2 Many Kids 2 Little Time

Explanation

This morning we were about to leave for Sunday School so I asked Lillian if she needed to go to the potty. I thought she said "I need to poo poo." I told her "Go to the potty if you need to poo poo." Then she stated "No, mama, I don't need to go..." "Are you sure?" I quizzed. Lillian looked straight at me with a determined gaze and answered, "I don't need to go poo poo. There is no poo poo in my bottom."

Oh! (Dwight almost spit out his tea at this explanation...) We all chuckled and were on our way. 

Freckle Face

Another funny story from the Hamlin house...

On Tuesday afternoon, Asher and his friend, Ian, were painting. Ian finished his picture and gave it to me. "Do you know what it is?" he asked. I didn't - well, I realized it was a painting of a face. "It's you, Ms. Marria!" Ian said.

Actually, after looking at it, the picture did resemble me. Brown hair, blue eyes, and freckles!

Asher was looking at the painting of me that evening and asked what was on my face. I said "Freckles." He said "Oh, like Papa has..." I was a little confused - my dad has "age spots" on his arms but not really freckles on his face. I told Asher Papa's "freckles" were a little different. "I know," Asher said. "Like Grandy's nipples." "Not nipples - freckles." I replied. "No nipples - like on Papa and Grandy's back! Pink nipples!" Asher insisted.

I was confused for about a second and then realized he was talking about moles. What a laugh Dyron and I got out of that one! 

Garage Sale Baby

Okay - I've been saving this one. The story of the year. It begins like this...

Dyron and I took our tenth anniversary trip to the Cayman Islands in May. We only took Baby Eden with us - Asher and Lillian stayed with their Aunt Mandie. Mandie (being the generous aunt she is) gave each of the kids (hers included - Levi and Stella) 50 cents to make a purchase at a neighbor's garage sale. Lillian's purchase was "Garage Sale Baby."

It has been four months since the infamous purchase and "Garage Sale Baby" is still the apple of Lillian's eye. She sleeps with her. She takes her everywhere - including to Wisconsin this summer and most recently on the airplane to Virginia. She also totes her almost everywhere we go in Maumelle. "Garage Sale Baby" is HER BABY.

"Garage Sale Baby" is sometimes called "Princess Baby" but when looking for her or singing to her she is ALWAYS referred to as "GSB." GSB has also been missing a leg for about two of the four months. Nonetheless, Lillian still adores her.

What size do you wear?

Lillian spent some time with Oma recently -

whenever Oma has to go to the bathroom Lilli has to go to the "potty" with her. She was wearing her Barbie panties the other day and was excitedly telling Oma about them while they were in the bathroom. Oma acted very enthusiastic about Lilli's panties and Lilli replied, "If you really like them, we can get you a BIG pair...!"

Don't you love kids honesty?

Sorry about the gripe...

only with kids -

I realized this evening while unloading the dishwasher how kids change you...

Only with kids would you unload a pair of plastic vampire teeth from your silverware compartment (they were worn by Asher too soon after eating chocolate candy).

Only with kids will you open the shower door and find:

- a variety of plastic marine life, fake spiders, pretend snakes

- legos

- a tea party set

- 25 Hot Wheel cars

-every formerly full bottle in your shower now empty and full of water

What is it about kids? They slowly take over a house and turn it into a home. You gotta love 'em!  

"I'm tutu"

Lillian's current obsession

My children continue to amuse me daily -

Lilli's current obsession is wearing a tutu.

Everyday!!!

If she beats me to the closet she will be wearing some sort of dance-related clothing item for the remainder of the day. Actually, even if I beat her to the closet - because she will select one of three outfits (a pink tutu, a white sparkly tutu, or a glittery pink skirt) to wear on top of whatever other clothing she might already have on...

She also wants me to play "a ballerina song" on the piano while she dances around the house. A "ballerina song" is just something tinkly on the high notes of the piano. Luckily...I'm a bit rusty on the piano due to my three children - can you imagine?

Playing at the park

I took the girls to the park on Wednesday and we had a blast! Lilli was so excited I packed us a little picnic basket. She kept asking, "Is this our picnic?" and "Are we eating our picnic?" She was obsessed!

The girls got to swing. Eden squeals with delight and Lilli wants me to run under the swing so she can "go higher and higher."

Eden learned to crawl up the stairs on the playground equipment! She was so proud of her new skill. Lilli called her "chirren" (children) and went upstairs and downstairs in her "house."
What a beautiful Fall day to enjoy with my girls.

Barbie goes fishing

Yesterday evening we were riding home from Oma's house and this was the discussion.

Asher: "I want to go fishing with Papa."

Me: "Just ask Papa and I'm sure he'll be happy to take you fishing."

Lillian: "I want to go fishing too!"

Me: "We'll have to get you a fishing pole. Maybe we could find you a princess or Barbie fishing pole."

Lillian: "A Barbie fishing hole...a Barbie fishing hole!"

Asher: "They don't have a Barbie fishing pole."

Me: "They just might - we'll have to look..."

Lillian: "Yeah Bubba. A Barbie fishing hole..."

Asher: "It wouldn't have a hook."

Me: "Yes it would. Every fishing pole has a hook."

Lillian: "Yeah Bubba. It would have a hook."

Asher: "I bet it won't and I'll just laugh and laugh..."

Lillian: "I want a Barbie fishing hole..."

Now that's entertainment!

Piano Lessons

Asher has been taking piano lessons for about a month now. He's very up and down about playing the piano. Asher wants to master everything he does immediately! So - there are moments of frustration when learning a new piece of music (especially for me because I have to listen to the whining from Asher). But once he gets the hang of a piece he really takes off! He's even memorized a few of his songs. Anyway, he's no Mozart but he's learning fast!

Little stinkers!

I noticed my bedside table drawer was open and had been searched through when I was getting into my bed last night - but didn't think much of it. Asher has been "coughing" for the past few nights. I gave him a throat lozenge two nights in a row and then decided he was basically "faking" it.

Well, the little pirates snuck into my room and grabbed a handful of throat lozenges - thank goodness the only "active ingredient" was pectin because there was a pile of wrappers on the table in their room!

I gave them both a lecture on medicine distribution (only from mama or daddy) and the difference between candy and a cough drop. They seem to be a bit more brave when it's both of them scheming together!

It's only just begun!

The leg was lost, but now it's found!

The email subject said "Black baby leg found." Instantly, I knew that my friend, Missy Hill, found "Garage Sale Baby's" leg! It was discovered at the bottom of her daughter's toy box. Missy is bringing it to Sunday School this week - what a reunion that will be...

In addition to the leg being found, Lilli has a "baby sister" for Garage Sale Baby. Dyron purchased her in New Orleans and she was an instant hit with Lillian. I (on the other hand) am worried we may get some dirty looks on our next outing! What do you think?

Happy Halloween!

Once upon a time there was a pirate and a princess. The princess had a makeover and the pirate grew a beard. The princess felt so beautiful she told the pirate "Bubba, you are going to marry me!" The pirate said "No way!" They had a great time (despite the rainy weather) and scored a lot of candy (to share with mama and daddy).

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Eden is almost one!

(time flies when you're having fun - or too busy!)

Well, 2005 has certainly come and gone in an instant! Eden Lane will be celebrating her first birthday on December 12th. It's unbelievable how fast time passes...when you're having fun and all that jazz!

She was our "unexpected surprise" and what a blessing from God! Praise him for life's unplanned adventures...

She is a constant amusement to all of her family - walking, talking, chasing the cats, getting into EVERYTHING...

I LOVE YOU MY DARLING EDEN!

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY!

EDEN IS ONE!

I can't believe it! My baby girl is one today - what a joy she has been and continues to be...God is so smart! We try to "plan" our lives, families, etc. and God makes a better plan for us. Thank God for all of my beautiful children and the hard and wonderful lesssons they teach me every day.

Eden's birthday party was yesterday (Sunday) and it was a hit! She was such a sweetie - devouring her cake and loving on her new teddy bear!

Today (on her actual birth day) I took her for her one-year-old portrait and her cake (eating) pictures. She was so cooperative and all smiles! What a joyous addition to my life!

Will I have those?

Lilli and I were taking a Christmas Eve bath and she asked me the all important question - "Why do you have "mimies" mama?"

(Mimies are how my children refer to my boobs.)

I answered "to give Eden milk."

"I know that..."

I went on to explain she would have mimies when she was a mama.

She said "No, I don't want big mimies. I want my little ones and give a little mimi to my little babies."

Kids have it all figured out!

Lilli's ramblings...

Lilli gives me a lot of material! She is an extremely chatty 2 year old...

Lately, she has been amusing me with her descriptions. "Oh mama, this skirt is so beautiful." "Isn't this sweater wonderful?" "Probly..." "Look at the mooooon - it's so shiny!" "Why?" "WHy?" "WHY????"

Tonight she was concerned about the disappearing Christmas lights. "Why aren't there many Christmas lights?" "Why is Christmas over?" After a million questions of "why" she finally decided she was "angry."

When I asked why she was angry, she replied "because they tooked them all down and 'frowed' them away and I just don't care ANYMORE..."

Lillian also has some new pink (her favorite color - imagine that!) "cowgirl" boots (from her Aunt Martie). She either wants to wear them or her new Cinderella heels every day. She also usually has a crown on her head...

Let's not leave Eden out...

Eden has been having a hard time lately.

She is cutting four HUGE molars and is EXTREMELY whiny and clingy. If she wasn't so cute...

Her three favorite new words are: shoe, sock, and hello. Every time the phone rings she says "hello." This morning she wanted to wear Lillian's "Hello Kitty" shoes which are 3 sizes to big...I thought Dyron had picked the wrong shoes...don't laugh...he has put Eden's dress on Lilli before...

But, Eden had insisted Dyron put them on her and she seemed to enjoy wearing them around the house for about an hour.

Countdown to the castle cake...

I am going to attempt to make a castle cake for Lilli's 3rd birthday! She wants a "Cinderella" birthday - shocker! I went online to get some ideas and these were what the moms that created these wonders called "easy." Hmmm....I think they really had them professionally done and aren't admitting it.

I will unveil my finished product on or around February 4th. Wish me luck...

Sick day

The Hamlin house is finally emerging from about five days of sickness. We took Asher to the Dr. on Monday (I was fearing the flu) and found out he had an ear infection and a cold. A lot of laying around, crying, and "Looney Tune" watching...glad it's all coming to an end!

(No wonder Dyron spends so much time in New Orleans!)

Terrified of Bubbles...

Dyron discovered the other night (while I was at Kickboxing) Eden is terrified of bubbles in the bath tub.

Of course, he made her suffer awhile and ran and got the video camera to "capture for future generations" the moment of terror! (Only a Daddy would run and get the video camera...)

The story is...Dyron thought the girls would enjoy a bubble bath and proceeded to pour the bubbles in...he then put some bubbles on Eden's belly and...........SHE FREAKED OUT!!!

My story is...Eden was sitting in the bath tonight and Lilli was about to get in...saw the bubbles...wanted a bubble bath...so I started putting them under the running water. Eden was at the other end of the tub and sat playing happily until she looked and saw the approaching bubbles and..........FREAKED OUT!!!

Dyron and I couldn't think of anything Lilli was terrified of but were reminded of Asher's "shivers." When he was about 14 months old, we were in Galveston, Texas for the New Year and went out to eat at a nice hotel restaurant. This hotel had a parrot in a huge "gilded" cage. He was very still at first (as we were showing Asher) and then he moved toward us and made some noise...Asher looked at him with big eyes and shivered from head to toe. It was hilarious! He also did this the first time he saw a turtle stick its head out of its shell.

More ramblings...

Lillian has been really cute lately and I must share some of her quotes!

I was furiously cleaning the house on Friday and she quipped "Mama, get to cleanin...'" She flashed me a cute little grin and completed her thought with "When I grow up I'm gonna be a mama and I'll get to mop!" I hope she keeps that spirit because sometimes I feel like my brains are turning to mush and I'm just an underpaid maid!

She was enjoying some outside time with Asher later in the day - and following in her brother's footsteps she went outside without her shoes and socks on... I heard her crying and went out to see what had triggered her emotional outburst. "Oh mama, I hurt my little foot. It certainly feels soggy and bad. I guess I need my shoes." What verbal treasures my children give to me!

I need some more Orajel!

Poor Eden is teething -

You know...the big ones in the back of the mouth that hurt to look at...

She's drooling...

Her nose is dripping on everything...

She's fussy and whiny and needy...

And when she sees the Homeopathic teething tablets she gets a look of lust in her eye...

She's like a puppy dog - chewing on books, chewing on her shoes, chewing on her toothbrush...

What's a mama to do?

Her Daddy just slathers Orajel all over her gums and she's a happy baby!

Waiting for a visit from the tooth fairy...

Asher had a wiggly front tooth.

He wiggled it.

He pushed on it with his tongue.

He ate a lot of apples.

Asher wrestled with Grandy.

He wrestled.

And wrestled.

And wrestled.

Oops! Out came the tooth -

Asher came running down the stairs.

Screaming "I lost my tooth."

"I lost my tooth!"

THE END

WARDROBE UPDATE...

Little girls and their clothes...

Lillian received a pair of wings from her friend, Ani, for her birthday. What fun she's had wearing them today! I'm not sure if she's a fairy, butterfly, or some other fantastic creature in her imagination!

Wanted: A wife like you!

Asher has been extremely loving lately. To me.

He's always wanting to give me these long kisses. And back rubs. Hmmm...

Dyron and I are trying to figure out what is going on...

Tonight, he gave me his usual lingering kiss and his "I love you so much" and added a new line. "I want a wife just like you."

Followed by..."will you pick me a wife?"

I asked him what his qualifications for a wife were -

"cute, loving, kissing, hugging, snuggling..."

(I'm enjoying this phase!)

Eden's Sleep Indicator

Eden has a neat little feature that I find useful on a daily basis. I call it her "sleep indicator." Whenever she starts getting tired, her cheeks start getting pink. The more exhausted she becomes - the pinker her cheeks get...it's very helpful!

Her sleep indicator works for naps and tells me when she's ready to go to bed at night...thanks baby!

The New Gap

Asher now has a huge gap...

After trying to convince him all weekend to let Oma or Papa or Daddy or someone pull his dangling tooth, it finally came out...at recess!

Too cute!

"Row, row, row your boat"

An empty laundry basket was on the floor the other day and Lilli claimed it as her boat. Eden needed a boat too - so I found another empty basket (a miracle). The girls had so much fun (for about an hour) playing in their "boats." We sang every boat or water song we knew and they went on an adventure together! They got their blankets and books and giggled a lot about their new found toy. Who needs toys???

Eden's Curls

I refuse to cut Eden's hair because I am hoping for some curls.

I see them there.

I believe they are curls.

Is it my imagination?

Lillian's "Stuff"

What is it with girls and their stuff? Lillian has these little collections of miscellaneous things. Weird combinations of toys, dolls, crayons, mail, jewelry, make-up, clothing, money, etc. Take a look and explain this strange phenomenon to me!

She not only stores her stuff in her room but carries things around in little purses, plastic bags, and her Strawberry Shortcake back pack.

A New Discovery

Lilli discovered a new food at dinner. She calls it "rockamole" (guacamole)! She kept saying "I love this rockamole mom." Dyron also taught her double-dipping is not sanitary -

Eden's new favorite word is "happy" - she makes us all happy when she repeats it over and over again.

Peek-a-boo!

Eden is changing so fast! Time seems to disappear when you are caring for three children.

She is sure of what she wants and is quite the communicator. If you interpret what she says in the wrong way, she lets you have it!

She follows Lillian around and repeats everything she says. "No, I don't want it," is her favorite phrase. "Mine" is a word she learned from...hmmm...could it be Lillian? She loves to tell me all about her "stinky poo-poo" during diaper changings. "More sghetti," was repeated over and over again the other night during supper. The child eats more than Asher! Eden likes her "blankie" and throws a fit if she can't reach it or it gets stuck somewhere...

She runs everywhere now. She got her first big "boo-boo" at the park on Sunday. She absolutely refused to wear a band-aid and today fell and was bleeding profusely...so I made her wear a Barbie band-aid. She cried at first because she wanted it off but I didn't give in and when she got over it she walked around the house saying "band-aid" again and again...

Just a few things...

Eden is suddenly obsessed with playing in my car and playing with Asher's Hot Wheels. Lilli never even looked at one of Asher's cars. Eden is driving them around and saying "vroom vroom."

Lilli is doing a lot of cutting, drawing, and glueing. Yesterday, she told me she was going to "practice the piano." She was playing and asking me "What note should I play? A G or a C?"

Since the weather has been so nice and mild lately, I've been leaving the back door open and the girls have been playing on the deck in the morning. There is a lot of shoveling sand into a bucket of water, and stirring, and getting wet...

Eden gets to run around in her diaper to prevent too many changes of clothes. So, Lillian has discovered the freedom of no clothes!

Asher has been tweaking his bicycling skills by joining in almost daily "races" with his friends. I think they've even named their bicycling posse. (I'm not sure of their official title.)

Lillian is playing with three horses while I type this...one is the "mama horse" and the other two are the babies! Of course...

That's all folks!

Bike Lessons

Teaching Lillian to ride her pink princess bike is both a joy and a major pain! She refuses to use her brakes. This has resulted in one major wreck - she went flying through the air and landed on her stomach. Ouch...

She knows that hills produce speed and that getting up a hill takes a lot of effort. Thus, the frustration of hills (especially for me who is also pushing Eden in the stroller with one hand)! My only joy in hills is that before every one of them Lillian asks, "Is that/this quite a hill?" I suppose she got that from listening to me say, "Okay, get ready to use your muscles - this is quite a hill."

Anyway, there is a lot of crying during bike lessons but also a lot of pride (and smiles) when Lillian says, "Look, mama, I can go fast on my bike!"

TOO CUTE!

The girls are being too cute lately! Eden is always asking, "What happened?" and "What is it?" - I can't believe how much she is saying. She also has recently started "counting". I say "one", and she says "two" until we reach ten and then she says "All done!" Very cute!

Lillian was applying lotion this morning because "my body's kind of rusty." When we were laying down for a nap the other day, she started telling me "somedays my eyes have dreams when they go to sleep." Isn't that the sweetest?

Marshmallows by Lilli

I was looking through my pictures and found these of Lillian and was reminded of a funny happening. At our church retreat on Memorial Day weekend, we were going to have a marshmallow roast. Lilli definitely knows what marshmallows are and likes their sugary sweetness a lot! Anyway, Brother Mark asked her if she liked her marshmallows brown or black. She looked up at him (he's about 6'4") and said quite matter-of-factly, "I like my marshmallows white."

Someday this will be embarrassing...

But aren't they cute?

Hilarious!

Two quick funny moments:

Eden was at Oma's house the other day and wanted to use the potty after seeing Stella on it. Oma took Eden's diaper off and let her sit on the potty without emptying Stella's pee. Eden DID NOT pee and stood up and looked in the potty. When she saw Stella's pee Eden got very excited and said, "me pee pee potty - me pee pee potty!" Oma said she sat down and got up and said "me pee pee potty" fifteen or so times. Maybe potty training will be easy!

Lillian was having a snack the other day and she casually asked, "What's an idiot made of ?" Dwight and I cracked up! What a question from a three year old...maybe she'll discover the answer some day!

Have a great day!

A Corny Tale

Papa has a huge garden.

He grows delicious, sweet, candy corn!

Asher helped Papa pick it, husk it, and silk it.

Lillian collected worms for Papa's chickens.

Oma and Mama cut the corn off of the cob to freeze for Thanksgiving and Christmas!

Everyone (including Eden) ate a "batch" of corn on the cob for lunch at Grandmother's house.

Yummy!

Package from Grammy!

Grammy Hamlin sends the kids a package about every other month. Usually for a birthday or a holiday. The latest package was a "going on vacation" assortment of goodies. She always sends an amusing card along with the package to explain who gets what...

The kids all got a notebook, a new activity placemat, Crayola Twistables, some funny lips, bug candy, etc. We always have a lot fun discovering Grammy's surprises!

Asher the Splasher!

Asher has been on the Maumelle Marlins swim team this summer and he's had a blast!

He went from a rocket under the water with absolutely no "swimming skills" to speak of to a freestyle, backstroke, butterfly, breast stroke, streamlining wonder in the water!

We can't believe how much he has learned!

He's had a great time learning new skills, getting plenty of exercise, and making new friends! What fun!

He qualified for all four events at the "Meet of Champs" at UALR this Saturday. Wish him luck - we'll be there cheering him on!

Maumelle Marlins -

the true story of a little fish.

There was a little fish

Who made a little splish

His name was Asher

Wow! What a splasher -

His mama wanted him busy

So she flew into a tizzy

And found the perfect thing

The Maumelle Marlins Swim team!

Asher already knew how to swim

He was active and very trim

But now that he knows all his strokes

Even Daddy can't tell any jokes

At backstroke he's simply the best

And improving at all the rest

Like swimming the Butterfly

He doesn't even have to try

With Breaststroke and Freestyle

He could cover mile after mile

Asher, you've made us so proud

We want to shout out loud

"What great things you have learned

and you didn't even get sunburned!"

Just some good pics!

Well, I can at least add some of the kids' latest antics too. Eden is really talking...no, I mean REALLY TALKING! I'm even surprised at how well my (almost) 20 month old speaks -

She leaned over to Oma today and whispered in her ear, "Papa take me riding on tractor." She is also so sweet when she says "my mama", "I love you, Daddy", and "read book, mama." She is also into what is whose..."Asher's chair," "Lilli's pancake." She gets extremely excited if someone mentions "swimming" and runs to find her "badin' suit." Dyron mentioned the other day how she calls all vehicles "car coming" and she calls the ice cream and garbage truck "school bus." She has to wiggle or dance around when her diaper is off and say "naked booty" over and over again! What a joy!

Lillian is dressing herself - sometimes this means everything is put on backwards. She is also showing favoritism for her purple shoes. Her sandals are usually put on the wrong feet but she claims "they're more comfortable" that way. She tells Asher she can read and tries to prove it by picking up well-loved books and "reading" them to him.

Asher is actually sitting down at the piano (umprompted) and playing some of his favorites during the day - "Snake Dance" and "Home on the Range" being constants lately! He's been building with his Legos again (after a long hiatus) - I think the summer doldrums are hitting him.

They are all enjoying the pool. Lillian learned how to swim on her own (under water) and is getting braver by the minute. Eden is following in her footsteps and will jump into the water and swim to you. It's really amazing! She knows how to hold her breath and she loves to swim!

This summer has flown by... 

NAPTIME!

Eden has some unusual sleeping habits -

she likes to cover her head with her blanket

and fall asleep in some weird places (Papa's tractor must make a soothing sound)!

Poise!

The other evening Asher and Lillian were dancing for me. Asher was quite spastic and high energy in his dance "show." Lillian was very slow and graceful while showing me her "ballet." I told her when she started ballet class she would learn about poise. She looked at me and said (with a furrowed brow), "I don't need no boys to teach me how to dance!"

Melts my heart...

Dyron was out of town a few nights last week and I can get a bit stressed dealing with all three children by myself. Asher and I had a few bad exchanges during the day and that evening I talked to him about my anger and we forgave each other for our rude behavior towards each other. We cried, hugged, and decided to try our best to treat each other with love.

Before story time that evening Asher said, "Mama, you're the second person who's cried today. Oma cried while she was reading us a story this afternoon. It was that story about the boy whose mama sings him that song..."  Well, I knew he was talking about the book, "I love you forever." (If you haven't read it - it's a must read.)

Anyway, he started crying when he was explaining the story to me...about how the mama gets old and the boy (who has turned into a man) sneaks into his mother's room and sings her the song she has always sung to him. It was one of the most touching experiences of my life! What a sweet boy I have in a son. He was totally relating the book to his own life! He reached over and hugged me and said, "Mama, I WILL always love you." (But not as much as I already love you, Asher!)

Roller skatin'

It was a hot August day

and the last week of summer

the kids sat around sweatin'

the day was a bummer.

We didn't know what to do

we didn't know where to go

How could the last week of summer

being going by so slow?

Then the phone started ringing

we ran to pick it up

Aunt Mandie said we could go skating

for only a buck!

We drove all the way to Conway

(never mind the cost of gas)

to meet our friends at the skate rink

and have a total blast!

The sky is falling...

We just returned from our second annual Labor Day at Virginia Beach celebration -

Nothin' like a little hurricane, takin' the long way to the beach (the tunnel was flooded), Rock-n-Roll Half Marathon, three gorgeous sunny days on the beach, waves worthy of a boogie board, cable television, all the live music we could stand, two aunties (Carmen and Shannon), one uncle (Ty), Grandy, Grammy, lots of seafood, and plenty of fun!

On the plane headin' to Virginia, Lillian looked out the window and exclaimed, "Oh no, the clouds fell down!" (We were flying above the clouds.)

Anyway, a fantastic time was had by all. (Only a little sickness - Lillian developed the usual "croopy" cough.) We're already looking forward to next year!

Back to school

THE FIRST GRADE!

I'm a little behind -

give me a break!

I was just comparing Asher's Kindergarten pics to his First Grade pics.

Has he grown?

Dyron took him to school on the first day and was going to walk him into class (most parents were) but Asher said, "Dad, I don't need you to walk me to my classroom. I'm a first grader!"

Calm down, mama!

Eden is extremely cute these days! At 22 months, she is a little personality walking around in diapers. 18 months to 2.5 years is always my absolute favorite stage in a child's development. I always think "wow, they change a lot from infancy to one year." Yeah - physically...but the stage Eden is in right now is intellectually phenomenal!

She follows Lilli around (when Lilli permits her to) and repeats everything she says. It's hilarious!

If I ask her, "Do you want milk on your cereal?" she answers "Want milk on cereal."

She hollers from the back seat of the Honda, "Brother's botherin' me!" Asher can't get away with anything because Eden can tell me exactly what he has done!

She also sang from the backseat for the first time the other day (Lilli wasn't in the car talking a mile a minute) and I loved it!

Her first reaction to things not going her way/or as planned in her mind is to throw a fit. This consists of stomping up and down on her feet, holding her breath before she lets out a scream, and a general good hollerin'! When she does decide to calm down, it is instantaneous - Dyron trained her to stop crying when he says "Stop!" at a young age.

I am in the beginning stages of potty-training Eden. Thursday, I must have sat her on the potty 35-40 times and nothing went into it! We only went through six pair of underwear, so I guess she really doesn't go that often. Well, at one point, I'm explaining to her that she needs to go sit on her potty and she says, "Calm down, mama." I couldn't believe my ears! I said, "Excuse me?!" She said, "Calm down, mama." again - it was so hilarious!

Her current favorite songs are: "The Papa Song", "The Kingdom (is a wonderful place)", and "There was a little boy named David" (or "The David boy" song). She usually asks for "one more time" when singing her nighttime songs and she always wants a hug after a kiss.

What a sweet girl!

Dancing Queen

Lillian started "dance" this past Tuesday. She has been excited about this moment since she saw her first "Angelina Ballerina" DVD. We shopped for her tap shoes, ballet slippers, pink tights, and new dance bag a few weeks ago. Little girls are so precious!

She will have 20 minutes of tap, 20 minutes of ballet, and 20 minutes of gymnastics once a week. I told her to pay attention and listen to her teacher's (Ms. Charity) instructions. And she did! We (the parents) get to view the class through a small window - Lil was quite attentive and seemed to love every minute!

On the way home, she asked if Ms. Charity could "come to my house." I remember falling in love with my first grade teacher and I wondered if that was what she was feeling... it's so bittersweet to witness their innocence about life. As a mother, I want that innocence to last forever for my children.

Bundles!

Getting out of the bath tub tonight Eden wanted me to "bundle" her. This means wrap her up like a burrito in the bath towel and lift her into the air. Only Daddy is strong enough to lift the girls - they love it!

After Lilli's bath, she had to find her "flippers" to wear - her term for slippers!

What memories...

Bike ride

Yes, this is how Lilli was dressed to go on a bike ride last week. I'm not sure why she needed the floaties on her bike - we weren't going anywhere near any water! She has quite an imagination - who knows what she was thinking???

Finger painting

I finally got the girls some art paper -

Let the finger painting begin!

Eden's first response was to dip her finger in the red paint and try to eat it!

Eden's second response was to paint her face...

Hmm...maybe she's not ready for art yet!

Seven years old!

I can't believe it!

My firstborn is seven!

I was feeling lazy this year - so I chose to make cupcakes (I always prefer homemade). I found some "skeleton bones" to go with the "theme" of his party. He was really interested this summer in the anatomy book at the chiropractor's office so I bought him a human body book and a skeleton shirt. Aunt Mandie bought him a human body game. Daddy got him a skateboard with a skeleton on it. He loved it all!

Happy Birthday, Asher!

Cutest...

Lil says the cutest things...

I was wearing my "Big Dam Bridge" shirt at dinner tonight and she asked, "What was the name of that bridge? The one you and Daddy ran over?" (Of course, she doesn't stop talking long enough for me to answer her.) "Is that Pinnacle Mountain?" (pointing to my shirt) "Maybe we could name it Pinnacle Mountain Bridge."

I told her, "I think that's a good name." She continues, "Or we could call it the Dam Bridge." "Okay..." "Or maybe the Puppy Dog Bridge..."

My sweet Lil.

Skeleton!

We've had this skeleton hanging up since Asher's birthday party and it's an interesting addition to our family! The kids are always messing with it - putting it into new positions. I find it amusing!

Baseball tournament

Asher had two games today - I missed the first but enjoyed seeing some "monkey business" during warm-up for the second game. Asher had two good hits but didn't realize he could "run through" first and slowed down just enough to get thrown out at first base on both hits. Oh well - he's learning! He seemed to enjoy learning more about the game and hitting the baseball this fall season. I know I enjoyed watching him!

Happy Fall Y'all!

Just some cute pics of the kids dressed up in their Halloween shirts.

Obession!

Eden is OBSESSED with this "Itsy Bitsy Spider Book." She wants me to read it to her five times in a row! She is so cute right now - learning new concepts a mile a minute! No wonder this is my favorite age...

Big Girl Bed!

We ordered the girls some new beds a few weeks ago. Daddy got busy and had them assembled in no time! Unfortunately, I was not ready to work on the girls' room...(I'm trying to stay in my budget).

Eden doesn't seem to care about the completion of her room - she's already sleeping soundly in her new bed!

"Let me do it!"

Eden is becoming "Miss Independent" more and more with each passing day. "Let me do it" is her favorite phrase. And you'd better let her or she will throw a fit!

She loves shoes! Anyone's shoes - especially Lilli's! She's also starting to "dress up." And she sings - all of the time..."Itsy Bitsy Spider," "Wheels on the Bus," "Five Little Ducks..." And her request list at night is getting longer and longer..."Catch a Falling Star," "Love you, love you," "Papa, Papa..." - what an angel... 

I call my children Pete (Asher), Repeat (Lillian), and Three-peat (Eden). If I just let myself relax and not worry about the house, dinner, being the "perfect mom" I have so much fun with my children. Every time I let my responsibilites interfere, I become "Mommy Dearest!" I want my children to remember a smiling, singing, dancing mama -

CHERISH THE MOMENT!

Carvin' It!

Punkin' Carvin' Time at the Hamlin house -

Daddy is in New Orleans (again).

Asher was home today sick.

We needed something to do -

"Are we going to carve our pumpkin?" Asher asks. "That sounds like a great idea!" says Mama. (That sounds like a lot of work for Mama.) But it was fun! And the picture session was even better.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Artistry

No, I'm not talking about the leaves. Lillian has just started drawing and I am so interested in the progression of children's drawing, writing, etc. (I've got to save some artwork for my "Child Development" classes I plan to teach in the near future!)

Anyway, here's a sample of a 3-year-olds art.

PBJs

Lilli wanted to make her own PBJ for lunch the other day, so I thought what a good learning experience for her. Well, Eden decided she wanted to join in the fun too! (I let her put the jelly on...) They did a good job and had fun making a mess in the process. Who needs Montessorri when you've got Mamassorri!

Leaves

We enjoyed the warm day on Friday by staying home and playing in the leaves. The girls had a great time helping me mulch the pansies. It always takes extra time and makes an extra mess but I really think letting the girls help me is important for them.

Retired Tutu

I made an executive decision this weekend. Lilli's favorite tutu was passed down to Eden. Her beloved tutu (which was worn almost every day for the past two weeks) was way too small (being a 2T and Lilli getting close to her fourth birthday). It was well-loved and Lilli was extremely mature in her acceptance of letting it go...

POTTY TRAINING...

the third time around isn't any easier...

Yesterday, I plunged head first into the pool of potty training with Eden. As usual, I was regretting my decision. Doubting my ability. Needing a break...from the reading...the puzzles...the singing...the crying...the questions ("Do you need to use the potty?" "Do you need to pee pee?" "Do you need to poo poo?") Constantly reminding Eden every five minutes -

When I potty train, I go 100%. NO MORE DIAPERS! And, for the record, PULL-UPS ARE DIAPERS! Just put them side by side and do a comparison test for yourself. If it looks like a diaper and acts like a diaper - it's a diaper...

Anyway, she is doing what I have found to be normal for the second day. I actually braved the "outside world" and took her to the library for story time. I took two clean training pants with me. She used them both - I sat her on the potty three times but she still wet her pants. By the end of our thirty-minute outing, she was pantless, sockless, and shoeless...but her underwear was dry when we returned home!

Right before her nap, she said (with a panic in her eyes), "I have to go to the potty..."

I said, "Hurry!"

And she pooped! YAHOO!

I will train anyone's child for one million dollars! Any takers???

Lillian

I took Lilli to dance class tonight. I was in and out of the studio - so glad I walked back in for this cute moment. Ms. Charity was asking them where they wanted to go to relax (while they were stretching) in their mind. One little girl said, "To the beach." Lilli replied, "To the candy store."

She has quite the sweet tooth as reflected in her statement!

These boots are made for walking...

and dancing...

and running...

not to mention - they go with everything!

Lilli loves her boots.

Almost as much as her tutu.

She also loves posing in her boots.

Terrible Twos???

I like to call them the "trainable twos" -

Eden has completed potty-training! We still have to encourage her to take the time to poo-poo, but the accidents are few and far between now.

Last weekend was crazy! We took Lilli to a sleepover at Faith's house (she kept calling it a "sleep-in") and Asher had a basketball game on Friday night. Saturday morning we picked Lilli up and headed to Bentonville for Shiloh's 7th birthday party. We spent the night and then attended church the next morning at the Fayetteville Ecclesia. It's always good to be around good friends! We left Fayetteville around noon to make it home by 3 pm. We then rushed around and had the house in order (somewhat) for Eden's 2nd birthday party at 4 pm!

Two-year-old birthday parties are the bane of my existence...they are too young to have friends, it's not their much anticipated first birthday, what do you do???

I decided to have a "mamassorri" birthday. I let them spread their own icing and choose their own sprinkles on their cupcakes. We then opened presents and watched the kids fight over them!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EDEN!

MISSION COMPLETE!

I'm done with diapers!

Yes, it's true!

The potty is the new place

for all the pee and poo-poo!

2 many presents...

Don't get me wrong. I'm not a Scrooge. I love the thought of Christmas gifts, the season, the family dinner. But, in my personal opinion...there are too many gifts! I was extremely conservative in the gifts for our children - Eden got one. But it's all the other people! I want my children's eyes to "light up" at a gift. But I see less and less of that with more and more gifts...

My children had gifts five different times. At our house. At Papa and Oma's. At Grandy and Grammy's. At Grandpa and Grandma's (money). And then again with Savannah and Abigail. The one gift at a time is actually the best scenario. They can focus. Appreciate. And remember to say "thank you."

Only 356 shopping days left...

2 sick girls

Lillian and Eden are starting the year off with fever, runny noses, and coughs. They are pitiful. Needy. Whiny. But extra snuggly!

Pneumonia

Lilli was diagnosed with pneumonia this morning. After 4 days of fever, we took her to the doctor. She just wasn't improving and I was getting worried. Praise God for access to medicine. Eden only has your basic cold. Now, we are getting some antibiotics into Lilli. She was a very brave girl when she had to get a shot. We took her to Target and got her some Princess toothpaste and some chocolate!

Let the healing begin...

Bipolar Mom

It has been a trying week for me. I can take the chore of attending to the sick for 3...maybe 4 days...but 10 days!

I'm up.

I'm down.

I'm yelling.

I'm speaking in a soothing voice.

I'm loving.

I'm (dare I say it) spanking.

I told Dyron tonight in a message on his cell phone (he's in Chicago - how convenient), "All a 34-year-old woman with three children wants for her birthday is no knowledge that those three children exist and then a romantic date with no specific bedtime because she won't know she has three kids the morning after her birthday either."

I was explaining this message to Asher (because when do you actually get any privacy?) and he quipped, "Oh, you want to go to a fancy hotel for a few days?"

I said, "No, I would just like to have PEACE. Time to leisurely clean the bathroom. A minute to converse with a friend on the phone without having to break up a fight, tell someone to be quiet, or take Eden to the potty. Five minutes in one day without someone saying, "Hold you, Mama." (I used to love that phrase.) No boogers. No wiping butts. No combing out honey in a child's hair while they scream and try to run away. No explaining why you can't throw books at the cat...."

He was looking at me in a very concerned way and I decided I better end my rant...

It's been a hard week.

No cute pictures.

Just reality!

And yes, Lilli is feeling better.

Cereal

Yes, this is an entry about cereal.

I get my kids a box of worthless calories once every few months. Froot Loops, Sugar Smacks, etc. When I buy these cereals for them, it is their breakfast/snack/supper of choice - it is all they want to eat. So, I let them gorge themselves on cereal for a few days (the boxes usually last two days!) until it runs out...

A pedometer was in one of the boxes of cereal. It was quite the entertainment on Saturday morning! Asher ran around with it until he had taken 2629 steps! The girls were chasing him this entire time. So, I didn't feel so bad about the cereal because they got some good exercise out of the deal!

Brother

Big brothers are mostly irritating...but they can be GREAT when they put their mind to it!

Mama's Ipod

I was listening to my Ipod the other day and Eden wanted to take a turn. "Harder to Breathe" by Maroon 5 was playing and she sat and listened to the entire song. I heard it switch to the next song and she looked at me and said, "I want the other song - harder and harder." Exactly the reason Mama is picky about what her children hear...my two-year-old can remember lyrics!

Doesn't this make you smile?

Photo Shoot!

The girls looked so cute the other day I decided to have a photo shoot! 

Time for Creativity

I continue to stand firm on my anti-cable tv and video games stance. My son is so creative! When he's not terrorizing his sisters, he's so imaginative. He built this entire "robot" himself. He was so excited to show me! It was complete with insides too - batteries, playdoh brains, CD player command center, etc. It's so amazing what kids come up with when they are not tv/video game zombies.

Third time's a charm

Asher knocked himself in the face with a bar stool on Sunday night. Ice was applied, Ibuprofen administered, and the swelling was nominal. (He still has bruising.)

Eden got knocked in the face with a ping-pong paddle by cousin Levi on Tuesday evening (accidental). Blood was pouring from her nose and mouth, she almost passed out, mama almost passed out...Aunt Mandie helped calm us both down...ice was applied, and the bruising was nominal.

Asher got punched in the eye by his "friend" at school on Wednesday. Luckily, the kid must not pack too much punch - no bruising or swelling.

And Dyron still hasn't gotten a new pair of glasses. (He broke his frames about three weeks ago.)

Lilli is four!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LILLIAN!

It was already slated to be a special day because of Lilli's birthday...but "snow" added to the fun! Daddy even got to go in late to work, so we were all together for a biscuit, sausage, and eggs breakfast. Lilli opened her presents (a new dance outfit, polka-dot skirt (to match her favorite pink boots), a stuffed horse, some miniature horses and foals, and a new puzzle) and loved them all. She quickly got dressed in her new purple leotard and skirt! We made cupcakes and homemade buttercream frosting and snuck one in before lunch. No nap ("because I'm four now") and "George of the Jungle" with Asher while Eden slept. A fire in the fireplace, a photo session with mama, and cheese dip for supper. Sounds like a fun day for a four year old!

Sick...again

Yes, Lilli and Eden are sick again!

Fevers, coughs, runny noses...the usual.

I told Grammy I put their hair in pigtails today to increase their "cuteness factor" so I would be more patient with them...no...really.

With Dyron away all week.

And little sleep.

(They've been waking up a few times during the night - I'm reminded of what a zombie I felt like with a newborn.)

It's been hard on a mama.

But, then I start counting my blessings.

I have medicine to reduce their fevers.

Clean water to give them to drink.

Good food to feed them.

Warm beds to tuck them into at night.

And most of all, I get to stay home with them and soothe their aches!

Praise God!

Lilli's Birthday Celebration!

I decided after last year and some anxiety (which is not a normal characteristic of mine) to start having family birthday parties. I was missing out on my children's smiles and reactions to their cakes, gifts, guests when I tried to have a large party. Anyway, Lilli only had one guest this year for the stallion show and it still went "wrong." Her only guest, Faith, got sick!

Oh well! We still had a good time and Lillian had a Happy Birthday (isn't that the goal?). I made the cake and was happy with the results (plus, it was quite delicious). The chili dogs and cheese dip were a hit with Lilli. Everyone had a great time!

Happy number four, my darling!

Asher's Valentines

Enjoy a "heart"y laugh reading through some of Asher's Valentine wishes for his classmates!

"You know what your the funniest girl I've ever met..."

"I can't wait to get whatever you are going to give me."

"I like to make you laugh."

"Stop touching me."

"Stop hugging me."

"I dare you to grab six pencils off of Ms. Thomas' table..."

"What were you going to tell me on Monday?"

"I'm sorry I'm trying to be your puppy."

"I think you should be a rock star."

"It's fun to go down the slide."

"Stop talking like a baby that's what I have to tell my little sister."

"I am not your boyfriend."

and my personal favorite...

"Don't you think we should stop telling lies?"

He wrote personal notes on all of his Valentine cards with no suggestion or prompting from me. I thought it was hilarious!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

What day is it?

2007 has been dubbed "the sick year" by this mama. WOW! Lillian has had pneumonia, unexplained fevers, coughing, runny nose, vomiting, diarhea...

Eden has had all of the above minus the pneumonia.

Asher has faired better but has missed about three days of school this year due to illness.

It is no wonder women were created "biologically stronger" than men. We have to be to care for our sick children! I have been popping Vitamin C, my multi-vitamin, Airborne, trying to eat healthy, (forget about exercising), trying to get enough rest (yeah right!), and attempting to remain calm when cleaning up the 5th throw-up mess in as many hours!

I think I did at least four loads of laundry every day this past week. I changed all of our beds at least three times each. Pillowcases twice a day. I feel qualified now to call myself a nurse.

So, now you all know what I've been doing...not getting my nails done, not shopping for some new clothes, NOT RUNNING, not laying on the beach...but being a mama!

The Cure

Daddies and kitties always know how to make a sick baby feel better!

Tiny Dancers

These pictures were actually taken before the girls got sick. Eden had a little trouble with her Snow White high heels and Lilli's "Hello Kitty" tights were just the right touch for her ensemble. Enjoy!

Privacy

Privacy matters in the Hamlin household - yeah right! I have taught all of my children to "give mama some privacy" when I'm in the bathroom. They all started requesting "I need some privacy please" at the ripe old age of two. My mother has gotten many laughs from this request through the years - it is pretty funny to hear such a little child asking for privacy!

Anyway...tonight Lillian was changing into her nightgown in her closet. She has to "put on her lotion", always change her panties (even if they are clean), etc. Well, she was taking her "own sweet time" as usual and I asked her to get her nightgown on..."I need some privacy please" was her reply. She wanted to close the closet door...long story short...I said "just get your nightgown on." She started crying and I asked, "Why are you crying?" and she answered, "I don't want anyone to see me naked." She had been standing there naked in front of me, Asher, Daddy, for the past five minutes. (Not to mention also scampering down the hall.)

Kids - go figure...

Sparkly Shoes

A trip to Target.

We were supposed to be buying Asher some new pants for school...

but the girls got distracted by the shoes!

Imagine...

This was actually our third trip where Lillian noticed the "sparkly shoes." I'm all about doing battle with this "instant gratification" gene modern Americans seem to have - so, I put off the purchase until yesterday. Lillian was estatic! And has been wearing them non-stop. (Yes, the pink cowgirl boots are in the closet.)

No pants were found at Target - so on to Old Navy. Five pair were purchased - then on to the mall. If you can believe it...this was Lillian and Eden's first trip to Park Plaza. In fact, their first trip to any "inside mall." We headed straight to Victoria's Secret (I had a $10 off coupon and needed a new bra) after a lot of fun in the elevator and on the escalator! Quick trip - I knew exactly what I wanted and was not distracted. Then the girls noticed Build-A-Bear. I informed them there would be no purchases but we could "look." They complied and watched another little girl's bear getting stuffed. I did "give in" to Chick-Fil-A and some cookies. Then back on the escalator and the elevator and home.

Maybe we'll get to the mall in another two years or so!!!

Bub's Boo-Boo

This is what happens when you go out of town for the weekend. Asher and Levi were being boys and tragedy struck. Asher's forehead and the curb had a fight - and the curb won! He was a brave boy. Aunt Mandie took him to the emergency room and the doctor "glued" his cut shut. (Mama's secretly glad she didn't have to witness the event - I probably would have fainted!)

We're home.

And Asher's healing nicely!

Polar Bear Plunge!

As soon as the weather turns warm the kids want to jump into the pool. We always have to tell them it takes the water until about mid-May to warm up enough to actually enjoy a swim. Nonetheless, Asher wanted to jump in...

So, he and his friend from next door, Josh, took the 1st Annual Polar Bear Plunge at the Hamlin house. It was hilarious! Josh jumped in first and the look on his face was one of SHOCK! Asher then took the plunge - he swam to the ladder and scurried up and out of the pool in a matter of seconds...What fun!

Good Idea...Bad Idea...

CTEH (Dyron's company where he works) moved to a brand-new office last Friday. Since D was out-of-town, I decided to help him by packing up his office. Thursday morning, the girls and I headed to Little Rock on what I thought would be a "fun adventure." Boy, was I wrong...

Let's begin with Eden...she has this major stranger anxiety thing going on...she cries, says "hold you" over and over again, and gives everyone she meets dirty looks when we are around "strangers." This is basically how she acted the entire time we were at the office.

Now...on to Lillian...basically, she decided to pet Dyron's dead cactus on his desk. This resulted in lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots of microscopic needles in her right hand and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots of crying.

I succeeded in my mission of packing up D's office and hoped that lunch at Chili's would be a little better. Lilli was still was in misery but Eden calmed down and slurped up some queso. On to Target...which always makes us girls feel better! Both girls fell asleep in the car on the way home...aahhh...great adventures never go as planned when children are involved but they sure make funny stories!

New Dresses from Grammy!

The girls looked so pretty on Sunday morning I just had to snap their picture! Grammy sent them the dresses - thanks!

Baby Snapping Turtle

Asher's Spring Break is complete! He found a baby snapping turtle at Papa's pond and Daddy let him keep it. Kudos for Dyron and his Daddysorri lesson - he let Asher research on the Internet what the turtle needed to eat, the environment he needed to live in, etc. Dyron got out the huge fish tank and helped Asher make "Sonic" comfortable...let's hope he survives.

Lillian looks for her Toucan at the St. Louis Zoo

When we started talking about going to the St. Louis Zoo for Spring Break, Lillian started immediately planning her wardrobe. She insisted on wearing her "Toucan shirt" and she couldn't wait to find the toucan. It was late afternoon before we made it to the "Bird House." She immediately said, "Mama, a toucan! A toucan!" My silly negative attitude answered with, "That's not a toucan." Well, it was! She was so excited! "I told you mama. I found my toucan."

This Day

Lillian and Eden have an interesting way of saying - "yesterday, today, and tomorrow." Everything is "last day, this day, or next day." Asher never used these terms. I find it interesting and funny that both of my girls use these expressions. Maybe it's because they are "Pete and Repeat!"

Dancing in the Driveway

A few weeks ago, I took Lillian to her dance class and left Eden at home with Dyron. Eden was crying when we left and saying, "I want to go to dance." Dyron consoled her by telling her she could put her dancing clothes on after she ate her supper. She led Dyron to her closet and told him, "I want that leotard and that skirt." He helped her get dressed and she ran outside and danced in the driveway - waiting for Lillian and I to return home. As soon as I opened the door to get out of the car, she ran up to me and said, "Mama, I'm ready to go to my dance class!"

I have never put my children in a "class" before they were 3.5 years old. It's just one of my "rules." She's going to have a hard time waiting another year - maybe I'll break my rule this time!

Hippity Hop!

The Easter bunny showed up really late Saturday night (in the form of Aunt Martie)...so the kids enjoyed discovering three baskets filled with goodies on Sunday morning. Lilli helped Eden pull everything out of Eden's basket. "Look Eden...crayons!" "Look Eden...some suckers."

Asher explained to me there was no Easter bunny because the baskets (actually plastic pails) had bar codes on them!

I dressed the girls up in their dresses and sandals...even though...brrrr!!!! - it was a chilly day! We rushed off to church/meeting and then back home for a delicious lunch with Oma and Papa, Great Grandmother, Aunt Martie and Uncle Ross, Aunt Florence, Uncle Randy and Aunt Mandie, and Levi and Stella. I made a homemade lasagna which was nicely complimented with Martie's Greek salad, Papa's corn, Flo's garlic bread, and Mandie's strawberry pies!

The kids had a terrific time running around the yard looking for Easter eggs. We still had a lot of fun despite the cold weather!

Snapping Turtle Update...

We thought Asher had forgotten and left the turtle out somewhere in the yard. He was sure he had put him back in his habitat...Dyron searched the tank for him (with no luck). We moved the tank outside until we had a moment to clean it out...

I was talking to D on the phone while sitting out on the deck today and I saw...the baby snapping turtle swimming in the nasty water in the tank! Now, we're wondering if we should tell Asher or just let it go...

What do you think???

Little Artists

My girls love to color and paint. Eden especially likes to draw on her hands, arms, and the counter-top (where she sits on her stool) in the kitchen! I was tired of telling her she could only write on her paper...and it came to me...a magic-erase board! So, this morning I finally got around to hanging it in the downstairs hallway. They loved it! It occupied them for about 30 minutes! I got them their own little "rags" and put their markers in a jar. I did have to remind Eden a few times to put the lid back on the markers before she chose a new color.

I might purchase another one - my friend, Kim (who is training to be a Montessorri teacher and has three children of her own), suggested a magnetic board. I can buy some magnetic letters, numbers, and words for the girls to work on their pre-reading skills. Asher can also exchange messages with me and make up sentences! Thanks Kim for the suggestion! Summer's coming and I must keep them all busy... 

Hard Questions

Asher asked me on Monday night while we were watching some of "Dancing with the Stars" (with a lot of interruptions from Lillian dancing for us in front of the television...) - "What does sexy mean?" I told him it's what daddy thinks mama is when I dress up for a date. Or it's what mama thinks daddy is when he shows me his muscles! He seemed satisfied with that answer...I think I also threw in the word "attraction" in my definition.

Well, last night he asked me (while reading his Human Anatomy book I purchased for him when he was asking a lot of questions about our bodies and how they work) - "What does sex organ mean?" I told him boys had testicles..."oh you mean (fill in the blank)"...? I then asked him if he knew what was inside his testicles..."no." I explained about the sperm. I told him girls have ovaries and asked if he knew what was inside..."no." I explained about eggs.

He continued to look at the pictures in the book. We discussed how he looked liked the growing babies in the book when he was inside my belly. He continued to look...and think..."Wait a minute...how does the baby get inside your belly?" I took a long pause...as I thought of a factual way to explain sex to him. But he answered, "Oh, I know, it happens when you're sleeping!"

I said, "Yes - when husbands and wives sleep together they can make babies." This answer satisfied him (for now) and then he wanted to know how he started out as a cell and became a boy...on to more interesting subjects!

I know the hard questions are just beginning. I plan to be open and honest and provide him with the facts. And, of course, the support and love he'll need to make it to adulthood! What a challenge - am I ready????? 

Say what?

Kids say the funniest things...and if I don't "write" them down immediately I WILL FORGET!

On the way home from Mandie's house this afternoon, Lilli starting asking, "Do people turn into bones when they die?" I explained to her that all people turn into bones and then dust when they die. I then started into how God created Adam from the "dust of the ground" and he gave him the "breath of life." She started crying in the back seat..."I don't want to turn into bones! Do I have to turn into bones?" I assured Lilli if she learned what God expected of her and did her best that even if she died and "turned into bones" God could bring her back to life. She seemed alright with this answer. It's normal for 4-5 year olds to obsess about death. They're just trying to figure it all out - but a mama sure has to have some strange discussions!

When I was putting Eden to bed tonight, she had a small, pink, bouncy ball and a tennis ball in a scarf. She explained to me, "This is the baby ball and the mommy ball. But where is the daddy ball?" Everything this week has been mommies and babies! It's so fascinating to watch a child (especially your own) grow and develop - there is change every day!

I am currently reading "The Power of Play" by David Elkind. I will be giving a synopsis of this book soon. So far, (I'm on chapter four) it's excellent! I heard him discussing his book on NPR back in September and had been anxiously awaiting its arrival at the library...

I just finished reading "The Glass Castle" by Jeanette Walls. READ IT! It will make you think...think...think...thanks Carmen for recommending it.

Good run tonight with the girls. Super humid! 3.2 in 32. I just need more miles under my belt. Maybe I'll do my own "tempo" run tomorrow. Good night!

Say what? cont...

We were eating lunch at my Grandmother's house and we could hear a vehicle pull into the driveway. Grandmother asked, "Who's that?" Lillian ran to the door and said, "It's the brown truck that brings you boxes!"

Eden is still obsessing over mommies, daddies, and babies. She wants to know (in every book we read) - "Where's the mommy?" or "Where's the daddy?" or "Is that the mommy/daddy?" I remember Lilli going through this phase. She is also wrapping every stuffed animal/ baby in some sort of blanket - whether she uses a washcloth, dish rag, hand towel, etc.

I just ordered the girls their "itsy, bitsy, teeny, weeny, yellow, polka-dot bikinis" from Mini-Boden - we got Stella one too. I'm so excited about our beach trip with Grandy, Grammy, and all the girls coming up in a few weeks!

Reading

I think I've instilled the "love of reading" in my children. I'm looking forward to the day when they are all tucked in a different spot in the house "lost" in a book. Besides swimming, helping my dad in the garden, and having sleepovers, reading was a huge part of my summer vacations. My sister, Mandie, and I would each pick a porch swing and read...wrapped in our beach towels (a periodic dunk in the swimming pool was a must to keep cool) and before we knew it mom was announcing, "Time to set the table for supper!"

When Asher was a little boy, I wondered how long he would jump into bed with us for a nighttime story. Now that he's seven...he misses a few nights a week, but still joins in most evenings. It usually only last fifteen minutes or so, but the time shared is so precious.

Eden has memorized several books. She is also asking a BILLION questions while we read. "What is the lamb's name? What is the little girl's name? Where's the mommy? Is the turtle swimming in the pink water? What happened to the mouse?" And when you give her an answer, her response is always, "Oh."

I cannot stress enough to parents - reading is soooooooo important. Children learn so much from having their moms/dads/grandparents read to them! It introduces dialogue about so many subjects that probably wouldn't take place just from the normal activities of daily life. It teaches children how to sit and listen. They begin CRAVING books. My children are always asking me to "read to me, mama." I have a master's degree in speech pathology and having studied child development and the acquisition of language. READ TO YOUR CHILDREN! It will give them the head start in their education that nothing else can...

Asher and the Snake

On Saturday, Asher came to me and said, "The tadpoles are out...I'm going to catch some..." Okay. He was back from his mission in about an hour. His story went something like this...

"Mom! I found huge king snake in the ditch." "Are you sure it was a king snake?" (Rolling his eyes) "Yes, mom. I grabbed it by its tail...it was hhuuugggeee...my friends wouldn't get in the water with me...it whipped its head back and BIT ME!" (Me - with wide eyes) "Where? Are you sure it wasn't poisonous?" (Exasperated at my repetitive question) "MAMA!" "Sorry. So, what happened?" "It bit me in the hand and I flung it off!" "What did you do after that?" "I just stood there and watched it crawl away...and my friends said...whoa...you're like the Crocodile Hunter!" (Smiling) (Me too)

He did collect three tadpoles and a bunch of frog eggs. He's such a little naturalist!

Baby Chicks

My dad (Papa) bought an incubator (for hatching eggs) about a month ago and started playing "mama hen" to about 40 eggs. He turned them three times a day for 18 days...and then left them alone for three days...and then they started pecking their way out.

He had to help a few baby chicks out of their shells.

They have to "recover" for a few hours after they are born.

I found the similarities between human and chick births interesting. My children were amazed!

Now, they are all peeping and running around their pen! (And getting harder to catch.)

We named one of the black chicks "Happy Feet" and he/she (can't tell) is the girls' favorite!

Thanks Papa for the great learning experience!

Spring Baseball 2007

I haven't blogged about Asher's first season of "pitching machine." A lot more entertaining than t-ball...

He's done quite well with his hitting. He's improving every game with his defense. He's been playing pitcher and third base. This last game he got moved to the right field because he wasn't hustling as pitcher.

Dwight went with us on Wednesday night - this was especially exciting for Asher because his team's sponsor is The Lion's Club (which helps the blind). At the beginning of the season, when Asher discovered he would be playing for the Lion's Club, he couldn't wait to share the news with Dwight! "Mama, they're the people who help the blind!"

The game was getting depressing about the fourth inning - Asher's team was down 0 to 8...then the turn-around hit by Jacob. 2 runs for the Tigers! Then 3 additional runs! Then 3 more runs! Tied and no time remaining. Tigers got last ups for being the home team. One final run (I believe it was Jacob's third great hit of the game) and the Tigers won! What a comeback! Dwight was satisfied...

GO TIGERS!

Adventures in Shopping

I've mastered the art of grocery shopping with the girls. I can even manage with Asher occasionally thrown in the mix. But, take them somewhere new...

I keeping quizzing myself. What am I doing differently than I do at Kroger? Am I not clear enough on my instructions? Do the girls suffer from hearing loss?

On Wednesday, the girls and I accompanied Dyron, Trey, and Bonnie to lunch at Hunan's. (The girls are ANGELS in restaurants.) When does the transistion occur? It's not that they're horrible - just mischevious. It's not shopping with one - it's taking them together.

After lunch, we headed to Office Depot (I needed to pick out an inexpensive desk for Dwight) and the adventure began...Eden fell flat on her face TWO TIMES in a matter of five minutes. I would instruct her not to run...I would make sure I wasn't leaving her. (She's been frantic about me "leaving her" lately.) When she fell she let out one of her excessively LOUD cries! So, everyone noticed. I picked her up and hugged her close while telling her to stop running. I saw a sign for "paints," so I decided to check it out (the girls have used up almost all of their paint). Well, they noticed the stickers. Lilli wanted a "prize" so I gave in...it took her FOREVER to pick out a pack. And she wanted to influence Eden on her choice of stickers. Bossy, big-sister Lilli. 

Next stop...Academy Sports for kickboards for the pool. Eden found hers right away. Lilli wanted one with handles. We searched. We asked for help. No handles to be found...

Next stop...Kohl's. We were looking for a pair of "sparkly" flip-flops. Lillian pipes up, "Eden, let's play hide and seek!" I quickly let her know this would be unacceptable. She instead decides to help me look for flip-flops. In the meantime, Eden gets into a conversation with a saleslady...retail worker...crew member...whatever they are called now.

"You're making a mess!" Eden says. (The lady was on the floor with clothes everywhere.) "Are you old?" was her next question. "Are those your stickers?" she wanted to know (the lady was marking clothes down). She ended up having an entire conversation with this lady (who was a Grandma herself) and helping put "stickers" on some clothes.

We found some flip-flops for Stella and a shirt for Asher and headed to the register. On the way Eden announced she had to "go to the potty." (Kudos for Kohl's having a family restroom.) At the register, there was a 5-month old baby in her stroller. Eden couldn't resist. "Oh, what a pretty baby!" she exclaimed. She kept touching the baby (I don't think the aunt liked that) and said, "Oh, her little hands...her little nose..." The lady said, "You're pretty too." "I know..." was Eden's reply. "How old are you?" Eden said, "I'm ten and I'm big and nice."

As we made our way out to the Suburban, I was relieved to be going home. Eden insisted on carrying all of our purchases (except the desk) out of the stores. I let her be a "big girl" even though one of the bags was black from being dragged across the parking lot. What an adventure!

Have kids - you'll NEVER be bored! Frustrated, frazzled, exhausted, mad, unorganized, dirty, late...yes. But never bored! 

Playing School...

Go figure.

Asher's first day of summer break and he is "teaching school."

He's a very bossy teacher but the girls love the attention of their "bubs!"

The Language of Lil

besert  =  desert

drawlings  =  drawings

nakum  =  napkin

aminal  =  animal

nuffin'  =  nothing

rockamole  =  guacamole   (As in..."I love rockamole!")

Pictures of Summer

No words.

(Well, two...)

Sleep...?

I have photographed the kids over the years in their various and strange sleep positions. Lilli gave me a first the other night. We always "peek" at the kids before we turn in for the night. I thought Lilli was still awake...

She was sound asleep and standing on her feet!

Swim Season 2007

Here we go again! Four practices a week and Saturday swim meets.

Go Marlins!

Over and over again...

Eden loves the pool! She has adopted Lilli's fish floatie and jumps into the pool and swims to the steps over and over and over and over again! She has no fear...we have been working on her "respect" for the water. Dyron told her to "be careful" the other day and she said, "No, I can swim." He dropped her into the water (it's over her head) and showed her she couldn't swim yet without our support. She quickly learned the lesson. She continues to experiment with putting her head under, holding her breath, kicking her legs...she just needs to learn to use her arms to get her going in the right direction.

Lillian has become quite proficient at swimming under water. She can touch now in the shallow end and enjoys this new freedom! They want to go swimming every day - I don't mind - it's great exercise and gets them good and tired for afternoon naps.

Happy Father's Day 2007!

This was Dyron's favorite Father's Day gift...

Out to eat

Dwight needed to pick up a few things at Target before our trip...so we made it into a family excursion!

Target.

Boscoe's for dinner.

Pizza for the kids - then Eden and Lillian discovered my Caesar salad!

Munchin' down on mama's dinner.

Tales from the Mouth

This morning...
I'm fixing Eden a piece of toast. "Would you like jelly on your toast?" "Yes..." I'm putting jelly on her toast and she says, "That's not jelly...that's jam." "Well, sometimes it's called jam and sometimes it's called jelly." "No, mama, that's jam. It says on the top!" (It did say "Blackberry Jam" on the side of the jar.) Before I started freaking out too much, I took the jar over to Eden and asked her to point to the word "jam." She pointed to "Blackberry Jam" and said, "Read it, mama." (I've since proved to myself she's not reading...yet.)

At Oma's house...
I was busy canning and Eden was being fussy because she was running a low-grade temperature. I sat her on a stool near me and she said, (while pointing to the stove) "An E like in Eden!" I looked at all the words on the stove...Bake, Clear, Off, Time...then picked her up and asked her to point to the "E." She pointed to the "3" on the digital clock and then said, (while pointing to the digital 7) "an L like in Lilli."

So, she's figured out E and L. She definitely knows what words are because she points to words in books, in the newspaper, on the cereal box and says, "Mama, what do's this says?"

She's also quite the whiz at puzzles. She is suddenly obsessed with a stack of 25-piece interlocking puzzles I actually got out of the closet for Lil and Asher. She's like a machine putting together puzzles. It's been quite fascinating for D and I to watch!

Gotta love her!

Oh no!

In the first hour of our trip to Wisconsin, Dyron started freaking out because he left the DVD player from his laptop on his desk. I assured him the kids would be "just fine" without it.

Imagine...children riding in a car for eight hours with nothing but books, puzzles, music, dolls, a few stuffies, matchbox cars, some transformers, crayons, and paper to "entertain" them. They were terrific travel companions!

Anyway, good kids get ice cream!

This is how I feel...

right now.

Braids

I braided the girls' hair for the first time this morning. Lillian had a dentist appointment (no cavities!). They looked so cute!

When will I learn?

Lilli has been wanting to "go to the movies" the entire summer. I told her I would take her to see one of the free movies offered at a local movie theater - we finally got a chance and went to see "Happy Feet." We had seen it a few months ago at home...but the big screen was really good!

I debated on whether or not I should take Eden with us...and decided she was old enough to go to the theater. Well, waiting in the hot sun I started doubting my decision. She was clingy from the moment she saw all of the other kids. I thought she might freak out inside the theater - but she was really good during the movie.

Lilli had been to the dentist the day before and been given some coupons for a free ice-cream cone from Purple Cow. Lilli is always asking to "go eat at a restaurant" for lunch so I decided it would be a fun treat for the girls. Well, Eden cried over everything. She didn't want her letters on her coloring sheet colored black. She didn't want pickles on her plate. She didn't want so much mustard on her hot dog. I was quickly losing my patience...she lost it when her ice-cream was chocolate and she apparently wanted "white ice-cream!" Lilli and I endured her whining and crying but I was upset that our day out had been ruined by Eden's bad attitude.

Well, two minutes after we got in the car she was ASLEEP! She was exhausted and took a three-hour nap. Who knew? 

Hot Sauce!

My Friday morning was going better than usual...

I was in and out. Watering the yard. Washing, drying, and folding the clothes. Pulling some weeds. Washing the breakfast dishes.

The kids were watching a DVD.

Asher had requested some chips and hot sauce (yes, hot sauce...not salsa) (in fact, I think the name of the sauce is Scorned Woman). I fixed the girls a little snack too.

All of a sudden I hear screaming coming from upstairs. I can tell it's Eden. Don't know if it's serious or not. Then she continues screaming and comes down the stairs. I'm there to meet her at the bottom and ask what's the matter. She's spitting and screaming. It clicked very quickly...she ate a chip and hot sauce. (On her own - no coercion involved.)

I tried water.

I tried milk.

She continued screaming and spitting. I thought she might throw-up.

Then I remembered my peppermint oil. I put a drop in some ice water and she stopped screaming 10 seconds after she took a drink!

I highly recommend peppermint oil for every mom's "medicine cabinet." I use Young Living but you can purchase it at Wild Oats or from NOW Foods online. It has many uses. Takes the itch out of mosquito bites. Helps stuffed up kids breathe. Takes the sting out of wasp/bee/ant stings. Helps with aching tummies. Helps with a headache. Helps with sore muscles (for all you running mamas). And there are a million more uses!

Eden survived the hot sauce - the only remaining evidence of the tragedy are funny white bumps all over her tongue.

Green Pool

Despite the pool being green (our pump shorted out while we were on vacation), the kids are enjoying it!

Backyard Bible School

Our little ecclesia (church) has the benefit of some young "workers in the vineyard" this week. We are the recipients of three hard-working volunteers - Jen, Danielle, and Ty -who are spending a week in Arkansas to help others! They taught our kids a few Bible lessons, played games, made crafts, went swimming, and had a treasure hunt in my back yard. The kids had so much fun! We really appreciate all the work and planning that went into this incredible afternoon!

Treasure Hunt

Asher wanted me to make a treasure hunt for him this afternoon. I was busy packing for our trip, didn't have a "treasure", and  requested he make a treasure hunt for me. I asked him if he had a "treasure" for me and he assured me he did...

"go look under something soft and green."

"this is a hard one. go look under a boy and it's on top of a book."

"go look on dady's bedside tabel between something."

"look under ismplwoy (unscramble)"

"look under a pirate's tank."

Treasure:  "I will have my best behaver on the trip. I love you very very very very much."

What a treasure Asher is......

Swim Team Party and Awards

The Maumelle Marlins had another great year! Asher enjoyed swimming and  really improved on his breast and butterfly strokes. He competed individually and was on the "A-team" relay team for 8 and under. Congrats, Asher!

The girls will be joining him soon. Lil and Eden are both swimming like little fish!

The word was...

my pillows.

He's not a perfect speller yet!

Hair Twirlin' and Thumb Suckin'

Stella will get her fix wherever she can! Levi is used to her antics...but Lilli complained a few times on the trip. "Stella, your pulling my hair." or "Stella, feel your own hair!"

Too cute!

New Kittens

Dyron picked up our two new kittens while we were away on our trip. The kids were discussing potential names for the kittens the entire vacation. Asher, having just seen "Transformers" was considering Hard Top for the boy kitten's name. Lillian was toying with Convertible - which eventually changed to Fluffy Convertible. I was advising them to wait and meet the kittens before deciding on a name.

Luckily, Uncle Randy suggested Oreo for the black and white male kitten. And, I suggested Cookie for the gray and white female kitten. (Plus, I thought Oreo Cookie was a cute combination!) They both liked the names and it was settled! (Now, I have to get rid of their fleas...)

Summer Naps

What is better than a summer nap? After a long swim in the pool and some frolicking around the backyard in the afternoon heat, the girls are ready for some snoozin' in the air-conditioned house. Add two snuggly kittens...perfect summer nappin'... 

First Triathlon

Asher competed in his first triathlon on Saturday - the Conway Kids' Triathlon. 50 yard swim, 2 mile bike, 1/2 mile run. In the heat...

What a competitor! Actually, he looked extremely calm and focused during the race. When I asked him, "What was the hardest part?" He contemplated the question and answered. "The swimming -  my legs were so shaky I didn't know if I could walk. Wait, the biking...and the running - I was so tired."

He told us he really loved it and told us (after getting a drink), "I could have gone further!"

Congratulations, Asher!

Asher's Surgery:Act One

Asher is having a cyst removed from his back in the morning at 7 am. Which means we have to be at the Surgery Center at 6 am. Which means I have to wake up at 5 am. Which means I will need a Starbucks coffee! (I am not a before 7 am type of person.)

Our journey with this cyst began almost 8 years ago when I noticed a little bump on the back of my newborn son's left shoulder. The nurse and the pediatrician didn't seem concerned. I thought little of it over the next 6 years until we were at the beach for my sister's wedding. His "little bump" grew to be the size of a golf ball and then burst...pus came out for an hour...I could barely watch...

Then nothing...it practically disappeared for almost a year. Then reappeared this Spring. Changing...getting bigger...leaking...weird...I took him to the doctor. He referred us to a dermatologist. Who referred us to a plastic surgeon. So, it's going to be removed.

Asher and I have this little joke that the surgeon will find teeth and hair in his cyst. (I read a story about a cyst removed from a woman that contained teeth and hair.) He laughs, pats his shoulder affectionately, and says, "I'll miss you, brother." (No, we won't!)

Good run tonight. 2 miles - 9 minute miles. 1 additional mile at 11 minutes per...feeling good...sweatin'...praying for God to hold Asher in his hands tomorrow. He'll only have a "local" with a little "gas" to put his mind elsewhere...but I can't help but worry. So, I pray.

I've determined I must read for pleasure to keep my sanity. Get your hands on "The Knitting Circle." Great read. Every mother will bawl their eyes out. I so want to write a great novel...

Pray for Asher.

Asher's Surgery: Act Two

We're home and the cyst is not with us!

Everything went great with Asher's surgery. I even got some funny stories out of it -

They gave Asher some medicine to help put him to sleep and it was quite hilarious when it started "kicking in"... He said everyone had four eyes, he didn't like his "stupid dress" (the gown), and he laughed a lot. Thank goodness it put his mind at ease because he was getting quite anxious!

In Recovery, he was just fine until he asked if he had to go to school next week. When he heard my answer of "yes," he lost it! I wonder what he was expecting...

Dyron and I took him to IHOP for a chocolate pancake and then to Toys R Us for some new legos. Oma let him borrow her little VCR/TV so he's enjoying watching "The Apple Dumplin' Gang" right now. Laughing again...

Thank you God for the blessing of a healthy boy! 

Lillian said...

"If we had a puppy dog and a trampoline in our backyard - we would have the PERFECT HOUSE!"

Sparkly Shoes

Eden has recently inherited Lilli's sparkly ballet flats. Both of the girls' feet have been on a growth spurt this summer. Thank goodness for hand-me-down flip-flops!

Eden has been twirling around the house, wanting to dress-up, stealing my lipstick, singing, showing me her arabesques, requesting her green skirt every day, constantly clicking around the house in Lilli's old tap shoes, etc. Suddenly, a girlie-girl!

No longer a toddler - definitely a little girl. She is almost as tall as Lil. Pointing out E's, L's, and A's on everything. Now she's into cutting paper. She has announced to all of us that purple is her favorite color.

I borrowed my mom's little TV/VCR combo for Asher to watch after his surgery. Eden would request "Backyardigans" every day and I would patiently explain to her, "Your movie is a DVD. This TV only plays VCR tapes." Lilli was using the tape one day last week and Eden came up to me with the roll and asked if she could have some of it. I asked her, "What are you going to tape?" She replied (very matter-of-factly), "I'm going to put it on my Backyardigan movie so I can watch it downstairs in your room."

Wow! I thought that was a very big abstract thought for a 2-year-old!

What fun this mothering thing can be...

No shirt...

no shoes...no service...right?

Lillian prefers a skirt and no shirt. Asher is usually shirtless all summer because of our daily use of the pool. Lillian requested "skirt...but no shirt" more and more as the hot days continued. She also preferred her "babin' suit bikini bottoms...but no top." I allowed her this concession when we had no company.

She started the Labor Day weekend out complying with my rule. I noticed by Saturday afternoon...no top or shirt again. And she had influenced Ani as well...I guess she considers the Beelers family!

Trying to fly

One day after Asher's surgery, he's trying to fly.

I bought some Pooh videos at a garage sale...oh, at least four years ago. They have been watched maybe once...until last week. Now, they are all picking a Pooh video. Asher loves them. Cracks up at Tigger's antics. I personally love that my almost 8-year-old cracks up at Pooh episodes! The dialogue between the characters is quite entertaining.

Anyway, I caught him the day after his surgery with the Curious George umbrella and his Pirate balloon. "What are you doing?" I asked. "I'm trying to fly like Pooh." Asher replied.

Aaahhhh....the influences of media!

Glad to be back

Oh...I miss them when I'm away...back to being a mama and all that it entails feels right. Putting my house back in order, piano practice, wiping bottoms, napping, reading, monitoring the girls' "crafts", rescuing kittens, alarm clocks, schedules, cooking, washing clothes...etc.

Like driving in the car and having my children commenting on the things we pass. Asking me a billion questions per minute! Filling me in on their version of Grandy and Grammy's visit! (Chucky Cheese seems to be their best memory...) Lilli has also talked about her visit to the "Little Rock Zoo" a few times! (I wonder if she realizes it's the same zoo I take her to...)

I was hugging Lilli and telling her I thought she was softer than before I left for Wisconsin. She said, "I'm sweeter too because I ate lots of sweets while you were in Wisconsin." I bet you did!

Love you too much!

Car Conversations

Riding in the car with the girls this evening...

Eden: "Let's listen to the "Duh duh duh duh duh duh song"...

Lillian: "Yeah. This is a gentle song. Gentle songs are for crying."

Eden: "Yeah. We want a loud song."

Lillian: "A fast song. Fast songs are for dancing!"

Then they both start giggling - of course...

Boys

I don't have a brother. Therefore, I had no clue what to expect from a son. I must say...every mama who didn't have a brother needs a son. It's an experience!

Before Asher, I knew what Legos were...sort of...

After Asher, I am amazed at what he (and Dyron) creates with them!

This is the fortress he is currently working on - you can see it is well "fortified" with many guards. His creations intrigue me...

Asher's Desk

Asher is currently using his desk for:

1) a Lego building table

2) a place to draw

3) an area to take things apart - such as old watches...

4) a place to invent and design 

5) a place to laugh (He taped a lot of "You might be a redneck if..." jokes - with duct tape - on the wall)

6) not for homework (he prefers to do that over breakfast because he told his daddy (who forgot about it) and not his mama. luckily, she found it...)

Impromptu tea party!

The girls and I had a tea party today. Lilli set the table, put the food on our plates, and poured our tea. Eden had to run put on her "party dress." Lilli just preferred to remain shirtless. "Like Daddy, when he's working on the car," she told me. I suppose her shirtless phase will end when it turns cold. But, for now, she is sleeping only in her pajama bottoms. And, Eden has decided to sleep "like Lilli."

Art: by Lilli

I love seeing the progression of my children's art. It is actually quite amazing to "study" how their art changes from month to month. My favorite part is always asking, "What is it?" or "What are you drawing?" Sometimes, the answer is obvious...but, most of the time, the description of their work makes me smile! Enjoy perusing through Lilli's art gallery!

Art: Boy vs. Girl

There is no comparison!

I found this one morning...

I guess Lilli wanted to make sure whatever was in the closet stayed in the closet while she was sleeping!

Bathtime Conversation

Just returned from my run...

The kids were in the bath and I peeked in the door at them.

Lillian: "Are you through with your run?"

Yes.

Eden: "You're sweaty - aren't you?"

Yes.

Lillian: "That was a short one."

No - not really. I'm just getting faster.

Lillian: "Are you faster than all the other mamas?"

Well...almost!

Eden: "Are you faster than all the daddies?"

No...but a lot of the daddies.

Eden's Babies

Eden has just started playing with baby dolls. She puts them to bed over and over again. She set up her "nursery" in the hall this morning. I thought I'd join in her play and asked, "What are your babies names?"

She promptly replied, "Purpley, Pinky, and Whitey." (Names corresponding with the color of their clothes.)

Later on, a fourth baby had been added to her progeny. When I asked to hold her newest baby ("May I hold Pinky?"), she informed me that baby's name was, "Dark Pinky, mama."

I'm so glad my children provide me with plenty of reasons to smile!

Gilligan's Island

I love to hear Asher laugh. It is one of the joys in my life. He does it with such gusto! Therefore, I couldn't resist giving him one of his birthday presents a whole week early - Season One of "Gilligan's Island." Initially, he looked at it with one of his "slightly disappointed" faces. "Black and white..." he said. "Just give it a chance - you'll love it!" I told him.

Mama was right! He's been watching a few episodes every day after school. He giggles and laughs out loud for an entire hour. I try to find some excuse for watching with him. (Like folding laundry.)

Being cable-free has been a great choice for my family. I've had so much fun introducing Asher to the Cosby Show, old Disney movies, original Scooby Doo, and Gilligan's Island. I don't have little girls who want everything advertised to them on television. It's wonderful and freeing for an already frazzled mama! In addition, I don't fill my mind with images and messages I'm better off without in my life. The "blue tube of death" has minimum effect on my family. We have more time for each other, learning, reading, and exercise. I am convinced we are happier and healthier without the influence of television. Another plus is when we stay in a hotel, the kids are mesmerized by Animal Planet or the Discovery Channel.

Well, I must get to packing - we leave for Kansas in an hour. Yikes! 

Lost...

Cookie was lost for 36 hours. We put her on the back screened-in porch Oreo one evening and the next morning she was no where to be found...I called the animal shelter. No Cookie. We called he name over and over and over and over again. No Cookie. We went looking around the neighborhood. No Cookie.

Asher came in the door from school yesterday, "Look mama - I found Cookie!" She was soaking wet and VERY hungry. Who knows what she was doing?

She's back and we are all relieved!

Happy Birthday, Asher!

It's so hard to believe...Asher is eight!

We celebrated with a small family party at home. I made a few homemade decorations and Lillian helped me make an "Eight Rainbow Cake." Which turned out to be prophetic - there were a few early evening storms and a beautiful double rainbow appeared in the sky right outside the dining room window after supper before cake-cutting time!

A great reminder of God's promise to all of us!

Happy Birthday, my big eight-year-old!

Just Thursday

This morning began with a mission. The mission was a trip to the fabric store for Halloween costume materials.

Lillian had been telling me she wanted to be an "Indian Dancer" for Halloween. I could not figure out what her vision was for a costume. I had no idea where this "Indian Dancer" idea came from...until I asked. "I saw the picture at that material store," she informed me. Aahh...she saw a pattern. I was happy. I thought this was going to be so easy...

We found the pattern - no problem. (It wasn't an "Indian Dancer" but a gypsy costume.) The material was another story. She wanted light pink and kelly green. I was trying to convince her to forget the pink and use orange, yellow, and green. After ten minutes and my frustration level rising, we finally agreed on a dark pink and purple. Then, I decided her costume would need a few big sequins hanging from the bottom of the skirt to make it sparkly and fun! Why didn't I just keep my big mouth shut? Lillian wanted the teeny-tiny sequins and couldn't understand why those wouldn't work...arrgghh! We finally worked it out and I remembered why I don't really "get into" Halloween. 

What about Eden? She announced a few weeks ago she wanted to be a ladybug. Finally, a decisive child! Asher has always vascillated back and forth and Lillian was trying to this year. But, I announced there would be no "pirate princess dancer" or "vampire ghost alien" costumes this year. Everyone had to pick ONE thing to be...no ifs, ands, or silly combinations! 

We'll see about Asher. Isn't he old enough to dress himself? Or stay home and pass out candy?

Family Outing

Yesterday evening, I thought it would be fun to attend Asher's baseball practice as a family. The girls love to run around on the bleachers and the playground. I enjoy visiting with the other parents.

Eden had been complaining about her tummy hurting, but seemed interested in going. We all loaded into the car. A few minutes into the trip (at a stop light) Eden says, "My belly's hurting, mama." I assured her I would hold her in her blankie at the ballpark. I turned around to give her a smile and I knew what was about to occur...she threw up.

Great...D made a quick U-turn while Asher gagged and Lillian held her nose in the back seat. We made it home with minimal mess in the car and I took her inside for a clean-up. D took Asher and Lilli with him while I snuggled and read a zillion books to Eden. She was up and running around within the hour! Aren't children resilient?

I'm assuming it was a touch of food poisoning - we had eaten out for lunch with Daddy earlier and a lot of salad was consumed by a little girl. But, who really knows?

This morning

The girls have been perusing through some photo albums lately. One has pictures of a trip D and I took to Italy. They were talking a minute ago and I overheard them say, "Where's the picture of the naked boy?" I knew instantly they were talking about the statue of David by Michaelangelo. They found it and Eden said, "Where are his clothes?" 

Family Movie Night

Lilli has been planning all day to watch the "real movie Scooby-Doo." When Asher heard this, he said, "We always watch Scooby-Doo. I want  to watch Gilligan's Island."

Lilli: "We always watch Gilligan's Island." 

Asher: "We NEVER get to watch Gilligan's Island!"

Lilli: "Asher's lying."

I laugh. "He's not lying. He's just overexaggerating."

Eden hears this from the other room and has to add her two cents.

Eden: "We always watch Gilligan's Island. We NEVER get to watch Backyardigans. I want to watch Backyardigans. Cause the DV(d) is okay cause the conditioner's working."

(She said this because our upstairs AC was out for almost a month because the AC service man couldn't figure out what was wrong. She couldn't watch her Backyardigans DVDs because we don't have a player downstairs.)

I think they've finally compromised on a selection. I must go...

Correct Pronunciation

The girls have been talking about "punkins" a lot lately. Usually, I let cute mispronunciations go (for awhile) because I like to hear them.

Well, I let the proverbial "cat out of the bag" and corrected the girls the other day. "It's pumpkin - not punkin," I told them. "Oh!" Lillian said as she turned to Eden, "It's pumPkin." They walked away both saying, "PumPkin," over and over again.

Now, every day (at least twice a day) Eden asks me, "Mama, it's pumPkin. PumPkin, pumPkin, pumPkin. Right?"

Yes, Eden!

Eden's Art

The kids have been drawing on the Dry Erase board in the hall a lot lately. Eden has been drawing a lot of people and flowers.

Today, she was drawing and said, "Look, mama - I'm drawing a flower with hair and arms and legs. See?"

"I didn't know flowers had hair, arms, and legs," I replied.

Eden: "Yes." (Then in a different voice.) "I'm a flower with hair and arms and legs."

Bedtime

Eden: "Mama, would you sleep woof (with) me?"

Lillian: "Lay down with me next..."

Eden: "Would you get the (toy) broom for me?"

Me: "You don't need the broom."

Eden: "Yes, I do! I need to go zoom." (We've read "Space Witch" a few times lately.)

Me: "You need to be sleeping. Not zooming."

Eden: (Exasperated voice) "Okay...Get me a bunny to sleep woof (with)..."

Lillian: "It's in the doll bed." (She's so helpful.)

Asher: (from the other room) "Would you get me a drink of water?"

Me: "Sure."

Lillian: (Now I'm laying down with her for a minute.) "Sing me and Oreo (she's holding our kitten) a song."

Me: (After three songs and prayers) "Good night, girls." (Walk into Asher's room) 

Asher: "Mama, let's say my prayer."

Me: "Do you want me to or you?"

Asher: "Me..." (says nice, meaningful, showing more maturity prayer) "Would you say one too?"

Me: "Of course..." (How can you say "no?") (After nice, meaningful prayer) "I love you. Good night."

 Our last night without Daddy. We all miss him. Good night.

Change of Heart

I took Asher shopping for his Halloween costume yesterday. He picked out a scary mask and a dagger. Today, he told me, "Mama, I should have picked the green reaper costume." Is that an environmentalist with a death wish?

Girls Gone Grocery Shopping!

Lillian dressed in her not-quite-finished Gypsy skirt this morning. Eden picked out her new tutu passed down to her from Faith. I asked them if they wanted to change before we went grocery shopping. "No, mama." Lilli said. "All the ladies will just freak out when they see us like this."

Later, at the grocery store, a lady commented on how cute the girls looked. Lilli looked at me with a smile and whispered, "See, mama. I told you a lady would freak out!"

1001 Uses for a Box

# 1001: To hold your kitten.
The funny thing was - Oreo wasn't even attempting to extract himself from the shoe box. He actually acted like he was quite comfortable.

2007 Fall Ball

The 2007 Fall Ball season came to an end on Saturday with a one-run win for the Pirates! The team finally came together in the last three games and start using all those skills learned in practice from the careful instruction of Coach Chris.

Asher hit well. He learned and played a new position this season - catcher. He also played pitcher's mound (he's playing pitching machine) and made a few throws for outs at first base!

Good fun! See you all in the Spring.

Trick or Treat 2007

Despite all the frustrations of the day (Eden's wings didn't come in...so she wore homemade ones. Lil's head scarf wouldn't stay on...and Asher carried his mask most of the night...), we still managed to have fun! We visited Great-Grandmother Sanders first, then the office (where everyone thought Asher was Skeletor), and then walked around the neighborhood for awhile with Daddy. It was fun to watch Eden get the hang of it - even though she refused help with her heavy bag until...finally...after an injury let us help her!

Happy Halloween!

Inside Eden's Head

Eden is hard to figure - she is certainly a unique, little creature at the ripe age of almost three. Tonight, while we were reading "Peeping Beauty" (one of her current favorites) she asked, "Future...what does that mean?" Now, how do I explain that one to a two-year-old!

She requested sausage and pancakes for supper tonight. We were the only two eating, so I said, "Sure!" When I asked her what she wanted to drink, she replied, "I'll have some syrup, please!" Then she giggled uncontrollably...

On our trip home from the beach, Lillian sneezed on her. "Lilli! Don't achoo on my arm!" was her exasperated response.

At her Oma's house the other day, I heard her say, "Shucks...I should have brung my quacky duck!" (Oma says "shucks!")

She is extremely independent when she is in a "known" environment. Very content to play by herself. Take her to storytime or try to introduce her to someone new - she becomes "Eden the Clinger."

Her current catch phrase is..."Mama - I love you and I like you. I love you because you're a lovey dovey." She came up with the "lovey dovey" on her own. I do really love my Eden Lane. And I like her...

Asher

Just loved these pics of my growing boy...

Can't leave out Lilli!

My sweet Lil...

Alternate Meaning

The girls are constantly playing "pets." I hear Lilli say, "Now it's my turn to be the owner and your turn to be the horse/cat/dog." It's Saturday morning and Asher's home to join in the fun. They've been playing "vet" this morning. Lilli brings in her pet (Eden) for a check-up.

I noticed this sign on Asher's door - I'm guessing it has an alternate meaning...I bet "no pets" means "no girls/sisters" allowed in his room.

"Two seashells on the beach"

another piece of art to add to Lilli's gallery!

Once Upon a Battle

As I was putting Asher to bed last night, he had to clear a few toys. He said, "Everybody died last night." The T-Rex "lost his head." The smaller T-Rex "got part of his face blown off." The little man "got stepped on and was crushed to death." Finally, the Raptor "lost his legs in the fight."

How did Asher ever survive?

What does ______ mean?

Yesterday while driving in the car, Eden was very concerned with the issue of watching the "Soccer Monster" episode of Backyardigans. (We got two "new" Backyardigans DVDs from the library.) She was asking me "Do I get to watch Backyardigans?" and "When can I watch Backyardigans?" over and over again. I actually had a friend with me and we were trying to talk to each other. Finally, I said to Eden, "Peggy and I are having a conversation and it's rude for you to keep talking to me. I told you that you could watch your DVD after your nap. Now, don't interrupt us again." My friend continued talking and about 30 seconds later I heard Eden asking me something again. Being a little frustrated with her interruptions, I started to tell her there would be no DVD if she didn't stop interrupting...until I heard the end of her inquiry. "Mama, mama, what does conversation mean?"

Peggy smiled at me and answered Eden's question. Eden seemed satisfied with the definition and was quiet the rest of the ride home. 

Always Prepared

My children never cease to amaze me! We ate supper at Papa and Oma's tonight and at the end of our meal Lilli started complaining her lips hurt. She has a small spot of dry skin (eczema) below her lip that comes and goes... I told her we could get some antibiotic ointment for it when we got home. She quickly replied, "Oh, we don't have to wait...I have some in my purse." And she did - a small tube of Neosporin she had confiscated from somewhere in our house!

I guess she'll grow up to be "one of those women" who are never without there purse and are prepared for any and every situation! (Unlike her mama...)

Coincidence?

Well, I started reading "How and When to Tell Your Kids about Sex" none to soon. I picked Asher up from school on Thursday (sans sisters) and our conversation immediately led into what was written on the stalls of the boys' bathrooms at his school. All of the curse words were named plus "I like sex."

Me: "Do you know what sex means, Asher?"

Asher: "No."

M: "Do you want to know what sex means?

A: "Yes."

M: "Would you like me or Daddy to tell you what sex means?"

A: "You."

M: "Well (actually feeling quite confident), God gave us sex as a gift. We've talked about how babies are made...(we reviewed the specifics - going into great detail and good discussion). God wants us to enjoy sex with (in Asher's case) our wife. He created us with the need to share our bodies with someone we love. He gave us a great blessing with wonderful feelings and he expects us to honor him by only sharing our bodies with our wife/husband. Do you understand? Do you have any more questions?"

A: "No."

M: "Anytime you want to ask me or Daddy about anything we've talked about today, please come talk to us."

A: "Okay, mama."

M: "I love you, Asher."

A: "I love you."

Then I calmly walked back to my room, said a prayer in thanksgiving to God, and started crying.

Girls and Leaves

The girls wanted to go outside and "rake the leaves" last week. They had a great time raking and then jumping into the leaves!

Belly-button friend

Eden has been playing with her belly-button all of the time lately. When I asked her why she keeps playing with her belly-button, she replied, "Because it's my belly-button friend."

Oh.

Being sad

Eden was crying tonight in her bed - mourning the loss of our kitten, Cookie. (Cookie has been missing for six weeks, we've searched for her, and we're sure she will not be returning.) Dyron was calming her down with reassuring words. "Cookie was a wild kitty who didn't want to live in a house like Sissy, Mr. Jane, and Oreo. She needed to live in the woods."

Lillian soon started feeling sad too as we conversed more about Cookie. She told me, "I wish I would have known that Cookie wanted to go live in the forest. I would have made her a little coat and put food in the pockets, so when she was in the forest and she got hungry she could take off her little coat and eat the food in the pockets. That's what I wish."

As Sissy (our 9-year-old cat) jumped up in the bed to snuggle with Lillian, all seemed right again and the girls settled down for a good night's sleep.

Why I like mornings...

Eden's jelly face!

Roar!

Just one of Asher's many drawings...

and the princess replies, "Ugly Face."

Fancy horses

This is what the girls refer to as "getting the horses fancy." It's also another way they get a million tiny things out that they don't put up when they're finished playing with them! Arrgghh!

Man-eating shark!

I found the girls playing with Asher's shark - bow included! They were feeding it, making it a comfortable bed, and pushing it in the stroller. I'm not making this up!

Things I find in the dryer...

Razor blades - what else?

Tree Trimmings

For the past 12 years, I have decorated our Christmas tree in white lights. This year Asher requested colored lights on our tree. How could I refuse? I thought, "Oh well, we won't have the perfect tree..." Is that true?

Is the perfect tree my ideal? Or is the perfect tree what my son requests?

When children want to be involved in a family activity, we should engage them. We should listen to their ideas and make compromises.

So, this year...and I'm sure many more to come...our Christmas tree is a compromise. I was resistent at first...but now, I find myself amused by our tree. It is more interesting. More dynamic. The kids placed the ornaments on themselves (with a small amount of direction from me). I'm still finding ornaments being moved every day. I guess they like the changes. And I do too!

It really is amazing what children will remind you of...life is not so serious...relax and enjoy the holidays!

Eden's 3rd Birthday Party!

We celebrated Eden's birthday a few days early...she's not officially three yet, but she sure acts like it!

When she saw her "horsie" cake, she was confused. "Where are its legs," she asked. I laughed and showed her it was just the horse's head. (I was a little lazy and just used the same design as Lilli's cake for her 4th birthday.) I did change the color to purple (at Eden's request) and it was delicious!

Happy Birthday, Eden Lane! 

May be the last time...

all the kids take a bath together.

The other evening the girls were getting in the bath and I told Asher to "go jump in the shower." He asked if he could just take a bath. I said, "Sure." I was still in the bathroom getting the shampoo out when Asher stepped into the tub. Eden was eye-level with his penis and she pointed and said, "Eww, Asher, I don't want to see your penis."

I thought he would jump out and head to the shower, but he calmly sat down and I explained to Eden that Daddy and Asher shared the same body parts because they were both boys and Lilli, Eden, and Mama shared the same parts because we were all girls. Just because Asher looked different from her didn't give her a reason to think he was gross. She didn't make any more comments and she proceeded to play with her animals while Asher played with his cars and airplanes.

I suppose modesty is right around the corner...my babies are all growing up so fast... 

Eden's Photo Shoot!

I always try to get a picture of each of my children on their actual birthdays every year. Today was Eden's turn. I dressed her up in a new velvet dress from Grammy. She was very fancy and enjoyed posing (for about three minutes). We got a few good shots. I was really pleased with the one where she is looking over her shoulder.

Happy Birthday, Eden!

Visions of Sugarplums...

The girls just looked so sweet during their Sunday afternoon nap I wondered what they were thinking...

I was thinking how much I loved being their mama. 

Asher's Christmas List

Asher saw this add in the paper on Sunday. He looked at it, took it to his room, slept with it, and then brought it to breakfast this morning. "Mama, I want either this one or this one. Do you think I could get one for Christmas?" He was quite persistent...

I think he thought they were "Pirate" jewelry!

Copyright Infringement?

Lilli vs. John Lennon...

Dinner with a 3-year-old

I remember my baby sister Martie yelling most nights during dinner for my mother to "come wipe me!"

Now, fast-forward to the future and put me at the dinner table. Casually enjoying my meal. Conversing with Dyron, Asher, and Lilli. And I hear..."Mama, I'm done."

Who ever knew...I...with the formerly weak stomach...would be able to walk into the bathroom (still chewing my bite) and wipe my daughter's butt without thinking twice about it.

This...my friends...is parenting!

Asher's morning paper

Asher has been getting the paper every morning and reading the comics over breakfast. It's so cute! (I wonder how many other 2nd graders have this tradition...) Sometimes it interferes with his eating and I have to remind him he only has a few minutes before we have to leave for school.

This morning he began his two weeks of Christmas break. Lillian had picked up the paper when she let the cats in...so, he read his comics as usual and then quizzed Dyron and I from the "Check Your Knowledge" section. He had to have some help with some of the people's names, but I was pleasantly surprised when he rattled off some hard words (villain, survivor, institution, structure, valuable...)

I commented on his good reading. Especially the word "institution." He said, "Mama, institution is an easy word for me."

Love watching you grow, son!

Knowledge of a 3-year-old

As I'm tucking Eden into her bed for her nap today, she tells me (while she is petting Oreo), "Mama, did you know Asher's in charge of Lillian, Lillian's in charge of me, and I'm in charge of Oreo?"

"Oh really," I replied.

"Yes, that's the way it goes..." she said as she laid her head on her princess pillow.

Upstairs/Downstairs

Conversation between two 3-year-olds:

Colton: "Eden, come downstairs and play with me."

Eden: "Why?"

C: "Because I like you."

E: "Why do you like me?"

C: "Because I love you."

E: "Why do you love me?"

C: "Because I want you to come downstairs and play with me!"

E [going downstairs]: "Oh..."

Fashion Show

by Eden

My Son

I like that when I go in to tuck Asher in bed, he's listening to "Endless Love" by Diana Ross/Lionel Ritchie and laughing because he's reading his "Essential Calvin and Hobbes" book he got for Christmas.

"Dangerous Stuff"

by Asher

(When I picked Asher up from school yesterday, I noticed he was writing something. I asked him what he was writing and he replied, "A list." This is what his list said.)

Dangerous Stuff

There is lots of stuff that's Dangerous in this World. Like acid, paison, gas, toxic waset, nuclear bombs, radical tererests, oil, aleins, robot, predators, killers, posieniry monsters, humanoids, pirates, mummy's, zombies, ghosts, frankinstines, vampires, murderers, poison ants, poison lizards, traps, boby traps, secret traps, so that's why you should always be careful where your stepping, looking, going, what your smelling and eating and breathing.

Playing Monster

Eden loves to play mama monster/baby monster. She seems to like being "scared" when I'm growling at her, but then she wants me to "love" her...i.e. stop my growling.

E: "You be the mama monster."

(I start growling, making a monster face, and walking towards her.)

E: "Okay...I'm the baby monster."

(This means she wants me to kiss her and love her.)

As I'm kissing my baby monster tonight, she says, "I need lots of kissing and hugging. I love you, mama monster."

Never

Eden is into a phase of saying, "We never ________." So far, every statement she has made using this phrase is simply not true. She says, "We never go to the zoo." We haven't been to the zoo in a couple of months, but we went a few times in the Fall.

Tonight, she said, "We never have macaroni and cheese," (as she was stuffing a bite of macaroni and cheese into her mouth). I told her that wasn't true because we were eating it for dinner. "You know what I mean," she replied. "I mean never ever..."

?????

Repeat

I guess every child goes through the "repeating" phase. I even remember repeating people until it drove them crazy. You know that phrase "what goes around comes around?" Well, it's absolutely true!

My girls are driving me crazy with their repeating game. Asher did it to Lilli. Lilli did it to Eden. Eden did it to Lilli. And now the girls are picking on me! (So, of course, I'm now doing it back to them!)

Some of Asher's drawings...

a dragon by Asher...and a robotic flying creature on a far away planet...

"Mystery of Mysterys" by Asher

I went on a wild safari to get some kind of ancint treasure, but first I have to find a sectret cave with traps that are hidden and when I get through I found a treasure box I opened it and there was just an old paper and I went hmmm, I know, it's a map on the way I see canibals! So I creep as quitely as I can. So when im almost there I see two waterfalls and in bewten I see huge rock that's covered with vines and that's where the X was on the map and then I saw a shining thing it was the treasure so the team picked me up in a helicopter.

Danger!

Yeah - like Asher needs any help with ideas in this department...

Monster Trucks!

The testosterone was flowing...

boys became men...

When Asher was 2 years old, he was watching some fireworks on July the 4th when he turned to us and said, "I like things fast and I like things loud!"

I hope he had fun!

Lillian is five years old!

With every passing birthday of one of my children, it always amazes me how I reflect on how quickly time passes...

Sometimes I'm just struggling to get through another day, but mostly I'm realizing how precious the small amount of time I have with my children is...

It's such a short amount of time. And so important!

You ate your breakfast of bacon and pancakes...with sprinkles! You opened a few gifts from Mama and Daddy. I took you to get your hair trimmed. We took a "snuggly" nap together and then headed to Mi Burrito for your favorite...cheese dip!

How I love you, Lillian.

Happy 5th Birthday!

Bath Toys

Eden came into my bathroom last night while I was taking a bath. "Oh...hi mama! Are you taking a bath?" she asked. "Yes," I replied.

E: "Do you need some toys?"

Me: "Yes, I would love some..."

E: "Okay." She began placing horses on the side of the tub. "Do you need some pirates and cowboys too?"

Me: "Sure..."

E: "Okay." She put some of Asher's pirates and cowboys on the side of the tub. "Do you need anything else?"

Me: "No. That will be plenty of toys. Thank you."

She walked out and then came back in five minutes later.

E: "Are you having fun? Do you need some more toys?"

Me: "No, thank you."

Nothing like a three-year-old to add ambiance to your bath!

Lil's Version

We sing a Sunday school song that is a round of a verse in the Bible about how God wanted the Israelites to treat one another.

It goes, "Do not lie. Do not steal. Do not deceive one another."

Lilli was singing in the back of the car today..."Do not lie. Do not steal. Do not RECEIVE one another!"

Lillian's 5th Birthday Party!

Originally, Lillian wanted a unicorn cake. Then she changed her mind to...a Barbie cake. She chose her Snow White barbie to be on her cake. I went online for some help. This cake made me decide I need to take a cake decorating class! It required three cake mixes, a new Pyrex bowl, two containers of icing, and lots of ingenuity!

Lillian loved it! (So, I guess that's all that matters...)

Sweetness

Putting the girls to bed tonight is a simple reminder of why I have chosen the role of "mama" for my full-time occupation.

Eden: "Give me a kiss. Now, a nose kiss. A hair kiss. Now, a cheek kiss. A finger kiss..." etc, etc, etc...

Lillian: (While I'm giving Eden kisses.) "Would you come give me some more lovin'? I love lovin'."

Asher's first poem

DRYING THE DISHES

Drying the dishes

What an awful chore

Drying the dishes

Instead of going to the store

Drying the dishes

And you drop one on the floor

Maybe they won't let you

Dry the dishes any more!

(Can you tell he's been reading "A Light in the Attic" by Shel Silverstein?) 

Tying her shoes

Lillian has learned to tie her shoes!

Her Kindergarten teacher will love me... it took lots of instruction and even more practice but she finally mastered the skill. I loved her saying, "No, mama...I can do it!" She was very eager to learn.

Now, if she can just remember which foot each shoe goes on...she always wants to point the toes out! (She swears it's more "comfortable.")

Good job, Lilli!

Job Description

Last night at supper (yes, the entire family was sitting around the table enjoying a meal that included conversation between all parties) I said, "I'm thinking about getting a job." (Well, not immediately...but in another year if I decide to put Eden in Montessorri.) Asher looked at me and said, "Mama, you already have a job."

"I do?" I replied.

"Yes." he said.

"What is my job, Asher?" I asked.

"Your job is taking care of us. You know...cooking our food, cleaning the house, reading us books, washing the clothes, staying here with Lillian and Eden, driving us around...all of that." he answered.

"Well, when you put it like that...I guess I do have a full-time job." I smiled at him because his words filled my heart.

"We just need to get you some money for your job," he added.

Amen!

Blackmail

Saving these for the teenage years!

Innocence

Levi is over this morning. He and Asher have been running around the yard with their sticks shooting at imaginary villians. They came in and Asher was attacking me with kisses when Levi said, "Asher likes someone at school."

"Who?" I inquired.

"Kylie," replied Levi.

"Have you asked her to go with you?" I asked Asher.

Asher replied (without missing a beat), "Where?"

Dyron and I just smiled at each other.

Out of the mouth of babes...

starring Eden!

Eden is quite verbose for a 3-year-old. I love to listen to her chatter throughout the day. She talks a lot to herself if she is engaged in solo play. She is currently interested in undressing, putting new outfits together, and redressing Lillian's Barbie dolls. Her fine motor skills are actually quite good for her age and she rarely asks me for assistance.

Just this morning she needed some help with a particular outfit (it's always the hands getting caught in the sleeves) and while she was waiting for me I noticed she was doing (what we call) the "pee pee dance." I told her to go to the bathroom and move the stool over and turn on the light by herself (she is extremely independent). She came back saying, "I can't turn on the light, mama. My arms are too short." She stretched them high in the air for me to see... "See, mama. My arms are just too short."

The other day I was making tuna fish for sandwiches and (of course) the girls wanted to help me. They watched patiently as I cut the eggs and apples. "When can we stir?" they asked. "As soon as I put the mayonnaise in...be patient," I answered. They watched and waited and talked about the ingredients as I put them in the bowl. And then they STIRRED! I thought asking them to name the five ingredients I had put into the tuna fish would be a good memory game, so I quizzed them. Lilli named all five ingredients with little hesitation. Then it was Eden's turn. I had to offer her a clue or two during the process but she was successful. "Tuna fish, chopped eggs, apples (as I pointed to the half I didn't use), (pause as I prompted..."from the fridge?") MERMAIDS, and pickles!"

One more...

We came home late one evening (it was dark outside) and Eden quipped, "Look, mama. The lights are on! Sometimes the electrocute is off at night." (I think her brain works in overtime!)

Eden is very content to play alone. She will play for hours with blocks, Barbies, her dollhouse, stuffed animals, you name it... she is constantly begging me to read to her and will sit quietly for as long as I read to her. She has been known to memorize her favorites and will take books to some quiet place and "read" them.

If you ask her what she's going to be when she grows up...her answer is always "a mama." She has now added to her answer. "I'm going to be a mama and you will be my little girl." We've talked about how I can't be a little girl again but I don't think she believes me!

Surprise Snow Day!

I didn't want to tease the kids with the supposed forecast of snow...so, we were all pleasantly surprised with the temporary winter wonderland!

Asher absolutely did NOT want to go to school. (Unfortunately, the snow was melted by the time he got home...)

The girls spent the night at Papa and Oma's. Dyron had to go home and bring them some pajamas because spending the night was a last minute decision...he brought them their snowman pajamas and told them if they wore them...when they woke up in the morning there would be snow on the ground.

What a thrill for them when they woke up and discovered their magical powers!

We had a lot of fun tramping through the snow and making our teeny-tiny snow person...Lilli and Eden even tasted the snow!

Enough of that...we're ready for Spring!

Reading with Asher

I cherish my "reading time" with my son, Asher. He just completed the Indiana Jones trilogy of books. The books were at a sixth grade (or above) reading level and included many new words for Asher, such as fabrication, sinister, ritual, shriek, commotion, ferocity, etc. Dyron and I took turns reading aloud to him and letting him read aloud to us.

Last night, Asher requested I read with him so we snuggled into my bed together. We started by reading a chapter out of Joshua. Asher asked to read about the "wars" in the Bible so the book of Joshua seemed like a good starting point. I love sharing the stories of the Bible with Asher. I can remember nightly Bible readings with my parents and all of the questions I would ask them.

We started a new book last night..."Tom Sawyer" by Mark Twain. A book written in the late 1800's can be challenging reading - even for a mama!

Time quietly reading a book together is unlike any other experience. I get to laugh (and sometimes cry) with my son. I can feel his anticipation of "what's going to happen next?" We are experiencing a new adventure together! We're sitting or laying close to one another...physically, mentally, and emotionally touching. I feel like I learn about him while we are reading...his likes and dislikes. It's a small amount of time we share without outside distractions. Our brains are both engaged on an intriguing topic.

If you don't read with your children...you should. I began reading to Asher as a tiny infant and hope to continue for many years to come...

Big Breakfast

Lillian: "Mama, what are we having for breakfast?"

Me: "I'm going to make a big breakfast."

L: "What are we having?"

M: "Biscuits, sausage (I tried to sneak veggie sausage in place of regular sausage and they were rejected by everyone!), eggs, and grits (it's a southern thing)."

L: "Make some bacon and jelly toast too. We need a big breakfast. One that covers the whole table!"

More from Eden

Eden said to me (while putting her coat on to go outside in the snow), "I don't need my hat, mama...cause the cold has already gotten used to me."

Asher's First Snowman

Isn't it cute?

He did it all by himself!

Girl Talk

After getting Lillian and Eden dressed for church on Sunday, I listened in on their conversation while they were deciding what shoes to wear...

E: "I'll wear your new pink heels, Lilli. Okay?"

L: "No, your feet aren't big enough. You can have them after me."

E: "And then you can have Asher's shoes when his feet get to big."

L: "No, because Asher is a boy. Girls don't wear boy shoes. Girls wear girl shoes."

E: "Oh. Boys wear boy shoes and girls wear girl shoes."

L: "AND...girls wear dresses and boy don't."

E: "Yeah. Boys don't wear dresses."

L: "But we do!"

Then lots of giggling...

Shower Curtain

Asher cannot use the toilet in the kids' bathroom without opening the shower curtain.

It drives me crazy!

Today, I heard him open the shower curtain and yelled, "Asher!" His reply..."Shoot! I was trying to open it quietly so you wouldn't hear..."

I've tried to convince him there is nothing in the shower waiting to jump out and eat him but he doesn't believe me. I wonder how long this will last...

This is what I call...

"'Eden had a good night's sleep" hair!

Request Denied

Asher was in urgent need of a haircut. His only request was..."Mama, could I just get it cut short on top and let the back keep growing long?"

I looked at him with a slight smirk on my face and said, "No, son...that's what people call a mullet!"

We compromised and left it a little long all over (he has a cute curl on one side in the back). He's happy and I've kept the Hamlin house safe from a relic of the 80's most of us don't want to remember...

New Shoes

I took the kids shoe shopping the other day...

Eden picked out some "blinky" shoes. Lilli picked out her first pair of "high heels" - pink and sparkly, of course! Asher picked out a pair of black Converse high-tops...a big change from his usual skater shoes.

He wore them home and as soon as we got home went straight to his room. He had something going round and round in his brain...

He found a book his Grammy gave him for Christmas..."100 Ways to Pimp Your Kicks." It's a book about tying shoe-laces in different designs. (I had totally forgotten he even had it!) He immediately picked two different designs and worked on them until he got it right! What a funny guy!

One down...

eleven more to go...

I can't believe the public schools would do this to parents! We have the LONGEST SPRING BREAK EVER this year! Asher is out for 8 days (and that's not counting the two weekends that are included)!

We filled our first day with a little morning play around the house, lunch at Grandmother's house, and a trip to the library for tons of books and a few movies. I took a short nap with Eden while Asher and Lilli had some "quiet time." This afternoon we made Rice Krispie treats (at Asher's request) and I cooked dinner while they watched "Aladdin and the Prince of Thieves." They just finished eating their supper and are chasing each other around playing "genie."

Pray for me...

Playing Catch-Up!

Cousin Stella

We had the fun of "babysitting" cousin Stella Smith last week. (My sister, Mandie had Lasik eye surgery.) One day was absolutely gorgeous so we headed to the park and the girls had a blast racing down the slide, playing on the merry-go-round, and climbing. They remind me of my sister, first cousin (Cory), and I when we were little. In all the good ways and the bad ways! The bad ways being someone is always a "third wheel" (and it's usually Eden). Overall, they enjoy each other's company and play house, owners and pets, and giggle non-stop! I will certainly enjoy watching them grow into young ladies and will be constantly reminded of my childhood in the process...

Playing Catch-Up! (Part Two)

Eden's First Trip to the Dentist

Eden had her first visit to the dentist last week and she was an exceptional patient. She listened intently to the hygienist and knew exactly how to lay still and open her mouth wide (she's seen me, Asher, and Lilli).

The funniest moment of the visit came when the dentist asked her a question while examining her teeth and she answered him with mouth wide open...

No cavities!

Playing Catch-Up! (Part Three)

Gymnastics

The girls have been taking gymnastics for almost two months and I finally got a few pictures! They love it! As a mama, I can think of nothing better to spend my money on than "getting some energy out" with the additional benefits of exercise!

Career Change

Asher said, "Mama, I'm going to be a cargo-plane pilot (that's a new one), a scientist/archaeologist (he's stuck with that one for at least two years), AND I've also decided to be a taxi-driver. A Ferrari taxi-driver. Won't that be cool?"

Whistling

Lilli,

You started whistling this week. All of the time. And I think it's soooooooo cute!

Love, Mama

There's a first time for everything...

Yes.

I know.

I'm a terrible mama.

My oldest child is 8 years old and this is the first time I have ever dyed Easter eggs.

And it will be my last.

The kids had fun. A big mess was made. And the eggs were ugly. (In my humble opinion.)

I'm sticking with plastic...

Easter Baskets

The Easter Bunny (wink! wink!) delivered some great baskets this year! Eden ate so much candy (all of her candy necklace kit) before Sunday school she hit her Sunday school teacher (a first) and generally misbehaved during the Passover story (and after Daddy got onto her - a last).

Happy Easter! 

How to Eat a Cadbury Egg: by Lilli and Eden

Eden: "Whine and beg until mama gives in.  Struggle with the wrapper. Eat in two bites."

Lilli: "Unwrap slowly. Nibble, nibble, and nibble some more. Savor for twenty minutes while watching sister gobble her egg in two bites. Flaunt delectable Cadbury egg until mama says, "Okay, Lil...finish your egg so we can wipe your hands and face.'"

How is it?

How is it that more water can be on the bathroom floor than in the bathtub after the girls take a bath?

A. From their wave-making abilities

B. From the new water spitting technique they've perfected while in the bathtub

C. From all of the soap/shampoo potions they've created

D. A combination of all of the above

Subtleties

There are subtle differences before kids and after kids. Okay...they are differences of great magnitude.

For instance...

Before kids: "My kids will do this and this and this..."

After kids: "Can you believe my kids did this and this and this?" (And I'm not talking accomplishments either...)

Polar Bear Plunge 2008

Asher had a solo plunge this year...Josh and Dalton have both moved...

Lilli is...

reading! We have about 20 words and exactly 13 letters taped to our living room wall. Lilli has been learning to read for a few weeks. It's like a lightbulb turned on in her head when she turned five in February. She is suddenly "getting" concepts that previously baffled her! It's so amazing to watch my children learn...why would I give that privilege to someone else? On that vein, I have decided to keep Eden home full-time with me next year and then I may start a search for a quality pre-school for her when she is four. This time spent with each of my children will be a joy to me for the rest of my life! I am so blessed.

March Photo Shoot

I posted these pics on my Facebook page...

These pictures made me think of a Scripture. Proverbs 31:30 "Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain; but a woman who fears God, she will be praised!" (Can anyone tell I've been in my Bible a lot lately?!?)

She's back!

"Garage Sale Baby" has been re-discovered and is being loved again!

Asher, my son

Asher is such a pleasure. Yes, there are plenty of times he needs discipline...but I think we've entered the "honeymoon" phase of parenting with him. All of our hard work while he was a toddler and in his pre-school years has paid off. He is a good student and a responsible young man. I'm very proud of him. He is also extremely lovable! He is constantly hugging me and kissing me... Sometimes I can be annoyed by it but I need to enjoy his attention because at some point (probably sooner than I think) he will think kissing me is gross!

He actually posed for a few pictures for me this afternoon. I couldn't believe it - he actually seemed to be having fun!

Two shirtless fairies...

eat their lunch! The girls are always dressing up...their imaginations have gone wild lately. It's so fun to see what they choose to "be" from day to day!

Some Random Art

by Asher and Lilli

"Fancy Nancy"

We checked out a "Fancy Nancy" book by Jane O'Connor about a month ago from the library. (I know this because I've already renewed it once!) The girls love Fancy Nancy! She is quite the character - she dresses fancy, her room is fancy, she uses fancy words, and she speaks French! I have read the original "Fancy Nancy" at least 25 times!

The girls begged me to find more "Fancy Nancy" books to read to them. I found three in all - "Fancy Nancy," "Fancy Nancy: Bonjour, Butterfly," and "Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy." They have been dressing up and playing Fancy Nancy (especially Eden) and they want to learn French! We checked out two French tapes and a French picture dictionary last week.

At Oma's house yesterday, Eden said, "Merci, Oma," when Oma gave her a popcorn snack. She then said, "Au revoir, Oma," when we left! The girls also know "bonjour" and "s'il vous plait!" It is hilarious! I'm going to try and take advantage of their interest.

If you have little girls, you must introduce them to "Fancy Nancy." The girls burst into excited giggles when I told them the library was hosting a "Fancy Nancy" party in May! (I'll be sure and take plenty of pictures!)

Learning to Cook

Lil wanted to make her own eggs for breakfast the other morning, so I schooled her in the fine art of scrambling eggs. She whipped her eggs. She let me know when the butter had melted. She "stirred" them and "flipped" them. And, then she ate them with a huge smile on her face!

Oh, dear!

I clean my Grandmother's house every other week. So, today I took Lillian, Eden, and Stella (I'm watching her today) with me. They helped their great-grandmother by sweeping off her back porch. She paid them each a quarter, dime, and nickel.

I overheard them playing "store." Stella and Eden were the "checkers" and Lillian was the "shopper." She said, "I'll buy some candles, two pizzas, and two beers for me and my boyfriend."

Oh, dear...

Leaving on a jet plane...

Lilli is off to Virginia to spend a week at Grandy and Grammy's "by herself." She has been talking about her solo trip for over a month. I hope her excitement is realized and she has a fabulous time! She packed her purse with her notebook, money (a few coins), and pen. I added a few "fancy" tissues because her allergies have been acting up. She also had her prize possesion in tow - her "soft blankie." I will miss her.

I asked Eden what she wanted to do while Lillian was gone. "I want to read 101 books," she replied.

Asher mused...

"Mama, I wonder if Jesus has a barber. He must have a long beard and some long hair...he's over 2000 years old!"

It was inevitable!

Yes, Asher broke his arm! Actually, he fractured his wrist in the "growth plate."

and...yes, he broke it Thursday night (he tripped and tried to catch himself) and we didn't have it x-rayed until Tuesday...

But, he's doing fine. The doctor said he could play baseball after a week (if he wants to and while in the cast). We got a Goretex cast so he could shower and swim.

Just another episode in the Hamlin family saga!

After school snack

On Thursday afternoon I was sitting with Asher while he ate his cookies and drank his milk. I was asking the usual questions..."How was your day?" and "Did you learn anything new today?" We sat there for a few minutes and then Asher said, "Mama...(in a quiet, worried tone) I've got to tell you something...something bad happened today." I said, "What?" and waited. "We were at lunch and Ms. __________ told us we were being "too loud" and I said "you're being too loud" and she heard me and I had to go to the principal's office but I said I was sorry and I regretted talking back and I apologized to Ms. ___________ and I'll never do that again. I'm sorry, mama."

I was disappointed and proud of Asher at the same time. Disappointed in his behavior but proud of the mature way he handled it. I didn't feel like he needed any further "talking to" about the issue, so all I said was, "Do you know what the Bible says about our tongues?" He said, "No, tell me." I looked up the scripture in James about the tongue and we discussed what a small but powerful part of our body it was...how God gave it to us to use carefully and wisely. We ended our conversation with Asher saying, "Mama, I'll try my best to use my tongue to make God happy."

Now, I need to remember that lesson too!

Lil's home!

Lilli returned home from Virginia with Grandy and Grammy Saturday evening. I was sitting on my bed propping my foot up and she came rushing in with a big smile on her face. "I missed you, mama. I love you, mama!" I picked her up and we hugged and hugged. Oh, her smell and her softness and her smile were all a joy to me! I didn't realize how much I had missed her until she was home again.

She had a terrific time in Virginia with many adventures to share with me. She seemed so grown up! I can see her changing into a young lady right before my eyes. She is quickly becoming independent and I can see her making small choices that will determine who she becomes in this life. It's scary and exciting all at the same time!

May God bless her journey and hold her hand all along the way. I love you, sweet Lil! (So glad you're home...)

"Fancy Nancy" Soiree at the Library!

I guess it was a good thing I hurt my toe...I couldn't participate in the "mock 5K" for my running clinic so I took the girls to the Fancy Nancy soiree at the library! I let them chose their "outfits" and helped them fix their hair. The library's event room was filled with girls all dressed up in their fanciest dress-up clothes! The girls ate a pink cupcake (with sprinkles), drank some punch, and made fancy butterfly wands before listening to a reading of "Fancy Nancy: Bonjour, Butterfly!" and getting a group picture.

Lillian chose to wear her gypsy skirt (from Halloween), tye-dye shirt, shawl, and pink heels! She also wore her butterfly wings.

Eden chose to wear her "birthday dress" with the feathers, sparkly shoes, and to bring a pink puddle (leash included) because she was being Nancy in "Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy."

The girls had a fun time...

I was just trying to avoid having my toe get stepped on...

The "rules"

So, Eden and I are reading a library book yesterday - "Rose and Riley." Rose and Riley are friends. Riley is a lot bigger than Rose. Eden told me, "Rose should listen to Riley." "Why?" I asked. "Because big people know the rules," she replied, "All of them."

All of the big people? Or all of the rules?

Dinner Conversation with my three Children

Asher: "I KNOW there are aliens somewhere...I mean the universe is HUGE! There's gotta be aliens."

Eden: "I'm gonna have infinity aminals (animals) when I grow up."

Lilli: "You can't have infinity aminals (animals). Your house would explode!"

Eden: "I'll let them in one at a time...then one at a time...but I'll have infinity horses and feed them lots of hay."

Lilli: "I wonder if there will be mermaids in God's Kingdom. Will there, mama?"

Bumblebee

The girls and I were outside enjoying the beautiful weather yesterday. Eden was riding her tricycle round and round the basketball court and she kept saying, "Watch me, mama. I'm going so fast!" She was definitely perfecting her riding skills with repetitive practice.

Eden: "Mama, watch me. I'm doing my bumblebee riding."

Me: "Why do you call it bumblebee riding?"

Eden: "Because I'm going so fast the bumblebees can't catch me!"

First Manicure/Pedicure

Aunt Martie treated the girls to a manicure and pedicure yesterday! They loved picking out their fingernail polish (blue and gold)and being pampered. Lilli wouldn't put her feet in the whirlpool but Eden seemed to enjoy it!

I had a pedicure (it actually helped my toe feel better). Now, I'm ready to bust out the sandals!

Thanks for the treat (and Mother's Day gift for me), Aunt Martie!

Twinkies!

Asher and Oma both have casts on their left wrists! Oma had surgery to remove a cyst on a tendon on her hand...

We hope they both heal fast!

Life Lessons in the Kroger Parking Lot!

After Asher's baseball game last night, we stopped by Kroger on the way home to pick up some necessities (ice cream, cones, and a six-pack of Pale Ale for D's late night tile installation). D ran in while I sat in the car with the kids. I have always enjoyed observing people in parking lots. It can be quite entertaining! Well, add three kids and it's a riot!

First observation: Parked right next to us was a small, red car. Out came a young (white) woman and a young (black) man with a (bi-racial) 9-month-old baby. The young man put the baby in the car seat, said "goodbye," and the young woman got into the driver's seat. The young man shut the door as Lilli said, "Is that black baby that white girl's baby?" (Our windows were all rolled down.) The young man didn't seem to notice Lilli's question as he walked by to get in his own car. "Yes," I answered. "How?" Lilli wanted to know. I then went on to explain how a black person and a white person can make a mixed baby...

Second observation: "Oh, that person just littered!" Lilli said very loudly while hanging halfway out the window. "Oh, they shouldn't have done that..." I answered." "Yeah," Lilli said, "and it was a huge paper plate...see!" she continued...pointing at it and the person.

Children are so honest and concrete in their observations. It always reminds me of the story of the "Emperor's New Clothes." They remind us how simple right and wrong can be...how simple A + B = C is...

Answering my children's questions always makes me really think about my words and my own feelings about certain issues. "Don't litter" is such a simple concept that if taught at an early age it sticks with a person throughout their entire life. My response to a bi-racial family helps mold my children's views on the subject of race and how God wants us to treat all people with love.

Who knew sitting in the parking lot could turn into a teaching moment?

Inquiry

Eden: "Mama, what are cat bones made of? I mean...what are they like?"

Spelling Lesson

Riding in the car this afternoon, I told Eden to "quiet down" and she replied with an emphatic "no!" I informed her that telling me "no" was not appropriate and she needed to listen and obey me. She was complaining and whining about Lilli not "showing (me) her picture" a few minutes later and I told her to "quiet down and close (your) eyes because (your) tired" and this time she replied with an "N...O...!"

So, technically she didn't say "no." She just spelled it!

We had a discussion when we returned home about not telling or spelling "no" to mama when I give instructions. We "listen and obey." Okay?

"Y...E...S..."

Always love the art!

Silly Sisters!

Lillian and Eden are so challenging AND so much fun! Their personalities are so different. It's interesting to watch them become young ladies...

Lillian bosses Eden around all day...I'm wondering how this will benefit and "hurt" her in Kindergarten. I want her to realize on her own the good and bad parts of her personality. I give her bits of advice - like...some kids will not want you to tell them what to do once you go to school. It will be interesting to see how she does in the classroom setting.

Eden will usually listen to Lillian and doesn't seem too bothered by her bossiness. But, I'm slowly seeing Eden come to the realization that she can make her own decisions. She continues to be very independent and will play for long periods of time by herself. She loves to role-play with the dinosaurs, stuffed animals, etc. 

Asher is such a pleasure at eight that I have to keep reminding myself to be diligent in the girls' "training" and discipline and the hard work will be rewarded soon!

Party Food...

Summer Swimming!

The kids can't seem to get enough of the swimming pool. They had cousins, Levi and Stella, and friends, Megan and Nate, over to swim the other day and had a fantastic time!

"I'm NOT cute!"

After fixing Eden's hair in pigtails...

Me: "Oh, you're so cute!"

Eden: "I'm NOT cute!"

Me: "Okay. You're NOT cute!"

Eden: "I'm pretty!"

Little Cannibals!

Boys and their warrior instincts crack me up! (Yes, they painted "blood" and symbols all over each other.)

Which leads to...

Eden's first date...(at the GLCBS bible school)

Colton (a childhood friend of mine's son...who is also three years old) asked if Eden could "go for a ride in my dad's Chevy Impala?" one day at bible school. I told him he had to ask Eden and when she replied "yes" asked him a few more questions. "Will you take care of her?" "Yes," he replied. "Will you respect her?" "What does respect mean?" he inquired. (After a brief explanation...) "Yes," he replied. "Will you have her back in an hour?" "Yes," he replied.

Colton was slightly obsessed with Eden. One morning when I opened the door (we were staying in a dorm), Colton was standing there (he was staying across the hall) and asked, "Is Eden awake? Can we play?"

He was always coming to ask if she could do something or accompany him and his parents to a meal, etc. It was so cute! I even heard their was a small fight between Colton and another boy over who was going to sit by Eden in one of their classes.

I overheard a conversation between Eden and Colton one evening before heading out to dinner. Colton said, "I know you want to come to dinner with me because you love me. You said you love me...remember?"

Oh brother...

Oh, Lil!

I think you're beautiful!

Favorite Eden Quote (when she's mad at me)

"You always do that sometimes!"

Swimming

my little fish

My kids have always been quick studies when it comes to swimming.  Here are Lilli at 5 years, 4 months, looking like an Olympic swimmer with great form; and Eden at 3 years, 6 months, holding her own.

Double click to start...

Career Change

"Mama, I've decided I'm going to be a spy when I grow up," Asher says while reading the spy book he just checked out from the library.

"Why the sudden career change?" I asked him.

"Because they use lots of cool stuff!"

Cousins!

We enjoyed spending some time with our Love cousins (all the way from Virginia) last week. I watched Micah, Shana, and Nathan while Cory (my first cousin and honorary sister) got her hair "did." Shana fits right in between Lilli and Eden (she's four) and Micah is seven. The girls played a lot of dress-up and the boys did a little of everything (sword fighting, bothering the girls, swimming, Lego building, wrestling, drawing, playing war with pine cones, etc).

Thanks for the visit! We can't wait to see you all again in a few weeks.

Asher's Marble Tower

Asher spent all day perfecting his marble tower. He is such an inventor and builder!

Pool Action...

Asher and I had fun taking these pictures!

Meet of Champs

Well, another swim season has wrapped up for the Maumelle Marlins. Asher had a good season - his freestyle really improved and he made some new friends. He also added a new event to his repertoire - the Individual Medley. He worked really hard to master his butterfly and his breast stroke throughout the season.

He received a silver medal for his part on the 100 meter (8 and under) freestyle team at the Meet of Champs.

Good season, Asher! Congratulations on another year of swimming! 

Sunday School Lesson

"What did you learn in Sunday School today, Eden?"

"I learned about creation - the first day."

"What did God make on the first day?"

"He made the tadpoles."

Guaranteed "Good" Boy Pictures

I've found a sure-fire way of getting good pictures of Asher. First, I let him take a "silly" picture and then he has to let me take a "good" picture.

So far, 100% results! 

Popsicle Toasts

I watched Levi and Stella yesterday while Mandie went to work...the girls played horses, the boys built with Legos and caught tadpoles in the creek, and then we all went swimming. I gave them all popsicles for a treat after swimming. As they sat around eating them, they started giving each other "popsicle toasts." This involved touching each other's popsicles with a "chink" and then taking a lick (yeah...that part's kind of gross). Anyway, besides the exchange of saliva...it was cute!

Warning Sign

The girls posted this "No Boys Allowed" sign on their door.

From Grammy, With Love!

Grammy sent new bikinis in the mail!

What the kids learned at Bible School

We always come home with "too many" crafts from bible school. Some are immediately thrown away because they were squashed or smashed or demolished in the car on the trip home. Some are saved for a few weeks until they are picked up by the "clean-up fairy" and sent to some far away land. Still others are kept "forever" as a memorial to a great week of bible school. 

This year I wanted to know what each of my children had learned in their classes...so as I went through their crafts and notebooks I asked them to tell me.

Eden told me all about the "fiery furnace" and "Shadrach, Meshach, and what was the other guy's name?"

As Lillian was telling me about Jonah and the whale, Eden exclaimed, "I learned about him too! And I made the whale too!" Lilli also told me all about Elijah and the ravens, Elijah and the widow, and how people lived in Bible times. "Mama, the widow saved her food even though she was about to run out," she told me.

Asher explained "Nebuchadnezzar's image" to me and elaborated on a few of Elisha's miracles.

They all were filled to the brim with knowledge of the Bible. I liked to watch their faces as they told me about everything they learned. They even helped each other out when they couldn't remember a name of a person in a specific story! I said a small prayer of thanksgiving to God for their week of learning and asked that he continue to bless their growth in his Word.

The native is restless...

I think Asher might be taking summer vacation a little too seriously.
When DOES school start? (Yes. He made a shield out of a serving tray!)

Asher asked...

"Do you know what I've been doing?"

I answered, "Playing outside."

"No. I've been having nice conversations with some dogs."

"Really?"

"Yes. A labrador, another big dog, and maybe a chihuahua."

"That's interesting."

"Yeah and I used different dog voices. You know woof woof with the big dogs and yip yip with the little one."

Conway Kids Triathlon 2008

Asher competed in his 2nd triathlon on Saturday. The Conway Kids Triathlon was held on the campus of UCA and required each entrant to complete a swim, bike, and run course.

Asher was 2nd out of the pool in his heat. He had a faster transistion time from swim to bike than last year...but his chain came off during the 2-mile bike which set him back but Dyron said he was positive coming into the 1/2 mile run! He completed his triathlon with a smile!

When he got home (I stayed home with the girls because Eden had been sick the previous day and Lil just likes to sleep in!), the only insight into the race he offered me was..."When I finished the swim I was so dizzy I almost couldn't get out of the pool!"

Official times:

50m swim          1:07

2-mile bike      22:36  (equipment malfunction...chain came off!)

1/2 mile run      5:13

Keeping tri-ing Asher!

Apart

Lilli and Eden will be "apart" for the first time starting on Monday. Lilli will go to Kindergarten and Eden will stay at home with me. They have been apart for a few days (well, one week this Spring when Lilli visited Grandy and Grammy's house) here and there but this will be for the entire school year.

Eden plays alone quite often but Lilli is a huge part of her day. They have such good times playing dress-up, horses, "aminals," cooking, etc. I'm sure she will notice not having Lilli as a constant in her life.

It makes me a little sad. Only one child at home with me. My little girl going to school. Sisters being separated. I just wonder when Eden will notice. If she will notice. What she will feel...

My life is in constant motion. Constant yet sometimes at a snail's pace change.

I remember when I had newborns I thought that stage of total dependence (and lack of sleep!) would last forever. And it didn't.

I remember when I was potty-training and I thought the misery would never end... And it did.

I remember all of the singing and the "patting" I did to get Asher to sleep. I used to get so tired of standing by his crib and then his "big boy" bed waiting for him to drift off to sleep. I thought he would never be able to put himself to sleep. And now he does...

It all is gone in an instant.

It must be cherished.

The last three-and-a-half years have been hard with two girls so close in age. I have been extremely busy. And extremely blessed. These girls of mine...sisters forever...have given me memories to hold in my heart always. 

Eden and I will miss Lilli.

Open House

Open House at Asher and Lilli's school was Friday night. Lillian was SO EXCITED to be going to "her school" and meeting "her teacher." She will have Ms. Matthews (Asher's Kindergarten teacher too!). It was so fun watching her look around her classroom.

Asher has been telling her (as she's been counting down the days until school starts!) that it's  only......many days until "prison." He even told me tonight, "I'm not even thinking about school starting tomorrow."

Lilli chose to wear her new "party dress" from Grammy for Open House. I love it! She gets fancy for the biggest event of her short life!

Oh...Lillian. I will miss you. I wish you a good school year and pray for God's blessing on your educational endeavors!

Lilli's First Day of Kindergarten

Lilli wasn't as hard to wake up for her first day of Kindergarten as I had imagined. Once I roused her out of her dreams she seemed excited to be up for her first day of school! She chose to differ from Asher's routine and ate her breakfast in her pajamas. (That's one of my favorite characteristics of Lil - she does her own thing!)

She seemed very excited about starting school. I stayed with her until the bell rang. Ms. Matthews made her the leader of the line going into the classroom (I'm sure she was thrilled by that...). She seemed quite confident when I left her.

Upon picking her up from school, she looked a bit harried but happy! It was a little strange seeing my daughter with her mussed hair and sparkling eyes. I couldn't wait to ask her about her day.

She had a fun time telling me about "The Kissing Hand" story. She already has a best friend. She already got in trouble...she was whistling while in line for the bathroom!

Oh Lil! It's going to be a great year!

Is she really just 3 years old?

I was telling Eden the other day she had 10 more minutes to play. She looked up at me and said, "Ten comes after six and six comes after five."

She asked me this morning, "What does pregnant mean?" I explained to her it meant a baby was in a mama's belly. "Yeah. That's what Daddy told me," she answered.

Her current favorite book is "Tiki Tiki Tembo." She reads it to herself, traces the path from the well to the Old Man with the Ladder on almost every page, and says, "Tiki tiki tembo no sa rembo chari bari ruchi pip peri pembo" as she reads the story!

Eden has adjusted quite well to being an only child during the day while Asher and Lillian are at school. I heard her say, "Lilli, I want to play by myself," tonight!

What a girl!

Oscar: by Asher

This is Oscar...my dog cousin.

Lillian's "YUCKY Stew"

Lillian likes to "cook" while I prepare supper. She always wants any vegetable scraps to cut and "cook." The other evening she concocted some stew (sugar included), tasted it, and decided it was "YUCKY!"

Her "YUCKY STEW" recipe:
A few cut up tomato scraps, lettuce scraps, and onion scraps.
One cup of water
One teaspoon of sugar
Stir and taste..."Yuck!"

The Princess and the Pea

I was reading "The Princess and the Pea" to the girls tonight. We were reading about the "bachelor" prince and Lil asked me, "What does bachelor mean?"

I replied, "A man who isn't married."

"What is a lady called who isn't married?" Lil asked.

"A spinster...(maybe I should have said single)," I answered.

"That's what I'm gonna be - a spinster," Lil said with a smile.

"Me too," said Eden.

Growing Up 2 Fast

Lillian blew her hair dry for the first time tonight!

Potty Talk

While Eden was using the potty this morning, she was telling me all about the difference between the wiping habits of her and others.

"Daddy doesn't wipe when he pees, but I do. He does have to wipe his bottom when he poo-poos. Doesn't he? Yes, he does. I have to wipe when I pee-pee and when I poo-poo. So does Lilli. So does Stella. All girls do..."

I enjoyed listening to her dialogue from the living room! 

Warning Labels and Kids

Lillian was blow-drying her hair tonight when she stopped, turned off the hairdryer, and asked, "Why can't you dry your hair in the bath tub?"

For a split-second I thought..."what a strange question." Then I realized she was looking at the warning tag on the cord. I answered, "Because you could be electrocuted."

"Electrocuted?"

"Yes. Shocked to death."

"How?"

(Oh brother...) "The electricity in the water could cause an electric shock that could stop your heart from beating and you could die," I answered.

"Oh," Lilli replied and turned the hairdryer back on...

Eden also has been noticing warning labels. She has commented on the warning label on the grocery cart child seat a few times. "Hey, mama," she says. "This is bad." (Pointing to the child standing up, etc.)

"Why is it bad?" I ask. (I despise the use of the word "bad" - it's SO non-descript and weird to me.)

"Because the kid could fall out of the grocery cart and bonk their noggin."

(Hey! She has been listening to me!)

Pop Tarts

I bought the kids pop tarts today at the store (they were on sale - $1.98 for twelve!) and I was fixing Eden one for a snack. I decided to have one too. Eden must have thought this was ludicrous because she said (with a slight laugh), "Mama, you can't have a pop tart - you're not a children!"

Friday night pizza

out with the family is always a good idea.

If there is a game room, Asher always wants to play something...we don't let him very much...we just feel like pizza is the treat. Anyway, he's been doing so well in school and he's just an all-around good kid so I wanted to treat him. When I gave him the four quarters I found in my purse, his eyes lit up! I told my mom it was like I had given him the moon!

I don't know if my way of raising children is the right way or the best way...I'm just trying like every other parent...

What I'm thrilled about is my child showing appreciation for a simple gesture of kindness. It gave me great pleasure to observe my son (even in this smallest of ways) growing up into (what I hope and pray for) a thankful man. 

Kids...

Why do kids think you can make anything out of paper and tape?

Lillian's Kindergarten class has their Mother Goose parade tomorrow morning and she wants to be the "Three Little Kittens" who lost theri mittens. I found her a kitty-cat mask but she wants to wear homemade kitty ears and whiskers by mama...

I've tried to convince her to wear the mask...she won't budge...so I'll be making some kitty ears tonight!

Rite of Passage

D had a flat on the Saturn this afternoon and let Asher "learn" how to change a tire. He jacked up the car (under D's supervision), loosened the nuts (while the girls kept reminding him..."righty tighty, lefty loosey"), took the flat tire off and put the doughnut on (with a little grunting and A LOT of muscle) ALL BY HIMSELF!

Definitions

Eden and I get to read a lot of books together while Asher and Lilli are in school. When we encouter a "hard" word, I ask her if she knows what it means. One example is the word "meager." If you ask her she will tell you "it means a little bit or a small portion." (It's hilarious!)

Tonight I was reading a book to all three children and Eden kept interrupting by asking..."What does (insert word) mean?" This is all fine and dandy when it is just the two of us reading but Asher and Lilli finally got tired of it (after about three times) and told Eden to "be quiet."

Oh well, we'll just have to continue our vocabulary lessons tomorrow, my sweet Eden Lane!

Money can't buy this...

I was sitting at the breakfast table reading the newspaper this morning and Eden was sitting on the arm of the sofa in the living room. She said, "Mama, you're so familiar." I said, "Really? Do you know what familiar means?"

"No. What does it mean?"

I explained the meaning to her and then she said, "Mama, you're so familiar to me and you're really smart!"

She then jumped down and came over and gave me a hug kiss and hug.

A salary couldn't equal that memory.

"Home" school

Eden is an easy child.

Let me say that again...

Eden is an easy child. She would be easy to ignore all day. She just doesn't need me. She can "entertain" herself for hours.

The other morning after breakfast she told me she was going to go play in her room. I was busy cleaning the kitchen and starting some laundry. I heard her talking in her room and then she ran up and down the stairs a few times so I went to check out what she was doing...

She had all of her stuffed animals and dolls dressed in various outfits. She had used all the baby clothes, some dress-up clothes, some of her own clothes, and even a few leotards so everyone would have a "swimsuit" because they were all swimming in the "lake." (She used her blue blanket for the lake!)

Eden plays with her horses and I listen sometimes while she talks about all of their adventures and uses her "daddy," "mama," or "baby" voices. She also will build block cities and gets all of Asher's dinosaurs, bugs, army men, and cars out. She looks at every book we have in the house and then asks to go to the library.

She's been learning to ride a "big girl" bike on the trail. (She leaves me unless I run to keep up!) We've been going to the park. (She loves to chase the boys!) She goes with me when I clean Grandmother's house. (I love to hear her make Grandmother laugh!)

We've also had "school" a few mornings. She wants to do her "homework." She's been working out of a pre-school book. She sat for 45 minutes one morning and did all of the pre-writing pages...tracing lines, circles, etc. (She's very focused!) I've been reading her about five books every morning after breakfast (she would let me read twenty).

On occasion (a couple of mornings a week) she asks to play with Stella. (I comply with her wish if it's possible.) She definitely enjoys her alone time and even made a comment recently about "not having to share." Although, as soon as Lilli gets home she is ready to see her sister and they start playing together.

Eden and I are adjusting to our new roles. She being the only child for most of the day and me being the mother of only one very easy child for a large chunk of the day!

Lilli's First Story

Lillian informed me she wrote this story about a scared girl and her cat.

Future Blogger?

Eden plopped down beside me this morning while I was blogging and said, "I'm going to work on my blog entry."

Happy 9th Birthday, Asher!

My 9-year-old son: His birthright, my blessing

For the past few years I have told Asher the story of the events leading up to his birth on the eve of his birthday. Every year I add a few more details...not "gory" details but the details of my feelings about having a newborn son. This year I focused on the anticipation his daddy and I felt on the days leading up to his birth. I told him how I asked God to help me guide my son to lead a good life...a life focused on loving and pleasing Yahweh.

He loves hearing this story. This year was the first time he asked to hear it and then asked at different times on his birthday..."What was I doing now?" (at 7 am), "Now?" (at 3 pm), "Now?" (at 8 pm). He asked, "What did you think about me when you first saw me?" I answered, "I thought you were the most beautiful baby I had ever seen. I thought you looked exactly like you were supposed to and I wondered if I could actually take care of you. I was a little overwhelmed and I doubted my ability to care for you. I knew I loved you but I hoped that was enough."

Asher has been a blessing in my life. Through all the frustrations of sleeping (he never did!), crying (mainly in the car - he hated his carseat), and obstinance (he had a will!), he is such a joy to me! I've read the years from 8-12 are the "quiet" and "compliant" ones. Parents can be lulled into a sense of complacency and then are shocked when their children assert themselves again in the teenage years! I'm hoping I'm staying awake and using all the teaching moments offered to me. I feel like my main job now is in helping Asher mold his character.

In biblical times, the firstborn son of Hebrew families understood their special standing in the family. They had a birthright (more inheritance than any other child) and a special blessing upon entering manhood. Manhood wasn't at 18 or 21 like our society promotes...it was at 13! (A mere four years away for Asher!) 

Yesterday, I thought quite a bit about the concept of birthright. Hebrew boys in biblical times knew all about this birthright. They knew how important it was...it passed their family's wealth directly to them. "All" they had to do was show their father they were capable of taking care of the family. Not just riches, but responsibility came with being the firstborn. A son had to take care of his mother and sisters (until marriage) if something happened to his father. He would be looked to when it came time to make important decisions concerning business, family, and worship.

The firstborn son had to be trained to think of others before himself. He had to be responsible with money. He had to have a good work ethic. He had to be able to lead. He needed to trust in God to help him make important decisions concerning all aspects of life (including choosing a wife).

I guess I've been thinking about all of these issues because my son is growing up (in an instant almost) right before my eyes. He is a blessing to me. I pray he will always be a blessing to our family. I pray he will always trust God and turn to Him for help in his life.

I said a special birthday breakfast prayer for Asher yesterday morning. I thanked God for the blessing of my son, Asher. I prayed for God to continue to guide Asher. I thanked God for giving me Asher because he added so much joy to my life. When I opened my eyes, I saw Asher wipe away some tears. He didn't look at me before he dug into his pancakes and I didn't let him see my tears either.

Eden's Bling!

Eden had a dentist check-up today. No cavities! She was an excellent patient...and was rewarded with some "ruby-red" bling!

Who's teaching who?

Lilli wanted to read "A Good Day" by Kevin Henkes to me last night and I was helping her sound out her words. We had a long day (school for her, pumpkin patch, and the horse stables) and she was noticeably fatigued, so she was getting frustrated easily with longer, harder words. Eden came and sat beside us to listen to the book. After a few tries at a word (I think it was "yellow"), Eden started helping Lilli. "Y...Y...Y...yellow," she said. And then the next word. "F...F...F...feather," she said. Lilli kept getting frustrated so finally Eden just "read" the whole sentence on the page. (Eden memorizes books.)

I couldn't help myself. I giggled. Eden continued "helping" and Lilli broke down in tears...

So much for a reading lesson!

How to Fall Asleep: Advice from a 5-year-old

Lillian is the non-sleeper of the family. (It's rather funny because I recorded she slept 22 hours one day when she was two weeks old.)

So, today I was laying down with the girls for a nap and Lillian said she wasn't really very tired (we had been at the ball park for almost four hours and they were sweaty and sun-burned and TIRED). I told her just lay down and rest. She quickly fell asleep...

Lillian informed me this evening she "figured out how to fall asleep." She said, "When I was just gonna lay there and rest I started thinking. The thinking made me fall asleep. So, from now on when I need to fall asleep I'm just gonna think about something!" 

Bargain Shopper

I took Asher to (I hate to say this...) Wal-Mart (gasp!) to spend some birthday money. We gave him $30 in $2 bills for his birthday...

He looked and looked and looked and looked and looked and looked and looked and looked and looked....and looked some more...

He finally decided on a few G.I.Joe's but he was still doubtful. He asked, "Mama, do you think these are a waste of money?" I smiled. "No, it's your birthday money. You get what you want." "Well, I will play with them...A LOT. And I'll be using my imagination. Do you think they're a waste of money?" he repeated.

How lollipops are made...

(The conversation the girls had while getting into their bath tonight.)

Eden: God made the candy store. Then the people made the candy and put the sticks that God made into them so we could hold the candy while we licked it. That's a lollipop.

Lilli: No, that's not all right. Here's the way that's more correct. God made the world and the people. The builders made the candy store. The baker made the candy and someone else wrapped a stick with paper. That's how you get a lollipop!

Never throw away old shoe strings...

Gettin' ready for Halloween!

Asher showed an interest in decorating our front porch for Halloween a few years ago...so we're slowly building up our collection. (Grammy helps us by sending a few items in the mail.)

I had the scary monster-man with his head in the correct place but Asher liked the effect of him holding his head...and I had to agree...it was an improvement!

We had fun getting the porch ready. Grammy even sent us a few "scary sounds" CDs to use...

Trick or Treat!

Glasses?

Asher complained two weeks ago that the words were fuzzy sometimes when he was reading so I had his vision screened at school. The nurse recommended taking him to the eye doctor so I made him an appointment. He was actually counting down the days until his visit to the eye doctor...should that have been my first clue?

Well, after EXTENSIVE tests yesterday the doctor wants us to come back in two weeks for another round of tests... He seemed to be slightly baffled at what was going on with Asher. The doctor seems to think he has some eye strain from all of his reading. (He reads whenever he's finished with his work at school, sometimes in the afternoon, and every night before he goes to bed.)

What? There can be too much reading taking place by my 9-year-old son?

He appears to have a slight need for some reading glasses but the doctor couldn't figure out what the best prescription was for him. Two of the kids in Asher's class have gotten glasses lately...I hope this isn't his motivation!

Anyway, we'll SEE!

Riding in the car

Asher: "We studied matter today at school."

Lilli: "We're studying about pumpkins!"

What in the world?

I noticed this hanging from Eden's bed yesterday. I asked her what is was...

"It's my bundle," she replied.

Surprise!

I picked out Eden's clothes for her and told her to get dressed. I came back about 10 minutes later and she had her shoes on with one tied!

We practiced tying her shoes last week but she never did it completely by herself until today. What a nice surprise from my almost four-year-old!

Have a nice day!

It's my carpool week. I trade off this duty with another mama. The kids are always saying "the Suburban is a bus!" I carry six passengers - my kids plus Hannah, Mitchell, and Kennedy.

I enjoy sitting quietly and listening to the various conversations and comments during our short rides. Carpooling provides for many "teachable moments."

This morning Hannah got into the Suburban and said, "Well, Obama won!" Then Asher asked, "Mama, does this mean our taxes are going up?" I said, "I have no idea. But, I'm not going to worry about it. God is in control." I have become very aware of how much of what I say is heard (and sometimes repeated) by my children. It makes me think twice about what I am teaching them about the world.

As I dropped the kids off at school, the student helper said, "Have a nice day!" as he shut the door. I hear that phrase every morning I drop the kids off but this morning I was really affected by it. I noticed how many healthy, smiling kids I saw on the playground ready for a day of learning. It struck me how blessed I am! And, I decided I would have a "nice day"...looking to the future with a renewed hope!

My nine-year-old boy

"I love playing. Outside is the best!" Asher told me after running around for a couple of hours this evening with some of his friends from church.
My new neighbor (a mama too) commented on how she hears my kids playing in the backyard. I said, "Oh, I hope they don't bother you too much." (She has a seven-month-old little boy and the kids can get rather loud.) "Oh no," she replied, "I think it's terrific! My mom MADE us go outside every day. And, if we weren't outside by 9:30 our neighborhood friends came looking for us."
I grew up playing outside too. We lived on forty acres and our only neighbor was my Granny. Mandie and I climbed trees, rode our bikes, played in our tree house, built huge cities in our sandbox...we were always outside!
I have tried to always get a bit of outside time every day. (I bundled Asher, Lilli, and Eden up even in the chilliest weather for a quick walk around the block!) Fresh air is just good for humans! It always makes me feel alive!
Eden and I have been taking advantage of the beautiful "Indian summer" and going to the park a lot lately. She usually wears herself out and falls asleep in the carpool line...another advantage to fresh air!