Quick Funny

This evening while I was changing diapers, Noah was following along behind me chattering away. He loves to talk about our ages and how old he will be when Abby is 6 (AND A HALF) or how old his dad is and how he will be older than him one day. I am ashamed to admit that I do not listen to every single word he says. When I did start listening to him again I heard him saying, "And then 77... and then 87... and then 97... and then 107." I said, "Noah! Listen to you! Are you counting by 10's?" (Now, mind you, I knew full well that he wouldn't understand what I was asking. I was just shocked to hear what he was doing.) He sat right up and looked at me with a confused look on his face. He said "No, mom. I was counting by 7's. Weren't you listening?" Couldn't help but laugh. Sometimes that kid can just be too cute...

Benjamin's First Day of School

Well, it is official. As of yesterday, Benjamin is officially IN SCHOOL. Daddy and I went back and forth on the idea of getting him in a program this year and had pretty much decided not to do it - feeling very guilty because he was pretty vocal about his interest in going to Noah's school. But at the last minute (actually, a week after school started) we changed our minds and were able to get him in. See, most of my day is spent refereeing my sons. To say it is exhausting is an understatement. (If anyone has ANY suggestions on how to work with this issue aside from separation, I am all ears...) School days are a treat around here because with the boys separated everyone is happier and less stressful. However, it occurred to me that Noah deserved to be home for one of those 'quieter' days as well. So, now Tuesdays are his day home with Mommy and Abby where we get to do what he wants to do and he doesn't haave to be in trouble all day for fighting with his brother. AND, Benjamin gets to spend a day at school. It is a win-win.

So, on his first day daddy met us at school to walk him in. As we were getting out of the car he asked about Noah's back pack. I said he didn't need it because he wasn't staying. There was some confusion about this, but he got over it quickly. As he jumped out of the car he said, "I won't lose you, Mommy, while I am at school." (Isn't he thoughtful?) Because he is at "Noah' school" he had no apprehension at all. He marched right in there and said hi to all the office staff then went to his classroom. He went right in and started playing with the toys. The teachers were very impressed with his level of comfort. (Really we knew he was not going to have any problem with going to school. I was just kind of hoping he would shed just a little tear. Just ONE tear. Just to let me know that he would miss spending his entire day with me. We got nothing.) He was kind enough to wave and smile as we walked out - more than some other sons do when they go to school.

Now, Benjamin's day could last until 2:30 but that would mean he would have rested for an hour at school and missed out on his 2-3 hour nap at home AND he would be home and awake while Noah and Abby were sleeping, so I am opting to pick him up early. I kind of feel guilty about this because he looks so cute lying on his little cot with all his friends when I get there to pick him up. (He also tells me that resting with his friends is his favorite part of the day. I am fairly certain this is because it is the last thing he does each day.) He told me that he ate lunch next to Nathan and he eats chocolate sandwiches. I think I know who Benjamin's best friend is going to be... And while we might not be ready for Benjamin to be old enough to 'go to school' we really are grateful that he has made the transition so easily. Happy schooling, Benjamin!

100 and Counting

Something very exciting happened yesterday. Noah counted to 100. All by himself. WITH NO MISTAKES! Now, if you spend any amount of time with Noah you know he practices A LOT. When not spelling every word he can see or asking questions that truly have no correct answer, he is counting. What started very innocently as, "One-a, Two-a, Three-a, Four-a..." earlier this summer quickly blossomed into, "What comes after 20-10?" And when we corrected him, he didn't just make the change and continue. He'd go back to one and start over. Even yesterday afternoon he was still struggling with the higher numbers and forgetting what came after 79. But he never gives up. He must have been thinking about it all through choir practice because as soon as we got home he told his dad he wanted to count for him. He started right in and went all the way to 100 without stopping or stumbling even once. I really can't believe he is so big! When we asked him to do it again later so we could tape him, he went all the way to 120. Wait until he finds out he knows the secret of counting indefinitely. Can't wait until he starts counting to 1,000. And if you ever want to hear him, just ask. He is more than happy to oblige anyone who asks him to count. Here is a little blurb of his milestone last night.

Mr. Sun

Benjamin has really been improving in his singing. Not only does he do it more, his songs are more and more recognizable each day. And, he is really good at remembering the words. This morning he really wanted me to sing "the sun song". I didn't have any idea what he was talking about so I asked him if he could tell me what it sounded like. I really was not expecting much of a response but, this is what I got in return... Not too bad, if I do say so myself.

New Backpacks. Ka-chow!

Today was a big day for Benjamin. He got to go to the Disney store to pick out his VERY OWN backpack and suitcase (or lunch box, to some). I was a little concerned that we had missed them because the store was all about Halloween costumes. We eventually found them tucked in the back. It actually took him quite a while to make a decision on the best choice. He first said he wanted Buzz & Woody. (That is what Noah has...) But then he ended up with Lightning McQueen. This is where it went immediately, and this is where it stayed. After his nap, he filled his backpack with dominoes and his 'suitcase' with books. I do not think the boy could be any happier. There is just something about new backpacks. Remember when Noah got his?

Sorry, Amy.

One of my best friends from college went on to dental school. Her dad was a dentist. Her sister was a dentist. Her brother-in-law was a dentist. We got our share of [unsolicited] dental advice on occasion. Always sweet, of course, because Amy knew no other way. When I went back to school here in Kansas, I was without insurance. I had some problems with my teeth and she coached me from Memphis. Even sent contraband dental supplies in the mail. (NOT the federal mail, of course. It was interoffice mail - I promise.) She was even good enough to send me those fun, little, pink pills that little kids chew to see where they missed brushing because she knew I loved them. Well, I had a dentist appointment tonight. Had a cavitiy. Turns out living off Diet Coke and not brushing your teeth for nine months at a time will eventually catch up with you. So, I'm sorry, Amy. I am sorry that I chose to ignore all your advice. I promise to step it up a little in my dental care, ok? You can all hold me accountable on that. :)

Old Settlers' Days

We saw in the newspaper that Olathe was celebrating "Old Settlers' Days" this weekend. We were intrigued by "the largest parade in Kansas" - I mean, who doesn't love a parade? Our boys love their marching bands and the weather was supposed to be beautiful so we headed out. Little dd we realize the largest parade also meant ridiculous crowds. We eventually found a parking place but had to walk a looooong way to find a place to watch the parade. And it was a fabulous parade. What's funny is, it was about 82 degrees but as we have been spoiled with mid-70's for the last six weeks or so that EVERYONE was complaining about the heat. I think we actually got our first sunburns of the year also, but again. Not complaining. After wathcing most of the parade and getting some yummy candy (maybe that is what the boys like best, come to think of it) we decided to go downtown and take in some of the rides. The boys have never been on any of these little carnival rides and we thought they would probably enjoy it. We were not wrong. They went straight for the motorcycles first. Now Benjamin was a little apprehensive but was willing to try it because he was with his big brother. Unfortunately, the second seat belt didn't work so he had to move to his own cycle. He was holding on for dear life. When the ride started, he had a look of sincere fright on his face but after the first spin around, he just started cracking up and pretty much never stopped. Next they hit the spaceships and the little mini dragon roller coaster. They laughed and laughed and it was truly heartwarming to see them enjoying each other's company sooo much. Now THAT is what it is [supposed to be] all about. Noah and daddy also took in the Ferris Wheel. He had a song about one on his Kindermusik CD and has wanted to try one ever since. He was not disappointed.

A quick hour walk back to our car and we were back in the air conditioning. Boy, did that feel good. And, on case you are wondering, an 'Old Settler' is someone who has lived in Johnson County for 40 years. Christopher is soooo going to be first in that line for his offical button in just three short years. Check back, I'll be sure to post a picture.

Another Day of Firsts

Abby had another big day yesterday. Mommy handed her a toy while she was standing and he took her hands right off the toy box and just stood there - not holding on to anything. She looked so big. While it was super cute (cause, really, what isn't that she does?), I told her daddy that I really didn't like it. I know she is already older than the boys were when they were walking, but she still just looks so little. And I am perfectly happy with her staying that way as long as she will. Second on her list of firsts - Abby made her first outgoing phone call. She called customer service for our phone provider. Luckily she dialed 6-1-1-1 and not 9. I was able to hang up before any person actually answered. Now that is something the boys have not yet accomplished. I know - we should get used to the fact that she will be spending much time on the phone in the years to come. And lastly, Abs sported her first ponytail. Now, daddy and I are in agreement that these little ponytails are a little funny looking so she won't be wearing them very often. But we also both agreed it was pretty cute for her first try. And when it fell out, daddy got his first try at putting it back in. How cute is that? Go easy on him, though. (Nobody told him that the rubber band expanded to go around the pony tail, he tried to just slip it on.) I'm sure he will get better with practice. So, as you can see, three firsts for activities that we will no doubt see plenty of in the future.

Four. AND A HALF!!

We've never made much of the age add-on's to this point. However, Noah has a little friend that has friends with older siblings and all this is very important to him - thus, it has become very important to Noah. We decided to have some fun with it, so we had a "half-birthday party". He was disappointed to discover this did not come with all the presents and themed party, but did enjoy his HALF birthday cake. Can he really be just 6 short months shy of 5 YEARS OLD??? Yikes!

Oh, and for the record - he did not have a single bite of his cake. ALL he talked about all day but then he decided the frosting smelled bad and didn't want anything to do with it. Silly kid...

First Day of School

Today was Noah's first day of 4 year old preschool. He is back at Valley View this year and very excited. He has a couple of the same boys in his class - luckily, his favorite friends, Gustavo and Wesley. Before going to bed last night he laid out his new clothes. (He picked them out all by himself - right down to the red, white, and blue stripped socks.) I was pretty surprised he was not up at 5:30 this morning dressed and ready to go. Once he was up, however, he only had one thing on his mind - getting to school. He and Benjamin started out in their regular crazy routine but every time I reminded him that it was school he would say, "Oh, yeah! Right." And he got back to the task at hand. (I can only hope this plays to my advanage for many days to come!!) I must admit getting my shower, dressing and feeding the three kids, and getting everyone out the door by 8:40AM is quite a workout that early in the morning. We got to school and I wanted to take his picture outside his classroom. He said, "Nooooo, maaaaahhhhmmmmm." Just like a big kid. I guess he thought his friends were going to tease him or something. I should have licked my hand and wet his hair down. Daddy joined us to send him off. Noah, of course, had no reservations. He even forgot to say goodbye to me. Guess that means he will do just fine at school. I should add that I had a hard time sleeping last night. While some might say it was because I was too excited, I might say that it is always a little hard to believe that your child is really as old as that mean calendar says he is. (And I think Noah had a case of the nerves, too, whether or not he admits it. I heard him get up at least three times also.)

We came home and tried to lay Abby down but she was more interested in playing with me and Benj. (I think she may be well into a one nap schedule - which could be good, I suppose. I won't have to feel guilty about not getting right home.) We did some coloring, some building, and watched 'The Number Show.' (Sesame Street.) Benjamin does love the Count and the honkers! All too soon it was time to go back to pick up Noah. I don't have the luxury of daddy meeting us this year so I'll be hauling all three kids in and out - I'm going to enjoy the days of no winter coats (more weight), that is for sure. Now, on Monday and Friday, Noah will be staying all day and we will pick him up at 2:30. On Wednesday, we will pick him up at 11:25 and head straight to his music class at church at 12:15. (I'm wishing I had a DVD player in the car because Abby will certianly have the time to watch her signing videos there as she'll be held captive so she can't just get up and go play somewhere else.)

The most exciting part of the day [for me] was that when I asked about his day, I actually got a response. "We put on soccer shirts. I was 14. The goalie. Gus was number 8. Then we took them off." They read a book about a dog who dug a whole and knocked in a little girl. And, he showed me the painting he did. I asked about songs and he taught me the "wash Your Hands" song. "Now, Mommy, repeat after me." Some kids had raisins but he had crackers for a snack and they prayed "God, bless us every one." He also said he got to sit next to Eric. I wonder if I will get such a full report every day.

He said he was glad that I picked him up because if I had not, "I would have been at school all day and that would have been a very bad day." Do you think that actually meant he was happy to see us? I'm going to think that. Hope you have a great year, Big Kid!!

Labor Day at the Lake

This past weekend we got to go to the Lake of the Ozarks with the Campbells. All the Campbells. Noah went down early with Grandpa and Grandma on Friday "to help clean up." His job was to help vaccum and get the house ready for the rest of us. I think mostly he just enjoyed being by himself for a while. He told Benjamin before he left that he would see him soon and if Benjamin missed him, he could just call him on the phone. So sweet, hunh? Our departure was a little delayed - thanks to making another triple layer rainbow cake and getting the carpets cleaned Friday morning. We were hoping to get away right at 4:00 when Christopher got out of work but is was closer to 5:30. Add in CRAZY traffic, rain, and construction, and our 2.5 hour trip was closer to 5 hours. Not fun, but Abs and Benj traveled just fine. Noah was conked out when we got there - too much vaccuming, I guess. Grandma said he wasn't disappointed that he didn't have any pajamas or his nite-nites at bedtime, but just that he was sad that he had to turn off the TV and we wouldn't get to see the cartoon he was watching. So thoughtful. Needless to say, we were more than ready for bed when we arrived and got everything unpacked.

Saturday morning saw more cake decorating while trying to keep the kids occupied and off of each other. At lunch time, daddy and Noah went with Grandpa to rescue Erika who had some trouble finding her way down from college. They also picked up some worms so they could FISH. The rain had let up and we hardy got through lunch before they were down on the dock trying out their poles.Unfortunately, we had no luck on the first outing. (Turns out the farmer has spoiled our boys' sense of fishing, as they think it should always be that easy.) BUT, when we got back to the house, Aunt Cynthia and crew had arrived. The boys are always so excited to see the cousins. Abby is quickly learning to appreciate them as well. (And I don't just think it is because you sneak her food, Kenzie.)After a little resting, they headed back out for more fishing. With evening coming on and the rain returning, we couldn't keep the fish off the poles. Daddy was busy defishing and reworming hooks. (Turns out the teenage cousins don't like touching those things either.) After dinner we had McKenzie's birthday party. (She will be turning 16 on 09-09-09. How cool is that???)

Sunday was another lazy day around the house. More fising. More cartoons. More wrestling until someone cries and we get separated. More potty training while fishing. Benjamin decided to liven things up a bit on his own. He thought about napping with his baby sister - with all the pillows in the room. (Doesn't she look pleased?)And he entertained himself with some coloring. Not one foot, mind you, but two. Our fun activity for today was a boat ride. We went after dinner and nightfall was quickly approaching. We recognized that the front light was not working properly but thought we would head out for a quick ride anyway. As luck would have it, the first boat we came upon was the safety patrol. So he pulled us over and got the front light changed. The kids all thought getting pulled over was pretty fun. Not sure Grandpa was as excited. It did help pass the time while we waited for fireworks at one of the nearby resorts, though. And we got to see an amazing moon (that unfortunately refused to show up in our pictures).

Monday we worked at getting things packed up so we could head back home. As luck would have it, Noah happened to try to get daddy outside just a big, black snake was slithering past. He was sooooo excited. I'm just glad he saw it and not me AND that he was standing inside the door and not out. Daddy assures me it would not have bit him, I still don't care. Hate snakes. A little more fishing with no luck for the little boys. They still enjoyed it, though. After lunch, we got all packed up and headed home. With a pack-n-play, two booster seats, all our bags, a kitty cage (and all his paraphernalia) our car was a little packed. For added enjoyment, we stopped and picked up the dogs on the way home. (The dogsitter thinks we need a bigger car. Now what fun would that be??) After dinner we managed to get kiddos to bed on time, unpacked the car, unpacked a few bags, bathed the dogs, and got to bed before midnight. Abby's favorite: Seeing the snake (says Noah). Benjamin's favorite: the fireworks. Noah's favorite: Seeing the snake. Mommy's favorite: fishing in the rain. Daddy's favorite: the boat ride. All-in-all a perfect holiday weekend.

PS. Anyone else curious about why we have a 'Labor Day'? Stay tuned - I'll look it up and give you a full report someday.

The Future Billy Graham?

Our little Noah has turned a new leaf. Driving out of church last week I asked the same question I always do. "What did you learn about at Sunday School, Noah?" And for the first time ever I did not get, "I don't know," or, our personal favorite, "Jesus." Because 9 out of 10 times he's probably got the right, right? Well, much to our surprise, he gave us the whole rundown of an actual story in its entirety. Christopher and I were shocked. And pleasantly surprised. He also told us that they have been learning a Bible verse. I got to help in his room one Sunday so I heard what it was. It's pretty cute. Last week he wanted to write a note to Claire who lives next door. He printed off a picture on the computer and had me write this message, "Hi, Claire. I hope you like this picture. I made it for you because the Lord is with me. 'Be strong and brave because the Lord is with you.'" I reminded him that it was Joshua 1:9 so he had me write that too. Then he signed his name and drew a picture of himself. Pretty cute, hunh? He's also been asking all kinds of questions about Jesus and his dying on the cross. It's pretty difficult to explain. I don't want to short change the story and I do my best to answer but I usually lose his attention before I get to the end. One Sunday driving to church he wanted me to go all the way around the building so he could see the cross on the top. He asked if that was where Jesus died and I told him no, that that was a different cross in a place far away. He then remembered it was in "The Skull. Golgotha." He asked if we could go there some time to see it. I told him very honestly that I didn't know. I said mommy and daddy would really like to go there but it is not a very safe place. I tried to explain that the people who live there now do not get along very well and we might be in danger. He said, "Well, we could just hide in the corn. Then they couldn't se us and we would be safe." So, now if he can just convince Grandma Bonnie of that plan, I guess we will be making our pilgrimage. So, if you are the praying sort would you lift up little Noah? I really feel like we are so close to getting the Good News in to his little head. How precious a gift would it be to have him accept Jesus? God's got big plans for this little boy, I am sure of it!

Choir Practice

Noah had his first official choir practice last night. He was sooooooo excited. He has been asking about it for almost a month now since I told him I signed him up. When my adult choir started a few weeks back, he thought his should to and every time we headed to church he would ask, "Do I get to go to choir practice now?" I told him Saturday night that it was FINALLY time on Sunday. He asked me twice before we left for church and asked three times in Sunday school. He even went right to sleep at nap time so I wouldn't have any excuses for not taking him after dinner. He was a little disappointed that I wouldn't get to stay and watch him but I assurred him that I would be in there on several occasions. He just looked so sweet walking in to his room. He had the biggest smile on his face. He went right in and sat down. Our neighbor is his director which could be a good thing - could be a bad thing if he gets too comfortable with her. I waited my hour downstairs and when I returned to pick him up he came running over and said, "Did you see me, Mommy? Was I on the big screen? I was smiling." Our sanctuary has the large projection screens on the sides and when he has been in the service he has seen daddy up there playing his trumpet. I guess I didn't explain to him that this was not on simulcast... So cute. And I am so glad his first practice was not a let down. He seemed to really enjoy it and can't wait to go back. And I couldn't be happier that he loves to sing.

Thanks, But No Thanks!

Sometimes I get the feeling I must look like the worst, most ill-prepared mother in the world. I am amazed at how people feel the need to correct me - a complete stranger - when they have witnessed my life for all of about 15 seconds. And I am also amazed at how many people out there do this! Now, like I said... Maybe I just have a bright, flashing light above my head (that I can't see) or maybe I just always seem to be in the wrong place at the wrong time because I cetainly get my share. And in case you couldn't tell, it kind of irks me. So let me share with you my latest experience... I have three children in carseats, right? Two in the middle row and one in the back - until this last weekend, that happened to be Benjamin. Now, we get out a lot. I mean A LOT. None of us is happy at home for too long so we are constantly out and about. Needless to say, I get my share of practice with loading and unloading children, right? Well, last week we met daddy for lunch and then ran in to JoAnn's on the way home. I got out, got out the double stroller. (I take this EVRYWHERE! Noah is good at staying with me and following along. Benjamin? Not so much. And when the two are out and about together? You can forget about getting anything constructive done. So Benjamin rides. He is perfectly happy in there and I will take advantage of that as long as I can.) I undo Abby's seatbelt and reach over her seat to undo Benjamin's in the back. I know FROM PLENTY OF PRACTICE that I have enough time to get Abby in the stroller and get over to the other door before Benjamin gets out of his seat and takes advantage of the fact that he can play with Noah's head while he is strapped in his carseat and there is nothing Noah can do about it except yell - which Benjamin finds extremely entertaining. I also park the stroller at the end of the aisle between the boys' door and the car next to us so should he miraculously stop fussing with Noah before I pull him off, he can't get away from me in the parking lot. Well, on this particularday, he did just that and hopped out of the car as I was finishing with Abby. He was standing RIGHT NEXT TO ME so Ipicked him up and was placing him in the stroller when I noticed a car behind us 75% backed up and the lady driving just staring at me. I look up to see what the problem is and she says, "He can't be running around the parking lot by himself." I smile and nod and go about my business. She, still not moving her car, continues, "I was looking behind me and I couldn't see him." I'm thinking to myself, "Well, I could." Again, I smile and continue on. Still she sits, staring at me. "He really shouldn't be out here. You should leave him in the car." I said, "Ma'am. I am with these children 24 hours a day and I am pretty certain that I have a better understanding of how to manage them than you do. Thank you." And I go back to get Noah. Still sitting. Still staring. And then the real kicker. She says, "Do you have any idea how I would feel if I ran over him?" WHAT!!?!? I tried my best to politely reply, "No, ma'am. I can't imagine but I am going to guess it would not be even half as bad as I would feel." And we were finally able to turn and walk away from her. I totally expected her to still be sitting there when I came out. I was almost wishing she had been so I could have told her it was good thing she wasn't in the church parking lot last fall when Abby and the stroller blew away in the wind while I was getting Benjamin in the car. I can only imagine how horrible she would have felt had she run over my daughter AND my stroller... Sheesh! So to all you well-meaning, unsolicited-advice-givers out there I just want to say, "Thanks, but no thanks." Get yourself a column and wait until someone asks for your help.

Fun in the Sun

Noah, Benjamin, and I met Eric and Ingrid at the zoo on Saturday for the Friends of the Zoo breakfast. It was a nice relaxed morning that we just did whatever the boys wanted. We didn't really see any of the animals (we spent a lot of time in the play areas) but we did get to ride a camel! They could have all gone together but Noah didn't want to ride with any grown-ups so he and Eric soloed. Ingrid said Benjamin spent his whole ride asking why the other camel was just standing there. I guess walking in a circle looked so fun, he must have thought everyone should be doing it. We stayed through lunch then headed home. Oh, yeah - while we were waiting at the entrance, the boys got to try out a real fire engine. Boy, do your kids like tiny in a gigantic fire truck. They had a great time, though, and Noah enjoyed talking with the firemen about our smoke detectors. (They told him to remind daddy to check the batteries and he did just that when we got home.)

On Sunday, Abby got to try on her new Detroit Tiger outfit she got from our friends in Michigan. (Daddy dressed the boys to counteract the non-Royal attire.) Our new minister from Michigan (who happens to be a huge Tiger fan) was preaching so Abby showed off her outfit to him. After church, the boys talked daddy in to getting out the bike trailer. They were very excited to be back on the road. Abby had her inaugural ride and she was not very excited. Daddy found out the hard way that everyone has to ride with everyone so his rides are growing exponentially. His legs are gonna be in some shape! We had a great weekend enjoying the beautiful summer weather.