The end of another week.

One week closer to summer break.

Another Friday in which we left at 7:25 and didn’t return until 4:00.  I’m dead tired after today, but it was a good day, a great workout, saw Stacy, went to Mass, the library, Starbucks, picked up Goose and went back to the library.

:: So, the Baby Hulk was wait listed at Rogers.  He’s number 4 on the wait list.  That makes me think he’ll probably get into the school.  But he might not.  All along I had assumed I would just homeschool him if he didn’t get in and Sunday morning Lance said that wasn’t what he wanted.  Here we go again, right?  Part of me wanted to yell, “who the hell do you think taught him how to read, write, love the outdoors and so much more?”  “ME, ME, ME!”  I might have made a few remarks and stayed mad all day, but I’m over it.  One year at a time.  Kindergarten isn’t compulsory in Texas so if he doesn’t get a spot by Fall, he will stay home.  If he does get a spot, Lance wants him at school with Goose.  Next Spring we’ll evaluate and apply to River Oaks Elementary.

:: Is Easter really here already?  I went to order some books for the boys’ Easter baskets only to find out they won’t arrive until after Easter.  Thank goodness, Stacy has Amazon Prime so I can get free 2-day shipping.  I am pretty excited about the books I chose for the boys.  A mix of seasonal books for Baby Hulk, Owl Babies for No David,  Blueberries for Sal and a new Easter book for Goose, and sweet, sweet A Tale for Easter for Baby Z.  (Squirt doesn’t like to read much, so I didn’t order him a book.)  We don’t have huge baskets at Easter.  While it is a day of celebration, I try to keep it small: candy, a small gift, and holy card or the like.

:: I started reading Superfudge to the boys last night.  We only read one chapter, but during this chapter the main character is furious that his mom is pregnant.  Baby Hulk and Goose were pretty horrified with Peter.  They just didn’t get why someone would be upset with having a new baby.  I’ve been pretty blessed with how each child has reacted to the addition of a new baby in our family.  Both of these two boys are actively praying for another baby.  Sweet, right?

:: I’m not sure why they are praying so hard because lately Baby Z has become a super fuss.  Yesterday, we went to lunch with my parents and every time they looked at her, she jerked away, made a foul face and started spitting.  Today at the library, she spit at me the entire time we were there.  Even the grandma’s at the gym are noticing a change in her.  Lance thinks she is so, so delicate.  Hmmm…

:: Today was another big library day.  I hadn’t been to the branch in River Oaks for a year and have I been missing out.  (I feel like every branch is good except the one down the street from us.)  I left with over 30 books.  I forgot my bag in the car, so I gave some to Baby Hulk to hold.  I was barely balancing the books and the baby while trying to keep up with No David.  A guy in his 20’s was walking to the door, a really heavy door I might add, he turned and looked at us.  Then kept walking and let the door close in our face.  What a jackass.  And yes, I called him that.  Then proceeded to tell the boys to never, ever let a door fall in someone’s face, especially someone with a ton of books and kids.

Find It is one of those perfect games to keep children occupied, especially in the car.  It’s the kind of game I like a lot too.  We had found everything except the Penny.  I have five different friends who have this game, and none of them have found the penny.

Now, I am one of the few who can say they found the penny!

Last week I took our version out to start looking for the penny again.  Baby Z got a hold of it and started knocking it around.  Soon No David started yelling that Baby Z broke our game.

I cleaned up the mess, which could have been so much worse.

As Lance was getting ready to throw it away, I screamed, “Stop!!  Dump it all out, I want to find that damn penny.”

It was there.

Yesterday I went through everything we did over Spring Break while Baby Hulk wrote a journal entry about the week.  I knew it beforehand, but after going through the list of things we did, both Baby Hulk and I agreed the week was full and enjoyable.

A lot of people like to rest when they are on vacation.  Not me.  I like to go places, show the kids as many different things as I can.  I want to make sure they have a chance to experience a lot of different things.  And that doesn’t mean I (or they) have to be entertained all the time, it’s just that when it’s Spring Break, I want to DO something rather than just relax.  While Houston does have a lot of things to do, I wasn’t in the mood to stay here the entire break.  Plus, Goose wanted to go to Austin.

Not to bore anyone, but I’m listing everything we did over the break.  Doing this yesterday helped me and Baby Hulk really appreciate all that we have: family, two great cities to experience and each other.

Friday: Stations of the Cross with another family and fish fry at church.  My dad asked if the fish was grilled.  Ha.  Not a chance.  It was so good.  Will be back this week.
Saturday: Goose and Baby Hulk to YAC to play, new shoes for Baby Z and No David, visit Aunt Mary.
Sunday: Goose and I are sick all day.
Monday: Blue Bell Creamery, lunch and Barrington Living Farm.  Boys enjoyed Blue Bell, especially the sample, but I think they liked the farm even better. They washed clothes nonstop.  I ran into a family of four there, and we talked about our families.  We joked about everyone taking these nice “big” trips while we were on a living farm.  I love trips, but wouldn’t change a thing.
Tuesday: Fajita Flats, Spring shopping, sit on phone with faucet company
Wednesday: Took Goose and Baby Hulk to see How I Became a Pirate at Main Street Theater.  GREAT show. The boys loved it, will be going to see another show there in April.  Swim lessons, drive to Austin.  Meet my dad and go to Shady Grove.  Baby Hulk very happy with his burger,  I am happy with my fries.  Uncle David and Aunt Diana join us.
Thursday: up at 6:45, boys literally started crying at how early we had to wake up.  Natural Bridge Caverns, wonderful except there was a snake in the caverns.  Seems normal, except it never occurred to me that there might be snakes in the caverns.  Lunch, Zilker Park.  Decide there are too many people there to keep track of my kids so we go home and relax.  Dinner at Hyde Park, my absolute favorite fries.  D& D join us again, and now the boys shout “I’m the man” all the time.
Friday: Austin Nature and Science Center, LOVE this place.  We could have stayed here all day long.  Instead, we leave to get lunch and catch the game.  Instead of catching game, we sit at a IHOP waiting on pancakes (no meat, and pancakes seemed like a smart choice.)  Take boys to UT campus, and talk about the good old days.  Think it’s about to be 20 years since I graduated.  Wait, IT HAS BEEN 20 years since I graduated.  I could have stayed there all day.  Instead, we hit the Capital for 41 minutes, all the money I could find in my car for the meter.  Afterwards, we eat at Kerbey Lane.  Pancakes!  So good.  Go to my cousins house and boys play.
Saturday: Hike greenbelt.  It was great, but next time, I want a babysitter.  I really enkoy hiking, but it’s too stressful with all the kiddos. Eat at Phil’s Ice House and say our goodbyes to my cousins.  Bluebonnet pictures.  Drive Home.
Sunday: mass, The Lorax.

Busy Week.

Wonderful Week.

Only things missing were Squirt and Lance.

We had fun with friends, and my dad spent a few days with us in Austin.  He really spoiled us.  We’re pretty blessed.

I have been dying to take the kids to campus for years.  They’ve been to a game, but I wanted to walk around campus.  They saw the dorms, which still have the same smell.  But also a compost bin.  The boys decided that one day I will be visiting them at school there.

They loved being outdoors and there was proof (for me) that we’ve learned quite a bit this year, and that my goal of learning about nature is becoming a reality.  My favorite spot was probably the Nature and Science Center.  I imagine we will go there every time we’re in Austin, it’s that good.

Time with family is always the best though.  The boys loved being around their Grandpa; we were sad when he left.  They really enjoyed playing with their cousin.  They can’t get enough of that.  Baby Hulk just asked me when Hayes can come and spend the night.

And here are the highlights in pictures:

After walking through campus and talking nonstop about college, Goose declared two things.

First, he is going to the University of Texas.

And second…

He is taking a picture of me with him.

I’ve always said this one is smart.

::The boys have their first baseball games tomorrow.  I’m excited for them, both Goose and Baby Hulk seem to enjoy playing.  I’m glad, but have become super stressed about them getting lice.  How do I tactfully tell the rest of the team to stay away from their helmets?  I can’t be the first parent worried about this, can I?  Tomorrow I will be spraying them with some stuff I found at Whole Foods before we head to the games.

::This week has flown by so fast.  I was worried that it would drag after our break.  Then I realized we only have 8 weeks left of school.  So very excited.  I can’t wait to relax all summer long with my kids.  I took Goose and Baby Hulk to a movie showing at Rogers this evening.  All the moms were talking about camps for their children.  Not me.

::Tomorrow we also find out if Baby Hulk has a spot at Rogers.  I’m acting all cool, “I know he’s smart, if he doesn’t get in, no biggie”.  While most of us think our kids are smart or talented, I believe this one might be gifted.  He certainly has the personality of a gifted child.  That said, I haven’t stressed all week despite the fact that six people have asked about it.  I must be maturing.  Of course, the letter might not arrive until Monday, which of course means, I will be stressing out all weekend.

But my big question is: do I call my friend whose son applied as well?  What is the right answer in this case?  Think I will avoid the phone.  And while I don’t believe in signs from above, I did tell my friend today that BH not getting a spot would be the kick in the ass Lance and I need as far as homeschooling goes.

::I took Squirt to see The Hunger Games this afternoon.  I even got him out of school early.  It was so worth it.  He has told me thank you at least ten times since the movie ended.  It was fun, and I found myself chatting to him more during the movie than the other way around.  I wonder if I was getting on his nerves.  I enjoyed the movie quite a bit, and think they’ll definitely be able to make the other two books into movies.

::I woke up at 6:30 today, left the house at 7:25, dropped off the boys at school, went to spin, took No David to the doctor, ran home, showered, went to a Mom’s group meeting, went to mass, came home, had four eggs, ran out to pick up Squirt, went to the movie, picked up Fish from the church, went to Rogers to take Goose and Baby Hulk to movie night.  I’m sick, and I wonder why I’m not getting better.  On that note, I’m going to sleep so I can dream about both Baby Hulk getting into school and him getting a big rejection letter.

Today is the feast of St. Joseph.  He is the patron of  fathers, carpenters, those seeking employment, the Church and a peaceful death.  (And probably a lot more.)

Long ago, when I was waffling between boyfriends, I begged St. Joseph to intercede on my behalf and send me my Joseph.

His prayers worked.

I have a wonderful husband, a man who loves me and wants to spend time with me.  And a man who is open to life and has showered me with children.  I am forever grateful.  Thank you, God, and Thank you, St. Joseph for all your prayers.

Today, my prayer is different.  I pray that my daughter will find her St. Joseph.

In honor of today, these two built a birdhouse together and then had a treat to celebrate.

St. Joseph, pray for us and for all families, especially those who are suffering right now.

For Today…March 18, 2012

Outside my window…it’s a great day, not too hot, a nice breeze in the air.  It was the perfect day to plant Baby Hulk’s potato plant and Ivy.  Finally.

 I am wearing…orange jeans, a white shirt and my diamond heart.  I love the diamond heart, a gift from Lance, and my jeans.  The fact that they fit makes me happy.

I am praying…for a special intention, the Angelus daily for that intention, for my husband to get better, and for the last nine weeks of school to go smoothly.

Moments of grace…my kids showing me how to have a great time, my father giving us the best time in Austin.  We are sad that Spring Break has ended.  And were sad when my dad left Austin.  Our priest telling us that he missed us last week.

Learning all the time…Spring is officially here, in a few days.  We took advantage of the weather last week by being outside as much as possible.  I plan to continue that until it gets miserable, by Houston’s standards pretty soon.  We’re starting a unit on Spring.  So far Baby Hulk has found books he loves for Fall and Winter.  I am anxious to figure out his favorite for Spring.  (Easter basket gift.)  We’ll be focusing more on Religion as we end out the year.  While we try and live the faith all the time, I will probably incorporate actual lessons until May.

From the kitchen…nothing planned.  Not a good sign.  I had the best and by best, I mean my trifecta of places to eat in Austin.  And eat I did.  A lot.  So it’s back to being smart and healthy.  I’d like to plan a special meal for tomorrow, the Feast of St. Joseph.  We hit the Fish Fry last week.  So good, I’d like to go there again either this week or next.

Around the house…Ready?! My kitchen faucet broke.  NOT KIDDING.  And my phone lines are effed up, as in they don’t work at all.  We thought it might be the actual phones, but after purchasing new ones, realized it is indeed the lines.  Calling the phone company tomorrow.

And…before I left Austin, I had to put on my spare because I ran over something and had a slow leak.  Another new tire to purchase.

Planning…let’s see, my plans worked out for Spring Break, now it’s time to get my drainage pipes going so that the yard can be done in time for our parties.  A hotel room reservation in Tuscaloosa might be a good idea as well.  This week.  Small school plans for the rest of the year also.

Creating…I have some printables I want done yesterday.  This week.  I hope.  I want to make a cute centerpiece for Easter as well.  I need to figure that out soon so I’m not making it for next year.

Finding the joy…in time with my children and being smart enough to recognize when they have done enough for the day.

Reflecting on…ways to let go.

One of my favorite things…vacations.  Small or big, I love time away.  I’ve always been that way.  I really enjoy going places, which sounds dumb, but not everybody does.

A few plans for the week…settling back to normal, a picnic, Audubon Center, baseball games for Goose and Baby Hulk.

A picture to share…

Sunshine::

• you are the sweetest baby I have ever known
• you mainly want to be with me, and that’s just fine
• your second favorite is Squirt
• at times you have a bit of an attitude
• you will flail your arms around when you are annoyed, see above
• there are even times that you do raspberries at us to show your annoyance, like Sunday at mass you were mad because your brother moved my purse away from you, you basically spit in anger for three minutes
• as of 3/1, you wear size 3 diapers
• you have been cruising around the coffee table for about two weeks

No David::

• you are the most mischievous kid I know
• the twinkle in your eye makes me smile, usually
• you are the kid that takes whatever someone is playing with and runs
• the other day you told me I could be in the S club, it made my heart melt
• when we drop off Squirt you shout “bye Tomahawk”, which sounds like tomahuck
• you love food so much it scares me sometimes
• you want anything your brothers want
• when you do “school” you talk in a grunt whisper
• you have a twin you call “evil S”

Baby Hulk::

• you feel more than anyone I know
• that worries the heck out of me
• you love playing outside
• you hate wearing shoes
• you are a social person
• you love hamburgers with mustard and pickles
• you love Whataburger

Goose::

• you come home from school, bring in your backpack and immediately go outside to shoot hoops
• you eat two Kolaches for lunch almost daily
• have decided you don’t like cheese peanut butter crackers, which is strange because you gave that up for Lent last year
• you decided you want to go to Confession face to face
• take a book to bed to read
• love football and basketball
• tell me the sweetest things almost daily
• still carry Big Snoopy everywhere

Squirt::

• you decided that you needed to eat sweet potatoes to get some color
• have joined the wrestling team
• have come into your own with your friends in a way I always hoped, (prayers and sacrifice)
• are a pure teenager, sleeps a lot, effs around a lot
• that doesn’t always thrill me
• got busted skipping class the other day
• I have to be mad even though I skipped class all. the. time.  I was rarely busted.
• graduate from school in a little more than a year, WTH?

For Today…March 4, 2012

Outside my window…the sun is shining.  The weather is perfect.  Boys are playing nonstop.  I will not complain.

I am listening to…the boys shoot baskets, laugh in the bouncy castle.

I am wearing…a black skirt and a black shirt.  And a glass of wine.

Moments of grace…my dad taking us to the Rodeo, (as grateful as one can be after getting home at 10:30 with kids!), the laughter of my boys, seeing new friends at church and visiting like old friends, Prime Shipping, Rogers being smart enough to hold Field Day in March rather than May and old friends.

Pondering these words…Your day never fails to betray your priorities.  Wow.  Isn’t that the truth?!  So who and what are my priorities?  Of course, my children, but do they know it?  Is it enough to try to shy away from the phone and computer when they are around?  What about Lance?  Last night he told me that he doesn’t think couples work enough on their marriage.  That time alone is a good reminder of why couples fall in love since they didn’t fall in love with children around.  A subtle hint to me?  Possibly.  Mom, I need a babysitter soon.

I am praying…my heart is heavy.  Join me in praying for my intentions.  Please.  I will pray for yours as well.  In addition, many people are joining the Catholic church, praying for those people and my two children who will be receiving the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Eucharist soon as well.

Planning…small plans for Spring Break, meals for the week, our trip to Chelsea’s graduation, parties???  Please let a party I want to happen come true.

To live the liturgy…Lent has started.  Funny story, Lance was on the air and made a comment about Easter being about candy and Christmas about presents and so on.  Baby Hulk heard and was so upset.  “Easter is about Jesus dying for us and rising from the dead”.  Pat on my back!!!  I think my kids know what each holiday is about and I’m happy.  But do we have the relationship we need?  So far, we’re keeping up with our Lenten commitments including praying the stations and the extra Rosary Goose added to our calendar.  Tonight is one of the Rosary nights.

From the kitchen…Lance went grocery shopping without consulting me about the menu.  I am making the menu from what he purchased.

Learning all the time…We’re on R.  R is for Rainbows, Reptiles, Recycling and Rodeo.  Stop.  How are we at R already?  Truly, time does not stop for us.  Fingers are crossed that Baby Hulk doesn’t get a spot at Rogers.  Because that is the only way Lance lets me homeschool him.

Finding the joy…in my family.

Reflecting on…ways to be a good mother.

One of my favorite things…reading with the boys.

A few plans for the week…the zoo, lunch with a friend, outdoor Stations of the Cross and a grown up play date.

A picture to share…

I used my brand new dishwasher for the first time!  It took almost a week to fill.  Everyone keeps asking how we lasted so long without a dishwasher.  I can assure you (as if you care) that there were never dishes stacked in the sink for more than five minutes.  I’ve said it before, I can’t stand mess.  Of any kind.   I’d rather be late than have dishes in the sink.

I muttered a few comments over the past seven months about not having a dishwasher, but really, it wasn’t so bad.  Not when you think about the sewer line or the current state of my yard.  A dog who chews through and digs up everything in my yard.  Shingles.  Metro hitting my car.

I guess you can say I haven’t gotten over the past several months of what I consider to be really crummy luck.  In reality it’s just life, but life that hasn’t been as easy going as I would like.  And for someone who likes order, it’s tough.  For me and those around me.

But things are looking up.  At least, I am convincing myself of that before the next big wave hits.

So here is the Five for Friday: Home Improvement Edition

1. Side View Mirror repaired courtesy of Metro
2. tires purchased today, with three little kids in tow.  Sanity in check upon leaving store.
3. new dishwasher up and running
4. yard slowly moving along
5. ideas found for a piece over my mantle, no easy task as it’s been empty for five plus years with the exception of a wreath at Christmas

Why is it important to write about this?   Because I am having nightmares about this stuff, and I need to remind myself that it is better.

Last night I dreamed the ceiling was sinking in around my stove.  I needed a new stove and ceiling, and water was dripping all over the place.  I called Solis crying because I just. couldn’t. take. it. anymore.

So dramatic.

Next week, I’m getting bids on having my yard finished and deciding what to do about the dog.  No easy task on either front.

New dishwasher did a great job.  Although I remembered exactly why I haven’t missed the dishwasher.

I am the one who always has to empty it.