Juli, Ken and then some

Because I love you

2010-07-27T21:06:00.000-05:00

Luci: You always copy me!
Daniel: That's because I love you, Luci.

What am I going to do with this one?

2010-07-24T23:25:00.000-05:00

This morning I woke to Daniel next to me saying, "Mommy, I Don't Like my Lunchbox!" I said ok and rolled over. In the mean time, Daniel grabbed his lunchbox, exited the house and set it at the end of the driveway. When I realized this, I told him to go get it. He did, but when he came into the house he didn't have it. I asked where it was. He said, "I threw it over the fence." You see our neighbors have a fence around their house and Daniel threw it over there. Another attempt to get rid of it. I have to say I couldn't help but crack a smile at that one. I know that is not helpful, but we did march outside and I hoisted him over the fence to go get it. So what am I going to do with him?

This is all being brought on by seeing the new school supplies. He has an adorable monkey lunchbag that he has only used 3 times this past year. Now he wants some sort of super hero. What to do, what to do?

2010-07-24T22:25:00.005-05:00

We went to a festival today. The kids had a lot of fun.

They rode horses and turtles and saw reptiles. It turns out Luci is just afraid of petting ponies. She rides them just fine. But she was very scared to ride the turtle at first. Later she did.

Daniel would not ride the horses. But he had fun on the playground. They have a sprinkler at that park.

They had their hands painted and a clown made balloon shapes. Everyone also got free tshirts.

Daniel won a bike! Of course this was the best part for me. I love free stuff.

The second best part for me was when I realized they gave Daniel an adult size t-shirt that fits me! When I asked Daniel what his high of the day was, I was expecting it would be when he won the bike too. But, he said it was when his friend Michael got him a green snake balloon to replace the one that had popped. Michael was really sweet to Daniel and it was very much appreciated. We really had a great time at this fun little festival.

Wishes do come true

2010-07-23T23:23:00.004-05:00

Luci's birthday was today. Ken asked her what she wished for when she blew out the candles. She said she wished for the same thing every year and every year it comes true. So he asked her what it was. She said she couldn't tell. So he asked what she wished for last year since it already came true. She said, "I always wish I have the best birthday ever and it always comes true!"

Earlier in the day she commented that this was going to be the best birthday because she got to go to the dentist! And rattled off something like, "The 1st best thing is the dentist, the second best thing is the pool, the third best thing is ChuckeCheeese." We went to the dentist first thing this morning and spent as much as ChuckeCheese. Do you think I could of just cancelled ChuckE and she would have been just as happy?

Just for the record, Luci started off wanting a princess horse birthday in the back yard. But you know the way I do birthdays. I investigated pony rides at a local ranch. They were very reasonable and so I went to sign up and had big plans for the theme. While we were there a girl asked Luci annd Grace if they wanted to pet the horse. Luci hid behind my back. So I scratched the ranch and we went for ChuckECheese. I did have a horse gift bag and princess balloons so it was a chuck e, princess, horse birthday. Phyloe, Bryana, Imani, Nya, Daniel and Grace attended. They had fun. (Forgot my camera though, so this is the only picture of the day.)I had decided to keep it fairly small and just invite girls who were Luci's age as a lot of her friends tend to be Grace's friends, but with the switch of plans, invites didn't get out with much warning. According to Luci, she had the best birthday ever, so I guess it was at no loss.)

We also took her out to Chili's as a family. They did the sing and clap with an awesome brownie ala mode. I had a great time celebrating 6 years of Luci.

2009-12-27T19:20:00.005-06:00

Ken was asking Daniel about his favorites tonight.

Favorite color, blue and green
Favorite animal, dinosaur
Favorite sport, basketball, and next favorite football
I thought I'd get a little ornery and throw in this question. Who's your favorite aunt, Daniel? He replied, "A Grasshopper!" Get it, aunt--ant which must translate to bug for him.

2009-12-27T19:17:00.002-06:00

Grace has been talking about going to the sand bar that Ken's cousin, Zac, and I swam to for shells last year right near the condo in Alabama. I keep telling her she will probably be able to go when she is older and a better swimmer. She has been very upset about this. Finally yesterday when I asked why she wanted to go so badly, she answered, "because I want to get something to eat there too!" She thought it was a bar/restaurant!

Manicures!

2009-12-27T07:21:00.002-06:00

Took the girls for a manicure yesterday. Not their first, but their first professional one. They enjoyed it. Grace wasn't so happy about the wait for others to get done. Luci loved paying for it from her own new purse. She was sad though when I told her she had to give the lady 3 extra dollars of the change for a tip. Their nails turned out great though. They have very different, but very good taste in style.

br/>Click here to view photos

2009.12 Beach selection (17 photos), by juli mahorney

2009-12-24T20:21:00.002-06:00

We are spending Christmas in Alabama again. We are in a condo visiting Ken's gradparents for the 4th or 5th time in the past 6 years. The first day the kids went to the beach they loved it. I thought we were just going out for a couple pictures and I couldn't tear them away from it. Grace especially loves getting her feet wet and digging into the sand. Luci enjoys looking for shells. Daniel is still a little timid, but enjoys anyway. We're having lots of fun.

There aren't many people here at this time. The snowbirds start coming next week. So there weren't too many people to be embarrassed in front of. As you can see Grace and Luci are in basically summer clothes and it was only about 63 at best on the beach when I took these pictures. They are either crazy Chicago kids, or have the Kresl gene firmly planted in them (I remember heading to Florida doing the same thing one spring break at about the same age and every other time we vacationed near an ocean when the weather was cold by most standards. Of course then there is also their father's solo polar dive into a pool covered with a thin layer of ice in Wisconsin on New Year's)

We are also enjoying a wonderful indoor pool. The kids are at a great age for the pool. Daniel wears a floating device, but the girls can swim well in the 3 and 4 foot. We played a game where Grace and Luci raced against me to get rings from the pool. Daniel threw the rings while we closed our eyes. I kept telling him to put them closer to me (I gave the girls a head start). The last time we played we asked Daniel several times it he had thrown all the rings yet. He kept saying he had one more. What he was doing was swimming closer to me. When I finally turned around and asked what he was doing, he said, "I'm getting this one right next to you mommy." What a sweet boy.

The food is great so far. I'm gaining a pound or two a day I'm sure. Today I finally decided to burn it off at the gym. Ken joined me. We played racketball. Guess who won. And the company is divine with David, Delores, Susan and Corrine. Here are some beach pictures...

Click here to view photos

2009-12-24T20:03:00.000-06:00

http://www2.snapfish.com/slideshow/AlbumID=3075403009/PictureID=131848991009/a=30963517_30963517/otsc=SHR/otsi=SPIClink/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/

Here are the kids on the beach. Just seeing if this works.

Love is...

2009-11-23T23:56:00.002-06:00

your husband being sent to the store for "white" paint and refusing ivory, even though the paint guy is really not supposed to make white.

In case you forgot what they look like...

2009-10-31T07:22:00.005-05:00

It's been a while. We've had computer and then camera and then computer and then camera problems. We lost the camera with vacation and 4th pictures :-(

But now we're back in the game, and what better time to get back in it than Halloween? This year no one could agree on a theme. Grace was not excited about a homemade outfit. She fell in love with several dresses on an after church excursion we had. I spent more than I wanted, but the outfit was complete once we left the store because we had all princess accessories at home.

Luci and Daniel still let me entertain my excitement of the homemade costume. They both wanted to be pumpkins. I was kinda' bummed at the lack of originality, but excited that they would probably be easy to do. I spent under $5 for each, had fun making them and most important-Luci and Daniel liked them. Ken's grandma designed the pumpkin tops. They looked great! No awards at the costume contest, but I saw one of the judges write down Luci's number.

Tongs=White Sox ticket holders

2009-08-09T13:14:00.002-05:00

Ken had a very good opportunity to win White Sox tickets last night in a raffle. It's crazy cousin weekend here so Tim is here and they decided to go together to the raffle. When Grace found out the prize was White Sox tickets, she pleaded with Ken not to touch them. To protect him even more, she ran into the kitchen and grabbed some tongs and gave them to him saying, "Here Dad, if you win, use these to pick them up!"

Luckily, since Tim went with and the tickets were going to Tim, the tickets were just handed directly to Tim. Tragedy averted.

If I were a princess...

2009-07-31T21:13:00.002-05:00

We read the book and I asked the kids what they would do if they were a princess. Luci said wear a pretty dress that was pink, Grace said feed her people (from the Prince and the Pauper Barbie movie). I asked Daniel what he would do if he were a prince. He said marry Luci. What a thrill that gave her. I asked if he would marry Grace too and he said yes, followed by sweet hugs to both of his princesses and the Queen.

ooops

2009-06-28T22:03:00.002-05:00

I forgot to add the Navy Pier fountain pictures...

Daniel's Birthday

2009-06-28T12:13:00.012-05:00

We had a great time in the city for Daniel's birthday. I had no time to plan a party so we had a transportation "theme" and brought it to Chicago. We started by CAR to the train station, TRAIN to the city, TROLLEY to Navy Pier, and finally BOAT (water taxi) back to the train station. We were supposed to ride the Ferris Wheel as well, but it was shut down, which was fine with me because does that really count as transportation? We replaced it with a ride on Thomas the Train and saved $24--continuing to make Dad proud (on that note I opted for the water taxi, $2-3/person as opposed to a Navy Pier speed boat trip, $15-20/person).

On our walk to the trolley we checked out the Wrigley building and others in the area. They liked touching the artifacts built into the side of the Wrigley building too, but then we had to make a rule not to touch the other buildings. It was slowing us down as we walked along Michigan Avenue. We also played in the fountains. Although the Taste was going on, we only ran into a crowd on the trolley, having to forego the first one and only Daniel and Luci had seats on the one we rode. The kids really enjoyed the water fountain that "plays" with the kids by shooting water up out of the ground randomly. They had an ice cream cone in the shade and we stopped for Giordano's Pizza before heading back home. Yesterday, Daniel said his favorite part was the boat. Today it was Thomas the Train. When you ask him about what he did for his birthday he starts counting on his fingers, "We went on a train and a boat and a trolley..." We all had a great time celebrating the 3-year-old.
Riding the train to Chicago. Luci kept the others occupied with a song and hand motions.

Michigan Avenue and outside The Wrigley Building.

The Trolley

Navy Pier

The Boat.

Pizza!

Lots of fun and silliness on the train ride home.

He was wide awake the whole trip, but couldn't make it 5 minutes back to the house! Awww.

For the rest of my life...

2009-06-23T07:38:00.002-05:00

"Mommy, I'm going to tell you what I'm going to do for the rest of my life. I'm going to do whatever you say for the rest of my life! And you will only have to tell me one time."

Luci
June 23, 2009 7:38 am

I have so many other things that I should be doing, but this I had to record before I forgot.

The Best Ride

2009-05-21T15:27:00.002-05:00

Grace woke up with pink eye. Luci had it first, passed it on to Daniel, now on to Grace. I of course was saying when Luci got it to a friend that we usually don't pass it around the family. Oh well.

Anyway, thanks to a wonderful neighbor, Grace and I were able to go for a bike ride together down my favorite path this morning. We made it all the way to the 2nd bridge which is about a mile and a half from our home. Grace likes to stop and explore along the way. I had so much fun. Hopefully there will be more.

Book Bee

2009-05-19T08:43:00.008-05:00

A book bee is like a spelling bee except the students read books and answer questions instead of spelling words. They recieved a list of 10 books to study before the bee. Grace was excited to be involved in her school's book bee. For each question they answered correctly they received a book buck so they could go pick out books and prizes.

I might be prejudice but I'm pretty sure Grace did the best at the book bee. She knew almost every answer without prompts. She also used her book bucks to pick out a book and a prize for Luci and Daniel and then some for herself.

Also in one picture you can see the Great Mrs. Primozic. Grace thinks she is the greatest teacher, but she just wishes she wasn't a Sox fan. Luci has already stated she will not go to Mrs. Primozic's class solely on that reasoning. But really, Mrs. Primozic is a great, caring and talented teacher who is focused on teaching and learning. She is doing a great job with Grace.

Home Opener

2009-05-19T08:21:00.003-05:00

Ken and I made it to the Cub's Home Opener this year. It was a miserable day. Cold and wet. I thought dressing for the wet would help with the cold, but my Bear's game gear would have been more appropriate. The whole time I was thinking, "This will not be worth it if they don't win." But the Cubbies came through with Lilly almost pitching a perfect game. Being able to sing, "Go Cubs Go" with all of Wrigley and seeing the "W" fly was well worth it.

Glenwood Easter Egg Hunt

2009-05-19T07:25:00.007-05:00

We took the kids to Glenwood's Easter Egg Hunt this year. They had great fun. The kids and I practiced in the yard before we went. We take egg hunting competition seriously! I especially like the picture where it looks like Luci is going to run over the kids to move on to the next egg. The Senior Center had hot chocolate and cookies when the hunt was over.

The kids participated in Dwight's Easter Egg Hunt as well. Daniel did the best of the Kresl Grandkids ever in the toddler division (I'm sure due to the expert egg hunt coaching he recieved the week before.) Unfortunatly, my camera was broken for the hunt so no pictures.

Easter Egg "Hunt"

2009-05-19T07:03:00.002-05:00

Aunt Lori is so generous with her time that she stuffed over 200 eggs this year for the 9 great nieces and nephews that came to Great-Grandmas for Easter. They were full of candy, toys and coins. The kids loved it. Hunt is rightfully put in quotes in the title of this post because unless you have acres of land, 200 eggs can only be "gathered." :-)

Easter

2009-05-19T06:50:00.005-05:00

Grandma Brenda sends money for Easter outfits every year for the kids. Here they are showing off their choices.

Here Grace, go make your Dad eat this!

2009-05-18T07:30:00.003-05:00

Who and under what circumstances was this phase said to Grace?

A. one of the boys sharing broccoli at dinner because they know how hard Ken is trying to be healthy

B. one of our co-workers at a party sharing cake in Ken's honor because they have always known, but finally publicly recognized his great work with the kids

C. Grace's friend because she found a worm in the garden and wanted to see Ken actually eat it instead of just putting it on his tongue and bragging that he eats worms

D. none of the above (in which case you should add your own scenario)

Lexi at First Communion

2009-05-08T23:52:00.003-05:00

Alexis has been begging Jane since she can remember to get the snack everyone else gets at church. Dad even told Jane to bring a chip or cracker for Alexis so she won't get so upset! Finally the big day came last Saturday when Alexis got to join the ranks of the snack takers! She performed her first communion with dignity and conviction. She made a very deliberate bow, steps forward to take the host, side step to the right and a perfectly executed sign of the cross. Despite the swine flu going around, she was able to take wine as well. Congratulations Alexis!

Random pictures

2009-05-08T15:35:00.005-05:00

Our neighbors are leaving to start a life as missionaries in Nigeria, Africa. We are making a picture book of all the kids on campus. Here's what the kids do when asked to pose... Luci and Daniel get excited and Luci wanted to hold a watermelon and sit by the flowers like she did for her 3 year old birthday thank you notes. Grace went to put on a special outfit and also headed out to the "flowers" that aren't blooming yet.

Random pictures

2009-05-08T15:31:00.002-05:00

I love my ball, my bouncy ball...

2009-01-14T10:03:00.003-06:00

If you know the song in the title then you are a big fan of Dora. Boots loses his ball and has to find it along with Dora in one episode. The ball bounces out of control.

This episode has inspired what is currently an hour of creative play for Daniel and Luci. They are chasing their bouncy balls around the cottage. Luci gave one to Ken and me. Daniel's got stuck on the ceiling and they came to ask Ken for help. He was able to jump up and get it. Did I mention to the adult eye these balls are invisible?

This is the best game for a little girl who doesn't like to clean her room!

2009-01-13T22:33:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple pictures to help Grandma Brenda's withdrawl...

A random observation

2009-01-05T14:42:00.002-06:00

"Mom, the proper way to get buggers out of your nose is to get a kleenex and wipe it all around until you clean it up."

Luci, January 5, 2009

Santa Picture

2008-12-25T21:11:00.001-06:00

2008-12-22T00:06:00.001-06:00

Just in case the Christmas Cards don't get sent out, here are two of the pictures you might have gotten...

I love to hear myself talk

2008-12-21T23:30:00.002-06:00

Luci, "Did you know there is a sense, every sense? I am having a sense of hearing myself right now!" If you saw the way she pointed to her ear and the expression of delight on her face when she said it you would think it as great as I.

A distraction

2008-12-21T23:29:00.001-06:00

Grace, "Mommy, I need to get up here to use this mirror so I can see the tangles and get them out."

"Just go use your mirror in your room."

Yes, but if I use the full mirror I can see my whole body and that might interrupt me.

(This was actually said this summer)

If you can't beat them, join them

2008-12-21T23:15:00.005-06:00

An early Christmas gift for the kids was very cute Christmas aprons and some cookie recipes to go with it. Tonight while Daniel was mixing and I turned my head, this is what happened...

"Mommy yook, Grace!" [Grace dips her finger in the bowl]

"Mommy yook, Yuci!" [Luci dips her finger in the bowl]

Daniel deciding, "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em"

Here are some other cookie baking pics...

Jesus, God and Fairies

2008-12-20T22:48:00.003-06:00

Today I was explaining to Grace that accoding to the scientists, winter won't start until tomorrow. Of course she realized the irony of all the ice and snow on the ground and stated, "The scientists don't get to decide when winter starts." So I asked who did. She stated, "Jesus, God and fairies."

Here comes Santa Clause

2008-12-20T07:40:00.004-06:00

Ken was Santa at the Glenwood Christmas dinner Thursday night. He was great. I've already heard our boss rave 2 times about how great he was. He sounded just like Santa when he entered with a Ho Ho Ho, Merry Christmas! The kids were all excited. The five and under crowd believed it was the real Santa, until their older brothers and sisters told them it wasn't. Grace figured it out, but Luci still believes it was the real Santa. She asked, "How did he know our names?"

She told me she was disappointed this morning that Santa didn't give her the gift she asked him for last week. I explained he was just making an appearance and reassured her that she would get her requested gift when he visits the house on Christmas Eve. Ken said he could tell she believed he was the real Santa by the look on her face when he came around to visit them. The horrible tragedy about the whole thing is I was so worried about how Daniel was going to make it though the formal Christmas Dinner and program without incident (which he didn't make it 30 seconds before I called Aunt Susie to come and get him)that I forgot my camera!!!! I'm hoping to get pictures from others, but also being in charge of 12 boys along with the 2 girls by myself (since Ken was otherwise occupied) I didn't get a picture of the girls with Santa. So bummed about that.

We're having a hard time deciding how to talk about this event in our house. Ken wants to talk to Grace all about it and hear how great it was that Santa choose her daddy to sit in for him (this works because Ken frequently calls Santa to "tell" on Luci for not cleaning her room), but Luci thinks he was real. Grace still believes in Santa so if we tell her to talk about him like he was real to Luci, I think she will get even more of a clue about Santa not being real. She already suspects the tooth fairy is not. She said the note the tooth fairy left her after the first tooth loss sounded a lot like what I would write. And the last time Grace lost a tooth, the tooth fairy didn't come for 2 days. Luckily Grace's neighbor lost a tooth at the same time and the tooth fairy wasn't able to make it for a couple days either. We decided she was probably sick. Guess what, as I'm writing this I just remembered the tooth fairy didn't come this morning either! Maybe it was because Grace camped out in the living room instead of her bed. How long do I have to be responsible for these charades? I think it is not my parenting forte!

But finally I wish you all could have been at the dinner. Ken did such an awesome job. He even said he enjoyed it. More so if the suit wasn't so hot and if his glasses wouldn't have kept fogging up. He said Santa is such a powerful figure. Even students (and some adults) that he is sure don't care for him as a house parent/teacher came up to give him a hug and say hello. He said it was a magical feeling (well he didn't say magical feeling but I bet it was). Way to go honey. You helped make the point that Santa is not just about commercialized gift giving for the little ones, but a figure that brings authentic joy and happiness to the holiday season!

2008-10-17T11:21:00.002-05:00

Luci, holding a marigold, "Mom, you have GOT to smell this"
Me, "MMMMM smells good, do you like it?" (Not sure because sometimes I don't like the smell of marigolds).
Luci, "I LOVE IT!"

She takes time to smell the flowers. So sweet.

Hey, Macarena

2008-10-10T16:59:00.003-05:00

Tuesday night Ken and Grace had a date. Daddy-Daughter Dance. They dressed the theme...Hawaiian and were on their way. They danced songs like Let Me See You Shake Your Tail Feather, and the song that you "stomp one time, etc". Ken taught her the Macarena. She is showing off one of her new Macarena moves in the photo above...

So considerate

2008-10-02T23:48:00.003-05:00

Grace, Luci and friends were crafting on their bedroom floor earlier today. Everyone was told to clean up, but Luci was not partaking. So I told everyone she would have to do it by herself. But alas, all the playing wore Luci out and she wasn't able to finish. She chose bedtime instead.

So the exciting news of the day was Grace lost her 2nd tooth!!! But she came to me with this dilemma...

"Mom, Luci didn't finish cleaning up and the Tooth Fairy is coming. We don't want her to trip and stub her toe on the mess! Will you help me clean up?"

So I did, and so I'm set back further in the fight to get Luci to take responsibility and clean up in order to do the mom duty of saving another fictional character's cover. And, cleaning up which I HATE!

Grace was also considerate because she asked her friends today if they wanted to help her figure out where to place her tooth for the tooth fairy. Upon small discussion they decided on a place. Before bed I asked Grace where her tooth was (for an efficient exchange later that night). She showed me and said, "I put it here so the Tooth Fairy could get it easy and not wake me up."

So considerate she is.

I play my drum for you...

2008-09-26T09:18:00.002-05:00

Daniel: watching Dora and the drum parade.

Luci: Comes in and sees Dora and the drum parade. Says, "Oh man, I forgot my drum!"

Daniel: Runs to the television "grabs" a drum and brings it to his sister in need.

Luci: Says thank you and starts drumming her pretend drum.

Kudos to Ken!

2008-09-25T21:31:00.002-05:00

A video team was on campus taping the boys and girls and various aspects of campus life. The program manager overseeing much of the project reported the students overwhelmingly picked Ken's science class as their favorite in the school.

Kudos Ken!

One of the worst days...

2008-09-25T21:22:00.002-05:00

One of the worst days of a mother's life is when her 2 year old is dry heaving and there is nothing she can do about it. Especailly after he already threw up 4 times in one night. :-(

Tagged

2008-09-18T21:59:00.002-05:00

Do I dare reveal my quirks? I have been tagged by OCH so I guess I will be breaking blog law if I don't?

1. My first I didn't realize was a quirk. Thought it was just thoughtful bed time routine, but since the Mrs. brought it up I guess I should reveal that I too have 3 pillows set in a specific place on the bed. If Ken touches them before bed, he knows he's in trouble. He is allowed to borrow after I have left for exercise in the mornings. And the pillow closest to my head has to be the silkiest one. I also work hard to find the best thread count I can and have the most comfortable comforter that I got for 70% off.

2. I always set the tv volume to an even number! I have no idea where this came from. On occasion I think it's ok at higher volumes to set it on a multiple of 5.

3. I can't stand it when there are no numbers on the volume of a television. And when Ken turns it up or down to an odd number, I bite my lip! This is the first time I have ever let this out to Anyone! Feels good, I think.

4. I don't like seeing movies. It's not that I don't like movies so much, I just don't like wasting my time at a bad one. I also have a hard time sitting straight up for so long. I like to stretch out on a couch. So I would rather just skip them altogether. If it weren't for popcorn with extra butter, I would.

5. I think I have the best mom and dad ever! (Is that quirky or does everyone think that?)

6. I don't do it anymore, but when I lived on Waupansie, I remember riding or driving down Washington and ever so slightly ducking my head when I went under the electrical wires or trees. I don't know where it came from but I used to do it quite a bit. Weird.

Maybe this is more than I need to let out, but come on. You know you have some quirky behaviors too. Don't judge.

A distraction

2008-09-16T07:54:00.004-05:00

Picture problem

2008-08-28T22:28:00.003-05:00

I'm having trouble manipulating pictures but I think you can tell what pictures go with what part of the next story.

Whoa is me.

2008-08-27T08:19:00.007-05:00

6:00--Grace is up and adam, a full 2 hours before the bus arrives. As Ken exclaimed tearfully, "It took her less than 3 minutes to get ready!"
6:05--Grace proclaims she's ready to go get on the bus.
6:55--Ken is off to school with the boys, I'm cleaning up tear filled tissue scattered around the computer.
7:00-7:55--Grace is sitting in front of the television, every now and then exclaiming that she wants to go to the bus now.
7:30--I start simmering "Superman" soup (tomato) because that is what she likes for lunch. Her lunch consisted of soup, croutons, bread with butter (on her father's insistance because she really didn't want it) pineapple and pistacios. (as I'm writing this I remember that I forgot to tell her to put the shells in the bag with her napkin and spoon. I'm hoping she doesn't make a big mess and I'm doubly hoping she doesn't spill the soup.)
7:56--I remember that we didn't do her homework. We quickly pull out the newspaper and Grace cuts out a bottle of apple juice and some cute bags from Kohl's. They are red. We put them in the envelope and in the backpack.
8:03--We head up front to wait for the bus. I imagine us on the couch, but Grace runs outside and sits on a chair.
8:10--Grace sees 2 buses at the stop light. She exclaims, "The bus is here." I say lots of buses go through that light so we have to wait for a bus to come on campus.
8:11--A bus comes on campus. I not so quietly hope it is the one picking up the High School Bloom students, 40 minutes early.
8:12--The bus comes around the corner clearly headed for our house. The twins come jumping out of their house and with Grace they shout together, "The bus is coming! The bus is coming."
8:12:30--Grace starts to run for the bus. I have to call her back for a hug.
8:12:32--She runs back to the bus and gets on, completely comfortable finding a seat on her own. The twins follow and they all sit together. Mrs. Warner takes a picture and Grace calls out to her, "Tell my mom I said Good-bye!"
8:13--The bus pulls off. The twins' grandmother looks at me and says, "No tears?!" I reply, "Oh there's gonna' be tears." And I can't hold off any longer. All the while I wonder why a Nationally Board Certified teacher is letting her child go to school when I could do a great job teaching her at home. But her excitement this morning is the main reason. She really thrives being with other kids and loves making new friends. It's just ironic that the 10 years I taught I often thought Kindergarten would be more meaningful for the students as a full day program. But, now that my own daughter is going, I desparately want a half day program.
8:14--Luci says with a sad look, "I miss Gracie already." Daniel repeats with a sad look on his face.
12:20--I mentioned at lunch that Grace was having pineapple for lunch just like us and I was told not to mention her name at the table.
3:30--15 minutes after we were expecting the bus, the bus pulls onto campus.
3:31--Grace and company get out.
3:31:30--They are still walking while Mrs. Warner, Ken and I wait patiently at the cottage for them to sprint into our arms, knowing they must have missed us as much as we missed them all day long.
3:31:45--They walk.
3:31:50--Grace breaks into a gallop. Finally she saw us...we think.
3:31:55--She was just catching up with her long legged friends.
3:32--FINALLY, she sees us and does a little jog towards us. Luci intercepts her first. "Mommy! Daddy!" I still question whether she was genuine or could see in our faces that we really needed a Mommy Daddy moment.
The rest of the afternoon she entertained our questions with stories of how much fun she had. She did love it. She didn't spill the soup and she ate about half of everything in her lunch. She ate the rest when she got home.
So it was a success. Grace was just as excited for the bus the 2nd day, but she remembered to give me a kiss before she hopped on. I still got wet eyes, and Luci still said, "I miss Grace already" as soon as the bus left. Daniel was quietly pouting too. But Grace didn't forget them. The second day she brought home a piece of candy for Luci and Daniel to share. She got it for knowing one of the rules in gym class.

The little differences

2008-08-05T19:17:00.004-05:00

So we have been spending a good part of the summer at the pool. Grace has finally gotten the nerve to go off the diving board. First with a life jacket, but today she wanted to go without it. The first time she jumped off into my arms. The second time I was trying to relish the time warping front flip I just landed. The judges only put out a 4.5, but for the first time in 15 years, I was satisfied. So I was trying to enjoy this and Grace just ran off into the water and swam to the side herself! I was very impressed (and glad that she didn't drown).

But, the greatest part about today was the slide. Daniel even likes the slide. When he gets bored with the other 2 pools, he actually asks to go down it. And for those of you who don't know, it is a 3 story twisty-turny slide. So we went to the slide. See if you can enjoy the difference in reactions on the way down....

Daniel--He he he. He he he. Giggle-laughing the whole way down.
Luci--Weeeeeeeeee. This is fun. Weeeeeeee. Whoah, we're almost done! Weeeeee.
Grace--How do they build water slides? Mom, who ever thought of how to build the first water slide?

Unlock the Future

2008-07-13T20:30:00.003-05:00

So Luci went outside to play--swing to be more specific. And she was doing some crazy stuff, leaning back, etc. So I asked Grace if she was going outside to play. She said, "No, I want to unlock the future." Very matter of factly.

What she meant was she wanted to watch Cyberspace. From what I can see Cyberspace is the Dora equivelant of a tv show. In otherwords it has a lot of value to it. Cyberspace is funded by The National Science Foundation and focuses on problems that have to do with math. They throw in some social skills problems as well. She loves to unlock the future.

2008-07-13T19:21:00.006-05:00

The girls had their end of the year celebration for preschool. Grace "graduated" from the program. Luci got a certificate: she will graduate next year.

Doesn't Daniel look cute here! I can assure you it is a facade. He was a royal terror during the whole thing.
And their friends...

Secret confessions of a 3 year-old

2008-07-13T18:49:00.002-05:00

Ken after seeing Luci's orange hands post Cheetos snacktime -Go wash your hands, they're a mess.

Luci-(walking toward the bathroom, talking to herself, in earshot of me, but not knowing it) Dad said to wash my hands, but I'm just going to lick them because I LOVE CHEETOS!

Even Luci knew it was too loud...

2008-07-10T17:22:00.002-05:00

Why does my 5 year old already know that when a song plays with subject, We Rock, she must turn it up to parent maddening decibles?

'Kisses don't work' drama continues

2008-07-10T17:20:00.002-05:00

So lately the kisses don't work again. But today I gave Luci a hug after my kiss didn't work on her hurt noggin. She so sweetly exclaimed, "Now your hugs work!"

2008-07-10T10:41:00.001-05:00

Sorry for the long delay in blogging. We bought a new computer and I'm fretting setting up the camera again. I will try to at least add tidbits for those of you who check religiously and find nothing!

Juli

Sorry

2008-07-10T10:36:00.002-05:00

Daniel hit Luci with his train. I know this isn't exactly proud parent reporting material, but there's more. Luci came to tell on him and express her sadness. As she was doing this, Daniel came and gave her a big hug (almost knocked her down) and said his, "arry" (sorry). I didn't even have to tell him too!

He has been saying please, thank you and even your welcome at appropriate times. (For a while he was saying your welcome when I gave him a cracker.) I think manners are so cute on little 2 year olds.

A dapper shirt

2008-05-23T10:33:00.002-05:00

So Grace was organizing her shirts because I told her maintanence was coming to do their yearly inspection and we needed to make sure everything was clean and organized. While organizing her shirts she came to me and asked if I could clean her shirt because it has a stain on it. "It's really a dapper shirt and it feels so comfortable." TV is not all bad. She learned dapper from Pinky Dinky Doo, a show on Noggin.

The Ballet

2008-05-02T23:33:00.008-05:00

Exit right
Waiting for the thank yous to end.

Backstage before the show.
I think this was supposed to be a big growly bear move. Notice how in all the pictures she is looking right at the camera!

This is what you think it is.

Luci's Ballet was tonight. She did wonderful. Very cute just like the three year old ballet was supposed to be. She first yelled from way across the stage, "Hi Daddy!" She made a very good bear. She was great at the "swimming" move. She made sure to pause and point out, right in the middle, that she is not supposed to cross the line on the stage, and she had no shame in attending to a little..umm shall we say discomfort...down there, right on stage, both front and back. (You see ballerinas don't wear underwear for perfomances.) At the end of the show when thank you's were being handed out, she couldn't stop bowing with her friends. So, it is no suprise that when I asked her what her favorite part of the show was, she said bowing.

Grace also got to be a part of the ballet. Actually I did too. We were customers shopping in the store. We picked out our toys in the beginning of the play. At the end, the boxes we recieved our gifts in were empty because the toys didn't want to leave the toy store. Grace gave a great surprise look. The toys chased us out of the store. It was quite fun.

In this video you can see the girls walking off the stage. I don't know why I didn't think to tape their performances with the digital camera, but now I know I easily could. You can see the ballet teacher telling Grace what a great job she did and Grace's reaction. So cute.

During the car ride home I asked Grace if she enjoyed acting. She said she did and she would do it again, but she would not like to take ballet, just watch Luci. I asked her why. She said because she just didn't get it. It was too hard for her.

I started to feel bad that she thought this way about herself (although the statement is not totally false) until not 2 minutes later she started telling me she knew 3+3 =6 and 5+5=10 and 6+6=12. I asked her how she knew all this information. She said, "If it wasn't for these hands I couldn't do any of it." How cute, but I am a savy and nationally board certified teacher. I can understand 3+3 and 5+5, but I had to ask, "How did you figure out 6+6 when you don't have 6 fingers?" She replied, "I just pretended each hand had one extra finger and counted them that way!" Now where did she learn that? I asked and she said no one told her she was just smart. I think I believe her, but if anyone has given her this advice, please let me know. And by the way I don't feel bad for her. Luci has her strengths and Grace has hers. They share quite a few and each have their own individual ones. Can life be more perfect for a mother?

More spring break pics

2008-04-19T12:25:00.004-05:00

Spring Break

2008-04-19T11:48:00.004-05:00

Here are some pictures from our spring break. We went to Southern Illinois to load up on our Saluki wear and relax in an A frame cabin. We were invisioning peace and quiet, no tv ect., but what we got was a nice little cabin with all the ammenities...tv, dvd, dishwasher, etc. It was still relaxing. 2 small ponds surounded the cabin. There was a nice picnic table and fire pit. We had s'mores every night (the last night microwaved due to rain). But the weather was beautiful every day. We went on hikes and fishing also...
Note Daniel swiping the grahms and chocolate

Gathering wood for a fire with no charcoal. Ken and I both got it going at separate times, but couldn't keep it up. We saw the rain coming and blamed it on that as we headed inside for microwave smores.

Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt

2008-04-19T11:16:00.004-05:00

We signed up for a flashlight Easter egg hunt at a local park district the week before Easter. However, Grace developed a 103 temp. the night before so we called and cancelled. Instead, Easter Saturday I put together our own flashlight Easter egg hunt. The girls had so much fun doing it that they asked me to set it up again. And a week or two later they hid eggs for each other. (Please note: The camera flash makes the pictures look like it is light out, it is actually very dark.)

Totally Free Day at the Museum

2008-04-19T08:45:00.006-05:00

The Field Museum had free days the whole month of February. The day the tuckpointers came to cut the whole in the wall for Daniel's bedroom, I gathered the kids and we headed for the Field Museum. I had planned on using the parking garage, but there was meter parking not too far away. $15 saved. Although the wind was blistery cold, we made it. The lady at ticket sales said she would give me the day for free, acting like it was a gift from her. I thanked her and then mentioned that I wanted to visit the underground adventure. She said since she didn't mention that that would cost, she gave it to me for free too! It was really that simple. I knew it cost extra and I had my card out ready to pay and everything. But she gave it too me. I'm not one to argue with others, so I chalked it up to My lucky day!

Grandma Brenda met us at the museum for lunch (tab on her). She had wanted to take us out to one of Chicago's more interesting restaurants, but Grace reminded us that there was a McDonald's in the museum. She remembered from when she went with Daddy and she was sure she could lead us to it. So we ate at McDonald's. It was lovely. Along with lunch, Grandma Brenda gave everyone money for the museum shop. Daniel got a dinosaur, Grace and Luci a royal Egyptian throne. (For the sake of Mr. Gross's teaching, I did have to pay for gas to get there. There are no totally free lunches.)

The perfect picure spot (according to Grace)

Underground adventure (the kids were scared of this exhibit from the beginning. Grace only finally became comfortable when I showed her that this was a seed, the very last thing in the adventure of the exhibit. Good thing it was free.)

Sue

I took pictures in the bathroom because it was a highlight of the trip. They had a potty small enough for Grace and Luci, a step stool that made hand washing easy and a way fun hand dryer.

The music room in the Crown Family Play Lab was definately a favorite. They liked playing all kinds of drums and precussion instruments. I liked the frogs the best.

They Mayan room was great too. They enjoyed playing with the corn.

My little scientific observers are so cute!

We had a great time. But as Grace often lets me know, family is most important. So, when I asked her what the best part of the day was, it was of course when Grandma Brenda was there. I asked what if she wasn't there? Still, she answered the best part was when Grandma Brenda was there. I said what if Grandma Brenda was there the whole time, then what would be your favorite part. And she said the part when Grandma Brenda was there. I just asked her what her favorite part was again, to see if her answer would be different. Her answer was, "My most favorite part was when Grandma Brenda was there, but my most saddest part was when Susie wasn't there."

Mommy's little laundry helpers

2008-04-19T08:37:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Thank You's

2008-04-18T23:04:00.005-05:00

The kids recieved some neat gifts for Valentine's Day. McDonald's coupons and money. Grace spent her money on 2 types of chex mix. Luci bought some window hangs that she painted all by herself. They also picked out an Arial doll that really swims, a ballerina jewelry/music box, flapper style dress up clothes and crown and jewels to match. I was going to have them take a nice picture in front of some roses and add a nice thank you note to all who gave the wonderful gifts. Unfortunately the photo session didn't go as I had planned. Grace quite rudely recieved an important phone call, Daniel thought under the table and the roses were more interesting than the picture I wanted and Luci was actually doing a great job posing, until Grace included her in on the phone call. But, as you can see in the following fliptracks, they had fun. And I thank all of you who gave the kids gifts. They really enjoyed them.

http://www.fliptrack.com/watch/mnoJCyNeMy

Classic Luci pose

2008-04-18T23:01:00.002-05:00

The boot

2008-04-18T22:55:00.002-05:00

One day Daniel found his boots, put one on and just walked around for about a half hour with little else on.

Daniel writes

2008-04-18T22:45:00.004-05:00

I love when kids start to hold crayons and write. I think it's so cute. Here's one of the times Daniel looked so cute writing, but each time I snapped the picture, he would put the crayon in his mouth instead of on the card.

What in the world?....

2008-04-18T22:16:00.002-05:00

Does anyone remember those wonderful little puff balls? They are mostly made from yarn. You may have thrown a bunch of them in the middle of the big parachute in gym or preschool class and watched them fly around like popcorn. Maybe you tried juggling them or played Bozo buckets with them. They are bright and colorful and most kids have great innocent fun with them.

Well the cottage received a bag of them in order to encourage some cottage-friendly physical activity when the kids can't go outside to move around. All a part of the new SPARKS movement introduced to us this year.

Grace, Luci and Daniel along with the neighbor kids also saw the puff balls and immediately wanted to play with them. Fine with me...until I saw what they wanted to use them for. So much for innocent puff ball fun...
Needless to say (and despite the fun I had taking pictures of them), the next day when the girls came over to play and everyone darted for the puff balls, I explained that they were off limits.

Can we get the boy a space of his own, PLEASE!?

2008-04-18T20:37:00.005-05:00

Daniel just loves playing with his sisters. At the time this picture was taken, we only had one room for the girls and Daniel to share. He played more frequently with the girls' toys than his own. So I sent this picture to the president along with a plea for an additional room. The very next day he told us the new room was on the way!

So now Daniel has his new room. Here are a couple pictures. The shelves were made and hung by Grandpa Sonny. They look great. He very rarely reverts back to the ballet dresses (Daniel that is, Grandpa Sonny never wears ballet dresses that I know of).

So sweet

2008-04-18T20:34:00.001-05:00

They are so sweet when they sleep. (Luci)

Quirky

2008-04-18T20:21:00.003-05:00

My camera is working again so I have lots of picture blog catching up to do....

When Grace gets an idea in her head, she often won't stop until she's accomplished it.

Here she decided the empty storage bin would make a great bed. So she put her pillow and a blanket in it and fell asleep. (She had a cold at this time, so the kleenex even found a home in her new bed.)

Do you want me to kiss it?

2008-04-15T13:45:00.002-05:00

So the other day, Luci was doing some crazy tumbling and bumped the outside of her ankle. She was very upset and came to me for comfort. I hugged her and asked if she wanted me to kiss it? She said she did. I'm happy to report my kisses, which for the previous 3 weeks have not been working, worked this time. She was happy again.

Daniel happened to witness the whole thing. So being the little copy cat that he is, he tumbled onto the floor, whined a little bit and held his ankle as though it were in traumatic pain. I again asked, "Do you want me to kiss it?" and he held up his ankle so I could kiss it. The pain was gone and he went on his merry way until later in the day when....

Daniel was inspecting the dishwasher and somehow hurt his finger. He started crying and held it up and as always pointed to the offender. I asked if he was ok, gave him a hug and asked if he wanted me to kiss it. So of course he....held out his ankle again so I could make him feel better. Kissing Daniel's ankle cures any ailment...

The next day I had the opportunity to show Ken. Ken wouldn't let him have a fudge pop. Daniel was very upset and came to tell me, again pointing to the offender (Ken) and had big crocodile tears. I gave him a hug and put his frustrations into words and then asked if he wanted a kiss. Guess what he did. He held up his ankle! I kissed it. Normally all would be well again, but I was laughing so hysterically when I did. He didn't appreciate this and kinda' pouted for a second, but then everything was better.

So to cure Daniel's ailments, just kiss his ankle.

We're off to see the Wizard...

2008-04-12T21:57:00.007-05:00

Today we went to Drury Lane to see the Wizard of Oz courtesy of Grandma Brenda. The girls really enjoyed it. Grace was excited to hear the audience was invited to accompany any songs they knew (ok I was the one who was really excited, but Grace did enjoy singing along). Luci got into the clapping. Luci was also scared of many parts, but when it was over said she enjoyed it. We all went to Cheesecake Factory afterwards. It was a great day.
I wanted to take pictures even though the girls already had many with Grandma Brenda, Susie and Corinne. Grace was at first very willing, then she got sick of it real quick. I don't blame her since her sister was twirling in front of her spotlight.

Luci was completely unwilling at first. But then we went to the bathroom and she remembered that her dress "goes like this" and wanted to pose for many more. (note the ruby red slippers)

Something's weird about this one

2008-03-19T00:01:00.002-05:00

Daniel grabbed a pile of towels while I was folding laundry. He carried them to the bathroom and with the help of Grace who opened the door for him, put the towels away. He didn't even drop one, and nobody showed him where to put them! There's hope for a clean freak in the Mahorney family yet!

Love is...

2008-03-18T23:59:00.002-05:00

Love is stopping the pretend car, going to pretend ballet, by squeeling the pretend brakes, at the exact same time, every time...like Luci and I do.

Getting a grown man to eat tomatoes

2008-03-16T08:51:00.002-05:00

If you want a grown "manly-man" to eat cherry tomatoes, show him how you can throw them in the air and catch them in his mouth similar to how they do it with popcorn.

Daniel's words

2008-03-16T08:46:00.002-05:00

Well he is finally getting the hang of it. Just some recent words are ball and apple (ball definately clearer than apple but I hear /p/ and 2 syllables). He says no and uh oh, really cute too. And last night he sat down and listened for over half of The Cat in the Hat without trying to tear a page. He could also point out the fish on every page. Yippee!!! He can also put his toes in his mouth and is not scared to try and put his mother's in also! I'm so proud.

Setting the deadline

2008-03-07T10:16:00.002-06:00

I am declaring that by summer (which for me starts June 1st) I will have all the scattered pictures neatly in albums and labeled so Grace, Luci and Daniel will have their very own picture memories and not just share their similar baby pictures.

Declared.

Grace Quote

2008-03-05T09:45:00.003-06:00

"I'm going to be so busy today."

"Doing what?"

"I have to catch Daniel on the slide, play with him, make him happy..."

She's been feeling very big sisterish today.

Luci Quote

2008-03-05T09:44:00.000-06:00

Mom, you make my heart feel so happy (while holding up a cookie cutter heart).

I love you to the front

2008-03-05T08:23:00.002-06:00

Last night Luci was so sweet to tell me she was tired. I asked if she wanted a hug and kiss and she said yes. Then she rubbed my cheek ever so sweetly and said, "I love you all the way to Alabama."

I said, modeling after one of our favorite books, Guess How Much I Love You, "I love you all the way to Alabama and back."

Luci started to walk away, but then turned around to say, "I love you all the way to Alabama and front." I love three year old logic.

Despicable

2008-02-26T22:52:00.003-06:00

Grace made the observation today that all the snow was gone yesterday and today the ground was covered by snow again. I asked her how she felt about that. She just answered, "despicable."

Daniel stuff

2008-02-25T23:28:00.004-06:00

So Daniel is immitating animal names in books when I say them and especially the sounds they make. Fun! His best today was the fish sound.

Unfortunately, Daniel's best face is his "Whatch you talkin' about" face. When we say no to him his eyebrows furrow and he gives a real hard look. Ken says stuff that will make him upset just to see it.

Another great moment today was when he was laying on the coffee table, knowing he shouldn't be. He looked up at me with the goofiest grin. So cute.

Secret Potion

2008-02-25T23:15:00.002-06:00

Luci was so upset today when one of her friends threw her secret potion on the floor and broke it. So Ken gave her his special secret potion. She could choose from various potion powers. She choose the pink one that gave her extra fast super speed.

She started to drink it, but had forgotten to take off the lid. Ken helped her with it. Then she drank it and was off down the hallway to test it out. Yep, she was fast!

So later that night she told me she had more secret potion. She reached into her shirt to pull it out. (I asked her why she kept it there and she said it was because she doesn't have any pockets.) She could open the lid to this potion, in fact this one had about 12 lids and she opened them all really fast. Then she took a drink and flew down the hall again at super speeds. When she returned, she pulled out another potion and said it was her normal potion. She took the multiple lids off and drank it up. She said it made her normal again. Then she tried to run away, but at a labored pace and said, "Yep, I'm slow again."

She makes me smile every day!

Girl Time

2008-02-25T23:04:00.004-06:00

What mother doesn't picture great shopping experiences with their daughters? Well today that dream became a reality. Thanks to my great husband who helped the girls clean their room Sunday night, I didn't have to worry about it today. So we were carefree. When Luci had to go to ballet, Grace and I went to the new Penney's. I saw a dress I wanted to try on on the web. When I told Grace this she wanted to try on dresses too. As soon as we walked in Grace started helping me pick out outfits that the models were wearing. She picked out a great bright pink dress with pink rinestones too. I tried it all on. Neither of us were too enthusiastic about the outfits, "blue with white stripes and pink diamonds are not your style mom." Then it was her turn.

She picked out 5 dresses. We only had time to try on 4, but everytime she put one on she went to the mirror and twirled in it. Daniel thought this was great. Her favorite was a blue and green tank dress with little bejeweled stones all over it. It had great twirl! And it was the first she picked out so I guess she really knows her style. We both had a blast. (And by the way, this was a try on only excursion and she was ok with that.)

She just cracks me up

2008-02-20T08:06:00.002-06:00

Last night Luci had crawled into bed with us. So this morning I had the pleasure of hearing her wake up while blogging. She opened her eyes and immediately started singing "Take me out to the ball game"!

We should show the whole world

2008-02-13T18:15:00.002-06:00

I recieved my school pictures today. Grace wanted to cut them up so she could have a copy. She then said we should give them to everyone in the world because they were the most beautiful pictures ever! (I tend not to agree, but it was nice to hear.)

Grace's birthday, Part 2

2008-02-05T08:02:00.000-06:00

Last year Grace always talked about having a surprise birthday party. This year she didn't ask for it, but I saw the Max and Ruby episode that had a surprise birthday party for Ruby and decided to try it.

So Grace spent the night at Grandma Brenda's and Susie's for her birthday time with them. She recieved way cool gifts; homemade skirts and "bras" to go with them. The next day Ken and I picked her up. We of course acted like we were going home, but instead headed to Dwight. When we were close to Dwight we had the girls put a "superhero cover up" over their heads so they wouldn't know they were in Dwight. The "Welcome to Dwight, Eat Stay and Play, in the friendliest town, in the whole u.s.a." signs usually give it away.

So when we arrived at mom and dad's I took Daniel and Luci in. Luci of course got out of the car and yelled, "Grandma's house!" even though we warned her that superheros can't talk or the villans will find us. Ken was prepared though and spoke some random jabber so Grace couldn't hear. (She still had the piece of red cloth over her head at this time.)

So Ken carried her into mom and dad's. We told her that we were going to Subway. When she got to the door, everyone was in their proper hiding places and yelled surprise to her. Her reaction was to turn to Ken and say, "You are always tricking me, Daddy!"

It was so much fun. When I asked her what her favorite part was, she said when everyone yelled surprise.

She requested Key lime pie for every party. Grandma also picked up an ice cream cake from the new super sized Dairy Queen. Grace wanted a super hero birthday with Kim Possible and Wonder Woman so I made pictures to decorate the cake with and we used red, silver and blue stars in the kitchen. The kids played pin the cape on the superhero and musical chairs. The highlight of musical chairs was definatly when Luci pushed Alex out of her way to get into a chair. I'm not exactly proud of the moment, but it was classic.

I of course forgot the camera trying to remeber everything else for the surprise. Mom's wasn't working and Jane and Tim didn't have theirs. So no internet pics, but hopefully Aunt Lori will come through with some pictures of the day.

Grace's birthday

2008-02-05T06:58:00.001-06:00

Grace wanted a Chucky Cheese birthday party this year with her friends. The cost was up there, but thoughts of no set up and clean up were too great to not try. So we abliged.

It turned out great. We had the Best hostess who wouldn't even let the mothers pour their own pop. She did everything. We had the party on a Wednesday at noon so we had free reign of the place (well except for 2 boys that ended up in our group picture with Chuck E.)

Grace had a blast playing with her friends, and I had a blast sitting and chatting with my friends. We were able to chat because Ken was so wonderful to stay in the play area and keep an eye on the kids. Chucky E. Cheese was so great that I forgot to have Grace open her presents in front of everyone!!

Grace loves Chuck E. Cheese, but is not so fond of Chuck E. himself. Notice she is standing back in every picture.Grace wanted Key Lime Pie instead of birthday cake at all of her parties. She got on that kick when there was never ending pie in Alabama thanks to Aunt Susie. I was worried how it would go over with the kids, but with whip cream and sprinkles on top, most seemed to enjoy it. I recommend Matteson Chuck E. Cheese on a weekday afternoon. It was great!

Grace's artwork

2008-02-05T06:49:00.000-06:00

Grace loves to take pictures. Here are some from her gallery....

She likes working with props. Bear before and after.
I think she was going for contrast in this picture; pretty flowers next to filthy table.

Concerned?

2008-02-05T06:42:00.000-06:00

I was immediately taken aback when I saw this in the girls room....

I didn't know quite what to say. But this is where God's plan to have a man and a woman working together to raise children works so well. Once Ken saw it, he immediately questioned the girls to make sure that Barbie and the prince were married. They were. I wasn't expecting these issues for quite some time!

The Little Christians

2008-02-04T22:17:00.001-06:00

Yesterday Grace was saying, "A little voice tells me we should...." I don't remember the end of the sentence, but it prompted Luci to excitedly exclaim something to the effect that God was the little voice she sometimes hears.

Today Luci put her hand to her ear and said, "Sometimes I hear God telling me things, but I just don't listen!" She's so cute....and honest.

Eight takes six

2008-01-24T15:58:00.000-06:00

The girls were playing a game today. They used the checker/chess board. They were using both checker and chess pieces. They would put a pice on the board and say something like "eight takes six." They would then move some pieces around and then it was the next person's turn. "One takes three, --nine, eight, seven--ten takes two--three strikes one. After a couple rounds Luci would put her hand on her head and shake it like Grace just executed a stellar move against her. But then she would make a "seven takes three" move and give a little clenched fist "oh yeah." This went on for about 5-10 minutes. It appeared to be a close score. I couldn't say for sure as I haven't been schooled on the rules of the game. Then they moved on to another game (by cleaning up the first without being told--awsome). I had a phone call so I didn't get to see who won.

Confirmation that she watches too much tv

2008-01-24T09:33:00.000-06:00

Grace just told me that I needed space bags for my bed. I have a fluffy comforter and I think Grace likes a flat bed. So when I asked her to smooth it out so she could sit there, she said spacebags are easy and they would help.

And his first words are... (drum roll please)

2008-01-16T10:32:00.000-06:00

Knock! Knock!

Grace and Luci were telling knock knock jokes and came running saying he said Knock Knock. They say he says a lot of stuff because they speak baby. Grace speaks baby in English and Spanish. But this time they were not translating. They were quoting word for word. It was too cute.

So although he has come close on many words, his first official word is "Knock, Knock." Congrats Daniel!

People are not made for cleaning...

2008-01-15T13:30:00.001-06:00

People are not made for cleaning, they are made for loving. This is quoted by Grace, January 15, 2008. She later asked, "Do I look like I'm made for cleaning?" I said yes. She said, "I'm not, I'm made for loving!"

Great reading material

2008-01-12T22:37:00.000-06:00

Thank you again to Aunt Ruth who ordered a year's subscription of Highlights for Grace and Your Big Backyard for Luci for Christmas. Grace loves to look at Goofus and Galant to see what social attrocities Goofus performs every week and to see how kind and well mannered Galant is. She usually compares herself to them and always identifies with Galant.

Luci recieved her first Your Big Backyard today. She was so exited. We sat down right away and looked through the whole magazine first. Luci made some intelligent comparisons between a snail and a hedgehog with little prompting. (They both roll up like a ball.)

So when we were done previewing it I told her to put it in a special spot so she could find it when we were ready to read some of the articles. She quickly said, "I'm going to put it in the bathroom so I can read it when I have to go potty!" And she did...put it there. I didn't inquire if she used it or not.

Vacation, Happy to get away!

2008-01-05T22:21:00.001-06:00

We had the best vacation over Christmas break. We traveled to Alabama---I mean the "Gulf Coast" to stay in Ken's grandparents' condo. They stay for 2 months and we made it lively for their first week so they can really appreciate the peace and quiet of Orange Beach.

The condo is right on the beach with a wonderful view from the balcony. We walked onto the beach and none of the kids were scared of the waves (last year all of them were). We played games like jumping over the wave, running from the wave and dunking in the water. Grace and I buried Luci and gave her a mermaid tail, then Luci and I did the same for Grace. Daniel kept digging in the biggest hole on the beach. Later the girls buried Ken. I was also able to go jogging on the beach 2 days of vacation. Tough, but awesome. We also picked shells from the beach.

The pool was a big hit with the kids. We swam every day. The condo had floatation toys which the kids loved.

One day we took a boat trip along the canal leading to the Gulf. This is where dolphins hang out. We were guaranteed to see dolphins and we did. We first saw them swimming and I thought, "Oh that's neat." But then the captain got the dolphins to follow the boat. They followed for about 3/4 of our trip and were jumping and weaving the whole time. It was great.

We visited some awesome restaurants, and some not so great. The Original Oyster House is our favorite with all you can eat shrimp and flounder and the best salad bar. One pizza place advertised warm beer and lousy pizza. I thought this was just a joke, but it wasn't, and the service was pretty slow too. Grace loved it though. And the entertainment was good (a one man guitar/harmonica show playing party time favorites). We also went to Hooters, Gulf Shores with Susan, Corinne, and Ryan and had a blast.

Another meal that was great was the one after my 4 mile race. Florabama is a shack of a bar that sponsors a 4 mile to raise money for the fire departments in the area. The after race meal is red beans and rice. It was fabulous! It's served with garlic toast and 2 beer tickets. This year the condo was only 5 buildings from Florabama and everyone got to cheer for me on the way past it. That was motivating. I beat my goal time and was very happy.

For New Year's Eve the kids, Ken and I went to Lulu's for a NOON Year's Eve party. Lulu is Jimmy Buffet's sister. She owns a Restaurant by the marina. There were hundreds of kids at the event along with crafts, face painting and sand everywhere complete with sand toys for a sand castle contest; Judged by Lulu herself. The winner got to help let the balloons go at noon. There were also kid friendly firecrackers at noon. The staff rolled out bubble wrap. At noon they counted down and the kids stomped on the bubble wrap. Most kids were very disciplined and stayed off it when told to, even when the countdown was delayed until 5 minutes after noon. However, Ken saw an elderly snow bird doing a dance on it, not behaving. Our kids were awesome and really loved it, especially Grace.

Ken and I were free to do activities we wanted to with Grandma Brenda and Susie staying with to help with the kids. That was really the best part of the trip. I got a massage and 2 nights we watched the sun set from the outside hot tub. (Setting means the sun is going down as Luci would point out every time.) The crazies from Illinois also dipped their feet in the outdoor pool. And when I say crazies I mean Grace and Luci! Well Ken and I did also for therapy, my after race leg pain and his lower back. We used it to hot-cold our injuries (cold pool-hot tub). But the kids did it just for fun--and before we did! Susie and Corinne also had the lunies and went in at least once each.

When asked what the best part of Alabama was, Luci said all of it. As we were getting ready to leave we were all sad to go. Grace said she was staying a had to be carried away from the condo. One of the best vacations I've had. We did so much that I'm sure I forgot to mention something (like the great meals prepared for us every day) if anyone wants to add more to the comments that would be great.

Vacation mishap

2008-01-05T22:17:00.000-06:00

During vacation we were slightly careless with the camera. Daniel got a hold of it on the beach and smooshed sand into it. It still worked and we got some great pics, but then Ken ran over it with car. I thought the card would be ok, but the computer won't open the pictures without formatting. I think that means I'm going to lose the pictures. I'm super bummed. But life goes on. However, blog pictures will be few until we get a new camera.

Everyone in the World

2008-01-05T22:12:00.000-06:00

Grace is so sweet. She always says she loves us the best, and Daniel and Luci and everyone in the world she knows.

Ken was trying to explain to her that she could love us the best and not the whole entire world the best. We thought she understood until...

She was obviously tired and Ken asked her if she wanted to call Grandma Brenda to tell her goodnight. Grace slowly shook her head no and said, "then I would have to call the whole world," and fell asleep.

Jokes

2007-12-21T09:08:00.000-06:00

Luci is at the age, or maybe it's her personality, where she plays with language and says lots of funny stuff. Here are a couple.

On Max and Ruby, Ruby was decorating a beautiful tree. Max was decorating with rubber snakes for garland, worms for tinsel, etc. Luci said, "That's not a beautiful tree, that's a Yuckiful tree!"

Yesterday, I was laughing out loud about something I was thinking about that wasn't 3 year old friendly. Luci wanted to know what I was laughing about . I said I was just telling a joke to myself. So she said, "Self, Knock, knock" "Self, who's there?" "Self, banana" "Self Banana who" "hahahahahah"

Getting tough

2007-12-19T10:38:00.000-06:00

Ok. Cleaning for me is definately first on my list of dislikes. So it frustrates me to have to clean up after myself and 3 little ones (sometimes 1 big one too.) So here is a strategy I learned from Parenting with Love and Logic. Give them a time limit to clean their own things, when times up you clean, but you just take it all away. They have to earn it back.

I wasn't sure if it would work, still not sure if it will long term, but here is what happened even before I was done with their room...

They wanted to earn back the Dancing Princess night light. Grace said they were going to clean to earn back everything in the boxes. I wasn't sure if she was for real, but after she was done with the kitchen, she said she would do the girls' bathroom. I said she could do ours, and she she did.

They fight over who gets to mop. Maybe I should have started this a long time ago!!!