What was I thinking???

The joy of James

2015-05-22T20:20:00.001-04:00

A couple of days ago James was playing catch with an old baseball at Patrick and Tommy's baseball game when the ball caught him in the nose. It left a mark and a few tears were shed but that was it. Tonight as we were leaving our city's baseball tournament, James said I can see my injury. I told him don't worry in a few days it will go away. He said "Really, I kind of like it?" I said "are the girls asking you what happened?" He said "No more the boys. I tell them we were playing a family game of baseball and I went up against the fence to make a catch. Or I change it up and tell them I made a diving stop on the cement". Smart kid. I love him!

The crazy time of year has arrived

2014-05-02T10:55:00.003-04:00

Tis the season to balance school, sports and everything in between. John is still on the travel team which includes tournaments. I was lucky enough to use the loop hole in the rec league rules to keep James in coach pitch baseball for one more year. I moved Tommy up to the same league as Patrick and James - boom life is easier - at least for this year. Then the date came out for tryouts for the rec league tournament team. Not only did Patrick want to try out but James did too! This is the kid who I had to talk into playing again this season! Well they both made the team so it is going to be a baseball filled Summer. I am excited for James and Patrick - they will get more time of playing the game and improve their skills. I would have had Tommy try out but this is his first year in the 7-8 year old league and I think we need to give him a year to get seasoned at this level. Next week the OAA tests are being given at school. John and James' class have been preparing for the last two weeks. John has come home with work packets to help prepare. He brought home the science one which was for extra credit - but the mom in me was like yes you are doing it. He didn't bring home a science book so we could use that as reference to make it easier - so it was a challenge. Thank goodness I can use the internet to look up definitions of things I do not remember. I think once these tests are over the kids will be on easy street as far as school work goes. James passed his Reading OAA in the Fall and in Ohio the law is you must pass this test to advance to 4th grade. So hopefully we will see an improvement from the Fall! Some interesting observations made by Matt and myself this week. I always thought Patrick was the instigator but it turns out Tommy might be following in his footsteps. I observed yesterday Tommy calling Patrick a girl and when Patrick denied being a girl then Tommy went for his round stuffed football toy known as Baby Skin It and called that a girl. Patrick obviously saw through his ways as I'm sure he has tried this game before and was not rattled. Then Matt told me this morning how Tommy told James how he looked like Patrick. I'm sure that got to James just a little bit - but of course he denied looking like Patrick. I am going to have to keep an eye on that kid!

A look at the future?

2013-12-04T12:17:00.001-05:00

Let me start off by saying since the boys have been back in school I have been volunteering with the PTA and in James' class that it feels like I went out and got a part time job. The kids are doing fantastic in school. Tommy had no problems adjusting to all day kindergarten. The only hard adjustment was on my end at homework. It always hectic to make sure they get the attention they need even if they don't want it. So now why I am here. To share a story I can not believe I am even going to tell. On Friday at lunch I think it was Matt noticed someone wrote in pencil on the kitchen wall by where John and James sit. By John's seat it was J K and by James seat it was J J K. The writing was faint but still noticeable. Of course no one knew who wrote it so the chess match then began after he had James erase the writing. Matt would go back and forth with the boys together and individually. No one would admit to it or "remembered" doing it. At one point the boys were upstairs and we heard Tommy say "Ok let's get our story straight". What story?? Either you wrote on the wall or you didn't. Tommy even played spy at the top of the stairs to let the other boys know what was going on downstairs. He has to work on being more quiet in the future if he wants to get away with it. They eventually came back down. John was in tears and said he guesses he did it even though he didn't remember doing it. Everyone seemed ok with this plan except Matt and I. At one point when John was alone with us I assured him I did not think he did it. No one ever fessed up to it so they all were punished with no Xbox. I hope this isn't the sign of what is to come when they are older.

Summer Days

2013-06-11T08:08:00.003-04:00

The boys had a successful school year! Lots of A's on the report cards so this summer we will do our best to not lose what they learned! Baseball season has been good but rain is wreaking havoc on the schedule. I hope they get to make up some of the games but I can see the younger boys having the games not made up unfortunately. Next weekend we will travel to Cincinnati for a tournament for John's team. I am hoping all will go smoothly with the hotel, the younger kids being entertained and getting to church. Yesterday we were headed to the library Tim McGraw's song "Next 30 Years" was on the radio. John was saying "Wow I am going to be 40!" They then ask how old I will be and of course Matt. Patrick then asks how old will he be in 10 years. I said 16. Patrick moaned in disappointment. Tommy says that is cool you will get to drive! I said we will see you need to pay for car insurance have a car etc. To that John replies - I don't want to drive. I will just ride RTA my whole life. Oh that is too funny!! Time to go entertain and keep the boys busy!

Baseball Season is here!

2013-04-24T13:26:00.000-04:00

Yes here it is Baseball Season where I run 4 kids on 3 teams to practice. John's practices have been going on since mid February so it's no big deal. The only crazy night we have is on Tuesday when they all practice. Luckily the start/end times are spread out enough that I have my sanity by the end of the night. Tommy is doing FANTASTIC! He has always been drawn to the Boston Red Sox and Big Papi so as luck would have it his team is the Red Sox. I am very impressed with his hitting and his accurate throws. We still need to work on catching the ball. Oh and his teammates need to pay attention too lol! Patrick and James are on the same team. Patrick technically should be in Tommy's league but he played enough games with James when they were short players I moved him up. I haven't had a chance to sit and watch a whole practice for their team yet so I can't say how they are doing. I worry for James not to be afraid of the ball and not to get hurt when playing. They are very happy to be in the manly man ranks by wearing athletic supporters this year. The coach suggested the players wear them and I figured it couldn't hurt. So this leads me back to a couple of years ago when I was looking for a cup for John. I had everyone with me and Patrick wanted to know why we were at Dick's Sporting Goods. I called it a penis protector as I knew he would understand what I meant because I didn't really want to have a 30 minute conversation about the whole thing. A few months later we were back for something else and Patrick says "hey I remember this place - we got a penis protector for John". So fast forward to last night Patrick needed help getting all his pants up after using the bathroom. John walks by and says "It's so small" and Patrick said "Of course because I'm small". After further review I realized all the cups were the same size. Its just the briefs or sliding shorts are different sizes. We have John's schedule and we are waiting on the others. I am hoping there are too many conflicts that I can enjoy rooting my boys on!

5 YEARS!!

2013-02-06T13:46:00.000-05:00

Can you believe in less than 2 weeks my little boy that changed my life forever is going to be 5??!! This is the little boy that influenced this blog, that forced me to become a stay at home mom, that is my buddy for life! I found him a new brand shirt this week at our local Thrift store that was the same brand clothing I used to buy for his older brothers when they were little. I dressed him in it today and took his picture. It reminded me of how I used to take his picture ALL the time in the first two years of his life and now its for holidays, birthdays or just when we are on a fun outing. I met with his preschool teacher yesterday. Nothing she said surprised me. After all I've spent everyday of his life with him and am proud of everything he has learned. It is nice to see that he maturing into an independent little boy. I will miss having him around next school year. For now I am enjoying every day we are together. Happy Birthday Tommy!

Happy New Year!

2013-01-15T13:59:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! It was truly a magical Christmas this year. My parents retired this past Fall and moved back to Ohio to be close to us. It was so nice to spend time with them and not to feel rushed into enjoying every moment we were together. The boys have enjoyed numerous sleep overs and I'm sure the run of the place! My parents keep asking them back so I guess they haven't wore out their welcome! Last Friday I called the Elementary school to register Tommy. I can't believe in a little over a month he will be 5! I will miss his company and his help. Some days, like when I have a lot of errands to run, I won't miss him. It turns into a negotiation or bribery. It definitely will be different in the day and chaotic after they get off the bus. I hope I figure out how to help them all and we can still have our relaxing time. Patrick went on a field trip today. I think I have been privileged enough to accompany the boys on every field trip (Matt got to a few) they have been on. Of course I would have loved to gone to Playhouse Square to see a play. I hope he remembers about what happened. Of course he was super excited. Up at the crack of dawn. He asked me what the date was and I said the 15th! He said "It's Martin Luther King's Birthday!" After a little back in forth he said "Now we get to sing 'We Three Kings'!" I said "His last name is King - he is not a King!. " Super busy weekend coming up. James has a basketball game then we are off to Tribe Fest. I hope we can meet some of the players that will be there. We have to be back to Willowick so we can attend our church's Anniversary Dinner. Matt and I will be honored with their Stewardship Award. They like to give it out to someone in each age group. Matt was fortunate enough that we were placed in the 30's age group. We are still laughing about it! Sunday John's basketball has a team mass at 9, the kids have religion class at 10 and then John's basketball game at 1pm. Thank goodness we have Monday off to chill out. I do need to come up with a plan to keep them out of trouble!

Homework fun!

2012-10-02T13:00:00.001-04:00

So now that we are in our 5th week of school I now know homework time is a crazy time. John and James do work independently but they need to be quizzed on various things plus I need to talk to them so I understand what is going on before "they forget". Here is how the afternoon goes. The kids get off the bus and everyone makes a mad dash for the bathroom. Some like to hunker down in there to do their "reading" and take care of other things. Patrick is one of them which delays our one on one time. I use the time to go through their folders to see what is going on in school. Then its help Patrick complete his work with James asking for help too. In the meantime I have Tommy playing on the computer or watching TV quietly. To make things fun John has a Science test this week so I am quizzing him on what he needs to know. God help us next year if Tommy needs to hunker down in a bathroom after school because I think we will be in trouble. Oh yea - something to look forward too! LOL!

School is now in session!

2012-09-11T13:30:00.002-04:00

I really was going to blog about Back to School like 2 weeks ago and then I got pulled in another direction. John and James seem to be fine with being in the back to school mode. James is still getting used to his new teacher and "not being afraid" of her. She is tall but I don't think scary! Patrick and Kindergarten is a story of itself. My lucky go happy kid - couldn't wait for school to start - does not like school. I'm sure some of that is true - after all he is gone for around 6 hours. The first day he came home distressed his teacher left him at lunch. I also found out that it was little chaotic after his first recess so I'm sure that didn't settle well with him. When he does come home after a while he tells me about his day and I can see the sparkle in his eye he does like it. He tells me everyday how his belly hurts and he misses me. I feel like my little baby calf is being weened. Tommy is now in his first full week (3 days) of preschool. He was miserable on the day we both went to school. I think a lot of it had to do with me being there. I was his crutch. His first day on his own he had a good day. His teacher said he even talked to her. I will be interested to see how tomorrow goes -- his first show and tell. They have a letter of the week and you bring in something that starts with the letter. We decided he could take in Acorns because that is different than Apples. I've been prepping him to say 3 things - A is for Acorn. They come from Oak trees and squirrels like to eat them. Let's hope he doesn't whisper the whole thing! When I picked him up last Thursday he saw me in the hallway - he smiled but then he tried not to like he was miserable. My favorite Back to School Moment with Tommy was when he asked me if Patrick could wait for him in Kindergarten. I laughed and told him both you and Patrick are too smart to be held back 1 year! Today is September 11th and Royalview Elementary is honoring our police and firefighters. Apparently all the grades wrote a letter to the police and firefighters. John said yesterday his teacher said his letter was the best so he will represent his class to give the firefighters their notes! I'm so proud! I would love to know what he wrote but of course that happened last week and we can't remember!

A first for me!

2012-08-15T09:54:00.001-04:00

So the kids are in Bible School this week. That means I am all by myself for 3 hours each day. The first two days I did some cleaning and today I'm trying to figure out what to do. I always thought I wouldn't miss the kids when they were in school but I do miss them. I think I miss the Tommy the most because I am so used to having him by my side. He has been so brave at drop off. Not too many tears... he just holds on to me tight. I do think he likes being a big kid when he tells me about his day at school. Over the weekend my Mom had the kids overnight on Saturday. Another first for them and us! Again it was a little weird. I kept looking in at Tommy's bed to see him sleeping. Of course he was sad when we showed up at my Mom's to pick them up. He had some more playing to do apparently! It is good to know I have one more school year before Tommy goes all day. I have lots of fun activities planned this Fall.

Baseball over..back to school supplies being bought

2012-07-18T14:37:00.001-04:00

Wow we just returned from Target and they took down their big Summer pictures hanging from the ceiling and now its just pencils showing you which way to the school supplies. What a fun and exciting summer we are having. All the boys have had successful baseball seasons. John had the 2nd highest batting average on his team so he earned a ticket to the league's All Star game at Classic Park. So he was able to warm up with the All Stars, get introduced and receive a very nice medal and listen to the National Anthem. Then he and Matt were off to Mayfield to compete with his team in a tournament which they earned the #1 seed. Unfortunately they lost the game. Luckily he was able to play in the division All Star game the following night. James and Patrick did a lot of growing with their baseball skills. James continues to hit the ball really well. He still needs to get over his fear of the ball but he sure enjoyed being the catcher when he had the opportunity. Patrick played in a coach pitch for 5-6 year olds but was able to play in a lot of games with James' team. He did well enough that I will move him up next year. I can't wait to see Tommy on the ball field next year! It has been such a hot summer I feel like I haven't taken the kids many places. The one day we did go to the zoo but with the heat they were not all that enthused. I was able to obtain a membership to the Cleveland Science Center on Living Social but we have not been there yet. I am thinking next week we need to get there. I can't believe it is already the middle of July!! On Sunday I started buying school supplies for the boys. I actually think I am almost finished. As much as I can't wait for Tommy to be in school full time buying for 3 kids is a little crazy!! I can't imagine looking at 4 lists!! My parents moved back to Ohio this week. My Dad still has a little over 3 months before his retirement but Mom is here to get everything settled. It is just so weird having them close again. I'm sure in a couple weeks it will feel like they never left! I know the boys are going to love it! James already has his eye on Halloween and what costume he wants and after looking at the toys at Target he has his other eye on Christmas!! Oh boy!

Let the fun begin!

2012-04-27T09:54:00.001-04:00

Since the beginning of the month it has been crazy in this house. We have 3 kids playing on 3 different baseball teams and as of last week one kid playing two sports. Last Saturday we had a full day of practices to attend but the rain canceled them so we had some unexpected down time. This Saturday we have more of the same with a Soccer picture session to kick things off. My head is spinning from trying to remember who has what. Thank goodness for my calendar online and on our fridge. I am most especially thankful that Tommy isn't begging to play baseball this year. Next year will be soon enough. I think if it works out we will always have 3 baseball teams and after this year no more soccer which eliminates the craziness of 2 sports at the same time.

Great Memories

2012-03-29T16:37:00.002-04:00

Last week James had his 1st grade musical performance. They sung a variety of Disney songs. It was a great mix of the new ones with the old classics like the original Mickey Mouse song. The kids did fantastic. Last night on the way to John's practice James mentioned he was sad that his grandparents couldn't see him perform. I explained that I video taped it so we could show my parents the video when we see them at Easter. He said yes but I also mean Grandma and Grandpa Keough. He continued "I think they were watching me from Heaven!" I told him indeed they were. They are watching over all the boys daily and I'm sure they were bragging to their other friends in heaven how proud they are of all of them. I'm so glad James keeps their memory alive. I hope it will help Patrick and Tommy as they get older to remember them too.

The Potty Stories

2012-01-09T13:03:00.000-05:00

Since Tommy has become potty trained it has led to all sorts of new discoveries and curiosities. On Friday night after John played baseball on an Indoor League I get everyone loaded into the car and Tommy announces he has to go pee. Instead of lugging everyone back into the building I pull out my trusty "pee in the bottle" bottle for these such emergencies. Tommy takes care of business and then James from the back seat says "hey, let me see your pee" so Tommy proudly shows him the bottle! Every morning I encourage Tommy to go to the bathroom immediately after he wakes up. On Saturday Patrick says "Do you hear what I hear?" I said "No". He said it's Tommy peeing! Yippe! Today coming home from a park program for Tommy he says "Do you know that Army guys sometimes pee in the woods?" I said "I had no idea who told you this?" He replied "James". Great information to pass along to your brother I suppose! Oh yes I forgot to mention James is now showering instead of taking a bath which is a real nice change of pace for me. You definitely know when he cleans his privates. He giggles like a little school girl. Out of control!

No more babies in my house!

2011-12-01T17:05:00.001-05:00

It looks like it is official. The day I have been waiting for to announce to the world. Tommy is finally potty trained. A couple weeks ago I hated life as a stay at home mom. I was at my wits end. Tommy was stubborn and I was trying to be just as stubborn. I was making him sit on the potty until he would use it. A couple times he said he was finished only later to go in his pants. Finally on Friday, November 18th, I made him wear underwear. By his reaction I knew it was the right move. He had no more excuses. He had to use the potty. He has had a few accidents here and there but more times then not he uses the potty! In fact today he had to go just before it was time for us to pick up Patrick. He would not get off the potty until he went. Luckily, I know another mother in the class who could bring Patrick home otherwise we would have been in a pickle. I am extremely happy that my diaper and wipes buying days are over. I will miss getting the bonus fuel perks from Giant Eagle. We haven't officially ditched rather burnt the diaper pail but I see that happening in the near future. Next week Patrick turns 5! It is so hard to believe! He will be star student for his class in a couple weeks so I had to look back at pictures from the past to print. It seemed like an eternity since he was a baby. It made me look at all the kids as babies. We also watched some videos of when they were little. Watching the videos of the babies made James ask for another one. He asked me yesterday how babies come out of my belly. I said it was magic. He then asked if the baby was cut out. I decided to go with it because its true even if it didn't happen to me. He then responded he was glad he was a man. Boy he doesn't know the half of it! LOL! The kids are still driving me absolutely bonkers at times. Don't they know they are supposed to be good at all times because Santa's elves are watching?? Maybe we should get an elf!

Dreams and Aspirations

2011-11-07T13:50:00.000-05:00

Everyone has dreams whether they are realistic or not. I love that my kids have dreams and I have dreams for them. For example, I aspire that one day we will be a diaper free house! I'm truly hoping this will happen sooner than later. I am making Tommy aware of his choices but he chooses to be stubborn. So my dream is not yet a reality. Matt told me last week that John is still dreaming about becoming a Major League Baseball player. I love this dream. I hope he can hold on to it for a while. John was telling Matt "I know I am going to North High School, but it would be really cool if I could play baseball at St. Ed's." Matt was laughing because he was wondering where did the talk of St. Ed's came from. We only talk about two high schools in our house, Lake Catholic and Eastlake North. Matt was saying "What happened to Lake Catholic?" While I was saying "What part of 'he is going to North High doesn't he get??" as I don't even want to know what that tuition bill looks like. A month from today Patrick will be turning 5 years old. This really seems hard to believe. He is so independent and happy go lucky that I can't wait to see how he continues to grow. I think back at when he was one years old throwing a tantrum at 5:30 in the morning because he was the one not to get the waffle out of the freezer and he didn't get lifted up to put it in the toaster. So I asked Patrick what he wanted for his birthday and Christmas. His reply was "Wii games, Wii games, Wii games" with a giggle. I said yes I know that but realistically you will not get to play on the Wii 24/7. I could not get a straight answer out of him. So hopefully I choose wisely. I need to figure this one out soon. Yes I have the Wii games. James dreams are changing daily. I thought I had him all figured out for Christmas and now he saw a new catalog and now that is all out of the window. Too bad I already made a few purchases. Yesterday he rode a bicycle without training wheels for the first time. It does not surprise me he did this. He has such great balance on his scooter that I knew he would master this accomplishment. Matt was the one that got to witness this accomplishment. I'm so happy he did. James is also dreaming about going hunting for turkey. I'm guessing he chose to hunt for turkey because it is a small animal compared to a deer or bear. He will have to wait until he gets a little older but for now he can dream about it.

Oh my time has gone by!

2011-10-24T13:39:00.005-04:00

Needless to say it has been a busy Summer and Fall with the boys. Also with Facebook and Twitter now available it is easier to type a quick thought or a funny story. John, James and Patrick are doing well in school. James is a lot more sociable in school than he was in last year. Patrick handled the transition to a new school that offered a Pre-K that was perfect for our schedule very well. John continues to excel and even has received an award for showing Respect for other people. As you can see Tommy's name should be included in this bragging about my kid in school thought however this child is stubborn beyond reason. I have taken away Wii, watching Wii, the computer - everything I can think of to not give him an excuse as to not use the potty. He is just refusing. People have bribed the child with money and still nothing. I have decided that James and Tommy will take care of me in my old age. After all they both dragged their feet at potty training so it is only fair! To top it off he is outgrowing naps so this makes what do I do with him while Patrick takes advantage of his Wii time. Right now he is in his bedroom playing. I guess this is the way it will have to be. Maybe this will help him get the message. I'm ready to send him away to potty training camp. If only there was such a thing!

As I'm typing I'm uploading pictures to Shutterfly to make the year in review book. I usually make it around now so I have a few extra copies made for Christmas presents and then I make one up after Christmas to include Patrick's birthday! It will be funny if I go way over 20 pages because we really haven't taken a lot of pictures. Hopefully the cell phone pictures turn out well in the book. Crazy technology. I should look to see if they have an app that uploads the pics from your cell phone. Man would that save time!

I would like to dedicate this post to my mother who misses these fun blog entries!

Birthday Fun!

2011-03-23T13:40:00.002-04:00

Today is my birthday and the kids are very excited. I encouraged them to sleep in because let's face it the more peace and quiet in the morning for me the better! They did not take my advice and were up early. It was ok because before you know it breakfast was over and we were snuggled on the couch watching morning cartoons. Then the "hey Mom, I'm still hungry" statements started. I think I am going to make them go to Snackers Anonymous!

So last month was Tommy's birthday, mine today and in 2 weeks is John's. I usually don't make a cake for my birthday but instead look for a delicious pie or cheesecake. I found a pie at the store that looks so delicious. Its still in the freezer because my neighbor made me a cake! It looks very tasty too! I had my neighbor watch the boys a few times yesterday while I dealt with taking the car in and out of being repaired. The boys being excited shared the news I'm a little older today. In fact Patrick was kind enough this morning to ask me what my number is! He probably won't remember though which is fine!

I took Patrick and Tommy to the mall. It was great to have them run around and look at a few stores we haven't been to in awhile. We also got an Auntie's Anne's treat because I had a coupon for a free pretzel! Birthday treats all around!

And now for the rest of the story

2011-03-10T13:00:00.002-05:00

So you remember how I said James has a door on his heart to let God and Jesus in? Well apparently that changed by the end of the day. First of all he was not at all thrilled when he was told he was going to mass for Ash Wednesday. Matt was holding his hand to get ashes and when it was there turn James let go and ran off. He was afraid to get ashes.

I also forgot to share another story from this week. I asked James about indoor recess on Tuesday and if he talked to some of his classmates. He said no we can only talk a little as the teacher has a video camera on us so we can't misbehave. John wasn't buying this and let James no he didn't believe she had a camera. James said she really does. I think it is in the closet!

The kids survived their first day of Lent and no Wii. We are asking they give it up only one day a week during Lent. Patrick used the time to catch up on some sleep as he didn't feel good. He has had a runny nose for almost a week. I sure enjoyed the peace and no fighting over who's turn it is and what game is being played.

We have had 5 snow days already this year and they are calling for more snow tonight and tomorrow. I really hope the school stay open so we can continue to look forward to our day off at the end of the month rather than have it a make up day!

Stories to warm your heart

2011-03-09T13:41:00.002-05:00

I haven't blogged in a long long time. So I have a few stories to share that I wanted to capture in my blog. Lucky for you it wasn't how I kept waking up with poor Tommy the other night when he had the stomach flu. Actually these are about James. That young man is growing leaps and bounds. It brings tears to my eyes how proud of him I am.

On Monday John came off the bus upset. This was unusual because it is usually James I'm trying to get into the house because it is always "woe is me". I forgot even though its not my responsibility, to put John's library books in his bag for Library Day. This means he was not allowed to take any books out. Apparently he was disappointed. So as we were doing homework I asked John if he cried. He said no. Then I asked James if he cried at school. He said "Yes 2 times!" He then went on to explain how he was frustrated with a Cat in the Hat project they needed to complete. I didn't laugh out loud but I was sure laughing at the inside because he always has something that is "too hard" or "it takes too long". Two excuses I can't wait to leave his vocabulary but I'm not sure will.

Then Tuesday when James came home I made the mistake of asking if anyone is sick. Since they can't tell me anything funny or sad that happened at school I want to see if he knows who the kids are in his class. He then proceeded to tell me how one kid got sick and was throwing up in the garbage can. James was nervous because the kid wears glasses and he was afraid they would fall in the garbage can. Of course he went on to exaggerate that the kid was standing at the garbage can for a half hour.

Its only Wednesday but this is the best story. We were talking about Lent and going to church today. James said that God and Jesus are in his heart but he was confused on how they got there. I said - we let them in. He said "how? Oh I know they go through the door". Then he kept repeating how he has a door on his heart. I hope he keeps them in his heart forever.

Ok this story is about Patrick. The boys always go to communion with us when we are at Mass. We first did this because we didn't feel comfortable leaving them alone to get into trouble. But then later we just took the little one's leaving James and John. When John started to prepare for 1st Communion the priest suggested the children accompany us so they will know what to expect and what to do when they receive Communion. So when I go to Communion I always receive the Body and Blood of Christ. Two weeks ago I had Patrick & Tommy with me. Before I received the Body of Christ Patrick held Tommy's hand so we could stay together. I think it is so cute when the little one's hold hands. Then just as I bowed to receive the Blood of Christ I caught Patrick out of the corner of my eye bowing just like I bow before I received the wine. As we walked back to the pew I saw a lot of smiling faces from the other parishioners that saw Patrick.

Well I'm starting to get excited for Tommy. I think the little guy is starting to want to try to be potty trained. We have had some good days and we have had some accidents. He definitely understands the benefits of going the bathroom on the potty. It is really helpful that James is encouraging him too. Two weeks ago when the boys had a snow day James and Patrick gave a demonstration that started in the living room and then I made them go into the bathroom on how to pee standing up. Then we saw a remote control car that Tommy said he wanted. James said it would make a great "pooping prize!" Love it!

I survived the holidays!

2011-01-05T12:08:00.002-05:00

I survived the baking, shopping, wrapping and a few kids and myself getting sick. We had a great Christmas. I think everyone was happy with their presents. James was reluctant about going back to school but when the time came he didn't put up much of a fuss. We are getting back into routine which is nice.

I have to laugh the kids TV station we normally watch is showing more commercials for Huggies Pull Ups. They have a catchy little tune called "The Potty Dance" When I say "Tommy this is your song" he says "No". I guess that is not his New Year's Resolution. I guess my New Year's Resolution to have my bra not be a handle bar is going to have to wait.

The new car

2010-11-15T12:38:00.003-05:00

So last week before Matt left for Las Vegas the check engine light went on in the Malibu. When I found out what the code was for the light we knew it was time to get a new car. So while Matt was in Vegas I checked the internet to find out what might be one of the best cars available with great gas mileage on the highway under $20,000. It turned out to be the Honda Civic. So Saturday after Matt confirmed my research he set out to make a deal on some new wheels.

In the meantime it was such a beautiful day I couldn't let it go to waste and decided it was a perfect day to put the Christmas lights on our front tree. I got out the big big steel ladder that I swear is going to kill me one day because it is so heavy to push it straight up. I finally got it near the top of the tree so I could start there. John and James were available to help out a little while Tommy and Patrick rested. When I got up there I was wondering how am I going to get the lights to go around to the sides without having to move the ladder 3 or 4 times. So I remembered that we have one of those grabber things with the suction cups at the end in the van so when on trips I can pass drinks and snacks to the back seat. John went & fetched that. In no time at all the top part was finished and it was time to put away the big ladder and get out the 6 foot step ladder. Around the tree the ground is not level so it is key to find a good spot to put the ladder. I still needed to go pretty high on the ladder. So when I was nervous about going to the next step I told John and James "Ok, here is the deal. John if I fall and my eyes aren't open go across the street and get the neighbor. Then I made the boys pray "Please do not let Mom fall". We successfully put the rest of the lights on without me falling. It turns out the tree grew and we needed some more lights on the bottom. I bought some a while ago at BJ's. It turns out they were size C6 and I needed C9. James proudly pointed out that if I turned the box upside down it makes a 9. If only I could do that with the lights.

Matt came home shortly after with a sporty looking Honda Civic LX. It is really nice and we now don't have to worry about him getting to and from work.

Yesterday at the kids religion class they talked about prayer. In James class when it was his turn to say what he prays for he said "that my mom does not fall off the ladder when putting up the Christmas lights". My friend who was in the class with her son said it was really sweet. I'm impressed he wasn't praying for Star Wars Legos!

The Business Trip

2010-11-09T13:18:00.003-05:00

So this week Matt is on a business trip to Las Vegas for work. Because his car's "check engine" light went on we decided that I would drive and pick him up from the airport. So yesterday afternoon Tommy, Patrick, Matt and I headed out to the airport. Patrick was complaining about the sun being in his eyes so we told him to go to sleep even though we know he hasn't been taking naps lately. We weren't even to the freeway and he was out and not much longer Tommy was out. We ran into some traffic which made us crawl for a bit but eventually got Matt to the airport in plenty of time. When we get to the airport Patrick wakes up for some reason and not far from home Tommy woke up too. Ok so if your doing math at home that is not a long nap for Patrick which is ok but even shorter for Tommy which could make things crazy later. I was most concerned about keeping them entertained so I could focus on homework with John and James. When we got home Tommy said "Where's Daddy?" Umm we just took him to the airport while you were sleeping?? When the boys got home from school we called Matt who was still waiting for his flight so the boys would have a chance to say goodnight. I guess that went well but our boys are not much talkers when it comes to the phone. We made it through the evening without too many more questions about where is Daddy.

So this morning the boys actually sleep in since this time change took effect. I was pleased. Then they come down and start asking "Where's Daddy?" me - in Las Vegas. Patrick in Downtown Cleveland? No Las Vegas. James - did he sleep in his car? Me no in a hotel. I then showed them on the weather map in the newspaper where Matt was compared to where we are.

When we return from picking Patrick up we pull the car in the garage. Matt's car is there. Patrick says "Daddy's Home" Nope Las Vegas. Remember we took him to the airport yesterday because his car is broke and he will probably get a new one this weekend? Patrick - he should get purple, Tommy - no black.

Sometimes I feel like I am in the movie Groundhog's Day.

Halloween Fun

2010-11-02T18:16:00.002-04:00

So as the week built up to Halloween the boys were excited but still a little nervous. I bought glow sticks so they wouldn't be afraid of the dark. I offered to take them for a walk so they could see our neighbors houses in the daylight. Costumes were ready. Finally Halloween arrived. It is 6:30am still pitch black out. Patrick is already requesting to go to the neighbors house across the street. I say sure, if they are home. He immediately opens our shutters and looks across the street for any light on. We come home from church. The questions begin - is it time yet?? no. After nap. Is it time yet? no we still need to eat. Finally it is 5:25pm and it is time to start to get layered up. We snap a few pictures in the front yard and the kids cooperated fairly well. They already ditched their masks so they could see ok. We went to the neighbors across the street before Trick or Treat began so we didn't have to try and cross with the extra Halloween traffic of imports coming from other cities. We come back after a nice visit and we light the glow sticks. The kids are running around the yard. Is it time yet? Tommy goes back inside claiming he is already cold. The wind was brutal. Finally it is time. We start at the house across from us. Then we go down the street one house with lights on at a time. When the kids were nervous we just skipped the house. Patrick had no fear on most houses and was first in line. Tommy was usually last and near the end the bag was so heavy that I was carrying it along with the masks. We made our way back up to our house. With bags full of goodies and cold hands. The boys are excited to see Matt again and to begin their duty of shouting out and inviting anyone and everyone to our house for candy. Patrick and Tommy immediately wanted to go in the house to warm up and start eating the candy. After I checked their bags they had a few pieces. It is tradition for the fire trucks / ambulance / or police cars to come around the neighborhood with candy for the kids. John and James announced that the fire truck was making its way down our street. I got Tommy and Patrick bundled up again and we waited on our tree lawn for the truck to come. Finally I realized it was our mayor and a fire fighter on the bumper of the truck with a sucker. The boys all got a good look at the truck and a sucker. The truck left and Tommy was very disappointed. He was crying and crying as he went into the house. Apparently he thought a ride came along with the candy. Sorry buddy that is not the case. We got in our jammies and watched Scared Shrekless for the 10th time in 24 hours and the boys were off to bed with sweet candy filled dreams. The highlight of my night was when John said "I never thought it would be so much fun!"

When it rains it pours

2010-10-14T14:12:00.004-04:00

The stomach flu has hit our house this week. It was one of those things where you hope it was just one child and maybe yourself out of sympathy and that was enough suffering. Turns out we were not so lucky. Yesterday after dinner, Tommy became the next victim and then later in the evening it was Patrick. Right now John and Matt are the lucky ones and hopefully with them not being around it as much as I have they will escape this nasty bug. Yesterday I was lucky enough to clean more of Tommy's room in preparation for my parents visit next Monday. When Patrick went down ill, I pulled down a cot mattress and made Tommy's room a medical ward that way I didn't have to keep running up and down the stairs if Patrick got sick again. Needless to say it was not a restful night for me. It was nice that we did not have to be anywhere so I could rest on the couch and then get up to take care of things here and there. I would like to think we are almost out of the woods but I'm not so sure. Tommy hasn't had much of an appetite and I think James' appetite is coming back.

Yesterday John came home from school with a big grin on his face. You would think he won the lottery or something. Turns out he did in a way as he lost another tooth. I'm so glad a few more are starting to drop because it front teeth are looking a little funny and they need the two next to them to grow in so they can be pushed closer together. I'm not sure if John is OCD or just very detail oriented. He made not to us this morning that the tooth fairy put the dollar bill in the top right corner and not in the center like normal. Also the dollar was folded differently than before. I told him it must have been a substitute. I'm also thinking this under the pillow thing is for the birds and he should leave his tooth out on the kitchen table so we don't have to worry about such details.