17 years of lovin you...

It was 17 years ago on this day that I saw a beautiful man and knew instantly I would be in his life forever. I was at Enchillada's in Downtown Dallas w/my cousin. We walked in and saw this table full of guys - about 20 of them. I immediately spotted, David - the most handsome one out of the group. Where we sat, my back was to him. I kept turning around looking through the table of guys to catch his eye. And luckily for me - he was leaning forward, trying to catch mine back. We played eye flirting all through the meal. Then it was time to go. For some reason, I was too nervous to go up to him and give him my number. I know, right? Little surprising - but I was. So, I found a maid in the building, paid her $5, and asked her to give him my number. I watched from around the corner to make sure she gave it to the right one. It took a few days and then he finally called. We met at a local bar, and I had my cousin tag along. Funny thing is - I wasn't 21. I was 20 years old and not legally old enough to drink. Of course - I was nervous to tell him that. I knew he was definitely older than me. I later found out he was 30 years old, and it took him awhile to call me b/c he knew I was young. We had a great time on our first date. My cousin ended up leaving and we talked for hours.

From that moment on, we were inseparable. We were together almost everyday for 2 years. And then, sadly, we broke up. I think I was too much for him : ) I was pretty sad about the break-up. He told me - if you were 5 years older - it would be different.

So for the next 5 years, I would call him just to check in. I wanted him to know that I was still here. I didn't want him to forget about me. (which was silly - b/c how could he, right?) Sure, he dated and I dated other people. But I knew that if I ever were to settle down - it would be w/him.

So, 5 years after our break-up, I bought a computer. And of course, I didn't know how to hook it up. So who do you think I called to come and do it? That's right - David! He came over, hooked up my computer for me ..... and after that - we were back together. And we've been together ever since (that was in February 2001).

It's been the greatest time of my life! I'm so blessed to have such an incredible man by my side! I love you David!

2011 Comes to an End!

I can't believe that another year has gone by already. It's amazing that as we get older - time goes by so much more quickly.

This year has been good for our family. We have been blessed so much!

David has been working more than ever. He hardly took any time off. There were a couple of scares at the Bank, but he thankfully made it through. We pray that continues in the New Year. He hasn't spent a lot of time golfing this year. Although he did go on his annual golf trip during the summer. I hope he'll be able to golf more in the New Year. I know it relaxes him and he enjoys it so much. He was able to go and visit his mom in El Paso this year. He really enjoyed it. And was so thankful for the trip and the time w/his Mutti. Other than that, he spends time on the video games. He LOVES the video games. Santa brought the boys a new keyboard for Christmas, and David has really been enjoying it. It amazes me how he can listen to music, and just about play it on any instrument. I hope at least one (if not all) of the boys picks that up from him.

Ben is half way through 4th grade. He's struggled a little. It seems 4th grade is tougher than the other grades. But his teachers are amazing and really helping him pull through. He still loves playing any type of video game he can get his hands on. He's doing more things w/David. They take a lot of things apart to see how they work. He played Basketball the first part of the year - but didn't play anything the second half. I hope we can get him into some type of sport this next year. He did join Boy Scouts breifly - but we had to take him out of that, but we do hope to let him re-join in the New Year.

Will is half way through 1st grade. He's doing great. He loves school, but he mostly loves the social part of school. He's very much like his mommy : ) He enjoys video games as well - from time to time. But if he had his choice - he'd rather be outside climbing the nearest tree. He loves being outside and he loves to explore. He didn't play any sports this year - but he wants to give baseball a try next year. He did join Boy Scouts and he's really enjoying that. We took a little break - so he's ready to go back strong in the New Year.

Andy is in pre-k, and he goes everyday. He really enjoys school and loves his teachers. I can't believe that in 9 months, he'll be in kindergarten. It seems crazy to me. He's my baby, and he knows it : ) He also loves playing Wii & xbox. He also enjoys playing outside too. I think he loves the video games and the playtime outside equally : ) He has not played any sports yet, but he definitely wants to play soccer next year. It's all he's talked about. He tells everyone "my mommy is going to sign me 'in' for soccer." It's so cute.

Kuma is still with us (thankfully). She's 12 1/2 now. She's slowing down, but she's still got a sweet spirit. We added two other members to our family this year. Teddy, (http://wilke-family.blogspot.com/2011/02/meet-charlie.html) who is now 15 months; and Ralf (http://wilke-family.blogspot.com/2011/04/another-member-in-our-pack.html) who is about 3 1/2. The combination of the three of them, especially w/a puppy has taken some time to get use too. But Teddy is finally maturing a bit & it's making life calm down a bit for all of us.

Me? Well .... I had sort of a tough year. I had my gallbladder out in September 2010, and it's taken until now for me to feel 90% better. I had a rough year, but I think (I pray) - I am on the upside of it. I didn't have a very productive year b/c of my sickness, so I'm determined to make this next year a great one! I'm hoping to find something I can do to bring in extra income this next year. I'm not sure what that's going to be yet - but I'm praying and I'm hopeful - I will figure it out. I have alot of changes I plan to make in the New Year, that I hope will be life-long changes. i.e., take my children to Church every week; get our finances in order for future goals; feed my family better quality food, so that we are all healthier; get my household and my children more organized; blog daily; restore relationships; spend more time w/quality friends; nurture the relationships w/my boys; stop using the four letter words that slip out on a daily basis (thanks Angie); be the best mother & wife i can be. I hope with these changes it will make my already wonderful life - perfect!

I hope that all of my friends and family have a tremendous New Year! May you be blessed Richly in this coming year!

Happy New Year!

9/11

On the Eve of the 10th anniversary, it's a difficult day in our house and in every American's house. We remember that horrific day that changed our country forever.


Photo courtesy of Over The Big Moon

 I am certain the events that occured on September 11, 2011 are on everyone's mind. Everyone remembers the exact place they were in when time seemed to stand still. I was working as a paralegal for a lawfirm right outside downtown. I remember I had to be to work at 8:00 a.m. So, when the first tower was hit at 7:46 a.m. (8:46 a.m. NY time) - I was in commute to work. And minutes after I got to work - the 2nd tower was hit at 8:03 a.m. (9:03 am NY time). I remember standing in front of a conference room TV w/my co-workers and the attorneys watching in disbelief. Was this an accident? Was this intentional? We were all so confused as to what we are watching. Then President Bush came on and declared the "War on Terror." Holy cow .... America was under attack! Why would someone do this to our country?

Once I realized that this attack was intentional and pure evil - I remember being really scared for David. He worked in Downtown near lots of big high rises. I called him several times before I finally got him on the phone. And when I did - he was actually out walking around, b/c downtown was going nuts. His building was evacuated - thankfully. And he was able to get out of downtown.

10 years later - the question still rings with me as to why someone would do this to our country. Fortunately, I'm older now and although I am a optomist - I do know that there is evil in the world. It's hard to think about. It's hard to see pictures and watch videos. And mostly - it's hard to explain to my boys.

Benjamin is 9 years old - and he actually knows and understands. I've talked to him about it many times. I  do think he understands the importance of it - but he's just not the type of kid to get upset over something that he can't see or experience. He can feel the realism, but detach.

Andy is 4 years old - and doesn't quite understand. We did talk to him, and he showed a little sadness - but he really doesn't get it.

William is 7 years old - and bless his heart, he's just like me with his emotions. He's empathetic and has a HUGE heart. He hurts if someone else is hurting and he can feel others pain. So tonight - David and I were watching a video about 9/11 - something someone posted on facebook - and William walked in. We've already been talking to him about it, but he hadn't seen pictures or put a face to it. We watched the video with him 5x's - pausing and stopping many, many times. Explaining to him about our country, about the finanical district, and terrorists, about Lady Liberty, about the 2,998 lives that were lost, and the reflections pools that are being built. He had a lot of questions, and we answered them the best we could without scaring him. He's a big worrier and the last thing we want to do is make him not feel safe.

I told him that tomorrow - on September 11 - NYC would be having a memorial at the site of the world trade centers for the families of the victims of 9/11. He asked if we could go there. I told him that once the site is completed (the reflection pools, 4 towers, museum and performing arts center) that we would take a family trip to NYC. I love NYC and am a huge fan of it. I would move my family there in a heartbeat if I could.

A little bit later, William comes to me and says "Tomorrow when NY is having their memorial, can we put on wedding clothes (it's what he refers to as fancy clothes) and have a memorial here at home?" My heart melted..... And immediately said "Yes, of course. That's a great idea, son." He was so happy. And I think even though it's a small gesture - it will help him feel safe having us all together and knowing we are safe.

He also said to me "I am glad you and dad weren't there, but I wish I was." I asked "Why (Even though I knew the answer)?" And he said "Because I want to help them and be a fireman. I feel so sad for them."

My sweet, sweet boy is filled with so much goodness and appreciation of others. I am so thankful that he cares so much for others.

We talked about Lady Liberty and what she stands for and how when he says the Pledge of Allegiance at school - he is speaking of her. I am certain now - that everytime he recites the Pledge of Allegiance, he will think of our Lady Liberty and what she means to our country!

Honor. Remember. Celebrate. Look Forward.

Advice Needed!

We are having SO much trouble getting the boys to go to bed. Well... Will & Andy that is. Ben has his own room - so he does great. He goes to bed, reads a little and then falls asleep. Will & Andy share a room. And it's miserable!!!! Will is actually very good and would go to bed. But he can't b/c the bedtime monster is bugging the dickens out of him. Yes... I am referring to Andy. He was such a great sleeper as a baby. He would sleep something crazy like 14 hours a night. Crazy, right? It was wonderful! Well now, is my payback. B/c he won't go to sleep to save my life.

I just don't know what to do to get Andy to go to sleep. He's been sleeping w/David and I for the last 2 years (he's 4). And so has Will off and on. School is starting - so we are making Will go back to his bed. He's a little scared too - but he's fine. He's a good sleeper. And with him, we would love it if Andy would get out of our bed too. David and I have not slept alone in our bed together in 9 years. I would really like to have a good nights sleep. It NEVER happens.

We intend to move in a year or so - to have more space. But for the time being, we are short on space. As I said - Ben has a room. Andy & Will share a room. David & I have a room. And then we have one bedroom that is designated for the media/xbox room. Which we really kinda need. Having the media room really helps out w/fighting and giving the kids somewhere to go.

Andy can wake up at 6am, take a nap/not take a nap, and still stay up till 11pm. It's amazing. I don't know why this kid doesn't want to go to sleep. I'm exhausted!

I am very frustrated. It seems I've had this dilemma for ever. Well ... for 9 years now. I'm ready for it to come to an end. But I don't know what to do. I've done everything I can think to do.

I would LOVE advice from other mothers who have dealt w/this or might have some ideas. I'm desperate.

A Sign!

I have been watching "Switched at Birth". It's a new series on the Family Channel that comes on Monday nights. It's about 2 girls who were switched at birth and one of them happens to be deaf. So on this show - there's a lot of speaking in sign. And the girl who is deaf on the show, Daphne, reads lips well but in most cases has a confused look on her face b/c everyone is talking to fast for her to read their lips. So she misses most of their conversation. I can see the frustration in her face, but never really could imagine how she (or any other deaf person) must feel when around hearing people. It's really a great, great show. I am enjoying it.

I have always been fascinated w/sign language. And I have always ALWAYS wanted to learn - but never did. I taught all 3 of my children sign language when they were born. It was simple signs that we learned from a book. Such as milk, eat, more, bed, tired, etc. It was a life-saver for us. Especially with Ben. He was our first and we were really unsure and didn't know how to fully understand what he needed. So teaching him to sign - really took out all of the guessing for us. He learned it quickly and loved doing it.

After the kids could talk, the signs fell to the waist side. There was no need for them. But in the back of mind - I've always thought someday I would learn.

So, yesterday - I am at Wal-mart looking at air fresheners and such. This girl walks up next to me and is looking at them too. She picks up one that I have used and I start to talk to her (b/c that's how I am : ) and tell her how great it is, and how nice it smells, etc. I'm just talking and talking until she taps me on the shoulder and points to her ear. She was Deaf! In that very moment, I felt like a complete idiot. An idiot b/c I couldn't communicate w/her. She was young, pregnant, seemed very sweet and trying hard to communicate w/me and understand what I was saying, about air fresheners, nonetheless. I stood there for 5 minutes pointing and making motion w/my hands - that I or she had no idea what I was saying. At that moment - when all I could hear was silence - I knew how Daphne, and all other deaf people, must feel. I looked at her and just waved bye and walked away. I felt terrible, defeated. So sad that I couldn't communicate w/her.

I know, that will probably never happen to me again - b/c it's the first time it has. But it was then that I decided it was time for me to learn to Sign.

Happy Birthday to ME!

Today, a package came for ME, and what do you think it was? The greatest birthday (early, but still birthday) present EVER! 

Is the suspense killing you? 

It's the complete season of GILMORE GIRLS on DVD. It came packaged in this cute case that looks like it should contain a barbie doll and included all 7 seasons packaged so cutely; 

a book of Gilmore-isms (LOVE it!); and a Episode guide full of photos!

Here it is .... I am a HAPPY girl!

Here's a close up of the case ... It's so adorable!

 

Anyone who knows me, knows I have watched it from the day it started, and then recorded it afterwards. I watch the season over and over again. 

Yes, I love it THAT much!

I'm very excited to start watching and have a few Gilmore Girl Marathons!

Even though David didn't pick it out. I did, and ordered it on Amazon myself (love Amazon!) - it's still the perfect gift from him : ) Thank you sweet husband! Happy early Birthday to me!

Now, I must go .... I have Gilmore Girls to watch : )

Mom's are Glue!

Do you feel sticky?

If you are a mom, you do. Kids hanging on you all day. 'Mom' this and 'Mom' that.

But, even more than that, you are the glue that holds your family together. Moms set the tone, the mood in their families. When Mom's doing well, all is well. When Mom is struggling...the entire family feels the pain.

If you are feeling the weight of parental responsibility, but are not sure what fulfilling that obligation looks like, you are not alone.

Here are some simple guidelines to help your family "stick together" in greater harmony. As Mom, your leadership (stickiness) can go a long way in promoting each of these crucial areas.

• Stability

Kids need to know there are constants in their lives. In fact, the more change a child experiences in one part of his life the more stability he generally needs in another. That's why parents REALLY matter. From a child's perspective, parents are the number one constant in his young life.

• Structure

In some ways, structure is stability on a schedule. For children, the simple fact of knowing that we do everyday chores like eat dinner and ready for bedtime at the same time or in the same way each day adds to a sense of security. As a mom, you can determine the schedule that's right for your family. You don't need to be rigid with this schedule, just dependable. It is important because it shows children that their needs will be met in a constant, consistent manner day in and day out. It also shows kids that they can genuinely count on the adults who care for them.

• Mood

As mentioned before, when Mom's up, everybody's feeling better. When Mom's down, the whole house is dragging. Don't believe me? Observe your own household for a week or two. Your influence as a mom is immense. By paying attention to the words you use and being mindful of your own moods, you can effectively teach your children to live out of their wills and not their emotions.

• Vision/Purpose

Do you have a road map for your family? It's much easier to deal with the daily grind when you have a deeper purpose in mind. Think about what hopes, dreams and goals you have for yourself, your marriage and your children. Spend time together developing family goals. This can effectively lead into...

• Teamwork

The family that knows where they are going as a cohesive, unique unit gives each of their individual members a greater stake in the outcome. Everyone learns what they bring to the team and at this point Mom becomes the family cheerleader; encouraging, supporting, and keeping the family on task, heading in the right direction.

• Integrity

Kids want to believe their moms. Period. When you say what you mean and mean what you say, you wield an even greater power within your family structure. You gain respect. When you speak, family members will listen to you...deep inside, where it truly counts.

Being a mom means you are a person of great power. Never again will another human being be so attracted to your influence. Use this power wisely. Be the best mom you can be to your precious family.

_________________

by Colleen Langenfeld / Copyright (c) 2004
http://www.paintedgold.com/Kids/Kids-2.html

Decisions! Decisions!

We are going to make a change, we just aren't sure what yet. Our ultimate goal is to end up w/a pool. The summers here are completely unbearable w/kids and w/o a pool. We don't intend to stay in our current residence forever - we just aren't sure how long that will be. We are busting out of the seams at our house now.

So our choices are:
(1) to put a pool in here where we are and stay another 5 -7 years. But that means making changes to the house. It desperately needs some TLC, all the way around.
(2) or save, move in 2-3 years to a bigger house w/a pool. Which would also mean putting money into the house to prepare to move (but less.)

There's a lot to consider. The ages of the kids (I have heard at about age 12, they lose interest in swimming), where they'll be in 5-7 years (school wise), how old David and I will be, and our neighborhood that we've been in since Ben was 3 months old. The boys have lots of friends here. Although, I think as they get older, they probably tend to not hang out w/kids around them as often and maybe more w/certain friends (I guess!).

Is it better to move now while they are young (they are 9, 7 and 4), or wait till they are older? It's hard to think of them aged 5-7 years and what that will be like as far as friends, etc.

We are just uncertain of what our next step should be. We don't intend to get a pool this summer, so we have a little while to decide which direction we would like to go.

Anyone have any tips/advice? I would LOVE to hear it ....

Being prepared ...

Yesterday, there was a pretty devastating tornado in Joplin, MO. They said on the news that it was the worst deadliest tornado storm in 60 years. And so far this year - we have had 1000 tornadoes as opposed to the average of 500 we typically have by now. Unfortunately, tornado season isn't over and they are predicting more deadly tornadoes this season.

We have more storms tonight and even worse coming tomorrow night. Once I watched the coverage on TV about Joplin and got the stats - I knew I had to prepare the boys. If, there is a way to be prepared. I just didn't want us to have an emergency and have to take cover from a Tornado and everyone be freaking out. After all, we have 5 family members and 3 dogs. And everyone has to be safe!

After dinner, I decided to do a practice run through. I talked to the boys and told them the plan. Ben, of course, acted silly. And was worried about saving his series of "How to Train a Dragon" books. Only Ben : ) Will, was worried, interested and wanted to listen. And as always, Andy followed Will's lead.

After looking in the attic, to verify that the air conditioner wasn't over the boys bathroom (wouldn't want that falling on us) - we determined it was the safest spot. So, the boys and dogs piled in the bathtub. Ralf was freaked out by the storms, he was happy to get close and cuddle. Teddy was in the bathtub, but jumped out. And Kuma was laying on the floor next to the bathtub.

Will, Andy, Ben and Ralf

I don't know what it would be like if (God forbid) an actual tornado did hit (and I pray I never do). But I assume, we would get a mattress to lay on top of us all and protect from the glass mirror in the bathroom. Get the dogs on leashes. And have the boys and dogs get in the bathtub. And then, I'm sure - David and I would be laying on top of the boys and the dogs.

I was in a couple of tornadoes when I was younger. One I remember specifically - ripped the roof off of our mobile home and crumbled it in the neighbors house behind ours. The good thing is that I didn't realize what had happened - I woke up to water leaking on me. (I should ask Misty if she remembers that. She remembers everything : )

David asked me tonight what I would want to save in an emergency (tornado, fire, etc.)? It didn't take me long to know. I love my worldly possessions, but all I would worry about is my husband, my 3 sons, my 3 dogs, my wedding ring and my external hard drive. All of my boys pictures from their entire life is on my external drive and therefore makes it the most important worldly possession that I own. Of course, other important practical things would be purse, wallet, keys to car, shoes, cell phone.

I don't think there's a way to fully be prepared. You can never be prepared for the devastation that the residents of Joplin, MO are living through right now. But if I can enlighten my boys to where they at least know the steps we will take in case of a natural disaster - then I think we have better chances with a good outcome.

The Royal Wedding

How many of you (like me), have been waiting for this? I think I set my DVR a month ago to see The Royal Wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton. I guess all of the talk about it and the excitement has really gotten me into it. It's a fairytale. I set my DVR to record it, because it aired from 3am-9am. And although I wanted to see it, I didn't want to see it at 3am. I do love my sleep :)

The important part of this wedding is that it's a part of our history. This probably won't happen for another 30 years. Prince William is in line to be King of England, and then after him would be his heir - if he & Kate should have a boy.

I watched the entire thing - all 6 hours. Not all at once - but all in one day. I loved the coverage of all the pre-wedding stuff. It was great.

I thought the wedding was really beautiful and classy. I couldn't believe how calm Kate looked. It was like she was so happy to be marrying the man of her dreams and nothing else mattered. And as if she was getting married in front of 50 people instead of the entire world - such as it was. She seemed really, really happy.

We know for us girls, it's about the dress, right?. Didn't you love Kate's? I thought it was beautiful and fit her perfectly. It was timeless.

I loved when Prince Harry and Prince William were driving in the processional. The cars were really awesome with the clear glass all the way around so you could see them clearly. They were saluting, what seemed to be randomly. I still haven't figured out what they were saluting at? Maybe Flags? It was super cool and humbling.

Kate and Prince William looked so happy. She was smiling the whole time.

This is after the wedding, going to Buckingham Palace for their balcony viewing and their kiss : ) As they are along their journey - Prince William salutes and Kate bowed her head. This happened several times. I wish I knew what they were saluting at. It was very humbling.

 And the first and second kiss. It was pretty cute to watch them b/c they would nod and each other like "Okay, now?" It was really sweet.

I thought it was a great wedding and a great part of history. So happy I was able to watch it.

Congratulations to The Royal Family!

More snow?

We woke up this morning to another snow storm and FREEZING temperatures. What is the deal? It's been like 2 weeks of this weather. Very unusual for Texas. Although, this storm isn't as bad as the last one - I was awoken by loud sleet coming down. There's not much snow - but it is soooooooo cold outside. The temp is 20 degrees, w/a wind chill of 10 degrees. The wind is blowing hard. You can't stay outside long.

And so .... w/the weather this cold, the sleet, freezing temperatures .... there's no school AGAIN today. This is the 5th missed school day. The school calendar has only allotted 2 make-up days. I have heard the school can file a waiver w/the district for the kids not to have to make up the days. I hope they do that. It would be sad for school to run an extra week into summer.

I think the temperatures are supposed to be in the mid-60's this weekend. So ready for that. The kids are even tired of it. Thankfully, they didn't ask to play in it today. Of course, there's not much to play in ... but sooooo thankful. Way too cold outside.

Come on spring.....

Ever wonder why I blog?

I use to be a scrapbooker. I actually really enjoyed it. I did a book of Ben's first two years and it was great. I went on scrapbook retreats - which was really relaxing. I loved it!

And then William was born. He was pretty busy. I couldn't get my scrapbook stuff out w/o having to pick it up when I was done. And that was even if he'd let me scrap in the first place. It became very tough.... So - I went years w/o doing anything. Felt very guilty about it, but just didn't have time or space to scrap anymore.

I didn't really know about blogging at that point. David knew about my frustration and sadness about not being able to scrap. So he started this blog for me on June 3, 2008. He entered the first post. Which you can see here: http://wilke-family.blogspot.com/2008/06/post-number-one-its-great-to-be-here.html.

I do plan to go back to the beginning of our little family and update it here on this blog. My hope is to create a digital scrapbook for my boys. I haven't completed a year yet. I need to go back and make sure that I haven't left anything important out. And once I do that, I will print yearly books from this blog. It will be a book of our life and stories during that year. I will print 4 books of each year. One for me and David, and for each of the boys. I will place the books in their memory box that I have for each of them. And when they are grown and have their own families - they will be able to share their life, their journey w/their own family.

As an adult, I have hardly any pictures from my childhood and my past. And we all know, as you get older - your memory starts to fade and you forget. I don't want to forget and I want my boys to remember .... that's why I blog!

Crazy Winter Week ....

We have had a really crazy week here with the weather for Texas. It has been ice and now snow all week long. The kids have been home from school b/c school has been canceled all week. The roads are bad so we can't get out and go anywhere. Everyone is getting cabin fever ....

Here's our week at a glance:

Monday: David had Jury Duty. Ben and Will stayed home from school due to strep (from which Ben was recovering from 104 temperatures). They all 3, have been sick all weekend. Andy went to school - although I probably should of kept him home. He wasn't quite 100%, but no fever.

Monday night: Arctic blast blew in from somewhere and landed a sheet of ice all over the roads. The sleet woke me up in the middle of the night. And was so loud that I had a hard time sleeping. Thanks for that : )

Tuesday: Then the sleet was followed by the power going on and off early in the morning. B/c of the below freezing temperatures, the generators were overloaded. So we had rolling blackouts all day long. They would last 15-45 minutes and happen every hour or 2.

So, with that being said .... School canceled due to inclement weather and rolling blackouts. Which means below freezing temperatures and icy roads, and no electricity at spurts of time. Very nice! David had Jury duty, but the courts were closed due to the ice. So he's happy about that.

So ... no school, freezing weather outside, and no electricity. Really? Is this a joke? Also not good for my husband who works from home. No electricity = no Internet and no work.

Wednesday: Still freezing temperatures and ice. No school AGAIN! Really?? And also since the schools are closed - so are the courts. No Jury Duty for David! They actually canceled Jury Duty for David, and told him he served his time and that they would start over and call in new Jurors. Yea for something going right!

Thursday: Still freezing temperatures. I think the roads are better. But AGAIN, school is Canceled. Really? This time I don't quite understand, but whatever. We all slept in till 11am, even Kuma (thank you, moochie!). So that was fantastic.

Thursday night: Snow moving in from that huge snow storm in the North. Couldn't they keep it to themselves? We are TEXANS we don't know how to properly deal w/snow and ice. Our gloves are thin, our hats are thin, our shoes are flip-flops. They aren't snow material. Our whole city shuts down - LITERALLY!

Friday: Woke up to Snow covering everything .... which is on top of the sheet of ice that blew in on Tuesday. Nice Texas weather, huh? So ... yes, you guessed it. NO SCHOOL ... AGAIN!!!!!!!!!! This has got to be God's way of punishing stay at home mom's. Or maybe just me for my behavior as a child. I don't know ... but come on. Enough is Enough!

So all day I bundled kids up, played in the snow, unbundled kids, cleaned up piles of wet clothes, rebundled kids since they were frozen, and then .... bundled kids up, played in the snow, unbundled kids, cleaned up pile of wet clothes,rebundled kids since they were frozen ..... yeah - i think you get the picture.

Saturday (tomorrow): Ben has a basketball game. Hopefully the roads are clear and we can get outside. I am guessing games will be canceled - but maybe not.

Sunday: My cousin, Monica and her daughter, Brittany are coming to visit. I am so excited to see them. Brittany is being looked at by DBU for Volleyball. They are staying here w/us. So excited to hang w/my cousins : )

And what's great is ... This weekend is Super Bowl XLV. The first year for it to ever be here in Texas and the city is covered in ice and snow. It's made all the Super Bowl festivities difficult b/c of all the low temperatures, ice and snow. I am not a big football fan ... well, not at all - actually. However, in honor of my great friend, Cristi Roach & her family (who are from Wisconsin), I do semi-care about the Green Bay Packers. So ..... Go Pack Go! Also ....this is history and I know my boys will care about football b/c they will be men one day (LOL!), and that's what men do (care about football and super bowl's). So I guess this will be something they remember - for sure. Super Bowl XLV covered in Snow and ICE!

And on that note ... come on, spring! Remind us why we live in Texas!

Room switching...

I think we may be doing a little room switching/combining again. It's not completely decided, but we are thinking about it. Will does not like to sleep alone, and Andy doesn't either. Both start/end up in our bed at night. So our thought is to put Will and Andy together in hopes that that will help our problem. Then use the extra room as a media room for the boys - which we desperately need. A place for all the electronics and a place where they can go to relax.

So .... I will talk to the boys when they get home. Get their thoughts and go from there. Keep your fingers crossed....

Christmas Card 2010

This year I had a great idea of what I wanted to do for our card. Well - Actually it was David's idea and then I tweaked it to what I wanted. I have to give him some credit : )

We (and when I say we, I mean David....) set up the lights to do a "practice" run. We soon realized that this wasn't going to work and threw in the towel.

So - one day after school I picked the boys up from school and we drove around until I landed at Woodbridge golf course. I got the kids out and tried to get them to sit still so I can get a few photos. Let me tell you .... it was NOT fun! They complained and whined the entire time. I threatened that Santa may not come if I couldn't get my photos. Mean? Yes! But I was desperate. After all - it's only a week from Christmas and I haven't got my Christmas card done. You think, after ALL the things I do for them, they could give me this one thing.... 5 minutes to sit still and smile, but NOOOOOOOOOO!

Ben ...... "I hate wearing jeans. Why can't I wear sweats?"

Andy .... "This sweater is itchy."

Will ..... "It's cold, I'm tired."

Next year - maybe I'll do something different. I'll publish the outtakes of my photos b/c I have to work way less hard for those. I get those pretty easy. Or maybe I'll start in January working on my card and do something of the whole year. I love sending out cards (as I love getting them) .... but this last minute stuff is not fun - for them or me.

I finally got some photos of them, made my card and sent it off. Stay tuned .... it's coming!

Teachers Gifts for Christmas!

Every year for Christmas and the End of the Year I do teacher gifts. They work so hard, that I feel a small token to show them how much we appreciate them is due them.

For Ben, Will & Andy's immediate teachers I did bookmarks from Brighton. Great, great gift and a great price. I was really pleased with them. And then for their other teachers (music, art, library, gym, etc.) - I did special chocolates or baking goods. Very Yummy and Fun!

I had fun making labels w/their picture on them and decorating the bags really pretty : )

The boys are so excited to give their teachers their special gifts and play "Santa's Elf."

We'll hand out our special gifts at the Christmas Parties tomorrow.

I also made their class friends suckers w/these suckers covers on them (Santa, Reindeer, Elf). The kids always love them. They are from Oriental Trading and SOOOOO cute!

David

I am thankful for a man who gets me - who really gets me. He loves me the way I need to be loved, and he protects me the way I need to feel safe, and he cherishes me so I feel honored. But mostly - he knows when I am at the point where I need to be rescued. He doesn't question - he just steps in and helps. And for that I am grateful. I don't say it enough - but I am truly thankful to have the greatest man I know, as my husband!

I love you, David! Thank you for all the things you do w/o knowing you are doing them.

Load of CANDY!

We did the trick-or-treating and boy was that fun. The boys LOVED it! Now ..... we are left w/buckets and buckets of candy. What to do with it? Our school is having a carnival this weekend and they are taking candy donations. So - we'll give it to them. But how do we get the boys to relinguish all that candy? It's simple .... well - at least I hope it is.

I told the boys they could each pick 20 pieces of candy to keep. What's magic about 20? I don't know. Maybe b/c I, myself, can eat 5 in one sitting. Ha! Anyways ... so - they pick 20 pieces of candy they want to keep and then they give the rest of it in trade for a treat. This treat can be anything w/a $20 limit.

I told the boys about my deal. Ben was totally into it. After trick-or-treating - he went straight to his room, counted out 20 pieces and gave me the rest. Now - that's my boy! Luckily for him he isn't a candy junkie. What does he want as his treat? Dragon Ball-Z DS Game. The best $20 I ever spent.

Will was reluctant to agree at first. Candy is definitely is drug of choice (sorry for the comparison - couldn't think of anything else). He finally agreed though. He counted out 20, gave me the rest and asked if I would keep it around if he wanted some later. I explained to him that wasn't how the deal worked. He agreed - finally : ) His treat: A Spiderman DS Game. 2 down .... 1 more to go!

Andy isn't quite on board. Although these days he's obsessed with Buzz Lightyear. So - my plan is to take him to the toy section at Target and show him all the cool Buzz Lightyear toys. Dirty trick, I know. But whatever works, right? And I bet soon he will be on board......

So .... hopefully in a few days - I will have all this extra candy out of my house. I love candy too much to have it here.

I am proud of myself for such a great idea to get rid of the candy (patting myself on the back now). Even David (who isn't much into spending money) .... thought it was a good idea - to get rid of the candy. It's either a $20 treat, or a $200 trip to the dentist. Take your pick!

Getting Older

Okay - let's be honest. Who is freaked out about getting Older? If you haven't reached 35 - probably not quite yet. But the minute you hit 35 - the worry comes.

I turned 36 this year and I can't even believe it. Just like I thought my 20 year old cat would live forever, I thought I would never turn 35. I thought I would be in my 20's forever. Well, turns out - forever is alot shorter than I thought.

So today after I dropped off Ben and Will at school, I started running some numbers in my head:

Hypothetically .....

If Ben gets married and has his first child at 25: my age will be 53, add 10 years and that's David's age - 63.
If Will gets married and has his first child at 25: my age will be 55, add 10 years and that's David's age - 65.

and here's the kicker....

If Andy gets married and has his first child at 25: my age will be 58, that's right .... add 10 years and David is .... 68.

If you didn't have to worry about the whole 'getting older' business, I would tell my boys to wait till they are 30 to get married and 35 to have kids. Because really - we all know in most cases, people who get married young - get a divorce and those that marry later, typically stay married. This isn't always the case - but it's been true in my research. Not to mention, you hope at 30 and 35 they have more job and life stability.

So, if Andy has his first child at age 25 - David will be almost 70. Wow! People say 70 is still young. But holy cow - really? At 70 - can you get on the floor and wrestle and play? I want he and I to be ACTIVE with our grandkids.

So - that brings me back to what age should my kids get married (pretending like I have control :) ... I am now thinking it should be young - like 22. I would have never wanted to get married that young - and it's not what I really recommend, but if they don't - I may not be around for my grandkids - much less enjoy them. And I really want grandkids.

And what if it doesn't all happen at age 25 for them??? What then? Then we are REALLY old!

I am now thinking David and I should of gotten married when we met at age 20 & 30 and had kids then. That would have been a much better scenario (age wise)......

Okay - I am done rambling ..... It's time for some changes....

Surgery for me!?

It all started a few weeks ago on a Sunday. I started having some gastric issues. I didn't quite understand why I wasn't feeling well or why I was having this problem, but I just wrote it off and went on about life. 4 days later - I had (what I know now), was my first gallbladder attack. And then my second, and then the third. The day after my 3rd gallbladder attack (which lasted 5 hours of me being bent over on the floor in a cradle position), I had some chest pains that concerned me. I had had chest pains before - but they normally went away w/in a few minutes. This lingered for several hours. I finally decided I should go to the ER .... I was afraid maybe I was having a heart attack. The ER doctors checked me over and said "we'll check your heart, but it sounds like your gallbladder." To make a long story short .... after leaving the ER, scheduling a HIDA Scan to determine if it was my gallbladder - it was in fact my gallbladder. For 2 weeks I was on a Gallbladder diet so that I could control the attacks. I did very well at controlling them ... even lost 12 pounds. Yea me! The surgery was scheduled for Thursday, September 16.

The morning of the 16th, David and I took the boys to school and went on to the hospital. I was delighted to find out that one of my childhood friends, Shannon, was my nurse. Total coincidence - but I was thrilled. I would be completely knocked out for the surgery. The surgery went well. It was my first time to have anesthesia - so I was alittle scared about that. But it was fine! I didn't get sick at all - which I was thrilled about.

This is me before surgery. Cute, huh?

Today, 4 days later - I have no recollection of most of the events that happened that Thursday and even some of Friday. It's weird how that anesthesia works. But I feel better. My pain is starting to lessen and I am somewhat starting to feel normal.

I am thankful for my awesome husband, the wonderful surgical center, my doctor and the nurses (especially my great friend, Shannon) - who took great care of me. I hope soon I will be 100% and be back to my duties as wife, mother and the occasional photographer.

And now for the first time in 36 years - I will have something to add on my medical history ..... exciting!