Is This Normal?!

Sleepless night. Not unusual for me. It's not something that is extremely frequent but routine enough for me to know that it's coming. The days that don't go as planned are a sure trigger and a warning sign that sleep will not come quickly.

So here I am. Scrolling through Facebook looking at all of these perfect lives and perfect posts....and although I smile to see all of the positives, is it terrible to say I would love to see someone post a blatantly honest post?! I mean, the one that really tells me about your day??? Like, perhaps, how you turned the house upside down just to find your screaming child a pair of socks because your laundry is piled sky high?! Does that make me a horrible person? I just want to feel a sense of normal, people! These posts are making me feel anything but normal!!! I would post about my horrible day on fb, but, let's be honest, it's gonna take a whole lot more than a sentence or two. Enter blog that I have long forgotten...

Our day started off fairly well, although we did have a search for socks in the sky high laundry. When you have kiddos that are extremely picky about how their socks fit, it is that more difficult. We were at school on time....early even. Win!!!

The fact that my day went down the drain was basically work related. Anyone, who thinks teachers have an 8-3 day, are insane. The summers and holidays are earned and deserved. I take my job seriously....too much so. I just had a million things going through my mind today. It was making me panicked and a little "off." I found out that I have a training tomorrow so I needed to find a sub. How did I forget that one?! OMG! That meant planning for a sub was necessary, too! That's more work than if you would actually be there yourself. I also had a meeting, which is always intended for the good but ultimately makes me feel sub par.  It's Tuesday, people, and, by Wednesday, did I mention that I will have already had three meetings? By weeks end, it will be a total of 5. That's a lot of prep time and overtime. My poor kids have been getting home from school around 6pm lately. We get there at 6:50 am.....total. mommy. guilt. I say all of these things to not make people pity me or realize the amount of effort and time teachers put in. I say these things to get to my point.....

So, I swing by McDs for the kids for dinner. They complain about the length of time it's taking to get there, and, who can blame them? They've only been up since 5:50 am!!!! They argue. They fight. They are all seated in the middle row....no one wants to sit in the back!!! Close proximity means touching....by touching I mean hitting. Hitting creates screaming....all while I try to order and check in with my mom by phone. Have you ever begged your children? I mean, literally pleaded with them so sincerely that they can see desperation in your face and hear it in your voice?...and they stop doing whatever it is that you are begging them to stop if just for a moment or two? I was at that point. My voice was cracking as I pleaded. I may have had a tear or two rolling down my face. They were quiet for the rest of the ride home.

When we got home, I sent the kids to the table with their fast food and they ate alone. I folded clothes. What has happened? I once cooked dinner frequently and we ate together. I simply don't know what has happened to my time!!!  Homework time didn't start until 7pm with baths to follow.

I sat with Cam tonight doing his homework and I looked at him....just looked at him. Then, I realized, "Wow. When have I done that?! When have I had the chance or taken the time to sit and really take it all in and look at how truly special they are?" We go through the motions. Many times they talk to me and I answer, "Uh-huhhhh." I don't even look up. I'm guilty.

I know my bad day is all about me. There are no horror stories about the kids that will leave me laughing later. It. Just . Makes. Me. Sad.

So, there it is. Honesty. Please tell me I'm normal.

You are Using that Word Incorrectly

This weekend, we decided to take the kiddos bowling. We are not a family of bowlers. Seriously. The kids weren't far from winning the match (is that what it is called???)...so maybe that just means that Cody and I stink at bowling, and they are actually good. We had a great time. There was zero fighting, whining, OR arguing. Perhaps, we should go bowling EVERY. DAY.

We had only a few eyebrow-raising events. Mallory insisted on throwing the ball rather than rolling it, which led to the ball STOPPING in the lane. I know it must happen A LOT. The guy working was very nice on the couple of occasions that we needed assistance. Sometimes, it took a whopping twenty-five seconds (yes, we timed it) for the kids' balls to make it completely down the lane. Surrounding players thought it was pretty cute. The funniest moment for me happened in the restroom....yep....you read that right. As I took Faith to the potty, she sat and loudly proclaimed, "I have to ON-A-MOT-A-PEEEEEEEE-YAAAAAAAA!" She said this a couple of times, as I tried to quiet her. No, the restroom is never empty. Although the teacher inside of me was slightly happy that she was somewhat saying the word onomatopoeia, it was a little discouraging that it was used incorrectly....and deliberately. The teacher-me had to then speak in an equally loud voice, "Now, Faith was does that word REALLY mean? When to we use onomatopoeia?" Like the occupant in the bathroom really cared!....it made me feel a little better, though.  :)

We played two rounds (or is it matches???), and I hope that we will be going back soon!




To close, I have some random words of wisdom from our Mallory. This week, as we discussed who would take a bath first, Mallory announced, "Girls have to take baths so hairs don't grow from their legs. Boys need to put on deodorant so they don't smell like billy goats." SOOOOOOOO......there you have it.....Mallory is full of advice concerning good hygiene. 

Charles...Gone but Not Forgotten

Sad, how easily we forget things. As I told a friend about one of our first vacations with children, I recalled that I had blogged about it. As I searched the blog for the post, I came across so many things that have been long forgotten. I came across things that brought a huge smile to my face and prompted me to turn and ask the kiddos, "Hey! Do you guys remember this?!" If they didn't, they loved to hear the story, and they have begged me to read the blog to them.


Good old Charles...I can't believe that I had forgotten him. He is the figure that could be a kid one day and a grown man the next. He was the one that influenced Cameron to do all things bad in his toddler years. If you ever asked Cameron WHY he was in to such mischief, he was proud to announce that Charles did it or told him to. The pediatrician even heard stories of Charles. I found several stories about Charles during my blog search! I giggled and asked Cameron if he remembered Charles. He smiled and said, "You mean my imaginary friend?" He wouldn't elaborate and the conversation ended there. Charles is a thing of the past, I guess. I kinda' miss the character!


As the years pass, I have slowly stopped snapping photos, printing photos, and definitely blogging. Skimming posts made me realize how easily and how much can be forgotten. I MUST do better! I have two first graders and a kindergartener! TIME SLOW DOWN!


Life is definitely just as interesting as it was when I blogged frequently....if not more. The kids have quite the personalities, which are all very different from each other. A day never goes by when I don't have to turn my back so that they don't see me laughing at a comment or action they make.


Faith is my firecracker. She runs the show and she is a natural leader. She doesn't want or need help. What drives me crazy about her will ultimately make her a very successful woman. She can manipulate to get her way, but she also has a very loving side.....she is a true friend.  She loves snap chat and has recently requested her own phone. :)

Cameron is my little boy with the kind heart. Not as confident as his sister, he isn't the bold one. Loving all things hunting, he vows to shoot his first deer this year.  He has already found his true love and tells me that he will never move far away...just across the pasture with his wife.  His giggle is infectious, and he finds the most humor in potty humor or some other form of mischief.....he no longer blames Charles!

My Mallory is the baby, indeed. She stays glued to momma, and she is my official bedtime buddy. Mallory is shy, and she often likes to play alone. She does her own thing and isn't a follower. She has such a kind and soft heart and is a bit of a worrier. Mallory can also try to manipulate me with her moody ways. Today, after I wouldn't let her have a popsicle, she threatened me with, "Well, I won't be your bedtime buddy!" My response??? "Oh REALLY?! I really love you sleeping on my head every night!" Faith rolled her eyes and said, "C'mon Mallory. Mom really doesn't like you as a bedtime buddy."

Love them.

You're Thankful for Dating?!

Facebook has really gotten me in the mood to blog again. Each day, I see past past posts and things that I have so easily forgotten. So....I'm going to give this blogging a try once more.  That way, if I DO forget little moments, I will be able to easily retrieve them.

I will NOT try to play catch up....I will begin right in the present. We are on Thanksgiving break, and the time away from school is much needed! I'm so happy that all of my kiddos like school, but we are all exhausted. This Thanksgiving we are very thankful that we are all at Lake Oconee Academy together. Prayers were certainly answered. So, this week we are trying to relax, gear up for Christmas, and have a little fun.

Thanksgiving break is never complete without someone being sick. Today, we made a trip to Athens for Mallory....ear infection. Luckily, she doesn't feel too bad....she wanted to go see a movie this morning (along with Faith and Cam), and their wish is my command. We already have our Christmas tree up and ready. Tomorrow we are going to start cooking for Thursday (basically desserts).

They have certainly been energetic this week...and they are on a kick in which two often pair up against one. Many times, Cam and Mallory stick together. Their conversation usually goes something like, "Hey, Mawee....you wanna be my best buddy? Come play this with me." This really means, "Hey, Mallory. Come play this with me and don't play with Faith."
Other times, the girls team up on poor Cameron. Somehow, I never feel sorry for Faith when she is left out. That girl can take care of herself. Cameron, however, is SO KIND HEARTED. As soon as the girls start on him, he comes crying...just heartbroken...."Day hurtin' my feewings!!!"

Thanksgiving  break is not much of a break, but I am Thankful that I have this craziness in my life. I will end with some of the things that my kiddos are thankful for.  They were asked to identify what freedoms they were thankful for for Veteran's Day....but I think that it is appropriate to share right here at Thanksgiving, too. These were their responses at school:

Cameron: I am thankful for the freedom of having a place to sleep.

Faith: I am thankful for the freedom of marrying and dating.

That last sentence ensures me that I have a LONG road ahead.

My Little Teachers

I cannot believe that the school year is flying by. MARCH is almost here and it is hard to fathom that I will have two in kindergarten and one in preschool very soon!  All of my babies will be in school, and, hopefully, at LOA with me.  I remember contemplating where we would send the kids to school (only an issue here in Greene) when they were babies, and we always said, "WELL, that's a LONG time away." A long time ended very quickly! As March nears, Cody and I are also reminded that we could have had a little one turning SIX at this time, possibly sharing a birthday with YaYa. With that loss came an understanding that things and life occurs in His timing....not that of our own. We are so grateful for our sweet family, and each March I'm reminded of the trials that also brought us triumph.

The kids are doing great at school and Faith and Cameron are well adjusted to being separated. I have  been slightly alarmed by the things the kiddos have obviously been teaching their peers, however, although these things have also made me giggle....

 Cameron often chooses to go in the house keeping area during center time. Of course, he would! He has a kind heart, who loves his "baby" better than the girls like their dolls.....and don't judge, people.....I think it's great for him to show characteristics of being a good daddy. Housekeeping would be a perfect place to play mommy and daddy! HOWEVER.....when he also turns up a container and calls it a "daddy drink," that's really not a proud mommy moment. Yes, he did this at school.....in the housekeeping center.  I insist....we ARE NOT alcoholics and I do not allow drunkenness within my house!!! However, Cody does enjoy a beverage of choice in the afternoons....hence, the "Daddy drink."  Faith's extracurriculars, on the other hand, consist of teaching friends how to give "wet willies."  She vehemently denies such activity, but there are too many friends, who say otherwise.

Mallory will soon be turning four! She is my quiet one, and I don't think I will be hearing such stories about her. The challenge with little Mallory is to get her to come out of her shell (in public places, at least). She wants an "Elsa" party, and I really need to start getting on top of that! She is ready for wam weather!!! She detests winter clothing and prefers shorts and t-shirts each day after returning home from school.

How lucky are we?! Three kiddos with such different personalities!!!

Mallory after her last birthday!!! Can't believe she will be four soon!!!

Would You Jump off a Bridge If.....

Faith and Cameron are now FIVE. I can't believe it! I still think of them as little babies, but I catch glimpses of the big girl and boy that they truly are.  I catch those glimpses as we have conversations, as they jump into the car and buckle themselves, and as they kiss mommy and daddy goodbye and walk into a classroom (tear).  When I have time to sit and truly watch them at play, I think, "Wow. I can't believe these babies ARE NOT babies. How can this be?!" As many, I often get caught up in the craziness of life and often find myself going through the motions of each day. There have been many days that I simply want to survive.  In doing so, these kiddos have seemed to grow overnight!  This birthday reminded me of the need to SLOW DOWN....because time certainly will not.






The birthday party was a success. We had it at Pump It Up in Athens and we had a great turnout! I am so thankful that Faith and Cam have such good little buddies.  The party was superhero themed, with the cake being a half blue and half pink Superman emblem. It was great.


These days, my kiddos are getting good at blaming things on each other....OR....they have done something because the other has told them to or done it first.  I am also getting good at becoming my own parents, which is not a BAD thing. Today, Mallory tried to get herself out of trouble by claiming that Cameron had done something FIRST. I proceeded with the famous line of, "Well, if Cam jumped off a bridge, would YOU?!" That just doesn't work on my kids...I've tried it before, and I do not know why I keep using the line. All three thought that this was funny. "YEAH," Mallory said, seemingly excited about jumping off of a bridge.  Okay.....well....I tried the line of "If Cameron picks his nose, would you?" That didn't work, either. All three immediately put their fingers up their noses and died laughing. AGHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't win when they are all against me.


They are not all bad, though. They have some good tendencies.  On the way to Madison tonight, Cameron wanted to spit his gum out. Cody rolled down the window and said, "Spit far, son."  Cameron was looking at Cody like he was crazy and adamantly shook his head no. We all urged him to do it. I thought he was simply scared with the window down. Cameron shouted, "I can't do dat! Dats called a litta bug." Yep, Cameron. Littering is a no no. :) 


The night ended at WalMart, tonight. The kids now HATE shopping. However, we HAD to have something for breakfast tomorrow morning, and I needed to pick up some things for LOA's spirit week.  The kids stayed in the car with Cody. I am certain that I took longer than necessary, and as I reached the parking lot, the car was empty. Where could they be? Yep. Multiple potty needs. Cody had the treat of one at the urinal and two in the stalls, shouting that "It may be a while."  He didn't think that it was as funny as I did.

Potty Humor

Within the last four weeks, we have had a virus, pink eye, the flu, and ear infections. I have to say that my children are not normally so "sickly."  However, when we DO happen to catch something, we really make a go at it. We are perfectionists in this house, and we don't do ANYTHING half way. ;)  We are now on a second round of antibiotics trying to get everyone all better before school.

It's great that kids are so resilient. They have a fever one minute and are jumping from one couch to the other the next second. In fact, only shortly ago, we administered Motrin for achy ears....I am now begging these children to stop jumping on the bed. As. I. Type. It sure is pitiful when they DO fall lifeless on the couch....but....it sure is hard to convince pediatricians/pharmacists that your kids have a legitimate reason to be in the office when they are all smiles and mischief.

Friday morning, I called the pediatrician upon their opening.  Only giving me one hour and ten minutes to get my three sleeping children to Athens, we were in a race to get out the door. I am proud to say that we made it.. AND...not a minute late. We also had matching socks on AND all shoes were on the correct feet (something that we have become notorious for NOT accomplishing).  Anywho, my lovely children were fairly well behaved, until the doctor happened to scoot her chair closer to them.  The scoot sounded more like a bodily function that rhymes with scoot. As the pediatrician listened to Faith's chest, Faith certainly tried her best to maintain composure. Cameron began to make his own noises, and the trio couldn't hold in their laughter. I'm glad our doctor can appreciate potty humor.  She could also see and hear A LOT of congestion so enter the antibiotics. 

While the antibiotics do their jobs, my kids are also trying to find remedies for ME. I'm not oblivious to the fact that I am seeing some definite signs of aging! These fine lines and wrinkles are NO JOKE.  The kids often see me with a mask or cleanser on my face, so THEY are not oblivious to the fact that I do not embrace the fine lines and wrinkles.  Yesterday, a skincare commercial came on. I'm sure the girl wasn't a day over twenty.  Cameron said, "Mom. You should get that stuff. Dat girl doesn't have no wrinkles like you."  Love it.  No harm, though...he made up for that remark when he told me today, "I love you. Your name is on my heart."  Watch out girls. This boy can say ALL OF THE RIGHT THINGS!

New Year, Here We Come!

So long 2014...hello 2015!

We celebrated the New Year quietly at home, playing with Ninja Turtles and Frozen dolls....just SOME of the treasures that the kiddos received for Christmas. Each year, Christmas stresses me OUT....what should I get the kids (and everyone else)....will they have enough....or do they each have an equal amount???...AND...THEN....we are always bombarded with the immense amount of things that we receive! How very grateful we are to be able to celebrate Christmas in a big way...and be surrounded by family. ANYWAY...the New Year's celebration was an uneventful one, but I did receive a BIG kiss at the stroke of midnight. Yep, my Cameron made it to see the ball drop....the first year ever...the girls watched via YouTube today. :)

This year was a good one. There are not TOO many events that stand out in my mind, but we are in a good place. These kids are growing and thriving. They began school!  They will ALL join me at LOA next year, and, for that, I can breathe a sigh of relief!  My transition to LOA began as a chance application, to a forced decision, and, now, a true blessing. I am so happy to be back in a regular classroom, part of an amazing staff, and able to have at least part of my family there with me.

Just as we settle down from Christmas, we are gearing up for Faith and Cameron's 5th birthday!!! I can't believe it...well...part of me can...because I would be lying if I said that those first years were anything other than LONG. ;)  These two are so very different but equally special. We have decided to have the party at Pump It Up in Athens. With cold weather, I think that this will work perfectly for a January birthday. I can't imagine what these two could possibly need or get for their birthdays...but Faith has requested a camera, Cameron wants a gun cabinet. Yes, they are turning 5....not 15....

On a side note....do you know something that I LOVE?  Sometimes, when it's quiet and we are done with play, the kids will say out of the blue, "Momma and Daddy, you know what? I love you."  At least this way, we'll NEVER run out of things to say. Love these babies to pieces!

This is an oldie...but all that I could find on this computer! :)

My sweet ones have grown even since this picture!

My Best Buddy

Oh, how I hate Mondays! I feel that everything I do is not right or not good enough, and it is very hard for me to just jump back into the groove of things! :(  Things will be better tomorrow I am sure!


The weekend was nice and uneventful. Saturday morning, Cody headed to get a nice surprise for the "kids." I am certain that it was only for them! ;)  Anyway, he purchased a Polaris Ranger. The kids were excited about it, and Mallory calls it the "Power Ranger." You won't hear me correct her...I think that it is TOO cute.


One development over the last couple of days is our taking notice of how differently the kids are interacting with each other. For the most part, they have always gotten along. They've played nicely together and never competed for each other's attention. Now, they are battling for a "best buddy." Mallory is usually the one that goes back and forth between the twins. She is either Faith's best buddy or Cameron's.....and anything can make her change her mind and go from one to the other. For Faith, the thought of not having Mallory on her side means little to nothing. However, she uses it to torment Cameron when Mallory is on her side. Cameron, my soft hearted one, gets his heart broken. For now, I have just let them work it out as it arises. I am interested to see how it plays out....and I may just have to intervene sooner or later. ;)


Cam will never be alone, however....he has Charles, of course (his imaginary friend). Yes, Charles is still around, and he is still quite the character. He goes from young to old....alive to deceased. He even has a dad name "Kenneth." He continues to teach Cameron things that are less than appropriate, and he just told me that he called him at school....but Cam was busy talking to Miss Emily. :)

Comings and Goings

I can't believe that I have not posted since APRIL!!! That's just WRONG!!! There have been plenty of things that I have wanted to jot down so that I remember them forever, and I often find myself saying, "That's blog-worthy," but I never find myself sitting down at the computer to follow-through. A few weeks ago, I took one of those silly quizzes online about what profession you are truly made for. Guess what I got?! A writer!!! I took that as a sign that I should get back to blogging! This is sad, but it took me a couple of tries to remember my password on here, but, when I did get it right, I read some of my last posts. They made me smile about things that I had already forgotten that my sweet babies have said or done! So, back to blogging....and trying to hold on to those memories for a lifetime! ;)

SOOOO much has happened since April, so I will use this post to play catch-up (it may be a bit boring). That's your WARNING.

SUMMER FUN, SUMMER LOVE

We had a great time this summer. We rarely stayed home. We spent much needed time with family, swam to our hearts' content, and had no regards to a schedule, diet, or bedtime! It was great!

The kids...yes, all three....were in a wedding. I stressed about this and how they would perform, but, as they always do, they pulled through! They were just gorgeous, and it left us very proud.  At weddings, love is in the air, and it hit Cam HARD! Kate Merritt was also in the wedding....and she and my boy shared a KISS. Cameron later told me, "Momma, you know when I fell in lub with Kate? When she kissed me." I am in for SO. MUCH. TROUBLE. He has also told me that when he gets scared at night, he just thinks. I asked him WHAT he thinks about. He said, "Kate." OH. MY.

We also had a great vacation. We went with YaYa, Pat, and Ray-Ray this year. The destination was Panama City Beach. The kiddos were pretty awesome...each year it gets easier....and each year I look more forward to it. Let's face it...in years past, vacation was NOT a vacation. It was more like torture. ;)

I'm Moving On

I've had a fairly big change in my life, as well. I accepted a new job at Lake Oconee Academy. It was a hard decision, but a decision that I knew that I would make at some point. I have always wanted to be closer to home, and I want the best educational opportunities for my own babies. Very torn between what I had considered my "home," for seven years and this new opportunity, I ultimately made the decision to move on...and it was primarily because I knew that it would be the best decision for my family. It always interests me how interested OTHERS are about this change....and let's be honest....it's mainly for information about specific schools and school systems. All I can say is this....I feel very blessed that God has chosen to use me at the current school that I am at. I have always been amongst SUPERIOR teachers in the past and present....and I will continue to try my very best in the position that I am in. Right now, I am co-teaching in first grade. The kids are great, and I am adjusting and enjoying being back in a homeroom setting! I am excited to have all of my babies with me at LOA next year!

Pre-K

Faith and Cameron were not accepted into LOA this year. So, they are attending Lakeview Academy's Bright from the Start PreK program. At the last minute, a spot opened for Mallory, too! So, all of my babies are in one spot. We had to say goodbye to Granny B....which was hard to do. Goodbye did not last long, however. After a rough week at school, I decided that I couldn't handle it ALL. So, Granny B comes on Fridays to help at the house. She keeps the kids for a couple of hours until I can get home, as well. I think that she is SUPER excited to continue to be a part of our lives...we know that we are happy to have her!

The kids are liking school okay...I would not say that they are LOVING it. They are not excited about going, but it seems that they have a good time when they get there. They HATE homework....and I can foresee a LONG road ahead of me/them in that capacity. Mallory is having the hardest time. She cannot understand that Faith and Cam are in the same class, but she is left alone in hers. After much talking, I convinced that that her going their class would be IMPOSSIBLE...so she had finally opened up in her classroom and has began talking SOME.

Things to come

We are looking forward to our fall breaks....although our fall breaks do not align with each other. I think that we are all in need of a break. On October 7th, please be in prayer for our Ray-Ray. She will have a brain tumor removed. It will be a LONG surgery, but the doctors are very optimistic. Please be in prayer for not only Ray-Ray but her doctor's and family, as well!

I think that's it! I am sure that there will be funny stories to come SOON!

Happy Birthday to "Mawee"

I may be a month late with Mallory's birthday post, but that doesn't mean it was any less special! It's hard to believe that my babies are not so much like babies anymore! MALLORY IS NOW THREE!


Mallory's birthday always falls during my spring break, which is wonderful. I was able to take cupcakes to her class. She was so excited! Her entire birthday week was great...we had a picnic in the park, a trip to Chuck E Cheese, and lunches out with ice cream. Mallory's party was at the end of the week, and, luckily, I had done much of the party prep before Thursday evening...because that's when catastrophe hit. The virus got Cameron first. Friday was a day full of baking. For some reason, I thought that I could get all crafty and mother-of-the-yearish and do most of it myself. Needless to say, I ended up running to Wal Mart last minute because I didn't like the way my cupcakes looked. Saturday...party day....I knew that I was next. I felt terrible and it hit mid-party! Mallory still had a fabulous time, however, and we are so grateful to have such great family and friends to share her day. Unfortunately, Faith became sick on Sunday. :( My birthday girl remained STRONG...she didn't have time for a virus! She and Cody were the lucky ones.

 The birthday party was at the church. Mallory wanted a Little Mermaid them. I tried to save some money and make the directions myself. :) NEVER. AGAIN.

We also had a bounce house. Because we rented one, we wanted to make sure the kids got as much time having fun as possible. So, we saved to presents for home. Here is one pic....Mallory loved her "Frozen" book!

 

 



To my birthday girl, who keeps me guessing and working for that beautiful smile, I feel truly blessed to have such a special girl. Your strong will is admirable...if not frustrating. ;)  Those eyes could melt anyone's heart, and you have definitely won mine. I know that I say this each year, but God really knew what He was doing when he placed you here with us. A friend told me just this week (in reference to other things), "God's timing is everything." She is definitely right. Never did I imagine that we would welcome another bundle fourteen months after having twins.  We didn't know how much we needed you here to complete our chaotic, little world. It was all in His timing, for sure! We love you baby girl!

Popcorn Trees and Playground Hair

I can not believe how quickly this year is moving along. We JUST celebrated Faith and Cam's birthday, and, here I am, about to plan Mallory's THIRD birthday...wow! I've really done a bad job keeping up with posts, but the kids loved the snow/ice. However, the warmer weather that we've been having has definitely made us ready for SPRING. Cameron could live outside!

We have had quite the busy weeks and weekends lately. Cody has been out of town twice, and I have had to take a trip for work, as well. On all occasions, we both realized how much better things flow when we are both here....and it  makes us extremely thankful for the other. :) We've had great support, of course, with family chipping in when available!

So...bringing us up to this week....

I was the first to bring home "the cold." It's a hard one to shake and it lingers. Cody soon got it....and you know how it goes. I knew that it was only a matter of time before all three kiddos would need to go to the doctor...colds around here usually develop into ear infections, but I was still hopeful. Needless to say, after a night of a screaming Mallory, we needed a trip to the pediatrician on Friday. Although Faith and Cameron were not complaining of their ears, why not let them take a look, too?
Mallory has what the doctor called, "A screaming ear infection," while Faith has fluid. Cameron thinks he is tough since he checked out ok. :)

My doctor's visits never disappoint in regards to excitement or catastrophe. Since I had to get home from Putnam and to Athens in about one hour and thirty minutes, I decided to not call on help from dad in such a short time frame...BIG. MISTAKE. As soon as we entered the office with Mallory on my shoulder, the poor baby puked all over my back and in the waiting room. Talk about stares...lol. Poor Mallory walked all over the pharmacy with her little puke bag. Faith and Cameron yelled at me the whole way home about how "Mommy stinks." Note to self: I need a change of clothes in the diaper bag, too. The bad news is that kiddos are STILL just as congested as ever. This cold is ROUGH!


On a cute note, Cameron has been saying some of the most hilarious things. While I was talking to them about the pretty trees that are blooming with white flowers, he tells me that they are "popcorn trees." How cute is THAT? They kinda' DO look like popcorn!!! When he came down the slide at Chick-fil-A with his hair standing straight up, he said that he had "playground hair." That kid. Love him. Finally, he told Cody that all of the girls "love" him at school. They all want to kiss him. One of the girls with "white hair," wants to marry him. This kid! Love him!

Mallory not-so happy Friday. I got a lot of looks, and she told me, "Don't bodda me." LOL.

He Just told the Pediatrician WHAT?!

Note to self: When your child will not speak to the pediatrician, be happy. Who cares?  Let it be. REALLY.






Cameron, Faith, and Mallory refuse to speak to the pediatrician....specifically Cameron. He will often not respond to the doctor in ANY way. Not a nod. Not a blink. Not an open mouth to check the teeth. Nothing. Just a blank stare. This leaves mommy frustrated. I have said, "You need to be nice to the doctor. She is nice to you. She wants to keep you well. She is going to think that you CAN'T talk!!!"  Why, oh WHY did I really care? I was taught such a valuable lesson today.






Faith and Cam had their well visit today. So, I started in with the pep talks early. "Kids, you really need to talk to the doctor. It's very important."  Well, little did I know that Cameron would give us ALL an ear FULL very soon. It started with the kids doing an excellent job with the eye chart. They covered one eye on cue and actually SPOKE, telling the nurse the names of the objects. YES!!!  Then, I learned that they had to urinate in a cup....I mean, that's hard enough for any ADULT. Great...this should be quite the adventure. Once we accomplished that task with considerable ease, I thought, "Well, we've got this. This is going well." Cameron even began to loosen up after the doctor came in....after he gave her a few blank stares. He even plopped down in my lap and gave her a little smile. I didn't know that it was the smile of a little devil.




I was so boastful when the doctor asked, "So do they have good imaginations?" I went on and on about their great imaginations and about how they have imaginary friends....BIG. MISTAKE.  This is how it went:




Me: Cam, tell Dr. A about your imaginary friend.
Cam: Wyatt, Cooper, and Mason
Me: No, honey. Those are your school friends. What about Charles?
Cam: Charles has a girlfriend. (I am getting nervous because I know where this is going.)
Dr. A: Wow. Charles has a girlfriend?
Cam: Yeah. Charles shot her (I'M DYING...I wanted to pinch him, but I honestly didn't know what to do).
Dr A: He shot her?
Cam: Yeah. She turned into a bear, and he shot her.
Me: Yes. We've been watching the Disney movie Brave (this is a scenario in that movie).
Dr. A: Nods and smiles.




He then went on to tell me that he "pooted" on me (in front of her...and BOY DID HE!).  He then got down from my lap and continued to "poot," and randomly said words that were as equally as embarrassing. Sweet Dr. A laughed it off and commented, "That's how boys are."  She told Cam, "Cameron, I have two boys at home, so no word that you say will surprise me." His response???...this beats it all...."What about HINEY?!"  He got up, turned around, and said, "This is my hiney dance."


I was mortified...and I think that the look on my face said it all.  The pediatrician was awesome and was thrilled that he even talked to her. So, I guess that was a positive way at looking at it.  I left the appointment not knowing their height or weight...I forgot to ask. Since it wasn't mentioned, I imagine that it wasn't a concern.  The poor babies left after four shots, and, although, Cameron's behavior wasn't treat worthy, his bravery for the shots (he didn't cry at all) was deserving of an ice cream afterwards. :)

"You My CuTiE Pie"

It makes you feel so good to have the kids smile at you when they wake up. Many times, they ask me, "Who's gonna' be here when I wake up?" THAT makes me sad, but at least I know that if I can't be here, we have a sitter that loves them like a mother. :) ANYWAY, what I wanted to jot down, is that Cameron snuggled with me lots this morning. I love snuggle time, because my kids are not big snugglers. They are WAY to busy to have time for that. However, Cam was in a snuggle mood and I said, "I love seeing you in the mornings. We can snuggle." He said (and this melts my heart), "I know. You my cutie pie." Needless to say, he got some MAJOR cuddles after that comment.


I also wanted to post that we went to see Frozen on MLK day. I LOVED, LOVED it. I think that it may be one of my favorite Disney movies....and it takes A LOT to replace Tangledl for me. The kids loved it just as much, and we made it through the entire thing. I had Ziploc bags on hand with candy and to fill with popcorn. It was so nice, although I got countless stares from people....never ceases to amaze me how many stares I get....and I'm like, "Yeah. Don't ask. They are ALL mine....and aren't you jealous?!" LOL.


Since seeing Frozen, the kids like to pretend that they ARE the characters OR that they know them. They also beg me to sing the songs from the movie...but I prefer to watch them on YouTube...you have not heard me sing.  The other night, Cam announced, "I have a gulfriend." I was a little surprised so I asked who it was. He matter-of-factly said, "Ana." That's one of the characters. So funny.


This week is expected to be another cold one...with possible snow (so I hear). I really don't want to make up anymore days at school, but I would love for these kiddos to see some snow. THEN, we can really make a snowman...not just sing about it. ;)

It's Their Birfday!

I can't believe my babies are FOUR!!! As slow as some days have been (particularly the days that were spent pacing the floor and bouncing), the years have seemed to fly by. WOW. My babies are not babies anymore.

On to the big day...

I decided to take Faith and Cam's birthday off from work. Last year, I didn't, and I REALLY hated myself for it. So, I got to take them to school, bring cupcakes, AND meet Cody for lunch at the all favorite Chick-fil-a. Faith and Cameron were SO excited and happy. Poor Mallory. She didn't quite understand why Faith and Cameron both had birthdays when she didn't.  So, she had to get a small gift, too. Bless her heart. The day ended with spaghetti for dinner.  IF they HAD to choose, spaghetti would probably be their most favorite dinner...but none of them are big eaters....unless you are offering cake and cookies.

Faith and Cameron tearing into gifts before school. Cam got a Ninja Turtles game, REAL pressure washer (haha), and a watch. Faith received Rapunzel dolls, My Little Ponies, and a watch.

Mallory with her watch. :)

 



Thinking back four years ago, I can recall sitting in the hospital with a big smile thinking, "Who wants one baby when you can have TWO?!" Although there have been trying times (times when I didn't know what TO DO with TWO), we've never lost that perspective. How blessed we have been and how full our hearts have become!!!  Although I am saddened that I can now only see glimpses of the babies that they once were, I am overjoyed to foresee the beautiful individuals that I am sure that they will become.

Faith and Cameron, I have always thought of you as my miracle babies...simply amazing...and amaze us you continue to do. You two are full of life, full of joy, and glorious surprises.  Mommy and Daddy love you to the moon and back.

***We followed the kiddos birthday with a family bday party the following weekend! Faith and Cam chose separate cakes this year: Rapunzel and Ninja Turtles, so we really didn't have a theme.  It was like Christmas all over again, and I can not imagine any other toy that they could possibly need or get! We are all truly blessed!***

That Charles

Just a few things that I don't want to forget....ever. ;)




I do believe everyone now knows Charles...aka...Cam's best friend...aka....Cam's imaginary best friend. Charles has proven to be a bad influence as Cameron tends to blame any inappropriate behaviors on his bff.  Charles tends to teach Cameron bad language and mischievous acts (hahaha). However, I must give Charles credit when credit is due. He might not be such a bad guy/boy (Charles also has the power to be young one day and a "gwown up" the next) after all.  The kids have taken an interest in growing up and getting married. Faith and Cameron often say that they will grow up and marry each other.  However, one night at dinner, Cameron comes out with, "I'm gonna' marry Charles girlfriend." Hmmm. I go on to tell Cameron that it really doesn't work that way. We don't marry other people's girlfriends. Charles would be mad, of course! Cameron just looked at me, shrugged his shoulders, cocked his head to the side, and said, "Charles will share." That was that.  Now, Charles is a good friend, don't you think?! ;)




Mallory has taken to potty training!!! In all honesty, I was not planning on doing that until summer. SHE initiated the training, however, and I am game! Parents, this is the way to go! Why push your kids to potty train when they are not ready?! Mallory is doing great (for the most part), and I am not begging and pleading. WOOHOO. Go Mallory Jo! I am so proud of her....I will try to forget that moment when she told a teacher friend of mine that she (and I quote), "Did a bolda (boulder) in the potty...two of dem." Thanks, Cody for that terminology.


Faith and Cam's bday is today. I can't believe that they are FOUR!!! I will be posting about that soon!

"Happy Howidays is Oba"

"Happy Howidays is oba." Poor Malllory sounded so disappointed when she told me that the other night. We certainly DID have a great Christmas filled with lots of family and gathering after gathering. We began out Christmas on the 23rd and continued right through Christmas night! We were absolutely exhausted when it's all over and done, but I really wouldn't have it any other way.

So, here are some pictures of our "Happy Howiday":

 

 

 

The kids had their very first program!!! I took that day off because I certainly did not want to miss it!!! I had so much fun taking them to school...so precious. Anyway, Faith, Cam, and Mallory were not the most vocal in the program,  but they went up there, at least moved their mouths, and even did some motions! I was very proud. My mom was able to come, as well, and we celebrated with lunch at Chick-fil-a.

 

 

We did have an Elf on the Shelf. His name was Sam. I am not a fan of making your elf get into mischief. The whole purpose of an Elf on the Shelf is to keep YOUR children out of mischief, so WHY let your elf to all of these CRAZY things?! So normally, Sam just moved each night. Cody made it a little fun, though. He thought it would be super funny to find Sam a girlfriend. So, many mornings, we would find Sam with one of Faith and Mallory's barbies (see above). Leave it to Cody. :)

 

 

We did get a chance to make Christmas cookies! MeMe, Poppy, and Autumn joined us....thank goodness! We made quite the mess.

 

Here's Cam on Christmas morning! He loved his toy guns that Santa brought him. He got hunting stuff, trucks and trailers, and Ninja turtles, of course!

There's Mallory! She liked these little princesses that are in front of her. She also got a puppet theatre (she LOVES puppets), Sophia toys, and loads of Disney princess stuff.

 

Faith is checking out the bike! All of the kids got bikes, as well. Faith also received her Rapunzel dress and wig, Disney princess toys, and art supplies. Actually, the girls got very similar things, and Santa placed their stuff together so that they could just pick and choose which was theirs. :) It worked out nicely.

 



So, we were beyond blessed at Christmas...and we are each day. 

Charles Strikes Again

How do you forbid a child from playing with his friend???....ESPECIALLY if the friend is IMAGINARY???!!!

Okay, so it's not THAT serious, but this Charles character is a bad influence on my Cameron. I do believe that I have mentioned Charles before. Any time that Cameron says or does something inappropriate, he often blames it on Charles. This is how a conversation went yesterday in the car:

Cameron: Dad, stop being a lunatic!
Me: Did he just say LUNATIC?! Cody: Yep.
Me: What do you know about the word lunatic?!
Cameron: Charles say it. I went to his house one day, and he called his mom a lunatic.

Yep. Interesting, huh? I thought it was a bit funny, too.

Faith, is quite a character herself...always has been...that's nothing new. This morning, I threatened to eat all of the Krispy Kreme donuts and not give her any. She looked at me like I was crazy, and said, "Well, you'd get a belly ache."

Mallory, is simply growing up. She is outgrowing some of her belly issues, and she is much more content. She is talking non-stop, but what I love the most is her constant telling us, "I lub you."

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas!!!

We are counting down the days until Christmas break in the Patrick house....well....maybe it is just me, but we had a great time during Thanksgiving and it has only left me longing for MORE!

Christmas decorating came a little early this year...even earlier than the last. We bought a new tree for the living room and placed our old one in the playroom for the kids. Faith, Cameron, and Mallory loved helping with the first one, but they were WAY over it on the second go 'round! I love Christmas decorations. If I had plenty of time and/or money, I would likely go a little CRAZY. :)

Thanksgiving break was nice and needed. We slept in, hung out in pajamas, and stayed in bed and watched the morning cartoons...my favorite was Princess Sophia. We also made a trip to Chuck E Cheese! The kids were troopers on our LONG Thanksgiving day and they had a special treat with an entire day with daddy while I shopped like mad on Friday....and by the way, I am almost COMPLETELY finished with my Christmas shopping.

So, Christmas is coming, and those Christmas cards need to be sent out. I contemplated not sending any...but I know how much I enjoy receiving...so I quickly pushed that thought out of my mind. I love my children and their funny personalities, but, when it comes to getting all three of them in a decent picture, I would rather take a spanking...or better yet give them one. Here we go....I took at least one hundred. Picture taking with these three really brings out the Grinch in me..........

Starting off sitting....Faith was the only one that consistently took this adventure seriously.

 



Mallory became the leader...she thought it to be really cute to stand if I said sit....Cam's loving it, can't you tell?

 

Decent...

Moving to the porch....and silly again.

 

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Stay tuned for your card in the mail....I finally got a good one. :)



Imaginary BFFs

I must do a little bragging on my children. We decided not to go to the truck pull over the weekend. It was cold and the kids had coughs and runny noses. So, it was just us for most of the weekend. They were wonderful. Little angels. We stayed overnight with my mom and dad on Friday. They thought that was a treat! Saturday, we (just me and the kids) headed to WalMart to fill their shoe boxes that they are doing for school (you know the boxes that are sent to underprivileged children for Christmas).  I thought that it would be a good idea to let them help with it, but I was also hesitant and fearful that they would pitch a tantrum when they realized that they wouldn't be getting ANYTHING! I had no reason to worry, however...these kids were awesome. They walked the entire time and were great at picking things out. They never once asked to keep the stuff that we purchased. SO. VERY. SWEET.

Now, on to the funny story...

I do believe that I have mentioned my children's imaginary friends before. I think that it is so cute...and interesting. Having constant playmates with each other, I really wouldn't have dreamed that they would need imaginary ones. Nonetheless, they do....and their names are HILARIOUS. I was reminded to write about this because they were talking about their little friends tonight. Cody asked Cameron if he had spoken to Charles today. Just a week or so ago, Cameron had revealed that Charles had quite the potty mouth. Since then, if he says something that he should not, Cam continues to blame it on Charles. "Well, Charles say it." It is too funny. Since Charles seems to be a bad influence, I was relieved to hear that Cameron had not spoken to 'ole Charles today. Mallory, on the other hand, shouts, "I talk to Puddintain Daddy!" Yes...Puddintain.  She goes on to say,"Puddintain say bad word at school, Daddy." The kids didn't even go to school today. She was very convincing, though. Mallory kept saying it over and over.  Faith later said that her friend, AK, was badly hurt in an accident and she was teaching her how to write again. I think that this comes from our nightly prayers for Tripp Halstead, the little boy who suffered brain injuries from a falling tree.

My children....love, love, love!