Days of our 6 Lives

A relaxing Easter.....

2009-04-13T06:36:00.000-07:00

April 12, 2009 - Easter Sunday was relaxing and a lot of fun! The kids got up at 7:00am and went right to their baskets. By the time I got up at 7:30, the boys had their lightsabers out and were fighting with them. I had to put batteries in them so that they made noise. Madison was going crazy since she got soccer goals and needed them put together and taken outside so she could play with her stuff. It did look like the kids were enjoying their candy, though!! LOL!

Here are the three kids enjoying their toys:

Here is Madison with her box, poor girl!!!:

Keegan was still sleeping during all these fun times, but he did get up later and was able to enjoy opening his Easter basket stuff.

Later in the day when it got a bit warmer, Trav put Madison's goals together. The four of them went outside and played a game of soccer. I was inside after putting Keegan down for his nap and snuck some pictures. Love the goalies with their lightsabers!!!

Here is Madison schooling Daddy:

Later in the day, Daddy pulled Madison's second loose tooth. It was the one on the bottom next to the one she lost first. Now we have to get her to wiggle her two top front teeth as the adult ones are coming in behind those and pushing them out. Wonder what the tooth fairy will bring her.

After a non-traditional dinner of tacos, I took Keegan and went to Mass at 6pm. The kids stayed home with Daddy as they go back to school tomorrow and Braden has been a bit cranky today. Mass was AMAZING!!! I LOVE our church. I even called Carolyn during the service so she could hear the music as we had talked earlier about how the girls had loved our church and the amazing music we have. Then after Mass, I decided to spoil myself and went to Wendy's and had a chocolate shake.

All in all, a very relaxing and fun Easter. We had time as a family, fun and of course, Mass to thank God for giving us His Son. It was definitely a good day and reminded me of what is important - our faith, our family and the love we share with others! Hope you had a blessed Easter!

Where are the eggs?

2009-04-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

April 11, 2009 - Today we hung around the house doing absolutely nothing! It was fun to spend the last weekend of spring break just enjoying not being on a schedule.

Sandie called me and invited us to their neighborhood to do an Easter Egg Hunt. I decided since we weren't going to the one Kami told us about due to the wetness from last night's rain, we would definitely be up for doing this one. We got to Sandie's and Trav got to meet Steve and the rest of the kids. Then, we walked to the cul de sac and the neighbors set up the hunt. Madison was with the 6 and over group and Ashton and Braden were with the 5 and unders. Madison ran around and picked up the 25 eggs they were allowed. The boys ran around and picked up their eggs (no limit). Ashton's bucket was brimming with colorful eggs. Braden kept getting to an egg, picking it up and opening it to see if there was anything in it. Of course, all the eggs had little treats in them so I kept pushing him to just pick up the eggs! He seemed to get the idea and from then on, ran around gathering eggs into his bucket. At the end of the hunt, the kids took all the treats out of their eggs and gave the eggs back. For the eggs, they got another handful of candy. It was a lot of fun! After the hunt, the kids played with Steven, Nicki, Erika and Loukas a while before we left.

We were pretty hungry after the hunt so we stopped for dinner at McDonald's. The kids had so much fun climbing in the tunnels and sliding down the slides. Trav had just as much fun chasing the kids and pretending he was going to go in the playplace and get them! I had a blast watching him play with the kids! They had so much fun!

We left there and came home so the kids could relax and play for a while before bed. I went shopping for a couple last minute Easter things. I then went to Kami's and scrapped the night away. I got Carolyn's birthday card done and finally started to really work on a couple pages that have been giving me trouble. I can't wait to get them done! I got home in time for the Easter Bunny to visit and then crashed as it was about 4am!

Wednesday - Improvement, but still not wonderful!

2009-04-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

April 8, 2009 - Carolyn, Tori and Amber had to stay an extra day to recover from being sick. Not the reason I wanted them to extend their stay, but at least they got a chance to rest and recover a little.

However, today didn't start out the best for Carolyn who around midnight was awakened by Amber throwing up on Madison's floor. Poor girl...we were REALLY hoping she would not get this yucky sickness! She was up every hour or so throwing up. We all knew how she felt...such a terrible sickness this has been for everyone. Everyone else seemed to do fine except for Ashton who threw up one more time during the night. Tori, Keegan and I slept in the living room and slept pretty well. Ashton, Madison and Trav slept in our room and they did ok until Ashton came downstairs, threw up and then slept with Keegan and I on the couch. Amber and Carolyn tried to sleep in Ashton's room but I don't think either got too much sleep.

This morning wasn't so bad...Madison, Braden and Ashton all had appetites again and had breakfast. Carolyn, Tori and I, though we felt a lot better than yesterday, just didn't feel like eating quite yet. We took turns doing laundry, taking care of Amber, chatting, watching Disney movies, playing Guitar Hero, doing dishes, and playing with the kids. Around noon, Carolyn, Tori and I decided that we were HUNGRY - we wanted to eat. So, we ordered food from O'Charley's. Carolyn and I shared a club sandwich (no honey mustard and no tomatoes for her, extra tomatoes and no honey mustard for me!!!) and potato soup and Tori had a cheeseburger and french fries. After we ate, we were all stuffed since we hadn't really eaten since CiCi's on Monday. But boy did it feel good to eat!!!

Carolyn started talking about the fact that it might work out for them to leave today and drive for 5 hours or so so that tomorrow they didn't have to drive the whole way. I didn't really want to think about them leaving...I was really enjoying having them here...but I knew that they had to do what they had to do. So, after Amber woke up from her nap, Carolyn asked if she felt like traveling a bit today and she said she could. I helped Carolyn get their stuff together and Tori and her packed the Envoy. Right when she moved the Envoy to pack it up, Amber ran to the bathroom with bowl in hand and I thought for sure that they would not be leaving. But, Amber turned out to be okay and they decided to hit the road.

After all was packed, the kids and all of us took some pictures outside before they left. Keegan even decided to wake from his nap to wish them goodbye and a safe trip home. So, here is a picture of Carolyn with all the kids before they left.

They left at 4:30. Right after the pictures and as they were getting in the Envoy, Madison came over to me and started crying. I knelt down to her, holding her and Keegan and we both cried. Carolyn came over to us crying and we hugged again before saying goodbye. I love having people visit, but I HATE having them leave. Madison talked about how she felt about them leaving - like she had to work out her feelings to be okay with it as they pulled down the road and out of sight.

I am so sad that they left, but so thankful that they were able to come visit. I really miss my sister and my nieces. It was wonderful to spend some time with them again. I am also holding on to the fact that I will see them again at the end of June. I can't wait!

Safe travels, sis, Tori and Amber. We all miss you already!!!

Tuesday - ok...today really sucks!!!

2009-04-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

April 7, 2009 - Why is it that ever time someone comes to visit us, everyone gets sick???? Last time, Mom and Dad and some of us got sick. This time, Carolyn, Tori and all of us get sick! It started late last night with Madison throwing up. Shortly thereafter, Keegan started throwing up. In the middle of the night, Ashton, Carolyn and I all started. It was awful! Ashton and Madison started sleeping upstairs in my room but after Ashton had thrown up a few times on the bed and the floor, they came downstairs and slept on the couches. I spent the night with Keegan on my lap in the blue chair making sure I caught him when he threw up by using a bowl and trying to make sure I got to the bathroom when I needed to throw up or poop. I also had to make sure Madison and Ashton got up when they needed to. I can't remember how many puke messes I had to clean up! It was not fun! I don't think any of us got much sleep - especially Madison and I. Carolyn was also suffering upstairs, though Tori and Amber seemed ok.

Unfortunately, just after Tori woke up, she started throwing up, too. Amber was the only one who didn't get it. Thank God!!! She was a lifesaver! With trying to take care of all the sick kids, doing tons of laundry because of people getting sick all over everything, and not having any energy, Amber was invaluable. She ran to get drinks, made the kids lunch (seems they got over their sickness in about 12 hours), and just took care of all of us. Carolyn, Tori and I seemed to get hit the worst...ours lasted ALL DAY!!! We barely could move - we were so sore and were throwing up and having the poops so bad. Each of us said this was the worst sickness we have had in a long time. Personally, I hope that it is the only one I have for a very long time!

Luckily, Madison and Braden seemed fine...even Ashton who only threw up a couple more times during the day. Keegan, Tori, Carolyn and I suffered all day. We hoped that tomorrow would be a much better day!

Oh, no pictures today...figured I would save you from the horrid sights, sounds and smells that emulated from the house today!

Monday...the first day of a whirlwind

2009-04-08T13:53:00.000-07:00

April 6, 2009 - Today started out okay, but never seemed to end. We got up not knowing what we were going to do. We took it easy and hung around the house. It was a rather busy and somewhat tiring weekend so we really weren't that anxious to start out running today. Of course, the kids had to play Guitar Hero. They have been having tons of fun battling and also just playing two player on the new and old games.

We got up, slowly got ourselves together and then decided to go to the thrift store. We ran to Kami's to pick up the pics she had scanned so that Carolyn could take the ones to Mom and Dad, Eric, Keith and the ones for her. We headed to the store and Carolyn got to enjoy the joys of taking my four to a store! It was insane! I did get a chance to shop a bit and picked up some clothing for Ashton and Keegan. Carolyn got some clothes and books for Tori. We also ran into Sandie while there who was there with Erika. Between the three of us, it was doable! Amber took the kids while I shopped, I took the kids while they tried stuff on, Sandie took the kids while I shopped some more, I rode the kids around while I shopped...it was over an hour to maybe 2 of shopping chaos with 6 kids and 2 adults!

After we left the store, we decided to go to CiCi's for dinner. I called Trav on the way to see if he was going to be able to go, but he was tied up at work and didn't know what time he would be out. Thank God we didn't wait as he didn't get home until 6:30 or so that night. Everyone seemed to enjoy CiCi's. We all ate well...the kids ate their favorites and Carolyn, Tori and Amber all tried different pizzas and of course the cinnamon rolls and brownies.

Here is a random pic of Keegan just enjoying himself.

We got home from CiCi's and it was back to just chilling out. Carolyn and I talked about the sheet mom sent to use as a curtain and Carolyn cut it in half so we could hang it. We decided we needed a curtain rod and that we would get one someplace else since we didn't find one at the thrift store today. Can't wait to see how they look hanging in the office!

Of course, the night ended in a way that none of us wanted....Madison, Keegan, Ashton, Carolyn and I all got sick. Yuck! We hope that this is just a 12 hour thing like it was with Braden on Sunday. Wish us luck with that!

Sunday...a day of rest...or is it???

2009-04-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

April 5, 2009 - Today really started out like any other Sunday. The kids woke up early, played video games, watched TV, and just hung out and played. However, Braden woke up and shortly thereafter, threw up in my hands near the downstairs bathroom. He threw up quite a few more times, too. Poor little guy!!!

The rest of the kids got up and of course, started playing Guitar Hero again. We let them play until it was time to get ready for church. We left Braden home with Trav and we went to noon Mass...Carolyn couldn't wait for the girls to see our church...and I forgot to even ask them how they liked it or what they thought of it. We came home and the kids and I ate leftover Wendy's, M&C, and other leftovers for lunch. Carolyn took the girls out to Beef o"Brady's as Tori wanted to go there really bad! The kids went back to playing Guitar Hero and I watched them, took care of the little ones and just hung out.

After a while, I put Keegan down for his nap. While I was up with him, Carolyn came back. Amber went outside to play with the kids and Carolyn started to work in the yard by the mailbox. When I came down from putting Keegan for his nap, I went out there and started working with her. It was fun to be outside in the nice weather again. Trav came out, too, and our whole family worked out there together. The kids had fun cutting the crabgrass with the clippers, digging in the dirt with the shovels, and using the garden weasel. Keegan even came out after his nap and sat in the grass checking everything out! We cleared a lot of weeds from the part right by the mailbox and talked about what to do there. We even moved some dirt from that area to under the driveway where there was a gap. I think we got it packed in really well, but I am going to watch it to make sure. I hope that was enough to stop the driveway from cracking. It started to rain, so we had to go back inside.

Later, we got Sonic for dinner. It was the first time Carolyn, Tori and Amber had eaten there. Carolyn and Tori were so full from their lunch that they just got a slush and a shake respectively. I think Carolyn fell in love with the Sonic slushes! The rest of us ate our dinner. We all hung out, played more Guitar Hero, and the kids eventually went to bed.

Later, Carolyn, Tori and Amber met Scott Webb at a local ColdStone, but they didn't even have ice cream...I know, what a sacrilege. They ended up going to the Melting Pot instead and having chocolate fondue with all sorts of yummy things. Sounded great! They got back and we hung out a bit and crashed in bed.

Saturday - Woah, am I tired!!!

2009-04-06T04:48:00.000-07:00

April 4, 2009 - After crashing in bed late last night, I am super tired today! Had to get up at 7am to get ready for Madison's soccer game. Got everyone up and ready except Trav as he is still not feeling well. Everyone is kind of zombie like as we all went to bed so late.

Madison's game was awesome! They won by a score of 12-3 (it was actually 12-2, but the other team mom insisted that they scored 3 goals so I conceeded). Madison scored 2, yes TWO, goals! She hustled so much on the field. She went for the ball, she passed it, and she went for goals! It was an awesome game! And, it was even more impressive since there were only 5 kids there - Francisco, Elisa, Madison, Anthony and John. This coming week they don't have any practices or games because of spring break.

After her game, we just came home and vegged at home for a bit. We had some lunch and then did the cake and ice cream thing. I opened my presents - got a shirt and a video of St. Therese from Mom and Dad, a card from Eric and Beth and a card and money for a Mega Millions ticket from Carolyn and Jim. Then, the kids played a ton of Guitar Hero. They also played with the toys and stuff.

Keegan broke both his top teeth today. Carolyn mentioned last night that she could see them coming, but today they actually broke all the way through. That explains a lot - diaper rash, cranky baby, chewing. I can't believe that he isn't even 11 months and he is well on his way to having all 4 of his front teeth. My baby is growing up too fast!
For dinner, Carolyn, Tori, Keegan, Braden and I drove around Kennesaw looking for something that sounded good. We ended up of all places at Wendy's per Braden's request. We brought that back for everyone. While we were gone, Trav took Amber, Ashton and Madison to the park to play basketball. They came back with red faces and big smiles so I know they had fun. After dinner, the kids played outside a bit and then Carolyn, Amber, Madison, Keegan and I took a walk to the park, to the mansion and then back home. It was a beautiful night for a stroll. Carolyn loved seeing all the bushes and flowers blooming. Not something she sees right now in Michigan. We came back and just hung out, talked and had fun before going to bed. It was a great day with lots of fun!!!

It's my birthday.....

2009-04-05T04:43:00.000-07:00

and I'll clean if I want to!!!!

Friday was my birthday...a big 33...and I spent most of the day cleaning. After I took the kids to school and got Braden and Keegan settled, I started cleaning and doing laundry. See, my seester and her girls were coming to visit so I wanted to have as much done before the weekend as I could.

Madison was the very first to wish me a happy birthday by simply saying, Mom, it's your birthday!" I'll take that. I also got an ecard from Carolyn, greetings online from Nej, Shawna, Teresa, Staci, Nancy, Maraline and all the girls on Scrapbook Lane, from Melissa Hinds Vandale, Angela Jaskulka, Marrisa, Sandie, and of course Mom and Dad, Eric and his family, Keith and his family, and Carolyn and the girls.

I got my first present around 4pm. Trav lined up the kids. Braden handed me a birthday card from them. Then, Trav said here is your birthday present. The kids said the following when Trav touched them. Madison said, "Kilpatricks", Braden said, "dot", and Ashton said, "info". So, I went to check out this "Kilpatricks.info" and low and behold, Trav started a website for us with a scrapbook gallery, a photo gallery and a blog area. I am so excited!!!! I have wanted a website forever...especially with us living so far from family and friends now. I can't wait until I can put some things up on it. Probably after Carolyn and the girls leave.

Speaking of, they got here around 4:45pm on Friday. When they got here, Madison and Ashton were playing the new Guitar Hero (World Tour) that Trav had bought yesterday. So, I grabbed my camera and ran outside and grabbed this photo.

Then, they came in...I went to the living room to take a pic of the kids playing so they wouldn't know what was going on and Carolyn, Tori and Amber walked in. So, I snapped this pic of the kids' reaction.

Loved Madison's face! We just hung out for a while talking and having the kids show the girls around the house. Then, we went to dinner at Olive Garden (Yummy!!!). It was fun! I had the most yummy Seafood Portofino and everyone else seemed to enjoy their dinners. We came home, but were too stuffed to eat cake and ice cream so decided to hold off on all the other birthday festivities until tomorrow. We crashed around 11pm.

It was my best birthday in a LONG time! Having my sister and nieces here to celebrate with me was the best present. I am so thankful that they were able to come visit during spring break. A great way to start out my 34th year.

1-14-09 Wednesday

2009-01-14T21:21:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday morning, January 14, 2009, Keegan got his first tooth! Oh boy am I in trouble now!!! He has been chewing on things feverishly for a while now. Even the doctor at his appointment on Monday said that he has a couple teeth that will be in soon. However, I had no idea that she meant this soon! He is only 7.5 months! It blows me away! Madison was 4 months older before she got her first one. And I think the next one is coming soon. Yikes!

Here is a pic of us trying to get a pic of the tooth...it obviously didn't work:

Also today, Braden was so darn cute! He has this fascination with his shadow. So, this morning (January 14), be was dancing to the Doodlebops and Yo Gabba Gabba (his two favorite shows) in the living room and watching his shadow dance on the couch. I got some great pics. He has been doing this type of thing for a couple months. About a week or so ago, Trav got him on video dancing at night with his shadow in the hallway from the light that we leave on for the kids in the bathroom. It was totally cute! I love the way he plays and the littlest things amuse him.

Here is an adorable picture of him dancing....I laughingly call him my Peter Pan.

A pretty fun day and pretty eventful. Love these guys!!!

They're gone..... :-(

2008-11-28T03:22:00.000-08:00

Well, it is the day after Thanksgiving and my parents just left to go to Virginia and then home. Wow! It really feels lonely and it has only been about 1 minute. The reality of being in Georgia...12 hours from my family....is really setting in right now. I have been up mostly since 1:30 not able to sleep...thinking of what it is going to be like without them being around. I feel awful!

Mom said that she has had a lot of years with her kids around and everyone together. I feel like we totally screwed that up now. I used to not understand why Carolyn wanted to move, but I do love it here. If I could just move my family here, I'd be completely happy. Every time I hear how much Zach misses Ashton or my kids ask when they are going to see their cousins again, my heart splits in two. I feel so awful that we are now so far apart. I never thought I would be the one to move away. I never WANTED to move away...and here I am...away and there's nothing I can do about it. All I can do is hold on to the fact that I will see Carolyn and Jim in December, Risa in January and Mom and Dad again in February or March. What am I going to do without them stopping over just to say hi. Or being able to go to their house with the kids after church. Or having holidays at their house. Get the kids together to play. See the work Eric has done on the houses. Spend birthdays celebrating with the whole family. I am going to miss all that. I don't know how to handle it.

I guess I just have to deal with it. I guess I just have to go on with life...be a mom to my kids, a wife to my husband. I guess I just have to talk to them when I can on the phone, video chat on the computer, send emails and letters, and cherish the times we will be able to spend together. They say, "You don't know what you have until it's gone." I don't agree...I have always known that I have the most wonderful family in the world...but now that I am so far away, I suffer from the ache of emptiness, from them not being right here, so much more. I miss you all and wish we could all be together again. I love you all and am SO thankful that I can call you family.

I'm officially a Georgia Peach!!!

2008-11-18T19:00:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official! I am a Georgia peach. How? you ask. Today, I went to the DMV and surrendered my Michigan driver's license (really, they took it and wouldn't give it back!) and got a new Georgia one. Trav and I both went (he took some time off this morning) and we took the boys. It was a fiasco of sorts.

First, getting ready and out the door took a lot longer than either of us expected. Hey, if I was going to get my picture taken for my license, I was going to look as good as I could. So, I took a shower, did my hair and actually did my makeup!!! Woah, I know! I didn't just have to get me ready....no...I had to get the boys ready too! Finally, at about 11:30, we all climbed into the car with documents galore in hand (hmmm...marriage license, MI driver's licenses, mortgage bill, birth certificates and social security cards!). Unfortunately, we forgot to grab the directions to get to the office. We headed out toward AAA to get our insurance transferred, but found out we didn't need to go there, we could do it all over the phone. So, we needed to get to the DMV. We stopped at a DUI place to get directions and about 20 minutes later were headed to the office.

Got to DMV at 12:25 and Trav stood in line in the 30 degree cold while the boys and I stayed in the car until he was about to enter the building (they only allow 5 people in at a time so everyone else has to wait outside! 8) ) We got in there and eventually got checked in...and almost as soon as I got checked in, I was called up. Of course, I get up there, the guy sees I don't have my form filled out and tells me to go sit and finish it. Ok..whatever. I get back up there and some lady comes to talk to him, Keegan is screaming at this point, Braden is putting his hand in the candy machine and I am tired of waiting! About a year later (well...it seemed that long), another lady took the guy's place...(who am I to delay his break???? Ughhh...) and got things going. When that was done, off to wait to have our pics taken.

Decided to take my coat off to get my pic taken....BIG mistake. Thought I took a decent pic, UNTIL I got it back! My smile is good, but it shows my double chin (Can we say motivation to diet???!!!) AND my shirt is almost off my right shoulder showing my bra strap and the string of my scapular. UGGHHHHH....I can NEVER take a good pic. Oh well, it is now 1:30 and I just don't care anymore!!! We get in the car and head home. At least we are official, eh?

Oh, and we aren't done...we still have to get our tags, titles and license plates. I sure hope that that is not as big of an adventure!

What a month July was.....

2008-08-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

What a month! What a totally crazy, busy, sad, exciting month!

First, we found out that we had a purchase agreement on our house. We made a counter offer and they accepted it. So, we get to keep the washer and dryer and the ceiling fans from the kids' rooms. They are also paying us $3000 more than they originally offered, but it is still significantly lower than our asking price as it is FHA and we have to pay closing costs for them as well as for us. We did have to have Joe come over and do some repairs based on the inspection. We had to buy $158 worth of aluminum, caulk, and nails for him to rip the aluminum and attach it below where the siding ended to better waterproof the foundation. At least that was the only fix that needed to be done.

Then, I found out that our closing day would be July 22. I had a week to get the house prepared and moved. Luckily, Tina, Brad and Don came to help us pack and move from Reformers Unanimous. Also, Mom, Dad, and Carolyn came over to help as well. It took us a full 7 days to get everything packed and to the two storage facilities. They are both VERY full. It also convinced me that we definitely need a moving company to move us from Saginaw to Georgia. I was very lucky, though, that Sue let us take the kids to her house while we did the packing, moving and cleaning. Without them gone for those last 6 days, we would have never been able to accomplish what we did. I was left only with Keegan which was work enough. It was hard to be without the kids...they were fine, though, after the first night. I was glad that I was so busy and thus so tired at the end of the day which allowed me not to dwell on the fact that they were gone.

Now, I am shuffling between my mom and dad's house and Sue and Chris's house. It is so funny being with Mom and Dad as even as a married, 32 year old with 4 kids, Mom still makes me feel like a kid. She cooks, cleans, does my laundry and just generally takes care of me. Dad takes the kids on walks, to the zoo, to the playground and outside to play basketball which gives me a break. At my MIL's, I guess since I didn't grow up in the house, it feels different. I love my MIL as a mom, but it is still less comfortable. Of course, it doesn't help that there are two other kids over each day so that the house is full of 2 adults, 1 7-year old, 1 6.5-year old, 1 5-year old, 1 2.5-year old, 1 20-month old, and 1 11-week old. So, the two of us are outnumbered 3:1! Keeps us both pretty busy. But I am comfortable enough to cook lunches, dinners, do laundry, straighten up and just live like this is almost my house. I guess Sue talked to my mom the other day and they said they would share us so that we would spend 2 weeks in Saginaw and 2 weeks in Battle Creek! LOL! I guess they both need a break from the 5 of us!

Trav is busy out looking at houses. It is pretty scary but also exciting. We won't be able to get the best schools nor the largest house on our budget, but I am sure that we can find something that will be perfect for us. I am trying to not spend a lot right now so that this month we spend without a house payment and utilities, that we can save the money toward moving or a down payment. I would love to win the lottery about now so that I could stop worrying about finances, help out my sister so they could move, help out my BIL so they could get their house renovations done, Eric and Beth to get them out of the hole, and my MIL to help them get out of debt too. That will never happen, but it is a nice dream!

I am now going back to help with the 6 kids. Been at the computer looking through houses and messing around long enough.

Some crazy days of summer....

2008-07-14T14:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have made it this far...I am sure I can make it the rest of the way...especially since there is only a week more before we move out of this house. This is what is stressing me right now...I have a week to pack up the entire house and get the kids and I ready to move in with Sue and Chris. I am glad that I will be able to spend time with them and have the kids spend time with their grandparents before moving, but moving is a huge pain in the arse! I am hoping that I can recruit some help in packing and moving this week and weekend...heck, maybe even be done with the house by Sunday. That would be wonderful! Not practical, most likely, but it would be wonderful!

Today, I was planning on packing with Tina's help, but instead ended up watching Cailyn, Austin and Jordan. Of course, I did get to go rent a storage facility and pick up milk with just Keegan in tow, so that was nice. Just hoping that Tina will be able to come over tomorrow or maybe Mom. I just need help at this point getting packing and stuff done. Waiting to see what kind of help I will get and from whom.

Just praying now that things will get done and I will be able to relax in a week or two. Wish me luck....and sanity!!!

Uggghhhhhh...what a day!!!

2008-01-27T13:18:00.000-08:00

I had the WORST day yesterday!!! Maybe it was because I posted on my moodiness, but I sure was moody yesterday. I got in a fight with mom on the phone talking about how sick I get of there being favorite kids in the family...how no one seems to think that maybe I don't feel well (it is always someone else), or that I need help (it is always the spouse of someone else), or that I don't need anyone to watch the kids for me (it is always the daycare). I started crying on the phone and had to hang up. Then, just as I was leaving to cart all 3 of the kids to Hobby Lobby, JoAnn's and Walmart, Mom and Dad pulled up saying they told me they would be over to stay with the kids so I could run errands. I just told them don't worry about it and took off. While at Walmart, they called and said they put off helping a sibling so we could go to church together. I told them I didn't know if I would make it, but would try. I ended up making it and it was fine. I apologized to Mom and she said no biggy...we all have bad days. I just wish they would realize how much favoritism two of the kids get while the other two of us don't. It really bugs me.

After church (which was a nightmare due to the kids misbehaving), was great! We just hung around the house, had nachos for dinner then watched Spiderman 3. I went to bed feeling much better than I had.

Also, noticed something totally gorgeous last night. It snowed and it was sparkly. I looked at the sparkles and noticed that each one was a perfect star with 6 sides...perfectly formed and gorgeous. They totally reflected the light and sparkled and glimmered. It was beautiful! I stood out in the snow looking at it for a few minutes just inspecting the many flakes I could see. I have never experienced such perfect beauty in a snowfall as I did seeing the streetlights glimmer off the snow like they did.

After I came back in the house, I checked on the kids and had to take pics of Ashton who looked so ADORABLE! He had fallen asleep ON his teddy bear. It is the first time EVER I have noticed him cuddling with a stuffed animal and here he was sleeping ON it! It was totally sweet and I am so glad I got pics of it! Can't wait to scrap those!

So, my uggghhhh day ended on good notes..thank goodness!

Woah!!! Moods and more!

2008-01-26T05:35:00.000-08:00

Hmmmm....one minute I am blue....the next I am red......the next I am yellow!

Pregnancy hormones sure do a trick on me. The other day, I was sitting at the computer checking email and I went from happy, to angry, to really depressed in less than 5 minutes. It really floored me. I mean, I know that I am much more volatile right now, but I had no idea that my moods switched that quickly. I actually feel sorry for the kids since they are the ones who surely deal with the brunt of my moodiness! They seem to be taking it well, though. And, now that I am more aware of my swings, I am better prepared to keep them under control and not fly off the handle each second. I just hope it gets better and not worse...if I have to deal with another 17-18 weeks of this, it could get ugly!!!!

November 18, 2007 - Sunday

2007-11-18T14:26:00.000-08:00

It's been a few weeks since my last blog. I was pretty busy while Trav was visiting with Halloween and all and since then, I just have not had time nor inclination to blog. Later, I will try to do a review of at least the high points.

Today was a good day - at least as good as it can be taking 3 kids to the Mall while being 12 weeks pregnant and being alone! I got up and thought about the fact that I am REALLY late getting a present out to Trav for his birthday. So, I took the kids out to the Mall today to buy what I had planned on getting him - a new wallet. When he was here, I looked over his and realized that a) his was starting to get a little ragged and most importantly b) he REALLY needs to go through it and get rid of stuff he doesn't need anymore! Yeah! That made the decision on what to buy him pretty easy!!! Plus, I got the kids' school pics back so I can put one of each in his wallet so he has those. I figured that makes it more personal and a sweeter gift. ;-) I got it, put it together and now have to find a box to ship it in. Also got him birthday cards as well as birthday cards for Sue. Spoiled myself a bit with 6 pair of black socks, 3 pair of stay at home fuzzy socks and a Christmas scrapbook from Hallmark that I plan to finish as a gift. I also got the two older kids 2 pair of jeans from the Disney store and a Power Ranger costume for Braden for next Halloween! (I hope he likes Power Rangers next year!) We had lunch at the food court, cookies and pretzels for snacks and just had fun walking around. The kids did their customary "Check out Santa from afar", but would not sit on his lap. Too funny!!! Wonder if they will ever get over that? Came home and just hung out after making the kids (and myself) clean up our messes from the past couple of days. Now just trying to figure out what to make for dinner while enjoying some time to just sit and relax. Kids are playing really well together so I can enjoy myself. This won't last long...when the baby is here, ANY relax time will be a thing of the past.

Time to go watch the oldest two slow dance!!! Too cute!!!

Saturday, oh my!

2007-10-27T06:59:00.000-07:00

Well, so far so good! Today is going well. I have phones that work, kids who have eaten breakfast, laundry that is in process and a day where I have absolutely NO solid plans! I am looking forward to a day where I don't have to worry about anyone being here, having to stick to a schedule, or having to go anywhere. I also emailed Risa and she is going to stay here from tomorrow when they come visit until Wednesday. She doesn't want to intrude on Trav's visit so wants to not be here while he is here. Can't say I blame her, but that doesn't help me with babysitting so we can get out of here a couple nights while he is here. Oh well, hopefully I can find other people who will babysit for us.

Just got back from hauling 33 boxes of stuff that was packed mostly from the kitchen and my scraproom over to the storage facility. It is crazy how much stuff we have!!!! Then, no sooner had we gotten back and Mom and Dad left, but Kim called me offering Scott and another van for the afternoon! LOL! I can't bear to tell Dad!!! But, I am sure I can find other stuff that can be moved. There is so much stuff afterall...the more we get out of here, the better things will look. Just found it amusing that after all that, they would call. I can't wait for Trav to see the house. I just hope that I have it pretty spit spot before he gets home. That is my plan for the next couple of days.

I was concerned with moving all that that I could harm me or the baby. Since mom and dad don't know yet, I couldn't let on that I wasn't supposed to be moving such heavy stuff. Just hoping that we are okay. I tried to let dad do the heaviest stuff, but I am sure I lifted things that were over the 25 pound weight limit that I know as of right now I am supposed to adhere to.

Last few days reviewed

2007-10-27T06:43:00.001-07:00

Thursday - What a totally productive day!!! The ladies came over again today and were able to accomplish a lot in the kitchen. Amy cleaned the over for over 4 hours then couldn't sit still so she straightened the kids' toys and vacuumed upstairs and down. It was so awesome to have the help. I nicknamed her the Energizer Bunny as she just could not sit still! Tina was out of sorts today so I had a hard enough time getting her to wash the outside of the kitchen cupboards. At least both jobs are done so I don't have to worry about them. We also got a few extra things packed in the basement off the bookshelf area. So much more to do down there, but I am having a hard time just deciding where to start! It is pretty overwhelming. Maybe when we get the boxes to the storage facility, I will be able to see better what needs to be done.

Tony came over tonight and we were able to get the stuff needed for the phones and get some guidance from a guy at Home Depot as to how to join the Cat 5 with the existing phone wire and make it work. He did all the connectors and was pretty confident that all was well. He is confident that he can finish all the outlets for the phones (and make all of them work!) as well as put the shelf in the laundry room, build the closet in the laundry room, and finish sanding and painting our address plaque and get that back outside before Trav gets home. I am hoping to get some boxes out of here so he can see how much has been done.

Friday - Just a pretty normal day here. However, did have to take Braden to see the doctor as he is STILL sick! Found out he has an ear infection so she put him on a Z-pack. I am SOOOO hoping that this will clear things up. I also managed to get to Meijer today to pick up a few snacks and other things as well as to Kohl's to find a shirt. I want to get some new shirts that I can wear to be comfortable and casual this winter as well as that will stretch with my growing belly. Went to the Mall as well, but had to leave almost immediately upon arriving there as Braden was NOT sitting in the stroller. Did get the boys some frozen yogurt and we sat outside Macy's and ate that. It was nice to be out even if for a short while.

Braden took a really good nap and ended up sleeping through being moved from the bed to the car to pick up Madison from school. He then slept out in the car for a while while I made dinner and the other kids played with the neighbors in the backyard. I eventually let him play out back as well until dinner and then again after.

Speaking of dinner, having to cook for the ladies this week has renewed my urge to cook. I was very blah about it since Trav left as it is not much fun cooking for one adult who will enjoy the food and 3 kids who probably won't. But, getting to cook for 2 other adults was wonderful as I knew that there would be more people who would appreciate and eat the food. So, this week, I made stuffed mostacolli, tacos, and baked chicken. It was fun! Now this coming week when Trav gets home, I should also be excited to cook. This weekend, I want to put a menu together so that I can have meals planned. I know we are going to be very busy with him here, but at least he can have some good home cooking!

My first appointment update, etc.

2007-10-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

Yuck! This day started out pretty sucky!!! First, I had to wake Braden up to ride with me to take the kids to school. Then, on the way home from taking them, about 2 blocks from home, I popped a tire. I called AAA and managed to still get to my appointment on time about an hour later after walking home in 40 degree weather with Braden and I without coats. What a fun morning!!! Ugghhhh!!!!

My appointment wasn't at all what I expected. I was expecting a physical with pap and all but all we did was weight, BP, pee test, and go over my bloodwork results. Nothing special. I spilled a lot of protein today, though, so I have to go back to the lab sometime this coming week and do another test for them to double check. They want to be sure if I am getting a urinary tract infection or anything like that that they treat it immediately. She said it is very important to catch them early. I have never had this problem before so I am not sure what is going on. I also talked to her about my concerns over this pregnancy being high risk and moving, selling the house, etc. She told me she wanted me to meet with the doctor next Tuesday morning so that we could discuss what he feels is best for the baby and I. I won't be at all surprised if he says I need to stay here for the duration of my pregnancy and avoid stress as much as possible. That is nearly impossible since Trav is gone, I am stuck packing/prepping the house for sale, taking care of the kids, doing all house/yardwork, etc. My life right now is the definition of stress! Which is what terrifies me as I know that the reason I had all the problems with Braden's birth is stress. I was under horrible stress at work with converting from working FT at the office and going to 3 hours at the office and the rest at home along with taking care of 2 kids under 4 years old and being 7 months pregnant. Totally not fun!!! I just hope that things go well this time. I guess I just have to put it all in God's hands. He is the one who made this pregnancy happen so He must have a reason. Everyone says that there is a reason for everything. There must be. I hope that this baby is a complete blessing for our family and that all goes well and we end up with a gorgeous baby boy or girl and a healthy mom in the end.

I did manage to get the tire fixed on the car today after the appointment, ran to Walmart VERY quickly, and rented the storage unit. So, at least I did get some things accomplished. Also found out that not only one tire, but two needed fixing/replacing. Guess I was driving on an almost completely flat tire besides the one that actually popped! It is so hard with that car to know when the tires are getting low.

Took the kids to McDonald's tonight to play and eat. Braden ended up coughing so hard he threw up all over the floor there. So, needless to say, we left quickly. He seems fine now so I hope it was just because he was running around so much that he couldn't help but cough. I am almost sure he has asthma though he seems to still be fighting that cold. I hope he can kick it for good really soon and the rest of us can avoid getting it.

It is almost bedtime so I will end for now. Hopefully nothing else will happen tonight. Tomorrow should be a busy day as the women will be here to pack/clean and Tony will be here to work on the phone stuff and hopefully finish it up. Guess I won't get out of the house tomorrow. Oh well, there is plenty here to keep me busy!

Tuesday update

2007-10-24T10:54:00.001-07:00

Well, it was a pretty boring day overall. Ashton and Braden were home with me so we really just hung out at home and relaxed. I did get some laundry done, but that was it. I guess I just needed a break after Monday's packing day. I have planned to do errands on Wednesday as long as Beth is willing to watch Ashton after school. I love those days as it gives me all day to just have Braden and I tend to get most of my errands/shopping done that day. Glad that we have the arrangement that we have.

Tony came over and worked on the phone system again and finally got it figured out. The next day he is here, he will put the finishing touches on it and get all the rest of the wall units in place. I am glad that things are getting done so that we can get this house listed and sold. But, it is kind of like having Joe around in that his schedule is so demanding that it seems to take forever to get things done. Oh well, at least, like I said, they are getting done even if it is taking a while. I am so anxious to move and be with my husband again. Today I was pretty sappy and had to call Trav to gush all over the place to him. At least he knows that I totally miss him and love him.

Tomorrow I have my appointment with the nurse at the OB/GYN. I am kind of anxious and scared about the bloodwork that was done and about what she can tell me. Hopefully all will be well and I can relax a bit. I really don't think that I will relax through this whole pregnancy, though. I just hope that the baby and I make it through with our health intact.

Week in Review - October 16-22, 2007

2007-10-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

October 16 - Got the confirmation from Dr's office that the test came back positive. Her exact words, "Karen, you are VERY pregnant! Congratulations!". I thought that was a funny way of saying it. Wondering if she said that as I was further along than most people when they find out and so my HcG count was higher. Also went in for some bloodwork from my OB/GYN. Will find out more about the results when I have my appointment next Wednesday. Talked to Trav today and he said that he hopes I am not either on the rag or able to get pregnant when he comes to visit. Surprise coming to him, eh?

October 17 - Had my nephew and both boys today. Went to Mom and Dad's for help in switching Braden's carseat around. Ended up cleaning out the whole car. Started thinking about how nice it will be to have a van!!! Also, mom made a comment when I was talking to Casey and getting her to smile that, "you definitely don't need another one of those!" Talk about putting a knot in my stomach!!! Uggh!!! Not looking forward to telling Mom and Dad anymore than I am Trav.

October 18 - Had a crappy day as Braden is sick so I was doing breathing treatments every 4 hours and giving meds. Hope that he gets better soon.

October 19 - Braden is worse. Today met with a real estate agent. Not sure who we will ultimately list with. Liked her, though. Also today I had an appointment with Fr. Jim. Hoped that he could bring me some peace, insight and prayers. He did just that. I left feeling so much better! Carolyn came and watched the boys while I went. Ashton got to hang out with Uncle Eric and Zachary after school and went to lunch. It was nice not having all three of them here this morning. I was motivated and got some packing done. Went to the mall in the evening and had fun. The kids enjoyed it. Was able to pick up some things that I have been needing.

October 20 - Had almost every neighborhood child over. Did get to go to Scott and Kim's in the evening to enjoy a fire and smores. It was a lot of fun! It was fun to get out and just enjoy some adult company. Braden is still sick. Wish he could get over this cold. Cleaned the toilet and got sick from doing so! This morning sickness sucks!

October 21 - Today Sue, Chris and Cameron came to visit. They gave the kids their birthday gifts. The kids loved the gifts and had a blast playing with Cameron, Caelyn, Austin, Jordan and Isaac. Went to dinner at Old Country Buffet and ran into Mom, Dad, Tia Juana, and Uncle Jim. That was funny. It was nice that they got to see eachother. The kids did great at dinner - well, acted great but really were too distracted to eat much. Braden is still sick. I am getting exhausted being up all night giving him treatments. Not sure how much more I can take. Hoping that tonight I can get some sleep!

October 22 - Today, Kim called and offered a couple ladies to help pack. I was so excited to have some help!!! We got so much done!!!! Got a lot of the kitchen stuff packed as well as a lot of the scraproom stuff packed. Did at least 15 boxes. I made them stuffed manicotti, tossed salad, and cheesecake for lunch. They seemed to like it. It was nice to cook for other adults again for once. Also had Zachary over and he played with Ashton and Braden until I had to pick Madison up from school. Caelyn came over when I had to run him home/pick up Madison so that the ladies could stay and continue to work. Tony came over and did some work around the house. I am really starting to see some improvement with things. Can't wait to see the house "show ready"!

That was my week. Trying to at least write something each day. Just don't get on the computer all that much anymore. Wonder why????

Holy crap!!!!!

2007-10-16T01:33:00.000-07:00

I'm pregnant again!!!!!!

Now the whole story....yesterday morning, I decided to take a home pregnancy test. See, I haven't had a period since before Trav moved so I thought I would just check things out. I bought a test about a week ago but have kept putting off taking it since I took one last time I was late at Trav's request and was negative. I thought this time, like last time, it was just my cycle being screwed up due to all the stress of getting ready to move and stuff. Well, turns out that was part of it, but not all of it. So, I got up in the morning at 7:00am and immediately locked myself in the bathroom to do the test. Did it and set it up on the windowsill to wait. Checked it a few minutes later and there was one dark line and one faint line. Immediately started freaking out!!!!! Decided to call at 8:00am to the doctor and have her order a serum test. So, got the kids ready and off to school all the while freaking out. Got back home with the baby and called the doctor. They told me to go to the lab mid-morning as the request would be there by then. So, took shower, ate breakfast, played with the baby, called my sister freaking out, etc. Around 10:30am, went to the lab. Asked when I would have the results and they told me tomorrow (today). So here I am at 4:40am, Tuesday, October 16 wondering when I will get the call. I also called and scheduled an appointment with my OB/GYN for next week and have to go in to the lab again today to get a qualitative and quantitative test and a fasting blood glucose level today. So, been fasting since about 6pm with just a few sips of water. That's really okay since I am experiencing nausea this time. Which reminds me.....

I was totally clueless that this could be possible for a few reasons. First, I was sure that we were safe when we had sex. The doctor's office said that stress can definitely alter when you ovulate so I just ovulated earlier than I normally would have. So, according to my calculations of when I was safe, I WAS safe! My body just totally messed with me....and here I am. Secondly, during all three of my other pregnancies, my first symptoms were breast tenderness and dizziness. I have had NEITHER of those. And, I swear....those were the first two things I felt EVERY OTHER TIME! So, I was confident that my period was just late due to stress....since I am under tons of stress with the move, the kids, Trav being gone. Looking back, the fatigue I have been feeling makes sense now. So does the cramping around the time I thought I should be getting my period. And, the crankiness (though I conveniently forgot about how moody pregnancy hormones make you at first)! And now, I am blessed with nausea though I never had it during any of the other pregnancies.

So, besides being blessed with these fun symptoms, I am totally freaking out about this whole pregnancy. See, we thought we were done having children. I just got done having garage sales where I sold EVERYTHING baby related - the crib, the baby carseat (last year even), the pack-n-play, all clothes that are too small for Braden as well as all baby girl clothes, all my reference books, etc. Thankfully, I took the test before I took my maternity clothes to the resale store or listed the breastpumps on Ebay. I am going to take a few more things to AAI to donate, but am keeping the Boppy and a couple infant toys I was going to donate as well as my maternity clothes. I am also freaking out because of how Braden's birth was. I am totally terrified that I will have problems again. Even the doctor mentioned this and said that I would be "monitored closely". What happens if something happens to the baby or to ME? I would never have chosen to put myself or my family in the position where something could happen and they would lose me. This is my biggest fear. Even though I always said I wanted four children, since Braden's birth, I swore he would be the last for fear that something worse than a premie happen next time. Here I am totally freaking out because now I have to live those fears and not just imagine the possibility. I am praying so hard that God keeps me and the baby safe and that this pregnancy turns out to be as good as Madison's or Ashton's. I don't want to leave my husband without a wife nor my children without a mother. I am SOOOOOO scared right now. I am totally scared, also, to tell Trav. He has sworn for so long that he did NOT want another child. He even mentioned how he was as serious as divorce over the issue. Not that he would divorce me, necessarily, but that he was dead serious about being done. So now I am terrified to tell him and wondering when I should. I am planning on waiting to tell him when he comes back to visit. I am hoping that he will know that I did NOT do this on purpose, that I am terrified about this whole pregnancy, and that I DESPERATELY need his support to make it through this in addition to all I am going through besides. I have been praying that God would intervene for me and give us both peace and take care of all of us through this. I am thinking about going and talking to Father (and was thinking about it before I even found out I was pregnant - just to talk to someone about the stress I feel with the move and to get some spiritual guidance) to get some guidance on how I feel, how to tell Trav, and just to feel better in general. I know when Carolyn talked to a priest during her struggles, she said that was what helped her the most. Also, now we won't have any choice but to get a van. The timing of this sucks so bad as we really need to save all the extra money we can to get a new house. So, this really bothers me too! Seems, petty, probably, but it just compounds the other worries I have.

Okay...back to present day. Today I am going to the lab after Madison goes to school to get he bloodwork done that the doctor ordered. I will also be waiting for the call from Dr. L to confirm that it is indeed true. Then, I will be reviewing what I have forgotten about taking care of myself while caring for the boys. I am hoping that I feel better today - I had thought I was getting the flu as my appetite wasn't the greatest the last couple days, I was nauseous and tired. Now, though, I know it isn't the flu. Anyway, just going to try to take care of myself and the kids and get used to this whole idea. I need to find peace with it so that when I tell Trav, I can deal with his fears. I guess I just have to hope that God had a plan bigger than ours and that this is supposed to be for some amazing reason.

I am back in the groove!!!

2007-07-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today I did my first scrapbook page in about 2 months! It felt so good to get one done. It was extra sweet because I LOVE the way it turned out. It was a page about my mom in 3 pics, one with each of my kids. I titled it "Grandma's Love" which I think is totally appropriate for the page. I used all stash for the page including 7 buttons I have had for at least 3 years, 1 sheet of 8.5" x 11" paper (which I never use), 4 scrap pieces, 2 chipboard embellishments, acrylic paint, a rub-0n I thought I would never use and I got the sketch from a class I attended on Scrapping Good Times by an old friend of mine. I am just so geeked and can't wait to see how long this high will last. I am hoping to do at least 3 more pages before the end of the month as I am VERY behind my goal of 2 pages a week.

In doing this page, I also realized how fun it is to scrap alone. There is no pressure to get your page done before the other person goes home. You can take your time and do techniques that take extra time that you would not normally do. You can really figure out and mull over what you want to do with the page. I feel so creatively stimulated!!! Now, off to do another page!

Bonkers for Biking

2007-07-18T19:49:00.000-07:00

Today was a day spent almost exclusively outside with my DD who is, as the title suggests, BONKERS FOR BIKING! Madison finally bit the bullet and decided yesterday that enough was enough - the training wheels HAD to come off!!! I think it was because we had talked about it and then she saw Nick riding a 2 wheel bike without training wheels that she felt compelled to learn herself. It is powerful motivation to see someone younger than you who has mastered something that you have been too scared to try! So, I took the training wheels off and after a few times of just supporting her while she got on, she wanted to do everything herself and tried about 20 times. She only fell a couple of times and did amazingly well for just learning. Today, she woke up BEGGING to go outside and ride her bike. Half of the day she rode the little purple one and then she got brave - she got out the BIG one that Amber gave her. By about 2pm, she was riding that like a pro. She went from our house all the way to the end of the block and back without falling at all. I was so proud of her stamina and stick to it attitude! I do have the feeling that she is going to want to go for bikerides every day for the rest of the summer....decked out in her helmet, long pants, long sleeve shirts, kneepads and elbowpads. She was just too cute...I guess I have to get my butt ready for some long hours spent on a bike!!!! Gotta keep up with my new biker babe!!!!

So much going on lately!

2006-07-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

Wow! Not even sure where to start. I guess with Braden...about 2 weeks ago (July 14), Braden started standing on his own. First few times, he was holding a toy and I don't think he realized he was doing it. As soon as he did, he would quickly grab on to whomever was near. However, in the past week, he has been standing for longer periods of time without getting scared. On July 22, he stood for Mom, Dad and I for at least 30 seconds before plopping to the ground. Then, on Tuesday July 25, he did it by himself. He was standing holding on to the chair and he voluntarily let go! So, yesterday, Madison and I were in the basement and I set Braden on the floor. He stood there for a second and then took 1 step toward me to reach a toy. Later the same day, we were in the bathroom and he was holding on to the potty, I moved his hand to close it and he stood there for a second before turning and taking 3, yes three steps toward the bathtub which he recently seems to like. So, he has taken his first steps! Being the scrapbooker I am, I am sad that I did not have a camera near, but plan to try to catch some on film later tonight. I am sure that this is not the end of it by a long shot! Marrisa gives him a few days to be running around the house!

Mr. Ashton - what can I say about him! He is still a bundle of energy and spunk and he is also growing up. A funny/scary thing happened at Mom and Dad's the other day. Madison found a dime and Mom let her keep it. To be fair, she also grabbed one for Ashton and Braden. Well, Ashton decided to put it in his mouth and ended up swallowing it! Well, he is that much richer!

Holy hotness!!!!

2006-07-15T22:18:00.000-07:00

OMG...today was so hot....well, I guess technically it was yesteray since it is past midnight. Anyway, according to my car, it got to 95! Whoa!!!! It was just too hot to do anything so we spent most of the day hanging around the house until I had to pick up Risa and go look at a computer desk at 3. Took Braden to see it (like the desk...will be getting it later this week!) and decided to go to Mass on the way home since we didn't have all 3 kids. It was a great Mass since Mom and Dad held Braden until Communion. Then, went home, went to get cheap pizza...discovered I don't like Little Caesar's anymore...then took the kids to Fuzzy's. That was awesome on such a hot day! Definitely a necessity! By the time we got back, it was bedtime...got the kids to bed and have enjoyed some freedom to work in my scraproom for the second night in a row. Last night I went through all the new papers I have purchased in the past few months (2 stacks plus a bit) and sorted out some papers I know I don't want. Plus, did a bit of straightening as well as getting some stuff from Madison from preschool the past 2 years in order in drawers. Have more to do with that, but took care of most stuff that was in the room. I hope to finish the rest of her preschool stuff in the next couple of days. Tonight, I took a couple of hours and went through all the miscellaneous pictures I had in the scraproom and dated them. Still have to file them and look around the house for more, but at least it was a good start. Got a whole shoebox full of them done. Yippee!!! I am really getting motivated to organize that room so I can start doing more scrapping. I desperately want to get some shelves in there, but financially, that is going to have to wait. Oh well, there is a ton I can do in the meantime.

Well, it is really late and I have just done 2 blogs which is more than I have done ever. I need to relax, talk to Risa so she doesn't get bored and maybe work some more....also sounds like Braden is waking up for the 3rd time. Back to reality.....

One of the best days in a long time....

2006-07-15T21:57:00.000-07:00

Friday, July 14, 2006 - This was one of the best days that I have had in a long time with the kids. I decided to sort of kick back, relax, and enjoy some time with them instead of stressing about cleaning and getting things done. Mom and I set up the pool for the kids and I loved watching them splash around in it. Later on, we were out there during Braden's nap and the kids had been playing in the pool and were done. I was sitting on the picnic table reading a magazine watching them. Well, I had to rinse off to go inside so I turned on the hose and started spraying my feet and then Madison and Ashton's too! I then went back to sit down and spent a lot of time telling Ashton not to spray by the table where Madison was running. Then I got up and moved everything so in case it did get wet, nothing would be ruined. That got me thinking...why don't I just join in the fun instead of being the "mom". So, I started to coerce Ashton into spraying me a bit by doing it myself on my legs. Then when he sprayed me, I sort of ran away screaming which made him want to spray me worse. So, of course it progressed into an all out water war! I gave the hose to Ashton and he worked his way up from spraying my feet to chasing me around the backyard spraying me every place else. I ended up totally soaked! I have not laughed that hard in so long and I truly enjoyed every minute of it. Some of the time Madison would jump in my arms to have me "save" her but most of the time was just us running around getting soaked by Ashton with the hose. I can't believe how much fun we had. It made me think that I need to do that more often and then maybe I wouldn't be so stressed so much of the time. I plan on doing that at least once a week where I just kick back and dedicate the day to doing whatever the kids want to do. It was just nice to spend the time with the older two while Braden was asleep as sometimes it feels like I don't get much quality time with them anymore as so much of my time is with Braden. I totally needed that day to connect with the kids. It was a blessing that God gave it to me to remind me what is important. Cleaning will wait, but kids grow up too fast. I want my kids to remember me playing with them, not the spotless house.

OMG...what a week!!!!

2006-06-06T10:06:00.000-07:00

Well, this week has started off where last week ended - absolutely CRAZY!!!!! After the leakage we had in our basement in the playroom and scraproom, things in our house have been in shambles! So, we have been having people coming to give us quotes on basement waterproofing as well as air conditioning. Last Thursday was Madison's class picnic from 11-1 and then I have appts at 2. 4:30 and 6!!! What a night! Another appt on Friday after a tough day...and a tough night....Mass on Saturday, Zoo and McDonald's on Sunday, and then actually a day just to be home yesterday! Things have been nuts! Started to get the playroom organized and are going through stuff for a garage sale later in the summer. I can't wait to weed out a lot of the stuff. We just have so many toys that the kids can't possibly play with them all nor can we keep them organized!! Of course, that is the problem with the whole house!!!

I did start working out last week...doing a 20 minute 1-mile walk called Walking off the Weight and loving it. It seems that I am not so tired when I am doing something. I am also trying to watch what I eat. I took some before pics the other day and almost cried!!! I didn't realize how terrible I look! I am just glad that I am now doing something about it. I think I have only missed 2 days since I started. However, one of the days I walked around the Zoo with the kids so at least got some exercise! I am just going to be happy when I get to my goal! I am not very patient but do realize that everything worth it is worth waiting and working for! But, I will be happy to be maintaining instead of trying to lose.

Things with the kids are going well. Braden is now 8 months and is starting to pull up on stuff. He did it for the first time on Friday! Blew me away as he is sitting by the freezer and when I opened it and went to close it after getting what I needed, there he is standing there hanging on for dear life!!! It was adorable. He did it again on Saturday on the kick and play thing. Then yesterday, as soon as he got up, his feet were aching to hit the floor and he walked (with my help of course) from the bedroom to the living room. He is doing so well!! Ashton is in the midst of potty training. We are having many accidents and what seems like intentional potty trips on the floor. I have started today to take him at least every hour if not every half an hour to try to curtail those. We'll see how that goes. I just want him to be able to be in preschool this fall as I think it will be beneficial to him. Madison finished 4 year old preschool and says she is scared to go to kindergarten next fall. I'm sure after a long summer away from school, she will be excited. We are keeping her where she is for one more year and then deciding what to do from there.

Trav is falling apart! In the past month, he has hurt his neck in a car accident, his head by dropping the garage door on him, both wrists, his elbow and I am sure other things too. Poor guy!!! I am sure this all will pass...maybe I can get him on a health kick and he will improve as well.

That's all for now. Again, will try to be a better blogger!!!

A few days...just a few days.

2006-02-06T22:03:00.000-08:00

Saturday, February 4, 2006 - Today Trav and I decided to ask Paul Seman and Marrisa to be Braden's Godparents. I am so glad to get that out of the way. Now I just hope that we can do the baptism before Lent but talking to Audrey today at Mass it didn't sound that probable. I hope that Mom can get the blanket done in the next few weeks also so Braden has a nice baptismal blanket like Madison and Ashton did.

Sunday, February 5, 2006 - Today I just lazed around. It is Super Bowl Sunday, but since I am not able to attend the party at Gary's, I am just here with the kids. Haven't even gotten dressed all day. Just didn't feel like it. Steelers won the Super Bowl. I had fun with the kids today, but am super tired from going out Friday night. It was great to get out, but boy am I paying for it. Trav did let me take a nap today, though Madison and Ashton came in two times each to try and get me up so it wasn't much of a nap. At least Trav tried to let me get some sleep.

Monday, February 6, 2006 - Today was not really that bad of a day for a Monday. I was pretty lazy and just hung around until I had to pick up Madison from school. I am so happy that Mom came over to stay with the boys so that I didn't have to pack them up and drag them along. I also got to go get my shot while she stayed with all 3. I am 10 weeks into my shots now so I am half way to full strength. I am going to be so happy when I don't have to go every week anymore. The rest of the day was lazy with me not doing much. I did find out that I won the BH page contest again so I had to pick a sketch. Now it is time to start working on that one. Also stayed up late cleaning a bit in my scraproom. I can't wait to get shelves in there so I can really get organized. Right now I am just trying to clear some space so I can actually scrap on a table. At least now my floor is a little better and you can walk in there without tripping over a ton of things.

I am feeling a bit down today. We found out Friday that Trav was made union at work and thus we are losing our vision benefit. That really sucks! I have to check into the Lasik now if I want to get it as I only have until the beginning of March for the discount. I hope I can have it done as I am so sick of wearing glasses and contacts. I sure hope none of the kids end up with bad eyes. I know it is probable, but I sure hope it doesn't happen.

2006-01-29T19:32:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a day! I am having a very bad Mom day! I don't have any patience today and am not sure why. I think maybe I am just so overtired that I am just losing it. After secluding myself inside all day with the kids, at about 5pm, I finally decided to venture out of the house. Marrisa and I took the kids to Damon's for dinner and then to Meijers to get some stuff for Marrisa. Everything was great until just before we left Meijers and Braden started to scream. He screamed the entire way home! I had to drop of Marrisa at home before I could go home and the poor baby screamed the whole way. I felt like such a terrible mother and decided as I was speeding home that from now on, my kids will come first! I really don't care if it is inconvenient for other people....I am the protector for my kids and they HAVE to come first. Luckily when I got home, Trav was willing to put both the kids to bed as I was feeding Braden. So, at least I got some relief from my frustration and can sit a relax a bit tonight.

The day had some fun parts to it, though. I totally loved watching Trav play and dance with the kids to XM radio on the television. It was so sweet to see him interacting with them like that. He also cleaned the living room and it looks beautiful. I hope that I can get him motivated to keep cleaning. He did talk about E-baying some stuff so I hope he is serious and will help me declutter. I am so tired of this house being a mess. It is so hard to keep it neat when there is just so much stuff!

I am still working on Ashton's 2nd Birthday pages. It is so hard to decide on a title. I have to finish these so I can get them posted for the challenge. The end of the month is in two days so I have to get it done. I plan on trying to get at least the journaling figured out after I do this blog. I love scrapping, but it takes me so long to complete my pages. I am such a perfectionist!

Speaking of scrapping, I decided to become a Leaving Prints representative tonight. I contacted a lady from one of my mailing lists and told her I wanted to sign up under her. I am totally geeked as I will get not only the LP discount, but also the discount to my uplines store. I hope that I can use all of this and also make a bit of money from this. A little extra income..at least enough to cover my hobby expenses...would be wonderful!

Well, I will sign off for now. Oh, I have to just jot down a few words that the kids say that I think are so cute...

Ashton - when asked who he is says "Ashton Jon Pilpatrick!" He also says Wiwwy Wonka instead of Willy Wonka. He also sometimes refers to his penis as his tail...not sure where that came from, but he has done it a few times.
Madison - used to say skabetty instead of spaghetti and hossable instead of hospital....Oh, too cute...tonight when I said Madison is my little girl, she looked at me in all seriousness and said, "Mommy, please don't call me little girl. I am not little; I am big!" It totally cracked me up! She is such a 13 year old in a 4 year old body!

What a week!

2006-01-28T22:11:00.000-08:00

This week has been a busy one and a tough one with Braden! Last Sunday we went to Shooters for Amber's birthday party. It was fun, though not as good as Tori's I heard as they moved all the games into a tiny room. It was really crowded and didn't have a lot for the little ones. Madison and Ashton did have fun, though, just being with their cousins. We got Amber some craft stuff and she really liked it.

The rest of the week was busy just being us. Wednesday, Madison had a field trip to Butman Fish which was cool, but boy was it a chore to take all three kids! Luckily Tracey held Braden almost the entire time which allowed me to help Madison with her project and keep an eye on Ashton. It was fun, but I don't think I will do too many library trips until Braden is a bit older. I was really sad that I forgot my camera as I wanted to scrap all her field trips. I think I will just get the pics that the helper took and take a few pics of the books she checked out and the library card she got.

Friday, Mom and Dad picked up Madison from school as Braden seemed to be in a pretty bad mood! The poor baby just wanted to be held so much. I hope that this doesn't last long as I can't get a thing done around the house. Oh well, I know they are little for such a short time, but it is frustrating sometimes. We basically lounged around the house and then Marrisa came over. We did go to dinner at Beef O'Brady's which was good. I didn't get to work on any scrapping as Marrisa wanted to go home early to chat with Mike.

Saturday was another day when Braden needed lots of attention. However, I was able to spend some time with the kids playing and doing puzzles. Boy are they great at the Elmo and Princess puzzles! I think it is time to get them a few more! We also went to Mass today and I spent almost the entire Mass in the gathering area with Braden feeding him and letting him sleep. Thank God that Marrisa and Mom and Dad were there to take care of Madison....Ashton was home napping. It is nice only taking 2 kids to Mass....don't need as many hands and can concentrate a bit more.

Well, I am sure that lots of other things happened this week, but I am at a loss. I am going to try to remember to post once a day, but so far I am not doing so good at that. Wish me luck!

Braden actually slept!!!!

2006-01-18T05:45:00.000-08:00

Well this morning has been a normal morning! Got Madison ready and off to school and now I am sitting here with Braden sleeping on the Boppy. Ashton is happily playing in the playroom, so life is quiet for once.

The coolest thing happened last night....Braden slept from about 6:15pm until 5:00am and then fell back asleep after eating until 7:30. It made his crankiness for the past few days worth it. I hope this is the beginning of a baby who sleeps through the night each night! I am not sure what that is like since the other never did as babies. Heck, Ashton does now but Madison still wakes up once to go potty and then again usually to climb in bed with us. Oh well, they are little for such a short time.

Now I am just hanging out on the computer, realizing I have not blogged since the first one I did (and I KNOW some funny and memorable things have happened since), so I am resolving to blog each time I sit down at the computer (at this time in life about 2 times a week or so!).

Have a great Wednesday! I am going to try to resist buying any more stuff on the QVC scrapping shows!

December 30, 2005 My First Blog

2005-12-30T15:43:00.000-08:00

My first blog ever! Wow! It is amazing how far technology has come. This blog will mostly be used just to talk about our days so that when I scrap pics, I have the details for the journaling. I also plan on sharing this site with family and friends so they know what is going on in our lives. So on to the show......

Today we took the tree down. It is sad to see it go, but I also appreciate the room in the living room. We also opened the presents from Eric, Beth and the kids. Ashton LOVES his new basketball hoop and he and Madison were taking turns shooting. Madison got a game called Hullabaloo and she and Ashton had fun playing with that while poor Trav tried to watch a Pistons game. The game is so great in that they can play it together. Hopefully we will all be able to play it next time the family gets together. Braden got the cutest three piece outfit. It is baby blue with overalls and a hoody! I love it!