BOO!!

Well Halloween came and went way to fast. I am still in shock that it's Nov. 1st today. This Halloween was so much fun now that I have two little boys that really understand and are excited about trick or treating. Keaton was a Pirate this year and a cute ( oh, I mean scary)one at that,Ryan was an adorable Kangaroo, and Aiden a Lion. We could barely keep up with Keaton this year as he and cousin Joe were so excited they tried to leave us in the dust. Ryan was another story. He took his time walking and cautiously would go to the door and say "Happy Halloween!" once given a treat he would turn around each and every time and say "Wook what they gave me,Wow!" You would think the kid won the lottery, he was so thrilled. Candy is Ryan's soft spot the kid differently has a sweet tooth and Halloween I think ranks higher than Christmas so far. The boys made it as far as their little legs could carry them and called it a night. Keaton had just as much fun handing out candy when we got home.

It's hard to believe another Halloween has gone by and were now gearing up for the big holidays to come. I just love this time of year, the boys and I have been baking up a storm with chocolate chip pumpkin muffins, cookies, and Carmel apples. The good thing is that I love to bake but once I bake I rarely eat much of it. Sounds strange but Ben's office loves it!!

I love tradition and making memories and I am looking forward to all the moments to come.

So bored?

Keaton and Ryan went to an Spooky Creature presentation at the library a few days ago where they got to see all the scary creepy crawlies and even touch them or hold them. YUCK if you ask me but boys find this COOL and my little boys LOVED it. They had a great time and Keaton even held a tarantula....I don't even know what to say about this as it makes my skin crawl. When they returned Ryan ran to me and said "Oh mommy, I missed you so much, did you miss me? Were you so bored with out me?" This just made me smile and laugh. BORED huh? Not so much but I did miss him. Of course I didn't tell him this but he's so stinking cute. I'm one lucky mom.

What a Friday!!

Last Friday started a bit hectic and just kept going! I was set to watch my niece and nephew ages 4months and 5years old for my sister last minute which I knew would be crazy but little did I know how crazy the day would become. At around 11am Ben called and calmly asked if I could pick him up at urgent care. "WHAT THE H*LL are you doing there" was all I could say as I have had enough injuries and Dr. visits to last a long while. Well come to find out my dear husband put a metal stake thru his shoe and into the arch of his foot!! OUCH!!! He was getting stitches at the moment and needed a ride home. I swear people I've had enough, can we just get a small break, PLEASSSSSE! So then I was taking of 4 kids and a hurt husband. Oh what a day it was!!
He was doing this while helping the Chamber of Commerce get ready for an event. He is on the event committee and has been devoting and doing alot the last month to get ready for this fundraiser, and now he is barely able to walk. Of course this didn't stop him until the pain killers wore off. The event was held on Sat. and was a success and they raised alot of money. Thankfully it's over!!! Ben painkillered up and made it thru but needless to say the rest of the weekend I was the one and only to do about everything. I was run ragged to be honest, only good thing out of all this is I guess all this drama has been good for my waistline as I weighed myself yesterday and I've lost 11lbs since August and I'm not surprised as I am running out of my pants on a daily basis now literally. I need new pants that fit and a moment to sit and not be on the run or picking up the never ending kiddo messes. Thank goodness Ben's foot is feeling better, he gets the stitches out next Tues and hopefully we will be good to go!! Please god NO MORE STITCHES AND ONLY GOOD LUCK FROM HERE!!

Uncle Tom

Last Friday we were lucky enough to have Ben's uncle Tom come to visit for the weekend. He was out this way on business and decided to make the trip to Colorado and brave a weekend with our crazy crew. We had visited him a few years back in California when Keaton was 18 months so it was our turn to return the hospitality. We had a wonderful busy weekend and the boys really enjoyed getting to know Tom which is nice. I think it's important they know their family as much as possible. We took him to a few of our favorite spots like Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon, and Green Mtn Fall. The boys had a ball as we hiked and were outside the entire weekend. Thankfully it was 80degrees out last weekend which made for great hiking weather. We ate at a few wonderful outdoor eateries which I will have to work on running off this week. Overall lots of fun in the sun and good company. We love having company so if your in the mood for a get away and some beautiful scenery, Oh and some crazy little boys come see us! The basement guestroom and bath are always waiting.

Stitches out and down day!!

Well the stitches are out and Ryan is on the mend. The removal was not as traumatic as the when they were put in and the area seems to be healing nicely so all is GOOD. I just wish mom's nerves were as quickly healed. I am now on the edge of the seat mode all the time with the kids hoping they don't hurt themselves that bad again. I'm sure with more time this will pass but you have NO IDEA how traumatic and awful the experience was watching him get the stitches. It was heartbreaking.

This weekend is freezing and I mean literally freezing. Freezing drizzle all Sat. and this morning everything is covered in white and it's an ice rink out there. Ben and I decided it's a great day to stay inside and relax if that's possible with three kids. So far so good. Kids are coloring and playing,Aiden napping, Ben is watching football and I get a moment to blog so this day is a success so far. It's nice having a weekend to relax and not do much, so I don't really have alot to blog about though so this post seems a little boring but in my life boring is GOOOOOD!!

Aiden's 6th months already.... where has time gone!

Well time is flying by and Aiden is growing up so quickly. I am trying to steal a few minutes to do these updates as this sometimes is the only way I'll be able to look back to remember things to put in the baby book. Aiden is still a happy go lucky baby who warms anyone ones heart that he comes in contact with. His smile is just contagious, that has become very obvious as he even makes grown grumpy men smile!

Where Aiden is now:

*sitting up really well now all by himself

*very good with his hands, he can rake and grasp anything and everything

*he loves moms hair and glasses not to mention any time of jewelry

*Rolls both ways

*still holding at 2 bottom teeth but I think he is working on some more

*has started holding and trying to sip out of his sippy cup

*likes to try and drink out of mom or dads glass if he can wrangle it close enough

*gets on his tummy and pushes up with his arms and tries to scoot forward (gosh I'm not ready for him to crawl yet)

*still sleeping well, we have woken up a few times at 3am or 5am last week which mom was not so happy about but overall doing great in the sleep department

*napping well when we can get on schedule

*eating almost all solids now.... did have a eczema rash after we tried pears so holding off on that for a while

*lights up when his brothers come around

*is cooing and babbling...I swear there's been a mama in there a few times

*loves to snuggle in my neck and give open mouth slobbery kisses which is mommies favorite

*we go to the Dr. at the end of the month so will fill in weight and height and such after but at last weigh in on 25th of Sept. he was 21.6lbs. So excited what he'll be at almost 7months

He's growing fast and continues to be a joy to our family. We love our little Adde!!

Ryan had one BAD week

I have to say I am happy to have last week behind us and a new week ahead. I am bound and determined to have a great week this week. I vow to be positive and happy no matter what comes my way. Last week was just a bit to stressful and for my heart and sanity sake I pray not to have another like it for some time to come.

If you haven't heard yet we had multiple injuries happen last week to our sweet little Ryan. It started on Wed. when Ryan poked his eye and lacerated his eyeball. I about had a mini heart attack when this took place as you can imagine but I think that was just a little something to prepare me for what was to come next. Sat. morning we were enjoying a fantastic morning at the lake, fishing,throwing rocks sticks,exploring, you know all the things little boys love to do. We left the lake and headed to the Bean Bandit. It's a Mexican food place with a funny name and the boys were excited to go there because it sound funny. Everyone was starving and ready to eat so got everyone out of the car and took about 6 steps from the car when I turned around to check on where Ryan was and then it happened. Ryan was into putting his hands into his pocket that morning and he had them in them again heading into the restaurant. Well he tripped while walking in the parking lot and with his hands in his pocket he couldn't catch himself and down he went with only his face to take the hit. Ben and I turned just as he was going down and I screamed and ran to try and catch him but Ben and I were not fast enough as he hit. I knew when he hit we were heading to the ER. His face was bloody from his nose, lips and most of all his sweet chin. We immediately put a cloth on his chin and when we took it off to take a peak I about feel over. A gash an inch long with skin just hanging down. Yikes, it was gross! We loaded everyone back in the car and raced for the closest ER/Urgent care. 4 hours later they stitched him up an d what a nightmare that was. He was great up until that point. He never complained once and even curled up with daddy on the bed and took a nap. That nap however was interrupted by us waking him up to start the procedure which was NO FUN!! 4 nurses held him down with Ben holding his little head. The poor kid went ballistic is all I can say. They said they numbed the site but didn't seem that way to me. I was a wreck and could do nothing to take away his pain which was heartbreaking. Thankfully they got the 4 stitches in after 6 tries and I was able to hold him again and calm him down. Ryan is now doing well, a little cranky today but that's to be expected. He has a sore chin,and a bum eye, one can accept a little crankiness.
So if you see little Ryan don't be alarmed. He has a bloodshot eye, a swollen bruised nose with 2 large scabby scrapes, and a bandage covering his stitches. Yes, he is a mess but he is all my mess and I love every inch, bruise and gash. I just hope and pray nothing like this happens again.

Larry

Are you wondering who Larry is? Well, Larry is from the movie Night at the Museum. Ryan has been obsessed with this movie since he first saw it over a year ago but lately he has been big into pretending and using his imagination. He use to carry a flashlight, manual and keys around saying he was Larry but he has kicked it up a notch in that now he wants to be addressed as Larry, NOT Ryan. When he is playing he just jumps into character sometimes which just cracks me up. We were out today and a woman asked him his name and I about feel over when he said "My name is Larry!" I of course giggled and told him to tell her his real name which of course was not Ok with him as he was playing "LARRY". I proceeded to try and explain to which she just laughed. So now I have 4 sons, Keaton, Ryan,Aiden and good ole Larry!!

Beaming with Pride

Ryan had his first week in preschool this week and it was a success! He loves school and is such a cutie. I picked him up today and he rushed to me and said "I love you mommy, I had a great day!" Music to mommies ears, he loves me,missed me but had a great time. He talked all day long about his new friends and what he did at school. I'm so happy for him as he's coming out of his little shell and becoming such a big boy. Ryan has always been in Keaton's shadow but he sure is shining on his own now and I am so proud of him.

Their back....we're NOT!

Well if you happen to stop over you would immediatley notice who is feeling 100% and who is not. I'm sure you probly guessed already but yes, Keaton and Ryan are back to their old selves once again. Please don't get me wrong I am so happy that they are feeling better but unfortunatly Ben,Aiden and I are still not 100%. We have nose and chest congestion still which just seems to be slowing us down and making dealing with the kids a bit more tiring. This mommy is TIRED people and the flu bug better take a hike far from our house or else!!

On going!

Now I'm sick, and poor little Aiden has a horrible cough. This has really been a mean sick bug and it's hanging on for dear life on my poor family. Keaton is back in school with Dr. ok and both Keat and Ryan are on meds. I was hoping to avoid getting it but Aiden and I are about at the same point of it so we'll suffer together. Poor little Ryan still not feeling well with a horrible cough and congestion. Please god give us the strenght to beat this as I'm pulm worn out!!

Still fighting the bug!

What a long 4 days it's been and it still goes on. Keaton is moving at least now but still not feeling great. His cough is awful and his throat scratchy. He barely has a voice and the poor guy stayed put on the couch most of the day. Now Ryan is fighting a fever,and the cough is setting in. He was the most active today so hoping he'll kick it fast as it doesnt seem as bad so far as it was with Keaton. Thankfully so far Aiden is just dealing with a runny nose but we'll see what tomorrow brings. He's a bit more cranky than usual so we'll see. Ben and I feel bad for them as they really don't feel good and there's not alot we can do but some TLC,soup and hugs. Telling myself tomorrow will be a better day and everyone will be back to normal. It's good to be positive right! Now lets just hope that's the case as this mommy is worn out.

One should NEVER forget

Today is one of those days that one should take a moment or a step back to remember how lucky we for our lives we live and the great men and women who defend our freedoms. I will never forget where I was 8 years ago when I first found out the planes had hit. I was in my third grade classroom at Cleveland Elementary. A co-worker came and whispered it to me and my heart sank and worry set in. Here I was in the midst of all these innocent children who knew nothing of such horrible acts but would be made at such an early age to hear and learn that people could be so evil. I will never forget how all the staff that day came together to pray and support each other as it was such an emotion rollercoaster from the moment we found out and for many days and months after. We were on a lock down that day for the remainder of the day and on alert many days after. Never in my life time had I been that nervous or scared of the unknown. I was so proud of my country for coming together and rising above the evil that took so many innocent lives that day. No matter where one was that day, life changed and I will never forget. I thank all those men and women serving in Afganistan and Iraq and all over the world for their service and protection and to all their love ones who scarifice so much for us, especially those who's loved one will not becoming home. I honor you all for you are what makes America beautiful. For those of you who lost your loved ones to the attacks I promise I will NEVER forget!

Oh NO!!

Not to much time to write as I have 2 sick kiddos. We have the sick bug at our house and mommy and daddy are not so thrilled. Yesterday Keat complained of a scratchy throat and said it was a little sore so I kept him home from school as all the H1N1 stuff. I didnt want to be that parent who sent her kid in sick and got everyone else sick. Well good thing I kept him as midday he had a fever, very sore throat and horrible cough. He was up last night several times very upset with the sore throat and ended up sleeping on the coach. This morning fever not so high but still miserable. Still in the same spot on the couch so that tells you he doesnt feel well right there. Sadly not Aiden's nose has begun to run which is a VERY bad sign. I am crossing fingers he doesnt get what Keaton has as that scares me because he's so little. I'll keep ya updated.

LOVE YOU RYAN, HAVE A GREAT FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Aiden 5 month update

Little Aiden is already 5months old and such a sweet little baby. I am so blessed to have him as my son. He has such a great smile that he seems to flash most of the time and it just melts my heart. Here is a little update on what he's doing right now.

*Holding his head up VERY strong

*Rolling over

*Sitting up all by himself pretty steady now

*He has 2 bottom teeth which came in at the same time, was in pretty good spirits while they came in. He was VERY drooly and on the last 2 days he was a little cranky but overall he was a trooper. His beautiful pearly whites pooped thru on August 28th.

*Loves his exersaucer and jumperoo

*Now that his teeth are in he is napping great again, morning nap of 1 to 3 hours and afternoon 1-2 hours.

*still a great night sleeper. He has been sleeping thru the night since 8weeks from 8pm till 7am. We are truly blessed!

*Aiden has graduated from the carrier car seat to his convertible back facing car seat as of Sept. 6th. He was to big for his seat, legs hanging off seat and over the 20lb weight limit.

*Loves his brothers and grins from ear to ear when Keaton and Ryan come around.

*Very good grasping reflexes. Holds his toys well and passes from hand to hand. Oh not to mention he LOVES grabbing my hair!!

*Is starting to be chatty and he said "MA, MA" tonight!!!!

*Eating solids really well and is a great eater.

Solids we have tried thus far:

rice cereal

oatmeal cereal

applesauce

carrots

sweet peas

*Wearing size 12month clothes

*Growing lots of light hair

Overall Aiden is right on track and such a blessing.

Ryan's ALMOST a BIG SCHOOL BOY

Little Ryan has been begging to go to school since Keaton started and yesterday was a big day for him but also a tease. Yesterday was meet the teacher conference and see his classroom day. It lasted close to 30min. and when it was time to leave he was so sad. Needless to say Ryan is more than ready to go to school and yesterday only gave him a taste and now he is just plain annoyed that he still hasn't started school and to be honest so is mommy. Preschool at Holy Apostles has always started the 1st week in Sept. and when I signed Ryan up in Feb. the start date was still the beginning of Sept. but somewhere over the summer they changed it to the official start date of the 15th. Oh and just to annoy me a bit more they are making us pay for the full month even though they are only going half the month. I love the school and I hope this isn't a precursor to what the year is going to be like with a bunch of changes. The school was great the way it was I hope it stays on track. Anyways, back on topic. Ryan has worn his backpack everywhere we go and even now is putting snack in his lunch bag and bring that everywhere. It's so darn cute yet sad as he is waiting so patiently and it seems to be taking forever to get here.

We met his teacher who is fantastic and her assistant is someone that knew Keaton and I from previous years so that was really nice. She has know Ryan since he was 17 months old or so and she is so sweet so it will be nice to have he in there with Ryan. So cross your fingers that all this excitement and eagerness stays with us for the real big day because Ryan is going to be a BIG BOY going to school and mommy will be so proud but a bit sad. Time maybe dragging for Ryan but is flying by for mommy. The boys are growing up so fast and I just am trying to take it all in.

I hit the Jack Pot!!

For some strange reason it just really hit me today that I am a mother of THREE and on top of that THREE BOYS!!! Not sure why this hasn't seem so crazy before but for some reason this weekend it sank in. Wow I have 3 beautiful, healthy little boys and I couldn't be more happy about it. So many keep asking "Aren't you going to have just one more?" The answer is going to be NO folks. I will not be having any more babies myself, I sealed the deal on that and there is no going back. Ben and I have entertained one day adopting a child that really needs a home but that too is off in the future. For now we are a family of 5. I have endless laundry, messes to clean, fights to break up and oh not to mention more hugs and kisses to give and get than one could ask for. I'm one lucky chick to be surrounded by so many boys. So NO we DIDN'T get the girl but what I DID GET was 3 amazing boys and when I look at them I know that I wouldn't want them to be anything other than what and who they are. Keaton with a bow and pink on makes me giggle. Boys ROCK and I hit the jackpot all the way around!!

Time to get busy and get my life under control!!

OK, so with three kids and a husband my life has gotten to the point where I am becoming crazy with trying to get organized and keep this house under control. So I am laying out here today all the things I need to accomplish this week. I hoping by Sunday I can look at my list and cross everything off but knowing my life that's a pipe dream but one can try. So here's this weeks list.

1.) Go thru all toy bins and pitch or re-organize toys (the boys have things everywhere they don't belong!)
2.) Go thru my master closet and get rid of everything I don't wear and then have someone pic up or drop off immediately, also reorganize closet better for summer and winter wear.
3.) Go thru Aidens closet and pull clothes he's outgrown and pull out clothes he will be wearing for winter. Get Emma over here to take some of the 0-6month stuff so it's gone.
4.)Make a new Halloween bin for all our costumes and junk we are collecting so it's easier to find stuff.
5.)Clear out a better cabinet for Ben's liquor that he's collecting on my back kitchen counter.
6.)Paint main floor powder room
7.) Make Keaton site word flash cards and memory game
8.) Get kids pictures taken
9.) Start work on photo albums

OK, I think that's enough for now as the list could go on and on. I'm tired thinking about it all but it has to be done for my sanity. Now if I can get Ben to pitch in to help!!

In the bowl, PLEASE!!!

OK, I just don't get it!!!! I don't have a pee pee like a boy but REALLY.... Is it impossible to get the pee in the toilet guys, really. I have 2 boys and 1 man that use one of the 4 bathrooms at any given time and for some reason I always seem to find pee somewhere that is not in the toilet bowl. Yes, people I know this post is not yummy but neither is cleaning 4 toilets daily let alone what my morning has been like today. This morning has been bathroom HELL. Ryan who I love very much is on his last leg with me today. He has proceeded to get pee on the floor twice all before noon. I was mopping the bathroom for the first time at 7:30am and again at 10am. I don't think he is tucking when he sits to do his business and hence pee seems to finds it's way out. I am frustrated and DONE mopping for the day so all I have to say is "Boy's you better find away to control that thing or else! Ugh, I need a nap or better yet a housekeeper!!

Melt DOWN!!!!!

This morning was just plain painful and I hope we NEVER REPEAT the rest of the year!!! Keaton was a bit of a bear last night so we put him to bed year all the while he was exclaiming "I'm not tired, I want to stay up all night!!" We'll he was singing a different tune this morning when I woke him up for school. Now he is whining and crying " I am SOOOO tired, I just want to sleep all day, I don't want to go to school!" As things went it was like pulling teeth getting him downstairs for breakfast and Ben and I had to hold him down to get him dressed. All the while he is yelling " I just want to stay home today with mom and sleep!" I was so caught off guard by all this as he loves school but this morning he was not singing the I love school tune, and he had been and I frazzled before 7am. Needless to say we got him in the car but once at school he walked in glued to my leg and wouldn't let me go at the classroom door. Poor Mrs. Vinchattle had to take him by the hand and lead him in upset. I feel for him as I know the days are long, and he is being such a good boy. He only went to school half days before 3 days a week and not at all the whole summer and now he is going everyday from 8am till 3:30. I know once there in his classroom I'm sure he is doing great and having fun but my heart is sad for my sweet baby. Secretly I just wanted to take him home and snuggle all morning but those morning are on hold he's a big boy now and mama's got help him grow up. :( Hope tomorrow will be better for all.

Can you say CRANKY!!

A quick post on the hubby which I rarely do but I have to share that my husband is one big ball of Cranky/Grumpy this weekend and after sitting down this afternoon thinking about what the hell his problem could be I figured it out!!! Da, Da, Da, Daaaaa..... He is trying to stop smoking cigars and yes folks, I have determined this is his problem. He is in need of a nicotine fix and I don't think the nicoret is doing enough for the mood swings. To make a long story short as not alot of time. Ben use to smoke ciggs, then stopped and smoked a cigar here and there. Well the cigar here and there recently became the second he walked in the door nightly and sometimes then another. He didn't like how much he was smoking again so he decided to stop or at least cut way back. I have to give him props as he's not had one cigar the entire weekend, but boy he's not himself. I will bear with it and hope it gets better or I might have to make him take back up the habit just for the sake of happiness around here. He's short with me, the kids, and is walking
around with a grumpy look. If you know Ben this is NOT normal. So well see what happens! Poor guy, grumpy or not I love his cranky ass so I just hope this passes quickly!! Oh and by the way when I told him I blogged on this he was even more cranky, so support people dont put me under the bus by giving him a hard time or I'll have get you back!!! Ha, Ha!!

Oh and I should mention on a side not of fairness to Ben he also is dealing with an eye problem that is causing him pain, not sure what is up with his beautiful hazel eyes but I think he may be heading to the eye Dr. to check it out. Poor baby!!! Even his eyes want to smoke!!! (Bad Joke)

He's off and he doesnt look back

Wed. the 12th was Keaton's first day of Kindergarten and I can admit I was more nervous than he was. I had been nervously planning for weeks to make sure he had everything he needed. Shoes, the right school uniform shirts, shorts and pants, supplies, book bag, lunch box ect... but what I wasn't planning for was how I felt after walking him to his classroom and watching him sit in his little seat with his name tag and seeing that he really is a BOY, not a little boy but a big boy. My heart was so happy and proud yet so sad at the same time as I know this is the beginning of him really growing up and the years will fly by now and most of the days will be spent with someone else teaching him now. Yes, I know people let go be I just have to mourn for a moment that we have closed a chapter and opened a new one for just a bit. He'll always be my baby and I couldn't be more proud of him.

Wed. morning was long anticipated and finally it arrived. Keaton got up, ate his cereal, got dressed, put his shoes on, took some pictures out front for crazy ole mom and then we were off for the start of his school career. The area around the school was a mess, cars EVERYWHERE and people EVERYWHERE. We managed to find a parking spot and made the trek into the school. Snapped some pictures outside the school for crazy old moms sake and found his classroom. Mrs. Vanchittles room was a bit crazy, as she said NO parents in the room, just kiss and go but from the look of it NO ONE listened. Poor teacher, she will have her hands full if these parents cant listen to the first things she said. Anyways. I got Keaton in the door, snapped a shot of him at his desk, gave a big smooch and love you then turned to go and when I looked back he was already into the activity on the desk and chatting to a classmate! No tears from him, not even a look back to see me go. I knew he was ready but really not even a glance back!!! Ha!
I picked him up at 3:30pm and he said "I had a great day and Loved it!" Yeah!!

The second day went just as great except he told me he didn't want the day to end! Hm mm... am I becoming chopped liver here???? Once home last night however he was EXHAUSTED from the day and boy was he in some rare form. We had some major melt downs and had him in bed by 7:15pm. Once in bed and finally done with a crying spell he asked "Mom, why did you put me in full days, I don't get to spend any time with you now, I miss you and want to spend time with you too!" My heart filled with happiness and sadness as he did miss me but sadness that I miss him too and our time together is cut very short now during the weekdays but I told him we would make after school our time together and weekends would be great. He liked that and finally went to sleep.

Third day of school underway today and I miss him alot, however Ryan really misses him. He keeps asking where he is and why he is there. Ryan is next to start school the beginning of Sept. so stay tuned for more of my sob stories.

Holy Big Boy

A little behind on my post but better late than never is my modo lately. Aiden had his 4month well visit last Wed. and the boy is a whopping 18.6 lbs, and 27 inches long. For some comparison for those of you who need one Keaton was 15 lbs and Ryan 15 lbs and both older boys were 26 and some change at 4 months. Aiden is one big, healthy boy.

Here's some of the things he's up to right now:
He can hold his head up on his own (not so much a bobble head)
Starting to hold himself up better in a sitting position and can do so by himself for several minutes
Grunting, Groaning,Cooing, giggling, and smiling like crazy
Completely aware of his hands and feet and usually has at least one fist in his mouth at all times
Teething and drooling like crazy... one bottom tooth will be here soon as mommy can see some white now
Grasping Objects with his hands (especially my hair), loves chewing on and manipulating toys, especially one that make music and noise
Swatting at objects intentionally and loves to play in his exersaucer and make the toys move
Blowing raspberries and bubbles
Smiling and Laughing , very ticklish
He can lift up off his chest and fully extended his arms and roll from tummy to back really well and getting better at back to tummy
Sleeping 8 to 10 hours straight a night...for some reason recently we are having trouble napping but mommy is working on this
Hates the car seat and will be moving to the big Britax Convertible soon as he's about out of the carrier already
Loves to be kissed on his big fat cheeks
Loves his swing and has discovered his feet while swinging so trying to eat them I believe
Spits up less and less thank god!!
Wearing 6-12 months pants and 6-12month tops
Has started eating baby rice cereal for dinner and doing really well

Overall Aiden is doing GREAT and is a blessing. He is the happiest baby and everyone who meets him can't believe how happy the little guy is which warms my heart and reminds me of how lucky I really am.

Now it's daddy vs.2 boys on his own!!

Just spoke to Ben this morning and they had a great night sleep, NO BEARS made an appearance at there campsite so this mommy can breath a sigh of relief. They were eating breakfast and Keaton once again throwing the forest onto the fire!!! Nothing has changed since I left I guess!! What fun for them, their first real camping trip with daddy in the Rocky Mountains, they survived the night but will daddy survive the morning and afternoon with the two of them. That is more of a test of Man vs. Wild if you ask me!!

Man and 2 boys vs. Wild

I think I've lost my mind or I'm turning into my grandmother or something. Today was the big camping trip in the mountains that the boys have been SOOOOO excited about. We got up early this morning. Put all the last minute things in the car. Strapped the kids in their seats and headed out for the great mountains of Colorado to do "Man vs. Wild" as Keaton stated. We spent the day at Manitou Lake where where grilled lunch, fished, chased chipmunks,hiked and relaxed. It was a great day really, even with 3 kids and one being only 4months and in my arms the entire time. By 4pm we headed to the campsite where Ben set up the tent, and camp. We grilled dinner, the boys collected everything they could find for the fire and proceeded to have the campfire like a inferno until we had to put a stop to the massive amounts of pine needles and sticks they were throwing in there. We sat around the fire,relaxed and had marshmallows as the sun went down. I sadly then packed up Aiden and I as it was time for us to head back home for the night. Sadly our tent wasn't going to fit 5 and Aiden really did need to get home to his crib as the poor kid hadn't slept the entire day. Just as I was getting ready to go the campers next to us came over to share that the ranger had been there earlier in the day warning them to put everything food wise in the car as there has been some bears in the area. This of course made me freak out...BEARS!!! I had to keep my fears to myself as not to scare the kids. I didn't want to leave them of course as I never do but here I am at home and missing them all like crazy. When there here I feel like I need a break but when their gone it just to quiet, plus I worry like crazy about them being out there in the WILDERNESS WITH BEARS! They are the loves of my life and i just cant wait till their all back here with me and Aiden and most of all not where the bears are!! I guess I'll go to sleep now so I dont think about it and have my stomach in knots like I do now.

Already 4 months old and he's one happy guy!!

I am long overdue for share some pictures of Aiden. He is growing and changing so quickly and I cant believe he is 4 months old today. He is such a happy go lucky baby and we are blessed that he has such a great temperament. Out of the 3 boys he is the most laid back yet. His smile lights up a room and anyone around cant help but smile too.

He is grasping toys and loves chewing on anything he can get his grip on and get to his little mouth. Looking in the mirror is super fun right now and sticking his little tongue out has been a hit for a few weeks now. He is gradually getting use to sitting in his exersaucer and likes it even more now that he has figured out how to swivel around, and that he can make things move and yes, chew on stuff. I guess if you haven't figured it out yet he is teething up a storm. One day last week he just started gnawing on his little hand and drooling up a storm and it's only gotten worse since. Overall he has taken teething in stride however today he is fighting taking a nap, and keeps pulling off when he's feeding so I think his teeth are really bothering him. We are blessed that Aiden has been a great sleeper since about 8weeks. He began sleeping from 9am till 5am and that has remained pretty much his normal. Some nights recently he goes down earlier and some morning sleeps in later but I have NOTHING to complain out in the sleep department at night. Thank you Aiden baby!!

Overall I am a blessed mommy with 3 healthy, beautiful boys. I am taking the time lately to enjoy and document my days and their growth as it's going by so quickly. Aiden is wearing 9month to 12month clothes, he can sit up by him self for short periods of time already and he will be starting solids before I know it. My heart gets heavy knowing he is my last baby, don't get me wrong it's good we are done but these times with such a wonderful,sweet blessing like Aiden are so special and they just go by to quickly. I wish I could bottle up all of it so I never could forget a thing.

Just to clear up a few things!

OK, Just a quick explanation about my rant and rave post so no one think I am going off the deep end. I was just blowing off some steam about some people I've come across lately who are not being real, I know they are full of SH** as I talk to them but they keep feeding me and others what they think we will find impressive. I really felt good after expressing my be real rant and that was that. Not mad at anyone per say, just annoyed!! Don't worry for those good friends, I am not close to these few people so please don't think it was directed at any of you.

Settled in

Well it's been 14 weeks (I think, I keep losing track) since Aiden was born and the first few weeks to be very honest were HELL with my spinal leak, but I can say that things are going GREAT now. I think we are settled in and I am finally use to having 3 kids to watch over, take care of, clean up after and ect.... I have to admit at times it's just NOT easy and I don't know how moms of more than three do it as I know how much work 3 kids that are 5,3 and 3 months is and it's exhausting. It may be a lot of work but I've decided It's pretty darn crazy but amazing. All my kids are healthy so I have not one things to complain about. Aiden is the easiest kid of the three and he's just such a great kid. He is smiley and just giggles all the time. Ryan is funny and curious. He does funny things all day long and has a HUGE imagination. Keaton is fiery and independent, oh and TO SMART FOR HIS OWN GOOD!! The older boys love one another and are great friends but cause lots of ruckus around the house, chasing one another, wrestling, egging one another on and of course getting on each others nerves to the point that someone cries or is screaming. Oh there is NEVER a DULL moment around here and I don't expect that it will get any calmer when Aiden get in the mix but at least I now feel like I can handle things. We have a routine, I am not freaked out about taking 3 kids to a restaurant, or grocery shopping and I just have found a way to enjoy the chaos that is my life. So if you see me or talk to me and I seem frazzled, well I probably am at that moment as I have alot of those moments to be honest but know that all in all we are good and I wouldn't change a thing.

Peace!

Hmmm.... I don't know what to do with myself right now. Why do you ask? Well for the simple fact it's peaceful and there's not a sound other than the AC running. Now how can that be? Well I owe it all to my wonderful sister in law Jen who just picked my 2 older boys up to go to Barnes and Nobles for a little outing. Personally I think she may have lost her mind and if not before she probably will have after with my two boys. It sure was nice of her to do this for me and I will have to think of something nice to pay her back as she deserves it. Baby Aiden is napping and I've put away laundry and as I was picking up the basement I couldn't help but just sit in the chair for a second and take in the silence. I love the boys but they are BUSY bodies,and loud. To have such peace is amazing but secretly I miss them (just a little bit).

Enough bull**** be real please !

OK, I have to get this off my chest some people just drive me CRAZY!! There I said it, I do get annoyed and lately it's at people who try and make it seem like they have no problems in life, their kids are perfect all the time, their house is never messy and they always have time for themselves, so hence they have time to shop for home, self and not to mention haircuts, manicures,pedicures, spa dates ect.... and on and on. Be real people parenting is hard work and it's OK to admit it. I'm admitting it right now, I feel like I never have enough time in the day to do a darn thing, my house feels forever messy no matter how much I work at it, I have kids who work against me!!! I know you will all be so surprised but my kids can be BRATTY and drive me CRAZY on most days. As for time for myself what is that. I try and carve some out but that's easier said than done. Maybe I am being grumpy, but I am a mom of 3 with a new baby so spare me your perfect parenting and wife garble. Maybe you are but I am in NO mood to hear it right now. OK, I got it out!!

Walkin once again

Well it's hard to find anytime for me lately but I am making the effort to go walking after dinner with my neighbor and I think it's a much needed stress reliever not to mention it will help melt off the baby weight I am still trying to shed. I gained 32 lbs this past pregnancy and I've now lost 30lbs of it but to be honest I needed to lose some before i even got pregnant so walking I will go. I've also started my exercise video so well see what happens. Now that I am done having babies I can get myself into the best shape of my life right!! Easy to say now I have to do the hard work to make it happen. I'll keep you posted on my progress!!

The boys are Campin!!

So have to do a quick post since my heart is just so full right now it could explode so might as well let it explode into words right!! Right now my 2 oldest and my wonderful husband are laying in their tent in the back yard talking about the favorite part of their day, yes you read that right in our backyard in a tent. For sometime Ben has said he couldn't wait to take the kids camping and 2 of the 3 are finally at an age where that's possible. Before he headed to the great mountains with 2 boys and a tent he wanted to try it out first and what better place than our BACKYARD!! He went out earlier today and got some new sleeping bags, a new fire pit/charcoal grill and stuff for smores and he and the boys were so excited about it getting dark and camping out. Of course around 6ish a terrible storm with crazy rain and wind blew in and tried to detour the whole plan but the boys are lucky enough to have a daddy who was a boy scout and a little rain wasn't changing his plans. Luckily the rain passed and the night continued on with out a hitch. Ben was doing this with or without the rain so thankfully it was without the rain as the night was fantastic. The boys set up the tent with dad, started the fire, roasted mellows and made smores. They had fun walking around the backyard with flashlights and looked for bugs and making shadows. It's now almost 10:30 pm and I just left them all tucked in their bags in the tent talking about the favorite part of their day, like they do each night before bed. I truly am blessed to have such a wonderful family that gets to do such fun stuff. I hope that these times and memories will be treasured by the boys as they truly are treasured my me. Like I said my heart is so full of love right now for ALL my BOYS. Oh, by the way I am truly the queen as I was told I was not allowed in the tent but I could sleep in my house in my cozy bed cuz I am a GIRL!! Boy, oh Boy!!

All giggles

Aiden is not yet 3months but looks like a 6 to 9month old. He's just one big guy. He's growing up so quick and I just wish he would slow down just a bit for ole mom as it's just all going by so fast lately and mommy just wants her baby to stay a baby for as long as possible. Yes, I know he's not even 12 weeks yet but time just seems to be flying by and since this is my LAST baby I am trying to treasure each and every moment. Aiden has been smiling since 7weeks or so and I got a giggle once or twice but just recently we are all smiles and giggles and that laugh is just adorable. I will try and catch it on video to share and melt some more hearts. For now here's a pic of him laughing and smiling. He's such a sweetheart!

So in love!!

Sometimes in life we get so busy we forget to stop and be thankful for all the little things and even sometimes the big stuff. Recently life has been that busy for us but over the last few days I have just been so overcome with how lucky I truly am. I am the wife of a wonderful husband and a Mommy to 3 amazing, beautiful little boys.
Keaton has grown so much over the last 5 years, it's almost more than my mind can wrap around. He is a little man now, independent, head strong and so VERY smart. I will never forget how small and helpless he was when they laid him on my chest the minutes after he was born. I was so scared of what was to come, how would we love, and care for this amazing little boy. He was OURS but neither of us new the amazing journey we would be taking from the moment of his birth. Keaton was the start of our amazing life and family and he was our test case I guess you could say. I was so worried and determined not to damage or screw him up in anyway. I think Ben and I have done a pretty good job so far as here we are 51/2years later and he is just AMAZING what he has become.
I always new I wanted at least 2 children and when we found out Ryan was growing inside me I was over the moon. If he was anything like his brother I knew we were going to be blessed. What I didn't know was that I am grateful that he is like his brother in many ways but even more blessed that he is just RYAN BENJAMIN a wonderful little boy all his own. Ryan came out into the world with a cry and a deposition that has become just him, it's still much the same as when he was a baby. He is laid back, observant, serious, very loving, yet stubborn and just all boy. He has become my boys, boy in that he LOVES to get dirty, he LOVES puddles and mud and has been known to paint himself with chalk, mud, paint, ect..... Ryan has done something that I thought would be hard to do in the shadow of his big brother and that it Shine BRIGHTLY and make our hearts burst with pride and love every moment.
A mother worries always but of course I was so worried how I would find the ability to love a third child,when I found I was pregnant with our third and beloved son. How would I survive being a mom of three active little boys, where would the love and patience come from for another child? Well I should have never worried because the moment Aiden began his journey out into this world I was in love. The long labor and the end result of Aiden Alexander on my chest so purple and not crying and labored breathing scared me to death and I never knew I could be so in love and need something so much. When I heard him finally crying and saw his beautiful skin turn pink I knew there was no turning back. God gave me my angle and he is our beautiful Aiden. Aiden may only be 11 weeks but he is forever ours. My heart is more full now than it's ever been, I couldn't imagine a day without our sweet Aiden, he is a wonderful baby. He has such a wonderful deposition, in that he is so laid back, and even tempered. As long as he's feed, dry and getting some naps and snuggle time he is a happy guy. I just can wait to see how he grows and changes over the next few months and years. If he's anything like his brothers I will be truly bless.
So even when my house is crazy and kids screaming and my head spinning because the boys are driving me out of my mind I have to stop myself and remember that these times with my boys are special. On the other hand I have to take each wonderful moment that I get to watch my sons grow and learn something new, grownEveryday is a memory and a day in their amazing little life that is making them who they will be when they grow up one day and go out into the big crazy world. Time goes fast that one day can never be redone, so enjoy it for whatever it shall bring.
In short being a mom of three boys and amazing husband is not always easy but one thing that it is always is a journey and a blessing. Most of all I wouldn't change one single thing, my life is all I could ever hope for an more. I am truly blessed and SO IN LOVE with all my boys!!!

Keaton's first loose tooth!!

So tonight was a big day with T-ball and Circus and to top it off Keaton shared with us that he has a loose tooth. We were brushing teeth tonight and I told him I was giving his teeth a good going over after all that Cotton candy and he said "sure mom you can brush my teeth too but please careful of my front lower tooth as it's sore. " I of course asked why it was sore and he let me feel it and sure enough it's LOOSE!!! I of course got a bit emotional as my first born baby is no longer a baby as he's beginning to lose his baby teeth now. Time is just flying by and I can do nothing to stop it and it makes me sad. Keaton was so happy and said"I'm so excited because now I will put my tooth when it falls out under my pillow and he will leave me a quarter!!!" It was just precious seeing such innocence and joy on his face talking about the tooth fairy. Ben was just thankful he only expects a quarter!!! Ha, Ha!!
I think it's funny it's lose right before we go to the dentist on Tues. Now I just pray the rest of his teeth DON'T have cavities!! Ill have to post and let you know when it finally falls out and post a pic. he will look so different missing a tooth. Oh, I love you Keat slow down for mommy will ya!!!

Circus, Circus

Ben has been loading us up with things to do this summer and one of those things was he got us Circus tickets. Now to some this would not be a surprise but if you know Ben like I do it is not normal, I haven't been able to get Ben to go to the State fair for the entire time that I have known him and any other year I have mentioned the Circus he claimed he didn't hear me or would ignore the idea so I am VERY happy he did it all on his own and he was actually excited to go with the boys and oh yes, he did have a GREAT time with us all!! Our summer has started out with so many fun activities thus far, we sure our lucky!!

Keaton and Ryan were over the moon all Friday and Sat. morning. The boys had T-Ball games all Sat. morning so after all the nutty, chaotic, funny mess of T-ball we headed for the 3:30pm show and it was alot of fun. Keaton and Ryan sat with a huge smile on their faces and it was priceless. They only got dad to buy a $12 bag of cotton candy (which he is pretty bitter about) and didn't ask for anything else thankfully. Not that Ben or I would have gotten it if they did anyway. The toys and ect.... started at $18!! Yay, right.... NOT THANK YOU!! I was proud of little Aiden as he snuggled with me so well and watched the show and then ate off and on. I would have never attempted to go to the circus with a 10week old previously but I guess when it come to the third you just get over it and life has to continue on and you make sure it does with lots of fun.

Oh and just a cute funny while at the circus. In front of our seats was another couple with a girl baby about 4 months and Keaton says to me and her mommy. "She is cute mommy, maybe Aiden can date her when he gets older!!!" What????? To funny, that my 5 year old is thinking about setting his younger brother up already. Hmmmm, I think I am in trouble!!
Over all a great day!!!

My little Ryan turned 3!!

Lately time is flying by and I am in awe at how fast my boys are growing and changing!! This past weekend we celebrated Ryan's 3rd birthday with a dinosaur party and we had a blast. As many know Ryan is really into dinosaurs so all he wanted for his birthday was a dino party and I was glad to grant this birthday wish. We had the bouncy house up, games with water balloons, squirt guns, frosting of dino sugar cookies and ect.... we ate burgers,dogs and watermelon and just had a good ole time. Ryan was over the moon with all his favorite people and dinos everywhere. I of course had a great time too but I get a little sentimental knowing that my sweet little boy is growing sooo fast. I guess I could still have some hormonal stuff going on but thinking about my boys growing up makes me sad. Ryan is growing into such a cute little man and Ben and I just adore him so much. He can now count to 7 (verbally and on his little fingers), he knows his sounds to his letters,his colors and is fully potty trained and wearing only big boy undies. He will start preschool this fall and i probably will need a box of tissue as I leave. Thankfully Keaton will have me broken in first with starting Kindergarten.

9 weeks ..... Where has time gone??

Time has just been flying by and little Aiden is already 9weeks old. We have finally stayed out of the hospital for several weeks now so we are thrilled and have been able to get back in the swing of things if that's really possible with a new little one who runs the show!! We had a recent trip to the Dr. and the little man is growing big and fast. He's already 13.6lbs and 25inches long with a size 16.5in head!! HE got 5 shots which of course was NOOOOO fun, but he took it like a champ as long as he got his beloved boobie right after!!!
Needless to say he is growing ahead of the curve and we couldn't be more happy that he is healthy and doing well. As you can see by the stats he LOVES to eat and that's what he would do ALL day if I let him, but the Dr. said it was normal and feed on demand still so the breastfeeding madness,marathon continues but luckily he is slowing down a little bit!!!
As for sleep we are getting a little here and there and he has thrown us a life line the last few nights of sleeping 3 1/2hrs then feeding 3 hours and then up every hour till 6. Need to work on the last part of the night, however we are grateful for the consecutive hrs of sleep as it's much improvement from the up every hour he was doing for days on end.
One of the most special moments came at about 7weeks and that's when Aiden graced us with his most precious smile. He is such a sweet, smiley baby. He is now smiley and chatted as at 8weeks he started cooing and trying to communicate and it's heart melting. When we were at the Dr. office she couldn't believe how smiley and chatty he was. He was such a flirt with the Dr. even I was taken aback. I think he was trying to charm her into not giving him shots!! To bad it didn't work!!! Aiden's big brothers are still in love with him. They Ohhh and Ahhh over him and are always looking out for poopie diapers and if he's awake. My favorite is that they announce " ohhh, his eyes are open!! Yea!" Things are finally going pretty well and we are excited that the summer is finally here (at least I think it is if it ever stops raining so we can get outside!!).

Overall things are going well and Aiden is a wonderful addition to our family and I am so in love with the little guy. I truly am blessed!!

My boys

Ok, so not much time to blog anymore but going to try and keep a ongoing kid update regularly if possible. I dont want to forget all the wonderful things that are going on right now but so LITTLE time lately.

Keaton:
School: School is out as he graduated from Holy Apostle's Preschool on Tues. (will post pics soon). He did so well and really enjoyed the last 2 years there and we are sad to say goodbye to such wonderful teachers and friends. He will begin Kindergarten in Aug. at Banning Lewis Ranch Academy. He is growing soooo fast.

Keaton played soccer on the YMCA team this spring and LOVED it. It was such a great experience for him and I watched him mature so much over the 6 weeks he practiced and played. I look forward to the fall when he can play on the Fall soccer team. He will start T-ball on June 2nd along with Ryan and it should be just as much fun. I cant wait to see the first practice and game, it should be pretty fun to watch!!! Keaton is really into riding his scooter and bike, I only wish we didn't have a sloped drive as it's a pain.

Ryan:
School: Ryan will begin preschool at Holy Apostle's Preschool in Sept. and is so ready. He wanted to stay with Keaton each time we dropped him off so I just hope he will want to stay when he actually has to.

Ryan is going to start T-Ball on June 2nd and this is his first organized sport so this should be VERY interesting to say the least. He and Keat will be on diff. teams so Ben and I will be going in all directions for the next 6 weeks. Ryan is into learning his alphabet,colors and numbers. He really has his colors down and numbers to seven, we are actively working on letters and he's doing pretty well.

Potty train AGAIN after regressing with Aiden's arrival is going pretty well. I just recently put him in underwear and only allow pull ups at night for bed. He is doing great and I'm thankful there has been only a few accidents. Go Ryan!!

Baby Aiden:
My sweet prince is growing fast and is such a little sweety. He is 10lbs 10oz, 23inches long, he is cooing and smiling like crazy and melting my heart. He has even rolled over from tummy to back (5/20/09). His eyes are still blue so crossing my fingers that he will get my eye color. Just one child with my eyes would be nice. Ben's and boys are beautiful in all but I'd like one blue eyed child!!! Aiden is doing well now after a bacteria infection scare at 5weeks which kept us in the hospital for several day. Thankfully he is doing great now and is growing like a weed. He is a eating machine. He would be at the boob all day if he could but he thankfully his tummy only holds so much so he shows a tad bit of mercy and lets me free. I am cherishing this time as he really is growing way to fast.

Sleep.... What is sleep?

OK, we are settling in and adjustment is going pretty well now that I have gotten rid of the awful migraines from the spinal leak. I have a headache here and there but they are improving so not going to complain to much. The one thing that I am having the hardest adjusting to is NO SLEEP!!! I will give the guy a little credit there's been a night or two that he has done remarkably well sleeping but the last few nights have been rough and I am dragging beyond belief to make it thru the day. He was up almost every hour the last few nights or he would just be awake and want to hang out!!! It's 2am, he's cute and all but I AM TIRED!!!! Last night was awful in that all he wanted to do was Eat, Eat, EAT and EAT SO MORE. My boobs felt like they were going to fall off and my wonderful husband even went and got a bottle and fed him and still was up an hour later wanting more. My sweet son has to be going thru a growth spurt or something as he is a eating machine. Needless to say I was up all night with him and now as I write this he is peacefully sleeping in his swing. I sure wish I had a swing that I could climb in and rock away to dream land. It's funny how one forgets certain things about the birth and the first few months with a newborn, you'd think I would have a clue seeming this is my third child and all but I guess I was blissfully remembering all the warm and fuzzy not the painful and frustrating!!! OK, I've complained enough and have to make sure that I stress I would change things for a minute. I know it will get better but this blog is my outlet and a way for me to look back later to reflect and later when I want another child I will need to revisit this post and remind myself....... WE ARE DONE!!!

Welcome Aiden Alexander Kley

Not a lot of time to write but wanted to do a quick post that we finally have been blessed with our miracle Aiden Alexander on March 29th at 6:25am. He is a nice 8lbs 6oz and 21inches long with a perfectly round head of light redish blonde hair. He is a blessing and I cant stop staring at him and taking in that he is reallly mine. This labor was the longest and hardest of them all but the end result was well worth the long night of labor that I endured. Aiden rounds out our family and mommy now has her 3 sons. I now am looking forward to all the fun we will have as they grow older and become best buds. God is truly amazing is all I can say.

New Pics are posted

I finally got to uploading pics from before Christmas and up to Keaton's Birthday. I still haven't downloaded pics from his party but working on it!!

What color are you mommy?

OK, so yesterday was St. Patrick's day and boy did we have a fun filled day of all things green. First off Ben is part Irish and to help the boy's understand some of their heritage we talked about St. Patrick's Day and where Ireland is and ect.... now one cant go to deep with a 5year old and 2 year old but on the way to preschool Keaton was verifying that he is Irish and Ryan is Irish, and Daddy is Irish, then he got to me. "Mommy are you Irish?????" my response," No , honey I am not.". Keaton, " Well then what color are you mommy, we are all Irish green, what is your color if your not Irish?" I almost peed my pants the way he asked me this question. It was so Innocent and cute. I tried to explain my heritage and this was going no where as he just isn't ready so I just laughed and told him I would have to find out what color I was and get back to him on that!!!!

I am really loving days like yesterday. Despite being huge and uncomfortable I am still trying to do as much fun stuff with the boys as possible and yesterday was one of those day that I just love. We made cupcakes with green frosting,sprinkles and mini-chocolate chips, gold coin wafers. The boys are so much fun to cook with now, Ryan actually participates and is helpful and Keaton is going to be a chef one day as he's so good in the kitchen. I hope days like these build wonderful memories as they grow up.

We had a great St. Patty's Day with family over, I cooked a big thing of corn beef and cabbage and all the fixing's. Others drank some good beer, the kids played outside (thank god for the nice weather), darts and Wii battles were had and a good time was had by all. I am looking forward to next year when I can actually drink some green beer and work in the kitchen with out fighting thru on and off contractions. I'm already looking forward to our 3rd annual St. Patty's Day!!

Keaton the champ!!

Just a quick note on my super big boy Keaty!!!! Keaton had his 5year well visit on Thursday which would be no big deal except for he had to get 4shots which is a very BIG deal to a 5 year old. Keaton did great on the extensive check up this time around. I was impressed how throuh they were on this exam. They really made sure he has reached all milestones and then some. He easily recited his address, knew all the answers to all the other questions she threw at him and passed his first eye exam, but getting all four shots in the legs was the most impressive of all. He laid there not so thrilled and looking pretty scared and unhappy but didn't say much, he groaned and said ouch but other than that NOTHING!! I thought for sure we may have a breakdown but he held up and was a champ.

Side Note, Keaton's legs were sore all that night and boy did he let us know about that. "Ouch, OUCH!!!" Is what we heard ALL NIGHT LONG!! Normally I would let him run after the shots to help with soreness but it was way to cold so we had to deal with the "OUCH" all night. Even with Tylenol he still said they hurt and walked kind of funny. Good thing is all shots are done for awhile for him. He is officially ready for kindergarten!!!

What a week!

OK, so when it rains it pours right? Well I have to agree with that saying as of late. Last week was just one of those weeks which you wonder what and where is everything going so wrong. On Monday evening we noticed Ryan had a red blotch on his left arm as we were getting into the pool but thought it was just a bug bite or something, well we were sadly mistaken as the next morning he had more blotches on his tummy which I immediately could tell that these were HIVES! Ugh, again, we just went through this in Nov. with him. I gave him some Benedryl and thought we'd see improvement but not this time around. THEY GOT WORSE!!! By Wed. morning the poor kid woke up with swollen eyes and blotches covering every part of his body. I of course was mortified and worried. I called the Dr. right away and they said keep the Benedryl coming every 6hrs and I should see some improvement. Well I didn't, Benedryl DIDN'T WORK! Needless to say he ended up at the Dr.'s office on Thurs. where we proceeded to get new meds and pretty much no help in what is causing the outbreaks. I have done food diaries, I have analyzed all soaps and detergents and everything else you can think of so for them to say they didn't know made my head want to fly off. (Have I mentioned that my patience is short lately!!). I can happily say that on Sat. he only had a few and by Sun. they were all cleared up and he is back to his old, clear skinned self. It's puzzling and frustrating to say the least but I am happy he is all cleared up!! The mystery still to be solved!! We have a referral to an allergist now so well see where that takes us.

OK, well like I didn't have enough to deal with with Ryan's hives but leave it to me to get my first head cold of this entire pregnancy!! That's right, I haven't had a cold the whole time until now!!!! The last weeks and I get a stinkin cold. My head is full of gunk, and all I want to do is sleep which does NOT happen in this house so I trod along thru life but am I happy about having a belly the size of china and a head that feels just as big....NO!!!! OK , so I'll stop complaining and move on!! Overall I am just glad the week from hell is over , the hives are gone, Ben's company finally fully merge so no more grumpy, stressed husband, Keaton's sore legs and whining are over and we can begin again all new on this beautiful 70degree day!!!! Yes, it's time to close so I can sit my sick butt outside in the sun and let the sickness bake out of me!!!!

Almost to the finish line!!

Just a quick update on sweet little man growing inside my tummy. We are 34 weeks and counting and very active inside moms belly. My belly is HUGE if you ask me, I have gained very little weight anywhere else but my belly. Yes, I can see it in my face and there is a little here and there but over all I'm ALL BELLY!! I pretty much carried the boys this way too but this time around my belly just feels bigger than ever. Over all I feel good. Mentally I feel great most days this week, but by the mid afternoon and evening I am physically worn out and just want to go to bed by 7pm. I am really excited that the end is near as I am sooooo ready to get my body back and be able to play and run with my boys. I have had a hard time the last weeks feeling guilty that I am just not up to normal self to keep the boys busy enough to keep them out of trouble. My temper is shorter I have noticed and I just don't have the patience I normally do with them so thankfully only a few weeks left (hopefully) and we can move on and get mommy back.

We are about ready for baby #3. A few things left to buy, finish packing a bag and were ready. AT least I think we are. For awhile I was wondering what I was thinking having a third child and another boy at that but I have really embraced my three boys now and cant wait to see where our family is over next years.The boys love each other so much and I am sooo glad we have given them the gift of having siblings and all boys at that. Ryan is really talking now so listening to the boys go back in forth in conversation is just hilarious and heart warming all at once. It will be interesting to see where the new little man fits in later.

I finally am downloading the Christmas pics and hopefully Birthday pics so bare with me.

I can't believe he's 5! Happy Birthday Keaton!!

Time flies by and before you know it your sweet first born is growing up before your eyes and you wonder where the time has really gone. Keaton is 5 years old and such a wonder little boy and my heart just melts when I think back to the moment that he came into this world and I wondered how he be as he grew up. I am finding out and after 5 fast years I can say he's been a joy in our lives that I could never imagine a day without. Happy Birthday my little peanut. We love you so much and look forward to all the adventures and smiles you will share with us over the next years!!

We will celebrate the big 5 with a party at IT'Z Fun Center this Sat. with family and friends. This is the first party mommy has done at a venue instead of home so mommy is a little unsure how any of this will work but all sounds good so well see! I am just to pregnant to have a party at the house this year. This place has a party planner who will set up a room for us, cater to the guest needs and clean up. The kids then get to head off to play games, rides and ect... for an hour after. This place is brand new so I am coping with the germ things that keeps me away from places like Chunky Cheeses and ect... The most important thing is Keaton is SOOOOOO excited and I know he will have a great time.

Will try and post some pics of the party along with all the Christmas pics and more. Boy am I behind these days.

Date wrong or Big boy? That is the question!!

OK so this baby is going to be big I guess or he has gone thru one heck of a growth sprut recently. I am measuring 4 cm to big so thru u/sound last Thurs. it looks like he is very healthy just big so far. I have gained weight on target so not sure what is making this baby so big but at almost 32 weeks he is weighing in at 5lbs 6oz give or take. Yes, that's large. The Dr. thinks my date may be wrong but cant say for sure so I just have to be ready for a baby from mid March on or the possibility that he could be huge and have to be induced or have c-sect. if so. Will know more after next u/sound on 3/5. I sure hope he slows down a little. I'm taking it easy as baby is head down and causing me alot of pain with walking already and some contractions. The pain you endure for your children.

Giddie up horsey

Quick post about my crazy Ryan. Ryan has been making Ben and I laugh lately with his funny and creative imagination. His latest and greatest is his love of his cowboy hat, binoculars and hamper lid. That's right folks my little guy has a great imagination as a clothes basket lid can become the best darn horsey to ride ever. He will ride around the house on his make believe horse with such pride and say "Riding my horsey, Riding my horsey Ye Haw!! Ben and I have seen it so many times but still crack up laugh every time.

Another funny is Ryan has taken to shaking his booty, that's right his booty! He loves to stop at any moment and shake his money maker and make sure he gets someone else to do it with him. Ben's trying to get this recorded as it's something we can show him later and he will just die or laugh his head off.

He is growing up and turning into a special little boy and I just cant wait to see what he does next. He has a great imagination and is a smart little thing so who knows what's next.

SLOW DOWN!!

Ok, so I have alot to catch up on and I realize I probably will not get to much of it but over time maybe I'll catch up. I am however going to update on my little peanut growing ever so quickly in my tummy.



I am almost 29 weeks and my belly is growing by the minute. I've noticed that the end is getting more interesting as overall this pregnancy has been pretty good. I have felt really good, maintained a very active lifestyle and haven't slowed down much until TODAY!! My body is talking and I guess I have to listen. I have had a rough few weeks and it's time to slow down and think about my health and the health of my sweet baby. My last Dr. appt. my blood pressure was high for the first time ever and then yesterday I was spotting again and once again this morning. Lots of pressure down there so this little mama had to lay down and take it easy. Trust me that is NOT easy when you have a 2 and almost 5 year old. Thankfully I have a fantastic husband who came home on lunch the past 2 days and let me get a real good rest and even a little nap. Yes, I napped!!! If you know me at all I DON'T nap-EVER!! The last few days I zonked out without even knowing what happened. Like I said , I have to listen to this growing body as it's in control. I am hopeful tomorrow I'll be back to my old self , but reminding myself also that I have to SLOW down !!!

Oh, so sad

I am emotional already but yesterday I got a letter from Keaton's teach that he has had for almost 2 years now that she will be leaving in Feb. to have another back surgery. Mrs. Stratton is so dear to us and we are sad that she will be leaving but we pray that she has a safe surgery and a speedy recovery. Keaton has done so well at school the last 2 years. He has really grown up and become such a fine little man. Mrs. Stratton was a wonderful influence and role model and I pray that she will be back to her old self soon enough and back to teaching next year for little Ryan.

On another note I am filling out the paperwork to register Keaton for Kindergarten which makes me want to shed tears as I just don't know where the time has gone. Then on top of that I could cry more as I am also registering Ryan for his first year of preschool at Holy Apostles. Both boys will be in school, which boggles my mind. One thing I do know is I will really cherish every moment with this new little one that will be here very soon as time just goes way to fast.

Staying at home had days were I was ready to head back to work and send the kids off to someone else but I look back now and know that I have been given the best gift ever the gift of watching my children grow and them knowing that they are #1 in our lives. They have turned into such great little men and I cant wait to see how they grow and change as time passes.

Posts to come

This is mostly for me to remeber what I want to write about when I get the time again.

Christmas cookie day
Christmas morning and day
Bens Birthday
Ryan's fasination with Night at the Muesum and Tom and Jerry and Mr. Potato Head
Fun snow days
Friends

Oh yes and some updates on my little peanut in my belly!

So yes , I have ALOT to get to but so little time to sit so will try and knock out one by one

Putting up the tree

OK, so putting up the tree this year was much better than last year I have to say but always interesting when you have a 2 and 4 year old helping. I tried to have it organized and give everyone a job but as one know kids have a mind of their own and they do what they want. I gave in and just had a good time with it. The tree turned out wonderful and thankfully we actually had decorations from the top to the bottom this year unlike years past! It was heart warming to see the boys have such delight in decorating the tree and house. We even got daddy to put some lights on the tree outside and put out 2 deer. Keaton was over the moon about this as he was concerned that we did not join all the others in the neighborhood who were decked out in lights.

Christmas program 2008 for Keaton

Keaton had his Christmas program at school again this year and once again he sang his little heart out. It's amazing how grown up and on it all the kids were this year. Last year was adorable but it was typically 3/4 year olds doing what they do best, dresses over the head, picking their noses, spinning in circles, ect... this year they actually sang, knew their part in the play they did and stayed in one place and smiled and just plain had a good time. It was a great way to start the holiday season.