Post Christmas Fun

We had a WONDERFUL Christmas! Hope you all had the same. We opened gifts here at the house that morning. The kids really seemed to enjoy what they got. Santa was listening very hard this year. Clark received the movies he wanted as well as gifts from the kids. I think I received the best present ever!! Clark had taken the kids out one Sunday and they gave me the result on Christmas. It was several different poses of the kids from Glamour Shots. There was one of all four of them, with individual shots of each. I have already put them up and hope to scan them so you can see how great they are. I cried when I saw them. Oh, I also got a 4 meg flash drive to store my pictures on.

The only bad note was when Clark had to go to the Emergency room due to the staph infection on his face. The medicine he is on is really putting him down, big time. He was not up to coming to my mom's for Christmas dinner, but he did come for a few minutes afterwards.

We spent the rest of the afternoon and evening at Mom and Dad's. We exchanged gifts and played and talked and had a great time. There was not even any arguing!! Christmas miracles DO happen. Just kidding! When we got home, everyone was on their way to bed when Heather came home from her mom's. So, we had another round of gift giving. It was hard to put the little guys down after that, so we had a lot pf patience.

The next day we spent taking all of Alex's stuff out of Heather's room so now she does have her own room. We have spent the last several days getting the boys' room together. I am bound and determined to get it done before they go back to school. We have only one wall left. Of course that wall has a large dresser with all the drawers crammed with stuff. Aaron has a friend over so that will wait until tomorrow. All in all it has been a very nice holiday.

Wrapping Party

I am SOOOO tired!! Last night we had a wrapping party at my mom's. This was when we all brought our presents and our wrapping supplies and stay up until everything is wrapped. We were up until 4 am. We had such fun. I took my friend home and got to bed around 5:30.. You know you are out too late when your 19 year old step-daughter gets home before you. I actually got the " If you are going to be out late, you have to call...." talk from my husband. I then got up at 7:30 with my kids. WE are taking a nap. My sister gets to go shopping with my dad and her twin boys. HA!

Thursday's itinerary: Up to take first child to school ,going out to the driveway to see a flat tire!! PANIC just a bit. Called car pool's mom and she took her child to school, walked my two to school, we got a ride halfway there. Thank you, Satia! Borrowed Heather's car to take middle school carpool to school. Woke Heather up again to take van into the tire shop. She then took me to the store to get the last minute items for Alex's holiday party. The tire shop finished the van within an hour. Hurray!! Went to Alex's party, it was GREAT. Did regular afternoon stuff. Everything normal until the evening. Started baking and baking and baking... Aaron wanted to bring brownies to each of his classes. He has six classes and the office staff. This was 14 dozen brownies. I made an extra batch just in case.

Friday's business: Took morning carpool, Heather took Alex and Lauren to school. came back for middle schoolers and Ms. Blanche. She had to take Dylon his inhaler. Everyone carried brownies. Ran home to make the extra batch, picked up Alex. Heather took a batch to Aaron and then put Alex down for nap. I went to Lauren's holiday party, got her out early and went get afternoon carpool. Took Lauren home and took the last brownie batch to Aaron. Good thing I did. Someone bumped into him and he dropped a whole plateful. Picked up last carpool and fell asleep!! Just kidding. FUN FUN FUN!

Fun Fun Fun

I am cutting out noses for "Pin The Nose On The Snowman" Tomorrow, I am going on the Polar Express with Lauren's class. I have helped my Aaron with his Beyond The Book project. I have to bake brownies for Aaron's school and I am going to two holiday parties.

I am so glad that I am not working. My sister has recently gotten a job and I am so proud of her. She has been out of work for several years and I know that this was a hard decision for her. She is doing an amazing job keeping things up. Way to go, Leslie!!

My sis-in-law has just gotten her Master's and is a great example to us all that even moms can go to school. I am so waiting for my guys to go to school full time so I can go back myself.

Not much else is going on. (understatement!!)

MyBio

Someday soon I am going to change my bio, but I think I will wait a little. Today, Aaron was yelling at Lauren and Alex about why they left the front door open because Elvis was going to get out... He looked back at me and said "Oh yeah.."

General Stuff

We have been a little hectic the past week or so with casino parties and such. We are also trying to get our house ready for my 19 year old step-daughter to move in with us. Boy, talk about excited!!! Alex is staying with Aaron and is already calling his room " Heather's room". We are almost done decorating the inside of the house for Christmas. OK, maybe about 75 % done.

We found Elvis's stocking which really upset the little ones. Thy asked me how Elvis was going to get his presents this year. I told them that God would be taking care of it for Santa. They just stood there looking at it, so I told them that they could give it a hug if they wanted. I thought that I was going to cry when they both hugged the stocking and gave it a kiss. They still talk about missing him. Alex will break down and cry, usually when he is tired, but still...
Tonight as we finished setting up the living room, Alex pulled out the stocking and gave it to Clark and said " You could hug it if you want to, Daddy" Clark got a little emotional. Lauren was playing with Elvis's collar and Alex said that he couldn't smell Elvis anymore. I have kept his squeaky toy in a bag. I think I'll get it out for them tomorrow so they can smell him again. It still makes me cry...

My head tells me that he was "just" a dog, but my heart misses him. Compared to what some of my other friends are going through, I feel rather silly behaving this way. I think it makes me more sad when my children are upset.

In the meantime, I am busy making a Pin The Nose On The Snowman game for Alex's class. I am gong to be taking pictures of the kids in Lauren's class for a teacher gift. I think I will do the same for Alex's. Both of them have such wonderful teachers. I feel lucky this year. Aaron is having some trouble with one of his teachers, but I told him that this would not be the first time he would have to just work with her. As long as she doesn't get too rough....

I think that catches you up. Check out this link. It kind of shows what my friend Hellen's daughter, Emily, is going through... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOTUzQWbmYw.

Aaron

When most women say that their husbands are magic, I don't think they mean in the same way that I do. "It was a magical night" has a different twist in my house.

Tonight, my husband and his partner are at a magic show. They are performing their stage show and will be levitating my son, Aaron. What kid can say that they were up late because they were floating in mid-air. That is almost as good as "My dog ate my homework". I think he will get points for creativity.

On a different note; does anyone know of someone who wants to illustrate a children's story? I have one that I want to see about getting published and I cannot draw to save my life. I have no money to pay,but I will split any profits with them. If there is any, that is.

I hope everyone's season is going well!!

Alex and Elvis

Alex was the only one of the kids that Elvis ever got testy with. He snapped at Alex after he punched him one day. Alex was always playing rough with Elvis and Elvis was really good about it. He would just get up and go to another room. We were not sure how Alex would take Elvis leaving. He came home after morning pre-k and said that nobody was home. I think it was at that point that he realized that Elvis was not coming back. This afternoon when he went to go out into the backyard, he said that he was going to yell at Elvis to come back here. He shook his little fist up at the sky when he said it. When I told him that Elvis was not going to be able to come back here, he really began to cry. The school counselor gave us some books to read about when a dog dies. One of them is called Dog Heaven. It is the best book. I highly recommend it. It talks about when a dog dies, God does not give him wings because God knows that dogs love to run the best. It also talks about the cloud beds and the dog treats and the angel children that play with the dogs. I think one of the best parts is when the dogs start thinking about their families, the angels bring them back down to visit their old homes. And when we die, our dogs meet us at the gate to Heaven to be with us again. These books have really helped Alex deal with this. He has talked about going to Heaven to see Elvis again. I hope he continues to find comfort

with that thought.

Lauren and Elvis

Elvis was here before Lauren was born and we were worried how he would take it when we brought her home from the hospital. We should not have worried. The only problem he had was when she cried. He did not like it at all and would come look at me as if to say " Don't you hear her? Let's go see what is wrong." He would go into Aaron's and Lauren's rooms when I put them to bed and lay there with me while I told them a story or read to them or rocked them. I would put my feet on him while I rocked and rub his back or belly at the same time. Lauren would crawl over, on and under him and he would be rock steady. In the first picture, we had not explained to the children what might happen. In the second, she did know. Clark asked her if she could smile and she said only if she stood on her head, she was too sad. She spent the entire night holding his collar and walking around with it. She said she loved it when he would stick his head through the curtains to look out the window and when his collar jingled while he walked. She said the house was too quiet without him. I agree with all my heart.

Aaron and Elvis

Aaron was four when we got Elvis from the Great Dane Rescue. He and Elvis would play and play. Elvis liked to nibble on Aaron like he was a puppy. Elvis would also run at Aaron and swerve at the last minute to mess with him. Aaron is having a very hard time with this. He does not want to talk about it but I bought a Littlest Pet Shop Great Dane toy that he is sleeping with. He says that Elvis was fun to play with and one of his best buds. Aaron has a sensitive soul and I hope that this gets easier for him.

Elvis "GREAT" Dane

This is Elvis, our Great Dane. The date is wrong on the pictures. This was taken yesterday, November 28, 2007. Elvis had been part of our family since we rescued him in 1999. We got him when Aaron was 4 years old. He put up with three children crawling over, around, and under him with grace and style. He would just look at you with a look as if to say, "Could you please help a dog out?" He went on numerous walks and wore many things tucked into his collar. He had patience with noise and mayhem in the house. He was a companion, playmate, pirate, carrier, snuggle buddy and all around great friend. He loved all children. Halloween was one of his favorite holidays when all the kids would come around to see him.

He was a great protector whenever anyone came to the door and he would always wait up until everyone was home. We know that he kept at least one person from breaking into the house. He loved to bother our cats especially Simba. They would sound like they were fighting (Simba thought they were) but Elvis's tail would be going full speed and he would be having a great time. His tail was another adventure. I received numerous bruises from his tail and several things were broken as he wagged it. It is hard to watch for a tail that was waist high! Recently, he began to decline and stop eating and did not want to get up anymore.

God received Elvis in Dog Heaven today where he can run and play without pain or getting tired. We will miss him a great deal.

The Holiday Season

The holidays usually mean decorating, baking, shopping, and that kind of thing. Well, for my family there is something extra added. It is now casino party season. My husband owns a casino party company that does parties. He supplies all the tables, chairs, chips, and dealers for whomever wants to book a party. The company has Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Let It Ride, and Texas Hold-Em tables. You can book as few tables as you want or book the whole company. The link is http://www.boldmagic.com/montecarlo.html. All this means that we don't get to see Clark much on the weekends during December. As a matter of fact, he is working on the tables this evening. The kids and I spend time sorting out chip trays and card shoes. There does tend to be some stress at the house during this time. It does make for an interesting time for us trying to find the balance for the kids. Clark does a great job and a lot of times goes without sleep when we have something planned. I do need to figure out how to get lights up on the house this year. I know that I will NOT be doing it!! Oh well, things could be worse. I have a friend that has no heat tonight and will not have heat until maybe tomorrow. It is COLD here! I also have a friend who spent last Christmas in the hospital with her daughter. This is a good year for them, though. Check out her blog to read about Emily. I have a link, all you have to do is click.

I went shopping with an older friend this morning and some crazy lady came up and said that she wanted to pray for her. Well, she did. Right there in the store! It was rather surreal. We both looked at each other and let her go. She put her hands on my friend and prayed out loud. I suppose that any blessing, even from a crazy person, is good. The same lady walked into the checkout line behind us and then payed for my friend's purchases. Talk about odd.

I am now going to edit Aaron's lit. paper. FUN, FUN, FUN.

Blessings on all!

Break is OVER!!

Huzzah!!! School starts tomorrow. I know my kids are no where near as excited as I am. I have actually pulled out my Christmas decorations to get ready for the holidays. I have even gone thru a box to clear out Aaron's room for Alex to move into his room in preparation for Heather. I am so excited. No one is sick and everyone is going to school. I have cleaned the guest bath and the front two rooms, the kitchen is an ongoing job and I am almost caught up on laundry. I think I am in a fantasy world. Now that I have jinxed myself, I wonder what will happen tomorrow.

Black Friday

I think that I have officially gone over the edge. I was up at 2:30am, yes, AM. My sister-in-law spent the night and we were out the door to Kohl's by 3:15. We were standing in line by 3:30 to waiting for the store to open. After fighting thru Kohl's, we headed to Target for the doors to open at 5am, or so we thought. While in line, we found out that Target did not open until 6am and it was Wal-Mart that was starting at 5 am. My sister-in-law was slightly freaked, so I waited at Target while she headed over to Wal-Mart for what she wanted there. Just as I was handing the cashier my check to pay, the power went out and the system went down!! The million other people in line all gasped. I have actually never heard that happen, just read about it. It was kind of cool. I had to wait an additional 10 minutes for the computers to come back up and the cashier had to re ring my purchases. By 8 am, I was ready to go back to bed, but NOOOO. I came home to three kids who were just getting up. My wonderful mother came over at 6:30 to watch them after my husband went to work. Isn't she great!?!

There were people in line that had this incredible plan that included switching off in line while the other went to another store. There were some really good deals out there, but I was only looking for toys. I finished off four of the 8 children in the family and half of two others. It was actually fun in a twisted sort of way.

Every year I say that I am not going to do this, but there I went.

I am so getting a nap!!

Emily

Today we celebrated the anniversary of the event that changed Emily's life. I am so privileged to know such a strong spirit. This young lady has gone through something that could have sent her to such a chasm of self pity that she would have never been able climb out of it. However, not only has she maintained her lovely spirit, she has soared beyond. To go from the possibility of never walking again to playing around in Let's Jump like nothing had ever happened, is a miracle in itself. She is truly amazing. Emily, you are my hero.

Lauren

So my mom tells me that as they are coming home from Sunday School, she asked Lauren about her Thanksgiving Feast. Lauren said that she could have taken the medicine because the Feast was not that much fun. I am sure that I will never again get her to take a shot or she will miss something fun at school. I just hope to be able to remind her how much faster she felt better with the shot than with 10 days of medicine. She cracks me up.

Thanksgiving

I wish I could say I am thankful for the health of my family, but.... We are now on another round, but this time, I think it is just a cold. Or a couple of colds- Aaron and Clark. It might be bad allergies, but we are taking precautions. Quarantine isn't too strict, is it? I have had to buy another can of Lysol. I spray the couches every night. If I could get them to bathe in it, I would.

On another note, the play is over and Aaron did a great job. He did props with two other kids and for the most part things went smoothly. One of the young ladies is a very good friend of the family and she had a story to tell me one night. It seems the other young lady was feeling her power and said some unkind things to Aaron. On several occasions. When I asked Aaron about it, he confirmed it. I asked him why he didn't say anything and he said that he did not want to get into trouble and just ignored her. I am of two minds about this. It is good that he can ignore her because I am sure that chaps her hide even more. However, Mama Lion says to tell her to stop it and to shut her mouth. But as a dear friend tells me, I cannot fight his battles. So when the young lady in question came up and confronted me, I held my teeth as well as my tongue and went on. It was very hard! When he was younger it was so much easier. I got involved in all the battles. I think I am doing okay with this growing up thing. WHATEVER!! I am lucky Lauren and Alex are still young. Lauren seems to be able to take care of herself, though. We have had a conversation about getting the teacher involved before it comes to blows. Just on her part. I am glad she can take care of herself, we just have to walk that fine line.

On to other news. Heather, my step daughter will be moving in with us at the end of the semester. There are many reasons for this which we will not discuss, but we are very excited about it. Aaron and Alex will be sharing a room and Heather will be moving into Alex's room. We will be going through everything and paring down a great deal. There has been an ongoing joke that we have a toy store in our house. It might be true. I never realized how much stuff we have. I spent several hours deep cleaning the front room and going through everything. There was a bunch of stuff that has seemed to wander into that room from other places in the house. Now to be honest, it was not a straight several hours. I did have to stop for the stray Popsicle, snack, or referee. Not for me, for the seven children that were in my house. I am going to be working my way through the rest of the house doing the same thing. It should be an adventure. Sounds like fun, huh.

I have noticed that now that school activities have settled down,the holidays are coming up. How is that fair?

In an effort to make everyone happy, I have failed and made no one happy. My husband may have to work the day after Thanksgiving, we are not sure yet. If not, we are going to see his grandmother in Tennessee. If he does, we have the option to go to my brother's house with the whole family. I love my family, but sometimes it is nice to have a toned down holiday. Well, that seemed to upset everyone, so I said that we would have dinner at home and go to my brother's for dessert. No good. I was told that if we don't come for dinner, don't come. GRRR!! I understand what everyone has to say, I just don't want to be in the middle anymore. I am done feeling like I have to choose. I feel pulled apart. I know my family will be reading this and I hope that no one gets upset, but it is easier to explain in print. We have a very tough couple of weeks with everyone being sick and stressed at work and school. I just wish they could see it and understand. Well, I'll just put it in God's hands and let things go. I am planning to enjoy my holiday with whatever family I am with. Big Sigh!!

I am now off to explain to my six year old that she is not old enough to stay up past 10pm even if it is vacation. It is hard when you feel that you are older than you really are.

Lauren's Turn

Well, its official. Lauren now has strep throat. She was very upset because Friday is her Thanksgiving Feast at school and she was going to miss it. The doctor gave her an option; a shot or take medicine for 10 days. Lauren really thought about it and opted for the shot. She was very brave. It hurt very badly and she did cry, but she will be able to go to school on Friday. The kids are off next week, so she can really recover then. I am very proud of her for making the tough decision. While we were there, she asked the doctor what the difference between a virus and bacteria. The doctor gave her a very good explanation and did not talk down to her. I only had to explain what replicate meant. The doctor said that Lauren always had great questions. Even sick, she impresses me.

Car Pillows

My children have spent a lot of time in the car. They have been up early for crosswalk and only had a small nap in the afternoon for the same reason. At least one of them would fall asleep almost every time we would get in the car. This would lead to the inevitable "OW, my neck!" My sister-in-law bought them each a car pillow. These are small pillows that we leave in the car. Whenever they feel sleepy they get their pillows and go out. It was the best idea EVER! The pillows even have cool covers thanks to my brother. Every time we get in the car, I say thank you, Ne.

Mommy, I don't feel so good.

These are scary words in our house right now. Aaron turned out to be fine. I think his might have been tiredness and stress. This afternoon, I picked Lauren up from school and she seemed a little quiet. For those of you who know Lauren, this is not usual. I asked her how she was feeling and she said her throat hurt. AARGH!!! I looked and it looked a bit red. When we got home, I took her temperature. It was 101.3. We are so going to the doctor tomorrow. Insurance for the kids runs out at the end of November. I am not sure what we are going to do. Clark is going to try to get insurance through his business. Hopefully it won't be too expensive.

Well, I just keep thinking, God only gives us what we can handle. It may not be fun or easy, but if God has faith in me, I know I can handle it. The holiday season if coming up and that is always busy for us. Clark has casino parties, the kids have holiday parties, and there is always stuff to do around the house. Somehow it all gets done.

Aaron has been working on the play at his school (Alice in Wonderland). He is doing the props with two other people. I have seen it three times. It is so very cute!! The kids are doing an amazing job. The talent is awesome. I am hoping to post some music when we get the disc.
The performances have been Friday and Monday night, Tuesday and Wednesday during school and Thursday evening. He is very tired and trying to keep up with his homework. We are trying not to pressure him too much but this is all part of it. He is talking about auditioning for a part in the next one. He has an amazing voice. He sings like an angel.

Well, it is dinner time. I am trying out a new recipe. I'll let you know how it goes!!

The Bad Mommy Book

I am sure that every one of you know about this book. It may be called something different in your house or it may not even have a name. It is the book that your name goes in when you send your child to school when they say they don't feel well. You say things like: "I'm sure you'll feel better when you there. Maybe you just need to get going. " Or other phrases like that. You send your child and hope you don't get the call. You know the one. The one that says that you need to come pick up your child because they are in the nurse's office. You also know that your child has told everyone "I told my mom that I didn't feel good this morning". Can you imagine the looks? I sent Alex to school after him telling me that his throat hurt. Yes, I got a call from the nurse and when we went to the doctor it was Strep throat. Well, today I sent Aaron to school after him telling me that he threw up. He has a play performance this evening and he is needed. If he stays home for throwing up, he can't go tonight. I am hoping that I don't get the call.

Oh, well. It won't be the first time.

Aaron

My son Aaron is such a great kid. He received 6 "A"s and 1 "B" on his report card this past semester. He is also taking two pre-ap classes, math and science and they are talking about putting him into pre-ap language arts as well. He is also in the school play doing props. He has been at school until 6:30 or 7:00pm all week and the play is tonight. He is supposed to be there from 4:15 until after 9pm. This is all while keeping up with his homework. So, with everything else going on, I decided to keep him home today from school so he can rest up. I found out that the star of the play is also at home so I don't feel so bad. These kids are only 12 and 13 years old. I know they think they are invincible, but they are still just kids. He will be taking a nap today and then getting a shower and going up to school. He has worked so hard on this play. It has been a great first time experience for all of us. I think his theater arts teacher will be taking a break after this. She has been pretty stressed. I'll let you know how the play turns out this evening.

Wednesday

Today was very busy. Alex and Lauren had their fun run. They took pledges for each lap they went around this track. Half of the money raised goes back to the PTA and the school. The guys who ran the fun run were excellent. They had the kids swimming, driving, dancing, riding horses, etc. It was hilarious!! Alex did 27 laps and Lauren did 32. They did great. I took plenty of pictures.

I also had to go and get some more Girl Scout candy. I will be so glad when this is done. I am so getting more help when cookies sales start.

Aaron had play practice until 6:30 and them had to come home and eat and get right to homework. He is very tired!!We are very proud of him. This semester he received only one B. The rest were A's and the B was an 88. Way to go!!

When we got home from play practice, two of the neighborhood boys told us that a man had come from our backyard with my son's bike. When they asked him about it, he gave them the bike and left. I have a lock on my back gate that he broke into. Our backyard backs up against a busy street and we put in the back gate so that we could mow the easement. He must have come in off of the street and just took what he could see. Needless to say, I am getting several new locks first thing in the morning! I filed a police report, but since nothing was taken, I am not sure what will be done. It just scares me that we could have been here while he was in the backyard. All I can say is Thank You Angels!!

I am mentally and physically exhausted. I am going down!!

Halloween

I am sorry that I do not have the pictures yet for Halloween. But the kids were so cute. We had a friend of Lauren's from down the street come by three times to make sure that we were going to go around with them. We got our costumes on and Aaron volunteered to man the candy at the door instead of go around with us. Clark had a magic show that night in Dallas. Alex was a bat and Lauren was a woodland fairy complete with wings that moved when she moved her shoulders. We had such a good time running from house to house. There were six kids and four adults in our group. We took turns being in the front and corralling the kids. It felt a lot like herding cats.

We got home and finished about 8:00 pm and then divided out candy. Aaron got some of the loot because he worked. The kids kept about a quarter of their candy and gave the rest to the Halloween Witch. For those of you who have not heard of her, the Halloween Witch take most of your candy and exchanges it for books or toys or other fun stuff. The more candy you give her, the more fun stuff you get back. This way, the kids get some candy to make them happy and they also get other non-candy things. This year Alex and Lauren got several books and a couple of Littlest Pet Shop critters as well as a Webkinz. (www.webkinz.com). You have got to check this out. One of the girls in Lauren's Daisy troop told us about Webkinz and they are so cool. It is an interactive website that only costs the price of the stuffed animal and is good for a year. There are actually learning opportunities for the kids on the website. Aaron got an origami kit and a Marvel comics magnet set.

Back to the story... I was really glad that we had the incentive to see what the witch brought us the next morning because we got up an hour later than usual!! Everyone was dressed and eating before they could see what they received in their treat baskets. We actually made it to school on time that day!!

Clark had a really good time at his magic show. It was a success!! The client seemed happy.
I have been running around too much the past couple of days and I am really tired in the evenings, but I am still going to scrapbook tonight!! I should probably get some of my film developed. I only have 10 rolls or so. Oh, well.

I am off to do a million loads of laundry and then pick up Alex.

Welcome to steam of consciousness from Karen!!

The cat in the bag

By the way, in case you have not noticed, I have decided to stop trying all those cute ways to label my kids for you. It seems to take so much more time to try and backtrack and replace names with initials. Now that I am back among the living, I think, I have so many things to do that there is no way that I can mess with the small stuff. Clark has done such a fantastic job keeping people clean and fed and getting to work himself that I cannot complain at all. I just get to do the rest. It will take me a while as I really do not plan on a relapse of any kind!!

So for those who care, the cat is now out of the bag!

Calling in DEAD

As you can see, it has been a while since I have posted anything. I decided to call into the world as dead. Last from my world, Alex was going to the Dr and had strep. Saturday night, I went to a girl's night and m throat was hurting a little at the end of the evening. I thought nothing of it until I woke up Sunday morning. Aaron was also complaining that his throat was hurting, so we had a quiet morning. As the day went on, it became apparent that Aaron and I had been blessed with the same lovely sickness that Alex had. GREAT!!! Clark had our family doctor call in antibiotics for he and I, which we started to take right away.

Lauren and Alex stayed home and my fantastically wonderful mother took Aaron to the doctor and it was confirmed that he had Strep as well. He had a shot which he took like a trooper. Meanwhile, my mom dropped Aaron off and picked up Alex and Lauren to go back to her house. Meanwhile, I was still out. Clark picked them up from her later that night. Tuesday, Clark went into work late to take the littlest to school. My mom picked up Alex and then came back out to get Lauren when she was out. This went on until Wednesday, when I went to the doctor. I was not getting any better and was almost done with my antibiotic. Not a good sign.

Well, not only did I have strep from Alex, I also had Lauren's virus which combined to put me in bed or on the couch for one solid week. I am just now feeling like living again. I have managed two meals today and a load of dishes. I am ready for a nap. I had a nap attack yesterday that I was not aware of taking until I woke up with Alex actually laying on top of me. Kamikaze snuggling at its best.

My mom has been fantastic. I would not have been able to do this without her. I really think that I would be in the hospital trying to recover if she had not been here. My sister has also jumped in where ever needed. Friday, Lauren and Alex were off of school and my sister came out and took therm to her house. Well, actually my mom had to get my sister and then they came out to the house to get the little guys. My sister even brought them back to me that night since Clark had to work late.

My family rocks!!

My greatest friend whose daughter is ill and does not need any more unfriendlies in the house (germs) came by Monday morning and dropped off the best breakfast (McDonald's) for the little guys. Now that may have been helped by Lauren telling her that they were not getting breakfast because I was sick. I often starve my kids when I am not feeling well. Apparently I also employ child labor since Lauren told my mom that she and Aaron were doing the laundry by themselves. I love my children!

Needless to say, I have missed ALL of my sister's cool Blog stuff and I am not planning on catching up. Sorry, Sis.

Off to my nap.

PATCH

PATCH

a piece of material used to mend or cover a hole or a weak spot
a shield worn over the socket of an injured or missing eye
a small piece
a piece of cloth sewed on a garment as an ornament or insignia
a small growth of beard under a man's lower lip
Thank you Merriam Webster!
PATCHWORK QUILT
PUMPKIN PATCH
PATCH ADAMS
NICOTINE PATCH
ARGH, ME HEARTIES!
Let’s fit all these together to make a coherent whole
I am not sure that we can.
Oh, my crazy sister and her words.
This one has got me really stumped.

I am behind!!

Well, I missed Fun Friday. Sorry Guys!!!!! I even missed the word of the day. My Friday was more like Frantic Friday not fun. "L" was still at home so I got everyone else off to school. I had a list of 15 or so things to accomplish.

"Oh, by the way,could you empty the freezer and defrost it? All you have to do is get several bags of ice and fill the coolers. Then just get all the ice out of the freezer. I'll be happy to wipe it out when I get home." Yea, right!!

I had to go make a deposit for the Girl Scout troop and then pick up some more Fall Product to give out. I had to pick up a book for the basket for the silent auction for the carnival this Saturday. I then was going to pick up Alex and then go home for lunch and nap. Then off to pick up the afternoon carpool. At 4, I was supposed to meet and pick up the basket to deliver to the school.

Oh the best laid plans.........

I received a call from the school nurse about "a" . It seems he was looking a little green and said his neck hurt. He had said the same thing this morning and I thought he had just slept wrong. I went ahead and picked him up early. By the time we got to my mom's, he was running a fever. I made a Dr. appointment for him for later that afternoon. In the meantime....
I called to reschedule the Girl Scout stuff.
Ran to the store while my mom watched germ ville.
As I was putting "a" into the car, he threw up!! Oh, by the way, his breath was really bad. (STREP!!!) Made it to the Dr.s, threw up again.
May I have the envelope, please. The winning illness is.... Strep Throat!! You win a penicillin shot in the hinny!!! There was definitely some loud noise about that one.
Home in time to pick up "A" and throw them into their rooms.
Walk into the house to a lovely smell. Two bags of Starbucks coffee beans all over my front room. Sumatra and Breakfast Blend for those who care.
Off to the 4pm meeting for the basket and then rush to get more goodies from the Girl Scouts.

Home for a quick dinner and books and bed. Don't forget medicine and ointment.
Then, Escape..... scrapbook at Starbucks until 11:30 pm with friends who try to keep me sane.

Don't ask about today( Saturday)

I don't want to sound cheesy, but I am so thankful for my husband. He has been so supportive of my decision to quit my job to stay at home even while working a job that he really dislikes. He has been jumping in wherever he is needed without a fuss (or much of one). With the kids being sick and the school Carnival coming up, and don't forget Girl Scout Fall Product sales, things have been getting kind of hairy around here. But he is always right there, helping with homework, dinner, bedtime or whatever needs to be done. I love him and can't imagine my world without him.

Elephant

Existing in the wild.
Looking all gray and wrinkly.
Excellent family values.
Pachyderm pride.
Huge footprints.
Always respected.
Not afraid of mice.
Tusks are teeth.

Why do they call it a white elephant gift? Have you noticed that the females are in control of the herd? Would it be a better picture if it were an elephant in a china shop? Why do people butcher these wonderful creatures just for a few bits and pieces? Hannibal used elephants to cross the Himalayas. India uses elephants for so many things. When are we going to accept that we have to share?

Unemployed

I am so glad that I am no longer working. I have had critters at home every day this week. "A" is now back at school after stomach issues. "L" is still running a fever and we will be making a trip back to the doctor. I could not imagine trying to take care of her while still working. That would not be fair. Even with sick children, I am so glad to be a mom!! Some day I will be able to do those things on my list.

Have you ever played with webdings? Here is the alphabet: Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk Ll Mm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz 1234567890 These are the coolest..
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PIRATES

My favorite pirates come from the movies. Johnny Depp, Errol Flynn, Douglas Fairbanks Sr., Tyrone Power, Carey Elwes. The more a rogue, the more attractive they were. There is just something about a man who can carry you away. The best storylines were the ones where the pirates became good after falling in love with the RIGHT woman. Don’t we all feel like we could be the one to turn the bad boy around? I might go check out a few great, black and white movies. That would make a fantastic girl’s night. We could call it Pirates and Popcorn.

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

Robert Frost (1874–1963). Mountain Interval. 1920.

1. The Road Not Taken


TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;
5

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,
10

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.
15

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.
20

Time Travel Tuesday

The subject is "My Greatest Adventure"

I have not really done anything that would be considered an adventure other than having children. I know it sound cheesy, but I was going to write about the time I went skiing when I was pregnant with "L". But that wasn't much of an adventure.
Every day my children remind me that life is an adventure. You can either watch it go by like in a movie or you can live it to its fullest. What is the saying? Grab life with both hands. I am always hearing of a situation where someone has it worse than I do and I think " Why am I complaining?" I enjoy watching my kids experience every second wholly and completely. There is no halfway with them, especially "a". I think of what my life would be without them and all I can say is, BORING!! My kids are constantly amazing me with how they think and what they see.

O.K. the word is SCHOOL. Lets see what I can do.

SCHOOL

Learning, growing, interacting socially
Building on the last lesson, building higher and higher
Until one day, reaching the stars and beyond.
Start small, simple joy in accomplishment.
Excitement, pride, also stressing over tests.
Relief, boredom, interesting subjects
Stretching your mind until you think it can’t hold anymore.
Discovering skills that will last a lifetime
Report card, progress reports GRADES, GRADES, GRADES
ACT, SAT, TAKS, IBS, TPRI
How am I doing? How are they doing? How are we doing?
Which books? What’s my combination? What’s the question?
Fourth Grade, Eighth Grade, Senior Year. I’m almost done!
I still have COLLEGE??!!

Mayhem Monday

My sister has started this. It seems like it might be cool to do. I hearby promise to try my best to keep up with it!!

Up before 7, that's right I said 7. No more crosswalk!!!!! Started to get everyone ready for school.

L: still running a fever,no school for her. Medicine, a drink and back to bed.

A: stomach problems that kept him in the bathroom. No school for him.

a: up and running as soon as his eyes were open!! Had breakfast and got dressed and headed in to school, no problem.

Me: Out into the rain to do the trash. Barefoot, of course. I almost got to play Mary Poppins with the umbrella. Dropped off little guy and then picked up carpool. Off to school we went. I was going to go work out, but with two at home sick, I thought that perhaps I should stay.

10am: I met with the wonderful lady who is doing the basket for "a" class for the Carnival this weekend. It is fantastic!! My friend who happens to work at Starbucks is donating several different coffees as well. Thanks, Jody Lynn!!!

11am : picked up "a" and he had a good day!! Whoo Hoo!! We went to the bookstore and bought some fun stuff. Off to Tuesday Morning to see about stuff for "L" class basket for the above mentioned Carnival.

To McDonald's for lunch and Braum's for dessert for everyone.

1pm Nap time for all sick people.

2:45- started afternoon carpool run, home by 3:15. That's right! No crosswalk!!!

The rest of the night consisted of: laundry, dishes, dinner, laundry, showers, books,laundry, teacher notes, laundry, and then some Mommy time.

I am part a political forum that meets each Monday night in October online. It is really interesting. This evening, we talked about whether or not public service (military as well as volunteering) should be mandatory. It was rather heated at times to say the least. I love being a part of this kind of thing. Not only do I feel that my voice is heard, but it does my children good to see that Mommy is active in more than just the house. It also, I hope, teaches them that they should be active in their world as well.

It is now 11:40 pm and I am waiting for a last load of laundry to finish and then I am off to bed to get ready for a day of school, doctors and Girl Scouts.

Counting Down

I have 8 more days to go before I am done with work. Well, getting paid for working. Well, getting paid in dollars for working. I have so many plans for when I get to stay home. I don't know what to pick first: organize the pantry, organize the freezer, organize my scrapbooking stuff, organize, organize, organize!! I might just sit and breathe for a few days. O.K. maybe just one day! My boss asked me if I could stay until December. He is on crack!!!! NO NO NO NO NO NO !


Halloween is coming up and two off my three have decided what they are going to be. Sort of. "a" is going to be a bat like Quincy from Little Einstein's. "L" is going to be a fairy, just not in the costume that I have already bought. It had fiber optics that flash in the dark. But it itches. Next she will complain that there is a pea in her bed!!

"A" has no idea what he will be. I think that this might be his last year with the family. I am going to ask my friend Hellen if he can hang with her older two. They have a good time together. I am sort of glad that he is growing up. He is the one that told me that he would never move out and will be with me always. I am glad that he is branching out, but he is still not embarrassed to show his affection. "a" and I went to "A" s school to drop off some money for lunch. We decided to eat there with "A". While we were in line, one of the boys in line looked at "A" and "a" and said, " They look exactly alike!" "A" just laughed and gave "a" a hug. He made sure that "a" was right there in line and o.k. the whole way. When lunch was over, "A" gave both of us a hug and a kiss and went off with his friends. He is still such a sweetie-pie.

My sister and her husband have birthdays in October and we have always gone over there for chili and fixings to celebrate. We missed last year because she was in Georgia :(

I really need to get on the ball with the decorating. I can't wait until I am done with work!!

The Jonas Brothers

For those of you who do not have tweens, today was the free concert at the State Fair of Texas. Yes, free. Well, it was 11.00 to get in and don't forget the cost of food. So sort of free.

It was also a million degrees out there with 3 four year olds, 1 six yr. old, 1 twelve yr. old, and three very hot adults. I would not have missed it for the world!! The Jonas Brothers are a very popular Disney group that our guys sing along with and have arguments about who their biggest fan is. "A" was an incredible help with the little guys who had about enough approx. 30 minutes into the concert.

I think I sweated off about 5 pounds and my voice is, well, lets just say it is in the alto range now.

It was an experience that I am glad we had, but I think I would do it a whole lot differently next time. Next time?!! What am I, crazy??!!

There were a whole lot of parents there who had the same look... I am doing this for my kids, but I sure don't remember any concerts like this when I was younger!!

what we wouldn't do for our little loves!
Now I have to get the CD and a poster for each of them. What was that about a free concert??

Snuggle Bunnies

I wish I could take a picture and show you what I see. Picture this: a small boy in the middle of a big bed with two cats around him. "a" and I took a nap together this afternoon in my bed. It was very sweet. I did not mean to fall asleep, but he puts off these "sleep vibes" as my husband calls them and sucked me into nap time. I know he is growing up and I should not treat him like a baby. "I'm a bigger boy" There is nothing like a small arm around your neck and sweet breath in your face. I do not understand these celebrity mothers who put the raising of their children into the hands of others. I could not imagine not being there to hear a sleepy little voice call out for me.

Those little "up up"s too quickly change into "watch me, momma!" and then into "Can I go over to my friends?" Every now and then I still get the extra trip back to the car from "A" to quietly say "I love you, Mom" that keeps me going. I cannot imagine being without that. I know that I am blessed for all that I have.

My children are an adventure every day and to have that taken away must be horrible. I hope that this is a wake-up call for a certain nameless young lady that there is more to life than parties. Maybe, someday, she can get her kids back, but she would have to straighten up a whole heck of a lot.

Now I am off to get my little princess who was up at 4am doing homework. She did go to bed at 4:30 the previous afternoon. She was one tired little princess.
I know they make me angry sometimes, but the good so outweighs the bad that I would not give any of it up.

A Quiet Sunday, NOT

I try to make Sundays just for the family spending time together having fun. So far, I think that has happened twice. That's it! Today, we were supposed to go to Sunday School. It did not work that way(my fault). We started out the day with the kids playing PS2. Well, "A" and "L" were playing with "a" doing his best to bother them. He was doing a very good job. "a" and I then went to play computer,just the two of us. It was fun!

Daddy decided that "A" was big enough to go get his own haircut. Now to let you know, it was only two blocks away. I was not comfortable with it to say the least!! I watched from the backgate the whole way. Daddy went to the hardware store. When Daddy came back, he had followed "A" without either one of us knowing. I guess he wasn't as comfortable as he said he was. Daddy had to make a second trip to the hardware store and checked on "A". We have been to this salon for quite a number of years and the people there know us very well. "A" did a great job and got back with no problems at all.

Daddy and "A" then did some repair work to the floor by the back door. It seems when we had the new door put in, it wa not sealed. We then put a new floordown. Well, I am sure that it is no surprise that the boards by the developed holes from moisture. The boys (all three) replaced to boards and even cleaned up after themselves. Very Cool!

I checked my emails and "L" played more PS2. We were lazy. I had 47 emails, no exaggeration.

"L" then decided to work on her book. She is 6. The title is "Making New Friends" Right now she is doing the artwork. It looks to be very good. I would really like to get at least one copy made professionally and bound so that she can have one for herself.

The picture above shows what hard work creating can be.

Daddy decided we have all worked so hard today that he would like to go out to eat. I'm all for that.

Calgon, Take me away!

For those of you who don't know about this commercial, it was on several years ago. It had a mom that had kids fighting, the baby crying, the doorbell ringing and the dog barking. Calgon was a bath soap and with all of this going on the mom said, "Calgon, take me away" and she was magically in a bubblebath. Yeah right! If I did that in my house I am not sure if my house would still be standing when I got out of the bathtub. Either that or someone would be knocking on the bathroom door incessantly. Clagon would have to take me to a different house altogether!

Having said all that, I sure wish that I could have done that today. L is home from school for the rest of the week with impetaigo(?). And the doctor said her allergies were out of control. When L heard that she told the Dr. that they were having a party(the allergies) The doctor laughed and told L that her allergies forgot to invite her. L pops off with " My white blood cells are there." She got a shocked look from the Dr. This child really needs the gifted program.

On to the day...
After taking the other two to school, L and I had to run some errands. We only did those that we did not have to get out of the car for. We then hurried back to get "a" and headed to yet another errand. We then went to Grandma's house and had fun. Then it was hurry back home for "A". We then had a really good time. (NOT) I sent the kids on a laundry hunt while I did the dishes and made dinner. It didn't quite work out. After dinner, I sent them on a laundry hunt, again. That was a mistake. With all the laundry piled up and sorted, it really showed me how much laundry I actually had. Let's just say that each type of laundry (whites, dark, etc.) did not fit into a basket. I think that the kids had a good time sorting, though. They had quite a production line going. "A" would toss in item to "a" and tell him the type, "a" would toss it to L and into the pile it would go. Whatever works, right?

Then, it was book and bed.

A quiet few minutes and the Daddy came home ( 8pm) from work and I get to spend time with him. Doesn't it sound great? I can't wait until I don't have to do anything at all with crosswalk.

Little Guys

Wednesday, I have a conference with "a" 's pre-k teacher. She also taught "A" when he was in kindergarten. We love her!! I am afraid that she is going to tell me that "a" is too young for school yet. I'm not sure how I feel about that. On the one hand I am sad because he is just not ready for the fun that is school. On the other hand, he is my last and there is a part of me that says "good, more time with him".

I was talking with a friend of mine who had a different take on the situation. At first she said that it was a cultural thing. That black people were more the push you out of the nest kind (she is black). Then she said that it was maybe a single mom thing. She has so much to do to take care of everything else that her kids are self sufficient sooner. She said that when they are 18 they are on their own. In college, homeless shelter or on the street.

I was thinking how sad that was. I am all for independence in my kids and you guys know that my kids have independence down to a fine art!! I still would find it hard to just say o.k., get out. I would like to believe that my children would have the same relationship with me that I have with my parents. I love them, know that they care, and yes they are interfering sometimes, but that is a sign that they love you. I respect my parents not only because they are my parents, but because of the experiences that they have had. I want them to be a part of my life forever.

I want them to interfer in my life when I am 80!! I want my children to feel the same way about me. Know that I love them and always will and that I will be there when they need me. I will always stand by them as they make their mistakes in life and if I can say something to make their lives easier, I will. Does that mean that they will listen? Probably not, but they can fail knowing that I will still love them.

After all, isn't that what our parents were trying to instill in us?
Oh, well. after this I think I will just take things as they come.

Ninja Turtle

I'm not sure what he is supposed to be. It is a bit of a shock to be talking on the phone and have this come out to you. It does tend to end the conversation. I did not get too mad because it is washable.

This is what hppens when imaginations run amuck. They are ninja turtles. His back was worse. Thank you Crayola for inventing washable markers. You really can't see it, but he has a wrist communicator as well.

A Weight is Gone

Well, I did it. I called my boss and told him that Oct. 19 is my last day. I don't think it bothered him. He asked me to pick someone to replace me. Is that my job? I asked one of the guards that has seniority and she is going to think about it. Then my boss passed someone else to me to show her what I do. I am NOT going to stress any longer. I am going to call my guards and let them know that I am quitting and to pick up their paystubs now. My kids come first!!

After dinner, we read a book (Bear's New Friend) and made a cake. L and a got to lick the beaters while A got to lick the bowl. Daddy got the spatula. They all got tucked into bed on time!! Early, even. What a relief to know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I want to be a mom again!

L got paperwork for the Gifted and Talented program at her school. Last year the teacher told us that she was not eligible for the GT program. Now, I am not bragging, but anyone who has met L says, HUH? to this. She began speaking when she was two and really has not stopped expressing herself. ( I may have said this before but I blame my sister) We will see what happens. If she does not qualify this time, no problem. I think I will just keep her learning extra stuff here at home.

It feels good to focus on my children.

Family Day

Sunday: A day of calm and being with family. In a dream!!

"A" heads off to Sunday school at 9am. Back to the house to grab DD to head to her class at 10:45.

DH and I have serious talk about my continuing to work. I am supposed to be working part-time as a lead crossing guard. I took this job because I was able to spend time with my kids while doing something important. I quit a supervisor position at a financial institution after DD was born. I understand what it is to work full time and to bring work home with you. I QUIT that job. I now have 20 schools to supervise. That means about 40 guards (44 including substitutes). Next year, I have been told that the ISDs that I cover will be opening 5 new elementary schools. My job is to fill all the positions, liason between schools, parents and crossing guards, to visit each school in a timely fashion to make sure that the guards are doing what they are supposed to, and to subsitute when necessary. All I have been doing is working a stop. I am VERY stressed. I have parents, schools and supervisors calling me about various things all the time. I have no control over the firing and hiring of guards, that is up the ladder. My back is killing me, my house is a mess, and my kids are pretty much on their own. Sounds like whining, huh? I know what to do. I just have to do it.

On to the day.

I have just had to take a little break to do crosswalk stuff. It is 8:30pm.

After DD was done with Sunday school, we went to Grandma's house. We were going to make cookies. We had even brought our own flour, sugar, pans, etc. When the kids got there all they wanted to do was play. So Grandma and I sat and had a good talk.

* Earlier, "a" had called "H"(college) and said:

"H, this is "a". I miss you. You are a busy girl. Will you play blocks with me? We are going to Grandma's house."

This is how a conversation with a 4 yr old goes.

She then told me that she would show up at Grandma's house as a surprise. When she got there, everyone was so excited. You would have thought it had been years since we have seen her. We saw her about a week ago. She is great. She played outside and inside and sat for a portrait by DD. She left to go finish some homework and see a movie with her roommate. The kids really had a good time. It was a very nice surprise.

While this was going on, DH and"A" and 7 of his closest friends went to the Ranger game (thanks, Grandpa).

Home, then showers, then dinner and while watching Winnie The Pooh, both little guys crashed. It was a very good day.

Just a quiet minute to sit down while the kids play CandyLand and dinner is cooking. Quick! Hurry! This won't last long.

Today was not so bad. "Aa" and Dad went to baseball practice early this morning. I actually got to sleep late (past 7) Lauren and I had a snuggly few minutes before we had to go get "a" from my sister's after the backyard campout. I hope he survived ( I hope she survived).

Pause for mediating the argument. I don't type real fast but I am not really slow, either. It did not take long for the fight to start.

After picking up "a" we went to get Grandma's house to pick her up to go to Girl Scouts. "a" did not make it home before he was asleep.

We got two new girls for the troop so we are out of the "problem" file.

Home in time for Daddy to go to his charity poker tournament with a buddy. He might play poker later as well. Even Daddies get alone time.

Dinner and a friend for "A" to spend the night.

Sunday school tomorrow for "A" and "L" so bed early, I hope.

Well, it didn't happen. Little guys down at 9:45 after WII and two books, one more bathroom, Spider Bear, please, my nose hurts,etc.

Let's finish my project for history because tomorrow we are going to the baseball game and we won't have time. Yes, we have had this project all week.
Dad can help finish it. I am exhausted.

Friday at Last!!

Today's schedule:

1.Kids to school- "a" made it all the way in only looking back once.
2.Gym for quick 30 min walk.
3.police station to pick up badges and slips from last payperiod
4.copy two sets of roommom intro letters
5.downtown to police training facility to pick up this payperiods slips and forms.
6.Rush to p/u "a"-Good day!! Drop off room mom letters for Monday
7.P/u neighbor for treat at Chick-fil-a for a good week for the kids. Ice cream at Braum's
8.drop off one payroll check
9.Head over to a new school to see where to put new crossing guard
wait and wait and wait-"a" is being really good. We read three stories and played the "I'm thinking of..." game several times. When we went to look at the crosswalks with the vice-principal--"a" tried to go down two separate storm drains. "Cool, it goes way down"
10.make it back to current crosswalk just in time
11.pick up "Aa" and carpool, no lizard saving this time. Yesterday there was a gecko in his backpack that we had to catch and bring all the way home to let go in our backyard.
12Drop off three paychecks
13.get home-unload car get kids in and melt!

Still to do:

Dinner-Pizza!
"a" to LaLa for backyard campout ( I am a little worried-see previous post)
"L" and Daddy on a date
"Aa"( 12 ds) to friend's house to work on school musical
Me to scrapbook!!!

*somewhere in there-shower, pack up and drive to sister's thru traffic and back-urguggle

I think it can be done!!

Why I believe in Angels

Today, my sister watched my youngest son while I had a teacher conference(see previous post). I get a phone call while I am on my corner crossing kids and my sister says "We have a situation" Not a good thing to hear!

For those who do not know little A ("a"), he broke two bones before he was four. The first one, he fell off a bed and had a buckle fracture in his wrist. My three were playing on the bed ( no more monkeys on the bed!) He went through the whole process and got his cast off within four weeks. On the day we were due to go back to the doctor, he fell of the bed and broke his collarbone!! THE SAME BED! His mattress is now on the floor.

He likes to start at the top of my driveway and ride down on his scooter as fast as he can and see how far he can go. Yes, he is only four and not very balanced. It just does not matter to him.

On Labor Day, my four year old nephew had to stop "a" from riding a skateboard down the stairs in my brother's house!! It seemed like a good idea at the time. The wall would stop him!

So when I got the phone call today, all sorts of things go through my head. It seems that my sister had a candle in her bathroom and while doing his duty, "a" decides to see how well toilet paper burns. Oh yes, you understood me correctly. His cousin watched from the hallway as "a" twisted up some paper and put it into the flame. Nothing was said until much later when my sister saw the blackened paper and asked the boys about it. "C" said "a" did it and "a" said " It was only a little fire. It's o.k the clothes got only a little burned" AAAARGH!

When my husband and I discussed it with "a" this evening, he said that it was a medium fire. There was only a little smoke.

O.K. Any fire is scary. Through all this-no one got hurt, not even singed! Nothing was burned at all. Not even clothes. We didn't even smell smoke and the smoke detectors did not even go off. I know my sister keeps up with those.

My youngest once told me he wanted to go into space like the astonauts. We are off to a good start. stuntman, test pilot, spaceman.

There must be a whole fleet of angels looking out for him. Whoever you are, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!!

Thankful Thursday

My sister tells me that this Thankful Thursday (she is part of another blogger group). Being new at this, I thought, Why not?

I am thankful for my friend Hellen. She has alot going on in her life and is still together (mostly). Her daughter has been through a very rough time. She has been diagnosed with R.S.D. http://www.rsds.org She is only 12 years old. There are constant medical concerns. In the midst of this, she finds time to spend with her son and her husband. She also has a business of her own to take care of. She does mosaic and scrapbooking. She has redone her living room. She and her husband are trying to open up a fish store with a friend. I could go on and on and on. Through it all, she is positive and upbeat. She even asks how I am doing!! Like she doesn't have enough!!

I am thankful that she is in my life to show me how to keep it together even when falling apart. She is a great friend anda whole lot of fun. I can call her to laugh and cry and yell and she always makes me feel better. I really appreciate her.

Love you Hellen!!

Why the Kraziness

6 am: Up while it is still dark! Gradually wake up one four year old (who is grumpy), one 12 year old (who is grumpy) and one six year old (who is way grumpy!). Convince the dog(who is grumpy) that ,Yes, it is time to go out.

6:15 Speak rather firmly my son(12), o.k., yell at him to get into the shower. Explain to my 4 yr old son the , No, we cannot watch T.V. until everyone is ready to go. This is not a new rule. It has been in place all year. He must be trying to wear me down. Tell my daughter (6) that if she does not get up, I get to pick her clothes out for her. She got up.

6:45 We are ready, barring shoes and socks. Daddy bought donut gems for breakfast. Not so good, of course. If we did not have donuts in the house, they would have wanted them.

7:15 Backpacks packed, shoes on, ready to go. Oh, by the way, I want to bring my lunch today! DD(dear daughter). She has recently decided that she is allergic to jelly and only wants peanut butter. She has also decided that she is allergic to spots on her clothes. Pack her lunch and we are out the door at 7:30!!

7:40 We are finally in the car! Get to the school without having to go back for anything!! Two youngest are at school and in the building ( whether the youngest actually gets into his class is up to the teacher)

*in between all this, I am getting calls from crossing guards (I'm the lead) about trouble with lights, needing off, etc.*

*Don't forget the husband (while you are out today could you....)

8:10 Pick up carpool ( just one) and head to the middle school.

8:15 head back to carpool's apartment to get the forgotten permission slip

8:25 Drop 12 year old off with everything he needs(I hope). Wait 5 minutes to get out of the school drive.

8:30 Get to the gym.!! Walk and talk for 30 minutes. Talk to my friend outside the gym.

9:45 throw a load of clothes in, let the dog out to finish his business. Check some e-mails

Somewhere in there I get to eat breakfast
ME TIME!

10:30 jump in the shower

10:50 get in line to pick up youngest. He had a happy face daty Talk to my boss about payroll issues.

11:00 We are on the way to my sister's house. She is watching him while I am at a teacher conference for my daughter. No problems- she is finishing her work too fast and then talking. I blame my sister.

1200 Leave my sister's and head home to scarf some lunch and get to the conference at 1:30

1:30 Conference time!!

2:00 Done! " I am really impressed with L's language abilities" ( She talks too much) The teacher is really on top of things though. I hope it will be a great year.

* Don't have time to get back to my sister's before afternoon crosswalk. Feel sorry for her- She has three boys who are all four years old!! (mine and her twins)

2:30-3:15 Train new crossing guard.

3:30 Pick up carpool at middle school

4:00 Snack time and going through backpacks trying to prevent the " Oh, by the way Mom..." for tomorrow morning.

The rest of the evening will consist of Laundry, homework, projects (2 of them), dishes, dinner, showers, books, and bed for the children. Somewhere in there is time with my husband. Finish with my e-mails. Watch a little T.V. Make sure everything is ready for tomorrow morning. Fall into bed about 11:30.

Today is a calm day.