Triple the Trouble plus One

Juan's first date

2011-08-12T22:34:00.000-05:00

We were at the water park last weekend and found a friend of Juan's from preschool. The two started playing together and holding hands. They even took turns pushing each other into the pool. They also shared a pretzel. Then Juan invited Sydney to dinner at our house. He told her I would make tacos. It was really cute. It is nice to know that my little boy is such a gentleman.

First Day of School

2011-08-11T20:39:00.000-05:00

We are waiting for the buses on our first day of school. Audi will be going to a different school from her sisters that is better equipped to handle her special needs.

Gabby thinks the world is a gym.

My big Kindergartner!

I am glad that Juan's second Mom will be close by in case he needs her.

My beautiful bambinos!

I was glad to have school begin so I could stop paying the high cost of full day care on 4 children. The kids were not as happy as I. The girls are entering 4th grade this year and Juan Kindergarten. I think it will be a great year for each of them. Audi is attending a different school. It will be better for her and hopefully she will be back with her sisters for middle school. Audi has done so much better since her hospitalization. She came home a different kid. I am so pleased because I thought she may need to live away from me and her siblings for every one's safety. I finally see hope for her future. Hope for a better life. Things are good.

Vacation

2011-06-29T18:46:00.000-05:00

This was us at the end of our vacation. I think we were all ready to come home. You will notice that Audi is missing from this photo. She did not get to go on the vacation because she was away from home learning to deal with her anger issues.

This is me and my little guy. I love this picture.

This is Fort Mackenzie. We went to the Great Wolf Lodge. It is an indoor water park.

This is Fort Mackenzie during the BIG SPLASH.

Juan enjoyed the water slides too.

This place was pretty cool. It was decorated really neat and we got to dig for dino bones.

RUN Juan before you get eatin.

This is our great discovery.

Juan the explorer. Move over Dora.

Lunch at Wild Bill Hicocks (not sure of spelling)

We sat on a bull.

We hung out with wild creatures.

And I got a picture of Josie smiling.

Juan had a little cotton candy.

And Gabby had some ice cream.

On the way home from Kansas, KS we stopped in Independence to visit with the President. We got to see the Oval Office just as Harry Truman had it.

Where's the bleeping microwave! I'm so glad I didn't live in the 50's.

They had a replica of the Liberty Bell.

And this is Harry Truman's humble abode.

We had a great vacation. The water slides were the kids favorite part. I hope next year we can take another and bring Audi along. It just wasn't the same without her.

What's Happening

2011-02-25T14:33:00.000-06:00

This is my bed. Do you see any room for me?

Not much to report. Same thing different day. We got the new cat/alien. We still have the three birds and a dwarf hamster. When winter ends we will be more active. We start Upwards Soccer next month.

Since Houdini is our first cat we are still learning the proper way to hold him.

I can't explain this.

Juan and Houdini

it is just as you see

Farmer Juan

Gabby

Josie and Gabby

Pet Update

2011-02-25T14:11:00.000-06:00

We have a new creature living in our house. Since the kids are allergic to animal fur/hair we got one without. He is a sweet little guy and I am having fun dressing him up.

This is our new cat Houdini.

Houdini had surgery and will not leave the stitches alone, hence the cone.

George lost one foot.

George lost one foot when his foot got caught in a toy. He is doing good. He seems to have no problem getting around his cage with only one good foot.

He gets around okay.

Josie's School Program

2010-12-19T10:53:00.001-06:00

Josie is in choir at her school. They did a Christmas Carol for their program. Josie had the part of a dancer. Later in the school year she will get to sing at Busch Stadium (or what ever it is called now), during a ball game.

George's Booboo

2010-12-06T22:06:00.000-06:00

George injured his toe. It swelled up and he started picking at it. Next thing you know George is missing two toes. Gross! I took him to the birdie vet and they amputated what was left of his two front toes. He is currently in a little cast and on medication twice a day. He is getting around pretty good. Poor George.

Meet #2

2010-12-06T21:59:00.000-06:00

Me and Stephine

Gabby warming up

Flipside Team is ready to begin

Gabby on beam

Gabby on floor

Dismount

Awards

Joy's new cat

2010-10-28T21:04:00.000-05:00

Joy got a Spynx cat. He is adorable. She needs help picking the purfect name for him. Any suggestions?

First Meet of the Season

2010-10-28T21:01:00.000-05:00

Way to go Gabby Chan and Sophie!

8 year old veterans

Great Job Flipside 2nd Place

Aunt Cathy's Annual Halloween Bash

2010-10-28T20:55:00.000-05:00

The Whole Gang

Josie being helpful.

Juan and Josie

Uncle Don taking Audi for a ride.

Olivia squeezing her lil' pumpkin, I mean sister.

Juan cleaning up the out doors. It is so messy.

Gabby flying high.

Audi the beautiful witch.

Juan's Swim Lessons

2010-10-28T20:41:00.000-05:00

Juan completed preschool lessons and is no in level 1 Tadpoles.

Carnival

2010-09-08T21:29:00.000-05:00

I took the kids to the carnival at Mid Rivers Mall over Labor Day weekend. This is Josie scared to death on the roller coaster. She rode it a couple times but was still kinda scared.

Audi did okay on this Dumbo ride until it went up in the air. Then she freaked!

Gabby, no surprise, was fearless. She rode the swings and called them lame. Then she rode them again.

This is me and Audi on the bumper cars. I had to ride those suckers three times because the girls were too short to reach the petals but all of them wanted to ride. I liked it but it hurt my back by the time I was done.

We all rode the spinning Strawberry. I took pictures while spinning. We had it spinning really fast. I thought I might get sick when I stepped out but I did not dare tell the girls.

Her is the brave one on another scary ride. This thing went high and Gabby's butt came right up off the seat. She loved every minute of it!

I thought this was a cool picture. That is Gabby's legs.

Finally a slow ride that all three enjoyed.

The fun house consisted of a maze of mirrors, four mirrors to distort your body and a slide at the end. The kids when two-three times. Not sure why.

Audi coming down the slide.

And to ALL a Good Night!

2010-08-10T21:13:00.000-05:00

Do your kids sleep this crazy?

Pool time

2010-08-02T20:27:00.000-05:00

Does this count as synchronized swimming?

Audi was done swimming for the night.

Juan bravely floated around the pool in his ring.

Anyone for a dolphin ride?

Juan's turn

Josie's turn

Random pics

2010-08-02T20:08:00.000-05:00

Snug as a bug in a rug.

GOOD husband in training.

Josie

Gabby

Audi

Juan

Josie the Amazing Fish Girl makes a splash!

2010-08-02T19:55:00.000-05:00

At the Zoo

2010-07-28T22:24:00.000-05:00

Juan, Audi, Josie & Gabby ready to start our adventure.

Audi loves ducks.

We got up early just for the Stingray exhibit.

Stingray pool

Josie petting a ray.

Gabby trying to reach a ray.

Audi was not afraid.

Three large frog statues.

Juan and Audi going for a ride.

Is this the fountain of youth.

No. Just a fountain full of youths.

Josie was uncharacteristicly posing for pictres.

petting the goats

Gabby climbing the wall

Juan climbing the wall

Josie even smiled.

my favorite exhibit

it is nice and cold in here

waiting for the show to start

the seals put on a great performance

Josie wanted to see the Stingray exhibit at the zoo so bad that we had to go. We haven't done too much other stuff this summer and break was already over. We got there early to enjoy the free parking, free stingray exhibit and free children's zoo. If you get there after 9:00am all these things cost. It was a HOT day. So we spent a lot of time with the penguins. It is kept very cold in there which is right up my alley. I can't take the heat at my advanced age and premenaposal state. We all had a great time and I got lots of great pictures with happy smiling kids. I had to threaten them in order to get the great pictures and great smiles but a mom has to do what a mom has to do. I want them to look back at this trip and remember it fondly.

First Day of School 2010

2010-07-28T21:51:00.000-05:00

Josie, Gabby, Audi and Juan

Juan and Gabby

Audi and Ducky

waiting for the bus

it's a tailgate party

my handsome boy

Summer time fun.

2010-07-28T21:43:00.000-05:00

I didn't know I wanted a son until I got one.

2010-07-28T21:32:00.000-05:00

Random May pictures

2010-07-28T21:22:00.000-05:00

Josie actually posing for the camera and smiling. Did hell freeze over?

Juan doing what he loves best.

Josie and Audi

Gabby

Juan is tuckered out.

Gabby with friends at gymnastics dinner.

Don't let a dress keep you from climbing to the top.

Sophie and Gabby

Sophie, Gabby and Isabelle

April Pictures

2010-07-28T21:09:00.000-05:00

Juan after buzz cut and chocolate.

Stay off the sidewalks. He's driving.

Josie "not smiling"

Gabby, Josie and Audi with Great Grammy on her birthday.

I spun Josie and Gabby on this tire swing until Josie actually puked.

Juan climbed all the way to the top wearting cowboy boots.

my pretty Audi

Easter 2010

2010-07-28T20:56:00.000-05:00

Juan, Audi, Josie & Gabby

Ready for the egg hunt

Princess Audi

I think she lost count.

Juan is stuffing a marshmellow into his mouth, because he can.

Gabby posing for the camera.

Gabby not so lady like here.

Juan and his "brother from another mother" Jonathan

Juan at play. Early April 2010

2010-07-28T20:46:00.000-05:00

March Pictures

2010-07-28T20:41:00.000-05:00

Snug as a bug in a rug.

He never sleeps in a bed.

Josie is wearing skates. She is not that much taller than Gabby.

Josie did a great job at her gymnastics meet.

Gabby held up scores at Josie's meet.

We celebrated at McDonald's and Josie got her little bear as a prize from Mom.

Gabby took first place at the March competition.

Kansas City Meet

2010-02-01T20:43:00.000-06:00

Me and Gabby took a trip to Kansas City for her to compete with her team in a gymnastics meet. Gabby won two medals; sixth on beam and eighth all around in the seven year old catagory. The team won the third place trophy. Gabby is holding it here.

Level 4 Team is lined up and ready to begin.

Gabby's floor routine.

Great Job! Level 4 Team

Gabby and Sophie gossip after the meet.

Then we went to lunch to feed our hungry gymnist. Here Gabby and Sophie pose with Coach Lizzie.

Then the fun really got going when we all went back to the hotel for a dip in the pool and hot tub. That is Isabelle with the beard of bubbles.

After doing flips in the hotel lobby for a while we had a sleep-over with Sophie.

What a great weekend!

Great Skate

2010-02-01T20:18:00.000-06:00

Aunt Lisa and Logan with Josie hidding her face.

Audi doing homework instead of having fun. I'm a mean mom.

Juan doing Itzy Bitzy Spider.

Logan and Gabby

Lisa & Logan

Gabby the "Bird Girl"

Guess who's come out of the closet, I mean cage.

2010-01-17T13:35:00.000-06:00

Sarin has moved into the big cage with his cell-e's Henry and George.

The trio are still trying to figure out the "pecking" order.

But Sarin is feeling more and more at home.

Juan with Baby and Cuddy.

Tasty!

Mom's room is the best in the house.

Gabby using her head.

Our little bird Sarin has been in a cage for two years or more living with little old ladies. He came to live with us 6 or more months ago. But he would not come out of his cage. He became more talerent of my hand in his cage refilling food and water but would not come to me. Yesterday I needed to take George & Henry to have their wings trimmed. So I asked Chino to help me box up Sarin and take him along for a trimming also. He was timid but did not bite the bird store owner. With clipped wings he could not fly away. Me and Gabby starting handling him right after the clipping. He still tries to get away when I try to get him but once he is caught he sits on the finger and even whistles. He is now living in the big cage with the other two birds. One big happy birdie family. I do love my boys.

Brunswick Party

2010-01-10T20:30:00.000-06:00

We went to Jonathan's birthday party today at Brunswick bowling alley. Well, most of us went. Audi entered into a rage and was unable to attend. She pulled all the books off the book shelf and threw things around the room. Chino came to get her. I thought he was going to stay home with her so she could miss the party and that be the consequence of her actions, BUT instead he took her to Dave & Busters for some fun and games and a nice lunch. Then he took her with him to Sam's to pick up a few grocery's. There he bought her a toy. I asked him why he did not get something for the other children and he said because they got to go to the party. So I told him he rewarded Audi for her behavior. What doesn't he get?

Anyway, the party was fun. It was so cute to see the 3 & 4 year olds bowl. Juan had no problem carrying the ball. He is so strong. And the little tiny bowling shoes were adorable. When Jonathan was opening his presents Juan asked where his present were. I told him it wasn't his birthday. He got a little upset when he could not have any cake but he got over it quickly. We had a real good time.

I had my camera and extra batteries but my camera was minus the memory card. I had taken it out the day before to upload Gabby's gymnastics pictures and forgot to put it back into my camera. BUMMER! I hope to get some pictures from other sources.

Very little to report

2010-01-10T20:09:00.000-06:00

Here Audi is modeling her new hat, scarf and mittens made by yours truly. Isn't she cute!

This is Juan testing out his sisters roller skates. He may need a pair of his very own for his birthday.

Gabby is showing off her first medal earned at her latest gymnastics meet. 7th place on bars. She couldn't have been prouder if she had gotten first. Her next meet is in Kansas City, MO.

Since I don't have too many pictures of Josie I picked this nice embarrassing one of her on Christmas morning. I threw that night gown out. It is a little too small.

Christmas morning

2010-01-05T21:17:00.000-06:00

Audi could not have been happier. She got the Easy Bake Microwave and decorator pen that she wanted.

Josie got the boots she has been dieing for and roller skates.

Gabby got roller skates too and lots of Tinker Bell stuff.

Juan love it all. He got transformers and a space station and an ipod. You know, because every three year old wants and needs one.
Chino got all the kids their own ipods. Now I have to figure out how to get the music onto them. Any advice?

Christmas Eve

2010-01-05T21:08:00.000-06:00

Christmas could not have come at a worse time this year. I wanted to skip it altogether but couldn't because of the four little people in my care. Most of these pictures were taken by Gabby. I took the camera back after my lense cover got broke. Maybe I will be in better spirits next year.

Lunch with Santa

2010-01-05T20:55:00.000-06:00

Wouldn't you think these kids would be happier and well behaved in the presence of Santa? Not my brood. Josie was mad because there was no free book like last year. Gabby was mad because the mac-n-cheese was white and not yellow and that the chicken was in ring instead of nuggets. She did not eat. Juan had his share of fits. He wanted to try the mac-n-cheese and I wouldn't let him because of the milk it contained. He had decided that he was no longer allergic to milk that day. Audi had her typical melt downs and I felt like the world's worst parent. We may not attend next year.

I figure a ballon sword is better than the real thing.

Josie's Big Day

2010-01-05T20:40:00.000-06:00

Josie received a Character Award for being a good student and friend in class. She is pictured here with two of her good friends Alexis and Herminie. Then her class and Gabby's class did some singing and dancing. Poor Audi got upset because she did not get to perform, maybe next time.

Branson for Thanksgiving

2010-01-05T20:29:00.000-06:00

We saw many things around town in Branson. This road side stop had a nice view and a resident cat.

We stopped at the damn and found a scoop for Juan to play with.

We went outlet shopping.

We visited museums also. Me and Josie went to the Titanic Museum and then all of us went to the Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum.

It was a fun trip looking back. But if you had asked me during the trip I would have told you we should have stayed at home. Juan and Audi had constent fits. Josie and Gabby complained about evey place we went. They wanted to spend the entire trip at the pool. I was ready to leave them all behind and walk home! Complaining and fighting were driving me CRAZY! And I don't have that far to go.

Why did they take the spell check off my Blogger? Please ignore any misspellings as I majored in math not english. Thank you for your cooperation.

Hotel Pool

2010-01-05T20:08:00.000-06:00

The girls favorite part of the trip was the hotel pool. They wanted to rush back every day so they could go swimming. You won't see any pictures of me in my suit so don't get your hopes up.

Bass Pro Shop - Springfield, MO

2010-01-05T20:02:00.000-06:00

We took a family vacation to Branson, MO over Thanksgiving Break. Our first stop was Bass Pro Shop in Springfield, MO. It had a live aligator inside the store. I thought it was a stuffed gator but told the kids it was real to see if they would believe me. Nobody believed until we saw it move!

This place had live ducks, fish, turtles. It was really cool. It had stuffed animals also. This is me posing with their friendly smiling bear. Glad it wasn't alive.

Hospital Visit

2009-11-21T09:39:00.000-06:00

Gabby had some Asthma troubles Halloween night and landed in the hospital. We were there Sunday 4am through Tuesday morning. We were sure glad to go home.

Brydie brought Josie and Audi and Juan up to visit and bring Gabby some things to play with while sitting in bed.

This is Juan with slinky mid-air standing on my bed. It pulls out to be twin size. It was pretty comfortable.

I went back to work on Wednesday but then left half day on Thursday because Audi had Swine Flu. She is doing fine now and nobody else got it. The kids all had the shot so Audi didn't get it very bad but I still used up most of my vacation and personal days caring for sick kids. I am very surprised that I didn't get the flu since Audi slept in my bed with me and I was her care giver.
I also missed my Girl Scout Leader camp-out. That is $70 down the drain. What can you do when your kids are sick!?

Cold Stone Creamery

2009-11-21T09:27:00.000-06:00

We took our Girl Scout troop to Cold Stone Creamery. We toured the back room and saw the freezers then we got to mix our own icecream on the frozen stone. Everyone had a good time. Audi got upset that I wouldn't let her go up for a million samples. She doesn't get that with 16 little girls there she can't do stuff like that without all the others wanting it also.

Another Meet - Columbia, MO

2009-11-21T09:19:00.000-06:00

We had our first sanctioned meet. Columbia, MO Gabby did not do so well. She got her normal placing but was upset because she did not get called up to receive her awards. It really did not make sense. There were about 76 gymnast and around 60 got called up. If you are going to do 60 why not 76? I don't get it. I could see if they did the top 5 of each group, but the top 20? It is just stupid not to include everyone at that point.

Here is a strange sight.

2009-10-25T22:07:00.000-05:00

This is an amazing sight. Audi and Gabby this close together and no blood shed.

Gabby received and award at school for thoughtfulness and kindness. I asked the teacher if she was sure she had the correct student.

Gabby, Audi, Cassie, Eliza, Josie and Kierstyn with crazy hair and silly faces.

Juan at the pumpkin patch.

Three little Brownies. It only took me three hours to iron on all those patches.

Girl Scout Troop at Rombach Farm (and Juan)

Shelbie, Josie and Audi picking a pumpkin.

Bat Girl and Wonder Runt

Meet #2

2009-10-25T21:47:00.000-05:00

Gabby's second meet won her four more ribbons! Her team cam in fourth. They did a great job.

First Meet

2009-10-10T09:16:00.001-05:00

Gabby didn't win the trophy but she did get four ribbons. She did a great job at her first competition ever. Our next meet is in November in Columbia, MO. I can't wait!

The girls listen to a pep talk from the coach.

The team practices their beam routine before the judging starts.

Gabby is in deep concentration.

Gabby's best score was on the Vault 8.2. She received a 7.8 on floor routine and bars and a 7.65 on beam, she didn't fall off! I am so proud of her. She puts in a lot of hard work practicing three days a week at three hours a day. Congratulations Gabby, keep up the good work. I love you!

Welcome Sarin

2009-10-03T08:58:00.000-05:00

This is our new addition, Sarin, as in serendipity. Don't ask me why all our birds look alike. Isn't he handsome?! He will not let us hold him yet but he has stopped hissing at me every time I put my hand in his cage. The day we brought him home I, stupidly, thought it would be a good idea to get him out of the cage. He flew up to the ceiling and found places to perch on top of framed pictured, the curtain rod and on top of the other birds cage. It took me and Brydie 20 minutes to capture him and get him back into his cage.

This is Sarin's cage. Henry and George like their new bird friend. George especially wants to spend all his time atop Sarin's cage. The girls say that they are in love. Let's hope not.

The true identity of Batman has been revealed. All this time I had no idea he lived right here under my own roof. IT'S JUAN! Who knew?

My father invited Juan over to help him out. Do you think any child labor laws were broken?

Our girl scout troop went to tour Sam's Bakery. We saw very big ovens and a walk-in freezer. Then we got to decorate a cookie and eat it. That was the best part.

Here Audi is decorating her cookie.

The girls got two new sets of bunk beds. My dad put them together, Juan helped. Poor Dad, I always got him working. He not only put these beds together but also put up new lights in the kids bedrooms and my bathroom. I had to put up new lights for the kids because I was afraid one might loose their head climbing into the top bunk! Juan got new bunk beds also, not that he sleeps in his room.

Well, this is what happens when you are an only boy living with three big sisters. You are dressed in drag against your will. They also put make-up on him. I said "no" to the finger nail polish!

There is an update on my life. It is pretty busy. I have been really busy with Girl Scout stuff, I am co-leader this year. Me and the leader both have really busy lives so I hope together we can manage the troop and have some fun with the girls.

Family Fun

2009-09-13T19:56:00.000-05:00

We went to Great Skate on Sunday and even Juan got in on the action. He skated great. Most of the time he was in the middle of the rink alone. He did better without a hand to hold.

He also enjoyed pretending to drive.

Gabby did great skating also.

Juan got a lot of attention from people amazed at his skating ability and cuteness.

Audi did not skate. And that is fine by me. She would pull my back out if she fell holding my hand.

We sang at church Sunday morning. Can you see the excitement on our little faces? I was totally embarrassed. We ended up leaving early because all the kids were complaining about one thing or another.

Juan and Gabby with George and Henry.

Juan with the birdie boys.

Ahoy...are you ready for Halloween?

2009-09-13T19:47:00.000-05:00

We got our costumes......Do you have the CANDY? We hit the Walmart and found the perfect outfits for Halloween. Aren't we cute!?

Juan pictured up top. duh

The girls left to right: Audi, Gabby and Josie

Sometimes we get along.

2009-09-07T21:05:00.000-05:00

Here the girls are playing, together. Strange I know.

George and Henry

George and Henry again.

Josie performing at the Francis Howell Central football game.

Me and Juan had a great time watching the mascot and cheerleaders.

My Birthday Weekend

2009-09-07T20:40:00.001-05:00

On the 29th we went for a nice lunch in Moscow Mills and then for homemade ice cream in Troy.

Audi got some on her.

Josie also.

Gabby choose a snow cone.

Juan too. He has a blue tongue.

Then we went to the Lock and Dam. We played at the park area.

And reluctantly posed for pictures.

Audi cooperates well for pictures.

We played a game call "find the gulf ball". I happened to see one and so told the kids I would give treasure box to whom ever found it. Gabby won. It was a dumb game but they wanted to play again. They brought the ball home with them.

We watched a barge get pushed through the dam.

On Sunday the 30th we went to the river. We caught tadpoles.

Went swimming.

And fishing.

Josie caught two fish. They both died a mysterious death.

Juan got mad at one point because I would not let him have his own bottle of water. He stripped down to nothing, he even took off his shoes and walked across the rocks bare footed crying. It is a good thing the beach was empty! We had a little drama but all in all it was a good weekend.

This and That

2009-08-18T21:35:00.000-05:00

Guess who lost another tooth!? Gabby lost her sixth tooth at a slumber party this weekend.

Dad came over to mow the grass since Chino has been out of town.

I caught Josie with the camera!

Audi, isn't she sweet!?

Juan driving the train.

Two birds are better than one.

2009-08-18T21:25:00.000-05:00

Meet George and Henry our new family pets. (These names are subject to change.)

Audi with birds.

Josie with birds.

Gabby and Henry

Juan and birds.

The kids are doing well handling the birds. The "boys" are a little skittish but forced handling will get them over it quick. They will be well loved.

King's Kids

2009-08-18T21:10:00.000-05:00

The kid's bible study class sang for the church on Sunday. Even Juan performed.

They were a little nervous at first and stood stark still and barely moved their mouths.

Then they let loose and sang loud and did hand motions.

Audi is very theatrical. She has quite the stage presence.

I was so proud of them!

We love FREDBIRD

2009-07-27T12:27:00.000-05:00

We went to a party Sunday and had a very special guest appearance. FREDBIRD! The kids loved it. Juan kept calling him "big bird". All the kids chased him around the room. Fredbird kept getting into things. He shook up our two litter soda bottles, stole gifts and food and had trouble standing still for pictures. He was really funny. All the prizes at the party were from the All Star Game. We got cups, balls, posters, baseball cards and some other stuff too.

Audi with Fredbird.

I don't know what he did to make Josie laugh like that!

This was a Fredbird kiss. I got one too.

Fredbird stood still long enough to get a picture with my kids and their cousin Lauren.

Thank you Bee Hives Buddies for hosting such a terrific party!

Random pictures

2009-07-26T11:57:00.000-05:00

This is a rare picture of Josie. I had to ketch her off guard. She is playing with her Lil Pet Shop village. Her and Gabby share over 20 of these little pet figures.

Gabby was trying to hide from the camera. I am not sure why, she is not usually camera shy.

Not sure what is going on here. Josie was covering her face because I was taking a picture but why Juan is covering his is a mystery and the headbands are a greater mystery. Never question the mind of a three year old.

I can't wait to use this one for black mail.

Juan is always on the job. This morning her was arguing with Audi that he had a job and she did not. Already sexist, is it born in them or taught?

Pool time

Audi loves to pose.

Juan created a blockade.

Audi with her "care bear family".

I CAN SEE!

2009-07-26T11:45:00.001-05:00

For the first time, in as long as I can remember, I can read the clock on my bedside table. I WAS severely nearsighted. But no longer. The moment I sat up on the surgical table I read the clock. It was 2:20 pm. Then I was told to go home and take a nap. Things were a little blurry, kinda like I was walking under water. And everything had a haze around it. They tell me this is normal and will fade. They were right. After my nap I woke up seeing very clear. My eyes are a little sore (like after a hangover). And I have very bad dryness. It feels like I slept in contacts and they are stuck firmly to my eye balls. I have antibiotic drops for a few days and Systane drops for three months. Small price to pay for sight! When I went in on Saturday, the day after the surgery, I tested at 20/25. I was at 20/1200 prior to surgery. BIG difference.

I am having a little trouble seeing up close and it is hurting my eyes to work on the computer. But I am sure that will change soon. Today is Sunday and I plan to drive in a little while. HOPEFULLY that will go well. Thank your Dr. Gans and your very kind staff!

Let's all CELEBRATE!

2009-07-09T18:46:00.000-05:00

As has become the custom, we celebrated Elvira's birthday at our 4th of July BBQ. It was a little cold and rainy but we still managed some fun. Elvira turned 3 this year. She is at least a head taller than Juan. I guess Juan is just destine to be a small fry.

This is Elvira's father. He is shooting Josie with the water blaster.

And Josie is defending herself.

Juan enjoyed the pool even though his lips were blue.

Josie, Audi and Gabby

The Birthday Girl!

We love a pinata.

Gabby

Juan

Josie

Audi

CANDY

Princess Audi

Princess Juan?

The World's Worst Mom

2009-06-20T15:54:00.000-05:00

I am the stand alone title holder. I encourage any competition. PLEASE.

So on Thursday the kids had there make-up field trip to the Zoo, Monday it rained and was cancelled. It took Chino to point out that water should be sent with the children since it would be 105 degrees with the heat index. Strike one.

I had an eye doctor appointment scheduled for the girls later that afternoon and they had to be picked up right after returning to school from the field trip. So they missed the "Reptile Experience" at school that afternoon. Some guy named Steve brings in large snakes and crocodiles. My children were devastated. Called me at work crying like it was the end of the world. Strike two.

Then that night while the kids were at Vacation Bible School, I decided it was time to clean the bird cage. Birdie was on my shoulder and I stepped out the front door to beat the dropping off his drop pan and off he flew. Strange that I didn't see that one coming. Strike three. I'm OUT.

So Mr. Nibbles still has not come home. After the thunder storm last night I have to assume him dead. Although the girls are convinced that he is alive and well in the house of a friend of a classmate. I am told that there were numerous sightings of Mr. Nibbles by fellow classmates at summer school. And one girl, with a great track record of honesty, said that her friend has him in her house but will probably not give him back because she loves animals so much and already has a cage to put him in. I guess this is better for the girls to believe than their bird being dead.

If you can top me I would love to hear about it. I would be more than happy to pass the title on to another, a worse mom than I.

Rascal's Game/Girl Scout Campout

2009-06-20T15:31:00.001-05:00

We went to a Rascal's baseball game last weekend. Out front they had radio Disney doing games. Josie won the hula hoop contest and got a Hannah Montana photo cube. Gabby and Audi both participated in this other hula hoop game where you pass the hoop until the music stops. If it stops on you then you are out. Gabby made it down to the final six.

Gabby passing the hoop. You can't let go of hands.

Audi passing the hoop.

They both won stickers.

The kids did not have much interest in the game. The park must know that so they had other forms of entertainment every couple innings.

Such as this race between a taquito, egg roll and hot dog(not pictured). Our section won a coupon for a free donut at QT because the taquito won the race.

Then there was the Sumo match between two lucky audience members.

And dancing on the dugout with the Mascots.

After the game we got to pitch a tent in the outfield. We watched a movie on a big screen in the bleachers and then got some much needed rest....NOT!

I think Gabby was more off the air mattress then on it.

Josie also fell between the cracks.

But me and Audi where pretty well off as the mattress goes. I was so tired when we got home that I took a two hour nap.

LOST BIRD, PLEASE HELP!

2009-06-19T06:49:00.001-05:00

We have lost our beloved Mr. Nibbles. If you see him flying outside your window, please let me know. Or better yet, trap the little bugger. The kids are beside themselves with grief. They are crying and wailing and asking "when can we get a new pet? something other than a bird". We keep hearing him in the back yard, but he won't come down. I am hopeful that he will get hungry and want to come inside to the comfort of his birdie condo with deluxe heater and all the millet he can eat.

Clear Frog

2009-06-17T22:35:00.001-05:00

How cool is this? A see through frog. This could saved the lives of millions of frogs that are dissected each year. Just think of the possibilities!

Gymnastics Program

2009-06-11T21:40:00.000-05:00

My two gold medalists. Gabby & Josie

Gabby receiving her medal.

Josie receiving her medal.

Josie and Gabby during warm-up.

The girls performed on each apparatus: volt, bars, beam & floor. They both did a great job. I am so proud.

Audi has been taking a painting class this week and loving it. She is learning about shading, colors, and paint application. Summer school started on Thursday. There is already a field trip planned for Monday to the St. Louis Zoo. They are going to have so much fun. But the bus was a little late dropping them off at home. I was pretty freaked when I arrived home at 5:10 and the girls still weren't home. I called the school and was going to call the bus depot when they finally arrived at 5:25. The bus driver said they shouldn't be that late normally. I guess they had some scheduling glitches to work out the first day.

The waters great...jump on in!

2009-06-07T11:45:00.000-05:00

The girls have been spending as much time as possible in the pool. Whether the weather is hot or cold. They don't seem to care. They have re-acquired their swim skills from last year. And showing little fear at trying new things. Juan hasn't really been in yet because I am not getting into that cold water and he can't get in by himself. The water is too deep.

Juan has had to find other things to do besides swim so he has been fixing things around the house.

I don't know how Josie and Gabby sleep this way.

When not swimming the girls find other ways to amuse themselves.

Juan doesn't just do repairs. We have a big lawn to mow also.

Gabby

Juan watches his father too much. He is strapping items into the back of his truck. SCARY!

Audi doing a CANNON BALL!

This is a side of Gabby we are not use to seeing.

Return of "Josie the Amazing Fish Girl".

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-28T20:11:00.000-05:00

I am a little late to post because we had a heck of a busy weekend. Friday the girls went to a birthday slumber party and me and Juan went to play with our friends Joy and Jon Jon. Me and Joy and Joy's friend Patty knitted while the kids tore up the playroom. Saturday me and Chino went to breakfast with Juan at our favorite place to eat, Waffle House. Then we rented a tiller and Chino tilled some spots in the yard while I went shopping. I finally went to get the girls around 12:30 (sorry Cammie). Then my parents came over for BBQ and my dad and Chino worked on leveling ground to set up the pool. Sunday Dad came back and he and Chino finished the pool set up and finally on Monday, the girls got to swim. Boy was it COLD. Not that they noticed. That is my weekend in a nut shell.

Juan, Gabby and Audi

Since the girls could not swim on Saturday, they settled for the sprinkler.

Gabby got water in her ear doing a cartwheel through the spraying water. And no she is not naked. Her suit is a light orange (a little too similar to her skin).

Noodle fight!

Dad and Chino hard at work.

Gabby on the swing.

Juan feeding Grammy.

Josie wearing Papi's boots.

Juan wearing Papi's boots.

Audi

Gabby

The completed pool.

Juan ready to swim.

The Orca is the newest member of the family. Audi is afraid of him.

The floaty fun continued in-doors.

Too many cute pictures of Juany.

See what I mean!?

More on Mother's Day

2009-05-10T21:16:00.000-05:00

Here the kids pose with the flowers for Grammy. Josie is so pleased to be here.

Audi and Josie made me these pots in Girl Scouts. Good mother's day gift if I do say so myself.

This is the newest addition to our front porch. I told him to get rid of it!

PaPa filled water cans for the kids to muddy (water) the grass.

The girls tracked up the hill at my parents and then ran down. It was a lot of fun until Gabby wiped out at the bottom scraping her hand and knee on the rocks.

After a morning of cleaning I decided to take the kids out to lunch and then stop by my mothers to drop off her gift. Before I could leave Chino called and said he was on his way home and would be off the rest of the day. So he came home and brought me my gift. A back yard swing. Just what I wanted. (Some assembly required, not what I wanted) Then we ALL went to take mom and dad out to eat. We had a nice lunch and me and mom got mini cheese cakes from the restaurant free of charge just for being mothers! I know you are jealous. We went back to Mom's and the kids played. They watered everything, grass, weeds, rocks. We came home and I put the kids to bed and Chino went out to a dance. Because that is what married men with four children should do with their spare time. Right???

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T11:16:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not I got my Saturday. I thought option (A) was going to occur, but I got my day in spite of Chino's aggravation toward me. He took the kids for a hair cut and later to the mall. I did have to clean up the kitchen after he made the children breakfast. The girls gave me breakfast in bed. Cold eggs and toast, it was delicious. And then I had to watch the kids for about 2 hours while Chino mowed and trimmed the lawn. Other than that I was in bed watching TV and knitting. The house was not too much of a disaster.

Today, the real Mother's Day, I have mopped the kitchen floor, done two loads of laundry, cleaned 2 bathrooms and picked up wrappers and toys. I did get the girls to pick up their room. Oh, and I had to assemble some kinda tractor with trailer for Juan. My thumbs still hurt. But it is 11:30 a.m. now and I hope for some more peace. Just as soon as I finish changing my sheets. Two kids slept with me last night and one had an unexpected accident.

Happy Mother's Day to me and to the rest of you mothers out there!

It is Mother's Day again...oh yippy

2009-05-07T19:49:00.000-05:00

Do you hear the excitement in my voice? Then you are hearing things. Please read below my post from last year about Mother's Day.

I propose that Mother's Day be abolished. Me and Joy were talking and decided that Mother's Day would not be any worse than any other day if we weren't expecting it to be different, better. Joy's husband went out a half hour before stores closed on Saturday night and got her a $50 gift certificate. Joy was disappointed because so little thought was put into her gift. He claims he was busy because he had to travel one day this week. He was off the plane at 8:30 p.m. Friday and went out to party with friends 'til 1:30 am. He is off every Tuesday. So I can see why he could not find any time to shop for a thoughtful gift.
My husband works on Mother's Day. You see, other people take their mothers out to eat on Mother's Day. So he has to work. He did come home for an hour or two and bring me some food. Then he took a nap before returning to work. I was home with the four unruly children all day. I stayed in my room most of the day knitting. I have payed heavily for that time. Every time I left my room I had some major disaster to clean up. Juan managed to spill bubbles, soda, and water on the floor. He also ground cookie into the kitchen floor and tore up tortilla in the living room. The girls made their share of messes also. Papers all over the living room. Snack wrappers on the floor. Syrup on the table. Juan smeared syrup all over his face and into his hair while I loaded the dish washer. The scariest part of the entire day is that this was not my worst Mother's Day. My first Mother's Day I was left home alone with three three week old babies and could barely get up and down from a painful C-section. So, I think I will skip Mother's Day next year.

So here we are again, another Mother's Day, again with expectation. Since Chino has to work I asked if I could have Saturday to myself. I told him I want to spend the day in my room knitting and watching TV BY MYSELF. He said he would take care of the children and take them out for a hair cut and stuff......IF.......nothing comes up. So I am taking a poll.

When will something come up? The choices are:

A - Chino will pick a fight to get out of taking care of his children and be gone all day but come home like nothing happened.

B - Chino will watch the children for an hour and then get an all too important phone call and have to leave.

C - Chino will watch the children until around noon before he gets his OUT.

D - Chino will watch the children until late afternoon and then unexpectedly have to go to work leaving me with a mess and four children hipped up on sugar.

Please vote within the comments and feel free to leave you own option also.

A word of warning.

2009-05-04T18:46:00.000-05:00

So we had this slumber party with 10 seven year old girls. Two of the girls approached me and asked permission to tell a story about a little boy in their grade who recently lost his mother. I though that would be okay, give the girls a chance to think about someone in a sad situation. WRONG! This is the story they told.

The boy, we will call him Johnny, (son of John and Jane Doe) was riding in the car with his mother (driving) and father and grandmother. The dad stabbed the mom in the neck and blood squirt everywhere, the car wrecked and mom died. Grandma moved away with Johnny.

This is not what I was expecting to hear and do not know if there is any truth to to this story. Next time I will have the kids tell me the story before I allow them to tell a group of peers. I suggest you do the same.

Triple the Birthday fun!

2009-05-04T18:32:00.000-05:00

We had a birthday bash at our house this weekend. The girls turned 7 on April 30. Saturday we had a slumber party. It was a blast, declared by all who attended as the best slumber party ever. (At least until the next one they attend) We had the Wii in the living room, movies and a little trampoline in the back room, junk food every where and make-up and nail polish. But I think they liked playing outside more than anything else. I ordered pizza and made an ice cream cake. (mud) We gave out goody bags and a little puppy for everyone. It was a puppy party after all.

Thomas and Friends

2009-04-27T06:15:00.000-05:00

Me and Joy took the boys to see Thomas on stage Sunday. Jonathan and Juan had a great time!

Jon Jon and Juan

Our seats were on the floor 6th row.

The props were great.

Thomas really had steam coming from his stack! And Thomas talked. Of course, the boys wanted to ride the train.

Friday night scare.

2009-04-25T23:09:00.000-05:00

So I go to bed around midnight on Friday night. I'm getting all cosy in my blanket and I hear a helicopter outside. It is close and seems to be circling my neighborhood. After 5 minutes it fades away, finally. So I'm thinking escaped convict, right? Then, I hear a noise outside, like someone messing with the basement window. I bravely open my blinds to the window directly above the noise and bang on the window. I watch, but nobody runs off. Then I hear noise in the basement. I'm really freaked out. I grab the phone and run to the kitchen to lock the door at the top of the stairs. It wouldn't stop a thief from getting it open but it would buy me some time and create a noisy approach for the thief. I am about to call the police but decide to give Chino a quick call to see if he is close to home. He answers the phone and I ask in a panicked voice "Where are you?". He replies "in the basement". My response "You asshole, I was about to call the police!" CLICK.

I asked Chino why he broke into the house and scared the hell out of me. He said his key did not work and accused me of changing the lock. (this is logical) I asked him why he didn't call me. He said he didn't want to wake me up. It is always better to scare someone to death than to risk waking them. He is lucky he did not spend the night in jail. I should have called the police anyway and had him locked up for stupidity!

My theory is that all men on this planet share one brain. I want to know whose husband had the brain on Friday because mine really needed it!

Up close and personal

2009-04-25T22:56:00.000-05:00

Chino and Gabby

Audi eating popcorn

Chino and Juan chilling out to iPod tunes.

One cool dude.

Brydie and Mr. Nibbles checking out Facebook.

We use teamwork in our house to reach high things.

Juan and his trains.

Do you notice that there are not pictures of Josie here? She is a little less inclined to pose for the camera then her siblings. You will also notice that there is few photogenic proofs of my own existence. It is not just because I am the one behind the lens. Like mother, like daughter. One of them had to be like me.

My little Butterfly

2009-04-25T22:46:00.000-05:00

Josie in costume.

Gathering of many "bugs".

I love the "bug eye" affect. How did they do that?

Gabby and Josie play-fighting after the show before we went to Dairy Queen.

The demands of children.

2009-04-18T15:10:00.000-05:00

Me and Joy were doing our usual Friday night McDonald play date and although it is hard to believe, NOBODY THREW UP! I have contacted Guinness Book, we are a shoe in. But while there my girls had Carly writing notes to me requesting various items. Here are a few examples:

Josie: Dear Mom, I want a flat screen TV and a Wii. I love you.

Gabby: Dear Mom, I want a flat screen TV, $1000, and a hot tub. I love you.

Audi: Dear Mom, I want a giant ducky. I love you.

Josie's makes a little sense and one of the items will be checked off her list on their birthday.
My response to Gabby was "Ya, I want a hot tub too".
And Audi, "Where the hell do I find a giant duck?".

I did once dream about a giant duck or bird of some kind. Me and the kids and my mother were visiting a museum. There was a giant bird creature on display. It took a liking to our family and broke out of it's cage to follow us. It followed us right out the door and ran behind my SUV until it was able to ketch up and ride on the roof. I turned around to take it back to the museum. We planned to purchase it and take it home for a pet. Weird huh!? So if that dream comes true then Audi will have her giant ducky.

Pyramids

2009-04-17T22:45:00.000-05:00

Gabby looks a little bored.

Juany is happy to be included.

Gabby is not holding onto the ceiling. I couldn't fit the entire scene into the picture.

My kids are always up to something. Usually something that could lead to an emergency room visit. But they seem to have fun and I have insurance.

EASTER!

2009-04-13T20:17:00.001-05:00

Ready... Set...GO! The egg hunt is on. There are 275 plastic eggs filled with money and candy out in the yard to be found.

Juan found 13 eggs. That is a far cry from Josie's 43. Juan was a little slow. He would see an egg (that I pointed out to him) but someone would get to it before he could. (namely Audi who followed Juan and me to pounce when I tried to show Juan where the eggs were)

Josie

Audi

Gabby

Juan has a way with the young ladies.

Dawn and Robert with Olivia and Henry

The kids were on the look out for pirates.

Juan and the girls: Corrine, Gabby, Josie, Emilee, Lauren and Olivia

Gabby and Juan sharing a wagon ride. Look how happy Juan is to share.

More birthday pictures.

2009-04-11T09:18:00.000-05:00

We had no planned games or prizes but the kids still cried when it was time to leave. I guess I am a hell of a hostest!

The train table was a hit for the younger kids. I don't think Jonathan ever went outside to play. He sat for at least an hour watching as my dad assembled the table and track. He sat in a chair very quiet so he would not disturb Pa Pa.

Adult guest and Chino at the grill.

I wish the day could have been warmer and less windy. The kids did not get to roast their own hot dogs as I had planned. It was just too windy to put a fire in the pit.

PRESENTS!

This is Henry. Dawn and Robert's baby and Olivia's little brother. He is sooo cute. I love bald babies!

This is our the other baby guest. Dominic is China and Efrain's son and little brother to Elvira. He is huge. It hurt my back to hold him to long. But he is a good baby. He will go to anyone!

Pinata fun

2009-04-11T08:54:00.000-05:00

Every kid has a different style when hitting a pinata. Some tap and some whack. But all have fun. You have to let the little kids go first because if the biggest kid goes first then the whole thing is over in about 3 minutes. Unfortunately when you have 20 kids at a party, you only get one turn or none. As was the case at our party.

Audi went for the one handed swing. She picked up an appendage that was knocked off the pinata and did not want to put it down in fear that someone else would steal her prize. They like to wear these cone shaped pieces as hats.

Some of the smallest kids require assistance from Mom. I think this was Jonathan's first pinata. He will do better next time.

Fabby is too adorable to be much threat to a pinata.

Josie was so quick that the only pictures I got of her are blurred.

Gabby could take flight with this leap!

Olivia is getting good at whacking the pinata.

Then comes the strong big boys. Mario had to be stopped in his attempt to demolish the pinata so that others could possible get a turn.

Brianna barely got a turn in and then Bianca got the pinata to spill it's guts. Bianca was so quick that I didn't even get a picture and her poor brother did not get a turn at all.

What a CAKE!

2009-04-05T09:25:00.000-05:00

Juan's birthday cake was created by Kym Grannemann. You can visit her website at www.kymsconfections.com.

Happy Birthday to Juan!

2009-04-05T08:55:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Juan's birthday on Saturday. The theme was Thomas the train. Here is a picture of Juan with his cake.

The kids played with Juan's train table. This was his present from me and Chino. My dad assembled it for Juan. It took about 3 hours!

Here is Mario relaxing and eating chips.

The kids played and had a good time.

Juan loves his train table! Thank you Papa for your hard labor.

Juan was excited about the pinata.

Logan taking his turn at the pinata.

Gabby holding Dominic.

Elvira was tired out by the end of the party.

Ride-um-cowboy

2009-04-01T20:51:00.000-05:00

This is my parents dog Cisco. Chino and I gave him to my mother as a birthday gift 10+ years ago. He became Dad's little buddy. Cisco is a mean little demon. The kids call him "mean wo wo". A "wo wo" is what the kids called dogs when they were little. This stupid little dog will bite your toes when you walk across the floor and barks and growls at you. The kids are scared to death of him.
I find it quite enjoyable to see him humiliated like this.

Trip to Springfield, IL

2009-03-21T21:36:00.001-05:00

We went to see the Lincoln house. It was a very nice day. After our tour we went to the Tomb. We learned a lot about the Lincoln family and the times they lived in.

Audi, Carly, Gabby and Josie waiting patiently for our tour to begin.

McDonald lunch after the tour.

The nose of this bust has become discolored because people think it is good luck to touch it. Joy held up each of the kids to touch the nose and she jumped up to slap it herself. I could not reach and could not convince anyone to lift me.

Carly in front of President Lincoln's grave stone. He is buried 10 feet below encased in concrete. They want to make sure nobody steals his body, again.

The best part of the trip for the kids was swimming in the pool at the hotel. This is Audi.

Gabby floating on her back.

Carly teaching Josie to float.

On day two we went to the museum. The girls pose with life size wax figures of the Lincoln family.

The museum was split into three sections. This was the entrance to the area that held artifacts from Lincoln's early adulthood.

This entrance starts the tours of artifacts from the Lincoln's time in the White House.

We saw a cool movie teaching the importance of studying artifacts and the lives and times of people from the past. It included ghostly images. Audi got kinda scared.

These wax figures stood outside the entrance to the White House section. They were very life like.

They also had a kids room with toys similar to those played with during the time of Lincoln's children and this doll house replica of the Lincoln home in Springfield.

The girls dressed up in clothing of the time. (Sorta, we couldn't find a hoop to try on them.)

Josie posing and almost smiling.

There was a dress-up area, a table with toys and slates, a kitchen area and, of course, Lincoln logs.

The kids had a great mini vacation and I think they learned a little bit. They were spoiled with toys and candy and ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery.

This may explain my children's behavior last week.

2009-03-17T21:49:00.000-05:00

It was much more beautiful in person.

Bonfire at our house

2009-03-11T20:03:00.000-05:00

kids on swings

Rosita and China with baby Dominic

Jose driving the gator

Gabby doing flips

gathered around the fire pit

Audi, Josie and Gabby

Chino with his nephew

How many kids will fit in a gator?

Elvira and Juan, aren't they cute!

The kids loved playing outside in the dark. Elvira wondered off once when nobody was looking, but we found her. There were so many kids it was hard to keep track. I had planned on a simple hot dog roast with our children. Then my parents were invited. Then Mario and his family and then Chino's sister. It was a great time. My kids were so filthy at the end of the night. We have to do this again.

Our Soccer Team

2009-03-11T19:53:00.000-05:00

We don't know how to play, but we sure look GOOD! I found these cute outfits at Walmart and they had one in each of the girl's favorite colors. What luck.

Josie

Audi

Gabby

This is what you have missed.

2009-03-11T19:34:00.000-05:00

While delivering Girl Scout cookies me and Audi went to our neighbor's house. They have a dog. Audi must have touched the dog and then her eye. The entire side of her face was swollen, her eye almost swollen shut. A little Benedryl and a breathing treatment and she was good as new!

Juan likes to sleep on the floor among junk.

Tic-tac-toe three in a row. Josie, Audi and Gabby

I'm not sure if that little bed can hold the weight of four children. Juan never sleeps in it anyway.

This is Juan's tail. One morning I was busy in the kitchen making lunches for the girls to take to school. Juan came into the kitchen fully dressed. He had dressed himself but was having trouble pulling up his pants. His full morning diaper was getting caught in the back and looked like a little tail. So being the kind hearted mother that I am I went for my camera and laughed at his tail. Then I changed his diaper.

The Victory Games

2009-02-22T18:53:00.000-06:00

Josie was so proud of herself for getting a medal at the Victory Games. She also got two ribbons. On the way home she asked me if she had to share her medal with her sisters, I told her that she earned the medal and it was all hers.

This is a perfect beautiful handstand. Josie is doing very well.

Poor Gabby was so jealous of Josie's medal. Her class did not participate in the Victory Games because she is on a team. The only problem is her class is pre-competition and she will not compete until she advances higher.

Friday Nite Fun

2009-02-21T08:34:00.000-06:00

We have a general rule on Friday night, "We leave McDonald's when someone throws up". We go to McDonald's almost every Friday night. Joy and I knit while the children play. We can spend hours up there. But sometimes we only spend minutes. One of my children is bound to throw up while there. We spent a long time there and things were looking good. Gabby had a little trouble early on but got past it. So I decided to indulge in a cherry pie. I gave Jonathan a bite and then Juan. Juan immediately threw up, a lot. Time to go!

But the fun continued at home. Gabby and Josie were posing in their matching leotards. Juan wanted in on the act.

Here is a rare sight. A picture of me. I am always the one behind the camera. On this night my sister took this picture because I have NO pictures of my children and me together.

The Strong Willed Child(s)

2009-02-21T08:03:00.000-06:00

This little guy looks very sweet, and he can be. BUT not on Friday at daycare. Chino dropped him off that day, and that doesn't usually go as smoothly as when I drop him off. You see, when he leaves the house with Papi he could be going somewhere good or he could be going to school. He never knows until he gets there. So on this morning he went to school. Juan was not happy. He was difficult for the teachers so the director had to step in. He didn't want a diaper change, but he needed one. So Ms. Judy got him changed. Then had to take him to her office because he was having such a fit. While in her office he decided to test the waters. Juan removed his shoes, pants AND diaper. Out of options a call was made to Mom. Ms. Judy put Juan on the phone with me. I told him that he loved his teacher Ms. Kasey and he should go play with her and that I would be there in a little bit to pick him up and take him to McDonald's for dinner. Then I said, "We've talked about this, you know that you are suppose to keep your "doodle" covered. Now go put your diaper on". He immediately went to get his diaper and allowed Ms. Judy to put it on him. He was fine the rest of the day. When I picked him up he reminded me that there would be McDonald's for dinner. I thought my strong words of encouragement made him behave, NOT it was the strong pull of chicken nuggets and a play land.

And then there is Audi. She is pretty cute and can be VERY sweet. But she did not have a good week at school. We all remember that last week Audi received a yellow slip from the principal for the "mooning" incident. Well this week she got two, count them ONE TWO yellow slips from the principal. Apparently she got upset at a little girl at school and threatened her in the bathroom. She received the first yellow slip. As punishment she had to spend half of Friday with her special education teacher instead of being in her classroom. This is an inschool suspension. Audi did not show up to school in a good mood. She was upset so she started throwing things, little blocks (at the teacher), crayons (at the teacher), a chair (at the teacher) and a desk (again, at the teacher). Then she threatened the teacher. She then received her second yellow slip. Needless to say, she will not return to her classroom on Monday. She will stay in inschool suspension until she is behaved enough to return to class with other students.

At home she is grounded. She did not get to go to McDonald's for dinner, she can't use the computer or watch TV. None of this will help but what else can I do?

Gymnast Josie

2009-02-19T20:48:00.000-06:00

Here are a few shots from Josie's gymnastics class. She is improving well. She almost has her cartwheel and is working really hard on her hand stand. This weekend she will be in her first practice meet. They will do a short routine and get ribbons and medals for participation.

Josie looks forward to class every week. Tonight she asked me if I would be proud of her even if she does not win a medal on Sunday. I was a little surprised at the comment but I told her "of course, I am always proud of you".

The little gymnast

2009-02-16T20:20:00.000-06:00

Gabby is doing well in gymnastics.

OUCH!

WOW!

Careful!

Gabby was able to do this flip on her own that day and got to "ring the bell". Every time a bell rings a gymnast learns a skill. The previous week Gabby got to ring the bell for doing a back bend, from a standing position. I was so shocked and proud that I cried. I'm a little emotional.

The Pimple...and much more.

2009-02-16T19:53:00.000-06:00

See the little tiny spot on Gabby's forehead? That is her first pimple. I'm so proud. When I took the pictures Gabby said "you're not going to put that on the web, are you?".

Gabby and Audi were in the First Grade Musical and they did a great job. I was a little worried because the day before the big night while practicing on the stage in the gym, Audi decided to "moon" a classmate because she thought it would be funny. She went to the principal and was written up. Needless to say we were all a little concerned with what may happen on the night of the performance. At some point during the show my mother said in a worried voice, "where's Audi" then I heard a scream as I searched the stage for her with my eyes. I ran to the front of the gym followed by the principal. We discovered that the scream was not from Audi but from a young child in the audience. We found Audi's teacher walking down the hall with her. Apparently she needed to use the bathroom and could not wait until after the show concluded. After the show we went to DQ for ice cream and ran into Audi's best friend Davian and a couple other students.

Here the children are pretending to be dogs. Juan is howling.

He couldn't be cuter if he tried!

We spotted this hawk in our tree the other day. It flew away when the kids came running. I think he came to visit Mr. Nibbles.

I forgot to mention....

2009-02-05T22:05:00.000-06:00

Today I had Chino bring Audi to me at my work so I could take her to a doctor appointment. I told Audi and Josie that they could get ready for gymnastics when they got home from school because I knew my time would be limited when I got done with the appointment and then raced home for 6:00 gymnastics. So hubby brings Audi to me dressed in her leotard and pants, no problem. She had no coat and was wearing flip flops, problem. Josie was only wearing her leotard with no clothes over it and also was without a coat. WHAT THE HELL! It was a little warmer today, around 40 degrees, but it is not exactly swim suit weather!

I called him to complain about his lack of observation and I got a lecture on how hard it is to get out the door with four children. Gee, I have no idea what that is like. What is missing in a man's brain? Are they stupid or lazy or just concerned about themselves? He managed to have a coat and proper shoes on himself. I don't GET it!

Comments ladies?

Random pictures

2009-02-05T21:21:00.000-06:00

I went back to my old storage files and pulled out some random pictures. We have been up to a lot lately but I have been too busy to think of bringing a camera. I am expecting a friend to email some soon from a girl scout event, but until them, enjoy these old pics.

Josie

Gabby, Audi, Josie

Audi

Chino and Juan

I started the girls in gymnastics. We went for a trial class last Thursday and Audi complained the entire time and ended up leaving the class, Josie loved it and Gabby was tested immediately after the class to be moved into an advanced class. Well, advanced for her age group. Gabby was put in a pre-competition class that meets twice a week. I am so proud. Josie and Audi went back tonight for their second class and Audi again complained and left class, so I did not sign her up but Josie still loves it. Audi tried a ballet class on Monday but she found tap to be "weird" and she did not like the idea of all the kids in her class having the same costume for recital. She felt hers should be different and definitely pink, not purple. So we won't be doing that one either.

Next week Audi and Gabby are in the First Grade Musical (not to be confused with High School Musical). I can't wait to see them sing! Josie will have to sit with me in the audience and complain about how bored she is. Her class did not participate in this one but will probably do something later this year (I assume).

That's a quick update. I'll be back soon.

The little things.....

2009-01-24T22:34:00.000-06:00

Illness has been running wild in our house. Juan has a double ear infection and cough. Gabby and Audi are coughing up lungs. Josie is faking it to come home early, and I have had the stomach flu and a cough that sounds like I am dieing. (ask the people I work with, they have been chasing me with Lysol) I can't wait until we are all feeling better.

Here are a few cute pictures of Juan sleeping.

Juan has moved into my bed and made himself right at home.

Juan has finally agreed to wear his Halloween costume. He wants it daily now!

Per Gabby: Juany sleeps like a lazy baby.

The girls have gotten into cheering lately. They attended a cheer clinic at the high school on Saturday and get to perform at a game on Monday night.

We like to go to kids night at Burger King and have pictures drawn on us by a talented artist. Plus we get 99 cent kids meals.

The growth of a tail

2009-01-08T21:14:00.000-06:00

We all remember the tailless bird. Well guess what, it grew back.

Here you see the stubby little feathers starting.

The tail is getting longer and fuller.

The tail is complete. I think. Looks like I need to clean the cage!

I am surprised how fast the tail grew

What is wrong with this picture?

2009-01-06T20:29:00.000-06:00

And this one?

I don't know if you noticed but my son is wearing pink pants. When I picked him up from daycare this is what he was wearing. Apparently I did not keep a good stock of clothes in his cubby so they supplied what they had that would fit him. Okay, I can deal with it. Then I asked for his coat. I was handed a bag with a wet coat and pants in it. It seems that Juan was not in a very good mood when I dropped him off this morning, so he kept his coat. Then he went to the bathroom and managed to pee on his pants and coat. Not sure how. I think we need to work on aim. Like father like son.

a few pics

2009-01-04T22:03:00.000-06:00

Juan sleeping

Audi and Elvira watching TV

Gabby holding Dominic (China's new baby)

Thank you Aunt Lisa for the make-up kit.

Hoosier cooler

Juan's Treasure

2009-01-04T21:45:00.000-06:00

Juan likes to hide things in my bathroom cabinet. He wanted to make sure his stuff was good and safe so he put hair rubber bands on the handles so the doors could not be opened. 20 rubber bands to be exact.

So, you are probably wondering what was so important to keep safe. See for yourself.

He got real upset when I took off the rubber bands to retrieve my hair dryer. So he took the "guard dog" approach and watched the stuff himself.

We wish you a Merry Christmas

2008-12-26T15:16:00.001-06:00

Christmas morning is such a blast at our house. The kids are so excited to see if Santa came. I guess they have a little doubt since they are not the best behaved. The paper gets ripped and me and Chino spend the morning cutting toys from boxes. It is such a pain to get those toys out of the boxes. Every appendage is held down with twist ties. Then you have to find where the batteries go and hope you bought the correct ones. But it is all worth it just to see your child's happy face when they get what they wanted.

Josie no longer lives with us. We now support Hannah Montana instead. Now if only she would smile!