Our Little Savages

Big Decisions ...Mixed Emotions....

2012-01-03T14:39:00.003-05:00

We have an announcement to make. And it wasn't an easy decison. We are still wrangling with the what-ifs, the logistics, and the sadness/excitement that comes with it. This probably won't be my most eloquent post... but it's honestly hard to get out a single coherent statement at the moment.

Monte has accepted a position within GE in Cincinnati Ohio.

The circumstances came quickly and somewhat unexpectedly. The resulting decision did not. Those of you who know us well knew that it was HARD to leave Fort Wayne. It was even HARDER to leave Illinois. And leaving Wisconsin before that took my breath away. I honestly thought it wouldn't be that way here. It hasn't been that long...we aren't quite as rooted, etc.

Then we made the decision. And said it out loud. And then it got harder. And the more people know, the harder it gets.

You start to realize that by leaving...certain things won't happen. Your kids won't have the same FANTASTIC swim coach that encourages them, gets after them when they need it ... and loves on them when they need that too. They won't ride the bus to middle school with the same group of girls that have been looking forward to it for a long time. You won't be able to walk next door and help yourself to chocolate, wine or anything else you need but don't have at your own house. The house won't be filled with the same giggling, scheming, shouting bunch of kids that you sometimes forget aren't your own. Your dog won't automatically have a number of playdates just to get some energy out.

Change is hard. And we have certainly had our share. But ... we don't like moving the kids. We don't regret ANY of it... and certainly all of it was necessary. We are making this move only because we will have to do it sometime. And later.... will only be harder. This I know.

I didn't expect to find it so hard to leave. It's hot here. Really HOT. For a looooong time. The school situation.... well, that's just WEIRD. And despite how charming Paula Dean is when she says it, "ya'll" just doesn't roll off of my tongue. But a lot of things work. And so many people have pitched in to help us along. And I've sort of gotten attached to them.

So.... here we go again. If I'm not currently able to put together a coherent "thank you" without blubbering... if you are reading this... please know how important, special, and essential you have been to our family. If there is anything that we take with us going forward to Ohio... it is that despite the differences in location, culture, weather, and school environments... there are good people (and good friends) everywhere.

Cooper's Christmas Program 2011

2011-12-15T20:21:00.003-05:00

Most days aren't like this.

Most days ...he chases the dog, leaves all the lights on, leaves crumbs all over the house, doesn't flush the toilet, hides his socks under the couch, demands that he wear THIS shirt... not THAT one...and generally wreaks havoc. I sometimes wonder if that will be the legacy of this three year old boy of mine.

But then...there are days like this one.

Today he sang like an angel at his preschool program. He didn't have his finger up his nose. He was a good friend at his buddy's birthday party and even let the birthday boy open the presents. He rocked the sweater vest. He said the dinner blessing all by himself. He tried ALL the green vegetables on his plate. He let me read him the Christmas story ...two times because I love it so much ...and he fell asleep in my lap...smelling a little bit like boy and a lot like the candy cane pieces that were stuck in his hair.

Chaos may be his legacy... but so will days like these. And I am thankful for all of them.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-06T21:16:00.004-05:00

Tired of buying four new costumes each year only to see them worn once and then discarded into the"dress up" toybin ... I dubbed this Halloween a "recycling" year. Each child got a five dollar budget with which to accessoriz their creative costume ... or they could beg, borrow or trade with another child or friend. As long as everyone was happy and didn't spend more than five bucks ... we could trick or treat.

I had no idea how it would go ...or how much whining would ensue. I am happy to say the kids stepped up and had great fun creating, re-creating, and mixing/matching their costumes to make some good projects.

Grayson wanted to go as Harry Potter and spend his money on black hair dye. He even (very creatively) wanted to "Trunk or Treat" at the church the night before and didn't want to use his hair dye yet, so he donned the robe and went au natural ... as Ron Weasley!

Emma found a bargain wig, dug out some funky glasses and tie dye sweatshirt and went as a "hippy witch."

Claire couldn't resist a purple witch hat at Wal-Mart, found some black makeup in the clearance bin and salvaged Emma's old vampire dress to create a "witchy vampire" ...without fangs. Some things are just too scary when you are seven.

Cooper didn't have much of an opinion ...so we thought it would be fitting to have him wear the "fourth generation" lion suit. Because it's been washed and worn so many times, it doesn't roar like it used to. Now when you push the button, it's more like a tired "meow." But it brought back memories of all of them wearing it at some point ..."roaring" all over the house. It's hard to remember them all that small. I can't believe it's the end of an era.

I guess we'll have to find someone to pass the lion down to. We had so much fun "recycling" this year, we might have to make it a tradition.

Happy 7th Birthday Claire!!!

2011-10-01T13:34:00.003-04:00

Dear Claire,

Seven years ago you entered our lives ... and added so much to it. We thought our life was pretty full already but God had plans to bless us with the gifts He entrusted to you. You were and are the balance that we need ...the calm to the storm... the content to the discontented ...the giver to to the taker ...and the smile to the sadness.

We wonder out loud what each of you will grow into in the coming years.. but because I want to remember who you are at seven ...here you go.

You are the first to share....anything at anytime. Except maybe chocolate.

Your friends are important to you ... but not as important as your siblings.

You still play with Barbies ... and let me play with you.

Reading is a favorite pasttime. Learning to ride a bike? Not so much.

Dresses, jewelry, and accessories = getting dressed.

You wish school would happen on the weekends... but not start until noon.

You love trying different foods ... but defend your right to eat meat against your almost vegetarian sister. And no... it's not in the Constitution. Sorry.

When the older ones talk about college... I see how you react. You've asked if it's against the law to NOT go away to school. No it isn't. But we hope you do. Don't worry... you are always welcome here.

Happy birthday Claire....thanks for forgiving us for all the "middle child" mistakes we make.

Love,

Mom and Dad

First Football Game

2011-09-18T15:23:00.003-04:00

On my "bucket list" is a professional football game. But not just any game.... it has to be the Colts... or the Packers. Coincidentally, that very thing is on Monte and Grayson's bucket lists as well. When two tickets came available to see the Pack play here in Carolina, let's just say I took one for the team and let the boys go.

I'm not taking it very well. But they are having a blast and I am happy for them. Mostly.

In the spirit of full disclosure, had the game been at Lambeau... or in Indy...I would have rigged the straw game.

Happy 3rd Birthday Cooper!

2011-08-16T19:06:00.004-04:00

It happens...just as you know it will...just as they say it will...but it sneaks up on you just the same.

They grow up.

Even the baby.

This birthday follows a whirlwind of developmental milestones...the ones in Dr. Sear's books...potty trained, sleeping in a regular bed, riding a tricycle, going to preschool, conversing in full paragraphs, using regular utensils and cups, etc.

But for me, it is the milestones that SHOULD be in the books that are the most functional ...and those are also completely valid (and selfish) reasons we love our new three year old....

1. He can finally tell me where I left my keys (or where he put them).

2. He can rat on who REALLY made the stain on the carpet (and what it is).

3. He can get up, go to the bathroom and unwrap a granola bar and let me drink half a cup of coffee every morning.

4. He can finally make sense of normal movies so the rest of us no longer have to suffer through Barney and the Wiggles on long road trips.

5. He rocks the bowl cut.

6. He completely and totally worships the siblings...(that one came from the siblings).

7. His L's and R's are not completely fixed... so he still says " I yub you Mommy" every night.

8. He can contribute to the "cleaning up"... and not only the "messing up."

9. He can now go to preschool five mornings per week.

10. Did I mention he says "I yub you Mommy." I mean, really. How priceless is that?

Thank you to my dear neighbors and friends who brought "second generation" presents (after about an hour and half lead time) to our impromptu party and helped us eat Thomas the Tank cupcakes, shoot Nerf darts, build trains, and play Hungry Hungry Hippo.

We are blessed.

For those reasons, and many more... we love this three year old boy.

Lessons from the Pool

2011-06-16T14:47:00.004-04:00

Dear Team Savage,

We looked for a neighborhood with a summer swim league for many reasons... the fun, the teamwork, the exercise, the skill sets. I could go on and on extolling the benefits. But in the "heat" of it all... between volunteering, practices, getting babysitters, etc., sometimes the reason of WHY we do it gets lost somehow.

When it is all said and done, it's the GROWTH. Your growth as a swimmer, your growth as a team player, your growth as a sibling (and mentor to the younger ones), and your growth as a player. Yes, it is at least as important to learn how to BE coached than how TO coach. Because in life, you end up being coached a lot more often than the other way around.

It's about our growth too... as parents. It's learning how to juggle things so that there are enough volunteers to run a meet. Even when I would rather it in the air-conditioning at home. It's about being hospitable hosts and sportsmanlike in wins and losses.

Because you are watching. And learning. And growing. And swimming.

Girl Scout Camp

2011-06-13T13:27:00.002-04:00

It's the first day of a seven week trackout.

The girls are off to Girl Scout day camp.

Claire is beyond excited.

Emma is mildly annoyed Claire is old enough to join her.

Cooper got out his canteen and was upset he wasn't invited.

Grayson is bored.

I think we may need to plan a vacation from our vacation.

Two Hours Till Summer Break....

2011-06-10T13:55:00.003-04:00

Yes, we go to a year round school. Yes, we've had three trackouts already. Yes, this year we get an actual summer too. Due to changing our elementary track to all kids on track four, the kids get seven weeks off ....starting in two hours.

So, it's official... a fifth grader, third grader, first grader, and preschooler. Not for the faint of heart.

The mood was somber this morning. The kids all voluntarily made cards and packed special treats for their teachers. Emma's teacher is having a baby then taking a year off so by the time she returns, Emma will be in middle school. Bittersweet.

It's always both exciting and heartbreaking to see the attachments they make.

Swimteam has started. That helps keep them busy...and we plan to roadtrip back to Indiana and Illinois. A beachhouse trip may be in the works as well, depending on work factors.

Memory-making in the works.

Let the summer begin!

Backblogging... Easter Sunday at the Beach

2011-05-31T10:43:00.003-04:00

Again.... I am behind. No excuses.

This Easter Monte was away on a business trip and it was HOT. The kids and I went to church then decided to hit the road and see how many other people decided to hide their eggs in the sand. We had a lovely time... though I am fairly certain if God had given us an 11th commandment, it would have gone something like this ....

"Thou shalt NOT eat McDonald's on Easter Sunday!"

But we did. Twice.

I justified it this way... Mama was making memories... not sandwiches.

Arrrgghh.... the Two's Room Be Over ....

2011-05-23T13:57:00.004-04:00

It's the last week of preschool for the year. Sniff.

Cooper is wrapping up his 2 yr old year with Pirate Week.

I love preschool. It allows me to go to work and be my "pre-children" self for a few hours a week. But more than that, it allows my kids to grow, and be active, and learn, and become more independent. Plus, they get to do all kinds of fun things that I don't have the creative spark (or patience) to do. Homemade bird feeders and tye-dye? Those are "preschool only" activities. After all, what fun would Ms. J and Ms. L have if all of you had "already done that" at home?

This two year old class was a big gamble. Cooper had just turned two, we had just moved, and I was still grieving the loss of the "known" preschool at home. But I believe God left that ONE opening just for us... and He knew what we needed.

Cooper and I fell in love with the preschool... the entire staff. It's now our church home. It's gone from "the new" to "the known" and we are thankful for what it has given us. I just hope they don't expect any tye-dye coffee filter projects over the summer....

Daddy Envy

2011-05-19T14:24:00.002-04:00

Admittedly, there are numerous things that I just don't fully comprehend. Gravity, nuclear power, middle eastern politics, people who don't like chocolate, red wine drinkers... and the whole and all-encompassing power of the DADDY.

At our house, I can spend the ENTIRE day throwing balls, cutting out playdough, baking cookies and speaking in all of the voices from Wonder Pets....but when the DADDY walks through the door...all bets are off. When he asks them what they did all day, they (often) shrug their collective shoulders and say "....nothing."

WHAT?!

It doesn't even start when he walks in the door. Often it starts when they spot his car, hear the garage door, or (God forbid) read the clock on the microwave that indicates he MIGHT be home soon. The looks on their faces when they see him reminds me of the looks in the kids' faces when they finally reached Willie Wonka's chocolate factory. Every day.

Don't get me wrong... I love that they love him. I don't blame them. He is a FAN-tastic daddy and lots of fun. He has endless patience for multiple books, lengthy backscratches, tickle contests and pillow fights. Of course, he doesn't need to race downstairs to answer emails about donations for school projects, RSVP to birthday parties, organize carpool or arrange playdates.

He doesn't covet bedtime like I do... maybe because he hasn't been with a two year old for the past 10 hours. Or because he hasn't done homework, cleaned out backpacks, assigned chores, signed consent forms, and found and laundered the class shirts that have to be worn on the field trip the next day. Before dinner.

I thought this phenomena was unique to my house. Until I mentioned it to my friends... and neighbors. It turns out this Daddy-Mania is an epidemic sweeping the nation. 9/10 families "surveyed" feel like the mom is consistently the taskmaster while Daddy tends to be "the fun parent." In fact, several people noted a recent episode of Modern Family that addresses this very issue. I am going to find that on Hulu for sure.

And while we love and are eternally grateful for our partners and the support they give us..and again, we are not suggesting we trade places with the Daddys....all moms I spoke with said they would just LOVE to be welcomed home after grocery shopping by their children with a rapture-like chorus of "MOMMY'S HOME." Instead of the usual ...." Did you ONLY buy the healthy cereal?"

So come one fellas... give us the secret. What's in that Daddy mojo? Can we get just a little bit of it?

Until then....I guess we will just say thank you to the Daddys in our lives, accept our fate, and chuck it up to "things we'll never fully understand."

Happy 8th Birthday Grayson!!!

2011-05-14T09:58:00.003-04:00

It's funny how some years just seem to have a large amount of change built into them. Some birthdays are just milemarkers that tell you just how fast time has gone... and how your children are morphing into more self-reliant people. Smarter, more independent, more self-assured, with a sense of humor that is more and more unique to them.

From seven to eight has been a year like that for you. We are excited to watch your soccer games, swim meets and neighborhood football scrimmages. Your brother idolizes your every move.. and (most of the time) you are very patient with him. You are a good friend ... and the group of you is always good for a laugh. And a pile of empty food wrappers. And dirty laundry.

When you read this, who knows how old you will be... and if you will even care what you were like at age eight. But I care... and I want to remember. So here we go.

You...

*love music

* are taking guitar lessons

*can swim competitively

*love soccer but not sure if you want to do it in a structured league

* like your hair longer than I like it

* live to play outside with your friends

*are best friends with your siblings...mostly

* can eat an infinite number of tacos at Taco Bell

*are reading the Harry Potter series

*are starting to notice girls... but not "liking them"...

*would sooner have a limb amputated than do homework

*read Sports Illustrated for Kids cover to cover

*would live at the beach if you could

We love you and are so proud of you. Happy 8th birthday buddy!

Mom and Dad

The art gene...

2011-05-09T15:33:00.003-04:00

There are some traits the kids have that are obviously from Monte or me. The hair, the dimples, the sarcasm...those are all things we can attribute to family members...immediate or otherwise.

But there is one gene that Emma (and recently Claire) has always had that we can't place.

It's her art gene.

She has it. We don't.

We admire it ... we are inspired by it... and want to cultivate it. But since we don't have one, we often just don't know quite what to do with it.

That's why we are forever thankful for art teachers like Mrs. Hoffman... who reach out and touch students who have a love of art, a potential for passion.... and art-impaired parents.

Happy Mother's Day...2011

2011-05-08T16:53:00.003-04:00

I am blessed to have a mother...be a mother...and know mothers....as well as mothers to be.

Many women of different ages, ethnicities, origins, religion, circumstances and situations have crossed my path over my 40 years. All have shaped me into the woman and mother I am today. All have had a lesson to pass along in some way... and for that, I am grateful.

I am thankful every day for the four blessings God has brought into our lives and especially today, when they joyfully bring me overflowing coffee cups, hand-drawn pictures, heartfelt cards and their best behavior (for half the day anyway). I know it won't always be this way. But today it is.

Many women who have graced my life and touched my heart are not celebrating in the same way I am today. Some have unborn children. Others can not hold their children today. Some don't have the monetary options or support to buy groceries for a favorite meal.

It doesn't make them any less a mother.

God bless those of us who have been graced with this tremendous task. It is as close to God's work as we will ever come.

From the girls in our house to those in yours,

Happy Mother's Day

Dear Emma... A Letter on Your 10th Birthday....

2011-03-16T15:20:00.005-04:00

Ten years ago today... almost to the minute I sit down to write this, we welcomed you into our lives. You showed your personality early (spunky, verbal, inquisitive...and a bit stubborn) and it remains true to this day. We thought we were proud of you then....we are more so now.

I thought I'd take a minute to sit down and scribble out who you are today. While I imagine your core personality won't change so much in the years to come, it is just as much for me as it is you. Time seems to be flying so quickly...it helps to just "freeze" a few moments in time.

Today, you take piano lessons. You play in the bell choir at church and can't wait to become eligible for the youth group. You enjoy girl scouts and your troop and have asked to go to horse camp with friends here in North Carolina.

Today, you still enjoy swim teams and want to try volleyball when you are able to. Outside is still your preferred location over anywhere else. Beachside with a book is your ideal vacation spot.

Today, you are creative. You love to paint, draw, sew, design and write. You recently started a blog all by yourself. You've asked for a mannequin that you can dress with all sorts of homemade clothes you design and sew. I'm so glad you don't need my help for that. I couldn't help you even if you needed it.

Today, you are a tremendous help with your siblings and they all look to you for support and encouragement. You are a good friend. You keep your sibling and friends close to you. You choose to keep connections dynamic and open. Your "family" is large and in many states. I think that's an amazing position to be in... and I will do whatever I can to help nurture those relationships.

Today, your party was requested to be "intimate... with international flair." We took five of your friends to The Melting Pot in Durham for cheese and chocolate fondue with a sleepover at our house. It was a fantastic time!

Today, we wish you a fantastic birthday and all the best wishes for your ten year old year.

Love,

Mom

Lighthouse Project

2011-03-07T14:09:00.002-05:00

Emma's fourth grade lighthouse project was right in her wheelhouse. Researching, clay working, painting, measuring, etc. It's a good thing. Craftiness (in this context) is not a blessing God gave me.

As it happened, Cape Lookout is not one of the NC lighthouses she has seen in person....and since she did this much work on it, she is hopeful we will take her to see it. And I guess I should, since Monte and I were both working during her class walk-through today. Thank you to RK for the picture!

Good job Em! Proud of you!

Father Daughter Dance 2011 - NC style

2011-03-05T18:43:00.004-05:00

Every girl should have a date with her daddy.

Emma's third Father Daughter dance with the Girl Scouts is going on right now. She's old enough now to have some say in her attire ... and shoes ... and accessories. We had a lot of fun shopping this time ...and she tried a bright new color. She thinks it's "sunny."

I think it suits her. It's neat to see the person she is becoming... the styles she leans toward, the music she listens to, the quotes she writes down, the Bible verses she memorizes. She makes very conscious choices... deliberate and careful in what and how she decides. This mind of hers...it will serve her well.

But for tonight, I have a feeling all she's thinking about is where her date will take her for dessert tonight. I'm sure he will. I can tell he's smitten with her.

Gearing Up for a Roadtrip....and a Reconnect...

2011-02-28T16:05:00.003-05:00

We track out next week for a three week break. The three big kids can't wait to "roadtrip" with me back to Indiana for a long weekend to see their friends. It's a long haul (11 hours) and I was considering just hanging out and staying home....until I pulled out these pictures.

They want to go. Even when I tell them how long the ride is. I love the connections the kids still have with their friends. Sometimes email and phone calls and letters just don't do it. I understand. I feel the same way about my friends.

So midwest, in a few weeks... here we come. If only for a few days.

Crazy "Cane" Fans...

2011-01-20T21:24:00.004-05:00

Like our house needed another sports addiction.

Grayson and Monte (and me too - when I get to go) have really enjoyed going to a few Carolina Hurricanes Hockey games. Tonight neighbors graciously provided us some tickets so I sent 2/3 of my boys off to the game... in their jerseys. The remaining 1/3 was not so happy about this arrangement. All in due time Cooper.

Have fun guys. The girls will be curled up on the couch...watching American Idol... with popcorn. Enjoying the silence.

My Winter Swim Medalists

2011-01-16T19:48:00.002-05:00

Our first winter swim league meet here in North Carolina was so much fun! It was smaller, shorter, and far less stressful than the big SWAC extravaganzas... and it was just what Claire's self esteem needed to keep going.

All told, Emma, Claire and Grayson brought home fifteen ribbons and two bronze medals. Emma came in fourth place in her division and had several personal bests times. It was a tough pill for her to swallow... given the whole sibling rivalry thing... but a great life lesson.

More than their performances, we were really proud of how everyone on their team conducted themselves. As a kid-pusher for Grayson's age group, I was prepared to get my "Mom voice" out... but never had to. All the kids were respectful and well behaved.

Often, you learn far more than just sports by being on a team. Great job!

2010 In Review... A Letter to the Kids...

2011-01-06T13:09:00.004-05:00

2010 has been over for a week... and part of me still can't let go of it. It was a year of marked change in our lives. Huge energy shifts. Relocation. New school schedule. New friends. New weather. Loss. Grief. Starting over takes a lot out of you. And it puts a lot back in.

Emma - You are growing up. Turning 10 in a few months. You are responsible, focused, and willing to take in and on new things and challenges. You get on planes and go visit your friends. You have email. You keep current on all things news related. I love that you share my taste for Asian, Indian, and Thai foods and that you are becoming really interested in healthy food options. You are ready to take on additional challenges in school...keep communicating with me girl. I am your mother first... but I am also one of your biggest fans.

Grayson - I listen to you talk to your friends, read your sports books, or talk to me on the phone and I hear a different voice lately. Deeper...with cultural references, sports terms, slang...and full of opinions...it is evident how much you have grown this year. I know this move was hard for you and we are proud of how you have handled yourself. You are a sports addict... and it is a lot of fun for us to let you stay up late watching the Colts play, taking you to a hockey game, or watching you throw around a ball in the backyard. Today someone called you "handsome." Instead of cute. I guess that means you are growing up too.

Claire - You morphed into your own person this year. You now have (and share) your opinions. You have found your own interests... and your own voice. You became a reader. And a writer. Your literacy skills are some powerful tools. Use them to make that voice heard.... because you have great stuff to share. I love that you often don't change out of your pajamas...pick out your own clothes...and rollerskate for hours inside and out. Now if you could just figure out that bike thing...

Cooper - Oh boy. I worried you would never talk. Now I worry you won't ever stop. You are a dynamo...filled with raw energy. Independent...almost to a fault. Busy...clever...but still just two. You are just on the edge of showing us who you will become...and unlike your sister, I don't EVER worry you won't find your voice. You love your daddy, your siblings, your preschool, and food with reckless abandon. You fill me up. You also wear me out. Learing to say "I wub you Mom" may have just saved your life this year. Keep working it my man.

So... new house, new school, new friends, new puppy... we've changed the energy in this family quite a bit this year. It's all very bittersweet. But... as Grayson is fond of saying, "I've got your back".... and "We are a team." We do... and we are.

Love,

Mom

Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T11:29:00.003-05:00

At least once in a lifetime, everyone should have the kind of Christmas we had this year.

Grandparents are here, the kids sang at Christmas Eve service, there is a possibility of a white Christmas, and our family grew by four feet.

We decided this year to try to keep the "stuff" to a minimum...and try to focus on making memories. When we came home from church after Christmas Eve service, a box was wiggling and whining under the tree.

I can't wait to watch the video that Monte took... It as the kind of moment I wish I could have frozen as I couldn't watch all the kids' expressions at once. The kids welcomed our new goldendoodle puppy...Abigail Christmas Savage (Abby) with shouts, shrieks, and tears.

Monte and I welcomed her at midnight, three and six o'clock am....as anticipated. It's crazy... we know it. But I know how fast the moments fly by...and how quickly life can change. It was a once in a lifetime Christmas. We hope you had one too.

Merry Christmas ...and may God bless you with the heart of a child this new year.

Christmas Program

2010-12-20T14:12:00.003-05:00

It just isn't Christmas (at least by Methodist standards) until you've done the Christmas program. There must be a Mary, Joseph, wise men, angels and shepherds. And, if you ARE Methodist, you know there must also be food. It has been my children's experience that church=donuts and that Christmas programs=potluck. It's as certain as sunrise.

I am thankful that we have landed in a church here that believes as we do... in the Christmas play. And the potluck. And in teaching the children (and reminding us) what Christmas is all about.

Merry Christmas!

Sometimes Christmas Comes Early...

2010-12-16T16:17:00.003-05:00

Dear Emma, Grayson, Claire and Cooper,

I know there is a lot of hype surrounding Christmas... and not all of it is good. The shopping, the cleaning, the cooking... it can distract us from the real reason behind the season. No matter what the politically correct world we live in tries to tell you - it is about Jesus. His birth and His love.

In that spirit, Christmas came early for me this year. I'm telling you about it because I hope you make the time to do this - at least once - in your life. More often if you can. You see, it's addicting. It's Christmas.

You all have more than you need. In that, you are blessed. But you don't need it all. So I cleaned house. You didn't even notice it - that tells me I could probably do it again. And should.

I took games, toys, puzzles, and clothes - all in remarkably good shape and put it in bags - disguised as trash. I put it in my car and drove it to one of the daycares I service in Durham. The teachers knew I was coming - I had asked if I could donate some things to some kids I had noticed wear the same clothing day after day. They graciously agreed to let us help.

When I pulled up wearing my Santa hat and unloaded the bags, the teachers let the kids watch. It was a "joyful noise" as only God-led African-American southern women could do (Yes, I asked them if I could say that). I went to see a kiddo for speech while the teachers and kids sorted things out. I hadn't brought in that much ... but when I got back to the classroom 40 minutes later, it was apparent some things had changed. New toys were playing explored, clothes were being tried on, and the kids were excited about a little bit of something new in their day. And the teachers were grateful.

You see, that's my point. It doesn't have to be a lot. Or new. But doing something for someone else CHANGES things. It may give someone something they didn't have before. I guarentee it will give you something even better. The feeling I get every time I compliment a little girl on her "new dress" that immediately brings to mind you wearing it... takes my breath away.

You might disagree with this next statement because of your ages. But I can tell you with absolute certainty... if Santa didn't bring another present this year, Christmas still came to our house...just a little early.

Love,

Mom

Girl Scout Thin Mint Recipe

2010-12-15T14:38:00.004-05:00

Dear Friends,
It is only because I love you (and I can no longer make them in knee deep snow with Mary Jo in Wisconsin) that I am imparting to you my GSTM recipe. I regret I no longer have the original... but it was no good anyway. Savage kids, if you save any of my recipes, save this one.

Ingredients - Ghiradelli melting and candymaking chocolate- Sam's is the best place to get this... only available in 2.5 lb blocks at Christmastime. Do NOT get the cheap waxy melting chocolate. It is not worth the effort. Peppermint extract. Get two if you can find them as they sell out this time of year. Ritz crackers. Circles... not snowflake. The corners break off. Low-salt variety is the best but reg is fine too.

Melt choc. slowly in a double boiler. I use a smaller pan inside a big pan filled with water. Do not allow water to boil and stir frequently as you don't want it to scorch. Break 2.5 block into smaller pieces and melt that way. When choc. pot is 3/4 full, take off heat and add 3-4 tsp ppmt extract. Do the taste test. I like mine minty as I find some of the extract evaporates in the heat. Stir well. Put in cracker horizonatally...flip with fork so both sides are covered and take out (with fork) and place on wax paper on cookie sheet. Use wax paper so cookies don't stick. When you have a sheetful, put in freezer or outside for 10-15 minutes until almost (or) frozen. Not only are they easier to deal with when frozen, but they taste better this way... as well GSTM connieseurs know.

Make a bunch and freeze them. They make excellent ice cream sandwiches for summer and I have been known to use some crushed as ice cream topping. If there are any left over that is...

If you make them and love them, let me know. If you don't love them, it must be operator error!

Proud of You Guys ....

2010-12-04T13:37:00.003-05:00

Dear Emma, Grayson, and Claire,

We've been here in North Carolina almost six months now. I know how hard it was for you to leave. I know where part of your heart still is. I realize your school was comfortable and familiar and that you knew what was expected of you.

But I want you to know how proud I am of you. You have risen to the occasion on so many levels. You have stretched and grown in ways I hadn't expected. You are stronger than you know.

I am especially proud of your efforts at school. All of you are gifted differently ... and I am happy to see you utilizing them. While grades are important ... equally as important are the character traits described by your teachers. Academics are only a (small) part of who makes you who you are. A kind and giving spirit will always give you more happiness than straight A's.

Thank you for believing in yourselves and in us as a family. We know we've rocked your world a few times. Thank you for rocking ours.

Love,
Mom and Dad

A Break From Regularly Scheduled Programming ...

2010-11-16T13:39:00.002-05:00

to bring you this conversation I had with Emma this morning. It was a totally typical morning.. cereal bowls, messes made by toddler, morning chores and the "litany" of things to get accomplished today. Emma stopped me and said "Mom, when you are a grownup, who decides what things get done first?"

I said, "I do." And kept going. Faster, as the clocked ticked closer to the time I needed everyone out the door for school.

"So ... God doesn't tell you? I thought He told you everything." ( Note ... this is in response to the "hard questions" as they come up. My "go-to" answer is always God. This is not in reference to my superior praying skills or Bible reading. Not even close.)

I stopped. No good answer there. Because He does tell me what to do first. I just don't always listen. Dishes before Prayer? Girl Scouts (or any other after school activity) before filling my Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box ... still sitting there from Sunday?

I searched her face for sarcasm. She's 9. It happens. There was none. She was simply curious. How does a grownup choose what to do first? How to fill their day? How to spend their money?

I searched my heart for the answers I knew where there. God does tell me. I just don't always listen. So that's what I told her.

On that note ... while I am completely "out there" ... there is a little girl orphaned in China with a heart defect. I got an email about her months ago and prayed she would find her family. She hasn't yet. If you are reading this and this stirs something in your soul, let me know and I can get you her information.

Thanks to Emma, this is getting out there instead of the Halloween decorations getting put away. I guess that's what God wanted me to do first.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-03T14:51:00.003-04:00

Belated Boos to everyone from the south - where we wore our flip flops on Halloween!

We started the day missing old "haunts" from the midwest ... but rallied in time to trick or treat in the neighborhood. It didn't take Cooper long to figure out what that was all about ... and he was out and about far longer than we anticipated! His candy bag weighed as much as he does ... apparently because nobody could resist the 2 yr old elephant charm.

Emma was a hippie, Grayson was a ghoul, Claire dressed as a "good witch" and Cooper wore the elephant costume yet again. Old habits die hard. It will be difficult to retire that costume as it has been worn many years with love. Chocolate covered blessings to you all ...

Outer Banks Birthday ...

2010-10-14T14:39:00.003-04:00

So ... I am tardy with this post and Claire turned six years old ...two weeks ago today. What can I say? At least I am consistent.

Six years and two weeks ago, our third beautiful baby was born. Everything was expected to be routine. Until it wasn't. I remember my mommy-sense kicking in and hearing her cry - differently than the others. Weaker. Less enthusiastic. I remember my doctor talking to me ... faster and very verbosely than the others. It was our third delivery together - and I knew him pretty well. The nurses didn't immediately tell me her apgar scores. Again - I knew something was different. But I had seen her - and knew she was beautiful. And crying. And alive. So... I prayed. We prayed. And I watched as my husband followed our daughter down to the NICU.

As I recovered, I remembered hearing snippets of conversation .... revolving around a possible heart issue. I vividly recall my "deal" with God. You know the ones I'm talking about. They start with "Dear God, if you will only ________, then I promise to _______." I began to bargain. I knew what I wanted from Him ... but I didn't know what to offer in return. So I promised to love her. Every day. With all my heart. And that she would know Him. Every day. With all her heart. So ... she needed her heart. A healed one.

She was in the NICU for 8 hours. One of the shortest stays on record. A lifetime to us. Her heart was pronounced perfect by specialists. So I had a bargain to uphold. We have loved this child every day of her six year two week old life. She knows the love her God, her family, and her friends have for her. And I am so glad we got to celebrate this birthday with her on the beach. In the rain. Touring lighthouses. Ghostcrabbing. Eating donuts. Swimming in hot-tubs. Happy 6th birthday Claire. We have many more to celebrate.

Outter Banks - Part Two

2010-10-08T09:05:00.002-04:00

On the way home we asked the kids their favorite parts of the trip. As anticipated, the beach came in first. It was closely followed by Duck donuts (made to order and still warm) and the newly adopted hermit crabs (which provided a lot of entertainment on rainy days). I guess when you are 6, 7, and 9 - that is an appropriate appreciation of things.

For me, the lighthouses still hold a sort of magical power. They must. We drove close to 2 hours one way just to see and climb Hatteras. In the rain. The kids skimmed over the history but were excited to climb over 200 steps to share in the view the lighthouse keepers held for many years. I admit, I was happy to corral Cooper at the bottom and take some pictures.

We climbed Currituck and Hatteras. Bodie Island was under construction so we just drove past. We so wanted to get to Ocracoke Island ... but the ferry was not running due to weather conditions. Just as well. It is a trip not to be rushed. Next time.

Outer Banks Trip ... Part One

2010-10-07T14:57:00.007-04:00

I have long loved the Outer Banks. It is natural, beautiful, and has plenty of history. Since we are now so much closer, we thought the kids should see it. It was also timely as Emma's social studies class is studying the lighthouses. What better way to study them?

We rented a beach house in Corolla. Good friends Janet and Tony drove all the way from Illinois to join us. We were just coming off a tremedous vacation in Fort Wayne and were hoping the beach would distract the kids (and me) from missing our friends.

We wanted to see the wild horses (only a mile or two up the road) but weather prohibited it this time. In fact, weather threatened to prohibit most of the planned events as tropical storm Nicole rolled through. But ... we did it all anyway. We swam, we beached it (when it wasn't raining ... and even when it was), we collected shells, we hot tubbed, and we ghost crabbed with a delightful family from a neighboring state. We saw lighthouses, ate Duck Donuts (legendary), researched area wildlife and history, rocked in Nags Head Hammocks, adopted hermit crabs and flew a kite. We searched for wild horses and passed the spot where the Wright brothers first flew at Kitty Hawk. We had really yummy fish tacos too.

Best of all, we enjoyed the company of some lifelong friends as well as each other. As we left, the kids were asking when we could come back again ... and bring more friends. Soon I hope.

It is soul stirring to see the kids falling in love with the ocean. It never fails to take my breath away or to quiet my racing mind. I am glad they feel small in the midst of it. I am thankful they realize its Creator and theirs. I am ecstatic they always choose it instead of an amusement park.

I haven't told them they have only seen half of the Outer Banks. I'll just keep that part a secret for now...

Sometimes God Uses Shoes ...

2010-09-21T16:16:00.003-04:00

A while ago, I heard a great sermon about God using who and what He can to "get His point across." It was far more eloquent than that ... but I got the gist ... and it stuck. He drove the point home today.

All four kids were home this morning. We had a deposit slip in hand and shoes were on. I wasn't dressed yet but I was going to do that after all the kids were in the car. We were headed to the bank. It was 10:18. Then Cooper had a two year old "moment." It was over which shoes he was willing to wear. Silly. Trivial. Frustrating.

I let it play out. When it was over I looked at the clock it was 10:30. Takes four minutes to get to the bank ...should I go? Nope. Still wasn't dressed. I have to go in ... and take all the kids... no driveup at our bank. It is inside a grocery store. Not today.

The bank was robbed at exactly 10:30 this morning.

God uses what He can. Today, He used shoes. And a two year boy.

Thank You God.

The Journey vs. the Destination ...

2010-09-16T21:21:00.005-04:00

The kids were asking for an "outing" today. We went to the bank, the pool, and the grocery store. I thought we accomplished said outing. In my mind, it was successful. No blood and not much whining. Apparently, it wasn't much "fun."

So... after some thought, I found a nearby park we hadn't visited. I researched it online, texted a friend to get her opinion, and mapquested the route. We finished dinner early and headed to the park. It was gorgeous ... with a lake, trails, and a cool tower you could climb. We saw deer and even met an (honest to goodness) Park Ranger and he pointed out various wildlife. I almost broke an arm patting myself on the back for what a fine job I had done planning this.

On the way home I glanced at the cemetery near our subdivision. I always do. The kids and I used to "walk the cemetery" in the last two communities where we've lived... but we hadn't done it in a while. I asked them if they would like to stop. Absolutely.

The trip there was unplanned. The destination ... a bit unconventional. But I can't tell you how much I got out of my kids while we were there. Education at its best. We did math (figuring out how long a person lived), reading (lots of names), social studies (who is likely related to who), a lot of talk about respect (cemetery etiquette) and God.

Emma and Grayson were particularly drawn to the grave of a six year girl. It had a light. It was getting dark and Claire pointed out it was likely " her nightlight." Gulp. Yes, I agreed. Wasn't it nice she has one? Then Claire surprised me. "She doesn't need one ..." she said. "She's in heaven."

Emma looked at me with the understanding of a soul beyond her nine years. She didn't even argue when I told all of them (with a huge lump in my throat) ... "But I'll bet it makes her parents feel better."

I don't doubt they will remember the park. But I'm so glad for those moments in life when God reminds us that the journey is often so much more than the destination.

My Kind of Time Share ....

2010-09-15T09:48:00.003-04:00

I decided to win some "Mother of the Year Points" from Claire by volunteering to keep Lucky the class guinea pig for a portion of track out. I felt pretty sure that I would immediately feel validated in my litany of "THIS is why we would NEVER have a guinea pig...." and that the kids would concur.

I thought a guinea pig would smell (not a bit), keep us awake all night (haven't even heard the little guy), and be not at all fun (turns out he is rather charming). He is really people oriented, makes little noises when you talk to him, and takes vegetables from your hand rather daintily.

And did I mention ... he is not at all fazed by our occasionally boisterous household? This must seem tranquil after being surrounded by a classroom of Kindergarteners.

At the end of four days, the kids may be sad to see him go. If they are, there are two or three trackouts left. We may be able to book the same timeshare for December!

Museum of Natural Sciences

2010-09-14T20:19:00.003-04:00

We are blessed to be living in an area rich with culture. There are museums and other opportunities to learn outside the classroom everywhere we look. Today we took some time to venture over to just one of the museums in Raleigh. There were dinosaurs, waterfalls, live animals, movies about indigenous animals to NC, and a fantastic discovery room where the kids could do hands-on learning.

Did I mention some of the dinosaurs were life-sized? And equipped with sound effects? Yep... that made Cooper do some of his own sound effects. They sounded alot like crying.

"Weddy Doe Mom" .....

2010-09-08T14:13:00.002-04:00

"Tum on Mom!" Yep, Cooper was "weddy" for his first day of preschool today. Armed with his Diego backpack (thank you Auntie Janet) and a snack, he practically ran to the van.

Once he got there, he thought I would be staying ... just like at meet the teacher day. Guess I forgot to mention that I had mommy things to do. The lip came out and the eyes teared up ... and I had that mommy guilt brewing in my stomach. Momentarily. Fortunately, I had an appt and couldn't linger. Kiss and hug and off I went.

He cried. He settled down. He played, made a craft, went outside and had a snack. He crashed in the car before we made it out of the driveway. What more could I want from a preschool for two year olds?

Besides, how cute does he look standing outside with that backpack on? Seriously.

All Hail the FLOBEE!!!

2010-09-03T08:58:00.004-04:00

I've occasionally been accused of being "thrifty." Some would say cheap. Not with all things ... but I try to watch what I can. When we took the move to this area, that skill had to be exercised a bit more regularly as the cost of living is quite a bit higher than the midwest.

So, when I heard that TWO of my neighbors had (and regularly used) the Flobee for cutting their kids' hair ... my ears perked up and the mental calculations of savings started in my head.

When one of those neighbors offered to actually cut the boys' hair using it, I jumped at the chance. After all, what boy wouldn't get a huge KICK out of getting their hair cut with an attachment hooked on to the vaccuum cleaner? Win-win.

The boys went first. I wasn't nervous for them. The neighbor and his son looked pretty good ... and they use it religiously. Then ... you know where this is going ... the GIRLS wanted to use it. You know, my girls with the CURLY hair ... the day before school pictures no less.

I had a bit of a dilemma. I so want to be the kind of parent who lets their kids take adventures - especially the safe kind - like hair. But .. the tiniest bit of me was a wee bit nervous with a vaccuum attachment stuck to the side of Claire's head. Again, my neighbor exuded confidence.

We went for it. All four kids got really good haircuts. The day before pictures. With no appts. For free. And all the hair was sucked into the vaccuum. Claire even wrote about it in Writers Workshop. How often do kids care enough about haircuts to write about them? But it makes me wonder what the teacher thinks of me... as Claire just wrote about the vaccuum part - conveniently forgetting about the "Flobee" part.

I just checked on line. You can still buy them. If you aren't lucky enough to have TWO neighbors that already have them =) A huge thanks to R and R for letting us barge in and take up their evening. The check is in the mail.

Terrible Twos....

2010-08-31T12:38:00.005-04:00

I admit it. I had forgotten. It has been a while since Claire was two ... and well, she was either easier... or I was so busy with the others that I overlooked some of it.

There is a connection to this boy of mine that is unearthly. It is a powerful and unyielding love that would move mountains. But then, it wouldn't have to. Because he would have already done it. After he threw his cup down the vent, dumped out the dog's water dish, jammed a cheese slice into the VCR player (yep... we still own one), and climbed up onto the kitchen counter. Sigh.

He is busy. He is whiny. He is verbal. He is boundary-pushing. He is HARD. He is two.

Again, there is nothing in the world I wouldn't do for him. But that doesn't mean he's easy. Or that he doesn't wear me out. As my friend Marci said (so wisely) ... "Welcome to the land of the two year old boy... it's been a while since you visited." Indeed. I'm here now ... and afraid I've lost the directions.

There are currently four things that save his life on a daily basis... his nap, moments when he dons a tiara (or other fashion accessory left lying around) and flashes a killer smile, his father coming home from work, and the bond between brothers. Seeing Grayson interact with Cooper tells me all will be well. The bats, the balls, and the bruises is all part of it. Cooper will survive this ... and I will too. I just have to remind Monte to screw down the rest of the air vents.

Claire can tie her shoes ...

2010-08-30T12:17:00.005-04:00

and her roller skates!!! Independently. Whoo-hoo!!!

I will take a time out from my celebratory dance to admit to something. I bribed her. Yes I did.

Not only her .. but her older siblings as well. You see, Claire is a bit of a middle child. I apologize if you don't believe in that whole "birth order" thing ... but I've lived it ... and around here ... it's the gospel.

The middle child in Claire manifests itself in a little bit of a confidence problem and a little bit in the "just tell me what to do so I don't have to exert a lot of effort in thinking about it" phenomena. She also really loves to do things on her own time schedule ... which is a bit more of a problem now that an ENTIRE day of Kindergarten fills her dance card five days per week.

Other kids in the class have begun to tie their shoes. She has to ask one of her sibs (or me) to tie her roller skates ... worn every day. It was starting to irk her .. but not enough to really do much about it.

Hence the bribery. She has asked for a pillow pet forever. For. Ever. We bargained. Tie your shoes ... get a pillow pet. Deal signed. Pinky sworn.

We tried. We cried. We gave up.

I realized I had to bring in the big guns. Emma and Grayson. I tried appealing to their Christian sides. Jesus would most certainly want them to help their sister. That worked. For a day.

So I bribed them. Don't judge me. Whoever succeedes in helping their sister tie her shoes ALSO gets a pillow pet. Or the cash it would cost. Minus shipping and handling (yep... Emma asked).

In three short days ... she has learned. It's not fast ... it's not yet automatic. But I no longer have to do it. To me, that's worth a few pillow pets. And you should see my middle child smile.

Muscadines Ya'll!

2010-08-25T21:55:00.004-04:00

I'll be you didn't know that scuppernongs are the state fruit of North Carolina. We didn't either.

But there is a lot of talk about grapes down here .. and people have been talking about "pick your own" season for a while now. It started last weekend. You know, when it was 98 in the shade.

I love a good wine -- I mean... grape -- so off we went. We even drug our poor houseguests with us. Friends who sweat together stay together.

The scenery was beautiful. The grapes were tasty. We quickly realized none of us had been taught how to determine ripeness of different grape varieties. No matter, the kids were picking every last one - ripe or not.

We've eaten grapes every day since Saturday. We're going again - once the enamel on my teeth grows back.

Thank you Tim and Lori!!!

2010-08-24T14:45:00.004-04:00

The other day we got an Edible Arrangment. Quite honestly, it shocked us a bit. For us? Really? Check the names ...again. Anniversary? Nope. Birthday ... um ... Cooper's ... but it seemed doubtful any of his toddler friends would be savvy enough to order this up. What could be the occasional for such a yummy treat?

Turns out, it was a surprise house-warming present from my cousin and his lovely girlfriend. (In fact, the handsome devil is pictured in the last post. He's the guy on the right.) The "bouquet" consisted of chocolate covered fruit. ON STICKS! What could be better to a group of kids... and their parents?

The timing was perfect. We had houseguests from Indiana staying with us ...and they have a toddler who loves "choc-it" ... and I had no dessert planned. It was sooo much fun!

A big thank you to Tim and Lori... you made our day!

He Would Have Loved This Picture ...

2010-08-16T13:47:00.002-04:00

My uncle George loved pictures. He was always taking them, organizing them, and emailing them off to people (usually in CD form). This one was a long time coming ... but I know he would have liked it.

In it are three cousins ... one on the west coast ... one on the east coast ... and one smack dab in the middle. We met up in Georgia to celebrate the life of Kevin's dad and our uncle.

There is a lot more to say about George ..but I'm not ready yet.

It just struck me today that he's probably still checking in on my blog ... and I wanted there to be something for him to smile about when he does.

Magic All Around

2010-08-13T20:36:00.003-04:00

I tend to take a "practical" view of most things. There are a few things though ... that are magical.

Every time. Undeniably.

As God would have it, two of those things are happening right now in my house.

Cooper is talking. Phrases. Questions. Statements. Not full conversation ... but he is verbal.

It's exhausting. It's miracuolous. When children learn language ... and start to apply it - it just gives me goosebumps. Spoken language is how we relate to each other. Think of the power of what you say and how you say it. Frightening really ... and God gives this power to a toddler. But He does.

Claire is reading ... and writing. Again ... not full conversations ... but she is learning by leaps and bounds. When she goes through her sight words at night, she sometimes asks me why I tear up.

She isn't impressed by the power of reading yet. But I never fail to be. She doesn't know what kinds of worlds will be opened to her by reading... but I do. She may see reading as a chore ...but I know it's a magical gift. Again ... the power ... given to such a tender age.

Is it louder in my house recently? You bet. Do I sometimes get frazzled and forget to consider myself blessed? Oh yes. But it only takes the evening routine to remind me ... those simple flashcards, simple words written on a whiteboard ... and "night-night Mommy" brings me back to the magic. All around me.

Now Welcoming House Guests....

2010-07-29T12:21:00.003-04:00

We are having our first houseguest since moving here to NC. My mom is coming for a nine day stay. Hope she is easily entertained as I don't know my way around too much as yet!

Many people have asked about the house.. so I am posting a picture here so you know what it looks like when you come visit. No basement here .. but we do have a "bonus room" on the third floor. It's equipped with a bed and a full bath. And four kids who would love to see you!

You are officially invited as the Savage Inn is open for business! No excuses now Northerners!

Say Cheese!

2010-07-26T09:59:00.004-04:00

Seriously... was there any other choice for a title?

This is what happens when you combine a toddler, processed cheese food, and a mommy trying to fold laundry.

Sigh.

Highcroft Hurricanes Swim Banquet 2010

2010-07-25T20:18:00.002-04:00

We came. We ate. We sweated. (Is that the correct past tense?)

Despite a heat index of 111 degrees, the swimmers and their families attended a great end of the season banquet at Bond Park in Cary. The kids all received trophies with their names on them ... big stuff at this age. And... they got to watch a slideshow full of pictures taken throughout the summer. On the way home, we topped off the evening with frozen ice treats from Rita's. Our new family favorite - think differently flavored snowcones in a cup... only smoother.

Throughout the evening I kept thinking ...we didn't really even feel all that new anymore. Good times.

Prayers for Health

2010-07-21T09:55:00.002-04:00

And so it goes.

The every day marches on ... bringing with it a host of minutia. Activities, schedules, commitments, fires to put out and dramas to stop watching all keep the mind on the smaller things. Then something happens to bring it all back into perspective.

In the past two days, we've had some fairly serious medical blips on our personal and extended family radar. I am reminded of a certain radiologist and what he told me back in my hospital days. "It only takes a moment for a life to be turned upside down." How right he was.

So, in the midst of the minutia - I am saying a prayer for health on the part of our loved ones. May they know the ways of our hearts, the strength of our spirits, and the power of our prayers.

Serenity Now....

2010-07-13T09:43:00.002-04:00

It is 9:43 am and with coffee in hand, I am trying to go to my happy place. The "littles" are squabbling, I am "reliving" a committee meeting from last night that infuriates me, there is copious amounts of dry cereal on the floor, the organizational status of the house is nowhere like I'd want it to be, and we have an away swim meet tonight. On a school night... which means tomorrow may shape up to turn out ALOT like today.

So ... since I am looking at some "zen" beach pictures from last week, I thought others might enjoy them too. Calgon.....take me away.....

First Full Day of School for All ....

2010-07-12T09:52:00.002-04:00

While Emma and Grayson started school on Friday, Claire had to wait until today as they have a staggered entry school system for Kindergarten students here. We now have a 4th grader, 2nd grader, and Kindergartner! And ... one in preschool!

The "bigs" were ready to roll ... and Claire was too ... last night. This morning she woke up with a bit of a tummy ache. I think her nerves were getting the best of her. Thankfully, we had purchased a (huge) bag of guinea pig food to take to donate to Lucky, their class pet. With pet food and princess lunch box in hand, it was hard to feel down for very long.

With all the school supplies, backpacks, and other extras, we had to take the wagon to school. At the end of our street, there is a backpath that leads directly to the school. From our door, it is literally one street over. That's nice. Especially because it is already 90 degrees.

They just look so big - don't they?

A Day at the Beach...

2010-07-09T10:54:00.002-04:00

We took a day mid-week to take our first excursion to "the beach." The kids had been begging to go since we arrived here. Wrightsville is only two hours from here ... thought we'd take a day trip. It was 100 degrees so there were people there ... but we found parking and were able to spend about five hours getting our crevices filled with sand.

"The Bigs" immediately began to body surf and boogie board... while "the Littles" started out on the sand and moved more slowly into the waves. By the end of the day, we had to literally "go in after them" to put them in the car.

There is an aquarium 15 minutes south of the beach ... and next day we vote to spend the night so we can get more things in ... aquarium, ice cream ... and some shopping for the discriminating seashell seekers. Not that we had ANYONE who fought over who-got-which-shell. Not us.

A Special Kind of Bond...

2010-07-05T23:57:00.003-04:00

exists between each one of the kids. Their bonds are strong, sacred, and as unique as their personalities. It is fun to see how they change ... how one may step up ... and another steps along side. Their relationships are, despite many changes, one of the truest constants.

Does that mean my house sounds like a Hallmark commercial? Hardly. I think these just about capture it. Underneath it all... I think they really love each other. Maybe. Some day.

North Carolina 4th of July!

2010-07-04T23:10:00.001-04:00

Happy Fourth of July!!!

We spent our first major holiday here with a pool party followed by a fun-filled night with friends on a cul-de-sac behind our house. Food, fun, and fireworks ... what more can we ask for? Thank you to all our NC friends for making today a special day for us!!!

What a Difference ...

2010-07-01T14:53:00.002-04:00

four years can make. I was browsing through old pictures and found some from summer of 2006. Four years ago... we were living in Morton, IL with three kids. Claire was using floaty arms and a ring to enjoy the pool. Here were are in North Carolina (after a three year stop in Indiana) with four kids ... and Claire is swimming in three events in tonight's meet.

I remember that summer well ... and we never would have dreamt our lives would change in soooo many ways. How many new people we would meet ... places and experiences we would see. Not that we wouldn't have been content to stay there... but what would we have missed out on? What would we have gained?

One thing is for sure ... they are growing up so fast.

Durham Bulls Game

2010-06-27T23:03:00.002-04:00

GE Aviation owns some tickets in the first and second rows immediately behind home plate for home Durham Bulls baseball games. We were the lucky recipients for Saturday night's game. We had a server and were fully enclosed by wire ... so no foul balls hitting unsuspecting children. Whoo-hoo!

It was HOT .. even when the sun went down, so had no idea how the kids would react to the game. They loooved it! It helped alot that it was Military Appreciation Day (lots of neat songs to sing and things to watch). Sargeant Slaughter (remember him from his wrestling days?) was there ... as was Pablo the Backyardigan. Too bad my batteries died ... missed a good photo op.

We did not stay until the end ...even though the kids begged us to. The Bulls had a big lead and it was pushing 10:30 pm. We piled six tired, hot, and sweaty bodies into the van hearing a chorus of "When can we go back again???"

Future baseball fans I think....

Highcroft Swim Team

2010-06-22T23:41:00.004-04:00

Today marks a week we've been here in Cary. It was also our second meet as Highcroft Hurricanes. It was hot again ... but I seem to be getting a bit more used to it. In fact, the kids complained all day today it was too cold in the house. They even had blankets on to watch TV.

They are acclimating well. They all had fun at the meet and quickly found friends to sit with and pass the time between events.

Watching Emma, Grayson and Claire all swim just puts a lump in my throat every time ... no matter how they do. They have all come a long way ... in the pool and out ... and I am so proud of them.

Cary, NC

2010-06-21T23:08:00.003-04:00

Here we are. The boxes are (almost) unpacked. We've eaten a meal that has not been wrapped in paper. The sheets are on the beds. Everyone knows where the bathrooms are.

But it doesn't feel like home yet. The area is beautiful. The people are nice. The sweet tea is delicious. Our friends aren't here. There is no pond (or swans or ducks) behind the house. The phone is not ringing nonstop ... "Can _____ come over to play?"

It's not Ft Wayne. Or Morton. Or Milwaukee.

Moving is hard. It always is. But we will get there. Thanks for all of your support.

I Hope We Find ....

2010-06-08T19:02:00.002-04:00

duplicates of the friends (and their parents) the kids have made while here in Ft Wayne. Both Grayson and Emma have a special "core" of friends... they may not see them every day outside of school ... or they might. But regardless of how much time they spend together, they just seem to pick up where they left off. It's special. I have that with some people ... and I understand what it means to "hit if off."

We had a going away party last weekend (more on that later) and I got to live that experience with my friends ... and watch my kids live it with theirs. This is an incredible picture of Grayson and some of his "peeps." They played together for HOURS ... with nary a word from them. More importantly, I love their parents. I trust them with my child ... and they trusted me with theirs. They are special. Thank you for being there.

Hope there are more just like you.

Picking Wildflowers

2010-06-07T21:22:00.002-04:00

We are a mere five days away from leaving Indiana headed for North Carolina. So many things to do ... so little time. For that reason, we have stopped the lawn service. That sounds pretentious. Rather, Monte stopped putting weed stuff on the lawn. Being 700 miles away makes that tough to do.

Little did we know what fun it would be for the kids to have "flowers" to pick. Many a bouquet has been made from clover, dandelions, and other weeds. It has kept the two "littles" entertained for HOURS.

Why didn't we think of this years ago????

Little Ballerina

2010-06-06T10:19:00.003-04:00

This has been a busy weekend. Dance recital, going away party, and Grayson's 7th birthday party. Claire and Phoebe and her dancemates entertained us with "Gitchee-Goo" and "Swiss Miss" routines. They were so cute we hardly noticed the other 27 numbers.

Ok - maybe we noticed them. While there is something a little bit painful about sitting through alot of little girls twirling and whirling around the stage, the smiles were totally worth it.

The End of An Era ....

2010-06-02T16:53:00.002-04:00

starts today. For the first time in 13 years, I do not have a job. I saw my last kiddo today. I thought it best to use next week to try to get the kids (and myself) in the proper mindset for the move to NC. I won't even lie to you about how it went. I got to the car ... then cried.

And so it's gone throughout the day. One moment I am excited about using the time to spend with Cooper ... reading books and doing the shapesorter ... and the next minute I am terrified .. thinking about losing my skills ...missing the work ... and turning into a Facebook junkie.

I am aware of how fortunate I am that I happen to love what I do. I am doubly blessed in that I can do what I love ... part time ... during the hours of my choosing. Few get that chance. Fewer still have gotten what I have from my job. The people ... moments ... and life-changing experiences are indelibly etched into my memory.

I love my life and my kids. I know how many working moms would kill to change places with me. I understand that position. I just know that for me ... my job makes life make more sense. It quite often gives me perspective that I need. It is, quite honestly, my ministry.

So ... the idea of part-time work ... sometime down the road ... is something I would like to pursue. It is the perfect blending of my universes.

But for today, I am going to wipe my tears, sell my riding lawnmower (who needs a John Deere when the lot is smaller than a postage stamp?), and enjoy the homemade cookies I made today.

A Letter to Our Kids ...

2010-05-27T09:47:00.002-04:00

I don't know what you will remember about this move in the years to come. I imagine some of you will recall a feeling of uncertainty .. and leaving your friends.

I want you to know that we are so insanely proud of you. For your ages, you have weathered this season of change with surprising maturity. I wish I fared so well.

For the record, this move to North Carolina came on the heels of our move to Indiana from Illinois three and a half years ago. It seems like a lot of transition. It is. Especially for a family with four young kids. But ... you are precisely the reason we are doing it. We want things for you ... but not the "things" you accumulate and have to move. We want the things for you that you develop. Insight. Character. Maturity. Coping skills. Education. Experiences that Broaden Your Horizons.

You don't have to move to acquire these skills sets. But in our unique case, GE can help us by being a means to an end. Moving is uncomfortable. Most change is. But it means we learn something new ... and that opens different doors. Our advice to you ... open as many doors as you can. You never know when you may need to knock on one ... or five.

You will need to further your education. I don't know what God plans for each of you. I know this - that it is our job to prepare you the BEST we can. You need to know how big this world is... because by the time you are grown, it will probably be shrinking. We want you to know you can go anywhere and do anything. In order for you to really know that, we need to model that behavior.

It isn't easy. It isn't comfortable. It is necessary. It builds us. We can do it. As long as we are together. Thanks for understanding.

Hillary Was Right About Something ...

2010-05-23T09:01:00.001-04:00

... it really does take a village to raise a child. I imagine it takes a small city to raise four children. If you don't live close enough to family, that village had better be full of amazing selfless people. It is.

As we prepare to leave this village and settle in the next one, I can't help but look back and thank all those people who have left indelible marks on us ... and our children. Especially when Monte has been gone. You have called, stopped by, sent cards, delivered dinner, taken the kids to preschool, play dates, ballet, and watched them during marathon swim meets - taking the time to text me their times when I couldn't be there to cheer them on.

You've listened to me when I didn't think I could show the house one more time, leave one more neighborhood, or join one more church. You've reminded me there are good people everywhere ... and then proven it.

To the friends and family in all our villages - we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We hope you know how much you mean to us.

A Lot Can Happen In a Month ...

2010-05-18T18:12:00.003-04:00

Sooooo.... turns out, in a month's time, it is possible to ...
- sell a house
- buy a house
- show a house (fourteen or fifteen times)
- take a stress-filled house-hunting trip to NC
- manage the daily routines of a family of five without a husband ... who has already left.
- hold down two part-time jobs
- not lose, maim, or injure any children or enter rehab of any kind. Yet.

Things are actually starting to come together. Turns out, the southeast is considerably more costly with FAR different school system stuff to work through. I won't even go there now. That is post-worthy on its own. There are other issues to sort through - like child care, a job for me and year round school ... starting three weeks after it gets out here. Oh yeah ... the kids are thrilled about that one.

It will all get done. Eventually. If I can only get the moving people to call me back ... I might have a better idea of when that actually might be.

Big News....

2010-04-11T21:17:00.003-04:00

It's been a while since I have taken a minute to put thoughts down in any kind of format. But the dust is starting to clear a little ... the kids are all updated ... so it's time to share.

We are relocating to North Carolina for Monte's next role with GE. Raleigh-Durham area to be exact ... so if anyone is intimately familiar with that area and can answer the MILLION questions I have, please let me know. Monte will be reporting there May 3 ... so that leaves us precious little time to prepare the house for sale, complete all the necessary paperwork, look for a home there, etc. While we are excited for the new opportunity, we are all a bit overwhelmed at the moment.

Telling the kids was difficult... but we had been very upfront and honest with them about the whole process from the beginning so the surprise element was not a factor. There were a few tears shed while they processed missing their neighbors, teachers, schools, and friends. But we were surprised at how resilient they continue to be. While it certainly shakes up their world for a bit, the kids have learned some great strategies for coping with change. I guess that's one of the upsides.

So... we are trying to focus on those "upsides" now. Weather, proximity to the Outer Banks (one of my favorite places on earth), the number of universities nearby, and a number of cool things to do. It helps to not dwell on all the things, people, and experiences we are going to miss.

Bad Mojo .... or just bent karma?

2010-03-15T09:40:00.003-04:00

Once in college I had a "reading" in the student commons area by a questionable looking guy in dreads wearing a priest robe. Granted, it should have given me pause... but you know .. it didn't.

Anyway, the guy said I had "bent karma." What?! How long does that last? Will my karma eventually straighten out or will it always have a bend in it?

Turns out, he was a bit prophetic. I didn't do as well on the neuroanatomy exam as I would have hoped. The test was that afternoon. I think I was still a little unnerved about my karma situation but who knows? I still can't recall all my neuronal pathways.

Whatever it is called, it is happening again. Yesterday I registered Emma for camp. Online. Big mistake. Not only did I not correctly apply the $100 off coupon (really important)... but I registered her for the wrong camp entirely! Thankfully, a very patient camp representative (that God for christian camps and their workers) re-registered her. Our church (regularly) realizes what a ditz they have in their midst and is giving me the coupon anyway.

This morning I received an email from the Indiana State Police. They have rejected my fingerprints (needed to work in our local school district) citing "bad ridges." Really? I have bad thighs too but I didn't need to pay $43.oo and travel to the bowels of the city to find that out.

I have been told about the bad ridges before. In college I worked for the IRS and my prints were rejected then too. They let me work for them anyway. I was shocked. Shredding left-over forms in the back room was a highly sought-after position needing security clearance after all.

I don't know what will happen next today. But I think I must DEFINITELY stay away from all workout equipment. Who knows what could malfunction?

6 Things Every Woman Should Have....

2010-03-07T21:07:00.002-05:00

1. An affinity for sushi. Even if you don't like the raw stuff. It just makes you feel exotic.
2. A professional bra fitting. At least once in your life. Or, at the very least, after four children.
3. Starbucks. Every few hours for a day and a half.
4. An annual get-away girl's weekend.
5. A soul sister who completes your sentences, shares your dressing room, tells you the truth, and accompanies you on numbers 1-4.
6. A husband who consistenly encourages you to go indulge in numbers 1-5 ...and doesn't flinch when he gets the bill.

Getting Gabriella Grace

2010-02-26T08:30:00.002-05:00

When we were going through the adoption process, we met an amazing family with whom we share several connections. Actually, our lives have been enriched by several of these families. We have often wondered why God put adoption on our hearts if we were not to pursue it. Maybe... just maybe.... we were meant to meet such friends.

I ask for your prayers today for Curtis and Theresa as they leave for China today to get their daughter, Gabriella Grace. Theresa and I met when the only thing she knew for sure was her daughter's name. Country and timing were undecided. I was privileged to watch as God's plan was revealed in her life... and she cheered me on when His plan was revealed in mine.

I received an early morning email from her... and she is completely at peace and soooo ready to meet her daughter. But leaving her three sons was not an easy thing to do. Her family blog is www.ourwright6.blogspot.com if you want some background information. The blog to follow while they are in China is www.youbelong.net/gabriella with the password Gabriella.

Thank you for your prayers. God speed Theresa!

Grayson's Big Swim

2010-02-24T00:00:00.002-05:00

Emma and Grayson both swam a "Swim Your Own Age" meet this weekend. I just love those. They are short and the kids are pretty evenly matched... so it makes for close races and a lot of excitement. And we are home in time for lunch. Bonus.

Both kids did well with much heart and effort poured into their events. Grayson was the "top seeded" six year old boy (for the record, it cracks me up that they even seed six year olds) and he ended up scoring the most points. So he scored his first trophy for High Points in his age group and gender. Because we are the type of parents who don't really pay attention to this stuff, we had NO idea they gave awards... let alone that Grayson was in the running. Imagine his surprise when Monte had to go into the locker room to get him....

He was pretty proud of his accomplishments. Fun stuff. Way to go Grayson!!!

18 Months!!!

2010-02-20T22:36:00.003-05:00

Early in the week, the caboose to our train hit the 18 month mark. I tried all week to get some decent pics of him. Smiling. Looking at me. Nope. It might have been easier to nail jello to a tree.

But these are pretty true to life. He usually hits these "stations" at various times during his day. He climbs the slide.. and goes down feet first ... head first... whatever he thinks will draw the most attention from his adoring fans. He's loving the shape-sorters... and is getting more successful with them. He's starting to get interested in TV ("tee-tee") and can request a few shows ("Doda" and "ooh-ah" aka Dora and Curious George).

Cooper loves his siblings and has names for all of us now. Claire is "Sissy", Emma is "Memma", Grayson is "Bubby" and we are "Mommy" and "Daddy." The words are finally starting to come ... he has about 30 now and he typically adds a new approximation every week. I don't think I'll ever get tired of hearing that little voice call for "Mommy."

He continues to amaze me with his motor skills. He routinely pushes a chair over to a table or counter, climbs up on it... then calls out to me once on the table or other precarious destination. He has a wicked grin... and most wonderful giggle. He loves his mommy... but only until DADDY gets home.

At the doctor's office, we found out he's tall (90th percentile) and relatively lean (50th percentile). He's kept the blonde hair... and his eyes are hazel like his mama's. He's a fantastic sleeper like Grayson was... and is completely, totally, and seriously attached to his "nani" - a nubbly blue blanket made by a friend of mine. Big sister Emma had the same ferocious attachment to "blankie"....and only recently gave it up at bedtime. Claire's attachment to "blue bear" is legendary. It's so much to relive all of their early childhoods when Cooper shows strong connections to them.

Happy milestone little man. We love you.

Fast Forward.....

2010-02-17T14:08:00.002-05:00

Every parent has moments that make us stop. in. our. tracks. This morning was one of them for me.

It was hardly a profound or unusual setting. It was over bowls of cereal - in between various morning duties. I was only on my first cup of coffee. Here's a sampling of what I overheard:

Emma - "Hey Mom, after school can you help me make a spreadsheet of the different countries' medal winnings from the Olympics?" (Oh sure... right after I learn HOW to make a spreadsheet.)

Grayson - "Look - I made Florida out of my Cheerios. Florida is a peninsula."

Claire - Mom, what time are my (kindergarten) shots?" (Same time as Cooper's 18 month checkup)

Amidst the chaos, I just stopped. Whose life am I living? When did Emma learn to make spreadsheets for fun? How long has Grayson been using four syllable words? Is Claire REALLY going to Kindergarten in mere months? 18 month checkup?????

It's all good stuff. Exciting stuff. As long as we get to hit the pause button every once in a while.

Happy Valentine's Day 2010

2010-02-14T22:52:00.002-05:00

Emma and Grayson started the day at a swim meet... so it was an early morning for us. For the first time, Monte and I were able to sit in the stands together and watch both kids do their events. Thank goodness for teenage sitters willing to be here at 8:00 am!

Because both kids are 8 years and under, they swam in the same block of time... and both had some personal bests. Grayson even legally completed his first 100 IM! It was pretty exciting to see him do a flip turn during his 50 freestyle as well. They have both come so far... and our favorite part continues to be watching them be the part of a team and the friendships they make. Good stuff.

This evening they got to tear into the Valentines goodies that have come in the mail. Huge thank you(s) to Auntie Janet, Grandma and Grandpa, and Nana and Papa for the treats. They felt so special!!!

Before bed, we let them watch a bit of the Olympics and drink some "champagne." On the sofa. In the family room. Where they never get to eat or drink. They even know how to work staying up late... by asking great questions about where the Olympics are, what sports are included, doing the math to see who is in what place, etc. It took me a while to see what they were doing. It is amazing what they can scheme when they work together as a team.

We hope your Valentine's Day was spent with those you love.... and who love you.

Snow Day .... Again

2010-02-10T21:16:00.002-05:00

No matter how long we live in Indiana, I am still AMAZED at how frequently the local school district delays the start of school by two hours or cancels it all together. I mean... hasn't Indiana always been in the midwest? Is snow new in these parts?

While I am thankful that the district is mindful of my childrens' safety.... two days of "family togetherness" can make for very long days for this mama. Just today, Cooper attempted to climb the grandfather clock, Claire attempted to hide a contraband RED glitter pen under the couch (with the lid off ---uh huh---you see where this is going) and Emma and Grayson almost came to blows over how to best reach the blue level in Mario Bros.

So... everyone was sent OUTSIDE. To PLAY. For a LONG TIME.

That made it all better. They were too frozen and exhausted to fight.

Let's pray for school tomorrow. The carpet, the clock, and the mama can't take another day.

Fort Wayne Anniversary...

2010-01-30T11:56:00.002-05:00

Long time .... no post. Thanks to all of you who have called to see if maybe I was dead... or fallen off the face of the earth. Sorry about that. It's not as though I've had nothing to say. Time has just had an uncanny way of getting (and staying) ahead of me.

Here's an example. It's our Ft. Wayne anniversary. Three years ago this week.... we embarked on a new and very scary adventure. Leaving everyone and everything familiar.... moving from the house we brought three babies home to... and starting over. It felt like us against the world. I went along with it... but it didn't feel like "the new place" was ever going to feel like home.

Three years later... it is home. A different home. But it's familiar. We brought a baby home to this house too. And welcomed a dog... (Well, most of the time he's welcome anyway). We are comfortable here. Which brings me to the lesson God is continually trying to teach me.

He is not at all concerned with us having a "comfortable" existance. It's not about that. It's about living for Him and through Him .... so that we might live with Him. That's the whole point of this life on earth. It's not about finding our comfort zone and living there. I tend to forget that.

Our time with GE in Fort Wayne may be ending soon. The plant is ceasing manufacturing March 31st and Monte and the team will need some time to wrap things up. The familiar and comfortable will be coming to an end around the first of spring. I will miss that. Comfortable works for me.

So... as we consider our next step with GE, I am trying hard to focus on not getting too comfortable. I am recalling the move from Morton. It all worked out. We found a new home. We learned a lot. We grew a bunch. No matter where it goes from here... we will again. God will see to that.

Cutest Little Patient at Lutheran...

2009-12-31T23:39:00.003-05:00

Cooper had surgery yesterday to place tubes in his ears. We've been through it with Claire so we knew what to expect. Still, it is never easy to read the fine print of the consent forms... or watch the nurse walk your baby through those double doors.

I was at peace with the decision, procedure, facility, and doctor (his kids swim on the same team as ours... and he did Claire's tubes a few years ago) and it all went seamlessly. Prayers were answered. We were home about three hours after we left the house. Cooper managed to take two naps as he woke from the anesthesia pretty cranky.

We just had to take a few shots of him in his "gown." I really should have asked to buy it.. it was soooo cute. Especially with the diaper hanging out.

Recipe for Successful Four Girl Sleepover

2009-12-20T21:12:00.003-05:00

Prior to gathering, drop off six year old brother at "boys only" sleepover. Add together two five year old girls and two third grade girls. Add two extra large pancakes and three scrambled eggs. May not substitute fried eggs. Definitely not. Feed above to five year olds. Then order $20.00 worth of chinese food. Quickly, while you pop the popcorn. Turn on movie and turn on electric blanket. Put annoying baby brother to bed early. Fluff pillows and check on status of crab rangoon. Become informed the popcorn is "not the buttery kind." Add wine (adults only).

Talk about school, best friends, and boys with third graders. Check regularly on the internet while the 8 year olds play. Then add the following:

6 braids

3 facial treatments

2 movies

1 pan of brownies

Put five year olds to bed at 8:45. One in top bunk and one in bottom. May substitute if negotiated ahead of time. Set timer for 10:30 for third grade girls to go to bed if you fall asleep. Darn wine. May repeat recipe... but doubling is NOT recommended.

Christmas Program 2009

2009-12-12T19:59:00.006-05:00

This year Claire's preschool had their first annual Christmas program. She attends a Christian preschool - so they were "allowed" to sing as many songs about Jesus and the true reason for the season as they wanted. I must say, it was pretty refreshing to say "Merry Christmas" to everyone in the crowd and not worry about offending anyone.

Her class was dressed as shepherds and they really belted out some great songs. She was a little bummed about the costume.... as she felt it "covered her pretty dress." I, however, was amazed with what those teachers could do with some paint and a white pillow case. So we took some pictures with and without the costume.

She and her BFF, Phoebe, stole the show... and then completely rocked the dessert table afterward. We are so thankful for her preschool and the incredible foundation they are laying. We are especially thankful for Pastor Stan's lyrics to "Jesus Is A Rock and He Rolls My Blues Away..."

Wordless Wednesday (aka What You Can Do with Duct Tape)

2009-12-09T23:03:00.002-05:00

Video: Claire Goes to Cheer Camp

2009-11-21T21:32:00.006-05:00

Some genetics just can not be explained.

Claire wants to be a cheerleader.

Not just "wants" in a five year old sort of way. Like they "want" the latest toy they see advertised on TV. The five minute "want." Oh no.

This is deeper. This has staying power. This is, as the Wonder Pets would say, "see-wee-us."

So, while her two older siblings were spending the entire day at a swim meet with Monte, Cooper and I accompanied her to a cheer clinic run by Huntington University. She attended the clinic for three hours ( a marathon to a five year old) then got to come home for lunch and practice for.... drum roll please..... a HALF TIME SHOW WITH THE CHEERLEADERS during the men's basketball game!!!!!!

It was phenomenal. The entire staff at HU was top notch and obviously taken with all the wanna-be's attending the clinic. Because the University is private and Christian, there was a prayer before the game and an announcement that all spectators be courteous and refrain from profanity during the game. Classy.

I regret I didn't get more video. But it was pretty difficult to film and take pictures while wrangling Cooper ... who couldn't decide between chasing all those basketballs and flirting with the cheerleader moms.

Enjoy.

Striking a pose with official Huntington University Pompoms.....

After the half-time performance... with one of her "favorite cheerleaders." Can you see the resemblance?

I completely love this picture. I told her I wanted to get a picture with the cheerleaders before we went home AFTER the practice and BEFORE the game... just in case we didn't make it back for the half- time show. Apparently not coming back was NOT an option.

And I love the underwear showing. It's pretty impossible to take her seriously with that going on....

The piece de resistance... the video clip. Claire is the one wearing the red skirt.... and having ALL the moves...

It's the Simple Things You Miss...

2009-11-16T13:18:00.003-05:00

when you don't have it. Heat. Hot water. A pediatrician's office that provides the H1N1 vaccinations without having to drive 15 miles and stand in line 2-4 hours with four kids. Ahem.

You can see why I chose to look at these pictures today. I took them a while ago and forgot about them. After a rough 24 hours, I found myself needing to laugh. The longer I looked at them, the more I realized something. The things we take for granted. Heat. Hot water. Medical care.

I've been inconvenienced. The over-abundance of blessings that make up my life are all still there. But instead of counting them, I've been dwelling on something else.

I'm glad God called me to look over these pictures of the two busiest boys on earth. They got me back on track.

It's the simple things you (almost) miss.

The Best of Days... and the Worst of Days...

2009-11-15T22:06:00.005-05:00

Today has NOT gone the way I had hoped it would. Or planned.

We missed church... due to one snotty toddler, one crabby preschooler, and two wiped out school aged urchins. Too many nice days + too many playdates = too much attitude.

Just 14 days after a $1,000 furnace fix, both the furnace and hot water heater quit. Again. Why does it always happen after I decide to throw caution to the wind and let Cooper eat his applesauce himself? Drat. Showers at the Y. They may start to think we are homeless.

Cold shower for me. Freezing. Cold. See above.

I decided to make a cake. Our new oven does not have a locking mechanism. Cooper decided to open the oven while both of us were our of the kitchen. Thank God for "little mama" Claire who alerted us to the event and saved all of us from something very scary. Ordering oven lock today.

The homemade... from scratch .... carrot cake with the homemade cream cheese frosting ... burnt around the edges due to my "hotter than average" oven. Not to fear though... the middle decided to even things up a bit by being closer to raw. Ugh. I managed to salvage it with aluminum foil and cutting the edges out before serving. It was just about the ugliest thing ever. See picture.

And... to top it all off (pun intended), I forgot the candles to go on the cake. So... we ravaged the junk drawer and came up with last year's models... a 5 and a 7. The kids let the birthday boy decide whether he wanted to be 75 or 57. Even though he's only 43 today. For many reasons, it was the worst of days.

But. It's November 15th. The day we celebrate my husband's birthday. And not just because he's another year older. It's because on days like these... when I'm short tempered, dripping and cold, failing basic cake-baking, narrowly avoiding a trip to the ER, and wondering if I'm developing dementia.... he's right there. Smiling. Calm. Blowing out (last year's) candles. Eating the cake. Having seconds. Acting like it's all right. Making me believe that it is. And that makes today ... the best of days. Happy Birthday Sweetheart.

Ready for Some Football?

2009-11-08T16:02:00.002-05:00

There is a new trend on Sunday mornings at our house. Grayson (6) wakes up and immediately comes into our room and asks.... "Mom... it's Sunday. Do you know what that means?"

To which I always respond.... "Yes... two cups of coffee and church."

"AFTER that." It's FOOTBALL day."

Indeed. My deepest apologies to the Creator. It seems that despite years of Sunday School, it appears the "day of rest" shall be henceforth known as "Football Day." I guess we'll have to agree to disagree on that one. I'll learning to pick my battles. As long as kickoff starts after the sermon.

I can now tell you that the Mannings are a trifecta in terms of football boys... and I know which teams Peyton and Eli "QB" ( Grayson tells me that's slang for quarterback) for. I also know Cooper (the other Manning) played in college but didn't play pro due to a back injury.

Uh huh. We're crossing off toys from the Christmas list and adding an assortment of NFL and college jerseys. We are no longer inviting the kindergarter neighbor girl over to play dressup (Princess Leia to our Luke Skywalker). Today she wore her "Future Cheerleader" T-shirt and cheered for him politely from the sidelines. They actually held hands walking up to the house. They looked so... teenager. Ish.

My heart skipped a beat and my mind flashed ahead a few years. Gulp.

He and Monte and a neighbor have been outside most of the day... in their football attire.... catching, throwing, running ... and throwing out football terminology. No scratching, spitting or patting each other's butts. Yet. I now only have control of my TV during time-outs and halftimes.

I hope you are ready for some football. I'm warming to the idea. Slowly.

Pearls from Mom ...

2009-11-07T08:31:00.002-05:00

We've been talking a lot around here about the value of money. While Santa and the elves may have a money tree growing in the backyard... we haven't seen one pop up yet here in Indiana.

Emma has a lot of ideas about "getting a job" when she gets older. I've been instructing (oops - I mean - "gently guiding") her to do something different. Please kids.... don't get jobs.

Here's a pearl. Get a degree. Get a career. Get a passion.

Your choices of career may not be the same as mine or your dad's. In fact, there is a good reason why they shouldn't. Your passion about your career should reflect who you are. What you are good at. What you care deeply about. What you are excited about doing. What you can do for the next fifty years without developing an ulcer.

I've been so fortunate to blend my career with my family. I didn't consider that when I chose my field. Family was NOT on my radar at the time. But I wish someone had advised me to its benefits at that time. Consider the ability to work part-time. You may not ever chose to. That's OK. But I guarantee you will appreciate having the choice.

You have to love it. Ideally, it should give back to you as much as you give to it. Rare? Maybe. Dig deep. You'll find it. Ask me for examples. If you glow telling stories about your work... you've chosen the right thing. It's all about making connections. The personal ones.

Let me be clear. Money is not the defining factor. If your passion calls you to teach, teach. If it calls you to run a business... do it. If you are a stay at home parent... make it your calling.

I hope you can witness moments that help define you. Grow you. Touch you. Make you want to be a better person. And know when you haven't been all you could have been. It's a pretty big decision. Take the time. We'll help.

Made for Her...

2009-11-06T09:29:00.003-05:00

Emma is just not into clothes. Well, I should say she doesn't beg to go to the mall shopping for them. I guess it's just as well. Time enough for that later on.

I saw this outfit at the mall and it just seemed as though it was meant for her. And... bonus... it was on sale. Same for the sweater coat. The stars aligned. I bought it. It fit. She liked it.

Don't you just love it when an outfit comes together?

Pearls from Mom... the Introduction

2009-11-05T20:14:00.004-05:00

One of the most favorite periods of my life was my Milwaukee time. It was instrumental in shaping who I was to become... personally and professionally. I lived on my own in a big city, ate new and strange foods, made friends completely different from any others before... and had my car stolen.

But it was the people I met while working at Columbia Hospital that have left an indelible impression on my soul. The patients and my colleagues. It's impossible to say who had the most influence. One patient suffered a horrific stroke... and gradually over time... improved to a level no one had predicted. I had the pleasure of knowing him a loooong time. He knows my kids. Well, three of them anyway. He used to say some "funny" things during therapy to regain his language skills. And when he did, his partner would say.... "There's a pearl for you." Many of those "pearls" stay with me to this day ... because of the memories associated with them.

I want to impart some "pearls" of my own to our children. Things I want them to remember about their childhoods... our lives together ... and things I want them to know about me... back before they even existed. Imagine! I had a life before them. Gasp!

So... not all of these "pearls" will be posted here ... but some of them will. Some of you may be in them. If so, it is only my intention to honor you in the place you hold in our family. And to help to give the kids both roots and wings. Sort of like Milwaukee gave me.

Boo To You! 2009

2009-11-01T09:02:00.004-05:00

Halloween is the kids' Holy Grail of Holidays. They love the decorations, trick or treating, and resulting loot just as much as they enjoy the Christmas season. They often lament that the day does not last long enough. Today it did.

The day was looooong ... with a swim meet, a harvest party at church, trick or treating in the arctic cold ... followed by a halloween party. It it were not for the sugary boosts shovelled in their mouths, they may not have made it. But they managed to perservere.

Our neighborhood does Halloween in a big way... we had lots of dressed up kiddos, a visit from the Aboite Firetruck and firemen passing out candy and giving rides in the firetruck, and neighborhood grills providing hot dogs to hungry kids and parents. Good times.

Despite the unexpected layering to their costumes because of the cold, I think they made the best Cleopatra, Cinderella, Ninja, and Elephant that I've seen.

We hope your Halloween was just the right balance of silly, spooky and fun!

Vile

2009-10-26T13:04:00.002-04:00

I am beginning to see how being an aunt or uncle could be a lot of fun. I've not experienced the pleasure of buying the loudest or most obnoxious toy or letting a kiddo have WAY too much candy, cookies, etc. before dinner. But I just might be getting my chance.

Sarah and Kevin (friends extraordinaire) brought these to my kids for our pre-Halloween gathering. Gummy creatures. The size of dinner plates. Octopus tentacles, centipedes, and other squid-like rubbery nastiness that make squeaky sounds when you bite into them. Eeewww. Revolting.

The kids LITERALLY ate them up. I've heard little else but how cool Kevin and Sarah are. Amidst complaints that we would never buy them something like that.

Yep. I smiled at Kevin and Sarah as I handed over the perfectly sized little bundle of Halloween goodness to their little Yoda. But all of you know what I was thinking about.... the Christmas present. Oh yes, revenge will be mine. And it will be sweet.

Halloween Tricks and Treats

2009-10-25T10:10:00.004-04:00

Last night we were fortunate enough to have two Halloween parties. At dinnertime, we invited over the "Littlest Yoda" (as my kids called her) to practice her Trick or Treating skills. It turns out she got to practice her saber skills as well with the local ninja.

I let all the kids put on their costume for a little bit before we left for our adult party. I don't know what was the most fun for them... dressing up themselves or watching their normally "uber-cool" parents transform into nerds.

Yoda's parents got some good shots of the kids too. They brought along some Subway and "treats" for our kids. Watch for a separate post on those.

It's a process....

2009-10-22T13:18:00.002-04:00

this "thank you note" writing business. I believe in it and it's a "must do" in our house. But... they are often embarrassingly tardy. I apologize if you sent a gift to this newly five-year-old are still patiently waiting. They are coming. One slow pen-stroke at a time.

When you get the sticker adorned envelope with your name and hers so painstakingly crafted, please lift your eyes heavenward in thanks that we both made it through the process.

Claire has already stated that next year, she's only inviting ONE person. That way, she'll only have to write ONE thank you note. Hee hee.

When's the Best Day ....

2009-10-19T16:59:00.002-04:00

to get a quote for a new furnace AND hot water heater (to the tune of $4,000)?

Probably NOT on the fourth day of the Team Savage stomach flu, 6 weeks prior to Christmas, on the day that your dog dug up the new landscaping, or six/seven months away from a potential move.

I don't know if there IS a good day for this sort of news... but for us, today WAS NOT it. If only a glass of wine didn't sound so revolting right now. Grumble .... scowl... frown... etc.

Claire's 5th Birthday Party

2009-10-14T16:14:00.003-04:00

Claire's big party day didn't go as planned. We had planned a park party outside with a lot of running, swinging, and fresh air. You know, something appropriate for the "turning five" crowd.

When the weather report predicted ongoing showers all day... we went to plan B. That involved calling party places at the last minute starting with "Can you accommodate a group of preschoolers tomorrow?" I didn't have high hopes. Luckily, one place she has always wanted to go ... didn't hang up on us. They actually bent over backward to accommodate us. Of course, it was at a place with breakables. And paint. Excited as I was to book a "plan B", it made me want to pour a stiff drink.

It went off without a hitch. An hour and a half was just the right amount of time to create a masterpiece, have a cupcake (or two), open presents and read a book. Cooper didn't stay... a momma can only keep so many hands from breaking something. Everyone else had a great time... especially the birthday girl.

Happy 5th Birthday Claire !!!

2009-10-01T23:17:00.003-04:00

She's the quiet one. She's slow to warm, quick to observe, and only invokes the deep belly laughs when called for. She's not one to complain or whine over every injustice and is just starting to recognize and speak her own mind. Change and new situations are not things that make her comfortable ... but comfy jammies, books, her family, and "not soft blue bear" do.

She's five years old today ... and sporting a brand new haircut (because she saw fit to start the hair modification process herself). We think it makes her look at least six ... or six and a half.

So, how did she celebrate today? With a bunch of adoring ladies at the salon oohing and ahhing over the new do, followed by the entire beta fish swim team (and coaches) singing to her after swim practice... finished up with presents, chocolate cake with all the princess-y trimmings and an assortment of bedtime stories.

What makes this five year old girl smile? New nightgowns (no pajamas "with legs") for her anymore, Littlest Pet Shop accessories, and anything Barbie. And... of course.... the whipped icing off of her cake. Not necessarily the cake itself.

Happy Birthday Claire. We love your blossoming personality, willingness to try new things, and developing dry sense of humor. Love you.

Big Boy Haircut

2009-09-30T10:38:00.002-04:00

Apparently, at Claire's soccer game Saturday morning, Monte got equal compliments on our "cute little boy" and "darling little girl." I thought that was really nice ... until he told me everyone was talking about Cooper. Wearing blue. All over.

OK - as much as I love the curls, it was time to cut the hair. I didn't even bother to take the camera. I predicted he would be a fart in a skillet... and he was. I knew what his reaction would be. I just wasn't prepared for mine. Tears. Quite a few. It' s a really good thing I went to our family hair place. All the girls know me (and all the kids) and they treated us like family. Of course, they've known Cooper as long as I have. Kleenex, Diet Coke, knowing glances, and a few tears later, it was all done. He looks like a boy. And about three years old.

I still can't get him to slow down long enough to get a good shot of the curl-less wonder. This is the best I can do. Wish I could slow time down just a little bit.

Authenticity....

2009-09-24T15:42:00.004-04:00

I read a few blogs. Not as many as I'd like to... but a few just really give me perspective and make me chuckle. I've noticed a theme in them lately. They are authentic. Not too dreary... not too syrupy. Just right. There is real life in them. Not just the parts they want everyone to see.

I've also realized that's how I want my kids to remember their lives when they read this years down the road. So, in the spirit of full disclosure, this is what my Tuesday morning sounded like.

(I'm putting Claire's hair in a bun for ballet lessons... already at my friend's house... already late for work...)

I'm noticing Claire now has some sort of "bang" thing going on with her hair. Certainly not something there the day before. Certainly NOT anything I had paid for...

Me: "Claire... who cut your hair?"

Claire: (avoiding eye contact) "I don't know."

Me: (recalling my years of psychology) "OK... where is the hair that someone mysteriously cut?"

Claire: (looking relieved) "Oh... it's under the bed... in the basement."

Me: (torn between cracking up and choking her) "Do you know where the scissors are that cut the hair that someone put under the bed?"

Claire: (proud of herself for knowing yet another answer) "Yep... it's under the pillow."

Sigh. It took five years to grow out that curly hair to make it long enough to wear in a bun. As my friends have pointed out, it could have been alot worse. It's not too bad really. And... because she's going to be wearing a headband until she's 10, you probably won't even notice it.

Prayers for Kate

2009-09-16T18:05:00.002-04:00

There is a young family with a daughter facing a malignant brain tumor. Kate's parents are devout Christians (he's a pastor) and they blog from the heart about the journey they are facing. Her blog is authentic, heart-wrenching and inspiring. Today they have an MRI to determine if their daughter's tumor is growing, shrinking, or something in between. What they must be going through. Please take a moment to include this family in your prayers.... caringbridge.org/visit/mcraekate

Beach Babes (and babies).... Part Two

2009-09-13T22:44:00.002-04:00

It's been a week since we got back home from our trip to the beach ... and I just found SAND (again) when doing laundry. Does sand reproduce?

I don't think I can explain how cathartic the water is for all of us. I have always loved the water... river, lake, pool, or ocean ... it's calming effects, rhythmic sounds, smells. It was just incredible to see how the kids reacted to it. We could have stayed several more hours and they wouldn't have tired of it. It was hypnotic.

Did I mention the sand? Cooper tasted one bite and decided that it was better between the toes than in the mouth. "The bigs" chased, dug, ran, buried, rolled, climbed and tumbled down sand hills until I wondered how they'd ever have the strength to stand up again.

It was a totally impromptu trip... but one DEFINITELY orchestrated by God. More of that later. I just love that they are still talking about that day. No TV, friends, playdates, or video games. Just water, wind.... and SAND.

Beach Babes (and babies).... Part One

2009-09-11T11:36:00.002-04:00

As luck would have it, Weko Beach was only about 10 miles from Lemon Creek Winery/Orchard. We visited once before, on an impromptu get-away right before the start of school. We love the Lake Michigan beaches this time of year... still warm enough for sand and water exploration... but not throngs of people. That's important when you are trying to supervise four very independent little people.

Keep in mind, we had NO plans to visit a beach when we took off in the morning .. so we had no suits, no toys, no towels. I don't think they minded. The waves were big, the sand was plenty, and the soft pretzels came with cheese (and a fantastic view).

Lemon Creek Winery/Orchard

2009-09-09T12:27:00.005-04:00

Anyone who knows us is well aware of our affection for all things wine-related in Michigan. Lemon Creek Winery has expanded in recent years to include u-pick fruits of all varieties. They also have a tasting room, some chilled bottles and an asundry of cheeses and crackers. Alas, we were not able to convince the children to "sit quietly while we went to the tasting room." Another day perhaps. In about 10 years.

We were able to ride the hayride to the fields and pick peaches, nectarines, plums, apples, and raspberries to our heart's content. Or, in our case, when the kids became convinced they were too "smokin' hot" to continue.

Everyone had a great time but Cooper was truly in his element... all the sticks, farm dogs, and fruit he could eat. I'm quite sure we would have never let Emma just walk around eating fruit off the ground, but somehow... we just let him be. And he couldn't have been happier.

Spontaneous? Who Us?

2009-09-08T09:00:00.000-04:00

I don't know if spontaneous would be the first adjective to roll off my lips when describing our family. I'ts not that we don't love the IDEA of spontaneity, it just isn't always practical.

So imagine our surprise when we woke up Sunday morning with no plans. We were loving it... made a big breakfast, finished a pot of coffee, laying around in our jammies.... when it hit us. A memory... followed by an idea.

Remember last year when we drove to Michigan to that orchard to pick peaches? How far was that? Where was it? Hmmm...

I'll post more about how much fun we had, but for now, here are some orchard pictures that I think are just "delicious."

Prayers for Papa Update....

2009-09-07T13:15:00.002-04:00

Thank you to everyone (near and far) who have called, emailed, and prayed. Proof positive that I know some of the best prayer warriors out there!

Our prayers were answered and he has come through surgery and recovery better than expected. As of last night, he is off the ventilator, moved to a regular room, and has been up and walking with PT. Those of us who have worked in ICU know what a miracle that is.

We'll be able to visit with him soon at home. I'm sure he'll appreciate a (short) visit by the grandkids to help pass the time. Thanks again friends. God Bless!