blah...blah

Hot lips

2012-02-04T17:23:00.000-08:00

The boys love to sing, dance and whistle. Tonight they got a new Kids Bop CD from Nana and Papaw so they are entertaining me with their skills. The picture above is them whistling. Nathan is really good, Brandon is still learning. His lips kinda get in the way.

Oh my goodness

2012-01-24T15:49:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when I let my dad "watch" the kids. All I wanted was to look at jewelry with my mom. Just a little quiet time. What I got was a picture sent to me of my oldest modeling a bra.
Look at the smile. He has so much fun with Papaw. Even if they are up to no good.

The big 5

2012-01-23T18:09:00.000-08:00

Those eyes melt my heart. His giggle tickles my soul. And when he holds my hand and smiles I become putty in his hands.
He's wild and loud. Rotten to the core and drives me absolutely crazy sometimes.
But I wouldn't change a single thing.
Happy birthday little buddy. I love you so, so much!

Samson

2012-01-17T18:15:00.000-08:00

This is Samson.
He loves bananas, the boys, sticks, my mom, kissing and nibbling ears, butt rubs, his bed and chasing after the boys in the back yard.
He doesn't like fireworks, thunder, his toes touched or anyone messing with the boys.
He isn't very brave but makes sure he knows where the boys are at all times.
He has squishy jaws that I love to knead, big brown eyes that melt my heart and heavy paws that step on my toes.
He drools... a lot.
He can't do many tricks but he will moo at you if he feels like you are not giving him the attention he deserves.
Samson is a very important member of our family.
He loves all of us in his own way. Brian is his daddy and Samson is so excited to see him every night when he comes home from work. I am his mommy and if I'm in the room he lays at my feet. Nathan is his big brother and he looks at him in awe. Brandon is his buddy/play mate and they have such a good time together. (Brandon tells Samson all his secrets/accomplishment/dreams)
He is our 100lb puppy that thinks he's a lap dog.
We love our Sam.

The best helpers in all the land

2012-01-16T15:14:00.000-08:00

Since I had my foot surgery these two little boys have been my huge helpers. They make sure my ice packs are cold, my pillows fluffy, my water bottle full and that I get enough kisses so my foot will heal quickly. And they haven't complained once. They are such wonderful little men and I love them so very much! They're pretty cute too.

My Dad by Nathan

2012-01-14T10:50:00.000-08:00

My Dad

Have you ever met my dad, Brian? My dad is really fun, he plays with me. My dad is funny, he acts goofy sometimes like Thing One and Thing Two and he also tells jokes. My dad also listens when I ask questions and he loves me and I love him.

In school this week Nathan had to write about someone who makes him feel important.

...it made me cry. The greatest feeling in the world is knowing that you child knows and feels that you love them more than anything else is this world.

wow...

2012-01-09T14:52:00.000-08:00

Since the last time I wrote we have celebrated a birthday, Christmas, New Years, went back to school and I had foot surgery.
Nathan turned 9 yrs old and couldn't be happier. We had some family over, ate pizza, played video games and teased Nathan with those magic candles that are really hard to blow out. That was so funny, he got so frustrated. Then Christmas rolled around a couple of days later. We got to spend a lot of time with family and the boys once again got way to many toys! They were pretty happy though. On New Years we spent the day counting down the hours until the ball dropped. We let the kids stay up and watch Dick Clark count down until the New Year arrived. Brandon thought that was pretty cool but two minutes later was ready to go to bed.
Nathan is back in school now. My little smarty pants got his report card the other day and is getting straight A's! He is really loving school this year. He has an amazing teacher and just soaks up everything like a sponge.
Friday I had foot surgery to have part of a bone removed. The boys have been taking great care of me. Brian has dish pan hands though and isn't liking that too much! :)
Next on our list to celebrate is Brandon's birthday. He'll be 5 yrs old later this month which means he'll be old enough to start school this fall. He cannot wait!

Are you ready?

2011-12-05T15:30:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for Christmas? The boys sure are. They decorated our tree, made snow globes, put the lights on our ceramic tree my grandma gave me and helped set up their stockings. They've written letters to Santa and made sure we have all the ingredients for cookies and reindeer treats. Now we just have to wait. Dang, that's a hard thing to do when you're little and full of excitement.

Word Thief

2011-11-22T09:35:00.000-08:00

Brandon has a hard time remembering his manners. He's four, he's loud, he wants everything his way and now! But for the most part he does really well remembering his please and thank you's and now raising his hand during story time at the library. Story time is his absolute favorite week day activity. What's not to love, stories told by wonderfully funny ladies, a movie, a craft and usually a little treat. It's heaven for my little man.

Last night was a special story time about Thanksgiving and the Berenstain Bears. During the story the librarian would ask questions "what do you think is making that noise? what is papa bears shirt color? who do you think won the contest?" And every time Brandon would raise his little hand as high as it could reach. Some times he knew the answer, some times he just wanted to comment on something totally not related to the story. It's always a little scary when he gets called on because you just never know what is going to come out of his mouth. Well, some of the other kids started blurting out the answers without raising their hands and waiting to be called on. This frustrated Brandon beyond belief. He wrinkled up his little nose, pushed out his lips and came stomping to the back of the room to me. "Mommy! Those kids are stealing my words!" And you know he wasn't quiet. Most of the other moms started laughing with me, a few (I'm assuming the mom's of the kids that were not raising their hands) looked the other way and pretended not to hear him even though I know it's not possible to not hear my son when he's frustrated!

I love that little guy. He cracks me up!

Crap the kids say...

2011-11-15T14:43:00.000-08:00

Mommy...I'm eating bubba's nuts.

Hiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii.

Do I move like Jagger?

Liar, liar, fire pants.

Why is my poop green?

Mom, where did I put my handcuffs and bullet? (FYI they're toys)

I'm a worm today.

Did you hear dat funder?

There's never a dull moment in our house. The boys make sure of that!

Candy overload

2011-11-05T09:49:00.000-07:00

I'm a few days late, but here's our Halloween pictures. The boys had a great time of course. Brandon decided at the last minute to be a police officer like daddy. It's a good thing we have extra handcuffs and holsters just laying around the house! : )

Nathan was a punk rocker of some sort. The make up and ear rings were just a little too much for me to handle, but for one night I let it slide. Now they are enjoying all their candy. Suckers, chocolate, bubblegum, taffy. Sweet success!

They are already coming up with new costume ideas for next year in the hopes of getting even more candy.

Flying high

2011-10-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

Nathan's fall break fell on Auna's birthday this year so we packed our bags, caught a plane and surprised our favorite 16 year old cousin/niece. Brandon was super excited because this was his first time on a plane. He loved everything about flying, the turbulence, visiting the pilots in the cockpit, and the snacks with apple juice. So much fun for the little man. Nathan was excited that our layover was in Washington DC. We flew over the pentagon and Arlington cemetery. And we saw the presidential helicopter fly by. Totally awesome according the Nathan.
The boys actually had no idea we were headed to see Rick and Auna. They finally figured it out once the saw Rick waiting for us when we landed. They were beyond excited.
While we were out there we got to see Auna play soccer, had an amazing birthday cookout, and hung out. It was nice and relaxing. The boys hated to leave their Auna and uncle Rick but we finally made it home. No matter how long we visit with family it never seems like enough time.

Picking pumpkins

2011-10-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

It's pumpkin picking time! We love picking out our pumpkins for the front porch. It's always so much fun inspecting every single pumpkin to find just the right one. And every year it's such a hard decision. Should we get a green one, white one, red one or orange one? Should we get one that has bumps all over it or a smooth one? And I always get asked why we can't get the 500lb pumpkin that cost more that our house payment.

They finally decided to choose the coolest two pumpkins ever. We hauled them home, posed for pictures and proudly displayed them on the front porch for everyone to see.

Fall Colors

2011-10-09T14:22:00.000-07:00

We love our tree in our front yard. It seems like every day in the fall the colors change. Just last week it was completely green. This week it is green, yellow, orange and red. In a few days it will be completely orange. And then a few days after that we'll be raking up the leaves and jumping in.

Big day

2011-10-05T11:15:00.000-07:00

Today Brandon and I had lunch with Nathan at school. Brandon packed his own Thomas the Train lunch box full of yummy food, asked me every 5 minutes if it was time to go, brushed his hair twice and literally vibrated with excitement.

We ate, talked, and giggled as Nathan pointed out all his friends. The boys got a lot of compliments on their healthy lunches as the other moms asked their kids why they don't eat broccoli and bell peppers for lunch too.

Once we were done Nathan went off to learn and play. Brandon and I came home to learn and play too. He learned how to tie his shoes today. ''Now'' he said ''I'm a big boy like bubba!''

October

2011-10-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

It's October. That means Halloween is just around the corner. And that means the house if full of wild imagination. Thoughts of costumes and candy are front and center.

I tried to talk the kids into being Popeye and Brutus or Alfalfa and Spanky but they wouldn't do it. I don't understand why they don't think my ideas are as awesome as I think they are! Geez.

Flea shots

2011-09-29T17:26:00.000-07:00

As I was speaking to the kids Dr's office about making an appointment for their flu shots, Brandon starts yelling "I don't want a flea shot!"

Flea's...flu bug...I guess it's all the same to a 4yr old.

Proud Mama

2011-09-17T09:25:00.000-07:00

Look at that sweet face. His soul is just as sweet if not sweeter and I am so proud of him.
This is the second week in a row that he hasn't gotten any marks for talking in class (he has lots to say about lots of things) and he got all A's on his midterm report card. But I believe the thing I'm most proud of is he received three compliments from his fellow classmates. One was about being a good sport when playing games, another one thanked him for helping his friend run from the girls and being so awesome and the last one made my heart swell with pride. One of the girls in his class thanked Nathan for playing with her when no one else would.
I can't begin to tell you how that makes me feel. Nathan has always been a sweet little man but knowing that he's still like that out in the world without me reminding him to behave a certain way, makes me want to do the happy dance.

Lazy Day

2011-09-14T16:03:00.000-07:00

Today Brandon stayed on the couch all day long.
He turned his blanket into a fort and all sorts of toys, books and my "music box" (MP3 player) were his entertainment. He watched cartoons from under the fort and tried to sneak some snacks in there too. He laughed and giggled the entire day.
It was a fun and lazy day for my little man.

Treasures from Grandmom and Pop-pop's

2011-09-06T16:20:00.000-07:00

A trip to grandmom and pop-pop's house is always an adventure. There's places to run and hide, golf carts to ride and treasures to find.

This last trip yielded Geo's. The boys have never seen these before, so they were extremely excited to see what surprise was inside for them to discover.

They hunted and dug up 8 nice size Geo's, cleaned them up and hammered away. Once the first one cracked opened there was no stopping them. The crystals inside the rocks just amazed them. Showing off how strong they are was just an added bonus.

Once they smashed them all open we decided to show them off for the world to see. So we decorated our front porch with our newly acquired treasures from grandmom and pop-pop's house.

Taking the plunge

2011-09-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

It's hotter than snot here today. Here's a few pictures to cool you off.

Fishin' Trip

2011-09-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we took the boys for a picnic and their first ever fishing trip. They absolutely loved it. Once papaw got their hooks baited, they learned the art of casting their lines.

Nathan was proud as a peacock once he got the hang of it. He could cast it out just as far as I did.

Brandon really surprised all of us. He actually sat still. For longer than a minute! He loved casting out his own line and reeling it back in, over and over again.

The boys didn't catch anything but they had a great time and can't wait to go again.

After our fishing expedition we played at the playground for a little while, went to Dairy Queen for a refreshing treat and took a dip in the pool. It was a great, great day!

And that right there is how to gross out two little boys.

Bedtime Stories

2011-08-26T09:28:00.001-07:00

Nathan has started reading to Brandon at bedtime. It's so cute. They pile into bed, pick out a good book and read until it's time to go to sleep. I love listening to them laugh and giggle at the story. It's so nice seeing them like this...quiet, sweet and not trying to kill each other.

Sweet dreams!

Aaaannnddd we're back

2011-08-23T16:51:00.000-07:00

Sorry for our absence. We've been having fun playing around this summer. But now we are getting back to our regular scheduled program.

This summer we ate our way around the state fair, the boys rode tons of rides and I was burnt to a crisp.

Uncle Rick came to visit. He is one of their most favorite people in the whole wide world.

Nathan started 3rd grade. He use to let me dress him up in a cute "1st day of school" outfit but now he has to pick out his own clothes since he's practically a man now. Just look at that shirt. It has a roll of toilet paper on it. "This is how I roll." My heart hurts.

Then I look at this picture and still see my goofy little boys, making mustaches from monkey tails. They make me smile.

p.s. are you happy now daddy?

Hot days

2011-07-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

It's been hot! Like hot, hot. And humid. Like super hair frizzy humid! The boys have been staying cool though. Fudge pops and beach ball sprinkler cool. Plus we've taken refuge at our ice cold library for story time. It's like an igloo. Today the humidity has dropped a little so we'll be playing outside this evening. Samson is even going to play in the sprinkler with the boys. I don't know who enjoys the sprinkler more, the boys or the dog.

Through thick and thin

2011-06-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

Brandon and Samson are great buddies. They play together, roll around on the floor together, chase each other in the back yard and have great conversations. And when Brandon gets in trouble for saying a bad word, Samson will sit by him during the punishment.

That's a good friend!

Happy Birthday Nana!

2011-06-16T07:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Nana! We love you so much!

We love when you snuggle with us... and when you make silly faces like this...

Samson loves you too, especially when you let him give you a bath in kisses!

You're the best Nana ever! We hope you have a great birthday.

2011-06-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

I love having kids. I love that they love us back even when we do this to them.

I just hope they still love us when we show these pictures to their first girlfriend. Or maybe when we turn these pictures into invitations for their 16th birthday party. Or when they see this post!

It's so much fun having kids to mess with.

summer break

2011-05-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Nathan on the first day of 2nd grade. He was so excited to see his friends again, meet his new teacher and explore the new play ground.

And this is the last day of 2nd grade. He finish the year with all A's, a new love for reading and couldn't wait to sleep in all summer long.

Brandon is excited to have Nathan home all day long. He loves his big brother! Well, half of the day is full of love and the other have is full of fighting. ; )

The class clown

2011-04-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

What do you call a B that says Boo?

Boobies!

That is what my 2nd grade son told a classmate today at school. Needless to say he got 5minutes taken away from recess and a lecture about how that was inappropriate and I got an email from his teacher. She wrote to me that even though his joke was funny it was inappropriate. To which I apologized and blamed his father!

Cowboy B

2011-03-23T16:50:00.000-07:00

Long john's, cowboy boots and a huge smile.
Letting Brandon dress however he wants makes him super happy.
He just doesn't realize I let him dress this way because he wasn't getting out of the van.

: )

Book worms

2011-03-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

Blue Ribbon

2011-02-26T18:02:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time there was a little boy who wanted to enter his schools science fair. He had huge dreams of building spewing volcano's or squishy quick sand or possibly sending something into orbit. But when his mommy told him he wasn't allowed to do those things (per school science fair rules) he set his sights on bubble gum. He wanted to know which bubble gum would blow the biggest bubbles. So off he went to the store and purchased three types of bubble gum and art supplies. Double Bubble, Bazoka and Hubba Bubba were the test subjects. His hypothesis: Hubba Bubba would blow the biggest bubble since it was so soft and easiest to blow bubbles with. His beautiful assistant (aka mommy) took pictures and measured the bubbles he blew, then he recorded all the data. This little boy worked really hard making sure his presentation board was just right with all his research, pictures and data. He took his experiment to school to be judged with all the other kids' experiments and explained how Hubba Bubba was the one that blew the biggest bubbles. And wouldn't you know, that little boy won first place in the science fair! His mommy (aka the beautiful assistant) hung his blue ribbon on the refrigerator where all things important are displayed.

I smell like a Mexican wildflower...

2011-02-15T18:52:00.000-08:00

Don't tell anyone but Brian is a romantic at heart. Yesterday, for Valentine's day, he bought me some perfume. But it isn't just any perfume.
13 years ago when we were dating he took me to Cancun Mexico. While we were there I fell in love with some perfume that is made only there. It's made with local flowers and plants and smells so clean and fresh with light floral notes. It's my favorite. We traveled back to Cancun a couple more times and every time we would buy a bottle. I would wear it sparingly trying to make it last as long as possible.
Brian looked all over the internet and finally found where he could buy it and had it shipped here yesterday. He got me the shower gel, lotion and a sample of all their perfumes including the one I love.
It makes me day dream of walking the beach, drinking margaritas and listening to the waves at night. Then I get shot in the back with nerf guns by two little monkeys and get brought right back to reality.
At least I smell good!

Police Jokes

2011-02-09T16:07:00.000-08:00

Why did the police officer cross the road?

To get to Dunkin Donuts!

It's even funnier that Nathan made that joke up! And he's only 8 years old! Hee hee!
And what's even funnier than that is hearing Brandon say the joke.

Why did the peath offither cross the rooooooaaad?

To get to duunkaan donuths.

Kids are so funny.

The day that never seemed to end

2011-02-02T15:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was an emotional, icy, cold, long and horrible no good day.
Yesterday sucked.
Yesterday started at 5:45am and didn't end until 12:30am.
5:45am Alarm goes off. I snuggle with Brian as he moans "I don't want to go today."
5:50am Alarm goes off again. I get up and start the coffee. Brian lays in bed, wide eyed dreading whats about to happen.
6:00am Brian gets out of bed and meets me in the kitchen. He eats a little breakfast while I get his lunch ready and packed.
615am Brian starts getting ready while I go out and scrape what seems like 10" of ice off of his police car. It was really only 1/4" of ice but it sure seemed like a lot more!
6:30am Brian comes out to help me finish scraping ice off the car and the side walk.
7:00am Brian is in his uniform. Today he has to wear a tie and a black ribbon across his badge.
7:30am I kiss Brian good-bye as he leaves for the day. The whole day.
7:35am I make a cup of coffee, grab a book and head back to our warm bed. I read and sip my coffee then turn the news on for an update on the ice storm.
8:00am Brandon runs to my room and jumps in bed with me. We snuggle and watch Tom and Jerry chase each other.
9:00am Brandon decides that he's finally starving and needs breakfast right now! Chocolate milk, waffle and banana are one the menu today.
9:30am Nathan gets up and eats breakfast right away. He must have slept really well, his hair is crazy!
9:45am Nathan is super excited that there is no school today because of the ice storm. After he eats, him and Brandon pick out a movie to watch. Curled up on the couch with their blankets wrapped around them, they're ready to giggle for the next 2hrs. I grab the computer and my head phones.
9:55am I grab the Kleenex and position myself so the kids can't see the screen or my face.
10:00am It starts. The funeral for fallen Officer David Moore. David Moore died on Jan 26th after being shot multiple times. He was 29yrs old . He and Brian were in the same recruit class.
10:30am The tears start rolling. I scan the crowd for Brian but don't see him. I'd do anything to be there with him but thankful I'm not. I would love to sit next to him and hold his hand but glad he doesn't see me fall apart. The fears that I push to the back of my mind are front and center today. Today really, really sucks.
11:30am The kids' movie is almost done. I get up and get another activity ready for them. Play dough always keeps them busy and entertained.
11:40am I go back to the computer and watch as people speak about David. He was a great officer. Someone told the family that if the sun shines on the day of your funeral you were a good man, if it rains on the day of your funeral you were a great man. We were in the middle of a horrific ice storm...
12:30pm The kids are ready for lunch. Turkey and cheese sandwiches, veggies, yogurt and strawberries. Pretty tasty.
1:00pm The funeral is starting to come to a close. Because of the ice storm they canceled the grave side services, so they were done at the funeral. The rider-less horse, 21 gun salute, and his mom radioed in his last 10-42 (end of duty) call. Whoa, more tears.
1:30pm The funeral ends. Every officer places a white carnation on the casket as they walk by.
2:00pm For the rest of the afternoon the kids and I read, watch some more cartoons, do dishes and laundry.
2:30pm Brian reports to work. His work day is just starting. He's expecting to work a 24hr shift due to the bad weather.
5:30pm The kids and I eat dinner. Spicy chicken, corn, and cottage cheese.
6:00pm I text Brian but don't hear back from him.
7:00pm I give the kids their showers and we all read some library books. Dr.Seuss gives us the giggles. I don't know whats more funny, the stories themselves or me trying to say them without getting tongue tied!
8:00pm I get a call from Nathan's school that classes are canceled again for tomorrow. So we pop some popcorn and plug in Furry Vengeance. Funniest movie ever!
9:30pm Brian calls. He doesn't have to work 24hrs after all. Sigh of relief. But he's still going to be late coming home. "Keep the kids up"
10:00pm The movie is done and we listen to the radio while we wait for daddy to come home.
11:30pm Brian finally makes it home. The kids run to the door as soon as they hear his key in the lock. Giggles, squeals, kisses and hugs for everyone!
11:45pm-12am I get the kids to bed while Brian eats a little something. He looks like he's been run over a few times.
12am We talk about the funeral and his day.
12:30am We are in bed snuggling. I push those fears back where they belong.
He made it home.

Happy Birthday Big Boy

2011-01-23T17:32:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Baby B. Love you more than ever! xoxo

What a New Year

2011-01-19T11:15:00.000-08:00

After passing a nasty stomach bug around we are finally settled into the new year. Nathan started back to school, Brandon has been counting down the days until his birthday and Brian and I are trying to keep up with the boys. It's been interesting.
The day after Christmas Brandon started the stomach bug fiasco. On New Year's Eve Nathan and I had the wonderful opportunity to experience it in full force. Then one week later Brian was the lucky one to bring it to a close. Lots of fun!
Last weekend we had an early birthday party for Brandon. He was so excited to open presents, eat birthday cake and play with his cousin and brother at a bounce house place. He's so funny. He wanted to make his own birthday cake. Chocolate cake with marshmallow icing. On top of the cake he wanted cherry tomatoes, cottage cheese and sprinkles. Mmmm. Tasty.
So we make a chocolate cake with chocolate marshmallow icing and sprinkles on top. We saved the tomatoes and cottage cheese for lunch. He was happy with that.

Here's the soon to be 4yr old. Doesn't he look like a cowboy in training. A carhart jacket, well worn jeans and cowboy boots. All he needs is a cowboy hat.
Ride like the wind little buddy!

Happy Birthday Mr. Crabby and Merry Christmas too!

2010-12-27T14:55:00.000-08:00

Nathan is finally 8yrs old. Wow that took forever...according to him. He spent his birthday playing video games and eating pizza. He loves going to the arcade with his dad and uncle's. He's just one of the guys with them, not a kid but an equal. He loves that so much.
He was also Mr.Crabby in the school play. I was so proud of my little thespian. He's a total ham so this acting stuff is right up his alley. He got to stomp around the stage, shake his cane and look crabby (hence the name Mr.Crabby). He did really well, no stage fright, no jitters, just having fun and eating up the spot light.

We also got to go see Santa at the mall before Christmas came. While we were standing in line I took a couple of silly pictures of the boys. The one below is Brandons favorite of himself. You can almost see his horns poking through the hair. But once he got on Santa Claus' lap he was a pure angle. Speaking in a soft sweet voice asking for his dancing Mickey Mouse. Santa asked the boys if they had been good all year long and they both looked at me like "oh crap, what do we say now?" Santa laughed and said he'd be watching.

So Santa came, ate all his cookies, drank all his milk and left some toys and candy for the boys. Samson even got an extra treat on Christmas morning. I think he looks like Rudolph's long lost cousin. He leaves messes in the back yard like he's part moose though.

Lunch with Bubba

2010-12-07T11:07:00.000-08:00

Today Brandon and I got to have lunch with Nathan at school. Brandon was so excited to pack his Thomas the Train lunch box just like bubba does everyday. All morning this is what I heard from Brandon..."is it time to go eat lunches with Bubba?"
We got to school early and signed in at the office. We walked hand in hand to Nathans classroom. The hall was quiet except for Brandons ohh's and ahh's at all the art work hanging on the walls. Then Nathans teacher let us in the room to stand next to Nathan as they got ready for lunch. Nathan and Brandon hugged like they hadn't seen each other for days instead of just hours and Nathan let Brandon sit in his chair. I wish I would have thought about taking a picture then because Brandon looked like he had just won the lottery. His eyes were just as big as his smile as he sat there looking through Nathans art box. "Bubba! You have big boy scissors!"
Once we got to the lunch room the boys tore into their lunch as Nathan told Brandon the rules of the lunch room. Then Nathan took us on a tour of his classroom. He showed us all his books, the golf balls in a jar that they get when everyone is good (he said they haven't added to the jar for awhile!) and the computers. And since it's so cold outside they don't get to have outdoor recess today but they get to watch Frosty the Snowman.
I know one of these days he isn't going to want his little brother and mommy to come to school to have lunch with him. But today he did. And today Brandon and I enjoyed every single minute.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2010-11-25T11:17:00.000-08:00

Hello out there!

2010-11-22T06:54:00.001-08:00

I don't know where the time went. One minute it's the beginning of October and now it's the middle of November. I guess time does fly when you're having fun.
The boys have been keeping us on our toes these past few weeks. We've went to a farm and picked out pumpkins, spent loads of time outside, dressed up for Halloween (Nathan was a ninja and Brandon was Woody from Toy Story). Nathan has been doing really well in school except for when his mouth gets him in trouble. He just loves to talk! He's getting ready for the school Christmas program so our house has been filled with Christmas songs. Lots and lots of Christmas songs. Sang over and over again. All day long. It's a test of my patience I'm sure.
Brandon has been doing well too. He saw a ghost in our house a couple of weeks ago. That week sucked! But I think she has moved on. Which is good because I was ready to move out.
Now we are getting ready for Thanksgiving. I've taken this entire week off to clean, bake, clean and bake. And Uncle Rick will be home within the next day or two. The boys couldn't be more excited. Pumpkin pie and Uncle Rick, all in the same week, awesome!

Seeing Red

2010-10-07T17:21:00.000-07:00

Look at that handsome monkey in my tree. His hair matches the leaves.

I'm so brave

2010-10-02T17:09:00.000-07:00

Q: What happens when a three year old dancing and spinning along with Barney trips and falls?
A: He hits his head on the corner of the coffee table and freaks his parents out.

Holy cow a cut on the head bleeds sooooo much. I've been told this before but never really had the pleasure of experiencing this first hand. Until now.
Wednesday on my day off, before Brian went to work and after dropping Nathan off at school, Brandon decided to watch Barney. I seriously don't like that cartoon. That big purple dinosaur is extremely annoying. Anyway...Brandon started dancing and spinning, spinning and dancing. I get half of my warning out when it happens. "Brandon stop spinning or you're going...."
BAM!
@#*#! (I said that not Brandon, by the way)
Blood was everywhere. Brandon started to cry, I scooped him up and Brian met us in the bathroom. After we got the bleeding stopped, I called his dr and off we went.
His dr is amazing and Brandon is quite smitten with her. Bonus!
She looked at his boo-boo, tells him she can glue him back together and off they went holding hands to pick out stickers. Dr. M told Brandon how brave he was and what a good boy he was for not crying. He told her "I know. I'm always brave."
After we were done at the dr's office, Brian took Brandon to McD's and got him a happy meal for being so brave.
And all was right with the world again. Just a little bumpy.

Since you won't let me outside...

2010-09-25T17:44:00.000-07:00

...you're gonna have to clean the windows. Again.

Cool summer nights

2010-09-20T13:58:00.000-07:00

A dip in the pool.
Cooking outside over an open fire.
Roasted marshmallows.
Running around the yard with your brother and a cute neighbor girl.
Life just doesn't get much better than that!

It was a good day

2010-09-02T06:55:00.001-07:00

Today I'm grateful for these things...
1. I woke up in Brian's arms. That doesn't happen that often so when it does it's so hard to drag myself out of bed.
2. I got to make pancakes and bacon for Nathan and Brandon this morning and take Nathan to school.
3. Brandon and I took a walk around the neighborhood. We got to see Buddy the basset hound and Snowball the cat. Buddy gave us kisses and Snowball hissed at us.
4. I sat outside in my green chair drinking a great cup of coffee, soaking in the sun and cool breeze while Brandon ran around the back yard in his cowboy boots. He loves his cowboy boots. So much so he doesn't take them off...ever...he even tries to sleep with them on.
5. Watching Brandon chase after Brian's car when he leaves for work. All you can hear is the clomp of his boots and giggles.
6. Naps. Oh how I love when tired, cranky children take a nap and the whole house if filled with quietness. Then when they wake up sweaty and smell so sweet, with pillow wrinkles all over their pudgy little faces.
7. The sound of Nathan's bus pulling up to the corner. Brandon loves to run down the street to greet his big brother with open arms.
8. Sitting at the kitchen table talking to Nathan about his day and helping him with home work. He's so animated about everything he tells me. His eyes just sparkle.
9. Belly laughs. The show Wipeout just cracks us up.
10. Bedtime stories.

Just chillin'

2010-08-23T09:48:00.000-07:00

Sipping slushies , playing at the playground, having a wienie roast with HUGE campfire marshmallows and swimming. Summer days just aren't long enough.
Thanks for another great day Nana and Papaw!

He dresses like one

2010-08-14T09:23:00.000-07:00

Brandon and I made a run to our local CVS today to grab a few things this morning. I was wearing my police wife t-shirt so when we were ready to check out the clerk started asking Brandon some questions about his daddy.

Clerk : What does your daddy do?
Brandon : I don't know.
Clerk : Is he a crook?
Brandon : haha noooo
Clerk : Is he an astronaut?
Brandon : haha noooo
Clerk : Is he a police officer?
Brandon : He dresses like one

I thought the clerk and the man standing behind me were going to roll on the floor they were laughing so hard.
You just never know what is going to come out of a child's mouth.

Back to school

2010-08-12T15:54:00.000-07:00

Nathan was all smiles today as he jumped off the school bus. "I looooove the 2nd grade!"
He goes to a new school for 2nd grade. so everything is new. New play ground, teachers, cafeteria, you know all the important things in life.
He had a great day and can't wait to go back tomorrow. Hopefully this enthusiasm will last all year long.

Back home again

2010-08-11T12:49:00.000-07:00

Oh what a trip. Brian and I packed up the kids and headed north to Minnesota the other day. We left the house at 9am and got there around 8pm-ish. 11 hours in a van with two kids and a crabby husband suck. But it was worth it. We had such a wonderful time visiting family. Brian's dad, aka Gampa, lives there with his oh so lovely wife Penny. Then there are the brusin's (inside joke), Grandma Pittsley and all the aunts, uncle's, cousins, dogs...you get the point. Brian's brothers and families also met us up there too which was an added bonus.
While we were there we went to the Mall of America. That place is huge and it has an amusement park. The kids were pretty excited about that. Brandon and their cousin Kelila got to ride the little kiddy rides while Nathan rode some of the not so kiddy rides and just about lost his lunch. Brian had to keep reminding him to breath and not to throw up. We mainly hung out with family and ate way too much food. You know, the fun stuff!
We finally made it home on Monday night around 11pm. The kids were loaded up with goodies from the grandparents and couldn't wait to take their loot to their rooms. Then they crashed. As did Brian and I.
Hopefully next time we'll get to fly.

Summer Fun

2010-07-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

I love baseball. I only go to one game a year and I never make it past the 7th inning. But I always have tons of fun.

The boys like baseball. They would rather eat the food, dance to the music and run to the bathroom a hundred times so they go to them men's bathroom with Papaw. (Going to the men's bathroom with Papaw is so much cooler than going to the ladies bathroom with mommy. It's like a field trip all on it's own.)

My parents just go to the games to make me and the boys happy. They buy the kids junk food, let them sit on their laps even though its extremely hot and humid, and laugh the entire time at the kids.

Thanks for a great evening Nana and Papaw.
xo

What was I thinking?

2010-06-29T13:11:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I took the kids to the grocery store with me. I hate taking them with me to the grocery store, but since I'm working mornings now I can't go at 2am like I use to. Those were the good old days. Roaming the aisle's of Kroger in the wee hours of the morning, all by myself.
Now, I'm dragging two little monsters along with me to a crowded store. Woohoo. Love it!
Anyway. Back to my point of 'what was I thinking?'
I got suckered into buying powdered sugar donuts. Why would I buy my children sugar covered balls of sugary dough? Why? What did I think would happen after they ate those things? That's my point...I wasn't thinking. I didn't think far enough ahead to see they would have a full blown sugar attack.
Brian fed the kids the donuts this morning while I was at work. And by the time I got home, they were full blown into their sugar frenzy. Brandon's face was still covered in powdered sugar since he couldn't hold still long enough for Brian to clean his face. And Nathan's eyes were bulged out and his head was just about ready to explode.
Oh. My. Goodness.
I just wanted to turn around and go back to work. There was running, squealing, jumping and wrestling going on all at once. I was overwhelmed. I looked at Brian and he just shook his head and went to work.
Whaaat? I was alone. Alone with two sugar crazed boys. Crap.
This house wasn't going to be standing if I just waited it out, so I turned them loose outside. Like the wild animals they were. After two hours and some real food in them, they are back to normal. As normal as two little boys can be.

Fact: My kids love everyone

2010-06-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

My boys have huge hearts. I like to think they get that from me.
They love their family, their friends, animals, neighbors, strangers, the ice cream truck lady...everyone.
Their new object of affection...the person who made their little kiddie pool. On a hot day there is nothing like jumping into an ice cold pool.
So, thanks person who made their kiddie pool! You're the best!

Tough times

2010-06-23T12:01:00.000-07:00

I'm getting ready for a garage sale this weekend. That means that the boys are on red alert.
Any toy that has not been played with in a while will be eliminated.
Tossed out.
Sold.
The horrified looks on my children's faces has been priceless. I know it isn't nice to take pleasure in someone else's pain, but, dang it's funny.
Last night I hit Brandon's room and hit it hard. Toys were flying, he was sobbing and Nathan knew he was next. It's funny though how toys that were put in a box mysteriously kept reappearing in little hiding places. I found toy cars under the bed, in the bathroom cabinet, and little dinosaurs in shoes. I let the boys know that every inch of this house was going to be turned inside out so there was no use in hiding toys. But they tried anyway.
Nathan's room was hit this morning. He somewhat cooperated. I think after last nights display of unmerciful toy elimination in Brandon's room, there was no use in fighting.
I'm a mean mommy!

It has a cooler!

2010-06-19T06:06:00.000-07:00

On Brian's last day off this week he spent about 7 hours looking for a new vehicle. I hate looking at cars so I stayed home with the kids. Plus every time Brian has taken Nathan with him in the past, Nathan informs the car salesman what's wrong with our current car. He's our little honest Abe.
So after all the looking, test driving and paperwork Brian came home with a huge SUV. It really isn't that big. But compared to his Intrepid a Trail Blazer is huge. We had to take the kids for a little joy ride that night to get the boys approval. They love it. When we turned the air conditioner on Nathan blurted out "Woohoo it has a cooler!" The air conditioner did not work in Brian's Intrepid so this is exciting news. Then when we got home Brandon begged me not to take his car seat out of the new car. He didn't want to go back to riding around in my van. I don't blame him. I don't want to ride around in my van anymore either. My van sucks compared to Brian's new toy. But my van is almost paid off, so I have the feeling I'll be driving it around until the wheels fall off.

Fun filled weekend

2010-06-13T18:15:00.001-07:00

This weekend has been so much fun.
Friday I took the kids out on a lunch date. Just me and them eating chips and salsa watching the storm clouds rolling in. It was a fun treat.
Saturday started out slow but ended great. We started the day off cleaning the house and doing laundry. The kids were wanting to play outside but it was so hot and humid that only lasted a few minutes. So we called Nana and Papaw to see if we could come down and take a dip in their pool. We swam, they fed us and then we went to Ritter's for some frozen custard. It was good. Just ask Brandon, he tasted everyone's ice cream.

On Sunday we got to see Nana and Papaw again. We went out for lunch then they took Brandon to the Incredible Pizza Company to play games and I took Nathan to his friends birthday party. Then we went out for some more ice cream. Brandon tasted every one's ice cream again tonight. He thought it was just as good as the night before.
My boys were spoiled rotten this weekend. And they loved every exhausting minute of it!

No good horrible day

2010-06-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Two days ago I had to put Curly to sleep. Curly was Moe's brother. Curly and Moe. Two crazy silly dogs that touched our hearts and made us laugh.
Curly was a little over 14 years old. We decided over the weekend that before he got much worse and started to suffer to have the Dr look him over to make sure we were making the right decision to have him put to sleep. We knew there wasn't anything the good Dr of Beanbloosom could do, but you always hope. This past weekend was a rough weekend for Curly. He had lost control of his bladder, couldn't walk or stand without falling over and had stopped eating. It really sucks when your four legged babies get old and you have to make tough decisions about their fate.
But Curly had been good baby. He walked like Charlie Chaplin, loved to play tug a war with dirty old socks and would fall asleep in Brian's arms.
We'll miss you buddy. Go play with Moe, tell him we love and miss him too.
xo

Where did May go?

2010-05-31T13:48:00.000-07:00

Seriously, where did May go? One day it was Mother's day and then I woke up and it's Memorial day. I guess time really does fly when you're having fun.

This month has been pretty busy. Nathan finished up school and is out for the summer. He is so excited. So is Brandon. He loves having Nathan home all day long to play and argue with. We went to the Air Force Museum and fantasized about flying every aircraft we saw. The boys were pretty excited to see some of the jets that were in the Transformer movies. I thought Nathan's eyes were going to pop out of his head when he saw "Storm Scream" (I think that's his name). He gasped and asked Brian if he could make it Transform for him. Then Brandon crouches down and said "transform" in a very deep voice. When nothing happened he looked at Nathan and said "nope, didn't work." And then they were off.
We've went swimming and had cook outs, played outside every minute the sun has been shining. The ice cream truck stopped by yesterday. She's such a sweet lady. They boys were jumping up and down, squealing and clapping their hands as she pulled up. She asked them if they had been waiting on her, and in unison they both sighed a yeeessss!
This summer we are planing on visiting family and friends, swimming as much as possible, cooking everything we can on the grill and staying outside until we can't keep our eyes open another second longer. So much fun to be had, so little time.

Too cool

2010-05-06T17:48:00.000-07:00

The boys got some new shades the other day for the summer. Last year Brandon broke two pairs within a week, so we'll see how long these last. Brandon wanted orange ones but we couldn't find any so he settled for red with silver flames. Nathan was pretty excited that he found some with skulls on the side. He thinks he's so tough.

Good times

2010-05-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

This is what the kids look like every single time they spend the afternoon at my grandparents house. Dirty and exhausted.

Thanks Papaw!

2010-04-30T08:07:00.000-07:00

This past week has been kind of nice and it also kind of sucked.
Brian had rifle training and had to work day shift hours. That man hates getting up early. But now he is the proud owner of some sort of rifle that will give him an edge over the bad guys on the streets. (Atleast that's what I keep telling myself). But since Brian had to work days, I had to work evenings. It was really nice not getting up at 5am but I missed the kiddo's during the evenings.
My dad watched the kids for us during the overlapping hours that Brian and I were at work.
According to my dad, Brandon is physically and mentally exhausting! HA! Tell me something I didn't already know! Nathan was pretty much on his best behavior and kept Brandon in line. Every time Brandon would try to talk my dad into something he isn't suppose to have, Nathan would speak up..."Brandon's not allowed to do that/have that/touch that." Brandon would wrinkle his nose up and glare at Nathan. Nathan is my little mother hen when I'm not around. It really ticks Brandon off.
Today's my last day working evenings. Next week it's back to getting up before the birds but I get to come home and play with the kids all night long. We get to do homework together, eat dinner together, play games together, read books together. We'll be together. I've missed them so much.

Thanks for watching the kids for us dad. They had a blast!

This is how we roll...

2010-04-25T13:45:00.000-07:00

Poopy Post Part 2

2010-04-19T06:15:00.000-07:00

Well, it's Nathan and Samson's turn to have this lovely little virus that is going around our household. At 1:17am this morning Nathan decided to paint his walls a lovely shade of vomit.
Brian helped me tie a shirt around my nose and mouth so I couldn't smell anything (otherwise there would have been another mess to clean up) and off I went to scrub the walls, carpet, side of the bed, toys, mattress and throw the sheets, bedspread and blanket into the wash. Brian cleaned up Nathan then got the carpet cleaner out to shampoo Nathan's floor.
Around 3am, Nathan was bundled up in a sleeping bag on the living room floor next to a trash can, I was wrapped up in my favorite quilt on the couch and Brian was as far from us as he could get without leaving the house. The lovely perks of being a parent!
Nathan is feeling better now. His tummy is still upset but for the most part he's ok.
Samson's tummy is upset too but at least he lets me know before he gets sick that he needs to go out. Good puppy! I'll forgive you for breaking my fire pit since you didn't poop on the floor!

I pick this day to be...

2010-04-17T12:47:00.000-07:00

...Poopy.
I first woke up to the wonderful spell of dog poop at 5am. Curly, our 14 1/2 year old puppy, is having some tummy issues today and pooped in 5 different spots on our living room carpet. Lovely.
Then Brandon got up around 8am and had to announce to the entire neighborhood that he needed to go "poooooooooooooooop!" He has spent most of his day in the bathroom. Poor baby.
Curly has had a few more accidents, as has Brandon. Right now Curly is outside eating grass, hopefully that cures him. Brandon is watching Tom and Jerry, eating a banana and wanting Nathan to come back home. I shipped Nathan down to my parents so he doesn't catch whatever Brandon has.
I've cleaned up so many messes today it isn't even funny. Brian thought it was pretty hilarious as he was walking out the door to go to work. He had a coworker get pooped on last night by a guy they were arresting, so he better watch out. Karma is a .....!

Sometimes you feel like a nut...

2010-04-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

We've had a busy day. Well, I've had a busy day, the boys have played and tagged along with me to run errands. My day started at 5am and isn't going to be over until well after midnight. But the calm is starting to creep into my home. One child is down for the night, the other is playing quietly in his room waiting patiently for Brian to get home and I've got some soft music playing. My house smells heavenly of coconut and cheesecake. But I smell like cleaning supplies and dog slobber. I'm ready for a steaming hot shower and silky bubbles.
Have a wonderful weekend.

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T05:19:00.001-07:00

Have a wonderful Easter!

Today we are...

2010-03-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

Vikings!

Friends forever

2010-03-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

"Mommy? Know what?"

"What baby?"

"You're my bestess feind."

"You know what buddy? You're my bestess friend too." (sniffle sniffle...whipping tear from my eye).

Low Down

2010-03-12T15:30:00.000-08:00

OK, so here's the thing. I'm lazy and haven't written in awhile so here's the low down on what we've been up to...
~Brandon had his hearing tested and everything is just fine. He's just a very loud little boy who needs and wants to be heard.
~I lost a dear friend this week.
~My dad and I had a very good Korean dinner.
~Nathan got four marks at school the other day, so now he is grounded.
~We went to a museum and looked at pimped out pistols and paintings of Indians. The boys even got to meet Annie Oakley and hold a rifle.
~I read all four books in the Twilight Saga in a week and gave myself a head ache because I read them so fast. Now I'm rereading them, slowly. I'm a little embarrassed to say I'm more than a little obsessed with teenage vampires and werewolves.
~I had a little melt down about Brian being a cop because of a shooting that happened. He wasn't' even at work and it wasn't even on his beat, but it still happened. And it still scared me.
~Our grass is starting to turn green! And the weather is getting warmer here. Wahoo!
Other than that it's just been school, work, play, sleep and eat. Not necessarily in that order.

Doctor, Doctor...

2010-02-24T17:54:00.000-08:00

They boys had their yearly check-up today. Their doctor is anything shy of spectacular and the boys are head over heals in love with her. So when I say it's time to go see the dr, they are more than happy to oblige. Brandon will sometimes put up a small protest if he knows there will be a shot involved, but for the most part he's pretty happy to go.
Today everything went as smooth as silk. Once she passed the kids in the hallway and flashed her smile at them, they were putty in her hands. I love it! That makes life so much easier when your kids love their doctor.
She said the kids are healthy as can be and seem to be just as happy. Nathan is in the 50th percentile on the growth chart for his age. Weighing 50lbs and height 3'11''.
Brandon is in the 95th percentile on the growth chart for his age. Weighing 39lbs and height 3'4''. She giggles every time she sees Brandon. She always tells him that its ok to be the "big guy" that just means there more of him to love. She was a little concerned about Brandon's hearing so we are going to have it checked. I told her how he is always (always) loud. And since he has had a couple of ear infections she thought it would be best to have his hearing checked, just to be safe. More than likely it's just him being loud and wanting to be heard, but it's always better to be safe than sorry.
So, other than that, the kids are healthy, happy, and in love with their doctor.

Go Mommy Go!

2010-02-22T18:14:00.001-08:00

And they don't mean out the door.
They're cheering me on! I've got my own personal pint-sized cheering squad! I would say cheerleaders but I think Nathan would blow a gasket if I referred to him that way!
For the past few weeks I've been working out and the boys have been by my side for every squat, lunge and jumping jack. Brandon usually does about 3.5 minutes of the routine then flops down on the couch exhausted with his bottle of water. His little chunky legs and arms just can't keep up. Nathan on the other hand can pretty much finish most of the routines. He looks like a stick figure swnging his arms and legs around.
It's fun and frustrating to work out in a small space with two little boys. Brandon thinks I'm a bridge to crawl under and Nathan thinks he should be able to use the weights like I do. I can just see him dropping the weights on his foot or banging Brandon in the head with one. So, to say the least, he doesn't get to use the weights! For all of our safety.
Who needs an expensive gym membership with the hassle free children-less environment? Where's the fun in that?!

Hi

2010-02-15T16:27:00.000-08:00

Hey! Whatcha doing'?
We were sweet for a moment and mommy wanted proof so we let her take our picture. It didn't last long, so she's pretty happy that she got the picture.
We wanted to let our Aunt Cindy know we are thinking about her today. It's her birthday, ya know! We hope you had a wonderful day and ate lots of cake, Aunt Cindy! Love ya!
It's getting close to our bedtimes, so we better go take a bath. Talk to ya all later...
Peace.

Bed Bugs

2010-02-03T09:34:00.001-08:00

Would you like a side of attitude with that?

2010-02-02T14:55:00.000-08:00

Holy cow! My boys and their attitudes are makin' life rough tonight! Let's say a little prayer...

Dear Lord,
Oh dear Lord,
Oh dear, dear Lord...
Give me the patience not to rip the heads off of my darling little children tonight.
Give me the strength to carry on when they are screaming and fighting like mortal enemies.
Let them eat dinner in peace and quiet, take their baths without splashing all the water out of the tub and please, please, please let them go to bed early.
Amen!

Right of Passage

2010-01-29T18:27:00.000-08:00

One huge childhood milestone for me was spending the night at my grandparents house. At first I was always nervous for some odd reason, it wasn't like they were strangers or anything, but just being away from my parents always made me nervous. But the memories of playing in the orchard, watching my grandmommy make pickles, "working" out in the garage with Pop-pop are some of the best memories of my childhood. Now my kids are making memories of their own with their first overnight slumber party at Nana and Papaw's house. I don't know who was more excited, my parents or my boys. The boys were squealing with excitement as I was literally pushed out the door. I can just imagine all the fun they are going to have. I wish I could peak through the windows and watch what they are doing. But I would probably get caught by the neighbors and have to explain to the cops why I'm an over protective mom just wanting to watch her kids make memories while playing with their grandparents. Geez.

Samson

2010-01-26T15:32:00.000-08:00

I'm a happy dog!

Happy Birthday Baby B

2010-01-23T19:51:00.000-08:00

This is what a happy three year old looks like...

You're not a girl

2010-01-19T10:38:00.000-08:00

According to Brandon, I'm not a girl. I'm just mommy. Mommies are not girls, they are mommies.
Nathan is always saying boys rule and girls druel. Except for me, since I'm not a girl. I'm a mommy.
I don't know when it happened, but evidently I've stopped being a girl and have been consumed in mommy-ness. That's OK. I'll take being a mommy over a girl for now. I'll be a girl again after the boys are grown and I don't have to get up at 5am to go to work just so we don't have to get a babysitter. Or when I don't have to dig earthworms out of little boys pants pockets before they get totally mushed. Or when I don't have to wipe boogers off the wall. Or when I don't have to referee two little boys wrestling match. I'll be a girl again one day, but I'll always be a mommy.

Baby it's cold outside!

2010-01-10T12:17:00.001-08:00

But snow much fun!

"Workin' 9 to 5!"

2010-01-05T19:00:00.000-08:00

For the past 3 years I've been on a luxury cruise. I've played in the sun, walked barefoot in the sand, and drank fruity drinks. Granted, this was all done in my own backyard with the kids by my side. This "luxury cruise" was me being a stay-at-home mom. Getting to stay home with the kids has been such a wonderful experience. It's been fun, frustrating, rewarding, emotional, stressful, and the best gift to myself I could have ever received. But all good things must come to an end. Well, sort of. I found a part-time job that is just wonderful. I got to choose what days and what hours I want to work, I get the weekends off and paid holidays. I get to work with a friend of mine and the actual job is super easy. So now, I will be working mornings as a file clerk for a hospital. Brian and I will work opposite shifts so we don't have to get a babysitter. That's good and bad. Good since we don't have to hand our kids over to someone I don't trust (I don't trust anyone but family), bad because we won't see each other that much. A small sacrifice for peace of mind.
Brandon hates that I'm working and begs me every night before he goes to bed to not go to work in the morning. That breaks my heart but I know him and Brian will start developing a stronger bond with all the morning alone time they'll have together. Nathan could care less if I work or not. I gave him the important job of getting up by himself, getting dressed and making sure Brian gets up on time. Before bedtime, we set his alarm clock, get his clothes set out and pack his lunch box. So many new responsibilities for my little man, he just eats it up.
It's nice to get back to work and still be with my kids for a huge chunk of the day. It's the best of both worlds. I couldn't be luckier.

Merry Christmas to all...

2009-12-25T18:48:00.000-08:00

And to all, MANY toys!

Happy Birthday Buddy!

2009-12-23T13:27:00.000-08:00

The newest member of the 7 year old club...

Nathan had the "greatest birthday EVER!"

A chocolate, whipped cream covered Army soldier birthday cake.

Friends and family.

Cool presents, video games, go-karts.

Crazy uncles that make you laugh until you cry.

No much can top that.

I can still see you!

2009-12-22T15:56:00.000-08:00

Brandon. Russell.

This is said many, many, many times a day. And every time I say his name in that "mommy is not happy" voice he covers his big brown eye's with his chubby little hands. I know what he's thinking...if I can't see her, she can't see me.

Sorry buddy, it doesn't work. But it does make me smile.

Top 20 list of things needed to grow a boy

2009-12-21T16:32:00.000-08:00

These are a few things you will need to grow a boy...

1.) Patience
2.) Superhero knowledge
3.) Stain remover
4.) Popcorn
5.) Patience
6.) Lego's
7.) Cars, trucks, airplanes, trains, boats
8.) Sunshine
9.) Dirt
10.) Water
11.) Soap...lots and lots of soap
12.) Patience
13.) Band-aids
14.) Fireworks
15.) Root beer floats
16.) Books
17.) A huge imagination to keep up with their imagination
18.) Glue, in a it's forms, super, wood, Elmer's, for all things broken
19.) A low gag reflex (boys are gross)
20.) Lots and lots of love, hugs and kisses

That's pretty much it. And if I forgot to mention it before, patience.

Fun times

2009-12-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

The boys and I have been very busy this past week. School's out, our poor Charlie Brown Christmas tree was carefully put up, ornaments needed to be made, some presents were bought but most have been made, and yummy goodies have been baking away, so many bowls and spoons have been licked clean. We love Christmas time. The boys always make a new ornament for the tree every year. This year we were ambitious and made two, candy cane's out of pipe cleaners and beads, and foam cutout ornaments decorated with glass beads and tons of glue. With the exception of garland and a few selected ornaments, the boys made everything else on the tree. It looks absolutely beautiful! I tried to get a picture of the boys in front of the tree but that didn't work out so well. Nathan stood at attention with a perfect little smile across his face the entire time, but Brandon, well he was just being himself. Every picture he either had an ornament in front of his face or he was a complete blur. He doesn't stand still for more than a second. So, if you are not fast, you are not going to get a good picture of that boy.
Nathan's birthday is in two days. He is going to be 7 years old. Today we picked out an Army soldier birthday cake and finalized birthday party plans. He doesn't know it yet, but we are taking him to a new pizza place here in town. They have indoor go carts, bumper cars, video games galore, bounce house's and of course an endless amount of pizza. Brian and I can't wait to surprise him!

Independence

2009-12-18T21:54:00.000-08:00

This word should not exsist in my children's vocabulary. I know that is a horrible thing to think or even say out loud, but, dang! Why do my little boys want to grow up so fast? Nathan will be 7 yrs old in a few short days that cannot come fast enough for him. Baby Brandon will be 3 yrs old one month later. I know I sound like a broken record. I'm always wishing and hoping I could just freeze time so they'll stay little forever. But as hard as I try, they keep pushing foward. I guess I should be happy and proud that they are finding thier own way in life, it just hurts. Nathan has now decided that we don't have to tuck him into bed anymore and that he needs an alarm clock so he can get himself up in the mornings. Everything Brandon does, he has to do by himself. Don't dare try to help or WWIII will break out. Believe me. I've seen it for myself. It's not a pretty site!
Nathan knows our normal daily routine and has it down. I don't have to tell him to brush his teeth after breakfast or put his coat in the closet when he gets home.
I don't have to tell Brandon to put his underwear on under his pants anymore or not to brush his hair with his toothbrush. They do what they are suppose to do when they are suppose to do it.
Most days anyway.

Papaw, Pinkeye and Pancakes

2009-12-11T14:08:00.000-08:00

All week long, Nathan has been so excited for today. This morning at school he was going to have breakfast with Santa with Papaw as his special guest. He wanted to show Papaw his classroom, his teacher, where he hangs his jacket and book bag. They were going to have a fine dining experience at his schools cafeteria and feast on cinnamon rolls, fruit cocktail and runny eggs. Papaw was even going to drive him to school. It couldn't get any better than that.
Then the unimaginable happened. He woke up this morning with the dreaded pinkeye. Oh the horror! His little heart was broken. No school today. No breakfast with Santa and Papaw. No cinnamon rolls. Tears started to stream down his face. Think fast mom, whatcha gonna do?
To fix the tears Papaw and I decided we could take the kids to McDonald's for breakfast and eat inside. They never get to eat inside, that's reserved for special occasions. Like today.
After eating three pancakes, some sausage, half of Papaw's biscuit and a big orange juice, Nathan's tears were all dried up and a huge smiled was plastered across his face, along with some syrup. Nathan declared this was a lot better than eating at school and we decided we need to do this more often. Brandon was a pretty happy camper too. He tagged along, ate three pancakes himself and guzzled an orange juice. He also has pinkeye. I'm sure we all looked pretty special this morning.
Thanks for the great morning Papaw. You helped turn a very bad day into a special treat for the boys and I.

Aaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

2009-12-04T16:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was too good to be true. Brandon brought me right back down to reality this afternoon.

Busy, busy bumble bee

2009-12-04T10:03:00.000-08:00

I love having a purposeful day. Yesterday was one of those days. Bright and early I woke up before children stirred in their warm blankets. I packed a field trip brown paper bag lunch for Nathan and an extra one for Brandon even though he couldn't go. They decorated their bags the night before with stickers and markers. Nathan even swiped Samson on the butt with a green marker. He looked like he belonged on the Fruit Stripes bubble gum wrapper.
I let the dogs out before their bladders burst then got all fancied up for an interview. Painted my face and put on something other than raggedy jeans and a stained t-shirt. I woke the boys up, got them dressed and packed Nathan's book bag. Brian finally got up to finish the morning off with toaster strudels and o.j. I bounded out the door after many hugs and kisses. I haven't had a ''morning drive to work'' in a very long time. One forgets how frustrating traffic can be when the only place you go in the morning is less than a mile from your home. I arrived to my future place of employment and met my future boss (hopefully), went through a very good interview and walked out of there with a little spring in my step.
Next on my list...field trip. I met up with Nathan's class at the Children's Museum and played for the next four hours. I love watching kids explore and discover. What is better than watching a child's imagination flourish?
After watching the kids load back onto cold yellow school buses, I headed home to my other two guys. Stopped to get us some Korean food, dropped it off at home so Brian could get it ready for the boys, and picked up Nathan from school. After dinner, Nathan, Brandon and I snuggled on the couch for a quick little power nap and then we were refreshed for the rest of the evening to play, read and watch cartoons.
Yesterday was a great day. Plus the kids were on their best behavior all day long! What else could I have asked for?

No...

2009-12-02T11:30:00.001-08:00

Lately our home has been full of No's.
No! I don't want to go to bed.
No! I don't want to eat that.
No! I don't want to listen because I'm tired and hungry.
No. No. No!
My patience has been tested. Tested hard. Tested to the point I left the house as soon as Brian got home, walked around Kroger's for an hour only to return home with a gallon of milk.
Brandon is full throttle into his terrible two's even though he is almost three. And Nathan thinks that he is old enough to do whatever tickles his fancy.
There is light at the end of the tunnel. I haven't seen it yet, but I know it's there. I see the glimmer of compliance in Brandon's eyes every once in awhile. And Nathan figured out the other night that he actually does need me. You know for bedtime stories and root beer floats.

Shake it like you mean it baby!

2009-11-20T06:24:00.000-08:00

My Nathan is a born entertainer. He loves to perform and last night he gave the performance of a lifetime. I laughed so hard my ribs hurt, I smiled so much my cheeks were sore and of course, I cried because my baby is growing up and I still haven't figured out how to make him stop.

Last night was his first ever school program.

After the introductions were done, the lights went dark and the kids sang Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World" while pictures they drew were projected onto a large screen. I'm so thankful the lights were out because I cried so hard. I love that song and hearing little voices sing it tugs at the heart strings. Then they "juggled" scarfs to circus music. Nathan was so serious. And after he caught each one he would look up to see if we were watching. They twirled ribbons to some an Asian themed music which was really pretty. And then, the best was saved for the very last. The kids put on cowboy hats and danced to "Cotton Eye Joe." Oh my goodness, that whole gymnasium erupted into laughter. Those little bodies shimmy shakin' to the music was so hilarious. Hula hoops were brought out to swing around necks and waist. I've never seen Nathan's little hips move so fast in my life. I've never seen any one's hips move that fast, not even hula dancers! They even got to do some free style dancing of their very own. Nathan has been waiting for that all week. He loves to dance so he made up some break dancing/West side Story snapping fingers/river dance routine. Oh my. I can't even describe how funny it was. Brian and I laughed so hard we both had tears streaming down our faces. All my mom could do was say "that's my boy!" And my dad had the hardest time taking picture's because he was laughing so hard he was shaking the camera. After they were finished and the applause died down, Brandon yells out "Yea Bubba!" Nathan had the biggest smile on his face I've ever seen. That was the best night ever!

How do you feel today?

2009-11-18T14:36:00.000-08:00

A little silly?

Or do you have an attitude?

Ice cream as big as your head

2009-11-17T12:07:00.001-08:00

Nana and Papaw treated the boys and I to a wonderful afternoon a few days ago. To celebrate a whole week of good school behavior we spent the afternoon eating, playing and going out for ice cream. Nathan got a root beer float that was seriously as big as his head and he inhaled it faster than I could tell him to slow down. I looked at it when he first got it, turned my head to get Brandon settled with his ice cream, looked back at Nathan and it was gone. His eyes were glazed over from all the sugar and a big smile was smeared across his face. Brandon took a little longer to eat his but he finished every single bite. He got one scoop of strawberry ice cream in a dish. He used his spoon, a straw and then decided it was best to just pick up the dish and slurp it up. It was way too much ice cream for one little boy, but he was determined and finished it all. After he was done he rubbed his belly, moaned and smiled like he was in heaven. After the ice cream was devoured we headed over to the other side of the parlor, looked at Christmas decorations, the boys talked us into getting them some rock candy and little wooden tops. It was a great time. My parents and I laughed so hard watching the kids eat/inhale their treats. I don't know who had more fun, the boys or us.

Here again

2009-11-05T16:16:00.000-08:00

Our computer is acting up again, that's why I haven't been able to post anything lately. So, while it's working (for the moment) this is what we've been up to.

Halloween was a blast. Nathan was a special ops Army soldier and Brandon was a magician. Nathan was so serious and Brandon wouldn't smile because of his painted on mustache.

Nathan has had some trouble at school. His little motor mouth is the trouble. Talking and laughing and joking around seems to be more important than learning right now. So, he's been grounded and almost didn't get to go trick-or-treating. Oh the horror!

Brandon had the croup a couple of weeks ago. He woke up one night with a cough that sounded like a seal barking and he was clawing at his mouth because he couldn't breath. I wrapped him up and was going to take him to the ER but once the cool night air hit him, he was just fine. We went to the dr's office the next day for some medicine and he's right as rain now.

Brian has completely healed from having his appendix taken out and is back to work putting all those bad guys in jail.

And I'm the proud owner of a few more gray hairs. Lucky me.

That's been our life.

Oct 7th, D-day for Daddy

2009-10-07T20:59:00.000-07:00

Brian turned 37 today.
No balloons or fancy parties. Just cinnamon rolls and handmade cards from the boys.
Brian doesn't like any fuss or attention directed toward him. If he could sleep all day long and not have anyone mention his birthday, that would be just fine.
But the boys could not let that happen. Brandon sang Happy Birthday over and over. Nathan kissed him and told him that he doesn't look old. He received phone calls and cards. His mom made him a great dinner and Kelila flashed her gorgeous smile at him. The guys that he works with even decided to have "man night" tonight in his honor.
Turning 37 isn't so bad, now is it honey? At least you don't look old!

I Spy

2009-09-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

Nathan has always loved to play I Spy. He has some I Spy books, he has watched the cartoon and we play it in the car, at home or on our walks around the neighborhood. It's how I taught Nathan his colors, shapes, numbers and letters. Now Brandon is starting to fall in love with the game. He hasn't quite grasped the concept of it though. He understands when I ask him to find something blue, he looks for something blue. But when it is his turn to ask me to find something, he blurts out what the object actually is. He'll say "I spy my white socks" or "I spy my red cup." It cracks me up. At least he knows his colors and shapes. Now if he could just identify his letters and numbers we'd be golden. I spy with my little eye future geniuses!

Finally, the weekend!

2009-09-26T07:08:00.000-07:00

This week has been a little hectic. Tuesday Brian woke up and didn't feel that great. He went to work anyway but a few hours later he was on his way to the hospital. Now, if Brian goes to the doctor for anything, it's because he thinks he may be dying. So when he called and said he was going to the hospital I was sure he was a goner. He told me he thought it was his appendix but wasn't sure so he was going to go get checked out. Four hours later it was confirmed that his appendix was the cause of his tummy ache and surgery was scheduled for sometime the next morning. I hate when they say "sometime" the next morning. That's a twelve hour period! At 6am the next morning Brian called to tell me they would be taking him back for surgery within the hour. The boys and I were out the door 15mins later (everyone dressed, hair combed, toys and snacks packed, and waffles in hand) and on our way the hospital. We get there, race up to his floor just to find out we missed him by two minutes. But the lovey nurse called the other lovey nurse and told her to wait so we could see him for a few minutes. We got to see Brian before surgery, kissed him, hugged him and told him we love, love, love him. 45 minutes later the doctor came out to the waiting room and told us Brian was just fine. He appendix did not burst, it was just a little inflamed and he should be able to go home the next day. Sigh of relief and a hallelujah was heard around the room.
While Brian was in recovery, the boys and I raced back home. I got Nathan ready for school, fed the dogs and let them out, took Nathan to school, then Brandon and I went back to the hospital to welcome Brian back from la-la land.
A day later with a few stitches and pain medicine in hand, we were bringing Brian back home. He's a little slow on his feet and a little cranky (that's pretty normal for him anyway!) but feeling better.
Brian has some of the greatest friends and family on this earth. They called me to make sure the boys and I were ok, the guys he works with sat with him at the hospital when I had to go home to take care of the boys, my parents and our neighbors offered to watch the boys or take Nathan to school for me if needed. I can't tell you how wonderful it feels to know that we have such amazing people in our lives. Thank you all!

Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn

2009-09-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

It is always bittersweet to say goodbye to summer. No more long days to soak in the sunshine. No more playing outside in the warmth from son up til son down. (heehee, get it? Sun/Son. I crack myself up!). But I absolutely love, love, love autumn. The crisp cool weather, leaves changing colors, carving pumpkins for Halloween. Love it!
Nathan is also torn. He hates that it's getting dark earlier outside but is so excited for Halloween. G.I.Joe is all the rage with him right now so of course that is who he wants to dress up as for Halloween. Brandon says he wants to be that too, but Iron Man keeps coming up every now and then. I'm sure he'll change his mind a hundred times before the big night comes around.
We will be making Fall/Halloween decorations this weekend to welcome the change of season. Ghost and skeletons will be lerking around our front yard. Bats and spiders will dare you to ring our doorbell. And a fat pumpkin will be proudly plopped on our front steps saying "two crazy kids, a mummy, mad hatter, and two devil dogs live here. Would you like some candy, my sweet?"

Tooth Fairy

2009-09-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

The tooth fairy paid a visit to Nathan last night. He lost yet another tooth. I told him we won't need to get any pumpkins this year for Halloween, I'll just sit him outside with a flashlight and he can be our jack-o-lantern. He didn't think that was very funny.
Anyway, when he woke up this morning under his pillow were two crisp dollar bills, two shiny quarters and one rough looking half dollar coin. He promptly put the dollars in his billfold, the quarters in his piggy bank and the half dollar in his treasure box. Boy, oh boy, does that tooth fairy know exactly what my jack-o-lantern looking child loves.