Valentine's Weekend

We're having a wonderfully busy Valentine's weekend. Friday night I got to spend some time with Hannah Claire (oh, and her parents). Saturday morning came very early for Emma and Grayson as both were swimming at the same meet - but for different teams. I didn't go as Cooper and Claire would be less than appreciative of the long day and hard bleacher seats. But Monte and Mom were really proud of how both kids did. Preliminary results indicated Emma now has legal times in breaststroke and possible butterfly! That would be a big deal as she's been working really hard not to be "DQ'd" (disqualified). She also swam a 100 yard freestyle (that's four lengths of a pool). I don't think I could do that anymore. Grayson was proud of his 25 yard freestyle and backstrokes too. I think the best part of the meet for him was playing his Nintendo DS with the other little boys.

Last night Monte and I went to see Collin Raye in concert. It was my fourth time seeing him and while he has less hair and more belly than he did the last time, I am still blown away every time he opens his mouth. The man can SING! The theatre was in the round and very intimate. It was a great way to spend a Valentine's evening.

Cooper's Big Week

It's been an exciting week for the little guy. In addition to sprouting his first tooth (we were hoping that was the reason he was drooling so much), he just started rolling over!

Disclaimer: He's only rolling from tummy to back. While none of our children have set records in the gross motor department, I suspected Cooper would take even a bit longer to roll over. He's chubby. He's laid back. Ok - very laid back. And ... well .... dare I admit to this ... he sleeps on his tummy. So, when you lay him down for some "tummy time," he immediately closes his eyes and starts his sleepy song. Not much motivation to roll over.

The kids have been tutoring him for a few weeks now. It's hilarious. They all get as close as they can to him and roll around saying "Do this Cooper. Do this." I love to watch his face during all this and wonder what he must be thinking ... "And they are worried about me???"

Father Daughter Dance 2009

Last night was the Father Daughter Dance put on by the Girl Scouts. It was Emma's and Monte's second year in attendance and Emma even more excited than last year ... because she knew what to expect I think. Then again, it may have been the promise of cheese fries at Steak and Shake after the dance....

The hunt for the dress was not nearly as traumatic as last year. She loved her Christmas dress so she donned a sweater and off she went. For a chuckle, check the blog archives for last year's post. Not only does Emma have her baby teeth but I was still parenting by bribing. Amateurs!!!

There's nothing quite like watching a Daddy helping his little girl put on her wrist corsage. It puts a lump in the throat and some tears in the eyes.

As I took the pictures this year on the steps (as I did last year), I got just a small glimpse of what it will be like for homecomings, proms, etc. Wow. I hope her date has as much patience as her daddy. And that he likes cheese fries and strawberry milkshakes too.

Overthinking Things

The Lone Ranger and Tonto went camping in the desert. After they got their tent all set up, both men fell sound asleep. Some hours later, Tonto wakes the Lone Ranger and says, "Kemosabe, look towards sky; what you see?"

The Lone Ranger replies, "I see millions of stars."

"What that tell you?" asked Tonto. The Lone Ranger ponders for a minute then says, "Astronomically speaking, it tells me there are millions of galaxies. Time wise, it appears to be approximately a quarter past three in the morning. Theologically, the Lord is all powerful , and we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically, it seems we will have a beautiful day tomorrow."
"What does it tell you, Tonto?"

"You dumber than buffalo. Someone stole tent."

I've been the Lone Ranger a bit these past few weeks. Overthinking, overanalyzing, overworrying. This is not unusual for me - but something I'm working hard on minimizing. The answer usually is just that simple. And if you spend too much time thinking about something, someone just might steal your tent.

I'm Entirely Too Old for This ...

but I couldn't care less. I am totally and completely sucked into this series. I never saw it coming - even with my utter addiction to Harry Potter. I should have known. It all started the same way.

All my cute little teenage babysitters have been raving about these books forever. They all gushed about the movie when it came out and peppered their conversations with "Edward and Bella" this and "vampire" that. I tried to give it the benefit of the doubt, but it all sounded juvenile to me. When my grownup friends (I use that term loosely) started to get hooked, I thought it may be worth another look.

I read the first one in less than 24 hours. I practically accosted the babysitter when she brought the second one into my house. She let me borrow it. Like she had a choice.

I devoured that 600 page book like it was a triple fudge brownie. No remorse.

I ignored laundry, work, and my kids until I knew ... really knew... that Edward had returned and Bella was safe. Oh brother. It sounds even more pathetic when I type it.

Anyway ... I don't have the third one yet. I've been trying to be adult about it .. but I'm starting to get irritable and short-tempered. Not unlike some of the stars of Celebrity Rehab.

I'm not proud. Just honest.

Channeling My Inner Toddler

There are things I've done in the past week and I just can't explain the rationale behind them.

Those of you with toddlers - you can relate to this one. You know how you tell a child NOT to do something (run with a pencil for example) ... then provide them with the perfectly legitimate reason (it could hurt you)? What do they do then? Do it! Just to see what happens.

I did that this week. Lots of mommy blogs were abuzz with peanut butter recalls. There were people all over with their undies in a bundle - throwing out every food product with peanuts in it. Egads. I was NOT going to do it. I was NOT going to hit refresh every two minutes to see what new perils lay in my pantry.

What did I do? I opened and ate the peanut butter paste out of three packages of recalled crackers. Smart? Responsible? Probably not. But I had to see what happened. I was channeling my inner toddler.

Then ... there are things that have a good reason behind them ... but I shudder at the thought of doing them again. Why do them in the first place? Because someone challenged me.

I won't go into detail here ... but the challenges involved a spinning class (not so bad) and a ...
(here goes my PG rating again) ... waxing party (definitely worse than the spinning class).

Again ... I'm up for a challenge. But seriously ... I can't provide a better reason than... "She told me too." Which tells me I'm not yet equipped to parent children older than mine. Because I'm at a point in my life when I can relate to ...."But all the other kids are doing it."

There are no pictures to accompany this post. You should be glad of that. Noone wants to see the after-effects of spin class .... or the waxing party.

Brotherly Love

Or double trouble ...whichever moniker you like.

Like his big brother, Cooper seems to enjoy anything involving loud, rough play. Grayson always asks if he can "wrestle with him gently."

So far, no injuries. But look out when Cooper gets teeth!

Based on their interactions with Cooper, I'm predicting Grayson will have the most children. I'm also praying they will all be with the same woman ... and that the woman is his wife!!!

Dear Emma, Grayson, Claire and Cooper,

There are so many parental "pearls of wisdom" I'd love to impart to you. The time is going so quickly though ... and it's filled with things like "Time for bed" and "Turn off the lights" and my personal favorite ... "Flush the toilet!!!"

These things are important. If mastered, they will make you an easier person to live with.

But they are not the most important. This is. Listen up guys.

Make friends. Good ones. When you find them ... hold on tight. They will be your lifelines.

Surround yourself with good people that will tell you the truth. Even when it is hard to hear.

These will be the people you call when you get the best and most tragic news of your lives.
These friends will vacation with you, stand up at your weddings, be there for the birth of your children, and the funerals of your parents. They will take you shopping, out to movies and cocktails, and drag you to spin class. They will cheer for you when things are great and cry with you when they are not. They will be the immovable force in your lives.

These friendships won't always be easy. There will be hurt feelings, tiffs, arguments, and senses of abandonment. You may loose sight of them for a while. Hold tighter. Breathe deeper. It will pass. They will come back. And part of you will come with them.

Because these kinds of relationships are God given. And God driven.

I promise to help you nurture these relationships because I know how important they are to me. I want that for you. You and I may not always see things the same way. I expect that. But I need to know that you will have the sort of people watching out for you that I have watching out for me. You'll know when you find them. And so will I.

Friends are the family you can choose for yourself. Choose wisely. I have.

Praises ...

I'm taking a page from my friend Marci here. Undoubtedly, I won't do it justice like she does, but it's important I give it a shot. Praises to God for all the blessings He has put in our laps this week - including...

renewed friendships (after nearly 12 years), a historic presidential inauguration, the birth of a healthy baby boy to friends Myah and Josh, the successful surgery to excise a tumor from a three year old girl, a first birthday party for Hannah, friends bringing home a son from China, and a particularly relevant church service this morning that spoke directly to my heart through song and word.

Through these events and more, it is evident God is in control. Our lives are full of blessings.

Yeah for Hannah(s) !!!

We are blessed to have two Hannahs in our lives and we got good news from both of them recently. Hannah C and her parents got good news in Indianapolis this week. I was suspecting they would but I breathed a sigh of happiness and relief when I heard the good news!

The older (but no less gorgeous) Hannah and her mom came to visit over the weekend en route to a college visit in Ohio. Hannah's mom is my first cousin and I do wish we lived closer. I adore that entire family. We had a great visit and the kids were soooo happy they spent two nights with us. We all missed seeing Jim, Olivia and Daniel though.... next time?

Hannah is contemplating college choices and weighing very important factors - cost, proximity to home (or adoring relatives), big town, small town, etc. We are so very proud of her and are confident that she will make the right choices for herself.

All that collegiate talk has made me very nostalgic ... have I really been out of grad school 13 years???? I am a fossil.

Random Thoughts on Inauguration Day

I admit it. I got sucked into watching parts of the Presidential Inauguration. I figured it would be the same old, hum drum stuff. So I settled in and prepared to watch some of the DVR'd material piling up.

When people started dropping like flies during the luncheon, I was hooked.

Loved Aretha's hat. Michelle's yellow dress? Not so much.

It was all very exciting. The celebrities, the gifts, the music, the speeches, the fanfare ... and the "Beast." That's the presidential car ... in case you aren't up on things like that.

However, in a recession/depression climate, do we REALLY need to spend 160 MILLION dollars on a big shindig? Wouldn't he still be president Obama if YoYo Ma wasn't the cellist?

All politics aside, Barack Obama is our nation's president now and our prayers should include him and his entire adminstration. I am glad Teddy Kennedy appears to be out of the woods.
I am proud of our nation's ever-enlightening views on race. I hope the Obama adminstration works for peace and accountability. Both are sorely needed.

I'd like nothing more than to admit I was wrong.

Five Months Old!

Time is flying by. When someone asked me this week how old Cooper was, I actually had to say "five months." Egads. Big changes around this time start turning infants into babies.

He has mastered the art of rice cereal. It took some practice. He was not a fan last week when Claire was sooooo anxious to feed him. He's got the hang of it now.

He's starting to sit up by himself. Briefly and with a very wide base of support. But it's coming.

Predictable schedule. Naps at 10:00 and 2:00 with bedtime at 8:00.

Big smiles and a much more engaging personality. Melts a mama's heart.

Next stop ... six months. Or rolling over. Whichever comes first.

I Call Dibs on the Brain Tumor!

As you know, I am a HUGE Grey's Anatomy fan. I am an even bigger Jeffrey Dean Morgan fan. When the GA writers killed him off a few seasons ago, it was akin to a real-life catastrophe. There was wailing, gnashing of teeth, and a migraine headache the next morning from crying. Don't pretend I was the only one. I was in a room FULL of wailers.

So, while some of you Grey's fans are not getting the "ghostmance" between Denny and Izzy.... I have it all figured out. Denny is not a ghost. He's a brain tumor.

To that end, when Izzie is diagnosed (probably during sweeps week), she'll have to decide whether to have the tumor removed (and loose Denny) or live out the remainder of her life in Denny-deliciousness. Hmmm .... that's a no-brainer.

No pun intended.

Yoga Update

This is my first really serious yoga class. I've been to class three times now (including tonight). Turns out ... I can breathe... OR .... I can move.

Just not at the same time.

Sigh.

The Post Adoption Blues? Don't Despair ...

Adoption is near and dear to our hearts. Some people get it. Some people don't. Fine by us either way. But our family knows our life circle has been forever broadened by it.

I'm aware quite a few of my friends have been "sucked into" our friends' adoption to Taiwan - reading the blog, meeting Hannah, etc. Others have called or emailed to ask how she's doing ... and let me know about these post-adoption blues. Don't despair friends... I have a cure.

Rebecca and Andy are currently in China anxiously awaiting tomorrow ... when they will meet Owen. He's almost three ... and will come home to four siblings ... one of whom is almost the same age!

Rebecca has an "artsy" eye and it's always fun to read her blog. The pictures of China are amazing as well. We met Rebecca and Andy the same time as Hannah's parents. Hard to believe that tomorrow ... all of us will have the children God intended us to have when we met.

Update on the Whole Exercise Thing

I intentionally did NOT make a formal New Year's resolution about diet/exercise. It thwarts me every time (A personal aside - isn't "thwart" a great word? It doesn't get used enough).

But ... setting aside some "me" time that does NOT involve chocolate, Tabor Hill wine, and the remote control (love me some Grey's Anatomy) has been on my mind and my priority list.

So I dusted off my YMCA card and have set up quite a little schedule for myself. The goal is to walk in the door 4 times per week. Anything else is gravy.

I talked a friend of mine into taking Yogalates with me. How I wish it were gentle, relaxing yoga followed by a steaming, full-fat vanilla latte. Not so.

It's a gut-busting combo class devised and led by a sadist in a cute black leotard. Half yoga...half pilates. I still don't really know a "downward dog" from a "chair" but I'm working on it.

Still hate running. Still make myself do it. It might be getting a little bit easier. At least, that's what I'm telling myself so I keep going.

Bad Day

Do me a favor. Click here to listen to the music before you read this post. It helps set the mood for my pity party. Do it for me. Daniel Powter had nothing on me yesterday.

Yesterday was A. BAD. DAY.

Long story ... but it involved a state survey at one of my places of employment, a crying baby, a vomiting dog, and news of a friend admitted for surgery.

Even an improved downward dog pose at yoga didn't lighten the mood. I'm still a little shaken.

Today ... a little more clarity. Professionally, I need to find a better fit for my time and my passion. Simplify again. I hear you God.

Prayers to Marci and her family.

A huge thank you to my friend who called with great news - just when I needed it. An even bigger thank you to my babysitter - who takes it all in stride - even when I don't.

My unending gratitute for the makers of Diet Coke and the bulb syringe for babies. Without both of you, I may have gone over the edge yesterday.

Word for 2009

It seems I am perennially behind. Is that a word? I'd check the spell check but Cooper should be up any minute and I haven't even made the bed yet today. Geesh.

When your seven year old brings home a list of New Year's Resolutions and asks what yours are ... and you don't have any yet ... it's time to get on the ball.

I read a blog today that used a word of the year to base her resolutions around and I really liked the idea. So here it goes. My word for the year is SIMPLIFY.

I resolve to simplify the organized chaos that is the life of this family of six. Admittedly, the prayer for more hours in a day has not yet been answered. Until it is, the only way to live more fully in the moment is to simplify what goes on in those 1440 minutes.

Simplify the schedule. Mine and theirs. Choose what is most important and make that a priority. Sleep, exercise, relationships. Faith. And maybe a few Diet Cokes thrown in for sanity.

Yesterday was an excellent example of how I'd love to be more present. I had plans to go to the Y to exercise. Things pretty much had to go exactly the way I needed them to go. Kids ready - Cooper napped - my clothes on. Ready. Called the Y to make an appt for Cooper. No baby appts until way after I had planned. Really? I was feeling pretty put out and a little stressed. I had prepared for this all day. Ack!!!

Not three minutes later, the phone ran. My friend Sarah was bringing Hannah over. Did we have time to play? Um..... YES!!! Check out the great pics of Hannah and Cooper here.

But if my original plan had worked out, we would have been gone when she called. We had a great time. Living in the moment. Simple. Relationships. Faith that God knows the best for us (and our schedule) even when we don't.

Perspective

All day I've been celebrating that the kids are back in school. Well, three of them anyway.

Why celebrate? The house is cleaner, quieter, and alot less hectic. Selfish ... shallow... honest.

Click on this short video to get a glimpse of a family who celebrates for an entirely different reason. Maybe, like me, you'll get some much needed perspective to start off this new year.

http://www.oprah.com/media/20081001_tows_99balloons

Chick Magnet

I can't recall right now where Cooper got this adorable onesie (in case you can't read it, it says "chick magnet." I just know it was a gift - and from a friend. A pretty GOOD friend I expect - as most people don't send gifts anymore for the fourth baby. That just makes me more embarrassed that I don't remember. Forgive me. Just know that I LOVE IT. It makes me laugh every time he wears it. Especially when you pair the onesie with the thighs. Too much.

I also adore the hat Jennifer gave me. Maybe I should pair it with the onesie. Add the thighs and make it a triple threat... and give the folks at "What Not to Wear" an aneurysm.

Hannah's Homecoming

Kevin, Sarah, and Hannah touched down here in Hoosierville yesterday. The kids and I were pretty excited to see little Hannah in person so we loaded up Jennifer's (wife to Troy - see earlier post) minivan and headed to Fort Wayne International Airport. I don't see anything international about it ... but that's what it's called.

It took a bit of explaining to all of the kids about what all was happening ... but they understood that they were going to be a small piece of a very special day. How often do you get to be part of something like that? We got a chance to talk with Hannah's grandma(s) before the plane arrived. The looks on their faces ... that's about as good as it gets.

Thanks to Sarah and Kevin for letting all of us at the airport be among the first to welcome Hannah home.

Cooper's Ears' New Year's Eve plans

Happy New Year to everyone! Ours went a little differently than expected ... but it suited us just fine. We aren't big New Year's Eve people ... maybe because we've had little ones for almost 8 years now. Anyway, we had tentative plans to attend two little get togethers - with our own "big three" away at Nana's, we figured we could brave it with just Cooper.

His ears had other plans. Their idea of a party included getting infected, causing some pain, irritability and sleeplessness. Their idea of a clincher? Presenting all this at 3:30 pm on New Year's Eve. You know, long after the pediatrician's office closes.

No fever so I knew it wasn't a major deal - and it isn't like I haven't done this before - but I wanted him to be more comfortable and I didn't want it to escalate for two more days before the peds office opens again .. so off to Redi-Med we went.

After a less than stellar checkup by a questionable staff, we went home armed with Amoxicillin. That and some Tylenol did the trick and Cooper slept from 7:30 pm to 5:30 am. I just didn't have the heart to get him out of bed. Sorry guys. Maybe some other time.

Kudos to Monte though for preparing a very yummy dinner of filet, baked potato, and bread with olive oil/parmesan cheese.

I think he was the only one who technically saw the New Year ring in. Cooper and I had enough of the I Love Lucy marathon and turned in prior to midnight.

Kids are coming home today and while they aren't happy about it, it's more than time. Time to get back into the routine.

Cooper's First Photo Shoot

It dawned on me today that I haven't had Cooper's pictures taken yet - well, except the ones from the hospital. Since the older ones are still "on vacation" at Nana and Papa's house, I thought I might take advantage and go get the 4 1/2 month ones done. You know ... the ones you take when you've forgotten the 3 month ones.

I think it was a pretty successful trip. The immediate gratification side of me is also really happy to have them in 15 minutes. Now if I could just get them framed and hung.....

Forever a Family Day!!!

Well, the moment we've been waiting for has arrived. Kevin, Sarah, and Hannah are forever a family. You've gotta see her. Right now. Go get a tissue and a diet coke and set aside a little bit of time to read and reread. Click here.

Isn't that just what you needed today?

Prayers for a continued wonderful "getting to know you" time in Taiwan. Then hurry home guys so we can love on her too!

Ode to Troy Gardner - This One's for You!

To find a great guy, you must know where to look

I hear that this one has a page on Facebook.

Now ladies, I'm sorry to report that he's taken

My friend is the one to whom he brings home his bacon.

But Troy ... so handsome, so funny, so smart

They're lucky to have him - retail genius - Walmart.

Customer service driven - both at home and at work

Having a this guy as a friend is a joy and a perk.

Our TV wasn't working - is just wasn't right

He took care of our problem - the very same night!

Compared to some guys, he's a prince among men

He's constantly in contact with lucky wife Jen.

This summer while we ladies sat by the pool

He sometimes stopped by to "help us look cool."

He offered - no kidding, no joshing, no jokes

to run to McDonald's for large Diet Cokes.

He knows that we love them, Jen, Martha and I -

so he brought us each one - that considerate guy!

His kids? They both love him - to them he's no zero

With the Wii and home theater - he's Blake's guitar hero.

I could go on and on.. and post 'till I'm blue

Troy Gardner - we love ya - it's all ABOUT YOU!

Merry Christmas 2008

The Christmas season can get crazy with all the preparations, shopping, and spending. This year was no exception. With a new baby and all that goes with that, things were a little more harried this year. However, as it always does ... the Christmas eve church service put my heart and mind in the right place and reminded me again of the reason for the season.

I am thankful for all our blessings ... faith, family, and friends. How perfect to be surrounded by all three this holiday season. Happy Birthday Jesus!

2nd Annual Gingerbread Party

Our neighbors are near and dear to our hearts for many reasons. One family is particularly so. The mom is one I aspire to be like and the kids, oops - teenagers, are really great. They host an annual gingerbread house decorating party and have been gracious enough to host my kids for the second year in a row. How great is that?

Emma suggested we put the houses around one of the trees and make it a "gingerbread subdivision." She's at work right now assembling roads and cars. I did draw the line at fake snow. The house is in shambles enough without vacuuming snow off the floor.

I wish I could have seen the big girls' houses this year. They astound me with their architectural designs. When I get pictures I'll post them.

I'm glad they do this each year. Other than the kids really looking forward to it, having the houses around really gets me in the Christmas spirit.

Don't Worry Mom and Dad...I'm In Good Hands...

Kevin and Sarah left today for Taiwan to go get Hannah Claire. Well, at least I think they did. With the recent ice storm and all the bad weather we've had ... I'm hoping they got off the ground and am praying for safe travels there and back.

We're so honored they've entrusted us with their "first child" Sedona to watch while they are gone. They looked just a little bit nervous when they left last night so I'm letting Sedona tell them how she's done her first 24 hours.

Dear Mom and Dad,

Thank goodness things have calmed down here quite a bit. I guess it isn't EVERY DAY that this family hosts a sleepover, coordinates a girls' night out in the midst of a massive power outage, and gets a canine houseguest. But that's what happened.

So far I can't complain. I'm getting A LOT of attention. There sure are a lot of little people here. Five tonight - but they say one is going home tomorrow. Whew!

I'm getting used to the kids. They all sure smell differently and I've had to check it out repeatedly to make sure I know which kid I'm dealing with. One of them has a particularly smelly bottom - though not all the time. It's the same one that spends a lot of time on the floor. He's about my size.

There are two girls - they take turns holding me on the couch. Their mom keeps cramping my style by making them get up and do chores and things. No matter - I've been keeping their spots warm until they come back.

Wrigley and I have adjacent beds and I must have been tired because someone said I snored in the night ... but I don't know anything about that.

Better go - treats to eat, things to sniff, and laps to lay on. Wish you were here! Have a good time in Taiwan!

Love,

Sedona

Four Months Old!!!

In all the hustle and bustle of this holiday season, I haven't been taking enough pictures of Cooper and he's growing up soooo fast. He's fairly successful at getting objects to his mouth, is fascinated by his hands, and loves to stand up.

The poinsetta plants are just about his favorite things to look at right now. If he's in the living, he'll crane his neck to look at them. A smile lights up his face then his eyes glaze over as he stares and stares. It's a bit like baby porn.

But ... if it gives me a few extra minutes to load the dishwasher, then I'm a happy mama.

Dear Santa

I know that by now you have received all the letters from the kids. Please take exception to Emma's handwriting and Grayson and Claire's spelling and syntactical errors. The little two are new at this.

For the most part, the kids have all been good this year. Cooper is doing exceptionally well with sleeping through the night so he gets extra credit. Please continue your tradition of writing them a letter back and leaving it with their presents. Feel free to put in a paragraph about room for improvement. I would be happy to provide you with suggestions - just email me. I don't do texting.

As for me, it's difficult to come up with anything I would like - as I already have everything I could ever need with this incredible family I have right here in this house. However, as a glutinous citizen of the USA and natural born capitalist, there ARE a few things I could put down on my list.

1. Self-flushing toilet
2. Toilet paper roll dispenser that only gives as much tp as needed for 4, 5 and 7 year old bottoms (sold as an accessory to #1)
3. Thighs like Beyonce
4. An all night hair salon (it can't be just me that requires a three hour appt - carving that amount of time during the day just isn't easily done)
5. About five more hours built into every day (during which time the kids are asleep, my husband is awake, and all my favorite stores are open)

Oh - one more thing. Thank you for giving Sarah and Kevin their most amazing Christmas gift ever.

Visit With Santa

Thanks to GE, the kids were able to attend a visit with Santa yesterday, complete with a story reading from an elf, cookies, and gifts. It was a nice time and the kids really enjoyed their stuffed bears (wearing a GE sweater) and a great hardback book of classic Christmas stories.

Each one of the kids got a minute with Santa to tell him what they wanted most this year. They didn't tell me what they asked for (this is Emma's scientific method of testing whether Santa is real or not) but it got me thinking what I would ask for if I were brazen enough to climb up on Santa's lap. Maybe tomorrow I'll write him a letter.

Breakfast in Bethlehem

This weekend we had a busy Saturday. For the first year since we've been here, we actually attended Breakfast in Bethlehem at our church (we've bought tickets every year and had something come up and couldn't go). Actually, it was just Cooper, the girls and I. Monte took Grayson to his first ever swim meet. More on that later.

It was a really cute event. They had a pancake and sausage breakfast, live calves, a tasting table containing regional foods for the times (dates, figs, pomegranates, etc), a play, and a craft. Between the cows and the craft, my girls were over the moon. My friend Myah even looked the part of a very pregnant Mary as she and hubby Josh are due for their third baby in January.

Fun Updates

It's been just a little bit crazy around here maintaing the regular schedule with all the holiday stuff thrown in. It's really been just about all I can do to keep my head above water. I haven't been as consistent as I'd like with jounaling, blogging, OR exercising but I'm trying to just keep breathing deeply and knowing it's ALL GOOD.

Some fun updates ...

Cooper went to the doctor for his "almost four months" checkup. He weighs 18 and 1/2 pounds and is 26 inches long. He is 80 percentile for height, 90 percentile for head circumference, and is off the chart for weight. He also grew two inches since his last checkup. Good stuff.

He also got two shots. He was supposed to get many more, but this mama just doesn't feel like we need to give all these shots at the same time. He'll get them all - I'm not against vaccinations - just spread out a little more. We have an understanding at our ped's office. They do what I ask and I exhaust them. It works out well for both of us.

Also - we are officially dog-sitting for our friends Sarah and Kevin when they go to Taiwan in two weeks or so. Sedona and Wrigley had a little "meet and greet" last night. Sarah's blog explains it all so well, I'll just let you check it out over there if you are interested. The kids are over the moon about it. It was THE topic of discussion at the breakfast table this morning.

Oh, and I've gotten three Christmas cards so far. Not even close to doing ours yet so don't be looking for it this week ... or maybe next. Anyone for Happy New Year's cards?

Getting Out of My Comfort Zone

My comfort zone is pretty cool. I like it here. A lot. I tend to want to stay here.

But ... that doesn't promote much growth now does it? So .. I'm tackling things that challenge me.

Like exercising. Comfort zone=walking. Briskly and with incline (in my defense). But still...walking. But I'm doing it. I'm up to about half and half. If I put in three miles on the treadmill, that means I have to run a mile and a half. Yep. I can do it too. I just still hate it.

Technology is the other area that is clearly out of the "zone." I made some progress in that area last night making some Christmas presents I would not have attempted a year ago. It made me really want to explore photography. Not as a profession or anything ... but just some photo editing that would enhance the pictures I do take.

My friend Rebecca has taken on this same challenge lately with fabulous results. Check out the yummy picture she took of Cooper at Sarah's baby shower. Of course, if you know Rebecca at all, you know she seems to conquer EVERYTHING she tries ... and makes it look effortless. And she's skinny too. So NOT FAIR. =)

So, I'm going to keep plugging along. If nothing else, my New Year's Resolutions are pretty much all lined up.

Join Us in "Not Going to Dinner"

Tonight is our dinner club. We are not going. Not because we don't enjoy it or our friends. We do. A lot.

But we have a sort of tradition in our house that is really quite exciting. It's called "We're Not Going to Dinner." We try to do it once a month. We stay in, make some leftovers, save the money, and pick a worthy cause to give the money to. The monetary value varies and we have been known to donate food or clothing instead. But you get the idea.

We get a family night, the kids learn about giving, and a worthy cause gets something they need. It's a win-win.

I try to let the kids pick the cause. I do narrow the field to a few selections. It's amazing to me how vested they become in the process that way.

Anyway, this month the kids picked our friends. They are going to China to get their son Owen. Read all about them here. I'm so excited for them and so honored to be able to be a very small part of their journey. I must say ... tonight I am glad we are "not going to dinner."

Maybe this is something your family could do too. Imagine all the causes in your communities that could use your help. It's a win-win. Just a thought. Just to make it more fun, if you do it, let me know. We could really start something here.

Runner's High

I hate running. Not "dislike, don't care for, or prefer something else" - just outright loathing.

You know that "runner's high" people talk about? I don't understand it. The only high I get is when I'm done. Seriously. My endorphins don't get it either.

It's not as if I haven't tried it. Many times. High school ... college ... grad school ... after each and every baby. Still the same disdain. Rather like olives.

But - this time is different. I'm going with a different approach. I'm not going to pretend to like it. I'm just going to do it.

I ran one mile yesterday. All at the same time. I still hate it. But I'm going to do it again tomorrow. I'll keep you posted.

Step Away From ...

I've watched enough SuperNanny to know the right way to handle an anxious 4 year old who DESPERATELY wants to rock, sway, and bounce her little brother in the newest baby contraption.

Knowing does not mean doing.

I really needed a few minutes to finish the dishes and thought Cooper might be safe in his Johnny Jump Up while Claire finished her lunch. No such luck.

After the hundredth reminder not to twist him up and let him go ("just like that one ride at Disney - remember mommy?"), I must have given her the exasperated look. That's when she calmly stopped, took two steps back and said ... "I know mommy ... step AWAY from the baby."

I just had to laugh. She's been hearing that term from us a lot lately. I've mostly used the term when speaking out loud to myself during post-Halloween bag looting. You know ... "Step away from the Reese's", etc.

Apparently, some things are sinking in. Just not when it comes to half rocketing your baby brother into outer space.

Happiness is ...

answering the phone and hearing your friend's voice after she's gotten some of the best news of her life. There's nothing like it. Congratulations to Sarah and Kevin on the final court ruling from Taiwan - declaring them parents of Hannah Claire. Check out the little Miss here.

Happy Birthday Monte!!!

You wouldn't know it ... but this handsome devil is 42! To celebrate we made several plans. First, we decided to go to dinner. You know - alone - as a couple. The kids nixed that idea as they wanted to be part of Daddy's day too. You can't blame them for that.

Then we decided to go bowling. But by the time we finished dinner and the German Chocolate cake, it was pretty late. We also discovered most of the local alleys have leagues on Saturday nights anyway.

We finally decided on letting the kids watch a movie Because of Winn Dixie (highly recommend it for family movie night) and the three oldest ones camping out on the blow up bed in the living room.

It may not have been a glamorous night out ... but we do have a sitter coming today for a little grownup time in the big city.

A Belated Thank You

to Marci and Nicole for keeping Cooper for me when I attended a conference in Illinois. It was incredibly good to spend another "Thursday night" with my old cronies - indulging in snacks, beverages, women talk and Grey's Anatomy/ER.

Also, click here to see Marci's slideshow of Cooper. I do have bragging rights!

Just to Reassure You ...

that according to a registered nurse in good standing at my doctor's office - a nasal bulb syringe (aka "infant torture device") will "most likely not" cause any "permanent damage" when inserted into an infant's nose by a four year old budding pediatrician when the parent in charge is momentarily distracted by speaking to said nurse about scheduling flu mist appointments for the siblings.

I suppose it is more reassuring when there is giggling by said nurse. But I wouldn't know. It is all purely hypothetical.

Go Ahead. I Can Take It.

Take a second look at the picture. Cause I know that the first one was a cursory - just being polite because she's probably just posting a picture of the cute baby in his Halloween costume - look. I understand. I'm busy too. But this is serious business. Look closer. Do it for me.

I need your opinion. How old do I look? I mean, I know I'm not 21 anymore (thank you God), but do I have that geriatric look? Not that a woman can't be regal, sophisticated, beautiful AND mature ..all at the same time. It's just not what I'm going for right now. I only ask because...

the SECOND person (in the same day) asked if Cooper is my GRANDSON. Seriously. I know I'm not superhip or anything but I didn't see that coming. Twice.

So .. if you are my friend, you'll be honest with me. Are the lowlights not working for me? Am I wearing mom jeans? Or .. am I just - as my doctor so cleverly labelled me - advanced maternal age?

So bring on the botox. and the celery sticks. and the personal trainer. and the eyebrow tweezer. Cause I'm not taking this lying down.

The Unveiling of "Roots and Wings"

Once again, a huge and heartfelt thank you goes out to my friend Sarah for updating the blog. She is gracious with both her time and talents ... and luckily for me, swayed by girls' nights out to yummy chinese restaurants and cute baby retail stores. It was fun to work with her on this ... she has an eye for color and creativity ... and for her to channel her "inner Amy" and do straight lines and so much "brown" ... well, I am sure it was torturous. I sooo owe her a cute baby gift.

But, I do LOVE how it came out. So do the kids. They love this blog. They enjoy reading what I say about them ... and they refer it to their friends when they are proud of something that is on it. Funny ... that is not something I imagined when I started on this adventure. It was mainly just a way to get over my phobia of technology and to update family on how quickly the kids are growing up. Making it a family project has been an unexpected bonus.

I saw this quote years ago and loved what it said. It is the essence of what we think parenting and family life is all about. Sometimes .. this is the litmus test we use to aid in our decision to do an activity or pursue a goal. Will it deepen our roots? help them prepare for their wings?

Add the symbolic flowers and butterflies, my favorite colors, and recent pictures of four of my favorite people .. and voila! My excuse for empty baby books, extremely dated journals and virtually no printed pictures.

So thank you to all of you who check in. I hope you realize how important you are to this experience .. and to us.

I'm Soooooooo Glad It's Over ...

the election that is. Yes, I am aware and proud that I and my family have witnessed the history making election of our first African American president. It demonstrates how far we have come as a nation. I believe we also have just as far to go. Still, I am so done with this campaign.

Why???

I'd like my kids to go back to being kids. Emma (being in second grade) first started hearing about McCain and Obama in kindergarten. A big thank you to our local schools for keeping the students abreast on current events, but enough already. I'm done explaining what stem cell research means, where Vietnam is and what "torture" and "POW" mean. The under 8 crowd (in my humble opinion) doesn't really need to know what "affiliation with terrorist groups" means.

I'm exhausted by attempting to explain what taxes are and breaking up disagreements between Girl Scouts and neighborhood kiddos who think they know which candidates will raise them or lower them. I've assured many a child that the results of the election will not have an impact on their piggy banks in the forseeable future.

My oldest two actually asked me if our family qualifies as "middle class." Heavens.

Don't get me wrong. I am all for educated, well-informed children. But seriously. I was sort of hoping we'd have a few more years of being called "poopyhead" and "doggiebreath" instead of "liberal" and "conservative."

Congratulations to president-elect Barack Obama. Now let's get on with it.