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Today was the Marathon of Knowledge. I volunteered all day reading questions to all the different grades and I have to tell you...some of those questions were not easy. 4th Grade question: What are the 3 branches of Government? I mean there are more, but honestly, I can't remember them all because of all the questions that I asked today. In between reading, I would go to Kalli's classroom and help out there. At the end of the day the teacher really appreciated my being there because the kids were being a little obnoxious. Oh who am I kidding, a few of the kids were being complete brats. Because of previous misbehavior the kids had 7 minutes to serve. They have to put their heads down and be quiet during this time instead of having play time. Well, I spent the entire rest of the day telling kids to put their head down and to sit down and to be quiet. Comes down to the kids only took about 1 minute of time off because of much fooling around went on.

There is one boy, J, who is really a lot of....work. I ended up pulling him out into the hall and he was fooling around out there too and slid himself down onto the floor while I was trying to talk to him. I said, "excuse me! I won't let my own kids misbehave and be this disrespectful and definitely won't let someone else's child."

In talking with the teacher later, we are pretty sure J has ADHD, however his dad won't let him be tested. In other words, his dad is keeping him from possibly getting treated. I'm no doctor, but if people were questioning whether your child could have ADHD, wouldn't you wanted him or her tested? Don't get me wrong...I don't think all kids have ADHD, some are just brats. However, look into it. If the doctor suggests meds then try them. See if they help. If not...at least you tried. Parents are so worried about this stigma and really...come on. Isn't it more important that your child is happy and stays out of trouble?

So all in all it was a very fun day. Somewhat.

And I'm actually getting somewhat tired so I'm going to attempt to get some sleep tonight.

Oh...and I'm sure some of you are wondering how Cassie and Kalli did on their Marathon of Knowledge question. Well...they both answered every question correctly. All 100 questions. And then all the bonus questions that they had. To say that I'm proud is an understatement. A huge understatement.

Until tomorrow. g'nite.

April 19, 2010

Computers are a pain, sometimes. Okay...maybe even more then sometimes.

Right now I want to kick my desktop computer. For some unknown reason it won't load internet pages. It is connected to the internet, but that is it. It's like it is connected but can't fully communicate with the internet or something. I don't know...all I do know is it is flippin' annoying.

So, at the moment I'm using the laptop and giving my computer the silent treatment. That'll teach it!
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I'm so proud of Cassie. Today I took the girls to school as I was going to keep Cassie home this morning because she had an appointment, but decided to sent her for that hour and then pick her up. Upon getting in the car, I realized that we didn't have her wheelchair. Instead, her chair was in Andy's car. At his work. On the west side of town. UGH!

I dropped the girls at school, came home to take a quick shower, ran across town to get chair, came back across town to the school, and then took Cassie to her appointment. I asked her if she wanted to try without the wheelchair for the day or if she wanted it and she said that she wanted to go without it. I was so impressed that she made the decision to try without it. And I have to say that when she came home today and asked if she could take the chair tomorrow because she has gym, but on Wednesday she doesn't want to take it again, I could have burst with pride. She is making these decisions on her own and whether she knows it all she is becoming more independence and building up those muscles and therefore her endurance. Have I mentioned how proud of her I am? I kinda want to come up with some sort of reward for her doing this on her own, but I don't know what I would do.

She has grown up so much in the past few weeks that I find myself looking at her in awe. Where did my baby go? And who is this pre-teen?
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On Wednesday, the 21st, Cassie and Kalli will be having their Marathon of Knowledge at school. This is a major fundraiser for the school and consists of the kids each memorizing 100 grade appropriate questions. The girls work on getting donations that are collected after the marathon day. As this is our first year doing this, we've really sucked at the getting donations part. Therefore, "Hi...Cassie and Kalli are participating in a Marathon of Knowledge this year where they help to raise money for the school by increasing their knowledge by memorizing 100 questions. Would you care to donate anything? You can either contribute a flat amount or by how many questions the girls get correct. Money is not collected until after Wednesday but is due by April 30th." Let me know if you are interested in donating, but have not done so. This happens to be the largest fund raiser for the school so it is fun. All the kids in the school receive a t-shirt and get to eat in their classrooms or, if weather permits, outside.

I will be spending Marathon day at the school quizzing the kids. Sound like fun?? Yeah, I get breaks as they are needed though and food is provided, so it isn't so rough. :)
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Update on Cassie's birthday party: As of this moment I have 2 calls that have said they will be here for both parts. Some of the kids told Cassie they are coming, but I don't have a phone call verifying that yet. And as of today, absolutely no one has said that they can't make it. There is one girl that Cassie said can't stay over but will be here for the makeover, but at this point I'm going to end up with a full house on my end. Anyone wanna come spend the night and help me stay sane? As of now, Andy's plan is to play Xbox all night and ignore the fact that his home has been taken over by preteen girls. Honestly, I can't blame him. I am thinking about doing the same thing.

You said you wanted me to post more...

I have a few problems. And I'm coming to you, my adoring fans...er...fan, for your input. If not....hey, I should be able to at least make you laugh...on my behalf of course. Now where to start.

Let's start off with something more simple. Last night I went in for a Sleep Study to attempt to find out why on Earth it is that I'm so unbelievably exhausted. Ya know...like the fact that I can't keep my eyes from wanting to shut and stay shut when driving a little distance. For some reason other drivers don't care for it when you try to drive with your eyes shut. Also: people within the vehicle you are driving don't really like it also. It makes them nervous. Darn pansies.

So I went for my study and I slept. I woke up a few times to move some, and it did take me a while to fall asleep. HELLO...not the easiest to fall asleep when you are this wired.

This morning they woke me (side note: one will wake faster and be more alert then normal when being waken by a stranger in your not-normal setting. Good Morning Nurse Lady!) and told me that I have Sleep Apnea and will have to come back another night to sleep with a CPAP on to find out what pressure works for me. Yeah...that was a lot of words to get the idea across that I will be going back to sleep in not-my-bed at not-my-home with a scuba diving type mask on forcing air into me. (And I'm now wondering why is it no one has ever inflated and floated away while hooked up to a CPAP...I'm imagining a cartoon of someone floating against the ceiling with the tubing tethering them to the machine. Spouse in the room, looking up..."uh...honey?")

But I digress. All this is to say that I do have Sleep Apnea (in the first 1/2 of my study I stopped breathing every 9 minutes, on average. Cool, eh? Also: Never before did I study for sleeping. Maybe that is why babies don't sleep through the night at first...they are studying how to. Yeah yeah...bad humor. It's 11:48 at night, give me a break.) In a couple weeks I will go back and then work on getting my own CPAP for here at home. I'm hoping to then dream of scuba diving in some beautiful reef and waking up refreshed. Hey, a girl can hope.

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I'm going to once again try to prove that I'm either completely crazy or an awesome mom. At the end of this month I have invited all 11, you read that right...eleven, girls from Cassie's class to come to Cassie's VERY LATE birthday party.

A friend of mine, who is actually a Mary Kaye consultant, and I will be giving the girls mini facials and teaching them a little about skin care. The girls will then be able to put a little age appropriate make up on (aka lip gloss and light shimmering eye shadow) Yup...keeping things age appropriate...no making these girls look like hoochies here. I've also asked my almost sister-in-law to come help do mini-manicures too. Alright, so we are just painting nails...I can make believe if the kids can.

Then, just to test my sanity, I've invited all 11 of these girls to spend the night here. At my home. Where I will be.

Andy has already told me he doesn't care what I do because he will be playing his Xbox all night. That is 'man' for "you're on your own toots!" I figure there is a very low chance that all the girls will be able to come and stay over anyway. Of course, with my luck...

Please stay open that night if I need to be rescued. Thank you :)
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I love Kalli. Really I do. She is so unbelievably sweet. She is gorgeous and very smart. She is very attached to me...maybe too much at times, but that is ok. She is my baby after all.

Kalli is also hilarious. I mean shaking your head laughing hilarious, at times. Most of the time she doesn't even try to be funny. She is just showing you something or telling you something and after you laugh she will blush and try to hide some.

Tonight, I'm sitting with Cassie, checking her teeth after she brushes them and Kalli comes in by us ready for bed (in long shirt) and says, "I can give myself a wedgie. Look...". And then she does. She pulls up on her underwear until it is seated just inside her seat and then she says proudly, "see...".

Now I'm not sure, but when did this become a talent? I just laughed and shook my head and said wow. Cassie looked at me as if to say that her sister was nuts and continued with her teeth. I told Kalli to go show her daddy what she could do and she blushed and hid. I only wish these were the moments that I could get on video because seriously...this is blackmail material in the making!!
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I don't know what to do about this next one. The girls had 'Spring Pictures' at school a few weeks ago. I think that it is silly that they are now taking pictures two times a year and trying to get parents to buy more. I mean hello, 1 sheet (8x10, 2 3x5s, OR a sheet of wallets) is $12. RIDICULOUS!

Well, that is until the pictures came home. See, they send the pics home, you keep what you want, send back any you don't want, and any money for those you've kept. The pictures that came home of my children are breath-taking. I think that they are beautiful. And I'm going to have a very hard time sending them back.


See what I mean?? And then I put the girls' beginning of the year next to the recent ones and...WOW! They have changed so much in just 6 months. Where did my little girls go??

Agreed? I just look at those pictures and am stunned. There are no words....
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Okay, a couple last pictures of things. No long story to go along with them really, I just liked them so there you go :)

Brady wanted to be carried the other day so I put him front facing in the carrier I have. He loved it and I got things done.

I brought some fake flowers from the dollar store the other day to make a little seasonal bouquet here at home. Here is what I made up. Nothing super, but I like it. And it adds color to my kitchen. Besides....they make me smile when I am doing dishes.

Kids

KIDS

That word right there says so much and can be said in so many tones that it leaves a lot for interpretation.

When my girls were were little they were such little bundles of joy. I watched them sleep, held them while they slept just so that I could be close to them and smell their wonderful baby scent, I pondered how it is that they came from two tiny cells and somehow transformed into this little human...this baby that somehow I loved more then my life itself. I'd have given anything to keep my baby safe. Their first smiles, giggles, and all the ones that came after filled my heart until I thought it would burst. Kids....

When they became toddlers (each of them in their own time) I found myself saying "no" more then I ever thought a person could possibly say it in one day. I also found myself saying things that I never thought a person would say, never mind that it was it was me that was saying it. "Don't lick the window", "Stop sitting on your sister's face", "No banging your head on the wall" are just several of the phrases that passed through my lips. Why is it that my children liked licking smooth surfaces? I can't count the number of times I told them not to lick something. And then all the times I told them "no touching", moved them away from things, and then watched as they looked at me with defiance in their eyes and went back and did it again. I should have seen it as a sign, but they were my precious angels. Kids.....

When they got to 4-K and Kindergarten (As Kalli is right now) I find myself looking at them wondering where the baby went. They are beginning to get a social life and the fact that Kalli knows our number by heart is a bad thing. She has given it out to friends that actually call her. She is getting calls and is talking to her friends like she is a teen. Only not as long (thankfully). This seems to be an age that kids become wonderful helpers...at least my kids. They want to help more and while helping it gives them that chance to ask a million questions. Now, mind you, Kalli hasn't stopped talking since the moment that she started. However now that she reading she wants to know why things say what they say. She gives me a full report of what went on in the classroom that day. Down to who got in trouble and for what. She watches Brady and Kaitlynn even when I'm right there and makes sure the cats stay out of trouble. She is my informer. You want to know anything?? She knows it. She listens to everything people say, but only responds or lets you know she is listening when it is to her benefit. At this age Cassie had her first little crush and for Kalli it is the same. Kalli has informed me who she is going to marry, but that she isn't going to start dating him until they are in High School. Kids!

Then we move onto Cassie's age....9. At nine, at least for Cassie, they really start to work on their teenage angst. Cassie is more sure of herself then last year or the year before, but at the same time she is more unsure. She is still Miss Social Butterfly at school but still stays out of trouble. However, her attitude has needed some adjusting and still needs more. She has started the one word answers to questions. She rolls her eyes at me from time to time...which by the way only makes me want to knock her head off her shoulders while every hair on the back of my neck stands on end. She is becoming a teen before my eyes, and in my opinion, at too young of an age. She has mood swings...going from laughing to crying and back again. Sometimes even laughing at nothing and not being able to stop. I find myself several times stepping back and waiting for her head to spin around Exorcist style. I love the girl, yet I'm not sure we are both going to make it through her teen years.

Cassie is testing her limits. She is trying things she doesn't normally do and seeing what happens. And due to things like this she has found herself grounded for the first time. For a week. From her DSI. Fortunately for me, she knows that she was at wrong and didn't argue or fight it at all.

Cassie is becoming increasingly more frustrated at things. Tonight it took us almost an hour to complete her homework. A one page, single sided, math worksheet. Mind you that math is her hardest subject, but tonight was ridiculous. There was crying and yelling and pulling out of hair...and that was just what I did. Ok...I didn't really cry, but I wanted to. I know that everyone learns differently and I'm really trying to find a way to teach Cassie things that works for her to make it click, but so far I'm failing terribly. The problems were simple multiplication (which she is having trouble memorizing) and the answers were right there in front of her, but she still wasn't getting it. I would coax her through it until she saw it and then we'd move onto the next question. And it was the same thing. It was like she had no short term memory whatsoever. I seriously put my head in my hands and laughed a little too hysterically.

Then at bedtime she started crying because she wanted to cuddle with me. She has become increasingly cuddly and needing of me lately. She just wants to be held and reminded that she is loved, important, and that she is safe. I know she has anxieties (she actually asked if we locked the doors the other night) but my heart almost is breaking because I'm not sure what is going on inside of that head. I hold her and at times she starts crying, not even knowing, herself, why she is crying. ....kids

For me, also, I watch other people's children. I find myself falling more and more in love with these little people that don't really truly belong to me. (though as I do become more attached and watch these little ones grow I like to think that a little piece of them is mine. I teach them, I love them, kiss and hug them as much as possible, and as needed...am a second mom for them.) I find myself willing to jump in front of a bus to save them. Watching them sleep and holding them longer then I should when they are sleeping just to smell their scent. I feel like I'm back at the beginning only I don't get to keep these little ones. The little ones will have me pulling at my hair as they grow as well. (as Kaitlynn already has me at sometimes....toddlers!) Kids.

And then it comes back to the mom...as everything always does. I love my kids with every molecule of my being. Yet they make my emotions go from pulling at my hair and wanting to run down the road screaming, all the way to crying silently because I don't know what to do to make them better. I have to say now that I don't think that I was informed of all this when I signed on to be a mom. It may have been in the fine print, but who really reads that anyway.

Kids!

Who? What? Where?

It's Tuesday again.

Tuesday?

How on Earth is that even possible? In complete seriousness, where does time go? I mean last week flew by without me even realizing it. I find myself every day looking at my planner several times to make sure I am heading where I am suppose to head. Who am I watching tomorrow and today? What time are they coming? Do I have any appointments? Am I sure I don't have any appointments? Does my mom need me to do anything? Am I sure? Hey mom...do you need me this week?

I write down things, but then days look so full that I wonder if something got missed. And what is the date again? What was I suppose to do today? Cleaning? What is that? Other then the thing that I seem to be constantly doing, yet never seems completed. Example...last night I put the last load of clothes into the washer and was mentally giving myself a high five when Kalli came down with her clothes that she had worn that day. How defeating.

Another example happens to be the downfall of having so many children around...I pick up toys and vacuum, less then 2 minutes later toys are scattered everywhere. I'm working on getting the basement baby/toddler proof so that we can play down there, get toys out of my living room, and not worry about people walking in and wondering why a toy store vomited all over the place.

And then we get to the weekend and that seems to have vanished before it even started. I'm trying to be everywhere and it just isn't working. I'm only one person. Don't get me wrong...I love helping everyone and being there for people, but I feel pulled in several directions and again, I'm only one person. I find myself feeling like I'm disappointing people and letting them down. I can't get enough done in two days and spend the time with people that I'd like to. Now let's add to that situation the fact that Andy and I would like to start spending Sundays home just the 4 of us and I find myself wanting to pull hair out. I can't be home and also getting things done with other people. Again, don't get me wrong. I love helping everyone and I like how it feels to help people who ask for my help, I'm just feeling very torn because when I help one person others are feeling neglected.

My example...this weekend my almost-sister-in-law, Kelli, wanted my help in cleaning up her and my brother's areas. They are getting a new puppy this next weekend as long as everything goes as planned and Kelli was feeling stressed with the mess and the fact that she is so busy. (the girl works a regular job, an internship, has school, and homework...talk about having no time and feeling stressed and/or torn) I helped with the cleaning and straightening. I got to spend time with her bonding over garbage, recycling, and straightening and we got a lot done. However, in the meantime my dad wants my help organizing in the basement, I didn't get to spend much time with my mom at all, and my husband just wanted to go home. So I helped one person, but I feel like I disappointed everyone else. It is a no win situation. Anyone figure out how to clone yourself yet? Or be in multiple places at a time? I mean, I'm a good multi-tasker, but even I'm not that good.

Anyway, I'm done whining and complaining. For now :)
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This past Friday the girls' school had a family night at a local roller rink. I was unsure of how the girls would do or I should say Kalli because she isn't so good at roller skates. Okay, she isn't good at all. The only place she has practiced is on the carpet here at home. However, she got skates for Christmas so that she can practice for her first job that she wants at Sonic being a carhop on skates.

So I was a little nervous knowing how slippery skates can be on rink floors. However, Auntie Becky to the rescue! Becky came along to aide in skating as I wasn't sure if I was going to get into skates. I mean, hello....if I got broken who would take care of me, the girls, the kids I take care of, and my parents since my mom is down to one leg? When I brought this up to Andy his words were, "we'd be screwed!" And there was no chance of Andy skating because he is the only one bringing cash into the household. We need him able to work.

The girls were ecstatic about skating, though Cassie was wheeling around the rink. At times she was pulling people that were on skates and at others she was being pushed by some of her friends on skates. I even got brave and put on skates.

Cassie posing for a picture before rushing off to find her friends again.

I used to skate all the time and was a pro. Now I'm old...or at least older. And afraid of falling and the possibility of breaking something. I actually did quite well...while holding onto Cassie's wheel chair that is. I pushed her so it isn't like she pulled me. And while holding on to the chair it was just like old times. I could skate awesome, do some tight circles with feet turned out, and felt like it wasn't years since I've been skating. Note: I did skate some at the end without holding onto Cassie's chair and I didn't fall once. Yeah me!

This is the kind of picture you get in the dark when Cassie is going past you at the rink.

Kalli made her way slowly around the outside of the rink with Becky several times, and with me a couple times. By the end she was gaining confidence and was going a little without holding onto anyone. I was impressed. So much so, that we are looking at going skating to open skates from time to time depending on how often they are and how much they cost.

Becky helping Kalli. THANK YOU BECKY!!

Also important to note...I didn't hurt the next day at all. Yeah muscles.

Cassie and Kalli getting set up in the group photo at the end of the night.

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I'm working on posts. I've started a couple, but haven't gotten around to finish them. Wanna know why? Please see: Paula has too many things going on in her life.

Recap

Editors Note: This post is 2073 words long. Holy Crumpets! Grab a snack, a beverage, and enjoy!!
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Anyone else feel like we've been running a marathon lately? I sure do.

This past few weeks it is like I've been going and going. It is finally starting to catch up though, and I find myself having to take it slower and relax some. Fortunately, this next week we have nothing going on...with the exception of Andy having to work some. The girls are off of school and my week is pretty free. It'll be a nice week to get caught up on things and maybe get a little organized. You know, like a find homes for all the new things that the girls got for Christmas.

Now where to start on getting you caught up? It's been a while, I know.

On the 18th of this month the girls had their Christmas Concerts at school. Cassie's (2nd and 3rd grades) was from 12-12:45. Kalli's (Kindergarten and 1st grade) was 2-2:45. I spent the morning volunteering in the library at school, and then met up with my mom, brother, and Andy to watch Cassie's concert. She did absolutely wonderful and the most touching part was when one of her classmates, who has been learning to play guitar, played with his dad and accompanied the group as they sang "Silent Night". Her group also sang...Snow Angels; Merrily, Merrily, Merrily, Merrily; Happy Holidays; Christmas Bells; and The Ride of the One Horse Open Sleigh.

After her part of the concert, Andy Tony and I went to lunch while my mom went to pick my dad from work. We then all met back at the school for Kalli's concert. Her group sang African Noel; S-A-N-T-A; The Mitten Song; In the Toy Shop; Jingle Jive; and Great Big Star. She did a wonderful job and I was surprised how well all the kids did with all families there. After Kalli's concert Andy and I said goodbye to my parents and Tony and headed to the library so that I could help out a little more until the girls' day was done and we could bring them home.

During the time in between things I found a moment to talk with the music teacher. Mind you, with all the volunteering I do at the school, all the teachers and staff know me pretty well, and I let her know how much I loved that she had brought Christmas back into the school concert. At the school the girls were at last year it was a "winter" concert. This year was a concert held during the winter, yet it was a Christmas concert.

The teacher, Ms. V, informed me that when she first started at this school she went out on a limb and tried Christmas music. At the end of the first concert, an elderly gentleman came to her with tears in his eyes and personally thanked her for putting Christmas back in the concert. From that point on she has continued and has gotten a lot of positive responses. I love that she pushed the limit that little bit and that it worked out. Winter concerts are nice, but a Christmas concert is just that little bit more special and helps get the kids in the spirit and excited about the holiday.
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On the last day of school before winter break the girls each had a Christmas party in their individual classrooms and I was able to help out in Kalli's classroom. Nothing like sugaring up kids before sending them home. Except...wait...one of those kids are mine. Damn!

I went around the school handing out gifts (homemade hot chocolate) to all the teachers that work directly with my girls, the librarian, the principal, and then left a large container with a note in the teachers' lounge. The last stop was with the principal and I talked with her briefly before the school day was done.

When I first signed the girls up at this new school this past summer I was quite anxious about the change. For Kalli she would be just starting Kindergarten there. No big deal. However, for Cassie, she would be starting 3rd grade. She was established at her old school. All the kids knew about her "disability" and that it was no big deal. At the new school, would the kids be so understanding? Would she have friends? I should have just looked at my little girl and known that it is impossible not to love her.

I thanked the principal (Ms. S) for working with us and for having such a wonderful school. I don't think principals get the credit due for the work they have to do....working with troubled children, parents that don't care or are difficult, and trying to keep track of (in the case of our school...400-some kids) It can't be easy. And yet the girls' school and the children that go there seem pretty tight-knit and accepting. Ms. S informed me that she is also impressed with how well the other children accepted Cassie. She said that it is like they don't even see that she is a little different. I personally, love it.

Ms. S also thanked me for being such a large part of the school...I volunteer any free days in the kindergarten classroom and library. (so much actually that they are trying to get me to apply for a few entry type jobs) I enjoy being appreciated. I've already told them they will either get sick of seeing me or just hire me on. And after the girls' concert I introduced my parents, brother, and Andy to Ms. S and she put her arm around me and said that I was the newest staff member. Maybe I have an in for when the girls are grown and I do need a job?? For now though I will volunteer, maybe sub for the noon monitors when they aren't available (if I get that application in), and enjoy getting my baby fixes through other peoples' children. :)
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Because we are procrastinators, professional procrastinators in fact, we finally took the girls to see Santa last weekend. You know...the weekend before Christmas. Good thing Santa listens close and has the elves working 24/7 this time of the year. The girls visited and I got a few pictures. I was quite impressed with Santa as when he saw Cassie in her wheelchair he got out of his chair and knelt down to talk with her and get pictures with the girls. It is the little things like this that just make me smile. He didn't need to...she could have transferred to him, or just sat next to him in her chair, but he went the extra step to get more down to her level. I appreciated it. Such a good Santa...he is on my good list.

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Christmas Eve morning we headed to breakfast like we do every year to celebrate Cassie's birthday. Because her birthday is Christmas Eve we have a breakfast which is hers and she gets one birthday gift from grandma. From there things become Christmas. We then celebrate her birthday in January on a day that we pick just for her.

This year when we headed to breakfast she had one less tooth to eat with. The day before, she had told me that one of her teeth was bothering her (aka: it is loose, I have issues with textures especailly in my mouth....therefore....please look, but DO NOT touch, determine if it is loose enough, and pull it. Without moving it. She likes to keep things interesting. I did get it out though as it was only connected by like 1 thread. Not any of Cassie's doing though. She won't wiggle teeth. They have to be pushed out by the next tooth. Because otherwise, they move. And we don't like things moving in our mouth. gulp.

After breakfast, Becky and Brady (the now 3 week old little sir fabulous) came to exchange gifts with the girls and to visit at my parent's. The girls are completely enamored with their new little cousin. Even Kalli likes him. Well, until he starts to move around more and following her. Then all bets are off. This picture is from a few days earlier when the girls were sitting together to hold him. Cassie is going to be such a super babysitter some day and a good mommy. She adores babies and young children that aren't her sister.

She does like her sister, but I've been informed that her sister is annoying sometimes and talks too much. All I can say is AMEN sister! No...really though, I used to feel pretty much the same way about Cassie. I used to ask her speech therapist if now that we got her to talk could we now get her to stop. Please.

I have hope that someday Kalli too will slow down the talking some, but I'm not holding my breath.
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Later in the day on Christmas Eve we opened gifts from everyone. (my parents, brother-Tony, to be sister in law-Kelli, and us) This year we had taken the girls shopping for each other. Talk about interesting. I've never been up and down the aisles at Target that much. Andy was with the opposite child browsing in a different area of the store. After going through the aisles for the 10 billionth time (ok...I exaggerate, but not much) I chose 3 things for the girl I had with me to pick for the other girl. Of course, at first they pick the thing that they would like the most. I then ask if that is what they think their sister would like. This question is followed by a stare that looks like I have 3 heads and a questioning look that is begging to know if this is a trick question.

"If your sister was here and I showed her these same 3 things, what would she choose", I ask rephrasing my question. The answer this time is something that I know shows that they aren't thinking of themselves. Selfless-ness is something that I really am trying to work on with the girls. I don't want them to think of Christmas, or life for that matter, as something that is only about them. It is about others and making other people happy sometimes too.

I took this picture of the girls response after they gave each other their gifts. I think they got it.

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This morning was Christmas morning and the girls woke us at what I refer to as "the butt crack of dawn". It is a time of the day that I am not a fan of. We got up though, because we are wonderful parents, and let the girls open their Santa gifts. They must have been on the good list because they got a couple of the things that they asked for and a couple they didn't even ask for. Cassie got a DVD of her favorite show on the planet....Cats. Best part: as she tore the first part of the paper off it was back side up and she said, "could it be?" she then tore the rest of the paper off, turned it around, and squealed. I've never seen her so happy about a gift. Of course she watched it and also watched the bonus features (the making of Cats, in this case). I think that Cassie is one of the only people that I know that LOVES to watch all the bonus features for movies. This includes the producer/director talk overs and such.

Christmas was very good to us this year. And with the exception of Kalli having a little bit of a cold, Cassie having a little bit of a runny nose, and my cold-induced asthma we are all healthy, happy, and enjoying time together. I'm actually not scared of the girls being off for the next week. Cuddling with them and playing sounds like the plan. Maybe there will some days that we stay in pjs all day. Who knows.

A certain person, however, did find Christmas to be exhausting.

Cassie came to get me when she saw that Kalli was sleeping. She is in my mom's chair here and she is O-U-T! Also...yes, those are roller skates on her feet. They are a gift from Becky and Kalli fell asleep with them on. That is my girlie!

Hope everyone had a superb Christmas, stayed safe, and that Santa was good to you. Also, since I mention birthdays on here. Happy Birthday to my first-ever baby, Cassie. Hard to believe that she is 9. When did that happen???

NaBloPoMo - Day 29

This afternoon we spent some time at Andy's parents' home having a belated Thanksgiving with them. The girls were able to play with their cousin, Kyra, that they don't get to see as often. And a blast was had...for the most part. Please note that Kyra and Cassie are 6 months apart in age and both in that....for lack of a better word....moody stage. It keeps things interesting. And makes me glad I don't have twins otherwise I'd be dealing with 2 moody girls all the time.

Earlier in the afternoon, Kalli attended a birthday party for one of her school friends. She was so excited about going and it was all she talked about for the past week. I walked her into the party place and watched Kalli run to hug her friend. I then talked with the mom until I could tell that Kalli had settled in and then I left. When I returned for her two hours later, she had her pockets filled with prizes.

Ready for the awesome part? All the kids had gotten tickets that they could trade in for prizes at the end of the party. Kalli informed me that she had used some of her tickets to get things for Cassie as well. Kalli had picked out 2 stampers, 2 other toys, and one slinky as her prizes. She would give one stamper and one of the other toy to Cassie. The slinky, I was told, would be shared by the two of them. I was completely impressed with my girlie. She had thought about her sister without any prompting or reminders. She just did it naturally. And the best part for me was that the mother of the birthday girl mentioned how surprised by Kalli's thoughtfulness at only 5. Yup...that is my girl. And I'll have to think of something to give her to reward her for making her mommy look good too. Ya know, I've taught that girl these things and instilled these values in here. :)

Seems that Andy and I've been doing something right.
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Tomorrow is the last day of NaBloPoMo. Whew! I may seriously take a little bit of time off because...do you have any idea how hard it is to come up with things to write about for 30 days in a row? You should try it. Maybe next year a couple of friends that also blog could join me :) (I'm looking at you Becky and Trina!!)

NaBloPoMo - Day 18

Today I got the van aligned. What it's aligned with now, I have no idea....in fact I don't know what it was aligned with before either, come to think of it.

According to the guy at the car place the toes were pointed out and therefore causing tires to wear and such. My thought: my car is practicing to be a ballerina. Alright...cool.

However, upon driving it home I found that accelerating was much easier. Which makes me wonder if my gas mileage will be better now too. Can't wait to see.
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Kalli didn't receive any phone calls from anyone today, however she did get a birthday party invite in the mail and also got 3 immunization shots. After dinner I took her for custard because she was such a trooper getting her shots. I mean, really, 3 shots...poor peanut. The first one she didn't cry, the second was on the same arm and she started to crumble a little, and the last one was in the opposite arm and that one had her crying. I hugged her and held her telling her how proud of her I was and that it was all done. I also told her that I know it hurts and she did awesome and that it is okay to cry when you get shots because they do hurt some. Then I told her that because she did so awesome I would take her for custard after supper. Luckily I had ice cream tickets so it didn't even cost anything. I have to say though that the thought of custard stopped the tears pretty quick.

Going back to the birthday invite. The party is on November 29th and she told me several times that she wanted to go. I told her that we had nothing going on that day, so she would be able to go. Down side to this, of course, is that I have to spend money on another gift for a child without knowing likes, dislikes, and what she already owns. I'll try getting some information from her mom when I call to RSVP, but even with some information, it isn't that much easier.

Since it is only the beginning of the year and they've each been invited to one party, I'm a little nervous. I usually spend $15-$20 for each birthday but it still adds up. I'm considering keeping tabs on how many parties they go to throughout the year to see approximately what I spend to have my little girlies be popular-ish.

Also, coming up, the girls will be doing a cheerleading clinic with a local high school. Cassie has done these clinics in the past and loves them. This will be Kalli's first, but she has seen past ones and knowing how she is, I KNOW she will love it. Rough part is that the cost is $20 per child. When it was just Cassie it didn't seem so bad, but for the both of them to attend I'm looking at $40. They do get t-shirts, snacks, and a few other things, but still. $40 for one night. Though they also will perform at halftime for the basketball game so that will be a super picture opportunity, not to mention super cute. What can I say...they had me at picture opportunity.

August 19, 2009

It's official. The girls are registered at their new school and will start in 13 days (September 1). Not that I'm excited or anything.

Seriously though, anyone that is a stay at home parent can understand how jived a parent gets this time of year. I get goosebumps just thinking about a day spent with a few hours without constant whining or hearing one of the following.

1. I'm hungry
2. I'm bored or
3. Can I *fill in the blank*

I love my girlies and we've actually had a pretty good summer, but it will be nice to have them back in school. Structure to their days, time to get things done without interruptions, and grocery shopping solo.
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Today we met the new principal and secretary, got the ball rolling on how Cassie will be taken care of, found out who the girls will have for teachers, and also toured the school. The girls feel much more at ease and I am glad to know that things are more finalized. I still have to figure out busing, but my list of anxieties is slowly shortening...for now.

Kalli is downright excited about starting school. Cassie is....well, she is going into third grade...you kinda lose the excitement at that point. School is boring/work now, but she is looking forward to meeting new friends and she is ecstatic about the school's mascot. It is a mustang....a horse...can you just imagine how happy she was when she discovered this?

Prior to our heading to the new school today, we visited the old school. We spoke with the principal, the secretary, Cassie's first grade teacher, and second grade teacher. They were all sad to hear that Cassie wouldn't be going there anymore and hugs were given. Cassie really was loved at that school, but I'm sure that she will be loved just as much at this new school. Her personality makes it impossible not to love her.

As of now the transition is going well and I'm hoping it continues as we get into the actual school year. The girls have told me that they like our new home better then the old one and now they are both content with going to this other school. I feel like I've done something right.
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Tonight after dinner and visiting the old apartment to clean some, we were convinced by the girls to go for bike rides again. Andy took Cassie around the block 2 times on the tag-a-long and Kalli around once. I followed Kalli with my bike as she SLOWLY made her way around on her bike once and I took one lap on my own. I appreciate that the girls are enjoying being outside and doing something that could be considered exercise. However, I really wish we could do it all together. I'm considering getting another tag-a-long so Kalli could ride with me and we could all ride at once. Sure Kalli could ride her bike along side us, but seriously...her little legs can't pedal very fast yet and those legs tire easily.

Wanna guess what the girls have already asked to do tomorrow? Bike rides all around!

June 29, 2009

As I sit here typing this I am child-free. And it is 2:43 on a Monday. How is it that I am able to do this? Well...The girls have new friends. Today we were outside and the girls were playing with chalk and bubbles and we noticed a little girl that looked about Cassie's age standing outside the house across the street. She was just watching Cassie and Kalli playing.

Hmmm...I thought to myself. Wonder if she wants to play. I asked the girls if we should go over and say hi. Cassie, of course, said "um...no?" She isn't real good at the meeting new people thing. Just like me when I was younger. I used to like to sit in the background wishing that I could talk to new people, but not sure how to go about it. (Side note...I still do this some) Tony, would just walk up to kids and say "wanna be my friend?" I'd watch him thinking, 'it can't be that easy...I don't know how to do it.'

But I digress. After a little bit I saw what looked like 2 more young girls across the street looking at Cassie and Kalli. I told the girls, let's go say hi. And we did. We made our way over there to meet the 3 little girls that live over there now. The oldest is 9, middle is 6, and youngest is 5. And of the three the little girl is the talker. She invited Cassie and Kalli into the backyard to see stuff and we all followed. There, I met the mom...who like me is a stay at home mom. The girls ran around playing, the mom and I talked, we went inside to see the place, and the girls played more. I spent about 1.5-2 hours talking with the mom and watching the girls play. The best part is when the middle girl asked if she could go over to 'her new friends' house'. We agreed that today they would play there and tomorrow we could play here. (Down side of this is the fact that tomorrow I'll have 5 kids here...but I can live with it because my girls have new friends.)

So right now I'm sitting here loving the fact that I'm child-free. And not because I can get stuff done, but because I know that not only do my girls have more friends, but because their mom said that her girls were worried about making friends here and I've helped to ease that.
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Announcement time: In one month, we'll be moving. We are moving to a duplex that it exactly 1.3 miles from where we are now. We're very excited about the move and are hoping to keep the girls at the same school. I'm working on it because according to where the place is, they should be going to a different school, but seriously...it isn't that far away from where we are now.

As Cassie was following her new friends around she looked at me and said, "Now I wish we weren't moving". I told her that we aren't going that far and that she can still play with these girls. The mom, even agreed saying that they could absolutely still play together.

And besides...they have a whole summer in front of them.

I'm off to get some stuff done now. Wish me luck on getting my kids home later.

FYI: there will hopefully be another post tonight about my weekend. Unless I'm dragging my kids kicking and screaming from across the street. In which case, that'll be a story. I'll try to get Andy to take pictures of the scene.

Kalli's Birthday

This past Saturday was Kalli's 5th birthday. I can not believe that my girlie is already 5. It's just crazy.

We celebrated her birthday by first having one of her friend's over the day before. There was an end of the year party at Bay Beach for Kalli's 4K program. We met up with Kalli's friend there and they rode some rides together. We then came home and the girls helped make and decorate cupcakes. What I realized while having Kalli's friend here is that they are very much alike and it gave me the feeling of how it would feel if Kalli were a twin. Let me just say that I'm glad that Kalli isn't a twin.

Kalli and her friend on the boats

On Kalli's birthday we had family over for lunch, cake, and ice cream. And because Kalli requested it, we opened gifts before eating anything. She had a blast and made quite a haul. I have to say that she is most definitely spoiled. But she was good about getting her gifts and has been sharing with Cassie in the past couple days.

After gifts and sloppy joes, we had cake. I had ordered Kalli a Tinker Bell cake and she was thrilled with it. Though, honestly, after the candles were blew out the cake didn't matter because Kalli was more interested in playing with all her new toys. Fortunately, the weather was gorgeous on her day and she was able to play outside with her toys and some of her guests.


Looking back 5 years ago, the thing that I remember most about the days after her birth was showing off her feet to any person that visited. She had such long feet and I loved to show them off. And now Kalli has more shoes then Andy and I combined. Kalli also thinks that any time she finds a shoe in her size (and she knows her size) she needs to buy them.

What a peanut. Happy Birthday, Kalli Jean Bean.

Wisconsin Dells - Day 1

How is it that you never realize how much you love your own bed, pillow, and home until you go on vacation?

Last night I had what is probably the best night sleep in months. I crawled into my bed, cuddled into my pillow, and decided to never leave it again. Of course I will when we camp later this summer, but by then I will forget how in love with my bed and pillow I really am. Luckily my pillow and bed always take me back.

We had a wonderful vacation, minus finding out that Kalli gets car sick. When we arrived in Wisconsin Dells we went to the Wisconsin Deer Park. Cassie was completely unsure of walking with and alongside real live deer, but I told her that she had no choice. By the end of the walk around the park, Cassie was feeding the deer, petting them, and walking beside them. Not only was I impressed with Cassie overcoming a fear, but I also was impressed because she walked the entire thing with her crutches and didn't once ask for her wheelchair.

After the deer park we headed to a local park for a picnic lunch. The girls played some and we tried to figure out what we wanted to do next. The vote was that we go walk around downtown and the shops for a bit while. The clouds were beginning to dissipate and we knew warmer temperatures were on their way.

Next, we headed to Red Ridge Riding Stable. (try saying that 3 times fast) My brother, his girlfriend, the girls, Andy, and I all took a trail ride on horses. Cassie and Kalli were in all their glory. The rest of us enjoyed it as well. We were all sore when we dismounted an hour later. Today, 2 days later, my inner thighs and hips are still sore. I think I'm getting old. Cassie has already decided that she wants to go back. In fact, she would really like to go to camp there for a week. Obviously she knows nothing about the cost of living in the Dells for a week and paying for a week long camp. I am, however, thrilled that she enjoyed herself. Cassie loves horses, yet when she heard that she was going to ride by herself she wasn't sure she wanted to do it. I, again, told her that she had to. About half way through the ride, her horse (Breeze) decided that the grass along the trail looked tasty and stopped for a bite. Cassie very easily pulled on the reins and directed Breeze back to follow Kalli's horse (which was being rope led by the trail guide) I was proud of her and told her this later when we talked about our day. Cassie told me that she was very nervous at first, but kept talking to herself in her head and calmed herself down. I informed her that this is a very good skill and that she did just what she should have. She can't let her fears keep her from doing things. Kalli enjoyed herself as well...let's put it this way...she smiled the entire ride.

We finished our adventures by riding on the Original Ducks. This is a 8.5 mile tour on and off of land. It was a windy and cool ride, but the girls enjoyed it. Cassie laughed at almost all the corny jokes the guide made (completely Cassie's humor) and towards the end she told me that the guide liked making jokes a little too much. Kalli spent her ride wrapped in a blanket that my mom was smart enough to bring.


After dinner at the Pizza Pub (recommended by Becky) we retired to the hotel where the girls swam and stayed up late watching TV.
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Watch for Day 2 to be posted tomorrow.

Spring Break - Day 2 & 3

I was just making a sad face with my bottom lip sticking out, when Kalli saw it she said "back that lip up" Andy and I burst out laughing because it is just something that Kalli would say. I have no idea where some of the things she says come from.
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So today was day 3 of spring break and I'm proud to report that I'm still alive and sane. I know...impressive isn't it? Yesterday I let each of the girls invite one friend over for a 4 hour play date. That means that for 4 hours I had to keep 4 little girls happy and fed. I did pretty well and was pleased with how well everyone did. Kalli cried when her friend left and has been talking about how much she misses her friend since then. Cassie's BFF came back later in the afternoon and stayed overnight last night, making Cassie possibly the happiest child alive.

Then today we started the day off with 4 little girls (Cassie, Kalli, Cassie's BFF, and my niece... Kaitlynn who I'm lucky enough to have had overnight again :) The girls played, Cassie Kalli and I had lunch with my BFF, and Cassie had a field trip for Girl Scouts. That leaves us at tonight. Cassie is spending her first night at a friend's house tonight and is thrilled beyond belief. At 8:00, I went to ready Cassie for bed and I can tell you that Cassie is having a blast. I'll have to go back at about 8 tomorrow morning to help her get ready for the day, but it is worth it to see Cassie having a good time and being able to stay at someone's house. When Cassie was a wee babe I didn't know how slumber parties would ever work. Would she have friends that would be willing to have her overnight (Cassie has to crawl once her braces are off) and would we be able to work out the changing when at someone else's home. Tonight is proof that she can do 'normal' things. I always knew that we'd be able to do it, I just wasn't sure of the logistics. I'm so proud of Miss Cassie. And of her BFF. (Side note: Her BFF will be going to different school next year. BOO! :( But I'm hoping to keep them playing together and friends) Cassie's BFF is very accepting of everything about Cassie. She asks questions, likes learning more about Cassie, and knows Cassie wears diapers but is accepting of it. BFF helps Cassie walk when she leaves her crutches behind and also encourages Cassie to walk solo by standing a little away from Cassie and catching her in a hug when Cassie starts to fall. I love seeing the two of them together and the fact that BFF is very well behaved makes it even more pleasant.

All of this is to say that we're on day 3 of Spring Break, we're actually happy and sane, we haven't had nearly as many fights as I predicted by this point, and I'm thinking maybe summer won't be that bad. Here's to hoping.
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Ok...one more Kallilian. (that would be the word that we use to describe something Kalli says) She is laying on our bed as we are settling down for the night and we have just finished watching American Idol. She says to Andy "Handsome is for boys and Pretty is for girls. Right, daddy? Handsome is the same as Pretty and Pretty is the same as Handsome." From time to time I am surprised at things she says. At this point you would think that I would no longer be surprised by things that she says...but I still am.

Guess I'm not a fast learner after all.

Spring Break - Day 1

So today was the first day of the girls' spring break. And by 11:00 the girls had had 2 arguments. While I didn't think that was awful, it made me nervous about how the rest of the week would go. Therefore, at 11 I packed the girls up and we headed out to run some errands. Our main destination was Toys R Us. The girls had each gotten a gift card for Toys R Us for Christmas and we had yet to spend it. I thought that this would keep them busy for a little bit of the week...and maybe not fighting constantly. I can dream.

The only rule that was made was that it couldn't be Littlest Pet Shop. The girls have so much Littlest Pet Shop that we are trying to get them to pick other things when given the option. After 2 laps around the store weighing our options, Cassie settled on a Nintendo DS game and Kalli picked a Sleeping Beauty cell phone and Sleeping Beauty shoes (with small heals). While Cassie ended up spending all of her money, Kalli had some left over and here is the impressive part. Ready for it?? When we went to check out, I told Kalli that since she had extra money, she could buy a piece of candy, but I would like it if she would get Cassie one too. Kalli went over to to the candy and picked out 4 KitKats. She then told me that there was one for Cassie, Daddy, her and me...but that we couldn't have them until dessert tonight. When we got home she put them in the freezer to keep them cold and got them out to hand them out after supper. I was so shocked by her unselfishness that I could have just scooped her up and squeezed the poop out of her. I didn't though. Instead I told her how proud I was of her. She is really growing up to be an awesome little girl.

And on that topic...I just told Cassie the other day what a cool kid she is growing up to be. We were cuddling in bed before going to bed. Kalli was at my parents and Andy was playing video games, so there were no interuptions as Cassie and I talked and I tickled her. Cassie doesn't get much one on one time so it was wonderful to spend the time with her talking until she asked to go to bed.

I am looking forward to spending this week with the two of them while they are on break. On the other hand...I'm frightened at the number of arguments that may happen, the fact that with the weather being cooler I'll have to find things for them to do, and lastly I'm scared that this is just a preview of what this summer will be like. <>

If, in the next couple days, you don't hear from me.....please check on me to make sure I'm not tied up in a closet somewhere. Thanks :)

February 17, 2009

I crawled into bed last night and had a very hard time getting my legs to relax. I was sore and my hip was screaming at me. Just about the time I was beginning to drift off to sleep, Cassie came into the room. Her stomach and throat felt funny and her back was hurting. I let her lay on the floor to sleep but it was quickly evident that she wasn't settling down. I asked what was going on and found out that she was beginning to feel like she was going to be sick. I obtained a container for her and sat with her for over an hour as she shook from feeling overheated and then getting too cold. All in all that feeling that you get when you feel like you are going to be sick and then go into wishing to get it over with. She did exactly that. Cassie began with saying that she is a little scared to throw up, went onto I don't like feeling like this, and finally got to why can't I just throw up already. Finally around 1 this morning we were able to get to sleep. Cassie slept the rest of the night fine and woke up this morning feeling normal. I, however, kept her home because I wanted to monitor her. And, because I was too tired to argue with Kalli, I let her stay home too as a mental health day. Mommy needed a mental health day.

The girls played quietly and nicely all morning and even did a puzzle together. By themselves. I was very impressed with the fact that they put this 100 piece puzzle together by themselves that I took pictures.

Later in the day I was able to get some help cleaning. They actually offered to help.

Kalli wet Swiffered the bathroom and Cassie wet Swiffered the kitchen for me. Cassie dusted and Kalli picked up all the toys that were out in the living room. Funniest part of cleaning was after Kalli had finished the bathroom. I was doing dishes and she came to me and said, "You'll never go back to your old mop and broom again." Hey Swiffer...do you need a new spokesperson?

If the girls stay this cooperative this summer should be a breeze. Once or twice a week we'll get our cleaning done and they will have jobs to help out. And I'm considering throwing in the jobs I don't want to do as things they have to do if I hear the words 'I'm bored'. For instance...cleaning under the stove, dusting/wiping down the moldings around the base of rooms, or washing cabinet fronts. I could get a lot accomplished :)

January 11, 2009

Today I started a new hobby. One that I never thought I'd find myself doing. I watched this video that was posted on one of the blogs that I read, Balancing Everything, and today while at my mom's I tried it. With a few questions that my mom answered, I started to knit a....I'm not quite sure what it is yet. Maybe a pot holder. Maybe a small blanket for the girls to use with their barbies. Maybe a scarf. We'll just have to see. It isn't perfect (Hey give me a break...this is my first attempt after learning from watching a video once.) and I seem to have gained width on it somehow. I'm special like that.

I plan on trying to knit more things, though I'm not sure what. Then I'm also going to take on crocheting. I know a little about crocheting, but it has been a while since I've done anything. If nothing else, I can crochet a chain that I can use to tie up the kids.
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Yesterday was Cassie's family birthday party. We had cake and ice cream, she opened gifts, and we visited. I was very impressed with my little girl as she said thank yous without prompting and even before she opened the gift. She'd open the card, thank the person, open the present, and usually thank again. After she was finished opening gifts I had her say one big thank you to everyone before we moved onto cake and ice cream. Between her manners and the sharing with her little sister (though she didn't really have to..I told her it was up to her. It is her day) Cassie made me very proud of her. She really is turning into a wonderful young lady.

*We're growing bangs out. If you went through the process of growing out your bangs ever, you'll remember what a pain in the behind it is.*
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Lastly for tonight, I want to share something Cassie said today that made me laugh out loud.
She was standing, balancing without crutches, by my parent's couch. She lost her balance and fell. She got back up and said, "Falling looks like it is easy. And it is."

Gosh, I love that girl!

December 15, 2008

Okay, I'm done with winter. This cold weather has me really wishing that it was March already. In the words of Kalli, "Eeww winter, yummy summer."
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Tonight we got our van back from being fixed. It is absolutely wonderful to have it back. I was not a fan of the rental we had. And best of all... They washed and detailed it for me. Awww... It made me a very happy camper to get in and see that it had not only been vacuumed but also Armor All-ed. The girls loved the smell and I was just loving the cleanness.
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Yesterday was a fun evening. Not only did we have my brother-in-law, sister-in-law, and baby niece over, but Cassie also lost her 5th tooth. (while brushing her teeth) Ready for pictures? Come on, you had to know there would be some. I only took 60 pictures while Kaitlynn was here. Alot you say? Well, let me tell you that Cassie and Kalli were using my old point and shoot camera and between the two of them they took 80 pictures. So there :)

I did a mini photo shoot with Kaitlynn. She is going to be so used to pictures when I'm around she'll think it normal to have flashes go off all the time.

Kalli fed Kaitlynn her bottle. And though I don't have a good picture of it, Cassie held Kaitlynn before the bottle. I have to say that I was SUPER impressed with Cassie too. Kaitlynn was understandably fussy as she was hungry and therefore she was crying. Cassie didn't call for an adult to take her, but instead talked calmly to Kaitlynn, bounced her a little, and calmed her down. She is going to be such a good mommy some day.

While brushing her teeth that night Cassie's loose tooth started bleeding. I wiggled it some and then went to hold it with a washcloth. It was at this point that it just came out. Cassie was thrilled.


Lastly. Today is my nephew's 10th birthday. And even though he won't know that I'm wishing him a Happy Birthday from afar, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DOMINIC!

November 10, 2008

Tonight I printed out a list of the 38 books in the series of Pony Pals that Cassie has been reading since the middle of this past summer. We went over the list to see what ones she hasn't read and she is down to only 3 unread from the series. I have to say that I'm very proud of her and the fact that she has stuck to reading an entire series. Of course it helps that it is about horses. That girl loves horses. I'm taking donations for the riding lessons that she keeps asking me about.

We (meaning auntie Becky (our personal librarian) and myself) already know what books we are going to try Cassie on next. I'm very excited that she loves reading so much.

Lately Kalli has been walking around with a book and bookmark. She pretends that she is reading and it is very cute. Of course it is one of Cassie's books, so it is a little advanced for Kalli. But she is trying and getting the idea that reading is good. When she brings home a new library book from school though we all take turns reading it to her over and over.
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In other exciting news, Cassie is learning a new responsibility. We've told her that when she turns 8, she will start cleaning the cat's litter box. She has been asking about this a lot lately and since she is only about a month away from 8, Andy took yesterday as a chance to show her the proper way to do this fun chore. We've told her that when she takes over fully, she will be doing it everyday so that it doesn't get out of control. Kinda like daddy lets it get sometimes when I have to remind him. :)

When she arrived home from school today she informed us that she wanted to start her chore. We made her wait until after dinner but then Andy went in the bathroom with her and supervised as she did it. And she did a wonderful job. Andy has decided he prefers supervising and Cassie has decided that she likes her new responsibility. I'm sure Cassie will outgrow her like for cleaning the litter box, but I can hope that she always likes being responsibility.

November 6, 2008

As I write this we are sitting in my bedroom watching 'Survivor'. This is a Thursday tradition now. The girls get settled on our bed and watch with 'Survivor' with us before bedtime. They love the extra time and getting to cuddle in our bed. (Sure, I'm not cuddling right now, but hey they need some "Daddy Time".)

The part that I'm finding a little funny is that when Andy tells the girls to settle down they look to me. It is like they aren't sure if they should listen to him or something. I just nod. Then after a little bit they aren't listening to him at all. This happens more then just when we are all sitting her in the bedroom. The girls will start to get a little on the loud side or just in general not be listening. I finally step in and just have to say something once and the girls calm right down.

Now don't get me wrong. It isn't often that the girls are in need of calming or that they don't listen to Andy, but I do find it funny that in the end I'm the one that is more of the disciplinarian. Of course, it could have something to do with the fact that I'm the one home with them the most and they are used to having to listen to me.
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After homework tonight Andy and I were sitting on the couch watching some television and the girls were playing at the table with some animals. When I looked over to see how they were getting along, I saw Kalli on Cassie's chair with her and Cassie was reading to Kalli.

It was so endearing to see them like this. The past couple days they've been kinder to each other and more sisterly. Makes me wonder if I'm doing something right and that maybe they are actually listening when I tell them that they need to be kind to each other and that you don't have to always "like" your sister, but you always have to "love" them. I'm hoping.

Second posting for today...you lucky people

When I picked up Cassie today from school I was told that she had an awesome day. Awesome translates into 'she didn't cry today'. I was so excited and proud. I feel like we spent the rest of the day telling people about it and celebrating. I'm hoping that we are at the turning point for Kalli's anxieties.

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Since I've now become a Rachel Ray and am making suppers every night, most of them new meals, we've come up with a plan to let me know which ones are favorites. The plan goes like this... After a meal I ask each person about it and they can give it a star or no star. Therefore, the most a meal can get is 4 stars. This would be if everyone liked the meal and this would mean that this is a meal that I could make more often. If a meal had say only 2 stars, I'd still make it from time to time but not as often.

This week our meals consist of:

Monday - Egg Salad Sandwiches (4 stars)
Tuesday - Italian Seasoned Chicken (4 stars) with a Pasta Roni which the girls love
Wednesday - Plain Roast (4 stars) and Rainbow Rotini with Spinach and Cherry Tomatoes (1.5 stars)

Yet to have this week, Spaghetti (just normal boring spaghetti) and Roasted Lemon Chicken with Green Beans and Potatoes.

Maybe I should start doing a 'Did They Eat It' part of my blog when I try new things. Something to think about. What do you think??