Pirwitz Place

Progress Report for January

2012-02-06T12:44:00.002-06:00

Well January has come and gone and February is moving in. In order to be accountable for my goals, I am going to evaluate my goals and how I did for the month. Some areas, I know I did well and some I know I fell short on. So here we go.

1. I want to keep a blog, update it regularly with things that are important to my family and me (at least 2 times a week.) Well, this one needs a lot of improvement. I dropped the ball on this one but I'm going to continue to work on it.

2. I want to continue my journey to becoming more healthy. I want to continue to go to the Y at least 3 days a week and the weight loss goal continues to be 1 pound a week. I also hope not to get frustrated if I have an off week and throw it all away because of that (I tend to do that.) Well, some weeks I went to the Y less than 3 times but some weeks I went more so we're going to call it even and that is a success in my book. Weight loss goal was a little trickier. Did not lose a pound a week but did lose and I am finding I am hitting a bit of a plateau. Hopefully, if I keep at it, we'll make more progress soon.

3. I want to become more organized, in my home, with the kids schedules and in my life in general. The quest for organization continues. In January, I re-organized the kids bedroom closets, the kitchen pantry and the kitchen in general. I am working on the basement right now and hope to have that all complete soon. The kids schedules, while incredibly busy, are working out pretty well. We have been getting places on time (sometimes barely) and that's really all I can ask for.

4. I want to read more. My to-read book list grows ever longer and I rarely cross anything off. My goal this year is 15-20 books..... Well, I have read one book so far. The Help. I loved it and am looking for another read currently.

5. I want to have more family fun time; game nights, movie nights, just in general hanging out and enjoying my family, at least once a month. Well, this one worked out pretty well. We went to a school sock hop, had a movie night in, had a movie night out, and even had a last minute vacation that included shopping, swimming and the Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumburg.

6. I want to figure out what I want to do with my life...narrow down the possibilities and start on the road to making it happen. I have been mulling and thinking about possibilities and that's about all I can say about this one.

7. I want to finish some of my already-in-progress projects...at least 5. They are in various stages of completion and some started many, many years ago. No real progress on this one as I have been focusing on working on getting things organized, and that some of these projects require nice weather.

8. I want to keep my house cleaner on a daily basis. Restart my routine and stick with it. I want to organize a chore chart for the kids. They are certainly old enough to take on some of the responsibility for keeping our house a home and helping out is part of being a family. I'll be honest, I kind of forgot about this. I am trying to keep the house cleaner but that gets away from me sometimes and I have not even started a chore chart for the kids. Need to do this soon!

9. I want to build and grow a vegetable garden in our back yard. Nothing big, but a nice garden to grow some of our own food. Well, it's winter in Wisconsin so no progress on this one until late spring.

10. I want to cook more of our meals. And more than that, I want to try more new recipes. We get stuck in the same meal rut on a pretty regular basis. I'd like to try 2 new recipes a month. I've been cooking more but nothing new so still need lots of work on this one.

11. I want to learn one new skill this year. I'm not really sure what that skill will be but I want to learn something new. No progress on this one either yet.

12. I want to get away for at least one long weekend with my husband. It will be our 10th anniversary this year and we never took a honeymoon. It is time we reconnected without our children. Also as a piggy back goal to that, I want to have more date nights. We rarely do things together alone and I think that is important for our relationship. Well, we have an anniversary trip planned for March and we are excited to get away. Let's hope for no snow on that weekend. No date nights yet but I have a gift card for a restaurant we want to try so we're hoping to be able to try that out soon.

Well, that's it, that's my progress of January. As I look at each goal, I see I have a lot of work to do yet but in some areas, I'm happy. I'll keep at it and hopefully at the end of 2012, I'll have completed everything.

Perseverance

2012-01-19T17:16:00.006-06:00

"Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another."

Walter Elliot

I find inspiration and comfort in this quotation. Particularly today. This morning, it was -25 degree wind chill and my bed was so toasty and comfy warm. After a particularly difficult morning of getting the kids out of the house to school and all I really wanted to do was go back home and crawl into that comfy bed, I still went to the Y. Short race #1, getting there.

And even after arriving late and really wanting to get done quickly, I still did my full elliptical workout. Short race #2.

And even after looking at the time and wanting to just skip the bike and move on to the pool, I rode the bike. Short race #3.

And when I was swimming and tired and worn out and not wanting to finish the mile, I swam on. Short race #4.

So today I persevered. I did what I knew I needed to do, even though my body was tired and worn out. I persevered. Somehow the -25 degree wind chill didn't seem quite as bitter on the way home.

Dance Studio Closed

2012-01-10T16:38:00.005-06:00

This is my kitchen. See that big open space there in the middle?

Well, it has become a dance studio, a playroom, and an indoor track. Which is all fine and dandy until you actually want to cook or bake or use the kitchen for any other activity that kitchens are normally used for. And frankly, I couldn't take it anymore. I love my children but the "No Dancing and Jumping around in the Kitchen" rule was not being followed.

So my husband and I were talking about our problem area. After some measuring and some discussion and some research, we discovered that we would have room for a stand alone island. It would have to be small, but it would kill two birds with one stone; it would stop the use of our kitchen as a dance studio and it would give us some more counter space/work space and if we were lucky, a little more storage. Win/win! The other consideration when looking for an island is that we are currently renting our home, at least for the time being. So we wanted to make sure that it was removable and not too expensive.

Well, I began the search for the perfect island. After checking website after website, I did find one I liked at IKEA. It would mean a trip down there (about 3 hours) but I am always up for a drive to IKEA. The only problem is that it would be a tight fit in an already small space. We had to make sure that our fridge and dishwasher could still open. Well, I was already for a drive and a fun shopping day when I decided to check craig's list. This actually occurred to me after finding a post on pinterest where a woman found an IKEA island on craig's list and painted it and now it is this awesome focal point in her kitchen. On a side note, Pinterest simultaneously inspires me and makes me feel like I am decorating-challenged. But this particular day, I was inspired to check out craig's list. Who knows maybe I could do a similar thing!

Well, wouldn't you know it, there was an island listed for $70 in my town! So for a quarter of the price, and minus a tank of gas, maybe this island would work for our need. We went to check it out and while not perfect, we decided it might work. The bottom was almost the exact color of our cabinets and while the counter is not the same, it may go well enough. So we paid the man and loaded it our van.

After cleaning it up and using a stain pen to hide some of the scratches and chips at least until I can refinish it in the spring, it looks pretty good. We bought a couple of baskets with lids at our local World Market on sale.

And one more view from the other side!

So I think this just might work for us, a little more counter space and a little more storage. Because let's face it, who couldn't use more storage space in their kitchen. If there is any one out there that complains of having too much storage in their kitchen, I'd like to meet them and then steal their kitchen. But best of all, I think this will close the dance studio.

The best part though is that it has wheels (that lock) and if we need to have a concert or a dance party, we can move it aside!

Time Flies

2012-01-09T14:47:00.002-06:00

How do seem to divide your day? Work/Home, School/Home, Work/School/Home. Today as I am watching the hours fly by, I realized my day is divided into several very specific time slots.

6:30-7:45--Hurry up and Get ready and get to school

7:50-7:55--Breathe a sigh of relief and take comfort in the quiet

8:00-10:45--(Most days) Go to Y and get ready

10:45-11:00--Excited to pick up Ceci and spend the rest of the day together

11:01--Realize the girl is worn out from school

11:15-11:45--Lunch with Ceci

11:45--???--Try to get Ceci to just lay down for a little bit, just to take the edge off

1:30--Give up and realize that she just might cry the rest of the day away

1:30-3:05--Try to get something done amidst the crabby, tired crying of a pre-schooler before the kids get home

3:10--Emily and Jack come home and thus begins homework and referee time

4:30-5:00--Start thinking about what to make for supper

5:00-6:00--Make supper

6:00-6:30--Eat supper

6:30-7:00--Clean up supper

7:00-7:30--Bath time

7:30-8:00--Wind down, read books

8:00--Bedtime, try to convince Cecilia that she is indeed tired and needs to sleep

8:30--Still fighting with Cecilia to go to bed

9:00--(If I'm lucky) Sit down and watch a little TV before passing out

And I wonder why I can't seem to get caught up with anything and always feel like I have a million things to do....

Back in Action

2012-01-03T17:59:00.002-06:00

Today is a one of the best days of the year for parents everywhere. Besides the first day of school, the day the kidlets go back to school after winter break is the greatest day! There is no more fighting, no more "I'm bored" despite the mountains of new toys, and no more whining! It is a beautiful thing. The best part for me was a trip back to the Y! And after being 'off' for about 10 days, it was great to be back...for the most part.

The benefit of joining the Y in say October or November is you are not a 'newbie' come January. You know how everything works, you have a great routine in place and you know people. Now, I wouldn't say that I 'chat' with a lot of people at the Y, in fact, I really don't know many people there. But, I know their faces and we share kind hellos and knowing looks. Today was one of those days. The place was packed! I even had to switch things up a bit today because all the machines were being used.

But as I finished my first part of my workout this morning (2 miles on the treadmill and 5.5 miles on the bike) I felt revived. I was thankful to be back, listening to my ipod and feeling good. Then I went to swim. Lately, I like to get a mile swim in. I got to the pool and there wasn't a lane open! I have never seen it like this. I shared a lane with another friendly face, a woman I have seen there many times before. It was in this moment that I was thankful that I wasn't a 'newbie.' I am in no way saying that I am a veteran to the Y, but I feel comfortable there. That is where I start my day (at least 3 days a week, if not more) and today it felt amazing! Especially that first plunge into the water. I am consistently surprised at how good it feels to swim.

I never thought I would feel that way. I was never one to go to the Y and a workout seemed like a chore and I had to work up the motivation. I don't feel that way anymore. I have a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment after a good workout, a morning spent with myself and my ipod. So if you haven't started, or you are just beginning and it still feels like a chore, give it time, get in a good routine and take the time for yourself. It is a good feeling.

And even if I don't accomplish anything else all day, which sometimes can happen with 3 kids and homework and activities. I know I have accomplished something for myself. But for the record, today I also did five loads of laundry. So today, I am extremely grateful to be back in the swing of things, back into my routine and back in action.

New Year, New Start

2012-01-02T12:22:00.003-06:00

Alright, blogland, I realize I have little to no readership but I have decided to do this for myself. I am going to use this blog as a way to be accountable to myself and the goals I have for this year. I dislike the word resolution so I prefer the word goals. So often I make resolutions and they are out of my mind by the end of January. I decided to limit myself to 12 goals. It seemed fitting...12 for 2012. They aren't new goals or in any way special, in fact I'm sure thousands are making these same goals. But here they are anyways.

1. I want to keep a blog, update it regularly with things that are important to my family and me (at least 2 times a week.)

3. I want to become more organized, in my home, with kids schedules and in my life in general.

4. I want to read more. My to-read book list grows ever longer and I rarely cross anything off. My goal this year is 15-20 books. I have friends who can read 50 books a year and while I want to eventually get there, I know myself and when I make goals that are two big, I get frustrated and quit before I ever get started.

5. I want to have more family fun time; game nights, movie nights, just in general hanging out and enjoying my family, at least once a month.

6. I want to figure out what I want to do with my life...narrow down the possibilities and start on the road to making it happen.

7. I want to finish some of my already-in-progress projects...at least 5. They are in various stages of completion and some started many, many years ago.

9. I want to build and grow a vegetable garden in our back yard. Nothing big, but a nice garden to grow some of our own food.

10. I want to cook more of our meals. And more than that, I want try more new recipes. We get stuck in the same meal rut on a pretty regular basis. I'd like to try 2 new recipes a month.

11. I want to learn one new skill this year. I'm not really sure what that skill will be but I want to learn something new.

So that's it. 12 goals for 2012. At first my little list was hard to come up with but as I got started I realized I could go on and on and on. Good thing I am limiting it to 12. I feel like I might be more successful if I don't start off too big.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how I can make these goals more attainable? Have you had success with your new years goals in the past? What are your goals for 2012?

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-20T12:47:00.003-05:00

Someone has to do the work around here!

Well....me and Papa!

Adventures in Baking

2010-10-19T19:32:00.003-05:00

So as some of you know, I love to bake and these are two of my latest endeavors. The first are some apple cupcakes I made for Emily's birthday. They were super easy and turned out really cute, at least I think so. The idea came from a cupcake book called What's New Cupcake? They are just regular cupcakes with a little donut on top covered in frosting and sugar and the stem is a tootsie roll and the leaf is a tootsie roll.

The second is a Chocolate Strawberry Torte that I made for dinner with my sister and her fiance one night. I made it all from scratch including the glaze and it was unbelievably delicious.

Sleeplessness...

2010-09-30T00:50:00.002-05:00

So I feel like I've dropped the ball on posting again. I have pictures from our trip to the Little Farmer to post and I swear I'll get to them. But right now, the main thing is, I can't think enough to put more than a few sentences together. I haven't been sleeping well. I can't seem to shut down my mind long enough to get a decent amount of rest...hence the posting at 12:51 a.m. So I am becoming a bit of an insomniac and am looking for help. I need ideas on how to catch some real zzz's. So if you have any ideas on how to turn off my brain, I'm all ears.

How often?

2010-09-23T12:27:00.002-05:00

Well, I am trying to recover from this horrible cold that everyone in the known world seems to have. Part of the recovery process is to catch up on all the chores that didn't get done whilst I was sleeping this particular virus off. It's amazing how quickly the laundry piles up, the floors dirty and the surfaces of our kitchen get covered with school papers, bills and other things that need to be dealt with. So as I am doing all my catch up, changing sheets and cleaning bedrooms, washing and ironing, I got to thinking. How often do you clean everything? Now, I know the clear answer for most people, is not often enough. We all wish our houses would stay cleaner, neater and more organized in general, at least I hope that is the case and I am not alone in this.

My problem is that as a stay-at-home mom, I feel guilty when things don't get done. Like I've failed my job if my house isn't clean. Some days I just struggle to keep up with all the everyday stuff, the dishes, sweeping, picking up toys, that I can't figure out how I am going to fit in the bigger jobs, like cleaning out the garage or going through old clothes. The toys and bikes strewn all over the garage just add to my frustration at not getting to these things. The most trying time of day is the after school/work time, when new papers and backpacks and lunch bags clutter the kitchen I tried so hard to straighten up from the day before all while trying to get a dinner on the table or help with homework so that we can make it to whatever soccer game or activity is scheduled for that night.

So my readers (all 2 of you), how often do you change sheets, do laundry, wash and/or vacuum floors? What do you, if anything, iron and how often? How do you fit it all in with your schedules? How do you keep up with everything? How do you get motivated? There are no judgements here. Just wondering, if you struggle with this as much as I do and what strategies you use to keep things up or just get motivated in general. Hit the comments!

Out with the old, and in with the old?

2010-09-19T12:37:00.003-05:00

So we've been settling in for a while now and with school starting, we decided it was time to go back to church. The obvious choice for this was to go back to my childhood church. After all, my parents and grandparents are still members, along with some of my extended family. We got married there, Em was baptized there and all in all, I have roots there. I was confirmed there and I sang in the choir, was active in the youth group and I loved it there. I thought there was no place that I would ever call 'home' as much as I loved that church.

Then I moved and about the time we were expecting Jack and I knew we weren't going to be driving an hour and a half for church every Sunday, we decided it was time to join a new church in the Waukesha area. And we found one, and it was the perfect fit. We loved it, the kids adored it and often asked to go. Our pastors were dynamic with heartfelt sermons that were really more like a conversation infused with humor than a preaching. We felt at home, I taught Sunday School, the kids were in choir. Then we moved back.

And now we went back to my childhood church and it doesn't have the shine it used to. I fully understand that everything changes and that as we go more, it may feel more like home. There are still things I love about it. I love that my choir teacher, the woman who basically taught me how to sing, will be the choir teacher for my kids. They couldn't ask for anyone better! I love seeing some familiar faces but there are things that don't feel like home anymore. The church seems dark, our old church was bright and you felt the sun shine in and it was joyous. This church is very traditional with beautiful stained glass windows.

I think the big thing for me is that Sunday School is in the off hour so the kids are in church with us. Now don't get me wrong, I understand the reasoning of this, worshipping as a family and them learning the importance of tradition and worship, I really do. But from my stand point, with 3 children, it makes it very difficult for me to worship. I am trying to keep my 2nd grader engaged, and my 3 year old quiet and frankly, I miss most of the service. I only catch snip-its of the sermon. And I miss that. For me, church is a place I recharge. I repent, and worship and the happenings of the past week fall away and I feel refreshed and ready to face the next week. Never mind the fact that I would love to join choir again, but it is not really possible because the choir sits at the front of church for the whole service and there is no way I can leave my husband to handle the 3 children by himself.

So I am torn with these feelings. This is the place it makes sense to be and maybe it will grow on me. We are giving it a chance but I just can't help but miss our old home.

Watch out!

2010-09-17T12:18:00.002-05:00

You sense it for days. You ignore all the signs. You're living in denial. It won't get you. You go about your day until....

You can no longer ignore it. It hits you like a ton of bricks. And you are down and there is no denying it anymore. You are done. You are infected. You have a cold!

And so do I...

My Newest Love

2010-09-16T20:19:00.003-05:00

Today, I was introduced to a little piece of cooking heaven. A good friend of mine said she was going to go to the Bulk Food Store in Greenville and I asked if I could join her. Oh.My.God. This place was amazing. First of all, anyone who knows me understands my love for baking and decorating. I love making, as my kids call them, fancy cupcakes. This place has every kind of sprinkle imaginable and every color of sanding sugar possible. And not only that, but extremely inexpensive. We took Ceci with us and we picked out all kinds of fun sprinkles for Halloween cookies and now Ceci can't wait to bake cookies! She must have asked me at least 6 times today. I can't wait to go and buy sprinkles for Christmas cookies and Easter cookies.

It's not just sprinkles though, it's snack mixes, soup mixes, dip mixes and the spices....oh the spices. They have such a variety. Like spices I hear about on Food Network and want to try but can't find in the grocery store, they have it. Now I know when you hear Bulk Foods you think you might be buying extremely large quantities of things. You aren't. They are normal sizes of stuff, they repackage things so you're not buying 425 oz. of vanilla or 50 lbs of flour.

This store made me excited to cook new things because I can try new recipes with things I don't already have in my kitchen for a reasonable price. And better than that, I can get all of my spices and other kitchen staples for substantially less than in the grocery store. I feel like I stumbled upon something great today and I can't wait to go back again, and again, and again!

Wordless Wednesday.....almost wordless!

2010-09-15T12:49:00.003-05:00

One Saturday this summer we took Jack and Cecilia to Door County (Em was on vacation with a friend.) These are a few of my favorite pictures from that beautiful day!

We are a Soccer Family

2010-09-13T21:10:00.004-05:00

Well, it is official, we are now a soccer family. Both Emily and Jack are playing on teams. They are on separate teams and we now spend two nights a week watching them play in games. It is funny how they are so different too. Jack is a natural. He loves the sport and will play any position as longs as he gets to play. At his first game on Thursday, he played almost the entire game. And when the goalie got kicked (yes, this is just a rec league for 1st and 2nd graders!) Jack jumped in a played goalie. He followed that ball and ran and r

an and ran and had a blast!

Emily loves the game, but she does not have the natural gift that Jack has. She is going to have to work at it, but she does love playing and you have to start somewhere. She had her first game tonight and while I think sometimes she was more concerned about how she looked while playing, she did take a turn at goalie and in the second half, she got in there and kicked the ball. She tried and that is all that we ask of her but in the end, she enjoyed playing and that is what it really is all about!

And we are so very proud of both of our little soccer players!

Make New Friends...

2010-09-12T17:13:00.002-05:00

Remember that old song, I learned it in Girl Scouts, "Make New Friends." You know the one, "Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other's gold." That song has been haunting me lately. For my kids, the beginning of the school year has brought new kids and new friends. They go to school each day and come home with a new friend they have met. It's remarkable how quickly this happens. A simple, "Do you want to play with soccer?" starts a new friendship over the course of a 15 minute recess. Remember when it was that easy to connect with people. Oh how I wish that transcended into adulthood.

Here we are in a sort of newish town and we have been here for several months now and it becomes increasingly apparent to me how difficult making new friends is. I mean, it is easy enough to make new acquaintances, but how do you get over the hump of acquaintance and move into friend. That is my struggle these days and to be honest, I'm not entirely sure how to get over it. If only it was as easy as playing a game of soccer at recess...

Fall

2010-09-10T09:54:00.004-05:00

The hot, muggy days of summer have seem to passed and the cool crisper days of fall are ahead of us. This year, for the first time, I don't think I was quite ready for it. Don't get me wrong, I love fall, I love the cooler weather when a sweater is all you need when you go out to feel comfortable, but I just don't think I was prepared for it to come so quickly. But more than just the weather has shown me that summer is over, the kidsare in their second week of school and loving it. And I love having more quiet days with Cecilia. She is so funny and I love my alone time with her.

Emily is in fourth grade this year and I'm still not quite sure how that happened. She is loving her new school and she is making friends and adores her teacher who incidentally was once my teacher. :) Despite the look on her face in this picture, she really does love it.

Jack started second grade and I think he just

might be the cutest second grader ever. In fact, he lost his first tooth just a couple of weeks before school started so he will have the quintessential second grade picture with a missing tooth or two!

Apple-picking and Halloween will be right around the corner. And then before we know it, it will be Thanksgiving, Christmas and snowing but before I get too far ahead of myself, I'm going to enjoy the glorious days of changing and falling leaves, football and soccer games, and crisp, cool walks in the afternoons...

with my favorite 3 year old!

Major Fail!

2010-09-08T08:47:00.002-05:00

Let's be honest, I am a terrible blogger. I tell myself to blog more. I think about posts and pictures to share and do I ever get to it? NOPE. Part of it, I think I have nothing really spectacular to say. I look at my friends blogs and I lurk on other people's blogs, almost to the point where I think I know them, and I am envious at the ever changing topics and interesting things they write about and then I look at my life, and it somehow seems inadequate. Now, please don't take that the wrong way, I mean I know that being home with my kids is important and all that but my day to day stuff, doesn't really seem blog worthy. I mean who really wants to hear about the mountain (and I do mean mountain) of ironing I tackled Sunday or the homework I helped with yesterday. It is rather mundane so I struggle with thinking of things people would actually enjoy reading. I know my kids are a never-ending source of comedy and drama for me, but people don't always enjoy reading that. Now even as I type this, I realize, that I have no real readership so it's not like I have disappointed anybody but myself, but for now I'll just pretend. So I want to be a better blogger, if not for anyone else to read, but for myself to chronicle my life and to get outside of my own head. So if anyone is out there and actually cares, I am going to try to do better, (and yes, I am aware that I have said this before) and to blog more, if for nothing else to help me get out of my own head!

Adventures in Cooking

2010-03-08T14:15:00.003-06:00

Well, this past weekend has come and gone so quickly. I was thankful for my family to be all together. The weather was beautiful and the kids played outside all weekend. Thank goodness! The downside of the beautiful spring weather is the last minute late night washing of jackets so they weren't totally covered in mud when they went back to school today.

Saturday morning, I managed to get the house clean and I got to clean it the way I like, taking my time, not in a rush or on a deadline. And I still had it all cleaned by 1p.m. I had a nice lunch and I got outside to get the Christmas lights off the house. I fully realize that it is almost St. Patrick's Day and I am that house that still had lights on it. But in my defense, I did not have the lights turned on since Jan. 6th and the roof of our house was so covered with snow and ice that there was no way I was going to be able to get those lights down and I am NOT the last house in my neighborhood with Christmas lights still up.

Then Patrick and I watched Chopped on the Food Network. And then I made a grocery list. Here is a bad idea. Watching all of these chefs cook really nice meals and then deciding what to make for your family. It leads to overly ambitious cooking projects. I pulled out Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child. It was a Christmas gift from my husband and children after watching Julie and Julia when I made the comment that I would love to do that. Yes, you can see where this is going. I open it to Filet of Fish in White Wine with Mushrooms. And then I proceed to think I can actually cook this. I go to the store and buy 2 1/2 pounds of tilapia. $20 in fish. All I can picture is the money going down the drain when this doesn't turn out. So I come home unload the groceries and reopen the cookbook. I must have read the article 3 or 4 times before I even sliced the mushrooms. I did what I never do when I cook. I cut everything first and had everything prepared to go into the recipe as it needed it. I wasn't taking any chances. Afterward, I realized that cooking Julia would be easier if I had all the correct pots and pans but I made do with what I had. I was so nervous but when I finally finished and pulled the fish out of the oven and brought it to the table, it was beautiful. I really should have taken a picture. I served it over rice with asparagus on the side. We all took a bite. It was phenomenal. It was like something served at our favorite seafood restaurant. The fish was perfectly cooked and it melted in your mouth. The mushrooms (which are not a fan favorite in our house) where devoured. The children asked for seconds. I felt triumphant.

Now you would think this would be enough to carry me for the next few meals but Sunday I take on another ambitious (for me) cooking challenge. Maybe not as ambitious as Julia but something I have never tried. I was going to stuff and roast a whole turkey. I know millions of people do this every Thanksgiving but we go to my parents for Thanksgiving and my mother is an amazing cook, like seriously amazing, so there was never a real need to cook a turkey. Well, with the move to Neenah (maybe someday) I knew that someday I would most likely have to cook a turkey for other people and I wanted to make sure that my first turkey would be just for my immediate family so if I embarrassed myself, no one would really know. You should also know that I have cooked turkey before. I have made turkey breasts often...successfully. But my turkey turned out beautifully. It was moist and tender and delightful. My gravy was a little runny but all in all, it was a successful culinary weekend.

And on tonight's menu, mac and cheese and ring bologna.

It's Oh So Quiet

2010-02-24T10:25:00.002-06:00

So you know that song, "It's Oh So Quiet." The verses talk about it's oh so still and oh so quiet and then the chorus comes and it gets vibrant and loud and it talks about how you fall in love with a zing boom. It's a great song and I love it. That is what my weeks are like now. With Emily and Patrick in Neenah during the week, my week days are still and quiet and peaceful until...

The weekend! Em and Patrick are home and 'Zing Boom.' The house becomes a riot! The kids are yelling and fighting and a tornado hits my house. And then Monday comes and it is "oh so quiet" all over again.

It is the best way to describe my life right now. And now for your enjoyment...here is the song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=horRWtbAJoI

Blizzards and Pink Eye!

2009-12-10T09:20:00.002-06:00

Well, the first "blizzard" of the season has come and gone. While much of the state had massive amounts of snow, we got about 6 inches, which I have to admit disappoints me. I LOVE snow and I was hoping for a snow day with the kids. I love snow days because it is a day of just relaxing and spending it with the kids. We got rain which led to slush which led to me shoveling. It was terrible to shovel and exhausting.

Well school was on, and Emily had pink eye so in a way I got my snow day anyways. Jack had coughed in bed all night so I decided to keep both kids home for a much needed day of rest. There was decorating and napping and snuggling and all in all and okay day. Today is freezing and Emily is home one more day. I am looking forward to the weekend and baking and catching up on some much neeed sleep. I hope everyone stays warm in the frigid weather.

First Snow!

2009-12-03T13:55:00.002-06:00

There is something magical about the first snow of the season. Generally, it is simply flurries so there is no worries about driving or shoveling or any of the usual groans of snow. It just floats down gently. It is almost whimsical. And today was no exception. It is snowing here today. Nothing accumulating, mind you but it is beautiful. The white delicate flakes falling down just makes me smile. I love to sit here cuddled under a warm blanket and watch it. It makes such a beautiful winter scene. It's like living in a snow globe. I took the little kids outside today for a walk in the first snow. It was so fun to watch them try to catch snowflakes on their little tongues. The sheer joy that such a simple snow brings. It warms my heart.

Wordless Wednesday: A Girl and Her Dog!

2009-09-30T08:55:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to my Sweet Girl...

2009-09-14T10:20:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to my dear Emily Lou. She is 8 years old today! I am so proud of my beautiful girl. She not only excels at school, but anything she puts her mind to. She is compassionate and empathetic. She truly cares so deeply about everyone. She says beautiful things like, "we are making a memory right now." She is sometimes wise beyond her years and in the same moment, I remember how it felt to hold her for the first time. She is lovely and I love her more than words can say. So Happy Birthday Emily Lou! I hope you have the most wonderful '8' you can have!

Moving?

2009-08-07T14:43:00.002-05:00

So, it's no secret we will have to move. The big question is when. Should we get all the work we can done in the house and get it up on the market this fall and how long is it going to take to sell. If it is going to take 6 months to sell are we better off waiting until spring to put it on the market in the spring. Things are so up in the air right now that I don't know which way to turn or what decision is the best one. Will the market be better in a six months...or god forbid, worse. Can we even sell our house for what we owe? There are so many variables and so many unanswered questions. I just feel like I am standing in a crowded room screaming "HELP" at the top of my lungs and no one is hearing me...

Onaway and other Summer Fun

2009-07-31T15:43:00.010-05:00

So the kids started the summer out with a Summer Enrichment Program at their school. They loved it, 3 weeks from 8:30-11:30. It was great, they did fun activities at school and I had some alone time with Cecilia which I hadn't had in a long time. It was nice to spend a couple of hours with just her each day.

We had a wedding in June and it was very nice. Right on Lake Michigan and the kids had a great time dancing. Cecilia had such a good time dancing that she ran to the dance floor and caught the edge of a table. Not good. Two hours and 2 stitches right above her left eye, we were finally heading for home. She healed nicely and wasn't even bothered by the stitches.

Then we had a great week at Camp Onaway. We had beautiful weather and truly enjoyed seeing all of our Family Camp friends and enjoying time together. It is so nice to just have fun with the kids. No dishes, no laundry no nothing. It was wonderful. It was a year of firsts for the kids up there. Emily rode a horse by herself for the first time, she also did the high ropes c

ourse at camp. She was way up there and she did a wonderful job.

Jack loved camp this year. More so than years past. He lived and breathed camp and all that camp had to offer. He participated in the Fishing Derby with Mom and loved swimming this year. He was a water bug, swimming whenever he could. He even tried the slide and the diving board this year as well as multiple trips on the Banana Boat. He truly enjoyed smores and he was in a skit this year and he makes a fabulous raccoon.

Cecilia was fearless and also went off the diving board for the first time this year and also rode the Banana Boat several times. She loved swimming and running around and also leading songs with Mom. I have a feeling she is going to treasure camp just as much as I do.

For Patrick and I, it was a strange but wonderful week. It was the first year that the older kids could pretty much do what they wanted without a parent to help them. Em had her friends that she would go swimming with and Jack was always busy with something or another. In fact, it wasn't uncommon to hear, "Bye mom, I'm going swimming, see you later." All of a sudden we were down to 1 child and it was remarkably easy. I can't imagine what we will do when Cecilia is old enough to just go and play.

Shortly after camp, we had a baptism. My oldest friend (as in length of friendship not age) and her husband recently had a beautiful baby boy and Patrick and I are honored to be his godparents. So we took all 3 kids on an adventure to Minnesota for a weekend. I was very nervous about said road trip as the kids have never been in the car for longer than 2 1/2 hours and even that is long for them. But I packed the car with fun activities and loads of snacks and the car ride went remarkably well with very few "Are we there yets?" It was wonderful to spend time with Liz and her new family and it was especially wonderful because Liz is Jack's godmother so now he has a godcousin.

On this trip, Patrick was offered a job in Neenah. It is with a great company and after a lot of consideration (maybe not enough) he has decided to take it. He starts mid August and is very exciting. That however means that we will be selling our home and moving, provided we can sell our home and find a new place. It is a giant leap of faith that things will work out and has left my stomach in knots constantly since. It is hard to think of selling our little house that we have called home for not just 6 years but so many memories of first words, first steps, first days of school. We have put a lot of time and effort into making our house a home and it truly feels that way to us. The thought of leaving is heartbreaking on a daily basis. The move will be great for the kids with a great school district, a wonderful parks and rec department and closer to friends and family. I think Patrick will be much happier at his new job too. So pray for us that everything works out and we can sell our house for what we need. Also pray for me that I don't develop an ulcer or have a nervous breakdown in the meantime.

I know this is a lot in one entry but I thought I should do some catching up. I will keep you all posted as to any new developments.

Jack's Birthday

2009-05-29T10:39:00.005-05:00

So long overdue, but Jack's Birthday was great. He had asked me to make him shark cupcakes and they turned out great. In fact as soon as he woke up, he immediately asked to see them so I took him to the refrigerator and told him to close his eyes. When he opened them, complete joy! He loved them. "Mom, the teeth look so sharp, the mouths are so red and I love the rough water." He was so proud to bring them to school. It really made the late night so worth it.

This year, Jack decided he wanted to have a friend party this year. So we invited some of his friends from school to our house for a Lego party. We played Lego games, had a Lego scavenger hunt, broke a pinata, had cake and ice cream and opened presents. The party lasted about 2 hours and went very well. We had a great time and there were just the right amount of kids and activities. It gave me the confidence to do it again. The best part was that the party started at 1:00 and was over and totally cleaned up by 4:15. It was great! And he had a blast. I still can't believe my boy is 6 years old but at least he had a great time celebrating.

...

2009-05-19T09:00:00.005-05:00

That's how I am feeling lately. I am in a constant battle with a toddler, every day all day. It is an unending battle of wills and every time I feel like she is giving in, she hops right back up. It is everything from sneaking out of the house, keeping clothes on, keeping a diaper on, staying in bed to not hitting or biting. I have tried every parenting trick I know and am left with an empty shell of me. I have nothing left to give. I live for nap time (when I can get her down) and bed time when she finally succumbs. Then I feel guilty to for that because I should be enjoying her more. I am just worn out trying to get through the day. Cecilia is the most strong-willed, stubborn and head strong child I have ever encountered. I love her with ever fiber of my being but some days I wonder if I will ever get through to her. And then I think if this is how she is at two how will I ever survive her teenage years. I feel like I am failing and drowning in this and I can't see a light at the end of the tunnel.

********Update********

Since last writing this, Cecilia pulled her dresser down on herself. She is fine, I on the other hand have a sore back and neck from pulling the dresser up. Thank goodness the toy box was there so the dresser didn't completely crush her. It will be a miracle if this child makes it to 3!

Happy Birthday Jack!!!!

2009-05-08T12:20:00.002-05:00

My little man is 6 years old today. It seems almost unfathomable. Wasn't it just yesterday that I was holding this brand new baby boy and introducing him to his not yet 2 year old big sister. Wasn't it just yesterday that I brought him home from the hospital just in time for Mother's Day? Wasn't it just yesterday that I was rocking him to sleep? I am a very sentimental person so every birthday I am flooded with memories. Like how he couldn't pronounce his words right and all he wanted to go to sleep was his "urtle rankie." Or the one Christmas he was convinced that Santa was going to bring him a "rain able" and Papa Vohen came to the rescue by building him the best and strongest train table that ever was. Or how we would snuggle in the morning and watch "The Wiggles" and how my heart broke when I was so pregnant with Cecilia that we couldn't both fit on the couch anymore. How he would ask for me to sing him "The Candle Song" and "The Rainbow Song." Or how when my parents had to put our dog down, and I was sad and crawled into bed with Jack, how he stroked my hair and sang in the sweetest little 2 year old voice "You are My Sunshine." How when he came up to the hospital to see his new baby sister and even though he really wanted a little brother, when he saw her, he came up and kissed her little forehead and said, "Oh mom, a baby sister. It's just want I wanted." Even now, as I type this, tears run down my cheek. Now as the fleeting days of childhood are disappearing and he is turning from a little boy to a big boy, I am filled with bittersweet emotions. So Happy Birthday Jack, my precious boy. You have brought so much joy to my life and I hope that all your wishes come true!

Is there such a thing as a Self-less Good Deed?

2009-05-07T10:54:00.002-05:00

So I have been volunteering at lot lately and trying to do better all around. Well through all this, I am remembering an episode of Friends where Phoebe prides herself on good deeds but Chandler tells her there is no such thing as a Selfless Good Deed because it makes the good deed doer feel good. So I find myself feeling a little bit guilty that my volunteers makes me feel good, like I am doing something good for my community and then does that make it selfish.

Volunteering is almost addictive for me. I am always wondering if there is more that I can do, other places to lend a hand, make someone feel better or appreciated. Then I go back to that Friends episode and wonder if it is indeed selfish because I feel so much better when I give back.

So my 2 readers, what do you think? Is it selfish to do good deeds or is there such a thing as a selfless good deed?

Recommitting

2009-05-07T10:51:00.002-05:00

I realize I have neglected my blog. I am sorry. I have failed the 2 people who actually read this thing. But good news, my 2 readers, I am recommitting. I am determined to do better than posting once every 2 months (and let's face it that's being generous.)

Introducing Lilly Louise

2009-02-27T23:03:00.003-06:00

Patrick and I have been "discussing" getting a second dog for a while now. Tonight, after Cecilia sending her daddy many emails over the past couple of weeks and showing him pictures on the Humane Society website and saying "puppo." Well, tonight Emily and Jack were at their aunt and uncle's house playing and Patrick decided that we could just go "look." So we piled a very excited Cecilia in the car to look at the dogs. There were so many beautiful dogs many of them puppies. We fell in love with a black puppy who came up to the glass and tried to lick Cecilia right through it. So we put in our paperwork and waited to meet her. We looked around for awhile. A vet tech brought a beautiful puppy out from having surgery. Ceci walked right up to her and took the lease. She walked the puppy around the humane society. It warmed my heart. She was a sweet dog and if she had been available, I think we would have brought her home.

Well, after a long, long while waiting, we were up and we got to meet the black puppy. So we played with the little puppy and she was so sweet and she crawled right up in my lap and started licking me. I joked that I knew she was our dog because she peed right by the drain. She is very smart. But when Cecilia pulled her tail and she came back to her and licked her, we knew she was coming home. Surprisingly through this all, my husband, the man who said we would never get another dog, was very calm and accepting of all of this. We got to Patrick's brothers house and Patrick went in and asked the kids if they wante

d their birthday present now or later. (They have no idea we were even thinking about getting a puppy.) Well, they of course said, "Now, Now." So I brought her into the house. They went wild. They were so happy. We gave them a choice of names and Lilly it was. And I couldn't think of a better name for her. So far the transition with Digger and the cats is going very smoothly. Digger didn't bark and doesn't seem to mind her at all and the cats, well, so far so good. But we knew they would be the harder sell. So without further ado, I give you pictures of our sweet little girl. I am crazy...I know!

Random Thoughts...

2009-02-12T09:13:00.002-06:00

I'm stealing this idea from my friend Liz and just share some tidbits of stuff that is going on with us lately with more details to follow.

* We did get away for a weekend to the Dells. We stayed at the Wilderness resort in a beautiful condo. It was so good for the kids to be able to run and play and it was so nice to still be able to cook our own meals.

* Cecilia turned 2 on Sunday! I can't believe how quickly she has grown. She still thinks she is 5 but her body is starting to catch up with her mind. She has shown a little bit of interest in the potty and has made it a few times. We had a nice little party with family and she had a blast. She fell asleep in her Aunt Lindsay's arms.

* Emily is thriving at school and has an avid appetite for reading and is doing great at studying multiplication. Her current book of choice is Nancy Drew. She wanted to read some mysteries and that was as close to appropriate for her age as I could find. She can read far beyond her age and finding books that have concepts appropriate for a 7 year old but can challenge her reading level has been well, challenging.

* Jack is loving kindergarten. He is starting to learn to read and is smart as a whip. He has started playing basketball at the Y and he loves going! He is fighting a bug that has been going through our house. Hopefully, he will feel better in time for his Valentine's party at school tomorrow.

* Patrick is working hard and long hours. He is starting to get a little run down and I am hoping for a nice relaxing weekend.

* I have been working on planning the winter carnival at the kids school among other things.

* We had a wonderful taste of spring this week and I am looking forward to those cool days of spring, flowers blooming, birds chirping, budding trees. I am actually done with winter which must mean I am getting older because normally I live for winter. Or maybe it is just that I need the kids to be able to play outside on a regular basis.

* Santa blessed our family with Wii for Christmas. Lately we have had Friday night Wii nights (as Emily calls them.) Pizza and Wii as a family. We have a great time and it is nice to be able to spend some time doing something as a family that we all enjoy.

Well, that's the happenings in our house as a late. Nothing too exciting which is probably why I haven't blogged in a while. Hopefully, I will feel more inspired soon.

Cabin Fever

2009-01-15T12:53:00.003-06:00

Well, It is mid January and the Cabin Fever has officially set in. The cold weather the past couple days is not helping much. I envision our family on warm sunny beaches. I actually find myself scouring travel sites for too good to be true deals with the fantasy of whisking our family away somewhere warm even if it is for just a couple of days. It is so cold here schools are cancelled and I getting antsy for warmth. Don't get me wrong, I love winter but I am exhausted it by it right now. Please, oh please, I need a vacation!

Isn't She Gone Yet?

2009-01-09T11:46:00.003-06:00

Here we are 11 days from the inauguration of a new president and Sarah Palin has once again made it into the news. She was interviewed for some documentary or something like that on how Obama won the election. Seriously, someone should tell her to fade away from the public eye for awhile and enjoy her grandchild. She actually said that she wouldn't have gotten as much bad press if she had been a democratic candidate. Seriously? Do you not remember Hillary? She did not get all that much good press either and I'd take Hillary over Sarah any day. This morning as I am watching this segment I feel myself getting more and more irritated. I am done with her. When will she disappear from the mainstream. Probably when she stops doing and saying stupid things. So I guess, we are stuck with her for a very long time....

Big Kid News

2009-01-07T12:16:00.002-06:00

So last night, I was giving baths and it was Cecilia's turn. Normally she goes right for the tub. Well, last night, she sat on her little potty and said "pee." Now, this is not my first time at the fair. She has been showing interest for a while now but I am not delusional and actually expect anything to happen. It took Em and Jack forever to get there. Well, I was brushing Emily's hair and talking to Patrick about something and I feel a tug on my shirt. I look down and there is my naked girl and she is pointing to the potty. I look and sure enough, she went pee pee in the potty. There was a lot of jumping up and down and screaming and clapping and she was loving every minute of it. I was so proud of my sassy little girl!

Wrestling with the possibility of an idea....

2009-01-04T22:50:00.002-06:00

Before I start, I want to preface this with that I am not nor do I have any plans to become.....

pregnant. Now that I have cleared the air, there was an article in the paper today about autism and how it is on the rise in women who get pregnant over the age of 35 and men who have children over the age of 40. That prompted an ongoing yet tabled discussion between Patrick and I about the possibility of us maybe having a 4th child someday down the road. And with me recently turning...ahem 30 cough, cough.... and Patrick turning 35 on Tuesday we sort of revisited the conversation...sort of. As in:

Me: Well, if we would decide to have another baby, I would want to do it within the next 5 years for that and many other reasons.

Patrick: Yeah...

End of conversation. Now, I completely understand that this is not something we really need to decide right now, nor should we because if we made a decision this late in the night with a screaming toddler who we have been struggling to get to go to sleep for the last 2 hours, unsuccessfully (she is VERY strong willed) the answer would be a clear and fervent NO! But and that is a big but, in my heart, it is not totally out of the question. And there is so much to weigh into the decision. Could we really fit another person in our small and already crowded house? Would we have to buy a new house, would we build on to this one and could we afford to do that? Obviously in this economy, the financial questions take a front seat and are overwhelming but beyond that come the questions of am I really up for another child. Do I think I will be up for another child...even in 5 years? Could I balance 3 children and a pregnancy? Could I balance 4 children and all of their activities and needs and somehow make time for my husband and myself? Could I do the bottles and the diapers and the colic all over again? And yet, with all these questions, there's a tug on my heart strings at the thought of growing another baby, feeling those flutters, falling in love all over again, the smell and the coos and the milestones. And the feeling that somehow our family isn't quite complete...

So well, I don't actually have any answers and I probably won't for a very long time...well, until we decide. But, those are the thoughts that flood through my head, especially after reading an article in the paper, but they flood me when I make beds, or do laundry, or think about going back to school or work. These are life changing decisions and since I am not sure that Patrick is even close to being on the same page or willing to even discuss it, I am left with an uneasy feeling of wondering what the next 5 years holds.

Grieving..

2008-12-28T23:28:00.002-06:00

As the hectic and wonderful days of Christmas are coming to a close, I am reminded of the great blessings in my life. That reminder comes from the loss of a person I never met personally. I knew of her and I read her words, but we never even shared so much as an email, never talked on the phone, never met. And yet, the loss of her, affects me to my core. Maybe it was because she was a mother of two young boys, battling cancer and she was so open and honest about it in her writing that you truly did feel as if you knew her. She shared her fight with cancer so truthfully, but she was so truthful in all her writings, whether it be about family vacations, turning 40, the birth of her children. She was witty and she was the kind of person that you just know lit up a room (though I have no way of knowing if this is actually true.) I think that if we had met, I would have loved her. She was a part of my morning...email, my friend Liz's blog, Emilie's blog... When I read her entries, I was moved to laughter, to tears. So as you can imagine when she posted about entering hospice, my heart saddened. Then I found out she might not make it to Christmas...I prayed. I prayed they would have this last Christmas together as a family as I am sure so many close to her did. Our prayers were unanswered as she passed away late on the 23rd.

Even as I type the words, there are tears in my eyes. I feel the world has lost an incredible woman and I know her family friends feel that way. She once wrote that she didn't want to be referred to as strong because she had cancer. Well, she was strong. She was fighting the cancer, the possibility of not watching her children grow up, and leaving them when they are so young and yet, through all of this, she let us into her life through her writing. When she had a bad day, or week, even, she shared. She was a truly amazing person and though I don't have the privilege of calling her my friend, she has touched my life in a way that I will never be the same. She reminds me to cherish the moments of my life more deeply, hug my children more tightly and live life more fully. So for that, Emilie, I will be forever grateful for you have touched more lives that you could have ever imagined. If you care to read more about Emilie and her courageous fight please visit her blog at Lemmondrops.

Happy Days!

2008-12-04T12:51:00.002-06:00

Just thought I would put up a quick post about my brand new laptop and how much I love it. I love it! I am a mac girl and I am so excited to have a new MacBook. It's the little things about it really, the fact that the screen isn't falling off, and that I can actually put cds or dvds in it and get them out again but the thing I love the most is that the battery actually charges!

And my Christmas tree is up! Not decorated mind you but up and thank goodness for my brother-in-law who is playing stay at home dad this week so his wife can start her new job because he came over to help me put it up! Thanks Brad!

So the house smells of evergreen and I am happy. Tonight I will be stringing lights and garland and hanging all of my favorite ornaments, remembering the year we got them and reminiscing about the past Christmases. Hope your days will be as bright!

Thanks and Giving...

2008-12-02T14:33:00.002-06:00

Well, Thanksgiving is over and there are all sorts of things that we are especially grateful for this year: our 3 beautiful and healthy children, our family, that we are blessed with my brother, Jake for one more holiday. It was a nice holiday and now we are back to the task at hand...

Giving. It seems this holiday season is shorter than ever and busier than ever. I am a little unsure of how everything that I normally do, will ever get done. I have already scrapped making my own cards...something I have done for a couple years now and truly enjoy doing. So readers, if you normally get a card from me, they will be of the store bought variety this year. Some traditions are not to be skipped: cookie baking, live mannequins, The Nutcracker, Eddie the Elf, and St. Nick among others. It seems going back to traditions every year makes the holidays all the more enjoyable. Somehow, I am sure I will muddle through all the normal chaos of the holidays and even with all the chaos, I really do enjoy this time of year. So enjoy your busy days ahead, I know that even with all the stress, I will.

I am a Marilyn!?!

2008-11-18T23:03:00.003-06:00

So my friend Liz took this quiz and she inspired me to take it too. I think some things are pretty accurate and other things, I question. So I posted my results below. What do you think? Am I truly a Marilyn. Then you can always take the quiz yourself and see who you are. And the quiz is only 2 questions!

Your result for Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz...

You Are a Marilyn!

You are a Marilyn -- "I am affectionate and skeptical."

Marilyns are responsible, trustworthy, and value loyalty to family, friends, groups, and causes. Their personalities range broadly from reserved and timid to outspoken and confrontative.

How to Get Along with Me

* Be direct and clear

* Listen to me carefully

* Don't judge me for my anxiety

* Work things through with me

* Reassure me that everything is OK between us

* Laugh and make jokes with me

* Gently push me toward new experiences

* Try not to overreact to my overreacting.

What I Like About Being a Marilyn

* being committed and faithful to family and friends

* being responsible and hardworking

* being compassionate toward others

* having intellect and wit

* being a nonconformist

* confronting danger bravely

* being direct and assertive

What's Hard About Being a Marilyn

* the constant push and pull involved in trying to make up my mind

* procrastinating because of fear of failure; having little confidence in myself

* fearing being abandoned or taken advantage of

* exhausting myself by worrying and scanning for danger

* wishing I had a rule book at work so I could do everything right

* being too critical of myself when I haven't lived up to my expectations

Marilyns as Children Often

* are friendly, likable, and dependable, and/or sarcastic, bossy, and stubborn

* are anxious and hypervigilant; anticipate danger

* form a team of "us against them" with a best friend or parent

* look to groups or authorities to protect them and/or question authority and rebel

* are neglected or abused, come from unpredictable or alcoholic families, and/or take on the fearfulness of an overly anxious parent

Marilyns as Parents

* are often loving, nurturing, and have a strong sense of duty

* are sometimes reluctant to give their children independence

* worry more than most that their children will get hurt

* sometimes have trouble saying no and setting boundaries

Take Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz at HelloQuizzy

Renewed!

2008-11-05T14:01:00.002-06:00

I have thought and thought about what I could write about this new chapter in American History that has unfolded before us that hasn't already been said. I wanted to be profound and I am left with no words.

No words can express the renewed hope that washes over me, the profound joy that encompasses me and the pride that beams from me. There simply are no words.

I watched with baited breath last night, filling in state by state on Emily's map for school. I did wake both Emily and Jack up when President-elect Obama spoke. As I sat with my children in my lap on the floor last night watching and listening, embracing and sharing this amazing moment with my children, the tears flowed down my cheeks. I know they don't understand the magnitude of last night and that is another thing for which I am thankful. They will not remember a time when it wasn't possible.

My hope for their future is renewed. My hope for this country is renewed.

In Awe...

2008-11-04T10:03:00.003-06:00

This morning, I took the kids to school and then Cecilia and I headed over to vote. I was actually surprised, I only waited 20 minutes in line which with a 20 month old, is important to choose your voting time wisely. She waited very nicely in line and held my hand.

Every time I vote, I get a little emotional. I am hopeful and privileged. I think it is one of the things that we take for granted in our life and I'm glad that I feel that way when I vote. It reminds me that I do have a say in what happens to our country. Also, every time I vote, I think of my kids. I know this is maybe silly but I think about how the decisions that the next president makes, truly will affect the country for them. As long as I live, I hope that the emotion I feel on election day stays with me. It is a welcome reminder that even though I don't always agree with what is happening in our country, I have a say it what will happen in the future.

When we were done voting, we each got an I voted sticker, which Cecilia thought was the best thing ever! And we stopped by the school bake sale and got some cookies. Cookies for a very patient voter. She actually was more excited about the sticker!

Happy Voting everyone! Get out there and have your say!

Happy Birthday Jacob!

2008-10-29T20:45:00.002-05:00

Today is Jacob's 22nd Birthday. We will be celebrating Friday night after trick or treating but today is his actual birthday. I can say with certainty that this is a day I don't think anyone ever thought we would see especially after the news we got last December. It is a wonderful day. Somehow, he is holding on and we are given the blessing of another birthday with our boy. It is amazing to think that we still have him here with us. It seems that God wants us to have a little more time with him and I am so happy and grateful for each day we are blessed with. As Emily would say, "We have more time to make more memories."

So Jacob, Happy 22nd Birthday! We love you so much and are so happy to have had this past year with you! We'll see you Friday!

Feeling Bad...

2008-10-22T14:14:00.002-05:00

I am feeling bad for a couple of reasons. One, I have bronchitis and Two, I have not updated our blog in a very long time. I have pictures of first day of school, Emily's Birthday and Katie's wedding. And soon, Halloween and I promise that in the next couple of days, I will get them up.

Here's a quick low down on what is going on here:
Emily has started and is thriving in 2nd grade although she would want everyone to know that she goes to 3rd grade for math.
Jack is loving kindergarten and is in the beginning stages of learning to read.
Cecilia is enjoying going to school when we can and playing with her new friend, the little boy that we watch a couple of days a week.
Patrick is working much too hard but if given the option of working much too hard or not enough in this economy, he'll work much too hard.
I am working on getting healthy and catching up with all the stuff that fell by the wayside while I was sick, like sewing costumes and laundry and getting ready for Halloween. Hopefully, I'll get caught up in the next couple of days and we'll be good to go for the spooktacular holiday.
That's all I really have time for right now, but I promise to get back soon.

I just want to also say Congratulations to Jenny and Eric on the birth of their son. Congratulations to Katie and Kurt on their wedding, it was beautiful. And Congratulations to Liz and Chris on their pregnancy. Blessings all around, isn't it wonderful!

The End of Days...

2008-08-22T15:36:00.005-05:00

Summer days that is. Here it is, the last weekend of summer, for us anyways. The kids go back to school on Thursday (thank God!) and we are left with one final, wonderful weekend. The plans are a little bit sketchy but fun will be had, hopefully.

It seems the summer just flew by. We spent one wonderful week at Onaway Family Camp, which was relaxing and enjoyable with many new memories. It is one week we look forward to all year long.

We had a wonderful weekend fishing at my grandparents cottage. Jack learned to ride his 2 wheeler, Cecilia learned to climb up and down stairs. Emily spent some time at Gigi's. We all did. We had a great couple of days there with my parents and Jake. We had a great week of mini-vacation with my good friend Liz. They came and stayed with us for a few days and we did some things around Milwaukee, hung out and played games. It was very nice and lastly the kids, yes all 3 of them, went to visit their grandparents for a few days. It was very relaxing. I can't remember the last time I was able to be alone in my own house for more than an hour or two.

So school starts soon and while I have a few million things to do before then, but all in all, it was a pretty relaxing summer. Looking forward to the quiet that comes with Thursday!

A Day of Nothings...

2008-07-10T12:29:00.002-05:00

Today is the first day in a LONG time that I don't HAVE to do anything or be anywhere. Yes, there are things that I could do, iron laundry, clean the house, etc. But, for the most part, the house is pretty clean, laundry done, not ironed but clean and I have the day to do with it what I want. Sure there are places I could go, things that I could do. But today is for relaxing and I am doing my best not to feel guilty about it. I have a lot of stress in my life right now and so I am choosing to do "nothing" today. Maybe, I'll get the sprinkler out and play in the water with the kids!

Apologies

2008-07-08T12:30:00.003-05:00

Yes, I know it has been a very long time since my last post and for all I know, I have lost all readers but for what it is worth, I am sorry. Life sort of got away from me between birthday parties, teacher appreciation luncheons, kids ending school, getting ready for camp and a one year old who thinks she is 4, I had little to no time to blog. So yes, eventually I'll get pictures and postings on all that has happened in the past two months.

In the meantime, however, I am faced with a sadness that seems to envelope me and at the same time, a realization of how lucky I am to have 3 beautiful healthy children. I am disheartened by the crumbling of an organization that I hold dear to my heart. Not only has it provided me with opportunities I never would have had without it, friendships that are stronger than any other I have ever had, it has helped shape the person I am today. The hardest part is watching from afar, a feeling like there is nothing I can do to save it, having to turn my back on it to save it.

More importantly, I am faced with the failing health of my brother. He barely eats anymore and here I am 90 miles away and with gas prices, I might as well be 1000 miles away. He not only baffles me but also the hospice nurse who can't figure out why his heartbeat is so strong and his appetite all but gone.

So on this amazingly hot and cloudy day, I am pondering all of this and reaching out for answers and finding none. Hopefully, some will come to me soon and with positive responses...

Mommy's Little Helper...

2008-04-28T14:55:00.002-05:00

On Saturday, we cleaned the house. A chore I loathe but it had to be done. Fortunately for me, my little girl loves to help. Here she is helping me dust! Finally, a child that will help! We'll see how long this lasts though...

Graduation Day

2008-04-28T14:36:00.006-05:00

Well, for those of you who do not know, Jack has been in speech therapy since he was 18 months old. He was born tongue-tied and it greatly affected his speech. This past month, we had his IEP and he is pretty much done with speech. He has most of his sounds and the ones he doesn't have are age-appropriate. So with the exception of a few "checking in" appointments with his speech therapist, he is done. A long road...traveled.

Now, most kids would be thrilled at the prospect of not having to go to speech once a week. Not my Jack. He cried. He loved speech. He was very disappointed to know that this was done. So as any mother does, I was thinking on my feet. "Well, Jack, let's have a graduation party." He was thrilled. We waited until everyone in our family was over their illnesses and finally had his party on Thursday.

We got his K4 teacher involved and we brought in cupcakes for his class and we celebrated his graduation. He had a great time.

These are the bug cupcakes I made. They were a big hit, so cute and really easy to make!

As you can see, Cecilia loved her cupcake too!

Then that night, Jack got to pick out his favorite foods for supper and I made it. Patrick brought home a balloon for him and he got a little present. He thought it was great and he is not so sad about not having speech anymore. It didn't take a lot of planning and it made all the difference. I love it when things turn out like that!

Something I promised myself I'd never do....

2008-04-28T14:27:00.002-05:00

Okay, so today is the day for backlogged blogging! But, what can you do! So when I was a little girl, my mom used to dress my little sister and I the same. We HATED it! One of those things that I said I would never, never do to my own children, along with never saying "Because I said so." or "Because I'm your mother." among others....all of which, I have done. Well, this Easter, I couldn't resist. I found beautiful, springlike and yes MATCHING outfits for the kids. Before you shake your heads in shame at me, in my defense, Emily LOVES matching with her sister. They have matching pajamas and matching sweaters. Whenever, she can, she likes to match her sister. Now, I am fully aware that someday this will change but for now, she loves it and it is so gosh darn cute! So here are their matching outfits for Easter. They are so cute!

Happy Belated Birthday!

2008-04-28T13:39:00.005-05:00

I know, I know. I promised pictures of Cecilia's birthday party ages ago. But, it is cold outside and quiet inside and I have finally cleaned out my camera. So I am ready to post about the big 1 year old party. We had a nice little party with our family. She had a great day! She loved opening presents. Really, she pretty much did it all on her own. So here are a handful of the dozens and dozens of pictures we have. Enjoy!

*This opening presents thing is really fun!*

*Look! I got my very own wheels!*

*Read me another card, Mom!*

*It's just what I always wanted!*
*I'm one years old!*

*Happy Birthday to me!**This might taste good!**It DOES taste good!*
*I really need a bath!*

The whole Pirwitz family!

All in all, it was a great day and it was so wonderful to share it with family. What a difference a year makes!

Four Months

2008-04-21T20:51:00.004-05:00

Well, it has been about 4 months since the doctors have stopped treatment on Jacob. 4 months. We are constantly aware that every day is a gift. But Jake is so strong, sometimes I forget how strong he is. He is still at school. I am in awe that everyday, he still goes to school. Sometimes, he goes home early but for the most part, he is still there. And his teachers are amazing. They help him with oxygen, they give him morphine when he needs it and they honestly want him there. There are good days and there are bad days. You can tell when he is in pain. But I have to say, my parents have been doing an exceptional job with managing his pain.

An odd, yet amazing thing...Jake is notorious for pulling threads out of blankets. It's just something he has always done. Well, my friend Liz gave him a prayer shawl for Christmas (and it's blue so it matches perfectly with his favorite chair) and he sits with it everyday and he has not pulled it out...not a single thread. It's like he knows that every thread is full of prayers. Thank you, Liz.

I am almost afraid to write it, but I still wonder how long we will have with him. I feel like we have been living on borrowed time for so long now that I don't know how much more time we can ask for. And yet, I can't help but hope and think that it is Jake and he defies expectations.

Thank God for Small Miracles....

2008-04-11T08:53:00.003-05:00

Yay! Jack made it into school today without any tears. I know that this seems silly and trivial but I can't remember the last time it happened. I am so happy but I am also not crazy...I know that this probably won't be the end of the tears but for now, I am just going to enjoy it. Well, off to swimming lessons with the babe...

Long Time...No Post...

2008-04-07T09:01:00.003-05:00

Okay, so for the three of you that read my blog every once in a while, I apologize. I haven't posted in over a month. My only excuse is that things here with three kids are insanely busy. So, I'll give you a note or two about what is going on here.

-In case you haven't heard, it is finally spring. Thank the Lord. The kids can play outside, the windows in the house are open and the smell of spring is in the air! So happy!

-I finished organizing my new scrapbook area and I am super excited to start scrapbooking. It isn't a big area, mind you, but it is mine and it is organized and I don't have to put everything away every time I decide to do a layout. YAY!

-Update on Emily: She had and finally recovered from pneumonia and is now battling a double ear infection. The poor girl just can't catch a break. The upside is she is feeling much better and is happy to be able to play outside with all of her friends. She is doing very well in school and has her first ballet recital in a month. How exciting!

-Update on Jack: He is having a rough time going to school. He loves it once he gets in the swing of things but cries non-stop in the morning and I don't know what is causing this and what I can do to fix it. But, he is happy to get outside and he likes to hang out with Mom which is still a really nice feeling. We had a great day together running errands on Saturday.

-Update on Cecilia: She is pure TROUBLE! She is in to everything and I mean everything. She climbs, discovers things and unrolls the toilet paper. But she is a happy girl and her smile just melts my heart. She is busy, busy, busy and she loves to put on her brother and sisters hats but will not keep her own hat on.

-Patrick has started to ride the bus to work. It is great. He leaves a little earlier in the morning and he is home by 5:30 at night. It is saving us a ton on parking alone. Not to mention the gas savings. A benefit to living in the city!

-Oh, we took Emily and Jack to Chicago for a couple of days over spring break. We went to the museums and of course, IKEA! We had a great time with them and Cecilia had a great time with her Grandma and Papa Pirwitz. I think she was a little disappointed when she got home and realized she had to share us with her brother and sister again.

Other than that, stuff is pretty normal. I promise to get some pictures posted soon. I just always forget to download my pictures from my camera but it is on my list of things to do! Have a great day!

The Big One

2008-02-18T09:39:00.001-06:00

Well, Cecilia turned one on February 8th. We had a very nice party and she loved her birthday cake and I promise that over the next couple of days I will get a proper post with pictures up soon.

A little Trivia for Monday...

2008-02-18T09:22:00.003-06:00

My good friend Liz from Lunar Goat has tagged me for a little get-to-know you trivia. I'm not sure if I have that much too share, but here it goes.

The rules:
1) Link to the person who tagged you.
2) Post the rules.
3) Share six non-important things / habits / quirks about yourself.
4) Tag at least three people.
5) Make sure the people you tagged KNOW you tagged them by commenting what you did.

1) I have an unhealthy addiction to America's Next Top Model. The addiction started when I was on the phone with my friend Nancy. We live very far apart so we sometimes watch television together. We started with Sex and the City and then she told me to turn on ANTM and there was a 4 day marathon. I'm sad to say that all I did over those four days was watch ANTM but Patrick got addicted too! And I am very excited as the next cycle starts on Wednesday.

2) I have very little hands...and feet. Seriously...very little.

3) I have always had a dream to learn to play the guitar. I bought oneand started to teach myself how to play. I soon discovered that my hands are too little to play some of the chords. So, I want to take lessons but unfortunately, it is not in the budget right now.

4) I want to take a family vacation to Disney World. Not only because I want to see the joy on Emily and Jack's faces but also because I have never been but have always wanted to go.

5) I can not water ski. I have tried and tried but I can not water ski. I do, however, have a strange ability to teach kids how to water ski....

6) I used to do stained glass. I was good, in fact, I even made a lamp. If we ever built a house, I would have a huge craft room with room to take that up again. It is incredibly relaxing and rewarding.

Now I am supposed to tag someone but here's the thing, I don't know that many people with blogs so if you are reading this and have a blog, I challenge you! If not, and want to share some trivia with me, post it in my comment section.

SNOW DAY!!!

2008-02-06T17:41:00.001-06:00

Hello, all! Here in Milwaukee, we are in the middle of a blizzard! We are at about 14" and counting. It has been snowing nonstop and the winds are a-blowin'! The kids are home from school and Patrick was let home from work early. And you know the weather is bad when.....the malls close! Yup, every mall in the area is closed! There is something spectacular about a huge snow storm. With the exception of the constant humming of snow-blowers, the world seems to stop. It's like it is God's way of saying, "You've worked hard, take a day off. It's snowing, the roads are bad, just stay home, enjoy your kids and relax." It is wonderful and for awhile, before the roads get better and people start driving, it is beautiful! Now, I know no everyone will agree with me, but I LOVE this weather. It makes me so happy and I can't imagine being anywhere else. Nevertheless, I will be glad when the kids go back to school tomorrow!

Baby, It's Cold Outside....

2008-01-30T10:45:00.001-06:00

It is FREEZING outside! Almost every school in our area is closed...well, except our school. I bundled the kids up. They looked like the kids in A Christmas Story just to get out to the car. There are 8 kids in Emily's class today.

Don't get me wrong. I LOVE winter. I love it when it is snowy and cold, but....this is CRAZY cold. The wind just whips right through you. The dog doesn't even want to go outside. At least this cold spell won't last too much longer. Stay warm everyone!

The Laundro-matic!

2008-01-29T09:13:00.000-06:00

Well, yesterday as I went downstairs to tackle the mountains of laundry that have accumulated over the last couple of days, I put a load in and my wash machine started making a scary sound. I go to check on it and sure enough, it isn't spinning or agitating or anything except filling and draining.

So we called the repair guy, (thank god our washer is still under warranty) and I got the 6 words no woman wants to hear; "I'll have to order the parts." Which means it could be over a week before it gets fixed. Now, I realize this isn't a huge deal in the scheme of things but to a family a 5 with 3 young children...3 very messy young children...who wear uniforms to school, this is a HUGE inconvience.

So last night I dredged all my laundry to the laundromat and proceeded to start the laundry but of course, the quarter machine wasn't working. After about 20 minutes, and one kind stranger later, I was well on my way.

All in all, it wasn't horrible. I was able to get tons of laundry done in about 2 hours. I could fold it without cats or dogs or little fingers interrupting me and the laundromat was very quiet. I didn't get as much reading done as I would have liked but I got into a nice rhythm.

I remember the days when I took all our laundry to the laundromat...back in the days of just Patrick and I, when we only had 4 or 5 loads for a whole week. Ahhh.... I actually liked the quiet of the laundromat and as I folded the mountains of laundry last night...I realized how far we have come in the past 6 years. Lots of changes to our little family. And while, I desperately hope my parts come in sooner rather than later, I guess, I don't mind dredging the laundry out again. In fact, I may look forward to it...just a very tiny bit.

Meanest Mom in the World....

2008-01-22T13:28:00.000-06:00

It's official. The torch has been passed. No longer do I have the meanest mom in the world, I have become the meanest mom in the world. This has been a long time coming. I have been campaigning since Emily and Jack could talk. With every, "You're mean" or "I'm not your boy anymore," I became a vote closer.

I thought I had a while before Cecilia could feel that way about me but apparently, my fate has been solidified. With the other kids, I have to give them time outs or ground them to elicit such strong response. Not Cecilia. All I have to do is look at her and tell her, "No." It's not even a mean voice. Just an assertive no and she bursts into tears. Real tears.

I guess I should take comfort in the fact that the tears leave as quickly as they came but still. I should probably embrace this role as I am sure to covet the title for at least 20 -25 years. At least until Emily has children of her own and I can pass the torch to her.

A year goes by so fast...

2008-01-12T22:26:00.000-06:00

Well, the holiday festivites are over, my house is almost void of Christmas decorations and I am still trying to remember to date my checks with 2008 instead of 2007. Our holidays were pleasant, maybe the most we have relaxed in a while. I also think that in the back of all of our minds was, is this Jake's last Christmas? But we just embraced being together.

Today, a huge milestone occurred in our house. We no longer have a baby. Cecilia is officially a toddler. Yes, she took her first real steps today...during the 2nd quarter of the Packer game. There was so much joyful cheering in our house this afternoon. She would toddle between Patrick and I and then back again. She was so proud of herself. Then tonight when Emily and Jack were in bed, we were up for round 2. She would take steps away from furniture. The joy that spread across her face was indescribable.

And even now, I can't help but smile at the accomplishment of my not quite 1 year old. And at this incredible moment of joy, I can't help but be a bit sad at the thought that my baby is no longer a baby. She will be 1 year old in less than a month and I am wondering where the past year went. Just last year at this time, I was incredibly uncomfortable and anxious. Anxious to meet this little one that was sure to steal my heart. We didn't even know if she would be a girl or a boy and now, we are relishing in the joy of her first steps. It just reminds me how time goes by so fast and yet, every day is a gift and a new adventure. My baby isn't a baby any longer. But she is an adventurous joy that will learn something new every day. They all give me the gift of joy every day and for that I am utterly in awe.

Much better today...

2007-12-21T12:26:00.000-06:00

Well, I am not as cynical today. My Christmas shopping is done, the kids are done with school and I have the rest of the weekend to prepare. We went to look at Christmas lights last night and I am reminded of the Christmas spirit. The kids are excited to be done with school and frankly, I am looking forward to a little break although, I don't think I will actually get much of a break but at least we won't have activites. I get to see family and friends and in 3 short days, all of my preparing will be done and I will be able to enjoy Christmas. It will be Cecilia's first Christmas and I am sure she will be more excited about eating wrapping paper than the actual presents. It will be a wonderful couple of weeks.

I will post pictures of the festivities as soon as I have them. If I don't get on before the holidays, I wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and I hope Santa is good to you all!

Twenty-Nine

2007-12-20T11:07:00.000-06:00

Today, I turn 29. I have no idea when I became an adult because it seems like just last week that I was in high school. As I get older, birthdays become more and more just another day. I woke up and got Em off to school. Jack is home today because of some gasto-intenstinal issues. Lucky me. I cleaned the house and am in the process of catching up on laundry. This afternoon, I am hoping to get some errands done. I was hoping to do some wrapping today but with Jack home, that won't be possible. It is just like any other day only on this day, I am older. Gone are the days of countdowns and classroom treats. In fact, if I want a cake, I have to bake it myself. I haven't had a birthday cake in years. So I guess I am a little cynical of birthdays. Oh well, back to laundry....

One more week...

2007-12-17T09:21:00.000-06:00

One more week to get everything done that I need to. That is not a lot of time and yet, surprisingly, I am not really that stressed out. I have Christmas cards to take care of today and shopping to be done. Of course there is wrapping and cooking and cleaning but there is also the kids Christmas Program at school, and their last session of swimming lessons for the year. Jack finishes up soccer this week and I turn 29! I am really looking forward to reading to the kids classes tomorrow. I am reading The Polar Express to Jack's class and my all time favorite Christmas story, An Orange for Frankie to Emily's class. If you haven't ever read that book, go to library and pick it up and you may need a box of Kleenex. It truly is the spirit of Christmas and reminds us of the magic of the season.

The holidays are upon us so "Merry Christmas to All" and may you all finish your shopping!

The busiest of weekends...

2007-12-17T09:06:00.001-06:00

This past weekend was crazy busy but in the best possible way. On Friday night, we continued our wonderful tradition of The Nutcracker. For the past couple of years, my mom, my grandma, Emily and I have gone to The Nutcracker. We love it. It really feels like the start of Christmas. Usually we sit in the Loge but this year since Emily is in the Milwaukee Ballet School we were able to get a discount so we sat in the Orchestra, Row F, dead center. It was amazing. We had a wonderful time.

Then on Saturday, my mom, my grandma and I go shopping. I actually got quite a bit done and this year, there was a snow storm. We got about 7 inches but it did not hinder the shopping experience. We have a great lunch at this little cafe that is quaint and in an old barn. The food is so good and we have such a nice day together. We can deal with the crowds because we just enjoy each other. We laughed a lot and all in all, it was a wonderful day.

Sunday morning was the kids Christmas Program at church. Emily and Jack did such a great job. They were so serious walking in but were so happy walking out. This year, they both sang all the songs and did all the actions. Emily is looking forward to next year when she can be a "character" in the program.

Right after church we rushed downtown for Patrick's graduation. He graduated from UW-Milwaukee. It was a long ceremony, especially with 3 small kids but they did pretty well and they were so proud of their dad. It was a wonderful feeling and I was so proud of Patrick. He worked so hard and so long and finally this road has come to an end. (Well, we hope. He still has two finals this week but I have the upmost confindence in him.) It will feel really nice when he finally gets his diploma.

Let it Snow....

2007-12-17T08:59:00.000-06:00

As many of you may know, I LOVE the snow. I can't get enough snow. So this month has been magical for me. It has snowed so much this month. Milwaukee has gotten over 23 inches of snow so far for December over 18 inches over average. It is so pretty and the kids love to play in it. There will be a white Christmas and that makes me so happy. I couldn't imagine a Christmas without the possibility of snow and here we have blankets of it... YAY!!!

Cookie Baking Extravaganza

2007-12-17T08:53:00.000-06:00

So last weekend, we had our annual Cookie Baking Extravaganza. My sister came down and we baked 4 different kinds of cookies and 2 kinds of candy. We bake all day on Saturday and Sunday. My cousins Katie and Michelle come over and help decorate cookies on Sunday. We baked butter spritzers, cut out sugar cookies, molasses and a new kind, 4 chocolate delights. We also made homemade peanut butter cups and homemade caramel. It was a successful weekend and we had a really good time. The kids were great helpers and the house smelled so good and now we have tons of wonderful cookies to enjoy!

Tree Farm

2007-12-17T08:33:00.000-06:00

So we had a wonderful Thanksgiving, lots of turkey and great food courtesy of my mom. She is such a great cook but alas, Cecilia slept through her first Thanksgiving meal. I was kind of disappointed because she loves table food and would have loved all of the great food. Friday was our annual shopping day and we certainly did a lot of shopping. And on Saturday we went to the tree farm to cut down our Christmas trees. So here are a few photos from the tree farm. So cute....

Neglected....

2007-12-05T11:43:00.000-06:00

Okay, I know that I have neglected the blog. Things have been very busy around here and I think that it will get worse before it gets better. I do have pictures and stories to share but they will have to wait. I have a tree to get up, a house to clean and decorate and cookies to make. But right now, I am resting with a sleeping baby on my chest....nothing is as important as that. So give me a couple of days and I will get the pictures uploaded and stories written. Thanks for your patience. Now back to my sleeping babe....

The best laid plans....

2007-11-19T12:36:00.000-06:00

So this was the last free weekend of the year. I had it all planned out. We were going to go to the holiday parade in downtown Milwaukee as a family. A great tradition with blankets and hot cocoa and popcorn.... And then we were going to finish cleaning the house...really deep clean everything for the holidays. Well, everything was really planned out and then 7:00 a.m. on Saturday hit and I was down for the count. The virus that had ailed my three children during the week struck me with a vengence. It was a very long Saturday and while I was feeling better on Sunday, my body was very worn out so Sunday was pretty much a bust too. So now, here we are on Monday. The house is a disaster and the basement needs a total overhaul and I am not nearly at 100%. Hopefully, if I pace myself, I will be able to finish everything before Thursday. Wish me luck! Now if only Cecilia would lay down for a nap!

YUCK!!

2007-11-13T01:37:00.000-06:00

It is 1:30 in the morning. Why am I still up, you ask? Well, Jack and Emily are sick. Very sick. Like vomiting all over their beds took Jack to the ER sick. Patrick and I have now changed their beds twice, gave Emily a bath twice and have done many loads of laundry. And this is just the beginning. I am actually looking forward to my dentist appointment tomorrow morning as it will be actual time away from the puke. I know this is really gross but please just pray for us. Pray that this doesn't last long and that Patrick and I don't get sick. So far, Cecilia isn't as sick so let's just pray that she doesn't get worse.

Friends

2007-11-08T21:22:00.000-06:00

You know how there are those couple of friends who really are everything to you. They are the ones who you know will be there for you no matter what happens. They are happy for you when you succeed and are there with an empty shoulder when you need them, no questions asked. And also, you jump for joy with their happiness and cry for them when they are sad. I would say that I have a handful of them, those who are more like family to me than friends. I have been blessed with two of them in the past two days. I know that they are always there when I need them but my conversations with them this week just reminded me of how lucky I am that they are in my life.

Yesterday one of them called me. We haven't talked or seen each other in awhile. She called and chatted and suggested a lunch date for tomorrow. It was perfect timing and I am so much looking forward to seeing her.

And today, I chatted online with my oldest and dearest friend. She lives so far away that I don't get to see her as often as I would like but even though there are hundreds of miles between us, I know that if I truly needed her, she would move mountains to get here. Today she shared some exciting news with me and I was honestly as happy for her as I would be if it was happening to me. I also realize that I need to make time to see her or at least call her more regularly. She is just so important to me and I don't think that I could ever do without her.

I really should try to see all my friends more often. They are just so important to me and I wouldn't want to lose them.

Also, my son, Jack, just came out of the bathroom very upset because he put temporary tattoos all over his hand and it looks crazy. By the way, he was supposed to be in bed when he was doing this. I told him that next time, he should ask for help. He was crying so hard because he thought he was in trouble. He is so sweet and somehow, I couldn't be mad at him for putting on tattoos when he was supposed to be sleeping. I am now going to snuggle with my boy!

Overwhelmed and a little bit sad....

2007-11-07T10:46:00.001-06:00

Well, another day has gone by and I still feel like the mounting items on my to-do list is impossible. I have so much to do in such a short period of time to get ready for the holidays. And while, I know I should focus on how much I get done every day, what remains is overwhelming. Compounded by the fact that I now have 3 kids, and their activities, something that used to take me a couple of hours, now takes a whole day. Today, I would like to clean out Emily and Jack's closet and dresser drawers; remove clothes that doesn't fit, put fall and winter clothes out. But unfortunately, they are no longer little enough for me to do this by guessing. The actually have to try some of their clothes on. So this project will wait until the weekend which means that my basement overhaul will also have to wait. It is then a snowball effect as I will need to wait to make Christmas cards, etc. Here I was so excited about getting ready for Christmas this year because I could get so much done while Em and Jack are at school....not true, I have a 9 month old who does not let me get much done during the day! Oh well, I am learning that some things just won't get done and I have to be able to live with that....easier said than done.

On the bright side (and also sad side), I did finish cleaning out Cecilia's dresser and closet. I went through Emily's old baby clothes and washed and ironed what Cecilia could wear and put away all of the clothes that Cecilia doesn't fit into anymore. This is the sad part, I hate packing up the baby clothes. It just reminds me how little they were and how sweet and how fast they are growing up. Before long, Cecilia will be walking and talking and then I'll blink and it will be her first day of school. This makes me want to cry and for that Patrick thinks that I am crazy. I think that I just know that it won't be long before I don't have any little kids anymore, they will be all grown up and they will leave me and ultimately need me less.

I know this isn't a very happy and upbeat post but it is how I am feeling today. Maybe tomorrow will be better. Maybe I am just subconsciously in a bad mood because I know I have to go to the dentist (where I will get chastised for not flossing) with three kids. Wish me luck!

Just around the corner...

2007-11-05T08:41:00.000-06:00

The temperature is dropping and flurries are in the forecast. Winter is just around the corner. As is Thanksgiving. It is only a couple of weeks away and I am thinking about everything I have to get done before then. Thanksgiving is my deadline. I know that as soon as that weekend passes, we will be in the thick of Christmas preparation and activities. Plus, I love the holiday season. It is so stressful but there is so much to be thankful for and to look forward and now that I have kids, the stress and preparation is that much more rewarding.

On the bright side, a huge relief has washed over me as Patrick and I finished cleaning the garage. It was an absolute disaster area. It took a couple of weekends but now it is done. Everything is put in its place and labeled! I get so excited about that. About halfway through cleaning it out, I realized that we should have taken a before and after picture because you never would have believed just how bad it was. I don't think we ever really thought about organizing it when we moved in. Things just continued to get stashed in there. But now, it is so clean and I am so glad. Now on to the basement....

We had a great weekend. We worked on the garage on Friday and Saturday morning. Then we just took it easy on Saturday...we decorated cookies and just hung out with the kids. It is rare to have such a great day and realize in the moment what a wonderful day it was. Then on Sunday, we went to church and then we were off to Patrick's aunt and uncle's house for a party. His cousin received her Master's in Nursing and if that isn't a reason to celebrate, I don't know what is. We were very brave last night. Patrick's brother Brad, Patrick and I had a temporary loss of sanity and we decided to take our kids and his kids out for dinner. That is five kids under 6 and three adults...not a very good ratio. But they were so well-behaved. We got compliments from several people. As a parent, that is one of the best compliments you can receive. It was such a nice weekend, not too eventful but still so wonderful. It is amazing how a nice weekend can put you in a really great mood on Monday and I feel very motivated! So off to cross a few more items off the big old to do list!

Fall Fun

2007-11-01T16:01:00.000-05:00

Well, since it has been brought to my attention by my husband that my blog is boring, here is what has been happening lately. (He does not understand that when the baby wakes up, I have to get off the computer.)

It is fall! I love fall...almost as much as I love winter. The cool crisp air, the changing leaves, the falling leaves, school back in session, Halloween and Thanksgiving. It is wonderful. Anyways, Emily, Jack and I raked the leaves and of course, jumped in them too. They had such a great time. It was especially nice that this year, they were old enough to rake the leaves up themselves after they jumped in them. They were so cute and here is a particularly good picture of them jumping in the leaf pile and they're holding hands! So cute!

This year, the kids went as characters from the Wizard of Oz. Emily was totally excited to dress up as Dorothy but Jack, on the other hand, needed some convincing. He wanted to be a "minjan" (which is Jack talk for 'ninja.') But I wanted him to be the scarecrow because he would be so cute and my mom had already made a scarecrow costume when Jake was little. After watching the Wizard of Oz, he agreed and actually became very excited about it. Cecilia was super easy to convince because well, she's 8 months old, so she was Glinda. So I made Emily and Cecilia's costumes. I think they turned out really well. So here is a photo of the kids right before trick or treating on Sunday.

Today Cecilia definately said "mama." I can't be 100% sure that she meant me but I am choosing to live in possible denial and say she did. Granted, she hasn't said it again.... Oh well, she wanted help getting into this chair and she said, "mama." Here she is sitting in her big girl chair after asking her mom for help.

That's all I have for now but maybe this will be less boring to read!

I've Given In...

2007-11-01T13:25:00.000-05:00

Welcome Everyone!

Even though I am not sure how many of you there are. I have finally given in to the blog world. It is something that I have been thinking about for a long time but have never done. Well, I finally got a blog. I'm not sure I can promise that there will be anything exciting to read here but I'll try. Mostly, it will just be a place to share what is going on with me and the family. So if you are out there reading this, I thank you for actually being interested and I hope you will keep checking in.