dog, pan, cat , etc... She is so enthused to be one of the leaders! Eli comes and visits her room and she loves to help him. I'm not sure that feeling is recripocated by Eli = )

We have had some anouncements at work and a massive reorganization is in our future. We have new org charts but decisions about who will be placed where will not be decided until some time Nov. It's an unsettling feeling as I truly enjoy my job, co-workers and manager.

Here are 2 new faves of my kiddos and one of Mack in her soccer gear!

Happy Labor Day Weekend!!!

9 years and counting

2009-08-26T14:34:00.002-05:00

Today Mark and I celebrate 9 years of marriage. Really? Where has the time gone? I remember sleeping in my parents basement, my bro on one couch and myself on the other. I remember the butterflies in my stomach, the weakness in my knees, and the anticipation. I remember concentrating on Mark's face during the ceremony. We have been blessed in these 9 years but as all couples we have faced some trials and tribulations along the way, each making our relationship stronger. I love how our personalities compliment each other bringing about a balance. He is the one to always voice his opinion regardless of circumstance but yet always tactful. I often hold back, afraid to hurt feelings or not wanting to be the voice of opposition. The times when my emotions want to make decisions he gently steps in with the voice of reason. I hope for many more years to come.

As for recent happenings... Schuyler had her first soccer game, which they won. She played half the time on the field and the other half as goal, where she played outstanding. In her words, "Nobody will score", and nobody did. Mack is counting the days until her first game. She will be the one with pink shorts, pink socks, and probably some cute ribbon in her hair.

We finally went to the Farmer's Market in the Haymarket this weekend. We always pick up some goodies, kettle corn, sweet corn, a couple packages of bratwurst, and cheese. I LOVE the cheese we got. It's a buffalo wing cheese and very tasty!!

A few pics for fun!

Back from vacay...

2009-08-21T06:56:00.002-05:00

Back from vacay! We had such a good time. We left Sat a.m. and got in around 1:30 and immediately hit the water slides at Coco Keys. That evening we went to Joe's Crab Schack, which I would HIGHLY recommend. Very kid friendly. We ate outdoors b/c it was such a nice evening. They had a balloon man making various animals so we had to get Mack a heart with little bear and Schuyler wanted a Kansas City Chiefs one, mainly for the yellow I think. Eli was indifferent. They had an outdoor playland the kids used while I sipped a Mojito and Mark had a lemonade concoction. Funny story. Mark goes inside to get a beer and Schuyler and I are talking on the deck overlooking playland. Mack comes running up, "Mom, Mom, you have to see Eli. Come quickly". I go after her and find Eli buck naked climbing up the slide. Sheesh! He thought he would go potty in the sand and then take off his shirt. About the time I'm trying to get him dressed, the waitress comes to let us know our food is ready.

Sunday, we thought about Worlds of Fun but it was raining. We had some friends with kids similar ages to ours so we got our money's worth out of Coco Keys. Then, we went to stay with my brother and SIL.

Monday, more rain. We thought our chances of World's of Fun were slim to none so we hit Union Station. It didn't start well. It was nearly impossible to find b/c we were unfamiliar with the area and you couldn't see b/c rain was coming in sheets. Get there for brunch at the old diner and Mack spills hot chocolate in Mark's lap. Not good. We go to Crayola and Schuyler throws a fit b/c we didn't buy her anything. We had thought about going to Kaleidoscope but with the kids deteriorating attitudes, we didn't want to push our luck. Get to the car and find the rain has stopped. After a phone call we decide to chance it. I'm SO glad we did. It ended up being sunny the rest of the time. Hardly anyone was there b/c of the rain and the fact it was a Monday. So, from 1:30 or so until 6:30 we enjoyed the park. No lines. You could walk up to a ride and get on. Sometimes, they would just ask if you wanted to ride again! Schuyler enjoyed her first roller coasters, the Timberwolf and the Prowler, the 2 wooden ones. Mack was upset she couldn't try it but we found enough other rides to appease her. Eli loved the planes in camp snoopy. We were exhausted by the time we left!

Schuyler started school on Wed. She is excited to be back. Her teacher is wonderful and the kids seem to love him.

McKenzie has decided she wants to permanently change her name to Kenz. Kenzie would be okay but she prefers Kenz. We'll see how long this lasts = ) We decided to have her attend the Montessori for kindergarten, like we did with Schuyler. Her official first day is not until after labor day but she has already got her workbook and is SO excited!

Pictures I'm finally editting. Sprinkler fun...

They were helping me test the light before my senior session. Mack before a bday party.

As Schuyler would say, "looking sporty". Nice icecream bar crumbs around the mouth!

a vacay before the madness sets in

2009-08-13T08:46:00.002-05:00

We are going on a little vacay before the madness of school and activities becomes full blown. Off to World's of Fun and Coco Keys = ) Schuyler has been enjoying her week at home before school starts. It's also apparent just how busy they kept the kids at Husker kids. She has wanted to do something everyday. So, she has swam, went to the park and library, and today is bowling. She has found a love for playing card games. As of now, her favorite game is Kings in the Corner. This is good news for Mark and I since we both come from pitch and cribbage families = )

Mack had her 5 year physical. All in all, she received a good bill of health. We do need to take her to an optometrist to get her eyes checked.

We have received soccer schedules for both girls and it looks like Schuyler will play Saturdays (mainly a.m.) and Mack will play Sunday afternoons. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday will be dance and soccer, respectively.

Eli continues to enjoy riding his bicycle. The boy has got some serious legs! We have had quite a few incidents where he runs into the street. I tried to look at it as an opportunity to teach him. So, one night we walked down a house and crossed the street. Then, down another house and crossed. You get the idea. Nope, didn't work! Ugh!

Here is a picture of Schuyler and her fave Husker Kids counselor. The great thing about modern communication, you can still email and keep in touch = )

She's safe, she's safe....

2009-08-07T13:31:00.002-05:00

she beat you to the base, uh-huh! Just an old softball chant I thought was fitting = ) Last week marked the end of softball season. Schuyler had a good season. I think her favorite position at this point in time is 1st base. I have also been working with her on the side on pitching = ) Mack and Eli have got into the fun as well. Mack is working on throwing and hitting. Eli likes batting off the tee = )

Obviously, a lot has gone on since my last blog post! The girls also enjoyed vacaction bible school last week. There were some later nights which made for tired kids but they had a lot of fun. Here, you can see the fun! Look for Mack in the 2nd picture down on the very left hand side. The theme was crocodile dock and Eli thought the croc was pretty cool. He gave him some high fives and even a love = ) As a grand finale celebration, they rented star city shores, the Lincoln waterpark on Friday from 8:30-10.00. It was uncharacteristically chill for this time of year. We arrived promptly at 8:30. Mack was done at 9:10 and Schuyler was done 5 of so minutes later!

Schuyler's last day of Husker Kids is today. As a thank you, we brought in some breakfast pizza this week for the staff. Schuyler made me bring my camera to get some pics of her and her friends and camp counselors. Her favorite is David. Today, they were having a water fun day! She has had a good time and I have been so pleased with the program. She will miss all the activities!

This weekend will be busy. Schuyler is having a friend spend the night. Mack has a playdate Saturday and then bday party on Sunday. Throw in 2 photo sessions and that is one busy weekend = )

I've kept busy with lots of photo shoots and more to come!

images of summer

2009-07-16T12:50:00.002-05:00

The images below pretty much sum up how we spend our summers. Outdoors. There are a few things missing like...grilling, sprinklers, swimming, rollerblading, softball (and the various other sports)etc... but it gives the gist of what we do.

Alot of riding bikes, trikes, hot wheels, etc... Of course, fitting with her personality, Mack has to ride in style!!!

Playing in the grass. Or, in the case, playing with the grass = )

Good old sidewalk chalk fun!

I can't believe how fast summer goes. The girls are enjoying their second week of swim lessons. They have both improved so much and it's been nice to have them at the same time and not different times. Schuyler is swimming at a level 4 and Mack at a level 3. Schuyler was my child who was deathly afraid of the water when she was little so she has made great strides. Mack, on the other hand, took to the water immediately. I think Eli will be the same, beings he keeps saying I swim too and is not afraid to just jump in. As you can imagine, I keep a very close eye on him when we swim = )

Mark is playing in a golf tournament tomorrow.

I've come down with a summer cold and I'm trying to get rid of it!

Happy (belated) bday to our dog, Sadie. She doesn't ever get any blog love. We couldn't have asked for a better dog. She is getting some grays on her but she's still a pretty girl! Sadie was our first "baby" and then came the addition of our 3 kids. She's been there to protect every one of them and puts up with their rough housing. She's still a cuddler and takes advantantage of any opportunity to sneak into one of our beds = )

keep on trucking...

2009-07-10T13:57:00.002-05:00

That's what I feel like sometimes. Just keep moving forward, no time to stop. Move from one project to the next, both at work and home.

Mark and I have decided we are going to put our house on the market. Our target date is Aug 1st, so we'll see if we actually hit it. Last week, the girls went to Hastings to spend time with gma and gpa and one of their cousins. It allowed us to get work done and none of the kids had daycare so it was good timing. Eli spent 2 days with his 2nd cousin. I think it would be 2nd cousin? It's my cousin's son? Anyway, he had a good time. Mark and I took some days off together to make progress on the house. We prepped the yard and laid sod. The wallpaper in the basement that was beneath the chair rail is gone and we have paint waiting to go on. I have taken 5 1/2 bags to Goodwill and sold a tub worth of clothes and several toys. This weekend, we will put drywall up where the built-in fish tank used to be in the basement. Then, more decluttering!!!

The 4th was okay. I have to admit I missed my girls! Eli HATED the fireworks. Literally clung to me. So, I didn't spend any time outside, just watched a few on the TV.

Swimming lessons began this week for the girls. Every night of the week. Schuyler is probably the most exhausted every night from all the swimming she does during the day and at lessons! Tonight, we get to watch and see their accomplishments. Can anyone recommend some good shampoo/conditioner for swim hair? Schuyler's hair needs something!!

Eli had a dentist appt this week. I had the suspicion last week that his 2 year molars might be coming through b/c he was not himself and had quite a few poopies in his pull-up. Sure enough, they are slowly coming in! I still can't say that he likes the dentist and I'm glad it's her fingers getting the brunt of those teeth and not mine!!

Random images to go along with my "keep on trucking"...

she's armed and dangerous

2009-06-26T12:58:00.002-05:00

She's one mean girl with the squirt gun! We had soooo much fun celebrating Mack's bday. It was overcast but the rain held off, only a few sprinkles fell on us. The sprinklers were going, the squirt guns could not be filled up fast enough, and I'm pretty sure that all the girls enjoyed taking fire at yours truly with the water balloons = ) The ground was already completely saturated but a little extra water never hurt? I even found a Hannah Montanna cake pan which awarded me the title of "Best Mom", at least for the day!

We have enjoyed a lot of swimming this week! I took the kids to Irvingdale pool on Monday and grandma's yesterday. Schuyler already swims everyday and yesterday was her field trip to the outdoor pool. The kids are looking pretty tired.

Today was talent show day at Husker Kids and Schuyler decided to sign up and play her harmonica! I couldn't believe how many 2nd graders signed up!! I love this age, no inhabitions of what others think and there was definitely some great talent. The group performance was cute, too!

One more day...

2009-06-19T08:31:00.003-05:00

and Mack will be 5! She has been counting days since last week. At this age, whe will gain a small amount of independence as she begins kindergarten. And every year after, the indepence slowly increases. She was our father's day blessing 5 years ago, something I will never forget. I remember how proudly Mark held this small bundle of joy with little plump cheeks in his arms. She is growing in so many ways, physically, emotionally, and intellectually. She brings home artwork that is beautiful...usually of our family with flowers, butterflies, and sometimes we all have a crown or tiara...that's our Mack!

We will be celebrating by having a little party with 7 or so of her girl friends. There will be sprinklers, waterballoons, painting toes... I've got some Luau decorations. The only question mark is the cake. She's picked out the kind, chocolate devil's food. She wants Hannah Montana but I'm pretty sure they don't have a cake pan for her and I had a hard enough time free handing the Lion King!!! I'm sure I'll think of something.

Mark's bday was Wed but we didn't really celebrate b/c he helps coach Schuyler's softball team and they had practic. We had cake last night and I will take him out to dinner tonight while the 3 rowdies go to Papa's (thanks dad)!

Happy father's day to all the father's, grandfather's, to-be father's, etc...

My bday girl!!!

13 great grandkids and counting...

2009-06-12T14:55:00.002-05:00

Once upon a time, there was a man and woman who fell in love and had 5 kids. Times were not always easy for them as money could be tight at times but they raised these kids to be wonderful, loving adults. Just as their parents, these adults than married and had kids of their own, now making the man and woman proud grandparents. There were 11 of these grand children in total and family get togethers were full of laughter, love, giggling girls, some card playing and a little craziness. These grandkids followed the same pattern and eventually started creating families of their own, now making the man and woman great-grandparents. This leads us to today. There are currently 13 great-grandkids and I would guess this number will increase again someday. But the memories are there! I look at this picture and think how amazing life truly is. (Note - one child is not pitured here).

Happy early bday to my Gma!

Schuyler has been enjoying Husker Kids. They play a lot of sports, swim everyday, and do board/card games for free time in the a.m. In addition, she went bowling, had a cook out, and made a bandana. She is looking pretty tired!!

In addition to my Gma's bday, we are preparing for Mark's and Mack's bday next week! Mack is having an outdoor fun bday party at our house. We are hoping for some sunshine so we can have sprinklers, water balloon's etc... She will be turning 5. I remember this as being a milestone age for Schuyler and am sure it will be for Mack as well. She got to go on a mini field trip with 2 of her teachers to pick out flowers for their flower bed at school. She was feeling pretty special being one of the leaders = )

fun in the sun!

2009-06-02T13:51:00.002-05:00

Yep. That is pretty much how I would describe this weekend!! It started Friday with field trips, field day and end of year celebration. Mack enjoyed watching native american dancers at her field trip. Apparently, she wasn't as impressed with the length of the drive = ( Schuyler had some summer fun with all the different field day activities... bubbles, chalk, face painting, art, soccer game, relays, parachute, bean bag toss, and let's not forget the finale of water balloons = ) We took a friend of Mack's and a friend of Schuyler (who happen to be sisters) to the end of year celebration. They had a good time. Oh, and let's not forget that Eli planted a big old fat kiss on one of his classmates. She was stunned to say the least. Where is that camera when you need it.

The girls golf outing was certainly fun!! The first few holes were a little rusty but it got better with time. Mark had taken the kids to our friends cabin and they spent the night Saturday. It's so weird to be in my house with out anyone!! I watched the 2nd Harry Potter movie, did some vacumming and dishes! I joined them on Sunday. Next time, I'll remember sunscreen on my forehead!

Mackie jumping off the doc...

Look at the bottom lip... You would think the poor boy didn't have any fun (but he did)! Maybe he doesn't like his girly life vest = )

This one, she's just plain crazy = ) (Did you take note of her swimsuit. It's yellow with white pokla dotes). Sing along, "She wore an itsy bitsy, teeny weeny, yellow polka dot bikini". One of my friend's gave it to her. Thanks P.

his new summer haircut

2009-05-29T08:13:00.002-05:00

I have kept Eli's hair long for multiple reaons. I like the shaggy boy haircuts. I like his uncontrolled waves and how it always seemed to curl right above his ear. His hair is really beautiful. It figures the boy would get the best hair out of all my kids. But the main reason I have never wanted to cut it is because I knew. I knew it would make him look older. The moment those clippers came out and the shag was gone it happened. Him looking older. Check out my guy in his new summer do. I still had to keep some of the length on top!

We enjoyed our quick trip down to KC for Nora's baptism over Memorial Day weekend. The kids had a good time at the hotel and pool and enjoyed playing with all the other nieces and nephews (11 kids in all ranging from 8 to 4 months).

This week has been busy with softball practice, Sheridan bike rodeo, field trip for Mack, field day for Schuyler and end of year celebration for the Montessori. Tomorrow, Mark will golf in the a.m. and I will play my first round in the afternoon. Should be an interesting one!!

I can't believe Schuyler is almost done with first grade. Next Thursday is there last day!!

This is what Mark and I spend half our time doing, trying to prevent our son from getting hurt. Why would you climb a wood fence? I understand the chain link fence but seriously? Look at those calf muscles.

My dancers

2009-05-22T13:17:00.002-05:00

The girls had a great recital last weekend! It was so much fun to watch them on stage. They had the most giant smiles I have ever seen and you could tell they were loving every minute of it!

Volleyball is now done, too! She enjoyed her first experience and ofcourse the little medal she got = )

This week has been a week of playdates. Schuyler is making a good little friend with one of her soccer buddies and she only lives 2 blocks away! I'm so happy for her. We walked home Monday from school and she stayed with us until 7:00 and then we walked her home. Yesterday, they had the Sheridan skate party and her friend's mom took them! Tonight is Mack's turn. She is going to miss her best friend's bday party tomorrow so they are picking her up from school, going out to dinner, and then maybe nails/toenails. Right up Mack's alley!

Schuyler did start softball. The coach seems very good. Mark is going to be the assistant coach. I think he'll have a blast doing it!!

Eli is so close to being potty trained. He usually takes himself or will tell me and he even does #2! Wooo hoo!

I don't think I've shared any McKenzisms lately so here is one that will make you laugh. I have been reading the Harry Potter series (I know, most of you finished those a long time ago). Anyway, I was reading and McKenzie was trying to get my attention. She finally got frustrated and said, "Mom, would you just put down Harrypotimus for a minute?!"

Dance pics...

Schuyler is on the far right...

Find Mack. That's her in the front on the right.

Sisterness...

One more of Mack b/c it was her first year = )

Spring Soccer is done

2009-05-12T10:17:00.003-05:00

I hope all you mommy's out there had a good Mother's Day! I know I did = ) Mark's parents came to watch Schuyler's last soccer game and then we went out to eat for Mother's day at Red Lobster. On Sunday, the kids woke up and started making me more pictures, in addition to the ones they had already made. Best of all, I got the most wonderful card! It was a BIG card. The outside said You're an EXTRAordinary mom so we go you and EXTRA large card. Then, in the inside in big block letters it said "We Love You". Then, it said in little letters, "Hmmm, guess it wasn't big enough". Mark filled the entire card with writing. Each child had a section and then a section from all 3, thanking me for things I do, or with warm fuzzies. For instance, Eli's said, "Thank you for rocking me every night, thank you for taking time out of your schedule to meet with me and Ms. Denie, I love that I was your mother's day surprise, etc...". I had tears rolling down my face. Such a thoughtfula and creative gift. The thing I noticed was that little things make a big difference. Like, letting the kids like the cookie batter from the bowl or being able to pick Schuyler up from school every day.

Oh, I can't forget my great garage sale find. A new desk for Schuyler. I took before pics and will take after pics when it's complete. It's sanded and has a fresh coat of white paint for the chair and desk. The drawers will be painted yellow with new white pulls and the chair needs a new cover. Trash to treasure = )

Here's Schuyler's soccer team. What a great bunch of girls! Ignore the paisty white coach in the green shirt!

a bday party, a trip to the ER...

2009-05-08T10:00:00.002-05:00

We are busy, busy, and more busy!

Last week was picture day at the dance studio! I have to admit that picture day brings out some of the worst in me. Trying to get 2 girls in costume with hair and make-up at the same time is a bit challenging. I kept finding myself saying, "Don't touch your hair. Don't touch your lips. Don't bounce around. Etc..." I usually need a mommy time out after the whole ordeal (or at least a glass of wine) = ) We actually got them back early. Mack is VERY disappointed in her group image. The photographer kept saying smile with your teeth. So, she has an unnatural look. It's not as bad as she makes it out to be. Her individual image is great. I told her mommy would take some more before the recital = )

Schuyler came down with a bad case of the stomach flu. She got sick several times Thursday night and once Friday a.m. She appeared to be recovering just fine, not eating a lot but that is usually expected. So, when her soccer game rolled around on Saturday a.m. we thought she could take it easy and play some. She played a little goal and a little field, which was not a smart idea on my part, and I eventually pulled her from the game. She went home and napped for an hour or so. Again, she ate some and appeared to be fine and very excited for the friend rollerskating party. I could tell she wasn't herself, kept coming to sit and rest, didn't want cupcake or icecream. Again, I thought she was probably a little week. Well, 20 minutes left in the party and Mark and I see her making an exit from the rink. It's funny how we both started heading towards her. Mark got there just in time as got sick and was able to hold her since she had her rollerblades on. She was so sad and started crying. I felt SOOO bad for her. Her friends were so concerned. That night she continued to keep getting sick. She couldn't keep down Motrin for her fever and any sip of water she took came immediately back up. Same thing Sunday a.m. We called Ask A Nurse and they suggested we bring her in b/c she was showing signs of dehydration, dry mouth and sunken eyes. She was such a little trooper. She was released in the afternoon with a prescription for Zofran. She went back to school Wed and is pretty much back to normal = )

Eli is h - e - double hockey sticks on wheels when it comes to him and his bike. I never knew a toddler could go so fast on a bicycle. Either Mark or I have to follow as he has not mastered turning around so he will just keep peddling straight!! The funny thing is he does not like the bike trailer. My dad took the girls the LSE district finals of soccer so we thought we spend some quality time with Eli on a bike ride. I have never heard more complaints. Too fast, too bumpy, etc...

Mack made a beautiful MOM poster for me at school. I need to take a picture. She was so proud of her bubble letters that she colored in with oil pastels.

Schuyler's enjoying a field trip with her first grade class at the Omaha zoo and her last soccer game of the season is tomorrow = )

Oh, the major reason for posting... To give my aunt and family a sneak peak of some images I took. Thank you for all your patience!! I'm going to try and finish them this weekend = )

Schuyler's last soccer game is this weekend = )

Happy 7th!!

2009-04-27T14:47:00.002-05:00

My first born is 7! Every year...

*she is less reliant on me and more independent
*she grows taller and will soon pass her mother in height
*she looks less like a little kid and more like a big kid
*she astounds me with her knowledge

I still relish the moments she wants held and cuddled, the times she wants to curl up on my lap with a book, the times when she wants to hold my hand as we walk to the car after school, and the times when she just wants "mommy time". I know these moments are becoming more limited with every passing day.

This is her. Her look. Her eyes. I want to permanently implant this picture in my head. We love you birthday girl!

We did the family celebration this weekend. Tonight, just the 5 of us. This weekend, the friend celebration. Schuyler wanted a Lion King cake. This was my most challenging cake ever. I'm just thankful it resemebled a lion. When I first started, it was questionable.

We had conferrences this past week for Eli and Mack. Mack in on the verge of some big things. She has really taken off in the classroom. I had a suspicion this was happening b/c she has been showing me some of her work and has been extremely proud of it. She couldn't wait for us to got to conferences. She spends a lot of her time doing math and sound work. She has also matured quite a bit since last fall.

Eli also continues to make progress. He is the policeman of the toddler room and lets the teacher's now when something is not right. However, there is no one to police him as he still needs reminders to not climb on furniture.

Happy Birthday Dad!

2009-04-20T07:32:00.002-05:00

We celebrated Dad's bday last night, a day early, with a grill out of hotdogs and hamburgers over at his place. The kids help me make an apple spice cake for dessert. And, with some convincing, I took the camera for a very mini photoshoot in hopes of getting dad with my kids. It took some doing but I finally got 1 = )

Happy Bday Dad! We are so thankful to have a gracious, loving father like you. You are always there for us and the grandkids. Patient, always giving, and never expecting anything in return.

We finally had a beautiful day for Schuyler's soccer game = ) The girls are improving every practice and game! Schuyler played very well scoring 2 goals. I'm amazed as her foot skills continue to develop. I was very disappointed in the type of play by the other team. Being physical is somewhat expected. However, these girls were blatantly pushing and pulling shirts. For example, Schuyler was dribbling towards the goal and a girl came up and pushed her straight in the back. She made NO attempt for the ball. Schuyler went flying face forward. This was just one of the many incidents. The refs started to take notice and made appropriate calls. We were awarded several penalty kicks. I don't think the girls had a clue what was going on. Schuyler got to take one (she had earned it from all the pushing she took)! She didn't score but sure gave it a good shot for her first penalty kick ever. It's just frustrating that coaches are teaching this at this young age. The shirt pulling will happen at a high school level. But, at this age, the kids need to learn the fundamentals.

After the game, Schuyler and daddy caught a little bit of the spring game = )

I have to mention one cute thing about Eli. Every night, we have to do Itsy Bitsy Spider and Little Bunny Foo Foo. He giggles wich such delight everytime!

when a child hurts, the parent hurts...

2009-04-17T14:07:00.002-05:00

I will say that I continue to learn the true meaning that when a child hurts, the parent hurts along with the child. You may remember me saying that Schuyler has been struggling with the friends who are not being good friends at school. Unfortunately, it came to a head this week. When I picked her up from school on Wednesday I noticed a small chunk of hair barely attached. I asked her what happened and she said *Mary pulled her hair. I asked her to describe the whole situation. Apparently, it occurred on playground at recess. Schuyler wanted to play with Mary and **Sarah, but Mary said no; she could not play with Sarah. Schuyler responded that it was not Mary’s choice but Sarah’s. Then, Mary pulled her hair! I was able to confront all parties, Mary, Mary’s father, and Schuyler away from school. I still didn’t get a clear picture of the incident but there was no denying that hair was pulled.

* and ** - names have been changed.

Mark and I have talked to her and her teacher has had a one on one with her, letting her know that this person is not being a “good” friend and there is a difference between tattling and telling a teacher when there is something wrong i.e. she is getting hurt! We are proud of her for being the “better” person by ignoring and not retaliating but we want her to stand up for herself. She did come home with an apology note from Mary the other day = ) I really hope these incidents stop.

Mack got her dance costume the other day and she is beyond excited! We went to get her bag from the classroom and the teacher pulled me aside to tell me a funny story. She said, “If you want a good laugh, put McKenzie in a room with a mirror, her costume, and music. Let her put her costume on all by herself. Then, she will proceed to dance around the room, checking herself out every so often in the mirror. One time she went right up to the mirror, did a little pose and said, “I look SO BEAUTIFUL!” Now, is that Mack or what!?!

I’m thinking spring is here to stay! That makes me happy = )

Mack and her BFF.

It's been 10 days since...

2009-04-06T09:43:00.005-05:00

I last blogged! Oh my! So much can happen in a day let alone a week!

Rewind back to the weekend before last. Schuyler's soccer game was only slightly better (in terms of play). Once again no subs and it was 26 degrees with a wind chill of 10. I understand soccer is played in less than ideal conditions. I remember the sleet, the rain, the chilly temperatures from the days when I played. But, I was older, like high school. Poor girls! They were troopers. This weekend's game was much better. We say some passing, control of the ball, and a general idea of positions! I worked with Schuyler on how to do a goalie kick and she had a HUGE one in the game. Way past midfield and over everyone's head = ) A final score of 3-2, which is their first win in the rec league = )

Poor Eli got another bruiser. Mack tried to use his face as a soccer ball. Okay, it wasn't that bad but she did kick him in the eye. Apparently, she was kicking a balloon on the ground and Eli went for it. Would you know it happens when I step out of the room for one second to use the bathroom. Seriously, when can a mother pee in peace? The week before we sent Eli to school with a limp. Now we send him with a black and blue eye!

As I have mentioned, Schuyler has been struggling with the whole friend thing, girls being caddy, etc... So, it was the perfect time for her to reunite with her best bud from the Montessori for a playdate. It was so good to see her laughing and having such a good time!

It was a week for playdates b/c Mack had her best friend come over on Friday. I'll try and post pictures later this week b/c those 2 are so cute together!! Nothing but smiles and giggles.

Schuyler had her first overnight birthday party as well as her first volleyball game. Schuyler has spent the night with family and once with our neighbor across the street. They had most of the girls in her first grade class. That is one brave (or insane) mom =) I didn't see the volleyball game as I thought it would be a better choise to get the younger two some naps before the easter egg hunt. In Schuyler's words, "It's not really like a vollegball game. I wish it was more sporty!" In her mind, she's ready to go spike the ball. Silly girl!

The Easter Egg Hunt was indoors due to winds. I went with Mack and Eli, which from the sounds of it was the more relaxed egg hunt. Schuyler's group K - 4th grade, sounded very intense with people pushing and leaping over chairs. The 3-4 year olds were supposed to be in a different area than the 2 and under but since there were hardly any 2 and unders, they invited her to join us. (Which is good b/c then I didn't have to send her by herself.) Eli's age is so fun to watch. It's not a contest about how many eggs you can stuff in your basket, but more a curiousity of what are these eggs in what is inside them. Eli would pick one up, open it, examine it and once he figured out it was candy, try and get the wrapper off. I had to encourge him to find more eggs = )

One last word of caution. NEVER stick a 3 inch disk into a regular size disk slot on your computer. Further more, after the realization that you can not get it out, do not stick a regular size disk in with it. Then, both will become stuck!! I'm not going to point fingers at the guilty party since that person already feels bad. I missed my IMac dearly but it is now home, safely and soundly where it should be = )

Back to the basics of capturing my kids...

I LOVE sunflare. Wanted some muted colors with this one.

See, we practice safely at all times by encouraging the kids to where helmuts while swinging = ) Notice the little scrach on his eye!

A little chalk fun!

Tiny Dancer

2009-03-27T07:57:00.002-05:00

That's what I think of when I look at these pictures. Mack absolutely adores her dance class. She practices her routine for us. She teaches us what a saw-shay is (I have no clue how to spell that but you get the idea). Schuyler got her costume last week and Mack did not. In her words, "This is not fair to me and not fair to the friends in my class. They (the costumes) should all get here at the same time".

Schuyler had her first soccer game of the season last week. I think "learning experience" would sum it up! First time on the big field, we've added 3 new girls to the team, and we had no subs. The team we played had definitely played before, not to mention when they would sub, the entire team would come out and a fresh bunch of players would enter the field. Schuyler has decided she wants to learn to play goalie. So, second half, she went in. I had no idea what expect. Well, she was a little animal. Diving on the ball even if a player was about to kick it. I think a mouth guard might be a good investment = ) Mack has been tagging along to practice and sits on the bench to watch. After the team does their warm-up run, Mackie does her run. She joins us for toe touches and does her own dribbling drills. It will be interesting to see how she responds in the fall when she's on her own team. One of Schuyler's teammates has a little sister the same age as Mack so they will be on a team together.

Oh, I will get schedules to everyone. After this weekends game, they will be divisionalized and then I will know when they actually play = )

Eli took a fall from the ladder of the bunkbeds last week. He was limping around up until a day or two ago. Mark and I are pretty sure he sprang his ankle.

I took a day of PTO on Tuesday and spent it with the kids. We rearranged both Eli's room and the girls' room. The new furniture arrangment makes the rooms appear more spacious. Eli's got a good spring cleaning, going through old clothes, etc... Now, for the girls' room.

Are you looking for someplace a little different to eat? Maybe some place eclectic with some flair? Mark and I ate at South Chargrill this week and the food was great and reasonably priced. Check out their website.

Bunny hop anyone?

Waiting her turn...

I LOVE March Madness!

2009-03-20T07:58:00.003-05:00

Anyone out there with me? As long as Mark and I have known each other, we have always completed brackets and had some kind of bet. Now, I have a work bracket and one just for fun. I don't really have a favorite team, although I do have to say I like Duke basketball. So, it will be a weekend of basketball watching, hopefully some good games, a few upsets, and maybe a beer at the end of the day.

Schuyler has her first soccer game tomorrow. She should get a lot of playing time as 2 of the players are gone leaving us with one sub.

School conferences were last night. Schuyler continue to excel in all her studies and enjoys all aspects of school. I think her biggest challenge is finding that good group of friends. Unfortnately, it seems girls start being caddy at a young age. I'm proud of Schuyler b/c she's making good choices, not participating in this stuff, but then she feels excluded. Her personality is also to seek just a few good friends, so she really gets her feeling hurt when those 1 or 2 girls don't include her.

Today, Mark and I are going to watch her music class as they have a performance. We will both join her for luch afterwards. I had an assembly line going this a.m. as I made 5 pb and jelly sandwiches = )

It's been a while since I shared some of the boy. Going back to my roots and just trying to capture the kids as they are now. Documenting who they are and what they like to do.

Climbing...

Jumping... (love the movement blur of his foot)!

Hanging!

Yes, he is a drooly mess! Still working on toning those muscles in his mouth!

Happy Friday the 13th!

2009-03-13T11:57:00.002-05:00

Who said Friday the 13th was bad?! It's food day at work, jeans day, and pay day! And, I get date night with my husband, no kids!! We're going out to eat. Not sure where yet but I'm sure we'll find some place yummy!

Eli had his 6 month review with LPS. I was hoping he might be dismissed/discharged (not sure of the correct terminology) but it appears we will continue with meetings. It is truly amazing what he has achieved when we look back at notes from the beginning. He had approximately 5 words. He was frustrated and was banging his head on the floor (what ever the floor would be). Even just a month or 2 ago he was biting himself in frustration sometimes. Fast forward to today. He has a multitude of words. They were impressed that he could use past tense correctly, such as went as well as possesive, such as Eli's. He has the hard 'k' sound such as the sound in his sister's name, Skye. He uses 2-3 phrases and has an extended vocabularly, like "trouble". That's one of his new sayings for his sister. "Mackie in trouble". We will work with him to continue to use 2-3 phrases.

Schuyler has completed her cheer club at school with a little preformance yesterday, along with the drama club. It was nice to watch. Mack has pretty much picked up the whole cheers just by watching her big sis! Next week soccer will begin. I'm hoping it warms up as I'm dreading cold games and practices.

Mack has been learning a lot at school. I've noticed her writing A LOT more. She seems to pick things up very quickly. Completely opposite of Schuyler who is very methodical. She's very excited about entering kindergarten in the fall. So much, that she can't wait for kindergarten shots and she does not like shots!

Guess what? I get to be godmother to my niece. I'm so honored!!

Proud cousin!

Followed by proud grandma.

One of Mack b/c she loves the camera and the camera usually loves her back = )

a glimpse of spring

2009-03-06T08:13:00.003-06:00

Wow! The weather has been so nice these past 2 days. I'm not sure what the high was yesterday but it had to be pushing record temps. We will enjoy our last nice day as the temp is forecasted to drop back into the 30s with a possibility of another cold front next week = ( Mark even fit 9 holes of golf in = )

The bathroom is slowly progressing. I painted on Wed afternoon. It was originally a darker shade of tan and we are sticking with a tan tone but lightening it up some. It's official name is Cincinatian Hotel Hannaford. I wonder who is responsible for naming paint colors?

Eli is a tricycle fool! He is peddling up and down the sidewalks trying to keep up with his sisters on their bikes. Actually, he is getting close to figuring the little bike out. Only problem, it's pink. Can you spray paint a bike? He has also learned to say his name. It sounds more like E-I then Eli. He also attemps Riese, which sounds like Wiese. He's also becoming possessive of his toys. "EI's motorcycle".

We are trying to figure out summer care for Schuyler. We are looking into a couple of options but still not sure. I'd LOVE to know any recommendations = ) Next year I think we will get a Nanny.

the deafening sound of a tile cutter ...

2009-02-23T14:22:00.002-06:00

is ringing in my ears and I wasn't even the one using it! Yes, the master bathroom has been gutted and the new tile floor is going in. We uncovered some moldy, rotted drywall that was hiding behind the floor board from a leaky toilet sometime in the past 40 years so that will have to be removed. But, progress is continuing nicely!

Mark and I have watched 2 movies in the past 2 weeks. We NEVER watch movies. They are far from newly released but we enjoyed them none the less. "Hitch" and "Fools Love". Both romantic comedies.

Eli is obssessed about riding his "bike", or in other words his trike. Even though it's been 30s, we've been outside. Of course then we have lots of sobs when it's time to come in.

I have to leave my cousin some blog love. Stop over and check out her blog. She is an amazingly talented artist and creates the most beautiful things with paper, buttons, ribbon, etc...

I'll close with a request. Our good friend's recently had their first child, a boy named Elijah James (just like our son= ). They have learned that he has a medium to large size hole in his heart, or VSD. The hole will close with either a surgery or by itself as he grows and they will not know for a couple of months which it will be. While he is fine now, he can be susceptible to bacteria. This is the 2nd family close to us that has been impacted by this. So, while he is not in grave danger, we ask you to send some prayers there way. It certainly is tough when experiencing parenthood for the first time along with sleep deprivation, hormones, etc... and then to have news like this on top. If you aren't the praying type, just send some positive vibes there way. I know they would appreciate it!

Here are a few pics from Schuyler's Friendship Party at school.

Happy Vday - early

2009-02-13T22:07:00.002-06:00

An early happy vday to all of you! Nothing like 8 or so inches of snow! That's okay with me. I got to spend the day with my kiddos and did some major baking. Homemade runza for dinner, some peanut butter-chocolate chip cookies for desert. And, we went outside for some snow angels and snow fun in the back yard. The cleaning is still waiting for me. However, the girls did get their room back into respectable shape.

Look what is happening to my oldest daughter. She's growing up. Right before my eyes. She's challenging us... finding her boundaries. I'm sure this will continue for the next 15 years or so. Moments of sweetness, like reading to her brother, helping him up when he falls in the snow and giving him pushes on the sled. Then, there are moments where she seems so ungrateful. "I don't have to". "Fine"! Gestures where she plugs her ears when we talk, stomps out of the room. Where, oh where, is my instruction book!

Demolition begins on our Master bathroom. Actually, there is nothing "master" about it. It's barely big enough for the toilet and sink. However, it needs to be done and we'll be one step closer to getting our house on the market, if we so choose.

Miss Nora

2009-02-10T07:46:00.003-06:00

Why is it after a vacation you need another day to recoup? Great Wolf Lodge was a blast. The girls tried everything... the regular waterslides and the raft waterslides. Eli was upset he couldn't go on some of the bigger slides but enjoyed the smaller ones. Personally, one day was plenty for me and I'm glad we were staying at a different hotel Saturday night. I have to say I was very impressed with the lifeguards... very attentive. The beds on the otherhand, all sagged to the middle. Saturday, we stayed at the Marriot in the Plaza, which was just minutes from my bro's house. The room had recently been remodeled and was beautiful. However, the pool, which was not yet remodeled, had much to be desired. There was no heat in the pool room or in the pool itself. They could adjust the pool temperature (it would take 2-3 hours) but not the room temp. The hot tub felt like what the pool should feel like. But, the kids enjoyed it anyway and we warmed up with steaming hot baths and showers = ) So many good eats in KC as well... Arthur Bryant's and Cheesecake factory...YUM!

I did NOT take any pics of Great Wolf Lodge. I didn't want the added stress of worrying about a camera. Worrying about 3 kids is enough and I was there to have fun. However, I did get some pics of Nora =)

Eli has been pretening to ride motorcycles around the house. He uses just about anything... my tripod, foldable kids chairs, etc... So, when we spotted a little one at Target for $20, we knew he had to have it. Plus, he kind of gets the shaft with his bday just after xmas. He LOVES it! He was helping daddy put it together last night.

Valentine's day is coming and we have already begun to make our homemade vday cards all 65+ of them. Eli has absolutely no interest in them! I think his sister's will pick up the slack for him = )

And, what you have all been waiting for, 'lil Miss Nora!

This is my fave but I did a horrible job of editting the outlet in the lower right hand corner. I'll have to redo that!!

I got a little carried away with this one and her face got too light. I'll have to fix that, too!

a little vacay

2009-02-03T13:27:00.002-06:00

Well, the family and I are taking a little vacation this weekend. We are going to KC to see my sweet little niece, and of course vist my bro and SIL. I will be doing her pictures as well = ) While there, we're going to the Great Wolf Lodge. I'm excited! I'm already starting to make the to-do list of all the things we need to pack! Seems like so much for such a small trip!

Schuyler got her hair cut last week. She wanted to look like Kit Kittredge from American Girl. So, she has a cute little bob and we modernized it by inverting it. She loves it and gets so many compliments. It makes her look older, too. Schuyler also experienced her first roller skating party. The last time I left her at a Birthday party, she broke her arm at Lost in Fun. So, as you can imagine, I was very hesitant to leave her and ended up staying in watching. She took a lot of falls to start with but by the end, she was steadily making her way around the rink.

The potty training continues. I'm not sure I'm set on doing this. Every night I'm doing a load of wash! We'll see!

Here's a few pics from the Shirette Kiddie Clinic.

Here is Nora!!

2009-01-28T07:40:00.003-06:00

Image sent from my bro = ) Isn't she just the sweetest. I see a lot of her mommy in her.

And, on the potty training front, Eli had a MAJOR break through last night. He went poopie on the big potty. Go Eli!

I'm an auntie...again!

2009-01-27T09:32:00.002-06:00

BIG news!! My brother and SIL had a baby girl last night around 9:05 p.m. Her name is Nora Taylor and she weighed in at 7 lbs 5 oz and 20 1/2 in long. Meghan ended up having a C-section but she is doing fine and recovering. Nora is doing fine as well. This is their first child and I'm so excited for them. I can't wait to see my brother as a father! I can't wait to meet my niece and hold her. I'm envisioning her with a head full of dark hair and beautiful hazel eyes, similar to her mommy's. Well see if I'm right! Now, I need my bro to email a pic!!

Speaking of being an aunt, can you believe I'm an aunt to the beautiful young lady below, who will be a HS SENIOR next year! Sheesh. Where does the time go? I've finally had some time to go through some of the family pics from Thanksgiving.

Speaking of seniors, I'm starting to expand my horizons and break into the HS senior market. I'm looking for a few representatives for next year's senior class so if you know of someone, please send them my way. I'll put some info on my business blog, link to the right. It will include a reduced session fee with some freebies = )

Family news... Schuyler can play the harmonica!! They learned it in music class and she is surprisingly good. Not near as screechy as the violin was! Parent visitation was last week and it was so fun to watch the girls perform. We got a sneak peak of the costumes as well. Schuyler's is very simple. Black capris with dance written down the leg with a tank top, in their choice of color, black, white or pink, with dance written on it. Schuyler chose the white. I love her teacher's philosophy. Her mother appreciated costumes that kids could wear again or for everyday where and now that she is a mother, she has adopted this approach for her classes!! Mack LOVES hers. It's bright pink with black and kind of hard to explain!

Eli officially started potty training yesterday. I have decided that little boy briefs and boxer briefs are just the cutest thing = ) He is pretty cute in them. He has also informed us of his male genitalia by saying "my penis"!

There is a yucky flu bug, more like flu monster, that made it's way through our house 2 weeks ago. Diarrhea and stomach flu. Schuyler was the only one spared! Our house smelled very medicinal for a couple of days!

Oh, I almost forgot about the Shirette kiddie clinic. The girls had SO much fun. They did an awesome job performing at half time. Schuyler was center court! Mack was in the front row, right in front of me! Made for a great photo op!

brrrr, baby, it's cold outside

2009-01-14T07:51:00.002-06:00

The cold winds are a blowin' here in good ole NE! We have been using the wood burning stove at nights. I LOVE that it heats the whole basement. Last night I was bone chilling cold and could not get warm. Don't laugh... I slept in long pants, a long sleeve t-shrit with a short sleeve t-shirt over it and the kicker... long athletic socks pulled up to my knees! I had to dig to the bottom of my drawer to find those!

Eli had a great bday! It's very evident that he is more interested in frosting then cake! E had to take his "sheen" for a couple of spins. He's not quite sure of the gas - it's a very stop and go ride!

He also had his 2 yr doctor appt AND 1st dentist appt on the same day. Way to go mom! His teeth look good and he is a healthy two year old! The speech concerns we had are completely gone.

The girls just found out their songs for their dance recital in May. Schuyler's is "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" and Mackie can't remember the name of her's but she said "it's too hard for me to sing". She's ecstatic about the whole idea of a recital! I'm the interim, we signed them up for Shirette Dance clinic that the Southeast High School dance squad puts on. They will perform a dance at the basketball half-time.

I sentiment Mack's feelings...

my babe is now a terrible 2

2009-01-06T10:43:00.002-06:00

Guess whose birthday is today? Mr. Eli. My babe is now 2!! Where have the last 2 years gone? He has brought us balance in a house that was once full of estrogen. We delight in his mischevious grin and boyish ways. He is a handsome little devil with his tow-head blond hair and big blue eyes. He's a momma's boy and though at times it would be nice not to have someone glued to my side or right under foot, I enjoy our bond. The potty training will begin before I know it and the diapers will be gone. Such bitter sweet moments.

We got him just one gift for his birthday. It's a motorized John Deere vehicle with front loader and trailer. Mark stayed up late and put it together so it was waiting for him in the living room with a bow. I wasn't there to see his reaction but Mark said his eyes got really big and he said "my sheen"? (meaning my machine).

Eli and I spent quality time together last week as Mark left for the Gator Bowl and the girls went to MO to see their cousins. I finally was able to paint my accent wall that I have been wanting to do for ages. Now, if I can get Mark to hang my shelf I'm sure I can find something to put on it!

Mark had a rough time getting back to Lincoln. Multiple delays, rerouted flights, and the wait for de-icing. Instead of 4:30 pm it was 12:30 am! Luckily, he has a great father-in-law who was able to pick him up from the airport= )

Mack missed her dad a lot. There were tears the first night but we found one of daddy's worn shirts from the laundry hamper. I said to her, "Here, smell it. It smells like daddy." With her big pout, she replied "It does smell like daddy". Pretty cute! She cuddled it at nights and it made the trip down to MO!

Oh, Cindy that you for your comments. Hope you had a good xmas and happy new year, too!

Eli let me snap a few shots, not many, while the gang was gone. Hat is one of my mother's creations =)

Christmas Reflections 2008

2008-12-30T08:15:00.002-06:00

Where does the time go? Track back a couple of weeks ago to our Santa visit. Mr. Eli who was all talk about going to see Santa would not go near the man. Not even with me. So, he watched as his sister's took turns on Santa's lap. Mack had the cutest little grin on her face but for the life of her could not think of a single thing she wanted. She kept tapping her cheek with her index finger saying "ummm. Ummmmm." It's not often you see the girl speechless! Schuyler had a variety things on her list and wasn't afraid to share. Really, when you think about it, Santa is a double standard. Here we are as parents, warning our children about strangers. Don't talk to strangers, don't take food from strangers, don't go with strangers, etc... But, here, go sit on this white-bearded man's lap and tell him what you want for Christmas, even though he is a complete stranger. It's no wonder kids are hesitant, they're just doing what we tell them =)

Okay, reflections from Christmas. I enjoyed the comfort of Oyster Stew on Xmas Eve at my father's house. I'm also happy to report that both my girls tried some. Mackie drank the broth and did not attempt an oyster. Schuyler, however, attempted to eat the oyster although she made a terrible face and spit it out. She also enjoyed the broth. My kids will eat oyster stew, eventually = ) We ended the night with a few games of Pokino.

I LOVE that my kids are learning to play cards. They also were taught several new games at Aunt Mitch and Uncle Jim's. Schuyler is really into it playing war, memory, go fish, UNO, etc... I think I'll be able to make her into a pitch and cribbage player someday.

Not only did they enjoy cards on the farm, but also 4 wheeler rides and they even hooked up a sled to the 4 wheeler. Eli could be found climbing into the tractor and pretending to drive and jumping in the back of the truck.

Reflections of the kids...

Eli - almost 2, is 100% boy. Nothing is too tall to climb and the greater the challenge, the more likely he is to try. He is beginning potty training and has had nightly successes on the "big" potty. His new favorite toy is a motorcyle, which much to my dismay does not have an off or volume button. He calls it his "vroom, vroom". This is followed closely by his new workbench and 3 drills. I guess a man can never have enough drills! His favorite book is Brown Bear and he still must have his blanket for bed or nap.

Mack - age 4 1/2, is our "girly" girl. She loves all things beautiful. Pink is her favorite color. She loves her American Girl doll, Felicity, and enjoys dressing her in all the new doll clothes she got for xmas. She also is fascinated by Tinkerbell. Mack still speaks some "McKenzism" and we are often humored by her words. She can make her bed beautifully and is surprisingly very good at cleaning up. Her smile can melt us.

Schuyler - age 6 1/2, is our "sporty" girl. She is very gifted at writing stories and illustrating them. On occassion, she can be absentminded, but don't let this fool you. To this day, you can still constantly see those wheels turning, just as she did when she was a child with her serious face. Unfortunately, Santa didn't bring her 2 front teeth for xmas so she is still a toothless wonder. She is ready for sports to begin and has picked her favorite teams for the bowl games.

A couple snap shots from the holidays...

xmas cookies, shirley temples, and other holiday cheer

2008-12-17T14:25:00.003-06:00

Yes, yes, I know. My very, poor neglected blog. Where have I been you wonder? Xmas shopping, proofing pictures, creating xmas cards, proofing pictures, taking pictures, proofing pictures... you get the picture.

So, I am FINALLY wrapping up all my photography sessions. I have only one left, a sweet newborn =0 That means you'll probably be hearing/seeing more from me.

We started our xmas cookie baking this weekend with some buried cherry chocolate cookies. I had left the room very briefly to use the restroom and return to find Mr. Eli up on the counter eating the marachino cherries, one by one with a little red juice running down his chin. He was on #3 at least and NOT very happy when I took them away. We finished the cookies and used the excees cherry juice for some shirley temple drinks = )

We resumed cookie baking on Monday evening with some sugar cookies. This was my first year with all 3 kids helping. Lets just say we'll be using a different approach next year. I thought it would be fun for the kids to cut out their own cookies. Well, the bickerin first started over who got which cookie cutter (the angel was apparently a hot commodity). I explained you could actually remove the cutter after you had imprinted it on the dough. Well, then they all wanted to stamp in the middle and go all at one time. So, we got a system in place and I thought things would be smooth sailing. Not so, Eli then starts randomly stampting, including places where the girls had already created cutouts. Now there are tears! Eli is removed from the table to do a different activity with dad. Between the girls sneaking cookie dough bites, it goes fairly well. They used 1 3/4 bottles for sprinkles. I'm still not sure how much actually got on the cookies and how much is still on my floor!

The kids had their church xmas program this past Sunday. Our girls are complete hams! Mack was sitting on stage with her legs all crossed. They sang a jump for joy song. They were actually jumping on the risers. Personally, I'm not sure that's the best idea for 3 and 4 year olds but since I'm not the organizer, I'll keep my comments quiet (well, relatively). Schuyler was next to one of her best friends and took any free moment to enthusiastically wave at us in the audience. They did a good job.

On a side note, did you know there is such thing as candy cane milk? Our kids love it. That's usually their night time treat and mine is egg nog with a little holiday cheer = )

We go to visit Santa tomorrow. I'm excited!

Sanna

2008-12-01T14:02:00.002-06:00

"Sanna" is Eli's word for Santa, story to come... We tried to do some xmas shopping on Saturday. We didn't get much accomplished shopping wise with the 3 kids but enjoyed some of the string beans concert at South Pointe. We also ran into Santa and helpers down by the ice cream store, they were waiting for the parade to start. When the kids saw Santa, they stopped dead in their tracks. Santa was really great... asking the kids what they would like, if they were good, etc... Schuyler said Hannah Montana stuff, Mack was lost for words for a change (although it might have been due to the coldness) and Eli, bless his heart, kept saying "Hi Sanna"! I didn't even know he knew who Santa was! When it was time to go, Eli had a few tears. He kept saying "back", meaning he wanted to go back. The whole way home all we heard was "By Sanna".

Eli has learned his animal noises. My favorites are his neigh, meow, and roar! He also has a monkey toy that I'm sure came from a McDonald's happy meal. Anyway, if you shake the monkey, one of his sayings is "A ha!". Eli LOVES to imitate this and it's so very cute.

Schuyler lost yet another tooth last Monday. She just had a dentist appt where they said it would come out in another month or two. Seriously, she plays with her teeth that much! She pulled it out while in bed trying to fall asleep. Both girls came out with sheepish little grins on their face. Schuyler also got her cast of today! Woo hoo! She now has to where a splint for 2 weeks but only when at school and dance. The skin is discolored, which is normal. It still has a slight bend but that will correct itself in a year or so. Schuyler is SO excited to take a normal bath!

I have WAY to many pictures to go through from Thanksgiving but just wanted to share one of my SIL. If you have ever wondered what the pregnancy glow is, well just look below and you will see = ) Isn't she beautiful!

giving (belated) thanks...in sickness and in health

2008-11-29T11:29:00.003-06:00

This past week has been filled with the usual ups and downs! It started with a productive weekend... Mark steam cleaning carpets, a trip to the Children's Musueum for me and the kids, 7-8 bags of mulched leaves gathered and I even got the exterior lights up. Then came Sunday evening and my throat was on FIRE. I chalked it up to my lingering cold and all the dust, etc... Monday, I had the nurse at work take a peak. Doesn't look like strep but it's very swollen. She says, if it persists see a Dr. I'm miserable... hurts to swallow and talk. Tuesday comes and I had to work. I do NOT feel well and finally break down and make a Dr. appt. Dr. takes a peak in my mouth and says, "Eeew, you have a swollen inflamed Uvula and some thing secondary as well". My first question is "What is my Uvula" and my second question "What does some thing secondary mean". Your Uvula is the thingy in the back of your mouth that hangs down, and, yes I have a form of strep. My prognosis - Uvulitis (use that in scrable and I'm sure you'll get many points) and Step throat.

Thanksgiving day was the first day I felt up to par. I could swallow with minimum pain. My Friday was not so lucky. I threw up 4 times in the a.m. as we were to be having Thanksgiving, at my house, at noon!! I'm pretty sure it was the orange juice on empty stomach in combination with drainage. Not fun!! I now have new meds, steroids, which should help. It's still to soon to tell.

So, to brighten up this post, here are just a few things I'm thankful for. My beautiful and wonderful kids who bring me more joy than I could have imagined. A husband who completely cleans the house and then cooks for his in-laws while his wife is puking and sacrifices the chance to see a friend he has not seen in at least 2 years. A good dog who tolerates sharing her domain with all her cousin dogs. Parents who help cook, watch the kids, etc... at the drop of a dime. Friends, on-line and in person, who are the most caring bunch!

completely and utterly swamped

2008-11-12T15:09:00.005-06:00

I have that feeling. The one where you know no-matter what you do, even if you stayed up all night, you wouldn't get everything done. I hate that feeling. Between my photography, my job, family needs and the approaching holidays - I'm struggling to find the balance. So, I'm trying to follow the advice I so often give to others, take it one day at a time and throw it up in God's hands. This too, shall pass.

On some other notes, last Saturday, we became the new owners of a Honda Pilot. It's used but new to us. It's the nicest car Mark or myself have ever owned!! Leather interior, sunroof and my very favorite feature.... heated seats!! Oh yeah! The kids love it and call it "the truck". Schuyler and Mack have been fighting over who gets to rider in the back.

Schuyler got a smaller cast on Monday. It allows her to bend her elbow. At first, she was unsure of the saw used to cut the cast off. But, after the technician showed that he could grab it while going, she was fine. In fact, she thought it tickled. Once the cast was off and they cleaned her arm they sent us for xrays. I saw the color drain from her face followed by the onset of yawns and I knew immediately what was happening b/c I get the same way. She said her tummy hurt and then gagged. She never got sick. They let her sit on my lap for xrays. Once back in the regular exam room and picking out stickers, she started to gain back some color and got most all back after laying down. The arm is healing well. Just as the Dr. said, new bone has began to grow and old bone that is connected is disintegrating. The body is so impressive. She picked yellow again and we hope to get it off completely after 3 weeks = )

Mack has been Miss helpful lately. Last week she cleaned the bathroom by herself. And when I say clean, I don't mean just picking up. She organized things that were out of place and found her water spray bottle and wipe the counter top and floor and folder the towels. It looked impressive. She tends to be an organized girl and I think her sister's untidy habits irritate her. Schuyler tends to be aloof and will leave things randomly in the house and often can not find things... for instance her dance shoes. Mack folds her clothes, puts them in her drawers and always knows where her dance shoes are.

Eli came down with pink eye on Sunday and went to the Dr. on Monday for a terrible cough. Ends up the E-man has croup! He has not slept for the past 2 nights which means mommy has not slept for the past 2 nights. Actually, the whole house seems to be coming down with the cold. UCK!!

Here are some snap shots from Halloween... I wish I would have had more time to capture them. Oh well...

Halloween aftermath

2008-11-04T13:04:00.004-06:00

Did ya'll have a good Halloween? I know our kids made out like bandits. I think we may decide to hide it all - out of site out of mind, or so we hope! We had a good Halloween. Grandma S and I took the kids to Vala's pumkin patch on Thursday. Wow! I can't believe how much there was to do! We started with the goats and the bunnies. There is a cute little sign that says something like, please do not cross - bunny homes only. Well, can you guess which of my children did not mind the sign. If you guessed Eli, you are correct. I turned to tell my mom something and glanced back and there he is, over the little fence peaking into the bunny house!! We walked through a house decorated as a spooky mine then off to pony rides - for all except Schuyler. She opted out b/c of her arm - can't blame the girl! This was Eli's first pony ride. It went around once and he said "done!". He actually made it the whole ride. So much else... train ride, jumping pillow, duck races, family go cart, play areas and it wouldn't be complete without the Hayrack ride, picking pumpkins, and treats at the end = ) Mom- I'm so glad you came with us = ) Only Schuyler stayed awake for the ride home!

Halloween was a good time. Schuyler was a Husker cheerleader (with broken arm), Mack was a lion, and Eli was a giraffe! We started great grandma's nursing home. Honestly, there buckets were full from that. We came home ate and got ready again...well the girls did. Eli did NOT want to put the costume back instead choosing to put in the living room. So, Mark took the girls and Eli and I handed out candy.

Some of you may know we were actually supposed to be in KC this weekend to purchase a new vehicle. Well, long story short, they accidentally sold our car. So, we're back to square one. On a bright note, we have ourselves a new computer... an IMac! I love it and I haven't even turned it on. The beautiful 24 in screen and sleek looks!!

Didn't want Schuyler to be left out of the fun. Here she is in all her toothless glory!

2008-10-29T13:19:00.004-05:00

Last Thursday was conferences for all 3 kids. It went very well = ) Mack was the first one up. She has taken a strong interest in writing. For instance, she made little book about horse. You have to color in the body part of the horse and then write the name of the body part on the paper. So, forehead, body, tail, hindlegs, forelegs, etc.. Her horse was a little different as the hindlegs were in front and forelegs in back = ) Without her sister to follow, she has blossomed into a leader for the younger students = ) The challenge school and ourselves face is keeping the expectations high and communicating those expectations. For example, she can buckle her seat belt. But there are times when for whatever reason (tired, lazy, just doesn't want to, etc...), she won't buckle it.

Eli continues to speak new words on a daily basis. Even words that the school nor us as parents remember using. Books are a huge interest to him. He will take a large stack in the corner and flip through them. His ample climbing skills was noted as well. He's been found almost over the chain link fence at school. It doesn't take but a second or two for this to happen - we know from experience!

Schuyler is a strong student all around. Her teachers and fellow classmates find her very enjoyable to be around. She is one of the first to help when needed. I like to hear this as it's more a reflection of her. Along with the regular reading homework, and math, they are now adding spelling to the mix. They each have individualized spelling words to work on.

Our very good friend's, the Fogo's, were in town this past week for a couple's baby shower. They are expecting their first at the beginning of February. I can't wait to meet the little man. The parents have more energy than anyone I know so I'm sure their child will have an energy level off the charts.

If all goes as planned, I'm taking tomorrow off and the kids, myself, and Grandma Cindy are heading to Vala's pumpking patch. Also, I think we are very close to buying Mark a new car = ) We may be going to Kansas City this weekend to pick it up. Again, knock on wood

I took pictures of the Montessori kids again this year. I got this new backdrop off ebay and am loving it. Here's one of Eli. So much for keeping him clean that a.m. You can see some dark spots on his shirt. You can see more pics here.

One of Mack and Eli. I have to go back and rework this one. It's a little "flat" for my taste.

STOP class

2008-10-22T10:16:00.002-05:00

I spent last night at STOP class and will be finishing up tonight. Can I say it's not nearly as painful as it was 9 years ago! The officer is is a great lady with personality and I've learned a lot from her real life stories as compared to the lecture man I had way back when. It makes me appreciate the job they do - not that I didn't in the first place - it's just they deal with so much than I ever realized. I've also come to the realization that there are a lot of driving teenagers and college students that really don't have a clue!!

Take female teenager #1 as our first example. She is 19 which means she's had her license a whopping 3 year. During this time, she has managed to go to 3 STOP classes - all in different counties and is on her 3rd car and has received numerous traffic violations. She was sitting next to a lawyer who offered her business card and said "Here, you'll probably need this!". Another comment was, "Let us know when you leave and we can all leave after you or before you".

Example #2 - male college student who was bragging that he was drinking and driving and only received a speeding ticket. Um, hello! Do you not realize the teacher is an officer!! He also believes it's incorrect for late night eating establishments (ie Amigos, McDonald's, etc) to call the cops if they small alcohol on a customer's breath or if the custome is acting irridically. I was shaking my head to myself in the back of the class room when the gal next to me piped up and asked if he, a family member or a friend had ever been effected by drinking or drinking and driving. His answer was of course "No". She replied, "You'll think different when it does". I said an Amen!

Mack has been diligently working on writing her name. However, we have found her autograph on the light switch, her sister's pillow, and the wall. She tried to blame her sister, saying Schuyler was the one writing McKenzie on everything. We working on this lying she has developed.

Eli has become a fountain of words, at least for him. He's putting two words together... bye da, mo please, help please, etc... and lot's more of one worders... buckle, strap, spray.

Schuyler got to practice with her soccer team on Monday. She was disappointed she couldn't play but who ever was sitting out would come and sit with her! She also got best dribbler award, which she was very proud of. She was able to do jazz yesterday so something to entertain my active girl. We saw the Dr. on Monday for a follow-up. The bones are still aligned nicely and she'll be in the big cast another 3 weeks.

Here's the cast again. This was after she woke up from a 3.5 or 4 hour nap. The girl was exhausted!

My sweet Eli. He can be the sweetest!

broken wrist = (

2008-10-16T14:47:00.002-05:00

I'll start with the bad news (2 things) but I do have some good news, so if I forget, please remind me = )

Schuyler broke her left wrist on Sunday. Things have been a whirl wind. Where should I start?

On Sunday, I dropped Schuyler off at her best friend's birthday party at Lost in Fun, an indoor playland. I filled out the waiver form and on it left my home number. Mark was at a golf tournament and my dad was watching Eli and Mack so I could go to my photoshoot. Around 3:30, I get a call from my dad. Schuyler has fallen and her wrist/arm is injured - she is upset. They had tried calling my home but my dad couldn't answer at the time but luckily, my aunt was at the same place with her grandson and saw Schuyler and was able to call my dad on his cell and bring her home. Dad promises to keep me updated. I get the 2nd call just as I'm finishing the photo shoot. It doesn't look good and I probably need to take her some place. My photoshoot is within blocks of my home so I quickly say my goodbyes pack my gear and head home. I can tell my baby is hurt - it's in her eyes and it's painful for her to move it. We head to Linc Care and wait for what seems like an extraordinary amount of time. It's not until I take off the make-shift splint her arm was wrapped in that I can tell it's definitely broken. They x-ray the bones and agree. The PA comes in to tell me that it's broken and we need to see a Orthodpedic in the a.m. and prescribes Tylenol with codeine.

I'm upset for a number of reasons: I never got to actually talk to the Dr. on duty, it seems like service was so slow, what exactly did I sign on the waiver since I didn't actually read it, why didn't I call our Pediatric Dr. to see if they were open, why do these things happen when Mark is gone etc... It's a difficult night for Schuyler. She's in pain, restless and doesn't sleep much. We put her in my bed with me and Mark volunteered to sleep in the basement. I'm supposed to only give her the Tylenol every 8 hours or when needed but I didn't really follow this.

Monday comes with very little sleep for Schuyler and I. We get her into Nebraska Orthopedic at 10:30. It's actually broke in two places, but the one is barely broken, just "cracked". It's her left arm, right by her wrist. Dr. suggests that we re-align the bones with a manual procedure to insure proper healing. This means she has to go under anesthesia and a trip to Lincoln Surgical Hospital. They wrap her again - in a much better wrap and we're on our way to Lincoln Surgical. I call Mark to have him take the afternoon off. They get her prepped and she's a trooper - SO brave! The procedure is successful and the Dr. and Anesthesia Dr. come and talk to us and rave about what a great patient she is. However, after her stay in post-op, they bring her to me and she instantly starts crying. She is very confused. I'm holding her and she keeps saying I want my mommy, I don't like this hospital - I want to leave, mommy don't ever leave my side again, my tummy hurts, my arm hurts, I'm dizzy etc... It was more than enough to break my heart. The anesthesiologist says she was not like that at all in post-op but it is normal behavior. We try to get something in her stomach but she refuses and they won't give her pain meds until she eats. Ugh! We get her to eat a tiny something and they give her med. Then, she vomits = ( The nurse gets her a popsicle and Schuyler is okay with it. She's still confused but I just wanted to take her home b/c I'm sure she'll calm down just being out of the hospital. Mark's pulling the car up front and I'm in the wheel chair with Schuyler in my lap and sure enough, she starts to vomit and like most Mom's I try and cup my hands to catch it - Yuck. After that, she felt better. We got her home and she slept most all the remainder of the night.

She is in a cast up to her shoulder - it's yellow of course = ) She'll be in it for 3-4 weeks and then an abbreviated one for 2-3 weeks. Hopefully, we'll have it off by Thanksgiving. She was determined to go to school on Tuesday despite the fact she woke up at 5:45 a.m and had huge bags under her eyes. Her teacher called me before lunch and thought I should come pick her up - she's tired and her fingers are swollen. Schuyler rests and elevates her arm but isn't happy about missing school. She made it the whole day yesterday.

She's thought everything through - like the fact she's done with soccer for the year and will miss volleyball camp. We're not sure how long she'll be out of dance. She's very independent and doesn't like the fact she sometimes needs help when using the bathroom at school. However, she has enjoyed having friends and relatives sign her case but I'm pretty sure she still wishes this wouldn't have happened = (

Here's a few pictures to document...

Schuyler finally falls asleep watching TV on Sunday evening. Taken with super slow shutter speed so a bit blurry.

She's not looking but there is a frown on her face. This is before we went to NE Orthopedic.

The official wording, "displaced fracture @ distal end of radius proximal to wrist Left".

The major breakage is on the right side of the picture and the less concerning break on the left.

Tuesday a.m. Mark signing the cast.

The cast in it's full yellow glory!

The other bad news. Mark's car died on his way to Beatrice, prior to the arm breaking. The official word is it's done dealing and would need a whole new image. The cost of replacing it is not worth it. So, I think we're looking for a new car.

And, a little good news = ) I picked Eli up last week and they said they had news. I'm never sure how to interpret this since it could be good or bad! Eli went to the bathroom on the little potty. Wow! Apparently, he's been watching the older boys. So, we decided to get out our little potty out of storage. Just last night, before bed, he went for us. I'm not sure I'm ready to do the full potty training in full but he can certainly start sitting on it = )

H, for hard love and Huskers

2008-10-07T07:20:00.004-05:00

So, I finally had the chance to go to a Husker's game. It's been at least 2 years since I've been to one in person b/c I've been pregnant or nursing. It's too bad it couldn't have been a better game. I also have to admit that these night games are just not my cup of tea. I am NOT a night person and my body just starts shutting down after a certain time! I went back to the van at the start of the 4th qtr and while Mark listened to it on the radio, I fell asleep! Sheesh!

Ms. Denie met with Eli last week at the Montessori and yesterday we had our home visit. She is establishing a relationship with him and working on speech. She is also coaching me on dealing with certain behaviors. He had one of his extreme meltdowns yesterday. Which is good from the standpoint that I need to know how to deal with it. It's also hard in the fact that I know I'm doing some things wrong. For example, I can ignore tantrums to a point. But once they get to that cry, the one where the gasping for air, or he's banging his head, I go and pick him up and give him loves. Well, this is rewarding him for his negative behavior. I'm not so good at the tough love thing. Let's just say there is room for improvement. This is where Mark compliments me well, he's much better at dealing with these situations than I am.

Schuyler has another loose tooth! Seriously, the girl has no front teeth how can she lose another one and how on earth is she going to eat. That would be a total of 5 teeth missing. Although, 2 of the bottom ones are slowly coming in. And, how does it go from barely loose to hardly hanging on in 1 day! I swear the girl plays with it all day long. She was saying this a.m. how she hopes it falls out at school so she can go to the nurses office!! Silly girl!

Here are some pictures. I'm always looking for a good excuse to take some pictures = ) So, when my niece Maddy found this dress of Schuyler's and we had other cordinating outfits, it only made sense to go take some pics. She was much more enthused than my kids. I like fresh meat!!

Here is one in b/w...

I like most of these in color. It's the combo of her beautiful blue eyes, dark hair, and gorgeous freckles!

Love the blue background of the dumpster, yes a dumpster, and the wind blowing their hair. See, Schuyler has NO teeth!

Ms. Mack working the camera!

Had to throw this one in! Last week, Schuyler's best friend rode with us to their Soccer game. I think she could totally fit into our family of blondies!

McKenzie - you know she's up to something! Liking the bowl that I just used to make scones. I guess you would call it scone dough! See the remnants around her face!!

swing time

2008-09-29T15:03:00.003-05:00

As my the busy photography season has approaced, I've felt a need to capture the daily happenings in our life and have been pushing myself to look at things from a differenct perspective. The result, this cute picture of Mack. Maybe it's my mommy goggles but I find it pretty cute!

Last Sunday was a great day for Schuyler's soccer team. We saw some amazing things from these girls. We witnessed several pull backs in the game, Schuyler being one of them. Girls who are usually timid were coming out of there shells and scoring. And, speaking of scoring, Ms. Schuyler had 7 or more goals. She had a great game! I've been trying to teach her some new concepts but she's not always receptive if it comes from her mom. So, our coach has another team of 10 year old girls which he brings his daughter to. He invited Schuyler to join. She had a great time working on foot work and drills and was able to witness them scrimage. It was good for her to see the concept of space!

Eli is coming out with more words... arm and side (outside). His first session with the teacher last week went well. She was able to provide me with some cues to use to promote the use of speech. I really think he's on the verge of some break throughs.

Friday we had a lazy evening and enjoyed the sunset on the back porch. We taught Schuyler sprints and got the stop watch out. Eventually, we all took turns racing each other. I'm definitely not as in shape as I used to be!

We starting a new series at church that I'm really excited for. It's call my desperate household. This first message was great and I can't wait for the rest! If you are interested, you can find more info here.

caught red handed!

2008-09-19T11:11:00.002-05:00

Hmm, what do you think is going thru his head. How about, "Sheesh, I've been caught again. Oh well"! See his little table in the bottom right that he pushed over. Pretty clever little man! He is starting to use some more words!! Shoe, Juice (refers to any drink), done, more, nana (banana), shar (sharp)! I met his teacher he will be working with this past Monday. Her name is Denie and I think she will be a great fit. It can't hurt that she has raised 4 boys of her own and has a grandson! She read his evaluation and the first words she said were, "Sounds like one of my boys"! We start working with her on Monday. We'll start with weekly visits with the intent to reduce down to once or twice a month after the first month.

Tonight is Fun Night at Schuyler's elementary. It should be fun. We told the girls if they get their room cleaned we would treat them to cotton candy!

I got to spend a little one-on-one time with McKenzie last weekend, which was good since her play date got cancelled. I took her for a little shopping and we stopped and got my mom. She truly does have distinct likes and dislikes when it comes to fashion. She got some silky ballerina pj's, a dress, a horse shirt, and a sparkly headband. She was very happy = )

always count your blessings

2008-09-10T12:23:00.002-05:00

Before you go to bed, do you count your blessings? After an incident last Friday, I've been couting mine. The kids and I went to Runza to use our free ice cream cone coupons. It was a beautiful evening and we were eating outside. Eli had just got down from my lap and was looking at some rocks right beside me. I noticed his cone was getting down to the wrapper level so I went to take it off for him so he didn't eat it. After I did, he was MAD. He made a dash for the drive thru and I could hear a car coming. I screamed, probably at the very top of my lungs "NO!". He had both feet just off the curb and was ready to take another step and throw his spoon. Luckily, I was able to catch the hand that was going to throw the spoon and pull him back. The truck must have heard my scream b/c he had veered slightly away from the curb. My poor little boy was probably 6-12 inchs from getting hit. It was a big F150 truck and Eli's head would have taken the brunt of the bumper. People from inside came out and the driver of the truck was upset. It took me a moment to come out of my shock. Luckily we were all okay. After the driver left, and the people went back inside, I sat holding my head in my hands and cried. I sent a prayer up to God. There is no point to this story. It just needed to get off my chest.

On a more light hearted note. Schuyler had her first fall soccer game. She just loves soccer. She plays kickball every recess.

Mackie had her first dance class. I think the girl is in love with it. She didn't want to leave. She wanted to join Schuyler's class since it's right after her's on Tuesday nights.

Here's 2 of my beautiful sunshine! Look at that toothless grin in the last one!

Chindian

2008-09-05T07:05:00.002-05:00

So, what is a Chindian you ask? It's a new McKenzism! We were being silly Monday night and there was left over flour on the counter and Mark was putting it on my face. It had been a challenging day with the kids and I commented that this was my war paint and he replied that I was the chief indian. Well, Mack walked in about that time and said "I want to be a Chindian too!". So, Chindian in our household represents "Chief Indian". And yes, all the kids had to have "war paint" on there fact too!

Eli has been giving us some good laughs as well. The boy loves lotion! He will cover his legs, belly, and arms in it. The other thing he has taken an interest to is his sister's music box/jewelry box. I think his main fascination is how to get the music to play and trying to figure out how to wind (sp) the box. The other thing about Eli, which he might get from his mom... he LOVES having his feet tickled. Before bed, when we're cuddling and reading stories he will sometimes stretch out and put his feet by my hands or up by my face. This is his sign that he wants his feet tickled.

I think my body is now in the routine of my new earlier work hours. I love picking Schuyler up from school! She is such a chatter box and I hear so much about her day = )

If you all have a chance, stop over to my photography blog. It was time to separate my personal life and photography business.

Here is the pic that would not upload last week. Eli getting a big smooch from his sisters'. I'm pretty sure he's not loving it as much as they are = )

getting better at updating!

2008-08-29T13:33:00.004-05:00

I'm finally getting back in the rhythm of posting again!

Monday was Eli's 2nd evaluation with LPS and my mind has been put to ease. The boy is smart. He is cognitively where a 2 year old should be. However, his speech is lacking. He is not far from the average level. So, part of the problem is the fact he is preverbal. Part of the problem is there is such a gap between where he is cognitively and speech wise, that it is frustrating to him. Meaning, he understands A LOT of things but can't communicate back. Part of the problem is he is very strong willed and determined. So, we will begin the program with LPS and work on some of these things. And, I thought Mackie was the strong willed one!

8 years! Yep, Mark and I have been married for 8 years. We celebrated with a dinner out and NO kids = )

I hope everyone has a great labor day weekend! Since the patio project is complete, Mark will be putting the privacy fence back up. He'll take a break to watch the Huskers play = )

I have one more picture but blogger is having issues. Ugh!

because you requested....

2008-08-22T13:19:00.003-05:00

So, I've heard from a few of you that you want more photos (and that I haven't been very good about updating). Well, ask and you shall receive.

Recent ones of the kiddos. Here is Schuyler. Our new nickname for her is "sunshine".

One of Ms. McKenzie. I think we should nickname her "fire" for obvious reasons.

Mr. Eli. Not sure about his nickname yet? See how blonde his hair is? We are talking white!

Eli's first haircut. "Hey lady, what are you doing with those scissor and my hair?"

"Oh my gosh! Something just fell from my head! I'm not sure I like this anymore!"

How cool is Schuyler in her yellow ball-cap and yellow YMCA t-shirt! Yeah, she was loving it! Here she is at first base.

I think she is thinking, "Me, me, I'm ready to play. Where should I go coach?" Makes me think of that song..."Put me in coach. I'm ready to play, today. Look at me. I can be ceterfield!"

Okay, now that we've got the good stuff done, let's go to updates. Last weekend was our last hurrah before shool started. We went to our fiend's cabin for fun at the lake and boating! The girls went fishing for the first time. Schuyler caught 2 and Mack caught 1 - both little blue gill. They were thrilled. Daddy on the other hand, sat for an hour or so with no luck = (

Monday was "safe walk to shool night" or basically open-house. So, the kids and I walked/strollered up to Sheridan. Mrs. Judd is Schuyler's teacher and she is fantastic. We got to tour the computer room, library, music room and the cafeteria.

Tuesday a.m., Mack came to the realization that it was Schuyler's last day and she was quite sad with big tears in her eyes. Poor girl. I had been so concerned about how Schuyler would do at Sheridan and how Eli would do without his oldest sis that I never considered the effect on Mack. After all, they pretty much do everything together. Schuyler was so sweet to her. She gave her hugs and told her they can spend the whole day at school together and she would make sure Mack could sit next to her at lunch. She even went and got the 2 "prettiest" barbies she could find and gave them to Mack.

Schuyler had an awesome first day of 1st grade. Her favorite part was hot lunch = ) She thought that was pretty cool. She has been very good about telling me about her day... recess, writing a poem, practicing letters, and doing math.

Eli had his first eval on Wed. It didn't go as I hoped but I had high expectations. I was hoping we would go in and they would say all his behavioral issues are b/c he is pre-verbal. We have the speech pathologist and behaviorialist/psychologist coming to our house on Monday.

Schuyler lost yet another tooth Wed night. After being in bed for half hour or so she came and found me with a tooth in her hand. Now, not only is she missing her middle two top ones, she is missing 2 bottom ones. Not the middle ones, but the ones next to them. I believe they might be incissors? Such a cute little toothless grin she has.

times are crazy

2008-08-11T14:36:00.002-05:00

Wow, the times are getting crazy with summer wrapping up! The kids finished VBS with a rockin' finale. It was so fun to watch both girls get into it singing the theme song "POWER".

Schuyler has her last t-ball game of the seaons on the 3rd. She went out with a bang, getting 3-4 outs and hitting the ball hard - once to the outfield! She lost another tooth on the 1st. However, she was disappointed the tooth fairy didn't make it that night = ( Tooth fairy came the next night and left a note = ) Grandma took the girls back to Hastings to spend time with their cousins for 4 days. Eli enthusiastically waived them good-bye. We asked him the next day if he missed his sisters' and his response was a very clear head shake no and the words "uh-ugh". He missed them at school but enjoyed the extra attention at home. He also got his first haircut on the 3rd. She took off 1 inch all around but it's not short. We like the longer boy haircuts and who can resist his curls. He is the epitomy of blonde - we're talking white blonde! I think we might be starting to hear a few words? Maybe done and mine!

Schuyler is on the brink of loosing another tooth. It's barely hanging on. Once it's gone, she will be missing both of her top teeth! Today she had Camp Sheridan. I have such mixed emotions. She was beyond excited and then to find out that she actually knows 3 of the children. 2 from her soccer team and 1 from the Montessori.

McKenzie is enjoying the fact that she has a play buddy right next door now. I think they will be two peas in a pod. She has also created a name that I think is hilarious - Princess Loria. It's pronounced liked Gloria but without the G. She is also very proud that she is now in a booster car seat = ) It was funny how empty our bed seemed while she was in Hastings. She is our child that still creeps into our bed around 3:00 and 5:00 a.m.

Just a pic of Schuyler while she still had teeth = )

Poor Neglected Blog

2008-07-31T10:20:00.004-05:00

My poor neglected blog! Sheesh. Where do I start? The girls have been attending Vacation Bible School at our church (VBS for short). They are having a BLAST. Tonight is the finale so we'll get to see them sing songs and watch a slide show of all the fun things they have been doing. Schuyler is in the same group as her best friend so it has been an extra special time for her. I was worried b/c they split apart the elementary students and pre-school students, meaning Mack wasn't with her sister. This actually worked well. The smaller worship area works better for the younger kids - they are not so overwhelmed and it's not near as loud. And, Mack has 2 of her friends from the Montessori. They are not in the same group but there groups rotate to the different activities together so she gets to be with them a lot.

Eli had his 18 month appt. As many of you are aware, he is not yet talking and has had some behaviorial issues which have concerned us. The doctor believes the behavior is a result of being "pre verbal" and once he starts talking the behavior will quite or at least decline. But, since he is not where other kids his age are, we are going through some screenings with him to rule things out. Lincoln Public schools will be coming to do an assesment and Mark and I are filling out a questionairre. Mark and I will complete this and our answers will be scored. Based on the score, we may need to have additional consultations or assesments done but will cross that bridge when/if necessary. Other than that, he is healthy, strong, active and tall! 90% for height, 40% for height.

A couple of weeks ago I got together with my good friend and fellow photographer, Holly. We attempted to get family pictures of the Riese's but some of the Riese kids did not feel the need to cooperate = ( We did enjoy the rest of the afternoon as mom's and kids went to the pool and dad's went for a round of golf! Here are a few from our session, all images courtesy of Holly Troxel Photography.

adjusting

2008-07-15T08:29:00.002-05:00

Wow. It's been a long while since I posted!

Well, we had a good 4th of July. We went to a friend's cabin on the lake and enjoyed a day of swimming, boating, and tubing. All of the kids experienced their first boat ride and Schuyler even tried tubing! It has been so long since I have been tubing or boating. It brought back memories from when my uncle Ron would take us to the lake skiing. I remember skiing and tubing with my cousin. They would take us around the lake and try to get us to bite the dust - we were a little older at that point.

Eli started the Montessori the following Monday - the 7th. It has been a BIG adjustment for him = ( The drop-off the first few days were filled with a lot of tears. Then, with the suggestion of my husband, we tried something different. Instead of having the girls go straight into their room and Eli go into his, the girls (mainly Schuyler) have been holding his hand and walking him into his room. Things have got better and yesterday, there were no tears at all. As we guessed, his hardest time is when he can't see his sister's. When they are around, or when he is outside, things are fine.

On top of this, we were trying to adjust him to the toddler bed. He has good nights and bad nights. Sometimes, he wakes up with terrible night terrors where he is crying uncontrollably and will throw himself on the floor or bang his head against something. Nights like these I feel like I have an infant again but I feel so bad for him b/c he can't express any feelings = ( However, last night, despite his fight to stay up, once he was asleep, he slept the whole night.

I meet with the Dr. at the end of the month to discuss his speech and a few behaviorial issues. He is due for a vacination but we will discuss the other issues and see.

Mark was in a golf tournament this weekend. I think they won the calcutta and got 3rd in regular play but don't quote me on any of this! The girls enjoyed the new American Girl movie, Kit Kittredge, with Papa. And, I enjoyed a good girls night out on Friday!! Thanks ladies for getting me out of the house!

Pictures...

more projects...

2008-07-03T08:36:00.002-05:00

What would life be without a project at the Riese household. Yes, we have began yet another project. The cement patio that was sloping into the house is completely out! Mark, with the help of his uncle, great uncle, and cousin have removed the patio. Our house is the talk of the neighborhood with a huge pile of dirt and a great big red roll-off taking up what was once our driveway. A big thank you to Aunt Diane and cousin Seth for helping watch the kids so the men could work.

The girls finished up their first round of swimming lessons last week. We are taking this next session off but both girls will be repeating their current classes in August. Mack is SO close to passing... just needs to do 3 seconds of floating unassisted on her front - she has the back side down. Schuyler needs to "master" her front and back crawl. Her class is rather challenging. This week we had no activities due to the holiday weekend! It was nice! I stayed at home with the kids Monday and Tuesday. We enjoyed swimming at Grandma's one day and a play date at our house with a friend of Schuyler's - complete with the slip and slide, baking cookies, and water color painting! What a fun time.

Mack had her 4 year old well child check up last week. She is still 50% for height and weight. Dr. asked her to play catch and I think he was surprised at her throwing ability. I mentioned to him we would be back in a month since Eli is still not using many words. He decided to check his ears. Sure enough, he had wax the size of my pinky blocking both ears. He was hearing but probably muffled. We are hoping for a language explosion = )

Speaking of Eli, he is officially adjusting to his toddler bed. With either Mark and I home this week, we thought it would be good timing. It is proving to be a difficult adjustment but we are making slow progress.

Hope everyone has a fun and safe 4th. We are heading to a friend's cabin with the kids for some fun in the lake and some and of course fireworks. We are truly blessed to live in a place with so many freedoms!

Look what Mack got for her bday!! Her first digital camera! I've created a mini me = ) And, a sweet picture of my mom and her!

birthday, Eli graduates, and a bump on the head

2008-06-26T13:49:00.002-05:00

Well, how is that for an interesting title? We made it through all our birthday celebrations! I have one word to describe it "pinkalicious"! Yes, she got a pink dress, pink flip-flops, pink tank top, pink swim suit...among the other great gifts she is enjoying. Oh, how could I almost forget... the pink princess cake! Did you know a soccer ball cake pan can be made into a ball gown for a princess. Yep! It was pink too!

Miss Schuyler got a boo-boo on her head. We stopped over at a friend's house on Tuesday night. Their daughter and our 2 girls were playing downstairs when I hear a cry and their daughter racing upstairs saying Schuyler fell off the bed and is bleeding. So, down I run like a bat outta you know where. I see her cyring on the bed with blood in her hair and on her shirt. I scoop her up in my arms and yell for Mark b/c we all know this mom freaks out in these kind of situations. Luckily, my friend is a nurse. She takes control, cleans off the wound, applies ice and eventually stops the bleeding. We are fortunate this time. It's a decent gash and had it not been in her hair line, we would have probably gone to the ER. Actually, I still wanted to take her to the ER but my hubby talked me out of it, rightfully so (at least this time).

Eli has been visiting the Montessori. Tomorrow he will graduate from Linda's and begin the Montessori on July 7th, after the summer break. It's another bitter sweet moment. Linda is like my 2nd mom and I couldn't have asked for a better person to teach, love, and look after our dear Eli. I know this is not goodbye as the kids and I will continue to stop over and visit the babies. But, I will miss seeing her on a daily basis. Eli had an okay visit on Tuesday. He would not let me very far out of his sight. He did display some of his furniture moving and climbing abilities : ) Today was a bit better. Everyone was outside either playing on the playground or doing patio work... gardening, water work, washing windows, scrubbing work, crushing egg shells for the garden, cracking nuts for the animal feeders, etc... Half the time he didn't know I was there. But, Schuyler was right by his side introducing him to all the children and showing him the different work. She was a very proud big sister! Eli had so much fun, he didn't want to leave.

We are on the hunt for a new refridgerator! Ours is leaking. We know the style we like but are limited b/c of the width. I hope we find one very soon. Actually, Mark has done all the research and shopping around.

Since I have not got to any pictures of the bday party, I'll show you a little of what I've been up to. Soon, my family life and photography life will live separately as I'll be unveiling something new. But, until that time...

Happy Birthday Mackie-Doo-Roo

2008-06-20T10:15:00.002-05:00

Happy 4th bday Mackie-Doo-Roo! We LOVE you! I know so many times when I speak of you, I refer to those challenging qualities. But, those challenging qualities will serve you well someday if we channel them correctly. That, will be up to us, mom and dad, and only time will tell! What are those qualities you wonder? The stubborness you had since the day you were born. Those days when you refused the bottle and would only nurse. I remember last year when you wore underwear, a swimsuit bottom and a skirt. You were bound and determined to wear a swimsuit! You have a flare for drama and a little fire in you. You also have a very kind and sweet side. You are the first to rub my back and take care of me when I don't feel well. You say things like, "I don't want Sadie to get old". You have a love for all things beautiful. Your smile can melt our hearts!

Here is a great quote I found, and how true it is!

"Even though you're not the oldest, Or the youngest, you see, Being in the middle is a really neat place to be! The middle of a sandwich Is the most important part, And in the middle of your body, You will find your heart. The engine in the middle Is what runs a good machine; And our family wouldn't be the same Without you in between."

We our going to take little miss muffet out for dinner tonight. On Sunday, she will have her friend bday party and the family bday party. She took oatmeal applesauce cookies to school to share with her friends. Updates and pics to follow next week=)

Another one bites the dust

2008-06-17T15:36:00.002-05:00

We said good bye to another bunny. The kids found a beheaded bunny on our side yard. I'm not sure what happened. It's not the mower or he would have looked much worse. Below is the first time the bunnies left the burrow. This little guy was curious. I'm guessing he's the only one left alive.

And, Schuyler lost another tooth last week at school. We're still waiting on those top one's to fall out. Mack was sad and feeling left out so she drew a picture for the tooth fairy and left it with Schuyler's tooth. That sweet fairy left a quarter for that picture and sweet little notes for each of the girls =)

Life seems crazy busy here. It was only a matter of time before it madness resumed. Last week, both the girls began swim lesssons. They are both becoming strong swimmers. Schuyler has to work on doing soft strokes and keeping her body in a line. Mack is the first to volunteer in her class. The girl still has no fear!

Friday was a fun day for me and the girls. I went with their class to the nature center and we had one of Mack's good friend's, Shaine, ride with us. Afterwards, we went to Star City Shores for some swimming. We had the Director's (of the Montessori) twins, age 9 1/2, join us. Schuyler was tall enough to go down the big slides by herself. We spent 3 hours there!! I had some tired girls the next day!

Happy belated father's day to all you out there. Mark's present should be arriving today (yes, a few days late)! I made a collage. We spelled "Daddy" in the driveway with big bubble letters and a little chalk work. I had each child take turns laying next to the letters. It's probably hard to invision so I'll see if I can't post it sometime.

My grandma celebrated her 80th birthday with a good portion of the Schlattmann clan in attendance for a dinner Saturday evening. Grandma - I know you don't read this but I hope you had a happy birthday! Look at the beautiful generations you have made!! Her official bday was yesterday.

Lastly, happy bday to my husband, who is spending the day with our son who had a temp of 103.3 yesterday. Despite the circumstances, I hope you are having a good day!

Schuyler had a temp of 103.2 on Sunday and I stayed home with her Monday. Now, Eli has it. I hope we don't pass it around! Mack's bday is Friday and her party is Sunday! Guess will be taking our Vitamin C and Echinacea!

busy again

2008-06-06T08:08:00.003-05:00

Well, we knew our break would be short lived. Starting next week we resume back into full swing! Our schedule will be something like this: Monday - Mark's golf league, Tuesday - girls' swim lessons, Wednesday - tball practice, Thursday - girls' swim lessons, Sunday - church and tball game, plus my ocassional photo shoot and our never ending projects - putting a fence up and tearing out the back patio and putting in a deck!

So, Schuyler had her first tball practice on Wednesday. Take a guess at what color there shirts are.... YELLOW! She is pretty darn excited about that! Practice actually got cut short due to lightening. The first game this weekend should be quite the interesting one as it sounds like this is the first year for all with the exception of 4. Speaking of games, Schuyler got to enjoy 2 baseball games this last week with Grandpa Riese at Salt Dog Stadium. She was on cloud 9 and was quite the little sport with her cap on!

Here is a picture of her proudly displaying her Kindergarten diploma and present from the end of year celebration. The class got a shirt saying "Child's View Montessori, 2008 graduate". As always, it was a fun celebration filled with dancing, singing and great food! Schuyler, we are so proud of you and all you have accomplished during this year! You have such strong determination that will take to you to where ever you want to go!

Here is our little stud muffin! This boy wants to be just like daddy. He's got daddy's sunglasses on and he just needs a club in his hand = ) (Never mind the filthy white onsie and food on his chin!) Eli loves to mow, too! He gets so upset if daddy's mowing without him. He will mow along side with his toy mower for a while but he really likes it when daddy holds him and mows!

As for our bunnies, they have all left the burrow. Unfortunately, we have found 2 more dead bunnies bringing our death toll up to 3. We still have not told the kids. But we have seen 1, possibly 2 (can't tell if it's the same one), out and about.

Oh, I finished Mack's new dresser which she loves! It started as baby blue and is now a beautiful white dresser with pink draweres. And, we found pink crystal drawer knobs at Target. (Well, not real crystal but you get the idea). It's just perfect for McKenzie and she loves it. Now, I can actually put their clothes away!

our neighbors are moving

2008-05-30T08:42:00.004-05:00

My heart is heavy today. The T family officially stayed their last night in the home on Wednesday and said goodbye to it yesterday. One hour later, the new family was doing there walk through. The T family, Pam, Emma, Hunter, and Ashton will be joining their dad in San Diego tomorrow. For that, I am grateful. When you move into a house, you don't get to choose your neighbors. You choose the house and try to scope out the neighborhood but you never know exactly the whole package. Not only have our kids (who are all very close in age) become friends, but I have made a friend who I will greatly miss. I don't like goodbye's. I'm sure there will be other great neighbors in our lifetime, but the T family holds a special place in our hearts.

Unfortunately, we also have another set of neighbors moving. Lee and Jenny. I'm sure we'll still see a lot of them since their daughter and grand-daughter are moving in.

On to brighter topics. How about baby bunnies? Yes, we have baby bunnies and the kids enjoy watching them grow. We almost took them to the animal rescue shelter b/c we thought mama had abandoned them. However, she still occasionally comes around. 2 have left the burrow to explore. Unfortunately, one of them died and I returned the other one to the burrow (with gloves on of course). The kids do not realize one has passed. I don't think we're going to mention it.

Eli is continuing to climb. He is very ingenious when it comes to this. I came in one day to find him on his dresser waving a cd around in the air and McKenzie laughing at the whole scene. He had pushed a toy up to it and then pulled out one of the drawers just enough to make his own staircase!! Gray hairs will be appearing all over my head soon!

Tonight we will celebrate Schuyler's kindergarten graduation and the end of year celebration at the Montessori. It is always a fun time. We will continue to work on the fence. Yes, this previous weekend we lost the north side of our privacy fence to the wind. It was on the project list, we're just doing it a little sooner than anticipated.

Did you think I would forget a picture? Check out this sweety! She has a little spirit in her that reminds me of Mack. Who doesn't love a little girl in curly piggies!

I don't have an off button!

2008-05-23T11:32:00.003-05:00

Is this the PERFECT shirt for Mr. E or what!! And, just look at his eyes and smirk. He's up to something! Thanks Grandma S - it fits him to a "T". If you think about it, there are some good qualities in computers that would be nice to apply to humans. Yes, an off button or power down function would be great for children. More memory! There are times when I need more memory. Wouldn't it be great if you could just go and buy some, or just upgrade! How about back-up capabililities. Oooops I overlaid that piece of information, I'll just go to my back-up copy.

Eli has also been battling a cold and teething. He had watery eyes for a few days followed by some crusty eyes and nose drainage. He is getting the last of his 4 teeth - all at one time! They are the ones inbetween the molars and incisors. The left top one busted through yesterday and there are big red bumps on the other 3 so it's just a matter of time. He has decided to share his crusty eyes with mommy = (

Here's miss Mack! Instead of shin guards, she wears them as knee guards. She is so funny. She really enjoyed the dress rehearsal and watched so well. However, the day of the dance was a different story. She was determined she was going to sit in the front, where we had sat for the dress rehearsal. I tried to explain the facts and concept of assigned seating. I tried bribery. I failed on both accounts. So, we had a gentle reminder from the people that seat you that I would need to take her out if this occurred during the show. Well, duh! I took her out and eventually brought her back in and she had made the decision to sit (in our seats). She also had a historical comment at the end of the first Act. The performers were doing a modern, conceptual dance where music only played for the first half. There were people running around the stage, sleeping people being dragged across the stage... you get the idea. Not your typical dance. Anyhow, Mack says, "What is this? This isn't dance!" Of course Mark chimes in, good question.

And, speaking of dancer, here was a quick shot of her before her class pictures. The recital went well! She gets up there and has this HUGE smile and you can tell she really enjoys it! Schuyler is also very funny! After Idol on Tuesday's, there is a show called Hell's Kitchen. It's a basically a cooking contest and the winner becomes a chef in a new restaurant. Well, I usually am pretty good about turning the TV off after Idol but one day I forgot. I noticed it was on and went to shut it off. Here's what Schuyler said, "Mom, I want to watch Kitchen. It's actually called Hails (Hell's) Kitchen. But, Hails (Hells) a bad word so I just call it Kitchen). I wish I could imitate how she says "hell". She adds a little southern twang to it!

The girls had dentist appts and we are proud to report we have 42 teeth or so and still not a single cavity = ) Schuyler has another loose tooth. Her top one has been ever so slight loose but her bottom incisor is MUCH more loose!

Enjoy the memorial day weekend. Schuyler is having a friend spend the night tonight and Monday Mark and I are playing in a couples' scramble. That will be interesting since I haven't touched a club in forever!

slowing down

2008-05-13T13:16:00.003-05:00

Life will be slowing down for us, well, at least for a little bit;-) Spring soccer is now complete and dance will be done this weekend after the recital. We'll have softball and swimming lessons to look forward to shortly and eventually Vacation Bible School later in the summer.

Schuyler's team, the Eclypse, won their final game this weekend. At this stage, it's still very much about learning the game and fundamentals, but it is kind of cool that they were undefeated. Speaking of the game, she did the funniest thing! She was dribbling the ball and I've been trying to teach her to "pull back" the ball. So, when your on a break away and the opposing team is gaining ground, you pull the ball back and head a different direction, usually to goal, and the defenders fly right by you. Well, she pulled the ball back and then stood there with her foot on the ball, she put her hands on her hips and shot a little smile to all of us on the sideline. I'm telling you, she had all of us in stitches and nobody on the field had a clue what to think. Then, she dribbled throught the little huddle and ended up scoring. I wish I had that on video!!

Schuyler had a few incidenst this past week. She had her first bee sting = ( We - the kids and I- had just arrived at the grocery store and were unloading when in flew a bee into the van. So, with Eli in tow, I was swatting it with McKenzie's lunch box. Schuyler thought she would take care of it and tried smacking it with her hand. Well, she got it but it gave her a little sting! On Saturday, the girls attended a bday party. Schuyler came home with a swollen black eye - not terrible though. Evidentally, she ran into a door handle!

Eli, who has always been a climber has figured out how to get out of his pak-n-play at daycare as well as his crib at home. Now, the pak-n-play is one thing but the crib has much taller sides. He is very flexible and strong and these 2 characteristics put together is what allows him to climb out. Mark and I are at a loss as to what we should do. McKenzie was the same way and we put her in a toddler bed at 15 months! To this day, she still does not have the best sleeping habits - she likes to crawl into our bed and it takes her a long time to fall asleep. So, although part of her sleeping problems stem from an early toddler bed, there are other factors as well. We just don't want to make the same mistakes again. We are open to suggestions if you have any!

Happy belated mother's day to all of you out there. We had a nice, relaxing day. Mark smoked some ribs, we played outdoors, had some icecream in the afternoon and enjoyed the soccer game in the evening = )

4 gorgeous cousins!

2008-05-07T08:09:00.002-05:00

Wowzers! Are these kids stunning or what!! This was my first outdoor session of the year and the weather couldn't have cooperated more! Can you guess which kids are in which family? = ) B and S - it was a delight to photograph your kids and I enjoyed catching up! Hope you enjoy the sneak peak!! The rest will be done soon.

Birthday Images Overload

2008-05-06T08:05:00.003-05:00

As promised here are some candids from Schuyler's 6th bday party. Can you tell we had A LOT of fun?

In yoga we are instructed to do an inversion once a day, it's good for your heart. We definitely supported that theory. Here is Schuyler and McKenzie hangin' upside down!

Let's not forget the slides! You can go solo or with some friends = ) The first picture is Schuyler's friend Madysn and the 2nd is Paaka, Schuyler, and McKenzie.

Guess where Eli spent a lot of his time. Mainly the basketball court, although he did enjoy the bounce house, too! Here is the little sport along with Schuyler's friend Alexi.

At home, Mark was being a little silly with his cake. Well, monkey see, monkey do...

Shhh, don't tell my parents about this = )

Schuyler opening her presents and giving her guests a little love...

Our first exposure to High School Musical...

Last, but certainly not least, the prized yellow and red soccer ball cake made by your's truly = )

Whew! Told you there was a lot of pics!

I also need to give shout out to my mother-in-law and my father. Thanks to them, for picking up the kids and taking care of them last Thursday while Mark was out of town so I could attend my first ever photography seminar! I was able to meet up with one of my photofriends, Holly, and I go to meet a new photofriend = )

Sunrise

2008-04-30T14:46:00.003-05:00

I took this picture Thanksgiving 2006 at my aunt's house in Juniata, NE, right off her porch. I profess that I am NOT a landscape photographer and have a lot to learn in this area but hopefully this image will give you a feeling of the beautiful sunrise we experienced that a.m. I love Lincoln. It's not too big and I'm comfortable here, it's been my home since I was 5. But I love rural Nebraksa as well and being on a farm. I remember all the wonderful memories of staying at my grandparent's house on the farm. I think it's great that we still have relatives who live in the "country" that we can visit so our kids can hopefully have some of the same memories. We are heading there on Saturday = )

I really want to share some pics of the birthday extravaganza but haven't had time!! The kids got to bed late on Sunday, Mark started golf league on Monday and left for Texas yesterday for the week. So, it's busy. For now, I'll share some highlights and the pictures will eventually follow. We survived the sleepover! We started the evening at Lost in Fun - a new indoor playland with huge play sets (like you would find outdoors), 3 bouncehouses, basketball, glow in the dark putt-putt, and things for little guys like Eli - ball pit, sand box, little play houses. As we were getting ready they had a really cool bubble machine where bubbles would fall from the ceiling! Kids were dancing in them and trying to catch them or clap them. The owners and staff are wonderful and the food was excellent. We thought for sure this would tire the kids out. Uh, not so much! I had 5 silly, giggly girls in the van with me and Mark had Eli. Once home, we had soccerball cupcakes and opened presents. Then, the real fun began. Getting the girls to get ready for bed, brush teeth, and call parents if necessary (or, 2 of the parents called us = ) Lights were out by 9:00 but not asleep until 10:00! We had one girl who was sad and cried, Madysn. We tried bringing her upstairs, giving her something to cuddle and called her parents for the 2nd time at 9:50 and I honestly didnt' think she would make it. Mack would not stop talking so I told her she could sleep with mommy ;-) Schuyler and her soccer/church bud, Paaka, are 2 peas in a pod! While upstairs with Madysn, I came back down to find them in the bathroom giggling! After re-tucking everybody back in bed I laid with them and they finally all fell asleep. I put Mack in her bed but at 4:40 a.m., Mack and Madysn couldn't sleep so I through them in bed with me and kicked Mark onto the couch. All were up at 7:00 a.m.!

Well, if that wasn't enough excitement we had a little incident with Sadie. The girls had all been picked up, Mark had left to help a friend with a project, and I had just got Eli to nap so it was now time to break into one of the new craft kits Schuyler had received. As we were making crowns I noticed Sadie pawing at the back door. I didn't think anything of it b/c she usually does this, but then I noticed a big mark on her face. Poor Sadie had a nasty cut on her face and I knew it needed to be looked at it. I don't handle these things well and did the best I could to clean it with Mack crying because she didn't want Sadie to die! I assured her that Sadie wasn't dying and she may need stitches. Well, this settled her some but she was still very upset. Luckily, Mark's parents were close and once they got there I took Sadie to the emergency vet hospital. The cut was very superficial and although it was bad, stitches were not required. They shaved some of the fur to verfiy and cleaned her up real well. It still looks yucky and she will have a scar but we are so thankful it's not anything worse!

Sunday, we celebrated with family. Schuyler chose a red and yellow, lemon soccer ball cake. Actually, it turned out more like hot pink and yellow but still very cute. She has been enjoying all her presents. If all this had not been enough, I spaced treats for school. So, Monday night we make some healthy oatmeal cookies and she took those yesterday.

Okay, probably more than you wanted/needed to know. I'll try to follow up with the pictures, which will be much more exciting then just words = )