Complete Chaos

Messy!

2012-02-08T21:33:00.001-06:00

Audrey & I play every evening for about an hour between dinner & bedtime. Tonight we played in the kitchen. Audrey helped me make chocolate pudding. Yumm!

Audrey's 1st ER visit

2012-01-17T21:29:00.003-06:00

I hate to say it, but I'm glad we got this "first" out of the way. Audrey started running a low grade temp Tuesday after dinner, but I just chalked it up to teething. She was zonked by 7, but I didn't give it a second thought since it was first day back to daycare. However, we woke up screaming at 2am w/high fever. :(

I do not get along w/thermometers, but after giving up on 2 of my own a friend brought Hera over. Audrey had a temp of 102! Couldn't ever really get it to break & when I checked on her at 9 it was 104!!!!

Sooooo.... We headed to the ER. They did a strep test (negative), chest x-ray (clear), & urine analysis (fine). First 2 tests were a piece of cake, but the third about ripped out my heart. The nurses couldn't get a catheter in her & tried forever only to decide to tape a bag to her. So.Not.Fun!

Finally determined that she had an upper respiratory infection w/a high fever. This momma now knows to alternate Tylenol w/ibuprofen.

We also know now not to give Audrey amoxicillin. She broke out in hives on Saturday....

It is always something around here!

Big girl!

2012-01-04T08:48:00.001-06:00

Since we are still on winter break, we have a little more time to eat breakfast & experiment with silverware. Mommy thought Audrey would be a little messy so we stripped our clothes off. She didn't do bad, though, as she experimented with the spoon, her hand, & even her waffle to eat the yogurt.

Swimming!

2011-12-05T00:46:00.001-06:00

Audrey & I took an aquababies class during the month of November. She learned so much & loved it! There were only two other kids in the class & one was our good friend, Jacob.

Audrey would start laughing & splashing as soon as we were in the water. We would sing songs like Ring Around the Rosie, Wheels on the Bus, If you're Happy & You know it, & the Hokey Pokey doing motions like reach & pull or blowing bubbles. She would reach for me as I sat her on the side & said "come to me!" We would kick, play w/toys, & go under.

It was a fast 30 min., but she loved it! Audrey also loved playing w\the toilet paper as I got dressed in stall & lockers, too!

Can I freeze time?

2011-10-26T20:31:00.001-05:00

I love these moments!

Gavin still likes to cook or do crafts w/me & he has been DYING to make caramel apples. So, as soon as Audrey went to bed tonight we got to work!

He ALWAYS starts out wanting to do everything himself, but by the end he is saying "you do it."

However....I wouldn't change anything for the world!

Happy Birthday, Jim!

2011-09-13T21:13:00.001-05:00

Today is Jim's birthday! I won't tell how old he is because it is making him crabby. We had cake tonight w/family & I posted messages from the kiddies on Facebook all day!

Happy Birthday to my favorite guy!

11 months!

2011-09-12T20:50:00.001-05:00

Wow! Where did summer go? Oh, that's right! We spent it at the baseball park. I will catch up w/my children someday, but for now I'm checking out the blogger app for my iPhone. This lil miss is 11 months & into everything e en though she is not walking yet. Here are a few pics on her new outside toys.

NEED.TO.FIND.TIME

2011-05-05T20:10:00.004-05:00

I really need to find time to tell you what we are up to! Here's a short list:

Boys started baseball....enough said!

However, Gman is pitching this year!

Audrey started rolling on a Thursday and by Monday was trying to get into a crawling position!

Audrey isn't sleeping 10-12 hours a night like I bragged about forever. She hasn't slept through the night since she started rolling three weeks ago. I wasn't sure if it was allergies, teeth, hunger, growing pains, ears...so after two weeks we went to the doctor. NOTHING wrong with her! We have thus begun to cry it out! I.WANT.TO.CRY!

Audrey started blowing raspberries this week. The boys love it!

I have too many projects going on at school to even begin to tell you about!

Jim is again attempting to coach both baseball teams...ugh! I love that he is active in boys' lives, but I feel like we are constantly running in different directions.

Ryan was home and Audrey fell in love just like the boys. He deploys at the end of the month.

I promise to catch up and post pics soon!

Unexpected...

2011-04-11T20:29:00.003-05:00

An amazing lady in my life passed away yesterday. My stepgrandmother, Betty, lost her battle with cancer. She was always healthy, happy, and strong which is making this harder. I've been praying for peace and understanding for the last few days.

Betty took me in as family immediately and treated my kiddos like her great grandkids, too. It was scary how fast she went downhill this last week. Audrey and I saw her on Tuesday. She was sitting up in her chair eating dinner. By Friday, she was bedridden and they called in Hospice. Betty talked to Audrey Friday night, but that was the last time she knew we were there.

I'm glad that she is no longer in pain. However, it will not be any easier to say goodbye.

Guess who is sitting on her own?

2011-03-24T15:19:00.004-05:00

Yep! Miss Audrey!

She isn't completely independent yet, but is getting the hang of it.

Audrey does pretty well until she reaches for a toy.

She can straighten herself up if she falls forward, but if we go to the side or back, we are down for the count.

Mommy is sad that her spring break is almost over!

Basketball

2011-03-23T13:44:00.006-05:00

Bailey has been playing basketball at the Y this winter. Looking back at these pictures, I can't believe how big and skinny he is! He actually just walked in from a trip to his doctor and he is 5 feet, four inches tall and weighs 112 pounds!

He has scored points in several different games.

He is good,I just wish that he believed in himself more!

His team won all their games! Bailey had fun and now it's onto baseball!

First Taste of Food

2011-03-23T13:28:00.003-05:00

Audrey has been trying to grab our food and since she is 5 1/2 mths, we decided to try food over Spring Break.

We went with sweet potatoes first because we heard green vegetables have more gas. Audrey is already a gassy baby :)

She LOVES sweet potatoes!

Give me more, mom!

Not a fan of green beans, but has been trying them more and more.

First Sickness = No Fun!

2011-03-23T11:00:00.004-05:00

I'm on Spring Break and trying to play catch up. Maybe one of these days, I'll post things when they actually happen....

I need to learn to keep my mouth shut! I had said on Monday that "knock on wood, Audrey had been very healthy." Of course, my fellow teachers told me that I had just cursed myself. Low and behold, Audrey's junky nose started effecting her sleep Tuesday night. I decided to stay home and call the doctor because she had a low grade fever and had developed a cough. Doctor ordered breathing treatments ( I know way too much about these with my own health) and a chest xray.

Daddy showed up at the hospital as soon as I text him with the news. I thought, man, she's already a Daddy's girl. He claimed he didn't want me to have to go through that by myself. Dr. Larson warned me that chest xrays are no fun, but I really didn't know what I was in for. I should have let Dad take her in, but I hate hearing her cry and not be able to soothe her. The contraption looked like a medieval torture chamber! She had to sit on this bicycle seat with her arms stretched above her while they closed a clear plastic tube around her. Audrey screamed! Luckily the chest xray came back clear so it was a week of breathing treatments every four hours.

These nebulizers have come a long way since I was a baby! We still have mine and it is about 20 times bigger than Audrey's! Plus, it has a car adapter! Grandma Deb was a little jealous of that remembering all the times we had to stop for Uncle Ryan or my treatments when traveling.

Daddy took her back to the doctor a week later. We really felt that she was starting to feel better. It had been a rough week! Audrey HATED mommy because I was constantly wiping her nose and she was coughing and spitting up after the breathing treatments started loosening everything. We had her sleeping in her carseat, which helped keep her upright, until she was houdini and somehow got out of it and ended up face down on the floor perpendicular to the seat! Mommy freaked and ran to pick her up! I got the biggest grin from her! Needless to say, we are no longer using the swaddler (we have graduated to a sleep sack with arms pinned shut) and we went back to sleeping in the crib immediately!

Here she is the day before her follow up with the doctor. Does she look sick?

Audrey ended up having an ear infection at this appointment! Ugh! So we were to continue the breathing treatments, add an antibiotic, and come back in two weeks.

Audrey and I just got home from her follow-up! This girl is all better and now weighs 17# 4oz!!!

Four months old!

2011-02-06T14:26:00.004-06:00

Audrey went for her four month well check last Thursday. It turned out to be a snow day, so Mommy didn't miss work.

This big girl weighs 15# and is 25 1/2 inches long!

She is eating 27 oz. of formula a day w/ cereal in her bottle twice a day.

Audrey is an A.W.E.S.O.M.E. sleeper at night, generally sleeping 10-11 hours!

(Still using the swaddler)

Naps during the day are a different story, though. She will only nap if held...

Audrey is wearing 3-6mths and 6mth clothes. She is currently wearing a size1-2 diaper.

Mommy thinks she is going to be a Daddy's girl because she smiles at him constantly! She does love smiling at her brothers, too....gotta be center of attention!

Audrey has laughed a handful of times. The first time was in church while everyone was praying. Daddy made a face at her and she laughed really loud. She has also laughed at Bailey & at an older gentleman at her cousin Makailee's birthday. We can't wait til she does it all the time!

Big girl!

2011-02-03T10:02:00.003-06:00

These pictures are actually from over our long winter break, but Audrey is sleeping in my arms so I'm trying to get caught up on posts!

Audrey is really wanting to sit up, so we introduced the bumbo seat. She doesn't want to miss a thing! Here is our big girl!

Please don't think I only let Gavin play video games! However, it was very cold out and we were kinda stuck inside. It's hard having a lazy teenager, a baby who needs a nap & feeding schedule, and then Gavin. Nothing really keeps his attention for long. We will need to be creative this summer!

Cereal

2011-02-03T09:54:00.004-06:00

Audrey is 4 months old! She has been watching us intently as we eat, so we decided to try cereal w/a spoon. I made the mistake of trying it first when she was crabby & that didn't work. She is getting more receptive. On this day, we got about half of the amount down before she refused & started screaming. I have a video, too, if I can figure out how to upload it.Brother had to sneak into picture!

Mommy, what is this stuff?!

Audrey rolled over!

2011-01-15T21:56:00.003-06:00

I am one proud Mommy today! Audrey rolled from her tummy to her back for the first time today!

I was sitting on the floor talking to her during tummy time and she started to roll. I yelled for Daddy to look quick. He said she won't do it. She sure showed him!

Audrey did it again after Daddy went back to what he was doing, so he went and got the video camera. Think she would do it for the camera? Nope!

I have enjoyed being at home with my baby during my extended winter break. She has changed so much. Audrey is in a routine with sleeping and eating. She smiles all day long and is really moving her arms and legs. Audrey has discovered her hands as she grabs, bats, and pulls on toys. She also puts EVERYTHING in her mouth, including most of her fist. Audrey loves to flash her smile at Daddy and her brothers (think she enjoys being the spotlight?). She is really no longer a fussy baby.

Do I have to go back to work? :(

Christmas 2010

2011-01-12T14:24:00.007-06:00

I'm catching up! Only 2 more posts to catch you up on the Sturgis' lives!

Christmas was fun this year! I will be the first to admit that when you come from a divorced family and have to share children in a divorced family that sometimes Christmas can seem to drag on forever and we usually get overwhelmed and very cranky. It was sad not to see some family this year due to illness, but was very nice to keep it low key!

We started our Christmas with my Dad, Vicki, stepbrothers, & families on the 23rd.

Audrey noticed that she had a cousin about two weeks before this and it was fun to see her interact with Cooper (watch out next Christmas, these two will be walking!)

The boys went to their mom's Christmas Eve, but came home that night to wake up Christmas morning with us for the first time. We opened gifts at my mom's Christmas Eve and then we (Jim) cooked a turkey and we had Christmas dinner at our house the next day. I guess that means I'm growing up if I actually host dinner, huh?

Gavin got his Kinnect. Can you tell that he was excited?

Bailey is at the age where he really only wants video games. He received a basketball hoop and can't wait for warmer weather for it to go up.

We feel very blessed on this holiday!

First Smile...

2011-01-11T13:17:00.003-06:00

...at least the first smile captured on camera!

Grandma Deb complains that Audrey only smiles for Mommy, but she was the first one to capture a smile on camera. She sent this one to Mommy while working on December 14th.

Two Months

2011-01-10T21:31:00.004-06:00

Mommy felt lucky to stay home with Audrey for 7 weeks, but had to return to work the Monday after Thanksgiving. It was rough, but not because she had to leave her baby. Audrey was staying with Grandma Deb and Mommy knew she was in good hands! Mommy just didn't miss her job at all! However, winter break this year was almost 4 weeks long and Mommy only had to work for 3 and 1/2 weeks before that 4 week break started. :)

Audrey's two month doctor appointment fell in Mommy's first week back to work, so Daddy took her to visit Dr. Larson.

We started Audrey on formula at 6 weeks. She really just seemed to prefer it to breastmilk. She slept through the night for the first time shortly after starting formula (only once though, but the sleeping hours definately started going for longer stretches). At her appointment, she weighed 11 # 8 oz, and was 23 1/4 inches long. Daddy said this put her in the 50th percentile for weight and 75th for length. Her head circumference was only in the 25th! We need to balance out here, Audrey!

Audrey continues to be pretty fussy. Daddy and I decided to ask to try the medicine for her reflux. Dr. Larson prescribed her Prevacid. We were very frustrated trying to figure out how to give these solutabs to her, but finally figured out that a syringe worked the best.

Audrey received several shots. She had to drink one and Daddy said she SCREAMED as soon as it was administered. He didn't want to leave her at Grandma's after that, but she gave him a big smile before he left. Grandma said she slept most of the day.

Mommy doesn't get much done in the evenings now. She picks Audrey and Gavin up from Grandma Debs right after school. If Audrey takes a nap when everyone gets home, Mommy runs around trying to get everything (laundry, homework, clothes pick out, pajamas on, etc.) done before baby wakes up so she can hold her the rest of the night. (That would be the reason this blog is just now getting updated!)

At two months, Audrey still absolutely LOVES bathtime! It really calms her down when she is upset....however, she is not at all crazy about getting out to dry off and get dressed.

First Thanksgiving

2010-12-29T14:33:00.007-06:00

Uncle Ryan and mommy's Uncle Dale came to meet Audrey for the first time at Thanksgiving.

Mommy's friend Jen made her this cute Turkey outfit!

She was mesmorized helping Daddy straighten out the tree.

We got to see all of Grandma Vicki's side of the family by having dinner at Crappy's. It was also Betty's birthday!

One Month

2010-12-29T14:25:00.003-06:00

Audrey likes her food!

At one month old she weighed 9 pounds and was 20 1/2 inches long!

The doctor thought Audrey was having some reflux by the symptoms I described and watching her. She said we could try the medicine prevacid or add rice cereal to her bottles. I decided to try the cereal first.

Audrey was still in newborn size diapers at one month.

She was wearing some 0-3 size clothes, but alot of newborn sized as well.

I was feeding her strictly breastmilk from a bottle and she was feeding every two-three hours.

I have to admit, Audrey, you were a pretty fussy baby at this point!

First Halloween

2010-12-29T14:12:00.003-06:00

Miss Audrey slept through her first Halloween.

She went trick or treating to three houses.

Grandma Vicki and Grandpa Pat gave her a Halloween board book and some bibs.

Then we were off to see Grandma Deb and our last stop was at Betty's house.

Hard to think that she'll probably be walking next Halloween!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T08:55:00.002-06:00

I really wanted to be caught up on documenting Audrey's first two months of life by now...heck, the girl will be three months next week! However, she wishes you a very Merry Christmas!

Jaundice...ugh!

2010-12-14T18:41:00.003-06:00

We left the hospital thinking that our perfect daughter was just that...perfect! However, when we went to the doctor on Monday, she said that word...jaundice.

We were sent next door to the hospital for a blood draw.

I.HATE.HOW.THEY.DRAW.BLOOD.FROM.BABIES!

I'm very thankful that hubby was with me that first day (I had already had my first emotional breakdown on Saturday) because he held Audrey while they drew blood from her heel. She screamed!!! In fact, the receptionist made a comment that she heard her by the front door! We then headed home to wait for the results. Her levels had doubled since we left the hospital on Friday. Doctor said to feed her every two ounces every two hours, put her in the sunlight, keep track of all diapers, and return to the hospital for a blood draw the next day. I have to admit I was a mess that night! Worried that something was going to be seriously wrong and that I didn't do enough that first weekend to protect her.

The next day, the nurse who drew Audrey's blood was awesome. In fact, after the initial poke, Audrey went back to sleep. Her levels were slightly lower, so we were instructed to continue the sun, feedings, and diaper details.

One week later, we returned to the doctor. Hubby was at work, so my mom went with me. Doctor thought Audrey was still jaundice so we headed next door. I was praying this was the last time for that dreaded blood draw. My prayers were answered! Her levels were much lower and we didn't have to return to the doctor for three weeks.

Here is our little sunbather!

Lots of visitors...

2010-12-13T17:40:00.003-06:00

The doctors actually released both Audrey and myself a day early. I wanted to come home because the boys were going to their mom's and it would give us a chance to settle in before the boys came back home on Sunday night. My wonderful mother-in-law stayed with us Friday night. However, she was so busy cleaning and doing my laundry that I didn't get to visit with her much.

I'm as horrible at taking pictures as I am of printing them, but we did have lots of visitors in the hospital. All the grandparents were there to meet Audrey as soon as they were allowed in. Tim, Chelsea, & Cooper stopped by early in the day. Betty and Mary came by later.

Since we left early, we had a houseful that night. My Dad and Stepmom were there. Todd & Jill came by, along with Kristie Spencer. It was nice to see so many people.

Cousin Makailee is surrounded by babies as her little brother Cooper is two months older and she will be getting a little sister in March.

Great Grandma Trant was there bright and early Saturday.

My Godparents, Joe & Sue, made a special trip to Galesburg to meet Audrey.

Audrey's other visitors included all the Spencers, Sandi, Tanya & Samuel, and Mary & Reese. She is loved so much already as so many other people sent or dropped off gifts.

Labor...or what I remember of it...

2010-12-12T21:47:00.003-06:00

Audrey entered this world pretty quickly. Of course, I was uncomfortable and ready for her to come long before she did. I had some weird symptoms on Sunday, but felt better towards the end of the day. However, I started spotting and decided to call the hospital. They said to come in to get checked out. I knew I wasn't staying, but it was a trial run for us. We got home from the hospital around midnight that night. Poor hubby had to work all the next day while I got to start my half days. I came home and took a long nap!

I had my weekly appointment on Wednesday. When I had finally sat down around noon, I noticed that my contractions seemed to be pretty regular. They were coming every 7 minutes. However, at my appointment at 2:45, I was only a two. She said to go to the hospital when my contractions were every three.

My evening went pretty normal, except for the contractions which started going irregular. I picked up Gman and helped the boys with homework. Hubby made dinner while I walked the dog, did the dishes, and vaccummed. After the boys went to bed, I decided to take a bath because some people said it would help ease the discomfort of the contractions. Nope! They lied! I was in extreme pain by the time I got out. My contractions were regular again and this time they were every three minutes! I laid on the couch for awhile longer, but then told the hubby to call my mom to stay with the boys because we were going to the hospital!

After getting all set in the hospital, the nurse came in and said I had two options. I was still only a 2. I could go home or take a sleeping pill. She said if I was truly in labor, the sleeping pill would do nothing, but if I wasn't in labor then everything would stop. I just wanted the pain to go away (EXTREME back labor) and thus took the sleeping pill. Forty-five minutes later, I was a 4 and was admitted. I opted for an IV med first, and shortly after that my water broke. At this point, the IV med was doing nothing for my back labor. I decided to have an epideral and all my pain was instantly gone. My midwife appeared early and told me to get some rest, that she thought it would be awhile. My family filtered in and then disappeared. I started pushing after ten. They called the midwife three times and told me I had to stop pushing until she arrived. I remember being in a good mood and joking with my hubby at this point. Finally, the midwife appeared and Audrey was born. We hadn't even been in the hospital for twelve hours yet! It all happened rather quickly and painlessly (once I got my epideral)!

Her big brothers came to the hospital after school and were very excited to see their new sister!

She's here!!!

2010-12-11T14:11:00.003-06:00

Actually, she's been here for 9 weeks....

......hey, I've been a little busy being a mommy to 3!

AUDREY JANE STURGIS

arrived 10/7/10

weighing 7lbs. 8oz.

19 inches long

at 10:55am.

It stopped raining!

2010-06-23T15:40:00.004-05:00

The weather here has NOT been cooperative!

Golf has been rained out...

baseball has been rained out...
the kids have cabin fever!

Today I had four kiddos and when it stopped raining, I literally jumped at the chance to get outside.

The library had a petting zoo...

The kids were great! They listened quietly to the lady explaining all the animals and then waited in line to pet and hold all of the animals. There was a llama, pony, ferret, skunk, rat, duck, frog, turtles, and others.

This tired little girl was fighting a nap when we got home!

I can do four kids......I think....

Well, let's see what happens with three when the baby comes.....

It's a girl!

2010-06-01T17:50:00.005-05:00

It's a girl!A girl who looks perfect and is measuring right on target with the due date!

The sonographer said she's never been wrong...but is scared that there has to be a first time.
Let's hope it's not with us!

1st try-out= SUCCESS!!!

2010-05-31T16:23:00.003-05:00

B continues to amaze me! Two years ago, he was refusing to play baseball and now this...

he has MADE the ALL-STAR TEAM!!!!!

The all-star team is a traveling tournament team. There were 17 kids who tried out and they only pick 13. This was his first experience with a try-out and we are very excited for him. We have always said that he can do anything he wants when he puts his mind to it. I think he is figuring that out...

Ryan's home!

2010-05-30T19:39:00.003-05:00

Okay, okay...so Uncle Ryan has actually been home from Iraq since the middle of April.

He came home in early May to visit family.

I'm a little behind...

However, can you tell that these boys missed him?

We are happy he is safely back in the United States. Now if only Texas didn't feel so far away!

Good news...

2010-03-14T20:50:00.006-05:00

I should be lesson planning or going to bed, but I finally feel decent this weekend and have been keeping this secret too long!

WE ARE EXPECTING!

I've known since Feb. 5th, but didn't want to tell anybody because of the miscarriage a year ago.

As you can see, though, all is good! God is fabulous!

These are actually the 2nd ultrasound pictures. Due to my gene mutation, MTHFR, we were sent to a specialist in Peoria. He said these were the best pictures he has seen this early in a pregnancy. Baby is measuring 9 weeks, so I've received my fourth due date of Oct. 14th. Heart rate was 143 last week and 178 this week. Dr. said the baby aspirin should be all I need and that he hopes to not see me back! Praise God!

Not sure baby liked being poked and prodded with the camera. Baby wiggled and waved an arm at us here.

The specialist took 3-D ultrasound pictures, too. We were sent home with about six new pictures, plus a CD containing more. We would like to go back to this doctor just to see these cool pics again. It'll be so hard to wait another 11 weeks to see baby again!

Here we go again....

2010-02-09T20:35:00.002-06:00

February is the shortest month, but NOT my favorite month!

Let's flashback two years ago......

I came home and had to make the horrible choice of putting my dog down and then my grandmother died the next night....

Last year....

I miscarried and then lost my stepgrandfather.

I'm giving my worries to God this year. I hope to blog with GOOD news this month!

Basketball has started...

2010-01-19T21:00:00.001-06:00

Eyes wide open...

2010-01-12T19:35:00.003-06:00

As I sit here pretending to still be in class because hubby is grumpy and boys are not behaving...I'm thinking about the Dr. Seuss book, I Can Read with my Eyes Wide Shut!

Class. started. tonight.

Does that not say it all....

I really think that I've developed ADHD being a teacher. I CANNOT sit still for three hours straight anymore! This class will be interesting, yet lots of work...

Here is my entertainment during class...

Jack is bored at the moment, however, he likes to bite at my microphone.

Payton has to be right on top of my blanket and sometimes has her head on the computer.

See it's not completely my fault that I can't pay attention!

Stop the clock!

2010-01-08T09:37:00.003-06:00

Anybody have any ideas on how to stop the clock? My kiddos are growing up too fast!

When hubby came into my life, Gman was 2 1/2. He was very shy when we first met, hiding behind Dad's leg, but eventually grinned at me and jumped into my arms for a hug. He has always been the cuddly one. We still get random, surprise, attack hugs and he constantly says "I love you!" (especially if his brother is in trouble). However, he doesn't want to hold my hand in congested areas or hug us if anyone is around.

Sigh....

I guess I'll take moments like these when they come and cherish them!

SNOW DAY!!

2010-01-07T11:39:00.003-06:00

I really didn't think it would happen...
....to be honest I'm ready to be done with the snow.

However, I had fun this morning with these two guys.....

Procrastination...you've heard this one before!

2010-01-05T20:21:00.002-06:00

I'm supposed to be grading....

my house needs cleaned...

there's laundry to do.

Instead I'm blogging and watching...

and my Kindle is calling my name...

Yes! My hubby did AWESOME for Christmas!

Goodbye 2009! Hello, there 2010!

2010-01-03T15:39:00.003-06:00

Wow! It's been a year since I started this blog! I looked back and realized I wasn't so good at keeping my resolutions, let alone posting on a recurring basis. Here's to making 2010 better!

Highlights and happenings of 2009:

* Found out we were expecting and then finding out I had miscarried

* Losing my stepgrandfather to cancer, but knowing he is in a much better place

* Handling financial setbacks caused by the puppetmaster w/grace instead of anger (man, that has taken awhile to be able to do, but I'm so glad we are there!)

* Selling our first house and buying something that fits us

* Stressed out as hubby took on the role of coach for the first time

* Started grad school, again

* B got glasses and survived his first E.R. visit, plus won a trophy w/his baseball team

* B got straight A's!

* Let the door close on one business, but opened the door to another one

My goals for 2010:

(I'm going for short term goals that I can accomplish this year!)

* Cooke will be automated by the end of Febuary (this task was started in Aug. of 08....)

* I will lose 25 pounds by June 1st! (unless we end up pregnant....)

As an ending note, why do the years seem to fly now, but when we were young time seemed to crawl?

Times...they are achanging!

2009-12-29T10:22:00.004-06:00

Christmas was very different this year. First off, my brother wasn't home. He is in Iraq until April. The puppetmaster wanted the boys more this break, which is good for them, but threw off some of our plans. Christmas in our house is normally very hectic with lots of family in short amout of time. This year was very laid back. It was relaxing, but was stretched out which wasn't exactly a good thing.

I was expecting my mom to be a basketcase with my brother gone, but she was fine. My Grandma, on the other hand, caught me completely off guard. I made both my Grandma and step-Grandma a set of glass ornaments with all the last names in their family. My step-Grandfather hasn't been gone a year and my Grandfather has been gone 25 years. My step-Grandma seems to be doing quite well, but my Grandma got very upset when I gave her my gift. It was very dramatic, but ended well.

Christmas at her house was another big change, too. She moved this summer and does not have room for all of us. She rented out the community room in the basement. There is a bar, tv, couches, etc. there. It actually was a nice fit for us. Grandma tended bar for a little bit as she dished out the whiskey slush. There was a Wii to keep the big kids entertained and room for the little ones to run and not break anything of Grandma's.

Times...they are changing, which I don't always adapt well to, but good memories were made.....

Sticky fun....

2009-12-28T15:11:00.005-06:00

I wanted to get together with all my friends this season and start something new....

Everyone was invited to stop by anytime in the afternoon.

There was hot chocolate, apple cider, sugar cookies to decorate, and of course I was making goodies, too.

Wasn't really a plan...just kinda wanted to hang out with everyone.

Intended on putting a Christmas movie on for kids....scratch that. I couldn't get the audio to work with the DVD player. Thank goodness for the cartoon network! Most of them ended up in Gman's room anyways or doing circles around our house, but hey there wasn't really a plan.

Here's my attempt at a gingerbread house kit.....

Thank goodness for my mother!

Here is one group shot I could get with all the kiddos before we decorated cookies. B is missing. He was not real happy that no one came that was his age...

Sticky.......but fun!!!

Christmas with good friends...

2009-12-27T19:57:00.004-06:00

It has almost been a week, but that's better than my track record for posting things lately!

Last Tuesday, we celebrated Christmas with friends that have pretty much become family over the last three years...

Mary was my student teacher in the fall of 2007 and was able to take my position when I moved to the library.

She was Gman's teacher last year.

Matt is Gman's teacher this year.

I love their children as my own and I have a feeling they have a special place in their hearts for my kiddos!

I would call on these friends for anything.....

Doesn't Reese just look like she knows that these two would do anything for her?

Reese picked out a cub's clock for my hubby. He says it is going on the mantle...we shall see..

B gets to spend some quality time w/Mary at InnKeeper's & Dick Blick! I love that he is smiling!

I'd say gifts were a hit!

She cracks me up!

First hockey game...

2009-12-20T18:56:00.004-06:00

I've been telling the boys that I would take them to a hockey game for awhile, but their dad is not a fan. However, last Saturday, the perfect opportunity arrived as my neice had to sing at the Peoria Rivermen game. The whole family went and the boys were asking when we were coming back before we even made it to the car.

Gman was still in awe and really didn't want to focus on me for this picture.

We really don't see the uncles enough.

I didn't have a good angle to take my neice's picture while they were singing, but here she is with her friend doing the cha cha slide!

Fun with family...we need to do this more often!

BRRRR.....

2009-12-09T17:47:00.003-06:00

The weatherman said there would be a blizzard today.

He said 6-12 inches of snow.
He said freezing rain/ice.
He said blowing wind and cold temperatures.

He changed his story at 5:00 last night.

No 6-12 inches of snow....more like 3 inches.

It's COLD and BLOWING, but apparently not enough for a snow day!

Which meant I could not curl up with coffee and a good book today...

or do this...

or this w/the kids!

The weatherman is NOT on Santa's good list!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-02T21:27:00.004-06:00

Pictures capture so many things....especially when you have been absent from blogging....

Dear Lord,

2009-11-08T21:00:00.003-06:00

You know my heart.

You know when I question your plan.

You know that I don't always see the answers you try to give me.

I see now.

I understand why you took my brother to Iraq.

He will miss the holidays.

He, however, will only miss one holiday.

Please take care of all those people at Ft. Hood, the families affected by this gunman, and make it safe for when Ryan returns!

Amen.

Hats...

2009-10-10T14:01:00.003-05:00

As I sit here trying to warm up from Gman's soccer game (38 degrees outside!) and contemplating how I'm going to get my haircut in thirty minutes while keeping my stocking cap on, I realized it has been way too long since I posted. The reason....

the many, MANY hats that I love to wear!

I'm sure there are many more, but the point is that we have been very busy!

New house...

2009-08-20T15:22:00.007-05:00

Here are pictures of the new house...painting done, but decorating and landscaping not! I have so many wants still, but we will be here a LONG time. The neighborhood is SOOOOOOOOOOOO quiet and the boys have already made friends. Our last area didn't have many kids. It is strange now to not have to check on the boys and or break up fights all day long....

Sorry, not much comentary on the pics...grad class starts in few hours and the hubby is working late.

Oh boy...

2009-08-17T23:33:00.003-05:00

...not so sure about this!

A couple of posts back I mentioned that I have to go back to school in order to become certified in Library Science to keep my position as a Library and Media Specialist....yuck! I've already done the going back to school thing as I already have one master's degree.

I really should quit the complaining...I'm just nervous. At ISU, the online courses are done through Elluminate. This means that I will login to a site every Thursday and wear a headset with a microphone to communicate with my classmates and professor for three hours. I will literally be sitting in a class, just in my own home....looking like this...

Research and Information Services...here I come...READY OR NOT!

Chiefs game...

2009-08-16T23:00:00.005-05:00

B's baseball coach took the whole team to last Thursday night's Chiefs game. Although we were disappointed to miss Ted Lilly's rehab start by one night, it was still a cool experience for B. I can't get my blackberry video to upload to my computer at the moment, but B's team got to go down on the field, have their names announced along with the Chief's player who played that position, and run out onto the field with them. They stood next to the player through the National Anthem and then the player signed a ball that the players received from the Chiefs. The player that autographed B's ball hit two home runs during the game! After the game, everyone in the family was given a pass to run the bases. The hubby and I passed, but Gman thought this was awesome as he led EVERYONE around the field!

We really couldn't have asked for a better coach for B this year! He was patient, yet firm and taught B so much. Thanks, Coach John!

Weekend...maybe even a week...recap

2009-08-10T21:29:00.004-05:00

Life has been busy! My MIL took the boys camping last week so that I could get some work done at school. I thought that I would get all my books in the system so that I could spend these last two weeks with my boys.
I had the best intentions...then found out I was locked out of both schools!
One school is just now laying tile after removing asbestos and we are not supposed to even try to walk on the tile until next MONDAY. Do they realize school starts next Friday?

The other school is where I had summer school. The janitor there is WONDERFUL and does a great job of cleaning! He wants us to stay out until tomorrow. I really don't know when I'll go in and work now....OH, WELL!

I decided to redo our bedroom instead...I promise pictures of our new house to come soon!

This weekend, I went shopping with mom in Chicago because we had a wedding shower to attend on Sunday. I LOVE this store!

I really wished at that point I would have dragged my hubby along. There were so many items I wanted to buy for my boys' rooms. Told him that we are making a weekend trip back up there soon!

When I got home, I got to work right away on my new business! Some might know that I already sell Tastefully Simple, but these books kept calling my name. I buy them as gifts, use them in my classrooms and libraries, and have even thrown a baby shower where the expecting mama got all the new books. Hello...I might as well sell them if not only for the discount! Check out my new website at http://sturgisbookstore.com/!

I am also officially a REDBIRD! I applied back in June to ISU to get another master's degree. I really didn't see myself continuing to another degree, but I do like the potential my library job has once I get past the tedious details. So I'm headed back to get my master's in school librarianship.
I'm a little nervous...when I completed my last degree...I was not a full-time stepmom! I registered for my class today. Can someone please tell me how I can take an internet class that meets from 5:30-8:20 every Thursday night? I have a feeling I'm going to have to lock the bedroom door just to attend class....

As you can see...it's bedtime around here! I really wanna know what Payton is thinking right now as she has one eye open....goodnight!

Goodbye...again

2009-08-05T15:41:00.005-05:00

I'm very tired as I write this, so please forgive any spelling or grammatical errors! I've been up since two a.m.! My brother, Ryan, had to be at the airport early this morning to head back to Iraq.

I slept over at my mom's so that I didn't wake my hubby up (and so that I would be on time!). When I got there last night, Ryan was just starting his laundry and packing...he suggested we pull an all-nighter! He gets to sleep on planes for the next two days...we don't!

Ryan was home on R&R for the past two weeks. He has only been in Iraq for three months, but he doesn't have a family and was nominated to take his leave first. Saying goodbye has never been really hard for me with Ryan because he really hasn't been home since he left for college. He went to Northern and worked up there the last two summers he was there. After graduation, he went straight to basic bootcamp and has been all army ever since. He is currently a warrant officer and flies blackhawk helicopters. Ryan's brigade is more like a shuttle service in Iraq. I'm not worried about him, but he will not be home again for nine (a very LONG nine) more months.

Ryan was ready to get back and start flying, get back into his routine. I do wish he could be closer, my boys and I love "Uncle" Ryan!

Faithgirlz...

2009-07-31T15:47:00.002-05:00

I took the boys to the library today to turn in their summer reading chart and claim their final prizes. While I was waiting, I was checking out the new book rack in the children's room. A new series caught my eye....

...I came home and googled Faithgirlz. There is a couple of different series of these books written for tweens. There are fiction books, nonfiction, bibles, etc. showing girls how they can deal with social issues in a Christian way. The series above is called Blog On! I love how it appeals to tweens and encourages them to believe it, change it, create it, and to live it. Awesome! Check out the website at www.faithgirlz.com!

Now who is going to write some graphic novels to teach my boys the same stuff?

Wordless Wednesday..

2009-07-29T22:37:00.007-05:00

Lots of pics to share from Gman's party/Chiefs game...thought I would make my first Wordless Wednesday post...enjoy! We had so much fun!

Photographer spotlight...

2009-07-27T22:43:00.003-05:00

A good friend took these...I know I'm prejudiced, but I think she did an awesome job!

Thanks, Mary!

Gman is 8!

2009-07-26T12:35:00.003-05:00

Where did the time go?!!?

This child came into my life when he was 3 1/2, and he turned 8 last Sunday. He was with the puppetmaster on his birthday, so he was lucky enough to have THREE parties. He had two with us, as we had cake and ice cream with some family members that night and then went to a Peoria Chiefs game last night. We are big Cubs fans and the Chiefs are their class A farm team.

Gman was so excited that he didn't get much sleep all week! We took 16 friends and family members out to eat and then to the game. My brother, who is currently serving in Iraq, was home and able to attend as well. He could not stop smiling last night as the fireworks show ended. He was so happy as he crashed in the car!

I will post more pictures tomorrow...

Any ideas how to pull off something equally as great for B's birthday in two months?

My birthday...

2009-07-24T08:50:00.004-05:00

Plan #1: Chicago to a WIU alumni event to watch Cubs play Cardinals

CANCELLED due to baseball!

Plan #2: Spend the weekend at both boys' baseball games

CANCELLED due to weather!

Plan #3: Meet my hubby's mom at Joe's Crab Shack for dinner

TOTAL EMBARRASSMENT!

Now, I absolutely love my mother-in-law! However, I did not love the fact that she told the waiter it was my birthday. If you have not been to one of these restaurants, you must go. Good food and good times!

The waiter came over and gave me two blown up crabs. He said that in between each line of the birthday song that I would have to yell, "I got crabs for my birthday!" I didn't yell loud enough for him, either, so had to repeat it several times....

To make the experience even more memorable, it was all posted on the Joe's Crab Shack website! I LOVE the pic of my hubby with his head in his hands and the waiter laughing hysterically. That was when I leaned over and asked who was going to explain "I got crabs for my birthday" to the boys.

Where did the summer go?

2009-07-23T23:05:00.004-05:00

Wow! My last post was about how my summer had just begun and now I realize how it's almost over....where did the time go?

* WE MOVED JUNE 25th! (were given notice of closing date 4 days in advance)

* Baseball ended last week (4 months after it started)

* Summer school ended today (BIG class)

*Teaching Vacation Bible School this week (Preschoolers get very cranky by the end of the week)

* Ryan is home from Iraq for two weeks

*Throwing not one, but two bday parties for Gman

Hmm...those last four things are all happening this week...guess I really don't know what happened to the rest of the summer...

Here's a pic of Gman that I had to share from the "Taste" tonight. I kept trying to get one with the ice cream and chocolate all over his face, but he would wipe it off before I could. LOVE this pic that I caught!

Summer days...

2009-06-10T09:36:00.005-05:00

My summer officially started Monday afternoon. I feel I've been somewhat productive....

I've packed two closets and started planning lessons for the first week of summer school, despite the fact that my asthma has been out of control. It turns out that I'm really allergic to my job. I bet not many people can say that and actually find truth in it! Last week, I had to take inventory which requires me to physically bring all the books to the computer, scan each one, and then take them back to the shelf. My library is DISGUSTING! It is so dusty and smelled musty once they turned the air on. Hence, my asthma is crazy. The pollen count is not helping, either!

Anyhow, I'm having trouble getting started today. I took the boys out to the community college where they will be spending their mornings four days a week while I teach this summer. When I came home, I made the mistake of getting on the computer....I can't seem to tear myself away! I have been absent so long from blogging and am enjoying catching up.

It doesn't help that Jack is on my lap and refuses to move...
Arghh! Back to packing this house......

I'm singing...

2009-06-09T20:01:00.004-05:00

I'M SO EXCITED AND I JUST CAN'T HIDE IT!

This child

got an A on his report card!!! Not only an A, but two B's and a C. This is the child who got D's and F's last year!!!

I'M SO EXCITED!

Dogs...center of attention

2009-05-20T21:45:00.005-05:00

I don't know about yours, but mine has so much personality. Thought I'd share a picture of Payton at the baseball game....

She wasn't the center of attention at the moment, so she rolled onto her back and just stared at me. Tonight at Gman's game, she had about five little kids petting her and she just loved it. Payton is part pitbull and can scare some people off. It's frustrating that I have to reassure people that I wouldn't have her at a baseball game around lots of people if she was aggressive...I understand the stereotype, but I don't think I fit that image of a person who would train her animal to attack someone....

Baseball...ugh!

2009-05-19T20:59:00.003-05:00

I love baseball...don't get me wrong! I just don't love baseball six days a week! I have had a post forming in my head every single day, but do not have time to sit down and write it out. We have accepted an offer on the house, but I'm not counting my chickens before they hatch because NOTHING EVER GOES SMOOTHLY FOR US! My stepbrother got married last weekend and it was beautiful. I have not gotten ANY work done at one of my schools and it is starting to make me crazy, but here I am posting on my blog. Better get to it, but thought I'd share some pics from baseball...B's game tonight, Gman's tomorrow....

Absence makes the heart grow fonder...

2009-05-07T21:13:00.004-05:00

I have not had time to sit down and blog for two weeks!!!! Believe me, I've been keeping up on yours as I can type one in and have time to read a post between classes, but not time to sit and write my own. I have two words for you, HOUSE and BASEBALL.

This is very scary for me, but two weeks ago my man and I decided to put our house up for sale. This is MY first house. The house where we really became a family. We have been doing little things here and there to get it ready. My man worked his tail off opening and cleaning the pool, putting up new ceiling tiles, installing a ceiling fan, and finishing the trim in the kitchen. All I really had to do was clean. It's times like this that I wonder why I don't take time to clean like this more often! The sign went in the yard Tuesday...it's such a crazy time. Do we look at houses that we like when we don't know what will happen with our house? Our realtor is VERY positive. She has had lots of inquiries about our house already.

We have been living baseball for about a month, but since May 1 I think we might as well sleep at the ballpark, too. Tonight was actually our first night in two weeks without any practices or games! B has had 2 games and won them both. He is a different kid this year. Last year he had a poor attitude and refused to play unless his father was in the stands. This year, he hustles and even made a double play in the first inning of the first game. I just want him to get a hit now to build his confidence even more. Gman had his first game last night. I'm not crazy about his coach this year. He's not really good with the kids. When they do something wrong, he stands there and says, "what did I tell ya?" instead of going over and showing them how to do it. They won 18-2 and he told them they needed to play harder next time! I don't care if my child wins, just want him to learn something and show growth. I think I'm going to have to bite my tongue alot this season!

This is a long post, but I'll wrap up with some pictures for Discovery Depot, the children's museum in town. Mary and I snuck out with Cole Pickles, Reester, and Gman while the men did some work last weekend. We were even able to head to some shops and check out the farmer's market.

My Monkey and The Rookie Firefighters

Future waitress? Uh-Oh! They are ready to drive!

Happy Birthday, Reester Bunny!

2009-04-19T20:13:00.004-05:00

Quick photos from birthday party this afternoon....love the face that Reese (who turned 2) is making at the Big Guy(who happens to be her favorite this week)!

Happy Birthday, sweetie!

He is RISEN!

2009-04-12T20:25:00.004-05:00

I wanted to post about my Savior today. I wanted to tell everyone how grateful I am that he would die for me and tell about all the wonderous ways he has worked in my life..........

HOWEVER.......the puppetmaster dropped off the kids, stormed out the door, and then text me a threatening message. I am now saying the Serenity prayer over and over.

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; taking as he did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His will; that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him forever in the next. Amen. --Reinhold Niebuhr

I will not stoop to her level, but it is very difficult! A good friend once told me to feel blessed that the Lord finds me worthy of tests. I am grateful for all that he has given me and the tests are so much easier with him by my side!

I did enjoy a great day with my family. I had to say goodbye to my brother who heads to Texas tomorrow and then Iraq. I hope everyone feels the Lord working in their lives and had a blessed Easter with their loved ones!

Spoken like a true librarian...

2009-04-11T08:19:00.003-05:00

Have you read Twilight? If not, go get it now! I did not understand what all the craziness was about this summer when the fourth book came out. When the movie came out, shows were sold out. A friend lent me her copy at the beginning of spring break and now I understand.

Stephenie Meyer has written this book in a way that just leaves you hanging on, craving more (in fact, I sat and read the majority of this book for four hours straight). The sexual tension is so thick it's surprising because there is NO sex in this book. I found myself cheering for Bella and Edward early on in the plot.

Finished the book, thought I'd rent the movie. I was SOOOOOO disappointed and lost interested about 20 minutes into it. I hung in there and liked the drama and special effects at the end, but it doesn't do the book justice at all!

I can't wait to get my hands on New Moon!

Moral: Books will always be better than the movies!

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2009-04-09T12:24:00.004-05:00

Today is my wonderful mother's birthday! I won't give away her age, but she is absolutely my rock (next to my man that is). My mom is always there for me, whether it's to listen to me or babysit the boys for me. She has become an instant grandmother and excels at it beautifully. She came immediately to my house when she heard I lost the baby, but yet left as soon my man came home 10 minutes later to give us the space we needed. I probably talk to her five times a day. I laugh when she lives a mile away, but yet skypes me on the computer. Happy birthday, mom! We all love you!

Finally!!!

2009-04-07T22:47:00.002-05:00

It was an absolutely BEAUTIFUL day today! I woke up to my lil man playing in his room (quietly today, not banging things on the hardwood floor :) ) and the sunshine pouring in the windows. All the sunshine was a little deceiving because the wind had a bite to it (thus my boys wearing hats because I'm sick of the complaints about ears hurting), but the boys got to ride their bikes and play ball with Uncle Ryan. Payton even enjoyed a long walk. Definately a nice change from the snow that we had on Sunday! Is spring weather around the corner?

Contemporary Soap Opera...

2009-04-06T22:25:00.003-05:00

My man made fun of me of me tonight :(. I have been good about not complaining when he has poker on all night long. I even told him the other day that I didn't care what movie he had on because I was going to read my book, but when it comes to my show he complains and laughs. I had been looking forward to the season premiere of this show all day.

Let's face it, this is a soap opera for my generation complete with all the drama!

It reminds me alot of a college lifestyle. L.C. and crew seem to work when they want, study when they can, and party all the time! A lifestyle that is far from mine now...as I just uploaded my igoogle calendar and saw that I have baseball scheduled EVERY day for the next three months!

Busy Bee...Lots of Projects

2009-04-05T21:02:00.004-05:00

I feel that today has been successful! I came home from church with a mission, to get busy organizing this house!

After lunch, I started in on one closet upstairs. We have four closets that are the same size. They are very deep, but not useful because they follow the roof line of our house. I feel like I have made good use of the space in this one, but it always looks like a tornado has gone through it because of little man.

After two hours of sorting stuff, I felt like I had made good progress. I even made a crucial decision! I know that I'm never going to get caught up on the boys' scrapbooks. I started one of my relationship with my man before we moved in together, but then once I became an "instant" mommy I never got back to it. Don't get me wrong...I have saved every precious thing they have brought home from school and have a TON of pictures on my flash drive, but will never get them into albums! I decided I'm going to go get a box for each boy and just sort their stuff that way. It will still be special and I still want to do something with all the pictures, but this way I'll be more organized.

Next, I went through all of B's clothes. I had him honestly tell me if he liked each piece. The boy who always tells me that he has nothing to wear looked me in the eyes today and said, I just wear whatever is on top. Okay, then! I was able to get my hands on the clothes that I feel are way too big on him and put them in storage. We also tried on all his shorts to see what we need for the summer. Conclusion....this boy may have more clothes than me!

After dinner with my mom and brother, I came home and started in on the wallpaper in Gman's room. Here is the before picture.

This wallpaper looked cute with the green walls and wood floor when we moved in. However, I love to have the blinds open and the sun just pours in Gman's room most of the day, fading the border over time. I successfully took it off one wall without scratching any paint off!

Hopefully, tomorrow I can tackle two more closets and the rest of Gman's room. I'm hoping to send the boys outside sun or snow because spring break has just begun and they are already driving me crazy!

System failed....already!

2009-04-04T16:04:00.003-05:00

It didn't take long...nope, only three days into April and I already messed up my challenge to blog everyday in April! Can I make it up my blogging twice today? I really do have a good reason as to why I was absent yesterday.....a girls' night!

I haven't had a girls' night in FOREVER! Our schedule consists lately of running the boys here or there, meetings, schoolwork, and just plain exhaustion. We have, of course, gotten to hang out with friends lately with and without children, but it's been a long time since I've gotten a girls' night.

Some of the husbands went camping, so Tara invited everyone over to her new house to eat pizza, stamp, and just hang out. It was nice to just sit and relax, not worrying about the kids. I had to laugh when one girl (a hairstylist, but now a stay at home mommy) mentioned that she had her stuff with her if anyone wanted her to highlight their hair. Two girls took her up on it!

I enjoyed catching up on all the gossip, but I actually got some stamping done too! My wedding invitations were the last time that I really seriously stamped. That was a year ago! Let me know what you think of this. I'm considering making a mass quantity for my soon to be sister-in-law.

My Lil Bro...All Grown Up

2009-04-02T20:59:00.005-05:00

It hit me tonight like a ton of bricks!

My little brother is all grown up! Sigh...

He is home for two weeks. The day after Easter my mother will drive him home to Texas where she will help him pack up his apartment to put his belongings in storage. Yes, my brother deploys for Iraq in less than a month.

I'm sad, but I'm so proud! My annoying little brother who once sprayed bug spray in my eyes at the drug store has turned into an awesome little brother, a great uncle, and someone that I know I can always count on. There are times that I wish we were closer. We are not the kind to regularly chat on the phone or even say I love you. However, watching him tonight with my stepsons made me realize how much I miss having him around more. I know that the Lord is watching over him and will bring him home safe.

We salute you, little Brother!

Dare Me?

2009-04-01T20:43:00.002-05:00

So, I popped onto librarianapproved.blogspot.com yesterday and found the challenge....the challenge to blog everyday in April! Hmm...is my life that eventful? Probably could find some interesting story to write or better yet complain about. Does anybody care? Probably not, but it might benefit my husband so I'm not bending his ear for the first hour I get home every night.

Stay tuned....

Beware! Stepmom bragging!

2009-03-30T21:14:00.004-05:00

I have to say that I'm a pretty proud momma...make that stepmomma! B's artwork was on display at the public library this month. He's VERY talented and we would like to see him pursue this area. Of course, his music teacher just boosted his confidence by saying how quickly he picked up and how well he plays the recorder. She thinks we need to pursue that route....yikes, baseball has just begun so I think we'll wait until July to pursue these talents. Stepmomma can only handle one sport per child at the moment!

The Lucky One

2009-03-29T15:42:00.003-05:00

Have you read this book?

If not, then I suggest you do soon! I could not put it down once I started. The yucky weather this weekend was perfect for curling up on the couch with a blanket and getting lost in the world of Beth and Thibault. Beth has a very wicked ex-husband and Thibault is as mysterious, yet dreamy as they come. I even felt for Ben who despised going to spend time with his father. Maybe it's the fact that I love all of Nicholas Sparks' books or a simple coincidence that I wanted a distraction from my own drama with the puppetmaster, but regardless The Lucky One is a must read!

A day in my life...will it ever end?

2009-03-23T21:35:00.004-05:00

I've been absent for awhile and thought I'd let you all in on my schedule so you understand why.

5:30 Alarm goes off (hit snooze five or six times),
Get up and feed the dog and cats, eat breakfast, catch the weather on the six o'clock news.
6:15 Have to be in the shower by then or my man is not happy because he needs to shower and be out of the house by 7:15
6:45 Get B up and in the shower
7:00 Make sure Gman is up and getting dressed (not messing with the dog, cats, or anything else for that matter!)
Somewhere in here make sure everybody is ready to go out the door (including me!)
7:30 Head out the door to take boys to school, then head to my school
8:20-1:45 classes at one school
2:00 Head to the next school
3:30 Head to the boys' school to pick up Gman
4 or 4:30 Pick up B from tutoring
Evenings:
Homework, dinner, bath for Gman, walk dog, get my school work done, and clean up the house

I have been absolutely exhausted! I feel like the running never ends and to top it all off Gman has NOT been behaving. This sweet child has been cursing at school, being impulsive on the playground, and VERY disrespectful to his teacher. He told his teacher last week that if he acts up enough Dad and I would send him back to live with the puppetmaster. I don't think so, buddy! I have family reading night that I'm in charge of tomorrow night and have to work the book fair Thursday night. All I really wanna do is drink! I love baseball season, but can you imagine how much more that is going to add???!!!

I win, I win!

2009-03-15T20:21:00.003-05:00

I don't think my man reads this, so I have to rub this in!

First of all, I better explain how the weekend started. We had to throw another Friday the thirteenth in there for the second time this year, and for the second time this year the puppet master actually picked up the boys! This allowed my man to join me at the teacher's meeting (happy hour), but then of course we stayed longer than I intended! You see, I had a whole list of things to do to get ready for my Tastefully Simple show that was a whole day event on Saturday and I didn't get started on it until after 8pm. My man had invited people over to play poker on Saturday night before he was aware (or remembered because I had informed him!) of my event. I don't always play, but my friend had hired a sitter so she could come with her husband. Saturday was a good day, but a long one and I was tired by the time I got home and put my business stuff away. I like poker, but get bored quickly if I'm not getting good hands and didn't think I would last long. My stack kept getting smaller and smaller, but then I beat my hubby. He was so mad! I stayed in until the end and he even had to buy back in a couple of times!

I win, I win!!!

Guess she's over it....

2009-03-09T11:45:00.004-05:00

So I have a list of work to be doing right now, but checked my email instead. On the comcast sign in page under showbiz buzz, they have this headline: 'Bachelor' Star Dancing? Click this link to find out more: http://www.fancast.com/blogs/tv-news/rumor-has-it-dumped-bachelor-babe-dancing/?cmpid=FCST_buzz0309melissa

I wasn't planning on watching tonight, but I guess work will be put off again!

TGIF!!!!

2009-03-06T11:58:00.002-06:00

It's a gorgeous day outside! It's my plan time and I can hear the kids playing outside the library window....I might just leave for lunch and not come back! I have just thrown my 12th Dr. Seuss birthday party and have three more to go. I love my job, but it's Friday!!!!!!

Insomnia...

2009-03-05T22:44:00.003-06:00

It's a never ending story......

Got home late due to meeting after school...sit down to dinner..dog wouldn't cooperate on walk..friend stopped by the house...had to run to store...make dessert to take to friend's tomorrow night...dishes were calling my name...boys had to be bathed and put to bed...

...needless to say, I didn't sit down to work until almost 9!

Here it is almost 11 and I'm still sitting on the couch. However, instead of working I'm blogging! The timer just clicked the light next to me off and the dog is drooling on my lap as she snores quite loudly...think it's time to turn my mind off and head to bed. Definately easier said than done when timelines are drawing closer!

A new day!

2009-03-03T20:51:00.003-06:00

I've been absent for awhile and it was a rough week and a half! I'm not sure if I'm going to blog about all of it yet. My mind is in a place where I want to move forward and have life get back to normal. The ER visit this past weekend was a blessing (as stubborn as I was in fighting with my husband about going) and was a way to put things behind me.

I took yesterday off to get checked by the doctor and cleared to return to work. I knew that I needed to slow down today, but couldn't wait to get back. My friend Tierney made my day by sending me these! Wonderful friends make my day!

Can you tell I'm tired and a little sore? I forgot to turn the picture and I'm not going to mess with it!

Feelings...

2009-02-22T15:58:00.003-06:00

Do you ever have a feeling that you just need to do something? This morning started rough again. I have to admit I'm really struggling at not being angry. I'm ready for the week to start so that my mind is focused on other things. Anyhow...I didn't want to go home just quite yet. The week does get too busy and I feel guilty about not going to the nursing home to see my stepgrandfather. My man (who has been just awesome in the support department this week) said he didn't care if we all headed out there.

When we got there my stepgrandmother said he had been pretty restless and they had given him some morphine. I went over to talk to him and the boys followed with wide eyes. We talked to Betty awhile and then decided to leave. I was so proud of Gman when we left because he went over to hug Betty without being asked. He said he knew she needed it.

My Dad called a little bit ago and said that Kenny had passed. I'm so glad that I went there this morning and took the boys with me. I have so many feelings running through me at this time. My man and I had a faith discussion this morning and I want to just accept all that has happened as part of his plan that we will never understand. However, I'm angry about my miscarriage and the pain that Kenny had to endure. I'm sad that Kenny is no longer with us, but I'm at peace knowing he isn't suffering anymore. God is with me and he will get me through this if I just focus on him!

Here is a picture of Kenny just a few short months ago. One is one his 80th birthday with all of the great grandkids, and the other is at Christmas. He always made me feel part of the family and will be greatly missed!

Sweet dreams...

2009-02-21T08:46:00.002-06:00

As I was scanning blogs before bed last night, I came upon a post titled, "Trust Him for Tomorrow." I quickly clicked on it and read parts of the sermon that this couple had heard in their church last weekend. If I knew more how to give credit to this author, I would. I went to House of Rose and then to EJ &Roo. Anyhow, I read these five points and then went to bed peacefully after a very rough day. My day had gotten worse as I went to the nursing home to see my stepgrandfather. I hadn't been there in a week and was upset by how much he had changed since I was there last with my man. However, these words comforted me beyond measure as I prayed for peace.

1. We WILL face challenges. Sometimes God asks us to endure challenges to get us to a place where he can do future things.
2. We WILL make mistakes.
3. Our work for God will outlive us.
4. God does not always work according to our timeline. We must obey him today and trust him for tomorrow.
5. We will have to make sacrifices. Sometimes God asks us to sacrifice the things we love because he has a plan for us that we'll love more.

Rough Day...

2009-02-20T11:22:00.003-06:00

I'm sitting here at school having a rough day. I woke up Wednesday with an overwhelming calm feeling. My faith in God and knowing he does have a plan for me is helping. I think it's also the fact that nothing is really happening yet. I'm not having any bleeding or discharge. I knew a day would come soon when I would break down. Everyone has shared their stories or wishes for me and it's been eye opening as to how common miscarriages really are. I went to school yesterday and was able to talk to others. I felt like I handled myself well.

I hope today is not that day that I break, though. The morning started rough with B in a crabby mood. My man took care of him, but he leaves before we do. B held it together until I dropped him off at school. I just looked at him and said we would deal with it when we got home. I came to my school and was confronted (by a friendly face) and right away I thought I would start crying. My job is providing a distraction (how can 75 giggly first graders not do that?), but it's the quiet times that are hard. Not many people knew at this school, but now I'm headed to a school where everyone knows. I just don't like all the awkwardness...

I just don't know if I can handle the waiting....I may have to call Monday and book the surgery.

More drama...

2009-02-17T18:51:00.002-06:00

I really hated to title this blog entry that way, but my man and I never get things right the first time. We broke up for two months before making it work, screwed up not going to a lawyer when we first had the boys, it took two lawyers to get the custody thing done, etc. Today I was devastated to see my baby on the sonogram and have the doctor tell me that it didn't have a heartbeat. I had miscarried....

My man immediately came home more upset than I expected him too. He's supposed to be my rock, not a crumbling mess! I was worried about telling the boys. I wanted to wait awhile on telling them I was pregnant to begin with, but they are old enough to figure out something was going on, so we told them about three weeks ago. Well, they are also old enough to figure out something had happened today before we could tell them. It's hard to sit there and tell them that the doctor didn't know what happened and that I did nothing wrong when I have so many questions. I believe that God has a plan and know I'm not supposed to question why, so I'm just praying that he'll send understanding my way in his time.

I think I'm staying home tomorrow. I can't deal with the decision on whether to wait until the baby passes or have a DNC yet. I have to get another blood test to determine my blood type and make sure that I'm not RH negative anyways. Thanks for all the prayers that have already been sent my way!

I HATE MUD!!!

2009-02-09T19:47:00.003-06:00

One of my new year's resolutions was to clean my house on a more regular basis...boy have I made good on that one in the last four days! It's all due to this big baby of mine. Let me introduce Payton. I love her dearly, but would someone like to take her until this thaw is over? I even pulled out the vaccuum before school this morning!

Best wishes.....& prayers

2009-02-04T20:35:00.002-06:00

So I said I would post about my stepbrother's wedding and things have just been crazy. It was a BEAUTIFUL, yet simple wedding. They were married at Luthy Botanical Gardens in Peoria. My husband commented to my grandmother that he was overwhelmed by my big family at first, especially since I'm so close to my stepfamily. I don't often refer to my stepbrothers as that, they are my brothers. I'm so excited to call Jill my sister in law! Here are a few pics from the gorgeous day.

Also, those of you who are close to me know that my stepmom's father (my stepgrandfather) is in the hospital and not doing well. I felt well enough to run to the hospital last night and the emotions from losing my grandmother a year ago came rushing back. I just want to make everything better for him. Please keep him in your prayers!

Big news!

2009-01-31T21:11:00.002-06:00

I guess it's safe to say that the cat is out of the bag! We had a big surprise a few weeks ago and found out we are expecting! I was weary about putting the news out there at first because I wanted to make sure things were going to be okay. However, I guess the more people that know means there are that many more people praying for us!

It's been a rollar coaster the last few weeks! The boys were actually here the weekend I decided to take a test. Luckily, I found a few minutes where no one would barge into the bathroom. The second line was faint, but it was there! I ran upstairs and asked my man what we were going to do. He just smiled. I took another one the next morning first thing. It was the same faint second line. I decided to go get the test that said yes or no. My man insisted on being in the bathroom, but I was able to kick him out while I at least peed on the stick! He stood there holding it and a full minute hadn't gone by before he said, "yep!" I was in shock! I do have to admit that I took the fourth test the next morning...just to see.

On Monday, I called my doctor because since I stopped taking my medicine, my asthma had fired up. I went in to see her and she assured me that my meds were ok. She sent me the blood test and urine test results in the mail with a note attached, "Yep, very pregnant!" Judging by the first day of my last cycle, I thought I was about six weeks along. I started freaking out! I'm not much of a drinker, but I probably drank more in December than in the last two years combined! Everyone says not to worry, but I think my stress level just kicked into overdrive!

I had to wait three weeks until I could get into my new OB/Gyn. We ended up telling the boys because they were worried why I had to get a blood test. Some teachers had taken it upon themselves to discuss it at school and I really didn't want the boys to overhear it from them, either. They were not excited at first and I truly think they are more worried than anything. Things went downhill with the puppet master when she had her last child and that is when we took the boys in with us. Gman has told everyone at school that he is very excited, and B asks lots of questions. They want a girl, I just want healthy!

I was able to go to the doctor yesterday and was a little disappointed. I thought that I was maybe nine weeks along and would get my first sonogram picture. The midwife saw the sac and yolk sac. She said everything looks good, but she thinks I'm just six weeks along. I go back in two weeks.

The symptoms went into overdrive this week! I'm so tired and the nausea kicked in Tuesday. By the time we get home, get through homework and dinner, I'm beat. I realized Friday at about 3 o'clock that I missed a meeting at church Wednesday night! Today was my stepbrother's wedding though, and I really felt pretty good. My man laughed at me as I struggled to stay away on the way to Peoria, and I only felt slightly sick while waiting on pictures. It was a gorgeous wedding, but that will be tomorrow's post....

I promise to post more often. They will also be shorter in length! :)

Shhh...

2009-01-20T21:22:00.002-06:00

So I got a message last night that someone was bored because there was nothing new to read on my blog. I have to apologize, I wasn't aware there were people actually reading my blog! The reason for my absense is because I have a secret....and I'm not good at keeping secrets. Plus, I've been exhausted! I asked my man last night how I was going to make it through Grey's and Private Practice on Thursday at the rate I'm going! I really do have lots of things I should be doing right now, like school work or getting my Tastefully Simple paperwork together for my man to get our taxes done....

Felt really weird being back to school today after six days off! Like I said, bring on the snow days! It was rewarding to see some students realize the impact on history that today had. Maybe some will actually remember me when they think back to where they were when watching the first black President take his oath...

Good night!

Bring on the snow days!

2009-01-14T08:40:00.003-06:00

Okay, so I know that a few days ago I was dreaming of days by my pool and wanting warmer weather. However, whoohoo, it's a snow day! Those of you who know me well, know that I didn't want any snow days last year because my wedding was planned for the weekend that school was supposed to be over with. That school year started off not so great with a horrible straight line wind storm that caused lots of damage the first day of school. So, we started the year with school being cancelled the first full day! Luckily we only had one more and I was done with school at noon on the day of my rehearsal.

So, this year, bring on the snow days! I didn't end up procrastinating all night yesterday. I did get grades done for 11 out of my 24 classes. Since we're home today, I can finish the rest and start on my new book that a dear friend knew I would need!

Procrastination

2009-01-13T18:53:00.002-06:00

I love procrastinating... until it catches up with me! I'm sitting here on the computer when I should be figuring grades for close to 600 students. My house is empty. Gman had basketball practice (Lord, please take some of his energy!) and B decided to tag along with his dad since he didn't have any privledges. I should be taking advantage of this and be getting lots of stuff done. Nope...think I hear a warm bath calling my name!

Bring on warmer weather!

2009-01-11T19:21:00.002-06:00

I am SO ready for warmer weather. I am tired of the cold and the wet stuff. I'm dreaming of those summer days and nights spent in my pool! Enough said....bring on warmer weather!

Busy, Busy!

2009-01-10T21:42:00.002-06:00

Where did that week go? When I think about it, I'm not sure where today went...seems like I just got up and I'm ready to crash! Day started with little Gman pulling a tooth out while I was in the shower. My man came in saying he had blood all over his face. He hasn't lost very many, which I'm told is a good thing. Gman had his first basketball game today. He did very well, but was a little hesitant. He has never played basketball on a team before. They do not keep score, though, and let the coaches out on the floor with them. After that, he had a birthday party to go to for the girl in his class that he has a crush on. It was cute. He really didn't want me around at all. B slumped most of the day. He was dragged to his lil brother's game for starters. The puppet master showed up, but I noticed that B didn't really talk to her after the initial hello. He stood with her boyfriend and her, but not much interacting. I am sad for him! B had a great week at school and was told he could call a friend over. He tried to get ahold of someone last night, but his message was never returned. Oh, the drama of a fourth grader! We had an event at church tonight. More people came than last month, but still not many. I would love to find a good christian group. We wore pajamas because it was a movie night/pajama party and I'm ready to crash! Good night all!

Quiet time...

2009-01-07T21:01:00.002-06:00

My house has suddenly fallen silent. The boys are in bed, my man is glued to a video game, and the cats and dog have decided to leave each other alone...finally! Silence in a busy house is overwhelming. It provides time to reflect, sometimes on things I don't want to reflect on.

I realized this morning that although I say I really feel like I am becoming my mother, I'm no where near as patient as she ever was. I don't ever remember her yelling like I seem to do. Maybe I'm like my father, too. THAT'S SCARY!!! It's just mornings and evenings with an ADHD son can be too much to handle sometimes. Add in an attitude son and it gets worse. I don't know how many times I repeated directions this morning or any morning for that matter...

I had to call my wonderful mother (who surprised my family with cookies mysteriously appearing in our house today) after school who always listens to me vent about work. She is a recently retired teacher and understands my pain. Today, I unintentionally caused drama for another librarian by explaining the school catalog system to one entire school. The lady who used to hold my co-worker's position got a little nasty with her. However, my principal told me that I'm doing more than my fair share of work for the program that the teachers at that school were whining about earlier this week. I guess we have to take the good with the ugly...

As, I write this I'm seriously missing my girls. Life has changed so much in four years! Some of us are married with families, some have moved away (T if you are reading this, move back!), some are pursuing master's degrees (which I know is very time consuming...how am I going to go back for my second with the boys here full time?!), and others are involved in everything under the sun (even live around the corner, but I never see)! I miss our Bachelor nights and dates at InnKeepers. Painting while drinking a bottle of wine at midnight is always fun. I love my husband and all, but sometimes a girl just needs her friends!

Okay, the quiet is getting to me...time to turn on the music and get some grading done!

So much for work....

2009-01-03T13:34:00.003-06:00

I had a plan today do get caught up on my grades and plan an event for church next weekend. The boys are with the puppet master for the weekend, so my house is unusually quiet. Except for my man! I asked him to fix the toilet today. I should have known better! I didn't get out of the house in time! For those of you who are not familiar with our house, nothing is ever easy! I love my man, but he is sometimes just like my father...not pleasant to be around when he is being Mr. Fix-it. I'm going to try to disappear to my mother's to at least take a shower and print out the flyers for church because my man has poker planned tonight and I have to get something done. We'll see...

Here is a picture of my man and I watching all the kiddos play Wii on New Year's Eve at our friend's house.

Happy New Year's

2008-12-31T16:26:00.002-06:00

My man just walked in the door and we will be headed to a friend's as soon as he finishes preparing his hot wings. I am truly blessed when I think of all that God has given me in 2008 and cannot wait to see what the new year brings. Happy New Year's from my family to yours!

Busy Day!

2008-12-31T08:52:00.006-06:00

Yesterday was a crazy day! We started off early and it made me wonder how we are going to get back in routine next Monday. B had an eye appointment and needs glasses. I can't wait for the battles to come to make him wear them! We made it out of there in 40 minutes and I thought that was enough time to make cookies before we went to a friend's for lunch. Wrong! The dog was trying to eat the cookies off the tray while I wasn't looking. She succeeded in one before I caught her. In the kennel, she went and off we went to Tanya's house. There we found Katie and Amber already. Tanya's great husband made us lunch and the boys played with Tanya's little one. It was so nice to just relax with friends! Here are Gman's attempts at photographing.....The first picture is his first attempt. Not too bad, but too much light. We tried a couple more in a different corner. Here is one when I zoomed in before I gave him the camera and told him to get just our faces. I guess I have to be careful with the instructions I give Gman. B wanted to try and we got one in before the batteries died on me. A little blurry, but not too bad. (I can't figure out why my pictures are all going to the top and not where I want them! Sorry if it is confusing!)

We stopped by my mom's to see my brother because the boys were starting to get restless. Bad idea! He got Gman all wound up! We left just in time for B's attitude to come back from the morning, but my man walked in the door to save my day!!!

For dinner, we met my MomPack friends at Happy Joe's for dinner. It was nice to see everyone's families and relax instead of talking about business that we had planned. Of course, it didn't go as well as I would have liked. B's manners (liking fingers at the salad bar and putting his nose in dishes to smell them) led to attitude when we tried to correct him and I really thought my man was going to blow his top.

What a day!

Marley & Me

2008-12-29T22:57:00.003-06:00

The boys and I went to see Marley & Me with my mom and brother today! Great movie! Not so sure Gman understood what was going on in certain parts, but he laughed at Marley. I was sobbing when I left.

This topic is very close to my heart, as I had to put my first dog, Blossom, down last March. I came home and she was in terrible pain. I knew it had been coming, just didn't want to do it. My man wasn't home, which was probably best because I would have debated too long and/or decided to wait until the next day. Didn't sleep much that night, but crashed the following even deciding to turn my cell phone off. My grandmother passed away that night, and mom couldn't get ahold of me. Gman said to me the next morning when I explained what had happened (okay, crying as I type this) that Grandma Eileen is walking Blossom. Out of the mouths of babes!

Just make sure you take kleenex to the movie! It's good!

Our story...

2008-12-29T22:30:00.003-06:00

So everyone is sleeping in my house, including the animals, but not me. Not sleepy...what am I going to do next week when break is over? Thought since the computer was free, I'd tell our story...

My man and I met four years ago after I had a dream about him. Now I know you're thinking, whoa, dream up the perfect guy??? We had a mutual friend, Jon. He saw my friend Amber and I out one night and decided to lecture me on the guys I had been "dating". Jon kept mentioning my man and how was making the same mistakes I was. Well, that night I had a dream that Amber and Jon tried to hook us up (you should know now that I have lots of dreams and random parts do come true periodically). Long story made short...I told Amber, who told Jon, who told my man. Thus, we met and started dating.

My man told me he had been hurt too much. He was never going to tell another girl he loved her, get married, and he was done having kids. Two months later he said I love you. Shortly thereafter, we were talking about the future. What if we were to live together? We both kinda freaked (me more so when he suddenly became distant) and he broke up with me after dating for six months. He dated someone else right away and I took time to be independent. It was a good summer for me. I needed to know that I could be by myself and be happy with it.

Two months later, we got back together. After nine months, we decided to buy a house together. As soon as we put in an offer, his ex-wife, the puppet master asked him to take custody of his kids because she couldn't handle them. Whoa! Moving in together and now the kids! Lots of adjustments, but we made it work. We gave her two months to decide if this is what she wanted and she said yes. My man and I got engaged in February of 2007 and things were going great. We were a family. In July the puppet master lost her job, got angry at us for saying no to her for the first time when she wanted the boys because we already had plans, and demanded them back. This was devastating! There was nothing we could do because we hadn't gone to court to change the custody due to money and she insisted this was what she wanted!

My man and I didn't know how to be just us. We had only known how to be us with raising the boys. Lots of adjusting, but it made us stronger and we had a wedding to plan.

We got married in May of 2008, with bombs being dropped soon after. My man left his job because he didn't agree with his boss and the puppet master decided once again that she didn't want custody of the boys. God works in mysterious ways because if my man had been working, we wouldn't have been able to take the boys because I was working, too. Who finds daycare last second? We learned from past mistakes and went to see a lawyer. Of course, this lawyer did nothing for us! My man started his new job in August and he loves the people he works with. We waited three months and then went to a second lawyer. He had the whole thing done in four weeks! The puppet master signed off and really only gets the boys every other weekend. We're a blended family that has ups and downs, but I know we're solid as a rock after all the challenges we've been through in the last four years. We're in the process of finding a counselor for the boys. Anybody that has any advice on how to be a stepmom that actually has to do all the things a mom should do, please feel free to comment!