Christmas at the Farm...

Tyler and Connor..having some quiet time in Papa's chair..while he is carving the turkey...





AJ, sitting nicely on the couch ..waiting for dinner...





Kevin and Jennifer looking at stickers of Bernese Mountain Dogs..my dream dog..




My favorite picture of the season..Connor loving on GG...and she's loving right back..




Allen and Tyler..thrilled that I'm taking their picture.




MY Papa..he is awesome.




Connor and GREAT Aunt Anne..both laughing at something...



CHEESE!! Connor was a ham for the camera today...

Santa Surprise

Santa came for a surprise visit to Papa and Tina's house..even Mommy and Daddy were surprised when then jolly man in red rang the doorbell..the children were thrilled..look at AJ's face...



Connor sat on Santa's knee first...he was more interested in the candy Santa had versus the gift...a toy cell phone.



Next was Emma..she was a little tentative at first..unusual for Emma..who typically isn't afraid of the spot light..but she enjoyed the visit from Santa and LOVED the dress up accessories he brought for her..



Finally, AJ's turn..he was TOTALLY excited about it...that grin..I'm sure..lasted as he dreamt into the night..Santa brought him a transformer.



We couldn't get Connor back on Santa's knee..he was still much more interested in all the chocolate Santa had brought him in his sac.

I can't help but be thankful to those that set this up. It warmed my heart knowing so many people took part in the "surprise" and that so many people love my children enough to put such effort into it. So..Nana, Papa, Tina, Tyler, Becky, Liz and DooDoo..you guys are amazing..and I love you all!! Thank you so much for giving the gift of great memories to my children.

Snow Forts

AJ being the boy from California, wasn't exactly fond of the snow the first time he went out...he cried infact...his hands were cold, and his feet were cold..and he even broke out into a rash...that we like to call "Northern Exposure"...basically the opposite of a heat rash..we didnt know what to do..here we were in Canada, during one of 3 snow storms set to his us while we visited..it was going to be miserable for him..and us...needless to say..there had been enough snow fall that the snow banks were high..VERY high..I did the only natural thing to do..taught AJ how to build a snow fort...we sat out there for a good couple of hours..the two of us..digging, smooshing, shovelling...it was great...




Here he is digging up a storm...




Look at those red ears...he didn't complain once...




It was so deep AJ was able to lay in his snow fort...




Such a perfect little smile..he was so happy..it was one of our best days together yet..

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LORI!!!!!!

Thank you for being such a giant support to me. I'm not sure how I'd manage to get through the chaos that is my life right now without your constant uplifting, and prayer. There's a plan, He has a plan, and we met for a reason. You've taught me so much, about Faith, Family, and Friends!! I love you dearly and feel a sense of security and content knowing that you will always be there. Happy Birthday Lori!! You deserve a day to celebrate who YOU are!! xoxo

home

and exhausted...more to come soon...

Pictures for Nana...

Emma is keeping occupied while the rest of the house is down and out by making pictures for Nana...she's a crafty little one...

Over it...

I'm over the vomit..I'm over the poopy diapers..I'm over the smell of bleach..I'm over cleaning..I'm over laundry..I'm so over this bug..

2 more sleeps...

Until our drive to Canada...I'm so not prepared...I had good intentions to be...I started off well...but with the household getting sick...I'm not behind...and stressing...I may even show up at my Moms with dirty laundry to wash...lol..good thing she loves me and mine...haha..we haven't done any real shopping yet either...it didn't make sense to travel with it all in the car...risking the kids seeing the gifts etc...customs..we'll just do a marthon shop once we get there...we don't have much to spend this year either...so it'll be quick..but not so painless..lol

drama king??

Is there such a thing?? Connor...has started making this sorry, sad face when he doesn't get his way...it's the first face they make when babies are about to cry...but he holds it there...mouth WIDE open...eyes closed tightly...but no sound...it's quite hilarious...at first...I thought oh gosh..I have a breath holder...I really thought he was hurt or something and couldn't get the cry out...after seeing it happen several times in the last few days...I've come to the conclusion that he is a drama king...he's ALL boy...but has a sense of drama about him...he doesn't do it as often now that I tend to chuckle at him when he does it...I hope I can catch it on camera at some point though...it's quite the priceless look...

rain rain go away...what the heck...I guess it could be worse...this would all be snow in Canada...and I'd be out shovelling...while trying to keep my kids in line...instead...we're stuck inside...Carrie I would have totally sent them out in the rain yesterday...it was warm enough...I would have put their rain coats and boots on...but I'd be needing your help today either a) searching for my children that I lost in the mud pit or b) cleaning the mud off the inside of my house once they came back in...my yard isn't exactly the best place to play in the rain...it tends to pool and such...

today we had planned on going to Carries...but AJ reminded me last night we only have 5 more sleeps until we head to Canada...what what what?? OK...I need to get my act together...and gather everything...make lists..get groceries for the cooler...and well..tidy the house before DH gets home from duty night...I have lots I want to get done...and I know if I head off to a play date with a lovely bunch of ladies...I'll be home at nap time..and there goes half my day...

I also want to bake some cookies today...have some sugar cookies for my kids to decorate..as well as anyone that may forget to bring their own to the cookie decorating play date...I was going to make the icing yesterday...but our baking specialist in the group advised I not do it until the morning of...so that's what I'll be doing first thing Monday morning...haha

sad...

I can't put what I really want to here...

thinking...

of you today Claire..prayers are being sent up...

Rain...

Sounds pretty right now...but come on...I wanted to let my kids play outside today...grrrrr

...

it's not that far...it's not that far...

Merry Christmas to our Troops

Go to the free website and choose a post card design and message to send to our troops overseas for the holiday season!!

God Bless our Troops!! THANK YOU!!

http://www.letssaythanks.com/Home1024.html

one room at a time...

Ok...so I've decided I'm going to reorganize this house one room at a time...this whole week I spend doing laundry (catching up after a clogged washer)...sorting through Connor's clothing and putting aside all the small stuff and breaking out the hand-me-downs I've gotten from others (THANK YOU NIKI AND CARRIE)...his room is OFFICIALLY reorganized...Emma's room both Allen and I worked on last week...I do need to go in there and sift through her toy box..run the vacuum...but other than that hers is done...AJ's is pretty much done...I'll take a day next week (while he's in CA) and go through his clothes...getting rid of his high-waters and small shirts...then I'll be able to focus on my bedroom...which sadly is always the last room I work on...I'm going to insist it happens before the reorganization of our main living areas...that way the main living areas will be easier...they're tidy..just lived in...I have some old mail I need to burn up too...I'll probably do that tonight after the kids are in bed..sit at the fireplace and burn away...it's therapeutic to me..hehe..ok..enough of my ramblings...I'm going to go put some MORE laundry away...xo

A note from my Mom...

get up in lots of time to leave a few minutes early so I`m not a few minutes late.
doesn`t matter what time I leave it seems, traffic is such that I will ALWAYS be a few minutes late.
Oh well.
I`m riding along thinking my pantyhose seem to be sliding down my slippery underwear, I better fix before
I get out of the car.
I stop my car in the free parking lot. The reason its free is because its so far from downtown and its not paved .. my feet will be in 4 inches of muddy water, so I have to re-park my car.
Before I exit the car, I`m trying to hoist my pantyhose back up my rear end, and in doing so, I drop my keys down under my front passenger seat.
I exit the car, yanking again on the pantyhose, try to arrange a scarf over my head till I can open my umbrella, I zip up my leather coat and it splits from the bottom up.
By now, the pantyhose are slipping again. I retrieve my keys, open my umbrella, tug on the pantyhose, hoist my backpack onto my shoulder, and head out to the sidewalk, where I can feel the pantyhose slipping with each step.
I discreetly try to hold them up with my hand hidden in my coat pocket (as there is a ton of traffic) on the street.
This was a useless effort, down go the pantyhose, past the knees .. by the time they got to my calves, I was taking very long strides as this seemed to keep them from reaching the ankles.
When I reached the shelter of the little museum train station, I quickly checked for traffic, and when clear, I bent over and removed the pantyhose and stuffed them in my pocket.
At the moment, my white and hairy legs are bare.
Off to Shopper`s Drug Mart on my break.

How was your morning ?

Christmas Music

Is finally playing on XM thru DirectTv...super excited...and want to decorate even more than I did before...both kids are sleeping..house is a wreck..but I'm here posting about Christmas music...haha...just had to share...

No more WORK!

Yay!! It's a relief!! I'm going to get my house in order..finally..and I'm going to redecorate my bedroom before baby..and I'm not going to stress about babysitters, and all that goes along with that anymore!! I'm going to get to enjoy my children, and my friends!! I'm going to love it..I can tell you that for sure!! I'm looking forward to all the playdate fun on the MN, and my kids will be happier for it. Emma needs to socialize and be out with kiddies her own age..and Connor seems to thrive in that environment too...they are both very social kids...

The holidays are coming...stay tuned later this afternoon...since DH wont let me decorate the house until thanksgiving..I'll be decking the blogger halls during nap time...'tis the season...

Morning Snuggles

I love them...and I've missed so many of them since I started working full time. I have only two more shifts left at Lowe's and as sad as I am to not be working anymore (I really did enjoy the job I did), I am much more excited about the concept of being a full time Mommy again...it's a dreary morning here...rainy, foggy, dark...so my kiddos slept in a few minutes later than usual...I was able to get up...make breakfast and have it sitting on the table for them...I wanted a shower too but I moved too slowly...I woke AJ up and he got dressed, ate his breakfast and *shock* offered to empty the dishwasher for me...I jumped on that and took the offer...in the meantime Emma and Connor woke up...we sat snuggled under one blanket on the couch for what felt like eternity..I could have sat there longer...AJ finished his dishes..came and gave us all kisses for school...I reminded him to brush his teeth..then he was off...Emma, Connor and I still sitting on the couch..snuggled under a blanket...they were lovey with me..and lovey with each other...it was a super sweet morning...and while I had them before I worked...I'll never take them for granted again since I've missed so many over the past few months...

Quiet Afternoon

We had planned on going to the zoo today for AJ's birthday...unfortunately the weatherman thought we should do something else. So we followed Daddy around and ran some errands...the kids were pretty good, fell asleep in the car..which means either no nap at home..or a difficult time napping...I've given up and sent them all outside...I just peaked out there...and they're a bit muddy...they'll all need baths tonight...before Allen takes AJ to the hockey game...which we've replaced the zoo with...Emma and I have a date tonight to curl up on the couch with our Jammie's on and watch Barbie and the Nutcracker...she is such a girlie girl in so many respects...but such a tom boy in so many others (as I watch my mud covered girl run around the yard)...

Allen is sleeping on the couch...I tried napping...but it didn't happen...the phone kept ringing...which is ok..means I'm loved right?? At least it's not people asking me who I'm voting for anymore...I couldn't keep up with the number of calls we were getting before the election was over...I've heard from more recordings in the recent months than ever before...

I feel hung over today...only because I was up way later than my pregnant schedule has allowed me recently...games...sooo much fun...when we can get Parker to focus...and Nanette to stop giggling...it was a good night...I wish I could hang...but I was falling asleep driving home as it was...and knew I'd be the one getting up with the kids in a few short hours..so I needed to leave...once this baby is born..I'm expecting a big hurrah girls night...take note ladies...sometime after June...get your calendars clear...lol

Anyway..I should go do something productive..fold laundry..unload dishwasher...bathe my children..something..anything...I need to keep moving or I'll fall asleep...

xo

Driving...

really irritates my sciatica...I wish Jennifer lived next door...I'm paying for the drive now...tylenol here I come...

Christmas Movies...

I'm watching them like crazy today...trying to get back into the Spirit...evilness is abundant today...my previous post may have been me being a sore loser (although technically I had no vote)...but there's also something to say about people being gracious winners...I'll give Obama (or his speech writers) that much...he graciously accepted his win, but his worshippers...er I mean voters are certainly not following suit...it's a bandwagon..and it's gonna lose a wheel or two over the next 4 years...and I'll be proudly standing by my husband and our beliefs when he says he had no doing in this...

commercial...

...I just saw the first Christmas commercial...it's coming!!!!

Downsizing!!

So the economy has hit Lowe's....I'm not too worried about myself, as I'm relieved (delited actually) to only be working part time..I'll have TONS more time at home...still have time away and out of the house...bring in some extra money...but more importantly..time at home!! I was ready to quit..only holding out until my boss got back from holidays..then with the downsizing..I came up with a brilliant business type solution..saved someone else from dropping to part time..by combining to part time positions..into one full time position...everyone got the better end of the deal...all my idea..sometimes I amaze myself...

DH has duty tonight..it's always so lonely in the house...even with 3 kids...they miss him too..but it was beautiful today...most of the afternoon was spent outside...I even skimped on dinner...I was going to do a frozen lasagna..but it was too late to put it in..then decided on KFC...but decided to save a buck a did mac & cheese...Emma enjoyed it ...

"mmm mom..this is good macaroni and cheese..you are a good cook"

so easy to impress...AJ's birthday is on the 5th..I asked what he wanted for his birthday dinner...he said "rice"...Emma's birthday is on the 19th...she told me "Macaroni and cheese" it's gonna be some cheap birthdays this year!!

Anyways..it's about that time to gather my gaggle of children and tuck them into their beds...who will fall asleep first?? Likely AJ..I have two others who are night owls...grrrr...ok..off I go to give snuggles and kisses...

Jack-O-Lanterns...

We had a great night, Carrot soup, salmon, and then we carved pumpkins. We skipped dance class this week...Emma got into her dance bag, we couldn't find her ballet slippers, and she just wasn't motivated enough to look very hard. Neither Allen or I really wanted to take the time out to take her, we just wanted some good old family fun...so we got out the knives, spoons, and got a little messy. The kids loved it...they were all elbow deep in mess, and totally loved watching Mommy and Daddy carve away..next year I'll have carving tools they can use..this year I obviously overlooked that detail...too much going on I guess... they started to get annoyed with Allen and I over all the pictures we were taking..but we were really trying to get Connor to make his "angry" face...he does it sooooo well, and it's quite hilarious...the last picture is my favorite...Emma looks soooooo freaking funny...almost as funny as her comment at dinner...we were all sitting down and ready to say our prayers...Emma wasn't folding her hands..and we were all like "hurry up Emma" and she was all apologetic "oh sorry..I was just picking a wedge out of my bum" then proceeded to fold her hands...needless to say both Allen and my shoulders were shaking during prayers... I'm going to be quitting work soonish..I want to give them one months notice, enough time for to help train their new person...I'm just feeling this overwhelming urge to focus my time and efforts solely on my husband, my children, and my home...I think it would help my mental health too...I need to feel more at ease...and not that I'm not enjoying myself and my work when I'm at work...there is just so much I don't have time for that I'm missing...Lori and her beauties being a prime example...today was wonderful...even if her kiddos get injured every time they are here...I'm sure her DH will keep letting her come by...if not..her casa et my casa..right?? haha

Monday Blahs??

So after a great day Sunday with the family...Hunt Club for pumpkins and petting zoo, and then a nice lunch followed by a beautiful sunny afternoon playing outside, and some long quiet naps...it was just sweet perfection...

I woke up this morning...feeling very rundown...it's been coming for a long time...something lingering there...it's actually a number of things...I've actually come to the conclusion I can't please everyone...until I fix myself...so I've got that ball rolling...I've made two appointments...yep..therapy..here I come...whew..I admitted it..that I needed help..got some support and words of advice, and finally made myself an appointment...gotta sort out my anger..gotta sort out the sadness...gotta make myself all better because this baby is coming soon, and I need to bring it into the world stress free...good luck right??

I need to direct my anger more accordingly because taking it out on the kids or Allen isn't the right thing to do...I just now need to find the direct source..or sources...and my sadness...well it's just been a crazy few years for me, lots on my plate..lots of big changes..and some changes I just wasn't ready for...some people I need in my life...I know life goes on...and I know I was the one that moved away...I guess I just figured there would be a bit more need on their part too...but it's me that had the attachment issues I guess...I was told I don't know them if I don't know how they really feel...I know them...I know how they felt...and I can't blame them that things go the way they do...but it makes me sad none the less...and what am I suppose to think when it's played out this way?? The 3 of them mean so much to me...so much more than they know...but even though I'm in a different country...and have been for awhile...I've never felt so far away as I do now...I'm sad...and I need to get over the sad...it's affecting me, my kids, my husband, and now because of one of my previous blog posts..them...

Not meant to hurt them...I was putting my feelings into words...sure a website might not be the place..but when you don't speak to someone for ages...and I mean AGES...the last thing you want to do when you do speak is bring up some of those emotions...I'm sorry if I hurt feelings...but my feelings were hurt...I may have misinterpreted the situation...but I'd probably still not know about it..or their "plans" for me if I hadn't noticed the picture...

Anyway...there is a light...I feel like therapy might help me deal with my issues...they go WAAAAAAY back...like 10 years back...now just to find the right therapist to talk to...hopefully first time's a charm...

Oooh the pain...

The headaches are back!! Ugh!! They seem to be hitting me at the same time everyday. Yesterday...I tried to ride it out. Slept through the pain, but woke up this morning still feeling the throbbing...I had to take some excedrin migraine. It was ok'd when I was pregnant for Connor. I figured it was safe this time too. There was no way I could have functioned today without it. I'm a bit shaky today, could be I overslept, could the halfcaf coffee, could be the pain meds. We need to get out of the house again...so we'll likely venture to Nanette's.

Yesterday we went to Lori's for the popcorn party. I have to say that my kids thoroughly impressed me. They were so good!! Connor didn't "bully" any kids, and Emma was too busy dressing up to eat Lori out of house and home. She really only surfaced from the playroom to gather a few cookies, and then she'd disappear again. Towards the end of the playdate she came out all gussied up to jump on the trampoline. No behaviour issues, no stress, it was a great morning with good people!!

Woah it's been awhile...

Sorry about that...if there's anyone out there still checking to see if I've updated..haha...

really there's not a lot to talk about..we're struggling with AJ's teacher at school. That's a big sore spot for me right now..wanna get me fired up..ask me about that...basically she's insisting we get him diagnosed so he can be medicated...the poor kid has had so much adjustment to do these last 6 months..I just don't think it would be fair for us to get him diagnosed at this stage in the game...he needs some positive reinforcements, some self esteem, and some time to get used to being a 6 year old boy with expectations and responsibilities. He's never got any of these...he is so understimulated that it's sad...and basically his teacher feels hard done by because she needs to give him some extra attention...ok..before I get myself into a tissy..I need to stop there...

Connor is doing well...he's learning new words everyday..the cutest thing he does lately is watching Football with Daddy. He sits snuggled up next to Daddy, and will clap and cheer anytime the crowd on TV does...we've taught him to say "touchdown" as he raises his arms up high and "defence" as he pumps his fist out...he's super cute...I was angry with the other two children the other day...yelling my fool head off because they had messed up a room I had just cleaned up..Connor came walking over to me and wanted up..so I picked him up and he just gave me a hug...totally calmed me down..just what I needed to help me express to the other two how angry I was without spitting my words at them...

Emma..is back in dance...she is super excited...she'll be one of the youngest in her class, which I think will be really good for her..will help keep her on task to see the others on task...Nana was just here for a visit, and Emma loved every minute of it..she loves her Nana..and misses her all the time...

Julie and Jenn are visiting now for Thanksgiving..we'll do a turkey on Sunday..and then hopefully Lindsay and Tyler will be our next visitors...I love visitors...they bring "home" to me...it's nice..and it makes you feel special that people would come this far..just to see you...I love my friends.

*sigh*

...another late night for Allen!! I was so looking forward to him being home tonight...for the kids to get some quality time...but ooooh noooo...one of the douchebags that work for him had to go and stab someone in the face and was appearing in court...AGAIN...this time though his court appearance wasn't until late in the day...and then took 2 hours to finish...Allen is still not home...it's almost time to start baths...the house looks like a tornado (although I mopped the kitchen floor), and laundry is...big surprise here...backed up...I need a housekeeper...or else I need to quit and stay home full time...we'll see come January...maybe 2009 will bring me to a better place...it's not that I mind working...but 3ish in the afternoon has always been the "difficult" time of day for me...where I feel sluggish and have a hard time keeping on task...top that off with the fact that I've been up since 4am..and just got off work...and yeah...I park my butt on the couch and often snooze...ugh...I need motivation..any ideas out there readers??

Chief Petty Officer Bowman

It's over...and I couldn't be more proud!!

The picture quality is not the best...I couldn't find my camera and it was either leave and be without camera or find camera and be late....I chose to be on time...so this is from my phone...

Please note AJ is not feeling well and was such a trooper to peacefully sit through it...he does not look happy in the picture...

He sleeps...

...finally!!!

Where did my baby go?!?!

Connor - days old.

Connor - days ago.

I'm so totally bummed out!! Connor who is 17.5 months old...has pulled out the stops with development lately!! He's got a mouth full of teeth...it feels like there's a new one almost everyday (I know I'm exaggerating but really it feels that way)...he listens to what you say and can follow directions fairly well (when he's cooperating)...he can wash his own hair...yes..my not even 18 month old child can put shampoo in his hands....lather it all over his head...and dumps the bucket over his head to rinse...all by himself...he tells me when he's poopy...he can communicate most of his needs...for example he'll take you by the hand and lead you somewhere..or he'll run ahead of you then look at you like he wants you to follow him...he knows the color blue and can say "blue"...he has too many words to list...but there's new ones every day...and the kicker...he can get out of his crib...AND...open his bedroom door. Yep...I woke up this afternoon after a quick cat nap while the kids were napping and Connor was in my face...you're probably thinking it was one of the other two...nope...they were both sound asleep...he did it all by himself...without injury thank God..tonight is a different story...he's OK...but he did fall out of his crib after I put him to bed...tomorrow the crib will be coming down...I need a toddler bed...Lori is looking into a friend of hers that may have one available...but if not...he'll be sleeping in a mattress on the floor...goodbye crib...it makes me teary to think that he could be my last baby and he's already outgrown the crib...he's my baby...really though...he's a toddler trapped in a body of a baby...well OK..he looks like a toddler too..and I know he's close to really being thought of as a toddler...but he's my baby...my baby boy...they grow up quickly...too quickly...

I'm feeling festive...

So I know...it's a bit early for feeling festive over the holidays...but it really is my favorite time of the year....with back to school being a very close second (cue "it's the most wonderful time of the year" music now)....it's almost fall...well here it can still feel like a muggy summer day most days...but I've got that itch...I want to watch my holiday movies...I want to decorate...I'm craving the cooler weather comfort foods...I want to go buy my kids cute sweaters...with matching toques (for those non-Canadians reading toques are winter hats)...I'm totally into it right now...I know where I will put my REAL Christmas tree when we put it up...and can't wait to light my holiday scented candles all over the house...

I'm really excited now because I have more of a reason to do a Turkey dinner this year for the Canadian Thanksgiving than just wanting to do one. Jenn and Julie are making plans to drive all the way down south to visit me. I'm going to pull out all the stops to make them the most FABULOUS dinner!! With a turkey and all the fixings...I hope they bring their loose pants with them...haha...I'm really looking forward to it...time spent with them is never dull...and never a let down...the only issue is recouping my stomach muscles afterwards...because we tend to laugh MOST of the time...if not all of it...I hope there are no disagreements on who gets the Dora bed...or who gets the fairy bed....hrmm...

I wonder when apple picking season begins...I really want to go this year...I was disappointed that I didn't go last year, it's my goal to go this year. I want to test my abilities with making homemade applesauce...and my gosh...I know my kids could go through a bushle in a matter of minutes if they had the chance to...so having lots of fresh yummy apples around will be great...

it's a beautiful day today...I love when it's cool enough for no AC and the windows open...letting the house air out...ok..I'm getting overwhelmed with that "festive" feeling again...gotta go make dinner...

Hurricanes, stew, friendships and more...

So Hanna was absolutely nothing!! I feel like a fool worrying (even though I tried to hide how worried I really was)...I guess because I have never experienced anything mother nature can throw at you aside from a blizzard or two...I just don't know what to expect...so I always seem to expect the worse...we're watching Ike now...here's a little prayer it passes us by...



Yesterday I made slow cooker beef stew with dumplings...it was pretty good if I do say so myself...it was the perfect day for it...rainy and windy...it was good comfort food!! The best part about it is that I got to share it with friends. I owe my right arm to Nanette after this weekend...she was a huge saving grace for me...she stayed here at my house all weekend...watched my kids while I worked...I couldn't have asked for a bigger favour...it was what a true friend would do...Katherine and Emma get along so well...if only to be a fly on the wall while the two of them are talking...even being ancient to them..I'm sure I'd learn something...Connor...he's a bully...he takes on kids that he knows wont fight back...poor Allison...kept losing her sippy, soother, and sucker...he'd just walk right up and take it...she'd cry...and he'd give it back...but it was almost as if he liked pushing her buttons to get a reaction from her.



Miss Ali comes back tomorrow morning. Emma is going to be so excited to see her I'm sure. One day this past week she woke up and was crying because she couldn't find Miss Ali...I felt bad for her...and sad for me cause she wasn't excited I was home...until I pointed out she should be...

So Emma asked to do her fairy puzzle tonight...she says to me "Mommy can I do my puzzle? I want to exercise my brain"...seriously...I need to find the money to put her in private school...it scares me to death to think she's wasting away at home...not using that incredibly intelligent brain of hers...



Lori is sick...poor thing!! I feel bad...I wish there was more I could do...if I wasn't working tomorrow I'm sure I'd head over there and take care of those little beauties!!

Broken...

Something is broken...and I don't know what it is...so I'm not even sure I know how to fix it...I'm not sure if I'm depressed, or have some anger issues, or what's going on, but I feel myself right on the edge of destructive mode...like I'm one step away from losing all control...I know this initiation thing is a lot of it, but I just feel like there is something deeper, something more that I need to get to the root of...I need therapy or something...family therapy, personal therapy...I just need to figure out what's wrong...I know there's something off..something not working right..something broken...I need help figuring out what it is...today has been a very stressful day...Allen had duty yesterday...then a golf tournament today...so I haven't seen him..not had any of his help getting the house ready for my Dad and his fiance to come...I've steam cleaned the couch, carpets, cleaned the house, finished the laundry...made their bed...I went to Lowe's to return the steam cleaner, and pick up more cleaning supplies...then took the kids to the Commissary to pick up groceries...what a mistake...remind me to never go there again on a Saturday morning with 3 kids..the day after pay day...I know I lost my patience more than once...the kids must think I'm terrible...the house is as clean as it's going to get...I've mopped the kitchen..loaded/unloaded the dishwasher...washed the cupboards...cleaned the bathrooms...vacuumed the rooms I didn't steam clean...all the while feeding the kids..playing with the kids..changing dirty bums...I'm embarrassed at the state of the yard...but I just can't muster the energy to get out there and cut the grass...instead I'm just going to play the song "welcome to the jungle" as my Dad and Martina arrive....it's that bad...yes..something is broken...and I gotta figure out how to fix it...I hope I don't work next Sunday...I really think Church might be a big help...

Girls Night

I had a fabulous time last night with the girls, we went to Catch 21 on the Oceanfront. It was so nice to be out, without kids, and feeling not guilty about it at all. I deserved the night out. It was so nice to see some of my favorite faces.

Niki, it's been too long. You welcomed me into your home town..and made me feel comfortable and at peace being away from my home land. You introduced me to some of the girls I hold dearest to my heart now. I miss you now that you are gone, but your a forever friend. So it doesn't matter. We will always be close in heart.

Lori, where do I start. Not only have you embraced me, and our friendship, you LOVE my family, my children and my husband. You have a generous heart, and you are such an honest friend. I love that you are a part of my life now, and I truly believe that my life path crossed with yours for a reason. That it was God's plan for us to be friends. Thank you for it all.

Carrie, I admire you on so many levels. I feel honored that we are friends. I love that we can have intense, meaningful and intelligent conversations, all while we are chasing after our children. You are an inspiration in so many ways. It makes me feel very special that you consider me a friend, and I appreciate your support, insight, and great company.

Jenna, I had a FABULOUS time getting to talk with you last night. It was so nice to have such great conversation. We've never really had that opportunity before, and I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

Meghan & Kim, it was so nice to be able to have adult conversations with you both. I hope this is the beginning of more wonderful friendships. You both are so much fun.

Niki - pass on to Jessica I think she's a riot. I know I could have a lot of fun with her if I didn't fall asleep first. Next time I'll have to better prepare for a GNO by having a nap before hand and scheduling a sitter for the next morning so I can recover. Gosh I'm getting old.

Anyways, as you can tell last night was not only about fabulous food, but it solidified that Virginia Beach is my home now. I am finally able to say that, and it's all because I've put it some roots, built some of the most precious relationships here, and I feel at peace. I do miss Canada, and my friends and family there and that's OK, I have friends here now who can help me with that.

As I was out last night, I wondered why Allen and I didn't do more things in the area to actually enjoy the area. Why do we go out and go to places we can go anywhere in the country?? Why don't we try new things more often?? I realized that those places are part of the draw and fun of living in Virginia Beach, and I've been here over a year and am not experiencing them. Once all these Chief things settle, and we get back to a normal routine, it's my goal to get out more.

I'm stepping outside the box ladies and gentlemen. Yay for me!!

Fruit Salad Success

Fruit Salad

So we've made a plan for the day...the kids came up with an idea of making fruit salad...so we made a list of everything we'll need....AJ printed the list for spelling practice...some errors but I took the opportunity to have him write them out the right one...

• strawberries
• bananas
• apples
• grapes
• blueberries

so we're all going to get dressed and head over to the grocery store..come home make some fruit salad..then enjoy...

Allen has a carwash today...he told me not to drive all the way to Portsmouth for this one...but to come to a more local one. I may go anyways...just to get the kids out for a bit of family fun..but I'm still undecided.

Gotta go...we have a shopping list we must take care of.

Early Morning Thoughts...

So it's early..I'm waiting on the sitter to arrive..then I'll be heading to work. The kids are sleeping soundly...I'm going to miss Emma's morning snuggles...I already do...and it's only been a few days of this.

Really..I know it'll be worth it in the end. Once Allen is done with his initiation, and things finally settle into a routine...we'll be on the same schedule...we'll be spending much more time as a family.

To my surprise Allen was home fairly early last night. In time to see the kids off to bed infact. The kids were through the roof when he came through the door. They were so excited...they hadn't seen him since Sunday night. It was nice. He was out of it though. As soon as the kids were down..so was he..on the couch. It took me several tries and lots of coaching to get my very exhausted DH into bed. My heart felt sad for him...but proud all the same. He's already losing weight. His face looks smaller. After 6 weeks of this..he'll put my weight loss to shame. He's already doubled what I've lost...in what feels like less time.

Anyways..time to be off. I do like my new hours..I love not having to close..but I still grumble and groan everytime that alarm goes off. I like my sleep.

Love to all!! xo

Eat those veggies...

So despite my funky mood today...the kids managed to put a smile on my face...we were eating lunch (early..they were acting like they were starving)...and it was leftovers..rice..green beans and chicken...Emma was pushing around her green beans and this was the conversation that happened

AJ says "Mr Giff says you need to eat your begetables or else you'll lose your hair"!

Emma asks "what happens when you lose your hair"?

AJ "you go bald"!

Emma "like uncle tyler"?

Water nearly came out my nose...

I really don't think Mr. Giff had any idea the impact his little off the cuff statement made on my kiddos...it's not the first time the kids have reiterated it since that bbq. We haven't had any major fights about vegetables since...they talk about what Mr. Giff said..and eat their vegetables..

Feeling ugh...

I'm tired...cranky...not feeling well...have a headache...and just all around blah...I hope I'm not coming down with something...or well...maybe I do...

PS

Lori is coming home early!! We're super excited here!!!!!

Twins

You know how there's that saying "everyone has a twin somewhere in the world". It's weird..I've been seeing people here that I recognize because they look like people in Canada. It's a daily thing now that I go out and see someone and think wow..they look so much like so and so...I've also been seeing people and thinking "I feel like I should know you...you look really familiar"...at first I thought it was cause they all looked like people from Canada...but now that I think about it more..I've been here over a year now...it's much more likely I've seen them around here...out and about...and now am becoming more familiar with the people living in my neighborhood..shopping at my grocery store..or coming into Lowe's.

The kids are outside playing today..PHEW..it's been a stuffy couple of days not being able to let them out in the yard. Connor was going a bit stir crazy. I gotta get them in now..Emma has a dentist apt. at 11am. Just a check up. She's all excited. I wonder how long that will last.

That's it for now.

Nosey...

I love his little nose...

...doesn't he look lost in thought?? he's just taking in his surroundings..this was one of his first times at the beach where he wasn't in his infant car seat...he loved it..he's my little outdoorsy guy...

Weighing In...

Allen and I have decided to try weight watchers again...together!! We both need to get on track. Him for both health reasons and work reasons..me for health reasons...and well...I want to look good for the cruise in January. I have a LOOOONG way to go to my goal weight..but I'm going to set small goals and celebrate each of them when I reach them. I'm going to copy Niki and post our weight loss on here...keep us accountable to all of you!! We can't afford the big expensive plans out there..so we're doing it the old fashioned way...portion portion portion...with healthy choices and excersise...I'm going walking tonight with Cassie. It's been too long since we had our evening routine of walking. It'll be so nice to get back on track...with walking..and with seeing Cassie. I miss her.

Emma crawled into bed with me this morning. It had been awhile since she last did that. I was awake...enjoying a rare morning that I was able to sleep in a bit. We layed in bed and she talked about all the people she loved. I was amazed with the names she came up with. She certainly has one heck of a memory. I don't think she left anyone out.

So I am changing positions at Lowe's. I'm moving into the Cash Office...which means I've had to hire a babysitter. I wasn't excited about the idea of it..but it meant much more to me that I'd get to spend time with my family in the evenings. Allen and I would no longer be doing the trade off when he got home. It'll be regular hours, and I'll be on the same schedule as Allen. I'm really looking forward to it. Perks at work are I wont have to deal with nasty customers anymore. I'll just be counting money..balancing reports..and keeping the money straight. No more customers telling me to shut up...calling me stupid...or last night..I got called an idiot...lovely people in the world today aren't there??? I was upset at first..very upset..which usually I don't let them get under my skin...but these guys just wouldn't stop with the insults...and I was right. I'm over it now though...they'll get theirs one day.

Enough rambles for one day!! Love to all of you!!

"mom"

Christy says:
AJ just called me mom
Shainna says:
so cute!
Christy says:
TWICE
Christy says:
i'm crying

So there you have it...a conversation I had with my friend Shainna. This morning (actually just now...I had to blog right away) we were chatting online while the kiddos were playing...AJ called me from outside...he said "Mom??" very quietly like...I took note of it..obviously..but like the other times where they seemed almost like slip ups..I just responded naturally...I got up..went to the door and said "yeah??"...and then after I came back inside he came in..and very directly said "Mom can I play my game?" it was so natural...almost like the first time he was seeing what I would do..or how I'd respond...then when he knew I was cool..he did it again...it lifted me out of the funk I've been in this morning...I feel great...I feel like it's all been worth it...because he is now feeling secure...loved...and cared for...I love him...someone put it so poignantly..."he needed a mom"...

as I was uploading the picture...he randomly says "I love you Mom"

there just aren't words...

Brother and Sister

Emma and AJ unprompted love!!

Daddy's cutting the grass...

Daddy got home from duty today...he got right to work...making us brunch then out to cut the grass...Connor loves Daddy..he stood at the front window and watched him the whole time. Today was one of those days...just a normal lazy Sunday...we were going to go to the base pool but decided against it when brunch was late and then nap time came. I even had a nap. I love it when the house is clean and I wake up not feeling guilty about catching some extra zzz's. This afternoon we let the kids run through the sprinkler...and gave them some watermelon. I love my little family...I still hope one day we'll have another...Allen at this point is done. He says he feels quite content with Connor as our baby...I just dont' feel done. I'm on the fence.

Big Brother starts tonight...we're gonna snuggle on the couch and pick our players.

ta ta for now!! xo

Twinkle Toes...

Emma and I just had a great little Mommy and Me moment...it was quiet..Connor was sleeping..AJ was playing his game..and Emma and I were snuggling on the couch watching Little Einsteins...Emma noticed I had repainted my toes..and that her previous pedicure was coming off. She said to me "Mommy I know I have a little left but can I have sparkles on my toes too?" It was so sweet the way she asked...made me melt, and I of course went on a polish hunt and sat and did her toes...she sat so patiently and only wiggled her toes when I told her she could. Afterwards she said "Oh thank you" and I know...kids say thank you all the time...we train them to, but gosh there's just something about the way she says it...it's so genuine when it comes from her...especially when she's not prompted. When she remembers to say thank you on her own..you can tell she REALLY means it.

We're going to head over to Lori's today after our afternoon naps. I wish Allen was home...we had such a good time doing the double family date thing with the Parkers...I'm sad he's on duty..he's the "grillmaster" on the ship today though...I hope he enjoys his Independence Day...he deserves it!!

Happy July 4th Everyone!!! xoxo

Canada Day!!

Happy Canada Day to all the Canadians out there...I'm feeling homesick today...I miss getting up to a beautifully sunny day...heading over to Riverside Park for the rides, petting zoo, cotton candy etc...going home for dinner...putting on some snuggly clothes and bug spray..then heading back to the park for some fireworks...I miss running into old friends everywhere...I miss seeing my family...maybe next year I'll plan holidays over Canada Day!!

Sick Babies...

So Emma has some weird bumps/rash on her arms spreading down her one side and now a bit over her back and stomach...so we go to the Docs for her at 2:15...and Connor slept in WAY late today..is very lethargic..low grade fever..mucousy loose bowel movements as well as very gurgled mucousy sounding couch and breathing. He's a snuggly bug which I'm eating up and enjoying every minute of that...but can't get him in until 4pm. I'm on the fence about going to the ER as he just has a low grade fever...but if it spikes..you can bet I'll head over to Portsmouth.

I wanted to go to Bible Study today...I did my reading..and I got lemon poppy seed bread from the grocery store. Again...I was prepared and had to bail...I know Lori and Carrie understand...but I really wanted to be there...Melissa was going to come over afterwards to cut my hair too...I really need a hair cut...but most of all I REALLY wanted to see Melissa...I miss her...

I RSVP'd to a lot of things this week. I pray this is nothing serious for either of my kids...that would just break my heart if they got seriously sick...I also want them to enjoy the summer and get out and do things...between illness and smoke..who knows when that will happen.

I don't work tonight thank goodness...we do have people coming to the house though..so I need to get a move on around here...I guess that's a bonus to being stuck in the house...more opportunity to get things done...if I can ever tear myself off of here...

zippa dee do da

Emma's dance recital, while it had it's downfalls (ie. starting at 5:40pm instead of 4:00pm, bad sound, "those" parents etc.) it was well worth the wait to see Emma dance her feathered little toochie off. She was definately someone to be proud of...we arrived to find out that Emma was recieving an award. Inspiration Academy of The Perfomings Arts Rising Star Award!!! I was super proud...don't get me wrong..I'm well aware she's only 3...and that each separate class gave out this award..but I still had my moment..thinking back to her first days when she'd get kicked outta class for not listening..or would come home without a sticker for leading the class on a run around instead of doing her dance. She now strives every week to listen and earn her sticker..she loves Miss Kim...and while the negatives were leading us to reconsider her enrollment..that little award just saved them from losing our tuition. We'll keep her in. The look on her face when she came running off stage yelling "I got a trophy Mama" was well worth the blood sweat and tears that she's (and us) put into it. It was a nice evening.

I'm trying to post the small snippit of a video I took while in the theatre...I couldn't take the whole thing, we really weren't suppose to take video of it, but I wasn't about to pay $40 for a DVD copy of the recital I already had to pay $10/per person to see.

Emma is the furthest little one on the left. Shaking her feather bum!! GOOO EMMA!!! I'm a proud Mama tonight!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlwAA_Po4q4

smoke...airports...and 4 days off...

I just dropped my Mom off at the airport an hour ago. I came home and tried to sleep some more this morning...but no luck...I crawled into Emma's bed...thinking she'd wake up pretty sad without Nana there...she's still sleeping and here I am...not..I'll be napping this afternoon that's for sure...

...I'm going to miss my Mom...she's such a big help around the house...my laundry is totally caught up...my kitchen floor is shiny...and the playroom has remained organized all week...that and the kids LOVE having her here. They get excited just seeing Nana in the morning...so if that makes their day then it makes mine. I'm not sure when we'll see Nana again. At this point the only for sure is Christmas...we have no holidays booked between then...she has some in October but isn't sure if she'll financially be able to afford flying or even driving down at that point...so a visit then is up in the air...Christmas seems so far off though...

The smoke was ridiculous earlier on my drive...not so bad here in VA Beach, but as I drove closer to the airport it was so thick it was making me cough...I felt ill on my way home...it must be wafting this way as I can smell is seeping through walls...unless the smell is just stuck on me from the drive. They say it's going to go on for months...

So Allen and I have 4 full days off together!!! His parents are in town, but I'm so looking forward to them these 4 days. Two of them we'll spend at Busch Gardens (YAY)...and today is Emma's dance recital. Wednesday..I'm not sure what our plans are going to be..but we'll be together..and not working!!!

The WASP nest...

Last night was a meeting for DH's ship...it was nice...I liked feeling like a part of a bigger 'family'..and I really enjoyed getting information right from the horses mouth about schedule, leave, pay, etc. DH will be gone most of 2009. Doing a 3 month surge and then leaving for a 7 month deployment. They'll be gone for little bits and bobbles here and there too...

...so I really never thought it would come to him leaving again...it is going to be a real test for me..the last time I had my Mom, Brother, and only 1 baby to worry about. This time around we have 3 babies, and my Mom isn't going to be around. I'm just not sure I'm ready for DH to be gone for so much!! I mean the great and wonderful people I have here..all have their own families to worry about...

I've been here a year now and while that seems like a long enough time..I still feel a bit out of place..so I can only imagine how much more out of place I'll be with DH gone.

When I started writing this last night..I felt a lot worse now than I do posting it now. I had words of wisdom come from a dear friend this morning and I know she's gonna be a big cruch for me while Allen is gone next year...even if she doesn't want to job..hehe

Here we go...

I'm jumping on the bandwagon...first myspace...then facebook...and now here I am blogging. I set this up as a sort of different way of keeping up with family and friends...and posting pictures. I find myself only logging onto facebook to change my status or play scrabble...so I figured this might make me upload pictures more...talk more...and...it'll be easier for my Mom to see pictures..haha enough for now...I'm off to enjoy quiet time while the kids nap...Sweet tea in hand..Y&R starts soon!!