I love you, mom!

On Christmas eve, I was sure I heard the princess tell my dad, "I love you, papaw" when we ran into him at the clc.  I had never heard her say that without being prompted for each word or phrase.  Tonight she told the three of us, one by one, that she loved us.  Each i love you was followed by our name.  She said this over and over.  I loved it!

Princess is talking more and more.  My favorite opinionated comment that she makes comes after I tell her that we are getting ready to go nye nye (I.e. nap).  She now says, "I no go nye nye.". I also hear her say, "I do it," often.

Princess loves to sing in the car.  She will tell a person when it is his/her turn to sing the song.  She loves to sing twinkle twinkle little star, the itsy bitsy spider, the farmer and the dell, deep and wide, Rudolph, etc.

We have been doing some errands in the last 2 days.  It was good to get out of the house after the blizzard.  Last night I went to an orange leaf for the first with my friends jj and Carey.

Christmas

Sunday afternoon was exciting when my in laws passed out Christmas gifts.  We all went to famous Dave's for a scrumptuos dinner followed by a Culvers frozen yogurt treat.

Christmas eve morning was spent at the clc.  My plan was to get out all our wiggles.  We were there for about two and a half hours.  Boys played a lot of basketball and wii football.  Princess climbed bleachers.  Champ and I made a birthday cake for Jesus that we ate on Christmas day.  We went to the Christmas eve service at church.  It was so crowded that we had to sit in the overflow area in the chapel and the children's pastor was volunteering his help in princess's room.  We checked out some Christmas lights before watching a veggie tales Christmas movie.

Champ was up by 6:02 on Christmas day, a mere 2 minutes past when I predicted.  I stalled him by having him watch a veggie tales movie.  I woke princess up at 7, in hopes she would have time to go down for a nap before celebrating at my parents house.  We ate egg casserole, fruit salad, zucchini bread, and birthday cake for breakfast.  We also read the Christmas story in the Bible.  As we begun opening presents, it was clear that princess was opening her presents too slowly in champs opinion.  We told champ that princess got to open all her own presents.  You could see that champ was clearly being tortured as princess slowly dug into each gift.  Princess also opened a present (like a book) and wanted to read it.  Champ wanted to instead open each present immediately.   Even though it was on no ones Christmas list, the popular present for both kids was champs hot wheels set.  I had suspected it would be a hit since both kids like the hot wheels exhibit at the children's museum. Kids were also excited about getting sleeping bags.

After an hour of listening to princess not sleeping in her crib, I gave up.  She was too excited to sleep.  We went to my mom's house at 3.  Champ was proudly wearing his new batman sweatshirt....it comes complete with a mask that you can pull down over your eyes.  Princess was wearing her new butterfly shirt.  We opened wonderful presents at 4.  It was a whole lot of people doing things in fast motion.  There was a delicious meal that I'm sure took my mom hours to prepare.  The boy cousins watched a lot of movies together.  The girl cousins were adorable as they played together.  They enjoyed both the rocking horse and rocking chair.  There were plenty of yummy desserts to munch on during the evening. 

When we got home, I let my kids open any boxes they got at my mom's house.  They couldn't open the boxes at my mom's house because I didn't want them to loose any pieces.  We played more at home before going to sleep.

Yesterday we woke up to lots and lots of snow.  It continued to snow heavily after 8.  This time the weatherman got it right...it was a blizzard.  We were thankful that we didn't feel we had anywhere we had to be yesterday.  We stayed home and enjoyed our toys.  The kids are pretty cute together when they are playing well together.  In the afternoon, Daddy went out to shovel the driveway.  Champ came out to help him some.  Daddy spent at least 2 hours working on our driveway.  Hopefully today they can make a snowman and sled.

My precious family

december 15...forgot to hit post
We had our usuals this week...swim team and basketball.  Champ is starting to get his arms out of the water more.  That is speeding him up some.  If he wasn't so concerned about checking out the competition, he would be even faster.  Princess loves the snacks that I bring.  She also loves wandering around and climbing stairs.  If she had her way, she would jump down more stairs.

While the boys were at basketball practice, princess and I payed with Mickey and Minnie.  We pretended they were being naughty and kept putting them in time out.  It was lots of fun.

Princess had her two year wellness appointment today.  Daddy says the doctor thought she looked great.  She is in the ninety fifth percentile for head circumference, the ninety to ninety fifth percentile for height, and ninety fifth percentile for weight.

Tonight has been movie night.  We watched  a Frosty movie and a Rudolph movie tonight while feasting on popcorn.  I like that champ has been asking random classmates to come to our movie night.  I tried to tell him that usually the parents would talk to each other first.

Bring on Christmas

Swim team finished Wednesday.  Champ has really improved since this summer.  He started his summer swim lessons screaming that he was drowning.  We did 3 rounds of swim lessons, but I felt myself still praying that he wouldn't die during the first night of swim team.  Now he swims more confidentally, Gets his arms out of the water more, and stops less when swimming the length of the pool.

The basketball team has played three games.  I think champ has scored one basket, but his defense in the last game was pretty good.  Princess finally went to a practice and enjoyed playing with 2 slightly older girls.

We have been on break since thursday.  The kids and I went to the museum on Thursday.  Princess loves the carousel.  She doesn't leave the black horse named Pete on her own free will.  She likes the jolly days two story slide, but she hates that she has to go on it with me.  Both kids love the hot wheels exhibit.  We played in the jolly days exhibit before waiting to get our picture with Santa.

Friday morning we spent quality time at the clc.  Champ was counting his basketball shots.  He made over 100 on the lower basket.  Princess had some fun playing with balls, being chased, and climbing the bleachers.  We were excited that dad came home earlier and now has more than a week off.

Saturday morning was spent at the clc again.  It was nice to have daddy join us.  The boys met daddy's parents when they arrived in town.  The foursome went to the butler game while princess napped and then accompanied me to the grocery store.  As soon as the basketball group arrived, I headed out shopping.

I was busy shopping again by 6 AM.  The gang went to church at 9.  I was set to help in the nursery for the second hour, but I was relieved of my duty when few kids showed up.  I went shopping again after church, and I think I am almost done with my Christmas shopping.  We cheered the colts on to a victory over the chiefs.  However, we were a divided household considering my in laws root for the chiefs.

Count down to Christmas

It is on...the count down to Christmas.  Mom has been busy shopping in my not so spare time.

Monday and Wednesday were swim team.  Princess and I went to the doctor instead on Monday.  She was having a negative consequence with the medicine she had been on.  We are better and back on track now.

Champ still loves swim team.  I don't sit there as fearful that he will drowned.  He is improving.  As soon as he gets his arms out of the water consistently, he will do even better.

I went to a pto meeting at champs school Monday.

Champ went to basketball practice on tuesday.  Wednesday mornings i go with champ to a little of hi bible club meetings.  They are held at his school.  Thursday nights go on forever because we have no commitments that evening.

Donughts with dad was Friday morning at champs school.  The boys enjoyed this special time together.  Daddy took his turn shopping Friday evening.

Saturday was champs second basketball game.  They won.  He scored one basket.  He made one terrific cut to the basket, and he was wide open.  However, no one passed him the ball.

I got a haircut, and then my friend Bekah and I went to visit our friend Susan.  The three of us work together, and Susan is recovering from surgery.  We brought her dinner, talked, and laughed.

We went to our church's Christmas service.  Princess went to class, but champ stayed with us.   We drove around looking at Christmas lights.  I love to do that, everyone else endures it.

This morning we drove to the north side.   We went to breakfast at the Williams house with our old Sunday school class.  We went to our old church for their Christmas service.  Champ went to Sunday school, and Princess stayed with us.  She did Well for her age.  We went to lunch at Applebee's with Lori, mandy, and her friend Andy.  We had a great time.

Princess is busy singing frosty and twinkle twinkle little star.   She wants to do everything her self.  I love when she and champ chase each other around the house.

Finishing the week

Champ complained of feeling ill Wednesday morning, but I forced him on to school.  He was apparently crying at bible club that he wanted to throw up, but he couldn't.  He seemed  to survive the day, and he was able to happily participate on the swim team.

On thursday night, we don't have any activity.  The evening seems to go on forever.

We celebrated a good citizenship week at school by going to chick fil a.  The owner gave champ some free ice cream when we told him champ chose this restaurant for his celebration.  we also ran into the rich family there.

Today was champs first game on his new basketball team.  Champ took lots of shots, but none of them fell in.  His team lost.  Princess was a great fan.  You can tell she loves her brother very much.

Champ was the only boy with six girls at a roller skating birthday party.  It was his first time roller skating.  We tightened his wheels twice to make the skating easier.  He fell MANY times, but he also got cocky and tried to imitate people around him who were doing things like jumping.  I enjoyed meeting and socializing with other moms.  Princess napped at home with daddy.

We had a second birthday party at dinner time.  This time the whole family went to the worgess house for aidens birthday party.  The Toth family was also there.  Champ and the older kids dressed in super hero costumes.  We got princess in a Minnie mouse costume for a little bit.  However, she also was very comfortable putting on a spiderman costume and trying on multiple pairs of shoes.

Battered family

Daddy stayed home from work yesterday because he was still feeling ill.  We took princess to my work clinic, and we were told she has another ear infection.  In addition to the semi Black eye from church, champ cut his toe at swim team practice last night.

Champ started throwing up this morning at 5.  I was at school making sub plans by 5:30.  I kept both kids home and was a cleaning machine.

Princess turns two

Saturday afternoon we went to a u Indy basketball game with my parents.  They were hurting for fans, so I am sure that they loved having us there.  Champ seemed to be interested in the game.  It was probably his first time witnessing a team score 100 points.  My parents stopped by our house afterwards to give princess a Minnie mouse birthday balloon.

Sunday morning we gave princess a beautiful sweater dress that I had found at toys r us on black Friday for a great price.  I also served her favorite pancakes and (more importantly) syrup on her new minnie mouse placemat.

Since daddy was sick, he didn't join us at church.  After church, champ collided with another boy at the indoor playground.  He instantly had the area over his eye swelling and turning blue.  So, we learned where the first aid supplies are kept at the church.

We traveled to culvers for lunch.  I noted that princess did not seem to eat much, and I had even gotten her unhealthy foods.  The cashier was kind enough to give the kids free ice cream in honor of the birthday girl.

Princess took a poor nap.  I tried to get ready for the Mickey mouse birthday party.  We had invited the riches, toths, and worgesses.

The following sign greeted our guests:  it's the Mickey mouse clubhouse, come inside, it's fun inside. Guests devoured hot dogs, scalloped potatoes, bananas, and Mickey mouse cupcakes.  The kids tore the place up in a matter of minutes, but they had fun.  Princess got the books silverlicious and fancy nancy and the mermaid ballet.  Princess also got a large Minnie mouse doll.  For party favors, each kid received a ziplock bag with animal crackers and mini Oreos.  On the bag, I attached either had drawn Mickey mouse ears or the number two.

Thanksgiving week

Sunday was our usual church and grocery shopping day.  It was a sad sports weekend with k state and the colts loosing big.

Monday and Wednesday were swim team.  Champ loves it.  Princess loves to enjoy the snacks I bring and climbing the bleachers.

Tuesday was the annual thanksgiving feast at my friend Carey's house.  Carey has been hosting the event for nine years on the Tuesday before thanksgiving.  (I put it on my calendar before I get the invite.)  the boys had to leave early to go to basketball practice.  The girls enjoyed extended time eating the feast and socializing.  Princess was terrified of the dog.  She liked the dog from afar, but she panicked when it came close.

Thursday was a warm thanksgiving.  After watching most of the parade, it was warm enough for us to be able to take a walk to the school's playground.  Kids got to get out some of their wiggles.  when princess napped, I took an hour walk.  Then the boys took a walk.  On their walk, the boys found princess's shoes.  She had apparently tossed them out of the stroller on the way home from the park, and no one had noticed.

For dinner, we went to my sister's house.  Attending the event were my sister and her family, her in-laws, my brother and his family, my parents, and us.  I think it is the only holiday that I can remember in which my grandma wasn't in attendance.  (she was apparently celebrating with her husband's family.). Dinner was delicious.  I think my favorite part was a sweet potato casserole made by my sister's mother-in-law.  Yum!  Yum!  Uncle Matt tried his hardest to get princess to warm up to Doodle, their precious dog that they had brought.  Princess though just tensed up every time the
dog came near.  My mom eventually got princess to pet the dog.  Princess played very nicely with both Caroline and will at different points in the evening.  She also liked to snuggle with my parents.  Champ played well with the older boys.  

Since princess was born on a thanksgiving, I think her birthday will always be combined with thanksgiving.  My mom stuck a candle in the delicious carrot cake cupcakes that she brought.  We sang happy birthday to princess.  Aunt heather got her very cute owl pajamas.  Aunt Becky got her a Minnie mouse doll and bath toys with Disney characters.  I love her age.  When people put the gifts in front of her, she didn't know what they were for.  She just eating her cupcake.

Friday seemed like the perfect day to join in the chaos at the children's museum.  We watched Santa 
drive up in an Indy car.  Hot wheels opened early.  We enjoyed that exhibit an hour before the museum opened without large crowds while the crowds did the Santa activities.  Champ was excited about the 2 story holiday slide.  Princess endured it from my lap as we raced down together.  Since I waited about 30 minutes in line for the slide, we only did it once.  Princess liked the slide in mr. Bear's playhouse.  She also liked watching the trains pass.  The carousel was a big hit for princess again.  Champ loves hot wheels.  

I shopped some while princess napped.

Last night we went to the worgess house for dinner and the k state/Michigan game.   Thankfully, we all still friends despite the fact that they are Michigan fans and Michigan won.  Champ also liked the latest Alvin and the chipmunks movie.  As for the adults, that is an hour and a half of our lives we can not get back.

The week before thanksgiving

Sunday was our usual church day.  I also have been taking the champ out running on Sunday afternoons.  He can last for about a half mile.

Monday and Wednesday were swimming days for the champ at the high school.  On Wednesday, daddy and I started to talk about how much the champ has improved since joining the swim team.

We hustled to the west side on Tuesday to inspect a bedroom set on sale for princess.  We are getting it delivered soon, but we will not transition her out of the crib for awhile.  We had a fast dinner at Wendy's, and then the boys were off to basketball practice.

Thursday night is a pleasant treat...nothing in the evening.

Friday we treated ourselves to a bob Evans dinner.  The kids loved having pancakes for dinner.  I enjoyed not having to prepare a meal.  We picked up a cookie and an apple oat bar to go.  The apple oat bar was extremely delicious, but it was extremely rich.  My stomach hurt the rest of the evening.  Yet, I was still able to beat my hubby in a game of words with friends, which doesn't happen much.

Today, I began with grading papers and a trip to the gym.  We were at our high school by 9:20, just in time for princess, champ, and i to see my nephew (Connor) swim in a swim meet.  Then I took the kids to near the high school's gym where the champ met daddy and the rest of the basketball team.  There was a whole lot of energy and too much time waiting to get their team photo.  while the team was getting their photo taken, princess and I headed back to the pool.  We were just in time again to see Connor compete in his next race.  Princess enjoyed snuggling with her grandparents during both pool visits.  Princess and I headed back to the gymnasium.  All teams (first through varsity) got some
time on the court.  Champ had fifteen minutes to scrimmage against another team.  Princess enjoyed her third breakfast at the concession stands.  My sister and two nephews tried to make it over from the swim meet, but they were a few minutes too late.  When we were walking out to the car, we noted how mild the weather felt.  So, we made a quick decision to head to brown county.  

Before we left, we went home for lunch.  Princess didn't get the memo that she was supposed to fall asleep on the ride there.  We went to the nature center first.  The coolest part was when the rattlesnake was very active and moving all around his enclosed space.  Champ saw a sign for a hike to a lake.  So, we hiked down to the lake.  Princess was a kranky hiker.  Daddy carried her a lot.  She did great any time there were steps though.  Champ and I even walked around the lake, while daddy watched princess jump in leaves over and over.  Champ found out the hard way that if we walked down to the lake, we had to walk up to get back to the car.  We played at a playground for awhile, but we determined it was too cold in the shaded playground.  We walked around the lodge next.  Princess finally fell asleep on the drive to Bloomington.  We ate at a pizza place and then grabbed ice cream at jiffy treat.  We gave the champ a short driving tour.  Now we are home and praying for k state to win.

Saturday

I was up before everyone else this morning, like usual.  I had graded papers for an hour and headed to the gym without seeing anyone else up in the family.  I did a pattern of walking and jogging for my workout.

The boys went to the clc to play wii.  I got to stay home and read many books to my princess.

Champ and I went to Meijer to get a birthday gift for one of his classmates.  He chose Barbie books for her.  Then we headed to chuckie cheese for the party.  I stayed for about forty-five minutes, until hubby relieved me.  Champ and I stink at hunting video games....I could have predicted that.  He was good at a car racing video game....leading me to believe he could be dangerous at sixteen.  He also did well at ski ball.  They were sitting down to pizza and cake when I left.

I got to enjoy being pampered with a new haircut at my favorite place.  Darcy cuts my hair, and she is fun to talk to while she problem solves my hair.

We ate dinner at home, and we played some outside.  We headed out to a few grocery stores to buy a Thanksgiving meal for a family in need, an initiative started by our church.

Now we are just hoping k state wins.

Friday

Princess is still ill.  Daddy came home late last night, and he got to spend the day with her today.  She didn't like his breakfast choice, and she threw it up.  She didn't eat much today, but I got some oatmeal to stay down in her tonight.

Champ got lots of papers back today with good grades.  He has enjoyed the benefits of one of his parents staying home the last two days.  In the mornings, we have driven him to school.  Both days we have let him ride home on the bus.

Her name

Princess said her name perfectly tonight a few times when I asked.  In the past, she has
Just gotten the ending right.

The joys of motherhood

Tuesday evening was a late basketball practice for the champ.  Daddy is coaching.  Princess and I stayed home.

Yesterday was another swim team practice.  Princess insisted on bringing her swimsuit to day care, just in case she got to swim.  Champ seems to love swim team practice. Princess loved exploring all the seating areas and trying to jump into the pool.  At one point, she took off her shoes, socks, pants, and sweatshirt.  Shirt and diaper were too hard to get off.  I asked her why she took her clothes off, she said because she wanted to swim in the pool.

Daddy was gone last night.  I was eagerly ready to get in bed when I heard princess start crying.  Because my back hurts so much, I tried to wait her out a little in hopes that she would go back to sleep.  I went into her room with a sippy cup of water.  As I handed it to her, I noticed a stench in the room.  I threw the lights on only to have my suspicions confirmed....she had thrown up...on her sleep sack, blanket, crib sheet, crib slats, floor, etc.  I took her out of the crib, and I tried to think of where to begin.  As I am running frantically around the house trying to clean up, she is throwing up everywhere.  There was vomit in her bedroom, the front bathroom, the hall, the laundry room, and my bedroom.  I couldn't put her back in the crib like this.  I put her on a blanket on the floor by my bed.  She wouldn't sleep, and she continued to throw up.  I rocked her to sleep in a gliding chair, but she woke up instantly when I put her down.  I finally got her to sleep in bed with me, but she woke up throwing up throughout the night.  Today she has not thrown up, but she has had diarrhea instead.  Pediatricians nurse said this was probably all still the result of a cold.  I am thankful for events that force me to remember that daddy and I make a good team.  I am also thankful for a day away from the stress of school.

A whole new world

The pediatrician recommended a rear facing car seat until a child is 2 years old.  We caved early, and we had the fire station help us flip the seat around.  It was a whole new world for princess as we drove home.  She was shouting everything she saw.

It was a fun end to a busy day.  My mom has been so kind to help me with the kids on many mornings since I injured my back and was told not to lift anything heavy, including princess.  While we were trying to wake up princess this morning, we kept hearing siren after siren.  After daddy finished his hour long vote, he called to say there were many fire trucks near our day care, but he was not sure which business the trucks were there for.  I call the day care.  No answer.  A few minutes later I got a call from a number I didn't recognize.  It was an assistant director saying there was a small fire and they weren't accepting more kids for the morning or until further notice.  My mom offered to take care of princess at our house.  Once I arrived at work, we got an email saying that we could bring kids now.  I asked the assistant principal if I could go get princess.  I relieved mom of her duties with princess and took princess to day care.  There was definitely a funny smell there, but there were firman inspecting things still.  I am thankful that my kids weren't there.  I am thankful that my kids would have been in good hands had they been there.  I am thankful for the nearby businesses that provided a warm, safe shelter for those that were evacuated today.

It took my whole prep this morning to vote.  Lots of time to make new friends.  I am hoping for some big changes.

Super Saturday

Daddy started the morning off right by making pumpkin pancakes, one of our new  favorite breakfasts.  Daddy was at basketball training all morning while the kids and I hung out.

Champ and I went to dicks sporting good store.  He loved it.  Then we met the rest of the family at Kroger.

We had tilapia for dinner.  Champ loves tilapia.

Champ and I went to the butler Vs. u Indy game.  Our seats were in row EE.  Champ was really into cheering for butler.  At half time, we managed to get a seat on the second and first row, beside my parents.  The game was very exciting.  Champ did a great job of behaving on the front row.  He really studied the game.

Halloween week

Champ started swim team this week.  We are excited about the opportunity to improve on a skill that could save his life.  it wears him out though.  Princess is in to climbing the bleachers, trying to jump into the pool, trying to climb the diving board ladder, steal things from others, etc.

He also had evaluations for the basketball team.  It was a nail biter, but his dad chose him to be on his team.  Princess had fun climbing bleachers, flushing toilets, and getting drinks from the drinking fountain.

On Halloween, we drove to my parent's house to show them our costumes.  Champ was dressed as superman, while princess was a natural fit in a princess costume.  The kids also trick or treated around the neighborhood with daddy and the Rich kids.  I stayed home and passed out candy.

Fall Break

Since daddy was busy with work, the kids and I had our own fun on fall break.  We stayed at daddy's hotel for 3 nights...enjoying the luxuries the company bought that daddy didn't have time to use..  We ate at Moes on the way to the hotel.  Champ was super excited about staying in the city.  We swam at the hotel once we arrived.  Princess kept saying, "I swim in the pool."

On Thursday, our hotel toilet clogged.  I mentioned it to the front desk on our way to a Starbucks breakfast.  He asked me if we were going to the hotel grill.  I said no, and I asked him if it was any good.  He offered to let us try it as his treat.  So, we had an elegant buffet using fine china.  That was an adventure with 2 kids.  At one point, princess wandered away from me as we returned from the buffet.  It scared me to death.  We went to the pool again.  Then we went to eagle creek and enjoyed their playground and nature center.  Next, we grabbed lunch at chick fil a.  My sweet friend Lori met us downtown.  We had a picnic lunch downtown with her.  Then we enjoyed chatting.

On Friday, we went to breakfast at Starbucks.  It was incredibly busy.  I was grateful that the kids could watch some shows on the iPad while they waited.  Next we went to the children's museum.  I ran into 4 families I knew from our old church, despite the fact that there were tons of people there.  We also ran into my sister and two of her boys.  We ate lunch with them, and we went to two exhibits with them.  Princess loved sitting on a stationary motorcycle.  She loved playing hot wheels, and she was drawn to the carousel.  She was so excited about riding a horse.  She did pretty well with sharing.  Champ was really into the art stations at the hot wheels and dinosaur exhibits.  We went trick or treating at the library.  Champ dressed as superman, and princess refused to put on her princess costume.  We ate dinner at our favorite taco place.  We finished the evening at the pool.  Princess protests getting dressed for everything except the pool.

Today i brought a steak n shake breakfast back for the gang.  we went swimming before we checked out of the pool.  Then we went back to the children's museum to see some things we didn't get to yesterday.

My birthday week

Friday was my birthday.  I started the day with a cardio kick boxing class.  My mom came in at the end to say happy birthday before she exercised.  Princess got up extra early for my birthday and screamed in joy for awhile.  Champ made me a birthday card.  I loved playing hangman with "happy brfday" being the word to guess.  My parents came to eat lunch with my co workers and I.  They brought mccalisters.  I got a gift card from my class at the start of our fall party.  One parent brought me a milkshake and an apple pie.  My family dined at our favorite local diner.  Champ went to game night at church, while hubby and I loved on princess.

Saturday morning I got up and ran for 70 minutes. Hubby made the best pumpkin pancakes for breakfast...I am sneaking in healthy food whenever possible. We went to visit my grandma and her new husband.  It was the first time everyone (except for me) met him.  Princess clung to me till some toys were brought out.  Then she kept asking Gus to lift her up.  It was cute.  Kids sat down and colored for awhile.  Princess kept getting up to show her picture to each grown up in the room.  Boys went to play wii at the clc. My parents babysat the kids in the evening.  Hubby and I went to cheesecake factory for dinner.  We loved the avocado egg rolls, turkey burgers, and ultimate red velvet cake.  Then we went to the outlet store to buy some presents for me.

Today we enjoyed church before girls went grocery shopping while boys got haircuts.  Boys took champs good report card to incredible pizza company and baskin Robbins.  Both gave him treats for good grades.  We went to the school playground with the rich family this evening.

The weekend in review

On Saturday morning, Kelly and I ran in a race benefitting the local children's hospital.  It was run by middle school students, so it ended up being a cross country race and a little less than a 5k.  Boys played wii at the clc, a favorite treat.  We got a babysitter for the evening.  Once princess warmed up to the idea of a babysitter, both kids loved her.  Daddy and I went to Morton's to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their first date.  I always love their food.  We also walked a little around downtown too.

On Sunday, we were all in church or Sunday school.  We went grocery shopping.  Princess napped while boys watched the NFL football game.  Unfortunately, I went to school and worked on grades since they were supposedly due the next day.  (I learned Monday that the grades deadline got postponed.)  We did some errands in the evening.

Last night was a great night after school.  It was still warm enough to play outside.  Princess sat on my lap for a long time and let me read to her.

Today it was warm enough to play outside after school too.  We took a long walk with princess in the stroller.  Boys played football outside while I read to princess.  Champ and I have worked a lot on homework, especially his spider report, which is due Friday.

Little Miss Independent

Princess and I are at war each morning.  I want her to wear clothes, and she has no interest in it.  In addition, she has decided pants in general are unnecessary.  I took the two kids to mccalisters last night.  Princess took off her pants while standing in her seat. I put on her pants, she took them off, I put them on, and the pattern continued for awhile before I gave up.  Some people got a good laugh out of us walking to the car with her pants down at her ankles.  When we aren't having a battle over clothes, we are battling over teeth getting brushed.

In other news, I helped in champs sunday school room last sunday.  I had my last round of conferences this week.  Daddy went to the dad's club meeting at champs school.  Boys played wii at the clc this morning.  I ran in an almost 5K at the nearby middle school today.  The course was through the grass and hills, so it was harder than I had anticipated.

Super sundayOctober

I helped in the champs class at church this morning.  I even got on stage during large group instruction to help lead the songs.  The pastor asked anyone with an October birthday to lead the songs.  Champ was insistent on me being up there.  We played on the playground there as usual.

Meijer is always an adventure with the family.  I love when everyone helps unload the car.  Even the little one can grab a bag of cheese to move from the car to counter.

We finished off the lasagna leftovers from moms birthday.  I made 2 recipes from pinterest:  upside down pumpkin pie and some kind of pumpkin coffeee cake.  Pie turned out ok, but the pumpkin coffeee cake is delicious.

While baby slept, the rest of us enjoyed the colts come from behind to beat the packers.  I tried to do a little running with the champ.  Although he complained early and often, I got him to run for 9 minutes.  Unfortunately, he tripped and fell on the run...making the experience worse.  I told him it doesn't matter how many times you fall down, but how many times you get up.  I ran, and then champ and I walked some.

Daddy and champ carved their pumpkin tonight.

Busy week

The week began with me enduring a teacher evaluation committee meeting.  I came home for dinner, but i quickly left again for a PTO meeting at champs school.  Tuesday I had the champs parent teacher conference after school. He is doing great, but he is very anxious.  We babysat for the worgess boys in the evening.  Wednesday evening was packed with parent teacher conferences for me.  Thursday night hubbys county leadership group had a get together at a local farm.  We cooked our own hot dogs, climbed hay bales, played in corn kernels, and more.  Last night we celebrated my moms birthday at her house.  Grandsons watched a movie, and granddaughters played relatively well together.  Today we went to the library.  Princess remembered the park next door and started to leave the library on her own.  We got the kids new pants from jcp.  Boys went to clc to play wii, but it was taken.  I was pampered with a new cut and color.  Then we had dinner and bonding time at the worgess house, despite big Caleb and Abby being at a football game.

Princess put her own socks on for the first time Thursday.  They were inside out, but I will count it.

Fall

Last weekend we spent a lovely evening at the Toth house celebrating Ben's birthday.  They always throw a good party.  Boys also went to the homecoming football game.  Champ loved it!

Champ finished up swim lessons this week. This time he qualified to make the swim team.  He was so excited.

On the other hand, yesterday the kids were less than thrilled about getting flu shots.  Champ did his best job ever...he was working on a game on the iPad instead of freaking out.  Princess did not fair as well....she would not stop crying afterwards.  Plus, she had a fever by evening time.

Yesterday we went to a local apple orchard.  Princess was too busy crying and being clingy to enjoy herself.  However, Champ loved the pony ride, train ride, maze, slide, hiking, etc.  We brought a picnic lunch to eat by the pond.  Princess loosened up and had fun on the wagon ride to the pumpkin patch with the rest of the family.  We picked out an eight pound pumpkin.

Daddy also took Champ to Chuckie Cheese to celebrate good behavior at school.  Boys played lots of games together.

Updates

The Champ's new school is going great.  He is very successful there.  Princess seems to be doing well at her new day care.  Both kids are very happy when I pick them up at the end of the day.  We are glad that we switched.

We took a trip to Kansas recently.  We pulled the Champ out of school for two days, and we took off 2 days from work ourselves.  First, we drove to St. Louis.  We spent the night in the Ramada Plaza.  In the morning, we enjoyed a breakfast in the hotel.  Then we visited the science center.  We drove to Independence, Kansas.  We woke up on Saturday and had breakfast in the motel.  The kids enjoyed the pool.  We ate lunch at a local pizza place with hubby's parents, sister, and brother-in-law.  The swimming wore out Princess so much that she slept through Tina's wedding, which was probably a good thing.  There was a cake and punch reception at the church following the wedding.  We went back to the motel to change into casual clothes.  Then we traveled to the park for the casual reception.  There were dollar putt putt games that the boys enjoyed.  The girls got a head start to the free zoo.  Everyone enjoyed quarter train rides.  There was tons of play equipment to explore.  We ate a wonderful bbq dinner too.  On Sunday, we traveled to Kansas City to go to the Children's Museum.  The museum was nothing compared to the one we usually go to, but the kids had a great time.  We continued our journey by going to Jefferson City, MO.  We stayed with daddy's old roommate.  On Monday, we headed to St. Louis, where we enjoyed the zoo.  There was so much to do there.  The kids loved seeing the animals.  Champ is at the point where he liked having me go over the information on the sign about each animal with him.  We spent the night in Illinois.  We ate breakfast in the motel and the kids enjoyed the pool.  Then it was time to travel home and tackle the mountain of laundry.

Champ tried out for a swim team.  He didn't make it, but he now has it as a goal as he starts swim lessons this upcoming week.

Foul OUt

The highlight of the Champ's tournament game today was when he was playing catcher and caught the batter's foul ball to get him out.  Very impressive for a 6 year old.  The opposing team's coach got off the mound to give our son a high five.  Champ's coach said it was the play of the game.  He told our team that the Champ had talent, but he was also paying attention.

The Olympics began last night.  Champ and I made Olympic ring decorations.  He aslo made an American flag to hang up.  We made an applesauce cake with cream cheese frosting and turned it into an American flag.  We put 50 marshmallows in the corner as stars.  We used blueberries for the blue background around the stars.  We used red sprinkles to make stripes.  Now...don't tell this to the Champ, but I was teaching him about our country's history as we made the cake.  You probably shouldn't mention to him either that I am secretly teaching him Social Studies and math during the Olympics.  We have downloaded some apps to the iPad to help us learn.  Today we were using Google earth to figure out where the countries are located that are in the competition.

Daddy and I missed the opening ceremonies of the Olympics last night because we were celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary.  We went to dinner at Shula's and then did some unsuccessful shopping.  The kids enjoyed their time with the babysitter. 

Our Prayer

This is the new way that we are getting Princess involved in prayers:
Champ:  Dear God, Thank you for sheep
Princess:  Baa
C:  Thank you for cows
P:  Moo
C:  Thank you for ducks
P:  Quack
C:  Thank you for horses
P:  neigh
and on and on the prayer goes till
C:  Amen
P:  Amen

Princess started climbing a climbing apparatus today at the school's playground.  She got about halfway up.  We are going to really have to watch her.  She is always trying to climb.

Surviving Summer

This has been a low key week around the house.  One thing I did try was putting in a video that I thought Princess might like.  We've had the TV on before while she has been in the room, but nothing has interested her.  Well, that changed this week.  She loves Champ's old Bible video....He will watch it with her now though.  That gives me a little break.  However, I may have created a monster between showing her that video and showing her how to do an app on the iPad.

My sweet friend Mandy came over Friday afternoon.  It was good to catch up.  She is so sweet to love on my kids too.  We went to dinner at Ruby Tuesday.

Saturday evening we headed to the Worgess house with the Toth family.  We love when Caleb uses the smoker, especially if it is to make us dinner.  Everyone has someone to play with there.  Princess has started saying, "Abby."  Once she warmed up to the setting, she showed off her new word as we tried to show her who Abby was.

Today was church.  Daddy brought home fish from Target that we threw in the oven.  After Princess's nap, we went downtown to take a leisurely walk on the canal.  As we were heading home, we stopped at Steak N Shake for dinner.  Next, our group shopped at Kroger.  Princess threw a jelly container out of the cart, and it shattered.  Oops!  Since it was a lot cooler when we got home, we read our books tonight outside.

July 7

Last Saturday we topped off the day with my cousin's wedding.  There was a beautiful ceremony in Richmond that Champ and I enjoyed up close.  Daddy and Princess enjoyed the ceremony from afar in the cry room.  Princess loved that everyone blew bubbles as the bride and groom left the church.  The reception was at the bride's family's residence.  It was in a very nice barn.  My parents liked taking turns caring for the kids at the reception.  Princess also really enjoyed spending time again with my dad's cousin, Keith.  Daddy loved the delicious pork chops for dinner, while Champ loved the cake so much that he ate crumbs off his shoes.

I have been helping in Champ's Sunday School room over the summer, so that is what I did again on Sunday.  Then we were off to more of his baseball tournament.  We played a crazy team, and they demolished us.  The other team was chattering while our players were up to bat, plus they are in tournaments every weekend.  I think some people may have lost site of the fact that baseball is supposed to be fun and the kids' ages.  Champ struck out twice, and he was bummed.  I was excited that we were creamed quickly and got to get out of the heat.

This week the kids and I did story time at the library.  They also went to child care a couple times while I exercised. 

My in laws came to visit on Thursday night through Saturday morning.  We spent quality time around the house together.  Plus, Champ took Daddy and my mother in law to Super Hero day at the library.  We also went bowling on Friday night.  The kids were especially grateful to have extra attention and surprises.

This morning we went to play basketball at the CLC.  Princess was cracking me up.  She desperately wanted to dribble the ball, but couldn't get the hang of it.  The ball would roll across the floor while she would bounce her arm up and down.  She couldn't seem to understand why it wasn't working for her.

Princess seems to be saying "my turn" a lot.  Ironically, she is at the point where no one else really gets a turn.  She just wants you to know that it is her turn...perhaps permanently.

I have been busy organizing and cleaning this summer.  I think the inside of the house looks good.  I'm trying to teach the kids to help me keep it that way.

Ground Rule Double, Somersaults

Champ is in a baseball tournament this weekend.  It is 3 outs and the team is in the outfield, not everyone bats once.  He made a ground rule double in last night's game.  The ball bounced once in the outfield, jumped over the fence, and rolled through the woods to the creek.  That was the highlight for us of the game! 

His sister was trying to learn how to cooperate and share with others, rather than watch the game.  She took the shoes from a 21 month old child.  When the girl tried to get the shoes back, Princess puts another group of words together in a scream, "My shoes."  She was incorrect, but we are excited about her language skills building!

Today princess is doing somersaults...perhaps something she learned from watching all the cheerleaders into todays parade?

This week we went to libraries for story times, crafts, exchanging books, and summer reading prizes.  Champ improved more with another round of swim lessons.  We went to my co-workers pool one day.  We went on an early morning park run two mornings!   Where did June go?  It passed by too quickly!

No, Dada!

Princess put these 2 words together tonight at dinner.  The only other 2 words I've heard her try to say together is, "Thank you."  "No, Dada," was very clear and used correctly.  She was sitting with Daddy at the table and clearly not happy with something he was doing.

We have been busy with libraries.  We go to baby story time on Monday mornings.  Champ comes along and helps his sister learn.  On Tuesdays, we go back to the library for craft time for the Champ.  We have run into some old friends during this time so Princess and I hang out with a mom and 3 year old boy during this time.  Today's craft time was about pirates.  We ended our time with a walk over to the local ice cream shop...never a bad time to do that.

We took a long weekend adventure to Holiday World and Big Splash Adventure.  They were fabulous.  Both places had kid appropriate activities and were manned by lots of lifeguards.  Champ loved the waterslides.  He kept making me go down a big, scary one at Big Splash Adventure.  He also loved how there were 2 pools at Big Splash Adventure with 3 basketball hoops.  Kid was content for hours.  Princess loved Daddy walking her around in a raft like royalty on the lazy river.  She also enjoyed when Daddy put her up close enough to a basketball goal so that she could make a basket too.  There were baby areas, but she loves to try to do what her brother does.  She got cold easily, so she was given shorter trips to the pool activities.  We also let Champ play arcade games and cosmic bowling.  In Vincennes, we visited the George Rogers Clark memorial.

Champ is back at swim lessons this week.  He is doing a lot better.

Fathers Day Already?

It is summer break...so why don't I have time to write more???  Well, we are busy.  The Champ survived swim lessons during the week of the 4th.  He got more relaxed and better with each passing day.  By Friday, he was asking for more swim lessons.  So, we signed him up for more lessons at the end of the month.

We had a baseball game last weekend, practice the last few Wednesdays, and our final game yesterday.  During the first inning, the Champ didn't make it to first base before the ball did.  He struck out on inning number 2.  However, he crushed the ball on innings three and four.  He got to play his favorite position (catcher) in his final game, plus many other positions.  He looked good, as did the rest of the team.  The Princess continued to throw dirt on herself and sneak into the dugout whenever the chance arose. 

Last week was basketball camp for the Champ at the CLC.  He didn't like it on Monday, but by Friday he loved it and was begging to go to more camps.  I think it takes him awhile to warm up to something and to find a friend.

I worked on Monday.  I went to an iPad conference.  I learned some cool apps, but most things cost money.  My mom watched the kids.

We have also been busy with friends.  My friend Mandy and I got together last Saturday.  She came to the Champ's game and then she and I went to Panera together.  Yesterday our family traveled to see her sister's family, the Blombergs.  We hadn't seen them in a year, and it was way too long.  On Friday, the Lists came over to play.  One of their sons had gone to Explorers with our Champ.  The son went to kindergarten at the elementary school that our Champ will go to in the fall.  It was good for the boys to see each other again.  Perhaps they will be in the same classroom, or at least see each other on the playground at recess.  We also went to Vanessa's house on Wednesday to enjoy the company of her family and their pool.

Last night we went to a surprise party for my aunt and uncle.  They were celebrating 25 years of marriage.  The party was at one of their friend's houses.  The home was beautiful, but she had a lake in her back yard.  Daddy and I played a lot of defense last night as we tried to protect the Princess was falling into the lake.  She wanted to get very close to the water because there were TONS of fish in it.  It was great to spend time with family, including family we don't see very often.  Princess cracked me up when she let my dad's cousin, Keith, walk her down to the lake.  She must have decided she liked him because she proceeded to sit on his lap for another 15 minutes or so, even though she hadn't sat the whole evening.

I have been busy organizing and sorting out.  Now that we have a place where we can settle for awhile, I've been looking through what can stay and what needs to go.

Today I helped with Champ's Sunday school room.  Then we went to service.  Father's Day lunch was celebrated at Chili's.  We accomplished a few tasks this afternoon, but Daddy still got time to enjoy baseball and golf.

Summer Begins

Daddy went to the 500 race.  It was very hot.

Champ had a baseball game on Tuesday.  He was devastated because he struck out for the first time at his last time to bat.  We went over coping strategies that night for what to do if you are really angry and sad.  Good life lessons.

I worked a half day last Wednesday.  A co-worker's daughter babysat the kids.  I didn't learn much new about the intended subject, differentiation.  However, I sure had fun learning more about my new ipad.  The corporation gave teachers ipads for the coming year. 

On Thursday, I ran at the gym with my friend Kelly while our kids went to the gym's child care facility.  Then we went to my friend Bekah's pool for a brief swim for the Champ.  Princess hated that I would only let her put her toes in the pool, but it was too cold for her to go all the way in.  Champ was so depressed Thursday night.  There was a baseball clinic given by the Indians followed by a game that he and Daddy were attending.  The clinic was mostly lecture style.  Daddy drove home before seeing any of the game.  Rain delayed the game until after 9.  The game didn't end until after midnight.  Champ was devastated that he didn't get to see any of the Indians game.

On Saturday, Kelly and I ran again.  Daddy made "the best ever" waffles according to The Champ.  Champ played another baseball game around noon.  My parents attended.  He struck out once in the middle of the game, but handled it much better.  He did agreat job in the game.  We enjoyed a lovely cook out for a friend's baby, Bo, that was turning a year.  Champ enjoyed playing baseball in the yard with friends.  Princess enjoyed the play equipment.

Sunday was my first chance to help in Champ's new Sunday school room.  He just moved to a first grade room.  We went to Ruby Tuesday for lunch.  Champ terrified me when he started choking.  We made it through though.  We went to a park that night.

Yesterday we began Princess's story times at the library.  She kind of had a look on her face that said, "What in the world?"  We also ran into my friend that has quintuplets...yes, 5 babies all born on my birthday almost 5 years ago.  Yesterday was Champ's first swim lesson of the summer.  He is getting one on one lessons from a high school senior at the high school.  Champ was not expecting the lesson to be in the diving well.  He was panicing.  He couldn't relax and trust that the guy would help him.  He couldn't touch the bottom.  At one point during the lesson, he screamed that he was drowning.  It was painful to watch.  Princess also had a melt down at the start of the lesson when she realized that she was strapped in the stroller and not going in the pool.  Good times.  At my school's playground in the afternoon, Princess received a hard lesson...she isn't six and the play equipment always wins.  She tried to do a move that her brother did.  However, she fell and cut the inside of her lip pretty good.  We ran over to the doctor to see if she needed stitches.  The doctor said that she didn't recommend stitches.  She also told us that none of her teeth appeared to be loose.  I'm always amazed when accidents happen, even when I'm in close range.  For this one, both my mom and I were standing very near to Princess.  Oh, well.

Today we began with an Angry Bird craft lesson at the library for the Champ.  They turned pom poms into Angry Bird characters and launched them.  Then I bravely took the gang back for Champ's swim lessons.  We prayed some about the swim lesson in the car.  Today Champ was much better in the pool.  He seemed to trust the guy more and not be as scared.  He was also putting his eyes in the pool, which was forcing his body to surface.

Princess is a reader.  She loves the books Moo Baa La La La, Bubbles Bubbles, and The Going to Bed Book.  It is fun to hear her "read" the books herself.  She has also started listening to actual stories as we read rather than just demanding for us to name the picture.  She seems to be picking up on a lot more words.  Imagine how excited we are that she started saying no and mine.  I still love first thing in the morning when Princess and Champ hug each other as if they hadn't seen each other in days.  They are always so excited to see each other then.

School's Out for the Summer!

The Champ ended his kindergarten career on Wednesday.  My parents and our family went to his graduation ceremony.  The Champ did a great job saying and signing the letter M and mitt during the introduction.  His class sang My Mother is a Baker.  When awards were passed out, The Champ got a medal for having the most AR points in his class.  He also got a certificate for being a "math whiz" and demonstrating excellence in physical education.  He enjoyed desserts and chasing his friends afterwards.  Princess enjoyed part of graduation, but then she had more fun exploring the church with my dad.  The Champ wanted to see a babtismal after the graduation.  Princess climbed right on up the stairs and on to the stage to see what was going on.

Champ got to go to work with Daddy on Thursday since his (now former) school offered no child care while Princess went to day care.  That was also my last day with students.  We were simply counting down the minutes till summer since grades were due on Wednesday at 9.  Our family went to our favorite local restaurant that night for dinner to celebrate.

Friday was my last day of the spring boot camp.  I enjoyed it.  There was a short workout and breakfast that day.  I got to work early so that I could complete my required 3 1/2 hour work day and leave.  Princess went to her last day care day at our old day care before we switch her.  Champ went to a friend's house.  We ran errands in the afternoon, including enrolling Champ in public school for the fall.

The Days after Mothers Day

On both Monday and Saturday, Champ had baseball games.  He hasn't struck out yet.  You also are guaranteed a minimum of 9 pitches.

On Tuesday, I got an Ipad.  Thanks, work!  Champ and I are enjoying getting to know the device.

Saturday we headed for Cincinnati for Caroline's birthday party at Recreations Unlimited.  Both kids were busy the whole party.  Champ worked up a good sweat.

We went from there to my brother's house.  We ate dinner there with my brother, his family, and my parents.  Princess loved the visit because of their dog Doodle.

Next, we traveled to a nearby Holiday Inn for the night.  Much to our surprise, the crib they assembled crumbled soon after we put Princess in it.  There had been only 3 supports, rather than 6.  As soon as she wiggled, the bottom gave way.  Thankfully, her feet were heading to the floor before her head.  Needless to say, we spoke to 3 different people in the last few days regarding the incident.

On Sunday, I woke up before the gang and brought back McDonalds for breakfast.  The boys went swimming while the girls got ready for our day.  Then we headed to Cincinnati's Zoo.  We loved it there.  We left after 4 1/2 hours because we were exausted, not because we ran out of stuff to do.  We loved the variety of animals, shade, and the number of employees there to teach us and help us learn.

Happy Mother's Day to Me

It was a great Mother's Day.  The boys made waffles for breakfast.  They gave terrific gifts.  Champ gave me a quilt with the ABCs sewn on it by him.  Daddy gave me a membership to a massage place.  We went to church and Kroger.  Hubby grilled steaks for lunch, and we enjoyed dinner on the deck.  Baby and I took naps.  We went to the park and our favorite local ice cream place.  We went on a bike ride too.  We think it is time to take the Champ's training wheels off soon.  Dinner was leftovers on the deck.

Yesterday was busy.  I traveled with 9 other coworkers to the far side of the city for the Dirty Girl Mud Run.  That was a fun 5 K with muddy obstacles.  I have a feeling that it will lead to lots of humorous stories for a long time to come.  While I was gone, the others went to the Champ's baseball game.  He had a hit in each of the 4 innings.  In the afternoon, Daddy took Champ to play a wii football game at the CLC.  I took the Champ to our neighbor's birthday party at the Children's Museum.  Champ was very upset at first because he appeared to be the only boy at a very girly birthday party.  I assured him that Emily invited him because she liked him as a friend, regardless of the fact that he was a boy.  Another boy arrived at the party and that loosened him up a bit.  He had fun exploring the museum, but it is hard to do what the birthday girl wants when you are used to choosing what to explore there.  After the party, I took the Champ to meet my parents at the movie theater.  They took him to a pirates movie and to a Chinese buffet.  We never choose Chinese food, so he was particularly happy with the Chinese buffet.  While the Champ was enjoying his grandparents, the rest of us did dinner at Quiznos and bought me new running shoes.  The Dirty Girl Mud Run meant the ending of my previous shoes.

The rest of the week had been busy.  Last Sunday the girls went to my aunt's farmhouse for a wedding shower for my cousin's soon to be wife.  Princess loved the party...there was a dog and cupcakes...what more does a girl need?  While the girls were partying, the boy's were at my uncle's house.  My cousin took Champ on his first 4 wheeler ride, which he loved...of course.  That night was an awards ceremony at Awana.  Although we got there late, the Champ still got a certificate and pizza.

This week we turned in our resignation for the day care.  We are thankful for the ones that have loved on our children over the years and pointed them to Christ.  However, my biggest gripes at the day care are inconsistent communication (between kids and staff and between parents and staff), unrealistic expectations (of both children and staff), breeches in security, and regular staff turnover.  We are excited to be moving Princess to a new place in the fall.  We are excited for Champ to start a public school too.

This past week was week 4 of boot camp for me.  It has been a great adventure.  This week we did one workout outside, one kickboxing/cardio workout, and another one that I can't remember.

We also had the graduation dinner event for hubby for the county leadership training in which he had been involved.  I'm proud of him.  The dinner was delicious, but boy was the evening long.  Thankfully my parents were babysitting the kids.  Mom enjoyed quality time with Princess while my dad took Champ to his baseball game.  The game got poured on.  I think my dad made a wise decision to leave rather than wait it out.  Champ has had 3 consecutive rounds of strep recently.

Daddy worked the concession stand Friday night.  That is the bad thing about being a coach.  He stepped up when no one else did.  The kids and I went out for dinner at Max and Ermas.  We were celebrating another great week at school for Champ.

Princess is getting very good at animal noises.  She has pretty good noises for sheep, cow, horse, duck, bear, lion, dog, and cat.  My favorite, though, is her monkey noise.  She gets a big grin on her face and kind of dances from side to side as she makes the noise.  She can point to her head, hair, ears, nose, mouth, elbows, arms, toes, and fingers.  I love the start of the day when she is super excited to hug her brother.  She also loves to laugh at him, and he loves to have an audience.  When he isn't tormenting her, they can be a pretty good team.

Updates

On the 24th, The Champ had his spring program.  He was disappointed that he didn't get used as a soloist.  (He was a backup soloist.)  Those programs are incredibly long, and I have a hard time following what the speakers are saying.  Despite the fact that The Champ said he practiced the hour long standing program twice already that day, he did great in the evening.  Princess had more fun weaving in and out of the rows of chairs.

The 25th, 28th, and today were baseball games.  It is really hard to have a baseball game in the middle of the school week.  Champ loves baseball.  He especially loves being the catcher.  Daddy is a good coach and pitcher.  Princess is a better fan when she is snacking.  Lots of my students come to say hi when they see me at the games.  Today was also picture day for baseball.

On the 28th, we had Princess dedicated during the Saturday evening service.  I completely dressed Princess as a Princess that night.  She and the Champ stood very still and quiet in the front of the room with us.  Princess's one year old picture that Vanessa took was up on the big screen.  We had gone over our names with the children's pastor before the service, but he still messed up on Daddy's name during the service.

On the 29th, we went to a birthday party for Champ's friend, Luke.  They had a Lego guy there that facilitated Lego activities before we ate.  Luke's mom had created a fabulous Star Wars cake.  I almost hated eating it because it was so intricately decorated.

This week was busy for me with the start of ISTEP's round two, the online version.  I also completed week 3 of boot camp.  I was proud of myself for surviving the 5:30 AM 3 mile road run yesterday.

Our evening tonight included having my parents and Grandma over for a belated birthday celebration for my dad.  It was a great evening to grill and eat outside.  Princess got a chance to show off all her new animal sounds and body parts that she can identify.

Baa

Today the baby said baa when I asked her what a sheep said.  I was so happy about it that she started saying the sound for every animal.

Kites and Dogs

Yesterday was windy enough to go outside and try to fly the kite that we gave the Champ for his birthday. Boy, are getting kites into the air difficult. However, when they get up, it is so exciting.

Princess really was into the kite, but she was more counterproductive. She and I took a small walk. She gets so fired up when she sees a dog. She points, makes a noise (letting me know that she wants me to name him and say woof woof), and tries to say woof woof herself (although only her family probably understands what she is trying to do). We met two dogs that night and loved it.

Spring Break Fun

On Friday, the kids and I enjoyed a day at home. However, on Saturday, our adventure began. We first drove to Marengo Cave and completed the hour guided tour. The Champ was a little hesitant at first due to the lights not being turned on yet. later, he loved the tour. Princess hated the tour. We had to carry her most of the way, and she wanted to explore on her own instead. It was great to give the Champ a new experience. We even saw live bats up close. We took a nature trail over the cave by ourselves. We ate at Wendy's for dinner. There was a brief stop of the car for mom to get out and see the original state capital in Corydon. We used Priceline to save us 56% off lodging for the evening at Crowne Plaza by the airport. The hotel was beautiful. We watched the early Final Four game.






I was up and exercising early on Sunday at the fitness center. Daddy brought us McDonalds for breakfast. We made our way to downtown Louisville. We ate at the Spaghetti Factory for lunch. Then we walked to the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. It was a big hit for the Champ. He loved learning how the bats were made, hitting in the batting cages, the movie, etc. The Princess fell asleep on the factory tour. I loved watching her in the t-ball batting cage. She had clearly watched her brother. She knew to put the ball at the top of the tee and to try to hit it off with the bat. So cute. We walked by the river and enjoyed dinner on the river at Joe's Crab Shack. Beautiful view and beautiful weather...couldn't resist eating out on the deck. We went to the playground on the riverfront and walked some on the river walk. We again used Priceline to save us money on lodging at the Courtyard by Marriot at the airport.






On Monday, daddy brought us breakfast again from McDonalds. Then the boys enjoyed the swimming pool. We had lunch by the Ohio River. We went to Falls of the Ohio. Champ loved climbing on the rocks as we searched for fossils. I was shocked by how much litter there was at the site. We drove to Lexington. On the way there, we made sure to pass the capitol. It was good to eat dinner again at a Backyard Burgers. (We used to eat at those in Missouri.) However, Backyard Burgers was out of baked potatoes by the time we got there at 6. Daddy and Princess walked to Cracker Barrell later so the Princess could eat some more food. The kids and I fell asleep instead of watching the championship game. Daddy watched the championship game downstairs.





I began Tuesday in the fitness room of the hotel. Afterward, we walked to Cracker Barrell for breakfast. We checked out of the hotel, did a quick lap around UK, and went to the Lexington Children's Museum. The kids loved making bubbles, walking on the "moon," saddling a pretend horse, playing doctor, building with blocks, etc.

The Birthday Week

Although we didn't send the Champ to church last weekend, he seemed better in the afternoon. We sent him to Awana. That evening I thought he had a fever, and he did. On the following day...his birthday...his fever was down a little. He really wanted to go to school since it was his birthday. I asked him if he could participate in gym class. He said it would be too hard. That's when we knew he was really sick. Daddy took him to the doctor on his birthday, and we learned that he had strep. Bummer of a birthday...stayed home from school and from the basketball awards that evening.

On Tuesday, I stayed home with him and Princess as Champ continued to recover. I know he was bummed about missing karate.

Wednesday everyone was back to the grind. I came over to Champ's school during my lunch and recess to help pass out his birthday treats...popsicles. Popsicles were a big hit. He picked Henry to pass out napkins for the treats. In a surprising move, he picked Brooklyn to help him take extra treats "down the hall" to other teachers. I asked him later why he chose Brooklyn. (Brooklyn is a nice girl that he has known for years, but I was surprised he didn't choose a boy.) He told me that Brooklyn was following directions when the teacher asked everyone to sit down rather than crowd him. I was so exhausted that night....all my 5 AM workouts/teaching/mothering/etc. finally got the best of me...I went to bed that night at 6:30 and slept till 7 AM on Thursday.

Thankfully Thursday was the last day before break for all of us. Champ and Daddy went to the Pacers game that night. (Pacers played the Wizards and won by 4 points.) Princess and I opted for a long walk around the neighborhood.

Today the kids and I went to the CLC. Champ played a NBA game on the wii...virtual exercising! :) Then we went to the basketball court. Champ really wanted to play a basketball game with some boys already on the court. However, he was too shy to ask. So, I eventually asked their dad if he could be included. Champ had a great time playing with the boys. We had wanted to go outside later, but the weather was producing hail and rain.

This week Princess has tried to immitate the noises that animals make. I doubt the majority of the world would know what she is trying to do, but I do. She loves pointing to the animals in her books. We say the animal name and the sound the animal makes. I love that she is trying these sounds too. So cute!

Princess thinks Champ is hilarious, and Champ loves having an audience. They feed off of each other and are just so adorable when they are getting along well.

A Good Week

We are simply 4 days away from spring break. Hooray! The weather has been incredibly nice, making us long even more for a break.

Champ loves his karate at after care on Tuesdays.

On Wednesday, we walked over to the last basketball practice of this season.

On Thursday, we celebrated the Champ's birthday at my parents' house.

On Friday, I enjoyed my cardio kickboxing class with my friend Bekah. When I came home, I waited for my shower to warm up. It never did. Our hot water heater isn't working. We went with the Toths for a cookout at the Worgess house. Those are always fun.

On Saturday, Champ had the last game of the season. He scored 4 baskets during his 3 quarters. Daddy and I traded watching the kids or exercising. We went to my parents' house to enjoy showers. The Champs' birthday celebration was that evening. We were taking 2 boys bowling. The boys loved bowling. Champ won both games...it helped to have the bumpers up. When we went with the boys and their families to Steak n Shake, Champ kept complaining about his stomach and wanting to go home or go to the bathroom. I think he eventually got sick in the bathroom. He came home and fell asleep with his head on the toilet seat lid.

Today Princess and I were the only ones to go to church. Daddy stayed home with the Champ, but he seems to be feeling better. I volunteered to help in Princess's room today.

Keep on Moving

Basketball practices on Wednesday are always a highlight. This time we walked to and from practice. On Thursday, we took The Champ to the driving range and putt putt course as a treat for being "brave" at a doctor's appointment. He was thrilled to be back. Princess played some great defense on the putt putt course. She held on to three balls for most of the 18 holes, and she wasn't parting with them for anything.

On Friday, we went to our favorite local park. The kids love everything there.

Saturday morning brought another basketball game. Champ made 1 basket. We went to the library to check out books. We spent multiple hours working in the yard on Saturday.

Sunday brought a second lost tooth for the Champ. Sunday we went to church, our favorite local taco joint, and Kroger. Champ and I worked in the yard a little bit. Then the kids and I went to a neighbor's house to play with their kids. We went out to dinner with the Toths and Worgesses. We were celebrating one dad's birthday. We went to dinner at a local pizza place, followed by ice cream at another favorite local ice cream joint. The line for ice cream was wrapped around the building, and no one left line when they announced that they ran out of vanilla.

Today we went to Taret after school. We were buying diapers, spending money from the tooth fairy, and scouting out toys the Champ would want for his birthday. I love how Princess goes to the door to the sunroom and longlingly starts tapping at the door to let us know that she wants to go outside. We have been playing a lot on the deck and in the backyard. Champ loves sports outside, of course. We are working with Princess on sitting down at the edge of the deck and getting off the deck with your feet hitting the ground first.

Great Weekend

The Champ went to my parent's house Friday evening for dinner and a movie (Peter Pan). While he was away, the remaining 3 of us used our Groupon coupon at Pipers. We ate delicious salads and an appetizer sampler.

On Saturday, the Champ was one of 5 people to play on his basketball team. Everyone got to play the whole game. The Champ scored 5 baskets. Next, we went to the Children's Museum. It was opening day for their Lego exhibit. We came home for a nap for Princess. Mommy and Daddy traded turns working out at the CLC. Then Daddy took The Champ to a family fun night at the school he will go to next year. My highlight of the day though was when the Champ and Princess sat side by side and he read some books to her.

Today we went to church. It was good to see the pastor (who is recovering from throat cancer) give a quick hello via video. After church, we always have to play in the boat and on the indoor playground. We headed to Kroger for groceries. When Princess napped, Champ and I walked to his school for next year and played on the playground. We babysat for a friend's kids today. They joined us at the playground. We all walked home where we played in the backyard for hours. Princess joined us in the backyard when she woke up from her nap. We painted with water; blew bubbles; and played soccer, tennis, and tag. We made our own pizzas for dinner. Princess and I stopped by my parents house.

Books, Books, Books

I can't believe how into books Princess suddenly is. I love how she backs her little self right up to me and plops down in my lap. She wants me to read to her all the time...no exaggeration. We are reading Hop on Pop, Maisy's Favorite Animals, Maisy's Favorite Toys, I Like to Play, Mr. Brown Can Moo Can You, First Words, That's Not My Truck, That's Not My Snowman, Babies on the Move, Elmo's Guessing Game About Colors, The Going to Bed Book, etc.

Champ loves books too. He chose a Scooby Doo book from his school library today. We read that twice and Dino Soccer (three times) tonight.

We are also supposed to be working on memorizing the books of the Bible for Awana.

Our Week

It was either this week or last week that the Champ was the Star Student in art. He listened and obeyed.

On Tuesday, we visited another day care for the second time. We have enrolled Princess in the day care. She is set to begin there in August. I'm really dissatisfied with some things that have happened at the current school that she and the Champ attend. We are looking forward to switching her to a day care with better security and where the staff are more thoroughly trained. It is also a 3-4 minute drive to get there, and it is located roughly the same distance away from the school the Champ will go to next year.

The Champ started Karate this week at after care. He, of course, loved it.

Wednesday night was basketball practice. Daddy is really doing a good job of helping the team grow.

Thursday night the kids and I went to Chicago's Pizza with the Osborns. It was good to catch up.

The Champ got the star student award in music on Friday. He was very well behaved during the music movie.

On Friday night, the kids and I went to get the Champ a treat at Meijer. (He deserved it after a rough doctor's appointment.) Then we went to Chick Fil A. It was a super hero party that night. The Champ dressed as spiderman. He got a Captain America cape from the restaurant. An artist was there who drew pictures for the kids. A spiderman there to get your picture with. The kids used silly string like it was spiderwebs.

Today was the Champ's basketball game. My mom and my grandma joined Princess and I in the stands. She snuggled with us while the Champ made 4 baskets, rebounds, and great passes. He even pays attention to the game from the bench. Daddy was super excited at the good job the team did.

Champ earned a pizza tonight through the Book It program at Pizza Hut. We loved that Pizza Hut ran out of personal pan pizzas and so the Champ got a pizza (for free) that was at least twice the size he usually gets.

Princess has been requesting us read to her a lot of books. She holds the book up to us and crawls up in our laps. I love that she is enjoying books. She is also enjoying coloring. She is very protective about her favorite things. She does not like it at all if the Champ gets on her rocking horse or sits in her chair. She also doesn't like him reading Hop on Pop. Somehow she thinks it is a good idea to go after him and try to get him to physically move out of her way.

I am proud of myself for making it to the CLC every work morning this week to work out. I even made it to a 5:00 AM kickboxing class with my friend Bekah. Daddy and I traded turns going to the CLC today to work out. I was super excited to run into my friend Vanessa while I was there. She and I got to catch up while working out.

My Baby Said Baby

Our baby said her first word (besides the variations of mom and dad). She said baby several times today. We both heard it. Perhaps she got the idea from a book she has about babies.

The Champ started Karate today. It is being taught to him once a week at after care.

We also went exploring tonight (for the second time) to another day care for the baby for August. I'm looking forward to simplifying my life for next year.

Our Week

Basketball practice is in the middle of the week, and it is always a highlight. This week was no exception. The Champ loves it. We've signed him up for T-ball next.

Wednesday was also when I came to The Champ's class to talk about my job. The teacher welcomed parents in to talk about jobs. So, I used my lunch and recess times to come to his class. I think he was excited to have me there. He said he learned some new things about my work too.

On Saturday, we had an early basketball game. My parents made it there, and the Champ scored a career high (4 baskets) while they were there. The Champ really hustles after balls, and he seems to have a knack for passing the ball.

We went to the library after the game. We've been busy reading books the rest of the weekend. We ate lunch on Saturday at Steak n Shake. Dad and I swapped turns watching the kids and working out at the CLC. Dad brought home tacos from our favorite local joint for dinner.

We went to church today. We played in the boat and park afterwards, as usual. Then we did our usual grocery shopping, except today we went to Kroger rather than Meijer. The Champ went to Awana this evening before playing a little baseball with Daddy...they had to enjoy a little of the warmer weather. We had chicken and noodles cooking in the crock pot today, and it made for a delicious dinner.

The Champ and I also enjoyed some painting together this weekend. Princess is really getting into having us read her books.

President's Day

Yesterday we attended church in the morning. The gal who does music for the children's programming said that the Champ, "is one smart cookie." It is always good to hear that he is doing well. We headed to Meijer, as usual, afterwards. We got necessary food supplies, and Daddy did some freezer cooking in the afternoon while I graded papers.

We went to have dinner with the Worgesses last night. Everyone has a good time when we are together.

Today Daddy had to go to work, regardless of the holiday. The kids and I went to the CLC this morning. Champ enjoyed playing football on the wii while we were there. Then we stopped fake exercising and did some real exercising. Champ shot some hoops while Princess strutted her stuff around the court.

Wrapping up the week

Wednesday daddy picked up the baby from day care...pink eye again. He also stayed home with her on Thursday. He took the Champ to basketball practice Wednesday night, while I stayed home with the baby. On Friday, my mom watched both kids. (The Champ had the day off for a long holiday weekend.)

Today we went to the Champ's basketball game. He took tons of shots, but none of his shots went in. However, he has a great awareness of where the ball is, and he hustles after loose balls. He also gets rebounds. He can make an overhead pass across the lane to an open teammate. The teammates just can't catch those passes yet. Princess enjoyed a good snack during the game, and then she liked clapping for people.

Princess seems to be enjoying books more. She really likes it when we read Maisy's Favorite Animals and Hop on Pop. I'm also noticing that she seems to be holding the book properly (so that the pictures aren't upside down).

Daddy and I covered the homefront for each other so that we could each exercise at the CLC. I've been getting over there around 5:30 am ish during the work week. It is good for me, but I am exhausted.

This evening we used a gift card at Rock Bottom. Everyone enjoyed their meals. I'm constantly amazed at how much both kids can eat. The Champ got to make his own pizza there. Plus, he ate all of Princess's green beans. When we were walking through the mall on the way to our car, he asked if he could have one of those giant pretzels when we passed the pretzel store. We got Princess her own kid's meal for the first time. She loved her mac n cheese. That restaurant really hiked up the price on that mac n cheese. With the price, I expected homemade mac n cheese, but we were certain it was Kraft from a box. I thought my seafood salad was delicious, and daddy liked his guacamole burger.

Back at home, we were reading books and the Bible again before bed.

Valentine's Day

Yesterday was good. I picked the kids up from school. We went to Meijer to get a toy with their Valentine's Day money. Champ got Star Wars figurines, and Princess got fat crayons and paper. Then we went to Chick Fil A and enjoyed a nutritious dinner. I ordered grilled nuggets for the Champ. They sure seemed like a grilled chicken sandwich that was cut up.

Now Princess is sick and home AGAIN.

The Week in Review

I stayed home on Monday and Tuesday to let Princess recover from pink eye. Wednesday night was, of course, a hit with basketball practice. Thursday was Daddy working late. He showed up right when I was trying to get Princess to sleep. She was too excited to see Daddy. Therefore, she didn't want to go to sleep. Friday night we ate dinner at Bravo.

On Saturday, we were busy. First, we went to the Champ's basketball game. My parents joined us. The Champ made 3 baskets. He also did a better job of getting a rebound and putting it right back up rather than dribble out of traffic. He also had a great look and overhead pass to a kid wide open under the basket. The kid missed the pass, but when the Champ is older that pass will be caught by a teammate and lead to a basket.

We went to the library next. Although there are toys at the library, Champ was more excited to check out books. We worked with a librarian to find some books we might like (20 to be exact). Then we stayed for their Lego literacy program. Basically, Champ got to use the library's legos while surrounded by books. He loved it. We went to one of our favorite taco places for lunch.

On Saturday evening, we had Daddy's 40th birthday open house. I'd invited a wide variety of friends for an open house, beginning at 4. We had Seinfeld themed food to share. Guests were asked to bring 40 of something. Here's how it went: Meyers: memory aide tips; Worgesses: fiber pills; Toths: wings and bottle caps; Davises: 4T t-shirt; Riches: picture frame with 40 written in 40 different languages; Petersons: Seinfeld quotes; Shank/Anderson/House: candy and pennies; Day: binder rings. It was fun to see what people brought. People could bring kids, so there were plenty of kids running out and enjoying the toys. I love how kids don't even need to know the names of the kids they are playing with.

Today was church and our weekly Meijer run. I went into school while the baby napped. I enjoyed learning Crazy 8s (purchased with his money from the tooth fairy) from the Champ. The baby is interested in and trying to use a spoon. She loves having me read a book to her called Maisy's Favorite Animals. I love when she crawls up on my lap with this book. I think she has figured out which direction the pictures should face too.

Sunday/Monday

On Sunday, we stumbled upon the fact that Princess has pink eye. It is impossible to keep a sick 14 month old from rubbing her eyes. Instead, we have pretty much cleaned the house from top to bottom. The baby has been quarantined in the play room with only toys that will be easy for me to clean. I took off yesterday and will take off tomorrow too.

Champ lost his first tooth yesterday. He literally ran around the inside of the house seven times afterwards in pure excitement.

The pink eye meant Daddy and baby didn't get to go to Worgess house for Super Bowl party. I'm glad the Giants won!

Super Bowl is upon us

The last week has been action packed, in large part due to the Super Bowl. Last weekend the baby and I dropped the boys off downtown for the Super Bowl Village and NFL experience. Princess and I went to the Children's Museum. The Champ, of course, loved the NFL experience, including a NFL workout. I noticed later that day that Princess was running a fever.

On Sunday, I stayed home from church with Princess. Boys went to church. Later, Champ and I went to a Super Celebration site. He got to do a punt, pass, kick contest; XBox 360; and arts and crafts. I took him to Meijer to help me shop too.

On Tuesday, Champ's school had a reading rocks night. They were celebrating reading, although there wasn't much reading going on. We were read two books. The Champ did a cake walk, Guitar Hero, and some other games.

On Wednesday, it was basketball practice. Champ loves both the games and practice.

On Thursday, Daddy went to a Butler basketball game with a friend.

After numerous students had been pulled out of my class this week for Super Bowl activities, I decided to see what all the fuss as about. So, this time Daddy and baby dropped the Champ and I off downtown for Super Bowl activities. It was EXTREMELY packed downtown. We listened to music, got a chance to try curling, played cornhole, saw some of an ESPN broadcast, walked around, etc. Champ and I eventually walked over to Victory Field where they picked us up. It was so crowded that that intersection was closed probably a half hour later due to pedestrian traffic. We were glad to get out of downtown.

Today was Champ's first game in the new season. He didn't get a basket, but looked pretty good. I want to see the birth certificate for the kid guarding him the first half. He was easily a half foot taller than Champ. One thing Champ needs to work on is getting a rebound and taking it back up to the hoop. He would get a rebound and dribble the ball away from the basket.

Basketball is Back!

The Champ's next season of basketball began this evening. Daddy is coaching. There are 4 girls and 5 boys on his team. Princess sat contentedly and watching half the pracitce. Then she decided that she needed to explore some. I enjoyed talking to another mom in the stands.

The evenings are really rushed with a visit to the gym, but we love it.

Princess turned 14 months old today! She is so grown up. Last night she wanted me to keep reading her a very small book. I read it 3 times before my own dad popped over to drop something off. I'm glad she is starting to show an interest in books.

Princess has my dad wrapped around her little finger. She kept snuggling up to him last night as he was holding her.

Tuesday

Dad was a team player and went to work early so that he could pick up the kids early. I wanted to go to a meeting after school, so he helped out how he could.

We are enjoying clean clothes. Our dryer was broken for a week, but it is now fixed.

The Champ watched some TV after school. When we realized that he left his back pack at school, we improvised on his homework. I'm appealing to his competitive nature and having him compete against Daddy in word recognition contests. He seems to like it.

Princess was cracking up tonight with Daddy. Daddy was stealing paper out of her hand, and she thought it was hilarious. Not really, but I guess a lot of things are funny when you are a year. She is taking an interest in using a spoon and fork, but she isn't good at using them yet. She also likes to play a hide and seek game, but instead of covering her face...she covers her ears. We ask, "Where did Baby go?" Another hilarious game.

Daddy and I have started to enjoy cooking once every 2 weeks or so and freezing the meals. Tonight we enjoyed meatloaf and mashed potatoes from our freezer. Yum! Yum!

Start of the Week

Yesterday we went to church without Daddy. He hasn't been feeling well. The Champ and I took a trip to Meijer while the others napped. When the Champ and I returned home, we made zucchini bread with blueberries. My friend Dani gave me the idea. The Champ went to Awana last night.

Today we were back at work/school. Our dryer was fixed after school. I can't wait to start chipping away at the laundry pile again. That pile never has a bottom.

We are clapping for Princess when she gets off the couch feet first. She loves to clap too. Her whole face lights up. She was also giggling nonstop at her brother tonight. He was playing some kind of keep away game with her pacifier. She thought it was hilarious.

Today the Champ celebrated the 100th day of school at his school. I'm inclined to think that someone isn't counting very well. Today was also the 100th day of school at my school. I don't know how it could be the 100th day at both schools because my school has been in session longer than his.