Okay So There Are No Pictures

We spent the week before Christmas in Hickory with Rob's folks. And I didn't take my camera. That's usually Rob's job and so I left my camera behind. Well Rob took his, but he was so busy with his new Flip camera, which he adores, he didn't take any still photos. And as you know from previous posts I am NOT ALLOWED TO TOUCH THE NIKON. Which is fine by me, but I didn't take my camera--so no photos.

The kids had a lot of fun playing with cousins, making cookies and driving Grandma crazy. It's first Christmas in about four years that no one has been sick. No colds, no strep, no stomach ickiness. Can I just say it rocked! That doesn't mean we won't get sick later--and we were sick at Thanksgiving, but not sick on Christmas was nice. Oh so nice!

The kids got fish for Christmas. Well I should say a fish tank. Santa couldn't swing the fish since we were in Hickory. So Rob is in the process (much more complicated then he realized) of cycling the tank to accept fish. If you know Rob, you know how much he wants things to go perfectly, and how much research has gone into this. I'll post a fish pic once we get fish in the tank. We are hoping for Tuesday or Wednesday.

Other wise the kids got mostly games and books. My kind of Christmas. There were a few toys. But not a ton.I of course got books. I love books, and I've read only three of the books I got. I think I got about ten. I've been trying not to let myself completely disappear over the holidays. Most of the books I got were ones I had already read, and deemed worthy of owning. I only have so much space, and so I must say I am a book snob. But Rob always goes and gets me a surprise book--and he always does a good job. This time is was Little Brother by Cory Doctorow, which was awesome. A fun and informative book about hacking and fighting back against the impositions that the government puts on us. When I say informative I mean the guy tells you how to hack things and stuff. Totally cool and geeky and I love, love, loved it. I must admit I kind of glossed over some things that were way over my head because I don't really get the technical side of hacking--though I really think I could if I wanted to. Hmmm I picture myself in a different life with different career choices.

Speaking of career. I finished my first draft of my novel on Friday. Do my little dance of glee. I finished. I really did. It ended up at about 50,000 words, but I think I need to flesh stuff out, so I'm hoping it will be closer to the 75,000 that I was hoping for. Just to give you an idea 50,000 words equates to about 178 pages. I am hoping to start querying in March, but that is going to take intense work and focus.

Rob is enjoying his break, his Christmas present, and is editing and watching Ghosthunters. He also just went downstairs to test the water in the fish tank. I told you he was way into it. ; )

Now I am feeling very random and wordy so I thought I would share that in the last two months I have won two contests on blogs. Both gave me free young adult books--which is totally my thing. But I thought I'd share the links, kind of as a thanks. I may have a contest someday, but I've got other things to focus on now.

The first contest I won was on Aprilynne Pike's blog. She wrote a book Wings which debuts in May. I want to read it. I like the cover, and I've followed her story from shortly after she sold the book to getting it published. I won Hunger Games from her (which is my favorite book of the year).

And I just won two books, and some bath salts from the Shrinking Violets Promotions blog. I read this blog to learn more about promoting myself. It works for me, because truly I am an introvert. I am not ashamed to admit this anymore. Anyway the blog is great, especially if you are an aspiring writer.

I love this time of year. I love to set goals and look back at the things I've accomplished. I'm that way and I know it drives Rob nuts. But oh well. So I'm off to set me some goals, and create a plan to achieve them. I'll post pics later in the week.

Updates!

It's been busy since Thanksgiving. The visit from my folks went well. The kids had fun and there are a few pictures at the bottom if you want to check them out. It was nice to see everyone and I thought Matt did really well with the kids this time. 

But while my folks were here Caleb got strep (the first time the kids have gotten it). Rob's had it since we've had kids four times--and I haven't tested positive since I got my tonsils out in fifth grade. I had high hopes that my kids would get my immunity but alas it is not so. (And because I said I was immune I will now get strep five times this next year.) Caleb's feeling much better now.

Beth turned seven today! She's doing great and she had a fun party yesterday. Today she said she wanted to move to be where Jesus was going to come back--and I asked where that was and she said Kansas. So I think she is missing Jane a bit. This conversation then went to Caleb saying he missed Paul, and me saying I missed Taliatha. Jacob was asleep or he would have said he misses Mallory!

Funny thing happened yesterday. I'm going to write the conversation word for word.

Beth: Mom, how does a farmer move his cows?

Me: I don't know.

Beth: In a Moooving Van

Me: Laughs appreciatively.

Caleb: Mom, how does a farmer move his pigs?

Me: How?

Caleb: In a Mooving Oink!

Me: Laughing a bit harder for sheer creativity --Good one Caleb!

Jacob: mala mooo malaa

So I cracked up. Jacob got that they were making jokes and he caught that the moo was essential and joined in. I couldn't be more proud. He also had his first two word sentence bye bye wa-er.  He's making progress slow and steady.  His tests came back normal but his growth hormone was the lowest that it can be and still be considered normal. The range is like 30-80 and he had a 30. Caleb's range was always that as well. We go back in a few months. We got him to take the vitamins. I let him pick it out of the bottle, and then cut it in half for him and then he eats it. I'm relieved this works, because he so stubborn and it is impossible to get him to take medicine without pinning him down.

Rob got a Flip camera for Christmas--yeah I know it's not Christmas yet. And he's been doing short videos. I'll post an update with a link when he gets them up. He's frustrated with software right now and lamenting the fact that nothing is as good as Final Cut Pro, but he doesn't want to use that on these short videos--he wants a good down and dirty editing program. iMovie doesn't cut it and the software that came with the Flip certainly doesn't either. 

I've been toying with the idea of making this blog private. It may be awhile before I do this, so I will post before I do to collect your email and add it to my approved list. The thing is that I can only let 100 addresses in that way. And I know I don't have that many readers. Also I like friends to be able to find me, but I worry about other people finding it to. What do you think I should do?

PS I posted pics below. Enjoy!

New Sunday Clothes

Sorry that some of these are slightly blurry. The settings on my camera were wrong, and it took forever for the pictures to take--and well I shake so the camera shakes. Rob came down for the last two (which show up as the first two) and fixed the camera and took the pictures. These new clothes are courtesy of Nana, and I think that they all look adorable.

Beth's Birthday Party

So Beth turned 7 today. Wow 7. I feel old and not old at the same time. I can't believe that seven years have gone by so quickly. I am so proud of my little girl who is growing up so fast. She's doing great, enjoying school and making friends. She had a party yesterday. She wanted it to be a Hannah Montana party. She wanted Hannah Montana to come and preform, but I had to break it to her that we just couldn't afford that.

I don't actually have pictures of the party. Rob will put them up on his site in a day or two, but I do have some of the cake and decorations. I thought the pink and purple streamers made an interesting contrast with the guitars we hung on the wall. The girls had the usually games, and the magic show. Then they ate cake and played the new Wii game Sing It. They had a lot of fun.

Beth's 7th Birthday Party from Robert Caldwell on Vimeo.

Parent's Visit

So my parents came to visit the first weekend of December--we also had a quick visit from Cameron--my sister Sarah's husband for a school interview. It was pretty crowded in are small place, but a lot of fun.  The girls went shopping--the boys hung out. My parents had a mini Christmas and the kids got to open their presents from them. Here are the pictures. Beth got an American Girl Doll--and yes, I am jealous. I ALWAYS wanted one--No Fair! Caleb got WallE and Eve and Jacob got the new Elmo toy. He was afraid at first, but overcame it by that night. He loves grooving out to it all the time now. He dances when Elmo dances and tells it stop and go.

The Endocrinologist

So today was Jacob's visit to the endo. It went well. I liked her. She talked about all the same things that Caleb's gastro talked about, but she ran the test that we wanted her to--the growth hormone factoring test. Yeah! Turns out that Jacob's iron is pretty low, so we'll work on getting that up and see if he gets more energetic. Then if the the three other tests she runs come back normal we'll see her in March. Whew! She said that most of Jacob's tests (except iron) look normal and healthy. I'm really wondering what that growth hormone test is going to say. Really, really, really. 

Thanksgiving was fun. Beth had fun hanging out with Chloe. They went skating and Beth stayed at her house more than at Grandma's. Caleb was sick most of the time, but it didn't stop him from having fun. Pap built a big fire and he just ate it up. Thanksgiving was relaxing. Gerry did most of the cooking and he did a great job. The cousins all made slime together. It was gross to look at, but cool when it was done. These activities were all accomplished camera-less. I didn't take my camera, because Rob took his, but he didn't get it out. I snuck his out for one picture of the kids peeling apples, but Rob found out and yelled at me. (I knew he would) and now I can't get the picture off the camera or I will face his wrath!

The drive home from Thanksgiving was not so great. We left earlier than normal and it took five hours to get home. It was stop and go so much of the way, and I started to worry because the car was making a funny whining noise. But it turns out that it was the feedback from the radio and iPod connection thing. Whew! I was really getting worried. I like my van. It makes me happy.

A funny little story about Caleb. He's still doing his sports classes, and it switched again to basketball this week. Now a little background--the classes are at 4:30 which is a cranky time for Caleb. So much so that we aren't going to continue. He won't do the tape of warm ups with the group--he doesn't like to run because it makes me tired, and so on. Well today he lined up to run and the instructor always has them say what fast thing they are going to be and he said a snail! She laughed (this was prompted by Rob in an attempt to get him to run). After that they got out the basketballs. Normally he's pretty good handling the ball, not today. And every time he dropped the ball and it rolled away he would go and get it by lying down and rolling to it. I wish I had the camera. It was so funny! (Rob used this moment to advocate for the flip camera that he wants-but also denies wanting--but secretly he is working his devious plan of brain washing me into it--I know what you are up to Rob!) We ended up leaving early because Caleb just decided he was done. It was that type of a day.

My parents come in this week, and we should have lots of fun stuff with them. I will have my camera so expect pictures this next week!

Quick Update!

Caleb's night wasn't as bad as it could have been. He ran a high fever, and coughed, lots, but the humidifier and the fact that he is older--I think--kept us from needing to do a croup run! Phew.

Plus both boys slept till nine, so I went back to sleep for a bit after Beth caught the bus to school. That was definitely a plus.

Just got back from taking Jacob in for his sleepiness. The doctor decided to send him to the endrocrinoligist for Failure to Thrive (FTT). She had assumed that Caleb had gone to an endo, when he had actually gone to a gastro. She actually seemed disgusted that Caleb hasn't gone to an endo, so we plan on getting him a referral at his well visit in January. This confusion is a result of going to different peds in the same practice. Caleb sees one dr, Jacob another, and Beth yet another. I think we'll pull them altogether.

Rob and I decided to go to Duke Endo for Jacob after the mess with Caleb and the gastro at UNC. Nice person, but wouldn't run the tests we thought he needed (Human Growth Hormone tests). Chances are that they are both slightly deficient, though we think Jacob is a bit worse. But that part is just our speculation. Also we were impressed with the ENT at Duke that Jacob saw when they tested his hearing.  Jacob's appointment is next Tuesday. So we won't have to wait long to figure out. He also had three vials of blood drawn and a urinalysis done with results expected back next week so if it is something else, we will catch it then as well.

Catching Up!

Scroll on down, because I've done a lot of back photos and updates. I've been taking pictures now that I've got my camera back, but I got out of the habit of posting, so we'll see if I can fix that.

Things are going well for the most part. Same old, same old. Caleb is starting croup as we speak, so that's not too good. It's going to be a long night. I hope that we can avoid the emergency room this time. Jacob is doing good, but still sleepy. I plan on taking him in for it this week--probably when I take Caleb in to get him on the steroids for croup! What a Thanksgiving we are going to have. 

So maybe, I'm not that positive on the whole sickness thing right now--I feel like I'm coming down with something too. Dizzy, extremely tired, and a constant nagging headache for three days. But we muddle on right.

On the upside, the kids were fairly well behaved in church today. Beth had fun at her first roller skating birthday party--this brought back so many memories to me. My fifth grade roller skating birthday party. Roller skating in sixth grade, Cyndi Lauper, roller skating in Orem--thanks Suzanne--and, well never mind that last one--you don't want to know it.

Caleb is doing well, other than the croup thing. He's enjoying Joyschool more, which is a plus. He loves comic books--but I'm not allowed to read them to him. He will sit and look at the drawings for hours. Spiderman is his favorite, but he just got a Hulk one from Beth's book fair.

Jacob is noisy! I'm so excited. I've caught him practicing words, and sounds over and over. He has also started coming up to me and telling me entire sentences about things (babble), but still he is trying to communicate. There is a greater sense of understanding as well. If I'm talking about something with someone else, he will come up and demonstrate through his actions or bringing me an object that he knows what I'm talking about. He is also the sweetest kid around, so many smiles, and hugs and happiness. He's a mama's boy. The other kids liked their dad more at this age, so I'm eating it up.

Toboggans (Hat) and Mittens

We bought some toboggans (as they are only known in the South), and mittens for the boys after a disastrous trip to play group. It was a cooler day--probably about 40 degrees. Not too bad, but Caleb wouldn't run around because his hands were cold. But the real disaster was that Jacob found some mud puddles, and was stomping happily in them. Unfortunately when I went to retrieve him he ran and slipped up and landed flat on his back in the middle of the puddle. He was soaked. So we left less than fifteen minutes after we got there. 

So when we went to Target later we stopped by the dollar bin spot. And the mittens were a buck a piece, and so were the hats! Score one for mom!

As a bonus, both boys love wearing them, and they will put them on themselves. Jacob too, which I think is quite an accomplishment for someone not quite two yet! I thought they were so cute in their hats and mittens, I had to take some pictures. They turned out well enough that Rob wanted to post them to Smugmug. That's saying something--he doesn't usually suggest it.

Jacob and Rob

This is happy Jacob, because he got to stay up later than his brother and sister. I just love his little smile and so I thought I would share!

The Bamb-aid Boy

Caleb had a rough week last week. He bumped his forehead, and demanded a bamb-aid (his word). I obliged even though there was no bump, blood or bruise. He wore it for more than a week. A few days later he scratched his cheek, and it really did bleed. This one demanded a bamb-aid.  So he got one. He got quite a few comments, and I got quite a few looks from strangers, but this was my little one for a few days.

I was worried about him getting those nasty band-aid lines, but fortunately it did not happen. 

Snaggletooth!

So Beth has been losing teeth left and right lately. Since this picture was taken she lost another one on the bottom. She is very proud of her missing teeth, and smiles at people so that they will notice and comment.

She had a recent experience with the tooth fairy. She woke up fairly early one morning after losing her tooth, only to discover her tooth was still there! The tooth fairy had not made it. She came in and lay sobbing on my bed. The tooth fairy was missing! 

Rob came in after his shower, and mentioned that he had heard something in Beth's room. She checked under her pillow to find $5.00. (Unbelievable I know, especially with my other post) and a note. Beth, immediately noticed that the note was on our paper cut out with our scissors. Sounds a little suspicious to a seven year old. The note explained that the tooth fairy was caught in a snow storm in Nebraska, and that she'd leave a more detailed explanation the next night.

Well the note came, and it was a heart wrenching tale of frozen wings, and a helpful little old woman. The tooth fairy confessed that she had borrowed the scissors since she was running so late, but that she wouldn't in the future. Beth was convinced that the tooth fairy had remained true to her. The note at the top is the letter. Didn't want all that fancy work to be wasted without someone else appreciating it. 

Water Bomb!

So a few weeks ago, the kids were having a rough day, but were settling down well for bed. Caleb turned to me, and asked if he could go water bombing. I asked him what that was, and he held up an empty soda bottle. And said, "See a water bomb."

I decided to let them go ahead. It involved going out on a fairly chilly night, with a soda bottle full of water and throwing it up above your head in a spin, so that the water would shoot out as it went.

The kids had a blast, until Dad stepped in with the voice of reason--shorts, bare feet, cold night, dark, wet--No more water bombs!

Just Because

This is a fun picture of Caleb being his silly self. 

This is a picture of Jacob being his sleepy self. 

A Knock on the Door at 2:00 am

This week has been an interesting one. Beth was out of school on both Monday and Tuesday. It was nice to have her home, but the weather was miserably cold and wet. Tuesday it drizzled cold rain all days, and the kids were more than a little restless. Nonetheless, we made it to the polls, and voted. It was great--I dreaded standing in line, but the early voting seemed to pay off in my area, because I didn't wait in line one minute. Not even a second. I just walked right in and voted.

Rob went to a film festival in Asheville this weekend. Greg had a film in it. Since Hickory was on his way, he took Caleb and Beth to play with their cousins. They had a lot of fun--fires, fish, and gymnastics kind of fun. Jacob stayed home with me, since he ran a fever most of the week. I think it might have been roseola, since he now has a rash that looks like roseola. But he's finally laughing and playing.

Back to Rob being gone--you all know how I am and that I freak myself out way too easily. So I locked the doors to the house, and the door to my room, and settle in to go to sleep the first night. I brought Jacob in the bed with me, since I freak myself out. He was still a bit sick and so he would wake up every so often and need to be soothed back to sleep. Well at 2:00 am I hear this sharp rapping on my bedroom door. I screamed, cause no one was home with me. Then I quickly reached over to make sure Jacob was okay, and he wasn't there. As I sat up and frantically put on my glasses, I realize that Jacob is the one standing at the door and knocking. Seriously it took me about thirty minutes to calm down and go back to sleep.

This week should be an easy one. The kids' extracurricular activities are cancelled and Beth will be home from school on Tuesday. It should be a fun week.

On Autumn

So I'm going to go off topic, and just write for a little bit. Autumn has a way of doing that to me. It is my favorite time of year. There is something about the beauty that just makes my heart ache (in a good way) as I drive down the streets or walk around. I think Autumn has always been one of my very favorite seasons, but honestly I didn't get the sheer beauty and wonder of it until I moved to North Carolina. The leaves just changed this weekend, almost overnight.

Gosh the trees are just so beautiful. This year is no exception the golds, and yellows are the brightest I've seen. And of course you have the pinks, the oranges, the orange pinks, the deep dark reds and some of the prettiest shades of brown you've ever seen. (And I'm a big fan of the color brown.) But my favorite trees are the ones that look as though they have caught on fire. They start out yellow at the bottom and move into an orange pink speckle all the way up to the top. Those trees take my breath away, and seriously I almost wreck every year as I pay more attention to the trees, then to my driving.

The first year we moved here I was teaching in this horrible school, and I hated it. And outside of my window was this big old tree (I want to say oak, but I've got no idea really.) And in the fall the leaves turned this deep reddish brown color. It was beautiful it was in this little courtyard area, and so the wind really didn't get to it, because it kept its leaves until Christmas vacation (when I quit). That tree was a gift to me, because in the moments when I was so overwhelmed by the horribleness around me, I could look out and see peace. It brought me strength through one of the most difficult times (up to that point) in my life.

So every fall I sit back and give thanks, because I know I'm not alone in this world. Heavenly Father is there, watching out for me, and painting the trees so that I can remember the brilliant colors through my winters. 

Enough waxing philosophical. I promised pictures, and yet I've not posted any. I keep meaning to take my camera out and getting a few of the leaves, but I know I won't do them justice. Rob does have pictures up, but its on a new site. Reason being we are dropping our Mac something account and switching to SmugMug, which is more economical in these troubling financial times, yada, yada, yada. I've included the link up there. And they are Rob pictures, which always turn out better than mine. I'm so blessed to have such a good photographer for a husband. Also really go check out the site. It's got Beth's ballet pictures, Caleb's sports pictures, our beach trip, our last trip to Utah, and Halloween. Notice Beth's haircut, her snaggletooth grin, and other things she keeps wanting to tell people about. Also Rob didn't take the pictures of his recent hike on the AT, but there up, and the trail was gorgeous.

I'll post updates again on Sunday--back to my regularly scheduled day.

I Got My Camera! And Happy Halloween!

Well, for Halloween we went to Trunk or Treat and then over to Greg and Heather's to see their spectacular Halloween exhibit. It was a lot of fun, and we collected my camera as well. But I still don't have pictures. Heather was kind enough to email me some Halloween pictures, but my gmail account isn't working. Check back in a day or two. Rob also has some Halloween pics on his camera, but it will awhile till he gets them up. He's busy scanning drawings and editing.

Beth was a mermaid. She wanted to be Hannah Montana, but settled on a mermaid, when I didn't quite make it to the store for a costume. I have a thing where I don't like wigs--Rob on the other hand loves them. So he should have been the one who went shopping. For Caleb's various Halloween parties he was Superman, a frog, and a dog. The dog was actually on Halloween. He didn't want to wear a costume, but I told him we would stay home without one, so he picked the dog--I think he was a dog (the same one) two years ago. Jacob was Superman twice.

We went to the trunk or treat, and ended up helping (setting up by ourselves) the tables for the Chili Cook Off. The other volunteers didn't show. But we had a few scary moments when Caleb let Jacob out of the building and we couldn't find him. Fortunately a helpful Primary child followed him around outside and didn't let him go in the road. My heart was pounding as Rob and I ran around outside in an utter panic.

The kids had a lot of fun trick or treating in a real neighborhood after we saw the stuff at Greg and Heather's. It was fun. And then Saturday they were so sugared up! But I've managed to steal and hide all of the candy, which will be dealt out as treats for completing chores, homework and other odious tasks. 

Yesterday was Cary Band Day. I was so excited to have my camera back in time for this exciting day, and then I left it at home. Oops.  Rob marched in band for one year--he says he didn't like--which he must not have since he quit. And I was in Guard (colorguard) for three years, and so the band geek in me comes shining through this time every year. We went to the parade in the morning, and then to competitions in the afternoon. We got to see the 3A class and then the kids had had enough. Unfortunately, Stake Conference coincided with the evening competition--the best bands to watch--and we came home for that. Sigh--this is the second time it has happened, and I want to go to the competition--dang it!

But I heard some stuff I needed to at Stake Conference, so I'm glad that I went, but still!

The kids are doing well. Beth's out of school for two days. I think I'm going to take all the kids to vote with me on Tuesday. I may take the camera. It should be fun. Beth wants to post some toothless pictures, plus she got a cute haircut. So come back and I'll have Halloween pictures and some other pictures too.

Have a great week.

Missing my camera!

Again, we have no pictures. Sadly the camera is still not at our house, but we will be picking it up this week. So I'll have pictures next week. Halloween pictures, and toothless Beth pictures. Maybe even some crazy brothers pictures.

This week has been pretty uneventful over all. The kids are doing well. Jacob does not seem as tired, and he is back to taking regular naps. Caleb had fun at Joyschool last week. I teach this week, so that should be good--if he likes we will stick with it a bit longer. Beth is pretty happy.

Last night Caleb and I were in the car. He noticed power lines for the first time, and asked me why the ropes were hanging there. I told him not to touch the ropes because they were power lines and they would zap him. He told me that after they zapped him, then he would run away. I told him, not to even try. He then told me to drive the car higher, so that the roof of the car would get zapped--just a little bit.  So that discussion didn't go well. Later in the same conversation Caleb told me that he used to be big. Me--Really? Caleb--Yeah mom, I used to be big,  I used to be fourteen. Me--fourteen? Caleb--yeah, but now you just call me little and three now.  

Well see ya next week.

No Pictures Again!

Well Rob got home from the hike, but I discovered that he left the camera at a friends house. He hasn't retrieved it yet, so that means no pictures. Oh well. I'll get them up next week, hopefully.

We had a fairly low key week. Nothing much happened. Beth did her Sacrament meeting program. Grandma and Pap came out for a visit. It was a nice time. We also went and ate lunch with her on Friday. Exciting stuff! Her teacher seems very nice, and we will have a parent teacher meeting soon.

Caleb had an okay week. Joyschool was cancelled on Tuesday for the third time in a row, and it was field trip on Thursday, which he had fun at. So we will see how this week goes. Hopefully it won't be negative. He also had a play date with James that went quite well.

Jacob has been sleepy all week. No fever (Mom Disclaimer --that I've noticed--I mean he may have like a 99 degree one, but nothing that I'd pull out a thermometer for), no runny nose, no upset stomach, eating fine, but he's fallen asleep at the park, during nursery, and various other random times. He's wanted to be held more, and has a tendency to melt down more quickly. Today he went to sleep at five after sleeping for more than an hour in nursery. He's still sound asleep. I wonder if he will get up really early tomorrow? Eek!

Rob has been a little stressed. He's trying to get his project done, and he took all week to recover from the hike. He hurt his knee, and has been limping around all week. A little more sporadically towards the end. I think it was getting better, then he'd overdo, and twist it again, and then limping--you know the drill. I just asked --is your knee getting better. His response--yeah, uh it still hurts, but . . .

I had an interesting week this last week. I've managed to land two new writing jobs--I'm absolutely crazy for taking them on. Truly, but it should help us out financially. I also attended an online writer's conference which was simply amazingly awesome. Two of the workshops helped so much, and the rest gave me lots of important information. So yea! It was a lot of fun, but now I'm going to start really getting down to business and finishing my novel.  I want it done by the end of November (first draft)

Have a great week!

Wow! A Whole Month.

I can't believe it is has been a whole month since I posted. Things have been super busy. I guess we can catch up as we go. Also I was going to post pictures, but Rob has the camera, so check in next week for all the pictures I've taken, but not posted yet.

We'll start with Beth. She is loving school. She enjoys reading on her own now---not chapter books yet, but that will come. Additionally she is just having fun at school. Beth loves the ballet class. She really loves it, and the teacher is very nice. She lost a front top tooth. And was visited by the tooth fairy. She wonders why some friends get a lot more money (like $10.00 to the five she got last time (I think five is too much, but I don't negotiate with the tooth fairy)). This new development needs to be addressed. She also has a list of people who know about her tooth, and those who don't. She keeps wanting to write Jane a letter about it.

Caleb is having fun. He liked basketball, but now is doing soccer. He loves that. (The classes are three weeks long and very laid back). Joyschool isn't going so well. I'm worried about finding the right balance for him. He gets bored, when we don't have a lot of structured activities, but he hates going to Joyschool--tears every day no matter if it is here or not. I don't know what to do. 

Jacob is a lot more vocal now. He is super sweet and gives the best hugs. He will talk and sign to let me know what he wants. He is also getting tough. He can push Caleb around to get him to go where he wants him to. (I don't think Caleb is fighting back very hard--he's a good big brother.) He still loves to sit and read books.

I've had a great month. Rob took all the kids a few weekends ago, and I had the weekend to myself. It was heavenly. I got a lot of work done, plus I spent a lot of time reading. Then I went to Utah to Suzanne's wedding. I took Jacob, and it was great to see Amanda and all of my family. I also went to my first writer's group meeting, which went well. I am really excited about the book I am working on. I've got a writing workshop coming up this week.

Rob is away on a hike. Every year he and some friends go and do about twenty miles on the Applachian Trail. That is so not my thing. He's headed back after three days, but his return has been slowed by a quick trip to the emergency room. (Don't worry, not for him--but he's still stuck there.) The person, who shall remain nameless, should be fine after being seen. 

On a side note I took all three kids to church today and find out that the Primary program is next week. See we haven't been at church exactly. The last time the whole family went was the first weekend in September. The second week Rob helped a nonmember friend move--and Beth ended up with a stomach bug so we didn't go. The third week the kids were in Hickory with Rob, and I went by myself. The fourth week Jacob and I went in Utah, and Rob and Beth and Caleb went in Hickory. Last week was General Conference. This leaves us at the point with a surprise Sacrament Meeting program which Beth hasn't practiced for. Oh well.

See ya next week!

Jacob Used the Potty!

Lately Jacob has shown an interest in sitting on the toilet. Sometimes it's the real one, and sometimes it is the training ones. So not wanting to discourage any positive association he was with aforesaid pottys, I have been letting him sit there for a few minutes any time he asks.

Well today, he was quite insistent, and so I got him up there and 30 seconds later, he had done his little tinkle. Hooray! Hooray! This is a big first step. Not that I'm going to go full out training him right now. I don't think I'm ready for that. He might train early though--Beth was trained by his age. We couldn't get any interest from Caleb until he was over two!

Just Because

So I finally got over my fear of the camera and the computer working together. You'll want to read down the next several posts because I've updated with lots and lots and lots of pictures and stories. 

Disclaimer: A photographer I'm not. That's Rob's job, but this is my blog with my pictures so don't complain! If you want the great pictures hit his blog. Also Rob just told me my lens was dirty, that's why my pictures look dingy. I didn't even think about it. See--I'm So Not a photographer--I just thought my camera was old.

This week has been a good one. We're getting into the schedule with school, Joyschool, and at home speech therapy. An activity for each of my little ones. This week we add on dance for Beth and a sports class for Caleb. I don't know if I can handle all the running around! Yikes! I'll let you know how it goes.

First Day of Joyschool

Caleb started Joyschool (Preschool) this year. 

This is taken his first day. He didn't want the picture taken.

Labor Day Hike

We are extremely lucky to live close to several great hiking places. For Labor Day we decided to go on a hike. It was a success. Nobody whined, and the only person who got carried was Jacob. Of course it was only half a mile!

Rob got some hiking poles for his next overnight hike.

Of course the kids had to try them out.

Here's a picture of the family going along.

Daddy carrying Jacob. 

He loved riding on his shoulders.

Beth on the hike.

Jacob insisted he have a turn with the poles as well.

Originally Rob just handed them to him, 

but he had been observant, 

and he knew that he had to put his hands through the straps. 

Rob was impressed that he knew what to do.

We went partly to help Rob get used to walking with the poles. He commented that he looked like a tool. I didn't think he looked that bad, except for the fact, that he was hiking along while I kept track of three kids who were running around, and I was carrying the bag. And he was concentrating on the poles. That part is why everyone was staring at us.

The next day Caleb wanted to go hiking. In fact he has asked to go every day since. He also has begun to carry the maps around with him. He has quite a collection of maps. He adores maps. He loves to fold and unfold them. He points out where we are going to hike on the hiking maps and he points out the treasure on the pirate maps. If you want to make his whole day, send him a map!

My Musicians

Strangely enough, this is the first time that my kids have pulled out pots and pans and started playing me a song. They've pulled out the pots and pans before, but it was never accompanied with the cacophony of rhythm that normally makes them so interesting.

A Rainy Day!

One day it started pouring rain down. So I had to go out and move the car--long boring explanation as to why--which I am skipping. But as I was headed back in the boys went out and started splashing in the puddles. Well I hauled them in after a few minutes, but I decided it was worth the time to get a few pictures.

Well Caleb decided he wasn't quite done, and he went running back out again. Jacob wanted to follow as well, but it started to thunder, so I had to bring the boys back in.

First Day of School

Beth was super excited to go back to school, and of course I got a picture before she left. This year got off to a good start. She got the teacher she wanted all summer long. She's super happy about it. Now that we are two weeks in she wants more recess and less school work. Homework starts in another week. It's every day! Yikes. I don't know how I feel about that in first grade.

The boys wanted pictures as well. So I thought I'd share them too.

Sunday Best

We got ready early for church one day a few weeks ago. I wanted to get a picture of Jacob in his suit and vest. I think it is adorable, and loved it when Caleb would wear it too. Jacob's finally big enough. Of course the other kids wanted to pose as well.

Jacob and Caleb. 

Caleb's orange crocs are a signature accessory for church.

A solo picture of the suit!

Uk,Uk Boost!

Today we had a wonderful family home evening lesson. We ended it with a few games, ring around the rosie, and Duck, Duck Goose. Jacob was enthralled by the games, and kept on wanting to play. When it was Caleb's turn to play he would go around, Duck, Duck, Duck, Boost! And run screaming hysterically. I was getting the biggest kick out of it.

Then Jacob was chosen. He got the walking around the circle and hitting people thing. But even better he was saying uk, uk, uk, uk, uk for several trips. He never did say goose, and continued to go around the circle even when we let someone else go. I was so happy that he said anything--since getting him to speak is one of our biggest goals.

Anyway--we have a new game at our house--"UK, UK, Boost!" You can join us anytime!

Brrring, Brrring, Brrrring

Funny moment today: Caleb's been overtired, and I think he needs a nap. So we make a deal. If he lies down until the timer goes off, then he gets a treat. (This is in hopes that he will fall asleep during that time.) 

Originally I had the timer by me, so I could hear it, and he wouldn't touch it. But then he says he needs to hear it too. So I move it to his room. It is quiet for approximately 30 seconds. I begin to think this is working, then . . . 

Brrring, Brrring, Brrring comes out of his room. He has decided to imitate the sound of the timer, since it is taking too long.

Now he's climbing on me, begging for the prize that will not come unless he lies down.

Easy Peasy

This last week was fairly nice. Caleb and Beth spent some time at Grandma's this week. They loved it. Caleb wants us to move closer. Beth does too. But I know we'll most likely be here at least another year. 

Beth has her meet the teacher this week. We don't know who her teacher will be, but she definitely knows who she wants. I'm excited to see who will be in her class this year. She made some good friends last year, but she has some church friends as well. I just want her to have another great year.

We have our meeting for Joyschool this week. I'm super excited for Caleb. It should be a good year for him. I know he'll love meeting each week. Kids this age are so much fun. Caleb is constantly telling me about what he "did last night" always some type of story--maybe a dream, but it always starts "Last night I  . . ." 

Jacob is feeling a bit under the weather, but we'll take him in tomorrow and see. It's either his ears or the fact that he is teething. He is pretty happy otherwise. I think it's ears, 'cause he's not been sleeping, which means I haven't been sleeping. He was so excited to have Beth and Caleb back home. I think he enjoyed the extra attention though.

So I have a post written, and waiting to publish. I planned to include pictures, only to find out that I don't have the software I need to size them correctly. Rob is supposed to work on this for me. He's busy and the olympics are going on, so we will see when it happens.

Today Elisabeth asked me when school started, and has started a countdown. I am going to take that as a good thing. I always looked forward to school, so I'm glad that she is too. She wants to stay up late to watch the Olympics, and I've been letting her, but right now she isn't watching. So she might have to go to bed!

Caleb is still having fun and being crazy. He is always asking to go outside and do something. He has lots of busy energy that he needs to work off. He's going to start Joyschool this year. I think he is really excited. I hope so. We've got a fairly small group, but that will be okay.

Jacob is still his happy self. He is really making progress with his speech therapy. He said bubbles today. (A word we have been working on.) He is more vocal, and you can see him trying to form letters with his mouth. He is getting evaluated by the early intervention team tomorrow. So we'll see how that goes.

Rob is back to working five days a week again. This might mean that he is in a better mood in the evenings, but we'll miss him on Fridays. I'm doing all right so far this week.

Getting Over the Awful Week

A little news first. I had a miserable week, a week ago. I ended up losing one of my blogging jobs. One of my good friends moved away (Of course I'm happy for them). And I had yet another medical scare all in a week. Things are resolving themselves. I ended up with an infection instead of a tumor. I'm looking at the lay off as a good chance for me to grow and do the things I want to.

The kids are doing pretty well. Although bedtime is miserable for everyone. They are still not asleep. And it just keeps getting later and later. Although they do get up by about 8:00 every day. So I don't get it. They are super cranky some days. It must be the Ghost Hunters that Rob is letting them watch.

We are trying to keep their room much cleaner. I wanted to show you the before and after pictures, assuming that we cleaned it in one day. But we were almost finished, and then I went to make dinner, and it got worse again. Finally, three days later, it really got cleaned up. Here is the after picture.

Jacob is on a little kick on choosing his own clothes. He likes to step into whatever he ends up giving me. So he will wear a lot of shirts as skirts. Here is a picture:  Sometimes he wears layers and layers. It really is cute.

On a side note: I went to the Breaking Dawn release party. It was fun, but honestly my group was probably the oldest one there. We had t-shirts and everything. Kind of silly. It was fun, like I was back in high school, just for the fun part of it--or maybe college, since I like college better. Here's some pics of it.  And yes I finished the book. And man, I didn't know what to think. Still don't. I'll get back to ya on my opinion of it. Some of it really bothered me and still does, some of it really bothered me and doesn't anymore, and a few things I liked. I could wish for a bit more action though.